Good news? In my Monday Bwoglines? In 2020? It’s more likely than you’d think.

Happening in the world: German company Pfizer announced preliminary results of their COVID-19 vaccine that suggest 90% efficacy, putting the vaccine theoretically on par with robust vaccines such as the one against measles. Though results have yet to be peer-reviewed and the trial is ongoing, the announcement bodes well for the hopes of an effective COVID-19 vaccine and for Pfizer’s vaccine competitors, some of whom are using similar mRNA technology. (NYT)

Happening in the US: Alex Trebek, the long-time host of Jeopardy!, passed away yesterday at the age of 80 after a long fight with pancreatic cancer. Trebek had hosted Jeopardy! since 1984 and became a staple of American television. His passing prompted an outburst of tributes on social media and news outlets. (BBC)

Happening in NYC: The Department of Education has announced their plans on how classrooms will adapt for colder weather during a pandemic, particularly how schools will be kept warm while maintaining sufficient ventilation to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The plan outlines air purifiers, space heaters, and open windows as ways to keep air flowing. The announcement comes after several NYC teachers complained of excessively chilly classrooms, with some students having to learn in rooms at 48 degrees Fahrenheit. (Gothamist)

Happening in our community: Have you ever wondered why your mother cries at Jason Isbell’s “If We Were Vampires”? No? Well, even if not, you can find out the answer at the Presidential Scholars in Society and Neuroscience’s talk titled “How Music Moves Us: Exploring the Connection Between Music and Emotions,” happening today from 2 to 3:30 pm. Speakers at the event include Elvira Brattico, a professor of neuroscience at Aarhus University, the composer Chanda Dancy, and Anna Huang, a resident at Google Magenta. You can register for the event and learn more here.

Happening in my mind: I just called my mother out for crying to an actual bittersweet song like “If We Were Vampires” as if I wasn’t happily sobbing to “Party in the USA” this Saturday.

Image via Flickr