There are now 23,313,103 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the USA. There have been 388,692 deaths from the virus here as well. As our daily death totals now exceed 4,000 per day, more than 90,000 Americans are expected to die of COVID-19 in next three weeks, a CDC forecast shows. Newly reported U.S. virus cases topped 200,000 for the ninth straight day.
VIRUS NEWS:
The US lost an additional 4,300 lives to the virus yesterday.
The US lost an additional 4,300 lives to the virus yesterday.
COVID-19 deaths are 25 percent higher than in any previous week.
With COVID patients overwhelming hospitals, Los Angeles ambulance crews were told not to transport patients who stand little chance of survival.
An entire ICU ward of COVID-19 patients died after the oxygen supply failed.
An entire ICU ward of COVID-19 patients died after the oxygen supply failed.
Atlanta's hospitals report overflowing COVID-19 cases, treating patients in hallways and ambulances.
The new U.K. coronavirus variant is in the U.S. Here's how fast it could spread.
The Japanese Health Ministry has found a new coronavirus variant.
Researchers have discovered another new variant of the COVID-19 virus in Columbus, Ohio. The new 'Columbus strain' of the coronavirus evolved in the US.
A COVID-19 infection grants immunity for five months, a UK study suggests.
COVID-19 deaths are the highest they’ve ever been — and the more infectious variants could make things much worse.
The US just suffered its worst day ever for COVID-19 deaths. But this summer could be 'dramatically better.'
The U.S. is potentially facing ‘perpetual infection’ of COVID in the spring as new variants spread, warns Dr. Scott Gottlieb.
Vaccine:
Vaccine:
The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is not affected by the mutation seen in contagious coronavirus variant, a study indicates.
An epidemiologist has urged the U.S. to vaccinate with the first dose ASAP, as the virus mutates.
Mitt Romney calls the federal government's failure on COVID vaccine distribution 'incomprehensible.' (Hasn't he been paying attention to how the government has been handling things since this all started? Jeepers! This is actually no surprise.)
Vaccine distribution, like tests, is a state-led effort in the U.S.
What the CDC data says about coronavirus vaccine side effects.
An exchange got heated between Florida's governor and a CNN reporter after seniors waited in line overnight to get the vaccine with the state's first come-first served policy.
The Standing Rock Sioux tribe in North Dakota is prioritizing the COVID-19 vaccines for those who speak native languages.
Early data on why some health care workers are delaying the COVID-19 vaccine could help us end the pandemic sooner.
Superintendents push to speed up vaccination of educators: 'We could lose a whole generation of kids.'
The Wisconsin pharmacist who destroyed COVID vaccine is a conspiracy theorist who thinks the vaccine ‘mutates’ DNA.
New York real estate moguls helped their rich pals jump to the front of the line for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Texas became first US state to administer 1 million vaccine doses.
The U.S. has now administered 11 million vaccine doses.
The short shelf life of both the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccines raises the stakes for the largest vaccination effort in US history by forcing clinicians to anticipate the exact number of doses they'll need each day.
Pharmacy techs are being recruited to help get more COVID-19 shots into arms.
Her Majesty the Queen & His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh have received their COVID vaccine.
Pope Francis, 84, and former Pope Benedict, 93, have received the first dose of a coronavirus vaccine, the Vatican said.
Should we change COVID vaccine doses to reach more people? What the data says. Scientists are debating whether to delay, skip or halve doses. But untested tweaks could shake public confidence.
Could delaying a second vaccine dose lead to more dangerous coronavirus strains? Some experts worry the strategy could spur the virus to evolve in harmful ways.
We will need to update the COVID vaccines, an expert says.
Masks:
Six House Republicans were captured on video refusing masks offered by a colleague during the US Capitol insurrection.
‘Have a good day, ni**er’: Watch racist Trump supporters get kicked off of a flight for refusing to wear masks.
‘Have a good day, ni**er’: Watch racist Trump supporters get kicked off of a flight for refusing to wear masks.
Anti-mask protesters stormed a Los Angeles grocery store and mall.
Mar-A-Lago should be shut down and fined for flouting COVID-19 regulations, a Florida lawmaker says.
'It's so hard to breathe': Man close to intubation says he was wrong to believe COVID was just the flu.
Political Virus News:
'It's so hard to breathe': Man close to intubation says he was wrong to believe COVID was just the flu.
Jobless claims surge to 5-month high of 965,000 as winter coronavirus surge hits business.
Although he is not in office yet, Biden laid out his $1.9 trillion COVID relief package with $1,400 stimulus checks. The "American Rescue Plan” also includes $416 billion to help launch a national vaccination program with a goal of vaccinating 50 million people and reopening schools in his first 100 days.
What to do if you don't get your $600 coronavirus stimulus check by January 15.
Yesterday, Trump said he wants billions cut from a global COVID vaccine distributor. The White House has asked Congress to cut $27 billion from a recent spending bill. Among the cuts: $4 billion for a group helping with the international COVID fight. (UGH!!! Why is he still allowed to do anything?)
Another Republican lawmaker died from COVID-19. This time, it’s Virginia State Senator Ben Chafin.
Tennessee officials gave the COVID vaccine to family and friends -- after denying it to 75-year-olds.
Texas Republican Rep. Kevin Brady tested positive for COVID-19.
True Stories:
A COVID-19 vaccine appointment at a Canton, South Dakota hospital turned into a marriage proposal for one healthcare couple.
A COVID-19 vaccine appointment at a Canton, South Dakota hospital turned into a marriage proposal for one healthcare couple.
Married ICU doctors received their coronavirus vaccines together.
A member of a hospital staff wore an inflatable Christmas tree costume that may have infected 44 people and killed one in the Kaiser in San Jose, CA.
A member of a hospital staff wore an inflatable Christmas tree costume that may have infected 44 people and killed one in the Kaiser in San Jose, CA.
Was I really the right person to get the coveted COVID-19 vaccine? Healthy 26-year-old details her experience being in the right place at the right time.
A woman in Louisiana got the COVID vaccine the day after her 103rd birthday.
CNN's Sara Sidner cried during her COVID-19 report: 'We are literally killing each other.'
'Brave' California boy, 15, died of a rare COVID-related illness as his mother also battled the virus.
A nurse who works with coronavirus patients won a $1 million lotto jackpot.
Children and Schools:
Are COVID patients getting younger?
An epidemiologist warns that opening schools isn’t safe yet. Here’s what he says we have to do.
What we know about the spread of COVID among children — and whether shutting schools reduces the risk.
COVID-19 positivity rates in Austin schools worry health officials. Parents should keep children at home if they're able, the district said.
Virus News Misc.
Trump supporters traveled to DC for insurrection — and may return with COVID after the potential super-spreader event.
With funeral homes backed up because of the surge of COVID-19 deaths across Los Angeles, a woman said she had to wait three weeks before being able to hold a funeral for her mother — in a parking lot.
The U.S. needs more COVID testing, and Minnesota has found a way. Get everybody in an entire state to spit into a tube? You betcha.
The Trump administration approved Tennessee's 'reckless' plan to slash Medicaid as the pandemic rages on.
US intelligence agencies have 180 days to share what they know about UFOs, thanks to the COVID-19 relief and spending bill.
The secrets to Israel's coronavirus vaccination success.
A Vietnamese heiress was accused of being a COVID-19 ‘super spreader,’ so she launched hygiene and self-care products for the pandemic.
A Vietnamese heiress was accused of being a COVID-19 ‘super spreader,’ so she launched hygiene and self-care products for the pandemic.
A Utah man was arrested twice for violating a 10-day travel quarantine on Kauai.
A Texas girl may have knowingly exposed hundreds to COVID-19 at a country music concert, a judge says.
As the demand for delivered food increases during the pandemic, Safeway is replacing its delivery workers with DoorDash drivers - but says it's not tied to Prop. 22.
As the demand for delivered food increases during the pandemic, Safeway is replacing its delivery workers with DoorDash drivers - but says it's not tied to Prop. 22.
Here are all of the movies delayed because of the coronavirus — with some new release dates.
GLOBAL:
There have been 93,129,104 confirmed cases of the virus around the world. There have been 1,994,440 deaths from the virus globally. The coronavirus' global death toll could hit 5 million by March, Chinese researchers say.
Brazil’s Amazonas state running out of oxygen amid COVID surge. Brazilian Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello said the hospital system in the city of Manaus is collapsing.
Yesterday, Russia confirmed 24,763 new coronavirus cases and 570 deaths.
29 family members fell ill with COVID. Mexico didn’t count them. Residents and public-health experts say the government’s flawed counting hides an even more alarming death toll.
STATES:
New Boston-area sewage samples show record high signs of COVID-19. The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority has been tracking traces of the coronavirus in wastewater on a daily basis.
There have been 93,129,104 confirmed cases of the virus around the world. There have been 1,994,440 deaths from the virus globally. The coronavirus' global death toll could hit 5 million by March, Chinese researchers say.
Brazil’s Amazonas state running out of oxygen amid COVID surge. Brazilian Health Minister Eduardo Pazuello said the hospital system in the city of Manaus is collapsing.
Yesterday, Russia confirmed 24,763 new coronavirus cases and 570 deaths.
29 family members fell ill with COVID. Mexico didn’t count them. Residents and public-health experts say the government’s flawed counting hides an even more alarming death toll.
STATES:
New Boston-area sewage samples show record high signs of COVID-19. The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority has been tracking traces of the coronavirus in wastewater on a daily basis.
New Jersey reported 5,967 new COVID cases and 94 deaths yesterday as a major vaccination expansion began.
South Carolina confirmed 4,809 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, but the numbers are still incomplete.
Publix grocery chain is set to begin coronavirus vaccinations in Florida. The state added nearly 14,000 coronavirus cases and 222 deaths on Thursday. The state has reported 14,495 cases and 166 deaths each day this week on average
Publix grocery chain is set to begin coronavirus vaccinations in Florida. The state added nearly 14,000 coronavirus cases and 222 deaths on Thursday. The state has reported 14,495 cases and 166 deaths each day this week on average
Pennsylvania allows pharmacies to administer the COVID-19 vaccine, bolstering the fight to stop the virus. The state had 313 more deaths amid COVID pandemic’s deadliest surge and 7,175 new cases yesterday.
Michigan reported 2,698 new cases and 139 additional deaths yesterday.
Michigan reported 2,698 new cases and 139 additional deaths yesterday.
Wisconsin's COVID-19 death rate has risen and hit its highest in 100 days.
There were 1,948 new COVID-19 cases, 41 new deaths reported Thursday in Mississippi.
Minnesota reported its first cases of the coronavirus variant. The strain was detected in specimens from five residents in Twin Cities metro area.
Iowa surpassed 300,000 positive COVID-19 cases.
Louisiana had 3,126 more confirmed cases and 49 deaths reported yesterday.
Louisiana had 3,126 more confirmed cases and 49 deaths reported yesterday.
932 new cases of COVID-19 were reported in Nebraska on Thursday.
Wyoming's coronavirus update yesterday included 412 new cases.
Utah is still working through its vaccine rollout hiccups as the state sees 2,742 new COVID-19 cases and 11 deaths yesterday.
There has been a huge response to a mass COVID-19 vaccination site in Sequim, Washington. It is likely a preview of what’s to come.
Oregon reported 1,152 new cases and 29 deaths on Thursday.
There were 2 deaths and 341 new infections reported Thursday in Alaska.
Hawaii health officials are investigating COVID-19 clusters on Maui and Oahu. There were 179 new cases and 6 deaths of Hawaii residents between the ages of 70 and 109.
CALIFORNIA:
Santa Clara County hospitals bring in refrigerated trailers as morgues reach near full capacity.
Oregon reported 1,152 new cases and 29 deaths on Thursday.
There were 2 deaths and 341 new infections reported Thursday in Alaska.
Hawaii health officials are investigating COVID-19 clusters on Maui and Oahu. There were 179 new cases and 6 deaths of Hawaii residents between the ages of 70 and 109.
CALIFORNIA:
Santa Clara County hospitals bring in refrigerated trailers as morgues reach near full capacity.
1 in 3 Los Angeles County residents has had COVID-19, a new estimate shows.
California officials are urging residents to limit all non-essential travel to within 120 miles from one’s home and avoid traveling to neighboring states or countries.
California is allowing residents 65 and older to get scarce coronavirus vaccines.
Disneyland to host Orange County's first massive vaccination site.
San Bernardino County opened the coronavirus vaccine to seniors.
San Diego County's COVID-19 vaccinations shift into high gear.
LOCAL:
COVID-19 vaccination 'mega site' to open at Fresno Fairgrounds, health officials say. Health professionals could be able to give up to 2,000 vaccines each day at the site.
California is allowing residents 65 and older to get scarce coronavirus vaccines.
Disneyland to host Orange County's first massive vaccination site.
San Bernardino County opened the coronavirus vaccine to seniors.
San Diego County's COVID-19 vaccinations shift into high gear.
LOCAL:
COVID-19 vaccination 'mega site' to open at Fresno Fairgrounds, health officials say. Health professionals could be able to give up to 2,000 vaccines each day at the site.
Vaccine confusion following conflicting messaging from state and county.
The COVID-19 vaccine is available for free to Fresno Co. residents 75 and older at Fresno Fairgrounds, health officials announced on Wednesday.
The COVID-19 vaccine is available for free to Fresno Co. residents 75 and older at Fresno Fairgrounds, health officials announced on Wednesday.
Valley's largest physician group preparing to vaccinate senior citizens.
Fresno County health officials planning to distribute COVID-19 vaccine to the homeless.
Fresno County health officials planning to distribute COVID-19 vaccine to the homeless.
Tulare County health officials had to fix a loophol. that led to ineligible vaccine registrations.
An anti-mask protest was held in front of Fresno's Trader Joe's.
An anti-mask protest was held in front of Fresno's Trader Joe's.
Trump finally admited defeat (sort of)— while lying through his teeth.
Donald Trump declared a holy war in a dark and disturbing (and just plain scary) video which promised much upheaval on January 20th. (HOW and WHY is he still in office?)
Sedition/Treason:
Republican Representative Louis Gohmert from Texas called for rioting after a judge dismissed his election lawsuit.
Ted Cruz has been accused of abetting sedition and inspiring the pro-Trump riot by resisting Biden’s victory.
Video has surfaced of Ted Cruz also inciting Trumpers less than 3 days before the riot.
'Horrifying': A former spokeswoman reacts to Ted Cruz's role in the riot.
AOC and Ted Cruz battled it out on Twitter.
Newbie Senator Josh Hawley of Missouri, who is one of those who was fighting the electoral vote certification, was scorched by Democratic Missouri Congresswoman, Cori Bush: 'You do not speak for us.'
The Kansas City Star proclaimed that "Sen. Josh Hawley has blood on his hands in Capitol coup attempt."
Democrats call for House Republicans who encouraged the violence in the Capitol to be expelled from Congress.
These senators are the Seditious Six:
Attempted Coup/Insurrection/Riot:
Donald Jr. livestreamed video as he and others (including the president) were celebrating just before the president spoke to the mob and the insurrection started. Don Jr. , his girlfriend Kimberly (who shouts "Fight!") and Trump himself can be seen watching the mob gather on television screens. Watch it HERE.
Hear what Trump told crowd before riot.
Rudy Giuliani repeated Trump's narrative and called for “trial by combat” and then chaos descended on Capitol Hill.
Incited by the president, Trump supporters violently stormed the Capitol.
A pro-Trump mob stormed the halls of Congress. Time magazine published some amazing (and shocking) photographs from inside the chaos at the Capitol.
‘Hold the line’: Here is an article of about what it was like inside the House chamber as the pro-Trump mob stormed in.
A news journalist followed the mob inside as the insurrection was taking place and got amazing footage.
The extremists who stormed Congress were not merely attempting a coup, but taking part in a mass delusion.
Black police officers describe the racist attacks they faced as they protected the Capitol. Two officers told BuzzFeed News that their chief and other upper management left them totally unprepared and were nowhere to be found on the day. “That was a heavily trained group of militia terrorists that attacked us, they had radios, we found them, they had two-way communicators and earpieces. They had bear spray. They had flash bangs...They were prepared.”
Congress desperately needed the National Guard during Wednesday's riot— but the the Trump administration was standing in the way.
The governor of Maryland says the National Guard authorization was delayed nearly 2-hours on Wednesday.
The New Yorker had a shocking account told by someone who was on the House floor at the time of the attack.
Nancy Pelosi described the harrowing moments from the insurrection: A ‘violation of the Capitol.’
'Kill him with his own gun': Police describe facing the mob at the Capitol.
Trumpist terrorists violated at least six federal laws.
One female Trump supporter was shot in the attempted insurrection. She later died from her wounds. She had been a QAnon conspiracy enthusiast.
A Capitol police officer reportedly died.
Trump supporters whined after cops turned on them: 'They're supposed to be shooting BLM!'
One person arrested at the pro-Trump riot had 11 Molotov cocktails 'ready to go.'
Pre-Nazi Germany tells us the fight to save American democracy is just beginning.
CNN's Wolf Blitzer says that rioting Trump supporters are ‘probably too stupid to know that they’re heading for jail.’
FBI says it "is seeking information that will assist in identifying individuals who are actively instigating violence in Washington, DC."
Prosecutors are 'looking at all actors,' including Trump, as charges are filed against Capitol rioters.
Arrests are expected soon for Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol, says the acting Attorney General.
Members of several well-known hate groups have been identified at the Capitol riot.
Why was a Ukrainian conspiracy theorist participating in the attack on the United States Capitol?
Gun-toting GOP House freshman did nothing to defend Capitol or her fellow members during the riot. In fact, the QAnon Congresswoman faces calls for arrest after live-tweeting Nancy Pelosi's location to rioters.
Trump tweeted encouragement to MAGA protestors after their deadly protest.
As the Trump-provoked mob stormed the Capitol, Don Jr. pleaded “This isn’t who we are.”
Republicans condemned the violent insurrection at the Capitol that they helped foment.
President George W. Bush condemned the riots: "This is how election results are disputed in a banana republic."
The Justice Department has warned of a national security fallout from the Capitol Hill insurrection. Lawmakers are demanding a "full accounting" of what was taken as rioters ransacked congressional offices.
Here’s who took part in Trump’s attempted coup,
"No one knew what we were supposed to be doing there." Inside the law enforcement chaos at the Capitol. "Everything. Everything went wrong," one Capitol Police officer on the scene said.
"I am calling for the resignation of the chief of the Capitol police and I have received notice that Mr. Irving (Sergeant-At-Arms) will be submitting his resignation," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said.
Trump lashed out at Mike Pence after the vice president declined to do a coup for him.
‘Highly disturbing’: Europe reacts as Trump supporters wage chaos in U.S. capital.
Some pro-Trump media condemned the riots after months of fanning election conspiracy theories.
Fox News' Lou Dobbs thinks lawmakers are being “melodramatic” about the storming of the Capitol. He also wants to know why police would pull guns on pro-Trump rioters: ‘Most are American patriots!’
Newsmax claimed that Antifa dressed up as Trump supporters and were responsible for the MAGA mob insurrection.
Hear a Proud Boy, in his own words, proudly say that he and his MAGA friends, and NOT Antifa, were responsible for the attack on the Capitol.
Cleveland Grover Meredith Jr. was found carrying three guns and hundreds of rounds of ammunition inside a trailer that he drove to Washington for Trump's rally, authorities said. He had texted plans to shoot Nancy Pelosi.
Ginni Thomas, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’ wife, supported rioters before the siege: ‘Love MAGA.’
A GOP congressman deleted a tweet saying he met with 'Stop the Steal' and told them to 'keep fighting.'
Freedom Caucus chair Andy Biggs helped plan the January 6 event, lead organizer says.
MSNBC's Joe Scarborough dropped a live, on-air F-bomb while calling for Trump, Giuliani, Trump Jr. to be arrested.
Jan. 6 was 9 weeks — and 4 years — in the making. Nobody should be surprised by what just happened.
The Republican State Attorneys General Association's dark money group organized the protests that preceded the Capitol mob attack.
The fundraising arm of the Republican Attorneys General Association issued robocalls urging people to march to the Capitol and "stop the steal." The Nebraska AG said he had no knowledge of the calls.
The Alabama attorney general is chair of the Rule of Law Defense Fund, listed as a participant in the Wednesday march that led to the Capitol riot.
Republican attorney generals deny backing the D.C. rally that led to the riot.
Republican Representative Jim Jordan says he seeks 'unity' after trying to overturn the election: Impeachment is 'not healthy for the nation.' (Neither is insurrection. Hello?)
Senator Pat Toomey, a Pennsylvania Republican, said that Trump should resign and could face 'criminal liability.'
Fox News' Jeanine Pirro called the Trump seditionists “outright terrorists.”
Former California Governor and film star Arnold Schwarzenegger says that Trumpism looks just like Nazism.
On Tuesday, Congressman Jamie Raskin buried his son. On Wednesday, he and his daughter fled the Capitol rampage. On Thursday, he prepared articles of impeachment against the president.
Now it's sinking in: The Capitol Hill riot was even more violent than it first appeared. Every new video is worse than the last. As more videos and details come out, it's become clear this was even more than a violent protest — it was a very real attempt on the lives of members of Congress and Mike Pence.
Trump acknowledged the Capitol police deaths after staying quiet for days. The president ordered flags at half-staff on the day of the funeral procession for Officer Brian Sicknick, who died at the hands of the violent mob Trump incited.
Donald Trump signaled that his coup attempts aren't over.
25th Amendment/Impeachment:
Donald Trump should be impeached and removed from office.
Trump attempted a coup: He must be removed while those who aided him pay.
A majority of Americans (56%) believe Donald Trump should be removed from office before his term expires, according to a new ABC/Ipsos poll.
Trump faced calls for his immediate impeachment as his supporters launched insurrection on the U.S. Capitol.
The 25th Amendment explained.
‘This is a coup’: Calls grow for Trump to be removed from office via the 25th Amendment.
Calls grow for Trump to be removed and banned from federal office.
A growing number of GOP leaders believe President Trump should be removed from office before January 20, either by the 25th amendment or impeachment.
A conservative trade group called on Mike Pence to invoke the 25th Amendment 'to preserve democracy.'
Facebook has banned "stop the steal" content from its platform — 69 days after the election.
CBS News reported that members of Trump’s Cabinet were discussing invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Trump.
Trump Cabinet member (and Mitch McConnell's wife) Elaine Chao, Transportation Secretary, fled the sinking Trump ship and resigned after the attack on the Capitol, but before she would have to vote on Amendment 25.
The House has drafted new articles of impeachment against Trump following the attack on the US Capitol Building.
Obama says Trump brought dishonor and shame to the nation by inciting violence.
Former White House Chief of Staff John Kelly says that Trump’s a “laughingstock,” and he supports using the 25th Amendment to oust his former boss.
Rep. Ocasio-Cortez pushes back against some GOP lawmakers suggesting a second impeachment of Pres. Trump would threaten unity: "The process of healing is separate and in fact requires accountability... because without it, it will happen again."
Former FBI Director James Comey argued that Trump shouldn’t be prosecuted by Biden’s new Attorney General after he leaves the Oval Office.
Trump fled DC for Camp David as calls for his removal grew louder.
Trump's second impeachment--the only second impeachment of any US president--started Wednesday.
Pelosi kills McConnell’s plan to obstruct Biden with the Trump impeachment.
The Senate reportedly has the GOP votes to convict Trump if McConnell gives the green light.
Some legal experts on the congressional power of impeachment believe President Trump could be impeached and tried in the Senate even after he leaves office at noon on Jan. 20.
***The House has impeached Trump a second time for his role in the deadly Capitol riot. He just awaits the trial in the Senate.
Trump advisors had to keep him from rushing to the floor yesterday to “defend” himself as the House was impeaching him a second time.
Mitch McConnell says that there is no chance of 'fair' trial before Trump leaves office.
After numerous attorneys have declined to represent President Trump in his upcoming impeachment trial — some because they believe his actions are indefensible — the president may have to settle for Republican Rep. Jim Jordan, Bloomberg reports.
Other Insurrection/Coup/Riot Fallout for Trump and the Republicans:
The attack on the Capitol was supposed to have been so much worse.
Nancy Pelosi has called for the criminal prosecution of Donald Trump.
Business leaders weigh cutting off funds to Republicans involved in electoral objections.
Alan Dershowitz previewed Trump's impeachment defense: Riot incitement is 'protected by the First Amendment.' (Uh...like yelling "fire" in a crowded theater? Uh huh...)
Maddow revealed a letter showing that military Joint Chiefs consider the attack on the Capitol to be 'sedition.'
The PGA apparently plans to strip Trump Bedminster of the 2022 PGA Championship, an insider says.
A Houston, Texas newspaper told Ted Cruz: Resign now. Your lies cost lives.
A top aide for Ted Cruz resigned following the violence at the Capitol.
"RESIGN HAWLEY" was painted on a St. Louis street during a protest against Sen. Josh Hawley.
Illinois GOP Rep. Mary Miller apologized for her Hitler remark at the pro-Trump rally: Calls remain for her to resign.
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, the largest paper in Wisconsin, is calling for Ron Johnson's expulsion, along with two other members of the state’s Congressional delegation.
Several Democratic leaders in North Carolina are calling for an investigation into U.S. Congressman Madison Cawthorn, claiming that he had a hand in inciting the violence that occurred during the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol.
A Democratic senator is calling for his colleagues Josh Hawley, Ted Cruz, Ron Johnson and possibly others to be kicked off relevant committees and potentially expelled from the Senate.
Harvard and Yale Law school alumni think Josh Hawley and Ted Cruz should be disbarred.
Ted Cruz is buried in hometown backlash as another Texas newspaper calls for his expulsion.
CNN's Jake Tapper burned Kevin McCarthy for his pathetic response to Trump's impeachment.
The problem with the GOP pushback against Trump's impeachment. If Republicans are sincere about their newfound interest in "unity," shouldn't they stand with Democrats in trying to remove Trump from office?
Texans call for Ken Paxton's resignation outside Texas AG's office. "His harmful pro-Trump speech fed a violent riot charged by white supremacists in DC, leading to the death of five people & sought to upend the 2020 presidential election."
A New Jersey lawmaker says colleagues gave Capitol “reconnaissance” tours.
Sarah Groh, Rep. Ayanna Pressley’s (D-MA) chief of staff, said when she went for the panic buttons in the congresswoman’s office, which she had used before, every single one “had been torn out — the whole unit.”
Three of Rep. Paul Gosar's siblings are trying to get their brother expelled from Congress after the deadly riot at the U.S. Capitol, blaming him for helping to instigate it.
Pennsylvania Senator Mastriano spent months undermining the election results. Last week, he escalated his assault on our democracy by attending a violent insurrection. For the good of our country, he must resign.
GOP Rep. Madison Cawthorn was armed with a gun during the insurrection he helped incite.
GOP Representative and possible conspirator Lauren Boebert has been locked out of her Twitter until after the inauguration.
Representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO), who caused a scene at the Capitol this week after setting off a metal detector and refusing to turn her bag over to Capitol Police, has been arrested and summonsed at least four times over the past decade.
Suspicions build in Capitol attack as Democrats call out white supremacists in Congress.
Congresswoman bashes Republicans who refuse to go through metal detectors: 'Find another job.'
An 18-year veteran of the Houston Police Department is under federal investigation for his participation in the riot at the U.S. Capitol last week, Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo said.
Trump can't accept donations on Stripe after the company cuts him loose.
Forbes magazine has declared, "Let it be known to the business world: Hire any of Trump's fellow fabulists, and Forbes will assume that everything your company or firm talks about is a lie. We're going to scrutinize...with the same skepticism we'd approach a Trump tweet."
A Conservative site suddenly retracted an op-ed denying there was a 'riot' at the Capitol.
A facial recognition company calls out Matt Gaetz for Antifa lies and demands an apology.
Put Cruz and Hawley should be put on the no-fly list, says the Homeland Security Committee Chair.
Father of the officer killed in the MAGA riot hopes his son’s death ends ‘lunacy’ in the U.S.
New video emerges that shows the Trump family celebrating before the rioters besieged the Capitol Building.
The DC Attorney General intends to prosecute people for inciting a riot — even if they’re elected officials.
Talk-radio owner threatens to fire hosts who dispute the election results because repeating the sewer lies of a Nazi sympathizing, bigoted, insurrection riot starting, malignant sociopath whose cult murdered a policeman isn't a good business plan.
Fox News suffered its worst ratings in 20 years following deadly riot by Trump supporters.
Trump went 'ballistic' and 'scrambled' to figure out what to do next after having his Twitter account banned, a senior administration official said.
Defiant and angry, Trump tried to evade his Twitter ban and was immediately humiliated and shut down.
Darrell Issa: Taking away Trump's Twitter is like 'kicking him when he's down.' (Too damn bad.)
YouTube suspended President Trump's channel for at least one week, and potentially longer, after his channel earned a strike under the platform's policies.
Snapchat permanently suspended Trump, saying it is 'in the interest of public safety' after Capitol riots.
Google suspended the Parler social networking app from Play Store; Apple gave a 24-hour warning.
A police union joined Parler — just as the Twitter competitor for extremists got deplatformed.
Devin Nunes (on Fox News) claims that Republicans can’t communicate (or plan future coups?) without Parler.
Republicans in Congress are demanding 'unity' after 147 of them voted to try to overturn the election, propping up the very lies that led a mob of President Donald Trump's supporters to violently attack the U.S. Capitol.
Many Republican politicians, White House staff members, Trump’s lawyers and children, and other enablers are busily trying to launder their reputations in the wake of the attempted coup, says Tim O'Brien.
'Five people are dead': Rep. Raskin called out Jim Jordan for still pushing election conspiracy theories.
Trump released a video condemning violence after his second impeachment and whined about being cut off from social media.
Amy Klobuchar will head the probe of the Capitol riot.
Trump’s effort to overturn the election should be investigated like 9/11.
Fired Trump official’s ominous warning: ‘There will be more bloodshed’ before the inauguration.
The FBI has sent a memo to law enforcement agencies across the country warning of possible armed protests at all 50 state capitol buildings starting Jan. 16.
House Democrats have expressed ‘grave concerns’ about safety, ‘violent threats’ to democracy. House committee chairs said “more must be done” to preempt potential attacks by “domestic violent extremists” ahead of Joe Biden’s inauguration.
The 147 Republicans who still voted to overturn the election after the Capitol siege.
House Democrats are pushing to have President Trump impeached. But even in the unlikely event that two-thirds of senators would agree to convict Trump, there's little to stop him from continuing to ask supporters for money, campaign finance experts say.
The head of security for Biden's inauguration said he's confident in the event's safety and that it doesn't compare to the Capitol breach.
Electoral College Vote Certification:
Mitch McConnell didn’t support the Electoral College vote challenge.
Pence really researched overturning the election — and almost did it.
Trump had ‘lost it’ and was ‘pleased’ watching the riots on TV because the certification was being derailed.
In a futile gesture, the majority of House Republicans voted to reject Arizona’s Electoral College votes.
138 House Republicans stood with terrorists and voted to overturn the election.
Rudy Giuliani asked Alabama’s new senator to slow down the vote count in a shockingly stupid voicemail left with the wrong senator.
Tampa Bay Times has said Florida Senator Rick Scott has disgraced himself and embarrasses the state. Masquerading behind conscience in what was a naked attempt to steal the election.
In a one-hour phone call on Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021 with Georgia election officials, President Trump insisted he won the state and threatened vague legal consequences if the officials did not act. (Listen to the full hour-long tape in the link above or read the highlights in a news article HERE.
Georgia Run-Off:
3 million Georgians voted early in the Senate runoffs.
Trump declared the Georgia Senate races ‘illegal and invalid’ days before the vote.
David Perdue bought bank stocks after meeting financial policy making officials.
In what was likely the last rally of his presidency, Trump's pre-election rally in Georgia on the eve before the runoff was really about his election beefs instead of the Senate runoffs.
A GOP Representative warned of a ‘full-scale hot conflict’ if Republicans lose the Senate.
Georgia's governor called the riot in DC a ‘disgrace.’
***Warnock and Ossoff have won BOTH seats in the Senate, paving the way for Democrat control.
Legal Challenges:
An appeals court shot down a GOP lawsuit — before the defendant could even file a legal brief.
The Supreme Court rejected Louie Gohmert's long-shot request to expand Pence's power to the overturn election.
'Just nothing': Trump-appointed US Attorney in Georgia rebuffs president's bizarre voter fraud claims — again.
Election Misc:
Calls grow for a criminal investigation into Trump election fraud following the leaked tape to his call in Georgia.
The Arizona GOP asked followers if they're willing to die in an effort to overturn the election results.
Trump faces a criminal investigation for his call to Georgia's secretary of state.
Trump made a second call to pressure the Georgia election officials.
Pennsylvania's Lt. Governor John Fetterman said that Trump tried the same kind of illegal election interference calls there that he used in Georgia.
Ethics watchdog American Oversight has submitted requests demanding the release of records reflecting communications between Georgia state officials and the White House or Trump lawyers, including emails about the call between Brad Raffensperger and Trump.
Petition seeks removal of Fresno County school board member who was at Capitol insurrection.
A veteran GOP Senator says that Republicans may need a new party or be Trump's hostages for years.
Crazy Trump cultists are saying Italy used satellites to change votes from Trump to Biden. You can't make this stuff up. Fact check: Claims of electoral fraud in Rome, dubbed 'ItalyGate,' are baseless.
Fox News' Lou Dobbs wonders why it’s been so hard ‘finding actual proof’ of election fraud.
Fox News’ Bret Baier confronted new Senator Josh Hawley (who is clearly out to make a name for himself) about his plan to contest the electoral college votes on January 6: It’s your responsibility to tell people Trump will not be president.
Republicans are in disarray over Trump’s effort to overturn the 2020 election.
A Trump supporter called C-SPAN in tears to ask if her president had lied to her. Listen to a self-described Trump supporter rethink her support in real time.
The Washington DC mayor asked the White House for an emergency declaration funding for inauguration security. (We will see how that goes...)
President-elect Joe Biden said he was "not afraid" of taking his oath of office on the West Front of the US Capitol, after supporters of President Trump breached the building in a deadly riot last week.
Vice President Mike Pence is planning to attend the inauguration of Joe Biden but is waiting on an invitation, a source close to him confirmed.
Wacko QAnon Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene says she will file articles of impeachment against Joe Biden on his first day as president.
Security officials face the possibility of a threat from the inside on Inauguration Day.
Trump Misc. News:
Are we going to trump up a war with Iran to keep Trump in power? That seemed to be the plan:
Iran filed a ‘Red Notice’ with Interpol to arrest Donald Trump for assassinating Qassem Soleimani.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told House Democrats that she has gotten assurances there are safeguards in place in the event President Trump wants to launch a nuclear weapon, according to multiple sources.
Patriots coach Bill Belichick says he won’t accept Trump’s offer of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
King of debt: Trump promised to slash the deficit — instead it skyrocketed.
Trump again illegally used nonprofit money.
Current senior Trump administration officials say we were wrong, he’s a “fascist.”
Trump won't listen to his kids about halting violence because 'he has no respect for them,’ former lawyer Michael Cohen says.
A disturbing report finds concerns that some members of the Secret Service are 'politically aligned' with Trump.
Trump Family:
Jared and Ivanka's sister-in-law expressed frustration: ‘Inciting violence is anti-American.’
Despite everything that has happened and her father facing a second impeachment, Ivanka Trump still seems to believe that she will be the first woman president.
Melania Trump issued a statement about the riot, naming those who died (she named the rioters before the fallen police). CNN's fact checker extraordinaire, Daniel Dale, also noted that she copied parts of the speech from her own RNC speech last summer.
Don Jr.’s most absurd argument: ‘The attack was pre-planned, therefore Trump couldn’t have incited it.
The DC attorney general's office has notified President Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., that it would like to interview him as part of its investigation into misuse of his father's inaugural funds, a spokesperson with the office said.
Secret Service pays high rent for apartment near Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner's home for toilets and office space for agents since they are banned from using any of their 6 bathrooms.
Trump Circus:
The former law partners of pro-Trump lawyer L. Lin Wood say that he claimed he "might actually be" the second coming of Jesus Christ in a recorded conversation.
Republican Louie Gohmert’s law license could be at risk after his election shenanigans for Trump.
The city of Detroit has officially filed its motion seeking sanctions, including disbarment, for Sidney Powell and Lin Wood.
Is Rudy Giuliani quietly scrubbing top Trump officials and supporters from his Twitter following list?
The Treasury Department announced sanctions tied to Giuliani’s Biden attacks.
New York State Bar Association moves to oust Rudy Giuliani. The group is a private professional association and revoking Giuliani's membership does not mean he would lose his law license.
A reporter interrupted Lindsey Graham’s praise of Trump to remind him that yesterday “he helped incite a mobbed riot.”
New videos have emerged tying Arizona Republican Rep. Andy Biggs to the 'Stop the Steal' movement.
Police slapped down newbie Senator from Missouri (one of the ones who called for the halting of the electoral ballot certification) Josh Hawley's claim Antifa terrorized his family.
Bill Barr, Trump's former Attorney General who "resigned" (Yea, right) after he pronounced there was no election fraud and no cause to investigate Hunter Biden, says that Trump’s behavior is a “betrayal of his office and supporters.” (And he just now realized this?)
A former teacher at Sarah Sanders high school ripped her understanding of the First Amendment and says she didn’t learn anything in Sunday school either.
Donald Trump is stiffing his lawyer Rudy Giuliani on legal fees.
Pence and Trump finally spoke Monday after the post-riot estrangement.
Trump supporters:
Die-hard Trump supporters still refuse to believe Trump lost and Biden won.
Trump supporters vowed 'swift vengeance' on Republicans who don't support the president's coup.
The leader of the Proud Boys was arrested ahead of pro-Trump protest in DC on the 6th.
Arrest of the Proud Boys’ Miami-based leader was linked to Capitol insurrection, feds say.
Jacob Angeli Chansley has been seen at pro-Trump rallies. The horned Capitol rioter is ‘failed actor and QAnon conspiracy theorist who lives with his mother.’
'Got a mirror handy?' Twitter scorched Lindsey Graham's call to identify and prosecute the DC rioters.
Video shows a newly elected West Virginian lawmaker among the mob that stormed the U.S. Capitol. He was livestreaming through the whole thing. (Idiot!)
A law professor, who questioned Kamala Harris' citizenship, was pushed out of his job after speaking at Trump's Capitol rally.
A marketing firm terminated an employee who wore a company badge while storming the US Capitol. (Idiot!)
A CEO was arrested for breaching the US Capitol during the Trump-fueled insurrection.
A Trump terrorist pictured at Pelosi’s desk has been identified.
The man in 'Camp Auschwitz' sweatshirt during the Capitol riot has been identified.
Madera County man describes being part of Capitol siege.
Larry Rendall Brock Jr. has been arrested in connection with the riot at the U.S. Capitol. Brock is the retired Air Force lieutenant colonel who was seen wearing a combat helmet and body armor and holding zip-tie handcuffs.
A Boise man who stormed the U.S. Capitol building wants to apologize (Trying to save his behind, no doubt, from jail): 'I got caught up in the moment.'
A former Navy SEAL bragged about taking part in Capitol riots in a now-deleted Facebook video.
Alt-right figure Baked Alaska broke the terms of his release to go to Washington DC. Scottsdale prosecutors now want to throw him in jail.
The Harvard Institute Of Politics removed MAGA nut Elise Stefanik from her advisory role after the riot.
Jacob Chansley (AKA Jake Angeli or QAnon Shaman), the rioter in horns and painted face who lives with his mother, will be fed organic food, in line with his strict shaman diet, while in federal custody. "We will abide by the judge's order," U.S. Marshal David Gonzales said.
A Florida firefighter was arrested after a photo showed him pointing at a placard for Speaker Pelosi in US Capitol Building.
A Philadelphia police detective is subject of an Internal Affairs investigation after allegedly attending the D.C. rally.
An Auburn, Alabama man is in Federal custody following the U.S. Capitol riot.
A rioter who stormed the US Capitol last week wearing a sweatshirt emblazoned with the phrase "Camp Auschwitz" has been arrested in Virginia, according to a law enforcement official.
A Utica business owner was amongst rioters at the Capitol building last week and was arrested during the siege. In an interview, he complained that the police “treated us like animals” and kept him him in custody for 24 hours. “They took all our phones." (Boo hoo hoo...)
An American Airlines pilot told obnoxious Trump supporters that he'd divert the plane and strand them in Kansas if they don't 'behave.'
'Get off the plane': Passengers shout down Trump rioters as they're thrown off flight home.
Trump rioter caught on video sobbing 'they called me a terrorist' after being put on 'no-fly' list.
A Trump supporter who was arrested in the Capitol siege said he asked God for permission and ‘He didn’t say no.’
A ‘Stop the Steal’ organizer is in hiding after denying blame for the riot.
A Trump supporter was nabbed by the FBI after a Facebook boast about breaking down Pelosi's office door.
Prosecutors are looking to modify Kyle Rittenhouse's bail conditions after the Kenosha shooter flashed white power signs and was spotted out with Proud Boys.
The ‘My Pillow Guy’ said not to worry, Trump will stay president, and ‘a lot of evidence will come out this week.’ He also blames the riot on Antifa.
The House minority leader, Kevin McCarthy, stuck by President Trump even after a mob stormed the Capitol, killing a police officer. It’s not only a morally bankrupt position, but a politically perilous one.
The far-right is already scheming for a post-riot sequel.
The Right is planning more armed coup attempts, according to the FBI.
Trump Misc:
A new report claims that N.Y. prosecutors only need one "final piece" in their Trump investigation.
Deutsche Bank agreed to pay more than $100 million to avoid bribery charge in a deferred prosecution agreement with federal prosecutors working on a case against Trump. “Deutsche Bank, which has been Mr. Trump’s primary lender for two decades, has decided not to do business with Mr. Trump or his company in the future.”
Signature bank also closed out Trump's personal accounts and called for his resignation.
A third bank cuts ties with Trump after the Capitol riot.
More bad news for loser Trump: His European golf courses have lost approximately $90 million.
Corporate America has cut Trump off in his final days: Where will he turn now?
Trump's hotel wants to cash in on Biden's inauguration, but the bookings aren't rolling in. A reservation specialist said there were "plenty" of rooms available.
Trump's hotel wants to cash in on Biden's inauguration, but the bookings aren't rolling in. A reservation specialist said there were "plenty" of rooms available.
US Fish and Wildlife opened an investigation after a Florida manatee was found defaced with 'Trump' carved into its back.
Trump is privately discussing his post-presidency plans as he publicly insists he won, an article says.
Trying to change the subject: Trump expected to issue more pardons
Trump’s pardon problem: Advisors warn of admission of guilt in Capitol riot.
Trump’s new criminal problem: The president could face charges for inciting the Capitol riot—and maybe even for inciting the murder of a Capitol Police Officer.
CNN’s Jim Acosta reported that a GOP source close to Trump told him “He believes the president is out of his mind.”
Rep. Joaquin Castro will be introducing legislation to ban Trump's name from being used for federal property.
"The Trump-led Republican Party suffered historic losses on the federal level in a short four-year span that has rarely, if ever, been duplicated in modern American history."
Trump exploded at Nixon comparisons as he prepares to leave office.
A senior Trump administration official said, “The legacy of the Trump administration is going to be that the president sparked an insurrection and people died because he tried his best to not abide by the Constitution... Nothing else is even going to be a side note.”
A news report from Scotland is touching off rampant speculation on Twitter that Donald Trump may flee the country before President-elect Joe Biden is inaugurated and he becomes subject to arrest for the many crimes he’s been accused of committing.
CREATIVITY:
Randy Rainbow is b-a-c-k with an encore / updated version of SEDITION (post-Capitol riot):
Here is Puddles Pity Party with a remake of CHANGES by David Bowie:
Here are a few more political ads:
MAIL:
Linda from Castro Valley, California, chimed in with a note:
"Our latest news is we’re in quarantine for 10 days," she said. "One of our sons may have been exposed and then he came over here. We we’re outside with masks, but you never know. Everyone feels fine so far, though. It's just a self-quarantine. No armed guards out in front. We don’t really have anywhere to go anyhow. Everyone feels fine."
Linda from Castro Valley, California, chimed in with a note:
"Our latest news is we’re in quarantine for 10 days," she said. "One of our sons may have been exposed and then he came over here. We we’re outside with masks, but you never know. Everyone feels fine so far, though. It's just a self-quarantine. No armed guards out in front. We don’t really have anywhere to go anyhow. Everyone feels fine."
Several days later, Linda sent this quick follow-up:
"Well, our son just got a negative COVID test result, so we probably didn’t get infected (from him, anyway) either," she said. "But it’s a warning to keep our guard up, wear a mask, and stay 6 feet from others!"
My CNA friend Kim in Wisconsin sent a note:
"I worked the last couple of days," she said. "It was not bad though. New Year's Eve was quiet. I have been training a new girl who seems to be picking up quick. She wants to be a flight nurse, so I thought if we were low census tomorrow, we could hang out in the ER to show her what it is like.
"I am also getting the COVID vaccine Monday. I am excited and nervous. Has anyone that you know of had a bad reaction to it? So far, here it has been okay, just people complaining of a very sore arm. "Hawaii is getting closer. Everyday things change, so we will make a final decision by the end of the month if we want to put the trip off until the fall or spring? It is all paid for, so it doesn't bother me either way."
My last Christmas card for 2020 (or my very first, super-early card for 2021) came on January 2nd from my former co-worker Michele and her husband Joe (as seen in the lower left corner).
No. Hold the phone...on Tuesday, Jan. 5, I got another card from Kevin in Massachusetts.
Eric in Costa Mesa sent more details of his trip to Arizona before Thanksgiving and a photo:
"We went the Coachella way," he said. "The Cabazon Dinosaurs were painted red and green for the holidays, but somehow they looked different than when you sent the pictures from your trip. Hadley's stand has been demolished and in a new building next to a tacky casino. There must have been 10 billboards for pot stores in Palm Springs in this one area.
"From then on the scenery didn't change much until you get close to Phoenix. We went on the 10, which goes all the way to the east coast. Well, the 10 is filled with big rig trucks. The speed limit is 75, so everyone goes 80-85, including the trucks. You can't go 70- they ride up on you, honk or turn on their lights ( it's 2 lanes each side). It was stressful since the 1first time driving there and I was so tired from sitting. We didn't stop much since it seemed like Tucson was so far away. It was 10+ hours!
"We stopped in at Blythe for lunch. I found this beautiful vintage coffee shop still open ( only at night, the inside has been mostly modernized).
"Often you read that Phoenix and Tucson are the fastest growing cities in the US. I's true. Miles of new tract homes, big ones, painted in browns and tans, without solar panels! They have almost no water., How do they get all the electricity? ( Some of it comes from SoCal as it is.) Strip malls everywhere, and fast food. It is a fast food, burgers, steak and BBQ food styles- maybe other parts are different.
"They have no marine layer, so it's brighter than here, dry air and higher elevation. Still it was a great trip, glad to take my parents somewhere different before Dad is too bad off. I wanted to stay at Hotel McCoy, a fun 1950's place with free bikes, ping pong, and tamale room service! They sold out for the week. So. I found a Day's Inn nearby. It was not special but it was safe ( There was one drug deal in front of our room as we got home the next night. It was sad; three college kids and a 14-15 yr old selling - he rode his bicycle, I guess that proves it safe, even the drug crowd wants to do their business there).
"The next day was the Southwest Desert Museum.
"Sorry for going on so long. I haven't been anywhere in so long. ( I was going to Bakersfield and Pismo Beach in March, right when everything closed.)
"Hopefully you can go to the Desert Museum sometime. It's way off in the hills, the Saguaro cactus monument right near it. That type of cactus is literally everywhere in the area. There was a small theme park near there that closed due to COVID. It was a western town where dozens of western movies and TV shows were filmed.
The Southwest Desert Museum is amazing. There are a few indoor areas, including lizard and insect areas (with a black widow exhibit that was just too much-- big black ones with lots of egg sacs... Shudder!) It's all tied together in that the tiny amount of rain keeps all these varied things alive. Floppy-eared, cottontail rabbits were wandering around. The snack bar was a bit of a joke ( hamburgers or ice cream?). For some reason, there were no lids or straws for your beverage. I guess to save plastic?
Again, I got sunburned and exhausted ( even with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses) due to the Arizona sun and lack of moisture."
My friend Vye shared an update on her family members who got COVID 19.
"My cousin is officially now COVID-free," she said. "She's still really sick, but is going to be fine, thank goodness. Her husband is on steroids to treat his breathing and is now improving slowly. But their uncle (my uncle's brother) passed away from COVID on Sunday. It's an unbelievably unfair way to go, when your loved ones can't even sit by your side and hold your hand."My friend Angel in Colombia sent me a short video. I think he was working one of his many jobs...or perhaps just fixing up his apartment?
I asked him what he was doing and the next day he sent this note:"I was working as an assistant in construction, but in the final part of the apartments," he said. "That means in painting and details, to deliver (restore?) the apartments again. I no longer work, because in Colombia we are in a curfew for 5 days and they haven't called me to work anymore."
My nursing school classmate, Mark, who lives and works in Sonora, California, sent me a note:
"I had my second shot on Friday and had an excellent immune response the following day," he said of the COVID vaccine. "I felt like crap. Only I and another RN had the lousy side effects that I know of so far."
ME:
I started off the new year constipated. Swell... There's nothing like starting off a new year when you are still full of last year's sh*t. (Excuse my French...) I spent New Year's Day (much like I had New Year's Eve and the day before) on my computer. I felt bad, as Erich was still here visiting. But up through New Year's Eve, I was working on my last blog---which came out New Year's Day. On New Year's Day, I was busy working on my annual Fake Jan Day video. Fake Jan Day is January 2--so I had to get it done as well. Eventually, I did finish the video and Erich and I were able to finish watching Stephen King's THE OUTSIDER, which Erich had really been chomping at the bit to finish since we had already seen the first few episodes of the 10-episode series.
We ordered Mexican food near the house for dinner that night. The state have banned indoor and outdoor dining due to the insane number of COVID cases. Although several places were still operating in defiance, I was pleased to see this little behaving responsibly. The entrance was barricaded to keep people out.
On the 4th, I had a cardiac stress test because of my complains of skipped heartbeats or PVC (premature ventricular contractions). I had been wearing a monitor for a week that captured some, but after my first week of IVIG (which was after the monitor was off), they seemed to intensify. Looking at this photo, although I can't read cardiac rhythms, it is evident there is something funky going on. And this picture was taken before the test even began. (I had not yet been injected with the medication to make my heart "stress".) I return on the 22nd to speak with the doctor.
And suddenly, before we knew it, we were at our first stop--Orange Cove.
Orange Cove looked to be just one long, main street with a whole lot of nothing, really. According to the city's website, Orange Cove exists due to all of the citrus tree in the area and the packing sheds for them. Because of all of the oranges and lemons in the area, it is a "destination" stop on the Blossom Trail. Hmm. The town has also apparently only had a police force of any kind since 2009. Jinkies!
There were several restaurants (all of which featured Mexican food) and the town boasted a Family Dollar, a Dollar General and a Dollar Tree. This shop we passed that made me laugh out loud the most was this one with it's stylish mannequins (with mannequin goosebumps modeling skimpy outfits in January) out on the street. I know times are tough in the time of COVID, but...
An old brick building we passed had a faded painted sign on its side for Orange Cove Hardware. There was a Subway (and I think I saw a Burger King). Many of the businesses were taking a cue from the Orange County area of California and labeling themselves the O.C.
With Erich navigating, from the O.C. (Orange Cove), we suddenly found ourselves traveling through Orosi. Glamorous... The community was founded in 1888 by Daniel R. Shafer, according to the page on Wikipedia. It was named 'oro', or gold, for the golden poppies covering the nearby fields (which are probably long gone...). The town apparently has a sizeable, yet small Filipino population in it and there apparently is a "Little Manilia" section of town that we did not see.
Just a little ways beyond Orosi, we passed through a tiny town I had never even heard of before called Sultana. Sultana, according to the 2010 census, has about 775 people in it. That's it.
Just beyond Sultana, we crossed the city limits into Dinuba.
As we headed into downtown Dinuba, I passed this Wimpy's hamburger stand. Oooo... I know I'll be back some day (after the pandemic) for a visit. Way back when I was working for The Fresno Bee, I had written a piece on the original Wimpy's in Tulare. Since that time, two more Wimpy's have popped up -- one in Visalia and this one in Dinuba. I learned about the new locations when I did a blog post when I revisited the Tulare location back in 2019. I'll definitely have to return to this one and check it out.
As we got closer to downtown Dinuba, I could see that it had some charm.
It was a lot bigger than I would have thought. I know very little about the town. I would have thought the place existed simply as an agricultural town, but I was sort of surprised by its size. Ruiz Foods, makers of Mexican frozen foods (burritos, TV dinners, etc.) is located in the town and is a large employer (1,500 people), but that would not account for the town's size for the age of its downtown.
Our final destination was a repeat stop. When we had visited Reedley before, it had been on a Sunday and the town was pretty much shut down.
We came back to give the town another look, hopefully with people out and about.
Reedley is another surprisingly good-sized small town. Largely agricultural-based, the town adopted the title of "The World's Fruit Basket" for itself.
It was pretty crowded, but I finally found parking in front of two flower shops (completely separate shops but right next door to each other) on the main drag. While most of the buildings were dull, flat spaces with an overhang, the buildings on the corners held the most interest.
This particular building, with it's run down and vacant second floor, really interested me.
Most of the people we saw wore masks, although we saw plenty who were maskless. And then there were some, like this woman, who were wearing masks...but had them pulled down below their nose and (occasionally) their mouth, too.
We spied this place. It was open and serving people outside. Hmm. We hadn't eaten all day and it was well after noon. We found an isolated table and decided to try it.
Erich had the nopalitos (cactus) omelet. I had the tri-tip one. We were served huge portions that we both finished.
After that, we headed home. I snapped a shot of the "R" (for Reedley) on a small hill on the way.
Erich had gifted me with a DNA kit from Ancestry.com. He'd gotten one for himself as well. That night, after our trip, we spent time spitting into vials and sent them off.
On Saturday morning, Erich made the most delicious pancakes for breakfast with blueberries and raspberries in them.
He put the syrup (real syrup---not some chemically created kind) in a pot to warm and added crushed raspberries and blueberries to that as well. OMG! It was soooooo yummy.
I had a grocery pick up that day. It was nothing exciting, except... Since the start of the pandemic, I have been trying and trying and trying to score some Lysol spray. Finally, 10+ months later, I got a bottle. Hooray!
Erich was planning on going home on Sunday (although he ended up staying until Monday). So, on Saturday night, we made special lychee gimlets for one last night of cocktails.
The flower bulb (amaryllis?) my former co-worker Melaney had given me is in full bloom and looking fab.
But I don't know what to do with it afterwards. Do I remove the wax somehow and plant it or do I just throw it away...or will if come back on its own next year?
Stay SAFE! Stay HEALTHY! Get VACCINATED (if it is your group's turn)! Stay ALIVE!
CHEERS!
Last Saturday, I finally heard about my request for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration. I was denied. The appeal process has started, but that will take months as well. I am really nervous as to how I'll afford to live once my state disability (which runs out March 26) ends. I do have long-term disability insurance from work--thank goodness--but that is a lot less (and only comes once a month) than what I was getting from the state.
Although Nedra, who had come to visit me at Christmas, had gone home on the 27th, Erich, who had also come to visit for the holiday, was still at my place. So, last Friday, we decided to do a little local field trip again.
Since the outbreak is so bad here and everything is locked up tight (or is supposed to be), our chosen destinations were more small towns in the area we'd never been to before. We wouldn't even be stopping in most of them. We just wanted to drive through and see them.
From my house in Clovis, we took the back way (down Shaw to Academy) to the 180. We passed Centerville and Minkler and the old school house restaurant that we had visited previously.
The 180 became a more rural, twisty road as we headed on towards the mountains. Erich spotted our turnoff and we drove through some nice foothills and valleys.
We headed back to its downtown section, which is overlooked by a pair of water towers, and decided to poke around a bit.
You won't believe this, but I was waiting for my IVIG shipment all day. The company said it was coming that day and I was due to start my treatments the next day. I had things i needed to do that day, but I waited. I had been checking the porch throughout the day to see if it has arrived and I had somehow missed it. I tried to check again late in the day and... my deadbolt broke. Ha! So, I can't use my front door. It's was too late to get it fixed. I texted my nurse to let me know when she arrived the next morning. I have to go around and let her in through the gate via the back door. Too funny but somehow par for the course. The box with the IVIG did show up eventually and I had to haul that around through the back. Ugh. It left me huffing and puffing.
Health-wise, I don't know... I am supposed to start feeling the IVIG working after my third series of infusions (which have started). However, if anything, I feel WORSE. It's actually harder to get around, I think. To top it off, I have been having dizzy spells and have had a quasi-headache since just before the new year or so---and that is getting worse, too. I will talk to the neurologist about that when I see him next (26th) as well as my cardiologist (I go on the 22nd). My tail bone is inexplicably sore as well. Instead of healing and getting better, honestly, I feel like I am limping along to the final finish line. We will see what happens after the IVIG. I'm not giving up...I know no one lives forever, but I am only 55 and I just feel like I am falling further and further behind in my attempts to recover. I feel like the main character in a bad, 70's TV Movie of the Week who has some rare disease. Will there be a happy ending or will it end in tragedy? Stick around after these commercials and find out.
I had to get poked three times to get my IVIG going the first day. That's always sooooo much fun. (NOT!)
The infusions just mess me up. I am tired all of the time as it is with my disease...but the IVIG just leaves me so weak for some reason (and it makes me have to pee a LOT as well. Ha!). I hope it is working, but as I am in the midst of my third series of infusions (and the third set is supposed to be the charm to tell if it is working or not), I can honestly say I feel no change for the better... But I have to continue it all. What choice do I have?
When the blog returns in two weeks, I should only have virus stuff to deal with and (hopefully) just a little Trump news. Let's get this ass-clown GONE!
CHEERS!
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