mercurynews--2020-01-11--Dear Abby: If I’m her dearest friend, why am I not on the list?

DEAR ABBY : I have had a friend , “ Kimberly , ” for 52 years , ever since first grade .
We went all through school together .
Teachers described her as a “ social butterfly.
” My dad described her as a “ phony.
” She ’ s an extrovert with a nice personality and many friends .
I am more of an introvert , but I do have a few good friends .
We are both happily married with children and grandchildren .
I moved from our hometown 28 years ago , but we have stayed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my birthday , etc .
We talk on the phone every few months and meet for lunch when I go back to visit .
She refers to me as her “ oldest and dearest friend.
” I invited Kim to all four of my children ’ s weddings .
She didn ’ t attend but sent gifts .
( Kim has anxiety and doesn ’ t like to travel . )
When her older son got married two years ago , I wasn ’ t invited , but I sent a generous gift @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being married , and again , I ’ m not invited .
• Dear Abby : My dates seem to expect things I can ’ t afford • Dear Abby : They ridicule me for my food choices • Dear Abby : My husband is weirdly close to his sister , and people are noticing • Dear Abby : I said something in the job interview that I regret • Dear Abby : Her husband died .
Who gets his GoFundMe money ?
I ’ d like to share in Kim ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d like to see .
I feel like a fool .
Do you think my dad was right about Kim ?
Am I on her “ C ” list when I thought I was “ A ” -rated ?
I feel like a 12-year-old who was excluded from a slumber party .
Should I tell her how hurt I am or continue the next 20 years in this “ phony ” relationship ?
DEAR SUCKER-PUNCHED : Do not quietly nurture a grudge that may end your long friendship with Kim .
Have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your feelings .
Depending upon who has footed the bill for these shindigs , you may be blaming the wrong person .
Traditionally , the bride ’ s parents pay for their daughter ’ s wedding ; more recently , the happy couples pay for it themselves .
For financial reasons , they may have needed to curtail the guest list , which is why you weren ’ t invited .
Also , the young couple may have preferred to include more of their own friends , which limited the number of invitations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
DEAR ABBY : I am a senior citizen who lives alone .
I was married many years ago , but it ended in divorce .
I was unable to conceive a child .
My brothers and sisters all have spouses and children .
I am an aunt to many .
My problem ?
The children don ’ t call me “ Aunt ” anymore .
When they were little , it gave me such warm feelings to be called Aunt or Auntie .
It made me feel loved and respected .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their own , they call me by my first name .
Am I silly to be bothered by this ?
These same nieces and nephews still call their parents “ Mom ” and “ Dad.
” I called my own aunts by the title well into my 50s until they died .
Abby , am I old-fashioned to want to keep my title in a world where respect seems to be a thing of the past ?
DEAR AUNTIE : I don ’ t think you are silly , and whether you are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the point .
Tell your nieces and nephews how much you appreciated being called “ Aunt , ” and ask them to resume using the title .
If you had a close relationship with them while they were growing up , I am sure they will respect your wish — especially when you tell them why .
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 , @ @ @ @ @ @

DEAR ABBY: I have had a friend, “Kimberly,” for 52 years, ever since first grade. We went all through school together. Teachers described her as a “social butterfly.” My dad described her as a “phony.” She’s an extrovert with a nice personality and many friends. I am more of an introvert, but I do have a few good friends. We are both happily married with children and grandchildren.
I moved from our hometown 28 years ago, but we have stayed in contact. Kim will call me on my birthday, etc. We talk on the phone every few months and meet for lunch when I go back to visit. She refers to me as her “oldest and dearest friend.”
I invited Kim to all four of my children’s weddings. She didn’t attend but sent gifts. (Kim has anxiety and doesn’t like to travel.) When her older son got married two years ago, I wasn’t invited, but I sent a generous gift. Now, her younger son is being married, and again, I’m not invited.
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I feel like a fool. Do you think my dad was right about Kim? Am I on her “C” list when I thought I was “A”-rated? I feel like a 12-year-old who was excluded from a slumber party.
Should I tell her how hurt I am or continue the next 20 years in this “phony” relationship?
SUCKER-PUNCHED IN KANSAS
DEAR SUCKER-PUNCHED: Do not quietly nurture a grudge that may end your long friendship with Kim. Have a talk with your old friend about your feelings. Depending upon who has footed the bill for these shindigs, you may be blaming the wrong person.
Traditionally, the bride’s parents pay for their daughter’s wedding; more recently, the happy couples pay for it themselves. For financial reasons, they may have needed to curtail the guest list, which is why you weren’t invited.
Also, the young couple may have preferred to include more of their own friends, which limited the number of invitations the groom’s parents could issue.
DEAR ABBY: I am a senior citizen who lives alone. I was married many years ago, but it ended in divorce. I was unable to conceive a child.
My brothers and sisters all have spouses and children. I am an aunt to many. My problem? The children don’t call me “Aunt” anymore. When they were little, it gave me such warm feelings to be called Aunt or Auntie. It made me feel loved and respected. Now that they are grown with kids of their own, they call me by my first name.
Am I silly to be bothered by this? These same nieces and nephews still call their parents “Mom” and “Dad.” I called my own aunts by the title well into my 50s until they died. Abby, am I old-fashioned to want to keep my title in a world where respect seems to be a thing of the past?
FOREVER AUNTIE IN MINNESOTA
DEAR AUNTIE: I don’t think you are silly, and whether you are old-fashioned (or not) is beside the point. Tell your nieces and nephews how much you appreciated being called “Aunt,” and ask them to resume using the title.
If you had a close relationship with them while they were growing up, I am sure they will respect your wish — especially when you tell them why.
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--2020-01-11--High school basketball roundup: O’Dowd, Bellarmine get back on track

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the slideshow on a mobile device .
Put it this way , Bishop O ’ Dowd vs. San Leandro doesn ’ t lack in drama .
As Friday night ’ s JV basketball game prolonged between the schools separated by 3.1 miles , the gymnasium kept filling up to capacity .
This required the stage to open for more fans to watch the action between these rivals .
In the end , O ’ Dowd snapped a four-game skid — the result of a rugged non-league schedule — with a 72-54 victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ along with wild swings .
“ The JV game at halftime , we were like , ‘ Wow , this is filling up , ’ ” BOD coach Lou Richie said .
“ Every stoppage of play they ’ d let 10 to 15 people come in .
This was the most crowded I ’ d seen in the San Leandro gym .
Maybe there was just blood in the water , they were expecting to beat us and blow us out .
But it was a good atmosphere and a lot of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ competitive game.
” In its West Alameda County Foothill Division opener , O ’ Dowd ( 6-7 , 1-0 ) faced adversity barely two minutes into the game .
Cal commit Monty Bowser , a 6-foot-5 forward , was ejected during an inbounds play on the opposite end of the court .
“ My understanding is they threw him out the game for a flagrant elbow , ” said Richie , who plans to appeal the automatic suspension for next Wednesday ’ s game at Piedmont .
San Leandro ( 11-4 , 0-1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fortune , as the Pirates trailed 19-11 at the end of the first quarter and found themselves behind by as much as 39-21 in the second quarter .
Must of the punishment was self-inflicted , with 13 turnovers before intermission .
“ All week we watched a lot film and just talked about putting on-ball pressure and really helping off the pick-and-roll and trying to create opportunities for us to take chargers and make them make difficult shots , ” Richie said .
San Leandro managed to cut the deficit to 46-39 within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as forward Siri Sawyers accounted for 18 points and six dunks , including one-handed putback , while point guard Hikifo ’ ou Maile added 15 points .
But the Pirates kept shooting themselves in the foot by going 7 of 21 from the charity stripe , allowing BOD to pull away in the fourth quarter .
And O ’ Dowd did it without Bowser .
“ We ’ ve had other situations over the first 12 games where we ’ ve had somebody go down and we ’ ve stayed true to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Richie said .
“ I don ’ t think anybody was shook up , I don ’ t think anybody was rattled .
We believe in each other and there ’ s a lot of good players on the basketball team .
“ We just tried to rally for Monty .
At halftime , he had some words for us .
And in the second half he was right there on the bench supporting his teammates.
” The bench also played a big role with 19 points .
“ We have 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have seven seniors and seven juniors , ” Richie said .
“ So we have a lot of belief that there ’ s more than just Monte Bowser , that there ’ s some players out there that when called can make the plays and come in and play defense .
And it ’ s not necessarily about just the points .
In fact , that ’ s what I was trying to encourage the kids , it ’ s , ‘ Don ’ t be that guy that feels he needs to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , just come in and don ’ t make mistakes.
’ ” Try making sense to the start of the West Catholic Athletic League boys basketball season .
Act 3 : Bellarmine dominates in the second half , wins at Mitty .
Yup , three games in , the league makes absolutely no sense .
Friday , top-ranked Mitty had a seven-point lead in the third quarter against second-ranked Bellarmine before the Bells caught fire behind senior point guard Quinn Denker .
Spurred by a massive run , Bellarmine went on to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ house to run its record to 12-1 overall and 2-1 in the WCAL .
The Bells went on a 20-4 surge to take a 41-32 lead into the fourth quarter and did not slow down as they broke Mitty ’ s press for easy layups — many by Kyle Lewis — over and over down the stretch .
Denker scored 13 of his 17 points after halftime .
Lewis finished with 14 points ( 12 after the break ) and eight rebounds .
Michael Mitchell had 23 points and nine rebounds for Mitty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday home game against the only team yet to lose in WCAL play , Serra , a 69-62 winner over Sacred Heart Cathedral on Friday .
Archbishop Riordan built a 14-point halftime lead on the road against St. Francis and did not look back , rolling to a 66-40 win over St. Ignatius before a capacity crowd in San Francisco .
Jelani Clark had 20 points and five assists and Robert Vaihola added 12 points and nine rebounds to lead Riordan , which improved to 11-2 , 2-1 .
S.I .
fell to @ @ @ @

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the slideshow on a mobile device.
Put it this way, Bishop O’Dowd vs. San Leandro doesn’t lack in drama.
As Friday night’s JV basketball game prolonged between the schools separated by 3.1 miles, the gymnasium kept filling up to capacity. This required the stage to open for more fans to watch the action between these rivals.
In the end, O’Dowd snapped a four-game skid — the result of a rugged non-league schedule — with a 72-54 victory on the road that featured tense moments along with wild swings.
“The JV game at halftime, we were like, ‘Wow, this is filling up,’ ” BOD coach Lou Richie said. “Every stoppage of play they’d let 10 to 15 people come in. This was the most crowded I’d seen in the San Leandro gym. Maybe there was just blood in the water, they were expecting to beat us and blow us out. But it was a good atmosphere and a lot of people got a chance to watch a competitive game.”
In its West Alameda County Foothill Division opener, O’Dowd (6-7, 1-0) faced adversity barely two minutes into the game.
Cal commit Monty Bowser, a 6-foot-5 forward, was ejected during an inbounds play on the opposite end of the court.
“My understanding is they threw him out the game for a flagrant elbow,” said Richie, who plans to appeal the automatic suspension for next Wednesday’s game at Piedmont.
San Leandro (11-4, 0-1) couldn’t capitalize on its fortune, as the Pirates trailed 19-11 at the end of the first quarter and found themselves behind by as much as 39-21 in the second quarter.
Much of the punishment was self-inflicted, with 13 turnovers before intermission.
“All week we watched a lot film and just talked about putting on-ball pressure and really helping off the pick-and-roll and trying to create opportunities for us to take chargers and make them make difficult shots,” Richie said.
San Leandro managed to cut the deficit to 46-39 within the final minute of the third quarter, as forward Siri Sawyers accounted for 18 points and six dunks, including one-handed putback, while point guard Hikifo’ou Maile added 15 points.
But the Pirates kept shooting themselves in the foot by going 7 of 21 from the charity stripe, allowing BOD to pull away in the fourth quarter.
And O’Dowd did it without Bowser.
“We’ve had other situations over the first 12 games where we’ve had somebody go down and we’ve stayed true to the saying: Next man up,” Richie said. “I don’t think anybody was shook up, I don’t think anybody was rattled. We believe in each other and there’s a lot of good players on the basketball team.
“We just tried to rally for Monty. At halftime, he had some words for us. And in the second half he was right there on the bench supporting his teammates.”
Point guard Ryzon Norris delivered 15 points, while 6-4 junior Marsalis Roberson finished with a game-high 20 points.
The bench also played a big role with 19 points.
“We have 16 people on the varsity, and we have seven seniors and seven juniors,” Richie said. “So we have a lot of belief that there’s more than just Monte Bowser, that there’s some players out there that when called can make the plays and come in and play defense. And it’s not necessarily about just the points. In fact, that’s what I was trying to encourage the kids, it’s, ‘Don’t be that guy that feels he needs to make a play in the first minute, just come in and don’t make mistakes.’ ”
WCAL
Try making sense to the start of the West Catholic Athletic League boys basketball season.
Act 1: Mitty rolls past St. Francis on the road.
Act 2: St. Francis stuns Bellarmine in San Jose.
Act 3: Bellarmine dominates in the second half, wins at Mitty.
Yup, three games in, the league makes absolutely no sense.
Friday, top-ranked Mitty had a seven-point lead in the third quarter against second-ranked Bellarmine before the Bells caught fire behind senior point guard Quinn Denker.
Spurred by a massive run, Bellarmine went on to a 68-56 victory in front of a packed house to run its record to 12-1 overall and 2-1 in the WCAL.
Mitty fell to 11-2, 2-1.
The Bells went on a 20-4 surge to take a 41-32 lead into the fourth quarter and did not slow down as they broke Mitty’s press for easy layups — many by Kyle Lewis — over and over down the stretch.
Denker scored 13 of his 17 points after halftime. Lewis finished with 14 points (12 after the break) and eight rebounds.
Michael Mitchell had 23 points and nine rebounds for Mitty.
Next up for Bellarmine is a Tuesday home game against the only team yet to lose in WCAL play, Serra, a 69-62 winner over Sacred Heart Cathedral on Friday.
Mitty visits SHC on Tuesday.
Elsewhere
Archbishop Riordan built a 14-point halftime lead on the road against St. Ignatius and did not look back, rolling to a 66-40 win before a capacity crowd. Jelani Clark had 20 points and five assists and Robert Vaihola added 12 points and nine rebounds to lead Riordan, which improved to 11-2, 2-1. S.I. fell to 5-8, 0-3.
Thursday
Robby Beasley’s late basket gave Dougherty Valley a 67-66 victory on the road over San Ramon Valley in East Bay Athletic League play. Dougherty Valley is 13-2, 2-1 heading into its game Saturday at Monte Vista. SRV is 11-4, 1-1 as it goes into a Saturday game at De La Salle. … Dublin continues to play explosively on offense and tenaciously on defense as it walloped Livermore 89-25 two days after it crushed Amador Valley 71-26. The Gaels are 12-2, 2-0 going into their Saturday game at home against Foothill.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--San Francisco 49ers halftime show: Rappers delight fans at Levi’s

San Francisco 49ers fans were feeling ready to dance going into the team ’ s long-awaited first-ever playoff game at Levi ’ s Stadium in Santa Clara .
And organizers sure provided a fun soundtrack for them to do just that as three iconic hip-hop acts performed during the halftime show .
With the home team leading 14-10 , the mighty Young MC took the stage first and rocked right into his sole top 10 hit “ Bust a Move.
” The 49er Faithful certainly didn ’ t have to be told twice , as the fans began busting moves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ since the smash song originally came out in 1989 .
Some of the best dance moves came courtesy of Sourdough Sam , the 49ers mascot who joined the 52-year-old rapper the makeshift stage erected at one end of the 50 yard line , and the Gold Rush Cheerleaders who danced in front the stage .
After “ Bust a Move , ” at tune which won the 1990 Grammy for best rap performance and remained in the Top 40 for 20 weeks , Young MC left the stage and Tone Loc took his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong on the microphone , Tone Loc didn ’ t fair nearly as well , struggling through abbreviated versions of his two big hits — “ Wild Thing ” and “ Funk Cold Medina.
” It was a wise move — especially in this # MeToo era — for him to perform a very abbreviated version of “ Medina ” given that the song ’ s content revolves around slipping some kind of a “ love potion ” into the drinks of unsuspecting females .
Last up was the Sugarhill gang , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show and convincingly transported us back to 1979 for a great version of the “ Rapper ’ s Delight , ” which became the first rap single to hit the Top 40 on Billboard .

San Francisco 49ers fans were feeling ready to dance going into the team’s long-awaited first-ever playoff game at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
And organizers sure provided a fun soundtrack for them to do just that as three iconic hip-hop acts performed during the halftime show.
With the home team leading 14-10, the mighty Young MC took the stage first and rocked right into his sole top 10 hit “Bust a Move.” The 49er Faithful certainly didn’t have to be told twice, as the fans began busting moves that probably haven’t been seen since the smash song originally came out in 1989.
Some of the best dance moves came courtesy of Sourdough Sam, the 49ers mascot who joined the 52-year-old rapper the makeshift stage erected at one end of the 50 yard line, and the Gold Rush Cheerleaders who danced in front the stage.
After “Bust a Move, “a tune which won the 1990 Grammy for best rap performance and spent 20 weeks in the Top 40, Young MC left the stage and Tone Loc took his spot.
While Young MC sounded fairly strong on the microphone, Tone Loc didn’t fair nearly as well, struggling through abbreviated versions of his two big hits — “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina.” It was a wise move in this #MeToo era for him to perform a very abbreviated version of “Medina” given that the song’s content revolves around slipping some kind of a “love potion” into the drinks of unsuspecting females.
Last up was the Sugarhill Gang, who delivered the absolute highlight of the halftime show and convincingly transported us back to 1979 for a great version of the “Rapper’s Delight,” which became the first rap single to hit the Top 40 on Billboard.
San Francisco isn't in the same league as Los Angeles when it comes to cities with the most cool songs written about them. But there are definitely some great SF-centric tunes. Here are my top 10: https://t.co/NA9bLQrA90 — Jim Harrington (@jimthecritic) January 8, 2020


mercurynews--2020-01-11--Photos: 49ers playoff halftime show a hip-hop throwback

The halftime show at the San Francisco 49ers ’ playoff game took fans back in time musically to decade when @ @ @ @ @ Tone Loc , Young MC and the Sugarhill Gang — performers who topped the charts @ @ @ @ @ 1980s — entertained the crowd .
The acts are best known as hip-hop pioneers with @ @ @ @ @ Thing , ” “ Bust a Move ” and “ Rapper ’ s Delight.
” @ @ @ @ @ a packed audience with the 49ers mascot , Sourdough Sam , getting into the act @ @ @ @ @ shows some of the highlights of halftime act during the 49ers vs. Vikings ’ divisional @ @ @ @ @

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the gallery on your mobile device.
The halftime show at the San Francisco 49ers’ playoff game took fans back in time musically to decade when the team was dominant.
Tone Loc, Young MC and the Sugarhill Gang — performers who topped the charts in the late 1970s and 1980s — entertained the crowd. The acts are best known as hip-hop pioneers with hits such as “Wild Thing,” “Bust a Move” and “Rapper’s Delight.” They performed their hits to a packed audience with the 49ers mascot, Sourdough Sam, getting into the act.
The photo gallery above shows some of the highlights of halftime act during the 49ers vs. Vikings’ divisional round game on Saturday.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--Watch: 49ers’ Jimmy Garoppolo throws bad interception against Vikings in NFC playoffs

One of the only knocks on 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo this year are the occasional “ oops ” throw that seemingly comes out of nowhere .
In the opening half of Garoppolo ’ s first career playoff start Saturday , he made at least three ill-advised throws .
Fortunately for he and the 49ers , none were very costly as San Francisco grabbed a comfortable 24-10 lead over the Vikings in the NFC Divisional Round playoff at Levi ’ s Stadium .
Garoppolo , though , was picked off by Vikings All-Pro linebacker Eric Kendricks while targeting Deebo Samuel over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the 49ers ’ 33-yard line .
Replays show Garoppolo didn ’ t seem to notice Kendricks was right where he was throwing the ball .
The 49ers defense , though , bailed out Jimmy G by holding the Vikings to a 39-yard yard Dan Bailey field goal .
The interception marked Garoppolo ’ s 19th turnover this season , more than any other player still participating in the postseason .
Not that Garoppolo has ever let a mistake here or there affect him too much .
In drives following an interception this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He ’ s been 36-of-39 for 429 yards an two touchdowns and no interceptions .
His passer rating in those post-interception drives is a whopping 128.5 .
On Saturday , Garoppolo didn ’ t get a chance to improve those numbers as he took a knee to run out the clock in the first half .
Garoppolo , who was 8-of-13 for 105 yards and a 3-yard touchdown pass to Kendrick Bourne for the game ’ s first score in the opening half , barely avoided a couple of other interceptions .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for but couldn ’ t hold onto .
Later in the half , Garoppolo threw a wobbling pass while getting hit and was bailed out by Bourne ’ s diving catch for a first down .

One of the only knocks on 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo this year are the occasional “oops” throw that seemingly comes out of nowhere. In the opening half of Garoppolo’s first career playoff start Saturday, he made at least three ill-advised throws.
Fortunately for he and the 49ers, none were very costly as San Francisco grabbed a comfortable lead and held on for a 27-10 victory over the Vikings in the NFC Divisional Round playoff at Levi’s Stadium.
Garoppolo’s sloppiness, though, caused at least some momentary concern. He was picked off by Vikings All-Pro linebacker Eric Kendricks while targeting Deebo Samuel over the middle late in the first half at the 49ers’ 33-yard line. Replays show Garoppolo didn’t seem to notice Kendricks was right where he was throwing the ball. The 49ers defense, though, bailed out Jimmy G by holding the Vikings to a 39-yard yard Dan Bailey field goal.
#49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo went 4-of-4 with a TD passing between the numbers on the 49ers opening touchdown drive. He is 0-of-4 with an interception on such passes since. — Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) January 11, 2020
The interception marked Garoppolo’s 19th turnover this season, more than any other player still participating in the postseason. Not that Garoppolo has ever let a mistake here or there affect him too much.
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49ers: Shanahan sees bright side of Trey Lance’s performance vs. Raiders San Francisco 49ers | Kurtenbach: What’d I miss? A summer’s worth of takes on the Warriors, Giants, Niners, and Pac-12 In drives following an interception this year, Garoppolo has been downright spectacular. He’s been 36-of-39 for 429 yards an two touchdowns and no interceptions. His passer rating in those post-interception drives is a whopping 128.5.
On Saturday, Garoppolo didn’t get a chance to improve those numbers as he took a knee to run out the clock in the first half.
Garoppolo, who was 8-of-13 for 105 yards and a 3-yard touchdown pass to Kendrick Bourne for the game’s first score in the opening half, barely avoided a couple of other interceptions. He had one earlier throw Kendricks reached for but couldn’t hold onto. Later in the half, Garoppolo threw a wobbling pass while getting hit and was bailed out by Bourne’s diving catch for a first down.
Garoppolo’s final statistics were pretty ordinary as he finished 11-of-19 for just 131 yards and a 74.7 passer rating. In the end, Garoppolo did what he set out to do — engineer the offense well enough to advance to the NFC Championship next Sunday.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--San Jose: Supporters launch campaign for new tax meant for affordable housing

SAN JOSE — Supporters of a proposed new tax that could raise tens of millions of dollars to fund affordable housing projects in San Jose launched their campaign Saturday morning outside the kind of development they want to become a lot more common .
For Raymond Ramsey , his apartment in the 134-unit Second Street Studios is his foundation .
Instead of spending all of his time in “ survival mode , ” worrying about where he might sleep or how to protect his belongings , Ramsey , who cycled in and out of homelessness for 10 years before moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said he can focus on advocating for the thousands of people who are still living on the streets in San Jose .
“ We are living proof that the homeless population is neither helpless nor hopeless , and that permanent supportive housing is the key , ” Ramsey told a crowd of city officials , affordable housing advocates and other formerly homeless people at the campaign kickoff rally in front of the building he calls home .
“ We want more affordable housing like this , ” he said .
The strategy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say will make that a reality is a new tax on real estate sales worth $ 2 million or more , which will appear on the ballot as Measure E in the March primary .
“ Too many of our neighbors are being pushed out of our city , and too many of our brothers and sisters are being pushed out into the street , ” Liccardo said .
“ We are going to bring them all in.
” But opponents of the measure , and even some of its supporters , have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tax would generate might not wind up funding the affordable housing causes its backers are championing in their campaign .
That ’ s because the tax revenue would flow into the city ’ s general fund — a distinction that allows the tax to pass with a simple majority , rather than a larger share of votes .
But that means supporters can not legally require that the money fund affordable housing projects or any other specific cause .
“ It ’ s a general fund tax , and other city councils could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in any given year that it is there , ” Councilman Johnny Khamis said .
Opponents also charge that the tax risks making the city ’ s housing crisis even worse , because it will increase the cost of acquiring and developing new properties .
“ Developers will have to make up the cost of this tax somehow , ” Khamis said .
Measure E would add a new tax of $ 3.75 per $ 500 of a property ’ s transfer value for properties worth $ 2 million to $ 5 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 per $ 500 for properties worth $ 5 million to $ 10 million , and $ 7.50 per $ 500 for properties worth more than $ 10 million .
The tax would be in addition to the transfer tax San Jose already charges , at a rate of $ 3.30 per $ 1,000 of property value .
City officials estimate the tax would generate tens of millions of dollars annually — from at least $ 22 million during a recession , to as much as $ 73 million in boom years .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ San Jose in 2019 , according to the city ’ s annual count of its homeless population , a 43 percent increase from 2017 .
Meanwhile , San Jose has struggled to finance affordable housing developments since California shut down its redevelopment agencies in 2011 .
The new tax would be the first substantial local source of funding for affordable housing since then .
Supporters have laid out a plan for spending the money , devoting chunks of the funding to build housing that is affordable for low- and very-low-income residents — including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Street Studios — as well as homelessness prevention and rental assistance efforts .
Those plans are not binding , though .
Ramsey said he shares the concern that money from the tax could get diverted to other causes .
“ The promises have been pinkie promises , ” he said .
But the solution to that problem , Ramsey said , is to closely track how the tax revenue is used — not to shoot it down entirely .
“ Let ’ s get the measure passed first , ” he said .

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SAN JOSE — Supporters of a proposed new tax that could raise tens of millions of dollars to fund affordable housing projects in San Jose launched their campaign Saturday morning outside the kind of development they want to become a lot more common.
For Raymond Ramsey, his apartment in the 134-unit Second Street Studios is his foundation. Instead of spending all of his time in “survival mode,” worrying about where he might sleep or how to protect his belongings, Ramsey, who cycled in and out of homelessness for 10 years before moving into the affordable housing development last May, said he can focus on advocating for the thousands of people who are still living on the streets in San Jose.
“We are living proof that the homeless population is neither helpless nor hopeless, and that permanent supportive housing is the key,” Ramsey told a crowd of city officials, affordable housing advocates and other formerly homeless people at the campaign kickoff rally in front of the building he calls home.
“We want more affordable housing like this,” he said.
The strategy that Mayor Sam Liccardo and other supporters say will make that a reality is a new tax on real estate sales worth $2 million or more, which will appear on the ballot as Measure E in the March primary.
“Too many of our neighbors are being pushed out of our city, and too many of our brothers and sisters are being pushed out into the street,” Liccardo said. “We are going to bring them all in.”
But opponents of the measure, and even some of its supporters, have raised the concern that the money the tax would generate might not wind up funding the affordable housing causes its backers are championing in their campaign.
That’s because the tax revenue would flow into the city’s general fund — a distinction that allows the tax to pass with a simple majority, rather than a larger share of votes. But that means supporters cannot legally require that the money fund affordable housing projects or any other specific cause.
“It’s a general fund tax, and other city councils could decide what to do with this money in any given year that it is there,” Councilman Johnny Khamis said.
Opponents also charge that the tax risks making the city’s housing crisis even worse, because it will increase the cost of acquiring and developing new properties.
“Developers will have to make up the cost of this tax somehow,” Khamis said.
Measure E would add a new tax of $3.75 per $500 of a property’s transfer value for properties worth $2 million to $5 million. That rate would rise to $4 per $500 for properties worth $5 million to $10 million, and $7.50 per $500 for properties worth more than $10 million. The tax would be in addition to the transfer tax San Jose already charges, at a rate of $3.30 per $1,000 of property value.
City officials estimate the tax would generate tens of millions of dollars annually — from at least $22 million during a recession, to as much as $73 million in boom years.
More than 6,000 people were homeless in San Jose in 2019, according to the city’s annual count of its homeless population, a 43 percent increase from 2017.
Meanwhile, San Jose has struggled to finance affordable housing developments since California shut down its redevelopment agencies in 2011. The new tax would be the first substantial local source of funding for affordable housing since then.
Supporters have laid out a plan for spending the money, devoting chunks of the funding to build housing that is affordable for low- and very-low-income residents — including permanent supportive rental housing developments like Second Street Studios — as well as homelessness prevention and rental assistance efforts.
Those plans are not binding, though.
Ramsey said he shares the concern that money from the tax could get diverted to other causes.
“The promises have been pinkie promises,” he said. But the solution to that problem, Ramsey said, is to closely track how the tax revenue is used — not to shoot it down entirely.
“Let’s get the measure passed first,” he said.
Mercury News staff writer Maggie Angst contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--Magnitude 5.9 temblor rocks quake-stunned Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN , Puerto Rico — A magnitude 5.9 quake shook Puerto Rico on Saturday , causing millions of dollars of damage along the island ’ s southern coast , where previous recent quakes have toppled homes and schools .
The U.S. Geological Survey said the 8:54 a.m. ( 1254 GMT ) quake hit 8 miles southeast of Guanica at a shallow depth of 3 miles .
It was followed by several aftershocks , including a magnitude 5.2 temblor less than two minutes later .
No injuries or deaths were reported , officials said .
Saturday ’ s quake occurred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the same area and amid a spate of more than 1,100 mostly small quakes over the past 15 days .
Gov .
Wanda Vazquez estimated damage from Tuesday ’ s earthquake at $ 110 million , with a total of 559 structures affected .
She said her administration was immediately releasing $ 2 million to six of the most affected municipalities .
As a result of Saturday ’ s quake , Puerto Rico ’ s Electric Power Authority said outages were reported across much of southern Puerto Rico and crews were assessing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they also were going back to reassess all structures previously inspected , given the strength of Saturday ’ s quake .
Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Ocasio in the southern coastal city of Ponce told The Associated Press that officials closed the city ’ s downtown area and two other nearby areas because of weakened infrastructure .
“ One building completely collapsed , ” she said .
“ There is a lot of historic infrastructure in Ponce.
” Bárbara Cruz , a prosecutor who was in Ponce when the new quake hit , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued to crumble .
“ Everyone is out on the street , ” she said .
More landslides and damaged homes were reported , along with severe cracks on a bridge in the southwest coastal town of Guanica .
The quake , which initially had been calculated at magnitude 6.0 , was the strongest shake since Tuesday ’ s magnitude 6.4 quake — the most potent to hit the island in a century .
That temblor killed one person , injured nine others and damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes and several schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ southwest region .
More than 4,000 people have been staying in shelters , many fearful of returning to their homes , and others unable to because of extensive damage .
The director of Puerto Rico ’ s Electric Power Authority , ordered the temporary closure of the company ’ s largest plant , which crews had been inspecting for damage caused by earlier quakes .
The ground in southwest Puerto Rico has been shaking since Dec. 28 , with more than 1,100 earthquakes , of which more than 100 were felt and more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greater .
NASA reported Friday that the quakes had moved the land in parts of southern Puerto Rico as much as 5.5 inches , based on satellite images before and after the temblors .
Víctor Huérfano , director of Puerto Rico ’ s Seismic Network , told the AP that he expects still more aftershocks as a result of the latest large one .
• About two-thirds of Puerto Rico remains without power “ It ’ s going to re-energize an unstable situation , ” he said , adding that seismologists are studying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s a complex zone .
”

By Danica Coto | Associated Press
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — A magnitude 5.9 quake shook Puerto Rico on Saturday, causing millions of dollars of damage along the island’s southern coast, where previous recent quakes have toppled homes and schools.
The U.S. Geological Survey said the 8:54 a.m. (1254 GMT) quake hit 8 miles southeast of Guanica at a shallow depth of 3 miles. It was followed by several aftershocks, including a magnitude 5.2 temblor less than two minutes later.
No injuries or deaths were reported, officials said.
Saturday’s quake occurred four days after a 6.4 magnitude quake in the same area and amid a spate of more than 1,100 mostly small quakes over the past 15 days.
Gov. Wanda Vazquez estimated damage from Tuesday’s earthquake at $110 million, with a total of 559 structures affected. She said her administration was immediately releasing $2 million to six of the most affected municipalities.
[vemba-video id=”us/2020/01/11/puerto-rico-earthquake-nr-vpx.cnn”]
As a result of Saturday’s quake, Puerto Rico’s Electric Power Authority said outages were reported across much of southern Puerto Rico and crews were assessing possible damage at power plants. Officials said they also were going back to reassess all structures previously inspected, given the strength of Saturday’s quake.
Deputy Mayor Elizabeth Ocasio in the southern coastal city of Ponce told The Associated Press that officials closed the city’s downtown area and two other nearby areas because of weakened infrastructure.
“One building completely collapsed,” she said. “There is a lot of historic infrastructure in Ponce.”
Bárbara Cruz, a prosecutor who was in Ponce when the new quake hit, said concrete debris hit the sidewalk as buildings continued to crumble.
“Everyone is out on the street,” she said.
More landslides and damaged homes were reported, along with severe cracks on a bridge in the southwest coastal town of Guanica.
The quake, which initially had been calculated at magnitude 6.0, was the strongest shake since Tuesday’s magnitude 6.4 quake — the most potent to hit the island in a century. That temblor killed one person, injured nine others and damaged or destroyed hundreds of homes and several schools and businesses in the island’s southwest region.
More than 4,000 people have been staying in shelters, many fearful of returning to their homes, and others unable to because of extensive damage.
The director of Puerto Rico’s Electric Power Authority, ordered the temporary closure of the company’s largest plant, which crews had been inspecting for damage caused by earlier quakes.
The ground in southwest Puerto Rico has been shaking since Dec. 28, with more than 1,100 earthquakes, of which more than 100 were felt and more than 66 were of magnitude 3.5 or greater.
NASA reported Friday that the quakes had moved the land in parts of southern Puerto Rico as much as 5.5 inches, based on satellite images before and after the temblors.
Víctor Huérfano, director of Puerto Rico’s Seismic Network, told the AP that he expects still more aftershocks as a result of the latest large one.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--49ers vs. Vikings, halftime report: Studs and duds

SANTA CLARA — Here is how the 49ers ’ playoff opener is unfolding as the 49ers lead 14-10 at halftime against the Minnesota Vikings at Levi ’ s Stadium : QB Jimmy Garoppolo : His first career playoff start began with a touchdown drive , going 5-of-6 for 57 yards , the lone incompletion slipping off George Kittle ’ s outstretched hands .
Kendrick Bourne ’ s 3-yard touchdown catch over the middle came with cornerback Xavier Rhodes trailing in coverage and Garoppolo dropping the ball over safety Anthony Harris .
Receptions by Deebo Samuel ( 10 yards ) and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) sparked the drive .
Garoppolo ( 8-of-13 , 105 yards , 1 TD , 1 interception ) came up limping a bit on his rebuilt left leg ( see : 2018 ACL repair ) after completing a 16-yard prayer to Kendrick Bourne that put the 49ers in Vikings territory on the 49ers ’ second possession .
The knee and ankle look OK , however .
Even more impressive : a pseudo-pancake block he threw on Deebo Samuel ’ s 6-yard reverse to the Vikings ’ 35 in the second quarter .
Less @ @ @ @ @ @ @ halftime when linebacker Eric Kendricks dropped into coverage and picked him off , setting up the Vikings at the 49ers ’ 29-yard line .
WR Kendrick Bourne : His first two catches were beauties : a 3-yard touchdown catch on the 49ers ’ opening possession and a 16-yard reception on a third-down , desperation throw from Garoppolo , who got sacked on the next snap by Danielle Hunter after a timeout .
DE Dee Ford : His return from essentially a six-game hiatus paid off just before halftime , when he dropped Kirk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Vikings to settle for a field goal .
Ford and Nick Bosa lined up next to each other on the right side in a twist .
RB Tevin Coleman : He scored the 49ers ’ second touchdown on a 1-yard run behind the left side and Kyle Juszczyk ’ s lead block .
Samuel ’ s 18-yard completion set up that score , as did Coleman runs on the three previous snaps for 5 , 7 and 4 yards .
DL Arik Armstead : His first-down sack early in the second quarter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and prompted a three-and-out .
The pending free agent had a team-high 10 sacks through the regular season .
WR Deebo Samuel : The 49ers dual-threat rookie keyed the second touchdown drive with receptions of 14 yards ( on third-and-12 ) and 18 yards ( to the 1-yard line ) , with a 6-yard reverse in between that featured a potential fumble overruled upon replay .
CB Emmanuel Moseley : Summoned to replace Ahkello Witherspoon after two series , Moseley came through with third-down stops on back-to-back series that forced Vikings ’ punts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a three-and-out , allowing only a 3-yard run to Dalvin Cook on the opening snap before DeForest Buckner stuffed him for no gain on second down .
After a third-down incompletion ( with Ford rushing from the edge ) , the Vikings punted .
Overall , it was a mostly impressive first half , as Cook gained just 11 yards ( six carries ) and Cousins totaled only 81 passing yards despite completing 10-of-12 attempts .
Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon : Benched late in the regular-season finale at Seattle , Witherspoon stayed in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on him to answer the 49ers ’ first touchdown with one of their own .
He first got tagged for a pass-interference penalty , then came a 12-yard catch by Adam Thielen on third-and-2 , then a 41-yard TD catch by Stefon Diggs — also on third-and-2 .
Emmanuel Moseley replaced him on the next series and made a third-down stop .
Then , on the sideline , Witherspoon sat on a cooler away from the defensive backs on a bench and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh went over to give what looked like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mike McGlinchey : He allowed Danielle Hunter to make the first sack Garoppolo , and McGlinchey committed a false-start penalty one snap later .

SANTA CLARA — Jimmy Garoppolo, Joe Staley and Mike McGlinchey drove over to Levi’s Stadium early for the 49ers’ playoff opener Saturday, anxious to resume their Super Bowl quest.
“It’s the earliest I’ve ever been here,” Staley said.
Why a 9 a.m. arrival for a 1:35 p.m. kickoff? Probably because this 49ers team might offer the best shot in Staley’s 13-year career to win a Super Bowl, and the franchise’s first in 25 years.
Once the top-seeded 49ers reserved a spot in the NFC Championship Game by virtue of Saturday’s 27-10 divisional-round win over the No. 6 Minnesota Vikings, platitudes rightfully were bestowed upon their suffocating defense, a 47-carry rushing attack and the “masterpiece” game plan crafted by coach Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh.
Next up is next Sunday’s bid at a Super Bowl XLIV berth. Levi’s Stadium will host that NFC Championship Game between the 49ers (14-3) and Sunday’s winner between the No. 5-seed Seattle Seahawks and No. 3 Green Bay Packers.
“Can’t wait to watch these games tomorrow and find out who we’re playing,” said coach Kyle Shanahan, who indeed should be interested in the AFC playoffs considering his team’s Lombardi Trophy potential.
Told that next Sunday’s kickoff is set for 3:40 p.m., Staley replied: “That’ll be good, then I can sleep in a little bit.” That wasn’t the case before this game. Staley went to bed at 10:30 p.m., awoke at 1 a.m. for 30 minutes, awoke again at 3, then fell back asleep until 6.
“As I get older, I can’t sleep very well. I’ve been noticing that the whole entire season,” Staley said. “I just get anxious for games now.”
That passion to play in high-stakes games drove four 49ers back from injury to start against the Vikings — defensive end Dee Ford, linebacker Kwon Alexander, safety Jaquiski Tartt and right guard Mike Person.
“That’s what we look like when we’re healthy,” cornerback Richard Sherman said of a full-squad defense.
With Dalvin Cook limited to 18 rushing yards, the Vikings didn’t fare much better in the air with Kirk Cousins, who was intercepted by Sherman and got sacked six times, including twice by rookie Nick Bosa.
The sold-out crowd of 71,649 went silent and 49ers defenders took a knee while trainers tended to Bosa after he got hurt on a third-down sack with 12:50 remaining in the game. Not even a minute later, Bosa bounced up smiling and cheered on the crowd as he ran to the sideline rather than the medical tent.
“Just got the wind knocked out of him,” coach Kyle Shanahan said. “I thought he sat and milked his injury for a little bit to hear the crowd chant his name. Nah, he’s been a stud on and off the field.”
Bosa called the moment, in which the stadium shifted abruptly from nerves to relief, “A lot of fun…really cool.”
The 49ers now return to the NFC Championship Game where they made annual visits in the 2011-13 seasons, winning only in 2012 en route to a Super Bowl defeat. They are 6-9 all-time in NFC finals.
STUDS:
Defensive front four: The 49ers finally got their top four linemen back together and each produced a sack (in order: Arik Armstead, Ford, Nick Bosa, DeForest Buckner). Ford’s return from essentially a six-game hiatus was highlighted by a third-down sack. “I have been nursing injuries all year so it’s a good feeling to persevere and help my team get to the next week,” Ford said.
Bosa came out strong after halftime with a solid tackle then a pass breakup (then an illegal hit against right tackle Brian O’Neill on a Richard Sherman interception return). Then came Bosa’s pair of fourth-quarter sacks.
Armstead’s first-down sack early in the second quarter pinned the Vikings near the goal line. Buckner, who had a tackle-for-loss on the first series, joined the sack parade midway through the fourth quarter. Solomon Thomas also had a fourth-quarter sack.
RB Tevin Coleman: He emerged from the shadows with a season-high 22 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns, after producing just one score the previous nine games. His second score, a 2-yard run, came after a physical, 11-yard run courtesy of blocks by Mike Person and George Kittle. Coleman scored the 49ers’ second touchdown on a 1-yard run behind the left side and Kyle Juszczyk’s lead block.
“It just feels amazing being on this team, having this opportunity, and we’ve just got to keep it going,” said Coleman, who went to the Super Bowl with the 2016 Atlanta Falcons and Shanahan, their coordinator.
If Coleman’s elbow injury isn’t serious, he could be the 49ers’ marquee rusher heading into the NFC Championship Game. Then again, Raheem Mostert’s calf injury was described as cramps. Matt Breida’s late fumble may not bode well for his workload.
QB Jimmy Garoppolo: He won his first career playoff start via a red-hot start, an oopsy-daisy interception and an effective finishing effort. He had season-low totals in completing 11-of-19 passes for 131 yards, including just 3-of-6 for 26 yards after halftime.
It all began with a touchdown drive, going 5-of-6 for 57 yards, with the lone incompletion slipping off George Kittle’s outstretched hands. Kendrick Bourne’s 3-yard touchdown catch over the middle came with cornerback Xavier Rhodes trailing in coverage and Garoppolo dropping the ball over safety Anthony Harris.
Garoppolo came up limping a bit on his rebuilt left leg after completing a 16-yard prayer to Bourne on the second possession, but all looked OK with his knee and ankle afterward. Even more impressive: a pseudo-pancake block he threw on Deebo Samuel’s 6-yard reverse to the Vikings’ 35 in the second quarter. “He came to me, he was like ‘I got my first pancake.’ I was like ‘Sure you did’,” Kittle laughed. “But he did. I was pretty impressed.”
“It felt good. Sometimes you’ve got to remember you’re a football player, not just a quarterback,” Garoppolo said.
Less impressive: Garoppolo got intercepted 2:41 before halftime by linebacker Eric Kendricks dropped into coverage and picked him off, setting up the Vikings at the 49ers’ 29-yard line. “I just left it a little short,” Garoppolo said. “He made a good play on it.”
CB Richard Sherman: With the 49ers leading 17-10, Sherman made his third career postseason interception (the other two were in 2014). He picked off a Kirk Cousins pass intended for Adam Thielen in the third quarter. The 49ers’ converted that turnover into Coleman’s second touchdown and a 24-10 lead. “I knew what the route was and I beat him to the spot,” Sherman said. “Kirk threw a very catchable ball.”
RB Raheem Mostert: His carries weren’t what made him such a stud but rather his special-teams roots. Using his blazing speed as a gunner, Mostert recovered a muffed punt at the Vikings’ 10-yard line late in the third quarter. That turnover killed the Vikings’ comeback hopes. Mostert sustained a calf injury that is now the 49ers’ top injury concern.
WR Kendrick Bourne: His three catches were beauties: a 3-yard touchdown catch on the 49ers’ opening possession, then a 16-yard reception on a third-down, desperation throw from Garoppolo, and, for No. 3, a 21-yard grab on third-and-5 out of halftime.
WR Deebo Samuel: The 49ers dual-threat rookie keyed the second touchdown drive with receptions of 14 yards (on third-and-12) and 18 yards (to the 1-yard line), and with a 6-yard reverse in between that featured a potential fumble overruled upon replay.
CB Emmanuel Moseley: Summoned to replace Ahkello Witherspoon after two series, Moseley came through with third-down stops on back-to-back series that forced Vikings’ punts. “We gave Ahkello the start but he knew if he was struggling at all, we wouldn’t hesitate. … I love how Moseley came in and played.”
Moseley nearly allowed a Stefon Diggs’ catch at the 3 with 2 1/2 minutes left but Diggs couldn’t hold onto it, especially after Jimmie Ward’s hit. Ward’s tackle on the Vikings’ final play resulted in a victory kneeldown.
Overall defense: The 49ers defense set its tone by forcing a three-and-out to open the game. Through three quarters, the Vikings had just 90 yards, including 15 rushing yards, and four first downs; the 49ers ahd 264 yards (143 rushing) and 20 first downs.
Kicker Robbie Gould: He’s never missed a kick through eight career postseason games, and this outing saw him convert field-goal attempts from 35 and 21 yards.
DUDS
CB Ahkello Witherspoon: Benched late in the regular-season finale at Seattle, Witherspoon got pulled earlier this game, after just two series. He was sent back in for the final two minutes after they pulled Sherman. Witherspoon earlier got tagged for a pass-interference penalty, then came a 12-yard catch by Adam Thielen on third-and-2, then a 41-yard TD catch by Stefon Diggs — also on third-and-2. Once pulled, Witherspoon sat on a cooler away from the defensive backs on a bench and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh went over to give what looked like a pep talk. “I’m sure if we left him in, he would have had a chance to play himself out of it,” Shanahan said.
RT Mike McGlinchey: The second-year right tackle allowed Danielle Hunter to make the first sack Garoppolo, and McGlinchey committed a false-start penalty one snap later. McGlinchey rallied, however, and helped key the 186-yard ground assault.
RB Matt Breida: Ball security issues resurfaced with 1:39 remaining, as he got stripped of the ball after a fourth-and-1 conversion at midfield. He also lost a fumble in last month’s home loss to Atlanta.
Vikings RB Dalvin Cook: He had just 18 yards on nine carries as the Vikings had to turn to a passing attack in their comeback attempt.
Vikings QB Kirk Cousins: He finished 21-of-29 for 172 yards with one touchdown and one interception, and 95 of those yards came in the final 4 1/2 minutes.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--Southern California crash kills 1 person, injures 3 juveniles

One person died and three juveniles were hospitalized Saturday morning , Jan. 11 , in a traffic crash in Temecula @ @ @ @ @ 9:10 a.m. at De Portola Road and Calle Arboles , Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department @ @ @ @ @ involved rolled over and caught fire .
One person was ejected from the vehicle , @ @ @ @ @ , a Riverside County Sheriff ’ s Department spokesman .
The juveniles had what Cal @ @ @ @ @ moderate injuries .
Their ages were not immediately available .
The roads in the area @ @ @ @ @ investigation .

One person died and three juveniles were hospitalized Saturday morning, Jan. 11, in a traffic crash in Temecula.
The crash happened about 9:10 a.m. at De Portola Road and Calle Arboles, Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department said. The only vehicle involved rolled over and caught fire. One person was ejected from the vehicle, said Sgt. Albert Martinez, a Riverside County Sheriff’s Department spokesman.
The juveniles had what Cal Fire described as minor to moderate injuries. Their ages were not immediately available.
The roads in the area were shut down for the investigation.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--On emotional return, Joe Pavelski to get Patrick Marleau-type tribute by Sharks

SAN JOSE — Perhaps it ’ s somewhat fitting that Patrick Marleau will reach another milestone and play in his 1,700th NHL game on the same night that Joe Pavelski makes his initial return to SAP Center on Saturday as a member of the Dallas Stars .
After all , Marleau was in Pavelski ’ s position a little more than two years ago when he returned to San Jose as an opposing player for the first time after a long career with the Sharks .
After he signed a three-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs on July 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his first 19 NHL seasons with the Sharks , first returned to San Jose in October of that year .
Pavelski spent his first 13 NHL seasons with the Sharks before he signed with the Stars on July 1 of last year .
Marleau still remembers the extended ovation he received from the fans and the special pregame introduction the Sharks gave him on his return to the Tank .
“ It was incredible .
The fans were incredible , ” Marleau said .
“ I ’ ll never forget that for sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It was pretty weird all game , but you try and do your best to get through it and just play.
” Like our Sharks Facebook page for more San Jose Sharks news , commentary and conversation .
Pavelski will get the same extended pregame recognition Saturday night , and said he ’ ll likely feel the same emotions .
“ That ’ s one of the most exciting parts about ( Saturday ) , is just getting out there in front of the fans , ” Pavelski said .
“ It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ skating out of the Shark head .
You loved scoring goals in the playoffs .
Every year , those are some of the best games you can play in as a player.
” Pavelski talked with Marleau about what it might be like to leave the Sharks organization before he signed with the Stars .
Without the contract offer he was looking for from the Sharks , Pavelski began to talk with other teams a week before free agency began before signing with Dallas .
“ He was someone that told me it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ little bit longer that you think to get adjusted , ” Pavelski said of Marleau .
“ But it didn ’ t make it easier for me , one way or the other , any advice .
It was just the way it happened at the end of the year .
“ You think it ’ s gong to be easy , but this is a place where you know tendencies of teammates and the comfort levels .
I think we ’ re starting to get that in Dallas as well.
” For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Pavelski said the hockey part of the transition has been easy .
The more challenging part at first for he and his wife , Sarah , and their young son , Nate , has been getting used to a different part of the country .
“ It was just a change , ” Pavelski said .
“ There ’ s still moments where Nate would want to be here .
But he ’ s found some awesome friends and I ’ m pretty excited for him .
It ’ s been fun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his hockey team there and he ’ s in a good school .
We ’ re really adjusting well .
It takes time.
” Marleau , of course , was in the same position with his wife , Christina , and their four young sons not too long ago .
“ Especially when you ’ ve been in one spot for a long time , it makes it that much harder , ” Marleau said .
“ Just visually out there , when you see certain guys that you played with for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different.
” Saturday will mark Marleau ’ s 831st consecutive game , an ironman streak that dates back to April 2009 .
In 42 games with the Sharks this season , Marleau , who signed Oct. 9 , has 15 points and is averaging 15 minutes and 30 seconds of ice time per game .
He ’ s played in a top nine forward role throughout his return , even spending time on the Sharks ’ top line .
• Sharks ’ Tomas Hertl on NHL All-Star nod : “ I will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returns to San Jose : Listing the ways his absence has affected the Sharks • Watch : Former Sharks captain Joe Pavelski talks before his return to SAP Center “ The way he skates , he can still play those 15 , 16 minutes a night , and he ’ s been playing against top lines a lot lately , ” interm coach Bob Boughner said .
“ It ’ s amazing that you can play that long .
As a former player , I thought I had a long career and how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I couldn ’ t imagine after 1,700 he ’ s still going , ”

SAN JOSE — Perhaps it’s somewhat fitting that Patrick Marleau will reach another milestone and play in his 1,700th NHL game on the same night that Joe Pavelski makes his initial return to SAP Center on Saturday as a member of the Dallas Stars.
After all, Marleau was in Pavelski’s position a little more than two years ago when he returned to San Jose as an opposing player for the first time after a long career with the Sharks.
After he signed a three-year contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs on July 2, 2017, Marleau, who played his first 19 NHL seasons with the Sharks, first returned to San Jose in October of that year. Pavelski spent his first 13 NHL seasons with the Sharks before he signed with the Stars on July 1 of last year.
Marleau still remembers the extended ovation he received from the fans and the special pregame introduction the Sharks gave him on his return to the Tank.
“It was incredible. The fans were incredible,” Marleau said. “I’ll never forget that for sure. It was a great moment.
“It was pretty weird all game, but you try and do your best to get through it and just play.”
Like our Sharks Facebook page for more San Jose Sharks news, commentary and conversation.
Pavelski will get the same extended pregame recognition Saturday night, and said he’ll likely feel the same emotions.
“That’s one of the most exciting parts about (Saturday), is just getting out there in front of the fans,” Pavelski said. “It was an awesome run. Always loved skating out of the Shark head. You loved scoring goals in the playoffs. Every year, those are some of the best games you can play in as a player.”
Pavelski talked with Marleau about what it might be like to leave the Sharks organization before he signed with the Stars. Without the contract offer he was looking for from the Sharks, Pavelski began to talk with other teams a week before free agency began before signing with Dallas.
“He was someone that told me it’s going to take you a little bit longer that you think to get adjusted,” Pavelski said of Marleau. “But it didn’t make it easier for me, one way or the other, any advice. It was just the way it happened at the end of the year.
“You think it’s gong to be easy, but this is a place where you know tendencies of teammates and the comfort levels. I think we’re starting to get that in Dallas as well.”
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Pavelski said the hockey part of the transition has been easy. The more challenging part at first for he and his wife, Sarah, and their young son, Nate, has been getting used to a different part of the country.
“It was just a change,” Pavelski said. “There’s still moments where Nate would want to be here. But he’s found some awesome friends and I’m pretty excited for him. It’s been fun to watch him grow. He loves his hockey team there and he’s in a good school. We’re really adjusting well. It takes time.”
Marleau, of course, was in the same position with his wife, Christina, and their four young sons not too long ago.
“Especially when you’ve been in one spot for a long time, it makes it that much harder,” Marleau said. “Just visually out there, when you see certain guys that you played with for a long time, it’s really different.”
Saturday will mark Marleau’s 831st consecutive game, an ironman streak that dates back to April 2009.
In 42 games with the Sharks this season, Marleau, who signed Oct. 9, has 15 points and is averaging 15 minutes and 30 seconds of ice time per game. He’s played in a top nine forward role throughout his return, even spending time on the Sharks’ top line.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--49ers’ Beathard lauds team’s support in wake of brother’s tragic death

Take a breath .
Forget , for the moment , that the 49ers are about to play their first postseason game in six years , and their first in Levi ’ s Stadium .
But before all that , set the game aside for a bit and focus on a slice of humanity that should humble us all .
C.J .
Beathard , a 49ers reserve quarterback , visited NBC Sports Bay Area ’ s Matt Maiocco this week at a time he should be enjoying what could very well be a once-in-a-lifetime experience .
Beathard ’ s world came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brother Clayton , 22 , was stabbed to death in Nashville .
“ Being on the practice field kind of takes my mind off it a little bit , ” Beathard told Maiocco .
“ But I ’ ll be sitting there sometimes , and I think of my brother .
I ’ ll hear something , and it ’ ll be like , ‘ Dang , this is Clay ’ s song .
He loved this song.
’ That kind of stuff is real tough and it ’ s a daily battle.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of a team .
By any measure the 49ers have created a caring culture which is just as fascinating and authentic as the brand of football they have played this season .
“ When I got back here last week , ” Beathard said , “ it was unreal , the support , and just how real they were .
Kyle ( Shanahan ) and John ( Lynch ) put so much on creating the culture and getting the right people in here .
And when you get the right people , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s really how it ’ s worked around here .
You see that not only through a season in the NFL , but you see it when tragedies happen like this , just how awesome they are.
” Do yourself a favor .
Read Maiocco ’ s powerful story .
When you look back at this day , it might be what you remember most .

Take a breath. Forget, for the moment, that the 49ers are about to play their first postseason game in six years, and their first in Levi’s Stadium.
A rollicking good time is almost guaranteed.
But before all that, set the game aside for a bit and focus on a slice of humanity that should humble us all.
C.J. Beathard, a 49ers reserve quarterback, visited NBC Sports Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco this week at a time he should be enjoying what could very well be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Beathard’s world came tumbling down on Dec. 21 when his brother Clayton, 22, was stabbed to death in Nashville.
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Beathard has taken solace in being part of a team. By any measure the 49ers have created a caring culture which is just as fascinating and authentic as the brand of football they have played this season.
“When I got back here last week,” Beathard said, “it was unreal, the support, and just how real they were. Kyle (Shanahan) and John (Lynch) put so much on creating the culture and getting the right people in here. And when you get the right people, culture takes care of itself. That’s really how it’s worked around here. You see that not only through a season in the NFL, but you see it when tragedies happen like this, just how awesome they are.”
Do yourself a favor. Read Maiocco’s powerful story. When you look back at this day, it might be what you remember most.


mercurynews--2020-01-11--Sharks’ Tomas Hertl on NHL All-Star nod: “I will be enjoying every moment”

SAN JOSE — Tomas Hertl is still dealing with the lower body issue that caused him to miss four games in late November , so he might have been able to use the extra days off over the NHL ’ s All-Star weekend .
Still , Hertl said , it ’ ll be an honor for him to play in the event for the first time when the game is held in St. Louis later this month .
Hertl was chosen Friday to represent the Sharks after Logan Couture , who was initially selected for the game , suffered a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a game against the St. Louis Blues .
Hertl , in his seventh NHL season , enters Saturday ’ s game with the Dallas Stars with 15 goals and 34 points , as he has taken over the No .
1 center role with Couture expected to miss roughly six weeks .
“ It ’ s still a big honor for me .
I ’ m really happy about it , ” Hertl said .
“ I ’ m kind of sad for ( Couture ) because he deserved it .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last couple years when he was always great ( in ) playoff runs , an underrated player in the NHL .
So I was excited for him “ It ’ s tough but now that they picked me , I ’ m really happy about it .
It ’ s a big honor for my first appearance.
” Hertl , 26 , was initially injured in the Sharks ’ Nov. 19 game against the Edmonton Oilers and had to miss the next four games .
For complete Sharks coverage follow us on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it easy with Hertl when he first returned to the lineup Nov. 29 for a game with the Los Angeles Kings .
In that game and in the Sharks ’ Dec. 3 game with the Washington Capitals , Hertl sat for large parts of the third period with the score out of hand on both dates .
In the last 17 games before Saturday , though , Hertl averaged just over 19 minutes of ice time per game and had 11 points , tied for second most on the Sharks with Timo Meier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He hasn ’ t been 100 percent healthy , ” Sharks interim coach Bob Boughner said of Hertl , “ and he ’ s still a go-to guy almost every night in a lot of situations .
Penalty kill , faceoffs , power play , now he ’ s shutting down other team ’ s top lines .
That ’ s his job .
“ He ’ s got one of the most important roles on our team and to get rewarded for that , I think all of the guys are very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Like our Sharks Facebook page for more San Jose Sharks news , commentary and conversation .
After the Sharks ’ three-game road trip that concludes Jan. 18 in Vancouver , the Sharks are off as a team from Jan. 19-25 , so Hertl will get a chance to rest .
“ I feel every day better .
I don ’ t know , maybe take all season , ” Hertl said .
“ It ’ s tough when you ’ re in skates every day .
But before All Star Week , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so I can have a good rest for that.
” All-Star weekend starts Jan. 24 with the skills competition and concludes the following day with the 3-on-3 tournament .
Hertl is part of Pacific Division team that includes Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers .
• On emotional return , Joe Pavelski to get Patrick Marleau-type tribute by Sharks • Joe Pavelski returns to San Jose : Listing the ways his absence has affected the Sharks • Watch : Former Sharks captain Joe Pavelski talks before his return to SAP Center “ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hertl said .
“ I don ’ t know what to expect .
I will be looking for other guys , what they do .
I don ’ t want to be the guy trying too much or doing nothing .
It ’ s not like a ‘ game ’ game , so it ’ s not like I can get hurt more .
”

SAN JOSE — Tomas Hertl is still dealing with the lower body issue that caused him to miss four games in late November, so he might have been able to use the extra days off over the NHL’s All-Star weekend.
Still, Hertl said, it’ll be an honor for him to play in the event for the first time when the game is held in St. Louis later this month. Hertl was chosen Friday to represent the Sharks after Logan Couture, who was initially selected for the game, suffered a broken bone is left ankle Jan. 7 in a game against the St. Louis Blues.
Hertl, in his seventh NHL season, enters Saturday’s game with the Dallas Stars with 15 goals and 34 points, as he has taken over the No. 1 center role with Couture expected to miss roughly six weeks.
“It’s still a big honor for me. I’m really happy about it,” Hertl said. “I’m kind of sad for (Couture) because he deserved it. I think he was skipped (over) the last couple years when he was always great (in) playoff runs, an underrated player in the NHL. So I was excited for him
“It’s tough but now that they picked me, I’m really happy about it. It’s a big honor for my first appearance.”
Hertl, 26, was initially injured in the Sharks’ Nov. 19 game against the Edmonton Oilers and had to miss the next four games.
For complete Sharks coverage
follow us on Flipboard.
The Sharks tried to take it easy with Hertl when he first returned to the lineup Nov. 29 for a game with the Los Angeles Kings. In that game and in the Sharks’ Dec. 3 game with the Washington Capitals, Hertl sat for large parts of the third period with the score out of hand on both dates.
In the last 17 games before Saturday, though, Hertl averaged just over 19 minutes of ice time per game and had 11 points, tied for second most on the Sharks with Timo Meier and one behind Erik Karlsson.
“He hasn’t been 100 percent healthy,” Sharks interim coach Bob Boughner said of Hertl, “and he’s still a go-to guy almost every night in a lot of situations. Penalty kill, faceoffs, power play, now he’s shutting down other team’s top lines. That’s his job.
“He’s got one of the most important roles on our team and to get rewarded for that, I think all of the guys are very happy for him and proud of him.”
Like our Sharks Facebook page for more San Jose Sharks news, commentary and conversation.
After the Sharks’ three-game road trip that concludes Jan. 18 in Vancouver, the Sharks are off as a team from Jan. 19-25, so Hertl will get a chance to rest.
“I feel every day better. I don’t know, maybe take all season,” Hertl said. “It’s tough when you’re in skates every day. But before All Star Week, I still have five days off, so I can have a good rest for that.”
All-Star weekend starts Jan. 24 with the skills competition and concludes the following day with the 3-on-3 tournament. Hertl is part of Pacific Division team that includes Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers.


mercurynews--2020-01-12--49ers report card: How historically dominant was path to NFC title game?

SANTA CLARA — Here is how the No .
1-seed 49ers ( 14-3 ) graded in Saturday night ’ s 27-10 divisional-playoff win over the No .
6-seed Minnesota Vikings at Levi ’ s Stadium : Jim Garoppolo ( playoffs call for grown-up name ) only threw six passes after his second-quarter interception because , well , the 49ers did not need him to pass this game .
Sadly , the national media will fake debate the next week if he ’ s capable of passing the 49ers to victory ( see : way too much regular-season evidence that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pass more when the Vikings ’ best threat is their edge rushers ?
Kendrick Bourne ( touchdown , third-down conversions ) had the best playoff debut of all offensive players .
Deebo Samuel , still a beast .
George Kittle , season-low 16 yards and that reflects the beauty of this team to win in other ways but their offensive catalyst .
Whoa , 47 carries ?
!
That is a franchise record for a playoff game .
The 49ers ’ first playoff game since the 2013 NFC Championship Game brought with it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ran … hard , especially at the end and in the red zone .
Coleman had a season-high 22 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns , after just one TD in his previous nine games .
With 58 timely yards , Raheem Mostert ( more on him below ) averaged 4.8 yards per carry like Coleman , neither of whom broke a run longer than 11 yards .
Matt Breida had just 17 carries on eight yards , and most concerning is his late-game fumble , three games after fumbling twice against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was Dee Ford ’ s return , the 49ers defensive front was SO FUN to watch , similar to the first two months of the season .
Nick Bosa had two sacks while one apiece came from Ford , Arik Armstead ( his was first ) , DeForest Buckner and Solomon Thomas — all first-round draft picks .
Emmanuel Moseley relieved Ahkello Witherspoon and look for that to continue into the NFC Championship Game .
Safeties Jaquiski Tartt and Jimmie Ward were overshadowed heroes — as they should be , with full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you all though Dalvin Cook would rush for more than 18 yards , perhaps on more than one carry .
Instead , it was his total on nine carries .
The defensive front throttled him , but the linebackers ’ speed was ridiculously superb , including the return of Kwon Alexander , who helped make “ completely different energy , ” Bosa said .
Moseley ’ s back-to-back third-down stops were also impressive .
Fred Warner had a team-high seven tackles , and Sheldon Day made an early impact .
You all knew @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a second punt that it would be Mostert who scooped it up for a win-clinching recovery .
Robbie Gould went 2-for-2 on field-goal attempts ( 35 and 21 yards ) .
Mitch Wishnowsky ’ s playoff initiation went well ( 41.5-yard net average , 2 of 4 inside the 20 ) .
This unit is the most improved compared to September-October .
After any win , players will get praised and coaches occasionally commended .
After this crucial win as the No .
1 seed ( sorry , Baltimore Ravens ) , Kyle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many players in the locker room .
Even if they worked on a play dozens of times in practice , they perfected it and inserted it at the right time , players said .
Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could have been unemployed a year ago at this time , yet he truly deserves consideration as the next Cleveland Browns ’ coach ( if he wants that , yikes ) .

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SANTA CLARA — Here is how the No. 1-seed 49ers (14-3) graded in Saturday night’s 27-10 divisional-playoff win over the No. 6-seed Minnesota Vikings at Levi’s Stadium:
PASS OFFENSE: B
Jimmy Garoppolo only threw six passes after his second-quarter interception because, well, the 49ers did not need him to pass any further. Sadly, the national media will fake debate the next week if he’s capable of passing the 49ers to victory (see: way too much regular-season evidence that he can). Why tempt fate and pass more when the Vikings’ best threat is their edge rushers? Kendrick Bourne (touchdown, third-down conversions) had the best playoff debut of all offensive players. Deebo Samuel, still a beast. George Kittle had a season-low 16 yards and that reflects the beauty of this team to win in other ways than force throws to their offensive catalyst.
KURTENBACH: This was vintage early-season 49ers defense
RUN OFFENSE: A+
Whoa, 47 carries?! That is a franchise record for a playoff game. The 49ers’ first playoff game since the 2013 NFC Championship Game brought with it a surprise 100-yard rusher: Tevin Coleman. He ran hard, especially at the end and in the red zone. Coleman had a season-high 22 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns, after just one TD in his previous nine games. With 58 timely yards, Raheem Mostert (more on him below) averaged 4.8 yards per carry like Coleman, neither of whom broke a run longer than 11 yards. Matt Breida had just 17 carries on eight yards, and most concerning is his late-game fumble, three games after fumbling twice against Atlanta.
PASS DEFENSE: A+
Whoa, whether or not it was Dee Ford’s return, the 49ers defensive front was SO FUN to watch, similar to the first two months of the season. The Vikings’ 147 yards (126 passing) are the fewest allowed in 49ers postseason history (51 games) and the fewest in the NFL playoffs in five seasons. Nick Bosa had two sacks while one apiece came from Ford, Arik Armstead (his was first), DeForest Buckner and Solomon Thomas — all first-round draft picks. Emmanuel Moseley relieved Ahkello Witherspoon and look for that to continue into the NFC Championship Game. Safeties Jaquiski Tartt and Jimmie Ward were overshadowed heroes — as they should be, with full respect toward them.
McDONALD: Making sense of Jimmy G’s playoff beginning
RUN DEFENSE: A++
No 49ers defense has ever allowed fewer rushing yards in a playoff game than this one (21 yards). We all thought Dalvin Cook would rush for more than 18 yards, perhaps on more than one carry. Instead, it was his total on nine carries. The defensive front throttled him, but the linebackers’ speed was ridiculously superb, including the return of Kwon Alexander, who helped make “completely different energy,” Bosa said. Moseley’s back-to-back third-down stops were also impressive. Fred Warner had a team-high seven tackles, and Sheldon Day made an early impact.
SPECIAL TEAMS: A
Once the Vikings’ punt returner muffed a second punt, of course it would be Mostert who scooped it up for a win-clinching recovery. Robbie Gould went 2-for-2 on field-goal attempts (35 and 21 yards). Mitch Wishnowsky’s playoff initiation went well (41.5-yard net average, 2 of 4 inside the 20). This unit is the most improved compared to September-October.
COACHING: A+
After any win, players will get praised and coaches occasionally commended. After this crucial win as the No. 1 seed (sorry, Baltimore Ravens), Kyle Shanahan and his staff were celebrated by many players in the locker room. Even if they worked on a play dozens of times in practice, they perfected it and inserted it at the right time, players said. Defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could have been unemployed a year ago at this time, yet he truly deserves consideration as the next Cleveland Browns’ coach (if he wants that, yikes).


Bridge: Jan. 12, 2020

Once upon a time , most experts opened ( and average players were taught to open ) one club on hands with five spades and five clubs .
Partner was likely to respond in a red suit , and then a space-saving second bid of one spade would be available .
But theory has evolved .
To open one spade gets the major suit mentioned promptly and makes it harder for the opponents to come in .
Diehard one-club openers remain , but one spade is now popular .
Players can use judgment .
With strong clubs and weak spades @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a six-card suit and your spades as a four-carder .
Today ’ s South tried that approach but landed at the third-best game .
( North reasonably assumed that South had SIX clubs and five spades . )
North-South could have made 3NT or four spades with ease , but the actual five clubs was taxing .
West led a trump , and declarer won , took the A-K of spades and ruffed a spade in dummy .
East overruffed and led his last trump , and South lost a spade to West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not sure how the auction might have developed if South had opened one spade , but he could have made five clubs .
On the third spade , South can pitch a diamond from dummy instead of ruffing .
West leads a second trump , and South wins and leads a fourth spade .
Dummy throws another diamond .
If West then leads a diamond , South takes the ace and ruffs his last diamond in dummy .
He takes the ace of hearts , ruffs a heart , and wins the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spade .

Once upon a time, most experts opened (and average players were taught to open) one club on hands with five spades and five clubs. Partner was likely to respond in a red suit, and then a space-saving second bid of one spade would be available.
But theory has evolved. To open one spade gets the major suit mentioned promptly and makes it harder for the opponents to come in. Diehard one-club openers remain, but one spade is now popular.
Players can use judgment. With strong clubs and weak spades, you might treat your clubs as a six-card suit and your spades as a four-carder. Today’s South tried that approach but landed at the third-best game. (North reasonably assumed that South had SIX clubs and five spades.)
North-South could have made 3NT or four spades with ease, but the actual five clubs was taxing. West led a trump, and declarer won, took the A-K of spades and ruffed a spade in dummy. East overruffed and led his last trump, and South lost a spade to West plus a diamond.
I’m not sure how the auction might have developed if South had opened one spade, but he could have made five clubs. On the third spade, South can pitch a diamond from dummy instead of ruffing.
West leads a second trump, and South wins and leads a fourth spade. Dummy throws another diamond. If West then leads a diamond, South takes the ace and ruffs his last diamond in dummy. He takes the ace of hearts, ruffs a heart, and wins the last three tricks with trumps and a good spade.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S A 6
H A 5 4 3 2
D 5 4 2
C 7 6 5
WEST
S Q J 10 5
H K 10 6
D K J 9 6
C 4 3
EAST
S 3 2
H Q J 9 7
D Q 10 8 3
C 9 8 2
SOUTH
S K 9 8 7 4
H 8
D A 7
C A K Q J 10
South West North East
1 C Pass 1 H Pass
2 S Pass 3 C Pass
3 S Pass 5 C All Pass
Opening lead — C 3
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-01-12--Horoscopes Jan. 12, 2020: Zayn Malik, consider who and what is valuable to you.

Happy Birthday : Don ’ t rule out what ’ s happened or who you have associated with in the past .
Consider who and what is valuable to you as you move forward .
Use your memory and intuition to help you outmaneuver anyone or anything that could pose a problem or slow you down .
Initiate and welcome change , and it will be easier to control the outcome .
Your numbers are 6 , 14 , 23 , 28 , 31 , 35 , 47 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Don ’ t lose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a will , there is a way to make your dreams and desires come true .
Set new priorities and see what transpires .
Physical movement will set you free mentally , emotionally and spiritually .
Romance is encouraged .
5 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : A change of mind , surroundings or people will set you on an exciting journey .
Look for opportunities that won ’ t leave you depending on others .
It ’ s time to run the show instead of letting someone dictate what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( May 21-June 20 ) : Muster up some energy to put to good use .
Focus on home , family and romance .
How you treat the ones you love will make a difference to what you discover about who you are and what you want out of life .
4 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Stay put , and use your imagination to take you on an exciting journey .
Spend time with the people who bring out the best in you and who offer the most encouragement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your goals .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Embrace the people and the projects that make you feel alive .
Ramp up the activities you participate in to rejuvenate your mind , body and soul .
Don ’ t waste time trying to alter others when you should be concentrating on personal growth .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Take part in events that offer different points of view and open your mind and your eyes to what ’ s available to you .
Discuss @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to join you in your pursuit of happiness .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Stop letting others dictate what you can do .
Take it upon yourself to follow your heart and to generate the lifestyle that suits you .
Nothing happens without time , effort and desire .
Do your best , and see what happens .
4 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Venture out into the world , and try something you ’ ve never done .
Personal growth comes from changing your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and pastimes have to offer .
Eliminate what isn ’ t working for you ; alter your life , and see what happens .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Channel your energy wisely .
Pick and choose the people and the projects you decide to pursue .
Keep an open mind but a closed mouth when faced with gossip , meddling or personal matters .
Protect your money , possessions and reputation .
5 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : A fun-filled day will bring you closer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone in your plans , and it will encourage better relationships with the people you want on your team .
A little romance will improve your personal life .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Swallow your pride , keep your thoughts to yourself and be observant of others .
Refuse to let a change that someone makes affect your plans .
Personal improvements will be gratifying , and romance will bring you closer to someone you love .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : Reach out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to in some time .
Catching up will do you a world of good and spark enthusiasm to do something you ’ ve always wanted to do .
Remember the past , and incorporate what you miss into the future .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are enthusiastic , insightful and entertaining .
You are aggressive and ambitious .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Zayn Malik, 27; Naya Rivera, 33; Oliver Platt, 60; Kirstie Alley, 69.
Happy Birthday: Don’t rule out what’s happened or who you have associated with in the past. Consider who and what is valuable to you as you move forward. Use your memory and intuition to help you outmaneuver anyone or anything that could pose a problem or slow you down. Initiate and welcome change, and it will be easier to control the outcome. Your numbers are 6, 14, 23, 28, 31, 35, 47.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Don’t lose sight of your passion. Where there is a will, there is a way to make your dreams and desires come true. Set new priorities and see what transpires. Physical movement will set you free mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Romance is encouraged. 5 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A change of mind, surroundings or people will set you on an exciting journey. Look for opportunities that won’t leave you depending on others. It’s time to run the show instead of letting someone dictate what you can do. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Muster up some energy to put to good use. Focus on home, family and romance. How you treat the ones you love will make a difference to what you discover about who you are and what you want out of life. 4 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Stay put, and use your imagination to take you on an exciting journey. Spend time with the people who bring out the best in you and who offer the most encouragement to follow your dreams and to pursue your goals. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Embrace the people and the projects that make you feel alive. Ramp up the activities you participate in to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Don’t waste time trying to alter others when you should be concentrating on personal growth. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Take part in events that offer different points of view and open your mind and your eyes to what’s available to you. Discuss your thoughts and intentions with someone you want to join you in your pursuit of happiness. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Stop letting others dictate what you can do. Take it upon yourself to follow your heart and to generate the lifestyle that suits you. Nothing happens without time, effort and desire. Do your best, and see what happens. 4 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Venture out into the world, and try something you’ve never done. Personal growth comes from changing your routine and experiencing what people, places and pastimes have to offer. Eliminate what isn’t working for you; alter your life, and see what happens. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Channel your energy wisely. Pick and choose the people and the projects you decide to pursue. Keep an open mind but a closed mouth when faced with gossip, meddling or personal matters. Protect your money, possessions and reputation. 5 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A fun-filled day will bring you closer to the people who count. Include everyone in your plans, and it will encourage better relationships with the people you want on your team. A little romance will improve your personal life. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Swallow your pride, keep your thoughts to yourself and be observant of others. Refuse to let a change that someone makes affect your plans. Personal improvements will be gratifying, and romance will bring you closer to someone you love. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in some time. Catching up will do you a world of good and spark enthusiasm to do something you’ve always wanted to do. Remember the past, and incorporate what you miss into the future. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are enthusiastic, insightful and entertaining. You are aggressive and ambitious.
-Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Word Game: Jan. 12, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — EXTRADITE ( EXTRADITE : EK-struh-dite : To give up a fugitive to another jurisdiction .
@ @ @ @ @ or more words in EXTRADITE ?
To purchase the Word Game book , visit WordGameBooks.com @ @ @ @ @ just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
Words must be of four or @ @ @ @ @ Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “ s , ” such as @ @ @ @ @ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
Additional words made by adding a @ @ @ @ @ “ s ” may not be used .
For example , if “ bake ” @ @ @ @ @ ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , but “ bake ” and “ @ @ @ @ @ 4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or vulgar or sexually explicit words are @ @ @

TODAY’S WORD — EXTRADITE (EXTRADITE: EK-struh-dite: To give up a fugitive to another jurisdiction.)
Average mark 47 words
Time limit 60 minutes
Can you find 68 or more words in EXTRADITE?
TODAY’S WORD — EXTRADITE eared eater edit eider exed exert exit extra
tare tart taxed taxer taxi tear teat teed tetra tetrad text tide tied tier tiered
tirade tire titer trade trait tread treat tree triad tried trite raid rate ratite ratted
read reed retie ride rite aerie aide aired arete arid attire axed dare dart date
dater dear deer deet deter dexter diet dieter dire dirt drat idea ideate irate
iterate
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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.