mercurynews--2020-10-14--The biggest election fraud story you haven’t heard about

President Donald Trump talks incessantly about the dangers of mail-in balloting in 2020 — even as what he cites as examples of this alleged fraud are almost always explained away as simple human error .
Which brings me to California and the California Republican Party , in particular .
In at least three counties in the state — Fresno , Los Angeles and Orange — unofficial ballot drop boxes have popped up promising , wrongly , that they are “ authorized ” places where people can deposit their mail-in votes .
The California Republican Party is behind the effort , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CNN on Monday amounts to an opportunity for “ friends , family , and patrons to drop off their ballot with someone they know and trust.
” Except that it doesn ’ t work that way under California election law .
You can ’ t just cut a hole in a cardboard box , write “ authorized ” on it and say that it ’ s totally cool for voters to drop their ballots in it .
Why not ?
Well , security , mostly .
Who controls the box once votes — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deposited in it ?
How can we be sure that every vote put into one of these unauthorized boxes is counted ?
The unofficial boxes lack a “ chain of custody and we don ’ t have the requirements or regulations for these fake drop boxes as you do for the official drop boxes , ” California Secretary of State Alex Padilla , a Democrat , told CNN ’ s Chris Cuomo on Monday night .
• Election drop boxes : Here are 207 places to safely deliver your ballot in the Bay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with three weeks to go • As attacks on Biden sputter , Trump turns his fire on Harris So why are Republicans doing this ?
Because they believe that it is a reasonable counter to a law passed in 2016 in California that allows a third party to collect ballots and turn them in at an authorized voting location .
( Democrats call this “ ballot collection ” ; President Trump calls it “ ballot harvesting.
” ) The difference , of course , is that the ballot collection system has all sorts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law to avoid fraud .
What the California GOP is doing has none of that .
: For all of Trump ’ s wild charges about election rigging and vote-by-mail fraud being perpetrated by Democrats , it ’ s his own party in California that is actively skirting the laws .

President Donald Trump talks incessantly about the dangers of mail-in balloting in 2020 — even as what he cites as examples of this alleged fraud are almost always explained away as simple human error.
Which brings me to California and the California Republican Party, in particular.
In at least three counties in the state — Fresno, Los Angeles and Orange — unofficial ballot drop boxes have popped up promising, wrongly, that they are “authorized” places where people can deposit their mail-in votes.
The California Republican Party is behind the effort, which a spokesman for the organization told CNN on Monday amounts to an opportunity for “friends, family, and patrons to drop off their ballot with someone they know and trust.”
Except that it doesn’t work that way under California election law. You can’t just cut a hole in a cardboard box, write “authorized” on it and say that it’s totally cool for voters to drop their ballots in it.
Why not? Well, security, mostly. Who controls the box once votes — or even a single vote — is deposited in it? How can we be sure that every vote put into one of these unauthorized boxes is counted?
The unofficial boxes lack a “chain of custody and we don’t have the requirements or regulations for these fake drop boxes as you do for the official drop boxes,” California Secretary of State Alex Padilla, a Democrat, told CNN’s Chris Cuomo on Monday night.
Which, yeah, makes sense.
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Judge Chutkan: Trump’s right to free speech ‘not absolute’ Election | A conservative case for disqualifying Donald Trump in 2024 So why are Republicans doing this? Because they believe that it is a reasonable counter to a law passed in 2016 in California that allows a third party to collect ballots and turn them in at an authorized voting location. (Democrats call this “ballot collection”; President Trump calls it “ballot harvesting.”)
The difference, of course, is that the ballot collection system has all sorts of safeguards and checks written into the law to avoid fraud. What the California GOP is doing has none of that.
The Point : For all of Trump’s wild charges about election rigging and vote-by-mail fraud being perpetrated by Democrats, it’s his own party in California that is actively skirting the laws.
The-CNN-Wire
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mercurynews--2020-10-14--Bay Area drug bust nabs an estimated $1 million worth of heroin

The Vallejo Police Department recovered 22 kilograms of heroin on Sept. 27 after investigating a suspicious vehicle on the 1000 @ @ @ @ @ , a spokesperson for the department said in a statement this week .
• Two @ @ @ @ @ East Bay murder ordered by pot trafficker known as ‘ Hitler ’ • Marijuana valued @ @ @ @ @ in raid of illegal California grow operation • East Bay man gets five years for @ @ @ @ @ link him to saddle-drug-smuggling scheme Officers approached the driver of the car in a parking @ @ @ @ @ was unlicensed and on parole from Nevada .
K-9 unit “ Loki ” went to @ @ @ @ @ presence of a controlled substance , police said .
They estimated the heroin could have @ @ @ @ @ in street value .
The suspect ’ s name has not been released and no @ @ @ @ @ this time .

The Vallejo Police Department recovered 22 kilograms of heroin on Sept. 27 after investigating a suspicious vehicle on the 1000 block of Admiral Callaghan Lane, a spokesperson for the department said in a statement this week.
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Massachusetts pot boss apologizes as state’s weed sales hit all-time high Crime and Public Safety | Redwood City drug deal ends in double shooting Officers approached the driver of the car in a parking lot and discovered that he was unlicensed and on parole from Nevada. K-9 unit “Loki” went to work and signaled for the presence of a controlled substance, police said. They estimated the heroin could have up to $1 million in street value.
The suspect’s name has not been released and no further information is available at this time.
The investigation is ongoing.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--San Rafael police: Five arrested in connection with toppling Junipero Serra statue

Five people accused of felony vandalism were arrested Monday for defacing and tearing down the statue of a Spanish missionary outside of St. Raphael Church in downtown San Rafael , police said .
According to the San Rafael Police Department , a small group of protesters covered the statue of Junipero Serra with paint before tying straps around it and pulling it down .
Serra was an 18th-century Catholic priest who founded nine of California ’ s missions .
The incident happened during a demonstration for Indigenous Peoples Day — the same day as the federally recognized Columbus Day holiday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ treatment of Native Americans .
The protest of more than 40 people began at 5 p.m. at the church at 1104 Fifth Ave. , according to police Sgt .
Justin Graham .
Protest organizers , who said they were members of the Coast Miwok group , said Serra contributed to the destruction of Native American cultures .
Police learned about the planned demonstration a week earlier through social media .
The Archdiocese of San Francisco had asked police to use de-escalation techniques and to minimize interactions that could lead to use of force @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep the incident from escalating , it was a mutual decision that police would observe the demonstration and not intervene , Graham said .
“ We decided not to get directly involved or interact with the demonstration because we did not want to inflame or escalate the situation , ” Graham said .
“ If there was a violent altercation , a physical fight , we would have intervened , no question.
” About 30 minutes into the protest , a small group of demonstrators removed protective tape that was covering the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
The demonstrators also covered the statue with spray paint .
The word “ rape ” was spray-painted on the base .
Protesters tied colored straps around the neck of the statue and pulled it down , breaking it at the ankles .
Once the demonstrators left the property , police contacted five suspects who they believed to be responsible for the vandalism and detained them .
They were issued citations and released at the scene .
Cited were Oakland residents Ines Shiam Gardilcic , 40 , and Victoria Eva Montanopena , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Novato ; Mayorgi Nadeska Delgadillo , 36 , of San Rafael ; and Moira Cribben Van de Walker , 25 of San Anselmo .
The incident has been referred to the Marin County District Attorney ’ s Office for review .
Lucina Vidauri , an organizer for the rally , declined to comment on Tuesday .
Church administrators deferred to the Archdiocese of San Francisco .
Mike Brown , a spokesman for the archdiocese , said Monday church leaders had not been asked by the protesters to take down the statue prior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the Rev .
Salvatore Cordileone , the Archbishop of San Francisco , denounced the vandalism .
“ We can not allow a small unelected group of lawbreakers to decide what sacred symbols we Catholics or other believers may display and use to foster our faith , ” he said .
“ This must stop.
” Cordileone said Serra is the wrong target for those who want to make a statement about the suffering of Native Americans .
“ Fr .
Serra and his fellow Franciscans renounced all worldly pursuits to give their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so protected them from the abuses of their fellow Spaniards , ” he said .
“ To look to Fr .
Serra as the icon of oppression of the Indians is akin to doing the same with Abraham Lincoln and the institution of slavery in the United States.
” Robbie Powelson , a social activist who leads the Tam Equity Campaign and is a candidate for Marin Community College District board , attended the rally to support the local Coast Miwok , he said .
“ Given the historical period we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like , ” Powelson said of the vandalism .
“ This is healing after all the violence that has happened and is continuing to happen .
Healing is messy.
” City Manager Jim Schutz declined to comment , instead deferring to a written statement issued by the city on Tuesday .
“ During this incident and the subsequent destruction of the statue , it was considered that the statue could be replaced or repaired and that the importance of using sound judgment and de-escalation techniques was paramount to preventing physical interactions between officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
San Rafael Mayor Gary Phillips said he was initially shocked to learn that police didn ’ t intercede .
But after learning of the agreement between church leaders and police , he said he felt the officers handled the situation “ appropriately.
” “ I think these circumstances resulted in a better outcome , ” he said .
“ No one was hurt .
We have their names.
” Phillips said he wished the protesters “ had gone to the local church to say they had these concerns and come to some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group of about 100 people gathered outside the church in response to the incident on Monday .
The demonstration , which included prayers , was organized by the Archdiocese of San Francisco , according to Brown .

Five people accused of felony vandalism were arrested Monday for defacing and tearing down the statue of a Spanish missionary outside of St. Raphael Church in downtown San Rafael, police said.
According to the San Rafael Police Department, a small group of protesters covered the statue of Junipero Serra with paint before tying straps around it and pulling it down. Serra was an 18th-century Catholic priest who founded nine of California’s missions.
The incident happened during a demonstration for Indigenous Peoples Day — the same day as the federally recognized Columbus Day holiday — to protest against the colonization and treatment of Native Americans.
The protest of more than 40 people began at 5 p.m. at the church at 1104 Fifth Ave., according to police Sgt. Justin Graham.
Protest organizers, who said they were members of the Coast Miwok group, said Serra contributed to the destruction of Native American cultures.
Police learned about the planned demonstration a week earlier through social media. The Archdiocese of San Francisco had asked police to use de-escalation techniques and to minimize interactions that could lead to use of force, Graham said.
In an effort to keep the incident from escalating, it was a mutual decision that police would observe the demonstration and not intervene, Graham said.
“We decided not to get directly involved or interact with the demonstration because we did not want to inflame or escalate the situation,” Graham said. “If there was a violent altercation, a physical fight, we would have intervened, no question.”
About 30 minutes into the protest, a small group of demonstrators removed protective tape that was covering the Serra statue and threw red paint on it. The demonstrators also covered the statue with spray paint. The word “rape” was spray-painted on the base.
Protesters tied colored straps around the neck of the statue and pulled it down, breaking it at the ankles.
Once the demonstrators left the property, police contacted five suspects who they believed to be responsible for the vandalism and detained them. They were issued citations and released at the scene.
Cited were Oakland residents Ines Shiam Gardilcic, 40, and Victoria Eva Montanopena, 29; Melissa Aguilar, 36, of Novato; Mayorgi Nadeska Delgadillo, 36, of San Rafael; and Moira Cribben Van de Walker, 25 of San Anselmo. The incident has been referred to the Marin County District Attorney’s Office for review.
Lucina Vidauri, an organizer for the rally, declined to comment on Tuesday.
Church administrators deferred to the Archdiocese of San Francisco. Mike Brown, a spokesman for the archdiocese, said Monday church leaders had not been asked by the protesters to take down the statue prior to the demonstration.
In a statement, the Rev. Salvatore Cordileone, the Archbishop of San Francisco, denounced the vandalism.
“We cannot allow a small unelected group of lawbreakers to decide what sacred symbols we Catholics or other believers may display and use to foster our faith,” he said. “This must stop.”
Cordileone said Serra is the wrong target for those who want to make a statement about the suffering of Native Americans.
“Fr. Serra and his fellow Franciscans renounced all worldly pursuits to give their lives to serving the native peoples and so protected them from the abuses of their fellow Spaniards,” he said. “To look to Fr. Serra as the icon of oppression of the Indians is akin to doing the same with Abraham Lincoln and the institution of slavery in the United States.”
Robbie Powelson, a social activist who leads the Tam Equity Campaign and is a candidate for Marin Community College District board, attended the rally to support the local Coast Miwok, he said.
“Given the historical period we’re in, this is what healing looks like,” Powelson said of the vandalism. “This is healing after all the violence that has happened and is continuing to happen. Healing is messy.”
City Manager Jim Schutz declined to comment, instead deferring to a written statement issued by the city on Tuesday.
“During this incident and the subsequent destruction of the statue, it was considered that the statue could be replaced or repaired and that the importance of using sound judgment and de-escalation techniques was paramount to preventing physical interactions between officers and protestors,” the statement said.
San Rafael Mayor Gary Phillips said he was initially shocked to learn that police didn’t intercede. But after learning of the agreement between church leaders and police, he said he felt the officers handled the situation “appropriately.”
“I think these circumstances resulted in a better outcome,” he said. “No one was hurt. We have their names.”
Phillips said he wished the protesters “had gone to the local church to say they had these concerns and come to some resolution.”
On Tuesday night, a group of about 100 people gathered outside the church in response to the incident on Monday. The demonstration, which included prayers, was organized by the Archdiocese of San Francisco, according to Brown.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--Editorial: Fremont mayor, council picks have needed financial acumen

Click here for a complete list of our election recommendations .
Fremont is weathering the pandemic economic downturn better than many cities , in part because of its strong tax revenue growth in recent years and city leaders ’ smart move last year to increase budget reserves .
But the brighter outlook is only relative to other local governments .
Fremont officials were forced to cut expenditures in the city ’ s current fiscal year by about 8 % , which they did largely by deferring street , parks and building maintenance .
And projections show they will have to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So tough decisions still lie ahead for the mayor and City Council , which means voters should look for candidates who best understand municipal finances , will maintain the current cautious fiscal approach and will bring thoughtful perspectives to the city ’ s other simmering issues , including future funding for police .
Voters should reelect Mayor Lily Mei .
And , as the city in the Nov. 3 election completes its transition to district elections , voters in District 5 should choose Councilman Raj Salwan and those in District 6 should elect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fiscal challenges ahead , they must not lose track of the city ’ s huge and rapidly growing retirement debt , which currently stands at about $ 502 million , about 12 % more than when we last checked two years ago .
That ’ s equal to about five years of city payroll .
City officials like to brag about the additional payments they have started making to reduce the debt .
Unfortunately , the amount , $ 3.1 million for the current fiscal year , will hardly make a dent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most cities are doing , it ’ s not enough to start bragging .
We hope that in the Bay Area ’ s fourth-most-populated city , with higher property and sales tax revenues than most , they make more progress in the next two years paying down that debt .
Meanwhile , two of the three election choices are clear , while the District 6 race is a tougher choice : Mei is the only candidate we heard from who has a solid handle on the city ’ s challenges and finances .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the city ’ s term limits , final term as mayor .
Clear and articulate , showing good leadership , Mei deserves that second term .
We talked with four of the six candidates running for mayor .
Marlene Santilli and Chris Hampton never responded .
The other three — Vik Bajwa Singh , Naz Mahika Khan and Justin Sha — were no match for Mei .
Salwan , a veterinarian and former planning commissioner seeking his second full term , has helped prepare the city for and shepherd it through these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s budget and brings a measured approach to policy issues .
Challenger Dolev Gandler is a 20-year-old aerospace engineering student who decided to run because he was unhappy with a road-sealing project on his street .
While he is to be commended for getting involved , he has a lot to learn about city government and finances .
Chugh , a corporate real estate adviser , has served 12 years on the city ’ s planning and economic development commissions .
That experience showed as he discussed city issues .
Of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our interview , he had the best handle on city finances .
And he ’ s clear that , with a police force that ’ s already small relative to the size of the city , the discussion should not be around cutting funding , but rather determining the type of policing city residents want .
This is the only one of the three races where there is more than one solid candidate .
Planning Commissioner Charles Liu , who founded a solar equipment manufacturing firm in Fremont , is a solid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some of the details of the city ’ s retirement debt .

Click here for a complete list of our election recommendations.
Fremont is weathering the pandemic economic downturn better than many cities, in part because of its strong tax revenue growth in recent years and city leaders’ smart move last year to increase budget reserves.
But the brighter outlook is only relative to other local governments. Fremont officials were forced to cut expenditures in the city’s current fiscal year by about 8%, which they did largely by deferring street, parks and building maintenance. And projections show they will have to trim another 7% next year.
So tough decisions still lie ahead for the mayor and City Council, which means voters should look for candidates who best understand municipal finances, will maintain the current cautious fiscal approach and will bring thoughtful perspectives to the city’s other simmering issues, including future funding for police.
Voters should reelect Mayor Lily Mei. And, as the city in the Nov. 3 election completes its transition to district elections, voters in District 5 should choose Councilman Raj Salwan and those in District 6 should elect Yogi Chugh.
As the council confronts the fiscal challenges ahead, they must not lose track of the city’s huge and rapidly growing retirement debt, which currently stands at about $502 million, about 12% more than when we last checked two years ago. That’s equal to about five years of city payroll.
City officials like to brag about the additional payments they have started making to reduce the debt. Unfortunately, the amount, $3.1 million for the current fiscal year, will hardly make a dent. While it’s more than most cities are doing, it’s not enough to start bragging.
We hope that in the Bay Area’s fourth-most-populated city, with higher property and sales tax revenues than most, they make more progress in the next two years paying down that debt.
Meanwhile, two of the three election choices are clear, while the District 6 race is a tougher choice:
Mayor – Lily Mei
Mei is the only candidate we heard from who has a solid handle on the city’s challenges and finances. She is seeking her second, and under the city’s term limits, final term as mayor. Clear and articulate, showing good leadership, Mei deserves that second term.
We talked with four of the six candidates running for mayor. Marlene Santilli and Chris Hampton never responded. The other three — Vik Bajwa Singh, Naz Mahika Khan and Justin Sha — were no match for Mei.
District 5 – Raj Salwan
Salwan, a veterinarian and former planning commissioner seeking his second full term, has helped prepare the city for and shepherd it through these fiscally challenging times. He understands Fremont’s budget and brings a measured approach to policy issues.
Challenger Dolev Gandler is a 20-year-old aerospace engineering student who decided to run because he was unhappy with a road-sealing project on his street. While he is to be commended for getting involved, he has a lot to learn about city government and finances.
District 6 – Yogi Chugh
Chugh, a corporate real estate adviser, has served 12 years on the city’s planning and economic development commissions. That experience showed as he discussed city issues.
Of the six candidates, three of whom participated in our interview, he had the best handle on city finances. And he’s clear that, with a police force that’s already small relative to the size of the city, the discussion should not be around cutting funding, but rather determining the type of policing city residents want.
This is the only one of the three races where there is more than one solid candidate. Planning Commissioner Charles Liu, who founded a solar equipment manufacturing firm in Fremont, is a solid candidate, but not as strong on some of the details of the city’s retirement debt.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--Editorial: An easy call — reelect Oakland City Attorney Barbara Parker

Oakland voters have a choice in the race for city attorney between a highly respected incumbent and an underqualified challenger who lacks the legal and managerial experience for the job .
It ’ s not a close call .
Barbara Parker deserves reelection in the Nov. 3 election .
Parker , one of only about a dozen Black women to graduate from Harvard Law School in 1975 , brings 29 years ’ experience in the City Attorney ’ s Office , where she has been in charge since 2011 .
She leads a team of 38 lawyers known for candid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting to protect Oakland ’ s legal interests .
They have , for example , fought the Golden State Warriors ’ attempt to stiff the city out of $ 49 million , Wells Fargo ’ s allegedly discriminatory mortgage lending practices , a developer ’ s push to transport coal through Oakland , and Monsanto ’ s contamination of waterways .
Parker ’ s work , driven by law rather than politics , is not always popular , which explains why some labor unions and a disgruntled developer back efforts to unseat her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the eight City Council members and the city ’ s firefighters are backing her .
Her opponent , Eli Ferran , has no managerial experience and , in 12 years in the City Attorney ’ s Office , was never promoted and generally not involved with the highly challenging legal issues .
Parker disappointed when she was among city officials who regularly took free tickets provided the city for Oakland Coliseum events .
She says she has since amended her practice so that she no longer uses the tickets .
Rather , like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are evenly distributed to people in her office and to community groups .
All city officials should stop taking free tickets .
That said , those concerns are not sufficient reason to unseat Parker , especially when her opponent is unprepared for the job .
Voters should reelect Parker .

Click here for a complete list of our election recommendations.
Oakland voters have a choice in the race for city attorney between a highly respected incumbent and an underqualified challenger who lacks the legal and managerial experience for the job.
It’s not a close call. Barbara Parker deserves reelection in the Nov. 3 election.
Parker, one of only about a dozen Black women to graduate from Harvard Law School in 1975, brings 29 years’ experience in the City Attorney’s Office, where she has been in charge since 2011. She leads a team of 38 lawyers known for candid legal advice to city officials and aggressively fighting to protect Oakland’s legal interests.
They have, for example, fought the Golden State Warriors’ attempt to stiff the city out of $49 million, Wells Fargo’s allegedly discriminatory mortgage lending practices, a developer’s push to transport coal through Oakland, and Monsanto’s contamination of waterways.
Parker’s work, driven by law rather than politics, is not always popular, which explains why some labor unions and a disgruntled developer back efforts to unseat her. But the mayor, five of the eight City Council members and the city’s firefighters are backing her.
Her opponent, Eli Ferran, has no managerial experience and, in 12 years in the City Attorney’s Office, was never promoted and generally not involved with the highly challenging legal issues.
Parker disappointed when she was among city officials who regularly took free tickets provided the city for Oakland Coliseum events. She says she has since amended her practice so that she no longer uses the tickets. Rather, like in some other departments, the tickets are evenly distributed to people in her office and to community groups. All city officials should stop taking free tickets.
That said, those concerns are not sufficient reason to unseat Parker, especially when her opponent is unprepared for the job. Voters should reelect Parker.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--Sponsored: Home in coveted Bryan Ranch surrounded by Mt. Diablo and walking distance to hiking, biki

Sponsored: Home in coveted Bryan Ranch surrounded by Mt. Diablo and walking distance to hiking, biking trails

Discover your private sanctuary at the end of Alamo ’ s coveted Bryan Ranch and come home to the tranquility of a sprawling one-third-acre property that backs up to open space .
More than 2,700 square feet of light-filled , single-level living space at 3442 Stone Valley Road is updated with contemporary finishes and features .
It showcases four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms .
Several rooms also connect seamlessly to fabulous private outdoor venues .
Bordered by towering redwoods , the level park-style backyard offers plenty of room to entertain , play and enjoy time off on the sprawling patio @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and in the renovated pool and spa .
Bryan Ranch , an exclusive enclave of custom homes , sits at the base of Mount Diablo , surrounded by gorgeous oak-studded hillsides and access to hiking trails .
The peaceful neighborhoods are home to some of the Tri-Valley ’ s most-sought-after homes , many of which sit on properties that range from one-third of an acre to an acre .
Wrapped in a rural ambience , Bryan Ranch is also conveniently close to many shopping and dining options in the nearby Alamo Plaza and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Interstate 680 , downtown Walnut Creek , BART , and commute routes into Silicon Valley and San Francisco .
Top-rated schools in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District are all within about a mile .
A front courtyard garden creates an inviting entry .
Behind the custom front door and sidelights adorned with decorative iron detailing is an open floor plan featuring hardwood floors , vaulted ceilings , dual-pane Andersen and Pella windows and doors , recessed and gallery lighting , a freshly painted interior , custom built-ins , crown molding in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ systems in the secondary bedroom closets .
The spacious living and adjoining dining room feature a vaulted ceiling and a gas fireplace with a chic travertine surround .
French doors open to connect to the outdoor space .
Expanded and updated , the chef ’ s eat-in kitchen has granite counters with a decorative tile backsplash and an oversize island with pendant lighting .
Custom maple cabinetry with stylish brushed nickel rods includes special spice drawers and pullout shelves .
Enjoy the updated appliances , including a Sub-Zero refrigerator , dual Dacor oven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ microwave , and dual Miele dishwashers .
The casual dining nook also has a sliding door access to the side and back yards , pool , spa and basketball court .
Custom maple cabinetry with wine storage for about 130 bottles and a granite buffet counter is a beautiful addition to the adjoining family room .
This spacious room , also with a vaulted ceiling , features custom built-in cabinetry on either side of the gas fireplace with a slate tile surround and a raised hearth .
Open the sliding glass door to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the backyard , pool , and spa .
The master bedroom is behind a double-door entry .
This room also has a French door access to the backyard and is updated with a raised vaulted exposed beam ceiling .
The room was also expanded to include a fabulous walk-in StudioBecker closet behind sliding frosted glass doors .
Handcrafted in Germany , custom built-ins include pull-down racks , shoe shelves , drawers , and a spiral rod to create the ultimate modern closet organization .
A contemporary and spa-style master bathroom has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ floors and LED lighting at the base of the dual-sink vanity .
There is an oversize shower with dual showerheads , and a recirculating heated bathtub means the water will never cool down during a long , luxurious soak .
Up/down Roman shades allow a peek at the backyard gardens .
Three additional bedrooms have sliding mirrored closet doors and feature from a built-in window seat to a courtyard view .
These rooms share a completely remodeled full bathroom appointed with a dual-sink marble-topped vanity , new fixtures , a porcelain tile floor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room is updated with a chic stainless steel vessel sink on a glass-topped vanity with a wall-mounted faucet and a slate tile floor .
Additional features include a three-car garage with more than 500 square feet of overhead storage , a utility sink and workbench .
The home also has a laundry room with a sink and maple cabinetry , a whole house fan , an updated dual-zone Carrier HVAC system , a recently updated water heater , and new fencing .
The front yard landscaping has been recently updated with fresh sod @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
All the doors and windows are wired with a security alarm .
All the closets have cedar flooring and a pull-down staircase leads to additional attic storage space .
Price : $ 1,749,000 Where : 3442 Stone Valley Road , Alamo .
Shown by appointment only .
Listing agent : Better Homes Realty .
Monique Martin , DRE # 00512700 .
925-998-0550. www.MoniqueMartin.com .
Monique @ MoniqueMartin.com

Discover your private sanctuary at the end of Alamo’s coveted Bryan Ranch and come home to the tranquility of a sprawling one-third-acre property that backs up to open space.
More than 2,700 square feet of light-filled, single-level living space at 3442 Stone Valley Road is updated with contemporary finishes and features. It showcases four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. Several rooms also connect seamlessly to fabulous private outdoor venues. Bordered by towering redwoods, the level park-style backyard offers plenty of room to entertain, play and enjoy time off on the sprawling patio, sports court, lawn, gardens and in the renovated pool and spa.
Bryan Ranch, an exclusive enclave of custom homes, sits at the base of Mount Diablo, surrounded by gorgeous oak-studded hillsides and access to hiking trails. The peaceful neighborhoods are home to some of the Tri-Valley’s most-sought-after homes, many of which sit on properties that range from one-third of an acre to an acre. Wrapped in a rural ambience, Bryan Ranch is also conveniently close to many shopping and dining options in the nearby Alamo Plaza and downtown Danville. Find easy access to Interstate 680, downtown Walnut Creek, BART, and commute routes into Silicon Valley and San Francisco. Top-rated schools in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District are all within about a mile.
A front courtyard garden creates an inviting entry. Behind the custom front door and sidelights adorned with decorative iron detailing is an open floor plan featuring hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, dual-pane Andersen and Pella windows and doors, recessed and gallery lighting, a freshly painted interior, custom built-ins, crown molding in the bedrooms, and complete Elfa organizing systems in the secondary bedroom closets.
The spacious living and adjoining dining room feature a vaulted ceiling and a gas fireplace with a chic travertine surround. French doors open to connect to the outdoor space.
Expanded and updated, the chef’s eat-in kitchen has granite counters with a decorative tile backsplash and an oversize island with pendant lighting.
Custom maple cabinetry with stylish brushed nickel rods includes special spice drawers and pullout shelves. Enjoy the updated appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, dual Dacor oven, and a five-burner cooktop, GE microwave, and dual Miele dishwashers. The casual dining nook also has a sliding door access to the side and back yards, pool, spa and basketball court.
Custom maple cabinetry with wine storage for about 130 bottles and a granite buffet counter is a beautiful addition to the adjoining family room. This spacious room, also with a vaulted ceiling, features custom built-in cabinetry on either side of the gas fireplace with a slate tile surround and a raised hearth. Open the sliding glass door to a private patio and garden with access to the backyard, pool, and spa.
The master bedroom is behind a double-door entry. This room also has a French door access to the backyard and is updated with a raised vaulted exposed beam ceiling. The room was also expanded to include a fabulous walk-in StudioBecker closet behind sliding frosted glass doors. Handcrafted in Germany, custom built-ins include pull-down racks, shoe shelves, drawers, and a spiral rod to create the ultimate modern closet organization.
A contemporary and spa-style master bathroom has a double pocket-door entry, radiant-heated slate tile floors and LED lighting at the base of the dual-sink vanity. There is an oversize shower with dual showerheads, and a recirculating heated bathtub means the water will never cool down during a long, luxurious soak. Up/down Roman shades allow a peek at the backyard gardens.
Three additional bedrooms have sliding mirrored closet doors and feature from a built-in window seat to a courtyard view. These rooms share a completely remodeled full bathroom appointed with a dual-sink marble-topped vanity, new fixtures, a porcelain tile floor and a tub/shower combination.
A powder room is updated with a chic stainless steel vessel sink on a glass-topped vanity with a wall-mounted faucet and a slate tile floor.
Additional features include a three-car garage with more than 500 square feet of overhead storage, a utility sink and workbench.
The home also has a laundry room with a sink and maple cabinetry, a whole house fan, an updated dual-zone Carrier HVAC system, a recently updated water heater, and new fencing.
The front yard landscaping has been recently updated with fresh sod and lush foliage along the garden beds. All the doors and windows are wired with a security alarm. All the closets have cedar flooring and a pull-down staircase leads to additional attic storage space.
Price: $1,749,000
Where: 3442 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. Shown by appointment only.
Listing agent: Better Homes Realty. Monique Martin, DRE#00512700. 925-998-0550. www.MoniqueMartin.com. Monique@MoniqueMartin.com


mercurynews--2020-10-14--Sponsored: Walk to cafes and shops from this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Menlo Park home with a charming y

Sponsored: Walk to cafes and shops from this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom Menlo Park home with a charming yard, built-ins and flexible space

It ’ s charming , updated , and located in a fabulous neighborhood within walking distance to shops , cafes , and near some of the best schools in the Bay Area .
The Willows in Menlo Park is filled with bungalows and Craftsman-style homes and borders Palo Alto ’ s prestigious Crescent Park .
Within 2 miles of Stanford University and the thriving University Avenue business district , it also has easy access to Highway 101 , the Dumbarton Bridge , and Silicon Valley .
The Willows neighborhood is a thriving community where homeowners take pride in their properties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ updated while retaining the quaintness of their classic detailing and style .
Enter the enchanting front garden under a romantic arch of pomegranate tree branches , a sign of good health and prosperity , and breathe in the sweet fragrance of orange blossoms at 1970 Menalto Ave .
Multiple fruit trees , including fig , orange , red hibiscus , and sweet olive , are scattered along the lawn with nearby beds of rosemary , lemon balm , and goji berry .
This is what home is supposed to feel like .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1,300 square feet of living space and features hardwood floors , crown molding , multiple built-ins , and flexible space to create home offices and workstations .
There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms .
The kitchen has been updated with granite counters , a peninsula island/breakfast bar with pendant lighting , an LG refrigerator , a KitchenAid dishwasher , a stainless sink , and stylish cabinetry .
A five-stage reverse osmosis water filtration system is located at the kitchen sink .
Enjoy an evening meal with a view of the front gardens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ surround and a carved mantel anchors the living room .
Two skylights allow natural light to illuminate this spacious room that also features built-ins on either side of the fireplace .
A niche with built-in shelves on two sides offers an ideal office space with a front-facing picture window .
Enjoy the garden view and the scent of orange blossoms infusing the air .
Two bedrooms in one wing of the home include the master with a front-facing window and a large closet with built-in shelving .
A second bedroom also has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ updated bathroom with a single-sink vanity , a tub/shower combination and a linen closet space .
A guest room or home office is located in the opposite wing near a full updated bathroom with a tile floor , single-sink vanity and a glass-enclosed tub/shower combination .
A stacked GE washer and dryer are also in this area .
Enjoy access to an expansive covered deck with a pitched roof that is adjacent to a flagstone patio .
This “ outdoor ” room is ideal for gatherings , alfresco dining or a safe play @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with a PG & E Net Meter account allow the homeowner to sell energy to PG & E at the peak-time rates and buy back at a non-peak-time rate .
The water service from the community well , the O ’ Connor Tract Co-operative Water Company , charges an annual bill based on the parcel .
This is substantially less than the water bill for comparable properties .
There is also a water softening system for the well water .
Additional features include a tankless water heater instant hot water .
Other foliage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with high-end bamboo , and includes crabapple , cherry blossoms , honeysuckle , and white and Pakistan mulberry .
The home is within 3 miles to award-winning schools , including about a quarter-mile to Laurel Elementary , 3 miles from Hillview Middle , and about 1.5 miles to Menlo/Atherton High .
Price : $ 1,595,000 Where : 1970 Menalto Ave. , Menlo Park Website : www.1970Menalto.com Easy to show by appointment after PEAD form sent to listing agent .
Listing agent : Intero .
James Shin , DRE # 01358693 , 650-862-7332 , @ @ @ @ @ @

It’s charming, updated, and located in a fabulous neighborhood within walking distance to shops, cafes, and near some of the best schools in the Bay Area.
The Willows in Menlo Park is filled with bungalows and Craftsman-style homes and borders Palo Alto’s prestigious Crescent Park.
Within 2 miles of Stanford University and the thriving University Avenue business district, it also has easy access to Highway 101, the Dumbarton Bridge, and Silicon Valley.
The Willows neighborhood is a thriving community where homeowners take pride in their properties, many of which have been thoughtfully updated while retaining the quaintness of their classic detailing and style.
Enter the enchanting front garden under a romantic arch of pomegranate tree branches, a sign of good health and prosperity, and breathe in the sweet fragrance of orange blossoms at 1970 Menalto Ave. Multiple fruit trees, including fig, orange, red hibiscus, and sweet olive, are scattered along the lawn with nearby beds of rosemary, lemon balm, and goji berry.
This is what home is supposed to feel like.
A warm and inviting light-filled interior showcases almost 1,300 square feet of living space and features hardwood floors, crown molding, multiple built-ins, and flexible space to create home offices and workstations.
Additional features include owned solar panels, freshly painted rooms, dual-pane windows, a shared well, a gated driveway entry and central air conditioning.
There are three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The kitchen has been updated with granite counters, a peninsula island/breakfast bar with pendant lighting, an LG refrigerator, a KitchenAid dishwasher, a stainless sink, and stylish cabinetry. A five-stage reverse osmosis water filtration system is located at the kitchen sink. Enjoy an evening meal with a view of the front gardens.
A wood-burning fireplace with a travertine surround and a carved mantel anchors the living room. Two skylights allow natural light to illuminate this spacious room that also features built-ins on either side of the fireplace.
A niche with built-in shelves on two sides offers an ideal office space with a front-facing picture window. Enjoy the garden view and the scent of orange blossoms infusing the air.
Two bedrooms in one wing of the home include the master with a front-facing window and a large closet with built-in shelving. A second bedroom also has a large closet. These rooms share an updated bathroom with a single-sink vanity, a tub/shower combination and a linen closet space.
A guest room or home office is located in the opposite wing near a full updated bathroom with a tile floor, single-sink vanity and a glass-enclosed tub/shower combination. A stacked GE washer and dryer are also in this area.
Enjoy access to an expansive covered deck with a pitched roof that is adjacent to a flagstone patio. This “outdoor” room is ideal for gatherings, alfresco dining or a safe play area.
The fully owned solar panels with a PG&E Net Meter account allow the homeowner to sell energy to PG&E at the peak-time rates and buy back at a non-peak-time rate.
The water service from the community well, the O’Connor Tract Co-operative Water Company, charges an annual bill based on the parcel. This is substantially less than the water bill for comparable properties. There is also a water softening system for the well water.
Additional features include a tankless water heater instant hot water. Other foliage borders the long gated side driveway lined with high-end bamboo, and includes crabapple, cherry blossoms, honeysuckle, and white and Pakistan mulberry.
The home is within 3 miles to award-winning schools, including about a quarter-mile to Laurel Elementary, 3 miles from Hillview Middle, and about 1.5 miles to Menlo/Atherton High.
Price: $1,595,000
Where: 1970 Menalto Ave., Menlo Park
Website: www.1970Menalto.com Easy to show by appointment after PEAD form sent to listing agent.
Listing agent: Intero. James Shin, DRE#01358693, 650-862-7332, James@jsregroupllc.com www.allaboutsiliconvalley.com WWW.MEETINGWITHJAMES.COM.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--Get ready to ‘drop, cover and hold’ Thursday for the Great California ShakeOut Drill

As if wildfires and a worldwide pandemic weren ’ t enough to worry about , Californians must also remain constantly vigilant about the always-looming threat of earthquakes .
So the state ’ s residents must get some practice time in .
The annual Great California ShakeOut Drill is set for Thursday , Oct. 15 , and will give California residents a chance to practice their safety techniques in case of a major earthquake hits .
More than 27 million people had already signed on for the exercise worldwide .
“ Damaging earthquakes can strike at any time , and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reminder of what we need to do in order to survive and recover , ” California Earthquake Authority CEO Glenn Pomeroy said in a Monday statement .
“ Earthquakes are a reality , but they don ’ t have to be devastating ; strengthen your home now and get prepared.
” At 10:15 a.m. , participants — including students , government workers , business employees and families — will be instructed to drop to the ground , take cover under a desk , table or other sturdy surface and hold on for 60 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were occurring .
Those who have downloaded the MyShake application to their phone will receive a test warning with similar guidance .
“ We have come a long way since ShakeOut began in 2008 , ” Mark Benthien , Global ShakeOut coordinator and outreach director for USC ’ s Southern California Earthquake Center , said in a statement earlier this month .
“ More people have not only been practicing earthquake safety , but also securing furniture and objects around them , discussing safety plans , and even retrofitting their homes .
For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drill plans because of COVID-19.
” With the coronavirus pandemic keeping many residents in their homes , Pomeroy said , it ’ s good to practice earthquake readiness in other environments — especially with families .
“ With our health care system already stressed by COVID-19 , ” he said , “ we all need to take steps to keep ourselves safe when the ground shakes.
” During an actual earthquake , people who are outdoors should find a clear spot away from trees , power lines and other objects that could topple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pull over to a clear area , stop and stay seated with their seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops .
When the quake ends , motorists should proceed with caution and avoid bridges or ramps that may have been damaged .
For a full list of participants across Los Angeles County or to register : shakeout.org/california .

As if wildfires and a worldwide pandemic weren’t enough to worry about, Californians must also remain constantly vigilant about the always-looming threat of earthquakes.
So the state’s residents must get some practice time in.
The annual Great California ShakeOut Drill is set for Thursday, Oct. 15, and will give California residents a chance to practice their safety techniques in case of a major earthquake hits.
More than 27 million people had already signed on for the exercise worldwide.
“Damaging earthquakes can strike at any time, and the Great California ShakeOut drill is an important reminder of what we need to do in order to survive and recover,” California Earthquake Authority CEO Glenn Pomeroy said in a Monday statement. “Earthquakes are a reality, but they don’t have to be devastating; strengthen your home now and get prepared.”
At 10:15 a.m., participants — including students, government workers, business employees and families — will be instructed to drop to the ground, take cover under a desk, table or other sturdy surface and hold on for 60 seconds, as if a major earthquake were occurring.
Those who have downloaded the MyShake application to their phone will receive a test warning with similar guidance.
“We have come a long way since ShakeOut began in 2008,” Mark Benthien, Global ShakeOut coordinator and outreach director for USC’s Southern California Earthquake Center, said in a statement earlier this month. “More people have not only been practicing earthquake safety, but also securing furniture and objects around them, discussing safety plans, and even retrofitting their homes. For 2020, they are also adapting their drill plans because of COVID-19.”
With the coronavirus pandemic keeping many residents in their homes, Pomeroy said, it’s good to practice earthquake readiness in other environments — especially with families.
“With our health care system already stressed by COVID-19,” he said, “we all need to take steps to keep ourselves safe when the ground shakes.”
During an actual earthquake, people who are outdoors should find a clear spot away from trees, power lines and other objects that could topple over. People who are driving should pull over to a clear area, stop and stay seated with their seatbelt fastened until the shaking stops. When the quake ends, motorists should proceed with caution and avoid bridges or ramps that may have been damaged.
For a full list of participants across Los Angeles County or to register: shakeout.org/california.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--Semen in co-worker’s water bottle lands California man in jail for 30 months

An Orange County worker who placed his semen in a female co-worker ’ s water bottle and food jar and onto her computer equipment was sentenced Tuesday to two and a half years in jail .
Orange County Superior Court Judge Kathleen Roberts also ordered Stevens Millancastro , a Palmdale resident , to register as a sex offender , after rejecting his argument that he committed the crimes as acts of revenge rather than for sexual gratification .
Roberts noted that Millancastro , 30 , acted in an “ extremely sexually aggressive ” way and “ deliberately infected ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ emotionally devastated.
” The judge said it was part of a scheme to get the woman to ingest Millancastro ’ s semen after she rejected him and reported him to their bosses .
“ He did it again and again and again , and that is very concerning to the court , ” Roberts said .
During the trial , Deputy District Attorney Laila Nikaien described Millancastro as being obsessed with his co-worker , saying he stared at her incessantly after she turned him down for a date .
Following her complaints @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Millancastrol to stop , an order he ignored , forcing the woman to file a formal HR complaint .
Several times the woman arrived at work at a wholesale business based in La Palma to find a cloudy substance in her half-full water bottles .
Surveillance cameras were set up to face her desk , and after she arrived one morning to discover a “ milky white substance ” on her keyboard her boss went back and looked over the surveillance footage .
The footage captured Millancastro waiting for the woman to leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on her keyboard and mouse .
Investigators later found Millancastro ’ s semen in her water bottle and a bottle of honey she used daily with her tea .
The woman testified that Millancastro had made her feel “ very , very uncomfortable ” and said she was “ disgusted ” to find his semen on her personal items and work space .
Millancastro ’ s attorney , Michael Morrison , admitted his client ’ s actions were “ highly inappropriate behavior , ” but contended during the trial that Millancastro was angry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ viewed as a false sexual harassment report had put his job at risk .
“ Mr .
Millancastro is not a danger to re-offend , ” Morrison said during the sentencing hearing , arguing against the sex offender registration requirement .
“ Clearly this was a very specific , pointed , situational circumstance.
” The prosecutor disagreed , telling the judge that Millancastro had subjected his co-worker to his “ sexual perversion.
” “ The public has a right to be warned of his deviancy , ” Nikaien said .
Millancastro opted for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Judge Roberts , rather than a jury , who found him guilty of multiple counts of misdemeanor assault and battery and determined he committed the crimes for a sexual purpose .
Prosecutors said the charged crimes occurred in November 2016 and January 2017 .

An Orange County worker who placed his semen in a female co-worker’s water bottle and food jar and onto her computer equipment was sentenced Tuesday to two and a half years in jail.
Orange County Superior Court Judge Kathleen Roberts also ordered Stevens Millancastro, a Palmdale resident, to register as a sex offender, after rejecting his argument that he committed the crimes as acts of revenge rather than for sexual gratification.
Roberts noted that Millancastro, 30, acted in an “extremely sexually aggressive” way and “deliberately infected” the victim’s belongings, leaving her “emotionally devastated.” The judge said it was part of a scheme to get the woman to ingest Millancastro’s semen after she rejected him and reported him to their bosses.
“He did it again and again and again, and that is very concerning to the court,” Roberts said.
During the trial, Deputy District Attorney Laila Nikaien described Millancastro as being obsessed with his co-worker, saying he stared at her incessantly after she turned him down for a date. Following her complaints, a boss at the business told Millancastrol to stop, an order he ignored,forcing the woman to file a formal HR complaint.
Several times the woman arrived at work at a wholesale business based in La Palma to find a cloudy substance in her half-full water bottles. Surveillance cameras were set up to face her desk, and after she arrived one morning to discover a “milky white substance” on her keyboard her boss went back and looked over the surveillance footage.
The footage captured Millancastro waiting for the woman to leave, then smearing the content of tissues on her keyboard and mouse. Investigators later found Millancastro’s semen in her water bottle and a bottle of honey she used daily with her tea.
The woman testified that Millancastro had made her feel “very, very uncomfortable” and said she was “disgusted” to find his semen on her personal items and work space.
Millancastro’s attorney, Michael Morrison, admitted his client’s actions were “highly inappropriate behavior,” but contended during the trial that Millancastro was angry and seeking revenge, believing what he viewed as a false sexual harassment report had put his job at risk.
“Mr. Millancastro is not a danger to re-offend,” Morrison said during the sentencing hearing, arguing against the sex offender registration requirement. “Clearly this was a very specific, pointed, situational circumstance.”
The prosecutor disagreed, telling the judge that Millancastro had subjected his co-worker to his “sexual perversion.”
“The public has a right to be warned of his deviancy,” Nikaien said.
Millancastro opted for a bench trial, so it was Judge Roberts, rather than a jury, who found him guilty of multiple counts of misdemeanor assault and battery and determined he committed the crimes for a sexual purpose. Prosecutors said the charged crimes occurred in November 2016 and January 2017.


mercurynews--2020-10-14--California will release Disneyland reopening plan ‘when we’re ready,’ state official says

Visits to Florida and Southern California theme parks will help a team from Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s administration develop long-awaited COVID-19 health and safety guidelines that will allow the state ’ s major tourist destinations to reopen after seven months of coronavirus closures .
“ I know a number of people are continuing to wonder when that guidance is coming out and I like to say , ‘ It will come out when we ’ re ready , ’ ” California Health and Human Services Secretary Mark Ghaly said .
“ We ’ re working closely with our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all feedback , use our own information from visits to operating parks in other states and then some visits here in parts of California to understand how those plans will come together.
” Ghaly commented on amusement parks reopening guidelines during a news conference on Tuesday , Oct. 13 — the seven-month anniversary of the closure of Disneyland .
Disneyland , Disney California Adventure , Universal Studios Hollywood , Knott ’ s Berry Farm , Six Flags Magic Mountain , SeaWorld San Diego , Legoland California and other California theme parks closed in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. and remain shuttered while they await guidelines for safely reopening from the state .
State agency officials were expected to visit Disneyland , Universal Studios Hollywood and other California theme parks this week to review COVID-19 protocols instituted by the industry leaders .
“ In terms of the California visits , those are upcoming , and together the information and the dialogue with our theme park operators across the state will help us land in a place that I think we can all feel confident is based on the best and most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the news conference .
The delegation will include the California Department of Public Health , California Division of Occupational Safety and Health and the Governor ’ s Office of Business and Economic Development .
Newsom administration officials went to Florida last week to assess the health safeguards in practice at Disney World and other Orlando-area theme parks .
“ We look forward to compiling the information from those visits , having ongoing dialogue so we land with the guidance that really does make sense , ” Ghaly said during the news conference .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ report back on what their findings and experience was , but the reason why we sent people is to really understand in action how a park operates , how the community around it functions with the park open in a time where we ’ re facing COVID transmission and really how it plays out not just within the park , but beyond.
” Newsom ’ s administration plans to compile best practices from the Florida theme park trip .
“ We ’ re trying to get a better handle on what we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re reading about , and our own concerns and our own environment as it relates to what makes our theme parks distinctive and unique , ” Newsom said during a news conference this week .
“ What ’ s worked in their states and what hasn ’ t worked in their states as it relates to guidance , as it relates to mandates , as it relates to messaging.
” The “ stubborn research ” done by Newsom ’ s team in Florida will help inform California theme park reopening guidelines .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell me what they saw , what their own experience was , ” Newsom said during the news conference .
“ Because this is serious.
” California theme parks have been left waiting on the sidelines while other segments of the economy have reopened under Newsom ’ s four-tier Blueprint for a Safer Economy .
“ We will continue to lead with public health , we will continue to look at our data , we will continue to look at where each theme park is in their counties so that we make sure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it ’ s appropriate and continues to follow the whole frame to our new blueprint , which is slow and stringent moving forward , ” Ghaly said .
“ Making sure that we do that safely and methodically .
”

Visits to Florida and Southern California theme parks will help a team from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration develop long-awaited COVID-19 health and safety guidelines that will allow the state’s major tourist destinations to reopen after seven months of coronavirus closures.
“I know a number of people are continuing to wonder when that guidance is coming out and I like to say, ‘It will come out when we’re ready,’” California Health and Human Services Secretary Mark Ghaly said. “We’re working closely with our industry partners making sure that we take all feedback, use our own information from visits to operating parks in other states and then some visits here in parts of California to understand how those plans will come together.”
Ghaly commented on amusement parks reopening guidelines during a news conference on Tuesday, Oct. 13 — the seven-month anniversary of the closure of Disneyland.
Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags Magic Mountain, SeaWorld San Diego, Legoland California and other California theme parks closed in mid-March amid the coronavirus outbreak in the U.S. and remain shuttered while they await guidelines for safely reopening from the state.
State agency officials were expected to visit Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood and other California theme parks this week to review COVID-19 protocols instituted by the industry leaders.
“In terms of the California visits, those are upcoming, and together the information and the dialogue with our theme park operators across the state will help us land in a place that I think we can all feel confident is based on the best and most up-to-date information,” Ghaly said during the news conference.
The delegation will include the California Department of Public Health, California Division of Occupational Safety and Health and the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.
Newsom administration officials went to Florida last week to assess the health safeguards in practice at Disney World and other Orlando-area theme parks.
“We look forward to compiling the information from those visits, having ongoing dialogue so we land with the guidance that really does make sense,” Ghaly said during the news conference. “I haven’t gotten the report back on what their findings and experience was, but the reason why we sent people is to really understand in action how a park operates, how the community around it functions with the park open in a time where we’re facing COVID transmission and really how it plays out not just within the park, but beyond.”
Newsom’s administration plans to compile best practices from the Florida theme park trip.
“We’re trying to get a better handle on what we’re being told, what we’re reading about, and our own concerns and our own environment as it relates to what makes our theme parks distinctive and unique,” Newsom said during a news conference this week. “What’s worked in their states and what hasn’t worked in their states as it relates to guidance, as it relates to mandates, as it relates to messaging.”
The “stubborn research” done by Newsom’s team in Florida will help inform California theme park reopening guidelines.
“I want folks to come back and tell me what they saw, what their own experience was,” Newsom said during the news conference. “Because this is serious.”
California theme parks have been left waiting on the sidelines while other segments of the economy have reopened under Newsom’s four-tier Blueprint for a Safer Economy.
“We will continue to lead with public health, we will continue to look at our data, we will continue to look at where each theme park is in their counties so that we make sure that when the guidance does come out, it’s appropriate and continues to follow the whole frame to our new blueprint, which is slow and stringent moving forward,” Ghaly said. “Making sure that we do that safely and methodically.”


mercurynews--2020-10-15--Postal Service agrees to reverse service changes

By Iris Samuels | Associated press/Report for America HELENA , Mont .
— The U.S .
Postal Service agreed Wednesday to reverse changes that slowed mail service nationwide , settling a lawsuit filed by Montana Gov .
Steve Bullock during a pandemic that is expected to force many more people to vote by mail .
The lawsuit filed against Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the U.S .
Postal Service on Sept. 9 argued changes implemented in June harmed access to mail services in Montana , resulting in delayed delivery of medical prescriptions , payments , and job applications , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vote by mail .
The postal service agreed to reverse all changes , which included reduced retail hours , removal of collection boxes and mail sorting machines , closure or consolidation of mail processing facilities , restriction of late or extra trips for timely mail delivery , and banning or restricting overtime .
The agreement also requires the Postal Service to prioritize election mail .
The settlement agreement was reached a day ahead of a hearing in the U.S. District Court in Great Falls .
It applies to all states .
“ Montanans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a result , we are ensuring stability through and beyond the election by immediately restoring the mail services folks rely on , whether it ’ s receiving vital medication or ensuring they can pay their bills on time , ” Bullock said in a statement .
A spokesperson for the U.S .
Postal Service did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment .
Many more voters are expected to vote by mail this November to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic .
The majority of Montana counties are holding elections by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ permitted them to do so to limit the spread of the coronavirus .
Bullock is running for a seat in the U.S. Senate .
The agreement comes after a federal judge temporarily blocked the controversial Postal Service changes on Sept. 17 , calling the changes “ a politically motivated attack on the efficiency of the Postal Service ” before the November election .
Judge Stanley Bastian in Yakima , Washington , issued the nationwide preliminary injunction sought by 14 states that brought forward a separate suit against the Trump administration and the U.S @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , led by Democratic attorneys general , expressed concern that delays might result in voters not receiving ballots or registration forms in time .
Following a national uproar last month , DeJoy , a major donor to President Donald Trump and the GOP , announced he was suspending some of the changes , including the removal of mail collection boxes , but other changes remained in place .
Samuels is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative .
Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on undercovered issues .

By Iris Samuels | Associated press/Report for America
HELENA, Mont. — The U.S. Postal Service agreed Wednesday to reverse changes that slowed mail service nationwide, settling a lawsuit filed by Montana Gov. Steve Bullock during a pandemic that is expected to force many more people to vote by mail.
The lawsuit filed against Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the U.S. Postal Service on Sept. 9 argued changes implemented in June harmed access to mail services in Montana, resulting in delayed delivery of medical prescriptions, payments, and job applications, and impeding the ability of Montana residents to vote by mail.
The postal service agreed to reverse all changes, which included reduced retail hours, removal of collection boxes and mail sorting machines, closure or consolidation of mail processing facilities, restriction of late or extra trips for timely mail delivery, and banning or restricting overtime.
The agreement also requires the Postal Service to prioritize election mail.
The settlement agreement was reached a day ahead of a hearing in the U.S. District Court in Great Falls. It applies to all states.
“Montanans never gave up this fight and as a result, we are ensuring stability through and beyond the election by immediately restoring the mail services folks rely on, whether it’s receiving vital medication or ensuring they can pay their bills on time,” Bullock said in a statement.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Postal Service did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.
Many more voters are expected to vote by mail this November to limit the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of Montana counties are holding elections by mail, after a directive by Bullock permitted them to do so to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Bullock is running for a seat in the U.S. Senate.
The agreement comes after a federal judge temporarily blocked the controversial Postal Service changes on Sept. 17, calling the changes “a politically motivated attack on the efficiency of the Postal Service” before the November election.
Judge Stanley Bastian in Yakima, Washington, issued the nationwide preliminary injunction sought by 14 states that brought forward a separate suit against the Trump administration and the U.S. Postal Service. The 14 states, led by Democratic attorneys general, expressed concern that delays might result in voters not receiving ballots or registration forms in time.
Following a national uproar last month, DeJoy, a major donor to President Donald Trump and the GOP, announced he was suspending some of the changes, including the removal of mail collection boxes, but other changes remained in place.
Samuels is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.


mercurynews--2020-10-15--Exclusive first look at Great America’s expanded new water park

California ’ s Great America officials were hoping to unveil the Santa Clara theme park ’ s new water park area to visitors earlier this year , but then the COVID-19 pandemic hit and resulted in the entire 2020 season being canceled .
Instead , water park fans will have to wait until 2021 to experience South Bay Shores , which takes the place of the park ’ s old Boomerang Bay .
On Wednesday , however , officials gave the Bay Area News Group an exclusive first look at the progress being made on this major new attraction , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ complete .
What we saw , even without all the signage , landscaping and other finishing touches in place , was far more than a expansion of the old Boomerang Bay , which has been arguably the theme park ’ s most popular attraction since opening in the early 2000s .
Rather , South Bay Shores should take the Great America water park experience to a whole new level .
Currently scheduled to open in summer 2021 , South Bay Shores is nearly 50 percent bigger than the old Boomerang Bay , expanding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With that added space , South Bay Shores will be able to offer more attractions ( going from 10 to 18 ) , three dining areas ( from the current one ) and more area for simply relaxing in the shade ( which might be the biggest selling point for parents ) .
Yet , those are just numbers .
Once you get to actually walk through the water park , and see the towering slides overhead , it ’ s easy to understand why organizers see South Bay Shores as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Great America .
“ South Bay Shores represents the newest phase of a multi-year revitalization of California ’ s Great America , ” says Manny Gonzalez , the theme park ’ s vice president and general manager .
“ Along with the waterpark , recent investments such as the innovative RailBlazer roller coaster , new dining venues , and general park improvements are showing guests and the community that the park ’ s transformation is fully underway here in the South Bay.
” The tour led off with what Danny Messinger , of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , called the “ headline attraction ” — Pacific Surge .
This is the part of the theme park that makes your jaw drop , as you take in this six-story-tall structure that features six different slides .
Pacific Surge is broken up into two parts , separated by one story .
The Feeding Frenzy and Barracuda attractions are located on the fifth story and are “ tube slides , ” designed to accommodate either solo riders or pairs who sail through twists , turns and drops on tubes in enclosed tunnels .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an even more intense ride will be found one story up with what ’ s dubbed the Shark Reef Plunge .
These six-story-tall attractions consists of four “ body slides ” that beckon guests into enclosed launch chambers , before — gasp !
— the floor suddenly falls out from under them and they experience a nearly vertical free fall before reaching the pool below .
It ’ s quite a hike to get to the top of Shark Reef Plunge , and those over the age of 14 will likely feel every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the drop zones , but the awaiting adrenaline rush should be worth it .
Plus , they get an awesome view of the San Francisco 49ers ’ Levi ’ s Stadium from up there .
A number of the old attractions remain , but they have all been improved upon in one way or another .
For example , families can still enjoy splashing about in the kid-friendly , relatively shallow Tide Pool ( previously known as Boomerang Lagoon ) , but now that area will also have eight small slides lining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pier 76 Cafe , which is shaping up to be a new restaurant that will offer a mix of beach food ( fish tacos , fried shrimp , etc . )
and theme park classics ( like , of course , chicken tenders ) , and we saw the outside of the new bar that will be serving beer , wine and frozen cocktails .
The theme of the water park is changing as well , going from the Australian motif of Boomerang Bay to a more classic California beach town feel .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ — such as the Screamin ’ Wombat Slide will now be known as the Reef Racer — as well as in the decorations and such .

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of "Pacific Surge" at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Stairs to the top of the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The entrance sign is under construction at California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark during a preview in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of the entrance at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Two of four launch chambers for "Shark Reef Plunge" are atop the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Four launch chambers for "Shark Reef Plunge" are atop the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of "Pacific Surge" at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of the Sand Bar at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Sand Bar" under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The bar at the "Sand Bar" under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: "Tide Pool," formally known as "Boomerang Lagoon," photographed during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of the "Tide Pool" at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: A slide entrance at the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: A button for one of four launch chambers for "Shark Reef Plunge" are atop the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Slide entrances at the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: A new slide at "Tide Pool," formally known as "Boomerang Lagoon," photographed during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: A koala bear was removed from the Australian themed "Jackaroo Landing" to make way for a more local theme during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Levi's Stadium can be seen from atop the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, with the "Coastal Cruz," formally known as "Didgeridoo Falls," in the foreground during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: A new slide at "Tide Pool," formally known as "Boomerang Lagoon," photographed during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The view from atop the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. The area in the center is a the site of a future park. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of "Pacific Surge" at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Levi's Stadium can be seen from atop the "Pacific Surge" slide complex, with the "Coastal Cruz," formally known as "Didgeridoo Falls," in the foreground during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The "Pacific Surge" slide complex, under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of Pier 76 Cafe at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Pier 76 Cafe under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Pier 76 Cafe under construction during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Holes for poles for shade can be seen at "Tide Pool," formally known as "Boomerang Lagoon," photographed during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: The future location of tables and chairs during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Loungers at "Breakers Bay," formally known as "Great Barrier Reef," during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: "Ripsnort Ridge" and "Screaming' Wombat" will be renamed "Reef Racer," photographed during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: A new slide at "Tide Pool," formally known as "Boomerang Lagoon," photographed during a preview of California's Great America's "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Danny Messinger, area manager at California's Great America, leads a tour in front of "Coastal Cruz," formally known as "Didgeridoo Falls," during a preview of "South Bay Shores" waterpark in Santa Clara, Calif., on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020. They plan to reopen the waterpark in 2021. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of at "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: A rendering of "South Bay Shores" waterpark at California's Great America, including of "Pacific Surge," center. (Courtesy of California's Great America)
California’s Great America officials were hoping to unveil the Santa Clara theme park’s new water park area to visitors earlier this year, but then the COVID-19 pandemic hit and resulted in the entire 2020 season being canceled.
Instead, water park fans will have to wait until 2021 to experience South Bay Shores, which takes the place of the park’s old Boomerang Bay. On Wednesday, however, officials gave the Bay Area News Group an exclusive first look at the progress being made on this major new attraction, which officials estimate is approximately 75 percent complete.
What we saw, even without all the signage, landscaping and other finishing touches in place, was far more than a expansion of the old Boomerang Bay, which has been arguably the theme park’s most popular attraction since opening in the early 2000s. Rather, South Bay Shores should take the Great America water park experience to a whole new level.
Currently scheduled to open in summer 2021, South Bay Shores is nearly 50 percent bigger than the old Boomerang Bay, expanding from 10½ to 15 acres in size. With that added space, South Bay Shores will be able to offer more attractions (going from 10 to 18), three dining areas (from the current one) and more area for simply relaxing in the shade (which might be the biggest selling point for parents).
Yet, those are just numbers. Once you get to actually walk through the water park, and see the towering slides overhead, it’s easy to understand why organizers see South Bay Shores as a major next step in the evolution of Great America.
“South Bay Shores represents the newest phase of a multi-year revitalization of California’s Great America,” says Manny Gonzalez, the theme park’s vice president and general manager. “Along with the waterpark, recent investments such as the innovative RailBlazer roller coaster, new dining venues, and general park improvements are showing guests and the community that the park’s transformation is fully underway here in the South Bay.”
The tour led off with what Danny Messinger, of the theme park’s marketing staff, called the “headline attraction” — Pacific Surge. This is the part of the theme park that makes your jaw drop, as you take in this six-story-tall structure that features six different slides.
Pacific Surge is broken up into two parts, separated by one story. The Feeding Frenzy and Barracuda attractions are located on the fifth story and are “tube slides,” designed to accommodate either solo riders or pairs who sail through twists, turns and drops on tubes in enclosed tunnels.
Those should be a blast, but an even more intense ride will be found one story up with what’s dubbed the Shark Reef Plunge. These six-story-tall attractions consists of four “body slides” that beckon guests into enclosed launch chambers, before — gasp! — the floor suddenly falls out from under them and they experience a nearly vertical free fall before reaching the pool below.
It’s quite a hike to get to the top of Shark Reef Plunge, and those over the age of 14 will likely feel every single step as they make their way to the drop zones, but the awaiting adrenaline rush should be worth it. Plus, they get an awesome view of the San Francisco 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium from up there.
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Disneyland attendance rises and visitor spending increases thanks to higher ticket prices Entertainment | Disneyland security dog attacks 81-year-old grandfather, lawsuit alleges A number of the old attractions remain, but they have all been improved upon in one way or another. For example, families can still enjoy splashing about in the kid-friendly, relatively shallow Tide Pool (previously known as Boomerang Lagoon), but now that area will also have eight small slides lining the perimeter.
We also walked inside Pier 76 Cafe, which is shaping up to be a new restaurant that will offer a mix of beach food (fish tacos, fried shrimp, etc.) and theme park classics (like, of course, chicken tenders), and we saw the outside of the new bar that will be serving beer, wine and frozen cocktails.
The theme of the water park is changing as well, going from the Australian motif of Boomerang Bay to a more classic California beach town feel. Expect to see that reflected in the names — such as the Screamin’ Wombat Slide will now be known as the Reef Racer — as well as in the decorations and such.
For more information, visit cagreatamerica.com.


mercurynews--2020-10-15--Murder trial starts for Hayward man charged with killing CHP officer in DUI crash

DUBLIN — Jury selection has started in the murder trial for the 24-year-old Hayward man charged with murdering a California Highway Patrol officer in what police describe as a 120-mile-an-hour drunk driving crash .
Mohammad Abraar Ali was also injured in the crash that killed CHP officer Andrew Camilleri and injured Camilleri ’ s partner on Christmas Eve 2017 .
Authorities say Ali was speeding in a Cadillac on Interstate 880 in Hayward when he drifted off the road and rear-ended the parked police vehicle .
Camilleri , in the driver ’ s seat , was killed .
His partner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ content was later registered at .11 , while .008 is considered legally drunk , authorities said .
Prosecutors and defense attorneys are scheduled to make opening statements before Judge Michael Gaffey and the jury on Oct. 21 .
Ali faces a second degree murder charge , which if convicted makes him eligible for a sentence of life without a chance for parole for the first 15 years .
In order to prove it , prosecutors will have to convince the jury that Ali was not only driving drunk that night , but that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kill someone and ignored the risk .
Ali allegedly told police he was drunk and high on marijuana that night , and kept driving after thinking “ at least three times ” about pulling over , a CHP officer wrote in a sworn court statement .

DUBLIN — Jury selection has started in a murder trial for the 24-year-old Hayward man charged with murdering a California Highway Patrol officer in what police describe as a 120-mile-an-hour drunk driving crash.
Mohammad Abraar Ali was also injured in the crash that killed CHP officer Andrew Camilleri and injured Camilleri’s partner on Christmas Eve 2017. Authorities say Ali was speeding in a Cadillac on Interstate 880 in Hayward when he drifted off the road and rear-ended the parked police vehicle.
Ali’s blood-alcohol content was later measured at 0.11%, authorities said. It is illegal in California to operate a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol content of 0.08% or more.
Prosecutors and defense attorneys are scheduled to make opening statements before Judge Michael Gaffey and the jury on Oct. 21.
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Ali allegedly told police he was drunk and high on marijuana that night, and kept driving after thinking “at least three times” about pulling over, a CHP officer wrote in a sworn court statement.