mercurynews--2020-02-20--Mountain lion, which attacked 6-year-old girl, captured, euthanized at Rancho San Antonio

CUPERTINO — After three days of searching , state officials captured and euthanized the mountain lion that had attacked a 6-year-old girl in Rancho San Antonio Preserve .
The female cat , between 2 and 4 years old and weighing between 60 and 70 pounds , was discovered in a tree in the area on Wednesday afternoon , according to a statement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on Thursday .
Rangers initially sedated the animal and extracted DNA before confirming it was the predator that attacked the child .
On Sunday morning , the girl was scratched @ @ @ @ @ @ @ samples were taken from her wounds , which matched the DNA of the captured mountain lion , according to the statement from agency spokesman Jordan Traverso .
The wildlife agency “ is actively engaged in mountain lion conservation across the state .
However , public safety is our top priority , ” the statement said .
“ We made the decision to euthanize the lion because it was confirmed to have attacked a human.
” According to the state wildlife website , moving problem mountain lions to other areas is not an option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conflicts with other mountain lions already there .
Or the relocated mountain lion returns.
” The 4,000-acre preserve had been closed since the attack .
It is the most popular of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District ’ s 26 preserves drawing roughly 600,000 visitors a year to the Cupertino foothills .
It will reopen Friday .
Warning signs reminding visitors of the recent attack have been placed in the park .
The girl had been hiking with her father and other adults and children when they encountered the lion Sunday on Wildcat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parking lot .
Park rangers said at the time that the adults in the group “ punched ” the mountain lion , scaring it off .
The girl suffered minor injuries , including scratches and a puncture wound , and was treated by a park ranger .
The DNA samples had been sent to the Wildlife Forensics Laboratory in Sacramento for analysis .
At no more than 70 pounds , “ that ’ s small for a full-grown lion , ” Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Area Superintendent Brad Pennington said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she wasn ’ t thriving , ” he said .
“ Mountain lions face a lot of challenges .
They need large , connected areas of habitat .
Our region is divided by roads and development , which puts wildlife closer to people and us closer to the wildlife.
” Mountain lions are spotted about once a month in Rancho San Antonio , he said , but this is the first known attack there .
It ’ s the second , however , in California over the past two months .
The first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Both were nonfatal .
Wildlife officials say the probability of being attacked by a mountain lion , which is nocturnal and normally avoids humans , is “ very low.
” Since 1986 , 17 mountain lion attacks have been verified .
The last fatal attack was in 2004 .
If you encounter a mountain lion , wildlife experts say to make yourself large and loud and slowly back away .
Do not run and do not turn your back .
Visitors should report all mountain lion sightings at Rancho San Antonio to rangers @ @ @

CUPERTINO — After three days of searching, state officials captured and euthanized the mountain lion that had attacked a 6-year-old girl in Rancho San Antonio Preserve.
The female cat, between 2 and 4 years old and weighing between 60 and 70 pounds, was discovered in a tree in the area on Wednesday afternoon, according to a statement from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife on Thursday.
Fish and Wildlife initially sedated the animal and extracted DNA before confirming it was the predator that attacked the child. On Sunday morning, the girl was scratched and bitten on the calf and DNA samples were taken from her wounds, which matched the DNA of the captured mountain lion, according to the statement from agency spokesperson Jordan Traverso.
The wildlife agency “is actively engaged in mountain lion conservation across the state. However, public safety is our top priority,” the statement said. “We made the decision to euthanize the lion because it was confirmed to have attacked a human.”
According to the state wildlife website, moving problem mountain lions to other areas is not an option because doing so “causes deadly territorial conflicts with other mountain lions already there. Or the relocated mountain lion returns.”
The 4,000-acre preserve had been closed since the attack. It is the most popular of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s 26 preserves drawing roughly 600,000 visitors a year to the Cupertino foothills. It will reopen Friday. Warning signs reminding visitors of the recent attack have been placed in the park.
The girl had been hiking with her father and other adults and children when they encountered the lion Sunday on Wildcat Loop about two miles from the main parking lot. Park rangers said at the time that the adults in the group “punched” the mountain lion, scaring it off. The girl suffered minor injuries, including scratches and a puncture wound, and was treated by a park ranger.
The DNA samples had been sent to the Wildlife Forensics Laboratory in Sacramento for analysis.
Related Articles California News | Mountain lion that scratched, punctured 6-year-old girl sought at Rancho San Antonio park
Mountain lion that scratched, punctured 6-year-old girl sought at Rancho San Antonio park California News | Child injured in mountain lion encounter at Rancho San Antonio County Park At no more than 70 pounds, “that’s small for a full-grown lion,” Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Area Superintendent Brad Pennington said in a statement Thursday. That likely means “she wasn’t thriving,” he said. “Mountain lions face a lot of challenges. They need large, connected areas of habitat. Our region is divided by roads and development, which puts wildlife closer to people and us closer to the wildlife.”
Mountain lions are spotted about once a month in Rancho San Antonio, he said, but this is the first known attack there.
It’s the second, however, in California over the past two months. The first occurred in Orange County in January. Both were nonfatal. Wildlife officials say the probability of being attacked by a mountain lion, which is nocturnal and normally avoids humans, is “very low.” Since 1986, 17 mountain lion attacks have been verified. The last fatal attack in California was in 2004.
If you encounter a mountain lion, wildlife experts say to make yourself large and loud and slowly back away. Do not run and do not turn your back. Visitors should report all mountain lion sightings at Rancho San Antonio to rangers at 650-691-2165.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Pair of suspects arrested in killings of 3 women found inside California home

Police said Thursday they have arrested two people suspected of killing three women who were found dead the night before inside a home in Hemet .
Late Wednesday , police got a call about a woman who reportedly was lying in a pool of blood at the scene of the crime .
Inside the home , officers found the bodies of three women , later identified by authorities as Wendy Lopez-Araiza , 46 ; Genesis Lopez-Araiza , 21 ; and Trinity Clyde , 18 .
By Thursday afternoon , police had arrested two people ; both are expected to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Officer Cheyne Nicot , spokesman for the Hemet Police Department .
Police did not release the suspects ’ identities .
Nicot said investigators are not looking for any additional suspects .
Investigators also did not release details on what may have led to the slayings .
Officers were called at about 8:50 p.m. Wednesday to the home in the 1400 block of Rabbit Peak Way .
Neighbors said one of the women was renting a room in the house .
One neighbor , Kristine Parker , said her roommate recalled seeing quite a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ night about 6:30 p.m. “ They always had people coming in and out of the house ” who didn ’ t live there , Parker said .
A man at the scene who said he was close to the residents said eight people lived in the home and all but one were related .
Another man , who who said he was the father of one of the victims , told ABC7 , “ They killed my baby … They took her car.
” He said she was 18 years old .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Heather Grigsby , said she worked with Trinity Clyde at The Wheelhouse roller skating rink in Hemet , where Clyde was a snack bar attendant .
“ She was like the sweetest thing ever .
She was very proper and sweet , ” Grigsby said .
At one point , some people came out of the house carrying what appeared to be armloads of clothing and bedding .
Police asked that anyone with information about the incident call Sgt .
Gabriel Gomez at 951-765-2396 .
This is a developing story .
Please check @ @ @ @

Police said Thursday they have arrested two people suspected of killing three women who were found dead the night before inside a home in Hemet.
Late Wednesday, police got a call about a woman who reportedly was lying in a pool of blood at the scene of the crime. Inside the home, officers found the bodies of three women, later identified by authorities as Wendy Lopez-Araiza, 46; Genesis Lopez-Araiza, 21; and Trinity Clyde, 18.
By Thursday afternoon, police had arrested two people; both are expected to be book on suspicion of murder, said Officer Cheyne Nicot, spokesman for the Hemet Police Department.
Police did not release the suspects’ identities. Nicot said investigators are not looking for any additional suspects.
Investigators also did not release details on what may have led to the slayings.
Officers were called at about 8:50 p.m. Wednesday to the home in the 1400 block of Rabbit Peak Way.
Neighbors said one of the women was renting a room in the house.
One neighbor, Kristine Parker, said her roommate recalled seeing quite a number of people at that house last night about 6:30 p.m. “They always had people coming in and out of the house” who didn’t live there, Parker said.
A man at the scene who said he was close to the residents said eight people lived in the home and all but one were related.
Another man, who said he was Clyde’s father, told ABC7, “They killed my baby … They took her car.” He said she was 18 years old. He did not elaborate.
Another neighbor, Heather Grigsby, said she worked with Trinity Clyde at The Wheelhouse roller skating rink in Hemet, where Clyde was a snack bar attendant. “She was like the sweetest thing ever. She was very proper and sweet,” Grigsby said.
At one point, some people came out of the house carrying what appeared to be armloads of clothing and bedding.
Police asked that anyone with information about the incident call Sgt. Gabriel Gomez at 951-765-2396.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Magid: Expert explains how to ‘power search’ on Google

It would be hard to find an internet user who isn ’ t familiar with Google .
I use it multiple times a day on both my PC and my phone and increasingly with my voice via a Google Home smart speaker .
Like most people , I use it mostly for simple searches to find businesses , news articles , medical advice , recipes and household hints and for work , including finding information I need for my articles and broadcasts , but it turns out that there are lots of ways to use Google that may not be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to conduct simple searches , there are advanced commands and – just as important – strategies that can help you find information and resources that might otherwise be hard to unearth .
That ’ s where Daniel M. Russell comes to the rescue .
Russell has the title Senior Research Scientist for Search Quality and User Happiness ” at Google .
He is also the author of a new book “ The Joy of Search ” and hosts a series of free online search classes at PowerSearchingwithGoogle.com .
We spoke the other day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interview at Larrysworld.com/joyofsearch ) to talk about the challenges we face in finding good information online at a time when there is not only a firehose of facts but a growing body of fake-facts and misinformation .
And with some exceptions , such as websites that are deliberately hidden from public view or those with no incoming or outgoing links , Google searches pretty much everything .
Google doesn ’ t vet every site for truthfulness .
As Russell told me , “ if you do a particular kind of query , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for that .
Now , that may not be the truth , but it ’ s the most relevant with respect to your query.
” As Russell pointed out in our interview “ there are legitimate reasons to find information of dubious quality.
” Some of Russell ’ s advice comes in the form of tricks and tips , such as knowing how to use some of Google ’ s “ operators ” that I ’ ll cover in a moment .
But a lot of what he talked about in the interview @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with a broader strategy that requires you to put thought into both what you search for and how you interpret the results .
One way to get better results , he said , “ is to be a little bit more precise in the words you use.
” He pointed out that a query like “ rash ” is not going to get you precise information , but you might get more useful results “ if you could describe the rash , it ’ s a crusty rash , or a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you can describe it a little bit more , then you have a better chance of getting to the thing that actually is what you ’ re searching for.
” But , as long as we ’ re on the subject of medical searches , let me give you some personal advice .
Don ’ t search for symptoms .
Every time I do that I wind up with information that scares the heck out of me .
Just about any symptom you describe could be a sign of a serious medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sign of lung cancer , but it ’ s much more likely to be a common cold .
Doctors aren ’ t perfect , but they are trained to put symptoms into context after a clinical evaluation and to dig further , if necessary , with tests that are more precise than a search engine .
However , if I do have a diagnosis or am prescribed medicine , I use Google to learn everything I can about the condition and treatment options .
Also , be sure you understand what you ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up an article whose title has words you don ’ t understand , you can search for define followed by the word .
You may also get a definition by right clicking on the word when using a PC or a Mac .
How you interpret results is also critical .
If you ’ re trying to evaluate a political candidate , for example , “ you have to be able to critically evaluate what you find , ” said Russell .
“ If you read about a candidate who ’ s invented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ need to be a discerning reader , “ to understand what ’ s a plausible story , what ’ s an impossible story ?
“ He said to be skeptical when looking at a website ’ s About page because that ’ s where you ’ re most like to find “ self-serving information.
” There are some advanced search techniques and “ operators ” that can help you find that proverbial needle in a haystack .
One is the site operator .
You can search only for information within a specific site @ @ @ @ @ @ @ virus site : stanford.edu ” to find reference to virus only on sites at Stanford .
You could widen the search but still avoid a lot of fake information by limiting the types of domains such as searching for “ virus site : .gov ” to find only U.S. government sites or “ Virus site .edu ” to find only academic sites .
Of course you may find false or inappropriate information on an academic or even government site ( and not all .edu sites are credible institutions ) , but at least @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a much smaller haystack .
I found this very useful when trying to learn about Google operators .
When I searched “ google operators , ” I got all sorts of hits .
But when I searched “ Google operators Site : Google.com , ” I quickly found Google ’ s official list .
You can also put a minus sign ( - ) in front of site to eliminate searching through a particular domain , which is a good way to find out what others are saying about a company or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own pages .
Google has calculators and conversions .
You can convert almost any currency or unit of measurements including “ how many pecks are in a bushel ?
” Consider using specialized search .
Google News only crawls registered news sites .
Google Scholar only shows results from academic sources .
Do more than one search .
Vary the query by adding an additional word such as “ review , ” “ tutorial ” or another word that could change the search ’ s context .
Also use more than one search @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different algorithms .
Google is pretty good at making assumptions .
If you type Bill Gates , you ’ ll quickly find the Microsoft founder but if you type Stone Gate you ’ ll get both gates made of stone and Stonegate Apartments .
A way to eliminate the apartments would to type “ stone gates.
” The use of quotes is especially important with longer strings of text .
As you may or may not know , you can search within any webpage by typing Ctrl F on a Windows PC or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also has a web interface for some advanced searches along with other tools , which you can find by clicking settings ( or More on a phone ) in the lower right corner of your screen .
Disclosure : Larry Magid is CEO of ConnectSafely , a non-profit internet safety organization that has received support from Google , Facebook , Microsoft and other technology companies .

It would be hard to find an internet user who isn’t familiar with Google. I use it multiple times a day on both my PC and my phone and increasingly with my voice via a Google Home smart speaker.
Like most people, I use it mostly for simple searches to find businesses, news articles, medical advice, recipes and household hints and for work, including finding information I need for my articles and broadcasts, but it turns out that there are lots of ways to use Google that may not be obvious. In addition to being able to conduct simple searches, there are advanced commands and – just as important – strategies that can help you find information and resources that might otherwise be hard to unearth.
That’s where Daniel M. Russell comes to the rescue. Russell has the title Senior Research Scientist for Search Quality and User Happiness” at Google. He is also the author of a new book “The Joy of Search” and hosts a series of free online search classes at PowerSearchingwithGoogle.com.
We spoke the other day (you can listen to the full interview at Larrysworld.com/joyofsearch) to talk about the challenges we face in finding good information online at a time when there is not only a firehose of facts but a growing body of fake-facts and misinformation. And with some exceptions, such as websites that are deliberately hidden from public view or those with no incoming or outgoing links, Google searches pretty much everything. Google doesn’t vet every site for truthfulness. As Russell told me, “if you do a particular kind of query, we will show you the most relevant results for that. Now, that may not be the truth, but it’s the most relevant with respect to your query.” As Russell pointed out in our interview “there are legitimate reasons to find information of dubious quality.”
Some of Russell’s advice comes in the form of tricks and tips, such as knowing how to use some of Google’s “operators” that I’ll cover in a moment. But a lot of what he talked about in the interview and in his book and classes has to do with a broader strategy that requires you to put thought into both what you search for and how you interpret the results.
One way to get better results, he said, “is to be a little bit more precise in the words you use.” He pointed out that a query like “rash” is not going to get you precise information, but you might get more useful results “if you could describe the rash, it’s a crusty rash, or a separating rash or a burning rash. If you can describe it a little bit more, then you have a better chance of getting to the thing that actually is what you’re searching for.”
But, as long as we’re on the subject of medical searches, let me say how I’ve come to approach it. In most cases, I no longer search for symptoms. Every time I do that I wind up with information that scares the heck out of me. Just about any symptom you describe could be a sign of a serious medical condition. A cough might be a sign of lung cancer, but it’s much more likely to be a common cold. Doctors aren’t perfect, but they are trained to put symptoms into context after a clinical evaluation and to dig further, if necessary, with tests that are more precise than a search engine. However, if I do have a diagnosis or am prescribed medicine, I use Google to learn everything I can about the condition and treatment options.
Also, be sure you understand what you’re reading. If a search brings up an article whose title has words you don’t understand, you can search for define followed by the word. You may also get a definition by right clicking on the word when using a PC or a Mac.
How you interpret results is also critical. If you’re trying to evaluate a political candidate, for example, “you have to be able to critically evaluate what you find,” said Russell. “If you read about a candidate who’s invented anti-gravity, be skeptical. You need to be a discerning reader, “to understand what’s a plausible story, what’s an impossible story? “ He said to be skeptical when looking at a website’s About page because that’s where you’re most like to find “self-serving information.”
Tips and Tricks
There are some advanced search techniques and “operators” that can help you find that proverbial needle in a haystack. One is the site operator. You can search only for information within a specific site by typing, for example, “virus site:stanford.edu” to find references to virus only on sites at Stanford. You could widen the search but still avoid a lot of fake information by limiting the types of domains such as searching for “virus site:.gov” to find only U.S. government sites or “Virus site .edu” to find only academic sites. Of course you may find false or inappropriate information on an academic or even government sites (and not all .edu sites are credible institutions), but at least you’re looking for that needle in a much smaller haystack.
I found this very useful when trying to learn about Google operators. When I searched “google operators,” I got all sorts of hits. But when I searched “Google operators Site:Google.com,” I quickly found Google’s official list. You can also put a minus sign (-) in front of site to eliminate searching through a particular domain, which is a good way to find out what others are saying about a company or organization without having to sort through their own pages.
Google has calculators and conversions. You can convert almost any currency or unit of measurements including “how many pecks are in a bushel?”
Consider using specialized search. Google News only crawls registered news sites. Google Scholar only shows results from academic sources.
Do more than one search. Vary the query by adding an additional word such as “review,” “tutorial” or another word that could change the search’s context. Also use more than one search engine to take advantage of their somewhat different algorithms.
Google is pretty good at making assumptions. If you type Bill Gates, you’ll quickly find the Microsoft founder but if you type Stone Gate you’ll get both gates made of stone and Stonegate Apartments. A way to eliminate the apartments would to type “stone gates.” The use of quotes is especially important with longer strings of text.
As you may or may not know, you can search within any webpage by typing Ctrl F on a Windows PC or Command F on a Macintosh.
Google also has a web interface for some advanced searches along with other tools, which you can find by clicking settings (or More on a phone) in the lower right corner of your screen.
Disclosure: Larry Magid is CEO of ConnectSafely, a non-profit internet safety organization that has received support from Google, Facebook, Microsoft and other technology companies.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Letter: Re-elect skilled, effective Anna Eshoo to Congress

We are in a time of unprecedented divisiveness .
The recent Washington Prayer Breakfast , which for 68 years has @ @ @ @ @ and a chance for Republicans , Democrats , national and world leaders to assemble and @ @ @ @ @ the nation , became a focus on our nation ’ s lack of unity .
@ @ @ @ @ , effective leader who pushes for progress , writing ground-breaking legislation in multiple policy areas @ @ @ @ @ ” : requires federal funds are used to build a road , pipe must be @ @ @ @ @ cable .
Efforts are required to provide a better , healthier place for all the @ @ @ @ @ • Letter : Thank Trump for rise in donations to needy Join me in supporting @ @ @ @ @ Congress .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to @ @

We are in a time of unprecedented divisiveness.
The recent Washington Prayer Breakfast, which for 68 years has been a respite from politics and a chance for Republicans, Democrats, national and world leaders to assemble and pray for each other and the nation, became a focus on our nation’s lack of unity.
Anna Eshoo is a skilled, effective leader who pushes for progress, writing ground-breaking legislation in multiple policy areas:
Medical research funding to combat toughest diseases;
Digital signature bill revolutionized e-commerce;
“Dig once”: requires federal funds are used to build a road, pipe must be laid to carry fiber optic cable.
Efforts are required to provide a better, healthier place for all the world’s children. Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
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Join me in supporting Anna Eshoo for re-election to Congress.
Mary Ellen Comport
Saratoga
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


Word Game: Feb. 21, 2020

Can you find 43 or more words in LOAFERS ?
The list will be published tomorrow .
To purchase the @ @ @ @ @ WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
@ @ @ @ @ or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of @ @ @ @ @ as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
@ @ @ @ @ a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For @ @ @ @ @ ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , @ @ @ @ @ “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or @ @ @ @ @ are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — LOAFERS (LOAFERS: LOFE-ers: Low slip-on shoes.)
Average mark 32 words
Time limit 40 minutes
Can you find 43 or more words in LOAFERS? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — TROUPER tope toper tore tour trope troupe
true truer report repro rope rote roue rout route router outer poet pore
port porter pour pourer pout pouter pure purer purr erupt euro
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--2020-02-21--Horoscopes Feb. 21, 2020: Ellen Page, discuss your intentions.

Happy Birthday : Your inclination to be a dreamer , an entrepreneur and a competitor will help you overcome any emotional discord you face .
Embracing challenges and participating to make a difference in this world will attract attention and prepare you for bigger and better opportunities and pursuits .
Your fair , amicable approach to helping others will encourage you to reach for the stars .
Your numbers are 8 , 12 , 20 , 23 , 31 , 38 , 49 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Before offering help or giving a donation , find @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or money will make a difference .
Your interest will be welcome , and the interaction you have with someone you encounter will be beneficial .
Personal gain is apparent .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Make a change or a move for the right reason .
If you act impulsively or under emotional stress , you will end up having to backtrack .
Don ’ t trust anyone asking for a handout or favor .
Concentrate on personal growth and gains .
2 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to avoid interference .
Personal improvements will add to your confidence and put you in a better position to negotiate .
Refuse to let temptation entice you into something you shouldn ’ t do .
Moderation and common sense are favored .
5 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Look for any chance that comes along to improve your surroundings , relationships and future .
Use your intelligence and your imagination to inspire you to try something new .
Expand your interests , acquaintances and skills .
Listen to good advice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22 ) : Clear up debts .
Work on a budget or payment plan that is reasonable to avoid ongoing stress .
A partnership may experience a setback if you can not divvy up the responsibilities evenly .
Be fair , but not gullible , when negotiating .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Make a positive change at home .
Discuss your plans with anyone who will be affected by what you do .
Get involved in an event or activity that will test your intelligence , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Someone you encounter will have a shared interest .
The possibilities you discuss will prompt you to sign up for a course or do the research necessary to achieve your goals .
A trip will help you get ahead .
Romance is featured .
5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Let your imagination take over in order to see where it leads .
Don ’ t feel you have to make a hasty decision because someone else does .
Bide your time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things unfold naturally .
Learn from your experiences .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : A personal change will be good for your emotional attitude as well as help you make better decisions .
Say goodbye to those who use unfair tactics to dupe you into things you don ’ t want to do .
Focus on personal growth , integrity and love .
4 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Do what needs to be done , then move along .
Talk to people with more experience @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of view .
Looking at a situation from every angle will ensure that you make the wisest decision .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Change can be useful as long as you don ’ t let your emotions impact the choices you make .
Look at the big picture , and gather facts before you decide to take on someone or something that can alter your life .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : If you want the freedom to do as you please , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to you the same option .
Discuss your intentions , and set up a plan that will benefit everyone and encourage better relationships moving forward .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are imaginative , encouraging and helpful .
You are dedicated and a crusader .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Ellen Page, 33; Jennifer Love Hewitt, 41; William Baldwin, 57; Kelsey Grammer, 65.
Happy Birthday: Your inclination to be a dreamer, an entrepreneur and a competitor will help you overcome any emotional discord you face. Embracing challenges and participating to make a difference in this world will attract attention and prepare you for bigger and better opportunities and pursuits. Your fair, amicable approach to helping others will encourage you to reach for the stars. Your numbers are 8, 12, 20, 23, 31, 38, 49.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Before offering help or giving a donation, find out the particulars to ensure your time or money will make a difference. Your interest will be welcome, and the interaction you have with someone you encounter will be beneficial. Personal gain is apparent. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Make a change or a move for the right reason. If you act impulsively or under emotional stress, you will end up having to backtrack. Don’t trust anyone asking for a handout or favor. Concentrate on personal growth and gains. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Do your own thing to avoid interference. Personal improvements will add to your confidence and put you in a better position to negotiate. Refuse to let temptation entice you into something you shouldn’t do. Moderation and common sense are favored. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Look for any chance that comes along to improve your surroundings, relationships and future. Use your intelligence and your imagination to inspire you to try something new. Expand your interests, acquaintances and skills. Listen to good advice. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Clear up debts. Work on a budget or payment plan that is reasonable to avoid ongoing stress. A partnership may experience a setback if you cannot divvy up the responsibilities evenly. Be fair, but not gullible, when negotiating. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Make a positive change at home. Discuss your plans with anyone who will be affected by what you do. Get involved in an event or activity that will test your intelligence, and it will encourage you to excel. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Someone you encounter will have a shared interest. The possibilities you discuss will prompt you to sign up for a course or do the research necessary to achieve your goals. A trip will help you get ahead. Romance is featured. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Let your imagination take over in order to see where it leads. Don’t feel you have to make a hasty decision because someone else does. Bide your time, live in the moment and let things unfold naturally. Learn from your experiences. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A personal change will be good for your emotional attitude as well as help you make better decisions. Say goodbye to those who use unfair tactics to dupe you into things you don’t want to do. Focus on personal growth, integrity and love. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Do what needs to be done, then move along. Talk to people with more experience or who can offer a different point of view. Looking at a situation from every angle will ensure that you make the wisest decision. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Change can be useful as long as you don’t let your emotions impact the choices you make. Look at the big picture, and gather facts before you decide to take on someone or something that can alter your life. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): If you want the freedom to do as you please, you’ll have to give those close to you the same option. Discuss your intentions, and set up a plan that will benefit everyone and encourage better relationships moving forward. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are imaginative, encouraging and helpful. You are dedicated and a crusader.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Bridge: Feb. 21, 2020

At the Fall NABC , the ACBL inaugurated the Soloway Knockout Teams .
In a new format , two days of short qualifying matches left 32 teams to play full-day matches .
The winners were Josef BLASS ( npc ) , Jacek Pszczola ( U.S. ) , Jacek Kalita and Michal Nowosadzki ( Poland ) , and Bas Drijver and Sjoert Brink ( Switzerland ) .
In the final BLASS rallied past Nick NICKELL-Ralph Katz , Robert Levin-Steve Weinstein and Jeff Meckstroth-Eric Rodwell , 123 to 102 .
With four deals left , BLASS led narrowly .
In today ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as North-South .
Nowosadzki-Kalita got to slam when both players took bold views .
Rodwell , West , had to lead .
Against 6NT , an opening leader often tries for safety ; an aggressive lead may blow a crucial trick .
Rodwell led a spade , but South won in dummy and led a diamond to his queen .
He took 12 tricks .
If West leads the king of hearts , South fails , and NICKELL wins 11 IMPs and retakes the lead .
They lost 11 instead , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : S Q J 7 H A 7 5 D Q J 2 C A K Q 6 .
You open one club , your partner responds one spade , you jump to 2NT and he next bids three hearts .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : You should show your support for partner ’ s first suit — what he wants to hear .
Bid three spades .
If your values were a bit more slammish — say you held K J 7 , A 7 5 , A 3 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jump to four spades to emphasize the quality of your support would be correct .

At the Fall NABC, the ACBL inaugurated the Soloway Knockout Teams. In a new format, two days of short qualifying matches left 32 teams to play full-day matches.
The winners were Josef BLASS (npc), Jacek Pszczola (U.S.), Jacek Kalita and Michal Nowosadzki (Poland), and Bas Drijver and Sjoert Brink (Switzerland). In the final BLASS rallied past Nick NICKELL-Ralph Katz, Robert Levin-Steve Weinstein and Jeff Meckstroth-Eric Rodwell, 123 to 102.
With four deals left, BLASS led narrowly. In today’s deal, Levin-Weinstein stopped at 3NT as North-South. Nowosadzki-Kalita got to slam when both players took bold views.
SAFETY
Rodwell, West, had to lead. Against 6NT, an opening leader often tries for safety; an aggressive lead may blow a crucial trick. Rodwell led a spade, but South won in dummy and led a diamond to his queen. He took 12 tricks.
If West leads the king of hearts, South fails, and NICKELL wins 11 IMPs and retakes the lead. They lost 11 instead, and the title went to BLASS.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S Q J 7 H A 7 5 D Q J 2 C A K Q 6. You open one club, your partner responds one spade, you jump to 2NT and he next bids three hearts. What do you say?
ANSWER: You should show your support for partner’s first suit — what he wants to hear. Bid three spades. If your values were a bit more slammish — say you held K J 7, A 7 5, A 3 2, A K 8 6 — to jump to four spades to emphasize the quality of your support would be correct.
South dealer
Neither side vulnerable
NORTH
S A K 4
H 9 6 3
D A 9 8 6 5
C J 5
WEST
S 10 6 5 2
H K Q 2
D K 10 7 4
C 9 2
EAST
S 9 8 3
H J 10 8 4
D 3
C 10 8 7 4 3
SOUTH
S Q J 7
H A 7 5
D Q J 2
C A K Q 6
South West North East
1 C Pass 1 D Pass
2 NT Pass 4 NT Pass
6 NT All Pass
Opening lead — Choose it
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Letter: Can’t figure out foes of Danville’s Measure Y

As a resident outside of Danville , I can only stand back and guess the motivation for opposition to the @ @ @ @ @ Ranch Preserve project .
Never before have we seen so few residential units on such @ @ @ @ @ land , or endorsements by Save Mount Diablo , East Bay Regional Park District , @ @ @ @ @ Town Council and many more .
• Letter : Thank Trump for rise in donations @ @ @ @ @ and Sycamore Valley can walk out their door and enjoy regional trail connections , safe @ @ @ @ @ of scenic open space .
How is that wrong for Danville ?
Submit your letter @ @ @ @ @ form Read more Letters to the Editor

As a resident outside of Danville, I can only stand back and guess the motivation for opposition to the Measure Y, the Magee Ranch Preserve project.
Never before have we seen so few residential units on such a large parcel of open land, or endorsements by Save Mount Diablo, East Bay Regional Park District, bicycle groups, the Danville Town Council and many more. Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
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Residents in Diablo and Sycamore Valley can walk out their door and enjoy regional trail connections, safe bike lanes and a backdrop of scenic open space. How is that wrong for Danville?
Jeff and Nancy Wiedemann
Pleasanton
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Dear Abby: Her groom may not know about her wedding scam

DEAR ABBY : My daughter , “ Heidi , ” is 39 .
She is successful , owns her own business and lives with her boyfriend of five years .
I ’ ll call him Rick .
They have two beautiful boys , 3 and 18 months .
She has decided to tie the knot with Rick with a nice , somewhat big wedding .
As Heidi has gotten older , she has been changing into a different person .
She has become self-centered and controlling , and she puts Rick down cruelly at times .
I think he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just not for her .
I really don ’ t know because I stay out of their lives .
What ’ s making me uncomfortable is , my daughter has told only me that she ’ s doing all this wedding stuff without getting an actual marriage license .
I don ’ t even know if Rick is aware .
I looked this up and saw that some people are now having what ’ s called “ commitment ceremonies.
” When I tried to talk to her about it , she became defensive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sent me a long , nasty email .
So now I just step back .
• Dear Abby : This stranger got huffy when we joined him on a park bench .
Were we wrong ?
• Dear Abby : How will I hide a 70-pound weight loss from my family ?
• Dear Abby : I don ’ t think I can date a man who dresses like this • Dear Abby : Someone died in my yard , and his family built a big , tacky shrine there • Dear Abby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ secret tea dates When I think of the guests ( 100 to 150 ) , I feel she should be honest and call it what it is .
We are presently not communicating because I won ’ t respond to that kind of email .
I won ’ t argue with her .
But I don ’ t know where to go at this point .
I ’ m worried about her state of mind .
She is supposedly seeing a therapist , and a few weeks back I suggested she and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love to hear your thoughts .
DEAR TRADITIONAL MOM : Your daughter is an adult , and if you refuse to have anything to do with this charade , I would understand .
When guests are invited to a “ wedding , ” gifts are expected .
If it ’ s a production that ’ s only for show , the couple is committing fraud and taking advantage of the generosity of their guests .
When couples marry , they must first take out a marriage license , which BOTH must sign .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ your daughter ’ s boyfriend is completely clueless , she won ’ t be able to slip this by him .
Although people do have commitment ceremonies these days , guests should be told that is what they will be witnessing , and both partners should agree on it .
DEAR ABBY : I have been married to a wonderful man for 20 years .
It has been a pretty good marriage .
I have tolerated a few of his family members ’ rudeness to me , although I have no problem speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my husband always defends me as well .
My father-in-law recently passed , and I adored him .
For his wake , my two sisters-in-law made a slide show of his life with hundreds of family photos .
There was not one single photo of my father-in-law and me .
I feel it was the final straw .
I have no more room in my heart and life for them .
Am I being too sensitive ?
My husband hasn ’ t spoken to them since the funeral .
I really need your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IN TEXAS DEAR PICTURING IT : I ’ m glad you asked .
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of someone so close to your heart .
But as close as you felt to him , your sisters-in-law had just lost their father .
I ’ m sure they were ( and are ) grieving and didn ’ t use his death as an opportunity to slight you .
I sincerely hope you and your husband won ’ t allow their oversight to cause a permanent rift in the family .
Dear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 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 daughter, “Heidi,” is 39. She is successful, owns her own business and lives with her boyfriend of five years. I’ll call him Rick. They have two beautiful boys, 3 and 18 months. She has decided to tie the knot with Rick with a nice, somewhat big wedding.
As Heidi has gotten older, she has been changing into a different person. She has become self-centered and controlling, and she puts Rick down cruelly at times. I think he’s a good guy, but maybe just not for her. I really don’t know because I stay out of their lives.
What’s making me uncomfortable is, my daughter has told only me that she’s doing all this wedding stuff without getting an actual marriage license. I don’t even know if Rick is aware. I looked this up and saw that some people are now having what’s called “commitment ceremonies.” When I tried to talk to her about it, she became defensive, cut me off, and then sent me a long, nasty email. So now I just step back.
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We are presently not communicating because I won’t respond to that kind of email. I won’t argue with her. But I don’t know where to go at this point. I’m worried about her state of mind.
She is supposedly seeing a therapist, and a few weeks back I suggested she and Rick get marriage counseling. I would love to hear your thoughts.
TRADITIONAL MOM IN THE EAST
DEAR TRADITIONAL MOM: Your daughter is an adult, and if you refuse to have anything to do with this charade, I would understand. When guests are invited to a “wedding,” gifts are expected. If it’s a production that’s only for show, the couple is committing fraud and taking advantage of the generosity of their guests.
When couples marry, they must first take out a marriage license, which BOTH must sign. No license, no marriage. Unless your daughter’s boyfriend is completely clueless, she won’t be able to slip this by him. Although people do have commitment ceremonies these days, guests should be told that is what they will be witnessing, and both partners should agree on it.
DEAR ABBY: I have been married to a wonderful man for 20 years. It has been a pretty good marriage. I have tolerated a few of his family members’ rudeness to me, although I have no problem speaking up when I need to, and my husband always defends me as well.
My father-in-law recently passed, and I adored him. For his wake, my two sisters-in-law made a slide show of his life with hundreds of family photos. There was not one single photo of my father-in-law and me. I feel it was the final straw. I have no more room in my heart and life for them.
Am I being too sensitive? My husband hasn’t spoken to them since the funeral. I really need your advice on this.
PICTURING IT OVER IN TEXAS
DEAR PICTURING IT: I’m glad you asked. Please accept my sympathy for the loss of someone so close to your heart. But as close as you felt to him, your sisters-in-law had just lost their father. I’m sure they were (and are) grieving and didn’t use his death as an opportunity to slight you.
I sincerely hope you and your husband won’t allow their oversight to cause a permanent rift in the family.
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--2020-02-21--Miss Manners: My boyfriend called the waitress ‘missy’ and said it’s perfectly polite

DEAR MISS MANNERS : My boyfriend and I had a disagreement : He called our waitress “ missy ” and asked her how much she wanted for a tip .
I later asked him why he did that .
He said that “ missy ” is the same as “ miss ” or “ ma ’ am , ” and that it ’ s also polite to make sure your tip is adequate with the server .
Is this true ?
I ’ ve never heard either before .
GENTLE READER : That ’ s because he made it up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used — except , on occasion , with one ’ s own mouthy teenager ( as in , “ Would you like to try that again , but without the attitude , missy ?
” ) And no server in the history of the world ever wanted to discuss the tip , except perhaps indignantly afterward ( as in , “ I ’ m sorry , was the service not to your liking ?
” ) .
• Miss Manners : I got him a half-price ticket .
Can I ask him to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m kind of antisocial , and now I ’ m in trouble at work • Miss Manners : They don ’ t know she shares their personal emails with all of us • Miss Manners : Invited solo to a wedding ?
Just don ’ t show up • Miss Manners : Why won ’ t my guests clean my toilet ?
Please tell your boyfriend that Miss Manners recommends he find other , less belittling honorifics for waitresses — and that he join the ranks of the rest of us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an adequate tip ( although 20 % is still usually considered standard ) .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : How does one respond to someone rejecting a gift ?
Should the giver immediately receive the returned item back and take it in stride , or are protestations warranted first ?
My boss has been instrumental in starting and advancing my career .
After several years , I am now in an established position , thanks to the opportunities he has provided me .
For his birthday , I purchased a food item I know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to him with a card expressing my gratitude for his help over the years .
The item was not exorbitantly expensive , but was likely a few dozen more dollars than my colleagues chipped in for a gift card .
It is a nice example of this food he enjoys , and has a neat little history , which I anticipate he is aware of .
He returned it to me , stating it was too generous and that he could not accept it .
I was not sure how to respond , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and simply accepted it back , muttering a simple , “ Oh , I ’ m sorry.
” Would you mind sharing your insights on the most polite way to have responded ?
GENTLE READER : “ I truly hoped that you would enjoy this .
You were so kind to me all those years and I took such pleasure in picking it out and thanking you .
If you feel that it is too much , perhaps you could share it with your office.
” However , since it is food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it might not survive another trip back .
In that case , you might add , “ I suppose I can share it with my co-workers and regale them with the stories of your generosity.
” DEAR MISS MANNERS : I am trying to find out if all is OK with a family member .
How many times should I call or text before I become a nuisance ?
GENTLE READER : Try saying , “ If I don ’ t hear from you in the next day or two , I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure that you are still alive.
” That should make the response time quicker .
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: My boyfriend and I had a disagreement: He called our waitress “missy” and asked her how much she wanted for a tip.
I later asked him why he did that. He said that “missy” is the same as “miss” or “ma’am,” and that it’s also polite to make sure your tip is adequate with the server.
Is this true? I’ve never heard either before.
GENTLE READER: That’s because he made it up. “Missy” should never be used — except, on occasion, with one’s own mouthy teenager (as in, “Would you like to try that again, but without the attitude, missy?”)
And no server in the history of the world ever wanted to discuss the tip, except perhaps indignantly afterward (as in, “I’m sorry, was the service not to your liking?”).
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DEAR MISS MANNERS: How does one respond to someone rejecting a gift? Should the giver immediately receive the returned item back and take it in stride, or are protestations warranted first?
My boss has been instrumental in starting and advancing my career. After several years, I am now in an established position, thanks to the opportunities he has provided me.
For his birthday, I purchased a food item I know he indulges in, and presented it to him with a card expressing my gratitude for his help over the years. The item was not exorbitantly expensive, but was likely a few dozen more dollars than my colleagues chipped in for a gift card. It is a nice example of this food he enjoys, and has a neat little history, which I anticipate he is aware of.
He returned it to me, stating it was too generous and that he could not accept it. I was not sure how to respond, though I was certainly a little hurt, and simply accepted it back, muttering a simple, “Oh, I’m sorry.” Would you mind sharing your insights on the most polite way to have responded?
GENTLE READER: “I truly hoped that you would enjoy this. You were so kind to me all those years and I took such pleasure in picking it out and thanking you. If you feel that it is too much, perhaps you could share it with your office.”
However, since it is food and likely perishable, Miss Manners fears it might not survive another trip back. In that case, you might add, “I suppose I can share it with my co-workers and regale them with the stories of your generosity.”
Want Miss Manners delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am trying to find out if all is OK with a family member. How many times should I call or text before I become a nuisance?
GENTLE READER: Try saying, “If I don’t hear from you in the next day or two, I am going to call the police to make sure that you are still alive.” That should make the response time quicker.
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--2020-02-21--Harriette Cole: I find women to be backstabbing in business dealings

DEAR HARRIETTE : I got into a huge argument with a woman who said she wanted to help me work on my business plan .
She agreed to a particular fee ; it was low , but promised higher returns when I met with success .
After beginning to do the work , she flaked time and again , insulted me along the way and never completed what she agreed to do .
On top of all of that , she had the nerve to say that I didn ’ t know what I was doing and that I would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ awful .
I hear people say how wonderful it is for women to work together .
That has not been my experience .
Women are usually the ones who stab me in the back .
How can I get over this feeling that I can ’ t trust women to be in my corner ?
DEAR DUPED BY A WOMAN : This one experience does not need to represent the whole of your engagement with women .
Do your best to look at this in isolation .
Evaluate it carefully .
What merit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s comments have ?
Is there something you could have done differently that might have helped the project to be more successful ?
Can you recall ever speaking to her in disparaging tones ?
Reflect on your behavior , and acknowledge anything that you could have handled differently .
• Harriette Cole : He forgives my affair .
Do I have to go back to him ?
• Harriette Cole : I had a problem on the hike , and my friends freaked out • Harriette Cole : She wants to write @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Harriette Cole : My husband is upset about one side effect of my medication • Harriette Cole : If I really was a rich kid , why did I grow up in squalor ?
Next , end this relationship .
You do not need to work with someone who is rude and unproductive .
Sever your ties .
Let her know that you are disappointed with the way that she handled herself .
Pay her only what you are legally bound to pay .
Do your best to keep your disdain for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urge to look upon all women with the same lens .
See each person for who she is .
Your life will be richer if you can .
DEAR HARRIETTE : My son was not a very good student in high school , and now he is reaping what he sowed .
He has applied to quite a few colleges , but he does not have a good chance of getting in to any of his favorites .
I convinced him to apply to a few state schools and even community colleges as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me when I made these recommendations , but I know that it is tough to get in to good schools , even when you have good grades .
How can I encourage my son to keep trying when it is likely that he will have slim pickings ?
DEAR NEXT STOP COLLEGE : Talk to your son about his future .
What does he want to do with his life ?
It is absolutely time for him to take steps to make that happen .
You can not do it for him .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice requires higher education , he needs to raise his grades in order to get it .
Community college is one way to take classes and up his GPA , which may give him a chance to complete his education at a four-year college or university .
Encourage him to take these next steps seriously .
Make it clear that you do not intend to support him financially when he is an adult , so he must figure it out now .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 got into a huge argument with a woman who said she wanted to help me work on my business plan.
She agreed to a particular fee; it was low, but promised higher returns when I met with success. After beginning to do the work, she flaked time and again, insulted me along the way and never completed what she agreed to do. On top of all of that, she had the nerve to say that I didn’t know what I was doing and that I would never amount to anything. It was awful.
I hear people say how wonderful it is for women to work together. That has not been my experience. Women are usually the ones who stab me in the back. How can I get over this feeling that I can’t trust women to be in my corner?
Duped By a Woman
DEAR DUPED BY A WOMAN: This one experience does not need to represent the whole of your engagement with women.
Do your best to look at this in isolation. Evaluate it carefully. What merit, if any, do this woman’s comments have? Is there something you could have done differently that might have helped the project to be more successful? Can you recall ever speaking to her in disparaging tones? Reflect on your behavior, and acknowledge anything that you could have handled differently.
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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 Next, end this relationship. You do not need to work with someone who is rude and unproductive. Sever your ties. Let her know that you are disappointed with the way that she handled herself. Pay her only what you are legally bound to pay.
Do your best to keep your disdain for women limited to her. Resist the urge to look upon all women with the same lens. See each person for who she is. Your life will be richer if you can.
DEAR HARRIETTE: My son was not a very good student in high school, and now he is reaping what he sowed. He has applied to quite a few colleges, but he does not have a good chance of getting in to any of his favorites.
I convinced him to apply to a few state schools and even community colleges as safety schools. He got mad at me when I made these recommendations, but I know that it is tough to get in to good schools, even when you have good grades. How can I encourage my son to keep trying when it is likely that he will have slim pickings?
Next Stop College
DEAR NEXT STOP COLLEGE: Talk to your son about his future. What does he want to do with his life? It is absolutely time for him to take steps to make that happen. You cannot do it for him.
Point out that if his career of choice requires higher education, he needs to raise his grades in order to get it. Community college is one way to take classes and up his GPA, which may give him a chance to complete his education at a four-year college or university.
Encourage him to take these next steps seriously. Make it clear that you do not intend to support him financially when he is an adult, so he must figure it out now.
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--2020-02-22--DEA agent accused of conspiring with Colombian drug cartel

By Joshua Goodman and Jim Mustain | Associated Press MIAMI — A once-standout U.S. federal narcotics agent known for spending lavishly on luxury cars and Tiffany jewelry has been arrested on charges of conspiring to launder money with the same Colombian drug cartel he was supposed to be fighting .
Jose Irizarry and his wife were arrested Friday at their home near San Juan , Puerto Rico , as part of a 19-count federal indictment that accused the 46-year-old Irizarry of “ secretly using his position and his special access to information ” to divert millions in drug proceeds from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It ’ s a black eye for the DEA to have one of its own engaged in such a high level of corruption , ” said Mike Vigil , the DEA ’ s former Chief of International Operations .
“ He jeopardized investigations .
He jeopardized other agents and he jeopardized informants.
” Federal prosecutors in Tampa , Florida , allege the conspiracy not only enriched Irizarry but benefited two unindicted co-conspirators , neither of whom is named in the indictment .
One was employed as a Colombian public official while the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a drug trafficking and money laundering organization who became the godfather to the Irizarry couple ’ s children in 2015 , when the DEA agent was posted to the Colombian resort city of Cartagena at the time .
When The Associated Press revealed the scale of Irizarry ’ s alleged wrongdoing last year , it sent shockwaves through the DEA , where his ostentatious habits and tales of raucous yacht parties with bikini-clad prostitutes were legendary among agents .
But prior to being exposed , Irizarry had been a model agent , winning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After joining the DEA in Miami 2009 , he was entrusted with an undercover money laundering operation using front companies , shell bank accounts and couriers .
Irizarry resigned in January 2018 after being reassigned to Washington when his boss in Colombia became suspicious The case has raised concerns within the DEA that the conspiracy may have compromised undercover operations and upend criminal cases .
“ His fingerprints are all over dozens of arrests and indictments , ” said David S. Weinstein , a former federal prosecutor in Miami .
“ It could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to re-examine any case he was involved in.
” Irizarry and his wife posted $ 10,000 bond each and were released .
The DEA referred comment to the Justice Department and messages to Irizarry ’ s attorney were not immediately returned .
A lawyer for the star witness in the case , a former DEA informant who was handled by Irizarry , celebrated the charges .
Gustavo Yabrudi was given a 46-month sentence last year for his role in a multimillion-dollar money-laundering conspiracy .
“ Mr .
Yabrudi has been waiting for almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Leonardo Concepcion .
“ It ’ s time that the puppet masters who pulled his strings and abused their authority over him are made to answer for their actions.
” Starting around 2011 , Irizarry allegedly used the cover of his badge to file false reports and mislead his superiors , all while directing DEA personnel to wire funds reserved for undercover stings to accounts in Spain , the Netherlands and elsewhere that he controlled or were tied to his wife and his co-conspirators .
He ’ s also accused of sharing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The DEA has declined to comment on its employment of Irizarry and potential red flags that came up during his screening process .
Irizarry was hired by the DEA despite indications he showed signs of deception in a polygraph exam , and had declared bankruptcy with debts of almost $ 500,000 .
Still , he was permitted to handle financial transactions after being hired by the DEA .
In total , Irizarry and informants under his direction handled at least $ 3.8 million that should ’ ve been carefully tracked by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investigations .
Not all of that amount was pocketed by the co-conspirators , but the indictment details at least $ 900,000 that was paid out from a single criminal account opened by Irizarry and an informant using the name , passport and social security number of a third person who was unaware their identity was being stolen .
Proceeds from the alleged scheme funded a veritable spending spree .
It included the purchase of a $ 30,000 Tiffany diamond ring , a BMW , three Land Rovers and a $ 767,000 home in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Florida and Puerto Rico , where the couple has been living .
To hide his tracks , Irizarry allegedly opened a bank account in someone else ’ s name and used the victim ’ s forged signature and Social Security number .
It also funded the purchase in Miami of a 2017 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder on behalf of a family member of co-conspirator 2 .
• Four arrested in insurance fraud sting in Contra Costa County • Report : Sanders also told Russians are trying to help him • Charging docs : Man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then leaving in her car • Weinstein jury says it is split on most serious charges A red Lamborghini with the same vehicle ID named in the indictment belongs to Jenny Ambuila , who was arrested last year in Colombia along with her father , Omar Ambuila , a customs agent in the port of Buenaventura , a major transit point for cocaine and contraband goods used to conceal the proceeds of narcotics sales .
Before her arrest , Ambuila shared photos and videos of herself on Facebook posing next to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at more than $ 300,000 .
The indictment was handed up a week after another former DEA agent was sentenced to four years in federal prison for his role in a decade long drug conspiracy that involved the smuggling of thousands of kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico to New York .

By Joshua Goodman and Jim Mustain | Associated Press
MIAMI — A once-standout U.S. federal narcotics agent known for spending lavishly on luxury cars and Tiffany jewelry has been arrested on charges of conspiring to launder money with the same Colombian drug cartel he was supposed to be fighting.
Jose Irizarry and his wife were arrested Friday at their home near San Juan, Puerto Rico, as part of a 19-count federal indictment that accused the 46-year-old Irizarry of “secretly using his position and his special access to information” to divert millions in drug proceeds from control of the Drug Enforcement Administration.
“It’s a black eye for the DEA to have one of its own engaged in such a high level of corruption,” said Mike Vigil, the DEA’s former Chief of International Operations. “He jeopardized investigations. He jeopardized other agents and he jeopardized informants.”
Federal prosecutors in Tampa, Florida, allege the conspiracy not only enriched Irizarry but benefited two unindicted co-conspirators, neither of whom is named in the indictment. One was employed as a Colombian public official while the other was described as the head of a drug trafficking and money laundering organization who became the godfather to the Irizarry couple’s children in 2015, when the DEA agent was posted to the Colombian resort city of Cartagena at the time.
When The Associated Press revealed the scale of Irizarry’s alleged wrongdoing last year, it sent shockwaves through the DEA, where his ostentatious habits and tales of raucous yacht parties with bikini-clad prostitutes were legendary among agents.
But prior to being exposed, Irizarry had been a model agent, winning awards and praise from his supervisors. After joining the DEA in Miami 2009, he was entrusted with an undercover money laundering operation using front companies, shell bank accounts and couriers. Irizarry resigned in January 2018 after being reassigned to Washington when his boss in Colombia became suspicious
The case has raised concerns within the DEA that the conspiracy may have compromised undercover operations and upend criminal cases.
“His fingerprints are all over dozens of arrests and indictments,” said David S. Weinstein, a former federal prosecutor in Miami. “It could have a ripple effect and cause courts to re-examine any case he was involved in.”
Irizarry and his wife posted $10,000 bond each and were released. The DEA referred comment to the Justice Department and messages to Irizarry’s attorney were not immediately returned.
A lawyer for the star witness in the case, a former DEA informant who was handled by Irizarry, celebrated the charges. Gustavo Yabrudi was given a 46-month sentence last year for his role in a multimillion-dollar money-laundering conspiracy.
“Mr. Yabrudi has been waiting for almost two years for this day,” said Leonardo Concepcion. “It’s time that the puppet masters who pulled his strings and abused their authority over him are made to answer for their actions.”
Starting around 2011, Irizarry allegedly used the cover of his badge to file false reports and mislead his superiors, all while directing DEA personnel to wire funds reserved for undercover stings to accounts in Spain, the Netherlands and elsewhere that he controlled or were tied to his wife and his co-conspirators.
He’s also accused of sharing sensitive law enforcement information with his co-conspirators.
The DEA has declined to comment on its employment of Irizarry and potential red flags that came up during his screening process. Irizarry was hired by the DEA despite indications he showed signs of deception in a polygraph exam, and had declared bankruptcy with debts of almost $500,000. Still, he was permitted to handle financial transactions after being hired by the DEA.
In total, Irizarry and informants under his direction handled at least $3.8 million that should’ve been carefully tracked by the DEA as part of undercover money laundering investigations.
Not all of that amount was pocketed by the co-conspirators, but the indictment details at least $900,000 that was paid out from a single criminal account opened by Irizarry and an informant using the name, passport and social security number of a third person who was unaware their identity was being stolen.
Proceeds from the alleged scheme funded a veritable spending spree. It included the purchase of a $30,000 Tiffany diamond ring, a BMW, three Land Rovers and a $767,000 home in Cartagena as well as homes in south Florida and Puerto Rico, where the couple has been living. To hide his tracks, Irizarry allegedly opened a bank account in someone else’s name and used the victim’s forged signature and Social Security number.
It also funded the purchase in Miami of a 2017 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder on behalf of a family member of co-conspirator 2.
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Giuliani: Legal quagmires have left him broke National News | Oakland nonfatal shooting suspect hit with federal gun possession charges A red Lamborghini with the same vehicle ID named in the indictment belongs to Jenny Ambuila, who was arrested last year in Colombia along with her father, Omar Ambuila, a customs agent in the port of Buenaventura, a major transit point for cocaine and contraband goods used to conceal the proceeds of narcotics sales. Before her arrest, Ambuila shared photos and videos of herself on Facebook posing next to the red sports car, which is valued at more than $300,000.
The indictment was handed up a week after another former DEA agent was sentenced to four years in federal prison for his role in a decade long drug conspiracy that involved the smuggling of thousands of kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico to New York.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Four arrested in insurance fraud sting in Contra Costa County

Four people were arrested in an insurance fraud sting targeting auto body repair shops in Contra Costa County , officials reported Friday .
The operation , a joint effort by the Contra Costa District Attorney ’ s Office and the California Department of Insurance , resulted in the arrests of Estephanie Gonzalez-Marquez , 26 , of Tepa Autobody in Pittsburg ; Marco Antonio Hernandez Santizo , 49 , of 101 Auto Body in Richmond ; Kyle Alan Coburn , 30 , of AW Collision in Concord ; and Vu Phong Hoang , 33 , of Kee ’ s Auto Body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eight felony counts of insurance fraud between them .
“ These suspects brazenly worked to rip off insurance companies by making bogus insurance claims , ” Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara wrote in a news release .
“ We are tackling the issue of insurance fraud head on , and are taking proactive steps to educate the public and provide a deterrent message to those knowingly breaking the law .
Insurance fraud is not a victimless crime .
We all pay for the cost of fraud through higher premiums .
Working with our partners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the NICB will help fight this multimillion dollar problem and bring fraudsters to justice.
” An undercover officer visited several shops and requested a repair estimate to assist with filing a false insurance claim .
In one instance , repair shop employees allegedly provided the officer with bogus documentation to support the fraudulent claim , according to the news release .
In another , body shop personnel allegedly coached an undercover officer to tell the insurance company a phony story — including lying about where and how vehicle damage occurred .
Accepting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disregard for the fact that a customer intends to commit insurance fraud is a felony punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $ 50,000 , according to the District Attorney ’ s Office .
Providing false or misleading information to support an insurance claim is a felony punishable by up to five years state prison and a fine of up to $ 50,000 .
Hernandez and Gonzalez-Marquez were indicted by a grand jury in December , and Coburn and Hoang were arrested by Department of Insurance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about possible auto insurance fraud can report that information to the District Attorney ’ s Office via email at DA-ReportFraud @ contracostada.org .

Four people were arrested in an insurance fraud sting targeting auto body repair shops in Contra Costa County, officials reported Friday.
The operation, a joint effort by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office and the California Department of Insurance, resulted in the arrests of Estephanie Gonzalez-Marquez, 26, of Tepa Autobody in Pittsburg; Marco Antonio Hernandez Santizo, 49, of 101 Auto Body in Richmond; Kyle Alan Coburn, 30, of AW Collision in Concord; and Vu Phong Hoang, 33, of Kee’s Auto Body in Concord. The four are facing eight felony counts of insurance fraud between them.
“These suspects brazenly worked to rip off insurance companies by making bogus insurance claims,” Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara wrote in a news release. “We are tackling the issue of insurance fraud head on, and are taking proactive steps to educate the public and provide a deterrent message to those knowingly breaking the law. Insurance fraud is not a victimless crime. We all pay for the cost of fraud through higher premiums. Working with our partners at the District Attorney’s Office and the NICB will help fight this multimillion dollar problem and bring fraudsters to justice.”
An undercover officer visited several shops and requested a repair estimate to assist with filing a false insurance claim. In one instance, repair shop employees allegedly provided the officer with bogus documentation to support the fraudulent claim, according to the news release. In another, body shop personnel allegedly coached an undercover officer to tell the insurance company a phony story — including lying about where and how vehicle damage occurred.
Accepting business with the knowledge of or reckless disregard for the fact that a customer intends to commit insurance fraud is a felony punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000, according to the District Attorney’s Office. Providing false or misleading information to support an insurance claim is a felony punishable by up to five years state prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
Hernandez and Gonzalez-Marquez were indicted by a grand jury in December, and Coburn and Hoang were arrested by Department of Insurance Detectives on Friday.
Anyone with information about possible auto insurance fraud can report that information to the District Attorney’s Office via email at DA-ReportFraud@contracostada.org.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--NBA reschedules Warriors game against Lakers in April

The NBA announced it ’ s moving the Warriors ’ scheduled game in Los Angeles against the Lakers from April 9 to April 7 to accommodate the rescheduling of another Lakers game postponed in the wake of Kobe Bryant ’ s death .
The Warriors , who have at times been moved off national television this season while suffering through their worst season in years , will remain on TNT when they take on the Lakers on Tuesday , April 7 at 7 p.m. PT .
The network ’ s decision to keep the Warriors-Lakers can probably be summed up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LeBron James .
Curry is expected to return from a broken hand in March and the April 7 game would give viewers another look at a matchup of the two Akron , Ohio-born superstars .
The schedule change will create a bit of a challenge for the Lakers , who ’ ll now be playing on three consecutive days for the first time since the strike-shortened 2011-12 season .
The Lakers ’ originally scheduled game against the Clippers on Jan. 28 at Staples Center was two days after Bryant ’ s tragic death @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
After facing the Warriors on April 7 , the Lakers will host the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday , April 8 before taking on the Clippers on the 9th .
The schedule shuffle also affects another of the Clippers ’ games .
Their originally scheduled game against the Bulls on Wednesday , April 8 has been moved to Monday , April 6 at Staples .

The NBA announced it’s moving the Warriors’ scheduled game in Los Angeles against the Lakers from April 9 to April 7 to accommodate the rescheduling of another Lakers game postponed in the wake of Kobe Bryant’s death.
The Warriors, who have at times been moved off national television this season while suffering through their worst season in years, will remain on TNT when they take on the Lakers on Tuesday, April 7 at 7 p.m. PT.
The network’s decision to keep the Warriors-Lakers can probably be summed up in five words: Stephen Curry against LeBron James. Curry is expected to return from a broken hand in March and the April 7 game would give viewers another look at a matchup of the two Akron, Ohio-born superstars.
The schedule change will create a bit of a challenge for the Lakers, who’ll now be playing on three consecutive days for the first time since the strike-shortened 2011-12 season.
The NBA today announced the Jan. 28 game between the @Lakers and the @LAClippers, which was postponed, has been rescheduled for Thu., April 9 at 10:30 p.m. ET at Staples Center. The game will be televised by @NBAonTNT. pic.twitter.com/0q1XZ3651G — NBA (@NBA) February 21, 2020
The Lakers’ originally scheduled game against the Clippers on Jan. 28 at Staples Center was two days after Bryant’s tragic death in a helicopter crash in Southern California.
After facing the Warriors on April 7, the Lakers will host the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, April 8 before taking on the Clippers on the 9th.
The schedule shuffle also affects another of the Clippers’ games. Their originally scheduled game against the Bulls on Wednesday, April 8 has been moved to Monday, April 6 at Staples.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Letter: When is San Jose going to address homelessness?

Downtown San Jose has become a mecca for homeless .
Businesses struggle in downtown .
The city has no resolution @ @ @ @ @ Every time , I run for a workout in downtown , the smells of urine @ @ @ @ @ .
As a San Jose State University student .
I feel unsafe walking to my @ @ @ @ @ am afraid of a homeless person begging for money or jumping me because they are @ @ @ @ @ are resources available for the homeless .
The city needs to try and get people @ @ @ @ @ into society .
This is a team effort from government and law enforcement .
San @ @ @ @ @ This issue won ’ t get solved overnight .
There has been zero effort of @ @ @ @ @ time as a student here .
When is local government going to help the homeless @

Downtown San Jose has become a mecca for homeless. Businesses struggle in downtown. The city has no resolution for the homeless problem.
Every time, I run for a workout in downtown, the smells of urine and marijuana fill the air. As a San Jose State University student. I feel unsafe walking to my car after class because I am afraid of a homeless person begging for money or jumping me because they are desperate. I understand there are resources available for the homeless. Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
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The city needs to try and get people off the streets and back into society. This is a team effort from government and law enforcement. San Jose is innovative city. This issue won’t get solved overnight. There has been zero effort of helping the homeless since my time as a student here. When is local government going to help the homeless?
Derrick Ow
Salinas


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Alamo man arrested in three Contra Costa County bank robberies

LAFAYETTE — An Alamo man has been arrested in the robberies of three Wells Fargo banks in central Conta Costa County this month , authorities said Friday .
Brendan Gray , 41 , was arrested at his home Thursday .
Lafayette police said in a release Friday that Gray was wanted in the Wednesday robbery of a Wells Fargo branch in the 3600 block of Mt .
Diablo Boulevard in Lafayette , the Wells Fargo branch on Moraga Way in Orinda on Feb. 12 and a Wells Fargo branch in Walnut Creek on Feb. 1 .
The total amount taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
In at least one of the robberies — in Orinda — Gray is suspected of giving a teller a note demanding money .
After the Lafayette robbery , authorities were able to identify a suspect vehicle which eventually led them to Gray .
He was arrested without incident and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on three counts of first degree robbery .
His bail is $ 300,000 .
The case was investigated by Lafayette , Danville , and Walnut Creek police and the Contra Costa County Sheriff ’ s Office .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ asked to call Lafayette police at 925-283-3680 or 925-299-3234 or email Sgt .
Rossberg at tross @ so.cccounty.us .

LAFAYETTE — An Alamo man has been arrested in the robberies of three Wells Fargo banks in central Conta Costa County this month, authorities said Friday.
Brendan Gray, 41, was arrested at his home Thursday.
Lafayette police said in a release Friday that Gray was wanted in the Wednesday robbery of a Wells Fargo branch in the 3600 block of Mt. Diablo Boulevard in Lafayette, the Wells Fargo branch on Moraga Way in Orinda on Feb. 12 and a Wells Fargo branch in Walnut Creek on Feb. 1.
The total amount taken in the robberies has not been released.
In at least one of the robberies — in Orinda — Gray is suspected of giving a teller a note demanding money.
After the Lafayette robbery, authorities were able to identify a suspect vehicle which eventually led them to Gray.
He was arrested without incident and booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on three counts of first degree robbery. His bail is $300,000.
The case was investigated by Lafayette, Danville, and Walnut Creek police and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office.
Anyone with information about the robberies is asked to call Lafayette police at 925-283-3680 or 925-299-3234 or email Sgt. Rossberg at tross@so.cccounty.us.
Staff writer Angela Ruggiero contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Private plane catches fire at Oakland airport

OAKLAND — A private plane caught fire at Oakland International Airport on Friday , but was quickly extinguished without disrupting @ @ @ @ @ Fire Department responded at 2:12 p.m. to the airport ’ s north field — the @ @ @ @ @ .
Firefighters found a small biplane in flames and put out the blaze within five @ @ @ @ @ Mike Zampa .
The cause of the fire is under investigation , Zampa said .
@ @ @ @ @ maintenance shop when the fire started , and was not near airport runways , he @ @ @ @ @ on the plane at the time , and no injuries were reported .

OAKLAND — A private plane caught fire at Oakland International Airport on Friday, but was quickly extinguished without disrupting airport operations.
The Oakland Fire Department responded at 2:12 p.m. to the airport’s north field — the area that serves private planes. Firefighters found a small biplane in flames and put out the blaze within five minutes, said airport spokesman Mike Zampa.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, Zampa said. The plane was in a maintenance shop when the fire started, and was not near airport runways, he said.
No one was on the plane at the time, and no injuries were reported.


mercurynews--2020-02-21--Bloomberg to release three women from NDAs

WASHINGTON — Mike Bloomberg said Friday he ’ d free three women from confidentiality agreements that bar them from speaking publicly about sexual harassment or discrimination suits filed against him over the last three decades .
The billionaire former mayor of New York also said his company , Bloomberg LP , will no longer use such agreements “ to resolve claims of sexual harassment or misconduct going forward.
” His remarks come after days of intense scrutiny over the treatment of women at the company he ’ s led for three decades , and amid pressure from Democratic presidential rival @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share their claims publicly .
Bloomberg didn ’ t automatically revoke the agreements , but told the women to contact the company if they would like to be released .
The three agreements he ’ s willing to open up relate specifically to comments he ’ s alleged to have made .
His company reportedly faced nearly 40 lawsuits involving 65 plaintiffs between 1996 and 2016 , though it ’ s unclear how many relate to sexual harassment or discrimination .
At Wednesday ’ s debate , Bloomberg called such nondisclosure agreements “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ didn ’ t like a joke I told.
” The remarks were viewed by some as out-of-touch with the post- # MeToo era , which has prompted far more serious scrutiny of sexual harassment and innuendo by men in the workplace .
Bloomberg is one of the country ’ s richest men , worth an estimated $ 60 billion .
It was the first time Bloomberg was truly put on the spot in an otherwise choreographed campaign , where he ’ s been promoting his message via television advertising and scripted speeches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voters .
Bloomberg said in a statement he ’ d done “ a lot of reflecting on this issue over the past few days.
” “ I recognize that NDAs , particularly when they are used in the context of sexual harassment and sexual assault , promote a culture of silence in the workplace and contribute to a culture of women not feeling safe or supported , ” it continued .
Bloomberg ’ s allies and campaign staff have defended him against allegations he is sexist or treats women poorly , and he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friendly workplace for women .
On Friday he said his company would undertake a review of its policies on equal pay and promotion , sexual harassment and discrimination and the use of “ other legal tools ” that prevent cultural change .
He also pledged to push policies if elected president that expand access to childcare and reproductive health and guarantee 12 weeks of paid leave .
“ I will be a leader whom women can trust , ” he said .

By Kathleen Ronayne | Associated Press
WASHINGTON — Mike Bloomberg said Friday he’d free three women from confidentiality agreements that bar them from speaking publicly about sexual harassment or discrimination suits filed against him over the last three decades.
The billionaire former mayor of New York also said his company, Bloomberg LP, will no longer use such agreements “to resolve claims of sexual harassment or misconduct going forward.”
His remarks come after days of intense scrutiny over the treatment of women at the company he’s led for three decades, and amid pressure from Democratic presidential rival Elizabeth Warren to allow the women to share their claims publicly. Bloomberg didn’t automatically revoke the agreements, but told the women to contact the company if they would like to be released.
The three agreements he’s willing to open up relate specifically to comments he’s alleged to have made. His company reportedly faced nearly 40 lawsuits involving 65 plaintiffs between 1996 and 2016, though it’s unclear how many relate to sexual harassment or discrimination.
At Wednesday’s debate, Bloomberg called such nondisclosure agreements “consensual” and said women who complained “didn’t like a joke I told.” The remarks were viewed by some as out-of-touch with the post-#MeToo era, which has prompted far more serious scrutiny of sexual harassment and innuendo by men in the workplace. Bloomberg is one of the country’s richest men, worth an estimated $60 billion.
It was the first time Bloomberg was truly put on the spot in an otherwise choreographed campaign, where he’s been promoting his message via television advertising and scripted speeches rather than debates and town halls with voters.
Bloomberg said in a statement he’d done “a lot of reflecting on this issue over the past few days.”
“I recognize that NDAs, particularly when they are used in the context of sexual harassment and sexual assault, promote a culture of silence in the workplace and contribute to a culture of women not feeling safe or supported,” it continued.
Bloomberg’s allies and campaign staff have defended him against allegations he is sexist or treats women poorly, and he’s touted his company as a friendly workplace for women.
On Friday he said his company would undertake a review of its policies on equal pay and promotion, sexual harassment and discrimination and the use of “other legal tools” that prevent cultural change. He also pledged to push policies if elected president that expand access to childcare and reproductive health and guarantee 12 weeks of paid leave.
“I will be a leader whom women can trust,” he said.