mercurynews--2020-04-27--New York hospitals are studying a common heartburn drug as treatment for Covid-19

Hospitals in New York are giving Covid-19 patients heartburn medicine to see if it helps fight the virus , according to the doctor who initiated the trial .
Preliminary results of the clinical trial of famotidine , the active ingredient in Pepcid , could come out in the next few weeks , said Dr. Kevin Tracey , president of Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health , which runs 23 hospitals in the New York City area .
So far , 187 patients have enrolled in the clinical trial , and Northwell eventually hopes to enroll 1,200 , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the history of medicine where a drug that was designed for one purpose turns out to have an effect in another disease , ” Tracey said .
He said if famotidine works — and that ’ s a big if at this point — it would be easy to use it on a widespread scale .
“ It ’ s generic , it ’ s plentiful and it ’ s inexpensive , ” he said .
But he emphasized that it might not work .
“ We don ’ t know if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t .
I swear we don ’ t , ” he said .
“ People are hoping for anything .
But we need to do this clinical trial.
” He also emphasized that the patients in the study are in the hospital taking mega-doses intravenously — doses about nine times what someone would normally take for heartburn .
“ You should not go to the drugstore and take a bunch of heartburn medicine , ” he said .
Tracey and his colleagues got the idea to study famotidine after it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the drug fared better than patients not taking the drug .
He said studies on the Chinese patients have not yet been published , but that Dr. Michael Callahan , an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital who worked with coronavirus patients in China , observed that some people with lower incomes were surviving longer than their wealthier counterparts who also had heartburn .
When Callahan and the Chinese doctors looked closer , they found that many of the people with lower incomes were taking famotidine , whereas the wealthier patients tended @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drug .
“ The poor peasants really seemed to do well on famotidine , ” Tracey said .
“ There are a lot of anecdotes passing around that give us some hope.
” Callahan could not be reached for comment .
The famotidine study was first reported in Science Magazine .
Tracey said in addition to the observation in Chinese patients , Florida-based Alchem Laboratories used a computer model to make a list of existing drugs that might fight coronavirus , and famotidine showed up near the top of the list .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the structure of famotidine is such that it could stop the virus from replicating , in the same way that protease inhibitors , which are used to treat HIV , stop that virus .
In the Northwell trial , all the patients are taking hydroxychloroquine .
Tracey said that when the study started in early April , doctors and patients were insisting on using hydroxychloroquine , and in effect , it became the standard of care .
President Trump has frequently touted the drug as a “ game-changer ” in the fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have suggested it doesn ’ t help .
“ You have to be fair to people — they ’ re reading in the paper and hearing on the news that hydroxychloroquine works and they look at their dying wife or grandma or child and they want to try it and how could we say no ?
What kind of person would say no ?
” Tracey said .
Half of the patient in the study will be given famotidine in addition to hydroxychloroquine .
The other half will be given intravenous saline as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Hydroxychloroquine might not be used in the study moving forward , since last week , the US Food and Drug Administration warned against its use for coronavirus because of possible side effects .
Tracey said the independent board monitoring the trial will make the decision about whether to continue including hydroxychloroquine in the study .
He added that Northwell kept the study quiet until now because of the experience with doctors rushing to put patients on hydroxychloroquine .
He doesn ’ t want that same rush for intravenous famotidine — it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if there ’ s a rush on the drug , his research team might not have enough for their study subjects .
• Photos : Discarded gloves become the latest thing people litter during COVID-19 pandemic • Virtual Talladega might have been more entertaining than the real thing He ’ s also concerned that people who don ’ t have heartburn will rush to stores to buy famotidine pills , mistakenly convinced it will help against coronavirus .
That could leave heartburn patients in the lurch , especially since the FDA pulled Zantac @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the market earlier this month due to possible contamination .
He said these are unusual concerns at an unusual time .
“ That ’ s the reality of trying to do the right thing in a pandemic .
It ’ s very , very hard , ” he said .

Hospitals in New York are giving Covid-19 patients heartburn medicine to see if it helps fight the virus, according to the doctor who initiated the trial.
Preliminary results of the clinical trial of famotidine, the active ingredient in Pepcid, could come out in the next few weeks, said Dr. Kevin Tracey, president of Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research at Northwell Health, which runs 23 hospitals in the New York City area.
So far, 187 patients have enrolled in the clinical trial, and Northwell eventually hopes to enroll 1,200, he said.
“There are many examples in the history of medicine where a drug that was designed for one purpose turns out to have an effect in another disease,” Tracey said.
He said if famotidine works — and that’s a big if at this point — it would be easy to use it on a widespread scale.
“It’s generic, it’s plentiful and it’s inexpensive,” he said.
But he emphasized that it might not work.
“We don’t know if it has any benefit. We really don’t. I swear we don’t,” he said. “People are hoping for anything. But we need to do this clinical trial.”
He also emphasized that the patients in the study are in the hospital taking mega-doses intravenously — doses about nine times what someone would normally take for heartburn.
“You should not go to the drugstore and take a bunch of heartburn medicine,” he said.
Learning from Chinese patients’ medications
Tracey and his colleagues got the idea to study famotidine after it was observed that some patients in China taking the drug fared better than patients not taking the drug.
He said studies on the Chinese patients have not yet been published, but that Dr. Michael Callahan, an infectious disease specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital who worked with coronavirus patients in China, observed that some people with lower incomes were surviving longer than their wealthier counterparts who also had heartburn.
When Callahan and the Chinese doctors looked closer, they found that many of the people with lower incomes were taking famotidine, whereas the wealthier patients tended to take a different, more expensive drug.
“The poor peasants really seemed to do well on famotidine,” Tracey said. “There are a lot of anecdotes passing around that give us some hope.”
Callahan could not be reached for comment.
The famotidine study was first reported in Science Magazine.
Tracey said in addition to the observation in Chinese patients, Florida-based Alchem Laboratories used a computer model to make a list of existing drugs that might fight coronavirus, and famotidine showed up near the top of the list.
He said that’s because, theoretically, the structure of famotidine is such that it could stop the virus from replicating, in the same way that protease inhibitors, which are used to treat HIV, stop that virus.
Concerns about famotidine shortages
In the Northwell trial, all the patients are taking hydroxychloroquine.
Tracey said that when the study started in early April, doctors and patients were insisting on using hydroxychloroquine, and in effect, it became the standard of care.
President Trump has frequently touted the drug as a “game-changer” in the fight against the virus, although recent studies have suggested it doesn’t help.
“You have to be fair to people — they’re reading in the paper and hearing on the news that hydroxychloroquine works and they look at their dying wife or grandma or child and they want to try it and how could we say no? What kind of person would say no?” Tracey said.
Half of the patient in the study will be given famotidine in addition to hydroxychloroquine. The other half will be given intravenous saline as a placebo, which has no effect.
Hydroxychloroquine might not be used in the study moving forward, since last week, the US Food and Drug Administration warned against its use for coronavirus because of possible side effects.
Tracey said the independent board monitoring the trial will make the decision about whether to continue including hydroxychloroquine in the study.
He added that Northwell kept the study quiet until now because of the experience with doctors rushing to put patients on hydroxychloroquine. He doesn’t want that same rush for intravenous famotidine — it’s unclear if it works, and if there’s a rush on the drug, his research team might not have enough for their study subjects.
Related Articles Health | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
San Jose office building wobbles into default — again Health | College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds
College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds Health | One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining
One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining Health | Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms
Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge He’s also concerned that people who don’t have heartburn will rush to stores to buy famotidine pills, mistakenly convinced it will help against coronavirus.
That could leave heartburn patients in the lurch, especially since the FDA pulled Zantac — a different heartburn medicine — off the market earlier this month due to possible contamination.
He said these are unusual concerns at an unusual time.
“That’s the reality of trying to do the right thing in a pandemic. It’s very, very hard,” he said.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2020 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.


mercurynews--2020-04-27--Letter: Congress should fight for me, my family, not corporations

As a subscriber , I appreciate your coverage of the bailouts in Congress .
Congress must work to improve the coronavirus response package that was signed into law .
A truly people-first response would be sure to safeguard our democracy by instituting nationwide voting by mail .
It would ensure that our health care system can meet the scope of the crisis .
It would support families with monthly cash payments and place a freeze on eliminating critical services for individuals and families , like housing and utilities .
It would provide universal paid sick leave and expand unemployment insurance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Finally , any bill that passes should make sure to place people before profits , by preventing unaccountable corporate bailouts and prioritizing policies that include marginalized communities .
• Letter : No one thinks about kids with special needs such as autism • Letter : Newsom should use crisis to deal with homeless • Letter : US has two choices : Blame China or learn from China • Letter : The attacks on the Stanford study ’ s results are unwarranted Congress should fight for me and my family — not corporations .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ act by passing a People ’ s Bailout , by calling or writing your member of Congress today .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

As a subscriber, I appreciate your coverage of the bailouts in Congress. Congress must work to improve the coronavirus response package that was signed into law.
A truly people-first response would be sure to safeguard our democracy by instituting nationwide voting by mail.
It would ensure that our health care system can meet the scope of the crisis.
It would support families with monthly cash payments and place a freeze on eliminating critical services for individuals and families, like housing and utilities.
It would provide universal paid sick leave and expand unemployment insurance to help workers and small businesses.
Finally, any bill that passes should make sure to place people before profits, by preventing unaccountable corporate bailouts and prioritizing policies that include marginalized communities.
Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives Letters to the Editor | Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances
Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances Letters to the Editor | Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language
Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language Letters to the Editor | Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path
Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps Congress should fight for me and my family — not corporations. Please join me in urging Congress to act by passing a People’s Bailout, by calling or writing your member of Congress today.
Rita Sklar
Castro Valley
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-04-27--Raiders mailbag: Do Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden need `overdraft’ protection?

Let ’ s get to your Raiders questions now that the 2020 NFL draft has concluded : Q : The draft is designed to maintain parity in the league so de-valuing high picks is inexcusable .
According to the so called “ experts ” , the second round was deep with first round talent and yet Gruden chose someone projected for the third round .
What gives ?
— Domingo Baslio email Whose value system are you applying ?
The consensus of a lot of talent “ experts ” that don ’ t work for NFL teams ?
As opposed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good enough at it to actually be hired by one ?
How do you know there wasn ’ t a team that was poised to take Damon Arnette ?
If the guy is nothing special , you ’ ve got an argument and we ’ ll find out eventually .
But right now , unless you ’ ve got ironclad info from 31 teams saying they weren ’ t taking him until the third or fourth round , it ’ s premature to make assumptions .
Q : 1 .
Were you or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rumors of Yannick Ngakoue being traded for a draft pick ?
Or any truths to these rumors ?
2 .
Raiders had the king ’ s choice of selecting out of 3 consensus top receivers in the draft .
Would they still have gone receiver if Ruggs was not there ?
— Seanseye email Mayock wasn ’ t asked about it , and he wouldn ’ t have commented even if he was .
Teams are not allowed to comment on another team ’ s players .
It ’ s punishable by fine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for what the Raiders would have done if Ruggs was off the board , I think they would have taken either Jeudy or Lamb .
And I ’ m guessing Jeudy .
Q : There were pretty clear reports that Raiders wanted a defensive end in Yannick Ngakoue and yet then didn ’ t draft a defensive end .
Do you think that means , they will still look to sign established defensive end post draft or ride with what they have got ?
— @ anikh8030 Not sure what you consider a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simulation of how it went : Raiders : What about Ngakoue ?
Jaguars : We want one of your first round draft picks and one of your thirds .
And by the way , when you check with his agent you ’ ll find he wants a longterm contract at something approaching Khalil Mack money .
Raiders : Click .
Q : What is Plan B if Josh Jacobs goes down ?
Surely not Lynn Bowden ?
— @ marklubienski Doesn ’ t appear there is a 20-carry back on the roster .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ was addrssed by a street free agent or undrafted free agent .
We honestly don ’ t know about Bowden , although he did run for more than 1,400 yards last year as a wildcat quarterback .
So he ’ s used to taking punishment .
Q : Since we don ’ t have OTAs , I question if they have enough time to get Bowden ready , at least early in the season .
Hope they do , cause kid is electric , but what is likely the backup plan ?
– @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mayock insists they ’ re drafting guys with the kind of aptitude that they ’ ll get up to speed quickly .
Bowden supposedly wowed Gruden and Mayock in terms of his ability to quickly understand conceptns and verbiage and then repeat it .
But there ’ s no way to know what impact Bowden and other rookies will have with no on-field work .
Q : Let ’ s talk about that second round tender they put on Nathan Peterman awhile back .
How ’ s that working out ?
— @ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s not guaranteed unless he makes the roster as the third quarterback .
And then his pay would be pretty much in line with what a quarterback on a 53-man NFL roster would make .
Q : I might have ( Gareon ) Conleyitis but was Arnette a reach at 19 ?
I trust Mike Mayock so not too concerned ; just so many misses drafting cornerbacks thru the years.– @ Todd_Harrison I get it .
Cornerback has been a revolving door and if you ’ re a long-suffering Raider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d say this about Gareon Conley vs. Damon Arnette : Conley was quiet and reserved , kept everything under his hat .
Very little outward emotion or passion .
Not in his personality or his game .
Arnette is the opposite of that .
That doesn ’ t mean he ’ ll be a star and Conley wont be , but it sure meshes better with the head coach .
Q : Do you think Gruden wants to change gameplans weekly and sometimes run a ground and pound offense and other times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I think he always wants elements of power football .
Fullback and extra tight ends , etc .
Especially late .
But he needs the bells and whistles to complement the ability to run the ball an work the clock .
As well as to have the ability to come back from a two-score deficit .
I know Tennessee had some success , but it ’ s hard to succeed being only a play-from-ahead team .
Q : Any thoughts on the Raiders passing on K ’ Lavon Chaission from LSU ?
Probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arnette later .
Chassion will be a Pro Bowler .
Also , so this is Tyell Williams last season w the Raiders right ?
— @ Darrindubs20 Two huge assumptions .
Chaisson is great and no one else wanted Arnette that high .
I ’ ve already addressed the latter .
As for Chaisson , you ’ re pretty confident that a guy with 25 career games and 9 1/2 sacks will be a Pro Bowler .
And maybe you ’ re right .
We ’ ll wait and see .
Tyrone Williams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gave him a mulligan because of his bad feet last year .
He won ’ t get another one .
Q : How many WR make the final roster and who are your predictions to do so ?
— @ robstievater Off the top of my head , it ’ s Henry Ruggs , Tyrell Williams , Hunter Renfrow , Nelson Agholor , and Bryan Edwards as the first five .
Next up would be Zay Jones or someone Rich Bisaccia wants on specail teams .
Q : Do you see Raiders picking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ camp ?
Like a Dion Jordan for defensive tackle depth or a Devonta Freeman to backup Jacobs ?
— @ guodknowledge I ’ m sure they ’ re not done tinkering with the roster .
I think if they were going to sign Dion Jordan , it would have happened by now .
Rod Marinelli carries a lot of influence , and he got two of his guys — Maliek Collins and Daniel Ross .
Guessing the Raiders will be kicking the tires on backs such as Freeman but first you need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Q : Overall I thought it was an above average draft but feel like they left something on the table .
For example , why not take John Simpson at 100 , Tanner Muse with the next pick ( not a fan of that pick ) and keep the 5th rounder ?
— @ brwong24 If they wanted Simpson and Muse and got them both , then what difference does it make that one went at No .
100 and the other at No .
109 ?
As for the fifth rounder , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ picking after the fourth round and thus having seven selections all at No .
139 or below .
With the reduced off-season time , it will be rough going for late-round draft picks and undrafted free agents .
Q : Are there any interesting UDFA candidates the Raiders sign to address their needs at running back to pair with Jacobs ?
— @ trutt22 I ’ ll be honest .
Haven ’ t dug in to the UFDAs and am unlikely to before I leave for the next two weeks .
With running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ d tend to think they ’ d look for a veteran bigger back because of the non-existant OTA period .
Q : What are your thoughts on Mayock ’ s and Grudens ability to manipulate the draft board in terms of moving up and down for value ?
The evaluation of players is great but we seem to overdraft sometimes.– @ spitfire2328 Funny how two guys with type A personalities would be so patient .
Yet that ’ s been their philosophy for the most part in letting the draft come to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overdrafting ” everyone is concerned about is Ferrell and Arnette , more so Ferrell because he was a No .
4 .
The biggest thing is to get the guys you want who can fit in and produce .
They definitely have a “ type ” they like .
If the Raiders start winning , I suspect the whole “ overdrafting ” thing will recede into the background .
If they don ’ t , they ’ ll keep hearing about it .
Q : Does Amik Robertson traslate specifically to slot , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coaches will let him compete with Trayvon Mullen , Damon Arnette and the rest at corner ?
— @ macomboys Mayock believes the skill set for Robertson does lend itself to the slot , but right now that position belongs to Lamarcus Joyner .
He ’ ll get a chance to prove in Year 2 he can be the player the Raiders hoped he ’ d be when they signed him .
If Robertson is a defender who can actually make plays on the ball and create turnovers , he ’ ll see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or outside .
They ’ ll be fine with him giving up some jump-and-catch plays to bigger receivers if he mixes in some interceptions .
Q : Why no standout EDGE ?
Drafted or UDFA ?
Whats the update on Arden Key ?
— @ tonyjobs Wasn ’ t regarded as a great draft for edge rushers , with Chase Young way above and beyond everyone else .
Not sure which “ standout ” you wanted if Young wasn ’ t going to be around .
An undrafted free agent won ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re counting on Ferrell to be better , Maxx Crosby to build on what he did a year ago and guarateed a reported $ 17 million to Carl Nassib .
That ’ s your outside pressure .
They ’ d love to see Arden Key turn into a force , but I don ’ t think they ’ re counting on it .
He ’ s in a “ show us ” mode .
Q : I question the picks of Bowden Jr. , Muse , and Simpson .
They just gave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also mentioned they want to involve Jacobs more in the passing game .
Where does Bowden Jr. fit in ?
And with prospects like Troy Dye and Jacob Phillips , why Muse ?
— @ Lawson232012 • Raiders depth chart : Where draft class of 2020 fits in Richard was brought back to do what he does .
Catch passes out of the backfield and run infrequently from scrimmage .
A lot of the Jacobs talk about being more involved in the passing game I think is just that — talk .
Yes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but his main value is running from scrimmage and anything that takes away from that is counterproductive .
The ability to get work for Bowden will have a lot to do with whether the Raiders finally have a defense that can force some turnovers and three-and-outs .
As for Muse , they love their Clemson guys .
They just committed big dollars to two three-down linebackers and to Kwiatkoski as the defensive signal caller .
Sounds like they ’ ve moved on .
Burfict is now on triple not-so-secret probation .
Next @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s suspended again .
Q : How come Mike and Jon choke and draft a kid with their 1st pick that they could have drafted later ?
?
.. 2 years in a row…..ugh — @ Norcalcrowe Because they don ’ t know nearly as much as all the other draft analysts who don ’ t work for NFL teams .
No sense watching the season to see if Arnette can play .
Better to beat the rush and give up on him now .
Q : Cory Littleton is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kwiatkoski in the middle .
Who starts on the strong side ?
— @ VegasRaidersBig Wouldn ’ t get caught up in the strong side , weak side thing .
There wil be two linebackers on the field most of the time and there will be Littleton and Kwiatkoski .
When they do go true 4-3 and have three linebackers on the field , the tender they gave Nicholas Morrow suggests he ’ s the guy .
Either Morrow Marquel Lee .

Let’s get to your Raiders questions now that the 2020 NFL draft has concluded:
Q: The draft is designed to maintain parity in the league so de-valuing high picks is inexcusable. According to the so called “experts”, the second round was deep with first round talent and yet Gruden chose someone projected for the third round. What gives? — Domingo Baslio email
Whose value system are you applying? The consensus of a lot of talent “experts” that don’t work for NFL teams? As opposed to someone like Mike Mayock who was good enough at it to actually be hired by one? How do you know there wasn’t a team that was poised to take Damon Arnette? If the guy is nothing special, you’ve got an argument and we’ll find out eventually. But right now, unless you’ve got ironclad info from 31 teams saying they weren’t taking him until the third or fourth round, it’s premature to make assumptions.
Q: 1. Were you or any journalist able to ask about the rumors of Yannick Ngakoue being traded for a draft pick? Or any truths to these rumors? 2. Raiders had the king’s choice of selecting out of 3 consensus top receivers in the draft. Would they still have gone receiver if Ruggs was not there? — Seanseye email
Mayock wasn’t asked about it, and he wouldn’t have commented even if he was. Teams are not allowed to comment on another team’s players. It’s punishable by fine. Ngakoue belongs to Jacksonville. As for what the Raiders would have done if Ruggs was off the board, I think they would have taken either Jeudy or Lamb. And I’m guessing Jeudy.
Q: There were pretty clear reports that Raiders wanted a defensive end in Yannick Ngakoue and yet then didn’t draft a defensive end. Do you think that means, they will still look to sign established defensive end post draft or ride with what they have got? — @anikh8030
Not sure what you consider a clear report. Here’s my simulation of how it went: Raiders: What about Ngakoue? Jaguars: We want one of your first-round draft picks and one of your thirds. And by the way, when you check with his agent you’ll find he wants a longterm contract at something approaching Khalil Mack money. Raiders: Click.
Q: What is Plan B if Josh Jacobs goes down? Surely not Lynn Bowden? — @marklubienski
Doesn’t appear there is a 20-carry back on the roster. Wouldn’t be surprised if it was addressed by a street free agent or undrafted free agent. We honestly don’t know about Bowden, although he did run for more than 1,400 yards last year as a wildcat quarterback. So he’s used to taking punishment.
Q: Since we don’t have OTAs, I question if they have enough time to get Bowden ready, at least early in the season. Hope they do, ’cause kid is electric, but what is likely the backup plan? – @ABWilcox32
You’re right. Mayock insists they’re drafting guys with the kind of aptitude that they’ll get up to speed quickly. Bowden supposedly wowed Gruden and Mayock in terms of his ability to quickly understand concepts and verbiage and then repeat it. But there’s no way to know what impact Bowden and other rookies will have with no on-field work.
Q: Let’s talk about that second round tender they put on Nathan Peterman awhile back. How’s that working out? — @danenright32
It’s working out fine. It’s not guaranteed unless he makes the roster as the third quarterback. And then his pay would be pretty much in line with what a quarterback on a 53-man NFL roster would make.
Q: I might have (Gareon) Conleyitis but was Arnette a reach at 19? I trust Mike Mayock so not too concerned; just so many misses drafting cornerbacks thru the years.– @Todd_Harrison
I get it. Cornerback has been a revolving door and if you’re a long-suffering Raider fan your skepticism is natural. I’d say this about Gareon Conley vs. Damon Arnette: Conley was quiet and reserved, kept everything under his hat. Very little outward emotion or passion. Not in his personality or his game. Arnette is the opposite of that. That doesn’t mean he’ll be a star and Conley wont be, but it sure meshes better with the head coach.
Q: Do you think Gruden wants to change gameplans weekly and sometimes run a ground and pound offense and other times run a spread? — @bates_jw
I think he always wants elements of power football. Fullback and extra tight ends, etc. Especially late. But he needs the bells and whistles to complement the ability to run the ball an work the clock. As well as to have the ability to come back from a two-score deficit. I know Tennessee had some success, but it’s hard to succeed being only a play-from-ahead team.
Q: Any thoughts on the Raiders passing on K’Lavon Chaission from LSU? Probably could have taken him and still got Arnette later. Chassion will be a Pro Bowler. Also, so this is Tyell Williams last season w the Raiders right? — @Darrindubs20
Two huge assumptions. Chaisson is great and no one else wanted Arnette that high. I’ve already addressed the latter. As for Chaisson, you’re pretty confident that a guy with 25 career games and 9 1/2 sacks will be a Pro Bowler. And maybe you’re right. We’ll wait and see. Tyrell Williams must stay healthy and produce. They gave him a mulligan because of his bad feet last year. He won’t get another one.
Q: How many WR make the final roster and who are your predictions to do so? — @robstievater
Off the top of my head, it’s Henry Ruggs, Tyrell Williams, Hunter Renfrow, Nelson Agholor, and Bryan Edwards as the first five. Next up would be Zay Jones or someone Rich Bisaccia wants on specail teams.
Q: Do you see Raiders picking up a free agent or two before camp? Like a Dion Jordan for defensive tackle depth or a Devonta Freeman to backup Jacobs? — @guodknowledge
I’m sure they’re not done tinkering with the roster. I think if they were going to sign Dion Jordan, it would have happened by now. Rod Marinelli carries a lot of influence, and he got two of his guys — Maliek Collins and Daniel Ross. Guessing the Raiders will be kicking the tires on backs such as Freeman but first you need to know if they’re healthy.
Q: Overall I thought it was an above average draft but feel like they left something on the table. For example, why not take John Simpson at 100, Tanner Muse with the next pick (not a fan of that pick) and keep the 5th rounder? — @brwong24
If they wanted Simpson and Muse and got them both, then what difference does it make that one went at No. 100 and the other at No. 109? As for the fifth rounder, I personally like the philosophy of not picking after the fourth round and thus having seven selections all at No. 139 or below. With the reduced off-season time, it will be rough going for late-round draft picks and undrafted free agents.
Q: Are there any interesting UDFA candidates the Raiders sign to address their needs at running back to pair with Jacobs? — @trutt22
I’ll be honest. Haven’t dug in to the UFDAs and am unlikely to before I leave for the next two weeks. With running backs, you never know. I’d tend to think they’d look for a veteran bigger back because of the non-existant OTA period.
Q: What are your thoughts on Mayock’s and Grudens ability to manipulate the draft board in terms of moving up and down for value? The evaluation of players is great but we seem to overdraft sometimes.– @spitfire2328
Funny how two guys with type A personalities would be so patient. Yet that’s been their philosophy for the most part in letting the draft come to them. The two instances of “overdrafting” everyone is concerned about is Ferrell and Arnette, more so Ferrell because he was a No. 4. The biggest thing is to get the guys you want who can fit in and produce. They definitely have a “type” they like. If the Raiders start winning, I suspect the whole “overdrafting” thing will recede into the background. If they don’t, they’ll keep hearing about it.
Q: Does Amik Robertson traslate specifically to slot, or do you get the impression the coaches will let him compete with Trayvon Mullen, Damon Arnette and the rest at corner? — @macomboys
Mayock believes the skill set for Robertson does lend itself to the slot, but right now that position belongs to Lamarcus Joyner. He’ll get a chance to prove in Year 2 he can be the player the Raiders hoped he’d be when they signed him. If Robertson is a defender who can actually make plays on the ball and create turnovers, he’ll see the field — whether in the slot or outside. They’ll be fine with him giving up some jump-and-catch plays to bigger receivers if he mixes in some interceptions.
Q: Why no standout EDGE? Drafted or UDFA? Whats the update on Arden Key? — @tonyjobs
Wasn’t regarded as a great draft for edge rushers, with Chase Young way above and beyond everyone else. Not sure which “standout” you wanted if Young wasn’t going to be around. An undrafted free agent won’t have much of a chance. They’re counting on Ferrell to be better, Maxx Crosby to build on what he did a year ago and guarateed a reported $17 million to Carl Nassib. That’s your outside pressure. They’d love to see Arden Key turn into a force, but I don’t think they’re counting on it. He’s in a “show us” mode.
Q: I question the picks of Bowden Jr., Muse, and Simpson. They just gave Richard a contract extension and coaches have also mentioned they want to involve Jacobs more in the passing game. Where does Bowden Jr. fit in? And with prospects like Troy Dye and Jacob Phillips, why Muse? — @Lawson232012
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 Richard was brought back to do what he does. Catch passes out of the backfield and run infrequently from scrimmage. A lot of the Jacobs talk about being more involved in the passing game I think is just that — talk. Yes, he’ll catch more passes, but his main value is running from scrimmage and anything that takes away from that is counterproductive. The ability to get work for Bowden will have a lot to do with whether the Raiders finally have a defense that can force some turnovers and three-and-outs. As for Muse, they love their Clemson guys.
Q: Are the Raiders gonna bring Burfict back? — @Michael23718337
They just committed big dollars to two three-down linebackers and to Kwiatkoski as the defensive signal caller. Sounds like they’ve moved on. Burfict is now on triple not-so-secret probation. Next time he gives an extra shove he’s suspended again.
Q: How come Mike and Jon choke and draft a kid with their 1st pick that they could have drafted later??.. 2 years in a row…..ugh — @Norcalcrowe
Because they don’t know nearly as much as all the other draft analysts who don’t work for NFL teams. No sense watching the season to see if Arnette can play. Better to beat the rush and give up on him now.
Q :Cory Littleton is going to start on the weak side, Nick Kwiatkoski in the middle. Who starts on the strong side? — @VegasRaidersBig
Wouldn’t get caught up in the strong side, weak side thing. There wil be two linebackers on the field most of the time and there will be Littleton and Kwiatkoski. When they do go true 4-3 and have three linebackers on the field, the tender they gave Nicholas Morrow suggests he’s the guy. Either Morrow Marquel Lee.


mercurynews--2020-04-27--Letter: Will San Jose protect landlords and single-family units?

Being a resident of the city of San Jose , I am very pleased to learn of the decision to @ @ @ @ @ residential evictions and forge ahead with a plan to temporarily prohibit landlords from increasing rent @ @ @ @ @ this pandemic , everyone has been affected in some way .
Many have lost their @ @ @ @ @ believe tenants and undocumented are the most vulnerable .
With this new ordinance single-family homes @ @ @ @ @ be covered and they should be .
• Letter : Congress should fight for me @ @ @ @ @ corporations • Letter : No one thinks about kids with special needs such as autism @ @ @ @ @ use crisis to deal with homeless • Letter : US has two choices : Blame @ @ @ @ @ • Letter : The attacks on the Stanford study ’ s results are unwarranted Landlords @ @ @ @ @ , as the owners they have much bigger bills to pay and are being affected @ @ @ @ @ your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Re: “San Jose extends eviction moratorium, moves forward with rent freeze” (Mercurynews.com, April 15):
Being a resident of the city of San Jose, I am very pleased to learn of the decision to extend the temporary ban on residential evictions and forge ahead with a plan to temporarily prohibit landlords from increasing rent during this pandemic.
During this pandemic, everyone has been affected in some way. Many have lost their jobs. And I do believe tenants and undocumented are the most vulnerable.
With this new ordinance single-family homes and newer apartments will not be covered and they should be.
Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives Letters to the Editor | Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances
Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances Letters to the Editor | Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language
Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language Letters to the Editor | Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path
Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps Landlords should be protected as well, as the owners they have much bigger bills to pay and are being affected just the same.
Emily Martinez
San Jose
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-04-27--Letter: No one thinks about kids with special needs such as autism

No one is thinking about students with significant special needs such as autism .
School is part of their rigid @ @ @ @ @ protected by federal law , but at present it ’ s basically being left to @ @ @ @ @ working remotely or dealing with their education as well as social , emotional , behavioral @ @ @ @ @ Congress should fight for me , my family , not corporations • Letter : Newsom @ @ @ @ @ with homeless • Letter : US has two choices : Blame China or learn from @ @ @ @ @ attacks on the Stanford study ’ s results are unwarranted We need to get back @ @ @ @ @ work .
This is ruining people educationally , economically and possibly mentally .
My entire @ @ @ @ @ and emergency workers , so we are affected every minute of every day .
We @ @ @ @ @ school and back to work .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form @ @ @ @ @ Editor

No one is thinking about students with significant special needs such as autism.
School is part of their rigid schedule. Their education is protected by federal law, but at present it’s basically being left to their parents who may be working remotely or dealing with their education as well as social, emotional, behavioral issues.
Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives Letters to the Editor | Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances
Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances Letters to the Editor | Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language
Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language Letters to the Editor | Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path
Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps We need to get back to school and back to work. This is ruining people educationally, economically and possibly mentally. My entire family is employed as nurses and emergency workers, so we are affected every minute of every day. We need to get back to school and back to work.
Rebecca Lynn-Yee
San Jose
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-04-27--Bridge: April 27, 2020

Bridge: April 27, 2020

If I picked one word to define a good declarer , it would be “ careful.
” He never boots easy contracts ; he foresees what can go wrong .
Cover today ’ s East-West cards and test your play .
Against four spades , West leads the king of diamonds , and you take your ace .
What next ?
You seem to have 10 tricks : four trumps even if the suit breaks badly , four clubs and two red-suit aces .
If you make sure of taking your club tricks , you will be safe .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ king and returned a trump .
When East discarded , declarer took the ace and started the clubs .
He threw his last diamond on the third club , but West ruffed and led a high diamond .
South never got dummy ’ s fourth club and lost two hearts .
Down one .
South was un-careful .
He can take the ace of trumps at Trick Two , then start the clubs .
West ruffs the third club and shifts to hearts , but South can win , lead a trump to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fourth club .
He loses two trumps and one heart .
You hold : S A J 9 7 6 5 H A 6 2 D A 3 C Q 4 .
Your partner opens one heart , you respond one spade and he bids two clubs .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Your partner ’ s hand is not well defined , and your best contract is unclear .
You may have a slam , or you may belong at notrump instead of at hearts .
A jump to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forcing .
Bid two diamonds , a “ fourth-suit ” action , to let your partner continue to describe his hand .

If I picked one word to define a good declarer, it would be “careful.” He never boots easy contracts; he foresees what can go wrong.
Cover today’s East-West cards and test your play. Against four spades, West leads the king of diamonds, and you take your ace. What next?
You seem to have 10 tricks: four trumps even if the suit breaks badly, four clubs and two red-suit aces. If you make sure of taking your club tricks, you will be safe.
TWO HEARTS
The actual South led a trump to the king and returned a trump. When East discarded, declarer took the ace and started the clubs. He threw his last diamond on the third club, but West ruffed and led a high diamond. South never got dummy’s fourth club and lost two hearts. Down one.
South was un-careful. He can take the ace of trumps at Trick Two, then start the clubs. West ruffs the third club and shifts to hearts, but South can win, lead a trump to the king and pitch a heart on the fourth club. He loses two trumps and one heart.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S A J 9 7 6 5 H A 6 2 D A 3 C Q 4. Your partner opens one heart, you respond one spade and he bids two clubs. What do you say?
ANSWER: Your partner’s hand is not well defined, and your best contract is unclear. You may have a slam, or you may belong at notrump instead of at hearts. A jump to three hearts would be invitational, not forcing. Bid two diamonds, a “fourth-suit” action, to let your partner continue to describe his hand.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S K 2
H J 8 3
D 10 8 7 2
C A K J 5
WEST
S Q 10 8 3
H Q 7
D K Q J 9 5
C 7 6
EAST
S 4
H K 10 9 5 4
D 6 4
C 10 9 8 3 2
SOUTH
S A J 9 7 6 5
H A 6 2
D A 3
C Q 4
South West North East
1 S Pass 2 C Pass
3 S Pass 4 S All Pass
Opening lead — D K
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-04-28--Trump says he has a ‘good idea’ about Kim’s fate

By Jim Sciutto , Zachary Cohen and Will Ripley | CNN President Donald Trump added to the sense of confusion surrounding the health of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Monday , appearing to contradict himself during public remarks in the Rose Garden by first telling reporters he had “ a very good idea ” about Kim ’ s condition , then stating moments later that “ nobody knows where he is.
” Asked about Kim ’ s status on Monday , Trump said , “ I can ’ t tell you , exactly — yes , I do have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t talk about it now .
I just wish him well.
” But later in the same press conference the President told reporters , “ He didn ’ t say anything last Saturday .
Nobody knows where he is so he obviously couldn ’ t have said it .
This is breaking news that Kim Jong Un made a statement on Saturday .
I don ’ t think so.
” Trump seemed to be referring to Kim ’ s message to workers in the country published in North Korean state-media Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Last week CNN reported , that the US was monitoring intelligence suggesting Kim was in grave danger after undergoing a previous surgery , according to a US official with direct knowledge .
After CNN ’ s report published , National Security Adviser Robert O ’ Brien made clear the Trump administration is keeping a close eye on developments regarding Kim .
“ We ’ re monitoring these reports very closely , ” said during an interview with Fox News last Tuesday .
“ As you know , North Korea is a very closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free press there .
They ’ re parsimonious with the information they provide about many things , including the health of Kim Jong Un.
” Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has also said the Trump administration is keeping a close eye on developments regarding Kim .
“ We are watching the situation very keenly , ” he told Fox News Thursday .
Last seen in public on April 11 Kim was last seen in public on April 11 at a politburo meeting , according to North Korean state media , KCNA .
Since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ questions about his status have continued to swirl .
US intelligence officials caution their vision into North Korea is limited .
Any assessment about his health or other questions relating to the reclusive regime are tempered by those limitations .
Congressional lawmakers also seem to have limited visibility into the current US assessment regarding Kim ’ s status .
Members of the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees have not yet received an update regarding the US assessment on Kim ’ s health , according to committee aides .
An aide @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reached out to the State Department for more information but officials have not provided any information beyond what has been publicly reported .
However , the US has taken reports on Kim ’ s health seriously enough to reach out to North Korean experts — particularly those who have studied the Kim regime — to talk about contingency planning , a source familiar with the communications told CNN .
As O ’ Brien noted , the judgment on potential successors , like everything relating to North Korea , is shrouded in uncertainty .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ diplomats note that the longer Kim remains out of public site , questions about his health become more concerning .
Pyongyang has every incentive to dispel questions about Kim ’ s fitness to lead by , for instance , showing him in public , to demonstrate his leadership both to its own population and to the world .
North Korea has taken some apparent steps to push back on speculation about Kim ’ s health .
On Monday , North Korean state media did publish a recent letter from the country ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ congratulating him on Freedom Day .
CNN has no way of independently verifying the authenticity of the letter and has reported conflicting beliefs by various government officials on Kim ’ s health condition in the past week .
The message was dated April 27 , 2020 , KCNA reported , as speculation mounted over Kim ’ s health after he missed the celebration of his grandfather ’ s birthday on April 15 .
On Sunday , North Korean state newspaper Rodong Sinmun said Kim sent thanks to workers who helped in remodeling the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNN could not independently confirm the authenticity of Sunday ’ s report and whether the note of thanks came directly from the leader .
Meanwhile , it is clear that South Korea remains very skeptical about reports related to Kim ’ s deteriorating health , insisting information of this nature is top secret and would not even be shared with North Korean allies such as China .
“ Our government position is firm , ” Moon Chung-in , the top foreign policy adviser to South Korean President Moon Jae-in , told CNN on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alive and well .
He has been staying in the Wonsan area since April 13 .
No suspicious movements have so far been detected.
” On Saturday , a website specializing in North Korean affairs published satellite images that researchers said shows a train “ probably belonging to Kim Jong Un ” has been parked at a railway station serving Kim ’ s luxurious Wonson compound on the country ’ s eastern coast since at least April 21 .
The presence of the train does not prove Kim is at the Wonson compound @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports that he is staying in the area , according to the article published by 38 North , a website that publishes analysis on North Korean affairs and is a project of the Henry L. Stimson Center , a Washington-based think tank .
38 North reported that the station where the train is parked is “ reserved for use by the Kim family.
” Satellite images indicate the train , not present in the area on April 15 , arrived sometime before April 21 and continued to be at the location on April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ train “ appeared to be repositioned for departure , ” according to 38 North .
The Wonson complex , according to 38 North , includes leisure facilities such as nine large guesthouses , a recreation center , a large building constructed after Kim came to power , a protected port , a shooting range , a recreation building , a covered dock , and a small runway converted in 2019 into a horse-riding track , a hobby of Kim ’ s .
• Trump may , or may not , hold an outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ try to delay presidential election • Spaniards walking unusual ‘ pets ’ and police are not amused The beachfront area , where Kim spent summers as a child , is a place the North Korean leader is known to enjoy frequenting .
Kim , however , often travels by plane or drives to Wonson .
The presence of the train raises the possibility that it may be used for some sort of a formal procession outside of Wonson .
Kim ’ s father , Kim Jong-Il , reportedly died on his train , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it in a formal fashion .
A US defense official said Monday that the US has intelligence supporting the 38 North report ’ s conclusion about Kim ’ s location .

By Jim Sciutto, Zachary Cohen and Will Ripley | CNN
President Donald Trump added to the sense of confusion surrounding the health of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un Monday, appearing to contradict himself during public remarks in the Rose Garden by first telling reporters he had “a very good idea” about Kim’s condition, then stating moments later that “nobody knows where he is.”
Asked about Kim’s status on Monday, Trump said, “I can’t tell you, exactly — yes, I do have a very good idea, but I can’t talk about it now. I just wish him well.” But later in the same press conference the President told reporters, “He didn’t say anything last Saturday. Nobody knows where he is so he obviously couldn’t have said it. This is breaking news that Kim Jong Un made a statement on Saturday. I don’t think so.”
Trump seemed to be referring to Kim’s message to workers in the country published in North Korean state-media Sunday but it was not immediately clear.
Last week CNN reported, that the US was monitoring intelligence suggesting Kim was in grave danger after undergoing a previous surgery, according to a US official with direct knowledge.
After CNN’s report published, National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien made clear the Trump administration is keeping a close eye on developments regarding Kim.
“We’re monitoring these reports very closely,” said during an interview with Fox News last Tuesday. “As you know, North Korea is a very closed society. There’s not a free press there. They’re parsimonious with the information they provide about many things, including the health of Kim Jong Un.”
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has also said the Trump administration is keeping a close eye on developments regarding Kim. “We are watching the situation very keenly,” he told Fox News Thursday.
Last seen in public on April 11
Kim was last seen in public on April 11 at a politburo meeting, according to North Korean state media, KCNA.
Since then, Kim has remained absent but questions about his status have continued to swirl.
US intelligence officials caution their vision into North Korea is limited. Any assessment about his health or other questions relating to the reclusive regime are tempered by those limitations.
Congressional lawmakers also seem to have limited visibility into the current US assessment regarding Kim’s status. Members of the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees have not yet received an update regarding the US assessment on Kim’s health, according to committee aides.
An aide for the House committee told CNN staffers reached out to the State Department for more information but officials have not provided any information beyond what has been publicly reported.
However, the US has taken reports on Kim’s health seriously enough to reach out to North Korean experts — particularly those who have studied the Kim regime — to talk about contingency planning, a source familiar with the communications told CNN. As O’Brien noted, the judgment on potential successors, like everything relating to North Korea, is shrouded in uncertainty.
North Korea experts and current and former diplomats note that the longer Kim remains out of public site, questions about his health become more concerning. Pyongyang has every incentive to dispel questions about Kim’s fitness to lead by, for instance, showing him in public, to demonstrate his leadership both to its own population and to the world.
North Korea has taken some apparent steps to push back on speculation about Kim’s health.
On Monday, North Korean state media did publish a recent letter from the country’s leader to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa congratulating him on Freedom Day.
CNN has no way of independently verifying the authenticity of the letter and has reported conflicting beliefs by various government officials on Kim’s health condition in the past week.
The message was dated April 27, 2020, KCNA reported, as speculation mounted over Kim’s health after he missed the celebration of his grandfather’s birthday on April 15.
On Sunday, North Korean state newspaper Rodong Sinmun said Kim sent thanks to workers who helped in remodeling the city of Samjiyon in North Korea. CNN could not independently confirm the authenticity of Sunday’s report and whether the note of thanks came directly from the leader.
South Korea believes he is alive
Meanwhile, it is clear that South Korea remains very skeptical about reports related to Kim’s deteriorating health, insisting information of this nature is top secret and would not even be shared with North Korean allies such as China.
“Our government position is firm,” Moon Chung-in, the top foreign policy adviser to South Korean President Moon Jae-in, told CNN on Sunday. “Kim Jong Un is alive and well. He has been staying in the Wonsan area since April 13. No suspicious movements have so far been detected.”
On Saturday, a website specializing in North Korean affairs published satellite images that researchers said shows a train “probably belonging to Kim Jong Un” has been parked at a railway station serving Kim’s luxurious Wonson compound on the country’s eastern coast since at least April 21.
The presence of the train does not prove Kim is at the Wonson compound but “does lend weight” to reports that he is staying in the area, according to the article published by 38 North, a website that publishes analysis on North Korean affairs and is a project of the Henry L. Stimson Center, a Washington-based think tank.
38 North reported that the station where the train is parked is “reserved for use by the Kim family.” Satellite images indicate the train, not present in the area on April 15, arrived sometime before April 21 and continued to be at the location on April 23. By April 23, the train “appeared to be repositioned for departure,” according to 38 North.
The Wonson complex, according to 38 North, includes leisure facilities such as nine large guesthouses, a recreation center, a large building constructed after Kim came to power, a protected port, a shooting range, a recreation building, a covered dock, and a small runway converted in 2019 into a horse-riding track, a hobby of Kim’s.
The beachfront area, where Kim spent summers as a child, is a place the North Korean leader is known to enjoy frequenting. Kim, however, often travels by plane or drives to Wonson. The presence of the train raises the possibility that it may be used for some sort of a formal procession outside of Wonson.
Kim’s father, Kim Jong-Il, reportedly died on his train, and his body was then transported on it in a formal fashion.
A US defense official said Monday that the US has intelligence supporting the 38 North report’s conclusion about Kim’s location.


mercurynews--2020-04-28--Trump says he takes no responsibility for cleaner misuse

President Donald Trump said Monday that he takes no responsibility for a spike in people using disinfectants improperly after dangerously suggesting last week that ingesting it could serve as a coronavirus treatment .
Asked about the increase during a White House news conference , Trump said : “ I can ’ t imagine why.
” When asked if he takes any responsibility for the spike , Trump answered : “ No , I don ’ t. ” Last week , Trump incorrectly suggested during a White House coronavirus briefing that ingesting disinfectants or taking in sunlight could possibly be used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Homeland Security official was discussing experiments where disinfectants like bleach and isopropyl alcohol quickly killed the virus on nonporous surfaces .
Trump then mused about whether disinfectants could be used to treat the virus in humans — asking whether there is “ a way we can do something like that , by injection inside or almost a cleaning.
” It prompted cleaning product companies and state health officials to issue warnings about the dangers of their ingestion .
A day after Trump ’ s statement , the US Centers for Disease Control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ household disinfectants properly .
Trump later falsely claimed that he was being sarcastic and that he was prompting officials to look into the effect of disinfectant on hands — not through ingestion or injection .
Maryland Gov .
Larry Hogan , a Republican , said Sunday his state fielded hundreds of calls from people across his state asking whether injecting or ingesting disinfectants was an effective way to combat coronavirus .
“ I think it is critical that the President of the United States , when people are really scared and in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in these press conferences , that we really get the facts out there , ” Hogan told Margaret Brennan on CBS ’ “ Face the Nation.
” Illinois has also said they experienced a significant increase in calls to poison control following the President ’ s statement .
Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said the calls have included someone using a detergent based solution for a sinus rinse and another person gargling with a bleach and mouthwash mixture to kill germs .

By Nikki Carvajal and Maegan Vazquez | CNN
President Donald Trump said Monday that he takes no responsibility for a spike in people using disinfectants improperly after dangerously suggesting last week that ingesting it could serve as a coronavirus treatment.
Asked about the increase during a White House news conference, Trump said: “I can’t imagine why.”
When asked if he takes any responsibility for the spike, Trump answered: “No, I don’t.”
Last week, Trump incorrectly suggested during a White House coronavirus briefing that ingesting disinfectants or taking in sunlight could possibly be used to treat coronavirus patients.
A Department of Homeland Security official was discussing experiments where disinfectants like bleach and isopropyl alcohol quickly killed the virus on nonporous surfaces. Trump then mused about whether disinfectants could be used to treat the virus in humans — asking whether there is “a way we can do something like that, by injection inside or almost a cleaning.”
It prompted cleaning product companies and state health officials to issue warnings about the dangers of their ingestion. A day after Trump’s statement, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a reminder on using household disinfectants properly.
Trump later falsely claimed that he was being sarcastic and that he was prompting officials to look into the effect of disinfectant on hands — not through ingestion or injection.
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican, said Sunday his state fielded hundreds of calls from people across his state asking whether injecting or ingesting disinfectants was an effective way to combat coronavirus.
“I think it is critical that the President of the United States, when people are really scared and in the middle of this worldwide pandemic, that in these press conferences, that we really get the facts out there,” Hogan told Margaret Brennan on CBS’ “Face the Nation.”
Illinois has also said they experienced a significant increase in calls to poison control following the President’s statement. Illinois Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said the calls have included someone using a detergent based solution for a sinus rinse and another person gargling with a bleach and mouthwash mixture to kill germs.


mercurynews--2020-04-28--Ex-Antioch cop says she was fired for trying to get pregnant, accuses officer of firing paint gun ab

Ex-Antioch cop says she was fired for trying to get pregnant, accuses officer of firing paint gun above her head

A former Antioch police officer has filed a federal lawsuit against the city ’ s police department , claiming that she was retaliated against and fired for trying to start a family , and accusing a former colleague of firing a paintball over her head during training .
In the lawsuit , Brittney Blanco accused her former employees of using the fact that she was trying to get pregnant to extend her probation period and eventually fire her .
The suit seeks unspecified damages , naming the police department and the city as defendants .
Blanco ’ s suit also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hulleman , “ shot a simulated round ( which contained a paint projectile ) over ( Blanco ’ s ) head , almost hitting her ” when they were in a training exercise together .
As a result , Blanco asked to never work on the same shift as Hulleman , a request she claims was ignored .
Hulleman , a former San Mateo firefighter , was hired by the Antioch police department in February 2018 , according to a social media post by the city .
The suit says Blanco was fired @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tammany Brooks , when asked for comment on the suit , released a statement saying officials can ’ t comment on Blanco ’ s departure from the police force , “ as much as we would like to.
” “ However , the Department intends to vigorously defend itself against this litigation , ” Brooks ’ statement continues .
“ The Department has in place strict policies and practices prohibiting any type of discrimination , as well as a zero-tolerance approach toward such unlawful conduct .
Brooks later added : “ Our core @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and responsibility , and we always will strive towards excellence in providing the highest level of public safety service as well as fairness and equal opportunity for all of our employees.
” The suit says that two months after Blanco had a miscarriage in March 2019 , Brooks approached her and asked if she was trying to get pregnant again , which she answered affirmatively .
Blanco was placed on an employee improvement plan “ around this same time , ” and her probationary period was extended in June , the suit alleges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s “ registered domestic partner ’ s ex-brother-in-law , ” and says there was ongoing tension between them .
It says she made the request that they not be assigned to work together because she was concerned he wouldn ’ t adequately protect her .
The suit is still in its early stages .
In May , a federal judge will determine whether to let it proceed .
If the judge rules in Blanco ’ s favor , the first hearings are set to start in July .

A former Antioch police officer has filed a federal lawsuit against the city’s police department, claiming that she was retaliated against and fired for trying to start a family, and accusing a former colleague of firing a paintball over her head during training.
In the lawsuit, Brittney Blanco accused her former employees of using the fact that she was trying to get pregnant to extend her probation period and eventually fire her. The suit seeks unspecified damages, naming the police department and the city as defendants.
Blanco’s suit also claims that a fellow officer, John Hulleman, “shot a simulated round (which contained a paint projectile) over (Blanco’s) head, almost hitting her” when they were in a training exercise together. As a result, Blanco asked to never work on the same shift as Hulleman, a request she claims was ignored.
Blanco, a former San Mateo firefighter, was hired by the Antioch police department in February 2018, according to a social media post by the city. The suit says Blanco was fired in August 2019. According to state employment records, Hulleman joined Antioch police in February of 2014 and prior to that worked for two years as a Contra Costa sheriff’s deputy.
Antioch police Chief Tammany Brooks, when asked for comment on the suit, released a statement saying officials can’t comment on Blanco’s departure from the police force, “as much as we would like to.”
“However, the Department intends to vigorously defend itself against this litigation,” Brooks’ statement continues. “The Department has in place strict policies and practices prohibiting any type of discrimination, as well as a zero-tolerance approach toward such unlawful conduct.
Brooks later added: “Our core values continue to be compassion, integrity and responsibility, and we always will strive towards excellence in providing the highest level of public safety service as well as fairness and equal opportunity for all of our employees.”
The suit says that two months after Blanco had a miscarriage in March 2019, Brooks approached her and asked if she was trying to get pregnant again, which she answered affirmatively. Blanco was placed on an employee improvement plan “around this same time,” and her probationary period was extended in June, the suit alleges.
The suit describes Hulleman as Blanco’s “registered domestic partner’s ex-brother-in-law,” and says there was ongoing tension between them. It says she made the request that they not be assigned to work together because she was concerned he wouldn’t adequately protect her.
The suit is still in its early stages. In May, a federal judge will determine whether to let it proceed. If the judge rules in Blanco’s favor, the first hearings are set to start in July.
Staff writer David Debolt contributed reporting.


mercurynews--2020-04-28--CVS plans to unveil free drive-up coronavirus testing program at 1,000 U.S. locations

CVS announced a new plan Monday to significantly boost its coronavirus testing capacity nationwide .
The pharmacy is aiming to open 1,000 coronavirus testing locations across the United States by the end of May , CVS said in a Monday press release .
The company hopes to process about 1.5 million tests per month , provided supplies and lab capacity are available .
Customers will use self-swab tests after setting up appointments online via the CVS Minute Clinic portal .
After dropping their test off , they should expect to receive a call from CVS with their results within a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company will roll out the testing to MinuteClinic locations first .
There are about 60 such stores in California , including locations in Burlingame , Campbell , Cupertino , Danville , Mountain View , San Francisco , San Jose , San Mateo , Santa Clara , Sunnyvale and Walnut Creek .
You can find a location on the CVS website , though testing is not available yet in California .
The pharmacy is currently conducting testing in Connecticut , Georgia , Massachusetts , Michigan and Rhode Island .
Its first location opened in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be drive-up only , meaning those on foot can not be tested .
Anyone who wants to be tested must set up a time and location , then bring proof of identity and state residence when they arrive .
They don ’ t need a doctor ’ s note but must meet the CDC ’ s guidelines for seeking testing , which you can read here .
CVS did not specify which of its Minute Clinic locations would be up and operating first — the company is working with federal and local @ @ @ @ @ @

CVS announced a new plan Monday to significantly boost its coronavirus testing capacity nationwide.
The pharmacy is aiming to open 1,000 coronavirus testing locations across the United States by the end of May, CVS said in a Monday press release. The company hopes to process about 1.5 million tests per month, provided supplies and lab capacity are available.
Customers will use self-swab tests after setting up appointments online via the CVS Minute Clinic portal. After dropping their test off, they should expect to receive a call from CVS with their results within a few days.
A spokesperson said the company will roll out the testing to MinuteClinic locations first. There are about 60 such stores in California, including locations in Burlingame, Campbell, Cupertino, Danville, Mountain View, San Francisco, San Jose, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale and Walnut Creek. You can find a location on the CVS website, though testing is not available yet in California.
Related Articles Health | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
San Jose office building wobbles into default — again Health | College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds
College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds Health | One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining
One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining Health | Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms
Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge The pharmacy is currently conducting testing in Connecticut, Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan and Rhode Island. Its first location opened in Massachusetts on March 19.
The sites will be drive-up only, meaning those on foot cannot be tested. Anyone who wants to be tested must set up a time and location, then bring proof of identity and state residence when they arrive. They don’t need a doctor’s note but must meet the CDC’s guidelines for seeking testing, which you can read here.
CVS did not specify which of its Minute Clinic locations would be up and operating first — the company is working with federal and local governments to determine that timeline.


mercurynews--2020-04-28--Freed from lockdown, New Zealanders hit fast food, coffee joints

WELLINGTON – New Zealanders queued for burgers , fries and coffee takeaway on Tuesday after they were freed from a month-long lockdown , which Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credited with eliminating domestic transmission of the coronavirus .
Around 400,000 people returned to work after Ardern shifted the country ’ s alert level down a notch , loosening some of the tough movement restrictions that shut down businesses for weeks .
“ It ’ s hard to explain how good this tastes , ” Christopher Bishop , a lawmaker , said on Twitter after posting a picture with a take away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snaked up to McDonald ’ s outlets in Auckland and Wellington from the early hours as people sought a fast food fix .
“ We got quarter pounders , Big Macs , drinks … I ’ ve still got two cheeseburgers left but I can ’ t finish them , ” Tai Perez , who arrived at a McDonald ’ s outlet in Auckland at 4am , was quoted as saying by the New Zealand Herald .
New Zealand ’ s 5 million residents were subjected to one of the strictest lockdowns in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic , with Ardern shutting down much of the country from March 26 .
Ardern said those measures had paid off .
New Zealand has reported just 1,122 confirmed cases of COVID-19 , including 19 deaths , one of the lowest tallies in the world .
“ We can say with confidence that we do not have community transmission in New Zealand .
The trick now is to maintain that , ” Ardern told Radio New Zealand on Tuesday .
There was growing debate among officials and academics about the terminology that should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ status in relation to the coronavirus spread , with some saying “ elimination ” would not allow for recurrent small numbers of cases .
They point to the fact that the country reported five new cases and one death yesterday .
“ When I talk about elimination it does not mean zero cases , it means zero tolerance for cases , ” Ardern said .
“ The idea of COVID being completely gone , that is eradication – so there are important differences there.
” New Zealand is maintaining several social distancing policies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level with malls pubs , hairdressers and other public shopping areas to stay shut for at least another two weeks .
Siouxsie Wiles , a microbiologist and associate professor at the University of Auckland , was among those warning the virus could return if lockdown measures were eased too quickly .
“ If we turn our backs for a minute , we ’ ll be on the path to a serious outbreak once again .
And we ’ ve seen this happen overseas , ” Wiles wrote in a column on the online @ @ @ @ @

By Praveen Menon | Reuters
WELLINGTON – New Zealanders queued for burgers, fries and coffee takeaway on Tuesday after they were freed from a month-long lockdown, which Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern credited with eliminating domestic transmission of the coronavirus.
Around 400,000 people returned to work after Ardern shifted the country’s alert level down a notch, loosening some of the tough movement restrictions that shut down businesses for weeks.
“It’s hard to explain how good this tastes,” Christopher Bishop, a lawmaker, said on Twitter after posting a picture with a take away coffee cup.
Long queues of cars snaked up to McDonald’s outlets in Auckland and Wellington from the early hours as people sought a fast food fix.
“We got quarter pounders, Big Macs, drinks … I’ve still got two cheeseburgers left but I can’t finish them,” Tai Perez, who arrived at a McDonald’s outlet in Auckland at 4am, was quoted as saying by the New Zealand Herald.
New Zealand’s 5 million residents were subjected to one of the strictest lockdowns in the world in response to the coronavirus pandemic, with Ardern shutting down much of the country from March 26.
Ardern said those measures had paid off. New Zealand has reported just 1,122 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 19 deaths, one of the lowest tallies in the world.
“We can say with confidence that we do not have community transmission in New Zealand. The trick now is to maintain that,” Ardern told Radio New Zealand on Tuesday.
There was growing debate among officials and academics about the terminology that should be used for New Zealand’s status in relation to the coronavirus spread, with some saying “elimination” would not allow for recurrent small numbers of cases. They point to the fact that the country reported five new cases and one death yesterday.
“When I talk about elimination it does not mean zero cases, it means zero tolerance for cases,” Ardern said. “The idea of COVID being completely gone, that is eradication – so there are important differences there.”
Related Articles National News | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
San Jose office building wobbles into default — again National News | College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds
College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds National News | One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining
One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining National News | Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms
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 New Zealand is maintaining several social distancing policies despite the step down in the alert level with malls pubs, hairdressers and other public shopping areas to stay shut for at least another two weeks.
Siouxsie Wiles, a microbiologist and associate professor at the University of Auckland, was among those warning the virus could return if lockdown measures were eased too quickly.
“If we turn our backs for a minute, we’ll be on the path to a serious outbreak once again. And we’ve seen this happen overseas,” Wiles wrote in a column on the online news site The Spinoff.


mercurynews--2020-04-28--Man charged with starting Pleasanton house fire in fit of anger over personal conflict

A 39-year-old Pleasanton man has been arrested and charged with multiple crimes after authorities said the man , angry over a personal conflict , used a blowtorch to set his own clothes on fire while his children were inside the home .
In a statement Monday , Pleasanton police said detectives arrested Kent Hermanson last Thursday on suspicion of aggravated arson , child endangerment and domestic violence in connection with a suspicious fire around 4:30 a.m. April 17 at a single-family home in the 5500 block of Paseo Navarro near Hansen Park .
One police officer said in a probable-cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported that he was still angry about an earlier interpersonal conflict when he yelled at her to get the couple ’ s children out of the house — using a blowtorch to set his own clothes on fire .
Authorities said Hermanson was not wearing the clothes at the time he started the blaze , but not did not provide more specific details .
She , at least one other adult and several juveniles were able to evacuate on their own and were not hurt in the fire ; Hermanson was also unhurt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a half-hour , with the house suffering major damage and three neighboring homes evacuated as a precaution .
At the scene , an officer placed Hermanson on a wellness hold , but he refused to give a statement after being read his Miranda rights .
Livermore-Pleasanton Fire officials took over an arson investigation , while his wife was given a protection order .
The Alameda County District Attorney ’ s office on Monday charged Hermanson with one count of felony arson of an inhabited structure , as well as four counts of child @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He was listed in custody Monday afternoon at Santa Rita Jail , and faced an arraignment hearing Tuesday at Dublin ’ s East County Hall of Justice , according to a county records check .
Staff writer Angela Ruggiero contributed to this report .
Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180 .

A 39-year-old Pleasanton man has been arrested and charged with multiple crimes after authorities said the man, angry over a personal conflict, used a blowtorch to set his own clothes on fire while his children were inside the home.
In a statement Monday, Pleasanton police said detectives arrested Kent Hermanson last Thursday on suspicion of aggravated arson, child endangerment and domestic violence in connection with a suspicious fire around 4:30 a.m. April 17 at a single-family home in the 5500 block of Paseo Navarro near Hansen Park.
One police officer said in a probable-cause declaration that Hermanson’s wife had reported that he was still angry about an earlier interpersonal conflict when he yelled at her to get the couple’s children out of the house — using a blowtorch to set his own clothes on fire.
Authorities said Hermanson was not wearing the clothes at the time he started the blaze, but not did not provide more specific details.
She, at least one other adult and several juveniles were able to evacuate on their own and were not hurt in the fire; Hermanson was also unhurt. Firefighters brought flames under control in a half-hour, with the house suffering major damage and three neighboring homes evacuated as a precaution.
At the scene, an officer placed Hermanson on a wellness hold, but he refused to give a statement after being read his Miranda rights. Livermore-Pleasanton Fire officials took over an arson investigation, while his wife was given a protection order.
The Alameda County District Attorney’s office on Monday charged Hermanson with one count of felony arson of an inhabited structure, as well as four counts of child abuse, according to a charging document.
He was listed in custody Monday afternoon at Santa Rita Jail, and faced an arraignment hearing Tuesday at Dublin’s East County Hall of Justice, according to a county records check.
Staff writer Angela Ruggiero contributed to this report. Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.


mercurynews--2020-04-27--Silicon Valley coronavirus relief fund nears $25 million, more still needed

A coronavirus relief fund for Santa Clara County residents has raised nearly $ 25 million so far , but even that lofty sum won ’ t be enough to help everyone in need .
More than 15,000 households have applied for aid , Destination : Home CEO Jennifer Loving , one of the fund ’ s organizers , said Monday .
Each family needs an average of $ 2,600 — meaning the fund would have to swell to $ 39 million just to cover those who already have applied .
“ What we know is it ’ s not going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not by any stretch helping everyone who has asked us for help , ” Loving said during a conversation with San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo broadcast over Facebook Live .
The Silicon Valley Strong fund launched late last month with more than $ 11 million provided by local nonprofits and businesses , as well as the county and the city of San Jose .
The intent was to serve people who have lost their income due to the COVID-19 pandemic and can no longer pay their rent or other bills .
But demand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after it launched , the fund ran out of money — shocking and dismaying its organizers , who began putting applicants on a waitlist .
They had received 4,600 requests in those first few days — sometimes at a rate of two applications per minute — which they knew would exhaust the $ 11 million .
So organizers put out a desperate plea for more help , and additional donations poured in — including a $ 1 million pledge from Google .
NBC Bay area also hosted a telethon earlier this month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about 850 people , according to partner SV @ Home .
So far , organizers are about 65 % of the way through distributing funds to those first 4,600 households who applied , Loving said .
“ If you haven ’ t yet gotten help from us , we know that , and I promise you we are really trying , ” she said .
For the next batch of relief , the fund will focus on people , such as undocumented immigrants , who will not receive a stimulus check from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other support , Loving said .
“ There ’ s a lot of need , ” Liccardo said , urging people to donate , “ and we ’ re going to have a long way to go to get out of what ’ s happened to us.
” In addition to providing cash support to prevent families from becoming homeless during the pandemic , Santa Clara County , the city of San Jose and their nonprofit partners also have made progress getting the homeless off the streets and into housing .
Nearly 600 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ county ’ s various housing programs — from motels to new congregate-style shelters — including every known homeless person who has tested positive for COVID-19 , according to the county ’ s public health department .
Since the pandemic began , the county and the city of San Jose have added 1,245 additional beds for the homeless .
Those include 575 motel rooms across 10 sites for people who have COVID-19 or are considered “ at-risk , ” 250 beds at the Santa Clara Convention Center for COVID-19 positive patients , and 420 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hall , South Hall and the Camden Community Center .
The city of San Jose also received more than 100 trailers from the state last month to house the homeless , but has not yet moved anyone in .
And the county is working to add additional hotel and motel rooms to its inventory .
“ Progress is happening , ” Liccardo said .
“ I think that ’ s important for people to know.
” How to donate or get help To get help : If you live in Santa Clara County @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at sacredheartcs.org/covid19 If you need housing : Call 408-278-6420

A coronavirus relief fund for Santa Clara County residents has raised nearly $25 million so far, but even that lofty sum won’t be enough to help everyone in need.
More than 15,000 households have applied for aid, Destination: Home CEO Jennifer Loving, one of the fund’s organizers, said Monday. Each family needs an average of $2,600 — meaning the fund would have to swell to $39 million just to cover those who already have applied.
“What we know is it’s not going to help everybody. It’s not by any stretch helping everyone who has asked us for help,” Loving said during a conversation with San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo broadcast over Facebook Live.
The Silicon Valley Strong fund launched late last month with more than $11 million provided by local nonprofits and businesses, as well as the county and the city of San Jose. The intent was to serve people who have lost their income due to the COVID-19 pandemic and can no longer pay their rent or other bills.
But demand was so high that just three days after it launched, the fund ran out of money — shocking and dismaying its organizers, who began putting applicants on a waitlist. They had received 4,600 requests in those first few days — sometimes at a rate of two applications per minute — which they knew would exhaust the $11 million.
So organizers put out a desperate plea for more help, and additional donations poured in — including a $1 million pledge from Google.
NBC Bay area also hosted a telethon earlier this month, which raised more than $277,000 from about 850 people, according to partner SV@Home.
So far, organizers are about 65% of the way through distributing funds to those first 4,600 households who applied, Loving said.
“If you haven’t yet gotten help from us, we know that, and I promise you we are really trying,” she said.
For the next batch of relief, the fund will focus on people, such as undocumented immigrants, who will not receive a stimulus check from the federal government, enhanced unemployment payments or other support, Loving said.
“There’s a lot of need,” Liccardo said, urging people to donate, “and we’re going to have a long way to go to get out of what’s happened to us.”
In addition to providing cash support to prevent families from becoming homeless during the pandemic, Santa Clara County, the city of San Jose and their nonprofit partners also have made progress getting the homeless off the streets and into housing.
Related Articles Health | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
San Jose office building wobbles into default — again Health | College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds
College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds Health | One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining
One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining Health | Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms
Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge Nearly 600 homeless residents have been placed in the county’s various housing programs — from motels to new congregate-style shelters — including every known homeless person who has tested positive for COVID-19, according to the county’s public health department.
Since the pandemic began, the county and the city of San Jose have added 1,245 additional beds for the homeless. Those include 575 motel rooms across 10 sites for people who have COVID-19 or are considered “at-risk,” 250 beds at the Santa Clara Convention Center for COVID-19 positive patients, and 420 shelter beds at Gateway Pavilion, Parkside Hall, South Hall and the Camden Community Center.
The city of San Jose also received more than 100 trailers from the state last month to house the homeless, but has not yet moved anyone in. And the county is working to add additional hotel and motel rooms to its inventory.
“Progress is happening,” Liccardo said. “I think that’s important for people to know.”
How to donate or get help
To donate: Visit siliconvalleystrong.org or destinationhomesv.org
To get help: If you live in Santa Clara County, add your name to the waitlist at sacredheartcs.org/covid19
If you need housing: Call 408-278-6420