mercurynews--2020-09-05--49ers roster analysis: A player-by-player look at 53-man unit

SANTA CLARA — Introductions are not necessary .
Surprise moves ?
Not here , not now .
The 49ers ’ initial , 53-man roster welcomes back 17 of 22 starters from last season ’ s Super Bowl heartbreak .
Among them is wide receiver Deebo Samuel .
His surgically repaired right foot has been medically cleared , so he ’ s off the non-football-injury list and indeed a possibility for next Sunday ’ s season opener against Arizona .
Coach Kyle Shanahan telegraphed Samuel ’ s status last week , saying he was hopeful Samuel and rookie Brandon Aiyuk ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Shanahan was not made available for comment after Saturday ’ s 24 cuts .
Unlike the previous three years , general manager John Lynch will wait a day to address the media on this familiar-looking roster .
The only Super Bowl LIV starters gone : retired offensive linemen Joe Staley and Mike Person , current Indianapolis Colts defensive linemen DeForest Buckner and Sheldon Day , and current New Orleans Saints wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders .
Here is something to know about each player who made Saturday ’ s cut ( jersey numbers subject @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is 13-2 at Levi ’ s Stadium ( playoffs included ) with 20 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions .
He is way more prepared for a relief role than in 2018 , when he went 3-5 as a starter and showed authentic moxie .
The 2017 third-round pick has not thrown a pass since Oct. 28 , 2018 , when his record as a starter fell to 1-9 .
A 1,000-yard season is within reach , as he showed with last season ’ s average of 5.6 yards per carry that led all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ punishing style that Shanahan likes to use as an early-game battering ram into linebackers .
His overdue , 49ers debut is almost here , after two years of knee rehab that has him ready for third-down receptions .
Shanahan said in February that four running backs had become a “ necessity ” rather than a “ luxury.
” And Wilson is that fourth .
He was a fourth-down hero against Arizona last year .
Four-time Pro Bowler is recovering from a hamstring strain , enters the final year of his contract that will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 802-yard rookie season , he broke his foot in June , casting doubt on his early-season availability .
First-round pick has a “ unique ” catch radius , according to Garoppolo , who called Aiyuk a “ little comfort blanket , who going to make the tough catches , the contested catches , and make you look good doing it.
” No one is hungrier to avenge last season than this scrapper in the slot , who did not play because of a foot fracture and ensuing infections .
Three years after surviving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he emerged as a third-down and red-zone weapon last year .
A wrist fracture in June kept him out all camp , and he ’ s only had one practice to try reprising his role as the return specialist .
He ’ s made it to Year 3 with an improved mentality , sparked by “ the last straw ” of being a healthy scratch in the Super Bowl .
• 49ers roster deadline : Who missed the cut , who joins Deebo Samuel on the 53 ?
• Coming Sunday : Four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Bay Area sports leaders who stood before him • Nine questions before the 49ers make their roster cuts Defenders are forewarned .
Kittle celebrated his contract ( five years , $ 85 million ) by saying : “ I can just go out there and play football , and run through someone ’ s face , and I ’ m excited about that.
” The former Washington star will be a huge asset if he avoids another concussion , having sat out last season after his seventh documented concussion since college .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ camp , and he ’ s essentially insurance if Kittle or Reed get hurt .
Rookie from Georgia drew expected praise for his blocking but don ’ t discount his receiving ability , a la Kittle in 2017 .
Former Washington mainstay looks rejuvenated and ever-dominant as he replaces the retired Joe Staley at left tackle .
Calling it now that this left guard will emerge as a first-time Pro Bowler .
An Aug. 18 ankle sprain turned the center spot into an open audition for others , in case he is not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected to start at right guard or else fill in at center , having shown excellent versatility last year as an Alliance of American Football refugee .
After a two-year apprenticeship with Staley as his mentor , McGlinchey looks better than ever to dominate at right tackle and lead the locker room .
He reportedly cut his salary in half ( to $ 1 million ) as a likely backup at guard .
This fifth-round draft pick spent his rookie camp bouncing throughout the line .
Guard looks like his best spot , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year gave him experience if summoned off the bench this year .
Look for double-digit sacks and NFL Defensive Player of the Year consideration .
Financially set with a March contract , Armstead is still blossoming , including as a voice for social equality .
He had 5 1/2 sacks in last season ’ s 8-0 start , then just two the rest of the season .
He ’ s reportedly restructured his deal to create $ 9.5 million in cap room .
The 49ers ’ top draft pick did not overly impress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a better showing as a run stopper in their base defense .
This is a contract year for the 2017 draft ’ s No .
3 pick , and having bulked up to over 280 pounds , Thomas is poised to pounce with an interior-laden role .
He overcame an injury scare in camp ( concussion , shoulder ) and has shown familiar power and speed on the interior .
He looks like the most powerful tackle , and he is so past a knee injury that “ he ’ s taken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( defensive line ) room has taken , ” Jones said .
Coaches love the versatility and approach offered by this veteran who ’ s played with Detroit and Dallas .
Run stuffer gets a chance to add to his one career tackle , that coming against Marshawn Lynch in Week 17 last season .
Defensive leader does not count against the 53-man roster because he ’ s been on the NFL ’ s COVID-19 reserve list since Monday .
He ’ s looking to dominate like he did at the end of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up a hard-hitting run stop by making an acrobatic pass defense deep in coverage .
A rookie hero last season against Seattle , he ’ s capable of starting , although it ’ ll likely be at strong-side linebacker if Warner and Alexander are healthy .
Saw a lot of action as undrafted rookie last year , could be a Week 1 starter if Warner remains on COVID-19 list .
Special-teams mainstay and backup linebacker in in his sixth season .
Converted safety flashed in camp after spending last season on the practice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ savvy that perhaps he roves more than strictly stay at left cornerback .
Contract year .
He excelled deep in coverage during training camp , under intense scrutiny after his third-and-15 gaffe in the Super Bowl .
Contract year .
A calf injury kept him out of camp , but he ’ s OK now so the 49ers cut his backup , Jamar Taylor .
Contract year .
The 49ers considered trading the former starter this past week , The Athletic ’ s Matt Barrows reported .
Contract year .
A hamstring strain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spook the 49ers over Verrett ’ s availability in a career waylaid by leg injuries .
Contract year .
Longest-tenured 49er enters his seventh season , with just two interceptions in 64 games .
Can he follow an outstanding training camp with his first 16-start season ?
Contract year .
Remember how his Super Bowl interception touched off a celebratory photo shoot in the end zone ?
The Chiefs do .
His wild , fearless hitting almost makes up for his coverage deficiencies .
Outlasted Johnathan Cyprien for a roster spot .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overshadow a career-low 74.2 field-goal percentage for the season .
He can improve off a rookie year in which he averaged just 41.6 net yards , and his kickoffs must be better , too .
Like Ward , he ’ s been rostered since 2014 , although he missed the first six games last season on suspension and the special teams missed him .

SANTA CLARA — Introductions are not necessary. Surprise moves? Not here, not now.
The 49ers’ initial, 53-man roster welcomes back 17 of 22 starters from last season’s Super Bowl heartbreak.
Among them is wide receiver Deebo Samuel. His surgically repaired right foot has been medically cleared, so he’s off the non-football-injury list and indeed a possibility for next Sunday’s season opener against Arizona.
Coach Kyle Shanahan telegraphed Samuel’s status last week, saying he was hopeful Samuel and rookie Brandon Aiyuk (hamstring) could play Week 1. Shanahan was not made available for comment after Saturday’s 24 cuts.
Unlike the previous three years, general manager John Lynch will wait a day to address the media on this familiar-looking roster.
The only Super Bowl LIV starters gone: retired offensive linemen Joe Staley and Mike Person, current Indianapolis Colts defensive linemen DeForest Buckner and Sheldon Day, and current New Orleans Saints wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders.
Here is something to know about each player who made Saturday’s cut (jersey numbers subject to change for newcomers):
QUARTERBACK
Jimmy Garoppolo (10)
He is 13-2 at Levi’s Stadium (playoffs included) with 20 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions.
Nick Mullens (4)
He is way more prepared for a relief role than in 2018, when he went 3-5 as a starter and showed authentic moxie.
C.J. Beathard (3)
The 2017 third-round pick has not thrown a pass since Oct. 28, 2018, when his record as a starter fell to 1-9.
RUNNING BACK
Raheem Mostert (31)
A 1,000-yard season is within reach, as he showed with last season’s average of 5.6 yards per carry that led all NFL running backs.
Tevin Coleman (26)
Presents a more punishing style that Shanahan likes to use as an early-game battering ram into linebackers.
Jerick McKinnon (28)
His overdue, 49ers debut is almost here, after two years of knee rehab that has him ready for third-down receptions.
Jeff Wilson (30)
Shanahan said in February that four running backs had become a “necessity” rather than a “luxury.” And Wilson is that fourth. He was a fourth-down hero against Arizona last year.
Kyle Juszczyk (44)
Four-time Pro Bowler is recovering from a hamstring strain, enters the final year of his contract that will be pricey to extend.
WIDE RECEIVER
Deebo Samuel (19)
After an 802-yard rookie season, he broke his foot in June, casting doubt on his early-season availability.
Brandon Aiyuk (11)
First-round pick has a “unique” catch radius, according to Garoppolo, who called Aiyuk a “little comfort blanket, who going to make the tough catches, the contested catches, and make you look good doing it.”
Trent Taylor (15)
No one is hungrier to avenge last season than this scrapper in the slot, who did not play because of a foot fracture and ensuing infections.
Kendrick Bourne (84)
Three years after surviving roster cuts as an undrafted rookie, he emerged as a third-down and red-zone weapon last year.
Richie James (13)
A wrist fracture in June kept him out all camp, and he’s only had one practice to try reprising his role as the return specialist.
Dante Pettis (18)
He’s made it to Year 3 with an improved mentality, sparked by “the last straw” of being a healthy scratch in the Super Bowl. Related Articles San Francisco 49ers | Kurtenbach: The 49ers aren’t worried about Nick Bosa’s holdout. They should be
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TIGHT END
George Kittle (85)
Defenders are forewarned. Kittle celebrated his contract (five years, $85 million) by saying: “I can just go out there and play football, and run through someone’s face, and I’m excited about that.”
Jordan Reed (81)
The former Washington star will be a huge asset if he avoids another concussion, having sat out last season after his seventh documented concussion since college.
Ross Dwelley (82)
A foot injury sidelined him much of camp, and he’s essentially insurance if Kittle or Reed get hurt.
Charlie Woerner (89)
Rookie from Georgia drew expected praise for his blocking but don’t discount his receiving ability, a la Kittle in 2017.
OFFENSIVE LINE
Trent Williams (71)
Former Washington mainstay looks rejuvenated and ever-dominant as he replaces the retired Joe Staley at left tackle.
Laken Tomlinson (75)
Calling it now that this left guard will emerge as a first-time Pro Bowler.
Ben Garland (63)
An Aug. 18 ankle sprain turned the center spot into an open audition for others, in case he is not ready Week 1.
Daniel Brunskill (60)
He’s expected to start at right guard or else fill in at center, having shown excellent versatility last year as an Alliance of American Football refugee.
Mike McGlinchey (69)
After a two-year apprenticeship with Staley as his mentor, McGlinchey looks better than ever to dominate at right tackle and lead the locker room.
Tom Compton (66)
He reportedly cut his salary in half (to $1 million) as a likely backup at guard.
Colton McKivitz (68)
This fifth-round draft pick spent his rookie camp bouncing throughout the line. Guard looks like his best spot, for now.
Justin Skule (67)
Eight starts his rookie year gave him experience if summoned off the bench this year.
DEFENSIVE LINE
Nick Bosa (97)
Look for double-digit sacks and NFL Defensive Player of the Year consideration.
Arik Armstead (91)
Financially set with a March contract, Armstead is still blossoming, including as a voice for social equality.
Dee Ford (55)
He had 5 1/2 sacks in last season’s 8-0 start, then just two the rest of the season. He’s reportedly restructured his deal to create $9.5 million in cap room.
Javon Kinlaw (99)
The 49ers’ top draft pick did not overly impress in his rookie camp, but look for a better showing as a run stopper in their base defense.
Solomon Thomas (94)
This is a contract year for the 2017 draft’s No. 3 pick, and having bulked up to over 280 pounds, Thomas is poised to pounce with an interior-laden role.
D.J. Jones (93)
He overcame an injury scare in camp (concussion, shoulder) and has shown familiar power and speed on the interior.
Kentavius Street (94)
He looks like the most powerful tackle, and he is so past a knee injury that “he’s taken a step that nobody else in the (defensive line) room has taken,” Jones said.
Kerry Hyder (92)
Coaches love the versatility and approach offered by this veteran who’s played with Detroit and Dallas.
Kevin Givens (90)
Run stuffer gets a chance to add to his one career tackle, that coming against Marshawn Lynch in Week 17 last season.
LINEBACKERS
*Fred Warner (54)
Defensive leader does not count against the 53-man roster because he’s been on the NFL’s COVID-19 reserve list since Monday.
Kwon Alexander (56)
He’s looking to dominate like he did at the end of a recent practice, when he followed up a hard-hitting run stop by making an acrobatic pass defense deep in coverage.
Dre Greenlaw (57)
A rookie hero last season against Seattle, he’s capable of starting, although it’ll likely be at strong-side linebacker if Warner and Alexander are healthy.
Azeez Al-Shaair (51)
Saw a lot of action as undrafted rookie last year, could be a Week 1 starter if Warner remains on COVID-19 list.
Mark Nzeocha (53)
Special-teams mainstay and backup linebacker in in his sixth season.
Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles (45)
Converted safety flashed in camp after spending last season on the practice squad.
CORNERBACKS
Richard Sherman (25)
The 10th-year veteran has enough savvy that perhaps he roves more than strictly stay at left cornerback. Contract year.
Emmanuel Moseley (41)
He excelled deep in coverage during training camp, under intense scrutiny after his third-and-15 gaffe in the Super Bowl. Contract year.
K’Waun Williams (24)
A calf injury kept him out of camp, but he’s OK now so the 49ers cut his backup, Jamar Taylor. Contract year.
Ahkello Witherspoon (23)
The 49ers considered trading the former starter this past week, The Athletic’s Matt Barrows reported. Contract year.
Jason Verrett (22)
A hamstring strain last week wasn’t enough to spook the 49ers over Verrett’s availability in a career waylaid by leg injuries. Contract year.
SAFETIES
Jimmie Ward (20)
Longest-tenured 49er enters his seventh season, with just two interceptions in 64 games.
Jaquiski Tartt (29)
Can he follow an outstanding training camp with his first 16-start season? Contract year.
Tarvarius Moore (33)
Remember how his Super Bowl interception touched off a celebratory photo shoot in the end zone? The Chiefs do.
Marcell Harris (36)
His wild, fearless hitting almost makes up for his coverage deficiencies. Outlasted Johnathan Cyprien for a roster spot.
SPECIALISTS
Robbie Gould (9)
He made his final 17 field-goal attempts, overshadow a career-low 74.2 field-goal percentage for the season.
Mitch Wishnowsky (6)
He can improve off a rookie year in which he averaged just 41.6 net yards, and his kickoffs must be better, too.
Kyle Nelson (86)
Like Ward, he’s been rostered since 2014, although he missed the first six games last season on suspension and the special teams missed him.


mercurynews--2020-09-05--49ers roster deadline: Who missed the cut, who joins Deebo Samuel on the 53?

SANTA CLARA — Making the 49ers ’ roster is proving more difficult each season as coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch fortify a Super Bowl-caliber roster .
Wide receiver Jauan Jennings , the fifth and final member of this year ’ s draft class , didn ’ t make Saturday ’ s cut , nor did former Chicago Bears top pick Kevin White , even though the 49ers were desperate for healthy options the past month .
The biggest move onto what is currently a 52-man roster : Deebo Samuel , who came off the non-football-injury list after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ June foot surgery .
The second-year wide receiver is 1 of 17 starters returning from the 49ers ’ Super Bowl loss .
Linebacker Fred Warner does not count against the roster as he ’ s been on the NFL ’ s COVID-19 reserve list since Monday , with no further indications on his status .
Three veterans , meanwhile , will remain on the physically-unable-to-perform list — center Weston Richburg and defensive linemen Ronald Blair and Jullian Taylor — and they won ’ t be eligible to return from their knee injuries until @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks .
This year ’ s initial 53-man roster came out Saturday without a spot for the following players :

SANTA CLARA — Making the 49ers’ roster is proving more difficult each season as coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch fortify a Super Bowl-caliber roster.
Wide receiver Jauan Jennings, the fifth and final member of this year’s draft class, didn’t make Saturday’s cut, nor did former Chicago Bears top pick Kevin White, even though the 49ers were desperate for healthy options the past month.
The biggest move onto what is currently a 52-man roster: Deebo Samuel, who came off the non-football-injury list after making great strides in his recovery from June foot surgery. The second-year wide receiver is 1 of 17 starters returning from the 49ers’ Super Bowl loss.
Linebacker Fred Warner does not count against the roster as he’s been on the NFL’s COVID-19 reserve list since Monday, with no further indications on his status.
Three veterans, meanwhile, will remain on the physically-unable-to-perform list — center Weston Richburg and defensive linemen Ronald Blair and Jullian Taylor — and they won’t be eligible to return from their knee injuries until after the season’s first six weeks.
This year’s initial 53-man roster came out Saturday without a spot for the following players:
Running back
JaMycal Hasty
Wide receiver
Jauan Jennings
Kevin White
Shawn Poindexter
River Cracraft
Tight end
MarQueis Gray
Chase Harrell
Fullback
Josh Hokitt
Offensive line
Ross Reynolds (waived/injured)
Jaryd Jones-Smith
Hroniss Grasu
Dakoda Shepley
William Sweet
Defensive line
Dion Jordan
Alex Barrett
Darrion Daniels
Cameron Malveaux
Linebacker
Joe Walker
Cornerback
Tim Harris
Dontae Johnson
Jamar Taylor
Safety
Johnathan Cyprien
Jared Mayden
Evan Foster
Physically unable to perform list
Defensive end Ronald Blair (knee)
Defensive lineman Jullian Taylor (knee)
Center Weston Richburg (knee)
Injured reserve
Wide receiver Jalen Hurd
Wide receiver Tavon Austin
Wide receiver J.J. Nelson
Reserve/Opt-Out
Wide receiver J.J. Nelson
Center Jake Brendel
Offensive tackle Shon Coleman


mercurynews--2020-09-05--‘There is no Labor Day’: Lake Berryessa community struggles after Hennessey Fire ravages popular Bay

‘There is no Labor Day’: Lake Berryessa community struggles after Hennessey Fire ravages popular Bay Area destination

CLICK HERE if you ’ re having a problem viewing the video or photos on a mobile device .
Forget about spending the Labor Day weekend at Lake Berryessa .
Because of the devastating blaze that raged through the wooded hills all around it last month , the popular lake is off limits to the throngs of Bay Area residents who usually flock to its cooling waters for recreation and summer heat relief .
Instead of the steady drone of outboard motors and the buzz of jet skis , a dead silence filled the air after officials closed the lake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Hennessey Fire swept through the area on Aug. 18-19 .
The blaze , part of the LNU Lightning Complex Fire , killed three people and destroyed roughly 100 homes as well as the Markley Cove Resort , a fixture on the lake since 1963 .
Mary Hintemeyer , 70 , her boyfriend Leo McDermott , 71 , and McDermott ’ s 41-year-old son Tom tried to flee , but died inside a homemade fire shelter on their property off Highway 128 near the cove .
Two other people also died from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the most deadly of all of the Lightning Complex conflagrations that have consumed hundreds of thousands of acres the past few weeks and darkened the Bay Area ’ s skies with soot and smoke .
For locals who had counted on an economic boost from visitors seeking healthy outside recreation after being cooped up from conronavirus shelter-in place orders , California ’ s third-largest wildfire couldn ’ t have struck at a worse time .
The lake is expected to remain closed for at least a month .
All reservations at Markley Cove @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Spanish Flat and Putah Canyon Resorts are canceled , according to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation , which oversees the lake and its leased concessions .
“ We are working hard to make Lake Berryessa safe for our employees and visitors , and that will take time , ” said the agency ’ s regional director , Ernest Conant .
“ We ask the public to be patient during this process , and we look forward to opening as soon as possible.
” Hundreds of workers from PG & E , AT & @ @ @ @ @ @ @ restore essential services to the large swath of the area devastated by the fire , which burned all the way to Vacaville and even jumped Interstate 80 .
The Napa County Sheriff ’ s Department issued a community alert , warning those who were tempted to seek relief from the holiday weekend heat wave to stay away .
“ Currently , Lake Berryessa is closed to the public while infrastructure is being rebuilt for future use .
We want to thank everyone for their patience and complying with the closure orders .
Avoiding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ workers to do their jobs in a safe and timely manner .
Please respect the closure , ” said Napa County Sheriff John Robertson .
Lake Berryessa , with its many nooks and crannies , is Napa County ’ s largest lake , formed in 1957 when the Monticello Dam was built on Putah Creek .
It ’ s long been a popular destination for Bay Area residents seeking a nearby summer escape , though it ’ s also known as a party spot and has had its share of drownings , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cove Marina owner Chad Frazier , whose grandfather Carl Frazier established the resort in 1963 , lost nearly everything .
He said it was tough to comprehend until he saw the destruction in person three days after the fire raged through .
High winds and towering walls of flame blackened the hillsides surrounding the lake , tearing apart the rural working-class community .
“ We didn ’ t realize how much was damaged down here until we got back up .
It ’ s a kick in the gut .
You kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worst is out there , ” Frazier said , as he and his employees cleaned up and PG & E worked to restore power on the property .
The resort lost more than 20 new boats on the rental dock , seven out of eight cabins , the store and office .
Labor Day has historically been their biggest weekend , which Frazier described as a “ last hurrah ” for the summer .
He had to refund about $ 500,000 in reservation fees so far , but isn ’ t complaining .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to ever think we ’ re victims up here .
We have insurance , and we didn ’ t lose our home , we didn ’ t lose our history , ” Frazier said .
“ Lake Berryessa is still here ; it isn ’ t going away .
We ’ re going to rebuild , and we ’ re going to be stronger and better than ever , ” Frazier said .
There are huge amounts of rubble and burned boats to clear , docks and buildings to rebuild , and an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reopening .
Frazier said he ’ ll do everything in his power to return as soon as it ’ s safe .
A majority of his customers are from the Bay Area , and longtime visitors lamented the destruction of a place that ’ s given them many fond memories .
“ In the grand scheme of things , we ’ re OK. We ’ re a business .
What happened is tragic and it ’ s sad , but it ’ s not someone ’ s home , it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s not their livestock , ” Frazier said .
“ We ’ re not looking for sympathy , we ’ re more concerned about the people who lost their homes.
” Kailey Brown ’ s newly remodeled home , perched on East Ridge Drive in the hard-hit Berryessa Highlands , was completely flattened .
She bought the 1974 home last October , adding new hardwood floors and a wraparound porch with stunning views of the nearby mountains and the Wragg Canyon section of the lake .
Brown , a registered nurse , got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to her house and save any valuables before evacuating .
She said she was in shock when she first viewed her home last week .
“ I was crying , I couldn ’ t believe it .
It felt like a bad dream , a nightmare , ” Brown said .
“ I guess I ’ m kind of over it , there ’ s nothing I can do.
” Cal Fire firefighter Phillip Radford and others helped Brown and her cousin , Christopher Moulton , sift through the ashy rubble looking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to find some of her grandmother ’ s jewelry , a ceramic tea set and a few other treasured items .
Brown plans to rebuild on the same idyllic spot .
“ It ’ s actually just as much healing for us to help .
You feel helpless when you can ’ t save something.
” Radford told Brown .
Marcia Ritz , 77 , and her husband Jerry Rehmke , 80 , who married last year , were luckier than many .
Or at least half as lucky .
The couple ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Store and Deli , was left standing after the Hennessey Fire swept through the tiny community on the western shore of Lake Berryessa .
But almost everything else in the neighborhood — including the mobile home park where Ritz lived — was destroyed .
Also badly damaged were the small hillside communities off of Berryessa Knoxville Road .
“ I ’ m an artist .
I lost all of my artwork .
I lost all of my friend ’ s original art that I had , and everything I owned , ” Ritz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from San Leandro , thinks she ’ ll have to close her business in the close-knit Lake Berryessa town of about 1,700 .
It recently started booming as the lake became an even more popular spot for people to get away from it all and socially distance during the pandemic .
“ There is no customer base .
There are maybe two houses remaining on the hill , ” she said , waving her hand to gesture down Berryessa Knoxville Road .
Still , Ritz is glad to have her life , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was a close call .
As the fire surrounded them , she , Rehmke and eight others boarded a pontoon boat and headed to the middle of the lake , where for four or five hours they stared in awe and terror at the towering flames as the hills around them burned .
Marty Rodden , owner of Lake Berryessa Boat and Jet Ski Rentals , was spared the loss of his home in Berryessa Highlands and his business in Spanish Flat near the country store .
Rodden , who grew up in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ business 27 years ago .
Five of his employees ’ houses burned , and all of the homes from two houses above him are gone .
“ I was very , very fortunate , ” Rodden said .
“ It was terrifying , and now it ’ s heartbreaking .
Everybody knows everybody up here.
” He evacuated and came back two days later , but then police told him he had 20 minutes to leave .
“ I grabbed my clothes and animals and left .
I was the last car out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ couldn ’ t even see the top of them , ” Rodden said .
” I ’ ve been evacuated six times in five years .
Everything ’ s drying out , and every year we ’ re having more and more and more fires.
” Rodden is back home now and estimates he ’ s lost about $ 500,000 so far from cancellations , including some $ 100,000 for the Labor Day weekend alone .
Although he lost a month ’ s worth of business when shelter-in-place orders were issued in March @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were up 20 % as people sought a break from the pandemic lockdown .
Every weekend before the fire was like a holiday , with complete sellouts of boat rentals , he added .
“ We ’ re not going to have a Labor Day weekend .
There is no Labor Day , ” Rodden said .
Looking forward , Napa County will seek bids in November for three resort concessions on the federally-owned and managed land .
Rancho Monticello , Spanish Flat and Steele Park will all be brand new and get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lease one of them as the lake rebuilds .
“ I love my business and I love the people up here .
It ’ s quiet , it ’ s peaceful , it ’ s beautiful , we live in a piece of paradise , ” Rodden said .

CLICK HERE if you’re having a problem viewing the video or photos on a mobile device.
Forget about spending the Labor Day weekend at Lake Berryessa.
Because of the devastating blaze that raged through the wooded hills all around it last month, the popular lake is off limits to the throngs of Bay Area residents who usually flock to its cooling waters for recreation and summer heat relief.
Instead of the steady drone of outboard motors and the buzz of jet skis, a dead silence filled the air after officials closed the lake to all, including locals, after the Hennessey Fire swept through the area on Aug. 18-19. The blaze, part of the LNU Lightning Complex Fire, killed three people and destroyed roughly 100 homes as well as the Markley Cove Resort, a fixture on the lake since 1963.
Mary Hintemeyer, 70, her boyfriend Leo McDermott, 71, and McDermott’s 41-year-old son Tom tried to flee, but died inside a homemade fire shelter on their property off Highway 128 near the cove. Two other people also died from the fire in Solano County, making it the most deadly of all of the Lightning Complex conflagrations that have consumed hundreds of thousands of acres the past few weeks and darkened the Bay Area’s skies with soot and smoke.
For locals who had counted on an economic boost from visitors seeking healthy outside recreation after being cooped up from coronavirus shelter-in place orders, California’s third-largest wildfire couldn’t have struck at a worse time.
The lake is expected to remain closed for at least a month. All reservations at Markley Cove, Pleasure Cove, Steele Canyon, Spanish Flat and Putah Canyon Resorts are canceled, according to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees the lake and its leased concessions.
“We are working hard to make Lake Berryessa safe for our employees and visitors, and that will take time,” said the agency’s regional director, Ernest Conant. “We ask the public to be patient during this process, and we look forward to opening as soon as possible.”
Hundreds of workers from PG&E, AT&T and other agencies are working to restore essential services to the large swath of the area devastated by the fire, which burned all the way to Vacaville and even jumped Interstate 80. The Napa County Sheriff’s Department issued a community alert, warning those who were tempted to seek relief from the holiday weekend heat wave to stay away.
“Currently, Lake Berryessa is closed to the public while infrastructure is being rebuilt for future use. We want to thank everyone for their patience and complying with the closure orders. Avoiding the area during closure allows hundreds of workers to do their jobs in a safe and timely manner. Please respect the closure,” said Napa County Sheriff John Robertson.
Lake Berryessa, with its many nooks and crannies, is Napa County’s largest lake, formed in 1957 when the Monticello Dam was built on Putah Creek. It’s long been a popular destination for Bay Area residents seeking a nearby summer escape, though it’s also known as a party spot and has had its share of drownings, including five so far this year.
Markley Cove Marina owner Chad Frazier, whose grandfather Carl Frazier established the resort in 1963, lost nearly everything. He said it was tough to comprehend until he saw the destruction in person three days after the fire raged through. High winds and towering walls of flame blackened the hillsides surrounding the lake, tearing apart the rural working-class community.
“We didn’t realize how much was damaged down here until we got back up. It’s a kick in the gut. You kind of hope for the best, understanding the worst is out there,” Frazier said, as he and his employees cleaned up and PG&E worked to restore power on the property.
The resort lost more than 20 new boats on the rental dock, seven out of eight cabins, the store and office. Labor Day has historically been their biggest weekend, which Frazier described as a “last hurrah” for the summer. He had to refund about $500,000 in reservation fees so far, but isn’t complaining.
“I don’t want anybody to ever think we’re victims up here. We have insurance, and we didn’t lose our home, we didn’t lose our history,” Frazier said. “Lake Berryessa is still here; it isn’t going away. We’re going to rebuild, and we’re going to be stronger and better than ever,” Frazier said.
There are huge amounts of rubble and burned boats to clear, docks and buildings to rebuild, and an environmental inspection that must be passed before reopening. Frazier said he’ll do everything in his power to return as soon as it’s safe. A majority of his customers are from the Bay Area, and longtime visitors lamented the destruction of a place that’s given them many fond memories.
“In the grand scheme of things, we’re OK. We’re a business. What happened is tragic and it’s sad, but it’s not someone’s home, it’s not anybody’s life, it’s not their livestock,” Frazier said. “We’re not looking for sympathy, we’re more concerned about the people who lost their homes.”
Kailey Brown’s newly remodeled home, perched on East Ridge Drive in the hard-hit Berryessa Highlands, was completely flattened. She bought the 1974 home last October, adding new hardwood floors and a wraparound porch with stunning views of the nearby mountains and the Wragg Canyon section of the lake.
Brown, a registered nurse, got home too late from work to drive up to her house and save any valuables before evacuating. She said she was in shock when she first viewed her home last week.
“I was crying, I couldn’t believe it. It felt like a bad dream, a nightmare,” Brown said. “I guess I’m kind of over it, there’s nothing I can do.”
Cal Fire firefighter Phillip Radford and others helped Brown and her cousin, Christopher Moulton, sift through the ashy rubble looking for sentimental items. She was pleased to find some of her grandmother’s jewelry, a ceramic tea set and a few other treasured things. Brown plans to rebuild on the same idyllic spot.
“It’s actually just as much healing for us to help. You feel helpless when you can’t save something.” Radford told Brown.
Marcia Ritz, 77, and her husband Jerry Rehmke, 80, who married last year, were luckier than many. Or at least half as lucky.
The couple’s store, The Spanish Flat Country Store and Deli, was left standing after the Hennessey Fire swept through the tiny community on the western shore of Lake Berryessa. But almost everything else in the neighborhood — including the mobile home park where Ritz lived — was destroyed. Also badly damaged were the small hillside communities off of Berryessa Knoxville Road.
“I’m an artist. I lost all of my artwork. I lost all of my friend’s original art that I had, and everything I owned,” Ritz said.
Now, Ritz, originally from San Leandro, thinks she’ll have to close her business in the close-knit Lake Berryessa town of about 1,700. It recently started booming as the lake became an even more popular spot for people to get away from it all and socially distance during the pandemic.
“There is no customer base. There are maybe two houses remaining on the hill,” she said, waving her hand to gesture down Berryessa Knoxville Road.
Still, Ritz is glad to have her life, and the lives of her friends. It was a close call. As the fire surrounded them, she, Rehmke and eight others boarded a pontoon boat and headed to the middle of the lake, where for four or five hours they stared in awe and terror at the towering flames as the hills around them burned.
Marty Rodden, owner of Lake Berryessa Boat and Jet Ski Rentals, was spared the loss of his home in Berryessa Highlands and his business in Spanish Flat near the country store. Rodden, who grew up in Oakland near Lake Merritt, began the business 27 years ago. Five of his employees’ houses burned, and all of the homes from two houses above him are gone.
“I was very, very fortunate,” Rodden said. “It was terrifying, and now it’s heartbreaking. Everybody knows everybody up here.”
He evacuated and came back two days later, but then police told him he had 20 minutes to leave.
“I grabbed my clothes and animals and left. I was the last car out. There were 200-foot flames. I couldn’t even see the top of them,” Rodden said. ” I’ve been evacuated six times in five years. Everything’s drying out, and every year we’re having more and more and more fires.”
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Living with air pollution, especially from wildfires or agriculture, raises risk of dementia, US study finds Crashes and Disasters | Cadaver dogs are in Maui to help find the dead. Here’s how it works and why it’s difficult Rodden is back home now and estimates he’s lost about $500,000 so far from cancellations, including some $100,000 for the Labor Day weekend alone. Although he lost a month’s worth of business when shelter-in-place orders were issued in March, he said rental sales recovered and actually were up 20% as people sought a break from the pandemic lockdown. Every weekend before the fire was like a holiday, with complete sellouts of boat rentals, he added.
“We’re not going to have a Labor Day weekend. There is no Labor Day,” Rodden said.
Looking forward, Napa County will seek bids in November for three resort concessions on the federally-owned and managed land. Rancho Monticello, Spanish Flat and Steele Park will all be brand new and get 50-year contracts, and Rodden hopes to lease one of them as the lake rebuilds.
“I love my business and I love the people up here. It’s quiet, it’s peaceful, it’s beautiful, we live in a piece of paradise,” Rodden said.
Staff reporter Annie Sciacca contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Walters: Legislature’s dominant Democrats are still bickering

One might think that when Democrats captured overwhelming control of the California Legislature — roughly three-fourths of its 120 seats — harmony would prevail .
Nope .
As the Legislature ’ s just-concluded , pandemic-truncated 2020 session demonstrated , one-party dominance is no panacea .
While Republican legislators may be largely irrelevant these days — although they did display some sly gamesmanship on the session ’ s final night — fault lines within dominant Democrats produced plenty of bickering and one of the Capitol ’ s most enduring traits , rivalry between the two houses , was particularly obvious .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jesse Unruh and Willie Brown — made their house dominant for decades , until legislative term limits , enacted by voters in 1990 , undermined the speakership ’ s inherent powers .
Strong-willed Senate leaders such as John Burton and Darrell Steinberg stepped into the leadership vacuum and the “ upper house ” called the shots for two decades until term limits were relaxed .
However , in recent years , the Assembly under Speaker Anthony Rendon has reclaimed at least parity and perhaps an edge vis-à-vis the Senate .
Although both are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins — a former Assembly speaker — also developed a personal rivalry , one that doomed major housing legislation .
Just before midnight , the Assembly finally took up and passed Atkins ’ Senate Bill 1120 , which would have essentially erased single-family zoning and allowed property owners to build denser housing .
The far-reaching but highly controversial bill had languished in the Assembly for two months , but with just minutes remaining , the Assembly sent it back to the Senate for final approval — too @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over SB 1120 at 11:57 , that was impossible and those ( Assembly ) votes were there days ago , ” Atkins told reporters later .
“ If Sen. Atkins wanted the bill , she could have asked for it , ” Rendon insisted .
“ They didn ’ t ask for that bill .
They didn ’ t prioritize it.
” Atkins had a problem of her own — an effective effort by Republicans to stall action on bills by stretching out debate and voting , which was enhanced by having most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ electronically , due to one having tested positively for COVID-19 .
Six hours before adjournment , Atkins attempted to speed up the Senate ’ s snail ’ s pace by limiting debate , but Republicans objected and the conflict essentially shut down operations for more than two hours .
Atkins was fighting a two-front war , one with Rendon and another with Republicans .
She later acknowledged that the debate limit attempt was a managerial misstep , saying “ Clearly , it backfired.
” Rendon had problems of his own .
His office @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an Oakland Democrat who had just given birth , permission to participate electronically , even though the Assembly had set up such a system due to the COVID-19 .
Wicks came to the Assembly floor with her daughter , Elly , in her arms to back Atkins ’ housing bill .
The dramatic gesture became an instant social media sensation and on Tuesday , Rendon issued a public apology , saying , “ My intention was never to be inconsiderate toward ( Wicks ) , her role as a legislator , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ participation had been one point of Atkins-Rendon friction and it backfired on both .
While Atkins embraced it , only to have Republicans use it as a weapon , Rendon had publicly expressed concern that it was legally shaky — which is why , apparently , he refused to let Wicks use it .
The Capitol ’ s dominant party has clearly fragmented into an assemblage of quasi-parties defined by ideology , geography , ethnicity , economic class and , as the Atkins-Rendon feud shows , by personality .
The old saying about @ @ @ @ @ @

One might think that when Democrats captured overwhelming control of the California Legislature — roughly three-fourths of its 120 seats — harmony would prevail. Nope.
As the Legislature’s just-concluded, pandemic-truncated 2020 session demonstrated, one-party dominance is no panacea.
While Republican legislators may be largely irrelevant these days — although they did display some sly gamesmanship on the session’s final night — fault lines within dominant Democrats produced plenty of bickering and one of the Capitol’s most enduring traits, rivalry between the two houses, was particularly obvious.
Egocentric speakers of the Assembly — notably Jesse Unruh and Willie Brown — made their house dominant for decades, until legislative term limits, enacted by voters in 1990, undermined the speakership’s inherent powers.
Strong-willed Senate leaders such as John Burton and Darrell Steinberg stepped into the leadership vacuum and the “upper house” called the shots for two decades until term limits were relaxed. However, in recent years, the Assembly under Speaker Anthony Rendon has reclaimed at least parity and perhaps an edge vis-à-vis the Senate.
Although both are liberal Democrats from Southern California, Rendon and Senate President Pro Tem Toni Atkins — a former Assembly speaker — also developed a personal rivalry, one that doomed major housing legislation.
Just before midnight, the Assembly finally took up and passed Atkins’ Senate Bill 1120, which would have essentially erased single-family zoning and allowed property owners to build denser housing.
The far-reaching but highly controversial bill had languished in the Assembly for two months, but with just minutes remaining, the Assembly sent it back to the Senate for final approval — too late for action.
“To send over SB 1120 at 11:57, that was impossible and those (Assembly) votes were there days ago,” Atkins told reporters later.
“If Sen. Atkins wanted the bill, she could have asked for it,” Rendon insisted. “They didn’t ask for that bill. They didn’t prioritize it.”
Atkins had a problem of her own — an effective effort by Republicans to stall action on bills by stretching out debate and voting, which was enhanced by having most GOP senators in personal quarantine and participating electronically, due to one having tested positively for COVID-19.
Six hours before adjournment, Atkins attempted to speed up the Senate’s snail’s pace by limiting debate, but Republicans objected and the conflict essentially shut down operations for more than two hours.
Atkins was fighting a two-front war, one with Rendon and another with Republicans. She later acknowledged that the debate limit attempt was a managerial misstep, saying “Clearly, it backfired.”
Rendon had problems of his own. His office had refused to allow Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks, an Oakland Democrat who had just given birth, permission to participate electronically, even though the Assembly had set up such a system due to the COVID-19.
Wicks came to the Assembly floor with her daughter, Elly, in her arms to back Atkins’ housing bill. The dramatic gesture became an instant social media sensation and on Tuesday, Rendon issued a public apology, saying, “My intention was never to be inconsiderate toward (Wicks), her role as a legislator, or her role as a mother.”
Remote participation had been one point of Atkins-Rendon friction and it backfired on both. While Atkins embraced it, only to have Republicans use it as a weapon, Rendon had publicly expressed concern that it was legally shaky — which is why, apparently, he refused to let Wicks use it.
The Capitol’s dominant party has clearly fragmented into an assemblage of quasi-parties defined by ideology, geography, ethnicity, economic class and, as the Atkins-Rendon feud shows, by personality. The old saying about herding cats comes to mind.
Dan Walters is a CalMatters columnist.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Around Lafayette: Historical Society needs community’s help

It ’ s been hot , but somehow near the official “ end ” of summer , it just doesn ’ t feel like we actually had a summer at all .
Despite 2020 ’ s lost summer , there has been much going on around Lafayette these past few smoky weeks .
Here ’ s a quick look .
The Lafayette Historical Society needs a hand .
Many of us have probably wandered past the Lafayette Historical Society , located on the ground floor of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center on Golden Gate Way .
And some may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ archives and history room and learned something they didn ’ t already know about Lafayette ’ s past .
A case in point : Who knew the society also maintains and operates the city ’ s very first fire engine ?
Old Betsy , as she is known , is a 1919 Model TT fire engine .
The Historical Society raises operating funds through a combination of membership dues , sponsorships , the not-to-be-missed yearly “ Breakfast with Santa ” and their popular speaker series .
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic , though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s help .
Check out their website at lafayettehistory.org and become an active member of this esteemed local gem .
Find out more by calling Mary McCosker at 925-283-1848 .
And if anyone knows how to work on ( or drive ) a Model T , the society could sure use your help with Old Betsy .
Terraces project OK ’ d : For the better part of a decade , the tale of Deer Hill , which sits at the corner of Pleasant Hill Road and Highway 24 , has gripped @ @ @ @ @ @ @ site be home to townhouses , single-family homes ( which numbered at times between four and 44 ) or , as it has now turned out , apartments ?
In the wee hours of a Tuesday morning late last month , the City Council had the final say after scores of public hearings , thousands of pages of public comment and nearly 100 public speakers over two hearings .
The five-member council voted to approve the Terraces of Lafayette project consisting of 315 apartments on the 22-acre site .
The debate was impassioned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you would like to watch what surely is a critical moment in Lafayette ’ s history , you can do so anytime on the city ’ s YouTube channel at bit.ly/LoveLafayetteYouTube .
Wildfire town hall : Some called it the best city-held meeting ever , and it was timely as never before .
Recently , more than 60 people attended a town hall devoted to wildfire preparation .
The three-hour meeting provided residents with detailed information from the Lafayette Police Department , the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District ( Con Fire ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Team ) .
A range of resources were also provided , and questions from the public were answered .
It was a wealth of timely information on how to prepare for a wildfire and steps the city and Con Fire are taking to protect the public , from pre deployment strategies to wildfire cameras and the city ’ s emergency AM radio station that ’ s soon to be on the air .
If you missed it , watch this important Town Hall on the city ’ s YouTube channel .
And view @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bit.ly/LafAreYouReady .
Council election : Lafayette ’ s candidates for City Council are Cameron Burks , Carl Anduri , Regina Dawson and Farschad Farzan .
The four candidates are contesting three open seats .
It will be a memorable election season in Lafayette , so don ’ t forget : The general election is Nov. 3 .
If you ’ re voting by mail , get your ballot into that mailbox early !
Be kind : As I ’ ve previously noted , the city of Lafayette proclaimed this year ’ s days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” in Lafayette .
# BeKind21 is the brainchild of Lady Gaga ’ s Born This Way Foundation , and everyone is invited to participate in the challenge by being kind to neighbors , friends , family members , fellow residents and themselves .
Here ’ s is a list of # BeKind21 activities that the Lafayette community has developed to help you ensure kindness all the way around : bayareane.ws/2QYTpqG .
Let ’ s make Lafayette the model of kindness !
See you next month and stay safe .
Jeffrey Heyman can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Follow him and the city of Lafayette on Twitter at @ JeffHeyman and @ LoveLafayette .

It’s been hot, but somehow near the official “end” of summer, it just doesn’t feel like we actually had a summer at all. Despite 2020’s lost summer, there has been much going on around Lafayette these past few smoky weeks. Here’s a quick look.
The Lafayette Historical Society needs a hand. Many of us have probably wandered past the Lafayette Historical Society, located on the ground floor of the Lafayette Library and Learning Center on Golden Gate Way. And some may have even visited the society’s archives and history room and learned something they didn’t already know about Lafayette’s past.
A case in point: Who knew the society also maintains and operates the city’s very first fire engine? Old Betsy, as she is known, is a 1919 Model TT fire engine. The Historical Society raises operating funds through a combination of membership dues, sponsorships, the not-to-be-missed yearly “Breakfast with Santa” and their popular speaker series.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, though, the society now needs the community’s help. Check out their website at lafayettehistory.org and become an active member of this esteemed local gem. Find out more by calling Mary McCosker at 925-283-1848. And if anyone knows how to work on (or drive) a Model T, the society could sure use your help with Old Betsy.
Terraces project OK’d: For the better part of a decade, the tale of Deer Hill, which sits at the corner of Pleasant Hill Road and Highway 24, has gripped residents of Lafayette. Would the privately-owned site be home to townhouses, single-family homes (which numbered at times between four and 44) or, as it has now turned out, apartments?
In the wee hours of a Tuesday morning late last month, the City Council had the final say after scores of public hearings, thousands of pages of public comment and nearly 100 public speakers over two hearings. The five-member council voted to approve the Terraces of Lafayette project consisting of 315 apartments on the 22-acre site. The debate was impassioned, the decision-making process gripping. If you would like to watch what surely is a critical moment in Lafayette’s history, you can do so anytime on the city’s YouTube channel at bit.ly/LoveLafayetteYouTube.
Wildfire town hall: Some called it the best city-held meeting ever, and it was timely as never before. Recently, more than 60 people attended a town hall devoted to wildfire preparation. The three-hour meeting provided residents with detailed information from the Lafayette Police Department, the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (Con Fire) and Lamorinda CERT (Community Emergency Response Team).
A range of resources were also provided, and questions from the public were answered. It was a wealth of timely information on how to prepare for a wildfire and steps the city and Con Fire are taking to protect the public, from pre deployment strategies to wildfire cameras and the city’s emergency AM radio station that’s soon to be on the air. If you missed it, watch this important Town Hall on the city’s YouTube channel. And view a list of wildfire preparation resources at bit.ly/LafAreYouReady.
Council election: Lafayette’s candidates for City Council are Cameron Burks, Carl Anduri, Regina Dawson and Farschad Farzan. The four candidates are contesting three open seats. It will be a memorable election season in Lafayette, so don’t forget: The general election is Nov. 3. If you’re voting by mail, get your ballot into that mailbox early!
Be kind: As I’ve previously noted, the city of Lafayette proclaimed this year’s days of Sept. 1-21 as “BeKind 21” in Lafayette. #BeKind21 is the brainchild of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation, and everyone is invited to participate in the challenge by being kind to neighbors, friends, family members, fellow residents and themselves. Here’s is a list of #BeKind21 activities that the Lafayette community has developed to help you ensure kindness all the way around: bayareane.ws/2QYTpqG. Let’s make Lafayette the model of kindness! See you next month and stay safe.
Jeffrey Heyman can be reached at jheyman@lovelafayette.org. Follow him and the city of Lafayette on Twitter at @JeffHeyman and @LoveLafayette.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Me & My Car: 1918 Pierce-Arrow an impressive, elegant machine

Editor ’ s note : David Krumboltz ’ s regular column is on hiatus until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
In its place , we ’ re running some of Dave ’ s favorite past columns .
This one originally ran in April 2017 .
• Me & My Car : Owner rightly proud of ‘ brand-new ’ ’ 69 Charger • Me & My Car : ’ 71 Datsun 510 built for speed , not gas mileage • Me & My Car : Please don ’ t confuse this ’ 35 Plymouth for a Chevy • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Diamond truck perfect for antique business The car and the company were called Pierce-Arrow , but that wasn ’ t how they started .
The history goes back to 1878 , when George Pierce started a company that made birdcages , bathtubs and bicycles .
He made his first car in 1901 , but it was in 1904 when the Great Arrow was introduced at the hefty price of $ 4,000 ( about $ 108,000 in today ’ s dollars ) that established the reputation of the car and the Buffalo , New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , durability and endurance were the true quality tests of motor vehicles .
The Glidden Tours were the Super Bowl of automotive quality testing , and Pierce-Arrow won five annual tours in a row starting in 1905 .
The length of the tour increased each year , starting with an 1,100-mile tour , and by 1909 the tour was from Detroit to Kansas , a distance of 2,637 miles under difficult road conditions .
In 1909 , President William Howard Taft , a fan of Pierce-Arrow , ordered two cars for official White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House automobiles .
Pierce-Arrow cars were used as presidential vehicles through FDR ’ s administration .
It was clearly a symbol of wealth and status .
The best year for Pierce-Arrow was 1929 , when they sold almost 10,000 cars , all of them hand-built .
Another fan of Pierce-Arrow is San Leandro resident George Teebay .
He owns this issue ’ s 1918 Pierce-Arrow that was restored 30 years ago , as well as five other Pierce-Arrows .
“ I bought the car in January of last year .
I have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first saw it in 1998 , ” Teebay said .
“ I had some discussions with the owner in 2001 , but he didn ’ t want to part with it.
” Finally , the owner contacted Teebay , and they made a deal .
Teebay didn ’ t want to discuss the purchase price or current value but admitted it was in six-figure territory .
He believes there are probably 50 to 60 of these models still in existence worldwide .
When new , the base price for this Pierce-Arrow was $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today ’ s dollars .
It has a huge six-cylinder , 525-cubic-inch engine producing 110 horsepower .
The right-hand-drive car has a four-speed manual transmission that uses the standard “ H ” shift pattern .
The transmission is not synchronized , so double clutching is necessary to shift gears .
The shift lever along with the hand brake are to the right of the driver , so there is no right front door .
Two spare tires are strapped to the driver side running board , which is extended slightly for that purpose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left front door by stepping over the left front seat , or from the right rear door .
The company patented the distinctive in-fender headlights in 1914 .
The car has dark brown fenders with the body painted a medium green .
The factory would paint a car any color the buyer wanted for a fee , but this design and the stripping are period-correct .
The top does fold down , but it takes two people to do it , which is not an easy task .
“ These were very fast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stated .
“ Most cars in 1919 had a comfortable cruising speed of about 35 mph .
Of course , most of the roads were dirt or gravel at that time .
This Pierce-Arrow cruises comfortably at 50 to 55 mph.
” The five-passenger car has two sets of brakes on the rear wheels .
The foot brake pushes the brake shoes out against the brake drum , and the hand brake works against the outside of the brake drum .
“ You slow it with the foot brake , then you finalize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Teebay explained .
“ I like to tour it .
From January through November , I put 1,800 miles on it .
Part of it is the new toy syndrome , but it is just a delight to cruise in , and I travel with a group .
I ’ m going on a five-day tour out of Murphys ( in Calaveras County ) next April.
” I got an excursion , and it was impressive .
The 99-year-old car has a self-starter and the motor purred like the preverbal kitten , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I could tell Teebay was a veteran Pierce-Arrow driver , as he double clutched the gears with nary a grind .
It climbed steep hills in high gear , and he could stop the 5,100-pound car without difficulty .
The 142-inch wheelbase gives the elegant car a smooth ride .
I could see why this was a favorite among the Downton Abbey class .
What happened to Pierce-Arrow ?
It ’ s another sad automotive story .
“ It was the Depression that killed them , ” Teebay said .
“ There were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but didn ’ t want to flaunt their wealth when there were so many people in bread lines.
” In 1934 sales dropped to 1,740 cars , and by 1938 , when they declared bankruptcy , they sold fewer than 20 .
Have an interesting vehicle ?
Contact David Krumboltz at MOBopoly @ yahoo.com .
To view more photos of this and other issues ’ vehicles or to read more of Dave ’ s columns , visit mercurynews.com/author/david-krumboltz .

Editor’s note: David Krumboltz’s regular column is on hiatus until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In its place, we’re running some of Dave’s favorite past columns. This one originally ran in April 2017.
Related Articles Me & My Car: Owner rightly proud of ‘brand-new’ ’69 Charger
Me & My Car: ’71 Datsun 510 built for speed, not gas mileage
Me & My Car: Please don’t confuse this ’35 Plymouth for a Chevy
Me & My Car: ’48 Diamond truck perfect for antique business The car and the company were called Pierce-Arrow, but that wasn’t how they started. The history goes back to 1878, when George Pierce started a company that made birdcages, bathtubs and bicycles. He made his first car in 1901, but it was in 1904 when the Great Arrow was introduced at the hefty price of $4,000 (about $108,000 in today’s dollars) that established the reputation of the car and the Buffalo, New York, company.
In those days, durability and endurance were the true quality tests of motor vehicles. The Glidden Tours were the Super Bowl of automotive quality testing, and Pierce-Arrow won five annual tours in a row starting in 1905. The length of the tour increased each year, starting with an 1,100-mile tour, and by 1909 the tour was from Detroit to Kansas, a distance of 2,637 miles under difficult road conditions.
In 1909, President William Howard Taft, a fan of Pierce-Arrow, ordered two cars for official White House use, the first official White House automobiles. Pierce-Arrow cars were used as presidential vehicles through FDR’s administration. It was clearly a symbol of wealth and status. The best year for Pierce-Arrow was 1929, when they sold almost 10,000 cars, all of them hand-built.
Another fan of Pierce-Arrow is San Leandro resident George Teebay. He owns this issue’s 1918 Pierce-Arrow that was restored 30 years ago, as well as five other Pierce-Arrows.
“I bought the car in January of last year. I have been interested in acquiring this car since I first saw it in 1998,” Teebay said. “I had some discussions with the owner in 2001, but he didn’t want to part with it.”
Finally, the owner contacted Teebay, and they made a deal. Teebay didn’t want to discuss the purchase price or current value but admitted it was in six-figure territory. He believes there are probably 50 to 60 of these models still in existence worldwide.
When new, the base price for this Pierce-Arrow was $6,400, or about $112,800 in today’s dollars. It has a huge six-cylinder, 525-cubic-inch engine producing 110 horsepower. The right-hand-drive car has a four-speed manual transmission that uses the standard “H” shift pattern. The transmission is not synchronized, so double clutching is necessary to shift gears.
The shift lever along with the hand brake are to the right of the driver, so there is no right front door. Two spare tires are strapped to the driver side running board, which is extended slightly for that purpose. The driver either enters from the left front door by stepping over the left front seat, or from the right rear door. The company patented the distinctive in-fender headlights in 1914. The car has dark brown fenders with the body painted a medium green. The factory would paint a car any color the buyer wanted for a fee, but this design and the stripping are period-correct. The top does fold down, but it takes two people to do it, which is not an easy task.
“These were very fast cars for the day,” Teebay stated. “Most cars in 1919 had a comfortable cruising speed of about 35 mph. Of course, most of the roads were dirt or gravel at that time. This Pierce-Arrow cruises comfortably at 50 to 55 mph.”
The five-passenger car has two sets of brakes on the rear wheels. The foot brake pushes the brake shoes out against the brake drum, and the hand brake works against the outside of the brake drum.
“You slow it with the foot brake, then you finalize the stop with the hand brake,” Teebay explained. “I like to tour it. From January through November, I put 1,800 miles on it. Part of it is the new toy syndrome, but it is just a delight to cruise in, and I travel with a group. I’m going on a five-day tour out of Murphys (in Calaveras County) next April.”
I got an excursion, and it was impressive. The 99-year-old car has a self-starter and the motor purred like the preverbal kitten, or maybe a very big cat. I could tell Teebay was a veteran Pierce-Arrow driver, as he double clutched the gears with nary a grind. It climbed steep hills in high gear, and he could stop the 5,100-pound car without difficulty. The 142-inch wheelbase gives the elegant car a smooth ride. I could see why this was a favorite among the Downton Abbey class. What happened to Pierce-Arrow? It’s another sad automotive story.
“It was the Depression that killed them,” Teebay said. “There were people who could afford a new Pierce-Arrow but didn’t want to flaunt their wealth when there were so many people in bread lines.”
In 1934 sales dropped to 1,740 cars, and by 1938, when they declared bankruptcy, they sold fewer than 20.
Have an interesting vehicle? Contact David Krumboltz at MOBopoly@yahoo.com. To view more photos of this and other issues’ vehicles or to read more of Dave’s columns, visit mercurynews.com/author/david-krumboltz.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Brooks: What will you do if Trump doesn’t leave office?

On the evening of Nov. 3 , Americans settle nervously in front of their screens to await elections results .
In the early hours Donald Trump seems to be having an excellent night .
Counting the votes cast at polling places , Trump is winning Pennsylvania , Wisconsin and Michigan .
Those states don ’ t even begin processing mail-in ballots until Election Day , yet Trump quickly declares victory .
So do many other Republican candidates .
The media complains that it ’ s premature , but Trumpworld is ecstatic .
Democrats know that as many as 40 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being counted , and those votes are likely to be overwhelmingly for Joe Biden , but they can ’ t control the emotions of that night .
It ’ s a gut punch .
As the mail-in ballots are tallied , the Trump leads erode .
But the situation is genuinely unclear .
Trump is on the warpath , raging about fraud .
Within weeks there are lawsuits and challenges everywhere .
It ’ s like Florida in 2000 , but the chaos is happening in many states at once .
Trump says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the election and declares himself reelected .
It ’ s an outrage , but as when he used the White House for a campaign prop during his convention , who ’ s going to stop him ?
A certain kind of Republican takes to the streets to enforce Trump ’ s version of events .
According to research done by Larry Bartels of Vanderbilt , 50 % of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents believe “ the traditional American way of life is disappearing so fast that we may have to use force to save @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that “ A time will come when patriotic Americans have to take the law into their own hands.
” The left is in the streets , too .
On the fringe of the left there are those who want to overthrow the racist , cisgendered , patriarchal neoliberal oligarchy .
This is their chance at mayhem , too , and they seize it with sometimes violent passion .
But a new force looms into view .
For the whole Trump era a certain sort of conservative has been cowering from the Trump onslaught @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have also been keeping their heads down , so they won ’ t get bitten off by the woke mobs .
But now the very existence of the Republic is at stake .
It turns out , amid the existential crisis , there really is a group of sober people who are militant about America , who can see reality unblinkered by the lens of partisanship and who are finally compelled to organize .
They understand that , like so many American tragedies , this is largely about race .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of white-dominated America to a diverse America — and the people who will do anything to stop it .
Martin Luther King Jr. once argued that sin is buried so deep in the human soul that sweet words are insufficient to get people to give up their unjust power .
“ Instead of assured progress in wisdom and decency , ” he wrote , “ man faces the ever-present possibility of a swift relapse not merely to animalism , but into such calculated cruelty as no other animal can practice.
” But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s shadow also know that this crisis is not just about race , but also the greatness of American institutions , so scorned and derided of late , so neglected and abused .
If Trump claims a victory that is not rightly his , a few marches in the streets will not be an adequate response .
There may have to be a sustained campaign of civic action to rally the majority that wants to preserve democracy , that isolates those who would undo it .
Two themes would have to feature in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ardent patriotism .
The country survives such a crisis only if most people ’ s love of nation overwhelms the partisan fury that will threaten to envelop us .
The second is the preservation of constitutional order .
Through epic acts of self-discipline , the nonviolent civil rights marchers in the 1960s forced their foes to reveal that if there were to be any violence and anarchy , it would come from the foes .
That ’ s how the movement captured the moral high ground and won the mind of the nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accurate election outcome , before it is too late , would be a struggle to preserve the order of our civic structure against the myriad foes who talk blithely about tearing down systems , disorder and disruption .
It may be how we rediscover our nation again .
It ’ s time to start thinking about what you would do .

On the evening of Nov. 3, Americans settle nervously in front of their screens to await elections results. In the early hours Donald Trump seems to be having an excellent night. Counting the votes cast at polling places, Trump is winning Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Michigan.
Those states don’t even begin processing mail-in ballots until Election Day, yet Trump quickly declares victory. So do many other Republican candidates. The media complains that it’s premature, but Trumpworld is ecstatic.
Democrats know that as many as 40% of the ballots are mail-in and still being counted, and those votes are likely to be overwhelmingly for Joe Biden, but they can’t control the emotions of that night. It’s a gut punch.
As the mail-in ballots are tallied, the Trump leads erode. But the situation is genuinely unclear. Trump is on the warpath, raging about fraud.
Within weeks there are lawsuits and challenges everywhere. It’s like Florida in 2000, but the chaos is happening in many states at once.
Trump says he won’t let Democrats steal the election and declares himself reelected. It’s an outrage, but as when he used the White House for a campaign prop during his convention, who’s going to stop him?
A certain kind of Republican takes to the streets to enforce Trump’s version of events. According to research done by Larry Bartels of Vanderbilt, 50% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents believe “the traditional American way of life is disappearing so fast that we may have to use force to save it.” Nearly as many believe, that “A time will come when patriotic Americans have to take the law into their own hands.”
The left is in the streets, too. On the fringe of the left there are those who want to overthrow the racist, cisgendered, patriarchal neoliberal oligarchy. This is their chance at mayhem, too, and they seize it with sometimes violent passion.
But a new force looms into view. For the whole Trump era a certain sort of conservative has been cowering from the Trump onslaught. Certain sorts of moderates and liberals have also been keeping their heads down, so they won’t get bitten off by the woke mobs. But now the very existence of the Republic is at stake.
It turns out, amid the existential crisis, there really is a group of sober people who are militant about America, who can see reality unblinkered by the lens of partisanship and who are finally compelled to organize.
They understand that, like so many American tragedies, this is largely about race. It’s about the transition from a certain kind of white-dominated America to a diverse America — and the people who will do anything to stop it.
Martin Luther King Jr. once argued that sin is buried so deep in the human soul that sweet words are insufficient to get people to give up their unjust power. “Instead of assured progress in wisdom and decency,” he wrote, “man faces the ever-present possibility of a swift relapse not merely to animalism, but into such calculated cruelty as no other animal can practice.”
But the realist militants who walk in King’s shadow also know that this crisis is not just about race, but also the greatness of American institutions, so scorned and derided of late, so neglected and abused.
If Trump claims a victory that is not rightly his, a few marches in the streets will not be an adequate response. There may have to be a sustained campaign of civic action to rally the majority that wants to preserve democracy, that isolates those who would undo it.
Two themes would have to feature in such civic action. The first is ardent patriotism. The country survives such a crisis only if most people’s love of nation overwhelms the partisan fury that will threaten to envelop us.
The second is the preservation of constitutional order. Through epic acts of self-discipline, the nonviolent civil rights marchers in the 1960s forced their foes to reveal that if there were to be any violence and anarchy, it would come from the foes. That’s how the movement captured the moral high ground and won the mind of the nation.
The process of mobilizing for an accurate election outcome, before it is too late, would be a struggle to preserve the order of our civic structure against the myriad foes who talk blithely about tearing down systems, disorder and disruption. It may be how we rediscover our nation again.
It’s time to start thinking about what you would do.
David Brooks is a New York Times columnist.


Bridge: Sept. 6, 2020

Unlucky Louie , who has two daughters away at college , was griping in the club lounge about the skyrocketing cost of a college education .
We all agreed that it has become outrageous .
“ It ’ s the opposite of a kidnapping , ” Louie told us .
“ Unless you pay the bursar $ 75,000 , he sends your daughter back home.
” I don ’ t know how much Louie loses every year in our penny Chicago games , but it might amount to a semester ’ s tuition .
In today ’ s deal , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two passes followed , Louie balanced with a bid of two hearts .
North ’ s raise to four hearts was aggressive : Louie might have , and did have , only an average hand to balance .
Moreover , North could rely on Louie to misplay , and so it proved .
West cashed two high spades and continued with a third spade .
Louie ruffed in dummy and led a trump to his ace , refusing to finesse .
He correctly placed West with the king for his opening bid and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ queen of trumps next , West won and led the eight of clubs , marooning Louie in dummy .
Needing to return to his hand to draw West ’ s ten of trumps , he took the A-K and ruffed a club , but West overruffed .
Louie finessed in diamonds later and went down only one .
Louie ’ s timing was imprecise , and he was duly punished .
After Louie takes the ace of trumps , he must cash the A-K of clubs , then lead a second trump to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he has no more clubs and must lead a spade ( or a diamond ) .
Louie can win , draw West ’ s last trump and pick up the diamonds to make the contract .

Unlucky Louie, who has two daughters away at college, was griping in the club lounge about the skyrocketing cost of a college education. We all agreed that it has become outrageous.
“It’s the opposite of a kidnapping,” Louie told us. “Unless you pay the bursar $75,000, he sends your daughter back home.”
I don’t know how much Louie loses every year in our penny Chicago games, but it might amount to a semester’s tuition. In today’s deal, West opened one spade, and when two passes followed, Louie balanced with a bid of two hearts. North’s raise to four hearts was aggressive: Louie might have, and did have, only an average hand to balance.
Moreover, North could rely on Louie to misplay, and so it proved. West cashed two high spades and continued with a third spade. Louie ruffed in dummy and led a trump to his ace, refusing to finesse. He correctly placed West with the king for his opening bid and rebid.
But when Louie led the queen of trumps next, West won and led the eight of clubs, marooning Louie in dummy. Needing to return to his hand to draw West’s ten of trumps, he took the A-K and ruffed a club, but West overruffed. Louie finessed in diamonds later and went down only one.
Louie’s timing was imprecise, and he was duly punished. After Louie takes the ace of trumps, he must cash the A-K of clubs, then lead a second trump to his queen. When West wins, he has no more clubs and must lead a spade (or a diamond). Louie can win, draw West’s last trump and pick up the diamonds to make the contract.
West dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S 8 5
H 7 4 2
D A 10 4
C A K 6 5 2
WEST
S A K Q 9 3
H K 10 5
D K 7 5
C J 8
EAST
S 7 6 4
H 9 6
D 9 8 6 3
C Q 10 9 4
SOUTH
S J 10 2
H A Q J 8 3
D Q J 2
C 7 3
West North East South
1 S Pass Pass 2 H
2 S 4 H All Pass
Opening lead — S K
(C)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Horoscopes Sept. 6, 2020: Idris Elba, risks will turn out to be counterproductive

Happy Birthday : Keep an open mind , listen to what others have to say and work within the confines you face .
Set down ground rules and stick to a budget , and you will reach the goal you set in the time allotted .
Take precautions concerning joint ventures , legal matters , contracts and your health .
Risks will turn out to be counterproductive .
Your numbers are 3 , 14 , 22 , 29 , 33 , 42 , 45 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Use charm if you want to gain someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your emotions take over and your anger mount , you won ’ t come to terms with someone who doesn ’ t think or feel the same way you do .
Be willing to compromise .
3 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Look for an opportunity to bring about change .
Move forward with an open mind and the intent to be mindful of others .
Refuse to let stubbornness or differences stand between you and getting what you want .
3 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 ) : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you up ; ulterior motives are probably behind compliments .
Pay attention to the way you look and feel .
Pampering will be energizing and give you a chance to distance yourself from a stressful situation .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Gravitate toward positive people who lift your spirits and contribute to the pursuits that make you happy .
The more time spent on love and romance , the easier it will be for you and the people you care about most .
2 stars LEO ( July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back and review what ’ s transpired .
Make decisions for the right reason , not because someone is pressuring you .
Concentrate on what ’ s doable and whatever will also help bring about a positive lifestyle change .
5 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Emotional situations will escalate if you aren ’ t willing to compromise .
Look at every situation you face carefully , and you ’ ll find an alternative route that will lead to a workable agreement .
Change is necessary if you want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Avoid tense or stressful situations .
Plan to do your own thing and avoid letting demanding people infringe on your privacy .
Don ’ t waste time getting angry at someone or something that you can not change .
Focus on self-improvement and taking better care of your health .
3 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Stay in the loop , ask questions and be open to change .
Discuss emotional concerns with someone you love before you decide to take action .
Time is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the truth will be your best options .
3 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Don ’ t take a risk when it comes to money , health or joint ventures .
Put your energy into personal improvement , physical fitness and work options that allow you to safely use your skills .
Use charm to get your way .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Stick close to home and the people you love the most .
Nurture relationships , and set a good example for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improvements will make your life easier and your popularity with those you live with grow .
5 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Be smart and innovative when dealing with friends and relatives .
A last-minute change someone makes will leave you feeling betrayed .
Take a step back , consider what you can do to compensate and go about your business .
Avoid health risks .
2 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : Logic and reason will be necessary to help you avoid a situation that is confining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help someone without taking the necessary precautions .
Be smart about the decisions you make , and be charming in order to avoid backlash .
4 stars Birthday Baby : You are sensitive , emotional and unpredictable .
You are unique and innovative .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Idris Elba, 48; Rosie Perez, 56; Jane Curtin, 73; Swoosie Kurtz, 76.
Happy Birthday: Keep an open mind, listen to what others have to say and work within the confines you face. Set down ground rules and stick to a budget, and you will reach the goal you set in the time allotted. Take precautions concerning joint ventures, legal matters, contracts and your health. Risks will turn out to be counterproductive. Your numbers are 3, 14, 22, 29, 33, 42, 45.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Use charm if you want to gain someone’s support. If you let your emotions take over and your anger mount, you won’t come to terms with someone who doesn’t think or feel the same way you do. Be willing to compromise. 3 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Look for an opportunity to bring about change. Move forward with an open mind and the intent to be mindful of others. Refuse to let stubbornness or differences stand between you and getting what you want. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Be wary of anyone trying to chat you up; ulterior motives are probably behind compliments. Pay attention to the way you look and feel. Pampering will be energizing and give you a chance to distance yourself from a stressful situation. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Gravitate toward positive people who lift your spirits and contribute to the pursuits that make you happy. The more time spent on love and romance, the easier it will be for you and the people you care about most. 2 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take a step back and review what’s transpired. Make decisions for the right reason, not because someone is pressuring you. Concentrate on what’s doable and whatever will also help bring about a positive lifestyle change. 5 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Emotional situations will escalate if you aren’t willing to compromise. Look at every situation you face carefully, and you’ll find an alternative route that will lead to a workable agreement. Change is necessary if you want to get ahead. 5 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Avoid tense or stressful situations. Plan to do your own thing and avoid letting demanding people infringe on your privacy. Don’t waste time getting angry at someone or something that you cannot change. Focus on self-improvement and taking better care of your health. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Stay in the loop, ask questions and be open to change. Discuss emotional concerns with someone you love before you decide to take action. Time is on your side; observation, facts and the truth will be your best options. 3 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Don’t take a risk when it comes to money, health or joint ventures. Put your energy into personal improvement, physical fitness and work options that allow you to safely use your skills. Use charm to get your way. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Stick close to home and the people you love the most. Nurture relationships, and set a good example for someone experiencing uncertainty or confusion. Home improvements will make your life easier and your popularity with those you live with grow. 5 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be smart and innovative when dealing with friends and relatives. A last-minute change someone makes will leave you feeling betrayed. Take a step back, consider what you can do to compensate and go about your business. Avoid health risks. 2 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Logic and reason will be necessary to help you avoid a situation that is confining. Don’t feel you have to help someone without taking the necessary precautions. Be smart about the decisions you make, and be charming in order to avoid backlash. 4 stars
Birthday Baby: You are sensitive, emotional and unpredictable. You are unique and innovative.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Word Game: Sept. 6, 2020

Word Game: Sept. 6, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — TONSURE ( TONSURE : TON-shur : The act of shaving the head or part of the head . )
Can you find 58 or more words in TONSURE ?
TODAY ’ S WORD — TONSURE tenor tensor tern tone toner tore torn tour true tune tuner turn onset onus ours oust ouster outer nest noes nose note noter nurse senor sent snore snort snout sone sore sort sour steno stern stone store stun suer suet sure unrest unto user rent rest rose rote roue rouse roust rout route rune runt ruse rust euro To purchase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
Words must be of four or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “ s , ” such as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
Additional words made by adding a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For example , if “ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — TONSURE (TONSURE: TON-shur: The act of shaving the head or part of the head.)
Average mark 45 words
Time limit 60 minutes
Can you find 58 or more words in TONSURE?
TODAY’S WORD — TONSURE tenor tensor tern tone toner tore torn tour true tune
tuner turn onset onus ours oust ouster outer nest noes nose note noter nurse senor
sent snore snort snout sone sore sort sour steno stern stone store stun suer suet
sure unrest unto user rent rest rose rote roue rouse roust rout route rune runt ruse
rust euro
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


mercurynews--2020-09-06--Ask Amy: My boyfriend’s son likes me — maybe too much?

Dear Amy : I ’ ve been dating a single dad for just over a year .
He only gets to see his 4-year-old son for a limited time each month , as his ex lives several hours away .
Over the past six months or so , we have been slowly increasing my time spent with his son ( playing , blanket fort campouts , occasional outings around town ) .
It seems like his son has really warmed to me .
He even asks that I come over to see them both .
I ’ ve never been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ honored that his kiddo wants me to be around .
However , recently it seems like my boyfriend resents that his son wants me to be there ( almost like he wishes that his son wanted to hang out with him alone ) .
• Ask Amy : I want to hike alone , and she ’ s not going to be happy about it • Ask Amy : Did he think he could get away with it because of his mask ?
• Ask Amy : How do I make them see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amy : This secret ripped our family apart and destroyed an old woman ’ s life • Ask Amy : My stepmom dropped a bombshell while we were camping I don ’ t know what to make of this .
I always figured that if the son likes me , then that ’ s a major win in the relationship category .
Is this a form of parental jealousy ?
Dear Wondering : Your boyfriend is acting jealous because he probably is jealous .
Jealousy is a real human emotion , and parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favorite teachers , aunts and uncles , spouses and partners because parents are human .
Parents are not perfect and don ’ t always respond in ideal ways .
And as much as children receive from their parents , parents also crave their children ’ s love and attention in return .
The age of 4 is a particularly wonderful stage of childhood , Children this age tend to be lively , fun , affectionate , and fascinating .
Because his time with his son is precious — and fleeting — your guy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely conflicted because he wants to spend time with both you and his son .
You should ask your guy to be honest with you regarding his son ’ s affection for you .
Let him know that you will support his relationship with his child in whatever ways the father needs , including making sure the two have plenty of alone time .
If this dad can establish a nice routine ( a “ Dad ’ s night ” followed by a playdate with you the next day ) , this will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and create unique and private experiences for them to share .
Dear Amy : I recently graduated college and was surprised to receive a card and $ 100 in the mail from an uncle I am somewhat estranged from .
He is a toxic person who is very difficult to be around , although I ’ ve always tried to be cordial .
He has truly caused hurt for people in my family and shows no signs of changing .
I decided to thank him for his gift through a nice , private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My parents found out , however , and are angry that I didn ’ t call to thank him personally for such a generous gift .
They said if I ’ m so against having a relationship with him , I should return the money .
Amy , in my current financial situation , I can ’ t afford to pass up a gift , and I think it would do more harm than good to return it !
I can ’ t bear the thought of speaking with this person on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dear Graduate : You have reached a milestone in your development .
One aspect of this stage in your life is that you can ( and should ) take your parents ’ recommendations into account , but you don ’ t have to follow them .
In terms of your relationship to this particular uncle , you are not a placeholder for the rest of the family .
You thanked him sincerely through a private channel , and he acknowledged your thanks .
I agree with you that returning this money is unwarranted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sort of behavior is how longstanding estrangements gain fuel .
You have already thanked your uncle , but if you also popped a card in the mail reiterating your thanks and adding a couple of details about your plans for the future , it would be appropriate , and he would no doubt welcome it .
I assume your mother would also be satisfied .
Dear Amy : “ Befuddled Guest ” was struggling handling a fellow guest ’ s gender transition because she hadn ’ t been told in advance .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been handled differently by all parties , but most importantly , Befuddled didn ’ t bother to introduce herself .
Why is it the other person ’ s job to make Befuddled feel more comfortable ?
Dear Aware : Exactly .
When you introduce yourself , and ask for someone else ’ s name , you have all the information you need .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Facebook .

Dear Amy: I’ve been dating a single dad for just over a year.
He only gets to see his 4-year-old son for a limited time each month, as his ex lives several hours away.
Over the past six months or so, we have been slowly increasing my time spent with his son (playing, blanket fort campouts, occasional outings around town).
It seems like his son has really warmed to me. He even asks that I come over to see them both. I’ve never been around children, so I feel very honored that his kiddo wants me to be around.
However, recently it seems like my boyfriend resents that his son wants me to be there (almost like he wishes that his son wanted to hang out with him alone).
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Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy I don’t know what to make of this. I always figured that if the son likes me, then that’s a major win in the relationship category.
Is this a form of parental jealousy?
Wondering
Dear Wondering: Your boyfriend is acting jealous because he probably is jealous. Jealousy is a real human emotion, and parents sometimes feel jealousy toward their kids’ favorite teachers, aunts and uncles, spouses and partners because parents are human.
Parents are not perfect and don’t always respond in ideal ways. And as much as children receive from their parents, parents also crave their children’s love and attention in return.
The age of 4 is a particularly wonderful stage of childhood, Children this age tend to be lively, fun, affectionate, and fascinating. Because his time with his son is precious — and fleeting — your guy wants to hoard it. He is likely conflicted because he wants to spend time with both you and his son.
You should ask your guy to be honest with you regarding his son’s affection for you. Let him know that you will support his relationship with his child in whatever ways the father needs, including making sure the two have plenty of alone time. If this dad can establish a nice routine (a “Dad’s night” followed by a playdate with you the next day), this will give the two more time to bond and create unique and private experiences for them to share.
Dear Amy: I recently graduated college and was surprised to receive a card and $100 in the mail from an uncle I am somewhat estranged from.
He is a toxic person who is very difficult to be around, although I’ve always tried to be cordial. He has truly caused hurt for people in my family and shows no signs of changing.
I decided to thank him for his gift through a nice, private Facebook message. He replied graciously.
My parents found out, however, and are angry that I didn’t call to thank him personally for such a generous gift.
They said if I’m so against having a relationship with him, I should return the money. Amy, in my current financial situation, I can’t afford to pass up a gift, and I think it would do more harm than good to return it!
I can’t bear the thought of speaking with this person on the phone.
What should I do?
New Graduate
Dear Graduate: You have reached a milestone in your development. One aspect of this stage in your life is that you can (and should) take your parents’ recommendations into account, but you don’t have to follow them.
In terms of your relationship to this particular uncle, you are not a placeholder for the rest of the family. You thanked him sincerely through a private channel, and he acknowledged your thanks.
I agree with you that returning this money is unwarranted and would be extremely insulting. This sort of behavior is how longstanding estrangements gain fuel.
You have already thanked your uncle, but if you also popped a card in the mail reiterating your thanks and adding a couple of details about your plans for the future, it would be appropriate, and he would no doubt welcome it. I assume your mother would also be satisfied.
Dear Amy: “Befuddled Guest” was struggling handling a fellow guest’s gender transition because she hadn’t been told in advance.
I agree with you that this could have been handled differently by all parties, but most importantly, Befuddled didn’t bother to introduce herself. Why is it the other person’s job to make Befuddled feel more comfortable?
Aware
Dear Aware: Exactly. When you introduce yourself, and ask for someone else’s name, you have all the information you need.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.