mercurynews--2020-04-20--An East Bay fugitive avoided murder charges for 15 years, hiding in plain sight. Police hatched a cu

An East Bay fugitive avoided murder charges for 15 years, hiding in plain sight. Police hatched a cunning plan to track him down

STOCKTON — Last November , when a multi-agency police task force stormed into a nondescript single-story home and arrested him as he allegedly attempted to elude dozens of cops , 39-year-old Tyson Moorehead ended a 15-year run from the law .
Moorehead was wanted for the May 2004 slaying of Michael Fidle ; Moorehead was suspected of gunning Fidler down during a botched marijuana robbery at Fidler ’ s Pleasant Hill apartment .
While Fidler ’ s alleged lesser-involved accomplice , Kenneth York , sat in a prison cell serving life for his role in the killing , Moorehead had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normal life as a man with a $ 1 million murder warrant hanging over his head .
But an unlikely chain of events changed that : Last year , York won a longshot Ninth Circuit appeal , forcing prosecutors to re-try him and prompting investigators to refocus on the search for Moorehead , which had fallen to the wayside .
When the search turned up nothing , police hatched a cunning plot : Invent a fraudulent murder-for-hire plot , and convince Moorehead ’ s family that his life was in danger .
By @ @ @ @ @ @ @ phones of family members based upon a theory that Moorehead was relying on his family to keep him concealed .
Until then , it had all been in vain .
The family wasn ’ t cooperating , and they weren ’ t contacting Moorehead either .
Investigators needed something to prompt someone in Moorehead ’ s life to give up his location — what police sometimes refer to as a “ tickler , ” some sort of public statement or ruse to get people talking on phones .
Eventually , they came up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s family that York was coming after Moorehead and his family by inventing a fake murder-for-hire plot .
Undercover officers posed as York ’ s henchmen and visited Moorehead ’ s son ’ s at his workplace .
According to police testimony at York and Moorehead ’ s preliminary hearing last January , the plan began unfolding when Pleasant Hill police approached members of Moorehead ’ s family and told them they ’ d intercepted notes from York ’ s jail cell that said he wanted Moorehead dead .
They offered police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer down .
The plan ’ s first attempt had failed .
Moorehead ’ s family was alert to such attempts , and many suspected —accurately — that the police claim was a ruse .
They sent two undercover officers — posing as York ’ s henchmen — to Moorehead ’ s son ’ s place of employment , according to police testimony .
The “ henchmen ” handed over a letter warning Moorehead to keep his mouth shut and not testify against York in court .
The gamble worked .
Moorehead ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ giving police a chance to get Moorehead ’ s number .
From there , a warrant gave them a GPS ping on Moorehead ’ s phone .
Police tracked down his location and arrested him in Stockton last November .
As officers closed in , Moorehead attempted to hide under furniture in his home and flee on foot , authorities said .
When police sat down to interview him , Moorehead denied involvement in Fidler ’ s killing .
He said he visited Fidler that day , along with York and a third @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Perez — but that he had left before the shooting started , because someone in Fidler ’ s apartment was being racist , according to the testimony of Pleasant Hill police Det .
Chelsea Wright .
Police had known since the GPS ping that Moorehead had been living just an hour from Fidler ’ s killing , even with the murder warrant hanging over his head .
When they interviewed him , they realized that he ’ d even been traveling the country — and had even managed to escape trouble in an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fugitive status .
Years ago , Moorehead had been arrested in Mississippi , when an officer reported seeing him toss a gun under the car during a traffic stop .
He gave police his cousin ’ s name and , although his fingerprints were entered into a database , officers never realized his true identity , according to police testimony .
According to authorities , York and Moorehead had plotted to rob Fidler because of his reputation for having a large amount of marijuana at his Golf Club Road apartment .
On the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they allegedly entered the apartment , possibly under the guise of wanting to purchase marijuana .
Fidler ’ s roommate later told police that the men pulled guns , a fight broke out , and he ran into Fidler ’ s bedroom and armed himself with a shotgun in anticipation of the robbers storming in .
Instead , he heard gunfire outside the door and found Fidler in the living room , suffering from a fatal gunshot wound .
The case remained unsolved for two years , until police were able to put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to build a criminal case against York and Moorehead .
A major witness was Perez , who told authorities ( and would later testify ) a story that implicated himself as an accessory .
In Perez ’ s version of events , York called him in a panic in the early morning hours of May 11 , then confessed in a face-to-face meeting that he and Moorehead had fatally shot a man in Pleasant Hill .
Perez told police he agreed to take a duffel bag with clothes and other unspecified items related @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Nevada City , a town on the California side of the Nevada border .
Multiple witnesses said that York later arrived on the property , that he drove off , alone , with a shiny silver revolver , thought to be the murder weapon , and that the duffel bag was thrown into a bonfire .
Moorehead was never arrested , but York was .
In 2009 a jury convicted him of murder and robbery .
Perez , a key witness for the prosecution , had recounted not only the post-homicide meeting but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ robbery plot beforehand .
“ Kenny would just say , ‘ Yeah , I know a guy we can jack in Pleasant Hill , ’ ” Perez testified in 2009 .
“ I thought it was just Kenny being Kenny .
He would brag about everything — the weed he sold , the guns he had , the things he did .
I never took Kenny seriously.
” • An East Bay teen hatched a plot to meet adults through sex- & -dating app , then blackmail them for cash York ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , when the Ninth Circuit ruled that York ’ s attorney , Michael Cardoza , had erred when he failed to bring up records of Perez ’ s cellphone that showed no evidence of an early-morning call .
The court found that the records , had they been introduced , could reasonably have swayed the jury in the other direction .
Now , York and Moorehead are back in Contra Costa County , making joint court appearances .
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe disruptions to court scheduling ; a trial date is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ May .

STOCKTON — Last November, when a multi-agency police task force stormed into a nondescript single-story home and arrested him as he allegedly attempted to elude dozens of cops, 39-year-old Tyson Moorehead ended a 15-year run from the law.
Moorehead was wanted for the May 2004 slaying of Michael Fidler; he was suspected of gunning Fidler down during a botched marijuana robbery at Fidler’s Pleasant Hill apartment.
While Moorehead’s alleged lesser-involved accomplice, Kenneth York, sat in a prison cell serving life for his role in the killing, Moorehead had done the near-impossible: living a relatively normal life as a man with a $1 million murder warrant hanging over his head.
But an unlikely chain of events changed that: Last year, York won a longshot Ninth Circuit appeal, forcing prosecutors to re-try him and prompting investigators to refocus on the search for Moorehead, which had fallen to the wayside. When the search turned up nothing, police hatched a cunning plot: Invent a fraudulent murder-for-hire plot, and convince Moorehead’s family that his life was in danger.
By this point, authorities had tried wiretapping phones of family members based upon a theory that Moorehead was relying on his family to keep him concealed.
Until then, it had all been in vain.
The family wasn’t cooperating, and they weren’t contacting Moorehead either.
Prompting a slip
Investigators needed something to prompt someone in Moorehead’s life to give up his location — what police sometimes refer to as a “tickler,” some sort of public statement or ruse to get people talking on phones.
Eventually, they came up with a precarious solution: Convince Moorehead’s family that York was coming after Moorehead and his family by inventing a fake murder-for-hire plot.
Undercover officers posed as York’s henchmen and visited Moorehead’s son’s at his workplace.
According to police testimony at York and Moorehead’s preliminary hearing last January, the plan began unfolding when Pleasant Hill police approached members of Moorehead’s family and told them they’d intercepted notes from York’s jail cell that said he wanted Moorehead dead. They offered police protection, but the family turned the offer down.
The plan’s first attempt had failed. Moorehead’s family was alert to such attempts, and many suspected —accurately — that the police claim was a ruse.
Police upped the ante.
They sent two undercover officers — posing as York’s henchmen — to Moorehead’s son’s place of employment, according to police testimony. The “henchmen” handed over a letter warning Moorehead to keep his mouth shut and not testify against York in court.
The gamble worked. Moorehead’s family contacted him by phone, giving police a chance to get Moorehead’s number. From there, a warrant gave them a GPS ping on Moorehead’s phone.
Police tracked down his location and arrested him in Stockton last November. As officers closed in, Moorehead attempted to hide under furniture in his home and flee on foot, authorities said.
His story of 2004 killing
When police sat down to interview him, Moorehead denied involvement in Fidler’s killing. He said he visited Fidler that day, along with York and a third man — a prosecution witness named Junior Perez — but that he had left before the shooting started, because someone in Fidler’s apartment was being racist, according to the testimony of Pleasant Hill police Det. Chelsea Wright.
Police had known since the GPS ping that Moorehead had been living just an hour from Fidler’s killing, even with the murder warrant hanging over his head. When they interviewed him, they realized that he’d even been traveling the country — and had even managed to escape trouble in an out-of-state charge that could have exposed his fugitive status.
Years ago, Moorehead had been arrested in Mississippi, when an officer reported seeing him toss a gun under the car during a traffic stop. He gave police his cousin’s name and, although his fingerprints were entered into a database, officers never realized his true identity, according to police testimony.
According to authorities, York and Moorehead had plotted to rob Fidler because of his reputation for having a large amount of marijuana at his Golf Club Road apartment. On the night of May 10, 2004, they allegedly entered the apartment, possibly under the guise of wanting to purchase marijuana.
Fidler’s roommate later told police that the men pulled guns, a fight broke out, and he ran into Fidler’s bedroom and armed himself with a shotgun in anticipation of the robbers storming in. Instead, he heard gunfire outside the door and found Fidler in the living room, suffering from a fatal gunshot wound.
Witness comes forward
The case remained unsolved for two years, until police were able to put bits and pieces of witness statements together to build a criminal case against York and Moorehead. A major witness was Perez, who told authorities (and would later testify) a story that implicated himself as an accessory.
In Perez’s version of events, York called him in a panic in the early morning hours of May 11, then confessed in a face-to-face meeting that he and Moorehead had fatally shot a man in Pleasant Hill. Perez told police he agreed to take a duffel bag with clothes and other unspecified items related to the incident to a property in Nevada City, a town on the California side of the Nevada border.
Multiple witnesses said that York later arrived on the property, that he drove off, alone, with a shiny silver revolver, thought to be the murder weapon, and that the duffel bag was thrown into a bonfire.
Moorehead was never arrested, but York was. In 2009 a jury convicted him of murder and robbery. Perez, a key witness for the prosecution, had recounted not only the post-homicide meeting but also said York informed him about the robbery plot beforehand.
“Kenny would just say, ‘Yeah, I know a guy we can jack in Pleasant Hill,’ ” Perez testified in 2009. “I thought it was just Kenny being Kenny. He would brag about everything — the weed he sold, the guns he had, the things he did. I never took Kenny seriously.”
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Giuliani: Legal quagmires have left him broke Crime and Public Safety | Oakland nonfatal shooting suspect hit with federal gun possession charges York’s conviction held up until early last year, when the Ninth Circuit ruled that York’s attorney, Michael Cardoza, had erred when he failed to bring up records of Perez’s cellphone that showed no evidence of an early-morning call. The court found that the records, had they been introduced, could reasonably have swayed the jury in the other direction.
Now, York and Moorehead are back in Contra Costa County, making joint court appearances. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused severe disruptions to court scheduling; a trial date is not likely to be set before late May.


mercurynews--2020-04-20--Coronavirus: 49ers Lynch conflicted over NFL draft, ‘scared’ for season

John Lynch expressed “ conflicted feelings ” about holding the draft amid the COVID-19 pandemic , and the 49ers general manager is unsure if it will be safe to open the season on time in September .
“ Some people make a really compelling case that there ’ s no way this is happening .
That scares me , ” Lynch said Monday on a video conference with reporters .
“ Some make a very compelling case that we ’ re playing and here ’ s how we ’ re going to do it .
“ Like everybody else , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Is everybody on the 49ers safe from the coronavirus that ’ s not only ravaged the globe but hit especially hard in Santa Clara County , where the team headquarters has been locked up the past month ?
Santa Clara County has reported 1,922 cases with 83 deaths .
Lynch said he “ legally is not at liberty to share certain things ” if any 49ers employee has been stricken , such as positive cases that have been confirmed by Denver Broncos ’ star Von Miller and Los Angeles Rams center Brian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to certain people .
I ’ m just going to leave it at that , ” Lynch added .
“ But I ’ m really proud of how our team and organization has responded to all these challenges.
” Lynch said he ’ s relying on the NFL and its experts whether the season will start on time Sept. 10 , adding that the leading criteria will be “ when it ’ s safe.
” As for going forward with free agency last month and now the draft this week , it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understand there are people out there hurting , ” Lynch said .
“ They ’ ve closed their small business down .
The real-life stuff that matters .
They have people in their family who ’ ve been directly affected by this .
“ At times , I went through it and I ’ m sure a lot of people did , ( saying ) , ‘ What the heck are we doing with free agency , what are we doing having a draft ?
’ After free agency , I can ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and said , ‘ Thank goodness you did this.
’ It ’ s the only thing we have to keep us entertained.
” The 49ers have set Lynch up with nine monitors and three phones to conduct the draft from his guest house , where he ’ ll be shadowed by only Mike Bracken , the team ’ s director of video operations .
Coach Kyle Shanahan will be working from his house , per the league-wide ’ s protocol for its first-ever virtual draft , and Shanahan will be one of Lynch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enhance their communication .
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John Lynch expressed “conflicted feelings” about holding the draft amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 49ers general manager is unsure if it will be safe to open the season on time in September.
“Some people make a really compelling case that there’s no way this is happening. That scares me,” Lynch said Monday on a video conference with reporters. “Some make a very compelling case that we’re playing and here’s how we’re going to do it.
“Like everybody else, we’re eager to do so.”
Is everybody on the 49ers safe from the coronavirus that’s not only ravaged the globe but hit especially hard in Santa Clara County, where the team headquarters has been locked up the past month? Santa Clara County has reported 1,922 cases with 83 deaths.
Lynch said he “legally is not at liberty to share certain things” if any 49ers employee has been stricken, such as positive cases that have been confirmed by Denver Broncos’ star Von Miller and Los Angeles Rams center Brian Allen.
“That’s up to certain people. I’m just going to leave it at that,” Lynch added. “But I’m really proud of how our team and organization has responded to all these challenges.”
Lynch said he’s relying on the NFL and its experts whether the season will start on time Sept. 10, adding that the leading criteria will be “when it’s safe.”
As for going forward with free agency last month and now the draft this week, it’s given Lynch pause.
“You understand there are people out there hurting,” Lynch said. “They’ve closed their small business down. The real-life stuff that matters. They have people in their family who’ve been directly affected by this.
“At times, I went through it and I’m sure a lot of people did, (saying), ‘What the heck are we doing with free agency, what are we doing having a draft?’ After free agency, I can’t tell you how many people called and said, ‘Thank goodness you did this.’ It’s the only thing we have to keep us entertained.”
Technology has come a long way since Pete Rozelle’s typewriter as NFL commish (as seen in @ProFootballHOF) pic.twitter.com/00vaEOn2ST — Cam Inman (@CamInman) April 20, 2020


mercurynews--2020-04-20--WATCH: Oakland A’s Semien and Luzardo go suit shopping

OK , so no one ’ s playing ball right now .
But you can still maintain that connection with some of your favorite players .
“ Fitted , ” a new show released today on the MLB ’ s YouTube channel , spotlights the league ’ s long tradition of veteran players taking rookies under their wings via a suit-shopping experience .
The debut episode features Oakland A ’ s shortstop Marcus Semien and pitcher Jesús Luzardo .
In the eight-minute installment , shot during spring training , Semien takes Luzardo to an upscale shop in Phoenix , Arizona @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of course , it ’ s about more than just the clothes as the players look back on their baseball upbringing , their families and their path to the bigs .
Semien , who grew up in the Bay Area , recalls hopping on BART as a kid and going to the Coliseum to watch Oakland stars like Eric Chavez and Miguel Tejada do their thing .
When Semien , who played college ball at Cal , joined the A ’ s , he says , “ my entire childhood kind of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” is part of “ MLB Originals , ” a new programming series released weekly on YouTube .
The lineup of six new shows ranges from an in-depth look at unique baseball traditions and rituals to behind-the-scenes glimpses into player ’ s and teammates ’ lives off the field .
So what kind of fancy duds did Luzardo end up with ?
You ’ ll have to watch the video to find out .

OK, so no one’s playing ball right now. But you can still maintain that connection with some of your favorite players.
“Fitted,” a new show released today on the MLB’s YouTube channel, spotlights the league’s long tradition of veteran players taking rookies under their wings via a suit-shopping experience. The debut episode features Oakland A’s shortstop Marcus Semien and pitcher Jesús Luzardo.
In the eight-minute installment, shot during spring training, Semien takes Luzardo to an upscale shop in Phoenix, Arizona and shows the youngster the sartorial ropes. Of course, it’s about more than just the clothes as the players look back on their baseball upbringing, their families and their path to the bigs.
Semien, who grew up in the Bay Area, recalls hopping on BART as a kid and going to the Coliseum to watch Oakland stars like Eric Chavez and Miguel Tejada do their thing. When Semien, who played college ball at Cal, joined the A’s, he says, “my entire childhood kind of flashed before my eyes.”
“Fitted” is part of “MLB Originals,” a new programming series released weekly on YouTube. The lineup of six new shows ranges from an in-depth look at unique baseball traditions and rituals to behind-the-scenes glimpses into player’s and teammates’ lives off the field.
So what kind of fancy duds did Luzardo end up with? You’ll have to watch the video to find out.


mercurynews--2020-04-20--Richmond pair arrested in San Jose stabbing that killed Santa Cruz man

SAN JOSE — A man and woman from Richmond have been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a Santa Cruz man in South San Jose earlier this month , police said .
Jason Koplin , 34 , and Violet Smyth , 23 , were in Las Vegas when they were arrested by FBI agents last Wednesday , according to San Jose police .
Records show they are being held in jail without bail in Clark County , Nevada , and are awaiting extradition to Santa Clara County .
Around 7:30 p.m. on April 6 , officers were called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ La Strada and Primrose drives after someone requested a welfare check for someone inside a vehicle parked there , police said .
Responding officers found 22-year-old Zane Blake Groves suffering from stabbing injuries ; he was pronounced dead at the scene .
An ensuing investigation led to the identification of Koplin , alleged to have committed the stabbing , and Smyth , who is accused of helping Koplin afterward .
Koplin is being held in jail on suspicion of murder , and Smyth is being held on an accessory warrant , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motive and circumstances of the stabbing , have not been released by San Jose police .
Anyone with information about the case can contact SJPD homicide Detective Sgt .
Ali Miri or Detective Gabriel Cuenca 408-277-5283 or leave a tip with Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers at 408-947-7867 or at svcrimestoppers.org .
Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward .

SAN JOSE — A man and woman from Richmond have been arrested in connection with the fatal stabbing of a Santa Cruz man in South San Jose earlier this month, police said.
Jason Koplin, 34, and Violet Smyth, 23, were in Las Vegas when they were arrested by FBI agents last Wednesday, according to San Jose police. Records show they are being held in jail without bail in Clark County, Nevada, and are awaiting extradition to Santa Clara County.
Around 7:30 p.m. on April 6, officers were called to the area of Palmia Park near La Strada and Primrose drives after someone requested a welfare check for someone inside a vehicle parked there, police said. Responding officers found 22-year-old Zane Blake Groves suffering from stabbing injuries; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
An ensuing investigation led to the identification of Koplin, alleged to have committed the stabbing, and Smyth, who is accused of helping Koplin afterward. Koplin is being held in jail on suspicion of murder, and Smyth is being held on an accessory warrant, according to authorities.
Additional details, including a motive and circumstances of the stabbing, have not been released by San Jose police.
Anyone with information about the case can contact SJPD homicide Detective Sgt. Ali Miri or Detective Gabriel Cuenca 408-277-5283 or leave a tip with Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers at 408-947-7867 or at svcrimestoppers.org. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Coronavirus fallout: Neiman Marcus poised for bankruptcy protection

Neiman Marcus is preparing to file for bankruptcy amid the COVID-19 outbreak while other major major retailers are struggling to avoid a similar fate .
The Dallas-based company didn ’ t have a lot of options after the health pandemic forced it to temporarily shutter all 43 of its Neiman Marcus locations , as well as its 22 remaining Last Call stores and its two Bergdorf Goodman stores in New York .
Neiman ’ s filing is expected to come within days , according to Reuters .
The company is $ 4.8 billion in debt , and it skipped millions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including one that gave it only a few days to avoid a default .
The retail chain is negotiating a loan with creditors for hundreds of millions of dollars .
The money would keep some of its operations afloat during bankruptcy proceedings .
Neiman has furloughed many of its 14,000 employees .
Last month , Neiman announced it planned to close more than half of its remaining 22 Last Call stores , which sell designer brands at big discounts .
That move alone was expected to fuel 500 job cuts over the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation is tied heavily to its 2013 buyout by private equity firm Ares Management Corp. and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board , according to Burt Flickinger III , managing director for the retail consulting firm Strategic Resource Group .
“ COVID-19 is affecting everyone from Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus to Macy ’ s and JCPenney , ” he said .
“ Neiman Marcus has some good financial managers , but things are too unbalanced with Ares Management .
From 99 Cents Only to other specialty stores , Ares has not had the retail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a combination of good management and overall leadership have had.
” Other department store operators have also seen their finances stretched thin as nonessential services across the nation continue to be shuttered during the pandemic .
Macy ’ s and Nordstrom have been rushing to secure new financing , including borrowing against some of their own real estate .
J.C. Penney is also contemplating a bankruptcy filing as a way to revamp its unsustainable finances and save money on looming debt payments , Reuters reported .
Will these stores survive the economic downturn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Flickinger said .
“ All of them will take a major hit , but we ’ re going to see rolling openings that could start as early as May 1 in the Midwest .
Consumers will be out for Memorial Day , one of the top 10 weekends for retail , and spending will be even stronger as we move to July 4 and Labor Day.
” Economist Chris Thornberg , a founding partner with Beacon Economics , expects the economy to make a rapid recovery .
• Trump claims he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to coronavirus fears • Video : Drone views of an empty Bay Area during coronavirus shelter-in-place order “ My presumption is we ’ ll more or less get things back up and running by the third quarter , ” he said .
“ Most restrictions will be lifted in May , although it may take a little longer for some small segments like concerts .
We ’ re looking for a record negative second quarter and record positive third quarter.
” Flickinger said consumers will see “ unprecedented ” discounts as retail chains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He predicts that advertising and ad revenue will soon be “ off the charts.
” But many consumers will be shopping for larger-sized clothes .
“ People have been eating more and getting less exercise because they ’ ve been sequestered at home , ” Flickinger said .
“ There ’ s been no gym classes , no team sports and no adult leagues for parents .
The CDC reports that obesity in America has reached epic proportions .
”

Neiman Marcus is preparing to file for bankruptcy amid the COVID-19 outbreak while other major major retailers are struggling to avoid a similar fate.
The Dallas-based company didn’t have a lot of options after the health pandemic forced it to temporarily shutter all 43 of its Neiman Marcus locations, as well as its 22 remaining Last Call stores and its two Bergdorf Goodman stores in New York.
$4.8 billion in debt
Neiman’s filing is expected to come within days, according to Reuters. The company is $4.8 billion in debt, and it skipped millions of dollars in debt payments last week, including one that gave it only a few days to avoid a default.
The retail chain is negotiating a loan with creditors for hundreds of millions of dollars. The money would keep some of its operations afloat during bankruptcy proceedings. Neiman has furloughed many of its 14,000 employees.
Last month, Neiman announced it planned to close more than half of its remaining 22 Last Call stores, which sell designer brands at big discounts. That move alone was expected to fuel 500 job cuts over the next eight months.
‘Unbalanced’ management
Neiman’s situation is tied heavily to its 2013 buyout by private equity firm Ares Management Corp. and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board, according to Burt Flickinger III, managing director for the retail consulting firm Strategic Resource Group.
“COVID-19 is affecting everyone from Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus to Macy’s and JCPenney,” he said. “Neiman Marcus has some good financial managers, but things are too unbalanced with Ares Management. From 99 Cents Only to other specialty stores, Ares has not had the retail success across sectors that other companies with a combination of good management and overall leadership have had.”
Shoring up finances
Other department store operators have also seen their finances stretched thin as nonessential services across the nation continue to be shuttered during the pandemic.
Macy’s and Nordstrom have been rushing to secure new financing, including borrowing against some of their own real estate.
J.C. Penney is also contemplating a bankruptcy filing as a way to revamp its unsustainable finances and save money on looming debt payments, Reuters reported.
A rapid recovery
Will these stores survive the economic downturn?
“Department stores will be OK,” Flickinger said. “All of them will take a major hit, but we’re going to see rolling openings that could start as early as May 1 in the Midwest. Consumers will be out for Memorial Day, one of the top 10 weekends for retail, and spending will be even stronger as we move to July 4 and Labor Day.”
Economist Chris Thornberg, a founding partner with Beacon Economics, expects the economy to make a rapid recovery.
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Flickinger said consumers will see “unprecedented” discounts as retail chains seek to rebuild their brick-and-mortar foot traffic. He predicts that advertising and ad revenue will soon be “off the charts.”
Larger sized clothes
But many consumers will be shopping for larger-sized clothes.
“People have been eating more and getting less exercise because they’ve been sequestered at home,” Flickinger said. “There’s been no gym classes, no team sports and no adult leagues for parents. The CDC reports that obesity in America has reached epic proportions.”


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Reopening California: Look to the past, avoid mass confusion, war survivor says

They came by the hundreds , bearing signs that read , “ Open our economy ” and “ I want to pray in church.
” From Michigan and Virginia , lockdown-protest fever spread like the flu to Montana , Arizona and Colorado .
And in recent days , it caught on in Southern California cities , too — Huntington Beach , Newport Beach and San Clemente .
One member of a newly formed task force studying how to reopen California is sympathetic but warned that a hasty retreat from social distancing could cost lives unnecessarily .
“ People are objecting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go back and interact , ” Emile Haddad , CEO of Irvine-based land developer FivePoint Communities and one of 80 members of Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s new Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery .
And it ’ s important , he said , to weigh health consequences against the health of the economy as well as people ’ s constitutional rights .
But , Haddad added , “ if we do things without a very careful thought process behind it , we will be subject to another wave ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ task force pulls together top corporate and labor leaders , state lawmakers as well as a former presidential candidate and a former Federal Reserve chair .
“ We will use a gradual , science-based and data-driven framework to guide our reopening timing while planning our economic recovery , ” Newsom said in a prepared statement .
“ We will bring together the public and private sectors , outside experts , organized labor , environmental groups , and activists to develop recommendations for a recovery plan that works for all Californians.
” Co-chaired by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Steyer , the task force includes many A-list business leaders from a broad spectrum of sectors including retail , restaurants , airlines and utilities .
Members include Walt Disney Co. Executive Chairman Bob Iger , former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen , Patagonia CEO and President Rose Marcario , Apple CEO Tim Cook , Homeboy Industries founder Father Gregory Boyle , Los Angeles Times ’ owner Patrick Soon-Shiong , Gap Inc. CEO Sonia Syngal , Los Angeles Clippers President Gillian Zucker and Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol .
Also included are leaders of 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ President Teresa Romero , United Food and Commercial Workers , Local 770 President John Grant and American Federation of State , County and Municipal Employees President Lee Saunders .
The four living California governors — Republicans Arnold Schwarzenegger and Pete Wilson , and Democrats Gray Davis and Jerry Brown — also are members .
“ We want to make this actionable , we want to make this meaningful , ” Newsom said .
“ This is not something where , in six months , I ’ m looking forward to giving you a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thick report .
We want in real-time to demonstrate meaningful reforms , meaningful changes.
” Haddad , a former Lennar homes executive who is spearheading the construction of 40,000 homes at the Orange County Great Park , near Magic Mountain and in San Francisco , learned of his appointment last Friday .
While he says he doesn ’ t have an agenda for reopening the state , he does bring unique insights as a survivor of the civil war in his native country of Lebanon .
He sees a lot of parallels between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the current coronavirus pandemic .
“ We had no food , no water , no electricity .
… We had to sit home and hunker down with our family members , ” he said .
From time to time , cease-fires would be announced , and some people would venture from their shelters onto the streets of Beirut .
Often , those actions were premature .
“ A lot of people didn ’ t give it enough time to see if the cease-fire would hold and went out and ended up getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I call this period of ( today ’ s ) crisis the very confused period and perhaps a very dangerous period because there ’ s no less risk in going out now than before .
That ’ s a parallel.
” Just like 9/11 , Haddad said , the pandemic will leave a permanent mark on society .
In 2001 , security officials implemented strict airport screenings that still are in effect .
The same things are likely today .
“ Testing and screening , that ’ s going to be a part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Haddad said .
“ I wouldn ’ t be surprised if people had to go through temperature testing before going into a building.… Those are things that will have to be part of our thought process.
” Haddad , who has been reading about the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic that killed 675,000 Americans , said cities that adhered to “ non-pharmaceutical intervention ” like social distancing a century ago “ were faster to recover economically.
” He hopes the governor ’ s new task force also will follow the examples from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of COVID-19 .
“ ( Our ) decisions will impact people ’ s wellbeing and the whole state , ” Haddad said .
“ The best way to reach the right answer is to seek the opinions of a lot of people.
” — The nonprofit news website CalMatters contributed to this report .
• Trump claims he will temporarily suspend immigration into US due to coronavirus fears • Video : Drone views of an empty Bay Area during coronavirus shelter-in-place order

They came by the hundreds, bearing signs that read, “Open our economy” and “I want to pray in church.”
From Michigan and Virginia, lockdown-protest fever spread like the flu to Montana, Arizona and Colorado. And in recent days, it caught on in Southern California cities, too — Huntington Beach, Newport Beach and San Clemente.
One member of a newly formed task force studying how to reopen California is sympathetic but warned that a hasty retreat from social distancing could cost lives unnecessarily.
“People are objecting, and they want to be able to go back and interact,” Emile Haddad, CEO of Irvine-based land developer FivePoint Communities and one of 80 members of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s new Task Force on Business and Jobs Recovery.
And it’s important, he said, to weigh health consequences against the health of the economy as well as people’s constitutional rights.
But, Haddad added, “if we do things without a very careful thought process behind it, we will be subject to another wave” of coronavirus infections.
Leadership clout
Newsom’s task force pulls together top corporate and labor leaders, state lawmakers as well as a former presidential candidate and a former Federal Reserve chair.
“We will use a gradual, science-based and data-driven framework to guide our reopening timing while planning our economic recovery,” Newsom said in a prepared statement. “We will bring together the public and private sectors, outside experts, organized labor, environmental groups, and activists to develop recommendations for a recovery plan that works for all Californians.”
Co-chaired by former presidential candidate and billionaire businessman Tom Steyer, the task force includes many A-list business leaders from a broad spectrum of sectors including retail, restaurants, airlines and utilities.
Members include Walt Disney Co. Executive Chairman Bob Iger, former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen, Patagonia CEO and President Rose Marcario, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Homeboy Industries founder Father Gregory Boyle, Los Angeles Times’ owner Patrick Soon-Shiong, Gap Inc. CEO Sonia Syngal, Los Angeles Clippers President Gillian Zucker and Chipotle CEO Brian Niccol.
Also included are leaders of 10 labor unions, including United Farm Workers President Teresa Romero, United Food and Commercial Workers, Local 770 President John Grant and American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees President Lee Saunders.
The four living California governors — Republicans Arnold Schwarzenegger and Pete Wilson, and Democrats Gray Davis and Jerry Brown — also are members.
“We want to make this actionable, we want to make this meaningful,” Newsom said. “This is not something where, in six months, I’m looking forward to giving you a draft or putting out a long, thick report. We want in real-time to demonstrate meaningful reforms, meaningful changes.”
A permanent mark on society
Haddad, a former Lennar homes executive who is spearheading the construction of 40,000 homes at the Orange County Great Park, near Magic Mountain and in San Francisco, learned of his appointment last Friday.
While he says he doesn’t have an agenda for reopening the state, he does bring unique insights as a survivor of the civil war in his native country of Lebanon. He sees a lot of parallels between the warfare he endured for 11 years and the current coronavirus pandemic.
“We had no food, no water, no electricity. … We had to sit home and hunker down with our family members,” he said.
From time to time, cease-fires would be announced, and some people would venture from their shelters onto the streets of Beirut. Often, those actions were premature.
“A lot of people didn’t give it enough time to see if the cease-fire would hold and went out and ended up getting killed,“ Haddad said. “I call this period of (today’s) crisis the very confused period and perhaps a very dangerous period because there’s no less risk in going out now than before. That’s a parallel.”
Just like 9/11, Haddad said, the pandemic will leave a permanent mark on society. In 2001, security officials implemented strict airport screenings that still are in effect.
The same things are likely today.
“Testing and screening, that’s going to be a part of our lives for a long time,” Haddad said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if people had to go through temperature testing before going into a building.… Those are things that will have to be part of our thought process.”
Haddad, who has been reading about the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic that killed 675,000 Americans, said cities that adhered to “non-pharmaceutical intervention” like social distancing a century ago “were faster to recover economically.” He hopes the governor’s new task force also will follow the examples from other countries that have successfully curtailed the spread of COVID-19.
“(Our) decisions will impact people’s wellbeing and the whole state,” Haddad said. “The best way to reach the right answer is to seek the opinions of a lot of people.”


mercurynews--2020-04-21--California families sue helicopter company over deadly Kobe Bryant crash

Two Orange County families who lost loved ones in the helicopter crash that also claimed the lives of Laker legend Kobe Bryant and one of his daughters have filed wrongful-death lawsuits against the company that operated the aircraft .
The suits against Long Beach-based Island Express Helicopters and it ’ s holding company were filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday on behalf of the surviving family members of Orange Coast College baseball coach John Altobelli , his wife , Keri , and their basketball-playing daughter Alyssa , as well as Mamba Academy basketball coach Christina Mauser .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of the helicopter company .
Both lawsuits were filed by attorneys with the same Los Angeles law firm and seek unspecified monetary damages .
One of the lawsuits was filed on behalf of a surviving son and daughter of the Altobellis .
The other is on behalf of the husband and three children of Mauser .
The lawsuits , which are virtually identical , do not outline what allegedly negligent actions on the part of the helicopter company were believed to have led to the crash that killed the pilot and eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ declined to comment , citing a policy not to discuss pending litigation .
The lawsuits come two months after Kobe Bryant ’ s widow , Vanessa Bryant , filed her own lawsuit against Island Express .
That lawsuit also named the dead pilot , Ara Zobayan , alleging he acted carelessly by flying in cloudy conditions and should have instead aborted the flight .
The helicopter was traveling from John Wayne Airport in Orange County to a tournament at Bryant ’ s youth facility in Thousand Oaks when it hit the foothills of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caught fire , killing everyone on board .
A preliminary review of the Jan. 26 crash by the National Transportation Safety Board found no evidence of engine failure but cited the presence of dense fog in the area that morning .
A full review of the crash could take the NTSB more than a year to complete .
Along with Kobe and Gianna Bryant , Mauser , John , Keri and Alyssa Altobelli and Zobayan , the crash also killed Sarah Chester and daughter Payton .
• Kobe Bryant , seven other finalists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fame • Towel Kobe Bryant wore during his farewell speech sold at an auction for over $ 30,000

Two Orange County families who lost loved ones in the helicopter crash that also claimed the lives of Laker legend Kobe Bryant and one of his daughters have filed wrongful-death lawsuits against the company that operated the aircraft.
The suits against Long Beach-based Island Express Helicopters and it’s holding company were filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Friday on behalf of the surviving family members of Orange Coast College baseball coach John Altobelli, his wife, Keri, and their basketball-playing daughter Alyssa, as well as Mamba Academy basketball coach Christina Mauser.
The wrongful-death lawsuits allege unspecified negligence on the part of the helicopter company. Both lawsuits were filed by attorneys with the same Los Angeles law firm and seek unspecified monetary damages.
One of the lawsuits was filed on behalf of a surviving son and daughter of the Altobellis. The other is on behalf of the husband and three children of Mauser.
The lawsuits, which are virtually identical, do not outline what allegedly negligent actions on the part of the helicopter company were believed to have led to the crash that killed the pilot and eight passengers.
A spokesman for Island Express declined to comment, citing a policy not to discuss pending litigation.
The lawsuits come two months after Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa Bryant, filed her own lawsuit against Island Express. That lawsuit also named the dead pilot, Ara Zobayan, alleging he acted carelessly by flying in cloudy conditions and should have instead aborted the flight.
The helicopter was traveling from John Wayne Airport in Orange County to a tournament at Bryant’s youth facility in Thousand Oaks when it hit the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains in Calabasas and caught fire, killing everyone on board.
A preliminary review of the Jan. 26 crash by the National Transportation Safety Board found no evidence of engine failure but cited the presence of dense fog in the area that morning. A full review of the crash could take the NTSB more than a year to complete.
Along with Kobe and Gianna Bryant, Mauser, John, Keri and Alyssa Altobelli and Zobayan, the crash also killed Sarah Chester and daughter Payton.


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Anti-viral drug remdesivir can stop coronavirus from reproducing, studies suggest

Posing as the one of the building blocks the virus needs to make copies of itself , it ’ s incorporated into the virus ’ s genome — stopping it from reproducing and essentially shutting it down in its tracks , research has found .
Developed by the Bay Area ’ s Gilead Sciences in 2014 to fight Ebola — which it didn ’ t do very well — remdesivir has been pressed into service to battle the SARS and MERS coronaviruses effectively .
And now , trials involving thousands of patients at hospitals across the nation suggest it may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well .
A dozen hospitals across Southern California have enrolled — and are recruiting — patients for the trials , including Kaiser Permanente medical centers in Anaheim , Downey , Fontana , Harbor City , Los Angeles , Moreno Valley , Ontario and Panorama City ; Mission Hospital Regional Medical Center ; Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach ; St. Joseph Hospital of Orange ; and Providence St. John ’ s Health Center in Santa Monica .
Results are expected to start rolling out next month , but early data leaked from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ investors abuzz .
Extremely sick people treated with the drug in Chicago showed rapid recovery in fever and respiratory symptoms , with nearly all patients discharged in less than a week , according to a report in STAT .
Southern Californians appear to be responding positively , too .
“ The majority of patients have done very well , ” said Deborah Fridman , director of clinical research at Hoag Hospital , which has enrolled 28 patients in the trial for severe illness and eight in the trial for moderate illness .
Researchers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and try to temper high expectations with caution .
“ Hundreds of Kaiser Permanente patients have received remdesivir as a part of these studies , ” said a spokesperson for the health care giant in California .
“ While early results are promising , Gilead has said , ‘ What we can say at this stage is that we look forward to data from ongoing studies becoming available.
’ “ At St. Joseph , the research team plans to follow up with patients about a month after their trial began to track @ @ @ @ @ @ @ soared some 30 percent in recent weeks as excitement over remdesivir builds .
But that ’ s tempered as investors ponder the long-term usefulness of a treatment , when so many vaccines are in development to prevent people from getting sick in the first place , according to MarketWatch .
But for those who get very sick now , with vaccines still a year or so away , an effective treatment could mean the difference between life and death .
In the New England Journal of Medicine on April 10 , Gilead announced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients hospitalized with severe complications of COVID-19 who were treated with remdesivir on what ’ s known as “ an individual compassionate use basis.
” That ’ s outside the scope of the national studies currently being conducted .
The majority of those patients showed clinical improvement , and no new safety signals were identified with remdesivir treatment , the analysis found .
Nearly two thirds of the patients were on mechanical ventilation , and remdesivir improved oxygen levels in 68 percent of them — 36 of the 53 .
Nearly half of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following treatment .
Clinical improvement was less frequent among patients on invasive ventilation , and among patients at least 70 years old .
“ Currently there is no proven treatment for COVID-19 .
We can not draw definitive conclusions from these data , but the observations from this group of hospitalized patients who received remdesivir are hopeful , ” said Jonathan D. Grein of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles , lead author of the journal article , in a statement .
“ We look forward to the results of controlled clinical trials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the meantime , a small study of rhesus macaques led by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases offers more reason for optimism .
The NIAID , with Gilead , looked at 12 animals infected with COVID-19 .
Half were treated with intravenous remdesivir ; the other half were not .
Animals treated with remdesivir didn ’ t show signs of respiratory disease and had reduced fluids in the lungs , the study found .
Viral loads were significantly reduced as soon as 12 hours after the first treatment , and there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lung tissue , it found .
“ Therapeutic remdesivir treatment initiated early during infection has a clear clinical benefit in SARS-CoV-2-infected rhesus macaques , ” the study concluded .
“ These data support early remdesivir treatment initiation in COVID-19 patients to prevent progression to severe pneumonia.
” While remdesivir helped prevent pneumonia , it did not reduce virus shedding by the animals .
“ This finding is of great significance for patient management , where a clinical improvement should not be interpreted as a lack of infectiousness , ” the researchers said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ macaques .
But researchers from the University of Alberta examined how remdesivir works , and concluded it ’ s highly effective in stopping the replication mechanism of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 , according to research published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry .
Most everyone will get COVID • Trump claims he will temporarily suspend immigration into US due to coronavirus fears • Video : Drone views of an empty Bay Area during coronavirus shelter-in-place order Officials caution that , even with hope in the air for a treatment or vaccine , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We ’ re seeing fewer patients in the past week , probably because California started social distancing before other states , ” said Fridman of Hoag Hospital .
“ The only reason we ’ re doing as well as we are is that people have adhered to the social distancing guidelines.They ’ re keeping themselves protected and protecting others .
“ We ’ re going to have to continue with that , ” Fridman said .
“ We don ’ t want to have a mass amount of people getting sick at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t realize that probably everybody will get COVID , sooner or later , she said .
Preliminary results of antibody testing by USC and Los Angeles County suggest that the number of people who ’ ve been infected with the virus is about 40 times larger than the number of confirmed cases .
About 4.1 percent of Los Angeles County adults have been infected with the virus , said Barbara Ferrer , director of public health for the county — which means that some 95 percent of people remain vulnerable .

The anti-viral drug remdesivir outsmarts the coronavirus.
Posing as the one of the building blocks the virus needs to make copies of itself, it’s incorporated into the virus’s genome — stopping it from reproducing and essentially shutting it down in its tracks, research has found.
Developed by the Bay Area’s Gilead Sciences in 2014 to fight Ebola — which it didn’t do very well — remdesivir has been pressed into service to battle the SARS and MERS coronaviruses effectively. And now, trials involving thousands of patients at hospitals across the nation suggest it may be a potent treatment for COVID-19 as well.
A dozen hospitals across Southern California have enrolled — and are recruiting — patients for the trials, including Kaiser Permanente medical centers in Anaheim, Downey, Fontana, Harbor City, Los Angeles, Moreno Valley, Ontario and Panorama City; Mission Hospital Regional Medical Center; Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian in Newport Beach; St. Joseph Hospital of Orange; and Providence St. John’s Health Center in Santa Monica.
Results are expected to start rolling out next month, but early data leaked from the University of Chicago have researchers and investors abuzz.
Extremely sick people treated with the drug in Chicago showed rapid recovery in fever and respiratory symptoms, with nearly all patients discharged in less than a week, according to a report in STAT.
Southern Californians appear to be responding positively, too.
“The majority of patients have done very well,” said Deborah Fridman, director of clinical research at Hoag Hospital, which has enrolled 28 patients in the trial for severe illness and eight in the trial for moderate illness.
Researchers are not allowed to release data yet, and try to temper high expectations with caution.
“Hundreds of Kaiser Permanente patients have received remdesivir as a part of these studies,” said a spokesperson for the health care giant in California.
“While early results are promising, Gilead has said, ‘What we can say at this stage is that we look forward to data from ongoing studies becoming available.’ “
At St. Joseph, the research team plans to follow up with patients about a month after their trial began to track recovery.
Gilead’s stock has soared some 30 percent in recent weeks as excitement over remdesivir builds. But that’s tempered as investors ponder the long-term usefulness of a treatment, when so many vaccines are in development to prevent people from getting sick in the first place, according to MarketWatch.
Promising science
But for those who get very sick now, with vaccines still a year or so away, an effective treatment could mean the difference between life and death.
In the New England Journal of Medicine on April 10, Gilead announced results from a cohort analysis of 53 patients hospitalized with severe complications of COVID-19 who were treated with remdesivir on what’s known as “an individual compassionate use basis.” That’s outside the scope of the national studies currently being conducted.
The majority of those patients showed clinical improvement, and no new safety signals were identified with remdesivir treatment, the analysis found.
Nearly two thirds of the patients were on mechanical ventilation, and remdesivir improved oxygen levels in 68 percent of them — 36 of the 53. Nearly half of all patients were discharged from the hospital following treatment.
Clinical improvement was less frequent among patients on invasive ventilation, and among patients at least 70 years old.
“Currently there is no proven treatment for COVID-19. We cannot draw definitive conclusions from these data, but the observations from this group of hospitalized patients who received remdesivir are hopeful,” said Jonathan D. Grein of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, lead author of the journal article, in a statement. “We look forward to the results of controlled clinical trials to potentially validate these findings.”
In the meantime, a small study of rhesus macaques led by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases offers more reason for optimism.
The NIAID, with Gilead, looked at 12 animals infected with COVID-19. Half were treated with intravenous remdesivir; the other half were not.
Animals treated with remdesivir didn’t show signs of respiratory disease and had reduced fluids in the lungs, the study found. Viral loads were significantly reduced as soon as 12 hours after the first treatment, and there was a clear reduction in damage to lung tissue, it found.
“Therapeutic remdesivir treatment initiated early during infection has a clear clinical benefit in SARS-CoV-2-infected rhesus macaques,” the study concluded. “These data support early remdesivir treatment initiation in COVID-19 patients to prevent progression to severe pneumonia.”
While remdesivir helped prevent pneumonia, it did not reduce virus shedding by the animals. “This finding is of great significance for patient management, where a clinical improvement should not be interpreted as a lack of infectiousness,” the researchers said.
Of course, people are not rhesus macaques. But researchers from the University of Alberta examined how remdesivir works, and concluded it’s highly effective in stopping the replication mechanism of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, according to research published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.
Most everyone will get COVID
Officials caution that, even with hope in the air for a treatment or vaccine, people must not get sloppy.
“We’re seeing fewer patients in the past week, probably because California started social distancing before other states,” said Fridman of Hoag Hospital. “The only reason we’re doing as well as we are is that people have adhered to the social distancing guidelines.They’re keeping themselves protected and protecting others.
“We’re going to have to continue with that,” Fridman said. “We don’t want to have a mass amount of people getting sick at the same time.”
Most people don’t realize that probably everybody will get COVID, sooner or later, she said.
Preliminary results of antibody testing by USC and Los Angeles County suggest that the number of people who’ve been infected with the virus is about 40 times larger than the number of confirmed cases.
About 4.1 percent of Los Angeles County adults have been infected with the virus, said Barbara Ferrer, director of public health for the county — which means that some 95 percent of people remain vulnerable.
Staff writer Ian Wheeler contributed to this report.
Credit line updated 4/21/2020


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Raiders draft preview: Looking to Clemson again to get off cornerback carousel?

Can the Raiders get off the cornerback carousel ?
They ’ ll be looking for a cornerback or two when the NFL draft begins Thursday night , but that ’ s nothing new .
The Raiders , with a proud tradition at the position that includes the likes of Willie Brown , Lester Hayes , Mike Haynes and Charles Woodson , have spent the last decade looking for someone who can adequately cover a receiver .
Nnamdi Asoumgha was the last Raiders cornerback to make the Pro Bowl in 2009 , and he left in free agency after the 2010 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a check of Raiders starters at cornerback ( including games that opened with a third corner at nickel ) finds 33 starters other than Asomugha .
Playing cornerback for the Raiders is no picnic , given the pass rush issues over the years , and the revolving door has included the likes of Ron Bartell and Shawntae Spencer in 2012 , MIke Jenkins and Tracy Porter in 2013 , Tarell Brown and Carlos Rogers in 2014 and so on .
In all those years , exaclty one cornerback stood out .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responded with the best season of his career , got a big contract extension , then promptly receded into mediocrity .
The Raiders are hitching their hopes to second-year corner Trayvon Mullen , who had an encouraging 10 starts as a rookie second-round draft pick out of Clemson , and lots of question marks including returnee Nevin Lawson , fourth-round pick Isaiah Johnson , slot corner Lamarcus Joyner and Keisean Nixon , an undrafted free agent last season .
Gareon Conley , a first-round pick under the Reggie McKenzie-Jack Del Rio regime , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Houston .
“ We feel like we ’ ve got a bunch of talented kids that we don ’ t know enough about yet , ” Raiders general manager Mike Mayock said .
“ Do we need to get better there ?
Yeah .
but you always have to be careful to see how the boad will fall .
I think the biggest mistakes people make is trying to reach for need .
If ’ we ’ re fortunate enough to get another corner , that ’ d be great.
” Other than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good news is the Raiders could have their pick of the litter at the position at No .
12 if they choose to go that way and make no trades .
The Raiders also pick at No .
19 .
The bad news is some draft analysts believe cornerback to be one of the weakest positions in the draft and that there may not be anyone worthy of being taken that high .
In that case , the Raiders could simply look to a place they trust , and Clemson has a first-round @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Raiders took Clelin Ferrell , Mullen and Hunter Renfrow in last year ’ s draft and are happy with their focus , preparation and potential .
Terrell talked with the Raiders at the NFL scouting combine , said he speaks with Mullen often and came away with a good feeling about the organization .
“ It was a great meeting , ” Terrell said .
“ Of course , they have a couple of our former ( Clemson ) players and everything was good .
We went over a lot of plays and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s how cornerback shakes out heading in to the first round of the NFL draft Thursday : The big three : Jeff Okudah ( Ohio State ) , C.J .
Henderson ( Florida ) , A.J .
Terrell ( Clemson ) .
Okudah ( 6-1 , 205 ) is considered a cut above by most everyone .
He could go as high as No .
3 and is unlikely to fall to No .
10 .
Henderson ( 6-1 , 204 ) started for three years and didn ’ t have an interception @ @ @ @ @ @ @ either .
He led the Gators with 11 passes defensed .
Terrell had an interception return for a touchdown in the national champonship game following the 2019 season but struggled in last year ’ s title game against LSU .
Second wave : Jeff Gladney ( TCU ) .
Gladney ( 5-10 , 191 ) doesn ’ t have the protype length but is the most experienced quality starter in the draft as a four-year starter in a press heavy scheme .
Others include Trevyon Diggs ( Alabama ) , Jaylon Johnson ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Keep an eye on : Damon Arnette ( Ohio State ) .
Arnette ( 5-11 , 195 ) is a former high school teammate of Nick Bosa who was overshadowed by Okudah on the other side with the Buckeyes .
Arnette ’ s talent has not been in question , especially n the areas of toughness and run support .
Labeled as occasionally immature , Arnette benefitted greatly from returning to play his senior year .
• Raiders draft preview : On the lookout for bargains on defensive line • On this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and little brother , Derek , make NFL Draft debut • Raiders mailbag : Ravens offer potential to get back into second round Already on the roster : *Trayvon Mullen , *Nevin Lawson , Lamarcus Joyner ( slot ) , Isaiah Johnson , Keisean Nixon , Nick Nelson , Dylan Mabin , D.J .
Killings , Jordan Brown , Ken Crawley .
Last five drafts : Trayvon Mullen , Clemson ( 2/40 , 2019 ) , Isaiah Johnson , Houston ( 4/129 in 2019 ) , Nick Nelson , Wisconsin ( 4/110 in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ State ( 1/24 in 2017 ) , Dexter McDonald , Kansas ( 7/242 in 2015 ) .
Quotable : ” I ’ d definitely rank myself No .
1 .
I expect everyone else to rank themselves the same .
I highly respect the rest of the corners .
What separates me is that I ’ m a competitor and I ’ m very smart , ” Florida cornerback C.J .
Henderson .

Can the Raiders get off the cornerback carousel?
They’ll be looking for a cornerback or two when the NFL draft begins Thursday night, but that’s nothing new. The Raiders, with a proud tradition at the position that includes the likes of Willie Brown, Lester Hayes, Mike Haynes and Charles Woodson, have spent the last decade looking for someone who can adequately cover a receiver.
Nnamdi Asoumgha was the last Raiders cornerback to make the Pro Bowl in 2009, and he left in free agency after the 2010 season. Since that Pro Bowl season, a check of Raiders starters at cornerback (including games that opened with a third corner at nickel) finds 33 starters other than Asomugha.
Playing cornerback for the Raiders is no picnic, given the pass rush issues over the years, and the revolving door has included the likes of Ron Bartell and Shawntae Spencer in 2012, MIke Jenkins and Tracy Porter in 2013, Tarell Brown and Carlos Rogers in 2014 and so on.
In all those years, exaclty one cornerback stood out. A waiver claim in 2015, David Amerson responded with the best season of his career, got a big contract extension, then promptly receded into mediocrity.
The Raiders are hitching their hopes to second-year corner Trayvon Mullen, who had an encouraging 10 starts as a rookie second-round draft pick out of Clemson, and lots of question marks including returnee Nevin Lawson, fourth-round pick Isaiah Johnson, slot corner Lamarcus Joyner and Keisean Nixon, an undrafted free agent last season. Gareon Conley, a first-round pick under the Reggie McKenzie-Jack Del Rio regime, was sent packing in-season last year to Houston.
“We feel like we’ve got a bunch of talented kids that we don’t know enough about yet,” Raiders general manager Mike Mayock said. “Do we need to get better there? Yeah. but you always have to be careful to see how the boad will fall. I think the biggest mistakes people make is trying to reach for need. If’ we’re fortunate enough to get another corner, that’d be great.”
It’s actually mandatory.
Other than Ohio State corner Jeff Okudah, the good news is the Raiders could have their pick of the litter at the position at No. 12 if they choose to go that way and make no trades. The Raiders also pick at No. 19. The bad news is some draft analysts believe cornerback to be one of the weakest positions in the draft and that there may not be anyone worthy of being taken that high.
In that case, the Raiders could simply look to a place they trust, and Clemson has a first-round possibility in A.J. Terrell. The Raiders took Clelin Ferrell, Mullen and Hunter Renfrow in last year’s draft and are happy with their focus, preparation and potential.
Terrell talked with the Raiders at the NFL scouting combine, said he speaks with Mullen often and came away with a good feeling about the organization.
“It was a great meeting,” Terrell said. “Of course, they have a couple of our former (Clemson) players and everything was good. We went over a lot of plays and we talked a lot.”
Here’s how cornerback shakes out heading in to the first round of the NFL draft Thursday:
1) Corners who started at least one game for #Raiders since Asomugha's last Pro Bowl:
Stanford Routt
Lito Sheppard
Michael Huff
Chris Johnson
Joe Porter
Chimdi Chekwa
Joselio Hanson
Pat Lee
Brandian Ross
Phillip Adams
Ron Bartell
Shawntae Spencer
Mike Jenkins
Tracy Porter
(cont) — Jerry McDonald (@Jerrymcd) April 21, 2020
2) (cont) Corners who started at least one game for #Raiders since Asomugha's last Pro Bowl:
DJ Hayden
Tarell Brown
Carlos Rogers
Keith McGill
Chance Casey
David Amerson
Neiko Thorpe
TJ Carrie
Sean Smith
Dexter McDonald
Rashaan Melvin
Gareon Conley
Daryl Worley
Leon Hall
(cont) — Jerry McDonald (@Jerrymcd) April 21, 2020
3) (cont.) Corners who started at least one game for #Raiders since Asomugha's last Pro Bowl:
Nick Nelson
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
Trayvon Mullen
Lamarcus Joyner
Nevin Lawson That's 33 corners who started at least once (includes opening in nickel) since 2010. — Jerry McDonald (@Jerrymcd) April 21, 2020
The big three: Jeff Okudah (Ohio State), C.J. Henderson (Florida), A.J. Terrell (Clemson). Okudah (6-1, 205) is considered a cut above by most everyone. He could go as high as No. 3 and is unlikely to fall to No. 10. Henderson (6-1, 204) started for three years and didn’t have an interception as a junior but was rarely tested either. He led the Gators with 11 passes defensed. Terrell had an interception return for a touchdown in the national champonship game following the 2019 season but struggled in last year’s title game against LSU.
Second wave: Jeff Gladney (TCU). Gladney (5-10, 191) doesn’t have the protype length but is the most experienced quality starter in the draft as a four-year starter in a press heavy scheme. Others include Trevyon Diggs (Alabama), Jaylon Johnson (Utah), Kristian Fulton (LSU)
Keep an eye on: Damon Arnette (Ohio State). Arnette (5-11, 195) is a former high school teammate of Nick Bosa who was overshadowed by Okudah on the other side with the Buckeyes. Arnette’s talent has not been in question, especially n the areas of toughness and run support. Labeled as occasionally immature, Arnette benefitted greatly from returning to play his senior year.
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Last five drafts: Trayvon Mullen, Clemson (2/40, 2019), Isaiah Johnson, Houston (4/129 in 2019), Nick Nelson, Wisconsin (4/110 in 2018), Gareon Conley, Ohio State (1/24 in 2017), Dexter McDonald, Kansas (7/242 in 2015).
Quotable :” I’d definitely rank myself No. 1. I expect everyone else to rank themselves the same. I highly respect the rest of the corners. What separates me is that I’m a competitor and I’m very smart,” Florida cornerback C.J. Henderson.
*-Projected starters


mercurynews--2020-04-21--TV tonight: ‘Let’s Go Crazy: The Grammy Salute to Prince’

In “ Let ’ s Go Crazy : The Grammy Salute to Prince ” ( 9 p.m. Tuesday , CBS ) , Maya Rudolph hosts , and also performs as an eclectic group of artists unite for a tribute concert that celebrates the pop superstar on the four-year anniversary of his passing at the age of 57 .
Recorded in late January at the Los Angeles Convention Center , the two-hour special has musicians belting out hits from Prince ’ s renown catalog .
The all-star lineup of performers includes Beck , Gary Clark Jr. , Common , Earth , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Vallejo native H.E.R.
, Juanes , John Legend , Chris Martin , Morris Day and The Time , Sheila E. , St. Vincent , Mavis Staples , Miguel , the Revolution , and Usher .
Rudolph , who emcees the event , also performs with her Prince cover band called Princess .
Revolution drummer Bobby Z believes our shelter-in-place era brought on by the coronavirus pandemic is a fitting time for the special .
Just when television is filled with low-budget remote performances from artists playing in their homes , leave it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spectacle into America ’ s living rooms .
“ It ’ s the right artists , it ’ s the right time and the right medium .
People need this at this moment , ” he told the Minneapolis Star Tribune .
“ This music can help get you through this day , ” said Bobby Z .
“ Leave it to Prince to have an old-fashioned big-time TV show when it ’ s going to be hard to do these kind of things for a long time .
He pulled it off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ national television when nobody else can get on .
I ’ ve been watching him do that my whole life.
” “ Prince .
The Purple One .
His Royal Badness — regardless of how you identify him , he is indisputably one of the greatest musical virtuosos of all time , ” said Deborah Dugan , President/CEO of the Recording Academy .
“ With his subversive attitude and commanding nature , he straddled musical genres and created electrifying music that was bursting with character .
He continues to serve as an inspirational @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and we are so honored to pay tribute to his legacy.
” In 2004 Prince was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and received the Icon Award at the 2013 Billboard Awards .
Releasing nearly 40 studio albums , he has solidified his mark as one of the most influential artists of all time .

Call it a case of purple reign.
In “Let’s Go Crazy: The Grammy Salute to Prince” (9 p.m. Tuesday, CBS), Maya Rudolph hosts, and also performs as an eclectic group of artists unite for a tribute concert that celebrates the pop superstar on the four-year anniversary of his passing at the age of 57.
Recorded in late January at the Los Angeles Convention Center, the two-hour special has musicians belting out hits from Prince’s renown catalog. The all-star lineup of performers includes Beck, Gary Clark Jr., Common, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Foo Fighters, Vallejo native H.E.R., Juanes, John Legend, Chris Martin, Morris Day and The Time, Sheila E., St. Vincent, Mavis Staples, Miguel, the Revolution, and Usher.
Also appearing: FKA Twigs, Fred Armisen, Jimmy Jam, Misty Copeland and Naomi Campbell.
Rudolph, who emcees the event, also performs with her Prince cover band called Princess.
Revolution drummer Bobby Z believes our shelter-in-place era brought on by the coronavirus pandemic is a fitting time for the special. Just when television is filled with low-budget remote performances from artists playing in their homes, leave it to Prince to bring a fully staged spectacle into America’s living rooms.
“It’s the right artists, it’s the right time and the right medium. People need this at this moment,” he told the Minneapolis Star Tribune. “This music can help get you through this day,” said Bobby Z. “Leave it to Prince to have an old-fashioned big-time TV show when it’s going to be hard to do these kind of things for a long time. He pulled it off again: Being the biggest thing on national television when nobody else can get on. I’ve been watching him do that my whole life.”
“Prince. The Purple One. His Royal Badness — regardless of how you identify him, he is indisputably one of the greatest musical virtuosos of all time,” said Deborah Dugan, President/CEO of the Recording Academy. “With his subversive attitude and commanding nature, he straddled musical genres and created electrifying music that was bursting with character. He continues to serve as an inspirational icon for artists and fans worldwide, and we are so honored to pay tribute to his legacy.”
In 2004 Prince was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and received the Icon Award at the 2013 Billboard Awards. Releasing nearly 40 studio albums, he has solidified his mark as one of the most influential artists of all time.


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Horoscopes April 21, 2020: Tony Romo and andie MacDowell share advice.

Happy Birthday : A simpler lifestyle will put an end to chaos , limitations and discord .
Channel your energy into projects that won ’ t lead to the poorhouse .
Think big , but when the time comes to take action , do so for the least amount of money , time and energy , and it will encourage greater equality , balance and happiness in your life as the year unfolds .
Your numbers are 9 , 17 , 22 , 25 , 39 , 43 , 47 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Emotions will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Don ’ t overreact , or you will end up looking bad .
Take a step back , assess the situation and consider how to use your strengths to overcome controversy and interference .
3 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Confusion will set in if you have too many choices .
Don ’ t take on more than you can handle or give in to pressure someone puts on you .
Carefully go over every detail to avoid making an impulsive decision that leads to regret .
3 stars @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Don ’ t settle for anything less than your best .
Refuse to let what others do or say cause grief or take away from what you are trying to accomplish .
Be true to your beliefs , and set reasonable standards .
4 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Take a unique approach to work or the way you present yourself to others .
Differentiating yourself from the crowd will encourage others to take a second look , offer noteworthy comments and help you hone what you have to offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 22 ) : Navigate your way through situations carefully .
Don ’ t feel you have to follow the crowd or get involved in something that doesn ’ t suit your needs .
Concentrate on what makes you happy , and follow your heart when it comes to romance .
5 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Don ’ t take a risk or trust someone with your money , possessions or anything that might affect your reputation .
A change someone proposes will turn in to an elaborate and costly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health and well-being .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Step into the spotlight .
Share your thoughts , gather information and consider the benefits mentally , physically and emotionally .
Don ’ t limit what you can do because someone doesn ’ t agree with you .
Follow your heart and intuition .
Choose what makes you happy .
3 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Do something that you find stimulating .
Learn something new or take on a challenge that requires creativity .
This will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction .
Say no to those asking for too much .
Put your needs first .
3 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Make personal growth and happiness your goals .
A healthier routine and proper diet will give you the energy to strive for something new and exciting .
Expand your interests as well as your knowledge , and you ’ ll get positive results .
Romance is favored .
5 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Be prepared to combat chaos .
Not everyone will see things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you .
If it ’ s a change you want to make , be sure to do your homework before you move forward .
Don ’ t let emotions interfere with an important decision .
2 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Home and family should be your focus .
The way you use your space and how you deal with the people closest to you will determine how much you achieve .
Personal improvement will boost your confidence , and romance will brighten your day .
4 stars PISCES ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ may tempt you , but before you make a move , consider the fallout .
It ’ s best to get the approval of those affected by the decisions you make before you proceed .
Honesty and integrity will be in your best interest .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are intense , sensitive and passionate .
You are creative and outspoken .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Tony Romo, 40; Rob Riggle, 50; Andie MacDowell, 62; Iggy Pop, 73.
Happy Birthday: A simpler lifestyle will put an end to chaos, limitations and discord. Channel your energy into projects that won’t lead to the poorhouse. Think big, but when the time comes to take action, do so for the least amount of money, time and energy, and it will encourage greater equality, balance and happiness in your life as the year unfolds. Your numbers are 9, 17, 22, 25, 39, 43, 47.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Emotions will surface when dealing with peers and partners. Don’t overreact, or you will end up looking bad. Take a step back, assess the situation and consider how to use your strengths to overcome controversy and interference. 3 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Confusion will set in if you have too many choices. Don’t take on more than you can handle or give in to pressure someone puts on you. Carefully go over every detail to avoid making an impulsive decision that leads to regret. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Don’t settle for anything less than your best. Refuse to let what others do or say cause grief or take away from what you are trying to accomplish. Be true to your beliefs, and set reasonable standards. 4 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take a unique approach to work or the way you present yourself to others. Differentiating yourself from the crowd will encourage others to take a second look, offer noteworthy comments and help you hone what you have to offer. 2 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Navigate your way through situations carefully. Don’t feel you have to follow the crowd or get involved in something that doesn’t suit your needs. Concentrate on what makes you happy, and follow your heart when it comes to romance. 5 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Don’t take a risk or trust someone with your money, possessions or anything that might affect your reputation. A change someone proposes will turn in to an elaborate and costly venture. Take better care of your health and well-being. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Step into the spotlight. Share your thoughts, gather information and consider the benefits mentally, physically and emotionally. Don’t limit what you can do because someone doesn’t agree with you. Follow your heart and intuition. Choose what makes you happy. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Do something that you find stimulating. Learn something new or take on a challenge that requires creativity. This will change your perspective as well as your direction. Say no to those asking for too much. Put your needs first. 3 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Make personal growth and happiness your goals. A healthier routine and proper diet will give you the energy to strive for something new and exciting. Expand your interests as well as your knowledge, and you’ll get positive results. Romance is favored. 5 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Be prepared to combat chaos. Not everyone will see things your way or be willing to accommodate you. If it’s a change you want to make, be sure to do your homework before you move forward. Don’t let emotions interfere with an important decision. 2 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Home and family should be your focus. The way you use your space and how you deal with the people closest to you will determine how much you achieve. Personal improvement will boost your confidence, and romance will brighten your day. 4 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A change may tempt you, but before you make a move, consider the fallout. It’s best to get the approval of those affected by the decisions you make before you proceed. Honesty and integrity will be in your best interest. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are intense, sensitive and passionate. You are creative and outspoken.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Bridge: April 21, 2020

Bridge: April 21, 2020

“ I ’ m reaching the age , ” a senior player at my club told me , “ where ‘ getting lucky ’ means walking into a room and remembering why I ’ m there .
Today I blew an easy defense because I lost my focus.
” My friend was East , and West led the deuce of diamonds against four hearts .
( North ’ s “ false preference ” of three spades was proper ; South rebid his hearts to show five , reaching his 5-3 fit . )
“ Dummy played low , ” my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the king and returned … the jack of trumps.
” “ Declarer took the king , cashed the queen of diamonds and led to the ace of trumps .
He threw his club loser on the ace of diamonds , lost a spade finesse to West ’ s king and conceded one trump .
Making four .
My partner was justifiably upset with me.
” South ’ s bidding and West ’ s opening lead marked South ’ s pattern as 5-5-2-1 , and South had a diamond honor since West would have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trick Two , East must cash his ace of clubs .
He sets up dummy ’ s king , but if West has a spade trick , he will still get it .
You hold : S J 10 H A 9 3 D A 10 4 C K J 8 6 3 .
Your partner opens one spade , you respond two clubs and he next bids two hearts .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : In “ Standard ” methods , bid 3NT or perhaps stall with a “ fourth-suit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ style in which your two clubs was forcing to game would be helpful here : You could bid 2NT , forcing , and let partner continue to describe his hand .
That style has both advantages and drawbacks .

“I’m reaching the age,” a senior player at my club told me, “where ‘getting lucky’ means walking into a room and remembering why I’m there. Today I blew an easy defense because I lost my focus.”
My friend was East, and West led the deuce of diamonds against four hearts. (North’s “false preference” of three spades was proper; South rebid his hearts to show five, reaching his 5-3 fit.)
“Dummy played low,” my friend said, “and I took the king and returned … the jack of trumps.”
MAKING FOUR
“Declarer took the king, cashed the queen of diamonds and led to the ace of trumps. He threw his club loser on the ace of diamonds, lost a spade finesse to West’s king and conceded one trump. Making four. My partner was justifiably upset with me.”
South’s bidding and West’s opening lead marked South’s pattern as 5-5-2-1, and South had a diamond honor since West would have led the queen from Q-J-x-x. At Trick Two, East must cash his ace of clubs. He sets up dummy’s king, but if West has a spade trick, he will still get it.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S J 10 H A 9 3 D A 10 4 C K J 8 6 3. Your partner opens one spade, you respond two clubs and he next bids two hearts. What do you say?
ANSWER: In “Standard” methods, bid 3NT or perhaps stall with a “fourth-suit” bid of three diamonds. A style in which your two clubs was forcing to game would be helpful here: You could bid 2NT, forcing, and let partner continue to describe his hand. That style has both advantages and drawbacks.
North dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S J 10
H A 9 3
D A 10 4
C K J 8 6 3
WEST
S K 4 3
H Q 6 4
D J 7 6 2
C 7 5 2
EAST
S 7 5 2
H J 10
D K 8 5 3
C A Q 10 9
SOUTH
S A Q 9 8 6
H K 8 7 5 2
D Q 9
C 4
North East South West
1 C Pass 1 S Pass
1 NT Pass 3 H Pass
3 S Pass 4 H All Pass
Opening lead — D 2
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-04-21--Word Game: April 21, 2020

Word Game: April 21, 2020

TODAY ’ S WORD — COTERIE Can you find 23 or more words in COTERIE ?
The list will be @ @ @ @ @ the Word Game book , visit WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 @ @ @ @ @ .
Words must be of four or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire @ @ @ @ @ of “ s , ” such as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” @ @ @ @ @ .
Additional words made by adding a “ d ” or an “ s ” @ @ @ @ @ For example , if “ bake ” is used , “ baked ” or “ @ @ @ @ @ , but “ bake ” and “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper @ @ @ @ @ or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — COTERIE Can you find 23 or more words in COTERIE?
The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — MUNDANE made mane manned mead mean mend
menu unmade unnamed name nude dame damn dean dune amen amend
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--2020-04-21--Ask Amy: Our personal crisis should have taken precedence over her coronavirus fear

DEAR AMY : My wife and I have been friends with “ Sandy ” and “ Keith ” for years .
We truly consider them to be family .
A few weeks ago , my wife and I had a miscarriage , which deeply impacted my faith .
My wife was upset and confused by my reaction and wanted to talk with our closest friends about it .
Sandy and Keith said that we could come to their house to meet with them .
When we were getting ready to leave , they called and said that Sandy wouldn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wasn ’ t feeling well .
She had flu symptoms and was worried she might have COVID-19 .
My wife really wanted Sandy ’ s guidance .
We reiterated how important our issue was .
We understood that Sandy was sick , but we were willing to get sick ourselves in order to talk with them both .
• Ask Amy : They want us to be friends , but she terrifies me • Ask Amy : If I ask him to wash his hands , he calls me bitchy • Ask Amy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what her boyfriend is planning ?
• Ask Amy : I want to scream at these careless neighbor children • Ask Amy : I don ’ t need a stimulus check .
What should I do with it ?
Sandy wouldn ’ t budge , and we ended up seeking help elsewhere .
Over the course of the following week my wife texted Sandy that we were offended that she was not willing to meet with us .
Sandy insisted that she felt “ burned out ” by help she gave to others @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We felt that the deep need we had should override her other concerns .
Sandy said that sometimes adults need to step away for their own mental health .
She hasn ’ t apologized .
Since they weren ’ t there for us when we needed them the most , we have been re-considering their place in our life .
Are we unreasonable to expect Sandy to meet with us during our personal emergency ?
Shouldn ’ t we expect family to be there when we are experiencing personal crisis ?
DEAR TOO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ) had me until you stated that you were “ willing to get sick , yourselves ” in order to share your burden with “ Sandy ” and “ Keith ” in person .
Your willingness to expose yourselves ( and others ) to a potentially deadly illness in order to receive exactly what you were looking for — and on your terms — is deeply selfish .
Can you not receive comfort via phone , text , email , or video conferencing ?
Miscarriage can be a truly shattering , tragic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
But in many ways , it is also a deeply personal event .
Your friends might have experienced a miscarriage themselves , and they might not have been emotionally equipped to handle your personal demands , on your timetable , and according to your specifications .
Or you two might be needy , emotional vampires — who take too much and don ’ t give back enough .
My larger point is that you simply never know what burdens others are quietly carrying .
When people who love you say they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should respect their choice , even if you feel let down .
You should understand that they may also be hurting , or flawed , and you should work harder to understand them .
And yes , you should reconsider their primary place in your lives .
They deserve a break .
DEAR AMY : Our daughter was employed by a family friend .
We were very grateful to this friend for giving her a job .
Unfortunately , our family friend turned out to be a miserable boss .
This was born @ @ @ @ @ @ @ daughter .
My daughter succeeded at her job despite this and was offered several promotions and raises over the years that she worked there .
I ’ m sorry to say that we never talked about any of this to the friend .
It felt to us like the elephant in the room , but we could never figure out what to say .
Not surprisingly , our personal relationship cooled a lot .
Our daughter has moved on to a new job and we frequently have social events that include our old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ solicitous of our friendship , and we are open to these efforts .
Should we try to talk it out ?
If so , what do we say ?
Does everything always have to be resolved , or are we allowed to just put some things behind us ?
DEAR PUZZLED : You are allowed to put this behind you .
Your daughter seems to be thriving , your friend is reaching out , this isn ’ t actually your business to start with , and so – yes – move on .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ highly suspected her husband had “ Aspergers.
” You encouraged her to help him to get a diagnosis .
While I appreciate your compassion and support , “ Aspergers ” is no longer considered correct .
In the future , please refer to “ Autism Spectrum Disorder.
” DEAR ADVOCATE : Several readers offered this correction .
Thank you .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @

DEAR AMY: My wife and I have been friends with “Sandy” and “Keith” for years. We truly consider them to be family.
A few weeks ago, my wife and I had a miscarriage, which deeply impacted my faith. My wife was upset and confused by my reaction and wanted to talk with our closest friends about it.
Sandy and Keith said that we could come to their house to meet with them. When we were getting ready to leave, they called and said that Sandy wouldn’t be able to talk because she wasn’t feeling well. She had flu symptoms and was worried she might have COVID-19.
My wife really wanted Sandy’s guidance. We reiterated how important our issue was. We understood that Sandy was sick, but we were willing to get sick ourselves in order to talk with them both.
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Over the course of the following week my wife texted Sandy that we were offended that she was not willing to meet with us. Sandy insisted that she felt “burned out” by help she gave to others, in addition to being sick. We felt that the deep need we had should override her other concerns.
Sandy said that sometimes adults need to step away for their own mental health. She hasn’t apologized. Since they weren’t there for us when we needed them the most, we have been re-considering their place in our life.
Are we unreasonable to expect Sandy to meet with us during our personal emergency? Shouldn’t we expect family to be there when we are experiencing personal crisis?
Too Close?
DEAR TOO CLOSE: Well, you (sort of) had me until you stated that you were “willing to get sick, yourselves” in order to share your burden with “Sandy” and “Keith” in person.
Your willingness to expose yourselves (and others) to a potentially deadly illness in order to receive exactly what you were looking for — and on your terms — is deeply selfish. Can you not receive comfort via phone, text, email, or video conferencing?
Miscarriage can be a truly shattering, tragic event (I have been through it). But in many ways, it is also a deeply personal event. Your friends might have experienced a miscarriage themselves, and they might not have been emotionally equipped to handle your personal demands, on your timetable, and according to your specifications. Or you two might be needy, emotional vampires — who take too much and don’t give back enough.
My larger point is that you simply never know what burdens others are quietly carrying. When people who love you say they can’t help you, you should respect their choice, even if you feel let down. You should understand that they may also be hurting, or flawed, and you should work harder to understand them.
And yes, you should reconsider their primary place in your lives. They deserve a break.
DEAR AMY: Our daughter was employed by a family friend. We were very grateful to this friend for giving her a job. Unfortunately, our family friend turned out to be a miserable boss. This was born out by several co-workers, and our daughter.
My daughter succeeded at her job despite this and was offered several promotions and raises over the years that she worked there.
I’m sorry to say that we never talked about any of this to the friend. It felt to us like the elephant in the room, but we could never figure out what to say. Not surprisingly, our personal relationship cooled a lot.
Our daughter has moved on to a new job and we frequently have social events that include our old friend.
This friend has been more solicitous of our friendship, and we are open to these efforts. Should we try to talk it out? If so, what do we say?
Does everything always have to be resolved, or are we allowed to just put some things behind us?
Puzzled Parents
DEAR PUZZLED: You are allowed to put this behind you. Your daughter seems to be thriving, your friend is reaching out, this isn’t actually your business to start with, and so – yes – move on.
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR AMY: “Wondering Wife” highly suspected her husband had “Aspergers.” You encouraged her to help him to get a diagnosis.
While I appreciate your compassion and support, “Aspergers” is no longer considered correct. In the future, please refer to “Autism Spectrum Disorder.”
Autism Advocate
DEAR ADVOCATE: Several readers offered this correction. Thank you.
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.