mercurynews--2020-11-21--Caltrain collides with occupied vehicles in Burlingame

BURLINGAME — Two vehicles with people inside were struck by a Caltrain Friday evening , authorities said .
The collision @ @ @ @ @ tracks at the Broadway Avenue grade crossing , Caltrain said in a statement .
After @ @ @ @ @ with 45 passengers and 10 bicycles aboard struck the vehicles with six people inside , @ @ @ @ @ nearby and first responders were on scene , Caltrain said .
There were no immediate @ @ @ @

BURLINGAME — Train service resumed after two vehicles with people inside were struck by a Caltrain Friday evening, authorities said.
The collision happened around 4:40 p.m. on tracks at the Broadway Avenue grade crossing, Caltrain said in a statement.
After northbound train No. 159 with 45 passengers and 10 bicycles aboard struck the vehicles with six people inside, all other trains were halted nearby and first responders were on scene, Caltrain said.
Train No. 261 picked up the other train’s passengers and continued to make local stops while a tow truck arrived to remove the struck vehicles just after 5:40 p.m. Southbound and northbound train tracks were cleared at 6:12 and 6:18 p.m., a Caltrain spokeswoman said.
There were no immediate reports of injuries.
Check back for updates.
Delay: #NB159 has struck a vehicle at Broadway Ave right before the Broadway Station. More details to follow. — Caltrain Alerts (@CaltrainAlerts) November 21, 2020
Update: Transit PD reported multiple vehicles involved. Vehicles were allegedly occupied with approximately 6 people, but no reported injuries at this time. — Caltrain Alerts (@CaltrainAlerts) November 21, 2020
Main track 2 has been cleared for restricted speed between Burlingame and Broadway. — Caltrain Alerts (@CaltrainAlerts) November 21, 2020
Update: #NB159 has been terminated. #NB261 will be accommodating #NB159 passengers making all local stops. — Caltrain Alerts (@CaltrainAlerts) November 21, 2020
Update: #NB261 arrived Broadway Ave crossing and currently transferring passengers from #NB159 — Caltrain Alerts (@CaltrainAlerts) November 21, 2020
Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Giants leave former first round draft pick off 40-man roster

SAN FRANCISCO — The Giants have added outfielder Alexander Canario and pitchers Kervin Castro , Camilo Doval and Gregory Santos to their 40-man roster and designated catcher Aramis Garcia , utility player Chris Shaw and pitcher Jordan Humphreys for assignment .
Shaw , 27 , was drafted 31st overall out of Boston College by then-Giants general manager Bobby Evans .
He played 38 games for the Giants over two years in 2018 and 2019 , and hit .153 with seven RBI in 72 combined at-bats .
Shaw , however , was never on the big league roster for this past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Humphreys are now all eligible for the Rule 5 draft , which takes place Dec. 10 .
Canario , 20 , had major shoulder surgery earlier this month to repair a labrum tear and won ’ t be ready for the scheduled Opening Day of the 2021 minor league season .
The injury took place during the final week of the Giants ’ instructional league .
Castro , 21 , pitched for Salem-Keizer in the short season Northwest League in 2019 , going 5-3 with a 2.66 ERA in 67 2/2 innings .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the Giants organization since 2016 .
He pitched for the San Jose Giants in 2019 and went 3-5 with a 3.83 ERA in 56 1/3 innings .
Sign up for Kerry Crowley ’ s free new newsletter and podcast .
Santos , 21 , pitched for Single-A Augusta in 2019 and went 1-5 with a 2.86 ERA in 34 2/3 innings .
• How the Giants ’ 2020 season shaped their recruiting pitch to free agents • How the San Francisco Giants ’ Alyssa Nakken became the first female coach in MLB @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to pitch for a team that isn ’ t the San Francisco Giants • With Drew Smyly headed to the Braves , SF Giants can pivot to these left-handed options

SAN FRANCISCO — The Giants have added outfielder Alexander Canario and pitchers Kervin Castro, Camilo Doval and Gregory Santos to their 40-man roster and designated catcher Aramis Garcia, utility player Chris Shaw and pitcher Jordan Humphreys for assignment.
Shaw, 27, was drafted 31st overall out of Boston College by then-Giants general manager Bobby Evans. He played 38 games for the Giants over two years in 2018 and 2019, and hit .153 with seven RBI in 72 combined at-bats. Shaw, however, was never on the big league roster for this past 60-game season.
Canario, 20, had major shoulder surgery earlier this month to repair a labrum tear and won’t be ready for the scheduled Opening Day of the 2021 minor league season. The injury took place during the final week of the Giants’ instructional league.
Castro, 21, pitched for Salem-Keizer in the short season Northwest League in 2019, going 5-3 with a 2.66 ERA in 67 2/2 innings. Doval, 23, has been pitching in the Giants organization since 2016. He pitched for the San Jose Giants in 2019 and went 3-5 with a 3.83 ERA in 56 1/3 innings.
Sign up for Kerry Crowley’s free new newsletter and podcast.
Santos, 21, pitched for Single-A Augusta in 2019 and went 1-5 with a 2.86 ERA in 34 2/3 innings.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--After Trump meeting, Mich. officials say vote won’t change

WASHINGTON – Michigan ’ s Republican state legislative leaders said after meeting with President Donald Trump on Friday that they had no information that would change the outcome of the presidential election in the state , which was won by Democrat Joe Biden .
“ We have not yet been made aware of any information that would change the outcome of the election in Michigan and as legislative leaders , we will follow the law and follow the normal process regarding Michigan ’ s electors , ” Michigan Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey and House of Representatives Speaker Lee Chatfield @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is one of several states where the campaign of the Republican Trump is seeking to challenge Biden ’ s victory in the Nov. 3 election based on unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud .
Video : See what Michigan lawmakers said after Trump meeting Before Friday ’ s meeting , White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said : “ This is not an advocacy meeting .
There will be no one from the campaign there .
He routinely meets with lawmakers from all across the country.
” Shirkey and Chatfield said any allegation of election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Michigan ’ s certification process should be a deliberate process free from threats and intimidation , ” they said .

By Steve Holland, Alexandra Alper and Eric Beech | Reuters
WASHINGTON – Michigan’s Republican state legislative leaders said after meeting with President Donald Trump on Friday that they had no information that would change the outcome of the presidential election in the state, which was won by Democrat Joe Biden.
“We have not yet been made aware of any information that would change the outcome of the election in Michigan and as legislative leaders, we will follow the law and follow the normal process regarding Michigan’s electors,” Michigan Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey and House of Representatives Speaker Lee Chatfield said in a joint statement.
Michigan is one of several states where the campaign of the Republican Trump is seeking to challenge Biden’s victory in the Nov. 3 election based on unsubstantiated claims of voter fraud.
[vemba-video id=”politics/2020/11/21/michigan-lawmakers-trump-meeting-erin-burnett-monologue-ebof-vpx.cnn”]
Video: See what Michigan lawmakers said after Trump meeting
Before Friday’s meeting, White House spokeswoman Kayleigh McEnany said: “This is not an advocacy meeting. There will be no one from the campaign there. He routinely meets with lawmakers from all across the country.”
Shirkey and Chatfield said any allegation of election fraud should be thoroughly investigated. “Michigan’s certification process should be a deliberate process free from threats and intimidation,” they said.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Man grazed by bullet in East Oakland shooting

OAKLAND — Police were at the scene of an injury shooting in an East Oakland neighborhood Friday afternoon , authorities @ @ @ @ @ , police responded to reports of ShotSpotter activity in the 1600 block of 98th Street @ @ @ @ @ Cox neighborhood..
When officers arrived , they found a man who had been grazed and @ @ @ @ @ and provided him care .
His condition was not immediately known .
Other officers arrived @ @ @ @ @ mid-block and at 100th Avenue to help process the scene and recover multiple casings .
@ @ @ @ @ , a police officer said late Friday afternoon .
For information leading to the arrest @ @ @ @ @ are offering up to $ 5,000 in each shooting .
Anyone with information may call @ @ @ @ @ Stoppers of Oakland at 510-777-8572 .

OAKLAND — Police were at the scene of injury shootings in East Oakland neighborhoods Friday, authorities said.
At 3:27 p.m., police responded to reports of ShotSpotter activity in the 1600 block of 98th Avenue in the city’s Cox neighborhood..
When officers arrived, they found a 20-year-old man who had been grazed and wounded by a bullet, and provided him care. His condition was not immediately known.
Other officers arrived and blocked off Walnut at mid-block and at 100th Avenue to help process the scene and recover multiple casings.
No motive has been determined yet and no arrests have been made.
Shortly after 9:35 p.m., police responded to reports of ShotSpotter activity in the 1700 block of 79th Avenue in the city’s Arroyo Viejo neighborhood.
When officers arrived, they found at least one vehicle with multiple bullet strikes and marks and a blood trail along a Lockwood Street sidewalk.
Two men who had been shot were able to get their own transportation to a hospital.
One of them, a 29-year-old man, was wounded in the buttocks and the other man, whose age was not available, was shot in the leg, authorities said.
They were initially listed in stable condition.
Police have not said if the two men knew each other or what the motive for the shooting was. No arrests have been made.
For information leading to the arrest of a suspect, police are offering up to $5,000 in each shooting. Anyone with information may call police at 510-238-3426 or Crime Stoppers of Oakland at 510-777-8572.
Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes tries to block evidence

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes is trying to block federal prosecutors from using a group of documents against her , as her criminal fraud case heads toward a spring trial date .
The 13 documents in question were given by Theranos to the Securities and Exchange Commission while the commission was investigating the company , and contain communications with a law firm , according to a filing by prosecutors Friday in U.S. District Court in San Jose .
Holmes , the former CEO of the defunct Palo Alto blood-testing startup , claims the documents can ’ t be introduced as evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law firm and herself that is protected from disclosure under the legal principle of attorney-client privilege , the filing said .
“ Holmes has made it clear that she intends to assert broad , individual privilege claims over certain documents and information in this case , including 13 of the documents identified on the government ’ s exhibit list , ” according to the filing .
“ The burden falls on Holmes to prove that her claimed privilege is valid.
” For attorney-client privilege to apply , the documents would have to represent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm , but “ the communications in question related to corporate matters , ” prosecutors argued .
“ It would have been strange indeed for Holmes to expressly ask for personal legal advice on matters of corporate interest as opposed to seeking such guidance in her capacity as chief executive of the company.
” Holmes ’ lawyer Lance Wade has demanded that the government remove the documents from its list of exhibits to be introduced as evidence in the trial , scheduled to start in March .
“ The inclusion of such documents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ … suggests a blatant disregard for both government counsel ’ s obligations … and the safeguards of the privilege and work-product protections that Ms. Holmes and Theranos enjoy under applicable law , ” Wade said in a July 30 letter to prosecutors , filed by the prosecution .
“ The government ’ s continued use of such material … raises issues of fundamental fairness and due process because it places Ms. Holmes at a significant disadvantage as she prepares her defense in this case.
” In a Sept. 22 letter to prosecutors , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Boies Schiller Flexner , had represented Holmes personally .
• Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes ’ scattershot bid to nix charges goes down hard Holmes , a Stanford University dropout , and former Theranos president Sunny Balwani , are charged with a dozen felony fraud counts .
They ’ re accused of bilking investors out of hundreds of millions of dollars , and defrauding doctors and patients , with false claims that the company ’ s machines could conduct a full range of tests using just a few drops of blood .
The two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Holmes arguing in a court filing that the government ’ s case was “ unconstitutionally vague ” and lacked specific claims of misrepresentation .
In a March 2018 settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission , Holmes agreed to pay a $ 500,000 fine , but did not admit to the SEC ’ s allegation that she had misled investors .

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes is trying to block federal prosecutors from using a group of documents against her, as her criminal fraud case heads toward a spring trial date.
The 13 documents in question were given by Theranos to the Securities and Exchange Commission while the commission was investigating the company, and contain communications with a law firm, according to a filing by prosecutors Friday in U.S. District Court in San Jose.
Holmes, the former CEO of the defunct Palo Alto blood-testing startup, claims the documents can’t be introduced as evidence because they represent confidential correspondence between the law firm and herself that is protected from disclosure under the legal principle of attorney-client privilege, the filing said.
“Holmes has made it clear that she intends to assert broad, individual privilege claims over certain documents and information in this case, including 13 of the documents identified on the government’s exhibit list,” according to the filing. “The burden falls on Holmes to prove that her claimed privilege is valid.”
For attorney-client privilege to apply, the documents would have to represent personal matters between Holmes and the law firm, but “the communications in question related to corporate matters,” prosecutors argued. “It would have been strange indeed for Holmes to expressly ask for personal legal advice on matters of corporate interest as opposed to seeking such guidance in her capacity as chief executive of the company.”
Holmes’ lawyer Lance Wade has demanded that the government remove the documents from its list of exhibits to be introduced as evidence in the trial, scheduled to start in March. “The inclusion of such documents on the government’s exhibit list … suggests a blatant disregard for both government counsel’s obligations … and the safeguards of the privilege and work-product protections that Ms. Holmes and Theranos enjoy under applicable law,” Wade said in a July 30 letter to prosecutors, filed by the prosecution.
“The government’s continued use of such material … raises issues of fundamental fairness and due process because it places Ms. Holmes at a significant disadvantage as she prepares her defense in this case.”
In a Sept. 22 letter to prosecutors, Wade asserted that the law firm, Boies Schiller Flexner, had represented Holmes personally.
Related Articles Technology | Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes to claim mental condition affecting ‘issue of guilt’
Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes to claim mental condition affecting ‘issue of guilt’ Technology | Theranos founder Holmes hit with 12th fraud charge — again
Theranos founder Holmes hit with 12th fraud charge — again Technology | Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes’ scattershot bid to nix charges goes down hard Holmes, a Stanford University dropout, and former Theranos president Sunny Balwani, are charged with a dozen felony fraud counts. They’re accused of bilking investors out of hundreds of millions of dollars, and defrauding doctors and patients, with false claims that the company’s machines could conduct a full range of tests using just a few drops of blood. The two have denied the allegations, with lawyers for Holmes arguing in a court filing that the government’s case was “unconstitutionally vague” and lacked specific claims of misrepresentation.
In a March 2018 settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Holmes agreed to pay a $500,000 fine, but did not admit to the SEC’s allegation that she had misled investors.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Teens are the youngest volunteers in COVID-19 vaccine trials

Teenagers won ’ t be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine when adults do , because there ’ s not yet proof of safety and efficacy .
But teen volunteers such as San Jose ’ s Allyson Eisenman are bringing it within closer reach , participating in a Kaiser study that could accelerate the vaccine ’ s potential use in young people .
“ I really wanted to do what I can help us get out of this ” pandemic , said Eisenman,17 , “ and hopefully get back to what will be the new normal .
“ I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” she confessed .
“ But it was like any other shot.
” Until now , vaccination has focused on adults .
Why ?
It ’ s because they fare worse than adolescents when infected — and also because that ’ s how research is traditionally conducted .
Vaccine and drug testing in youth typically starts only after a product is proven completely safe and effective in adults .
Yet pediatricians say it is essential for teens to be included , early on , in COVID-19 vaccine testing .
Cases are climbing in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thousands of illnesses and over 100 deaths reported since the pandemic ’ s early days .
Without research , it ’ s not known if they will respond as adults do .
Children aren ’ t just miniature adults — they may experience different side effects or require smaller doses .
“ We know that teenagers can get infected .
We know that everyone is susceptible to this disease , ” said Dr. Nicola Klein , director of the Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center and principal investigator for the trial in Northern California @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not thought to get as much disease , ” she said , “ but they do get disease , and they do transmit .
It has really impacted their lives , just like it ’ s impacted everyone else in the world.
” In September , the American Academy of Pediatrics wrote a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services and Food and Drug Administration urging vaccine research in children .
Allyson and others are enrolled in a trial with Pfizer Inc. , the first pharmaceutical company in the United States @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test its vaccine on children as young as 12 .
The second promising vaccine , made by Moderna , is not yet slated for testing in youth .
Pfizer recently announced preliminary results showing their vaccines appear more than 90 % effective , at least for short-term protection against the virus .
The FDA will evaluate the data — collected from adults — in December and could quickly give the go-ahead to distribution of limited , rationed supplies .
Youth will be offered the vaccine only after their trial results are analyzed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 100 youth between the ages of 16 and 17 at its Santa Clara and Sacramento facilities .
Over the next several weeks , the trial will be expanded to include 100 younger teens , ages 12 to 15 .
The overall goal for the Pfizer trial is to enroll a total of 2,000 adolescents .
“ We should have a vaccine for children .
Children can die of this virus , ” said Dr. Paul A. Offit , director of the Vaccine Education Center and professor of pediatrics in the Division of Infectious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Philadelphia .
“ The number of children who died of this virus last year was about the same number as children who died from the flu .
And we consider that worthy of prevention.
” If immunization rolls out safely in adults , children should not be injected with inactive placebo , added Offit at a Friday briefing at the National Press Foundation .
Instead , the study should convert to a so-called “ wedge trial , ” with a steady increase in the number of young volunteers , then comparing their response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s mother and father , with careers in nursing and information technology , had already been in the vaccine trial and supported Allyson ’ s decision to sign up after experiencing no ill effects other than lethargy .
“ This is our chance to contribute to the situation , ” said Jeff Eisenman in a Friday news briefing .
“ We ’ ve seen — whether it ’ s measles or polio – that vaccines work , ” he said .
“ My opinion is someone needs to do it .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial is “ placebo-controlled ” — with half the participants getting the vaccine and the other half getting an inactive agent — Allyson doesn ’ t know whether she ’ s protected .
She was given two doses , 21 days apart .
To be safe , the Branham High School junior still wears a mask and socially distances at her gymnastics practices and during meetings of her Girls Scouts troop .
• Senior Living : Long-term care workers , grieving and under siege , brace for COVID ’ s next round Once @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kaiser .
She reports her temperature and any symptoms on a Kaiser app .
She ’ ll be followed for two years .
“ It ’ s easy , ” she said .
“ I ’ m not really a science person , ” she admitted .
“ That is definitely my worst subject of my freshman year .
“ But the health and safety of those around me is important to me , ” she said .
“ And so that ’ s what influenced me to contribute .
”

Teenagers won’t be able to get a COVID-19 vaccine when adults do, because there’s not yet proof of safety and efficacy.
But teen volunteers such as San Jose’s Allyson Eisenman are bringing it within closer reach, participating in a Kaiser study that could accelerate the vaccine’s potential use in young people.
“I really wanted to do what I can help us get out of this” pandemic, said Eisenman,17, “and hopefully get back to what will be the new normal.
“I’m not the best with needles,” she confessed. “But it was like any other shot.”
Until now, vaccination has focused on adults. Why? It’s because they fare worse than adolescents when infected — and also because that’s how research is traditionally conducted. Vaccine and drug testing in youth typically starts only after a product is proven completely safe and effective in adults.
Yet pediatricians say it is essential for teens to be included, early on, in COVID-19 vaccine testing. Cases are climbing in young people, they say, with thousands of illnesses and over 100 deaths reported since the pandemic’s early days.
Without research, it’s not known if they will respond as adults do. Children aren’t just miniature adults — they may experience different side effects or require smaller doses.
“We know that teenagers can get infected. We know that everyone is susceptible to this disease,” said Dr. Nicola Klein, director of the Kaiser Permanente Vaccine Study Center and principal investigator for the trial in Northern California.
“Teenagers and younger children are not thought to get as much disease,” she said, “but they do get disease, and they do transmit. It has really impacted their lives, just like it’s impacted everyone else in the world.”
In September, the American Academy of Pediatrics wrote a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services and Food and Drug Administration urging vaccine research in children.
Allyson and others are enrolled in a trial with Pfizer Inc., the first pharmaceutical company in the United States to receive approval from the FDA to test its vaccine on children as young as 12. The second promising vaccine, made by Moderna, is not yet slated for testing in youth.
Pfizer recently announced preliminary results showing their vaccines appear more than 90% effective, at least for short-term protection against the virus.
The FDA will evaluate the data — collected from adults — in December and could quickly give the go-ahead to distribution of limited, rationed supplies. Youth will be offered the vaccine only after their trial results are analyzed.
Kaiser aims to test the vaccine in 100 youth between the ages of 16 and 17 at its Santa Clara and Sacramento facilities. Over the next several weeks, the trial will be expanded to include 100 younger teens, ages 12 to 15. The overall goal for the Pfizer trial is to enroll a total of 2,000 adolescents.
“We should have a vaccine for children. Children can die of this virus,” said Dr. Paul A. Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center and professor of pediatrics in the Division of Infectious Diseases at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. “The number of children who died of this virus last year was about the same number as children who died from the flu. And we consider that worthy of prevention.”
If immunization rolls out safely in adults, children should not be injected with inactive placebo, added Offit at a Friday briefing at the National Press Foundation. Instead, the study should convert to a so-called “wedge trial,” with a steady increase in the number of young volunteers, then comparing their response to that in unvaccinated youth.
Allyson’s mother and father, with careers in nursing and information technology, had already been in the vaccine trial and supported Allyson’s decision to sign up after experiencing no ill effects other than lethargy.
“This is our chance to contribute to the situation,” said Jeff Eisenman in a Friday news briefing.
“We’ve seen — whether it’s measles or polio – that vaccines work,” he said. “My opinion is someone needs to do it. There needs to be volunteers.”
Because the trial is “placebo-controlled” — with half the participants getting the vaccine and the other half getting an inactive agent — Allyson doesn’t know whether she’s protected. She was given two doses, 21 days apart.
To be safe, the Branham High School junior still wears a mask and socially distances at her gymnastics practices and during meetings of her Girls Scouts troop.
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Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge Once a week, she checks in with Kaiser. She reports her temperature and any symptoms on a Kaiser app. She’ll be followed for two years. “It’s easy,” she said.
“I’m not really a science person,” she admitted. “That is definitely my worst subject of my freshman year.
“But the health and safety of those around me is important to me,” she said. “And so that’s what influenced me to contribute.”


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Review: ‘Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War’ treads familiar path

Although the “ Call of Duty ” seems like a monolithic franchise , it actually contains different eras and subseries .
The early games focused on World War II , where the series established itself .
It became a gaming phenomenon when it moved to “ Modern Warfare ” and starred characters such Capt .
John Price and Soap MacTavish .
“ Call of Duty ” has has other iterations in between but arguably the most beloved line is “ Black Ops.
” It ’ s the subseries , in which Treyarch established itself as the lead developer of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also set the standard for the robust multiplayer experience that fans have come to expect .
With “ Call of Duty : Black Ops Cold War , ” Treyarch and Raven Software again return to the world of espionage .
Set in the 1980s , it follows a new character named Bell , who is part of a special unit hunting an infamous Russian spy named Perseus .
The operative has been responsible for major incidents in the Cold War and his re-emergence alarms the intelligence community .
Over 17 chapters containing 12 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global campaign to stop Perseus ’ plans to obtain a nuclear weapon .
Although Bell is the star , “ Black Ops Cold War ” switches perspectives to fan favorite characters such as Alex Mason and newer cast members such as Russian double agent Dimitri Belikov .
The shift gives players a mix of familiar run and gun missions while also introducing more stealth-oriented gameplay filled with cloak and dagger tactics .
These chapters not only provide a needed change of pace from the firefights and explosions , but they also expand the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cold War ” has a surprising amount of puzzle elements and exploration involved as Bell and the team led by Russ Adler infiltrate Berlin and Moscow in search of clues to Perseus .
The stealth component lets them explore a detailed world that contains diversions like playable arcade machines and secret collectibles called “ evidence , ” which is used for the two side quests .
These pieces of intel deepen the story for careful explorers and they also get the player invested in the campaign .
Tying the evidence to side missions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ way of scattering collectibles in the game .
It feels more organic and rewarding as the developers weave the subseries ’ trademark puzzles into the hub area .
“ Black Ops Cold War ” borrows a lot of the paranoia and misdirection from the original and tries to incorporate it in the new entry .
This obvious intention makes the plot more predictable .
It ’ s like knowing the story beats of an M. Night Shyamalan movie because you ’ ve watched his other films .
Players can see the big revelations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the campaign , a few choices matter , and how players react will have implications on the ending they ’ ll get .
Although the stealthier moments , puzzles and the bigger action set pieces should be appreciated , the single-player mode is held back by a plot that feels like a retread of the past games .
On the multiplayer side , “ Black Ops Cold War ” is more successful .
It ’ s packed with plenty of modes and formats that will cater to a wide range of tastes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s familiar , they can fire up a playlist with eight competitive rule sets .
They ’ ll compete in everything from the reliable Team Deathmatch to the familiar Kill Confirmed .
One of the bigger updates to the competitive multiplayer is the change in scorestreaks .
Now if players die , they keep the points toward awards .
This opens up the game for players who may not be as skilled or die often .
It lets them call on tide-turning power-ups for their team and feel like they ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a great move that opens up this part of the game to more people .
It also adds an interesting strategic element as players can save the rewards for pivotal moments in a match or they can use it almost like a comeback mechanic when combined with other teammates .
If the competitive scene isn ’ t your thing , “ Blacks Ops Cold War ” has a Zombie mode .
In the normal offering , a squad of four tries to hold out as long as they can against an unrelenting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the squad ventures through the map and uncovers the secrets behind the rifts that spawn these monsters .
It ’ s a fun experience as long as you have reliable teammates .
“ Black Ops Cold War ” also offers a smaller Zombie mode called Onslaught .
This is where a team of two battle the undead across a map and follow an orb that grants a safe zone amid the necrotic miasma .
On the opposite end , Fireteam is a new mode to the multiplayer roster .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams of four against each other .
It has the open-world feel of a battle royale game but with objective-based missions .
With vehicles on hand and huge area to explore , Fireteam has a feel of a “ Battlefield ” game , but the experience is too chaotic and the developers don ’ t teach players much about the feature .
The last mode is Warzone , but it will launch later .
The popular battle royale mode will undoubtedly be the biggest draw in the changing multiplayer realm .
At this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day .
With so many options for play though , players will find something that suits them though the developers will need to add more maps and content to keep this part of the game from going stale .

Although the “Call of Duty” seems like a monolithic franchise, it actually contains different eras and subseries. The early games focused on World War II, where the series established itself. It became a gaming phenomenon when it moved to “Modern Warfare” and starred characters such Capt. John Price and Soap MacTavish.
“Call of Duty” has has other iterations in between but arguably the most beloved line is “Black Ops.” It’s the subseries, in which Treyarch established itself as the lead developer of a franchise that Infinity Ward started. It also set the standard for the robust multiplayer experience that fans have come to expect.
Players will battle across several maps that include locales in Berlin, Moscow, Miami and beyond in "Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War." (Activision)
"Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War" Zombie mode is updated with more ferocious creatures. (Activision)
"Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War" has a little bit of something for everyone, including a solid single-player campaign and a diverse set of multiplayer modes such as Fireteam. (Activision)
Fan favorite characters such as Frank Woods return in "Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War." (Activision
The competitive multiplayer is as addictive as ever in "Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War." (Activision)
The bow is a useful weapon to take out enemies silently in "Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War." (Activision)
"Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War" Zombie mode is updated with more ferocious creatures. (Activision)
With “Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War,” Treyarch and Raven Software again return to the world of espionage. Set in the 1980s, it follows a new character named Bell, who is part of a special unit hunting an infamous Russian spy named Perseus. The operative has been responsible for major incidents in the Cold War and his re-emergence alarms the intelligence community.
Over 17 chapters containing 12 playable missions, players embark on a global campaign to stop Perseus’ plans to obtain a nuclear weapon. Although Bell is the star, “Black Ops Cold War” switches perspectives to fan favorite characters such as Alex Mason and newer cast members such as Russian double agent Dimitri Belikov.
The shift gives players a mix of familiar run and gun missions while also introducing more stealth-oriented gameplay filled with cloak and dagger tactics. These chapters not only provide a needed change of pace from the firefights and explosions, but they also expand the diversity of experiences.
“Black Ops Cold War” has a surprising amount of puzzle elements and exploration involved as Bell and the team led by Russ Adler infiltrate Berlin and Moscow in search of clues to Perseus. The stealth component lets them explore a detailed world that contains diversions like playable arcade machines and secret collectibles called “evidence,” which is used for the two side quests.
These pieces of intel deepen the story for careful explorers and they also get the player invested in the campaign. Tying the evidence to side missions and worthwhile content is a much better way of scattering collectibles in the game. It feels more organic and rewarding as the developers weave the subseries’ trademark puzzles into the hub area.
“Black Ops Cold War” borrows a lot of the paranoia and misdirection from the original and tries to incorporate it in the new entry. This obvious intention makes the plot more predictable. It’s like knowing the story beats of an M. Night Shyamalan movie because you’ve watched his other films. Players can see the big revelations coming from a mile away.
In the campaign, a few choices matter, and how players react will have implications on the ending they’ll get. Although the stealthier moments, puzzles and the bigger action set pieces should be appreciated, the single-player mode is held back by a plot that feels like a retread of the past games.
On the multiplayer side, “Black Ops Cold War” is more successful. It’s packed with plenty of modes and formats that will cater to a wide range of tastes. If players want to stick with what’s familiar, they can fire up a playlist with eight competitive rule sets. They’ll compete in everything from the reliable Team Deathmatch to the familiar Kill Confirmed.
One of the bigger updates to the competitive multiplayer is the change in scorestreaks. Now if players die, they keep the points toward awards. This opens up the game for players who may not be as skilled or die often. It lets them call on tide-turning power-ups for their team and feel like they’re contributing to a win. It’s a great move that opens up this part of the game to more people. It also adds an interesting strategic element as players can save the rewards for pivotal moments in a match or they can use it almost like a comeback mechanic when combined with other teammates.
If the competitive scene isn’t your thing, “Blacks Ops Cold War” has a Zombie mode. In the normal offering, a squad of four tries to hold out as long as they can against an unrelenting horde of undead. Teamwork is essential as the squad ventures through the map and uncovers the secrets behind the rifts that spawn these monsters. It’s a fun experience as long as you have reliable teammates.
“Black Ops Cold War” also offers a smaller Zombie mode called Onslaught. This is where a team of two battle the undead across a map and follow an orb that grants a safe zone amid the necrotic miasma.
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The last mode is Warzone, but it will launch later. The popular battle royale mode will undoubtedly be the biggest draw in the changing multiplayer realm. At this point, the multiplayer mode carries the day. With so many options for play though, players will find something that suits them though the developers will need to add more maps and content to keep this part of the game from going stale.
‘Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
Three stars
Platform: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC
Rating: Mature


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Hawaii imposes new COVID-19 travel restrictions

Anyone flying to Hawaii will be required to have a negative COVID-19 test result prior to their departure for the state , with the new rule going into effect two days before Thanksgiving , Gov .
David Ige announced Thursday .
Until now , passengers flying to the islands using a pre-travel testing program were permitted to arrive and then upload their negative test results to a state database , allowing them to skip two weeks of quarantine .
However , some travelers who arrived in Hawaii without their test results wound up later testing positive .
That , in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ige said at a news conference , The new program goes into effect Tuesday , just ahead of the holiday .
To bypass the 14-day quarantine , travelers must have the correct type of COVID-19 negative test results from one of the state ’ s trusted testing partners , Ige said .
• Teens are the youngest volunteers in COVID-19 vaccine trials • Senior Living : Long-term care workers , grieving and under siege , brace for COVID ’ s next round “ If test results are not available before boarding the final @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must quarantine for 14 days or the length of the stay , whichever runs shorter , ” he said .
Those who arrive without having their negative test results before departure will not be able to skip quarantine , even if their negative results become available shortly after they arrive .
Passengers have always had the option to not get tested at all and quarantine in their hotel rooms or homes upon arrival .
Travelers will continue to have that option .

Anyone flying to Hawaii will be required to have a negative COVID-19 test result prior to their departure for the state, with the new rule going into effect two days before Thanksgiving, Gov. David Ige announced Thursday.
Until now, passengers flying to the islands using a pre-travel testing program were permitted to arrive and then upload their negative test results to a state database, allowing them to skip two weeks of quarantine.
However, some travelers who arrived in Hawaii without their test results wound up later testing positive. That, in part, prompted the rule change, Ige said at a news conference,
The new program goes into effect Tuesday, just ahead of the holiday.
To bypass the 14-day quarantine, travelers must have the correct type of COVID-19 negative test results from one of the state’s trusted testing partners, Ige said.
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Those who arrive without having their negative test results before departure will not be able to skip quarantine, even if their negative results become available shortly after they arrive.
Passengers have always had the option to not get tested at all and quarantine in their hotel rooms or homes upon arrival. Travelers will continue to have that option.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Borenstein: More will die from COVID because of timid Newsom response

This past week , Gov .
Gavin Newsom ceded moral authority to guide California out of the depths of the pandemic .
More people likely will die because of his timid leadership .
The week began with news that Newsom had earlier this month attended a 12-person dinner for a lobbyist friend at a tony Napa Valley restaurant , violating his own guideline — now mandate — against gatherings of more than three households .
The week ended with the usually loquacious governor who rarely shies from television cameras announcing via press release a head-scratching curfew — and then sending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explain the elusive rationale for a policy that lacked supporting data .
As California cases are surging , the cooler weather is driving more people indoors where the virus spreads more easily , and the holiday season that will bring too many unsafe family gatherings begins , tough measures are needed to slow COVID-19 .
But Newsom effectively sidelined himself with the dinner debacle at French Laundry in Yountville .
After months of urging caution , the governor undermined his credibility , reinforcing criticism that he ’ s just another “ do as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” elite politician more interested in hobnobbing with lobbyists than leading by example .
It couldn ’ t come at a worse time .
More than ever during the pandemic , the state needs a governor positioned to take decisive action to slow the virus spread .
But rather than mandating quarantines as other states have done to prevent interstate travelers from spreading the disease in California , he issued a travel advisory merely urging that people self-quarantine .
Then , on Monday , he “ pulled an emergency brake ” on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was weeks overdue but merely a dialing back for much of the state in the governor ’ s color-coded rating system .
Newsom continues to adjust his rheostat rather than making the politically tough , but necessary , decision to flip the switch .
Like back in March , we need to quickly flatten the curve to keep the virus from overwhelming our hospitals and leaving mounting carnage in its wake .
“ The virus is spreading at a pace we haven ’ t seen since the start of this pandemic , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be critical to stop the surge .
We are sounding the alarm , ” Newsom said in the press release .
He ’ s right .
But his actions don ’ t reflect the urgency .
Unlike leaders in Europe , U.S. officials are unwilling to return to tough restrictions we lived with in the spring .
“ Pandemic fatigue ” has set in , we ’ re told .
Yes , there is fatigue — and exasperation that some , starting with President Trump , still refuse to acknowledge the deadliness of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ precautions like masks and the reality that the economy will not recover until coronavirus is controlled .
This is the time when governors such as Newsom need to spend political capital — to take necessary but perhaps unpopular steps — to protect the health of state residents .
Unfortunately , Newsom wasted much of his political capital dining out with his buddies .
So rather than imposing tough restrictions , the governor ’ s office announced a “ limited stay-at-home order ” requiring that non-essential work , movement and gatherings stop in counties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 90 % of Californians .
But the order only applies from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m .
It should be around the clock .
Dr. Mark Ghaly , the secretary of health and human services , was left to explain the rationale .
He suggested to me that those are the hours when risky behavior is most likely to occur .
But when pressed , he acknowledged that he has no data to back that up .
Here we are nine months into this crisis , and the governor and his advisers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on science and data , are instead driven by politics and hunches .
As Ghaly acknowledged , the spread is greatest in places where people congregate indoors .
We ’ re talking about restaurants , bars , gyms , churches , political rallies and family gatherings .
Some of that activity occurs between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m .
But the coronavirus is not necessarily nocturnal .
It can spread at any hour .
Ghaly said he ’ ll be watching California ’ s virus transmission data , and tougher steps might be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governor continue to be reactive rather than proactive .
“ Thanksgiving is going to be an important and challenging time on a number of fronts , ” Ghaly said .
It ’ s too bad more steps haven ’ t been taken to prepare for it .

This past week, Gov. Gavin Newsom ceded moral authority to guide California out of the depths of the pandemic. More people likely will die because of his timid leadership.
The week began with news that Newsom had earlier this month attended a 12-person dinner for a lobbyist friend at a tony Napa Valley restaurant, violating his own guideline — now mandate — against gatherings of more than three households.
The week ended with the usually loquacious governor who rarely shies from television cameras announcing via press release a head-scratching curfew — and then sending his health secretary out to try to explain the elusive rationale for a policy that lacked supporting data.
As California cases are surging, the cooler weather is driving more people indoors where the virus spreads more easily, and the holiday season that will bring too many unsafe family gatherings begins, tough measures are needed to slow COVID-19.
But Newsom effectively sidelined himself with the dinner debacle at French Laundry in Yountville. After months of urging caution, the governor undermined his credibility, reinforcing criticism that he’s just another “do as I say, not as I do” elite politician more interested in hobnobbing with lobbyists than leading by example.
It couldn’t come at a worse time.
More than ever during the pandemic, the state needs a governor positioned to take decisive action to slow the virus spread. But rather than mandating quarantines as other states have done to prevent interstate travelers from spreading the disease in California, he issued a travel advisory merely urging that people self-quarantine.
Then, on Monday, he “pulled an emergency brake” on the state’s reopening plan. It was weeks overdue but merely a dialing back for much of the state in the governor’s color-coded rating system. Newsom continues to adjust his rheostat rather than making the politically tough, but necessary, decision to flip the switch.
Like back in March, we need to quickly flatten the curve to keep the virus from overwhelming our hospitals and leaving mounting carnage in its wake.
“The virus is spreading at a pace we haven’t seen since the start of this pandemic, and the next several days and weeks will be critical to stop the surge. We are sounding the alarm,” Newsom said in the press release.
He’s right. But his actions don’t reflect the urgency.
Unlike leaders in Europe, U.S. officials are unwilling to return to tough restrictions we lived with in the spring. “Pandemic fatigue” has set in, we’re told. Yes, there is fatigue — and exasperation that some, starting with President Trump, still refuse to acknowledge the deadliness of the disease, the need for basic precautions like masks and the reality that the economy will not recover until coronavirus is controlled.
This is the time when governors such as Newsom need to spend political capital — to take necessary but perhaps unpopular steps — to protect the health of state residents. Unfortunately, Newsom wasted much of his political capital dining out with his buddies.
So rather than imposing tough restrictions, the governor’s office announced a “limited stay-at-home order” requiring that non-essential work, movement and gatherings stop in counties in the purple tier, affecting about 90% of Californians.
But the order only applies from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. It should be around the clock.
Dr. Mark Ghaly, the secretary of health and human services, was left to explain the rationale. He suggested to me that those are the hours when risky behavior is most likely to occur. But when pressed, he acknowledged that he has no data to back that up.
Here we are nine months into this crisis, and the governor and his advisers, who claim to be making decisions based on science and data, are instead driven by politics and hunches.
As Ghaly acknowledged, the spread is greatest in places where people congregate indoors. We’re talking about restaurants, bars, gyms, churches, political rallies and family gatherings. Some of that activity occurs between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. But the coronavirus is not necessarily nocturnal. It can spread at any hour.
Ghaly said he’ll be watching California’s virus transmission data, and tougher steps might be coming. Unfortunately, he and the governor continue to be reactive rather than proactive.
“Thanksgiving is going to be an important and challenging time on a number of fronts,” Ghaly said. It’s too bad more steps haven’t been taken to prepare for it.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Rekindled rivalry finds Raiders seeking unlikely sweep of defending champion Chiefs

It ’ s a rivalry again , and all it took to rekindle the Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs as must-see T.V .
was an upset win followed with a ‘ victory lap ’ in chartered buses around Arrowhead Stadium .
The whole bus thing is much ado about nothing , but it ’ s interesting Chiefs coach Andy Reid Monday mentioned it at all _ twice , in fact — and then the organization on the same day followed up on Twitter by proclaiming “ We ’ ll let our play do the talking ” with two photos of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raiders .
Set aside for a moment the flawed concept of the Chiefs letting their play do the talking and posting that message on a medium which invites taunting .
It appears the Raiders to some degree got under the skin of a team which has beaten them to a pulp more often than not since Reid was hired in 2013 .
Having lost four times to the Chiefs by a combined score of 144-53 since Jon Gruden came back in 2018 , the Raiders can be forgiven for a little postgame rejoicing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win , and even in the days leading up to the game quarterback Derek Carr reminded people you can ’ t call it a rivalry when one team wins all the time .
The Raiders aren ’ t expected to win the rematch at home Sunday night ( 5:20 p.m. ) either , especially after practicing all week without 10 defensive players on the COVID-19 reserve list .
It would surprise no one if Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw for 400-plus yards and the Raiders simply couldn ’ t keep up with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are coming off a bye , and Reid is 18-3 as head coach with the Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles after byes .
The last time Kansas City lost to a team other than the Raiders was Nov. 10 , 2019 against Tennessee .
But by virtue of a 6-3 record and 3-0 in the AFC West , the Raiders have earned the right to be taken seriously .
Beating the Chiefs ( 8-1 , 2-2 ) would put them within a game of the division lead and owning the division tiebreaker by virtue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ five ways it could happen : In an age where passing is emphasized , time of possession can be a non-factor .
But it ’ s huge for the Raiders , who dominated the second half against the Chiefs with more than 20 minutes of time of possession .
It helped keep Mahomes and his dangerous set of receivers on the sideline where they can do no damage .
The Raiders are coming off a game where they controlled the clock for an absurd 13:28 of the third quarter against Denver , after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Raiders had Carr simply turn and hand the ball off and a rested defense picked through the Broncos ’ carcass , forcing five turnovers in all .
That means Kansas City can expect a heavy dose of Josh Jacobs with eight to 10 carries for Devontae Booker .
The Chiefs are ranked No .
27 defensively in rushing yardage ( 138.4 per game ) .
The Raiders ran for 35 times for 144 yards in the first meeting at Arrowhead .
The Raiders ’ 50.4 percentage at converting third downs leads the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Raiders lack of passing yardage the last three games ( 143.3 yards per game ) .
They still know how .
They just didn ’ t need to , and Gruden is inclined to keep running the ball whenever the opportunity presents itself .
Take away a few potential big-play drops against Denver and Carr ’ s game balloons in terms of passing stats .
A quality opponent such as Kansas City will demand something closer to a 50-50 split of run-pass as opposed to the 112 runs and 72 passes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raiders are still looking to get some serious yardage figures out of tight end Darren Waller , plus they ’ ve got Hunter Renfrow , Nelson Agholor and rookie Bryan Edwards , who reintroduced himself briefly against Denver with a reception Which brings us to .
.
.
The numbers of wide receiver Henry Ruggs III ( 13 receptions for 251 yards ) aren ’ t among rookie leaders other than yards per catch .
But he torched the Chiefs for two catches and 118 yards in the first meeting and totally changed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu said of Ruggs ” he ’ s one of those guys that , if he ’ s even , he ’ s leavin.
” Mathieu , who last year described the Raiders offense as a predictable series of checkdowns and underneath routes , had this to say about the way they operate with Ruggs in the lineup : “ On the back end , how do we stop those big shots they love to take ?
, ” Mathieu said .
Said Gruden : “ We ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been defended in the past .
Stats are important to some people , winning is more important to others .
We ’ re more interested in winning.
” With one interception and one lost fumble through nine games , Mahomes isn ’ t going to spew turnovers like Denver ’ s Drew Lock .
The Raiders aren ’ t going to get five takeaways , but getting two would help an awful lot .
Safety Jeff Heath , who owns the only interception against Mahomes in the first meeting and had two last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about having a mindset for the ball and being a half a step faster than you were the week before .
“ Really , in the NFL , it comes down to that , ” Heath said .
“ We ’ re talking half steps , a half-second between making a play and not making a play.
” The Raiders have a big decision to make in terms of blitzing Mahomes in hopes of forcing those turnovers .
They ’ ve gotten more pressure of late with increased blitzing , but Mahomes is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first meeting , the Raiders didn ’ t blitz much , Mahomes had the lowest completion rate of his career ( 23 of 42 , 51.1 percent ) and looked like a garden variety quarterback in the second half .
The Chiefs ’ Tyreek Hill is always a challenge , a touchdown waiting to happen .
But tight end Travis Kelce can bring about a more slow , torturous demise by getting open and repeatedly picking up first downs .
Mahomes trusts him , too .
“ It ’ s obvious when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortable throwing him the ball , ” Heath said .
“ When plays break down , he looks downfield , then he looks to ’ 87.
’ This league is filled with good tight ends and he ’ s one of the top ones.
” Kelce is far from the only weapon , but he ’ s one Gruden realizes will be a handful .
“ We ’ re going to have to be a lot better than we have been against Kelce in the past , ” Gruden said .
“ He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s dominated the league .
”

It’s a rivalry again, and all it took to rekindle the Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs as must-see T.V. was an upset win followed with a ‘victory lap’ in chartered buses around Arrowhead Stadium.
The whole bus thing is much ado about nothing, but it’s interesting Chiefs coach Andy Reid on Monday mentioned it at all — twice, in fact — and then the organization on the same day followed up on Twitter by proclaiming “We’ll let our play do the talking” with two photos of interceptions in a 2018 game against the Raiders.
We'll let our play do the talking. pic.twitter.com/yb5wVqnVVR — Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) November 17, 2020
Set aside for a moment the flawed concept of the Chiefs letting their play do the talking and posting that message on a medium that invites taunting. It appears the Raiders to some degree got under the skin of a team that has beaten them to a pulp more often than not since Reid was hired in 2013.
Having lost four times to the Chiefs by a combined score of 144-53 since Jon Gruden came back in 2018, the Raiders can be forgiven for a little postgame rejoicing. They weren’t expected to win, and even in the days leading up to the game quarterback Derek Carr reminded people you can’t call it a rivalry when one team wins all the time.
The Raiders aren’t expected to win the rematch at home Sunday night (5:20 p.m.) either, especially after practicing all week without 10 defensive players on the COVID-19 reserve. Eight of those 10 were taken off the list Friday and Saturday and can play if they pass one more coronavirus test on game day.
It would surprise no one if Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes threw for 400-plus yards and the Raiders simply couldn’t keep up with the defending Super Bowl champions.
The Chiefs are coming off a bye, and Reid is 18-3 as head coach with the Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles after byes. The last time Kansas City lost to a team other than the Raiders was Nov. 10, 2019 against Tennessee.
But by virtue of a 6-3 record and 3-0 in the AFC West, the Raiders have earned the right to be taken seriously. Beating the Chiefs (8-1, 2-1) would put them within a game of the division lead and owning the division tiebreaker by virtue of a season sweep.
Here are five ways it could happen:
1. Keep playing keepaway
In an age where passing is emphasized, time of possession can be a non-factor. But it’s huge for the Raiders, who dominated the second half against the Chiefs with more than 20 minutes of time of possession. It helped keep Mahomes and his dangerous set of receivers on the sideline where they can do no damage.
The Raiders are coming off a game where they controlled the clock for an absurd 13:28 of the third quarter against Denver, after which the Broncos defense was gassed. The Raiders had Carr simply turn and hand the ball off and a rested defense picked through the Broncos’ carcass, forcing five turnovers in all.
That means Kansas City can expect a heavy dose of Josh Jacobs with eight to 10 carries for Devontae Booker. The Chiefs are ranked No. 27 defensively in rushing yardage (138.4 per game). The Raiders ran 35 times for 144 yards in the first meeting at Arrowhead.
The Raiders’ 50.4 percentage at converting third downs leads the NFL.
2. Re-introducing the pass
Don’t be fooled by the Raiders lack of passing yardage the last three games (143.3 yards per game). They still know how. They just didn’t need to, and Gruden is inclined to keep running the ball whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Take away a few potential big-play drops against Denver and Carr’s game balloons in terms of passing stats. A quality opponent such as Kansas City will demand something closer to a 50-50 split of run-pass as opposed to the 112 runs and 72 passes over the last three games.
The Raiders are still looking to get some serious yardage figures out of tight end Darren Waller, plus they’ve got Hunter Renfrow, Nelson Agholor and rookie Bryan Edwards, who reintroduced himself briefly against Denver with a reception
Which brings us to . . .
3. A Ruggs redux
The numbers of wide receiver Henry Ruggs III (13 receptions for 251 yards) aren’t among rookie leaders other than yards per catch. But he torched the Chiefs for two catches and 118 yards in the first meeting and totally changed the approach of the Kansas City defense.
Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu said of Ruggs, “He’s one of those guys that, if he’s even, he’s leavin’.”
Mathieu, who last year described the Raiders offense as a predictable series of checkdowns and underneath routes, had this to say about the way they operate with Ruggs in the lineup:
“On the back end, how do we stop those big shots they love to take?” Mathieu said.
Said Gruden: “We’re not being defended like we’ve been defended in the past. Stats are important to some people, winning is more important to others. We’re more interested in winning.”
4. Turnover time
With one interception and one lost fumble through nine games, Mahomes isn’t going to spew turnovers like Denver’s Drew Lock. The Raiders aren’t going to get five takeaways, but getting two would help an awful lot.
Safety Jeff Heath, who owns the only interception against Mahomes in the first meeting and had two last week, said it’s all about having a mindset for the ball and being a half a step faster than you were the week before.
“Really, in the NFL, it comes down to that,” Heath said. “We’re talking half steps, a half-second between making a play and not making a play.”
The Raiders have a big decision to make in terms of blitzing Mahomes in hopes of forcing those turnovers. They’ve gotten more pressure of late with increased blitzing, but Mahomes is very good against the blitz. In the first meeting, the Raiders didn’t blitz much, Mahomes had the lowest completion rate of his career (23 of 42, 51.1 percent) and looked like a garden variety quarterback in the second half.
5. Collaring Kelce
The Chiefs’ Tyreek Hill is always a challenge, a touchdown waiting to happen. But tight end Travis Kelce can bring about a more slow, torturous demise by getting open and repeatedly picking up first downs. Mahomes trusts him, too.
“It’s obvious when you watch him that Mahomes is very comfortable throwing him the ball,” Heath said. “When plays break down, he looks downfield, then he looks to ’87.’ This league is filled with good tight ends and he’s one of the top ones.”
Kelce is far from the only weapon, but he’s one Gruden realizes will be a handful.
“We’re going to have to be a lot better than we have been against Kelce in the past,” Gruden said. “He seems to dominate against us. He’s dominated the league.”


Bridge: Nov. 21, 2020

“ Simple Saturday ” columns are meant to help aspiring players improve technique and develop logical thinking .
An elephant bite may hurt , but a mosquito bite can be just as dangerous .
Little things — how declarer manipulates the low-ranking cards — can decide the fate of a contract .
At today ’ s 3NT , South wins the first spade with his ace and counts eight probable tricks : two spades , two clubs and ( assuming a normal 3-2 break ) four diamonds .
He needs a heart trick .
South leads a heart at Trick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
East returns a spade , and South wins and takes the ace and queen of diamonds .
He next leads … what card ?
South needs two dummy entries : one to set up a heart trick , another to cash it .
He must lead the eight of diamonds to the king .
South then leads the jack of hearts .
West wins and takes two spade tricks , but South can win the club shift , reach dummy by leading his four of diamonds to the six , and take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You hold : S A K 5 4 H 2 D A Q 8 4 C A K 4 3 .
With only your side vulnerable , the dealer , at your right , opens three spades .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : This problem is perplexing .
If your opponent had opened three hearts , you would have an easy double , but his three spades is unexpected .
You can surely defeat three spades , but the penalty at 50 points per trick won ’ t compensate for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experts would bid 3NT and hope for the best .

“Simple Saturday” columns are meant to help aspiring players improve technique and develop logical thinking.
An elephant bite may hurt, but a mosquito bite can be just as dangerous. Little things — how declarer manipulates the low-ranking cards — can decide the fate of a contract.
At today’s 3NT, South wins the first spade with his ace and counts eight probable tricks: two spades, two clubs and (assuming a normal 3-2 break) four diamonds. He needs a heart trick. South leads a heart at Trick Two: five, queen, ace. East returns a spade, and South wins and takes the ace and queen of diamonds. He next leads … what card?
HEART TRICK
South needs two dummy entries: one to set up a heart trick, another to cash it. He must lead the eight of diamonds to the king.
South then leads the jack of hearts. West wins and takes two spade tricks, but South can win the club shift, reach dummy by leading his four of diamonds to the six, and take the high heart for his ninth trick.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S A K 5 4 H 2 D A Q 8 4 C A K 4 3. With only your side vulnerable, the dealer, at your right, opens three spades. What do you say?
ANSWER: This problem is perplexing. If your opponent had opened three hearts, you would have an easy double, but his three spades is unexpected. You can surely defeat three spades, but the penalty at 50 points per trick won’t compensate for a missed game. I believe most experts would bid 3NT and hope for the best.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S 10 7
H Q J 10 4
D K 6 3 2
C 7 6 5
WEST
S J 8 6 2
H K 8 6 5
D J 9 7
C J 2
EAST
S Q 9 3
H A 9 7 3
D 10 5
C Q 10 9 8
SOUTH
S A K 5 4
H 2
D A Q 8 4
C A K 4 3
South West North East
1 D Pass 1 H Pass
2 S Pass 3 D Pass
3 NT All Pass
Opening lead — S 2
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


Word Game: Nov. 21, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — DISCREDIT ( DISCREDIT : dis-KRED-it : To damage in reputation ; cause to be doubted @ @ @ @ @ 53 or more words in DISCREDIT ?
The list will be published Monday .
To @ @ @ @ @ , visit WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
@ @ @ @ @ of four or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the @ @ @ @ @ ” such as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
@ @ @ @ @ by adding a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used @ @ @ @ @ “ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not @ @ @ @ @ ” and “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words @ @ @ @ @ explicit words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — DISCREDIT (DISCREDIT: dis-KRED-it: To damage in reputation; cause to be doubted.)
Average mark 40 words
Time limit 60 minutes
Can you find 53 or more words in DISCREDIT? The list will be published Monday.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — SOLVENCY scone sloe sloven sole solve sone sync once
only oven leno lens levy lone lose love vole envoy envy noel noes nose nosy novel
clone close clove cloven cloy cole cone convey cosy cove coven covey
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--2020-11-21--Horoscopes Nov. 21, 2020: Carly Rae Jepsen, make a difference

Happy Birthday : Sensitivity will be important when dealing with peers , relatives or those who don ’ t share your opinion .
Be open to listening , negotiating and compromising .
Doing so will encourage positive changes that will lead to progress .
Offer unique ideas and incentives , and become part of the solution that brings you and those around you closer together .
Make a difference .
Your numbers are 7 , 18 , 21 , 29 , 34 , 37 , 45 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Questionable motives will surface .
Don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on what ’ s happened in the past and act accordingly .
Have a backup plan in place , and don ’ t hesitate to do your own thing .
Be straightforward when dealing with institutions .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : You are overdue for a change .
Look over your options , and make plans with someone you love .
A day trip that will enhance your relationship is favored .
Discuss sensitive issues that need to be dealt with before you move forward .
2 stars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Consider your options .
The information you receive may not fit in with your plans .
Be prepared to make an adjustment that will protect you from loss or failure .
Trust in your judgment and facts .
Make personal improvements that will help you advance .
5 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Relax , digest what ’ s happened , consider what you want to do next and spend time rearranging your life to help fulfill your goals .
Don ’ t let uncertainty or someone ’ s plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing your own thing .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Step outside your comfort zone , and do something that will challenge you physically .
Using pent-up energy will help ease stress and deter you from getting into emotional issues before you are ready to do so .
Keep the peace , and avoid unwanted change .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Make positive adjustments that will help improve your relationship with a friend , relative or lover .
Common interests will help you build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is attainable if you are sensitive to the needs of others as well as your own .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Do something energetic .
Getting fit and making positive changes to the way you look will be gratifying .
Don ’ t let someone ’ s negativity get you down .
Distance yourself from demanding people , and do what makes you happy .
Romance is favored .
5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Don ’ t make a fuss when you should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and consider all sides of a situation before making a decision that will affect others .
Positive change is the result of doing what ’ s right and best for everyone .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Listen to what others say , and be sensitive to the issues that arise .
Channel your energy into making improvements that will encourage you to live a healthier lifestyle .
An experience you had in the past will help you make better decisions now .
4 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to yourself until you have concrete evidence that will help you disclose the information you have constructively .
Go about your business , make appropriate adjustments and position yourself for advancement .
Make personal growth a priority .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Be observant , and listen to what others contribute .
It ’ s crucial to understand all sides of an issue to avoid getting drawn into someone ’ s problems .
Let the experience you have gained during the years guide you .
3 stars PISCES @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every angle , and refuse to let emotions and ego overrule what ’ s right and best for you .
Consistency and offering practical help will encourage positive changes that will affect you financially .
A gift or offering is heading your way .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are sensitive , determined and passionate .
You are intelligent and capable .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Carly Rae Jepsen, 35; Jena Malone, 36; Michael Strahan, 49; Goldie Hawn, 75.
Happy Birthday: Sensitivity will be important when dealing with peers, relatives or those who don’t share your opinion. Be open to listening, negotiating and compromising. Doing so will encourage positive changes that will lead to progress. Offer unique ideas and incentives, and become part of the solution that brings you and those around you closer together. Make a difference. Your numbers are 7, 18, 21, 29, 34, 37, 45.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Questionable motives will surface. Don’t be too trusting. Rely on what’s happened in the past and act accordingly. Have a backup plan in place, and don’t hesitate to do your own thing. Be straightforward when dealing with institutions. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You are overdue for a change. Look over your options, and make plans with someone you love. A day trip that will enhance your relationship is favored. Discuss sensitive issues that need to be dealt with before you move forward. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Consider your options. The information you receive may not fit in with your plans. Be prepared to make an adjustment that will protect you from loss or failure. Trust in your judgment and facts. Make personal improvements that will help you advance. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Relax, digest what’s happened, consider what you want to do next and spend time rearranging your life to help fulfill your goals. Don’t let uncertainty or someone’s plans ruin your day or discourage you from doing your own thing. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Step outside your comfort zone, and do something that will challenge you physically. Using pent-up energy will help ease stress and deter you from getting into emotional issues before you are ready to do so. Keep the peace, and avoid unwanted change. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Make positive adjustments that will help improve your relationship with a friend, relative or lover. Common interests will help you build a healthy relationship. A better lifestyle is attainable if you are sensitive to the needs of others as well as your own. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Do something energetic. Getting fit and making positive changes to the way you look will be gratifying. Don’t let someone’s negativity get you down. Distance yourself from demanding people, and do what makes you happy. Romance is favored. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t make a fuss when you should be making a difference. Use common sense, and consider all sides of a situation before making a decision that will affect others. Positive change is the result of doing what’s right and best for everyone. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Listen to what others say, and be sensitive to the issues that arise. Channel your energy into making improvements that will encourage you to live a healthier lifestyle. An experience you had in the past will help you make better decisions now. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Keep sensitive issues to yourself until you have concrete evidence that will help you disclose the information you have constructively. Go about your business, make appropriate adjustments and position yourself for advancement. Make personal growth a priority. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be observant, and listen to what others contribute. It’s crucial to understand all sides of an issue to avoid getting drawn into someone’s problems. Let the experience you have gained during the years guide you. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Cover every angle, and refuse to let emotions and ego overrule what’s right and best for you. Consistency and offering practical help will encourage positive changes that will affect you financially. A gift or offering is heading your way. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are sensitive, determined and passionate. You are intelligent and capable.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-11-21--Ask Amy: I know she’s dying. Is it wrong to acknowledge that with a gift?

Dear Amy : I have an aunt who is at the end of her life .
She may die within a couple of weeks .
I live in a different province , and due to COVID , I won ’ t be able to say goodbye in person or attend the funeral , but I do want to send flowers and donate to a charity .
Does the etiquette surrounding flowers/donations change at all ?
Should anything be sent to the dying person in advance , or should it be treated like a regular passing and flowers be sent to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Do not send your aunt a funeral spray .
But if you think that a beautiful bouquet of her favorite flowers would make her happy ( I could imagine that it might ) , then send them to her .
• Ask Amy : My mom is asking about my half-sister .
Do I tell the truth ?
• Ask Amy : I ’ m a young stepmother , and I ’ m afraid I screwed up • Ask Amy : My co-worker ’ s annoying habit has me close to exploding • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the verge of snapping at my rude neighbors • Ask Amy : She insists we play this ludicrous game from the 1980s The most important thing for you to do for your aunt in advance of her death is to let her know how much you love and appreciate her .
Whether that is through a card , letter , a video shot on your phone and shown to her — you have the opportunity to tell her that you love her , and that she means a lot to you .
After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bouquet or a food basket to her nearby family members , as well as donate to a charity in her memory .
Dear Amy : My sweetheart wants to plan a family trip .
At first it just involved our household and one other household .
Now it has expanded to include plans involving many other households .
I am uncomfortable with this , and have said as much .
The families involved have made suggestions to make me more comfortable , such as the idea that we can check temperatures , etc.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ dangerous idea to gather in this way .
How would you navigate this ?
Dear Anxious : Here ’ s how I am navigating this sort of dilemma : I ’ m doing it by saying “ no.
” This can be surprisingly hard to do , especially when considering the competing agendas that surface during the holiday season .
I don ’ t consider myself in a particularly high-risk group , but I interact with others who are .
I consider a “ no ” now to be an investment in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decides to take this trip without you , he should be tested just before he goes , maintain safe practice while he is gone ( not just temperature taking , but masking , maintaining good ventilation , and social distancing ) , and then he should isolate elsewhere after he returns and re-enter your home only after he has a safe test result .
You should assume that he will not maintain ideal COVID protocol while he is gone , but isolation and testing afterward should ease your mind , and might protect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughter graduated from college two years ago , with a biology degree and a desire to attend a physician ’ s assistant program .
She did not get in anywhere last year , but I encouraged her to keep trying .
She had been working as a technician for an eye doctor .
Last month , she took a new position and moved across the county to the same town as us .
The new job pays so much better , and she is doing well .
The week before she started this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a great PA program back East .
Now — a month into her new job — she has been accepted into that PA program .
She will have to move across the country and be in place 10 months from now .
The question for you is : When should she notify her new employer that she will be leaving ?
Dear Dad : Congratulations to your daughter !
Her ( and your ) persistence paid off .
She should not feel any pressure to announce her plans until she is farther @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the culture at the office and her relationship with her employers , I think that giving them six weeks ’ notice is generous and ample , giving them time to conduct a search , and for her to potentially help to train her replacement .
Dear Amy : Each day my husband and I read your column , state our answers , and then read your response .
We ’ re really good .
You ’ re better .
Your vision is broader .
Your response to “ Sick of Being Hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , every word .
Thanks for our fun way to start our day .
We ’ re learning and getting better because of your responses .
Dear Betty : Wow !
Thank you so much .
I owe you two some doughnuts .
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 .

Dear Amy: I have an aunt who is at the end of her life. She may die within a couple of weeks.
I live in a different province, and due to COVID, I won’t be able to say goodbye in person or attend the funeral, but I do want to send flowers and donate to a charity.
Does the etiquette surrounding flowers/donations change at all? Should anything be sent to the dying person in advance, or should it be treated like a regular passing and flowers be sent to the family after?
Confused in BC
Dear Confused: Do not send your aunt a funeral spray. But if you think that a beautiful bouquet of her favorite flowers would make her happy (I could imagine that it might), then send them to her.
Related Articles Advice | Ask Amy: I found the videos she posted about me, with all the demeaning comments
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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 most important thing for you to do for your aunt in advance of her death is to let her know how much you love and appreciate her. Whether that is through a card, letter, a video shot on your phone and shown to her — you have the opportunity to tell her that you love her, and that she means a lot to you.
After her death, you could send a bouquet or a food basket to her nearby family members, as well as donate to a charity in her memory.
Dear Amy: My sweetheart wants to plan a family trip. At first it just involved our household and one other household. Now it has expanded to include plans involving many other households.
I am uncomfortable with this, and have said as much.
The families involved have made suggestions to make me more comfortable, such as the idea that we can check temperatures, etc., but I think it is a dangerous idea to gather in this way.
How would you navigate this?
Anxious Annie
Dear Anxious: Here’s how I am navigating this sort of dilemma: I’m doing it by saying “no.” This can be surprisingly hard to do, especially when considering the competing agendas that surface during the holiday season.
I don’t consider myself in a particularly high-risk group, but I interact with others who are. I consider a “no” now to be an investment in a future “yes.”
If your sweetheart decides to take this trip without you, he should be tested just before he goes, maintain safe practice while he is gone (not just temperature taking, but masking, maintaining good ventilation, and social distancing), and then he should isolate elsewhere after he returns and re-enter your home only after he has a safe test result.
You should assume that he will not maintain ideal COVID protocol while he is gone, but isolation and testing afterward should ease your mind, and might protect your household.
Dear Amy: My daughter graduated from college two years ago, with a biology degree and a desire to attend a physician’s assistant program.
She did not get in anywhere last year, but I encouraged her to keep trying. She had been working as a technician for an eye doctor.
Last month, she took a new position and moved across the county to the same town as us. The new job pays so much better, and she is doing well.
The week before she started this new job, she got an interview for a great PA program back East. Now — a month into her new job — she has been accepted into that PA program. She will have to move across the country and be in place 10 months from now.
The question for you is: When should she notify her new employer that she will be leaving?
Dad
Dear Dad: Congratulations to your daughter! Her (and your) persistence paid off.
She should not feel any pressure to announce her plans until she is farther along in her current employment. Depending on the culture at the office and her relationship with her employers, I think that giving them six weeks’ notice is generous and ample, giving them time to conduct a search, and for her to potentially help to train her replacement.
Dear Amy: Each day my husband and I read your column, state our answers, and then read your response. We’re really good. You’re better. Your vision is broader.
Your response to “Sick of Being Hit Upon” is modern-day, spot-on perfect, every word.
Thanks for our fun way to start our day. We’re learning and getting better because of your responses.
Thank you!
Betty
Dear Betty: Wow! Thank you so much. I owe you two some doughnuts.
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--2020-11-21--Harriette Cole: My daughter, a social media influencer, wants cosmetic surgery. I say no.

DEAR HARRIETTE : My daughter is a popular social media influencer .
Since she has become more popular , she has been entertaining the idea of having plastic surgery to keep up a particular image that the media puts out there for society .
I am totally against it .
I think she became popular being who she is , and changing that is not going to make her more popular .
Apart from that , it is expensive and dangerous , and she wants me to help her pay for it .
Why are millennials so focused on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She is beautiful .
DEAR MOTHER OF A BEAUTY : A huge challenge of being so engaged with social media is managing a healthy self-image .
People judge so harshly on social media , both liking and dismissing aspects of those they view in a blink .
Never mind how the people being judged are affected by the click of a finger on a computer or handheld device .
As a parent , your job is fierce .
You must constantly remind your daughter of her value and work to help her see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , inside and out .
If your daughter is still a minor , you can forbid her from having plastic surgery .
But more , you should encourage her to employ temporary alterations rather than permanent ones as she explores her personal appearance .
• Harriette Cole : Should I tell my neighbor what I saw when she was gone ?
• Harriette Cole : I now wonder if the rumors about my roommate are true • Harriette Cole : Did he really want me to fight this other woman ?
• Harriette @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saw a bug , and his response was ridiculous • Harriette Cole : The waiter was acting weird .
What could we have done ?
Makeup application can change the appearance of one ’ s facial features without ever using a knife .
( I remember when I was a young model , a makeup artist suggested that I get a nose job .
He hurt my feelings , but I opted to use contour instead ! )
Wardrobe alterations can often make a difference in one ’ s appearance by camouflaging or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ effect , rather than taking drastic measures with surgery .
DEAR HARRIETTE : In response to your reply to the Family With a Dog , I wanted to add : Training children to be responsible is a very important goal .
Sometimes children need help and encouragement in the form of rewards and recognition .
Helping each member of a family feel good about their contribution helps build self-esteem .
This is an important task for the parent and not as easy as creating negative consequences .
Parenting classes and family meetings can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to raise children positively .
DEAR POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT : You are absolutely right that it is important to teach children to be responsible .
In general , this is an important principle .
It is key with animals — with the lives of these pets .
Pointing out how grateful pets are for their love and support can be inspiring .
Showing kids the impact that their individual actions have on the well-being of the family pet can be uplifting and engaging .
Your recommendation for parenting classes is great –for those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to that .
I also appreciate the idea of family meetings .
When there is a weekly time scheduled for all family members to gather and talk about the needs , goals and responsibilities of the family , you create space for regular discussion about whatever is going on for all family members .
Great ideas !
Thanks .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: My daughter is a popular social media influencer. Since she has become more popular, she has been entertaining the idea of having plastic surgery to keep up a particular image that the media puts out there for society.
I am totally against it. I think she became popular being who she is, and changing that is not going to make her more popular. Apart from that, it is expensive and dangerous, and she wants me to help her pay for it.
Why are millennials so focused on their appearance and wanting to change it? She is beautiful.
Mother of a Beauty
DEAR MOTHER OF A BEAUTY: A huge challenge of being so engaged with social media is managing a healthy self-image.
People judge so harshly on social media, both liking and dismissing aspects of those they view in a blink. Never mind how the people being judged are affected by the click of a finger on a computer or handheld device.
As a parent, your job is fierce. You must constantly remind your daughter of her value and work to help her see that she is beautiful as she is, inside and out. If your daughter is still a minor, you can forbid her from having plastic surgery. But more, you should encourage her to employ temporary alterations rather than permanent ones as she explores her personal appearance.
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Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend Advice | Harriette Cole: I’ve worked hard, and my poor siblings resent my success Makeup application can change the appearance of one’s facial features without ever using a knife. (I remember when I was a young model, a makeup artist suggested that I get a nose job. He hurt my feelings, but I opted to use contour instead!) Wardrobe alterations can often make a difference in one’s appearance by camouflaging or emphasizing curves, depending on the desired effect, rather than taking drastic measures with surgery.
DEAR HARRIETTE: In response to your reply to the Family With a Dog, I wanted to add: Training children to be responsible is a very important goal.
Sometimes children need help and encouragement in the form of rewards and recognition. Helping each member of a family feel good about their contribution helps build self-esteem. This is an important task for the parent and not as easy as creating negative consequences. Parenting classes and family meetings can make a huge difference in learning how to raise children positively.
Positive Reinforcement
DEAR POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT: You are absolutely right that it is important to teach children to be responsible. In general, this is an important principle. It is key with animals — with the lives of these pets. Pointing out how grateful pets are for their love and support can be inspiring. Showing kids the impact that their individual actions have on the well-being of the family pet can be uplifting and engaging.
Your recommendation for parenting classes is great –for those who have the time and money to devote to that. I also appreciate the idea of family meetings. When there is a weekly time scheduled for all family members to gather and talk about the needs, goals and responsibilities of the family, you create space for regular discussion about whatever is going on for all family members. Great ideas! Thanks.
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.