mercurynews--2020-01-23--Trump moves to weaken waterway protections

WASHINGTON — The Trump administration on Thursday ended federal protection for many of the nation ’ s millions of miles of streams , arroyos and wetlands , a sweeping environmental rollback that could leave the waterways more vulnerable to pollution from development , industry and farms .
The policy change , signed by heads of the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers , narrows the types of waterways that qualify for federal protection under the half-century-old Clean Water Act .
The rollbacks are not expected to have a major impact in California , however .
California has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wetlands , streams and water quality , which date back to 1969 .
Also , the State Water Resources Control Board tightened state regulations last spring making it harder to pollute or fill waterways .
Jared Blumenfeld , secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency , called Trump ’ s actions Thursday the latest example of the president ’ s “ radical rollback of environmental and public health protections established over decades with bipartisan support.
” But Blumenfeld added : “ Our state ’ s laws will continue to protect waterways , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first weeks in office , President Donald Trump has targeted environmental and public health regulations that he says imposed unnecessary burdens on business .
Speaking to farmers in Texas on Sunday , Trump repeated his frequent charge that an Obama-era attempt in 2015 to more clearly define what water bodies qualify for federal pollution protection was “ one of the most ridiculous regulations of all.
” Thursday ’ s changes to the clean water rule have long been sought by builders , oil and gas developers , farmers and others .
But environmental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will allow businesses to dump pollutants into newly federally unprotected waterways and fill in some wetlands , threatening public water supplies downstream and harming wildlife and habitat .
EPA head Andrew Wheeler told reporters Thursday that states were still free to step in with state protections of newly vulnerable waterways if they chose .
“ Our rule protects the environment and our waterways while respecting the rights of states and property owners , ” Wheeler said .
The rollback of the clean-water enforcement “ strikes the proper balance between Washington , D.C. and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brett Hartl , a government affairs director with the Center for Biological Diversity conservation advocacy group , called the changes “ a sickening gift to polluters.
” The administration ’ s action “ will allow wetlands , streams and rivers across a vast stretch of America to be obliterated with pollution , ” Hartl said , contending the rollback would speed extinction for dozens of endangered species .
“ People and wildlife need clean water to thrive .
Destroying half of our nation ’ s streams and wetlands will be one of Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rule narrows the Obama administration ’ s 2015 definition of what ’ s a protected body of water and effectively removes safeguards for some waterways that had been put into place with the 1972 Clean Water Act .
The administration says the changes would allow farmers to plow their fields without fear of unintentionally straying over the banks of a federally protected dry creek , bog or ditch .
But the government ’ s own figures show it is real estate developers and those in other nonfarm business sectors that take out the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waterways , and stand to reap the biggest regulatory and financial relief .
Environmental groups said the draft version of the rule released earlier would have lifted federal protections for roughly half of the nation ’ s wetlands and one-fifth of the millions of miles of waterways .
The administration challenges that estimate and says it is not possible to come up with a solid figure for how much of the nation ’ s surface water will be affected .
One of the biggest changes applies to so-called ephemeral waters – creeks and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ snow melt .
Such streams provide a majority of the water for some dry Western states , including New Mexico .
“ That ” s a huge rollback from way before Obama , before Reagan , ” said Blan Holman , a senior attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center .
New Mexico officials have particular concerns given that the Rio Grande , which provides drinking water and irrigation supplies for millions of people in the Southwest and Mexico , depends largely on the types of intermittent streams , creeks and wetlands that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released earlier .
The Rio Grande is one of North America ’ s longest rivers .
In a statement , Democratic Gov .
Michelle Lujan Grisham called the new rule “ an absolute disaster for the state ” s water resources .
Another key change removes federal protections for wetlands deemed not directly connected to a major waterway .
Geoff Gisler , senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center , said it appears millions of acres of the wetlands on the Southeastern coast alone — vital buffers against flooding and climate change @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so-called prairie pothole wetlands in the middle of the country , and others .
The final rule will be published in the Federal Register in the next few days and become effective 60 days after that .
Environmental groups and some states are promising legal challenges .
But Gisler fears developers and others will take Thursday ’ s announcement as a signal , and move quickly – ‘ ” get the bulldozers lined up , and day 61 fill in streams amd wetlands , ” he said .
In South Dakota , farmer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe that wetlands restrictions went too far even before the EPA adopted the 2015 Obama-era rule .
And EPA isn ’ t the only agency that can affect farmers ’ use of their land , he said .
The U.S. Supreme Court in 2017 rejected his petition challenging an Agriculture Department system that determined a small tract of his land was a wetland .
He had argued that repeated snow melt led to standing water .
“ These issues illustrate that … regulations got out of hand and have gone too far , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Paul Rogers contributed to this report .
And Associated Press writers Susan Montoya in Albuquerque , New Mexico , and Tammy Webber in Chicago contributed to this report .

By Ellen Knickmeyer | Associated Press
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration on Thursday ended federal protection for many of the nation’s millions of miles of streams, arroyos and wetlands, a sweeping environmental rollback that could leave the waterways more vulnerable to pollution from development, industry and farms.
The policy change, signed by heads of the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, narrows the types of waterways that qualify for federal protection under the half-century-old Clean Water Act.
The rollbacks are not expected to have a major impact in California, however. California has its own tough state laws to protect wetlands, streams and water quality, which date back to 1969.
Also, the State Water Resources Control Board tightened state regulations last spring making it harder to pollute or fill waterways.
Jared Blumenfeld, secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency, called Trump’s actions Thursday the latest example of the president’s “radical rollback of environmental and public health protections established over decades with bipartisan support.”
But Blumenfeld added: “Our state’s laws will continue to protect waterways, including wetlands, within California.”
Since his first weeks in office, President Donald Trump has targeted environmental and public health regulations that he says imposed unnecessary burdens on business. Speaking to farmers in Texas on Sunday, Trump repeated his frequent charge that an Obama-era attempt in 2015 to more clearly define what water bodies qualify for federal pollution protection was “one of the most ridiculous regulations of all.”
Thursday’s changes to the clean water rule have long been sought by builders, oil and gas developers, farmers and others. But environmental groups and public-health advocates say the rollback will allow businesses to dump pollutants into newly federally unprotected waterways and fill in some wetlands, threatening public water supplies downstream and harming wildlife and habitat.
EPA head Andrew Wheeler told reporters Thursday that states were still free to step in with state protections of newly vulnerable waterways if they chose.
“Our rule protects the environment and our waterways while respecting the rights of states and property owners,” Wheeler said. The rollback of the clean-water enforcement “strikes the proper balance between Washington, D.C. and the states,” he said.
Brett Hartl, a government affairs director with the Center for Biological Diversity conservation advocacy group, called the changes “a sickening gift to polluters.”
The administration’s action “will allow wetlands, streams and rivers across a vast stretch of America to be obliterated with pollution,” Hartl said, contending the rollback would speed extinction for dozens of endangered species. “People and wildlife need clean water to thrive. Destroying half of our nation’s streams and wetlands will be one of Trump’s ugliest legacies.”
The Trump rule narrows the Obama administration’s 2015 definition of what’s a protected body of water and effectively removes safeguards for some waterways that had been put into place with the 1972 Clean Water Act.
The administration says the changes would allow farmers to plow their fields without fear of unintentionally straying over the banks of a federally protected dry creek, bog or ditch. But the government’s own figures show it is real estate developers and those in other nonfarm business sectors that take out the most permits for impinging on wetlands and waterways, and stand to reap the biggest regulatory and financial relief.
Environmental groups said the draft version of the rule released earlier would have lifted federal protections for roughly half of the nation’s wetlands and one-fifth of the millions of miles of waterways. The administration challenges that estimate and says it is not possible to come up with a solid figure for how much of the nation’s surface water will be affected.
One of the biggest changes applies to so-called ephemeral waters – creeks and rivers that run only after rainfalls or snow melt. Such streams provide a majority of the water for some dry Western states, including New Mexico.
“That”s a huge rollback from way before Obama, before Reagan,” said Blan Holman, a senior attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center.
New Mexico officials have particular concerns given that the Rio Grande, which provides drinking water and irrigation supplies for millions of people in the Southwest and Mexico, depends largely on the types of intermittent streams, creeks and wetlands that could lose protection under the rule draft released earlier.
The Rio Grande is one of North America’s longest rivers. In a statement, Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called the new rule “an absolute disaster for the state”s water resources.
Another key change removes federal protections for wetlands deemed not directly connected to a major waterway. Geoff Gisler, senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, said it appears millions of acres of the wetlands on the Southeastern coast alone — vital buffers against flooding and climate change — would lose protections, as would so-called prairie pothole wetlands in the middle of the country, and others.
The final rule will be published in the Federal Register in the next few days and become effective 60 days after that.
Environmental groups and some states are promising legal challenges. But Gisler fears developers and others will take Thursday’s announcement as a signal, and move quickly – ‘”get the bulldozers lined up, and day 61 fill in streams amd wetlands,” he said.
In South Dakota, farmer Arlen Foster said Thursday that many farmers believe that wetlands restrictions went too far even before the EPA adopted the 2015 Obama-era rule. And EPA isn’t the only agency that can affect farmers’ use of their land, he said. The U.S. Supreme Court in 2017 rejected his petition challenging an Agriculture Department system that determined a small tract of his land was a wetland. He had argued that repeated snow melt led to standing water.
“These issues illustrate that … regulations got out of hand and have gone too far,” he said.
Mercury News reporter Paul Rogers contributed to this report. And Associated Press writers Susan Montoya in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Tammy Webber in Chicago contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-01-23--San Jose man dies nearly two weeks after suspected DUI crash

MILPITAS – One 33-year-old San Jose man is dead and another is in custody following a suspected DUI crash in Milpitas earlier this month , authorities announced Thursday .
The collision was reported about 11:20 p.m. Jan. 9 on the 1100 block of Piedmont Road , according to Milpitas police Lt. Frank Morales .
Officers arrived minutes later to find a black 2005 Porsche Cayenne with major damage .
In a news release , Morales said the driver – identified as Danny Zuniga-Perez – was found inside the SUV with non-life-threatening injuries .
His passenger – identified as a 33-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the crash and suffered life-threatening injuries .
The passenger regained a pulse after officers gave him CPR and he was rushed to a hospital .
Morales said officers determined Zuniga-Perez was driving recklessly while under the influence of alcohol and arrested him .
He was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail in San Jose .
An investigation concluded Zuniga-Perez rear-ended another vehicle , which caused his SUV to veer off the roadway , roll several times and slam into a tree , according to Morales .
The other driver suffered a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from his vehicle .
Morales said the passenger died of his injuries on Jan. 12 .
Zuniga-Perez was rearrested Wednesday and booked into jail on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated , driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury and reckless driving .
Anyone with information about the crash can contact the Milpitas Police Department at 408-586-2400 .
Those wishing to remain anonymous can leave a tip at 408-586-2500 or www.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/crimetip .

MILPITAS – One 33-year-old San Jose man is dead and another is in custody following a suspected DUI crash in Milpitas earlier this month, authorities announced Thursday.
The collision was reported about 11:20 p.m. Jan. 9 in the 1100 block of Piedmont Road, according to Milpitas police Lt. Frank Morales. Officers arrived minutes later to find a black 2005 Porsche Cayenne with major damage.
In a news release, Morales said the driver, identified as Danny Zuniga-Perez, was found inside the SUV with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. A passenger was ejected during the crash and was found nearby with life-threatening injuries.
The passenger regained a pulse after officers gave him CPR and he was rushed to a hospital.
Morales said officers determined Zuniga-Perez was driving recklessly while under the influence of alcohol and arrested him. He was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail in San Jose.
An investigation concluded Zuniga-Perez rear-ended another vehicle, which caused his SUV to veer off the roadway, roll several times and slam into a tree, according to Morales. The other driver suffered a broken ankle and had to be freed from his vehicle.
Morales said the passenger died of his injuries on Jan. 12. The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office identified him as Juan Carlos Rodriguez Zuniga, 33, of San Jose.
Zuniga-Perez was rearrested Wednesday and booked into jail on charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, driving under the influence of alcohol causing injury and reckless driving.
Anyone with information about the crash can contact the Milpitas Police Department at 408-586-2400. Those wishing to remain anonymous can leave a tip at 408-586-2500 or www.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/crimetip.


mercurynews--2020-01-23--After 33 years, East Bay cake artist Katrina Rozelle is closing her bakery

Pastry artist Katrina Rozelle Topp is retiring and closing her East Bay baking operation — after 33 years of creating lavish cakes for star-studded events as well as thousands of desserts for everyday celebrations .
Customers have until Feb. 1 to visit and order from her Katrina Rozelle Pastries & Desserts shop in Alamo .
Her original location , in Oakland ’ s Rockridge neighborhood , has already shut its doors .
“ Though a bittersweet decision , it ’ s time to step back and slow down , ” she and her husband , Ken , announced in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s over-the-top creations have included a replica of San Francisco ’ s Grace Cathedral , complete with arches and 450 handmade roses , to feed 650 guests ( that one took four hours to set up , using stepladders ) and a 7-foot-tall masked cake for the San Francisco Opera .
But thousands in the Bay Area will remember her for the cakes baked for their epic weddings , milestone birthdays , golden anniversaries and holiday celebrations .
Photos on the website depict fondant-draped cakes in the shape of handbags , a Noah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mitzvah , a duck pond creation for a nature enthusiast ’ s birthday , a Texas-themed cake for someone moving to the Lone Star State — and a stunning “ Will You Marry Me ?
” cake in the form of a gift box that opens to reveal a sweet engagement ring .
Even what she called her “ Everyday Cakes ” were special , with their layers of hazelnut-chocolate ganache and ribbons of mango mousse .
In an interview , she said , “ I simply can ’ t adequately express how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ efforts has been .
I can only say that , as with any small brick-and-mortar business , we would never have succeeded without the strong support of our local community.
” To that end , Topp has a post-retirement gift planned for those loyal customers : She is hoping to head into her kitchen to reformat her recipes for home use , and will make those available via a book or blog .
“ We have been absolutely swamped with business since word got out that we are closing , ” she said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ still producing a limited array of whole cakes for purchase , including the Obsession , Gianduja Mousse , Erica Torte , Mocha Madness , Chocolate Decadence , Almond Vanilla and Lemon Chiffon .
They also will offer their full line of cookies , along with chocolate cupcakes and gluten-free carrot cupcakes , as long as supplies last .
A California Culinary Academy graduate , Topp started her career at Narsai ’ s in Kensington , then became the pastry chef at Délices in Walnut Creek .
She opened her eponymous College Avenue shop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1991 .
Over the years , her cakes have been featured in Brides , Town and Country and Style magazines , and she has demonstrated her skills at the Chefs ’ Holiday events at Yosemite ’ s Ahwahnee hotel .
• Taco Bell to bring back Nacho Fries , this time with a spicy twist • 7 amazing Bay Area things to do this weekend Details : The Alamo location of Katrina Rozelle Pastries & Desserts will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Plaza , Alamo ; 925-837-6337 ; www.katrinarozelle.com .

It’s a sweet chapter with a bittersweet end.
Pastry artist Katrina Rozelle Topp is retiring and closing her East Bay baking operation — after 33 years of creating lavish cakes for star-studded events as well as thousands of desserts for everyday celebrations.
Customers have until Feb. 1 to visit and order from her Katrina Rozelle Pastries & Desserts shop in Alamo. Her original location, in Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood, has already shut its doors.
“Though a bittersweet decision, it’s time to step back and slow down,” she and her husband, Ken, announced in a note on the website.
Topp’s over-the-top creations have included a replica of San Francisco’s Grace Cathedral, complete with arches and 450 handmade roses, to feed 650 guests (that one took four hours to set up, using stepladders) and a 7-foot-tall masked cake for the San Francisco Opera.
But thousands in the Bay Area will remember her for the cakes baked for their epic weddings, milestone birthdays, golden anniversaries and holiday celebrations. Photos on the website depict fondant-draped cakes in the shape of handbags, a Noah’s ark cake for a bar mitzvah, a duck pond creation for a nature enthusiast’s birthday, a Texas-themed cake for someone moving to the Lone Star State — and a stunning “Will You Marry Me?” cake in the form of a gift box that opens to reveal a sweet engagement ring.
Even what she called her “Everyday Cakes” were special, with their layers of hazelnut-chocolate ganache and ribbons of mango mousse.
In an interview, she said, “I simply can’t adequately express how touching the outpouring of appreciation for our efforts has been. I can only say that, as with any small brick-and-mortar business, we would never have succeeded without the strong support of our local community.”
To that end, Topp has a post-retirement gift planned for those loyal customers:
She is hoping to head into her kitchen to reformat her recipes for home use, and will make those available via a book or blog.
“We have been absolutely swamped with business since word got out that we are closing,” she said, but her team of bakers is still producing a limited array of whole cakes for purchase, including the Obsession, Gianduja Mousse, Erica Torte, Mocha Madness, Chocolate Decadence, Almond Vanilla and Lemon Chiffon.
They also will offer their full line of cookies, along with chocolate cupcakes and gluten-free carrot cupcakes, as long as supplies last.
A California Culinary Academy graduate, Topp started her career at Narsai’s in Kensington, then became the pastry chef at Délices in Walnut Creek. She opened her eponymous College Avenue shop in 1987 and the Alamo one in 1991. Over the years, her cakes have been featured in Brides, Town and Country and Style magazines, and she has demonstrated her skills at the Chefs’ Holiday events at Yosemite’s Ahwahnee hotel.


mercurynews--2020-01-23--Newsom: California firefighters died in Australia tanker crash

SACRAMENTO — California ’ s governor says the three American flight crew members who died when their aerial water tanker @ @ @ @ @ southeastern Australia were part of a crew on a California-based tanker .
Gov .
Gavin @ @ @ @ @ Thursday did not identify the crew members but called them heroes .
The premier of @ @ @ @ @ Wales confirmed the crash deaths in the Snowy Monaro region as Australia attempts to deal @ @ @ @ @ that has left a large swath of destruction .
Canada-based Coulson Aviation says one of @ @ @ @ @ was lost after it left Richmond in New South Wales with retardant for a firebombing @ @

SACRAMENTO — California’s governor says the three American flight crew members who died when their aerial water tanker crashed while battling wildfires in southeastern Australia were part of a crew on a California-based tanker.
Gov. Gavin Newsom in a statement on Thursday called them heroes.
The premier of Australia’s New South Wales confirmed the crash deaths in the Snowy Monaro region as Australia attempts to deal with an unprecedented fire season that has left a large swath of destruction.
Canada-based Coulson Aviation says one of its Lockheed large air tankers was lost after it left Richmond in New South Wales with retardant for a firebombing mission.
The company identified the victims as Capt. Ian H. McBeth, 45, of Great Falls, Mont.; first officer Paul C. Hudson, 42, of Buckeye, Ariz.; and flight engineer Rick A. DeMorgan Jr., 37, of Navarre, Fla.
“At Coulson Aviation, we have the incredible job of fighting fires around the world and we take pride in this responsibility. Right now, our hearts are with the crew’s family and friends and our Coulson Family suffering in the loss of these three remarkable and well-respected crewmembers,” the company said in part in a statement Thursday night.
“We as a company are committed to supporting the families of our fallen heroes through this tragedy. Our crews in Australia are fully supported by the RFS with their critical incident support personnel. Our crews on the other aircraft will be returning to work in the very near future as they are dedicated to the job we are required to do. We must continue to work with emergency services to protect local communities.”
McBeth, who flew C-130s as a pilot, instructor and evaluator, was an experienced firefighter who earned initial-attack qualifications in 2018. He had previously served with the Wyoming Air National Guard, and was serving with the Montana Air National Guard. He is survived by his wife and three children.
Hudson, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate, retired as a decorated U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel after 20 years’ service, including C-130 flying time. He is survived by his wife.
DeMorgan, a U.S. Air Force veteran, had 4,000 hours as a C-130 flight engineer with nearly 2,000 hours in combat. He is survived by two children.
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A tweet from the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District’s account Thursday acknowledged the plane’s crew for its help during a Concord fire late last spring: “Con Fire’s hearts are heavy over the loss of Coulson Aviation Tanker 134 & her crew today. Before heading to Australia, 134 supported Con Fire including at a fire at Evora Road & Hwy. 4 in June.
“Our condolences to family and colleagues for the loss of these heroes. #AirTanker134”
Con Fire's hearts are heavy over the loss of Coulson Aviation Tanker 134 & her crew today. Before heading to Australia, 134 supported Con Fire including at a fire at Evora Road & Hwy. 4 in June. Our condolences to family and colleagues for the loss of these heroes. #AirTanker134 pic.twitter.com/NrjhEsFDi7 — Con Fire PIO (@ContraCostaFire) January 24, 2020
Staff writer George Kelly contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-01-23--Land shark? Scientists find four new species that walk

So — some sharks walk .
Just not the scary ones .
While great whites haunt the deep , walking sharks are content to scuttle in the shallows .
They ’ ve been walking , or something close to it , for at least 9 million years .
They ’ re evolutionary superstars , too : Walking sharks could be the most recently evolved shark on Earth .
That ’ s according to findings published this week in Marine and Freshwater Research .
Shark scientists spent years sampling the DNA of the only known walking shark species to estimate when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ species while they were at it .
The youngest species might ’ ve evolved less than 2 million years ago .
And by evolutionary standards , that ’ s recent — and a major contradiction to the widely held belief that sharks are slow to evolve .
“ The discovery proves that modern sharks have remarkable evolutionary staying power and the ability to adapt to environmental changes , ” said Mark Erdmann , the paper ’ s co-author and Conservation International Vice President of Asia-Pacific marine programs .
Sharks are older than dinosaurs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as 400 million years ( the oldest dinosaur fossil is thought to be about 240 million years old , by comparison ) .
So the fact that sharks continue to evolve as recently as 399 million years later is pretty remarkable .
How they walk and where they do it Walking sharks , also called “ epaulette ” sharks for their spots that resemble the military decor , “ walk ” on their muscular fins to forage for small fish along shallow reefs and sea grass .
It ’ s a behavior partially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ landscapes , which ultimately influenced where most of the nine known species settled — eastern Indonesia and neighboring islands , New Guinea and parts of Australia .
Based on differences in the sharks ’ DNA , scientists created estimated evolutionary timelines .
They found walking sharks started to split off from their evolutionary relatives around 9 million years ago .
During mass extinction events , carpet sharks , the group that includes walking sharks , were among the “ most affected ” animals , researchers wrote .
Sea levels rose and ocean temperatures @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to warmer waters .
Sharks off the coast of Australia “ hitched a ride ” on moving tectonic plates all the way to New Guinea , researchers said .
When the plates stopped shifting , the land settled , creating barriers for species to migrate .
This might be why the sharks ’ habitat rarely overlap , they wrote .
Erdman said the group hopes their research could encourage conservationists to add a few of the sharks to the IUCN Red List , a global inventory of threatened species , based on how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A global recognition of the need to protect walking sharks will help ensure they thrive providing benefits for marine ecosystems and to local communities through the sharks ’ value as tourism assets , ” he said .
“ It ’ s essential that local communities , governments and the international public continue working to establish marine protected areas to help ensure our ocean ’ s biodiversity continues to flourish .
”

By Scottie Andrew | CNN
So — some sharks walk. Just not the scary ones.
While great whites haunt the deep, walking sharks are content to scuttle in the shallows.
They’ve been walking, or something close to it, for at least 9 million years.
They’re evolutionary superstars, too: Walking sharks could be the most recently evolved shark on Earth.
That’s according to findings published this week in Marine and Freshwater Research. Shark scientists spent years sampling the DNA of the only known walking shark species to estimate when they evolved. They found four new species while they were at it.
The youngest species might’ve evolved less than 2 million years ago. And by evolutionary standards, that’s recent — and a major contradiction to the widely held belief that sharks are slow to evolve.
“The discovery proves that modern sharks have remarkable evolutionary staying power and the ability to adapt to environmental changes,” said Mark Erdmann, the paper’s co-author and Conservation International Vice President of Asia-Pacific marine programs.
Sharks are older than dinosaurs, dominating the seas for as long as 400 million years (the oldest dinosaur fossil is thought to be about 240 million years old, by comparison). So the fact that sharks continue to evolve as recently as 399 million years later is pretty remarkable.
How they walk and where they do it
Walking sharks, also called “epaulette” sharks for their spots that resemble the military decor, “walk” on their muscular fins to forage for small fish along shallow reefs and sea grass.
It’s a behavior partially driven by changing sea levels and shifting landscapes, which ultimately influenced where most of the nine known species settled — eastern Indonesia and neighboring islands, New Guinea and parts of Australia.
Based on differences in the sharks’ DNA, scientists created estimated evolutionary timelines. They found walking sharks started to split off from their evolutionary relatives around 9 million years ago.
During mass extinction events, carpet sharks, the group that includes walking sharks, were among the “most affected” animals, researchers wrote. Sea levels rose and ocean temperatures dropped, pushing the sharks to migrate to warmer waters.
Sharks off the coast of Australia “hitched a ride” on moving tectonic plates all the way to New Guinea, researchers said. When the plates stopped shifting, the land settled, creating barriers for species to migrate.
This might be why the sharks’ habitat rarely overlap, they wrote.
Hope for walking sharks’ future
Erdman said the group hopes their research could encourage conservationists to add a few of the sharks to the IUCN Red List, a global inventory of threatened species, based on how little is known about them.
“A global recognition of the need to protect walking sharks will help ensure they thrive providing benefits for marine ecosystems and to local communities through the sharks’ value as tourism assets,” he said. “It’s essential that local communities, governments and the international public continue working to establish marine protected areas to help ensure our ocean’s biodiversity continues to flourish.”


mercurynews--2020-01-24--Letter: Move Stanford’s King Institute to UC Berkeley

Re : “ Amid tech glory , MLK legacy lives in humility : Historian fears King collection is not a priority for Stanford ” ( Page A1 , Jan. 20 ) : What a sad representation of Stanford ’ s priorities by Clayborne Carson , director of the King Institute at Stanford .
Amidst one of the largest endowments of a U.S. university , this key institute ’ s future is at risk .
Perhaps relocating to UC Berkeley , the King Institute would find a home at a university where social justice is embedded in its DNA ?
UC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ multidisciplinary programs that promote social justice .
Additionally , there is even a street named for MLK right in the city .
King likely gave his 1967 talk at Stanford because this was the audience he needed to galvanize , to educate and to motivate around making a commitment to social change and social justice .
• Letter : Trump on trial for acting like US is his private firm • Letter : Trapping the Bay Area in amber will destroy all we care about • Letter : Khan will bring to SJ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Obama Apparently , his talk made no impact on the Stanford administration ’ s commitment to making the teachings of social justice a priority for future generations of students .
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Move Stanford’s King
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Re: “Amid tech glory, MLK legacy lives in humility: Historian fears King collection is not a priority for Stanford” (Page A1, Jan. 20):
What a sad representation of Stanford’s priorities by Clayborne Carson, director of the King Institute at Stanford.
Amidst one of the largest endowments of a U.S. university, this key institute’s future is at risk. Perhaps relocating to UC Berkeley, the King Institute would find a home at a university where social justice is embedded in its DNA?
UC Berkeley houses numerous organizations, institutes and multidisciplinary programs that promote social justice. Additionally, there is even a street named for MLK right in the city.
King likely gave his 1967 talk at Stanford because this was the audience he needed to galvanize, to educate and to motivate around making a commitment to social change and social justice.
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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 Apparently, his talk made no impact on the Stanford administration’s commitment to making the teachings of social justice a priority for future generations of students.
Andrea Bloom
Plesanton
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mercurynews--2020-01-24--Letter: Trump on trial for acting like US is his private firm

Trump on trial for acting like US is his private firm President Trump is a habitual liar , and often speaks or writes utter gibberish .
But he is not on trial for these actions .
President Trump has seen to it that America is now distrusted and even disliked by its historical allies .
But he is not on trial for these acts .
President Trump has attempted to substitute personal relationships for strategic logic , and been largely rebuffed by our contemporary foes .
But he is not on trial for that .
President Trump has shown persistent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has put the nation on a trajectory that will likely cause substantially increased pollution and climate disruption .
He is not on trial for these actions .
• Letter : Trapping the Bay Area in amber will destroy all we care about • Letter : Khan will bring to SJ District 4 work for Pelosi , Harris , Obama President Trump is on trial for having treated the United States of America as if it were his private business , and for failing to recognize that his duty is to the people of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Trump on trial for acting
like US is his private firm
President Trump is a habitual liar, and often speaks or writes utter gibberish. But he is not on trial for these actions.
President Trump has seen to it that America is now distrusted and even disliked by its historical allies. But he is not on trial for these acts.
President Trump has attempted to substitute personal relationships for strategic logic, and been largely rebuffed by our contemporary foes. But he is not on trial for that.
President Trump has shown persistent disdain for knowledge and expertise, and has put the nation on a trajectory that will likely cause substantially increased pollution and climate disruption. He is not on trial for these actions.
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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 President Trump is on trial for having treated the United States of America as if it were his private business, and for failing to recognize that his duty is to the people of the nation and to its laws.
Allen Carroll
San Jose
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Word Game: Jan. 24, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — BROWSING ( BROWSING : BROW-zing : Inspecting something in a leisurely and casual way .
@ @ @ @ @ or more words in BROWSING ?
The list will be published tomorrow .
To purchase @ @ @ @ @ visit WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 @ @ @ @ @ four or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition @ @ @ @ @ such as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 @ @ @ @ @ adding a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
@ @ @ @ @ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed @ @ @ @ @ and “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , @ @ @ @ @ words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — BROWSING (BROWSING: BROW-zing: Inspecting something in a leisurely and casual way.)
Average mark 30 words
Time limit 40 minutes
Can you find 39 or more words in BROWSING? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — TORPIDITY tidy tipi tiro titi topi torii torpid
tort trio trip tripod trod trot troy typo tyro riot ropy pity port potty prod
idiot dirt dirty ditto ditty dopy dory drip Drop
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


Bridge: Jan. 24, 2020

This week ’ s deals have treated “ those fickle finesses.
” Capable declarers hate to cast their fate to the 50/50 chance of winning a finesse .
They look for alternatives .
You ’ re declarer at today ’ s six spades , and West leads the king of hearts .
Say you win and take the A-K of trumps , and both defenders follow obligingly .
You can succeed if a finesse with either the queen of diamonds or the jack of clubs wins .
If both finesses win , you will make seven .
How do you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not directly .
First take the king and ace .
When the queen falls from West , you are safe .
You take the jack , ruff your last club in dummy and try a diamond to your queen for an overtrick .
If both defenders played low clubs , you would lead toward your jack next .
If East started with Q-10-9-8 , you could discard a diamond from dummy on the jack of clubs .
If West had Q-10-9-8 in clubs , you could ruff your fourth club in dummy and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hold : S K J 8 4 H 8 7 5 2 D 6 3 C A 5 2 .
Your partner opens one diamond .
The next player doubles .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Expert opinions would vary .
I would not consider bidding one heart since the opponent ’ s double suggests heart length and strength .
A 1NT response to describe the overall character of the hand is possible .
I might try one spade , which is lead-directing and preserves a chance to find a trump @ @ @ @ @ @

This week’s deals have treated “those fickle finesses.” Capable declarers hate to cast their fate to the 50/50 chance of winning a finesse. They look for alternatives.
You’re declarer at today’s six spades, and West leads the king of hearts. Say you win and take the A-K of trumps, and both defenders follow obligingly. You can succeed if a finesse with either the queen of diamonds or the jack of clubs wins. If both finesses win, you will make seven.
How do you proceed?
LAST CLUB
Finesse in clubs, but not directly. First take the king and ace. When the queen falls from West, you are safe. You take the jack, ruff your last club in dummy and try a diamond to your queen for an overtrick.
If both defenders played low clubs, you would lead toward your jack next. If East started with Q-10-9-8, you could discard a diamond from dummy on the jack of clubs.
If West had Q-10-9-8 in clubs, you could ruff your fourth club in dummy and hope the diamond finesse worked.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S K J 8 4 H 8 7 5 2 D 6 3 C A 5 2. Your partner opens one diamond. The next player doubles. What do you say?
ANSWER: Expert opinions would vary. I would not consider bidding one heart since the opponent’s double suggests heart length and strength. A 1NT response to describe the overall character of the hand is possible. I might try one spade, which is lead-directing and preserves a chance to find a trump fit in the ranking suit.
South dealer
Both sides vulnerable
NORTH
S K J 8 4
H 8 7 5 2
D 6 3
C A 5 2
WEST
S 9 5
H K Q J 10 6 3
D K 10 7
C Q 6
EAST
S 10 3
H 9 4
D J 9 8 5 2
C 10 9 8 7
SOUTH
S A Q 7 6 2
H A
D A Q 4
C K J 4 3
South West North East
1 S 2 H 2 S Pass
3 C Pass 4 S Pass
6 S All Pass
Opening lead — H K
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-01-24--Horoscopes Jan. 24, 2020: Mischa Barton, living in the past will not help you move forward.

Happy Birthday : Use intelligence and experience to help you avoid making the same mistake twice .
Living in the past will not help you move forward .
Be quick to assess situations so you don ’ t waste time on someone or something that keeps blocking you from happiness and personal gain .
It ’ s time to recognize your potential and to use your skills appropriately .
Your numbers are 8 , 13 , 21 , 24 , 33 , 38 , 43 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Participate in something that will give you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect from someone you are partnered with or plan to work alongside .
A trip or business meeting will take you in a different direction .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Keep your thoughts to yourself until you figure out what you are going to do next .
Don ’ t spend money you don ’ t have yet .
If you want to make a move or change , take a minimalist approach .
Emotional spending won ’ t solve problems .
2 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June @ @ @ @ @ @ @ figure out what you want .
Don ’ t let confusion and pressure lead to a mistake .
Fact-finding will encourage you to rethink your plans .
Use your intelligence to counter emotional uncertainty .
Don ’ t leave anything to chance .
5 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : A personal change will boost your morale and give you the confidence to take advantage of an unusual opportunity that comes your way .
Consider what ’ s involved , and put your ideas to work for you .
A relationship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Don ’ t get down ; get moving .
If you linger too long waiting to see what everyone else is going to do or trusting someone to take care of matters for you , nothing will get done to your specification .
Choose love over discord .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Let your creative imagination run wild .
It ’ s good to break away from your daily routine every once in a while .
Be unique and original @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone .
Time spent with someone you are into will be exhilarating .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Make plans to spend time with people you enjoy , and ideas you offer will turn into an unexpected opportunity .
Share your interests and knowledge .
A moneymaking plan will lead to financial rewards as well as satisfaction .
5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Before you decide , move forward or take a chance , and check every detail .
Don ’ t trust the information @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you love will help you clear your mind , ease your stress and recognize what ’ s possible .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Originality will help you attract attention .
Use your experience to help you turn an idea you have into something spectacular .
Discuss your plans with someone who inspires you .
An unexpected offering will take you by surprise .
Clear an old debt .
4 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Too much of anything will leave you confused .
When in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see what happens .
Personal growth will shine a light on new possibilities .
Take a different approach to an old idea in order to reap the rewards .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Contemplate what ’ s going on around you , and be satisfied being a friendly observer until you feel confident that making a move is truly in your best interest .
Let go of regrets , revenge and living in the past .
Forward motion will be liberating .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ available without pulling strings and making compromises .
Consider the pros and cons before you get involved in something that could be risky physically , financially or legally .
Look at every angle , and take the safest route .
Avoid excessive behavior .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are smart , understanding and strategic .
You are helpful and trendy .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Mischa Barton, 34; Tatyana Ali, 41; Ed Helms, 46; Neil Diamond, 79.
Happy Birthday: Use intelligence and experience to help you avoid making the same mistake twice. Living in the past will not help you move forward. Be quick to assess situations so you don’t waste time on someone or something that keeps blocking you from happiness and personal gain. It’s time to recognize your potential and to use your skills appropriately. Your numbers are 8, 13, 21, 24, 33, 38, 43.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Participate in something that will give you a better understanding of what you can expect from someone you are partnered with or plan to work alongside. A trip or business meeting will take you in a different direction. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Keep your thoughts to yourself until you figure out what you are going to do next. Don’t spend money you don’t have yet. If you want to make a move or change, take a minimalist approach. Emotional spending won’t solve problems. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Take a moment to figure out what you want. Don’t let confusion and pressure lead to a mistake. Fact-finding will encourage you to rethink your plans. Use your intelligence to counter emotional uncertainty. Don’t leave anything to chance. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): A personal change will boost your morale and give you the confidence to take advantage of an unusual opportunity that comes your way. Consider what’s involved, and put your ideas to work for you. A relationship will benefit from loving care. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t get down; get moving. If you linger too long waiting to see what everyone else is going to do or trusting someone to take care of matters for you, nothing will get done to your specification. Choose love over discord. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Let your creative imagination run wild. It’s good to break away from your daily routine every once in a while. Be unique and original if you want to stay ahead of everyone. Time spent with someone you are into will be exhilarating. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Make plans to spend time with people you enjoy, and ideas you offer will turn into an unexpected opportunity. Share your interests and knowledge. A moneymaking plan will lead to financial rewards as well as satisfaction. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Before you decide, move forward or take a chance, and check every detail. Don’t trust the information you receive from an outsider. Someone you love will help you clear your mind, ease your stress and recognize what’s possible. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Originality will help you attract attention. Use your experience to help you turn an idea you have into something spectacular. Discuss your plans with someone who inspires you. An unexpected offering will take you by surprise. Clear an old debt. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Too much of anything will leave you confused. When in doubt, sit tight and wait to see what happens. Personal growth will shine a light on new possibilities. Take a different approach to an old idea in order to reap the rewards. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Contemplate what’s going on around you, and be satisfied being a friendly observer until you feel confident that making a move is truly in your best interest. Let go of regrets, revenge and living in the past. Forward motion will be liberating. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Nothing will be readily available without pulling strings and making compromises. Consider the pros and cons before you get involved in something that could be risky physically, financially or legally. Look at every angle, and take the safest route. Avoid excessive behavior. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are smart, understanding and strategic. You are helpful and trendy.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-01-24--Ask Amy: My boyfriend is interfering with my Instagram

DEAR AMY : My boyfriend “ Brad ” and I have been dating for almost a year .
Brad and I have very different views about social media .
For me , Instagram is my “ scrapbook ” of memories — it ’ s my way of documenting my life .
By the six-month mark , Brad had become the most important thing in my life , and I wanted to share that with everyone !
However , Brad sees social media as superficial .
He doesn ’ t want to share our relationship with followers .
He also thinks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t matter — he says we should just send photos of ourselves to friends , or I should document our relationship in a private folder .
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Right • Ask Amy : Online bully is embarrassing our family • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hundreds of miles to have dinner with my boyfriend I understand his point of view .
I know that he does not want to “ hide ” our relationship .
I know he won ’ t post pictures of us , even though it hurts to see my best friends and their significant others ’ happy pictures of their adventures .
But , at this point , it ’ s also stopping me from posting my own photos because he is such a huge part of my life that posting photos without him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me .
After we reached an impasse , I decided that I should be able to post photos of us , even if he decides not to post any .
When I told him I wanted to post photos of us marking our anniversary , it opened up the argument all over again .
I get it .
It is his face , and I would be annoyed if a friend posted a picture of me without my permission .
But , at the same time , he has chosen to be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was my scrapbook long before we started dating .
And I want to document ( and yes , even show off sometimes — I ’ m human ! )
my life .
Is there a compromise here ?
DEAR ANONYMOUS : The compromise I suggest involves you respecting your boyfriend ’ s wishes not to have his photo posted on your public Instagram account .
If your guy doesn ’ t want to be Kanye to your Kim , then … more power to him .
Traditionally , a “ scrapbook ” was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , viewed only by the person who had made it , and by others only with permission .
Instagram is a wonderful photo flow of pictures , which can tell a curated story about a person ’ s life — available to anyone who wants to view it .
My own public Instagram account features many pictures of the rolling hills and flocks of sheep pasturing on my family ’ s farm , and no photos of family members .
Why ?
Because I respect their privacy .
You could very easily set @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could post photos documenting your relationship .
You could keep this second account private and only accept followers both you and your boyfriend know and approve of .
At the start , he said he wasn ’ t looking for a relationship , but that he wanted to keep seeing me .
I wanted more than that but instead of leaving , I stuck around .
I am from California , now studying abroad in Russia .
Before I left for Russia , he said he was having real feelings for me .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ three months .
He ’ s spending $ 1,000 to come visit me for a week , but I still feel like he isn ’ t as emotionally invested as I am , and he said he doesn ’ t know what he wants .
What should I do ?
DEAR WONDERING : Your guy is showing you how invested he is in seeing you .
Spending $ 1,000 for a short visit is nothing to sneeze at .
At this point in your relatively short relationship , you should focus on your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is , one day at a time .
You may believe that your boyfriend is delivering mixed messages , but the way I read this , his feelings for you are growing .
He sounds as if he has been honest with you .
Encourage his honesty and respond in kind .
DEAR AMY : You are running lots of questions from people regarding new family relationships being uncovered as a result of DNA testing .
I am in one of those families !
My siblings and I were approached by a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sure enough — we have a brother .
Yes , this has been challenging , but overall everyone has handled this well .
DEAR NEW FAMILY : Every family has their share of secrets .
I give you all so much credit for accepting and embracing reality .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or Facebook .

DEAR AMY: My boyfriend “Brad” and I have been dating for almost a year. Brad and I have very different views about social media.
For me, Instagram is my “scrapbook” of memories — it’s my way of documenting my life. By the six-month mark, Brad had become the most important thing in my life, and I wanted to share that with everyone!
However, Brad sees social media as superficial. He doesn’t want to share our relationship with followers. He also thinks I just want attention from people who don’t matter — he says we should just send photos of ourselves to friends, or I should document our relationship in a private folder.
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Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy I understand his point of view. I know that he does not want to “hide” our relationship. I know he won’t post pictures of us, even though it hurts to see my best friends and their significant others’ happy pictures of their adventures. But, at this point, it’s also stopping me from posting my own photos because he is such a huge part of my life that posting photos without him seems artificial. It seems unfair to me.
After we reached an impasse, I decided that I should be able to post photos of us, even if he decides not to post any.
When I told him I wanted to post photos of us marking our anniversary, it opened up the argument all over again.
I get it. It is his face, and I would be annoyed if a friend posted a picture of me without my permission. But, at the same time, he has chosen to be a part of my life and my Instagram was my scrapbook long before we started dating.
And I want to document (and yes, even show off sometimes — I’m human!) my life.
Is there a compromise here?
Anonymous
DEAR ANONYMOUS: The compromise I suggest involves you respecting your boyfriend’s wishes not to have his photo posted on your public Instagram account. If your guy doesn’t want to be Kanye to your Kim, then … more power to him.
Traditionally, a “scrapbook” was an actual book maintained by an individual, viewed only by the person who had made it, and by others only with permission. Instagram is a wonderful photo flow of pictures, which can tell a curated story about a person’s life — available to anyone who wants to view it. My own public Instagram account features many pictures of the rolling hills and flocks of sheep pasturing on my family’s farm, and no photos of family members. Why? Because I respect their privacy.
You could very easily set up a second Instagram account where you could post photos documenting your relationship. You could keep this second account private and only accept followers both you and your boyfriend know and approve of.
DEAR AMY: I’m a 19-year-old woman. I met a guy over the summer.
At the start, he said he wasn’t looking for a relationship, but that he wanted to keep seeing me. I wanted more than that but instead of leaving, I stuck around.
I am from California, now studying abroad in Russia.
Before I left for Russia, he said he was having real feelings for me. We’ve been together now for three months.
He’s spending $1,000 to come visit me for a week, but I still feel like he isn’t as emotionally invested as I am, and he said he doesn’t know what he wants.
What should I do?
Wondering Woman
DEAR WONDERING: Your guy is showing you how invested he is in seeing you. Spending $1,000 for a short visit is nothing to sneeze at.
At this point in your relatively short relationship, you should focus on your own feelings. Enjoy this relationship as it is, one day at a time.
You may believe that your boyfriend is delivering mixed messages, but the way I read this, his feelings for you are growing. He sounds as if he has been honest with you. Encourage his honesty and respond in kind.
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR AMY: You are running lots of questions from people regarding new family relationships being uncovered as a result of DNA testing.
I am in one of those families! My siblings and I were approached by a person claiming to be a half-sibling.
Sure enough — we have a brother. Yes, this has been challenging, but overall everyone has handled this well.
New Family
DEAR NEW FAMILY: Every family has their share of secrets. I give you all so much credit for accepting and embracing reality.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-01-24--Harriette Cole: I feel weird about my boyfriend’s rules

DEAR HARRIETTE : My boyfriend is overly protective of me .
He wants me to dress modestly and to avert my eyes when boys pay attention to me .
He says it is bad manners for a girl to wear dresses above the knee or to talk to other boys when you have a boyfriend .
I started off liking this guy , but now it feels weird .
This is my first time having a boyfriend , so I ’ m not sure how it should work , but this doesn ’ t feel right .
We go to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ always around .
I like the attention he gives me , but I feel uncomfortable about how he wants to control me .
I ’ m a little afraid to speak up , because he is strong-willed .
How can I be more assertive without losing him ?
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• Harriette Cole : I reminded them to get me a gift , and it was a lame one DEAR CONTROLLING BOYFRIEND : Your boyfriend is not exhibiting healthy behavior toward you .
What you have described are red flags .
I recommend that you end the relationship .
I know it ’ s exciting to have a boyfriend , but this boy does not accept you for who you are .
A good boyfriend will celebrate you and make you feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are afraid that he may retaliate , speak to your parents and to your guidance counselor at school .
It may help to have adults looking out for you as you separate from this young man .
You have to be strong to counter his manipulativeness .
You can do it .
Just keep telling yourself that you are worthy of being loved for who you are .
You do not need to change to meet a boy ’ s approval .
DEAR HARRIETTE : I believe that my parents are alcoholics .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and often they drink excessively .
I can always tell when they have had too much because they get loud and obnoxious .
I have spoken to my mom about this many times when she is sober .
She blows me off .
I hate that this is how they live .
It makes me feel really uncomfortable if I ’ m around them after about 8 p.m .
I don ’ t live with them anymore , but I am close to them and do visit often .
I ’ m beginning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my visits .
I hate being in the middle of their drunkenness .
How can I get them to stop ?
I feel like I am losing my parents .
DEAR DRUNK PARENTS : During a sober moment , ask your parents to sit down and talk to you .
Be direct when you express your concern about their excessive drinking .
Tell them how much you love them and how difficult it is for you to be around them when they are drunk .
Beg them to curb their drinking .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them you will not visit them when they are drunk because it is too hard for you to be a part of that .
Chances are , they will be highly offended and defensive .
Hold your ground .
Give examples of their behavior if you need to .
Being specific will limit the wiggle room they have to deflect .
Ultimately , though , you need to take care of yourself .
You can not control their behavior .
You can choose to visit them earlier in the day .
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can experience life without you in it .
You should also go to Al-Anon , a 12-step program for people who have alcoholics in their lives and who are struggling with how to manage .
Visit al-anon.org to find a meeting near you .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams .
You can send questions to askharriette @ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: My boyfriend is overly protective of me. He wants me to dress modestly and to avert my eyes when boys pay attention to me. He says it is bad manners for a girl to wear dresses above the knee or to talk to other boys when you have a boyfriend.
I started off liking this guy, but now it feels weird.
This is my first time having a boyfriend, so I’m not sure how it should work, but this doesn’t feel right. We go to the same school, so he is always around. I like the attention he gives me, but I feel uncomfortable about how he wants to control me.
I’m a little afraid to speak up, because he is strong-willed. How can I be more assertive without losing him?
Controlling Boyfriend
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Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend Advice | Harriette Cole: I’ve worked hard, and my poor siblings resent my success DEAR CONTROLLING BOYFRIEND: Your boyfriend is not exhibiting healthy behavior toward you. What you have described are red flags. I recommend that you end the relationship.
I know it’s exciting to have a boyfriend, but this boy does not accept you for who you are. A good boyfriend will celebrate you and make you feel loved, not controlled.
If you are afraid that he may retaliate, speak to your parents and to your guidance counselor at school. It may help to have adults looking out for you as you separate from this young man. You have to be strong to counter his manipulativeness. You can do it. Just keep telling yourself that you are worthy of being loved for who you are. You do not need to change to meet a boy’s approval.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I believe that my parents are alcoholics. They drink just about every night, and often they drink excessively. I can always tell when they have had too much because they get loud and obnoxious. I have spoken to my mom about this many times when she is sober. She blows me off.
I hate that this is how they live. It makes me feel really uncomfortable if I’m around them after about 8 p.m. I don’t live with them anymore, but I am close to them and do visit often. I’m beginning to think I should cut back on my visits.
I hate being in the middle of their drunkenness. How can I get them to stop? I feel like I am losing my parents.
Drunk Parents
DEAR DRUNK PARENTS: During a sober moment, ask your parents to sit down and talk to you. Be direct when you express your concern about their excessive drinking. Tell them how much you love them and how difficult it is for you to be around them when they are drunk. Beg them to curb their drinking.
But also put your foot down. Tell them you will not visit them when they are drunk because it is too hard for you to be a part of that. Chances are, they will be highly offended and defensive. Hold your ground. Give examples of their behavior if you need to. Being specific will limit the wiggle room they have to deflect.
Ultimately, though, you need to take care of yourself. You cannot control their behavior. You can choose to visit them earlier in the day. You can stay away for a bit so they can experience life without you in it. You should also go to Al-Anon, a 12-step program for people who have alcoholics in their lives and who are struggling with how to manage. Visit al-anon.org to find a meeting near you.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-01-24--Miss Manners: These strangers are offended that I won’t tell all

DEAR MISS MANNERS : Over the years , I have been asked to give advice on various people ’ s paths through life , based on my own .
There is no conversation I am less inclined to have , since I have little available time , am repelled by the idea of discussing my private affairs with a complete stranger , and consider that I am in no position to advise anyone .
Yet such an interview has been proposed by more than one young person , or the young person ’ s relative , as if there were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to it .
When I say that I am sorry but I can not , they appear surprised and offended .
• Miss Manners : These two types of customers demand special treatment from me • Miss Manners : My personal time is precious , and these old friends don ’ t make the cut • Miss Manners : They bellow ‘ Excuse you !
’ and I find it so rude • Miss Manners : I yell rude things at strangers .
Is that bad ?
Can Miss Manners suggest a more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which is not meant to be ( but that I consider to be ) offensively intrusive and an unwarranted imposition on my time ?
GENTLE READER : Intrusive ?
Is it possible that there are people left on this self-publicizing Earth who do not want to regale unsuspecting audiences with all the minutiae of their lives ?
Miss Manners is torn between admiration and admonition — the latter for the fact that you do not find it flattering to want to be emulated .
However , she will help you out by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ promise to utter it kindly : “ I am flattered , but I am afraid that my life ’ s path , in all of its lengthy details , would bore you .
If you have a specific question about my field , I would be happy to answer it.
” Then , at the very least , your admirers will have to go away for a while and do some research before attempting to bother you again .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : I know people are being nice when they ask if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I didn ’ t .
My husband is dead , my only sibling is dead , my youngest child is dead and my other child is not having anything to do with me because I sold my home and moved to a smaller one .
And I have a mother in a nursing home with dementia , who picked Christmas day to kick me hard in the shin three times when I was trying to help her .
When people ask about my Christmas , I just say , “ It was OK. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really felt about that day ?
GENTLE READER : Only if your intention is to ruin theirs .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : As a server , I happily extend hospitality to the entire spectrum of society , using “ sir , ” “ ma ’ am , ” “ ladies , ” etc .
when addressing guests .
On occasion , I ’ m perplexed when ladies dressed in matching , masculine clothes dine at a table I ’ m serving .
I feel awkward using either “ ma ’ am ” and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certain which they would prefer , and certainly do not want to offend .
GENTLE READER : Avoid giving titles entirely .
Use “ everyone ” and “ anyone ” wherever possible , as in “ Does everyone have everything they need ?
” or “ Does anyone need anything ?
” When in doubt — or when trying to single someone out — Miss Manners highly recommends eye contact .
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website , www.missmanners.com ; to her email , dearmissmanners @ gmail.com ; or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: Over the years, I have been asked to give advice on various people’s paths through life, based on my own.
There is no conversation I am less inclined to have, since I have little available time, am repelled by the idea of discussing my private affairs with a complete stranger, and consider that I am in no position to advise anyone.
Yet such an interview has been proposed by more than one young person, or the young person’s relative, as if there were a generally accepted social obligation to accede to it. When I say that I am sorry but I cannot, they appear surprised and offended.
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GENTLE READER: Intrusive? Is it possible that there are people left on this self-publicizing Earth who do not want to regale unsuspecting audiences with all the minutiae of their lives? Miss Manners is torn between admiration and admonition — the latter for the fact that you do not find it flattering to want to be emulated.
However, she will help you out by arming you with this sentence if you promise to utter it kindly: “I am flattered, but I am afraid that my life’s path, in all of its lengthy details, would bore you. If you have a specific question about my field, I would be happy to answer it.” Then, at the very least, your admirers will have to go away for a while and do some research before attempting to bother you again.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: I know people are being nice when they ask if I had a nice Christmas, but I didn’t.
My husband is dead, my only sibling is dead, my youngest child is dead and my other child is not having anything to do with me because I sold my home and moved to a smaller one. And I have a mother in a nursing home with dementia, who picked Christmas day to kick me hard in the shin three times when I was trying to help her.
When people ask about my Christmas, I just say, “It was OK.” Should I tell them how I really felt about that day?
GENTLE READER: Only if your intention is to ruin theirs.
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DEAR MISS MANNERS: As a server, I happily extend hospitality to the entire spectrum of society, using “sir,” “ma’am,” “ladies,” etc. when addressing guests.
On occasion, I’m perplexed when ladies dressed in matching, masculine clothes dine at a table I’m serving. I feel awkward using either “ma’am” and “sir.” I’m not certain which they would prefer, and certainly do not want to offend.
GENTLE READER: Avoid giving titles entirely. Use “everyone” and “anyone” wherever possible, as in “Does everyone have everything they need?” or “Does anyone need anything?” When in doubt — or when trying to single someone out — Miss Manners highly recommends eye contact.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-01-24--Dear Abby: I have a plan for my cheating husband’s funeral

DEAR ABBY : I have been married for 37 years .
During that time , my husband has cheated on me and fathered several children .
As we have grown older , I have begun to think about final arrangements .
If he dies , would I be wrong for not giving him a funeral or memorial service or having one for just his sisters and brothers ?
I feel it would be disrespectful to me if the children that resulted from his affairs , and possibly their mothers , were there .
• Dear Abby : I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very nice gift • Dear Abby : Nobody talks to me , and I suspect it ’ s because of my ex-wife ’ s lies • Dear Abby : I am mortified by the newlyweds ’ behavior • Dear Abby : This outsider scoffs at our family fun time Although my daughters love their father , I believe they would support my decisions .
DEAR ANGRY WIFE : You are under no obligation to have a funeral or memorial for your cheating husband .
If his sisters , brothers , mistresses and their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they can assume the responsibility .
If you still feel the way you do today after his demise , you , your daughters and some close friends of yours can go out for a nice lunch or dinner to acknowledge the occasion .
P.S .
Devil ’ s food cake for dessert would be appropriate .
DEAR ABBY : My parents divorced 10 years ago , when I was a freshman in college .
My mom didn ’ t want the divorce .
My dad initiated it , but they fought constantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ afterward , Dad started a relationship with a co-worker , his current wife , whom my mom believes was the reason he left her .
I am being married at the end of the year , and I know Mom won ’ t be able to keep her emotions in check if Dad ’ s wife attends .
My parents can keep it amicable if it ’ s just them , but I can ’ t see a way to exclude Dad ’ s wife without upsetting him .
What ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upset or my dad getting upset ?
DEAR WANTS : Talk to your mother .
Explain that you want your wedding to be inclusive , and you don ’ t want this special day to be spoiled .
If she feels she won ’ t be able to control her anger , she shouldn ’ t attend .
To invite your father and not his wife will be regarded as an insult , and he would likely refuse to be a part of it .
DEAR ABBY : I married a man 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I had a daughter who was 6 .
My new husband welcomed her , and she considers him to be her father .
His parents , however , never considered her as their own .
They took several family trips with all their grandkids but excluded my daughter .
Fast-forward to today : My daughter lives in another state .
These nieces and nephews all have kids , as does my daughter .
Every birthday and Christmas , I buy said nieces ’ and nephews ’ kids presents , but I assume because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , no one buys her kids anything .
Is it wrong that this upsets me ?
Should I continue buying gifts for all those kids when my daughter ’ s kids are being left out ?
DEAR LEFT OUT : You are not wrong .
Considering the circumstances , you have been more than generous .
Because your nieces and nephews are adults now , send them cards for the holidays .
The same is true for their children .
And if you are asked why , tell them the truth — that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and your daughter was seriously shortchanged .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: I have been married for 37 years. During that time, my husband has cheated on me and fathered several children.
As we have grown older, I have begun to think about final arrangements. If he dies, would I be wrong for not giving him a funeral or memorial service or having one for just his sisters and brothers? I feel it would be disrespectful to me if the children that resulted from his affairs, and possibly their mothers, were there.
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ANGRY WIFE IN GEORGIA
DEAR ANGRY WIFE: You are under no obligation to have a funeral or memorial for your cheating husband. If his sisters, brothers, mistresses and their children would like to give him one, they can assume the responsibility. If you still feel the way you do today after his demise, you, your daughters and some close friends of yours can go out for a nice lunch or dinner to acknowledge the occasion.
P.S. Devil’s food cake for dessert would be appropriate.
DEAR ABBY: My parents divorced 10 years ago, when I was a freshman in college. My mom didn’t want the divorce. My dad initiated it, but they fought constantly when they were together. Not long afterward, Dad started a relationship with a co-worker, his current wife, whom my mom believes was the reason he left her.
I am being married at the end of the year, and I know Mom won’t be able to keep her emotions in check if Dad’s wife attends. My parents can keep it amicable if it’s just them, but I can’t see a way to exclude Dad’s wife without upsetting him.
What’s the less painful option — my mom getting upset or my dad getting upset?
WANTS FAMILY HARMONY
DEAR WANTS: Talk to your mother. Explain that you want your wedding to be inclusive, and you don’t want this special day to be spoiled. If she feels she won’t be able to control her anger, she shouldn’t attend.
To invite your father and not his wife will be regarded as an insult, and he would likely refuse to be a part of it.
DEAR ABBY: I married a man 24 years ago. At the time, I had a daughter who was 6. My new husband welcomed her, and she considers him to be her father. His parents, however, never considered her as their own. They took several family trips with all their grandkids but excluded my daughter.
Fast-forward to today: My daughter lives in another state. These nieces and nephews all have kids, as does my daughter. Every birthday and Christmas, I buy said nieces’ and nephews’ kids presents, but I assume because my daughter lives in a different state, no one buys her kids anything.
Is it wrong that this upsets me? Should I continue buying gifts for all those kids when my daughter’s kids are being left out?
LEFT OUT IN ILLINOIS
DEAR LEFT OUT: You are not wrong. Considering the circumstances, you have been more than generous. Because your nieces and nephews are adults now, send them cards for the holidays. The same is true for their children.
And if you are asked why, tell them the truth — that gift-giving is supposed to be an exchange, and your daughter was seriously shortchanged.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.


mercurynews--2020-01-24--High school basketball: Washington stuns Moreau, shares MVAL lead

HAYWARD — Move over , Moreau Catholic .
Step aside , James Logan .
There is a new leader in the Mission Valley Athletic League boys basketball race .
Washington ended the first half of the league schedule Thursday night with a 58-56 victory on the road over Moreau as Stevie Murata ’ s 3-pointer with about 10 seconds left provided the decisive points .
The Fremont school is 14-5 overall and 6-1 in the league .
The outcome extended Washington ’ s winning streak to four games , a run that began with a 64-63 win at defending league @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Jan. 14 .
In its win over Moreau , Washington got 18 points from Austin Balentine , 12 from Aaron John and 10 from Murata .
“ We just played Husky basketball and did what we ’ ve been doing all year long , ” Washington coach Michael Tripp said .
“ We really didn ’ t change anything .
We have a really good team .
The key for us is everybody plays together , and we ’ re pretty tight as a group .
“ To come out here tonight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how good we can be .
It was a great high school game .
Both teams played very well.
” Washington had lost 14 consecutive games to Moreau , which last season won the North Coast Section Division II championship .
The win at Logan snapped Washington ’ s 13-game skid against the Colts .
“ To win those two on the road , I think our program is on the up , ” Tripp added .
“ Hats off to my coaching staff .
They detail every little thing that we have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s just one of those years where everything ’ s kind of fallen into place .
And we ’ re all on the same page , coaches and players .
It ’ s just amazing.
” The Huskies will play the league ’ s perennial powers at home in the second half of the schedule , with Logan visiting Feb. 6 and Moreau coming to Washington for Senior Night on Feb. 14 .
Newark Memorial , the only team to beat Washington in the first half of league play , plays the Huskies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Newark Memorial are a game back in the standings .
“ We ’ ve had some ups and downs over the years , ” Tripp said .
“ But this year is just one of those years .
The upside of it , too , is we have only two seniors .
I start three juniors and two seniors .
The future looks really good.
” Salesian , ranked No .
1 in the Bay Area Preps HQ Top 25 , outscored Albany by 14 in the third quarter on its way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ League Rock Division play .
Salesian plays Chaminade of West Hills on Saturday night in the Crush in the Valley showcase at Solano College .

HAYWARD — Move over, Moreau Catholic. Step aside, James Logan. There is a new leader in the Mission Valley Athletic League boys basketball race.
Washington ended the first half of the league schedule Thursday night with a 58-56 victory on the road over Moreau as Stevie Murata’s 3-pointer with about 10 seconds left provided the decisive points.
The Fremont school is 14-5 overall and 6-1 in the league.
Moreau fell to 11-8, 6-1.
The outcome extended Washington’s winning streak to four games, a run that began with a 64-63 win at defending league and Northern California Division I champion Logan on Jan. 14.
In its win over Moreau, Washington got 18 points from Austin Balentine, 12 from Aaron John and 10 from Murata.
DJ Johnson (17 points), Trey Knight (15) and Donovan Tynes (13) led Moreau.
“We just played Husky basketball and did what we’ve been doing all year long,” Washington coach Michael Tripp said. “We really didn’t change anything. We have a really good team. The key for us is everybody plays together, and we’re pretty tight as a group.
“To come out here tonight, they were determined. They know how good we can be. It was a great high school game. Both teams played very well.”
Washington had lost 14 consecutive games to Moreau, which last season won the North Coast Section Division II championship.
The win at Logan snapped Washington’s 13-game skid against the Colts.
“To win those two on the road, I think our program is on the up,” Tripp added. “Hats off to my coaching staff. They detail every little thing that we have to be prepared for. It’s just one of those years where everything’s kind of fallen into place. And we’re all on the same page, coaches and players. It’s just amazing.”
The Huskies will play the league’s perennial powers at home in the second half of the schedule, with Logan visiting Feb. 6 and Moreau coming to Washington for Senior Night on Feb. 14.
Newark Memorial, the only team to beat Washington in the first half of league play, plays the Huskies in Fremont on Feb. 4.
Washington with the huge win over Moreau 58-56. @coachnatesmith pic.twitter.com/kDI4rGtnil — Brandon (@BrandonGreen32) January 24, 2020
Logan and Newark Memorial are a game back in the standings.
“We’ve had some ups and downs over the years,” Tripp said. “But this year is just one of those years. The upside of it, too, is we have only two seniors. I start three juniors and two seniors. The future looks really good.”
Elsewhere
Salesian, ranked No. 1 in the Bay Area Preps HQ Top 25, outscored Albany by 14 in the third quarter on its way to a 57-36 win in Tri-County Athletic League Rock Division play. Salesian plays Chaminade of West Hills on Saturday night in the Crush in the Valley showcase at Solano College.


mercurynews--2020-01-25--Santa Clara insists it didn’t violate councilwoman’s medical privacy

Santa Clara city officials Friday disputed a councilwoman ’ s assertion that they violated her medical privacy rights in disclosing reasons for her resignation .
But that has hardly ended the flap over the city ’ s announcement Thursday of Councilwoman Patricia Mahan ’ s pending resignation , as she disputed the version of events the city offered Friday and vowed to continue pressing the issue of what she said was a violation of federal and state medical privacy law .
“ I ’ m going to take it as far as it goes , ” Mahan said , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , nobody apologized , nobody admitted what they did was wrong .
They ’ re all trying to cover it up .
This is having an adverse affect my recovery.
” It all started Thursday when the city announced in a news release that Mahan will resign her seat Feb. 1 due to “ serious medical issues.
” She told this news organization from a hospital bed that the news release blindsided her and that the city “ had no right to release my private health information.
” That prompted the city to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City Attorney Brian Doyle said he is “ confident that no one in the City has violated HIPPA ( Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ) or any laws regarding confidentiality.
” Doyle went on to explain that when a council member resigns , “ that is a public act of a public official so we had to report it to the council.
” “ Eventually whatever the communication is that says , ‘ I am hereby resigning ’ — that is communicated to council so they can do their duty under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Doyle continued .
The council must then act within 30 days to either appoint a new member to the council seat , hold a special election or leave the seat vacant until the next regular election in November , he said .
Doyle said Mahan ’ s “ official resignation ” notice came in a Jan. 22 email which was transmitted to the City council as part of the online agenda packet for the Jan. 28 , 2020 meeting .
The city ’ s online agenda links to a one-paragraph email Mahan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Azevedo in the city ’ s human resources department .
He said “ nothing in Councilmember Mahan ’ s official resignation statement mentions confidentiality.
” “ Please accept this email as my resignation and retirement from the Santa Clara City Council due to ver ( sic ) serious medical issues , ” Mahan ’ s email says , adding more details about her condition and upcoming treatments and concluding : “ Please accept my resignation and retirement effective February 1 , 2020.
” Mahan has publicly discussed her past battles with cancer , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her own terms .
She quoted state law saying that any release of her medical information would require her signed consent , which she said she did not give the city this week .
Doyle said that on Jan. 23 , City Manager Deanna Santana “ offered Councilmember Mahan the opportunity to resubmit her letter and she declined.
” He said that at 3:04 a.m. Friday , Mahan submitted an email to the city but the city has not said what it contained and a link to the email did not work .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ city ’ s human resources department wasn ’ t intended as her official resignation letter and was sent only to start the process of drawing her CalPERS retirement .
“ It was to HR only , ” Mahan said .
“ In my email I felt there was some responsibility to explain .
The city has an obligation to redact any private health information .
”

Santa Clara city officials Friday disputed a councilwoman’s assertion that they violated her medical privacy rights in disclosing reasons for her resignation.
But that has hardly ended the flap over the city’s announcement Thursday of Councilwoman Patricia Mahan’s pending resignation, as she disputed the version of events the city offered Friday and vowed to continue pressing the issue of what she said was a violation of federal and state medical privacy law.
“I’m going to take it as far as it goes,” Mahan said, “because nobody bothered to communicate with me, nobody apologized, nobody admitted what they did was wrong. They’re all trying to cover it up. This is having an adverse affect my recovery.”
It all started Thursday when the city announced in a news release that Mahan will resign her seat Feb. 1 due to “serious medical issues.” She told this news organization from a hospital bed that the news release blindsided her and that the city “had no right to release my private health information.”
That prompted the city to issue another news release Friday in which City Attorney Brian Doyle said he is “confident that no one in the City has violated HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) or any laws regarding confidentiality.”
Doyle went on to explain that when a council member resigns, “that is a public act of a public official so we had to report it to the council.”
“Eventually whatever the communication is that says, ‘I am hereby resigning’ — that is communicated to council so they can do their duty under the charter to declare the seat vacant,” Doyle continued. The council must then act within 30 days to either appoint a new member to the council seat, hold a special election or leave the seat vacant until the next regular election in November, he said.
Doyle said Mahan’s “official resignation” notice came in a Jan. 22 email which was transmitted to the City council as part of the online agenda packet for the Jan. 28, 2020 meeting. The city’s online agenda links to a one-paragraph email Mahan sent at 1:26 p.m. Wednesday to Aracely Azevedo in the city’s human resources department. He said “nothing in Councilmember Mahan’s official resignation statement mentions confidentiality.”
“Please accept this email as my resignation and retirement from the Santa Clara City Council due to ver (sic) serious medical issues,” Mahan’s email says, adding more details about her condition and upcoming treatments and concluding: “Please accept my resignation and retirement effective February 1, 2020.”
Mahan has publicly discussed her past battles with cancer, but said she has done so on her own terms. She quoted state law saying that any release of her medical information would require her signed consent, which she said she did not give the city this week.
Doyle said that on Jan. 23, City Manager Deanna Santana “offered Councilmember Mahan the opportunity to resubmit her letter and she declined.” He said that at 3:04 a.m. Friday, Mahan submitted an email to the mayor, city council and Santana saying that “under no circumstances should my letter to HR be put in the agenda packet because it contains private medical information.” It included a formal one-sentence resignation letter to the council with no mention of her health status.
Mahan said her Wednesday note to the city’s human resources department wasn’t intended as her official resignation letter and was sent only to start the process of drawing her CalPERS retirement.
“It was to HR only,” Mahan said. “In my email I felt there was some responsibility to explain. The city has an obligation to redact any private health information.”