mercurynews--2020-08-12--Inside the Raiders: What can we reasonably expect from Jason Witten?

The Raiders have a history of trying to wring one last big year out of established stars , and the signing of tight end Jason Witten on the first day of free agency is no different .
A word of advice : if all goes according to plan , Witten ’ s contributions will be more intangible than statistical .
From a fantasy perspective , other than Witten getting a few touchdowns in the red zone , it ’ s better to stick with the plan to draft Darren Waller .
Witten , 38 , seems to understand where he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on his expansive Zoom conference with reporters Monday .
“ I think when you get to this age , it ’ s all about the fit and the role and it made a lot of sense for me , ” Witten said .
Other than his rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys in 2003 and his temporary retirement to join the ESPN Monday Night Football booth in 2018 , Witten has been like a metronome , catching no fewer than 63 passes 15 times with a high of 110 in 2012 .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never having averaged 12.0 yards per reception , nor is he as talented as Tony Gonzalez , the former Cal star who is in the Hall of Fame and the only tight end ahead of Witten both in yards ( 15,127 to 12,997 ) and receptions ( 1,325 to 1,215 ) .
Over his last three seasons , Witten hasn ’ t averaged 10.0 yards per catch .
Witten won ’ t get 63 receptions in 2020 , not with Waller around as well as first-round draft pick Henry Ruggs III , Tyrell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keep in mind that no offensive player other than Derek Carr will handle the ball more than second-year back Josh Jacobs .
Not only that , but tight end Foster Moreau had an eye-opening rookie season that included five touchdown catches and played 36 percent of the snaps until a knee injury ended his season at 13 games .
Salary often tells the tale about what we can expect , and in Witten ’ s case , he ’ s scheduled to make $ 4 million — down a $ 1 million from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the 22nd highest salaried tight end in terms of yearly salary .
Gruden already has begun cashing in on Witten ’ s presence , having him address the team in a Zoom conference .
Witten played 16 seasons in Jerry Jones ’ three-ring circus under Dave Campo , Bill Parcells Wade Phillips and Jason Garrett so he ’ s seen the good and the bad and has a broad perspective on playing in a fishbowl showplace as the Raiders embark on their first year in Las Vegas .
Derek Carr should be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vinny Testaverde , Drew Bledsoe , Tony Romo , Jon Kitna and Dak Prescott .
Chances are Witten won ’ t match his rookie total of 35 receptions in 2003 .
But if all goes the way Gruden and general manager Mike Mayock expect , he ’ ll be worth it .
Witten at some point will become the 10th member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame who built their reputations elsewhere before the Raiders beckoned .
A rundown including the year or years they played for the Raiders : Ron Mix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final season with the Raiders after a distinguished career with the Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers .
His position coach at USC was Al Davis , and Davis was on the Chargers staff before he came to Oakland .
Eric Dickerson ( 1992 ) : The Colts ’ and Rams ’ great was at the end of the line when he joined the Raiders and gained 729 yards and averaged 3.9 yards per carry at age 32 .
Marcus Allen , meanwhile , was in his last year of roster exile under Davis before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his career with a flourish .
Ronnie Lott ( 1991-92 ) : The 49ers erred in letting Lott go in what was called “ Plan B ” free agency , and Lott had eight interceptions in his first year with the Raiders as well as diffusing a volatile post-game situation involving Charles Haley in the 49ers locker room .
James Lofton ( 1987-88 ) : Lost in a glut of receivers that included Dokie Williams , Mervyn Fernandez , Jessie Hester , Willie Gault and young Tim Brown , Lofton gladly left for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ him in Canton in 2003 .
Bob Brown : ( 1971-73 ) : Punishing right tackle excelled with Raiders after similarly dominating seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams .
A first-team and second-team All-Pro during his Oakland years .
Rod Woodson : ( 2002-03 ) : Had his last great year after joining Raiders in free agency , intercepting eight passes , returning three for touchdowns .
His 97-yard return when the Raiders were 4-4 in Denver turned the season around and was the 12th and final TD return of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2001-04 ) : Rejuvenated under Gruden after being phased out in favor of Terrell Owens , Rice caught 174 passes for 2,350 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2001-02 at age 39 and 40 before dipping in terms of production in 2003 .
Dealt to Seattle not long after being angry after 274 game reception streak ended under Norv Turner .
Warren Sapp : ( 2004-07 ) : Had his final double-digit season in sacks with 10 in 2006 after the Raiders finally quit tinkering with his role and turned Sapp loose as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ largely built with Tampa Bay , with 77 of his 96 1/2 sacks .
Randy Moss : ( 2005-06 ) : Looked the part of a Hall of Famer for first four games of Raiders career after being acquired by trade with 24 receptions for 466 yards .
Injuries and disinterest marked the rest of his Raiders tenure .
Was traded to New England after a 42-catch , 553 yards season in 2007 and responded by catching 23 touchdown passes .
The NFL lifted its prohibition on tryouts that had been in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teams that would like to give a look-see to defensive end Jadeveon Clowney can schedule something with the most highly regarded free agent still on the market .
Clowney supposedly wants $ 20 million per season and reportedly rejected a Seattle offer of $ 18.5 million in April .
Teams are understandably reluctant given Clowney ’ s medical issues since he was the No .
1 overall pick in the 2014 draft .
They ’ re also unable to take their eyes off the video screen when Clowney is at his unblockable best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4.275 million under the salary cap according to overthecap.com .
Those numbers can be overcome , but it usually takes restructuring existing deals , adding years to contracts and paying bonus money in place of salary .
Probably the only way the Raiders could make it happen is with an incentive-laden deal , and a reduced cap because of reduced revenues in the coronavirus environment in 2021 would make next year problematic as well .
The other defensive end looking for a team is Yannick Ngakoue of Jacksonville , who is sitting out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ franchise figure of over $ 13.9 million .
He remains under Jacksonville control and is hoping to force a trade .
It ’ s probably way more than the Raiders would be willing to part with both in terms of money or draft capital .
If it isn ’ t enough for East Bay Raiders fans to see the stream of photos from their state-of-the-art facility , all the signage from their Harbor Bay Parkway home since 1996 was removed from the front of the facility recently .
The Raiders have been moving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back lot signs having already been packed for Henderson , Nevada .
If that ’ s not enough heartache , Ricky ’ s Sports Lounge , which played host to Gruden ’ s return to coaching in 2018 and has been the quintessential Raiders Bay Area sports bar , is struggling and may not survive the pandemic .
As of Tuesday night , a Gofundme page had raised under $ 14,000 of a $ 100,000 goal .

The Raiders have a history of trying to wring one last big year out of established stars, and the signing of tight end Jason Witten on the first day of free agency is no different.
A word of advice: if all goes according to plan, Witten’s contributions will be more intangible than statistical.
From a fantasy perspective, other than Witten getting a few touchdowns in the red zone, it’s better to stick with the plan to draft Darren Waller.
Witten, 38, seems to understand where he’s at in his career based on his expansive Zoom conference with reporters Monday.
“I think when you get to this age, it’s all about the fit and the role and it made a lot of sense for me,” Witten said.
Other than his rookie year with the Dallas Cowboys in 2003 and his temporary retirement to join the ESPN Monday Night Football booth in 2018, Witten has been like a metronome, catching no fewer than 63 passes 15 times with a high of 110 in 2012. He’s not a deep threat, never having averaged 12.0 yards per reception, nor is he as talented as Tony Gonzalez, the former Cal star who is in the Hall of Fame and the only tight end ahead of Witten both in yards (15,127 to 12,997) and receptions (1,325 to 1,215).
Over his last three seasons, Witten hasn’t averaged 10.0 yards per catch.
Witten won’t get 63 receptions in 2020, not with Waller around as well as first-round draft pick Henry Ruggs III, Tyrell Williams and slot receiver Hunter Renfrow. Keep in mind that no offensive player other than Derek Carr will handle the ball more than second-year back Josh Jacobs.
Not only that, but tight end Foster Moreau had an eye-opening rookie season that included five touchdown catches and played 36 percent of the snaps until a knee injury ended his season at 13 games.
Salary often tells the tale about what we can expect, and in Witten’s case, he’s scheduled to make $4 million — down a $1 million from what he got in Dallas last year and the 22nd highest salaried tight end in terms of yearly salary.
Gruden already has begun cashing in on Witten’s presence, having him address the team in a Zoom conference.
Witten played 16 seasons in Jerry Jones’ three-ring circus under Dave Campo, Bill Parcells Wade Phillips and Jason Garrett so he’s seen the good and the bad and has a broad perspective on playing in a fishbowl showplace as the Raiders embark on their first year in Las Vegas.
Derek Carr should be a smooth transition after Quincy Carter, Vinny Testaverde, Drew Bledsoe, Tony Romo, Jon Kitna and Dak Prescott.
Chances are Witten won’t match his rookie total of 35 receptions in 2003. But if all goes the way Gruden and general manager Mike Mayock expect, he’ll be worth it.
STOPOVER TO CANTON
Witten at some point will become the 10th member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame who built their reputations elsewhere before the Raiders beckoned. A rundown including the year or years they played for the Raiders:
Ron Mix (1971): Played his final season with the Raiders after a distinguished career with the Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers. His position coach at USC was Al Davis, and Davis was on the Chargers staff before he came to Oakland.
Eric Dickerson (1992): The Colts’ and Rams’ great was at the end of the line when he joined the Raiders and gained 729 yards and averaged 3.9 yards per carry at age 32. Marcus Allen, meanwhile, was in his last year of roster exile under Davis before joining the Kansas City Chiefs and finshing his career with a flourish.
Ronnie Lott (1991-92): The 49ers erred in letting Lott go in what was called “Plan B” free agency, and Lott had eight interceptions in his first year with the Raiders as well as diffusing a volatile post-game situation involving Charles Haley in the 49ers locker room.
James Lofton (1987-88): Lost in a glut of receivers that included Dokie Williams, Mervyn Fernandez, Jessie Hester, Willie Gault and young Tim Brown, Lofton gladly left for Buffalo to resume a career that put him in Canton in 2003.
Bob Brown (1971-73): Punishing right tackle excelled with Raiders after similarly dominating seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams. A first-team and second-team All-Pro during his Oakland years.
Rod Woodson (2002-03): Had his last great year after joining Raiders in free agency, intercepting eight passes, returning three for touchdowns. His 97-yard return when the Raiders were 4-4 in Denver turned the season around and was the 12th and final TD return of his career.
Jerry Rice (2001-04): Rejuvenated under Gruden after being phased out in favor of Terrell Owens, Rice caught 174 passes for 2,350 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2001-02 at age 39 and 40 before dipping in terms of production in 2003. Dealt to Seattle not long after being angry after 274 game reception streak ended under Norv Turner.
Warren Sapp (2004-07): Had his final double-digit season in sacks with 10 in 2006 after the Raiders finally quit tinkering with his role and turned Sapp loose as a three-technique. First-ballot Hall of Fame status largely built with Tampa Bay, with 77 of his 96 1/2 sacks.
Randy Moss (2005-06): Looked the part of a Hall of Famer for first four games of Raiders career after being acquired by trade with 24 receptions for 466 yards. Injuries and disinterest marked the rest of his Raiders tenure. Was traded to New England after a 42-catch, 553 yards season in 2007 and responded by catching 23 touchdown passes.
KICKING THE TIRES ON CLOWNEY?
The NFL lifted its prohibition on tryouts that had been in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, meaning teams that would like to give a look-see to defensive end Jadeveon Clowney can schedule something with the most highly regarded free agent still on the market.
Clowney supposedly wants $20 million per season and reportedly rejected a Seattle offer of $18.5 million in April.
Teams are understandably reluctant given Clowney’s medical issues since he was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 draft. They’re also unable to take their eyes off the video screen when Clowney is at his unblockable best.
The Raiders have just under $4.275 million under the salary cap according to overthecap.com. Those numbers can be overcome, but it usually takes restructuring existing deals, adding years to contracts and paying bonus money in place of salary.
Probably the only way the Raiders could make it happen is with an incentive-laden deal, and a reduced cap because of reduced revenues in the coronavirus environment in 2021 would make next year problematic as well.
The other defensive end looking for a team is Yannick Ngakoue of Jacksonville, who is sitting out of camp rather than report for the franchise figure of over $13.9 million. He remains under Jacksonville control and is hoping to force a trade.
It’s probably way more than the Raiders would be willing to part with both in terms of money or draft capital.
Before-and-after photos of the Raiders' offices and training facility after the signage and emblem were removed from the front of their 25-year East Bay HQ in Alameda at some point in the last couple of days. They even took the flag. pic.twitter.com/jrTtopSHld — Carl Steward (@stewardsfolly) August 8, 2020
GOODBYE, EAST BAY
If it isn’t enough for East Bay Raiders fans to see the stream of photos from their state-of-the-art facility, all the signage from their Harbor Bay Parkway home since 1996 was removed from the front of the facility recently.
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If that’s not enough heartache, Ricky’s Sports Lounge, which played host to Gruden’s return to coaching in 2018 and has been the quintessential Raiders Bay Area sports bar, is struggling and may not survive the pandemic.
As of Tuesday night, a Gofundme page had raised under $14,000 of a $100,000 goal.


mercurynews--2020-08-12--49ers’ Jimmie Ward’s plot to unseat the Chiefs: ‘It’s all about the finish’

Once Jimmie Ward lassoed down Tyreek Hill on a fateful , third-and-15 completion , plenty of time minutes remained in Super Bowl LIV .
“ The last five minutes , we just didn ’ t finish , ” Ward recalled Tuesday , six months after the 49ers ’ 31-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs .
“ It seemed they wanted it more than us and that ’ s why they won the game.
” Hill ’ s 44-yard reception , after darting past cornerback Emmanuel Moseley , served as the flashpoint to the Chiefs ’ comeback and it came @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It took me a while to finally watch it , a month or two , ” Ward said of the Super Bowl .
“ Watched it 10 or 20 times .
I don ’ t know .
You have to get over it and think how you can get better until Game 1.
” Ward re-signed in March ( three years , $ 28.5 million ) to dig back into the free safety role with a one-day-at-a-time approach to a Super Bowl return .
What if the Chiefs return , too ?
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure everybody runs to the ball , ” Ward said .
“ We were doing a pretty good job of that .
They ’ ve got a lot of fast guys who can get ( yards ) after the catch , a scrambling quarterback and just finish .
“ It ’ s all about the finish.
” The 49ers are schedule to start this season Sept. 13 at Levi ’ s Stadium against the Arizona Cardinals .
Ward is entrenched at free safety , but he ’ s capable of playing elsewhere in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Super Bowl by often lining up near the line of scrimmage against slot receivers .
“ Just make sure you watch that first game because I could be playing anywhere , ” Ward added .
“ Could be playing safety , could me man coverage , could be blitzing , could be playing zone .
Who knows .
First game.
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• Coronavirus risk will force 49ers to be even more adaptable than last year ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jalen Hurd , Jerick McKinnon really looking as good as teammates say ?

Once Jimmie Ward lassoed down Tyreek Hill on a fateful, third-and-15 completion, plenty of time remained in Super Bowl LIV.
Then what happened?
“The last five minutes, we just didn’t finish,” Ward recalled Tuesday, six months after the 49ers’ 31-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. “It seemed they wanted it more than us and that’s why they won the game.”
Hill’s 44-yard reception, after darting past cornerback Emmanuel Moseley, served as the flashpoint to the Chiefs’ comeback and it came with 6 1/2 minutes remaining.
“It took me a while to finally watch it, a month or two,” Ward said of the Super Bowl. “Watched it 10 or 20 times. I don’t know. You have to get over it and think how you can get better until Game 1.”
Ward re-signed in March (three years, $28.5 million) to dig back into the free safety role with a one-day-at-a-time approach to a Super Bowl return.
What if the Chiefs return, too?
“Whenever you play the Chiefs, make sure everybody runs to the ball,” Ward said. “We were doing a pretty good job of that. They’ve got a lot of fast guys who can get (yards) after the catch, a scrambling quarterback and just finish.
“It’s all about the finish.”
The 49ers are schedule to start this season Sept. 13 at Levi’s Stadium against the Arizona Cardinals.
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“Just make sure you watch that first game because I could be playing anywhere,” Ward added. “Could be playing safety, could me man coverage, could be blitzing, could be playing zone. Who knows. First game.”


mercurynews--2020-08-12--Horoscopes Aug. 12, 2020: Cara Delevingne, stop, look and listen

Happy Birthday : Stop , look and listen .
Take nothing for granted , and don ’ t let others speak on your behalf .
A steady pace will maintain stability and help you avoid risky changes .
Generosity is best allocated thoughtfully and with care .
Look out for yourself before you take on other people ’ s burdens .
Distance yourself from those who create divisiveness and chaos .
Your numbers are 4 , 11 , 19 , 24 , 27 , 34 , 46 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Clues from your past will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use your skills .
Keeping up with the times and being vocal about how you see things unfolding will help you set the standard as you move forward .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : A change of heart will lead to an unexpected turn of events brought on by someone close to you .
Don ’ t leave anything to chance .
Get the lowdown regarding how other people feel , and you ’ ll discover how best to move forward .
3 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Inconsistency will be your downfall .
Decisions shouldn ’ t be based on emotions or trying to please others .
Do what ’ s best for you , and avoid responsibilities and burdens that don ’ t belong to you .
Take care of time-sensitive issues .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Concentrate on what you can do to save , cut corners and build a stable future .
A unique idea is worth looking at , but do not get involved in a joint venture .
Go it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Your work and personal life will face off if you haven ’ t allocated equal time to ensure you take care of all your responsibilities .
Getting organized will help you maintain the balance required to keep the peace and avoid disappointment .
2 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Taking a look at an old problem from a different angle will help you see alternative ways to bring about positive change .
Don ’ t be daunted by someone offering negative input @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and enthusiastic .
Romance is favored .
5 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Adapt if it helps you keep the peace .
Making an effort to get along will give you leverage when you need something in return .
Being helpful and accommodating aren ’ t signs of weakness ; they ’ re signs that you are responsible and mature .
3 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : You may not agree with everything you hear , but take the information that resonates with you , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to put your skills to good use .
Commit wholeheartedly to whatever path you choose to follow .
3 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : A change someone wants you to make will be overrated .
Find out what ’ s entailed before you sign up or commit to something you end up regretting .
Utilize your time to learn and incorporate what you discover into your daily routine .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : You can ’ t please everyone .
Take a step back , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incentives that will encourage others to get on board and help you with your plans .
Making alterations at home that add to your comfort and entertainment are favored .
5 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : If you want something done right , do it yourself .
Someone will put pressure on you to make changes you don ’ t want to make .
Channel your energy into a job that will benefit you , not someone else .
Avoid emotional power plays .
2 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an opportunity to make a professional or financial move .
Altering the way you live and work will not please someone close to you .
Look for a creative way to make amends and gain support to move forward with your plans .
4 stars Birthday Baby : You are changeable , sensitive and passionate .
You are determined and witty .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Imani Hakim, 27; Cara Delevingne, 28; Pete Sampras, 49; Peter Krause, 55.
Happy Birthday: Stop, look and listen. Take nothing for granted, and don’t let others speak on your behalf. A steady pace will maintain stability and help you avoid risky changes. Generosity is best allocated thoughtfully and with care. Look out for yourself before you take on other people’s burdens. Distance yourself from those who create divisiveness and chaos. Your numbers are 4, 11, 19, 24, 27, 34, 46.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Clues from your past will help when looking for new ways to use your skills. Keeping up with the times and being vocal about how you see things unfolding will help you set the standard as you move forward. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): A change of heart will lead to an unexpected turn of events brought on by someone close to you. Don’t leave anything to chance. Get the lowdown regarding how other people feel, and you’ll discover how best to move forward. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Make up your mind. Inconsistency will be your downfall. Decisions shouldn’t be based on emotions or trying to please others. Do what’s best for you, and avoid responsibilities and burdens that don’t belong to you. Take care of time-sensitive issues. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Concentrate on what you can do to save, cut corners and build a stable future. A unique idea is worth looking at, but do not get involved in a joint venture. Go it alone or take a pass. 4 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Your work and personal life will face off if you haven’t allocated equal time to ensure you take care of all your responsibilities. Getting organized will help you maintain the balance required to keep the peace and avoid disappointment. 2 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Taking a look at an old problem from a different angle will help you see alternative ways to bring about positive change. Don’t be daunted by someone offering negative input or criticism. Choose to be upbeat and enthusiastic. Romance is favored. 5 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Adapt if it helps you keep the peace. Making an effort to get along will give you leverage when you need something in return. Being helpful and accommodating aren’t signs of weakness; they’re signs that you are responsible and mature. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You may not agree with everything you hear, but take the information that resonates with you, and it will help you find a new way to put your skills to good use. Commit wholeheartedly to whatever path you choose to follow. 3 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A change someone wants you to make will be overrated. Find out what’s entailed before you sign up or commit to something you end up regretting. Utilize your time to learn and incorporate what you discover into your daily routine. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You can’t please everyone. Take a step back, and consider what you want. Offer incentives that will encourage others to get on board and help you with your plans. Making alterations at home that add to your comfort and entertainment are favored. 5 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If you want something done right, do it yourself. Someone will put pressure on you to make changes you don’t want to make. Channel your energy into a job that will benefit you, not someone else. Avoid emotional power plays. 2 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t ignore an opportunity to make a professional or financial move. Altering the way you live and work will not please someone close to you. Look for a creative way to make amends and gain support to move forward with your plans. 4 stars
Birthday Baby: You are changeable, sensitive and passionate. You are determined and witty.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Word Game: Aug. 12, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — ENGRAVE ( ENGRAVE : en-GRAVE : To carve , cut or etch a design or @ @ @ @ @ you find 33 or more words in ENGRAVE ?
The list will be published tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ Game book , visit WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies @ @ @ @ @ must be of four or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters @ @ @ @ @ s , ” such as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not @ @ @ @ @ words made by adding a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not @ @ @ @ @ , if “ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” @ @ @ @ @ “ bake ” and “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , @ @ @ @ @ or sexually explicit words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — ENGRAVE (ENGRAVE: en-GRAVE: To carve, cut or etch a design or letters into.)
Average mark 24 words
Time limit 35 minutes
Can you find 33 or more words in ENGRAVE? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — FEUDIST fetid fetus feud fist fuse edit etui used deft deist
diet dues duet dust duties ides side sift site stud sued suet suit suite tide tied
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.


Bridge: Aug. 12, 2020

Cy the Cynic struggles with his weight .
Trying to shape up , he hired a personal trainer .
When Cy was declarer at today ’ s 3NT , West led the eight of hearts : deuce , nine , jack .
Cy led a diamond to dummy ’ s jack , and East took the king and shifted to the seven of clubs .
Cy finessed with his queen , and West won and shifted back to hearts .
East played low .
Cy won and had eight tricks : three diamonds , two clubs , two hearts and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to dummy and let the jack of spades ride , but West produced the king and led his last heart , and East took the ace and his fourth heart .
Down one .
East-West defended strongly , but the Cynic ’ s play was weak .
Cy failed to count winners and losers .
He must put up the ace on the first club , lead a diamond to dummy and finesse in spades .
He wins three spades — nine tricks in all — and the defense has only one trick @ @ @ @ @ @ @ S J 10 4 H Q 4 2 D A Q J 9 C 8 5 3 .
The dealer , at your left , opens one spade .
Your partner doubles , you respond two diamonds and he bids two hearts .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Since partner doubled before bidding a suit , he has substantial extra strength .
If he held a hand such as 6 , A J 10 7 6 3 , K 6 5 , A 10 2 , he would have started with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Your hand was almost worth a game-invitational jump to three diamonds earlier .

Cy the Cynic struggles with his weight. Trying to shape up, he hired a personal trainer.
“How is that going?” I asked.
“He quit,” the Cynic sighed. “He gave me a too-weak notice.”
When Cy was declarer at today’s 3NT, West led the eight of hearts: deuce, nine, jack. Cy led a diamond to dummy’s jack, and East took the king and shifted to the seven of clubs. Cy finessed with his queen, and West won and shifted back to hearts. East played low.
EIGHT TRICKS
Cy won and had eight tricks: three diamonds, two clubs, two hearts and a spade. He led a diamond to dummy and let the jack of spades ride, but West produced the king and led his last heart, and East took the ace and his fourth heart. Down one.
East-West defended strongly, but the Cynic’s play was weak. Cy failed to count winners and losers. He must put up the ace on the first club, lead a diamond to dummy and finesse in spades. He wins three spades — nine tricks in all — and the defense has only one trick in each suit.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S J 10 4 H Q 4 2 D A Q J 9 C 8 5 3. The dealer, at your left, opens one spade. Your partner doubles, you respond two diamonds and he bids two hearts. What do you say?
ANSWER: Since partner doubled before bidding a suit, he has substantial extra strength. If he held a hand such as 6, A J 10 7 6 3, K 6 5, A 10 2, he would have started with a two-heart overcall. Bid four hearts. Your hand was almost worth a game-invitational jump to three diamonds earlier.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S J 10 4
H Q 4 2
D A Q J 9
C 8 5 3
WEST
S K 7 3
H 8 7 6
D 8 4 3 2
C K 9 4
EAST
S 8 5 2
H A 10 9 5
D K 7
C 10 7 6 2
SOUTH
S A Q 9 6
H K J 3
D 10 6 5
C A Q J
South West North East
1 NT Pass 3 NT All Pass
Opening lead — H 8
(C)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-08-12--Ask Amy: I can’t voice an opinion without risking my wife’s rage

Dear Amy : My wife and I have been married for a long time .
We are in our 60s .
Several times now when “ Millie ” feels slighted by a friend , I have mentioned a mitigating reason that the alleged offensive act is not so bad as it might seem .
Millie goes into a rage and charges me with “ not supporting ” her .
She says I am telling her that she is not entitled to her feelings .
I think that I am supporting her by suggesting that she doesn ’ t have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is punishing me for having an opinion .
Millie seems to believe that rage is a proportionate response to my stating something that is not quite what she wants to hear .
She claims that I could state my objection a different way without “ judging ” her .
I don ’ t know how that is possible because any disagreement is a judgment on the other person ’ s point of view .
• Ask Amy : I know he has photos of me , but he won ’ t hand them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we played in school was so wrong , and the teacher is still teaching • Ask Amy : My wife is furious that these little kids don ’ t follow her tidy rules • Ask Amy : He ‘ only dates models.
’ Unfortunately , it ’ s me that he got pregnant .
Millie also says that I regularly disagree with her , seemingly for the sake of being contrary , “ even though I don ’ t realize it.
” By my mind , she is becoming intolerant of my having @ @ @ @ @ @ @ love Millie and generally have enjoyed living together , but I can ’ t abide with living in fear of saying anything besides “ yes , dear.
” How can we find some middle ground ?
Dear Mindful : Some of what you describe could broadly be categorized as differences in communication styles typical for males and females .
The “ Mars/Venus ” stereotype seems to fit your example .
Using this stereotype , a woman wants to share her feelings and mainly be “ heard.
” She is seeking supportive commiseration : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m sorry that happened.
” Men hear about a personal scenario and tend to problem-solve first , and commiserate later .
Your wife perceives your problem-solving as you negating her feelings , even though that is not your intention .
You telling Millie that she “ doesn ’ t have to feel so offended ” is really you telling her how she “ should ” feel — and nobody gets to tell another person how to feel .
You should not have to universally agree with your wife .
You should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opinion , ” but why do you have an opinion about a personal dynamic between Millie and her friend ?
Why do you have an opinion about her feelings ?
Family members are great at noticing patterns .
( I will never forget the day my sister pointed out a pattern concerning the way I typically responded to a frustration — it was a game-changer for me . )
Because you notice a pattern , you should mention it .
Stick with describing her behavior , not her feelings .
You two should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and you should both make changes , in order to shift your dynamic .
A couples counselor could definitely help .
Dear Amy : I have a friend who very recently exited a toxic relationship .
Recently , she told me that she ’ s “ talking ” with the same person .
I ’ m not sure this is healthy for her , but I don ’ t know how to approach the topic .
Is it even my place to question her ?
I don ’ t know what to do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you can truthfully reflect back some of the things you witnessed during her relationship : “ This person wasn ’ t nice to you .
You didn ’ t seem to feel good about yourself .
I worried about you when you were together.
” Regardless of how she responds or reacts , I hope you will hang in there with her .
If she falls into this relationship again , she will need your friendship .
Dear Amy : “ Upset ” wrote to you about her parents ’ risky choices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ miles away and seemed to be going out and meeting with friends , and she was extremely worried about them .
I stayed away from my parents for the first three months of COVID-19 , and so did my sister .
My sister left our parents ’ essential needs at their front door and then phoned them to let them know it was there .
Finally , my dad phoned me and said : “ Come on over .
Your mother and I would rather die of COVID-19 than of loneliness.
” At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they have earned their right to choose .
What do you think ?
Dear Loving : I completely agree with you — and them .
There are ways to mitigate the risk — to them and to you — and I hope you will all choose to be together , while maintaining your togetherness as safely as possible .
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 @ @ @ @ @

Dear Amy: My wife and I have been married for a long time. We are in our 60s.
Several times now when “Millie” feels slighted by a friend, I have mentioned a mitigating reason that the alleged offensive act is not so bad as it might seem.
Millie goes into a rage and charges me with “not supporting” her. She says I am telling her that she is not entitled to her feelings.
I think that I am supporting her by suggesting that she doesn’t have to feel so offended. Also, she is punishing me for having an opinion.
Millie seems to believe that rage is a proportionate response to my stating something that is not quite what she wants to hear.
She claims that I could state my objection a different way without “judging” her. I don’t know how that is possible because any disagreement is a judgment on the other person’s point of view.
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By my mind, she is becoming intolerant of my having my own views on things.
I love Millie and generally have enjoyed living together, but I can’t abide with living in fear of saying anything besides “yes, dear.”
How can we find some middle ground?
Mindful
Dear Mindful: Some of what you describe could broadly be categorized as differences in communication styles typical for males and females. The “Mars/Venus” stereotype seems to fit your example.
Using this stereotype, a woman wants to share her feelings and mainly be “heard.” She is seeking supportive commiseration: “That sounds so frustrating.” “I’m sorry that happened.”
Men hear about a personal scenario and tend to problem-solve first, and commiserate later.
Your wife perceives your problem-solving as you negating her feelings, even though that is not your intention.
You telling Millie that she “doesn’t have to feel so offended” is really you telling her how she “should” feel — and nobody gets to tell another person how to feel.
You should not have to universally agree with your wife. You should not be “punished for having an opinion,” but why do you have an opinion about a personal dynamic between Millie and her friend? Why do you have an opinion about her feelings?
Family members are great at noticing patterns. (I will never forget the day my sister pointed out a pattern concerning the way I typically responded to a frustration — it was a game-changer for me.) Because you notice a pattern, you should mention it. Stick with describing her behavior, not her feelings.
You two should talk about the way you communicate, and you should both make changes, in order to shift your dynamic. A couples counselor could definitely help.
Dear Amy: I have a friend who very recently exited a toxic relationship. Recently, she told me that she’s “talking” with the same person.
I’m not sure this is healthy for her, but I don’t know how to approach the topic. Is it even my place to question her? I don’t know what to do.
Concerned Friend
Dear Concerned: As a friend, you can truthfully reflect back some of the things you witnessed during her relationship: “This person wasn’t nice to you. You didn’t seem to feel good about yourself. I worried about you when you were together.”
Regardless of how she responds or reacts, I hope you will hang in there with her. If she falls into this relationship again, she will need your friendship.
Dear Amy: “Upset” wrote to you about her parents’ risky choices during the pandemic. They lived 3,000 miles away and seemed to be going out and meeting with friends, and she was extremely worried about them.
I stayed away from my parents for the first three months of COVID-19, and so did my sister. My sister left our parents’ essential needs at their front door and then phoned them to let them know it was there.
Finally, my dad phoned me and said: “Come on over. Your mother and I would rather die of COVID-19 than of loneliness.”
At ages 91 and 87, I believe they have earned their right to choose. What do you think?
Loving Child
Dear Loving: I completely agree with you — and them. There are ways to mitigate the risk — to them and to you — and I hope you will all choose to be together, while maintaining your togetherness as safely as possible.
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--2020-08-12--Harriette Cole: Strangers tell undecided student what to major in

DEAR READERS : So many of you had ideas for the student who was undecided when it came to determining a major in college and , in turn , a career path that I am printing a few of your letters here .
Thank you for such great input .
DEAR HARRIETTE : I thought your answer to “ Undeclared ” was good , but it would have been helpful to include financial points as well .
What do the various career paths pay ?
What will the required education cost ?
Will they have to incur debt ?
Will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back and still support themselves on the pay they earn in each option ?
How many jobs are available in the fields they are considering ?
These answers will prepare the student to make realistic choices that they are less likely to regret in 10 years .
I would also encourage the student to consider a field with multiple career options rather than one with limited options .
I wish career planning software , similar to the sophisticated retirement planning software we used to plan our retirements , were widely available to students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s ” question about choosing a major , I think my mother ’ s advice when I was a student was wise .
She said if you ’ re not sure about a major , go with a professor who inspires you .
No matter what subject they teach , you ’ ll learn the most from them .
• Harriette Cole : He told me to decide what to pay him , which is so awkward • Harriette Cole : Have I been blind to my white friends ’ true feelings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , no blow-dry , and a $ 68 tab ?
Yes , I ’ m annoyed .
• Harriette Cole : I don ’ t want her married on my wedding date , no matter what year DEAR HARRIETTE : I have three kids who went through college .
My advice to kids who are not sure of a major is to go the community college route and take as many courses as you can in all the disciplines you are interested in and see which is the one you really like and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ college is cheaper and will let you take any course you want .
If the student can maintain decent grades , they can transfer to a four-year college later .
DEAR HARRIETTE : Please allow me to expand on your excellent advice to a student seeking a college major .
Most universities offer counseling or testing centers that help with this common problem , usually at no charge for enrolled students .
Typically , a student completes an online inventory that helps to identify his or her interests ; a computer program then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interests have been successful .
Pursuing these options in more detail often helps a student select an appropriate major .
Alternatively , if the student does not wish to complete the interest inventory , or after narrowing to a few tentatively attractive areas of interest , the student can consult a wonderful reference called the “ Dictionary of Occupational Titles ” — a comprehensive reference published by the U.S. Department of Labor that provides details on a wide variety of occupations .
It includes the education and training required , job locations , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Please share this information with students who need help as they consider their future goals .
DEAR ALL : I appreciate your thoughtful input and see that we all are interested in supporting our youth as they work to figure out their futures .
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 READERS: So many of you had ideas for the student who was undecided when it came to determining a major in college and, in turn, a career path that I am printing a few of your letters here. Thank you for such great input.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I thought your answer to “Undeclared” was good, but it would have been helpful to include financial points as well. What do the various career paths pay? What will the required education cost? Will they have to incur debt? Will they be able to pay the debt back and still support themselves on the pay they earn in each option?
How many jobs are available in the fields they are considering? These answers will prepare the student to make realistic choices that they are less likely to regret in 10 years.
I would also encourage the student to consider a field with multiple career options rather than one with limited options. I wish career planning software, similar to the sophisticated retirement planning software we used to plan our retirements, were widely available to students.
Long-Term View
DEAR HARRIETTE: Regarding “Undeclared’s” question about choosing a major, I think my mother’s advice when I was a student was wise. She said if you’re not sure about a major, go with a professor who inspires you. No matter what subject they teach, you’ll learn the most from them.
English Major
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Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend Advice | Harriette Cole: I’ve worked hard, and my poor siblings resent my success DEAR HARRIETTE: I have three kids who went through college. My advice to kids who are not sure of a major is to go the community college route and take as many courses as you can in all the disciplines you are interested in and see which is the one you really like and could make into a career. Community college is cheaper and will let you take any course you want. If the student can maintain decent grades, they can transfer to a four-year college later.
Community College
DEAR HARRIETTE: Please allow me to expand on your excellent advice to a student seeking a college major. Most universities offer counseling or testing centers that help with this common problem, usually at no charge for enrolled students. Typically, a student completes an online inventory that helps to identify his or her interests; a computer program then lists areas in which graduates with similar interests have been successful. Pursuing these options in more detail often helps a student select an appropriate major.
Alternatively, if the student does not wish to complete the interest inventory, or after narrowing to a few tentatively attractive areas of interest, the student can consult a wonderful reference called the “Dictionary of Occupational Titles” — a comprehensive reference published by the U.S. Department of Labor that provides details on a wide variety of occupations. It includes the education and training required, job locations, typical duties, salary range, etc.
Please share this information with students who need help as they consider their future goals.
Retired Professor
DEAR ALL: I appreciate your thoughtful input and see that we all are interested in supporting our youth as they work to figure out their futures.
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--2020-08-12--Miss Manners: When a stranger shames a mask scofflaw, it doesn’t end well

DEAR MISS MANNERS : During this pandemic , it is strongly suggested ( and in some areas , required ) that we wear masks when in public .
I have seen many people ignoring this suggestion/requirement .
What is the best way to point out to them that they are endangering not only themselves , but those of us who are unfortunate enough to be near them ?
GENTLE READER : They already know .
Do you imagine that they have escaped hearing that masks are recommended , if not required , and why ?
Miss Manners has long tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not reform when shamed by strangers .
Rather , they fight back .
She supposes you could carry wrapped masks and say , “ I have an extra mask if you need one.
” But surely the best way to protect yourself is not to confront such people , but to move quickly away from them .
• Miss Manners : This guy I barely know asks me for ‘ just a sip ’ • Miss Manners : Do I have the right to feel hurt about their wedding ?
• Miss Manners @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at me • Miss Manners : I said I was sorry , and they responded by belittling me • Miss Manners : I scold pedestrians in the bike lane .
Am I doing it right ?
DEAR MISS MANNERS : I was raised to believe that one should always stand up to greet anyone who was older , or in a position of authority .
My conundrum is that I , a female , am much taller than my veterinarian , a female of a similar age .
I am not exceptionally tall @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but the height difference is significant enough to make it awkward when she has to look up at me to advise me about my pets .
I greatly respect her professional skills , and sincerely like her as a person .
Would it be rude to remain seated while she talks to me , so that we ’ re on a similar eye level , or should I keep with the protocol of standing while addressed ?
Of course , I could always stand up to greet her and then sit back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
GENTLE READER : Have you noticed that your doctor is wearing a lab coat , even though she may not have been in a lab since graduate school ?
Miss Manners will get back to that .
Height is not the issue here : Your veterinarian is accustomed to dealing with patients significantly larger or smaller than herself .
The rule in social settings is that gentlemen rise to greet ladies , and the young rise to greet their elders .
This is reversed in a business setting : Employees rise to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ case is you , as a client .
The lab coat is your doctor ’ s way of deemphasizing the fact that , in spite of having attended medical school , she works for you .
She will be content with your remaining seated so long as you refrain from arguing with her advice based on something you read on iluuuuvmycat.com .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : If I ’ ve made a donation to a charity in someone ’ s memory , as suggested in their obituary , and ask for the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to expect a thank-you note ?
GENTLE READER : As a staunch opponent of treating such circumstances as chits , redeemable for more convenient benefits or services , Miss Manners takes some satisfaction in saying that you are now owed two thank-you letters : one from the charity , for tax purposes , and a second from the family .
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 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MO 64106 .

Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: During this pandemic, it is strongly suggested (and in some areas, required) that we wear masks when in public. I have seen many people ignoring this suggestion/requirement.
What is the best way to point out to them that they are endangering not only themselves, but those of us who are unfortunate enough to be near them?
GENTLE READER: They already know. Do you imagine that they have escaped hearing that masks are recommended, if not required, and why?
Miss Manners has long tried to make people understand that scofflaws do not reform when shamed by strangers. Rather, they fight back.
She supposes you could carry wrapped masks and say, “I have an extra mask if you need one.” But surely the best way to protect yourself is not to confront such people, but to move quickly away from them.
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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 DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was raised to believe that one should always stand up to greet anyone who was older, or in a position of authority. My conundrum is that I, a female, am much taller than my veterinarian, a female of a similar age.
I am not exceptionally tall, and she is not exceptionally diminutive, but the height difference is significant enough to make it awkward when she has to look up at me to advise me about my pets. I greatly respect her professional skills, and sincerely like her as a person.
Would it be rude to remain seated while she talks to me, so that we’re on a similar eye level, or should I keep with the protocol of standing while addressed? Of course, I could always stand up to greet her and then sit back down, if that would be better.
GENTLE READER: Have you noticed that your doctor is wearing a lab coat, even though she may not have been in a lab since graduate school? Miss Manners will get back to that.
Height is not the issue here: Your veterinarian is accustomed to dealing with patients significantly larger or smaller than herself.
The rule in social settings is that gentlemen rise to greet ladies, and the young rise to greet their elders. This is reversed in a business setting: Employees rise to greet the boss — which in this case is you, as a client.
The lab coat is your doctor’s way of deemphasizing the fact that, in spite of having attended medical school, she works for you. She will be content with your remaining seated so long as you refrain from arguing with her advice based on something you read on iluuuuvmycat.com.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: If I’ve made a donation to a charity in someone’s memory, as suggested in their obituary, and ask for the family to be notified, am I wrong to expect a thank-you note?
GENTLE READER: As a staunch opponent of treating such circumstances as chits, redeemable for more convenient benefits or services, Miss Manners takes some satisfaction in saying that you are now owed two thank-you letters: one from the charity, for tax purposes, and a second from the family.
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--2020-08-12--Dear Abby: They treat him like a hero because they believe his lies

DEAR ABBY : My father is 87 and has stage 4 cancer .
For years he has lied about being a hospital corpsman in the Navy during the Korean War .
My parents live in a retirement community , and he talks about being in the war , while wearing a Navy baseball cap .
Dad was in the Naval Reserve ( that we know of ) but never saw combat .
Veterans ’ groups are always bringing him quilts , food , etc .
My mom is horrified and doesn ’ t know what to say when he goes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by shrapnel while pulling a fellow naval guy out of a burning building .
He will pass away soon , and the veterans ’ groups will be giving Mom a flag he doesn ’ t deserve .
Mom doesn ’ t know what to do .
Should we just ignore the antics or say something ?
Please help .
• Dear Abby : She ’ s sweet to all the men in the office except me , and I ’ m hurt • Dear Abby : I suspect my wife is up to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my friend ’ s behavior warrant an intervention ?
• Dear Abby : Everyone thinks we should be a couple , but he won ’ t make a move • Dear Abby : I ’ m haunted by the fear that I cost her a job DEAR UNCERTAIN : What your father has been doing is called “ stolen valor ” or “ stolen honor , ” and it is seriously frowned upon by people who have actually earned it .
It is a form of fraud .
However , anyone who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discharged is entitled to be given a flag when he or she is buried .
It will be folded and presented to your mother .
As to the gifts he is receiving from the veterans ’ groups , suggest that because your father is now so close to the end , they be given to other vets who can use them .
DEAR ABBY : I ’ ve been dating a very sweet girl for the last four months , and I ’ m starting to have serious feelings for her .
My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sat me down the other night and told me she ’ s transgender .
I ’ m crushed , and I don ’ t know what to do .
This blows my mind ; please give me any guidance .
I care a lot about this person , and I just want to cry .
DEAR CRUSHED : You say you are starting to have serious feelings for this girl , who is not only sweet , but also honest .
If you are worried what others might think if they find out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ birth , then she ’ s not the girl for you .
Because she has laid all her cards on the table , take this as an opportunity to have a series of frank conversations with her about what challenges might lie ahead for the both of you if this romance progresses .
DEAR ABBY : My husband and I are in our 60s and have a swimming pool that our kids and grandkids like to visit .
Our issue is that our granddaughter wears a bathing suit that shows her bum .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ but close to it .
She ’ s 16 and starting her junior year of high school this year .
It makes my husband and me uncomfortable , and we have told my daughter as much .
Is this one of those situations where we either accept it or don ’ t allow her to swim with such a suit ?
I love my granddaughter and will put up with the way it makes us feel if that is where the line is drawn , but it is hard for us to understand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they dress the same way .
What do you advise ?
DEAR GRANDPARENTS : Because you and your spouse are uncomfortable with the amount of exposure your granddaughter and her friends display when they come to swim , you have the right to tell them to wear something less revealing .
It ’ s your pool , and the bottom line is it ’ s your privilege to set the rules .
Be prepared , however , for your granddaughter to not want to use your pool as often in the future .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: My father is 87 and has stage 4 cancer. For years he has lied about being a hospital corpsman in the Navy during the Korean War. My parents live in a retirement community, and he talks about being in the war, while wearing a Navy baseball cap. Dad was in the Naval Reserve (that we know of) but never saw combat.
Veterans’ groups are always bringing him quilts, food, etc. My mom is horrified and doesn’t know what to say when he goes on a rant about having been hit by shrapnel while pulling a fellow naval guy out of a burning building.
He will pass away soon, and the veterans’ groups will be giving Mom a flag he doesn’t deserve. Mom doesn’t know what to do. Should we just ignore the antics or say something? Please help.
UNCERTAIN IN FLORIDA
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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 DEAR UNCERTAIN: What your father has been doing is called “stolen valor” or “stolen honor,” and it is seriously frowned upon by people who have actually earned it. It is a form of fraud. However, anyone who has served in the military and been honorably discharged is entitled to be given a flag when he or she is buried. It will be folded and presented to your mother.
As to the gifts he is receiving from the veterans’ groups, suggest that because your father is now so close to the end, they be given to other vets who can use them.
DEAR ABBY: I’ve been dating a very sweet girl for the last four months, and I’m starting to have serious feelings for her. My children really like her. But she sat me down the other night and told me she’s transgender.
I’m crushed, and I don’t know what to do. This blows my mind; please give me any guidance. I care a lot about this person, and I just want to cry.
CRUSHED IN THE SOUTH
DEAR CRUSHED: You say you are starting to have serious feelings for this girl, who is not only sweet, but also honest. If you are worried what others might think if they find out she wasn’t assigned female at birth, then she’s not the girl for you.
Because she has laid all her cards on the table, take this as an opportunity to have a series of frank conversations with her about what challenges might lie ahead for the both of you if this romance progresses.
DEAR ABBY: My husband and I are in our 60s and have a swimming pool that our kids and grandkids like to visit. Our issue is that our granddaughter wears a bathing suit that shows her bum. It isn’t a thong, but close to it.
She’s 16 and starting her junior year of high school this year. It makes my husband and me uncomfortable, and we have told my daughter as much. Is this one of those situations where we either accept it or don’t allow her to swim with such a suit?
I love my granddaughter and will put up with the way it makes us feel if that is where the line is drawn, but it is hard for us to understand. When she brings her friends, they dress the same way. What do you advise?
UNCOMFORTABLE GRANDPARENTS
DEAR GRANDPARENTS: Because you and your spouse are uncomfortable with the amount of exposure your granddaughter and her friends display when they come to swim, you have the right to tell them to wear something less revealing. It’s your pool, and the bottom line is it’s your privilege to set the rules. Be prepared, however, for your granddaughter to not want to use your pool as often in the future.
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--2020-08-13--California is ‘turning a corner’ on coronavirus pandemic, Newsom says

California appears to have turned a corner after a swell of coronavirus cases and hospitalizations earlier this summer , though the path toward economic recovery remains more precarious than ever .
Hospitalizations have dropped to the lowest point in nearly six weeks , new caseloads have slowed down and the death toll has begun to level off — all “ encouraging ” signs that the virus ’ s grip has lessened in recent weeks , Gov .
Gavin Newsom said Wednesday .
But that positive message came as many out-of-work Californians anxiously wait key decisions on eviction and unemployment policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that connect to some optimism that what we ’ re doing as a state … that what you are doing is working , ” Newsom said , adding , “ We want to continue to see these numbers go down.
” In early July , Californians who got sick in the early weeks of summer began flooding hospital beds — prompting Newsom to shut down more sectors of the economy by the middle of the month .
Hospitalizations statewide quickly ramped up to an all-time peak with more than 7,000 patients by July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shed a whopping 22 % of patients and hitting 5,549 as of Tuesday .
New cases , meanwhile , have also dropped off — a trend that was initially questioned after a series of errors led the state to accidentally backlog up to 300,000 lab records .
Over the weekend , the state began processing those records , which counties are now analyzing and adding to their own data platforms .
Of the state ’ s approximately 12,000 new cases Tuesday , about half represented backlogged data , Newsom said .
On Wednesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and 161 new deaths , according to data compiled by this news organization .
“ It ’ s a little bit more optimistic , ” Newsom said of the declining case numbers .
“ Again , another indication that we ’ re turning a corner on this pandemic.
” Even so , California is hovering in the highest plateau of COVID-19 deaths since the pandemic began .
After reporting the most deaths ever in a single day — 215 — on July 31st , the state ’ s seven-day average of deaths has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
Before mid-July , that average had never scraped 100 .
Those numbers are likely to stabilize throughout August and the sickest patients among the dwindling wave of hospitalizations pass away , said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong , an epidemiologist with University of California , San Francisco .
The seven-day average for weekly deaths already dropped down to 135 as of Tuesday .
After that , Chin-Hong said , new cases and hospitalizations will hit another trough — before people get antsy to go out , schools and businesses reopen and parties resume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet another peak of infections in the early fall .
“ It ’ ll be the unfortunate roller coaster of COVID , ” Chin-Hong said .
Newsom , for his part , seemed determined to avoid that fate .
When asked about the next potential wave of reopenings , he said that his office will use a “ much more intentional and deliberate mindset ” to promote safe practices and behaviors .
How many of those decisions will play out , however , remains largely up in the air .
Even as California @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for unemployment since mid-March , the state hasn ’ t delivered payments to more than 1 million of them whose claims remain stuck in the bureaucratic process .
That burden only increased with the loss of the $ 600 weekly federal unemployment dollars at the end of July .
At the same time , the future of the statewide eviction moratorium is in flux after the Judicial Council of California said it would likely end the ban on September 1st — potentially leaving millions of renters on the hook .
Even as Newson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will consider to jumpstart the economy — like streamlining small business permits and developing a new tax credit — the governor offered no immediate promises on either front .
His team plans to process unemployment dollars “ as quickly and efficiently as possible ” while waiting for the federal government to step up , he said .
Economist Stephen Levy , director of the Palo Alto-based Center for Continuing Study of the California Economy , said that Newsom ’ s biggest focus ought to be on stemming coronavirus ’ spread .
Until cases @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is impossible , Levy added .
“ He can ’ t mint money , and we don ’ t have the budget resources to put up four hundred or six hundred dollars ourselves , ” Levy said .
“ He has really limited options besides getting the pandemic under control — and he ’ s kind of limited there , too .
”

California appears to have turned a corner after a swell of coronavirus cases and hospitalizations earlier this summer, though the path toward economic recovery remains more precarious than ever.
Hospitalizations have dropped to the lowest point in nearly six weeks, new caseloads have slowed down and the death toll has begun to level off — all “encouraging” signs that the virus’s grip has lessened in recent weeks, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Wednesday. But that positive message came as many out-of-work Californians anxiously wait key decisions on eviction and unemployment policies.
“These are specific proof points that connect to some optimism that what we’re doing as a state … that what you are doing is working,” Newsom said, adding, “We want to continue to see these numbers go down.”
In early July, Californians who got sick in the early weeks of summer began flooding hospital beds — prompting Newsom to shut down more sectors of the economy by the middle of the month. Hospitalizations statewide quickly ramped up to an all-time peak with more than 7,000 patients by July 21st; since then, California has shed a whopping 22% of patients and hitting 5,549 as of Tuesday.
New cases, meanwhile, have also dropped off — a trend that was initially questioned after a series of errors led the state to accidentally backlog up to 300,000 lab records. Over the weekend, the state began processing those records, which counties are now analyzing and adding to their own data platforms. Of the state’s approximately 12,000 new cases Tuesday, about half represented backlogged data, Newsom said.
On Wednesday, California counties reported 8,346 new cases and 161 new deaths, according to data compiled by this news organization.
“It’s a little bit more optimistic,” Newsom said of the declining case numbers. “Again, another indication that we’re turning a corner on this pandemic.”
Even so, California is hovering in the highest plateau of COVID-19 deaths since the pandemic began. After reporting the most deaths ever in a single day — 215 — on July 31st, the state’s seven-day average of deaths has remained above 125 for the past two weeks. Before mid-July, that average had never scraped 100.
Those numbers are likely to stabilize throughout August and the sickest patients among the dwindling wave of hospitalizations pass away, said Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an epidemiologist with University of California, San Francisco. The seven-day average for weekly deaths already dropped down to 135 as of Tuesday.
After that, Chin-Hong said, new cases and hospitalizations will hit another trough — before people get antsy to go out, schools and businesses reopen and parties resume, all of which could lead to yet another peak of infections in the early fall.
“It’ll be the unfortunate roller coaster of COVID,” Chin-Hong said.
Newsom, for his part, seemed determined to avoid that fate. When asked about the next potential wave of reopenings, he said that his office will use a “much more intentional and deliberate mindset” to promote safe practices and behaviors.
How many of those decisions will play out, however, remains largely up in the air. Even as California has seen about 7.31 million workers file for unemployment since mid-March, the state hasn’t delivered payments to more than 1 million of them whose claims remain stuck in the bureaucratic process. That burden only increased with the loss of the $600 weekly federal unemployment dollars at the end of July.
At the same time, the future of the statewide eviction moratorium is in flux after the Judicial Council of California said it would likely end the ban on September 1st — potentially leaving millions of renters on the hook.
Even as Newson rattled off various strategies Wednesday his team will consider to jumpstart the economy — like streamlining small business permits and developing a new tax credit — the governor offered no immediate promises on either front. His team plans to process unemployment dollars “as quickly and efficiently as possible” while waiting for the federal government to step up, he said.
Economist Stephen Levy, director of the Palo Alto-based Center for Continuing Study of the California Economy, said that Newsom’s biggest focus ought to be on stemming coronavirus’ spread. Until cases are consistently low, full economic recovery is impossible, Levy added.
“He can’t mint money, and we don’t have the budget resources to put up four hundred or six hundred dollars ourselves,” Levy said. “He has really limited options besides getting the pandemic under control — and he’s kind of limited there, too.”


mercurynews--2020-08-13--For Americans waiting virus relief, no new aid in sight

WASHINGTON — Americans counting on emergency coronavirus aid from Washington may have to wait until fall .
Negotiations over a new virus relief package have all but ended , with the White House and congressional leaders far apart on the size , scope and approach for shoring up households , re-opening schools and launching a national strategy to contain the virus .
President Donald Trump ’ s top negotiator , Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin , tried to revive stalled talks Wednesday , but House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer dismissed the “ overture , ” saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meet them halfway .
Congressional Republicans are largely sitting out the talks .
“ The White House is not budging , ” Pelosi and Schumer said in a joint statement .
With the House and Senate essentially closed , and lawmakers on call to return with 24-hours notice , hopes for a swift compromise have dwindled .
Instead , the politics of blame have taken hold , as the parties head into August focused on the presidential nominating conventions and lawmakers ’ own reelection campaigns .
Trump said the Democrats are “ holding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are talks will not resume in full until Congress resumes in September , despite the mounting death toll , surpassing 161,000 in the U.S. , and more than 5 million people infected .
For Americans , that means the end of a $ 600 weekly unemployment benefit that has expired , as has a federal ban on evictions .
Schools hoping for cash from the federal government to help provide safety measures are left empty handed .
States and cities staring down red ink with the shattered economy have few options .
Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a temporary reprieve , offering $ 300 in jobless benefits and some other aid .
But it could take weeks for those programs to ramp up , and the help is far slimmer than what Congress was considering .
More than 20 million Americans risk evictions , and more are out of work .
Mnuchin and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows briefed GOP senators privately on Wednesday .
But congressional Republicans , who have left the negotiating largely to Democrats , seem satisfied there is enough money still available from previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Majority Leader Mitch McConnell put in motion the procedural steps to recess , possibly Thursday .
The House is already gone .
Because McConnell has such cool support from his ranks for any bill , Democrats are trying to push the White House to go bold .
They want to maintain the $ 600 jobless benefit and provide nearly $ 1 trillion to the states and cities , nonstarters for the White House .
While there is some common ground over $ 100 billion for schools and new funds for virus testing , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump rejects , including to shore up the U.S .
Postal Service and election security ahead of the November election .
“ Democrats have compromised , ” Pelosi and Schumer said , noting that they dropped their initial $ 3 trillion-plus proposal by $ 1 trillion and expect Trump ’ s team to raise its $ 1 trillion offer by a similar amount to $ 2 trillion .
“ However , it is clear that the Administration still does not grasp the magnitude of the problems that American families are facing.
” Their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overture ” to meet .
The treasury secretary called the Democratic leaders on Wednesday , according to a person granted anonymity to discuss the private call .
The Democrats said they are waiting for the White House to put a new offer on the table .
“ We have again made clear to the Administration that we are willing to resume negotiations once they start to take this process seriously.
” • Distance learning is back for Bay Area schools , but will it be better this time ?
• This SF live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ music But Mnuchin shot back with his own statement , saying , “ The Democrats have no interest in negotiating.
” Mnuchin said Pelosi ’ s statement was “ not an accurate reflection of our conversation .
She made clear that she was unwilling to meet to continue negotiations unless we agreed in advance to her proposal , costing at least $ 2 trillion.
” McConnell said the American people need help and “ are not done fighting this virus.
” Associated Press writer Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed to this report .

By Lisa Mascaro | Associated Press
WASHINGTON — Americans counting on emergency coronavirus aid from Washington may have to wait until fall.
Negotiations over a new virus relief package have all but ended, with the White House and congressional leaders far apart on the size, scope and approach for shoring up households, re-opening schools and launching a national strategy to contain the virus.
President Donald Trump’s top negotiator, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, tried to revive stalled talks Wednesday, but House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer dismissed the “overture,” saying the Trump administration is still refusing to meet them halfway. Congressional Republicans are largely sitting out the talks.
“The White House is not budging,” Pelosi and Schumer said in a joint statement.
With the House and Senate essentially closed, and lawmakers on call to return with 24-hours notice, hopes for a swift compromise have dwindled. Instead, the politics of blame have taken hold, as the parties head into August focused on the presidential nominating conventions and lawmakers’ own reelection campaigns.
Trump said the Democrats are “holding the American people hostage.”
All indications are talks will not resume in full until Congress resumes in September, despite the mounting death toll, surpassing 161,000 in the U.S., and more than 5 million people infected.
For Americans, that means the end of a $600 weekly unemployment benefit that has expired, as has a federal ban on evictions. Schools hoping for cash from the federal government to help provide safety measures are left empty handed. States and cities staring down red ink with the shattered economy have few options.
Trump’s executive actions appeared to provide a temporary reprieve, offering $300 in jobless benefits and some other aid. But it could take weeks for those programs to ramp up, and the help is far slimmer than what Congress was considering. More than 20 million Americans risk evictions, and more are out of work.
Mnuchin and White House chief of staff Mark Meadows briefed GOP senators privately on Wednesday. But congressional Republicans, who have left the negotiating largely to Democrats, seem satisfied there is enough money still available from previous aid packages, for now.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell put in motion the procedural steps to recess, possibly Thursday. The House is already gone.
Because McConnell has such cool support from his ranks for any bill, Democrats are trying to push the White House to go bold. They want to maintain the $600 jobless benefit and provide nearly $1 trillion to the states and cities, nonstarters for the White House.
While there is some common ground over $100 billion for schools and new funds for virus testing, Democrats also want other emergency funds that Trump rejects, including to shore up the U.S. Postal Service and election security ahead of the November election.
“Democrats have compromised,” Pelosi and Schumer said, noting that they dropped their initial $3 trillion-plus proposal by $1 trillion and expect Trump’s team to raise its $1 trillion offer by a similar amount to $2 trillion. “However, it is clear that the Administration still does not grasp the magnitude of the problems that American families are facing.”
Their joint statement said Mnuchin made an “overture” to meet. The treasury secretary called the Democratic leaders on Wednesday, according to a person granted anonymity to discuss the private call.
The Democrats said they are waiting for the White House to put a new offer on the table. “We have again made clear to the Administration that we are willing to resume negotiations once they start to take this process seriously.”
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Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms National News | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge But Mnuchin shot back with his own statement, saying, “The Democrats have no interest in negotiating.”
Mnuchin said Pelosi’s statement was “not an accurate reflection of our conversation. She made clear that she was unwilling to meet to continue negotiations unless we agreed in advance to her proposal, costing at least $2 trillion.”
McConnell said the American people need help and “are not done fighting this virus.”
Associated Press writer Aamer Madhani in Washington contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-08-12--San Francisco Fed president on pandemic’s ‘incredibly uneven’ impact

SAN FRANCISCO — The technology industry ’ s strong performance amid an economic downturn spurred by coronavirus lockdowns could be protecting the Bay Area from some of the worst damage of the recession even as brick and mortar businesses struggles and the loss of federal unemployment benefits signal trouble ahead , San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank President Mary Daly said on Wednesday .
Daly said many businesses such as online retailers , tech firms , shipping companies and others have been doing well amid government-imposed lockdowns even as hospitality , bars and other brick and mortar industries face widespread closures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shocking ” aspect of the current financial contraction , she said .
“ It ’ s been incredibly uneven , ” she said .
“ If you just roll that up to bigger firms , you see that reflected in the stock market.
” Apple ’ s stock is up almost 87 percent since lockdown orders were imposed in the Bay Area on March 16 .
Facebook ’ s stock is up 78 percent during that time , and Alphabet ’ s stock — the parent company of Google — is up almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promising for tech , ” Daly said .
“ There ’ s not a sense that tech is being challenged right now.
” That ’ s helped maintain the region ’ s strong real estate market and to the extent that workers at tech companies are able to shop and spend money locally , they are boosting economic activity in the Bay Area .
But Daly said she ’ s more concerned with brick and mortar businesses that are being harder hit by a pandemic that has gone on much longer than anticipated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as commercial real estate companies those struggling businesses lease from .
Many businesses that in March were hoping to reopen in a few months are starting to close permanently and temporary layoffs are now turning permanent , Daly said , adding that she sees that in her own neighborhood in Oakland .
“ Businesses that had a sign that said ‘ We ’ ll be back , ’ those signs are gone , ” she said .
Daly also told reporters the expiration of the federal government ’ s $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean the loss of income that was helping some families keep up on rent and food .
“ It creates the potential for a hole , a little bit of a hole in consumer demand and consumer spending , ” she said .
“ We have evidence that suggests they were spending those resources to pay rent or to buy food or to buy other consumer goods.
” The virus , she said , is dictating the state of the economy right now and Congress will “ need to build a longer bridge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers .

SAN FRANCISCO — The technology industry’s strong performance amid an economic downturn spurred by coronavirus lockdowns could be protecting the Bay Area from some of the worst damage of the recession even as brick and mortar businesses struggles and the loss of federal unemployment benefits signal trouble ahead, San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank President Mary Daly said on Wednesday.
Daly said many businesses such as online retailers, tech firms, shipping companies and others have been doing well amid government-imposed lockdowns even as hospitality, bars and other brick and mortar industries face widespread closures. That’s been a “shocking” aspect of the current financial contraction, she said.
“It’s been incredibly uneven,” she said. “If you just roll that up to bigger firms, you see that reflected in the stock market.”
Apple’s stock is up almost 87 percent since lockdown orders were imposed in the Bay Area on March 16. Facebook’s stock is up 78 percent during that time, and Alphabet’s stock — the parent company of Google — is up almost 41 percent.
“It looks pretty promising for tech,” Daly said. “There’s not a sense that tech is being challenged right now.”
That’s helped maintain the region’s strong real estate market and to the extent that workers at tech companies are able to shop and spend money locally, they are boosting economic activity in the Bay Area. But Daly said she’s more concerned with brick and mortar businesses that are being harder hit by a pandemic that has gone on much longer than anticipated. That includes gyms and movie theaters, as well as commercial real estate companies those struggling businesses lease from.
Many businesses that in March were hoping to reopen in a few months are starting to close permanently and temporary layoffs are now turning permanent, Daly said, adding that she sees that in her own neighborhood in Oakland.
“Businesses that had a sign that said ‘We’ll be back,’ those signs are gone,” she said.
Daly also told reporters the expiration of the federal government’s $600 boost to state unemployment insurance could mean the loss of income that was helping some families keep up on rent and food.
“It creates the potential for a hole, a little bit of a hole in consumer demand and consumer spending,” she said. “We have evidence that suggests they were spending those resources to pay rent or to buy food or to buy other consumer goods.”
The virus, she said, is dictating the state of the economy right now and Congress will “need to build a longer bridge” across the pandemic for consumers and workers.