usatoday--2020-12-16--President-elect Joe Biden wants to put Pete Buttigieg in charge of Transportation Department

President-elect Joe Biden has chosen former South Bend , Indiana , Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be his transportation secretary , praising his former rival 's record of `` trailblazing , forward-thinking executive leadership . ''
Biden said in a statement Tuesday that the Transportation Department is at the nexus of the interlocking challenges of jobs , infrastructure , equity and climate change that he has promised to address .
`` I trust Mayor Pete to lead this work with focus , decency , and a bold vision , '' Biden said .
`` He will bring people together to get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to appear with Biden Wednesday for a formal announcement .
On Twitter , he called the nomination a `` tremendous opportunity – to create jobs , meet the climate challenge , and enhance equity for all . ''
Buttigieg , who competed with Biden for the nomination before dropping out and endorsing him , would be the first openly gay Cabinet secretary if confirmed by the Senate .
“ Pete ’ s nomination is a new milestone in a decades-long effort to ensure LGBTQ people are represented throughout our government – and its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will lead , '' Annise Parker , head of the LGBTQ Victory Institute , said in a statement .
Parker said the appointment would fulfill one of the goals her group has for the new administration .
The Transportation Department will have a central role in shaping and carrying out Biden ’ s infrastructure plans .
The department distributes hundreds of billions of dollars in federal highway funding and regulates aviation , railroads and busing .
As part of his proposal to shift to clean energy , Biden has proposed placing 500,000 charging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to electric power .
Mona Mohib , a federal policy adviser with McGuireWoods Consulting who previously served as director of policy and communications at the Democratic Governors Association , warned that Biden ’ s transportation plans are aspirational because they depend on reversing President Donald Trump ’ s tax cut for corporations and individuals earning more than $ 400,000 per year .
“ As such , one should ultimately see this plan as a wish list , ” Mohib said .
To curb the spread of COVID-19 , Biden has said that on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ require passengers to wear masks on interstate transportation such as planes , trains and buses , a move the Trump administration rejected .
President-elect Biden seeks a diverse Cabinet : Here 's who will join his administration and who might be top contenders Buttigieg was once near the front of the pack for the Democratic nomination , edging out Sen. Bernie Sanders in the Iowa caucuses by a tiny margin .
He regularly polled ahead of sitting governors , senators and other long-established members of the Democratic Party .
The former South Bend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ openly gay man to win delegates in the race for the nomination of a major political party .
Buttigieg 's husband , Chasten , frequently appeared on the campaign trail to crowds of enthusiastic supporters .
Although Buttigieg may become the first openly gay person confirmed to a Cabinet position , Rick Grenell , who had served as both an ambassador and acting Director of National Intelligence for President Donald Trump , was the first appointed openly gay man to serve at a Cabinet-level position .
Grenell was not formally confirmed by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be 'hinge : Pete Buttigieg talks healing America in new book ` I wanted to write my real story ' : Chasten Buttigieg talks Biden , quarantine and new memoir When Buttigieg launched his presidential campaign , he spoke from the former Studebaker auto-manufacturing campus which had decades before been South Bend ’ s economic engine .
Buttigieg used the plant , which is being repurposed into a mixed-use technology campus , as an example of how it ’ s time to “ walk away from the politics of the past and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Biden , Buttigieg returned to the plant to address the Democratic National Convention .
`` I trust Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to guide us toward that better future , because I ’ ve seen up close , their empathy and their capacity , ” he said .
Buttigieg campaigned heavily for Biden while also supporting candidates further down the ballot through his political action committee .
`` There ’ s just no one out there who ’ s doing more to help Joe Biden , our ticket win , than Mayor Pete @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incoming chief-of-staff , told Indiana Democrats before the election .
Buttigieg was the nation ’ s youngest mayor of a city South Bend ’ s size or larger when he took office in 2012 .
He envisioned his hometown as a “ beta city , ” the perfect size to use his data-driven background with the consulting firm McKinsey to test big ideas .
That included the `` smart sewers '' that saved South Bend an estimated hundreds of millions of dollars and became a template for a product now sold to cities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , South Bend beat out more than 300 other cities for a Bloomberg Mayor ’ s challenge grant to expand a ride share service the city piloted .
In Biden 's announcement Tuesday , the transition praised Buttigieg 's “ Smart Streets ” initiative to revitalize the downtown with redesigned streets and new economic investments .
Leaders of the U.S. Conference of Mayors noted that Buttigieg had headed the group 's task force on automation to help cities deal with the effects of increased workforce automation .
`` His expertise , deep-seated curiosity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has on our communities proved to be invaluable to our work , just as it will in his new role , '' Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer , president of the conference , and executive director Tom Cochran said in a statement .
In 2016 , Buttigieg went to Europe with then Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx to learn about transportation innovations .
Buttigieg was among the mayors partnering with DOT to make biking and walking safer in cities .
Officials from private entities which chose South Bend – because of Buttigieg – as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he created a culture of innovation and was a “ wonderful talent attractor.
” Mark Muro , policy director of the Brookings Institution ’ s Metropolitan Policy Program , told USA TODAY last year that Buttigieg was not only “ at the forefront of younger , more data-oriented , tech-oriented mayors , ” but is also noteworthy for how he connects the technical to the human element and conveys big ideas .
Buttigieg , however , was criticized by some of his redevelopment efforts , including an aggressive effort to demolish or repair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black Lives Matter South Bend founder , said Tuesday Buttigieg `` would continue his record of hurting Black communities '' if he becomes transportation secretary .
Former Indiana Sen. Joe Donnelly , who is from South Bend , was among those who praised the selection .
He also took a dig at the Trump administration 's failure to produce a long-touted infrastructure deal .
`` It looks like we can finally have that Infrastructure week we 've heard about for the last four years ! ''
Donnelly tweeted .

Matthew Brown, Maureen Groppe and Bart Jansen, USA TODAY

President-elect Joe Biden wants to put Pete Buttigieg in charge of Transportation Department
Show Caption Hide Caption Pete Buttigieg to be Biden's pick for transportation secretary The Transportation Department will have a central role in shaping and carrying out Biden’s infrastructure plans. USA TODAY
President-elect Joe Biden has chosen former South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be his transportation secretary, praising his former rival's record of "trailblazing, forward-thinking executive leadership."
Biden said in a statement Tuesday that the Transportation Department is at the nexus of the interlocking challenges of jobs, infrastructure, equity and climate change that he has promised to address.
"I trust Mayor Pete to lead this work with focus, decency, and a bold vision," Biden said. "He will bring people together to get big things done.”
Buttigieg is scheduled to appear with Biden Wednesday for a formal announcement. On Twitter, he called the nomination a "tremendous opportunity – to create jobs, meet the climate challenge, and enhance equity for all."
Buttigieg, who competed with Biden for the nomination before dropping out and endorsing him, would be the first openly gay Cabinet secretary if confirmed by the Senate.
“Pete’s nomination is a new milestone in a decades-long effort to ensure LGBTQ people are represented throughout our government – and its impact will reverberate well-beyond the department he will lead," Annise Parker, head of the LGBTQ Victory Institute, said in a statement. Parker said the appointment would fulfill one of the goals her group has for the new administration.
The Transportation Department will have a central role in shaping and carrying out Biden’s infrastructure plans. The department distributes hundreds of billions of dollars in federal highway funding and regulates aviation, railroads and busing. As part of his proposal to shift to clean energy, Biden has proposed placing 500,000 charging stations along highways and changing federal vehicles to electric power.
Mona Mohib, a federal policy adviser with McGuireWoods Consulting who previously served as director of policy and communications at the Democratic Governors Association, warned that Biden’s transportation plans are aspirational because they depend on reversing President Donald Trump’s tax cut for corporations and individuals earning more than $400,000 per year.
“As such, one should ultimately see this plan as a wish list,” Mohib said.
To curb the spread of COVID-19, Biden has said that on his first day in office he will require passengers to wear masks on interstate transportation such as planes, trains and buses, a move the Trump administration rejected.
Buttigieg says 'the eyes of history' are on his Cabinet appointment The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana would be the first openly gay Cabinet secretary if confirmed by the Senate. Associated Press, USA TODAY
President-elect Biden seeks a diverse Cabinet: Here's who will join his administration and who might be top contenders
Buttigieg was once near the front of the pack for the Democratic nomination, edging out Sen. Bernie Sanders in the Iowa caucuses by a tiny margin. He regularly polled ahead of sitting governors, senators and other long-established members of the Democratic Party.
The former South Bend mayor also made history as the first openly gay man to win delegates in the race for the nomination of a major political party. Buttigieg's husband, Chasten, frequently appeared on the campaign trail to crowds of enthusiastic supporters.
Although Buttigieg may become the first openly gay person confirmed to a Cabinet position, Rick Grenell, who had served as both an ambassador and acting Director of National Intelligence for President Donald Trump, was the first appointed openly gay man to serve at a Cabinet-level position. Grenell was not formally confirmed by the Senate.
'Painful and dark' 2020 could be 'hinge: Pete Buttigieg talks healing America in new book
`I wanted to write my real story': Chasten Buttigieg talks Biden, quarantine and new memoir
When Buttigieg launched his presidential campaign, he spoke from the former Studebaker auto-manufacturing campus which had decades before been South Bend’s economic engine.
Buttigieg used the plant, which is being repurposed into a mixed-use technology campus, as an example of how it’s time to “walk away from the politics of the past and toward something totally different.”
After endorsing Biden, Buttigieg returned to the plant to address the Democratic National Convention.
"I trust Joe Biden and Kamala Harris to guide us toward that better future, because I’ve seen up close, their empathy and their capacity,” he said.
Buttigieg campaigned heavily for Biden while also supporting candidates further down the ballot through his political action committee.
"There’s just no one out there who’s doing more to help Joe Biden, our ticket win, than Mayor Pete," Ron Klain, Biden's incoming chief-of-staff, told Indiana Democrats before the election.
Buttigieg was the nation’s youngest mayor of a city South Bend’s size or larger when he took office in 2012. He envisioned his hometown as a “beta city,” the perfect size to use his data-driven background with the consulting firm McKinsey to test big ideas. That included the "smart sewers" that saved South Bend an estimated hundreds of millions of dollars and became a template for a product now sold to cities all over the world.
In 2018, South Bend beat out more than 300 other cities for a Bloomberg Mayor’s challenge grant to expand a ride share service the city piloted.
In Biden's announcement Tuesday, the transition praised Buttigieg's “Smart Streets” initiative to revitalize the downtown with redesigned streets and new economic investments.
Leaders of the U.S. Conference of Mayors noted that Buttigieg had headed the group's task force on automation to help cities deal with the effects of increased workforce automation.
"His expertise, deep-seated curiosity and understanding of the impact federal policy has on our communities proved to be invaluable to our work, just as it will in his new role," Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, president of the conference, and executive director Tom Cochran said in a statement.
In 2016, Buttigieg went to Europe with then Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx to learn about transportation innovations. Buttigieg was among the mayors partnering with DOT to make biking and walking safer in cities.
Officials from private entities which chose South Bend – because of Buttigieg – as a place to pilot new initiatives, said he created a culture of innovation and was a “wonderful talent attractor.”
Mark Muro, policy director of the Brookings Institution’s Metropolitan Policy Program, told USA TODAY last year that Buttigieg was not only “at the forefront of younger, more data-oriented, tech-oriented mayors,” but is also noteworthy for how he connects the technical to the human element and conveys big ideas.
Buttigieg, however, was criticized by some of his redevelopment efforts, including an aggressive effort to demolish or repair substandard housing.
Jorden Giger, a Black Lives Matter South Bend founder, said Tuesday Buttigieg "would continue his record of hurting Black communities" if he becomes transportation secretary.
Former Indiana Sen. Joe Donnelly, who is from South Bend, was among those who praised the selection. He also took a dig at the Trump administration's failure to produce a long-touted infrastructure deal.
"It looks like we can finally have that Infrastructure week we've heard about for the last four years!" Donnelly tweeted.


usatoday--2020-12-16--Joe Biden selects former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to lead Energy Department, reports say

WASHINGTON - President-elect Joe Biden will select former Michigan Gov .
Jennifer Granholm to be Secretary of Energy , according to multiple news reports .
Granholm , 61 , was attorney general of Michigan from 1999 to 2003 and the 47th Governor of Michigan from 2003 to 2011 .
She was the first woman to serve as Michigan 's governor , where she made clean energy development a hallmark of her administration .
With a budget of roughly $ 31 billion and a workforce of about 14,000 , the Department of Energy regulates the nation ’ s varied energy portfolio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ such as solar , and nuclear energy .
Granholm is experienced in dealing with the auto industry , which could come as an advantage to Biden ’ s administration , as he seeks to make clean energy a priority in his administration including efforts to increase fuel efficiency standards for cars and light trucks .
Much of the department 's focus involves development of cutting-edge fuel sources that could play an important role in Biden ’ s pledge to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions produced by coal , oil and gas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy efficiency of light bulbs and appliances , such as washers and dryers – everyday consumer items that collectively contribute to the carbon footprint that has added to the planet ’ s warming temperatures .
Since she left the governor 's mansion , Granholm has been involved in several initiatives focused on transforming the nation 's energy industry from one focused on fossil fuels to one expanding renewable sources , such as wind and solar .
She founded the American Jobs Project , a 30-state multi-university research project focused on advanced manufacturing jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ partner at the Washington law firm Bracewell LLP , which represents energy sector clients , said he was n't surprised by the choice of the former governor .
`` Granholm is well positioned to run DOE , '' he said .
`` She has been a leader in the clean energy transition back in Michigan , addressing some of the same key issues that will confront development and implementation of the Biden plan .
In addition , she learned power sector issues by working with some of the most sophisticated utilities in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Barack Obama ’ s shortlist to replace retiring Justice John Paul Stevens in 2010 .
She is the third woman to be selected to Biden ’ s cabinet , thus far .
Others include Janet Yellen for Treasury Secretary and Marcia Fudge for the Department of Housing and Urban Development .
POLITICO first reported the selection of Granholm .

Savannah Behrmann and Ledyard King, USA TODAY

Joe Biden selects former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to lead Energy Department, reports say
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
WASHINGTON - President-elect Joe Biden will select former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to be Secretary of Energy, according to multiple news reports.
Granholm, 61, was attorney general of Michigan from 1999 to 2003 and the 47th Governor of Michigan from 2003 to 2011. She was the first woman to serve as Michigan's governor, where she made clean energy development a hallmark of her administration.
With a budget of roughly $31 billion and a workforce of about 14,000, the Department of Energy regulates the nation’s varied energy portfolio, including fossil fuels and renewable sources such as solar, and nuclear energy.
Granholm is experienced in dealing with the auto industry, which could come as an advantage to Biden’s administration, as he seeks to make clean energy a priority in his administration including efforts to increase fuel efficiency standards for cars and light trucks.
Much of the department's focus involves development of cutting-edge fuel sources that could play an important role in Biden’s pledge to address climate change by reducing carbon emissions produced by coal, oil and gas.
The department also regulates the minimum energy efficiency of light bulbs and appliances, such as washers and dryers – everyday consumer items that collectively contribute to the carbon footprint that has added to the planet’s warming temperatures.
Since she left the governor's mansion, Granholm has been involved in several initiatives focused on transforming the nation's energy industry from one focused on fossil fuels to one expanding renewable sources, such as wind and solar.
She founded the American Jobs Project, a 30-state multi-university research project focused on advanced manufacturing jobs in clean energy.
Scott Segal, partner at the Washington law firm Bracewell LLP, which represents energy sector clients, said he wasn't surprised by the choice of the former governor.
"Granholm is well positioned to run DOE," he said. "She has been a leader in the clean energy transition back in Michigan, addressing some of the same key issues that will confront development and implementation of the Biden plan. In addition, she learned power sector issues by working with some of the most sophisticated utilities in the nation."
Granholm was also on President Barack Obama’s shortlist to replace retiring Justice John Paul Stevens in 2010.
She is the third woman to be selected to Biden’s cabinet, thus far. Others include Janet Yellen for Treasury Secretary and Marcia Fudge for the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
POLITICO first reported the selection of Granholm.


usatoday--2020-12-15--Opinion: Kelly Loeffler continues to embarrass the WNBA. When will the league stop her?

It 's not often the owner of a professional sports team takes a photo with a man who is a neo-Nazi and former leader of the Ku Klux Klan , but that 's exactly what Kelly Loeffler did .
The most important part of this story is not the photo itself , but what happens next .
This can be a story of the WNBA , where Loeffler is part owner of the Atlanta Dream , finally kicking Loeffler out of the league .
Or this can be a story of cowardice , and a story where a question needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does Loeffler , who is anti-Black Lives Matter in a Black Lives Matter city and league , have to humiliate the WNBA before the league takes action against her ?
In many ways the latest controversy with Loeffler is less about her and more about the WNBA .
Loeffler is what she is .
Like so many allies of President Donald Trump , she panders to extremists and white nationalists , despite owning a team in a league that 's heavily Black .
`` I adamantly oppose the Black Lives Matter political movement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of police , '' she said in a statement this past summer , `` called for the removal of Jesus from churches and the disruption of the nuclear family structure , harbored anti-Semitic views , and promoted violence and destruction across the country .
I believe it is totally misaligned with the values and goals of the WNBA and the Atlanta Dream , where we support tolerance and inclusion . ''
That is n't what BLM stands for and Loeffler knows that .
Just as Loeffler , who is a Republican candidate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she was doing when she filed a joint statement with Senate candidate David Perdue this week opposing the changing of the name of the Atlanta Braves .
This was in response to the New York Times reporting the Cleveland baseball team is eliminating the Indians nickname .
The problem with Loeffler 's statement is the Braves have never said they plan to change the name .
They 've said the opposite actually .
What Loeffler did with that statement is the same as me declaring I refuse to become an underwear model .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was n't a coincidence that she released that statement on the same day early in-person voting started in Georgia for the Jan. 5 runoffs .
Loeffler has made a series of cynical calculations , as algorithmic as the most basic of equations : Proximity to Trump + Cynicism = Power .
Loeffler is not the first to make these calculations ; many men and women in today 's politics have .
What makes what she 's doing especially pernicious is she 's using her players , her mostly Black team , as pawns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that her own players support her opponent , Raphael Warnock , once wearing shirts that read `` Vote Warnock . ''
Loeffler 's photo with white supremacist Chester Doles , who nearly beat a Black man to death in the 1990s and took part in that ugly rally in Charlottesville , Virginia , is the latest Loeffler act .
Loeffler said she had no idea who Doles was when she posed with him .
The Warnock campaign released a statement saying they did n't believe her .
`` While Kelly Loeffler runs a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she is once again trying to distance herself from someone who is a known white supremacist and former KKK leader who nearly beat a Black man to death , '' campaign spokesman Michael Brewer wrote .
`` There ’ s no acceptable explanation for it happening once , let alone a second time .
`` This is not the first time Loeffler has had to try to explain why Chester Doles , a longtime white supremacist who spent decades in the Ku Klux Klan and the neo-Nazi National Alliance and is associated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at her campaign events , '' the statement continued .
`` When Doles went to a GOP rally in September , Loeffler claimed she was 'unaware of Doles or the controversy over his attendance . '
Today , just weeks later , Loeffler ’ s campaign is again trying to use the same excuse that they 'had no idea who that was . '
'' The issue with Doles appearing at Loeffler 's rally is n't about if she knew who he was .
It 's that she attracts that type of person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Loeffler 's actions but for some reason no one seems to understand they are n't using them .
The league seems to be just hoping people ignore Loeffler .
The WNBA said in July it would n't force Loeffler out but that was before some of the latest incidents with her .
A league spokesman did not return an email asking for comment .
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in 2014 fined former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling $ 2.5 million and banned him for life after he was caught on tape making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vote Sterling out but he sold the team .
So all of this brings us back to that question and it 's the most important .
How many times does Loeffler , who is anti-Black Lives Matter in a Black Lives Matter city and league , have to humiliate the WNBA before the league takes action against her ?

Opinion: Kelly Loeffler continues to embarrass the WNBA. When will the league stop her?
Show Caption Hide Caption In Georgia, Loeffler again refuses to say Trump lost Georgia Sen. Kelly Loeffler repeatedly refused to acknowledge that President Donald Trump lost reelection in November, while calling her opponent, Rev. Raphael Warnock a socialist. The two debated on Sunday night. (Dec. 7) AP
It's not often the owner of a professional sports team takes a photo with a man who is a neo-Nazi and former leader of the Ku Klux Klan, but that's exactly what Kelly Loeffler did.
The most important part of this story is not the photo itself, but what happens next. This can be a story of the WNBA, where Loeffler is part owner of the Atlanta Dream, finally kicking Loeffler out of the league. Or this can be a story of cowardice, and a story where a question needs to be asked:
How many times does Loeffler, who is anti-Black Lives Matter in a Black Lives Matter city and league, have to humiliate the WNBA before the league takes action against her?
In many ways the latest controversy with Loeffler is less about her and more about the WNBA. Loeffler is what she is. Like so many allies of President Donald Trump, she panders to extremists and white nationalists, despite owning a team in a league that's heavily Black.
"I adamantly oppose the Black Lives Matter political movement, which has advocated for the defunding of police," she said in a statement this past summer, "called for the removal of Jesus from churches and the disruption of the nuclear family structure, harbored anti-Semitic views, and promoted violence and destruction across the country. I believe it is totally misaligned with the values and goals of the WNBA and the Atlanta Dream, where we support tolerance and inclusion."
That isn't what BLM stands for and Loeffler knows that. Just as Loeffler, who is a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate, knows exactly what she was doing when she filed a joint statement with Senate candidate David Perdue this week opposing the changing of the name of the Atlanta Braves. This was in response to the New York Times reporting the Cleveland baseball team is eliminating the Indians nickname.
The problem with Loeffler's statement is the Braves have never said they plan to change the name. They've said the opposite actually. What Loeffler did with that statement is the same as me declaring I refuse to become an underwear model. That wasn't happening anyway.
It wasn't a coincidence that she released that statement on the same day early in-person voting started in Georgia for the Jan. 5 runoffs.
Loeffler has made a series of cynical calculations, as algorithmic as the most basic of equations: Proximity to Trump + Cynicism = Power.
Loeffler is not the first to make these calculations; many men and women in today's politics have. What makes what she's doing especially pernicious is she's using her players, her mostly Black team, as pawns.
It's so bad with Loeffler that her own players support her opponent, Raphael Warnock, once wearing shirts that read "Vote Warnock."
Loeffler's photo with white supremacist Chester Doles, who nearly beat a Black man to death in the 1990s and took part in that ugly rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, is the latest Loeffler act. Loeffler said she had no idea who Doles was when she posed with him. The Warnock campaign released a statement saying they didn't believe her.
"While Kelly Loeffler runs a campaign based on dividing and misleading Georgians, she is once again trying to distance herself from someone who is a known white supremacist and former KKK leader who nearly beat a Black man to death," campaign spokesman Michael Brewer wrote. "There’s no acceptable explanation for it happening once, let alone a second time.
"This is not the first time Loeffler has had to try to explain why Chester Doles, a longtime white supremacist who spent decades in the Ku Klux Klan and the neo-Nazi National Alliance and is associated with a racist skinhead gang is appearing at her campaign events," the statement continued. "When Doles went to a GOP rally in September, Loeffler claimed she was 'unaware of Doles or the controversy over his attendance.' Today, just weeks later, Loeffler’s campaign is again trying to use the same excuse that they 'had no idea who that was.'"
The issue with Doles appearing at Loeffler's rally isn't about if she knew who he was.
It's that she attracts that type of person.
The WNBA has options to address Loeffler's actions but for some reason no one seems to understand they aren't using them. The league seems to be just hoping people ignore Loeffler.
The WNBA said in July it wouldn't force Loeffler out but that was before some of the latest incidents with her. A league spokesman did not return an email asking for comment.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in 2014 fined former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling $2.5 million and banned him for life after he was caught on tape making racist remarks. NBA owners were going to vote Sterling out but he sold the team.
So all of this brings us back to that question and it's the most important.
How many times does Loeffler, who is anti-Black Lives Matter in a Black Lives Matter city and league, have to humiliate the WNBA before the league takes action against her?
How many?


usatoday--2020-12-15--Recycling wrapping paper? What about gift bags? Here's what holiday packaging can go in blue bins.

'T is the season for gift giving .
And waste conservation .
If you 're surrounded by endless wrapping paper , festive bows and Christmas cards this holiday , it 's important to note proper recycling protocols — especially for paper products , the most recycled material in the U.S , according to the Environmental Protection Agency .
Heidi Brock , President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association , said a common mistake people make at the end of the year is `` Wishcycling . ''
`` The act of putting something in the recycling bin in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out what to do with it , actually impedes the recycling process , '' Brock said in a statement to USA TODAY .
`` Millions of Americans can also do their part during the holiday season by recycling paper-based products at home , '' she continued , urging communities to help educate consumers about local guidelines .
Not everything can go in those blue bins .
Glue , ribbons and glitter-dusted decorations can clog the recycling process .
Most nonpaper products need to be tossed or reused .
Each holiday gift wrap is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the year .
Unsure of what to do as you pack up this season 's festivities in a sustainable way ?
Have no fear — this list is for you .
Recycle ?
Reuse ?
Or trash ?
Here 's what you need to know .
When should you mail gifts for Christmas ?
Your shipping questions , answered Will gifts arrive in time for Christmas ?
: Target , Macy 's , other stores offering same-day delivery for holiday rush Plain wrapping paper can be recycled .
Sheets with foil , glitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Additional nonpaper embellishments should also be avoided .
Not sure if your gift wrap passes the test ?
Recycle Now suggests the `` scrunch test : '' if you scrunch your paper and it does n't spring back , chances are it can be recycled .
Try reusing wrapping paper that ca n't be recycled .
If Christmas morning causes damage beyond repair , trash it — and maybe consider sturdier gift bags to easily reuse in the future .
Gift bag recycling requirements are similar to wrapping paper .
Plain paper @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bin — but not bags made with plastic , foil or fabric according to Brock and the American Forest and Paper Association .
If a paper bag has rope handles , beads or other nonpaper decorative elements , remove them before recycling .
If your bags do n't fit recycling requirements , they will need to be trashed or reused .
Good news is , they are easy to preserve .
Ribbons and bows are not accepted at recycling bins .
The decorations can clog production at recycling plants .
To fix the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to shut down all the equipment so they can get in and cut out all the junk , ” Peter Spendelow , a materials management specialist for Oregon 's Department of Environmental Quality , previously told USA TODAY .
When ribbons and bows are too dead to reuse , trash them .
Otherwise , save them for next year — tape can be a perfect substitute adhesive .
According to the American Forest and Paper Association , cards and envelopes made of paper can be recycled .
But those with glitter , plastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the trash .
'Well ... THAT was CRAZY ! '
: COVID-themed holiday cards reflect dumpster fire that is 2020 Online orders are on the rise this year and cardboard boxes need to be recycled properly .
In short : do n't forget to flatten and remove nonpaper packing materials .
Paper peanuts and bubble wrap are not recyclable .
And unflattened boxes take up more room in recycling trucks — causing crews to make more trips .
`` This year many gifts will arrive to households in corrugated boxes , which are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
`` These recycled paper fibers can be used at least seven times to make new paper products .
We ask consumers to remove any nonpaper packing materials , break boxes down flat , keep them dry and clean and place them in the recycling bin . ''

Recycling wrapping paper? Gift bags? Here's what holiday packaging can go in blue bins
Show Caption Hide Caption Christmas and holiday gift wrapping tricks Have to wrap an oddly shaped present Here's a DIY-wrapping tutorial that can work for the weirdest-shaped gifts. ProblemSolved, USA TODAY
'Tis the season for gift giving. And waste.
If you're surrounded by endless wrapping paper, festive bows and Christmas cards this holiday, it's important to note proper recycling protocols – especially for paper products, the most recycled material in the U.S, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
"Millions of Americans can also do their part during the holiday season by recycling paper-based products at home," Heidi Brock, President and CEO of the American Forest & Paper Association, said in a statement to USA TODAY.
Brock added that a common mistake people make at the end of the year is "wishcycling."
"The act of putting something in the recycling bin in the hope that someone else will figure out what to do with it actually impedes the recycling process," she said, urging communities to help educate consumers about local guidelines.
Not everything can go in those blue bins. Glue, ribbons and glitter-dusted decorations can clog the recycling process. Most nonpaper products need to be tossed or reused.
Each holiday gift wrap is disposed of differently at the end of the year. Unsure of what to do as you pack up this season's festivities in a sustainable way?
Recycle? Reuse? Or trash? Here's what you need to know:
When should you mail gifts for Christmas? Your shipping questions, answered
Will gifts arrive in time for Christmas?: Target, Macy's, other stores offering same-day delivery for holiday rush
Wrapping paper
Brock said plain wrapping paper can be recycled. Sheets with foil, glitter and plastic or poly coatings cannot. Additional nonpaper embellishments should also be avoided.
According to Lisa Skumatz, National Recycling Coalition chairperson, wrapping paper should be separated from your regular curbside mix. It can be recycled with special programs for collection and drop-off in some cities.
Try reusing wrapping paper that can't be recycled. If Christmas morning causes damage beyond repair, trash it – and maybe consider sturdier gift bags to easily reuse in the future.
“We do discourage people from using wrapping paper because it is difficult to recycle and instead encourage people to either use reusable gift bags or other types of materials or use recyclable material like calendars, maps, etc," said Randy Moorman of Ecocycle, a recycling nonprofit in Colorado.
Gift bags
Gift bag recycling requirements are similar to wrapping paper. Plain paper bags can be put in the recycling bin – but not bags made with plastic, foil, or fabric according to Brock and the American Forest and Paper Association.
If a paper bag has rope handles, beads, or other nonpaper decorative elements, remove them before recycling.
If your bags don't fit recycling requirements, they will need to be trashed or reused. The good news is, they are easy to preserve.
Ribbons and bows
Ribbons and bows are not accepted at recycling bins. The decorations can clog production at recycling plants.
To fix the problem, "the facility then needs to shut down all the equipment so they can get in and cut out all the junk,” Peter Spendelow, a materials management specialist for Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality, previously told USA TODAY.
When ribbons and bows are too ugly to reuse, trash them. Otherwise, save them for next year – tape can be a perfect substitute adhesive.
Christmas cards
Don't forget to sort holiday cards.
According to the American Forest and Paper Association, cards and envelopes made of paper can be recycled. But those with glitter, plastic, or metallic accents should be tossed in the trash.
Most recycling processes will remove stamps.
More: Don't make these mistakes when addressing holiday cards
'Well... THAT was CRAZY!': COVID-themed holiday cards reflect dumpster fire that is 2020
Cardboard boxes
Online orders are on the rise this year and cardboard boxes need to be recycled properly.
In short: don't forget to flatten and remove nonpaper packing materials.
Packing peanuts and bubble wrap are not recyclable. And unflattened boxes take up more room in recycling trucks – causing crews to make more trips.
"This year many gifts will arrive to households in corrugated boxes, which are designed to be recycled," Brock said. "These recycled paper fibers can be used at least seven times to make new paper products. We ask consumers to remove any nonpaper packing materials, break boxes down flat, keep them dry and clean and place them in the recycling bin."
Contributing: Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY


usatoday--2020-12-15--Florida basketball player Keyontae Johnson in stable condition, breathing on his own, parents say

Florida men ’ s basketball forward Keyontae Johnson has been upgraded to stable condition , and he is now able to breathe on his own and speak , according to a statement released by UF but attributed to Johnson ’ s parents , Nika and Marrecus Johnson .
“ We feel so much love and support from everyone , and we ’ re beyond grateful for the care and attention that Keyontae has received throughout these past several days , ” the statement read .
“ We will continue to share updates about Keyontae ’ s health and progress .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and care for him.
” Earlier Monday , Johnson was moved from Tallahassee , Florida , to Gainesville by helicopter to University of Florida ’ s Shands Hospital , where he remained under evaluation .
Johnson , 21 , collapsed during the first half of Florida ’ s contest at Florida State and needed to be removed from the court on a stretcher .
He was unresponsive before being taken to Tallahassee Memorial hospital , where Johnson was placed in a medically induced coma , Johnson ’ s grandfather , Larry DeJarnett , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TODAY .
KEYONTAE JOHNSON:21-year-old is more than a basketball star '' They ’ re just not sure , '' DeJarnett told USA TODAY Sports .
`` He may have had activity in the brain , so they induced the coma .
They put him on medication to keep him sedated . ''
However , Johnson ’ s parents appeared to draw DeJarnett ’ s claims , and the claims of others , into question with Tuesday ’ s update .
“ We hope people recognize that information that doesn ’ t come from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be accurate , ” the statement continued .
“ We are working closely with Keyontae ’ s doctors and the UAA to provide information to everyone who cares so deeply about Keyontae and has been praying for him . ''
It 's unclear if Johnson 's condition is connected to COVID-19 , or if he had previously tested positive .
Florida had to pause team activities last month because of positive COVID-19 tests , and coach Mike White said the team also had previous issues , but details were not released because of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sports he did not know whether Johnson ever suffered from the virus .
`` I know that there was some of the times when some of the team was quarantined , yes , ” DeJarnett said .
“ I don ’ t know if he was one of them or not.
” Florida 's midweek contest with the University of North Florida has been canceled , UF confirmed Tuesday morning , in order for the program to focus on Johnson ’ s continued recovery .
A decision on whether or not to move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against Florida Atlantic is expected by Thursday , if not sooner , a source said , requesting anonymity due to the sensitive and fluid nature of the situation .
A makeup date with North Florida is to be determined , UF spokesman Denver Parler said .
`` Florida basketball and the UAA wish to thank UNF 's coaching staff , administration and team for their flexibility and willingness to make this schedule change , '' Parler said .
UF posted the following Monday night on its Twitter account : '' We , along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the outpouring of love & support for Keyontae as we continue to lift him up in collective thoughts & prayers .
For those that want to send letters or cards send to P.O .
Box 14485 , Gainesville , Fl.
, 32604 C/O UF administration . ''

Florida basketball player Keyontae Johnson in stable condition, breathing on his own, parents say
Show Caption Hide Caption Keyontae Johnson collapse 'one of the worst things I've seen' SportsPulse: Gainseville Sun reporter Graham Hall recounts the terrifying moment Florida basketball player Keyontae Johnson collapsed on the court and the current state of the Gators star. SportsPulse, USA TODAY
Florida men’s basketball forward Keyontae Johnson has been upgraded to stable condition, and he is now able to breathe on his own and speak, according to a statement released by UF but attributed to Johnson’s parents, Nika and Marrecus Johnson.
“We feel so much love and support from everyone, and we’re beyond grateful for the care and attention that Keyontae has received throughout these past several days,” the statement read. “We will continue to share updates about Keyontae’s health and progress. We have seen how much people love and care for him.”
Earlier Monday, Johnson was moved from Tallahassee, Florida, to Gainesville by helicopter to University of Florida’s Shands Hospital, where he remained under evaluation.
Johnson, 21, collapsed during the first half of Florida’s contest at Florida State and needed to be removed from the court on a stretcher. He was unresponsive before being taken to Tallahassee Memorial hospital, where Johnson was placed in a medically induced coma, Johnson’s grandfather, Larry DeJarnett, said in a phone call with USA TODAY.
FSU COACH DETAILS EMOTIONS: "Several guys were crying uncontrollably"
KEYONTAE JOHNSON: 21-year-old is more than a basketball star
"They’re just not sure," DeJarnett told USA TODAY Sports. "He may have had activity in the brain, so they induced the coma. They put him on medication to keep him sedated."
However, Johnson’s parents appeared to draw DeJarnett’s claims, and the claims of others, into question with Tuesday’s update.
“We hope people recognize that information that doesn’t come from us or the athletic department may not be accurate,” the statement continued. “We are working closely with Keyontae’s doctors and the UAA to provide information to everyone who cares so deeply about Keyontae and has been praying for him."
It's unclear if Johnson's condition is connected to COVID-19, or if he had previously tested positive. Florida had to pause team activities last month because of positive COVID-19 tests, and coach Mike White said the team also had previous issues, but details were not released because of privacy laws.
DeJarnett told USA TODAY Sports he did not know whether Johnson ever suffered from the virus.
"I know that there was some of the times when some of the team was quarantined, yes,” DeJarnett said. “I don’t know if he was one of them or not.”
Florida's midweek contest with the University of North Florida has been canceled, UF confirmed Tuesday morning, in order for the program to focus on Johnson’s continued recovery.
A decision on whether or not to move forward with Florida’s contest Saturday against Florida Atlantic is expected by Thursday, if not sooner, a source said, requesting anonymity due to the sensitive and fluid nature of the situation.
A makeup date with North Florida is to be determined, UF spokesman Denver Parler said.
"Florida basketball and the UAA wish to thank UNF's coaching staff, administration and team for their flexibility and willingness to make this schedule change," Parler said.
UF posted the following Monday night on its Twitter account:
"We, along with his family, are so thankful for the outpouring of love & support for Keyontae as we continue to lift him up in collective thoughts & prayers. For those that want to send letters or cards send to P.O. Box 14485, Gainesville, Fl., 32604 C/O UF administration."


usatoday--2020-12-15--Fashion magnate Peter Nygard charged in sex trafficking scheme, including minors

Federal prosecutors unsealed sex trafficking charges Tuesday against Canadian fashion magnate Peter Nygard , linking him to a suspected long-running scheme involving at least a dozen victims in the U.S. , Bahamas , Canada and other locations .
Nygard , 79 , was arrested by Canadian authorities Monday in Winnipeg at the request of U.S. officials .
For 25 years , prosecutors said , Nygard used the resources and influence of an international fashion empire to `` recruit and maintain adult and minor-aged female victims for Nygard ’ s sexual gratification and the sexual gratification of his friends and business @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his associates , including his company 's employees , used `` force , fraud , and coercion '' to arrange sexual encounters for Nygard that involved minors .
`` Nygard frequently targeted women and minor-aged girls who came from disadvantaged economic backgrounds ( or ) who had a history of abuse , '' federal officials said .
`` He controlled his victims through threats , false promises of modeling opportunities and other career advancement , financial support , and by other coercive means , including constant surveillance , restrictions of movement , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Who is at risk ?
The realities of human trafficking Prosecutors asserted that Nygard `` forcibly sexually assaulted '' some victims , while others were assaulted by the executive 's associates to `` ensure their compliance '' with the sexual demands .
The nine-count indictment , which also included racketeering and prostitution charges , said Nygard hosted `` swinger '' and `` pamper parties '' at his properties in Marina del Rey , California , and the Bahamas , where he used girlfriends or other employees to recruit others for sexual encounters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minors , were drugged to force their compliance with his sexual demands , '' prosecutors said .
`` Other victims had no advance warning of Nygard ’ s interest in sexual activity before being lured to a secluded area of the property where Nygard used physical force ( or ) psychological pressure to coerce sex . ''
If you suspect someone is the victim of human trafficking , or you 're a victim of trafficking , call the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text `` BeFree '' 233733 .

Fashion magnate Peter Nygard charged in sex trafficking scheme, including minors
Show Caption Hide Caption ShowBiz Minute: Nygard, Styles, Queen Elizabeth II Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard arrested on sexual assault charges; Harry Styles postpones 2021 UK and European tour; Queen Elizabeth II attends virtual celebration of KPMG's 150th anniversary, expresses empathy for employees. (Dec. 16) AP
Federal prosecutors unsealed sex trafficking charges Tuesday against Canadian fashion magnate Peter Nygard, linking him to a suspected long-running scheme involving at least a dozen victims in the U.S., Bahamas, Canada and other locations.
Nygard, 79, was arrested by Canadian authorities Monday in Winnipeg at the request of U.S. officials.
For 25 years, prosecutors said, Nygard used the resources and influence of an international fashion empire to "recruit and maintain adult and minor-aged female victims for Nygard’s sexual gratification and the sexual gratification of his friends and business associates."
Prosecutors said Nygard and his associates, including his company's employees, used "force, fraud, and coercion" to arrange sexual encounters for Nygard that involved minors.
"Nygard frequently targeted women and minor-aged girls who came from disadvantaged economic backgrounds (or) who had a history of abuse," federal officials said. "He controlled his victims through threats, false promises of modeling opportunities and other career advancement, financial support, and by other coercive means, including constant surveillance, restrictions of movement, and physical isolation."
Myth vs. reality: Who is at risk? The realities of human trafficking
Prosecutors asserted that Nygard "forcibly sexually assaulted" some victims, while others were assaulted by the executive's associates to "ensure their compliance" with the sexual demands.
The nine-count indictment, which also included racketeering and prostitution charges, said Nygard hosted "swinger" and "pamper parties" at his properties in Marina del Rey, California, and the Bahamas, where he used girlfriends or other employees to recruit others for sexual encounters.
"Some unwilling participants, including minors, were drugged to force their compliance with his sexual demands," prosecutors said. "Other victims had no advance warning of Nygard’s interest in sexual activity before being lured to a secluded area of the property where Nygard used physical force (or) psychological pressure to coerce sex."
Nygard's attorney, Elkan Abramowitiz, declined to comment Tuesday.
If you suspect someone is the victim of human trafficking, or you're a victim of trafficking, call the U.S. National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text "BeFree" 233733.


usatoday--2020-12-16--Heading out early for the holidays? Airlines are issuing travel waivers ahead of East Coast snow

Heads up if you 're due to fly this week : A major East Coast storm might disrupt your travel plans .
Winter Storm Gail is forecast to impact a wide swath of the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions on Wednesday and Thursday , stretching from Maine all the way down to southern Virginia and western North Carolina .
For the big cities , according to the Weather Service , the snowfall forecast for Washington , D.C. , is 3 to 4 inches ; for Philadelphia , 8 to 12 inches ; for New York City , 14 inches ; and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forecasters are warning that the storm will hit hard and fast with major disruptions to travel and even travel shutdowns , as well as shipping delays , school closings and power outages from this `` blockbuster '' storm , AccuWeather said .
Airlines have already started issuing broad travel waivers for passengers who want to dodge the storm , forecast to be the most significant winter storm in several years , by leaving earlier , later or canceling their trip altogether .
Airlines issue waivers and proactively cancel flights so they do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covered , travel dates and other fine print vary by airline and are likely to change with the storm 's projected path and severity .
For now , passengers covered are those due to fly Wednesday or Thursday .
Note that passengers with nonrefundable tickets are not eligible for a refund unless the airline cancels your flight .
However , travelers are eligible to cancel their flight and receive credit toward a future flight and wo n't have to pay onerous ticket change fees , even on basic economy tickets .
Thinking of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time this week or early next week if it is covered by the waiver ?
Do n't dawdle .
Rebooking options , already limited by airline flight cuts due to the pandemic , dwindle as more passengers scramble to change their plans .
Complicating matters : the first batch of holiday travelers will take off this weekend .
Most airlines allow passengers to change their flights online .
Stay home : The CDC says Americans should avoid travel during winter holidays Here 's a round up of policies by airline .
Click the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and procedures .
If your city is n't on the list yet , check back later for updates .
Destinations covered : Six , including New York , Newark , Philadelphia and Providence .
Destinations covered : 21 , including Albany , New York ; Allentown , Pennsylvania ; Baltimore , Boston and New York Holiday travel forecast : AAA expects 30 % fewer holiday travelers in 2020 : When not to drive , what to expect

Heading out early for the holidays? Airlines are issuing travel waivers ahead of East Coast snow
Show Caption Hide Caption Substantial snowstorm brewing for Northeast and mid-Atlantic Following a quick-hitting snowstorm at the start of the week, a much larger storm will take aim at the region from Tuesday to Thursday. Accuweather
Heads up if you're due to fly this week: A major East Coast storm might disrupt your travel plans.
Winter Storm Gail is forecast to impact a wide swath of the Northeast and mid-Atlantic regions on Wednesday and Thursday, stretching from Maine all the way down to southern Virginia and western North Carolina.
For the big cities, according to the Weather Service, the snowfall forecast for Washington, D.C., is 3 to 4 inches; for Philadelphia, 8 to 12 inches; for New York City, 14 inches; and 8 to 12 inches in Boston.
Forecasters are warning that the storm will hit hard and fast with major disruptions to travel and even travel shutdowns, as well as shipping delays, school closings and power outages from this "blockbuster" storm, AccuWeather said.
Airlines have already started issuing broad travel waivers for passengers who want to dodge the storm, forecast to be the most significant winter storm in several years, by leaving earlier, later or canceling their trip altogether. Airlines issue waivers and proactively cancel flights so they don't strand passengers and planes.
The destinations covered, travel dates and other fine print vary by airline and are likely to change with the storm's projected path and severity. For now, passengers covered are those due to fly Wednesday or Thursday.
Note that passengers with nonrefundable tickets are not eligible for a refund unless the airline cancels your flight. However, travelers are eligible to cancel their flight and receive credit toward a future flight and won't have to pay onerous ticket change fees, even on basic economy tickets.
Thinking of changing your flight to another day or time this week or early next week if it is covered by the waiver? Don't dawdle. Rebooking options, already limited by airline flight cuts due to the pandemic, dwindle as more passengers scramble to change their plans. Complicating matters: the first batch of holiday travelers will take off this weekend.
Most airlines allow passengers to change their flights online.
Stay home: The CDC says Americans should avoid travel during winter holidays
We’ve issued a travel waiver for U.S. Northeast in anticipation of winter weather. If you’re traveling 12/16 - 12/17, you can change your flight at no cost on our mobile app, by direct messaging us here or calling 1-800-864-8331. Waiver:https://t.co/PYYzbwohv9 pic.twitter.com/4UTTjgKkB1 — United Airlines (@united) December 15, 2020
Here's a round up of policies by airline. Click the carrier name to view its rebooking rules and procedures. If your city isn't on the list yet, check back later for updates.
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: 37, including Baltimore, Cincinnati, Cleveland, New York, Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: 19, including Baltimore, Boston, Syracuse, Philadelphia and New York.
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: Six, including New York, Newark, Philadelphia and Providence.
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: 10, including Baltimore, Boston, Hartford and New York
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: 12, including Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Boston and Philadelphia
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: 12, including Hartford, Connecticut; New York LaGuardia, Newark and Akron, Ohio
Travel dates: Dec. 16-17
Destinations covered: 21, including Albany, New York; Allentown, Pennsylvania; Baltimore, Boston and New York
Contributing: Doyle Rice
Holiday travel forecast: AAA expects 30% fewer holiday travelers in 2020: When not to drive, what to expect


usatoday--2020-12-15--No more free coffee? Starbucks pauses 'Happy Hour' promotions due to crowd concerns amid coronavirus

Starbucks is pausing its popular buy-one-get-one-free promotions as coronavirus cases rise .
The Seattle-based coffee giant confirmed to USA TODAY that it has canceled Happy Hours scheduled for December and early January to prevent crowds of people from gathering .
`` Given the rise in cases and the current guidance from the scientific community to not gather indoors in large groups for prolonged periods of time , we decided to pause Happy Hours in December and January 7 , '' Starbucks said in a statement to USA TODAY .
`` We are temporarily moving to other promotions such as Double @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as we continue to monitor the situation . ''
Deadline day : Tuesday is last day for UPS , FedEx , USPS ground shipping for Christmas Eve delivery .
But will your gifts be late ?
Freebie alert : McDonald 's giving away free food – from cheeseburgers to coffee – with app purchases now through Christmas Eve Reuters first reported the suspension of Happy Hour events Tuesday citing an internal memo to employees .
Starbucks shared a Dec. 1 letter with USA TODAY that Rossann Williams , executive vice president , president @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to U.S. employees .
`` We will always prioritize your safety and in this moment , we all have a role and responsibility – as Starbucks partners – to protect each other , our customers and our business as we navigate this pandemic , '' Williams wrote .
In December 2019 , Starbucks had four Happy Hour events plus held more than 1,000 `` Pop-Up Parties '' at select restaurants over five days in late December .
It 's not the first time Starbucks paused the promotion .
It did at the beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hour events about three months later , starting June 18 .
More than 5,400 Starbucks employees signed a petition on Coworker.org asking Starbucks to stop the Happy Hour events and cancel them for the remainder of 2020 .
Starbucks was one of the first major chains to change how it operates in mid-March and shifted most of its restaurants at the time to a to-go model .
It also has been encouraging customers to use the Starbucks app to reduce the number of interactions with employees at stores by ordering and paying ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have used three simple principles to guide our decisions through COVID-19 – prioritizing the health and well-being of our partners ( employees ) and customers ; playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of this virus ; and showing up in a positive and responsible way to serve our communities , '' Starbucks said in its statement to USA TODAY Tuesday .
Starbucks is giving away free coffee through Dec. 31 to `` any customer who identifies as a front-line responder to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here . )
The company also is holding its annual `` Starbucks for Life '' contest through Jan. 4 with prizes totaling nearly $ 3 million up for grabs .
Popeyes has a new dessert : Chocolate Beignets are now available nationwide — but only for a limited time Starbucks freebie : Starbucks offers free coffee to health care workers , first responders as coronavirus cases rise

No more free coffee? Starbucks pauses 'Happy Hour' promotions due to crowd concerns amid coronavirus surges
Show Caption Hide Caption Goat gets into the holiday spirit with a festive drink from Starbucks Everyone loves Starbucks holiday drinks. Even goats. USA TODAY, Storyful
Starbucks is pausing its popular buy-one-get-one-free promotions as coronavirus cases rise.
The Seattle-based coffee giant confirmed to USA TODAY that it has canceled Happy Hours scheduled for December and early January to prevent crowds of people from gathering.
"Given the rise in cases and the current guidance from the scientific community to not gather indoors in large groups for prolonged periods of time, we decided to pause Happy Hours in December and January 7," Starbucks said in a statement to USA TODAY. "We are temporarily moving to other promotions such as Double Star Days and will reassess future plans as we continue to monitor the situation."
Deadline day: Tuesday is last day for UPS, FedEx, USPS ground shipping for Christmas Eve delivery. But will your gifts be late?
Freebie alert: McDonald's giving away free food – from cheeseburgers to coffee – with app purchases now through Christmas Eve
Reuters first reported the suspension of Happy Hour events Tuesday citing an internal memo to employees.
Starbucks shared a Dec. 1 letter with USA TODAY that Rossann Williams, executive vice president, president U.S. company-operated business and Canada, sent to U.S. employees.
"We will always prioritize your safety and in this moment, we all have a role and responsibility – as Starbucks partners – to protect each other, our customers and our business as we navigate this pandemic," Williams wrote.
In December 2019, Starbucks had four Happy Hour events plus held more than 1,000 "Pop-Up Parties" at select restaurants over five days in late December.
It's not the first time Starbucks paused the promotion. It did at the beginning of the pandemic and reintroduced its Happy Hour events about three months later, starting June 18.
More than 5,400 Starbucks employees signed a petition on Coworker.org asking Starbucks to stop the Happy Hour events and cancel them for the remainder of 2020.
Starbucks was one of the first major chains to change how it operates in mid-March and shifted most of its restaurants at the time to a to-go model. It also has been encouraging customers to use the Starbucks app to reduce the number of interactions with employees at stores by ordering and paying ahead.
Starbucks will give free coffee to frontline workers Starbucks has announced that it will give free tall brewed coffee to first responders and health care workers throughout December. unbranded - Lifestyle, unbranded - Lifestyle
"From the beginning, we have used three simple principles to guide our decisions through COVID-19 – prioritizing the health and well-being of our partners (employees) and customers; playing a constructive role in supporting health and government officials as they work to mitigate the spread of this virus; and showing up in a positive and responsible way to serve our communities," Starbucks said in its statement to USA TODAY Tuesday.
Starbucks is giving away free coffee through Dec. 31 to "any customer who identifies as a front-line responder to the COVID-19 outbreak." (Learn more here.)
The company also is holding its annual "Starbucks for Life" contest through Jan. 4 with prizes totaling nearly $3 million up for grabs.
Popeyes has a new dessert: Chocolate Beignets are now available nationwide — but only for a limited time
Starbucks freebie: Starbucks offers free coffee to health care workers, first responders as coronavirus cases rise
Follow USA TODAY reporter Kelly Tyko on Twitter: @KellyTyko


usatoday--2020-12-15--Snow days canceled because of COVID-19 online school? Not in these school districts

The biggest East Coast winter storm in years is on target to strike Wednesday and Thursday , but students in many areas might not rejoice over the forecasted 2 feet of snow the same way they once did .
That 's because snow days , those celebrated breaks from school , are melting away during a time of virtual learning in the coronavirus pandemic .
In September , New York City said the nation 's largest school district would n't have snow days .
If school buildings could n't open , students would learn remotely .
With a snowstorm bearing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bill de Blasio said school would continue normally on Wednesday , with some students learning in person .
He promised an update if the storm were to prevent school buildings from staying open on Thursday .
In that case , he said Tuesday , students would still learn remotely .
New York is n't alone .
Education Week , a news organization covering K-12 education , surveyed principals and district leaders in November and found nationally that 39 % have converted snow days to remote learning days and another 32 % are considering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will give students the day off only on the first two snow days of the year .
Green Bay Schools in Wisconsin and the Salem district in Massachusetts wo n't have any snow days this year , and Omaha schools have done away with snow days permanently .
But other schools have told parents to let kids be kids .
`` Snow days are chances for on-site learners and virtual learners to just be kids by playing in the snow , baking cookies , reading books and watching a good movie , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told parents in an email in October .
“ These are times for memory-making , and we believe these types of opportunities should remain intact.
” The district , which has about 3,000 students , is in a hybrid mode of schooling , where students attend both in person and online .
Further north , in Massachusetts , Holbrook Public School District Superintendent Julie Hamilton said in an email Monday she is not getting rid of snow days .
`` Teachers in Holbrook come from over 40 other towns which could lead to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instruction if those towns experience power outages , '' she said .
No more snow days after COVID-19 ?
These schools used online learning to cancel them .
Outside the nation 's capital , both Fairfax and Loudoun County Public School districts left the door open for snow days .
Students in Fairfax County are currently learning entirely remotely , with plans to return groups of students to school buildings starting in January .
Although the district has yet to finalize its snow day policy for this winter , officials wrote in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` if conditions are warranted , we do anticipate that there will be 'typical ' snow days as we have had in past years . ''
In Loudoun County , students returned to distance learning on Tuesday because of a surge in COVID-19 cases in the community .
Even so , classes were canceled Wednesday with the impending storm .
Assistant Schools Superintendent Kevin Lewis told parents in an email , per ABC7 news , that public utilities affected by the weather , staff not being able to get into their classrooms to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could factor in to a decision to close .
Students are falling behind : Where 's the COVID-19 'disaster plan ' to catch them up ?

Snow days canceled because of COVID-19 online school? Not in these school districts
Show Caption Hide Caption Mid-December snow blankets New York Social media users across New York state shared video of snow-covered scenes to start their week. Accuweather
Forecasters expected 2 feet of snow this week from the biggest East Coast winter storm in years, but students in many areas might not rejoice the same way they once did.
Snow days, those celebrated breaks from school, are melting away during a time of virtual learning in the coronavirus pandemic.
In September, New York City said the nation's largest school district wouldn't have snow days. If school buildings couldn't open, students would learn remotely.
As the snowstorm bore down this week, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said school would continue normally Wednesday, with some students learning in person. He promised an update if the storm prevented school buildings from opening Thursday. In that case, he said Tuesday, students would learn remotely.
New York isn't alone. Education Week, a news organization covering K-12 education, surveyed principals and district leaders in November and found nationally that 39% converted snow days to remote learning days and 32% were considering it.
West Hartford Public Schools in Connecticut will give students the day off only on the first two snow days of the year. Green Bay schools in Wisconsin and the Salem district in Massachusetts won't have any snow days this year, and Omaha schools did away with snow days permanently.
Other schools told parents to let kids be kids.
"Snow days are chances for on-site learners and virtual learners to just be kids by playing in the snow, baking cookies, reading books and watching a good movie," New Jersey's Mahwah Township Public Schools told parents in an email in October. “These are times for memory-making, and we believe these types of opportunities should remain intact.”
The district, which has about 3,000 students, is in a hybrid mode of schooling, in which students attend both in person and online.
Absolutely LOVE this from our school district superintendent.
Sure, we could do virtual classes on snow days now, but why would we take *another* thing away from the kids?
I dunno what it says about me but this email almost made me cry pic.twitter.com/eBIbd8MrIm — Your Dad, David Teicher (@Aerocles) October 27, 2020
Outside of Philadelphia, Neshaminy School District will continue to have snow days unless they threaten to lengthen the school year, Superintendent Rob McGee has told students and parents.
"Snow days serve a number of purposes including allowing time for students, parents and staff to do essential snow day things such as dig out the driveway, dig out the neighbor's driveway, watch their younger siblings, etc., so life may return to normal the following day," McGee wrote.
Bristol Township School District's Superintendent Melanie Gehrens said snow days will be used there on the first days of major storms, depending on severity to help with snow removal and maintain "family bonding time and snow day traditions."
No more snow days after COVID-19?These schools used online learning to cancel them.
In Massachusetts, Holbrook Public School District Superintendent Julie Hamilton gave other reasons that she is not getting rid of snow days in an email Monday.
"Teachers in Holbrook come from over 40 other towns which could lead to inconsistency around our ability to run remote instruction if those towns experience power outages," she said.
Outside the nation's capital, Fairfax and Loudoun County Public School districts in Virginia left the door open for snow days.
Students in Fairfax County are learning entirely remotely, though there are plans to return groups of students to school buildings starting in January. Although the district has yet to finalize its snow day policy for this winter, officials wrote in an email that this week, "if conditions are warranted, we do anticipate that there will be 'typical' snow days as we have had in past years."
In Loudoun County, students returned to distance learning Tuesday because of a surge in COVID-19 cases in the community. Even so, classes were canceled Wednesday because of the storm.
Students fall behind: Where's the COVID-19 'disaster plan' to catch them up?
Contributing: Chris English, Bucks County Courier Times


usatoday--2020-12-15--2021 Mustang Mach-E electric SUV  is everything most of us could ask for

If you care about cars , technology or climate change , it ’ s impossible not to feel a thrill walking up to a 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E. Not that the first electric SUV to bear the legendary Mustang pony badge is a big deal , or anything , but hey , the first edition is sold out , and the waiting list for others is n't getting any shorter .
The sleek , five-seat newcomer successfully transfers the magic of the Mustang to the vehicle that launches Ford ’ s transition to electric power .
It ’ s a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classic Mustang coupe and convertible that created the pony car ’ s mystique , buyers who want all-out performance will have to wait for upcoming GT and other models , but initial models of the Mach-E make Ford a strong player as electric vehicles bid for widespread acceptance .
Worried about another recession ?
: Here 's what the stock market is predicting for 2021 Bad headlights : They have been a problem for years , but they 're getting better , IIHS says The battery-powered Mach-E is everything most of its owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , room for people and cargo , up to 300 miles range on a charge , no obvious twitches or glitches to alienate EV skeptics .
In an afternoon driving Mach-Es on highways , city and country roads and a closed course , the Mach-E checked key boxes : • Able and responsive in traffic .
• Mustang has far more passenger and cargo space than the coupe .
• Easy to drive , with no bleeding-edge quirkiness .
If you can drive , you can drive Ford ’ s new EV .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including an app to help plan charging stops on road trips .
Eager early-adopters who ordered in advance should get their Mach-Es shortly .
Vehicles ordered now — online or at your dealer — will arrive in 2021 .
More powerful performance models arrive summer , 2021 .
Mach-E prices start at $ 42,895 for a rear-drive model .
Adding a second motor powering the front axle for all-wheel drive raises the base price to $ 45,595 .
Prices for currently available models go to $ 49,800 for a California Route 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ models sold out at $ 58,300 apiece .
All prices exclude destination charges .
More powerful GT and GT Performance edition models coming this summer will probably boost prices to around $ 70,000 , but nothing ’ s official yet .
All Mach-Es are eligible for incentives including a $ 7,500 federal tax credit .
The base RWD Mach-E comes with a 68kWh battery and EPA estimated range of 230 miles on a charge .
That falls to 210 for an AWD base .
RWD Mach-Es develop 266 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ single speed transmission .
Extended-range Mach-Es have an 88kWh battery — a $ 5,000 option , and destined to be a popular one .
It boosts the EPA range estimate to 300 miles with rear-drive and 270 for AWD .
Power is 290 horsepowerwith rear-drive and 346 with AWD .
Those figures seem easily attainable based on my time behind the wheel .
This was tested on a closed handling course at the American Center for Mobility proving ground just outside Detroit .
It stickered at $ 45,895 .
This one was tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , twisting country roads and suburban streets .
It stickered at $ 55,100 .
Compact and midsize electric SUVs are a growth stock .
Buyers ’ choices are about to expand from the Tesla X , Jaguar I-Pace and Audi E-tron to 2021-arriving newcomers including the VW ID 4 , Mercedes EQC and GMC Hummer 1,000-hp crew-cab pickup .
The Mach-E ’ s price and features appear competitive .
Its power and range also stack up well , a comparison that will only get better when the GT and GT Performance Edition arrive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 634 pound-feet of torque , respectively .
Ford ’ s new EV architecture carries its batteries in the floor pan , a design common among vehicles engineered from the start to be EVs , as opposed to old-style cars and SUVs that were modified to hold batteries .
• The battery doesn ’ t intrude on passenger or luggage room .
• Putting the heavy battery so low in the vehicle creates a low center of gravity , which contributes to good road-holding in quick maneuvers .
As a result , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.25 inches higher than a Mustang coupe , despite the fact that the SUV is 9.1 inches taller than the sporty coupe .
The AWD Mach-E I drove for an afternoon stuck to the road like 2½ tons of metal on Pirelli rubber , which is exactly what it was .
My car ’ s 4,838-pound curb weight made itself felt in incipient push around fast curves and traffic circles , despite the SUV ’ s sporty 49/51 front/rear weight distribution .
Mass isn ’ t easily destroyed , unless you ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ride suspension on the performance models coming this summer should at least make some of that weight disappear in enthusiastic driving .
The acceleration of extended-range AWD Mach-E Premium is more than acceptable .
Ford claims 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds .
Electric motors deliver torque immediately , as you ’ re sick of hearing if you follow the technology .
If you ’ re not plugged into EV development , that ’ s different from internal combustion engines , which need to reach and remain in a specific rpm range to generate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equates to acceleration .
The upshot is that the Mach-E seems to jump forward when you hit the accelerator .
The Mach-E will be the first time many drivers experience another EV characteristic : one pedal driving .
It ’ s just what it sounds like , a setting where the energy from deceleration is recaptured so aggressively that the driver seldom has to touch the brake pedal .
The energy goes back to the battery , extending the SUV ’ s range .
One pedal driving can take some getting used to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly felt intuitive .
By the end of an afternoon driving , I only occasionally touched the brake .
The Mach-E ’ s steering is firm , with good on-center feel .
The suspension holds the body level in quick maneuvers and absorbs bumps well .
The interior is roomy , sporty and straightforward .
The controls are easy to use , including a 15.5-inch tablet style touch screen jutting from the dash .
The gauges are clear .
With no engine , there ’ s no engine note , but a natural-sounding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A tinted glass roof is standard .
There ’ s no shade .
That wasn ’ t an issue on a sunny November day , but I suspect I ’ d like one for a long summer drive .
The Mach-E is fun and responsive .
The launch models are the appetizer for its ultimate performance , but they deliver enough performance to satisfy most drivers .

2021 Mustang Mach-E electric SUV is everything most of us could ask for
Show Caption Hide Caption Mustang Mach-E SUV: Ford's muscle car goes electric Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford said he didn't want to give back the prototype of the company's first electric Mustang. USA TODAY
Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this story gave a wrong first name for Robert Oppenheimer.
If you care about cars, technology or climate change, it’s impossible not to feel a thrill walking up to a 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Not that the first electric SUV to bear the legendary Mustang pony badge is a big deal, or anything, but hey, the first edition is sold out, and the waiting list for others isn't getting any shorter.
The sleek, five-seat newcomer successfully transfers the magic of the Mustang to the vehicle that launches Ford’s transition to electric power. It’s a handsome, tech-rich vehicle. Like the classic Mustang coupe and convertible that created the pony car’s mystique, buyers who want all-out performance will have to wait for coming GT and other models, but initial models of the Mach-E make Ford a strong player as electric vehicles bid for widespread acceptance.
Worried about another recession?: Here's what the stock market is predicting for 2021
Bad headlights: They have been a problem for years, but they're getting better, IIHS says
The battery-powered Mach-E is everything most of its owners will ask for: easy to operate, room for people and cargo, up to 300 miles range on a charge, no obvious twitches or glitches to alienate EV skeptics.
In an afternoon driving Mach-Es on highways, city and country roads and a closed course, the Mach-E checked key boxes:
Able and responsive in traffic.
Mustang has far more passenger and cargo space than the coupe.
Easy to drive, with no bleeding-edge quirkiness. If you can drive, you can drive Ford’s new EV.
The advanced features appear reasonably intuitive, including an app to help plan charging stops on road trips.
Eager early-adopters who ordered in advance should get their Mach-Es shortly. Vehicles ordered now – online or at your dealer – will arrive in 2021. More powerful performance models arrive next summer.
Get in line.
Standard safety and driver assist features
They include:
Blind spot and cross traffic alerts.
Adaptive cruise control.
Speed limit sign recognition.
Automatic high beams.
Automatic front braking and collision alert.
Automatic rear braking.
Lane keeping alert and assist.
Post-collision braking.
How much?
Mach-E prices start at $42,895 for a rear-drive model. Adding a second motor powering the front axle for all-wheel drive raises the base price to $45,595. Prices for currently available models go to $49,800 for a California Route 1. A limited first edition of AWD models sold out at $58,300 apiece. All prices exclude destination charges.
More powerful GT and GT Performance edition models coming this summer will probably boost prices to around $70,000, but nothing’s official yet. All Mach-Es are eligible for incentives including a $7,500 federal tax credit.
The base RWD Mach-E comes with a 68kWh battery and EPA estimated range of 230 miles on a charge. That falls to 210 for an AWD base. RWD Mach-Es develop 266 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. All Mach-Es have a direct-drive single speed transmission.
Extended-range Mach-Es have an 88kWh battery – a $5,000 option, and destined to be a popular one. It boosts the EPA range estimate to 300 miles with rear-drive and 270 for AWD. Power is 290 horsepowerwith rear-drive and 346 with AWD.
Those figures seem easily attainable based on my time behind the wheel.
I tested two Mach-E’s on a windy November day.
RWD with normal range
This was tested on a closed handling course at the American Center for Mobility proving ground just outside Detroit. It stickered at $45,895.
Options included:
Heated front seats and steering wheel.
Foot-operated power tailgate.
Preparation for Ford’s coming system for hands-free highway driving.
Infinite Blue metallic paint.
Power front seats.
Memory for driver’s settings.
AWD extended range
This one was tested on a longer drive that included highways, twisting country roads and suburban streets. It stickered at $55,100.
Options included:
Rapid Red metallic paint.
Extended range battery.
Compact and midsize electric SUVs are a growth stock. Buyers’ choices are about to expand from the Tesla X, Jaguar I-Pace and Audi E-tron to 2021-arriving newcomers including the VW ID 4, Mercedes EQC and GMC Hummer 1,000-hp crew-cab pickup.
The Mach-E’s price and features appear competitive. Its power and range also stack up well, a comparison that will only get better when the GT and GT Performance Edition arrive this summer with 480 horsepower and 600 and 634 pound-feet of torque, respectively.
Driving impressions
Ford’s new EV architecture carries its batteries in the floor pan, a design common among vehicles engineered from the start to be EVs, as opposed to old-style cars and SUVs that were modified to hold batteries.
That delivers a couple of benefits:
The battery doesn’t intrude on passenger or luggage room.
Putting the heavy battery so low in the vehicle creates a low center of gravity, which contributes to good road-holding in quick maneuvers. As a result, the Mach-E's center of gravity is just 1.25 inches higher than a Mustang coupe, despite the fact that the SUV is 9.1 inches taller than the sporty coupe.
The AWD Mach-E I drove for an afternoon stuck to the road like 2½ tons of metal on Pirelli rubber, which is exactly what it was.
My car’s 4,838-pound curb weight made itself felt in incipient push around fast curves and traffic circles, despite the SUV’s sporty 49/51 front/rear weight distribution.
Mass isn’t easily destroyed unless you’re Robert Oppenheimer, but an adaptive magnetic ride suspension on the performance models coming this summer should at least make some of that weight disappear in enthusiastic driving.
New tech, familiar driving feel
The acceleration of extended-range AWD Mach-E Premium is more than acceptable. Ford claims zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Electric motors deliver torque immediately, as you’re sick of hearing if you follow the technology.
If you’re not plugged into EV development, that’s different from internal combustion engines, which need to reach and remain in a specific rpm range to generate maximum torque, the force that best equates to acceleration. The upshot is that the Mach-E seems to jump forward when you hit the accelerator.
The Mach-E will be the first time many drivers experience another EV characteristic: one pedal driving. It’s just what it sounds like: a setting where the energy from deceleration is recaptured so aggressively that the driver seldom has to touch the brake pedal. The energy goes back to the battery, extending the SUV’s range.
One-pedal driving can take some getting used to in other EVs, but the Mach-E quickly felt intuitive. By the end of an afternoon driving, I only occasionally touched the brake.
The Mach-E’s steering is firm, with good on-center feel. The suspension holds the body level in quick maneuvers and absorbs bumps well.
The interior is roomy, sporty and straightforward. The controls are easy to use, including a 15.5-inch tablet style touch screen jutting from the dash. The gauges are clear. With no engine, there’s no engine note, but a natural-sounding generated rumble connotes performance in sport mode.
A tinted glass roof is standard. There’s no shade. That wasn’t an issue on a sunny November day, but I suspect I’d like one for a long summer drive.
The Mach-E is fun and responsive. The launch models are the appetizer for its ultimate performance, but they deliver enough performance to satisfy most drivers.


usatoday--2020-12-16--College Football Playoff ranking: Top four stay the same heading into final week

The top five of the final College Football Playoff committee 's in-season rankings announced Tuesday look exactly like the first three reveals .
Alabama again leads Notre Dame , Clemson , Ohio State and Texas A & M heading into the last weekend of the regular season .
The Crimson Tide will face No .
7 Florida in the SEC championship game knowing that even a loss likely wo n't knock them completely out of the field .
The Fighting Irish and the Tigers will renew acquaintances for the second time this season in the ACC title game .
Notre @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clemson win this time could result in spots for both teams .
The Buckeyes face a win-or-out matchup against No .
14 Northwestern in the Big Ten title game , while the Aggies hope for some help ahead of them -- a loss by Clemson or Ohio State -- to get consideration .
Iowa State , the highest team from the Big 12 , checks in at No .
6 .
The Cyclones face No .
10 Oklahoma in the conference title game .
Both could get consideration if there are upsets ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Winners and losers from the fourth playoff rankings Florida only dropped one spot after a loss to LSU at home as a three-touchdown favorite .
Right behind the Gators is SEC rival Georgia .
Cincinnati falls one spot to No .
9 and leads the Group of Five schools in contention for the New Year 's Six spot given to the conferences outside the Power Five .
The Bearcats , who have n't played since Nov. 21 , will face No .
23 Tulsa in the American Athletic championship game .
`` The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the beginning , '' playoff committee Gary Barta said .
`` The teams around them and ahead of them have played two or three games that we 've been able to evaluate .
One of the things that holds Cincinnati back ... is they do n't have a win against a Top 25 . ''
One team that was in the top 10 last week fell out .
No .
18 Miami was routed by North Carolina and tumbled eight places .
No .
12 Coastal Carolina remains in contention for the first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ school .
The Chanticleers get one more opportunity to impress the committee against Louisiana-Lafayette in the Sun Belt championship game .
The top four teams in the final rankings released Dec. 20 will play in the semifinals .
Those games will take place at the Rose Bowl and Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1 .
The championship game will be played on Jan. 11 in Miami Gardens , Florida .

College Football Playoff ranking: Top four stay the same heading into final week
Show Caption Hide Caption CFP rankings 4.0: Alabama and Notre Dame are locks, here's how Clemson, Ohio State and A&M could join them SportsPulse: The College Football Playoff will be revealed this weekend. And as Dan Wolken puts it, the only potential drama left is what would happen if Clemson were to lose to Notre Dame (again). SportsPulse, USA TODAY
The top five of the final College Football Playoff committee's in-season rankings announced Tuesday look exactly like the first three reveals.
Alabama again leads Notre Dame, Clemson, Ohio State and Texas A&M heading into the last weekend of the regular season.
The Crimson Tide will face No. 7 Florida in the SEC championship game knowing that even a loss likely won't knock them completely out of the field. The Fighting Irish and the Tigers will renew acquaintances for the second time this season in the ACC title game. Notre Dame won the first meeting. A Clemson win this time could result in spots for both teams.
The Buckeyes face a win-or-out matchup against No. 14 Northwestern in the Big Ten title game, while the Aggies hope for some help ahead of them -- a loss by Clemson or Ohio State -- to get consideration.
Iowa State, the highest team from the Big 12, checks in at No. 6. The Cyclones face No. 10 Oklahoma in the conference title game. Both could get consideration if there are upsets ahead of them.
UPS AND DOWNS: Winners and losers from the fourth playoff rankings
BIG CALL: If Notre Dame beats Clemson, committee faces tough decision
Florida only dropped one spot after a loss to LSU at home as a three-touchdown favorite. Right behind the Gators is SEC rival Georgia.
Cincinnati falls one spot to No. 9 and leads the Group of Five schools in contention for the New Year's Six spot given to the conferences outside the Power Five. The Bearcats, who haven't played since Nov. 21, will face No. 23 Tulsa in the American Athletic championship game.
"The committee has shown appreciation for Cincinnati from the beginning," playoff committee Gary Barta said. "The teams around them and ahead of them have played two or three games that we've been able to evaluate. One of the things that holds Cincinnati back ... is they don't have a win against a Top 25."
One team that was in the top 10 last week fell out. No. 18 Miami was routed by North Carolina and tumbled eight places.
No. 12 Coastal Carolina remains in contention for the first at-large berth for a Group of Five school. The Chanticleers get one more opportunity to impress the committee against Louisiana-Lafayette in the Sun Belt championship game.
The top four teams in the final rankings released Dec. 20 will play in the semifinals. Those games will take place at the Rose Bowl and Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1. The championship game will be played on Jan. 11 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
College Football Playoff committee Top 25
1. Alabama (10-0)
2. Notre Dame (10-0)
3. Clemson (9-1)
4. Ohio State (5-0)
5. Texas A&M (7-1)
6. Iowa State (8-2)
7. Florida (8-2)
8. Georgia (5-2)
9. Cincinnati (8-0)
10. Oklahoma (7-2)
11. Indiana (6-1)
12. Coastal Carolina (11-0)
13. Southern California (5-0)
14. Northwestern (6-1)
15. North Carolina (8-3)
16. Iowa (6-2)
16. Brigham Young (10-1)
18. Miami (Fla.) (8-2)
19. Louisiana-Lafayette (9-1)
20. Texas (6-3)
21. Oklahoma State (7-3)
22. North Carolina State (8-3)
23. Tulsa (6-1)
24. San Jose State (6-0)
25. Colorado (4-1)