Did IRS send your stimulus Mystery of 604 unmarked Playoffs: check to wrong account? graves on Clemson campus A question
Some Americans are surprised to discover the Professor works to identify Black people for all 14 NFL money isn’t where they expected. In Money who helped build the university. In News teams
The first “Super Wild- Card Weekend,” as the league puts it, starts USA TODAY Saturday with three games, followed by three THE NATION'S NEWS | $2 | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 on Sunday. In Sports
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CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC Vaccine is on shelves but not in the arms US fails to deliver 2020 goal of 20 million doses
Karen Weintraub USA TODAY
If the pace of COVID-19 vaccine de- livery into people’s arms stays the way it has been for the past few weeks, it could take years rather than months to vaccinate Americans, and the out- break will continue to dominate lives. Federal officials overestimated the speed at which vaccines could be giv- en, making delivery a disappointment in an otherwise successful develop- ment effort. Doses have been distributed behind the government’s initial schedule – 15 million, instead of the 20 million doses promised to be delivered by the end of 2020. About 70% of those doses are sitting on pharmacy shelves, ac- cording to government data, and only Pence’s biggest test: about 14% of doses destined for nurs- ing home residents and caregivers have been injected. It’s not too late to turn the situation around, according to experts such as A break with Trump Kelly Moore, deputy director of the Im- munization Action Coalition, an edu- cation and advocacy group. VP in tough spot as Senate receives electoral votes The vice president’s constitutional To do so will require a host of im- role as presiding officer in the U.S. provements, including more money, Maureen Groppe The rules also may not matter to Senate means Mike Pence will additional staffing and greater experi- USA TODAY Trump’s supporters, some of whom ap- announce Joe Biden as winner of ence with vaccines shown to be safe parently believe Pence can do as he the presidential election. and effective but not so easy to use. WASHINGTON – Vice President wants. MEGAN VARNER/GETTY IMAGES Mike Pence began the Trump admini- “We need you to do the right thing See VACCINE, Page 4A stration tasked with investigating Don- Jan. 6!” a Trump supporter yelled at ald Trump’s unsubstantiated claims Pence during a rally Monday for the that millions of illegally cast ballots cost Senate runoff races in Georgia. him the popular vote in 2016. In addition to prevailing in the Elec- The “election integrity” commission toral College, Biden won the popular Pence headed quickly faded from view vote by more than 7 million votes. and disbanded months later after un- The Supreme Court twice refused to covering no evidence of widespread take up Trump-endorsed lawsuits that voter fraud. sought to overturn the results of the Now, Pence is ending Nov. 3 election. Federal and his tenure with an even A history major state courts dismissed bigger test of whether to Trump’s claims of voter support Trump’s spurious who reveres the fraud more than 60 times. election claims. Constitution, And recounts in Georgia and Protests began Tuesday in the capital ADRIA-JOI WATKINS VIA AP If he fulfills his consti- Wisconsin upheld Biden’s with thousands of pro-Trump and tutional role as presiding Pence is likely victories in those states. far-right demonstrators who will No charges in Wis. police officer of the Senate and hyperaware of Breaking with Trump continue to march Wednesday. More announces Wednesday could hurt Pence’s chances on Page 2A. JASPER COLT/USA TODAY shooting of Jacob Blake that President-elect Joe how history will of inheriting his mantle to Biden received more Elec- run for president himself in The decision by the Kenosha County toral College votes than judge his four years. district attorney subverts “the will of Live: Ga. Senate runoffs Trump, it will be the ever- But Pence – a history ma- the people,” Blake’s lawyer says. 3A actions. loyal Pence’s biggest jor who reveres the Constitu- decide balance of power break with Trump. tion and said he gets “chills” when he Unprecedented voter turnout in The law doesn’t give Pence the option visits Independence Hall – also has to Tuesday’s runoffs for two U.S. Senate of rejecting the state-certified results be hyperaware of how history will judge seats will determine whether when Congress convenes a joint session his actions. Republicans can hold onto power in to formally receive the count, which Even if Pence stays within the law, he QIJFAF-03005x(a)L ©COPYRIGHT 2021 Washington, or give Democrats USA TODAY, showed that Biden defeated Trump in will share with Trump the blame and control over both chambers of A division of Gannett Co., Inc. the Electoral College, 306-232. criticism for a manufactured crisis be- Congress and the White House. HOME DELIVERY That’s unlikely to matter to Trump, cause he did not counter the president’s Get the latest news and analysis from 1-800-872-0001, USATODAYSERVICE.COM who continues to argue without evi- disinformation campaign about wide- dence that he won the election – and to spread election fraud, said Timothy the USA TODAY Network’s coverage in falsely assert that Pence can unilateral- Naftali, a presidential historian at New Georgia, as well as live updates when ly reject electoral votes. York University. Congress begins counting Electoral “I hope Mike Pence comes through “It’s not enough to say President College votes on Wednesday, at Many will wait past for us,” Trump said at a rally in Georgia Trump has put Vice President Pence in a usatoday.com. their turn for vaccine Monday night. “He’s going to have a lot Americans on when they’ll get to say about it.” See PENCE, Page 2A the COVID-19 shot once it’s available to them:
I’LL GET IT ASAP: 40% COVID-19 sparked flood of workplace lawsuits I’LL WAIT A BIT: OSHA received more ployees sued over disputes over work- cases as of mid-December. 44% place safety, how they’re paid while The lawsuits represent just the lead- than 9,000 complaints working from home, and family and ing edge of an even bigger wave that’s I’LL NEVER medical leave. expected this year, says Gerald Maat- GET IT: Paul Davidson In 2020, the pandemic led employees man Jr., a Seyfarth partner. Many were 15% USA TODAY to file 1,005 workplace lawsuits in state filed after employees were laid off dur- and federal courts, according to Chi- ing the pandemic, he says. The COVID-19 pandemic spawned cago-based law firm Seyfarth Shaw. “COVID is now a driver of filings and more than 1,000 workplace-related Another law firm, Littler Mendelson, is significantly impacting workplace SOURCE: ABC News/Ipsos survey lawsuits last year and drove a record based in San Francisco, says the figure AMY BARNETTE, BILL CAMPLING/USA TODAY number of class-action cases as em- was even higher. It estimated 1,425 such See LAWSUITS, Page 4A 2A ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY NEWS Trump supporters gather in DC
President promises to “If you count the real votes, he won stir debate and draw out what would the election,” Swinney said, referring to otherwise be a procedural vote, their ef- address crowds at rallies an unproven claim that many votes for forts aren’t likely to change the results of Biden were illegal or cast late. “You’d the election. Ryan W. Miller and Trevor Hughes have to have your head in the sand to not Trump promised to attend the rallies USA TODAY know there was cheating going on.” Wednesday and promoted the events on Election security experts, state offi- Twitter. “I will be there. Historic day!” WASHINGTON – Crowds of Presi- cials, judges and independent observ- Trump tweeted Sunday, sharing a tweet dent Donald Trump’s supporters gath- ers across the USA have found no evi- from a rally organizer. ered Tuesday, a day before planned ral- dence of widespread voter fraud. D.C. authorities took precautions lies and protests likely to attract con- Swinney’s friend Marcus Wren, who against potential violence at the rallies. spiracy theorists and far-right waved a “Don’t Tread On Me” flag, said The Proud Boys, a far-right extremist extremists to the nation’s capital. patriots like them would keep Biden group, said members would attend, but Fervent Trump supporters are con- from taking office. Trump supporters gather in their plans may be complicated by their vening in D.C. this week to contest what “Enlightened patriots will stand up Washington on Tuesday, a day before chairman’s arrest Monday. they call a rigged election, despite a lack and say, ‘This will not stand,’ and they planned protests against the Electoral Enrique Tarrio was on a phone call of evidence of widespread voter fraud. will be forced to stop it,” said Wren, 67, College count in Congress certifying with a USA TODAY reporter when the The rallies coincide with a congression- who owns a bottled water company in Joe Biden’s win. TREVOR HUGHES/USA TODAY call was interrupted by sirens and he al vote to certify President-elect Joe Bi- Louisiana. “If someone doesn’t stand was arrested. He was charged with de- den’s win in the Electoral College on up, our republic will be gone.” struction of property in connection with Wednesday. Swinney said that based on crowd ringed by security fencing, including St. an incident last month when Tarrio was Before noon Tuesday, hundreds of sizes, he believes Trump easily has John’s Church of Lafayette Square. Res- accused of setting fire to a Black Lives people gathered on Freedom Plaza near more support than Biden. Wren referred taurants and other businesses were Matter banner after a Trump rally, ac- the White House, many waving Trump to the “deep state” attempting to steal closed, citing area road closures and cording to the Metropolitan Police De- and American flags. Vendors ringing the the election, a conspiracy theory about possible violence. partment. The banner had been taken plaza briskly sold flag-themed hats and a group of powerful elites that allegedly Tuesday’s gatherings were billed as a from a historic Black church. shirts, emblazoned with sayings from run government and society. “pre-rally” before the main event Police in D.C. erected signs warning “Stop the steal” to “Trump is my presi- Swinney and Wren said they hope Wednesday. Trump said he’ll make an that the open carrying of guns is illegal. dent.” the U.S. House will refuse to certify the address. Mayor Muriel Bowser urged residents to Walking the plaza and waving a giant electors Wednesday, throwing the elec- Some Republican lawmakers plan to avoid the area Wednesday, and National Texas flag, physical therapist Scott tion to state delegations, which they challenge the vote when Congress Guard troops will support police offi- Swinney, 63, said he believes Trump said would back Trump. meets Wednesday to confirm Biden’s cers. won the election. Many businesses were boarded up or win. Though the attempt is certain to Contributing: Will Carless
praise for Pence as a smart man who Pence calls it straight. “Of course, if he doesn’t come Continued from Page 1A through, I won’t like him quite as much,” Trump said before adding, “No, tough spot,” Naftali said. “I think Vice Mike is a great guy.” President Pence has put himself in a tough spot.” Long-term impacts
Looking ahead to 2024 Pence’s longtime friend Ralph Reed, chairman of the Faith and Freedom Co- Trump’s refusal to concede has divid- alition, said the relationship that Pence ed the Republican Party, including those built with Trump is strong enough to eyeing a possible bid for the White House withstand Pence’s expected decision to in 2024. follow the rules Wednesday. “The party is in the process of tearing “He has been an indispensable gov- itself apart,” GOP pollster Frank Luntz erning partner to this president and his said Tuesday on CNBC. team,” Reed said. “There is a tremen- Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., whom dous and deep personal regard for Pence made an extra effort to help elect him.” in 2018, was the first GOP senator to an- Reed said Pence’s “overriding priori- nounce he would object to the Electoral ty” will be to “do the right thing and let College results. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz the verdict of history take care of itself.” joined the effort. Assuming Pence does not ignore the Sens. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, Ben law Wednesday, his presiding over the Sasse of Nebraska and other GOP law- congressional certification of Trump’s makers denounced such moves as dan- defeat may not become a big part of his gerous to democracy. Vice President Mike Pence has tried to strike a balance between loyalty to his legacy, said Lindsay Chervinsky, a Pence, as he has throughout the presi- boss while not parroting his claims. LOGAN CYRUS/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES presidential historian and author of dency, has tried to strike a balance be- “The Cabinet: George Washington and tween remaining loyal to Trump while the Creation of an American Institu- not parroting his most divisive rhetoric Former Rep. Mark Souder said tion.” and unfounded claims. Pence has consistently bent his own “But certainly, his acceptance and Pence did not support an unsuccess- “It’s not enough to say record to accommodate Trump but is flirtation and sort of careful cultivation ful lawsuit aimed at giving him the au- probably still not considered 100% of these ideas that maybe the election thority to decide which states’ Electoral President Trump has put loyal by Trump’s core supporters. was rigged will be a big part of his biog- College votes to count. But he “wel- Vice President Pence in a Backing Trump’s claims to the end raphy,” she said. “They’re trying to comed” the efforts of lawmakers to “use would probably not be enough to be- overthrow the democracy. And so I the authority they have under the law to tough spot. I think Vice come the most “pro-Trump future think that he will be remembered as raise objections and bring forward evi- candidate,” the Indiana Republican participating in that.” dence.” President Pence has put said, and it would end the chance for Pence described his actions as mak- himself in a tough spot.” Pence to expand his potential politi- ing sure all “legal votes” are counted cal base, as well as compromising the Timothy Naftali, without acknowledging that states and New York University basic integrity of the office. courts have found no widespread irregu- “Within these parameters, the larities in the election. He hasn’t ad- come the presiding officer as the most vice president has been walking a dressed Trump’s effort Saturday to senior member of the majority party in fine line,” said Souder, a Republican. strong-arm Georgia officials to overturn the Senate. “Now he will have to choose.” Customer service his election defeat in that state. Vice presidential scholar Joel Gold- To view important information online related to In his only public comments about stein said that “would be pretty miser- Pence has limits your subscription, visit aboutyoursubscription. Wednesday’s proceedings, Pence prom- able behavior” on Pence’s part. Most vice usatoday.com. You can also manage your subscription at account.usatoday.com ised Trump supporters on Monday: presidents who have announced the re- Former Indiana Rep. David McIn- Contact USA TODAY for questions or to report “We’ll hear the objections. We’ll hear the sults of their own defeat recognized the tosh, a close friend of Pence’s, said issues via email at [email protected] or by evidence.” importance to democracy of gracefully the vice president wants to do every- phone at 1-800-872-0001. He stopped short of saying he would accepting their loss and offering support thing he can to support Trump and Operating hours are: ❚ Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. EST do anything other than follow the pre- to the victors, he said. believes there were irregularities in scribed rules in doing so. “To preside but boycott stating the re- the election that need to be correct- Available subscriptions “The VP’s role under law is purely sult would make clear that pleasing ed. But there are limits to how far he’ll Subscribe and save today by visiting ministerial,” said Norman Eisen, a senior Trump is more important to Pence than go. usatoday.com/subscribe. The subscription below fellow at the Brookings Institution and communicating that basic and tradition- “He’s going to perform his role and is billed monthly and includes 24/7 access to outside counsel for the nonpartisan Vot- al democratic message,” Goldstein said. not go beyond that to try to exert usatoday.com, breaking news on our tablet and er Protection Program. “His responsibil- power that he doesn’t have,” said smartphone apps, subscriber benefits at usatoday.com/memberguide and the eNewspaper, ity is to open the certificates and call for What past VPs have done McIntosh, head of the conservative a digital replica of the print edition. objections in writing signed by at least Club for Growth. ❚ Delivery of the Monday through Friday print one senator and one congressperson.” Richard Nixon and Al Gore both re- McIntosh tried to relieve some of editions: $29.00 Those objections are certain to fail. ceived standing ovations after declaring the pressure Pence faces by running *Plus applicable taxes They require majority support from both their opponents the winner when, as sit- ads to counter those aired by the Lin- the Democrat-controlled House and Re- ting vice presidents, they had to certify coln Project. The anti-Trump group Contact us Customer Service ...... 1-800-872-0001 publican-controlled Senate. their own presidential losses. Nixon said trolled the president and vice presi- Newsroom ...... 703-854-3400, ext. 5, ext. 5 he could not think of “a more striking and dent by warning that Pence “will put Classified advertising ...... 1-800-397-0070 Will Pence ‘do his duty’? eloquent example of the stability of our the nail in your political coffin when National, regional advertising ...... 703-854-3400 constitutional system.” he presides over the Senate vote to An Indiana Republican who request- In 2017, when some House Democrats prove Joe Biden won.” Corrections and clarifications ed anonymity to speak freely said Pence tried to raise complaints about Russian The Club for Growth’s ads pro- Our goal is to promptly correct errors. Email us at is doing what many other Republicans election interference and voter suppres- claimed, “Mike Pence stays true. … [email protected] to report a mistake. Describe the error, where you saw it, the date, have done for four years – keeping his sion allegations, Biden repeatedly ruled Always has. Always will.” page number, or the URL. head down and hoping that everything them out of order. “The main audience was the presi- will work out. “There is no debate. There is no de- dent,” said McIntosh, who heard that Postal information Though the Republican expects Pence bate,” Biden said as he wielded the gavel. the Lincoln Project ads had gotten to Volume 39, No. 79 to “do his duty,” he said he would not be Pence’s spokesman Devin O’Malley Trump. “We wanted to correct the USA TODAY, USPS #684090, ISSN #0734-7456, is surprised if Pence steps off stage for the declined to say whether the vice presi- record.” published Monday through Friday at 7950 Jones Branch Dr. McLean, VA 22108. Periodicals postage final vote total announcement. dent intends to oversee all of the vote As Trump publicly pressured paid at McLean, VA 22108. Postmaster: Send Pence could hand the gavel to Sen. counting proceedings, including declar- Pence on Monday to ignore the law, address changes to Customer Service, PO Box Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, who would be- ing the winner. he alternated his entreaties with 62670, San Angelo, TX 76906 NEWS K1 USA TODAY ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ 3A Prosecutor: What to expect from No charges against cop Electoral College count in shooting Nicholas Wu and Camille Caldera USA TODAY MILWAUKEE – The Kenosha, Wis- consin, police officer who shot Jacob Congress’ count of the Electoral Blake in August will not be criminally College, a normally symbolic affair af- charged, Kenosha County District At- firming the president-elect’s victory, is set to be a contentious, lengthy proc- torney Michael Graveley announced “I hope Mike Pence comes Tuesday. ess when the House and Senate con- vene in a joint session to count the through for us. He’s going to Neither the officer who fired shots, have a lot to say about it.” Rusten Sheskey, nor any others will be electoral votes on Wednesday. charged, Graveley said in a news In an effort that has divided the Re- President Donald Trump conference. His decision was based on publican Party, over a dozen Senate evidence that could not be seen on Republicans and at least 50 House Re- cellphone video of the incident, which publicans are set to object to the showed Sheskey shooting Blake, 29, in counting of electoral votes from states the back as he got into a vehicle with that President Donald Trump contest- his children inside. ed after Election Day. No Democrats Blake was left paralyzed. The video, are expected to object to the results. which was widely shared on social Trump has urged GOP lawmakers to media, sparked protests, vandalism join the objections, but the effort is un- and arson. likely to succeed because a majority of “It’s a narrow task today, it’s a legal both the House and Senate is needed and professional task,” Graveley said. to exclude any electoral votes. He added that the shooting was a Congress is set to meet on Wednes- The role of Vice President Mike Pence, who is shown in September, is limited by BRYNN ANDERSON/AP tragedy for Blake, his family, police day at 1p.m. EST as protesters descend the Constitution. and the community. on Washington. Here’s what to expect: Blake’s attorney, B’Ivory LaMarr, said Graveley was subverting the will What is the procedure? conference to vote as they will on objec- And Sen. Roy Blunt, R-Mo., a member of the people by failing to charge Shes- tions after making his thoughts on the of Senate Republican leadership, told key. There was clearly probable cause Members of the House of Repre- process well-known early on, according reporters he would not support the ef- to believe a crime had been committed, sentatives and Senate will meet in a to a GOP aide who was not authorized to fort, adding, “I actually like to come up LaMarr said, and the case should be joint session in the House Chamber to speak publicly on the plans. with plans that have a chance of being brought before a jury. count the electoral votes and declare Despite McConnell’s opposition to successful.” “The people are being deprived of an official winner. States already certi- lodging objections, he has spoken with their constitutional right to be the trier fied the results of their own elections. senators individually to offer guidance, Previous objections of fact,” he said. The procedures for the session come but no formal plan has been sent to Graveley also did not charge the two from the Electoral Count Act of 1887. members of the conference. Objections to electoral votes are rare. other Kenosha officers who were there Vice President Mike Pence is ex- After debate concludes, the House In 2017, half a dozen House Demo- when Blake was shot, Brittany Mero- pected to preside over the joint session and Senate will vote. crats objected to electoral votes for nek and Vincent Arenas. in his role as president of the Senate. If A simple majority in both chambers Trump, citing voter suppression and po- Blake’s shooting and its aftermath he is not present, the chamber’s most is required to uphold the objection and tential interference from Russia. propelled Wisconsin into the national senior member, Sen. Chuck Grassley, throw out the state’s votes. Short of But Joe Biden, then-vice president spotlight. President Donald Trump R-Iowa, will preside. Leaders of both that, the objection is disposed of and and president of the Senate,rejected the and President-elect Joe Biden discuss- major parties will appoint lawmakers the votes are counted as cast. effort, since because they lacked a Sen- ed it during campaign stops in the from both chambers to act as “tellers.” After the votes are counted, it falls to ate sponsor. state. Biden met with Blake’s family Pence will open certificates of the Pence to declare the election winner. Just twice – in 1969 and 2005 – have and said charges against Sheskey ap- electoral votes from each state – So far, Pence – who has not acknowl- there been objections that met the crite- peared warranted; Trump praised po- whose electors met to cast their ballots edged Trump lost his bid for reelection – ria to require the House and Senate to lice and exhorted law and order. Dec. 14 – and hand them to the tellers has remained relatively quiet on his role debate and vote. On Aug. 25, the third night of pro- to read aloud. As they read a state’s in the electoral vote count process. In 1969, the objection was over a tests in Kenosha, two men, Anthony certificate, Pence will call for objec- On Dec. 28, Republicans including faithless elector from North Carolina Huber and Joseph Rosenbaum, were tions to the state’s votes. Texas Rep. Louie Gohmert filed a law- who voted for George Wallace instead of fatally shot by a teenager armed with To be considered, objections must suit in federal court to authorize Pence Richard Nixon. The objection was re- an AR-15-style rifle. Kyle Rittenhouse, be made in writing and endorsed by at to pick and choose which electoral votes jected by both chambers. 17, has been charged with killing them least one member of each chamber. to accept or reject. In a filing Dec. 31, In 2005, the objection was over elec- and with wounding Gaige Gross- Any objection that meets that crite- Pence asked the judge to dismiss the toral votes in Ohio, cast for George W. kreutz, 26, of West Allis. ria will result in a suspension of the suit, which his brief called “a walking le- Bush. Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., In addition to the charges of homi- joint session, at which time the House gal contradiction.” joined Rep. Stephanie Tubbs Jones, D- cide and attempted homicide, Ritten- and Senate will convene separately to The suit has since been dismissed by Ohio, in the action, which they said was house faces two counts of endangering consider the issue. courts because of Gohmert’s lack of to raise awareness about voter suppres- safety and one for illegal possession of The debate on each objection is lim- standing. sion. a firearm. A count of violating curfew ited to two hours. Each member may Trump has publicly pressured Pence The objection was roundly defeated, was added later. His attorney formally speak only for one five-minute stint, to intervene in the proceedings. receiving a single vote in the Senate, entered pleas of not guilty to the origi- and the fissures among the GOP on the “I hope Mike Pence comes through from Boxer herself, and 31 votes in the nal seven charges on his behalf during objections will put some Republicans for us,” Trump said at a rally in Georgia House, all from Democrats. a court hearing Tuesday. On the night in the unusual situation of arguing on on Monday night. “He’s going to have a of the shootings, Rittenhouse was the same side as Democrats against lot to say about it.” Could an objection succeed? among numerous white men who pa- the wishes of the president. “The Vice President has the power to trolled the protests with guns although Rep. Tom Reed, R-N.Y., co-chair of reject fraudulently chosen electors,” In short, no. Like the two previous they had no legal authority to do so. the bipartisan Problem Solvers Cau- Trump tweeted Tuesday. objections, there is virtually no chance Rittenhouse is free on a $2 million cus, told reporters on a conference call State officials have not found evi- that any challenges lodged will succeed. bond. His lawyers say he acted in self- Tuesday he expected to see “Republi- dence of widespread fraud in any of the The most straightforward reason the defense. cans having an honest debate on this states contested by Trump, and Pence objections will fail is that they must be Attorney Kimberly Motley, who rep- issue,” even as GOP members of his does not have the power to reject elec- approved by both chambers, and Demo- resents Grosskreutz, called the deci- group took different sides. tors. Under the 12th Amendment, crats control the House. sion not to charge Sheskey “outra- On the House side, Democrats have Pence’s role is just to “open all the certif- The Senate is harder to predict. The geous” and “another tragic reminder of chosen several lawmakers who are icates” and preside over their counting. runoff for seats in Georgia that will de- the inequities and the tremendous def- well-versed in the Constitution and termineS control of the Senate Tuesday. erence that is unfairly given to officers law to lead their rebuttals of any GOP Who is objecting? Loeffler is still seated as a U.S. senator for unreasonably violent behavior.” challenges on specific states. Speaker because she was appointed to fill a term Authorities and Kenosha residents Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., will preside At least three states will draw objec- going through 2023, but Republican Sen. took precautions ahead of Tuesday’s over any debate in the House. tions from both senators and members David Perdue, who was also up for re- announcement. Gov. Tony Evers called Senate Democrats have a similar of the House, starting the process for election in Tuesday’s runoffs, is no long- out the National Guard on Monday af- tactic in place, planning to cite GOP of- Congress to debate the counting of elec- er a senator after his term lapsed Sunday. ternoon as business owners boarded ficials and judges in each state that toral votes from them. Republicans still maintain a majority. up their windows and government certified the results of the election. Over a dozen Republican senators But only a handful of Republican sena- workers put up fences and concrete Sen. Amy Klobuchar, who will be have said they will object, including tors need to vote against the objections barriers around the courthouse. Mon- guiding some of the debate for Demo- Sen. Kelly Loeffler, R-Ga., who is likely for them to fail, assuming all Democrats day evening, the Kenosha City Council crats, told USA TODAY the debate in to object to the results in Georgia. vote against the objections. approved an emergency declaration the Senate will look different than in Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, spearheaded Regardless of the outcome in the that included road closures and autho- the House and would display a “bipar- a group of senators who said they would Senate, without the approval of the rized a citywide curfew. tisan pushback and that’s how our de- join in House lawmakers’ objections. House, objections will not change the And although Graveley’s news con- bate will be structured.” Cruz will object to the Arizona results, Electoral College vote totals. ference was announced to the media “I think you’re going to see a differ- according to a source familiar with his Though the challenges are doomed to Tuesday morning, he kept its location ent flavor to the argument in the Sen- plans who is not authorized to speak on fail, they will extend the vote-counting secret until 45 minutes before it began. ate because we will have a number of the record. process far longer than normal. Blake is home after months of hospi- strong figures on the Republican side Another Republican senator, Josh The joint session took just 23 min- talization and rehab, his attorney said. who are joining us in this,” she noted. Hawley of Missouri, is likely to object to utes in 2013 and 41 minutes in 2017, ac- Republicans in both the House and the votes from Pennsylvania. cording to the Congressional Research Senate have spoken out against the ef- On the House side, Rep. Mo Brooks Service. Not this time. fort to object to the electoral vote led the charge and has met with the If all six planned objections from the counting. White House about his proposal. The House receive support from a member Klobuchar added that in each state, Alabama Republican said in a Jan. 4 of the Senate, total debate time could Democratic senators, through their statement he would object to results exceed 12 hours, and the process could five-minute speeches, will highlight from Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Neva- take over 24 hours once time to clean the key Republican officials in the state da, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, states the chamber and time for votes is fac- that certified results or pushed back whose electoral processes he said were tored in, House Majority Leader Steny on Trump’s claims of fraud. “badly flawed” and “untrustworthy.” Hoyer, D-Md., told reporters Monday. “In all of these states, we will be em- However, some top Republican law- Recesses also are allowed under the phasizing the fact that it wasn’t just makers have argued against objecting. law governing the counting of electoral Gaige Grosskreutz, 26, who was shot one party that certified these elec- Rep. Liz Cheney, R-Wyo., the third- votes, though it is unclear whether Con- in the arm during protests this tions. In some states, it was a domi- ranking House Republican, circulated a gress will take breaks. summer in Kenosha, Wisconsin, joins nant Republican Party,” she said. memo among GOP lawmakers calling If that’s the case, the meeting could demonstrators in Milwaukee on Sept. Senate Republicans do not appear the objections “directly at odds with the wrap up sometime Thursday – or later – 5. MIKE DE SISTI/USA TODAY NETWORK to have a set plan on how the day will Constitution’s clear text and our core ending, at long last, the presidential look. Senate Majority Leader Mitch beliefs as Republicans,” according to a election. McConnell is allowing his fractured source familiar with the memo. Contributing: Christal Hayes 4A ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY NEWS Vaccine
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About 200,000 doses are being given a day. Anthony Fauci, director of the Na- tional Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said vaccinators should soon be able to deliver 1 million a day. “There were a lot of aspirational goals set by federal officials about how many vaccines could be delivered how quick- ly,” Moore said. “The delivery of a box of vaccine to a clinic door is the easiest part of the process.” Chicago has delivered 95% of the vaccine it’s received, but at the current rate of delivery, it would take a year to a year-and-a-half to vaccinate residents, Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Tuesday. Chicago has built infrastructure to deliver the vaccine, Lightfoot said, but needs more doses. “The federal govern- ment has to step up, finally, and do a bet- ter job at protecting American lives from this terrible virus.” Operation Warp Speed, the federal program tasked with developing and delivering COVID-19 vaccines, promised to vaccinate 20 million Americans in December. Three weeks after shipping began, the program has distributed 15 million doses to hospitals and nurs- ing home providers, but only 4.5 million people have gotten the first of the two- shot regimen. That means 30% of avail- able doses have been used. Among nursing home residents and caregivers, 365,000 shots have been de- Florida gave older residents priority in COVID-19 vaccinations last month. GREG LOVETT/USA TODAY NETWORK livered out of more than 2.5 million dis- tributed – a 14% usage rate. Federal officials have focused on get- delivered at neighborhood pharmacies san, nonpartisan, one government re- ting the vaccine onto hospital shelves, and health care facilities. sponse,” he said. but to get them off the shelves requires CVS is ready to deliver vaccine at all “There were a lot of Moore lives in Tennessee, which has “an enormous human element,” Moore 10,000 of its pharmacies nationwide eight neighboring states each with dif- said. There are always bugs when you and expects to be able to give 20 million aspirational goals set by ferent policies. In Bristol, Tennessee, “translate from paper to practice,” she to 25 million doses a month once federal officials about how police officers have to wait until health said, and federal plans didn’t give enough vaccine is available. “We’re care workers are vaccinated, while offi- enough consideration to the need for ready to go once the government autho- many vaccines could be cers across the border in Bristol, Vir- scheduling and organizing clinics, edu- rizes wider distribution,” said Mike ginia, are allowed to line up. cating patients and caregivers and re- DeAngelis, a CVS spokesperson. delivered how quickly. The Different standards could mean vac- solving the small problems that crop up. delivery of a box of vaccine cinators will hesitate to make sure Hospital workers and public health Frustrating front-line experience they’re not making a mistake, and recip- officials are exhausted after 11 months of to a clinic door is the easiest ients will be more likely to pass on the fighting the virus. “And now they’re be- Steven Wolf, who co-runs neurology part of the process.” vaccine, thinking they’re not a priority. ing asked to ramp up the most ambi- services for YAI, a New York-based sup- These problems are all solvable, tious vaccine program the country has port organization for people with au- Kelly Moore, Moore said, and it’s realistic to think Immunization Action Coalition ever seen,” said Howard Koh, a former tism, Down syndrome and other condi- they will be fixed within the next month, assistant secretary for health at the U.S. tions, came in over his vacation to vacci- and the number of vaccinations will Department of Health and Human Ser- nate patients and the staff members “We talk people into medication and reach 1 million a day nationwide, as vices and now a professor at the Har- who care for them. “I was envisioning surgery and all these other things, and Fauci suggested. vard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. that we were going to get them in and we could not convince these 10 that this Surgeon General Jerome Adams, The protocols for this vaccine are dif- out fast,” Wolf said, but the process was is what you’ve got to do to take care of speaking on NBC News’ “Today” show, ferent from those for the seasonal flu “horribly terrible.” yourself,” he said. “I came home so frus- agreed that the state delivery systems vaccine, for which a nurse can wheel a It took 52 clicks on each person’s trated.” have been uneven, some distributing cart through hospital hallways, deliver- digital medical record before the patient 75% or more of available doses and oth- ing shot after shot. People who receive a was ready to receive a shot. YAI had to Lack of money, leadership ers not even 25%. COVID-19 vaccine have to be watched get consent forms signed by family He said there would be more money for 15 minutes to ensure they don’t have members and guardians for those who Although Congress allocated $8 bil- to help out, more locations will soon be an allergic reaction. This requires hospi- couldn’t sign for themselves. lion for vaccine distribution, Koh said added to provide vaccinations and more tals to set aside space and personnel – “It was just freaking endless,” Wolf it’s not enough and should have arrived people will be eligible to get the vaccine. both of which are at a premium. said of the paperwork. months ago. The bottom line is that everyone “All of those things are just part of the He and two others were able to vacci- “This is a field that has been under- wants vaccinations to move faster, said not-unexpected challenges we face in nate 40 people in three hours, far fewer resourced and overlooked for far too Nancy Foster, vice president for quality implementing such a complex program than he anticipated. long,” Koh said. and patient safety policy at the Amer- with a new vaccine based on a new plat- Ten caregivers refused to receive the Koh, who was commissioner of pub- ican Hospital Association. Vaccines form in the midst of the height of the vaccine. Some wanted to talk it over lic health for the Commonwealth of provide the chance to get beyond CO- pandemic with exhausted health care with family members. Others wanted Massachusetts during 9/11 and the an- VID-19. workers who are at the end of their rope more people to go first, while some re- thrax scare in 2001, said officials prom- “It is the great opportunity and the after all the work they’ve been doing for peated conspiracy theories about the ised then never to be caught off guard great hope,” Foster said. “No one wants the past year,” Moore said. vaccine. again by a public health emergency, but to see it moving slowly.” By the time there is enough vaccine Wolf said he considers himself a pret- that resolve didn’t last. Contributing: Grace Hauck to distribute outside hospitals and other ty persuasive person, and he was armed He criticized the lack of federal lead- Health and patient safety coverage care facilities to the broader community, with lots of facts about the minor side ership and politicization of public at USA TODAY is made possible in part vaccinators will have worked out some effects and major benefits of the vac- health, saying state and local govern- by a grant from the Masimo Foundation of the kinks in the system, she said. cine, but he said he and his colleagues ments should collaborate, not go it for Ethics, Innovation and Competition It may get easier to vaccinate large couldn’t persuade those 10 to get vacci- alone. in Healthcare. The Masimo Foundation numbers of people when shots can be nated. “A crisis like this should be biparti- does not provide editorial input.
they weren’t compensated for all the Lawsuits hours they logged, or for their purchases of computers or printers. Continued from Page 1A A record 231 wage-and hour-related class-action lawsuits were certified last class-actions,” Maatman says. year, Maatman says, and COVID-19 Among the 1,005 workplace lawsuits cases made up about one-third of those. sparked by the outbreak, well over half – That’s significant because class-action 690 – dealt with layoffs and firings, with suits can include hundreds or thou- employees arguing they were victims of sands of plaintiffs, and certification age or racial discrimination, for exam- means a judge has determined the case ple. can go forward as a class action. Most Nearly 200 were related to workplace such lawsuits are settled before they go safety. Workers claimed businesses to trial, Maatman says. didn’t provide adequate personal pro- Other types of workplace suits, ac- tective equipment or hygiene products, cording to Seyfarth Shaw: didn’t comply with cleaning and sanita- • Discrimination. In New Jersey, tion protocols, or didn’t enforce temper- a firm denied a 70-year-old plaintiff’s ature checks or mask-wearing by cus- request to work from home. He had tomers or visitors, among other accusa- cited his age and medical condition for tions. the request. In another case, a worker The Occupational Safety and Health A car sporting a sign calling for a safe and healthy workplace drives past lost a job because the employer was Administration requires employers to Smithfield Foods in Sioux Falls, S.D., on April 9 at a protest on behalf of concerned about exposing him to CO- establish a workplace “free from recog- employees during the COVID-19 outbreak. ERIN BORMETT/USA TODAY NETWORK VID-19. nized hazards that are causing or are • Leave. Many suits say employees likely to cause death or serious physical grappling with COVID-19 themselves or harm” to employees. the agency has received more than ments, hourly workers must be paid ex- caring for a relative have been illegally Last year, OSHA issued COVID-19-re- 9,000 complaints. tra for the hours they put in beyond 40 denied sick leave or family and medical lated citations triggered by 295 inspec- Meanwhile, 113 of the workplace suits each week. leave. tions, and it proposed penalties totaling were so-called wage-and-hour claims, Fast-food workers may sue because • Retaliation. Employees charged $3.8 million. But Debbie Berkowitz, in which staffers contended they were they weren’t paid for the time they spent that they were fired for complaining worker safety and health program direc- forced to work off the clock, for in- putting on and taking off protective about unsafe working conditions, or the tor for the National Employment Law stance. While most white-collar work- gear. And call-center and clerical em- failure to comply with COVID-19 proto- Project, a worker advocacy group, noted ers are exempt from overtime require- ployees working from home may claim cols. NEWS USA TODAY ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ 5A
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LGBTQ group finds Trump judges hostile Report says nearly 40% That outpaced Trump’s recent pred- American Psychiatric Association have ecessors, none of whom managed to discredited the practice. have put gains at risk place as many judicial appointees dur- But in the opinion, Judge Britt Grant ing their first four years in office. During wrote that the ban on the controversial Kristine Phillips the Obama administration, only 30 fed- treatment infringes on therapists’ First USA TODAY eral appeals court nominees were con- Amendment rights and that the govern- firmed during his first four years in of- ment may not prohibit the expression of WASHINGTON – Nearly 40% of fice, according to the report. Previous an idea simply because society finds it judges President Donald Trump ap- administrations going back to President offensive. Judge Barbara Lagoa agreed pointed to federal appeals courts have a Ronald Reagan’s managed to confirm 30 with Grant, resulting in a split 2-1 history of hostility toward LGBTQ to 42 nominees to the appeals court decision. rights, according to a new report by the bench during the first four years. In a candid speech in November to LGBT advocacy group Lambda Legal. “I think in many ways, Trump’s im- As Supreme Court listen to cases the conservative Federalist Society, The report presents a sobering image pact on the judiciary will be his most about sex discrimination in the Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito for civil rights advocates of Trump’s significant and lasting legacy,” McGo- workplace, protesters gather outside lamented society’s hostility against tra- lasting influence on the federal judiciary wan said. on Oct. 8, 2019. JACK GRUBER/USA TODAY ditional views on marriage. “You can’t – one they say threatens to roll back pro- While the Supreme Court hears only say that marriage is a union between gress made in advancing the rights of about 100 to 150 cases annually, the 13 one man and one woman,” Alito said. the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgen- federal appeals courts around the coun- assignment surgery while in a Texas “Until very recently, that’s what the vast der community. try hear thousands of the most conse- prison. Ho, who referred to the inmate majority of Americans thought. Now it’s “Our analysis was ... about calling out quential cases every year that shape using male pronouns, wrote that while it considered bigotry.” the danger to the rule of law, the danger laws and affect the rights of millions of can be considered “cruel and unusual The speech was widely criticized by to the integrity and credibility of the ju- Americans. punishment” to deny medical care to a Democrats and advocates, including diciary to be putting forth nominees Carrie Severino, chief counsel at the prisoner, there is much disagreement in McGowan. Lambda Legal also opposed who fundamentally start from a per- conservative Judicial Crisis Network, the medical community about the ne- Alito’s nomination to the high court in spective of LGBTQ people as ‘less which has promoted Trump’s nomi- cessity of sex-reassignment surgery. 2006. than,’ ” said Sharon McGowan, legal di- nees, has said the nomination process Later that year, Judge David Stras, McGowan said she expects similar rector for Lambda Legal. under the Trump administration is not whom Trump nominated to the U.S. cases and rulings to make their way Trump will leave office having signifi- about meeting quotas. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit, through the federal court system. cantly altered the makeup of the federal Trump “is looking for people with a wrote an opinion backing wedding In the past, McGowan said, Lambda judiciary, from lower courts to the Su- principled judicial philosophy,” Severi- videographers’ First Amendment rights Legal has won cases before Republican- preme Court – an accomplishment no said. “The fundamental question is to refuse to provide services at same-sex appointed judges, but the difference made possible by Senate Republicans making sure we have judges who are go- weddings. The judge wrote that the during the Trump administration is the and one that will create a major obstacle ing to be faithful to the Constitution.” videographers have creative control over appointment of judges whose records for President-elect Joe Biden. The report by Lambda Legal – which their work and have the right to decline show “deep hostility” against LGBTQ After four years, Trump has analyzed public records on Trump’s requests for services from clients who rights. appointed three Supreme Court justices nominees, including their statements contradict their views that marriage is “We can and should be able to expect and 230 lower court judges to lifetime and writings as private citizens – sin- solely between a man and a woman. fair and impartial justice from judges re- posts, many of whom are young, white gled out several appeals court judges Also last year, two Trump-nominat- gardless of whether they were appoint- and male jurists who will have decades who, the authors say, have already is- ed judges to the U.S. Court of Appeals ed by Republicans or Democrats. We did to influence and shape federal law. sued rulings hostile to LGBTQ rights. for the 11th Circuit voted to strike down not oppose every single Trump nomi- According to Lambda Legal’s report, In 2019, Judge James Ho, whom local laws protecting LGBTQ minors nee. We did not paint them with the released Tuesday, the Trump admini- Trump nominated to the U.S. Court of from conversion therapy, a practice of same brush,” McGowan said. But, she stration has appointed 54 of the 177, Appeals for the 5th Circuit, wrote an attempting to change a person’s sexual said, “there should be a baseline below about 30%, of actively serving federal opinion denying health care to a trans- orientation or gender identity. The which we would never fall.” appeals court judges. gender woman who was seeking sex-re- American Medical Association and the Contributing: Richard Wolf
Canyon on Work begins to memorialize Mars is unmarked graves at Clemson more than Professor seeks to tell importance of honoring Black history has never been more important. Grand stories of 604 people “History gives us an opportunity to learn about the past, and honor the past Doyle Rice Zoe Nicholson as we make decisions on how to live in USA TODAY Greenville News the present and in the future. USA TODAY NETWORK “And because African Americans Arizona’s Grand Canyon may be were so integral to the development of awe-inspiring, but it’s just “a scratch” GREENVILE, S.C. – Although she our country, and at Clemson University, compared with the massive Valles has dedicated her life’s work to re- it’s a history that needs to be front and Marineris Canyon on Mars. searching Black history at Clemson center,” Thomas said. Slicing along the Martian equator University, Dr. Rhondda Thomas Since Floyd’s death, Clemson Univer- for about 2,500 miles, the canyon wants you to know she’s not a histori- sity trustees voted to remove two names would reach from New York City to San an. She’s a storyteller. Clemson’s Rhondda Thomas examines of men known for racism, Calhoun and Francisco if placed in the United Each story she discovers – whether stonework that came from enslaved Benjamin Tillman. States, according to NASA. The canyon it’s infant Katie, an enslaved girl who people’s cabins. GREENVILLE NEWS Calhoun was a slave owner and se- floor sinks 7 miles into the surround- was listed on the deed of the planta- cessionist whose plantation became ing plains. That is as deep as some of tion when it was sold to John C. Cal- Clemson University. Benjamin “Pitch- the deepest parts of Earth’s ocean. houn’s son in 1854, or Jimmie Gunn, a fork” Tillman was a governor and white It’s the largest canyon in the solar Charlotte, North Carolina-based musi- supremacist whose name adorned system, and images from the Mars Re- cian who was invited to perform on Clemson’s most iconic building. connaissance Orbiter reveal details Clemson’s all-white campus in the President Jim Clements established about its size. The photos were taken 1930s – is vital, the Calhoun Lemon a task force on racial equity. Clemson using the HiRISE (High Resolution Im- professor of literature said. football players organized a Black Lives aging Science Experiment), the most Thomas tells these stories through Matter demonstration. Hundreds of powerful camera ever sent to another Call My Name, a nonprofit research students have rallied together to de- planet. It’s one of six instruments project (and now a book) that seeks to mand more inclusive support for Black aboard the Mars Reconnaissance Or- tell the public about the Black people students. biter, the University of Arizona said. who helped Clemson University and Clemson University has discovered But even amid the activism and Despite breathtaking images of Val- the land it sits on. hundreds of unmarked graves change of today, Thomas said, the past les Marineris, scientists still aren’t “We strive to give every person that containing slaves and convict laborers can’t be ignored. sure how the gargantuan canyon com- we identify a story ... because together, at the site of Woodland Cemetery. Especially for Black people, who are plex formed, according to LiveScience. they create a beautiful mosaic of histo- KEN RUINARD/GREENVILLE NEWS reminded of the legacy of racism and “Unlike Earth’s Grand Canyon, ry that is painful. It has love, it has joy, slavery in South Carolina and beyond Valles Marineris probably wasn’t it has horror. It has all of the human every time they look in the mirror, she carved out by billions of years of rush- emotions that are associated with be- pers, convict laborers and domestic said. ing water; the Red Planet is too hot and ing on this planet,” Thomas said. workers who lived and worked in Clem- “It’s very difficult for me to forget this dry to have ever accommodated a river For months, Thomas has been son up until the cemetery was formally history because it’s written on my skin. large enough to slash through the crust working to identify and tell the stories dedicated in the 1920s, Thomas said. I’m a descendant of enslaved people like that,” LiveScience said. of the 604 people buried in unmarked While Thomas doesn’t know if they and slaveholders and slavers. And so ev- A large portion of the canyon prob- graves at Woodland Cemetery, Clem- will be able to identify any of the people ery time I look in the mirror, I see that ably cracked open billions of years ago, son’s on-campus graveyard that sits buried across the steep hills making up history. I can’t leave it in the past, be- the European Space Agency said, under the shadow of Memorial Stadi- the cemetery, she knows many families cause it’s written on my body.” when a nearby group of volcanoes um. in the area have ancestral ties to Fort Clemson University voted to tell the known as the Tharsis region was first But without remains – the red clay Hill Plantation and the many ways the “complete history” of Clemson in 2015, thrusting out of the Martian soil. in which they are buried is acidic land was used after it was sold. which includes the legacy of slavery and The Tharsis bulge is home to Olym- enough to dissolve bone – and without “Those graves have been there for a using convict laborers and sharecrop- pus Mons, the largest known volcano a lot of documentation, Thomas is long time. So we didn’t discover them. pers to farm and build Clemson’s earli- in the solar system. turning to the surrounding communi- They were recovered,” Thomas said. est campus buildings. ties to help connect modern descend- The university used ground-penetrat- The work at Woodland is just one ants and residents with the stories ing radar to determine the location of part of telling that story, Thomas said. buried in the clay. 604 graves, discoveries they announced The rest will come with activism, time Thomas has formed a community in October. and progress. outreach panel, which will begin work And now that the final resting places “I don’t see the cemetery project as this month to connect the history, sto- are known, the work to tell their stories the game-changer. It’s just something ries and research at Woodland to com- begins. that we need to do. munities in Pendleton, Clemson, Cen- “If (the public) believes they have “It’s one of the many things that we tral and Seneca. family members that are buried on need to do in order to fully embrace The panel’s immediate goal is edu- Cemetery Hill, please reach out to us. Clemson’s history, to connect with local A close-up view of Mars’ Valles cation, to shine a light on who is buried We want to talk to them,” Thomas said. African American communities, to sit Marineris, the largest canyon in the among the white faculty and alumni at After the nation’s racial reckoning in down together and figure out how the solar system. Woodland, which researchers believe the wake of George Floyd’s death in university can be more supportive of the NASA/JPL/UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA include enslaved Africans, sharecrop- Minneapolis in May, Thomas said the whole state as a land-grant institution.” NEWS USA TODAY ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ 7A OPINION
TODAY'S DEBATE: ELECTION CERTIFICATION Our View: The choice between democracy and Trump is easy
Among the Republicans who voted Hawley of Missouri, harbor ambitions to acquit Donald Trump of impeach- to win populist support among Trump ment charges last year were those who voters for future presidential bids. saw the shame of a Senate trial as pun- And some of the Senate plotters — ishment enough. “I believe the presi- James Lankford of Oklahoma and Mike dent has learned from this case,” Sen. Braun of Indiana, to name two — say Susan Collins of Maine said. “He will be their actions are merely symbolic much more cautious in the future.” moves to placate constituents who be- Sure he will. The fact is, Trump lieve that Trump should have won. doesn’t know shame. His instincts lie Today’s certification votes are being elsewhere — in the feral perception of cast as a difficult choice for Republican just how far he can push Republicans to lawmakers — including Vice President appease and enable him. Mike Pence, who will preside over the Since losing the Nov. 3 election, Senate — between upholding the con- Trump has checked out of his day job, stitutional process and conciliating a largely ignoring the raging coronavirus corrupt president. and focusing instead on spreading un- No, this isn’t hard at all, as a number founded claims of voting fraud. He has of Republican senators understand. hounded the governors of Arizona and “Let’s be clear what’s happening here: MIKE THOMPSON/USA TODAY NETWORK Georgia to help overturn voting results We have a bunch of ambitious politi- in those states; summoned Michigan cians who think there’s a quick way to lawmakers to the White House for arm- tap into the president’s populist base I lost to Josh Hawley twisting to achieve the same; and, in a without doing any real, long-term dam- brazen phone call Saturday, pleaded age,” said Ben Sasse of Nebraska. “But with the Georgia secretary of state and they’re wrong.” his lawyer to “find” enough votes to flip The effort sets a dangerous preced- in a campus election the state in his favor. ent for future lawmakers tempted to In other words, the president has overturn the will of the people. “The I moved on. Why won’t The rule, while easy to administer, learned absolutely nothing since the Founders entrusted our elections chief- was a bad one. It even had the potential House impeached him for a phone call ly to the states — not Congress,” argued he do that with Trump? for individuals to co-opt the society for in which he attempted to use foreign Tom Cotton of Arkansas, a Trump sup- the sole purpose of destroying it. His- aid to shake down a foreign leader to porter who nonetheless declined to Irina D. Manta torically, however, nobody had exploit- dig up dirt on Joe Biden. cast his lot with a rebellious few. ed that rule, to my knowledge. Instead, Today, in what should be a ceremo- The actions by Hawley, Cruz and Sen. Josh Hawley has made waves candidates had campaigned for votes nial proceeding for Congress to simply others also risk further emboldening a with his call for Republican senators to from people actively involved with the count electoral votes certifying Biden president who has shown no capacity object to President-elect Joe Biden’s campus club. as president, at least a dozen Republi- for self-constraint. Beyond bullying election victory and force Congress to I found out about Sen. Hawley’s can senators and scores of GOP House tactics to overturn the election, Trump vote today on whether to accept the plans too late to counter them success- members will seek to reject election re- has urged supporters to gather for a Electoral College results. I invite Sen. fully. I lost the YLS Federalist Society’s sults unless a special commission is “wild” demonstration today in Wash- Hawley to reconsider his misguided po- presidential election to him by a hand- created to investigate baseless claims ington, D.C. (prompting local authori- sition and, instead, to do what I did ful of votes. of consequential voter fraud spread by ties to call out the National Guard); met when I lost an election to no other than The presidency comes with a num- Trump and his media allies — claims with a former adviser who advocates him: Show grace in defeat. The princi- ber of advantages, including entry to that have been disproven by multiple that Trump declare martial law and ple is the same whether the election is key professional opportunities. From recounts and tossed out of dozens of hold new elections; countermanded or- for president of the United my perspective, I was the more courts. (Democrats have raised similar ders to pull a carrier group out of the States or, as with us, for presi- deserving candidate and cared certification challenges in the past, but Middle East to ease tensions with Iran; dent of a campus club. more about the organization. never in such numbers and never with and installed acolytes in a series of high Sen. Hawley, R-Mo., and I The voting rules, again, were the support of the defeated candidate.) Pentagon posts. were both members of the Yale problematic, and Sen. Hawley The effort is doomed to fail. There This behavior is so unnerving that Law School Class of 2006. While exploited that all the way to vic- should be more than enough votes in the 10 living former Defense secretar- we had our differences, we tory for himself and the rest of the Senate and certainly enough in the ies, led by Dick Cheney, signed an ex- shared a common bond through Irina D. his slate. Democratically controlled House to traordinary opinion piece warning that our joint participation in the Manta But you know what? As far as block this effort to overturn an Amer- “efforts to involve the U.S. armed forces school’s Federalist Society, electoral fairness is concerned, ican election. But why would so many in resolving election disputes would made up of mostly conservative none of that matters. The rules people who call themselves conserva- take us into dangerous, unlawful and and libertarian law students. were the rules. The people who tives even take these radical steps to unconstitutional territory.” At the end of our first year, we showed up to vote had the right subvert democracy? The Republicans who have chosen to were both elected as vice presi- to vote. I have no reason to be- Many fear Trump’s power to sway appease Trump by challenging the dents for events of the YLS Fed- lieve that the person who count- GOP votes against them in future pri- election results must know they will eralist Society. Collaborating in ed the votes miscounted. Based maries. He brandished that cudgel in a bear some level of responsibility for these positions in our second Sen. on the system we had, which — rally Monday night, vowing to cam- any desperate act the president takes year proved difficult. I organized Hawley AP while flawed — was hardly un- paign against the 2022 reelection of before Biden assumes office on Jan. 20. the lion's share of the group’s ethical, Sen. Hawley won and I Georgia Republican Gov. Brian Kemp Trump will be gone in two weeks, but events and often received no responses lost. And not once did I attempt to con- for his refusal to intervene in the state’s history will long remember those who from him on emails I sent to him and test that loss. election on Trump’s behalf. Others, conspired with him to undermine the society’s president that year. This Sen. Hawley and I both ended up ini- such as Ted Cruz of Texas and Josh America’s democracy. puzzled me because I thought our goal tially as law professors, but then our was to make the organization as strong paths split. He pursued political offices as possible, and failure to communicate while I remained in academia (though I Opposing View: Why we’ll vote was an obstacle. also continued my own political activ- This isn’t to say that Sen. Hawley ism). And while he has been one of to reject certain states’ electors didn’t have his qualities as a vice presi- President Donald Trump’s loyalists, I dent. For example, his marketing skills have been the opposite, from my mem- Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, declined to Electoral Commission — consisting of certainly contributed to strong turnout bership in Checks & Balances (a group provide an opposing view. Excerpts five Senators, five House Members, and at an event with the late Harvard Law of lawyers and academics committed to from the statement sent by Cruz and 10 five Supreme Court Justices — to con- School professor William Stuntz. While the Constitution and the rule of law) to other Republican senators: sider and resolve the disputed returns. I did more work that year, Sen. Hawley my volunteer work for the Biden cam- We should follow that precedent. To knew better how to shine the spotlight paign in 2020. On January 6, it is incumbent on wit, Congress should immediately ap- on his contributions, which is an im- Of course, the stakes are much high- Congress to vote on whether to certify point an Electoral Commission, with portant skill in the political arena. er when it comes to the presidency of the 2020 election results. That vote is full investigatory and fact-finding au- The YLS Federalist Society’s presi- the United States than that of the Yale the lone constitutional power remain- thority, to conduct an emergency 10- dential election started rolling around Law School Federalist Society. ing to consider and force resolution of day audit of the election returns in the the spring of our second year, in 2005, Conversely, however, maintaining the multiple allegations of serious voter disputed states. Once completed, indi- and it was traditional for one of the two the integrity of the democratic system fraud. At that quadrennial joint ses- vidual states would evaluate the Com- VPs for events to assume that role. Sen. of our country vastly trumps doing so sion, there is long precedent of Demo- mission’s findings and could convene a Hawley and I each announced our can- for a law school club. cratic members of Congress raising ob- special legislative session to certify a didacies. Shortly before the election, a While Sen. Hawley is unlikely to suc- jections to presidential election results, change in their vote, if needed. friend tipped me off to how Sen. Haw- ceed in his bid to hinder Biden from tak- as they did in 1969, 2001, 2005, and Accordingly, we intend to vote on ley was planning to beat me, given that ing office, he is setting a dangerous pre- 2017. And, in both 1969 and 2005, a January 6 to reject the electors from he was uncertain he could do so based cedent such that one day, a hostile Con- Democratic senator joined with a Dem- disputed states as not “regularly given” on votes only from regular members gress could overturn a rightful presi- ocratic House member in forcing votes and “lawfully certified” (the statutory who knew our records best. dential election. in both houses on whether to accept the requisite), unless and until that emer- As appeared accurate based on the The courts have ruled repeatedly presidential electors being challenged. gency 10-day audit is completed. eventual turnout, Sen. Hawley had ob- that there is no evidence of widespread The most direct precedent on this We are not naive. We fully expect tained from the sitting president the voter fraud in the 2020 presidential question arose in 1877, following seri- most if not all Democrats, and perhaps student email addresses for the YLS election. Some speculate that Sen. ous allegations of fraud and illegal con- more than a few Republicans, to vote Federalist Society Listserv (and the Hawley is simply posturing to position duct in the Hayes-Tilden presidential otherwise. But support of election in- president, whom I had helped to win himself for a presidential run someday. race. Specifically, the elections in three tegrity should not be a partisan issue. A the previous year, did not volunteer Even if this provided ethical cover for states — Florida, Louisiana, and South fair and credible audit — conducted ex- that information to me at that stage). his actions (spoiler: it doesn’t), he has Carolina — were alleged to have been peditiously and completed well before The rule was that anyone who had the intelligence to find better tactics conducted illegally. January 20 — would dramatically im- signed up for the Listserv by a certain than eroding our democratic system. In 1877, Congress did not ignore prove Americans’ faith in our electoral earlier date could vote in the society’s those allegations, nor did the media process and would significantly en- elections. This included a bunch of Professor Irina D. Manta is the found- simply dismiss those raising them as hance the legitimacy of whoever be- people who did not attend events and ing director of the Center for Intellectual radicals trying to undermine democra- comes our next president. We owe that had little or no involvement with the Property Law at Hofstra University’s cy. Instead, Congress appointed an to the people. YLS Federalist Society. Maurice A. Deane School of Law.
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Chairman and CEO USA TODAY Publisher USA TODAY Vice President/Local News and Audience Development: Amalie Nash Executive Editor/News: Jeff Taylor Gannett Co. President of News Editor in Chief Vice President & Executive Editor/Investigations: Chris Davis Executive Editor/Audience: Patty Michalski MICHAEL REED MARIBEL PEREZ WADSWORTH NICOLE CARROLL Chief Revenue Officer, sales and service: Kevin Gentzel Editorial Page Editor: Bill Sternberg 8A ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY NEWS Pixar’s lineup has shown heart and ‘Soul’ through the years MONEY+LIFE In honor of the studio’s latest release, we look USA TODAY | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 | SECTION B back and rank the entire catalog. Page 5B
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MANUFACTURING RISES TO BEST READING IN TWO YEARS
American factories grew in December at the fastest pace in more than two years as manufacturing continued to weather the pandemic better than the battered services sector. The Institute for Supply Management reported Tuesday that its gauge of manufactur- ing activity rose to 60.7% last month, the highest reading since it stood at 60.8 in August 2018. The gauge was up 3.2 percentage points from a No- vember level of 57.5. Any reading above 50 indicates expansion in the manufacturing sector. The U.S. econo- my collapsed from April through June but since that time manufacturing has Henry McSorley, 2, plays with toys as Burke Miller, 2, and Ethan Miller, 3, participate in a math activity with Nicole posted solid gains, while the services Leitermann at Impressions Family Child Care In Kimberly, Wis. PHOTOS BY DAN POWERS/USA TODAY NETWORK sector and the travel industry, has been harder hit.
SHAKE SHACK OFFERS Pandemic upends KOREAN CHICKEN SANDWICH
Shake Shack added new Korean-in- spired menu items across U.S. loca- tions, adding fuel to the chicken sand- options for child care wich war in 2021. The new selections include the Korean-Style Fried Chick’n Families and providers cope with virus’ unexpected toll Sandwich and the Korean Gochujang Chick’n Bites. In a blog post, Shake Shack said both the sandwich and Samantha West and Sarah Hauer bites include gochujang, a spicy red Milwaukee Journal Sentinel chili paste. Meanwhile, the sandwich USA TODAY NETWORK also includes kimchi, a mix of ferment- ed vegetables and spices. MILWAUKEE – Leah Kavanaugh studied art in college, but made child care her career. She relishes building relationships with kids and families ARAB LEADERS IN GULF and feeling like she’s a part of a com- SIGN DECLARATION munity. “What other job can you walk in the Gulf Arab leaders signed a declaration door and children yell your name, run Tuesday to ease a rift with Qatar, fol- up to you and give you a giant hug? lowing Saudi Arabia’s decision to end a There’s so much joy,” said Kavanaugh, 1 3 ⁄2-year embargo of the energy-rich a lead toddler teacher at the Children’s country that deeply divided regional Learning Center at the University of U.S. security allies in the Arabian Pen- Wisconsin-Milwaukee. “It’s a warm, insula. Saudi Arabia said it was restor- feel-good kind of job to have. I can’t ing full diplomatic relations with Qatar, imagine doing anything else.” although it was not clear how soon the But the coronavirus pandemic step would be followed by the United forced Kavanaugh to leave the job she Leitermann sets up an artwork project for Ethan, left, Burke and Henry at Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt. loves. Impressions Family Child Care. It’s because she can’t find child care for her own children, Lincoln, a second grader, and, Neil, a kindergartner, who With more kids learning at home ei- numbers every year to decide what Dow Jones Industrial Avg. are home all day because their school ther full or part time this school year, works financially. Sometimes, it makes is entirely online now. more families are looking for child care the most sense for a parent to drop out 32,000 Her husband, Andy, a high school at a time when an already critical short- of the workforce and not pay for child 167.71 English teacher, must return to work age of child care has grown worse. Pro- care. 30,000 after taking a leave of absence to care viders are reducing capacity and, as The difficult choices women such as for the kids. They don’t have family their financial struggles mount, up to Kavanaugh are facing, are just one facet 28,000 30,391 nearby to help out, and the couple one-third in Wisconsin could shut of the disproportionate toll the econom- can’t afford to send the children to an- down. ic downturn has taken on women during 26,000 other child care center or provider. what has come to be called the “sheces- 24,000 Countless women across Wiscon- Child care decisions changed sion.” JULY JAN. sin have found themselves in Kava- In September, a National Women’s AP naugh’s predicament, being forced to Under normal circumstances, par- TUESDAY MARKETS choose between work and family. ents of young children run the child care See CHILD CARE, Page 2B
INDEX CLOSE CHG Dow Jones Industrial Avg. 30,391.60 x 167.71 S&P 500 3,726.86 x 26.21 Nasdaq composite 12,818.96 x 120.51 T-note, 10-year yield 0.954 x 0.037 SOURCES USA TODAY RESEARCH, BLOOMBERG Did IRS send your stimulus
USA TODAY SNAPSHOTS© check to the wrong account?
Mortgage rates stimulus payments arrived promptly Michigan, said she’s had the same ad- back in April without any trouble via di- dress in Knoxville for the past 10 years. Rates reported Tuesday. Susan Tompor rect deposit. She hasn’t changed her bank account. Current Week ago Columnist Some taxpayers are “floored” to dis- And the retiree has been receiving So- USA TODAY cover that they might have to wait for a cial Security benefits via direct deposit 30 yr. fixed 2.85% 2.88% check or debit card in the mail or even for more than a year. 15 yr. fixed 2.30% 2.37% wait to file their 2020 federal income re- Her son received his second stimulus 5/1 ARM 2.96% 3.03% A second round of stimulus pay- turns before the second stimulus mess payment through direct deposit by Jan. ments triggered a second round of is resolved. 4, as soon as the second stimulus pay- 7/1 ARM 2.90% 2.94% complaints from many angry taxpay- Many are angry that the Internal Rev- ments became available, and he casual- 30 yr. jumbo 2.89% 2.90% ers who aren’t seeing their money enue Service and the U.S. Department ly asked her if she received her money. 30 yr. FHA 2.52% 2.61% quickly. of Treasury aren’t being upfront about She hasn’t received a dime yet. And So while many people began receiv- the possible snags. she was shocked Monday when she ing the second stimulus payments in “You’ve got more glitches going on used the IRS tool called “Get My Pay- their bank accounts Monday, others than you’re leading people to believe, ment” at IRS.gov to track her Economic only saw red. which is what I suspect,” said Deb Cata- Impact Payment once that tool was up- Some $600 payments apparently line, 65, who grew up in Flint, Michigan, dated. are going into the wrong bank ac- but now lives in Knoxville, Tennessee. The site told her: “We scheduled your counts, according to frustrated tax- Cataline, who once worked as a para- payment to be mailed on Jan. 6, 2021, to payers. Or checks are being mailed, legal for United Auto Workers-General BANKRATE.COM others say, even though their first Motors Legal Services Plan in Flint, See STIMULUS, Page 2B 2B ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY MONEY
to stay profitable. Under normal circum- entirely women, about half of whom hoff without overburdening the fam- Child care stances, that’s not a problem. have an associate degree or more educa- ilies. Tammy Dannhoff provides in-home tion, according to a 2016 Wisconsin “It’s a struggle both ways, for the Continued from Page 1B child care and early education from her Early Childhood Association study. families and also for myself,” Dannhoff Oshkosh home. She estimates she re- “They are women who have been said. “We thought this would be a good Law Center analysis found that four ceives two inquiries a week from cur- working at poverty-level wages for a compromise.” times more women than men dropped rent and expecting parents through really long time and they’re gritty and It was a big help to Jen Riha, whose out of the labor force in September. email or her Facebook page. have incredible resilience,” Schmidt 4-year-old daughter Kendra has re- “Usually, it’s the woman,” said Emilie Dannhoff is rarely able to help them. said. “But at some point, the system ceived care from Dannhoff for two Amundson, secretary of the Wisconsin In her newsletter, she includes a “ba- breaks when you can’t even bring in years. Department of Children and Families. by check spot,” where she alerts families enough revenue to pay your staff $10 an Already, mothering three kids – “That’s the piece of it that COVID has of future openings for infants. Almost hour.” Thomas, 16, Ariana, 10, and Kendra – really exposed – the toll on the working immediately, parents trying to conceive “It’s simply unsustainable, and the and having a full-time job as a laminator women to have to grapple with this and in October 2019 snatched a spot she an- pandemic has only made that worse.” operator was hard to juggle. figure out what the lack of available, nounced would be open in 2021. For months, Nicole Leitermann has Add in a pandemic, which caused her safe, quality child care means for my ca- The pandemic has only made it worried that she would have to close the husband, Jeramie, to be laid off for a reer.” worse. Dannhoff has been getting three in-home child care business she started couple of months and her children’s or four inquiries per week from parents over two decades ago. schools to close, and it’s even more of a Job losses slams providers desperate to find care as they return to Since the pandemic hit Wisconsin, struggle. Being able to pay a reduced work. She knows many other providers Leitermann often found herself lying rate meant a lot to the Rihas. The thousands of pandemic-related are in the same boat. awake at night, thinking about what “She didn’t have to do that but she did job losses have taken a toll on child care “I feel bad for the (parents) – child else she could do for a living if she anyway,” Riha said of Dannhoff’s enroll- providers. care is so hard to find,” Dannhoff said. couldn’t make ends meet. ment maintenance program. “It was “Most of my parents are single wom- And it’s even more difficult to find in In early spring, before the state’s Saf- very heartfelt and kind of her.” en,” said Keyuante Sholar, the director the midst of a pandemic that has led er at Home order went into effect, she Dannhoff has had a tough year. She of Kids Are Smart II in Milwaukee. some centers to voluntarily operate at had seven children enrolled. But as hasn’t been able to contribute to her re- “They are single parents. Once mom reduced capacity to encourage social businesses closed and parents worked tirement fund. She and her husband put loses her job, there isn’t anyone there to distancing. from home or were laid off and trying to off planned renovations to their home back her up. She has to figure it out.” Some in-home providers, too, have cut costs, that number dropped to just and trips. Around 30 children used to come to opted to limit the number of children in two. She feared what would happen if Now, she worries about winter. Kids Are Smart II on any given day. Re- their care despite the sizable hit to their the number of children in her care dwin- Dannhoff and her husband still wake up cently, it’s been about 10, Sholar said. income. dled to none. every morning and immediately ask Part of that drop is a result of social dis- On average, a National Association “I’ve done this for 22 years and hon- themselves: “Can I smell? Can I taste?” tancing requirements. But a parent’s for the Education of Young Children sur- estly that was the first time that I really When a parent calls Dannhoff, she lost job is the top reason kids aren’t re- vey found enrollment at Wisconsin pro- had to think about what else I could do if worries that one of the eight children turning to day care, Sholar said. viders is about half of what it was before I couldn’t do this anymore,” Leitermann she cares for has been exposed to the vi- For families that can’t afford or find the pandemic. said through tears. “It was so hard.” rus and she might be forced to shut child care, that means someone has to But what is most concerning: The While she made it past that hurdle – down indefinitely. stay home with the kids – especially the survey revealed that 1 out of every 3 Leitermann now has six children en- “It’s always in the back of my mind,” younger ones, who can’t be left home child care programs in Wisconsin said rolled, and another two babies coming she said. alone and are unable to navigate online the facility would have to close without soon – her fears linger. learning without help. additional public assistance to help What will happen if her home be- Another example of the It’s exacerbating a long-standing make ends meet. comes the start of an outbreak? What if ‘shecession’ at work problem in Wisconsin: Families already Congress’ $900 billion COVID-19 re- all of her children are out of her care for were challenged to find quality, afford- lief bill includes $10 billion in relief for weeks on end because they must quar- After the pandemic closed the Uni- able child care before the pandemic. the child care industry, the bulk of antine or are sick themselves? versity of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Chil- Half of Wisconsin ZIP codes are de- which will go toward grants for child Dannhoff, too, worried that COVID-19 dren’s Learning Center for five months, fined by the state Department of Chil- care providers for payroll, cleaning sup- would rip her 32-year-old business Kira Hartley felt lucky to be back to dren and Families as child care deserts – plies and fixed costs like rent. away from her for good. work. She’s the center’s toddler pro- areas with an insufficient supply of li- However, child care advocates say Dannhoff is licensed to care for eight gram coordinator. censed child care providers. The prob- it’s not enough. children, but after the Safer At Home or- But the challenges and curveballs lem is particularly acute in Wisconsin’s der, her enrollment dropped “drastical- have kept coming since reopening in rural counties, where 70% of ZIP codes Providers’ struggles become acute ly.” At one point, she had just two chil- August. are child care deserts. dren attending full time and two others Under normal circumstances, Kava- And then, there’s the cost. The child care workforce has always coming on only a part-time basis and naugh and another teacher were able to Child care is expensive for both par- been resilient, said Ruth Schmidt, exec- was down nearly $5,000 per month – bring their children to the center for af- ents and providers, who have always utive director of the Wisconsin Early about 80% of her income. ter school care. Now, with the center op- operated on thin margins. Childhood Association. It’s had to be – a Absences continued: One family had erating at half its capacity, there’s not The average cost of child care in was provider or teacher must really love kids to pull out for three weeks after being enough space for them. $9,072 per child in Wisconsin in 2019, to pursue a career in the profession. exposed to COVID-19. In early Novem- Unable to find affordable child care according to a report from the nonprofit But the pandemic is pushing many to ber, Dannhoff said, another family was elsewhere, both teachers are taking Child Care Aware of America. That’s a breaking point. out while quarantining as close con- leaves of absence. roughly the cost of in-state tuition and According to a 2018 Center for Amer- tacts to a case. “We already struggle to recruit teach- fees at the University of Wisconsin. ican Progress study, the median hourly Eventually, Dannhoff and her hus- ers and we’re losing two more,” Hartley wage for Wisconsin child care workers band came up with an enrollment main- said in November. “There are so many Reduced capacities add pressure is $10.03, and for preschool teachers, it’s tenance program in which parents pay stories of this ... The issue has always $11.64. half of their weekly tuition during the been there, COVID has only exacerbated Providers try to stay at peak capacity The child care workforce is almost absence, to cushion the blow to Dann- it.”
Other consumers say they’re being Stimulus told by the IRS site that they’ll be mailed a check, even though the consumers Continued from Page 1B said the government has their correct direct deposit information. the address we have on file for you.” Some fear that the IRS site indicates “My first stimulus was direct depos- that they won’t get any payment even ited,” Cataline told me by phone Tues- though the readers are certain that their day. “Why are they mailing a check?” income would allow them to qualify. It is true that some people will get a What should we expect? reduced payment or no payment now. Since the latest $600 payment is half The second round of stimulus pay- of the maximum stimulus that we saw ments started going out the last week of in the spring, the complete phaseout December and will continue through will hit more families this time. early January, according to Luis D. Gar- Eligibility for the payments starts to cia, an IRS spokesperson. phase out at modified adjusted gross in- The stimulus money is being spread comes of $75,000 for single filers and across the economy to consumers in $150,000 for joint filers. three different ways: Direct deposit into The stimulus payment is cut by $5 for bank accounts, the mailing of paper every $100 of income earned above the checks and via new and existing gov- thresholds. For example, a couple earn- ernment-related debit cards. Hint: Some are reporting delays in receiving their second stimulus checks. GETTY IMAGES ing more than $174,000 won’t get a sec- Don’t throw out a new blue Visa debit ond stimulus payment — that compares card if one suddenly pops up in the mail with the $198,000 cutoff with the spring because that card issued by MetaBank Where are trouble spots? fund money. In the past, that process payments. Single people making more could have your stimulus payment on it. led to a glitch and some consumers had than $87,000 wouldn’t get stimulus Garcia said direct deposit payments We saw a great deal of frustration to wait to receive a stimulus check. money now. will be made first to individuals who and confusion back in the spring and H&R Block took to Twitter to state: have valid routing and account informa- summer, as the federal government “The IRS Get My Payment website may What can you do? tion on file. This includes both filers and rolled out the first stimulus payments. display an account number you don’t those that used the Non-filer tool at IRS- Some people had to wait months on recognize. If you took a Refund Transfer, Taxpayers will be able to square .gov to receive their first stimulus pay- end. it may be reflecting that account num- things up when tax filing season begins ment. At the same time, several consumers ber. Check your 2019 return to confirm.” later in January. It’s not terribly reassur- If the IRS doesn’t have routing and said Tuesday that they did not have any H&R Block issued a statement to the ing if you’d like the money now but the account information for a direct depos- trouble receiving the first stimulus pay- Detroit Free Press on Tuesday: “H&R tax return will offer some relief. it, taxpayers will be sent either a check ments in 2019 but they’re now facing Block understands stimulus checks are The 2020 federal income tax return or debit card in the form of a new EIP some type of blip with the second pay- vitally important for millions of Amer- will include a “Recovery Rebate Credit” Card. Paper checks and debit cards re- ments now. icans. The IRS determines where sec- that will apply to both the first and sec- quire more processing and mailing time. Just because things ran smoothly for ond stimulus payments were sent, and ond round of stimulus payments. The IRS plans to relaunch the Get My you the first time apparently doesn’t in some cases, money was sent to a dif- The IRS notes: “If you have not re- Payment online tool soon to include in- mean you’re going to easily get the sec- ferent account than the first stimulus ceived your full payment by the time formation on the second stimulus, ac- ond stimulus. payment last spring. you file your 2020 return, you may claim cording to Garcia. Several readers emailed me Tuesday “We immediately deposited millions the Recovery Rebate Credit on your tax The second round of Economic Im- morning to tell me about a variety of of stimulus payments to customers’ return.” pact Payments – or what the IRS has problems that they’re facing now. bank accounts and onto our Emerald If you’re worried now, the IRS sug- called “EIP 2” – is generally $600 for sin- One huge issue: Many said the IRS Prepaid Mastercard yesterday, and all gests that taxpayers go to IRS.gov to gles and $1,200 for married couples fil- site indicated that their Economic Im- direct deposits are being processed,” ac- track the stimulus payments. The IRS ing a joint return. If you have young chil- pact Payment was deposited Monday cording to the statement. says taxpayers should not call their dren, you could receive more money. into a bank account that isn’t theirs. “If the IRS Get My Payment website bank or the IRS. An extra $600 is available for each Some H&R Block customers in par- displays an account number a customer Given the level of frustration that child who qualifies. But just like the first ticular are upset about payments not doesn’t recognize, H&R Block customer some are experiencing now, though, it is round of stimulus payments, an age ending up in their own bank accounts. service agents are ready to help with ad- best to try to take a breath and not bank limit is in place and parents aren’t get- Some who are complaining used ditional information at 800-HRBLOCK on that stimulus arriving quickly. The ting the extra $600 now for dependents H&R Block for tax preparation services (800-472-5625) and @HRBlockAnsw- stimulus sequel isn’t looking much bet- who are 17 and older. and had the fees withheld from their re- ers on Twitter.” ter than the original production. MONEY USA TODAY ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ 3B PERSONAL FINANCE Consider lessons of 2020 in this year’s financial goals
Russ Wiles Columnist USA TODAY
Drawing up a list of financial resolu- tions for the new year isn’t the routine exercise it once was. The COVID-19 pan- demic has changed that, as it has al- tered so many other behaviors. It’s not just a matter of plotting the usual ways to save more money, cut debt or re-evaluate your spending pat- terns – this year’s three most popular money resolutions, according to Fidelity Investments’ 2021 New Year Financial Resolutions survey. Rather, the CO- VID-19 pandemic and the financial pres- sures it has caused have brought a new sense of urgency to some goals, while posing different challenges and pre- senting new opportunities.
Evaluate spending, budget
Budgeting, for example, ranks as a top financial resolution year in and year out. But this time, things are a bit differ- ent because the pandemic changed The coronavirus pandemic gives you the opportunity to reassess your spending and budget. PIXABAY/STOCK PHOTO spending patterns for many people. If you review how you spent money over the past year or two, you likely can spot home-insurance coverage, or different and a key source of funds to pay down a data-breach security firm. Of those, key differences and perhaps areas for types, if your dwelling has risen in val- credit card balances and so on. But of- only 44% were unique. improvement. ue, you recently completed remodeling fice-shutting measures to control the vi- The 2020 list of most common pass- For example, you’re probably not projects or you set up a new home- rus slowed tax-return processing and words was similar to those from 2019. driving as much anymore so you might based business. the issuance of some refunds by the In- For example, the numerical string not need a car to the same extent. May- ternal Revenue Service. “123456” was near the top both years. be you don’t need to buy as many Cancel unneeded subscriptions “Taxpayers shouldn’t rely on receiv- Other common ones include “pass- clothes, especially for work, or perhaps ing a refund by a certain date, especially word,” “picture1,” “111111,” “qwerty” and you’re spending much less on entertain- While you’re looking at spending, when making major purchases or pay- “abc123.” ment and restaurants. Most likely, you take the time to evaluate your various ing bills,” the IRS warned in December. Review all your online accounts and cut back big time on travel. Maybe you subscriptions, memberships and other “Some tax returns may require addi- delete those you no longer use, Nord- can reduce these expenditures perma- accounts with an eye on eliminating tional review, and processing may take Pass suggests. Favor passwords that are nently. those you no longer use, said Rebell. longer.” unique, complicated and long. “Make an inventory of what you did Look to cancel automated, recurring The IRS said it already expects that in 2020, and use it as a roadmap for payments whether tied to your bank ac- refunds tied to the earned income tax Invest in yourself 2021,” suggested Bobbi Rebell, a certi- count, cellphone or other accounts if credit and the additional child tax credit fied financial planner and adviser for you rarely use those services anymore. won’t be issued before mid-February. Even before COVID-19 arrived, many Splitit, a site that helps people make in- Cancellations don’t need to be per- Americans found that their job and fi- terest-free purchases on installment. manent and might bring about a better Maintain online vigilance nancial-literacy skills were lacking. “Our definition of needs and wants has deal. If you change your mind, you can Now might be a good time to take changed so much.” always resubscribe to a service and The IRS and other entities have courses or make other personal im- might receive a coupon, introductory warned of an uptick in cyber scams tied provements, especially as so much of Assess your insurance needs rate or discount for doing so, Rebell add- to stimulus payments, coronavirus-re- this can be done online. ed. Also, look to reduce paper clutter by lief measures and the like. Given that While people usually think of finan- You might have noticed that you signing up for email statements where many of these federal and state pro- cial resolutions in terms of saving more don’t require the same types or levels of possible. grams are new, it’s easy to get confused. or cutting debt, learning and earning protection as before. Auto insurance is These and other moves to get more Plus, more people are shopping online more also are important, noted Dana an obvious example, now that more organized weren’t necessitated by the amid the COVID-19 outbreak, raising the Anspach, a certified financial planner people are working or studying at home. pandemic, but you might now finally odds of falling victim. with Sensible Money in Scottsdale, Ari- That has meant fewer cars are on the have the time to get it all done. Hence the need to stay alert. Among zona. “Learning is the foundation of road, with a sharp reduction in vehicle key points: Be skeptical about offers both making smarter investment deci- accidents and better insurance deals. Plan for an unreliable tax refund from unfamiliar companies, avoid click- sions and increasing your earning pow- “The staggering drop in accidents ing on attachments and be wary of un- er,” she said. this year resulted in a dramatic drop in Many Americans still haven’t built up solicited messages from tax authorities As with any resolution, Anspach said claims paid by insurers,” said the Con- an emergency fund, and the COVID-19 such as the IRS, which doesn’t initiate it’s critical to devise a plan to make it sumer Federation of America and the outbreak with widespread job losses contact this way. happen by defining actionable steps Center for Economic Justice in a recent didn’t help. But there could be a special Also, take the opportunity to change and putting them on a calendar, now. review of accident statistics. need to accumulate a cash cushion now passwords to lessen the odds of having Other helpful tips include having a men- The groups want to see insurers low- because you probably can’t count on an account hacked. Americans don’t tor or accountability buddy and follow- er premiums – and many have. It thus your annual income-tax refund arriving change their passwords often. Nor do ing a course of action for at least three to might be a good time to evaluate your with as much predictability as in the they utilize complex, lengthy pass- four weeks, until the new behavior be- insurance needs with an eye on shop- past. words. Password manager NordPass comes routine. ping around. Tax refunds are the largest chunk of said it determined this by examining Reach Wiles at russ.wiles@arizona- Conversely, you might need more change many Americans receive all year 275 million passwords, with the help of republic.com.
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DOW JONES INDUSTRIAL AVERAGE S&P 500 • STANDARD & POOR’S NASDAQ COMPOSITE RUSSELL 2000 Closing: 30,391.60 Closing: 3,726.86 Closing: 12,818.96 Closing: 1,979.11 Change: +.6% Change: +.7% Change: +.0% Change: +1.7% +167.71 YTD % Chg: -.7% +26.21 YTD % Chg: -.8% +120.51 YTD % Chg: -.5% +33.20 YTD % Chg: +.2%
MARKET PERFORMANCE BY SECTOR MARKET NOTEBOOK TOP 10 EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS COMMODITIES Sector Close Chg. 4wk 1 YTD 1 Issues NYSE NASDAQ ETF, ranked by volume Ticker Close Chg. % Chg %YTD Commodities Close Prev. Chg. % Chg. % YTD Energy 39.66 +1.70 -1.5% +4.6% Advancing 1,890 2,350 SPDR S&P500 ETF Tr SPY 371.33 +2.54 +0.7% -0.7% Cattle (lb.) 1.15 1.12 +0.03 +2.5% +1.9% Corn (bushel) 4.92 4.84 +0.08 +1.7% +1.6% Materials 73.31 +1.61 +2.2% +1.3% Declining 644 898 iShs Emerg Mkts EEM 53.25 +1.25 +2.4% +3.1% 102 Gold (troy oz.) 1,952.70 1,944.70 +8.00 +0.4% +3.2% Telecom 74.44 +0.82 -0.3% +0.3% Unchanged 45 ProShs UltPro ShtQQQ SQQQ 15.45 -0.39 -2.5% +1.8% Total 2,579 3,350 SPDR Energy XLE 39.66 +1.70 +4.5% +4.6% Hogs, lean (lb.) .71 .71 unch. -0.4% +0.9% Health care 113.77 +0.82 +0.9% +0.3% Issues at 165 iPath Sh Term Fut VXX 17.64 -0.61 -3.3% +5.1% Natural Gas (Btu.) 2.70 2.58 +0.12 +4.7% +6.4% Consumer discret. 160.61 +1.19 +2.1% - 0.1% Oil, heating (gal.) 1.52 1.46 +0.06 +3.9% +2.4% New 52 Week High 95 6SPDR Financial XLF 29.21 +0.13 +0.4% -0.9% Financials 29.21 +0.13 +1.5% -0.9% Oil, lt. swt. crude (bar.) 49.93 47.62 +2.31 +4.9% +2.9% New 52 Week Low 6 iShs iBoxx HY CpBd HYG 87.15 +0.03 ...% -0.2% Silver (troy oz.) 27.57 27.28 +0.29 +1.1% +4.7% Technology 128.73 +0.83 +1.5% -1.0% Share Volume iShares Silver Trust SLV 25.67 +0.32 +1.3% +4.5% Consumer staples 66.72 ... -1.5% -1.1% Total 4,124,495,818 5,520,193,277 Direx S&P500Bear 3x SPXS 4.00 -0.07 -1.7% +2.3% Soybeans (bushel) 13.50 13.17 +0.33 +2.5% +2.6% Wheat (bushel) 6.54 6.42 +0.12 +1.9% +2.1% Industrials 87.26 +0.85 -2.2% -1.5% Advancing 3,299,226,419 4,111,823,823 Direxion SCapBear 3x TZA 6.82 -0.35 -4.9% -0.7% 1,378,149,187 Utilities 61.11 -0.01 -2.3% -2.5% Declining 811,087,240 Unchanged 14,182,159 30,220,267 FOREIGN CURRENCIES FOREIGN MARKETS S&P 500’S BIGGEST GAINERS S&P 500’S BIGGEST LOSERS Currency per dollar Close Prev. 6 mo. ago Yr. ago Country Close Prev. Change %Chg. %YTD British pound .7339 .7372 .8015 .7647 Frankfurt 13,651.22 13,726.74 -75.52 -0.6% -0.5% Company (ticker) Price $ Chg . % Chg. YTD Company (ticker) Price $ Chg . % Chg. YTD Canadian dollar 1.2669 1.2773 1.3557 1.2992 Hong Kong 27,649.86 27,472.81 +177.05 +0.6% +1.5% Occid Petl (OXY) 19.21 +1.76 +10.1 +11.0 Verisign Inc (VRSN) 206.50 -7.08 -3.3 -4.6 Chinese yuan 6.4563 6.4616 7.0664 6.9655 Japan (Nikkei) 27,158.63 27,258.38 -99.75 -0.4% -1.0% Diamondback Energy (FANG) 53.67 +4.73 +9.7 +10.9 Vornado Rlty (VNO) 35.64 -1.02 -2.8 -4.6 Euro .8128 .8162 .8893 .8956 London 6,612.25 6,571.88 +40.37 +0.6% +2.4% Apache Corp (APA) 16.18 +1.41 +9.5 +14.0 PulteGroup Inc (PHM) 41.07 -1.14 -2.7 -4.8 Mexico City 44,908.12 44,703.00 +205.12 +0.5% +1.9% Marathon Oil (MRO) 7.45 +.62 +9.1 +11.7 Moodys Corp (MCO) 284.38 -7.62 -2.6 -2.0 Japanese yen 102.64 103.11 107.50 108.01 Halliburton (HAL) 20.41 +1.58 +8.4 +8.0 Fortinet Inc (FTNT) 141.74 -3.82 -2.6 -4.6 Mexican peso 19.8562 19.9086 22.3914 18.9258 SOURCE Morningstar, Dow Jones Indexes, The Associated Press Going to the gym will look different in 2021
Heather Clark & Lisa Iannucci The Journal News Starbucks has a new Pistachio Latte USA TODAY NETWORK as part of its winter menu. STARBUCKS WESTCHESTER, N.Y. – In a typical year, joining a gym often tops the list of new year’s resolutions as people seek Starbucks to get in shape and live a healthier life- style. 2021 is not a typical year. bundles up The COVID-19 pandemic is still un- derway, and although vaccines are be- ing administered around the world, re- for winter strictions are still in place for many es- tablishments, including gyms and fit- Kelly Tyko ness centers. USA TODAY Gyms across the country were closed in March due to the COVID-19 At Momentum Fitness in Tallahassee, Fla., every other cardio machine has a sign Starbucks kicks off 2021 with a new pandemic. In New York, they were al- saying it is temporarily closed so everyone can practice social distancing. winter menu and additions to its per- lowed to reopen in late August, with ALICIA DEVINE/USA TODAY NETWORK manent lineup. some tough restrictions: gyms could Starting Tuesday at participating only operate at one-third capacity and locations nationwide, customers can required that patrons and staff wear “I also do a short set of exercises two equipment as possible to give everyone order the new Honey Almondmilk masks and social distance. Some up- to three times a week and keep looking the fitness experience they deserve with Cold Brew and Pistachio Latte inspired graded ventilation systems and closed for variations of them on Instagram to as much space as possible to ensure by a beverage that launched at Star- communal shower areas. alleviate boredom with the same ones,” maximum comfort for all members and bucks Reserve Roasteries. The latte is Others, such as Lifeplex Health said Brooks. staff.” made with espresso and steamed milk Club in Rockland closed, citing the CO- Tiffany Schlurensauer started at- If you are heading to any gym for the combined with a sauce made with pis- VID-19 pandemic as the reason for its home workouts with Beachbody back in first time since the quarantine started, tachios and a salted buttery topping. demise. May, just after the pandemic started. Kenyon suggests that you’re properly The Seattle-based coffee giant an- Where does that leave people who “My programs include nutrition masked, haven’t had any COVID-19 nounced that Kale and Portabella want to work out in 2021? plans and accountability groups, which symptoms, and are ready and willing. Mushroom Sous Vide Egg Bites and Gym owners have expressed that was the missing puzzle for me,” said “We have countless members here the returning Honey Almondmilk Flat it’s safe to return to the gym, with their Schlurensauer, who lost 30 pounds in who’ve reported that the hardest part is White are permanent items. upped cleaning regimens and new air six months. “Not having to leave the just stepping back in the club - the rest There also is a Red Velvet Loaf and ventilation systems. house, I can do it on my time and don’t is like riding a bike.” Earth Cake Pop available for a limited While some people are cautiously have to worry about day care for the time, as well as two Starbucks Reserve heading back to those gyms that have kids.” Social aspect of working out whole bean coffees – Guatemala Hue- reopened, others have found new ways Her resolution for 2021? “Definitely to huetenango and Ethiopia Yirgacheffe to exercise, from app-based programs continue working out at home,” said the Some studios are now available via Chelelektu. to Facebook groups to simply walking, Salt Point resident. “With the kids being livestream, so you can have the in-per- The Starbucks Reserve coffee will hiking, or engaging in other outdoor home from school, it was harder for me son benefits of a gym from home. be sold at 3,200 company-operated pursuits. The biggest change may be to make the time, and then the thought Susannah Powell teaches yoga and stores in the USA. The drink had been that those looking to work out have of working out with a mask just com- functional strength classes via lives- served only at Starbucks Reserve discovered they can do it anytime and pletely deterred me.” tream since closing her Hudson River Roasteries, Reserve bars and select anywhere. Yoga studio a few months ago. Starbucks locations, the company “I think that’s the biggest change,” Some are happy to be back “We have regular and accessible yoga said, advising customers to use the said Adrian Killion, a five-time a week classes, but also functional strength Starbucks app to find which locations gym goer who now does on-demand Janna Whearty was happy to be back where students can progressively build carry the coffee. classes at home with Les Milles. “I can at Gold’s Gym in Poughkeepsie once it strength by adding load with resistance Starbucks shared during its Inves- do whatever class I want, when I reopened. She had been going six days a bands and weights,” she said. “This in- tor Day that millennials and Gen-Z-ers want.” week since completing the Heart Asso- corporates strength, balance and mobil- under 30 are two times more likely to That’s in line with a recent survey ciation’s BetterU program in 2018. ity.” drink cold coffee. by the American College of Sports “The routine of going is critical for Hudson River Yoga offers fundamen- Medicine’s Health & Fitness Journal, me, and so the change in how I exercised tal classes so if you are new to yoga and Starbucks’ 2021 winter menu which reports the No. 1 fitness trend for during the shutdown was tough,” she exercising, it’s a great starting point that 2021 will be online training. said. you can do in your living room. Here are descriptions of the limit- When the quarantine began, Ste- Whearty tried to work out virtually “Start with the fundamental classes ed-time items: phanie Carnes started using the Open- but didn’t have the same results. that will give you all the foundations you h Pistachio Latte: The drink is Fit app, which she called a good alter- “I need someone pushing me or I need to join any yoga class,” she ex- available hot, iced and blended and native to the gym; it includes a suppor- don’t work hard enough,” she said. “Go- plained. “With the strength classes you pairs pistachio with espresso and tive Facebook group. Carnes is com- ing back to the gym was something I will learn how to progressively add load steamed milk, finished with a salted, mitting to complete an OpenFit was anxious to do but anxious in a good as your strength builds, so basically you brown, buttery topping. challenge – a streak of consecutive way. The trainers and other people who start where you are and progressively h Honey Almondmilk Cold Brew: workouts – to stay engaged. you see there (in the gym) every day are get stronger and improve balance and The nondairy beverage is made with Her New Year’s resolution is to con- a community and I missed that.” mobility.” Starbucks Cold Brew, combined with tinue to have a healthy relationship Kim Kenyon, the owner of Gold’s All Sport Health and Fitness in Fish- honey, then topped with almondmilk. with exercise and to do the type of ex- Gym in Poughkeepsie, New York, under- kill wants new members to feel comfort- h Earth Cake Pop: The chocolate ercise that she feels is fun and engag- stands that people may be anxious able and safe when they enter so the cake pop is dipped in a “blue chocolaty ing as opposed to an obligation. about returning to a fitness center set- new procedures they implemented be- icing and finished with green and “During the pandemic, my fitness ting while COVID-19 cases are still spik- cause of COVID-19 will remain relatively white sprinkles. classes have become treasured ‘me ing but says that it’s OK to come back. the same in 2021. h Red Velvet Loaf: The dessert time’, as a doctoral student and work- “According to New York State, we’re “When a new member comes in, they combines vanilla cake and classic red ing mother,” said Carnes. “It feels like a very low on the list of possible places of all come in for a different reason,” Sean velvet cake and topped with a white special indulgence in my day, particu- exposure, with only 0.06% of cases oc- Kammerer, general manager of All chocolate icing. larly because I’m doing something I curring in gyms,” she said. Sport, said. “Some want to lose weight, really enjoy. Also, I’m focusing on the A graphic shared by New York Gov. maintain mental balance, or work with New permanent menu items mind-body connection of exercise for Andrew Cuomo on Dec. 11, attests to that a personal trainer. We’re welcoming improved mental health during these number, indicating that gyms account- new members to stay active, stay phys- Starbucks announced these items strange times.” ed for 0.06% of COVID-19 exposure from ical, and stay positive.” would be on the permanent menu: Naomi Brooks canceled her rela- September to November where contact The gym’s director of operations, h Honey Almondmilk Flat White: tively new gym membership after tracers were able to determine the expo- Megan Wiley, added it’s not just about This flat white returns and pairs al- freezing it for a few months during the sure’s source. That is compared with the getting into shape. mondmilk and Starbucks Blonde pandemic. “I am in the more fragile 73.54% which were linked to household “People are willing to be socially dis- espresso with honey. group and am taking extra precautions social gatherings. tant and socialize while at the gym,” Wi- h Kale and Portabella Mushroom to stay safe,” said Brooks. “We’ve been readjusting our clubs for ley said. “We have some ladies who this Sous Vide Egg Bites: Chopped kale She made a New Year’s resolution to months now with plenty of new safety is their second home. As important as it and portabella mushrooms are folded increase how many steps she takes measures in place to keep everyone feel- is to run on a treadmill, it’s important for into cage-free eggs with Monterey each day, using the iPhone Health app ing comfortable and on track,” Kenyon people to have that social aspect as Jack cheese. to track her mileage. said. “We’re balancing out as much well.” We look back at the year’s Hairstylist to the stars Adkin forgettable moments in TV offers more than style tips LIFE Cancellations, disappointments and downright In her motivational memoir, she comes across as USA TODAY | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 | SECTION B bad shows filled our screens. Page 6B down-to-earth and approachable. Page 8B
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LIFELINE MOVIES
HOW WAS YOUR DAY? MEGHAN MCCAIN
“The View” co-host is giving us a look at little lady Liberty. In a post to Instagram On Monday, McCain, 36, shared a series of photos of her new- born daughter Liberty, who she shares with conservative pundit hus- band Ben Domenech. “Someone wanted to see me?” McCain cap- tioned the photos, which included a photo of Liberty wearing a “3 month” sign on her onesie as well as a photo of the infant and her mom in front of a Christmas tree. The photos may come as a pleasant sur- prise to fans, since McCain told fans not to expect to see any pho- tos of baby Liberty anytime soon.
THEO WARGO/ GETTY IMAGES You just want to hang out with these “Monsters.” DISNEY/PIXAR We get to the ‘Soul’ of the Pixar catalog
Kelly Lawler and Patrick Ryan USA TODAY 23. ‘Cars 2’ (2011)
Oh, “Cars 2.” What to say about you? MORGAN LIEBERMAN/GETTY IMAGES Is there a single movie studio whose films elicit more of an emotional You were the movie that made us lose response than Pixar? Just seeing the name above an animated film is THEY SAID WHAT? confidence in Pixar, ever so briefly. We THE STARS’ BEST QUOTES enough to get fans’ hearts beating and emotions running. When you get why you exist, we do, but we’d pre- fer to pretend otherwise. see a Pixar film, you know you’re probably going to leave in tears, hap- Candace Cameron Bure’s social h 22. ‘Cars 3’ (2017) media break is officially over, py or sad. NEW Their playful and profound latest is “Soul” (stream- but it appears she’s already having ing now on Disney+), about a middle-school band teacher who goes on What the third installment in the some second thoughts following “so “Cars” franchise has going for it mostly many unkind comments.” The “Fuller an out-of-body adventure. The film is expected to be a major Oscar is that it’s not “Cars 2.” Despite adding House” star, 44, took to Facebook contender, but how does it stack up against the studio’s other ani- a laundry list of talent to the voice cast Saturday to call for more “respect” on h (Kerry Washington, Nathan Fillion, Ar- social media after her family’s holiday mated hits? We ranked all 23 Pixar movies, from worst to best. Feel mie Hammer and Chris Cooper), it’s photo faced harsh criticism on In- free to disagree, but then you’d be wrong. mostly just a slightly less disappoint- stagram. “I wished blessings upon ing “Cars” film. everyone as I shared it in the spirit of a happy new year, yet so many of you 21. ‘The Good Dinosaur’ (2015) came back with jokes about our ap- pearance and criticism of what you “The Good Dinosaur” doesn’t have a thought would have been a better lot in its story that you haven’t seen be- photo,” Bure wrote. “Shame on you.” fore. Once you get past the initial gim- mick – the meteor that took out the di- nosaurs whizzed right by and the dinos have evolved into a talking, farming, herding society – the plot is a pretty simplistic one. It doesn’t feel nearly so- phisticated enough for Pixar.
20. ‘Cars’ (2006)
The “Cars” sequels have unfortu- nately tarnished the memory of the
The “Cars” toys are great. The movies’ sequels tend to stall out. DISNEY/PIXAR See PIXAR, Page 7B IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY WHO’S CELEBRATING TODAY
Norman Reedus is 52. Eddie Red- BOOK REVIEW mayne is 39. Kate McKinnon is 37. ‘Lie’ pierces the mystery of parenthood USA TODAY SNAPSHOTS© Mark Athitakis choice left them USA TODAY Best-sellers Special to USA TODAY with. Top selling titles for week ending Jan. Early on, 3. Full list in tomorrow’s USA TODAY. Peter Ho Davies’ third novel, “A Lie though, their son Someone Told You About Yourself” is enough to worry 1. A Promised Land (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 240 pp., about. After strug- Barack Obama eeeg), opens with a couple making gling to breathe at 2. Bridgertons: The Duke and I the agonizing decision to abort a fetus birth, he has devel- Julia Quinn that was likely to have serious medical opmental issues, 3. Bridgerton Collection Volume 1 issues if it came to term. “The list of and Davies is an Julia Quinn things the baby might have was four expert at showing 4. The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the pages long,” Davies writes. “Single- how much atten- Horse Charlie Mackesy spaced.” tion parents apply to every movement “Lie,” strictly speaking, isn’t about and comment from an authority figure. 5. Hush-Hush abortion. The bulk of this slim, gemlike “The boy’s preschool teacher has con- Stuart Woods novel is about the son that the parents cerns,” he writes. Later: “The boy’s kin- (all unnamed) do have, constructed dergarten teacher has concerns.” And from the brief scenes of joy, exaspera- then: “The first time they meet with his tion and fear that define parenthood. first grade teacher, she has concerns.” But the decision to terminate the preg- “Concerns,” Davies understands, is a nancy informs the entire novel as the USA TODAY parents process the feelings their Author Peter Ho Davies. LYNN RAUGHLEY See LIE, Page 7B 6B ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY LIFE
TELEVISION 2020 NEWS & VIEWS Lose the remote and these moments
Kelly Lawler Freeform’s “Love in the Time of Corona” USA TODAY or HBO’s “Coastal Elites”? The pandemic changed a lot of 2020 was a truly awful year, and tele- things, but it didn’t stop terrible TV vision didn’t escape the curse. shows. Although there were some wonderful TV shows, exciting live moments and The shows canceled too soon (or the arrival of two promising TV stream- again) ing services this year, there were plenty of stinkers in 2020: Seriously awful new Only in our weird new media era can series, a slew of bad calls on cancella- a show as wonderful and beloved as tions and a few sorry, sad months of “One Day at a Time” be canceled twice. Quibi, a word we might soon forget. The Netflix series, a remake of Nor- While we may never forget some of man Lear’s 1975-84 original, was picked the most tragic parts of 2020, here’s up by Pop TV for a fourth season that hoping these terrible TV shows and mo- aired earlier this spring but was uncere- ments will be erased from our memories moniously dropped from the cable net- (sorry, Steve Carell). work last month, as the ViacomCBS- The cast of “GLOW” were ready to keep fighting, but Netflix threw in the towel owned network dropped original pro- The horrifying substitutes for a on the Emmy-nominated show. NETFLIX gramming. live audience The year also introduced an unfortu- nate new trend: the “un-rewenal,” in The uncanny valley had a field day which series previously promised new with 2020. seasons were given an unwelcome ax, Sporting events, talk shows, awards ostensibly because of the challenges of ceremonies and other TV events depen- filming during the COVID-19 era. Among dent on a live audience shouting, clap- those series were two spectacular gems, ping and jumping for the cameras were Netflix’s Emmy-nominated “GLOW” forced to adjust as COVID-19 precau- and Showtime’s Kirsten Dunst dramedy tions kept the few in-person events as “On Becoming a God in Central Florida.” small as possible. For sports, it meant a That both of these series were created big visual and auditory change – no by and/or starred women, still all-too- more roar of the crowd for a touchdown, rare in Hollywood, only made their un- no audience taking to their feet for a 3- Steve Carell, missed the mark with the timely goodbyes worse. point shot. Netflix series “Space Force.” Attempts to recreate the experience Kaitlyn Dever stars in HBO’s AARON EPSTEIN/NETFLIX A quick bite of Quibi of live spectators included the amusing, pandemic-set “Coastal Elites.” HBO such as the cardboard cutouts and giant Quibi is dead. Long live something teddy bears at baseball games, as well from “Sex and the City” creator Darren else. as the downright terrifying,such as the Bad TV shows that should have Star; David Schwimmer’s Peacock com- The ill-advised but massively funded virtual audience via video chat at NBA been better edy “Intelligence”; Anna Kendrick’s enterprise, from former DreamWorks games. It was hard enough to adjust to a HBO Max series “Love Life”; and CBS All Animation CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg and basketball season played in late sum- Steve Carell, reunited with “The Of- Access’s high-profile remake of Stephen former eBay CEO Meg Whitman, closed mer, but seeing the blue-screened hu- fice” co-creator Greg Daniels, should King’s “The Stand.” All these series had just six months after it launched. The mans in the “stands” of a Hornets game have made for a slam-dunk sitcom, strong talent behind them, but didn’t streaming app aimed to deliver “quick made the experience far too surreal. right? Unfortunately, Netflix’s “Space deliver. bites” of high-quality entertainment to And 2020 was surreal enough on its Force” was one big misfire last spring, the phones of busy viewers on the go. own. wasting the talents of Carell, Lisa Ku- Bad TV shows that were just bad But it was a resounding failure, as its Other bad substitutes: Archival foot- drow, John Malkovich and more. Crin- backers failed to understand what peo- age of earlier crowds for Fox’s “The geworthy dialogue, bad jokes and an Why bring back odious reality series ple actually want from short-form en- Masked Singer” that to an untrained eye identity crisis resulted in a failure to incuding “The Biggest Loser” (USA) or tertainment. Compounded by a pan- would constitute violations of state and launch. “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” demic that kept its potential audience local public health regulations. I also expected more from “Emily in (HGTV) in 2020? Why make too-soon homebound, Quibi was quickly shut- Paris,” Netflix’s love-it-or-hate-it series shows about the pandemic such as tered.
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EDITED Erik Agard By David L. Hoyt and Jeff Knurek 1/6 LAAOYI RJNRAJ BY Zhouqin Burnikel Find and Circle: XHWKHE SAEDNF Five movies with sequels ☑☐☐☐☐ CDCSHNMTUR I A IN ASPOT Four six-letter relatives ☐☐☐☐ Three U.S. presidents ☐☐☐ DOB TOT R S E D S T ACROSS Two neighboring countries ☐☐ 1 “The Americans” “Candle in the Wind” singer (first/last name) ☐☐ RQOTAAMJ L RUH agent Beeman Tuesday’s answer: SHUFFLE QUEEN KING JACK DECK DEAL / MOSS OM L B CN I XONO E 5 Extend across TOSS BOSS LOSS / BARLEY WHEAT RICE / GRAND CENTRAL / BUTTER
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123 Today’s theme ©WIGGLES 3D GAMES TXTPERT 1 2 3 DON’T QUOTE ME® 4 Fruit and veg T P N Across Down 4 Canadian social Rearrange the words to complete the quote. 1. 7425568 1. 769 R A M AMA Use the reformer Nellie APOLOGIZE DONE GET HOWL LET RETRACT THING 5. 727292 2. 5462 phone I P O M 56 keypad to 5 6 McClung offers 8. 2786 3. 6572 P LAYMATE decode the this advice. ______7 9. 64663652 4. 47273 NEVER , NEVER EXPLAIN, clues. L W 5. 732 For example: 8 7 8 ______6. 77863 2 could be A, E K ID I NEVER . THE 9 7. 75 8 6 B or C ... and T I A UNT ______5678 could AND THEM . 10 1/6 9 be LOST S ON D S 1/5 Tuesday’s Answer: “Children are innocent and love justice, while most © USA TODAY and Rich Coulter 1/6 Yesterday’ssolution adults are wicked and prefer mercy.” - Gilbert K. Chesterton LIFE USA TODAY ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ 7B Pixar
Continued from Page 5B original a little bit. While it isn’t bad, it just doesn’t bowl you over the way many Pixar films do. There’s a lot here that worked, from the voice performances to the sense of humor, but it was inevitably just fine.
19. ‘Onward’
We’ll forever refer to this as “the movie about the pants.” Despite a touching finish, this offbeat road movie about two elf brothers (Chris Pratt and Tom Holland) traveling with their dead dad’s sentient legs – and learning to say goodbye to him in the process – never quite gels with its uneven tone and drab animation. The Land of the Dead is eye-poppingly pretty in “Coco.” PIXAR VIA AP 18. ‘Monsters University’ (2013)
“Monsters, Inc.” has one of the best striking animation and a story designed endings of a Pixar film, so it was a good to make you cry. But what keeps the thing the studio didn’t try to give it a se- madcap adventure going are the voice quel. The prequel they gave it instead – performances from Amy Poehler and which seemed to be aimed squarely at Phyllis Smith (Phyllis from “The Office”) the kids who saw the original and were as Joy and Sadness, respectively. So maybe in college at this point, some- much of the movie rests on believing thing they did much more successfully these two characters are emotions who with “Toy Story 3” – was missing the also have emotions, and Poehler and sense of wonder and themes about Smith pull it off flawlessly. childhood that made the original so great. College is too impure for Pixar. 6. ‘Finding Nemo’ (2003)
17. ‘Brave’ (2012) The sea tale of an overprotective fa- ther searching for his lost son is one of “Brave” had so much potential and Pixar’s most overt stories meant for gave the studio its first female protago- both parents and kids, but it never lets nist, but it just couldn’t click. Maybe it the sentiment overpower the comedy. was the structure of the story (which lit- erally featured our heroine moving back 5. ‘Toy Story’ (1995) and forth instead of moving forward), or the subpar humor, or the blatant but (Almost) nothing beats the original. failed attempts at feminism. (When Me- “Toy Story” was a revolutionary film in rida claims she’ll be shooting for her These toys have been with us for more than 25 years. DISNEY/PIXAR more ways that one, and more than 25 own hand at the archery ceremony, it years later, we’re still thinking about it. rings false.) But the lesson is that fairy The movie put Pixar on the map, it pio- tales are strictly Disney’s game. Leave Pair that with one of the studio’s best movie, about bugs. And it’s not trying to neered computer animation, and it fea- Pixar the inanimate objects with emo- characters, food critic Anton Ego be anything more than that. As Pixar tured all the ingredients we have come tions. (voiced by the inimitable Peter O’Toole), movies become increasingly convoluted to know and love in so many of the Pixar and this is a big-budget movie that and emotionally manipulative, this un- movies that followed: emotional story- 16. ‘Incredibles 2’ (2018) manages to feel as intimate as a Parisian derrated gem is refreshing in its simple telling, action sequences, insights on dinner. It’s a testament to how great premise, slapstick humor and endear- the human condition, all-star voice cast The sequel picks up mere seconds af- their other films have been that this is so ing cast of tenacious ants and quirky and protagonists you never would have ter the original finished, but arrived 14 far down the list. circus bugs. thought of yourself. It was hard to top, years after that movie blew audiences but eventually they did. away in theaters. Superhero cinema has 13. ‘Finding Dory’ (2016) 9. ‘Toy Story 4’ (2019) dominated the box office since then, 4. ‘The Incredibles’ (2004) and writer/director Brad Bird’s visual Another of Pixar’s sequels more than Despite ending the “Toy Story” fran- style and humor feel less novel. But it’s a decade after the original film, “Dory” chise on a perfect note in 2010 with “Toy “The Incredibles” is a movie about still an extremely entertaining ride that manages to recapture the themes of Story 3,” Pixar went back to Woody identities. Sure, it’s about a family of manages to re-create many of the famil- family and loneliness while spinning (Tom Hanks) and Buzz (Tim Allen) for a superheroes who happen to have secret ial themes that made the first one great. the story forward in a surprising way. fourth installment of the studio’s long- identities, but it’s also about a middle- The film takes Ellen DeGeneres’ forget- est running franchise. “Toy Story 4” is age couple trying to figure out who they ful fish Dory, who was a sweet pun- slighter and more adventure-driven are in their second act of life and about chline, and gives depth and context to than “3,” but it still delivers a poignant two kids trying to figure out what grow- her disability. sendoff to our favorite cowboy and ing up means. It’s also got some cool ac- space ranger. Plus, it gave us Forky, a be- tion sequences. 12. ‘Up’ (2009) wildered spork with a death wish who’s pure chaos and totally charming. 3. ‘Coco’ (2017) The haters may say that, minus the heartbreaking opener, there isn’t a 8. ‘Toy Story 3’ (2010) Musical, magical and visually splen- whole lot to this movie. And they’d be did, Pixar’s adventure in the Land of the right. But that’s exactly why this movie Perhaps the most millennial movie Dead was a sumptuous and emotional is so powerful. It’s made up of a lot of that Pixar has ever made, “Toy Story 3” experience that found a new way for the “Soul” gives us a sense of “Princess disparate pieces that shouldn’t fit to- finds Andy (John Morris) getting ready studio to examine loss and grief, its and the Frog” déjà vu. PIXAR gether, except for their emotion. Imag- for college, like so many of the kids who most common themes. We dare you not ine pitching this story: Who wants to see saw the original film in theaters. “Toy to weep whenever the heart-tugging, 15. ‘Soul’ a movie about an old man, an outcast Story 3” is about that life transition, but Oscar-winning “Remember Me” comes kid, a talking dog and another old man it also confronts the inevitability of on. Look, we appreciate the gorgeous who’s a villain? This movie shouldn’t death (yes, we’re talking about that animation and stirring reminder that have worked. But it did. scene where they hold hands, and, yes, 2. ‘Toy Story 2’ (1999) you are more than your career. But de- we’re outright sobbing right now), spite being Pixar’s first movie with a 11. ‘WALL-E’ (2008) heady stuff for a kids’ movie but it mi- All “Toy Story” films are about grow- Black co-director (Kemp Powers) and raculously works. It’s also the first kids’ ing up and growing apart, but none so Black lead (voiced by Jamie Foxx), the When you’re going to tell a story that movie to depict day care as a deranged mournfully as the second installment, film’s handling of race is misguided. Not is so harsh on humanity, it helps to have prison state. which introduces Jessie (Joan Cusack), only does jazz musician Joe (Foxx) a protagonist as innocent and (literally) a toy whose owner has grown up and spend most of the movie as a celestial wide-eyed as WALL-E, the trash-com- 7. ‘Inside Out’ (2015) moved on. It was able to keep the essen- blob and later a housecat, but – spoiler pacting robot left all alone on a de- tial theme of “Toy Story” but also ex- alert! – his body also is occupied by a stroyed planet Earth. In between how “Inside Out” has a lot going for it: pand on the universe in an appropriate jaded soul named 22 (Tina Fey) for cute he is watching “Hello, Dolly!” and way, which is what all sequels should much of the film’s second half. Having a putting bras on his eyes, there’s a devas- do. middle-aged white woman essentially tating critique on the world as we know voice a Black character is cringeworthy it, and yet it’s still a very enjoyable 1. ‘Monsters, Inc.’ (2001) (and easily avoidable) casting that dis- movie for children (and plenty of tracts from the movie’s otherwise adults). It’s easy to forget that “Monsters, thoughtful intentions. Inc.” is essentially a John Goodman/Bil- 10. ‘A Bug’s Life’ (1998) ly Crystal buddy comedy about two guys 14. ‘Ratatouille’ (2007) who work at a power plant. The fact that Really the only thing “A Bug’s Life” this same movie also is about childhood, “Ratatouille” is one of Pixar’s most has going against it is that it’s not one of loss of innocence, what we’re truly earnest films, turning something most those cross-generational movies that afraid of and the nature of good and evil people are scared of/disgusted by, a rat, appeals as much to parents as it does to We’re all still reeling from “Inside Out.” is what makes it Pixar’s most imagina- into a most charming and adorable hero. their kids. “Bug’s Life” is just a kids’ DISNEY/PIXAR tive and moving film yet.
on dad jokes. More directly, the father, a ages him to let it go: “Everyone has re- and declining father. Davies wants to Lie writer and teacher, sublimates his un- grets. You know who has regrets? Par- avoid noisy, cliched reckonings, but certainty by working as a volunteer at ents is who.” “Lie” moves to its conclusion at almost Continued from Page 5B an abortion clinic, escorting patients Davies’ overall position is resolutely too low a boil. past rows of pro-life protesters and ab- pro-choice: The “lie” of the title, which The heart of the novel, though, is a grenade people lob into the lives of par- sorbing their jibes. comes from a quotation by the writer piercing depiction of a marriage under ents, exploding the fleeting moments Maybe the experience will provide Anais Nin, is shame. But he also wants intense pressure – the fear for their they think they might be doing the right writing fodder, he thinks, or allow him to to show how the decision to have an child’s future, the struggle for intimacy, thing. make a karmic adjustment. But every abortion lingers, and how the weight a the “scorched whispers” the couple ar- Mom and dad develop all sorts of emotion is tricky now: “He will under- father carries, while different from the gues in. Resolution is important in nov- ironic riffs to handle this, which both stand that he’s not been at the clinic to mother’s, is weight all the same. The els, but it can be a cheat in novels about underscores their feelings and lightens do good, or even to gather material, so novel’s latter pages fall a little flat as Da- parenting. The anxiety might alleviate, the book’s mood. They bemoan their much as to find absolution.” Lacking vies strives to reconcile this hand- Davies knows, but it never quite goes toddler’s “Cheerio squalor” and stock up that, his supervisor at the clinic encour- wringing with the dad’s growing child away. 8B ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY LIFE
BOOKS Celebrity hairstylist Atkin’s ‘Top’ tip: Be fearless
Erin Jensen shortly after expressing appreciation to trous product launch. “We had a dry household and take care of children. It USA TODAY Jenner’s daughter, Kim Kardashian shampoo foam that I was so excited to just never felt like that was what I want- West, for teaching her “to not be f’ing get to market, and it was the first of its ed to do.” Talking with Jen Atkin feels like find- rude,” a reference to an iconic moment kind,” Atkin recalls. About a month lat- A chance encounter with Dave Mat- ing the missing piece of a group text, as from the family’s reality show, “Keeping er, consumers began tagging Atkin in thews in 1999 put her on a different path. if she’d know the per- Up With the Kardashians.” social media posts that showed the The singer encouraged Atkin to pursue fect time to drop a Kris Atkin is so grounded, it almost feels product “exploding in people’s bath- her desires of moving to a big city and Jenner “You’re doing as if the new author infiltrated the celeb rooms.” Her solution? A foam party on going after her dream job. With $300 to amazing, sweetie“ world by way of a Trojan horse whittled Los Angeles’ Sunset Boulevard to ac- her name, and her best friend by her GIF. The celebrity to resemble a stylist. But make no mis- knowledge the blunder and “laugh at it.” side, Atkin headed for Los Angeles. It hairstylist knows Jen- take, Atkin is a cut above the rest. Sales In “Blowing,” Atkin conveys her rest- was a risky move that serves her to this ner has gifted us with for her hair care company, Ouai, were lessness as a teen in Utah, the home of day. “so many good one- projected to surpass $20 million just her adoptive Mormon parents, where “I try to check in with myself period- liners”; the only dif- years after hitting the market in 2016. she “always felt like a fish out of water.” ically and make sure that I’m tapping ference is Atkin there are now 1,262 stores. “Constantly, in the back of my mind, I into that 19-year-old that was fearless, knows the business- Atkin, 40, partly feels so within reach was like, ‘I’d love to do something in that wasn’t afraid of what was on the savvy matriarch whom she praises in because she is incredibly modest. In her beauty or fashion,’ but I think the one other side,” she says. “And at the end of the acknowledgments of her debut book, out now, which is autobiographi- thing I really had a hard time with was the day, I had nothing to lose. I think book, “Blowing My Way to the Top: How cal as well as motivational, she de- just the restrictions that were given to that that’s something that’s kind of to Break the Rules, Find Your Purpose, scribes her notoriety as “being celeb- young women,” says Atkin. “I wasn’t stuck in the back of my mind as I’ve and Create the Life and Career You De- adjacent-ish,” though she has 3.6 mil- taught about what it would look like if I navigated through the salon world, and serve.” lion Instagram followers and climbing. didn’t get married and have kids at 19 through the fashion world, and through “I’m so grateful to have you as a men- She also is fully capable of laughing at and had a career. I was really taught a lot the editorial world, and now in the busi- tor, and to have your cell,” Atkin writes herself and her gaffes, including a disas- about home ec and about how to run a ness of beauty.”
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(N) Undercover Billionaire: Comeback City (N) Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch Utah ranch gold. Disney Liv and Maddie Liv and Maddie Raven’s Home Raven’s Home Big City Greens BUNK’D BUNK’D Hazel returns. Sydney to the Max DisXD Player Select Parker Plays Phineas and Ferb Phineas and Ferb Amphibia Strange beast. Amphibia Double life. Player Select Player Select DIY Holmes Inspection Mike fixes an asbestos problem. Holmes Inspection Mold grows in home. Holmes Inspection Troubled new home. Holmes Inspection Unobserved problems. E! What Happens in Vegas Ashton Kutcher (2008) (7:00) Knocked Up Unexpected pregnancy forces two mismatches to try to coexist. Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl (2007) Nightly Pop (N) Food Guy’s Grocery Games Make from scratch. Guy’s Grocery Games Judges must compete. (N) Kitchen Crash Festival-style food in Paramus, N.J. (N) Guy’s Grocery Games Budget battle. Fox News Tucker Carlson Tonight (N) Hannity (N) The Ingraham Angle (N) Fox News @ Night(N) Freeform The Breakfast Club Detention brings teens together. 13 Going on 30 A geeky teenage girl wakes up as a 30-year-old magazine executive. Jennifer Garner (2004) The 700 Club FX Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Four students fight to survive after being whisked into a game’s jungle setting. Dwayne Johnson (2017) Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Kids whisked into game’s jungle setting. (2017) FXX 300: Rise of an Empire Sullivan Stapleton (2014) Bob’s Burgers Bob’s Burgers Bob’s Burgers Bob’s Burgers Bob’s Burgers Bob’s Burgers GSN America Says Master Minds Family Feud Family Feud Family Feud Family Feud Family Feud Family Feud Hallmark A Royal Winter A new lawyer’s assignment takes her to Europe, where she meets a prince. (2017) The Golden Girls The Golden Girls The Golden Girls The Golden Girls HGTV House In a Hurry (N) House In a Hurry (N) Frozen in Time (N) Frozen in Time (N) Hunters International (N) House Hunters House Hunters Hunters International History Forged in Fire Puzzle piece blade; Japanese ono. Forged in Fire Meat hooks. (N) Forged in Fire Use piano wire or suspension cable. Forged in Fire Judges compete. HLN Forensic Files Forensic Files Forensic Files Forensic Files Forensic Files Forensic Files Forensic Files Forensic Files ID The Murder Tapes Man stabbed in Farmington, N.M. The Murder Tapes Woman is stabbed. (N) True Conviction To catch a killer. (N) True Conviction Family split apart. IFC Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Two and a Half Men Lifetime Married at First Sight Kevin Frazier shares a behind-the-scenes look at the new season and selection. (N) Marrying Millions Couples updates. (N) MotorTrend Bitchin’ Rides A 1951 Ford pickup truck is restored. Bitchin’ Rides “Muscle Machine of the Year” in Ohio. Full Custom Garage A lowrider build. Full Custom Garage Cartoon drawing. MSNBC All in with Chris Hayes (N) The Rachel Maddow Show (N) The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell (N) The 11th Hour with Brian Williams (N) MTV The Challenge A new partnership tests loyalty. (N) Ridiculousness Ridiculousness Ridiculousness Ridiculousness (N) Ridiculousness NatGeo Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller An all-time high. Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller (N) Narco Wars Escobar goes to war with Cali cartel. (N) Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller NatGeo Wild Love Wool Find a Way: More MOO! (N) The Incredible Dr. Pol Great Dane puppy. The Incredible Dr. Pol Dr. Pol cares for baby animals. Love Wool Find a Way: More MOO! Nick Ice Age: The Meltdown Ray Romano (2006) (7:00) Young Sheldon Young Sheldon Friends Friends Friends Thief for maid. Friends OWN 20/20 on OWN A husband is bludgeoned to death. 20/20 on OWN Shot to death. 20/20 on OWN A series of armored truck heists. 20/20 on OWN Girls stabbed their friend 19 times. Oxygen Snapped Massive manhunt through the Ozarks. (N) Snapped A family mysteriously becomes sick. Dateline: Secrets Uncovered Woman drowns in bathtub. Paramount Grown Ups 2 Friends prove glory days aren’t over. Wedding Crashers Two friends sneak into weddings to prey on romantically inspired women. (2005) Coming to America Eddie Murphy (1988) (11:20) Pop NCIS: New Orleans Brother accused. NCIS: New Orleans Baitfish’s message. NCIS: New Orleans Ports are breached. NCIS: New Orleans Militants attack a military convoy. Science BattleBots (N) BattleBots (N) Engineering Catastrophes Crane collapse. Sundance Criminal Minds BAU looks into ritualistic killing. Criminal Minds BAU investigates a copycat killer. Criminal Minds Reid’s girlfriend is kidnapped. Criminal Minds Reid struggles with a personal loss. Syfy The Goonies A group of kids finds buried treasure. Mortal Kombat Three martial arts masters are selected to fight in a mystical tournament. (1995) Mortal Kombat: Annihilation Robin Shou (1997) TBS Big Bang Theory Big Bang Theory Big Bang Theory Big Bang Theory Big Bang Theory Full Frontal Conan Full Frontal TCM Death on the Nile Supersleuth Hercule Poirot investigates a shipload of suspects in a murder. Peter Ustinov, Bette Davis (1978) Agatha Christie’s Poirot: Evil Under the Sun Peter Ustinov, Jane Birkin (1982) TLC My 600-Lb. Life A man winds up in the hospital due to his unhealthy eating habits. (N) 1000-lb Sisters After Amy’s surgery. Dr. Pimple Popper Man has large growths on head. TNT All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite Central Intelligence Geek-turned-CIA agent recruits an old classmate to help save satellite system. (2016) Travel Mysteries of the Unknown A horse risks her life to protect her fellow Marines. (N) True Paranormal: Fact or Faked UFO sighting. (N) True Paranormal: Fact or Faked Civil War cemetery. TruTV Impractical: Inside Jokes Impractical: Inside Jokes Impractical Jokers Impractical Jokers Impractical Jokers Impractical Jokers Top Secret Videos Impractical Jokers TV Land Loves Raymond Loves Raymond Everybody Loves Raymond Ray’s make-out car. Loves Raymond Loves Raymond The King of Queens The King of Queens USA WWE NXT (Live) Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen Evil robots seek artifact to be rulers. Shia LaBeouf (2009) (10:08) VH1 Creed The son of Apollo Creed convinces Rocky Balboa to become his boxing trainer. (2015) (7:00) The Karate Kid A boy is tormented by a bully until a wise man teaches him how to face his fear. (2010) Viceland Ice Road Truckers Dash & danger. Ice Road Truckers Lisa may help rival. Ice Road Truckers Heaviest haul. VICE News Tonight (N) It’s Always Sunny WE Law & Order Husband accused in plot to murder wife. Law & Order A caviar mogul is found dead. Law & Order Death linked to an adulterous website. Law & Order An Iraqi woman is accused of murder. Weather Highway Thru Hell Fleet to oil fields. Highway Thru Hell New driver crashes. Highway Thru Hell In truck in river. Highway Thru Hell On remote road, crews face death. WGN America NewsNation NewsNation NewsNation NewsNation MOVIE NETWORKS Cinemax This Means War Two CIA operatives discover that they are dating the same Punch-Drunk Love A man, averse to love due to seven henpecking sisters, finds Ready or Not A young bride must fight to survive in her woman. Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine (2012) his soulmate. Adam Sandler, Emily Watson (2002) (9:40) husband’s family deadly game. (2019) (11:16) Encore American Gods Shadow discovers the ways of the American Gods Artifact is needed to fix Gungnir Blade: Trinity Two young allies in charge of a team of vampire slayers enter the fray when Blade is drawn dead; Laura meets a group of old friends. spear; Mr. Wednesday describes great warrior. into battle against a band of vampires seeking to resurrect Dracula. Wesley Snipes, Jessica Biel (2004) (9:55) FXM Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates Brothers Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates Two brothers post an ad online to find dates to their sister’s Hawaiian Alien: Covenant Colony spaceship encounters threat shocked by wedding dates. Zac Efron (2016) (7:10) wedding and choose two seemingly normal women, but things do not go as planned. Zac Efron (2016) (9:05) while exploring unknown planet. (2017) Hallmark Movies Ruby Herring Mysteries: Her Last Breath Ruby Herring and Detective Jake Killian investigate a suspicious Ruby Herring Mysteries: Prediction Murder When Ruby Herring receives clues to a murder that happened fatal car accident, then Ruby finds new evidence that casts doubt on their conclusion. Taylor Cole (2019) 5 years earlier involving a psychic, she joins forces with Detective Killian to help crack the case. (2020) HBO 30 Coins Elena examines a teen’s disappearance; Battleship During a Naval war games exercise, an international fleet of ships comes in contact with an alien Baby God Dr. Quincy Fortier’s children navigate his Marquess Roque gives Elena a job offer. armada, and an intense battle erupts between them. Taylor Kitsch, Alexander Skarsgård (2012) (9:05) misdeeds and their sense of identity. (2020) (11:20) Lifetime Movie Pretty Little Dead Girl Emma becomes the lucky recipient of a heart transplant and sets out to discover the Black Hearted Killer A couple decides to donate their daughter’s organs, but the situation becomes identity of the donor, but she learns it might have been a murder victim. (2017) complicated when one of the recipients wreaks havoc on their lives. Julie McNiven, Jon Abrahams (2020) Showtime Batman After witnessing the brutal murder of his parents as a young boy, a wealthy heir decides to battle Batman Returns An unscrupulous businessman, an abandoned penguin-like man and a mysterious cattish crime and corruption as a masked vigilante. Jack Nicholson, Michael Keaton (1989) woman plot to turn Gotham into a crime capitol and ruin Batman. Michael Keaton, Danny DeVito (1992) (10:05) Starz Monsters University When Mike and Sulley first met in Bring It On A spunky cheerleading captain prepares her team for an upcoming Total Recall After visiting a company that implants clients with fake memories, a college, they couldn’t stand each other. (2013) (7:13) competition. Kirsten Dunst, Eliza Dushku (2000) factory worker finds himself on the run after the procedure goes awry. (2012) TMC Countdown A young nurse decides to download an app that predicts when a Forsaken A man returns to his hometown only to learn that a local gang is Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Warriors rise to fight person will die, but hers reveals that she only has three days left to live. (2019) terrorizing it, and he realizes that he may be the only one who can stop them. (2016) evil sheriff. Kevin Costner (1991) SPORTS NETWORKS ESPN NBA Basketball Boston Celtics at Miami Heat from AmericanAirlines Arena (Live) NBA Basketball Los Angeles Clippers at Golden State Warriors from Chase Center (Live) ESPN2 College Basketball Arkansas vs. Tennessee (Live) College Basketball Teams TBA (Live) SportsCenter FS1 College Basketball Georgetown vs. Butler (Live) College Basketball Seton Hail Pirates vs. Cerighton Bluejays (Live) College Basketball Air Force vs. Boise State (Live) Golf PGA Tour Golf 2020 Sentry Tournament of Champions - Final Round from Kapalua Plantation Course in Maui, Hawaii Golf Central MLB MLB Tonight The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! A detective saves the queen of England. (1988) MLB Tonight NBA NBA GameTime (Live) NBA Crunchtime (Live) NBA GameTime (Live) NBCSports Mecum Auto Auctions NFLN NFL Football NFL Total Access An inside look at all 32 teams.
MOVIES Eastern Time may vary in some cities (N) New episode. Baseball teams warned about Latest news, results, opinion training protocol violations 24/7 at sports.usatoday.com SPORTS MLB threatens harsh discipline for violating College football’s top individual honor was award- USA TODAY | WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 | SECTION C facility access protocols before camp. Page 3C ed Tuesday. See who won the Heisman Trophy.
Jarrett Bell Columnist USA TODAY Make or break time in playoffs
The NFL playoffs open Saturday with the first “Super Wild-Card Week- end,” as the league puts it – three games Saturday and three games Sun- day in a postseason expanded to 14 teams with only one bye per confer- ence. The answers are coming. The questions are already here.
Can Tom Brady lead Bucs to Super Bowl as a wild-card entry?
TB12 has Tampa Bay in the playoffs for the first time in 13 years. Why stop with that? With a two-year, $50 mil- lion free agent contract, the Bucs bought Brady’s remarkable postsea- son expertise (a record six Super Bowl rings) to pair with a slew of other nota- ble acquisitions and a formidable de- fense in order to make a championship run. In recent weeks, Brady has been on fire, looking Super Bowl-ready and even striking gold in the deep passing game that was a sore spot for a large swath of the season. The past three games, he’s averaged 379 yards per contest, while firing 10 TD passes with just one pick. Brady and the Bucs haven’t been so buff against better competition, which is what they’ll face in the playoffs.
Will Ravens finally win playoff game with Lamar Jackson?
Maybe a change of venue will help. With Jackson having two of his most 76ers forward Tobias Harris dunks against the Hornets on Monday at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. underwhelming performances in Jan- BILL STREICHER/USA TODAY SPORTS uary, the Ravens were bounced on their own turf in their past two playoff See BELL, Page 5C NBA-best 6-1 Sixers taking care of business While the 6-1 Sixers seemed to have committed the third-most turnovers the potential to be a very good team, so (18.2) in the league. Thomas Moore many moving parts made it appear that “I think we’re getting great defensive Columnist Rivers’ squad would take time to figure confidence earlier than I thought we Bucks County Courier Times out how to play well as a group while would,” Rivers said. “We’ve taken care clubs that have been together longer, of business. I’m very happy with that.” such as the Heat and Lakers, would be Here’s what we learned from the Six- PHILADELPHIA – Given so many in a better position for immediate suc- ers’ fourth consecutive win, a 118-102 new players, coaches and having to cess. victory over the Hornets on Monday Tom Brady leads Tampa Bay into the implement Doc Rivers’ system follow- The Sixers jumped from No. 15 to 2 in night in which seven Philly players NFL playoffs. Can he do for the Bucs ing an abbreviated training camp and the nba.com power rankings heading scored in double figures: what he did so often for the Patriots? preseason, it’s a pleasant surprise that into this week, trailing only the defend- KIM KLEMENT/USA TODAY SPORTS the 76ers are off to the NBA’s best start. ing champion Lakers despite having See MOORE, Page 3C
CFP monitoring COVID-19 NHL divisions sponsored Jimmy Hascup USA TODAY teams have announced those sponsors. ahead of its title game According to Forbes, sales for tickets, First came the advertisements on suites, sponsorships, concessions and Erick Smith “We’re doing the same thing we’ve helmets. Now comes the sponsors at- parking account for more than 70% of USA TODAY done all year. We communicate every tached to division names in this re- total revenue usually. However, last sea- day with the Big Ten on where we are, aligned NHL season. son, the league played 15% of its regular The College Football Playoff champi- and they communicate with the CFP. The league announced Tuesday the season with fans, per Forbes, and all of onship game could be postponed with That’s where we are, so we’re good to official division names for the 2021 its playoffs. The league is starting with- Ohio State dealing with COVID-19 is- go unless an Illinois case occurs. We’re season, and each of them are joined by out fans this season. Forbes said the av- sues ahead of a matchup with Alabama. following the same protocols that a corporate sponsor for the first time. erage team value fell 2% (to $653 mil- The Buckeyes, who were missing key we’ve always had.” The divisions: Scotia NHL North Di- lion) and league revenue dropped 14% contributors in their Sugar Bowl defeat When pressed on the chances of the vision, Honda NHL West Division, (to $4.4 billion) during the 2019-20 cam- of Clemson in their national semifinal, game being played on time, Smith re- Discover NHL Central Division and paign. could be without a position group if the plied: “I can’t share that. Golly, this is MassMutual NHL East Division. h The Scotia NHL North Division is game is played as scheduled on Jan. 11, COVID, man. Who knows what tomor- According to ESPN, the selling of comprised of the Flames, Oilers, Cana- according to multiple reports. row is gonna bring?” naming rights to its divisions is diens, Senators, Maple Leafs, Canucks The playoff committee announced The Buckeyes played short-handed “viewed internally as a one-year-only and Jets. last week a Jan. 18 makeup date if the against Michigan State the following campaign.” h The Honda NHL West Division in- game in Miami Gardens, Florida, is un- week and had their game against As the league gets set for a Jan. 13 cludes the Ducks, Coyotes, Avalanche, able to be played on time. Michigan called off due to the Wolver- start to an abbreviated, 56-game reg- Kings, Wild, Sharks, Blues, Golden Ohio State has been dealing with co- ines being unable to play because of ular season, it has also realigned to Knights. ronavirus issues since November when COVID-19 issues. limit travel during the pandemic, espe- h The Discover NHL Central Division its game against Illinois was canceled In the Big Ten championship game, cially as Canada closed its border. Dur- consists of the Hurricanes, Blackhawks, after multiple positives within the pro- more than 20 players missed it due to ing this season, teams will only play Blue Jackets, Stars, Red Wings, Pan- gram, including coach Ryan Day. injury or COVID-19 protocols. others in the same division, often mul- thers, Predators, Lightning. Ohio State athletics director Gene Alabama also was impacted by the tiple times in a row. h The MassMutual NHL East Divi- Smith told The Columbus Dispatch that coronavirus. Its LSU and Arkansas The NHL also announced recently sion has the Bruins, Sabres, Devils, Is- the team is on schedule to play. “Our games were postponed, and Nick Sa- that it would allow advertisements on landers, Rangers, Flyers, Penguins, goal is to play January 11,” Smith said. ban missed a game due to a positive. player helmets. ESPN reported 13 Capitals. 2C ❚ WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2021 ❚ USA TODAY SPORTS Maine only one to ban racist mascots
Lorenzo Reyes ing Payment, who has lived in USA TODAY Castle Rock, Colorado, a suburb 30 miles south of Denver, for Editor’s note: Part of a series the last 16 years. A member of looking at the debate surround- the nonprofit organization Not ing some high school mascots Your Mascots, Payment is help- as Washington’s NFL team and ing to spread the work of the or- others have announced ganization and is using Maine’s changes in 2020. legislation as a model to pursue a similar tract in Colorado. Pride and honor; history, too. Payment said there are still Those are the reasons – flawed 12 schools in the state that use as they may be – people so of- Native American themed mas- ten threw in the face of Maulian cots. She continues to speak at Dana. school board meetings but has And whenever that hap- focused the majority of her ef- pened, she remembered some- forts on pursuing legislation in thing. the state. It was fall, shortly after Payment described the push 2005. A decades-long debate for legislation as being “in very had often grown combative, preliminary stages.” She add- but the board of Old Town High ed, however, that “many of us School in Old Town, Maine, were let down and felt misled” voted unanimously to elimi- by a 2016 study issued by then- nate the use of “Indians” as its Gov. John Hickenlooper that mascot. They later adopted recognized “local control” as “Coyotes.” the governing authority on Less than a mile away from In this Jan. 15, 2019 photo, Skowhegan Area High School cheerleaders stand beneath a mural of these issues, as opposed to the school sits Penobscot Indi- the school’s mascot on the gymnasium wall in Skowhegan, Maine. The last Maine high school to state direction. an Island Reservation, an islet use an “Indian” nickname has retired the mascot. MICHAEL G. SEAMANS/PORTLAND PRESS HERALD VIA AP What complicates this fur- hugged on all sides by the Pe- ther is that these discussions nobscot River. That’s where with lawmakers are often seen Dana has lived her entire life, acting similar legislation to “The Democratic Party isn’t Pennsylvania and Vermont, as a negotiation within the cat- alongside her family. Maine’s would eradicate this perfect. We need to speak out among others. alog of Native American policy Dana’s little brother was issue “in one-fell swoop” but more on these issues. We’re of- In early November, Dana issues, like land and water playing a football game against acknowledged there were other ten afraid of how this can im- had a Zoom coffee appoint- rights, the pursuit of equitable Old Town. It was close, but the ways to make progress. pact our elections. We need ev- ment with Raven Payment, a housing and health care and Coyotes eventually prevailed. The alternatives, mainly eryone, Democrats, Republi- native of Skowhegan and voting rights. Using Maine as Dana remembers the celebra- outreach and advocacy at the cans – elected officials need to alumna of Skowhegan Area an example, Payment said a tion, helmets tossed skyward, local school district level, step up and speak out. They High School. Before the Maine stalemate over water rights is- Gatorade coolers drained onto though take far longer to pro- can’t condone any of this. legislation passed, it was Pay- sues helped lead to the resolu- coaches, fans pouring onto the duce results. The time and ef- “And it needs to go way be- ment who put Dana in touch tion of the mascot bill in a field. fort required to identify and yond rules and laws. It needs to with tribal leaders as Dana search for compromise. Dana, watching in the visit local school boards is start with education. We need sought to generate awareness. “We’ve never had the carrot stands with her family, turned monumental. There’s also the to have these uncomfortable Part Mohawk and part to dangle to even get Colorado’s to them. fact that such efforts can trig- conversations. Ojibwe, Payment lived through elected officials to the negotiat- Look how proud they are to ger previous traumas for a peo- “White people are often the stigma of seeing her identi- ing table,” Payment said. “But be Coyotes. ple who have a lengthy history afraid to talk about racism and ty reduced to a caricature at to be clear, this threatens our “It’s important to reassure of them in America. prejudice because they can Skowhegan. While she was a sovereignty. these people that none of that Furthermore, local school sometimes feel guilty about it. student there, she appealed for “If we can’t be taken serious- pride in their town, in them- districts are often either un- But until we do, we won’t get the mascot to be changed, but ly over an issue like high school selves, in their kids, goes away,” willing to take on this issue or meaningful change.” she said her efforts never at- sports mascots, it’s really hard Dana, the Penobscot Nation view it as less important than Dana has identified several tracted serious consideration. when we’re facing larger issues Tribal Ambassador, told USA others facing public schools other states as potential targets “It was – how do I put this – dis- like the Dakota Access Pipeline TODAY Sports. “But by chang- across the country. to adopt similar legislation and gusting,” she said. “I don’t talk or getting relief for COVID that ing the mascots, they have a Legislation like Maine’s ef- has scheduled regular confer- to people I grew up with there isn’t body bags.” chance to have a new start fectively takes the decision out ences with tribal leaders and now because of that mascot.” Contributing: The Associat- without actually hurting any- of the hands of local school friends in Colorado, Kentucky, Now Dana is the one assist- ed Press body.” boards. To this day, the problem of “Historically, not only have Native American themed mas- politicians been shy or reluc- cots at schools across the coun- tant to champion Indian issues, try persists. The National Con- many of them have ridden into gress of American Indians office because they felt it was (NCAI) keeps a database that politically expedient to criticize NOTICE tracks them and, according to or belittle them,” Pevar told the list that was last updated USA TODAY Sports. “Still to- LEGAL NOTICE
Dec. 9, there are still 1,916 day, it’s not uncommon for pol- IN THE UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT AND IN EACH CASE IN ITS CAPACITY AS SUCH: (A) EACH O THE DEBTORS; (B) THE schools in 1,025 school districts iticians to take advantage of FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF IRgINIA,RICH OND DI ISION REORGANIED DEBTORS; (C) EACH O THE CONSENTING STAKEHOLDERS; (D) THE In re: ) Chapter 11 ABL AGENT; (E) THE ABL LENDERS; () TERM LOAN AGENT; (G) THE TERM LOAN that use such mascots. The and capitalize on anti-Indian RETAIL GROUP,INC.,et al.,1 ) Case No.20-33113 (KRH) LENDERS; (H) EACH O THE LENDERS AND ADMINISTRATIVE AGENTS UNDER THE Debtors ) (Jointly Administered) EXIT ACILITIES;(I)THE BACKSTOP PARTIES;(J)THE DIP ABL AGENT;(K)THE DIP ABL database lists five mascots as sentiment, so it takes a lot of NOTICE OF CONTINUED HEARINg TO CONSIDER LENDERS;(L)THEDIPTERMAGENT;(M)THEDIPTERMLENDERS;(N)ALLHOLDERSO CONFIR ATION OF THE CHAPTER 11 P AN FI ED BY THE IMPAIREDCLAIMSHOVOTEDTOACCEPTTHEPLAN;(O)ALLHOLDERSOIMPAIRED the most common: “Indians” courage for politicians to speak DEBTORS AND RE ATED OB ECTION DEAD INE CLAIMS HO ABSTAINED ROM VOTING ON THE PLAN OR VOTED TO REJECT THE P EASE TAKE NOTICE THAT PLAN BUT DID NOT TIMELY OPT OUT O OR OBJECT TO THE APPLICABLE RELEASE; (799), “Warriors” (417), out on these issues.” on September 11, 2020, the United States (P) ALL HOLDERS O UNIMPAIRED CLAIMS HO DID NOT TIMELY OPT OUT O OR “Braves” (208), “Chiefs” (181) Though the push to get the Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District ofVirginia (the“Court”) entered an order OBJECTTOTHE APPLICABLERELEASE;(Q)ALL HOLDERSO INTERESTS;(R)THE PLAN [Docket No. 592] (the “Disclosure Statement Order”): (a) authorizing Ascena ADMINISTRATOR; (S) EACH CURRENT AND ORMER AILIATE O EACH ENTITY IN and “Redskins” (95). Maine legislation signed into Retail Group,Inc.and its affiliated debtors and debtors in possession (collectively, OREGOING CLAUSE (A) THROUGH THE OLLOING CLAUSE (T);(T) EACH RELATED the “Debtors”), to solicit acceptances for the Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of PARTY O EACH ENTITY IN THE OREGOING CLAUSE (A) THROUGH THIS CLAUSE (T); Reorganization of Ascena Retail Group, Inc. and Its Debtor Affiliates (as modified, In Maine, this problem has law had been ongoing for years, 2 AND (U) THE CREDITORS’ COMMITTEE; PRvIDD THAT, IN EACH CASE, AN ENTITY amended, or supplemented from time to time, the “Plan”); (b) approving the SHALL NOT BE A RELEASING PARTY I IT: (X) ELECTS TO OPT OUT O THE RELEASES all but vanished. Skowhegan the timeframe from bill to law Disclosure Statement for the Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization of CONTAINED IN THE PLAN; OR (Y) TIMELY OBJECTS TO THE RELEASES CONTAINED Ascena Retail Group, Inc. and Its Debtor Affiliates (the “Disclosure Statement”) as IN THE PLAN AND SUCH OBJECTION IS NOT RESOLVED BEORE CONIRMATION; Area High School was the last came about rather quickly, in containing “adequate information” pursuant to section 1125 of the Bankruptcy PRvIDD RR THAT ANY SUCH ENTITY SHALL NOT RECEIVE THE AVOIDANCE public school to use a Native large part because of a Demo- Code;(c) approving the solicitation materials and documents to be included in the ACTIONAIVER. solicitation packages (the“Solicitation Packages”); and (d) approving procedures AS A“RELEASING PARTY” UNDER THE PLAN,YOU ARE DEEMED TO PROVIDE THE American mascot before its cratic presence that aligned at for soliciting,receiving,and tabulating votes on the Plan and for filing objections RELEASESCONTAINEDINARTICLEVIII.OTHEPLAN,ASSETORTHABOVE.YOUMAY tothePlan. P EASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT CHECKTHEBOXBELOTOELECTNOTTOGRANTTHERELEASECONTAINEDINARTICLE board voted in March 2019 to the highest levels of state gov- the continued hearing at which the VIII. O THE PLAN ONLY I THE COURT DETERMINES THAT YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO Court will consider Confirmation of the Plan (the“Confirmation Hearing”) will now February 25, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. OPT OUT O THE RELEASES AND ONLY I YOU (A) SUBMIT THE BALLOT BUT ABSTAIN retire the “Indians” mascot. ernment. On Jan. 2, 2019, after commence on prevailing Eastern Time,before ROMVOTINGTO ACCEPT OR REJECTTHE PLAN OR (B)VOTETO REJECTTHE PLAN. IN the Honorable Kevin R.Huennekens,in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the THECASEOSUCHADETERMINATIONBYTHECOURTIYOUVOTETOREJECTTHEPLAN, Two months later, a law was eight years of a divided state Eastern District ofVirginia,located at 701 East Broad Street,Suite 5100,Richmond, YOU ILL AUTOMATICALLY BE CONSIDERED TO HAVE OPTED OUT O THE RELEASES, VA23219-1888. enacted that effectively government, Gov. Janet T. Mills P EASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE REGARDLESS O HETHER YOU CHECK THE BOX BELO. I YOU SATISY THE ABOVE that the Confirmation Hearing is scheduled REQUIREMENTS AND CHECK THE BOX BELO (OR VOTE TO REJECT THE PLAN),YOUR banned the use of such mas- was sworn in as the first Demo- to be heard before the Court by remote video conference. You may register for the OPT-OUT ILL ONLY BE EECTIVE I SO ORDERED BY THE COURT.REGARDLESS O Confirmation Hearing through the following hyperlink: https://www.zoomgov. HETHER THE COURT DETERMINES THAT YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO OPT OUT O THE cots in public schools and col- cratic governor in Maine since com/meeting/register/vJItdeyqrz8jHkAKeQlUVJAGYv41No7M9M8. P EASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE RELEASES, I YOU (A) VOTE TO ACCEPT THE PLAN, (B) AIL TO SUBMIT A BALLOT BY that parties who wish to attend the THE VOTING DEADLINE, OR (C) SUBMIT THE BALLOT AND ABSTAIN ROM VOTING leges. 2010. The Democrats also se- Confirmation Hearing but do not intend on participating in the Confirmation TO ACCEPT OR REJECT THE PLAN BUT AIL TO CHECK THE BOX BELO,YOU ILL BE Hearing (listen-only), are not required to register in advance and may attend the DEEMEDTOCONSENTTOTHERELEASESSETORTHINARTICLEVIII.OTHEPLAN. But Maine is one of 50, cured control over the state Confirmation Hearing by using the following dial-in numbers: Phone Number: CRITICA INFOR ATIONREgARDINgOB ECTINgTOTHEP AN Security Code: 22521 1-866-590-5055, Access Code:4377075, ; Phone Number: Previously Filed Objections. To the extent any objections to confirmation prompting an obvious question Senate and House of Repre- 1-888-363-4734,AccessCode:3238664,SecurityCode:22521. P EASE BE AD ISED: of the Plan that were previously filed with the Court remain outstanding and have for the other 49 states: Why sentatives. THE CONIRMATION HEARING MAY BE URTHER been neither resolved nor withdrawn as of the date hereof, such objections are CONTINUED ROM TIME TO TIME BY THE COURT OR THE DEBTORS wITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE expresslypreserved. hasn’t similarly aggressive leg- Dana understood she need- OTHER THAN BY SUCH ADJOURNMENT BEING ANNOUNCED IN Plan Objection Deadline. The deadline for filing new objections to the Plan OPENCOURTORBYANOTICEOADJOURNMENTILEDITHTHECOURTANDSERVED is February 4, 2021, at 5:00 p.m., prevailing Eastern Time (the“Plan Objection islation been passed to elimi- ed to act immediately. She ONALLPARTIESENTITLEDTONOTICE. RE EASES, EXCU PATIONS, AND IN UNCTIONS. Deadline”). All objections to the relief sought at the Confirmation Hearing must: ARTICLE VIII O THE (a) be in writing;(b) conform to the Bankruptcy Rules,the Local Bankruptcy Rules, nate this issue at public schools reached out to Rep. Benjamin PLAN CONTAINS RELEASE, EXCULPATION, AND INJUNCTION PROVISIONS, AND ARTIC E III.F. CONTAINS A THIRD-PARTY RE EASE and any orders of the Court; (c) state, with particularity, the legal and factual across the country? Collings, who has long been a .THUS,YOU ARE ADVISED basis for the objection and, if practicable, a proposed modification to the Plan TO REVIE AND CONSIDERTHE PLAN CAREULLY BECAUSEYOUR RIGHTS MIGHT BE (or related materials) that would resolve such objection;and (d) be filed with the Some other legislatures have champion of Indians-rights is- AECTEDTHEREUNDER. Court (contemporaneously with a proof of service) and served upon the following Third-Party Release: Effective as of the Effective Date, in each case except parties so as to be actually received on or before the Plan Objection Deadline:(i) implemented portions of a ban, sues, and Collings invited Dana for Claims arising under, or preserved by, the Plan, each Releasing Party Co-Counsel to the Debtors: Edward O. Sassower, P.C., Steven N. Serajeddini, P.C., (otherthantheDebtorsandtheReorganizedDebtors),ineachcaseonbehalf KIRK AND & E IS P, 601 Lexington Avenue,New York,New York 10022 -and- but Maine remains alone in in- to address the Democratic cau- of itself and its respective successors, assigns, and representatives, and any John R. Luze, KIRK AND & E IS P, 300 North LaSalle, Chicago, Illinois 60654 stituting a full one. For exam- cus. Dana called upon other and all other Entities who may purport to assert any claim, Cause of Action, -and- Cullen D.Speckhart,Olya Antle,COO EY P,1299 Pennsylvania Avenue,N directly or derivatively, by, through, for, or because of the foregoing entities, Suite 700, ashington, DC 20004-2400; (ii) U.S. Trustee: Kathryn Montgomery, ple, the Massachusetts legisla- trial members to speak to other isdeemedtohavereleasedanddischargedeachDebtor,ReorganizedDebtor, Office of the United StatesTrustee for the Eastern District ofVirginia,701 East Broad and each other Released Party from any and all Causes of Action, whether Street, Suite 4000, Richmond,VA 23219; (iii) Counsel to the ABL Administrative ture drafted a bill that would in- committee members. With the known or unknown, including any derivative claims, asserted or assertable Agent: Matthew . urlong, Julia rost-Davies, Christopher L. Carter, ORgAN on behalf of any of the Debtors, that such Entity would have been legally EwIS & BOCKIUS P, One ederal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110 -and- struct the state Board of Ele- help of Collings, the bill was entitled to assert (whether individually or collectively), based on or relating Tyler P.Brown,HUNTON ANDREwS KURTH P, Riverfront Plaza,East Tower,951 mentary and Secondary passed through the committee, to, or in any manner arising from, in whole or in part, the Debtors (including EastByrdStreet,Richmond,Virginia23219; (iv)CounseltotheAdHocGroup: Evan the management, ownership or operation thereof), the purchase, sale, or R.leck, I BANK P,55HudsonYards,NewYork,NewYork10001; and(v)Counsel Education to initiate regula- then through the House and rescission of any Security of the Debtors or the Reorganized Debtors, the totheOfficialCommitteeofUnsecuredCreditorsAppointedinTheseChapter subject matter of, or the transactions or events giving rise to, any Claim or 11 Cases: Robert einstein, Bradford Sandler, Shirley Cho, PACHU SKI STANg tions barring public schools then through the Senate. Interest that is treated in the Plan, the business or contractual arrangements ZIEH &