mercurynews--2020-03-20--Bay Area bridges go cash-free to contain coronavirus

The Bay Bridge and other crossings around the region are going cashless as part of efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus , officials said .
Starting at midnight Friday , cash toll booths will no longer be staffed , and drivers in those lanes will be expected to continue through them without stopping to pay , CalTrans and the Bay Area Toll Authority announced .
Nothing is changing for drivers who have FasTrak — you ’ ll still have your account charged the usual toll .
If you don ’ t have a FasTrak account , cameras will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you ’ ll be mailed a bill for the crossing .
It will come in an alarming “ Toll Violation Notice ” envelope , but don ’ t worry : the authority is suspending the usual fees , and you ’ ll only be charged for the toll .
Officials said the change came at Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s request to protect toll collectors and the drivers they come into contact with each day .
It will apply at the Antioch , Benicia-Martinez , Carquinez , Dumbarton , Richmond-San Rafael @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the Bay Bridge .
The Golden Gate Bridge has been cash-free since 2013 .
Traffic on those bridges has been down sharply since the Bay Area ’ s shelter-in-place order limited travel to essential trips earlier this week .
The Bay Bridge saw 42 percent fewer cars on Wednesday compared to a typical day , and traffic was down 62 percent on the Dumbarton Bridge .

The Bay Bridge and other crossings around the region are going cashless as part of efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus, officials said.
Starting at midnight Friday, cash toll booths will no longer be staffed, and drivers in those lanes will be expected to continue through them without stopping to pay, CalTrans and the Bay Area Toll Authority announced.
Nothing is changing for drivers who have FasTrak — you’ll still have your account charged the usual toll.
If you don’t have a FasTrak account, cameras will capture a photo of your license plate and you’ll be mailed a bill for the crossing. It will come in an alarming “Toll Violation Notice” envelope, but don’t worry: the authority is suspending the usual fees, and you’ll only be charged for the toll.
Officials said the change came at Gov. Gavin Newsom’s request to protect toll collectors and the drivers they come into contact with each day.
It will apply at the Antioch, Benicia-Martinez, Carquinez, Dumbarton, Richmond-San Rafael and San Mateo-Hayward bridges, as well as the Bay Bridge. The Golden Gate Bridge has been cash-free since 2013.
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The Bay Bridge saw 42 percent fewer cars on Wednesday compared to a typical day, and traffic was down 62 percent on the Dumbarton Bridge.


mercurynews--2020-03-20--Coronavirus: Yosemite National Park closes

Yosemite National Park closed on Friday afternoon due to the coronavirus pandemic .
“ Yosemite National Park is announcing modifications to operations at the request of the local health department , ” park officials said in a statement .
“ As of 3:00 pm today , Friday , March 20 , 2020 , Yosemite National Park is closed to all park visitors until further notice .
This closure will be enforced 24-hours a day/7-days a week and there will be no access permitted to Yosemite National Park.
” On Tuesday , the park ’ s concession company , Aramark , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Ahwahnee , Yosemite Lodge and the Wawona Hotel , until the end of this month .
Parks officials said then that all trails would remain open .
But Friday , they closed all trails and roads as well .
“ The health and safety of our visitors , employees , volunteers , and partners at Yosemite National Park is our number one priority , ” Friday ’ s statement from park officials said .
“ The National Park Service is working with the federal , state , and local authorities to closely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will notify the public when we resume full operations and provide updates on our website and social media channels.
” The decision came as the National Park Service also closed Alcatraz Island , Muir Woods National Monument and the Statue of Liberty in New York City on Monday , and the Washington Monument in Washington , D.C. , three days earlier , as the pandemic threatened to devastate America ’ s tourist industry .
State parks across California remain open , as do many other national parks , city and county parks .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and parks leaders are asking hikers to stay at least six feet apart and not to hike in groups .
Yosemite receives nearly 5 million visitors each year , although 75 % come to the park in the warmer months from May to October .
National parks rarely close .
Visitor centers at Grand Canyon National Park and Everglades National Park closed Tuesday , although they and most of America ’ s 400 national park units remain open .
Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias did close for more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ferguson Fire , a blaze that eventually blackened 96,000 acres , raged on the park ’ s western boundary .
But generally , the park remains open through rough weather , and even during occasional federal government shutdowns .
But the highly contagious coronavirus is challenging America ’ s national park system in historic ways .
As reports grew of tension between some park superintendents and Trump administration officials in Washington over whether to institute much broader closures , the leading group representing National Park Service retirees on Monday called for all facilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers into close contact with the public to be closed .
“ To suggest to the public that gathering at national park sites is acceptable when gathering at restaurants , theaters , libraries , and other public spaces is no longer safe is irresponsible to the visiting public and employees , ” said Phil Francis chair of the Coalition to Protect National Parks .
The coalition issued the request following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that gatherings of 50 people or larger be halted nationwide .
National parks are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities .
“ Decisions made about the health and safety of our federal workforce should not be political in nature , ” Francis said .
“ They should be made in the best interest of the health and well-being of our nation , particularly the most vulnerable .
We must take care of our federal employees and their families .
”

Yosemite National Park closed on Friday afternoon due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“Yosemite National Park is announcing modifications to operations at the request of the local health department,” park officials said in a statement. “As of 3:00 pm today, Friday, March 20, 2020, Yosemite National Park is closed to all park visitors until further notice. This closure will be enforced 24-hours a day/7-days a week and there will be no access permitted to Yosemite National Park.”
On Tuesday, the park’s concession company, Aramark, closed all hotels and restaurants, including the Ahwahnee, Yosemite Lodge and the Wawona Hotel, until the end of this month. Parks officials said then that all trails would remain open. But Friday, they closed all trails and roads as well.
Dr. Eric Sergienko, the public health officer for Mariposa County, said in an interview Friday that he sent a letter late Thursday to the park’s acting superintendent, Cecily Muldoon, recommending a full closure.
Because the park is federally owned, he said, he does not have authority order a closure. But he recommended it because many park restrooms were closed, making it difficult for people to wash their hands. And visitors were in close groups, the goveror issued a statewide shelter-in-place order Thursday, and the rural counties that surround the park have limited hospital facilities to handle a surge of COVID-19 cases, he noted.
“The concern I had was that if we did have it evolve, we would rapidly lose containment,” Sergienko said. He added that he doesn’t know how long the risk will be present, but that in China the pandemic has taken three months to play out.
Muldoon signed a closure order Friday that shuttered the famed park. It allows Yosemite employees and concession workers, some of whom live in the park, to enter and leave, however.
“The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners at Yosemite National Park is our number one priority,” Friday’s statement from park officials said.
The impact of the virus is the latest blow to surrounding counties, who depend on tourism as the lifeblood of their economy. They have struggled with two major fires, the Rim Fire in 2013 and the Ferguson Fire in 2018, which closed parts of the park.
“Everyone in the county was impacted by fires. We are no stranger to adversity,” said Rosemarie Smallcombe, a Marpiosa County Supervisor whose district includes Yosemite Valley. “Folks here are reaching out to neighbors to figure out how they can get through this. The park closure is a heavy blow. We won’t have the revenue from our hotel taxes, the restaurants are trying to survive, it ripples through the economy.”
Smallcombe said that after the hotels and restaurants in the park closed earlier this week, only a few facilities in the park were left open. Park workers were concerned about their safety and health officials in Mariposa County, a county with many older retirees that hasn’t yet had a case of COVID-19, were worried about visitors spreading the disease.
“What was happening was that there was concentration of folks in the few remaining open facilities — there were a bunch of people in the Village Store, for example, and people weren’t observing social distancing,” she said.
She urged visitors from the Bay Area and around the country to make plans to return to the park as soon as they could.
“I’m about as shell-shocked as everybody else,” she said. “This has been like a horrible dominoes game. We are just watching one thing after another fall.”
The decision came as the National Park Service also closed Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods National Monument and the Statue of Liberty in New York City on Monday, and the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., three days earlier, as the pandemic threatened to devastate America’s tourist industry.
State parks across California remain open, as do many other national parks, city and county parks. But most campgrounds and visitor centers are closed, and Bay Area parks leaders are asking hikers to stay at least six feet apart and not to hike in groups.
Yosemite receives nearly 5 million visitors each year, although 75% come to the park in the warmer months from May to October.
National parks rarely close. Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias did close for more than two weeks in 2018 when the Ferguson Fire, a blaze that eventually blackened 96,000 acres, raged on the park’s western boundary. But generally, the park remains open through rough weather, and even during occasional federal government shutdowns.
But the highly contagious coronavirus is challenging America’s national park system in historic ways.
As reports grew of tension between some park superintendents and Trump administration officials in Washington over whether to institute much broader closures, the leading group representing National Park Service retirees on Monday called for all facilities that bring national park rangers and other workers into close contact with the public to be closed.
“To suggest to the public that gathering at national park sites is acceptable when gathering at restaurants, theaters, libraries, and other public spaces is no longer safe is irresponsible to the visiting public and employees,” said Phil Francis chair of the Coalition to Protect National Parks.
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“Decisions made about the health and safety of our federal workforce should not be political in nature,” Francis said. “They should be made in the best interest of the health and well-being of our nation, particularly the most vulnerable. We must take care of our federal employees and their families.”


mercurynews--2020-03-20--Coronavirus and Bay Area farmers markets: What’s open this weekend for fresh produce

During this coronavirus crisis , farmers markets and agricultural producers are exempted from the “ shelter at home ” edict because they feed Californians .
“ We are happy that farmers markets have been deemed essential services , allowing for customers to shop for the best local produce available in a safe , stress-free environment , ” Gail Hayden , executive director of the California Farmers Market Association , said Friday in a statement .
“ It ’ s what our bodies and minds truly need during these trying times.
” In all cases , market organizers say food sampling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wear protective gloves and disinfectant will be available at the information booths .
They are reminding their vendors to maintain social-distancing space and customers to wash all produce and bags after each shopping excursion .
Here ’ s what will be open this weekend , according to the Urban Village Farmers Market Association , the Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association and the California Farmers Market Association .
NOTE : The weekend markets in Campbell , Concord , Danville , downtown Palo Alto , Pleasanton and San Jose ’ s Berryessa , Japantown and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alameda , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. , Haight Avenue and Webster Street Brentwood , 8 a.m. to noon , First and Oak streets Pinole , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. , Fernandez Avenue and Pear Street San Mateo , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m , temporarily moved to Hillsdale Mall , lower lot Santa Clara , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m , Jackson Street and Homestead Road Sunnyvale , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. , Murphy Avenue at Washington Union City , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. , Old Alvarado Park Vallejo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Georgia and Marin streets Fremont , Irvington , 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. , Bay Street & Trimboli Way Livermore , 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. , Third and J streets Martinez , 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. , Estudillo and Main streets Oakland/Montclair , 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. , La Salle and Moraga avenues

CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the photos on a mobile device
During this coronavirus crisis, farmers markets and agricultural producers are exempted from the “shelter at home” edict because they feed Californians.
“We are happy that farmers markets have been deemed essential services, allowing for
customers to shop for the best local produce available in a safe, stress-free environment,” Gail Hayden, executive director of the California Farmers Market Association, said Friday in a statement. “It’s what our bodies and minds truly need during these trying times.”
In all cases, market organizers say food sampling has been suspended, all vendors will wear protective gloves and disinfectant will be available at the information booths. They are reminding their vendors to maintain social-distancing space and customers to wash all produce and bags after each shopping excursion.
Here are the markets still operating, according to the Urban Village Farmers Market Association, the Pacific Coast Farmers Market Association, the California Farmers Market Association, the Berkeley Ecology Center, Champ Farmer Markets and the Agricultural Institute of Marin.
NOTE: The weekend markets in Campbell, Concord, Danville, downtown Palo Alto, Pleasanton and San Jose’s Berryessa, Japantown and Santa Teresa neighborhoods are temporarily closed.
OPEN TUESDAY
Berkeley, 2 to 6:30 p.m., Adeline and 63rd streets
OPEN WEDNESDAY
San Jose/Princeton Plaza, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1375 Blossom Hill Road
OPEN THURSDAY
Berkeley, 3 to 7 p.m., Shattuck Avenue at Vine Street
Marin/San Rafael, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Marin Civic Center
OPEN FRIDAY
Richmond, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Barrett Avenue at 25th Street
OPEN SATURDAY
Alameda, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Haight Avenue and Webster Street
Berkeley, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Center Street at Martin Luther King Jr. Way
Brentwood, 8 a.m. to noon, First and Oak streets
Castro Valley, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., BART station parking lot
Daly City, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Serramonte Center
Foster City, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, 1010 Metro Center Blvd.
Fremont/Niles, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Niles Depot
Hayward, 9 a.m. 1 p.m., Watkins Street between B and C streets
Morgan Hill, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Caltrain station
Oakland, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Grand Lake/Lake Park Boulevard
Pinole, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fernandez Avenue and Pear Street
San Jose/Cambrian Park Plaza, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 14900 Camden Ave.
San Jose/Rose Garden, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Lincoln High School lot, Dana Avenue
San Jose/Willow Glen, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, Willow Glen Elementary School
San Leandro, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bayfair Center
San Mateo, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, College of San Mateo
Santa Clara, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m, Jackson Street and Homestead Road
Saratoga, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., West Valley College parking lot
Sunnyvale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Murphy Avenue at Washington
Union City, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Old Alvarado Park
Vallejo, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Georgia and Marin streets
Walnut Creek, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Shadelands Business Park
OPEN SUNDAY
Alamo, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., 3157 Danville Blvd.
Belmont, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Caltrain parking lot
Cupertino, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Oaks center
Fremont, Irvington, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bay Street & Trimboli Way
Livermore, 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Third and J streets
Los Gatos, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Town Plaza Park
Marin/San Rafael, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Marin Civic Center
Martinez, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Estudillo and Main streets
Milpitas, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m, Great Mall Drive
Moraga, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Moraga Center
Mountain View, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Caltrain station
Newark, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., NewPark Mall
Oakland/Montclair, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., La Salle and Moraga avenues
Oakland/Temescal, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., North Oakland DMV lot, 5300 Claremont Ave.
Palo Alto, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., California Avenue
San Jose/Princeton Plaza, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 1375 Blossom Hill Road
San Jose/Alum Rock, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 57 N. White Road
San Jose/Evergreen, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Evergreen Village Square
San Jose/Blossom Hill, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Oakridge Mall


mercurynews--2020-03-20--PG&E, Gov. Newsom reach deal to settle utility’s bankruptcy amid wildfire woes

Gov .
Gavin Newsom announced Friday that he has reached a deal with PG & E that was crafted to dramatically transform the disgraced utility and potentially end a bankruptcy ushered in by the company ’ s wildfire-linked liabilities .
“ This is the end of business as usual for PG & E , ” Gov .
Newsom said in a prepared release .
It ’ s also possible that PG & E could be auctioned off and sold to the state of California if the company ’ s bankruptcy doesn ’ t conclude by June 30 .
The governor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ players with the state of California had to prod PG & E to undertake badly needed reforms and provide assistance to fire victims in the wake of a string of catastrophic and lethal wildfires in Northern California that were caused by PG & E .
“ Through California ’ s unprecedented intervention in the bankruptcy , we secured a totally transformed board and leadership structure for the company , real accountability tools to ensure safety and reliability and billions more in contributions from shareholders to ensure safety upgrades are achieved , ” Gov @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filed for a $ 51.69 billion bankruptcy in January 2019 , saying that its finances had buckled beneath a towering mountain of debts and wildfire-linked liabilities .
But numerous critics , including the governor , noted that PG & E ’ s financial quagmire was caused in large measure by its own blunders , including failed efforts to adequately maintain its aging and deteriorating electricity system .
PG & E ’ s maintenance mishaps began to be exposed more than a decade ago following a lethal explosion in San Bruno that was caused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s flawed record-keeping and shoddy maintenance , along with coddling by an inattentive state Public Utilities Commission .
“ We appreciate the governor ’ s statements in the Bankruptcy Court , ” PG & E Chief Executive Officer William Johnson said in a prepared release .
“ We now look to the California Public Utilities Commission to approve the bankruptcy plan through its established regulatory process.
” However , if the PUC and the federal bankruptcy court don ’ t approve PG & E ’ s plan to reorganize its finances and conclude @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the company could be sold .
“ In the unlikely event the reorganization plan is not confirmed , or PG & E does not exit Chapter 11 in a timely manner , an orderly process for a sale of the business to the state or another party will be commenced , ” PG & E said .
Among the key changes in the latest plan that now has the endorsement of the governor : –PG & E will cancel dividend payments to shareholders for roughly three years , which will amount to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
–The utility has committed to about $ 7.6 billion of shareholder assets to repay or support a refinancing of temporary utility debt .
–Savings of about $ 1.4 billion will be used to benefit ratepayers after certain bonds are restructured .
In addition , an array of oversight and regulatory tools will be put into place through the deal with Newsom .
Among these oversight provisions : –an independent monitor , selected by the state , to provide insight on PG & E progress with safety goals ahead of the company ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structure that prioritizes safety within the organization , particularly among the executives and PG & E ’ s board .
–new enforcement and oversight tools for the PUC .
–a process to speed up payments of the claims from wildfire victims .
–mechanisms to ensure PG & E undertakes necessary wildfire mitigation and safety investments .
The governor vowed that the state of California will continue to carefully scrutinize PG & E now that it will be easier to hold the utility accountable .
“ Because of these new tools , the state @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demanding total transformation even after the company emerges from bankruptcy , ” the governor said .
“ We aren ’ t taking our foot off the gas .
”

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Friday that he has reached a deal with PG&E that will dramatically transform the disgraced utility and potentially end a bankruptcy ushered in by the company’s wildfire-linked liabilities.
“This is the end of business as usual for PG&E,” Newsom said in a prepared release.
It’s also possible that PG&E could be auctioned off and sold to the state of California if the company’s bankruptcy doesn’t conclude by June 30.
The governor noted that his office and other key players had to prod PG&E to undertake badly needed reforms and provide assistance to fire victims in the wake of a string of catastrophic and lethal wildfires in Northern California that were caused by the utility.
“Through California’s unprecedented intervention in the bankruptcy, we secured a totally transformed board and leadership structure for the company, real accountability tools to ensure safety and reliability and billions more in contributions from shareholders to ensure safety upgrades are achieved,” Newsom said.
PG&E filed for a $51.69 billion bankruptcy in January 2019, saying that its finances had buckled beneath a towering mountain of debts and wildfire-linked liabilities.
But numerous critics, including the governor, noted that PG&E’s financial quagmire was caused in large measure by its own blunders, including failed efforts to adequately maintain its aging and deteriorating electricity system.
PG&E’s maintenance mishaps began to be exposed a decade ago following a lethal explosion in San Bruno that was caused by a combination of the utility’s flawed record-keeping and shoddy maintenance, along with coddling by an inattentive state Public Utilities Commission.
“We appreciate the governor’s statements in the Bankruptcy Court,” PG&E Chief Executive Officer William Johnson said in a prepared release. “We now look to the California Public Utilities Commission to approve the bankruptcy plan through its established regulatory process.”
However, if the PUC and the federal bankruptcy court don’t approve PG&E’s plan to reorganize its finances and conclude the company’s Chapter 11 proceeding, the company could be sold.
“In the unlikely event the reorganization plan is not confirmed, or PG&E does not exit Chapter 11 in a timely manner, an orderly process for a sale of the business to the state or another party will be commenced,” PG&E said.
Among the key changes in the latest plan that now has the endorsement of the governor:
— PG&E will cancel dividend payments to shareholders for roughly three years, which will amount to an equity contribution of $4 billion.
— The utility has committed to about $7.6 billion of shareholder assets to repay or support a refinancing of temporary utility debt.
— Savings of about $1.4 billion will be used to benefit ratepayers after certain bonds are restructured.
In addition, oversight and regulatory tools will be put into place. Among these oversight provisions:
— An independent monitor, selected by the state, to provide insight on PG&E progress with safety goals ahead of the company’s emergence from bankruptcy.
— A governance structure that prioritizes safety within the organization, particularly among the executives and PG&E’s board.
— New enforcement and oversight tools for the PUC.
— A process to speed up payments of the claims from wildfire victims.
— Mechanisms to ensure PG&E undertakes necessary wildfire mitigation and safety investments.
“The governor has been consistent in his dedication to the creation of a new PG&E, and this agreement achieves that,” said state Sen. Jerry Hill, a long-time and harsh critic of PG&E. “The governor kept his commitment to creation of a safe PG&E.”
A consumer group, The Utility Reform Network, gave its backing to the settlement.
“It’s an important step forward to holding PG&E accountable,” said Mark Toney, TURN executive director. “There are consequences if PG&E does not live up to its promises,”
However, TURN is concerned about some issues that weren’t addressed by the settlement.
“We want the PUC to prohibit PG&E from seeking ratepayer recovery to help for any of the wildfires from 2015, 2017, and 2018,” Toney said.
The state of California will continue to carefully scrutinize PG&E now that it will be easier to hold the utility accountable, Newsom vowed.
“Because of these new tools, the state will have the legal authority to continue demanding total transformation even after the company emerges from bankruptcy,” the governor said. “We aren’t taking our foot off the gas.”


mercurynews--2020-03-20--‘Bachelor’ star Colton Underwood tests positive for COVID-19

LOS ANGELES – Colton Underwood , the former star of “ The Bachelor , ” has tested positive for COVID-19 .
The reality star and former NFL player shared the news on Friday that he tested positive for the coronavirus .
In sharing his test results on social media , he encouraged his two million Instagram followers followers to self quarantine and practice social distancing .
“ I tested positive and I have been following all of the social distancing rules since last week , ” Underwood posted .
“ My symptoms started a few days ago , I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
For anyone out there that is hesitant to self quarantine…please do yourself and your loved ones a favor and stay home .
We will all beat this and come out stronger on the other side .
I ’ ll keep you posted , Love y ’ all.
” Underwood posted a video , giving details on his symptoms and diagnosis , and pushed forward the critical responsibility of young people taking coronavirus seriously .
“ There ’ s a lot of information going out in the news and the media right now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s for the elderly or young people don ’ t want to do this , ” Underwood said .
“ I want to let you guys know , I ’ m 28 , I consider myself pretty healthy , I work out regularly , I eat healthy , and I became symptomatic a few days ago , got my test results back today and they are positive .
And it ’ s been kicking my a- , just to put it very bluntly.
” Unlike other public figures who tested positive , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like NBA star Kevin Durant and actor Idris Elba — Underwood explained his symptoms in great detail , sharing that he can ’ t walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath , and can not stand up to go to the bathroom without needing to sit because he experiences extreme exhaustion .
“ The reason I ’ m sharing this is not to cause fear of panic , but to enoucrage you guys to stay home , ” the reality personality said .
“ Do your part.
” With @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is the latest influence to encourage his followers to isolate and self quarantine .
Yesterday , after the Surgeon General called for social media influencers to spread the word to their millennial fans , Kylie Jenner posted about the severity of coronavirus to her 166 million followers .
Underwood appeared on Season 14 of “ The Bachelorette , ” and then became the lead of the 23rd season of “ The Bachelor ” in 2019 , ultimately choosing contestant Cassie Randolph as his partner .
The two TV personalities are still together , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said he was self-quarantined at Randolph ’ s family ’ s home .
Underwood is the first known star from Bachelor Nation to test positive for COVID-19 , but “ The Bachelor ” franchise has been rocked by the coronavirus crisis .
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The new season of “ The Bachelorette , ” which was slated to premiere in May , was just about to head into production when the pandemic began to spread .
One week ago , production on “ The Bachelorette ” was halted , and sources tell Variety filming had not yet begun .
As of today , ABC and Warner Bros. Television have not commented on the status of the upcoming season , which will star franchise alum Clare Crawley , though it appears nearly impossible that the season would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given the production shut-down .

By Elizabeth Wagmeister | Variety
LOS ANGELES – Colton Underwood, the former star of “The Bachelor,” has tested positive for COVID-19.
The reality star and former NFL player shared the news on Friday that he tested positive for the coronavirus. In sharing his test results on social media, he encouraged his two million Instagram followers followers to self quarantine and practice social distancing.
“I tested positive and I have been following all of the social distancing rules since last week,” Underwood posted. “My symptoms started a few days ago, I was tested and just received my results today. For anyone out there that is hesitant to self quarantine…please do yourself and your loved ones a favor and stay home. We will all beat this and come out stronger on the other side. I’ll keep you posted, Love y’all.”
Underwood posted a video, giving details on his symptoms and diagnosis, and pushed forward the critical responsibility of young people taking coronavirus seriously.
“There’s a lot of information going out in the news and the media right now about the coronavirus, saying it’s for the elderly or young people don’t want to do this,” Underwood said. “I want to let you guys know, I’m 28, I consider myself pretty healthy, I work out regularly, I eat healthy, and I became symptomatic a few days ago, got my test results back today and they are positive. And it’s been kicking my a-, just to put it very bluntly.”
Unlike other public figures who tested positive, but say they have not displayed symptoms — like NBA star Kevin Durant and actor Idris Elba — Underwood explained his symptoms in great detail, sharing that he can’t walk up a flight of stairs without being out of breath, and cannot stand up to go to the bathroom without needing to sit because he experiences extreme exhaustion.
“The reason I’m sharing this is not to cause fear of panic, but to enoucrage you guys to stay home,” the reality personality said. “Do your part.”
With a large social media following, Underwood is the latest influence to encourage his followers to isolate and self quarantine. Yesterday, after the Surgeon General called for social media influencers to spread the word to their millennial fans, Kylie Jenner posted about the severity of coronavirus to her 166 million followers.
Underwood appeared on Season 14 of “The Bachelorette,” and then became the lead of the 23rd season of “The Bachelor” in 2019, ultimately choosing contestant Cassie Randolph as his partner. The two TV personalities are still together, and in his Instagram video, Underwood said he was self-quarantined at Randolph’s family’s home.
Underwood is the first known star from Bachelor Nation to test positive for COVID-19, but “The Bachelor” franchise has been rocked by the coronavirus crisis.
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Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge The new season of “The Bachelorette,” which was slated to premiere in May, was just about to head into production when the pandemic began to spread. One week ago, production on “The Bachelorette” was halted, and sources tell Variety filming had not yet begun.
As of today, ABC and Warner Bros. Television have not commented on the status of the upcoming season, which will star franchise alum Clare Crawley, though it appears nearly impossible that the season would be ready to air this spring, given the production shut-down.


mercurynews--2020-03-20--Drive-ins having a moment in the time of social distancing

NEW YORK — The drive-in theater , long a dwindling nostalgia act in a multiplex world , is experiencing a momentary return to prominence .
With nearly all of the nation ’ s movie theaters shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic , some drive-in owners think they ’ re in a unique position to give moviegoers a chance to do something out of the house while keeping distance from others .
This weekend , some drive-ins aren ’ t the only show in town .
They ’ re the only show in the country .
The Showboat Drive-In Theater in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drive outside Houston , normally sees ticket sales go down about 40 % on a weekend when they don ’ t have any new movies .
Last weekend , they saw a 40 % increase , says the theater ’ s owner , Andrew Thomas .
Usually open weekends , Thomas has kept screenings going through the week .
“ Obviously this isn ’ t the way you ’ d want it to occur , but I ’ m excited for the idea that there may be a new generation of people that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drive-in theater and — I was going to say catch the bug , ” said Thomas , laughing .
“ Maybe some other turn of phrase.
” There are just over 300 drive-ins left in the country .
They constitute a small , oft-forgotten flicker in today ’ s movie ecosystem that hardly competes with the megawatt glare of the megaplex and the nation ’ s 5,500 indoor theaters .
But through decades of disruption and change in American life , they have managed to survive .
They ’ ve somehow clung to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find themselves , for a brief moment anyway , uniquely suited to today .
Not many drive-ins are open .
It ’ s a seasonal business to begin with , with many drive-ins not planning to open until April .
John Vincent , president of the United Drive-in Theater Owner Association , estimates about 5-10 % were open as of last weekend , and some of those are closing due to the pandemic .
In states like California and New York , restrictions on movement and gathering are being ramped up that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other parts of the country , Vincent suspects the drive-in ’ s window is already closing .
“ We ’ d love the drive-ins to shine but this is probably not the moment , ” said Vincent , who owns Wellfleet Cinemas on Cape Cod .
However long it lasts , the drive-in is for now , in certain parts of the country , one of the only remaining refuges of public entertainment — of getting out the house to do something while still staying inside your car .
At the Paramount Drive-in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McBride figured a drive-in movie was one of the only ways they could responsibly celebrate their anniversary .
“ We were like , what can we do ?
Everything ’ s closed , ” said Forrest before a showing of “ Onward ” on Thursday night .
“ We were like , ‘ Well , a drive-in theater is kind of like a self-quarantined movie date . '
” Aman Patel , a 25-year-old from Los Angeles , attended his first drive-in with his roommate and friends .
“ I always wanted to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Drive-ins aren ’ t without their own virus concerns .
Concessions and restrooms , in particular , still pose issues .
All owners interviewed for this article said they were spacing out cars , reworking how customers could order food ( sometimes via text messages ) and limiting restroom occupancy .
Chris Curtis , owner of the Blue Moon Drive-in in Guin , Alabama , said he was doing something that has long been anathema to drive-ins : allowing outside food and drink in .
“ In fact , we suggest it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook page .
Like indoor theaters , drive-ins make their money almost entirely by concessions .
“ We ’ re just trying to pay the power bill and the water bill and get through this , and give the community something to do at a time when there ’ s not a whole lot to do , ” said Curtis , who ’ s owned the Blue Moon for 24 years .
“ It ’ s not about the movies anymore .
It ’ s about having something to do.
” Curtis is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up this weekend , given the responses he ’ s gotten .
To keep the Blue Moon uncrowded , Curtis launched online ticketing for the first time .
“ I don ’ t want people driving from long distances just to see that we ’ re sold out , ” he said .
There are few movies left for drive-ins to play .
For now , they can still screen recent releases like “ Onward ” and “ The Hunt , ” but those movies are already available on various digital platforms as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the virus .
Earlier this week , all of the nation ’ s movie chains shuttered following federal guidelines that urged against gatherings of more than 10 people .
The studios have cleared out their release calendars into May .
Those postponements have extended all the way to major summer releases , including Marvel ’ s “ Black Widow ” ( previously slated for May 1 ) .
Eating into spring releases will be hard enough for drive-ins , but summer is when they sell most of their tickets .
Owners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open in the coming weeks , they could potentially play older films ( though those cost almost as much as new releases to play ) .
“ We don ’ t know how long we ’ re going to have to live this way , ” said Thomas .
“ Everybody ’ s wrestling with what it is going to be like in the middle of the summer when normally everyone is high-fiving and having a good time because the box office is going crazy .
It ’ s when you go : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business.
” Drive-ins could also improvise in other ways .
Lisa Boaz , who with her husband has operated the Monetta Drive-in in Monetta , South Carolina , since 1999 , said they ’ ve been contacted by churches interested in using the drive-in for Sunday services .
Parishioners would listen to sermons from their cars through the drive-in ’ s FM-radio transmitters .
“ We ’ re kind of playing it by ear right now , ” said Boaz .
Boaz said they had opened the Monetta earlier in March , hopeful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stacks of souvenir cups with “ 2020 season ” printed on them .
She ’ s not sure how long the Monetta will stay open , and — like other owners — said she would be quick to follow any state-ordered shelter-in-place guidelines .
Deciding just to open this weekend , she said , was difficult .
And she ’ s worried that other drive-ins won ’ t be able to withstand a few dark months .
• “ I don ’ t believe I will have to drive DoorDash anymore : ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MLB emergency pay plan • Coronavirus : Newsom ’ s stay-at-home order differs from the Bay Area ’ s shelter-in-place rules .
Now what happens ?
But so long as it ’ s safe , Boaz appreciates the irony that in the year 2020 , the best — and in many cases only — way to see a movie outside the house is at the drive-in .
The pandemic hasn ’ t proven the supremacy of streaming as much as it ’ s shown how indomitable the urge is to spend a night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kind of nice that we ’ re getting a little bit of extra attention .
Maybe people don ’ t want to stay inside as much as they thought they did , ” said Boaz .
“ The old ways are the best ways .
”

By Jake Coyle | Associated Press
NEW YORK — The drive-in theater, long a dwindling nostalgia act in a multiplex world, is experiencing a momentary return to prominence.
With nearly all of the nation’s movie theaters shuttered due to the coronavirus pandemic, some drive-in owners think they’re in a unique position to give moviegoers a chance to do something out of the house while keeping distance from others. This weekend, some drive-ins aren’t the only show in town. They’re the only show in the country.
The Showboat Drive-In Theater in Hockley, Texas, about a 30-minute drive outside Houston, normally sees ticket sales go down about 40% on a weekend when they don’t have any new movies. Last weekend, they saw a 40% increase, says the theater’s owner, Andrew Thomas. Usually open weekends, Thomas has kept screenings going through the week.
“Obviously this isn’t the way you’d want it to occur, but I’m excited for the idea that there may be a new generation of people that will get to experience going to a drive-in theater and — I was going to say catch the bug,” said Thomas, laughing. “Maybe some other turn of phrase.”
There are just over 300 drive-ins left in the country. They constitute a small, oft-forgotten flicker in today’s movie ecosystem that hardly competes with the megawatt glare of the megaplex and the nation’s 5,500 indoor theaters. But through decades of disruption and change in American life, they have managed to survive. They’ve somehow clung to life as relics of past Americana only to find themselves, for a brief moment anyway, uniquely suited to today.
Not many drive-ins are open. It’s a seasonal business to begin with, with many drive-ins not planning to open until April. John Vincent, president of the United Drive-in Theater Owner Association, estimates about 5-10% were open as of last weekend, and some of those are closing due to the pandemic. In states like California and New York, restrictions on movement and gathering are being ramped up that mandate closures. As infections rise in other parts of the country, Vincent suspects the drive-in’s window is already closing.
“We’d love the drive-ins to shine but this is probably not the moment,” said Vincent, who owns Wellfleet Cinemas on Cape Cod.
However long it lasts, the drive-in is for now, in certain parts of the country, one of the only remaining refuges of public entertainment — of getting out the house to do something while still staying inside your car. At the Paramount Drive-in near Los Angeles, Forrest and Erin McBride figured a drive-in movie was one of the only ways they could responsibly celebrate their anniversary.
“We were like, what can we do? Everything’s closed,” said Forrest before a showing of “Onward” on Thursday night. “We were like, ‘Well, a drive-in theater is kind of like a self-quarantined movie date.'”
Aman Patel, a 25-year-old from Los Angeles, attended his first drive-in with his roommate and friends. “I always wanted to do it,” said Patel.
Drive-ins aren’t without their own virus concerns. Concessions and restrooms, in particular, still pose issues. All owners interviewed for this article said they were spacing out cars, reworking how customers could order food (sometimes via text messages) and limiting restroom occupancy.
Chris Curtis, owner of the Blue Moon Drive-in in Guin, Alabama, said he was doing something that has long been anathema to drive-ins: allowing outside food and drink in. “In fact, we suggest it,” reads the Blue Moon’s Facebook page. Like indoor theaters, drive-ins make their money almost entirely by concessions.
“We’re just trying to pay the power bill and the water bill and get through this, and give the community something to do at a time when there’s not a whole lot to do,” said Curtis, who’s owned the Blue Moon for 24 years. “It’s not about the movies anymore. It’s about having something to do.”
Curtis is concerned that too many people could show up this weekend, given the responses he’s gotten. To keep the Blue Moon uncrowded, Curtis launched online ticketing for the first time. “I don’t want people driving from long distances just to see that we’re sold out,” he said.
There are few movies left for drive-ins to play. For now, they can still screen recent releases like “Onward” and “The Hunt,” but those movies are already available on various digital platforms as studios have funneled their films to homes due to the virus. Earlier this week, all of the nation’s movie chains shuttered following federal guidelines that urged against gatherings of more than 10 people. The studios have cleared out their release calendars into May.
Those postponements have extended all the way to major summer releases, including Marvel’s “Black Widow” (previously slated for May 1). Eating into spring releases will be hard enough for drive-ins, but summer is when they sell most of their tickets. Owners say that if they manage to remain open in the coming weeks, they could potentially play older films (though those cost almost as much as new releases to play).
“We don’t know how long we’re going to have to live this way,” said Thomas. “Everybody’s wrestling with what it is going to be like in the middle of the summer when normally everyone is high-fiving and having a good time because the box office is going crazy. It’s when you go: This is why I got into this business.”
Drive-ins could also improvise in other ways. Lisa Boaz, who with her husband has operated the Monetta Drive-in in Monetta, South Carolina, since 1999, said they’ve been contacted by churches interested in using the drive-in for Sunday services. Parishioners would listen to sermons from their cars through the drive-in’s FM-radio transmitters.
“We’re kind of playing it by ear right now,” said Boaz.
Boaz said they had opened the Monetta earlier in March, hopeful for a good year. They have stacks of souvenir cups with “2020 season” printed on them. She’s not sure how long the Monetta will stay open, and — like other owners — said she would be quick to follow any state-ordered shelter-in-place guidelines. Deciding just to open this weekend, she said, was difficult. And she’s worried that other drive-ins won’t be able to withstand a few dark months.
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Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge But so long as it’s safe, Boaz appreciates the irony that in the year 2020, the best — and in many cases only — way to see a movie outside the house is at the drive-in. The pandemic hasn’t proven the supremacy of streaming as much as it’s shown how indomitable the urge is to spend a night at the movies.
“It is kind of nice that we’re getting a little bit of extra attention. Maybe people don’t want to stay inside as much as they thought they did,” said Boaz. “The old ways are the best ways.”


mercurynews--2020-03-20--“I don’t believe I will have to drive DoorDash anymore:” A’s minor leaguer reacts to MLB emergency p

“I don’t believe I will have to drive DoorDash anymore:” A’s minor leaguer reacts to MLB emergency pay plan

Peter Bayer didn ’ t expect his Tweet to get much attention .
In the hours following the suspension of the baseball season , the A ’ s minor league pitcher downloaded the DoorDash app and ventured into the Phoenix streets to deliver food .
He made $ 62 in three hours , and he posted about it on his Twitter account .
Some of his teammates , inspired by Bayer ’ s quick thinking , signed up to drive for Uber and deliver Postmates .
Pandemic or not , most minor league players need to supplement their income .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ MLB announced it would pay minor league players a lump sum for the remainder of spring training .
“ The short answer is I don ’ t believe I will have to drive DoorDash anymore , ” he said .
Because of the low pay he earns playing minor league ball , Bayer , 26 , has grown accustomed to juggling jobs .
Bayer says he made $ 325 after taxes per week playing for the Class A Stockton Ports .
The league ’ s temporary compensation plan should grant him $ 400 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ league baseball ’ s original opening day date .
Taking up odd jobs is not only customary , but a necessity .
Pre-taxed minor league salaries range from $ 400 per week in rookie short-season A leagues to $ 502 per week for players on triple-A teams .
Minor leaguers don ’ t get paid during the offseason .
For context , the minimum salary for a a major league player is $ 563,500 .
The A ’ s did not return requests for comment on Bayer ’ s decision to take a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consider the coronavirus risk much .
“ I don ’ t think that ( the A ’ s ) would really have an issue with it , ” Bayer said .
“ I mean I hate to bring it up this way , but I think like kind of any minor league player that didn ’ t really receive a signing bonus is probably working an offseason job , ” Bayer said .
Before Thursday ’ s notice , minor league baseball players stirred with frustration online .
A petition spread across the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay , for some acknowledgement .
MLB ’ s announcement said it would “ remain in communication ” with all 30 clubs to determine an industry-wide plan for minor league compensation after April 9 .
Players aren ’ t waiting on the league to secure their finances amid uncertainty .
Bayer sets an earnings goal for himself : to make at least $ 400 every week .
How he gets to that figure in any normal season requires some complex navigation .
A full season traveling the country , pitching for the Stockton @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his side jobs training clients , both at FAST Baseball in his hometown Denver and instructing Driveline Baseball online courses .
FAST owner Jason Hirsh gives Bayer free rein of the facility to squeeze in his team-mandated pitching regimen .
Free of charge , to save some cash .
A ’ s minor league infielder Ryan Gridley , 24 , launched this business at the start of 2020 .
Named ProCo+ , it connects pro baseball and softball players and trainers with amateur players who pay for mentoring and feedback through text , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gridley say ProCo+ has doubled its subscriptions since the shutdown .
“ We had guys join the program who wanted to make money in the spare time they had , ” Gridley said , adding that professional players recognize the opportunity to use their insights to help themselves financially , as well as help the next generation of players .
“ And now , you have a ton of time , waiting on the next season.
” • MLB to compensate minor leaguers until April 8 .
Then what ?
• A ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out first pitch on Opening Day Until MLB creates an expansive compensation plan that covers the indefinite season suspension , that wait might be daunting .
Money was already tight .
Bayer suggested , that the league might provide facility resources so that players can continue their baseball regimens in place of or in addition to any financial support .
With their typical facilities potentially shutting down , Bayer bought some weights and workout equipment and set it up in his parents ’ house as a back-up plan .
“ I hate to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring issue to pay , but now there ’ s just been so many people talking about it that maybe something does get done , ” Bayer said .
“ It ’ s shedding light on a lot of issues that we have .
”

Peter Bayer didn’t expect his Tweet to get much attention.
In the hours following the suspension of the baseball season, the A’s minor league pitcher downloaded the DoorDash app and ventured into the Phoenix streets to deliver food.
He made $62 in three hours, and he posted about it on his Twitter account. Some of his teammates, inspired by Bayer’s quick thinking, signed up to drive for Uber and deliver Postmates. Pandemic or not, most minor league players need to supplement their income.
They got some relief Thursday when the MLB announced it would pay minor league players a lump sum for the remainder of spring training.
Bayer’s reaction?
“The short answer is I don’t believe I will have to drive DoorDash anymore,” he said.
Because of the low pay he earns playing minor league ball, Bayer, 26, has grown accustomed to juggling jobs. Bayer says he made $325 after taxes per week playing for the Class A Stockton Ports. The league’s temporary compensation plan should grant him $400 a week until April 9, minor league baseball’s original opening day date.
Taking up odd jobs is not only customary, but a necessity. Pre-taxed minor league salaries range from $400 per week in rookie short-season A leagues to $502 per week for players on triple-A teams. Minor leaguers don’t get paid during the offseason. For context, the minimum salary for a a major league player is $563,500.
The A’s did not return requests for comment on Bayer’s decision to take a high-risk job. Bayer didn’t consider the coronavirus risk much.
“I don’t think that (the A’s) would really have an issue with it,” Bayer said.
A Tweet detailing his adventure went viral.
Who knows what’s going to happen with the MILB/pay so I decided to start driving with Door Dash tonight. $62 in 3 hours… not too bad. 🤷♂ — Peter Bayer (@PeterBayer47) March 13, 2020
“I mean I hate to bring it up this way, but I think like kind of any minor league player that didn’t really receive a signing bonus is probably working an offseason job,” Bayer said.
Before Thursday’s notice, minor league baseball players stirred with frustration online. A petition spread across the social media community. Players shouted for pay, for some acknowledgement.
What about your minor league players? https://t.co/K8JxDA5YDg — Mitch Horacek (@mhoracek14) March 16, 2020
Not complaining, but I just want to lay this out for baseball fans who don’t know what it really takes… #InvestInTheFuture pic.twitter.com/FKmsR8A7EB — JJ Schwarz (@usetheschwarz22) March 16, 2020
MLB’s announcement said it would “remain in communication” with all 30 clubs to determine an industry-wide plan for minor league compensation after April 9. Players aren’t waiting on the league to secure their finances amid uncertainty.
Bayer sets an earnings goal for himself: to make at least $400 every week.
How he gets to that figure in any normal season requires some complex navigation. A full season traveling the country, pitching for the Stockton Ports sandwiches the hours Bayer spends at his side jobs training clients, both at FAST Baseball in his hometown Denver and instructing Driveline Baseball online courses. FAST owner Jason Hirsh gives Bayer free rein of the facility to squeeze in his team-mandated pitching regimen. Free of charge, to save some cash.
A’s minor league infielder Ryan Gridley, 24, launched this business at the start of 2020. Named ProCo+, it connects pro baseball and softball players and trainers with amateur players who pay for mentoring and feedback through text, video and FaceTime on the application. Gridley say ProCo+ has doubled its subscriptions since the shutdown.
“We had guys join the program who wanted to make money in the spare time they had,” Gridley said, adding that professional players recognize the opportunity to use their insights to help themselves financially, as well as help the next generation of players.
“And now, you have a ton of time, waiting on the next season.”
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“I hate to use a global pandemic like this to bring issue to pay, but now there’s just been so many people talking about it that maybe something does get done,” Bayer said. “It’s shedding light on a lot of issues that we have.”


mercurynews--2020-03-21--Letter: Contra Costa Libraries should suspend this for now

Contra Costa libraries are all closed till further notice due to COVID-19 .
I found out yesterday , when I @ @ @ @ @ book I had on hold , that my library card expired .
Apparently library cards @ @ @ @ @ .
The only way to renew your card is to go in to the library @ @ @ @ @ currently possible , it would be nice if libraries would suspend automatic card expirations until @ @ @ @ @ : Lock down the healthy or protect the vulnerable ?
• Letter : Remove the @ @ @ @ @ staying home is easy If ever there was a time people need access to the @ @ @ @ @ .
I can ’ t even contact anyone at the library to complain .
Submit @ @ @ @ @ via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Libraries should suspend
automatic card expirations
Contra Costa libraries are all closed till further notice due to COVID-19. I found out yesterday, when I tried to check out a book I had on hold, that my library card expired.
Apparently library cards expire automatically every three years. The only way to renew your card is to go in to the library.
Since that is not currently possible, it would be nice if libraries would suspend automatic card expirations until they reopen.
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Candace Cahill
Concord
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-03-21--Letter: Let’s all support hospital and social workers, small businesses

The Bay Area ’ s decision to implement the “ shelter-in-place order ” to stop the spread of the coronavirus will have a significant impact on businesses , hospitals and social services agencies .
While some businesses must remain open , others are required to close .
This means that there will be a loss of revenue for many small businesses that could result in closure .
Hospital staff are treating the sick and working in a high-risk environment .
Social services agencies like the Santa Clara County Department of Family and Children ’ s Services have essential workers who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the potential for exposure to the virus .
• Letter : Lock down the healthy or protect the vulnerable ?
• Letter : Remove the burden of paying bills and staying home is easy • Letter : Students strained by many effects of campus closures As a community , we must make an effort to support small businesses by making online purchases or picking up take-out and acknowledge hospital staff and social workers for their contribution to keeping our community safe during an unsettling time .
Submit your letter to the editor via @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Editor

Let’s all back hospital and
social workers, businesses
The Bay Area’s decision to implement the “shelter-in-place order” to stop the spread of the coronavirus will have a significant impact on businesses, hospitals and social services agencies.
While some businesses must remain open, others are required to close. This means that there will be a loss of revenue for many small businesses that could result in closure.
Hospital staff are treating the sick and working in a high-risk environment.
Social services agencies like the Santa Clara County Department of Family and Children’s Services have essential workers who must continue to serve vulnerable populations despite the potential for exposure to the virus.
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Caitlyn Rodriguez
San Jose
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-03-21--Horoscopes March 21, 2020: Rosie O’Donnell, time is on your side.

Happy Birthday : Keep a low profile , have an open mind and study every situation with curiosity .
Time is on your side , so don ’ t feel the need to race through life .
Let others do as they please , and you will avoid getting trapped in someone else ’ s journey .
Now is the time to reflect and reorganize , not the time to barrel ahead without regard for consequences .
Your numbers are 7 , 15 , 23 , 29 , 32 , 37 , 48 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intentions to yourself this year .
Follow through with your plans without drawing attention , and you will avoid interference and opposition .
Act decisively , but with discretion , in order to reach your goal on time .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Show sensitivity and thoughtfulness when reaching out to others .
Your compassion will be the determining factor when you are vying for support or hands-on help .
Love is on the rise , and time spent with someone special will enhance your relationship .
4 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Don ’ t fold under pressure .
Offer to do only what ’ s possible , or you will end up looking incompetent .
Concentrate on your strengths and ability to be unique .
Be secretive about your private life and personal opinions .
2 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Take the initiative , and use your knowledge , experience and know-how to get ahead .
Your interest in different cultures , beliefs and ways of doing things will encourage popularity .
A romantic encounter will lift your spirits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Take your time .
Don ’ t feel you have to make a snap decision because someone else does .
Consider your options , the expenses involved and whether or not you are willing to commit .
When in doubt , slow down and reconsider alternatives .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Share your feelings , personal intentions and plans .
Visit a place that opens your eyes to a different way of life or doing things .
Expand your options @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lay ahead of you .
A positive change is heading your way .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Assess your situation , relationships and long-term plans .
Taking the time to unveil what ’ s important to you will ensure that you make decisions based on your happiness , not what someone is pressuring you to do .
3 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Expand your mind , and explore new places .
A lifestyle change will help you achieve inner peace and a lifetime goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wish list over the years .
It ’ s time to follow your heart and pursue your dreams .
5 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Don ’ t exaggerate , or you ’ ll be corrected .
Say less , and it will be easier to navigate your way through a tough situation .
You may crave attention , but consider the cost involved before you decide to step into the limelight .
2 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Put unique plans to impress someone in motion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your living situation or lifestyle .
Love , romance and adventure are featured .
Live in the moment , and enjoy what life has to offer .
4 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Say nothing if you aren ’ t sure where you stand or how you feel .
You don ’ t want to give someone the wrong impression or start something you can not finish .
Mull over what you want , and come up with a workable solution .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change .
Do whatever it takes to become a valuable commodity .
Exercise your right to use your skills , experience and knowledge to make a difference .
Romance is on the rise , and physical improvements will boost your ego .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are aggressive , dependable and charming .
You are curious and insightful .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Jace Norman, 20; Matthew Broderick, 58; Rosie O’Donnell, 58; Gary Oldman, 62.
Happy Birthday: Keep a low profile, have an open mind and study every situation with curiosity. Time is on your side, so don’t feel the need to race through life. Let others do as they please, and you will avoid getting trapped in someone else’s journey. Now is the time to reflect and reorganize, not the time to barrel ahead without regard for consequences. Your numbers are 7, 15, 23, 29, 32, 37, 48.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Keep your ideas, thoughts and intentions to yourself this year. Follow through with your plans without drawing attention, and you will avoid interference and opposition. Act decisively, but with discretion, in order to reach your goal on time. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Show sensitivity and thoughtfulness when reaching out to others. Your compassion will be the determining factor when you are vying for support or hands-on help. Love is on the rise, and time spent with someone special will enhance your relationship. 4 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Don’t fold under pressure. Offer to do only what’s possible, or you will end up looking incompetent. Concentrate on your strengths and ability to be unique. Be secretive about your private life and personal opinions. 2 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take the initiative, and use your knowledge, experience and know-how to get ahead. Your interest in different cultures, beliefs and ways of doing things will encourage popularity. A romantic encounter will lift your spirits. A partnership looks promising. 5 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take your time. Don’t feel you have to make a snap decision because someone else does. Consider your options, the expenses involved and whether or not you are willing to commit. When in doubt, slow down and reconsider alternatives. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Share your feelings, personal intentions and plans. Visit a place that opens your eyes to a different way of life or doing things. Expand your options, your mind and the possibilities that lay ahead of you. A positive change is heading your way. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Assess your situation, relationships and long-term plans. Taking the time to unveil what’s important to you will ensure that you make decisions based on your happiness, not what someone is pressuring you to do. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Expand your mind, and explore new places. A lifestyle change will help you achieve inner peace and a lifetime goal that has been a constant on your wish list over the years. It’s time to follow your heart and pursue your dreams. 5 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t exaggerate, or you’ll be corrected. Say less, and it will be easier to navigate your way through a tough situation. You may crave attention, but consider the cost involved before you decide to step into the limelight. 2 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Put unique plans to impress someone in motion. Make a promise that will improve your living situation or lifestyle. Love, romance and adventure are featured. Live in the moment, and enjoy what life has to offer. 4 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Say nothing if you aren’t sure where you stand or how you feel. You don’t want to give someone the wrong impression or start something you cannot finish. Mull over what you want, and come up with a workable solution. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Emotional matters will lead to personal change. Do whatever it takes to become a valuable commodity. Exercise your right to use your skills, experience and knowledge to make a difference. Romance is on the rise, and physical improvements will boost your ego. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are aggressive, dependable and charming. You are curious and insightful.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-03-21--Bridge: March 21, 2020

Bridge: March 21, 2020

“ Simple Saturday ” columns are meant to help aspiring players improve technique and develop logical thinking .
This week ’ s deals have focused on defenders ’ second-hand play .
Beginners are taught to play “ second hand low , ” a tendency with a logical basis .
Today ’ s South plays at four hearts after showing a strong hand with a second-round jump-shift .
West finds the good opening lead of a trump .
Declarer wins in dummy and leads the singleton spade .
How should East defend ?
This may seem like a time to ignore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ East should play low .
East won ’ t lose his ace if he ducks : South can ruff at most two spades in dummy and will still have a spade to lose .
If East plays low , South will probably finesse with the jack .
West wins and leads another trump , and East will eventually get two spade tricks and a club .
If East grabs the first spade , South can set up his spades with one ruff and score game .
Consider with care whether to play “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ S A 10 6 4 H 4 2 D Q J 5 3 C A 10 8 .
Your partner opens one heart , you bid one spade , he rebids two hearts and you try 2NT .
Partner then bids three diamonds .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Partner ’ s bidding suggests six hearts , four diamonds and minimum opening values .
Your hand has become quite strong .
Your diamond honors are “ working , ” and your aces will cover some of partner ’ s black-suit losers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four hearts or five diamonds .

“Simple Saturday” columns are meant to help aspiring players improve technique and develop logical thinking.
This week’s deals have focused on defenders’ second-hand play. Beginners are taught to play “second hand low,” a tendency with a logical basis.
Today’s South plays at four hearts after showing a strong hand with a second-round jump-shift. West finds the good opening lead of a trump. Declarer wins in dummy and leads the singleton spade. How should East defend?
SPADE LOSER
This may seem like a time to ignore “second hand low,” but East should play low. East won’t lose his ace if he ducks: South can ruff at most two spades in dummy and will still have a spade to lose.
If East plays low, South will probably finesse with the jack. West wins and leads another trump, and East will eventually get two spade tricks and a club. If East grabs the first spade, South can set up his spades with one ruff and score game.
Consider with care whether to play “second hand low.”
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S A 10 6 4 H 4 2 D Q J 5 3 C A 10 8. Your partner opens one heart, you bid one spade, he rebids two hearts and you try 2NT. Partner then bids three diamonds. What do you say?
ANSWER: Partner’s bidding suggests six hearts, four diamonds and minimum opening values. Your hand has become quite strong. Your diamond honors are “working,” and your aces will cover some of partner’s black-suit losers. Make sure of game. Bid four hearts or five diamonds.
South dealer
Both sides vulnerable
NORTH
S 8
H K J 5
D 10 8 7 4
C Q 9 6 3 2
WEST
S Q 7 2
H 8 7 6
D 9 6 2
C K 7 5 4
EAST
S A 10 6 4
H 4 2
D Q J 5 3
C A 10 8
SOUTH
S K J 9 5 3
H A Q 10 9 3
D A K
C J
South West North East
1 S Pass 1 NT Pass
3 H Pass 4 H All Pass
Opening lead — H 8
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-03-21--Word Game: March 21, 2020

Word Game: March 21, 2020

Can you find 49 or more words in BOUNDARY ?
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 — BOUNDARY (BOUNDARY: BOWN-duh-ree: A border or limit.)
Average mark 33 words
Time limit 45 minutes
Can you find 49 or more words in BOUNDARY? The list will be published Monday.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — CHAUVINISM cash chain chasm chin china chum cumin
human animus vain vanish vicuna visa inch incus scam scan scum sham shim shin
shiva shun simian such sumac main manic mash mavin mica mini minus much munch
mush music musician
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--2020-03-21--Ask Amy: My wife doesn’t know the truth about my gym friend

DEAR READERS : Every year , I step away from the Ask Amy column for two weeks in order to work on other writing projects .
I ’ ll be back with fresh Q and A next week .
DEAR AMY : I have been married for 27 years .
I work out with a few ladies at a local gym .
I have become close with one of the ladies there ; she has been married for 17 years .
Lady Friend tells me intimate things about her sex life with her husband .
Lady Friend does not feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have confided in Lady Friend about my marriage , too , but I don ’ t go into detail about my sex life .
My wife knows I am friends with this lady , though I don ’ t share every detail of this friendship with her .
Lady Friend and I send text messages back and forth , sometimes all day long .
• Ask Amy : My friend suddenly ditched me for a mysterious daily meeting • Ask Amy : I can guess people ’ s ethnicity and it seems to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do these men at church seem afraid of me ?
• Ask Amy : I ’ m convinced that women don ’ t understand how to drive • Ask Amy : I don ’ t like the color of his teddy bears Lady Friend takes an interest in a few other men at the gym , and I know she loves the attention .
Lady Friend has hinted about meeting me outside the gym .
Is it wrong for me to continue being friends with this lady since we are both married ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ think this lady likes me as more than just a friend ?
DEAR ANONYMOUS : My question to you is , do you spend any time , any time at all , on the elliptical machine ?
Or is your relationship with your “ Lady Friend ” the only way you elevate your heart rate during these so-called workouts ?
To answer your question , I don ’ t know if Lady Friend sees you as more than a friend .
So , let ’ s talk about you .
You and Lady @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This is cheesy and sleazy , and you know it ’ s wrong .
So , interrupt this particular circuit .
Recommit to your marriage and your workouts .
DEAR AMY : Nine years ago , my daughter and her husband asked me to move with them into a new home .
I had been widowed for five years and they felt I should not be alone .
( I am now 84 and in pretty good health . )
We all got along very well until about six months ago , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things changed .
Nothing was ever said openly .
They purchased a lake house recently and spend weekends at that home .
I am not invited ( nor do I want to be ) .
There are no children involved — just the three of us .
I do have a little dog that he seems to hate , but I can not give the dog away .
Lately I get the feeling that my son-in-law is not happy with our situation .
He barely speaks to me and mumbles “ good morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contribute to the household , pay rent , clean house , wash their clothes , take care of their dog , etc .
I have spent thousands of dollars on this house and paid a third of the purchase price .
Should I speak to my daughter about this ?
She and I get along very well .
I feel she knows there is friction here but has not said anything to me about it .
Should I look for another place to live ?
I don ’ t really want to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to .
DEAR CHALLENGED : First this : Your arrangement seems to have worked well for everyone for nine successful and peaceful years .
Unfortunately , each person in the household seems extremely averse to bringing up a topic — or even asking a question — that might result in an uncomfortable moment or two , and so you have spent the last six months engaged in an extremely uncomfortable silent standoff .
It is human nature to avoid discomfort , but you all have taken it to a new level .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — you helped pay for the house and pay rent and expenses .
Sit down with them ( if you can ’ t manage to face him , speak with your daughter ) .
Say , “ I feel a lot of tension lately ; can you tell me what is bothering you ?
It would be good to clear the air .
I miss the way we all used to get along.
” This might have started over a very trivial household matter .
Or it might not have anything to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marriage or health difficulties of theirs .
Maintain an open attitude and try not to be defensive .
Read “ Difficult Conversations : How to Discuss What Matters Most , ” written by members of the Harvard Negotiation Project ( 2010 , Penguin ) You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or Facebook .

DEAR READERS: Every year, I step away from the Ask Amy column for two weeks in order to work on other writing projects.
Enjoy today’s “Best Of” column (from 2010).
I’ll be back with fresh Q and A next week.
DEAR AMY: I have been married for 27 years. I work out with a few ladies at a local gym. I have become close with one of the ladies there; she has been married for 17 years.
Lady Friend tells me intimate things about her sex life with her husband. Lady Friend does not feel loved or appreciated by him. I have confided in Lady Friend about my marriage, too, but I don’t go into detail about my sex life.
My wife knows I am friends with this lady, though I don’t share every detail of this friendship with her. Lady Friend and I send text messages back and forth, sometimes all day long.
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Is it wrong for me to continue being friends with this lady since we are both married? Should I back off? Do you think this lady likes me as more than just a friend?
Anonymous
DEAR ANONYMOUS: My question to you is, do you spend any time, any time at all, on the elliptical machine? Or is your relationship with your “Lady Friend” the only way you elevate your heart rate during these so-called workouts?
To answer your question, I don’t know if Lady Friend sees you as more than a friend. So, let’s talk about you.
You and Lady Friend are acting like true gym rats. This is cheesy and sleazy, and you know it’s wrong. So, interrupt this particular circuit. Recommit to your marriage and your workouts.
September 2010
DEAR AMY: Nine years ago, my daughter and her husband asked me to move with them into a new home.
I had been widowed for five years and they felt I should not be alone. (I am now 84 and in pretty good health.)
We all got along very well until about six months ago, but I don’t know why things changed. Nothing was ever said openly. They purchased a lake house recently and spend weekends at that home. I am not invited (nor do I want to be). There are no children involved — just the three of us. I do have a little dog that he seems to hate, but I cannot give the dog away.
Lately I get the feeling that my son-in-law is not happy with our situation. He barely speaks to me and mumbles “good morning” or “good night.”
I contribute to the household, pay rent, clean house, wash their clothes, take care of their dog, etc. I have spent thousands of dollars on this house and paid a third of the purchase price.
Should I speak to my daughter about this? She and I get along very well. I feel she knows there is friction here but has not said anything to me about it. Should I look for another place to live? I don’t really want to live alone but I will if I have to.
Challenged
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR CHALLENGED: First this: Your arrangement seems to have worked well for everyone for nine successful and peaceful years.
Unfortunately, each person in the household seems extremely averse to bringing up a topic — or even asking a question — that might result in an uncomfortable moment or two, and so you have spent the last six months engaged in an extremely uncomfortable silent standoff. It is human nature to avoid discomfort, but you all have taken it to a new level.
You are a full partner in this household — you helped pay for the house and pay rent and expenses.
Sit down with them (if you can’t manage to face him, speak with your daughter). Say, “I feel a lot of tension lately; can you tell me what is bothering you? It would be good to clear the air. I miss the way we all used to get along.” This might have started over a very trivial household matter. Or it might not have anything to do with you — but with work, marriage or health difficulties of theirs.
Maintain an open attitude and try not to be defensive. Read “Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most,” written by members of the Harvard Negotiation Project (2010, Penguin)
January 2010
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--2020-03-21--Letter: Measure C yes votes show Alameda County’s values

Measure C landed on the ballot after a largely grassroots effort , led by dedicated community volunteers , spearheaded an @ @ @ @ @ Alameda County residents .
This unprecedented action indicates how critical this is for our families @ @ @ @ @ health care is an important part of our well-being .
This is why we must @ @ @ @ @ As of Wednesday , 286,956 of the ballots voted Yes on Measure C. That matters @ @ @ @ @ down the healthy or protect the vulnerable ?
• Letter : Remove the burden of @ @ @ @ @ is easy • Letter : Students strained by many effects of campus closures This is @ @ @ @ @ community , which prioritizes children ’ s well-being .
Let ’ s celebrate a healthy @ @ @ @ @ to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Measure C yes votes show
Alameda County’s values
Measure C landed on the ballot after a largely grassroots effort, led by dedicated community volunteers, spearheaded an outreach and education campaign to Alameda County residents. This unprecedented action indicates how critical this is for our families.
Child care and pediatric health care is an important part of our well-being. This is why we must look at the numbers. As of Wednesday, 286,956 of the ballots voted Yes on Measure C. That matters.
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Clarissa Doutherd
Oakland
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-03-21--Harriette Cole: Her boyfriend’s odor fills the room and drives people away

DEAR HARRIETTE : One of my friends told me about this guy that she has been dating for a while .
She really likes his company and how much of a gentleman he is .
The only downside is that he smells .
I asked if he had any religious restrictions to washing , and she said he doesn ’ t .
She says his odor is so bad , it fills up a room and people avoid them .
It sounded a bit extreme , but now she ’ s saying that it ’ s hard to be near @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be self-conscious .
She worries that she smells bad when she ’ s around him .
This is a bit rough , but now that I think about it , how do you tell a person they smell bad in a nice way ?
Is there any way my friend can nicely tell her date about his body odor ?
What to Say DEAR WHAT TO SAY : One of the steps of intimacy is figuring out how to address tough subjects with each other .
Hygiene is one of those extremely touchy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time — and I hope this doesn ’ t sound sexist — is that women can be positive influences on men in relationships in this way .
Sometimes when men have been single for a long time , they have not paid close attention to things like body odor .
Being in a relationship makes that a glaring concern .
• Harriette Cole : Should she insist he tell his family why they broke up ?
• Harriette Cole : How can I make my friends pay attention to the presidential race ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ suddenly want me to change my hair color ?
• Harriette Cole : Is it offensive to give things up for Lent if I ’ m not Catholic ?
Your friend should tell her boyfriend that she has noticed that he sometimes has a strong scent .
She can ask him what products he uses to bathe and potentially recommend or even give him products that may be helpful .
Your friend should know , too , that beyond religious concerns , sometimes people smell like the food that they eat .
Depending @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be exuding from his pores .
That requires a completely different level of engagement to address .
But basic hygiene is a good start .
Chances are , he will be more mindful of bathing if she brings it up to him .
DEAR HARRIETTE : A former employee of mine is getting married .
I have known about this for about a year .
Naturally , I expected to be invited .
Well , I just learned that most of the members of my staff who worked with her were indeed invited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have checked my mail every day for a couple of weeks , and I ’ ve received nothing .
Should I check in with her to make sure it wasn ’ t an oversight ?
I don ’ t want to make waves , but I really can ’ t believe that she wouldn ’ t have invited me .
DEAR PASSED OVER : Resist the urge to ask your former employee if you were invited to her wedding .
As much as it stings right now , trust that you do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenging than it is .
The chopping block for invitation lists is serious and mostly has to do with budget .
Couples make tough decisions as they whittle down their lists .
Perhaps this woman invited only former colleagues who were very close to her .
Perhaps it was an oversight .
Whatever the case may be , let her deal with it later rather than you bringing it up .
To the best of your ability , forgive her for her omission , too .
If you truly care about her , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do not hold a grudge .
It ’ s likely that lots of folks she cares about weren ’ t invited .
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: One of my friends told me about this guy that she has been dating for a while. She really likes his company and how much of a gentleman he is. The only downside is that he smells. I asked if he had any religious restrictions to washing, and she said he doesn’t.
She says his odor is so bad, it fills up a room and people avoid them. It sounded a bit extreme, but now she’s saying that it’s hard to be near him, and she is starting to be self-conscious. She worries that she smells bad when she’s around him.
This is a bit rough, but now that I think about it, how do you tell a person they smell bad in a nice way? Is there any way my friend can nicely tell her date about his body odor?
What to Say
DEAR WHAT TO SAY: One of the steps of intimacy is figuring out how to address tough subjects with each other. Hygiene is one of those extremely touchy subjects.
What I have seen over time — and I hope this doesn’t sound sexist — is that women can be positive influences on men in relationships in this way. Sometimes when men have been single for a long time, they have not paid close attention to things like body odor. Being in a relationship makes that a glaring concern.
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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 Your friend should tell her boyfriend that she has noticed that he sometimes has a strong scent. She can ask him what products he uses to bathe and potentially recommend or even give him products that may be helpful.
Your friend should know, too, that beyond religious concerns, sometimes people smell like the food that they eat. Depending on his diet, the smell may be exuding from his pores. That requires a completely different level of engagement to address. But basic hygiene is a good start. Chances are, he will be more mindful of bathing if she brings it up to him.
DEAR HARRIETTE: A former employee of mine is getting married. I have known about this for about a year. Naturally, I expected to be invited.
Well, I just learned that most of the members of my staff who worked with her were indeed invited, but I was not. I have checked my mail every day for a couple of weeks, and I’ve received nothing.
Should I check in with her to make sure it wasn’t an oversight? I don’t want to make waves, but I really can’t believe that she wouldn’t have invited me.
Passed Over
DEAR PASSED OVER: Resist the urge to ask your former employee if you were invited to her wedding.
As much as it stings right now, trust that you do not want to make her life any more challenging than it is.
The chopping block for invitation lists is serious and mostly has to do with budget. Couples make tough decisions as they whittle down their lists. Perhaps this woman invited only former colleagues who were very close to her. Perhaps it was an oversight.
Whatever the case may be, let her deal with it later rather than you bringing it up.
To the best of your ability, forgive her for her omission, too. If you truly care about her, send her a gift anyway, and do not hold a grudge. It’s likely that lots of folks she cares about weren’t invited.
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.