U.S. Health Officials Warn Thanksgiving Travelers They Could Seed a Surge on Top of a Surge

    

   

        Health officials have urged Thanksgiving travelers to quarantine themselves after holiday travel, to help stop the rapid rise in COVID cases. Despite the forecast ten percent drop in travel by AAA, the decrease is significantly smaller compared to the 47.8 million people who ended up traveling. These numbers are cause for concern due to the increase in recent weeks of the number of COVID cases by twelve percent, especially in California where over 100, 000 cases have been reported in a single week. Holiday travelers can further increase these numbers due to the asymptomatic transmission, as COVID symptoms do not manifest until after two weeks of the contraction. However, many have disregarded these precautions due to the news of expected vaccinations for COVID. In fact, a spike in the number of travel bookings for Thanksgiving occurred days after it was revealed that the Pfizer vaccine, still in testing, was around 90 percent effective. On the other hand, the steps taken by many to cancel plans of travel during the holidays has definitely helped prevent a surge in COVID cases.

        Personally, I believe that non-essential traveling during the holidays, despite news of potential vaccines, is dangerous especially through crowded airports. I agree with health officials that people should be aware of the risk of exposure to COVID if they travel, and should refrain from doing extra activities that might infect others. In addition, throughout the holidays people should still follow the precautions of mask-wearing and social distancing until a vaccine is officially approved by the FDA. 

 

Questions:

1)What are your thoughts on traveling during the holidays in this pandemic?

2)What would you say to those who had to cancel plans to spend the holidays with their family?

3)What do you think of the people who undertook non-essential travel in spite of health officials’ warnings?

4)Were your plans for Thanksgiving canceled?

 

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/11/29/world/covid-19-coronavirus?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage

https://www.nytimes.com/live/2020/11/24/world/covid-19-coronavirus?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage

Completed Wisconsin recount confirms Biden’s win over Trump

 AP News

CNN 

Sunday (11/29): Wisconsin's Dane County completed a ballot recount of the state's presidential votes, as requested by President Trump - a negligible 45 votes were gained for Trump due to the recount. With an earlier recount in Milwaukee County granting 132 votes to President-elect Joe Biden, a net 87 votes were added to Biden's favor in the state, providing a fairly trivial reassurance of Biden's victory. 

    However, the POTUS and his legal team continue to deny Biden's victory, claiming voter fraud in the form of illegal ballots despite the failure of such claims to hold ground in other states such as Arizona and Georgia. His attorneys filed complaints citing alleged widespread fraud, and Trump himself continued his antidemocratic rhetoric in a recent interview on Fox News with conspiratorial rantings of a "well-coordinated attack" on the election proceedings. 

Although the election results are not yet officially certified in Wisconsin by the bipartisan Wisconsin Election Commission, it's clear among experts and the official count that there is no evidence of widespread fraud - why then, is President Trump attempting to overturn the vote?

    Trump is not a politician - he was and is a businessman. From his stay in the Oval Office, it is clear from his conduct he holds no respect to the traditions of the office. He does not place particular importance on the smooth transition of power, but instead seeks to get ahead by riding his populist wave. I don't believe that Trump's approach is a direct threat to our democracy, as our nation has survived far worse - the polarization of the election of 1800, the sedition acts, even the Civil War: we have always been disjointed on political issues. 

However, I think that increasing American polarization itself and the popular support for Trump's rhetoric is a byproduct of an already failing democratic system. The historic two-party system resulting from our first past the post (FPP) system of voting, for one, dissatisfies a majority of people every election cycle because of FPP's tendency to drift towards two broad parties. I think steps should be made to move towards instant-runoff voting (IRV) in order to encourage multiple parties in American democracy, which would offset the polarization between two clearly defined sides and allow trust to be rebuilt in our systems once again because more representative options are available.

San Mateo County and Others Join Purple Tier

 

The Sacramento Bee

San Mateo County News

    Due to a rapid increase in coronavirus cases from October to November, San Mateo, Calaveras, San Francisco, Plumas and Modoc counties moved into the purple tier, the most restrictive coronavirus regulation tier, on Nov. 29. Marin County is now the only Bay Area county that is below the purple tier as they are currently one tier below, in red. 

    Purple-tier counties are required to shut down non-essential indoor businesses such as indoor-only restaurants, places of worship, gyms, movie theaters, zoos, aquariums and museums. Furthermore, all retail stores will only allow 25% capacity and gatherings can only happen outside with no more than three different households together, still following social distancing protocols.

    San Mateo County and San Francisco County will also have to comply with Gov. Newsom’s 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew starting Nov. 30 at 10 p.m. and potentially ending on Dec. 21. This means that residents are only allowed to leave their houses between these times for essential activities or jobs.

    It’s hard to see that coronavirus cases are rising again and I think the movement into the purple tier is very justified but I’m not quite clear on how the curfew will help. I understand it’s to try to help limit exposure, but I don’t think many people are going out and risking exposure between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. I’m not sure how effective it’s going to be and if it’s really necessary.

Discussion Questions:

1. What do you think about the curfew?

2. Which restrictions do you think will be the most or least effective and why?

3. Do you think San Mateo County is handling the coronavirus the best it can? What can it do better?

Diversity in Biden's Cabinet

 

   Even though the presidential transition process isn't going smoothly as possible, President-elect Biden is preparing for his administration as inauguration day approaches. Biden has already selected several nominees and more are coming. The president-elect is planning to nominated Janet Yellen as Treasury secretary, who if nominated would be the first woman to hold the treasury position. Alejandro Mayorkas, who if nominated would be the first Latino immigrant to be the leader of the Department of Homeland Security. Avril Haines, who if nominated would be the first woman to direct National Intelligence. And finally, John Kerry, who would assist Biden tackle climate change. Some of them might be familiar faces: Mayorkas previously served as deputy secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, Haines previously served as a top CIA official and security adviser during the Obama administration, Janet Yellen was recruited to become an economist with the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, and John Kerry helped negotiate the Paris climate accord in 2015. These nominees are expected to be nominated into these positions, and Biden is selecting more for his Cabinet. 

   Since it was just Thanksgiving and we've learned much about Native Americans, I also want to include that a Native American has a chance of being selected for Biden's Cabinet. Representative Deb Haaland, a New Mexico Democrat and is a member of Laguna Pueblo, has a chance of becoming the secretary of interior. Native Americans have been urging Biden to pick her and if he does, it would be a historical moment for the Native Americans.

   Meanwhile, Trump is questioning Biden forming a Cabinet and claiming that the election is still not yet over in a tweet.

   Personally, I like what Biden is doing and I think diversity is always good to cover a wider range of perspectives and ideas, more representation is especially important as these are powerful positions that may have direct influence over our lives. Overall these nominees seem experienced to me and I think they will fit into their positions nicely. Even though these are just a few first picks and many more will be selected, Biden's cabinet is looking very solid and reliable, I will have high expectations for his future picks.

1. What are your first thoughts on Biden's picks? 

2. Is a diverse cabinet good? What are some pros and cons(if any con)?

3. Do the nominees seem qualified for their position? Expectation on future picks?

NYT article

AP article

The NFL’s Thanksgiving Weekend Has Become a Covid Crisis

Washington Post Article Link: 

        Since the beginning of the pandemic back in the Spring, major adjustments across all industries and professions have had to be made. For sports, the Covid-19 pandemic initially led to cancellation all across the board: from little league, high school, collegiate, and all the way to the professional level, teams and players across the U.S. and world had their seasons called off entirely. However, with increasing knowledge of the virus and likewise how to prevent its spread, leagues began to re-start their seasons with major changes, one of the most apparent being the lack of fans. Specifically, efforts such as elevated safety procedures, testing protocols, and strict protective equipment requirements have allowed professional athletes to get back to work, unfortunately however, not without major risk and consequence. These past few weeks in the U.S. have been absolutely devastating in terms of the increase in Covid-19 spread, and this increase is reflected clearly in the NFL, which in September averaged about six cases a week and now averages around 54. A highly anticipated Thanksgiving game scheduled for this past Thursday between the Steelers and Ravens got cancelled due to 20 players on the Ravens alone being placed on Covid-19 reserve list (they either have it or have been in contact with someone who has). Despite cases being identified, the league did not have a single cancellation or schedule change due to the virus for its entire first month after resuming, and we can now see how harmful that has been. 

        With the Steelers vs. Ravens game first being postponed to Sunday and then Tuesday, I believe that it is a ridiculously short amount of time to delay a game where so many players risk spreading the virus to others, and who let alone may not be in the condition to play. Earlier outbreaks such as when eight players on the Titans tested positive in a week should have been wake up calls, especially in terms of rescheduling games with a long enough time in between the original and new date to ensure that players and staff members can isolate for the timeline established, and then be tested to ensure that they can't still spread the virus and are okay themselves. The reluctance to take appropriate action in the face of risk such as Covid-19 exposure highlights that despite the efforts being made to ensure safety, that there is still business to be done and money to be made, and that requires games to happen. I think therefore that there is too much pressure from league leaders to proceed with games that should be cancelled in actuality. This begs the question then of whether or not it is reasonable to resume sports, especially a contact sport with no possibilities for distancing, and which has not been managing the safety of athletes and staff well. 

        - Should professional sports be sidelined for the time being? 

        - What further actions need to be taken by leagues and teams to ensure the safety of all players, coaches, trainers, medical staff, etc? 

        - What is your reaction to the NFL carrying on with their season despite outbreaks which  occur repeatedly? Are they handling their situation responsibly? 

    

The Thanksgiving Myth Gets a Deeper Look This Year

 Article link

Not to say the US has completely reconciled it's brutal past of slavery, but we are further along coming to terms with it than with how America treated Native Americans. This article reminds me of Frederick Douglass' speech "What the slave is the 4th of July?" Well, what to a Native American is Thanksgiving? (The phrase "Takesgiving" from the article was both funny and shocking.) Seeing a holiday from a different perspective is fascinating to me. Now I still plan to celebrate the 4th of July and Thanksgiving, but I also plan to spread truth to cure the myth of both holidays, both in my family and in my lessons. What's your reaction to the article? How do you come to terms with Thanksgivings or other holidays that sugarcoat the past?

Trump courts Michigan GOP leaders in bid to overturn election he lost

 

The case of Overturn in Michigan

Georgias Recount

    As the Elections ended and the final Numbers came through, Joseph Robinette Biden has been declared our president-elect and is to be inaugurated on January 20th as our 46th president. However, due to the supposed miscount of ballots in the state of Michigan, President Donald Trump is trying to overturn elections in several states including Michigan and Georgia, who did a recount of their votes to reaffirm that Biden had won. It is my strong opinion that so far, we have had 43 different presidents who have willingly given up their power to another following president, and it is my hope that we will continue this through to the end. It is also my opinion that whatever Our president decides to do about his power, he will end up leaving the presidential office and Our new president will be in. 

    The basic reasoning around why Donald Trump is doing this in the first place however lies within his defeat to the electoral college. As most of you know, the electoral college is made up of 538 electors who decide who our next president shall be. After a while, they will come up with a rough bunch of votes with the candidate with the most votes winning the election. There have been large calls to remove the electoral college, however, due to it sometimes disagreeing with the popular vote. Something to note is Faithless electors, these are people who promise to vote for someone when appointed but vote for someone else for different reasons. as of 2016, there have been around 165 cases of faithless voting, and 63 of which were during the case of Horace Greeley, where he died after election day but before the electoral college convened. This can also be seen in the election of 2016, where president trump had won the electoral vote but lost the popular vote. A big point of this as stated in the article is in the case of Donald Trump's reelection is when His lawyer, Rudy Giuliani said that Gop state legislatures in battleground states Biden won should try to use a delay in certification to appoint their own slate of electors and ignore states' popular votes for Biden.

• Do you think that Michigan can make a substantial difference in the election currently?
• What are your views on our current President's ideas on his presidency and what he is willing to do to keep his power. Do you think that he would really go through with it or is it just a stunt?

Firearm purchases have increased drastically due to recent events

 There's no question that this year 2020 has been a very hectic year. This has naturally changed how people act and behave and one of them most concerning changes is the increasing purchase of firearms. This year firearm purchases have increased to unprecedented levels. Increased firearm purchases during and after times of unrest or predictions of restrictions are not a new thing.  Such as after Obama calling for more restrictions on firearm sales in 2013 after the sandy hook shooting which increased sales by nearly 1 million in that year.  However this is one the first times in recent history where firearm sales have increased despite no new gun restrictions threatening gun ownership with the major reason of firearm sales increasing being to defend oneself with all the unrest from covid-19, and protests. Unfortunately due to the election results being relatively new there isn't new data that shows if the election has had an effect on firearms purchases, but with the president elect Joe Biden surely taking an anti-gun policy into office there will most likely be more firearms being purchased for the months to come. I for one do not own a firearm, but I have known people that do own firearms, and from discussions with them I feel as most gun owners are responsible people that understand proper firearm safety. However this kind of panic buying in amid a pandemic and unrest does have me concerned that there will be many people who buy firearms that are not responsible which may lead to many preventable gun deaths.  However I do think there is an argument to be made here that since most people are buying guns in 2020 to either defend themselves or their property in a time of unrest they are exercising their 2nd amendment in a way that it was intended which is true, but already with so much tension in the air a few more mistakes and the unrest could only multiply. 

Three million more guns: The Spring 2020 spike in firearm sales (brookings.edu)

Questions to consider 

1. How do you think Joe Biden will respond to gun control and sales when he takes office?

2. Are you concerned that with the increasing purchasing of firearms will lead to another mass shooting? 

3. Do you agree that people should be able to quickly purchase firearms in times of unrest? why or why not.

How a David and a Goliath Sprinted Ahead in the Vaccine Race

 

NYT Article

Washington Post Article

    

    As we approach the end of 2020, we get closer and closer to the distribution of a working coronavirus vaccine. Two companies, Moderna and Pfizer, have been locked in a race to produce said vaccine first. Not more than two weeks ago, Pfizer and its German partner, BioNTech, reported that their coronavirus vaccine proved to be over 90 percent effective on November 9. A week later, Moderna reported its coronavirus vaccine was 95 percent effective. Pending FDA approval, we could be seeing vaccine distribution as early as December.
    How did the race get so close? The answer lies in Operation Warp Speed. Warp Speed intended to create three kinds of vaccines, with two companies pursuing each kind of vaccine at once. Moderna and Pfizer were to pursue the mRNA vaccine. Moderna, a much smaller company, welcomed help from the government and was granted the money and assistance it needed to get the clinical trial for its vaccine up and running. Government aid also allowed it to overcome various transportation issues, speeding up the process, and allowing it to meet certain deadlines on time. Pfizer, one of the world's top vaccine producers, did not need any government assistance and tried to stay out of the political aspect of creating a vaccine. In the end, both companies were able to create a working vaccine in a matter of months, rather than in the years that it would normally take.
    I think that this is great news. With two vaccines, both over 90 percent effective, to be distributed relatively soon, we could see many more people receive a vaccine than if there was just one available. I think the competitive aspect of vaccine development was also a likely factor in how quickly they were created. With any luck, we may have a semi-normal year in 2021.

• What do you think was the biggest influence on how quickly the vaccines were developed (urgency of the issue, wanting to be first to distribute a vaccine, political influence, etc.)?
• Do you think having two teams working "against" each other to create a vaccine is more harmful or helpful? Would having one larger team be more effective?

America Is Letting the Coronavirus Rage Through Prisons

 article link : https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/21/opinion/sunday/coronavirus-prisons-jails.html?action=click&auth=login-google&module=Opinion&pgtype=Homepage

While COVID is being watched precariously in most states throughout the country, the American prison system has been neglected from safety precautions and measurements. COVID has ravaged throughout prisons across the country at exorbitant rates. During the week of Nov. 17, The Marshall Project, a non-profit for criminal justice, reported that there were 13,657 new cases in the federal and state prisons. There has been little social distancing or mask wearing in the prison facilities which are often overcrowded and overpopulated.To make matters worse, the prison system has a high percentage of inmates with pre-existing conditions, making them more susceptible to severe COVID symptoms. The numbers don’t lie, as of mid-November almost 200,000 cases of COVID have been reported in state and federal prisons. Cases among prisoners are reported 4 times as high as those of the American general population, and the death rate more than twice as high. Prison staff have also been widely affected by the spiking rates in prisons, with their infection rates being 3 times as high as the public as well. On top of this, prison facilities are often outdated and overcrowded, kinds of conditions that help COVID spread easily. Just north, across the SF Bay, San Quentin is one of the many prisons across the country that has had high rates of outbreak. In mid-July, the prison had active cases exceeding 1600. The conditions of San Quentin were called into question, with overcrowding, outdated facilities, and few medical personnel, tents had to be set up to house the sick. The lack of attention brought to contain the outbreak caused backlash and the case was eventually sent to court in October, where it was ruled that the prison had to reduce its population to half capacity. While this may have addressed one prison’s handling of COVID, other prisons have yet to change their inefficient and often inhumane methods of handling the outbreaks.

In my opinion, it is absolutely unacceptable to have such little regulation throughout the prison system. Inmates are subject to major safety concerns which could be handled in an appropriate way. The disregard given to prisoners' health is shocking to me, as they are still human beings and should be treated with respect. The outbreaks of COVID have also shed light on the conditions in our prison system which I believe are in need of change and improvement. It is especially shocking that prisons so close to us, like San Quentin, still have horrific conditions, even while being in a state that is so focused on providing quality healthcare. 

What is your reaction to the COVID situation in prisons?

How do you think the outbreaks in prisons should be handled? (ie. population cutdowns, new safety regulations, updating facilities)

The Decline in Tourism During Covid-19

 

Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, tourism, a leading engine for large city economies, has continued to fall. Recent projections have shown that New York City will not return to its pre-pandemic totals until 2021. This decline in tourism has affected major industries, as hotels, entertainment, and restaurants often rely on tourist activity as the primary source of income. As a result, thousands of Americans have become unemployed, many of which are without college degrees, adding difficulties to finding employment elsewhere. With the rising numbers, New York City has remained cautious by regulating visitor movement; many sites are limited to 1/3 of their pre-pandemic capacity. Additionally, the city has issued temporary housing for 9500 homeless in order to provide relief and prevent further crowding.

Given the current circumstances, I think New York City has taken the correct approach regarding tourism. Regulating movement is essential in order to mitigate the spread of coronavirus. In my opinion, taking strict precautions now will allow a faster recovery to pre-pandemic conditions. Opening tourism wholly, will only increase unemployment long term. Furthermore, given the results of our presidential election, New York's approach aligns with the direction our country will likely take.

Do you think New York City is taking the right approach regarding tourism? Should they be taking more or less precautions?

Do you think travel and tourism will change even after a vaccine is found?

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/16/nyregion/nyc-tourism-covid.html?action=click&module=Top%20Stories&pgtype=Homepage

The US Surpasses 11 Million Cases of Coronavirus

People lining up for coronavirus tests outside Dodgers Stadium

Article Link

The US is reaching scary-high levels of coronavirus outbreak, with more than 1 in 400 Americans having tested positive. This recent surge started in mid-October, going from 8-9 million cases in two weeks and 9-10 million cases in 10 days. Additionally, there has been an upwards trend in 48 states, with California recently joining Texas in surpassing one million cases. 4 new states set death records on Saturday: Montana, Oklahoma, Wyoming, and South Dakota. Amidst all this, I think the most uprising thing to come from the pandemic thus far is its effect on different races. Statistics show that Hispanic and Latino people have been hospitalized at 4.2x the rate of whites, American Indian people have been hospitalized at 4.1x the rate of whites, and Blacks have been hospitalized at 3.9x the rate of whites. Coronavirus has been a major factor in our lives and has affected the way we socialize greatly, ie. opting for zooms or facetimes instead of being with friends in person. However, in New York, though cases continue to rise, schools remain open.  

1. Should New York go back into lockdown and close its schools?

2. Why do you think that certain people of color have been hospitalized at such high rates as compared to white people?

3. Why has there been a recent surge in coronavirus cases?

Pandemic Speeds Americans’ Embrace of Digital Commerce

article link

    The internet is quite an amazing place that has allowed for so many innovations and connections in the modern world. The internet and computers have been the catalyst for many discoveries and it continues to alter daily life of people and social norms. This is especially true with the introduction of the COVID-19 Virus to our daily lives and changing our routines as well. If this pandemic were to happen prior to the widespread of the internet and the advancements in technology, it would not have been handled nearly as well as it is right now. The internet has allowed us to adapt our daily lives and change our way of life because of the pandemic. A great example is school right now. We are currently doing online school from our homes. Needless to say, without the internet this would be impossible. The internet has also helped in other areas. The essentials that people need can now be gotten without having any personal interaction to reduce the spread of the virus. Services like door dash and other services that deliver goods and groceries to your home without contact has served to ease the anxiety of many and reduced the spread of the virus. The modern age of technology and the internet is the saving grace for our generations in this pandemic that seems to encompass our entire world and daily life.

1. What are some ways that the internet has positively impacted you in this pandemic that you are thankful for?

2. To what extent do you think that the internet has eased the minds of the general population or benefitted the well being of others?

3. What are some other ways that the internet has helped to influence people during the pandemic?

Poll: 70 percent of Republicans don’t think the election was free and fair

 Article Link

The divide over mail in ballots seems to have been made worse by hyper-partisanship. According to a poll of 1,987 voters, 70% of Republicans felt the election was not free and fair, and of that percentage, 78% felt mail-in ballots led to widespread fraud (which is an unsubstantiated theory the president has been pushing). In contrast, 90% of Democrats believe the election was free and fair.

I found this story interesting because it exemplifies the consequences of Trump's rhetoric. For instance, the slogan, count all "legal" votes, falsely implies that illegal votes are being counted, and casts doubt on the election, which makes it damaging rhetoric to put forth. I am also troubled by the willingness of some Congress members and other Trump supporters to support false claims, though some Republican Congresspeople like Mitt Romney have condemned him. I am concerned that even after Trump is removed from office, his views will shape the Republican party.

I find hyper-partisanship and how divided the nation to be worrisome trends, which can undermine the foundations of democracy in America.

Questions:

1. How do you feel about the election?

2. How can the spread of misinformation, like false claims about the election be limited? What actions should social media platforms/individuals/public officials take? 

3.  Should Republicans continue to back Trump's claims or should they try to distance themselves from him?

4. How will a lack of faith in the election impact a transition to a Biden presidency?

5. Do you believe bipartisanship is still possible? How would it become possible?

6. How can we maintain trust in our democracy?

Trump's Refuses to Back Down From Reelection

Article Link

           While Trump was out playing golf, Biden was announced as the winner of the 2020 presidential election. However, instead of the traditional congratulations to the winner or concession speech, he claimed that voter fraud must be taking place and that the election was "far from over". This led to many, including his own aides, to fear that he will not concede peacefully, and his associates have even come out to say that Trump is unlikely to formally concede under any circumstances. Trump's accusation of fraud votes has led him to question the integrity of election results and use legal action to block the completion of the counting of votes. He had spent months trying to discredit mail-in voting and has used the counts in Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Georgia as false evidence to back up his claim. He has sued the states of Pennsylvania, Nevada, Georgia, and Michigan and has requested a recount in Wisconsin and Georgia as well. Public officials have said that there is no evidence of fraud that would affect the votes, and that they were in the middle of investigating any claims.

        On Saturday, he clearly expressed his opinion in his tweet, "I WON THIS ELECTION, BY A LOT!" after all the major news organizations announced Biden as the winning candidate. Some of his aides have announced that they were hoping to convince him to a public transition as peacefully as possible by Inauguration Day (January 20), but others warn that the turnover will not be the smooth transition it has been in the past.

        I believe that Trump is not acting as professionally as he should be as the now former president of the United States. There has been no evidence to suggest that any fraud was present, but he still insists on recounting and accusing states that had had narrow margins in their counts. I don't think this will reflect nicely on America as a nation, and I hope that all accusations will be resolved as quickly and peacefully as possible.

Do you think Trump's claims of voter fraud are valid? 

What do you think will happen during the transition between president to president?

Biden to announce coronavirus task force as part of presidential transition

 

Article Link

Second Article Link

    Throughout his presidential campaign, Joe Biden pledged to take COVID-19 seriously. Just days into his presidential transition, he will take the first steps in keeping that promise. Unlike our previous president, Biden acknowledges the threat that the coronavirus presents against America. Biden will be announcing a 12-person coronavirus task force on Monday. This task force is meant to prove how seriously Biden plans to reduce the threat. With coronavirus hitting a record number of daily infections, Biden plans to focus on this urgent matter before it gets worse.

    Biden is trying to bring back attention towards the virus, after being shadowed over by the elections. The president-elect is taking the same mindset that he and former President Barack Obama, had when they devoted themselves to the economy when they were elected 12 years ago, and bringing back that mindset towards COVID-19. Biden wants to fight for mandating masks across the country in all public areas. With finding a safe vaccine being expected by early December, but mass production sufficient for everyone coming several month into 2021, Biden does not want to allow the situation to worsen. Mandating mask wearing in all public areas across the country would certainly minimize infections, but in order to mandate people to wear masks, they must enforce it. With some people believing that masks are not necessary, it makes enforcing masks much more difficult. If people do not acknowledge the threat of the coronavirus, then enforcing masks will cause more of a problem. Personally, I believe masks are not an absolute solution to coronavirus, but they certainly mitigate the spread of it. Biden focusing on COVID-19 shows his priority on keeping the American people safe, which in my opinion should always be the number one goal for any president.

Do you think Biden is taking COVID-19 too seriously, and should be focusing on other situations?

Is mandating mask wearing a viable solution to prevent coronavirus from spreading?

Will mandating masks only cause more problems for America?

Mutated Coronavirus Found in Minks: Is COVID 2.0 on the Way?

 

This Thursday, a mutated strain of the coronavirus was found in mink populations in northern Denmark. The new strain has already infected minks in over 200 mink farms.

Other mutations in the past have occurred in various animal species, but they were usually not a big issue since they were either mostly the same virus, or they were not transmittable to humans. However, this new mutation is transmissible to humans--so far, at least 12 people in Denmark have become infected with the new virus.

Although the mutation thankfully doesn't appear to be any more dangerous to humans than the original virus, what is more concerning about this particular variation is that it is less affected by antibody treatments currently in development. What this means is that even if scientists discover a cure or vaccine for COVID-19, the vaccine would most likely have minimal impact on the new virus. If the infection starts spreading rapidly, it could potentially turn into a new pandemic. 

To combat the issue, the Denmark government is taking decisive steps and culling (putting down) every single mink in its mink farms, a total of over 17 million minks. While this is a good measure-it's better to be safe than sorry-some groups are calling for complete bans on mink farming in various countries because of the potential risks it presents with regards to coronavirus.

Although some people are quite unsettled with this new development--to an extent including the WHO, which has called the situation "concerning"--I personally think that it is not a big issue. The Denmark government has done a good job at containing the original coronavirus, and it is taking good steps to clamp down on the new strain before it gets out of hand. What I find more concerning is that this opens up the possibility that other coronavirus strains are circulating in other animal species--possibly even more dangerous than the original--and haven't been found yet. When brought into contact with humans, it's possible that such mutations could trigger rapid infection with a disease that scientists will have to start back at square one to cure. 

Do you think Denmark is taking strict enough measures to combat the spread of the new virus?

How do you think this situation parallels the discovery of COVID-19 in China last year, and how is it different?

How concerned are you about this new strain of the virus?

https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-54842643

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/who-downplays-coronavirus-mink-mutation-risk-after-denmark-orders-huge-n1246726

What Happens if Roe v. Wade Is Overturned?

 

Article link

Overturning Roe v. Wade would then allow states to make abortions illegal in many states (22 probably), but it wouldn't change in most states (27 probably). Those with means would still be able to get the procedure by driving hundreds of miles in some cases to neighboring states, essentially continuing a sad tradition that access is not equally shared amongst Americans. And even if Roe is not overturned, state regulations (like waiting periods, parental consent for minors, admitting privileges in nearby hospitals, etc.) are making abortion clinics close even though the procedure itself isn't illegal. My hope is this medical procedure for a group of Americans who bear the burden of being able to have a child (women) is provided equally. I know this is a difficult topic to talk about, but what's your reaction to this article? 

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris wins 2020 Presidential Election

 

On November 7 2020, it was announced around 11:30am EST that  Joe Biden won Pennsylvania,  pushing his electoral votes over the 270 mark. According to the Associated Press, Biden won the electoral votes 290-214. After a long  5 day wait for the president elect, Biden managed to flip many swing states that were essential in Trump's election in 2016.Many people were thrilled with this news, and went out to celebrate after four exhausting years of Trump's presidency. Kamala Harris is the first female POC vice president in America, and notes that "while I may be the first woman in this office. Later Saturday night, Biden gave a victory speech in Wilmington, Delaware, stating that "this is a time to heal in America". Kamala Harris is the first female POC vice president in America, and notes that "while I may be the first woman in this office, I will not be the last", empowering young girls to fight for their rights. Biden will face extraordinary challenges when entering office in January, with a pandemic, economic decline and the issue of racism and police brutality unresolved. 

Earlier this year, many states in the US started giving the option for mail in ballots, to give as many opportunities for US citizens to vote, while keeping them safe in a pandemic. While democrats initiated this opportunity, Republicans opposed this, with President Trump accusing democrats of trying to "steal an election". With this reasoning, Trump once again accused Democrats and made swing states within 1% of the popular vote recount their ballots. Personally, I don't think this is necessary, as Trump has no evidence of voter fraud and states have been counting ballots efficiently. This could also be an act of frustration from Donald Trump, since he was most likely well aware that he was losing by a decent amount, and could not accept the loss. As of writing this article, Trump has yet to concede and congratulate Biden, but rather continues to tweet about how he is winning and that the election was rigged.

I think that Democrats winning the election is a good thing, since we will now have a leader that takes issues in America seriously. It is unfortunate that basic human rights (women's rights, lgbtq+, equality etc) that so many people in the land of the free have become political. This election was more about maintaining and building these rights, rather than fighting for Democratic or Republican values. Not only am I excited for change, I am also excited for Biden and Harris, as they have faced hardships throughout their path that have helped them grow to be the best leaders possible for this country.

https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/07/politics/joe-biden-wins-us-presidential-election/index.html

https://www.vox.com/2020/8/11/21358960/trump-mail-voting-sabotage-explained

1. Why do you think Donald Trump is refusing to concede?

2. Within these last few months, America has shown its true colors to the world. How do you think Biden plans to combat issues such as racism, police brutality, sexism etc.?

3. Are you excited Biden won or not and why?

Virus hospitalizations surge as pandemic shadows US election

Article Link

            With election day here, COVID-19 plays a role in many factors of voting. One issue that comes with having a presidential election in the middle of a global pandemic is how to keep people safe while voting. Normally millions of people go to the polls on election day to cast their votes for president, representatives, and other issues, but this year it is a safety hazard. Having hundreds of people in the same place, standing in line and casting ballots was bound to have some effect on COVID cases. Even before election day 7 states reported all time high hospitalizations this week. Many states are taking precautions to try to minimize the spread of COVID during the election, but it’s not foolproof. 

Over 232,000 people have died so far in the US as a result of COVID and the seven-day average for deaths is still rising. Many experts are worried about President Trump’s attitude on the matter and disagree with his claim that the US is “rounding the turn”. Many people who fear that Trump isn’t doing enough to prevent the spread of the virus are voting for Joe Biden in the election, in hopes that a new president will make better decisions.

Other’s see the economy as a more pressing issue at the moment. With businesses being shut down for so long the economy is suffering and soem business owners are worried about their futures, especially if they need their business to support their families. Trump’s promises to open up the economy are convincing some voters to vote for him.

Personally I think there needs to be more precautions taken when it comes to the polls. Even though many people are choosing to mail in their ballots as opposed to voting in person, it isn’t enough. People should be encouraged or even required to mail their ballots if they are able to and I think voting should last more than one day in order to spread voters out. In addition, I think the lives of Americans need to be prioritized higher than the economy. It is impossible tobring back the hundreds of thousands of people lost, and preventing more needs to be the most important thing on any president’s mind.

1. What do you think would have been the best plan for voting in order to prevent the spread of COVID?

2. Is it more important to help the economy or prevent the spread of COVID at the moment?

3. Should voters be basing their votes solely on how the candidates plan on handling the current pandemic?

Cyber Command Hunts Potential Hackers of Election

 

    As election day nears, the United States Cyber Command has expanded overseas operation in allied countries in an attempt to pursue Russian hackers and even some in Iran and China. This is done of course after the controversies over the last election where evidence has shown that Russia tampered with the election results. During this overseas operation, Cyber Command has found some malware and other important information and relayed it directly to the US government. In doing so, they help prepare the US government against any potential attacks and allow them to develop some kind of protection just in case. They have also even sent warning messages to potential hackers and have not stayed away from taking down Russian troll farms. Cyber command says that they will not stop in their search for hackers who could attack the America in order to protect American interests. This operation will not end even after election day.
    I personally really like this expanded operation as it is very important that our election isn't being tampered and is fair. I like the fact that the government is trying to eliminate this problem and learning from their past mistakes. This operation shows that the government is invested in eliminating this problem.

Do you believe that the US government is taking the right action?

Will hackers still somehow tamper and mess with this election? What can be done to prevent this?

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/02/us/politics/cyber-command-hackers-russia.html

Police use pepper spray to break up a North Carolina march to a polling place

https://www.cnn.com/2020/10/31/us/north-carolina-police-pepper-spray-polls/index.html 

 

On Saturday, October 31, a march took place in Graham, North Carolina to honor Black Americans like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, among others, who were victims of police brutality, and whose deaths fueled the recent Black Lives Matter movement for racial justice and equality. This scheduled rally intended to make a stop at the courthouse during their march and then proceed to a polling place. 

Though, the march was broken up when Graham police released vaporized pepper spray at the ground in attempts to disperse the crowd. It’s said that they started spraying after the people had stopped, taking a moment of silence to acknowledge the eight minutes and forty-six seconds that a Minneapolis police officer had his knee on George Floyd’s neck. When the marchers didn’t clear the road the police took actions to disperse them. They claim that they asked the marchers to move several times and warned of the spray, but when they didn't agree they deployed the chemical. Commotion ensued and at least 8 arrests were made on various charges. The Graham police say that the marcher’s actions had violated the rules and permits of the rally and became unlawful and violent, but others say arrests were made before the protest even began. 

Some democratic leaders see this event as voter suppression and police brutality. The marchers were exercising their first amendment rights and it was an organized and peaceful march. They think the police dispersed the crowd to prevent them from getting to the polls, bringing up concerns on the apparent issue of voter suppression. Further investigations are being done to determine if the Graham police force’s actions were appropriate.

I think that the police actions were uncalled for and showed an excessive use of force. The march was peaceful, and it was the police’s actions that caused chaos and violence. The marchers were acting for a cause and the police responded to the slightest show of violation with unneeded disruptive measures. Though, I’m not sure if this was necessarily voter suppression. It doesn't seem like the main motive was to prevent the people from getting to the polls. I do think, though, that it brings to light other instances of attempts to prevent voters from submitting their ballots, and brings up the issue of voter suppression, which I believe is very relevant and present in the current election. 

Questions:

1. Do you think the police’s actions were appropriate in the conditions of the event and the march?

2. What do you think should be done to address the issues of voter suppression and police brutality?

3. How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected the current election and the nature of current politics?

Plastic-Eating Super-Enzymes

 

    Plastic poses a huge threat to the environment in the current day and age. It's something that cannot be decomposed easily, and unlike common garbage waste it takes plastic 8 times longer to fully decompose. However, with this new super enzyme created by researchers at the Center for Enzyme Innovation in the UK and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado plastic is easily broken down in a matter of days to its chemical building blocks. They combined a known plastic eating enzyme with another to speed up the process in which it breaks the plastic down, creating this new super enzyme. 

    Plastic is something most people rely on a daily basis, so it’s super necessary, but with this comes a multitude of negative aspects. I know everyone has seen videos of sea life stuck in some sort of plastic. To me, and I think most people, that's super depressing to see that we are the cause of something like that. But, with new engineering and creation of enzymes like this, most plastic waste will be able to be recycled in a matter of days and it reverts the plastic back to its original composition. Something like this will have a huge positive impact in a time like this where most of the news is negative. 

1. How mindful are you of your use of plastic in your everyday life and why is it super necessary/helpful?

2. How would this scientific research and enzyme development affect countries with tons of plastic waste, like the Philippines, as well as countries like the U.S.?

https://www.businessinsider.com/plastic-eating-super-enzyme-recycles-plastic-bottles-2020-10

People who place their 'I Voted' stickers on Susan B. Anthony's headstone will notice something different there this year

 

    For many years, it has been a tradition for women to place their “I voted” stickers on women's rights activist, Susan B. Anthony’s gravestone. Susan B. Anthony played a pivotal role in the women’s rights movement, advocating for equality and social reforms. She worked alongside Elizabeth Cady Stanton and founded the National Woman Suffrage Association in 1869. In 1872, Anthony was arrested for voting in Rochester, New York, but this didn’t stop her to continue to give speeches and publish articles to pave the way for women’s suffrage. Sadly, she died and never got to see the 19th amendment passed, giving women the right to vote.

    Many women attribute their right to vote to this pioneer in women's suffrage, wanting to recognize the many sacrifices she made for the movement.  Because of the thousands of people coming to the gravestone to commemorate her work, cemetery officials placed a proactive barrier to preserve her gravestone from possible damage. Many believe placing these stickers is an act of patriotism, and thanking Susan B. Anthony. On the other hand, many believe this is an act of vandalism and is very disrespectful to her gravesite. 

    There is no doubt in my mind that Susan B. Anthony should be celebrated for all her efforts towards the movement. While placing these stickers could harm her gravestone, I think it is a very important tradition, uniting women across the country. By celebrating her in this way, we are continuing her mission for women’s rights. 

Article Link 

1. Should there be more measures taken to preserve Susan B. Anthony’s grave? If so, what should be done?

2. Is it disrespectful to place these stickers on her gravestone in the first place? If so, how can we honor her in another way?