mercurynews--2020-08-30--Park It: District staff helps state fight East Bay wildfires

As you may imagine , East Bay Regional Park District firefighters and operations staff have had their hands full dealing with the unprecedented series of lightning-caused fires that are burning in East Bay regional parks , counties and throughout the state .
Aileen Theile , the East Bay Regional Park District ’ s fire chief , provided this information about the park district ’ s firefighting efforts : “ During a period of 90 minutes on Aug. 16 , there were 12,000 lightning strikes statewide , of which 560 caused fires .
As part of a multiagency firefighting team under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ park district firefighters fought fires on park district land and other open space , wherever needed , from Round Valley and Morgan Territory near Brentwood to Sunol and Ohlone Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County .
“ Fires started within five regional parks .
To give an idea of the area involved , the Calaveras and Canyon ( zones of the SCU Lightning ) Complex fire , encompassing about seven counties , has burned more than 366,000 acres as of this writing , ” she said .
The firefighting effort has required mobilization @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team .
This comprises 23 full-time firefighters and some 34 on-call firefighter staff — district employees with other primary occupations but who are also fully trained firefighters available when needed .
The on-call firefighters were released from their primary district jobs to reinforce the full-timers .
And the park district lifeguard staff set up a camp at the district ’ s public safety headquarters in Castro Valley for firefighters coming off the line .
The camp design conformed to COVID-19 safety protocols .
Another asset is the district ’ s Eagle 7 helicopter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only early air resources available .
Using the helicopters ’ Bambi bucket capability , the Eagle pilots worked every day , assisting Cal Fire by dropping more than 4,000 gallons of water on the fires .
A notable effort was at Camp Arroyo in Del Valle Regional Park , south of Livermore .
Camp Arroyo provides an environmental education experience to children during the school year .
In the summer and on some school year weekends , it serves as a camp for children with life-threatening illnesses , in partnership with the Taylor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , district firefighters , rangers and park operations staff spent three days at Del Valle Regional Park and Camp Arroyo , making the site more fire-safe by clearing vegetation and securing buildings .
Chief Theile called it a “ tremendous effort.
” As a result , if the fire does come through , a lot of fire damage will be averted .
A final assessment of damage will have to await post-fire inspection , but it appears that the Sunol Regional Wilderness visitor center was spared .
Park residents were evacuated from Round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fire emergency , the district closed all regional parks on Aug. 21 , except for some shoreline parks and paved interpark regional trails .
Chief Theile gave several reasons .
For one , the air quality was really bad .
Apart from health concerns , the thick haze made it impossible for firefighters to tell whether a fire was actually burning within a park .
Also , in the event that a fire did occur , firefighters and police would have a serious problem finding and evacuating park visitors or dealing with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dangerous enough .
Finally , Cal Fire officials informed the district that 96 % of their available resources were committed to the fires in the Bay Area and elsewhere in the state .
Resources were stretched so thin , Cal Fire said , that if a fire started in another regional park , the park district might have to fight it without assistance .
As of Aug. 27 , improving conditions allowed reopening of most of the regional parks that had been closed .
Exceptions were parks directly impacted by the fire : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Territory , Ohlone Wilderness , Round Valley and Sunol .
If it becomes necessary to close regional parks again , the park district urges everyone to abide by the rules .
Please do not enter a regional park that has been closed .
By doing so , you can endanger yourself and others and force already overworked firefighters and police to divert resources from emergencies to escort you from the area .
For up-to-date information about the status of regional parks , visit the district website at ebparks.org .
Fire and COVID-19 reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home page .
Ned MacKay writes about East Bay Regional Park District sites and activities .
Email him at nedmackay @ comcast.net .

As you may imagine, East Bay Regional Park District firefighters and operations staff have had their hands full dealing with the unprecedented series of lightning-caused fires that are burning in East Bay regional parks, counties and throughout the state.
Aileen Theile, the East Bay Regional Park District’s fire chief, provided this information about the park district’s firefighting efforts:
“During a period of 90 minutes on Aug. 16, there were 12,000 lightning strikes statewide, of which 560 caused fires. As part of a multiagency firefighting team under the overall direction of Cal Fire, park district firefighters fought fires on park district land and other open space, wherever needed, from Round Valley and Morgan Territory near Brentwood to Sunol and Ohlone Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County.
“Fires started within five regional parks. To give an idea of the area involved, the Calaveras and Canyon (zones of the SCU Lightning) Complex fire, encompassing about seven counties, has burned more than 366,000 acres as of this writing,” she said.
The firefighting effort has required mobilization of the district’s entire firefighting team. This comprises 23 full-time firefighters and some 34 on-call firefighter staff — district employees with other primary occupations but who are also fully trained firefighters available when needed. The on-call firefighters were released from their primary district jobs to reinforce the full-timers. And the park district lifeguard staff set up a camp at the district’s public safety headquarters in Castro Valley for firefighters coming off the line. The camp design conformed to COVID-19 safety protocols.
Another asset is the district’s Eagle 7 helicopter unit, which was one of the only early air resources available. Using the helicopters’ Bambi bucket capability, the Eagle pilots worked every day, assisting Cal Fire by dropping more than 4,000 gallons of water on the fires.
A notable effort was at Camp Arroyo in Del Valle Regional Park, south of Livermore. Camp Arroyo provides an environmental education experience to children during the school year. In the summer and on some school year weekends, it serves as a camp for children with life-threatening illnesses, in partnership with the Taylor Family Foundation.
During the fire emergency, district firefighters, rangers and park operations staff spent three days at Del Valle Regional Park and Camp Arroyo, making the site more fire-safe by clearing vegetation and securing buildings. Chief Theile called it a “tremendous effort.” As a result, if the fire does come through, a lot of fire damage will be averted. A final assessment of damage will have to await post-fire inspection, but it appears that the Sunol Regional Wilderness visitor center was spared. Park residents were evacuated from Round Valley and Mission Peak.
Because of the fire emergency, the district closed all regional parks on Aug. 21, except for some shoreline parks and paved interpark regional trails. Chief Theile gave several reasons. For one, the air quality was really bad. Apart from health concerns, the thick haze made it impossible for firefighters to tell whether a fire was actually burning within a park.
Also, in the event that a fire did occur, firefighters and police would have a serious problem finding and evacuating park visitors or dealing with other emergencies. Their jobs are already dangerous enough. Finally, Cal Fire officials informed the district that 96% of their available resources were committed to the fires in the Bay Area and elsewhere in the state. Resources were stretched so thin, Cal Fire said, that if a fire started in another regional park, the park district might have to fight it without assistance.
As of Aug. 27, improving conditions allowed reopening of most of the regional parks that had been closed. Exceptions were parks directly impacted by the fire: Del Valle, Mission Peak, Morgan Territory, Ohlone Wilderness, Round Valley and Sunol. If it becomes necessary to close regional parks again, the park district urges everyone to abide by the rules. Please do not enter a regional park that has been closed. By doing so, you can endanger yourself and others and force already overworked firefighters and police to divert resources from emergencies to escort you from the area.
For up-to-date information about the status of regional parks, visit the district website at ebparks.org. Fire and COVID-19 reports are right at the top of the home page.
Ned MacKay writes about East Bay Regional Park District sites and activities. Email him at nedmackay@comcast.net.


Word Game: Aug. 30, 2020

Can you find 57 or more words in CELEBRITY ?
To purchase the Word Game book , visit WordGameBooks.com .
@ @ @ @ @ $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
Words must be of four or more @ @ @ @ @ that acquire four letters by the addition of “ s , ” such as “ @ @ @ @ @ , ” are not allowed .
3 .
Additional words made by adding a “ @ @ @ @ @ s ” may not be used .
For example , if “ bake ” is @ @ @ @ @ or “ bakes ” are not allowed , but “ bake ” and “ baking @ @ @ @ @ .
Proper nouns , slang words , or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not @ @

TODAY’S WORD — CELEBRITY (CELEBRITY: seh-LEB-rih-tee: A famous person.)
Average mark 38 words
Time limit 60 minutes
Can you find 57 or more words in CELEBRITY?
TODAY’S WORD — CELEBRITY celerity celery cire cite city creel crib cyber eely
eerily eery elect elite erect eyrie leer leery liberty lice lire liter lyre lyric beer beet
belie belt beret beryl betel bier bile bite biter byre byte rebel recite reel relic relit
rely retie rice rile rite telic tier tile tiler tire trebel tree trey tribe trice Yeti
To purchase the Word Game book, visit WordGameBooks.com. Order it now for just $5 while supplies last!
RULES OF THE GAME:
1. Words must be of four or more letters.
2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed.
3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” are not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible.
4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.
Contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe at kzsaxe@gmail.com.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Horoscopes Aug. 30, 2020: Cameron Diaz, take control, be direct and ask for what you want

Happy Birthday : Take control , be direct and ask for what you want .
It ’ s up to you to take advantage of what ’ s available to you .
Taking swift action to disclose information that can help you advance will keep you ahead of any competition you face along the way .
Make positive change your objective , and you will be pleased with the results .
Your numbers are 3 , 12 , 19 , 26 , 33 , 42 , 46 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Don ’ t leave anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to happen , and you won ’ t be disappointed .
It ’ s up to you to take charge and make your voice heard .
Arguing won ’ t help , but knowledge , information and a solid plan will .
4 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Your feelings will be hard to hide .
Face facts , address pending problems and do your best to fix what isn ’ t working .
Refuse to let the decisions others make interfere with your plans .
Do your own thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 ) : Don ’ t ignore what ’ s going on around you .
Being fully aware of what others are doing will give you the edge you need to follow through with your plans .
Don ’ t let an emotional incident cause a rift between you and someone you love .
5 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : An unexpected turn of events will leave you scrambling to maintain order .
Don ’ t let anger set in when balance and harmony are what ’ s required .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ come up with a plan that will help you keep the peace .
3 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Take time out to rest .
You need to maintain strength and avoid unnecessary health risks .
Take the necessary precautions , regardless of what others do .
Rethink your strategy and how you spend your time .
Consider enforcing a personal overhaul .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Verify facts .
Don ’ t rely on others to give you the information you require .
Handle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more thought into your personal life .
It ’ s up to you to make the first move if you want to change your lifestyle .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Take the initiative to do what ’ s best for you .
Step away from people who lower your self-esteem and play with your emotions .
Don ’ t jump into something you aren ’ t ready for , but consider what it will take to make your life easier .
5 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ before it escalates .
Pay attention to loved ones and friends you may have neglected due to your busy schedule .
Reassess your relationships based on the reaction you get to a peace offering .
Romance is encouraged .
2 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Look at the possibilities , but don ’ t jump into something without collecting the facts and figures .
You can make home improvements as long as you stick to a budget and you make sure it won ’ t upset a neighbor or someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : A change someone makes will blindside you .
Take a step back and consider your options before you make a fuss .
An intelligent approach will ensure that you come out on top .
A solution you offer will turn you into a hero .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Don ’ t feel you have to change to appease others .
Do what ’ s best for you , and give others the freedom to do as they please .
Focus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to express how you feel and what you want .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : Make up your mind , and follow through with your plans or take a pass .
Let your intuition guide you , and you will find the path that is best suited to you .
Romance will bring you closer to someone you love .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are opportunistic , courageous and innovative .
You are humorous and demonstrative .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Andy Roddick, 38; Lisa Ling, 47; Cameron Diaz, 48; Michael Chiklis, 57.
Happy Birthday: Take control, be direct and ask for what you want. It’s up to you to take advantage of what’s available to you. Taking swift action to disclose information that can help you advance will keep you ahead of any competition you face along the way. Make positive change your objective, and you will be pleased with the results. Your numbers are 3, 12, 19, 26, 33, 42, 46.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Don’t leave anything to chance. Manufacture what you want to happen, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s up to you to take charge and make your voice heard. Arguing won’t help, but knowledge, information and a solid plan will. 4 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Your feelings will be hard to hide. Face facts, address pending problems and do your best to fix what isn’t working. Refuse to let the decisions others make interfere with your plans. Do your own thing. 2 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Don’t ignore what’s going on around you. Being fully aware of what others are doing will give you the edge you need to follow through with your plans. Don’t let an emotional incident cause a rift between you and someone you love. 5 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): An unexpected turn of events will leave you scrambling to maintain order. Don’t let anger set in when balance and harmony are what’s required. Use intelligence, and you’ll come up with a plan that will help you keep the peace. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take time out to rest. You need to maintain strength and avoid unnecessary health risks. Take the necessary precautions, regardless of what others do. Rethink your strategy and how you spend your time. Consider enforcing a personal overhaul. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Verify facts. Don’t rely on others to give you the information you require. Handle legal and financial matters yourself. Put more thought into your personal life. It’s up to you to make the first move if you want to change your lifestyle. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Take the initiative to do what’s best for you. Step away from people who lower your self-esteem and play with your emotions. Don’t jump into something you aren’t ready for, but consider what it will take to make your life easier. 5 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Deal with a sensitive issue before it escalates. Pay attention to loved ones and friends you may have neglected due to your busy schedule. Reassess your relationships based on the reaction you get to a peace offering. Romance is encouraged. 2 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Look at the possibilities, but don’t jump into something without collecting the facts and figures. You can make home improvements as long as you stick to a budget and you make sure it won’t upset a neighbor or someone who lives with you. 4 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A change someone makes will blindside you. Take a step back and consider your options before you make a fuss. An intelligent approach will ensure that you come out on top. A solution you offer will turn you into a hero. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t feel you have to change to appease others. Do what’s best for you, and give others the freedom to do as they please. Focus on building confidence and gaining the courage to express how you feel and what you want. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Make up your mind, and follow through with your plans or take a pass. Let your intuition guide you, and you will find the path that is best suited to you. Romance will bring you closer to someone you love. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are opportunistic, courageous and innovative. You are humorous and demonstrative.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Bridge: Aug. 30, 2020

Tournament ( duplicate ) bridge has three types of competitions : matchpoint pairs , IMP teams ( and sometimes IMP pairs ) and board-a-match teams .
IMP scoring resembles Chicago or party bridge : Your goal as declarer is to make the contract .
At matchpoints or board-a-match , the aim is to outscore other pairs by any margin , so overtricks may be a factor .
Inexperienced players sometimes forget what game they ’ re playing .
In today ’ s deal from an IMP team match , South ’ s bid of three hearts was an error .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Since South ’ s bidding suggested six hearts and four diamonds , North lifted to four hearts .
West led the jack of spades , and South took the king , led a club to dummy and returned a trump to finesse with the jack — and West casually played low .
South then went to dummy ’ s second high club , threw his last club on the ace of spades and led a trump to his ten .
This time West took his queen and forced South to ruff a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and forced South to ruff another spade with his last trump , and South had lost control .
He took two high diamonds , but West won the last two tricks with a trump and a good spade .
West defended well — South succeeds if West wins the first trump — but South must have thought he was playing matchpoints .
To assure his contract , South leads the king of trumps at Trick Two .
He has time to force out West ’ s two honors , draw trumps and take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clubs and two spades .

Tournament (duplicate) bridge has three types of competitions: matchpoint pairs, IMP teams (and sometimes IMP pairs) and board-a-match teams. IMP scoring resembles Chicago or party bridge: Your goal as declarer is to make the contract. At matchpoints or board-a-match, the aim is to outscore other pairs by any margin, so overtricks may be a factor.
Inexperienced players sometimes forget what game they’re playing. In today’s deal from an IMP team match, South’s bid of three hearts was an error. He should have raised North to 3NT.
Since South’s bidding suggested six hearts and four diamonds, North lifted to four hearts. West led the jack of spades, and South took the king, led a club to dummy and returned a trump to finesse with the jack — and West casually played low. South then went to dummy’s second high club, threw his last club on the ace of spades and led a trump to his ten.
This time West took his queen and forced South to ruff a spade. West won the next trump and forced South to ruff another spade with his last trump, and South had lost control. He took two high diamonds, but West won the last two tricks with a trump and a good spade.
West defended well — South succeeds if West wins the first trump — but South must have thought he was playing matchpoints. To assure his contract, South leads the king of trumps at Trick Two. He has time to force out West’s two honors, draw trumps and take three trumps, three diamonds, two clubs and two spades.
South dealer
E-W vulnerable
NORTH
S A 6 5 4 2
H 5 2
D 8 7 3
C A K 6
WEST
S J 10 9 8 7
H A Q 7 6
D 4 2
C 10 4
EAST
S Q 3
H 4 3
D J 10 9 6
C Q J 9 8 3
SOUTH
S K
H K J 10 9 8
D A K Q 5
C 7 5 2
South West North East
1 H Pass 1 S Pass
2 D Pass 2 NT Pass
3 H(!)Pass 4 H All Pass
Opening lead — S J
(C)2020 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Ask Amy: I cut off this alleged abuser, then I heard his side of the story

Dear Amy : A month ago , my friend “ Daniel ” disclosed to me that he was being abused by his boyfriend , “ Edward , ” another friend of mine .
I took Daniel at his word and decided to quietly discontinue my friendship with Edward .
Soon after this conversation , I learned that Edward was telling people that he was the one being abused , and that Daniel was labeling him the perpetrator in order to further isolate him .
I firmly stand by the idea of believing survivors , but I don ’ t know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accusations .
As if this weren ’ t enough , the situation has wreaked havoc on my own abuse-related PTSD .
• Ask Amy : How will I know when to cut my boyfriend loose ?
• Ask Amy : Our son ’ s girlfriend is from a wealthy family , and that has become a problem • Ask Amy : He won ’ t follow the rules , and it ’ s ruining my happy home • Ask Amy : I wouldn ’ t let her in my car , and she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I tell my boyfriend ’ s parents I really need $ 5,000 ?
I ’ m not looking for you to deduce who ’ s telling the truth , I just have no clue how to start unpacking this .
If either Daniel or Edward asks me for further support , what should I say ?
What if I reach the wrong conclusion , side with an abuser , and further harm the victim ?
How would I even support a survivor facing false allegations , when others believe he ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t believe it is necessary ( or perhaps even possible ) to tease out the absolute truth in order to respond appropriately to both men .
You should convey to both : “ I ’ m so sorry this is happening .
It is important that you two separate and that you each get individual professional help.
” In order to guard your own recovery , you might not be able to be a consistent sounding board to either man , and pointing each toward counseling will emphasize a boundary that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Recently I have become engaged to a wonderful man .
We have had our share of ups and downs in our 10-year relationship .
That aside , now that we are engaged , he wants a huge wedding , while I do not .
I believe a big wedding is a lot of thankless work for greedy slobs on both sides of the family .
I am estranged from my immediate family , so there would be an awkward and empty place in the proceedings where my family might be if things were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( gladly so , especially from my mother , who is highly toxic ) , but he is still stuck on the idea of a huge wedding .
How can I explain my side without being snide or cruel ?
Dear Don ’ t Want : Well , in describing your situation to me you have been both snide and cruel , so unless you can walk back that “ greedy slobs on both sides ” comment , you two might have a bigger ( and much more important ) problem than negotiating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your history and the deeply cynical view you have of families in general ( certainly of the two families who might take part in a wedding ) , I suggest that you and your fiance meet with a couples counselor ( you can do this virtually ) for some in-depth coaching .
In discussing the size of your wedding , you two will be prompted to disclose other , deeper issues that you might have been suppressing — or ignoring — during your long history together .
Choosing to get married is a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Whether your celebration is tiny or tremendous , you deserve to feel that this next step is right , perfect , and a declaration of the kind of family you want to be a part of .
Dear Amy : I ’ m glad you are suggesting online games for people to play to keep in touch with others during this pandemic .
Please include the game Dungeons and Dragons , which has made a re-emergence in the last few years .
There are many different platforms for people to play online @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beginner groups where an experienced game or dungeon master can help you establish your game or even lead your game .
There are online videos to teach you the rules and how to play and build characters .
It ’ s a great way to meet new people , have a lot of fun , and use creative and strategic skills .
Many famous people have been opening up about playing Dungeons and Dragons for years .
Even Dame Judi Dench has been known to play while on movie sets !
Dear High @ @ @ @ @ @ @ waiting my entire career to address a letter thus ) : Thank you so much for your suggestion .
If D & D entertains Dame Judi , it should be good enough for the rest of us .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or Facebook .

Dear Amy: A month ago, my friend “Daniel” disclosed to me that he was being abused by his boyfriend, “Edward,” another friend of mine.
I took Daniel at his word and decided to quietly discontinue my friendship with Edward. Soon after this conversation, I learned that Edward was telling people that he was the one being abused, and that Daniel was labeling him the perpetrator in order to further isolate him.
I firmly stand by the idea of believing survivors, but I don’t know how to reconcile that with two opposing accusations.
As if this weren’t enough, the situation has wreaked havoc on my own abuse-related PTSD.
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Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy I’m not looking for you to deduce who’s telling the truth, I just have no clue how to start unpacking this. If either Daniel or Edward asks me for further support, what should I say?
What if I reach the wrong conclusion, side with an abuser, and further harm the victim?
How would I even support a survivor facing false allegations, when others believe he’s the perpetrator?
Accusations At Odds
Dear At Odds: I don’t believe it is necessary (or perhaps even possible) to tease out the absolute truth in order to respond appropriately to both men.
You should convey to both: “I’m so sorry this is happening. It is important that you two separate and that you each get individual professional help.”
In order to guard your own recovery, you might not be able to be a consistent sounding board to either man, and pointing each toward counseling will emphasize a boundary that you should maintain.
Dear Amy: Recently I have become engaged to a wonderful man. We have had our share of ups and downs in our 10-year relationship.
That aside, now that we are engaged, he wants a huge wedding, while I do not. I believe a big wedding is a lot of thankless work for greedy slobs on both sides of the family.
I am estranged from my immediate family, so there would be an awkward and empty place in the proceedings where my family might be if things were different.
He knows I am estranged (gladly so, especially from my mother, who is highly toxic), but he is still stuck on the idea of a huge wedding.
How can I explain my side without being snide or cruel?
Don’t Want a Big Fat Wedding
Dear Don’t Want: Well, in describing your situation to me you have been both snide and cruel, so unless you can walk back that “greedy slobs on both sides” comment, you two might have a bigger (and much more important) problem than negotiating the size of your wedding.
Given your history and the deeply cynical view you have of families in general (certainly of the two families who might take part in a wedding), I suggest that you and your fiance meet with a couples counselor (you can do this virtually) for some in-depth coaching. In discussing the size of your wedding, you two will be prompted to disclose other, deeper issues that you might have been suppressing — or ignoring — during your long history together.
Choosing to get married is a supremely optimistic act, worthy of celebration. Whether your celebration is tiny or tremendous, you deserve to feel that this next step is right, perfect, and a declaration of the kind of family you want to be a part of.
Dear Amy: I’m glad you are suggesting online games for people to play to keep in touch with others during this pandemic. Please include the game Dungeons and Dragons, which has made a re-emergence in the last few years.
There are many different platforms for people to play online with other people. You can find beginner groups where an experienced game or dungeon master can help you establish your game or even lead your game. There are online videos to teach you the rules and how to play and build characters.
It’s a great way to meet new people, have a lot of fun, and use creative and strategic skills.
Many famous people have been opening up about playing Dungeons and Dragons for years. Even Dame Judi Dench has been known to play while on movie sets!
Elanorel, High Elf Druid
Dear High Elf Druid (I’ve been waiting my entire career to address a letter thus): Thank you so much for your suggestion. If D&D entertains Dame Judi, it should be good enough for the rest of us.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Dear Abby: When should I let my headstrong teenager call the shots?

DEAR ABBY : When I had my two children in my 40s , I had zero idea of how hard it would be .
One has autism ; the other has ADHD .
My child with ADHD is very self-confident and refuses to do what we ask him to do .
He ’ s 15 and very smart , but he ’ s not able to take care of himself .
When do you stop being “ the parent ” and let them take care of themselves ?
Parenting is much harder than anything I ’ ve ever done .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cat so I gave her away .
Now I ’ m the bad guy .
• Dear Abby : My wife quit our fun hobby after one scary episode • Dear Abby : How do we tell these haters to stay away from our wedding ?
• Dear Abby : I can ’ t find a virgin my age .
Should I go younger ?
• Dear Abby : He brags about things he can ’ t possibly have done DEAR DIFFICULT : Some parents start teaching their children to be independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsibilities .
Others do it as their children mature and feel that by age 18 or 21 their supervision is no longer necessary .
There are also parents who feel their job is never over and encourage their adult children to remain dependent into their 30s , 40s and beyond .
Unfortunately , parenthood doesn ’ t come with a rule book , so the decision about when and how to step back is up to you and their father , if he is present in their lives .
DEAR ABBY : My @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us , and I love him like a brother .
The problem is , he has no degree and no car and aspires to nothing more than work in fast food part time .
We took him in to help him get through a bad divorce , and now it seems like he ’ ll never be able to leave .
He doesn ’ t make enough money to support himself and has no ambition for completing his education .
My husband is convinced there is no path for him to better himself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three of us , this has become a serious bone of contention .
How can I improve this situation ?
DEAR FRUSTRATED : You should not be supporting all three of you .
Be prepared to be the “ bad guy ” and stop the gravy train now .
Your husband ’ s best friend ’ s career limitations should not be your problem , so give him a deadline to leave and insist upon it , with the help of your husband .
If that doesn ’ t solve your problem , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawyer for guidance .
DEAR ABBY : I have four nieces I adore .
As they ’ re getting older , preteen to teen , I give them checks for birthdays and holidays .
I have told them I do it because I want them to learn about banking , saving money for college , as well as enjoying some of it .
My grandmother did the same for me when I was their age , and that ’ s how I learned to manage the money I have .
I have noticed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t deposited their checks .
I mentioned it to them a few times and their mom said they would , but they haven ’ t .
It has been five months now .
Should I just give them cash in the future and forget about the banking and money-management lesson ?
DEAR LESSONS : If this is the first time you have noticed the checks haven ’ t been cashed , it ’ s possible that they have been lost or misplaced .
If this isn ’ t the first time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prefer you give your nieces the money in the future , because it ’ s possible that she hasn ’ t set up accounts for them .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: When I had my two children in my 40s, I had zero idea of how hard it would be. One has autism; the other has ADHD.
My child with ADHD is very self-confident and refuses to do what we ask him to do. He’s 15 and very smart, but he’s not able to take care of himself.
When do you stop being “the parent” and let them take care of themselves? Parenting is much harder than anything I’ve ever done.
DIFFICULT IN TEXAS
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Dear Abby: Our teen’s messy breakup has had awkward repercussions for us Advice | Dear Abby: I was annoyed to discover why our friends picked this restaurant DEAR DIFFICULT: Some parents start teaching their children to be independent well before their teens by giving them responsibilities. Others do it as their children mature and feel that by age 18 or 21 their supervision is no longer necessary. There are also parents who feel their job is never over and encourage their adult children to remain dependent into their 30s, 40s and beyond.
Unfortunately, parenthood doesn’t come with a rule book, so the decision about when and how to step back is up to you and their father, if he is present in their lives.
DEAR ABBY: My husband’s best friend lives with us, and I love him like a brother.
The problem is, he has no degree and no car and aspires to nothing more than work in fast food part time. We took him in to help him get through a bad divorce, and now it seems like he’ll never be able to leave.
He doesn’t make enough money to support himself and has no ambition for completing his education. My husband is convinced there is no path for him to better himself. Since I’m supporting all three of us, this has become a serious bone of contention. How can I improve this situation?
FRUSTRATED IN FLORIDA
DEAR FRUSTRATED: You should not be supporting all three of you. Be prepared to be the “bad guy” and stop the gravy train now.
Your husband’s best friend’s career limitations should not be your problem, so give him a deadline to leave and insist upon it, with the help of your husband. If that doesn’t solve your problem, you may need the help of a lawyer for guidance.
DEAR ABBY: I have four nieces I adore. As they’re getting older, preteen to teen, I give them checks for birthdays and holidays. I have told them I do it because I want them to learn about banking, saving money for college, as well as enjoying some of it. My grandmother did the same for me when I was their age, and that’s how I learned to manage the money I have.
I have noticed, though, that my nieces haven’t deposited their checks. I mentioned it to them a few times and their mom said they would, but they haven’t. It has been five months now. Should I just give them cash in the future and forget about the banking and money-management lesson?
LESSONS LEARNED IN WASHINGTON
DEAR LESSONS: If this is the first time you have noticed the checks haven’t been cashed, it’s possible that they have been lost or misplaced.
If this isn’t the first time, then ask their mother how she would prefer you give your nieces the money in the future, because it’s possible that she hasn’t set up accounts for them.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Oakland police and protesters clash Saturday night

Oakland Police and protesters in the city were clashing late Saturday night after an evening of mostly peaceful demonstrations calling for social justice , the defunding of police and the end to systemic racism .
Protests in Oakland have been ongoing since March , but the more recent gatherings began Wednesday .
On Friday night , several people were arrested , including one for shining a laser pointer at police , a misdemeanor that carries a maximum sentence of 30 days in jail .
Police say the crowd began marching on Grand and blocking traffic there and on Mandana Avenue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlawful ” and ordered the crowds to disperse , a move , police allege , that resulted in rocks and bottles being thrown and lasers aimed at officers .
One officer was said to have been injured .
Police also say those in the crowd were using shields to assault the officers .
Other protests have included what police have called “ agitators.
” On Wednesday night , upward of 700 participants marched through city streets , with some setting fires , breaking windows , spray-painting slogans and lighting off fireworks , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at officers .

More than 100 demonstrators took to the streets of Oakland late Saturday to again call for social justice, the defunding of police and the end to systemic racism.
Police said they arrested six people after declaring an unlawful assembly shortly before 10 p.m. as the crowd marched in the Grand Lake district. Authorities said some threw objects such as rocks and bottles at officers, injuring one.
The march was the third demonstration in the last week in Oakland, following the police shooting of Jacob Blake, a Black man, in Kenosha, Wisc. On Friday night, a dozen protestors were arrested in Oakland, while others marched in San Jose, including a small number who vandalized the home of Mayor Sam Liccardo.
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Israel’s Netanyahu released from hospital ahead of key vote on legal overhaul Politics | Protesters try to storm Baghdad’s Green Zone over the burning of Quran and Iraqi flag in Denmark Police said the crowd on Saturday night began marching on Grand Avenue and blocking traffic there and on Mandana Avenue. After the unlawful-assembly declaration, police ordered the crowds to disperse, a move, they said, that resulted in rocks and bottles being thrown and lasers pointed at officers.
On Wednesday night, more than 700 people marched peacefully through city streets, with a smaller number lighting small fires, and other vandalism, police said.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--Giants snap three-game losing streak against D’backs, Trevor Cahill leaves early with injury

With fewer than 48 hours to go until Monday ’ s trade deadline , the Giants began Saturday ’ s game against the Diamondbacks with pressure to perform .
A 15-19 record suggested the Giants are in better position to sell than buy at the trade deadline , but several players have reiterated confidence in the team ’ s playoff potential in recent days and expressed hope the club would have a chance to stick together for the stretch run .
Following three consecutive losses in which the offense looked overmatched against the Dodgers and D ’ backs , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saturday ’ s game .
Four runs in the first three innings and a dominant night from the Giants ’ bullpen helped the club snap a three-game losing streak with a 5-2 win over the D ’ backs .
Giants right-hander Trevor Cahill enjoyed a strong start to Saturday ’ s game , but exited in the bottom of the fourth inning with left hip discomfort .
Cahill labored through the bottom of the third and appeared to be in pain before giving up a two-run home run to Christian Walker in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a potential trade candidate based on his performance in recent outings , but it ’ s now likely he ’ ll remain with the Giants for the remainder of the season after leaving his start ahead of schedule .
When Cahill exited , five Giants relievers combined to shut out the D ’ backs the rest of the way .
The Giants outhit the D ’ backs 13-3 , but failed to capitalize on several opportunities , so another impressive night from a bullpen that has been much more reliable over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ critical to the Giants ’ success .
Prior to a three-run outburst in the ninth inning of Friday ’ s game that forced the D ’ backs to warm up closer Archie Bradley , the Giants had scored just one run in their previous 22 innings .
The offense was able to carry over its momentum from late in Friday ’ s loss into the early innings against Arizona starter Luke Weaver as the Giants scored in each of their first three innings .
After a two-hit showing that included a home run @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Evan Longoria had a pair of doubles against Weaver that contributed to the early rallies .
Brandon Belt and Mike Yastrzemski also delivered RBI doubles against Weaver while designated hitter Pablo Sandoval came through with a seeing-eye single in the third .
With a solo shot in the ninth inning against right-hander Kevin Ginkel , Wilmer Flores gave the Giants a critical insurance run and took over sole possession of the team lead in homers with eight this season .
Others teams eager to improve their fortunes have already begun making deals as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trevor Rosenthal while the Oakland A ’ s added former Angels second baseman Tommy La Stella , but president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi likes to take his time and might be reluctant to make any deals until the club finishes its series in Arizona .
The Giants proved last season they could cobble together several trades in the hours leading up to the deadline , so it may take until Monday for fans to see the club involved in any activity .
We Need Your Support !
Several Giants articles will remain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve launched a free newsletter and podcast that come Monday-Friday – but for access to all of my coverage you ’ ll need to subscribe to MercuryNews.com or EastBayTimes.com .
Click here for our latest Mercury News offer and here for the latest East Bay Times offer .
Thank you !
— Kerry Crowley

With fewer than 48 hours to go until Monday’s trade deadline, the Giants began Saturday’s game against the Diamondbacks with pressure to perform.
A 15-19 record suggested the Giants are in better position to sell than buy at the trade deadline, but several players have reiterated confidence in the team’s playoff potential in recent days and expressed hope the club would have a chance to stick together for the stretch run.
Following three consecutive losses in which the offense looked overmatched against the Dodgers and D’backs, the Giants wasted little time taking control of Saturday’s game.
Four runs in the first three innings and a dominant night from the Giants’ bullpen helped the club snap a three-game losing streak with a 5-2 win over the D’backs.
Giants right-hander Trevor Cahill enjoyed a strong start to Saturday’s game, but exited in the bottom of the fourth inning with left hip discomfort. Cahill labored through the bottom of the third and appeared to be in pain before giving up a two-run home run to Christian Walker in the bottom of the fourth.
Cahill emerged as a potential trade candidate based on his performance in recent outings, but it’s now likely he’ll remain with the Giants for the remainder of the season after leaving his start ahead of schedule.
When Cahill exited, five Giants relievers combined to shut out the D’backs the rest of the way. The Giants outhit the D’backs 13-3, but failed to capitalize on several opportunities, so another impressive night from a bullpen that has been much more reliable over the last two weeks turned out to be critical to the Giants’ success.
Prior to a three-run outburst in the ninth inning of Friday’s game that forced the D’backs to warm up closer Archie Bradley, the Giants had scored just one run in their previous 22 innings. The offense was able to carry over its momentum from late in Friday’s loss into the early innings against Arizona starter Luke Weaver as the Giants scored in each of their first three innings.
After a two-hit showing that included a home run in the series opener, third baseman Evan Longoria had a pair of doubles against Weaver that contributed to the early rallies.
Brandon Belt and Mike Yastrzemski also delivered RBI doubles against Weaver while designated hitter Pablo Sandoval came through with a seeing-eye single in the third.
With a solo shot in the ninth inning against right-hander Kevin Ginkel, Wilmer Flores gave the Giants a critical insurance run and took over sole possession of the team lead in homers with eight this season.
Others teams eager to improve their fortunes have already begun making deals as the Padres acquired Kansas City Royals reliever Trevor Rosenthal while the Oakland A’s added former Angels second baseman Tommy La Stella, but president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi likes to take his time and might be reluctant to make any deals until the club finishes its series in Arizona.
The Giants proved last season they could cobble together several trades in the hours leading up to the deadline, so it may take until Monday for fans to see the club involved in any activity.
We Need Your Support!
Several Giants articles will remain free every 30 days – and I’ve launched a free newsletter and podcast that come Monday-Friday – but for access to all of my coverage you’ll need to subscribe to MercuryNews.com or EastBayTimes.com. Click here for our latest Mercury News offer and here for the latest East Bay Times offer. Thank you! — Kerry Crowley


mercurynews--2020-08-30--20-year-old man shot to death in Antioch

ANTIOCH — A 20-year-old man was found shot to death on a sidewalk outside a home in Antioch Saturday morning @ @ @ @ @ gunshot wounds .
Police didn ’ t find any suspects in the area , but @ @ @ @ @ had been targeted in the killing .
The shooting was reported a little past 10 @ @ @ @ @ block of Tioga Pass Way .
Police administered CPR until emergency workers arrived , but @ @ @ @ @ the man , who was declared dead at the scene .
The killing is being @ @ @ @ @ Violent Crimes and Special Operations Unit , who are seeking suspects and people of interest @ @ @ @ @ information about the shooting to contact them at 925-778-2441 , or 925-779-6866 , or by @ @ @ @ @ at 274637 using the keyword “ ANTIOCH .
”

ANTIOCH — A 20-year-old man was fatally shot Saturday morning in what police say may have been a targeted killing.
The shooting was reported shortly after 10 a.m. Saturday in the 1800 block of Tioga Pass Way. Police arrived and found a man suffering several gunshot wounds outside a home.
Officers administered CPR until emergency workers arrived, but the man was declared dead at the scene. His identity was not immediately released.
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The killing is being investigated by Antioch’s Violent Crimes and Special Operations Unit, who are seeking suspects and people of interest. Police asked anyone with information about the shooting to contact them at 925-778-2441, or 925-779-6866, or by texting the police tip line at 274637 using the keyword “ANTIOCH.”


mercurynews--2020-08-31--The Latest: Victoria, Australia records 41 new virus deaths

By The Associated Press MELBOURNE , Australia — Victoria on Monday recorded its deadliest day of the pandemic as the Australian government urged the hot spot state to announce plans to lift lockdown restrictions .
Victoria ’ s health department reported 41 deaths and 73 new COVID-19 infections in the latest 24-hour period .
The death toll eclipses the previous record of 25 set on Aug. 17 .
The tally of new infections is the lowest since 67 new cases were recorded on June 30 in the early weeks of the second wave of the pandemic .
A six-week lockdown @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s second-largest city , is due to be relaxed on Sept. 13 .
But the state government has not said how it will be relaxed or given any assurances that it won ’ t be extended .
Australia ’ s Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on Monday he disagreed with the Victorian government that it was too early to announce plans to reopen the economy.
, “ Business is very frustrated because they haven ’ t been told when can they open up , when can people get back to work , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pointed to a Treasury Department forecast that in the next three months more people in Victoria will be receiving pandemic employment subsidies than from the rest of Australia combined .
Australia pays employers an allowance known as Job Keeper to continue paying staff who have no work to do .
Consumer spending had fallen 30 % in Victoria due to the lockdown while spending had declined by only 3 % across the rest of Australia .
HERE ’ S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE VIRUS OUTBREAK — What happens when pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ groups scramble to reach U.S. college students in pandemic HERE ’ S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING : LOGAN , Utah — Utah State University plans to test nearly 300 students for COVID-19 after wastewater samples from four dormitories showed elevated levels of the coronavirus , school officials said Sunday .
The 287 students who will be tested Sunday and Monday live in the Rich , Jones , Morgan and Davis dorms on the campus in Logan .
There have been no reported positive tests for COVID-19 in those residence halls so far .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the test results are available , which could take up to four days .
They are also asked to fill out a form to ensure they receive academic support , food deliveries and other resources .
Classes are scheduled to begin on Monday for about 28,000 undergraduate and graduate students .
Utah State is one of a small handful of schools using wastewater sampling to help safeguard against a COVID-19 outbreak , The Salt Lake Tribune reported .
Officials with the University of Arizona said Thursday the school used wastewater testing to prevent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test of just over 300 people in one dorm with elevated levels of coronavirus in the wastewater turned up two cases , said university President Robert Robbins .
Neither student had symptoms .
They were isolated .
PHILADELPHIA — Temple University has announced a two-week halt of in-person classes as Philadelphia officials called on all college and university students in the city to avoid all social gatherings with people outside their households .
Temple officials said Sunday that new test results over the weekend had pushed the number of active COVID-19 cases from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases , most of them among people with no symptoms and a small number with mild to moderate flu-like symptoms .
University president Richard Englert said officials believe they are seeing “ new cases that result from small social gatherings happening off campus.
” He said that prompted the two-week “ pause ” on in-person classes and a contact tracing effort .
Temple said in-person classes will go online starting Monday and continue online through Friday , Sept. 11 , with only classes deemed essential by college deans held in person .
ATHENS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new coronavirus cases in Greece has exceeded 10,000 , and more than half of them were reported this month , Greek health authorities announced Sunday .
Over the past day , there have been 157 new cases confirmed , of which 41 were international arrivals .
There were also two deaths .
The total number of cases is now 10,134 , of which 5,657 were detected over the past month .
The total number of deaths is 262 , of which 56 occurred in the past month .
There are 35 patients on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The government will decide Tuesday on which day schools will open .
It will choose between Sept. 7 or the following Monday , Sept. 14 .
Mask wearing will be mandatory , but some parents are opposed to this .
OKLAHOMA CITY — The number of reported coronavirus cases in Oklahoma has surpassed 58,000 and the number of related deaths is nearly 800 , the Oklahoma State Department of Health said Sunday .
There are now 58,020 reported cases and 799 deaths due to COVID-19 , the illness caused by the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Oklahoma is likely higher because many people have not been tested , and studies suggest people can be infected and not feel sick .
On Friday , Gov .
Kevin Stitt extended a state of emergency first issued March 15 in response to the virus outbreak in Oklahoma .
The order includes all 77 counties in the state and activates a provision in state law that allows absentee voters to mail their ballots by verifying their signatures with a copy of an approved identification .
An approved ID includes a state driver ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recognized Indian tribe or nation .
ROME — The number of COVID-19 patients in intensive care beds in Italy has been rising in the past few weeks .
On Sunday , 86 persons infected with the coronavirus occupied ICU beds , compared to 38 in late July , as returning vacationers drive up Italy ’ s numbers of day-to-day new caseloads as well as hospitalizations .
Italy registered 1,365 new infections since Saturday , according to Health Ministry figures .
Still , those numbers are low when compared to the daily bulletin early @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Italians each day were testing positive for COVID-19 , and a few thousand were needing intensive care , overwhelming hospital staff .
Italy counts 268,218 confirmed infections and 35,477 known deaths , including four in the last 24 hours .
After months in which the heaviest concentration of cases occurred in northern Italy , lately many southern regions are seeing sharply rising numbers .
On Sunday , Campania , the region which includes the southern metropolis of Naples , had the most new cases in Italy – 270 .
ISLAMABAD — Pakistani authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country ’ s lowest daily count for the new coronavirus in more than four months .
In a statement Sunday , the national command and control center said only four people died from the new virus in the previous 24 hours , taking overall COVID-19 deaths to 6,288 since the start of the outbreak in February .
However , health officials are still trying to understand the reason for a steady decline in infections in Pakistan , which witnessed twin peaks in June when daily confirmed cases reached up to 6,825 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ amid shortage of medicine , oxygen and ventilators , and even face masks were not easily available .
But the situation suddenly began improving after June and currently about 1,000 COVID-19 patients are being treated in Pakistan .
PARIS — Not all French classrooms can safely reopen Tuesday , the education minister acknowledged Sunday , amid a persistent rise in coronavirus infections that is threatening the government ’ s push to get France ’ s 12.9 million schoolchildren back in class .
“ It ’ s being decided by a day-by-day analysis based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer said Sunday on France-Info radio .
Some classes will remain closed , he said , but “ as few as possible.
” A collective of doctors published an appeal Saturday saying the governments ’ school virus measures aren ’ t strict enough .
It urged mask requirements for children as young as six and a mix of online and in-person schooling .
The government wants to reopen all schools starting Tuesday to reduce learning gaps worsened by the spring lockdown , and to get parents back at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported 5,453 new daily infections Saturday , compared to several hundred a day in May and June .
The national health service says the growth is exponential , and neighboring countries have imposed quarantines or testing for people arriving from parts or all of France .
The number of confirmed coronavirus cases globally has topped 25 million , according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University .
The U.S. leads the count with 5.9 million cases , followed by Brazil with 3.8 million and India with 3.5 million .
The real number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the world is believed to be much higher — perhaps 10 times higher in the U.S. , according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — given testing limitations and the many mild cases that have gone unreported or unrecognized .
Global deaths from COVID-19 stand at over 842,000 , with the U.S. having the highest number with 182,779 , followed by Brazil with 120,262 and Mexico with 63,819 .
NEW DELHI — India has registered a record new 78,761 coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours , the worst single-day spike @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continues to further ease pandemic restrictions nationwide .
The Health Ministry on Sunday also reported 948 deaths in the past 24 hours , taking total fatalities to 63,498 .
India now has the fastest-growing daily coronavirus caseload of any country in the world , and has reported more than 75,000 infections for the fourth consecutive day .
Sunday ’ s surge has raised the country ’ s total virus tally to over 3.5 million and comes at a time when India is reopening its subway networks and allowing sports and religious events in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of efforts to revive the economy .
The crowded subway , a lifeline for millions of people in capital New Delhi , will be reopened in a phased manner from Sept. 7 .
Schools and colleges will , however , remain closed until the end of September .
The South Asian country has the third-highest caseload after the United States and Brazil , and its fatalities are the fourth-highest .
Even as eight Indian states remain among the worst-hit regions and contribute nearly 73 % of the total infections , the virus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hinterlands , with experts warning that the month of September could be the most challenging .
SEOUL , South Korea — South Korea has reported 299 new cases of the coronavirus as officials placed limits on dining at restaurants and closed fitness centers and after-school academies in the greater capital area to slow the spread of the virus .
The 17th consecutive day of triple-digit increases brought the national caseload to 19,699 , including 323 deaths .
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 209 of the new cases came from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ province as well as Incheon , a region that had been at the center of a viral resurgence this month .
Health authorities have ordered churches and nightspots to close and shifted more schools back to remote learning nationwide as infections spiked in recent weeks .
For eight days starting Sunday , restaurants in the Seoul metropolitan area will be allowed to provide only deliveries and takeouts after 9 p.m .
Franchised coffee shops like Starbucks will sell only takeout drinks and food .
WINDOW ROCK , Ariz. — Navajo Nation health officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brings the number of fatalities from the coronavirus to 500 .
The Navajo Nation on Friday night reported the additional death as well as 14 more confirmed cases of COVID-19 .
That brings the total number of people infected to 9,780 .
But that includes 165 cases that occurred between early April and mid-August and were recently identified as COVID-19 related .
Navajo officials said 94,099 people have been tested for the coronavirus and 7,032 have recovered .
The Navajo Nation lifted its stay-at-home order on Aug. 16 , but is asking residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
HONOLULU — The Hawaii Department of Public Safety says that three inmates and one staff member at the Oahu Community Correction Center tested positive for COVID-19 .
There are now more than 300 people who have tested positive at the Honolulu facility , including 256 inmates and 53 employees , the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported .
Early in the pandemic , several advocacy groups raised concerns about the safety of others crowded in jails and prisons statewide and mentioned the risk of an outbreak .
Since then , the Hawaii Supreme Court has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for misdemeanor and petty misdemeanor crimes to open space in the facilities .
The state Department of Health has reported more than 7,800 confirmed coronavirus cases and 59 deaths , including 265 newly confirmed cases and four deaths , as of Friday .
PHOENIX — Arizona has reached a grim milestone of more than 5,000 known coronavirus deaths .
The state Department of Health Services reported 629 confirmed coronavirus cases and 29 more deaths on Saturday to total 5,007 .
Meanwhile , Arizona State University President Michael Crow says 452 students have tested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ half involve students who live off campus in the metro Phoenix area .
Crow says 205 students are currently in quarantine on the Tempe campus .
MIAMI — Health officials in Florida are reporting 150 new deaths from COVID-19 and 3,197 new confirmed cases .
The new deaths bring the average daily toll reported over the past week to 120 .
The number of new known cases is down from peaks averaging nearly 12,000 daily in mid-July .
The positivity rate in testing has averaged below 10 percent over the past week .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitals for coronavirus has also been declining since highs of more than 9,500 on July 23 .
ANCHORAGE , Alaska — Restaurants and bars in Anchorage will reopen Monday for dine-in service with some restrictions after city officials announced an updated emergency order .
Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz has replaced a four-week order , which closed food establishments to indoor service and drew criticism from the industry .
That order expired Sunday .
The updated regulation means businesses can resume dine-in service at no more than 50 % of building capacity .
Patrons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Masks must be worn by all employees , and also by customers when they aren ’ t eating or drinking In Alaska , more than 5,000 people have tested positive for the coronavirus since March and 37 have died .
CHICAGO — Freshmen and sophomore students at Northwestern University will take classes remotely , the Chicago school announced .
The Chicago Tribune reports Northwestern University officials originally planned for undergraduate students to return to campus .
The university also is keeping fraternity and sorority houses shuttered during the fall semester .
Students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ graduate and professional programs are allowed on campus and can take classes remotely , in person or a mix of both .
Universities around the country have struggled with plans for the fall semester as the coronavirus continues to spread .
Early outbreaks forced some schools ’ administrators to cancel in-person classes temporarily or for the fall semester .

By The Associated Press
HONG KONG — Hong Kong authorities say nearly half a million people have registered for a free universal coronavirus testing program that is due to begin Tuesday.
Residents registering online have already booked out 80 testing sites located in gymnasiums and community centers for the initial day of the program, according to the government’s website. It said other centers still have places if the number of those signing on rises above the 420,000 registered as of late Sunday.
Hong Kong launched the program in an effort to track down paths of infection that have consistently added to case numbers despite strict social distancing and other measures imposed on the densely populated semi-autonomous Chinese city of 7.5 million. All who wish to be tested can do so at no cost.
Hong Kong on Sunday reported another 15 cases of coronavirus and one additional COVID-19 fatality, bringing its totals to 4,801 cases and 88 deaths.
Mainland China on Monday reported 17 new cases found over the previous 24 hours, all of them brought from outside the country. China currently has 237 people being treated in hospital for COVID-19, with another 340 in isolation after testing positive for the virus without displaying symptoms. China has reported 4,634 deaths among 85,048 cases of COVID-19 since novel coronavirus was first detected late last year in the central Chinese city of Wuhan.
___
HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE VIRUS OUTBREAK
— Fad or future? Telehealth expansion eyed beyond pandemic
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— German leaders condemn far-right attempt to storm Reichstag
Voting groups scramble to reach U.S. college students in pandemic
___
Follow AP’s pandemic coverage at http://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak and https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
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HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:
SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea has counted its 18th straight day of triple-digit daily jumps in coronavirus cases as its health minister warned about an increase in transmissions gone untraced, and infections among senior citizens.
The 248 new cases reported by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Monday brought the national caseload to 19,947, including 324 deaths.
KCDC said 187 of the new cases came from the densely populated Seoul metropolitan area, which have been at the center of the viral resurgence this month.
But infections were also reported in major cities across the country, including Busan, Daejeon, Ulsan and Daegu, which was the epicenter of the country’s previous major outbreak in late February and March that was stabilized by April.
Health Minister Park Neung-hoo during a virus meeting said it has become difficult for epidemiological workers to track transmissions and predict infection routes, saying they haven’t been able to trace the infection source of more than 20% of the cases found in the past two weeks.
Officials are also concerned that the death toll could rise because many of those who tested positive this month were 60 years or older, an age group that’s more likely to experience serious health complications caused by the virus.
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MELBOURNE, Australia — Victoria on Monday recorded its deadliest day of the pandemic as the Australian government urged the hot spot state to announce plans to lift lockdown restrictions.
Victoria’s health department reported 41 deaths and 73 new COVID-19 infections in the latest 24-hour period.
The death toll eclipses the previous record of 25 set on Aug. 17. The tally of new infections is the lowest since 67 new cases were recorded on June 30 in the early weeks of the second wave of the pandemic.
A six-week lockdown in the state capital Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city, is due to be relaxed on Sept. 13. But the state government has not said how it will be relaxed or given any assurances that it won’t be extended.
Australia’s Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said on Monday he disagreed with the Victorian government that it was too early to announce plans to reopen the economy.,
“Business is very frustrated because they haven’t been told when can they open up, when can people get back to work,” Frydenberg told Nine Network television.
Frydenberg pointed to a Treasury Department forecast that in the next three months more people in Victoria will be receiving pandemic employment subsidies than from the rest of Australia combined. Australia pays employers an allowance known as Job Keeper to continue paying staff who have no work to do.
Consumer spending had fallen 30% in Victoria due to the lockdown while spending had declined by only 3% across the rest of Australia.
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LOGAN, Utah — Utah State University plans to test nearly 300 students for COVID-19 after wastewater samples from four dormitories showed elevated levels of the coronavirus, school officials said Sunday.
The 287 students who will be tested Sunday and Monday live in the Rich, Jones, Morgan and Davis dorms on the campus in Logan. There have been no reported positive tests for COVID-19 in those residence halls so far. Students in those dorms must quarantine until the test results are available, which could take up to four days.
They are also asked to fill out a form to ensure they receive academic support, food deliveries and other resources. Classes are scheduled to begin on Monday for about 28,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Utah State is one of a small handful of schools using wastewater sampling to help safeguard against a COVID-19 outbreak, The Salt Lake Tribune reported. Officials with the University of Arizona said Thursday the school used wastewater testing to prevent a COVID-19 outbreak on campus.
A test of just over 300 people in one dorm with elevated levels of coronavirus in the wastewater turned up two cases, said university President Robert Robbins. Neither student had symptoms. They were isolated.
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PHILADELPHIA — Temple University has announced a two-week halt of in-person classes as Philadelphia officials called on all college and university students in the city to avoid all social gatherings with people outside their households.
Temple officials said Sunday that new test results over the weekend had pushed the number of active COVID-19 cases from the 58 reported Friday to 103 active cases, most of them among people with no symptoms and a small number with mild to moderate flu-like symptoms.
University president Richard Englert said officials believe they are seeing “new cases that result from small social gatherings happening off campus.” He said that prompted the two-week “pause” on in-person classes and a contact tracing effort.
Temple said in-person classes will go online starting Monday and continue online through Friday, Sept. 11, with only classes deemed essential by college deans held in person.
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ATHENS, Greece — The confirmed number of new coronavirus cases in Greece has exceeded 10,000, and more than half of them were reported this month, Greek health authorities announced Sunday.
Over the past day, there have been 157 new cases confirmed, of which 41 were international arrivals. There were also two deaths.
The total number of cases is now 10,134, of which 5,657 were detected over the past month. The total number of deaths is 262, of which 56 occurred in the past month.
There are 35 patients on ventilators and 149 have exited intensive care.
The government will decide Tuesday on which day schools will open. It will choose between Sept. 7 or the following Monday, Sept. 14. Mask wearing will be mandatory, but some parents are opposed to this.
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OKLAHOMA CITY — The number of reported coronavirus cases in Oklahoma has surpassed 58,000 and the number of related deaths is nearly 800, the Oklahoma State Department of Health said Sunday.
There are now 58,020 reported cases and 799 deaths due to COVID-19, the illness caused by the virus. The true number of cases in Oklahoma is likely higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected and not feel sick.
On Friday, Gov. Kevin Stitt extended a state of emergency first issued March 15 in response to the virus outbreak in Oklahoma.
The order includes all 77 counties in the state and activates a provision in state law that allows absentee voters to mail their ballots by verifying their signatures with a copy of an approved identification. An approved ID includes a state driver’s license or a military or federally recognized Indian tribe or nation.
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ROME — The number of COVID-19 patients in intensive care beds in Italy has been rising in the past few weeks.
On Sunday, 86 persons infected with the coronavirus occupied ICU beds, compared to 38 in late July, as returning vacationers drive up Italy’s numbers of day-to-day new caseloads as well as hospitalizations.
Italy registered 1,365 new infections since Saturday, according to Health Ministry figures. Still, those numbers are low when compared to the daily bulletin early in the pandemic, when thousands of Italians each day were testing positive for COVID-19, and a few thousand were needing intensive care, overwhelming hospital staff.
Italy counts 268,218 confirmed infections and 35,477 known deaths, including four in the last 24 hours. After months in which the heaviest concentration of cases occurred in northern Italy, lately many southern regions are seeing sharply rising numbers. On Sunday, Campania, the region which includes the southern metropolis of Naples, had the most new cases in Italy – 270.
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ISLAMABAD — Pakistani authorities have reported 264 new COVID-19 cases, the country’s lowest daily count for the new coronavirus in more than four months.
In a statement Sunday, the national command and control center said only four people died from the new virus in the previous 24 hours, taking overall COVID-19 deaths to 6,288 since the start of the outbreak in February.
However, health officials are still trying to understand the reason for a steady decline in infections in Pakistan, which witnessed twin peaks in June when daily confirmed cases reached up to 6,825.
It was then when hospitals were full amid shortage of medicine, oxygen and ventilators, and even face masks were not easily available.
But the situation suddenly began improving after June and currently about 1,000 COVID-19 patients are being treated in Pakistan.
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PARIS — Not all French classrooms can safely reopen Tuesday, the education minister acknowledged Sunday, amid a persistent rise in coronavirus infections that is threatening the government’s push to get France’s 12.9 million schoolchildren back in class.
“It’s being decided by a day-by-day analysis based on the health situation of each territory,” Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer said Sunday on France-Info radio. Some classes will remain closed, he said, but “as few as possible.”
A collective of doctors published an appeal Saturday saying the governments’ school virus measures aren’t strict enough. It urged mask requirements for children as young as six and a mix of online and in-person schooling.
The government wants to reopen all schools starting Tuesday to reduce learning gaps worsened by the spring lockdown, and to get parents back at work and revive the economy.
France reported 5,453 new daily infections Saturday, compared to several hundred a day in May and June. The national health service says the growth is exponential, and neighboring countries have imposed quarantines or testing for people arriving from parts or all of France.
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The number of confirmed coronavirus cases globally has topped 25 million, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University.
The U.S. leads the count with 5.9 million cases, followed by Brazil with 3.8 million and India with 3.5 million.
The real number of people infected by the virus around the world is believed to be much higher — perhaps 10 times higher in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — given testing limitations and the many mild cases that have gone unreported or unrecognized.
Global deaths from COVID-19 stand at over 842,000, with the U.S. having the highest number with 182,779, followed by Brazil with 120,262 and Mexico with 63,819.
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NEW DELHI — India has registered a record new 78,761 coronavirus cases in the past 24 hours, the worst single-day spike in the world, as the government continues to further ease pandemic restrictions nationwide.
The Health Ministry on Sunday also reported 948 deaths in the past 24 hours, taking total fatalities to 63,498.
India now has the fastest-growing daily coronavirus caseload of any country in the world, and has reported more than 75,000 infections for the fourth consecutive day.
Sunday’s surge has raised the country’s total virus tally to over 3.5 million and comes at a time when India is reopening its subway networks and allowing sports and religious events in a limited manner from next month as part of efforts to revive the economy.
The crowded subway, a lifeline for millions of people in capital New Delhi, will be reopened in a phased manner from Sept. 7. Schools and colleges will, however, remain closed until the end of September.
The South Asian country has the third-highest caseload after the United States and Brazil, and its fatalities are the fourth-highest.
Even as eight Indian states remain among the worst-hit regions and contribute nearly 73% of the total infections, the virus is now spreading fast in the vast hinterlands, with experts warning that the month of September could be the most challenging.


mercurynews--2020-08-30--SF Giants: Johnny Cueto delivers series win over Diamondbacks ahead of trade deadline

Johnny Cueto was on the money Sunday .
It was enough to deliver the San Francisco Giants a 4-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks — but was it enough to convince a pitching-starved contender to take on all his money Monday ?
That ’ s one of many questions for the Giants with the MLB trade deadline looming less than 24 hours away .
Another : Are they themselves a contender who could use Cueto ’ s services down the stretch ?
The win in Arizona on Sunday gave them a series win over one division rival and pulled them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Colorado Rockies , currently in the second wild-card spot and up next on San Francisco ’ s schedule with a three-game series set to begin Tuesday .
First , hard decisions will have to be made by the 1 p.m. Monday trade deadline .
On Sunday , Cueto ’ s 6 2/3 strong innings carried the Giants to their first road series victory of the season — with another series away from home on deck in Colorado — and to pull them within two games of .500 .
“ It was definitely up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ starts Cueto has made since returning from Tommy John surgery last season , ” manager Gabe Kapler said .
“ I think he even added an additional wrinkle to his delivery today that we hadn ’ t seen before.
” The veteran right-hander was locating well and mixing up everything from his pitches to his delivery .
On back-to-back batters in the fourth inning , Cueto threw two-strike changeups low in the zone for swinging strikeouts .
On each , he added an extra shimmy — almost a double-clutch — before making Starling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the final two of four consecutive punch outs .
It ’ s just one way Cueto likes to “ have fun ” while he ’ s pitching , as he described it .
“ I like to invent during the game and that ’ s what I do , ” Cueto said through an interpreter .
“ It just comes on the fly.
” Cueto carried a 1-0 lead through six innings , and it appeared that might be enough for a shutout victory .
But Kapler sent Cueto back out for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leadoff walk and a single forced Cueto to use 20 pitches the inning prior , though he had been able to escape unscathed .
Cueto did not get so lucky in the seventh .
With one out and the bases empty , Arizona third baseman Eduardo Escobar forced a 2-2 count , and Cueto went back to the pitch that had given him multiple strikeouts in earlier innings .
Chadwick Tromp set up low and outside , but Cueto ’ s quick-dropping changeup stayed over the middle of the plate , and Escobar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cueto exited after issuing a two-out walk to Jake Lamb , whom he got looking as one of six strikeouts earlier in the game , taking him out of the decision .
But the Giants did not wait long to answer .
Alex Dickerson had sent the sixth pitch of the game into the right-field bleachers to get the Giants on the board .
Again in the eighth , it was Dickerson who delivered the decisive base knock .
With the bases loaded and one out in the following half inning , Dickerson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other way into left field , bringing home Brandon Crawford to pull San Francisco ahead again , 2-1 .
With Arizona ’ s infield still playing shallow , Evan Longoria followed with a knock past the outstretched glove of Ketel Marte , through the second-base hole opened by the shifted infielders , allowing two more runs to score .
The insurance runs would prove unnecessary , as the Giants bullpen closed the door with 2 1/3 clean innings .
Kapler opted to give the eighth inning to Tyler Rogers and the ninth to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1-2-3 for his first career save .
• SF Giants : As one starting pitcher leaves injured , two others nearing return • The curious case of a first round draft pick who was a late addition to the SF Giants ’ player pool • SF Giants trade deadline primer : Who could be on the move , what types of deals are in play ?
• SF Giants lose third straight , face pressure to perform ahead of Monday ’ s trade deadline The return to form Sunday was a welcome sign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allowed six runs to the Dodgers his last time out — his most of eight starts this season .
Escobar ’ s home run was the only run Cueto surrendered to the Diamondbacks and just one of three hits .
Cueto struck out six , including a stretch of four in a row , and walked three .
Some other relevant numbers : $ 26 million , or the amount Cueto is due between his 2021 guaranteed contract and 2022 club option .
That has made San Francisco ’ s other veteran starters @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trevor Cahill , Drew Smyly and Jeff Samardzija are currently injured .
The deadline intrigue has hardly captivated the clubhouse , Dickerson said .
“ I don ’ t think anybody ’ s talked about it at all , to be honest , ” Dickerson said with a chuckle over a video call .
“ It snuck up on us so fast , we ’ re just concerned with showing up to play good baseball.
” Cueto said it hadn ’ t crossed his mind but that he ’ ll be happy wherever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elsewhere .
“ I love being here in San Francisco , ” Cueto said through an interpreter .
“ I love the fans .
I ’ m not even gon na think about it .
… But yeah , if my phone rings … wherever they send me I ’ ll be happy.
” Kapler said he hasn ’ t been in touch much with the front office in the past 48 hours but believes his team is a playoff-caliber one regardless of the moves made — or not made — Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ within two games of the second wild-card , Giants executives will have to answer — in the form of action or inaction — some of those outstanding questions .
Namely : Will San Francisco ’ s roster look any different following Monday ’ s off day and 1 p.m. trade deadline ?
• The Giants will take it “ day to day ” with right-hander Trevor Cahill after he exited his start early Saturday .
An MRI revealed joint inflammation in his left hip , which Kapler said was “ nothing unexpected ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about .
• Starting pitchers Drew Smyly and Jeff Samardzija threw “ good , quality bullpens ” Saturday , Kapler said , and will throw next Tuesday in Sacramento — the final leg of rehab for injuries that have limited them to 22 combined innings this season .
• Outfielder Austin Slater is also headed to Sacramento to begin a rehab assignment .
Kapler said he will begin “ ramping up baseball activities ” at the alternate training site Monday .

Johnny Cueto was on the money Sunday. It was enough to deliver the San Francisco Giants a 4-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks — but was it enough to convince a pitching-starved contender to take on all his money Monday?
That’s one of many questions for the Giants with the MLB trade deadline looming less than 24 hours away. Another: Are they themselves a contender who could use Cueto’s services down the stretch? The win in Arizona on Sunday gave them a series win over one division rival and pulled them within one game of another, the Colorado Rockies, currently in the second wild-card spot and up next on San Francisco’s schedule with a three-game series set to begin Tuesday.
First, hard decisions will have to be made by the 1 p.m. Monday trade deadline.
On Sunday, Cueto’s 6 2/3 strong innings carried the Giants to their first road series victory of the season — with another series away from home on deck in Colorado — and to pull them within two games of .500.
“It was definitely up there,” in the pantheon of starts Cueto has made since returning from Tommy John surgery last season, manager Gabe Kapler said. “I think he even added an additional wrinkle to his delivery today that we hadn’t seen before.”
The veteran right-hander was locating well and mixing up everything from his pitches to his delivery. On back-to-back batters in the fourth inning, Cueto threw two-strike changeups low in the zone for swinging strikeouts. On each, he added an extra shimmy — almost a double-clutch — before making Starling Marte and David Peralta look foolish, the final two of four consecutive punch outs.
It’s just one way Cueto likes to “have fun” while he’s pitching, as he described it.
“I like to invent during the game and that’s what I do,” Cueto said through an interpreter. “It just comes on the fly.”
Cueto carried a 1-0 lead through six innings, and it appeared that might be enough for a shutout victory.
But Kapler sent Cueto back out for the seventh inning at 91 pitches. A leadoff walk and a single forced Cueto to use 20 pitches the inning prior, though he had been able to escape unscathed.
Cueto did not get so lucky in the seventh.
With one out and the bases empty, Arizona third baseman Eduardo Escobar forced a 2-2 count, and Cueto went back to the pitch that had given him multiple strikeouts in earlier innings. Chadwick Tromp set up low and outside, but Cueto’s quick-dropping changeup stayed over the middle of the plate, and Escobar whacked it over the right-field fence.
Cueto exited after issuing a two-out walk to Jake Lamb, whom he got looking as one of six strikeouts earlier in the game, taking him out of the decision. But the Giants did not wait long to answer.
Alex Dickerson had sent the sixth pitch of the game into the right-field bleachers to get the Giants on the board. Again in the eighth, it was Dickerson who delivered the decisive base knock.
With the bases loaded and one out in the following half inning, Dickerson popped a 95-mph Archie Bradley heater the other way into left field, bringing home Brandon Crawford to pull San Francisco ahead again, 2-1.
With Arizona’s infield still playing shallow, Evan Longoria followed with a knock past the outstretched glove of Ketel Marte, through the second-base hole opened by the shifted infielders, allowing two more runs to score.
The insurance runs would prove unnecessary, as the Giants bullpen closed the door with 2 1/3 clean innings. Kapler opted to give the eighth inning to Tyler Rogers and the ninth to Sam Coonrod, who retired the side 1-2-3 for his first career save.
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Some other relevant numbers: $26 million, or the amount Cueto is due between his 2021 guaranteed contract and 2022 club option. That has made San Francisco’s other veteran starters the more rumored trade candidates, though Trevor Cahill, Drew Smyly and Jeff Samardzija are currently injured.
The deadline intrigue has hardly captivated the clubhouse, Dickerson said.
“I don’t think anybody’s talked about it at all, to be honest,” Dickerson said with a chuckle over a video call. “It snuck up on us so fast, we’re just concerned with showing up to play good baseball.”
Cueto said it hadn’t crossed his mind but that he’ll be happy wherever he winds up — San Francisco or elsewhere.
“I love being here in San Francisco,” Cueto said through an interpreter. “I love the fans. I’m not even gonna think about it. … But yeah, if my phone rings … wherever they send me I’ll be happy.”
Kapler said he hasn’t been in touch much with the front office in the past 48 hours but believes his team is a playoff-caliber one regardless of the moves made — or not made — Monday.
Now, as one of seven team within two games of the second wild-card, Giants executives will have to answer — in the form of action or inaction — some of those outstanding questions. Namely: Will San Francisco’s roster look any different following Monday’s off day and 1 p.m. trade deadline?
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