mercurynews--2020-01-28--Largest e-scooter company in San Jose knows when you’re illegally riding on sidewalks

As officials across the country try to stop electric scooter riders from swerving in between pedestrians on busy sidewalks , one company has come up with what it thinks could be the answer .
Lime — the scooter company with the largest fleet in San Jose — announced Tuesday that it had developed first-of-its-kind technology to detect when riders are traveling on a sidewalk rather than on a street or in a bike lane .
Lime ’ s technology relies on the basis that sidewalks , unlike roads , consist of evenly-spaced grooves and therefore vibrate differently than when a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The company ’ s software programmed in each scooter uses acceleration and speed data to then detect when a scooter is on a sidewalk with up to 95 percent confidence .
The e-scooter company ’ s announcement was the result of a collaboration with San Jose , which is allowing scooter companies to test out sidewalk detection technology in its downtown core .
“ We want to not only partner with the city on preventing this but also helping provide them with data to build better infrastructure because that ’ s the number @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sidewalk is that they don ’ t feel safe on the street , ” said EV Ellington , Lime ’ s general manager of Northern California and Utah .
Unlike cities that have outright bans or restrictions on the number of scooters or companies authorized to operate in a city , San Jose leaders have taken a different approach .
In December 2018 , the San Jose City Council passed legislation that required electric scooter companies that want to deploy their scooters in San Jose to get a permit from the city , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 2,500 and submit another $ 124 per device each year .
The companies are also required to obtain insurance and protect the city from legal claims .
Since San Jose launched its scooter permit program in February 2019 , the city has issued permits to six companies for a total of 5,750 e-scooters — 2,300 of which belong to Lime .
“ I believe that we can work with technology companies to find ways to improve quality of life , improve safety , improve equity , ” San Jose Mayor Liccardo said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is something that we will need in our transportation toolbox , so let ’ s find a way to integrate it into our city and make sure it ’ s safe , rather than simply declaring war on it.
” As part of the new requirement , the council tasked city staff to work with the permitted companies to figure out a way to keep scooters off of sidewalks — a trend that is very common but actually illegal under California state law — by July of 2019 .
Yet seven months after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ company to make any moves toward trying to change the habits of riders .
John Ristow , director of the city ’ s department of transportation , said that the companies were always on board but that the 7-month delay was due to “ bureaucratic and administrative ” hangups .
“ Unfortunately we had some difficulties , just as new permitting goes and it took us a little longer to get all of the companies under permits and contracts , ” Ristow said Tuesday .
Under the technology initiative launched by Lime , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their trip on what the company detects are sidewalks will receive a notification that informs them of the illegal activity .
The city and e-scooter company do not currently have plans to penalize riders and instead plan to start by focusing on education .
“ If we get to a place where the technology is good enough for us to feel as though it ’ s reliable to issue a ticket and we think it ’ s a good idea , then we ’ ll certainly do it , ” Liccardo said Tuesday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case today , frankly , that every street is the safer place to riding a scooter or a bike either.
” As part of the permit requirements , Lime will share the data it collects on sidewalk ridership with the city on a monthly basis .
City staff plan to meet with the other five permitted scooter companies — Lyft , Bird , Spin , Razor and Gruv — within the coming weeks to review their technology detection plans .

As officials across the country try to stop electric scooter riders from swerving in between pedestrians on busy sidewalks, one company has come up with what it thinks could be the answer.
Lime — the scooter company with the largest fleet in San Jose — announced Tuesday that it had developed first-of-its-kind technology to detect when riders are traveling on a sidewalk rather than on a street or in a bike lane.
Lime’s technology relies on the basis that sidewalks, unlike roads, consist of evenly-spaced grooves and therefore vibrate differently than when a rider is traveling on a roadway. The company’s software programmed in each scooter uses acceleration and speed data to then detect when a scooter is on a sidewalk with up to 95 percent confidence.
The e-scooter company’s announcement was the result of a collaboration with San Jose, which is allowing scooter companies to test out sidewalk detection technology in its downtown core.
“We want to not only partner with the city on preventing this but also helping provide them with data to build better infrastructure because that’s the number one reason that people ride on the sidewalk is that they don’t feel safe on the street,” said EV Ellington, Lime’s general manager of Northern California and Utah.
Unlike cities that have outright bans or restrictions on the number of scooters or companies authorized to operate in a city, San Jose leaders have taken a different approach.
In December 2018, the San Jose City Council passed legislation that required electric scooter companies that want to deploy their scooters in San Jose to get a permit from the city, pay an annual permit application fee of $2,500 and submit another $124 per device each year. The companies are also required to obtain insurance and protect the city from legal claims.
Since San Jose launched its scooter permit program in February 2019, the city has issued permits to six companies for a total of 5,750 e-scooters — 2,300 of which belong to Lime.
“I believe that we can work with technology companies to find ways to improve quality of life, improve safety, improve equity,” San Jose Mayor Liccardo said Tuesday. “We know that this is something that we will need in our transportation toolbox, so let’s find a way to integrate it into our city and make sure it’s safe, rather than simply declaring war on it.”
As part of the new requirement, the council tasked city staff to work with the permitted companies to figure out a way to keep scooters off of sidewalks — a trend that is very common but actually illegal under California state law — by July of 2019.
Yet seven months after that deadline, Lime is the first company to make any moves toward trying to change the habits of riders.
John Ristow, director of the city’s department of transportation, said that the companies were always on board but that the 7-month delay was due to “bureaucratic and administrative” hangups.
“Unfortunately we had some difficulties, just as new permitting goes and it took us a little longer to get all of the companies under permits and contracts,” Ristow said Tuesday.
Under the technology initiative launched by Lime, riders who spend a significant chunk of their trip on what the company detects are sidewalks will receive a notification that informs them of the illegal activity. The city and e-scooter company do not currently have plans to penalize riders and instead plan to start by focusing on education.
“If we get to a place where the technology is good enough for us to feel as though it’s reliable to issue a ticket and we think it’s a good idea, then we’ll certainly do it,” Liccardo said Tuesday. “But it’s not the case today, frankly, that every street is the safer place to riding a scooter or a bike either.”
As part of the permit requirements, Lime will share the data it collects on sidewalk ridership with the city on a monthly basis. City staff plan to meet with the other five permitted scooter companies — Lyft, Bird, Spin, Razor and Gruv — within the coming weeks to review their technology detection plans.


mercurynews--2020-01-28--iPhone rebound drives Apple to record earnings quarter

It appears iPhone sales really are on the mend .
Apple posted what it called “ all-time record ” earnings @ @ @ @ @ December — with quarterly revenue of $ 91.8 billion , up 9 % from the @ @ @ @ @ well above Wall Street analysts ’ $ 88.5 billion projection .
The record performance was @ @ @ @ @ during the crucial holiday season , CEO Tim Cook said in the company ’ s @ @ @ @ @ sales grew nearly 8 % to $ 56 billion in the three months , an @ @ @ @ @ ’ s slumping demand , which resulted in declining iPhone sales in each quarter of @ @ @ @ @ services and wearables segments of Apple ’ s business , which many herald as the @ @ @ @ @ also contributed to the successful quarter .
Apple ’ s stock rose as much as @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday , after already having closed the day up 2.8 % .

By Clare Duffy | CNN
It appears iPhone sales really are on the mend.
Apple posted what it called “all-time record” earnings for the three months ending December — with quarterly revenue of $91.8 billion, up 9% from the same period last year and well above Wall Street analysts’ $88.5 billion projection.
The record performance was driven by strong iPhone sales during the crucial holiday season, CEO Tim Cook said in the company’s earnings release Tuesday. iPhone sales grew nearly 8% to $56 billion in the three months, an important comeback after last year’s slumping demand, which resulted in declining iPhone sales in each quarter of 2019.
Sales for the services and wearables segments of Apple’s business, which many herald as the future of the company, also contributed to the successful quarter.
Apple’s stock rose as much as 2.7% in after-hours trading Tuesday, after already having closed the day up 2.8%.


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Letter: Trump’s move against safe abortion must be reversed

For three years , Trump ’ s global gag rule has threatened countless lives around the world .
It ’ s been three years since Trump signed an executive order reinstating and expanding the global gag rule , making it even harder for people in developing countries to access crucial reproductive health care .
Under his abhorrent policy , health care providers are barred from receiving desperately needed assistance if they so much as mention the word abortion .
Trump ’ s chokehold on global health aid has closed clinics and cut off access to birth control and safe abortion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , up to 31,000 women die from unsafe abortion , nearly all in developing countries .
It ’ s time for Congress to pass the Global Health , Empowerment and Rights ( HER ) Act to permanently repeal the global gag rule .
• Letter : Oakland : Give landlords more control to get more rentals • Letter : Trump backers may one day miss our constitutional republic • Letter : Who ’ s actually responsible for this ‘ show trial ’ ?
I want to thank Rep. Barbara Lee for standing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s dangerous policy by supporting this bill .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Reverse Trump’s move
against safe abortion
For three years, Trump’s global gag rule has threatened countless lives around the world.
It’s been three years since Trump signed an executive order reinstating and expanding the global gag rule, making it even harder for people in developing countries to access crucial reproductive health care. Under his abhorrent policy, health care providers are barred from receiving desperately needed assistance if they so much as mention the word abortion.
Trump’s chokehold on global health aid has closed clinics and cut off access to birth control and safe abortion, with devastating consequences. Every year, up to 31,000 women die from unsafe abortion, nearly all in developing countries.
It’s time for Congress to pass the Global Health, Empowerment and Rights (HER) Act to permanently repeal the global gag rule.
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Tonina Bellante
Oakland
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mercurynews--2020-01-29--George Kittle earns high praise from two of the best tight ends in NFL history

MIAMI BEACH , Fla. — Two of the greatest tight ends to ever play in the NFL are beyond excited — they ’ re amped , no , jacked — to watch the two best tight ends in the game today face off in Super Bowl LIV Sunday .
This showdown between Kansas City ’ s Travis Kelce and the best tight end in the NFL , the 49ers ’ George Kittle , is not just the pinnacle of the position in the modern game — it ’ s also an informal celebration of the legacies of Tony Gonzalez and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ position and , in turn , the sport , is immeasurable .
Tight end , outside of a few outliers , was typically a spot reserved for either wide receivers that were too large and too slow or offensive linemen that weren ’ t large enough , but thanks to Gonzalez and Gronk , it has turned into one of the most important positions in the NFL .
Kittle and Kelce stand as testaments to the value of the position — both are arguably the most important offensive pieces on their team .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a new attitude…I love it , ” Gonzalez , one of those outliers who was a 14-time Pro Bowler in his sterling career , told me Tuesday at the Miami Beach Convention Center .
“ I think they are the real stars of this Super Bowl…the most personality on each team… They ’ re that soul , that energy .
Their teammates feed off it.
” And both — now analysts at Fox Sports — had effusive praise for Kittle , the All-Pro .
“ Man , I love watching George Kittle , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ modern NFL tight end , outstanding in both pass-catching and blocking — said .
“ He ’ s just an overall solid tight end , man , and he brings that passion to the game .
That ’ s what you love to watch .
When he catches that ball , you have to bring the whole defense at him .
And you have to tackle him hard — he ’ s trying to score every single time .
That ’ s what fans love about him .
That ’ s what I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — ever the self-promoter — see more of himself in ?
“ I would say that I ’ m more like Kittle , hands down , ” Gronkowski said .
“ The attitude that he brings to the table .
The grit he brings to the trenches .
He wants to bring it every time .
He wants to be that guy that ’ s fierce out there .
Wrecking guys if it ’ s the pass game or run game .
For Gonzalez , Kittle ’ s ascendency is no surprise .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ — who coached Gonzalez in Atlanta — told arguably the Kansas City Chiefs legend ( pause for boos ) about the 26-year-old Kittle back when he was a rookie .
“ I remember when John got there — we talk , he ’ s a good friend of mine — and I remember him telling me ‘ I got this fifth round guy , and I ’ m telling you , he could be something special.
” Kittle ’ s blocking prowess is no surprise , either .
“ Well , he better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ end coach in the NFL .
You look at what [ Embree ] has done — everywhere he ’ s gone , he ’ s had All-Pro , Pro-Bowl tight ends .
“ You ’ re going to be a complete tight end .
That ’ s what he demands.
” Gonzalez — now 43 — admitted that watching Kittle pancake block defenders riled up some old feelings .
“ Kittle — he enjoys [ blocking ] , ” Gonzalez said .
“ Hell , it made me want to go out there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dunk people sometimes — because that takes extra energy to do .
You better be enjoying it !
”

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Two of the greatest tight ends to ever play in the NFL are beyond excited — they’re amped, no, jacked — to watch the two best tight ends in the game today face off in Super Bowl LIV Sunday.
This showdown between Kansas City’s Travis Kelce and the best tight end in the NFL, the 49ers’ George Kittle, is not just the pinnacle of the position in the modern game — it’s also an informal celebration of the legacies of Tony Gonzalez and Rob Gronkowski, whose impact on the position and, in turn, the sport, is immeasurable.
Tight end, outside of a few outliers, was typically a spot reserved for either wide receivers that were too large and too slow or offensive linemen that weren’t large enough, but thanks to Gonzalez and Gronk, it has turned into one of the most important positions in the NFL. Kittle and Kelce stand as testaments to the value of the position — both are arguably the most important offensive pieces on their team.
“These guys are coming in with a new attitude…I love it,” Gonzalez, one of those outliers who was a 14-time Pro Bowler in his sterling career, told me Tuesday at the Miami Beach Convention Center. “I think they are the real stars of this Super Bowl…the most personality on each team… They’re that soul, that energy. Their teammates feed off it.”
And both — now analysts at Fox Sports — had effusive praise for Kittle, the All-Pro.
“Man, I love watching George Kittle,” Gronkowski — the prototype of the modern NFL tight end, outstanding in both pass-catching and blocking — said. “He’s just an overall solid tight end, man, and he brings that passion to the game. That’s what you love to watch. When he catches that ball, you have to bring the whole defense at him. And you have to tackle him hard — he’s trying to score every single time. That’s what fans love about him. That’s what I love about him.”
Who does Gronk — ever the self-promoter — see more of himself in?
“I would say that I’m more like Kittle, hands down,” Gronkowski said. “The attitude that he brings to the table. The grit he brings to the trenches. He wants to bring it every time. He wants to be that guy that’s fierce out there. Wrecking guys if it’s the pass game or run game.
For Gonzalez, Kittle’s ascendency is no surprise. Niners’ tight end coach John Embree — who coached Gonzalez in Atlanta — told arguably the Kansas City Chiefs legend (pause for boos) about the 26-year-old Kittle back when he was a rookie.
“I remember when John got there — we talk, he’s a good friend of mine — and I remember him telling me ‘I got this fifth round guy, and I’m telling you, he could be something special.”
Kittle’s blocking prowess is no surprise, either.
“Well, he better block. He has the best tight end coach in the NFL. You look at what [Embree] has done — everywhere he’s gone, he’s had All-Pro, Pro-Bowl tight ends.
“You’re going to be a complete tight end. That’s what he demands.”
Gonzalez — now 43 — admitted that watching Kittle pancake block defenders riled up some old feelings.
“Kittle — he enjoys [blocking],” Gonzalez said. “Hell, it made me want to go out there. Maybe I should have tried to dunk people sometimes — because that takes extra energy to do. You better be enjoying it!”
“I love watching him play.”
Don’t we all?


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Letter: Would pedicabs help SJ airport reduce pollution?

Re : “ San Jose airport has nation ’ s largest fleet of all-electric buses .
So why is it @ @ @ @ @ ( Mercurynews.com , Jan. 22 ) : To further eliminate air pollution from the airport @ @ @ @ @ could consider a fleet of pedicabs .
That would have the benefit of avoiding all @ @ @ @ @ .
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The downside would be all the CO2 given off by the pedicab drivers breathing @ @ @ @ @ the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Would pedicabs help SJ
airport reduce pollution?
Re: “San Jose airport has nation’s largest fleet of all-electric buses. So why is it still using gas?” (Mercurynews.com, Jan. 22):
To further eliminate air pollution from the airport bus fleet, San Jose could consider a fleet of pedicabs.
That would have the benefit of avoiding all those nasty ingredients in batteries.
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Chester Clark
Los Altos
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mercurynews--2020-01-29--Horoscopes Jan. 29, 2020: Oprah Winfrey and Sara Gilbert share advice.

Happy Birthday : Control will be required to take the edge off anxiety .
A settled mind will help fight against making impulsive decisions that can lead to mistakes , insult or injury .
Channel your energy wisely , and the world will be yours ; make a fuss , and you ’ ll achieve little .
Optimize your chance to advance using precision and detail to flourish .
Your numbers are 9 , 17 , 23 , 28 , 30 , 35 , 42 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Keep life simple and moving forward .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ you or lead to emotional , financial or physical excess .
Put time and energy into whatever will benefit you the most .
Use your intellect to win your battles .
3 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Make changes that are in your best interest .
Watch what others do , and refuse to get pulled into something that is all hype and no action .
Have a plan in mind , and you will exceed your expectations .
3 stars GEMINI ( May 21-June 20 ) : Chitchat , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that you find worthwhile .
Refuse to let anyone mess with your emotions , lead you astray or take what ’ s rightfully yours .
Plan to win , and you will outsmart the competition .
4 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : An emotional matter will consume you if you aren ’ t careful .
Put concerns in perspective , realize success is your best revenge , and don ’ t waste time on people or situations that are not worth your while .
Focus on peace and love , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : Keep moving .
Idle time is the enemy .
Line up the people who enjoy the same things you do , and make plans to do something that will bring results and keep you out of trouble .
Make smart decisions .
5 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Don ’ t leave anything to chance .
Changes you make at home will not please everyone .
Don ’ t let an emotional situation end up costing you financially .
Change can be useful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the right reason and be within budget .
3 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Get out and about .
Spend time with people who share your beliefs and opinions , and you will discover information that will help you expand on a plan or idea you want to pursue .
Don ’ t let someone negative discourage you .
3 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : Getting out of your typical environment will be enlightening .
Sharing space with someone who is working toward a similar goal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ growth , love and peace of mind are within reach .
5 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Use your intelligence , knowledge and experience to bypass someone who is trying to lead you astray .
Know in your heart what you want , and make adjustments that will ward off temptation and promote personal gain .
Let go of the past .
2 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : Share what you have , what you know and what you want to pursue with someone you love .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ being much better than anticipated .
Don ’ t fight the inevitable .
4 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Be direct , precise and willing to do the work to get results .
A simple approach to whatever you do will help you keep your costs down and leave more time to add small but essential details .
4 stars PISCES ( Feb. 19-March 20 ) : You ’ ll benefit the most if you work alone .
Interference is the enemy , and argumentative people will leave you in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Keep your financial and personal matters private and your opinions and feelings to yourself .
3 stars Birthday Baby : You are smart , trendy and perceptive .
You are relentless and curious .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Sara Gilbert, 45; Heather Graham, 50; Oprah Winfrey, 66; Tom Selleck, 75.
Happy Birthday: Control will be required to take the edge off anxiety. A settled mind will help fight against making impulsive decisions that can lead to mistakes, insult or injury. Channel your energy wisely, and the world will be yours; make a fuss, and you’ll achieve little. Optimize your chance to advance using precision and detail to flourish. Your numbers are 9, 17, 23, 28, 30, 35, 42.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Keep life simple and moving forward. Refuse to let what others do influence you or lead to emotional, financial or physical excess. Put time and energy into whatever will benefit you the most. Use your intellect to win your battles. 3 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Make changes that are in your best interest. Watch what others do, and refuse to get pulled into something that is all hype and no action. Have a plan in mind, and you will exceed your expectations. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Chitchat, consider your options and contribute to something that you find worthwhile. Refuse to let anyone mess with your emotions, lead you astray or take what’s rightfully yours. Plan to win, and you will outsmart the competition. 4 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): An emotional matter will consume you if you aren’t careful. Put concerns in perspective, realize success is your best revenge, and don’t waste time on people or situations that are not worth your while. Focus on peace and love, not creating chaos. 2 stars.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Keep moving. Idle time is the enemy. Line up the people who enjoy the same things you do, and make plans to do something that will bring results and keep you out of trouble. Make smart decisions. 5 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Don’t leave anything to chance. Changes you make at home will not please everyone. Don’t let an emotional situation end up costing you financially. Change can be useful, but it has to be done for the right reason and be within budget. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get out and about. Spend time with people who share your beliefs and opinions, and you will discover information that will help you expand on a plan or idea you want to pursue. Don’t let someone negative discourage you. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Getting out of your typical environment will be enlightening. Sharing space with someone who is working toward a similar goal or lifestyle will be encouraging. Personal growth, love and peace of mind are within reach. 5 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Use your intelligence, knowledge and experience to bypass someone who is trying to lead you astray. Know in your heart what you want, and make adjustments that will ward off temptation and promote personal gain. Let go of the past. 2 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Share what you have, what you know and what you want to pursue with someone you love. A change at home will end up being much better than anticipated. Don’t fight the inevitable. 4 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Be direct, precise and willing to do the work to get results. A simple approach to whatever you do will help you keep your costs down and leave more time to add small but essential details. 4 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): You’ll benefit the most if you work alone. Interference is the enemy, and argumentative people will leave you in limbo regarding how to move forward. Keep your financial and personal matters private and your opinions and feelings to yourself. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are smart, trendy and perceptive. You are relentless and curious.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.


Word Game: Jan. 29, 2020

Can you find 35 or more words in PETUNIA ?
The list will be published tomorrow .
To purchase the @ @ @ @ @ WordGameBooks.com .
Order it now for just $ 5 while supplies last !
1 .
@ @ @ @ @ or more letters .
2 .
Words that acquire four letters by the addition of @ @ @ @ @ as “ bats ” or “ dies , ” are not allowed .
3 .
@ @ @ @ @ a “ d ” or an “ s ” may not be used .
For @ @ @ @ @ ” is used , “ baked ” or “ bakes ” are not allowed , @ @ @ @ @ “ baking ” are admissible .
4 .
Proper nouns , slang words , or @ @ @ @ @ are not allowed .

TODAY’S WORD — PETUNIA (PETUNIA: pih-TOON-yuh: A colorful trumpet-shaped annual flower.)
Average mark 25 words
Time limit 40 minutes
Can you find 35 or more words in PETUNIA? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — ABYSMALLY ably abysmal alas allay ally
alms ball balm balmy balsa balsam basal sally samba slab slam
slay slyly small mall lama lamb Llama
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--2020-01-29--Oh captain: How did 49ers leaders bask in Super Bowl debut?

MIAMI — The 49ers ’ captains have a secret , and I couldn ’ t crack their code Tuesday in the waning minutes of their Super Bowl media session .
My investigative reporting revealed only so much .
The 49ers ’ fearless leaders wouldn ’ t squeal .
On what , exactly ?
What , indeed .
Allow me to take you inside the conference room , where 10 selected players met the press , at the downtown Miami Hyatt .
This is how my sleuthing began with 10 minutes left in the hour session : Asked by a reporter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment of Super Bowl Opening Night media spectacle , Buckner cracked open the door on this mystery : “ We , the captains , before we went on stage , we all shared a moment .
It was pretty cool .
Obviously .
I ’ m not going to say what we did .
But I thought we shared a pretty good moment.
” Then Buckner turned to his right and shot me a look with a mischievous smile .
Onward !
My sly approach was to ask Staley about the camaraderie among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone on the team is “ really fun to be around , ” that it ’ s “ very unique ” about a “ genuine ” family atmosphere .
None of that is revealing news , so I was more direct : “ What did you captains do before you took the stage last night at Media Night ?
” “ Um , we did a whole bunch of press stuff that we had to do upstairs , ” Staley replied .
Was there not a moment together ?
“ No , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talking about ?
I don ’ t know.
” He smiled , paused , then relented : “ We had a moment.
” “ No .
That ’ s between me and my captains.
” Take II on my captain-camaraderie angle .
“ Oh my God , we ’ re a fun group of guys .
We don ’ t take ourselves too seriously , and I ’ m at the forefront of that .
It ’ s a great group of guys .
If they could pick the captains all over again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the exact same guys , because they are the leaders of this team on and off the fied.
” Sherman then extolled the virtues of fellow captains , one by one , such as praising Jimmy Garoppolo ’ s humble nature and how the quarterback might not even want to go on stage and accept a potential Super Bowl MVP award .
Time for a more direct approach and ask about Monday ’ s pre-stage , under-wraps activity : “ Yeah , yeah , it ’ s a special bonding moment between us @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , something we ’ ll always remember.
” Sherman erupted into laughter , begged to answer another reporter ’ s question .
Only one question was left before the shot clock expired for the media , and I managed to arrive just then to try the “ captain-camaraderie ” approach .
“ It ’ s been really good .
What we did last night was real fun and everything .
It ’ s a great group of guys.
” What exactly did the captains do ?
“ We went out and shook the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re asking about ?
” At this point , I still didn ’ t know what I was asking about .
“ All that stuff , being together , it ’ s a rare group to be with.
” Nope , time expired , no chance to see if Kittle , their fifth and final captain , would spill the beans .
As the captains and five other players were whisked away after the press conference , I circled back to Buckner .
He laughed .
He wouldn ’ t give @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Therein lies the point of all this : to paint a picture of a tight-knit group .
What was clear as day in that conference room 14 hours later was how the 49ers captains , all seated apart , bit their lips and wouldn ’ t let anyone know their clubhouse password , their secret handshake , or , hmmm , perhaps meeting back stage Dwayne “ The Rock ” Johnson , who , hmmm , just launched Teremana Tequila .
One person – not a captain — who witnessed this mysterious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coach Kyle Shanahan and soaked in the moment , before making their Super Bowl introductions inside Marlins Park .
The 49ers have an unspoken bond through not just their captains but the whole roster and organization .
They are in the Super Bowl because of a team-oriented mentality that ’ s built over wins and losses .
And because of cherished moments behind the scenes that sometime don ’ t need to be explained , not to outsiders .
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MIAMI — The 49ers’ captains have a secret, and I couldn’t crack their code Tuesday in the waning minutes of their Super Bowl media session.
My investigative reporting revealed only so much. The 49ers’ fearless leaders wouldn’t squeal. On what, exactly? What, indeed.
Allow me to take you inside the conference room, where 10 selected players met the press, at the downtown Miami Hyatt. This is how my sleuthing began with 10 minutes left in the hour session:
1. Defensive end DeForest Buckner’s podium
Asked by a reporter what was the most memorable, crazy moment of Super Bowl Opening Night’s media spectacle, Buckner cracked open the door on this mystery:
“We, the captains, before we went on stage, we all shared a moment. It was pretty cool. Obviously. I’m not going to say what we did. But I thought we shared a pretty good moment.”
Then Buckner turned to his right and shot me a look with a mischievous smile. Onward!
2. Left tackle Joe Staley’s podium
My sly approach was to ask Staley about the camaraderie among the captains. He described that simply everyone on the team is “really fun to be around,” that it’s “very unique” about a “genuine” family atmosphere.
None of that is revealing news, so I was more direct: “What did you captains do before you took the stage last night at Media Night?”
“Um, we did a whole bunch of press stuff that we had to do upstairs,” Staley replied.
Was there not a moment together?
“No,” Staley said. “What are you talking about? I don’t know.”
He smiled, paused, then relented: “We had a moment.”
Care to elaborate?
“No. That’s between me and my captains.”
3. Cornerback Richard Sherman’s podium
Take II on my captain-camaraderie angle. “Oh my God, we’re a fun group of guys. We don’t take ourselves too seriously, and I’m at the forefront of that. It’s a great group of guys. If they could pick the captains all over again this season, they’d pick the exact same guys, because they are the leaders of this team on and off the field.”
Sherman then extolled the virtues of fellow captains, one by one, such as praising Jimmy Garoppolo’s humble nature and how the quarterback might not even want to go on stage and accept a potential Super Bowl MVP award.
Time for a more direct approach and ask about Monday’s pre-stage, under-wraps activity: “Yeah, yeah, it’s a special bonding moment between us and the staff. It was cool, something we’ll always remember.”
Sherman erupted into laughter, begged to answer another reporter’s question.
4. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo’s podium
Only one question was left before the shot clock expired for the media, and I managed to arrive just then to try the “captain-camaraderie” approach.
“It’s been really good. What we did last night was real fun and everything. It’s a great group of guys.”
What exactly did the captains do?
“We went out and shook the hands and everything. Is that what you’re asking about?”
At this point, I still didn’t know what I was asking about.
“All that stuff, being together, it’s a rare group to be with.”
5. Tight end George Kittle’s podium
Nope, time expired, no chance to see if Kittle, their fifth and final captain, would spill the beans.
As the captains and five other players were whisked away after the press conference, I circled back to Buckner. He laughed. He wouldn’t give it up. It was their secret.
Therein lies the point of all this: to paint a picture of a tight-knit group.
What was clear as day in that conference room 14 hours later was how the 49ers captains, all seated apart, bit their lips and wouldn’t let anyone know their clubhouse password, their secret handshake, or, hmmm, perhaps meeting back stage Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, who, hmmm, just launched Teremana Tequila.
One person – not a captain — who witnessed this mysterious moment explained the captains merely huddled with coach Kyle Shanahan and soaked in the moment, before making their Super Bowl introductions inside Marlins Park.
The 49ers have an unspoken bond through not just their captains but the whole roster and organization. They are in the Super Bowl because of a team-oriented mentality that’s built over wins and losses. And because of cherished moments behind the scenes that sometime don’t need to be explained, not to outsiders.


Bridge: Jan. 29, 2020

Unlucky Louie had suffered through another losing session in his penny game .
“ They say money talks , ” Louie groaned , “ but mine doesn ’ t stay around long enough to even introduce itself.
” Louie ’ s problem , which bedevils him over and over , is haste .
When he was today ’ s declarer , West led the deuce of spades , and Louie promptly called for dummy ’ s queen .
East took the king and shifted to the queen of clubs .
Louie ducked , won the next club ( as West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , took the ace of spades and exited with a club .
East won and led a diamond , and Louie had to lose a diamond .
Louie lost his game at Trick One .
He must take the ace of spades and lead the ace and a second diamond .
West takes the king and leads another spade , and East wins and shifts to clubs .
Louie takes the ace , leads a trump to dummy , ruffs a diamond , leads a trump to dummy and ruffs a diamond .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ trump and pitch a club loser on the good fifth diamond .
You hold : S 8 3 H A K 9 8 6 2 D Q 3 C A 6 4 .
Your partner opens one diamond , you respond one heart and he bids one spade .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : As most partnerships play , a jump to three hearts would be invitational , not forcing , and you have too many values to stop below game .
A jump to four hearts or 3NT is possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contract .
Bid two clubs , a “ fourth-suit ” call that doesn ’ t promise clubs and asks partner to bid again .

Unlucky Louie had suffered through another losing session in his penny game.
“They say money talks,” Louie groaned, “but mine doesn’t stay around long enough to even introduce itself.”
Louie’s problem, which bedevils him over and over, is haste. When he was today’s declarer, West led the deuce of spades, and Louie promptly called for dummy’s queen.
East took the king and shifted to the queen of clubs. Louie ducked, won the next club (as West unblocked his king), drew trumps, took the ace of spades and exited with a club. East won and led a diamond, and Louie had to lose a diamond.
DIAMOND
Louie lost his game at Trick One. He must take the ace of spades and lead the ace and a second diamond. West takes the king and leads another spade, and East wins and shifts to clubs.
Louie takes the ace, leads a trump to dummy, ruffs a diamond, leads a trump to dummy and ruffs a diamond. He can return to dummy with a trump and pitch a club loser on the good fifth diamond.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S 8 3 H A K 9 8 6 2 D Q 3 C A 6 4. Your partner opens one diamond, you respond one heart and he bids one spade. What do you say?
ANSWER: As most partnerships play, a jump to three hearts would be invitational, not forcing, and you have too many values to stop below game. A jump to four hearts or 3NT is possible but might land you at the wrong contract. Bid two clubs, a “fourth-suit” call that doesn’t promise clubs and asks partner to bid again.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S A Q
H Q J 10
D A 7 6 4 2
C 7 5 3
WEST
S J 9 7 2
H 7 3
D K 10 8 5
C K 9 8
EAST
S K 10 6 5 4
H 5 4
D J 9
C Q J 10 2
SOUTH
S 8 3
H A K 9 8 6 2
D Q 3
C A 6 4
South West North East
1 H Pass 2 D Pass
2 H Pass 4 H All Pass
Opening lead — S 2
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Ask Amy: My friend threatened to report me to the boss

DEAR AMY : I have a co-worker who became a friend .
We would get coffee , have lunch , and take breaks together .
But she and I seem to have misunderstandings .
We got into a fight , to a point where she told me never to text or call her again .
She said that all she wants is a business relationship .
She told me we can ’ t be friends , or she will escalate things and report me to the boss .
I gave in and let her have her space .
We didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Then she came back from a trip and offered me cookies she brought from her trip .
She came to my desk and told me to pick whichever I wanted .
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Do I pretend I don ’ t know ?
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She started texting me for favors .
I still have not texted her back .
I don ’ t know what to think .
I asked her recently if she sees me as a friend and she said yes , but I don ’ t really believe her .
I don ’ t want to get hurt again , but I do miss her .
What should I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seems to be trying to make amends , without actually addressing the direct threat she made to you .
No , I don ’ t think you should trust her .
If she overreacted when she promised to report you to the boss , then she should acknowledge this and ask you to forgive her .
Until then , consider yourself burned , and keep your contact strictly professional .
DEAR AMY : My boyfriend of a few months is one of the most caring , sweetest , and genuine guys I have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just nice to me , but I ’ ve observed his behavior toward strangers , waitresses , friends , colleagues , etc .
He is lovely and kind .
He also supports the current president and loathes the Democratic Party .
He is a permanent resident whose family emigrated from a country led by a dictator 52 years ago .
I am the opposite .
I was born in this country 47 years ago .
I ’ m not too political , yet I do speak up , rally , and let elected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are being infringed upon .
I do not agree with the current administration on anything .
He and I do not talk politics much , but we do talk daily about common interests , our respective days , and we spend our available time with one another .
Our chemistry is undeniably intense and while we have not said “ I love you ” to one another , he has both written and said how much he cares about me .
The only other supporter of this president I allow in my life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a mom to me .
Do you think I am crazy if I continue this relationship ?
DEAR SDJ : I don ’ t think you ’ re crazy at all .
He might eventually wonder what he is doing with someone who is so closed-minded , however .
He “ loathes the Democratic party.
” That ’ s covering a pretty broad spectrum , but according to you , he hates the ideology — not necessarily the people .
You , however , seem to say that you ought to reject any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You ’ ve made an exception for two people — both of whom you love .
So , if you love a person , you will give them a pass regarding their political beliefs .
Headed into this heated political year , ask yourself : What if I loved everyone ?
What if I reflexively loved everyone , and let everyone into my life , even people who hold opinions I loathe ?
Granted , there are people who espouse hatred and violence toward fellow humans .
If you believe that support for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this category , then you should steer clear of him .
One of the ( many ) unfortunate aspects of the current political divisiveness in our country is the way both sides characterize the other as “ bad , evil , disgusting , ” etc .
Because this is the incendiary language the president uses , the country seems to have followed suit .
But , maybe you ’ re better than that .
And maybe your guy is , too .
DEAR AMY : “ Looking for Answers ” was an adopted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ birth family .
I was disgusted by your response to her .
You suggested that she get a lawyer involved .
Why , exactly ?
DEAR DISGUSTED : My answer was long and nuanced .
At the end , I suggested that if she wanted to explore her legal options , if any , she should contact a lawyer .
For someone seeking answers , this would be the last resort .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can also follow her on Twitter @ askingamy or Facebook .

DEAR AMY: I have a co-worker who became a friend. We would get coffee, have lunch, and take breaks together. But she and I seem to have misunderstandings.
We got into a fight, to a point where she told me never to text or call her again. She said that all she wants is a business relationship. She told me we can’t be friends, or she will escalate things and report me to the boss.
I gave in and let her have her space. We didn’t talk for about a month.
Then she came back from a trip and offered me cookies she brought from her trip. She came to my desk and told me to pick whichever I wanted.
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I don’t know what to think. I asked her recently if she sees me as a friend and she said yes, but I don’t really believe her. I don’t want to get hurt again, but I do miss her.
What should I do?
Workfriend
DEAR WORKFRIEND: Your pal seems to be trying to make amends, without actually addressing the direct threat she made to you. No, I don’t think you should trust her. If she overreacted when she promised to report you to the boss, then she should acknowledge this and ask you to forgive her.
Until then, consider yourself burned, and keep your contact strictly professional.
DEAR AMY: My boyfriend of a few months is one of the most caring, sweetest, and genuine guys I have ever met. He’s not just nice to me, but I’ve observed his behavior toward strangers, waitresses, friends, colleagues, etc. He is lovely and kind.
He also supports the current president and loathes the Democratic Party. He is a permanent resident whose family emigrated from a country led by a dictator 52 years ago.
I am the opposite. I was born in this country 47 years ago. I’m not too political, yet I do speak up, rally, and let elected officials know when the causes I support are being infringed upon. I do not agree with the current administration on anything.
He and I do not talk politics much, but we do talk daily about common interests, our respective days, and we spend our available time with one another.
Our chemistry is undeniably intense and while we have not said “I love you” to one another, he has both written and said how much he cares about me.
The only other supporter of this president I allow in my life is a family member who is like a mom to me.
Do you think I am crazy if I continue this relationship?
SDJ in the Northeast
DEAR SDJ: I don’t think you’re crazy at all. He might eventually wonder what he is doing with someone who is so closed-minded, however.
He “loathes the Democratic party.” That’s covering a pretty broad spectrum, but according to you, he hates the ideology — not necessarily the people.
You, however, seem to say that you ought to reject any individual who supports the current administration. You’ve made an exception for two people — both of whom you love. So, if you love a person, you will give them a pass regarding their political beliefs.
Headed into this heated political year, ask yourself: What if I loved everyone? What if I reflexively loved everyone, and let everyone into my life, even people who hold opinions I loathe?
Granted, there are people who espouse hatred and violence toward fellow humans. If you believe that support for the administration automatically places your boyfriend into this category, then you should steer clear of him.
One of the (many) unfortunate aspects of the current political divisiveness in our country is the way both sides characterize the other as “bad, evil, disgusting,” etc. Because this is the incendiary language the president uses, the country seems to have followed suit. But, maybe you’re better than that. And maybe your guy is, too.
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR AMY: “Looking for Answers” was an adopted woman who was rebuffed after contacting her birth family.
I was disgusted by your response to her. You suggested that she get a lawyer involved. Why, exactly?
Disgusted
DEAR DISGUSTED: My answer was long and nuanced. At the end, I suggested that if she wanted to explore her legal options, if any, she should contact a lawyer. For someone seeking answers, this would be the last resort.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Letter: Oakland: Give landlords more control to get more rentals

Owners need more control to offer more affordable rentals Oakland is telling landlords how to choose their own tenants .
The latest regulation prohibits landlords from doing background checks .
Will the next thing be that they will not be able to do credit checks ?
There are already rent controls that dictate how much rent can or can not be increased .
With a multitude of regulations and bureaucratic dos and don ’ ts , landlords all over the state are no longer free to manage their own property .
So , it ’ s not surprising that many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their properties off the market .
The result is less available rental properties .
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In order to stimulate an increase in affordable rental housing , it should be made easier for owners to do what they want with their own property .
It ’ s called free market capitalism and it works every time .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more @ @ @ @

Owners need more control
to offer more affordable rentals
Re: “Oakland votes to bar landlords from conducting background checks” (Jan. 21):
Oakland is telling landlords how to choose their own tenants. The latest regulation prohibits landlords from doing background checks. Will the next thing be that they will not be able to do credit checks?
There are already rent controls that dictate how much rent can or cannot be increased.
With a multitude of regulations and bureaucratic dos and don’ts, landlords all over the state are no longer free to manage their own property. So, it’s not surprising that many existing and prospective landlords are just taking their properties off the market. The result is less available rental properties.
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Jay Todesco
Concord
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
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mercurynews--2020-01-29--Harriette Cole: My dying friend is living it up, and I think that’s unwise

DEAR HARRIETTE : One of my best friends has terminal cancer .
He has tried everything to heal himself , which is actually a lot because he has money .
He has traveled all over the world trying to find a doctor or therapy that will help him , but nothing is working .
Now , it seems like he is slowing down .
He is unwilling to accept that he may be dying soon , though .
He still wants to hang out late , which I do not advise .
But then I wonder if I should just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ includes me at his fun events , but I see that he is failing .
How can I best support him ?
DEAR FRIEND AT THE END : First , I ’ m so sorry to hear about your friend ’ s health challenges .
He has learned on a personal level that money does not buy everything , including health — at least sometimes .
Good for him that he used his resources to make the effort to heal himself .
If he truly has exhausted all of his options , now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last days as he chooses .
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You may be able to help your friend during this delicate period .
If he will address the topic , find out if he has all of his papers and finances in order .
Tell him that you want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make sure his affairs are in order .
Rather than reprimanding him about how he spends his final days , do your best to be with him as much as you are able .
Help him to savor his time left on Earth .
DEAR HARRIETTE : I live in a small apartment building .
Most of the people who live here know each other , but it would be inaccurate to say that we are all friends .
There ’ s one guy who lives one floor below me who has decided @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stops by at all times of the day and night without invitation .
I don ’ t like that .
I deserve to have my privacy and to entertain who I want , not just him because he keeps coming over .
The last straw was when he rang my bell after midnight and kept ringing until I answered .
He had been drinking and was loud and obnoxious .
I ended up letting him in so that he wouldn ’ t wake up all the neighbors , but I don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ How should I handle this ?
DEAR SETTING BOUNDARIES : Start by talking to your neighbor and letting him know you are not happy with his uninvited visits .
Point out how upset you were when he showed up drunk , loud and late the other night .
Warn him that if he does that again , you will call the police .
Speak to a few of your other neighbors to let them know what is going on .
It will be important for others to have your back .
You have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforce your boundaries .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams .
You can send questions to askharriette @ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my best friends has terminal cancer. He has tried everything to heal himself, which is actually a lot because he has money. He has traveled all over the world trying to find a doctor or therapy that will help him, but nothing is working.
Now, it seems like he is slowing down. He is unwilling to accept that he may be dying soon, though. He still wants to hang out late, which I do not advise.
But then I wonder if I should just support whatever he wants. He usually includes me at his fun events, but I see that he is failing. How can I best support him?
Friend at the End
DEAR FRIEND AT THE END: First, I’m so sorry to hear about your friend’s health challenges. He has learned on a personal level that money does not buy everything, including health — at least sometimes. Good for him that he used his resources to make the effort to heal himself. If he truly has exhausted all of his options, now is his time to live out his last days as he chooses.
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Rather than reprimanding him about how he spends his final days, do your best to be with him as much as you are able. Help him to savor his time left on Earth.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I live in a small apartment building. Most of the people who live here know each other, but it would be inaccurate to say that we are all friends.
There’s one guy who lives one floor below me who has decided that he is my friend. He stops by at all times of the day and night without invitation. I don’t like that. I deserve to have my privacy and to entertain who I want, not just him because he keeps coming over.
The last straw was when he rang my bell after midnight and kept ringing until I answered. He had been drinking and was loud and obnoxious. I ended up letting him in so that he wouldn’t wake up all the neighbors, but I don’t want to let him in anymore.
How should I handle this?
Setting Boundaries
DEAR SETTING BOUNDARIES: Start by talking to your neighbor and letting him know you are not happy with his uninvited visits. Point out how upset you were when he showed up drunk, loud and late the other night. Warn him that if he does that again, you will call the police.
Speak to a few of your other neighbors to let them know what is going on. It will be important for others to have your back. You have to stay strong, though, and enforce your boundaries.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-01-30--Judge says jail staff acted with ‘indifference’ when woman gave birth alone in cell

DUBLIN — A federal judge has criticized the Alameda County Sheriff ’ s Office for acting with “ indifference ” in 2017 when a woman gave birth inside her jail cell alone , screaming for hours without any help .
Candace Steel filed a federal lawsuit in the U.S. District Court Northern District against the Sheriff ’ s Office in 2018 , alleging mistreatment in jail , medical malpractice and negligence .
A judge last month ruled the case could proceed , and a mediation has been scheduled for May to potentially settle it .
Steel gave birth to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2017 .
She was screaming in pain for hours while in labor in her jail cell at Santa Rita Jail in Dublin , but instead of being cared for she was placed in isolation , her screams ignored .
She only had her jail clothes to wrap the baby in , Her daughter was born with the umbilical cord around her neck , and Steel had to put her fingers in her mouth to help her breathe .
It was then that deputies heard the baby ’ s cry and came to check @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Sheriff ’ s Office filed a motion to dismiss the case , but U.S. District Court Judge James Donato denied it and issued an opinion last month saying the Sheriff ’ s Office acted with “ deliberate indifference.
” “ On a more fundamental level , there can be no doubt that the way defendants treated a pregnant woman in labor is a textbook example of deliberate indifference , ” Donato wrote .
The judge pointed out that Steel claimed the defendants intentionally isolated and ignored her while she gave birth .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a pretrial detainee ’ s medical needs is hard to imagine , ” the judge wrote .
He also agreed that Steel , through her attorney Yolanda Huang , adequately showed her civil rights were violated for inadequate medical care by the Sheriff ’ s Office .
The judge however , dismissed Steel ’ s claims of negligence and emotional distress .
Steel was arrested for a misdemeanor charge in July 2017 , which was eventually dismissed .
In her lawsuit , Steel says she first was taken to Valley Care Hospital before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medically cleared .
She told doctors she had not received any prenatal care for her pregnancy and had experienced seizures in a prior pregnancy .
She also told them she smoked tobacco daily , smoked marijuana within the last day , drank alcohol during her pregnancy and smoked methamphetamine in the fifth month of her pregnancy .
Doctors diagnosed her with a urinary tract infection , which untreated could lead to pre-term labor and delivery , the lawsuit stated .
They found her to be at least eight months pregnant .
During her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cramping and was sent back to the hospital , where she tested positive for something else that could lead to pre-term labor , court documents state .
Steel went into labor in jail around 60 hours after she arrived , complaining of cramping .
But a nurse who checked her out said she was “ exaggerating her distress ” and experiencing “ nothing but a stomach ache , ” the judge wrote .
It was then that deputies transferred her to an isolation cell , where she later gave birth .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from giving birth without any modern palliatives or a physician ’ s care , Steel was distraught and terrified that she and her child could die in the cell , ” the judge wrote .
Besides the Alameda County Sheriff ’ s Office , the lawsuit also names California Forensic Medical Group , which was under contract with the Sheriffs Office for medical services in the jail .
The settlement conference is scheduled for May 13 in federal court in San Francisco .

DUBLIN — A federal judge has criticized the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office for acting with “indifference” in 2017 when a woman gave birth inside her jail cell alone, screaming for hours without any help.
Candace Steel filed a federal lawsuit in the U.S. District Court Northern District against the Sheriff’s Office in 2018, alleging mistreatment in jail, medical malpractice and negligence. A judge last month ruled the case could proceed, and a mediation has been scheduled for May to potentially settle it.
Steel gave birth to a baby girl, Hope, in July 2017. She was screaming in pain for hours while in labor in her jail cell at Santa Rita Jail in Dublin, but instead of being cared for she was placed in isolation, her screams ignored. She only had her jail clothes to wrap the baby in, Her daughter was born with the umbilical cord around her neck, and Steel had to put her fingers in her mouth to help her breathe.
It was then that deputies heard the baby’s cry and came to check on her, the lawsuit claims.
The Sheriff’s Office filed a motion to dismiss the case, but U.S. District Court Judge James Donato denied it and issued an opinion last month saying the Sheriff’s Office acted with “deliberate indifference.”
“On a more fundamental level, there can be no doubt that the way defendants treated a pregnant woman in labor is a textbook example of deliberate indifference,” Donato wrote.
The judge pointed out that Steel claimed the defendants intentionally isolated and ignored her while she gave birth.
“A higher degree of indifference to a pretrial detainee’s medical needs is hard to imagine,” the judge wrote.
He also agreed that Steel, through her attorney Yolanda Huang, adequately showed her civil rights were violated for inadequate medical care by the Sheriff’s Office. The judge however, dismissed Steel’s claims of negligence and emotional distress.
Steel was arrested for a misdemeanor charge in July 2017, which was eventually dismissed. In her lawsuit, Steel says she first was taken to Valley Care Hospital before being booked into Santa Rita to be medically cleared. She told doctors she had not received any prenatal care for her pregnancy and had experienced seizures in a prior pregnancy. She also told them she smoked tobacco daily, smoked marijuana within the last day, drank alcohol during her pregnancy and smoked methamphetamine in the fifth month of her pregnancy.
Doctors diagnosed her with a urinary tract infection, which untreated could lead to pre-term labor and delivery, the lawsuit stated. They found her to be at least eight months pregnant.
During her first day in jail, she complained of cramping and was sent back to the hospital, where she tested positive for something else that could lead to pre-term labor, court documents state. Steel went into labor in jail around 60 hours after she arrived, complaining of cramping. But a nurse who checked her out said she was “exaggerating her distress” and experiencing “nothing but a stomach ache,” the judge wrote.
It was then that deputies transferred her to an isolation cell, where she later gave birth.
“In addition to the obvious physical travails from giving birth without any modern palliatives or a physician’s care, Steel was distraught and terrified that she and her child could die in the cell,” the judge wrote.
Besides the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, the lawsuit also names California Forensic Medical Group, which was under contract with the Sheriffs Office for medical services in the jail. The settlement conference is scheduled for May 13 in federal court in San Francisco.


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Coronavirus: I’m sick. Is it a cold, flu or the new virus?

Those are the symptoms of influenza — and also the mysterious new coronavirus .
Which do you have ?
It depends how you answer these two questions : Have you recently traveled to Hubei Province , China ?
Do you have any close friends or family members who have recently traveled to Hubei Province , China ?
These two risk factors — traveling or having close contact with a traveler — were shared by all five U.S. cases of the new coronavirus , said Dr. Nancy Messonnier of the CDC ’ s Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been reported .
So far , everybody else has the flu .
Influenza has sickened between 15 and 21 million and hospitalized 70,000 Americans so far this season .
Since the new coronavirus was identified in mid-December , 149 Californians have died of the flu .
“ The symptoms of this disease are fever , cough and respiratory disease , ” she said .
“ That ’ s similar to the early symptoms of influenza and other viral respiratory diseases.
” And it ’ s reasonable to assume that we ’ ll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she said .
“ But we don ’ t think people who are not in one of these two groups need to be concerned , ” she said .
“ We judge the risk to be low.
” If you don ’ t have a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher that lasts for three to five days , you likely just have the common cold .
Keep Kleenex , and carry on .
Want to learn more ?
Go to https : //www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Fever. Cough. Shortness of breath.
Those are the symptoms of influenza — and also the mysterious new coronavirus.
Which do you have? It may depend on how you answer these two questions: Have you recently traveled to China or another area where an outbreak of the virus has been reported? Do you have any close friends or family members who have recently traveled to one of those areas?
These two risk factors — traveling or having close contact with a traveler — were shared by cases of the new coronavirus, Dr. Nancy Messonnier of the CDC’s Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases said in late January, after the outbreak in China was beginning to spread.
Much more worrisome, however, is that the virus may now be spreading within U.S. communities.
During the last week of February, California reported the first two U.S. cases where a patient contracted coronavirus without either traveling to an area where an outbreak had occurred, or coming into known contact with someone who had the disease.
Public health authorities are trying to pinpoint exactly how those patients got coronavirus. They have also urged people who exhibit flu-like symptoms to contact their doctor by phone before going to a health care facility to avoid potential spread if they have the disease.
Influenza has sickened between 15 and 21 million and hospitalized 70,000 Americans so far this season. Since the new coronavirus was identified in mid-December, 149 Californians have died of the flu.
Confusion is natural, said Messonnier.
“The symptoms of this disease are fever, cough and respiratory disease,” she said. “That’s similar to the early symptoms of influenza and other viral respiratory diseases.”
And it’s reasonable to assume that we’ll see additional cases of the new virus, she said.
If you don’t have a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher that lasts for three to five days, you likely just have the common cold.
Keep Kleenex, and carry on.
—————–
Want to learn more? Go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Want to get your Alameda County criminal record dismissed?

HAYWARD — The Alameda County District Attorney ’ s Office and the NAACP announced a program Wednesday designed to help people convicted of certain crimes go through the process of getting them removed from the record .
The District Attorney ’ s Office will host Saturday drop-in workshops at the Hayward Public Library to help qualifying people fill out and complete petitions for dismissal of their conviction records .
Prosecutors will be on hand to help people look up information on prior cases and convictions .
“ We know that a prior conviction on a person ’ s record can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her ability to move forward in life , ” Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O ’ Malley said in a written statement .
“ The District Attorney ’ s Office is proud to partner with the NAACP to help pave a path towards a life free from the roadblocks resulting from a criminal history.
” The workshops will be held Feb. 8 and 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the library , 888 C St. , in Hayward .
The only information needed will be full names , date of birth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Hayward South Alameda County NAACP will have blank forms to fill out , which will also be available at its office .
The NAACP will help people fill out and complete the petitions , which will be delivered to the DA ’ s office .
After prosecutors review the petitions , staff will contact people if they qualify .
Those eligible may be able to waive their appearance in court and the DA ’ s office will submit the petitions to court for review and dismissal .
The court date for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 2 p.m. at the Wiley Manuel courthouse in Oakland .
Among those eligible are adults who were granted probation , completed all probation terms and are no longer on probation .
Those currently on probation or serving a sentence for any offense anywhere , not just Alameda County , don ’ t qualify .
Someone convicted of a misdemeanor or felony conviction that resulted in probation also can petition for dismissal of their conviction record if the probation was completed without further violations .
People whose convictions are dismissed from records don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in job applications , unless applying for government positions .
The convictions will not be completely removed from rap sheets in California and FBI history records , however , although the dismissals will be noted .

HAYWARD — The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office and the NAACP announced a program Wednesday designed to help people convicted of certain crimes go through the process of getting them removed from the record.
The District Attorney’s Office will host Saturday drop-in workshops at the Hayward Public Library to help qualifying people fill out and complete petitions for dismissal of their conviction records. Prosecutors will be on hand to help people look up information on prior cases and convictions.
“We know that a prior conviction on a person’s record can have a huge impact on his or her ability to move forward in life,” Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley said in a written statement. “The District Attorney’s Office is proud to partner with the NAACP to help pave a path towards a life free from the roadblocks resulting from a criminal history.”
The workshops will be held Feb. 8 and 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the library, 888 C St., in Hayward. The only information needed will be full names, date of birth and PFNs (personal file numbers).
The Hayward South Alameda County NAACP will have blank forms to fill out, which will also be available at its office. The NAACP will help people fill out and complete the petitions, which will be delivered to the DA’s office.
After prosecutors review the petitions, staff will contact people if they qualify. Those eligible may be able to waive their appearance in court and the DA’s office will submit the petitions to court for review and dismissal.
The court date for the possible dismissals will be Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at the Wiley Manuel courthouse in Oakland.
Among those eligible are adults who were granted probation, completed all probation terms and are no longer on probation. Those currently on probation or serving a sentence for any offense anywhere, not just Alameda County, don’t qualify.
Someone convicted of a misdemeanor or felony conviction that resulted in probation also can petition for dismissal of their conviction record if the probation was completed without further violations.
People whose convictions are dismissed from records don’t have to reveal their crimes in job applications, unless applying for government positions. The convictions will not be completely removed from rap sheets in California and FBI history records, however, although the dismissals will be noted.


mercurynews--2020-01-29--Bay Area Super Bowl parties: From $5.49 deal to $150 reservations-only bash

So you walk into your local sports bar most Sundays , grab a seat , order a little something and settle in for a day ’ s worth of NFL viewing .
This Sunday ?
Not so fast .
With the San Francisco 49ers in the big game this year , Bay Area sports bars and TV-centric restaurants are naturally expecting larger-than-usual crowds .
Many are requiring reservations , even from their most loyal customers .
Some are amping up their offerings , with prices to match .
Some are offering deals .
Here ’ s a sampling of mega-events @ @ @ @ @ @ @ others worth sharing , add to the article commenting or email us at lzavoral @ bayareanewsgroup.com .
SoMa StrEat Food Park : Look for the Faithful to be jammed in , jersey to jersey , on Sunday at this San Francisco food truck venue .
Ten big-screen TVs will be tuned to the game , and six food trucks will sell bites and sips including Filipino fusion , Argentinean empanadas , wood-fired pizza , sangria and brews .
Admission is free ; dogs are welcome ; seating and SRO spaces are first come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2:30 p.m. but the park opens at 11 a.m. at 428 11th St. , San Francisco .
www.somastreatfoodpark.com Stilettos Wine Bar : Have fun indulging in the old stereotype of the chardonnay-sipping 49ers fan at this Saratoga wine bar .
A $ 10 party ticket gets you a glass of wine ( or a beer ) , raffle ticket , bingo games and unlimited popcorn during the game .
Doors open at 2 p.m. at 14527 Big Basin Way , Saratoga .
Advance tickets , www.eventbrite.com New Parkway Theater : Want to watch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ screen ?
The Oakland movie theater known for hosting Warriors watch parties has slotted the Super Bowl for 3:30 on Sunday ’ s movie schedule .
( Don ’ t arrive super-early unless you want to buy tickets to view “ Ford v. Ferrari ” at noon . )
474 24th St. , Oakland .
Advance tickets , $ 13- $ 15 , www.thenewparkway.com Plank : At Jack London Square , this beer-bowling-bocce entertainment venue will offer a tailgate menu starting at $ 7 ( loaded hot dogs , nachos , wings ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 98 Broadway , Oakland .
www.plankoakland.com SP2 Communal Bar : The party continues Sunday at this San Pedro Square restaurant/patio that hosted two of the team ’ s playoff watch events .
Niners swag , food/drink specials .
Expect standing-room-only .
Doors open at 1 p.m. at 72 N. Almaden Ave. , San Jose .
www.sp2sanjose.com Pacific Catch : These seafood restaurants will offer happy hour pricing from 3 p.m. Super Sunday , with craft beers starting at $ 5 and cocktails and appetizers ( poke , oysters , sushi ) for $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walnut Creek , San Francisco , Campbell , Cupertino , Corte Madera , Palo Alto , Mountain View , San Mateo ) .
www.pacificcatch.com Double D ’ s Sports Grille : This Los Gatos sports restaurant is holding an all-you-can-order-off-the menu Super Bowl party .
The $ 150 ticket covers all your food ( think pork tenderloin , grilled salmon ) , one alcoholic beverage , raffle ticket , football pool square , tax and 20 percent tip .
Doors open at 12:30 p.m. at 354 N. Santa Cruz Ave. , Los Gatos @ @ @ @ @ @ @ www.doubleds.com Yard House : At these San Jose and Concord beer emporiums with 130 taps each , it will be first come , first served for seating .
Doors open at 9 a.m. for brunch ( bottomless mimosas ) .
Santana Row , San Jose , and The Veranda , 2005 Diamond Blvd.
, Concord .
www.yardhouse.com Bourbon Pub at Levi ’ s Stadium : It ’ s the closest watch party to the 49ers ’ home turf .
All-you-can-eat Michael Mina menu for the first two quarters and Miami-themed cocktails , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ p.m. at 4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way , Santa Clara ; tickets at www.eventbrite.com Legends at Diablo Creek : A limited number of tickets are available for the bash at the Diablo Creek Golf Course restaurant .
For $ 25 , you get guaranteed seating , a halftime barbecue buffet , drink specials and a raffle entry .
4050 Port Chicago Highway , Concord .
Phone 925-687-4111 for reservations .
Rookies Sports Lodge : Both San Jose locations have filled up their reservation spaces , so it will be first come , first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 10 cover , quarterly raffles .
Doors open at 11 a.m. at 99 S. First St. and 1535 Meridian Ave. www.rookieslodge.com Ike ’ s Love & Sandwiches : OK , here ’ s the $ 5.49 ( er ) deal .
Buy any beverage on Super Sunday at any Ike ’ s Love & Sandwiches location and get your choice of sandwich for $ 5.49 , which is half off most selections .
Catering orders will be 20 percent off .
www.loveandsandwiches.com The Halford : This chef-driven brew restaurant with 71 selections on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Sunday .
Doors open at 11 a.m. at 1494 Halford Ave. , Santa Clara .
Make advance reservations at www.thehalford.com .
Britannia Arms Almaden : A $ 5 ticket will get you a reserved seat at the Super Bowl party .
Food/drink specials and raffle to win a pint a day for a year .
Doors open at 1:30 p.m. at 5027 Almaden Expressway , San Jose .
Advance tickets , www.eventbrite.com Britannia Arms downtown : Patio and restaurant seating will be first come , first served at this location , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raffle .
Doors open at noon at 173 W. Santa Clara St. , San Jose .
www.thebritdowntown.com Big Al ’ s : This new Milpitas entertainment center that combines an arcade with bowling and a sports bar will be projecting the Super Bowl on a 55-foot screen .
Regular menu in effect .
Seating will be first come , first served .
Doors open at 10 a.m. at 27 Ranch Drive , McCarthy Ranch , Milpitas .
www.ilovebigals.com/silicon-valley Taplands Tap Room : This South Bay brewery , bottle shop and taproom will host @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brats , burgers and $ 5 house beer specials .
Doors open at 11 a.m. and the barbecue starts at 3 p.m. at 1171 Homestead Road , Santa Clara .
www.facebook.com/Taplands

So you walk into your local sports bar most Sundays, grab a seat, order a little something and settle in for a day’s worth of NFL viewing.
This Sunday? Not so fast.
With the San Francisco 49ers in the big game this year, Bay Area sports bars and TV-centric restaurants are naturally expecting larger-than-usual crowds. Many are requiring reservations, even from their most loyal customers. Some are amping up their offerings, with prices to match. Some are offering deals.
Here’s a sampling of mega-events and promotions. If you hear of others worth sharing, add to the article commenting or email us at lzavoral@bayareanewsgroup.com.
SoMa StrEat Food Park: Look for the Faithful to be jammed in, jersey to jersey, on Sunday at this San Francisco food truck venue. Ten big-screen TVs will be tuned to the game, and six food trucks will sell bites and sips including Filipino fusion, Argentinean empanadas, wood-fired pizza, sangria and brews. Admission is free; dogs are welcome; seating and SRO spaces are first come, first served. Event starts at 2:30 p.m. but the park opens at 11 a.m. at 428 11th St., San Francisco. www.somastreatfoodpark.com
Stilettos Wine Bar: Have fun indulging in the old stereotype of the chardonnay-sipping 49ers fan at this Saratoga wine bar. A $10 party ticket gets you a glass of wine (or a beer), raffle ticket, bingo games and unlimited popcorn during the game. Doors open at 2 p.m. at 14527 Big Basin Way, Saratoga. Advance tickets, www.eventbrite.com
New Parkway Theater: Want to watch the red and gold on the silver screen? The Oakland movie theater known for hosting Warriors watch parties has slotted the Super Bowl for 3:30 on Sunday’s movie schedule. (Don’t arrive super-early unless you want to buy tickets to view “Ford v. Ferrari” at noon.) 474 24th St., Oakland. Advance tickets, $13-$15, www.thenewparkway.com
Bourbon Pub at Levi’s Stadium: It’s the closest watch party to the 49ers’ home turf. All-you-can-eat Michael Mina menu for the first two quarters and Miami-themed cocktails, for $100. Doors open at 1 p.m. at 4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara. Buy tickets at www.eventbrite.com.
CoBiz Richmond: Only in the Bay Area will you find a Super Bowl bash at a co-working space and business incubator. For $20-$25, you’ll get food from local caterers and non-alcoholic beverages. (It’s BYOB for the harder stuff: You’re allowed to bring in a six-pack or a bottle of wine.) Event starts at 2:30 p.m. at 1503 Macdonald Ave., Richmond. Buy tickets at www.eventbritecom.
Pinstripes: The party at this new San Mateo bocce/bowling/restaurant venue is tailor-made for Jimmy Garoppolo fans. It’s a bottomless Italian grill feast with spicy Italian sausages, Caesar salad and parmesan chips. Adults eat for $35; kids and teens for $20. The event starts at 2:30 p.m. at Hillsdale Mall, San Mateo. Space is limited, so buy tickets at www.eventbrite.com.
Plank: At Jack London Square, this beer-bowling-bocce entertainment venue will offer a tailgate menu starting at $7 (loaded hot dogs, nachos, wings). Doors open at 11 a.m. at 98 Broadway, Oakland. www.plankoakland.com
SP2 Communal Bar: The party continues Sunday at this San Pedro Square restaurant/patio that hosted two of the team’s playoff watch events. Niners swag, food/drink specials. Expect standing-room-only. Doors open at 1 p.m. at 72 N. Almaden Ave., San Jose. www.sp2sanjose.com
Pacific Catch: These seafood restaurants will offer happy hour pricing from 3 p.m. Super Sunday, with craft beers starting at $5 and cocktails and appetizers (poke, oysters, sushi) for $8. Several locations (Dublin, Walnut Creek, San Francisco, Campbell, Cupertino, Corte Madera, Palo Alto, Mountain View, San Mateo). www.pacificcatch.com
Double D’s Sports Grille: This Los Gatos sports restaurant is holding an all-you-can-order-off-the menu Super Bowl party. The $150 ticket covers all your food (think pork tenderloin, grilled salmon), one alcoholic beverage, raffle ticket, football pool square, tax and 20 percent tip. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. at 354 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos. Must request reservations in advance, www.doubleds.com
Yard House: At these San Jose and Concord beer emporiums with 130 taps each, it will be first come, first served for seating. Doors open at 9 a.m. for brunch (bottomless mimosas). Santana Row, San Jose, and The Veranda, 2005 Diamond Blvd., Concord. www.yardhouse.com
Legends at Diablo Creek: A limited number of tickets are available for the bash at the Diablo Creek Golf Course restaurant. For $25, you get guaranteed seating, a halftime barbecue buffet, drink specials and a raffle entry. 4050 Port Chicago Highway, Concord. Phone 925-687-4111 for reservations.
Rookies Sports Lodge: Both San Jose locations have filled up their reservation spaces, so it will be first come, first served for other seating/standing room. $10 cover, quarterly raffles. Doors open at 11 a.m. at 99 S. First St. and 1535 Meridian Ave. www.rookieslodge.com
Ike’s Love & Sandwiches: OK, here’s the $5.49(er) deal. Buy any beverage on Super Sunday at any Ike’s Love & Sandwiches location and get your choice of sandwich for $5.49, which is half off most selections. Catering orders will be 20 percent off. www.loveandsandwiches.com
The Halford: This chef-driven brew restaurant with 71 selections on tap will offer a Super Bowl menu on Sunday. Doors open at 11 a.m. at 1494 Halford Ave., Santa Clara. Make advance reservations at www.thehalford.com.
Cocina Hermanas: It’s a combination Super Bowl party and one-year anniversary party at this Danville cantina. A $20 ticket buys you two tacos and a drink. Order tickets at www.eventbrite.com. Event starts at 2 p.m. at 501 Hartz Ave., Danville.
Britannia Arms Almaden: A $5 ticket will get you a reserved seat at the Super Bowl party. Food/drink specials and raffle to win a pint a day for a year. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. at 5027 Almaden Expressway, San Jose. Advance tickets, www.eventbrite.com
Britannia Arms downtown: Patio and restaurant seating will be first come, first served at this location, which will feature themed drink specials and a raffle. Admission is free. Doors open at noon at 173 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose. www.thebritdowntown.com
Retro Junkie: This bar/arcade/music venue will put the focus on the game Sunday afternoon/evening, with barbecue by G Stacks available for purchase and beer/shot specials, then host a dance party with DJ afterward. Admission is free but register at www.eventbrite.com to let them know you’re coming. Doors open at 1 p.m. at 2112 N. Main St., Walnut Creek.
Big Al’s: This new Milpitas entertainment center that combines an arcade with bowling and a sports bar will be projecting the Super Bowl on a 55-foot screen. Regular menu in effect. Seating will be first come, first served. Doors open at 10 a.m. at 27 Ranch Drive, McCarthy Ranch, Milpitas. www.ilovebigals.com/silicon-valley
Ricky’s Sports Theatre & Grill: Yep, they’ll be watching and partying at the home of the Raider Nation. A big raffle will include such prizes as Colin Kaepernick-autographed footballs, helmets signed by Arik Armstead, seats from Candlestick Park, JimmyG and Kittle bobbleheads, and more. Barbecue outside the bar. Doors open at noon at 10528 Hesperian Blvd., San Leandro. www.facebook.com/rickysportsbar
Taplands Tap Room: This South Bay brewery, bottle shop and taproom will host a Super Bowl Sunday Shindig with beer brats, burgers and $5 house beer specials. Doors open at 11 a.m. and the barbecue starts at 3 p.m. at 1171 Homestead Road, Santa Clara. www.facebook.com/Taplands
Tommy T’s: This comedy club is opening up for the game, and the bar and kitchen will be open. No admission charge, but register in advance at www.eventbrite.com. Doors open at 2:30 p.m. at 5104 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton.
The Blue Chip: This subterranean sports bar in downtown San Jose specializes in cheesesteaks (recipes from the old Jersey’s restaurant). Look for food/drink specials and raffles on Super Sunday. Doors open at 11 a.m. at 325 S. First St., San Jose. http://thebluechipultra.com/
Buffalo Wild Wings: You can’t toss a chicken bone without hitting a TV in one of these restaurants. Super Bowl Sunday is one of their busiest, both for dine-in and takeout. In the Bay Area, there are locations in Hayward, Daly City, Livermore, Concord, San Ramon, Union City, Dublin, Fremont, Brentwood, San Jose and Gilroy. Opening hours vary; check your nearest one or www.buffalowildwings.com.


mercurynews--2020-01-29--California’s economy gets nation’s No. 2 immigration boost, by this math

California gets the nation ’ s second-largest positive economic contribution from its immigrant residents , says one new ranking .
Analysts at online financial information firm WalletHub looked at 23 economic and demographic factors to rank states by how much benefits immigrants provide .
The report did not look at the legal status of immigrants .
California trailed only New York in the scale of benefits from their immigrant populations and was just ahead of New Jersey .
The least immigrant benefits were found in Mississippi , then Wyoming and Idaho .
To do its scorecard , WalletHub broke the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s how those categories were graded : Immigrant workforce : California got a No .
5 ranking .
Tops : New Jersey , Florida and New York .
Worst ?
Montana , Mississippi and Wyoming .
Socioeconomic contribution : California was No .
1 followed by Hawaii and Florida .
Worst ?
Louisiana , Kentucky and Alabama .
Brain gain/Innovation : California was No .
3 behind New York and Delaware .
Worst ?
Wyoming , Idaho and Mississippi .
International students : California got a No .
9 ranking .
Tops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ New York .
Worst ?
Alaska , Nevada and Mississippi .
Now we ’ ll add a caveat to this study : Like most rankings , these are a more digestible way to ponder business trends rather than a serious analysis of dollars-and-cents policy issues .
Still , they do provide a window into some complex topics .
WalletHub added some nuggets about California ’ s immigrant economy , as it ranks nationally within the metrics used for the study : No .
1 rankings : California has the largest share of jobs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share of foreign-born technology workers .
No .
6 : Economic contribution of international students per capita .
No .
8 : Share of jobs created by the presence of international students .
No .
12 : Median household income of its foreign-born population .
No .
15 : Share of Fortune 500 companies founded by immigrants or their children .
No .
23 : Difference between state and local revenues and expenditures per immigrant.. ” Immigration , and how to handle it , continues to be a contentious topic in the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Currently , much of the debate revolves around border security and President Trump ’ s border wall , which may receive $ 7.2 billion in diverted Pentagon funds this year .
This proposition has divided lawmakers .
But political differences aside , there ’ s no question that immigration as a whole affects the economy.
” PS : Since it ’ s a political year … My trusty spreadsheet tells me that “ blue ” states ( the 20 plus D.C. that didn ’ t support President Trump in 2016 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total score vs. No .
33 in the 30 red states that supported Trump .
• California city pays DACA-holder $ 18,750 after police detained him for ICE • Friends of Bay Area asylum seeker deported to Chad hope to enlist high-level help

California gets the nation’s second-largest positive economic contribution from its immigrant residents, says one new ranking.
Analysts at online financial information firm WalletHub looked at 23 economic and demographic factors to rank states by how much benefits immigrants provide. The report did not look at the legal status of immigrants.
California trailed only New York in the scale of benefits from their immigrant populations and was just ahead of New Jersey. The least immigrant benefits were found in Mississippi, then Wyoming and Idaho.
To do its scorecard, WalletHub broke the immigrant data into four slices. Here’s how those categories were graded:
Immigrant workforce: California got a No. 5 ranking. Tops: New Jersey, Florida and New York. Worst? Montana, Mississippi and Wyoming.
Socioeconomic contribution: California was No. 1 followed by Hawaii and Florida. Worst? Louisiana, Kentucky and Alabama.
Brain gain/Innovation: California was No. 3 behind New York and Delaware. Worst? Wyoming, Idaho and Mississippi.
International students: California got a No. 9 ranking. Tops was Washington, D.C., Massachusetts and New York. Worst? Alaska, Nevada and Mississippi.
Now we’ll add a caveat to this study: Like most rankings, these are a more digestible way to ponder business trends rather than a serious analysis of dollars-and-cents policy issues. Still, they do provide a window into some complex topics.
WalletHub added some nuggets about California’s immigrant economy, as it ranks nationally within the metrics used for the study:
No. 1 rankings: California has the largest share of jobs generated by immigrant-owned businesses and the largest share of foreign-born technology workers.
No. 6: Economic contribution of international students per capita.
No. 8: Share of jobs created by the presence of international students.
No. 12: Median household income of its foreign-born population.
No. 15: Share of Fortune 500 companies founded by immigrants or their children.
No. 23: Difference between state and local revenues and expenditures per immigrant..”Immigration, and how to handle it, continues to be a contentious topic in the United States in 2020,” WalletHub wrote. “Currently, much of the debate revolves around border security and President Trump’s border wall, which may receive $7.2 billion in diverted Pentagon funds this year. This proposition has divided lawmakers. But political differences aside, there’s no question that immigration as a whole affects the economy.”