mercurynews--2020-06-05--Drew Brees finds support from up high: President Donald Trump

President Donald Trump criticized New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees for apologizing over comments he made in opposition to National Football League players kneeling during the national anthem .
“ He ’ s truly one of the greatest quarterbacks , but he should not have taken back his original stance on honoring our magnificent American Flag , ” Trump tweeted on Friday .
“ OLD GLORY is to be revered , cherished , and flown high … ” Brees had stood by his opposition to kneeling in an interview on Wednesday , saying he couldn ’ t agree with anybody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said they took to their knees during the anthem to draw attention to police brutality and racial injustice , an issue that ’ s taken on renewed significance since last week ’ s killing of George Floyd , a black man , in police custody in Minneapolis .
But the backlash to anthem-kneeling protests was cited as fueling demonstrations in New Orleans on Wednesday .
Protesters there chanted opposition to Brees ’ comments .
Amid the widespread criticism , he apologized .
“ In an attempt to talk about respect , unity , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the national anthem , I made comments that were insensitive and completely missed the mark on the issues we are facing right now as a country , ” Brees said on Instagram .
“ They lacked awareness and any type of compassion or empathy.
” Beginning in the first year of his presidency , Trump has repeatedly lashed out at NFL players who knelt or raised fists during the playing of “ The Star-Spangled Banner.
” In 2018 , he called for players who took part to be suspended without pay .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ trend in protest of what he said was systemic mistreatment of blacks by law enforcement .
After he became a free agent , Kaepernick filed suit against the league , accusing it of colluding to prevent him from securing a contract .
A confidential settlement in the case was reached early last year .

President Donald Trump criticized New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees for apologizing over comments he made in opposition to National Football League players kneeling during the national anthem.
“He’s truly one of the greatest quarterbacks, but he should not have taken back his original stance on honoring our magnificent American Flag,” Trump tweeted on Friday. “OLD GLORY is to be revered, cherished, and flown high … ”
Brees had stood by his opposition to kneeling in an interview on Wednesday, saying he couldn’t agree with anybody disrespecting the flag. Many athletes have said they took to their knees during the anthem to draw attention to police brutality and racial injustice, an issue that’s taken on renewed significance since last week’s killing of George Floyd, a black man, in police custody in Minneapolis.
But the backlash to anthem-kneeling protests was cited as fueling demonstrations in New Orleans on Wednesday. Protesters there chanted opposition to Brees’ comments.
Amid the widespread criticism, he apologized.
“In an attempt to talk about respect, unity, and solidarity centered around the American flag and the national anthem, I made comments that were insensitive and completely missed the mark on the issues we are facing right now as a country,” Brees said on Instagram. “They lacked awareness and any type of compassion or empathy.”
Beginning in the first year of his presidency, Trump has repeatedly lashed out at NFL players who knelt or raised fists during the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” In 2018, he called for players who took part to be suspended without pay.
Former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick started the trend in protest of what he said was systemic mistreatment of blacks by law enforcement. After he became a free agent, Kaepernick filed suit against the league, accusing it of colluding to prevent him from securing a contract.
A confidential settlement in the case was reached early last year.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Bridge: June 6, 2020

Bridge: June 6, 2020

Four defensive tricks will defeat a major-suit game , but defenders have so much to think about that they often forget first principles .
Today ’ s North might have doubled West ’ s three diamonds ; North-South would be plus 500 .
But North preferred to support South ’ s spades , and they landed at game .
West led the king of diamonds : eight , deuce , three .
He cashed the ace and then shifted to a heart , hoping East had the king .
South won , forced out West ’ s ace of trumps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trumps and claimed .
West prevails if he counts possible defensive tricks .
He knows East ’ s deuce of diamonds is a singleton — with a doubleton , East would signal high — so West can give East a second-round ruff .
Since West ’ s ace of trumps is a fast re-entry , he can get a club ruff himself — if he leads a club at Trick Two .
South wins and leads a trump .
West wins , leads his lowest diamond ( a suit-preference signal ) for East @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for down one .
You hold : S A 7 H 10 5 4 D A K J 9 6 5 4 C 8 .
Your partner opens 1NT ( 15 to 17 points ) .
The next player passes .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : You have options .
One is to blast into six diamonds , giving the opening leader no help .
( At matchpoint duplicate , you might risk 6NT to play at the highest-scoring strain . )
An alternative is to start slowly by showing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ however your bidding system allows ) .
You may have a grand slam .

Four defensive tricks will defeat a major-suit game, but defenders have so much to think about that they often forget first principles.
Today’s North might have doubled West’s three diamonds; North-South would be plus 500. But North preferred to support South’s spades, and they landed at game.
West led the king of diamonds: eight, deuce, three. He cashed the ace and then shifted to a heart, hoping East had the king. South won, forced out West’s ace of trumps, won the next heart, drew trumps and claimed.
SINGLETON
West prevails if he counts possible defensive tricks. He knows East’s deuce of diamonds is a singleton — with a doubleton, East would signal high — so West can give East a second-round ruff. Since West’s ace of trumps is a fast re-entry, he can get a club ruff himself — if he leads a club at Trick Two.
South wins and leads a trump. West wins, leads his lowest diamond (a suit-preference signal) for East to ruff and ruffs the club return for down one.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S A 7 H 10 5 4 D A K J 9 6 5 4 C 8. Your partner opens 1NT (15 to 17 points). The next player passes. What do you say?
ANSWER: You have options. One is to blast into six diamonds, giving the opening leader no help. (At matchpoint duplicate, you might risk 6NT to play at the highest-scoring strain.) An alternative is to start slowly by showing a good hand with a diamond suit (however your bidding system allows). You may have a grand slam.
West dealer
E-W vulnerable
NORTH
S 6 4 2
H A 8
D Q 10 8
C A K J 10 7
WEST
S A 7
H 10 5 4
D A K J 9 6 5 4
C 8
EAST
S 10 8
H Q 9 7 6 3
D 2
C 9 6 5 3 2
SOUTH
S K Q J 9 5 3
H K J 2
D 7 3
C Q 4
West North East South
1 D 2 C Pass 2 S
3 D 3 S Pass 4 S
All Pass
Opening lead — D K
(C)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Word Game: June 6, 2020

Word Game: June 6, 2020

Can you find 47 or more words in CHASTISE ?
The list will be published Monday .
To purchase the @ @ @ @ @ WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
@ @ @ @ @ or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of @ @ @ @ @ as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
@ @ @ @ @ a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For @ @ @ @ @ ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , @ @ @ @ @ “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or @ @ @ @ @ are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — CHASTISE (CHASTISE: CHAS-tize: Punish; criticize severely.)
Average mark 34 words
Time limit 45 minutes
Can you find 47 or more words in CHASTISE? The list will be published Monday.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — PUNTERS pent pert pest prune punster punt pure purest
purse unrest upset user nest nurse tern true tune tuner turn erupt rent rest rune
runt ruse rust sent sept setup spent spun spur spurn spurt step stern strep stun
suer suet super sure
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Horoscopes June 6, 2020: Paul Giamatti, it’s OK to focus on yourself for a change.

Happy Birthday : It ’ s OK to focus on yourself for a change .
If there is something you want to accomplish , get the ball rolling .
Make your dreams a priority .
Set the record straight when dealing with people who take you for granted or try to manipulate you .
Your greatest gain will come from doing what makes you happy .
Your numbers are 5 , 11 , 20 , 26 , 34 , 41 , 47 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Communication will help alleviate misunderstandings .
Be direct , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t share secrets or passwords if someone is vague or prying .
Plan something special for someone you love .
Romance will enhance your personal life .
5 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : An opportunity will intrigue you .
Get the facts and look at logistics first .
Clear up a pending problem before you start something new .
You can be aggressive as long as you leave nothing to chance and have a clear passageway .
3 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 ) : If you do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take place .
Altering the way you live and how you handle your money will set you on a path that leads to freedom .
Discuss plans and intentions with someone you love .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Verify information before passing it along .
Emotions will flare up if you mislead someone .
Put more energy into creative endeavors that you enjoy , and invest more time in figuring out how you want to spend the rest of your life .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ ve been eyeing for a long time .
Scope the internet for the best price or markdowns that will help you make your purchase sooner than anticipated .
Physical improvements will fetch compliments and boost your ego .
Romance is on the rise .
5 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Be honest but sensitive about something you don ’ t like if you want to turn a negative into a positive .
Taking on too much will leave you exhausted and weaken your immune system .
Pace yourself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to others .
2 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Explore new possibilities .
By starting a new course or hobby , you will be able to incorporate what you learn into your routine .
Spend more time on fitness and improving the way you present yourself to the virtual world .
Romance is favored .
4 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Broaden your horizon , explore creative opportunities and express your feelings regarding the lifestyle you are living .
Compromise will help you get on the same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You don ’ t have to overspend to have a good time .
4 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Brace yourself ; you ’ ll encounter an emotional situation if you let someone put demands on you .
Keep your secrets , passwords and private life to yourself .
Make a personal improvement that helps build confidence .
Romance is in the stars .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Don ’ t let uncertainty set in when you should be making a decision and moving forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tactics to get a rise out of you or to pressure you into doing things you don ’ t want to do .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Set a personal goal , and make the necessary changes .
Follow your heart and trust in yourself , not someone eager to turn you into a follower .
Personal and domestic improvements will help you gain control .
Strive for peace and equality .
4 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : Think twice before you make a move @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the way , you will end up in an argument .
It ’ s up to you to stop others from using or manipulating you .
2 stars Birthday Baby : You are smart , fashionable and helpful .
You are flexible and expressive .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Aubrey Anderson-Emmons, 13; Natalie Morales, 48; Paul Giamatti, 53; Robert Englund, 73.
Happy Birthday: It’s OK to focus on yourself for a change. If there is something you want to accomplish, get the ball rolling. Make your dreams a priority. Set the record straight when dealing with people who take you for granted or try to manipulate you. Your greatest gain will come from doing what makes you happy. Your numbers are 5, 11, 20, 26, 34, 41, 47.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Communication will help alleviate misunderstandings. Be direct, and expect the same in return. Don’t share secrets or passwords if someone is vague or prying. Plan something special for someone you love. Romance will enhance your personal life. 5 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): An opportunity will intrigue you. Get the facts and look at logistics first. Clear up a pending problem before you start something new. You can be aggressive as long as you leave nothing to chance and have a clear passageway. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): If you do the legwork, a positive change will take place. Altering the way you live and how you handle your money will set you on a path that leads to freedom. Discuss plans and intentions with someone you love. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Verify information before passing it along. Emotions will flare up if you mislead someone. Put more energy into creative endeavors that you enjoy, and invest more time in figuring out how you want to spend the rest of your life. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Shop online for something you’ve been eyeing for a long time. Scope the internet for the best price or markdowns that will help you make your purchase sooner than anticipated. Physical improvements will fetch compliments and boost your ego. Romance is on the rise. 5 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Be honest but sensitive about something you don’t like if you want to turn a negative into a positive. Taking on too much will leave you exhausted and weaken your immune system. Pace yourself, and be realistic when offering help to others. 2 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Explore new possibilities. By starting a new course or hobby, you will be able to incorporate what you learn into your routine. Spend more time on fitness and improving the way you present yourself to the virtual world. Romance is favored. 4 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Broaden your horizon, explore creative opportunities and express your feelings regarding the lifestyle you are living. Compromise will help you get on the same page as someone close to you. You don’t have to overspend to have a good time. 4 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Brace yourself; you’ll encounter an emotional situation if you let someone put demands on you. Keep your secrets, passwords and private life to yourself. Make a personal improvement that helps build confidence. Romance is in the stars. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don’t let uncertainty set in when you should be making a decision and moving forward. Recognize when someone is using emotional tactics to get a rise out of you or to pressure you into doing things you don’t want to do. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Set a personal goal, and make the necessary changes. Follow your heart and trust in yourself, not someone eager to turn you into a follower. Personal and domestic improvements will help you gain control. Strive for peace and equality. 4 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Think twice before you make a move. If you let emotions get in the way, you will end up in an argument. It’s up to you to stop others from using or manipulating you. 2 stars
Birthday Baby: You are smart, fashionable and helpful. You are flexible and expressive.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Ask Amy: Her religious belief set off a huge conflict

DEAR AMY : My husband and I live in a different country than our families .
Our only source of communication with our mothers is through FaceTime/FB Messenger .
While I have a great relationship with my mom and call her almost daily , my husband ’ s relationship with his mom has always been rocky .
She likes lecturing him on how he should live his life , what to do , what job to get , etc .
She ’ s also a very religious woman , while we definitely are not .
My husband had a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he doesn ’ t attend church , and she was questioning whether it was my influence !
I ’ m an atheist , but if my husband wanted to go to church , that would be absolutely fine with me .
• Ask Amy : My boyfriend ’ s buddy was here before me , but I want him gone • Ask Amy : I have this dream every night .
What could it mean ?
• Ask Amy : I found out why my husband is always on the phone , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amy : My husband behaved badly , and now the neighbors snub me • Ask Amy : I found out about my parents ’ risky decision , and I ’ m floored My mother-in-law keeps pushing him about it .
She was incredibly angry when he told her that he doesn ’ t share her strong faith .
These arguments get him really depressed and discouraged .
He said that if it wasn ’ t for the fact that he ’ s the only child ( and his mom is divorced ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contacting her altogether .
While I wouldn ’ t want her to lose her son ( my mom is also divorced , so I feel for her ) , it pains me to see him going through all that uncalled-for pressure .
How can we keep the relationship with my mother-in-law , but also firmly tell her to stop dictating to us how to live our lives and what to believe in ?
DEAR ENOUGH : If being religious is a core value for your mother-in-law , she will quite naturally visit and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Because you two live overseas and are communicating via videoconferencing and telephone , some of her clutching and attempts to control will be amplified .
This might be because she is anxious and lonely , but I have also noticed that one aspect of long-distance communicating is that it can be challenging to come up with things to talk about .
You two should come up with topics to discuss with her ; keep a list on a notepad near your laptop .
Think of stories and recipes to share , and let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We ’ re looking at these two kinds of tile for the bathroom — which do you like best ?
” Your husband should ponder and practice some responses that might reassure his mother , without encouraging her toward discussions he does not want to have .
“ OK , Mom , I realize this is important to you .
I ’ ll let you know if anything changes for me .
Let ’ s talk about something else , OK ?
” He should also be brave enough to disappoint his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did a great job raising me , but from here on out , I ’ m in charge of my own life.
” I also think it ’ s OK to create a little distance , and to be honest about the reason .
DEAR AMY : I ’ ve been working from home for the past two months , but once things start opening up again , my job will require frequent business travel .
In the past , I was usually on the road for about two weeks each month .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ all that contact with large numbers of people — in airports , on planes , restaurants , etc .
I ’ m also not too keen on rental cars and hotel rooms .
I really like my job and my co-workers .
The work suits my skills and interests .
The pay and benefits are good .
I feel torn between keeping a good job that will increase my exposure to the coronavirus , and trying to find a new job in a sluggish economy with millions of other people looking for work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : This anxiety creates a legitimate and necessary series of conversations to have with your employers .
You should be confident that they will develop a strategy for work-related travel that will reduce your risk as much as possible , as well as reducing your need to travel so frequently .
Travel will be vastly transformed , much as it was after 9/11 .
We will all tiptoe out into the world , using the knowledge we have gained to protect ourselves , and others .
DEAR AMY : I thought your response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harsh .
Mom was trying to establish a good relationship with her gay son , and you needlessly shamed her .
DEAR UPSET : I responded that both “ Mom ” and her son seemed to be playing a game of sorts , endangering their already fragile relationship .
I hope my “ harsh ” response inspired her to react to him differently .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or Facebook .

DEAR AMY: My husband and I live in a different country than our families. Our only source of communication with our mothers is through FaceTime/FB Messenger.
While I have a great relationship with my mom and call her almost daily, my husband’s relationship with his mom has always been rocky.
She likes lecturing him on how he should live his life, what to do, what job to get, etc. She’s also a very religious woman, while we definitely are not.
My husband had a big argument with her about the fact that he doesn’t attend church, and she was questioning whether it was my influence!
I’m an atheist, but if my husband wanted to go to church, that would be absolutely fine with me.
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Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy My mother-in-law keeps pushing him about it. She was incredibly angry when he told her that he doesn’t share her strong faith. These arguments get him really depressed and discouraged.
He said that if it wasn’t for the fact that he’s the only child (and his mom is divorced), he would distance himself, or stop contacting her altogether.
While I wouldn’t want her to lose her son (my mom is also divorced, so I feel for her), it pains me to see him going through all that uncalled-for pressure.
How can we keep the relationship with my mother-in-law, but also firmly tell her to stop dictating to us how to live our lives and what to believe in?
Enough of Dictatorship
DEAR ENOUGH: If being religious is a core value for your mother-in-law, she will quite naturally visit and revisit this topic with her son.
Because you two live overseas and are communicating via videoconferencing and telephone, some of her clutching and attempts to control will be amplified. This might be because she is anxious and lonely, but I have also noticed that one aspect of long-distance communicating is that it can be challenging to come up with things to talk about.
You two should come up with topics to discuss with her; keep a list on a notepad near your laptop. Think of stories and recipes to share, and let her help you make little decisions: “We’re looking at these two kinds of tile for the bathroom — which do you like best?”
Your husband should ponder and practice some responses that might reassure his mother, without encouraging her toward discussions he does not want to have. “OK, Mom, I realize this is important to you. I’ll let you know if anything changes for me. Let’s talk about something else, OK?”
He should also be brave enough to disappoint his anxious mother: “Mom, you did a great job raising me, but from here on out, I’m in charge of my own life.”
I also think it’s OK to create a little distance, and to be honest about the reason.
DEAR AMY: I’ve been working from home for the past two months, but once things start opening up again, my job will require frequent business travel. In the past, I was usually on the road for about two weeks each month.
I am not looking forward to having all that contact with large numbers of people — in airports, on planes, restaurants, etc. I’m also not too keen on rental cars and hotel rooms.
I really like my job and my co-workers. The work suits my skills and interests. The pay and benefits are good. I feel torn between keeping a good job that will increase my exposure to the coronavirus, and trying to find a new job in a sluggish economy with millions of other people looking for work at the same time.
Concerned Business Traveler
DEAR CONCERNED: This anxiety creates a legitimate and necessary series of conversations to have with your employers. You should be confident that they will develop a strategy for work-related travel that will reduce your risk as much as possible, as well as reducing your need to travel so frequently.
Travel will be vastly transformed, much as it was after 9/11. We will all tiptoe out into the world, using the knowledge we have gained to protect ourselves, and others.
DEAR AMY: I thought your response to “Mom” was way too harsh. Mom was trying to establish a good relationship with her gay son, and you needlessly shamed her.
Upset Reader
DEAR UPSET: I responded that both “Mom” and her son seemed to be playing a game of sorts, endangering their already fragile relationship. I hope my “harsh” response inspired her to react to him differently.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Harriette Cole: All I know how to use is Word, and I’m afraid to tell my co-workers

DEAR HARRIETTE : I work in a youth-based industry even though I am not young .
I keep up my style , so I look fairly young , all things considered .
People always tell me I look young for my age .
But that all falls away whenever technology comes into play .
I know how to use Word , but that ’ s about the extent of it .
When my company introduces a new app or other tool to make life easier , I struggle to figure out how to install it , let alone use it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anybody how hard it is for me that I run the risk of being considered obsolete .
It has only gotten worse since we have been at home , because I don ’ t have a colleague nearby to ask a simple question .
What can I do ?
I need my job .
DEAR LUDDITE : Now is the time to call upon your youthful nature .
Go online during your off hours and get tutored on how to use whatever technology is in question .
Go to YouTube.com for starters .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which will walk you through how to use and master the technology that is baffling you .
You have to be proactive now .
The best part is that you can do it in private .
• Harriette Cole : I implied she might infect us all , and she got angry • Harriette Cole : I paid my nanny under the table , and now she can ’ t collect unemployment • Harriette Cole : Should I tell about my big sister ’ s Oxy stash ?
• Harriette Cole : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s the only one my mom allows me to see • Harriette Cole : I feel like hell , but I don ’ t want to stay home DEAR HARRIETTE : I have been very active in my church for years .
That ’ s why it has been extra-hard to stay away all these weeks recently .
But I get it .
Now that our city is opening up , our minister is eager to start services again that everyone can attend , but I haven ’ t heard anything about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has called me many times to ask me to come in and lead Sunday school for the children and basically get things moving again .
When I asked about safeguards because of the coronavirus , he shrugged it off .
He said , “ God will provide.
” When I look at the news , I see that many people who have gone to church across our country have gotten sick and died .
As much as I love my church , I don ’ t want to risk my life if my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seriously .
I don ’ t think that we can leave this up to God .
I also don ’ t want to be called out as a nonbeliever .
What should I do ?
DEAR BACK TO CHURCH : Do not succumb to peer pressure .
You are right .
Outbreaks from congregations gathering at spiritual centers are up .
It is not worth it to go and sit too close to parishioners , sing , cry , touch — it ’ s just too much right now .
This is especially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not taking this virus seriously .
I say this knowing that there are strong opinions against my position .
I go with the science .
It has been proven unequivocally that people who gather together too closely often get sick , especially at church .
So don ’ t give in .
Tell your pastor you will do anything he needs from the safety of your home .
If he rejects you , find a new house of worship — starting with those who have online services .
I know this is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s smarter than going to church and dying .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams .
You can send questions to askharriette @ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: I work in a youth-based industry even though I am not young. I keep up my style, so I look fairly young, all things considered. People always tell me I look young for my age.
But that all falls away whenever technology comes into play. I know how to use Word, but that’s about the extent of it. When my company introduces a new app or other tool to make life easier, I struggle to figure out how to install it, let alone use it.
I worry that if I tell anybody how hard it is for me that I run the risk of being considered obsolete. It has only gotten worse since we have been at home, because I don’t have a colleague nearby to ask a simple question. What can I do? I need my job.
Luddite
DEAR LUDDITE: Now is the time to call upon your youthful nature. Go online during your off hours and get tutored on how to use whatever technology is in question.
Go to YouTube.com for starters. There are video tutorials about virtually everything, which will walk you through how to use and master the technology that is baffling you. You have to be proactive now. The best part is that you can do it in private.
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Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend Advice | Harriette Cole: I’ve worked hard, and my poor siblings resent my success DEAR HARRIETTE: I have been very active in my church for years. That’s why it has been extra-hard to stay away all these weeks recently. But I get it.
Now that our city is opening up, our minister is eager to start services again that everyone can attend, but I haven’t heard anything about setting up social distancing measures. He has called me many times to ask me to come in and lead Sunday school for the children and basically get things moving again. When I asked about safeguards because of the coronavirus, he shrugged it off. He said, “God will provide.”
When I look at the news, I see that many people who have gone to church across our country have gotten sick and died. As much as I love my church, I don’t want to risk my life if my pastor isn’t taking the rules seriously. I don’t think that we can leave this up to God.
I also don’t want to be called out as a nonbeliever.
What should I do?
Back to Church
DEAR BACK TO CHURCH: Do not succumb to peer pressure. You are right. Outbreaks from congregations gathering at spiritual centers are up. It is not worth it to go and sit too close to parishioners, sing, cry, touch — it’s just too much right now. This is especially true in a house of worship that is not taking this virus seriously.
I say this knowing that there are strong opinions against my position. I go with the science. It has been proven unequivocally that people who gather together too closely often get sick, especially at church.
So don’t give in. Tell your pastor you will do anything he needs from the safety of your home. If he rejects you, find a new house of worship — starting with those who have online services. I know this is hard to swallow, but it’s smarter than going to church and dying.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Miss Manners: My friend almost certainly stole my credit card info

DEAR MISS MANNERS : A longtime friend stayed with me for two days , part of which time was spent alone in my home .
Shortly after he left , three fraudulent charges were flagged by my credit card company in the small country of his origin .
It is a huge coincidence .
I suspect my friend obtained my credit card information and forwarded it to contacts in that country .
The amounts were less than $ 100 each and were taken care of by the credit card company , but my suspicion remains .
How can I deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remains as trusting as before ?
GENTLE READER : Sorry , but which part was the huge coincidence ?
That your friend had contacts in his country and that he also knew how to reach them ?
• Miss Manners : I asked for her undivided attention , and she got testy • Miss Manners : I get weird looks when my boyfriend talks about his wife • Miss Manners : I ’ m an introvert , and I don ’ t think I should have to Zoom • Miss Manners : Where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behavior ?
Miss Manners hates to ruin a friendship , but she is hard-pressed to find a plausible explanation for this — or a reason that you would trust him in the future .
Still , you could try : “ I don ’ t know how this happened , but somehow there were charges from Liechtenstein on my card , and I ’ ve never been there .
Someone must have mistaken my credit information for yours .
Perhaps you can help me figure out what happened — and make recommendations for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you stay.
” DEAR MISS MANNERS : I am a college professor , and consider it important to treat all of my students with respect and proper etiquette .
Because I can not always correctly guess someone ’ s gender from their name or appearance , I ask students to write down their gender , along with other information such as nicknames and why they are taking the class , at the beginning of the semester so I can use the correct pronouns .
One student indicated “ gender-neutral ” and expressed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pronouns ( ze , zir , etc . )
, which I am happy to do .
But how do I greet the group of students at the beginning of class ?
Normally , I would say “ ladies and gentlemen , ” but I do not wish to exclude this student or to call undue attention to zir by adding a third option .
What would you recommend ?
DEAR MISS MANNERS : My husband ’ s ex-wife and I are very good friends .
We took our four “ shared ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other grandchildren , to a farm with many activities .
Since this was in my town ( we live 30 minutes from each other ) , I ran into several people I knew .
I introduced her as my good friend who happens to be my husband ’ s ex-wife .
Most people comment that this is great that we can get along so well .
Is there a better/different way I could have introduced her ?
GENTLE READER : Why bother , if that one is working ?
Miss Manners finds this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seems , most of your other friends .
If there is any confusion or disbelief , it is probably only surprise , admiration and perhaps a bit of wonder that you two get along so well .
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website , www.missmanners.com ; to her email , dearmissmanners @ gmail.com ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners , Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: A longtime friend stayed with me for two days, part of which time was spent alone in my home.
Shortly after he left, three fraudulent charges were flagged by my credit card company in the small country of his origin.
It is a huge coincidence. I suspect my friend obtained my credit card information and forwarded it to contacts in that country. The amounts were less than $100 each and were taken care of by the credit card company, but my suspicion remains.
How can I deal with the situation so that the friendship remains as trusting as before?
GENTLE READER: Sorry, but which part was the huge coincidence? That your friend had contacts in his country and that he also knew how to reach them?
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Still, you could try: “I don’t know how this happened, but somehow there were charges from Liechtenstein on my card, and I’ve never been there. Someone must have mistaken my credit information for yours. Perhaps you can help me figure out what happened — and make recommendations for how to fix it the next time you stay.”
DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am a college professor, and consider it important to treat all of my students with respect and proper etiquette. Because I cannot always correctly guess someone’s gender from their name or appearance, I ask students to write down their gender, along with other information such as nicknames and why they are taking the class, at the beginning of the semester so I can use the correct pronouns.
One student indicated “gender-neutral” and expressed a preference for being referred to by gender-neutral pronouns (ze, zir, etc.), which I am happy to do. But how do I greet the group of students at the beginning of class? Normally, I would say “ladies and gentlemen,” but I do not wish to exclude this student or to call undue attention to zir by adding a third option. What would you recommend?
GENTLE READER: “Good morning.”
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My husband’s ex-wife and I are very good friends. We took our four “shared” grandchildren, along with two of my other grandchildren, to a farm with many activities. Since this was in my town (we live 30 minutes from each other), I ran into several people I knew. I introduced her as my good friend who happens to be my husband’s ex-wife.
Most people comment that this is great that we can get along so well. Is there a better/different way I could have introduced her?
GENTLE READER: Why bother, if that one is working? Miss Manners finds this relationship delightful — as do, it seems, most of your other friends. If there is any confusion or disbelief, it is probably only surprise, admiration and perhaps a bit of wonder that you two get along so well.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Dear Abby: She’s pushy and jealous but I’m lonely enough to say yes

DEAR ABBY : My wife of 38 years passed away a year and a half ago .
My ex-wife , to whom I was married for 14 years , and who is the mother of our adult kids , is single again after four failed marriages .
She ’ s making overtures about getting together again .
She is assertive , likes to spend and was very jealous .
At my age , I could use the help , but it would require selling my house and moving several states away .
She ’ s really pushing , but I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would be nice to have someone around because I am lonely .
She is a neat lady , but I just don ’ t know .
Help !
DEAR PROPOSITIONED : Surely you can find someone to fill your loneliness other than a woman you divorced for at least two solid reasons .
I have four words of advice for you : When in doubt , don ’ t !
Your common sense is fueling your ambivalence .
Please pay attention to it .
At most , maintain a long-distance friendship with her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ divorced for 18 years .
The main reason for my divorce was that I married too young and wasn ’ t ready to be a wife and mother .
My daughter has just announced her engagement to a truly wonderful man , but she ’ s only 19 .
I want to support her , but I ’ m afraid she ’ s making the same mistake I did .
I have tried talking to her about it , but she is sure she is making the right decision .
I am tight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t want to pay for an expensive wedding if it ’ s going to be a waste later on if my daughter gets a divorce .
But I do want to be by her side and support her during one of the most important times of her life .
What should I do ?
DEAR MOM : Your daughter already knows you ’ re concerned about her marrying so young and the reasons why .
Ultimately , this is her decision — or mistake — to make .
Explain that you won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to her wedding because money is tight right now , but that you are there to support her emotionally now and forever .
Tell her , too , that many successful marriages begin at a courthouse , and you wish her better luck than you had .
DEAR ABBY : During a recent trip to the supermarket , I noticed a couple in their 50s who were shopping for produce .
The woman picked up eight different avocados before selecting one .
( I counted . )
The man touched three different bags @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cart .
This was repeated with each item they shopped for !
I considered asking them to stop touching the food , but I didn ’ t want a confrontation .
How would you have handled this ?
Can you please encourage your readers to minimize what they touch for the sake of public safety ?
DEAR CONCERNED : I would have handled it by talking about it to the store manager .
In California , signs are posted asking customers to please handle merchandise as little as possible , and shoppers are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ practice social distancing while shopping for groceries , but also to wear gloves .
Once you bring your groceries home , you should wipe them down , and always wash your hands thoroughly for the recommended 20 seconds .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: My wife of 38 years passed away a year and a half ago. My ex-wife, to whom I was married for 14 years, and who is the mother of our adult kids, is single again after four failed marriages. She’s making overtures about getting together again. She is assertive, likes to spend and was very jealous.
At my age, I could use the help, but it would require selling my house and moving several states away.
She’s really pushing, but I’m just not sure. It would be nice to have someone around because I am lonely. She is a neat lady, but I just don’t know. Help!
PROPOSITIONED IN THE MIDWEST
DEAR PROPOSITIONED: Surely you can find someone to fill your loneliness other than a woman you divorced for at least two solid reasons. I have four words of advice for you: When in doubt, don’t!
Your common sense is fueling your ambivalence. Please pay attention to it. At most, maintain a long-distance friendship with her.
DEAR ABBY: I have been divorced for 18 years. The main reason for my divorce was that I married too young and wasn’t ready to be a wife and mother. My daughter has just announced her engagement to a truly wonderful man, but she’s only 19.
I want to support her, but I’m afraid she’s making the same mistake I did. I have tried talking to her about it, but she is sure she is making the right decision.
I am tight on money now, and I don’t want to pay for an expensive wedding if it’s going to be a waste later on if my daughter gets a divorce. But I do want to be by her side and support her during one of the most important times of her life. What should I do?
EXPERIENCED MOM
DEAR MOM: Your daughter already knows you’re concerned about her marrying so young and the reasons why. Ultimately, this is her decision — or mistake — to make. Explain that you won’t be able to contribute financially to her wedding because money is tight right now, but that you are there to support her emotionally now and forever. Tell her, too, that many successful marriages begin at a courthouse, and you wish her better luck than you had.
DEAR ABBY: During a recent trip to the supermarket, I noticed a couple in their 50s who were shopping for produce. The woman picked up eight different avocados before selecting one. (I counted.) The man touched three different bags of oranges before placing one in their cart. This was repeated with each item they shopped for!
I considered asking them to stop touching the food, but I didn’t want a confrontation. How would you have handled this? Can you please encourage your readers to minimize what they touch for the sake of public safety?
CONCERNED SHOPPER
DEAR CONCERNED: I would have handled it by talking about it to the store manager. In California, signs are posted asking customers to please handle merchandise as little as possible, and shoppers are encouraged not only to wear masks and practice social distancing while shopping for groceries, but also to wear gloves.
Once you bring your groceries home, you should wipe them down, and always wash your hands thoroughly for the recommended 20 seconds.
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--2020-06-06--Photos: Day 8 of George Floyd protests remain peaceful in Bay Area

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the gallery on your mobile device .
Peaceful protests continued in the Bay Area as demonstrators again marched and called for a stop to police brutality .
Demonstrations were held in Pleasanton , San Francisco , Clayton , San Jose and elsewhere in the region as outrage over the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody brought people together to send a message .
In Pleasanton , nearly 3,000 gathered at Amador Valley Community Park and marched down Santa Rita Road to Valley Avenue .
Mostly teens such as Mackenzie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ School Vice Principal Malcolm Norrington , who is also a former officer , addressed the crowd .
Pleasanton police Chief David Swing spoke as well .
Meanwhile , in Clayton , a crowd of 200 gathered and listened to Mayor Julie Pierce , and to black community members speaking about their personal experiences with racism .
San Francisco saw a Critical Mass-style bike ride through the city with participants holding signs of support for Breonna Taylor , another person killed by police in Louisville , Kentucky .
More protests are scheduled in that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a die-in protest was held .

BANG Staff and correspondents, Karl Mondon, Jose Carlos Fajardo

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the gallery on your mobile device.
Peaceful protests continued in the Bay Area as demonstrators again marched and called for a stop to police brutality.
Demonstrations were held in Pleasanton, San Francisco, Clayton, San Jose, Pittsburg and elsewhere in the region as outrage over the death of George Floyd while in Minneapolis police custody brought people together to send a message. In Pleasanton, nearly 3,000 gathered at Amador Valley Community Park and marched down Santa Rita Road to Valley Avenue. Mostly teens such as Mackenzie Reese organized the protest as Foothill High School Vice Principal Malcolm Norrington, who is also a former officer, addressed the crowd. Pleasanton police Chief David Swing spoke as well.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Emeryville police announce temporary road closures ‘to deter criminal activity’

Closures will be on southbound Christie Avenue at Powell Street , southbound Shellmound Street at Shellmound Way , and westbound @ @ @ @ @ .
“ There will be an increased police presence in Emeryville to deter criminal activity @ @ @ @ @ Tejada said in an announcement .
The city ’ s commercial areas were hit by @ @ @ @ @ last weekend over the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week .

Bay City News Service
EMERYVILLE — Emeryville police announced temporary road closures in effect for Friday night “to deter criminal activity.”
Closures will be on southbound Christie Avenue at Powell Street, southbound Shellmound Street at Shellmound Way, and westbound 40th Street at Horton Street.
“There will be an increased police presence in Emeryville to deter criminal activity,” Police Chief Jennifer Tejada said in an announcement.
The city’s commercial areas were hit by looting and vandalism during protests last weekend over the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week.


mercurynews--2020-06-06--Letter: Trump should offer help, not call governors ‘weak’

Re : “ Trump threatens military action : President vows to ‘ quickly solve the problem ’ if states can ’ t halt violence ” ( Page A1 , June 1 ) : I saw news reports that President Trump called all of the governors weak .
I ’ m saddened that we don ’ t have a leader who has anything positive to say ( ever , in any way ) .
Instead of calling them “ weak , ” he should give them encouragement and help them reinforce their states .
So that they , in turn , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the current issues with the protests/riots going on .
Some of these governors have never experienced something of this magnitude in their tenure and they are seeing it head on .
• Letter : First , don ’ t ask color communities to tell us how to help • Letter : Every police force has a ‘ blue wall of silence ’ • Letter : What about the lives of looted car- , shop-owners ?
• Letter : Let ’ s stand to help our black brothers and sisters It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he ’ s said from his safe White House palace .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Re: “Trump threatens military action: President vows to ‘quickly solve the problem’ if states can’t halt violence” (Page A1, June 1):
I saw news reports that President Trump called all of the governors weak.
I’m saddened that we don’t have a leader who has anything positive to say (ever, in any way).
Instead of calling them “weak,” he should give them encouragement and help them reinforce their states. So that they, in turn, can take more serious action to deal with the current issues with the protests/riots going on.
Some of these governors have never experienced something of this magnitude in their tenure and they are seeing it head on.
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Diane Martin
Sunnyvale
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mercurynews--2020-06-07--The Latest: Portland mayor bans CS gas except as last resort

By The Associated Press — Mayor of Portland , Oregon , orders police not to use CS gas except as last resort — Atlanta protests punctuated by music take on an almost festive feel .
— Thousands demonstrate again in New York City .
— Floyd honored with memorial service near his North Carolina hometown .
PORTLAND , Ore. — Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler has ordered the city ’ s police not to use a type of tear gas except as a last resort in life-threatening situations .
Wheeler issued a statement Saturday saying he shares community concerns about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a respiratory-illness pandemic .
Critics have called on the Portland Police Bureau to permanently ban the use of CS gas on protesters .
The announcement came a day after the mayor said police would no longer use a “ long-range acoustical device , ” or LRAD , to disperse protesters .
The device can emit high-pitched , loud frequencies and can cause hearing damage .
ATLANTA — Protests downtown assumed an almost festive feel at times on Saturday , with Atlanta ’ s curfew lifted and police and National Guard presence somewhat out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ college band alumni were serenading one main protest area with a tuba-heavy mix of tunes from atop a parking garage .
Students from historically black colleges and other young people marched to City Hall to demand more action on police violence .
Jauan Durbin said he began organizing protests after two fellow college students were pulled from their car and shocked with a stun gun last Saturday by police in downtown Atlanta .
The incident was caught on video by WGCL-TV and six officers were fired and then criminally charged .
Durbin said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assistance for black businesses from Atlanta ’ s city government and increased funding for the city ’ s public school system .
LOUISVILLE , Ky. — Hundreds of people marched against police brutality on Saturday , while many more joined a vigil for Breonna Taylor , a black woman shot and killed by police nearly three months ago .
News outlets reported marchers stopped to kneel in a symbolic memorial of the death of George Floyd , a black man who died after a Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee on his neck @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Protesters have been demanding justice for Taylor , who was killed in her Louisville home in mid-March .
The 26-year-old EMT was shot eight times by narcotics detectives who knocked down her front door as they attempted to enforce a search warrant .
No drugs were found .
After the morning march , hundreds met at Metro Hall to remember Taylor ’ s life and release blue , purple and white balloons in her honor .
NEW YORK — Demonstrations over the death of George Floyd continued in New York City on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ streets and parks to protest police brutality .
Protesters crossed the Brooklyn Bridge into lower Manhattan , where other groups marched or gathered in places like Foley Square , home to state and federal court buildings , and Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village .
Police erected barriers to all but close off Times Square to vehicle and foot traffic as the city continued to enforce an 8 p.m. curfew that has created tensions between protesters and police .
NEW ORLEANS — Hundreds of people marched Saturday through City Park as part of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injustice and police brutality in America .
With chants of “ No Justice , No Peace , ” the crowd marched before leaving the park in the early afternoon under gray skies and a light drizzle .
The rally came a day after thousands gathered in the French Quarter for an hours-long protest over the death of George Floyd and others at the hands of police .
The crowd filled much of the square in front of St. Louis Cathedral and spilled onto the main thoroughfare , which had been closed to traffic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Reno Police Department has updated its use-of-force policy as police departments across the country come under scrutiny for excessive force following the death of George Floyd .
The changes will take effect immediately .
They include new guidelines on de-escalation and peer intervention , prohibiting techniques that restrict breathing , increasing supervisor and internal affairs oversight , and providing other warning options before resorting to deadly force , department officials said in a statement .
Acting Police Chief Tom Robinson said the force is committed to transparency .
SEATTLE — A ninth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of George Floyd is underway , with a large crowd of medical workers demonstrating against racism and police brutality .
Thousands of doctors , nurses and others — many in lab coats and scrubs — marched from to City Hall on Saturday morning .
One sign said , “ Nurses kneel with you , not on you.
” Another said , “ Police violence and racism are a public health emergency.
” The demonstrations in Seattle have been among the largest in the city in years .
After police were severely criticized for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disperse largely peaceful crowds , Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan and Police Chief Carmen Best imposed a 30-day moratorium on the department ’ s use of one kind of tear gas .
City officials will review and update crowd control policies , Best said .
MARSEILLE , France — Police have fired tear gas and pepper spray in skirmishes with protesters who hurled bottles and rocks at what had otherwise been an emotional but peaceful demonstration in the French southern port city of Marseille against police abuses and racism in the wake of George @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a knee in front of riot officers , gave speeches and chanted before setting off on a march through the city .
But the tail end of the march finished in chaos with clashes between police and protesters .
The rally drew more than 2,000 people .
LOUISVILLE , KY. — The Rev .
Jesse Jackson is calling for Congress to pass an anti-lynching law and eliminate protections for police officers from lawsuits .
Jackson made the plea Saturday during a news conference in Louisville , Kentucky , where he was to meet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the late Breonna Taylor .
The 26-year-old African-American woman , an emergency room technician , was shot at least eight times in her home after a brief confrontation with police who were there to serve a warrant in mid-March .
SAN FRANCISCO — Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets in San Francisco , Sacramento , Simi Valley , San Diego and other locations across California on Saturday , continuing more than a week of protest marches expressing outrage over the death of George Floyd .
Forty-nine-year-old Roderick Sweeney , who is black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the large turnout of white protesters waving signs that said “ Black Lives Matter ” as hundreds gathered in San Francisco at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center for a march across the famous span .
Floyd died on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer put his knee on the black man ’ s neck for nearly nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground .
RAEFORD , N.C. — A private memorial service for George Floyd was underway Saturday afternoon at a Baptist church in Raeford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were in attendance .
Worshipers sang along with a choir as a large photo of Floyd and a portrait of him adorned with an angel ’ s wings and halo sat at the front of the chapel .
Hoke County Sheriff Hubert Peterkin , who is African American , told congregants that police officers around the country must be able to admit to themselves , “ I am part of the problem.
” “ We as law enforcement officers don ’ t have the authority to bully , push people around and kill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a gun , ” Peterkin said as the congregation cheered .
Floyd died after a Minneapolis police officer placed a knee on his neck for several minutes on Memorial Day .
His death has resulted in protests around the world against police brutality and racism .
CHICAGO — Thousands of people marched through the streets of Chicago on Saturday , chanting and waving signs to protest the death of George Floyd and the police mistreatment of people of color .
Like many protests held elsewhere , the ones in Chicago toward the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police also reported fewer arrests related to unrest .
Mayor Lori Lightfoot said she was hopeful that would continue through the weekend , but a nightly curfew remained in effect .
The city also hired three private security firms to protect shops , grocery stores and pharmacies .
Meanwhile , in Philadelphia thousands of people demanding justice for Floyd marched peacefully through the city chanting “ No justice , no peace !
” Demonstrators gathered near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous “ Rocky ” steps , then set off for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers and National Guard members .
Smaller groups also marched in other Pennsylvania cities , including several in the Pittsburgh area .
DALLAS — Officials in Dallas on Saturday lifted a nighttime curfew that had been put in place after several days of violent demonstrations .
The curfew was lifted after consultation with Dallas Police Chief U. Reneé Hall and City Council .
Dallas City Manager T.C .
Broadnax said Dallas city residents were safer staying at home due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The curfew was announced May 31 after violent protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas over the death of George Floyd and the treatment of black people by police .
WASHINGTON — Thousands of peaceful demonstrators poured into the streets of Washington on a hot , humid Saturday afternoon to protest police brutality and racial inequality .
The protesters gathered at the Capitol , on the National Mall and in many residential neighborhoods .
The crowd erupted in applause as Mayor Muriel Bowser walked along the portion of 16th Street that she renamed Black Lives Matter Plaza on Friday .
Many of the loosely organized groups were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Donald Trump was spending the day with no public events .
The president remained behind-closed-doors , the faint sound of protesters audible in the distance .
One group of thousands of protesters chanted obscenities at Attorney General William Barr and the Department of Justice as they passed the FBI and Justice Department buildings .
The protesters held signs that read , “ When a cop kills someone , we all die ” and ” White silence is violence.
” With hands raised in the air , many also chanted “ Hands up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — Protesters at an anti-racism rally in London clashed with police on Saturday near the offices of Prime Minister Boris Johnson .
The clashes near Downing Street came at the end of largely peaceful Black Lives Matter demonstrations in the capital , including outside the U.S. Embassy .
Objects could be seen thrown at police wearing protective gear and video shared on social media appeared to show that after a horse bolted amid the clashes , a police officer was unseated after hitting traffic lights .
Photographs showed the officer being treated on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with shields formed two lines outside Downing Street , with mounted officers in-between .
This tactic has helped separate the crowd and calmed the situation .
DORAL , Fla. — About a 100 protesters gathered Saturday at President Donald Trump ’ s golf resort just outside Miami .
The protest was organized by Latinos for Black Lives Matter .
Many carried signs saying such things as “ Vote Him Out ” and “ Don ’ t Be A Bunker Boy , ” the latter a reference to reports that Trump went into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got more violent .
Trump insists he only went there briefly for an inspection .
In Doral , about a dozen police officers were on hand for the protest but did not take any actions .
Several hundred people also gathered in downtown Miami for a march with plans for a bigger rally later in the day .
The march was peaceful and led by a pastor who read Bible verses before everyone set out .
PARIS — After demonstrations in Paris , protesters denouncing police abuses and racism in the wake of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other French cities .
Demonstrators holding placards reading “ I can ’ t breathe ” and “ No justice , no peace ” in English and other slogans in French joined a crowd hundreds strong in the southern French city of Marseille .
A demonstration in Nantes on the west coast also attracted hundreds of people .
RAEFORD , N.C. — Mourners from around North Carolina waited in a quickly moving line outside a Baptist church in the small town of Raeford where a memorial service and public viewing for George Floyd was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with young children and teenagers .
One young woman wore a graduation cap and gown as she walked beside her parents outside the church , about 22 miles ( 34 kilometers ) from Floyd ’ s hometown of Fayetteville .
Several mourners told WRAL-TV that they felt drawn to attend because of Floyd ’ s death and the protests in response represent a historic or momentous moment .
The viewing was followed by the service for Floyd , who died after a Minneapolis police officer placed a knee on his neck for several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has resulted in protests around the world against police brutality and racism .
ATLANTA — Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms says she is lifting what had been a planned 8 p.m. curfew on Saturday in Atlanta after no arrests were reported Friday in Georgia ’ s largest city .
The city had been under a nightly curfew since the previous Friday , when a downtown protest dissolved into window-smashing , arson and looting .
More than 20 protests are scheduled Saturday across the Atlanta metro area .
Bottoms says she will monitor the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday night .
South Carolina ’ s largest city also decided not to enforce a curfew Saturday .
A Charleston city statement says no problems were reported Friday night .
City officials say they will monitor developments Saturday in case things change .
LONDON — British world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has decried racism as he joined a Black Lives Matter protest in his home town of Watford , about 15 miles north of London .
Reading from a script in a video posted on social media , Joshua said the “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and is “ out of control.
” Joshua , who was not wearing a face covering and was unable to observe social distancing guidelines given the size of the crowd , said he wasn ’ t talking about COVID-19 : “ The virus I ’ m referring to is called racism.
” He said people should “ speak out in peaceful demonstrations , ” but they shouldn ’ t use them “ for selfish motives ” and turn to rioting and looting .
BUFFALO , N.Y. — Prosecutors say two Buffalo police officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video showed them shoving a 75-year-old protester to the sidewalk .
Both pleaded not guilty Saturday to second-degree assault .
The two officers were suspended without pay Friday after a TV crew captured the confrontation the day before near the end of protests over the death of George Floyd .
The footage shows a man identified as Martin Gugino approaching a line of helmeted officers holding batons as they clear demonstrators from Niagara Square .
Two officers push Gugino backward , and he hits his head on the pavement .
Blood spills from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Follow more AP stories on the George Floyd protests and reaction at https : //apnews.com/GeorgeFloyd

By The Associated Press
TOP OF THE HOUR:
— Police use flash bang devices, pepper spray to disperse Seattle protesters
— Mayor of Portland, Oregon, orders police not to use CS gas except as last resort
— Thousands demonstrate again in New York City.
— Jesse Jackson calls on Congress to pass anti-lynching law.
— Floyd honored with memorial service near his North Carolina hometown.
___
SEATTLE — Police used flash bang devices and pepper spray to disperse a crowd of protesters in Seattle on Saturday night, the ninth consecutive day of George Floyd protests in the city.
The mayhem in the city’s Capitol Hill neighborhood followed a large, peaceful demonstration earlier in the day with medical workers demonstrating against racism and police brutality. It also came a day after Mayor Jenny Durkan and Police Chief Carmen Best imposed a 30-day moratorium on the department’s use of one kind of tear gas.
KING-TV reports that a small group of protesters started throwing objects at officers about 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. Police ordered the crowd to move, then used incendiary devices.
After police were severely criticized by protesters and public officials alike for using tear gas and pepper spray to disperse largely peaceful crowds, Durkan and Best said Friday outside groups would review and update crowd-control policies, including the use of pepper spray and deadly force techniques such as neck and choke holds. She and the mayor added that the ban on one kind of tear gas known as CS could be extended if groups need more time for policy review.
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SEATTLE — A ninth consecutive day of protests over the death of George Floyd is underway in Seattle, with a large crowd of medical workers demonstrating against racism and police brutality.
Thousands of doctors, nurses and others marched from Harborview Medical Center to City Hall on Saturday morning. Many wore lab coats and scrubs.
The recent demonstrations in Seattle have been among the largest the city has seen in years.
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan said Saturday she is encouraging protesters to be tested for COVID-19 after the city and King County public health departments expanded testing criteria to cover asymptomatic people who have attended large protests.
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PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler has ordered the city’s police not to use a type of tear gas except as a last resort in life-threatening situations.
Wheeler issued a statement Saturday saying he shares community concerns about the use of CS gas, especially during a respiratory-illness pandemic.
Critics have called on the Portland Police Bureau to permanently ban the use of CS gas on protesters.
The announcement came a day after the mayor said police would no longer use a “long-range acoustical device,” or LRAD, to disperse protesters. The device can emit high-pitched, loud frequencies and can cause hearing damage.
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ATLANTA — Protests downtown assumed an almost festive feel at times on Saturday, with Atlanta’s curfew lifted and police and National Guard presence somewhat out of view.
A group of black college band alumni were serenading one main protest area with a tuba-heavy mix of tunes from atop a parking garage.
Students from historically black colleges and other young people marched to City Hall to demand more action on police violence. Jauan Durbin said he began organizing protests after two fellow college students were pulled from their car and shocked with a stun gun last Saturday by police in downtown Atlanta. The incident was caught on video by WGCL-TV and six officers were fired and then criminally charged.
Durbin said youth protesters are calling for increased financial assistance for black businesses from Atlanta’s city government and increased funding for the city’s public school system.
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LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Hundreds of people marched against police brutality on Saturday, while many more joined a vigil for Breonna Taylor, a black woman shot and killed by police nearly three months ago.
News outlets reported marchers stopped to kneel in a symbolic memorial of the death of George Floyd, a black man who died after a Minneapolis police officer pressed a knee on his neck while he pleaded for air while handcuffed.
Protesters have been demanding justice for Taylor, who was killed in her Louisville home in mid-March. The 26-year-old EMT was shot eight times by narcotics detectives who knocked down her front door as they attempted to enforce a search warrant. No drugs were found.
After the morning march, hundreds met at Metro Hall to remember Taylor’s life and release blue, purple and white balloons in her honor.
___
NEW YORK — Demonstrations over the death of George Floyd continued in New York City on Saturday, with thousands taking to the streets and parks to protest police brutality.
Protesters crossed the Brooklyn Bridge into lower Manhattan, where other groups marched or gathered in places like Foley Square, home to state and federal court buildings, and Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village.
Police erected barriers to all but close off Times Square to vehicle and foot traffic as the city continued to enforce an 8 p.m. curfew that has created tensions between protesters and police.
___
NEW ORLEANS — Hundreds of people marched Saturday through City Park as part of a continuing movement of protests against racial injustice and police brutality in America.
With chants of “No Justice, No Peace,” the crowd marched before leaving the park in the early afternoon under gray skies and a light drizzle.
The rally came a day after thousands gathered in the French Quarter for an hours-long protest over the death of George Floyd and others at the hands of police. The crowd filled much of the square in front of St. Louis Cathedral and spilled onto the main thoroughfare, which had been closed to traffic by police.
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RENO, Nev. — The Reno Police Department has updated its use-of-force policy as police departments across the country come under scrutiny for excessive force following the death of George Floyd.
The changes will take effect immediately. They include new guidelines on de-escalation and peer intervention, prohibiting techniques that restrict breathing, increasing supervisor and internal affairs oversight, and providing other warning options before resorting to deadly force, department officials said in a statement.
Acting Police Chief Tom Robinson said the force is committed to transparency.
___
SEATTLE — A ninth consecutive day of protests over the death of George Floyd is underway, with a large crowd of medical workers demonstrating against racism and police brutality.
Thousands of doctors, nurses and others — many in lab coats and scrubs — marched from to City Hall on Saturday morning. One sign said, “Nurses kneel with you, not on you.” Another said, “Police violence and racism are a public health emergency.”
The demonstrations in Seattle have been among the largest in the city in years.
After police were severely criticized for using tear gas and pepper spray to disperse largely peaceful crowds, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan and Police Chief Carmen Best imposed a 30-day moratorium on the department’s use of one kind of tear gas.
City officials will review and update crowd control policies, Best said.
___
MARSEILLE, France — Police have fired tear gas and pepper spray in skirmishes with protesters who hurled bottles and rocks at what had otherwise been an emotional but peaceful demonstration in the French southern port city of Marseille against police abuses and racism in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
Protesters took a knee in front of riot officers, gave speeches and chanted before setting off on a march through the city. But the tail end of the march finished in chaos with clashes between police and protesters.
The rally drew more than 2,000 people.
___
LOUISVILLE, KY. — The Rev. Jesse Jackson is calling for Congress to pass an anti-lynching law and eliminate protections for police officers from lawsuits.
Jackson made the plea Saturday during a news conference in Louisville, Kentucky, where he was to meet with Mayor Greg Fischer and the family of the late Breonna Taylor.
The 26-year-old African-American woman, an emergency room technician, was shot at least eight times in her home after a brief confrontation with police who were there to serve a warrant in mid-March.
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SAN FRANCISCO — Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets in San Francisco, Sacramento, Simi Valley, San Diego and other locations across California on Saturday, continuing more than a week of protest marches expressing outrage over the death of George Floyd.
Forty-nine-year-old Roderick Sweeney, who is black, said he was overwhelmed to see the large turnout of white protesters waving signs that said “Black Lives Matter” as hundreds gathered in San Francisco at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center for a march across the famous span.
Floyd died on Memorial Day after a white Minneapolis police officer put his knee on the black man’s neck for nearly nine minutes while Floyd was handcuffed and lying face-down on the ground.
___
RAEFORD, N.C. — A private memorial service for George Floyd was underway Saturday afternoon at a Baptist church in Raeford, North Carolina.
Several hundred celebrants were in attendance. Worshipers sang along with a choir as a large photo of Floyd and a portrait of him adorned with an angel’s wings and halo sat at the front of the chapel.
Hoke County Sheriff Hubert Peterkin, who is African American, told congregants that police officers around the country must be able to admit to themselves, “I am part of the problem.”
“We as law enforcement officers don’t have the authority to bully, push people around and kill them just because we have a badge and a gun,” Peterkin said as the congregation cheered.
Floyd died after a Minneapolis police officer placed a knee on his neck for several minutes on Memorial Day. His death has resulted in protests around the world against police brutality and racism.
___
CHICAGO — Thousands of people marched through the streets of Chicago on Saturday, chanting and waving signs to protest the death of George Floyd and the police mistreatment of people of color.
Like many protests held elsewhere, the ones in Chicago toward the end of the week were peaceful and police also reported fewer arrests related to unrest. Mayor Lori Lightfoot said she was hopeful that would continue through the weekend, but a nightly curfew remained in effect. The city also hired three private security firms to protect shops, grocery stores and pharmacies.
Meanwhile, in Philadelphia thousands of people demanding justice for Floyd marched peacefully through the city chanting “No justice, no peace!” Demonstrators gathered near the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous “Rocky” steps, then set off for City Hall where they chanted at police officers and National Guard members.
Smaller groups also marched in other Pennsylvania cities, including several in the Pittsburgh area.
___
DALLAS — Officials in Dallas on Saturday lifted a nighttime curfew that had been put in place after several days of violent demonstrations.
The curfew was lifted after consultation with Dallas Police Chief U. Reneé Hall and City Council.
Dallas City Manager T.C. Broadnax said Dallas city residents were safer staying at home due to the coronavirus pandemic. The curfew was announced May 31 after violent protests took place in downtown Dallas and other areas over the death of George Floyd and the treatment of black people by police.
___
WASHINGTON — Thousands of peaceful demonstrators poured into the streets of Washington on a hot, humid Saturday afternoon to protest police brutality and racial inequality.
The protesters gathered at the Capitol, on the National Mall and in many residential neighborhoods. The crowd erupted in applause as Mayor Muriel Bowser walked along the portion of 16th Street that she renamed Black Lives Matter Plaza on Friday.
Many of the loosely organized groups were moving toward the White House, where President Donald Trump was spending the day with no public events. The president remained behind-closed-doors, the faint sound of protesters audible in the distance.
One group of thousands of protesters chanted obscenities at Attorney General William Barr and the Department of Justice as they passed the FBI and Justice Department buildings. The protesters held signs that read, “ When a cop kills someone, we all die” and ”White silence is violence.” With hands raised in the air, many also chanted “Hands up, don’t shoot.”
___
LONDON — Protesters at an anti-racism rally in London clashed with police on Saturday near the offices of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The clashes near Downing Street came at the end of largely peaceful Black Lives Matter demonstrations in the capital, including outside the U.S. Embassy.
Objects could be seen thrown at police wearing protective gear and video shared on social media appeared to show that after a horse bolted amid the clashes, a police officer was unseated after hitting traffic lights. Photographs showed the officer being treated on the ground.
Police in helmets and with shields formed two lines outside Downing Street, with mounted officers in-between. This tactic has helped separate the crowd and calmed the situation.
___
DORAL, Fla. — About a 100 protesters gathered Saturday at President Donald Trump’s golf resort just outside Miami.
The protest was organized by Latinos for Black Lives Matter. Many carried signs saying such things as “Vote Him Out” and “Don’t Be A Bunker Boy,” the latter a reference to reports that Trump went into the White House bunker when protests in Washington got more violent.
Trump insists he only went there briefly for an inspection.
In Doral, about a dozen police officers were on hand for the protest but did not take any actions.
Several hundred people also gathered in downtown Miami for a march with plans for a bigger rally later in the day. The march was peaceful and led by a pastor who read Bible verses before everyone set out.
___
PARIS — After demonstrations in Paris, protesters denouncing police abuses and racism in the wake of George Floyd’s death gathered in other French cities.
Demonstrators holding placards reading “I can’t breathe” and “No justice, no peace” in English and other slogans in French joined a crowd hundreds strong in the southern French city of Marseille.
A demonstration in Nantes on the west coast also attracted hundreds of people.
___
RAEFORD, N.C. — Mourners from around North Carolina waited in a quickly moving line outside a Baptist church in the small town of Raeford where a memorial service and public viewing for George Floyd was held Saturday.
The line included families with young children and teenagers. One young woman wore a graduation cap and gown as she walked beside her parents outside the church, about 22 miles (34 kilometers) from Floyd’s hometown of Fayetteville.
Several mourners told WRAL-TV that they felt drawn to attend because of Floyd’s death and the protests in response represent a historic or momentous moment.
The viewing was followed by the service for Floyd, who died after a Minneapolis police officer placed a knee on his neck for several minutes on May 25. His death has resulted in protests around the world against police brutality and racism.
___
ATLANTA — Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms says she is lifting what had been a planned 8 p.m. curfew on Saturday in Atlanta after no arrests were reported Friday in Georgia’s largest city.
The city had been under a nightly curfew since the previous Friday, when a downtown protest dissolved into window-smashing, arson and looting.
More than 20 protests are scheduled Saturday across the Atlanta metro area. Bottoms says she will monitor the situation before deciding whether to reimpose a curfew on Sunday night.
South Carolina’s largest city also decided not to enforce a curfew Saturday. A Charleston city statement says no problems were reported Friday night. City officials say they will monitor developments Saturday in case things change.
___
LONDON — British world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua has decried racism as he joined a Black Lives Matter protest in his home town of Watford, about 15 miles north of London.
Reading from a script in a video posted on social media, Joshua said the “virus has been declared a pandemic” and is “out of control.”
Joshua, who was not wearing a face covering and was unable to observe social distancing guidelines given the size of the crowd, said he wasn’t talking about COVID-19: “The virus I’m referring to is called racism.”
He said people should “speak out in peaceful demonstrations,” but they shouldn’t use them “for selfish motives” and turn to rioting and looting.
___
BUFFALO, N.Y. — Prosecutors say two Buffalo police officers have been charged with assault after a video showed them shoving a 75-year-old protester to the sidewalk.
Both pleaded not guilty Saturday to second-degree assault. The two officers were suspended without pay Friday after a TV crew captured the confrontation the day before near the end of protests over the death of George Floyd.
The footage shows a man identified as Martin Gugino approaching a line of helmeted officers holding batons as they clear demonstrators from Niagara Square. Two officers push Gugino backward, and he hits his head on the pavement. Blood spills from his head as officers walk past.
___
Follow more AP stories on the George Floyd protests and reaction at https://apnews.com/GeorgeFloyd


mercurynews--2020-06-07--Van bursts into flames on CA-13 in Oakland

OAKLAND — A van became engulfed in flames on the southbound side of Highway 13 on Saturday afternoon , forcing @ @ @ @ @ firefighters extinguished the blaze .
The van caught fire in the shoulder of Highway 13 @ @ @ @ @ and Thornhill Drive exits .
The fire was under control by around 4:10 p.m. , @ @ @ @ @ as of 4:30 p.m .
The traffic jam extended all the way to Highway 24 @ @ @ @ @ fire is unclear .
A small area of surrounding brush caught fire as well , @ @ @ @ @ keep it from spreading further .

OAKLAND — A van became engulfed in flames on the southbound side of Highway 13 on Saturday afternoon, forcing traffic to a halt while firefighters extinguished the blaze.
The van caught fire in the shoulder of Highway 13, between the Park Avenue and Thornhill Drive exits. The fire was under control by around 4:10 p.m., but traffic was still stopped as of 4:30 p.m.
The traffic jam extended all the way to Highway 24. The cause of the fire is unclear.
A small area of surrounding brush caught fire as well, but firefighters were able to keep it from spreading further.