buzzfeed--2020-06-28--There Are 93 US Attorneys. Seven Are Women And Only Two Are Black.

WASHINGTON — When Audrey Strauss became the acting US attorney in Manhattan after the dramatic showdown between her boss Geoffrey Berman and Attorney General Bill Barr last weekend , she became the seventh woman to hold one of the 93 US attorney posts nationwide .
Strauss had been Berman ’ s top deputy , but she wasn ’ t the Trump administration ’ s first , or even second , choice to replace him .
According to Barr ’ s public statements , Trump planned to nominate Jay Clayton , the head of the US Securities and Exchange Commission .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the US attorney for New Jersey , would temporarily replace Berman , but scuttled that plan after Berman refused to voluntarily step down .
The fight over Berman ’ s seat underscores the Trump administration ’ s practice of overwhelmingly placing white men in charge of federal prosecutor offices .
Berman , Clayton , and Carpenito are white .
Based on publicly available photographs and biographical information , BuzzFeed News identified 7 of 93 US attorneys are BIPOC , including two Black US attorneys : Louis Franklin Sr. in Alabama and Kenji Price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American .
US attorneys generally don ’ t make day-to-day decisions about who to prosecute , but set priorities and policies for their offices .
They can play a hands-on role in high-profile investigations — the US attorney in Minnesota , Erica MacDonald , is involved in the Justice Department ’ s federal civil rights probe into the death of George Floyd , a Black man who died after a white police officer in Minneapolis used a knee chokehold on him .
Floyd ’ s death in May — and the anti-racism and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trained attention on how Black men and women are treated by law enforcement and within the broader criminal justice system .
Racial injustice and discrimination happen “ more easily when Black people don ’ t have a seat at senior leadership tables , ” said Joyce Vance , a former US attorney in Alabama during the Obama administration .
“ It ’ s not just policing , it ’ s across the criminal justice system .
It ’ s policing , prosecutive decisions , it ’ s decisions about who gets a plea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like , it ’ s a question of sentencing , and , perhaps most importantly of all , it involves prisons and incarceration , ” Vance said .
Asked for comment , Justice Department spokesperson Wyn Hornbuckle directed BuzzFeed News to an updated Justice Department Equal Employment Opportunity Policy that Barr signed after he became attorney general in February 2019 .
“ We welcome employees from diverse backgrounds to apply their skills and talents toward advancing our mission to serve the country , achieve justice , and promote the rule of law , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 93 US attorneys who oversee 94 US attorney offices ( one official oversees the offices for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands ) .
In 2017 , then-attorney general Jeff Sessions asked for resignations from the remaining Obama appointees who were still in office , clearing these seats for Trump to fill .
As of this month , 81 seats are filled by US attorneys nominated by Trump and confirmed by the Senate .
Most of the 12 remaining posts are held by officials who were put in place by Sessions or Barr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a few are held by second-in-commands like Strauss who under federal law can automatically fill a vacancy absent action by the president or attorney general .
The percentage of US attorneys who are women or BIPOC doesn ’ t match the gender and racial makeup of staff within US attorney offices .
According to internal Justice Department data from 2019 obtained by BuzzFeed News , 13 % of all employees in US attorney offices nationwide are Black and 70 % are white ; those numbers include attorneys as well as other staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of US attorney office employees are women .
DOJ leadership has faced scrutiny about the lack of diversity in senior positions before .
In February 2019 , BuzzFeed News reported that the DOJ Gender Equality Network , or DOJ GEN , an affinity group representing nearly 400 employees and contractors , sent a letter to division heads noting the lack of women holding top jobs in the main litigating divisions of the department ; the group didn ’ t address demographics in US attorney offices .
DOJ spokesperson Kerri Kupec said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the department was committed to “ fostering inclusive work environments that afford men and women from diverse backgrounds the equal opportunity to grow in their careers and support the Justice mission.
” Steven Wasserman , an assistant US attorney in Washington , DC , and vice president of policy for the National Association of Assistant United States Attorneys , said the primary concern of career attorneys in US attorney offices is that political appointees are qualified , but that isn ’ t inconsistent with also wanting diversity .
He said it matters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we do our jobs and how we prioritize our enforcement obligations , the current situation in the country being a prime example.
” “ Ultimately , we believe that there are plenty of qualified female candidates and minority candidates out there to fill these positions , ” Wasserman said , speaking in his capacity as an association leader and not as a representative of the US attorney ’ s office .
When Trump first began to fill US attorney seats in 2017 , his early nominees were nearly all white men .
Out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , just one was a woman — Jessie Liu , who became the US attorney for the District of Columbia .
Former US attorneys and civil rights advocates criticized Trump ’ s picks at the time .
When Liu left the DC office in January for a position in the Treasury Department , Barr appointed Timothy Shea , who had worked for Barr at DOJ headquarters , to fill the job on an interim basis .
In May , the Justice Department announced that Trump would nominate Justin Herdman , a US attorney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ office .
Shea moved over to the Drug Enforcement Administration , and was replaced pending Herdman ’ s nomination by the top deputy in the US attorney ’ s office , Michael Sherwin .
Shea , Herdman , and Sherwin are all white .
In May , Barr announced that he ’ d appointed Stephen Cox to serve as the interim US attorney for the Eastern District of Texas .
Cox , who is white , had been a senior official in the office of the associate attorney general before the appointment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ little diversity among U.S .
Attorneys , especially as time goes on because we are seeing DOJ install handpicked acting U.S. attorneys who are not Senate-confirmed , ” Barbara McQuade , who served as a US attorney in Michigan during the Obama administration , told BuzzFeed News in an email .
“ When the Senate is providing advice and consent , then blame for the lack of diversity can be spread around , but when the AG himself is choosing , then the lack of diversity can be laid squarely at his feet.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ woman confirmed as a US attorney under Trump who was replaced by a man after leaving office .
US District Judge Sherri Lydon had served as US attorney in South Carolina until Trump nominated her for the federal bench .
The US attorney who replaced Lydon , Peter McCoy , is white .
As the acting US attorney in Manhattan , Strauss can lead the office for up to 210 days under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act .
Federal law also allows Barr to appoint an interim US attorney for up to 120 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the federal district court for that US attorney district can appoint a US attorney to serve .
As of Friday afternoon , the White House had not formally submitted Clayton ’ s nomination to the Senate .
On the evening of June 19 , Barr announced that Berman was stepping down .
Two hours later , in an extraordinary public rebuke , Berman released a statement saying it wasn ’ t true , and he did not plan to voluntarily leave the office .
The next day , Barr said that Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporters that he “ wasn ’ t involved ” in what was happening .
Berman finally ended the standoff by releasing a statement saying he was “ leaving.
” He ended with glowing praise for Strauss .
Strauss “ is the smartest , most principled , and effective lawyer with whom I have ever had the privilege of working , ” Berman said .
“ And I know that under her leadership , this Office ’ s unparalleled AUSAs , investigators , paralegals , and staff will continue to safeguard the Southern District @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independence.
” Positions at the very top of the Justice Department have largely been filled by white men under Trump .
Rachel Brand originally served as associate attorney general , the number three official in the department .
When Brand left in early 2018 , Jesse Panuccio , who is a white man , became the acting associate attorney general .
Trump never formally nominated anyone for the job ; the office is now run by Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Claire Murray .
Trump and Barr had planned to nominate Liu for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ withdrew from consideration after Republican senators objected , according to the Washington Post .
When Liu stepped down as US attorney in January , she moved over to the Treasury Department while she waited for the Senate to act on her nomination to a senior Treasury post .
But Trump pulled that nomination in February and Liu then left the administration altogether ; the Washington Post reported that a conservative political operative , among others , had complained about Liu ’ s handling of the US attorney ’ s office , including cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s investigation .
An attorney at the Justice Department who requested anonymity to speak about senior leadership told BuzzFeed News in a text message this week that the small number of women serving as US attorneys at the moment was “ unacceptable.
” “ Seven , wow , ” the attorney wrote .
“ I think that having women comprise less than 10 percent of your workforce in 2020 is unacceptable for any employer , but especially the federal government .
”

WASHINGTON — When Audrey Strauss became the acting US attorney in Manhattan after the dramatic showdown between her boss Geoffrey Berman and Attorney General Bill Barr last weekend, she became the seventh woman to hold one of the 93 US attorney posts nationwide.
Strauss had been Berman’s top deputy, but she wasn’t the Trump administration’s first, or even second, choice to replace him. According to Barr’s public statements, Trump planned to nominate Jay Clayton, the head of the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Barr also announced that Craig Carpenito, the US attorney for New Jersey, would temporarily replace Berman, but scuttled that plan after Berman refused to voluntarily step down.
The fight over Berman’s seat underscores the Trump administration’s practice of overwhelmingly placing white men in charge of federal prosecutor offices. Berman, Clayton, and Carpenito are white. Based on publicly available photographs and biographical information, BuzzFeed News identified 7 of 93 US attorneys are BIPOC, including two Black US attorneys: Louis Franklin Sr. in Alabama and Kenji Price in Hawaii, who is also Asian American.
US attorneys generally don’t make day-to-day decisions about who to prosecute, but set priorities and policies for their offices. They can play a hands-on role in high-profile investigations — the US attorney in Minnesota, Erica MacDonald, is involved in the Justice Department’s federal civil rights probe into the death of George Floyd, a Black man who was killed when a white police officer in Minneapolis used a knee chokehold on him.
Floyd’s death in May — and the anti–racism and police brutality protests that followed — have trained attention on how Black men and women are treated by law enforcement and within the broader criminal justice system. Racial injustice and discrimination happen “more easily when Black people don’t have a seat at senior leadership tables,” said Joyce Vance, a former US attorney in Alabama during the Obama administration.
“It’s not just policing. It’s across the criminal justice system. It’s policing, prosecutive decisions, it’s decisions about who gets a plea bargain and what does the deal look like, it’s a question of sentencing, and, perhaps most importantly of all, it involves prisons and incarceration,” Vance said.
Asked for comment, Justice Department spokesperson Wyn Hornbuckle directed BuzzFeed News to an updated Justice Department Equal Employment Opportunity Policy that Barr signed after he became attorney general in February 2019.
“We welcome employees from diverse backgrounds to apply their skills and talents toward advancing our mission to serve the country, achieve justice, and promote the rule of law,” the policy states.
There are 93 US attorneys who oversee 94 US attorney offices (one official oversees the offices for Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands). In 2017, then-attorney general Jeff Sessions asked for resignations from the remaining Obama appointees who were still in office, clearing these seats for Trump to fill.
As of this month, 81 seats are filled by US attorneys nominated by Trump and confirmed by the Senate. Most of the 12 remaining posts are held by officials who were put in place by Sessions or Barr in lieu of a presidential nominee, and a few are held by second-in-commands like Strauss who under federal law can automatically fill a vacancy absent action by the president or attorney general.
The percentage of US attorneys who are women or BIPOC doesn’t match the gender and racial makeup of staff within US attorney offices. According to internal Justice Department data from 2019 obtained by BuzzFeed News, 13% of all employees in US attorney offices nationwide are Black and 70% are white; those numbers include attorneys as well as other staff. The data show that 58% of US attorney office employees are women.
DOJ leadership has faced scrutiny about the lack of diversity in senior positions before. In February 2019, BuzzFeed News reported that the DOJ Gender Equality Network, or DOJ GEN, an affinity group representing nearly 400 employees and contractors, sent a letter to division heads noting the lack of women holding top jobs in the main litigating divisions of the department; the group didn’t address demographics in US attorney offices.
DOJ spokesperson Kerri Kupec said in a statement to BuzzFeed News at the time that the department was committed to “fostering inclusive work environments that afford men and women from diverse backgrounds the equal opportunity to grow in their careers and support the Justice mission.”
Steven Wasserman, an assistant US attorney in Washington, DC, and vice president of policy for the National Association of Assistant United States Attorneys, said the primary concern of career attorneys in US attorney offices is that political appointees are qualified, but that isn’t inconsistent with also wanting diversity. He said it matters “to have different perspectives on how we do our jobs and how we prioritize our enforcement obligations, the current situation in the country being a prime example.”
“Ultimately, we believe that there are plenty of qualified female candidates and minority candidates out there to fill these positions,” Wasserman said, speaking in his capacity as an association leader and not as a representative of the US attorney’s office.
When Trump first began to fill US attorney seats in 2017, his early nominees were nearly all white men. Out of Trump’s first 42 nominees, just one was a woman — Jessie Liu, who became the US attorney for the District of Columbia. Former US attorneys and civil rights advocates criticized Trump’s picks at the time.
When Liu left the DC office in January for a position in the Treasury Department, Barr appointed Timothy Shea, who had worked for Barr at DOJ headquarters, to fill the job on an interim basis. In May, the Justice Department announced that Trump would nominate Justin Herdman, a US attorney in Ohio, to lead the DC office. Shea moved over to the Drug Enforcement Administration and was replaced pending Herdman’s nomination by the top deputy in the US attorney’s office, Michael Sherwin. Shea, Herdman, and Sherwin are all white.
In May, Barr announced that he’d appointed Stephen Cox to serve as the interim US attorney for the Eastern District of Texas. Cox, who is white, had been a senior official in the office of the associate attorney general before the appointment.
“It is concerning to see so little diversity among U.S. Attorneys, especially as time goes on because we are seeing DOJ install handpicked acting U.S. attorneys who are not Senate-confirmed,” Barbara McQuade, who served as a US attorney in Michigan during the Obama administration, told BuzzFeed News in an email. “When the Senate is providing advice and consent, then blame for the lack of diversity can be spread around, but when the AG himself is choosing, then the lack of diversity can be laid squarely at his feet.”
Liu isn’t the only woman confirmed as a US attorney under Trump who was replaced by a man after leaving office. US District Judge Sherri Lydon had served as US attorney in South Carolina until Trump nominated her for the federal bench. The US attorney who replaced Lydon, Peter McCoy, is white.
As the acting US attorney in Manhattan, Strauss can lead the office for up to 210 days under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act. Federal law also allows Barr to appoint an interim US attorney for up to 120 days. If a temporary appointment expires, the federal district court for that US attorney district can appoint a US attorney to serve. As of Friday afternoon, the White House had not formally submitted Clayton’s nomination to the Senate.
On the evening of June 19, Barr announced that Berman was stepping down. Two hours later, in an extraordinary public rebuke, Berman released a statement saying it wasn’t true, and he did not plan to voluntarily leave the office. The next day, Barr said that Trump had fired Berman, although Trump told reporters that he “wasn’t involved” in what was happening. Berman finally ended the standoff by releasing a statement saying he was “leaving.” He ended with glowing praise for Strauss.
Strauss “is the smartest, most principled, and effective lawyer with whom I have ever had the privilege of working,” Berman said. “And I know that under her leadership, this Office’s unparalleled AUSAs, investigators, paralegals, and staff will continue to safeguard the Southern District’s enduring tradition of integrity and independence.”
Positions at the very top of the Justice Department have largely been filled by white men under Trump. Rachel Brand originally served as associate attorney general, the number three official in the department. When Brand left in early 2018, Jesse Panuccio, who is a white man, became the acting associate attorney general. Trump never formally nominated anyone for the job; the office is now run by Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Claire Murray.
Trump and Barr had planned to nominate Liu for the number three position, but she withdrew from consideration after Republican senators objected, according to the Washington Post.
When Liu stepped down as US attorney in January, she moved over to the Treasury Department while she waited for the Senate to act on her nomination to a senior Treasury post. But Trump pulled that nomination in February and Liu then left the administration altogether; the Washington Post reported that a conservative political operative, among others, had complained about Liu’s handling of the US attorney’s office, including cases related to former special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation.
An attorney at the Justice Department who requested anonymity to speak about senior leadership told BuzzFeed News in a text message this week that the small number of women serving as US attorneys at the moment was “unacceptable.”
“Seven, wow,” the attorney wrote. “I think that having women comprise less than 10 percent of your workforce in 2020 is unacceptable for any employer, but especially the federal government.”


buzzfeed--2020-06-29--15 Hookup Stories From People Who've Had Sex With A Micropenis

We asked the BuzzFeed Community to open up about their sexual experiences with someone who has a micropenis .
Here are the results .
In case you 're wondering , the average erect penis is 5 inches long , while a micropenis is at least 2.5 standard deviations smaller ( so , smaller than 7 centimeters or 2.75 inches ) .
Also , about .6 % of the male population has a micropenis .
Before we dive into the stories , we spoke to Dr. Kate Balestrieri , a licensed psychologist and certified sex addiction therapist , to get a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impact sex .
Here 's what she said : “ Whether someone has a large penis or a micropenis , the quality of their sexual experience with a partner depends largely on their non-penetrative behaviors .
There are strap-ons and penis extenders that can offer a different tactile experience for penetration , if desired , but nothing can take the place of confidence , erotic kissing , amazing foreplay , and hot sexual energy .
Focus on cultivating an experience that goes beyond penetration , cherish each other , and let sex become @ @ @ @ @ @

We asked the BuzzFeed Community to open up about their sexual experiences with someone who has a micropenis. Here are the results.
In case you're wondering, the average erect penis is 5 inches long, while a micropenis is at least 2.5 standard deviations smaller (so, smaller than 7 centimeters or 2.75 inches). Also, about .6% of the male population has a micropenis.
Before we dive into the stories, we spoke to Dr. Kate Balestrieri, a licensed psychologist and certified sex addiction therapist, to get a better understanding of how a micropenis might impact sex. Here's what she said: “Whether someone has a large penis or a micropenis, the quality of their sexual experience with a partner depends largely on their non-penetrative behaviors. There are strap-ons and penis extenders that can offer a different tactile experience for penetration, if desired, but nothing can take the place of confidence, erotic kissing, amazing foreplay, and hot sexual energy. Focus on cultivating an experience that goes beyond penetration, cherish each other, and let sex become a whole body experience.”


buzzfeed--2020-06-29--Someone Edited Clips Of People Freaking Out About Face Masks Into A "Parks And Rec" Town Hall Meetin

Someone Edited Clips Of People Freaking Out About Face Masks Into A "Parks And Rec" Town Hall Meeting And It's Perfect

`` It was kind of painful to listen through these people complaining about having to wear a mask , but @ @ @ @ @ the end , '' Law added .
`` Mostly , I ’ m just happy @ @ @ @ @ of it and we ’ re able to laugh during a pretty dark time in @ @ @ @ @ . ''

Well, as you've probably seen on the news, there have been lots of REAL town hall meetings happening recently, in which people have thrown massive tantrums about having to wear face masks in public — and spread lots of (incorrect) conspiracy theories about COVID-19 being a hoax.


buzzfeed--2020-06-29--Democrats Are Threatening To Kick Republicans Out Of Future Coronavirus Hearings For Not Wearing Mas

Democrats Are Threatening To Kick Republicans Out Of Future Coronavirus Hearings For Not Wearing Masks

Rep. James Clyburn greets House Minority Whip Steve Scalise with an elbow bump before a hearing of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis on June 26 .
WASHINGTON — Democrats on the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis are threatening to bar Republican members from attending future meetings in-person after they showed up to a hearing on Friday without masks .
Subcommittee Chair Jim Clyburn is sending a letter to ranking member Steve Scalise , warning he and other members would not be allowed into hearing rooms in the future without proper face coverings .
“ Going forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s requirement to wear masks is in place , I will not permit any Member of this Subcommittee to participate in-person in any Committee meeting or hearing unless the Member is wearing a mask and strictly adheres to the Attending Physician ’ s guidance , ” Clyburn said in a letter to Scalise .
The letter further recommends members participate remotely if they insist on not wearing masks .
The letter comes after a months-long debate in Congress where Republicans have repeatedly disregarded recommendations and then a requirement from Capitol health experts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the topic came to a head at the end of a Friday hearing when Clyburn reminded his Republican colleagues they were in violation of a mandate handed down by the attending physician , even as disposable masks were stationed outside the hearing room for members to use .
“ For the United States House of Representatives meetings , in a limited and closed space such as a committee hearing room for greater than 15 minutes face coverings are required , ” Clyburn said , reading the Capitol health official ’ s order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to have another meeting in a confined space if we ’ re not going to abide by this .
I will stay in the safety of my home as I would ask all you to do.
” Scalise responded to Clyburn by saying members of the House are following guidelines on how to social distance just fine , suggesting mask-wearing is an additional precautionary measure .
“ I understand doctors might look at things differently and want to give even extra precautions , but the precautions that have been out there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , arguing social distancing and disinfecting surfaces meet certain health official guidelines .
Rep. Jamie Raskin , a Democrat , also chimed in to note that dozens of members of Congress have quarantined because they ’ ve either tested positive or come into contact with others who have , even pointing to the death of Rep. Maxine Water ’ s sister who died from the coronavirus .
“ Why is it some kind of macho thing , like ‘ if I don ’ t wear a mask , I ’ m tough.
’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go spend the day with the nurses and doctors in the hospitals , ” Raskin told members during the committee hearing Friday morning .
Republican Rep. Mark Green of Tennessee said he would comply should Clyburn require subcommittee members to wear masks meetings .
At least 55 members of Congress have quarantined , tested positive , or came in contact with someone with COVID-19 , according to a Gov.Track analysis .
Since March , most Republicans in the House have refused to wear masks on the House floor , sometimes throughout hours of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the national divide on the topic .
At a Friday press conference on the coronavirus , Vice President Mike Pence deferred to freedom of speech and the right to assemble when a reporter asked whether the Trump campaign is contributing to increased cases of coronavirus by holding large indoor rallies for supporters who do not social distance or wear masks .
Pence reversed course on Sunday at a press conference in Texas where he encouraged everyone to wear masks if they can not social distance .
The refusal to wear masks is part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who argue assembling with or without masks is part of their constitutional right .
Most supporters attending President Donald Trump ’ s first indoor rally since the coronavirus did not wear masks even while both rallies in Tulsa , Oklahoma , and Phoenix , Arizona were held in states that are seeing an increase in cases .
At least two dozen states have experienced an uptick in coronavirus cases in recent weeks , including Florida , the new host of this year ’ s Republican National Convention after a Democratic lawmaker from North @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in his state amid the pandemic .

WASHINGTON — Democrats on the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis are threatening to bar Republican members from participating future meetings in-person after they showed up to a hearing on Friday without masks.
Subcommittee Chair Jim Clyburn is sending a letter to ranking member Steve Scalise, warning he would not recognize members in hearings and meetings without proper face coverings; the chair must recognize members to speak and participate in committee business.
“Going forward, as long as the Attending Physician’s requirement to wear masks is in place, I will not recognize any Member of this Subcommittee to participate in person in any Subcommittee meeting or hearing unless the Member is wearing a mask and strictly adheres to the Attending Physician’s guidance," Clyburn said in a letter to Scalise. The letter further recommends members participate remotely if they insist on not wearing masks.
The letter comes after a monthslong debate in Congress where Republicans have repeatedly disregarded recommendations and then a requirement from Capitol health experts to wear face coverings. The disagreement on the topic came to a head at the end of a Friday hearing when Clyburn reminded his Republican colleagues they were in violation of a mandate handed down by the attending physician, even as disposable masks were stationed outside the hearing room for members to use.
“For the United States House of Representatives meetings, in a limited and closed space such as a committee hearing room for greater than 15 minutes face coverings are required,” Clyburn said, reading the Capitol health official’s order. “And we’re not going to have another meeting in a confined space if we’re not going to abide by this. I will stay in the safety of my home as I would ask all you to do.”
Scalise responded to Clyburn by saying members of the House are following guidelines on how to social distance just fine, suggesting mask-wearing is an additional precautionary measure.
“I understand doctors might look at things differently and want to give even extra precautions, but the precautions that have been out there are clearly being followed,” Scalise said, arguing social distancing and disinfecting surfaces meet certain health official guidelines.
Rep. Jamie Raskin, a Democrat, also chimed in to note that dozens of members of Congress have quarantined because they’ve either tested positive or come into contact with others who have, even pointing to the death of Rep. Maxine Waters' sister who died from the coronavirus.
“Why is it some kind of macho thing, like, ‘if I don’t wear a mask, I’m tough’? If you want to be tough, go spend the day with the nurses and doctors in the hospitals,” Raskin told members during the committee hearing Friday morning.
Republican Rep. Mark Green of Tennessee said he would comply should Clyburn require subcommittee members to wear masks meetings.
At least 55 members of Congress have quarantined, tested positive, or came in contact with someone with COVID-19, according to a Gov.Track analysis. Since March, most Republicans in the House have refused to wear masks on the House floor, sometimes throughout hours of debate and votes.
The debate mirrors the national divide on the topic. At a Friday press conference on the coronavirus, Vice President Mike Pence deferred to freedom of speech and the right to assemble when a reporter asked whether the Trump campaign is contributing to increased cases of coronavirus by holding large indoor rallies for supporters who do not social distance or wear masks.
Pence reversed course on Sunday at a press conference in Texas where he encouraged everyone to wear masks if they cannot social distance.
The refusal to wear masks is part of a broader response from some conservatives who argue assembling with or without masks is part of their constitutional right. Most supporters attending President Donald Trump’s first indoor rally since the coronavirus did not wear masks even while both rallies in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Phoenix were held in states that are seeing an increase in cases.
At least two dozen states have experienced an uptick in coronavirus cases in recent weeks, including Florida, the new host of this year’s Republican National Convention after a Democratic lawmaker from North Carolina expressed concerns about holding the event in his state amid the pandemic.


buzzfeed--2020-03-17--24 Shocking Pictures Of NYC Before And After The Coronavirus Outbreak

The store — closed for two weeks , along with all other Apple stores outside of the `` Greater China @ @ @ @ @ 12 :

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buzzfeed--2020-03-17--These Teens Want Their Schools Closed Down To Protect Themselves And Their Families From The Coronav

These Teens Want Their Schools Closed Down To Protect Themselves And Their Families From The Coronavirus

The government announced on Monday that everyone should now be avoiding unnecessary social contact — but it said now was not the right time to close down schools , despite a number of other European countries taking that step .
`` We think at the moment on balance it 's much better if we can keep schools open , for all sorts of reasons , '' prime minister Boris Johnson said .
But Aarya , a 17-year-old from Surrey , said this was n't good enough .
She is among many students and parents across the UK lobbying the government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told BuzzFeed News : `` College is essentially a mass gathering — overall our secondary school and sixth form have over 1,500 students so , as young people most likely won ’ t have visible symptoms .
It ’ s alarming that schools are still open .
`` Although the young have been able to recover the best from the coronavirus , they are obviously very able to spread the virus to students with underlying health conditions , such as myself and friends of mine with asthma , and staff members as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a young person , has severe asthma .
`` And with something like the coronavirus , it is so new that it creates stress and anxiety for me especially because I have no idea how it could affect a young person such as myself with underlying health conditions .
`` I also have an 8-year-old brother , who is definitely healthier than me as he doesn ’ t have the blood disorder I do , but him going to school puts me at risk — because although he ’ s likely to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ infected if there were a case at his school and then come home and infect me and we don ’ t know what the consequences of that would be . ''
Aarya said the national focus appeared to be on keeping elderly people safe , and the government seemed to have forgotten there were many young people with underlying health conditions that put them at risk .

The government announced on Monday that everyone should now be avoiding unnecessary social contact — but it said now was not the right time to close down schools, despite a number of other European countries taking that step.
"We think at the moment on balance it's much better if we can keep schools open, for all sorts of reasons," prime minister Boris Johnson said.
But Aarya, a 17-year-old from Surrey, said this wasn't good enough. She is among many students and parents across the UK lobbying the government with the #closetheschoolsuknow hashtag.
She told BuzzFeed News: "College is essentially a mass gathering — overall our secondary school and sixth form have over 1,500 students so, as young people most likely won’t have visible symptoms. It’s alarming that schools are still open.
"Although the young have been able to recover the best from the coronavirus, they are obviously very able to spread the virus to students with underlying health conditions, such as myself and friends of mine with asthma, and staff members as well — one of my favourite teachers, a young person, has severe asthma.
"And with something like the coronavirus, it is so new that it creates stress and anxiety for me especially because I have no idea how it could affect a young person such as myself with underlying health conditions.
"I also have an 8-year-old brother, who is definitely healthier than me as he doesn’t have the blood disorder I do, but him going to school puts me at risk — because although he’s likely to be absolutely fine, he could potentially become infected if there were a case at his school and then come home and infect me and we don’t know what the consequences of that would be."
Aarya said the national focus appeared to be on keeping elderly people safe, and the government seemed to have forgotten there were many young people with underlying health conditions that put them at risk.


buzzfeed--2020-03-17--Travellers At UK Airports Said No One Is Telling Them What To Do Or Whether To Self-Isolate

When Roxy arrived at London ’ s Gatwick Airport on Saturday after frantically booking a flight from Barcelona , she saw guidance on the arrival video screens .
It just wasn ’ t the type she was expecting .
“ Keep African Swine fever out of the UK , ” the signs read , warning visitors not to bring pork and meat products into the country due to a disease that has `` caused the deaths of more than 800,000 pigs and wild boar across Europe.
” Roxy had been travelling for months , including throughout Spain and France , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the weekend .
But no one at Gatwick — the UK 's second busiest airport — asked Roxy any questions about where she had been .
She didn ’ t hear any relevant announcements over the loudspeaker as she went through the automated border control system , grabbed her bags , and walked out the doors .
The only signs she saw about the coronavirus before she got on the London Underground reminded her to wash her hands for 20 seconds .
“ As I recall the hand-washing sign did n't say anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Roxy , a New York resident who like others who spoke to BuzzFeed News , did not want her last name to be published .
“ I think the friend I 'm staying with is the one who told me that if you show symptoms you 're supposed to go to a specific place.
” As the European Union closes its borders to all nonessential travel and countries impose lockdowns in hopes of containing the ongoing spread of the coronavirus , travellers arriving at major UK airports say that officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any advice .
No one has told them to self-isolate .
Many are confused and dismayed by the lack of protocol , including airport employees .
One Gatwick Airport check-in agent told BuzzFeed News that she and her colleagues had not been given any instruction whatsoever .
The lack of information — for them , and to provide to travellers — is terrifying , she said .
“ No one as of now is being told to self-isolate , ” she said .
“ There is a massive hole in our protection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” She did not want to use her name because she doesn ’ t receive sick pay , but BuzzFeed News has confirmed her identity .
When the coronavirus outbreak hit Italy a few weeks ago , the UK government advised anyone returning from quarantined towns to self-isolate for 14 days .
Now there is no such guidance for people returning from hard-hit countries , even prime minister Boris Johnson has announced — based on new models suggesting hundreds of thousands of people would die without stringent social distancing — stricter measures inside @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the UK must avoid any unnecessary contact with other people .
Travel history “ is not relevant anymore , ” a spokesperson for Public Health England said , because the coronavirus is already spreading within the country .
“ The move is now for everyone to self-isolate if they have symptoms , so including those who have travelled , but everyone else too.
” She didn ’ t answer specific questions on how the guidance is enforced and monitored at international airports .
In lieu of guidance , people have been tweeting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s airports .

When Roxy arrived at London’s Gatwick Airport on Saturday after frantically booking a flight from Barcelona, she saw guidance on the arrival video screens. It just wasn’t the type she was expecting.
“Keep African Swine fever out of the UK,” the signs read, warning visitors not to bring pork and meat products into the country due to a disease that has "caused the deaths of more than 800,000 pigs and wild boar across Europe.”
Roxy had been travelling for months, including throughout Spain and France, two countries that imposed national lockdowns over the weekend. But no one at Gatwick — the UK's second busiest airport — asked Roxy any questions about where she had been. She didn’t hear any relevant announcements over the loudspeaker as she went through the automated border control system, grabbed her bags, and walked out the doors. The only signs she saw about the coronavirus before she got on the London Underground reminded her to wash her hands for 20 seconds.
“As I recall the hand-washing sign didn't say anything about special treatment protocols for the virus,” said Roxy, a New York resident who like others who spoke to BuzzFeed News, did not want her last name to be published. “I think the friend I'm staying with is the one who told me that if you show symptoms you're supposed to go to a specific place.”
As the European Union closes its borders to all nonessential travel and countries impose lockdowns in hopes of containing the ongoing spread of the coronavirus, travellers arriving at major UK airports say that officials are waving them through without giving them any advice. No one has told them to self-isolate. Many are confused and dismayed by the lack of protocol, including airport employees.
One Gatwick Airport check-in agent told BuzzFeed News that she and her colleagues had not been given any instruction whatsoever. The lack of information — for them, and to provide to travellers — is terrifying, she said. “No one as of now is being told to self-isolate,” she said. “There is a massive hole in our protection of the country which is being ignored totally.” She did not want to use her name because she doesn’t receive sick pay, but BuzzFeed News has confirmed her identity.
When the coronavirus outbreak hit Italy a few weeks ago, the UK government advised anyone returning from quarantined towns to self-isolate for 14 days. Now there is no such guidance for people returning from hard-hit countries, even prime minister Boris Johnson has announced — based on new models suggesting hundreds of thousands of people would die without stringent social distancing — stricter measures inside the UK, including warning that everyone in the UK must avoid any unnecessary contact with other people.
Travel history “is not relevant anymore,” a spokesperson for Public Health England said, because the coronavirus is already spreading within the country. “The move is now for everyone to self-isolate if they have symptoms, so including those who have travelled, but everyone else too.” She didn’t answer specific questions on how the guidance is enforced and monitored at international airports.
In lieu of guidance, people have been tweeting about their experiences at the UK’s airports.


buzzfeed--2020-03-17--24 Trips To Fantasize About While You're Social Distancing

We ’ re mindful of how the current coronavirus outbreak might be affecting your decisions to travel or go out @ @ @ @ @ We don ’ t expect you to visit all the places we ’ re sharing @ @ @ @ @ , but we hope you ’ ll find it a joyful distraction that ’ s @ @ @ @ @ worth bookmarking for a future trip .
If you do have upcoming travel , check @ @ @ @ @ see more information about travel and the coronavirus , and follow our latest coverage .

We’re mindful of how the current coronavirus outbreak might be affecting your decisions to travel or go out in your home city. We don’t expect you to visit all the places we’re sharing in our content right now, but we hope you’ll find it a joyful distraction that’s entertaining, inspiring, or worth bookmarking for a future trip.
If you do have upcoming travel, check the CDC for updates, see more information about travel and the coronavirus, and follow our latest coverage.


buzzfeed--2020-03-17--The Jury Is Literally Out On How Courts Will Function In The Coronavirus Outbreak

A courtroom at capacity can resemble a train carriage in peak hour : all seats taken , the aisle occupied by people standing shoulder to shoulder and clamouring to get in and out the door .
At a city court complex like the Downing Centre in central Sydney , an average day would see hundreds ( if not thousands ) of people file in and out : going through security ; jabbing elevator buttons ; crowding into courtrooms where a busy judge is doling out trial dates and hearing pleas ; using the bathrooms ; sitting next to each other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affixed chairs are inches apart .
The decision over the weekend to halt new jury trials in New South Wales and Victoria — Australia ’ s most populous states — was the first real COVID-19 shock to hit the justice system .
It will not be the last .
By early Tuesday , the Family Court and Federal Circuit Court in Sydney had shut down for cleaning after a lawyer tested positive .
By mid-morning , the High Court announced it wouldn ’ t be sitting in April , May or June .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ had cancelled all in-person hearings until June 30 .
Other states and territories have since also suspended new jury trials , and are trying to continue current ones with social distancing measures , like jurors sitting in the public gallery .
Lower level state courts , which handle staggering caseloads , are scrambling to figure out how to operate in an unprecedented new reality .
Melbourne solicitor-advocate Felix Ralph had a trial due to start Monday that was called off .
He said his client had been waiting `` a very long time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` As you can imagine , that causes a huge amount of stress on everyone involved in the case , to the accused person , to the witnesses , to any victims as well , '' he said .
`` It ’ s a huge emotional toll that it takes . ''
Abdullah Reslan , a Sydney-based solicitor with Kings Law Group , said things are already changing .
`` A number of courts have permitted electronic appearances in particular matters , which I have found to be beneficial and effective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
`` I have found the courts are generally less congested , in particular the Downing Centre , which is usually buzzing with life . ''
Some knock-on effects of new the trial ban on the criminal justice system are immediately clear , says barrister and Australian Lawyers Alliance spokesperson Greg Barns .
One , bail applications will skyrocket .
Two , trial planning — a delicate dance of calendars at the best of times — will be `` thrown into chaos '' .
Three , overcrowding in prisons will worsen .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ particularly in sexual abuse cases — a lot of them are historical , and people go to jail in their 70s and 80s , '' he said .
`` There is a high risk of serious illness and death within the prison system because it ’ s extremely difficult to self isolate in that environment . ''
People on remand ( who didn ’ t get bail and are awaiting trial in custody ) make up an increasing number of prisoners in Australia and may have to wait even longer to have their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ month delay already standard in Victoria .
`` There are likely to be a large number of bail applications because ... if a person ’ s trial is pushed back into next year and , let ’ s say they get convicted , it might be they do more time [ on remand ] than they would have if they got sentenced now , '' Barns said .
People not in custody `` will have to continue to sit on their hands and remain in a state of anxiety until their case is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ News that bail will be a defining issue in the coming weeks .
You don ’ t have unlimited shots at bail , and if you have exhausted appeals then you usually have to prove new circumstances before being let out .
Whether the coronavirus qualifies is yet to be determined .
The cancellation of jury trials is a particular problem in Victoria , Tasmania and the Northern Territory , Barns said , where current laws don ’ t allow for judge-alone trials — an option that would at least mean more opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In other states , defendants can elect for a judge-alone trial , though criteria varies .

A courtroom at capacity can resemble a train carriage in peak hour: all seats taken, the aisle occupied by people standing shoulder to shoulder and clamouring to get in and out the door.
At a city court complex like the Downing Centre in central Sydney, an average day would see hundreds (if not thousands) of people file in and out: going through security; jabbing elevator buttons; crowding into courtrooms where a busy judge is doling out trial dates and hearing pleas; using the bathrooms; sitting next to each other in the jury box, where the affixed chairs are inches apart.
Now add the coronavirus.
The decision over the weekend to halt new jury trials in New South Wales and Victoria — Australia’s most populous states — was the first real COVID-19 shock to hit the justice system. It will not be the last. By early Tuesday, the Family Court and Federal Circuit Court in Sydney had shut down for cleaning after a lawyer tested positive. By mid-morning, the High Court announced it wouldn’t be sitting in April, May or June. By the evening, the Federal Court had cancelled all in-person hearings until June 30.
Other states and territories have since also suspended new jury trials, and are trying to continue current ones with social distancing measures, like jurors sitting in the public gallery. Lower level state courts, which handle staggering caseloads, are scrambling to figure out how to operate in an unprecedented new reality.
Melbourne solicitor-advocate Felix Ralph had a trial due to start Monday that was called off. He said his client had been waiting "a very long time to get it over and done with".
"As you can imagine, that causes a huge amount of stress on everyone involved in the case, to the accused person, to the witnesses, to any victims as well," he said. "It’s a huge emotional toll that it takes."
Abdullah Reslan, a Sydney-based solicitor with Kings Law Group, said things are already changing.
"A number of courts have permitted electronic appearances in particular matters, which I have found to be beneficial and effective in the circumstances," he said. "I have found the courts are generally less congested, in particular the Downing Centre, which is usually buzzing with life."
Some knock-on effects of new the trial ban on the criminal justice system are immediately clear, says barrister and Australian Lawyers Alliance spokesperson Greg Barns. One, bail applications will skyrocket. Two, trial planning — a delicate dance of calendars at the best of times — will be "thrown into chaos". Three, overcrowding in prisons will worsen.
"We have an ageing prison population, particularly in sexual abuse cases — a lot of them are historical, and people go to jail in their 70s and 80s," he said. "There is a high risk of serious illness and death within the prison system because it’s extremely difficult to self isolate in that environment."
People on remand (who didn’t get bail and are awaiting trial in custody) make up an increasing number of prisoners in Australia and may have to wait even longer to have their innocence or guilt determined than the 12-18 month delay already standard in Victoria.
"There are likely to be a large number of bail applications because ... if a person’s trial is pushed back into next year and, let’s say they get convicted, it might be they do more time [on remand] than they would have if they got sentenced now," Barns said. People not in custody "will have to continue to sit on their hands and remain in a state of anxiety until their case is heard".
Numerous lawyers told BuzzFeed News that bail will be a defining issue in the coming weeks.
You don’t have unlimited shots at bail, and if you have exhausted appeals then you usually have to prove new circumstances before being let out. Whether the coronavirus qualifies is yet to be determined.
The cancellation of jury trials is a particular problem in Victoria, Tasmania and the Northern Territory, Barns said, where current laws don’t allow for judge-alone trials — an option that would at least mean more opportunity for social distancing in the courtroom. In other states, defendants can elect for a judge-alone trial, though criteria varies.


buzzfeed--2020-04-23--News O'Clock: Wait, Trump Did WHAT About Immigration?

Check out the full episode transcript below !
Casey Rackham : The first COVID-19 death in the US was earlier than we thought .
So , yikes !
Even Elmo 's dad is tired of dealing with his kid every day .
And Trump says that he 's shutting down immigration because of the coronavirus .
But what 's actually happening ?
We 've got BuzzFeed News immigration reporter , Hamed Aleaziz , on to tell us .
CR : And I 'm Casey Rackham .
Welcome to News O'Clock .
HB : How are you doing today , Casey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You 're doing okay ?
CR : You know , honestly , we had an earthquake very early in the morning in California .
And it was actually a pretty scary one .
I 'll say , first of all , it was only a 3.8 .
I do n't know what only means to various people throughout the country , but it 's lower scale than Southern California people are used to .
But it was in Windsor Hills , which is very close to where I am in Los Angeles .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ really long time .
I got so many texts from friends .
People were rushing to put their shoes on .
One of my friends thought it was the big one .
CR : It was startling .
And Hayes , all on Earth Day HB : It 's fitting .
I have never been in an earthquake .
The one earthquake that happened in the place where I was living , I was out of town that day .
So , I have no point of reference for what a 3.8 feels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though .
CR : Yeah .
I do n't want to bore you .
I have so many earthquake stories I could tell .
But to put that into perspective , I did live in California for the Northridge earthquake in 1994 and I believe that was a 6.7 , and that was catastrophic for Los Angeles .
So , 3.8 is lower , but I think just because the epicenter was so close , it felt a little bit bigger .
HB : So , there was a tornado warning in New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is definitely trying to double kill us on top of the virus .
CR : What is that about ?
I did n't know .
I was so shocked to see that .
HB : We 've probably earned it .
Okay .
I pay to keep piling on like this , but it 's time for the [ Corona Minute 00:02:10 ] .
Can we get one minute on the clock ?
CR : Here we go .
On your marks , get set , and go .
HB : So , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ States was earlier than we thought , which is not so great .
So , two people who died in February in California , Santa Clara County , had COVID-19 .
One died on February 6th , one died on February 17th .
This is weeks before we thought that there were cases that were actually killing people in the US .
So , it 's good to know that now ; it would have been nice to know that then .
HB : Meanwhile , the Senate passed a new $ 400 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the funds for the small business loans program that ran out earlier this week .
The bill does not contain any provisions on food stamps or anything like that .
It does provide more money for testing for coronavirus , which I guess is a win .
The bill now goes onto the house , which is likely to pass it remotely .
They 're working out how they 're going to manage that right now .
HB : Jumping outside of the US , Singapore is not doing great after being pretty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Back at the beginning , Singapore was being widely praised for its early response , and in mid March it only had about 300 cases .
As of Tuesday , there were 9,000 cases , mostly migrant workers who were being packed into dorms and are taking the hit due to those close quarters .
So , that 's the Corona Minute .
Was it a minute this time ?
CR : I honestly think you were under a minute , but I have to say so much was packed in there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the first death was earlier than we thought , around February 6th or in between February 17th , and my first thought is actually I do n't remember what date that is .
I know I see the date in front of me , but I do n't know when that was logically .
HB : Right .
Ironically enough , I think February 6th was one of the last days of Trump 's impeachment trial .
So , that was going on at the same time .
CR : Well , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minute and how much joy it brings me , it 's time for today 's good news , bad news .
And this is where I bring you some of the most 'aww ' and most 'my God !
No ' stories from around the internet .
CR : Well , good news for any parents that are feeling stressed by the lack of school and daycare services and having their kids around all the goddamn time .
You 're not alone .
And even Elmo 's dad is sick of his son @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do n't know Elmo 's dad , his name 's Louie .
He was introduced in 2006 for a video for kids of military vets .
And recently , Sesame Street released a PSA , last week , for parents that is beyond relatable , even for us .
Louie : I just want to say- Elmo : Daddy , can you help Elmo make a pillow [ inaudible 00:04:42 ] please ?
Louie : Just a second , Elmo .
I 'll be right there , son .
It 's wonderful to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our children , but it can also be a bit overwhelming .
CR : He goes on to lead parents in some deep calming breaths .
And honestly , just telling parents to take some time for their selves because they deserve it , which is so , so true .
But Louie wo n't have to stress for too much longer , because Elmo is going to be busy moving forward , announced yesterday .
He 's going to be hosting The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo on HBO Max .
HB : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to that .
Elmo is having his own show .
Does n't Elmo technically already have his own show inside of Sesame Street though ?
Why are we giving him more ?
CR : He deserves it Hayes .
Okay ?
And I also just love that they 're calling it The Not-Too-Late Show because Elmo 's bedtime is 7:30 PM .
HB : That 's really cute .
And also , I would love to have a 7:30 PM bedtime , I think , moving forward .
That would be delightful .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ going back to Louie , I think that we need more earnest Sesame Street for adults .
We 've had plenty of adult parodies of Sesame Street , but I want just a real-ass calming Sesame Street for me .
Thank you .
CR : Not even calming .
During this time , I mean , it 's when you really realize who 's jerks and who are n't jerks .
And I think that Sesame Street for adults could be a good back-to-basic situation for all of us .
HB : Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shout-out to new BuzzFeed News dads , Joe Bernstein and Gabe Sanchez , who both had babies this week .
CR : And shout out to our Parents team over on buzzfeed.com who are full-time writers , parents and teachers .
My God !
What a job you guys have right now !
CR : Yes , bless them all .
And now onto the bad news .
For anyone who enjoys music and joy and fun , the movie adaptation of the Broadway hit , In the Heights , wo n't be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reporter says it will now come out June 2021 .
It was originally pushed back from its June 2020 release at the start of this pandemic , and now had to be pushed back even further , but for a good reason .
CR : Director Jon Chu tweeted that the crew and studio decided the best time to release In the Heights movie is next summer when people will feel the most comfortable celebrating in a movie theater together .
He went on to say , `` I know it 's much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Heights movie did n't take 10 years to get made , only to be left in half-empty theaters without the crowd it deserves . ''
CR : And I could n't agree more .
In case you do n't know , Jon Chu also directed Crazy Rich Asians and he knows how to put on ... My God !
Just a fantastic experience for all of your senses .
It 's definitely a movie that 's going to want to be seen in theaters .
And I ca n't wait for next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like the joy that 's going to be felt in that room just because of the amazing hit that the Broadway musical was and just how amazing the movie is sure to be .
HB : I am so stoked to see that because New York was hype for this movie .
The Heights is right over there .
I 'm in East Harlem , so across the island from me mostly is where the movie takes place .
So , it was going to be just a really big deal when it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am also crushed .
CR : I cried during that trailer , so ... And I love crying ; fun fact about me .
So , I can not wait for this movie .
Okay .
When we come back , we have Hamed Aleaziz to tell us what the hell Trump 's latest immigration order means .
Wait right there .
HB : Welcome back .
It 's time for Say More .
This is where we get to talk some of the best people out there and to spending some quality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Monday , the president tweeted out that he was shutting down immigration because of the coronavirus , which left us all going , `` What ? ''
Trump then explained his thinking more yesterday , which left us all going , `` What ? ''
Times two .
HB : Thank God we have someone on today who has some insight into what the hell is happening here .
BuzzFeed News immigration reporter , Hamed Aleaziz .
Hello , Hamed .
Hamed Aleaziz : Hi , how are you guys doing ?
HB @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , given the everything .
So , the president 's tweet on Monday , it 's safe to say it was n't part of a well-planned rollout of a new policy .
HA : Yeah , I mean , I think it 's fair to say that it took a lot of people by surprise , including those within the Department of Homeland Security , who would theoretically be charged with enforcing such a theoretical policy .
And here we are , on Wednesday , two days later after his tweet .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this executive order will look like , who it will affect .
CR : Like you said , we 're recording this on Wednesday afternoon .
Has anything officially changed yet or we 're just waiting to see what 's coming next ?
HA : We 're still waiting to see what comes next .
I mean , yesterday the president said the order was still being written .
Earlier today , it appear the White House officials were saying that it still needed to be cleared by lawyers , the DOJ at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have not seen any firm policy , any order , no guidance sent to officers who would be charged with implementing such a policy .
So , again , we really do n't know what the situation is .
HB : I mean , it seems like a big deal to shut down immigration , as the president said , without doing all of these things .
So , I guess , explain to me like I am a toddler right now .
Based on what we know , which as you said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and would not be allowed to come into the United States under this policy ?
HA : So , without the details , it 's hard to be so specific .
But , yesterday the president did say that this would focus on individuals who were seeking green cards .
And to give a little context , immigrants who come to the country to live permanently generally obtain these visas , these green cards through their relationships with family members who are already US citizens or green card holders themselves .
HA : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ visas because they 've got extraordinary abilities in the arts and sciences or are highly specialized workers and are sponsored by their employers .
And each year , around a million of these green cards are generally handed out .
About half of those are people who are already in the US , and then another half are those who are outside of the US .
HA : So , we still need to know , is this policy going to affect the people who are outside of the US hoping to come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affect those who are on temporary visas in the US and hoping to stay permanently ?
As of now , I 'm fielding messages from people who are worried , panicked , asking questions on , how is this going to affect me ?
Do you think I 'm not going to be able to get my green card ?
So , in the wake of this lack of clarity , there 's a lot of fear .
CR : President Trump basically said that this move was necessary because of the need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any evidence out there that would make that statement true ?
HA : Yeah , I mean , I think this is really an argument between advocates and immigration restrictionist , but I will say I did think it was very notable that the Wall Street Journal editorial board pointed to the study today .
They were criticizing this attempt by President Trump to focus on this immigration order .
And they pointed at a study that said that having more immigrants reduces the unemployment rate and raises the labor force participation rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and education group in these specific areas .
HA : On another level , Trump took a moment to explain in his press conference that farmers would n't be effected and those coming to the US temporarily would not be impacted .
These are the agricultural workers who come to the US every year , who work for a year at a time and really stabilize the food market .
And that 's especially important given the pandemic and the issues we face .
HB : I 'm just still confused though .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ is because we need to shut things down because of the coronavirus coming in and shut down jobs , why is the focus then on people who are going to be trying to get green cards , come here permanently ?
These things do n't really line up in my head .
HA : I mean , one thing that people have pointed out , advocates have pointed out is , they believe that President Trump and those around him are taking advantage of this crisis to push policies they 've long wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now looking and potentially cutting down on the number of green cards allowed given to prospective immigrants .
So , again , this is a really sticky situation .
CR : So , it can obviously be hard to focus on everything happening right now .
So , what 's the one thing that most people do n't realize is happening in the world of immigration right now ?
HA : I think the biggest thing is , in one day , the administration extended this order by the CDC that essentially bars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country without authorization .
And what that does is it effectively bars asylum at the southern border .
So , people are being turned around really quickly .
HA : And more importantly , advocates point to unaccompanied immigrant children at the border who would usually be allowed to enter the US , be sent to a US government shelter , have an opportunity to connect with family who are already in the US and apply for asylum .
What 's happened as a result of this CDC order is these children @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sent back to their countries in Central America .
This is an issue that has n't really been highlighted , but has really worried those in the immigrant community .
HB : Everything is so much .
So , really quickly though , Hamed , your bit has really focused on how immigration is enforced inside the US .
What 's the biggest change you 've seen since the outbreak of COVID-19 ?
HA : The biggest change .
For me , it 's probably going to be the fact that immigration courts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are n't currently in custody .
Basically , they 've postponed these hearings for months out until whenever the pandemic is controlled .
This has affected people who are applying for asylum in the courts , who are facing deportation .
Obviously , the immigration courts have this massive backlog , over a million cases .
So , this is going to only expand it further .
CR : Well , your calm voice is so appreciated .
Thank you so much for joining us today .
HA : Thank you for having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the list because if you know BuzzFeed at all and you know how much we love lists .
And today , we 've got four ways to celebrate Earth Day while you 're trapped inside .
HB : Today is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day .
That 's good .
But the world has warmed 2.4 degrees Celsius since then and that 's very bad .
CR : Yes it is .
And since going out and appreciating the nature we still have is n't exactly advisable right now , here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Earth Day while safe inside .
Number one , give your electronics and your eyes a break today .
Honestly , power down .
We 're all using a lot from staying home right now , and the less electricity we can use , the better .
HB : Number two , check to see if your power company has a green option .
This is n't a thing that 's everywhere , but a lot of power companies out there do offer the ability to purchase energy from green suppliers .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Number three , tend to your house plant or your many , many house plants .
So many people adopted plants at the start of this .
So , today , give them some extra love or if you 're over-watering , just appreciate them from a distance .
HB : And number four , I would say make dinner tonight meatless .
Carbon emissions from factory farms are just absolutely [ bunker-balls 00:00:17:16 ] huge .
So , make tonight 's dinner veges-forward as a thank you to the Earth .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that corporations are the biggest problems with climate change , but every little bit helps is how we feel about it here .
CR : You are very correct , it is .
But you know what ?
Anything to make us feel like we 're doing literally anything helpful at this moment , I think , would brighten everyone 's days .
CR : We do need Captain Planet back .
I think Captain Planet would love my apartment because I 'm currently surrounded by so many house plants .
HB : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... No !
I think we 're up to almost a dozen in here .
Most of them are not over-watered at this point , but it 's been a year of learning , let 's put it that way .
CR : Okay .
And I definitely do n't know the science about this , especially because what I 'm about to tell you is from a Grey 's Anatomy op , but in Grey 's Anatomy they have this room that they created that 's supposed to be this extremely calming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You walk in and it is just plants , foliage , trees everywhere .
And a lot of times the characters will go in there when they have to tell another character really bad news , so they 're in a really healthy mindset before it happens .
So , anyways , surround yourself by plants .
I mean , surround yourself with plants .
CR : Okay .
So , for everyone out there , did you celebrate Earth Day today ?
If so , we want to know how .
Open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phone , hit record , then send yours to us at newsoclock @ buzzfeed.com .
That 's , newsoclock , one word , @ buzzfeed.com .
Or you can DM us on Twitter .
We 're @ Newsoclock , all one word .
Be sure to let us know where you 're sending yours in from .
We 're gathering all of the best editions to our list that you send in throughout the week and we 'll be compiling them into one mega list .
So , keep an ear out for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for one more thing , because we can not let you go until we tell you about this .
First though , a confession .
I do n't actually play Animal Crossing : New Horizons .
CR : And I ca n't even be mad at you for a second because I do n't play either .
HB : We are the worst .
We 're the absolute worst .
My excuse , we 're an X-Box household , so I 've just been watching everyone play with some very real FOMO .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ sad for both of us , but I do n't even have an excuse because I have a switch , but the reason is that all of my friends are straight up addicted to Animal Crossing and I 'm genuinely afraid that I 'll get addicted and it 'll take over my life .
HB : That 's a very real fear .
I see this happening , but I have been online enough to basically get the gist of it , sort of .
CR : Okay , yes .
From what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a capitalist raccoon who loves money .
HB : That was my takeaway too , that Tom Nook is a shady as hell raccoon dog who owns your entire island , lends you money at exorbitant rates .
You fish and get frustrated and you decorate your house with random things .
And I think that 's the game .
I think that 's it .
CR : Well , since no one is here to correct us , what we have described as Animal Crossing is the correct answer .
HB : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because yesterday on Twitter , I was blessed to come across this on my timeline .
It 's a song called Tom Nook Style Beat , and it 's fucking fire .
Here , take a listen .
( singing ) CR : This video pushes forward that we were correct about this capitalist raccoon .
He really loves money according to this video .
It 's flying everywhere .
HB : Man !
I love good nerd music .
I 'm not going to lie .
If your music references cartoons , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a great artist who I first heard of because he 's sampled Buff Baby , which is a clip of a song from Adventure Time .
So , that sort of thing is entirely my jam .
CR : Okay .
Well , I think everyone is probably in agreement that you 're going to need to make us a playlist .
HB : Gosh !
I do n't know how Spotify works .
I 'm an old .
Are you kidding me ?
So , I will do my best and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ switch so that I can stop having FOMO and learn what a Tom Nook actually is .
CR : Okay .
Good plan .
That 's it for today .
Join us tomorrow for a check-in with BuzzFeed Parents editor , Mike Spohr , for tips and survival techniques when you 're at home with your child and/or multiple children during the lockdown .
HB : And remember , if you 're going to plant a tree today , make sure it 's a specimen .
Donald Trump : But they 'll be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ admiring nine more trees .
We 're planting 10 beautiful specimen trees .
They 're specimens , all specimens .
People may think that 's an exaggeration or that 's a Trump term .
Actually , they 're sold as specimens .
They cost more money , but they are better .
CR : Be sure to subscribe to News O'Clock on the iHeartRadio app , Apple Podcasts or wherever you go for your sound stories .
HB : And please , take the time to leave us a rating and a review @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you 'd like about the show versus what you love about the show , what can change , what you must insist that we will never change .
Also , tell your friends about us and have them set their alarms to make sure that they never miss News O'Clock .

Check out the full episode transcript below!
Casey Rackham: The first COVID-19 death in the US was earlier than we thought. So, yikes! Even Elmo's dad is tired of dealing with his kid every day. And Trump says that he's shutting down immigration because of the coronavirus. But what's actually happening? We've got BuzzFeed News immigration reporter, Hamed Aleaziz, on to tell us.
Hayes Brown: The date, April 22nd, 2020.
CR: The time, News O'Clock.
HB: Good afternoon. I'm Hayes Brown.
CR: And I'm Casey Rackham. Welcome to News O'Clock.
HB: How are you doing today, Casey? How are you holding up? You're doing okay?
CR: You know, honestly, we had an earthquake very early in the morning in California. And it was actually a pretty scary one. I'll say, first of all, it was only a 3.8. I don't know what only means to various people throughout the country, but it's lower scale than Southern California people are used to. But it was in Windsor Hills, which is very close to where I am in Los Angeles. And it shook my dresser for a really long time. I got so many texts from friends. People were rushing to put their shoes on. One of my friends thought it was the big one.
HB: No.
CR: It was startling. And Hayes, all on Earth Day
HB: It's fitting. I have never been in an earthquake. The one earthquake that happened in the place where I was living, I was out of town that day. So, I have no point of reference for what a 3.8 feels like. I am assuming bad, though.
CR: Yeah. I don't want to bore you. I have so many earthquake stories I could tell. But to put that into perspective, I did live in California for the Northridge earthquake in 1994 and I believe that was a 6.7, and that was catastrophic for Los Angeles. So, 3.8 is lower, but I think just because the epicenter was so close, it felt a little bit bigger.
HB: So, there was a tornado warning in New York City yesterday. So, nature is definitely trying to double kill us on top of the virus.
CR: What is that about? I didn't know. I was so shocked to see that.
HB: We've probably earned it. Okay. I pay to keep piling on like this, but it's time for the [Corona Minute 00:02:10]. Can we get one minute on the clock?
CR: Here we go. On your marks, get set, and go.
HB: So, the first COVID death in the United States was earlier than we thought, which is not so great. So, two people who died in February in California, Santa Clara County, had COVID-19. One died on February 6th, one died on February 17th. This is weeks before we thought that there were cases that were actually killing people in the US. So, it's good to know that now; it would have been nice to know that then.
HB: Meanwhile, the Senate passed a new $400 billion plus spending bill that would replenish the funds for the small business loans program that ran out earlier this week. The bill does not contain any provisions on food stamps or anything like that. It does provide more money for testing for coronavirus, which I guess is a win. The bill now goes onto the house, which is likely to pass it remotely. They're working out how they're going to manage that right now.
HB: Jumping outside of the US, Singapore is not doing great after being pretty chill at the start of this crisis. Back at the beginning, Singapore was being widely praised for its early response, and in mid March it only had about 300 cases. As of Tuesday, there were 9,000 cases, mostly migrant workers who were being packed into dorms and are taking the hit due to those close quarters. So, that's the Corona Minute. Was it a minute this time?
CR: I honestly think you were under a minute, but I have to say so much was packed in there. I was thinking about how you said the first death was earlier than we thought, around February 6th or in between February 17th, and my first thought is actually I don't remember what date that is. I know I see the date in front of me, but I don't know when that was logically.
HB: Right. Ironically enough, I think February 6th was one of the last days of Trump's impeachment trial. So, that was going on at the same time.
CR: Well, as much as I love your Corona Minute and how much joy it brings me, it's time for today's good news, bad news. And this is where I bring you some of the most 'aww' and most 'my God! No' stories from around the internet.
HB: All right. What's good today?
CR: Well, good news for any parents that are feeling stressed by the lack of school and daycare services and having their kids around all the goddamn time. You're not alone. And even Elmo's dad is sick of his son's shit. So, if you don't know Elmo's dad, his name's Louie. He was introduced in 2006 for a video for kids of military vets. And recently, Sesame Street released a PSA, last week, for parents that is beyond relatable, even for us.
Louie: I just want to say-
Elmo: Daddy, can you help Elmo make a pillow [inaudible 00:04:42] please?
Louie: Just a second, Elmo. I'll be right there, son. It's wonderful to get to spend so much time with our children, but it can also be a bit overwhelming.
CR: He goes on to lead parents in some deep calming breaths. And honestly, just telling parents to take some time for their selves because they deserve it, which is so, so true. But Louie won't have to stress for too much longer, because Elmo is going to be busy moving forward, announced yesterday. He's going to be hosting The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo on HBO Max.
HB: I don't know how to respond to that. Elmo is having his own show. Doesn't Elmo technically already have his own show inside of Sesame Street though? Why are we giving him more?
CR: He deserves it Hayes. Okay? And I also just love that they're calling it The Not-Too-Late Show because Elmo's bedtime is 7:30 PM.
HB: That's really cute. And also, I would love to have a 7:30 PM bedtime, I think, moving forward. That would be delightful. I would love that. Honestly, going back to Louie, I think that we need more earnest Sesame Street for adults. We've had plenty of adult parodies of Sesame Street, but I want just a real-ass calming Sesame Street for me. Thank you.
CR: Not even calming. During this time, I mean, it's when you really realize who's jerks and who aren't jerks. And I think that Sesame Street for adults could be a good back-to-basic situation for all of us.
HB: Speaking of not jerks, a really quickly shout-out to new BuzzFeed News dads, Joe Bernstein and Gabe Sanchez, who both had babies this week.
CR: And shout out to our Parents team over on buzzfeed.com who are full-time writers, parents and teachers. My God! What a job you guys have right now!
HB: Bless them all.
CR: Yes, bless them all. And now onto the bad news. For anyone who enjoys music and joy and fun, the movie adaptation of the Broadway hit, In the Heights, won't be released this year at all. Hollywood reporter says it will now come out June 2021. It was originally pushed back from its June 2020 release at the start of this pandemic, and now had to be pushed back even further, but for a good reason.
CR: Director Jon Chu tweeted that the crew and studio decided the best time to release In the Heights movie is next summer when people will feel the most comfortable celebrating in a movie theater together. He went on to say, "I know it's much later than we wanted, but In the Heights movie didn't take 10 years to get made, only to be left in half-empty theaters without the crowd it deserves."
CR: And I couldn't agree more. In case you don't know, Jon Chu also directed Crazy Rich Asians and he knows how to put on... My God! Just a fantastic experience for all of your senses. It's definitely a movie that's going to want to be seen in theaters. And I can't wait for next summer just to like... I feel like the joy that's going to be felt in that room just because of the amazing hit that the Broadway musical was and just how amazing the movie is sure to be.
HB: I am so stoked to see that because New York was hype for this movie. The Heights is right over there. I'm in East Harlem, so across the island from me mostly is where the movie takes place. So, it was going to be just a really big deal when it came out here. So, I am also crushed.
CR: I cried during that trailer, so... And I love crying; fun fact about me. So, I cannot wait for this movie. Okay. When we come back, we have Hamed Aleaziz to tell us what the hell Trump's latest immigration order means. Wait right there.
HB: Welcome back. It's time for Say More. This is where we get to talk some of the best people out there and to spending some quality time with us.
CR: On Monday, the president tweeted out that he was shutting down immigration because of the coronavirus, which left us all going, "What?" Trump then explained his thinking more yesterday, which left us all going, "What?" Times two.
HB: Thank God we have someone on today who has some insight into what the hell is happening here. BuzzFeed News immigration reporter, Hamed Aleaziz. Hello, Hamed.
Hamed Aleaziz: Hi, how are you guys doing?
HB: Not too bad, I suppose, given the everything. So, the president's tweet on Monday, it's safe to say it wasn't part of a well-planned rollout of a new policy.
HA: Yeah, I mean, I think it's fair to say that it took a lot of people by surprise, including those within the Department of Homeland Security, who would theoretically be charged with enforcing such a theoretical policy. And here we are, on Wednesday, two days later after his tweet. We still have no firm details on what this executive order will look like, who it will affect.
CR: Like you said, we're recording this on Wednesday afternoon. Has anything officially changed yet or we're just waiting to see what's coming next?
HA: We're still waiting to see what comes next. I mean, yesterday the president said the order was still being written. Earlier today, it appear the White House officials were saying that it still needed to be cleared by lawyers, the DOJ at the White House. And we still have not seen any firm policy, any order, no guidance sent to officers who would be charged with implementing such a policy. So, again, we really don't know what the situation is.
HB: I mean, it seems like a big deal to shut down immigration, as the president said, without doing all of these things. So, I guess, explain to me like I am a toddler right now. Based on what we know, which as you said is not very much, who would and would not be allowed to come into the United States under this policy?
HA: So, without the details, it's hard to be so specific. But, yesterday the president did say that this would focus on individuals who were seeking green cards. And to give a little context, immigrants who come to the country to live permanently generally obtain these visas, these green cards through their relationships with family members who are already US citizens or green card holders themselves.
HA: Some people are able to obtain these visas because they've got extraordinary abilities in the arts and sciences or are highly specialized workers and are sponsored by their employers. And each year, around a million of these green cards are generally handed out. About half of those are people who are already in the US, and then another half are those who are outside of the US.
HA: So, we still need to know, is this policy going to affect the people who are outside of the US hoping to come here? Or is this going to affect those who are on temporary visas in the US and hoping to stay permanently? As of now, I'm fielding messages from people who are worried, panicked, asking questions on, how is this going to affect me? Do you think I'm not going to be able to get my green card? So, in the wake of this lack of clarity, there's a lot of fear.
CR: President Trump basically said that this move was necessary because of the need to protect American jobs. Is there any evidence out there that would make that statement true?
HA: Yeah, I mean, I think this is really an argument between advocates and immigration restrictionist, but I will say I did think it was very notable that the Wall Street Journal editorial board pointed to the study today. They were criticizing this attempt by President Trump to focus on this immigration order. And they pointed at a study that said that having more immigrants reduces the unemployment rate and raises the labor force participation rate of US natives within the same sex and education group in these specific areas.
HA: On another level, Trump took a moment to explain in his press conference that farmers wouldn't be effected and those coming to the US temporarily would not be impacted. These are the agricultural workers who come to the US every year, who work for a year at a time and really stabilize the food market. And that's especially important given the pandemic and the issues we face.
HB: I'm just still confused though. I mean, if this whole order is because we need to shut things down because of the coronavirus coming in and shut down jobs, why is the focus then on people who are going to be trying to get green cards, come here permanently? These things don't really line up in my head.
HA: I mean, one thing that people have pointed out, advocates have pointed out is, they believe that President Trump and those around him are taking advantage of this crisis to push policies they've long wanted; blocking asylum at the border and now looking and potentially cutting down on the number of green cards allowed given to prospective immigrants. So, again, this is a really sticky situation.
CR: So, it can obviously be hard to focus on everything happening right now. So, what's the one thing that most people don't realize is happening in the world of immigration right now?
HA: I think the biggest thing is, in one day, the administration extended this order by the CDC that essentially bars the entry of anybody who crosses into the country without authorization. And what that does is it effectively bars asylum at the southern border. So, people are being turned around really quickly.
HA: And more importantly, advocates point to unaccompanied immigrant children at the border who would usually be allowed to enter the US, be sent to a US government shelter, have an opportunity to connect with family who are already in the US and apply for asylum. What's happened as a result of this CDC order is these children are being also turned around quickly and sent back to their countries in Central America. This is an issue that hasn't really been highlighted, but has really worried those in the immigrant community.
HB: Everything is so much. So, really quickly though, Hamed, your bit has really focused on how immigration is enforced inside the US. What's the biggest change you've seen since the outbreak of COVID-19?
HA: The biggest change. For me, it's probably going to be the fact that immigration courts have suspended the hearings of people who aren't currently in custody. Basically, they've postponed these hearings for months out until whenever the pandemic is controlled. This has affected people who are applying for asylum in the courts, who are facing deportation. Obviously, the immigration courts have this massive backlog, over a million cases. So, this is going to only expand it further.
CR: Well, your calm voice is so appreciated. Thank you so much for joining us today.
HA: Thank you for having me.
CR: It's time for the list because if you know BuzzFeed at all and you know how much we love lists. And today, we've got four ways to celebrate Earth Day while you're trapped inside.
HB: Today is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. That's good. But the world has warmed 2.4 degrees Celsius since then and that's very bad.
CR: Yes it is. And since going out and appreciating the nature we still have isn't exactly advisable right now, here's four ways you can still celebrate Earth Day while safe inside. Number one, give your electronics and your eyes a break today. Honestly, power down. We're all using a lot from staying home right now, and the less electricity we can use, the better.
HB: Number two, check to see if your power company has a green option. This isn't a thing that's everywhere, but a lot of power companies out there do offer the ability to purchase energy from green suppliers. So, check that out.
CR: Number three, tend to your house plant or your many, many house plants. So many people adopted plants at the start of this. So, today, give them some extra love or if you're over-watering, just appreciate them from a distance.
HB: And number four, I would say make dinner tonight meatless. Carbon emissions from factory farms are just absolutely [bunker-balls 00:00:17:16] huge. So, make tonight's dinner veges-forward as a thank you to the Earth. I mean, and yes, we know that corporations are the biggest problems with climate change, but every little bit helps is how we feel about it here.
CR: You are very correct, it is. But you know what? Anything to make us feel like we're doing literally anything helpful at this moment, I think, would brighten everyone's days.
HB: We need Captain Planet back.
CR: We do need Captain Planet back. I think Captain Planet would love my apartment because I'm currently surrounded by so many house plants.
HB: I mean, same. We have... No! I think we're up to almost a dozen in here. Most of them are not over-watered at this point, but it's been a year of learning, let's put it that way.
CR: Okay. And I definitely don't know the science about this, especially because what I'm about to tell you is from a Grey's Anatomy op, but in Grey's Anatomy they have this room that they created that's supposed to be this extremely calming room, that is literally just... You walk in and it is just plants, foliage, trees everywhere. And a lot of times the characters will go in there when they have to tell another character really bad news, so they're in a really healthy mindset before it happens. So, anyways, surround yourself by plants. I mean, surround yourself with plants.
HB: Very strong Earth Day tip.
CR: Okay. So, for everyone out there, did you celebrate Earth Day today? If so, we want to know how. Open up the Voice Memos app on your phone, hit record, then send yours to us at newsoclock@buzzfeed.com. That's, newsoclock, one word, @buzzfeed.com. Or you can DM us on Twitter. We're @Newsoclock, all one word. Be sure to let us know where you're sending yours in from. We're gathering all of the best editions to our list that you send in throughout the week and we'll be compiling them into one mega list. So, keep an ear out for yours.
HB: Okay, time for one more thing, because we cannot let you go until we tell you about this. First though, a confession. I don't actually play Animal Crossing: New Horizons.
CR: And I can't even be mad at you for a second because I don't play either.
HB: We are the worst. We're the absolute worst. My excuse, we're an X-Box household, so I've just been watching everyone play with some very real FOMO.
CR: No, I'm seriously sad for both of us, but I don't even have an excuse because I have a switch, but the reason is that all of my friends are straight up addicted to Animal Crossing and I'm genuinely afraid that I'll get addicted and it'll take over my life.
HB: That's a very real fear. I see this happening, but I have been online enough to basically get the gist of it, sort of.
CR: Okay, yes. From what I've gathered, it's about a capitalist raccoon who loves money.
HB: That was my takeaway too, that Tom Nook is a shady as hell raccoon dog who owns your entire island, lends you money at exorbitant rates. You fish and get frustrated and you decorate your house with random things. And I think that's the game. I think that's it.
CR: Well, since no one is here to correct us, what we have described as Animal Crossing is the correct answer.
HB: Anyway, I bring all this up because yesterday on Twitter, I was blessed to come across this on my timeline. It's a song called Tom Nook Style Beat, and it's fucking fire. Here, take a listen. (singing)
CR: This video pushes forward that we were correct about this capitalist raccoon. He really loves money according to this video. It's flying everywhere.
HB: Man! I love good nerd music. I'm not going to lie. If your music references cartoons, I'm here for. Tobi Lou is a great artist who I first heard of because he's sampled Buff Baby, which is a clip of a song from Adventure Time. So, that sort of thing is entirely my jam.
CR: Okay. Well, I think everyone is probably in agreement that you're going to need to make us a playlist.
HB: Gosh! I don't know how Spotify works. I'm an old. Are you kidding me? So, I will do my best and maybe one day I will get a switch so that I can stop having FOMO and learn what a Tom Nook actually is.
CR: Okay. Good plan. That's it for today. Join us tomorrow for a check-in with BuzzFeed Parents editor, Mike Spohr, for tips and survival techniques when you're at home with your child and/or multiple children during the lockdown.
HB: And remember, if you're going to plant a tree today, make sure it's a specimen.
Donald Trump: But they'll be admiring this tree and they'll be admiring nine more trees. We're planting 10 beautiful specimen trees. They're specimens, all specimens. People may think that's an exaggeration or that's a Trump term. Actually, they're sold as specimens. They cost more money, but they are better.
CR: Be sure to subscribe to News O'Clock on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you go for your sound stories.
HB: And please, take the time to leave us a rating and a review. It helps us figure out what you'd like about the show versus what you love about the show, what can change, what you must insist that we will never change. Also, tell your friends about us and have them set their alarms to make sure that they never miss News O'Clock.