latimes--2020-03-14--Chair of California Coastal Commission confirms he tested positive for coronavirus

The chair of the California Coastal Commission has tested positive for coronavirus — after leading the panel ’ s monthly meeting earlier this week , officials said late Saturday .
Steve Padilla , who also serves on the Chula Vista City Council , left the meeting early after developing symptoms and said he was back home and recovering .
“ I feel healthy , strong and safe , ” he said in a statement .
“ Following the guidance of County Public Health officials , I ’ m self-isolating and working remotely to serve Chula Vista.
” “ This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fever , body aches , headaches , chills — came on very rapidly , ” he said .
“ My main concern now is for the well-being of others .
My friends and family have been informed and are taking the necessary steps — but it ’ s my duty to be transparent for the entire community .
I must be mindful of all I ’ ve come in contact with in my service as your Councilman and Coastal Commissioner.
” The coastal commission , the regulatory body tasked with managing development along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ meets every month for three days in cities up and down the state .
Attendance was lighter than usual at the meeting Wednesday , Thursday and Friday at the Hilton Santa Cruz Hotel in Scotts Valley , as heightened anxiety over COVID-19 rippled across the state and world .
Still , dozens had shown up to express their concerns about desalination and water treatment infrastructure on the coast , beach parking fees and curfews at Cowell and Main beaches in Santa Cruz .
Many issues on the agenda had been postponed or canceled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ room jump whenever someone coughed .
Lawyers , lobbyists , environmentalists and coastal officials elbow-bumped each other instead of shaking hands , and everyone laughed — but was also relieved — to see commission staff run to the microphone with Clorox wipes in between each person who stepped up to the podium to give their three minutes of public comments .
A longtime coastal commissioner , Padilla was appointed to the 12-member board by Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon .
He was recently elected by fellow commissioners to lead the statewide panel .
Jack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ director , had informed the staff and the public that amid escalating public health concerns over containing the spread of the coronavirus , the commission was looking into ways to host its April meeting , scheduled to be held in Oxnard City Hall , online instead .
Other government agencies and legislative committees in Sacramento have also been scrambling to find online options for their regularly scheduled meetings .
Padilla said he will keep the public posted on his condition .
He urged the community to take precautions .
“ Now , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to care for others , ” he said .
“ Be mindful of seniors .
And look out for one another — even when we have to keep a distance .
”

The chair of the California Coastal Commission has tested positive for coronavirus — after leading the panel’s monthly meeting earlier this week, officials said late Saturday.
Steve Padilla, who also serves on the Chula Vista City Council, left the meeting early after developing symptoms and said he was back home and recovering.
“I feel healthy, strong and safe,” he said in a statement. “Following the guidance of County Public Health officials, I’m self-isolating and working remotely to serve Chula Vista.”
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“This is a scary time. My symptoms — fever, body aches, headaches, chills — came on very rapidly,” he said. “My main concern now is for the well-being of others. My friends and family have been informed and are taking the necessary steps — but it’s my duty to be transparent for the entire community. I must be mindful of all I’ve come in contact with in my service as your Councilman and Coastal Commissioner.”
The coastal commission, the regulatory body tasked with managing development along the state’s 1,200-mile coastline, meets every month for three days in cities up and down the state.
Attendance was lighter than usual at the meeting Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at the Hilton Santa Cruz Hotel in Scotts Valley, as heightened anxiety over COVID-19 rippled across the state and world. Still, dozens had shown up to express their concerns about desalination and water treatment infrastructure on the coast, beach parking fees and curfews at Cowell and Main beaches in Santa Cruz.
Many issues on the agenda had been postponed or canceled, and you could almost feel the room jump whenever someone coughed. Lawyers, lobbyists, environmentalists and coastal officials elbow-bumped each other instead of shaking hands, and everyone laughed — but was also relieved — to see commission staff run to the microphone with Clorox wipes in between each person who stepped up to the podium to give their three minutes of public comments.
A longtime coastal commissioner, Padilla was appointed to the 12-member board by Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon. He was recently elected by fellow commissioners to lead the statewide panel.
Jack Ainsworth, the commission’s executive director, had informed the staff and the public that amid escalating public health concerns over containing the spread of the coronavirus, the commission was looking into ways to host its April meeting, scheduled to be held in Oxnard City Hall, online instead.
Other government agencies and legislative committees in Sacramento have also been scrambling to find online options for their regularly scheduled meetings.
Padilla said he will keep the public posted on his condition. He urged the community to take precautions.
“Now, is when community really matters. We need to care for others,” he said. “Be mindful of seniors. And look out for one another — even when we have to keep a distance.”


latimes--2020-03-14--Cold storms are on tap for Southern California as a low system moves down the coast

A series of cold Pacific storms is expected to bring significant rain and mountain snow to Southern California beginning Sunday , the National Weather Service said .
The cold front , already bringing showers to the San Francisco Bay Area on Saturday afternoon , was expected to continue its slow march southward , with rain showers spreading to the south and east .
Instability behind the front raised the possibility of thunderstorms , and lightning strikes and small hail were reported near Redding .
Rain is expected to begin to arrive in Santa Barbara County Sunday , and spread throughout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with potentially heavy rain at times into Monday night .
Rainfall could be heavier over south- and southwest-facing foothills and coastal slopes .
Because of the cold nature of the storm , snow levels will start out at 5,000 feet on Monday and lower to 4,000 feet Monday night .
Eventually they will dip to 3,000 feet on Tuesday .
Low snow levels are expected to affect travel in the mountains , with road closures possible through major passes , including Interstate 5 over the Grapevine on Tuesday and Wednesday .
Scattered showers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isolated showers Wednesday , the weather service said .
On Tuesday , the low is forecast to shift farther to the west than originally predicted .
Instability in the atmosphere will result in a slight chance for thunderstorms , during which brief , heavy downpours are possible .
On Saturday afternoon , the National Weather Service office in Monterey reported ongoing shower activity and high elevation snow with the system , which was described as slow-moving , allowing rain amounts to add up .
According to the weather service , rainfall amounts for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a quarter-inch — and as much as a half-inch in a few places — were the biggest rainfall totals in Northern California since late January .
All of this is good news for a dry California .
The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor released Thursday shows almost half of the state to be in moderate drought .

A series of cold Pacific storms is expected to bring significant rain and mountain snow to Southern California beginning Sunday, the National Weather Service said.
The cold front, already bringing showers to the San Francisco Bay Area on Saturday afternoon, was expected to continue its slow march southward, with rain showers spreading to the south and east. Instability behind the front raised the possibility of thunderstorms, and lightning strikes and small hail were reported near Redding.
Rain is expected to begin to arrive in Santa Barbara County Sunday, and spread throughout the Los Angeles region on Monday, with potentially heavy rain at times into Monday night. Rainfall could be heavier over south- and southwest-facing foothills and coastal slopes.
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Because of the cold nature of the storm, snow levels will start out at 5,000 feet on Monday and lower to 4,000 feet Monday night. Eventually they will dip to 3,000 feet on Tuesday. Low snow levels are expected to affect travel in the mountains, with road closures possible through major passes, including Interstate 5 over the Grapevine on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Scattered showers will continue Tuesday, with light, isolated showers Wednesday, the weather service said. On Tuesday, the low is forecast to shift farther to the west than originally predicted. Instability in the atmosphere will result in a slight chance for thunderstorms, during which brief, heavy downpours are possible.
Most reporting stations in the state are below seasonal norms for precipitation. (Paul Duginski / Los Angeles Times)
On Saturday afternoon, the National Weather Service office in Monterey reported ongoing shower activity and high elevation snow with the system, which was described as slow-moving, allowing rain amounts to add up. According to the weather service, rainfall amounts for the preceding 12 hours of a tenth to a quarter-inch — and as much as a half-inch in a few places — were the biggest rainfall totals in Northern California since late January.
All of this is good news for a dry California. The most recent U.S. Drought Monitor released Thursday shows almost half of the state to be in moderate drought.


latimes--2020-03-14--Mammoth Mountain, Big Bear, Squaw Valley and sister ski resorts to close until further notice

Even forecasts of heavy snow can ’ t keep California ’ s most popular ski resort open amid the growing coronavirus outbreak .
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area in the eastern Sierra and 14 other resorts in North America will close Sunday until further notice , the Denver-based operator of the resorts , Alterra Mountain Co. , announced Saturday .
The company issued a brief statement attributing the closures to the outbreak and “ the best interests of our guests , employees and local communities.
” Alterra is also closing June Mountain in the eastern Sierra , Squaw Valley and Alpine @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Bear Mountain Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains , among other resorts in Vermont , West Virginia , Utah and Washington state .
Vail Resorts , one of the world ’ s largest ski resort operators , also announced it would close its North American slopes , starting Sunday until March 22 , to give management “ time to reassess our approach for the rest of the season , ” the company said in an online statement .
The Vail closures will include Northstar , Kirkwood and Heavenly ski resorts in the Lake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Utah , Colorado and British Columbia , Canada .
The ski resorts are among the growing list of businesses , including casinos and theme parks , that are temporarily closing as officials advise against large gatherings .
Mammoth Mountain had already reduced staff in the last few days because storms had dropped only 138 inches of snow so far this season .
But the closure comes despite forecasts of nearly seven straight days of snowfall on the way .
Responding to the coronavirus outbreak , the resort announced earlier in the week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and tried to limit gondolas and shuttle buses to the resort to 50 % of capacity .
In the lodges , the resort eliminated some chairs and tables “ to allow for social distancing.
” “ We are continuing to take every precaution to protect our employees , guests and partners , and will continue to follow guidance from state , county and local public health officials , ” Lauren Burke , a spokeswoman for Mammoth Mountain , said Friday .
Alterra said each resort will work with guests to cancel reservations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a year after California and Nevada ski resorts reported about 7.3 million skiers and snowboarders , a 17 % increase from the previous season .
The skiers were drawn to the slopes by a ski season — October to March — that inundated the two Western states with snowfall that was 47 % above the averages for the previous 16 seasons , according to Ski California , the nonprofit trade group for the states ’ ski resorts .
Michael L. Reitzell , president of Ski California , said Friday that he did not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sales so far but added that the season had started strong .
He noted that other resorts , including Sierra-at-Tahoe and Boreal-Woodward Tahoe , had either canceled events or limited capacity in response to the outbreak .
Mountain High in Wrightwood , Snow Valley in the San Bernardino Mountains and Mt .
Baldy in the San Gabriel Mountains remained opened Saturday with reports of up to 14 inches of new snow .

Mammoth Mountain and 14 other North American ski resorts operated by Alterra Mountain Co. will close amid the coronavirus outbreak.
Even forecasts of heavy snow can’t keep California’s most popular ski resort open amid the growing coronavirus outbreak.
Mammoth Mountain Ski Area in the eastern Sierra and 14 other resorts in North America will close Sunday until further notice, the Denver-based operator of the resorts, Alterra Mountain Co., announced Saturday.
The company issued a brief statement attributing the closures to the outbreak and “the best interests of our guests, employees and local communities.”
Alterra is also closing June Mountain in the eastern Sierra, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows near Lake Tahoe, and Big Bear Mountain Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains, among other resorts in Vermont, West Virginia, Utah and Washington state.
Vail Resorts, one of the world’s largest ski resort operators, also announced it would close its North American slopes, starting Sunday until March 22, to give management “time to reassess our approach for the rest of the season,” the company said in an online statement.
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The Vail closures will include Northstar, Kirkwood and Heavenly ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area, as well as resorts in Utah, Colorado and British Columbia, Canada.
The ski resorts are among the growing list of businesses, including casinos and theme parks, that are temporarily closing as officials advise against large gatherings.
Mammoth Mountain had already reduced staff in the last few days because storms had dropped only 138 inches of snow so far this season. But the closure comes despite forecasts of nearly seven straight days of snowfall on the way.
Responding to the coronavirus outbreak, the resort announced earlier in the week that crews had regularly disinfected gondola lifts and tried to limit gondolas and shuttle buses to the resort to 50% of capacity.
In the lodges, the resort eliminated some chairs and tables “to allow for social distancing.”
“We are continuing to take every precaution to protect our employees, guests and partners, and will continue to follow guidance from state, county and local public health officials,” Lauren Burke, a spokeswoman for Mammoth Mountain, said Friday.
Alterra said each resort will work with guests to cancel reservations and provide refunds.
The closure comes only a year after California and Nevada ski resorts reported about 7.3 million skiers and snowboarders, a 17% increase from the previous season. The skiers were drawn to the slopes by a ski season — October to March — that inundated the two Western states with snowfall that was 47% above the averages for the previous 16 seasons, according to Ski California, the nonprofit trade group for the states’ ski resorts.
Michael L. Reitzell, president of Ski California, said Friday that he did not have an estimate of ski lift ticket sales so far but added that the season had started strong. He noted that other resorts, including Sierra-at-Tahoe and Boreal-Woodward Tahoe, had either canceled events or limited capacity in response to the outbreak.
Mountain High in Wrightwood, Snow Valley in the San Bernardino Mountains and Mt. Baldy in the San Gabriel Mountains remained opened Saturday with reports of up to 14 inches of new snow.


latimes--2020-03-14--Los Angeles County Library closes all branches through the end of the month

The Los Angeles County Library will close all of its 86 locations beginning Sunday and continuing through the end of the month to comply with new state restrictions limiting the size of social gatherings at public places , officials said .
“ After careful consideration , and discussions with local health authorities , we have decided to close our libraries in an abundance of caution and to help prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19 , ” Library Director Skye Patrick said in a statement .
“ We understand the impact this can potentially cause on customers and will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ updates.
” Patrons can contact their local L.A. County Library branch with questions about resources and services .
Visit LACountyLibrary.org/library-locator to find contact information .
The library will continue to staff phone lines for reference services from Monday through Friday , 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Teachers , parents and caregivers can also contact library staff for resources and engagement tips for children while they are home from school .
Due dates for borrowed materials will automatically be extended , no late fines will be assessed , and customers can return materials when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to utilize the digital resources available 24/7 , including access to e-books , audiobooks , movies and TV shows , digital magazines , music and more .
The separate Los Angeles Public Library system announced Friday that it would close all branches through March 31 , extend due dates and waive late fines .
Visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov for more background information on the coronavirus , symptoms and resources .

A library patron and her daughter browse the stacks at L.A. County Library’s La Cañada Flintridge branch in 2012. All 86 of the system’s locations will close beginning Sunday.
The Los Angeles County Library will close all of its 86 locations beginning Sunday and continuing through the end of the month to comply with new state restrictions limiting the size of social gatherings at public places, officials said.
“After careful consideration, and discussions with local health authorities, we have decided to close our libraries in an abundance of caution and to help prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19,” Library Director Skye Patrick said in a statement. “We understand the impact this can potentially cause on customers and will continue to monitor the situation closely to provide updates.”
Patrons can contact their local L.A. County Library branch with questions about resources and services. Visit LACountyLibrary.org/library-locator to find contact information.
The library will continue to staff phone lines for reference services from Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Teachers, parents and caregivers can also contact library staff for resources and engagement tips for children while they are home from school.
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Due dates for borrowed materials will automatically be extended, no late fines will be assessed, and customers can return materials when the library reopens. Customers are encouraged to utilize the digital resources available 24/7, including access to e-books, audiobooks, movies and TV shows, digital magazines, music and more.
The separate Los Angeles Public Library system announced Friday that it would close all branches through March 31, extend due dates and waive late fines.
Visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov for more background information on the coronavirus, symptoms and resources.


latimes--2020-03-14--California records dozens of new coronavirus cases. Here is what you need to know

Coronavirus continued its spread across California , with many counties including Los Angeles reporting new cases .
The numbers reflect more people getting tested but also what officials say is the certainty that the virus is spreading into communities .
Santa Clara County so far has been hardest hit , with 91 cases and two deaths .
Officials have urged people to follow social isolation and have prohibited many types of public gatherings .
But on Saturday , stores were raided by shoppers , many who found some of their go-to product shelves empty .
Here is a sampling of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Two healthcare workers at UC San Diego Health have confirmed COVID-19 infections and are now on home quarantine , according to a statement released by the university Saturday afternoon .
The university ’ s statement did not specify which facilities the employees work at or their positions .
It was also unclear whether either employee was wearing personal protective equipment while on duty .
Both employees are said to be in good health , and the university has “ launched an extensive effort to identify any patients or health system colleagues who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ either of the two health workers.
” STANFORD : A Stanford University undergraduate tested positive for , prompting more actions on campus .
“ This student is now self-isolating .
Our teams are currently doing contact tracing and are working to inform and provide guidance to all close contacts of the individual as soon as possible , ” Stanford said in a .
LOS ANGELES : The county reported 11 new cases .
Two of the people among the most recent cases reported are hospitalized , the L.A. County Department of Public Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cases are suspected to be related to travel and four had close contact with another confirmed case , officials said .
Two of the cases have an unidentified source of exposure , meaning they could be more evidence of “ community spread , ” officials said .
RIVERSIDE : Officials announced that a former patient at the Coachella Valley nursing home has the coronavirus , prompting them to test workers and patients at the facility The county public health department said the patient spent time at Rancho Mirage Health and Rehabilitation Center before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COUNTY : The county now has of coronavirus that appears to have spread through the community as the total number of presumed cases rose to 13 .
The Orange County Health Care Agency said a woman and is now hospitalized in stable condition .
No other details were provided .

Alex Wigglesworth, Rong-Gong Lin II, Ruben Vives, Richard Winton

Orange County shoppers encounter empty shelves Friday at a Target in Cypress, Calif. Southern California residents have been stocking up on supplies amid fears of the coronavirus.
Coronavirus continued its spread across California, with many counties including Los Angeles reporting new cases.
The numbers reflect more people getting tested but also what officials say is the certainty that the virus is spreading into communities. Santa Clara County so far has been hardest hit, with 91 cases and two deaths.
Officials have urged people to follow social isolation and have prohibited many types of public gatherings.
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But on Saturday, stores were raided by shoppers, many who found some of their go-to product shelves empty.
Here is a sampling of the new case totals:
Los Angeles: 54
San Francisco: 28
Santa Clara: 91
Sacramento: 29
Orange: 13
San Diego:
Riverside: 14
Contra Costa: 29
San Mateo: 26
Among the events today:
SAN DIEGO: Two healthcare workers at UC San Diego Health have confirmed COVID-19 infections and are now on home quarantine, according to a statement released by the university Saturday afternoon. The university’s statement did not specify which facilities the employees work at or their positions. It was also unclear whether either employee was wearing personal protective equipment while on duty. Both employees are said to be in good health, and the university has “launched an extensive effort to identify any patients or health system colleagues who may have been in recent contact with either of the two health workers.”
STANFORD: A Stanford University undergraduate tested positive for the coronavirus , prompting more actions on campus. “This student is now self-isolating. Our teams are currently doing contact tracing and are working to inform and provide guidance to all close contacts of the individual as soon as possible,” Stanford said in a statement .
LOS ANGELES: The county reported 11 new cases. Two of the people among the most recent cases reported are hospitalized, the L.A. County Department of Public Health said in a news release. Two cases are suspected to be related to travel and four had close contact with another confirmed case, officials said. Two of the cases have an unidentified source of exposure, meaning they could be more evidence of “community spread,” officials said.
RIVERSIDE: Officials announced that a former patient at the Coachella Valley nursing home has the coronavirus, prompting them to test workers and patients at the facility The county public health department said the patient spent time at Rancho Mirage Health and Rehabilitation Center before being transferred to a hospital.


latimes--2020-03-14--Fans escape reality at Disneyland before it closes. For service workers, uncertainty abounds

When Anna Bautista learned that the “ Happiest Place on Earth ” would shut down Friday for the remainder of the month , she immediately cleared her calendar and texted her sister : “ Let ’ s go .
Last day to go to Disney before they close.
” A minute later , her sister , Diana , was on board .
They booked a hotel near the Disneyland Resort , packed their suitcases and left their San Diego home Thursday night after work to try to squeeze in as much time as possible inside the park .
“ Anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Friday night as she waited to watch the final fireworks spectacle in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle that was ultimately canceled because of bad weather .
For several dedicated Disney fans , it was clear it would take much more than gloomy skies and the COVID-19 pandemic to keep them from enjoying the last hurrah Friday before the Anaheim theme park temporarily shut down following Gov .
Gavin Newsom ’ s recommendation that gatherings of 250 or more people be canceled across the state .
Disneyland was still the place where people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life ’ s cold realities .
Souvenir shops along Main Street , U.S.A. , bustled with tourists and locals who bought limited edition collectibles as well as ponchos to shield themselves from the rain .
Families and couples waited in line near the Mad Hatter gift shop to pose for photos with characters such as Goofy and Minnie Mouse .
It seemed like a normal day during the off-season , but small details revealed how much fear over the spread of the virus had seeped into people ’ s daily lives — even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over for creating fantasy and magic since 1955 .
Some visitors wore masks or gloves .
Signs installed near bathroom sinks encouraged people to wash their hands for 20 seconds .
Cast members and tourists alike could be overheard talking about how they had to amend vacation plans and work shifts .
Usually crowded attractions such as Indiana Jones Adventure , Splash Mountain and Star Tours had five-minute wait times .
The Millennium Falcon : Smugglers Run , inside the new Star Wars : Galaxy ’ s Edge land that drew in record @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had only a 10-minute wait .
It ’ s well known among annual passholders that rainy days are usually the best days to visit the amusement park , so much so that it often defeats the purpose of going on those days — except for this Friday .
“ Lines are shorter than usual ; I ’ ve never seen it like this , ” Diana Bautista said .
“ The boarding group for Rise of the Resistance is impossible to get after 8:03 a.m. , and when we got our pass , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we got those passes , and we just started walking around Fantasyland and spreading out from there.
” At dusk , Sleeping Beauty ’ s Castle ’ s baby pink and royal blue hues popped against the sky ’ s dark , gloomy background .
With a horde of people all trying to get the same photo of the castle , Jose Carlos Vazquez , 26 , and his girlfriend , Mariana Zauzeta , 25 , took advantage of the moment with open real estate .
Vazquez snapped photos of his girlfriend , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wearing pink lollipop Minnie Mouse ears , facing the castle while she extended her arm back and held her boyfriend ’ s hand .
Neither the rain nor the virus were going to make them cancel the quick getaway they had planned a month in advance , especially given that Vazquez had promised his girlfriend , he said .
The couple flew from Sinaloa , Mexico , to Tijuana and rented a car to drive to San Diego and up the coast .
“ It ’ s a risk we had to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ We ’ re healthy.
” A family of eight shared similar sentiments about their trip to Disneyland .
They had planned their trip from Arizona to Anaheim since December as a final family vacation before Devan Heilman joined the Navy .
With Friday being the last day the park would be open , Heilman said , they booked a separate hotel and were forced to amend their itinerary .
“ We haven ’ t been to Disney in quite some time , and we ’ re all big Star Wars fans , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can ’ t miss , ” Heilman said .
“ It ’ s like mecca for Star War fans .
It ’ s a must-see , once-in-your-lifetime experience.
” Heilman , 21 , and his brother Garrett Heilman , 18 , broke off from their family and spent the majority of their time inside Star Wars : Galaxy ’ s Edge .
Dressed in a beige Jedi tunic and carrying a red Darth Vader lightsaber , Garrett strategized with Devan , who held his blue Anakin Skywalker lightsaber with pride , about how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Millennium Falcon for photos .
Then two park cast members outfitted as Stormtroopers zeroed in on Garrett , his toy weapon emanating the red light of the Sith .
“ Very impressive .
I ’ m sure the supreme leader would agree , ” the soldiers told him .
“ Your allegiance is noted.
” Exiting the Star Wars land and heading back into Critter Country , one boy sang out loud , “ Coronavirus can ’ t stop us ; if it does we ’ ll kick its butt !
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ didn ’ t appear to extend beyond its gates .
Though Disney said it would continue to pay cast members during the shutdown , outside the park , uncertainty lingered for service workers employed by restaurants and hotels along Harbor Boulevard .
The effects were visible Friday along the boulevard , which is typically congested with foot and vehicular traffic throughout the day .
The area looked more like a ghost town Friday afternoon .
Scattered motorists zoomed by .
Hotel shuttles occasionally passed to unload a handful of guests .
Sidewalks were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marks only the fourth time it has fully suspended operations in its history — the others being after 9-11 , in the wake of the 1994 Northridge earthquake , and the national day of mourning after President Kennedy ’ s assassination in 1963 .
“ Disney is our business , ” said a longtime Candy Cane Inn employee who wasn ’ t authorized to talk to reporters .
The family-owned hotel , which offers a complimentary shuttle to the park for guests not interested in walking less than a mile down the boulevard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s closure .
The front desk employee was slammed Thursday with calls from tourists who wanted to cancel their reservations .
By Friday , only 12 of the 171 rooms were occupied .
Worry over the slowdown was mutual among service workers in the area — some were already hearing they would be transferred to another location or have their hours cut ; others were encouraged to take extended vacation time .
Octavio Rodriguez , 48 , recently quit another hotel job to work at Anaheim Desert Inn and Suites , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the walkway toward Disneyland .
As a new employee , he ’ s tasked with handling laundry , but the Westminster resident said he planned to apply for a front desk position once there was an opening .
With 25 years of experience in the industry , he knew he could move up .
Instead , he ’ s being forced to move on to Plan B .
“ I ’ m basically visiting previous jobs , trying to go back to those places , which [ are ] farther from Disneyland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulling white sheets out of the dryer .
The day before , he and his wife had spent about $ 300 at Ross and Food 4 Less for groceries , clothes and other necessities , not thinking they ’ d be tight on finances soon after .
The gravity of the situation didn ’ t hit him until one of his daughters told him his hotel could shut down .
“ ‘ What are you talking about ?
’ I was like , ‘ What do you mean the hotel is going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ That ’ s right — all of the customers , we get from there .
My imagination is it ’ s going to empty the area , empty the street .
There ’ s going to be no people around this.
” Rodriguez had been so focused on his work , he said , that he didn ’ t realize business had started to slow down .
His son told him that his school , Anaheim High , would also be temporarily closing .
“ He just told me starting tomorrow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weeks , ” Rodriguez said .
Co-worker Araceli Montes , a cleaner for the hotel , tried to focus all her energy on her work for the day .
Her daughter was also recently told she ’ d have to stay home from school .
“ I ’ d be lying to you if I said I had a plan in mind , ” the 39-year-old single mother said in Spanish as she prepared to mop the bathroom floor .

Rainy weather and the fear of the spread of the coronavirus kept crowds sparse at Disneyland on Thursday.
When Anna Bautista learned that the “Happiest Place on Earth” would shut down Friday for the remainder of the month, she immediately cleared her calendar and texted her sister:
“Let’s go. Last day to go to Disney before they close.”
A minute later, her sister, Diana, was on board.
They booked a hotel near the Disneyland Resort, packed their suitcases and left their San Diego home Thursday night after work to try to squeeze in as much time as possible inside the park.
“Anything for the Mouse,” Anna said Friday night as she waited to watch the final fireworks spectacle in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle that was ultimately canceled because of bad weather.
For several dedicated Disney fans, it was clear it would take much more than gloomy skies and the COVID-19 pandemic to keep them from enjoying the last hurrah Friday before the Anaheim theme park temporarily shut down following Gov. Gavin Newsom’s recommendation that gatherings of 250 or more people be canceled across the state.
Entertainment & Arts Coronavirus fallout: Why closing Disneyland is such a blow to American optimism The Happiest Place on Earth shut its gates Friday night due to the coronavirus crisis. A full non-weather-related closure of Disneyland has happened just three times in the park’s 65-year history. But this time is different.
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Disneyland was still the place where people of all ages could visit to escape life’s cold realities. Souvenir shops along Main Street, U.S.A., bustled with tourists and locals who bought limited edition collectibles as well as ponchos to shield themselves from the rain. Families and couples waited in line near the Mad Hatter gift shop to pose for photos with characters such as Goofy and Minnie Mouse.
It seemed like a normal day during the off-season, but small details revealed how much fear over the spread of the virus had seeped into people’s daily lives — even at the theme park famous the world over for creating fantasy and magic since 1955.
Some visitors wore masks or gloves. Signs installed near bathroom sinks encouraged people to wash their hands for 20 seconds. Cast members and tourists alike could be overheard talking about how they had to amend vacation plans and work shifts.
Usually crowded attractions such as Indiana Jones Adventure, Splash Mountain and Star Tours had five-minute wait times. The Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, inside the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land that drew in record crowds when it opened last year, had only a 10-minute wait.
It’s well known among annual passholders that rainy days are usually the best days to visit the amusement park, so much so that it often defeats the purpose of going on those days — except for this Friday.
“Lines are shorter than usual; I’ve never seen it like this,” Diana Bautista said. “The boarding group for Rise of the Resistance is impossible to get after 8:03 a.m., and when we got our pass, it was around 8:12 a.m. So we got those passes, and we just started walking around Fantasyland and spreading out from there.”
At dusk, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle’s baby pink and royal blue hues popped against the sky’s dark, gloomy background. With a horde of people all trying to get the same photo of the castle, Jose Carlos Vazquez, 26, and his girlfriend, Mariana Zauzeta, 25, took advantage of the moment with open real estate.
Vazquez snapped photos of his girlfriend, dressed in a Mickey Mouse sweatshirt and wearing pink lollipop Minnie Mouse ears, facing the castle while she extended her arm back and held her boyfriend’s hand.
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Neither the rain nor the virus were going to make them cancel the quick getaway they had planned a month in advance, especially given that Vazquez had promised his girlfriend, he said. The couple flew from Sinaloa, Mexico, to Tijuana and rented a car to drive to San Diego and up the coast.
“It’s a risk we had to take,” he said in Spanish. “We’re healthy.”
A family of eight shared similar sentiments about their trip to Disneyland. They had planned their trip from Arizona to Anaheim since December as a final family vacation before Devan Heilman joined the Navy. With Friday being the last day the park would be open, Heilman said, they booked a separate hotel and were forced to amend their itinerary.
“We haven’t been to Disney in quite some time, and we’re all big Star Wars fans, and experiencing this is an opportunity you can’t miss,” Heilman said. “It’s like mecca for Star War fans. It’s a must-see, once-in-your-lifetime experience.”
Heilman, 21, and his brother Garrett Heilman, 18, broke off from their family and spent the majority of their time inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Dressed in a beige Jedi tunic and carrying a red Darth Vader lightsaber, Garrett strategized with Devan, who held his blue Anakin Skywalker lightsaber with pride, about how they’d pose in front of the Millennium Falcon for photos.
Then two park cast members outfitted as Stormtroopers zeroed in on Garrett, his toy weapon emanating the red light of the Sith.
“Very impressive. I’m sure the supreme leader would agree,” the soldiers told him. “Your allegiance is noted.”
Exiting the Star Wars land and heading back into Critter Country, one boy sang out loud, “Coronavirus can’t stop us; if it does we’ll kick its butt!”
Disneyland’s magic, however, didn’t appear to extend beyond its gates. Though Disney said it would continue to pay cast members during the shutdown, outside the park, uncertainty lingered for service workers employed by restaurants and hotels along Harbor Boulevard.
The effects were visible Friday along the boulevard, which is typically congested with foot and vehicular traffic throughout the day.
The area looked more like a ghost town Friday afternoon. Scattered motorists zoomed by. Hotel shuttles occasionally passed to unload a handful of guests. Sidewalks were mostly empty.
Disneyland’s closure marks only the fourth time it has fully suspended operations in its history — the others being after 9-11, in the wake of the 1994 Northridge earthquake, and the national day of mourning after President Kennedy’s assassination in 1963.
“Disney is our business,” said a longtime Candy Cane Inn employee who wasn’t authorized to talk to reporters.
The family-owned hotel, which offers a complimentary shuttle to the park for guests not interested in walking less than a mile down the boulevard, immediately felt the effects of Disneyland’s closure.
The front desk employee was slammed Thursday with calls from tourists who wanted to cancel their reservations. By Friday, only 12 of the 171 rooms were occupied.
Worry over the slowdown was mutual among service workers in the area — some were already hearing they would be transferred to another location or have their hours cut; others were encouraged to take extended vacation time.
Octavio Rodriguez, 48, recently quit another hotel job to work at Anaheim Desert Inn and Suites, a bigger hotel in a prime location across from the walkway toward Disneyland.
As a new employee, he’s tasked with handling laundry, but the Westminster resident said he planned to apply for a front desk position once there was an opening. With 25 years of experience in the industry, he knew he could move up.
Instead, he’s being forced to move on to Plan B.
“I’m basically visiting previous jobs, trying to go back to those places, which [are] farther from Disneyland,” Rodriguez said Friday afternoon while pulling white sheets out of the dryer. The day before, he and his wife had spent about $300 at Ross and Food 4 Less for groceries, clothes and other necessities, not thinking they’d be tight on finances soon after.
The gravity of the situation didn’t hit him until one of his daughters told him his hotel could shut down.
“‘What are you talking about?’ I was like, ‘What do you mean the hotel is going to shut down?’ ” Rodriguez recalled. “That’s right — all of the customers, we get from there. My imagination is it’s going to empty the area, empty the street. There’s going to be no people around this.”
Rodriguez had been so focused on his work, he said, that he didn’t realize business had started to slow down. His son told him that his school, Anaheim High, would also be temporarily closing.
“He just told me starting tomorrow, no class for the next two weeks,” Rodriguez said.
Co-worker Araceli Montes, a cleaner for the hotel, tried to focus all her energy on her work for the day. Her daughter was also recently told she’d have to stay home from school.
“I’d be lying to you if I said I had a plan in mind,” the 39-year-old single mother said in Spanish as she prepared to mop the bathroom floor.


latimes--2020-03-14--Commerce Casino employee presumed positive for coronavirus as some California card rooms close

The action was intense Friday at a baccarat table inside the Red Hawk Casino as eight players , most of them elderly , sat elbow to elbow placing bets ahead of the next deal .
Nearby , hundreds of other bettors worked the slot machines in the huge tribal-run gambling hall as cigarette smoke and the jangling sound of jackpots hung in the air .
Recognizing the health risks of such activity during the coronavirus outbreak , six of California ’ s largest card clubs and one Native American casino said Saturday that they plan to temporarily close their doors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ open , including the Red Hawk Casino , face new state guidance aimed at preventing the spread of the virus .
One of the six card clubs , Commerce Casino in Commerce , said Saturday that it had also learned that an employee had tested presumptive positive for COVID-19 .
Along with Commerce Casino , doors are being shut this weekend at the Gardens Casino in Hawaiian Gardens , Bicycle Casino in Bell Gardens and Hollywood Park Casino in Inglewood , the businesses said in a statement , noting the actions came after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to public gatherings of 250 people or more and social distancing of six feet between people in public .
“ In light of the Governor ’ s directive , as well as the nature of this unprecedented threat to public health , the casinos will close operations beginning this weekend , ” the four casinos said in a written statement .
“ This closure will be temporary and all plan to re-open as soon as possible based upon the best available information .
We believe that every business should put public health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' The plan to close Commerce Casino at noon Saturday was made before its operators learned that a new employee tested presumptive positive for COVID-19 , said spokesman Eric Rose , who noted that the employee is receiving medical treatment and has self-quarantined .
Also closing Saturday were two San Jose card clubs , Casino M8trix and Bay 101 Casino , with the latter saying it will be shuttered at least until April 4 .
Late Saturday , the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula announced it was also temporarily closing effective Monday due @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the month “ for the health and safety of our Team Members , Tribal Members , and guests , ” said Mark Macarro , chairman of the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians .
No employees at the resort have tested positive for COVID-19 , Macarro said .
The gambling industry is a big player in the state economy , generating about $ 8 billion annually after winnings , according to state officials .
The four Los Angeles County card clubs that are closing employ 8,000 workers and serve more than 20,000 patrons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to 63 casinos operated by Native American tribes .
The businesses can pose health challenges at a time of virus pandemic , health experts say .
There are particular concerns at casinos that allow smoking and operate slot machines , attracting a large elderly clientele .
“ Certainly the elderly are at greater risk , ” said Elisa K. Tong , a general internist with UC Davis Health , adding that “ smoking harms the immune system and can make the body less successful at fighting disease.
” While many public gathering spots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been shut down or subject to restrictions to prevent spread of the coronavirus , crowds continue to flock to casinos .
For tribes that operate casinos , including the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians , federal law provides sovereignty that limits the ability of the state to dictate how they operate on Indian land , according to legal experts .
“ They are not bound to follow any state decree unless Congress orders them to , ” said gambling law expert I. Nelson Rose , professor emeritus at Whittier Law School .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ voluntarily agree , similar to what Disneyland did.
” “ We ’ ve been meeting with our partners in our tribal nations , ” Newsom said .
“ The complexity of their unique circumstances requires additional conversation , a different kind of engagement , and in real time we ’ re in those conversations and engagement.
” But new guidelines released late Friday urge all gambling venues to limit the number of customers in single rooms or equivalent space to 250 or fewer , and increase the frequency of cleaning chips , shuffling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also asks gambling halls to make sure social distancing standards are met for non-family members and eliminate marketing that targets vulnerable populations and people at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 .
State officials acknowledge the sovereignty issues but hope tribal casinos will follow their guidance .
So far , most tribes are keeping their casinos operating , while taking other actions to address public concerns , including stepped-up disinfecting of gambling equipment .
The new state guidelines are being followed at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln , which is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said spokesman Douglas Elmets .
The casino is consulting with the National Indian Gaming Commission on best practices to keep patrons safe , and is working with government agencies to pursue “ concrete steps to confront this threat in a responsible but rational manner as we learn more about the virus , ” Elmets said .
Tribal officials withShingle Springs did not respond Saturday to questions about whether they would follow the new state guidance .
California tribes wield significant political influence at the state Capitol , spending millions of dollars annually on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operators contributed more than $ 250,000 to Newsom ’ s 2018 campaign for governor , with eight tribes giving the maximum $ 29,200 each including the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians , Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians .
At the Red Hawk Casino in Shingle Springs , patrons scoffed at the idea that gambling halls should be shuttered , with many saying they are willing to bet that the news on the virus is overblown .
“ I don ’ t panic and I will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as he left the casino .
A woman who identified herself as Penny and who made the hourlong trip from Elk Grove , said crowded shopping malls should be shuttered before casinos close their doors .
“ I come here three times a week , ” she said .
“ Don ’ t shut my place down .
”

The Gardens Casino in Hawaiian Gardens is one of a half dozen temporarily shutting down in response to the coronavirus outbreak.
The action was intense Friday at a baccarat table inside the Red Hawk Casino as eight players, most of them elderly, sat elbow to elbow placing bets ahead of the next deal.
Nearby, hundreds of other bettors worked the slot machines in the huge tribal-run gambling hall as cigarette smoke and the jangling sound of jackpots hung in the air.
For the record: The original version of this story incorrectly said that California’s 86 licensed card clubs have 8,000 employees and draw more than 20,000 visitors per day. The employee and visitor figures apply to the four card clubs closing in L.A. County.
Recognizing the health risks of such activity during the coronavirus outbreak, six of California’s largest card clubs and one Native American casino said Saturday that they plan to temporarily close their doors, while other gambling venues that remain open, including the Red Hawk Casino, face new state guidance aimed at preventing the spread of the virus.
One of the six card clubs, Commerce Casino in Commerce, said Saturday that it had also learned that an employee had tested presumptive positive for COVID-19.
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Along with Commerce Casino, doors are being shut this weekend at the Gardens Casino in Hawaiian Gardens, Bicycle Casino in Bell Gardens and Hollywood Park Casino in Inglewood, the businesses said in a statement, noting the actions came after Gov. Gavin Newsom recommended a halt to public gatherings of 250 people or more and social distancing of six feet between people in public.
“In light of the Governor’s directive, as well as the nature of this unprecedented threat to public health, the casinos will close operations beginning this weekend,” the four casinos said in a written statement. “This closure will be temporary and all plan to re-open as soon as possible based upon the best available information. We believe that every business should put public health and the safety of people above profits …”
The plan to close Commerce Casino at noon Saturday was made before its operators learned that a new employee tested presumptive positive for COVID-19, said spokesman Eric Rose, who noted that the employee is receiving medical treatment and has self-quarantined.
Also closing Saturday were two San Jose card clubs, Casino M8trix and Bay 101 Casino, with the latter saying it will be shuttered at least until April 4.
Late Saturday, the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula announced it was also temporarily closing effective Monday due to the COVID-19 pandemic through the end of the month “for the health and safety of our Team Members, Tribal Members, and guests,” said Mark Macarro, chairman of the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians. No employees at the resort have tested positive for COVID-19, Macarro said.
The gambling industry is a big player in the state economy, generating about $8 billion annually after winnings, according to state officials. The four Los Angeles County card clubs that are closing employ 8,000 workers and serve more than 20,000 patrons per day.
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California also is home to 63 casinos operated by Native American tribes. The businesses can pose health challenges at a time of virus pandemic, health experts say.
There are particular concerns at casinos that allow smoking and operate slot machines, attracting a large elderly clientele.
“Certainly the elderly are at greater risk,” said Elisa K. Tong, a general internist with UC Davis Health, adding that “smoking harms the immune system and can make the body less successful at fighting disease.”
While many public gathering spots including concert halls and amusement parks have been shut down or subject to restrictions to prevent spread of the coronavirus, crowds continue to flock to casinos.
For tribes that operate casinos, including the Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians, federal law provides sovereignty that limits the ability of the state to dictate how they operate on Indian land, according to legal experts.
“They are not bound to follow any state decree unless Congress orders them to,” said gambling law expert I. Nelson Rose, professor emeritus at Whittier Law School. “Tribes could, of course, voluntarily agree, similar to what Disneyland did.”
Gov. Gavin Newsom acknowledged Thursday that the tribal casinos require special consideration.
“We’ve been meeting with our partners in our tribal nations,” Newsom said. “The complexity of their unique circumstances requires additional conversation, a different kind of engagement, and in real time we’re in those conversations and engagement.”
But new guidelines released late Friday urge all gambling venues to limit the number of customers in single rooms or equivalent space to 250 or fewer, and increase the frequency of cleaning chips, shuffling machines and playing cards.
The guidance also asks gambling halls to make sure social distancing standards are met for non-family members and eliminate marketing that targets vulnerable populations and people at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19.
State officials acknowledge the sovereignty issues but hope tribal casinos will follow their guidance.
So far, most tribes are keeping their casinos operating, while taking other actions to address public concerns, including stepped-up disinfecting of gambling equipment.
The new state guidelines are being followed at the Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, which is operated by the United Indian Community, said spokesman Douglas Elmets.
The casino is consulting with the National Indian Gaming Commission on best practices to keep patrons safe, and is working with government agencies to pursue “concrete steps to confront this threat in a responsible but rational manner as we learn more about the virus,” Elmets said.
Tribal officials withShingle Springs did not respond Saturday to questions about whether they would follow the new state guidance.
California tribes wield significant political influence at the state Capitol, spending millions of dollars annually on campaign contributions and lobbyists. Tribal casino operators contributed more than $250,000 to Newsom’s 2018 campaign for governor, with eight tribes giving the maximum $29,200 each including the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
At the Red Hawk Casino in Shingle Springs, patrons scoffed at the idea that gambling halls should be shuttered, with many saying they are willing to bet that the news on the virus is overblown.
“I don’t panic and I will be back,” one man said as he left the casino. A woman who identified herself as Penny and who made the hourlong trip from Elk Grove, said crowded shopping malls should be shuttered before casinos close their doors.
“I come here three times a week,” she said. “Don’t shut my place down.”


latimes--2020-03-15--L.A. County reports 54 coronavirus cases; state total climbs to 288

California saw a rise Saturday in coronavirus cases , with Los Angeles and several other counties confirming more patients , bringing the statewide total to at least 288 , officials said .
Los Angeles County reported 13 more cases and Long Beach one , bringing the county ’ s total to 54 .
Two of the people among the most recent cases reported are hospitalized , the L.A. County Department of Public Health said in a news release .
Two cases are suspected to be related to travel , and four had close contact with another confirmed case , officials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an unidentified source of exposure , meaning they could be more evidence of community spread , officials said .
In Long Beach , a woman in her 60s who was diagnosed with the virus was hospitalized in stable condition , the city said in a statement .
She did not have contact with another known COVID-19 case and did not travel to an area where the virus is widespread , meaning her diagnosis may be the first instance of community spread in Long Beach , officials said .
“ This case highlights the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ especially for those at higher risk of severe illness and those with underlying health conditions , ” said Dr. Anissa Davis , the city health officer , in a statement .
The outbreak is interrupting the everyday life of residents in Southern California and beyond .
On Saturday , Mammoth Mountain Ski Area in the eastern Sierra and 14 other resorts in North America announced they will close Sunday until further notice , according to the Denver-based operator of the resorts , Alterra Mountain Co .
The company issued a brief statement attributing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the best interests of our guests , employees and local communities.
” Alterra is also closing June Mountain in the eastern Sierra , Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows near Lake Tahoe , and Big Bear Mountain Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains , among other resorts in Vermont , West Virginia , Utah and Washington state .
Vail Resorts , one of the world ’ s largest ski resort operators , also announced it would close its North American slopes , starting Sunday until March 22 , to give management “ time to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the season , ” the company said in an online statement .
The Vail closures will include Northstar , Kirkwood and Heavenly ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area , as well as resorts in Utah , Colorado and British Columbia , Canada .
The ski resorts are among the growing list of businesses , including casinos and that are temporarily closing as officials advise against But it appeared in some places around the country that avoiding a large crowd was virtually impossible .
In a series of tweets Saturday evening , Illinois @ @ @ @ @ @ @ government ’ s response at O ’ Hare Airport in Chicago , where posts on social media showed thousands of international passengers arriving from overseas shoulder to shoulder , stuck in hours-long lines to collect their baggage and be screened for entry .
“ The federal government needs to get its s @ # t together .
NOW , ” the governor tweeted .
But where possible , public officials are trying to ensure large groups are avoided .
The California Coastal Commission is considering holding its April meeting online .
On Saturday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who also serves on the Chula Vista City Council , announced he had tested positive for the coronavirus and was being isolated at home .
He said he is healthy , strong and safe , but noted his symptoms , fever , body aches , headaches and chills , “ came on very rapidly.
” “ My main concern now is for the well-being of others .
My friends and family have been informed and are taking the necessary steps — but it ’ s my duty to be transparent for the entire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video to his constituents .
Meanwhile , the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks announced that it would close all recreation and senior centers and cancel all activities there through at least April 4 .
All events that involve 50 people or more scheduled at Recreation and Parks locations are canceled , and new reservations for facilities or permits are suspended , the department said .
The Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control department said its animal control officers would continue to respond to public safety and animal welfare calls , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reports and animal cruelty investigations , but that the department is deferring less urgent calls until further notice .
Pet owners who want to surrender their pets are asked to delay doing so , those who have found lost pets are asked to foster them temporarily instead of bringing them in , and those who seek to surrender healthy stray cats are asked to release them where they were trapped and bring them in after there is no longer a public health recommendation for social distancing , the department said .
Animal care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ licenses , and pet owners will be given a 30-day grace period for late license submissions .
And all of the county ’ s 86 library locations will be closed from Saturday through the end of the month .
“ After careful consideration , and discussions with local health authorities , we have decided to close our libraries in an abundance of caution and to help prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19.
” said Library Director Skye Patrick in a statement Saturday .
“ We understand the impact this can potentially cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the situation closely to provide updates.
” Several library lobbies will remain open , and the public can still call the system with reference inquiries , officials said .
More information can be found at the library system ’ s main website .
Courts across California , including in Los Angeles , are beginning to grind to a halt as well .
Santa Clara County , where the coronavirus outbreak has hit particularly hard , Friday in many traffic , family , civil and probate trials , as well as some criminal trials @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at L.A. tourist attractions on Saturday .
Few are as popular with visitors from throughout the world as the TCL Chinese Theatre forecourt , where nearly 200 celebrities have immortalized their handprints in concrete .
Many visitors get a thrill from pressing their own hands into the exact places their screen idols cast theirs .
The coronavirus pandemic has dampened enthusiasm for that kind of interactive experience .
Looking down at the slab imprinted with the prints of Marilyn Monroe , Giulia Ragusa , 27 , of San Francisco , hesitated , then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and plunged her hands into the hallowed depressions .
“ I ’ m not afraid !
I ’ m young and strong !
” she said , as her friend Carolina Benetti , 19 , snapped photos .
Mission accomplished , Ragusa sprang to her feet and said , “ Hey , Carolina , get the hand sanitizer out of my backpack , please.
” On any other Saturday , hundreds of visitors would crowd the theater courtyard , pivoting on their heels as they snapped selfies or aimed video cameras in all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throngs of visitors .
Costumed movie figures would be parading up and down the boulevard in search of tips in exchange for photos .
But Hollywood souvenir salesman Nick Brooks , 34 , was having to face up to grim views he did not think were possible .
Standing forlornly on the Hollywood Walk of Fame , holding an umbrella in one hand and a large sign that read “ Everything ’ s $ 5 ” in the other , he said , “ I ’ ve worked this corner seven years and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slow .
Business is down nearly 100 % .
” “ On a normal Saturday , without rain or coronavirus , I shout the sales pitch ‘ Everything ’ s $ 5 !
’ ” 200 times a day in perfect Chinese , ” he said , shaking his head .
“ Now , I say it four times a week because the place is almost empty .
“ Usually , this sidewalk is a river of people , 30 persons deep , ” he added .
“ But right now , for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ got a clear view all the way down to Highland Avenue , a quarter-mile away.
” Elsewhere , San Francisco reported 28 cases Saturday , up from 23 the day before ; in San Mateo County , the number increased from 20 to 26 .
Contra Costa County reported four new cases , bringing its total to 29 , and in Sacramento County , the number of cases rose from 17 to 29 .
Santa Clara County announced 17 additional cases , bringing the total there to 91 .
Marin County announced two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to five .
Neither had exposure to another known case , and both are believed to be the result of community spread , officials said .
“ The first cases of community transmission of COVID-19 in Marin means we ’ re in a new stage of working to mitigate spread , ” said Dr. Matt Willis , the county public health officer , in a statement .
“ We ’ ve been anticipating this .
With supermarkets overrun , workplaces clearing out and coronavirus spreading deeper into communities , California officials desperately attempted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a unified message : social distancing .
“ COVID-19 LESS IS MORE , ” electronic signs over the 405 and 105 freeways in Los Angeles read Saturday morning .
“ AVOID GATHERINGS.
” Similar messages were displayed on all 700 of the state ’ s digital highway signs , Caltrans said .
Of California ’ s 288 confirmed cases , 70 are believed to be from community transmission and the cause of 66 of them are under investigation , the state health department said .
The rest are a mix of confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ patients returning to the country after contracting the disease elsewhere .
Calling the outbreak “ one of the most historic public health challenges of our time , ” Santa Clara County health officer Dr. Sara Cody issued an aggressive new ban , restricting public gatherings of 35 or more unless organizers warn attendees that it poses a heightened risk of infection , and banning all public and private gatherings of 100 or more .
On Saturday , Contra Costa County announced similar restrictions , with the county ’ s health officer issuing an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more in a single room or enclosed space .
Those who violate the order , which is in effect from midnight Sunday through March 31 , could be charged with a misdemeanor and face a fine or imprisonment in county jail , officials said .
Other counties canceled events and introduced new restrictions .
In Riverside County , officials announced that a former patient at the Coachella Valley nursing home has the coronavirus , prompting them to test workers and patients at the facility .
The county public health department said the patient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rehabilitation Center before being transferred to a hospital .
Riverside County declared a state of emergency last week .
As of Saturday , it had 14 confirmed cases , four of which are believed to be related to travel , and 10 to have been acquired locally .
Amid the steady increase in cases in Santa Clara County , Stanford University announced a wave of changes to campus operations after an undergraduate student there tested positive for the virus .
The student is self-isolating , and university teams are working to reach out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , university President Marc Tessier-Lavigne announced in a letter to students Friday night .
As a result , during spring break and the spring quarter , the school “ will only be able to provide on-campus undergraduate housing and dining for a very limited number of students — those who have no other option than to be here , ” the letter said .
They will prioritize international and homeless students , and those who “ have known severe health or safety risks.
” A graduate student at Stanford ’ s rival , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , school officials announced .
The individual does not live on campus or in the city of Berkeley and has self-isolated at home , the university said .
Major school districts throughout California , including Los Angeles Unified , announced shutdowns Friday , joining at least 12 states that have ordered complete closures amid escalating attempts to slow the spread of the coronavirus .
The closure initially is scheduled to last two weeks , but a firm reopen date will depend on the status of the outbreak , which President Trump on Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Saturday , Trump said he was considering domestic travel restrictions “ specifically from certain areas , ” although he didn ’ t mention any particular spots .
“ If you don ’ t have to travel , I wouldn ’ t do it , ” he said .
“ We want this thing to end.
” In addition , his administration is extending the ban on travel from Europe to the United Kingdom and Ireland .
The restriction goes into effect on Monday at midnight , but U.S. citizens will be allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he took a test for the coronavirus the night before after days of mixed messages over whether he would do so .
“ I took the test last night , ” he said .
“ I decided I should based on the press conference last night.
” The president said Friday night that he would “ most likely ” get tested after interacting with Brazilian officials who tested positive for the virus .
But hours later , his physician released a memo suggesting that he would not take the test because he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump told reporters Saturday that he had his temperature checked before entering the White House briefing room .
“ Totally normal , ” he said as he left the podium .
The White House announced later in the day that the president tested negative .
More cases were announced nationally , including 100 new ones in New York on Saturday .
Dr. Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases , said Saturday that there are 2,226 coronavirus cases in the United States , including repatriations , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 532 new cases and nine new deaths .
“ We have not reached our peak , ” Fauci said .
“ We will see more cases , and we will see more suffering and death.
” However , the country still has an opportunity to influence how fast and far the virus spreads , he said .

Joseph Serna, Alex Wigglesworth, Chris Megerian, Louis Sahagun

The fear of the coronavirus has Southern California residents stocking up. Above, empty shelves at a Target in Manhattan Beach.
California saw a rise Saturday in coronavirus cases, with Los Angeles and several other counties confirming more patients, bringing the statewide total to at least 288, officials said.
Los Angeles County reported 13 more cases and Long Beach one, bringing the county’s total to 54.
Two of the people among the most recent cases reported are hospitalized, the L.A. County Department of Public Health said in a news release. Two cases are suspected to be related to travel, and four had close contact with another confirmed case, officials said. Two of the cases have an unidentified source of exposure, meaning they could be more evidence of community spread, officials said.
In Long Beach, a woman in her 60s who was diagnosed with the virus was hospitalized in stable condition, the city said in a statement. She did not have contact with another known COVID-19 case and did not travel to an area where the virus is widespread, meaning her diagnosis may be the first instance of community spread in Long Beach, officials said.
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“This case highlights the need for continued vigilance and preparation, especially for those at higher risk of severe illness and those with underlying health conditions,” said Dr. Anissa Davis, the city health officer, in a statement.
The outbreak is interrupting the everyday life of residents in Southern California and beyond.
Ski resorts close
On Saturday, Mammoth Mountain Ski Area in the eastern Sierra and 14 other resorts in North America announced they will close Sunday until further notice, according to the Denver-based operator of the resorts, Alterra Mountain Co.
The company issued a brief statement attributing the closures to the outbreak and “the best interests of our guests, employees and local communities.”
Alterra is also closing June Mountain in the eastern Sierra, Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows near Lake Tahoe, and Big Bear Mountain Resort in the San Bernardino Mountains, among other resorts in Vermont, West Virginia, Utah and Washington state.
Vail Resorts, one of the world’s largest ski resort operators, also announced it would close its North American slopes, starting Sunday until March 22, to give management “time to reassess our approach for the rest of the season,” the company said in an online statement.
The Vail closures will include Northstar, Kirkwood and Heavenly ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area, as well as resorts in Utah, Colorado and British Columbia, Canada.
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The ski resorts are among the growing list of businesses, including casinos and theme parks, that are temporarily closing as officials advise against large gatherings.
But it appeared in some places around the country that avoiding a large crowd was virtually impossible.
O’Hare Airport
In a series of tweets Saturday evening, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker chastised the federal government’s response at O’Hare Airport in Chicago, where posts on social media showed thousands of international passengers arriving from overseas shoulder to shoulder, stuck in hours-long lines to collect their baggage and be screened for entry.
“The federal government needs to get its s@#t together. NOW,” the governor tweeted.
But where possible, public officials are trying to ensure large groups are avoided.
Coastal Commission chairman tests positive
The California Coastal Commission is considering holding its April meeting online. On Saturday, its chairman, Steve Padilla, who also serves on the Chula Vista City Council, announced he had tested positive for the coronavirus and was being isolated at home.
He said he is healthy, strong and safe, but noted his symptoms, fever, body aches, headaches and chills, “came on very rapidly.”
“My main concern now is for the well-being of others. My friends and family have been informed and are taking the necessary steps — but it’s my duty to be transparent for the entire community,” he said in a video to his constituents.
L.A. parks, animal control, libraries and courts
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks announced that it would close all recreation and senior centers and cancel all activities there through at least April 4. All events that involve 50 people or more scheduled at Recreation and Parks locations are canceled, and new reservations for facilities or permits are suspended, the department said.
The Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control department said its animal control officers would continue to respond to public safety and animal welfare calls, such as dangerous dogs, dead animal reports and animal cruelty investigations, but that the department is deferring less urgent calls until further notice.
Pet owners who want to surrender their pets are asked to delay doing so, those who have found lost pets are asked to foster them temporarily instead of bringing them in, and those who seek to surrender healthy stray cats are asked to release them where they were trapped and bring them in after there is no longer a public health recommendation for social distancing, the department said.
Animal care centers are suspending the sale of pet licenses, and pet owners will be given a 30-day grace period for late license submissions.
And all of the county’s 86 library locations will be closed from Saturday through the end of the month.
“After careful consideration, and discussions with local health authorities, we have decided to close our libraries in an abundance of caution and to help prevent and limit the spread of COVID-19.” said Library Director Skye Patrick in a statement Saturday. “We understand the impact this can potentially cause on customers and will continue to monitor the situation closely to provide updates.”
Several library lobbies will remain open, and the public can still call the system with reference inquiries, officials said. More information can be found at the library system’s main website.
Courts across California, including in Los Angeles, are beginning to grind to a halt as well. Santa Clara County, where the coronavirus outbreak has hit particularly hard, announced delays Friday in many traffic, family, civil and probate trials, as well as some criminal trials.
The scene in Hollywood
Fears over the virus were evident at L.A. tourist attractions on Saturday. Few are as popular with visitors from throughout the world as the TCL Chinese Theatre forecourt, where nearly 200 celebrities have immortalized their handprints in concrete.
Many visitors get a thrill from pressing their own hands into the exact places their screen idols cast theirs. The coronavirus pandemic has dampened enthusiasm for that kind of interactive experience.
Looking down at the slab imprinted with the prints of Marilyn Monroe, Giulia Ragusa, 27, of San Francisco, hesitated, then got down on her knees, smiled and plunged her hands into the hallowed depressions.
“I’m not afraid! I’m young and strong!” she said, as her friend Carolina Benetti, 19, snapped photos.
Mission accomplished, Ragusa sprang to her feet and said, “Hey, Carolina, get the hand sanitizer out of my backpack, please.”
On any other Saturday, hundreds of visitors would crowd the theater courtyard, pivoting on their heels as they snapped selfies or aimed video cameras in all directions. Tour buses would be disgorging throngs of visitors.
California Even small neighborhood stores are getting raided by coronavirus hoarders It’s not just supermarkets and big box retailers that are struggling to keep toilet paper and groceries on the shelves. Liquor stores and other neighborhood businesses are too.
Costumed movie figures would be parading up and down the boulevard in search of tips in exchange for photos.
But Hollywood souvenir salesman Nick Brooks, 34, was having to face up to grim views he did not think were possible.
Standing forlornly on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, holding an umbrella in one hand and a large sign that read “Everything’s $5” in the other, he said, “I’ve worked this corner seven years and I’ve never seen it this slow. Business is down nearly 100%.”
“On a normal Saturday, without rain or coronavirus, I shout the sales pitch ‘Everything’s $5!’” 200 times a day in perfect Chinese,” he said, shaking his head. “Now, I say it four times a week because the place is almost empty.
“Usually, this sidewalk is a river of people, 30 persons deep,” he added. “But right now, for the first time, I’ve got a clear view all the way down to Highland Avenue, a quarter-mile away.”
Across California
Elsewhere, San Francisco reported 28 cases Saturday, up from 23 the day before; in San Mateo County, the number increased from 20 to 26. Contra Costa County reported four new cases, bringing its total to 29, and in Sacramento County, the number of cases rose from 17 to 29. Santa Clara County announced 17 additional cases, bringing the total there to 91.
Marin County announced two new cases Saturday, bringing its total to five. Neither had exposure to another known case, and both are believed to be the result of community spread, officials said.
“The first cases of community transmission of COVID-19 in Marin means we’re in a new stage of working to mitigate spread,” said Dr. Matt Willis, the county public health officer, in a statement. “We’ve been anticipating this.
With supermarkets overrun, workplaces clearing out and coronavirus spreading deeper into communities, California officials desperately attempted to slow the virus with new restrictions and a unified message: social distancing.
“COVID-19 LESS IS MORE,” electronic signs over the 405 and 105 freeways in Los Angeles read Saturday morning. “AVOID GATHERINGS.” Similar messages were displayed on all 700 of the state’s digital highway signs, Caltrans said.
Of California’s 288 confirmed cases, 70 are believed to be from community transmission and the cause of 66 of them are under investigation, the state health department said. The rest are a mix of confirmed person-to-person transmissions, related to travel or patients returning to the country after contracting the disease elsewhere.
Calling the outbreak “one of the most historic public health challenges of our time,” Santa Clara County health officer Dr. Sara Cody issued an aggressive new ban, restricting public gatherings of 35 or more unless organizers warn attendees that it poses a heightened risk of infection, and banning all public and private gatherings of 100 or more.
On Saturday, Contra Costa County announced similar restrictions, with the county’s health officer issuing an order prohibiting gatherings of 100 people or more in a single room or enclosed space. Those who violate the order, which is in effect from midnight Sunday through March 31, could be charged with a misdemeanor and face a fine or imprisonment in county jail, officials said. Other counties canceled events and introduced new restrictions.
In Riverside County, officials announced that a former patient at the Coachella Valley nursing home has the coronavirus, prompting them to test workers and patients at the facility.
The county public health department said the patient spent time at Rancho Mirage Health and Rehabilitation Center before being transferred to a hospital.
Riverside County declared a state of emergency last week. As of Saturday, it had 14 confirmed cases, four of which are believed to be related to travel, and 10 to have been acquired locally.
Schools and universities react
Amid the steady increase in cases in Santa Clara County, Stanford University announced a wave of changes to campus operations after an undergraduate student there tested positive for the virus.
The student is self-isolating, and university teams are working to reach out to the person’s close contacts, university President Marc Tessier-Lavigne announced in a letter to students Friday night.
As a result, during spring break and the spring quarter, the school “will only be able to provide on-campus undergraduate housing and dining for a very limited number of students — those who have no other option than to be here,” the letter said. They will prioritize international and homeless students, and those who “have known severe health or safety risks.”
A graduate student at Stanford’s rival, UC Berkeley, has also contracted COVID-19, school officials announced. The individual does not live on campus or in the city of Berkeley and has self-isolated at home, the university said.
Major school districts throughout California, including Los Angeles Unified, announced shutdowns Friday, joining at least 12 states that have ordered complete closures amid escalating attempts to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
The closure initially is scheduled to last two weeks, but a firm reopen date will depend on the status of the outbreak, which President Trump on Friday declared a national emergency
President Trump and travel restrictions
Speaking at a White House news conference on Saturday, Trump said he was considering domestic travel restrictions “specifically from certain areas,” although he didn’t mention any particular spots.
“If you don’t have to travel, I wouldn’t do it,” he said. “We want this thing to end.”
In addition, his administration is extending the ban on travel from Europe to the United Kingdom and Ireland. The restriction goes into effect on Monday at midnight, but U.S. citizens will be allowed to return home.
Trump also said that he took a test for the coronavirus the night before after days of mixed messages over whether he would do so.
“I took the test last night,” he said. “I decided I should based on the press conference last night.”
The president said Friday night that he would “most likely” get tested after interacting with Brazilian officials who tested positive for the virus. But hours later, his physician released a memo suggesting that he would not take the test because he’s at “LOW risk.”
Trump told reporters Saturday that he had his temperature checked before entering the White House briefing room. “Totally normal,” he said as he left the podium. The White House announced later in the day that the president tested negative.
More cases nationwide
More cases were announced nationally, including 100 new ones in New York on Saturday.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said Saturday that there are 2,226 coronavirus cases in the United States, including repatriations, and 50 deaths. He said there are 532 new cases and nine new deaths.
“We have not reached our peak,” Fauci said. “We will see more cases, and we will see more suffering and death.”
However, the country still has an opportunity to influence how fast and far the virus spreads, he said.