mercurynews--2020-02-17--Ask Amy: Tattling kid wanted to make sure I punished my grandson

DEAR AMY : We are a group of grandmas who see our grandkids for hours or sometimes a few days at a time .
Our question is how we should handle punishments given by the parents when our grandchildren are with us .
When the parents of my grandkids ask how things went , I always say “ fine , ” but other grandmas give a detailed account of everything that went on .
This discussion started when I was given instructions to deny my 5-year-old grandson treats while he was with me because he had defaced something at his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
During their visit , his older brother constantly reminded me that the punishment for his brother was to be followed while they were at my house .
I was left with the feeling that I could not spend the time with my grandsons as I wished .
• Ask Amy : The annoying way she talks to my kids makes me want to scream • Ask Amy : I haven ’ t told my kids who my father is • Ask Amy : She won ’ t love me like I want @ @ @ @ @ @ @ texted hearts to my husband , and he won ’ t address it • Ask Amy : I like dogs more than babies .
What is wrong with me ?
I know that in order to have a presence in my grandchildren ’ s lives , I need to follow the parents ’ instruction .
However , I don ’ t like how the punished child ’ s sibling was policing the situation .
We all agree that any problem of significance should be shared , but how about the little things that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , grandparents should make their best efforts to adhere to discipline guidelines laid down by the parents .
That having been said , when the children are with you , you are ( in effect ) “ in loco parentis ” — in place of the parent .
This means that you should use your own best judgment , without directly or deliberately undermining the parents .
I diagnose this not as a discipline issue with the parents of a 5-year-old , but as a tattle issue with an older sibling .
You @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , “ OK , Mr. Tattle McTattlemuch , when you guys are with me , I ’ m in charge of treats and punishments .
And because we are a team , if one of us doesn ’ t get treats , then none of us get treats .
“ So , until your parents say so , we ’ re not going to have our daily ice cream scoop .
But we ’ ll have other sorts of good things .
Have you ever eaten fruit kabobs off of a skewer and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really good .
But the deal is that you don ’ t get to remind me about your brother ’ s punishment .
Because we ’ re a team here … and I ’ m the coach.
” Then you look your little dudes straight in the eyes and ask , “ Who is the coach ?
I can ’ t hear you… ” etc.
, until they both get the message that Coach Grammy is in charge .
DEAR AMY : I am an employer seeking to hire a new employee .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ confirm an interview and are then no-shows .
Sometimes they respond that they were in a car accident , a child is in the hospital , or that an accident on the highway prevented them from arriving .
Then they ask to reschedule .
Other times , they don ’ t show up , and there is no communication at all .
I do not know why they don ’ t email/call to say that they are not going to make their appointment .
I am grateful to know in advance that they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but I do not understand the behavior .
Our time is valuable , too , and it is disappointing .
Do they just need to apply for jobs to satisfy receiving unemployment benefits ?
DEAR FRUSTRATED : Yes , people receiving unemployment benefits are often expected to show evidence that they are actively searching for work .
And sometimes , people get hung up in traffic or have children whose needs overtake their day .
The unemployment rate is very low right now .
And the experience of job searching has changed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ once and then — if they are lucky enough to score an in-person interview — have to juggle these commitments .
I recently spoke with a hiring manager who waited for 20 minutes for the applicant to arrive .
The manager said this wouldn ’ t have been a problem if the person had apologized for being late .
They didn ’ t .
Applicants should demonstrate professional behavior as well as common courtesy , calling if they are delayed or hope to reschedule .
DEAR AMY : I loved your answer to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who wanted to settle in a small town , while her longtime boyfriend craved city life .
I ’ d like to add my city , Tulsa , to the list of cities you mentioned that offer a great combination of small-town and metropolitan life .
DEAR PROUD : I have spent a lot of time in Tulsa .
I agree with you .
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy @ amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy , P.O .
Box 194 , Freeville , NY 13068 .
You can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or Facebook .

DEAR AMY: We are a group of grandmas who see our grandkids for hours or sometimes a few days at a time.
Our question is how we should handle punishments given by the parents when our grandchildren are with us.
When the parents of my grandkids ask how things went, I always say “fine,” but other grandmas give a detailed account of everything that went on.
This discussion started when I was given instructions to deny my 5-year-old grandson treats while he was with me because he had defaced something at his house (I was not there).
During their visit, his older brother constantly reminded me that the punishment for his brother was to be followed while they were at my house. I was left with the feeling that I could not spend the time with my grandsons as I wished.
Related Articles Advice | Ask Amy: I found the videos she posted about me, with all the demeaning comments
Ask Amy: I found the videos she posted about me, with all the demeaning comments Advice | Ask Amy: My fiance wants me to stay home. Should I bolt?
Ask Amy: My fiance wants me to stay home. Should I bolt? Advice | Ask Amy: Why did she react that way? It was a compliment!
Ask Amy: Why did she react that way? It was a compliment! Advice | Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now?
Ask Amy: I’ve told them they need therapy, and they refuse to do it. What now? Advice | Ask Amy: The man I love is my grandchild’s uncle, and things have gotten messy I know that in order to have a presence in my grandchildren’s lives, I need to follow the parents’ instruction. However, I don’t like how the punished child’s sibling was policing the situation.
We all agree that any problem of significance should be shared, but how about the little things that come up?
Loving Grandmother
DEAR GRANDMOTHER: Generally, grandparents should make their best efforts to adhere to discipline guidelines laid down by the parents.
That having been said, when the children are with you, you are (in effect) “in loco parentis” — in place of the parent. This means that you should use your own best judgment, without directly or deliberately undermining the parents.
I diagnose this not as a discipline issue with the parents of a 5-year-old, but as a tattle issue with an older sibling.
You should very gently remind this older brother, “OK, Mr. Tattle McTattlemuch, when you guys are with me, I’m in charge of treats and punishments. And because we are a team, if one of us doesn’t get treats, then none of us get treats.
“So, until your parents say so, we’re not going to have our daily ice cream scoop. But we’ll have other sorts of good things. Have you ever eaten fruit kabobs off of a skewer and dipped in yogurt? It’s really good. But the deal is that you don’t get to remind me about your brother’s punishment. Because we’re a team here … and I’m the coach.”
Then you look your little dudes straight in the eyes and ask, “Who is the coach? I can’t hear you…” etc., until they both get the message that Coach Grammy is in charge.
DEAR AMY: I am an employer seeking to hire a new employee.
I have been very disappointed when applicants confirm an interview and are then no-shows.
Sometimes they respond that they were in a car accident, a child is in the hospital, or that an accident on the highway prevented them from arriving. Then they ask to reschedule.
Other times, they don’t show up, and there is no communication at all. I do not know why they don’t email/call to say that they are not going to make their appointment.
I am grateful to know in advance that they would probably not be good employees, but I do not understand the behavior. Our time is valuable, too, and it is disappointing.
Do they just need to apply for jobs to satisfy receiving unemployment benefits?
Frustrated Employer
DEAR FRUSTRATED: Yes, people receiving unemployment benefits are often expected to show evidence that they are actively searching for work.
And sometimes, people get hung up in traffic or have children whose needs overtake their day.
The unemployment rate is very low right now. And the experience of job searching has changed. Applicants often apply to multiple jobs at once and then — if they are lucky enough to score an in-person interview — have to juggle these commitments. I recently spoke with a hiring manager who waited for 20 minutes for the applicant to arrive. The manager said this wouldn’t have been a problem if the person had apologized for being late. They didn’t.
Applicants should demonstrate professional behavior as well as common courtesy, calling if they are delayed or hope to reschedule.
Want Ask Amy delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
DEAR AMY: I loved your answer to “Desperate,” the med student who wanted to settle in a small town, while her longtime boyfriend craved city life.
I’d like to add my city, Tulsa, to the list of cities you mentioned that offer a great combination of small-town and metropolitan life.
Proud Tulsan
DEAR PROUD: I have spent a lot of time in Tulsa. I agree with you.
You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Letter: Are health care, college and housing truly ‘rights’?

Are health care , college and housing truly ‘ rights ’ ?
Our founders were brilliant , defining clearly the inherent rights all adults can count on , regardless of government desire .
These include life , liberty , the pursuit of happiness , free speech , gun ownership .
Real rights share a common principle : They don ’ t incur cost or obligation to anyone else .
They are the only rights you can claim .
The right to medical care , college , housing , etc.
, are not real rights .
When issued as demands , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compelling them to pay .
Society has added safety nets , which should be short-term solutions except for those permanently disabled , but these aren ’ t rights either .
Adding these “ rights ” deprives hard-working Americans of their earnings so that others can simply “ take.
” • Letter : Don ’ t sit back and think our democracy will be fine • Letter : So Sunol bears 100 % of bond but only has 20 % of students ?
Don ’ t be confused .
No right can exist that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the editor via this form Read more Letters to the Editor

Are health care, college
and housing truly ‘rights’?
Our founders were brilliant, defining clearly the inherent rights all adults can count on, regardless of government desire. These include life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, free speech, gun ownership.
Real rights share a common principle: They don’t incur cost or obligation to anyone else. They are the only rights you can claim.
The right to medical care, college, housing, etc., are not real rights. When issued as demands, these “rights” enslave others, compelling them to pay.
Society has added safety nets, which should be short-term solutions except for those permanently disabled, but these aren’t rights either.
Adding these “rights” deprives hard-working Americans of their earnings so that others can simply “take.”
Related Articles Letters to the Editor | Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives
Letters: Escape Bay Area | CASA program | Feinstein replacement | Faulty comparison | Not conservatives Letters to the Editor | Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances
Letters: Psychiatric beds | SJSU neglect | Squandering cash | Overdoing coverage | Pac-12 negotiations | For climate’s sake | Electric appliances Letters to the Editor | Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language
Letters: Abandoning tenants | Deaf culture | Western contributions | Conservative alienation | Precise language Letters to the Editor | Letters: Insulate wires | CDE was wrong | Functional Chromebooks | Trump’s ego | Healthy debate | A new path
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 Don’t be confused. No right can exist that enslaves another.
Denise Kalm
Walnut Creek
Submit your letter to the editor via this form
Read more Letters to the Editor


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Harriette Cole: My husband is upset about one side effect of my medication

DEAR HARRIETTE : I have never been one with a particularly active libido .
Now I am taking a series of medicines for a chronic condition , and a side effect is reduced libido .
My husband was already mad that I no longer seem to have the desire for intimacy , and now this .
My doctor says I have to take the medicine .
What can I do to stimulate arousal , or should I just tell my husband to get over it ?
DEAR UNSTIMULATED : Start with your doctor .
Tell him or her about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and ask if there is another medication that you might be able to take to balance yourself out .
Besides that , it may be time for you and your husband to rekindle a bit of romance .
What did you enjoy doing together when you were more intimately engaged ?
Did you like to go on dates or watch certain programs together ?
Did you split a dessert or read passages from a book ?
Think back to your more romantic days , and draw upon memories to help stimulate even a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find that small gestures can lead you home .
• Harriette Cole : If I really was a rich kid , why did I grow up in squalor ?
• Harriette Cole : The best Valentine ’ s Day gifts you can ’ t buy • Harriette Cole : He wants a divorce but I ’ m scared of losing his income • Harriette Cole : Is the problem the way I look , or is it that I read too much ?
• Harriette Cole : It ’ s awkward to babysit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s doing You don ’ t have to jump into the sack right away , but a kiss now and then , a back rub , things like that , may lead to a closer bond between you .
DEAR HARRIETTE : I have a client who constantly reprimands me about everything .
Just the other day , I sent her a report about a project that we had just finished .
All of the information was clearly articulated in an organized and succinct manner — as I do after every project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for it and to point out that I should be providing written reports on a regular basis to her so that she can share them with others .
Duh .
That ’ s exactly what I had just done .
Why did she feel the need to state the obvious ?
It was a little confusing because it didn ’ t make sense that she would seemingly chastise me when I had just done what she wanted .
Should I say something to her about this ?
I was wondering if I should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what she wants , just so that there is no room for misunderstanding .
What do you think ?
DEAR POINT OF CLARIFICATION : Assuming that your client believes she had a legitimate reason for highlighting your action as something you should do regularly , you can ask her if she is requesting a variation on what you normally offer to her .
You can clearly ask if what you typically provide is adequate or if this note is suggesting that she wants more .
Without attitude , you can request clarification to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ same page .
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: I have never been one with a particularly active libido. Now I am taking a series of medicines for a chronic condition, and a side effect is reduced libido. My husband was already mad that I no longer seem to have the desire for intimacy, and now this. My doctor says I have to take the medicine.
What can I do to stimulate arousal, or should I just tell my husband to get over it?
Unstimulated
DEAR UNSTIMULATED: Start with your doctor. Tell him or her about the unwanted side effect of reduced libido, and ask if there is another medication that you might be able to take to balance yourself out.
Besides that, it may be time for you and your husband to rekindle a bit of romance. What did you enjoy doing together when you were more intimately engaged? Did you like to go on dates or watch certain programs together? Did you split a dessert or read passages from a book?
Think back to your more romantic days, and draw upon memories to help stimulate even a passing interest in romance. You may find that small gestures can lead you home.
Related Articles Advice | Harriette Cole: Was it rash to choose this job over my boyfriend’s objections?
Harriette Cole: Was it rash to choose this job over my boyfriend’s objections? Advice | Harriette Cole: What does it mean that my boyfriend’s sister called me by this name?
Harriette Cole: What does it mean that my boyfriend’s sister called me by this name? Advice | Harriette Cole: Our guest walked through a closed screen door. Is it our problem?
Harriette Cole: Our guest walked through a closed screen door. Is it our problem? Advice | Harriette Cole: I’m ashamed to tell people I forgave my childhood friend
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 You don’t have to jump into the sack right away, but a kiss now and then, a back rub, things like that, may lead to a closer bond between you.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I have a client who constantly reprimands me about everything.
Just the other day, I sent her a report about a project that we had just finished. All of the information was clearly articulated in an organized and succinct manner — as I do after every project. Her response was to thank me for it and to point out that I should be providing written reports on a regular basis to her so that she can share them with others.
Duh. That’s exactly what I had just done. Why did she feel the need to state the obvious?
It was a little confusing because it didn’t make sense that she would seemingly chastise me when I had just done what she wanted. Should I say something to her about this?
I was wondering if I should ask her if what I sent is what she wants, just so that there is no room for misunderstanding. What do you think?
Point of Clarification
DEAR POINT OF CLARIFICATION: Assuming that your client believes she had a legitimate reason for highlighting your action as something you should do regularly, you can ask her if she is requesting a variation on what you normally offer to her. You can clearly ask if what you typically provide is adequate or if this note is suggesting that she wants more.
Without attitude, you can request clarification to ensure that you both are on the same page.
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--2020-02-17--Miss Manners: Invited solo to a wedding? Just don’t show up

DEAR MISS MANNERS : As a long-time single person ( divorced ) , my advice to anyone who receives a wedding invitation that does not include a guest is : Don ’ t go .
If the bride is trying to save money , this will help her out .
Why would any engaged couple ( generally joined at the hip ) think sitting around at a party that is 99 % couples is a fun time for a single person ?
Especially when the dancing starts .
It ’ s not so great to sit at a table by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and borders on disrespectful .
I used to return the RSVP cards with a will-not-attend , but now , I don ’ t even bother doing that .
But Miss Manners agrees that you should not attend this wedding .
You have so many good reasons : • Miss Manners : Why won ’ t my guests clean my toilet ?
• Miss Manners : I found out it ’ s offensive to wear the bride ’ s theme colors • Miss Manners : She ’ s engaged and she ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ move ?
• Miss Manners : When they tell me I must be really smart , do I say yes , no or thank you ?
• Miss Manners : Am I sending signals that make these men ask me out ?
You do not like the bride , whom you suspect of parsimony .
You do not want to socialize with the couple ’ s relatives and friends .
You have no interest in witnessing this marriage , only in using the occasion to have “ a fun time ” with someone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ therefore did not invite .
DEAR MISS MANNERS : I ’ m a university professor and a part-time curator at a museum where we sponsor lectures by prominent figures in my field .
After the evening lecture , I , the speaker and his or her spouse ( if present ) in addition to any local friends , my wife , my assistant and possibly a few of my students who have attended all go out to dinner together at a good restaurant My assistant pays the bill with his credit card from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , my assistant ’ s spouse attends the lecture , too , and has never been included in the dinner party .
My assistant is pestering me to include her .
We know her , but are not members of the same social circle .
My assistant argues that once the lecture is over and we go out , the occasion has become a social one , and spouses who are present should be included .
I feel that it ’ s still a work event , despite the presence of people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Which is it ?
I will abide by your ruling .
GENTLE READER : It is so long since business hours had a definite end , after which workers were free to spend time with people of their own choosing , that Miss Manners is not surprised that you are both confused .
Pseudo-socializing for professional reasons is so common that many only find out who their real friends are when they leave their jobs .
So here is a double answer : Yes , these dinners are part of the job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If the lecturers were not there , you and he or she would not be out on the town together .
Rather , you would both be free to spend time with your respective spouses or friends .
But you have taken your assistant ’ s evening , probably without paying overtime .
You are even sending the wife home after she attends the lecture , in sight of all the other spouses accompanying you to dinner — including yours .
You can justify this because your assistant is working .
Nevertheless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do so .
It may be justified , but it is mean .
• Ask Amy : Tattling kid wanted to make sure I punished my grandson • Harriette Cole : My husband is upset about one side effect of my medication • Dear Abby : Someone died in my yard , and his family built a big , tacky shrine there • Ask Amy : The annoying way she talks to my kids makes me want to scream • Dear Abby : I found out about my friends ’ secret tea dates @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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: As a long-time single person (divorced), my advice to anyone who receives a wedding invitation that does not include a guest is: Don’t go. If the bride is trying to save money, this will help her out.
Why would any engaged couple (generally joined at the hip) think sitting around at a party that is 99% couples is a fun time for a single person? Especially when the dancing starts.
It’s not so great to sit at a table by yourself. It’s actually condescending, and borders on disrespectful.
I used to return the RSVP cards with a will-not-attend, but now, I don’t even bother doing that.
GENTLE READER: How disrespectful!
But Miss Manners agrees that you should not attend this wedding. You have so many good reasons:
Related Articles Advice | Miss Manners: They come to my house and yell at my dog
Miss Manners: They come to my house and yell at my dog Advice | Miss Manners: Why are parents miffed at me? They’re the ones who spell the kids’ names wrong.
Miss Manners: Why are parents miffed at me? They’re the ones who spell the kids’ names wrong. Advice | Miss Manners: She’s so rich, but she never gives us anything
Miss Manners: She’s so rich, but she never gives us anything Advice | Miss Manners: She wants to turn our music festival into a get-drunk weekend
Miss Manners: She wants to turn our music festival into a get-drunk weekend Advice | Miss Manners: My rule is no gift for a second wedding, no attendance for a third You do not like the bride, whom you suspect of parsimony. You do not want to socialize with the couple’s relatives and friends. You have no interest in witnessing this marriage, only in using the occasion to have “a fun time” with someone the couple doesn’t know and therefore did not invite.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’m a university professor and a part-time curator at a museum where we sponsor lectures by prominent figures in my field. After the evening lecture, I, the speaker and his or her spouse (if present) in addition to any local friends, my wife, my assistant and possibly a few of my students who have attended all go out to dinner together at a good restaurant
My assistant pays the bill with his credit card from the museum. From time to time, my assistant’s spouse attends the lecture, too, and has never been included in the dinner party. My assistant is pestering me to include her. We know her, but are not members of the same social circle.
My assistant argues that once the lecture is over and we go out, the occasion has become a social one, and spouses who are present should be included. I feel that it’s still a work event, despite the presence of people who are not getting paid by the museum.
Which is it? I will abide by your ruling.
Want Miss Manners delivered to your inbox for free on weekdays?
GENTLE READER: It is so long since business hours had a definite end, after which workers were free to spend time with people of their own choosing, that Miss Manners is not surprised that you are both confused. Pseudo-socializing for professional reasons is so common that many only find out who their real friends are when they leave their jobs.
So here is a double answer:
Yes, these dinners are part of the job. Your assistant is there to work. If the lecturers were not there, you and he or she would not be out on the town together. Rather, you would both be free to spend time with your respective spouses or friends.
But you have taken your assistant’s evening, probably without paying overtime. You are even sending the wife home after she attends the lecture, in sight of all the other spouses accompanying you to dinner — including yours.
You can justify this because your assistant is working. Nevertheless, Miss Manners asks you not to do so. It may be justified, but it is mean.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Dear Abby: Someone died in my yard, and his family built a big, tacky shrine there

DEAR ABBY : I need some help .
A terrible car accident happened in front of my house a few months ago that resulted in the death of a husband and father .
The family comes out every Sunday to place flowers at the accident site , which is my front yard .
At first , I had no problem with them expressing their grief and tried to console the widow every time I saw her .
The problem is , she has gradually added to the area a memorial stone , an angel statue , vases and some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ front yard is beginning to look like a graveyard — a tacky one .
Now she ’ s asking to place a protective shelter over the site .
• Dear Abby : I found out about my friends ’ secret tea dates • Dear Abby : My wife left our bedroom .
Is this normal ?
• Dear Abby : Her self-published book is full of lies , and I ’ m tempted to tell • Dear Abby : My aunt sent this heartbreaking letter , and now I can ’ t contact @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to respond .
My husband is threatening to go and pull everything up as it is .
To add to the stress of all this , another fatal accident occurred last month , resulting in the death of a 22-year-old .
He was the son of one of my children ’ s teachers .
I can ’ t imagine what she must be feeling right now , passing our home and seeing the graveyard out front .
It must be heartbreaking .
We live on a dangerous road , and we are petitioning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t want to make our front yard a spectacle .
DEAR GRIEVING : You are obviously a caring person or you wouldn ’ t have allowed this situation to have gone as far as it has .
It won ’ t be a pleasant conversation , but the time has come for you and your husband to talk with the widow together and explain that while you sympathize with her devastating loss , you prefer your yard not be used this way .
You have that right .
It ’ s private property @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be some other way to memorialize her husband , but you need the stone and other objects removed within a reasonable time frame .
You may also want to check with your local officials to see what the laws are about this .
DEAR ABBY : I ’ ve been happily married for 34 years , and my wife and I are supportive of each other .
She ’ s a gourmet cook , and I ’ m an OK one .
She takes extra care when she cooks .
She wants her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appreciate it .
Sometimes she will cook something like an awesome enchilada casserole or pork loin .
When she serves it , I like to add lots of other toppings , like sour cream and hot sauce or BBQ sauce .
I don ’ t do it with everything — just with certain dishes .
I always taste the food first , but I know how I like my food , and I season it the way I like .
She wishes I would eat her food the way she prepared it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I ruin her creation , which is disrespectful .
I disagree .
I should be allowed to enjoy my food the way I want and not be made to feel bad about it .
Why would she want me to enjoy my meal less by not fixing it up the way I enjoy ?
We both agreed to seriously consider what you have to say about this .
DEAR RECIPE : Your wife feels creative pride in the meals she prepares for you .
When you alter them with “ lots of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BBQ sauce , she may feel that somehow her creation was a failure .
Reassure her that her meals are excellent , but not everyone has the same palate .
It may have something to do with the geographic region in which a person was raised , or the household in which someone grew up .
If you need certain dishes spicier in order to enjoy them , perhaps your wife should consider altering the seasonings in a portion of what she prepares to suit you .
If she can ’ t do @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you for doing it .
To each his own .
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren , also known as Jeanne Phillips , and was founded by her mother , Pauline Phillips .
Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O .
Box 69440 , Los Angeles , CA 90069 .

DEAR ABBY: I need some help. A terrible car accident happened in front of my house a few months ago that resulted in the death of a husband and father. The family comes out every Sunday to place flowers at the accident site, which is my front yard.
At first, I had no problem with them expressing their grief and tried to console the widow every time I saw her.
The problem is, she has gradually added to the area a memorial stone, an angel statue, vases and some of her husband’s belongings. My front yard is beginning to look like a graveyard — a tacky one. Now she’s asking to place a protective shelter over the site.
Related Articles Advice | Dear Abby: Is it weird that I think this actress could be my sister?
Dear Abby: Is it weird that I think this actress could be my sister? Advice | Dear Abby: Why are people so rude to me lately? I’m a nice guy.
Dear Abby: Why are people so rude to me lately? I’m a nice guy. Advice | Dear Abby: My financial adviser won’t listen to me, but he insists he’s not sexist
Dear Abby: My financial adviser won’t listen to me, but he insists he’s not sexist Advice | Dear Abby: Our teen’s messy breakup has had awkward repercussions for us
Dear Abby: Our teen’s messy breakup has had awkward repercussions for us Advice | Dear Abby: I was annoyed to discover why our friends picked this restaurant I don’t know how to respond. My husband is threatening to go and pull everything up as it is.
To add to the stress of all this, another fatal accident occurred last month, resulting in the death of a 22-year-old. He was the son of one of my children’s teachers. I can’t imagine what she must be feeling right now, passing our home and seeing the graveyard out front. It must be heartbreaking.
We live on a dangerous road, and we are petitioning for changes, but I don’t want to make our front yard a spectacle.
GRIEVING IN THE MIDWEST
DEAR GRIEVING: You are obviously a caring person or you wouldn’t have allowed this situation to have gone as far as it has. It won’t be a pleasant conversation, but the time has come for you and your husband to talk with the widow together and explain that while you sympathize with her devastating loss, you prefer your yard not be used this way. You have that right. It’s private property.
Suggest to her that there may be some other way to memorialize her husband, but you need the stone and other objects removed within a reasonable time frame. You may also want to check with your local officials to see what the laws are about this.
DEAR ABBY: I’ve been happily married for 34 years, and my wife and I are supportive of each other. She’s a gourmet cook, and I’m an OK one. She takes extra care when she cooks. She wants her meals to be exceptional, and I appreciate it.
Sometimes she will cook something like an awesome enchilada casserole or pork loin. When she serves it, I like to add lots of other toppings, like sour cream and hot sauce or BBQ sauce. I don’t do it with everything — just with certain dishes. I always taste the food first, but I know how I like my food, and I season it the way I like.
She wishes I would eat her food the way she prepared it. She insists that by altering the dish, I ruin her creation, which is disrespectful. I disagree. I should be allowed to enjoy my food the way I want and not be made to feel bad about it.
Why would she want me to enjoy my meal less by not fixing it up the way I enjoy? We both agreed to seriously consider what you have to say about this.
RECIPE FOR DISASTER IN TEXAS
DEAR RECIPE: Your wife feels creative pride in the meals she prepares for you. When you alter them with “lots of” sour cream, hot sauce or BBQ sauce, she may feel that somehow her creation was a failure. Reassure her that her meals are excellent, but not everyone has the same palate. It may have something to do with the geographic region in which a person was raised, or the household in which someone grew up.
If you need certain dishes spicier in order to enjoy them, perhaps your wife should consider altering the seasonings in a portion of what she prepares to suit you. If she can’t do that, she shouldn’t blame you for doing it. To each his own.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--GM plans to pull out of Australia, New Zealand and Thailand

DETROIT — General Motors decision to pull out of Australia , New Zealand and Thailand as part of a strategy to exit markets that don ’ t produce adequate returns on investments raised dismay Monday from officials concerned over job losses .
The company said in a statement Sunday that plans to wind down sales , engineering and design operations for its historic Holden brand in Australia and New Zealand in 2021 .
It also plans to sell its Rayong factory in Thailand to China ’ s Great Wall Motors and withdraw the Chevrolet brand from Thailand by the end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very disappointing outcome , ” said Karen Andrews , Australia ’ s minister for Industry , Science and Technology .
She said it was unfortunate both because about 500 workers would loose their jobs , but also because “ they only advised the government of this decision just before the announcement.
” Dave Smith of the Australian Manufacturing Workers ’ Union also expressed chagrin .
Workers at Holden had thought they ’ d “ been through the worst of it , and that ’ s not the case , ” Smith said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long-term workers have been very loyal to the company … they ’ ve loved being part of the car industry , and now , it was such an iconic brand coming to an end ; it ’ ll mean an end to their jobs.
” GM has 828 employees in Australia and New Zealand and another 1,500 in Thailand , the company said .
In Thailand , the decision to sell GM ’ s plant in Rayong , south of Bangkok , may well end up being good news for workers there .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of sport utility vehicles and pickups , said it intends to expand in Southeast Asia using the plant in Thailand as its base .
“ We will also promote the development of the local supply chain , research and development and related industries , plus contribute more to the exchequer of both the local Rayong and Thailand governments , ” Great Wall ’ s vice president for global strategy , Liu Xiangshang .
Liu said the Thai expansion was part of Great Wall ’ s global push , following the launch of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and plans to acquire GM ’ s Talegaon plant in India .
GM said it had analyzed the business case for future production at the Rayong plant , but low utilization of its capacity and low sales volumes “ made continued GM production at the site unsustainable.
” GM has struggled in Asia in the past year .
Its International Operations , which include China , lost $ 200 million last year , including $ 100 million in the fourth quarter .
GM ’ s CEO , Mary Barra , said the company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can drive strong returns , scaling back operations in Australia , New Zealand and Thailand to selling niche specialty vehicles .
GM will support its employees and customers in the transition , she said .
GM is making the same moves in Japan , Russia and Europe , where “ we don ’ t have significant scale , ” she said .
“ We are pursuing a niche presence by selling profitable high-end imported vehicles supported by a lean GM structure , ” International Operations Senior Vice President Julian Blissett said in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all warranties in the markets , and it will continue to provide service and parts .
Local operations also will handle recalls and any safety-related issues , the company said .
The Detroit automaker expects to take $ 1.1 billion worth of cash and noncash charges this year as it cuts operations in the three countries .
GM has a long history in Australia with the Holden brand , where cars were designed and sold in the U.S. and other markets .
The 2008 and 2009 Pontiac G8 muscle car , for instance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and built in Australia .
But Holden ’ s market share , which was nearly 22 % in 2002 , fell to just over 4 % last year .
GM President Mark Reuss , who once ran the Australian operations , said the company explored options to continue Holden , “ but none could overcome the challenges of the investments needed for the highly fragmented right-hand-drive market , the economics to support growing the brand , and delivering an appropriate return on investment , ” he said in the statement .

By TOM KRISHER | AP Auto Writer
DETROIT — General Motors decision to pull out of Australia, New Zealand and Thailand as part of a strategy to exit markets that don’t produce adequate returns on investments raised dismay Monday from officials concerned over job losses.
The company said in a statement Sunday that plans to wind down sales, engineering and design operations for its historic Holden brand in Australia and New Zealand in 2021. It also plans to sell its Rayong factory in Thailand to China’s Great Wall Motors and withdraw the Chevrolet brand from Thailand by the end of this year.
“This is a very disappointing outcome,” said Karen Andrews, Australia’s minister for Industry, Science and Technology. She said it was unfortunate both because about 500 workers would loose their jobs, but also because “they only advised the government of this decision just before the announcement.”
Dave Smith of the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union also expressed chagrin.
Workers at Holden had thought they’d “been through the worst of it, and that’s not the case,” Smith said. “For many of them their long-term workers have been very loyal to the company … they’ve loved being part of the car industry, and now, it was such an iconic brand coming to an end; it’ll mean an end to their jobs.”
GM has 828 employees in Australia and New Zealand and another 1,500 in Thailand, the company said.
In Thailand, the decision to sell GM’s plant in Rayong, south of Bangkok, may well end up being good news for workers there.
Great Wall Motors, a major maker of sport utility vehicles and pickups, said it intends to expand in Southeast Asia using the plant in Thailand as its base.
“We will also promote the development of the local supply chain, research and development and related industries, plus contribute more to the exchequer of both the local Rayong and Thailand governments,” Great Wall’s vice president for global strategy, Liu Xiangshang.
Liu said the Thai expansion was part of Great Wall’s global push, following the launch of a plant in Tula in Russia in 2019 and plans to acquire GM’s Talegaon plant in India.
GM said it had analyzed the business case for future production at the Rayong plant, but low utilization of its capacity and low sales volumes “made continued GM production at the site unsustainable.”
GM has struggled in Asia in the past year. Its International Operations, which include China, lost $200 million last year, including $100 million in the fourth quarter.
GM’s CEO, Mary Barra, said the company wants to focus on markets where it can drive strong returns, scaling back operations in Australia, New Zealand and Thailand to selling niche specialty vehicles. GM will support its employees and customers in the transition, she said.
GM is making the same moves in Japan, Russia and Europe, where “we don’t have significant scale,” she said.
“We are pursuing a niche presence by selling profitable high-end imported vehicles supported by a lean GM structure,” International Operations Senior Vice President Julian Blissett said in the statement.
GM said it will honor all warranties in the markets, and it will continue to provide service and parts. Local operations also will handle recalls and any safety-related issues, the company said.
The Detroit automaker expects to take $1.1 billion worth of cash and noncash charges this year as it cuts operations in the three countries.
GM has a long history in Australia with the Holden brand, where cars were designed and sold in the U.S. and other markets. The 2008 and 2009 Pontiac G8 muscle car, for instance, was designed as a Holden Commodore and built in Australia. But Holden’s market share, which was nearly 22% in 2002, fell to just over 4% last year.
GM President Mark Reuss, who once ran the Australian operations, said the company explored options to continue Holden, “but none could overcome the challenges of the investments needed for the highly fragmented right-hand-drive market, the economics to support growing the brand, and delivering an appropriate return on investment,” he said in the statement.
AP Business Writer Elaine Kurtenbach in Bangkok contributed.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Charles Portis, who wrote ‘True Grit,’ dies at 86

LITTLE ROCK , Ark .
– Charles Portis , the reclusive Arkansas writer known for the classic Western novel “ True Grit ” and the wry humor that filled his works , died on Monday at the age of 86 after battling a long illness , the New York Times reported .
Portis wrote five novels , numerous magazine articles and short stories and one stage play .
Portis ’ death was confirmed by his brother Jonathan , who told the Times that the author had been in hospice care for two years and in a care facility for Alzheimer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ 1968 novel “ True Grit , ” which was serialized by the Saturday Evening Post , spent 22 weeks on the New York Times ’ best-seller list .
It was set in the 1870s and told the tale of Mattie Ross , a 14-year-old girl who enlists a one-eyed marshal named Rooster Cogburn to find the man who killed her father .
The film was twice made into a movie .
The 1969 version starred John Wayne as Cogburn and earned him an Academy Award for best actor .
Joel and Ethan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2010 that was nominated for 10 Oscars .
In recent decades , Portis rarely gave interviews .
But in a 1984 New York Times article , he spoke about his writing style – banging away at typewriter keys with two fingers .
“ I write in a little office without a phone , behind a beer joint called Cash McCoo ’ s , ” he said .
“ For $ 85 a month , you can ’ t beat it.
” Before becoming a novelist , Portis served in the U.S. Marines @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bachelor ’ s degree in journalism from the University of Arkansas in 1958 .
He was a reporter for the Northwest Arkansas Times in Fayetteville and the Memphis Commercial Appeal , his family said .
He eventually became the London bureau chief for the New York Herald Tribune , and wrote about the U.S. civil rights struggle in the South for the newspaper .
Another novel , “ Norwood , ” was made into a movie and did well at the box office .
The 1966 novel tells the story of a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and back .
Portis ’ articles , short stories and memoirs were published in such magazines as the Saturday Evening Post , the New Yorker and the Atlantic .

By Steve Barnes | Reuters
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Charles Portis, the reclusive Arkansas writer known for the classic Western novel “True Grit” and the wry humor that filled his works, died on Monday at the age of 86 after battling a long illness, the New York Times reported.
Portis wrote five novels, numerous magazine articles and short stories and one stage play.
Portis’ death was confirmed by his brother Jonathan, who told the Times that the author had been in hospice care for two years and in a care facility for Alzheimer’s patients before that.
Portis’ 1968 novel “True Grit,” which was serialized by the Saturday Evening Post, spent 22 weeks on the New York Times’ best-seller list. It was set in the 1870s and told the tale of Mattie Ross, a 14-year-old girl who enlists a one-eyed marshal named Rooster Cogburn to find the man who killed her father.
The film was twice made into a movie. The 1969 version starred John Wayne as Cogburn and earned him an Academy Award for best actor. Joel and Ethan Coen wrote and directed a new version in 2010 that was nominated for 10 Oscars.
In recent decades, Portis rarely gave interviews. But in a 1984 New York Times article, he spoke about his writing style – banging away at typewriter keys with two fingers.
“I write in a little office without a phone, behind a beer joint called Cash McCoo’s,” he said. “For $85 a month, you can’t beat it.”
Before becoming a novelist, Portis served in the U.S. Marines in the 1950-53 Korean War and earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Arkansas in 1958. He was a reporter for the Northwest Arkansas Times in Fayetteville and the Memphis Commercial Appeal, his family said.
He eventually became the London bureau chief for the New York Herald Tribune, and wrote about the U.S. civil rights struggle in the South for the newspaper.
Another novel, “Norwood,” was made into a movie and did well at the box office. The 1966 novel tells the story of a road trip from Texas to New York and back.
Portis’ articles, short stories and memoirs were published in such magazines as the Saturday Evening Post, the New Yorker and the Atlantic.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--PHOTOS: Coronavirus: Infected cruise ship passengers getting care in Nebraska, not California

CLICK HERE if you ’ re having trouble viewing the slideshow on your mobile device .
The American passengers diagnosed @ @ @ @ @ evacuated from a Japanese cruise ship are getting specialized care at a Nebraska hospital and @ @ @ @ @ large quarantine at Fairfield ’ s Travis Air Force Base , military officials said Monday @ @ @ @ @ among the 328 U.S. passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship , docked in Yokohama @ @ @ @ @ to the 20-bed National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center Medicine .
@ @ @ @ @ showing only mild symptoms of the disease .
One sicker person is getting a higher @ @ @ @ @ hospital ’ s Biocontainment Unit , which cared for Ebola patients in 2014 .
Meanwhile @ @ @ @ @ in a hotel at Travis Air Force Base , where they are being monitored by @ @ @ @ @ Control and Prevention for 14 days .
People infected with the respiratory disease may not @ @ @ @ @ CLICK HERE to read the full article

A group of ambulances from the Solano EMS Cooperative stage at the visitor center at Travis Air Force Base, adjacent to Fairfield, Calif., Sunday, Feb. 16, 2020. A group of Americans cut short a 14-day quarantine on the Diamond Princess cruise ship in the port of Yokohama, near Tokyo, to be whisked back to America. But they will have to spend another quarantine period at U.S. military facilities including Travis to make sure they don't have the new virus that's been sweeping across Asia. (AP Photo/Hector Amezcua)


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Miscues cost depleted Sharks in loss to Florida Panthers

CLICK HERE if you are unable to view the photos on a mobile device SAN JOSE — The Sharks have been an offensively challenged group for most of the season .
Missing all of the firepower they are at the moment only exacerbates the issue .
So if they want to continue to stay competitive , they simply can ’ t afford to hurt themselves .
That ’ s what happened Monday , as the Florida Panthers took advantage of a couple of miscues by the depleted Sharks to pick up a 5-3 win at SAP Center .
Dylan Gambrell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the Sharks and Aaron Dell made 29 saves in the loss , San Jose ’ s fourth straight on home ice .
Mike Hoffman gave Florida a 2-1 lead , as he intercepted a Brent Burns pass intended for Brenden Dillon at the Panthers blue line and scored on a breakaway at the 11:00 mark of the second period .
Colton Sceviour provided some needed insurance for the Panthers at the 10:04 mark of the third period , firing a shot on Dell and collecting his own rebound past defenseman Tim Heed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ season .
Anton Stralman gave Florida a 4-2 lead at the 17:06 mark of the third .
In the first two periods , the Sharks killed all four penalties they took but also went 0-for-3 on the power play .
The Sharks have lost defenseman Erik Karlsson and Tomas Hertl to season-ending injuries .
Logan Couture remains out as he continues to rehabilitate from a fracture in his ankle , and Evander Kane was serving the second game of a three-game suspension that was handed down by the NHL over the weekend .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Sharks ’ first power play unit .
That ’ s a combined 57 goals and 92 assists missing from a lineup that , before Monday , had scored an average of 2.59 goals in 58 games in all situations .
Only Columbus ( 2.58 ) , Anaheim ( 2.52 ) , Los Angeles ( 2.46 ) and Detroit ( 1.98 ) had scored less often .
Labanc ’ s power play goal at the 14:34 mark of the third period was the Sharks ’ first with the man advantage in 10 tries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the last at home for the Sharks before the Feb. 24 trade deadline , as they begin a four-game road trip against Metropolitan Division teams Thursday in New Jersey .
Well out of a playoff spot , the Sharks figure to be sellers by the deadline , and could have a different looking lineup by the time the return to San Jose for their next home game — Feb. 27 against the Devils .
The game was tied 1-1 after the teams exchanged even strength goals .
Evgenii Dadonov scored at the 4:52 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collected his own rebound and shoveled it past Dell for his 24th goal of the season and a 1-0 Panthers lead .
The Sharks turned it over in the neutral zone , leading to Florida ’ s rush up the ice , and seemed disorganized in their own end as Dadonov had time in front of the net .
The Sharks ’ fourth line tied the game at the 11:30 mark .
Alex True came in the forecheck and pressured Bobrovsky behind the Florida net .
True then pushed the puck into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ turnover .
Antti Suomela came up with puck near the slot and passed it to Gambrell .
who fired it past Bobrovsky for his fourth goal of the season and second in as many games .
Suomela left the game after he as injured in the second period Monday by a hit from Panthers defenseman Josh Brown , and did not return .

CLICK HERE if you are unable to view the photos on a mobile device
SAN JOSE — The Sharks have been an offensively challenged group for most of the season. Missing all of the firepower they are at the moment only exacerbates the issue.
So if they want to continue to stay competitive, they simply can’t afford to hurt themselves.
That’s what happened Monday, as the Florida Panthers took advantage of a couple of miscues by the depleted Sharks to pick up a 5-3 win at SAP Center.
Dylan Gambrell, Kevin Labanc and Timo Meier scored for the Sharks and Aaron Dell made 29 saves in the loss, San Jose’s fourth straight on home ice.
Mike Hoffman gave Florida a 2-1 lead, as he intercepted a Brent Burns pass intended for Brenden Dillon at the Panthers blue line and scored on a breakaway at the 11:00 mark of the second period.
Colton Sceviour provided some needed insurance for the Panthers at the 10:04 mark of the third period, firing a shot on Dell and collecting his own rebound past defenseman Tim Heed before he scored his sixth of the season. Anton Stralman gave Florida a 4-2 lead at the 17:06 mark of the third.
In the first two periods, the Sharks killed all four penalties they took but also went 0-for-3 on the power play.
The Sharks have lost defenseman Erik Karlsson and Tomas Hertl to season-ending injuries. Logan Couture remains out as he continues to rehabilitate from a fracture in his ankle, and Evander Kane was serving the second game of a three-game suspension that was handed down by the NHL over the weekend. All four have regularly seen time on the Sharks’ first power play unit.
That’s a combined 57 goals and 92 assists missing from a lineup that, before Monday, had scored an average of 2.59 goals in 58 games in all situations. Only Columbus (2.58), Anaheim (2.52), Los Angeles (2.46) and Detroit (1.98) had scored less often.
Labanc’s power play goal at the 14:34 mark of the third period was the Sharks’ first with the man advantage in 10 tries in three games.
The game was the last at home for the Sharks before the Feb. 24 trade deadline, as they begin a four-game road trip against Metropolitan Division teams Thursday in New Jersey.
Well out of a playoff spot, the Sharks figure to be sellers by the deadline, and could have a different looking lineup by the time the return to San Jose for their next home game — Feb. 27 against the Devils.
The game was tied 1-1 after the teams exchanged even strength goals.
Evgenii Dadonov scored at the 4:52 mark of the first period as he collected his own rebound and shoveled it past Dell for his 24th goal of the season and a 1-0 Panthers lead. The Sharks turned it over in the neutral zone, leading to Florida’s rush up the ice, and seemed disorganized in their own end as Dadonov had time in front of the net.
The Sharks’ fourth line tied the game at the 11:30 mark.
Alex True came in the forecheck and pressured Bobrovsky behind the Florida net. True then pushed the puck into the corner, where the Sharks created another turnover. Antti Suomela came up with puck near the slot and passed it to Gambrell. who fired it past Bobrovsky for his fourth goal of the season and second in as many games.
Suomela left the game after he as injured in the second period Monday by a hit from Panthers defenseman Josh Brown, and did not return.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Orinda Halloween shooting: Glazer announces bill to stiffen penalties for short-term rental violatio

Orinda Halloween shooting: Glazer announces bill to stiffen penalties for short-term rental violations

CLICK HERE if you ’ re having a problem viewing the photos on a mobile device .
ORINDA — State Sen. Steve Glazer , D-Orinda , is proposing new legislation giving Orinda and other cities the power to fine short-term rental violators up to $ 5,000 — in direct response to the mass shooting that killed five people Halloween night and rocked this city .
Glazer , a former mayor of Orinda , said he will introduce the bill Tuesday .
He said it is intended to “ create a strong enough disincentive that people will think twice about renting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attract crowds in residential neighborhoods .
Glazer said Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan , D-Orinda , will co-author the bill .
“ With the advent of social media and the ability of people to simply stage events ( that draw ) large quantities , we have in this circumstance some bad apples that have appeared , ” Glazer said at a news conference in front of the Orinda Library , about a mile away from the Airbnb house at 114 Lucile Way that hosted the party attended by more than 100 people .
“ And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bad apple that what happened here in Orinda on Halloween night with the tragic deaths of five individuals at a short-term rental property , ” Glazer continued .
Currently , cities such as Orinda can only impose citations of up to $ 1,000 for short-term rental violations .
“ The question is — ‘ Do cities have the tools that it takes to properly regulate these short-term rentals ?
’ , ” Glazer said .
After meeting with Orinda city officials and other cities throughout the state , he said , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are not enough disincentives to do the right thing and follow the law.
” Glazer said he has received no objection from short-term rental companies like Airbnb on changing and raising the fines on short-term rental violations .
Glazer said it was coincidental that he was proposing the legislation during his re-election bid , saying that Friday is the deadline to introduce bills and that he has been working on this particular bill with Orinda city officials and others throughout California for the past several weeks .
Orinda Mayor Darlene Gee noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ short-term rentals .
In December , the Orinda City Council extended an emergency ordinance on unhosted short-term rentals that calls for a two-day minimum stay with the owner on the property .
The emergency ordinance runs through Nov. 18 , and Gee said the city is working on a permanent ordinance .
“ We are so appreciative to have Sen. Glazer here with us this afternoon and his willingness to put forth this legislation that ’ s very important to us and many other cities in the state , ” Mayor Gee said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amy Worth , Council member and former Mayor Inga Miller , City Manager Steve Solomon , police Chief David Cook and City Clerk Sheri Smith .
Solomon said that the number of Airbnb rentals in the city has decreased from about 40 to approximately half that number .
Meanwhile , police Chief David Cook said the criminal investigation into the Halloween night shooting remains active and had no update .
No one has been charged in connection with the Orinda shooting .
The Contra Costa County District Attorney ’ s office declined to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in a series of raids related to the shooting on Nov. 14 .
The victims have been identified as Tiyon Farley , 22 , of Antioch ; Omar Taylor , 24 , of Pittsburg ; Raymon Hill Jr. , 23 , of San Francisco/Oakland ; Javlin County , 29 , of Marin City ; and Oshiana Tompkins , 19 , of Vallejo/Hercules .

CLICK HERE if you’re having a problem viewing the photos on a mobile device.
ORINDA — State Sen. Steve Glazer, D-Orinda, is proposing new legislation giving Orinda and other cities the power to fine short-term rental violators up to $5,000 — in direct response to the mass shooting that killed five people Halloween night and rocked this city.
Glazer, a former mayor of Orinda, said he will introduce the bill Tuesday. He said it is intended to “create a strong enough disincentive that people will think twice about renting” out “party houses” that attract crowds in residential neighborhoods. Glazer said Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, D-Orinda, will co-author the bill.
“With the advent of social media and the ability of people to simply stage events (that draw) large quantities, we have in this circumstance some bad apples that have appeared,” Glazer said at a news conference in front of the Orinda Library, about a mile away from the Airbnb house at 114 Lucile Way that hosted the party attended by more than 100 people.
“And there’s no better example of a bad apple that what happened here in Orinda on Halloween night with the tragic deaths of five individuals at a short-term rental property,” Glazer continued.
Currently, cities such as Orinda can only impose citations of up to $1,000 for short-term rental violations.
“The question is — ‘Do cities have the tools that it takes to properly regulate these short-term rentals?’,” Glazer said. After meeting with Orinda city officials and other cities throughout the state, he said, “the conclusion is ‘no’ — there are not enough disincentives to do the right thing and follow the law.”
Glazer said he has received no objection from short-term rental companies like Airbnb on changing and raising the fines on short-term rental violations.
Glazer said it was coincidental that he was proposing the legislation during his re-election bid, saying that Friday is the deadline to introduce bills and that he has been working on this particular bill with Orinda city officials and others throughout California for the past several weeks.
Orinda Mayor Darlene Gee noted the steps the city has taken on short-term rentals. In December, the Orinda City Council extended an emergency ordinance on unhosted short-term rentals that calls for a two-day minimum stay with the owner on the property. The emergency ordinance runs through Nov. 18, and Gee said the city is working on a permanent ordinance.
“We are so appreciative to have Sen. Glazer here with us this afternoon and his willingness to put forth this legislation that’s very important to us and many other cities in the state,” Mayor Gee said. She was flanked by Vice Mayor Amy Worth, Council member and former Mayor Inga Miller, City Manager Steve Solomon, police Chief David Cook and City Clerk Sheri Smith.
Solomon said that the number of Airbnb rentals in the city has decreased from about 40 to approximately half that number.
Meanwhile, police Chief David Cook said the criminal investigation into the Halloween night shooting remains active and had no update.
No one has been charged in connection with the Orinda shooting. The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s office declined to charge five other suspects who were arrested in a series of raids related to the shooting on Nov. 14.
The victims have been identified as Tiyon Farley, 22, of Antioch; Omar Taylor, 24, of Pittsburg; Raymon Hill Jr., 23, of San Francisco/Oakland; Javlin County, 29, of Marin City; and Oshiana Tompkins, 19, of Vallejo/Hercules.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Apple warns coronavirus will cut into iPhone production, sales

CUPERTINO — Apple Inc. is warning investors that it won ’ t meet its second-quarter financial guidance because the viral outbreak in China has cut production of iPhones .
The Cupertino-based company said Monday that all of its iPhone manufacturing facilities are outside Hubei province , the epicenter of the outbreak , and all have been reopened .
But the company said production is ramping up slowly .
“ The health and well-being of every person who helps make these products possible is our paramount priority , and we are working in close consultation with our suppliers and public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple said in a statement .
The death toll from COVID-19 , a disease caused by the new coronavirus , was 1,770 as of Monday .
Apple says demand for iPhones is also down in China because many of Apple ’ s 42 retail stores there are closed or operating with reduced hours .
China is Apple ’ s third largest retail market for iPhones , after the U.S. and Europe .
Outside China , Apple said iPhone demand has been strong and is in line with the company ’ s expectations .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ expected second quarter revenue between $ 63 billion and $ 67 billion .
Apple ’ s second quarter ends March 30 .
Apple says the situation is evolving and it will provide more information on its next earnings call in April .

Associated Press
CUPERTINO — Apple Inc. is warning investors that it won’t meet its second-quarter financial guidance because the viral outbreak in China has cut production of iPhones.
The Cupertino-based company said Monday that all of its iPhone manufacturing facilities are outside Hubei province, the epicenter of the outbreak, and all have been reopened. But the company said production is ramping up slowly.
“The health and well-being of every person who helps make these products possible is our paramount priority, and we are working in close consultation with our suppliers and public health experts as this ramp continues,” Apple said in a statement.
The death toll from COVID-19, a disease caused by the new coronavirus, was 1,770 as of Monday.
Apple says demand for iPhones is also down in China because many of Apple’s 42 retail stores there are closed or operating with reduced hours. China is Apple’s third largest retail market for iPhones, after the U.S. and Europe.
Outside China, Apple said iPhone demand has been strong and is in line with the company’s expectations.
On Jan. 28, Apple said it expected second quarter revenue between $63 billion and $67 billion. Apple’s second quarter ends March 30.
Apple says the situation is evolving and it will provide more information on its next earnings call in April.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Three defendants to be tried in El Sobrante killing originally charged as a hate crime

MARTINEZ — More than three years after Richmond resident Willie Sims was beaten and shot in a bar confrontation police initially labeled a hate crime , three suspects are set to go on trial .
The suspected shooter , Ray Simons , 35 , as well as Daniel Ortega , 34 , and Daniel Porter-Kelly , 34 , as set to face a jury sometime in mid-March .
Pretrial motions will start on Tuesday , with jury selection slated to start as early as Thursday .
Among the motions trial Judge Barry Baskin must consider is a request for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ team .
The order would bar prosecution and defense attorneys from publicly commenting on the case during trial .
On Nov. 12 , 2016 , Sims , a musician and member of the band Jazz-ology , was attacked in the back of a bar at 4156 Appian Way in El Sobrante , known as the Capri Club .
Police say a confrontation started in the bar after Porter-Kelly allegedly said , “ f— that n—– , ” referring to Sims .
His attorney has defended the remark , saying Porter-Kelly used it in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ intending to be racist .
A few minutes after being badly injured during the beating , in the front of the Capri Club , Sims walked up to a car containing Simons , Ortega , and Ortega ’ s girlfriend , and Simons allegedly shot Sims , 28 , with a pistol .
At the time of the shooting , Porter-Kelly was in a car , driving away from the area .
Initially , prosecutors charged the three defendants with murder and committing a hate crime , saying that there was evidence Sims @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A detective investigating the homicide also wrote a sworn statement in a search warrant return alleging that the now-defunct Capri Club was known as an establishment where black people were generally unwelcome .
In April 2017 , though , a grand jury rebuffed prosecutors , indicting the three on murder charges but declining a prosecution request to include a hate crime enhancement on the indictment .
Four months later , Porter-Kelly posted bail and was freed from jail .

MARTINEZ — More than three years after Richmond resident Willie Sims was beaten and shot in a bar confrontation police initially labeled a hate crime, three suspects are set to go on trial.
The suspected shooter, Ray Simons, 35, as well as Daniel Ortega, 34, and Daniel Porter-Kelly, 34, will face a jury sometime in mid-March. Pretrial motions will start on Tuesday, with jury selection slated to begin as early as Thursday.
Among the motions trial Judge Barry Baskin must consider is a request for a gag order filed by Simons’ defense team. The order would bar prosecution and defense attorneys from publicly commenting on the case during trial.
On Nov. 12, 2016, Sims, a musician and member of the band Jazz-ology, was attacked in the back of a bar at 4156 Appian Way in El Sobrante, known as the Capri Club. Police say a confrontation started in the bar after Porter-Kelly allegedly cursed at Sims. His attorney has defended the remark, saying Porter-Kelly used the words in a colloquial way and wasn’t intending to be racist.
A few minutes after being badly injured during the beating, in the front of the Capri Club, Sims walked up to a car containing Simons, Ortega, and Ortega’s girlfriend, and Simons allegedly shot Sims, 28, with a pistol. At the time of the shooting, Porter-Kelly was in a car, driving away from the area.
Initially, prosecutors charged the three defendants with murder and committing a hate crime, saying that there was evidence Sims was killed because he was black. A detective investigating the homicide also wrote a sworn statement in a search warrant return alleging that the now-defunct Capri Club was known as an establishment where black people were generally unwelcome.
In April 2017, though, a grand jury rebuffed prosecutors, indicting the three on murder charges but declining a prosecution request to include a hate crime enhancement on the indictment. Four months later, Porter-Kelly posted bail and was freed from jail.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Vandals spray graffiti on Plymouth Rock, other landmarks

Preparations to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Pilgrims arriving in the New World were in full swing in Plymouth , Massachusetts .
But then residents woke up to find that the beloved landmarks that make their city special had been vandalized .
Plymouth Rock was one of them .
The iconic landmark , which is inscribed with the year 1620 to mark the year William Bradford and other Pilgrims first set foot on American land , was found on Monday to be covered with red graffiti .
Vandals also spray-painted the Pilgrim Maiden statue and the National Monument to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ WBZ .
“ We are saddened and sickened by the recent vandalism in our historic town , ” Plymouth Town Manager Melissa Arrighi tweeted .
“ We will begin clean up as soon as possible and the police are investigating.
” Peter Sullivan , a resident of Plymouth , discovered the graffiti on Plymouth Rock while walking around the Pilgrim Memorial State Park .
He said the graffiti was everywhere .
“ They vandalized everything .
All the statues , monuments .
These people went around town all night and did all kinds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He noted it ’ s not the first time .
Four artworks in the shape of scallop shells were also vandalized , according to the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce .
The shells were a project by the Chamber to celebrate the upcoming anniversary .
The shells have already been cleaned by Plymouth Department of Public Works , according to the Chamber , which added that anyone with information reach out to police .

By Alicia Lee | CNN
Preparations to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the Pilgrims arriving in the New World were in full swing in Plymouth, Massachusetts. But then residents woke up to find that the beloved landmarks that make their city special had been vandalized.
Plymouth Rock was one of them.
The iconic landmark, which is inscribed with the year 1620 to mark the year William Bradford and other Pilgrims first set foot on American land, was found on Monday to be covered with red graffiti.
Vandals also spray-painted the Pilgrim Maiden statue and the National Monument to the Forefathers, according to CNN affiliate WBZ.
“We are saddened and sickened by the recent vandalism in our historic town,” Plymouth Town Manager Melissa Arrighi tweeted. “We will begin clean up as soon as possible and the police are investigating.”
Peter Sullivan, a resident of Plymouth, discovered the graffiti on Plymouth Rock while walking around the Pilgrim Memorial State Park.
He said the graffiti was everywhere.
[vemba-video id=”travel/2020/02/17/plymouth-rock-graffiti-vandalized-orig-mg-duplicate-2.cnn”]
VIDEO: Iconic landmark Plymouth Rock vandalized
“They vandalized everything. All the statues, monuments. These people went around town all night and did all kinds of damage,” Sullivan told CNN. He noted it’s not the first time.
Four artworks in the shape of scallop shells were also vandalized, according to the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce. The shells were a project by the Chamber to celebrate the upcoming anniversary.
The shells have already been cleaned by Plymouth Department of Public Works, according to the Chamber, which added that anyone with information reach out to police.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Photos: Oakland Athletics full squad reports to spring training

Click here if you are having trouble viewing the gallery and video on your mobile device The full squad is finally here in Arizona for the Oakland Athletics .
After days of pitchers and catchers , outfielders and infielders team reported to spring training .
Matt Chapman , Marcus Semien , Matt Olson and newcomer Tony Kemp were all at Lew Wolff Training Complex .
The squad worked on a series of drills focused on their fielding skills .
• Photos : San Francisco Giants wrap up their final day of pitchers and catchers only at spring training • Five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A trade that never happened , watching a top prospect and more • Photos : How do the Oakland Athletics look during spring training ?
Outfielder Khris Davis and several others worked on their batting , too .
The team will continue to practice ahead of their opening spring game versus the Chicago Cubs at 1:05 p.m. Feb. 22 at Sloan Park in Mesa , Arizona .
Spring training will last nearly five weeks and cap off with the annual Bay Bridge Series against the San Francisco Giants March 23 and March 24 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Oakland Coliseum against the Minnesota Twins .

Randy Vazquez has been a visual journalist with The Mercury News and East Bay Times since 2017. Formerly he worked for the South Florida Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., where he also interned. Vazquez is a proud alumnus of the New York Times Student Journalism Institute and San Jose State University.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--A’s spring training notes: Vimael Machin looks back on Rule 5 trade, explains his approach at the pl

A’s spring training notes: Vimael Machin looks back on Rule 5 trade, explains his approach at the plate; Rickey Henderson arrives

MESA , Ariz. — Pitchers and catchers had a lot more company on the Fitch Park fields on Monday .
Position players officially reported to Oakland A ’ s spring training — and all were present and accounted for .
Here are some notes from the day .
Maybe it isn ’ t fair to call it a race — second base is crowded , with Tony Kemp brought in as a veteran left-handed option to supplant right-handers Jorge Mateo and Franklin Barreto as possible platoon options .
Machin came aboard in an A ’ s trade with the Philadelphia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Chicago Cubs in the Rule 5 Draft at the Winter Meetings in December .
Machin , 25 , was in his native Peurto Rico playing winter ball for the Crilloles de Caguas when he got the call from A ’ s general manager David Forst .
He was headed to Oakland , Forst told a groggy Machin — he ’ d been asleep when the phone rang , doubling the shock .
“ It surprised , me to be honest , ” Machin said .
“ ( Forst ) explained what happened @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and trade with the Phillies .
I wasn ’ t expecting it , but I had an idea because it was my last year with the Cubs.
” The Rule 5 stipulates that Machin stay on the 26-man roster for the entirety of the regular season , if demoted he must be offered back to the Cubs .
But he ’ s not taking his quasi-guaranteed spot for granted .
“ Just because I ’ m here and got the Rule 5 pick , doesn ’ t mean that I have the job @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to execute and perform .
I took winter ball as my spring training and it actually helped me .
Here I ’ ll just put everything together and see what happens.
” Machin sparkled in winter ball , batting .333 with a .360 OBP and .838 OPS .
He didn ’ t hit any home runs in winter , and six with double-A Tennessee and one with the Iowa Cubs last season .
He ’ ll tell you he ’ s not a power hitter .
“ More of a contact hitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I can see a lot of pitches .
That ’ s something that helped me throughout the year and throughout my career here .
The ability to get on base is something that most organizations are looking for .
To have that is a blessing for me.
” Melvin noted after workouts on Monday that “ Mr .
Machin , ” came as advertised .
“ He seems to know where the barrel of the bat is , ” Melvin said .
And we know the A ’ s value a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patience .
The winter ball players have a bit of an edge .
Machin treats the Caribbean League like his own spring training , he feels a little more in his groove with those 35 games and 115 at bats under his belt .
Consider this a springboard that may loft Machin high into a hearty chunk of second base reps. Plus , those 120 career games at third and 50 career games at third and first base , respectively , should get him around the diamond a bit , too .
Machin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But he ’ s feeling the good vibes already .
“ They have good chemistry of young guys and veteran guys , and that ’ s always good , ” he said .
“ We all know they always make it to the playoffs , so I got excited about it because if I can bring something to the table to help them win , I ’ m ready to do that.
” Murphy , Allen and fellow catcher Jonah Heim and outfielder Luis Barrera were in the same batting practice group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and back-up catcher demonstrated some eye-popping power .
Allen hit a bomb onto the tiled roof of a house across the way over the right-field fence .
Murphy hit a light post well beyond the left field fence at Fitch Park .
We knew a bit about Murphy ’ s knack for power — he hit four towering home runs in 53 at bats last season , and averaged a 90 mph exit velocity .
If Allen ’ s bat turns out to be a plus , he could be another solid option @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The A ’ s pitchers and catchers have already gotten to work extensively with Dave Stewart .
And on Sunday Hall of Famer Randy Johnson stopped by to share his insights with the left-handed pitchers , like look-a-like A.J .
Puk , Jesús Luzardo and Sean Manaea .
A ’ s icon and new Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee Rickey Henderson arrived with the position players to spread his wisdom and cheer .

MESA, Ariz. — Pitchers and catchers had a lot more company on the Fitch Park fields on Monday. Position players officially reported to Oakland A’s spring training — and all were present and accounted for. Here are some notes from the day.
Vimael Machin shines to kick off 2B race
Maybe it isn’t fair to call it a race — second base is crowded, with Tony Kemp brought in as a veteran left-handed option to supplant right-handers Jorge Mateo and Franklin Barreto as possible platoon options. Machin came aboard in an A’s trade with the Philadelphia Phillies, who picked him up from the Chicago Cubs in the Rule 5 Draft at the Winter Meetings in December.
Machin, 25, was in his native Peurto Rico playing winter ball for the Crilloles de Caguas when he got the call from A’s general manager David Forst. He was headed to Oakland, Forst told a groggy Machin — he’d been asleep when the phone rang, doubling the shock.
“It surprised, me to be honest,” Machin said. “(Forst) explained what happened to me with the Rule 5 pick and trade with the Phillies. I wasn’t expecting it, but I had an idea because it was my last year with the Cubs.”
The Rule 5 stipulates that Machin stay on the 26-man roster for the entirety of the regular season, if demoted he must be offered back to the Cubs. But he’s not taking his quasi-guaranteed spot for granted.
“Just because I’m here and got the Rule 5 pick, doesn’t mean that I have the job,” Machin said. “I have to execute and perform. I took winter ball as my spring training and it actually helped me. Here I’ll just put everything together and see what happens.”
Machin sparkled in winter ball, batting .333 with a .360 OBP and .838 OPS. He didn’t hit any home runs in winter, and six with double-A Tennessee and one with the Iowa Cubs last season. He’ll tell you he’s not a power hitter.
“More of a contact hitter, not power,” Machin said. “I can see a lot of pitches. That’s something that helped me throughout the year and throughout my career here. The ability to get on base is something that most organizations are looking for. To have that is a blessing for me.”
Melvin noted after workouts on Monday that “Mr. Machin,” came as advertised. “He seems to know where the barrel of the bat is,” Melvin said. And we know the A’s value a hitter who prioritizes extending at bats, patience.
The winter ball players have a bit of an edge. Machin treats the Caribbean League like his own spring training, he feels a little more in his groove with those 35 games and 115 at bats under his belt.
Consider this a springboard that may loft Machin high into a hearty chunk of second base reps. Plus, those 120 career games at third and 50 career games at third and first base, respectively, should get him around the diamond a bit, too.
Machin is with a new team, suddenly. But he’s feeling the good vibes already.
“They have good chemistry of young guys and veteran guys, and that’s always good,” he said. “We all know they always make it to the playoffs, so I got excited about it because if I can bring something to the table to help them win, I’m ready to do that.”
Sean Murphy and Austin Allen batting practice
Murphy, Allen and fellow catcher Jonah Heim and outfielder Luis Barrera were in the same batting practice group on Monday. The presumptive starting catcher and back-up catcher demonstrated some eye-popping power.
Allen hit a bomb onto the tiled roof of a house across the way over the right-field fence. Murphy hit a light post well beyond the left field fence at Fitch Park. We knew a bit about Murphy’s knack for power — he hit four towering home runs in 53 at bats last season, and averaged a 90 mph exit velocity. If Allen’s bat turns out to be a plus, he could be another solid option from the left side of the plate.
Rickey Henderson is here
The A’s pitchers and catchers have already gotten to work extensively with Dave Stewart. And on Sunday Hall of Famer Randy Johnson stopped by to share his insights with the left-handed pitchers, like look-a-like A.J. Puk, Jesús Luzardo and Sean Manaea.
A’s icon and new Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee Rickey Henderson arrived with the position players to spread his wisdom and cheer.


mercurynews--2020-02-17--Coronavirus: Infected cruise ship passengers getting care in Nebraska, not California

The American passengers diagnosed with coronavirus infection who were evacuated from a Japanese cruise ship are getting specialized care at a Nebraska hospital and are not part of the large quarantine at Fairfield ’ s Travis Air Force Base , military officials said Monday .
Those 13 individuals — among the 328 U.S. passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship , docked in Yokohama , Japan – were flown to the 20-bed National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center Medicine .
So far , they are showing only mild symptoms of the disease .
One sicker person @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the hospital ’ s Biocontainment Unit , which cared for Ebola patients in 2014 .
Meanwhile , 170 healthy passengers remain in a hotel at Travis Air Force Base , where they are being monitored by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 14 days .
People infected with the respiratory disease may not show symptoms for days .
“ None of the passengers currently on the installation have tested positive for ( coronavirus ) or are symptomatic , ” Travis officials said in a statement Monday .
“ If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be transported to an off-base hospital for containment and specialized care.
” Travis is home to two other groups of quarantined evacuees , who arrived from China on Feb. 5 and Feb. 7 .
The outbreak continues to be focused mostly in China , with more than 70,600 cases and 1772 deaths .
While 25 other countries report cases , the clusters are small and isolated .
“ The real issue is whether we are seeing efficient community transmission outside of China and at the present time we are not observing that , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Health Organization ’ s emergencies program , said at a news conference in Geneva .
Also on Monday , Apple released a statement warning that the outbreak will hurt revenue .
Supply is down , because its iPhone manufacturing sites are ramping up more slowly than anticipated .
Demand is down , too , because many Chinese retail stores are closed .
Quarantined at a Travis Air Force Base hotel , ship passenger Sarah Arana posted on Facebook that her room “ is very nice…They have marked off the area around us with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , just not beyond the tape .
It ’ s almost like living in a murder mystery .
I can peer at my neighbors through the windows , but we can ’ t go near each other.
” “ What an amazing journey , ” wrote Arana , a Santa Cruz native .
“ I have no idea where they will send me from here and I ’ m told we don ’ t get a choice .
But it doesn ’ t even matter .
I am back home.
” While confined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Arana listened to music by singer-songwriter Cat Power , drank hot tea and did art projects , she wrote .
On Valentine ’ s Day , the cabin crew delivered roses , chocolate and Vitamin C. When it was time to evacuate the ship , “ American doctors knocked on my door to check on me .
They were all in white hazmat suits .
They could not touch me or come near me , ” she wrote .
“ When I heard their voices though , the sound of those familiar American @ @ @ @ @ @ @ U.S. health officials considered it unsafe to leave Americans on the ship , docked in Yokohama , Japan , and flew them on two cargo planes to the United States on Sunday night to Fairfield and Joint Base San Antonio in Texas .
Australia , Italy , Hong Kong and Canada were planning similar evacuations .
The cruise suffered an outbreak after the virus was diagnosed in a man who had disembarked days earlier in Hong Kong .
After consultations with health experts , the U.S. Centers for Disease Control decided to let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yet shown symptoms , board the cargo jets to Travis Air Force Base and Joint Base San Antonio in Texas .
Because they were all asymptomatic , health authorities deemed them “ fit to fly , ” the State Department and the Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement Monday .
Passengers reported on social media that the infected passengers were segregated on the airplane and separated by a plastic tarp .
The flight carrying the Americans landed at Travis around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday , according to the Travis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 1,669 as US passengers trapped on cruise ship wait to fly home Their arrival doubles the number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus disease , named COVID-19 , in the U.S .
There are now 29 cases , up from 15 .
While this disease has been more infectious than the SARS outbreak in 2003 , it has been far less lethal .
Experts estimate a fatality rate between one and two percent for COVID-19 , with the majority of the fatalities being in people with other medical conditions .
The infected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aircraft parking area at Omaha ’ s Eppley Airfield and did not enter the terminal .
They boarded a bus and were driven straight to the National Quarantine Unit .
They will be closely monitored and tested for the virus before leaving the Quarantine Unit .
“ We were there for Ebola , we were there for the rescued Americans now being monitored at Camp Ashland and we ’ re going to be there for these American citizens as well , ” said Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold , chancellor of the University of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Omaha .

The American passengers diagnosed with coronavirus infection who were evacuated from a Japanese-based cruise ship are getting specialized care at a Nebraska hospital and are not part of the large quarantine at Fairfield’s Travis Air Force Base, military officials said Monday.
Those 13 individuals — among the 328 U.S. passengers of the Diamond Princess cruise ship, docked in Yokohama, Japan – were flown to the 20-bed National Quarantine Unit at the University of Nebraska Medical Center Medicine. So far, they are showing only mild symptoms of the disease. One sicker person is getting a higher level of care at the hospital’s Biocontainment Unit, which cared for Ebola patients in 2014.
“These are my fellow Americans and they deserved to be able to come home,” said Santa Cruz native and ship passenger Sarah Arana, who was on the same flight and is healthy. People known to be infected sat in a separate part of the plane, she added.
Arana and about 170 other uninfected passengers are being held at Travis Air Force Base, where they are being monitored by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for 14 days.
“None of the passengers currently on the installation have tested positive for (coronavirus) or are symptomatic,” Travis officials said in a statement Monday. “If any passenger displays symptoms, they will be transported to an off-base hospital for containment and specialized care.”
Travis is home to two other groups of quarantined evacuees, who arrived from China on Feb. 5 and Feb. 7.
The outbreak continues to be focused mostly in China, with more than 70,600 cases and 1,772 deaths. While 25 other countries report cases, the clusters are small and isolated.
“The real issue is whether we are seeing efficient community transmission outside of China and at the present time we are not observing that,” Mike Ryan, head of World Health Organization’s emergencies program, said at a news conference in Geneva.
Also on Monday, Apple released a statement warning that the outbreak will hurt revenue. Supply is down, because its iPhone manufacturing sites are ramping up more slowly than anticipated. Demand is down, too, because many Chinese retail stores are closed.
Resting at a Travis Air Force Base hotel after an hours-long wait on a bus, then transcontinental flight, passenger Arana commended U.S. health officials.
“We were surrounded by experts in the field who took every precaution imaginable,” she recalled.
Upon landing, they were greeted by crowds and “Welcome home!” signs, she said. It was 2 a.m. and pitch dark, but “I’ll never forget it….I could feel it deep in my bones.”
Rooms at Travis Air Force Base are “very nice,” she said. “They have marked off the area around us with police tape. I can go outside, just not beyond the tape. It’s almost like living in a murder mystery. I can peer at my neighbors through the windows, but we can’t go near each other.”
“What an amazing journey,” said Arana. “I have no idea where they will send me from here and I’m told we don’t get a choice. But it doesn’t even matter. I am back home.”
While confined to her cabin aboard the ship, Arana listened to music by singer-songwriter Cat Power, drank hot tea and did art projects, she wrote. On Valentine’s Day, the cabin crew delivered roses, chocolate and Vitamin C.
When it was time to evacuate the ship, “American doctors knocked on my door to check on me. They were all in white hazmat suits. They could not touch me or come near me,” she wrote. “When I heard their voices though, the sound of those familiar American voices, it was immediately comforting.”
U.S. health officials considered it unsafe to leave Americans on the ship, docked in Yokohama, Japan, and flew them on two cargo planes to the United States on Sunday night to Fairfield and Joint Base San Antonio in Texas. Australia, Italy, Hong Kong and Canada were planning similar evacuations.
The cruise suffered an outbreak after the virus was diagnosed in a man who had disembarked days earlier in Hong Kong.
After consultations with health experts, the U.S. CDC decided to let the infected evacuees, who had not yet shown symptoms, board the cargo jets to Travis Air Force Base and Joint Base San Antonio in Texas.
Because the passengers were all asymptomatic, health authorities deemed them “fit to fly,” the State Department and the Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement Monday.
The flight carrying the Americans landed at Travis around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, according to the Travis spokesman. Related Articles Health | San Jose office building wobbles into default — again
San Jose office building wobbles into default — again Health | College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds
College students blocked from campus when COVID hit want money back. Some are getting refunds Health | One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining
One controversial East Bay parklet reveals dilemmas of pandemic dining Health | 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 Health | COVID Q&A: Can I use an expired test? Time to get boosted? How to cope with California’s sneaky summer surge
Their arrival nearly doubles the number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus disease, named COVID-19, in the U.S. There are now 29 cases, up from 15.
While this disease has been more infectious than the SARS outbreak in 2003, it has been far less lethal. Experts estimate a fatality rate between one and two percent for COVID-19, with the majority of the fatalities being in people with other medical conditions.
The infected Americans arrived at a remote and isolated aircraft parking area at Omaha’s Eppley Airfield and did not enter the terminal. They boarded a bus and were driven straight to the National Quarantine Unit. They will be closely monitored and tested for the virus before leaving the Quarantine Unit.
“We were there for Ebola, we were there for the rescued Americans now being monitored at Camp Ashland and we’re going to be there for these American citizens as well,” said Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, chancellor of the University of Nebraska Medical Center and University of Nebraska at Omaha.