mercurynews--2020-03-03--What we learned from SF Giants’ loss vs. Rangers: Tyler Beede’s elbow acts up, Logan Webb steps up

SCOTTSDALE , Ariz. — Giants manager Gabe Kapler sees his starting rotation beginning to take shape .
You can pretty much pencil in Johnny Cueto , Jeff Samardzija , Drew Smyly and Kevin Gausman as starters one through four , in one order or another .
But the battle for the fifth spot is well under way .
Right-handers Logan Webb and Tyler Beede each made their second appearances of the spring in a 6-5 loss to the Rangers , but only Webb pitched more than one inning .
That ’ s because Beede started to feel tightness in his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gabe Kapler said he will undergo scans Tuesday night , then get a prognosis .
Webb , regarded as San Francisco ’ s top pitching prospect , got the starting nod and pitched into the third inning .
He completed his outing by striking out Texas left fielder Willie Calhoun on a changeup .
Wandy Peralta finished the inning , and Beede entered to begin the fourth .
But that would be the only frame he threw on Tuesday .
Beede struggled to locate , issuing a walk to Blake Swihart and falling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fed Garcia a steady diet of 95-mph fastballs , then on a 2-2 count got him to chase at an offspeed pitch up in the zone for his one strikeout .
The final lines for the two front-runners : Webb – 2 1/3 innings , 3 hits , 1 run ( earned ) , 1 walk , 1 strikeout ; Beede – 1 inning , 1 hit , 1 walk , 1 strikeout Webb said he may still be shaking off the spring jitters , admitting to being a little too amped on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I was trying to work on some stuff in my lower half , ” Webb said .
“ They don ’ t want me thinking about too much out there .
Overall I felt pretty good out there.
” Webb ’ s one run allowed came on a solo home run by Isiah Kiner-Falefa , who took an inside fastball and hooked it down the right-field line .
Offseason in Arizona pays off for Webb The Giants opted not to send Webb to the Arizona Fall League after finishing 2019 with eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spent his offseason in Arizona , anyway .
Webb worked closely with the Giants ’ coordinator of pitching science , Matt Daniels , to overhaul his two-seam fastball and add a cutter to his repertoire .
As part of that , Webb worked with weighted baseballs to add velocity .
“ My fiancee ’ s here for school , so I wanted to be down here , ” Webb said .
“ And it ’ s easy access to the field everyday , trainers everyday.
” He pointed to a couple cutters that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it on the rushed delivery .
Although it ’ s new to his repertoire , confidence isn ’ t so much the issue as simply refining the pitch .
“ But overall I ’ m happy with the outing , especially with maybe not my best stuff , ” Webb said .
“ I want to work on those things so I can be the best version of myself.
” Aggressive on the bases , selective at the plate Kapler has made it no secret this spring that he wants to emphasize the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s asked the team ’ s veterans to take a leading role .
Evan Longoria encapsulated exactly what Kapler is looking for when , on Brandon Belt ’ s flyball out to center field , he tagged up at first base and advanced to second .
The next play , Buster Posey hit a sharp single through the middle to bring home Longoria .
“ I thought Evan Longoria ’ s baserunning the second time through was excellent , ” Kapler said .
“ Obviously the big tag up play , but then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up the middle to score a big run for us .
One of the themes that we ’ ve seen throughout camp is high quality baserunning , in particular from our veterans , which sets the tone for all of our young , impressionable players.
” At the plate , Kapler and the coaching staff have emphasized being “ selectively aggressive.
” “ That means when the pitch is not in the tunnel that we can drive , we ’ re going to lay off of it , ” Kapler explained Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ s game , Zach Green made one of the best examples yet of that approach paying off , laying off a two-strike slider on the corner .
The next pitch , he drove over the right-center field wall .
On Tuesday , we saw the other side of that coin .
Steven Duggar didn ’ t give in to a 2-2 curveball from Rangers starter Jordan Lyles .
But on the next pitch , he laid off a pitch on the corner and was rung up by home-plate umpire Kerwin Danley .
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Here ’ s how they could impact the game .
Buster @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind the plate .
Rangers runners challenged him twice , and he was up to the challenge both times — though it only resulted in one out .
After his single in the second , Adolis Garcia took off from first .
He was halfway to second by the time Posey received the pitch , but Posey was already halfway out of his crouch by then , too .
In one fluid motion , he caught , transferred and fired a strike to Brandon Crawford to throw out Garcia on what looked to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fourth , Posey ’ s throw was so on-target that the crowd didn ’ t even realize the pitch had resulted in a walk , negating Posey ’ s bullet .
They let the umpire have it as Blake Swihart jogged to first base and Isiah Kiner-Falefa stood on second , a would-be caught-stealing victim if not for ball four .
They may not have known it when Yapson Gomez took the mound in the fifth inning , but the fans at Scottsdale Stadium were in for a treat .
So too were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dugout , apparently .
Gomez , 26 , hadn ’ t pitched more than eight innings above A-ball , but he put on a show in his inning of work against the Rangers .
Almost akin to Cueto , Gomez showed a variety of funky deliveries and even quick-pitched a batter .
“ We had some excited coaches on the bench when Gomez came into the game , ” Kapler said .
“ I haven ’ t seen all of the interesting antics , but that was certainly one of the highlights of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top , Gomez got a pair of punchouts and retired the side 1-2-3 .
“ It was a lot of fun for everybody in the dugout and I ’ m sure it was a moment he won ’ t soon forget , ” Kapler said .
What ’ s next for the Giants ?
The Giants are back under the lights Wednesday , with a pitching matchup deserving of primetime .
We may get a preview of opening day , with Johnny Cueto slated to face off against Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ innings , or about 45 pitches .
Also penciled in to throw Wednesday are : Tyson Ross , Sam Coonrod , Jerry Blevins , Sam Selman , Dany Jimenez and Jandel Gustave .
Hunter Pence will be back in the lineup at DH .

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Giants manager Gabe Kapler sees his starting rotation beginning to take shape. You can pretty much pencil in Johnny Cueto, Jeff Samardzija, Drew Smyly and Kevin Gausman as starters one through four, in one order or another.
But the battle for the fifth spot is well under way. Right-handers Logan Webb and Tyler Beede each made their second appearances of the spring in a 6-5 loss to the Rangers, but only Webb pitched more than one inning.
That’s because Beede started to feel tightness in his elbow while throwing his curveball. Manager Gabe Kapler said he will undergo scans Tuesday night, then get a prognosis.
Webb, regarded as San Francisco’s top pitching prospect, got the starting nod and pitched into the third inning. He completed his outing by striking out Texas left fielder Willie Calhoun on a changeup. Wandy Peralta finished the inning, and Beede entered to begin the fourth. But that would be the only inning he threw on Tuesday.
Beede struggled to locate, issuing a walk to Blake Swihart and falling behind on Adolis Garcia. But he fed Garcia a steady diet of 95-mph fastballs, then on a 2-2 count got him to chase at an offspeed pitch up in the zone for his one strikeout.
The final lines for the two front-runners: Webb: 2 1/3 innings, 3 hits, 1 run (earned), 1 walk, 1 strikeout; Beede: 1 inning, 1 hit, 1 walk, 1 strikeout
Webb said he may still be shaking off the spring jitters, admitting to being a little too amped on the mound and rushing his delivery.
“I was trying to work on some stuff in my lower half,” Webb said. “They don’t want me thinking about too much out there. Overall I felt pretty good out there.”
Webb’s one run allowed came on a solo home run by Isiah Kiner-Falefa, who took an inside fastball and hooked it down the right-field line.
Offseason in Arizona pays off for Webb
The Giants opted not to send Webb to the Arizona Fall League after finishing 2019 with eight starts in San Francisco. But he spent his offseason in Arizona, anyway.
Webb worked closely with the Giants’ coordinator of pitching science, Matt Daniels, to overhaul his two-seam fastball and add a cutter to his repertoire. As part of that, Webb worked with weighted baseballs to add velocity.
“My fiancee’s here for school, so I wanted to be down here,” Webb said. “And it’s easy access to the field everyday, trainers everyday.”
He pointed to a couple cutters that he felt he left up, blaming it on the rushed delivery. Although it’s new to his repertoire, confidence isn’t so much the issue as simply refining the pitch.
“But overall I’m happy with the outing, especially with maybe not my best stuff,” Webb said. “I want to work on those things so I can be the best version of myself.”
Aggressive on the bases, selective at the plate
Kapler has made it no secret this spring that he wants to emphasize the Giants’ baserunning, and he’s asked the team’s veterans to take a leading role.
Evan Longoria encapsulated exactly what Kapler is looking for when, on Brandon Belt’s flyball out to center field, he tagged up at first base and advanced to second. The next play, Buster Posey hit a sharp single through the middle to bring home Longoria.
“I thought Evan Longoria’s baserunning the second time through was excellent,” Kapler said. “Obviously the big tag up play, but then a really good jump on the single up the middle to score a big run for us. One of the themes that we’ve seen throughout camp is high quality baserunning, in particular from our veterans, which sets the tone for all of our young, impressionable players.”
At the plate, Kapler and the coaching staff have emphasized being “selectively aggressive.”
“That means when the pitch is not in the tunnel that we can drive, we’re going to lay off of it,” Kapler explained Monday.
In the fourth inning of Monday’s game, Zach Green made one of the best examples yet of that approach paying off, laying off a two-strike slider on the corner. The next pitch, he drove over the right-center field wall.
On Tuesday, we saw the other side of that coin. Steven Duggar didn’t give in to a 2-2 curveball from Rangers starter Jordan Lyles. But on the next pitch, he laid off a pitch on the corner and was rung up by home-plate umpire Kerwin Danley.
Posey on the money
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After his single in the second, Adolis Garcia took off from first. He was halfway to second by the time Posey received the pitch, but Posey was already halfway out of his crouch by then, too. In one fluid motion, he caught, transferred and fired a strike to Brandon Crawford to throw out Garcia on what looked to be a surefire steal.
In the fourth, Posey’s throw was so on-target that the crowd didn’t even realize the pitch had resulted in a walk, negating Posey’s bullet. They let the umpire have it as Blake Swihart jogged to first base and Isiah Kiner-Falefa stood on second, a would-be caught-stealing victim if not for ball four.
Funky fresh deliveries
They may not have known it when Yapson Gomez took the mound in the fifth inning, but the fans at Scottsdale Stadium were in for a treat. So too were the coaches in San Francisco’s dugout, apparently.
Gomez, 26, hadn’t pitched more than eight innings above A-ball, but he put on a show in his inning of work against the Rangers. Almost akin to Cueto, Gomez showed a variety of funky deliveries and even quick-pitched a batter.
“We had some excited coaches on the bench when Gomez came into the game,” Kapler said. “I haven’t seen all of the interesting antics, but that was certainly one of the highlights of the game.”
This windup 🤯🤷♂ pic.twitter.com/G2sBthWRmP — SF Giants on NBCS (@NBCSGiants) March 3, 2020
As the cherry on top, Gomez got a pair of punchouts and retired the side in order.
“It was a lot of fun for everybody in the dugout and I’m sure it was a moment he won’t soon forget,” Kapler said.
What’s next for the Giants?
The Giants are back under the lights Wednesday, with a pitching matchup deserving of primetime. We may get a preview of Opening Day, with Johnny Cueto slated to face off against Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers. Cueto is expected to go three innings, or about 45 pitches. Also penciled in to throw Wednesday are: Tyson Ross, Sam Coonrod, Jerry Blevins, Sam Selman, Dany Jimenez and Jandel Gustave. Hunter Pence will be back in the lineup at DH.


mercurynews--2020-03-03--Raiders linked to two high-profile free-agent cornerbacks

It will take big money in order to make big changes to the Raiders ’ struggling defense , which may explain why the team is reportedly pursuing the NFL ’ s two most expensive free-agent cornerbacks .
Byron Jones from the Cowboys is expected to set the new salary standard for cornerbacks , and the Broncos ’ Chris Harris Jr. is apparently looking to remain one of the game ’ s top 10 highest-paid corners when free agency officially beings on March 16 .
The Raiders , who need to solve their woes on pass defense , have already been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giving up the ninth-most points in the NFL ( 26.2 per game ) and ranking 30th in Football Outsiders ’ pass defense DVOA ( defense-adjusted value over average ) , Raiders general manager Mike Mayock hinted fixing their defense will be top priority .
“ We ’ ve got to get bigger , stronger , longer , faster .
Really what we ’ ve got to get is more dynamic , ” he told reporters last week at the NFL Combine .
“ We didn ’ t really make that many plays on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ball over on defense .
I could sit here and go into a hundred things .
We need to get better at all three levels at all 11 positions .
On one hand , that kind of helps , because both in the draft and free agency , we need help everywhere.
” That ’ s where guys like Jones and Harris come in .
The Raiders have a little more than $ 50 million in available cap space as they set to rebuild a squad that went a disappointing 7-9 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second-year cornerback Trayvon Mullen expected to man one side of the field , a big-time corner is needed .
Jones , a 27-year-old Pro Bowl shutdown corner , is widely thought to be looking for a contract with an average annual value of $ 16 million — which would top the Dolphins ’ Xavier Howard ’ s NFL-best $ 15 million AAV .
Dallas , though , is more focused on finding a way to keep both quarterback Dak Prescott and ex-Raider receiver Amari Cooper on long-term deals .
The Las Vegas Review-Journal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in on Jones , who is expected to draw interest from the Eagles , Giants , Texans and Washington .
Jones was mostly ignored by opposing quarterbacks in 2019 as he was targeted in coverage just 64 times as teams completed 53.1 percent of those passes .
He didn ’ t have an interception but had six passes defensed and 46 tackles while earning a 76.1 grade from Pro Football Focus .
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Bouye .
Harris , who turned down roughly his same $ 12.5 million salary he earned this past season , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Lions , Jets and Texans .
Harris , who will turn 31 this summer , has been a strong presence on the Broncos ’ defense for nine years .
He has at least two interceptions in seven of those seasons .

It will take big money in order to make big changes to the Raiders’ struggling defense, which may explain why the team is reportedly pursuing the NFL’s two most expensive free-agent cornerbacks.
Byron Jones from the Cowboys is expected to set the new salary standard for cornerbacks, and the Broncos’ Chris Harris Jr. is apparently looking to remain one of the game’s top 10 highest-paid corners when free agency officially beings on March 16. The Raiders, who need to solve their woes on pass defense, have already been linked to both of them.
After giving up the ninth-most points in the NFL (26.2 per game) and ranking 30th in Football Outsiders’ pass defense DVOA (defense-adjusted value over average), Raiders general manager Mike Mayock hinted fixing their defense will be top priority.
“We’ve got to get bigger, stronger, longer, faster. Really what we’ve got to get is more dynamic,” he told reporters last week at the NFL Combine. “We didn’t really make that many plays on defense. We didn’t turn the ball over on defense. I could sit here and go into a hundred things. We need to get better at all three levels at all 11 positions. On one hand, that kind of helps, because both in the draft and free agency, we need help everywhere.”
That’s where guys like Jones and Harris come in. The Raiders have a little more than $50 million in available cap space as they set to rebuild a squad that went a disappointing 7-9 in its final year in Oakland. With second-year cornerback Trayvon Mullen expected to man one side of the field, a big-time corner is needed.
Jones, a 27-year-old Pro Bowl shutdown corner, is widely thought to be looking for a contract with an average annual value of $16 million — which would top the Dolphins’ Xavier Howard’s NFL-best $15 million AAV. Dallas, though, is more focused on finding a way to keep both quarterback Dak Prescott and ex-Raider receiver Amari Cooper on long-term deals.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal reported the Raiders are expected to be in on Jones, who is expected to draw interest from the Eagles, Giants, Texans and Washington.
Jones was mostly ignored by opposing quarterbacks in 2019 as he was targeted in coverage just 64 times as teams completed 53.1 percent of those passes. He didn’t have an interception but had six passes defensed and 46 tackles while earning a 76.1 grade from Pro Football Focus.
Meanwhile, Denver7 Sports’ Troy Renck reported Tuesday that the Raiders are among five serious suitors for the 30-year-old Harris, who almost certainly won’t return to the Broncos after the team traded for Jacksonville cornerback A.J. Bouye. Harris, who turned down roughly his same $12.5 million salary he earned this past season, also has strong interest from the Cowboys, Lions, Jets and Texans.
Harris, who will turn 31 this summer, has been a strong presence on the Broncos’ defense for nine years. He has at least two interceptions in seven of those seasons.


mercurynews--2020-03-03--First look inside Westfield Valley Fair’s new Bloomingdale’s

Click here if you are unable to view this gallery on a mobile device .
It ’ s Tuesday morning , about 48 hours before the new Bloomingdale ’ s at Westfield Valley Fair officially opens to the public , but the upscale department store is buzzing with activity .
Blouses and dresses are being fitted onto mannequins , acres of lipstick and other cosmetics are being lined up in displays and the creases are being steamed out of sheets and pillowcases for the bedding displays on the third floor .
Hundreds of people are walking over the store ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which will no doubt be shined to a high-gloss again before the first customer walks in the door Thursday .
Welcome to the final moments of Valley Fair B.B .
— Before Bloomingdale ’ s .
The three-level , 150,000 square-foot store is the centerpiece of the shopping center ’ s $ 1.1 billion expansion , and it needs to satisfy both Valley Fair ’ s legions of shoppers and Bloomingdale ’ s loyalists — or , Loyallists , as its rewards program members are known — who may wonder if the Bay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after San Francisco and Stanford Shopping Center .
“ The two most important things to me are they leave having really enjoyed they experience — that we surprised them and delighted them along the way — and that they tell their friends , ” said Mark Sullivan , general manager Bloomingdale ’ s Valley Fair .
“ I want them to feel leaving they ’ ve had an exceptional in-store , high-end luxury experience.
” Oh , there ’ s no missing the “ high-end luxury ” part .
The ground floor is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , fragrances , fashion accessories and fine jewelry .
The shoe displays read like a fashion-show line-up with brands like Ferragamo , Dior , Jimmy Choo and Gucci .
But there ’ s also a lot of space devoted to running shoes , and you ’ ll find more activewear than you might normally find at a Bloomingdale ’ s.That ’ s all about research into the demographics in Silicon Valley , where people are generally more active than elsewhere , have the weather to be outdoors more often and , let ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good whether they ’ re at the gym or on hiking trails .
“ We know there is a shopper that lives outdoors , that lives in the gym and eats very healthy , and that ’ s accentuated in this store compared to other Bloomingdale ’ s , ” Sullivan said .
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• Kids learn about the science and tech behind a Sharks game • Valley Verde @ @ @ @ @ @ @ -ical eating challenge • New Potter the Otter exhibit opens at Children ’ s Discovery Museum A central set of escalators carries shoppers up to the second floor — ready-to-wear women ’ s and children ’ s clothing and accessories , as well as a serious selection of gowns and dresses perfect for prom .
Again , brands like Rebecca Taylor , Tory Burch and Rag & Bone pop out , along with exclusive Bloomingdale ’ s brands Aqua and Lini .
Things get manly as you head up to the third level @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s clothing and accessories and an extensive home department that includes a demonstration kitchen and a gorgeous but delicate display from crystal-maker Baccarat .
A truly impressive spectrum of towels in every possible shade lines a wall .
“ If you can ’ t find a towel in the color you want , it may not exist , ” Sullivan says .
And there ’ s the Carousel , a rotating , guest-curated pop-up shop available at only five other Bloomingdale ’ s .
“ World Bazaar , ” the current one running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by Karla Martinez , the editor-in-chief of Vogue Mexico and Latin America , and features different clothing items and accessories that have a cultural flavor to them .
Previous Carousel curators have included an actress from “ Disney ’ s The Lion King ” on Broadway and pro surfer Quincy Davis .
The spacious , well-lit design of the store isn ’ t strictly by-the-numbers , either .
There are giant California poppies here and there , and the words “ San Jose ” pop up as a design element throughout .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Bay Area feel later this month with the opening of AnQi , an Asian fusion restaurant from Chef Helene An .
Bloomingdale ’ s will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday morning before it opens to the public at 10 a.m. , but there ’ s a “ county fair ” -themed grand-opening preview party Wednesday night in partnership with the 49ers Foundation .
Other opening-week events will benefit the Silicon Valley Education Foundation , Save the Redwoods League , Family Giving Tree , JDRF and the Child Mind Institute .
A swanky @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lady M and outfitted by Baccarat will be at Wednesday night ’ s event and will stick around through March 8 for shoppers to enjoy .
( For a list of all the opening week events , go to www.bloomingdales.com/valleyfair . )
This may seem like a lot of fuss over the opening of a department store , but Bloomingdale ’ s remains a cultural phenomenon , from its iconic , paper “ Little Brown Bag ” to its mentions on shows like HBO ’ s “ Sex and the City.
” In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are not too many brick-and-mortar stores that can still make as big a splash as Bloomie ’ s .

Click here if you are unable to view this gallery on a mobile device.
It’s Tuesday morning, about 48 hours before the new Bloomingdale’s at Westfield Valley Fair officially opens to the public, but the upscale department store is buzzing with activity.
Blouses and dresses are being fitted onto mannequins, acres of lipstick and other cosmetics are being lined up in displays and the creases are being steamed out of sheets and pillowcases for the bedding displays on the third floor. Hundreds of people are walking over the store’s signature black-and-white checkerboard tile floor, which will no doubt be shined to a high-gloss again before the first customer walks in the door Thursday.
Welcome to the final moments of Valley Fair B.B. — Before Bloomingdale’s. The three-level, 150,000 square-foot store is the centerpiece of the shopping center’s $1.1 billion expansion, and it needs to satisfy both Valley Fair’s legions of shoppers and Bloomingdale’s loyalists — or, Loyallists, as its rewards program members are known — who may wonder if the Bay Area needed a third Bloomie’s after San Francisco and Stanford Shopping Center.
“The two most important things to me are they leave having really enjoyed they experience — that we surprised them and delighted them along the way — and that they tell their friends,” said Mark Sullivan, general manager Bloomingdale’s Valley Fair. “I want them to feel leaving they’ve had an exceptional in-store, high-end luxury experience.”
Oh, there’s no missing the “high-end luxury” part.
The ground floor is devoted to the four Fs — footwear, fragrances, fashion accessories and fine jewelry. The shoe displays read like a fashion-show line-up with brands like Ferragamo, Dior, Jimmy Choo and Gucci. But there’s also a lot of space devoted to running shoes, and you’ll find more activewear than you might normally find at a Bloomingdale’s.That’s all about research into the demographics in Silicon Valley, where people are generally more active than elsewhere, have the weather to be outdoors more often and, let’s face it, like to look good whether they’re at the gym or on hiking trails.
“We know there is a shopper that lives outdoors, that lives in the gym and eats very healthy, and that’s accentuated in this store compared to other Bloomingdale’s,” Sullivan said.
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San Jose’s lofty barbecue ranking cools off considerably Local News | Will removal ceremony close San Jose’s Fallon statue saga? A central set of escalators carries shoppers up to the second floor — ready-to-wear women’s and children’s clothing and accessories, as well as a serious selection of gowns and dresses perfect for prom. Again, brands like Rebecca Taylor, Tory Burch and Rag & Bone pop out, along with exclusive Bloomingdale’s brands Aqua and Lini. Things get manly as you head up to the third level, which is divided between men’s clothing and accessories and an extensive home department that includes a demonstration kitchen and a gorgeous but delicate display from crystal-maker Baccarat. A truly impressive spectrum of towels in every possible shade lines a wall. “If you can’t find a towel in the color you want, it may not exist,” Sullivan says.
And there’s the Carousel, a rotating, guest-curated pop-up shop available at only five other Bloomingdale’s. “World Bazaar,” the current one running in March and April, is curated by Karla Martinez, the editor-in-chief of Vogue Mexico and Latin America, and features different clothing items and accessories that have a cultural flavor to them. Previous Carousel curators have included an actress from “Disney’s The Lion King” on Broadway and pro surfer Quincy Davis.
The spacious, well-lit design of the store isn’t strictly by-the-numbers, either. There are giant California poppies here and there, and the words “San Jose” pop up as a design element throughout. And it’ll have even more of a Bay Area feel later this month with the opening of AnQi, an Asian fusion restaurant from Chef Helene An.
Bloomingdale’s will have a ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday morning before it opens to the public at 10 a.m., but there’s a “county fair”-themed grand-opening preview party Wednesday night in partnership with the 49ers Foundation. Other opening-week events will benefit the Silicon Valley Education Foundation, Save the Redwoods League, Family Giving Tree, JDRF and the Child Mind Institute. A swanky “cake truck” from high-end bakery Lady M and outfitted by Baccarat will be at Wednesday night’s event and will stick around through March 8 for shoppers to enjoy. (For a list of all the opening week events, go to www.bloomingdales.com/valleyfair.)
This may seem like a lot of fuss over the opening of a department store, but Bloomingdale’s remains a cultural phenomenon, from its iconic, paper “Little Brown Bag” to its mentions on shows like HBO’s “Sex and the City.” In today’s retail environment, there are not too many brick-and-mortar stores that can still make as big a splash as Bloomie’s.


mercurynews--2020-03-03--San Jose: Intense fire breaks out near auto-repair shop

SAN JOSE — Firefighters were battling a four-alarm blaze Tuesday after a yard full of wooden pallets and used tires @ @ @ @ @ said .
San Jose Fire spokesman Brad Cloutier said dispatchers got word of the fire @ @ @ @ @ South 10th Street from multiple local calls at about 2:49 p.m .
There were no @ @ @ @ @ Fire officials said they will determine damages after the fire is put out .
Firefighters @ @ @ @ @ to the yard where it started shortly before 4 p.m. , but expressed concerned that @ @ @ @ @ , paints in nearby auto shops and other materials would intensify it .
Fire spread @ @ @ @ @ one point but was quickly knocked down .
Check back later for updates to this @ @

SAN JOSE – Firefighters battled a four-alarm fire at an auto shop south of downtown San Jose amid windy conditions Tuesday afternoon, ultimately containing the blaze before it could spread to nearby businesses.
The flames were reported about 3 p.m. on the 1700 block of South 10th Street, said San Jose fire Capt. Brad Cloutier, adding that fire Chief Robert Sapien Jr. was the first to arrive at the scene.
“He reported that we had a fire pretty well involved in some pallets and tires behind the auto shop,” Cloutier said as a thick plume of smoke rose into the skies above the South Bay.
Crews joined Sapien and called for additional alarms as windy conditions threatened to push the blaze into neighboring businesses. Roughly 30 people from the auto shop and surrounding businesses were evacuated.
There was concern that pallets and paints at neighboring businesses would increase the fire’s intensity. Flames spread to a nearby building at one point, but they were quickly knocked down.
The fire was ultimately contained to the yard where it started and declared under control by about 5 p.m.
Two crews remained on scene overnight until about 1 a.m. Wednesday to keep an eye on smoldering pallets, said public information officer Erica Ray, with one crew expected to stay until about midday.
There were no reports of injuries among either evacuees or firefighters. Although several nearby businesses sustained minor heat damage, firefighters managed to tamp down the flames before they moved beyond the auto shop, Ray said.
The cause of the blaze is under investigation. As far as investigators can tell, the fire started outside the actual structure in the pallets and tires, Cloutier said.
On Wednesday, investigators will dig into the fire’s exact origin, Ray said. There was not an immediate estimate of the monetary damage to the auto shop.
Both South 10th and South 7th streets were closed from Phelan Avenue to Tully Road while crews fought the fire.
Staff writers Fiona Kelliher and Robert Salonga contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-03-03--Branham boys soccer team wins CCS Division II title

“ And we were getting beat up in the early rounds , ” he said .
But Branham came through with a knockout in the final round , as keeper Chris Sagahon stopped a Mt .
Pleasant penalty kick after overtime to clinch Branham ’ s first CCS boys soccer title in a 0-0 ( 6-5 ) victory over Mt .
Pleasant at Del Mar .
“ When he made that save , I thought about all the guys that have been in this program , ” said Kadah , who has coached the Bruins for 11 years .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zac Tzou and Carter Thompson converted the first two penalty shots for Branham , but both Branham and Mt .
Pleasant missed their third attempts , keeping the score tied at 2 .
Then the Bruins ’ Nate Coy , who told one of the Branham coaches that earlier in the day he was practicing penalty kicks , buried a shot .
Teammate Jaeson Gonzalez made Branham ’ s fifth attempt , then left-footed Kobe Okasako hammered a shot into the right corner of the net for the Bruins ’ fifth goal .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but then Branham , which was shooting first , received its sixth goal by Jin Lee .
This set up Sagahon ’ s heroics as he saved the next Mt .
Pleasant shot for the victory .
Four of the six Branham shooters were defenders .
The Bruins defense also did a fine job stopping Mt .
Pleasant , as Tzou shadowed Cardinals striker Ricardo Tovar Herrera and Sagahon grabbed six saves .
Branham ’ s defense has been top-notch in its six-game winning streak heading into this week ’ s California Interscholastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It includes three shutouts , including all three games in the CCS playoffs .
“ Last year , our whole backline was all-league .
This year .
it is more of a team mentality , ” said Kadah about his team ’ s defense .
“ Battling for the ball has been our mentality.
” Branham , the No .
1 seed in the CCS Division II playoffs , opened with a 3-0 shutout of No 8 Los Gatos on Feb. 22 .
Gonzalez , Thompson and Kenneth Esquivias scored for the Bruins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 Wilcox 1-0 in overtime in a semifinal on Feb 26 before the PK victory over No .
6 Mt .
Pleasant in the final .
Thompson , one of three returning starters for the Bruins from last season , took a perfectly-placed free-kick from Lee and headed it into the net with approximately two minutes left in the second overtime against Wilcox .
The Bruins opened NorCal play at home on Tuesday against No .
6 Albany .
The result was not available at press time .
The Division III semifinals were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday .
It was a far cry from the way the season started for Branham .
The Bruins began by losing three of their first four games and trailed Cabrillo-Lompoc 2-0 in the first half of the next game .
But Branham scored three goals to take a one-goal lead at halftime and eventually won 6-4 , as Thompson produced a hat trick .
Entering this week ’ s action , Branham ’ s record was 14-3-2 since that point .
Bellarmine only allowed one goal in its three CCS Open Division games @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1-0 with a first-half goal over Sacred Heart Prep last Friday .
Bellarmine was the No .
3 seed , Sacred Heart Prep was the No .
4 seed .
The Bells defeated No .
2 Watsonville 2-1 in the semifinals on Feb. 25 .
In a first-round game on Feb. 22 , Bellarmine shut out No .
6 Leland 3-0 .
Bellarmine is the No .
3 seed in the CIF NorCal Division I playoffs .
It hosted No .
6 Berkeley on Tuesday after this publication went to press .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday .
Del Mar ( 18-4-1 ) reached the Division IV championship game on Saturday before falling 2-0 to No .
1 seed Summit Prep ( 19-0 ) .
Del Mar , the No .
2 seed , beat No .
3 North Salinas 3-1 in a semifinal on Feb. 26 .
Leigh ( 10-7-3 ) , the No .
2 seed in Division II , fell to Mt .
Pleasant 3-1 in the semifinals on Feb. 26 .
The match was tied at 1-1 at halftime .
Leigh , the No .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was edged by No .
1 Archbishop Mitty 2-1 in a semifinal matchup on Feb. 25 .
Leigh is the No .
8 seed in the CIF NorCal Division II playoffs and traveled to face No .
1 Tamalpais in a first-round match on Tuesday after this publication went to press .
The semifinals were Thursday and the final is Saturday .

Branham High School boys soccer coach Danny Kadah compared Saturday’s Central Coast Section Division II championship game as a 12-round fight.
“And we were getting beat up in the early rounds,” he said.
But Branham came through with a knockout in the final round, as keeper Chris Sagahon stopped a Mt. Pleasant penalty kick after overtime to clinch Branham’s first CCS boys soccer title in a 0-0 (6-5) victory over Mt. Pleasant at Del Mar.
“When he made that save, I thought about all the guys that have been in this program,” said Kadah, who has coached the Bruins for 11 years. “There was a lot of emotion.”
Zac Tzou and Carter Thompson converted the first two penalty shots for Branham, but both Branham and Mt. Pleasant missed their third attempts, keeping the score tied at 2. Then the Bruins’ Nate Coy, who told one of the Branham coaches that earlier in the day he was practicing penalty kicks, buried a shot.
Teammate Jaeson Gonzalez made Branham’s fifth attempt, then left-footed Kobe Okasako hammered a shot into the right corner of the net for the Bruins’ fifth goal.
Mt. Pleasant tied the score, but then Branham, which was shooting first, received its sixth goal by Jin Lee. This set up Sagahon’s heroics as he saved the next Mt. Pleasant shot for the victory.
Four of the six Branham shooters were defenders. The Bruins defense also did a fine job stopping Mt. Pleasant, as Tzou shadowed Cardinals striker Ricardo Tovar Herrera and Sagahon grabbed six saves.
Branham’s defense has been top-notch in its six-game winning streak heading into this week’s California Interscholastic Federation NorCal Division III regional playoffs. It includes three shutouts, including all three games in the CCS playoffs.
“Last year, our whole backline was all-league. This year. it is more of a team mentality,” said Kadah about his team’s defense. “Battling for the ball has been our mentality.”
Branham, the No. 1 seed in the CCS Division II playoffs, opened with a 3-0 shutout of No 8 Los Gatos on Feb. 22. Gonzalez, Thompson and Kenneth Esquivias scored for the Bruins.
Then the Bruins edged No. 5 Wilcox 1-0 in overtime in a semifinal on Feb 26 before the PK victory over No. 6 Mt. Pleasant in the final. Thompson, one of three returning starters for the Bruins from last season, took a perfectly-placed free-kick from Lee and headed it into the net with approximately two minutes left in the second overtime against Wilcox.
The Bruins opened NorCal play at home on Tuesday against No. 6 Albany. The result was not available at press time. The Division III semifinals were on Thursday and the final is on Saturday.
It was a far cry from the way the season started for Branham. The Bruins began by losing three of their first four games and trailed Cabrillo-Lompoc 2-0 in the first half of the next game. But Branham scored three goals to take a one-goal lead at halftime and eventually won 6-4, as Thompson produced a hat trick. Entering this week’s action, Branham’s record was 14-3-2 since that point.
Bellarmine only allowed one goal in its three CCS Open Division games, as it won the championship match 1-0 with a first-half goal over Sacred Heart Prep last Friday. Bellarmine was the No. 3 seed, Sacred Heart Prep was the No. 4 seed.
The Bells defeated No. 2 Watsonville 2-1 in the semifinals on Feb. 25. In a first-round game on Feb. 22, Bellarmine shut out No. 6 Leland 3-0.
Bellarmine is the No. 3 seed in the CIF NorCal Division I playoffs. It hosted No. 6 Berkeley on Tuesday after this publication went to press. The semifinals were Thursday and the final is Saturday.
Del Mar (18-4-1) reached the Division IV championship game on Saturday before falling 2-0 to No. 1 seed Summit Prep (19-0). Del Mar, the No. 2 seed, beat No. 3 North Salinas 3-1 in a semifinal on Feb. 26.
Leigh (10-7-3), the No. 2 seed in Division II, fell to Mt. Pleasant 3-1 in the semifinals on Feb. 26. The match was tied at 1-1 at halftime.
Girls soccer
Leigh, the No. 4 seed in the CCS Open Division, was edged by No. 1 Archbishop Mitty 2-1 in a semifinal matchup on Feb. 25. Leigh is the No. 8 seed in the CIF NorCal Division II playoffs and traveled to face No. 1 Tamalpais in a first-round match on Tuesday after this publication went to press. The semifinals were Thursday and the final is Saturday.


mercurynews--2020-03-03--Market plunges again as rate cut fails to stem dread

NEW YORK — Fear and uncertainty continue to control Wall Street , and stocks fell sharply Tuesday after an emergency interest-rate cut by the Federal Reserve failed to reassure markets wracked by worries that a fast-spreading virus will cause a recession .
The Dow Jones Industrial average sank 785 points , or 2.9 % .
It had surged 5 % a day earlier on hopes for a broader set of stimulus measures .
While the cut gave some investors exactly what they had been asking for , Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell acknowledged that the ultimate solution to the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts and others , not central banks .
Some traders are also questioning whether more aid is on the way to stabilize the market , while others called the Fed ’ s move premature to begin with .
For more than a few , the Fed ’ s steepest rate cut since 2008 recalled the dark days of the financial crisis and only added to the dread .
Through it all , markets are still faced with the same quandary that has sent stock prices tumbling 11 % since they set a record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knows how far the virus will ultimately spread before authorities can get it under control , and by how much companies ’ profits will be shorn because of it .
That uncertainty led to jagged trading across markets on Tuesday .
Stocks rallied briefly in the morning following the Fed ’ s surprise move , but it took just 15 minutes for the gains to evaporate .
The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell below 1 % for the first time in history as investors ratcheted back expectations for the economy and inflation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of upcoming swings for stocks jerked wildly up and down through the day .
After popping to a 1.5 % gain shortly after the Fed ’ s announcement , the S & P 500 swung between modest gains and losses for about an hour before turning decisively lower .
The index ended the day down 86.86 points , or 2.8 % , at 3,003.37 .
It pared a loss that reached 3.7 % in the mid-afternoon , and it marks the eighth drop in the last nine days for the index .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the market ’ s rescue with lower rates and other stimulus , which has helped this bull market in U.S. stocks become the longest on record .
Some analysts said the Fed ’ s latest cut could provide some more confidence .
“ Confidence in markets is crucial , ” said Quincy Krosby , chief market strategist at Prudential Financial .
“ Without confidence , you don ’ t have a market.
” The Dow Jones Industrial Average had jumped Monday to its best day in more than a decade on rising @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other central banks .
Even before Tuesday ’ s announcement , traders were convinced that the Fed would cut rates by half a percentage point on March 18 at its next meeting .
But doubts are high about whether the medicine provided by central banks can be as effective this time around .
Lower rates can encourage shoppers and businesses to borrow and spend more , but they can ’ t reopen factories that have been shut or recall workers out due to quarantines .
After the Fed ’ s announcement , Powell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solve the health crisis .
But he said the Fed recognizes the fast spread of the virus is a risk for the economy , and he cited concerns from the travel and hotel industries .
Powell said that since last week , when several Fed officials had said they saw no urgent need to cut rates , “ we have seen a broader spread of the virus.
” The high stakes pushed the Fed to cut rates outside of a regularly scheduled meeting for the first time since the 2008 financial crisis , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the world ’ s financial system as possible if not likely .
That in itself may have spooked the market , as some investors wondered if the Fed saw things as worse than they were led to believe .
“ I don ’ t believe that market participants woke up this morning thinking we were facing a crisis similar to the global financial crisis , ” said Kristina Hooper , chief global market strategist at Invesco .
“ But that ’ s what the Fed ’ s actions suggested to some.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emotions about the move for days .
Some economists called the Fed ’ s move premature , given that U.S. economic data has yet to show a sharp drop due to the virus .
“ The nature of today ’ s announcement could send the wrong signal to market participants , including individual investors who are concerned with recent market volatility , ” said Roger Aliaga-Diaz , chief economist of the Americas at Vanguard .
Markets are likely to remain shaky until investors get a sense of what the worst-case scenario really is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been on edge for nearly two weeks , as the virus spreads beyond China and companies across continents and industries say they expect it to hit their profits .
Payments processor Visa on Tuesday joined the lengthening list of companies warning investors .
It said its quarterly revenue will be weaker than earlier predicted because of a drop-off in travel-related spending on cards .
“ To get a floor on the markets , realistically , what we need to see is not so much a cut in the number of new coronavirus cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the acceleration , ” said Salvatore Bruno , chief investment officer for IndexIQ .
“ Up until that time , we ’ re likely to see a lot of volatility.
” Worldwide , more than 92,000 people have been sickened , and over 3,100 have died .
The number of countries hit by the virus has reached at least 70 , with Ukraine and Morocco reporting their first cases .
The topsy-turvy Tuesday got off to a slow trading start in the United States .
Earlier in the day , the Group of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the global economy , but they stopped short of announcing any specific new measures .
Disappointment in the lack of action helped push U.S. stocks lower at the opening of trading , before the Fed surprised markets with its announcement of the steep , half-point rate cut at 10 a.m. Eastern time .
Investors are still speculating whether other central banks will join and cut rates and offer stimulus in a coordinated effort around the world .
Before the Fed made its move , the Reserve Bank of Australia cut its key interest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
U.S. markets have been hit hard by fear over the virus ’ impact .
Monday ’ s surge for stocks on hopes that central banks will come to the rescue followed a broad sell-off last week that erased gains for 2020 and sent indexes into what market watchers call a “ correction , ” or a fall of 10 % or more from a peak .
Last week was the worst for the S & P 500 since the financial crisis .
The S & P 500 fell 86.86 points , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 785.91 points , or 2.9 % , to 25,917.41 .
The Nasdaq fell 268.07 , or 3 % , to 8,684.09 .
• Coronavirus : Santa Clara County warns those over 50 or with medical conditions to avoid large gatherings • U.S. coronavirus cases rise , 3 more die in Washington state as 1 million test kits promised • Not sure what the future holds for the coronavirus ?
Here is how 3 other infectious outbreaks ended European stock markets were broadly higher , with the German DAX @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 up 1.1 % and the FTSE 100 up 1 % .
In Asia , Japan ’ s Nikkei 225 fell 1.2 % , South Korea ’ s Kospi rose 0.6 % , and stocks in Shanghai added 0.7 % .
Bond yields swung following the Fed ’ s announcement .
The yield on the 10-year Treasury slumped to 1.01 % from 1.08 % late Monday after earlier dropping below the 1 % threshold for the first time .
The 10-year yield tends to fall when expectations are for weak economic growth and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more on Fed actions , had even more dramatic drops .
The two-year Treasury yield sank to 0.71 % from 0.81 % .

By Stan Choe | Associated Press
NEW YORK — Fear and uncertainty continue to control Wall Street, and stocks fell sharply Tuesday after an emergency interest-rate cut by the Federal Reserve failed to reassure markets wracked by worries that a fast-spreading virus will cause a recession.
The Dow Jones Industrial average sank 785 points, or 2.9%. It had surged 5% a day earlier on hopes for a broader set of stimulus measures.
While the cut gave some investors exactly what they had been asking for, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell acknowledged that the ultimate solution to the virus challenge will have to come from health experts and others, not central banks. Some traders are also questioning whether more aid is on the way to stabilize the market, while others called the Fed’s move premature to begin with. For more than a few, the Fed’s steepest rate cut since 2008 recalled the dark days of the financial crisis and only added to the dread.
Through it all, markets are still faced with the same quandary that has sent stock prices tumbling 11% since they set a record just two weeks ago: No one knows how far the virus will ultimately spread before authorities can get it under control, and by how much companies’ profits will be shorn because of it.
That uncertainty led to jagged trading across markets on Tuesday. Stocks rallied briefly in the morning following the Fed’s surprise move, but it took just 15 minutes for the gains to evaporate. The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell below 1% for the first time in history as investors ratcheted back expectations for the economy and inflation. A gauge measuring traders’ fear of upcoming swings for stocks jerked wildly up and down through the day.
After popping to a 1.5% gain shortly after the Fed’s announcement, the S&P 500 swung between modest gains and losses for about an hour before turning decisively lower. The index ended the day down 86.86 points, or 2.8%, at 3,003.37. It pared a loss that reached 3.7% in the mid-afternoon, and it marks the eighth drop in the last nine days for the index.
The Fed has a long history of coming to the market’s rescue with lower rates and other stimulus, which has helped this bull market in U.S. stocks become the longest on record. Some analysts said the Fed’s latest cut could provide some more confidence.
“Confidence in markets is crucial,” said Quincy Krosby, chief market strategist at Prudential Financial. “Without confidence, you don’t have a market.”
The Dow Jones Industrial Average had jumped Monday to its best day in more than a decade on rising anticipation for aid from the Fed and other central banks. Even before Tuesday’s announcement, traders were convinced that the Fed would cut rates by half a percentage point on March 18 at its next meeting.
But doubts are high about whether the medicine provided by central banks can be as effective this time around. Lower rates can encourage shoppers and businesses to borrow and spend more, but they can’t reopen factories that have been shut or recall workers out due to quarantines.
After the Fed’s announcement, Powell acknowledged that central banks can’t solve the health crisis. But he said the Fed recognizes the fast spread of the virus is a risk for the economy, and he cited concerns from the travel and hotel industries. Powell said that since last week, when several Fed officials had said they saw no urgent need to cut rates, “we have seen a broader spread of the virus.”
The high stakes pushed the Fed to cut rates outside of a regularly scheduled meeting for the first time since the 2008 financial crisis, when investors were considering a complete meltdown of the world’s financial system as possible if not likely. That in itself may have spooked the market, as some investors wondered if the Fed saw things as worse than they were led to believe.
“I don’t believe that market participants woke up this morning thinking we were facing a crisis similar to the global financial crisis,” said Kristina Hooper, chief global market strategist at Invesco. “But that’s what the Fed’s actions suggested to some.”
She said investors will likely have mixed emotions about the move for days.
Some economists called the Fed’s move premature, given that U.S. economic data has yet to show a sharp drop due to the virus.
“The nature of today’s announcement could send the wrong signal to market participants, including individual investors who are concerned with recent market volatility,” said Roger Aliaga-Diaz, chief economist of the Americas at Vanguard.
Markets are likely to remain shaky until investors get a sense of what the worst-case scenario really is in this virus outbreak. Markets have been on edge for nearly two weeks, as the virus spreads beyond China and companies across continents and industries say they expect it to hit their profits.
Payments processor Visa on Tuesday joined the lengthening list of companies warning investors. It said its quarterly revenue will be weaker than earlier predicted because of a drop-off in travel-related spending on cards.
“To get a floor on the markets, realistically, what we need to see is not so much a cut in the number of new coronavirus cases, but at least a slowdown in the acceleration,” said Salvatore Bruno, chief investment officer for IndexIQ. “Up until that time, we’re likely to see a lot of volatility.”
Worldwide, more than 92,000 people have been sickened, and over 3,100 have died. The number of countries hit by the virus has reached at least 70, with Ukraine and Morocco reporting their first cases.
The topsy-turvy Tuesday got off to a slow trading start in the United States. Earlier in the day, the Group of Seven major industrialized countries pledged support for the global economy, but they stopped short of announcing any specific new measures. Disappointment in the lack of action helped push U.S. stocks lower at the opening of trading, before the Fed surprised markets with its announcement of the steep, half-point rate cut at 10 a.m. Eastern time.
Investors are still speculating whether other central banks will join and cut rates and offer stimulus in a coordinated effort around the world. Before the Fed made its move, the Reserve Bank of Australia cut its key interest rate to a record low 0.5%.
U.S. markets have been hit hard by fear over the virus’ impact. Monday’s surge for stocks on hopes that central banks will come to the rescue followed a broad sell-off last week that erased gains for 2020 and sent indexes into what market watchers call a “correction,” or a fall of 10% or more from a peak. Last week was the worst for the S&P 500 since the financial crisis.
Market roundup:


mercurynews--2020-03-04--Letter: I no longer feel US leaders can make sure we’re safe

No longer feel US leaders can make sure we ’ re safe I just returned from a trip to New York City .
It was a wonderful trip including a sobering visit to the 9/11 Memorial .
While I have never been any type of fan of President George W. Bush , during that terrorist attack on our country , I had full faith that my government was doing everything in its power to protect our country and I felt safe .
During my recent visit to the 9/11 Memorial , I was struck by the fact that I no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The federal structure which I could count on has been decimated .
The United States Intelligence Community has been shredded and the leadership in what should be a nonpartisan executive branch has been dismissed .
• Letter : COVID-19 : Many don ’ t have health care or paid sick days • Letter : New Costco rule may help low-income folks after all • Letter : Will Sanders lift the poor or bring down the rich ?
If this country comes under another attack ( including the COVID-19 outbreak ) , do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , background and knowledge to make sure we are safe ?
I no longer do .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

No longer feel US leaders
can make sure we’re safe
I just returned from a trip to New York City. It was a wonderful trip including a sobering visit to the 9/11 Memorial.
While I have never been any type of fan of President George W. Bush, during that terrorist attack on our country, I had full faith that my government was doing everything in its power to protect our country and I felt safe.
During my recent visit to the 9/11 Memorial, I was struck by the fact that I no longer feel safe in my country. The federal structure which I could count on has been decimated. The United States Intelligence Community has been shredded and the leadership in what should be a nonpartisan executive branch has been dismissed.
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Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps If this country comes under another attack (including the COVID-19 outbreak), do you really believe the government has enough experience, background and knowledge to make sure we are safe? I no longer do.
Moira Fry
San Leandro
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mercurynews--2020-03-04--Letter: Idea to let animal lovers buy ‘non-hunting access’ licenses

In response to the Department of Fish and Wildlife ( DFW ) proposal to promote hunting for financial gain , I have a more humane suggestion .
If the DFW would promise to limit “ hunting ” licenses to a specific number per species per year , and convert the licenses to “ hunting ” or “ non-hunting access ” ( mutually exclusive options , adding up to the pre-specified limit per year ) , I , and I hope , many other animal lovers , would be willing to buy up many of the “ non-hunting access ” licenses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and more animals would get to survive .
• Letter : COVID-19 : Many don ’ t have health care or paid sick days • Letter : New Costco rule may help low-income folks after all • Letter : Will Sanders lift the poor or bring down the rich ?
The major reasons wetland and wildland habitats are disappearing , of course , is wanton destruction by real estate developers and agricultural corporations , something that won ’ t be fixed by killing the few wild animals in the few wild spaces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Licenses to animal lovers
may fund wildlife service
Re: “The decline of hunting in California” (Mercurynews.com, Feb. 21):
In response to the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) proposal to promote hunting for financial gain, I have a more humane suggestion.
If the DFW would promise to limit “hunting” licenses to a specific number per species per year, and convert the licenses to “hunting” or “non-hunting access” (mutually exclusive options, adding up to the pre-specified limit per year), I, and I hope, many other animal lovers, would be willing to buy up many of the “non-hunting access” licenses.
The DFW would get its money, and more animals would get to survive.
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Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps The major reasons wetland and wildland habitats are disappearing, of course, is wanton destruction by real estate developers and agricultural corporations, something that won’t be fixed by killing the few wild animals in the few wild spaces that remain.
Marsha Armstrong
Monte Sereno
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mercurynews--2020-03-04--Bridge: March 4, 2020

Bridge: March 4, 2020

“ For everybody else , luck is a nine days ’ wonder , ” Unlucky Louie grumbled to me in the club lounge .
“ Harlow has a lifetime pass.
” While Louie deals with misfortune , the player we call Harlow the Halo basks in persistent good luck .
In a team match , both Louie and Harlow played at 6NT .
West led the queen of spades .
Harlow won and unblocked dummy ’ s high diamonds , accepting the 3-3 break as his due , and king of clubs .
He came to his ace of hearts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The jack fell , so Harlow had four clubs , four diamonds , two hearts and two spades .
Louie was more careful .
At Trick Two , he conceded a heart .
He won the spade return , took the king of clubs and led a heart to his ace .
If hearts had split 3-2 , Louie would have had 12 tricks no matter how the minor suits lay .
As it was , he still got home when both minors treated him well .
“ The man was born with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Louie sighed .
You hold : S 7 6 H A K 5 D 8 6 5 2 C A Q 10 3 .
Your partner opens one spade , you respond two clubs and he bids two hearts .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : You have enough values to commit to game but can not comfortably place the contract .
You have two options .
One is to bid four hearts despite the lack of a fourth trump .
The other is to bid three diamonds , a “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a winning decision after you hear partner bid once more .

“For everybody else, luck is a nine days’ wonder,” Unlucky Louie grumbled to me in the club lounge. “Harlow has a lifetime pass.”
While Louie deals with misfortune, the player we call Harlow the Halo basks in persistent good luck.
In a team match, both Louie and Harlow played at 6NT. West led the queen of spades. Harlow won and unblocked dummy’s high diamonds, accepting the 3-3 break as his due, and king of clubs. He came to his ace of hearts and took the A-Q of clubs. The jack fell, so Harlow had four clubs, four diamonds, two hearts and two spades.
SPADE RETURN
Louie was more careful. At Trick Two, he conceded a heart. He won the spade return, took the king of clubs and led a heart to his ace. If hearts had split 3-2, Louie would have had 12 tricks no matter how the minor suits lay. As it was, he still got home when both minors treated him well.
Louie’s play was superior; Harlow deserved to fail.
“The man was born with a silver horseshoe in his mouth,” Louie sighed.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S 7 6 H A K 5 D 8 6 5 2 C A Q 10 3. Your partner opens one spade, you respond two clubs and he bids two hearts. What do you say?
ANSWER: You have enough values to commit to game but cannot comfortably place the contract. You have two options. One is to bid four hearts despite the lack of a fourth trump. The other is to bid three diamonds, a “fourth-suit” action, hoping to make a winning decision after you hear partner bid once more.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S A K 4 2
H 8 7 6 4 3
D A K Q
C K
WEST
S Q J 10 9
H J
D 10 9 3
C 9 8 6 5 2
EAST
S 8 5 3
H Q 10 9 2
D J 7 4
C J 7 4
SOUTH
S 7 6
H A K 5
D 8 6 5 2
C A Q 10 3
South West North East
1 C Pass 1 H Pass
2 H Pass 2 S Pass
2 NT Pass 6 NT All Pass
Opening lead — S Q
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-03-04--Word Game: March 4, 2020

Word Game: March 4, 2020

Can you find 36 or more words in CELERITY ?
The list will be published tomorrow .
To purchase the @ @ @ @ @ WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
@ @ @ @ @ or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of @ @ @ @ @ as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
@ @ @ @ @ a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For @ @ @ @ @ ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , @ @ @ @ @ “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or @ @ @ @ @ are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — CELERITY (CELERITY: suh-LER-ih-tee: Rapidity of motion or action; speed.)
Average mark 27 words
Time limit 40 minutes
Can you find 36 or more words in CELERITY? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — GROUNDHOG gong good goon gourd grog
ground gundog rondo rood rough round rung odor undo dong donor door
dough dour drug dugong dung honor hood horn hound hour hung
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


mercurynews--2020-03-04--Horoscopes March 4, 2020: Mykelti Williamson, romance is favored.

Happy Birthday : Make amends , improve your surroundings and pay attention to the ones you love .
Channel your energy into revitalization , and put together a to-do list that will encourage a better life .
Make physical , financial and emotional health your intent , and stabilizing and securing your life your goals .
Commit to do the work and to reap the rewards .
Romance is favored .
Your numbers are 8 , 11 , 23 , 26 , 30 , 44 , 47 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Emotions will lead to trouble @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might regret .
Sometimes it ’ s best to take a back seat and observe .
Walk away from disputes , bullies and situations that can lead to changes you don ’ t want .
2 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : A strategic approach to whatever you wish to conquer will help you succeed .
Consider what you are willing to share , and that will determine what you get back .
Be open to suggestions , and follow through with your plans .
A partnership looks promising .
4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Your peers are likely to be friendly but not trustworthy .
Take the time to make an effort to gather information directly from the source in order to avoid a costly mistake .
Intelligence , common sense and charm are your best means of defense .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Rest will help you see situations differently .
You ’ ll understand what ’ s required of you once you ’ ve had a chance to consider all sides of a job .
A positive change is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Don ’ t make a snap decision that is physically or professionally compromising .
A change in your financial situation is apparent if you take an unnecessary risk .
Pay off something or collect debts .
You ’ ll feel so much better once you resolve your money issues .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : You will have plenty of choices .
Don ’ t use your energy helping others get ahead when you should be helping yourself .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ interests first and foremost .
A personal pick-me-up is overdue .
Romance is encouraged .
4 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Don ’ t let anyone put words in your mouth .
Keeping the peace doesn ’ t mean you should give in or let someone take advantage of you .
Avoid people who are disruptive or those who use manipulative tactics to control you .
Positive change begins with you .
2 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Don ’ t waste time pondering what to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to something or someone .
Step up , and let your instincts take over .
Follow your heart , and do what feels right .
Romance is in the stars .
5 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Take a pragmatic approach when dealing with someone who has a tendency to overreact or exaggerate .
Protect your reputation , assets and personal data .
Don ’ t count on anything or anyone but yourself in order to avoid loss .
Focus on individual improvement .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your spirits and inspire you to expand and explore new possibilities .
Making home improvements , traveling and nurturing meaningful relationships will bring the highest rewards and personal happiness .
Added discipline will help you reach personal goals .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Sort out what you want to do next .
Thinking things through , planning and preparing will be necessary if you don ’ t want to end up heading in the wrong direction .
Follow your heart , not what someone wants you to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 ) : Look at your situation , and make any adjustments necessary .
Balancing home , work and play is essential if you want to achieve a healthy mindset .
Romance will enhance your personal life .
A promise will turn into reality .
5 stars Birthday Baby : You are creative , compassionate and loyal .
You are possessive and precise .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Chaz Bono, 51; Patricia Heaton, 62; Mykelti Williamson, 63; Catherine O’Hara, 66.
Happy Birthday: Make amends, improve your surroundings and pay attention to the ones you love. Channel your energy into revitalization, and put together a to-do list that will encourage a better life. Make physical, financial and emotional health your intent, and stabilizing and securing your life your goals. Commit to do the work and to reap the rewards. Romance is favored. Your numbers are 8, 11, 23, 26, 30, 44, 47.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Emotions will lead to trouble. Think before you say something you might regret. Sometimes it’s best to take a back seat and observe. Walk away from disputes, bullies and situations that can lead to changes you don’t want. 2 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A strategic approach to whatever you wish to conquer will help you succeed. Consider what you are willing to share, and that will determine what you get back. Be open to suggestions, and follow through with your plans. A partnership looks promising. 4 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your peers are likely to be friendly but not trustworthy. Take the time to make an effort to gather information directly from the source in order to avoid a costly mistake. Intelligence, common sense and charm are your best means of defense. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Rest will help you see situations differently. You’ll understand what’s required of you once you’ve had a chance to consider all sides of a job. A positive change is within reach. Bask in the spotlight. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t make a snap decision that is physically or professionally compromising. A change in your financial situation is apparent if you take an unnecessary risk. Pay off something or collect debts. You’ll feel so much better once you resolve your money issues. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You will have plenty of choices. Don’t use your energy helping others get ahead when you should be helping yourself. Make an attitude adjustment that puts your interests first and foremost. A personal pick-me-up is overdue. Romance is encouraged. 4 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Don’t let anyone put words in your mouth. Keeping the peace doesn’t mean you should give in or let someone take advantage of you. Avoid people who are disruptive or those who use manipulative tactics to control you. Positive change begins with you. 2 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t waste time pondering what to do next or wondering if you should commit to something or someone. Step up, and let your instincts take over. Follow your heart, and do what feels right. Romance is in the stars. 5 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take a pragmatic approach when dealing with someone who has a tendency to overreact or exaggerate. Protect your reputation, assets and personal data. Don’t count on anything or anyone but yourself in order to avoid loss. Focus on individual improvement. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A change will lift your spirits and inspire you to expand and explore new possibilities. Making home improvements, traveling and nurturing meaningful relationships will bring the highest rewards and personal happiness. Added discipline will help you reach personal goals. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Sort out what you want to do next. Thinking things through, planning and preparing will be necessary if you don’t want to end up heading in the wrong direction. Follow your heart, not what someone wants you to do. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Look at your situation, and make any adjustments necessary. Balancing home, work and play is essential if you want to achieve a healthy mindset. Romance will enhance your personal life. A promise will turn into reality. 5 stars
Birthday Baby: You are creative, compassionate and loyal. You are possessive and precise.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-03-04--Ask Amy: We went all-out to accommodate these guests, but it wasn’t enough

DEAR AMY : A couple of weeks before Christmas , my oldest son called with the news that his family planned to come home after Christmas .
I was elated , as the last time my three sons have been together for this holiday was over 10 years ago , and never since all the grandkids have been born .
The only issue was a very big condition : They needed to have a “ quiet ” area of the house for his mother-in-law , who lives with them .
She is bipolar and needs her sleep .
We live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was not sure how this would work !
• Ask Amy : I know why they won ’ t go to her house , but it seems cruel to tell her • Ask Amy : Our kids have seen us drunk .
Should we tell them the whole story ?
• Ask Amy : This anonymous act of kindness threw us for a loop • Ask Amy : The bride hurt my feelings .
Can I skip her wedding ?
• Ask Amy : My boyfriend gets upset if I won ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could not go to her son ’ s or her husband ’ s family to stay , either ( a very strange situation ) .
We weren ’ t sure what to do , so we offered to give them the house — they could divide up the three bedrooms as they saw fit , and we would stay in a hotel .
Well , they didn ’ t come .
It was very sad for me .
Do you think we were out of line ?
DEAR SAD : You offering your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of line — it was very generous .
You should assume that your son simply couldn ’ t face the prospect of putting you out of your house during the visit .
I hope you can approach this with compassion toward this family .
Yes , you are sad that they couldn ’ t visit .
But they have a lot on their plate , and it sounds as if they are doing their best .
DEAR AMY : A few years ago , I submitted my DNA on an ancestry site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email from a newly discovered son , “ Joe.
” Joe was adopted at birth and had received minimal information about his mother , although she left information that the father ( me ) was unaware of the pregnancy .
( I was in college at the time .
I am currently in my 70s ) .
Joe ’ s DNA test confirmed my paternal relationship .
I welcomed the information and have established a long-distance relationship ( as have my wife and other children ) .
I now am fairly certain that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s birth mother .
I wanted to get her permission before I disclosed her name to Joe , but have discovered that she died several years ago .
Through internet searches I have discovered the names of her other children , all born after Joe .
I think I can now tell Joe everything I know , so he can perhaps learn more about his birth mother ( and receive possibly valuable medical history ) through her other children .
He could suggest that they submit their DNA to confirm the relationship .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help your son , but — rather than speculate about the identity of his birth mother , exposing a group of strangers to the shock of this ( potentially incorrect ) information , you should advise him to first go to the county where he was born and fill out a petition with the court to have access to his own adoption records ( his adoptive parents may want to help him with this ) .
People who register to have their DNA tested and entered into a databank do so with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ store for some surprises .
In my ( limited ) circle , I know several men ( like you ) who have discovered — or been discovered — by offspring .
And , like you , all seem to have welcomed this news .
People placing children for adoption also have the legal right to their own privacy .
They have tackled a very painful dilemma , which is worlds away from yours .
“ Joe ” should go through legal channels .
He should also be patient — because , given the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a likelihood that he will receive more “ pings ” and notifications that he has additional DNA matches .
I might advise you toward more proactive disclosure if Joe was facing a serious inherited illness , but that doesn ’ t seem to be the case here .
DEAR AMY : As a six-time Grammy , I appreciated your response to the “ Loving Grandma , ” who asked about disciplining grandchildren in her home .
Yes , we need to reinforce parents ’ rules and play as a team for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ principal , I question the specific punishment laid down .
A child defaced a book .
Treats were withheld .
Eating has nothing to do with being irresponsible with objects .
An appropriate punishment would be for the child to do extra chores and work with the parents to replace the defaced book .
DEAR GRAMMY : Absolutely .
Thank you for the insight .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ askingamy or Facebook .

DEAR AMY: A couple of weeks before Christmas, my oldest son called with the news that his family planned to come home after Christmas.
I was elated, as the last time my three sons have been together for this holiday was over 10 years ago, and never since all the grandkids have been born.
The only issue was a very big condition: They needed to have a “quiet” area of the house for his mother-in-law, who lives with them. She is bipolar and needs her sleep.
We live in a small tri-level home and I was not sure how this would work!
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Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy The MIL could not go to her son’s or her husband’s family to stay, either (a very strange situation).
We weren’t sure what to do, so we offered to give them the house — they could divide up the three bedrooms as they saw fit, and we would stay in a hotel.
Well, they didn’t come. It was very sad for me.
Do you think we were out of line?
Sad Mom and Nana
DEAR SAD: You offering your entire home to this group was not out of line — it was very generous. You should assume that your son simply couldn’t face the prospect of putting you out of your house during the visit.
I hope you can approach this with compassion toward this family. Yes, you are sad that they couldn’t visit. But they have a lot on their plate, and it sounds as if they are doing their best.
DEAR AMY: A few years ago, I submitted my DNA on an ancestry site. Last year, I received an email from a newly discovered son, “Joe.”
Joe was adopted at birth and had received minimal information about his mother, although she left information that the father (me) was unaware of the pregnancy. (I was in college at the time. I am currently in my 70s).
Joe’s DNA test confirmed my paternal relationship. I welcomed the information and have established a long-distance relationship (as have my wife and other children).
I now am fairly certain that I know the identity of Joe’s birth mother. I wanted to get her permission before I disclosed her name to Joe, but have discovered that she died several years ago.
Through internet searches I have discovered the names of her other children, all born after Joe.
I think I can now tell Joe everything I know, so he can perhaps learn more about his birth mother (and receive possibly valuable medical history) through her other children. He could suggest that they submit their DNA to confirm the relationship.
Your thoughts?
DNA Papa
DEAR PAPA: You are genuinely motivated to help your son, but — rather than speculate about the identity of his birth mother, exposing a group of strangers to the shock of this (potentially incorrect) information, you should advise him to first go to the county where he was born and fill out a petition with the court to have access to his own adoption records (his adoptive parents may want to help him with this).
People who register to have their DNA tested and entered into a databank do so with some awareness that they might be in store for some surprises. In my (limited) circle, I know several men (like you) who have discovered — or been discovered — by offspring. And, like you, all seem to have welcomed this news.
People placing children for adoption also have the legal right to their own privacy. They have tackled a very painful dilemma, which is worlds away from yours.
“Joe” should go through legal channels. He should also be patient — because, given the ubiquity of these DNA databases, there is a likelihood that he will receive more “pings” and notifications that he has additional DNA matches.
I might advise you toward more proactive disclosure if Joe was facing a serious inherited illness, but that doesn’t seem to be the case here.
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR AMY: As a six-time Grammy, I appreciated your response to the “Loving Grandma,” who asked about disciplining grandchildren in her home.
Yes, we need to reinforce parents’ rules and play as a team for the kids.
As a retired teacher and principal, I question the specific punishment laid down. A child defaced a book. Treats were withheld. Eating has nothing to do with being irresponsible with objects. An appropriate punishment would be for the child to do extra chores and work with the parents to replace the defaced book.
Grammy GoGo
DEAR GRAMMY: Absolutely. Thank you for the insight.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-03-04--Letter: COVID-19: Many don’t have health care or paid sick days

The coronavirus shows why universal health care is a necessity and not some wild socialist scheme .
• Letter : @ @ @ @ @ low-income folks after all • Letter : Will Sanders lift the poor or bring down @ @ @ @ @ do not have affordable health care nor paid sick days .
Should they come down @ @ @ @ @ can not afford to take time off from work nor afford going to a doctor @ @ @ @ @ They will continue to work and infect others , especially if they are the cook @ @ @ @ @ the waitperson who served you .
Think about that next time you are dining out @ @ @ @ @ the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

COVID-19 shows universal
care no wild socialist plan
The coronavirus shows why universal health care is a necessity and not some wild socialist scheme.
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David Kurrent
Pinole
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-03-04--Harriette Cole: Her infuriating prediction about me has come true

DEAR HARRIETTE : I have a friend who wrote me a rather caustic note several years ago .
It turned out to be a premonition of sorts .
She said that if I did not change my habits , I would end up sick and in need of support at the very time that my son was about to become an adult .
She warned that I would be robbing my son of his independence if I didn ’ t get my act together .
I was so mad at her .
Well , here we are about 10 years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ started to interfere in my life .
I fear that my friend was right with her warning , which I did not heed .
I feel like I should apologize to her and scramble to see what I can do to avoid being a burden to my son in the near future .
DEAR FACING A PREMONITION : Right now you need to focus on your health .
Go to the doctor .
Create a manageable plan to get your health back on track .
• Harriette Cole : Should I just stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Harriette Cole : How can I tell if he ’ s going to hurt himself ?
• Harriette Cole : I scared myself by exploding at my friend • Harriette Cole : This guy I just met has turned into a stalker • Harriette Cole : My friend says my mom ’ s food is disgusting Rather than admitting your missteps to your friend , be in touch with her when you are on your way to better health practices .
Claim the positive , and go for it !
DEAR HARRIETTE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ months to pay me for a job I did .
Eventually , she sent me the payment in two checks .
After I received them , she called me frantically , telling me to deposit the first half immediately to ensure that it got paid ; she asked me to hold off on depositing the second check .
Later that day , she sent me an urgent text saying that I needed to deposit the money that very day .
Naturally , I wanted to get those checks in my bank account right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distressing .
Her frantic notes came at the end of the business day , when I could not get to my credit union to make a deposit in time .
She made me feel like I was doing something wrong .
Meanwhile , she is the one who took months to pay me .
I get that she is a small business , but I had no idea that it would be this difficult just to get paid .
She just called me like nothing happened and asked me to work with her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , given how awful this experience was .
A friend pointed out to me that she did pay .
Should I work with her again ?
How can I make it a better experience if I do ?
DEAR RESTART : What is evident is that this client is struggling financially .
It also seems that she wants to do right by her vendors .
Yes , it took a long time for you to be paid , but yes , she paid you in full .
Sadly , there are plenty of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honor their commitments as they hire vendors to fulfill services .
You have to evaluate your needs versus your tolerance for the frenetic way in which this client works .
If you can afford to walk away from her and fulfill your bottom line with more reliable clients , by all means do not accept any more work from her .
If you need this client , talk to her about how you might manage your expectations better .
Ask her upfront how long she thinks it will take to pay for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And then take a page out of her book and cash her check immediately when you receive it .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams .
You can send questions to askharriette @ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: I have a friend who wrote me a rather caustic note several years ago. It turned out to be a premonition of sorts.
She said that if I did not change my habits, I would end up sick and in need of support at the very time that my son was about to become an adult. She warned that I would be robbing my son of his independence if I didn’t get my act together. I was so mad at her.
Well, here we are about 10 years later, and my health issues have started to interfere in my life. I fear that my friend was right with her warning, which I did not heed.
I feel like I should apologize to her and scramble to see what I can do to avoid being a burden to my son in the near future.
Facing a Premonition
DEAR FACING A PREMONITION: Right now you need to focus on your health. Go to the doctor. Create a manageable plan to get your health back on track.
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DEAR HARRIETTE: I have a client who took months to pay me for a job I did. Eventually, she sent me the payment in two checks. After I received them, she called me frantically, telling me to deposit the first half immediately to ensure that it got paid; she asked me to hold off on depositing the second check. Later that day, she sent me an urgent text saying that I needed to deposit the money that very day.
Naturally, I wanted to get those checks in my bank account right away, but the experience was extremely distressing. Her frantic notes came at the end of the business day, when I could not get to my credit union to make a deposit in time. She made me feel like I was doing something wrong. Meanwhile, she is the one who took months to pay me.
I get that she is a small business, but I had no idea that it would be this difficult just to get paid.
She just called me like nothing happened and asked me to work with her again. I am reluctant to agree, given how awful this experience was.
A friend pointed out to me that she did pay. Should I work with her again? How can I make it a better experience if I do?
Restart
DEAR RESTART: What is evident is that this client is struggling financially. It also seems that she wants to do right by her vendors. Yes, it took a long time for you to be paid, but yes, she paid you in full. Sadly, there are plenty of businesses large and small that do not honor their commitments as they hire vendors to fulfill services.
You have to evaluate your needs versus your tolerance for the frenetic way in which this client works.
If you can afford to walk away from her and fulfill your bottom line with more reliable clients, by all means do not accept any more work from her.
If you need this client, talk to her about how you might manage your expectations better. Ask her upfront how long she thinks it will take to pay for the job you are about to do. And then take a page out of her book and cash her check immediately when you receive it.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.