mercurynews--2020-10-10--‘Butter Royale’ spices up competition with time-limited game modes

“ Butter Royale ” has advanced a lot since it was introduced earlier this year in the “ Before Times ” of the coronavirus .
Since then , the gaming landscape has changed as developers adjusted to the new normal .
Games such as “ Fall Guys : Ultimate Knockout ” and “ Among Us ” have become surprise hits and they reflect a wave of evolving tastes .
Simon Davis , co-founder and CEO of Mighty Bear , said his team has been following that trend as they work to update “ Butter Royale.
” He listed off a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ battle royale game ’ s introduction .
They emphasized squad play with special quests called # squadgoals .
The developer has added streaming and social support within the game .
They even added new weapons such as the Piercing Pancakes , Durian Launcher and the recent Hot Sauce Squirty .
They also added limited use power-ups that give players an attack boost or health over time .
As the game moves into the holidays , Davis said the team is moving toward time-limited events .
Click here if you are having trouble viewing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ device “ It ’ s pumpkin season , ” he said , ” and there ’ s an online event called Night of the Living Bread .
It ’ s themed around Halloween and you have a melee mode with baguettes.
” The event , which goes from Oct. 23 to Oct 25 and Oct. 28 to Oct. 31 , follows a series of celebrations that tweak the game rules and puts players in unfamiliar positions .
As he mentioned before , Night of Living Bread is all about melee combat within a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the event .
In the upcoming Sniparmesan Creamout event on Oct. 10 and 11 , “ Butter Roayle ” switches things up by focusing on the demanding long-range weapon .
Every player gets one and they fire off one-shot eliminations at adversaries .
The most recent celebreat called Duos made its return and let players compete in two-competitor squads .
The revolving formats add a dose of freshness to the family-friendly battle royale game .
Players can still jump in the solo or squad modes , but the expiration dates on these special @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least once .
All that work has drawn in two different types of gamers , according to Davis .
The first is the hard-core crowd .
The game appeals to them because they get a fun and low-commitment experience without the toxic environment .
On the other hand , the other big demographic are parents who want to have a fun battle royale game with their children .
“ Butter Royale ” fits nicely into that niche .
Whatever the case , “ Butter Royale ” isn ’ t a Apple Arcade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Although it ’ s one of the most well-received games on the service , Mighty Bear wants to keep experimenting with the battle royale genre .
“ Everyone is copying each other and working from the same template , ” said Davis .
“ For us , there ’ s nothing sacred .
We can do things that are a lot less traditional.
” The only ethos that the company is sticking to is that the team wants to keep its wholesome community .
It ’ s one of the characteristics that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Butter Royale ” can be found on Apple Arcade for iOS devices .

“Butter Royale” has advanced a lot since it was introduced earlier this year in the “Before Times” of the coronavirus. Since then, the gaming landscape has changed as developers adjusted to the new normal. Games such as “Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout” and “Among Us” have become surprise hits and they reflect a wave of evolving tastes.
Simon Davis, co-founder and CEO of Mighty Bear, said his team has been following that trend as they work to update “Butter Royale.” He listed off a series of new features since the top-down battle royale game’s introduction. They emphasized squad play with special quests called #squadgoals. The developer has added streaming and social support within the game. They even added new weapons such as the Piercing Pancakes, Durian Launcher and the recent Hot Sauce Squirty. They also added limited use power-ups that give players an attack boost or health over time.
As the game moves into the holidays, Davis said the team is moving toward time-limited events.
In addition to the regular modes, time-limited events offer a new twist on standard gameplay. (Mighty Bear)
The Sniparmesan Creamout event runs from Oct. 10 to 11.
Night of the Living Bread is one of the time limited modes coming to "Butter Royale" during the holiday season. (Mighty Bear)
Night of the Living Bread will be a Halloween-themed event that focuses on melee combat. (Mighty Bear)
The Hot Sauce Squirty is a new weapon in "Butter Royale." (Mighty Bear)
Click here if you are having trouble viewing the gallery and video on your mobile device
“It’s pumpkin season,” he said,” and there’s an online event called Night of the Living Bread. It’s themed around Halloween and you have a melee mode with baguettes.”
The event, which goes from Oct. 23 to Oct 25 and Oct. 28 to Oct. 31, follows a series of celebrations that tweak the game rules and puts players in unfamiliar positions. As he mentioned before, Night of Living Bread is all about melee combat within a map that’s made specifically for the event. In the upcoming Sniparmesan Creamout event on Oct. 10 and 11, “Butter Roayle” switches things up by focusing on the demanding long-range weapon. Every player gets one and they fire off one-shot eliminations at adversaries. The most recent celebreat called Duos made its return and let players compete in two-competitor squads.
The revolving formats add a dose of freshness to the family-friendly battle royale game. Players can still jump in the solo or squad modes, but the expiration dates on these special events nudges players to check them out at least once.
All that work has drawn in two different types of gamers, according to Davis. The first is the hard-core crowd. The game appeals to them because they get a fun and low-commitment experience without the toxic environment. On the other hand, the other big demographic are parents who want to have a fun battle royale game with their children. “Butter Royale” fits nicely into that niche.
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What to play: ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ will keep gamers busy during August Entertainment | ‘First Descendant’ crossplay beta delayed until September but will be open to all Whatever the case, “Butter Royale” isn’t a Apple Arcade game that will rest on its laurels. Although it’s one of the most well-received games on the service, Mighty Bear wants to keep experimenting with the battle royale genre.
“Everyone is copying each other and working from the same template,” said Davis. “For us, there’s nothing sacred. We can do things that are a lot less traditional.”
The only ethos that the company is sticking to is that the team wants to keep its wholesome community. It’s one of the characteristics that separates it from other franchises.
“That differentiates us,” Davis said. “It’s intentional to us.”
“Butter Royale” can be found on Apple Arcade for iOS devices.


mercurynews--2020-10-10--California propositions: What you should know before voting

The vote for president may be the item on the ballot that is drawing the most attention , but California voters are faced with another slate of propositions .
Of the 12 measures on this year ’ s ballot , some may feel very familiar .
Others are all new .
It ’ s a lot to consider .
And now that ballots have been mailed to Californians , it ’ s a good time to find out what each proposition is about .
Vote yes for this and state taxpayers will be on the hook for $ 5.5 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Institute for Regenerative Medicine ( CIRM ) , a program created in 2004 to boost stem cell research .
A vote against it would save money , but it might kill CIRM .
The 16-year-old program ran out of its initial funding last year and it hasn ’ t taken on new research since last summer , according to the state .
Stem cells , if you ’ re wondering , are used in medical research on everything from nerve disorders and blindness to tooth decay .
Read our recommendation on how to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Commercial and Industrial Properties for Education and Local Government Funding A yes vote would essentially create two distinct tracks ( “ split roll ” ) for state property taxes – one for most commercial buildings and another for residential dwellings .
Under Prop .
15 , the tax rate on most commercial and industrial properties would be based on the building ’ s market value , not its original purchase price .
Exceptions would be made for buildings used in agriculture and for buildings owned by individuals or companies with less than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Overall , the state estimates it would generate up to $ 12.5 billion a year in new taxes from the owners of commercial properties .
A no vote would leave California ’ s Prop .
13 tax rules intact .
All residential structures in California would continue to be taxed as they are now , with annual tax hikes jumping no more than the rate of inflation or 2 % , whichever is lower .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote on Prop .
16 would make @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , among other things , as potentially favorable factors when it comes to making decisions about public employment , public education and public contracting .
Technically , Prop .
16 is a constitutional amendment to repeal Prop .
209 , a 1996 constitutional amendment approved by voters that ended the use of affirmative action in California .
Thus , a no vote would uphold Prop .
209 .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote for Prop .
17 would make it legal for people to vote while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Right now , in California , felons can ’ t vote until after they ’ ve served both their prison sentence and any parole .
So we ’ re clear , Prop .
17 does not propose letting felons vote while in prison .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote would allow 17-year-olds to vote in any primary or special election if they will turn 18 by the following general election Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
Proposition 19 : Property Tax Transfers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Counties This complicated grab bag of a proposal would allow older homeowners ( those 55 and older ) , as well as disabled people and anyone who lost properties in a natural disaster , to take some of their property tax base with them when they sell a home and buy a new one .
It also would make it harder to keep a low property tax rate while transferring properties between generations .
And , finally , some of the new money generated by these changes would be used to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on how to vote here .
A yes vote for Prop .
20 would add to the state ’ s list of “ wobbler ” crimes , violations that currently are misdemeanors but , under this proposal , could be charged as felonies in some circumstances .
Such crimes include organized petty theft , credit card scams and stealing a firearm , among others .
Prop .
20 also would create stiffer penalties for people who violate terms of their parole three times and make it tougher for those convicted of certain crimes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considered for early parole .
Finally , Prop .
20 would require that DNA samples be taken from people convicted of some misdemeanors .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote on Prop .
21 would let cities write new rent control laws for older housing ( 15 years and older ) or expand any rent control rules they already have on the books .
The proposal carves out an exception for single-family homes owned by landlords with no more than two properties .
And , while Prop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rental Housing Act ( Costa-Hawkins ) of 1995 , it would not change the 7 % rent hike limit set by state lawmakers last year .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote on Prop .
22 would make an employee of gig-based companies such as Lyft or Uber an independent contractor — same as before the passage of AB 5 , which took effect in September 2019 .
Under Prop .
22 , rideshare and delivery companies that depend on such workers would not have to pay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they would have to provide an earnings floor and some money to purchase health insurance and mileage , among other things .
A no vote on Prop .
22 means existing law – including AB 5 – will apply to gig workers .
It ’ s important to note that Prop .
22 is about people who use their own cars and cell phones as keys to their trade .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote on Prop .
23 would mean at least one physician would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operating dialysis clinic .
It also would require clinics to report on infections and get health department approval to close .
And it would prohibit clinics from discriminating against patients based on how they pay for the clinic ’ s services .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
A yes vote on Prop .
24 would expand and add to California ’ s 2-year-old law on consumer data privacy and its reuse .
Consumers could prohibit companies from sharing their personal information for any reason and shorten the period companies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Prop .
24 also would create a Privacy Protection Agency to enforce the new rules .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .
• As questions linger about his health , Trump plans campaign rallies • Watch : Steph Curry teams up with Joe Biden to talk to Charlotte kids about voting • Editorial : Voters should oust the last of the ‘ Alum Rock Three ’ • Opinion : Vote no on Prop .
15 , the misleading property tax initiative Two years ago , state legislators passed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cash bail in California .
A yes vote on Prop .
25 would keep that law in place , replacing cash bail with a risk assessment system that would let people wait for trial at home based on a variety of factors .
A no vote on Prop .
25 would maintain the cash bail system , letting people stay or leave jail while awaiting trial based largely on their ability to pay .
Read our recommendation on how to vote here .

The vote for president may be the item on the ballot that is drawing the most attention, but California voters are faced with another slate of propositions.
Of the 12 measures on this year’s ballot, some may feel very familiar. Others are all new.
It’s a lot to consider. And now that ballots have been mailed to Californians, it’s a good time to find out what each proposition is about.
Here’s a primer:
Proposition 14: Stem Cell Research Institute Bond
Vote yes for this and state taxpayers will be on the hook for $5.5 billion in bonds aimed at reviving the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM), a program created in 2004 to boost stem cell research.
A vote against it would save money, but it might kill CIRM. The 16-year-old program ran out of its initial funding last year and it hasn’t taken on new research since last summer, according to the state.
Stem cells, if you’re wondering, are used in medical research on everything from nerve disorders and blindness to tooth decay.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 15: Tax on Commercial and Industrial Properties for Education and Local Government Funding
A yes vote would essentially create two distinct tracks (“split roll”) for state property taxes – one for most commercial buildings and another for residential dwellings.
Under Prop. 15, the tax rate on most commercial and industrial properties would be based on the building’s market value, not its original purchase price. Exceptions would be made for buildings used in agriculture and for buildings owned by individuals or companies with less than $3 million in other assets. Overall, the state estimates it would generate up to $12.5 billion a year in new taxes from the owners of commercial properties.
A no vote would leave California’s Prop. 13 tax rules intact. All residential structures in California would continue to be taxed as they are now, with annual tax hikes jumping no more than the rate of inflation or 2%, whichever is lower.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 16: Repeal Proposition 209 Affirmative Action Amendment
A yes vote on Prop. 16 would make it legal to consider race and gender, among other things, as potentially favorable factors when it comes to making decisions about public employment, public education and public contracting.
Technically, Prop. 16 is a constitutional amendment to repeal Prop. 209, a 1996 constitutional amendment approved by voters that ended the use of affirmative action in California.
Thus, a no vote would uphold Prop. 209.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 17: Voting Rights Restoration for Persons on Parole
A yes vote for Prop. 17 would make it legal for people to vote while on parole for a felony conviction. Right now, in California, felons can’t vote until after they’ve served both their prison sentence and any parole. So we’re clear, Prop. 17 does not propose letting felons vote while in prison.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 18: Primary Voting for 17-Year-Olds
A yes vote would allow 17-year-olds to vote in any primary or special election if they will turn 18 by the following general election
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 19: Property Tax Transfers, Exemptions, and Revenue for Wildfire Agencies and Counties
This complicated grab bag of a proposal would allow older homeowners (those 55 and older), as well as disabled people and anyone who lost properties in a natural disaster, to take some of their property tax base with them when they sell a home and buy a new one.
It also would make it harder to keep a low property tax rate while transferring properties between generations.
And, finally, some of the new money generated by these changes would be used to help pay for firefighting.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 20: Criminal Sentencing, Parole, and DNA Collection
A yes vote for Prop. 20 would add to the state’s list of “wobbler” crimes, violations that currently are misdemeanors but, under this proposal, could be charged as felonies in some circumstances. Such crimes include organized petty theft, credit card scams and stealing a firearm, among others.
Prop. 20 also would create stiffer penalties for people who violate terms of their parole three times and make it tougher for those convicted of certain crimes – including domestic violence – to be considered for early parole. Finally, Prop. 20 would require that DNA samples be taken from people convicted of some misdemeanors.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 21: Local Rent Control
A yes vote on Prop. 21 would let cities write new rent control laws for older housing (15 years and older) or expand any rent control rules they already have on the books.
The proposal carves out an exception for single-family homes owned by landlords with no more than two properties. And, while Prop. 21 would wipe out the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act (Costa-Hawkins) of 1995, it would not change the 7% rent hike limit set by state lawmakers last year.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 22: App-Based Drivers as Contractors and Labor Policies
A yes vote on Prop. 22 would make an employee of gig-based companies such as Lyft or Uber an independent contractor — same as before the passage of AB 5, which took effect in September 2019.
Under Prop. 22, rideshare and delivery companies that depend on such workers would not have to pay standard wage and hour restrictions, though they would have to provide an earnings floor and some money to purchase health insurance and mileage, among other things.
A no vote on Prop. 22 means existing law – including AB 5 – will apply to gig workers.
It’s important to note that Prop. 22 is about people who use their own cars and cell phones as keys to their trade.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 23: Dialysis Clinic Requirements
A yes vote on Prop. 23 would mean at least one physician would have to be on site at an operating dialysis clinic. It also would require clinics to report on infections and get health department approval to close. And it would prohibit clinics from discriminating against patients based on how they pay for the clinic’s services.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 24: Consumer Personal Information Law and Agency
A yes vote on Prop. 24 would expand and add to California’s 2-year-old law on consumer data privacy and its reuse. Consumers could prohibit companies from sharing their personal information for any reason and shorten the period companies currently are given to fix the problem.
Prop. 24 also would create a Privacy Protection Agency to enforce the new rules.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Proposition 25: Replace Cash Bail with Risk Assessments
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Rosen: Moving beyond thoughts and prayers to solutions on guns Election | California voters made public records a right, will they give it more teeth? Two years ago, state legislators passed a law (SB 10) to end cash bail in California. A yes vote on Prop. 25 would keep that law in place, replacing cash bail with a risk assessment system that would let people wait for trial at home based on a variety of factors.
A no vote on Prop. 25 would maintain the cash bail system, letting people stay or leave jail while awaiting trial based largely on their ability to pay.
Read our recommendation on how to vote here.
Southern California News Group writer Andre Mouchard contributed to this story.


mercurynews--2020-10-09--As questions linger about his health, Trump plans campaign rallies

By Zeke Miller , Jonathan Lemire and Jill Colvin | Associated Press WASHINGTON — Looking to shove his campaign back on track , President Donald Trump and his team laid out an aggressive return to political activities on Friday , including a big Saturday White House event and a rally in Florida on Monday , a week after his hospitalization for the coronavirus that has killed more than 210,000 Americans .
As questions linger about his health — and Democratic opponent Joe Biden steps up his own campaigning — Trump planned to leave Washington for the first time since he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his radio and TV appearances with conservative interviewers , hoping to make up for lost time with just over three weeks until Election Day and millions already voting .
The president has not been seen in public — other than in White House-produced videos — since his return days ago from the military hospital where he received experimental treatments for the virus .
Two weeks after his Rose Garden event that has been labeled a “ super-spreader ” for the virus , Trump is planning to convene another large crowd outside the White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
More than two dozen people linked to the White House have contracted COVID-19 since the president ’ s Sept. 26 event announcing Judge Amy Coney Barrett as his nominee to the Supreme Court .
Trump will address the Saturday group , expected to be at least several hundred supporters , from the White House balcony .
All attendees are to be required to bring masks or will be provided with them , and also will be given temperature checks and asked to fill out a brief questionnaire .
Following of CDC guidelines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mask-wearing and social distancing .
Trump ’ s Monday rally in Sanford , Florida , was originally scheduled to be held Oct. 2 , the day after he tested positive .
Announcement of the new event came as Dr. Anthony Fauci , the government ’ s top infectious disease expert , cautioned the White House again to avoid large-scale gatherings of people without masks .
He said of the Barrett event in an interview with The Associated Press , “ I was not surprised to see a super-spreader event given the circumstances.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , not wearing masks .
It is not surprising to see an outbreak , ” he said .
District of Columbia virus restrictions prohibit outdoor gatherings larger than 50 people , although that rule has not been strictly enforced .
Masks are mandatory outdoors for most people , but the regulations don ’ t apply on federal land , and the Trump White House has openly flouted them for months .
And next week in Florida ?
Trump tweeted on Friday that he would be in Sanford “ for a very BIG RALLY @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s town hall-style Trump-Biden debate was officially canceled , a few days after Trump backed away when the sponsoring commission switched it from face-to-face to virtual following Trump ’ s COVID diagnosis .
Trump said the Commission on Presidential Debates was protecting Biden from having to take on the president in person .
But Biden ’ s team said the one demanding protection was Trump .
“ It ’ s shameful that Donald Trump ducked the only debate in which the voters get to ask the questions — but it ’ s no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bates .
“ Everyone knows that Donald Trump likes to bully reporters , but obviously he doesn ’ t have the guts to answer for his record to voters at the same time as Vice President Biden.
” Trump is now making the rounds of friendly conservative media , calling in to Fox News host Sean Hannity on Thursday night and spending two hours live on air with radio host Rush Limbaugh on Friday in what his campaign billed as a “ radio rally.
” Holding court on his reelection battle , his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Democrats to pass an economic stimulus bill , Trump was making a direct appeal to his base of loyal supporters , whom he needs to turn out to the polls in droves .
He following with a taped appearance on Tucker Carlson ’ s Fox News show Friday evening .
Fauci said in his AP interview , “ Let me just tell you what the CDC guidelines are for getting people to be able to go back into society .
It generally is 10 days from the onset of your symptoms.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to his doctors .
The president ’ s White House doctor , Navy Cmdr .
Sean Conley , said that means Trump , who has been surrounded by minimal staffing as he works out of the White House residence and the Oval Office , could return to holding events on Saturday .
Conley added that Trump was showing no evidence of his illness progressing or adverse reactions to the aggressive course of therapy he has received .
While reports of reinfection in COVID-19 victims are rare , the Centers for Disease @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who recover from the disease continue to wear masks , stay distanced and follow other precautions .
It was unclear if Trump , who has refused mask wearing in most settings , would abide by that guidance .
In the interview with Limbaugh , Trump again credited the experimental antibody drug he received last week with speeding his recovery .
“ I was not in the greatest of shape , ” he said .
“ A day later I was fine.
” He promised to expedite distribution of the drug to Americans in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Food and Drug Administration .
He speculated to Limbaugh that without the drug , “ I might not have recovered at all.
” However , there is no way to know how the drug affected his progression with the virus .
Despite public and private surveys showing him trailing Democrat Biden , Trump predicted a greater victory in 2020 than four years ago .
He won a majority in the Electoral College in 2016 , though he lost the national popular vote to Democrat Hillary Clinton .
• Coronavirus vaccine likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ official says • Letters : Measure S | Ravel for state Senate | Union endorsements | Saratoga council | The intelligent choice | A study in irony • Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer says Trump should not provide hate groups “ a rallying cry ” As for economic aid to businesses and individuals harmed by the pandemic , he said , “ I would like to see a bigger stimulus package frankly than either the Democrats or the Republicans are offering.
” He made that comment just days after calling off talks with House @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election ” because the GOP balked at the high price tag of the aid she was calling for .
Associated Press writer Ashraf Khalil contributed to this report .

By Zeke Miller, Jonathan Lemire and Jill Colvin | Associated Press
WASHINGTON — Looking to shove his campaign back on track, President Donald Trump and his team laid out an aggressive return to political activities on Friday, including a big Saturday White House event and a rally in Florida on Monday, a week after his hospitalization for the coronavirus that has killed more than 210,000 Americans.
As questions linger about his health — and Democratic opponent Joe Biden steps up his own campaigning — Trump planned to leave Washington for the first time since he was hospitalized. He is also increasing his radio and TV appearances with conservative interviewers, hoping to make up for lost time with just over three weeks until Election Day and millions already voting.
The president has not been seen in public — other than in White House-produced videos — since his return days ago from the military hospital where he received experimental treatments for the virus.
[vemba-video id=”politics/2020/10/09/trump-coronavirus-rally-white-house-event-fauci-superspreader-acosta-dnt-tsr-vpx.cnn”]
Video: Fauci calls Rose Garden ceremony a ‘superspreader’ event
Two weeks after his Rose Garden event that has been labeled a “super-spreader” for the virus, Trump is planning to convene another large crowd outside the White House on Saturday on a law-and-order theme. More than two dozen people linked to the White House have contracted COVID-19 since the president’s Sept. 26 event announcing Judge Amy Coney Barrett as his nominee to the Supreme Court.
Trump will address the Saturday group, expected to be at least several hundred supporters, from the White House balcony. All attendees are to be required to bring masks or will be provided with them, and also will be given temperature checks and asked to fill out a brief questionnaire. Following of CDC guidelines will be strongly encouraged, which include mask-wearing and social distancing.
Trump’s Monday rally in Sanford, Florida, was originally scheduled to be held Oct. 2, the day after he tested positive.
Announcement of the new event came as Dr. Anthony Fauci, the government’s top infectious disease expert, cautioned the White House again to avoid large-scale gatherings of people without masks.
He said of the Barrett event in an interview with The Associated Press, “I was not surprised to see a super-spreader event given the circumstances.” That means “crowded, congregate setting, not wearing masks. It is not surprising to see an outbreak,” he said.
District of Columbia virus restrictions prohibit outdoor gatherings larger than 50 people, although that rule has not been strictly enforced. Masks are mandatory outdoors for most people, but the regulations don’t apply on federal land, and the Trump White House has openly flouted them for months.
And next week in Florida? Trump tweeted on Friday that he would be in Sanford “for a very BIG RALLY!”
Meanwhile, next Thursday’s town hall-style Trump-Biden debate was officially canceled, a few days after Trump backed away when the sponsoring commission switched it from face-to-face to virtual following Trump’s COVID diagnosis.
Trump said the Commission on Presidential Debates was protecting Biden from having to take on the president in person. But Biden’s team said the one demanding protection was Trump.
“It’s shameful that Donald Trump ducked the only debate in which the voters get to ask the questions — but it’s no surprise,” said Biden spokesman Andrew Bates. “Everyone knows that Donald Trump likes to bully reporters, but obviously he doesn’t have the guts to answer for his record to voters at the same time as Vice President Biden.”
Trump is now making the rounds of friendly conservative media, calling in to Fox News host Sean Hannity on Thursday night and spending two hours live on air with radio host Rush Limbaugh on Friday in what his campaign billed as a “radio rally.”
Holding court on his reelection battle, his fight against the coronavirus and revived negotiations with Democrats to pass an economic stimulus bill, Trump was making a direct appeal to his base of loyal supporters, whom he needs to turn out to the polls in droves. He following with a taped appearance on Tucker Carlson’s Fox News show Friday evening.
Fauci said in his AP interview, “Let me just tell you what the CDC guidelines are for getting people to be able to go back into society. It generally is 10 days from the onset of your symptoms.”
That onset for Trump was Oct. 1, according to his doctors. The president’s White House doctor, Navy Cmdr. Sean Conley, said that means Trump, who has been surrounded by minimal staffing as he works out of the White House residence and the Oval Office, could return to holding events on Saturday.
Conley added that Trump was showing no evidence of his illness progressing or adverse reactions to the aggressive course of therapy he has received.
While reports of reinfection in COVID-19 victims are rare, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that even people who recover from the disease continue to wear masks, stay distanced and follow other precautions. It was unclear if Trump, who has refused mask wearing in most settings, would abide by that guidance.
In the interview with Limbaugh, Trump again credited the experimental antibody drug he received last week with speeding his recovery.
“I was not in the greatest of shape,” he said. “A day later I was fine.” He promised to expedite distribution of the drug to Americans in need, though that would require action by the Food and Drug Administration.
He speculated to Limbaugh that without the drug, “I might not have recovered at all.” However, there is no way to know how the drug affected his progression with the virus.
Despite public and private surveys showing him trailing Democrat Biden, Trump predicted a greater victory in 2020 than four years ago. He won a majority in the Electoral College in 2016, though he lost the national popular vote to Democrat Hillary Clinton.
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Prosecutors, defense spar over fate of Hunter Biden gun deal National Politics | GOP rivals prepare for possible Trump-less debate As for economic aid to businesses and individuals harmed by the pandemic, he said, “I would like to see a bigger stimulus package frankly than either the Democrats or the Republicans are offering.” He made that comment just days after calling off talks with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “until after the election” because the GOP balked at the high price tag of the aid she was calling for.
Associated Press writer Ashraf Khalil contributed to this report.


mercurynews--2020-10-09--Bob Melvin reflects on ALDS loss to Astros: ‘We ran into a buzzsaw’

One day after his team bowed out of the playoffs , Oakland A ’ s manager Bob Melvin gave credit on Friday to the Houston Astros for flipping the script .
The A ’ s won seven of 10 regular-season games against their division rival , with big help from a dominant bullpen .
But in the American League Division Series this week at Dodger Stadium , Houston won three of the four games as its hitters got the better of Oakland ’ s pitching staff , relievers and starters .
• Billy Beane offers state of the state on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s free agents who fit the San Francisco Giants needs for 2021 • Astros shrug off resentment-filled rivalry with A ’ s after eliminating Oakland from playoffs • Kurtenbach : The real tragedy of the A ’ s playoff flame-out “ We got beat in a fashion that typically we did not in the course of the season and we just couldn ’ t hold the team down , ” Melvin said Friday .
“ They just beat us up… With a lead in the sixth inning , we used to win @ @ @ @ @ @ @ point to a team that found their stride at the right time .
We just ran into a buzzsaw there for four games.
” The Astros put up 33 runs on the A ’ s pitching staff over four games , which amounted to a 8.82 ERA for the A ’ s pitching staff in the ALDS , including starters and relievers .
Every game of the series seemed to host a new Home Run Derby .
Each club hit 12 home runs , with the 24 total homers setting a Major League @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Let ’ s face it .
Houston , they were just on fire , ” A ’ s executive vice president Billy Beane said .
“ Some people say the pitching wasn ’ t good .
I prefer to give them credit .
That ’ s some really good hitters that performed at peak levels for four games.
” Though a struggling A ’ s offense swung a nice bat during the course of the postseason , they could not out-slug the Astros .
Houston , a sub-.500 regular season team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the league and .408 slugging percentage slashed .322/.388/.594 in 143 at-bats in the ALDS .
“ Give a lot of credit to their hitters , ” A ’ s general manger David Forst said .

One day after his team bowed out of the playoffs, Oakland A’s manager Bob Melvin gave credit on Friday to the Houston Astros for flipping the script.
The A’s won seven of 10 regular-season games against their division rival, with big help from a dominant bullpen.
But in the American League Division Series this week at Dodger Stadium, Houston won three of the four games as its hitters got the better of Oakland’s pitching staff, relievers and starters.
“We got beat in a fashion that typically we did not in the course of the season and we just couldn’t hold the team down,” Melvin said Friday. “They just beat us up… With a lead in the sixth inning, we used to win those games, but you have to point to a team that found their stride at the right time. We just ran into a buzzsaw there for four games.”
The Astros put up 33 runs on the A’s pitching staff over four games, which amounted to a 8.82 ERA for the A’s pitching staff in the ALDS, including starters and relievers. Every game of the series seemed to host a new Home Run Derby. Each club hit 12 home runs, with the 24 total homers setting a Major League Baseball record in a five-game postseason series.
“Let’s face it. Houston, they were just on fire,” A’s executive vice president Billy Beane said. “Some people say the pitching wasn’t good. I prefer to give them credit. That’s some really good hitters that performed at peak levels for four games.”
Though a struggling A’s offense swung a nice bat during the course of the postseason, they could not out-slug the Astros. Houston, a sub-.500 regular season team with a .240 batting average ranked 22nd-lowest in the league and .408 slugging percentage slashed .322/.388/.594 in 143 at-bats in the ALDS.
“Give a lot of credit to their hitters,” A’s general manager David Forst said.


mercurynews--2020-10-09--Billy Beane offers state of the state on A’s

The Oakland A ’ s haven ’ t had much time to digest their American League Divisional Series defeat at the hands of the Houston Astros .
Difficult decisions can ’ t be made yet , but the Athletics ’ brass left Los Angeles feeling good about the talent that flew back to Oakland .
Perhaps unsurprisingly , the organization isn ’ t focused on what they ’ ve lacked in their third straight early postseason exit — an unsuccessful bid to their first World Series since 1989 .
They ’ re looking to build on the core they have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ darn good foundation , ” said EVP of baseball operations Billy Beane .
“ Take the Matts ( Olson and Chapman ) on the corners , that ’ s a start anybody would like to have .
We have four starters we feel good about if you include potentially ( A.J . )
Puk in that mix as well .
( Ramón ) Laureano , ( Stephen ) Piscotty in right.
” • Bob Melvin reflects on ALDS loss to Astros : ‘ We ran into a buzzsaw ’ • Five Oakland A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ San Francisco Giants needs for 2021 • Astros shrug off resentment-filled rivalry with A ’ s after eliminating Oakland from playoffs • Kurtenbach : The real tragedy of the A ’ s playoff flame-out Beane added that he was encouraged by the way Khris Davis swung the bat at the end of the year .
The A ’ s designated hitter — coming on the final year of his two-year , $ 33.5 million contract — hit three home runs in the wild card series against the Chicago White Sox and Houston Astros @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 games over the course of the regular season .
“ The good thing is we have a lot of pieces in place that I think are good pieces , ” Beane said .
“ I look at the glass half full , instead of guys we are potentially losing.
” The A ’ s have nine free agents potentially coming off the books this offseason .
That includes shortstop Marcus Semien , closer Liam Hendriks , relievers Yusmeiro Petit , T.J. McFarland and Joakim Soria , right-handed starter Mike Fiers , outfielder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ La Stella and Mike Minor .
Hendriks , who backed up a breakout 2019 with a dominant 2020 , could be a hot commodity in this unprecedented free agent market .
“ That ’ s probably the most challenging market for the A ’ s to compete in , even if it ’ s your own guys , ” Beane said of this year ’ s free agent market that will be difficult to predict given the shortened season and economic impact of a baseball season played during a pandemic .
Both Semien @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open about their desire to reunite for 2021 and beyond .
La Stella has long been on the A ’ s wishlist — his plate discipline and approach added a fresh dynamic to the team ’ s all-out approach early this season .
After only enjoying his services for 34 games after acquiring him from the Los Angeles Angels , the A ’ s weren ’ t shy about their desire to retain him .
“ When you play against him you think you had a sense of what a good player he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ But when you see him every day , you really appreciate who he is and what he brought to the lineup the last month of the season.
” The A ’ s bullpen is most impacted by free agency with five relievers , including Minor , set to hit the market .
A tremendous strength for the A ’ s in the regular season , the staff built on an ability to generate manageable contact for outs struggled with a red-hot Astros team in an even-hotter Dodgers Stadium .
Hendriks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tier — and the A ’ s should hope to get him back — but Petit , Soria , McFarland and perhaps Minor could be targets to return on shorter deals .
The A ’ s also have MLB-ready pitchers waiting in the wings in James Kaprielian and Daulton Jefferies who could play a role out of the bullpen for a fraction of the price .
The free agency market comes with some unprecedented mystery .
And , for now , it seems the A ’ s will be intent on re-tooling in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few seasons .
“ We have young players we expect to continue to get better , ” Forst said .
“ A lot of core of this team coming back .
I don ’ t know if there ’ s one thing to point to to say , ‘ That ’ s what we need to get over the hump . '
”

The Oakland A’s haven’t had much time to digest their American League Division Series defeat at the hands of the Houston Astros. Difficult decisions can’t be made yet, but the Athletics’ brass left Los Angeles feeling good about the talent that flew back to Oakland.
The organization isn’t focused on what it has lacked during three consecutive early postseason exits. The A’s are looking to build on the core that they have as their quest to reach the World Series for the first time since 1990 continues.
“It’s a pretty darn good foundation,” Billy Beane, the team’s executive vice president of baseball operations, said Friday. “Take the Matts (Olson and Chapman) on the corners, that’s a start anybody would like to have. We have four starters we feel good about if you include potentially (A.J.) Puk in that mix as well. (Ramón) Laureano, (Stephen) Piscotty in right.”
Beane said he was encouraged by the way Khris Davis swung the bat at the end of the year. The A’s designated hitter, halfway through his two-year, $33.5 million contract, hit three home runs in the playoffs after hitting just two home runs in 30 regular-season games.
“The good thing is we have a lot of pieces in place that I think are good pieces,” Beane said. “I look at the glass half full, instead of guys we are potentially losing.”
The A’s have nine free agents — shortstop Marcus Semien, closer Liam Hendriks, relievers Yusmeiro Petit, T.J. McFarland and Joakim Soria, right-handed starter Mike Fiers, outfielder Robbie Grossman and deadline acquisitions Tommy La Stella and Mike Minor.
Hendriks, who backed up a breakout 2019 season with a dominant 2020, could be a hot commodity in what figures to be an unpredictable market because of the economic impact from the pandemic and the shortened season.
“That’s probably the most challenging market for the A’s to compete in, even if it’s your own guys,” Beane said.
Both Semien and the A’s have been open about their desire to reunite for 2021 and beyond. La Stella has long been on the A’s wishlist. His plate discipline and approach added a fresh dynamic.
The A’s aren’t shy about their desire to retain him, even though La Stella played in only 34 games for Oakland after being acquired from the Los Angeles Angels.
“When you play against him, you think you had a sense of what a good player he is,” general manager David Forst said. “But when you see him every day, you really appreciate who he is and what he brought to the lineup the last month of the season.”
Hendriks will most likely be in a different free agent tier. Even though the A’s would obviously like Hendriks back in green and gold, Petit, Soria, McFarland and perhaps Minor might be targeted to return on shorter deals. The A’s also have potential big league-ready pitchers waiting in the wings in James Kaprielian and Daulton Jefferies, who could play a role out of the bullpen for a fraction of what a high-priced free agent would cost.
“We have young players we expect to continue to get better,” Forst said. “A lot of core of this team coming back. I don’t know if there’s one thing to point to say, ‘That’s what we need to get over the hump.'”


mercurynews--2020-10-09--San Jose Sharks GM hints at return for Patrick Marleau

Sharks general manager Doug Wilson hinted Friday that Patrick Marleau could re-join the team for next season as he starts to approach Gordie Howe ’ s all-time record for games played in the NHL .
Marleau has played 1,723 career NHL games over 22 seasons , including 1,551 games over 20 seasons with the Sharks .
Marleau , 41 , is fifth on the NHL ’ s all-time games played list , and needs to play 45 more to pass Howe , one of the game ’ s all-time greats , who had 1,767 games over 26 seasons in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the respect for them , where they ’ re at in their career and what they ’ ve meant to this franchise , treating them with great respect is something that ’ s extremely important to us and our organization , ” Wilson said shortly after the Sharks announced the signing of winger Stefan Noesen to a one-year contract .
“ Hopefully we ’ ll have some news in that area in the next little while.
” Marleau , a free agent last summer after the last year of his three-year contract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was signed by the Sharks to a one-year , $ 700,000 on Oct. 8 , 2019 , and had his first practice back with the team the following day — exactly one year ago .
Like our Sharks Facebook page for more San Jose Sharks news , commentary and conversation .
Marleau went on to post 20 points in 58 games for the Sharks before he was traded the Pittsburgh Penguins on Feb. 24 for a conditional 2021 third round draft pick , which Wilson used to acquire forward Ryan Donato from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Between the Sharks and the Penguins last season , Marleau averaged over 15 minutes of ice time per game .
Marleau said Feb. 29 when the Penguins played the Sharks at SAP Center that he would like to play another season and return to the Sharks — for a third time .
“ Yeah , I think the door ’ s open maybe to come back , ” Marleau said .
“ I definitely would like to play another season , so that would be good.
” For complete Sharks coverage follow us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thornton has also stated he would like to play next season .
Both he and Marleau became unrestricted free agents Friday and are free to sign with other teams .
Thornton , according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN and the Athletic , will be patient before he decides what team he wants to sign with .
• Joe Thornton will be patient before he decides where to play next • NHL free agency : Will Joe Thornton return to Sharks or seek Stanley Cup elsewhere ?
• Sharks issue three qualifying offers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is his custom , Wilson would not comment on any discussions he ’ s had with either players ’ agents .
“ The respect that we have for both Patrick and Jumbo for what they ’ ve done for this franchise is extremely important to all of us , ” Wilson said .
“ What Patty ’ s accomplished and what Jumbo ’ s accomplished is pretty special .
”

Sharks general manager Doug Wilson hinted Friday that Patrick Marleau could re-join the team for next season as he starts to approach Gordie Howe’s all-time record for games played in the NHL.
Marleau has played 1,723 career NHL games over 22 seasons, including 1,551 games over 20 seasons with the Sharks. Marleau, 41, is fifth on the NHL’s all-time games played list, and needs to play 45 more to pass Howe, one of the game’s all-time greats, who had 1,767 games over 26 seasons in the league.
“Players of that nature and the respect for them, where they’re at in their career and what they’ve meant to this franchise, treating them with great respect is something that’s extremely important to us and our organization,” Wilson said shortly after the Sharks announced the signing of winger Stefan Noesen to a one-year contract.
“Hopefully we’ll have some news in that area in the next little while.”
Marleau, a free agent last summer after the last year of his three-year contract was bought out by the Carolina Hurricanes, was signed by the Sharks to a one-year, $700,000 on Oct. 8, 2019, and had his first practice back with the team the following day — exactly one year ago.
Like our Sharks Facebook page for more San Jose Sharks news, commentary and conversation.
Marleau went on to post 20 points in 58 games for the Sharks before he was traded the Pittsburgh Penguins on Feb. 24 for a conditional 2021 third round draft pick, which Wilson used to acquire forward Ryan Donato from the Minnesota Wild earlier this week.
Between the Sharks and the Penguins last season, Marleau averaged over 15 minutes of ice time per game.
Marleau said Feb. 29 when the Penguins played the Sharks at SAP Center that he would like to play another season and return to the Sharks — for a third time.
“Yeah, I think the door’s open maybe to come back,” Marleau said. “I definitely would like to play another season, so that would be good.”
For complete Sharks coverage
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Fellow Sharks icon Joe Thornton has also stated he would like to play next season. Both he and Marleau became unrestricted free agents Friday and are free to sign with other teams. Thornton, according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN and the Athletic, will be patient before he decides what team he wants to sign with.
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“The respect that we have for both Patrick and Jumbo for what they’ve done for this franchise is extremely important to all of us,” Wilson said. “What Patty’s accomplished and what Jumbo’s accomplished is pretty special.”


mercurynews--2020-10-09--Second Biden-Trump debate canceled

Second Biden-Trump debate canceled

The Commission on Presidential Debates on Friday canceled the second debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden after the President declined to do a virtual debate despite concerns over his COVID-19 diagnosis , a source familiar with the plans told CNN .
The cancellation is the culmination of a furious 48-hour back-and-forth between the commission and both campaigns and means what would have been the third debate in Nashville on Oct. 22 will likely be the final meeting between the two candidates .
The Wall Street Journal was first to report on the commission ’ s decision .
The commission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advisers , announced Thursday morning that — because Trump tested positive for the coronavirus — the debate that was scheduled for Miami would be held virtually , with the two candidates appearing from remote locations .
Trump swiftly rejected that plan , saying he would not show up and setting off a series of events that put the future of all general election debates into question .
In response to Trump ’ s cancellation , a Biden spokeswoman swiftly said that they would have agreed to a virtual format for next Thursday ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had seemingly bailed , they would book another format for the former vice president to take questions .
And they did just that when , later in the day , ABC News announced they would be hosting a town hall with the former vice president .
“ Vice President Biden looks forward to making his case to the American people about how to overcome this pandemic , restore American leadership and our alliances in the world , and bring the American people together , ” Biden campaign spokesman Andrew Bates said Friday in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shameful that Donald Trump ducked the only debate in which the voters get to ask the questions — but it ’ s no surprise.
” The Trump campaign , in response to their candidate backing out of the debate , issued three statements on Thursday that slammed the commission , pushed the Biden campaign to agree to an in-person debate and said they would be willing to push the October 15 debate back a week to October 22 and then move the third debate to October 29 , just days before the November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ campaign rejected their proposal , with campaign spokeswoman Kate Bedingfield saying in response , “ Donald Trump doesn ’ t make the debate schedule ; the debate commission does.
” The Trump campaign has argued that because the President ’ s physician , Navy Cmdr .
Dr. Sean Conley , has cleared him for travel , the commission should move the debate to an in-person setting .
“ There is therefore no medical reason why the Commission on Presidential Debates should shift the debate to a virtual setting , postpone it , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien said in a statement .
Trump is now in talks to do a town hall with NBC on Thursday in lieu of the debate , according to a person familiar with the plans , but that source cautioned things have not been finalized yet .
If that event comes to fruition , both candidates would be participating in town halls in separate events instead of the debate , which was scheduled to be a town hall-style format .
The cancellation is a political loss for Trump , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and either behind or tied with Biden in key swing states .
The loss of a debate deprives the President of a platform that he needs at a time when his campaign is trailing .
The first debate between Trump and Biden , a chaotic affair , was watched by more than 73 million people .
The reality for the commission , however , is that once Trump backed out and Biden agreed to an ABC town hall , a second debate between the candidates was unlikely , according to multiple sources familiar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Frank Fahrenkopf told CNN on Thursday night that Trump campaign ’ s push to hold an in-person debate next week in Miami after the President had already backed out of the contest did little to change the Commission on Presidential Debate ’ s belief that any debate next week must be virtual .
“ The Cleveland Clinic would have to clear it , ” Fahrenkopf said .
But , he added , that does not get the Biden campaign back involved , something the head of the commission believed was unlikely to happen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ They ’ ve moved on and are going to do this thing with ABC , ” Fahrenkopf added .
“ It doesn ’ t look good unless the Biden campaign changes their mind.
” • A small insect grabs VP debate night viewers and its place in history • The VP debate is over .
Did Sen. Kamala Harris ’ performance light a fire under women voters ?
Negotiations between the campaigns and the commission earlier on Friday did nothing to change the fact that the likelihood of a Miami debate was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say it is looking like Miami will be cancelled , ” a source familiar with today ’ s negotiations told CNN .
“ I don ’ t think there is any movement on either side that will make Miami happen .
”

The Commission on Presidential Debates on Friday canceled the second debate between Donald Trump and Joe Biden after the President declined to do a virtual debate despite concerns over his COVID-19 diagnosis, a source familiar with the plans told CNN.
The cancellation is the culmination of a furious 48-hour back-and-forth between the commission and both campaigns and means what would have been the third debate in Nashville on Oct. 22 will likely be the final meeting between the two candidates. The Wall Street Journal was first to report on the commission’s decision.
The commission, with the backing of their health advisers, announced Thursday morning that — because Trump tested positive for the coronavirus — the debate that was scheduled for Miami would be held virtually, with the two candidates appearing from remote locations. Trump swiftly rejected that plan, saying he would not show up and setting off a series of events that put the future of all general election debates into question.
In response to Trump’s cancellation, a Biden spokeswoman swiftly said that they would have agreed to a virtual format for next Thursday’s contest, but because the president had seemingly bailed, they would book another format for the former vice president to take questions. And they did just that when, later in the day, ABC News announced they would be hosting a town hall with the former vice president.
“Vice President Biden looks forward to making his case to the American people about how to overcome this pandemic, restore American leadership and our alliances in the world, and bring the American people together,” Biden campaign spokesman Andrew Bates said Friday in a statement. “It’s shameful that Donald Trump ducked the only debate in which the voters get to ask the questions — but it’s no surprise.”
The Trump campaign, in response to their candidate backing out of the debate, issued three statements on Thursday that slammed the commission, pushed the Biden campaign to agree to an in-person debate and said they would be willing to push the October 15 debate back a week to October 22 and then move the third debate to October 29, just days before the November 3 election.
But Biden’s campaign rejected their proposal, with campaign spokeswoman Kate Bedingfield saying in response, “Donald Trump doesn’t make the debate schedule; the debate commission does.”
The Trump campaign has argued that because the President’s physician, Navy Cmdr. Dr. Sean Conley, has cleared him for travel, the commission should move the debate to an in-person setting.
“There is therefore no medical reason why the Commission on Presidential Debates should shift the debate to a virtual setting, postpone it, or otherwise alter it in any way,” Trump campaign manager Bill Stepien said in a statement.
Trump is now in talks to do a town hall with NBC on Thursday in lieu of the debate, according to a person familiar with the plans, but that source cautioned things have not been finalized yet.
If that event comes to fruition, both candidates would be participating in town halls in separate events instead of the debate, which was scheduled to be a town hall-style format.
The cancellation is a political loss for Trump, who is down in all national polls and either behind or tied with Biden in key swing states. The loss of a debate deprives the President of a platform that he needs at a time when his campaign is trailing. The first debate between Trump and Biden, a chaotic affair, was watched by more than 73 million people.
The reality for the commission, however, is that once Trump backed out and Biden agreed to an ABC town hall, a second debate between the candidates was unlikely, according to multiple sources familiar with the negotiations.
And commission head Frank Fahrenkopf told CNN on Thursday night that Trump campaign’s push to hold an in-person debate next week in Miami after the President had already backed out of the contest did little to change the Commission on Presidential Debate’s belief that any debate next week must be virtual.
“The Cleveland Clinic would have to clear it,” Fahrenkopf said. But, he added, that does not get the Biden campaign back involved, something the head of the commission believed was unlikely to happen after conversations with top Biden aides.
“They’ve moved on and are going to do this thing with ABC,” Fahrenkopf added. “It doesn’t look good unless the Biden campaign changes their mind.”
Negotiations between the campaigns and the commission earlier on Friday did nothing to change the fact that the likelihood of a Miami debate was low.
“It is fair to say it is looking like Miami will be cancelled,” a source familiar with today’s negotiations told CNN. “I don’t think there is any movement on either side that will make Miami happen.”


mercurynews--2020-10-09--San Jose: Police release details of fatal June car collision

SAN JOSE — Police have released details about a fatal collision in June that investigators say killed a driver who ran a red light and crashed into another car .
The collision was reported just after 10 p.m. June 26 near North King Road and Alum Rock Avenue , according to a San Jose police news release issued Friday .
Police stated that according to the investigation , a woman was driving a 2004 Toyota Camry east on Alum Rock “ at a high rate of speed , ” ran through a red light , and hit a 2002 Dodge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the hospital , and died on June 30 , police said .
The man driving the Durango and his two adult passengers were also taken to the hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening .
The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner ’ s Office identified the woman as Lydia Rodriguez , 75 , of Daly City .
Police referred an inquiry about why the fatal crash was announced three months later to the coroner ’ s office , which did not provide any information about the matter .
The fatal collision marked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the year .

SAN JOSE — Police have released details about a fatal collision in June that investigators say killed a driver who ran a red light and crashed into another car.
The collision was reported just after 10 p.m. June 26 near North King Road and Alum Rock Avenue, according to a San Jose police news release issued Friday.
Police stated that according to the investigation, a woman was driving a 2004 Toyota Camry east on Alum Rock “at a high rate of speed,” ran through a red light, and hit a 2002 Dodge Durango.
The Camry driver was rushed to the hospital, and died on June 30, police said. The man driving the Durango and his two adult passengers were also taken to the hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.
The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner’s Office identified the woman as Lydia Rodriguez, 75, of Daly City.
Police referred an inquiry about why the fatal crash was announced three months later to the coroner’s office, which did not provide any information about the matter.
The fatal collision marked the city’s 37th roadway death of the year.


mercurynews--2020-10-09--Senior Living: Lifetime experiences help older adults build resilience to pandemic trauma

Older adults are especially vulnerable physically during the coronavirus pandemic .
But they ’ re also notably resilient psychologically , calling upon a lifetime of experience and perspective to help them through difficult times .
New research calls attention to this little-remarked-upon resilience as well as significant challenges for older adults as the pandemic stretches on .
It shows that many seniors have changed behaviors — reaching out to family and friends , pursuing hobbies , exercising , participating in faith communities — as they strive to stay safe from the coronavirus .
“ There are some older adults who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and have actually expanded their social networks and activities , ” said Brian Carpenter , a professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St. Louis .
“ But you don ’ t hear about them because the pandemic narrative reinforces stereotypes of older adults as frail , disabled and dependent.
” Whether those coping strategies will prove effective as the pandemic lingers , however , is an open question .
“ In other circumstances — hurricanes , fires , earthquakes , terrorist attacks — older adults have been shown to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Sarah Lowe , an assistant professor at Yale University School of Public Health who studies the mental health effects of traumatic events .
“ But COVID-19 is distinctive from other disasters because of its constellation of stressors , geographic spread and protracted duration , ” she continued .
“ And older adults are now cut off from many of the social and psychological resources that enable resilience because of their heightened risk.
” The most salient risk is of severe illness and death : 80 % of COVID-19 deaths have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Here are notable findings from a new wave of research documenting the early experiences of older adults during the pandemic : Changing behaviors .
Older adults have listened to public health authorities and taken steps to minimize the risk of being infected with COVID-19 , according to a new study in The Gerontologist .
Results come from a survey of 1,272 adults age 64 and older administered online between May 4 and May 17 .
More than 80 % of the respondents lived in New Jersey , an early pandemic hot spot .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ seniors with lower incomes and in poor health — were underrepresented .
These seniors reported spending less face-to-face time with family and friends ( 95 % ) , limiting trips to the grocery store ( 94 % ) , canceling plans to attend a celebration ( 88 % ) , saying no to out-of-town trips ( 88 % ) , not going to funerals ( 72 % ) , going to public places less often ( 72 % ) and canceling doctors ’ appointments ( 69 % ) .
Safeguarding well-being .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Brenda Whitehead , an associate professor of psychology at the University of Michigan-Dearborn , addresses how older adults have adjusted to altered routines and physical distancing .
Her data comes from an online survey of 825 adults age 60 and older on March 22 and 23 — another sample weighted toward those who are White and people with higher incomes .
Instead of inquiring about “ coping ” — a term that can carry negative connotations — Whitehead asked about sources of joy and comfort during the pandemic .
Most commonly reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 31.6 % ) , interacting on digital platforms ( video chats , emails , social media , texts — 22 % ) , engaging in hobbies ( 19 % ) , being with pets ( 19 % ) , spending time with spouses or partners ( 15 % ) and relying on faith ( 11.5 % ) .
“ In terms of how these findings relate to where we are now , I would argue these sources of joy and comfort , these coping resources , are even more important ” as stress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
Maintaining meaningful connections with older adults remains crucial , she said .
“ Don ’ t assume that people are OK , ” she advised families and friends .
“ Check in with them .
Ask how they ’ re doing.
” Coping with stress .
What are the most significant sources of stress that older adults are experiencing ?
In Whitehead ’ s survey , older adults most often mentioned dealing with mandated restrictions and the resulting confinement ( 13 % ) , concern for others ’ health and well-being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ loneliness and social isolation ( 12 % ) , and uncertainty about the future of the pandemic and its impact ( 9 % ) .
Keep in mind , older adults expressed these attitudes at the start of the pandemic .
Answers might differ now .
And the longer stress endures , the more likely it is to adversely affect both physical and mental health .
Managing distress .
The COVID-19 Coping Study , a research effort by a team at the University of Michigan ’ s Institute for Social Research , offers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s psychological impact .
Results come from an online survey of 6,938 adults age 55 and older in April and May .
Researchers are following up with 4,211 respondents monthly to track changes in older adults ’ responses to the pandemic over a year .
Among the key findings published to date : 64 % of older adults said they were extremely or moderately worried about the pandemic .
Thirty-two percent reported symptoms of depression , while 29 % reported serious anxiety .
Notably , these types of distress were about twice as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those 75 and older .
This is consistent with research showing that people become better able to regulate their emotions and manage stress as they advance through later life .
On the positive side , older adults are responding by getting exercise , going outside , altering routines , practicing self-care , and adjusting attitudes via meditation and mindfulness , among other practices , the study found .
“ It ’ s important to focus on the things we can control and recognize that we do still have agency to change things , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the study and assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health .
Addressing loneliness .
The growing burden of social isolation and loneliness in the older population is dramatically evident in new results from the University of Michigan ’ s National Poll on Healthy Aging , with 2,074 respondents from 50 to 80 years old .
It found that , in June , twice as many older adults ( 56 % ) felt isolated from other people as in October 2018 ( 27 % ) .
Although @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % ) and video chats ( 57 % ) to stay connected with family and friends during the pandemic , they indicated this didn ’ t alleviate feelings of isolation .
“ What I take from this is it ’ s important to find ways for older adults to interact face to face with other people in safe ways , ” said Dr. Preeti Malani , chief health officer at the University of Michigan .
“ Back in March , April and May , Zoom family time was great .
But you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ forever.
” “ A lot of well-intentioned families are staying away from their parents because they don ’ t want to expose them to risk , ” Malani continued .
“ But we ’ re at a point where risks can be mitigated , with careful planning .
Masks help a lot .
Social distancing is essential .
Getting tested can be useful.
” Malani practices what she preaches : Each weekend , she and her husband take their children to see her elderly in-laws or parents .
Both couples live less than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it carefully — outdoors , physically distant , no hugs , ” Malani said .
“ But I make a point to visit with them because the harms of isolation are just too high.
” Kaiser Health News is a nonprofit news service covering health issues .
It is an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation , which is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente .

Older adults are especially vulnerable physically during the coronavirus pandemic. But they’re also notably resilient psychologically, calling upon a lifetime of experience and perspective to help them through difficult times.
New research calls attention to this little-remarked-upon resilience as well as significant challenges for older adults as the pandemic stretches on. It shows that many seniors have changed behaviors — reaching out to family and friends, pursuing hobbies, exercising, participating in faith communities — as they strive to stay safe from the coronavirus.
“There are some older adults who are doing quite well during the pandemic and have actually expanded their social networks and activities,” said Brian Carpenter, a professor of psychological and brain sciences at Washington University in St. Louis. “But you don’t hear about them because the pandemic narrative reinforces stereotypes of older adults as frail, disabled and dependent.”
Whether those coping strategies will prove effective as the pandemic lingers, however, is an open question.
“In other circumstances — hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, terrorist attacks — older adults have been shown to have a lot of resilience to trauma,” said Sarah Lowe, an assistant professor at Yale University School of Public Health who studies the mental health effects of traumatic events.
“But COVID-19 is distinctive from other disasters because of its constellation of stressors, geographic spread and protracted duration,” she continued. “And older adults are now cut off from many of the social and psychological resources that enable resilience because of their heightened risk.”
The most salient risk is of severe illness and death: 80% of COVID-19 deaths have occurred in people 65 and older.
Here are notable findings from a new wave of research documenting the early experiences of older adults during the pandemic:
Changing behaviors. Older adults have listened to public health authorities and taken steps to minimize the risk of being infected with COVID-19, according to a new study in The Gerontologist.
Results come from a survey of 1,272 adults age 64 and older administered online between May 4 and May 17. More than 80% of the respondents lived in New Jersey, an early pandemic hot spot. Blacks and Hispanics — as well as seniors with lower incomes and in poor health — were underrepresented.
These seniors reported spending less face-to-face time with family and friends (95%), limiting trips to the grocery store (94%), canceling plans to attend a celebration (88%), saying no to out-of-town trips (88%), not going to funerals (72%), going to public places less often (72%) and canceling doctors’ appointments (69%).
Safeguarding well-being. In another new study published in The Gerontologist, Brenda Whitehead, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, addresses how older adults have adjusted to altered routines and physical distancing.
Her data comes from an online survey of 825 adults age 60 and older on March 22 and 23 — another sample weighted toward those who are White and people with higher incomes.
Instead of inquiring about “coping” — a term that can carry negative connotations — Whitehead asked about sources of joy and comfort during the pandemic. Most commonly reported were connecting with family and friends (31.6%), interacting on digital platforms (video chats, emails, social media, texts — 22%), engaging in hobbies (19%), being with pets (19%), spending time with spouses or partners (15%) and relying on faith (11.5%).
“In terms of how these findings relate to where we are now, I would argue these sources of joy and comfort, these coping resources, are even more important” as stress related to the pandemic persists, Whitehead said.
Maintaining meaningful connections with older adults remains crucial, she said. “Don’t assume that people are OK,” she advised families and friends. “Check in with them. Ask how they’re doing.”
Coping with stress. What are the most significant sources of stress that older adults are experiencing? In Whitehead’s survey, older adults most often mentioned dealing with mandated restrictions and the resulting confinement (13%), concern for others’ health and well-being (12%), feelings of loneliness and social isolation (12%), and uncertainty about the future of the pandemic and its impact (9%).
Keep in mind, older adults expressed these attitudes at the start of the pandemic. Answers might differ now. And the longer stress endures, the more likely it is to adversely affect both physical and mental health.
Managing distress. The COVID-19 Coping Study, a research effort by a team at the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research, offers an early look at the pandemic’s psychological impact.
Results come from an online survey of 6,938 adults age 55 and older in April and May. Researchers are following up with 4,211 respondents monthly to track changes in older adults’ responses to the pandemic over a year.
Among the key findings published to date: 64% of older adults said they were extremely or moderately worried about the pandemic. Thirty-two percent reported symptoms of depression, while 29% reported serious anxiety.
Notably, these types of distress were about twice as common among 55- to 64-year-olds as among those 75 and older. This is consistent with research showing that people become better able to regulate their emotions and manage stress as they advance through later life.
On the positive side, older adults are responding by getting exercise, going outside, altering routines, practicing self-care, and adjusting attitudes via meditation and mindfulness, among other practices, the study found.
“It’s important to focus on the things we can control and recognize that we do still have agency to change things,” said Lindsay Kobayashi, a co-author of the study and assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
Addressing loneliness. The growing burden of social isolation and loneliness in the older population is dramatically evident in new results from the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, with 2,074 respondents from 50 to 80 years old. It found that, in June, twice as many older adults (56%) felt isolated from other people as in October 2018 (27%).
Although most reported using social media (70%) and video chats (57%) to stay connected with family and friends during the pandemic, they indicated this didn’t alleviate feelings of isolation.
“What I take from this is it’s important to find ways for older adults to interact face to face with other people in safe ways,” said Dr. Preeti Malani, chief health officer at the University of Michigan. “Back in March, April and May, Zoom family time was great. But you can’t live in that virtual universe forever.”
“A lot of well-intentioned families are staying away from their parents because they don’t want to expose them to risk,” Malani continued. “But we’re at a point where risks can be mitigated, with careful planning. Masks help a lot. Social distancing is essential. Getting tested can be useful.”
Malani practices what she preaches: Each weekend, she and her husband take their children to see her elderly in-laws or parents. Both couples live less than an hour away.
“We do it carefully — outdoors, physically distant, no hugs,” Malani said. “But I make a point to visit with them because the harms of isolation are just too high.”
Kaiser Health News is a nonprofit news service covering health issues. It is an editorially independent program of the Kaiser Family Foundation, which is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.


mercurynews--2020-10-09--Sharks re-sign Stefan Noesen, answer one depth forward question

The Sharks have re-signed forward Stefan Noesen to a one-year contract .
According to a source , the contract is worth $ 925,000 , a bump from the $ 700.000 he made last season .
“ Stefan came in here last season and made a pretty seamless transition both on and off the ice , ” Sharks general manager Doug Wilson said in a statement .
“ He plays the game with a high tempo and energy and isn ’ t afraid to stick up for his teammates .
We think he fits well with how we want our team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ returning to San Jose.
” Noesen , 27 , had eight points and 32 penalty minutes 34 games with the Sharks , who claimed him off of waivers from the Pittsburgh Penguins Dec. 19 .
Noesen , listed at 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds , averaged close to 12 minutes of ice time per game as a depth forward whose responsibilities increased during the season as the Sharks dealt with injuries to a handful of key players .
Noesen once again figures to slot as the Sharks ’ third or fourth line right wing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other NHL team are dealing with a salary cap that remained flat this season at $ 81.5 million , and is not expected to rise much in the near future after next season thanks to the financial ramifications of the pandemic .
The Sharks , per CapFriendly , now have about $ 7.7 million in cap space with four roster spots left to fill .
Noesen ’ s signing answers at least one question about the Sharks ’ forward depth for this upcoming season .
Melker Karlsson , another unrestricted free agent , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in San Jose .
In 199 career games with the Anaheim Ducks , New Jersey Devils , Penguins and Sharks , Noesen has 54 points ( 31 goals , 23 assists ) with 120 penalty minutes .
Noesen was originally selected by Ottawa in the 2011 NHL Draft ( first round , 21st overall ) .
Please check back for updates to this story .

The Sharks have re-signed forward Stefan Noesen to a one-year contract.
According to a source, the contract is worth $925,000, a bump from the $700.000 he made last season.
“Stefan came in here last season and made a pretty seamless transition both on and off the ice,” Sharks general manager Doug Wilson said in a statement. “He plays the game with a high tempo and energy and isn’t afraid to stick up for his teammates. We think he fits well with how we want our team to play and are happy he is returning to San Jose.”
Noesen, 27, had eight points and 32 penalty minutes 34 games with the Sharks, who claimed him off of waivers from the Pittsburgh Penguins Dec. 19.
Noesen, listed at 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, averaged close to 12 minutes of ice time per game as a depth forward whose responsibilities increased during the season as the Sharks dealt with injuries to a handful of key players.
Noesen once again figures to slot as the Sharks’ third or fourth line right wing this season.
The Sharks and every other NHL team are dealing with a salary cap that remained flat this season at $81.5 million, and is not expected to rise much in the near future after next season thanks to the financial ramifications of the pandemic.
The Sharks, per CapFriendly, now have about $7.7 million in cap space with four roster spots left to fill.
Noesen’s signing answers at least one question about the Sharks’ forward depth for this upcoming season. Melker Karlsson, another unrestricted free agent, will not return for a seventh season in San Jose.
In 199 career games with the Anaheim Ducks, New Jersey Devils, Penguins and Sharks, Noesen has 54 points (31 goals, 23 assists) with 120 penalty minutes.
Noesen was originally selected by Ottawa in the 2011 NHL Draft (first round, 21st overall).
Please check back for updates to this story.


mercurynews--2020-10-10--Editorial: As Berkeley’s finances worsen, these five can best lead

In Berkeley , a city that prides itself for taking care of its neediest , the pandemic has presented major financial challenges .
City leaders had to close a whopping $ 39 million shortfall to roughly balance the current year ’ s $ 201 million general fund budget .
More cuts are likely later this year .
The city will need thoughtful elected officials who understand the numbers and can balance the huge demands of myriad Berkeley political forces with pragmatic approaches to municipal finances .
Leaders who can respect demands for social justice , changes in policing and climate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and protecting residents ’ safety .
For that , voters should reelect Mayor Jesse Arreguin ; elect solar energy scientist Alex Sharenko in City Council District 2 ; and reelect Ben Bartlett in District 3 , Sophie Hahn in District 5 and Susan Wengraf in District 7 .
It ’ s not that the incumbents have been doing stellar jobs , it ’ s that they are better candidates than their opponents .
Indeed , over the past decade since the Great Recession , Berkeley has squandered an opportunity to right its finances @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are three more proposed on the November ballot — city leaders have let their debt for workers ’ pensions and retiree health care continue to mount .
The unfunded liability now stands at about $ 700 million .
They failed to address a giant credit bill when times are good , leaving the city to make huge payments during this economic downturn .
That drains money that could be better used for needed city services .
During his first term , Arreguin has been an exceptionally hardworking mayor .
Whether it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Berkeley ’ s mounting retirement debts or allocating resources for police , he stands far above the other candidates with his knowledge of the issues and practical approaches to solving problems .
His best-funded challenger , Wayne Hsiung , an attorney and controversial animal rights activist , faces 16 felonies and eight misdemeanor charges in connection with actions at pig and turkey farms in Utah , a goat rescue in North Carolina and two poultry farms in Petaluma , according to reporting by Berkeleyside .
The other challengers are UC Berkeley undergraduate student @ @ @ @ @ @ @ City Council in 2018 , and repeat mayoral candidate Naomi Pete .
Pete did not participate in our interview process .
Arreguin recognizes the need to address the city ’ s retirement debt .
In contrast , Hsiung on one hand warns that if Berkeley doesn ’ t address the issue the city could end up like Detroit , and then says the issue isn ’ t significant .
Hill says he is still learning about the issue .
While Hsiung and Hill want to cut the police budget by 50 % , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He understands that such a large cut would be devastating to public safety , especially in areas such as West Berkeley where residents are calling for more patrols , not fewer .
Any of three strong challengers would be a huge improvement over incumbent Cheryl Davila .
The strongest candidate is Alex Sharenko , a solar energy scientist who clearly understands the city ’ s financial and social issues , starting with a clear recognition that retirement costs are crowding out funding for needed city services .
For the city ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Timothy Carter , an insurance agency owner and developer of infill housing .
Terry Taplin , a writer and former member of the city ’ s Civic Arts Commission , deserves the third pick .
Any of these three would make an excellent , collegial council member .
Davila , in contrast , has managed during her first term to alienate her colleagues .
The mayor and at least six of the seven other council members have endorsed Davila ’ s opponents .
Davila has accused colleagues of racist behavior , called for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police chief for which she garnered no other council support , and removed a transportation commissioner who declined to state support for divestment in Israel .
When Ben Bartlett ran for an open seat four years ago , we were lukewarm about his candidacy .
Since then , he has worked hard to better understand the city ’ s finances and retirement liabilities .
And his approach to changes in policing is balanced by his understanding that it can not result in a lapse of service for residents .
Deborah Matthews , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is our No .
2 pick .
She was our first choice four years ago and remains impressive .
But when it comes to city finances , Bartlett has the better grasp .
The third candidate , civil engineer Orlando Martinez , entered the race in part because he hadn ’ t seen action to correct the city ’ s inaccurate calculations of parcel taxes that are based on square footage of buildings .
He ’ s justifiably frustrated that the council has failed to correct the problem .
But he ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the council .
Incumbent Sophie Hahn approaches police financing by asking what the most cost-effective way is to protect the community .
That means using police where they ’ re needed and looking to others for social services when possible .
If reelected , she needs to make good on her previous promises to seriously address the city ’ s retirement debts .
Real estate salesman Todd Andrew should be voters ’ No .
2 pick under the city ’ s ranked-choice system .
He understands budget issues and has a practical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the city already excels and where it falls short .
Finally , Paul Picklesimer , who wants to simply cut the police budget by 50 % , is a disciple of mayoral candidate Wayne Hsiung and faces similar felony charges in Utah for animal rights activism .
Seeking her fourth term on the council , Wengraf is pragmatic .
As she notes , the budget crisis the city faces will get worse as the pandemic progresses , and reallocation of police jobs should consider that mental health cases and traffic stops cops handle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ opponent , Richard Illgen , a retired Oakland deputy city attorney , failed to articulate a compelling reason for ousting a solid incumbent .
And when asked about Berkeley ’ s massive retirement debt , he wanted to dust off an ill-fated plan Oakland tried to borrow money to pay off debt — essentially transferring it from one credit card to the next .
That ’ s only a solution for those who like kicking cans down roads .

Click here for a complete list of our election recommendations.
In Berkeley, a city that prides itself for taking care of its neediest, the pandemic has presented major financial challenges.
City leaders had to close a whopping $39 million shortfall to roughly balance the current year’s $201 million general fund budget. More cuts are likely later this year.
The city will need thoughtful elected officials who understand the numbers and can balance the huge demands of myriad Berkeley political forces with pragmatic approaches to municipal finances. Leaders who can respect demands for social justice, changes in policing and climate change activism while still balancing the books and protecting residents’ safety.
For that, voters should reelect Mayor Jesse Arreguin; elect solar energy scientist Alex Sharenko in City Council District 2; and reelect Ben Bartlett in District 3, Sophie Hahn in District 5 and Susan Wengraf in District 6.
It’s not that the incumbents have been doing stellar jobs, it’s that they are better candidates than their opponents.
Indeed, over the past decade since the Great Recession, Berkeley has squandered an opportunity to right its finances. While repeatedly passing new taxes — there are three more proposed on the November ballot — city leaders have let their debt for workers’ pensions and retiree health care continue to mount. The unfunded liability now stands at about $700 million.
They failed to address a giant credit bill when times are good, leaving the city to make huge payments during this economic downturn. That drains money that could be better used for needed city services.
Mayor — Jesse Arreguin
During his first term, Arreguin has been an exceptionally hardworking mayor. Whether it’s dealing with city finances, addressing Berkeley’s mounting retirement debts or allocating resources for police, he stands far above the other candidates with his knowledge of the issues and practical approaches to solving problems.
His best-funded challenger, Wayne Hsiung, an attorney and controversial animal rights activist, faces 16 felonies and eight misdemeanor charges in connection with actions at pig and turkey farms in Utah, a goat rescue in North Carolina and two poultry farms in Petaluma, according to reporting by Berkeleyside.
The other challengers are UC Berkeley undergraduate student Aidan Hill, who ran unsuccessfully for City Council in 2018, and repeat mayoral candidate Naomi Pete. Pete did not participate in our interview process.
Arreguin recognizes the need to address the city’s retirement debt. In contrast, Hsiung on one hand warns that if Berkeley doesn’t address the issue the city could end up like Detroit, and then says the issue isn’t significant. Hill says he is still learning about the issue.
While Hsiung and Hill want to cut the police budget by 50%, Arreguin is reasonably tempered in his approach. He understands that such a large cut would be devastating to public safety, especially in areas such as West Berkeley where residents are calling for more patrols, not fewer.
District 2 — Alex Sharenko
Any of three strong challengers would be a huge improvement over incumbent Cheryl Davila.
The strongest candidate is Alex Sharenko, a solar energy scientist who clearly understands the city’s financial and social issues, starting with a clear recognition that retirement costs are crowding out funding for needed city services.
For the city’s ranked-choice voting, our second choice is Timothy Carter, an insurance agency owner and developer of infill housing. Terry Taplin, a writer and former member of the city’s Civic Arts Commission, deserves the third pick. Any of these three would make an excellent, collegial council member.
Davila, in contrast, has managed during her first term to alienate her colleagues. The mayor and at least six of the seven other council members have endorsed Davila’s opponents. Davila has accused colleagues of racist behavior, called for a vote of no confidence in the police chief for which she garnered no other council support, and removed a transportation commissioner who declined to state support for divestment in Israel.
District 3 — Ben Bartlett
When Ben Bartlett ran for an open seat four years ago, we were lukewarm about his candidacy. Since then, he has worked hard to better understand the city’s finances and retirement liabilities. And his approach to changes in policing is balanced by his understanding that it cannot result in a lapse of service for residents.
Deborah Matthews, a real estate agent and former planning commissioner, is our No. 2 pick. She was our first choice four years ago and remains impressive. But when it comes to city finances, Bartlett has the better grasp.
The third candidate, civil engineer Orlando Martinez, entered the race in part because he hadn’t seen action to correct the city’s inaccurate calculations of parcel taxes that are based on square footage of buildings. He’s justifiably frustrated that the council has failed to correct the problem. But he’s otherwise unprepared to be a member of the council.
District 5 — Sophie Hahn
Incumbent Sophie Hahn approaches police financing by asking what the most cost-effective way is to protect the community. That means using police where they’re needed and looking to others for social services when possible. If reelected, she needs to make good on her previous promises to seriously address the city’s retirement debts.
Real estate salesman Todd Andrew should be voters’ No. 2 pick under the city’s ranked-choice system. He understands budget issues and has a practical approach to rethinking policing, examining where the city already excels and where it falls short.
Finally, Paul Picklesimer, who wants to simply cut the police budget by 50%, is a disciple of mayoral candidate Wayne Hsiung and faces similar felony charges in Utah for animal rights activism.
District 6 — Susan Wengraf
Seeking her fourth term on the council, Wengraf is pragmatic. As she notes, the budget crisis the city faces will get worse as the pandemic progresses, and reallocation of police jobs should consider that mental health cases and traffic stops cops handle can sometimes be very dangerous.
Her opponent, Richard Illgen, a retired Oakland deputy city attorney, failed to articulate a compelling reason for ousting a solid incumbent. And when asked about Berkeley’s massive retirement debt, he wanted to dust off an ill-fated plan Oakland tried to borrow money to pay off debt — essentially transferring it from one credit card to the next. That’s only a solution for those who like kicking cans down roads.