mercurynews--2020-04-24--Two San Francisco women accused of using COVID-19 threat as weapon during store robbery

SAN FRANCISCO — Two San Francisco women have been charged in federal court with robbing a Walgreens and coughing on store staff while yelling , “ We have COVID , ” prosecutors announced Friday afternoon .
Carmelita Barela , 36 , and Rosetta Shabazz , 32 , were charged with robbery affecting interstate commerce , which carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence and a $ 250,000 fine .
The charges , unsealed Friday , allege that the two robbed a Walgreens near Civic Center on April 6 .
Prosecutors allege the two entered a store without masks , and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Shabazz began coughing without covering her mouth .
The manager told them that if they were sick , they should leave the store .
“ Instead , Shabazz walked over to Barela and both defendants began to cough audibly while taking merchandise off the shelves and placing it into their bags .
The manager told the defendants to leave the store , to which they responded by saying , ‘ We have COVID , ' ” federal prosecutors said in a news release .
The news release doesn ’ t say if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for COVID-19 .
Both defendants were arrested April 23 , and Shabazz has been released to home confinement .
Barela ’ s next court date is set for April 27 .
“ It is an unfortunate reality that there will be those in our community who try to take advantage of the current pandemic to prey on people ’ s fear of contracting COVID-19 , ” U.S. Attorney DAvid L. Anderson said in a written statement .
“ While many in our community can remain safe by sheltering in place , store managers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world for our benefit .
They don ’ t deserve to be threatened and robbed .
Everyone suffers from a crime like this .
”

SAN FRANCISCO — Two San Francisco women have been charged in federal court with robbing a Walgreens and coughing on store staff while yelling, “We have COVID,” prosecutors announced Friday afternoon.
Carmelita Barela, 36, and Rosetta Shabazz, 32, were charged with robbery affecting interstate commerce, which carries a maximum 20-year prison sentence and a $250,000 fine. The charges, unsealed Friday, allege that the two robbed a Walgreens near Civic Center on April 6.
Prosecutors allege the two entered a store without masks, and that when a manager offered to help them, Shabazz began coughing without covering her mouth. The manager told them that if they were sick, they should leave the store.
“Instead, Shabazz walked over to Barela and both defendants began to cough audibly while taking merchandise off the shelves and placing it into their bags. The manager told the defendants to leave the store, to which they responded by saying, ‘We have COVID,'” federal prosecutors said in a news release.
The news release doesn’t say if either Shabazz or Barela actually tested positive for COVID-19.
Both defendants were arrested April 23, and Shabazz has been released to home confinement. Barela’s next court date is set for April 27.
“It is an unfortunate reality that there will be those in our community who try to take advantage of the current pandemic to prey on people’s fear of contracting COVID-19,” U.S. Attorney DAvid L. Anderson said in a written statement. “While many in our community can remain safe by sheltering in place, store managers and clerks are putting themselves out into the world for our benefit. They don’t deserve to be threatened and robbed. Everyone suffers from a crime like this.”


mercurynews--2020-04-24--Former FBI agent arrested near East Bay home on bribery allegations

A former FBI man who served more than 20 years as a special agent was arrested by federal authorities Friday near his Lafayette home after authorities said he accepted bribes for information .
Babak Broumand , 53 , of Lafayette , is suspected of accepting more than $ 200,000 in cash bribes and gifts , authorities said .
In exchange , they said , he gave out what U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Nicola Hanna said was “ sensitive law enforcement information to a lawyer with ties to Armenian organized crime.
” He was charged in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one count of conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official , authorities said .
Special agents with the FBI and the Office of the Inspector General made the arrest , authorities said .
Broumand is expected to make his first court appearance in federal court in San Francisco on Monday via phone from a San Francisco jail cell .
Authorities said the complaint alleges a scheme in which the lawyer made regular bribe payments and purchased gifts for Broumand while the latter was an FBI agent assigned to the San Francisco Field @ @ @ @ @ @ @ security matters and the development of confidential sources , authorities said .
The scheme is alleged to have started in 2015 and continued through most of 2017 .
Authorities said Broumand accepted approximately $ 10,000 in bribe payments per month .
The lawyer suspected of paying him , whom authorities did not identify other than as “ Cooperating Witness 1 ” , became a licensed attorney in 2016 , authorities said .
The complaint outlines cash deposits to several bank accounts , as well as gifts that included hotels , transportation and escort @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , authorities said .
According to an affidavit , “ Broumand and ( Cooperating Witness 1 ) conspired and agreed that Broumand would perform official acts and omit to do acts , query law enforcement databases , provide CW1 with non-public law enforcement sensitive information and protection , and assist CW1 in CW1 ’ s efforts to evade detection by law enforcement.
” Authorities said most of the payments were done in cash but that one payment was a $ 30,000 cashier ’ s check made payable to Love Bugs — a hair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wife .
Broumand is suspected of using the money as part of down payment on a $ 1.3 million vacation home near Lake Tahoe , authorities said .
The bribery scheme started when the lawyer told Broumand about some of his illegal activity and asked Broumand if he was interested in doing “ something on the side ” to earn money by checking the FBI database to see if he was being investigated , the complaint alleged .
Authorities said Broumand told the lawyer he had been the subject of a credit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would only be accessible if somebody had searched for the lawyer ’ s name in an FBI database .
Authorities said the lawyer later asked Broumand to look at the FBI database for details about Levon Termendzhyan , an Armenian organized crime figure for whom the lawyer had worked .
That search revealed an FBI investigation in Los Angeles .
Broumand also is accused of later doing database searches on about 10 to 20 names associated with people with whom the lawyer wanted to do business , authorities said .
Authorities said Broumand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one person who later was arrested in a health care fraud case .
The complaint also alleges that Broumand obstructed an FBI investigation into Felix Cisneros Jr. , a special agent in with the Department of Homeland Security whom authorities said had ties to Termendzhyan .
A jury convicted Termendzhyan , also known as Lev Aslan Dermen , in federal court in Utah last month of charges related to a $ 1 billion renewable fuel tax credit fraud scheme .
Authorities believe Broumand engaged in structured cash deposits to conceal the cash bribes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bribe payments and lice salon business on his federal tax returns , made false statements to the FBI and made false statements on loan applications .
He faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison if convicted .

A former FBI man who served more than 20 years as a special agent was arrested by federal authorities Friday near his Lafayette home after authorities said he accepted bribes for information.
Babak Broumand, 53, of Lafayette, is suspected of accepting more than $200,000 in cash bribes and gifts, authorities said. In exchange, they said, he gave out what U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California Nicola Hanna said was “sensitive law enforcement information to a lawyer with ties to Armenian organized crime.”
He was charged in a U.S. District Court in Los Angeles with one count of conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official, authorities said.
Special agents with the FBI and the Office of the Inspector General made the arrest, authorities said. Broumand is expected to make his first court appearance in federal court in San Francisco on Monday via phone from a San Francisco jail cell.
Authorities said the complaint alleges a scheme in which the lawyer made regular bribe payments and purchased gifts for Broumand while the latter was an FBI agent assigned to the San Francisco Field Office. Broumand was working on national security matters and the development of confidential sources, authorities said.
The scheme is alleged to have started in 2015 and continued through most of 2017. Authorities said Broumand accepted approximately $10,000 in bribe payments per month. The lawyer suspected of paying him, whom authorities did not identify other than as “Cooperating Witness 1”, became a licensed attorney in 2016, authorities said.
The complaint outlines cash deposits to several bank accounts, as well as gifts that included hotels, transportation and escort services that totaled well over $200,000, authorities said.
According to an affidavit, “Broumand and (Cooperating Witness 1) conspired and agreed that Broumand would perform official acts and omit to do acts, query law enforcement databases, provide CW1 with non-public law enforcement sensitive information and protection, and assist CW1 in CW1’s efforts to evade detection by law enforcement.”
Authorities said most of the payments were done in cash but that one payment was a $30,000 cashier’s check made payable to Love Bugs — a hair lice treatment company that Broumand owned with his wife. Broumand is suspected of using the money as part of down payment on a $1.3 million vacation home near Lake Tahoe, authorities said.
The bribery scheme started when the lawyer told Broumand about some of his illegal activity and asked Broumand if he was interested in doing “something on the side” to earn money by checking the FBI database to see if he was being investigated , the complaint alleged. Authorities said Broumand told the lawyer he had been the subject of a credit card fraud investigation, information they said would only be accessible if somebody had searched for the lawyer’s name in an FBI database.
Authorities said the lawyer later asked Broumand to look at the FBI database for details about Levon Termendzhyan, an Armenian organized crime figure for whom the lawyer had worked. That search revealed an FBI investigation in Los Angeles.
Broumand also is accused of later doing database searches on about 10 to 20 names associated with people with whom the lawyer wanted to do business, authorities said. Authorities said Broumand warned the lawyer to stay away from one person who later was arrested in a health care fraud case.
The complaint also alleges that Broumand obstructed an FBI investigation into Felix Cisneros Jr., a special agent in with the Department of Homeland Security whom authorities said had ties to Termendzhyan. A jury convicted Termendzhyan, also known as Lev Aslan Dermen, in federal court in Utah last month of charges related to a $1 billion renewable fuel tax credit fraud scheme.
Authorities believe Broumand engaged in structured cash deposits to conceal the cash bribes, failed to report income from the bribe payments and lice salon business on his federal tax returns, made false statements to the FBI and made false statements on loan applications.
He faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison if convicted.


mercurynews--2020-04-24--Coronavirus: This summer’s California State Fair has been canceled — first time since World War II

Forget the blue ribbons .
The livestock exhibits .
The monorail ride .
The midway games .
The wine garden .
And the desperate quest for shade or a spot under the misting machines .
Spurred by coronavirus concerns , the Cal Expo board on Friday announced the cancellation of the 2020 California State Fair , which had been scheduled for July 17-Aug. 2 in Sacramento .
“ While we had remained hopeful that the CA State Fair & Food Festival would be able to continue our 166-year tradition this summer of showcasing the best of California and entertaining the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s clear the impact of COVID-19 will continue to be felt for the foreseeable future and that large gatherings should be postponed at this time , ” the board said in a statement .
According to the Sacramento Bee , it ’ s the first time the fair hasn ’ t been held since World War II .
Last year ’ s fair drew more than 600,000 visitors .
Officials noted that the Cal Expo state fairgrounds venue has played a crucial role during this health crisis by serving as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ providing space for emergency isolation trailers for homeless individuals who have been exposed or infected to the virus .
• California ’ s State Fair , a century and a half of history , no butter cows During a normal year , Cal Expo hosts about 200 events and employs 800 seasonal workers , the board said .
“ Our staff is working diligently on a strategy to safely reopen when appropriate and we look forward to the time when we can all gather again safely to celebrate the great things Californians have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” the statement said .

Forget the blue ribbons. The livestock exhibits. The monorail ride. The midway games. The wine garden. And the desperate quest for shade or a spot under the misting machines.
Spurred by coronavirus concerns, the Cal Expo board on Friday announced the cancellation of the 2020 California State Fair, which had been scheduled for July 17-Aug. 2 in Sacramento.
“While we had remained hopeful that the CA State Fair & Food Festival would be able to continue our 166-year tradition this summer of showcasing the best of California and entertaining the state’s residents and families, it’s clear the impact of COVID-19 will continue to be felt for the foreseeable future and that large gatherings should be postponed at this time,” the board said in a statement.
According to the Sacramento Bee, it’s the first time the fair hasn’t been held since World War II. Last year’s fair drew more than 600,000 visitors.
Officials noted that the Cal Expo state fairgrounds venue has played a crucial role during this health crisis by serving as a drive-through testing site, as well as providing space for emergency isolation trailers for homeless individuals who have been exposed to or infected by the virus.
Related Articles Lifestyle | California’s State Fair, a century and a half of history, no butter cows
California’s State Fair, a century and a half of history, no butter cows Lifestyle | 5 oddest California State Fair attractions During a normal year, Cal Expo hosts about 200 events and employs 800 seasonal workers, the board said.
“Our staff is working diligently on a strategy to safely reopen when appropriate and we look forward to the time when we can all gather again safely to celebrate the great things Californians have done and will do in the future,” the statement said.


mercurynews--2020-04-25--Potential Day 3 targets for the Raiders

Potential Day 3 targets for the Raiders

It ’ s impossible to know who the Raiders will add Saturday as the NFL draft draws to a close , but it ’ s likely the way prospective candidates performed in video conferencing will have a lot to do with it .
All three of Friday ’ s picks — Kentucky running back Lynn Bowden Jr. , South Carolina wide receiver Bryan Edwards and Clemson linebacker Tanner Muse — had impressive zoom interviews that helped coach Jon Gruden and general manager Jon Gruden determine they would be worthy additions to the 2020 Raiders .
Bowden said he felt after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Raiders , one that actually began at the NFL scouting combine in February .
It was then that Gruden put Bowden on the board for a test of his mental acuity .
“ Jon did a little mini install , gave him all the Raider verbiage , ” Mayock said .
“ Jon grilled him and he spat all of our information right back at us .
He understood all the concepts .
He walked out of the room and we were like , ` That ’ s a Raider .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ looking for .
We did the same thing with Bryan Edwards on Zoom .
Tanner Muse knocked his zoommeeting out of the park .
He played safety and we questioned him for an hour on linebacker fits and he knew every one of them.
” The mental gymnastics give Mayock hope that whenever the Raiders actually get together as a team when the coronavirus pandemic subsides , the newcomers will grasp their new roles quickly .
“ The three guys we drafted today , we fully expect whether it ’ s Aug. 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whenever we see them , we think they ’ re going to get up to speed immediately.
” The Raiders felt the same way about their Day 3 haul a year ago , which included three players that were major contributors — defensive end Maxx Crosby of Eastern Michigan ( fourth round , No .
106 overall ) , tight end Foster Moreau ( fourth round , No .
137 ) and wide receiver Hunter Renfrow ( fifth round , No .
149 ) .
Barring trades , the Raiders will have two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Nos .
121 and 139 , and a fifth-round selection at No .
172 .
A look at some potential targets as the seven-round draft concludes with an emphasis on edge rushers , offensive linemen and cornerbacks : DE Curtis Weaver , Boise State : Not an impressive body at 6-2 , 265 but plays with high effort and production .
Had 13 1/2 sacks and 18 1/2 tackles for loss .
DE Bradley Anae , Utah : Three–year starter had 13 sacks and 14 tackles for losses as a senior at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ high-effort pass rusher .
G-T John Simpson , Clemson : There ’ s always room for another Clemson Tiger .
Especially one who is 6-4 , 321 pounds , is a power blocker and has the potential to get even bigger .
CB Troy Pride Jr. , Notre Dame : At 5-11 , 193 , Pride needs a lot of work on cornerback fundamentals but has track makeup speed making him a worthwhile late-round risk .
CB Darnay Holmes , UCLA : Holmes ( 5-11 , 195 ) checks all the boxes in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t a natural ball-hawk when passes are in flight .
G Netane Mute , Fresno State : Grades out as a potential first- through third-round pick at 6-3 , 315 in terms of power and skill but available late because of Lisfranc and Achilles injuries that nearly wiped out his last two seasons .
• Raiders catch up with Ruggs , reach for Arnette • Mike Mayock on taking Damon Arnette : “ We don ’ t feel , at all , like it was a reach ” T Ben Bartch , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : At 6-6 , 309 , the Division III sleeper has the frame to get much bigger and was impressive after not playing offensive line until 2018 .
CB Amik Robertson , Louisiana Tech : Small at 5-8 , 187 but has competitive fire the Raiders love and a nose for the ball could stick with someone as a slot corner .
QB Anthony Gordon , Washington State : City College of San Francisco and Terra Nova product passed for more than 5,000 yards in Air Raid offense and Gruden would love to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
G Michael Onwenu , Michigan : Just look at the size — 6-4 , 344 pounds .
The Raiders love their linemen huge .
A mauler fit for a power running attack .

It’s impossible to know who the Raiders will add Saturday as the NFL draft draws to a close, but it’s likely the way prospective candidates performed in video conferencing will have a lot to do with it.
All three of Friday’s picks — Kentucky running back Lynn Bowden Jr., South Carolina wide receiver Bryan Edwards and Clemson linebacker Tanner Muse — had impressive zoom interviews that helped coach Jon Gruden and general manager Jon Gruden determine they would be worthy additions to the 2020 Raiders.
Bowden said he felt after his video conference he had a connection with the Raiders, one that actually began at the NFL scouting combine in February.
It was then that Gruden put Bowden on the board for a test of his mental acuity.
“Jon did a little mini install, gave him all the Raider verbiage,” Mayock said. “Jon grilled him and he spat all of our information right back at us. He understood all the concepts. He walked out of the room and we were like, `That’s a Raider. That’s what we’re looking for. We did the same thing with Bryan Edwards on Zoom. Tanner Muse knocked his zoommeeting out of the park. He played safety and we questioned him for an hour on linebacker fits and he knew every one of them.”
The mental gymnastics give Mayock hope that whenever the Raiders actually get together as a team when the coronavirus pandemic subsides, the newcomers will grasp their new roles quickly.
“The three guys we drafted today, we fully expect whether it’s Aug. 1, July 1, June 1, whenever we see them, we think they’re going to get up to speed immediately.”
The Raiders felt the same way about their Day 3 haul a year ago, which included three players that were major contributors — defensive end Maxx Crosby of Eastern Michigan (fourth round, No. 106 overall), tight end Foster Moreau (fourth round, No. 137) and wide receiver Hunter Renfrow (fifth round, No. 149).
Barring trades, the Raiders will have two picks in the fourth round Saturday morning at Nos. 121 and 139, and a fifth-round selection at No. 172.
A look at some potential targets as the seven-round draft concludes with an emphasis on edge rushers, offensive linemen and cornerbacks:
DE Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Not an impressive body at 6-2, 265 but plays with high effort and production. Had 13 1/2 sacks and 18 1/2 tackles for loss.
DE Bradley Anae, Utah: Three–year starter had 13 sacks and 14 tackles for losses as a senior at 6-3, 257 and regarded as another high-effort pass rusher.
G-T John Simpson, Clemson: There’s always room for another Clemson Tiger. Especially one who is 6-4, 321 pounds, is a power blocker and has the potential to get even bigger.
CB Troy Pride Jr., Notre Dame: At 5-11, 193, Pride needs a lot of work on cornerback fundamentals but has track makeup speed making him a worthwhile late-round risk.
CB Darnay Holmes, UCLA: Holmes (5-11, 195) checks all the boxes in terms of speed and movement but isn’t a natural ball-hawk when passes are in flight.
G Netane Mute, Fresno State: Grades out as a potential first- through third-round pick at 6-3, 315 in terms of power and skill but available late because of Lisfranc and Achilles injuries that nearly wiped out his last two seasons.
Related Articles Raiders | Sam Darnold’s ‘great’ debut, plus 10 observations from 49ers’ flop
Sam Darnold’s ‘great’ debut, plus 10 observations from 49ers’ flop Raiders | Raiders 34, 49ers 7: Trey Lance sacked four times in rough return
Raiders 34, 49ers 7: Trey Lance sacked four times in rough return Raiders | 49ers at Raiders: 10 players to watch in NFL preseason opener
49ers at Raiders: 10 players to watch in NFL preseason opener Raiders | 49ers-Raiders practice: ‘Bang-bang’ defense takes out Davante Adams
49ers-Raiders practice: ‘Bang-bang’ defense takes out Davante Adams Raiders | Jimmy Garoppolo, 49ers get sentimental at Vegas reunion — to an extent T Ben Bartch, St. John’s (Minnesota): At 6-6, 309, the Division III sleeper has the frame to get much bigger and was impressive after not playing offensive line until 2018.
CB Amik Robertson, Louisiana Tech: Small at 5-8, 187 but has competitive fire the Raiders love and a nose for the ball could stick with someone as a slot corner.
QB Anthony Gordon, Washington State: City College of San Francisco and Terra Nova product passed for more than 5,000 yards in Air Raid offense and Gruden would love to pick his brain about how it works.
G Michael Onwenu, Michigan: Just look at the size — 6-4, 344 pounds. The Raiders love their linemen huge. A mauler fit for a power running attack.


mercurynews--2020-04-25--Horoscopes April 25, 2020: Renee Zellweger, use your skills properly and to your benefit this year.

Happy Birthday : Use your skills properly and to your benefit this year , and you will encourage growth , friendship and positive change .
Look for ways to live life without all the unnecessary extras that clutter and add to your stress .
The only changes you should adopt are the ones that offer and add purity , moderation and self-satisfaction to your everyday life .
Your numbers are 6 , 17 , 20 , 25 , 32 , 37 , 47 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Refuse to let restlessness lead to a mistake .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ will improve your life or benefit your community .
Your hard work will pay off and open doors that lead to a better opportunity .
Romance is featured .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Think before you decide to make a change that will influence your position , status or reputation .
Refuse to get involved in something that is beyond your means or will cause friction between you and someone important to you .
3 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 ) : Use your energy wisely .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ insight into honing your skills and perfecting how you present yourself to the world .
Personal gains and recognition are heading in your direction .
Romance will enhance your life .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Go over your documents , taxes and investments , and make sure everything is up to date .
A change that happens may not be welcome at first , but in hindsight , you will realize that the result is to your benefit .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from people who are trying to get you involved in things that don ’ t interest you .
Put more effort into physical fitness , health and beneficial relationships .
Romance is encouraged and is sure to enhance your personal life .
4 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Concentrate on personal change , not trying to change others .
How you conduct yourself at social events will determine the type of people you attract .
Put greater emphasis on your health and emotional well-being .
2 stars LIBRA ( Sept. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people who inspire and motivate you to engage in creative endeavors and to make personal improvements .
Friendships and romance will encourage positive lifestyle changes that will improve your living conditions .
5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Spend time with someone you find unique and exciting .
Doing so will change your perspective regarding life , love and happiness .
A change may be daunting , but once you take the first step , all your fears will dissipate .
3 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the heart .
Don ’ t lend or borrow money or possessions .
Use your intelligence to prevent getting into a precarious position with someone who doesn ’ t play fair .
Choose peace and love .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : You can make a positive change at home that will make your life less stressful .
Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you or limit what you can do .
Strive for personal perfection , and live life your way .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ takes to look and feel your best .
Don ’ t let an emotional issue ruin your day .
Getting into an argument with someone won ’ t solve anything .
Channel your energy into physical improvements , romance and a happy home life .
5 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : Be yourself .
Refuse to give in to someone ’ s demands .
Follow your heart , and do what makes you happy .
A last-minute change someone makes should not stop you from following through with your plans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
2 stars Birthday Baby : You are energetic , charismatic and determined .
You are opportunistic , inventive and versatile .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Jason Lee, 50; Renee Zellweger, 51; Hank Azaria, 56; Al Pacino, 80.
Happy Birthday: Use your skills properly and to your benefit this year, and you will encourage growth, friendship and positive change. Look for ways to live life without all the unnecessary extras that clutter and add to your stress. The only changes you should adopt are the ones that offer and add purity, moderation and self-satisfaction to your everyday life. Your numbers are 6, 17, 20, 25, 32, 37, 47.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Refuse to let restlessness lead to a mistake. Keep busy working toward a goal that will improve your life or benefit your community. Your hard work will pay off and open doors that lead to a better opportunity. Romance is featured. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Think before you decide to make a change that will influence your position, status or reputation. Refuse to get involved in something that is beyond your means or will cause friction between you and someone important to you. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Use your energy wisely. Funnel your strength, ingenuity and keen insight into honing your skills and perfecting how you present yourself to the world. Personal gains and recognition are heading in your direction. Romance will enhance your life. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Go over your documents, taxes and investments, and make sure everything is up to date. A change that happens may not be welcome at first, but in hindsight, you will realize that the result is to your benefit. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take a break, and distance yourself from people who are trying to get you involved in things that don’t interest you. Put more effort into physical fitness, health and beneficial relationships. Romance is encouraged and is sure to enhance your personal life. 4 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Concentrate on personal change, not trying to change others. How you conduct yourself at social events will determine the type of people you attract. Put greater emphasis on your health and emotional well-being. 2 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Surround yourself with people who inspire and motivate you to engage in creative endeavors and to make personal improvements. Friendships and romance will encourage positive lifestyle changes that will improve your living conditions. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Spend time with someone you find unique and exciting. Doing so will change your perspective regarding life, love and happiness. A change may be daunting, but once you take the first step, all your fears will dissipate. 3 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Take precautions when dealing with affairs of the heart. Don’t lend or borrow money or possessions. Use your intelligence to prevent getting into a precarious position with someone who doesn’t play fair. Choose peace and love. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You can make a positive change at home that will make your life less stressful. Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you or limit what you can do. Strive for personal perfection, and live life your way. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Do whatever it takes to look and feel your best. Don’t let an emotional issue ruin your day. Getting into an argument with someone won’t solve anything. Channel your energy into physical improvements, romance and a happy home life. 5 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Be yourself. Refuse to give in to someone’s demands. Follow your heart, and do what makes you happy. A last-minute change someone makes should not stop you from following through with your plans. Keep your private affairs to yourself. 2 stars
Birthday Baby: You are energetic, charismatic and determined. You are opportunistic, inventive and versatile.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-04-25--Bridge: April 25, 2020

Bridge: April 25, 2020

My “ Simple Saturday ” columns are meant to help improve basic technique and foster logical thinking .
Declarer has ways to set up winners : with intermediate cards by forcing out cards that outrank them , or with long cards .
The problem may be deciding what to try .
At today ’ s 3NT , declarer takes the queen of spades and has only five top tricks .
He can get three more by forcing out the ace of diamonds , but the defenders will continue spades , setting up West ’ s suit , and South will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
South ’ s option is to lead toward dummy ’ s clubs .
If West had the ace , South might get four clubs to go with two spades and three hearts .
And if the king won the first club , South could switch to diamonds .
But in this deal , the clubs lie badly for declarer .
To learn what he must do , South takes the ace , queen and king of hearts .
When East-West follow , South forces out the ace of diamonds .
If the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead a club .
You hold : S 8 5 H A Q 5 D 8 6 3 C K Q 10 6 4 .
Your partner opens one spade , you respond two clubs , he bids two diamonds and you try 2NT .
Partner then bids three diamonds .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Your partner has suggested a minimum opening bid with five spades and five diamonds .
If he were willing to play at game , he could have bid 3NT or jumped to four diamonds , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different .
Pass .
To bid again would distrust your partner .

My “Simple Saturday” columns are meant to help improve basic technique and foster logical thinking.
Declarer has ways to set up winners: with intermediate cards by forcing out cards that outrank them, or with long cards. The problem may be deciding what to try.
At today’s 3NT, declarer takes the queen of spades and has only five top tricks. He can get three more by forcing out the ace of diamonds, but the defenders will continue spades, setting up West’s suit, and South will fail unless the missing hearts break 3-3.
OPTION
South’s option is to lead toward dummy’s clubs. If West had the ace, South might get four clubs to go with two spades and three hearts. And if the king won the first club, South could switch to diamonds. But in this deal, the clubs lie badly for declarer.
To learn what he must do, South takes the ace, queen and king of hearts. When East-West follow, South forces out the ace of diamonds. If the hearts failed to break, South would lead a club.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S 8 5 H A Q 5 D 8 6 3 C K Q 10 6 4. Your partner opens one spade, you respond two clubs, he bids two diamonds and you try 2NT. Partner then bids three diamonds. What do you say?
ANSWER: Your partner has suggested a minimum opening bid with five spades and five diamonds. If he were willing to play at game, he could have bid 3NT or jumped to four diamonds, or his earlier bidding would have been different. Pass. To bid again would distrust your partner.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S 8 5
H A Q 5
D 8 6 3
C K Q 10 6 4
WEST
S K 9 6 4 2
H J 8 4
D A 9 2
C 9 8
EAST
S J 10 7 3
H 10 9 6
D 7 5 4
C A J 2
SOUTH
S A Q
H K 7 3 2
D K Q J 10
C 7 5 3
South West North East
1 NT Pass 3 NT All Pass
Opening lead — S 4
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-04-25--Word Game: April 25, 2020

Word Game: April 25, 2020

Can you find 43 or more words in TOUSLED ?
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 — TOUSLED (TOUSLED: TOU-zuld: Disheveled; rumpled.)
Average mark 30 words
Time limit 45 minutes
Can you find 43 or more words in TOUSLED? The list will be published Monday.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — PRECINCT pectin pent pert pier pincer pine pint price
prince print rein rent rice ripe ripen rite epic cent centric cire cite citer crept incept
inept inert inter nice nicer niter tern tier tine tire trice trine trip tripe
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--2020-04-25--Ask Amy: I’ve started to think her stories are lies

DEAR AMY : I ’ ve known “ Linda ” for about 10 years .
Linda has always been a great storyteller .
I used to love hearing about her crazy adventures .
A few years ago , she suffered a personal tragedy and I was a primary support through those times .
Her attitude , understandably , turned much more negative , as did her stories .
However , I ’ ve realized that she embellishes details to the point of lying .
She told some friends that years ago , she was extremely poor and could barely afford @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , and I know that ’ s a lie because we used to eat out often , and she would buy very expensive , organic groceries regularly .
I didn ’ t feel like it was my place to question her finances , but this story , as well as others , have severely damaged my trust in her .
• Ask Amy : He regrets being an only child .
Should I let him know he ’ s not ?
• Ask Amy : How one boss broke up the ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amy : Shoe freak , neat freak trapped together and going crazy • Ask Amy : Our personal crisis should have taken precedence over her coronavirus fear • Ask Amy : They want us to be friends , but she terrifies me Now every time she tells me anything about her life , it is to seek sympathy , and I don ’ t know what to believe .
I don ’ t know how to respond anymore .
If I question the details , she immediately acts like I ’ m being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defensive if I tell her how I feel and accuse her of lying .
DEAR FRIEND : Good storytellers often embellish details .
Standup comedians , slam poets , troubadours , evangelists , and grandparents the world over enhance or embellish stories — but these stories should always contain a kernel of truth .
If your friend tells a story that involves you or matters to you — and simply isn ’ t at all true — then you should call it out : “ Whoa , wait a minute .
I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all.
” ( You can easily do this without accusing someone of outright lying . )
I suspect the real issue here isn ’ t actually about the annoyance of embellishment .
This is about a friendship which used to feed you , and now depletes you .
Even if “ Linda ” is unable to give much emotionally , or be entertaining in the way she used to be , you might feel better about the friendship if she expressed fondness , gratitude , or appreciation for the important role you play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her the truth : “ I feel pretty tapped out .
You don ’ t seem to really value my company .
I don ’ t know how to react to you anymore , because our friendship feels stuck in place.
” Linda would benefit from professional counseling .
A good therapist would weed out the truth from the “ truth.
” DEAR AMY : I am a creative woman , engaging in many ventures , like taking pictures , compiling , and creating musical videos — for events , reunions , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cook and , yes , have been told I ’ m very good at it .
I design , plan , and then guide in the work for our home to be attractive .
Here ’ s the pickle : For some reason , my husband is always given a lot of credit for these projects , which he does not share in .
For instance , I prepared a full video project , complete with photos and music , for a recent high school reunion .
It really was great , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They then congratulated him on his efforts !
How can I tactfully inform others that it was my doing , and not his… ?
DEAR IDT : This is more a relationship issue than a social one .
Is your husband comfortable taking the credit for things you have done ?
It is his job to quickly and graciously defer all praise to the person who did the work .
You should tell him ( privately ) , “ You know , honey , when people heap praise on you for something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ d really appreciate it if you would correct them.
” If he responded to public praise with a quick and public correction : “ Oh , no !
My wife is the creator ; all the credit belongs to her… ” you would BOTH get credit — you for your efforts , and him for being an endearing and supportive partner .
DEAR AMY : I ’ m responding to the high school girl who wanted to play on the school ’ s volleyball team , but didn ’ t want to shave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as I know , 100 percent of the women in the WNBA shave , as do all of the women on the U.S. Olympic beach volleyball team .
It ’ s not merely aesthetic , it ’ s more hygienic .
If it ’ s good enough for them , it should be good enough for her .
I hope the team stands its ground .
DEAR JOSEPH : Many professional athletes ( male and female ) shave all of their body hair .
I assume this is their choice , however .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or Facebook .

DEAR AMY: I’ve known “Linda” for about 10 years. Linda has always been a great storyteller. I used to love hearing about her crazy adventures.
A few years ago, she suffered a personal tragedy and I was a primary support through those times. Her attitude, understandably, turned much more negative, as did her stories. However, I’ve realized that she embellishes details to the point of lying.
She told some friends that years ago, she was extremely poor and could barely afford food. We were friends at the time, and I know that’s a lie because we used to eat out often, and she would buy very expensive, organic groceries regularly.
I didn’t feel like it was my place to question her finances, but this story, as well as others, have severely damaged my trust in her.
Related Articles Advice | Ask Amy: I found the videos she posted about me, with all the demeaning comments
Ask Amy: I found the videos she posted about me, with all the demeaning comments Advice | Ask Amy: My fiance wants me to stay home. Should I bolt?
Ask Amy: My fiance wants me to stay home. Should I bolt? Advice | Ask Amy: Why did she react that way? It was a compliment!
Ask Amy: Why did she react that way? It was a compliment! Advice | Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now?
Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy Now every time she tells me anything about her life, it is to seek sympathy, and I don’t know what to believe. I don’t know how to respond anymore. If I question the details, she immediately acts like I’m being unsympathetic.
I know she will get defensive if I tell her how I feel and accuse her of lying.
Is this friendship doomed?
A Friend in Need
DEAR FRIEND: Good storytellers often embellish details. Standup comedians, slam poets, troubadours, evangelists, and grandparents the world over enhance or embellish stories — but these stories should always contain a kernel of truth.
If your friend tells a story that involves you or matters to you — and simply isn’t at all true — then you should call it out: “Whoa, wait a minute. I don’t remember it that way at all.” (You can easily do this without accusing someone of outright lying.)
I suspect the real issue here isn’t actually about the annoyance of embellishment. This is about a friendship which used to feed you, and now depletes you.
Even if “Linda” is unable to give much emotionally, or be entertaining in the way she used to be, you might feel better about the friendship if she expressed fondness, gratitude, or appreciation for the important role you play in her life.
Yes, tell her the truth: “I feel pretty tapped out. You don’t seem to really value my company. I don’t know how to react to you anymore, because our friendship feels stuck in place.”
Linda would benefit from professional counseling. A good therapist would weed out the truth from the “truth.”
DEAR AMY: I am a creative woman, engaging in many ventures, like taking pictures, compiling, and creating musical videos — for events, reunions, and special occasions.
I am a creative cook and, yes, have been told I’m very good at it.
I design, plan, and then guide in the work for our home to be attractive.
Here’s the pickle: For some reason, my husband is always given a lot of credit for these projects, which he does not share in. For instance, I prepared a full video project, complete with photos and music, for a recent high school reunion. It really was great, and it was much appreciated by the group. They then congratulated him on his efforts!
How can I tactfully inform others that it was my doing, and not his…?
I Did That!
DEAR IDT: This is more a relationship issue than a social one. Is your husband comfortable taking the credit for things you have done?
It is his job to quickly and graciously defer all praise to the person who did the work. You should tell him (privately), “You know, honey, when people heap praise on you for something I’ve done, I’d really appreciate it if you would correct them.”
If he responded to public praise with a quick and public correction: “Oh, no! My wife is the creator; all the credit belongs to her…” you would BOTH get credit — you for your efforts, and him for being an endearing and supportive partner.
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR AMY: I’m responding to the high school girl who wanted to play on the school’s volleyball team, but didn’t want to shave her legs or armpits.
As far as I know, 100 percent of the women in the WNBA shave, as do all of the women on the U.S. Olympic beach volleyball team. It’s not merely aesthetic, it’s more hygienic.
If it’s good enough for them, it should be good enough for her. I hope the team stands its ground.
Joseph
DEAR JOSEPH: Many professional athletes (male and female) shave all of their body hair. I assume this is their choice, however.
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--2020-04-25--Harriette Cole: My 6-year-old calls me by my first name

DEAR HARRIETTE : My son is 6 years old , and he recently started calling me by my first name .
I am old-fashioned : I want him to call me Mommy .
It ’ s like one day he woke up and realized my name isn ’ t actually “ Mommy , ” and he went around the house chanting it .
The more I protest , the more he says my name .
What should I do ?
I want to teach him to have good manners .
When I was growing up , I would have gotten @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her first name .
I am not sure how to handle this .
DEAR A NAME : Rather than fighting with your 6-year-old , give him a bit to claim your name .
He is learning .
It may be a source of fascination to him that his mother has a name other than Mommy .
If you stop reacting so much and trying to control him , he will likely calm down all by himself .
When his fascination subsides , you may want to let him know when it is smart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ learned this the hard way when my daughter was about your son ’ s age .
She had somehow gotten outside when I was in the doctor ’ s office .
The door self-locked , and she was calling out , “ Mommy !
Mommy !
” Since I was certain that my child was playing in the waiting room , I didn ’ t really hear her cries .
The building manager rescued her , so all ended up well .
• Harriette Cole : I don ’ t want them to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : I ’ m done with Netflix .
How do I find joy during the quarantine ?
• Harriette Cole : He says we ’ re going to die anyway , so he ’ s not going to stay home • Harriette Cole : I was annoyed at first , but now I ’ m worried about my intern • Harriette Cole : Two people in my building died , and I ’ m afraid to even breathe What I realized is that in case of emergency , it is much better for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s name rather than Mommy because every mother ’ s name is Mommy .
At that moment , my young daughter learned when to use what name .
I hope you never have such a scare , but it is wise to tell your children that in time of need , call out your real name .
DEAR HARRIETTE : My friend “ Jeff ” was recently diagnosed with diabetes .
He is single and apparently has not been taking good care of himself .
Some other friends and I agreed that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthy by taking turns making food for him .
We all live nearby .
I wish we could also teach him how to cook , but now that we have social distancing , it seems like an impossible task .
What do you recommend ?
DEAR HEALTHY TIPS : It ’ s wonderful that you and your friends are prepared to help Jeff get healthy .
It will mean a lot to him , at least during these early days of learning to eat differently , if others are providing him with food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to maintain a healthy lifestyle , he needs to learn to do it for himself .
Consider teaching him to cook with Zoom classes .
You can be in your kitchen , and he can be in his .
You can read the ingredients with him and go step-by-step through the recipes .
You can make dishes together , virtually , while maintaining a healthy distance .
The bonus is that it should be fun !
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an initiative to help people access @ @ @ @ @ @ @ send questions to askharriette @ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: My son is 6 years old, and he recently started calling me by my first name. I am old-fashioned: I want him to call me Mommy.
It’s like one day he woke up and realized my name isn’t actually “Mommy,” and he went around the house chanting it. The more I protest, the more he says my name.
What should I do? I want to teach him to have good manners. When I was growing up, I would have gotten a spanking for calling my mother by her first name. I am not sure how to handle this.
A Name
DEAR A NAME: Rather than fighting with your 6-year-old, give him a bit to claim your name. He is learning. It may be a source of fascination to him that his mother has a name other than Mommy. If you stop reacting so much and trying to control him, he will likely calm down all by himself.
When his fascination subsides, you may want to let him know when it is smart to use your proper name.
I learned this the hard way when my daughter was about your son’s age. She had somehow gotten outside when I was in the doctor’s office. The door self-locked, and she was calling out, “Mommy! Mommy!” Since I was certain that my child was playing in the waiting room, I didn’t really hear her cries. The building manager rescued her, so all ended up well.
Related Articles Advice | Harriette Cole: Was it rash to choose this job over my boyfriend’s objections?
Harriette Cole: Was it rash to choose this job over my boyfriend’s objections? Advice | Harriette Cole: What does it mean that my boyfriend’s sister called me by this name?
Harriette Cole: What does it mean that my boyfriend’s sister called me by this name? Advice | Harriette Cole: Our guest walked through a closed screen door. Is it our problem?
Harriette Cole: Our guest walked through a closed screen door. Is it our problem? Advice | Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend
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 What I realized is that in case of emergency, it is much better for a child to call out the mother’s name rather than Mommy because every mother’s name is Mommy. At that moment, my young daughter learned when to use what name.
I hope you never have such a scare, but it is wise to tell your children that in time of need, call out your real name.
DEAR HARRIETTE: My friend “Jeff” was recently diagnosed with diabetes. He is single and apparently has not been taking good care of himself. Some other friends and I agreed that we are going to help him get healthy by taking turns making food for him. We all live nearby.
I wish we could also teach him how to cook, but now that we have social distancing, it seems like an impossible task. What do you recommend?
Healthy Tips
DEAR HEALTHY TIPS: It’s wonderful that you and your friends are prepared to help Jeff get healthy. It will mean a lot to him, at least during these early days of learning to eat differently, if others are providing him with food. But you are right: In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, he needs to learn to do it for himself.
Consider teaching him to cook with Zoom classes. You can be in your kitchen, and he can be in his. You can read the ingredients with him and go step-by-step through the recipes. You can make dishes together, virtually, while maintaining a healthy distance. The bonus is that it should be fun!
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--2020-04-25--Miss Manners: Is that the kid’s mother or father? What if I can’t tell?

DEAR MISS MANNERS : I am a teacher , and part of my job is contacting the parents or guardians of students having academic difficulties .
I obtain the contact information from an internal school website .
Often , the listed first names of parents are ( at least to me ) gender indeterminate , and I don ’ t know whether to start the email with “ Mr. ” or “ Ms. ” Using “ Dear Mr./Ms.
” seems insensitive and borderline offensive .
I imagine this dilemma affects people in non-teaching occupations , as well .
Do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with this sometimes-awkward issue ?
GENTLE READER : Seize the opportunity to use “ M. , ” with or without an ambiguous squiggle .
With any luck , this neutral honorific will catch on and we can begin to obliterate the often-misgendering labels .
People may be confused at first , possibly wondering if you believe that you are addressing a French gentleman , but if we can all push through the awkward phase , we may be on our way to updating society .
• Miss Manners : This stranger wanted me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s house • Miss Manners : I was embarrassed by how my husband summoned the waitress • Miss Manners : I told her my secret and she used it to trash my reputation • Miss Manners : This offended bride seems to think I owe her something • Miss Manners : How hard should I apologize if I misgender someone ?
By way of thanks , however , please have the courtesy not to point out that Miss Manners herself is still part of the antiquated tradition .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : After @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , dinner parties , holidays — I always send our guests a note to thank them for coming ( and for their side dish , dessert , wine , etc .
if they brought something ) .
Unless it ’ s a very casual event like a weekend cookout , I send written notes .
( For last-minute or casual events , I ’ ll send individual emails . )
My partner feels this is inappropriate and a waste of paper and stamps , and that it is the guests ’ responsibility to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I believe that , a ) it ’ s a few minutes and a pittance ; b ) I really am glad they were there ; and c ) what ’ s wrong with few more thank-you notes in the world ?
He also worries that it sounds like I ’ m fishing for a reciprocal invite , though I never say anything beyond a neutral “ I hope we ’ ll be seeing you again soon !
” GENTLE READER : Reluctant as she is to condemn a thank-you letter , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ husband — although not for his reasons .
To thank your guests for coming not-so-subtly points out that they have yet to thank you .
Perhaps better to call and have a good gossip over the evening , giving them the chance to thank you for it then .
You may commence an unrelated written correspondence anytime after that .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : My brother-in-law sends group texts — mainly to his family , whom I have never met , but I ’ m included .
I find it rude and invasive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ getting constant texts from people I don ’ t know .
It ’ s similar to party-line phones from when I was very young .
I constantly delete these texts .
How do I let him know I don ’ t want to be included ?
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: I am a teacher, and part of my job is contacting the parents or guardians of students having academic difficulties. I obtain the contact information from an internal school website.
Often, the listed first names of parents are (at least to me) gender indeterminate, and I don’t know whether to start the email with “Mr.” or “Ms.” Using “Dear Mr./Ms.” seems insensitive and borderline offensive.
I imagine this dilemma affects people in non-teaching occupations, as well. Do you have a suggestion on how to deal with this sometimes-awkward issue?
GENTLE READER: Seize the opportunity to use “M.,” with or without an ambiguous squiggle. With any luck, this neutral honorific will catch on and we can begin to obliterate the often-misgendering labels.
People may be confused at first, possibly wondering if you believe that you are addressing a French gentleman, but if we can all push through the awkward phase, we may be on our way to updating society.
Related Articles Advice | Miss Manners: They come to my house and yell at my dog
Miss Manners: They come to my house and yell at my dog Advice | Miss Manners: Why are parents miffed at me? They’re the ones who spell the kids’ names wrong.
Miss Manners: Why are parents miffed at me? They’re the ones who spell the kids’ names wrong. Advice | Miss Manners: She’s so rich, but she never gives us anything
Miss Manners: She’s so rich, but she never gives us anything Advice | Miss Manners: She wants to turn our music festival into a get-drunk weekend
Miss Manners: She wants to turn our music festival into a get-drunk weekend Advice | Miss Manners: My rule is no gift for a second wedding, no attendance for a third By way of thanks, however, please have the courtesy not to point out that Miss Manners herself is still part of the antiquated tradition.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: After social events at our home — barbecues, dinner parties, holidays — I always send our guests a note to thank them for coming (and for their side dish, dessert, wine, etc. if they brought something). Unless it’s a very casual event like a weekend cookout, I send written notes. (For last-minute or casual events, I’ll send individual emails.)
My partner feels this is inappropriate and a waste of paper and stamps, and that it is the guests’ responsibility to thank the hosts, not vice versa. I believe that, a) it’s a few minutes and a pittance; b) I really am glad they were there; and c) what’s wrong with few more thank-you notes in the world?
He also worries that it sounds like I’m fishing for a reciprocal invite, though I never say anything beyond a neutral “I hope we’ll be seeing you again soon!”
GENTLE READER: Reluctant as she is to condemn a thank-you letter, Miss Manners has to agree with your husband — although not for his reasons.
To thank your guests for coming not-so-subtly points out that they have yet to thank you. Perhaps better to call and have a good gossip over the evening, giving them the chance to thank you for it then. You may commence an unrelated written correspondence anytime after that.
Want Miss Manners delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR MISS MANNERS: My brother-in-law sends group texts — mainly to his family, whom I have never met, but I’m included. I find it rude and invasive, plus I don’t like getting constant texts from people I don’t know. It’s similar to party-line phones from when I was very young.
I constantly delete these texts. How do I let him know I don’t want to be included?
GENTLE READER: “New phone, who is this?”
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--2020-04-25--Dear Abby: My neighbors caught me on their trampoline, and my wife is mortified

DEAR ABBY : I like to jump on our neighbors ’ trampoline when they ’ re out of town .
I have been doing it for decades .
Normally it ’ s no big deal , but last weekend they returned home earlier than usual and caught me in the act .
Now my wife is ashamed to show her face around the neighborhood , and she ’ s blaming me for the whole thing .
Abby , I have a simple solution to this mess .
If the neighbors don ’ t want me jumping on their trampoline , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a privacy fence .
• Dear Abby : His wife made a scene at our work , but I don ’ t want to give him up • Dear Abby : Their threats make me afraid to evict them • Dear Abby : She had a head injury and now she dresses weird • Dear Abby : My husband calls her by the pet name that used to be mine • Dear Abby : He says crude things , and I ’ m afraid someone will punch him Don ’ t you agree @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so jumpy and can ’ t keep your feet on the ground , it may be time to buy your own trampoline , which would save your wife a world of embarrassment .
Your comment about the neighbors building a fence may have been offered in jest , but it is sensible .
If someone ’ s child were to play on that trampoline in their absence and be injured , your neighbor could wind up paying a lot more than the cost of a fence .
DEAR ABBY : Seven years ago @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t paid our mortgage and credit card bills for more than two years , and our home of 23 years was in pre-foreclosure .
Once the secret was out , we managed to save the house ( thankfully ) .
Problem is , I no longer trust my husband and often doubt what he says .
My priority was to save our home , but now I am no longer sure I want to stay with him .
Our 40th anniversary is this year , but I feel bitter and resentful about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leave , but I ’ m scared I am making the wrong decision .
DEAR MIXED UP : Because I have no idea why your husband behaved so irresponsibly , you need to hash this out with a licensed marriage and family therapist .
You should also consult an attorney .
If you decide to stay , it is imperative that you be in a position to closely monitor any financial actions and obligations in your household .
DEAR ABBY : My wife and I have a dilemma we don ’ t know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ retired .
Our sons ( both married with children ) live in other states .
Since my wife and I no longer have family here , we are going to move close to one of our sons .
Our dilemma : They both want us to move near them , but they are 2,000 miles apart .
Both of the states they live in are similar in terms of taxes , home prices , cost of living , etc .
We have decided where we would like to go and found a home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our other son why we moved where we did ?
He ’ s going to be very hurt and feel that we favor his brother , which couldn ’ t be further from the truth .
Both are financially stable ( as are my wife and I ) , so that is not an issue .
I ’ m sure many people would feel blessed to have two sons who both want their parents close by .
How do we tell one we picked the other ?
DEAR NEARBY : Do not tell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you did .
You chose a LOCATION .
Why did you arrive at the decision you did ?
Make a list of the reasons you made your choice and recite them when you are asked .
You are all adults .
Your reasons are valid ones , and this should not be couched in terms of one son being loved better than the other , which is childish .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips @ @ @ @ @ @ @ P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: I like to jump on our neighbors’ trampoline when they’re out of town. I have been doing it for decades.
Normally it’s no big deal, but last weekend they returned home earlier than usual and caught me in the act. Now my wife is ashamed to show her face around the neighborhood, and she’s blaming me for the whole thing.
Abby, I have a simple solution to this mess. If the neighbors don’t want me jumping on their trampoline, they should cough up the money for a privacy fence.
Related Articles Advice | Dear Abby: Is it weird that I think this actress could be my sister?
Dear Abby: Is it weird that I think this actress could be my sister? Advice | Dear Abby: Why are people so rude to me lately? I’m a nice guy.
Dear Abby: Why are people so rude to me lately? I’m a nice guy. Advice | Dear Abby: My financial adviser won’t listen to me, but he insists he’s not sexist
Dear Abby: My financial adviser won’t listen to me, but he insists he’s not sexist Advice | Dear Abby: Our teen’s messy breakup has had awkward repercussions for us
Dear Abby: Our teen’s messy breakup has had awkward repercussions for us Advice | Dear Abby: I was annoyed to discover why our friends picked this restaurant Don’t you agree?
BOUNCING INTO TROUBLE
DEAR BOUNCING: If you are so jumpy and can’t keep your feet on the ground, it may be time to buy your own trampoline, which would save your wife a world of embarrassment.
Your comment about the neighbors building a fence may have been offered in jest, but it is sensible. If someone’s child were to play on that trampoline in their absence and be injured, your neighbor could wind up paying a lot more than the cost of a fence.
DEAR ABBY: Seven years ago, I found out my husband hadn’t paid our mortgage and credit card bills for more than two years, and our home of 23 years was in pre-foreclosure. Once the secret was out, we managed to save the house (thankfully).
Problem is, I no longer trust my husband and often doubt what he says. My priority was to save our home, but now I am no longer sure I want to stay with him.
Our 40th anniversary is this year, but I feel bitter and resentful about his irresponsible decisions. I want to leave, but I’m scared I am making the wrong decision.
Help, please.
MIXED UP IN MASSACHUSETTS
DEAR MIXED UP: Because I have no idea why your husband behaved so irresponsibly, you need to hash this out with a licensed marriage and family therapist.
You should also consult an attorney. If you decide to stay, it is imperative that you be in a position to closely monitor any financial actions and obligations in your household.
DEAR ABBY: My wife and I have a dilemma we don’t know how to handle. We both recently retired. Our sons (both married with children) live in other states.
Since my wife and I no longer have family here, we are going to move close to one of our sons. Our dilemma: They both want us to move near them, but they are 2,000 miles apart.
Both of the states they live in are similar in terms of taxes, home prices, cost of living, etc. We have decided where we would like to go and found a home to purchase. How do we tell our other son why we moved where we did? He’s going to be very hurt and feel that we favor his brother, which couldn’t be further from the truth. Both are financially stable (as are my wife and I), so that is not an issue.
I’m sure many people would feel blessed to have two sons who both want their parents close by. How do we tell one we picked the other?
NEARBY IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR NEARBY: Do not tell either brother that you picked the one you did. You chose a LOCATION.
Why did you arrive at the decision you did? Make a list of the reasons you made your choice and recite them when you are asked. You are all adults. Your reasons are valid ones, and this should not be couched in terms of one son being loved better than the other, which is childish.
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--2020-04-25--736 screened this week at COVID-19 testing sites in Fremont

FREMONT – Of the 736 people screened for COVID-19 at Fremont ’ s free walk-up and drive-through testing sites this week , 44 tested positive for the virus , the city announced late Friday .
The sites were established three weeks ago , the city said in a news release , “ to alleviate the impact on hospital emergency departments , provide quicker answers for first responders and frontline health care workers with COVID-19 symptoms and better inform individuals so they know to isolate and help slow the spread of the virus.
” The city said 278 of the 736 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service workers.
” To date , the city has screened a total of 2,558 people , 120 of whom have tested positive for COVID-19 .
The testing sites “ have attracted people from throughout the Bay Area , requiring positive test results be reported to each appropriate county and added to the corresponding county ’ s daily positive case updates as the results are confirmed , ” the city said .
To receive a test , a person must have or recently had a fever or any of the following conditions : recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case ; cough , shortness of breath or difficulty breathing ; or other chronic health conditions or diseases .
The drive-through testing site at 7200 Stevenson Blvd .
is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will operate through May 3 .
Walk-up appointments at the Tri-City Health Center , 39500 Liberty St. , can be scheduled by contacting 510-252-6808 .
Appointments are otherwise available Monday through Friday on a first come , first served basis , from 1 p.m. until all slots are filled .
First responders and frontline health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advance by calling 510-494-4292 .

FREMONT – Of the 736 people screened for COVID-19 at Fremont’s free walk-up and drive-through testing sites this week, 44 tested positive for the virus, the city announced late Friday.
The sites were established three weeks ago, the city said in a news release, “to alleviate the impact on hospital emergency departments, provide quicker answers for first responders and frontline health care workers with COVID-19 symptoms and better inform individuals so they know to isolate and help slow the spread of the virus.”
The city said 278 of the 736 people screened this week were “essential service workers.” To date, the city has screened a total of 2,558 people, 120 of whom have tested positive for COVID-19.
The testing sites “have attracted people from throughout the Bay Area, requiring positive test results be reported to each appropriate county and added to the corresponding county’s daily positive case updates as the results are confirmed,” the city said.
To receive a test, a person must have or recently had a fever or any of the following conditions: recent exposure to a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 case; cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; or other chronic health conditions or diseases.
The drive-through testing site at 7200 Stevenson Blvd. is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will operate through May 3.
Walk-up appointments at the Tri-City Health Center, 39500 Liberty St., can be scheduled by contacting 510-252-6808. Appointments are otherwise available Monday through Friday on a first come, first served basis, from 1 p.m. until all slots are filled.
First responders and frontline health care workers can schedule a test in advance by calling 510-494-4292.
For testing updates, call 510-494-4292.


mercurynews--2020-04-25--On Anzac Day, services in lockdown replaced by home vigils

CANBERRA , Australia ( AP ) — Traditional crowds at dawn services for the Anzac Day memorial holiday in Australia were replaced with candlelit vigils in driveways and neighbors gathering to listen to buglers play “ The Last Post.
” Social distancing and restrictions on crowds due to the coronavirus meant that the usual packed dawn services in cities and towns across the country were not held on Saturday .
The holiday , also celebrated in New Zealand , marks the anniversary of New Zealand and Australian soldiers , known as Anzacs , landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two countries were killed during that World War I campaign in what ’ s now Turkey , although Anzac Day honors those killed in all wars .
In the national capital Canberra , Prime Minister Scott Morrison spoke at a crowd-free commemorative service held inside the Australian War Memorial .
A didgeridoo sounded the beginning of the service .
In the Sydney suburb of Wahroonga , trumpeter Lewis Ketteridge , 8 , and French horn player Grace Colville , 16 , were among a dozen brass players playing “ The Last Post ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residents observed a minute ’ s silence .
“ Strangely , it made it more moving that people were still willing to commemorate Anzac Day instead of just letting it go by , ” said resident Catherine Colville .
She said the community carefully maintained social distancing as they placed candles , pictures of serving ancestors and wreaths of native leaves and flowers under an Australian flag hanging on a tree .
Marches and gatherings were canceled for only the third time — the last time in 1942 and previously during the devastating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New Zealand , where even tighter crowd restrictions are in place , Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stood at dawn on the driveway of Premier House , the leader ’ s official residence , for a ceremony .
• 736 screened this week at COVID-19 testing sites in Fremont • Senior Living : In shutting out threat of coronavirus , seniors in continuing care communities feel shut in • Coronavirus : Cases and deaths surged last week .
Is California really flattening the curve ?
• Photos : Georgia and Oklahoma open up some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participated in the “ Stand at Dawn ” initiative , and in one Christchurch suburb , bagpiper Tom Glove greeted the families that gathered at each driveway with a rendition of “ Amazing Grace .
”

CANBERRA, Australia (AP) — Traditional crowds at dawn services for the Anzac Day memorial holiday in Australia were replaced with candlelit vigils in driveways and neighbors gathering to listen to buglers play “The Last Post.”
Social distancing and restrictions on crowds due to the coronavirus meant that the usual packed dawn services in cities and towns across the country were not held on Saturday. The holiday, also celebrated in New Zealand, marks the anniversary of New Zealand and Australian soldiers, known as Anzacs, landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915.
More than 10,000 soldiers from the two countries were killed during that World War I campaign in what’s now Turkey, although Anzac Day honors those killed in all wars.
In the national capital Canberra, Prime Minister Scott Morrison spoke at a crowd-free commemorative service held inside the Australian War Memorial. A didgeridoo sounded the beginning of the service.
In the Sydney suburb of Wahroonga, trumpeter Lewis Ketteridge, 8, and French horn player Grace Colville, 16, were among a dozen brass players playing “The Last Post” from their driveways at dawn before 40 residents observed a minute’s silence.
“Strangely, it made it more moving that people were still willing to commemorate Anzac Day instead of just letting it go by,” said resident Catherine Colville.
She said the community carefully maintained social distancing as they placed candles, pictures of serving ancestors and wreaths of native leaves and flowers under an Australian flag hanging on a tree.
Marches and gatherings were canceled for only the third time — the last time in 1942 and previously during the devastating Spanish flu outbreak of 1918.
In New Zealand, where even tighter crowd restrictions are in place, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stood at dawn on the driveway of Premier House, the leader’s official residence, for a ceremony.


mercurynews--2020-04-26--Kurtenbach’s Grades: Win-now 49ers put on a draft masterclass

Since Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch took over the 49ers , they have entered the draft trying to rebuild the team .
Obviously , with the 49ers winning the NFC and going to the Super Bowl this past season , the team ’ s priorities needed to change .
No longer could the Niners select talent with the sole purpose of accruing as much as possible .
No , this year , Lynch and Shanahan had to fill specific needs for a team that has an open championship window .
It ’ s a dance that this Niner administration had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a tricky one .
But from my vantage point — my couch and desk , which is the same as yours and Shanahan and Lynch ’ s — the 49ers ’ aced the test .
No one knows how any of the new NFL players selected over the past three days will fare .
There will be “ surefire ” prospects that flame out and unheralded picks that become All-Pros .
It ’ s all a crapshoot — educated guesses .
But remove the names — forget the specific prospects — and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from a business management standpoint .
It was a masterclass in professionalism .
The Niners ’ picks and the moves around them were logical and straightforward .
There were no surprises or aggressive double-downs .
There was nothing wild or speculative about it .
This was a team that entered the draft with a plan and was able to execute that plan amid unique and dynamic circumstances .
A team that came into the draft with two glaring needs — three-technique defensive tackle and ‘ X ’ wide receiver — filled those needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the first round .
A team that needed a left tackle ( though they kept that a secret up until Day Three ) added an elite one not from the draft , but with marginal draft capital via trade .
A team that needed some salary-cap relief — in no small part because of that new left tackle — found some in trading away veterans buried on the depth chart .
A team that needed a versatile depth lineman , a blocking tight end , and a larger slot receiver picked up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might seem unremarkable .
It should , because competence is .
But , let me tell you , it ’ s not in wide supply in the NFL .
( You only need to look at the Packers ’ draft .
The Niners ’ NFC Championship opponent , which desperately needed a wide receiver and offensive linemen , used their first-round pick on a quarterback who will be benched for a few years , at least . )
That why in a league that prides itself on “ parity ” , the best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year and the worst teams can ’ t seem to ever catch a break .
The Niners could be seen as a flash in the pan — a one-year wonder — by some .
They caught quite a few breaks this past season on their road to Miami .
But this draft showed that the Niners ’ mistake is no accident .
We knew that Shanahan knew what he was doing on the field , but in five picks and five trades , Lynch should have earned every Niners fans ’ trust .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kinlaw has the raw athleticism the Niners crave on the defensive line .
The drop-off from him — in my opinion the top defensive tackle prospect in the draft — to the next-best prospect available at that position was immense , so strong value for the Niners here .
Kinlaw will enter a perfect situation to succeed early .
The Niners will need him to capitalize .
Only concern : knee tendinitis .
Shanahan ’ s favorite wide receiver prospect , Aiyuk is a young Emmanuel Sanders .
His hands aren ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most athletic receiver in the draft .
Another tremendous scheme fit , he ’ ll likely be a Week 1 starter opposite ( and interchanging with ) Deebo Samuel .
The duo is unquestionably one of the most interesting young receiver pairs in the league going into 2020 .
The offensive tackle wasn ’ t a draft selection , but he was acquired with this pick , along with a third-round pick in 2021 .
The notion that Williams — an All-Pro caliber left tackle — could be had for a future third @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even if he needs a new contract .
This came via a pick the Niners received in a swap for running back Matt Breida .
McKivitz is a versatile lineman who plays with the kind of run-blocking edge San Francisco loves .
He ’ s a tremendous scheme fit who received comparisons to Dan Brunskill in the draft process and now he ’ ll likely compete with him for the starting right guard job .
As a backup , McKivitz is a viable option to play at right tackle and both guard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the Niners ’ scheme seems to undercut those concerns with many prospects .
Overall , McKivitz is a high-floor prospect where there not much upside , so , even on Day 3 , he might have been drafted too early .
That said , the Niners did sniff out a run on guards in the round .
Woerner will be the Niners ’ blocking tight end this year .
He ’ s roughly the same size as George Kittle and he shows the same kind of tenacity in blocking as San @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He ’ ll move people at the NFL level .
He wasn ’ t used much as a receiver at Georgia , but his athletic testing hints at untapped potential , posing a 120-inch broad jump , 34-inch vertical jump , and a 4.78-yard 40-yard dash — better numbers than Eagles star tight end Zach Ertz .
I ’ m extremely high on this pick , as it not just fills an immediate need but also has a chance to look like a steal in a few years .
It helps the vibes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of a deal to dump the salary of Marquise Goodwin — a huge , positive move for the Niners .
Jennings doesn ’ t have the athletic testing the 49ers usually value in the draft , which made his selection a bit of a surprise , but on Day 3 , you sacrifice something — either athletic upside , character , or on-field production .
Jennings , a former high school quarterback , had the character and the tape .
He ’ s not fast , but he is shifty and large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Tennessee , breaking tackles on more than 50 percent of his catches last year .
That was far and away the highest rate in major college football last year .
Jennings comes in as insurance for the injured all-around “ offensive weapon ” Jalen Hurd and as a possible upgrade — particularly in the red zone — at slot receiver .
While there were certainly higher-upside prospects , Round 7 was a reasonable point of selection for Jennings .

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the slideshow on a mobile device.
Since Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch took over the 49ers, they have entered the draft trying to rebuild the team.
Obviously, with the 49ers winning the NFC and going to the Super Bowl this past season, the team’s priorities needed to change.
No longer could the Niners select talent with the sole purpose of accruing as much as possible. No, this year, Lynch and Shanahan had to fill specific needs for a team that has an open championship window.
It’s a dance that this Niner administration had not done before, and it’s a tricky one.
But from my vantage point — my couch and desk, which is the same as yours and Shanahan and Lynch’s — the 49ers’ aced the test.
No one knows how any of the new NFL players selected over the past three days will fare. There will be “surefire” prospects that flame out and unheralded picks that become All-Pros. It’s all a crapshoot — educated guesses.
But remove the names — forget the specific prospects — and look at San Francisco’s draft from a business management standpoint. It was a masterclass in professionalism. The Niners’ picks and the moves around them were logical and straightforward. There were no surprises or aggressive double-downs. There was nothing wild or speculative about it. This was a team that entered the draft with a plan and was able to execute that plan amid unique and dynamic circumstances.
A team that came into the draft with two glaring needs — three-technique defensive tackle and ‘X’ wide receiver — filled those needs with crafty maneuvering and two elite athletes in the first round.
A team that needed a left tackle (though they kept that a secret up until Day Three) added an elite one not from the draft, but with marginal draft capital via trade.
A team that needed some salary-cap relief — in no small part because of that new left tackle — found some in trading away veterans buried on the depth chart.
A team that needed a versatile depth lineman, a blocking tight end, and a larger slot receiver picked up all three on Day Three.
This might seem unremarkable. It should, because competence is.
But, let me tell you, it’s not in wide supply in the NFL. (You only need to look at the Packers’ draft. The Niners’ NFC Championship opponent, which desperately needed a wide receiver and offensive linemen, used their first-round pick on a quarterback who will be benched for a few years, at least.)
That why in a league that prides itself on “parity”, the best run teams make the playoffs year after year and the worst teams can’t seem to ever catch a break.
The Niners could be seen as a flash in the pan — a one-year wonder — by some. They caught quite a few breaks this past season on their road to Miami.
But this draft showed that the Niners’ mistake is no accident. We knew that Shanahan knew what he was doing on the field, but in five picks and five trades, Lynch should have earned every Niners fans’ trust.
Round 1
Javon Kinlaw – DT – South Carolina
The ready-made replacement for DeForest Buckner, Kinlaw has the raw athleticism the Niners crave on the defensive line. The drop-off from him — in my opinion the top defensive tackle prospect in the draft — to the next-best prospect available at that position was immense, so strong value for the Niners here. Kinlaw will enter a perfect situation to succeed early. The Niners will need him to capitalize. Only concern: knee tendinitis.
Grade: A-
Brandon Aiyuk – WR – Arizona State
Shanahan’s favorite wide receiver prospect, Aiyuk is a young Emmanuel Sanders. His hands aren’t sure, but he was arguably the most athletic receiver in the draft. Another tremendous scheme fit, he’ll likely be a Week 1 starter opposite (and interchanging with) Deebo Samuel. The duo is unquestionably one of the most interesting young receiver pairs in the league going into 2020.
Grade: A
***
Round 5
Trent Williams – OT – Washington
The offensive tackle wasn’t a draft selection, but he was acquired with this pick, along with a third-round pick in 2021.
The notion that Williams — an All-Pro caliber left tackle — could be had for a future third and a present fifth-round pick is comical, even if he needs a new contract.
Grade: A+
Colton McKivitz – OT – West Virginia
This came via a pick the Niners received in a swap for running back Matt Breida. McKivitz is a versatile lineman who plays with the kind of run-blocking edge San Francisco loves.
He’s a tremendous scheme fit who received comparisons to Dan Brunskill in the draft process and now he’ll likely compete with him for the starting right guard job. As a backup, McKivitz is a viable option to play at right tackle and both guard spots. Pass protection is a concern, but the Niners’ scheme seems to undercut those concerns with many prospects. Overall, McKivitz is a high-floor prospect where there not much upside, so, even on Day 3, he might have been drafted too early. That said, the Niners did sniff out a run on guards in the round.
Grade: B-
***
Round 6
Charlie Woerner – TE – Georgia
Woerner will be the Niners’ blocking tight end this year. He’s roughly the same size as George Kittle and he shows the same kind of tenacity in blocking as San Francisco’s All-Pro tight end. He’ll move people at the NFL level.
He wasn’t used much as a receiver at Georgia, but his athletic testing hints at untapped potential, posing a 120-inch broad jump, 34-inch vertical jump, and a 4.78-yard 40-yard dash — better numbers than Eagles star tight end Zach Ertz. I’m extremely high on this pick, as it not just fills an immediate need but also has a chance to look like a steal in a few years.
It helps the vibes that the pick that selected Woerner was part of a deal to dump the salary of Marquise Goodwin — a huge, positive move for the Niners.
Grade: A
***
Round 7
Jauan Jennings — WR — Tennessee
Jennings doesn’t have the athletic testing the 49ers usually value in the draft, which made his selection a bit of a surprise, but on Day 3, you sacrifice something — either athletic upside, character, or on-field production.
Jennings, a former high school quarterback, had the character and the tape. He’s not fast, but he is shifty and large — he literally ran over SEC competition at Tennessee, breaking tackles on more than 50 percent of his catches last year. That was far and away the highest rate in major college football last year.
Jennings comes in as insurance for the injured all-around “offensive weapon” Jalen Hurd and as a possible upgrade — particularly in the red zone — at slot receiver.
While there were certainly higher-upside prospects, Round 7 was a reasonable point of selection for Jennings.
Grade: B


mercurynews--2020-04-26--Menlo Park: Man shot Saturday near Facebook, refuses to cooperate with police

MENLO PARK — A 44-year-old man was found shot in the abdomen here Saturday , but police say he is not cooperating with investigators .
Police believe the man knew his assailant , who remained at large , according to a prepared statement .
The victim , who police did not identify , was being treated at an area hospital .
He was found at about 11:15 a.m. at the 1500 block of Willow Road , police said , near its intersection with Highway 84 .
The area is close to the Facebook campus .
Police said they think the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ area ” of Highway 84 .
He claimed he didn ’ t know who shot him and clammed up when pressed for details , police said .
They don ’ t believe him .
The “ initial investigation suggests the victim knew the suspect , ” police wrote in the statement .
The California Highway Patrol and the East Palo Alto Police Department joined in a search of the shooting area , but no suspects were found , Menlo Park Police said .
Police added that it is not believed the shooting “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Anyone with information is asked to call police at 650-330-6300 .
Anonymous tips can be reported at 650-330-6395 .

MENLO PARK — A 44-year-old man was found shot in the abdomen here Saturday, but police say he is not cooperating with investigators.
Police believe the man knew his assailant, who remained at large, according to a prepared statement.
The victim, who police did not identify, was being treated at an area hospital. He was found at about 11:15 a.m. at the 1500 block of Willow Road, police said, near its intersection with Highway 84. The area is close to the Facebook campus.
Police said they think the man was shot in a “field area” of Highway 84. He claimed he didn’t know who shot him and clammed up when pressed for details, police said. They don’t believe him. The “initial investigation suggests the victim knew the suspect,” police wrote in the statement.
The California Highway Patrol and the East Palo Alto Police Department joined in a search of the shooting area, but no suspects were found, Menlo Park Police said. Police added that it is not believed the shooting “represents an ongoing threat to public safety.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 650-330-6300. Anonymous tips can be reported at 650-330-6395.
Check back for updates.