Retailers want to avoid this scene this upcoming holiday season.
TREVOR COLLENS/AFP/Getty Images
For many retailers, the holiday shopping season will begin well before Thanksgiving this year.
Retailers want to avoid crowds and large order volumes that could lead to delays.
Complicating matters, UPS, FedEx, and the US Postal Service have all announced surcharges on holiday shipping that will go into effect later this year.
This year, shoppers might start to see holiday deals roll out alongside leftover Halloween candy.
A growing number of retailers have said that due to the coronavirus pandemic, they will shift the timing of their holiday promotions to avoid the usual rush in November and December.
Target recently said that it would close its stores on Thanksgiving and start rolling out its holiday deals in October.
During the company's earnings call on August 19, CEO Brian Cornell said Target would have to "stay nimble" to adjust to a "very different holiday season."
"We're going to put a big premium on ease and convenience, delivering great value, but will emphasize safety. And we'll also make sure that our guests knows that those top items and that great value is going to be available throughout the season," Cornell said, emphasizing that the store's same-day fulfillment options would give shoppers flexibility on the timing of their shopping.
Black Friday as a shopping holiday has been declining in importance over the last several years as spending continues to move online and discounts become more prevalent year-round.
Still, beginning holiday deals in October represents a big shift to a seasonal schedule that usually sees retailers double down on the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas. A number of retailers, including Walmart and Best Buy, have joined Target in saying they would keep stores closed on Thanksgiving.
Nordstrom said in its own earnings call on Tuesday that while it would likely stop short of decorating stores for Christmas before Thanksgiving, it would make gifts available earlier in the fall than usual.
"I think it's pretty clear that there's an opportunity for us to sell gifts prior to Thanksgiving," Pete Nordstrom, president and chief brand officer at Nordstrom, said during the call.
The changes aren't just about physical stores, though. Shipping volumes have been unusually high as consumers opt to shop online and largely stay home amid the ongoing pandemic.
Victoria's Secret and Bath & Body Works parent L Brands similarly said in earnings that it would spread its holiday promotions over a longer period of time rather than concentrate them in the fourth quarter, when it typically sees the "majority" of its annual sales and profits due to gift-buying.
The company said it would do so because of "traffic constraints imposed by social distancing protocols in stores and capacity restraints in our direct channel distribution centers," adding that it had a "very cautious outlook about our ability to manage our typical holiday volumes."
Complicating matters, UPS, FedEx, and the US Postal Service have all announced surcharges on holiday shipping that will go into effect later this year. Spreading deals out over a larger period of time could help retailers better manage the impact of those surcharges.
In Kohl's earnings call, CFO Jill Timm referred to the surcharges as a "headwind" and said the company is working through alternatives to avoid them. Kohl's is also looking to get holiday shopping going in October.
The pandemic has disrupted the usual retail calendar in more ways than one. The back-to-school shopping season, for example, doesn't seem to have provided the sales surge that certain retailers usually see, as distance learning has continued for many students across the country.
Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Fran Horowitz told CNBC that she expects both back-to-school and holiday shopping to stretch on for longer than usual. She called the trend a "flattening of the curve."
"Maybe the peak [around] Black Friday isn't as big, but there is still a lot of opportunity in December to do a lot of business," Horowitz told CNBC.
President Donald Trump blasted his niece, Mary Trump, on Twitter Saturday, calling her "unstable" and saying that she was "rightfully shunned, scorned and mocked her entire life, and never even liked by her own very kind & caring grandfather!"
Trump's tweets, in which he also said people can only land book deals and jobs with CNN and MSNBC (which he calls "MSDNC") if they "contain as much bad 'stuff' as possible," came after Mary released new recordings of his sister, Maryanne Trump Barry, criticizing the president's children.
After Ivanka Trump posted a photo of her and her son on Instagram while the Trump administration was separating children from their families at the border, Barry can be heard in recordings saying: "That damn Ivanka puts this picture of the Madonna and Child on Instagram when the big news of the day was how kids are being ripped from their families."
Mary Trump's book describes accounts in which the president bullies and cheats "as a way of life"
Mary also says the president went to the movies while his older brother was dying, and that his behavior is at odds with his evangelical base.
"The only time Donald went to church was when the cameras were there," Mary writes, quoting her aunt. "It's mind-boggling. But that's all about his base. He has no principles. None!"
She blames Trump's nature on his abusive upbringing by a father who hated apologies more than failures, and who didn't allow the president to access or express his feelings.
"That's what sociopaths do: they co-opt others and use them toward their own ends — ruthlessly and efficiently, with no tolerance for dissent or resistance," she writes.
Jen Glantz works as a hired bridesmaid for strangers getting married.
Jen Glantz
Jen Glantz is an entrepreneur and founder of the company Bridesmaid for Hire, for which she works as a professional bridesmaid in the weddings of complete strangers.
On the big day, she says her duties involve everything from being the bride's personal assistant, social director, peacekeeper, and unofficial on-call therapist.
While no wedding is ever the same, Glantz says there's always family drama, a variety of last-minute problems, and loads of tears.
When I often tell people that I work as a bridesmaid for hire they almost immediately think that's just a fancy word for wedding planner.
But wedding planners are very different: They work on setting up the wedding and coordinating details of the look and feel of the whole celebration.
What do I do? It can seem complicated, but my job is more than just wearing the bridesmaid dress, pretending to know the bride from a specific time in her life, dancing on the dance floor, and giving a maid-of-honor speech.
A lot of what I do requires putting out fights (between the bride and the cast of characters in her life), finding missing things (from bridesmaid dresses to grooms), and running around solving problems (like Diet Coke spilled on the wedding dress before the ceremony, handling a bride with cold feet, or trying to keep the mother of the bride busy so she and the bride don't have another argument). That's the simple version of my job.
The heart of my job is being there for the person who hired me, which often means that every wedding looks and feels different from my perspective. Here's what a day in my life looks like.
My day often starts before sunrise
I'm the first person to greet the bride on her wedding day, it's my job to pump her up.
Jen Glantz
I'm the first person at the bride's hotel suite the morning of the wedding and I'm usually there by 6:30 a.m. when she wakes up.
I bring her favorite breakfast and a large cup of coffee or tea. I usually also bring flowers to add life and color to the morning. I put on my playlist and help the bride start the day with a quick dance party.
We run through the flow of the day and talk through any nerves or problems she anticipates. I organize her dress and accessories before I pack her bag for the wedding and for the wedding night. I also make sure we spend 20 minutes doing some silent meditation and deep breathing before the hair and makeup process begins or the other bridesmaids arrive.
I meet dozens of new people on the morning of the big day
Once the other bridesmaids show up, I often meet them for the first time. Of course they question who I am and why I haven't been at any other pre-wedding events. I always have answers ready for each situation and the bride backs me up. I help them steam their dresses and tell them it's my specialty. I also know in advance who will be problematic that day and try to buddy up with them so I can intervene before the drama gets to the bride.
If there aren't any other bridesmaids, I meet the other people in the bride's life, like parents or family members who are getting ready with her that morning. Usually they pull me aside, talk my ear off with different drama and problems, all without knowing I'm hired to work the wedding.
Why do they do it? At weddings, everyone involved wants a pair of ears to vent to. I always make mine available so that I have inside access to all the problems taking place, so I can help ease tension among the people there.
Tears are inevitable at every wedding
I bring at least seven packs of tissues and they all get used throughout the wedding day.
Adam Kossoff
Usually, right before the ceremony starts, a set of tears begin. Sometimes it's from an overwhelmed or cold-footed bride, other times it's from a bridesmaid who is sabotaging the wedding experience with her emotions and problems. Occasionally it's from a stubborn or opinionated family member. Either way, this is when I pull out my first tissue pack of the day (I carry seven mini tissue packs with me for each wedding — they always get used).
I often spend 15 to 20 minutes inviting the crying person into the hallway with me to talk things out. I'm good at getting them to stop crying and usually that's because I listen, question them, and try to bribe them to calm down (with a mid-morning coffee or pastry).
Problems often pop up last-minute before the ceremony
Right before the ceremony, there's always a problem I have to attend to. I make sure I get ready for the wedding as early as possible so I don't have a curling iron in my hand when the morning problem happens. Sometimes it's a stained wedding dress, a missing groom, a hungover bridesmaid, a broken bracelet, a late officiant, or bad weather.
While I do my best to fix the problem, sometimes I can't, like when there's torrential rain and the wedding is outside without a tent. I do my best to come up with crafty solutions and if that doesn't work, I'm honest with the bride. I'd rather set realistic expectations — because if not, they count on me to do the impossible, like make the sun come out.
After the ceremony, things slow down and I sneak away for a quick break
When the ceremony is over, I hide in the bathroom for some peace and quiet.
Jen Glantz
Once I finish walking down the aisle and the couple has said "I do," things slow down for me. I bustle the bride's dress, bring her and her partner food from cocktail hour, and let them be for a little bit. I go off and hide in a bathroom stall for 30 minutes, take deep breaths, and try to unpack all that happened so far. I often try to sneak in my first meal of the day, since finding time to eat amid nonstop chaos can be tricky, before going back to work.
As cocktail hour gets underway, another problem usually pops up
When I exit the bathroom, someone usually grabs me and pulls me toward a problem, such as the couple fighting, a groom who is too drunk already, or a bridesmaid threatening to leave because she feels left out. Most of the time it's that the bride needs help peeing in her wedding dress. I return to the bathroom and spend 20 minutes helping her.
I'm in charge of getting the party started and keeping it going
I'm always the first person on the dance floor.
Jen Glantz
Once the reception doors open, I'm expected to be the first person on the dance floor. Have you ever danced alone at a wedding while all the guests watched from their tables? That's part of my job. I try to pull people onto the dance floor and make the environment fun. It can be tricky, especially if the crowd isn't interested or the music is bad. But I do what I can to make the night exciting and fun.
As the night wears on, I make a secret exit
I leave the weddings without saying goodbye.
Jen Glantz
When my time is up (based on how many hours the bride hired me for) I grab my bag and find the exit door. I don't say goodbye because I don't want to draw attention to myself leaving. I try to be as discreet as possible, so I tell people I'm heading to the bathroom, then I call a cab and get back to my hotel or the airport, where I either catch a flight home or continue on to the next wedding of the weekend.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel speaks about Chicago's weekend of gun violence during a news conference at the Chicago Police Department 6th District station, Monday, August 6, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois.
Former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel on Sunday said President Donald Trump's "version of American politics is his version of Hunger Games."
Emanuel said in a roundtable on ABC's "This Week" that Trump is "literally pitting American against American" when "Americans are exhausted of this constant conflict."
"His version of American politics is his version of Hunger Games," Rahm added. "He is literally pitting American against American."
He said that Trump's divisive politics is "not the solution" when "Americans are exhausted of this constant conflict."
Emanuel's comments come after months of protests for racial equality and justice emerged across the US in response to George Floyd's killing in Minneapolis police custody.
Trump has often raised alarms with his dismissive and antagonistic responses to the protests, including a tweet he posted in May that said in part, "When the looting starts, the shooting starts."
But Trump has ignored these concerns and remains convinced he must focus on the "grievances of his core base of white voters" to win the election, according to the Washington Post.
President Donald Trump told reporters last week that mixing politics with sports will "destroy basketball."
Trump was asked on Friday about some initiatives from the NBA and its players to protest against police brutality, including delaying last week's playoff games days after Jacob Blake was shot by police.
"You know when you watch sports, you want to sort of relax, but this is a whole different world ... You don't want to stay in politics. You want to relax," Trump said, before warning that political statements from football and baseball teams could be "very bad" for the leagues.
When asked on Friday about actions the league and players in the wake of Jacob Blake's shooting by police, Trump said the political statements will "destroy basketball."
"It's terrible," Trump said, according to a White House press pool report. "I think what they're doing to the NBA in particular is going to destroy basketball. I can't - I don't even watch it. ... You know when you watch sports, you want to sort of relax, but this is a whole different world. ... You don't want to stay in politics. You want to relax."
It's not just the NBA taking a stance. On Thursday, it was reported that several NFL teams sat out of practice in response to the shooting, which Trump also called "very bad."
"It's very bad for the NBA and it's going to prove to be very bad for football," Trump continued. "It's going to be very bad for football and I think it's very bad for the NBA. Maybe even NBA threatening. And it's going to be very bad for baseball if they don't get smarter."
Among the football teams that canceled practice are the Chicago Bears, New York Jets, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Tennessee Titans, Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Chargers, and Washington Football Team, according to ESPN.
As for the NBA, some teams have already announced that their arenas will be used for voting in November. Business Insider's Grace Panetta previously reported that the league would "establish a social justice coalition" and broadcast ads during games that will promote voting in both national and local elections and spread awareness about the importance of improving voting access.
U.S. President Donald Trump signs a document as Alice Johnson looks on during an event in the Oval Office of the White House August 28, 2020 in Washington, DC.
Anna Moneymaker/Pool/Getty Images
President Donald Trump on Friday pardoned Alice Marie Johnson, the 63-year-old grandmother who was serving a life sentence for non-violent drug offenses.
Trump granted Johnson clemency in 2018, with the help of Kim Kardashian West who championed for her early release from Aliceville correctional facility in Alabama.
Johnson spoke at the Republican National Convention praising her freedom, "by the grace of God and the compassion of President Donald John Trump."
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump pardoned a woman on Friday who had praised him the night before at the Republican National Convention.
Trump pardoned Alice Marie Johnson, who had spent more than two decades serving life without parole for a nonviolent drug offense. She had been convicted in 1996 on eight criminal counts related to a Memphis-based cocaine trafficking operation.
"Ms. Johnson has accepted responsibility for her past behavior and has been a model prisoner over the past two decades. Despite receiving a life sentence, Alice worked hard to rehabilitate herself in prison, and act as a mentor to her fellow inmates," the White House said in a 2018 statement.
Unlike a pardon, the commutation did not erase Johnson's conviction — it only ended her sentence.
Trump said Johnson had done an "incredible job" since her release, identifying additional prisoners who could be eligible for early release. "We're giving Alice a full pardon," Trump said on Friday.
Johnson had spoken at the convention about the power of redemption and praised Trump. Trump has sought to highlight criminal justice reform leading up to November's election as he reaches out to African American voters.
She said Thursday that she was free "by the grace of God and the compassion of President Donald John Trump."
Business Insider's Taylor contributed to this reporting.
White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows during an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press."
Meet The Press/NBC
White House chief of staff Mark Meadows on Sunday said amid tense protests, President Donald Trump is "on the side of law enforcement and the rule of law."
Meadows made the comments on NBC's "Meet the Press" when moderator Chuck Todd asked him why Trump hadn't disavowed the actions of his own supporters, but frequently critiques the actions of other demonstrators.
Months of protests against racism and police brutality have seen violent and destructive actors, with clashes between anti-racism activists and supporters of the president.
Earlier Sunday, Trump, who has attacked Democratic leaders in cities where anti-racism protests have sometimes turned violent, tweeted "LAW & ORDER!!!"
White House chief of staff Mark Meadows on Sunday said that President Donald Trump is "on the side of law enforcement and the rule of law" when Chuck Todd, the moderator of NBC's "Meet the Press," asked him why Trump hadn't publicly criticized the actions of his own supporters.
While months of protests against racism and police brutality — sparked by the May police killing of 46-year-old George Floyd in Minneapolis — have often been peaceful, like a march on Washington, DC, last week, they've also at times been violent and destructive.
One person was killed late Saturday in Portland, Oregon, a city that's functioned as a microcosm of the nationwide political debate over the demonstrations as local and state leaders repeatedly clash with Trump over how to respond to them.
As NBC News reported, despite reports that their presence has in some cases led to further unrest, the president on Sunday tweeted praises of his supporters, calling them "GREAT PATRIOTS!," while calling other protesters "Disgraceful Anarchists."
"I'm just trying to understand," Todd said, referring to Rittenhouse. "The president denounced the violence on one side of protesters he didn't like, but why not denounce what this young man did?"
"Let me tell you where the president is," Meadows responded. "The president's on the side of law enforcement and the rule of law. And he's been very consistent in that."
Earlier in the interview, Meadows further implied that violence in cities like Portland was the result of poor leadership by local and state Democratic leaders.
"These are people that every single night conduct violent acts," Meadows said of demonstrators. "And it is in Democrat cities. You know, you want to talk about Donald Trump's America. Most of Donald Trump's America is peaceful. It is a Democrat-led city in Portland that we're talking about this morning who just yesterday denied help once again from the federal government."
"When you sent the Feds to Portland last month, you made the situation far worse," Wheeler wrote, telling the president he did not want federal agents in the city. "Your offer to repeat that disaster is a cynical attempt to stoke fear and distract us from the real work of our city."
"We need to make sure that we hold people accountable," Meadows said on Sunday of violent actors. "And ultimately, we need to make sure that these people that are conducting these acts go to jail."
The police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin has sparked protests around the country.
Yesterday, in front of the Florida Historic Capitol building, a counter-protester pulled a gun on Black Live Matter protesters after getting knocked to the ground.
As the Tallahassee Democrat reported, the city stated in a press release that the individual had a license to carry a concealed weapon. The city also pointed out that the protest was not permitted, and protesters did not coordinate with the police department ahead of time to coordinate and ensure safety.
"The evidence confirmed the physical altercation between numerous protesters and that the individual was knocked to the ground and under attack before lawfully defending himself," the press release states.
According to the Tallahassee Democrat, the city found that the incident transpired after a white man was pushed by a white protester for documenting the protest, thus sparking a fight. As the counter-protester got up from the ground, he drew his weapon.
As seen on the video, the man was quickly unarmed by police. No injuries were reported.
Rosé tends to be the drink of the summer — but experts said it's a great wine for any time of year.
Shutterstock.com
As summer approaches, so too nears the time to begin stocking your fridge with one of the season's favorite adult beverages: rosé.
If you're new to the pink wine, experts recommend trying out a variety of hues from pale to deep to discover what most pleases your palate.
If you're looking for something to complement your fruit and cheese picnic, try a pale Provencal; if you need a pairing for a seafood dinner, go for a robust California bottle.
With Memorial Day in the rearview mirror, we are officially in the fast lane to summer.
And what does summer signal? Rosé on rooftops, of course.
While this summer you may be sipping your rosé on your own rooftop with a mask firmly at your side, choosing the right rosé can certainly elevate any self-isolation experience, transforming your personal space into a Provencal paradise.
"For folks that may be new to rosé, I would encourage them to try a few different hues," said Andy Myers, wine director at Jose Andres Think Food Group. "Try a pale Provencal one, a blushing Spanish, and a rich, dark US version. See what you like."
He adds that rosés should ideally be dry — anywhere from 12.5% ABV or higher is a dry rosé — and loaded with fresh, vibrant fruits like strawberries and raspberries.
A note from our experts: While we tend to think of warm weather as "rosé season," our experts unanimously agree that there is no such thing, and a great rosé can be enjoyed any time of year. The taste of a good rosé can give us something to look forward to and transport us to a beautiful afternoon at any time of year — which may be just the dose of optimism we need right about now.
"The biggest misconception about rosé is that it's only for warm-weather enjoyment. The truth is that rosé is fantastic year round," said Brian Freedman, a wine, spirits, food, and travel writer. He consults on restaurants, is a drinks educator, event host, speaker, and regular wine contributor for Food & Wine Magazine.
"In fact, I love opening a bottle on a snowy evening in the dead of winter. It's my own little protest against the cold and the dark, and a wonderful reminder that better days are sure to come," Freedman added. Well said!
Anyway, shall we get on with it? Whether you're spread out on a picnic blanket in your own backyard or staring longingly out of your apartment window in the city, these are 14 of the best rosés to try this summer, according to our experts.
1. Liquid Geography
Liquid Geography Rosé.
Courtesy of Liquid Geography
This is a rosé from Rioja that hasn't quite reached the US yet, but will be launching here in just a few months.
"It's a delicious Garnacha-based rosé," said Myers. "The best part is that Ole & Obrigado Imports is donating 50% of the profits to World Central Kitchen," a charity started by Jose Andres that helps battle global hunger.
"Pairing rosé is easy," he added. "Serve it with happiness. Most rosés are uncomplicated, easy, and fun. They tend to get along with everything from fresh veggies to hearty meats. Don't overthink it."
2. Chateau d'Esclans Whispering Angel Rose 2019
Whispering Angel.
Courtesy of Chateau d'Esclans
If you're a rooftop rosé veteran, chances are you've heard of Whispering Angel. This is the rosé that made most Americans fall for the Provencal style.
"Great rosés are being made in almost every wine region, but I have a particular affinity for rosés from the South of France," said Gillian Sciaretta, associate editor at Wine Spectator. "Provence is arguably the most important region in the world for rosé, and many winemakers outside of France strive to make Provencal-styled wines."
What sets a Provencal rosé apart? Its flavors of citrus, red berry, melon, tangerine, spice, herb, and wet stone. Rosés from Provence are dry and have minerals as well. Pair them with seafood and summer salads, Sciaretta added.
3. 2019 Minuty Rosé et Or
Rose et Or.
Courtesy of Chateau Minuty
This is a rosé that beautifully captures the Chateau Minuty Saint-Tropez estate. It also happens to be the best rosé wine among Vivino users, with a 4.3-star rating.
"[It] speaks of the seaside with its freshness and flavors and represents the ultimate in what a quality Cotes de Provence rosé can achieve," said Joel Anthony Caruso, Vivino's partner sommelier and beverage educator. "Its gentle freshness gives way to concentrated, almost gourmet flavors."
4. 2019 Cotes de Provence Rose Tentations Clos Cibonne
Rose Tentations Clos Cibonne.
Courtesy of Clos Cibonne
From the Tibouren varietal, this is a rosé that offers a little twist on the traditional.
"A geeky rosé option for those looking for something different," said Brian Phillips, acting general manager and sommelier for The Citrus Club and former wine director for Darden Restaurant Group. "It's very expressive of the Provencal Mediterranean climate and environment, but the unique Tibouren varietal wine delivers a complex bouquet of flavors apart from the more common cuvee of Provence."
Phillips recommended sipping Clos Cibonne with richer dishes, from seafood stews to assorted aged cheeses.
5. Sofia Brut Rosé 2019, Francis Ford Coppola Winery
Sofia Brut Rosé.
Courtesy of FCC Winery
If you're in the mood for something celebratory, a sparkling rosé pairs perfectly with a festive occasion. And these days, we certainly could use a few more reasons to celebrate.
Phillips recommended the Sofia Brut Rosé for its hint of off-dry sweetness. Fun fact: It's available in both bottles and cans.
"Pair this with any water time recreation or chilling on a summer day," he said. "Its bubbles and touch of sweetness are perfect on their own as a great refresher."
6. Le Charmel Provence 2019
Le Charmel Rosé.
Courtesy of Le Charmel
For Melvyn Master, proprietor of Le Charmel, Mont Gravet, Exem, Tortoise Creek, Kin & Cascadia, and Tiamo Organic, rosé should always be from Provence or the south of France. In particular, this year he's excited for his Le Charmel Provence.
"I think these styles of rosé can be enjoyed alone, but their versatility allows them to be all occasion wines," he said. "For newbies, I would always choose something that is from the south of France, as these wines are the most representative of rosé at its best."
7. Domaines Ott 'BY.OTT' Rosé
BY.OTT Rosé.
Courtesy of Domaines Ott
Freedman has tasted more than 120 different rosés for the 2020 season, so you can trust his judgment when he recommends Domaines Ott "BY.OTT" rosé from Cotes de Provence.
"Like a lot of people, my wine drinking time has definitely shifted to earlier in the day as quarantine has worn on," he said. Rosé is perfect for that, as it's light enough to be enjoyed well before 5 p.m. "The classic pairing is rosé with Nicoise salad, but I love it with everything from canned sardines to potato chips to grilled hot dogs," he explained.
Pro tip: Freedman's preferred rosé meal is Hebrew Nationals on a Martin's potato roll topped with sauerkraut, relish, and mustard.
"Great rosé pairs with it perfectly," he said. "My only complaint is that the bottle tends to vanish way more quickly than I ever expected."
8. Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Rosé of Pinot Gris 2019 Willamette Valley
Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Rosé of Pinot Gris 2019.
Courtesy of Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate
For something a little richer, Freedman recommended the Anne Amie Twelve Oaks Estate Rosé, which is copper in color and has notes of caramel, dried pineapples, tarragon, and lime juice.
"Personally, there are times when I want a richer style of rosé, something a bit more extracted, and others when I crave that classic, delicate, detailed Provencal style. The good news is that you can find it all with relative ease," he said.
9. JNSQ Rosé Cru
JNSQ Rosé Cru.
Courtesy of JNSQ
For a touch of style and unique presentation, master sommelier Joe Spellmen recommended JNSQ ("je ne sais quois"). Sourced from vineyards all over the California central coast, this rosé is based on Grenache.
"Its 'secret sauce,'" he revealed, "is a very small percentage of Viognier to bump up the floral character of the nose. It's a delightful wine with fine food like steamed lobster, sautéed scallops, or by itself for celebratory occasions."
"It is a firm and dry wine," Spellman said. "With just a touch of white pepper and fresh apple in its attractive aromas, it's a great aperitif with charcuterie or fine farmstead cheeses."
11. Arnot-Roberts Rosé California 2019
Arnot-Roberts Rosé.
Courtesy of Arnot-Roberts
For Christopher Hoel, expert curator for Wine Insiders and Martha Stewart Wine Co., founder of Harper's Club, and former wine director at French Laundry, you can find great rosé from all over the world, but in an oversaturated market where much of it isn't worth sipping, it can be hard to navigate the shelves.
"Domestically, I like Arnot-Roberts," he said. "They do a funky rosé based on one of the staple grapes in the production of port, but they do it in a very delicate style." It's a pale-style rosé, which is odd coming from one of the thickest skin grapes out there, but it's one that he absolutely loves.
12. Viña Tondonia Rosé Gran Reserva 2009, Lopez de Heredia
Viña Tondonia Rosé Gran Reserva 2009.
Courtesy of Lopez de Heredia
If you really want to mix it up, as many of these wine experts suggested you do with your rosé, Lopez de Heredia is a wine producer in Rioja that's creating some fabulous rosé. Their vintage rosé is aged in American barrels for four years, and then another four years in the bottle. If you know anything about rosé, that may seem wild to you, but according to Hoel, it's a must-try.
"The current vintage is impossible to get," he said. Not because it's expensive, but because it's rare. In fact, he said it's not even that expensive, just a tough one to discover.
"It is one of the most amazing rosé experiences you'll ever have. If you see it somewhere, buy it and call me," he added.
13. Miraval
Miraval
For that classic, mineral, Provencal-style rose, Phillips recommends Miraval, particularly for its wild herb notes and crisp, dry finish.
"Miraval is great on its own," he says, "but it's ideal with seafood, as its crunchy mineralogy and light pink hue complements fresh and briny flavors of the sea."
With rose, he adds, be on the lookout for the latest vintage. For 2020 we should be looking for 2019. Only in rare cases does a rose improve with age.
14. 2017 Jean-Yves Péron 'Vers la Maison Rouge'
2017 Jean-Yves Péron 'Vers la Maison Rouge'.
Winery Jean-Yves Péron
This particular rosé is a party in a bottle. Why? Because they only bottle it in Magnum. And once you taste it, you may have a tough time putting it away.
"This is a super fresh, bright, and fruity rosé made of the Savoie varietal, Mondeuse, with a dash of Gamay," said Billy Smith, sommelier and assistant wine director at Michelin-starred The Four Horsemen restaurant in Brooklyn.
Smith attributes the fruity, yet acidic, flavors to the high altitude vineyards, which makes this dark rosé completely dry.
"One regular-sized bottle would just be a disappointment," he added.
Nothing says summer sipping quite like a glass of gin, topped with tonic water and a slice of lime.
The herb-infused liquor can vary widely in taste from different distilleries, but generally contains touches of spicy juniper berries, aromatic pine, and refreshing citrus.
If you enjoy a lighter spirit, try the Japanese Roku Gin with flavors of Yuzu peel and green tea; if you prefer something with a kick, reach for the Irish Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin which blends orris root from Morocco and cardamom from India.
After a long (okay, ridiculously long) spring, we're finally ready for a sip of summer... with a gin, a splash of tonic, and a wedge of lime, of course.
Gin is a juniper-infused distilled spirit that hails originally from the British Isles. There are a number of different gin styles and classifications, but what they all have in common is the predominant flavor of juniper berries. After that, gin producers concoct their own combination of "botanicals," which are other natural ingredients and flavorings, to give their own distinct gin spin.
"Like most things in the food and beverage world, deciding which is the 'best' or 'good' is simply a matter of taste and flavor preference," said Henrik Muehle, the general manager of London's Flemings Mayfair Hotel and a board member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The five-star hotel is known for the personal "gin bars" that they stock in guests' suites with a variety of small batch gins. "For me, the hallmarks of any 'good' gin come down to the distillation process and the botanicals."
To start, he says, how the gin is distilled becomes the first essential piece that creates the base on top of which the juniper and other botanicals will be added.
"The better the distillation process, the more pure the base will be," he said. "A good gin with the right amount of botanicals, simply needs a bit of citrus and tonic to bring out all the natural flavors."
Today there are hundreds of gins, from the big name brands to the small, craft distilleries. We've reached out to several spirits experts to determine which gins are the ones you need to know right now.
1. Roku Gin
Roku gin.
Courtesy of Roku
Roku is the Japanese word for number six. In this case, it's a reference to the six Japanese botanicals in Roku Gin.
"Sakura flower, sakura leaf, Yuzu peel, sencha tea, Gyokuro (green) tea, and Sansho pepper," said Muehle. "This is a delicate and smooth gin with subtle, sweet citrus, and delicate floral notes."
He recommends it with a light tonic or as a sipping gin with a splash of sparkling water.
2. Williams Elegant 48
Williams Elegant 48 Gin.
Courtesy of Williams Elegant
What makes Williams Elegant 48 Gin so unique is that it's distilled from 48 varieties of rare apples, which grow in 200-year-old orchards on a farm just north of London, England. Muehle adds that other botanicals include juniper, citrus, and floral notes, giving it a clean and aromatic taste.
"While this gin makes particularly good martini, I personally like this served with elderflower tonic, garnished with a slice of green apple," he said.
3. Martin Millers
Martin Millers gin.
Courtesy of Martin Millers.
If you're looking for small batch gin, look no further than Martin Millers. Distilled in a small batch pot still in England, it is shipped to Iceland where it is reduced to bottling strength with fresh spring water.
"While this gin is a touch spicier than most, its clean taste and superb balance make it hugely enjoyable," said Muehle. "With refreshing notes of citrus followed by notes of cardamom and black pepper, it has a clean taste and a slightly spicy, warming finish."
He recommends drinking it with tonic and garnishing with fresh strawberry and a crack of black pepper.
4. King of Soho
King of Soho.
Courtesy of King of Soho
King of Soho gin is made by Howard Raymond, who is the son of Paul Raymond, a property tycoon known for his work that shaped the face of London's Soho neighborhood.
Muehle loves this gin for its juniper and herbal notes, along with grapefruit flavors. He describes it as smooth and elegant with a delicate licorice sweetness. He says it is the perfect choice for a classic Negroni.
5. Ferdinand's Saar Dry Gin
Ferdinand's Saar Dry Gin.
Courtesy of Ferdinand's
Hailing from Germany, Ferdinand's Saar Dry Gin gives its drinkers a true sense of place. It's crafted with more than 30 different botanicals, including a small amount of semi-sweet Riesling, a wine native to Germany.
"Floral notes with lavender and lemongrass are followed by subtle citrus and rose him," said Muehle. "It has an incredibly soft and dry finish with a long aftertaste."
He recommends it in a dry martini or with Mediterranean tonic.
6. Gin Mare
Gin Mare gin.
Courtesy of Gin Mare
With botanicals like basil, rosemary, and Arbequina olives, Gin Mare is all about capturing the essence of the Mediterranean Sea. It's fitting, seeing as it's distilled in Spain. Muehle loves this memorable gin served with Mediterranean tonic and garnished with fresh thyme or in a dry martini.
7. Tanqueray Ten
Tanqueray Ten.
Courtesy of Tanqueray
When you say gin, the first thing that inevitably comes to mind is the good old fashioned gin and tonic. The G&T is a classic, whether it's World Gin Day or not. If you're mixing up a few this weekend, Kara Newman, the spirits editor for Wine Enthusiast magazine and author of several cocktail books, most recently "Cocktails with a Twist," recommends reaching for the Tanqueray Ten.
"Clean, crisp, classic," Newman said. "It's more citrusy than the standard Tanqueray Dry, but still has a harmonious mix of grapefruit, citrus, and juniper."
8. Plymouth Gin
Plymouth gin.
Courtesy of Plymouth
Distilled in Plymouth, England, Plymouth Gin is one of the world's most recognized brands — and for good reason. Newman recommends it because it is a full-bodied gin that goes light on the juniper.
"This makes it versatile enough for a wide range of cocktails," she told Business Insider. Her favorite cocktail to use Plymouth with is a Negroni.
9. Fords Gin
Fords Gin.
Courtesy of Fords
Fords, distilled in London, is the brainchild of eighth generation master distillers Charles Maxwell and Simon Ford. The gin is steeped for 15 hours with a botanical blend prior to distillation. Newman likes Fords for its notes of citrus, spice, and a distinct note of cilantro. She calls it a great "workhorse gin," and prefers to sip it in martinis and gimlets.
10. St. George Terroir Mount Tam Gin
St. George Terroir Mount Tam Gin.
Courtesy of St. George Gin
Cocktails with a conscience. That's what this gin is all about, seeing as they donate a portion of their profits to the California wilderness. This distinct boutique-style gin comes from a craft distiller in Alameda, California. You'll notice strong notes of pine, probably because one of the botanicals used is Douglas fir. Others include fennel and sage.
"The foresty flavor plays well with lime," Newman said. "I'd mix it into a Southside Fizz."
11. Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin
Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin.
Courtesy of Kyoto Distillery
Japan definitely has a share of the market cornered when it comes to whiskey, but did you know that they've also got a strong grasp on gins, as well? This one is from a small producer in Kyoto. It's rice-based with floral notes that are evocative of shiso and bamboo leaf.
"What I love about the new-isa wave of Japan-made gins is their incredibly light, silky texture," said Newman. "I'd gladly have this in a martini-style drink with a shiso garnish, or highball-style in a 'sonic' — gin, soda water, and tonic."
12. Hayman's Old Tom
Hayman's Old Tom Gin.
Courtesy of Hayman's
What's neat about Hayman's Old Tom Gin is that it's distilled in a style that dates back to the 19th century, which leaves it tasting slightly sweet.
"The result," said Newman, "is that the citrus reads a bit like candied lemon peel, but it's not too heavy-handed." She recommends this to mix a Martinez cocktail.
13. Silent Pool Gin
Silent Pool Gin.
Courtesy of Silent Pool Gin
What stands out with Silent Pool Gin is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in a simple gin and tonic, or mixed in a variety of different cocktails. What's noticeable about this gin is the toned down juniper flavor, which allows for the 23 other botanicals to shine through.
"We tried [this gin] and loved it," said Piero Procida, director of food and beverage at The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills. "The distillation process is very well thought-out and specific to this gin and what is left is a very high quality gin, with a sweet floral-like nose and a savory flavor."
Procida features this cocktail in the hotel's signature drink, the London Calling, made with hibiscus liqueur, grapefruit, lemon, and agave.
14. The Botanist Islay Dry Gin
The Botanist Islay Dry Gin.
Courtesy of The Botanist
This particular gin hails from Scotland from Islay, an island typically known for its scotches. Made from 31 different botanicals, it is ranked as one of the highest quality gins in the world.
"You are going to find a big nose of citrus in this gin, with slight menthol and lots of floral qualities... with a nice, long, spicy finish," said Procida. "You are still going to find that typical juniper characteristic in this gin, but it certainly does not overpower the other flavors."
Procida says The Botanist is a favorite because it is a boutique-style gin that is all about quality and versatility. With so many different botanicals, it is easy to pair it with other ingredients to make several styles of cocktails.
What draws most people into Drumshanbo Gunpowder Gin is the name itself. "When I saw 'gunpowder,' all I could think of was the smell of firecrackers, but it intrigued me enough to taste it," said Procida. "The name itself is actually in reference to the gunpowder green tea from China, which is used as one of its botanicals and one of its predominant flavors."
Other ingredients include juniper from Macedonia, orris root from Morocco, cardamom from India, and others. Procida favors this gin, calling it "art in a bottle." "For a boutique hotel that enjoys exploring the world of craft ingredients, this gin is the closest thing to craft you will get," he said.
16. Sipsmith Gin
Sipsmith Gin.
Sipsmith Gin
Sipsmith Gin serves up a few different styles of gin. Its London Dry Gin is classic and bold, with floral notes on the nose, a strong juniper-forward taste, and a finish that hints of lemon. The Lemon Drizzle Gin is more sweet on the nose, with hints of vanilla and a licorice finish. The Zesty Orange Ginhas more of a tangy finish, with a hint of sweet cinnamon.
"When it comes to gin I prefer a classic, juniper forward London Dry style for icy cold martini. Sipsmith Gin is one of my favorites for everything from martinis and Negronis, to gin & tonics," said Prairie Rose, a Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET)-trained drinks writer and podcast host. "It has a classic blueprint, but with a sexy, fresh, and modern quality."
In this aerial photo released by Xinhua News Agency, rescue workers are seen near the site of a collapsed two-story restaurant in Xiangfen County of Linfen City, northern China's Shanxi Province, Saturday, Aug. 29, 2020.
Yang Chenguang/Xinhua via AP
Twenty-nine people died in northern China after a restaurant suddenly collapsed during a birthday party on Saturday, local authorities said.
An additional 28 people were injured, according to the Ministry of Emergency Management.
An investigation will be launched to uncover the cause of the incident.
BEIJING (AP) — Rescue efforts ended at a two-story restaurant in a northern Chinese village that collapsed during a local resident's 80th birthday celebration, leaving 29 people dead, authorities said Sunday.
The Ministry of Emergency Management said another 28 people were injured — seven of them seriously — when the building suddenly crumbled on Saturday.
There was no immediate word on what caused the collapse or on the fate of the birthday guest and other celebrants.
Hundreds of rescue workers using dogs, cranes, and high-tech sensors to search the rubble, lifting slabs of concrete in hopes of freeing survivors.
The official China Daily newspaper said the building collapsed at 9:40 a.m. Saturday. It said the Cabinet's Work Safety Commission would oversee the investigation into the accident's cause.
While China has seen major improvements in industrial safety, building standards are sometimes ignored, particularly in rural areas such as Shanxi province's Xiangfen county, about 630 kilometers (400 miles) southwest of Beijing, where the restaurant was located.
The region lies in the heart of China's coal country, where thousands of miners have died in explosions, collapses and floods over the years.
US military activity around Norway this month reflects the continuing strategic value of NATO's northernmost member, even as the Trump administration changes the US footprint there and across Europe.
The US and Norwegian militaries have longstanding ties, but military activity in the area has increased as the region grows more accessible and tensions with Russia remain high. Mid-August saw a flurry of such activity by the US.
Sailors on the fo'c'sle of US Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt as it pulls into Tromsø, Norway, August 17, 2020.
US Navy/MCS Seaman Austin G. Collins
On August 17, guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt stopped in Tromsø in northern Norway after a 50-day patrol in the high north, where the Roosevelt and other US ships "have received steadfast support from Norway," the Navy said.
On August 21, the West Coast-based attack submarine USS Seawolf made a brief stop near Tromsø after traveling across the planet to operate around Europe.
The Navy rarely announces the whereabouts of its subs — especially one of the sophisticated Seawolf class, designed to take on the Soviets — indicating this was likely meant as a message.
"The arrival of Seawolf compliments our already robust undersea warfare capabilities and demonstrates our continued commitment to providing maritime security and deterrence throughout the region," Rear Adm. Anthony Carullo, commander of the Naples-based Submarine Group 8, said in a release.
Norwegian F-16s train with US Air Force B-52s, August 2020.
Norwegian Armed Forces
The action wasn't limited to the sea. Norwegian fighter jets trained with US Air Force B-52 bombers before the bombers' August 22 arrival in the UK for a bomber task force rotation.
"Training outside the US enables aircrew and airmen to become familiar with other theaters and airspace" and to build on existing skills and relationships, an Air Force spokesperson said in an email.
Flight trackers appeared to show the bombers flying north from North Dakota, traveling over Greenland and through the Arctic before approaching the UK over the Norwegian Sea. The Air Force spokesperson declined to comment on the bombers' route, citing operational security.
'We are wherever we want'
Norwegian soldiers patrol Norway's side of the border with Russia, in Pasvik valley, Finnmark county, Norway, October 23, 2019.
REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov
As Russian military capabilities in the Arctic eroded after the Cold War, NATO's focus on the region "rapidly faded," said Heather Conley, senior vice president for Europe, Eurasia, and the Arctic at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Interest in the Arctic has grown recently as it becomes more accessible. Russia has refocused on the region as economic and military imperative "for well over the past decade," Conley said. "The US and NATO have only recently arrived at the rediscovery phase about two years ago."
The US has "grown steadily concerned" about Russia's moves, particularly its submarine activity in the North Atlantic as well as flights farther south by its long-range bombers, Conley said. The US has increased its Arctic activity, including military exercises not done since the Cold War.
The Russian submarine K-560 Severodvinsk.
Russian Ministry of Defense
With the recent activity around Norway, "the US is signaling, with its NATO partners, that it will deter and defend NATO's northern flank and the North Atlantic," Conley said.
Actions by one side in one part of the Arctic are often matched by the other in another part. Conley pointed to a recent Russian military exercise near Alaska as context for events around Norway.
A Russian sub that surfaced during those drills was "a signal" that "we are wherever we want," a former Russian navy chief of staff told Russian state media.
There is uncertainty on both sides about the other's intentions in the Arctic, and a proper forum is "urgently" needed to provide transparency for increasing military activity there, Conley said.
NATO's eyes and ears
US Marine 1st Lt. Aidan Frombach conducts patrolling drills during cold-weather training in Porsangmoen, Norway, February 20, 2017.
US Marine Corps/Lance Cpl. Victoria Ross
The increase in US activity in Europe's high north comes as the US revises its military footprint around the continent.
In July, top US defense officials announced that thousands of US troops stationed in Germany would return home or move elsewhere in Europe, saying the moves improved operational efficiency and positioning.
Critics argued the changes didn't necessarily improve readiness and pointed instead to President Donald Trump's disdain for Germany as a motive, which Trump himself basically confirmed.
The US Marine Corps also said this month that it was adjusting its presence in Norway, ending the back-to-back rotations of several hundred Marines that it has conducted since 2017 and shifting to an "episodic" presence aligned with military exercises there.
The risk of a conflict starting in the high north is still considered low, but Norway and its neighbors have noted increasing Russian military activity, particularly its tests of new weapons.
Norwegian soldiers load missiles into a NASAMS air-defense system launcher during winter exercise Joint Viking 2017 in Finnmark, Norway, March 2017.
Norwegian Ministry of Defense
"As a close neighbor to Russia in the north, Norway is witnessing an increasingly potent Russian military capability," Tone Skogen, state secretary at the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, said in June.
Russian exercises have shown "how Russia is increasingly coming closer to our coasts [and] how they are increasingly farther south," Skogen said.
With those exercises, Skogen added, Russia has been able "to more or less successfully demonstrate" an ability to close off the Scandinavian Peninsula to protect its military installations on the nearby Kola Peninsula, where the powerful Northern Fleet is based.
"Norway has and continues to be vital to the protection of Europe and North America through the 'avenue of approach' from the High North," Conley said. "Norway is NATO's 'sentry' in the North and its eyes and ears to detect Russian military activity near and around the Kola Peninsula and Russia's Northern Fleet."
Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden delivers remarks after meeting with Pennsylvania families who have benefited from the Affordable Care Act on June 25, 2020 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images
Democratic nominee Joe Biden challenged President Donald Trump in a lengthy statement on the violence that broke out Saturday night at a Portland, Oregon where Trump supporters and Black Lives Matter protesters clashed.
Biden flatly condemned the violence at the protest as "unacceptable ... whether on the left or the right," and called for Trump to "do the same."
"He may believe tweeting about law and order makes him strong — but his failure to call on his supporters to stop seeking conflict shows just how weak he is," Biden said.
Democratic nominee Joe Biden issued a statement on the violence that broke out in Portland, Oregon, Saturday night that culminated in a man being shot and killed after supporters of President Donald Trump clashed with Black Lives Matter demonstrators in the city's downtown.
In the lengthy statement, Biden flatly condemned the violence at the protest as "unacceptable ... whether on the left or the right."
"I challenge Donald Trump to do the same," the statement reads. "It does not matter if you find the political views of your opponents abhorrent, any loss of life is a tragedy."
Biden continued on to warn against becoming a "country at war with ourselves" that "accepts the killing of fellow Americans who do not agree with you."
"But that is the America that President Trump wants us to be, the America he believes we are," the statement says.
Biden pointed to Trump's divisive rhetoric, which most recently included a flood of tweets on Sunday taking aim at Portland, particularly Democratic Mayor Ted Wheeler, and demanding that the National Guard deploy to the city in response to protesters.
"What does President Trump think will happen when he continues to insist on fanning the flames of hate and division in our society and using the politics of fear to whip up his supporters? He is recklessly encouraging violence," Biden wrote.
"He may believe tweeting about law and order makes him strong – but his failure to call on his supporters to stop seeking conflict shows just how weak he is," the statement says.
The statement then said the "job of a president is to lower the temperature. To bring people who disagree with one another together. To make life better for all Americans, not just those who agree with us, support us, or vote for us."
Biden's deputy campaign manager Kate Bedingfield echoed the statement's pressure on Trump in an appearance on "Fox News Sunday," where she accused the president of "inciting violence" by encouraging aggression among his supporters in the protests of recent months.
White House chief of staff Mark Meadows defended Trump's response in an appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press," where host Chuck Todd pressed the aide on the president's refusal to condemn violence among his supporters.
"The president's on the side of law enforcement and the rule of law," Meadows said.
"These are people that every single night conduct violent acts," Meadows said of demonstrators. "And it is in Democrat cities. You know, you want to talk about Donald Trump's America. Most of Donald Trump's America is peaceful."
"The FAA supports innovation that is beneficial to the public, especially during a health or weather-related crisis," an agency spokesperson said in a statement to Business Insider.
Peter Endig/picture alliance via Getty Images
The Federal Aviation Administration has issued Amazon permission to begin conducting delivery drone operations.
Amazon's Prime Air drone project has been in the works since 2013.
The online retail giant received permission to begin testing drone deliveries in June 2019.
"Amazon Prime Air's concept uses autonomous UAS to safely and efficiently deliver packages to customers," a FAA spokesperson said in a statement sent to Business Insider.
The Federal Aviation Administration will allow Amazon's fleet of Prime Air delivery drones to take flight.
A FAA spokesperson told Business Insider that the administration issued Amazon Prime Air its certificate on August 29. The Part 135 air carrier certificate allows Amazon to use "unmanned aircraft systems," or UAS, in a commercial operation.
"Amazon Prime Air's concept uses autonomous UAS to safely and efficiently deliver packages to customers," the spokesperson said in a statement sent to Business Insider. "The FAA's role is to ensure that any UAS operation is performed safely. The FAA supports innovation that is beneficial to the public, especially during a health or weather-related crisis."
The certificate will allow Amazon to dive into operating a commercial drone delivery service, which has been in the works since 2013. The FAA gave Amazon permission to test its drones in the US in June 2019. FAA regulations hold that "Part 135 certification is the only path for small drones to carry the property of another for compensation beyond visual line of sight."
In response to Business Insider's request for comment, an Amazon representative sent a statement from Amazon Prime Air Vice President David Carbon.
"This certification is an important step forward for Prime Air and indicates the FAA's confidence in Amazon's operating and safety procedures for an autonomous drone delivery service that will one day deliver packages to our customers around the world," Carbon said. "We will continue to develop and refine our technology to fully integrate delivery drones into the airspace, and work closely with the FAA and other regulators around the world to realize our vision of 30-minute delivery."
Amazon's electric drones are installed with a sense-and-avoid system to avert crashes. To date, the company's drone fleet has put in thousands of flight hours. Despite its new certification, Amazon will not be delivering packages to consumers yet. There is no word when its fleet of drones will be scaled and put to work fulfilling orders.
Amazon is also not the only player in the delivery drones game. In July, regional grocery chain Rouses Markets teamed up with last-mile delivery drone startup Deuce Drone for test flights in Alabama. The FAA has additionally issued Part 135 air carrier certificates to Alphabet's Wing Aviation and UPS' Flight Forward.
Staff have said that CVS has outright ignored illnesses and exposure incidents.
Irene Jiang/Business Insider
A leaked CVS email told staff to not inform patients that their prescriptions were filled by someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
The Georgia CVS technician who shared the email with Business Insider said the company threatened to discipline or fire staff if they told customers about confirmed COVID-19 cases.
At least 14 CVS employees across the US have told Business Insider that CVS has a pattern of bullying staff and flagrantly disregarding the safety of customers.
CVS spokesperson Michael DeAngelis told Business Insider, "It is not our policy to prohibit our pharmacies from informing patients if their prescription was filled when an employee who tested positive for COVID-19 worked in the pharmacy."
A leaked email reveals that CVS Health instructed employees not to tell patients that their medications had been filled by someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
A Georgia CVS technician shared the internal email with Business Insider that asked employees to track down which prescriptions were filled by a COVID-positive employee and to pull them from the shelves. However, the email also emphasized that if a patient had already picked up one of those prescriptions, the standard policy is to "NOT make an outreach call."
When asked if the instructions given in the email were in line with CVS's official policies, CVS spokesperson Michael DeAngelis told Business Insider, "It is not our policy to prohibit our pharmacies from informing patients if their prescription was filled when an employee who tested positive for COVID-19 worked in the pharmacy."
The technician said staff were threatened with disciplinary action or termination if they told customers that someone in the store had tested positive for COVID-19.
"We were told not to contact anyone or let anyone know," the technician told Business Insider.
At least 14 CVS employees across the country have reached out to Business Insider saying that CVS has a pattern of "bullying" staff as well as flagrantly disregarding the safety of both staff and customers. Business Insider granted anonymity to all sources for job security reasons, and has privately confirmed their identities.
Staff have said that CVS has ignored incidents of potential coronavirus exposure and forced employees to work while sick. DeAngelis confirmed to Business Insider last week that it is CVS's policy to allow employees to work after exposure to someone who tested positive.
DeAngelis said CVS allows asymptomatic employees to work if they wear surgical masks, self-monitor for symptoms, and if their temperature is taken before and after every shift for 14 days after exposure.
Workers are also allowed to request time off to quarantine if exposed, DeAngelis added. But after the Georgia technician's coworker showed symptoms and tested positive, staff who'd worked in close proximity with the coworker were instructed to not get tested "because they couldn't have anyone else out of work," the technician said.
Gag rules where employers prohibit workers from speaking out about COVID-19 cases are becoming common, Bloomberg reported. Workers often live in fear of being punished or fired for informing customers of a COVID-19 case at their place of work.
"In many places, workplace exposures are driving the pandemic," David Michaels, an epidemiologist and professor at George Washington University, told Bloomberg.
CVS later clarified to Business Insider that its policy is to "allow" employees who are exposed to a COVID-positive individual to work, but that employees that have tested positive for COVID-19 and are asymptomatic are put on paid leave for at least 10 days. The article has been updated to reflect this clarification.
Days before TikTok is expected to announce a potential sale of its US operations, Chinese officials implemented new restrictions that could throw a wrench in the company's plans.
The new rules would require TikTok to obtain a license from the Chinese government before selling tech to a US company, potentially giving China veto power over the sale.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has said TikTok will be banned if it isn't sold to a US company by mid-September.
Here's what the latest developments could mean for the future of TikTok.
As TikTok looks for a buyer to avoid being banned in the US, it now faces a new obstacle — this time from the Chinese government.
TikTok, which is owned by China-based ByteDance, has scrambled to rapidly reach a deal to sell its US operations after President Donald Trump threatened to ban the app by mid-September if it's still owned by a Chinese company. The app is reportedly weighing a joint offer from Microsoft and Walmart, as well as an offer from Oracle.
Now, regulations imposed by Chinese officials could make it harder for ByteDance to organize a sale.
China announced on Friday that it would implement restrictions on how tech can be exported, requiring companies to obtain a government-issued license for a sale. The regulations could give Chinese authorities veto power over a potential TikTok deal.
Here's what the new restrictions could mean for the future of TikTok.
China's new restrictions target TikTok's most valuable asset: its algorithm
While China already enforced a list of "forbidden and restricted technology exports," it updated them last week to include "personalized information recommendation services based on data analysis."
TikTok's algorithm is one of its prized assets — its proprietary "For You" formula recommends videos unique to each user based on an intricate web of weighted signals.
A Chinese government trade adviser told the state's Xinhua News Agency on Saturday that selling algorithms to firms in other countries would be considered a "restricted technology export" under the new restrictions.
The restrictions could delay a TikTok sale, running down the clock in advance of Trump's ban
Under China's new regulations, a TikTok sale wouldn't be prohibited — rather, ByteDance would need to obtain a license from the Chinese government before finalizing the sale.
But that process could take up to 30 days, according to the regulations. Meanwhile, Trump has set a mid-September deadline for a potential sale, threatening to ban TikTok in the US if a deal isn't reached by then.
However, as the Financial Times notes, the new Chinese restrictions could give ByteDance a reasonable path to argue for an extension of Trump's deadline, potentially buying it more time to explore its options.
China's move extends far beyond TikTok — it's the latest escalation in an ongoing trade war
The new regulations are in part an extension of the growing trade war between China and the US.
The Trump administration has previously blacklisted telecoms hardware maker Huawei, a Chinese company with far more market value than ByteDance.
Analysts told the Financial Times that China's latest restrictions could give the country a leg up in future trade negotiations. Feng Chucheng, a political risk analyst at Plenum, told the FT that China wants to signal that it doesn't approve of the TikTok sale, "but they don't want to trigger another US retaliation."
US companies might be wary of signing a deal to buy TikTok if there's a chance China will veto it
The slew of companies jockeying to buy TikTok's US operations may reconsider their offers now that Chinese regulations could pose a roadblock to a deal.
ByteDance and its primary suitors — including Microsoft, Walmart, and Oracle — slowed down negotiations this weekend in the wake of China's announcement, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Nevertheless, ByteDance reportedly chose a buyer as of Monday morning and is expected to announce a deal this week, CNBC reported.
FILE PHOTO: White House Counsel Don McGahn listens during the confirmation hearing for U.S. Supreme Court nominee Kavanaugh on Capitol Hill in Washington
Reuters
A three-judge federal appeals court panel ruled on Monday that the House Judiciary Committee cannot sue to enforce its subpoena to former White House counsel Don McGahn.
The panel's ruling is a massive blow to the legislative branch's subpoena power and said Congress must first pass a law authorizing such subpoenas before suing to have them enforced.
"Because the Committee lacks a cause of action to enforce its subpoena, this lawsuit must be dismissed," the 2-1 ruling said.
The House has been trying to compel McGahn's testimony about his knowledge of President Donald Trump's behavior surrounding the Russia probe since the spring of 2019 and will almost certainly appeal the ruling.
A federal appeals court ruled on Monday that the House Judiciary Committee does not have the authority to enforce its subpoena to former White House counsel Don McGahn.
The three-judge panel ruled that Congress must first pass a law authorizing the legislative body to enforce subpoenas.
"Because the Committee lacks a cause of action to enforce its subpoena, this lawsuit must be dismissed," the 2-1 ruling said. "We note that this decision does not preclude Congress (or one of its chambers) from ever enforcing a subpoena in federal court; it simply precludes it from doing so without first enacting a statute authorizing such a suit."
Monday's ruling is a significant setback for the House of Representatives, which has been trying to force McGahn to testify since the spring of 2019 about his knowledge of President Donald Trump's behavior during the Russia probe. McGahn told the special counsel Robert Mueller's team Trump sought to obstruct the investigation into Russia's election interference several times.
This is the second time the appeals court panel has denied the House Judiciary Committee's request to compel McGahn's testimony.
However, last month, the full circuit court bench in a 7-2 ruling tossed out the three-judge panel's ruling on the matter and said the House had grounds to sue to force McGahn to testify. But it added that McGahn could still challenge the House's subpoena on other grounds and remanded the case to the three-judge panel for review.
"The judgment of the district court is reversed, and the case is remanded for further proceedings consistent with this opinion," Monday's ruling said.
The House Judiciary Committee will almost certainly appeal the decision and again ask the full court's bench to reexamine the case.
An empty parking lot is shown at a closed JCPenney store in Roseville, Michigan, Friday, May 8, 2020.
AP Photo/Paul Sancya
A lawyer for JCPenney said in a bankruptcy court hearing Monday that discussions with three bidders for the business had reached a "stalemate."
The department store chain's top lenders are now set to place their own bid.
"We can no longer stand idly by and allow for negotiating postures to stand in the way of 70,000 jobs and our vendor base," Kirkland & Ellis' Joshua Sussberg, attorney for JCPenney, said during the hearing.
A number of additional JCPenney stores will also be slated to close.
The fight to keep JCPenney alive is moving in a different direction.
A lawyer for the bankrupt department store chain said in a hearing Monday that discussions with three bidders to take over the business had reached a "stalemate," and that the company's top lenders are putting together their own bid. The sale is expected to be complete in the next 30 days.
Three separate bidders — private-equity firm Sycamore Partners, Saks Fifth Avenue owner Hudson's Bay, and a joint venture between mall owners Simon Property Group and Brookfield Property Partners — were reported to be in the running to acquire JCPenney out of bankruptcy. Those talks have been confidential.
Kirkland & Ellis' Joshua Sussberg, attorney for JCPenney, said in Monday's hearing that discussions with these bidders were going well as recently as this weekend. But negotiations quickly took a turn.
"Certain negotiating postures and egos, however, have not necessarily been set aside over the course of the last two weeks, because it's failing. Our drive in the red zone stalled," Sussberg said. "All while the business has suffered, as our vendors, stand by with bated breath, waiting for an announcement, at the same time, holding inventory and the word that JCPenney will in fact back be around for the foreseeable future."
Sussberg continued: "While it is possible that one of the bidders comes back to the transaction, we can no longer stand idly by and allow for negotiating postures to stand in the way of 70,000 jobs and our vendor base."
In an order on August 19th, Judge David Jones urged all parties to push egos aside and complete negotiations as quickly as possible.
JCPenney's top lenders include H/2 Capital Partners, Silver Point Capital, Brigade Capital Management, and Sculptor Capital Management.
Sussberg added that a number of additional JCPenney stores will close.
United Auto Workers union members picket at the General Motors Hamtramck plant for the sixth week of their national strike against General Motors on October 25, 2019 in Hamtramck, Michigan.
Bill Pugliano/Getty Images
Protests against police brutality across the nation have forced businesses to have difficult conversations about diversity and race.
Many companies and corporations responded to the movement with empty statements and actions that won't yield results.
An actually effective way for workers to curb racism and discrimination in the workplace is by forming a union.
Anthony DiMauro is a New York-based writer.
This is an opinion column. The thoughts expressed are those of the author.
The grotesque scenes of police brutality and subsequent protests this summer have forced every boardroom and business across the country to confront the subject of racial equality.
In response to this sudden surge in calls for civil rights. Businesses have removed stereotypical product labels off of packaging, canceled or edited episodes of TV and movies, and introduced offices and positions explicitly for the purpose of diversity. These decisions have all been presented as steps towards equality.
However, none of these relatively minor moves are truly effective at combating the culture of racism in corporate America. In order to truly achieve these aims in workplaces and businesses, workers need to unionize.
Unions can help achieve the goal of equality
There is growing evidence that unionization can be an effective tool in helping to achieve racial equality in the workplace.
A recent study out of the American Journal for Political Science has found that "gaining union membership reduced racial resentment among white workers." Unions have also reduced the racial wealth gap between white workers and workers of color. Moreover, compared to non-union workers, union workers attain higher wages on average.
So what's driving and motivating less racial animus in labor unions?
Professors Paul Frymer of Princeton University and Jacob Grumbach from the University of Washington — the authors of the aforementioned study — claim that the reason for this reduced racial animus is due — at least in part — to various incentives. Some of these incentives come from the straightforward fact that the union needs to mitigate racial resentment to achieve organization growth and goals.
Others include increasingly diverse labor markets, which necessitate the recruitment and success of Black workers in order to achieve a majority membership. Still others come from ideological and political incentives attached to political efforts, which motivate "interracial solidarity" such that the union and the party support each other.
Historically, unionizing efforts often joined civil rights organizations and activists. Since the New Deal, labor organizations like the Congress of Industrial Organizations (and eventually AFL-CIO) have integrated Black laborers into the unionizing movement. Unions worked with Philip Randolph in the 1950s and Martin Luther King in the 1960s, when corporations were even more indifferent to the cause of racial equality.
In a 2013 interview with NPR, University of Pennsylvania professor of history and sociology Thomas Sugrue describes labor unions as "critical allies" of the Civil Rights Movements in the United States, and that labor union organizations "believed that Black workers and their fate was intertwined with that of white workers; that questions of economic security and anti-discrimination were joined at the hip. And so they believed that their fate depended on opening up opportunities for African-Americans in the labor market."
That is, there is a deep history of support for eliminating racism within labor unions, and this recent AJPS study confirmed the obvious: labor unionization and focus on the labor movement reduces focus on racial differences and animus.
Making real change
It's clear from the corporate world's decisions on corporate mascots and minor changes that many businesses are not interested in meaningful strides toward effectuating change in America.
These small, cosmetic tweaks are the hallmarks of opportunists seeking cheap hits. We need to reorient our conversation toward the labor movement to emphasize the importance of labor unions in shaping socio-political attitudes — including racial ones.
Public shaming and feel good slogans are distractions compared to workers solidarity irrespective of racial category.
Yet, we shouldn't be surprised that companies find these superficial slogans more appealing than supporting actual efforts to address racism. After all, slogans catch the attention and praise of corporate media, and they don't hurt their bottom line.
The labor movement can be interracial and cross-cultural — everyone is in the same position, part of the same effort. The labor movement might be one part of the cure to our current moment. Let's hope people start catching on.
Anthony DiMauro is a New York-based writer. His work has appeared in The San Francisco Chronicle, The Orange County Register, The National Interest and elsewhere. You can follow him on Twitter @AnthonyMDiMauro.
How to find which version of iOS is installed on your iPhone
1. On your iPhone, start the Settings app and then tap "General."
2. Tap "Software Update."
3. Here you can see your current iOS version, and check if there is an update available and ready to install. If an update is available, you'll see it here and can tap to start the update.
The "Software Update" page in your Settings app will tell you if there are software updates waiting.
Dave Johnson/Business Insider
Another way to see your iOS version is to start the Settings app, then tap "General" and "About."
The "About" page shows a variety of details about your device in addition to the iOS version.
Dave Johnson/Business Insider
The "About" page lists all kinds of information about your device, including the software version, serial number, and details about how much storage space is free. You can't see if there's a software update available from this screen, though, which is why this page may not be as handy as the "Software Update" page.