mercurynews--2020-05-20--Harriette Cole: I walked in on my daughter and saw sex on her screen

DEAR HARRIETTE : I walked into my teenage daughter ’ s room and saw that she was watching a program that had pretty overt sexual activity in it .
When we talked , she told me that almost all of the teenage-focused programs these days have nudity and some kind of sexual activity .
I was aghast .
My daughter is a good girl , as teenagers go .
I don ’ t think she is engaged in sexual activity herself yet , but I don ’ t want her to be able to see some of the things that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showed me some examples of popular teen shows on the streaming services , and she was right .
All of them had sexual activity in them .
I don ’ t want to ban her from TV .
Honestly , I don ’ t know if that would really work anyway .
What can I do to protect her ?
DEAR RATED R : Continue to talk to your daughter about what you believe is appropriate for her to observe and what you wish would come much later .
I remember when my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her turn her head if anything suggestive came on TV .
It wasn ’ t that we were watching inappropriate fare , either .
For some time now , television programming has been dotted with age-inappropriate material .
Because of that training , I can now say to my teenager that she should turn her head if something obviously inappropriate comes on .
• Harriette Cole : The women all turn off their video .
Is that OK ?
• Harriette Cole : Should I take the funeral home ’ s advice about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve started having flashbacks of my shameful behavior • Harriette Cole : My husband makes me feel stupid and inadequate • Harriette Cole : How do I tell my boss I can barely use a computer ?
Another approach I take is to watch programming with her and talk about what is being explored so that she isn ’ t sitting with that content on her own .
Finally , you can check with commonsensemedia.org to determine what is appropriate for her age group .
Encourage her to take responsibility for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her when you are not looking .
DEAR HARRIETTE : I have some friends who are not working .
Either they lost their jobs because of the coronavirus , or they were already retired .
Whatever the reason is , they have a lot of free time on their hands .
Meanwhile , I ’ m still working two jobs in order to take care of my family .
I am grateful to have them , but I am also worn out at the end of each day .
My friends call the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They want to talk .
I need some time to wind down , but if I don ’ t answer the phone , they call incessantly , claiming they are worried whether I am safe and healthy .
I appreciate their concern , but I need some space .
How can I manage my friendships ?
I love them and want to be there for them , but I also need to take care of myself .
What should I do ?
DEAR SEEKING BALANCE : Suggest that you do a group text @ @ @ @ @ @ @ knows you are all OK. Make it clear that you can not talk every night .
Schedule longer conversations every week or every other week at a time when you can devote an extended period of time to conversation .
Manage that chat by inviting them to talk about their lives .
People love to talk .
If you let your friends unload , you will have to say less while still being engaged and present with those that you love .
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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: I walked into my teenage daughter’s room and saw that she was watching a program that had pretty overt sexual activity in it. When we talked, she told me that almost all of the teenage-focused programs these days have nudity and some kind of sexual activity.
I was aghast. My daughter is a good girl, as teenagers go. I don’t think she is engaged in sexual activity herself yet, but I don’t want her to be able to see some of the things that are shown on these programs. She showed me some examples of popular teen shows on the streaming services, and she was right. All of them had sexual activity in them.
I don’t want to ban her from TV. Honestly, I don’t know if that would really work anyway. What can I do to protect her?
Rated R
DEAR RATED R: Continue to talk to your daughter about what you believe is appropriate for her to observe and what you wish would come much later.
I remember when my daughter was younger, I would have her turn her head if anything suggestive came on TV. It wasn’t that we were watching inappropriate fare, either. For some time now, television programming has been dotted with age-inappropriate material. Because of that training, I can now say to my teenager that she should turn her head if something obviously inappropriate comes on.
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Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend Advice | Harriette Cole: I’ve worked hard, and my poor siblings resent my success Another approach I take is to watch programming with her and talk about what is being explored so that she isn’t sitting with that content on her own. Finally, you can check with commonsensemedia.org to determine what is appropriate for her age group. Encourage her to take responsibility for what she consumes. This will help her when you are not looking.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I have some friends who are not working. Either they lost their jobs because of the coronavirus, or they were already retired. Whatever the reason is, they have a lot of free time on their hands.
Meanwhile, I’m still working two jobs in order to take care of my family. I am grateful to have them, but I am also worn out at the end of each day.
My friends call the moment they think I am home. They want to talk. I need some time to wind down, but if I don’t answer the phone, they call incessantly, claiming they are worried whether I am safe and healthy.
I appreciate their concern, but I need some space. How can I manage my friendships? I love them and want to be there for them, but I also need to take care of myself. What should I do?
Seeking Balance
DEAR SEEKING BALANCE: Suggest that you do a group text check-in with your friends so that everybody knows you are all OK. Make it clear that you cannot talk every night.
Schedule longer conversations every week or every other week at a time when you can devote an extended period of time to conversation. Manage that chat by inviting them to talk about their lives. People love to talk. If you let your friends unload, you will have to say less while still being engaged and present with those that you love.
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--2020-05-20--Miss Manners: I’m hurt that the bride turned down my gift

DEAR MISS MANNERS : When a friend ’ s daughter got married , I enjoyed seeing her photos on social media and was very happy for her .
I sent her ( the daughter ) a message and told her I would love to send her a gift if she could send me her address .
I was a bit stunned when she responded and said thank you , but that she didn ’ t want a gift .
I am on a very fixed income , so sending her a present is not a simple matter for me financially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do it to bless her in this happy period of her life .
I felt very slighted by her refusal .
( At least I hadn ’ t purchased a gift yet . )
Am I wrong for feeling a bit rejected when she said no gifts were necessary ?
GENTLE READER : So frequently does Miss Manners hear from Gentle Readers about their frustrations at constant demands for gifts from friends , relatives and co-workers that she admits to surprise at your question .
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Your message may already have done this , but if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will surely do so .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : I have an older sister who continues to go out to socialize .
She posts photos of herself with friends on social media , despite the current need for everyone to stay home .
These are not outings to get needed supplies , nor is she going to an essential job .
I tried to gently mention how we should not be going out at all if it can be helped , and she insisted it was only to see a few people so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not only for her own safety , as she is of mature years , but also for that of her 13-year-old daughter ( who has a history of pneumonia ) , her friends who are seniors , and society at large .
She lives where there is a large population of senior citizens , and also where there have been less stringent preventative orders than elsewhere .
How does one press such a dire subject for everyone ’ s safety to someone who isn ’ t taking the situation seriously ?
GENTLE READER @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public officials in setting health policy during a pandemic .
Miss Manners does not say this to invalidate your all-too-familiar problem , but rather to acknowledge the heartbreaking results when we are forced to use the wrong tool for the job .
What she can suggest is treating the situation as you would an irresponsible health choice made by a close relative .
Your sister is endangering herself , your niece and her friends : This is worth saying to her , even if you are unable to convince her .
• Ask @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was nuts , but of course I can ’ t say that • Harriette Cole : I walked in on my daughter and saw sex on her screen • Dear Abby : I know the truth about my ‘ perfect ’ friend • Travel Troubleshooter : I want a refund , not an American Airlines credit • Ask Amy : I won ’ t be intimate if she won ’ t wear a mask When normalcy returns , we will just have to remember that such strong solutions are reserved for dire and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ license to harangue passing strangers about their bad habits .
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website , www.missmanners.com ; to her email , dearmissmanners @ gmail.com ; or through postal mail to Miss Manners , Andrews McMeel Syndication , 1130 Walnut St. , Kansas City , MO 64106 .

Judith Martin, Nicholas Ivor Martin and Jacobina Martin

DEAR MISS MANNERS: When a friend’s daughter got married, I enjoyed seeing her photos on social media and was very happy for her. I sent her (the daughter) a message and told her I would love to send her a gift if she could send me her address.
I was a bit stunned when she responded and said thank you, but that she didn’t want a gift. I am on a very fixed income, so sending her a present is not a simple matter for me financially, yet I had really wanted to do it to bless her in this happy period of her life.
I felt very slighted by her refusal. (At least I hadn’t purchased a gift yet.) Am I wrong for feeling a bit rejected when she said no gifts were necessary?
GENTLE READER: So frequently does Miss Manners hear from Gentle Readers about their frustrations at constant demands for gifts from friends, relatives and co-workers that she admits to surprise at your question.
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DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have an older sister who continues to go out to socialize. She posts photos of herself with friends on social media, despite the current need for everyone to stay home. These are not outings to get needed supplies, nor is she going to an essential job.
I tried to gently mention how we should not be going out at all if it can be helped, and she insisted it was only to see a few people so she was fine. I am worried not only for her own safety, as she is of mature years, but also for that of her 13-year-old daughter (who has a history of pneumonia), her friends who are seniors, and society at large.
She lives where there is a large population of senior citizens, and also where there have been less stringent preventative orders than elsewhere. How does one press such a dire subject for everyone’s safety to someone who isn’t taking the situation seriously?
GENTLE READER: Etiquette cannot substitute for responsible public officials in setting health policy during a pandemic.
Miss Manners does not say this to invalidate your all-too-familiar problem, but rather to acknowledge the heartbreaking results when we are forced to use the wrong tool for the job.
What she can suggest is treating the situation as you would an irresponsible health choice made by a close relative. Your sister is endangering herself, your niece and her friends: This is worth saying to her, even if you are unable to convince her.
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Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.


mercurynews--2020-05-21--Gov. Newsom to issue guidelines for film, TV production to resume

California Gov .
Gavin Newsom told a panel of filmmakers on Wednesday that the state hopes to roll out by next Monday some sectoral guidelines aimed at eventually getting cameras rolling again .
“ We ’ re in real-time drafting guidelines related to productions , TV , commercials … that would allow ( certain ) counties to begin to move forward and allow some modification , allow some work to be done , allow some movement in your industry , ” Newsom said during his latest digital roundtable discussion on economic recovery .
But the governor was quick to caution @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the light goes on everywhere.
” He pointed out that 53 of California ’ s 58 counties are in position to meet the state ’ s criteria for reopening , but Los Angeles County — where much film work happens — “ remains a challenging part of the state for us.
” It could be “ a few weeks behind everybody else , ” he said .
With production in lockdown since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic , anxious members of California ’ s film and TV industry continue to wonder how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Hollywood , and what the new normal will entail .
“ The question I always hear is ‘ When can we shoot , and what is that going to look like ?
’ ” said director-producer Ava DuVernay , who was one of five filmmakers on the panel , which also included Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos .
Netflix , clearly choosing not to wait on California , has productions now going in South Korea , Iceland and Sweden , with each country implementing different safety protocols .
“ In places @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doing testing , but they ’ re doing voluntary quarantine in the weeks leading up to and during production , ” Sarandos explained .
“ In Korea , anyone with a symptom is immediately tested and production is shut down until you get results .
… In Iceland , they don ’ t do ride-sharing to the set .
People are transported separately.
” Added Sarandos , “ The key to this is getting to a place where the safety of everyone on the cast and crew is ensured , and beyond that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confident … to come to sets that are clean and sterilized , that the people they ’ re working with are healthy , and they are being looked after , .
” The pandemic has had a personal impact on DuVernay , who revealed that she lost family member and crew member to the virus .
“ That can ’ t be in vain , ” she said .
On an optimistic note , DuVernay said the shutdown has given rise to “ positive ” new ways of approaching production work , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s a time to rethink things , such as having fewer cast and crew members congregating on sets .
“ I hope that there will be new energy we can take from this , ” she said .
“ … And that can we leave behind that ’ s broken.
” Jon Huertas , a producer on the popular NBC drama series “ This Is Us , ” is concerned about the potential for more delays .
“ It ’ s daunting to all of us , ” he said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ members .
“ We ’ ve talked about maybe not going into production until January , depending on whether or not there ’ s a second wave ( of the virus ) .
… The social-distancing guidelines right now are definitely keeping us nowhere near filming until at least September.
” No matter what guidelines come down the pipe , industry insiders know that implementing additional health and safety measures will drive up already sky-high production costs .
And that could send filmmakers fleeing to other states and countries that offer tax breaks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ certainly appreciate the need for this state to be more competitive in this space , ” Newsom said .
“ The world we invented is now competing against us .
We can ’ t rest on our laurels .
Frankly , there is ample evidence that , for a few decades , we did .
And we ’ ve paid a price for that.
” Other members of Newsom ’ s panel included Stacey Morris , a hair stylist and barber , and Danny Stephens , a key grip .
Former presidential candidate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a member of Gov .
Newsom ’ s economic recovery task force , Secretary of Labor Julie Siu and Public Health Director Dr. Sonia Angell were also in attendance .

California Gov. Gavin Newsom told a panel of filmmakers on Wednesday that the state hopes to roll out by next Monday some sectoral guidelines aimed at eventually getting cameras rolling again.
“We’re in real-time drafting guidelines related to productions, TV, commercials … that would allow (certain) counties to begin to move forward and allow some modification, allow some work to be done, allow some movement in your industry,” Newsom said during his latest digital roundtable discussion on economic recovery.
But the governor was quick to caution that “it doesn’t mean the light goes on everywhere.” He pointed out that 53 of California’s 58 counties are in position to meet the state’s criteria for reopening, but Los Angeles County — where much film work happens — “remains a challenging part of the state for us, still.”
With production in lockdown since mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic, anxious members of California’s film and TV industry continue to wonder how long before it will be lights-camera-action again in Hollywood, and what the new normal will entail.
“The question I always hear is ‘When can we shoot, and what is that going to look like?’” said director-producer Ava DuVernay, who was one of five filmmakers on the panel, which also included Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos.
Netflix, clearly choosing not to wait on California, has productions now going in South Korea, Iceland and Sweden, with each country implementing different safety protocols.
“In places like Sweden, they’re not doing testing, but they’re doing voluntary quarantine in the weeks leading up to and during production,” Sarandos explained. “In Korea, anyone with a symptom is immediately tested and production is shut down until you get results. … In Iceland, they don’t do ride-sharing to the set. People are transported separately.”
Added Sarandos, “The key to this is getting to a place where the safety of everyone on the cast and crew is ensured, and beyond that, they have to feel safe and confident … to come to sets that are clean and sterilized, that the people they’re working with are healthy, and they are being looked after.”
The pandemic has had a personal impact on DuVernay, who revealed that she lost a family member and crew member to the virus.
“That can’t be in vain,” she said.
On an optimistic note, DuVernay, who directed the Oscar-nominated “Selma,” said the shutdown has given rise to “positive” new ways of approaching production work, including virtual writers rooms. She added that it’s a time to rethink things, such as having fewer cast and crew members congregating on sets.
“I hope that there will be new energy we can take from this,” she said. “… And that can we leave behind what’s broken.”
Jon Huertas, a producer on the popular NBC drama series “This Is Us,” said he was concerned about the potential for more delays.
“It’s daunting to all of us,” he said, pointing out the show has 200-plus crew members. “We’ve talked about maybe not going into production until January, depending on whether or not there’s a second wave (of the virus). … The social-distancing guidelines right now are definitely keeping us nowhere near filming until at least September.”
No matter what guidelines come down the pipe, industry insiders know that implementing additional health and safety measures will drive up already sky-high production costs. And that could send filmmakers fleeing to other states and countries offering tax breaks and other financial incentives.
“I certainly appreciate the need for this state to be more competitive in this space,” Newsom said. “The world we invented is now competing against us. We can’t rest on our laurels. Frankly, there is ample evidence that, for a few decades, we did. And we’ve paid a price for that.”
Other members of Newsom’s panel included Stacey Morris, a hair stylist and barber, and Danny Stephens, a key grip.
Former presidential candidate and San Francisco billionaire Tom Steyer, a member of Gov. Newsom’s economic recovery task force, Secretary of Labor Julie A. Su and Public Health Director Dr. Sonia Angell were also part of the panel, which was streamed live on the governor’s YouTube page.


mercurynews--2020-05-21--Police activity disrupts Hayward neighborhood

HAYWARD — Police officers were at an active scene in a neighborhood late Wednesday afternoon , but few details were @ @ @ @ @ Officer Claudia Mao said officers responded to the area of Kelly and Wildwood streets just @ @ @ @ @ declined to confirm social-media reports of an officer-involved shooting .
• Antioch fatal shooting was @ @ @ @ @ , police say • One suspect arrested in violent Bay Area crime spree ; two @ @ @ @ @ : Man dead in second Antioch killing in 7 hours At least two helicopters could @ @ @ @ @ neighborhood , according to a Twitter account that monitors similar activity .

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HAYWARD — A man suspected in a killing at a homeless camp May 1 was fatally shot by police Wednesday afternoon during a traffic stop, authorities said.
The man’s name has not been released.
The man, who police said was in his 20s, was shot after a traffic stop at about 2:30 p.m. Wednesday near Kelly and Wildwood streets.
What led up to the shooting is under investigation. Police have said more than one officer fired shots.
The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
In a news conference Wednesday, Hayward Chief of Police Toney Chaplain said the man killed was being sought in the shooting death of a homeless man on May 1.
The name of the 65-year-old man killed in the homeless camp shooting has not been released. The camp was on Industrial Parkway near Pacific Street.
Police have not yet said how they were able to link the man killed Wednesday to the May 1 killing or what the man’s connection to the neighborhood was.
“At this point, we are still investigating to determine what led to that outcome,” police said in part, asking for community members’ patience. Authorities did not release any other information immediately about how the shooting unfolded.
“We are not releasing any identifying information of the officers. This remains an ongoing investigation as witnesses and officer testimony is gathered and analyzed. Anytime the Hayward Police Officers use force, regardless of degree, it is a serious matter that requires a thorough investigation.”
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The department’s last officer-involved shootings were in May and August of last year
Anyone with information about the case should call Hayward police Det. Eric Mulhern at 510-293-7176.
Check back for updates.
Staff writer Harry Harris contributed to this report. Contact George Kelly at 408-859-5180.


mercurynews--2020-05-21--Letter: Even a ‘moon shot’-level vaccine effort takes time

I have continued to hear wild and less wild claims regarding a COVID-19 vaccine .
Dr. Anthony Fauci has repeatedly @ @ @ @ @ best circumstances that a new vaccine takes a minimum of 18 months to develop , @ @ @ @ @ .
But this week , vaccine development has been promoted as a “ moon shot @ @ @ @ @ Letter : Forecasting state expenses for budget is always a best guess • Letter : @ @ @ @ @ maternal mental health • Letter : Regular folks can conclude what ’ s best for @ @ @ @ @ may help renters — if they could afford rent to begin with • Letter : @ @ @ @ @ jobs until we ’ re free to run our lives It must be kept in @ @ @ @ @ you want , how loud you shout or how much money you spend on a @ @ @ @ @ takes about three days to get to the moon .
Submit your letter to the @ @ @ @ @ more Letters to the Editor

Even a ‘moon shot’-level
vaccine effort takes time
I have continued to hear wild and less wild claims regarding a COVID-19 vaccine.
Dr. Anthony Fauci has repeatedly pointed out that under the best circumstances that a new vaccine takes a minimum of 18 months to develop, test, and properly qualify.
But this week, vaccine development has been promoted as a “moon shot”-level program.
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George Licina
Campbell
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
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mercurynews--2020-05-20--Letter: Forecasting state expenses for budget is always a best guess

I always enjoy and appreciate the insightful observations from Dan Walters , and his column , “ How big is California ’ s budget problem ?
” ( Opinion section , Eastbaytimes.com , May 17 ) , is no exception .
The question poses enormous uncertainty and perhaps anxiety for many of us .
Forecasting state expenses , revenue , employment levels , magnitude of back-stopping by the federal government , the housing market and so forth , in this first of a kind environment , is at best a good guess .
• Letter : Newsom also cut help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Regular folks can conclude what ’ s best for ourselves • Letter : This may help renters — if they could afford rent to begin with • Letter : There won ’ t be jobs until we ’ re free to run our lives In a somewhat similar effort , the models used for the COVID-19 forecasting , proved grossly inaccurate .
Big surprises for Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s financial forecasts when compared to reality should be anticipated .
Interesting though , will be the likely showdown between Gov .
Newsom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government ’ s financial contribution to California ’ s significant budget shortfall .
Sanctuary cities and enforcement of California ’ s immigration laws are likely to take center stage .
Submit your letter to the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Forecasting state expenses for budget a best guess
I always enjoy and appreciate the insightful observations from Dan Walters, and his column, “How big is California’s budget problem?” (Opinion section, Eastbaytimes.com, May 17), is no exception.
The question poses enormous uncertainty and perhaps anxiety for many of us. Forecasting state expenses, revenue, employment levels, magnitude of back-stopping by the federal government, the housing market and so forth, in this first of a kind environment, is at best a good guess.
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Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps In a somewhat similar effort, the models used for the COVID-19 forecasting, proved grossly inaccurate. Big surprises for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s financial forecasts when compared to reality should be anticipated. Interesting though, will be the likely showdown between Gov. Newsom and President Trump over the critical federal government’s financial contribution to California’s significant budget shortfall. Sanctuary cities and enforcement of California’s immigration laws are likely to take center stage.
Chris Kniel
Orinda
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-05-20--Coronavirus: Cohen will serve rest of his sentence at home

President Donald Trump ’ s former personal attorney Michael Cohen will be released early from prison on Thursday and is expected to serve out the remainder of his sentence at home as coronavirus continues to spread behind bars , according to a person familiar with the matter .
Cohen will be released on furlough while he completes the process of being moved to home confinement , the person said .
The Wall Street Journal was first to report on Cohen ’ s impending release .
Cohen was serving a three-year sentence in New York after pleading guilty to lying to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finance charges for facilitating hush money payments to two women who alleged affairs with Trump .
Trump has denied having affairs with the women .
Cohen ’ s shift to home confinement comes as the Justice Department and the Bureau of Prisons have released scores of nonviolent and vulnerable inmates early as the pandemic grew in the corrections system .
Cohen had anticipated being released earlier this month but his release was delayed as the agency ’ s conditions for early release amid the pandemic were narrowed .
Cohen ’ s lawyers did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump had been irked by reports that Cohen was going to be released early due to the pandemic , multiple people familiar with the President ’ s thinking previously told CNN .
Cohen had been a vocal surrogate for Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign , often sparring with reporters and appearing on television to support his longtime client .
But when pleading guilty , he implicated the President , telling a federal judge that he had made the payments “ in coordination with and at the direction of ” Trump , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Individual 1.
” The charges against Cohen punctuated a climactic end to a months-long investigation by the US Attorney ’ s Office for the Southern District of New York , which exposed that he had acted with Trump and his allies , including David Pecker — the CEO of the National Enquirer ’ s publisher , American Media Inc. — to suppress potentially damaging claims against the now-President .
His early release comes in the middle of Trump ’ s reelection campaign and as the President is facing his greatest test : handling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is working on a tell-all book about his time working with Trump , has been served a cease and desist letter from Charles Harder , an attorney for the Trump Organization , requesting he stop working on the book , according to two sources .
Among the reasons cited by Harder , they say , is writing the book would violate a confidentiality agreement and a lawyer ’ s ethical and legal obligations , such as attorney-client privilege .

By David Shortell | CNN
President Donald Trump’s former personal attorney Michael Cohen will be released early from prison on Thursday and is expected to serve out the remainder of his sentence at home as coronavirus continues to spread behind bars, according to a person familiar with the matter.
Cohen will be released on furlough while he completes the process of being moved to home confinement, the person said.
The Wall Street Journal was first to report on Cohen’s impending release.
Cohen was serving a three-year sentence in New York after pleading guilty to lying to Congress, tax charges and two campaign finance charges for facilitating hush money payments to two women who alleged affairs with Trump. Trump has denied having affairs with the women.
Cohen’s shift to home confinement comes as the Justice Department and the Bureau of Prisons have released scores of nonviolent and vulnerable inmates early as the pandemic grew in the corrections system. Cohen had anticipated being released earlier this month but his release was delayed as the agency’s conditions for early release amid the pandemic were narrowed.
Cohen’s lawyers did not respond to requests for comment.
Trump had been irked by reports that Cohen was going to be released early due to the pandemic, multiple people familiar with the President’s thinking previously told CNN.
Cohen had been a vocal surrogate for Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, often sparring with reporters and appearing on television to support his longtime client. But when pleading guilty, he implicated the President, telling a federal judge that he had made the payments “in coordination with and at the direction of” Trump, who prosecutors identified in court filings as “Individual 1.”
The charges against Cohen punctuated a climactic end to a months-long investigation by the US Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, which exposed that he had acted with Trump and his allies, including David Pecker — the CEO of the National Enquirer’s publisher, American Media Inc. — to suppress potentially damaging claims against the now-President.
His early release comes in the middle of Trump’s reelection campaign and as the President is facing his greatest test: handling the pandemic.
And Cohen, who is working on a tell-all book about his time working with Trump, has been served a cease and desist letter from Charles Harder, an attorney for the Trump Organization, requesting he stop working on the book, according to two sources.
Among the reasons cited by Harder, they say, is writing the book would violate a confidentiality agreement and a lawyer’s ethical and legal obligations, such as attorney-client privilege.


mercurynews--2020-05-20--Stanford researcher says coronavirus isn’t as fatal as we thought; critics say he’s missing the poin

Stanford researcher says coronavirus isn’t as fatal as we thought; critics say he’s missing the point

A Stanford statistician says COVID-19 isn ’ t as deadly as we thought — but his calculations in a new study are already under attack from critics who say it overlooks the actual body count .
In an analysis , Dr. John Ioannidis places the fatality rate between 0.02 % -0.4 % , far lower than the 1 % -and-way-up numbers that were once bandied about – and much closer to the 0.1 % death rate of the flu .
“ While COVID-19 is a formidable threat , the fact that its IFR ( infection fatality rate ) is much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ welcome piece of evidence , ” he wrote .
“ At a very broad , bird ’ s eye view level , worldwide the IFR of COVID-19 this season may be in the same ballpark as the IFR of influenza.
” The calculations don ’ t mean that the virus isn ’ t all that dangerous – because the number of lives lost due to COVID-19 , even under tough shelter restrictions , dwarfs the number of deaths due to the flu .
“ COVID death totals will be much much greater than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , an associate professor of public health at UC Irvine and an expert in flu pandemics .
In three months , more than 93,500 Americans have died of COVID-19 and the number keeps climbing .
During the typical six-month flu season , between 24,000 to 62,000 people die .
Because there is an annual vaccine , “ not everyone is susceptible to the flu .
Everyone is susceptible to COVID-19 , ” Noymer said .
“ These flu comparisons are missing the forest for the trees.
” Determining death rates is challenging in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recently , we ’ ve based our estimates on confirmed cases , which are easy to count , rather than infections , which are not .
That ’ s overestimated the true lethality of the virus .
The recent emergence of antibody testing — blood tests that show whether someone has been infected in the past , even without symptoms — makes it possible , finally , to ask : What is the real risk ?
It ’ s a key question facing communities , which are braced for resurgent waves of infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a vaccine .
Ioannidis , a professor of medicine and epidemiology , has long argued that the lockdowns pose a bigger threat to public health than the COVID-19 virus .
One of the authors of a pilloried Santa Clara County study , he has repeatedly questioned the prevailing wisdom of our current shelter-at-home strategy .
In his new analysis — a “ pre-print ” that is posted online , but not published in a scientific journal and not yet peer-reviewed – he selected 12 studies that measured seroprevalence , which show how many @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the COVID-19 virus He estimated the Infection Fatality Rate by dividing the number of deaths among the people in those studies by the estimated number of people with antibodies .
The highest rates , from 0.25 to 0.4 % , were in locations where infections occurred among elderly citizens or healthcare workers .
The lowest rates were found in studies of blood donors , who tend to be younger and healthy .
Critics charge that he based his calculations on flawed studies .
And they question the selection of studies — including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ instance , but not including a recent Spanish seroprevalence study with an estimated IFR of 1 % to 1.3 % — triple the highest estimate in his review .
“ A lot of the included studies had issues , and contradicted evidence from numerous places in the world , making the review itself a bit problematic , ” said Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz , an Australian epidemiologist who studies chronic disease .
UC Irvine ’ s Noymer agrees that the death rate is lower than initially estimated .
That is to be expected , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ count and an unknown virus , we prepared for the worst .
What matters is that COVID-19 will kill more people in the United States this year than even our most severe flu season , he said .
• Letter : Forecasting state expenses for budget is always a best guess • Coronavirus : Cohen will serve rest of his sentence at home • As virus toll rises , Brazil expands use of unproven drug • How coronavirus created the Bay Area ’ s new mile-long breadlines • Letter : Regular folks can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We shouldn ’ t fetishize a number when we can look out the window at an epidemic and see the real situation , ” he said .
“ We have seen more COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. in three months – with a lockdown – than in the six-month flu season , without a lockdown .
”

A Stanford statistician says COVID-19 isn’t as deadly as we thought — but his calculations in a new study are already under attack from critics who say it overlooks the actual body count.
In an analysis, Dr. John Ioannidis places the fatality rate between 0.02%-0.4%, far lower than the 1%-and-way-up numbers that were once bandied about – and much closer to the 0.1% death rate of the flu.
“While COVID-19 is a formidable threat, the fact that its IFR (infection fatality rate) is much lower than originally feared, is a welcome piece of evidence,” he wrote. “At a very broad, bird’s eye view level, worldwide the IFR of COVID-19 this season may be in the same ballpark as the IFR of influenza.”
The calculations don’t mean that the virus isn’t all that dangerous – because the number of lives lost due to COVID-19, even under tough shelter restrictions, dwarfs the number of deaths due to the flu.
“COVID death totals will be much much greater than the flu,” said Andrew Noymer, an associate professor of public health at UC Irvine and an expert in flu pandemics. In three months, more than 93,500 Americans have died of COVID-19 and the number keeps climbing. During the typical six-month flu season, between 24,000 to 62,000 people die.
Because there is an annual vaccine, “not everyone is susceptible to the flu. Everyone is susceptible to COVID-19,” Noymer said. “These flu comparisons are missing the forest for the trees.”
Determining death rates is challenging in the middle of a pandemic. Until recently, we’ve based our estimates on confirmed cases, which are easy to count, rather than infections, which are not. That’s overestimated the true lethality of the virus.
The recent emergence of antibody testing — blood tests that show whether someone has been infected in the past, even without symptoms — makes it possible, finally, to ask: What is the real risk?
It’s a key question facing communities, which are braced for resurgent waves of infection that could last until there’s a vaccine.
Ioannidis, a professor of medicine and epidemiology, has long argued that the lockdowns pose a bigger threat to public health than the COVID-19 virus. One of the authors of a pilloried Santa Clara County study, he has repeatedly questioned the prevailing wisdom of our current shelter-at-home strategy.
In his new analysis — a “pre-print” that is posted online, but not published in a scientific journal and not yet peer-reviewed – he selected 12 studies that measured seroprevalence, which show how many people in population samples have developed antibodies for the COVID-19 virus.
He estimated the Infection Fatality Rate by dividing the number of deaths among the people in those studies by the estimated number of people with antibodies.
The highest rates, from 0.25 to 0.4%, were in locations where infections occurred among elderly citizens or healthcare workers. The lowest rates were found in studies of blood donors, who tend to be younger and healthy.
Critics charge that he based his calculations on flawed studies. And they question the selection of studies — including deaths in healthy blood donors, for instance, but not including a recent Spanish seroprevalence study with an estimated IFR of 1% to 1.3% — triple the highest estimate in his review.
“A lot of the included studies had issues, and contradicted evidence from numerous places in the world, making the review itself a bit problematic,” said Gideon Meyerowitz-Katz, an Australian epidemiologist who studies chronic disease.
UC Irvine’s Noymer agrees that the death rate is lower than initially estimated. That is to be expected, he said; faced with a growing case count and an unknown virus, we prepared for the worst.
What matters is that COVID-19 will kill more people in the United States this year than even our most severe flu season, he said. Related Articles Health | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
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“We shouldn’t fetishize a number when we can look out the window at an epidemic and see the real situation,” he said. “We have seen more COVID-19 deaths in the U.S. in three months – with a lockdown – than in the six-month flu season, without a lockdown.”


mercurynews--2020-05-20--As virus toll rises, Brazil expands use of unproven drug

RIO DE JANEIRO — President Jair Bolsonaro unveiled rules Wednesday expanding the prescription of chloroquine , the predecessor of an anti-malaria drug promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump , for coronavirus patients despite a lack of clinical proof that it is effective .
Chloroquine was already being used in Brazil for COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized in serious condition , and under the new regulations , it can be given to people with lighter symptoms such as abdominal pain , cough or fever , according to the Health Ministry .
“ There is still no scientific evidence , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and worldwide , ” Bolsonaro , who has likened the virus to a “ little flu ” and feuded with local governments over their stay-at-home measures , said via his official Facebook page .
“ We are at war : ‘ Worse than being defeated is the shame of not having fought . '
” More than 291,000 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Brazil , the third most in the world after the United States and Russia , and the announcement came a day after the country ’ s single-day death toll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of more than 1,100 .
Officials said Wednesday that 888 more died in the subsequent 24 hours .
Trump has promoted treating COVID-19 with hydroxychloroquine , a variant considered less toxic and more effective than chloroquine , and he announced Monday that he was taking the drug as a precaution .
No large , rigorous studies have found either drug safe or effective for preventing or treating the virus .
Bolsonaro , a conservative populist and nationalist , has long expressed admiration for Trump and enthusiasm for chloroquine .
Brazil ’ s new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gen. Eduardo Pazuello , who had no health experience prior to becoming the ministry ’ s No .
2 official in April .
Pazuello ’ s appointment to the top job came after then-Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta was fired last month for publicly supporting state governors who shut down nonessential businesses and adopted other measures against the virus , and after Mandetta ’ s replacement , Nelson Teich , resigned last week .
Teich did not explain why he left , but he had publicly disagreed with Bolsonaro over chloroquine .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the capital , Brasilia , Bolsonar suggested Wednesday that he has no plans to replace Pazuello : “ This one is going to stay for a long time.
” Officials say nearly 19,000 people have died of the coronavirus in Brazil so far , and experts warn that low testing rates mean the true number of cases is likely far higher .
Health systems in various states have gone over capacity , with overwhelmed intensive care units unable to take in new COVID-19 patients , and experts say rising numbers of people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backhoes to dig hundreds of graves at a time , and Manaus in the heart of the Amazon rainforest is burying the dead in mass graves .
Gen. Pazuello appointed nine more military officers to the Health Ministry on Tuesday , Folha de S. Paulo reported , including his No .
2 , Col. Antonio Elcio Franco Filho .
Also Wednesday , Bolsonaro announced the resignation of Culture Secretary Regina Duarte , a former soap opera star who was recently criticized by many in the opposition and the arts community for downplaying torture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warned against the dangers of “ unbearable morbidity ” around the virus .
Bolsonaro continues to oppose governors and mayors who are renewing stay-at-home recommendations or introducing stricter measures .
• Letter : Forecasting state expenses for budget is always a best guess • Coronavirus : Cohen will serve rest of his sentence at home • Coronavirus : Virus isn ’ t as fatal as we thought , even as death toll climbs • How coronavirus created the Bay Area ’ s new mile-long breadlines • Letter : Regular folks can conclude what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ army captain has argued in favor of restarting the economy , even though experts say Brazil has yet to reach the peak of the pandemic .
He believes that containment measures are too painful in a country where tens of millions of workers depend on low-paid jobs in the informal sector .
Several large observational studies , including one in U.S. hospitals for veterans , have not found benefit from hydroxychloroquine for treating COVID-19 .
Earlier this year scientists in Brazil stopped part of a study of chloroquine after seeing heart rhythm problems @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doses being compared .

By Diane Jeantet | Associated Press
RIO DE JANEIRO — President Jair Bolsonaro unveiled rules Wednesday expanding the prescription of chloroquine, the predecessor of an anti-malaria drug promoted by U.S. President Donald Trump, for coronavirus patients despite a lack of clinical proof that it is effective.
Chloroquine was already being used in Brazil for COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized in serious condition, and under the new regulations, it can be given to people with lighter symptoms such as abdominal pain, cough or fever, according to the Health Ministry.
“There is still no scientific evidence, but it is being monitored and used in Brazil and worldwide,” Bolsonaro, who has likened the virus to a “little flu” and feuded with local governments over their stay-at-home measures, said via his official Facebook page. “We are at war: ‘Worse than being defeated is the shame of not having fought.'”
More than 291,000 coronavirus cases have been confirmed in Brazil, the third most in the world after the United States and Russia, and the announcement came a day after the country’s single-day death toll from the virus hit a new high of more than 1,100. Officials said Wednesday that 888 more died in the subsequent 24 hours.
Trump has promoted treating COVID-19 with hydroxychloroquine, a variant considered less toxic and more effective than chloroquine, and he announced Monday that he was taking the drug as a precaution. No large, rigorous studies have found either drug safe or effective for preventing or treating the virus.
Bolsonaro, a conservative populist and nationalist, has long expressed admiration for Trump and enthusiasm for chloroquine. Brazil’s new guidelines were approved by interim Health Minister Gen. Eduardo Pazuello, who had no health experience prior to becoming the ministry’s No. 2 official in April.
Pazuello’s appointment to the top job came after then-Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta was fired last month for publicly supporting state governors who shut down nonessential businesses and adopted other measures against the virus, and after Mandetta’s replacement, Nelson Teich, resigned last week. Teich did not explain why he left, but he had publicly disagreed with Bolsonaro over chloroquine.
Speaking to a group of street cleaners in the capital, Brasilia, Bolsonar suggested Wednesday that he has no plans to replace Pazuello: “This one is going to stay for a long time.”
Officials say nearly 19,000 people have died of the coronavirus in Brazil so far, and experts warn that low testing rates mean the true number of cases is likely far higher.
Health systems in various states have gone over capacity, with overwhelmed intensive care units unable to take in new COVID-19 patients, and experts say rising numbers of people are dying at home.
Cemeteries are using backhoes to dig hundreds of graves at a time, and Manaus in the heart of the Amazon rainforest is burying the dead in mass graves.
Gen. Pazuello appointed nine more military officers to the Health Ministry on Tuesday, Folha de S. Paulo reported, including his No. 2, Col. Antonio Elcio Franco Filho.
Also Wednesday, Bolsonaro announced the resignation of Culture Secretary Regina Duarte, a former soap opera star who was recently criticized by many in the opposition and the arts community for downplaying torture during the 1964-1985 dictatorship and who had warned against the dangers of “unbearable morbidity” around the virus.
Bolsonaro continues to oppose governors and mayors who are renewing stay-at-home recommendations or introducing stricter measures.
Related Articles National News | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
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College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds National News | One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining
One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining National News | Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms
Long Covid cases in US adults are on the decline, but many continue to struggle with symptoms National News | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge The former army captain has argued in favor of restarting the economy, even though experts say Brazil has yet to reach the peak of the pandemic. He believes that containment measures are too painful in a country where tens of millions of workers depend on low-paid jobs in the informal sector.
Several large observational studies, including one in U.S. hospitals for veterans, have not found benefit from hydroxychloroquine for treating COVID-19. Earlier this year scientists in Brazil stopped part of a study of chloroquine after seeing heart rhythm problems among patients taking a higher of two doses being compared.


mercurynews--2020-05-20--Watch live: Wind turbines on the Altamont Pass generate power

CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the video on a mobile device The Altamont Pass region in eastern Alameda and Contra Costa counties is home to the nation ’ s oldest wind farms , built on land leased from cattle ranchers .
Wind power started in California in 1981 when the Altamont wind farm in Alameda County was built as a reaction to the Arab oil embargo of the 1970s .
Currently , five wind farms operate in the Altamont Pass ; under ideal conditions , they can generate 266.2 megawatts of electricity .
The average wind @ @ @ @ @ @ @ provide electricity for about 400 homes .
“ Wind turbines work on a simple principle : instead of using electricity to make wind — like a fan — wind turbines use wind to make electricity .
Wind turns the propeller-like blades of a turbine around a rotor , which spins a generator , which creates electricity , ” according to the a U.S. Department of Energy website .
But not everyone is sold on wind power .
According to the National Audubon Society , “ Wind turbines kill an estimated 140,000 to 328,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ making it the most threatening form of green energy.
” Following a 2010 settlement between the Audubon Society and wind farm operators in the Altamont Pass , older turbines that use technology from the 1970s and ’ 80s have been removed or replaced with larger slower spinning wind turbines , which are more bird-friendly .
The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that 300 billion kilowatt-hours , or 7.3 % of the 4.12 trillion kWh of electricity generated at utility-scale electricity generation facilities in the United States , will come from wind power in @ @

CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the video on a mobile device
The Altamont Pass region in eastern Alameda and Contra Costa counties is home to the nation’s oldest wind farms, built on land leased from cattle ranchers.
Wind power started in California in 1981 when the Altamont wind farm in Alameda County was built as a reaction to the Arab oil embargo of the 1970s.
Currently, five wind farms operate in the Altamont Pass; under ideal conditions, they can generate 266.2 megawatts of electricity. The average wind turbine producing 2 megawatts of power can provide electricity for about 400 homes.
“Wind turbines work on a simple principle: instead of using electricity to make wind — like a fan — wind turbines use wind to make electricity. Wind turns the propeller-like blades of a turbine around a rotor, which spins a generator, which creates electricity,” according to the a U.S. Department of Energy website.
But not everyone is sold on wind power. According to the National Audubon Society, “Wind turbines kill an estimated 140,000 to 328,000 birds each year in North America, making it the most threatening form of green energy.”
Following a 2010 settlement between the Audubon Society and wind farm operators in the Altamont Pass, older turbines that use technology from the 1970s and ’80s have been removed or replaced with larger slower spinning wind turbines, which are more bird-friendly.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration estimates that 300 billion kilowatt-hours, or 7.3% of the 4.12 trillion kWh of electricity generated at utility-scale electricity generation facilities in the United States, will come from wind power in 2020.
Time-lapse video of wind turbines along the Altamont Pass
CLICK HERE if you are having a problem viewing the video on a mobile device


mercurynews--2020-05-20--Coronavirus: University of California campuses will open in the fall, Napolitano says

University of California president Janet Napolitano said Wednesday that “ every campus will be open and offering instruction ” this fall despite the coronavirus outbreak that has shuttered most campus activity across the state .
“ The question will be how much of that instruction is in-person versus how much is done remotely , ” Napolitano added during remarks to the UC Board of Regents .
The pandemic caused a $ 1.2 billion loss system-wide from the time the campuses shut down in the middle of March through the end of April .
Whereas the California State University announced last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ online-only instruction for the fall , the UC is planning for in-person classes .
Napolitano said she “ anticipates that most , if not all of our campuses , will operate in some kind of hybrid mode.
” The so-called hybrid mode of higher education involves a mix of online and in-person instruction .
Many universities inside and outside California are considering the approach , which eliminates large , in-person lectures that could be super-spreader events that endanger students and the faculty .
Those lectures are moved to an online format , while @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person .
Napolitano indicated that each UC campus would be required to “ meet system-wide thresholds ” for Covid-19 testing , contact tracing and isolation before being allowed to open .
Once the standards are met , campuses “ can consider whether to maintain fully remote instruction in the fall or return some portion of their students to campus.
” A decision is expected in the middle of June .
“ These decisions , ” Napolitano added , “ all must be made in the context of local , state and federal public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for students to return — even at less than full capacity — is considered essential for the Cal and UCLA football teams to compete in the fall .
In addition to Napolitano ’ s remarks , Cal chancellor Carol Christ provided an update for the regents on the financial state of the Berkeley campus : Cal absorbed a $ 49 million hit this spring from coronavirus and projects the impact on the 2020-21 budget to be in the $ 150 million to $ 250 million range .
Two revenue streams , athletics and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ auxiliary ” enterprises — are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus impact .
“ Losses in auxiliaries , ” Christ said , “ may escalate sharply depending on how densely we are able to populate the residence halls and whether we have a fall sports season.
” The Cal football program generates the vast majority of the athletic department ’ s total annual revenue ( $ 90 million , approximately ) and provides the financial foundation for the Bears ’ renown Olympic sports .
Christ said the university is “ trying to hold to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make cuts to the academic enterprise to make up for losses in auxiliaries.
” The UC system anticipates a 10 percent reduction in state funding for 2020-21 based on the latest budget estimates .
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University of California president Janet Napolitano said Wednesday that “every campus will be open and offering instruction” this fall despite the coronavirus outbreak that has shuttered most campus activity across the state.
“The question will be how much of that instruction is in-person versus how much is done remotely,” Napolitano added during remarks to the UC Board of Regents.
The pandemic caused a $1.2 billion loss system-wide from the time the campuses shut down in the middle of March through the end of April.
Whereas the California State University announced last week that it’s preparing for online-only instruction for the fall, the UC is planning for in-person classes.
[vemba-video id=”us/2020/05/13/cal-state-universities-close-campuses-fall-semester-intv-berman-newday-vpx.cnn”]
Napolitano said she “anticipates that most, if not all of our campuses, will operate in some kind of hybrid mode.”
The so-called hybrid mode of higher education involves a mix of online and in-person instruction.
Many universities inside and outside California are considering the approach, which eliminates large, in-person lectures that could be super-spreader events that endanger students and the faculty.
Those lectures are moved to an online format, while small classes and labs are held in person.
Napolitano indicated that each UC campus would be required to “meet system-wide thresholds” for Covid-19 testing, contact tracing and isolation before being allowed to open.
Once the standards are met, campuses “can consider whether to maintain fully remote instruction in the fall or return some portion of their students to campus.”
A decision is expected in the middle of June.
“These decisions,” Napolitano added, “all must be made in the context of local, state and federal public health restrictions.”
The opening of campuses for students to return — even at less than full capacity — is considered essential for the Cal and UCLA football teams to compete in the fall.
In addition to Napolitano’s remarks, Cal chancellor Carol Christ provided an update for the regents on the financial state of the Berkeley campus:
Cal absorbed a $49 million hit this spring from coronavirus and projects the impact on the 2020-21 budget to be in the $150 million to $250 million range.
Two revenue streams, athletics and residence halls — what Christ called the “auxiliary” enterprises — are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus impact.
“Losses in auxiliaries,” Christ said, “may escalate sharply depending on how densely we are able to populate the residence halls and whether we have a fall sports season.”
The Cal football program generates the vast majority of the athletic department’s total annual revenue ($90 million, approximately) and provides the financial foundation for the Bears’ renown Olympic sports.
Christ said the university is “trying to hold to the principle that we shouldn’t make cuts to the academic enterprise to make up for losses in auxiliaries.”
The UC system anticipates a 10 percent reduction in state funding for 2020-21 based on the latest budget estimates.
Support the Hotline: Several Hotline articles will remain free each month (as will the newsletter), but for access to all content, you’ll need to subscribe. I’ve secured a rate of $1 per week for a full year or — introductory offer alert! — just 99 cents for the first month, with the option to cancel anytime. Click here. And thanks for your loyalty.
*** Send suggestions, comments and tips (confidentiality guaranteed) to pac12hotline@bayareanewsgroup.com or call 408-920-5716
*** Follow me on Twitter: @WilnerHotline
*** Pac-12 Hotline is not endorsed or sponsored by the Pac-12 Conference, and the views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the Conference.


mercurynews--2020-05-20--Photos: Despite coronavirus concerns, U.S. national parks begin opening up

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the gallery on your mobile device .
U.S. National Parks have started the process of opening back up after being closed because of the coronavirus pandemic .
Some places such as the Great Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border have been welcoming visitors since May 9 .
Others such as Joshua Tree National Park have opened this week .
Still , other sites such as the Grand Canyon have opened and closed again .
The South Rim of the national park in Arizona allowed visitors on May 15 but then closed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ accept tourists again May 22 , just in time for Memorial Day weekend .
No matter where they go , visitors shouldn ’ t expect business as usual .
All parks are going through phased reopenings .
In the meantime , visitors have been flocking to places that are already open such as Yellowstone , Grand Teton National Park and Zion National Park , which have seen a flood of tourists .
Many of them don ’ t have masks on nor are they following social distancing guidelines , according to a report @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Park has plans to reopen in early June but with limits .
The photo gallery above shows some of the parks in the process of reopening .
Other images show what awaits tourists once these national treasures finally open .
For more images , follow our Instagram account .

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U.S. National Parks have started the process of opening back up after being closed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Some places such as the Great Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border have been welcoming visitors since May 9. Others such as Joshua Tree National Park have opened this week. Still, other sites such as the Grand Canyon have opened and closed again. The South Rim of the national park in Arizona allowed visitors on May 15 but then closed a few days and is scheduled to accept tourists again May 22, just in time for Memorial Day weekend.
No matter where they go, visitors shouldn’t expect business as usual. All parks are going through phased reopenings. In the meantime, visitors have been flocking to places that are already open such as Yellowstone, Grand Teton National Park and Zion National Park, which have seen a flood of tourists. Many of them don’t have masks on nor are they following social distancing guidelines, according to a report.
Closer to home, Yosemite National Park has plans to reopen in early June but with limits.
The photo gallery above shows some of the parks in the process of reopening. Other images show what awaits tourists once these national treasures finally open.
For more images, follow our Instagram account.


mercurynews--2020-05-21--Letter: China wouldn’t let the world learn Taiwan’s virus plan

Re : “ WHO bows to calls from countries for independent virus probe ” ( Eastbaytimes.com , May 18 ) : The U.S. news media consistently fails to mention that Taiwan was expelled ( 2016 ) from membership in the World Health Organization , due to pressure from Communist China , whose control over the WHO is likely far greater than even President Trump has alleged .
A report by the Council on Foreign Affairs stated that “ As of April 9 , Taiwan had 380 confirmed cases and 5 deaths , a stunningly low number for a population of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given the high level of travel between China and Taiwan.
” The WHO ’ s 2020 World Health Assembly , which was a virtual conference held May 18-19 , discussed approaches to control the COVID-19 pandemic .
Yet Taiwan , with the most successful preventive plan on earth , was excluded from that conference .
Its expertise in controlling COVID-19 could not be shared with the nations of the world .
• Letter : At curbside pickup , staff came to my car window , unmasked • NASCAR : Hamlin beats the rain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in round two at Darlington The basis for that exclusion : pure politics .
China would not allow the world ’ s 7.8 billion people to benefit from Taiwan ’ s expertise and experience .
That is the power of China ’ s dictatorship .
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China wouldn’t let world
learn Taiwan’s virus plan
Re: “WHO bows to calls from countries for independent virus probe” (Eastbaytimes.com, May 18):
The U.S. news media consistently fails to mention that Taiwan was expelled (2016) from membership in the World Health Organization, due to pressure from Communist China, whose control over the WHO is likely far greater than even President Trump has alleged.
A report by the Council on Foreign Affairs stated that “As of April 9, Taiwan had 380 confirmed cases and 5 deaths, a stunningly low number for a population of 23.6 million. This is particularly impressive given the high level of travel between China and Taiwan.”
The WHO’s 2020 World Health Assembly, which was a virtual conference held May 18-19, discussed approaches to control the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet Taiwan, with the most successful preventive plan on earth, was excluded from that conference. Its expertise in controlling COVID-19 could not be shared with the nations of the world.
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COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge The basis for that exclusion: pure politics. China would not allow the world’s 7.8 billion people to benefit from Taiwan’s expertise and experience. That is the power of China’s dictatorship.
Fred Korr
Oakland
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mercurynews--2020-05-21--49ers Raheem Mostert following lead of rushing king Frank Gore

Raheem Mostert sat alone in the 49ers cafeteria in 2016 , trying to find his way onto his seventh team in two years , when Joe Staley sat down and began a cherished mentorship .
“ I just wanted to pick his brain , so I asked him , ‘ What does it take for a guy like me to be like Frank Gore ?
’ ” Mostert recalled Wednesday in a video conference .
“ Because Frank Gore is my idol and I love watching him play , and I know Joe was blocking for him when he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Hey , Frankie G , he likes to work.
’ … You ’ ve got to be like Frank , man .
You ’ re a great running back .
I can just tell by your personality .
Frankie G. works really hard.
” Mostert ’ s workload should skyrocket this coming season , having emerged into a starring role on last season ’ s road to the Super Bowl .
As Gore worked his way atop the 49ers ’ all-time rushing list from 2005-14 , he averaged 257 carries per season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carries .
For perspective , Mostert had 137 carries last regular season — the same as Tevin Coleman — before erupting for 53 carries and 336 yards and five touchdowns in the playoffs .
That included a 220-yard , four-touchdown masterpiece in the NFC Championship win over the Green Bay Packers .
“ I just try to live up to that expectation of Frankie G. and try to give it my all , ” Mostert added .
Mostert , 28 , didn ’ t have much wear on his tires before that season @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of his 41 carries his first four years in the NFL , 33 came in his final five games of 2018 before a season-ending forearm fracture .
Mostert bulked up his speedy frame this offseason in his next step to mimic Gore ’ s 49ers grind ; Gore joined the New York Jets this offseason after stints in Indianapolis , Miami and Buffalo .
“ Just trying to incorporate things in my daily workout so I can take those hits and be one of those guys getting 200 carries , ” Mostert @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get prepared for that and the only way I know how is to get bulky and stronger.
” The 49ers shipped to his Cleveland home a strip for his grass that outlines offensive linemen ’ s positions .
“ They wanted me to work more on my aiming points for the run game , ” Mostert said .
“ I ’ m trying to elevate my game.
” He ’ s also intent on getting more multi-dimensional as a receiving option , both out of the backfield or motioning into the slot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Florida high school days and at Purdue , he had just 14 receptions last regular season and three in the postseason last year .
Staley may have retired , but his replacement at left tackle , Trent Williams , already has Mostert ’ s admiration .
“ He ’ s probably one of the most athletic guys I ’ ve seen thus far , on tape .
I ’ m so excited to work with him and the entire O-line , because everyone else is athletic , ” Mostert added .
Despite Matt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mostert says the 49ers running backs will remain a close-knit group , one that brings back Coleman and Jeff Wilson Jr. to compete with Jerick McKinnon and rookies Salvon Ahmed and Jamycal Hasty .
On McKinnon ’ s expected debut after two seasons lost to a knee injury , Mostert said : “ I ’ m trying to pick his brain route-running wise and he ’ s trying to pick my brain with the run scheme .
We ’ re doing a great job right now and I can ’ t wait @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s doubting him on.
” • Coronavirus : 49ers Raheem Mostert says ‘ we still have to defeat ’ COVID-19 • 49ers Dre Greenlaw ready for more after his epic stop in Seattle • COVID-19 has NFL considering helmet face guards that work like surgical masks

Raheem Mostert sat alone in the 49ers cafeteria in 2016, trying to find his way onto his seventh team in two years, when Joe Staley sat down and began a cherished mentorship.
“I just wanted to pick his brain, so I asked him, ‘What does it take for a guy like me to be like Frank Gore?’ ” Mostert recalled Wednesday in a video conference. “Because Frank Gore is my idol and I love watching him play, and I know Joe was blocking for him when he was here.”
Staley’s response: “Hey, Frankie G, he likes to work.’ … You’ve got to be like Frank, man. You’re a great running back. I can just tell by your personality. Frankie G. works really hard.”
Mostert’s workload should skyrocket this coming season, having emerged into a starring role on last season’s road to the Super Bowl.
As Gore worked his way atop the 49ers’ all-time rushing list from 2005-14, he averaged 257 carries per season after his rookie debut totaling just 127 carries.
For perspective, Mostert had 137 carries last regular season — the same as Tevin Coleman — before erupting for 53 carries and 336 yards and five touchdowns in the playoffs. That included a 220-yard, four-touchdown masterpiece in the NFC Championship win over the Green Bay Packers.
“I just try to live up to that expectation of Frankie G. and try to give it my all,” Mostert added.
Mostert, 28, didn’t have much wear on his tires before that season, at least as a running back. Of his 41 carries his first four years in the NFL, 33 came in his final five games of 2018 before a season-ending forearm fracture.
Mostert bulked up his speedy frame this offseason in his next step to mimic Gore’s 49ers grind; Gore joined the New York Jets this offseason after stints in Indianapolis, Miami and Buffalo.
“Just trying to incorporate things in my daily workout so I can take those hits and be one of those guys getting 200 carries,” Mostert said. “I’ve got to get prepared for that and the only way I know how is to get bulky and stronger.”
The 49ers shipped to his Cleveland home a strip for his grass that outlines offensive linemen’s positions.
“They wanted me to work more on my aiming points for the run game,” Mostert said. “I’m trying to elevate my game.”
He’s also intent on getting more multi-dimensional as a receiving option, both out of the backfield or motioning into the slot. A former wide receiver in his Florida high school days and at Purdue, he had just 14 receptions last regular season and three in the postseason last year.
Staley may have retired, but his replacement at left tackle, Trent Williams, already has Mostert’s admiration. “He’s probably one of the most athletic guys I’ve seen thus far, on tape. I’m so excited to work with him and the entire O-line, because everyone else is athletic,” Mostert added.
Despite Matt Breida being dealt to the Miami Dolphins, Mostert says the 49ers running backs will remain a close-knit group, one that brings back Coleman and Jeff Wilson Jr. to compete with Jerick McKinnon and rookies Salvon Ahmed and Jamycal Hasty.


mercurynews--2020-05-21--Letter: At curbside pickup, staff came to my car window, unmasked

This is not about the general public wearing masks or not .
That ’ s a bigger , politically-charged issue .
This is specifically about people in customer-facing service positions .
Today , I went to a local store for a curbside pickup .
Within a couple minutes , an employee came right up to my car window , unmasked .
Anyone employed in a position of service should be wearing a mask .
Covering the nose .
Unmasked people in service positions , however politely they greet us , are also saying , “ I don ’ t care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” That ’ s mostly what wearing a mask is for , right ?
To protect other people , particularly those at higher risk ?
• Letter : Gains in global health are threatened by COVID-19 • Letter : Forecasting state expenses for budget is always a best guess Managers , it ’ s on you .
Make masks mandatory , and enforce it .
To let this slide is to tell us , “ We don ’ t value our customers ’ business enough to make this a hard rule.
” Submit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ form Read more Letters to the Editor

Store staff came to my
car window, unmasked
This is not about the general public wearing masks or not. That’s a bigger, politically-charged issue. This is specifically about people in customer-facing service positions.
Today, I went to a local store for a curbside pickup. Within a couple minutes, an employee came right up to my car window, unmasked.
Anyone employed in a position of service should be wearing a mask. Covering the nose.
Unmasked people in service positions, however politely they greet us, are also saying, “I don’t care enough about you to wear a mask.”
That’s mostly what wearing a mask is for, right? To protect other people, particularly those at higher risk?
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Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path Letters to the Editor | Letters: Local solar | Titan resources | Activism helps Managers, it’s on you. Make masks mandatory, and enforce it. To let this slide is to tell us, “We don’t value our customers’ business enough to make this a hard rule.”
Nick Glusovich
San Jose
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Bridge: May 21, 2020

“ I was South , ” a fan writes , “ and upgraded my hand due to the five-card suit , three tens and prime values .
When partner responded one diamond , I jumped to 2NT .
He bid 3NT.
” West led a heart , and my fan took the queen and tried the K-A of diamonds .
When no queen fell , she led the eight of clubs to finesse .
“ West took the king and led the king of hearts , ” my fan writes .
“ I ducked , won the next heart and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ won the next club , took the queen of diamonds and led a spade , and I won only eight tricks .
“ My partner says if I open 1NT , we can stop low .
What say you ?
” South ’ s hand evaluation was fine .
To make 3NT , she leads the ten of diamonds to dummy ’ s jack at Trick Two .
If East wins , South has five diamond tricks and nine in all .
If East ducks the first diamond , South lets the eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overtakes the king of diamonds with the ace to finesse in clubs again , winning four clubs , two diamonds , two hearts and a spade .
You hold : S Q 8 3 2 H K 10 6 5 2 D 6 4 C K 3 .
Your partner opens one diamond , you respond one heart and he bids two clubs .
What do you say ?
ANSWER : You can not rebid the ratty hearts , and a bid of two spades or 2NT would show more strength .
Bid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than clubs , so that contract will be playable .
The problem illustrates the folly of opening one diamond , then bidding two clubs on a hand like 9 5 , A 3 , K 7 3 2 , A Q 9 6 4 .

“I was South,” a fan writes, “and upgraded my hand due to the five-card suit, three tens and prime values. When partner responded one diamond, I jumped to 2NT. He bid 3NT.”
West led a heart, and my fan took the queen and tried the K-A of diamonds. When no queen fell, she led the eight of clubs to finesse.
“West took the king and led the king of hearts,” my fan writes. “I ducked, won the next heart and cashed the ace of clubs. East won the next club, took the queen of diamonds and led a spade, and I won only eight tricks.
“My partner says if I open 1NT, we can stop low. What say you?”
NINE TRICKS
South’s hand evaluation was fine. To make 3NT, she leads the ten of diamonds to dummy’s jack at Trick Two. If East wins, South has five diamond tricks and nine in all.
If East ducks the first diamond, South lets the eight of clubs ride. Later, she overtakes the king of diamonds with the ace to finesse in clubs again, winning four clubs, two diamonds, two hearts and a spade.
DAILY QUESTION
You hold: S Q 8 3 2 H K 10 6 5 2 D 6 4 C K 3. Your partner opens one diamond, you respond one heart and he bids two clubs. What do you say?
ANSWER: You cannot rebid the ratty hearts, and a bid of two spades or 2NT would show more strength. Bid two diamonds. Partner suggests longer diamonds than clubs, so that contract will be playable. The problem illustrates the folly of opening one diamond, then bidding two clubs on a hand like 9 5, A 3, K 7 3 2, A Q 9 6 4.
South dealer
N-S vulnerable
NORTH
S J 4
H 8 3
D A J 9 8 7 3
C J 8 2
WEST
S Q 8 3 2
H K 10 6 5 2
D 6 4
C K 3
EAST
S K 9 7 6
H J 9 4
D Q 5 2
C Q 6 5
SOUTH
S A 10 5
H A Q 7
D K 10
C A 10 9 7 4
South West North East
1 C Pass 1 D Pass
2 NT Pass 3 NT All Pass
Opening lead — H 5
(C)2020 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.


mercurynews--2020-05-21--Word Game: May 21, 2020

Word Game: May 21, 2020

Can you find 29 or more words in MISOGAMIST ?
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 — MISOGAMIST (MISOGAMIST: mih-SAH-guh-mist: One who hates marriage.)
Average mark 20 words
Time limit 35 minutes
Can you find 29 or more words in MISOGAMIST? The list will be published tomorrow.
YESTERDAY’S WORD — SNAPPILY sail sappy slain slap slay slip slippy snail snap
snappy snip snippy span spay spin spinal spiny splay nail nippy apply pail pain palsy
pansy piny plain plan play inlay inly lain liny lisp
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--2020-05-21--Horoscopes May 21, 2020: Lisa Edelstein, spice things up and do things differently.

Happy Birthday : Spice things up , and do things differently .
Take time to explore something unfamiliar .
Learn all you can , and reach out to those who have something unique to offer .
Consider what you can do to make your life better , relationships stable and future bright .
Discipline and hard work will result in enjoying the well-deserved benefits you receive .
Your numbers are 9 , 12 , 21 , 28 , 32 , 36 , 40 .
ARIES ( March 21-April 19 ) : Charm , persistence and knowledge will make it difficult @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want .
Don ’ t exaggerate or oversell what you have to offer ; it won ’ t be necessary , and it can lead to a reversal of fortune .
3 stars TAURUS ( April 20-May 20 ) : Channel your emotional energy into something constructive .
Consider what you want to accomplish , and don ’ t stop until you reach your destination .
Establish a routine that allows you to be more productive .
Be aware of what others expect , like and appreciate .
3 stars GEMINI ( May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not be easy .
Listen , question motives and consider what ’ s fair before you agree to something that may jeopardize your future .
Know your rights , and voice your opinion .
Verify facts , and proceed with caution .
3 stars CANCER ( June 21-July 22 ) : Forward motion will be better for you than living in the past .
Don ’ t fear the unknown .
An open mind , innovative spirit and the will to bring about positive change will make your life better .
Focus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t look back .
4 stars LEO ( July 23-Aug. 22 ) : You can improve your financial situation if you are disciplined and choose to follow your path .
Getting involved in someone ’ s plan will diminish your chance to explore what you want and do best .
Live your dream .
2 stars VIRGO ( Aug. 23-Sept. 22 ) : Set goals as well as boundaries .
If you spread yourself too thin , you will miss your mark .
Pick up information , skills and insight into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your plans in motion .
Decline a joint venture , and do your own thing .
5 stars LIBRA ( Sept. 23-Oct. 22 ) : Explore your options , gather information or take a correspondence course .
Do whatever it takes to prepare for your next venture .
Refuse to let someone interfere with your plans .
Instead of being controlled , take the reins .
Personal improvement should be a priority .
3 stars SCORPIO ( Oct. 23-Nov. 21 ) : It ’ s up to you to make change happen .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and work diligently to put everything in place to ensure your success .
Altering your lifestyle should bring you peace of mind and a more significant opportunity to fulfill your dreams .
3 stars SAGITTARIUS ( Nov. 22-Dec. 21 ) : Move things around at home to suit your changing lifestyle .
Distance yourself from individuals who are indulgent or untrustworthy .
Nurture meaningful relationships that bring out the best in you and encourage and support your efforts .
Get back to basics .
3 stars CAPRICORN ( Dec. 22-Jan. 19 ) : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more time making positive changes at home that will bring you comfort and ease your stress .
Set high standards when it comes to relationships , health and lifestyle .
Take fewer risks , and aim for stability and security .
5 stars AQUARIUS ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18 ) : Consider your options , and you ’ ll figure out the best way to proceed .
Refuse to let opposition and meddlers stand between you and what you want .
Follow the path that suits you , not what someone chooses for you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 20 ) : A change to the way you live , your financial situation or your relationship with someone you ’ ve known for a long time will leave you questioning the decisions you ’ ve made in the past .
Learn from experience , but don ’ t lose sight of the future .
4 stars Birthday Baby : You are intense , passionate and appreciative .
You are motivated and intelligent .

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Fairuza Balk, 46; Lisa Edelstein, 54; Nick Cassavetes, 61; Judge Reinhold, 63.
Happy Birthday: Spice things up, and do things differently. Take time to explore something unfamiliar. Learn all you can, and reach out to those who have something unique to offer. Consider what you can do to make your life better, relationships stable and future bright. Discipline and hard work will result in enjoying the well-deserved benefits you receive. Your numbers are 9, 12, 21, 28, 32, 36, 40.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Charm, persistence and knowledge will make it difficult for others to deny you what you want. Don’t exaggerate or oversell what you have to offer; it won’t be necessary, and it can lead to a reversal of fortune. 3 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Channel your emotional energy into something constructive. Consider what you want to accomplish, and don’t stop until you reach your destination. Establish a routine that allows you to be more productive. Be aware of what others expect, like and appreciate. 3 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Dealing with others will not be easy. Listen, question motives and consider what’s fair before you agree to something that may jeopardize your future. Know your rights, and voice your opinion. Verify facts, and proceed with caution. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Forward motion will be better for you than living in the past. Don’t fear the unknown. An open mind, innovative spirit and the will to bring about positive change will make your life better. Focus on what’s possible, and don’t look back. 4 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You can improve your financial situation if you are disciplined and choose to follow your path. Getting involved in someone’s plan will diminish your chance to explore what you want and do best. Live your dream. 2 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Set goals as well as boundaries. If you spread yourself too thin, you will miss your mark. Pick up information, skills and insight into what’s possible, and set your plans in motion. Decline a joint venture, and do your own thing. 5 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Explore your options, gather information or take a correspondence course. Do whatever it takes to prepare for your next venture. Refuse to let someone interfere with your plans. Instead of being controlled, take the reins. Personal improvement should be a priority. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): It’s up to you to make change happen. Consider what it is you want, and work diligently to put everything in place to ensure your success. Altering your lifestyle should bring you peace of mind and a more significant opportunity to fulfill your dreams. 3 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Move things around at home to suit your changing lifestyle. Distance yourself from individuals who are indulgent or untrustworthy. Nurture meaningful relationships that bring out the best in you and encourage and support your efforts. Get back to basics. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): When uncertain, sit tight. Spend more time making positive changes at home that will bring you comfort and ease your stress. Set high standards when it comes to relationships, health and lifestyle. Take fewer risks, and aim for stability and security. 5 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Consider your options, and you’ll figure out the best way to proceed. Refuse to let opposition and meddlers stand between you and what you want. Follow the path that suits you, not what someone chooses for you. 2 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A change to the way you live, your financial situation or your relationship with someone you’ve known for a long time will leave you questioning the decisions you’ve made in the past. Learn from experience, but don’t lose sight of the future. 4 stars
Birthday Baby: You are intense, passionate and appreciative. You are motivated and intelligent.
Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.