mercurynews--2020-08-29--49ers training camp: Highs and lows, winners and losers?

SANTA CLARA — My main takeaway from 49ers training camp : This cast is essentially the same that reached the last Super Bowl , and it has the NFC ’ s best chance to return , thanks to the 49ers ’ continuity and well-placed additions .
Don ’ t dwell on the soft-tissue injuries that should not sideline their stars for the Sept. 13 opener against Arizona .
Don ’ t look at the “ Super Bowl hangover ” as a curse , but rather historical motivation .
Impressively , the 49ers and NFL have skirted any COVID-19 outbreak thus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nor is Week 1 .
Nor Weeks 9-17 .
That ’ s why , when folks ask for my prediction , I ’ m calling a 6-2 regular season ahead of a playoff return and Super Bowl vengeance .
Hey , it makes you think ( and stay on guard ) more so than the trendy 12-4 , 13-3 hype .
Here are training camp ’ s highs and lows heading into Sunday ’ s practice , the final full-viewing period for media all season ( unless coach Kyle Shanahan trusts us to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George Seifert did when the 49ers , you know , kinda won big ) : While Nick Bosa should be a frontrunner for NFL Defensive Player of the Year , it is Warner who rallies the defensive troops , not only with his energy but a desire to happily hit and bark at anyone holding the ball .
He is the 49ers ’ polite spokesman/hard-hitting mercenary .
“ We think Fred ’ s ready to play , ” coach Kyle Shanahan said after resting Warner much of Friday ’ s practice .
Even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , his power and athleticism are as advertised , just what the 49ers need to ( upgrade ? )
their offensive line and protect Jimmy Garoppolo ’ s rebuilt knee ( more on that below ) .
He lived up to his first-round status well before last Sunday ’ s hamstring ( mild ) strain .
Frequently targeted , his smooth routes and hands reflected a rookie who came in well-prepared for a complicated offense .
At the risk of getting too far ahead of ourselves for a third straight year , McKinnon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a terrific weapon for Shanahan , as so hired in March 2018 .
No brace on McKinnon ’ s twice-repaired right knee .
No holding him back now , right ?
If George Kittle does not lead the 49ers in receptions , the ever-feisty Taylor could , judging from his sharp cuts and all-out effort for diving catches , after his 2019 foot problems .
Two practices into camp , Hurd tore an anterior cruciate ligament running on the side with a trainer .
He is the ‘ X ’ factor everyone fantasized @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two years , now .
Garoppolo pumped a short pass to the right sideline , a potential pick-six in years past .
A tightly covered Taylor turned just before reaching the sideline , and Garoppolo ’ s pass hit him in the hands in a low , super-tight window .
It was the only possible spot to make it past nickel back Jamar Taylor .
A few plays earlier , ( Trent ) Taylor had one of his few drops in camp .
“ Today ( Friday ) there was one put over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and in front of the safety .
I was pretty pleased with that one ( to Dante Pettis ) .
There ’ s so many throws in training camp .
You try not to focus on the good ones.
” — Garoppolo .
• What we learned from 49ers practice inside Levi ’ s Stadium ?
• Why 49ers do not plan on quarantining a quarterback in case of COVID-19 ?
• These eight NFL teams canceled practice in response to Blake shooting Day 2 of camp and Garoppolo , who everyone skewered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pass ( 35 yards in the air ) that hits Brandon Aiyuk in stride down the left sideline for a 50-yard touchdown .
Aiyuk looked so smooth , so unfazed , so much the play-maker like Jerry Rice .
Only 1,848 receptions , 22,895 yards and 208 total touchdowns to match No .
80 .
This was pay-per-view worthy , even if Williams routinely stoned Bosa .
Two elite players like banging into each other like rams ( not Rams ) .
Those who unexpectedly caught my eye were running back JaMycal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Johnathan Cyprien , defensive tackle Darrion Daniels and tight ends Charlie Woerner and Chase Harrell .
I suspect two or three will make the 53-man roster , the others delayed to the practice squad .
They ’ ve lost five wide receivers to injury , signed seemingly 20 veteran free agents and everything should be OK for Week 1 , minus Hurd .
By the way , the 49ers are a run-dominant offense and all rushers ( plus most blockers ) look sensational .
I ’ m expecting Ben Garland to return from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 .
Otherwise , it ’ s Daniel Brunskill , who should start at right guard .
Weston Richburg will miss the first six weeks ( December 2019 patella injury ) .
Other non-options for Week 1 : Spencer Long ( retired ) , Jake Brendel ( COVID-19 opt-out ) and Ross Reynolds ( knee bruise ) .
This might be the smallest but best rookie class in years .
I ’ ll rank them : Aiyuk , defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw , Hasty , Woerner , offensive lineman Colton McKivitz , wide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , fullback Josh Hokit , Mayden , Foster .
This first-year offensive tackle towers at 6-foot-7 , 345 pounds .
He may not make the final cut but he showed a nasty streak ( rare among these 49ers ) in undercard fights with Dion Jordan and Javon Kinlaw .
Shanahan wisely refrained from allowing full-contact tackling , considering the injury rate .
But Warner repeatedly toed that line , and even though he welcomed Raheem Mostert with a hard hit at the 5-yard line Thursday , that gets both as prepared as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost underway for Sherman , who wins this award after returning his third interception off Jimmy Garoppolo for a 95-yard touchdown .
Almost every defensive back , however , had a fantastic pass defense or interception , alleviating concerns over the 49ers not drafting or hiring a veteran free agent .
Runner-up : Jaquiski Tartt ( three dropped interceptions ) .
Who wore it best : Nick Bosa If we all had Bosa ’ s physique , we ’ d also be exhibitionists with thigh-high shorts and half-shirts .
Neither Garoppolo nor McKinnon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nor did the first-string offensive linemen .
That entire scene struck me Friday inside Levi ’ s Stadium as they lined up , so I asked Shanahan if that will be the 2020 norm .
“ If they should have it on , a doctor ’ s going to make them put it on , ” Shanahan said .
“ … If a guy ’ s not going to wear it at all in practice and wear it on Sunday in the game , then I would have a problem with that .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to me.
” It ’ s Emmanuel Moseley ’ s job to lose , Jason Verrett ’ s to win and Ahkello Witherspoon ’ s to regain .
Moseley is the projected winner .
Good .
Too much noise last year about them the first three months , as they used four long snappers and Robbie Gould had to also overcame a leg issue .
Pettis unloaded so much off his chest regarding his sub-par 2019 season , and Kinlaw kept it real how even though he is super-sized , that doesn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ One of his offseason goals was to become a starter and he very well could be .
He is the most experienced wide receiver in this system , and he showed well on third down and in the red zone late last season .
Oh , and he practiced every day , unlike too many other wide receivers .
The 49ers cross-trained several players , and that is a wise move if COVID-19 takes out some during the season .
Especially versatile became McKivitz and Brunskill amid the interior line injuries .
McKinnon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but don ’ t overlook his speed and determination at running back .
Defensively , almost all linemen are versatile , perhaps Sherman strays more from left cornerback this year , and all linebackers are interchangeable , though Warner is tops at his spot .
Shanahan ’ s offense will spread the ball , and although the rushing attack is most revered , don ’ t underestimate the passing numbers in what could be a weird season ( see : 2020 ) .
So , that said , I ’ d rank fantasy-football @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Samuel , Taylor , Gould , Aiyuk , Garoppolo , Bourne , defense , Jordan Reed , McKinnon , Tevin Coleman , Pettis , Juszczyk , Jennings , Dwelley , Austin , Woerner , Hasty .

SANTA CLARA — My main takeaway from 49ers training camp: This cast is essentially the same that reached the last Super Bowl, and it has the NFC’s best chance to return, thanks to the 49ers’ continuity and well-placed additions.
Don’t dwell on the soft-tissue injuries that should not sideline their stars for the Sept. 13 opener against Arizona.
Don’t look at the “Super Bowl hangover” as a curse, but rather historical motivation.
And don’t assume that a 16-game season awaits.
Impressively, the 49ers and NFL have skirted any COVID-19 outbreak thus far. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. Nor is Week 1. Nor Weeks 9-17.
That’s why, when folks ask for my prediction, I’m calling a 6-2 regular season ahead of a playoff return and Super Bowl vengeance. Hey, it makes you think (and stay on guard) more so than the trendy 12-4, 13-3 hype.
Here are training camp’s highs and lows heading into Sunday’s practice, the final full-viewing period for media all season (unless coach Kyle Shanahan trusts us to keep state secrets like Bill Walsh and George Seifert did when the 49ers, you know, kinda won big):
Defensive MVP: Linebacker Fred Warner.
While Nick Bosa should be a frontrunner for NFL Defensive Player of the Year, it is Warner who rallies the defensive troops, not only with his energy but a desire to happily hit and bark at anyone holding the ball. He is the 49ers’ polite spokesman/hard-hitting mercenary. “We think Fred’s ready to play,” coach Kyle Shanahan said after resting Warner much of Friday’s practice.
Offensive MVP: Left tackle Trent Williams.
Even after a year away from the NFL, his power and athleticism are as advertised, just what the 49ers need to (upgrade?) their offensive line and protect Jimmy Garoppolo’s rebuilt knee (more on that below).
Breakout star: Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk.
He lived up to his first-round status well before last Sunday’s hamstring (mild) strain. Frequently targeted, his smooth routes and hands reflected a rookie who came in well-prepared for a complicated offense.
Best comeback: Running back Jerick McKinnon.
At the risk of getting too far ahead of ourselves for a third straight year, McKinnon’s speed and versatility make him a terrific weapon for Shanahan, as so hired in March 2018. No brace on McKinnon’s twice-repaired right knee. No holding him back now, right?
Second-best comeback: Wide receiver Trent Taylor.
If George Kittle does not lead the 49ers in receptions, the ever-feisty Taylor could, judging from his sharp cuts and all-out effort for diving catches, after his 2019 foot problems.
Worst comeback: Wide receiver Jalen Hurd.
Two practices into camp, Hurd tore an anterior cruciate ligament running on the side with a trainer. He is the ‘X’ factor everyone fantasized about the past year. Make it two years, now.
Best throw (my choice):
Garoppolo pumped a short pass to the right sideline, a potential pick-six in years past. A tightly covered Taylor turned just before reaching the sideline, and Garoppolo’s pass hit him in the hands in a low, super-tight window. It was the only possible spot to make it past nickel back Jamar Taylor. A few plays earlier, (Trent) Taylor had one of his few drops in camp.
Best throw (Jimmy G’s choice):
“Today (Friday) there was one put over the linebacker in front of the corner and in front of the safety. I was pretty pleased with that one (to Dante Pettis). There’s so many throws in training camp. You try not to focus on the good ones.” — Garoppolo. Related Articles San Francisco 49ers | Kurtenbach: The 49ers aren’t worried about Nick Bosa’s holdout. They should be
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Best catch: Aiyuk
Day 2 of camp and Garoppolo, who everyone skewered for his Super Bowl overthrow, lofts a pass (35 yards in the air) that hits Brandon Aiyuk in stride down the left sideline for a 50-yard touchdown. Aiyuk looked so smooth, so unfazed, so much the play-maker like Jerry Rice. Only 1,848 receptions, 22,895 yards and 208 total touchdowns to match No. 80.
Best matchup: Trent Williams vs. Nick Bosa.
This was pay-per-view worthy, even if Williams routinely stoned Bosa. Two elite players like banging into each other like rams (not Rams).
Eye-openers: Plenty
Those who unexpectedly caught my eye were running back JaMycal Hasty, linebacker Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, center Johnathan Cyprien, defensive tackle Darrion Daniels and tight ends Charlie Woerner and Chase Harrell. I suspect two or three will make the 53-man roster, the others delayed to the practice squad.
Overplayed concern: Wide receiver injuries.
They’ve lost five wide receivers to injury, signed seemingly 20 veteran free agents and everything should be OK for Week 1, minus Hurd. By the way, the 49ers are a run-dominant offense and all rushers (plus most blockers) look sensational.
Underplayed concern: Center depth.
I’m expecting Ben Garland to return from an early-camp ankle sprain and start Week 1. Otherwise, it’s Daniel Brunskill, who should start at right guard. Weston Richburg will miss the first six weeks (December 2019 patella injury). Other non-options for Week 1: Spencer Long (retired), Jake Brendel (COVID-19 opt-out) and Ross Reynolds (knee bruise).
Rookie ratings:
This might be the smallest but best rookie class in years. I’ll rank them: Aiyuk, defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw, Hasty, Woerner, offensive lineman Colton McKivitz, wide receiver Jauan Jennings, Daniels, Harrell, fullback Josh Hokit, Mayden, Foster.
Best bouncer: OT Jaryd Jones-Smith
This first-year offensive tackle towers at 6-foot-7, 345 pounds. He may not make the final cut but he showed a nasty streak (rare among these 49ers) in undercard fights with Dion Jordan and Javon Kinlaw.
Best hit: Warner on Mostert
Shanahan wisely refrained from allowing full-contact tackling, considering the injury rate. But Warner repeatedly toed that line, and even though he welcomed Raheem Mostert with a hard hit at the 5-yard line Thursday, that gets both as prepared as possible for Week 1.
Best ballhawk: Richard Sherman
Year 10 is almost underway for Sherman, who wins this award after returning his third interception off Jimmy Garoppolo for a 95-yard touchdown. Almost every defensive back, however, had a fantastic pass defense or interception, alleviating concerns over the 49ers not drafting or hiring a veteran free agent. Runner-up: Jaquiski Tartt (three dropped interceptions).
Who wore it best: Nick Bosa
If we all had Bosa’s physique, we’d also be exhibitionists with thigh-high shorts and half-shirts.
What they didn’t wear: Knee braces
Neither Garoppolo nor McKinnon wore braces on their rebuilt knees, nor did the first-string offensive linemen. That entire scene struck me Friday inside Levi’s Stadium as they lined up, so I asked Shanahan if that will be the 2020 norm.
“If they should have it on, a doctor’s going to make them put it on,” Shanahan said. “… If a guy’s not going to wear it at all in practice and wear it on Sunday in the game, then I would have a problem with that. That doesn’t make much sense to me.”
Best competition: Right cornerback
It’s Emmanuel Moseley’s job to lose, Jason Verrett’s to win and Ahkello Witherspoon’s to regain. Moseley is the projected winner.
Quietest camp: Specialists
Good. Too much noise last year about them the first three months, as they used four long snappers and Robbie Gould had to also overcame a leg issue.
Most humble: Dante Pettis, Javon Kinlaw
Pettis unloaded so much off his chest regarding his sub-par 2019 season, and Kinlaw kept it real how even though he is super-sized, that doesn’t mean much unless he improves.
Most overlooked: Kendrick Bourne
One of his offseason goals was to become a starter and he very well could be. He is the most experienced wide receiver in this system, and he showed well on third down and in the red zone late last season. Oh, and he practiced every day, unlike too many other wide receivers.
Most versatile: Pick ’em
The 49ers cross-trained several players, and that is a wise move if COVID-19 takes out some during the season. Especially versatile became McKivitz and Brunskill amid the interior line injuries. McKinnon’s receiving ability will help, but don’t overlook his speed and determination at running back. Defensively, almost all linemen are versatile, perhaps Sherman strays more from left cornerback this year, and all linebackers are interchangeable, though Warner is tops at his spot.
Fantasy football ratings:
Shanahan’s offense will spread the ball, and although the rushing attack is most revered, don’t underestimate the passing numbers in what could be a weird season (see: 2020). So, that said, I’d rank fantasy-football outputs as: Kittle, Mostert, Samuel, Taylor, Gould, Aiyuk, Garoppolo, Bourne, defense, Jordan Reed, McKinnon, Tevin Coleman, Pettis, Juszczyk, Jennings, Dwelley, Austin, Woerner, Hasty.


mercurynews--2020-08-29--Horoscopes Aug. 29, 2020: Lea Michele and Carla Gugino share advice

Happy Birthday : Perfection and control will be your tickets to success this year .
You can change your future if you are practical and invest in the changes you want to happen .
Happiness begins with you .
Take measures to ensure you sort out pending problems so you can move freely in a direction that suits you mentally , emotionally and romantically .
Your numbers are 6 , 11 , 21 , 27 , 34 , 36 , 45 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Focus on a concrete plan .
If you want to make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living without giving up what you ’ ve worked so hard to achieve , you have to remain calm and make an offer that ’ s too good to refuse .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Look at your options , and choose a path that enhances your reputation .
If you make a fuss , you ’ ll face uncertainty .
Do what others expect for now , and look for new ways to use your skills as you move forward .
2 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will fester if you are vague or inconsistent .
Someone from your past will want to reconnect .
Before you open the door to your past , take a walk down memory lane .
Sometimes it ’ s best to leave the past behind .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Go with the flow .
Don ’ t fear trying something new .
Experience leads to knowledge and personal growth .
Shake off negativity , and embrace the future with optimism and an open heart .
Take control of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priority .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Do the legwork if you want to get ahead .
Less talk and more action will discourage interference .
Don ’ t take a risk with your health , cash or emotional well-being .
Follow the path that ’ s best for you , and don ’ t look back .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Implement the changes required to head down an exciting path .
Fitting into the lifestyle you want to live will help you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honest regarding what you want , and don ’ t settle for less .
5 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Listen to your inner voice , and do your best to avoid troublemakers .
Don ’ t feel obligated to do someone else ’ s job when you haven ’ t completed what you are responsible for .
Take better care of your health .
2 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Engage in discussions that will help clarify any matters concerning family or community problems .
Your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you a platform to make a difference in the way things unfold .
Love is favored .
Make unique plans for two .
4 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Be careful how much information you share about your personal life or plans .
Someone will misinterpret what you say and cause a problem with someone you hold dear to your heart .
Make self-improvement and a healthier lifestyle your priorities .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Pay attention to living expenses and the price of projects @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accomplish plenty as long as you are reasonable regarding your goals and your expectations .
A change at home will bring you closer to someone you love .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Don ’ t take a risk with your health or money .
Avoid crowds , use common sense and say no to anyone who asks for too much .
Be frank regarding your intentions to take your life in a direction that will help you advance .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to achieve .
The help you have awarded others will put you in an excellent position to call in favors .
It ’ s time to bring about the changes that will make you happy .
Romance is favored .
4 stars Birthday Baby : You are enthusiastic , charismatic and responsible .
You are steadfast and commanding .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Lea Michele, 34; Emily Hampshire, 39; Carla Gugino, 49; Rebecca De Mornay, 61.
Happy Birthday: Perfection and control will be your tickets to success this year. You can change your future if you are practical and invest in the changes you want to happen. Happiness begins with you. Take measures to ensure you sort out pending problems so you can move freely in a direction that suits you mentally, emotionally and romantically. Your numbers are 6, 11, 21, 27, 34, 36, 45.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Focus on a concrete plan. If you want to make changes to the way you earn your living without giving up what you’ve worked so hard to achieve, you have to remain calm and make an offer that’s too good to refuse. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Look at your options, and choose a path that enhances your reputation. If you make a fuss, you’ll face uncertainty. Do what others expect for now, and look for new ways to use your skills as you move forward. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Problems with loved ones will fester if you are vague or inconsistent. Someone from your past will want to reconnect. Before you open the door to your past, take a walk down memory lane. Sometimes it’s best to leave the past behind. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Go with the flow. Don’t fear trying something new. Experience leads to knowledge and personal growth. Shake off negativity, and embrace the future with optimism and an open heart. Take control of your happiness, and make romance a priority. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Do the legwork if you want to get ahead. Less talk and more action will discourage interference. Don’t take a risk with your health, cash or emotional well-being. Follow the path that’s best for you, and don’t look back. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Implement the changes required to head down an exciting path. Fitting into the lifestyle you want to live will help you achieve the happiness you deserve. Be honest regarding what you want, and don’t settle for less. 5 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Listen to your inner voice, and do your best to avoid troublemakers. Don’t feel obligated to do someone else’s job when you haven’t completed what you are responsible for. Take better care of your health. 2 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Engage in discussions that will help clarify any matters concerning family or community problems. Your input will be highly regarded and give you a platform to make a difference in the way things unfold. Love is favored. Make unique plans for two. 4 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Be careful how much information you share about your personal life or plans. Someone will misinterpret what you say and cause a problem with someone you hold dear to your heart. Make self-improvement and a healthier lifestyle your priorities. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Pay attention to living expenses and the price of projects you want to pursue. You can accomplish plenty as long as you are reasonable regarding your goals and your expectations. A change at home will bring you closer to someone you love. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t take a risk with your health or money. Avoid crowds, use common sense and say no to anyone who asks for too much. Be frank regarding your intentions to take your life in a direction that will help you advance. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Stay focused on what you are trying to achieve. The help you have awarded others will put you in an excellent position to call in favors. It’s time to bring about the changes that will make you happy. Romance is favored. 4 stars
Birthday Baby: You are enthusiastic, charismatic and responsible. You are steadfast and commanding.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Bridge: Aug. 29, 2020

If I could offer just one piece of advice on dummy play , it would be “ Plan first.
” Don ’ t proceed until you count winners or losers and devise a plan of play ; don ’ t play even one card .
Today ’ s declarer ignored that idea .
When West led the deuce of spades against four hearts , South promptly won with dummy ’ s king to lead the ten of trumps for a finesse .
West took the king and led a diamond , and East won and returned the queen of spades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and South had a spade loser .
Down one .
West ’ s spade lead was a sure singleton , and after East overcalled at the two level , vulnerable , he was more likely to have the ace of diamonds than the king of trumps .
So South should win the first spade with his ace and lead the ace and a low trump .
West wins and leads a diamond , and East wins and returns a spade , but when West ruffs , he is ruffing South ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You hold : S A 6 4 H A J 9 3 2 D K 7 C A K 9 .
The dealer , at your right , opens one diamond .
You double , and your partner responds one spade .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Many players tend to get carried away with strong hands .
Your hand is powerful , but your opponent did open the bidding , and your partner may be broke .
Bid two hearts .
When you double before bidding a suit , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a game , your partner will bid again .

“Simple Saturday” columns focus on basic technique and logical thinking.
If I could offer just one piece of advice on dummy play, it would be “Plan first.” Don’t proceed until you count winners or losers and devise a plan of play; don’t play even one card.
Today’s declarer ignored that idea. When West led the deuce of spades against four hearts, South promptly won with dummy’s king to lead the ten of trumps for a finesse. West took the king and led a diamond, and East won and returned the queen of spades. West ruffed South’s ace, and South had a spade loser. Down one.
SINGLETON
West’s spade lead was a sure singleton, and after East overcalled at the two level, vulnerable, he was more likely to have the ace of diamonds than the king of trumps. So South should win the first spade with his ace and lead the ace and a low trump.
West wins and leads a diamond, and East wins and returns a spade, but when West ruffs, he is ruffing South’s spade loser. South has the rest.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S A 6 4 H A J 9 3 2 D K 7 C A K 9. The dealer, at your right, opens one diamond. You double, and your partner responds one spade. What do you say?
ANSWER: Many players tend to get carried away with strong hands. Your hand is powerful, but your opponent did open the bidding, and your partner may be broke. Bid two hearts. When you double before bidding a suit, you promise great strength. If you have a game, your partner will bid again.
South dealer
Both sides vulnerable
NORTH
S K 7 3
H Q 10 6 4
D 10 6 3 2
C 7 3
WEST
S 2
H K 8 5
D J 9 8 5
C J 8 6 5 2
EAST
S Q J 10 9 8 5
H 7
D A Q 4
C Q 10 4
SOUTH
S A 6 4
H A J 9 3 2
D K 7
C A K 9
South West North East
1 H Pass 2 H 2 S
4 H All Pass
Opening lead — S 2
(C)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.


Word Game: Aug. 29, 2020

Can you find 50 or more words in SUPERBLY ?
The list will be published Monday .
YESTERDAY ’ S @ @ @ @ @ rosy royal also usual usury carol clay cloy coal cola coral cosy curl curly ocular @ @ @ @ @ scar scary scour slay slur soar solar sora soul sour sourly soya surly lacy locus @ @ @ @ @ purchase the Word Game book , visit WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ @ @ @ @ @ 1 .
Words must be of four or more letters .
2 .
Words that @ @ @ @ @ addition of “ s , ” such as “ bats ” or “ dies , @ @ @ @ @ 3 .
Additional words made by adding a “ d ” or an “ s @ @ @ @ @ .
For example , if “ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or @ @ @ @ @ allowed , but “ bake ” and “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
@ @ @ @ @ , or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — SUPERBLY (SUPERBLY: soo-PERB-lee: Excellently.)
Average mark 39 words
Time limit 45 minutes
Can you find 50 or more words in SUPERBLY? The list will be published Monday.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — RAUCOUSLY racy raucous rosy royal also usual usury
carol clay cloy coal cola coral cosy curl curly ocular oral orca ours saucy scaly scar
scary scour slay slur soar solar sora soul sour sourly soya surly lacy locus lousy
luau your yours
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--2020-08-29--Ask Amy: How will I know when to cut my boyfriend loose?

Dear Amy : My guy and I live in different countries .
We have only seen each other one time since COVID hit , and I just feel like we are falling apart .
We used to see each other one or two times a month .
It has been four months since we ’ ve gotten together , and we really don ’ t know when we will again .
We talk three times a day , and text a bit during the week , but then weekends come , and he goes quiet all day and we talk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I get this gut feeling that he is pulling away .
He won ’ t reply to texts for hours ( and sometimes he never replies , unless I ask ) .
Our phone calls are sometimes limited to a minute or two to touch base .
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He won ’ t comment on my Facebook posts .
He used to leave cute little comments , but that has stopped .
Should I continue to try , or just give up ?
We used to be such a strong couple .
I was sure we would end up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he doesn ’ t really care .
We have been together for five years , now .
I have tried not to ask for much and not to text too much .
I want to respect his space when he gets quiet , but I ’ m not sure what he needs anymore .
Just when I think it ’ s time to end it and I question him on it , he will send something sweet or tell me that he sees a future .
When will I know for sure whether @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just give him space on the weekends ?
Dear Lost : The wonderful thing about being in a long-distance relationship is how the anticipation and rhythm of meetings fuels the romance .
You are either planning to meet , or parting with sweet sorrow while you anticipate the next meetup .
Everything else about a long-distance relationship is the worst , and trying to maintain a long-distance relationship during a global pandemic is the worst-worst , mainly because you are being denied not only the ability to see one another , but — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right now — you can ’ t even plan for the future .
Add to this the stress of job and health insecurity and other family pressures , and you have a multitude of large and small strains on your relationship .
The only answer here is to talk about it .
Does he want to emotionally distance himself until there is more clarity about the possibility of seeing one another again ?
Dear Amy : Like other readers , I ’ d like to add my voice to “ Smoke Free , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ smoking .
I was a smoker for almost 50 years from when I tried my first cigarette behind the garage until I finally quit , one day at a time .
The day I quit was two years and 65 days ago and I can tell because I have made an entry in a spreadsheet every single day since I quit .
I have also estimated my savings , which to date are over $ 14,000 ( based on my previous smoking amount and the cost of cigarettes when I quit ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , my savings go up and one more day is recorded .
One Day at a Time in Canada Dear One Day at a Time : I am enjoying these inspiring tales from former smokers , along with the helpful tips people share about how they have done it .
It is absolutely amazing to me that you spent so much money each year on cigarettes , and yet when I do the math I realize that any daily consumable ( be it my daily donut or a $ 10 pack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ progress each day after quitting is a genius idea .
This is not only an important part of your one-day-at-a-time practice , but it is a positive daily reminder of your savings over time .
Way to go !
Dear Amy : I was deeply disturbed by your response to “ Making Change , ” who accused her teacher of initiating a racist game in middle school .
First of all , playing a game called “ Underground Railroad ” is not racist .
Secondly , you should not encourage someone to participate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could get this person fired !
Dear Upset : I think it is entirely appropriate to contact the school to reflect on an experience this person had there .
I do not think it is appropriate to try to get a teacher fired over this , as I said in my answer .
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: My guy and I live in different countries. We have only seen each other one time since COVID hit, and I just feel like we are falling apart.
We used to see each other one or two times a month. It has been four months since we’ve gotten together, and we really don’t know when we will again.
We talk three times a day, and text a bit during the week, but then weekends come, and he goes quiet all day and we talk maybe one time the entire weekend.
I get this gut feeling that he is pulling away. He won’t reply to texts for hours (and sometimes he never replies, unless I ask). Our phone calls are sometimes limited to a minute or two to touch base.
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Should I continue to try, or just give up?
We used to be such a strong couple. I was sure we would end up together but now I just feel like he doesn’t really care.
We have been together for five years, now. I have tried not to ask for much and not to text too much. I want to respect his space when he gets quiet, but I’m not sure what he needs anymore.
Just when I think it’s time to end it and I question him on it, he will send something sweet or tell me that he sees a future.
When will I know for sure whether to end it, or whether to just give him space on the weekends?
Lost in Love
Dear Lost: The wonderful thing about being in a long-distance relationship is how the anticipation and rhythm of meetings fuels the romance. You are either planning to meet, or parting with sweet sorrow while you anticipate the next meetup.
Everything else about a long-distance relationship is the worst, and trying to maintain a long-distance relationship during a global pandemic is the worst-worst, mainly because you are being denied not only the ability to see one another, but — because of the uncertain nature of everything right now — you can’t even plan for the future. Add to this the stress of job and health insecurity and other family pressures, and you have a multitude of large and small strains on your relationship.
The only answer here is to talk about it. Does he want to emotionally distance himself until there is more clarity about the possibility of seeing one another again?
Dear Amy: Like other readers, I’d like to add my voice to “Smoke Free,” and share my story about quitting smoking.
I was a smoker for almost 50 years from when I tried my first cigarette behind the garage until I finally quit, one day at a time.
The day I quit was two years and 65 days ago and I can tell because I have made an entry in a spreadsheet every single day since I quit.
I have also estimated my savings, which to date are over $14,000 (based on my previous smoking amount and the cost of cigarettes when I quit).
Every day, one day at a time, my savings go up and one more day is recorded.
One Day at a Time in Canada
Dear One Day at a Time: I am enjoying these inspiring tales from former smokers, along with the helpful tips people share about how they have done it.
It is absolutely amazing to me that you spent so much money each year on cigarettes, and yet when I do the math I realize that any daily consumable (be it my daily donut or a $10 pack of cigarettes) adds up!
Tracking your progress each day after quitting is a genius idea. This is not only an important part of your one-day-at-a-time practice, but it is a positive daily reminder of your savings over time. Way to go!
Dear Amy: I was deeply disturbed by your response to “Making Change,” who accused her teacher of initiating a racist game in middle school. First of all, playing a game called “Underground Railroad” is not racist. Secondly, you should not encourage someone to participate in “cancel culture.” Making Change could get this person fired!
Upset
Dear Upset: I think it is entirely appropriate to contact the school to reflect on an experience this person had there.
I do not think it is appropriate to try to get a teacher fired over this, as I said in my answer.
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--2020-08-29--Harriette Cole: How can I get past the Election Day trauma?

DEAR HARRIETTE : This upcoming election is important for minorities like myself .
I remember when Trump was elected president how scary it was to me .
On my college campus , some students were happy , celebrating in the streets , and students like myself were filled with fear for our country .
Those who were celebrating were screaming and yelling in the faces of those who displayed any type of discomfort or were saddened by the news .
For myself and my friends , it was a traumatizing event .
Some of our clubs created support groups to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , that day is the only thing that plays in my mind .
How can I stay hopeful for the coming election and put aside the memories ?
• Harriette Cole : I don ’ t even know how I got so big • Harriette Cole : Did she lie to get me to move out of the house ?
• Harriette Cole : My wife and I are opening a restaurant , and we argue about everything • Harriette Cole : My soon-to-be-ex wants me , my boyfriend and my baby to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I got a DNA test done to end the drama , and now I ’ m in a dark place DEAR YOUNG VOTER : The beauty of the American democracy is that everybody is encouraged to have an opinion and to express it .
The First Amendment allows all of us the freedom of speech .
As you witnessed , there were opposing views about the Trump presidency when he was elected , and they continue to this day .
Our country is frighteningly polarized right now , with extreme views and voices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a young voter is to be fully informed about the issues .
This requires you to do independent research .
If you simply look at the news , you will glean information shared from a particular political perspective based on the news source you choose .
You need to pay attention to a healthy cross section of voices .
Dig deep to learn what the presidential candidates are saying about the issues , and ask questions when you are unsure .
You should also encourage your young friends to vote .
You have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Make sure that as many people as possible execute that power .
DEAR HARRIETTE : I ’ m a single father with four girls .
Their mother died about five years ago .
Now my girls are teens and adults .
One is off to college , and my oldest two are ready to move out .
It will be me on my own with my youngest .
I am so close with my girls , and I ’ m used to a full house .
I really don ’ t want my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how old they get , but I won ’ t say it to them .
I know they are responsible , but I feel like they are rushing to leave because they want to .
Why rush to be an adult and have bills when they can stay home with no worries ?
I just don ’ t want them to take the next step right away .
I can not figure out if I am trying to protect them or protect myself .
Should I tell them how I feel ?
DEAR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a time limit .
I am so sorry that you continue to feel residual grief and also that you are facing an empty nest with such trepidation .
This is not an easy transition for a parent .
And yet it is part of life .
Please do not put the burden of your emotional state on your girls .
You have to go through your process just as they have to become independent .
Instead , be supportive as you let them know that the family home will always be there for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grief counseling to help you sort through your feelings and set yourself on a healthy course for this new stage in your life .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams .
You can send questions to askharriette @ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: This upcoming election is important for minorities like myself.
I remember when Trump was elected president how scary it was to me. On my college campus, some students were happy, celebrating in the streets, and students like myself were filled with fear for our country. Those who were celebrating were screaming and yelling in the faces of those who displayed any type of discomfort or were saddened by the news.
For myself and my friends, it was a traumatizing event. Some of our clubs created support groups to discuss our feelings.
With November ahead, that day is the only thing that plays in my mind. How can I stay hopeful for the coming election and put aside the memories?
Young Voter
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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 DEAR YOUNG VOTER: The beauty of the American democracy is that everybody is encouraged to have an opinion and to express it. The First Amendment allows all of us the freedom of speech. As you witnessed, there were opposing views about the Trump presidency when he was elected, and they continue to this day.
Our country is frighteningly polarized right now, with extreme views and voices on both sides. Your job as a young voter is to be fully informed about the issues. This requires you to do independent research. If you simply look at the news, you will glean information shared from a particular political perspective based on the news source you choose. You need to pay attention to a healthy cross section of voices. Dig deep to learn what the presidential candidates are saying about the issues, and ask questions when you are unsure.
You should also encourage your young friends to vote. You have power in your ability to vote. Make sure that as many people as possible execute that power.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I’m a single father with four girls. Their mother died about five years ago.
Now my girls are teens and adults. One is off to college, and my oldest two are ready to move out. It will be me on my own with my youngest.
I am so close with my girls, and I’m used to a full house. I really don’t want my oldest to leave yet, no matter how old they get, but I won’t say it to them. I know they are responsible, but I feel like they are rushing to leave because they want to. Why rush to be an adult and have bills when they can stay home with no worries? I just don’t want them to take the next step right away.
I cannot figure out if I am trying to protect them or protect myself. Should I tell them how I feel?
Attached Daddy
DEAR ATTACHED DADDY: Grieving does not have a time limit. I am so sorry that you continue to feel residual grief and also that you are facing an empty nest with such trepidation. This is not an easy transition for a parent. And yet it is part of life. Please do not put the burden of your emotional state on your girls. You have to go through your process just as they have to become independent. Instead, be supportive as you let them know that the family home will always be there for them.
You may want to get grief counseling to help you sort through your feelings and set yourself on a healthy course for this new stage in your life.
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.


mercurynews--2020-08-29--Miss Manners: How do I let them know how special my gift is?

DEAR MISS MANNERS : I ’ d like to give two longtime friends , as a belated wedding gift , an antique platter that I bought in the U.K. 35 years ago .
( They had a family-only wedding , which is why I hadn ’ t fretted about not sending a gift earlier , plus I am somewhat financially limited . )
Knowing their taste , I ’ m sure they would like it , and it would mean a lot to me to part with something I treasure so that two people who have been kind to me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give it as a belated wedding gift ?
If not , may I give it as a “ Thank you for your many kindnesses ” gift ?
Also , is there a gracious way of saying , “ Although I didn ’ t buy this for you , this is a meaningful gesture because I love this item ” ?
I don ’ t want to sound tacky or martyr-y , and it would genuinely make me happy to give them a little pleasure , but I ’ d like them to understand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out some item that I was happy to part with .
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Miss Manners suggests that you present the platter with an accompanying note that gives its history and says something charming like , “ I have long treasured this antique , just as I have treasured our friendship .
I thought that you and Bertram might like it as an addition to your new household as a married couple.
” DEAR MISS MANNERS : Because of COVID-19 , my daughter is having a very small wedding .
The newlyweds are graduate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with three other graduate students , so they will only have a bedroom and bathroom to themselves for a couple of years .
Because of this , they have no room for wedding gifts .
Do we mention that to the guests , or just keep quiet ?
GENTLE READER : There is no polite way to say , “ Save your money ; they won ’ t have room for all that junk.
” If a guest specifically asks , you may say that the couple will be in tight living quarters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from home , like traveling .
Miss Manners is certain that someday they will be in a different living situation , however , and at that point will want household items .
In the meantime , she suggests that you clear some space in the basement .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : How would you respond to someone who says , “ Could you do something for me ?
Please and thank you.
” They think they are being polite , and I don ’ t want to embarrass them or hurt their feelings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reason that the “ please ” comes as the request is being made and the “ thank you ” comes afterward .
It wards off presumption — and a foregone conclusion where none was promised .
Miss Manners is not falling for it , and neither should you .
The response to it is to say in a light and teasing way , “ I ’ m sorry .
I seemed to have missed something .
To what did I already agree ?
” Please send your questions to Miss Manners at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email , dearmissmanners @ gmail.com ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners , Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’d like to give two longtime friends, as a belated wedding gift, an antique platter that I bought in the U.K. 35 years ago. (They had a family-only wedding, which is why I hadn’t fretted about not sending a gift earlier, plus I am somewhat financially limited.)
Knowing their taste, I’m sure they would like it, and it would mean a lot to me to part with something I treasure so that two people who have been kind to me could now enjoy it.
May I give it as a belated wedding gift? If not, may I give it as a “Thank you for your many kindnesses” gift? Also, is there a gracious way of saying, “Although I didn’t buy this for you, this is a meaningful gesture because I love this item”?
I don’t want to sound tacky or martyr-y, and it would genuinely make me happy to give them a little pleasure, but I’d like them to understand that I didn’t simply root out some item that I was happy to part with.
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GENTLE READER: There is a difference between what you suggest and simply unloading unwanted inventory. Miss Manners suggests that you present the platter with an accompanying note that gives its history and says something charming like, “I have long treasured this antique, just as I have treasured our friendship. I thought that you and Bertram might like it as an addition to your new household as a married couple.”
DEAR MISS MANNERS: Because of COVID-19, my daughter is having a very small wedding. The newlyweds are graduate students and will be sharing a house with three other graduate students, so they will only have a bedroom and bathroom to themselves for a couple of years.
Because of this, they have no room for wedding gifts. Do we mention that to the guests, or just keep quiet?
GENTLE READER: There is no polite way to say, “Save your money; they won’t have room for all that junk.”
If a guest specifically asks, you may say that the couple will be in tight living quarters or that they enjoy other activities away from home, like traveling. Miss Manners is certain that someday they will be in a different living situation, however, and at that point will want household items. In the meantime, she suggests that you clear some space in the basement.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: How would you respond to someone who says, “Could you do something for me? Please and thank you.” They think they are being polite, and I don’t want to embarrass them or hurt their feelings.
GENTLE READER: There’s a reason that the “please” comes as the request is being made and the “thank you” comes afterward. It wards off presumption — and a foregone conclusion where none was promised.
Miss Manners is not falling for it, and neither should you. The response to it is to say in a light and teasing way, “I’m sorry. I seemed to have missed something. To what did I already agree?”
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-08-29--Dear Abby: My kids ignored the cat so I gave her away. Now I’m the bad guy.

DEAR ABBY : I ’ m recently divorced .
Because of my work schedule and moving to a smaller place , I no longer am able to properly care for our family cat .
My kids ( all under 10 ) barely acknowledge her , so I put an ad in the paper .
A family called , came to see her one day and took her home with them while the kids were at school .
I told them that “ Frisky ” was going to go to a new home , but I didn ’ t know when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m the bad guy because the kids never got to say goodbye .
I contacted the new family and asked if we could come visit her to say goodbye .
They reluctantly agreed but won ’ t be available for a few weeks .
Their young daughter has bonded with Frisky .
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• Dear Abby : He brags about things he can ’ t possibly have done • Dear Abby : The rest of my family is proud of our name , but I want to change it In your opinion , which is better for kids — to visit Frisky in her new home and say goodbye , or just let time heal this wound ?
DEAR BAD MOM : Losing a pet is something children never forget .
The pain of losing Frisky will heal more quickly if your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has a home in which she ’ s well taken care of and a family that loves her .
DEAR ABBY : Something has been bothering me for a long time .
When I attend family functions , I become extremely bored .
Whether they are birthday parties or Christmas Eve celebrations , they bore me to tears .
To be honest , I would prefer not to attend , but I don ’ t want to offend anyone .
Must I continue to be polite , or can I just stop attending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would move farther away .
Please offer an opinion .
DEAR BORED : Gladly .
You don ’ t have more money , and moving away is not an option .
I ’ m sure this has been less of an issue recently because of the pandemic .
Family celebrations are more about support and solidarity than scintillation .
While it would be understandable that you might not be available for each and every event , if you skip more than you go to , there will be hurt feelings .
So , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is behind us , you should go .
Rather than dwell on being “ entertained , ” concentrate on making the occasion enjoyable for others .
You might also consider doing what I have observed politicians doing , which is making an appearance at these gatherings and leaving early .
DEAR ABBY : I ’ m a 63-year-old reader , widowed for eight years .
I ’ d like to date and marry again , but I have one concern .
Many men lose sexual potency with age .
( I believe in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what point is it appropriate to address this issue ?
I don ’ t want it to seem as if I wish to remarry only for sex .
I might consider marrying for companionship if everything else was good , but I think it ’ s something I should know before marrying .
DEAR KAY : I agree with your last statement .
It ’ s important to know what you ’ re buying into before taking on the challenge of marriage .
That ’ s why , in order to avoid any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as soon as the relationship starts to appear serious .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: I’m recently divorced. Because of my work schedule and moving to a smaller place, I no longer am able to properly care for our family cat. My kids (all under 10) barely acknowledge her, so I put an ad in the paper.
A family called, came to see her one day and took her home with them while the kids were at school. I told them that “Frisky” was going to go to a new home, but I didn’t know when until the day it happened. Now I’m the bad guy because the kids never got to say goodbye.
I contacted the new family and asked if we could come visit her to say goodbye. They reluctantly agreed but won’t be available for a few weeks. Their young daughter has bonded with Frisky.
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BAD MOM IN MINNESOTA
DEAR BAD MOM: Losing a pet is something children never forget. The pain of losing Frisky will heal more quickly if your children see for themselves that their pet has a home in which she’s well taken care of and a family that loves her.
DEAR ABBY: Something has been bothering me for a long time. When I attend family functions, I become extremely bored.
Whether they are birthday parties or Christmas Eve celebrations, they bore me to tears. To be honest, I would prefer not to attend, but I don’t want to offend anyone. Must I continue to be polite, or can I just stop attending?
If I had more money I would move farther away. Please offer an opinion.
BORED IN NEW YORK
DEAR BORED: Gladly. You don’t have more money, and moving away is not an option. I’m sure this has been less of an issue recently because of the pandemic. Family celebrations are more about support and solidarity than scintillation.
While it would be understandable that you might not be available for each and every event, if you skip more than you go to, there will be hurt feelings. So, in my opinion, once the pandemic is behind us, you should go. Rather than dwell on being “entertained,” concentrate on making the occasion enjoyable for others. You might also consider doing what I have observed politicians doing, which is making an appearance at these gatherings and leaving early.
DEAR ABBY: I’m a 63-year-old reader, widowed for eight years. I’d like to date and marry again, but I have one concern. Many men lose sexual potency with age. (I believe in waiting until after marriage.) At what point is it appropriate to address this issue?
I don’t want it to seem as if I wish to remarry only for sex. I might consider marrying for companionship if everything else was good, but I think it’s something I should know before marrying.
KAY IN WEST VIRGINIA
DEAR KAY: I agree with your last statement. It’s important to know what you’re buying into before taking on the challenge of marriage. That’s why, in order to avoid any surprises, you should ask your question as soon as the relationship starts to appear serious.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.


mercurynews--2020-08-29--Jacob Blake shooting sparks protests in San Jose, Oakland

SAN JOSE – Hundreds of people gathered in San Jose and Oakland on Friday night to protest the Wisconsin police shooting of Jacob Blake .
Blake , a Black man , was shot seven times by Kenosha police Officer Rusten Sheskey on Sunday .
He survived the shooting but was left paralyzed from the waist down .
The protests , which also coincided with the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington , are the latest to draw attention to police brutality .
Bay Area cities also saw protests earlier this year following the in-custody death of George Floyd in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shooting of Erik Salgado in Oakland .
In San Jose , protesters gathered outside City Hall and marched through the streets carrying signs and chanting slogans .
At one point , they stopped to do the Cupid Shuffle at San Pedro Square and then went to Mayor Sam Liccardo ’ s home , where one person was caught on camera spray-painting graffiti across the front door .
About 250 people took to the streets in Oakland .
Around 11 p.m. , police said a group was blocking the intersection at 14th Street and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group to leave the roadway.
” More than a dozen people were arrested , including one on suspicion of pointing a laser at an officer , police said .
Lasers were also allegedly pointed at officers at a protest in Oakland on Wednesday .
In addition , “ agitators in the crowd ” smashed windows and set fires , including one inside the Alameda County Superior Court building at 1225 Fallon St. , police said .
Back in San Jose on Friday , Liccardo ’ s neighbors helped him scrub away the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this angry , they need to find a better way to deal with it than taking it out on innocent individuals , ” said Amy Glazman about the protesters .
“ And , yes , people have a right to be angry because things are screwed up right now , but this is the wrong way to do it.
” Liccardo said he was grateful for the help of his neighbors .
It ’ s not the first time his home – or the home of Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf – has been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We ’ ve just come to realize this is part of the job , ” Liccardo said .
“ The reality is there are a lot of people who are suffering in real ways right now and this is nothing compared to what a lot of people are going through in the community right now.
” The city , Liccardo said , is taking steps to address concerns community members have raised about systemic racism and police brutality , including an upcoming ban on rubber bullets and expanding the San Jose Independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And there will be plenty more to come , ” Liccado said .

San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo criticized several people who spray-painted his home Friday night after hundreds gathered across the city in a new round of demonstrations against systemic and police brutality, this time sparked by the Wisconsin police shooting of Black resident Jacob Blake.
Blake was shot seven times by Kenosha police Officer Rusten Sheskey on Sunday, spawning widespread rallies and condemnations from civil rights leaders, politicians and communities across the nation. He survived the shooting but was left paralyzed from the waist down.
Protesters gathered outside City Hall and marched through the streets carrying signs and chanting slogans. At one point, a group of protesters stopped to do the Cupid Shuffle at San Pedro Square; later, several people marked the front of Liccardo’s home with messages like “BLM” and “San Jose will be free soon,” along with Blake’s name. Video of the latter incident captured by San Jose Inside also showed people throwing objects and a fire burning in the street.
“I’m tremendously heartened by the response of dozens of my neighbors who dropped everything late last night to spend a couple of hours scrubbing graffiti,” Liccardo said Saturday, adding, “They contrast sharply with the roughly hundred so-called ‘protesters’ who stood by silently — or even cheered — as a flag was burned and while ‘f— you’ and other messages were scrawled on our home.”
San Jose police responded to the spray-painting at Liccardo’s home, according to Officer Steven Aponte; they later arrested one person in relation to a separate vandalism incident at City Hall.
#BLM protesters do the Cupid Shuffle outside Old Wagon Saloon in downtown San José pic.twitter.com/fJq0u9gbH6 — Luke Johnson (@Scoop_Johnson) August 29, 2020
The protests, which also coincided with the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington, are among a series that have gripped the Bay Area this spring and summer. San Jose and Oakland in particular saw massive turnout for about 10 days in early June after the police killing of Minneapolis man George Floyd and the fatal California Highway Patrol shooting of Erik Salgado in Oakland.
#BLM protesters do the Cupid Shuffle outside Old Wagon Saloon in downtown San José pic.twitter.com/fJq0u9gbH6 — Luke Johnson (@Scoop_Johnson) August 29, 2020
Demonstrators spray paint over San José Mayor Sam Liccardo’s house. Several protesters and organizers at the scene came up to me and said they “don’t agree with this.” #BlackLivesMatter @SJSpotlight pic.twitter.com/z4iRmrau6b — Luke Johnson (@Scoop_Johnson) August 29, 2020
About 250 people also took to the streets in Oakland. Around 11 p.m., police said a group was blocking the intersection at 14th Street and Broadway, and “officers were advising the group to leave the roadway.”
Tear gas used as Oakland protest walks up Broadway pic.twitter.com/nXLj1CUn3f — Roland Li (@rolandlisf) August 29, 2020
More than a dozen people were arrested, including one on suspicion of pointing a laser at an officer, police said.
Appox 250 people took part in a protests Friday night. OPD made more than a dozen arrests for various crimes including assault on an officer pointing a laser at police and a news crew. The crowd has dispersed and roadways are open. pic.twitter.com/jyTrjlAtIq — Oakland Police Dept. (@oaklandpoliceca) August 29, 2020
Lasers were also allegedly pointed at officers at a protest in Oakland on Wednesday. In addition, “agitators in the crowd” smashed windows and set fires, including one inside the Alameda County Superior Court building at 1225 Fallon St., police said.
Back in San Jose, the spray-painting of Liccardo’s home came at the end of a summer filled with fraught discussions over policing and systemic racism in the nation’s 10th-largest city. As hundreds of San Jose residents have called for defunding the force, city leaders are in talks with Silicon Valley real estate billionaire John Arrillaga for the potential development of an approximately $43 million-plus police training and academy complex, this news organization first reported.
The council has voted to maintain the police force’s $449 million budget, setting aside almost $2 million for new equity and policing reforms.
It wasn’t the first time Liccardo’s home – or the home of Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf – has been vandalized in connection with a protest.
“We’ve just come to realize this is part of the job,” Liccardo said. “The reality is there are a lot of people who are suffering in real ways right now and this is nothing compared to what a lot of people are going through in the community right now.”


mercurynews--2020-08-29--Milpitas: One killed in fiery crash near Ed Levin County Park

The CHP said one person was killed in a crash at Felter and Marsh roads near Milpitas on Friday , @ @ @ @ @ MILPITAS – One person was killed in a fiery crash near Ed Levin County Park @ @ @ @ @ the California Highway Patrol .
The crash was reported at Felter and Marsh roads just @ @ @ @ @ CHP Officer Ross Lee .
Lee said a car , possibly a Ford Focus , @ @ @ @ @ into flames .
Officers initially believed the car was unoccupied , but a person was @ @ @ @ @ the scene .
No other information was immediately available Friday .

The CHP said one person was killed in a crash at Felter and Marsh roads near Milpitas on Friday, Aug. 28, 2020.
MILPITAS – One person was killed in a fiery crash near Ed Levin County Park late Friday, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The crash was reported at Felter and Marsh roads just after 9 p.m., said CHP Officer Ross Lee.
Lee said a car, possibly a Ford Focus, hit a tree and burst into flames. Officers initially believed the car was unoccupied, but a person was found and pronounced dead at the scene.
No other information was immediately available Friday.
Check back for updates.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--California moves to consider reparations for slavery

SACRAMENTO , Calif. ( AP ) — California lawmakers are setting up a task force to study and make recommendations for reparations to African Americans , particularly the descendants of slaves , as the nation struggles again with civil rights and unrest following the latest shooting of a Black man by police .
The state Senate supported creating the nine-member commission on a bipartisan 33-3 vote Saturday .
The measure returns to the Assembly for a final vote before lawmakers adjourn for the year on Monday , though Assembly members overwhelmingly already approved an earlier version of the bill .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Chattel slavery , both in California and across our nation , birthed a legacy of racial harm and inequity that continues to impact the conditions of Black life in California , ” said Democratic Sen. Holly Mitchell of Los Angeles .
She cited disproportionate homelessness , unemployment , involvement in the criminal justice system , lower academic performance and higher health risks during the coronavirus pandemic .
Although California before the Civil War was officially a free state , Mitchell listed legal and judicial steps state officials took at the time to support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The legislation would require the task force to conduct a detailed study of the impact of slavery in California and recommend to the Legislature by July 2023 the form of compensation that should be awarded , how it should be awarded , and who should be should be eligible for compensation .
The panel , which would start meeting no later than June 2021 , could also recommend other forms of rehabilitation or redress .
In the last two years , Texas , New York , and Vermont have considered similar legislation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It said reparations could take the form of cash , housing assistance , lower tuition , forgiving student loans , job training or community investments , for instance .
Sen. Steven Bradford , a Democrat from Gardena who supported the bill , said he only wished it was more than a study .
He noted that Friday marked the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington and The Rev .
Dr. Martin Luther King , Jr. ’ s “ I Have a Dream ” speech .
“ If the 40 acres and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were delivered to the descendants of those slaves today , we would all be billionaires , ” Bradford said .
“ I hear far too many people say , ‘ Well , I didn ’ t own slaves , that was so long ago.
’ Well , you inherit wealth — you can inherit the debt that you owe to African-Americans .
”

By DON THOMPSON
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California lawmakers are setting up a task force to study and make recommendations for reparations to African Americans, particularly the descendants of slaves, as the nation struggles again with civil rights and unrest following the latest shooting of a Black man by police.
The state Senate supported creating the nine-member commission on a bipartisan 33-3 vote Saturday. The measure returns to the Assembly for a final vote before lawmakers adjourn for the year on Monday, though Assembly members overwhelmingly already approved an earlier version of the bill.
“Let’s be clear: Chattel slavery, both in California and across our nation, birthed a legacy of racial harm and inequity that continues to impact the conditions of Black life in California,” said Democratic Sen. Holly Mitchell of Los Angeles.
She cited disproportionate homelessness, unemployment, involvement in the criminal justice system, lower academic performance and higher health risks during the coronavirus pandemic.
Although California before the Civil War was officially a free state, Mitchell listed legal and judicial steps state officials took at the time to support slavery in Southern states while repressing Blacks.
The legislation would require the task force to conduct a detailed study of the impact of slavery in California and recommend to the Legislature by July 2023 the form of compensation that should be awarded, how it should be awarded, and who should be should be eligible for compensation.
The panel, which would start meeting no later than June 2021, could also recommend other forms of rehabilitation or redress.
In the last two years, Texas, New York, and Vermont have considered similar legislation, according to a legislative analysis. It said reparations could take the form of cash, housing assistance, lower tuition, forgiving student loans, job training or community investments, for instance.
Sen. Steven Bradford, a Democrat from Gardena who supported the bill, said he only wished it was more than a study.
He noted that Friday marked the 57th anniversary of the March on Washington and The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.
“If the 40 acres and a mule that was promised to free slaves were delivered to the descendants of those slaves today, we would all be billionaires,” Bradford said. “I hear far too many people say, ‘Well, I didn’t own slaves, that was so long ago.’ Well, you inherit wealth — you can inherit the debt that you owe to African-Americans.”
____
The bill is AB3121.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Photos: Group thanks firefighters battling the wildfires

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the slideshow on a mobile device .
Members of the Fremont and @ @ @ @ @ at the intersection of Bernal Avenue and Valley Avenue holding signs encouraging vehicles to honk @ @ @ @ @ California wildfires .
The group also cheered and waved to passing fire trucks entering and @ @ @ @ @ firefighters located at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton .
Throughout the week , the @ @ @ @ @ in the morning and again in the evening .
Cal Fire and other firefighters from @ @ @ @ @ battling wildfires caused by lightning in Northern California .
The Pleasanton base camp is located @ @ @ @ @ that encompasses parts of Santa Clara County , Alameda County , Contra Costa County , @ @ @ @ @ , and Stanislaus Counties .
Currently , the SCU Complex Fire has burned 374,471 acres @ @ @ @ @ wildfire in California ’ s recorded history .

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the slideshow on a mobile device.
Members of the Fremont and Hayward Resonate Church campuses stood at the intersection of Bernal Avenue and Valley Avenue holding signs encouraging vehicles to honk and support firefighters battling numerous California wildfires. The group also cheered and waved to passing fire trucks entering and exiting a base camp for firefighters located at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. Throughout the week, the group has shown their support in the morning and again in the evening.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Movie review: ‘Bill & Ted Face the Music’ hits familiar beats of burnout besties’ adventures

It ’ s been 30 years since Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves charmed audiences as the goofy , time-traveling metal heads Bill S. Preston , Esq.
, and Ted “ Theodore ” Logan in “ Bill & Ted ’ s Excellent Adventure ” and “ Bill & Ted ’ s Bogus Journey.
” In the third installment , “ Bill & Ted Face the Music , ” Reeves and Winter revisit their quintessential burnout bestie characters in a film that offers up an easy dose of nostalgia .
In “ Excellent Adventure , ” Bill and Ted had to pass @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they did by assembling historic figures using a time-traveling phone booth .
In “ Bogus Journey , ” Bill and Ted escape from hell to win the Battle of the Bands as the Wyld Stallyns .
Many , many years later , they ’ re still holding onto those rock ‘ n ’ roll dreams .
In “ Face the Music , ” written by original writers Chris Matheson and Ed Solomon , and directed by Dean Parisot , Bill and Ted face their midlife crisis .
The codependent bros haven ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which has hampered their lives with their wives , medieval princesses Joanna ( Jayma Mays ) and Elizabeth ( Erinn Hayes ) , evident in a disastrous couples therapy session .
They ’ re the proud fathers of the music-obsessed Billie ( Brigette Lundy-Paine ) and Thea ( Samara Weaving ) , but they ’ re far more dude than dad .
But soon , time travel calls , in the form of Kelly ( Kristen Schaal ) , the daughter of their former futuristic leader Rufus ( George Carlin ) , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will unite reality and prevent the timeline from collapsing in on itself .
With only a few hours , Bill and Ted harness their time-travel prowess to snatch the song from their future selves , and their journey through time will help them learn to unite their own realities with their families .
“ Face the Music ” has all the gravitas one might expect from a “ Bill & Ted ” movie , which is to say , almost none .
It ’ s fun to watch Winter ( now a prolific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wick ) step back into these roles , though the cognitive dissonance between sweet doofus Ted and the Reeves we have come to know as a serious , laconic action star is a long leap .
Weaving and Lundy-Paine prove to be the breakouts of “ Face the Music , ” nailing the mannerisms of their fathers .
Their chunk of the story , traveling through time to scoop up the best musicians to back the Wyld Stallyns , could ( or should ) have been the whole movie .
Another standout is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on HBO ’ s “ Barry ” ) as a deadly yet neurotic robot , chasing Bill and Ted through time as they track down their various future selves in search of their reality-uniting song .
His white cue-ball head is a nod to William Sadler ’ s incredible turn as Death in “ Bogus Journey , ” and Sadler reprises his role here , as well as Hal Landon Jr. as Chief Logan and Amy Stoch as omnipresent stepmother Missy .
• Review : ‘ Tenet ’ is the right escape for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ All Together Now ’ is a sweet call to help others • Review : Chaos , hilarity and hijinks in the Scottish Highlands • 20 years later , ‘ Bring It On ’ still gets the cheers Although one shouldn ’ t expect realism , what rings false is the casting of Hayes and Mays as the duo ’ s wives .
They ’ re over a decade younger than Reeves and Winter , as well as two different sets of actresses than who played the princesses in the prior films , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time travel but in the worst , most Hollywood way .
Bill and Ted bouncing through time means the narratives of these films are merely loose assortments of kooky bits and cameos , and “ Face the Music ” doesn ’ t stray from that .
While it doesn ’ t quite gel cohesively , in this casual kickback with a pair of old pals , it ’ s the dudes who remain excellent .

It’s been 30 years since Alex Winter and Keanu Reeves charmed audiences as the goofy, time-traveling metal heads Bill S. Preston, Esq., and Ted “Theodore” Logan in “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” and “Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey.” In the third installment, “Bill & Ted Face the Music,” Reeves and Winter revisit their quintessential burnout bestie characters in a film that offers up an easy dose of nostalgia.
In “Excellent Adventure,” Bill and Ted had to pass history to avoid military school, which they did by assembling historic figures using a time-traveling phone booth. In “Bogus Journey,” Bill and Ted escape from hell to win the Battle of the Bands as the Wyld Stallyns. Many, many years later, they’re still holding onto those rock ‘n’ roll dreams. In “Face the Music,” written by original writers Chris Matheson and Ed Solomon, and directed by Dean Parisot, Bill and Ted face their midlife crisis.
The codependent bros haven’t grown up much over the years, which has hampered their lives with their wives, medieval princesses Joanna (Jayma Mays) and Elizabeth (Erinn Hayes), evident in a disastrous couples therapy session. They’re the proud fathers of the music-obsessed Billie (Brigette Lundy-Paine) and Thea (Samara Weaving), but they’re far more dude than dad. But soon, time travel calls, in the form of Kelly (Kristen Schaal), the daughter of their former futuristic leader Rufus (George Carlin), who tasks them with performing a song that will unite reality and prevent the timeline from collapsing in on itself. With only a few hours, Bill and Ted harness their time-travel prowess to snatch the song from their future selves, and their journey through time will help them learn to unite their own realities with their families.
“Face the Music” has all the gravitas one might expect from a “Bill & Ted” movie, which is to say, almost none. It’s fun to watch Winter (now a prolific director) and Reeves (now John Wick) step back into these roles, though the cognitive dissonance between sweet doofus Ted and the Reeves we have come to know as a serious, laconic action star is a long leap.
Weaving and Lundy-Paine prove to be the breakouts of “Face the Music,” nailing the mannerisms of their fathers. Their chunk of the story, traveling through time to scoop up the best musicians to back the Wyld Stallyns, could (or should) have been the whole movie. Another standout is Anthony Carrigan (who plays NoHo Hank on HBO’s “Barry”) as a deadly yet neurotic robot, chasing Bill and Ted through time as they track down their various future selves in search of their reality-uniting song. His white cue-ball head is a nod to William Sadler’s incredible turn as Death in “Bogus Journey,” and Sadler reprises his role here, as well as Hal Landon Jr. as Chief Logan and Amy Stoch as omnipresent stepmother Missy.
Although one shouldn’t expect realism, what rings false is the casting of Hayes and Mays as the duo’s wives. They’re over a decade younger than Reeves and Winter, as well as two different sets of actresses than who played the princesses in the prior films, and the age difference makes it feel like time travel but in the worst, most Hollywood way.
Bill and Ted bouncing through time means the narratives of these films are merely loose assortments of kooky bits and cameos, and “Face the Music” doesn’t stray from that. While it doesn’t quite gel cohesively, in this casual kickback with a pair of old pals, it’s the dudes who remain excellent.
‘BILL & TED FACE THE MUSIC’
2½ stars out of 4
Rating: PG-13 (language)
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Alex Winter, Samara Weaving, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Erinn Hayes, Jayma Mays, William Sadler, Anthony Carrigan
Director: Dean Parisot.
Running time: 1 hour, 28 minutes.
When & where: Available now on Video on Demand on multiple platforms