thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--The Push To Allow Guns At Polling Places Is Straightforward Voter Intimidation

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There is an unmistakable effort underway to intimidate voters — specifically Democratic voters — when they go to the polls. The president himself has repeatedly threatened to send law enforcement to voting locations to hunt for supposed voter fraud, while more organic efforts include bullhorns, honking cars with Trump flags, and shouting confrontations directed at people lined up at early polling stations in blue or purple areas.
Bringing and displaying weapons at voting sites is one facet of potential intimidation that’s emerged in the weeks leading up to Election Day. There is an organised push from right-wing groups to show up at the polls with guns: a development election officials fear will create an unsafe environment for other voters to cast their ballots. In one swing state, an effort to limit the presence of guns at polling locations was met with a court fight and a standoff between the state’s election officials and some members of law enforcement.
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Each state has specific laws around whether guns are permitted at voting locations — but only about a dozen states explicitly ban open and/or concealed carry of firearms at the polls. The legality of bringing a gun to vote can hinge on a technicality, like whether the polling place is a church, school or government building.
But the legal wrangling over who is allowed to arm themselves at which polling locations obscures a more straightforward point: voter intimidation is a federal crime everywhere in the US, and many voters would feel intimidated by visibly armed people at their polling places.
“Showing up with a gun with the intent to show it really violates the norms of our democracy,” Josh Horwitz, the executive director of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, said in an interview.
“There’s a continuum of intimidation,” Horwitz continued, and “a certain segment of the gun-owning population — these really extreme gun rights radicals — think that bringing a gun to all these places is a political statement. And that statement is, ‘I’m better than you. My voice matters more than yours.’”
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In recognition of the intimidating impact visible weapons at the polls could have on voters, Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced a ban earlier this month on open carry of firearms within 100 feet of polling locations on November 3. As a swing state, even a few people in Michigan spotting guns at their voting centre and deciding that casting their ballot isn’t worth the risk could have a significant impact on the election.
Right-wing gun enthusiasts and some law enforcement officials immediately rebelled. A coalition of pro-gun groups in Michigan sued to prevent its enforcement, claiming that the “practical effect” of the policy was to “disenfranchise” voters who support the Second Amendment. Several law enforcement officials said they would not enforce the ban. On Tuesday, a judge struck down the open carry ban, a decision Benson said she will appeal.
Regardless of how the legal battle plays out, the organised backlash against the effort to ban open carry at the polls already has some Michigan voters on edge. On the Facebook pages for two of the pro-gun groups behind the lawsuit, several people indicated plans to bring visible guns with them to vote, in part to spite Benson’s effort. Elissa Slotkin, a Democratic congresswoman from Michigan, told Politico that voters have been calling their local election officials and asking, “What do we do if someone shows up carrying an AK-47 into the polls? Who do we call? Some of the local law enforcement have already said they won’t enforce it. What do we do?”
The use of guns as a means of political intimidation isn’t theoretical in Michigan. Earlier this year, a group of heavily armed protesters entered the capitol building to demand an end to the state’s Covid-19 stay-at-home orders. A group of people opposed to governor Gretchen Whitmer’s pandemic precautions are currently recruiting volunteers to show up near the polls on November 3 to collect signatures to recall the governor — who was the recent target of a failed kidnapping plot by militia members.
The risk of voter intimidation is heightened by US President Donald Trump’s repeated encouragement that his supporters partake in the effort. Trump has urged his fans to “go into the poll and watch very carefully,” a directive that is likely illegal. Asked to direct white supremacist groups and militias to “stand down” in cities where far-right extremists have confronted anti-racist protesters, Trump instead directed the Proud Boys, a violent neo-fascist street gang, to “stand back and stand by.”
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The Trump campaign is aggressively recruiting poll watchers to join the “Army for Trump,” to protect the president from Democrats who are supposedly trying to steal the election. Poll watchers have to be vetted and approved before the election and there are strict limitations on what they can do at the polls. The Trump campaign’s official poll watching materials acknowledge as much — but the rhetoric that is more immediately available to most voters inaccurately implies that any Trump supporter can show up on a whim and take it upon themselves to referee the election.
Earlier this month, a private security company called Atlas Aegis tried to recruit former members of the military to guard Minnesota polling places, businesses and residences “from looting and destruction,” a likely reference to people protesting against the police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, in Minneapolis in May. The state’s attorney general Keith Ellison reached a settlement with Atlas Aegis, in which the group agreed not to provide election-related security.
In Iowa, also a swing state, election officials are bracing for gun-related voter intimidation as a result of a new state law prohibiting bans on firearms in city or government buildings unless an armed security guard is present. As a result of the new law, there will be more polling places in the state where it is legal for people to bring their guns to vote.
Not all of the efforts to get guns at the polls are statewide or attracting media attention. In Virginia, a group called the Virginia Citizens Defense League designated Tuesday, October 27, as “gun owners vote early and in person day.”
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“Hopefully a lot of other gun owners will be in line with you!” the group wrote on its Facebook page. VCDL, a fringe pro-gun group, is best known for organizing an armed rally in Richmond, Virginia, in January to protest gun control, attended by far-right extremists and neo-Nazis.
Even if most municipalities were to succeed in banning guns from polling sites, the very public fight over lethal weapons where people vote could have a dampening effect on some people’s willingness to show up and cast a ballot.
“The rhetoric around these issues is intentionally voter suppressing — it’s intentionally trying to discourage voters from participating by scaring them away from the polls.” Eliza Sweren-Becker, counsel in the Brennan Center’s voting rights and elections program, said, adding that voters can always flag intimidation concerns with poll workers and call the Election Protection hotline.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Adele Finally Addresses Skepta Dating Rumours As She Reflects On Saturday Night Live Stint

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However, in an Instagram post shared on Wednesday, Adele made it clear that she’s not with anyone at the moment.
Adele and Skepta Rex/Shutterstock
She wrote: “Had the best time on SNL! Thank you to the most wonderful cast, crew, writers and producers. What a sublime bunch of people you are.”
“I did it for the joy of it and I hope you got some from it too!” the Grammy-winning star continued. “Good luck with the election America I love you so much. Look after each other and go easy on yourselves. Happy Halloween!”
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Adele concluded: “I’m going back to my cave now to be the (single) cat lady that I am! Peace out til next year.”
When Adele was first announced as an SNL guest host, it sparked plenty of speculation that she might be about to unveil her fourth album, or give a surprise performance.
This ultimately did not turn out to be the case, with Adele explaining in her opening monologue: “My album is not finished and I’m also too scared to [host and be musical guest on the same night].
“I would rather just put on some wigs – and this is all mine by the way – have a glass of wine or six and just see what happens.”
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Jennifer Garner On How 'Sweet' Matthew McConaughey Kept Her From Quitting Acting

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Jennifer Garner was on the brink of leaving acting behind for good until Matthew McConaughey convinced her otherwise.
The Alias alum, who’s starred alongside the actor in two projects ― Ghosts of Girlfriends Past and Dallas Buyers Club ― said her career took a back seat for a period of time after having her three children with ex-husband Ben Affleck.
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While she never left Hollywood altogether, Garner had significantly scaled down her commitment to acting before landing a part in Dallas Buyers Club, which made Oscar winners out of both McConaughey and co-star Jared Leto.
“My agent called me and said, ‘We’re either having a conversation about you taking this movie or your retirement,’” Garner told Kelly Corrigan in a PBS interview this week about the role, noting that she’d just “taken so much time” away.
Jennifer Garner and Matthew McConaughe Eric Charbonneau/Invision/AP
But filming the Jean-Marc Vallée-directed biopic proved to be a challenging experience for Garner, who was still breastfeeding at the time as her third child was just 9 months old when production began.
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The 21-day shooting schedule was also particularly rigorous, given both McConaughey and Leto lost a significant amount of weight to portray their characters and “weren’t eating.”
“My boobs were freaking out,” a visibly emotional Garner said of a particularly difficult day on set. “It was bedtime and we were doing some scene that was supposed to be light and I started crying and I was like, ‘I have to quit. I have to go home and be with my kids. I just can’t do this anymore.’”
“Sweet Matthew McConaughey pulled me aside and said, ‘What is going on with you?’” she continued, while holding back tears.
McConaughey proceeded to tell the crew that Garner needed a minute, allowing her to go to the bathroom. From then on, Garner said, whenever she needed to pump breastmilk, she would “give him a high sign and I would go take care of it.”
“You can do both. You’ve got it,” she recalled him telling her. “You can do it.”
“How much do I love that guy?” Garner said of McConaughey. “I know, a lot.”
SIPA USA/PA Images
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The two have remained close ever since with Garner paying tribute to her frequent co-star in 2014, alongside Anne Hathaway, Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Chastain, when he became the 28th recipient of the American Cinematheque Award.
And while Garner and McConaughey’s on-screen chemistry can’t be doubted, their relationship has always been platonic.
Earlier this month, the Greenlights author revealed why he’s never dated any of the many women he’s starred alongside.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--What To Eat First Thing In The Morning To Reduce Anxiety

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Millions of people live with an anxiety disorder – and during the pandemic, those numbers may be even higher. While there’s no cure for anxiety, there are a number of ways to manage it, including therapy, medication and lifestyle changes like getting better sleep, exercising and improving your diet.
What you do in the morning sets the tone for the rest of your day — and that includes what you put on your plate. We asked experts which foods they recommend people with anxiety eat for breakfast to set them up for a calmer, healthier day ahead.
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1. Avocado
If you’re in a hurry, Feller recommends mashing avocado slices on rustic bread with a dash of cumin, black pepper and kosher salt. If you have more time, she suggests filling half an avocado with an egg, baking until the whites are firm and topping it with hot sauce for an added kick.
Katarzyna Halat/EyeEm via Getty Images Avocados and eggs are two foods experts say may help ease anxiety. Combine them in avocado egg boats.
2. Eggs
When eating eggs, don’t ditch the yolks: that yellowy-orange centre contains minerals like choline and zinc, which have been associated with lower anxiety levels. Conversely, a zinc deficiency has been “shown to induce depression-like and anxiety-like behaviours,” according to a 2010 scientific review.
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Two eggs contain 12g of protein, which helps stabilise blood sugar. Avoiding a blood sugar spike and crash is key, as it causes the body to pump out hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which can exacerbate anxiety.
Scrambled or sunny-side-up eggs may be your go-tos, but Feller suggests changing things up by making a breakfast quesadilla. “[Use] a stone-ground tortilla, spinach, cheese, onion and tomato sprinkled with a touch of smoked paprika,” she said.
Another option? Shakshuka — a Mediterranean baked egg dish with tomato, herbs and vegetables. “The tomatoes and herbs also provide fibre that’s great for the health of your microbiome and additional nutrients,” said Samantha Elkrief, a therapist, holistic health coach and chef.
BURCU ATALAY TANKUT via Getty Images Yogurt contains probiotics that may improve gut health and, in turn, reduce anxiety.
3. Yoghurt
Researchers in a 2015 study found a link between the consumption of probiotic foods — such as yoghurt — and a reduction in social anxiety. “There is a link between the gut and the brain that continues to be researched,” Feller said. “Consuming foods that promote beneficial bacteria is thought to be supportive of both gut and brain health.”
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For example, the vast majority of serotonin receptors are located in the lining of the gut. A deficiency in serotonin may lead to anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions, underscoring the importance of the gut-brain connection.
Opt for strained yoghurt — the thicker kind, like Greek yoghurt — that contains fat and more protein than regular yogurt to keep you satiated. Check the ingredients label for “live active cultures” — and “lactobacillus acidophilus” specifically — to ensure you’re getting those probiotic benefits.
“Try topping your bowl of yogurt with hulled hemp seeds, bee pollen, and pistachios, all of which are excellent sources of fibre and heart-healthy fats,” Feller said.
kajakiki via Getty Images The omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
4. Salmon
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“Salmon is anti-inflammatory and a good source of protein, too,” Elkrief said. “Pair with eggs for a healthy, hearty, nutrient-dense meal.”
5. Porridge
Complex carbohydrates, like oats, are digested more slowly than simple carbohydrates, like pastries. They’ll keep you full while also helping you maintain that steady blood sugar curve.
“Not only are you starting your day with a hefty dose of micronutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and B6, but this fibre-rich dish will also help to keep you satiated longer and support level blood sugars throughout the day,” Feller said.
You can enjoy your porridge hot or cold, depending on what you’re in the mood for. “Opt for chilled overnight oats with two tablespoons of chia seeds, cinnamon and choice of plant-based milk,” Feller said. “Or cozy up with a warm bowl of oats topped with almond butter, banana, cocoa nibs, and a soft dusting of cardamom.”
Julia Murray / EyeEm via Getty Images A berry smoothie with leafy greens, nut butter and yogurt packs a powerful nutritional punch that may also help manage anxiety.
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6. Berries
Blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are all rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that may help reduce anxiety levels and improve mood, some small studies have indicated.
One way to get your vitamin C boost and a nutrient-dense meal to boot: Whip up a smoothie with berries, leafy greens (which contain magnesium), nut butter (for protein) and pumpkin seeds (for zinc), Elkrief recommended.
“The smoothie is rich in fibre and protein to help with maintaining steady blood sugar, all the ingredients are anti-inflammatory and you can add unsweetened yogurt or kefir for the additional benefits fermented foods provide to the microbiome and mood,” she said.
Foods That Could Make Anxiety Worse
You don’t have to banish these foods from your diet altogether. Enjoying them from time to time is just fine, but consider minimising your intake.
Refined carbohydrates
Again, foods that cause that sharp blood sugar spike and subsequent crash are ones to avoid if you have anxiety. These include cereals and beverages high in added sugar and baked goods made from refined grains.
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“Drastic drops in glucose levels often mirror symptoms of anxiety, so be mindful of the foods that cause these symptoms,” Feller said.
Plus, diets high in sugar tend to be less nutrient-dense, Elkrief said, “which means folks are missing out on the opportunity to eat foods that can support their brain health and mood.”
Coffee and energy drinks
The caffeine in these beverages can lead to restlessness and increased heart rate, which are also symptoms of anxiety. So they’re best consumed in moderation.
“Folks with anxiety are also more vulnerable to worsening symptoms from caffeine consumption,” Elkrief said. “Caffeine and energy drinks can also have a negative impact on sleep, which can worsen symptoms of anxiety.”
We all tolerate what we eat and drink differently, so some people may be more or less sensitive to the effects of caffeine or sugar. Figure out what works best for you.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--15 Tech Gifts And Gadgets That'll Impress This Christmas

HuffPost UK
HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Prices and availability subject to change.
Why should it just be the kids who get to play with new toys at Christmas? We’ve rounded up 15 tech gifts and gadgets that adults in the family will love.
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This isn’t a list of the latest phones, laptops or tablets to peruse, because let’s face it, most tech-heads will buy their own (or direct you to the exact one they want) anyway.
Instead, here’s a list of fun, alternative gifts they might not have thought about – from an electronic wine opener to a neck massaging pillow.
Glowstone Glowstone
Know a tea or coffee addict? The Glowstone smart mugs are designed to keep your brew at the optimal temperature and have a light bar indicator that shines to reveal the ideal heat. Each mug comes with wireless charging and is dishwasher safe.
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Fujifilm's Instax Fujifilm's Instax
Fujifilm’s Instax cameras are the perfect antidote to Instagram culture. If you know someone who spends hours pondering over filters, the snap and print fun could be just what they need. The camera includes a flash and “selfie mode”.
Lumi Lumi
Lumi clocks are designed to mimic natural light, with sunrise and sunset programmes that’ll transform your morning and evening routines. The Bodyclock Shine 300 also features a range of soothing alarms, from birdsong to kitten purring.
Redison Redison
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Know someone in need of a new hobby? Senstroke’s Bluetooth drum sensor technology turns your environment into your own personal drum kit. You can use couch cushions as your snare, textbooks as your tom, and your own two feet to kick the bass and hi-hat.
Fitbit
The new Fitbit Versa 3 could be a great upgrade for the fitness fan in your life. Available in three colours, the watch has all the tracking features you’d expect, with built in GPS and 20+ exercise modes and music experiences to keep you moving.
Cheer Moda via Amazon Cheer Moda via Amazon,
A fun gift for anyone who struggles with a traditional corkscrew (no judgment here). This battery-operated electric opener allows you to effortlessly open bottles at the touch of a button.
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CLCKR
CLCKR’s phone case stands allow you to video call handsfree, watch Netflix, see your favourite recipe or workout at home without propping your phone up against a water bottle. They work in portrait or landscape and come in a variety of colours and sizes to fix to different phones.
HidrateSpark HidrateSpark
This smart water bottle tracks your water intake and lights up to remind you to drink through the free Hidrate app, powered by Bluetooth. It’ll make a good gift for anyone trying to stay healthy in 2021.
Amazon Amazon
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When you google “smart coffee machines”, the Hamilton Beach consistently appears among the most recommended. The machine can be paired with the Alexa app, and you can create a programme for “wake-up ready” coffee. You can also turn on or off, start brewing, or change brew strength from your phone.
Argos
For a loved one with neck ache after working from home for most of the year, this pillow will be a Godsend. It delivers a rolling neck massage, designed to gently ease away the tension in the neck.
Night Sports USA via Amazon
For golfers determined to stay out once the sun sets, these light up balls will be a welcome surprise. Each ball contains a bright LED light that stays active for eight minutes upon impact and re-triggers with each hit, so you can always finish your game.
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Bose via John Lewis Bose
These headphones are moisture-resistant for high-impact, outdoor exercise in all weathers, making them the perfect gift for people making do without their beloved gym this winter.
Tooltime UK Ltd via Amazon Tooltime UK Ltd via Amazon
End arguments over the heating by getting this rechargeable hot water bottle for loved ones who are always cold. It takes less than 15 minutes to charge and retains heat for up to six hours.
Foreo via House of Fraser Foreo via House of Fraser
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This one’s for friends and family who like to make their beauty routine high-tech. The electronic face brush pulsates against the skin and is designed to unclog pores and clear away dirt and excess oil.
HuffPost UK John Lewis


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--I Had Plastic Surgery At 17. Now I Feel Like I Let Myself Down

HuffPost UK The author, Mollie
I can’t remember the cute button nose I had before I first broke my nose when I was four.
I know from photos it was the dainty kind that scoops up at the end. And I remember running my finger over the top of my nose each morning as a child, as if whilst I slept all signs of a break had disappeared – and my insecurities with it.
I was born with a large helping of sinus problems from both of my parents, and having broken my nose twice before the age of 11, anything to do with that central point on my face was a contentious topic. I had always been told that I would need surgery on my sinuses as soon as I stopped growing. My grandfather would often try to make me feel better when I cried over how ugly it was by saying I inherited his strong Roman nose. But I knew he was only saying that to make me feel better. A Roman nose was powerful and strong – mine was bumpy and crooked.
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Life with a large nose didn’t get any easier. I was taunted and teased by every one of my peers at school for having a feature that I already knew myself was less than desirable. Some boys in my class nicknamed me ‘Novis’ as a play on my surname, and I cried myself to sleep many times. I was already a stick thin 5ft 8in 12-year-old that was yet to get her braces. The only curve God had graced me with throughout my teens was on my nose – right in plain sight, where I didn’t want it.
“The surgeon held my head in his hands and pressed at my nose with his thumbs before he said: 'You’d look so much prettier without that bumpy nose.'”
As a teen, I learned to accept that my nose was simply just the way it is and snap back at my bullies with wit. I learned what kind of lighting made my schnoz look smaller and what angles worked best. And thanks to heroines like Meryl Streep and Barbra Streisand, I finally became happy to be known for being beautiful because of my nose. In some way, I was finally glad that it stood out.
A few months after my 16th birthday I received a phone call to let me know that a cancellation had come up for my impending sinus surgery, and that I’d be going in for a full reconstruction on the inside of my nose for the sinus problems that had plagued me since birth. I was glad that I’d finally (hopefully) be able to breathe.
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I’d known the surgeon since I was a little girl, and he’s known for being up there with the best in his field. I trusted him and his judgement, and always felt he had my best interests at heart. He held my head in his hands and pressed at my nose with his thumbs before tilting my head left to right, up and down, and said “you’d look so much prettier without that bumpy nose.” He offered me the option to have a full rhinoplasty at the same time. I knew he only had my best intentions at heart.
But my heart sunk. I suddenly felt exactly how I had not a few months prior. The sadness caused by the confirmation that others definitely saw what I did was quickly overturned with excitement that I’d soon be pretty.
I quickly agreed.
“Even though I’m acutely aware I was pressured into surgery, my life has been easier for it.”
And I must admit, he did a pretty damn good job. The bruising under my eyes was minimal and my nose looked like it really did belong on my face, nothing like you see on a horror reality programme. I fell in love with my nose, showing it off at any given opportunity. Telling people I had had a nose job was my fun fact and became something I was known for.
Years later in my early twenties, things are slightly different. Do I love my new nose? Certainly. But I feel an immense feeling of anger towards myself for allowing others to tap into my insecurities enough to mould what I categorised as beautiful and ugly. I had succumbed to a permanent form of a ‘makeover’ – one that couldn’t be reversed and came with the possibility of many complications.
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There is a feeling of shame within me that I walk around with something that now makes me so proud and confident, but is ‘fake’. Sadness that one of the things I now love about how I look isn’t the ‘real’ me. Although it was only the bump that was taken off, I can’t help but feel embarrassed that I allowed myself to base my beauty and worth on a broken bone, and sadness that I, a child, was made to feel that way.
I hate to admit it, but having septorhinoplasty probably has done me favours, I’ve been able to meet guys with confidence, and don’t feel I have to angle my head a certain way in photos to avoid capturing my nose in its true form – and if I could go back, I would still do it again. Even though I’m acutely aware I was pressured into surgery, my life has been easier for it, as I now fall into a category of what society has decided is pretty. Everybody from my surgeon to my friends acknowledge that I look better with my ‘new nose’, and I know they all say it with kindness.
I just wish I had been strong enough at the time to decide the better option was to embrace something that, later in life, I would realise gave me character.
Mollie Davies is a freelance journalist. Follow her on Twitter at @MollieDavies3


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--The 8 Rookie Errors Of Lockdown Life We Won't Be Making Again

I’ll resist drunken impulse purchases
John Johnston, senior video producer: “I love football. During lockdown one, I missed football. Instead of talking football, our friends took to sharing the new kit reveals – a tiny thread of life to cling to as we all sat at home. This, mixed with boozy zoom calls, ever-less-enjoyable pub quizzes and the festering realisation that loungewear was my look for the remainder of 2020 saw me treat myself to some “because you deserve happiness” football shirts. Not Premier League, mind, but European ones. Chic. Cosmopolitan. Refined. Doesn’t matter that I’ve never actually watched a Bundesliga game. Or Serie A, since the glory days of Football Italia. Now, here I am in lockdown two with a plethora of football shirts bought in a drunken haze that I’d never wear outside as a 35-year-old male who tries to foster the idea he’s not a man child. And why did I think getting Müller emblazoned on one of them was a classy move?”
I’ll try and be loads more creative
Amy Packham, life editor: “I have a bullet journal and for three years before lockdown, I religiously drew/wrote/doodled in it every single week. I marked out big plans and things that had happened in my life so I could look back and remember. But when lockdown hit, I lost all my creativity and have struggled to get it back. I didn’t write about anything – not even the small bits of joy we found each day – and left my journal to one side with all my colourful pencils. I think it would’ve been nice to look back on how I felt, however weird that time was, so I’m determined to find some creativity and pick it up again soon!”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--How Covid Travels In The Air And What You Can Do About It

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It’s long been suspected that the virus that causes Covid-19 could survive in aerosol droplets – tiny particles that linger in the air long after we talk, cough or sneeze – and then infect other people when they breathe them in.
If the virus is living in the air – and potentially travelling distances to infect people – it would be considered “airborne”. This is quite a big deal, as it shifts the measures we use to try and prevent the virus from spreading.
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Is Covid-19 airborne?
Airborne transmission is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as the spread of an infectious agent caused by the dissemination of aerosols that remain infectious when suspended in air over long distances and time.
In official circles, SARS-CoV-2 has not yet been confirmed as airborne. However there appears to be growing consensus among some scientists that it is. In July, 239 scientists penned an open letter to WHO warning against underestimating the possibility of airborne transmission.
WHO agrees airborne transmission of the virus can occur during medical procedures that generate aerosols – for example, intubating a Covid-19 patient. But it’s in the process of evaluating whether SARS-CoV-2 may also spread through aerosols in other places, such as indoor settings with poor ventilation. It said the matter of it being airborne “cannot be ruled out”.
Some studies have shown the virus can linger in the air for up to three hours. But one of the major caveats of such studies is that the aerosols are generated using high-powered jet nebulisers under controlled laboratory conditions – this doesn’t reflect normal human cough conditions.
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Recently, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) posted an update on its website acknowledging the virus that causes Covid-19 could be airborne, but U-turned a few days later. The CDC said a draft version of proposed changes had been “posted in error”.
Ponomariova_Maria via Getty Images
Can I catch Covid-19 from aerosols?
Modelling of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in confined spaces, published in the journal Physics of Fluids, suggests that while it isn’t without it’s risks, the chances of catching Covid-19 from aerosols are probably pretty low.
Doctors at the University of Amsterdam’s Van der Waals-Zeeman Institute used laser technology to measure the distribution of droplets released when people speak or cough. Test subjects spoke or coughed into a laser beam, and a jet nozzle was used to mimic tiny aerosol micro-droplets. Researchers then measured how droplets spread and how likely they are to pass along the virus.
While the lingering micro-droplets aren’t risk-free, due to their small size, they contain less virus than the larger droplets produced when someone coughs, speaks, or sneezes directly on us, said Daniel Bonn, one of the authors.
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If someone enters a space even a few minutes after a mildly symptomatic carrier of the coronavirus has coughed in that area, the probability of infection is “rather low,” said researchers, and it’s even lower if that person was only talking.
Bonn said the findings suggest aerosol-wise that it’s “relatively safe” to go into well-ventilated modern buildings, such as airports, train stations and offices, as “modern ventilation makes the aerosol infection risk not very large”.
All Royalty-Free licenses include global use rights. via Getty Images
Commenting on the study, Dr Julian Tang, a consultant virologist at Leicester Royal Infirmary, points out that there are studies involving influenza virus that suggest smaller aerosolised particles can carry more virus than larger droplets per unit volume.
“The study does not exclude aerosol transmission,” he adds, “but I think there are too many assumptions to interpret this further to say that it is, or is not, predominant nor efficient as a route of transmission of Covid-19.”
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Professor Ashley Woodcock, who works in respiratory medicine at the University of Manchester, is convinced aerosols don’t play a part in Covid-19 transmission. “I’m not a modeller,” he tells HuffPost UK. “I’m a respiratory doctor, I’m an academic, and I’m completely convinced that aerosols are irrelevant.”
Prof Woodcock says viruses like measles and chickenpox, which are spread in aerosols, have a far higher R0 value than coronavirus. The R0 value of measles is 12-18, while the R0 value of coronavirus is around 2.63. The higher the R0 value, the more infectious a virus is considered to be.
“Secondly, in confined spaces like aeroplanes, there have been virtually no cases of transmission,” he says. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has identified 44 Covid-19 cases linked to flights since the beginning of 2020, out of roughly 1.2 billion passengers who travelled during that time. It’s worth noting however that planes do have very effective filtration systems.
He believes the main way the virus is spreading is through surface contact and that there needs to be a bigger focus on washing hands; not touching faces; and cleaning homes, schools, shops and hospitals.
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How can I stay safe?
If you’re worried about exposure to the virus from air droplets, aerosol scientists in the US have made a series of recommendations on how to stay safer indoors. The main message is to avoid, or reduce as much as possible, situations that would mean you’re inhaling exhaled air from other people.
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This means avoiding crowded spaces; practising social distancing; avoiding low ventilation environments and long durations in such places; avoiding places where people don’t wear masks; avoiding loud talking, shouting and singing; and avoiding places where there are high breathing rates (the scientists use indoor aerobic exercise as an example).
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Once a virus escapes into the air inside a building, you have two options, said Professor Shelly Miller, an expert in mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder: you either bring in fresh air from outside or remove the virus from the air inside the building.
The safest indoor space is one that constantly has outdoor air replacing stale indoor air, she said. So, a space where windows and doors are open, or where heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are in operation. “In any room, the more people inside, the faster the air should be replaced,” she wrote in a piece for The Conversation.
In the United States, the CDC recommends air purifiers as a preventative measure for Covid-19, stating “when used properly, air purifiers can help reduce airborne contaminants, including viruses, in a home or confined space”.
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Not all air purifiers are created equal, though, and scientists advise keeping an eye out for filter effectiveness – High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can remove most particle sizes from the air, but it’s not a failsafe solution.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--8 Dreamy Work From Home Set-Ups To Inspire Your Desk Space

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Going stir-crazy staring at the same four walls working from home? You’re not the only one, pal. Another day not in the office, another day working hard at our make-shift desk set-ups.
Some of us are lucky enough to have pets for colleagues, others face the challenges of having kids running around in the background during important work video calls. Not everyone has a separate room they can transform into a home office – or even a proper desk to work from, for that matter. It’s tough.
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But there’s a lot you can do to revamp your desk set-up – even in small spaces. We’ve gathered the best office ideas from Instagram, which will inspire you to design a work-friendly space in your home, now we’re working there for the foreseeable future.
Keep things super simple and clean. Opt for a sleek setup with hints of tan brown for a subtle colour coordination look. Invest in a good comfy desk chair like this one and your back will thank you.
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Adding light to your set-up can create a warm glowing ambience and change the mood while you’re working.
Not only that, it adds a pop of colour and a fun design.
Let there be natural light! Reposition your desk to ensure maximum natural daylight and vitamin D comes through, which in turn, can boost mood and help with productivity.
Plus, bits of sunrays peeping through makes everything look better and brighter.
Go back in time to the good old days. Adding vintage and antique touches can make the space look more refined and give it a character.
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A retro wooden desk can be the main focal point – add some cool framed drawings and a comfy cushion, and you’re good to go.
Pegboards are everywhere at the moment – and with good reason.
They’re a practical storage solution for everyday items, letting you display them proudly, incorporating them as a part of the design.
Plants are crucial for an Insta-worthy set-up, if Instagram is anything to go by. The key? Squeeze as many plants as you can possibly find into the space.
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Adding some leafy green friends to your desk can help lower stress and anxiety levels.
Introducing a bright colour scheme into your workspace is a guaranteed way to turn that frown upside down.
Play around with different colours of the rainbow and find the perfect palette that complements each other.
No space? No problem. Turn awkward, tight corners (or the space under your stairs) into a WFH corner. A stylish solution, which is a great equaliser for design and helps you tackle these dead zones.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--This Is What Melanoma Skin Cancer Looks Like

SkinVision This is what melanoma can look like.
In the UK around 16,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year, making it the fifth most common cancer.
Sadly, some 2,300 die from it every year. And this is only predicted to rise.
Cancer Research UK projects there could be around 26,500 new cases of melanoma – the more deadly type of skin cancer – by 2038-2040.
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Dermatologists from the British Association of Dermatologists’ Skin Cancer Prevention Committee want the public to check their skin for signs of skin cancer and raise any concerns with their GP immediately.
So what do you need to look out for?
What exactly is melanoma?
There are two main types of skin cancer: melanoma, which is less common but more serious, as it can spread to other organs in the body; and non-melanoma, the more common type of skin cancer.
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer that can appear anywhere on the body but, according to the British Skin Foundation, is most commonly found on men’s backs and women’s legs.
It starts in cells in the skin called melanocyte, while non-melanoma slowly develops in the upper layers of the skin.
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The cancer can develop from existing moles, but in 70% of cases appears as new marks on the skin – as such, experts recommend doing a skin check once a month.
Deaths from melanoma skin cancer in the UK have risen by 150% since the 1970s, according to Cancer Research UK.
Although, melanoma is still most common in those aged 65 and over, young people are increasingly at risk – rates for 25 to 49-year-olds have increased by 70% since the 1990s.
What does melanoma look like?
The most common symptom of melanoma is a new mole or changes to an existing mole. In most cases, melanomas have an irregular shape and are more than one colour.
It’s helpful to remember the A-B-C-D rule when assessing your moles. Take note if there is:
Asymmetry: the two halves of the area differ in shape.
Border: the edges of the area may be irregular or blurred, and sometimes show notches.
SkinVision Examples of confirmed melanomas.
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Colour: this may be uneven. Different shades of black, brown and pink may be seen.
Diameter: most melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. They tend to be larger than your other moles and can sometimes be itchy or bleed.
SkinVision Examples of confirmed melanomas.
Some apps let you take photos of your moles to check whether you need to see your GP.
With the SkinVision app, for example, you can take a photo of your mole with your phone and within 30 seconds the app’s AI algorithm indicates the level of risk of skin cancer and recommend the next steps to take (the app provided HuffPost UK with photos of confirmed melanoma for the purpose of this piece).
But some studies urge caution when using such apps. One published in the BMJ warned that algorithm-based smartphone apps cannot be relied on to detect all cases of melanoma or other skin cancers.
Ultimately, if you have a dodgy mole, you should get it checked out by a GP. If your doctor suspects you may have melanoma, they may take photos to send to a specialist and refer you to a dermatology clinic for further testing within two weeks of your initial GP’s appointment.
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SkinVision Examples of confirmed melanomas.ma
Why is melanoma on the rise?
The main reason for the rise in deaths from melanoma since the 1970s is the UK’s ageing population, Dr Bav Shergill previously told HuffPost UK.
However other factors such as increased affordability and availability of foreign holidays, the enduring fashion for tanned skin, and the popularity of sun beds also play a part. Figures show that if the cancer is caught early, 91% will survive the disease for five years or more.
“Early detection is vital for successful treatment of skin cancer,” said Dr Shergill.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--BAME Tory MPs Urged To Mentor People From Their Backgrounds To Boost Diversity In Westminster'

Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) Tory politicians should step up to create a group to help people from their backgrounds get into politics and boost diversity in Westminster, a former special adviser has said.
Jamie Njoku-Goodwin, who was health secretary Matt Hancock’s aide, made the call in an interview with HuffPost UK in which he highlighted the lack of diversity in Westminster by revealing he was regularly confused with New Statesman political editor Stephen Bush.
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On one occasion, an MP even delivered an attack briefing to him thinking he was Bush, who is also mixed-race.
Njoku-Goodwin told the Commons People podcast that Tory politicians should set up a body along the lines of Theresa May’s Women2Win to boost diversity in Westminster, and perhaps avoid such embarrassing occasions in future.
Like May’s organisation, it could help people who don’t have the “connections, networks and experience” and would benefit from someone mentoring them who “had gone through what they’d gone through”.
Njoku-Goodwin is now the chief executive of UK Music, which this week published a 10-point plan to boost diversity in the music industry.
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The report highlights the importance that people from BAME backgrounds place on having mentors to help them get into certain industries.
And Njoku-Goodwin argued that this could be applied to Westminster, and the Tory Party in particular, with Women2Win as a blueprint.
The group was co-founded in 2005 by the former PM – then an opposition frontbencher – when there were just 17 Conservative women MPs.
Now after 15 years and four elections there are 87 female Tories, which the group still acknowledges is “not enough”.
Meanwhile, there are 65 BAME MPs in parliament, but only 22 of them are Conservative, despite the party holding more than half of all seats in the Commons.
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Njoku-Goodwin revealed his experience of being mixed up with Bush for the first time on HuffPost UK’s Commons People podcast.
Former special adviser and UK Music chief executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin. UK Music
“He’s a brilliant writer, he’s one of the smartest people I’d ever met,” he said.
“But it was interesting because it was just people who would sort of see me, see him and would think we (are) the same.
“There was a case when an MP came up to slag someone off to me thinking he was briefing against someone and actually not realising he was speaking to a Tory special adviser.”
He went on: “It often happened in Westminster and it was partly an indictment of how un-diverse a place it sometimes was.”
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Njoku-Goodwin said UK Music’s workforce diversity survey showed “the importance of mentoring” for BAME people in the industry, and “not just having role models” but people who “had their experience and felt comfortable having those conversations with”.
He told HuffPost UK’s Commons People podcast: “It’s been incredibly impressive how having a body, having some sort of group or organisation that’s dedicated to improving representation among women has benefited the Conservaitve Party massively.
“I think you’d struggle to find anybody who doesn’t think Women2Win hasn’t been a huge positive for the Conservative Party.
“It would be great to see something along the same lines for people from ethnic minorities.
“Because one of the problems people from ethnic minorities face is - I know plenty of people... who are from an ethnic minority, are doing incredibly well in the world of business, charity, teachers, who are interested in public affairs, current affairs, politics but don’t really know what they would need to do if they wanted to become involved and become engaged.
“And yeah having some sort of body or some sort of organisation along the lines of Women2Win to help provide those mentoring opportunities and really help people get into politics would be good for the Conservative Party and good for politics as a whole.”
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UK Music’s report shows a huge increase in women and BAME backgrounds entering the industry since 2016, but warns that these are mainly being concentrated in junior roles and there is still a lack of representation at senior level.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--How Labour's Day Of Reckoning On Anti-Semitism Unfolded

Thousands chanted his name at Glastonbury when the “youthquake” election of 2017 saw him almost topple Theresa May.
Just a few short months ago, he was leader of HM Opposition and candidate to be prime minister of the United Kingdom.
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Now, Jeremy Corbyn faces being the first Labour leader since Ramsay MacDonald to be thrown out of the party.
And because what some tonight call his “callous denialism” in the wake of the Equality and Human Rights Commission’s report on anti-Semitism, the now-independent MP for Islington North is left with few allies and nobody to blame but himself.
Here’s how this extraordinary day in British politics unfolded and what it all means.
It began at 10am when the equality watchdog, established by Tony Blair’s government in 2006, published its long-awaited report.
While it did not rule that Labour was institutionally anti-Semitic, it found the party under Corbyn was guilty of breaking the law on equality.
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Two bombshell findings stood out: Labour had harassed and discriminated against Jewish people and there had been political interference from Corbyn’s office in complaints.
It was a sombre moment for “the party of equality” as EHRC chair Caroline Waters told reporters of “inexcusable” failures, which “appeared to be a result of a lack of willingness to tackle anti-Semitism”.
Starmer, ever the lawyer, had carefully designed a statement to mark the event’s gravity – “it is a day of shame” – and set out a roadmap for how Labour would act.
But minutes before his statement, deputy leader Angela Rayner was trying to stop Corbyn and his team from sending out a statement on Facebook which flew in the face of the reports findings and said anti-Semitism was “dramatically overstated for political reasons”.
She failed and within minutes general secretary David Evans had suspended Corbyn.
It “can come as no surprise”, one source close to Starmer told HuffPost UK, after the leadership and Evans warned MPs anyone who undermined the EHRC report could face action.
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Whether Corbyn discovered his fate via a photographer, or as the party claims, via correspondence following talks, is unclear.
At 2.45pm, Evans and Rayner informed the party’s regional directors, most of whom were appointed during the Corbyn era, via a Zoom call.
Evans told them “strenuous efforts” were made to resolve the matter with Corbyn, which were “not successful”, while Rayner, who would later tell broadcasters Corbyn had a “blindspot” on anti-Semitism, warned directors to be professional.
A call for questions was met with stony silence. But elsewhere in country, one staffer from Newcastle said some members had already begun phoning to resign their membership.
The atmosphere at an emergency shadow cabinet meeting at 4pm was “anger, despair and disappointment” at Corbyn’s actions, with shadow ministers warned not to wade into rows.
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While the move might make internal party management difficult for Starmer, it will do him no harm with voters, particularly those in the red wall.
Tory chair Amanda Milling tried out a curious new attack line in a campaign email to supporters, given recent events, claiming that Starmer was “Corbyn’s man”.
Claiming Starmer “stood by Corbyn when it was politically convenient”, the keeness to link the two men gives away how heavily the Conservatives relied on ex-Labour voters’ dislike of Corbyn.
The ex-leader has vowed to “strongly contest the political intervention to suspend me”. Starmer flatly denies any involvement in Corbyn’s suspension, which was dealt with by the party’s governance unit, but has said he supports their decision.
What is striking is how few figures have emerged to defend Corbyn in the full-throated manner they have in the past.
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John McDonnell, who served as shadow chancellor throughout Corbyn’s tenure, described the suspension as “profoundly wrong” but urged “calm” among members.
The Socialist Campaign Group of MPs, which includes figures such as Richard Burgon said it “will work tirelessly for his reinstatement”, with little detail.
Len McCluskey called it a “grave injustice” and, rather tamely compared with the Unite boss’ usual form, urged Starmer to “unite the party”.
Tellingly, amid reports local Labour parties are haemorrhaging left-wing members, he also called on members “angered by this suspension not to leave the party”.
“This is what the left fear, a loss of influence,” said one source, pointing to upcoming elections for the National Executive Committee.
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Rumours had begun in Westminster of a breakaway party, but attempts by left-winger Howard Beckett to withdraw further Unite funding from Labour failed.
While many will be angry, others who have clashed with Corbyn on issues such as Brexit, and know a socialist breakaway party would fail, will be relieved to get a divorce from “Brand Corbyn”, as some feel he undermined their moral authority.
“They know micro parties are a waste of time and they are thinking about how they can fit into the future,” said one insider.
Or as Margaret Hodge, the Jewish Labour MP who repeatedly challenged Corbyn over his failings on anti-Semitism, put it he is “yesterday’s man”.
So what does it say about Starmer’s new leadership, and how, if elected, the former director of public prosecutions might run the country?
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One former adviser tried to sum it up: “Keir is really, really obsessed about rules. He lives his life by following the rules.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Labour Must Become A Home For Jewish People Again - It Starts With Listening

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For five years, anti-Semitism has become ever more interwoven with Labour’s factional struggles. In the Labour Party, attitudes to anti-Semitism are now almost a symbol of political allegiance, a stand-in for someone’s views on economic policy or foreign affairs.
I’ve seen this first-hand. When I interviewed for a job with Labour in 2016, I assumed, perhaps naively, that while I did not agree with Jeremy Corbyn on things like foreign policy, and was uncomfortable with some of his past associations, different views would be welcomed because the point of political parties is work together to win power.
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It quickly became apparent that judgement was wrong. As I worked with Corbyn and his team, I became acutely aware that some saw me not just in terms of my political or policy beliefs, but in terms of my Jewishness.
This was clear in both what they did and did not do. It was clear when, after discovering I was Jewish, an aide spent a two-hour train-ride quizzing me about my views on Israel, not as an equal participant in a conversation about foreign policy, but as an employee being tested to see if my views on Israel were the predicable views of a Jew. It was clear when despite repeatedly pushing for swift, clear and heartfelt condemnations of anti-Semitism, I found the few condemnations that were issued were never swift, clear, or it seemed to me, heartfelt.
Like many forms of prejudice, anti-Semitism does not always involve discernible and conscious hatred. Nobody except Jeremy Corbyn will ever know what was in his mind while he led the Labour Party. But that was never the point. The point was that time and again, he failed to grasp attempts to build bridges with the Jewish community, and stood by as his supporters dismissed and derided Jewish people who were clearly under attack, hurting ... heck, even afraid. Under his leadership, Labour failed to apply the basic principle that those who experience prejudice are generally best placed to identify and describe it.
The upshot was this. I came to realise that Jeremy Corbyn and some of his aides felt their identities as anti-racist campaigners made them immune to Europe’s most enduring and persistent form of hatred, and viewed those who raised concerns about anti-Semitism as insulting, dishonest, even pathetic. I felt something all too familiar to those who are used to being stereotyped – self-conscious and defensive about who I am, as if I had to work doubly hard to defend what I believe because I am Jewish.
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Even though being Jewish was not my primary identity, I had to listen to Corbyn and his team as a Jew, to read his words and watch his inaction through this new lens of anti-Semitism. It was strange, disorienting, and sometimes painful, but it was also instructive, and perhaps strangely, made me more proud than ever to live in a democracy that protects basic rights and freedoms, and more determined than ever to change the Labour Party.
Progressive parties should be a place where complex questions of identity and experience can be discussed, openly, with a sense of common purpose. We should be able to talk about the similarities and differences between anti-Black and anti-Jewish racism, and explore what it means to be white, Black, South Asian, or Jewish, in modern Britain.
Our country’s diversity is among its greatest strengths. Whether Labour members who prefer Keir Starmer or Jeremy Corbyn, or voters who chose Labour or Conservative, Remain or Leave, as citizens of a diverse and plural democracy, we all have a vested interest in working out how to live as free citizens who forge our common future together. Labour’s failure to address anti-Semitism didn’t just put off Jewish voters, it made citizens across the UK doubt Labour’s moral compass.
Labour now has an opportunity to make anti-Semitism a cross-factional issue. The release of the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) report is a moment not just for Keir Starmer to continue to demonstrate he is serious about anti-Semitism, it is a chance for all of us to explore together what anti-Semitism means, and how it does and does not relate to other forms of racism. These issues matter not just for the Labour Party, but for the country.
In Labour, we have to start by listening to each other, making space not only for what others believe but for how they feel. When there has been so much hurt and distrust, we must all find the courage and respect to ensure we don’t slide into tired factional debates, and the energy and patience to share experiences and develop a common language. Those who refuse to talk and listen and engage should have no place in the Labour Party.
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Making Labour a home for Jewish people again will be a long and often uncomfortable road, but I believe it can and must be done. It will require Jews and non-Jews who have left Labour to engage with energy and determination, to do the hard civic work of repairing the damage that has been done – to attend meetings, to vote, and to run. Achieving that goal is not just a political imperative, but a moral one.
Josh Simons is a former Labour Party staffer who worked in Jeremy Corbyn’s leader’s office, and quit over anti-Semitism. He then worked in Labour HQ.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--West Yorkshire To Move Into Tier 3 Coronavirus Lockdown On Monday

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West Yorkshire is the latest place to be put under tier 3 lockdown restrictions amid surging Covid-19 cases.
The new rules will come into force at 12.01am on Monday.
The news was confirmed by Leeds City Council leader Judith Blake at a press conference on Thursday.
It comes amid a second wave of coronavirus infections in the region, with local leaders warning that there are already 268 Covid-19 patients in Leeds’ hospitals – more than there were during the first surge in infections in spring.
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According to government data, there were 3,066 new cases in Leeds between October 20 and October 27, giving the area an infection rate of 386.6 per 100,000 people.
But the city’s director of public health, Victoria Eaton, said that this figure had already risen to 416.7 per 100,000 people.
A support package of £46.6m has been negotiated with the government for the region, in addition to the tier 2 funding already agreed, Leeds City Council’s chief executive Tom Riordan told the meeting.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Khloe Kardashian On Backlash To Kim's 40th Birthday: 'This Is A Frustrating Year'

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Khloe Kardashian responded to the backlash her sister Kim is receiving on social media for her 40th birthday extravaganza, saying the private-island party was a “beautiful experience” that shouldn’t be overshadowed by haters.
The younger Kardashian sibling appeared on Ellen DeGeneres’ show on Thursday to discuss a plethora of happenings and was asked about her sister getting roasted on Twitter for saying she had flown family and friends to a private island to celebrate her birthday.
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Kim’s remarks were memeified, mocked and torn apart for their insensitivity to those suffering during the coronavirus pandemic.
After 2 weeks of multiple health screens and asking everyone to quarantine, I surprised my closest inner circle with a trip to a private island where we could pretend things were normal just for a brief moment in time. pic.twitter.com/cIFP7Nv5bV — Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) October 27, 2020
Khloe told Ellen she hadn’t “heard a lot about” the uproar, but did know that “people were upset that we all went out of town.”
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“I don’t really know the extent of it, but this year is a frustrating year,” she told the host. “I get it. I think there’s so many frustrations going on for everybody. But also it’s her 40th. This is something that she wanted to do for us. It was such a nice thing.”
Khloe went on to say that family members and their friends took precautions against the coronavirus in their travels and were “grateful” for the experience.
“So many people said that we were their first party of guests that they’ve had in months and what it’s done for them to be able to pay their bills or to be able to do stuff for their family,” she said. “Just hearing those messages when we were there, we felt really good and we felt so safe. We did it in the safest way I could imagine someone doing it.”
Khloe said she hopes her sister will “focus on just how beautiful it was and what she did for everybody.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Mariah Carey Decrees Whether Or Not It's Too Early To Listen To All I Want For Christmas Is You

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While many people have been indulging in a bit of festiveness two months before Christmas, it seems that is too early for even the Queen of Christmas herself Mariah Carey.
The singer has settled the argument once and for all by declaring it is premature to be listening to her festive smash, All I Want For Christmas Is You.
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On Thursday, one Mariah fan tweeted a graph from Google Trends that shows how people are already searching for her song on the internet.
The Queen Of Christmas Mariah Carey Vevo
“It’s happening,” @MikeNicolella excitedly wrote.
But Mariah was having none of it, sharing the tweet with the caption: “Not yet.”
While we’d personally forgive anyone for needing to listen to All I Want For Christmas right now (because, ya know, 2020), Mariah’s hesitation might have something to do with how she usually likes to kick off the festive season on 1 November.
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Last year, Mariah uploaded a suitably ridiculous video on social media heralding the official start of Christmas.
In the clip, Mariah is seen going to sleep – in full make-up, of course – at 11.59pm on 31 October, only to be woken up a minute later to a phone call from Santa himself, sporting new hair and some festive pyjamas with her own face on them.
“Santa!” Mariah then excitedly declared down the phone. “It’s tiiiiiiime!”
With only two days to go, we can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve for 2020.
Last year saw All I Want For Christmas Is You turn the grand old age of 25, with it also hitting number one in the US for the first time ever.
Meanwhile, Mariah has also got fans speculating she has a new festive hit lined-up after tweeting a curious picture last month.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Test And Trace Only Catches A Quarter Of Covid Infections, Major Study Reveals

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The number of daily coronavirus infections in England could be almost four times higher than is currently being reported, according to the latest major study.
Over 85,000 volunteers were tested in England between October 16 and 25 as part of the REACT survey run by Imperial College London and Ipsos MORI.
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Their report, published on Thursday, suggests there are 96,000 new infections per day – significantly higher than the 23,065 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus in the wider UK confirmed by the Department of Health on the same day, suggesting the government’s much-criticised test and trace system is only detecting around a quarter of people catching the virus.
The report also showed the coronavirus R rate in England has jumped to 1.6 and the number of infections is doubling every nine days.
The findings further show infections continue to rise across all age groups and all regions in England, with the biggest increase in those aged 55 to 64.
According to the survey, an average 1.28% of people during the 10 days of the study tested positive, up from 60 per 10,000 in the previous study. Taking into account the predicted 75% sensitivity of the tests, the authors estimate that at any time that means 960,000 people – 1.71% – in England are infected.
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The highest number of infections, according to the report, remain in the north-west, Yorkshire and The Humber.
Professor Paul Elliott, director of the programme at Imperial from the School of Public Health, said the results “paint a concerning picture of the situation in England”.
“We’re seeing a nationwide increase in infection prevalence, which we know will lead to more hospitalisations and loss of life,” he said.
“We’re also detecting early signs that areas which previously had low rates of infection are following trends observed in the country’s worst-affected areas.”
The study states that 1.28% of the population is likely to test positive, which translates to 960,000 people on the basis that 75% of tests are likely to pick up a true positive.
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Assum the virus on average can be detected for 10 days after initial infection, this corresponds to 96,000 new infections per day.
On Friday, the government estimated the R-rate to be between 1.2 and 1.4. But the REACT study, commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care, found it was at 1.6.
The percentage of people infected aged 55 to 64 increased more than threefold from 0.37% to 1.2%, but infections remain highest in those aged 18 to 24 (2.2%).
It came as the government said a further 310 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday.
The government’s former chief scientific adviser, Professor Mark Walport, has also warned some 25,000 people could be in hospital with coronavirus by the end of next month if cases continue to rise.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--The Key Reactions To The Labour Anti-Semitism Report

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The investigation into anti-Semitism by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has found Labour responsible for unlawful acts of harassment and discrimination.
In its report, published on Thursday, the human rights watchdog said the party under Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership was guilty of three breaches of the Equality Act.
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The EHRC said Labour had allowed political interference in anti-Semitism complaints (resulting in pressure to treat some cases less harshly and others more harshly); had failed to provide adequate training to those handling anti-Semitism complaints; and had permitted harassment of Jewish members by two agents. There were also 18 “borderline” cases of “local councillors, local election candidates and Constituency Labour Party office holders” whose conduct could not be definitively shown to be the responsibility of the party; and “many more” where there was evidence of anti-Semitic conduct by ordinary members.
Here’s how the key players reacted to the findings.
Keir Starmer
Leader of the Labour Party Sir Keir Starmer leaves his home in London Leon Neal via Getty Images
Labour’s new leader said the report’s findings marked a “day of shame” for the party and said he was “truly sorry for all the pain and grief that has been caused”.
“We have failed Jewish people, our members, our supporters and the British public,” he said. “And so, on behalf of the Labour Party: I am truly sorry for all the pain and grief that has been caused.” Jeremy Corbyn
Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn PA
Jeremy Corbyn has been suspended from the Labour Party over his response to the EHRC report after he claimed the problem had been “dramatically overstated” by his political opponents.
A spokesperson for Labour said: “In light of his comments made today and his failure to retract them subsequently, the Labour Party has suspended Jeremy Corbyn pending investigation”.
In a statement about the report, Corbyn had written: “Anyone claiming there is no anti-Semitism in the Labour Party is wrong.
“Of course there is, as there is throughout society, and sometimes it is voiced by people who think of themselves as on the left.
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“Jewish members of our party and the wider community were right to expect us to deal with it, and I regret that it took longer to deliver that change than it should.
“One anti-Semite is one too many, but the scale of the problem was also dramatically overstated for political reasons by our opponents inside and outside the party, as well as by much of the media.”
Corbyn added: “That combination hurt Jewish people and must never be repeated.”
The former Labour leader has also had the whip removed from the Parliamentary Labour Party.
Starmer said he was “disappointed” in Corbyn’s statement in response to the report and he “fully supports” the decision to suspend him from the party.
He said: “We cannot say ‘zero tolerance’ and then turn a blind eye.”
On the day we should all be moving forward & taking all steps to fight antisemitism, the suspension of Jeremy Corbyn is profoundly wrong. In interests of party unity let’s find a way of undoing & resolving this. — John McDonnell MP (@johnmcdonnellMP) October 29, 2020
John McDonnell, who was shadow chancellor under Corbyn’s leadership, called the decision to suspend Corbyn “profoundly wrong”.
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He wrote on Twitter: “On the day we should all be moving forward & taking all steps to fight antisemitism, the suspension of Jeremy Corbyn is profoundly wrong. In interests of party unity let’s find a way of undoing & resolving this.”
McDonnell added: “I urge all party members to stay calm as that is the best way to support Jeremy and each other. Let’s all call upon the leadership to lift this suspension.”
Jennie Formby
General Secretary of the Labour Party Jennie Formby on stage during the Labour Party Conference at the Brighton Centre in Brighton. (Photo by Gareth Fuller/PA Images via Getty Images) Gareth Fuller - PA Images via Getty Images
The former general secretary of the Labour Party said that under her and Corbyn’s leadership, Labour’s processes for tackling anti-Semitism were transformed but “mistakes were made along the way”.
“But the record shows that as a result of the changes we made, Labour’s previously unfit processes were transformed, becoming more rapid, robust and more independent than any other political party,” she said on Twitter.
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“Under Jeremy Corbyn’s initiative, we brought reforms to conference which were passed by Labour members and affiliates that enabled rapid expulsions.
Jewish Labour Movement
The Jewish Labour Movement (JLM) said the report provided Jewish Labour members “with the relief that they have been seeking from the Labour Party, but which it failed, over five years, to offer”.
“Since 2015, we have consistently warned the Labour Party about a deepening casual culture of anti-Jewish racism, that saw Jewish Labour members and activists harassed and discriminated against,” the group said in a statement.
“Instead of listening to our growing concerns over the scale of the challenge, we were told that this racism was imagined, fabricated for factional advantage or intended to silence debate. Today’s report confirms that our voices were marginalised and our members victimised.”
Ephraim Mirvis
Britain's Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis PA
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The chief Rabbi said the report was a “historic nadir for the Labour Party”.
“The impact of this report reaches well beyond the issue of anti-Semitism or the Jewish community, by sending a powerful message that the politics of scapegoating and hatred will never succeed,” Mirvis said in a statement.
He said he was “encouraged” by Starmer’s commitment to change and his “recognition today that the Labour Party has failed Jewish people, its members, its supporters and the British public”.
He added: “Once again, I salute all those who came forward to share their concerns about the way that complaints about anti-Semitism were being handled in the party to which they had dedicated their lives, not least the whistleblowers, whose fortitude has been so profoundly vindicated.”
Hope Not Hate
The anti-racism campaign group said the EHRC report was “unequivocal and damning”.
“Those who led, ran and administered the Labour Party over this period have serious questions to answer, and the entire party from members to MPs and Peers should reflect on this period and ask themselves how this was allowed to happen for so long,” it said.
Sadiq Khan
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan VICTORIA JONES via Getty Images
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Labour’s London mayor said the EHRC report marked “a dark day” for the party.
“It’s utterly shameful that, rather than being an ally and defending the Jewish community, the Labour Party not only failed to address anti-Semitism within the party, but oversaw unlawful acts of harassment and discrimination,” he said in a statement posted to Twitter.
“I welcome Keir Starmer’s swift and strong response to the EHRC report, as well as the action he’s already taken as leader to root out anti-Semitism.
“I will do everything I can to work with the new leadership of the Labour Party to stamp out anti-Semitism and to bring an end to this appalling chapter in Labour’s history.”
Luciana Berger
Former Labour MP Luciana Berger PA
The Jewish former MP who quit Labour over anti-Semitism said the findings were “damning”.
“It’s a very emotional day. This comes after an incredible and very, very challenging journey. A very, very, very tumultuous time,” she told the BBC.
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“I had to take the decision ultimately to leave the Labour Party 18 months ago, a decision I never anticipated I would ever have to make, and at that moment people accused me and others of making it up, of it being a fabrication, and as we’ve seen in the report today, very, very clearly, it wasn’t.”
Margaret Hodge
Margaret Hodge PA
The veteran Labour MP said Corbyn had “shamed” the party and accused him of being “in permanent denial about the extent of the problems that emerged during his leadership”.
“Even when the evidence is placed in front of him he fails really to understand the importance and severity of it,” she told a press conference.
“It happened on his watch. He shamed the Labour Party. He sat at the centre of a party that enabled anti-Semitism to spread from the fringes to the mainstream.” She added: “He is yesterday’s man. He is absolutely irrelevant.”
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APPG Against Anti-Semitism
Labour MP Catherine McKinnell, the co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) against anti-Semitism, said it was a “shameful day” for the Labour Party.
“It is profoundly distressing that an organisation established by a Labour government to uphold the equality laws we fought to bring about, has found that in recent years our party has been responsible for discrimination and harassment of Jewish members,” she said in a statement.
Welcoming action from Starmer to implement recommendations made in the EHRC report, McKinnell added: “There is a long road ahead in rebuilding trust, but first we must reflect on the enormity of what has happened and collectively renew our steadfast resolve to ensure it can never ever happen again.”
Antisemitism Policy Trust
The Antisemitism Policy Trust – a charity “focused on educating and empowering decision makers to effectively combat anti-Semitism” – said the EHRC’s find was “profound and shameful”.
“It should send a shockwave through the Labour Party and serve as a wakeup call for change,” the charity said in a statement.
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“Today, everyone’s thoughts should be with the victims of anti-Jewish racism, MPs bullied from or within their party, Jewish Labour members discriminated against, families that lived in fear, young people deterred from aspirations for public life, Jewish women who repeatedly bore the brunt of online and other abuse and so many Jewish people told they were liars.
“The ugly truth has now been laid bare for all to see. Reflection, education and leadership are now required.”
Unions
Unison is one of 12 unions affiliated with the Labour Party. Its general secretary Dave Prentis said the EHRC report was “incredibly serious and damaging”.
“It will now be up to the whole Labour Party – led by Keir Starmer – to learn the vital lessons outlined in this shameful, distressing report, and repair its damaged relationship with the Jewish community,” he said.
“Unison has always fought racism in all its forms, including anti-Semitism. The union urged Labour to tackle anti-Semitism in its ranks long before the EHRC investigation.
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“Unison will continue to work with everyone who wants to banish the scourge of anti-Semitism from the Party once and for all.”
Prentis added: “There must never again be any place for discrimination of any kind within Labour.”
Dave Ward, general secretary of the Communications Workers’ Union, said the report was a “serious and detailed document everyone in the Party should read and understand” – but criticised the decision to suspend Corbyn.
″@Keir_Starmer’s political decision to suspend @jeremycorbyn – a lifelong anti-racist campaigner – flies in the face of the report It’s fundamentally wrong and needs to change,” he tweeted.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--These People Told Their Trump-Loving Friends How They Really Feel

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Jimmy Kimmel’s crew asked people on the street to tell their President Donald Trump-supporting relatives and friends exactly what they thought of their political views.
And, from behind the anonymity of a mask, they didn’t hold back.
One woman had a scathing message for her sister who she said goes on and on “about this orange stain being the best thing to happen to this country.”
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Another simply asked how “David” could “vote for a pig like that?”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Mum Fined £100 For Overstaying In BP Car Park While Breastfeeding

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A mother has spoken out about the lack of safe spaces to breastfeed amid the Covid-19 pandemic, after being fined £100 for overstaying at a BP station while feeding her daughter.
Cassie Werber, 39, was driving from Bristol to London with her young daughter on October 13 when she realised she’d have to make a stop on the M25 for fuel and to breastfeed.
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She pulled into a parking space at a BP petrol station and spent around 25 minutes feeding her daughter, after which she filled up her car, paid, and used the baby changing facilities in the station – a visit which lasted, in total, little more than 45 minutes.
She said: “It was really out of necessity, I pulled into one of the parking bays at the side of the station and fed her. I wasn’t timing it, but I think it would have been in the region of 20, 25 minutes.
Cassie Werber and her daughter. Cassie Werber
“I didn’t know there were any time limits on being in a petrol station, if I had known maybe I wouldn’t have gone there to breastfeed – maybe I would have gone somewhere else – to be honest I would have imagined that being a customer for a business would mean you could park in those bays for a little longer.”
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Several days after her stop at the petrol station, Werber received notice that she was liable to pay a £100 fine for overstaying in the car park. She appealed and provided a full account of what had happened, but on October 26 was issued with a rejection, which she said made no reference to her statement.
There was no indication that she could appeal to BP, she said, and MET Parking said it would not enter into further correspondence over the fine.
After her appeal was rejected she tweeted about her experience, which led to an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live. Only after going public with what had happened was she contact by BP, and found out whilst on air that MET Parking had dropped the fine.
An email from the parking company stated the fine had been dropped as a “gesture of goodwill”, although one that “may not be repeated in the future”.
I've just been issued with a £100 parking fine for breastfeeding in my own car. I explained the situation to the parking company, MET Parking Services, in an appeal. They have just rejected it. I was at a @BP_plc @bp_Press petrol station at the time, where I also bought petrol! — Cassie Werber (@cassiewerber) October 27, 2020
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An update on the parking/breastfeeding situation I tweeted about yesterday. MET Parking Services have now cancelled the fine. Their letter says "as a gesutre of goodwill this parking charge notice has been cancelled. Please note that this gesture may not be repeated in future." — Cassie Werber (@cassiewerber) October 29, 2020
A BP spokesperson said: “We have parking restrictions in place on a small number of BP sites in the UK where there is high demand for parking.
“The restrictions are intended to help our customers park and shop with us, and avoid spaces being used by those who are not customers.
“In the small number of cases where genuine customers have been issued a fine, we’d ask them to get in touch so we can investigate.”
Werber explained that lockdown had made the experience of caring for a newborn much more difficult, and finding a safe indoor space to breastfeed almost impossible.
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She said: “There are so few places to go that are safe, indoor and private – and privacy isn’t even really an issue because I don’t think women should be hiding in their cars to breastfeed.
“Normally there are so many places that you can go as a new mum, like baby groups, cafes, health services or even just a friend or family member’s sofa, but none of those are really available now especially in tier 2.
“I think it’s probably massively affecting people’s mental health. I’ve just had my second child so I think I’m quite lucky – when you have your first it’s a huge life change and you’re all at sea. For first time parents it must be really, really tough.”
She added: “It’s the season change too. You can’t go and sit in a park comfortably, there are very few places to go.
“People aren’t really using public transport so much either, which means a lot more people are breastfeeding in their cars if they have one. It’s something I’ve had to do a lot of times just out of necessity.”
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--Harry Styles Had Tea With A Fan's Dad And Even Fed Her Fish – And She Missed The Whole Thing

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One Harry Styles fan got the shock of her life when she found out her idol had been at her home – and she missed the whole thing.
Theodora, a young fan of the singer, revealed the unbelievable story on her Instagram page, revealing that while she was out, Harry’s car had broken down outside of her home, and her dad had let him in to use the phone.
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Admittedly, this does sound like the sort of thing that only happens in TV shows (or, indeed, in a dream), but she actually posted photographic proof of the surprising encounter.
Theodora’s Instagram account is private, but the pictures she posted have gone viral among fans of the star on Twitter, including the note that he left her and a snap of Harry feeding her pet fish.
Imagine coming home to find out @Harry_Styles' car broke down outside your house and he's been in your room, feeding your fish and leaving you notes.
He is truly the king of kindness.
We need more people like this in the world. pic.twitter.com/PO1l5f6ZYX — Alex Goldschmidt (@alexandergold) October 28, 2020
#HarryStyles hung out at a superfan's house (while she wasn't home) after his car broke down. He drank some tea with her dad and fed her fish. The moral of the story? Anything can happen in 2020. pic.twitter.com/s2DdIEFl9N — etalk (@etalkCTV) October 29, 2020
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“Theadora, my car broke down on your street and your dad’s friend kindly let me wait at your house with a cup of tea,” he said. “I’m devastated that we missed each other. Looking forward to meeting soon. Treat people with kindness.”
Another photo showed that he’d signed her copy of Fine Line – including adorning his face with a face covering – writing: “Sending you all my love, I’m so sorry we missed each other. Until next time, Harry.”
The best part of the whole story? The fact the goldfish in question is actually named after Harry Styles.
Harry Styles Gareth Cattermole via Getty Images
Earlier this week, Harry shared a political message with his Twitter followers, explaining why he was endorsing Joe Biden in the upcoming US election.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--The Crown Series 4: New Trailer Sees Gillian Anderson And Olivia Colman Go Toe-To-Toe

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With just over two weeks to go until the new series of The Crown, Netflix has unveiled a new trailer showing more of what fans can expect from season four.
And while past clips from the upcoming series have focussed more on the existing cast and newcomer Emma Corrin, this latest teaser puts Gillian Anderson in the spotlight.
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The former X Files star is joining the regal Netflix drama as former prime minister Margaret Thatcher, and the new trailer sees her going toe-to-toe with Olivia Colman as Queen Elizabeth II.
Gillian Anderson and Olivia Colman in The Crown Netflix
“My goal is to change this country from being dependent to self-reliant and I think in that I am succeeding,” Gillian is heard declaring, interspersed with footage from the new series.
“Joblessness, recession, crises,” the Queen then responds, adding: “It’s a dangerous game to make enemies left, right and centre.”
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“What if one is comfortable with having enemies?” Thatcher then questions.
The new teaser also shows Tobias Menzies as Prince Phillip lamenting that Britain has “two women running the shop”, as well as new footage of Emma Corrin as Princess Diana.
Alongside already-teased clips of Diana on her wedding day, fans get a glimpse of her first meeting with Prince Charles, as well as footage of her dancing in one of the royal palaces.
Princess Diana falls to the floor after wildly dancing in a new trailer for The Crown Netflix
Speaking to HuffPost UK earlier this month, Emma hinted that Diana’s love of dance was something that would be explored on the show, while co-star Josh O’Connor said he was keen for the show to portray both sides of their marriage.
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thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--BBC News' Simon McCoy Has Savage Dig At Family's Covid-Friendly Halloween Solution

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BBC newsreader Simon McCoy has earned quite a following with his often-sarcastic broadcasting style, and left fans howling with his typically dry response to a Halloween story on Wednesday.
The presenter made a savage dig at a family who had developed a Covid-friendly device to deliver sweets to Trick Or Treaters on 31 October.
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The “Candy Chute” involved a drainpipe being connected to the family’s front door, which they were able to shove packets of sweets down to any door knockers, thus compiling with social distancing guidelines.
Simon McCoy appeared not to be a fan of this Covid-friendly Halloween device featured on BBC News BBC
Simon appeared less than impressed, however, remarking: “The transaction is entirely contactless... As will be her social life.”
BBC News viewers were absolutely loving his sassy response...
All these raging debates about the licence fee, but that bad boy pays Simon McCoy’s salary. Worth every penny, I say. https://t.co/j9zGQKCmPs — Georgina Bailey (@georginaebailey) October 28, 2020
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Do the BBC purposely give Simon McCoy these silly news stories for the sole purpose of broadcasting his absolute sass?? 😂 https://t.co/zrw8OAyAJt — Josh O (@ROGNJSH) October 28, 2020
Simon McCoy brings me so much joy pic.twitter.com/qI6W9KpybB — Felicity Morse (@FelicityMorse) October 28, 2020
Simon McCoy never fails to make me smile 😆 https://t.co/uWwwc6qSzh — Gemmaaaargh 👻 Pettman (@GemmaPettmanPR) October 28, 2020
One small quote and Simon McCoy is a national treasure https://t.co/uAxUVeNf0G — luke #NFFC (@lukemoss49) October 28, 2020
#bbcnews "...as well as her social life" 😀😀 Try not to break out laughing during the news 😁 #SimonMcCoy @BBCSimonMcCoy — Oli from Reading 🦁 (@OliReading) October 28, 2020
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Simon McCoy is so sassy on air 😂😂 — Helin Tezcanli (@TezcanliHelin) October 28, 2020
Simon’s unique take on certain news stories have made headlines of their own on a number of occasions over the years.
In 2013, he reported on the upcoming birth of Prince George saying: “Plenty more to come from here... none of it news.”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-29--The 9 Rookie Errors Of Lockdown Life We Won't Be Making Again

I’ll resist drunken impulse purchases
John Johnston, senior video producer: “I love football. During lockdown one, I missed football. Instead of talking football, our friends took to sharing the new kit reveals – a tiny thread of life to cling to as we all sat at home. This, mixed with boozy zoom calls, ever-less-enjoyable pub quizzes and the festering realisation that loungewear was my look for the remainder of 2020 saw me treat myself to some “because you deserve happiness” football shirts. Not Premier League, mind, but European ones. Chic. Cosmopolitan. Refined. Doesn’t matter that I’ve never actually watched a Bundesliga game. Or Serie A, since the glory days of Football Italia. Now, here I am in lockdown two with a plethora of football shirts bought in a drunken haze that I’d never wear outside as a 35-year-old male who tries to foster the idea he’s not a man child. And why did I think getting Müller emblazoned on one of them was a classy move?”
I’ll try and be loads more creative
Amy Packham, life editor: “I have a bullet journal and for three years before lockdown, I religiously drew/wrote/doodled in it every single week. I marked out big plans and things that had happened in my life so I could look back and remember. But when lockdown hit, I lost all my creativity and have struggled to get it back. I didn’t write about anything – not even the small bits of joy we found each day – and left my journal to one side with all my colourful pencils. I think it would’ve been nice to look back on how I felt, however weird that time was, so I’m determined to find some creativity and pick it up again soon!”


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-30--His Dark Materials Star Ariyon Bakare On Racial Equality

His Dark Materials Star Ariyon Bakare On Racial Equality
Actor Ariyon Bakare recounts the moment he witnessed his father being racially attacked as a child and how it informed his decision to start iCARE, a platform for conversations about racial equality. Contributors on the platform include Misan Harriman, Stacy Martin and Eddie Marsan among others.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-30--Kim Kardashian And Maya Jama Lead Our Favourite Celebrity Costumes Of 2020

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For obvious reasons, most of us are unable to celebrate Halloween in the way we usually would this year.
But, with trick-or-treating and the usual Halloween parties out of the question, a number of celebrities have still managed to give us our fright fix this spooky season.
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Whether they’re donning festive outfits for Halloween TV specials or getting all dressed up with no place to go simply for our amusement, here’s a round-up of our favourite celeb costumes of 2020...
Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy as The Sanderson Sisters
Bette Midler fans will know she doesn’t need much encouragement to revisit her iconic Hocus Pocus role, but in 2020, she’s doing it for a good cause, and roping in her former co-stars too.
She, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy are revisiting the Sanders sisters a full 27 years after the Disney classic was first released, with the trio appearing in a new special, In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover, which will air on Friday 30 October.
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The virtual event will raise money for New York Restoration Project, a charity set up by Bette Midler in 1995.
Glenn Close as Cruella De Vil
But they’re not the only ones reprising old roles for the Hocus Pocus bash.
What’s even more impressive is the fact the Oscar-nominated star’s outfit was mostly made out of things she already had around the house, including some old chopsticks, a pair of long johns and a fur coat she previously wore in The Wife.
Halsey as Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride
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The award for this year’s best celebrity Halloween makeup has to go to singer-songwriter Halsey, who unveiled this spooky look inspired by Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride.
A day earlier, she also debuted this unnerving snap, commenting: “Whipped this up this morning.”
Maya Jama as Jessica Rabbit
The annual Celebrity Juice Halloween special might need to be socially-distanced this year, but we’re happy to see that doesn’t mean the stars are making any less efforts with their outfits.
Our favourite of the bunch has to be this one from Maya Jama, though. Jessica Rabbit is obviously a tried and tested celebrity Halloween costume, which the likes of Heidi Klum, Ashley Graham and former Drag Race winner Sharon Needles have all attempted in the past.
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We have to applaud Maya’s efforts, though, as she’s pretty much nailed the outfit and cartoonish makeup.
Keith Lemon as Jack Nicholson in The Shining
Celebrity Juice host Keith Lemon went all in for this year’s Halloween special, even donning full facial prosthetics to perfect this homage to The Shining.
Other stars who appeared on the ITV2 panel show included Craig Revel Horwood as Ursula from The Little Mermaid and Jacqueline Jossa as a zombie-fied Marie Antoinette.
Amanda Holden and Jamie Theakston as Carole Baskin and Joe Exotic
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While presenters Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden donned wigs and some seriously bold prints to become Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin, showbiz presenter Ashley Roberts truly put the pussycat in Pussycat Dolls as she became a tiger for the show.
Kim Kardashian and Jonathan Cheban as Carole Baskin and Joe Exotic
Instagram/Kim Kardashian
But the Heart team weren’t the only ones taking on Tiger King this year.
Kim Kardashian and her family might have to celebrate at home this year, but that didn’t stop her going all out, becoming Carole Baskin while dressing her daughters up as her beloved tigers.
And yep, that’s former Celebrity Big Brother star and “food god” Jonathan Cheban as Joe Exotic.
Nelly as Freddie Krueger
Kelsey McNeal via Getty Images
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For reasons we still can’t get quite our heads around, Strictly Come Dancing isn’t going ahead with its annual Halloween special this year, but fortunately Dancing With The Stars still gave us a themed episode over in the US.
While all of the contestants were given incredible Halloween makeovers, the most impressive of them all has to be Nelly, who donned prosthetics to become one of horror’s most infamous creations, Freddie Kreuger.
Chrishell Stause as Maleficent
Kelsey McNeal via Getty Images
Another of our Dancing With The Stars highlights has to be Chrishell of Selling Sunset fame, who paid homage to one of Disney’s most iconic adversaries with this Maleficent look.
Bruno Tonioli as Beetlejuice
Kelsey McNeal via Getty Images
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Even the judges got in on the fun, with Bruno Tonioli sporting this Beetlejuice costume as he gave out his critiques.
If only it were as easy as saying his name three times to get him back to the Strictly ballroom this year...
Saweetie as Destiny’s Child (yep, all of ’em)
US rapper Saweetie told us we weren’t ready for this jelly, and do you know what? She was absolutely right.
Clearly determined to make the most out of Halloween, she previously shared photos of this stunning RuPaul tribute with her Instagram followers too.
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Ryan Seacrest and Kelly Ripa as Moira and David from Schitt’s Creek
If you’re still in mourning after the Schitt’s Creek finale, it looks like Ryan Seacrest and Kelly Ripa are right there with you.
To honour the hit sitcom – which swept the board at this year’s virtual Emmys – the pair became Moira and David for the Halloween edition of their US talk show.
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The Loose Women panel as... each other
And the Best Actress award goes to Kaye Adams. 🏆😂
Watch more of her hilarious impression of Stacey ➡ https://t.co/OQJh5NFFEV pic.twitter.com/N9ouaKFsJJ — Loose Women (@loosewomen) October 30, 2020
A group costume which, for the most part, consists of the panellists chucking a few Amazon wigs on and calling it a day.


thehuffingtonpostuk--2020-10-30--Tommy Cannon Emotional As He Remembers Bobby Ball: 'I Don't Know Where I Am'

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Tommy Cannon broke down in tears as he remembered his comedy partner Bobby Ball during an interview on This Morning on Friday.
Bobby – who was best known as one half of duo Cannon & Ball, alongside Tommy – died in a Blackpool hospital on Wednesday night at the age of 76, after contracting Covid-19.
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Appearing on the ITV daytime show to pay tribute to his late friend, Tommy became emotional as he admitted he is having a difficult time processing Bobby’s death.
Tommy Cannon appeared on This Morning on Friday ITV
“It’s a very sad time,” he told hosts Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes. “At this moment in time, I don’t know where I am. I can’t believe he’s passed away.
“I can’t make any sense of it yet, I really can’t.
“I miss him terribly, I loved him to bits. We had a great career, with great memories to look back on… and I know one day I’ll meet him again.”
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Tommy revealed he “didn’t really know” Bobby had been so ill, explaining he thought his friend had been getting better after being admitted to hospital last week.
“We last worked on the ninth of this month and he seemed OK and I didn’t know anything was wrong really,” he explained. “Then on Saturday he was taken into hospital and that’s where he stayed… we were told he was stable, or he was getting a little better, and I don’t know, suddenly he just passed away.
“I got a phone call from his lovely wife and that was it. It was so quick, but like I say, now he’s at rest. God love him.
“He’ll be up there with all his pals, Eddie Large and Eric Sykes and Bernard Manning and all the greats and he’ll be up there with them shining like a light.”
Cannon and Ball pictured in 2013 PA
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When asked if he feels like a part of him has gone as well, Tommy agreed saying: “Oh yeah, a big chunk. I don’t think I’ll ever get over it. I don’t.
“It’s an empty feeling that after nearly 58 years working together starting in the pubs and working men’s clubs – it took 15 years before we got on to TV.”
This Morning airs weekdays at 10am on ITV.