There are now 19,968,087 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the USA. There have been 345,737 deaths from the virus here as well. At least 1 of every 17 people in the U.S. has contracted the coronavirus, and 1 in 1,000 Americans has died. Yet the worst may lie ahead.
VIRUS UPDATES:
Biden says 'our darkest days' in battling COVID-19 'are ahead of us.'
December has been the deadliest month in the US since the coronavirus pandemic began -- and the projections for January are 'nightmarish,' an expert says.
340,000 Americans are dead from COVID-19 – and Trump’s malignant narcissism.
The number of patients hospitalized across the US with COVID-19 is the highest it's ever been -- and at this rate, health experts warn they may have to ration nurses, respirators and care.
Please take one minute and listen this doctor talk about people attempting to downplay COVID due to its’ “survival rate”.
At Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital in Los Angeles, there are so many COVID-19 patients some are being put in the gift shop, the chapel, and a conference room.
‘We want them infected,’ Trump Health and Human Services appointee said in email pushing to expose infants, kids and teens to COVID to reach ‘herd immunity.’
The White House systematically tried to cover up its massive COVID-19 outbreaks as Trump and his team were hosting indoor and outdoor superspreader events in Washington and all over the country.
Trump's CDC head took a 'hands-off' approach as frustrated scientists 'clashed' over COVID testing.
In June, Houston's United Memorial Medical Center was so overwhelmed by the pandemic that two of its wings had been transformed into COVID-19 wards. Now, there are three. This hospital is a perfect microcosm of how the disease is escalating.
Oxygen supply issues for the overwhelming number of COVID patients forced five Los Angeles-area hospitals to declare an 'internal disaster.'
The Vatican okayed getting COVID-19 vaccines that used cell lines from aborted fetuses.
Nearly half a million people may have had COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, a study shows. That's almost 10 times the official figure.
COVID cases have been recorded in Antarctica for the first time. The virus has now hit every continent in the world.
New Variant:
The new coronavirus mutation has some scientists worried.
The UK has found a new COVID variant that is far more contagious and already out of control..
Scientists call for UK lockdown after rapid spread of Covid-19 variant.
Cases of new variant of the coronavirus has already appeared worldwide.
French officials announced their first confirmed case of the new coronavirus variant.
Japan will ban entry to foreign nationals after the new COVID-19 variant was detected in that country.
Nigeria placed travel restrictions on South Africans to curb the new COVID variant.
The coronavirus variant in South Africa sparks fear of a faster spread and possible reinfection. Discovery of new variant coincided with a surge in South African COVID-19 cases past the one million mark.
The U.S. is requiring all U.K. arrivals to show a negative COVID-19 test in a bid to stop the spread of the new mutant strain.
The CDC's testing requirements for UK travelers are like 'a chain link fence to keep out a mosquito,' experts say.
Colorado identified the first known case of the UK coronavirus variant in US.
The new COVID-19 variant has now been found in Southern California.
Florida became the 3rd U.S. state to identify the new coronavirus variant.
Doctors believe the new strain of COVID is already in Arizona.
What does this new coronavirus strain mean for you?
The faster-spreading COVID strain affects the young the most, study says.
Precautions are important with the new coronavirus variant.
Vaccine:
The FDA has approved Moderna's COVID vaccine for emergency use.
President-elect Joe Biden received a COVID-19 vaccine. “I’m doing this to demonstrate that people should be prepared, when it’s available, to take the vaccine. There’s nothing to worry about. I’m looking forward to the second shot.”
Dr. Anthony Fauci, US Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar and National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Francis Collins have received their first doses of Moderna's Covid-19 vaccine.
Vice President Mike Pence, his wife Karen ("Mother"), and the surgeon general got their COVID-19 vaccines on-camera.
Kamala Harris received her COVID-19 vaccine on Tuesday.
Republican lawmakers who downplayed coronavirus concerns now face backlash over their early vaccinations.
The CDC issued new guidance about vaccinations for people with underlying health conditions.
The CDC issued new guidance about vaccinations for people with underlying health conditions.
Genetics experts worry the coronavirus vaccines might not work quite as well against the UK variant.
Pfizer and Moderna are testing their vaccines against UK coronavirus variant.
The new AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine is said to be effective against the new COVID-19 variant.
Florida's first-come, first-serve COVID-19 vaccination plan for the elderly leads to scramble and long lines.
Dr. Fauci says that spreading out the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to more people is "under consideration."
Employers are allowed to require employees to get the coronavirus vaccine, the government says. Being required to get vaccinated for work could be the deciding factor for the many Americans who have expressed skepticism of it.
Labeling confusion led to wasted doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in the first days of the rollout.
According to Fox News, West Virginia accidentally gave 42 people COVID-19 treatment instead of the vaccine.
Doctors explain vaccine effectiveness after a nurse gets COVID-19 after taking 1st dose. Doctors say the first vaccine shot gives 50 percent immunity, which doesn't kick in for a week with the Pfizer vaccine and two weeks with the Moderna vaccine.
'Easiest and most painless': UCSF Fresno doctor describes receiving COVID-19 vaccine shot.
In California, wealthy patients are offering top dollar to cut the line for a COVID-19 vaccine.
Rupert Murdoch got his COVID-19 shot while profiting off of vaccine misinformation. Murdoch claims he’s encouraging people to get the shot, but his Fox News hosts are pushing anti-vaccine talking points on air.
Fox News' Tucker Carlson says COVID vaccines are 'anti-white' as anti-vaxxers urge folks to refuse them.
GOP congressman Ken Buck vowed he won’t take the coronavirus vaccine: ‘I’m an American.’
A Wisconsin hospital employee was fired and the arrested after 'intentionally' destroying 500 doses of COVID vaccine.
With just a few days left in the year, alarm bells are going off among health officials across the country over the slow effort to administer tens of millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccine by the end of the year.
Many front-line workers refuse COVID vaccines as the distribution rollout struggles. About 50 percent of workers in California’s Riverside County have refused to take the vaccine, along with 60 percent of nursing home staff in Ohio. (I'll take it if they don't want it.)
In Arizona, a shortage of public health staffers is slowing the vaccine rollout. 4 out of 5 doses that arrived in the state by early this week hadn't been used, waiting for someone qualified to give the shots.
The World Health Organization chief urges rich countries to help ensure people everywhere can get vaccinated against COVID-19.
An exasperated doctor said that people who reject the COVID vaccine should carry a note also refusing ICU treatment.
Masks:
Researchers reject Fox News host Laura Ingraham's misuse of their studies to support mask denialism.
Conservatives are wondering why they’re the only ones getting COVID, ‘Crazy how only Republicans get COVID-19!’
The vice chairman of the Massachusetts Republican State Committee is battling COVID-19 after attending a largely maskless holiday party at the White House earlier this month.
A Minnesota Republican died of COVID-19 after attending a maskless GOP dinner in early November.
Louisiana's Republican Congressman-elect Luke Letlow died after battling COVID-19. He was only 41.
At least one person has been hospitalized for COVID-19 after attending a maskless, indoor Christmas dance party hosted by the Whitestone Republican Club. Several others later tested positive.
Trump is planning a huge New Year’s Eve bash at Mar-a-Lago amid surging COVID-19 cases at $1K a pop. Trump won't even be there though...as he raced back to DC to keep trying to steal the election.
A man had a tantrum on the floor like a toddler when he was asked to wear a mask in Costco.
A black doctor died of COVID-19 after reporting racist treatment at an Indiana hospital.
Just before Christmas, Fresno County ranked No. 1 among U.S. metro areas for COVID-19 spread, says a New York Times analysis.
Valley businesses face more losses as stay-at-home order extended.
POST-ELECTION:
Trump rips GOP senators and still vows to overturn the election. ‘We will win!,’ he says.
Evangelist Franklin Graham says if the ‘wicked’ Democrats win in Georgia, LGBTQ people will be given rights.
Trump Family:
Ivanka went on a photo op of her handing out food to the hungry, It didn’t go very well when she tried to pat herself on the back over Twitter.
Laurence Tribe, legendary law professor and constitutional law scholar at Harvard University, says that Trump's pardons were criminal and he can go to jail for them.
CREATIVITY:
Since I have had company (and still do), I have been cramped for time. Here are more new political ads:
MAIL:
The avalanche of Christmas cards continued through Christmas and just afterwards. I had cards from Becki and her family in Virginia, my friend Michael in Florida, Thom in Palm Springs, and Kamareia and Andre.
I had a holiday news letter from my movie poster collecting friend Troy in Mississippi with a personal note on the back.
I had a card from Linda and her son Rod in Fresno, another from my friend Scott and his family in North Carolina, and one from my former co-worker, Kindra.
Barb & Norm in Nebraska sent a card. My brother and nephew in Washington state sent cards. Rod in Sacramento sent a card. Janet and her husband Tom sent a bonus SHAG card.
I got a Christmas card from Beth & Steve in Oregon.
I had a Christmas day photo of former co-workers Erica, Diana, and Alicia.
My friend Angel in Colombia had some disturbing news. His English is not so good...and his note confused me at first. But read on and it will be made clear. Poor guy. He included some photos and a super short video:
"My feet are swelling much more. Ha ha ha.
My acquaintance Vito send a picture of himself in the snow with a deer wandering by. Huh? Vito is Argentinian. Although he lives in Italy, he has been "stuck" in Argentina since the pandemic started. it is summer down there---so where did the snow come from? I sent him a note and he responded:
ME:
As it crept closer to Christmas, I had to undergo more IVIG treatments for my CIDP. UGH! I so hate them, but know they are necessary.
This time, I only had to have two IVs (as opposed to the three I'd had the last go-round).
I received a glass manatee Christmas ornament in the mail at some point before Christmas. Who was it from? Former co-worker Mike, perhaps? Hmm.
On the 22nd, I found a package on my doorstep. It was some candy-covered pretzels from my former co-worker Silvina.
At one point, I actually attempted (bad idea) to make Christmas cookies. FAIL!
With Erich visiting and my friend Nedra expected Christmas Eve, I had pulled out my tiny little purple Christmas tree.
Despite the pandemic and my plans to spend the holiday alone, it was nice to have my friends come to town to spend it with me...even if it was socially distant.
Nedra had said she wanted to make lasagna on Christmas Eve. She had sent the recipe and I had purchased the ingredients. When she got stuck in traffic, we prepared the meat and sauce. But it was Nedra who put it altogether.
And...voila! Nedra wanted to make lasagna, I think, as a throwback to when we were in high school and made lasagna once...and it had taken us 8 hours to do so. Ha!
What a lovely way to celebrate Christmas Eve...
Oh my stars! He seemed to be very in to the task.
How shocking and shameful... It was nearly full-on Christmas Day turkey porn. Watch at your own risk (it's all of 4 seconds long!):
While trying to help with dinner, Erich had me peel potatoes for mashed potatoes. Of course I ended up almost peeling off my finger in the process. OUCH!!!!
The turkey, although small, turned out wonderfully.
We had a wonderful Christmas dinner for three.
I got her the dumbest thing...these curved Santa slippers with jingle bells on them. I stuffed them with a hot chocolate mix and peppermint schnapps...in commemoration of our trip to the Ahwahnee Hotel and out hot chocolate in the bar last Christmas. Wearing some funky lounging pants her friend Brenda gave her along with the slippers, Nedra did the splits, Ha!
Thank you, everyone. It was all so nice.
On the 26th, we went to the Fantasy of Lights at the fairgrounds, a drive-through holiday experience. There were very few cars in attendance, which made it nice. I was going to just film it all straight out the windsheild, but Nedra took over and filmed it in her own cinema varite style.
On Tuesday, Erich and I made a trip to Costco...and there were signs that hoarding is still going on. Jinkies!
Erich arrived with dinner. Yep, it's a greasy spoon. But it was better than nothing.
Science:
Antibody drugs used to treat Trump and others could cut COVID-19 hospitalizations by half, but they’re not being used by the general public.
A doctor identified a case of coronavirus-related psychosis in a patient.
You can spread COVID-19 to others from nose-picking, and you are also more likely to bring that virus, along with others like influenza or the common cold, directly into your body.
A person, who went to work while sick, is likely the cause of two separate COVID-19 outbreaks in Oregon.
Microvascular injuries have been found in the brains of patients with COVID-19.
Every US coronavirus death is preventable, a health expert says.
Why are flu rates so low but COVID-19 continues to rise?
If you've recovered from COVID-19, your blood could help treat others.
Coronavirus Relief:
GOP senator Ron Johnson blocked a bill to provide $1,200 stimulus checks, citing the country's growing deficit (which didn't seem to bother him when he voted for tax cuts for billionaires).
Congress finally reaches a deal on COVID-19 relief with $600 stimulus checks and jobless benefits--but nothing like they could have been.
A Missouri Republican senator called the new COVID stimulus crap.
Frustration boils over as Trump refuses to sign stimulus while vacationing at Mar-a-Lago.
Maxine Waters blasted Donald Trump for torpedoing pandemic aid.
House Representative Debbie Dingell blasted Trump for wrecking COVID relief at the 11th hour after ignoring it for months.
President Trump failed to sign the COVID-19 relief bill before unemployment benefits expired on Saturday, but he posted a tweet late that night calling for $2,000 payments without shedding light on how he plans to negotiate for it.
Kentucky Republican Senator Rand Paul threw in his two cents on the stimulus package: “Most working Americans don’t need a check right now.”
Ted Cruz got $35 million for billionaire fracking donors in the last coronavirus bill, a report says.
Trump proposes "$2000 + $2000" stimulus checks while continuing to blame China for the pandemic. Trump's economic populist rhetoric is outflanking Democrats from the left and infuriating his own party.
CNN correspondent Errol Louis says he thinks Trump is meddling in the stimulus talks simply to “create drama.”
Trump finally signed the coronavirus relief and government funding bill into law after a lengthy delay and calling it a disgrace.
Tens of million in CARES Act loans went to the families of just 28 Congresspeople.
10 years in prison for illegal streaming? It's in the Covid-19 relief bill.
COVID relief bill passed by Congress to end 'surprise' medical bills.
There's a disturbing provision buried in the stimulus bill that could upend the way we use the internet.
Mitch McConnell blocked an effort to quickly increase direct stimulus payments from $600 to $2,000.
The $600 stimulus checks will arrive in about two weeks.
Politics and the Virus:
A House panel subpoenaed Health and Human Services and the Center for Disease Control chiefs as its investigation into COVID response intensified.
Representative James Clyburn said his coronavirus subcommittee investigators have found evidence of a “political pressure campaign” to “bully” professionals at the CDC in what may have been an attempt to “cripple the nation’s coronavirus response.”
Ivanka Trump screened CDC guidelines, and then made changes—overruling scientists/scientific data. “Demoralizing to spend your entire career preparing for a pandemic, and then have to answer to Ivanka Trump.” Her overruling scientists has severely damaged the CDC.
Trump shared a video that suggests the COVID pandemic, which has reached every corner of the world and killed nearly 2 million people worldwide, was created specifically to make him look bad and lose the election. (Looking bad and losing the election were things he did on his own, but whatever...)
True Stories:
They did everything right. But after one at-home haircut, a husband and wife died of COVID-19.
145 employees infected in COVID outbreak at Yakima Co. Costco store.
They did everything right. But after one at-home haircut, a husband and wife died of COVID-19.
145 employees infected in COVID outbreak at Yakima Co. Costco store.
COVID-19 'ate her through,' say parents of an 18-year-old, killed within days of contracting virus.
Respiratory therapists are some of the unsung heroes of the pandemic.
An ICU nurse walked out of a California hospital after 8 months as a COVID-19 patient.
A black doctor died of COVID-19 after reporting racist treatment at an Indiana hospital.
Delta gifted an employee, who battled COVID-19 for months, a first-class trip anywhere in the world.
Dawn Wells, known the world over as Mary Ann Summers on GILLIGAN'S ISLAND, succumbed to COVID 19.
News:
More than half a million people flew in America on Christmas Day.
United Airlines warns passengers of exposure after possible COVID-related death on flight. It's apparent that the deceased passenger "wrongly acknowledged" that he had not tested positive or had Covid-19 symptoms before boarding, the airline said.
The European Union recommends against nonessential travel to United Kingdom.
Fox News’ ‘utterly insane’ lies about COVID-19 have been slammed in a searing video. “Its viewers can’t get enough and some even watch it from their hospital beds as they die from COVID,” radio host Chip Franklin says in the Really American PAC’s new ad.
Fox News’ ‘utterly insane’ lies about COVID-19 have been slammed in a searing video. “Its viewers can’t get enough and some even watch it from their hospital beds as they die from COVID,” radio host Chip Franklin says in the Really American PAC’s new ad.
Trump is more upset about magazines snubbing Melania for their covers than he is about COVID19 deaths.
Joe Biden plans to hold a national memorial service for US COVID victims. The lighting ceremony will take place on the eve of the inauguration. Cities and towns are invited to join in with illuminations and bells.
Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro warned that the virus vaccine can turn people into 'crocodiles' or bearded ladies.
Russia has vaccinated its cosmonauts against COVID-19.
Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro warned that the virus vaccine can turn people into 'crocodiles' or bearded ladies.
Russia has vaccinated its cosmonauts against COVID-19.
The CDC has apparently been destroying records to cover up political interference in life and death matters.
The US's global reputation hit rock-bottom over Trump's coronavirus response. An international relations expert warns policy failure could do lasting damage as the president insults allies and undermines alliances.
Dr. Deborah Birx abruptly announced her retirement.
Dr. Drew Pinsky has tested positive for COVID-19, months after apologizing for downplaying the virus on Fox News and other outlets.
The pope had to alter Christmas plans as some cardinals tested positive for the virus.
Santa Claus revealed the magic behind his altered, often virtual visits this last Christmas.
Beyoncé is offering $5,000 grants to help 100 people facing foreclosures or evictions due to the housing crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Crowds throng Wuhan, where pandemic began, to celebrate New Year.
The Veteran's Administration ended 2020 with more than 6,500 coronavirus deaths and 150,000 infections.
There's a voluntary nationwide recall of wash-free hand sanitizer due to potential presence of undeclared methanol.
Marco Rubio faced furious Twitter backlash after calling Dr. Anthony Fauci a liar and an elitist.
Trump is taking credit for defeating COVID-19 in a New Year’s Eve rant: ‘Everyone is calling to thank me.’
The COVID pandemic dampened New Year celebrations around the world.
Dr. Fauci discussed life in a post-vaccine world and when it will go back to normal.
The White House is reportedly dropping around $127K on “inaugural cleaning” before Biden moves in. (With the way the virus was spread there, I hope $127,000 is enough!)
Here is a look back at 2020 and some of the weirdness (and creativity) it brought. (Good riddance!)
Here is a look back at 2020 and some of the weirdness (and creativity) it brought. (Good riddance!)
GLOBAL:
There have been 83,445,600 confirmed cases of the virus around the world. There have been 1,818,387 deaths from the virus globally.
There have been 83,445,600 confirmed cases of the virus around the world. There have been 1,818,387 deaths from the virus globally.
Global COVID-19 cases have topped 80 million.
Latin America COVID-19 death toll tops 500,000 as Brazil cases spike.
Latin America COVID-19 death toll tops 500,000 as Brazil cases spike.
The President of Chile was slapped with a $3,500 fine after posing for a selfie with a bystander without wearing a mask. The country has strict rules on mask wearing in all public places.
Uruguay was hailed for beating COVID. Now it’s losing control.
Scientists call for full lockdown in England as new COVID cases multiply.
STATES:
Current COVID-19 hospitalizations in New Hampshire have reached a record level and there were 18 new deaths announced on Thursday.
Scientists call for full lockdown in England as new COVID cases multiply.
STATES:
Current COVID-19 hospitalizations in New Hampshire have reached a record level and there were 18 new deaths announced on Thursday.
Massachusetts coronavirus cases rose 3,659 with more hospitalizations on Tuesday.
Connecticut's coronavirus positive test rate has reached its highest single-day level.
Georgia has seen record hospitalizations throughout the state.
Georgia has seen record hospitalizations throughout the state.
Florida reported 17,192 new cases yesterday, which is the largest single-day jump in new COVID-19 cases.
Arkansas hit a record-high of 1,155 COVID-19 patients in hospitals on Tuesday.
Iowa reported 69 additional COVID-19 deaths on Thursday and more than 280,000 total cases.
Utah reported a record 4,672 new COVID-19 cases and 13 more deaths on New Year's Eve.
Utah reported a record 4,672 new COVID-19 cases and 13 more deaths on New Year's Eve.
New Mexico reported 41 new deaths and 1,684 additional COVID-19 cases on Thursday.
COVID-19 hospitalizations and ICU use hit new highs on Tuesday as Arizona reported about 2,800 new cases and 171 deaths.
COVID-19 hospitalizations and ICU use hit new highs on Tuesday as Arizona reported about 2,800 new cases and 171 deaths.
In Washington, an Island County health officer and several nurses resigned amid the COVID-19 surge on Camano and Whidbey Islands. (My mom, brother, and nephew live on Whidbey! EEK!) Heading into new year, 8,000 COVID deaths are projected in Washington by April 1.
Oregon Health Authority reported 9 more COVID-19 deaths and 1,682 new cases as of yesterday.
Hawaii reported 188 new cases, with 3 additional fatalities, yesterday.
CALIFORNIA:
California surpasses 25,000 deaths.
CALIFORNIA:
California surpasses 25,000 deaths.
California became the first state to surpass 2 million confirmed COVID-19 cases.
'We are getting crushed.' What's behind the alarming rise in California's COVID-19 cases.
California hospitals stressed to the 'brink of catastrophe' by the coronavirus surge.
With COVID-19 hospitalizations rising, a California doctor says sometimes beds only open up when patients die.
More people without underlying conditions are dying from COVID in LA County.
Bodies are piling up, patient care is faltering at Los Angeles County hospitals amid an unprecedented COVID-19 surge.
This is how bad the COVID-19 crisis is in Los Angeles right now.
‘Tragic fact’: The Los Angeles County coronavirus surge will continue into January, officials say.
San Joaquin Valley, Southern California regional stay home orders likely to be extended, Newsom says. The governor said 98% of Californians are currently under the three-week stay home order due to plunging ICU availability.
San Diego County ends 2020 with largest single-day COVID-19 death total of the year.
A California nurse used social media to warn the public about COVID-19. California has a huge rate of coronavirus infections.
A California nurse used social media to warn the public about COVID-19. California has a huge rate of coronavirus infections.
San Francisco’s Latinos are getting infected at higher rates than Latinos in even harder-hit cities.
Governor Newsom announces a new plan to reopen schools for in-person learning as early as February.
Governor Newsom announces a new plan to reopen schools for in-person learning as early as February.
California casinos plan New Year's Eve galas despite COVID-19 threat. Thunder Valley Casino's event is expected to see 6,000 attendees.
Gyms and fitness clubs celebrated a 'significant victory' as they challenged the state's COVID-19 restrictions.
Fresno reported 875 new cases yesterday as California pushes to reopen schools.
Just before Christmas, Fresno County ranked No. 1 among U.S. metro areas for COVID-19 spread, says a New York Times analysis.
Fresno County doctors are fearful of COVID cases after the Christmas holiday.
A US military team arrived in Fresno to help local hospitals fight COVID-19.
'It's heartbreaking': What Valley healthcare workers are seeing on the COVID-19 frontline.
Veteran Fresno Police officer dies after being hospitalized for COVID-19.
Veteran Fresno Police officer dies after being hospitalized for COVID-19.
Another worker at Foster Farms' Fresno plant has died of COVID-19.
Valley funeral homes at capacity following spike in COVID-19 deaths.
The state is ready to help Valley counties in case of a COVID-19 death surge.
Valley businesses face more losses as stay-at-home order extended.
Central Valley Meat Co. in Hanford was cited and is facing fines for lack of COVID-19 safety measures.
Central Unified is delaying transition to in-person learning. The school district was hopeful that it would be as soon as January, but now with the region still in the purple tier and under a stay home order, that start date is looking murky.
Secret New Year’s Eve parties in Fresno? Big COVID-19 fines possible without warning.
Secret New Year’s Eve parties in Fresno? Big COVID-19 fines possible without warning.
POST-ELECTION:
Trump personally pressured more than 150 Republicans to overthrow the election for him, a report says.
140 Republicans to join Trump’s effort to overturn the election on January 6th.
Pence asked a judge to toss a GOP lawmaker's bid to overturn the election results.
Kayleigh McEnany outrageously and dangerously says Trump can just use ‘alternate electors’ when the House and Senate meet on January 6th.
Kayleigh McEnany outrageously and dangerously says Trump can just use ‘alternate electors’ when the House and Senate meet on January 6th.
Pro-QAnon congresswoman-elect urges House Republicans to defy Electoral College results.
Trump bragged about a phone call with a new Senator-elect who wants to block the Electoral College vote. ‘He’s so excited.’
'Bordering on sedition': Democratic senator calls for the sanctioning of GOP lawmakers trying to overturn the election.
New York Attorney General Letitia James accused Donald Trump of sedition.
'Bordering on sedition': Democratic senator calls for the sanctioning of GOP lawmakers trying to overturn the election.
New York Attorney General Letitia James accused Donald Trump of sedition.
Bill Barr said there was no need for special counsels to investigate the election or Hunter Biden.
Former CIA and Pentagon Chief of Staff Jeremy Bash said about the recent Russian hacks that have totally been downplayed by Trump, "This is an epic national security crisis."
Former CIA and Pentagon Chief of Staff Jeremy Bash said about the recent Russian hacks that have totally been downplayed by Trump, "This is an epic national security crisis."
Trump finally addressed Russia's hack — and he blamed China and downplayed the extent of the hack.
Pennsylvania's Lt. Governor trolled Republicans on voter fraud: Trump got ‘100% of the dead mother vote.’
Three cases of fraud were discovered in Pennsylvania---all by Republicans.
Legal Challenges:
Lin Wood and Sidney Powell called on Trump to impound voting machines.
The Trump campaign filed a long shot Supreme Court challenge to Biden’s Pennsylvania win.
Terpsichore Maras-Lindeman, the witness who claimed to be a private intelligence contractor in testimonies meant to back Sidney Powell's election lawsuits, is a conservative podcaster and supporter of President Donald Trump.
Busted? With everyone focused on Trump's cries of election fraud, why do the numbers behind Mitch McConnell's re-election not add up?
Lin Wood and Sidney Powell called on Trump to impound voting machines.
The Trump campaign filed a long shot Supreme Court challenge to Biden’s Pennsylvania win.
Terpsichore Maras-Lindeman, the witness who claimed to be a private intelligence contractor in testimonies meant to back Sidney Powell's election lawsuits, is a conservative podcaster and supporter of President Donald Trump.
Busted? With everyone focused on Trump's cries of election fraud, why do the numbers behind Mitch McConnell's re-election not add up?
Dominion, the election software company, let Rudy Giuliani know that it intends to sue him for his campaign of lies. A Dominion Voting Systems employee is also suing the Trump campaign and allies, alleging defamation.
Rudy Giuliani's 'star' Michigan witness, Melissa Carone, has been slammed with a scathing 'cease and desist' letter from Dominion Voting Systems.
Trump will likely be ‘overwhelmed’ by legal and financial trouble right after leaving office.
New York's investigation into Trump's finances just stepped up a notch, according to a new report.
Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus R. Vance hired forensic accountants in the escalating Trump criminal probe.
Trump asks New York court to throw out his niece’s fraud lawsuit.
Trump Desperation:
Trump rushed back to D.C. on New Year's Eve, fearing he’d lost the GOP and his last-ditch election stealing chances.
Here's how the rest of Trump's desperate effort to stay in power is predicted to play out.
Michael Flynn is still trying to convince Donald Trump to declare Martial Law.
House Republicans met with Trump before Christmas to discuss overturning the election result.
Insiders are terrified of Trump’s latest move. The Pentagon has shut out the Biden transition team. Many are saying ‘sedition’ and ‘treason.’
Michael Flynn says Trump could seize every voting machine across the country, could deploy the military to “swing states” and “rerun” the election.
Trump met with his U.S. House Republican allies to push voter fraud claims and plan for January 6th, when Congress counts the electoral votes.
GOP Senator Josh Hawley officially announced he'll object to Biden's Electoral College certification.
Trump to return to Washington early ahead of a Republican plan to disrupt certification of Biden's win.
Trump is now tweeting that the ‘United States had more votes than it had people.’
The Secret Service has no current plan in place in the event Trump refuses to leave the White House on January 20th.
Georgia Run-Off:
A judge skewered the GOP over a suit targeting newly registered voters in Georgia. The judge questioned the basis for the suit on several grounds, including legal standing, but she also expressed concern that segregating ballots could prompt some potential voters not to cast them.
Former GOP Governor Arnold Schwarzenagger blasted fellow Republicans over their voter suppression efforts.
Finance mogul Ken Griffin is a huge fan of Senator Kelly Loeffler — but why? The hedge-fund billionaire gave big chunks of cash to Kelly Loeffler's PAC — and the timing is intriguing.
Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock shattered fundraising records by hauling in over $100 million each in the past two months, giving them a decisive advantage over GOP Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler in the final stretch of the Georgia Senate runoffs.
Does Senator Kelly Loeffler really not 'show up' 75 percent of the time? Newsweek fact checked.
Trump supporters interrupted Kelly Loeffler at an election rally. (Watch to the very end. The last line is the clincher.)
Does Senator Kelly Loeffler really not 'show up' 75 percent of the time? Newsweek fact checked.
Trump supporters interrupted Kelly Loeffler at an election rally. (Watch to the very end. The last line is the clincher.)
A letter written by Kelly Loeffler helped set the stage for husband’s $10 billion deal. The senator never publicized the letter she signed opposing a moratorium on credit reporting. But months after she did, her husband made a notable acquisition.
A pro-Trump lawyer calls for Georgia runoffs to be boycotted and hints at arresting Loeffler and Perdue.
Kelly Loeffler didn't disclose that a number of recent maxed-out donations came from the family that owns a multibillion-dollar government contractor whose industry she oversees.
Fact check: Kelly Loeffler & David Perdue's ads are full of misleading statements, because these Republican crooks cannot run on the facts.
A Facebook executive has contributed funds to Georgia Republicans — while the company allows lies in the runoffs, a new report says.
Here is a quick look at Kelly Loeffler's press secretary.
A Georgian judge dismissed a Republican Party lawsuit Thursday that tried to close absentee ballot drop boxes after normal business hours.
David Perdue had a rendezvous with karma...and, with just 5 days left before the election, had to quarantine himself after being exposed to a campaign worker who tested positive for the virus.
Lindsey Graham says he will only support a $2,000 stimulus if Perdue and Loeffler win Senate seats.
Texas Senator Ted Cruz is fundraising off of the Georgia senate race, but keeping all of the money for himself.
Wacko lawyer Sidney Powell thinks Georgia's Senate runoff may be 'rigged' to favor the GOP.
USPS agrees to treat Georgia runoff ballots as express mail.
Evangelist Franklin Graham says if the ‘wicked’ Democrats win in Georgia, LGBTQ people will be given rights.
A pastor says that Christians who vote for Democrats in Georgia’s special elections ‘might as well spit in Jesus’ face.’
Misc. News:
“This needs to stop.” GOP Governor Brian Kemp says his family is continuously being harassed by Trump supporters.
Senator Mitt Romney says that Trump has a 'blind spot' when it comes to Russia.
Georgia's Governor Kemp attended a (maskless) White House Christmas party, despite Trump's attacks on him.
Lindsey Graham hinted at the possibility that Biden won’t get to be president because of the tax investigation into his son, Hunter. (That's not how it works, but...)
Former Trump aides were asked whether they have any regrets about working for the president. John Kelly, John Bolton, and other ex-Trump staffers all had the same answer.
Trump Supporters:
California Representative Jackie Speier survived Jonestown and says Trumpers have definitely drunk the Kool Aid.
California Representative Jackie Speier survived Jonestown and says Trumpers have definitely drunk the Kool Aid.
Proud Boys plan to ‘wreak havoc’ at Biden’s inauguration — while dressed in disguise.
Fox News' Sean Hannity wants the United States to end mail-in voting.
Newsmax and Fox News were besides themselves backtracking on election fraud claims involving computer voting system after being threatened with lawsuits.
The Proud Boys’ hotel hangout is shutting down on Jan. 6 ‘wild protest’ day.
Trump supporters seethed after a hotel canceled their reservations ahead of January 6th protest.
An ex-Pence-aide-turned-Trump-critic is ‘very concerned’ about January 6th violence.
Trumpy Louisiana Republican congressman Clay Higgins says if Biden is inaugurated it will mark a ‘conspiracy to dismantle America.’
Trump cultist starts to wonder if pro-Trump conspiracy theories are fake: ‘Maybe QAnon isn’t real.’
Ivanka went on a photo op of her handing out food to the hungry, It didn’t go very well when she tried to pat herself on the back over Twitter.
Ivanka Trump once again whines about ‘cancel culture’ while her own father is trying to cancel a fair election.
Prosecutors believe Ivanka Trump skimmed millions from the 2016 inaugural fund.
Ivanka Trump’s tweet fuels speculation that she is considering a White House run in 2024.
Trump Grift:
Jared Kushner helped create a Trump campaign shell company that secretly paid the president's family members and spent $617 million in re-election cash.
Kimberly Guilfoyle told donors that her boyfriend, Don Jr., likes her dressed up as a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader.
Melania said she’d rather go to the spa than attend one of her husband’s ‘crazy’ MAGA rallies.
Jared Kushner helped create a Trump campaign shell company that secretly paid the president's family members and spent $617 million in re-election cash.
The Federal Election Commission is to be sued if it doesn’t act on Trump and Kushner illegally taking $617 million in campaign funds.
“It’s an utter scam.” A House Republican says the January 6th “objectors” are just “grifting.”
A former Trump official stated that the president will face legal jeopardy for campaign cash that went to his businesses.
Trump Circus:
Donald Trump’s final three weeks in office will be crazy, scholars predict.
Donald Trump’s final three weeks in office will be crazy, scholars predict.
Trump announced a wave of pardons, including Papadopoulos and former lawmakers Hunter and Collins.
A new article from The Atlantic delves into Trump's recent and shocking pardons. "The Framers couldn’t imagine a Congress failing to impeach and remove a corrupt president. Chief Justice Taft couldn't imagine a president abusing the pardon power, and he couldn't imagine the circumstances under which a president would pardon himself."
A federal judge has labeled Donald Trump a ‘criminal who pardons other criminals.’
Laurence Tribe, legendary law professor and constitutional law scholar at Harvard University, says that Trump's pardons were criminal and he can go to jail for them.
Trump's pardons open up Manafort, Stone and him to new legal jeopardy.
The prosecutor in the Manafort case knew a pardon was coming, so he found a legal loophole.
A Delaware judge accused Trump attorney Lin Wood of professional misconduct which may impact his election case.
Federal prosecutors have discussed making a legal request for Rudy Giuliani's electronic communications, two sources familiar with the probe tell NBC News, a sign that the investigation into Giuliani remains active and may soon be ramping up.
Rudy Guiliani is in deep legal jeopardy, but a presidential pardon is likely.
Michigan will go after Sidney Powell's misconduct — and have her disbarred.
For his actions in trying to help Trump overturn the election, Congressman Matt Gaetz has been accused of “sedition” by a fellow Florida lawyer, Pam Keith, who says she plans to file a complaint with the Florida Bar to have him disbarred.
Rupert Murdock's New York Post ripped Trump’s ‘shameful’ attack on fair votes as an ‘undemocratic coup.’
Trump was mocked for posting a truly insane campaign ad 8 weeks after losing the election to Joe Biden.
Trump was mocked for posting a truly insane campaign ad 8 weeks after losing the election to Joe Biden.
The recently pardoned Roger Stone says he will be suing Bill Barr.
Lev Parnas, a former business associate of Rudy Giuliani, has alleged in a federal court filing that outgoing Attorney General William Barr timed his arrest last fall to keep him from testifying at House impeachment hearings to shield Trump.
A Christian pastor sobbed and begged God to give Trump the presidency: ‘We petition the courts of Heaven.’
Pro-Trump lawyer, Lin Wood, bizarrely suggested that Jeffrey Epstein is still alive.
Twitter now alerts Trump that Biden is president every time he lies about election fraud.
Trump Misc.
Trump reportedly discussed bringing back ‘The Apprentice’ as he gets ready to leave the White House.
Trump reportedly discussed bringing back ‘The Apprentice’ as he gets ready to leave the White House.
Trump wants an airport named after him and he has some serious requirements.
The Trump administration quietly decided — again — to allow elephant trophy imports. (Who cares if they are endangered, right?)
Trump & McConnell planted 230 ultra-conservative judges into Federal courts during his term. We’re going to be feeling the effects of the Trump presidency for decades.
Bush's former ethics lawyer says Trump is an ‘incompetent dictator’ — but a ‘shrewder’ plot might have worked for his coup.
Bush's former ethics lawyer says Trump is an ‘incompetent dictator’ — but a ‘shrewder’ plot might have worked for his coup.
Trump is furious…FURIOUS…that Melania was never on any magazine covers as First Lady. Twitter readers took him to task.
Americans can’t stop laughing after Trump falsely suggests he won the Nobel Peace Prize.
Half of Americans think Trump will be remembered as a ‘failed’ president.
Trump reportedly in a horrible place, ‘shattered,’ ‘humiliated,’ ‘embarrassed,’ ‘his whole world upended.’ (Too bad.)
The presidency needs to be 'Trump-proofed' to avoid future abuses.
CREATIVITY:
Since I have had company (and still do), I have been cramped for time. Here are more new political ads:
And here is a wonderful prediction of when Trump is evicted and a sneak peek at his life afterwards:
The avalanche of Christmas cards continued through Christmas and just afterwards. I had cards from Becki and her family in Virginia, my friend Michael in Florida, Thom in Palm Springs, and Kamareia and Andre.
I got a card from Linda and her family in Castro Valley, CA and from Beth and her husband Tom in Fresno.
When I returned to physically therapy after my December treatments, I had a photo and a card from my former therapist Josh waiting for me.
My friend Nedra in Los Angeles got creative and made her own cards. My former Fresno Bee co-worker, Jenny, sent a card. There was a card from George and (Lau)Rina, neighbors from when I was a little kid who we moved away from in 1971 and a card from my former co-worker Karen and her husband Richard. There was also a card from--and perhaps I should not have included it--from the Meidas Touch brothers...the ones who have done a lot of the political ads over the last year.
Friends Cathy & Travis sent a card as did former co-worker, Kati.
On Christmas day, Vye stopped by with two cards from herself and her boyfriend Bryan.
The last (??) Christmas card for the year arrived on the 30th. It was from David and Pablo in Australia. Amazingly, the star-shaped stamps on the envelope (shown behind the card) are real stamps...and feature cartoon likenesses of David and Pablo. Zowie! I'll have to find out how they did that. Very groovy cool.
I also received a Get Well card from my former co-workers during my second series of IVIG infusions. Someone was clever and got a card with a tortoise on it and wrote "Shirley" on her scarf.
Zowie! I have been gone nearly 9 months and they are still thinking of me. They are all such nice people.
"A taxi took me," he said. "I was on a bicycle and the man was drunk and did not see me. He barely saw me fall under the car, driving in reverse and he was driving to the other side. Maybe he thought it was worse.
"The taxi driver was drunk and he crashed me. My leg stayed under the car, but the driver backed up and left before the police arrived. I came home. They didn't take me to the clinic because there are many viruses and it is safer to be at home.
The next day, I got this brief note and photo from him:
"I am better," he said. "They did not catch anyone who drives the taxi. On the contrary, I had to pay 100 dollars and that of a fine for being on a bicycle at 8 at night, when the curfew begins at 9 at night. These countries Latinos are shit in every way.
"The borders are still closed for tourists," he said. "Italy released a special permit, so we have to present some documents to get an authorization from the Italian consulate to be able to travel. But wasn’t easy at all to get to Italy as the controls are very strict and the day I was traveling, many flights got cancelled because of the increase of cases around Europe. So it was a matter of now or never.
"The situation in Argentina right now, I don’t know very well, I don’t really trust the official numbers. I left on December 20th and around that date they said that the cases were decreasing. They supposed to start the vaccination campaign very soon.
"Here in Italy, the situation it’s really complex in terms that there’s a curfew, and a they said that the new mutation of the virus has arrived from England, and this mutation it’s even more contagious. I don't know what to believe anymore. Honestly everything it’s very confusing."
David, in Australia, is nearly 18 hours ahead of us in California. He sent a note detailing how the new year seems so far:
Happy new year," he said. "I hope it is a safe one. So far, 2021 is nice enough. But we are in the West where they have no social distancing and no virus. While we have been here, Victoria has recorded a couple of new cases, which broke the zero streak. So, I'm going back in two days to much less freedom."
I had a super quick note from my friend Mauro in Italy:
"Happy New Year," he said. "We're in lockdown during Christmas holiday. We're fine and without problems. Those days are snowing days...so Christmas and New Year have a fantastic landscape."
SHIRLEY:
People ask about Shirley. I've mentioned this before, but she is hibernating for the winter. She was in the kitchen for a while. I was hesitant to move her as I suspected I might have company and need my guest rooms (I did). Now that Christmas is over and one room is freed up, she is in that guest room. It is much quieter and cooler in there, so hopefully she is enjoying her sleep. She's under the boxes in the foreground below:
People ask about Shirley. I've mentioned this before, but she is hibernating for the winter. She was in the kitchen for a while. I was hesitant to move her as I suspected I might have company and need my guest rooms (I did). Now that Christmas is over and one room is freed up, she is in that guest room. It is much quieter and cooler in there, so hopefully she is enjoying her sleep. She's under the boxes in the foreground below:
ME:
As it crept closer to Christmas, I had to undergo more IVIG treatments for my CIDP. UGH! I so hate them, but know they are necessary.
Eventually, I finished my IVIG (for December, anyway). Hooray!
As if to celebrate, a package arrived from my friend Eric in Costa Mesa, California.
He also included some paper menus (probably so they can be disposed off due to the pandemic) from KonTiki, a famous tiki bar in Tucson, AZ that he had visited not too long before.
My friend Erich came to town on the 21st. We went to pick up dinner at a new place called 559 Taqueria. We'd pre-ordered it to go, you can't eat at restaurants at the moment. Uh... no one seems to have alerted the restaurant. Despite a big plaque in the entryway saying they were COVID compliant, there was little (if any) social distancing in the line to order/pick up and there were people eating at tables within the restaurant. Geez!
My brother send me a Christmas card and a package. Yowza! He hadn't sent me anything for Christmas in ages, so I was very excited.
After braving holiday traffic from LA, Nedra arrived along with a disco ball for festive decoration.
That night, as is becoming more and more usual, I couldn't sleep and found myself up way too late. I went out into the back yard for some reason--perhaps I was looking for Jupiter and Saturn in their alignment. I didn't see them (or Santa), but did take this picture.
After coming inside, I hung garland over Nedra's and Erich's doors and left packed Christmas stockings outside of their doors for them to find Christmas morning.
On Christmas Day, Erich started working on the turkey, getting it ready for dinner.
Vye stopped by to deliver presents and some Christmas goodies. One of the goodies was this bag o' Brach's candy corn. But it wasn't just any kind of candy corn. O' no... It was Turkey Dinner candy corn--and I had been searching for a bag for weeks. It is apparently sold out all over the planet. But yes, on piece tastes like turkey, another like stuffing, another like green beans, etc. Fabulous!
Afterwards, Nedra was super anxious to open presents.
I had several gifts myself. Whoo hoo! I have such great family and friends---and friends that are family, if you know what I mean.
Afterwards, we drove down Christmas Tree Lane, a long-time local favorite for holiday lights. It, too, had very little traffic. But it only had about 1/3 of the houses lit up. Oh well...
Nedra left very early Sunday morning. Sunday evening I staged a fake Fake Jan Day zoom party for my annual Fake Jan Day video. Fake Jan Day is the 2nd (TOMORROW!) and I needed time to edit the thing (and I'm still NOT done. EEEK!). Shookie, Vye and John were the only ones available to do it that night. We will see how it comes out...
Wednesday was my last day of physical therapy...or so I thought. I was told that I was being evaluated that day and they were recommending me for more sessions. Okay...
On the 31st, I got my stimulus money directly deposited into my account. It was only $503.90. Huh? I looked it up online and sure enough, taxes ARE being taken from the checks. I paid off one bill and used the remainder to pay my car registration bill. At least my stimulus help with that.
Last night was New Year's Eve. I was working on my blog all day and was basically in my pajama pants, t-shirt and a jacket. My hair was total bed head. Why bother doing anything? The world is closed. However, as evening creeped on, we decided to do something to celebrate. Erich had a hankering for Asian food. We tried several places, but the ones he wanted were closed. (On New Year's Eve? Really? I know there's a pandemic, but people still need to eat...). Eventually we found this Chinese greasy spoon open and ordered from them. Erich told me (jokingly) to have the champagne on ice for when he got back. We had champagne in the fridge...but "on ice"? Hmm. I don't own an ioce bucket. Luckily I realized my crock pot is ice bucket-shaped. Would that do? (I'm glad I was able to finally use my crock pot for something... Ha!)
In other news, I am relieved that many of my co-workers at the hospital have gotten the vaccination. Shookie, who works at a prison, also got her shot. I can't wait until everyone I know is vaccinated and "safe."
My friend Erich's former co-worker's husband has died of COVID-19.
Vye reported that she had a cousin, her husband, and an uncle with COVID. She reports that they are doing better. Although, the husband and the uncle are not out of the woods yet.
My ex-step mother, mom of my half-brother and sister, is in the hospital and she caught COVID 19 while there.
Happy New Year! 2021 has GOT to be better than 2020.
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