mercurynews--2020-03-17--Horoscopes March 17, 2020: Rob Lowe, don’t let anger or negativity be your downfall this year.

Happy Birthday : Don ’ t let anger or negativity be your downfall this year .
Strive to see the good in everything and everyone .
A positive attitude will help you discourage difficult encounters with people who can make your life difficult .
Hard work , dedication and personal achievement should be your goals .
A well-thought-out move will make you feel at ease .
Your numbers are 8 , 17 , 22 , 29 , 38 , 40 , 44 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : A short trip , change of scenery or personal pick-me-up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move forward .
Don ’ t lose sight of your goal or let emotional anger throw you off .
Do your own thing , and you will make an unexpected gain .
2 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Do your best to initiate what you want to happen .
A take-charge attitude will put you in a good position and help you gain respect and recognition .
Offer dynamic suggestions and solutions , and you ’ ll impress everyone you encounter .
5 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t let anyone handle your money or personal affairs .
If you are smart and take matters into your own hands , a settlement , financial gain or gift will come your way .
Listen , observe and handle issues yourself .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Consider what ’ s available , and mull over your options and the long-term effects .
Discuss what you feel your responsibilities should be and what you want in return .
Patience will pay off , and significant advantages will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Take time to understand what ’ s happening before you go on a rant or make a decision .
It ’ s the time taken to make sure you get things right that will pay the highest dividends in the end .
Laziness will make you look bad .
3 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Live in and enjoy the moment .
Sit back and relax with friends , and take part in things that will stimulate your mind .
Love and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ positive step forward .
5 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Anger won ’ t solve anything , so avoid getting coerced into a battle .
Socialize with people who make you smile and think and bring out the best in you .
Do something that eases stress and makes you feel and look fantastic .
2 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Plan to do something special with someone you love .
A positive change in attitude will encourage you to try something that you ’ ve been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A desire for change will capture your heart and lead to intriguing considerations .
4 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Keep your head down , your focus on what you have to complete and your mind off petty annoyances and people who are manipulative or deceitful .
When faced with pressure or negativity , your best option is to be straightforward .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Try something different .
Update your appearance , get involved in something you find fascinating or make more memories @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feelings , and it will be easier to get others to side with you .
Romance is encouraged .
3 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Do something relaxing to put your mind at ease .
Refuse to jump into something because someone else does .
Make decisions geared toward your interests and goals .
Time is on your side , so put everything in place before you make a move .
3 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : The choice will be yours .
You can close and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with someone from your past or a person who has the clout to help you get ahead .
4 stars Birthday Baby : You are responsive , sensitive and dedicated .
You are unpredictable and opportunistic .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Mia Hamm, 48; Rob Lowe, 56; Gary Sinise, 65; Kurt Russell, 69.
Happy Birthday: Don’t let anger or negativity be your downfall this year. Strive to see the good in everything and everyone. A positive attitude will help you discourage difficult encounters with people who can make your life difficult. Hard work, dedication and personal achievement should be your goals. A well-thought-out move will make you feel at ease. Your numbers are 8, 17, 22, 29, 38, 40, 44.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): A short trip, change of scenery or personal pick-me-up will offer insight into how you should move forward. Don’t lose sight of your goal or let emotional anger throw you off. Do your own thing, and you will make an unexpected gain. 2 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Do your best to initiate what you want to happen. A take-charge attitude will put you in a good position and help you gain respect and recognition. Offer dynamic suggestions and solutions, and you’ll impress everyone you encounter. 5 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Avoid joint ventures, and don’t let anyone handle your money or personal affairs. If you are smart and take matters into your own hands, a settlement, financial gain or gift will come your way. Listen, observe and handle issues yourself. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Consider what’s available, and mull over your options and the long-term effects. Discuss what you feel your responsibilities should be and what you want in return. Patience will pay off, and significant advantages will be yours. Bide your time. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take time to understand what’s happening before you go on a rant or make a decision. It’s the time taken to make sure you get things right that will pay the highest dividends in the end. Laziness will make you look bad. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Live in and enjoy the moment. Sit back and relax with friends, and take part in things that will stimulate your mind. Love and romance are gaining momentum. Take a positive step forward. 5 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Anger won’t solve anything, so avoid getting coerced into a battle. Socialize with people who make you smile and think and bring out the best in you. Do something that eases stress and makes you feel and look fantastic. 2 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Plan to do something special with someone you love. A positive change in attitude will encourage you to try something that you’ve been reluctant to pursue in the past. A desire for change will capture your heart and lead to intriguing considerations. 4 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Keep your head down, your focus on what you have to complete and your mind off petty annoyances and people who are manipulative or deceitful. When faced with pressure or negativity, your best option is to be straightforward. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Try something different. Update your appearance, get involved in something you find fascinating or make more memories with someone you love. Express your feelings, and it will be easier to get others to side with you. Romance is encouraged. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Do something relaxing to put your mind at ease. Refuse to jump into something because someone else does. Make decisions geared toward your interests and goals. Time is on your side, so put everything in place before you make a move. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The choice will be yours. You can close and open a new chapter if you deal with someone from your past or a person who has the clout to help you get ahead. 4 stars
Birthday Baby: You are responsive, sensitive and dedicated. You are unpredictable and opportunistic.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Bridge: March 17, 2020

Bridge: March 17, 2020

This week ’ s deals treat the defenders ’ second-hand play .
A defender in second seat often plays low , but the game would be no fun if “ often ” meant “ always.
” Today ’ s East has thrown in a featherweight one-heart overcall , so West leads the nine against 3NT .
Declarer plays low from dummy and takes the ace .
At Trick Two he leads the eight of diamonds .
If South has a singleton diamond , the contract will surely fail whatever West does .
If South ’ s diamonds are J-8 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So West should assume that South has 8-x .
If West plays low , declarer will let the eight ride .
East must take his jack , and declarer wins the black-suit return , leads a second diamond to the queen , and takes four diamonds , three spades , a club and a heart .
West must play “ second hand high , ” putting up his king on the first diamond .
If South wins , he loses his link with dummy and can ’ t use the diamonds .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ last heart for East to run the hearts .
You hold : S A K Q 5 H A 6 4 D 8 7 C A 8 7 3 .
Your partner opens one diamond , you respond one spade and he rebids two diamonds .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : This is a matter of philosophy .
Experts tend to blast into games but investigate for slams ; a losing slam means the painful loss of a game bonus .
Hence you might bid three clubs , forcing , to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is to bid six diamonds and dare the defense to beat it .

This week’s deals treat the defenders’ second-hand play. A defender in second seat often plays low, but the game would be no fun if “often” meant “always.”
Today’s East has thrown in a featherweight one-heart overcall, so West leads the nine against 3NT. Declarer plays low from dummy and takes the ace. At Trick Two he leads the eight of diamonds.
If South has a singleton diamond, the contract will surely fail whatever West does. If South’s diamonds are J-8, he is sure of five diamond tricks. So West should assume that South has 8-x.
RETURN
If West plays low, declarer will let the eight ride. East must take his jack, and declarer wins the black-suit return, leads a second diamond to the queen, and takes four diamonds, three spades, a club and a heart.
West must play “second hand high,” putting up his king on the first diamond. If South wins, he loses his link with dummy and can’t use the diamonds. If he ducks, West leads his last heart for East to run the hearts.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S A K Q 5 H A 6 4 D 8 7 C A 8 7 3. Your partner opens one diamond, you respond one spade and he rebids two diamonds. What do you say?
ANSWER: This is a matter of philosophy. Experts tend to blast into games but investigate for slams; a losing slam means the painful loss of a game bonus. Hence you might bid three clubs, forcing, to hear more from partner. The alternative is to bid six diamonds and dare the defense to beat it.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S 7 2
H Q 7 3
D A Q 10 9 2
C 5 4 2
WEST
S J 10 6 4
H 9 2
D K 5 3
C K J 9 6
EAST
S 9 8 3
H K J 10 8 5
D J 6 4
C Q 10
SOUTH
S A K Q 5
H A 6 4
D 8 7
C A 8 7 3
South West North East
1 C(!) Pass 1 D 1 H
1 S Pass 2 D Pass
2 NT Pass 3 NT All Pass
Opening lead — H 9
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Word Game: March 17, 2020

Word Game: March 17, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — PERFUSE ( PERFUSE : per-FYOOZ : To coat or permeate with liquid , color or @ @ @ @ @ find 25 or more words in PERFUSE ?
The list will be published tomorrow .
@ @ @ @ @ book , visit WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last @ @ @ @ @ be of four or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by @ @ @ @ @ , ” such as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed @ @ @ @ @ made by adding a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be @ @ @ @ @ if “ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are @ @ @ @ @ bake ” and “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang @ @ @ @ @ sexually explicit words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — PERFUSE (PERFUSE: per-FYOOZ: To coat or permeate with liquid, color or light.)
Average mark 18 words
Time limit 30 minutes
Can you find 25 or more words in PERFUSE? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — ASLEEP alee apse sale seal seep sepal slap sleep lapse
lase leap lease lees ease easel elapse else pale peal peel plea please
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--2020-03-17--Ask Amy: I’m convinced that women don’t understand how to drive

DEAR READERS : Every year , I step away from the Ask Amy column for two weeks in order to work on other writing projects .
My two memoirs : “ The Mighty Queens of Freeville : A Story of Surprising Second Chances , ” ( 2010 , Hachette ) , and “ Strangers Tend to Tell Me Things : A Memoir of Love , Loss , and Coming Home ” ( 2018 , Hachette ) are available from your favorite bookseller or library .
Enjoy this “ best of the battle of the sexes ” column from 2010 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Q and A next week .
DEAR AMY : My wife and I recently returned from a 1,700-mile driving vacation .
One constant was that female drivers follow too closely .
More than 20 times I pulled off the road to let a female driver pass me because I was afraid of a rear-end accident .
• Ask Amy : I don ’ t like the color of his teddy bears • Ask Amy : I invited her to our book club .
What a mistake .
• Ask Amy : I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relatives won ’ t pay their share • Ask Amy : We have 10 beds in the house , and he ’ s never in his own • Ask Amy : If you had to be married to have sex , there would be no abortions Not one time was it a man driving .
I am convinced that women do not understand the physics , dynamics or technologies related to automobile operations .
My wife drove for 50 miles , and I was afraid for my life .
I constantly asked her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ahead more room .
After 50 years of marriage , this is the only thing we argue about .
Why won ’ t she change ?
She is quite intelligent in most other matters .
DEAR WORRIED : There is no question that following too closely is extremely dangerous because it doesn ’ t leave a driver enough time to react , but in terms of your gender-based observations , national highway accident statistics show that male drivers are more than twice as likely to die in an auto crash than female drivers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ benefit from taking a safe driving course .
You can check out AARP.org for details .
DEAR AMY : I live within one of the most extremist liberal bastions in the country .
Men here are minimized , ordered to the rear and , even more often , told precisely what we should think and do .
I am an active 63-year-old guy and have worked hard to get where I am .
I wish to enjoy my life to the fullest by riding motorcycles up and down the coast and sea kayaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ often am joined by much younger “ Barbie doll ” types .
I have invited many women my age to join me , but I am hatefully told that I am an old fool to be seen with these much younger women .
Why do I have to live my life at the speed of smell just to satisfy these old , progressive , blue-haired biddies marching toward the end of their lives by becoming bingo captains at their church ?
Is acting young and refusing to slow down to please the liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LIVING : As long as you stereotype people the way you do , you ’ re going to get stereotyped , too .
You are way too invested in and angry about other people ’ s opinions about you .
In fact , due to the volume and pitch of your protest , I can only assume that on some level you fear you wouldn ’ t be able to keep up with the social and intellectual challenges of being with a woman in your age group .
But if your delight in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makes you an “ old fool , ” then man up and wear your title with pride .
DEAR AMY : I was dating a 45-year-old man .
He was married for 20 years , had been legally separated for four years , and divorced now for six months .
He seems to think it is normal for him and his ex-wife to sleep together naked when they visit each other , which they do almost every month .
He told me that my objections reflected my narrow American view , and he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Call me crazy , but that just did not seem to be normal behavior , regardless of cultural differences .
DEAR CRAZY : Your guy was accusing you of “ narrow American values.
” So let ’ s say he ’ s telling the truth .
Perhaps he really is merely resting his eyes while naked .
Whatever they are up to , I would say it ’ s highly irregular .
And — not to put too fine a point on it — Canadians are not known to be wild and crazy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go out on a limb and assert that this behavior would be objectionable to most romantic partners in most countries .
You could assume that he was attempting to “ gaslight ” you .
He wasn ’ t calling you crazy , he was trying to make you crazy .
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 READERS: Every year, I step away from the Ask Amy column for two weeks in order to work on other writing projects.
My two memoirs: “The Mighty Queens of Freeville: A Story of Surprising Second Chances,”(2010, Hachette), and “Strangers Tend to Tell Me Things: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Coming Home” (2018, Hachette) are available from your favorite bookseller or library.
Enjoy this “best of the battle of the sexes” column from 2010. I’ll be back with fresh Q and A next week.
DEAR AMY: My wife and I recently returned from a 1,700-mile driving vacation. One constant was that female drivers follow too closely. More than 20 times I pulled off the road to let a female driver pass me because I was afraid of a rear-end accident.
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Not one time was it a man driving.
I am convinced that women do not understand the physics, dynamics or technologies related to automobile operations. My wife drove for 50 miles, and I was afraid for my life. I constantly asked her to slow down or give the car ahead more room.
After 50 years of marriage, this is the only thing we argue about.
Why won’t she change? She is quite intelligent in most other matters.
Worried
DEAR WORRIED: There is no question that following too closely is extremely dangerous because it doesn’t leave a driver enough time to react, but in terms of your gender-based observations, national highway accident statistics show that male drivers are more than twice as likely to die in an auto crash than female drivers.
You and your wife could both benefit from taking a safe driving course. You can check out AARP.org for details.
March 2010
DEAR AMY: I live within one of the most extremist liberal bastions in the country. Men here are minimized, ordered to the rear and, even more often, told precisely what we should think and do.
I am an active 63-year-old guy and have worked hard to get where I am. I wish to enjoy my life to the fullest by riding motorcycles up and down the coast and sea kayaking in open water.
Fortunately, I often am joined by much younger “Barbie doll” types. I have invited many women my age to join me, but I am hatefully told that I am an old fool to be seen with these much younger women.
Why do I have to live my life at the speed of smell just to satisfy these old, progressive, blue-haired biddies marching toward the end of their lives by becoming bingo captains at their church?
Is acting young and refusing to slow down to please the liberal slug-masters of my community wrong?
Living My Life
DEAR LIVING: As long as you stereotype people the way you do, you’re going to get stereotyped, too.
You are way too invested in and angry about other people’s opinions about you. In fact, due to the volume and pitch of your protest, I can only assume that on some level you fear you wouldn’t be able to keep up with the social and intellectual challenges of being with a woman in your age group.
But if your delight in the thrill ride that is your existence makes you an “old fool,” then man up and wear your title with pride.
June 2010
DEAR AMY: I was dating a 45-year-old man. He was married for 20 years, had been legally separated for four years, and divorced now for six months.
He seems to think it is normal for him and his ex-wife to sleep together naked when they visit each other, which they do almost every month. He told me that my objections reflected my narrow American view, and he said their relationship was not sexual.
He is Canadian.
Call me crazy, but that just did not seem to be normal behavior, regardless of cultural differences.
Your thoughts?
Not Crazy?
DEAR CRAZY: Your guy was accusing you of “narrow American values.” So let’s say he’s telling the truth. Perhaps he really is merely resting his eyes while naked. Whatever they are up to, I would say it’s highly irregular.
And — not to put too fine a point on it — Canadians are not known to be wild and crazy libertines, so I’m going to go out on a limb and assert that this behavior would be objectionable to most romantic partners in most countries.
You could assume that he was attempting to “gaslight” you. He wasn’t calling you crazy, he was trying to make you crazy.
June 2010
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--2020-03-17--Letter: Effort to block Pleasanton Costco ignores voters’ will

Re : “ Another lawsuit filed to stop Costco from opening store in East Bay city ” ( Eastbaytimes.com , March 12 ) : It appears that the Pleasanton Citizens for Responsible Growth are at it again , for the second time , once again filing a lawsuit to stop progress on the proposed Costco development in Pleasanton .
We the people have voted down prior attempts to block this project put forth by this group , and now more time and money is to be wasted once again shutting these people down .
Somebody is spending a sizable amount @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , using some lofty environmental concerns as their reasoning .
• Letter : Our defense is only as strong as the weakest health care plan • Letter : 3 things that have helped us overcome national crises before • Letter : This is a rare firsthand account of our mental health system • Letter : We face being homebound like people in Italy Give it up .
We ’ ve voted and approved it .
Let ’ s move on .
If you don ’ t like it , this is America .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Effort to block Pleasanton
Costco ignores voters’ will
Re: “Another lawsuit filed to stop Costco from opening store in East Bay city” (Eastbaytimes.com, March 12):
It appears that the Pleasanton Citizens for Responsible Growth are at it again, for the second time, once again filing a lawsuit to stop progress on the proposed Costco development in Pleasanton.
We the people have voted down prior attempts to block this project put forth by this group, and now more time and money is to be wasted once again shutting these people down.
Somebody is spending a sizable amount of money trying to defeat this project, using some lofty environmental concerns as their reasoning. Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
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George Vien
Pleasanton
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Miss Manners: My in-laws have a tacky way of keeping track of gifts

DEAR MISS MANNERS : I would like to know if it is appropriate to record how much money each of your guests give you at your wedding , like a financial ledger .
Personally , I find this extremely tacky .
Too much focus is placed on the monetary value , as opposed to the personal value behind the giver ’ s sacrifice .
This turned into a major blowout with my in-laws when I said that it shouldn ’ t matter .
Fifty dollars might seem like 50 cents to some , and vice versa ; therefore , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Their answer was twofold : First , you need to record the amount each guest gave you so that you know how much to give when invited to their kids ’ weddings .
And second , that Aunt So-and-So “ deserves to have you know and remember ” that she gave so many thousands , even if Aunt Somebody Else gave considerably less .
• Miss Manners : I have this thing on my leg , and it bothers people • Miss Manners : I ’ m tired of their demeaning comments about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ My female co-workers dress like slobs .
What should I do about it ?
• Miss Manners : It ’ s not suitable for workplace , but who ’ s going to tell them ?
• Miss Manners : Am I ‘ psycho ’ for telling her to stop flirting with my husband ?
Please let me know if my heart is right in thinking that this puts terrible emphasis on the shallowest feature of gift-giving .
GENTLE READERS : Are you really wondering if it is vulgar of your relatives to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so that you can dole out thanks proportionately and plan to retaliate against those with moderate contributions ?
Miss Manners begs you to resist this mean and greedy way of treating people to whom you are supposedly close .
But no doubt , explaining this to your in-laws would be a waste of time .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : To treat my chronic pain , my doctor has prescribed massage therapy once a week .
The doctor ’ s office contains all the treatment rooms necessary , including a massage room .
On @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small sign reading , “ Tips accepted gratefully , but not required.
” Am I missing something here ?
When I was raised , back in the Pleistocene era , one did not tip medical personnel .
Has this changed ?
GENTLE READERS : What has changed is that solvent people now feel no shame about begging .
Miss Manners abhors the tipping system for many reasons , but acknowledges that it is necessary to supplement workers who do not otherwise earn the wages they deserve .
Doctors are not normally perceived as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : We want to visit some old friends , but we don ’ t want to inconvenience them at all .
They are quite elderly , and she , in particular , is very formal .
Although we have stayed at their home before , it was several years ago .
How do we invite ourselves to visit them ?
How far ahead of time should we call or write ?
GENTLE READER : Long enough to give them time to plan , but not so long as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is an inconvenient time .
But Miss Manners does not like that part about inviting yourselves .
What you should do is to say that you hope to travel to see them , and let them add the part about staying .
Or not .
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website , www.missmanners.com ; to her email , dearmissmanners @ gmail.com ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners , Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I would like to know if it is appropriate to record how much money each of your guests give you at your wedding, like a financial ledger.
Personally, I find this extremely tacky. Too much focus is placed on the monetary value, as opposed to the personal value behind the giver’s sacrifice.
This turned into a major blowout with my in-laws when I said that it shouldn’t matter. Fifty dollars might seem like 50 cents to some, and vice versa; therefore, the actual dollar figure should be inconsequential.
Their answer was twofold: First, you need to record the amount each guest gave you so that you know how much to give when invited to their kids’ weddings. And second, that Aunt So-and-So “deserves to have you know and remember” that she gave so many thousands, even if Aunt Somebody Else gave considerably less.
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GENTLE READERS: Are you really wondering if it is vulgar of your relatives to keep track of your guests’ donor levels so that you can dole out thanks proportionately and plan to retaliate against those with moderate contributions?
Miss Manners begs you to resist this mean and greedy way of treating people to whom you are supposedly close. But no doubt, explaining this to your in-laws would be a waste of time.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: To treat my chronic pain, my doctor has prescribed massage therapy once a week. The doctor’s office contains all the treatment rooms necessary, including a massage room.
On the bookshelf in this room is a small sign reading, “Tips accepted gratefully, but not required.”
Am I missing something here? When I was raised, back in the Pleistocene era, one did not tip medical personnel. Has this changed?
GENTLE READERS: What has changed is that solvent people now feel no shame about begging.
Miss Manners abhors the tipping system for many reasons, but acknowledges that it is necessary to supplement workers who do not otherwise earn the wages they deserve. Doctors are not normally perceived as suffering financially without extra largesse from their patients.
Self-respecting practitioners do not solicit handouts.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: We want to visit some old friends, but we don’t want to inconvenience them at all. They are quite elderly, and she, in particular, is very formal. Although we have stayed at their home before, it was several years ago.
How do we invite ourselves to visit them? How far ahead of time should we call or write?
Want Miss Manners delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
GENTLE READER: Long enough to give them time to plan, but not so long as to make it implausible if they say it is an inconvenient time.
But Miss Manners does not like that part about inviting yourselves. What you should do is to say that you hope to travel to see them, and let them add the part about staying. Or not.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Warriors players not showing coronavirus symptoms, team shuts down facility

Hours after announcing the Warriors ’ intentions to play last Thursday ’ s game against the Nets in an empty arena , general manager Bob Myers got a text from owner Joe Lacob : “ Do you see what ’ s going on with the Utah-Oklahoma City game ?
” As he watched Jazz and Thunder players get ushered off the court and the PA announcer tell the crowd the game was canceled , Myers knew the NBA was on the brink of a shutdown .
“ Just connecting the dots , my immediate thought was that they were going @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Myers said on a conference call on Tuesday .
“ It just created an untenable situation for our league.
” Since then , seven NBA players have tested positive for the coronavirus while the league announced an indefinite hiatus to counter the pandemic .
As of Tuesday , no Warriors players have shown symptoms , according to Myers .
Meanwhile , the team has shut down operations at Chase Center as to comply with San Francisco ’ s shelter-in-place ordinance .
For the next three weeks , the front office , coaches @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contact and navigate the indefinite suspension of the NBA season .
Myers said the Warriors will not administer tests unless players show symptoms of having contracted COVID-19 .
This comes after news that four Brooklyn Nets players — including former Golden State forward Kevin Durant — tested positive for the virus .
The Nets left San Francisco after NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced the league ’ s suspension when Jazz center Rudy Gobert became the first player to test positive last Wednesday .
On Tuesday , several players woke up with symptoms .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ our guys went and hung out with any of their players the night before our game , ” head coach Steve Kerr said on a conference call Tuesday .
“ I don ’ t know if that ’ s the case or not.
” While the Nets had their players tested by a private company upon returning to New York , the Warriors have not had their players tested — and won ’ t as long as they are asymptomatic .
“ In California , my understanding is that these tests are not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t have symptoms shouldn ’ t be doing that , ” Myers said .
“ We ’ re not treating ourselves any differently than anyone else — I think that ’ s the right thing to do.
” In the days that followed the NBA ’ s suspension , several sporting events were canceled or postponed and local and federal governments encouraged stricter rules on social distancing .
The death toll in the United State from the coronavirus reached 100 Tuesday .
“ The NBA coming to a halt helped a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kerr said .
“ It was one of the tipping points where society at large knew how serious this was.
” Meanwhile , with residents of San Francisco and several other Bay-Area counties being ordered to remain indoors and cease any non-essential travel until April 7 , Warriors players and staffers can not work at the Chase Center facility in the city ’ s Mission Bay .
Many players don ’ t have the means to work out at home , creating a challenge to maintain their conditioning .
For Klay Thompson , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ left knee in last June ’ s NBA Finals , it means he will have to continue his rehab on his own .
Myers said he may periodically work with a trainer over the next few weeks .
During the indefinite suspension of the season , the NBA recently informed players they may travel out of market to be with family .
According to Myers , three Warriors players have left the Bay Area , though he would not disclose names .
“ Some of these guys were living in a 400-foot apartment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their families , which is understandable , ” Myers said .
“ Some can ’ t afford to stay in the place they were indefinitely .
Everyone ’ s in a different situation as far as family , as far as resources.
” Kerr recently drove with his family to self-quarantine in their San Diego home : “ We ’ ve got a little more space down here , ” he said .
Though the Warriors ’ front office , coaches and players remain in constant contact , Kerr has been using much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic and watching film of prospects ahead of this year ’ s NBA Draft — in which the Warriors will have a top-five selection .
“ It ’ s something I haven ’ t been able to do much of over the years , ” Kerr said .
“ More than anything , it ’ s fulfilling my fix .
I love what I do and I love the game .
It ’ s hard , honestly , not turning a game on at night .
All of us on this call are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t be in this capacity .
“ I ’ m sure everybody has felt how strange it is when you have a time like this , where things are scary or different .
This is when you turn to sports to get away .
Obviously that ’ s not an option.
” • Warriors ’ Steph Curry and fellow NBA All-Stars urge fans to help ‘ flatten ’ coronavirus curve • Mailbag : What are the Warriors ’ offseason priorities ?
• What will economic hit be for Warriors , Sharks , other @ @ @ @ @

Hours after announcing the Warriors’ intentions to play last Thursday’s game against the Nets in an empty arena, general manager Bob Myers got a text from owner Joe Lacob: “Do you see what’s going on with the Utah-Oklahoma City game?”
As he watched Jazz and Thunder players get ushered off the court and the PA announcer tell the crowd the game was canceled, Myers knew the NBA was on the brink of a shutdown.
“Just connecting the dots, my immediate thought was that they were going to have to suspend the season,” Myers said on a conference call on Tuesday. “It just created an untenable situation for our league.”
Since then, seven NBA players have tested positive for the coronavirus while the league announced an indefinite hiatus to counter the pandemic. As of Tuesday, no Warriors players have shown symptoms, according to Myers.
Meanwhile, the team has shut down operations at Chase Center as to comply with San Francisco’s shelter-in-place ordinance. For the next three weeks, the front office, coaches and players will try to remain in contact and navigate the indefinite suspension of the NBA season.
Myers said the Warriors will not administer tests unless players show symptoms of having contracted COVID-19. This comes after news that four Brooklyn Nets players — including former Golden State forward Kevin Durant — tested positive for the virus.
The Nets left San Francisco after NBA commissioner Adam Silver announced the league’s suspension when Jazz center Rudy Gobert became the first player to test positive last Wednesday. On Tuesday, several players woke up with symptoms.
“I’m hoping none of our guys went and hung out with any of their players the night before our game,” head coach Steve Kerr said on a conference call Tuesday. “I don’t know if that’s the case or not.”
While the Nets had their players tested by a private company upon returning to New York, the Warriors have not had their players tested — and won’t as long as they are asymptomatic.
“In California, my understanding is that these tests are not readily available, and people who don’t have symptoms shouldn’t be doing that,” Myers said. “We’re not treating ourselves any differently than anyone else — I think that’s the right thing to do.”
In the days that followed the NBA’s suspension, several sporting events were canceled or postponed and local and federal governments encouraged stricter rules on social distancing. The death toll in the United State from the coronavirus reached 100 Tuesday.
“The NBA coming to a halt helped a lot of people come to grips,” Kerr said. “It was one of the tipping points where society at large knew how serious this was.”
Meanwhile, with residents of San Francisco and several other Bay-Area counties being ordered to remain indoors and cease any non-essential travel until April 7, Warriors players and staffers cannot work at the Chase Center facility in the city’s Mission Bay neighborhood.
Many players don’t have the means to work out at home, creating a challenge to maintain their conditioning. For Klay Thompson, who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee in last June’s NBA Finals, it means he will have to continue his rehab on his own. Myers said he may periodically work with a trainer over the next few weeks.
During the indefinite suspension of the season, the NBA recently informed players they may travel out of market to be with family. According to Myers, three Warriors players have left the Bay Area, though he would not disclose names.
“Some of these guys were living in a 400-foot apartment, so they want to be with their families, which is understandable,” Myers said. “Some can’t afford to stay in the place they were indefinitely. Everyone’s in a different situation as far as family, as far as resources.”
Kerr recently drove with his family to self-quarantine in their San Diego home: “We’ve got a little more space down here,” he said.
Though the Warriors’ front office, coaches and players remain in constant contact, Kerr has been using much of his time reading about the coronavirus pandemic and watching film of prospects ahead of this year’s NBA Draft — in which the Warriors will have a top-five selection.
“It’s something I haven’t been able to do much of over the years,” Kerr said. “More than anything, it’s fulfilling my fix. I love what I do and I love the game. It’s hard, honestly, not turning a game on at night. All of us on this call are big sports fans or we wouldn’t be in this capacity.
“I’m sure everybody has felt how strange it is when you have a time like this, where things are scary or different. This is when you turn to sports to get away. Obviously that’s not an option.”


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Stream these: 6 great indie movies you probably haven’t heard of

If you ’ re home-sheltering due to coronavirus fears , or just looking for some movies with fresh ideas , here are six terrific indie movies available for streaming ( or will be on March 20 ) .
Since theaters are closed and newly released entertainment options are scant , the makers of “ Phoenix , Oregon ” came up with a novel notion .
They joined with an indie film distributor to stream the film and benefit the small theaters that were slated to screen it originally .
It ’ s a simple process .
To watch “ Phoenix @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a ticket via a link and then select the indie theater that will later get a cut from that purchase .
More creative collaborations such as that are needed in the days ahead .
The big-hearted film centers on a wannabe graphic novelist Bobby ( James LeGros ) , who shuffles through life tending bar at a chintzy Italian restaurant when he ’ s not hanging in his messy trailer in small-town Oregon .
To the rescue comes Bobby ’ s buddy Carlos ( Jesse Borrgeo ) who asks him to enter in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
With a slick investor ( Reynaldo Gallegos ) and a sassy wine seller ( Lisa Edelstein ) mixing things up , plans hit lows and highs .
Writer/director Gary Lundgren ’ s amiable charmer peps up downhearted spirits , and features another ace performance from indie pin-up guy LeGros .
( Rated R for language ; streams starting March 20 , www.phoenixoregonmovie.com . )
“ Blow the Man Down ” : Two very different sisters ( Sophie Lowe and Morgan Saylor ) in a Maine fishing village tangle with busybodys , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ directors/writers Danielle Krudy and Bridget Savage Cole ’ s knockout feature debut .
The two leads are memorable , but this delectable neo-noir belongs to Margo Martindale and June Squibb , the harborers of shocking community intel .
It ’ s a must-see .
( Rated R for language , some violence , sexual content and brief drug use ; available March 20 on Amazon Prime . )
“ The Banker ” : Samuel L. Jackson and Anthony Mackie make for a delicious pairing in George Nolfi ’ s entertaining , informative dramatization @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bernard Garrett ( Mackie ) and Joe Morris ( Jackson ) devised a crafty way in the racist ‘ 50s to do biz by hiring a cute white guy ( Nicholas Hoult ) to be their face in a white-washed real estate market .
The ruse , though , comes with a downfall .
From the period detail to the acting , this is a well-made and handsome effort .
( Rated PG-13 , for some strong language including a sexual reference and racial epithets , and smoking throughout ; available March 20 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Platform ” : Spanish filmmaker Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia ups the gore and grossness in this claustrophobic , imaginative horror show reminiscent to that Oscar-winning parable about the haves and have-nots in “ Parasite.
” His grim dystopian vision finds various people waking up in spartan , stark rooms that are part of a concrete cylinder-like building .
Each day a lavish banquet is prepared and sent via a platform from the top room to the floor way below .
It literally becomes a dog-eat-dog battle as each try to survive and eat the scraps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the best horror films of the year .
( Not rated ; available to stream March 20 on Netflix . )
“ Togo ” : Are the kids driving you nutso being stuck inside ?
Check out this Disney+ original based on the true story about the heroic sled-dog Togo and his musher Leonhard Seppala ( Willem Dafoe ) .
It ’ s the perfect find .
Ericson Core ’ s gripping , suspenseful and emotional story is set in 1925 Alaska and finds Togo leading the charge to get diphtheria @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a lovely and exciting film , one of my favorite cinematic dog stories ever .
And it ’ s not an animatronic dog !
( Rated PG , for some peril , thematic elements and mild language ; available now on Disney+ . )
“ Big Time Adolescence ” : After its well-received debut at Sundance , this hilarious “ Booksmart ” -like take on high school debuts on Hulu .
It works for three reasons : a well-tuned screenplay from writer/director Jason Orley , a likeable performance from Griffin Gluck and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s ” Pete Davidson .
The teenaged Mo ( Gluck ) pals around with ne ’ er-do-well Zeke , who always has big plans for others to do his dirty work .
It ’ s a joy to watch , but does come with sharp edges .
Davidson has a great acting career ahead of him .
( Rated R for drug content , alcohol use , pervasive language , and sexual references — all involving teens ; streams March 20 on Hulu . )

If you’re home-sheltering due to coronavirus fears, or just looking for some movies with fresh ideas, here are six terrific indie movies available for streaming (or will be on March 20).
‘Phoenix, Oregon
Since theaters are closed and newly released entertainment options are scant, the makers of “Phoenix, Oregon” came up with a novel notion. They joined with an indie film distributor to stream the film and benefit the small theaters that were slated to screen it originally. It’s a simple process. To watch “Phoenix, Oregon” online, just purchase a ticket via a link and then select the indie theater that will later get a cut from that purchase. More creative collaborations such as that are needed in the days ahead.
The big-hearted film centers on a wannabe graphic novelist Bobby (James LeGros), who shuffles through life tending bar at a chintzy Italian restaurant when he’s not hanging in his messy trailer in small-town Oregon. To the rescue comes Bobby’s buddy Carlos (Jesse Borrgeo) who asks him to enter in a business partnership fora pizza parlor/bowling alley. With a slick investor (Reynaldo Gallegos) and a sassy wine seller (Lisa Edelstein) mixing things up, plans hit lows and highs. Writer/director Gary Lundgren’s amiable charmer peps up downhearted spirits, and features another ace performance from indie pin-up guy LeGros. (Rated R for language; streams starting March 20, www.phoenixoregonmovie.com.)
‘Blow the Man Down’
Two very different sisters (Sophie Lowe and Morgan Saylor) in a Maine fishing village tangle with busybodys, a dead body and shocking town secrets in directors/writers Danielle Krudy and Bridget Savage Cole’s knockout feature debut. The two leads are memorable, but this delectable neo-noir belongs to Margo Martindale and June Squibb, the harborers of shocking community intel. It’s a must-see. (Rated R for language, some violence, sexual content and brief drug use; available March 20 on Amazon Prime.)
‘The Banker’
Samuel L. Jackson and Anthony Mackie make for a delicious pairing in George Nolfi’s entertaining, informative dramatization about a how real-life real estate businessmen Bernard Garrett (Mackie) and Joe Morris (Jackson) devised a crafty way in the racist ‘50s to do biz by hiring a cute white guy (Nicholas Hoult) to be their face in a white-washed real estate market. The ruse, though, comes with a downfall. From the period detail to the acting, this is a well-made and handsome effort. (Rated PG-13, for some strong language including a sexual reference and racial epithets, and smoking throughout; available March 20 on Apple TV+.)
‘The Platform’
Spanish filmmaker Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia ups the gore and grossness in this claustrophobic, imaginative horror show reminiscent to that Oscar-winning parable about the haves and have-nots in “Parasite.” His grim dystopian vision finds various people waking up in spartan, stark rooms that are part of a concrete cylinder-like building. Each day a lavish banquet is prepared and sent via a platform from the top room to the floor way below. It literally becomes a dog-eat-dog battle as each try to survive and eat the scraps. It’s nasty, but one of the best horror films of the year. (Not rated; available to stream March 20 on Netflix.)
‘Togo’
Are the kids driving you nutso being stuck inside? Check out this Disney+ original based on the true story about the heroic sled-dog Togo and his musher Leonhard Seppala (Willem Dafoe). It’s the perfect find. Ericson Core’s gripping, suspenseful and emotional story is set in 1925 Alaska and finds Togo leading the charge to get diphtheria medication to children. It’s a lovely and exciting film, one of my favorite cinematic dog stories ever. And it’s not an animatronic dog! (Rated PG, for some peril, thematic elements and mild language; available now on Disney+.)
‘Big Time Adolescence’
After its well-received debut at Sundance, this hilarious “Booksmart”-like take on high school debuts on Hulu. It works for three reasons: a well-tuned screenplay from writer/director Jason Orley, a likeable performance from Griffin Gluck and a golden performance from “Saturday Night Live’s” Pete Davidson. The teenaged Mo (Gluck) pals around with ne’er-do-well Zeke, who always has big plans for others to do his dirty work. It’s a joy to watch, but does come with sharp edges. Davidson has a great acting career ahead of him. (Rated R for drug content, alcohol use, pervasive language, and sexual references — all involving teens; streams March 20 on Hulu.)


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: California issues warning about disinfecting wipes

As Americans are stockpiling disinfecting wipes and paper towels to clean their homes more to reduce the risk of coronavirus , California ’ s state water regulators on Tuesday urged them to keep one thing in mind : Don ’ t flush them down the toilet .
Wipes and paper towels do not break down like toilet paper does in water .
They are stronger , and some wipes include plastics and materials like nylon .
And that means bad news for sewer systems .
“ Flushing wipes , paper towels and similar products down toilets will clog sewers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facilities , creating an additional public health risk in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic , ” the California ’ s State Water Resources Control Board said .
“ Even wipes labeled “ flushable ” will clog pipes and interfere with sewage collection and treatment throughout the state.
” They should be thrown away in the trash after use , the agency said .
The wipes , which kill most bacteria and viruses , are in huge demand due to the spread of COVID-19 .
And that has wastewater experts concerned .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t at home all day long , these wipes cause problems , ” said Jessica Gaugher , legislative director for the California Association of Sanitary Agencies .
“ But now that we have people at home all day long , we are preparing ourselves for what might be coming.
” The wipes can wrap around tree roots and broken joints in sewer laterals between people ’ s homes and the street , causing toilets to back up .
They can tangle in motors at wastewater plants , and cause sewage spills .
So @ @ @ @ @ @ @ around the state are handling the load , but some plants are seeing an increase in debris like wipes as Californians work from home , and there have been several reports of sewage spills from wipes-related clogs .
Even before the coronavirus crisis , wipes already were costing California cities and other government agencies at least $ 50 million a year to untangle pumps , clear blocked sewer mains and increase maintenance to remove them at wastewater plants , she added , and the risk is high now that the problem could worsen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Legislature , AB 1672 by Richard Bloom , D-Santa Monica , would require the makers of wipes to put a label on packages saying they should not be flushed .
New York City spends $ 20 million a year breaking up large clogs in sewer lines that are often caused by wipes .
Workers in London have removed enormous blockages of grease , wipes and other debris nicknamed “ fatbergs ” — some of which are as big as city buses — from that city ’ s underground Victorian-era sewage pipes .
American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ turkeys.
” Bay Area cities have struggled as well .
Officials who oversee wastewater treatment plants say the last thing needed now is to have sewer systems needlessly face problems .
“ As people are sheltering in place , if we don ’ t get them to understand that we don ’ t want them to flush those materials , we could see an increase ” in sewer system problems , said Kerrie Romanow , director of environmental services for the city of San Jose .
“ We want people to keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we want them to put paper products into the trash can.
” Some sewage plants filter huge amounts of waste every day .
The San Jose-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility in Alviso treats an average of 110 million gallons of sewage and wastewater from toilets , showers , drains and sinks a day — enough to fill 166 Olympic swimming pools every 24 hours .
The plant serves 1.5 million people across Silicon Valley before treating the water to advanced levels and disposing it into San Francisco Bay .
Some is recycled for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Prevention has recommended that Americans disinfect counter tops , doorknobs , tables , TV remote controls , light switches and other hard surfaces regularly to reduce the spread of coronavirus .
“ Even during a time of crisis like this , we should be sure we ’ re not doing things that might inadvertently cause sewer line blockages and sewage spills that could harm public health or San Francisco Bay , ” said Sejal Choksi-Chugh , executive director of San Francisco Baykeeper , an environmental group based in Oakland .

As Americans stockpile disinfecting wipes and paper towels to clean their homes more often to reduce the risk of coronavirus, California’s state water regulators on Tuesday urged them to keep one thing in mind: Don’t flush them down the toilet.
Wipes and paper towels do not break down like toilet paper does in water. They are stronger, and many wipes include plastics and materials like nylon. That means bad news for sewer systems, some of which already are experiencing problems during the coronavirus crisis.
“Flushing wipes, paper towels and similar products down toilets will clog sewers and cause backups and overflows at wastewater treatment facilities, creating an additional public health risk in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic,” the California’s State Water Resources Control Board said. “Even wipes labeled “flushable” will clog pipes and interfere with sewage collection and treatment throughout the state.”
They should be thrown away in the trash after use, the agency said.
The wipes, which kill most bacteria and viruses, are in huge demand due to the spread of COVID-19.
“In normal times when folks aren’t at home all day long, these wipes cause problems,” said Jessica Gaugher, legislative director for the California Association of Sanitary Agencies. “But now that we have people at home all day long, we are preparing ourselves for what might be coming.”
The wipes can wrap around tree roots and broken joints in sewer laterals between people’s homes and the street, causing toilets to back up. They can tangle in motors at wastewater plants and pump stations, and cause sewage spills.
In recent days, two Marin County wastewater agencies had their systems clog and spill due to an increase in wipes and other debris. The agencies, Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District in San Rafael and Marin Sanitary District #5 in Tiburon, normally have very few spills, but an increase in wipes and other debris were to blame.
The Las Gallinas system spilled 550 gallons of sewage onto the street in a business district of North San Rafael on Tuesday when wipes and paper towels caused a clog in the sewer main under the road. Crews cleared the blockage in 11 minutes, but the sewage flowed through a manhole cover, across the road, into a nearby storm drain, where it was diluted with rain water, and flowed toward the San Francisco Bay.
“This is considered a small spill but I sincerely hope it is not a harbinger of things to come,” said Mike Prinz, general manager of the Las Gallinas Sanitary District. “I’m sure it’s already happening in a lot of locations all over the country.”
Apart from increased cleaning, one thing that may be happening, experts say, is that people who have run out of toilet paper are using paper towels and other materials in the bathroom instead. Prinz said if that is case, they should put the used paper in a plastic bag, seal it, and dispose of it in the trash rather than flushing it.
“The pipe you block may be your own,” he said. “You can block your own lateral to the street. Then your toilet won’t flush. Your shower won’t drain.”
Other Bay Area agencies are seeing the trend.
“Our staff is seeing higher accumulations of wipes, shop towels, that kind of thing,” said Steve Moore, general manager of the Ross Valley Sanitation District, which serves 47,000 people in Larkspur. “We’re seeing a notable uptick. We have to get the pitch forks out more often to clean the screens at the pump stations. We have to do that to keep the pumps working.”
Even before the coronavirus crisis, wipes already were costing California cities and other government agencies at least $50 million a year to untangle pumps, clear blocked sewer mains and increase maintenance to remove them at wastewater plants, she added, and the risk is high now that the problem could worsen.
A bill pending in the California Legislature, AB 1672 by Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica, would require the makers of wipes to put a label on packages saying they should not be flushed.
New York City spends $20 million a year breaking up large clogs in sewer lines that are often caused by wipes. Workers in London have removed enormous blockages of grease, wipes and other debris nicknamed “fatbergs” — some of which are as big as city buses — from that city’s underground Victorian-era sewage pipes. American sewer plant workers also call such clogs “turkeys.”
Bay Area cities have struggled as well. Officials who oversee wastewater treatment plants say the last thing needed now is to have sewer systems face such problems.
“As people are sheltering in place, if we don’t get them to understand that we don’t want them to flush those materials, we could see an increase” in sewer system problems, said Kerrie Romanow, director of environmental services for the city of San Jose. “We want people to keep surfaces clean and to disinfect, but we want them to put paper products into the trash can.”
Some sewage plants filter huge amounts of waste every day. The San Jose-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility in Alviso treats an average of 110 million gallons of sewage and wastewater from toilets, showers, drains and sinks a day — enough to fill 166 Olympic swimming pools every 24 hours. The plant serves 1.5 million people across Silicon Valley before treating the water to advanced levels and disposing it into San Francisco Bay. Some is recycled for irrigation.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that Americans disinfect counter tops, doorknobs, tables, TV remote controls, light switches and other hard surfaces regularly to reduce the spread of coronavirus.
“Even during a time of crisis like this, we should be sure we’re not doing things that might inadvertently cause sewer line blockages and sewage spills that could harm public health or San Francisco Bay,” said Sejal Choksi-Chugh, executive director of San Francisco Baykeeper, an environmental group based in Oakland.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--H-1B: Premium processing suspended for upcoming visa application season

Applicants for the H-1B visa hoping to accelerate their submissions by paying extra for “ premium processing ” won ’ t be able to obtain that service when this year ’ s application period opens April 1 , federal authorities announced .
U.S .
Citizenship and Immigration has temporarily suspended premium at the start of each H-1B application “ season ” since 2017 .
The agency said the move , for applicants subject to the annual cap on new visas , would “ help us to reduce overall H-1B processing times.
” The H-1B , obtained by employers for foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ specialized skills .
The visa has become a flashpoint in America ’ s immigration debate , with the administration of President Donald Trump dramatically increasing denials , mostly among IT staffing and outsourcing firms .
Silicon Valley technology giants rely heavily on the H-1B and push for an expansion to the annual 85,000 cap , arguing that the visa allows them to secure the world ’ s top talent .
Critics point to reported abuses by outsourcers and say those companies , along with many tech firms , use the visa to supplant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ facilitate outsourcing of U.S. jobs .
The premium service , which costs $ 1,440 , will resume in two phases , Citizenship and Immigration said in a bulletin Monday .
The first phase will include applicants requesting a change from an F-1 student visa , including those with advanced degrees .
The second phase will include all other applications subject to the visa cap .
Institutes of higher education , government organizations and non-profits are exempt from the cap .
Premium processing will resume for the F-1 change-of-status applications no later than May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the service will not become available until at least June 29 , the agency said .

Applicants for the H-1B visa hoping to accelerate their submissions by paying extra for “premium processing” won’t be able to obtain that service when this year’s application period opens April 1, federal authorities announced.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration has temporarily suspended premium at the start of each H-1B application “season” since 2017.
The agency said the move, for applicants subject to the annual cap on new visas, would “help us to reduce overall H-1B processing times.”
The H-1B, obtained by employers for foreign workers, is intended for jobs requiring specialized skills. The visa has become a flashpoint in America’s immigration debate, with the administration of President Donald Trump dramatically increasing denial rates among IT staffing and outsourcing firms. Silicon Valley technology giants rely heavily on the H-1B and push for an expansion to the annual 85,000 cap, arguing that the visa allows them to secure the world’s top talent. Critics point to reported abuses by outsourcers and say those companies, along with many tech firms, use the visa to supplant American workers, drive down wages and facilitate outsourcing of U.S. jobs.
Related Articles Technology | Coronavirus travel ban throws American tourists, H-1B workers into chaos
Coronavirus travel ban throws American tourists, H-1B workers into chaos Technology | H-1B: IT staffing firms notch big win against Trump administration
H-1B: IT staffing firms notch big win against Trump administration Technology | H-1B visa: New registration system will start in March The premium service, which costs $1,440 and buys a 15-calendar-day processing period, will resume in two phases, Citizenship and Immigration said in a bulletin Monday. The first phase will include applicants requesting a change from an F-1 student visa, including those with advanced degrees. The second phase will include all other applications subject to the visa cap. Institutes of higher education, government organizations and non-profits are exempt from the cap.
Premium processing will resume for the F-1 change-of-status applications no later than May 27. For all other cap-subject applications, the service will not become available until at least June 29, the agency said.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Is divorce mediation advisable? Ask the lawyer

Q : My spouse and I are going our separate ways .
Our relationship is strained , but we have been told by friends we should try divorce mediation .
Given our current negativity toward each other , does mediation make any sense ?
A : Many lawsuits arise because of hostility .
Divorce is certainly prone to emotions , including bitterness .
Divorce mediation is a process that focuses on trying to help the parties reach agreement on division of assets , child custody and support issues .
It may resolve all of at least some of these issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ money .
As such , in my view the answer to your question is that you should at least give serious consideration to mediation .
You can still have a lawyer on your side ( as can your spouse ) , with a mediator “ in the middle ” seeking to work out disputes .
Q : Can you describe how divorce mediation works ?
Can I have a lawyer ?
A : The parties agree to a mediator , and typically sign an agreement that sets forth the terms and conditions of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his or her own lawyer to consult with .
Neither side is required to agree to what the mediator proposes , or recommends .
It is voluntary and provides an opportunity for the parties to reach an accord on aspects of the divorce that will lead to a final divorce decree .
Many of the Southern California courts have a family law facilitator .
There is no charge to you , and the facilitator can help with support and , in some instances , custody issues .
For Los Angeles County call 213-351-7561 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Justice Center , 341 The City Drive , Room 101 , Orange ; in San Bernardino County , call 909-269-8826 .
Ron Sokol is a Manhattan Beach attorney with more than 35 years of experience .
His column , which appears in print on Wednesdays , presents a summary of the law and should not be construed as legal advice .
Email questions and comments to him at RonSEsq @ aol.com or write to him at Ask the Lawyer , Daily Breeze , 400 Continental Blvd , Suite 600 , El Segundo , @ @ @ @

Q: My spouse and I are going our separate ways. Our relationship is strained, but we have been told by friends we should try divorce mediation. Given our current negativity toward each other, does mediation make any sense?
-C.S., Los Angeles
A: Many lawsuits arise because of hostility. Divorce is certainly prone to emotions, including bitterness. Divorce mediation is a process that focuses on trying to help the parties reach agreement on division of assets, child custody and support issues. It may resolve all of at least some of these issues, and may well save time and money. As such, in my view the answer to your question is that you should at least give serious consideration to mediation. You can still have a lawyer on your side (as can your spouse), with a mediator “in the middle” seeking to work out disputes.
Q: Can you describe how divorce mediation works? Can I have a lawyer?
-G.N., Seal Beach
A: The parties agree to a mediator, and typically sign an agreement that sets forth the terms and conditions of mediating. Each party can still have his or her own lawyer to consult with. Neither side is required to agree to what the mediator proposes, or recommends. It is voluntary and provides an opportunity for the parties to reach an accord on aspects of the divorce that will lead to a final divorce decree.
Family law facilitator
Many of the Southern California courts have a family law facilitator. There is no charge to you, and the facilitator can help with support and, in some instances, custody issues. For Los Angeles County call 213-351-7561; in Orange County visit the Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive, Room 101, Orange; in San Bernardino County, call 909-269-8826.
Ron Sokol is a Manhattan Beach attorney with more than 35 years of experience. His column, which appears in print on Wednesdays, presents a summary of the law and should not be construed as legal advice. Email questions and comments to him at RonSEsq@aol.com or write to him at Ask the Lawyer, Daily Breeze, 400 Continental Blvd, Suite 600, El Segundo, CA, 90245.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: The Bay Area is likely headed for a recession. How bad could it get?

The Bay Area , long one of the world ’ s mightiest growth engines , could be headed for a coronavirus-induced recession , as shelter in place orders shutter stores and bars , construction grinds to a halt , and the tourism and hospitality industry all but disappears .
This week , UCLA Anderson Forecast issued its first revision to its quarterly report in its 68-year history .
Despite a strong start to the year , it ’ s now predicting two quarters of negative economic growth nationally — enough to be considered a recession — and for the economy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recovered .
California , according to the forecast , will be harder hit , with a projected 280,000 jobs lost in the state .
And that ’ s not even accounting for the shelter in place order imposed on Monday throughout the Bay Area .
“ We ’ re in uncharted territory as to the economic effects of the measures being taken to control the spread of this pathogen in the Bay Area , ” said Jerry Nickelsburg , director of UCLA Anderson Forecast .
The forecast predicts unemployment in the state will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the year and average 6.6 percent during 2021 .
The January statewide unemployment rate was 3.9 percent , according to the California Employment Development Department .
Personal income , adjusted for inflation , is expected to stay basically flat until 2022 .
Not everyone is convinced about the worst-case outcome for the region , though .
“ This is business delayed , not business canceled , ” said Chris Thornberg , founding partner of Beacon Economics .
“ At least not yet.
” UCLA Anderson projects California will be hard hit because it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to be most affected by coronavirus , Nickelsburg said .
That includes hospitality , tourism , leisure — bars , restaurants and entertainment — and warehousing and transportation .
There are about 165,000 warehouse and transportation workers in the San Jose and San Francisco metro areas alone , which covers the five-county Bay Area plus San Benito County , according to 2018 data from the U.S. Census Bureau .
Another 313,000 work in leisure industries including arts , accommodation and food services .
About a third of the job losses projected in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will come from those industries .
Chris Hoene , executive director of the California Budget & Policy Center , is particularly worried about those workers because they tend to be lower paid .
Other vulnerable populations she ’ s watching for are those who are at risk of being homeless — for example people couch-surfing with friends — and undocumented residents who can ’ t access all the same public benefits .
“ My fear is that those folks will then become economically unstable for a much longer period of time , they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly , ” Hoene said .
“ We could see an increase in the state ’ s already high levels of homelessness .
We could see an increase in the poverty level.
” If those workers aren ’ t able to recover quickly it could make it harder for the whole region to recover , she said .
Ted Egan , chief economist at the San Francisco Office of the Controller , said some Bay Area businesses are also being affected by the potentially long-lasting damage the outbreak has done to the global @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there ’ s some types of business — you think about takeout and delivery services — that people will turn to when they can ’ t turn to their retails in person , ” Egan said , which could include tech companies that do deliveries like DoorDash or online shopping like Amazon .
But in a recession where the financial system is in trouble and consumers are suffering , not even those businesses will be safe .
The Bay Area ’ s construction industry also is affected , with all but a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being postponed , said Daniel Romero , assistant business manager for electrical workers union in Santa Clara County .
“ One guy called me , he was almost in tears yesterday , ” Romero said .
“ He barely got back to work and the job was shut down.
” It ’ s hard to know if all building has stopped — housing construction is considered an essential service that will be allowed to continue — but Romero said he ’ s directing his members to file for unemployment if their job is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s disability benefits if they test positive for COVID-19 .
In the meantime , the union has closed its apprenticeship program and is down to a skeleton crew .
“ The unknowing I think is the hardest part , ” he said .
“ We ’ re complying , so we ’ re just doing the best we can.
” For those hoping that at least a recession might bring down the region ’ s sky-high home prices , research suggests that might not happen , according to a Zillow analysis of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Hong Kong ’ s home prices stayed basically the same but the number of home sales declined by as much as three quarters .
Although most forecasters are predicting short-term economic declines , not everyone thinks the region is headed toward a recession .
“ Everybody take a deep breath , ” said Thornberg , of Beacon Economics.
” Shutting everything down right now is a way of preventing a problem , not causing a problem.
” • Stream these : 6 great indie movies you probably haven ’ t heard of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you ’ re stuck in the house • Coronavirus travel : SFO to resume flights from China this week He compared the outbreak to natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes , which cause temporary disruptions but aren ’ t a sufficiently long-term shock to tip the economy into a recession .
He said it ’ s possible we ’ ll have one quarter of negative economic growth , but that ’ s it .
But all forecasters and experts agree on one thing : The economic damage done by the pandemic will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and how quickly it is brought under control .
In announcing its revision predicting a recession , UCLA Anderson Forecast included an important caveat .
“ If the pandemic is much worse than assumed , this forecast will be too optimistic , ” it said .

The Bay Area, long one of the world’s mightiest growth engines, could be headed for a coronavirus-induced recession, as shelter in place orders shutter stores and bars, construction grinds to a halt, and the tourism and hospitality industry all but disappears.
This week, UCLA Anderson Forecast issued its first revision to its quarterly report in its 68-year history. Despite a strong start to the year, it’s now predicting two quarters of negative economic growth nationally — enough to be considered a recession — and for the economy to take until 2022 to be fully recovered. California, according to the forecast, will be harder hit, with a projected 280,000 jobs lost in the state. And that’s not even accounting for the shelter in place order imposed on Monday throughout the Bay Area.
“We’re in uncharted territory as to the economic effects of the measures being taken to control the spread of this pathogen in the Bay Area,” said Jerry Nickelsburg, director of UCLA Anderson Forecast.
The forecast predicts unemployment in the state will reach 6.2 percent by the end of the year and average 6.6 percent during 2021. The January statewide unemployment rate was 3.9 percent, according to the California Employment Development Department. Personal income, adjusted for inflation, is expected to stay basically flat until 2022.
Not everyone is convinced about the worst-case outcome for the region, though.
“This is business delayed, not business canceled,” said Chris Thornberg, founding partner of Beacon Economics. “At least not yet.”
UCLA Anderson projects California will be hard hit because it has a large presence of the industries likely to be most affected by coronavirus, Nickelsburg said. That includes hospitality, tourism, leisure — bars, restaurants and entertainment — and warehousing and transportation.
There are about 165,000 warehouse and transportation workers in the San Jose and San Francisco metro areas alone, which covers the five-county Bay Area plus San Benito County, according to 2018 data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Another 313,000 work in leisure industries including arts, accommodation and food services. About a third of the job losses projected in the state by the UCLA Anderson Forecast will come from those industries.
Chris Hoene, executive director of the California Budget & Policy Center, is particularly worried about those workers because they tend to be lower paid. Other vulnerable populations he’s watching for are those who are at risk of being homeless — for example people couch-surfing with friends — and undocumented residents who can’t access all the same public benefits.
“My fear is that those folks will then become economically unstable for a much longer period of time, they’ll be less able to recover quickly,” Hoene said. “We could see an increase in the state’s already high levels of homelessness. We could see an increase in the poverty level.”
If those workers aren’t able to recover quickly it could make it harder for the whole region to recover, he said.
Ted Egan, chief economist at the San Francisco Office of the Controller, said some Bay Area businesses are also being affected by the potentially long-lasting damage the outbreak has done to the global supply chain.
“I think that there’s some types of business — you think about takeout and delivery services — that people will turn to when they can’t turn to their retails in person,” Egan said, which could include tech companies that do deliveries like DoorDash or online shopping like Amazon.
But in a recession where the financial system is in trouble and consumers are suffering, not even those businesses will be safe.
The Bay Area’s construction industry also is affected, with all but a few essential jobs at hospitals and public transit being postponed, said Daniel Romero, assistant business manager for electrical workers union in Santa Clara County.
“One guy called me, he was almost in tears yesterday,” Romero said. “He barely got back to work and the job was shut down.”
It’s hard to know if all building has stopped — housing construction is considered an essential service that will be allowed to continue — but Romero said he’s directing his members to file for unemployment if their job is shut down or to access the union’s disability benefits if they test positive for COVID-19. In the meantime, the union has closed its apprenticeship program and is down to a skeleton crew.
“The unknowing I think is the hardest part,” he said. “We’re complying, so we’re just doing the best we can.”
For those hoping that at least a recession might bring down the region’s sky-high home prices, research suggests that might not happen, according to a Zillow analysis of past outbreaks. During the SARS epidemic, Hong Kong’s home prices stayed basically the same but the number of home sales declined by as much as three quarters.
Although most forecasters are predicting short-term economic declines, not everyone thinks the region is headed toward a recession.
“Everybody take a deep breath,” said Thornberg, of Beacon Economics.”Shutting everything down right now is a way of preventing a problem, not causing a problem.”
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Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms Business | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge He compared the outbreak to natural disasters like hurricanes or earthquakes, which cause temporary disruptions but aren’t a sufficiently long-term shock to tip the economy into a recession. He said it’s possible we’ll have one quarter of negative economic growth, but that’s it.
But all forecasters and experts agree on one thing: The economic damage done by the pandemic will be determined by how long it lasts and how quickly it is brought under control. In announcing its revision predicting a recession, UCLA Anderson Forecast included an important caveat.
“If the pandemic is much worse than assumed, this forecast will be too optimistic,” it said.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Poll: Dem voters in three states trust Biden over Sanders to handle major crisis

Democratic primary voters across all three states heading to the polls on Tuesday said they trust former Vice President Joe Biden over Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders to handle a major crisis like the coronavirus pandemic facing the nation , according to preliminary findings from CNN primary polling .
About 6 in 10 in Illinois and Arizona said they would trust Biden more in a crisis , while in Florida , that stood higher at about 7 in 10 .
That mirrors findings from exit polling conducted last week , which found Biden trusted by a wide margin over Sanders among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and Washington .
Arizona , Florida and Illinois moved forward with their presidential primaries on Tuesday , while other states have postponed their elections over concerns about the virus .
In Ohio , where a primary was scheduled for Tuesday , Republican Gov .
Mike DeWine announced Monday night that polls would be closed because of a health emergency related to the pandemic .
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday recommended that no gatherings with 50 people or more take place for the next eight weeks to slow the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency said these gatherings include conferences , festivals , parades , concerts , sporting events , weddings and other types of assemblies .
Additionally , the White House said Monday that all Americans should avoid groups of more than 10 and advised older people to stay home .
Preliminary findings from a CNN Primary Poll in Illinois found widespread concern about the effects of the coronavirus outbreak , with many worried about the direction of the nation ’ s economy in the next year .
A majority of Democratic primary voters in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the effects of the virus , and nearly 9 in 10 said they are at least somewhat concerned about it .
About half said they are very worried about the direction the nation ’ s economy could take , a figure that rises to almost 6 in 10 among those who are deeply concerned about the virus ’ effects .
Relatively few voters in Florida and Illinois said that the novel coronavirus itself would change their decision to vote .
Voters interviewed from Thursday on who had not yet voted early were asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change their decision to vote because of the virus .
All told , just 8 % of primary voters in Illinois and 6 % in Florida said it was very or somewhat likely that the impact of coronavirus could change their decision to vote .
Electability and the fight against Trump Voters in the three states hosting elections Tuesday are no different than their predecessors in the Democratic primary race so far on at least one score : Majorities in all three prioritize nominating a candidate who can beat President Donald Trump over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues .
About two-thirds in Arizona and Florida said so , as did about 6 in 10 in Illinois .
That ’ s right about on par with the overall share across all states where exit , entrance or primary polls have been conducted so far .
• COVID-19 : Iran warns that ‘ millions ’ could be killed • China to expel US reporters in spat over media curbs In Arizona , a state widely expected to be a battleground in November , about 7 in 10 said they are angry about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the roughly two-thirds who said so in Illinois and the 6 in 10 who feel the same way in Florida .
CNN Primary Polls were conducted by Edison Research for the National Election Pool in Arizona , Florida and Illinois .
Results are based on telephone polls conducted before election day .
The margin of error for results based on the full sample is plus or minus 4 points each state .

By Jennifer Agiesta | CNN
Democratic primary voters across all three states heading to the polls on Tuesday said they trust former Vice President Joe Biden over Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders to handle a major crisis like the coronavirus pandemic facing the nation, according to preliminary findings from CNN primary polling.
About 6 in 10 in Illinois and Arizona said they would trust Biden more in a crisis, while in Florida, that stood higher at about 7 in 10. That mirrors findings from exit polling conducted last week, which found Biden trusted by a wide margin over Sanders among Democratic primary voters in Michigan, Missouri, and Washington.
Arizona, Florida and Illinois moved forward with their presidential primaries on Tuesday, while other states have postponed their elections over concerns about the virus. In Ohio, where a primary was scheduled for Tuesday, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine announced Monday night that polls would be closed because of a health emergency related to the pandemic.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Sunday recommended that no gatherings with 50 people or more take place for the next eight weeks to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. The agency said these gatherings include conferences, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings and other types of assemblies. Additionally, the White House said Monday that all Americans should avoid groups of more than 10 and advised older people to stay home.
Preliminary findings from a CNN Primary Poll in Illinois found widespread concern about the effects of the coronavirus outbreak, with many worried about the direction of the nation’s economy in the next year.
A majority of Democratic primary voters in the state said they are very concerned about the effects of the virus, and nearly 9 in 10 said they are at least somewhat concerned about it. About half said they are very worried about the direction the nation’s economy could take, a figure that rises to almost 6 in 10 among those who are deeply concerned about the virus’ effects.
Relatively few voters in Florida and Illinois said that the novel coronavirus itself would change their decision to vote. Voters interviewed from Thursday on who had not yet voted early were asked how likely it was that they would change their decision to vote because of the virus. All told, just 8% of primary voters in Illinois and 6% in Florida said it was very or somewhat likely that the impact of coronavirus could change their decision to vote.
Electability and the fight against Trump
Voters in the three states hosting elections Tuesday are no different than their predecessors in the Democratic primary race so far on at least one score: Majorities in all three prioritize nominating a candidate who can beat President Donald Trump over one who agrees with them on the issues.
About two-thirds in Arizona and Florida said so, as did about 6 in 10 in Illinois. That’s right about on par with the overall share across all states where exit, entrance or primary polls have been conducted so far.
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CNN Primary Polls were conducted by Edison Research for the National Election Pool in Arizona, Florida and Illinois. Results are based on telephone polls conducted before election day. The margin of error for results based on the full sample is plus or minus 4 points each state.


mercurynews--2020-03-17--5 top TV shows to stream if you’re stuck in the house

If you are stuck inside with the home-sheltering blues , it ’ s a good time to get caught up with some current TV shows that maybe never got off your “ to watch ” list .
With that in mind , here are five streaming options that lean toward newer material ( one to two seasons ) and , in most cases , lesser-known shows .
Our other objective : Go with lighter , escapist fare rather than post-apocalyptic , world-in-peril bleakness .
( So “ The Walking Dead ” and “ Chernobyl ” are out ) : As @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it might be reassuring to know that the devilish members of the fictional media empire family depicted in this darkly delicious series have major headaches of their own .
Technically , “ Succession ” is a drama , but it contains plenty of wildly uproarious moments and comically depraved characters .
You ’ ll take sadistic glee in watching the ruthless power plays and bitter back-stabbing unfold as Logan Roy ’ s ( Brian Cox ) once-indomitable dynasty falls into disarray .
( Two seasons , 20 episodes ; HBO Now and Hulu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s take that to the extreme and venture to a galaxy far , far away .
This first-ever live-action “ Star War ” TV series follows a mysterious , armor-clad gun bounty hunter ( “ Game of Thrones ” alum Pedro Pascal ) as he encounters various villains and kooky aliens during his otherworldly travels .
Better yet : You ’ ll get to see what all the fuss over Baby Yoda is about .
( One season , eight episodes ; Disney+ ) .
This disarmingly raw and hilariously acerbic British import @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last fall .
Phoebe Waller-Bridge created and stars as the title character — a deeply flawed single woman navigating her way through a maze of dysfunctional family relationships , raw emotions , thorny truths and dating misadventures .
It was our choice for 2019 ’ s best series .
( Two seasons , 12 episodes ; Amazon Prime ) .
Yearn to return to a simpler time when hand sanitizer and toilet paper weren ’ t in short supply ?
Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle , two adult women , play versions of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the heyday of Blockbuster Video and the Spice Girls .
( Their fellow students are portrayed by actual kids ) .
Yes , it ’ s a strange premise , but the result is an amusing , heartfelt series that resonates with all the traumatic awkwardness of adolescence .
( One season , 10 episodes ; Hulu ) .
Two of our favorite TV actresses — Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini — headline this tragicomedy , which is perfectly tailored for a brisk and humorous binge .
Applegate , in a career-best performance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lost her husband in a hit-and-run accident .
Cardellini is an eccentric optimist who meets her in a grief support group .
The two women bond and plenty of unexpected twists and stunning cliffhangers ensue .
( One season , 10 episodes ; Netflix )

If you are stuck inside with the home-sheltering blues, it’s a good time to get caught up with some current TV shows that maybe never got off your “to watch” list.
With that in mind, here are five streaming options that lean toward newer material (one to two seasons) and, in most cases, lesser-known shows. Our other objective: Go with lighter, escapist fare rather than post-apocalyptic, world-in-peril bleakness. (So “The Walking Dead” and “Chernobyl” are out):
“Succession”
As the stock market takes a pounding, it might be reassuring to know that the devilish members of the fictional media empire family depicted in this darkly delicious series have major headaches of their own. Technically, “Succession” is a drama, but it contains plenty of wildly uproarious moments and comically depraved characters. You’ll take sadistic glee in watching the ruthless power plays and bitter back-stabbing unfold as Logan Roy’s (Brian Cox) once-indomitable dynasty falls into disarray. (Two seasons, 20 episodes; HBO Now and Hulu).
“The Mandalorian”
Social distancing? Let’s take that to the extreme and venture to a galaxy far, far away. This first-ever live-action “Star War” TV series follows a mysterious, armor-clad gun bounty hunter (“Game of Thrones” alum Pedro Pascal) as he encounters various villains and kooky aliens during his otherworldly travels. Better yet: You’ll get to see what all the fuss over Baby Yoda is about. (One season, eight episodes; Disney+).
“Fleabag”
This disarmingly raw and hilariously acerbic British import received an outpouring of well-deserved Emmy love last fall. Phoebe Waller-Bridge created and stars as the title character — a deeply flawed single woman navigating her way through a maze of dysfunctional family relationships, raw emotions, thorny truths and dating misadventures. It was our choice for 2019’s best series. (Two seasons, 12 episodes; Amazon Prime).
“Pen15″
Yearn to return to a simpler time when hand sanitizer and toilet paper weren’t in short supply? Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle, two adult women, play versions of themselves as middle-school nerds growing up in the heyday of Blockbuster Video and the Spice Girls. (Their fellow students are portrayed by actual kids). Yes, it’s a strange premise, but the result is an amusing, heartfelt series that resonates with all the traumatic awkwardness of adolescence. (One season, 10 episodes; Hulu).
“Dead to Me”
Two of our favorite TV actresses — Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini — headline this tragicomedy, which is perfectly tailored for a brisk and humorous binge. Applegate, in a career-best performance, plays a volatile young widow who lost her husband in a hit-and-run accident. Cardellini is an eccentric optimist who meets her in a grief support group. The two women bond and plenty of unexpected twists and stunning cliffhangers ensue. (One season, 10 episodes; Netflix)


mercurynews--2020-03-17--Teenager sought in fatal shooting at East Bay high school surrenders

A teenage boy on the run and sought by U.S .
Marshals following a fatal shooting at an Antioch high school earlier this year turned himself into authorities , police said Tuesday .
The 15-year-old suspect and an attorney arranged his surrender at the Oakland Police Department at an undisclosed time Tuesday , Antioch police Sgt .
James Stenger said .
He later was taken to Martinez and booked into Contra Costa Juvenile Hall , he said .
Police publicly identified the teen last week as Daiveon Allison , of Pittsburg .
His surrender comes four days after police used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ identify suspects under 18 who are considered a danger to the community .
The teen is suspected of firing the shots that killed 16-year-old Jonathon Parker on Jan. 31 .
The shooting happened in the parking lot of Deer Valley High School , 4700 Lone Tree Way , after a basketball game .
According to police , Parker was shot at least three times .
He died several hours later .
Parker was a sophomore at Deer Valley .
His family said he had never before attended a school basketball game .
Under @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year , Allison can not be charged as an adult .
The maximum penalty for those found guilty in juvenile court is confinement until the defendant ’ s 25th birthday , except in rare extenuating circumstances .

A teenage boy on the run and sought by U.S. Marshals following a fatal shooting at an Antioch high school earlier this year turned himself into authorities, police said Tuesday.
The 15-year-old suspect and an attorney arranged his surrender at the Oakland Police Department at an undisclosed time Tuesday, Antioch police Sgt. James Stenger said. He later was taken to Martinez and booked into Contra Costa Juvenile Hall, he said.
Police publicly identified the teen last week as Daiveon Allison, of Pittsburg. His surrender comes four days after police used a law which allows them to publicly identify suspects under 18 who are considered a danger to the community.
The teen is suspected of firing the shots that killed 16-year-old Jonathon Parker on Jan. 31. The shooting happened in the parking lot of Deer Valley High School, 4700 Lone Tree Way, after a basketball game.
According to police, Parker was shot at least three times. He died several hours later.
Parker was a sophomore at Deer Valley. His family said he had never before attended a school basketball game.
Under SB 1391, which took effect last year, Allison cannot be charged as an adult. The maximum penalty for those found guilty in juvenile court is confinement until the defendant’s 25th birthday, except in rare extenuating circumstances.
Staff writer Nate Gartrell contributed to this story.