mercurynews--2020-05-13--Covid-19 isn’t just a respiratory disease. It hits the whole body

The patient had been relatively fine for the first 10 days he was down with Covid-19 .
Just 38 , he didn ’ t fit the description of people at high risk of complications from the new coronavirus .
“ He had mild pulmonary symptoms that he was just sitting at home with , ” said Dr. Sean Wengerter , a vascular surgeon in Pomona , New York .
“ He had been diagnosed at an urgent care clinic and it was going fine at home .
He just had a little cough.
” Until one of Covid-19 ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he just woke up with both his legs numb and cold and so weak he couldn ’ t walk , ” said Wengerter , who is division chief of vascular surgery at Westchester Medical Center Health ’ s Good Samaritan Hospital .
This relatively young man had an aortic occlusion — a big blood clot in the body ’ s main artery , right above where it splits into two parts to run into each leg .
Blood was not getting into the iliac arteries and his legs were being starved .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can kill between 20 % and 50 % of patients , Wengerter said .
“ It just doesn ’ t usually happen in a 38-year-old , ” he told CNN .
Quick diagnosis and a surgical procedure to slice open the arteries and scoop out the clot using a catheter saved the patient .
“ We had two surgeons working simultaneously on him , ” Wengerter said .
Doctors treating coronavirus patients are seeing a range of odd and frightening syndromes , including blood clots of all sizes throughout the body , kidney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ One thing that is both curious and evolving and frustrating is that this disease is manifesting itself in so many different ways , ” said Dr. Scott Brakenridge , an assistant professor on the acute care surgery team at the University of Florida College of Medicine .
It can also cause multi-system organ failure “ In some cases it ’ s having severe effects on the patient ’ s ability to breathe , and in others it seems to be associated with development of multi-system organ failure — when all your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s associated with immune effects in children.
” While the new coronavirus is designated as a respiratory virus , it ’ s clear that it is affecting some people throughout their bodies .
The most obvious symptoms of infection are classic respiratory symptoms : fever , pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome .
But the virus also seems to attack some organs directly .
One of the most troubling is its assault on the lining of the blood vessels , which in turn causes unnatural blood clotting .
“ It seems like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a local inflammatory response that ’ s leading to some of these thrombotic events , ” Wengerter said .
“ This is happening because of the direct action of the virus on the arteries themselves.
” Other teams of doctors have reported unusual strokes in younger patients , as well as pulmonary embolisms , the medical name for blood clots in the lungs .
Pathologists are finding tiny blood clots in the smallest vessels , as well , said Dr. Oren Friedman , who has been taking care of Covid-19 patients in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Los Angeles .
“ There ’ s no debate — the virus seems to affect thrombosis and seems to directly affect your blood vessels , ” Friedman told CNN .
And that means it affects the whole body .
“ Obviously , every single organ in your body is fed by blood vessels , so if the virus affects your blood vessels , then you can have organ damage , ” he said .
“ It is a very confusing picture .
It ’ s going to take time to understand , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ children ’ s immune systems to overreact One of the most frightening syndromes that might be linked with Covid-19 is “ pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome.
” New York City reports 52 cases , Mayor Bill de Blasio said Tuesday , and the New York State Department of Health says it is investigating 100 cases .
It is characterized by persistent fever , inflammation , poor function in one or more organs , and other symptoms that resemble shock , a panel of pediatricians known as the International PICU-COVID-19 Collaboration says .
“ In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and some have features of Kawasaki disease , whereas others may present with signs of cytokine storm .
In some geographic areas , there has been an uptick in Kawasaki disease cases in children who don ’ t have shock , ” Boston Children ’ s Hospital rheumatologist Dr. Mary Beth Son said .
Kawasaki disease involves inflammation in the walls of medium-sized arteries and can damage the heart .
It may be caused by an immune system response known as a cytokine storm , doctors say .
“ Your immune system is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these are inflammatory diseases , this overreaction can cause a Kawasaki-like disease , ” Dr. Glenn Budnick , a pediatrician in Pomona , New Jersey , said on CNN Newsroom Saturday .
“ It is even possible that the antibodies that children are making to SARS-CoV2 are creating an immune reaction in the body .
Nobody knows , ” said Dr. Jane Newburger , a cardiologist on the Boston Children ’ s panel and an expert on Kawasaki disease .
Cytokine storm may also cause some of the lung damage and unusual blood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ There is other evidence that the virus really doesn ’ t generate a strong immune response and actually it is suppressing the immune system , ” Brakenridge said .
That would allow the virus to more directly attack organs .
A study published in the journal Nature Medicine on Tuesday supported both theories .
Dr. Zheng Zhang and colleagues at Shenzhen Third People ’ s Hospital in Shenzhen , China analyzed samples of immune cells taken from the lungs of nine coronavirus patients and found abnormally high levels of immune @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as immune signaling chemicals called cytokines and chemokines in the sicker patients .
Sicker patients also had high levels of proliferating T-cells , another type of immune cell .
But the patients with the most severe symptoms had lower numbers of CD8 T-cells , which directly kill virus-infected cells .
Doctors say they are finding that various treatments can help control symptoms .
Blood thinners can help control the unusual blood clotting , while immune blockers may help control the cytokine storm .
It can cause ‘ Covid toes ’ • Despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ millions to increase jail staffing • San Jose to finally open trailers for homeless next to Happy Hollow Park • Fremont Tesla factory remains open , as Elon Musk continues his standoff over shelter-in-place orders One last symptom that is puzzling — but less troubling — is known as “ Covid toes.
” Patients are reporting red or purple swelling of their toes .
It ’ s possible the tiny blood clots associated with Covid-19 are causing it , doctors said .
“ One pattern of COVID toes that people are reporting is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s possible that this is a skin reaction or caused by a small clog or micro clots in the blood vessels found in the toes , ” Cleveland Clinic pulmonologist Dr. Humberto Choi said on the clinic ’ s website .
It ’ s not usually associated with any serious symptoms , Choi said .

The patient had been relatively fine for the first 10 days he was down with Covid-19.
Just 38, he didn’t fit the description of people at high risk of complications from the new coronavirus.
“He had mild pulmonary symptoms that he was just sitting at home with,” said Dr. Sean Wengerter, a vascular surgeon in Pomona, New York. “He had been diagnosed at an urgent care clinic and it was going fine at home. He just had a little cough.”
Until one of Covid-19’s surprising effects kicked in.
“Then he just woke up with both his legs numb and cold and so weak he couldn’t walk,” said Wengerter, who is division chief of vascular surgery at Westchester Medical Center Health’s Good Samaritan Hospital.
Coronavirus can cause blood clots
This relatively young man had an aortic occlusion — a big blood clot in the body’s main artery, right above where it splits into two parts to run into each leg. Blood was not getting into the iliac arteries and his legs were being starved.
It’s an extremely dangerous development that can kill between 20% and 50% of patients, Wengerter said. “It just doesn’t usually happen in a 38-year-old,” he told CNN.
Quick diagnosis and a surgical procedure to slice open the arteries and scoop out the clot using a catheter saved the patient. “We had two surgeons working simultaneously on him,” Wengerter said.
Doctors treating coronavirus patients are seeing a range of odd and frightening syndromes, including blood clots of all sizes throughout the body, kidney failure, heart inflammation and immune complications.
“One thing that is both curious and evolving and frustrating is that this disease is manifesting itself in so many different ways,” said Dr. Scott Brakenridge, an assistant professor on the acute care surgery team at the University of Florida College of Medicine.
It can also cause multi-system organ failure
“In some cases it’s having severe effects on the patient’s ability to breathe, and in others it seems to be associated with development of multi-system organ failure — when all your organs shut down. And now it’s associated with immune effects in children.”
While the new coronavirus is designated as a respiratory virus, it’s clear that it is affecting some people throughout their bodies. The most obvious symptoms of infection are classic respiratory symptoms: fever, pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
But the virus also seems to attack some organs directly. One of the most troubling is its assault on the lining of the blood vessels, which in turn causes unnatural blood clotting.
“It seems like Covid, the virus, is creating a local inflammatory response that’s leading to some of these thrombotic events,” Wengerter said. “This is happening because of the direct action of the virus on the arteries themselves.”
Other teams of doctors have reported unusual strokes in younger patients, as well as pulmonary embolisms, the medical name for blood clots in the lungs.
Pathologists are finding tiny blood clots in the smallest vessels, as well, said Dr. Oren Friedman, who has been taking care of Covid-19 patients in the intensive care unit at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
“There’s no debate — the virus seems to affect thrombosis and seems to directly affect your blood vessels,” Friedman told CNN. And that means it affects the whole body.
“Obviously, every single organ in your body is fed by blood vessels, so if the virus affects your blood vessels, then you can have organ damage,” he said.
“It is a very confusing picture. It’s going to take time to understand,” Brakenridge said.
It might cause children’s immune systems to overreact
One of the most frightening syndromes that might be linked with Covid-19 is “pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome.” New York City reports 52 cases, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Tuesday, and the New York State Department of Health says it is investigating 100 cases.
It is characterized by persistent fever, inflammation, poor function in one or more organs, and other symptoms that resemble shock, a panel of pediatricians known as the International PICU-COVID-19 Collaboration says.
“In some cases, children present with shock and some have features of Kawasaki disease, whereas others may present with signs of cytokine storm. In some geographic areas, there has been an uptick in Kawasaki disease cases in children who don’t have shock,” Boston Children’s Hospital rheumatologist Dr. Mary Beth Son said. Kawasaki disease involves inflammation in the walls of medium-sized arteries and can damage the heart.
It may be caused by an immune system response known as a cytokine storm, doctors say.
“Your immune system is overreacting to the virus, and because these are inflammatory diseases, this overreaction can cause a Kawasaki-like disease,” Dr. Glenn Budnick, a pediatrician in Pomona, New Jersey, said on CNN Newsroom Saturday.
“It is even possible that the antibodies that children are making to SARS-CoV2 are creating an immune reaction in the body. Nobody knows,” said Dr. Jane Newburger, a cardiologist on the Boston Children’s panel and an expert on Kawasaki disease.
Cytokine storm may also cause some of the lung damage and unusual blood clotting seen in adult patients, doctors said.
“There is other evidence that the virus really doesn’t generate a strong immune response and actually it is suppressing the immune system,” Brakenridge said. That would allow the virus to more directly attack organs.
A study published in the journal Nature Medicine on Tuesday supported both theories.
Dr. Zheng Zhang and colleagues at Shenzhen Third People’s Hospital in Shenzhen, China analyzed samples of immune cells taken from the lungs of nine coronavirus patients and found abnormally high levels of immune cells called macrophages and neutrophils, as well as immune signaling chemicals called cytokines and chemokines in the sicker patients. Sicker patients also had high levels of proliferating T-cells, another type of immune cell.
But the patients with the most severe symptoms had lower numbers of CD8 T-cells, which directly kill virus-infected cells.
Doctors say they are finding that various treatments can help control symptoms. Blood thinners can help control the unusual blood clotting, while immune blockers may help control the cytokine storm.
It can cause ‘Covid toes’
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Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge One last symptom that is puzzling — but less troubling — is known as “Covid toes.” Patients are reporting red or purple swelling of their toes.
It’s possible the tiny blood clots associated with Covid-19 are causing it, doctors said.
“One pattern of COVID toes that people are reporting is red lesions typically on the soles. It’s possible that this is a skin reaction or caused by a small clog or micro clots in the blood vessels found in the toes,” Cleveland Clinic pulmonologist Dr. Humberto Choi said on the clinic’s website.
It’s not usually associated with any serious symptoms, Choi said.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2020 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.


mercurynews--2020-05-13--How dining out will look when you can eat in California restaurants again

With devastating revenue losses mounting since the mid-March dining-in bans to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus , Gov .
Gavin Newsom provided re-opening guidelines for restaurants on Tuesday , May 12 .
The bad news ?
No date has been set for Southern California restaurants to reopen .
The good news ?
Newsom provided a 12-page document with incredibly specific safety guidelines to use when they do reopen .
• Providing disposable menus and making menus available digitally so that customers can view on a personal electronic device , if possible • No shared food condiments such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shared bread baskets , salad bars or buffets • No tableside food preparation and presentation , such as food item selection carts , conveyor belts or guacamole preparation • No after-meal mints , candies , snacks , or toothpicks set out for customers , but they may be provided individually with the check • No self-serve soda or frozen yogurt machines and no self-serve cutlery stations • No communal tables where you dine with strangers Many of the guidelines happen behind the scenes with recommendations for checking employees ’ temperatures , rules about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the like .
Local restaurateurs said they have already been following lots of these rules .
When dine-in service was no longer an option , Mel ’ s Drive-In locations in Hollywood , West Hollywood and Sherman Oaks reverted back to the ’ 50s with classic car hop service , said Colton Weiss , owner of Mel ’ s Drive-In and grandson to Mel himself .
“ I wouldn ’ t say we ’ re doing the numbers we used to do , but we ’ re making the best of it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and his staff are taking all of the suggested precautions including wearing masks , more vigorous sanitation and cleaning practices , including washing hands and wiping down often touched surfaces .
But the guidelines that created the most buzz were those that affect the customer experience .
Ed Lee , a co-founder of Wahoo ’ s Fish Tacos , with his brothers Wing Lam and Mingo Lee , said they ’ ve solved the mask issue with servers wearing clear plastic face shields .
That way customers will still be able to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But the new rules about no self-serve means the salsa bars are history .
“ Yeah , no more salsa bars for awhile , ” Ed Lee said .
As for chips and salsa there will be no help yourself station .
It will all be brought to your table , Lee said .
“ Once it gets to the table , it ’ s up to you .
Whether you want to share chips and salsa , French fries and onion rings .
Oh my God .
That whole thing is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while until people get into a comfort zone…The public has some responsibility on their own to walk in with a mask , take off their mask , eat their lunch , put back on their mask , sanitize their hands , go back to the car.
” Some partitions between customers and staff will be required but JC Clow , founding partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar , which has locations in Tustin and Newport Beach , said his restaurants have already made plans to take it a step farther , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ separate tables .
Clow said they started looking into changes in March , knowing that state and local health officials would impose new measures “ We heard of a couple hotels in Vegas like the Wynn and Aria did this and we wanted to follow suit , ” he said .
The Vineyard Rose Restaurant at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa in Temecula just reopened for takeout last week .
Jeff Carter , Carter Hospitality ’ s president who oversees operations at the winery resorts , hoped customers would embrace the guidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the urgency to heed the guidelines , and may take issue with our employees enforcing them .
We ’ re hopeful guests will be understanding and patient as we move through the re-opening phases.
” Ross Pangilinan , who runs ReMix Kitchen Bar , thinks many of the new guidelines are doable for his Long Beach restaurant , including reconfiguring his space so tables are six feet apart .
“ We would be at about 50 % capacity but we ’ re going to do our best to be able to do it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing that ?
” he said .
“ We still have rent to pay , insurance , taxes , all that stuff .
It ’ s going to be hard ; it ’ s going to be a challenge.
” For Ivan Vasquez , who owns a Oaxacan restaurant named Madre in Torrance and another one with the same name near Culver City , the new guidelines will mean added expenses during an already tough economic time .
But still , he ’ s willing to do what it takes to fully open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anything is going to be better than what we have now , ” he said .
Staff writers Richard Guzman and Kelli Skye Fadroski contributed to this story .

With devastating revenue losses mounting since the mid-March dining-in bans to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, Gov. Gavin Newsom provided re-opening guidelines for restaurants on Tuesday, May 12.
The bad news? No date has been set for Southern California restaurants to reopen. The good news? Newsom provided a 12-page document with incredibly specific safety guidelines to use when they do reopen.
Among them:
• Servers must wear masks
• Providing disposable menus and making menus available digitally so that customers can view on a personal electronic device, if possible
• No shared food condiments such as salt and pepper shakers, no shared bread baskets, salad bars or buffets
• No tableside food preparation and presentation, such as food item selection carts, conveyor belts or guacamole preparation
• No after-meal mints, candies, snacks, or toothpicks set out for customers, but they may be provided individually with the check
• No self-serve soda or frozen yogurt machines and no self-serve cutlery stations
• No communal tables where you dine with strangers
Many of the guidelines happen behind the scenes with recommendations for checking employees’ temperatures, rules about hand washing, gathering for breaks and the like. Local restaurateurs said they have already been following lots of these rules.
When dine-in service was no longer an option, Mel’s Drive-In locations in Hollywood, West Hollywood and Sherman Oaks reverted back to the ’50s with classic car hop service, said Colton Weiss, owner of Mel’s Drive-In and grandson to Mel himself.
“I wouldn’t say we’re doing the numbers we used to do, but we’re making the best of it,” he said.
Weiss said he and his staff are taking all of the suggested precautions including wearing masks, more vigorous sanitation and cleaning practices, including washing hands and wiping down often touched surfaces.
But the guidelines that created the most buzz were those that affect the customer experience.
Ed Lee, a co-founder of Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, with his brothers Wing Lam and Mingo Lee, said they’ve solved the mask issue with servers wearing clear plastic face shields. That way customers will still be able to see staff greet them with a friendly smile.
But the new rules about no self-serve means the salsa bars are history. “Yeah, no more salsa bars for awhile,” Ed Lee said.
As for chips and salsa there will be no help yourself station. It will all be brought to your table, Lee said. “Once it gets to the table, it’s up to you. Whether you want to share chips and salsa, French fries and onion rings. Oh my God. That whole thing is going to be a fiasco for a while until people get into a comfort zone…The public has some responsibility on their own to walk in with a mask, take off their mask, eat their lunch, put back on their mask, sanitize their hands, go back to the car.”
Some partitions between customers and staff will be required but JC Clow, founding partner of The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar, which has locations in Tustin and Newport Beach, said his restaurants have already made plans to take it a step farther, installing clear dividers between booths and to separate tables.
Clow said they started looking into changes in March, knowing that state and local health officials would impose new measures
“We heard of a couple hotels in Vegas like the Wynn and Aria did this and we wanted to follow suit,” he said.
The Vineyard Rose Restaurant at South Coast Winery Resort & Spa in Temecula just reopened for takeout last week. Jeff Carter, Carter Hospitality’s president who oversees operations at the winery resorts, hoped customers would embrace the guidelines.
“Not all guests may feel the urgency to heed the guidelines, and may take issue with our employees enforcing them. We’re hopeful guests will be understanding and patient as we move through the re-opening phases.”
Ross Pangilinan, who runs ReMix Kitchen Bar, thinks many of the new guidelines are doable for his Long Beach restaurant, including reconfiguring his space so tables are six feet apart. “We would be at about 50% capacity but we’re going to do our best to be able to do it. But how long could we last doing that?” he said. “We still have rent to pay, insurance, taxes, all that stuff. It’s going to be hard; it’s going to be a challenge.”
For Ivan Vasquez, who owns a Oaxacan restaurant named Madre in Torrance and another one with the same name near Culver City, the new guidelines will mean added expenses during an already tough economic time. But still, he’s willing to do what it takes to fully open his doors again.
“I think anything is going to be better than what we have now,” he said.
Staff writers Richard Guzman and Kelli Skye Fadroski contributed to this story.


mercurynews--2020-05-13--FBI arrests researcher for NASA who allegedly failed to report ties to China

Federal agents have arrested an Arkansas professor who allegedly failed to disclose his ties to Chinese entities during the course of securing funding for a NASA research project , the Justice Department announced .
Simon Saw-Teong Ang , 63 , of Fayetteville , was arrested by FBI agents on Friday and charged with wire fraud , according to a criminal complaint and affidavit obtained by CNN .
Authorities alleged Ang , an electrical engineering professor and researcher at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville ( UA ) since 1988 , defrauded NASA and the university “ by failing to disclose that he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Chinese companies ” in violation of conflict of interest policies , according to an FBI special agent ’ s affidavit in support of the complaint .
“ Ang made false statements and failed to report his outside employment to UA , which enabled Ang to keep his UA job as well as obtain [ US government ] research funding , ” according to the affidavit filed in US District Court for the Western District of Arkansas .
As part of his research , authorities said Ang received several grants and contracts from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ affidavit states that , while working for the university , “ Ang ’ s close ties to the Chinese government and employment with numerous Chinese companies would have made him ineligible to receive grants issued by United States government agencies.
” CNN reached out Tuesday to an attorney representing Ang for comment .
An initial court appearance was held Monday .
University is ‘ actively cooperating ’ with the investigation John Thomas , a spokesperson for the university , said in a statement to CNN , “ Simon Ang has been suspended without @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the university is actively cooperating with the federal investigation in this matter.
” The FBI affidavit says authorities discovered Ang ’ s alleged ties to Chinese interests after a university employee attempted to identify the owner of a hard drive that was placed in lost-and-found at a campus library .
While reviewing the contents of the hard drive , which were later turned over to the FBI , the affidavit says , the employee discovered an email exchange between Ang and a visiting researcher from Xidian University in Xi ’ an , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussion , Ang wrote that things were becoming difficult for him because of the current political climate , according to the affidavit .
“ You can search the Chinese website regarding what the US will do to Thousand Talent Scholars , ” Ang wrote , according to the complaint , adding , “ Not many people here know I am one of them but if this leaks out , my job here will be in deep troubles ( sic ) .
” According to the FBI , those associated with China ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or study outside of China in high-priority research fields .
While not traditional spies , investigators say they are nevertheless collecting research information sought by Chinese authorities .
“ While mere participation in a talent plan is not illegal , ” said John Brown , senior FBI national security executive , in congressional testimony last year , “ investigations by the FBI and our partner agencies have revealed that participants are often incentivized to transfer to China the research they conduct in the United States , as well as other proprietary information to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remain a significant threat to the United States.
” According to the criminal complaint , Ang did disclose his participation in one Thousand Talents Scholar program to the university in 2014 , but failed to report his involvement in other programs between 2012 and 2018 .
While the FBI ’ s reference to the Thousand Talents Scholar program pertains to an area typically worked by the agency ’ s counterintelligence investigators , the federal charge spelled out in the criminal complaint against Ang relates to wire fraud rather than espionage .
In particular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2016 by facilitating the submission of a proposal to NASA for a contract worth more than half a million dollars , without disclosing potential conflicts of interest associated with his hidden involvement with Chinese entities .
His proposal was ultimately selected by NASA .
If convicted , federal officials say , Ang faces a statutory maximum punishment of 20 years in prison .

Federal agents have arrested an Arkansas professor who allegedly failed to disclose his ties to Chinese entities during the course of securing funding for a NASA research project, the Justice Department announced.
Simon Saw-Teong Ang, 63, of Fayetteville, was arrested by FBI agents on Friday and charged with wire fraud, according to a criminal complaint and affidavit obtained by CNN.
Authorities alleged Ang, an electrical engineering professor and researcher at the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville (UA) since 1988, defrauded NASA and the university “by failing to disclose that he held other positions at a Chinese university and Chinese companies” in violation of conflict of interest policies, according to an FBI special agent’s affidavit in support of the complaint.
“Ang made false statements and failed to report his outside employment to UA, which enabled Ang to keep his UA job as well as obtain [US government] research funding,” according to the affidavit filed in US District Court for the Western District of Arkansas.
As part of his research, authorities said Ang received several grants and contracts from federal agencies, including NASA.
The affidavit states that, while working for the university, “Ang’s close ties to the Chinese government and employment with numerous Chinese companies would have made him ineligible to receive grants issued by United States government agencies.”
CNN reached out Tuesday to an attorney representing Ang for comment. An initial court appearance was held Monday.
University is ‘actively cooperating’ with the investigation
John Thomas, a spokesperson for the university, said in a statement to CNN, “Simon Ang has been suspended without pay from his responsibilities with the university and the university is actively cooperating with the federal investigation in this matter.”
The FBI affidavit says authorities discovered Ang’s alleged ties to Chinese interests after a university employee attempted to identify the owner of a hard drive that was placed in lost-and-found at a campus library.
While reviewing the contents of the hard drive, which were later turned over to the FBI, the affidavit says, the employee discovered an email exchange between Ang and a visiting researcher from Xidian University in Xi’an, China.
In the September 2018 email discussion, Ang wrote that things were becoming difficult for him because of the current political climate, according to the affidavit.
“You can search the Chinese website regarding what the US will do to Thousand Talent Scholars,” Ang wrote, according to the complaint, adding, “Not many people here know I am one of them but if this leaks out, my job here will be in deep troubles (sic).”
According to the FBI, those associated with China’s Thousand Talents program are individuals who work or study outside of China in high-priority research fields. While not traditional spies, investigators say they are nevertheless collecting research information sought by Chinese authorities.
Fraud charge
“While mere participation in a talent plan is not illegal,” said John Brown, senior FBI national security executive, in congressional testimony last year, “investigations by the FBI and our partner agencies have revealed that participants are often incentivized to transfer to China the research they conduct in the United States, as well as other proprietary information to which they can gain access, and remain a significant threat to the United States.”
According to the criminal complaint, Ang did disclose his participation in one Thousand Talents Scholar program to the university in 2014, but failed to report his involvement in other programs between 2012 and 2018.
Related Articles Crime and Public Safety | Meteors will streak across the sky in one of the year’s most anticipated celestial displays
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NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab makes contact with Voyager 2 after week of no communication Crime and Public Safety | Carl Sagan’s personal recording of Voyager record for sale While the FBI’s reference to the Thousand Talents Scholar program pertains to an area typically worked by the agency’s counterintelligence investigators, the federal charge spelled out in the criminal complaint against Ang relates to wire fraud rather than espionage.
In particular, authorities allege Ang committed fraud in 2016 by facilitating the submission of a proposal to NASA for a contract worth more than half a million dollars, without disclosing potential conflicts of interest associated with his hidden involvement with Chinese entities. His proposal was ultimately selected by NASA.
If convicted, federal officials say, Ang faces a statutory maximum punishment of 20 years in prison.
The-CNN-Wire
™ & © 2020 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.


mercurynews--2020-05-13--Letter: Does the GOP fear it may lose a legitimate and fair election?

Does the GOP fear it may lose a legitimate election ?
The Republican Party has made it their mission to prevent as many Americans as possible from voting .
Why ?
Because they might lose a legitimate and fair election .
So , they want to suppress voting for as many reasons as they can dream up : requiring voter ID cards , not allowing ex-felons to vote , hiding election results , changing voting locations or eliminating them , keeping the Electoral College , trying to squelch vote-by-mail efforts , and more myriad questionable tactics .
They keep crying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ evidence .
• Letter : Traffic is ideal now for fixing freeways — 101 , 280 , 580 and 680 • Letter : Hayward leaders urged to keep public golf course open • Letter : This act helps us prepare for the next outbreak • Letter : Thanks to this , the Bay Area isn ’ t reliving 1918 flu horrors now • Letter : COVID-19 shows what happens when we ignore early warnings We lack a president , a Senate leader and an attorney general .
If you ’ re not uncomfortable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Sad .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Does the GOP fear it may
lose a legitimate election?
The Republican Party has made it their mission to prevent as many Americans as possible from voting. Why? Because they might lose a legitimate and fair election.
So, they want to suppress voting for as many reasons as they can dream up: requiring voter ID cards, not allowing ex-felons to vote, hiding election results, changing voting locations or eliminating them, keeping the Electoral College, trying to squelch vote-by-mail efforts, and more myriad questionable tactics.
They keep crying fraud, but there’s no evidence.
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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 We lack a president, a Senate leader and an attorney general. If you’re not uncomfortable or bothered about this, they succeed. Sad.
Stuart Shicoff
Martinez
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mercurynews--2020-05-13--Letter: Traffic is ideal now for fixing freeways — 101, 280, 580 and 680

Traffic ideal now for fixing 101 , 280 , 580 and 680 Would this period of minimal traffic be the opportune time for repairing the freeways and arterial roads in the Bay Area ?
There are sections of roadway on Highway 101 and Interstates 280 , 580 and 680 that need immediate attention due to potholes and overuse .
Our infrastructure needs maintenance work that can be implemented during this emergency period .
This action will make a difference in our economy .
Surely , federal and state funds could be used for these projects right away .
Employing construction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These workers could also be partially paid in discounted local restaurant coupons to , in turn , give a boost to small businesses .
• Letter : Does the GOP fear it may lose a legitimate and fair election ?
• Letter : Hayward leaders urged to keep public golf course open • Letter : This act helps us prepare for the next outbreak • Letter : Thanks to this , the Bay Area isn ’ t reliving 1918 flu horrors now • Letter : COVID-19 shows what happens when we ignore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ obvious .
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Traffic ideal now for fixing
101, 280, 580 and 680
Would this period of minimal traffic be the opportune time for repairing the freeways and arterial roads in the Bay Area?
There are sections of roadway on Highway 101 and Interstates 280, 580 and 680 that need immediate attention due to potholes and overuse.
Our infrastructure needs maintenance work that can be implemented during this emergency period.
This action will make a difference in our economy. Surely, federal and state funds could be used for these projects right away.
Employing construction workers will also be a statewide stimulus. These workers could also be partially paid in discounted local restaurant coupons to, in turn, give a boost to small businesses.
Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
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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 The urgency and need is obvious.
Iqbal Serang
Santa Clara
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mercurynews--2020-05-13--Word Game: May 13, 2020

Word Game: May 13, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — UNCTUOUSLY ( UNCTUOUSLY : UNGK-choo-us-lee : With an exaggerated or insincere earnestness . )
Can @ @ @ @ @ words in UNCTUOUSLY ?
The list will be published tomorrow .
To purchase the Word @ @ @ @ @ .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
Words @ @ @ @ @ more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “ @ @ @ @ @ “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
Additional @ @ @ @ @ “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For example @ @ @ @ @ is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , but @ @ @ @ @ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or vulgar @ @ @ @ @ not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — UNCTUOUSLY (UNCTUOUSLY: UNGK-choo-us-lee: With an exaggerated or insincere earnestness.)
Average mark 25 words
Time limit 40 minutes
Can you find 37 or more words in UNCTUOUSLY? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — TOXICOLOGY toil tool toxic oily olio otic otology igloo city
clog clot cloy coil colt cool coot logic logo logy loot lotic gilt yogi
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


mercurynews--2020-05-13--Horoscopes May 13, 2020: Lena Dunham, question everything.

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY : Candice King , 33 ; Lena Dunham , 34 ; Stephen Colbert , 56 ; Stevie Wonder , 70 .
Happy Birthday : Question everything , choose quality over quantity and keep your emotions under control .
Balance , integrity and fair play will be necessary if you want to avoid conflicts and interference .
Choose to look at every angle , and use your intelligence and experience to guide you in the best direction possible .
Aim to make fond memories instead of regrets .
Your numbers are 9 , 17 , 23 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 42 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : A positive attitude will help you drum up interest in what you are trying to pursue .
Don ’ t let the changes others make slow you down or confuse you .
Follow your heart , and focus on what ’ s important to you .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : You ’ ll do best if you listen more and reveal less .
Keep your life simple and your expenses down , and avoid exaggeration , indulgence and promises @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others do , but don ’ t criticize .
Don ’ t make emotional decisions .
2 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 ) : There is no better time to think , mull over and reflect .
Revisit what ’ s happened , how you reacted and what you can do to make improvements .
Anger solves nothing , but taking decisive action will encourage better days ahead .
Offer a kind gesture .
5 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Enjoy time alone , and you will have a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as reflect on those you miss .
Pick up the phone , and let someone you love know you care .
A friendly reminder or an encouraging word will be welcome .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : You ’ ll be on edge if you let the little things get to you .
Take a deep breath , and rethink your strategy .
Don ’ t let a change or decision someone enforces cause anxiety .
Go about your business , and do what ’ s best for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 23-Sept. 22 ) : An attitude adjustment may be required .
Try moving things around or clearing a space to house a hobby you want to pursue .
Keep busy , do something constructive , set up an online group meeting and socialize with like-minded people .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : This is the perfect day to set up a conference call or to check into social media to find out what your friends have been doing .
Watch documentaries or informative videos online , and share what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Emotional situations regarding financial , medical or legal issues you face will surface .
Stay calm , and look for an innovative way to deal with matters , and it will ease stress and help you make adjustments that will offset future problems .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Chat with peers , and you will discover an insightful way to use your skills fortuitously .
The suggestions made can lead to an alternative way to earn a living .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ If you love someone , say so .
4 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Money matters may be worrisome , but that doesn ’ t mean you should let anger set in or lead to problems with someone you love .
Set new ground rules and a budget that will help you overcome any losses you encounter in order to alleviate tension .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Channel your energy into physical fitness , healthy living and sharing your thoughts , feelings and intentions with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ let the changing times ruin your plans .
Make adjustments , and proceed .
An innovative approach to a growing problem will change the outcome .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : Offer your services online , or get involved in a movement in your community that helps those in need .
Finding new ways to adjust to the lifestyle changes you face will help solve boredom .
Be part of the solution , not the problem .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are enthusiastic , innovative and sensitive @ @ @ @ @ @ @

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Candice King, 33; Lena Dunham, 34; Stephen Colbert, 56; Stevie Wonder, 70.
Happy Birthday: Question everything, choose quality over quantity and keep your emotions under control. Balance, integrity and fair play will be necessary if you want to avoid conflicts and interference. Choose to look at every angle, and use your intelligence and experience to guide you in the best direction possible. Aim to make fond memories instead of regrets. Your numbers are 9, 17, 23, 25, 34, 36, 42.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): A positive attitude will help you drum up interest in what you are trying to pursue. Don’t let the changes others make slow you down or confuse you. Follow your heart, and focus on what’s important to you. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You’ll do best if you listen more and reveal less. Keep your life simple and your expenses down, and avoid exaggeration, indulgence and promises you cannot keep. Monitor what others do, but don’t criticize. Don’t make emotional decisions. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): There is no better time to think, mull over and reflect. Revisit what’s happened, how you reacted and what you can do to make improvements. Anger solves nothing, but taking decisive action will encourage better days ahead. Offer a kind gesture. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Enjoy time alone, and you will have a chance to appreciate your own company as well as reflect on those you miss. Pick up the phone, and let someone you love know you care. A friendly reminder or an encouraging word will be welcome. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You’ll be on edge if you let the little things get to you. Take a deep breath, and rethink your strategy. Don’t let a change or decision someone enforces cause anxiety. Go about your business, and do what’s best for you. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): An attitude adjustment may be required. Try moving things around or clearing a space to house a hobby you want to pursue. Keep busy, do something constructive, set up an online group meeting and socialize with like-minded people. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): This is the perfect day to set up a conference call or to check into social media to find out what your friends have been doing. Watch documentaries or informative videos online, and share what you discover with someone you love. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Emotional situations regarding financial, medical or legal issues you face will surface. Stay calm, and look for an innovative way to deal with matters, and it will ease stress and help you make adjustments that will offset future problems. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Chat with peers, and you will discover an insightful way to use your skills fortuitously. The suggestions made can lead to an alternative way to earn a living. Don’t hide your feelings. If you love someone, say so. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Money matters may be worrisome, but that doesn’t mean you should let anger set in or lead to problems with someone you love. Set new ground rules and a budget that will help you overcome any losses you encounter in order to alleviate tension. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Channel your energy into physical fitness, healthy living and sharing your thoughts, feelings and intentions with someone you love. Don’t let the changing times ruin your plans. Make adjustments, and proceed. An innovative approach to a growing problem will change the outcome. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Offer your services online, or get involved in a movement in your community that helps those in need. Finding new ways to adjust to the lifestyle changes you face will help solve boredom. Be part of the solution, not the problem. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are enthusiastic, innovative and sensitive. You are compassionate and unpredictable.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Bridge: May 13, 2020

Here ’ s a valuable principle of declarer play : When the play may be a struggle — maybe keeping control of your trump suit is an issue — establish your side suit , and start early .
At today ’ s four hearts , South takes the ace of diamonds and has only two fast losers .
For 10 winners , he needs dummy ’ s long clubs .
Say South takes the A-K of trumps .
When West discards , South tries the A-K of clubs , but East ruffs and leads his last trump .
South goes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bad breaks in both of his key suits , hence he should attack his side suit early .
( Setting up a long suit is my focus this week . )
South can win the first diamond and immediately lead the A-K of clubs .
If East ruffs and leads a trump ( he has no better defense ) , South wins in dummy , ruffs a club , leads a trump to dummy and ruffs a club .
Later he draws East ’ s last trump and takes the good clubs .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The recommended line offers a chance for an overtrick .
You hold : S Q 6 5 3 H A J 7 2 D A 8 4 C 7 6 .
The dealer , at your left , opens one diamond .
Your partner doubles , and the next player bids two diamonds .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : Partner has opening values or more with support for the unbid suits , especially the majors , hence you should have a game .
But he may have better support for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three diamonds to let him suggest a suit .
When he bids a major , raise to game .

Here’s a valuable principle of declarer play: When the play may be a struggle — maybe keeping control of your trump suit is an issue — establish your side suit, and start early.
At today’s four hearts, South takes the ace of diamonds and has only two fast losers. For 10 winners, he needs dummy’s long clubs. Say South takes the A-K of trumps. When West discards, South tries the A-K of clubs, but East ruffs and leads his last trump. South goes down three.
BAD BREAKS
South must allow for bad breaks in both of his key suits, hence he should attack his side suit early. (Setting up a long suit is my focus this week.) South can win the first diamond and immediately lead the A-K of clubs.
If East ruffs and leads a trump (he has no better defense), South wins in dummy, ruffs a club, leads a trump to dummy and ruffs a club. Later he draws East’s last trump and takes the good clubs.
South has other winning lines of play. The recommended line offers a chance for an overtrick.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S Q 6 5 3 H A J 7 2 D A 8 4 C 7 6. The dealer, at your left, opens one diamond. Your partner doubles, and the next player bids two diamonds. What do you say?
ANSWER: Partner has opening values or more with support for the unbid suits, especially the majors, hence you should have a game. But he may have better support for one major than the other. Cue-bid three diamonds to let him suggest a suit. When he bids a major, raise to game.
North dealer
Both sides vulnerable
NORTH
S 2
H K Q 10 9
D 7 3
C A K 9 4 3 2
WEST
S K 10 7
H 5
D K Q 10 6 2
C Q J 8 5
EAST
S A J 9 8 4
H 8 6 4 3
D J 9 5
C 10
SOUTH
S Q 6 5 3
H A J 7 2
D A 8 4
C 7 6
North East South West
1 C Pass 1 H Pass
2 H Pass 2 NT Pass
4 H All Pass
Opening lead — D K
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-05-14--Beckett Cypher, 21-year-old son of Melissa Etheridge, dies

The death was announced Wednesday on the singer ’ s Twitter account Wednesday .
No cause of death or other @ @ @ @ @ tweet said the daily Facebook Live concert Etheridge has been giving during the coronavirus outbreak @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re sad to inform you that Melissa ’ s son Beckett passed away @ @ @ @ @ a Concerts From Home show today , ” the tweet read .
Beckett Cypher was @ @ @ @ @ had with former partner Julie Cypher , conceived with sperm from Rock & Roll Hall @ @ @ @ @ Their daughter Bailey Jean Cypher was born in 1997 , Beckett Cypher in 1998 .
@ @ @ @ @ winner , singer-songwriter and activist , also has 13-year-old twins .
Her representatives did not @ @ @ @ @ .

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Melissa Etheridge’s 21-year-old son Beckett Cypher has died.
The death was announced Wednesday on the singer’s Twitter account Wednesday.
The initial tweet said the daily Facebook Live concert Etheridge has been giving during the coronavirus outbreak would be canceled.
“We’re sad to inform you that Melissa’s son Beckett passed away and there will not be a Concerts From Home show today,” the tweet read.
Later, Etheridge released a statement: “Today I joined the hundreds of thousands of families who have lost loved ones to opioid addiction. My son Beckett, who was just 21, struggled to overcome his addiction and finally succumbed to it today.”
No further details on the death were revealed.
Beckett Cypher was one of two children Etheridge had with former partner Julie Cypher, conceived with sperm from Rock & Roll Hall of Famer David Crosby.
Their daughter Bailey Jean Cypher was born in 1997, Beckett Cypher in 1998.
The couple split in 2000.
Etheridge, a 58-year-old Grammy winner, singer-songwriter and activist, also has 13-year-old twins.
Her representatives did not return a request for comment.


mercurynews--2020-05-14--Kurtenbach: A way-too-early 49ers 53-man (and practice squad) roster prediction

Depth is always a separator in the NFL ’ s game of attrition , but projecting out to the fall , depth might never be more important than in the 2020 season , thanks to Covid-19 .
Luckily for the 49ers , they ’ re arguably the deepest team in the NFL .
And seeing as how there will unlikely be offseason workouts — and perhaps a truncated training camp as well — it hardly seems to aggressive to project the 53-man roster this far away from the season kickoff , whenever that might be .
Because , truth be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than we know now in a few months .
The quarterback position is arguably the most important in all of team sports and we ’ ve seen in recent years the backup position — previously overlooked — take on some of that importance .
But now there ’ s a virus floating around that will sideline players for two weeks if they test positive .
Backup quarterback has never been important .
As such , don ’ t expect the Niners to be bold on this front in 2020 .
If they couldn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2019 season , there ’ s no way they ’ ll split with him ahead of 2020 .
And while Mullens might be an interesting trade piece for San Francisco ahead of the season , the increased possibility of losing Garoppolo for multiple games likely means that No .
4 remains No .
10 ’ s backup this season .
I like Rutter — he has some real Mullens-like qualities , and I can see him taking over as the No .
2 as soon as 2021 , but I doubt that Shanahan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He moves to the practice squad .
*** I don ’ t know how much play there will be ahead of the season , but if there is a full training camp , I expect this position to create plenty of debate .
Projecting out , there will be some that believe that Hasty and Wilson should supplant Coleman and McKinnon , but my bet is that Shanahan goes with the veterans .
If the Niners were considering moving on from Coleman , they likely would have cut him before his $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April 1 .
As for McKinnon , Shanahan has not shown the ability to admit a sunk cost yet in his time in charge of the Niners — San Francisco re-signed the scatback this past offseason with the intention of finally getting him on the field in the regular season .
It seems ridiculous that Wilson would go back to the practice squad , and perhaps there is a team that will pick up his contract when he hits waivers , but the Niners would like to keep him in Santa Clara for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frequent game-day callup under the NFL ’ s new practice squad rules , which allow for two understudy players to be elevated to the now-55-man roster on Sundays .
I bet the Niners like Hasty — the undrafted free agent out of Baylor who has great burst and bounce in the backfield — to stick around as a long-term project , too .
The starters are clear — it ’ s Aiyuk and Samuel out wide in the 49ers ’ “ base ” 21 personnel sets .
When the Niners go to three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be mixing and matching — Taylor fits the typical “ slot receiver ” role , Bourne could be inside or out with Samuel or Aiyuk in the slot , and Hurd — if healthy — is a matchup nightmare , capable of motioning to any wide receiver spot , fullback , running back , or tight end .
It ’ s Hurd ’ s tight end ability that might create a spot for Jennings on this squad .
( More on that in a moment . )
The rookie out Tennessee would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ could be valuable in the red zone .
Pettis remains as a backup at split end .
The Niners have clearly indicated they don ’ t want to give up on him just yet .
His contract helps keeps him around , too .
Missing the cut would be undrafted free agent Chris Finke — a practice squad player who could return kicks in a pinch — Travis Benjamin and Richie James .
The Niners could go with two at this position , thanks to the versatility of Hurd .
If a fringe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dwelley doesn ’ t perform , do not count it out .
Also , do not sleep on Harrell , the undrafted free agent out of Arkansas — he could make a camp push as a move tight end .
Rounding up the precarious situation for Dwelley , the Niners could pick up a veteran , blocking free agent at tight end to replace him in camp , as I expect Woerner — drafted as a blocking tight end — to surprise with his receiving ability in camp .
In this projection , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s evident that after a season where he was an adequate but flawed fill-in at two positions , he isn ’ t guaranteed a spot on this loaded roster .
*** The Niners don ’ t like to be short of offensive linemen , and despite plenty of position versatility , my bet is that they carry nine on the 53-man roster .
This is in part because the Niners don ’ t have a clear practice-squad offensive lineman ( I doubt Skule makes it through waivers — the NFL is in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also because Shanahan is still scarred from the 2017 game where Garrett Celek nearly needed to play tackle amid a series injuries up front .
There is only one clear position battle in whatever the preseason is : Brunskill vs Compton for the right guard position .
If Richburg , indeed , starts the season on the PUP list , that will allow for the Niners to keep both the loser of the right guard battle and swing tackle Shon Coleman on the roster — with either Compton or Coleman being cut ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bring the No .
1 center back into the fold .
*** Another straightforward play for Shanahan and company .
Taylor and Blair are coming off season-ending injuries which might keep them out into September .
In their stead , Hyder , a defensive end , and Givens , a defensive tackle , make the squad .
Upon Taylor and Blair ’ s returns , though , both will get the subsequent ax , with Givens likely going back to the practice squad .
Daniels , an undrafted free agent out of Nebraska @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Jones at 1-technique — a role held down by the departed Sheldon Day .
*** Walker and Nzeocha are veterans with tremendous special teams experience , and Griffith could no doubt go to the practice squad , but I ’ m betting that the undrafted free agent out of Indiana State is so wildly impressive in camp that he forces the 49ers ’ hand .
He ’ s a viable backup to Warner and has all the makings of being a special teams ace himself .
Keep an eye on Flannigan-Fowles , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ practice squad last year — I expect him to return — but his versatility ( he ’ s a safety-linebacker hybrid who could play in the slot if needed ) could see him land one as a practice squad player who is frequently promoted on game days .
*** Harris , who missed last season because of injury , was cited often by the Niners as the reason why they didn ’ t go with a cornerback in this year ’ s draft .
I expect him to be given every opportunity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I don ’ t expect too much trouble in beating out Johnson or Verrett .
Tabor makes the practice squad , again , but Acy is the former SEC player who might see call-ups in the season .
Reed will also take on returning responsibilities this season .
My bet is that Malden will make a push for Harris ’ job , but as it will be easier for the Niners to move the undrafted free agent out of Alabama to the practice squad than it will be to get Harris through waivers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 5.1 million in dead cap money stays on the Niners books if released ) , so don ’ t expect a switch at kicker this season .
Both Wishnowsky and Nelson proved their values last year .
Write their names in with a pen .
It ’ ll be interesting to see if the Niners add a punter to the practice squad , though , in case of emergency .
( My bet is that Tabor would be the odd man out in that situation . )

Depth is always a separator in the NFL’s game of attrition, but projecting out to the fall, depth might never be more important than in the 2020 season, thanks to Covid-19.
Luckily for the 49ers, they’re arguably the deepest team in the NFL.
And seeing as how there will unlikely be offseason workouts — and perhaps a truncated training camp as well — it hardly seems to aggressive to project the 53-man roster this far away from the season kickoff, whenever that might be.
Because, truth be told, we might not know more than we know now in a few months.
***
Offensive Players – 24
Base starters denoted by an asterisk
Quarterback (3)
Jimmy Garoppolo*, Nick Mullens, C.J. Beathard
Missing the cut: Broc Rutter (PS)
The quarterback position is arguably the most important in all of team sports and we’ve seen in recent years the backup position — previously overlooked — take on some of that importance.
But now there’s a virus floating around that will sideline players for two weeks if they test positive. Backup quarterback has never been important.
As such, don’t expect the Niners to be bold on this front in 2020. If they couldn’t part with Beathard before the 2019 season, there’s no way they’ll split with him ahead of 2020. And while Mullens might be an interesting trade piece for San Francisco ahead of the season, the increased possibility of losing Garoppolo for multiple games likely means that No. 4 remains No. 10’s backup this season.
I like Rutter — he has some real Mullens-like qualities, and I can see him taking over as the No. 2 as soon as 2021, but I doubt that Shanahan goes with him over Beathard this season. He moves to the practice squad.
***
Running Back (4)
Raheem Mostert*, Kyle Juszczyk*, Tevin Coleman, Jerick McKinnon
Missing the cut: Jeff Wilson Jr. (PS), JaMycal Hasty (PS), Josh Hokit (PS), Salvon Ahmed
I don’t know how much play there will be ahead of the season, but if there is a full training camp, I expect this position to create plenty of debate.
Projecting out, there will be some that believe that Hasty and Wilson should supplant Coleman and McKinnon, but my bet is that Shanahan goes with the veterans. If the Niners were considering moving on from Coleman, they likely would have cut him before his $2 million roster bonus became guaranteed on April 1. As for McKinnon, Shanahan has not shown the ability to admit a sunk cost yet in his time in charge of the Niners — San Francisco re-signed the scatback this past offseason with the intention of finally getting him on the field in the regular season.
It seems ridiculous that Wilson would go back to the practice squad, and perhaps there is a team that will pick up his contract when he hits waivers, but the Niners would like to keep him in Santa Clara for emergency purposes. He could be a frequent game-day callup under the NFL’s new practice squad rules, which allow for two understudy players to be elevated to the now-55-man roster on Sundays.
I bet the Niners like Hasty — the undrafted free agent out of Baylor who has great burst and bounce in the backfield — to stick around as a long-term project, too.
***
Wide Receiver (6)
Brandon Aiyuk*, Deebo Samuel*, Trent Taylor, Jalen Hurd, Kendrick Bourne, Dante Pettis
Missing the cut: Jauan Jennings (PS) Chris Finke (PS), Travis Benjamin, Chris Thompson, Richie James, Shawn Poindexter
The starters are clear — it’s Aiyuk and Samuel out wide in the 49ers’ “base” 21 personnel sets. When the Niners go to three wide receivers, I imagine there will be mixing and matching — Taylor fits the typical “slot receiver” role, Bourne could be inside or out with Samuel or Aiyuk in the slot, and Hurd — if healthy — is a matchup nightmare, capable of motioning to any wide receiver spot, fullback, running back, or tight end.
It’s Hurd’s tight end ability that might create a spot for Jennings on this squad. (More on that in a moment.) The rookie out Tennessee would be a “big slot” option who could be valuable in the red zone.
Pettis remains as a backup at split end. The Niners have clearly indicated they don’t want to give up on him just yet. His contract helps keeps him around, too.
Missing the cut would be undrafted free agent Chris Finke — a practice squad player who could return kicks in a pinch — Travis Benjamin and Richie James.
***
Tight End (3)
George Kittle*, Charlie Woerner, Ross Dwelley
Missing the cut: Chase Herrell (PS), Daniel Helm
The Niners could go with two at this position, thanks to the versatility of Hurd. If a fringe wide receiver makes a late push and Dwelley doesn’t perform, do not count it out. Also, do not sleep on Harrell, the undrafted free agent out of Arkansas — he could make a camp push as a move tight end.
Rounding up the precarious situation for Dwelley, the Niners could pick up a veteran, blocking free agent at tight end to replace him in camp, as I expect Woerner — drafted as a blocking tight end — to surprise with his receiving ability in camp.
In this projection, he makes the roster, but it’s evident that after a season where he was an adequate but flawed fill-in at two positions, he isn’t guaranteed a spot on this loaded roster.
***
Offensive Line (9)
Trent Williams*, Laken Tomlinson*, Ben Garland*, Dan Brunskill*, Mike McGlinchey*, Colton McKivitiz, Justin Skule, Tom Compton, Shon Coleman
PUP: Weston Richburg
Missing the cut: Ross Reynolds (PS), Kofi Amichia, Jake Brendel, Jared Jones-Smith, Leonard Wester
The Niners don’t like to be short of offensive linemen, and despite plenty of position versatility, my bet is that they carry nine on the 53-man roster. This is in part because the Niners don’t have a clear practice-squad offensive lineman (I doubt Skule makes it through waivers — the NFL is in desperate need of tackles), but also because Shanahan is still scarred from the 2017 game where Garrett Celek nearly needed to play tackle amid a series injuries up front.
There is only one clear position battle in whatever the preseason is: Brunskill vs Compton for the right guard position.
If Richburg, indeed, starts the season on the PUP list, that will allow for the Niners to keep both the loser of the right guard battle and swing tackle Shon Coleman on the roster — with either Compton or Coleman being cut (but kept on speed dial) to bring the No. 1 center back into the fold.
***
Defensive Players – 26
Defensive line (10)
Arik Armstead*, Javon Kinlaw*, DJ Jones*, Nick Bosa*, Dee Ford, Solomon Thomas, Kentavious Street, Darrion Daniels, Kerry Hyder, Kevin Givens
PUP: Jullian Taylor, Ronald Blair
Missing the cut: Alex Barrett, Ray Smith, Jonathan Kongbo, Willie Henry
Another straightforward play for Shanahan and company. Taylor and Blair are coming off season-ending injuries which might keep them out into September. In their stead, Hyder, a defensive end, and Givens, a defensive tackle, make the squad. Upon Taylor and Blair’s returns, though, both will get the subsequent ax, with Givens likely going back to the practice squad.
Daniels, an undrafted free agent out of Nebraska, makes the team as a backup to Jones at 1-technique — a role held down by the departed Sheldon Day.
***
Linebackers (6)
Fred Warner*, Kwon Alexander*, Dre Greenlaw, Azeez Al-Shaair, Jonas Griffith
Missing the cut: Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (PS), Joe Walker, Mark Nzeocha
Walker and Nzeocha are veterans with tremendous special teams experience, and Griffith could no doubt go to the practice squad, but I’m betting that the undrafted free agent out of Indiana State is so wildly impressive in camp that he forces the 49ers’ hand. He’s a viable backup to Warner and has all the makings of being a special teams ace himself.
Keep an eye on Flannigan-Fowles, too. He was on the Niners’ practice squad last year — I expect him to return — but his versatility (he’s a safety-linebacker hybrid who could play in the slot if needed) could see him land one as a practice squad player who is frequently promoted on game days.
***
Cornerback (6)
Richard Sherman*, Emmanuel Moseley*, Ahkello Witherspoon, Tim Harris, K’Waun Williams*, D.J. Reed
Missing the cut: Dontae Johnson, Jason Verrett, DeMarkus Acy (PS), Jalen Tabor (PS), Jermaine Kelly
Harris, who missed last season because of injury, was cited often by the Niners as the reason why they didn’t go with a cornerback in this year’s draft. I expect him to be given every opportunity to make the 53-man roster, and I don’t expect too much trouble in beating out Johnson or Verrett. Tabor makes the practice squad, again, but Acy is the former SEC player who might see call-ups in the season.
Reed will also take on returning responsibilities this season.
***
Safety (4)
Jimmie Ward*, Jaqusiki Tartt*, Tarvarius Moore, Marcell Harris
Missing the cut: Jared Malden (PS), Derrick Kindred, Chris Edwards
My bet is that Malden will make a push for Harris’ job, but as it will be easier for the Niners to move the undrafted free agent out of Alabama to the practice squad than it will be to get Harris through waivers.
***
Specialists (3)
Longsnapper Kyle Nelson*, kicker Robbie Gould*, punter Mitch Wishnowsky*
Gould is effectively uncuttable ($5.1 million in dead cap money stays on the Niners books if released), so don’t expect a switch at kicker this season.
Both Wishnowsky and Nelson proved their values last year. Write their names in with a pen.
It’ll be interesting to see if the Niners add a punter to the practice squad, though, in case of emergency. (My bet is that Tabor would be the odd man out in that situation.)


mercurynews--2020-05-14--Letter: Idea to give service jobs to grads is a win-win-win

Idea to give service jobs to grads is a win-win-win Re : “ Brooks : We need to expand national @ @ @ @ @ Opinion section , May 10 ) : I have long favored this idea and now @ @ @ @ @ ripe .
It ’ s win , win , win .
Those graduating from high @ @ @ @ @ current opportunity for job , college or other training take government-funded service jobs of limited @ @ @ @ @ economy and their personal lives .
Participants serve their country while gaining basic income and @ @ @ @ @ unexpected situations and locations .
Years from now they may look back on this pandemic @ @ @ @ @ , but still value and be inspired by this service experience .
• Letter : @ @ @ @ @ may lose a legitimate and fair election ?
Please urge senators to support Delaware Sen. @ @ @ @ @ similar programs .
It ’ s definitely money well-spent .
Submit your letter to the @ @ @ @ @ more Letters to the Editor

Idea to give service jobs
to grads is a win-win-win
Re: “Brooks: We need to expand national service, now” (Opinion section, May 10):
I have long favored this idea and now more than ever it seems ripe.
It’s win, win, win. Those graduating from high school or college with no current opportunity for job, college or other training take government-funded service jobs of limited duration while sorting out the economy and their personal lives.
Participants serve their country while gaining basic income and the opportunity to work in unexpected situations and locations. Years from now they may look back on this pandemic as a really rough time, but still value and be inspired by this service experience.
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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 Please urge senators to support Delaware Sen. Chris Coons’ bill and similar programs. It’s definitely money well-spent.
Edith Drewek
Mountain View
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mercurynews--2020-05-13--Nurses say Santa Clara County failed to keep them safe at nursing homes with COVID-19 outbreaks

SAN JOSE — Nurses sent by Santa Clara County to assist beleaguered nursing homes overwhelmed by COVID-19 outbreaks are pushing back , saying the county has failed to deliver on promises to keep them safe amid the pandemic .
Two unions representing county workers — the Registered Nurses Professional Association and SEIU Local 521 — together filed an unfair labor practice charge with the California State Public Employment Relations Board , alleging that Santa Clara County officials made “ false assurances ” that workers sent into the nursing facilities would treat only COVID-19-negative patients and have adequate supervision , training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Nothing could be further from the truth , ” the charge states .
It also claims that the county refused to give prior notice or an opportunity for the unions to bargain over the assignments , even after employees complained that being sent into the skilled nursing facilities exposed them to “ life-threatening workplace hazards.
” Such behavior by the county is a violation of its obligations to workers laid out in the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act — a state law that sets labor management rules for governments and their workers — the unions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ applies even with the county ’ s state of emergency .
County Executive Dr. Jeffrey Smith did not immediately comment on the allegations Wednesday .
The county began sending its employees — assigned as “ disaster service workers ” – to help at nursing facilities hard hit by the virus .
Four nursing homes in the county have accounted for more than 350 infected patients and staff members , according to the county ’ s latest numbers .
That includes Valley House Rehabilitation Center in Santa Clara with 94 infections , Cedar Crest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 65 and two San Jose facilities : Mt .
Pleasant Nursing Center , also known as The Ridge Post-Acute , with 61 and Canyon Springs Post-Acute with 140 .
Twelve patients have died at Canyon Springs , according to state data .
That data also shows between one and 10 patients at Valley House and Mt .
Pleasant have died .
Workers sent into facilities faced issues immediately , such as a lack of protective equipment .
Some were using plastic bags on their hands , employees and union representatives told this news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care worker said then that workers were told patients would be separated from COVID-19-positive ones , “ but when they got there , there was yellow tape on the floor and plastic on doors — it was no separation.
” “ Nurses were told they would only be taking care of six to eight patients max .
When they walked in they were told they would take a full load of 28 patients , ” the worker told this news organization in mid-April , speaking on condition of anonymity because the worker didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the press .
The unions filed an “ imminent hazard complaint ” with Cal/OSHA on April 17 , noting that county workers sent to Canyon Springs Post-Acute nursing facility in San Jose found “ worrisome ” conditions , noting facility employees there wore only surgical masks instead of N95 respirators , and lacked other protective gear .
One facility worker was wearing a rain jacket and boots in lieu of a protective gown .
Those who did have gowns were not changing them or sufficiently sanitizing them between room visits , the county @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unclear what efforts the facility had made to get more protective equipment .
One county worker tasked with administering CPR in April to a patient said it appeared the resident had died “ some unknown yet apparently substantial length of time before staff responded—a reality that suggests that the staff at Canyon Springs were completely overwhelmed and underprepared to effectively manage the outbreak of COVID-19 at the facility , ” the complaint said .
Canyon Springs administrator Benton Collins disputed the claims , saying “ no staff member or healthcare worker has ever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and outside of the COVID-19 isolation wards.
” Another worker sent to The Ridge Post-Acute said when she arrived , she soon learned that the entire facility was presumed to have become infected , according to the unions ’ OSHA complaint .
She was pulled off the assignment by the following day .
The unions ’ more recent complaint to the Public Employment Relations Board also argues the county did not exhaust other alternatives before sending in its employees to the facilities .
“ Outrageously , the County simply suggested to the skilled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a registry service ( also known as “ travelers ” contractor ) , ” the claim states .
“ The operators said in a non-committal way that they would look into it.
” It also questions why the county did not explore evacuating COVID-19 positive nursing home residents to county-run hospitals , despite the hospitals having enough room .
That way , the complaint argues , the county employees could have treated the patients in a familiar setting and under the supervision of the county , subject to the rules and practices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ county placed a confidentiality agreement on county workers assigned to COVID-19 duties , the complaint says , and when SEIU 521 representatives sent a cease-and-desist notice over that confidentiality agreement , they were ignored .
“ In this pandemic , failures can cost lives , ” said Marilyn Mara , a public health nurse for Santa Clara County , in a written statement .
“ Our co-workers at the front-lines deserve to get sufficient personal protective equipment ( PPE ) and medical supplies .
For the safety of our workers and the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the assignments as disaster service workers with its employees and their unions .
”

SAN JOSE — Nurses sent by Santa Clara County to assist beleaguered nursing homes overwhelmed by COVID-19 outbreaks are pushing back, saying the county has failed to deliver on promises to keep them safe amid the pandemic.
Two unions representing county workers — the Registered Nurses Professional Association and SEIU Local 521 — together filed an unfair labor practice charge with the California State Public Employment Relations Board, alleging that Santa Clara County officials made “false assurances” that workers sent into the nursing facilities would treat only COVID-19-negative patients and have adequate supervision, training and access to personal protective equipment.
“Nothing could be further from the truth,” the charge states. It also claims that the county refused to give prior notice or an opportunity for the unions to bargain over the assignments, even after employees complained that being sent into the skilled nursing facilities exposed them to “life-threatening workplace hazards.”
Such behavior by the county is a violation of its obligations to workers laid out in the Meyers-Milias-Brown Act, a state law that sets labor management rules for governments and their workers, the unions’ claim states, adding that it applies even with the county’s state of emergency.
The unions did not say whether any county workers had contracted the virus or died after working in the homes.
County Executive Dr. Jeffrey Smith did not immediately comment on the allegations Wednesday.
The county began sending its employees — assigned as “disaster service workers”– to help at nursing facilities hard hit by the virus in early April.
Four nursing homes in the county have accounted for 355 infected patients and staff members, according to the county’s latest numbers. That includes Valley House Rehabilitation Center in Santa Clara with 89 cumulative infections, Cedar Crest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Sunnyvale with 65 and two San Jose facilities: Mt. Pleasant Nursing Center, also known as The Ridge Post-Acute, with 61 and Canyon Springs Post-Acute with 140.
Twelve patients have died at Canyon Springs, according to state data. That data also shows between one and 10 patients at Valley House and Mt. Pleasant have died.
Workers sent into facilities in early April faced issues immediately, such as a lack of protective equipment. Some used plastic bags on their hands, employees and union representatives told this news organization last month.
A county health care worker said at the time that workers were told patients would be separated from COVID-19-positive ones, “but when they got there, there was yellow tape on the floor and plastic on doors — no separation.”
The unions filed an “imminent hazard complaint” with Cal/OSHA on April 17, noting that county workers sent to Canyon Springs Post-Acute nursing facility in San Jose found “worrisome” conditions; that facility employees there wore only surgical masks instead of N95 respirators and lacked other protective gear. One facility worker was wearing a rain jacket and boots in lieu of a protective gown. Those who did have gowns were not changing them or sufficiently sanitizing them between room visits, the county workers said, noting that it was unclear what efforts the facility had made to get more protective equipment.
One county worker tasked with administering CPR in April to a patient said it appeared the resident had died “some unknown yet apparently substantial length of time before staff responded—which suggests that the staff at Canyon Springs were completely overwhelmed and underprepared to effectively manage the outbreak of COVID-19 at the facility,” according to the April 17 OSHA complaint, which is pending.
On Wednesday Canyon Springs administrator Benton Collins disputed the claims, saying “no staff member or healthcare worker has ever been without full protection when working in and outside of the COVID-19 isolation wards.”
The unions’ more recent complaint to the Public Employment Relations Board also argues the county did not exhaust other alternatives before sending in its employees to the facilities. It also questions why the county did not explore evacuating infected nursing home residents to county-run hospitals, despite the hospitals having enough room.
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“In this pandemic, failures can cost lives,” said Marilyn Mara, a public health nurse for Santa Clara County, in a written statement. “Our co-workers at the front-lines deserve to get sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies. For the safety of our workers and the public, the County must discuss the details of the assignments as disaster service workers with its employees and their unions.”
Staff writer Julia Prodis-Sulek contributed reporting.


mercurynews--2020-05-13--Coronavirus economy: Tesla job toll from furloughs tops 12,000

FREMONT — Tesla furloughs in Fremont and Lathrop topped the 12,000 level , official filings with the state labor agency show , revelations that arrived even as many workers for the maker of electric vehicles had begun to resume work this week .
Alameda County and Tesla struck a deal this week allowing operations to resume with formal government approval by next week , although a wide array of activity already appears to be underway at Tesla ’ s Fremont vehicle factory .
Despite the agreement , thousands of Tesla workers were off the job at some point in recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business shutdowns that were mandated by state and local government officials .
The extent of the economic toll from the furloughs was sketched out in two letters that the state ’ s Employment Development Department received from Tesla on May 12 .
“ We decided to furlough these employees as a result of COVID-19 , including a sudden and unpredictable impact on Tesla ’ s operations and employees , ” Valerie Capers Workman , a human resources executive for Tesla , stated in a notice to the EDD .
Palo Alto-based Tesla said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ decisions , played a role in the furloughs .
“ This has included the recent extensions of local and state ‘ shelter in place ’ orders across the country and the temporary suspension of production and deliveries in many locations , ” Tesla stated in its WARN notice .
About 11,100 workers were affected in two Fremont locations , including the vehicle factory and a nearby facility .
Another 156 employees were affected in Lathrop , where Tesla operates a distribution complex .
A dispute between Tesla ’ s top boss Elon Musk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a standoff .
At one point recently , Musk threatened to uproot Tesla from California and shift operations to other states , even suggesting that vehicle production would be among the economic refugees .
“ Assuming that business conditions improve , ” Tesla stated in the WARN notice , “ the company expects the actions it is taking are temporary and that some or all of these employees will be able to return to work in the future.
” Tesla also issued a 38-page return-to-work playbook so employees and managers can operate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ world has changed which means our processes need to adapt to ensure we continue to carry out our mission and serve our customers safely , ” Laurie Shelby , a Tesla vice president , stated in the guidelines .
“ The purpose of this playbook is to provide employees and the entire Tesla organization with safety protocols and steps to take to help keep yourself and the Tesla community safe .
”

FREMONT — Tesla furloughs in Fremont and Lathrop topped the 12,000 level, official filings with the state labor agency show, revelations that arrived even as many workers for the maker of electric vehicles had begun to resume work this week after coronavirus-spawned shutdowns.
Alameda County and Tesla struck a deal this week allowing operations to resume with formal government approval by next week, although a wide array of activity already appears to be underway at Tesla’s Fremont vehicle factory.
Despite the agreement, thousands of Tesla workers were off the job at some point in recent weeks in Fremont and Lathrop due to coronavirus-linked business shutdowns that were mandated by state and local government officials.
The extent of the economic toll from the furloughs was sketched out in two letters that the state’s Employment Development Department received from Tesla on May 12.
“We decided to furlough these employees as a result of COVID-19, including a sudden and unpredictable impact on Tesla’s operations and employees,” Valerie Capers Workman, a human resources executive for Tesla, stated in a notice to the EDD.
Palo Alto-based Tesla said the coronavirus, as well as government decisions, played a role in the furloughs.
“This has included the recent extensions of local and state ‘shelter in place’ orders across the country and the temporary suspension of production and deliveries in many locations,” Tesla stated in its WARN notice.
About 11,100 workers were affected in two Fremont locations, including the vehicle factory and a nearby facility.
Another 156 employees were affected in Lathrop, where Tesla operates a distribution complex.
In Fremont, workers in a job category called production associate were the hardest hit, with furloughs that totaled 5,850 positions, the WARN notice disclosed.
A dispute between Tesla’s top boss Elon Musk and Alameda County authorities deteriorated this week into a standoff. At one point recently, Musk threatened to uproot Tesla from California and shift operations to other states, even suggesting that vehicle production would be among the economic refugees.
Ultimately, Tesla and Alameda County resolved their differences.
“Assuming that business conditions improve,” Tesla stated in the WARN notice, “the company expects the actions it is taking are temporary and that some or all of these employees will be able to return to work in the future.”
Tesla also issued a 38-page return-to-work playbook so employees and managers can operate safely and stay healthy.
“The world has changed which means our processes need to adapt to ensure we continue to carry out our mission and serve our customers safely,” Laurie Shelby, a Tesla vice president, stated in the guidelines. “The purpose of this playbook is to provide employees and the entire Tesla organization with safety protocols and steps to take to help keep yourself and the Tesla community safe.”