For the first time in months, average new daily coronavirus infections have fallen below 100,000 in the United States. The Washington Post looks at possible reasons for this decline. And NPR speaks with an epidemiologist who warns that the country still has a long road ahead. A Marshall Project investigation into the use of police dogs finds a city where they are regularly unleashed against Black teens. A record-breaking wave of extreme cold has turned deadly and is threatening COVID-19 vaccination progress. USA Today looks at the impact. Even with bars closed and no parade, folks in New Orleans are finding ways to celebrate Mardi Gras. The Washington Post describes how some residents are decorating their homes as parade floats, in the first “Yardi Gras.”

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.