latimes--2020-06-19--Everything you need to know about California's mandatory mask rules

Mask wearing in many public places is now the law of the land in California , thanks to action by Gov .
Gavin Newsom this week .
All Californians must wear face coverings in public or high-risk settings , including while shopping , taking public transit or seeking medical care to help curb the spread of the coronavirus .
Here is what we know .
Newsom said he became concerned because many people were not wearing masks in public places .
County rules varied , and some local officials refused to require face coverings .
“ Simply put , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ uncovered — putting at risk the real progress we have made in fighting the disease , ” Newsom said in a statement .
“ California ’ s strategy to restart the economy and get people back to work will only be successful if people act safely and follow health recommendations .
That means wearing a face covering , washing your hands and practicing physical distancing.
” Last week , the Orange County public health officer resigned after weeks of verbal attacks , including a death threat , over her mandatory mask rules .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ pressure from the Board of Supervisors , and now the county only “ strongly recommends ” wearing masks in public settings .
Newsom ’ s action means that there a uniform policy across the state .
How will it be enforced ?
For the most part , authorities have said they plan to ask for voluntary compliance .
At beaches , police and lifeguards have encouraged people to practice social distancing and wear masks but have generally not written citations .
Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes has indicated that it ’ s not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ compliance with the state ’ s mask order .
Instead , “ it is each person ’ s responsibility to wear a face covering , and follow other recommended safeguards , in order to stop the spread of COVID-19 , ” he said .
“ I expect that Orange County residents will continue to use common sense approaches for the benefit of their own health , as well as the collective health of other county residents , ” he said in a statement .
“ We must do what is necessary to stop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to further open remaining businesses , places of recreation , and the hospitality industry.
” Officials in Riverside County , which previously rescinded a face-covering requirement , urged residents to follow the state ’ s new rules .
“ Social distancing , washing our hands and wearing facial coverings are all simple measures that we can all abide by to protect ourselves and our fellow neighbors , ” Riverside County Board of Supervisors Chairman V. Manuel Perez said in a statement .
“ I am happy that our governor has made this decision.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Some people simply don ’ t believe the government should force them to wear masks .
Mask use is far from uncommon , but the anti-mask political movement is undeniable .
In addition to the drama last week in Orange County , other counties have buckled to public pressure .
Fresno County had a face mask for less than a day before it was pulled back .
and counties revoked their orders after blowback .
In Stockton , Mayor Michael Tubbs proposed face covering rules but to get any support from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s other most populous counties , including Los Angeles , San Diego , Santa Clara , Alameda , Sacramento , Contra Costa , San Francisco and San Mateo , require mask wearing in public .
Why is mask wearing so important ?
Many health officials say that face coverings are an integral tool in the fight against COVID-19 because they can block transmission of the respiratory droplets released by infected people , even those who are asymptomatic , when breathing or talking .
Research by the journal Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ significantly ” reduced the amount of potentially infectious droplets expelled by the wearer .
“ It ’ s the only way we get back to work — it ’ s to mask , ” said Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo , chair of UC San Francisco ’ s Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics .
“ All of the data tells us ... it ’ s pretty clear that masking is the element that changes the trajectories of the COVID pandemic.
” There ’ s increasing evidence that face coverings are essential to allowing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus transmission under control , such as Hong Kong and Taiwan , have virtually universal wearing of masks in public .
A recent out of Germany found that masks reduced the daily growth rate of reported infections by around 40 % .
Another study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences concluded that “ corresponds to the most effective means to prevent interhuman transmission.
” In one Missouri salon , two hairstylists became sick but no were infected , and scientists believe it was because they were wearing face masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ socially routine , including Japan , have not seen an out-of-control national epidemic .
California Public Health Officer Dr. Sonia Angell said wearing face coverings is an effective way to decrease the spread of the coronavirus .
“ As Californians venture into our communities more , wearing face coverings is another important way we can help protect one another , ” she said .
Dr. Shruti Gohil , associate medical director of epidemiology and infection prevention at UC Irvine , said face coverings , in addition to frequent hand washing , are helpful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ communities reopen and physical distancing becomes less possible .
“ In my opinion , if we want to reengage we have to put all of our energy into figuring out how to shave off every piece of risk that we can , reasonably , without crippling our society , ” she said .
“ I do think it ’ s hard for the public to digest what the right steps are , and I think in a time of pandemic it is nice to have authorities steer the ship as stably as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ governor ’ s move allows for that at some level.
” Dr. Peter N. Bretan , president of the California Medical Assn.
, said Newsom ’ s order was a reminder that the “ COVID-19 crisis is not over.
” When must you wear a mask ?
• Inside , or in line to enter , any indoor public space .
• Obtaining health-related services including , but not limited to , a hospital , pharmacy , medical clinic , laboratory , physician ’ s or dental office , veterinary clinic or blood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on public transportation or paratransit or while in a taxi , private car service , or ride-sharing vehicle .
• Engaged in work , whether at the workplace or performing work off site , when interacting in-person with any member of the public .
• Working in any space visited by members of the public , regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time .
• Working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others .
• Working in or walking through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stairways , elevators and parking facilities .
• In any room or enclosed area where other people ( except for members of the person ’ s own household or residence ) are present when unable to physically distance .
• Driving or operating any public transportation or paratransit vehicle , taxi , or private car service or ride-hailing vehicle when passengers are present .
When no passengers are present , face coverings are strongly recommended .
• Outdoors in public spaces when maintaining a physical distance of six feet from persons who are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ residence is not feasible .
• Children 2 years old or younger , who should not wear a face covering because of the risk of suffocation .
• Persons with a medical condition , mental health condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering .
This includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a face covering could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious , incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance .
• Persons who are hearing impaired , or communicating with a person who is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see the mouth is essential for communication .
• Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk related to their work , as determined by local , state or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines .
• Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service .
• Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service , while they are eating or drinking , provided that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of at least six feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence .
• Persons who are engaged in outdoor work or recreation such as swimming , walking , hiking , bicycling or running , when alone or with household members , and when they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others .
• Persons who are incarcerated .
Prisons and jails , as part of their mitigation plans , will have specific guidance on the wearing of face coverings or masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are some mask basics ?
The California Department of Public Health previously issued for cloth masks : • Face coverings can be made out of cloth , factory-made or hand-sewn , or improvised using bandannas , scarves , T-shirts , sweatshirts or towels .
• The material should cover both the nose and mouth .
• Ideally , face coverings should be washed after each use , or at least daily .
• Dirty masks should be placed in a dedicated laundry bag or bin and laundered with detergent and hot water and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Be sure your mask is comfortable ; you don ’ t want to have to keep adjusting the mask , because that means touching your face .
• Wash your hands , or use hand sanitizer , before and after touching your face or face coverings .
• If you must wear your cloth face covering again before washing it , wash your hands immediately after putting it back on and avoid touching your face .
• Discard cloth face coverings that no longer cover the nose and mouth , have stretched-out or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stay on the face , or have holes or tears in the fabric .

Phil Willon, Luke Money, Hannah Fry, Rong-Gong Lin II, Priscella Vega

A jogger wears a protective mask while passing LA Live in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday. Gov. Gavin Newsom has ordered all Californians to wear face coverings while in public or high-risk settings.
Mask wearing in many public places is now the law of the land in California, thanks to action by Gov. Gavin Newsom this week.
All Californians must wear face coverings in public or high-risk settings, including while shopping, taking public transit or seeking medical care to help curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Here is what we know.
Why now?
Newsom said he became concerned because many people were not wearing masks in public places. County rules varied, and some local officials refused to require face coverings.
“Simply put, we are seeing too many people with faces uncovered — putting at risk the real progress we have made in fighting the disease,” Newsom said in a statement. “California’s strategy to restart the economy and get people back to work will only be successful if people act safely and follow health recommendations. That means wearing a face covering, washing your hands and practicing physical distancing.”
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Last week, the Orange County public health officer resigned after weeks of verbal attacks, including a death threat, over her mandatory mask rules. Her replacement rescinded the rules amid intense pressure from the Board of Supervisors, and now the county only “strongly recommends” wearing masks in public settings.
Newsom’s action means that there a uniform policy across the state.
How will it be enforced?
For the most part, authorities have said they plan to ask for voluntary compliance. At beaches, police and lifeguards have encouraged people to practice social distancing and wear masks but have generally not written citations.
Orange County Sheriff Don Barnes has indicated that it’s not law enforcement’s job to ensure compliance with the state’s mask order. Instead, “it is each person’s responsibility to wear a face covering, and follow other recommended safeguards, in order to stop the spread of COVID-19,” he said.
“I expect that Orange County residents will continue to use common sense approaches for the benefit of their own health, as well as the collective health of other county residents,” he said in a statement. “We must do what is necessary to stop the transmission of COVID-19, enabling us to further open remaining businesses, places of recreation, and the hospitality industry.”
Officials in Riverside County, which previously rescinded a face-covering requirement, urged residents to follow the state’s new rules.
Advertisement
“Social distancing, washing our hands and wearing facial coverings are all simple measures that we can all abide by to protect ourselves and our fellow neighbors,” Riverside County Board of Supervisors Chairman V. Manuel Perez said in a statement. “I am happy that our governor has made this decision.”
Why has this been so controversial?
Some people simply don’t believe the government should force them to wear masks.
Mask use is far from uncommon, but the anti-mask political movement is undeniable.
In addition to the drama last week in Orange County, other counties have buckled to public pressure. Fresno County had a face mask rule for less than a day before it was pulled back. Riverside and San Bernardino counties revoked their orders after blowback. In Stockton, Mayor Michael Tubbs proposed face covering rules but failed to get any support from the City Council.
Many of California’s other most populous counties, including Los Angeles, San Diego, Santa Clara, Alameda, Sacramento, Contra Costa, San Francisco and San Mateo, require mask wearing in public.
Why is mask wearing so important?
Many health officials say that face coverings are an integral tool in the fight against COVID-19 because they can block transmission of the respiratory droplets released by infected people, even those who are asymptomatic, when breathing or talking.
Research published by the journal Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness in 2013 found that homemade cloth masks “significantly” reduced the amount of potentially infectious droplets expelled by the wearer.
“It’s the only way we get back to work — it’s to mask,” said Dr. Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, chair of UC San Francisco’s Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics. “All of the data tells us ... it’s pretty clear that masking is the element that changes the trajectories of the COVID pandemic.”
There’s increasing evidence that face coverings are essential to allowing a broader reopening. Places that have kept coronavirus transmission under control, such as Hong Kong and Taiwan, have virtually universal wearing of masks in public.
A recent study out of Germany found that masks reduced the daily growth rate of reported infections by around 40%. Another study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences concluded that “ wearing of face masks in public corresponds to the most effective means to prevent interhuman transmission.”
In one Missouri salon, two hairstylists became sick but no customers were infected, and scientists believe it was because they were wearing face masks. And many countries where masking is socially routine, including Japan, have not seen an out-of-control national epidemic.
California Public Health Officer Dr. Sonia Angell said wearing face coverings is an effective way to decrease the spread of the coronavirus.
“As Californians venture into our communities more, wearing face coverings is another important way we can help protect one another,” she said.
Dr. Shruti Gohil, associate medical director of epidemiology and infection prevention at UC Irvine, said face coverings, in addition to frequent hand washing, are helpful in reducing the spread of infection as communities reopen and physical distancing becomes less possible.
“In my opinion, if we want to reengage we have to put all of our energy into figuring out how to shave off every piece of risk that we can, reasonably, without crippling our society,” she said. “I do think it’s hard for the public to digest what the right steps are, and I think in a time of pandemic it is nice to have authorities steer the ship as stably as possible. I do think that perhaps the governor’s move allows for that at some level.”
Dr. Peter N. Bretan, president of the California Medical Assn., said Newsom’s order was a reminder that the “COVID-19 crisis is not over.”
When must you wear a mask?
• Inside, or in line to enter, any indoor public space.
• Obtaining health-related services including, but not limited to, a hospital, pharmacy, medical clinic, laboratory, physician’s or dental office, veterinary clinic or blood bank.
• Waiting for or riding on public transportation or paratransit or while in a taxi, private car service, or ride-sharing vehicle.
• Engaged in work, whether at the workplace or performing work off site, when interacting in-person with any member of the public.
• Working in any space visited by members of the public, regardless of whether anyone from the public is present at the time.
• Working in any space where food is prepared or packaged for sale or distribution to others.
• Working in or walking through common areas, such as hallways, stairways, elevators and parking facilities.
• In any room or enclosed area where other people (except for members of the person’s own household or residence) are present when unable to physically distance.
• Driving or operating any public transportation or paratransit vehicle, taxi, or private car service or ride-hailing vehicle when passengers are present. When no passengers are present, face coverings are strongly recommended.
• Outdoors in public spaces when maintaining a physical distance of six feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence is not feasible.
Who is exempt?
• Children 2 years old or younger, who should not wear a face covering because of the risk of suffocation.
• Persons with a medical condition, mental health condition or disability that prevents wearing a face covering. This includes persons with a medical condition for whom wearing a face covering could obstruct breathing or who are unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove a face covering without assistance.
• Persons who are hearing impaired, or communicating with a person who is hearing impaired, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication.
• Persons for whom wearing a face covering would create a risk related to their work, as determined by local, state or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines.
• Persons who are obtaining a service involving the nose or face for which temporary removal of the face covering is necessary to perform the service.
• Persons who are seated at a restaurant or other establishment that offers food or beverage service, while they are eating or drinking, provided that they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet from persons who are not members of the same household or residence.
• Persons who are engaged in outdoor work or recreation such as swimming, walking, hiking, bicycling or running, when alone or with household members, and when they are able to maintain a distance of at least six feet from others.
• Persons who are incarcerated. Prisons and jails, as part of their mitigation plans, will have specific guidance on the wearing of face coverings or masks for both inmates and staff.
What are some mask basics?
The California Department of Public Health previously issued these guidelines for cloth masks:


latimes--2020-06-19--Coronavirus took her husband-to-be. Now, she's a single mom again

When Maria Reyna Flores allowed herself to daydream , she would envision a life where she found someone to love and respect her , someone who would take her 8-year-old son , Erick , and claim him as his own .
The reality was far different .
She was a single mother , working long hours in the kitchen at the Elephant Bar in Stockton , battling depression and the nagging concern that she wasn ’ t spending enough time with her son as she struggled to make ends meet .
But one day that changed .
His name was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man who worked at the same restaurant with Flores .
Martinez would take her out on dates and would always invite Erick along .
The two would eventually have three daughters and continue taking the kids on trips to their favorite restaurants .
“ If he wanted to give me a kiss , and my kids were there , he would still give it to me , ” Flores said .
“ I felt proud to have a husband who loved me so much.
” More than a decade after meeting , things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Erick was starting to pack his things to get his own apartment , Martinez had proposed to Flores and the family was starting to plan a big wedding celebration for later this year .
“ That was true love , ” Erick said , noting his mother always referred to Martinez as her husband .
“ They never really needed the title of marriage ; they didn ’ t need that to prove their love.
” Then came the pandemic .
As with thousands of other Californians , Martinez contracted coronavirus and died @ @ @ @ @ @ @ swiftly the family still struggles to digest how it will redirect their lives .
For Erick , it means returning home to Stockton to be with his mother and three sisters .
For Flores , it means going back to work .
Everything else has been put on hold .
“ His role will never be taken by anyone else .
Not even me .
I ’ ll always be the big brother , ” Erick said .
“ Me and my mom will just have to join forces and see what we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an associate degree in retail management and merchandising .
Despite the upheaval , he intends to return to college eventually and earn a bachelor ’ s degree in business — as Martinez always wanted .
“ He was always in my business about college , but I understand now , ” Erick said , adding that he could see the pride in his dad ’ s face at his scholarship events and graduation .
“ He cared for me.
” For now , that goal is on pause as he takes on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with more responsibilities ; he ’ ll now help provide for his sisters , Ericka , 10 , Alondra , 5 , and Brianna , 3 .
“ It was a nightmare for me growing up , ” Erick said .
“ There were stepdads that were abusive .
It was just tough .
Just up and down .
I would always move a lot , going to different schools , so it was tough.
” Erick ’ s mother too has begun to grapple with the tough decisions she will now have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to feed her family with the more than $ 10,000 Erick helped raise on GoFundMe , but she knows those donations will soon run out , especially if Medi-Cal doesn ’ t cover Martinez ’ s hospital stay .
“ I was a single mother once , and now I am one again , ” she said , the sound of her daughters playing filling the house .
“ There will come a moment when I ’ ll need to start working ; if not my kids won ’ t have anything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ things for Flores since Martinez ’ s death is not sharing with her youngest daughters that papi will no longer be coming back .
“ Every time the door opens or a car parks , the youngest says , ‘ Mi papi is home , ’ ” Flores said .
“ And I ’ m still waiting for him to come home too , because I still can ’ t believe that he ’ s gone.
” Martinez started feeling sick May 31 after coming home from a 10-hour shift .
He first @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t completely uncommon given the nature of his job as a forklift driver at a produce warehouse .
But things got worse that night when he started hyperventilating and running a fever .
By the next day , he was intubated .
The day after that , he was put on life support .
“ They pretty much told me he was not going to get better , ” Erick said .
“ That ’ s when reality hit.
” After a heart attack , Martinez died June 7 at Dameron Hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he left his family with a dream .
“ His biggest dream was to open a little restaurant and give us a better future , ” Flores said .
“ He ’ d tell me ‘ One day , we ’ re going to do it.
’ Now , I want to follow my husband ’ s dreams .
”

When Maria Reyna Flores allowed herself to daydream, she would envision a life where she found someone to love and respect her, someone who would take her 8-year-old son, Erick, and claim him as his own.
The reality was far different.
She was a single mother, working long hours in the kitchen at the Elephant Bar in Stockton, battling depression and the nagging concern that she wasn’t spending enough time with her son as she struggled to make ends meet.
But one day that changed.
“Y sí,” she said. “Sí lo conocí.”
“And yes,” she said. “I found him.”
His name was Juan Martinez, a hard-working and affectionate man who worked at the same restaurant with Flores. Martinez would take her out on dates and would always invite Erick along. The two would eventually have three daughters and continue taking the kids on trips to their favorite restaurants.
“If he wanted to give me a kiss, and my kids were there, he would still give it to me,” Flores said. “I felt proud to have a husband who loved me so much.”
More than a decade after meeting, things were looking bright for the family: Erick was starting to pack his things to get his own apartment, Martinez had proposed to Flores and the family was starting to plan a big wedding celebration for later this year.
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“That was true love,” Erick said, noting his mother always referred to Martinez as her husband. “They never really needed the title of marriage; they didn’t need that to prove their love.”
Then came the pandemic. As with thousands of other Californians, Martinez contracted coronavirus and died within days, the end coming so swiftly the family still struggles to digest how it will redirect their lives.
Juan Martinez dreamed of starting a restaurant with Maria Reyna Flores. He enjoyed cooking for his family. (Erick Flores)
For Erick, it means returning home to Stockton to be with his mother and three sisters. For Flores, it means going back to work. Everything else has been put on hold.
“His role will never be taken by anyone else. Not even me. I’ll always be the big brother,” Erick said. “Me and my mom will just have to join forces and see what we have to do.”
Erick recently graduated with an associate degree in retail management and merchandising. Despite the upheaval, he intends to return to college eventually and earn a bachelor’s degree in business — as Martinez always wanted.
“He was always in my business about college, but I understand now,” Erick said, adding that he could see the pride in his dad’s face at his scholarship events and graduation. “He cared for me.”
For now, that goal is on pause as he takes on this new role as a big brother with more responsibilities; he’ll now help provide for his sisters, Ericka, 10, Alondra, 5, and Brianna, 3.
“It was a nightmare for me growing up,” Erick said. “There were stepdads that were abusive. It was just tough. Just up and down. I would always move a lot, going to different schools, so it was tough.”
Erick’s mother too has begun to grapple with the tough decisions she will now have to make.
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She’s been able to feed her family with the more than $10,000 Erick helped raise on GoFundMe, but she knows those donations will soon run out, especially if Medi-Cal doesn’t cover Martinez’s hospital stay.
“I was a single mother once, and now I am one again,” she said, the sound of her daughters playing filling the house. “There will come a moment when I’ll need to start working; if not my kids won’t have anything to eat.”
California The pandemic’s toll: Lives lost in California Hundreds of people have died in California due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These are some of their stories.
One of the hardest things for Flores since Martinez’s death is not sharing with her youngest daughters that papi will no longer be coming back.
“Every time the door opens or a car parks, the youngest says, ‘Mi papi is home,’” Flores said. “And I’m still waiting for him to come home too, because I still can’t believe that he’s gone.”
Martinez started feeling sick May 31 after coming home from a 10-hour shift. He first started feeling body aches, which wasn’t completely uncommon given the nature of his job as a forklift driver at a produce warehouse.
But things got worse that night when he started hyperventilating and running a fever. By the next day, he was intubated. The day after that, he was put on life support.
“They pretty much told me he was not going to get better,” Erick said. “That’s when reality hit.”
After a heart attack, Martinez died June 7 at Dameron Hospital in Stockton.
Despite the void, he left his family with a dream.
“His biggest dream was to open a little restaurant and give us a better future,” Flores said. “He’d tell me ‘One day, we’re going to do it.’ Now, I want to follow my husband’s dreams.”


latimes--2020-06-19--Mike Gotovac, legendary Dan Tana's bartender, dies from COVID-19 at 76

Miljenko “ Mike ” Gotovac knew a thing or two about Los Angeles .
As a bartender at West Hollywood ’ s iconic restaurant Dan Tana ’ s for more than 50 years , he was the one constant amid an ever-changing sea of actors , rock stars , barflies and dreamers .
Until his hospitalization March 16 , he remained one of the oldest working bartenders in L.A .
He died from complications of COVID-19 on May 14 at the age of 76 .
“ Mike was a piece of iron in this city , ” said Craig Susser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Gotovac ’ s longtime friend .
“ No matter what happened in your life or what happened in the world , Monday through Friday , he was there.
” Gotovac was born in the village of Lećevica , Croatia , in 1943 .
As a young man , he joined a wave of Croatians who traveled to Germany to escape the poor economy of what then was Yugoslavia .
In 1967 , he landed in L.A. , where he quickly became part of the city ’ s tight-knit Croatian community , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dan Tana ’ s a year later .
“ I learned my work ethic from Mike , ” Susser said .
“ He would say , ‘ Any idiot can pour a vodka on the rocks .
Can you take care of that person ?
Do they want to see you ?
Do they want to come back ?
Are you part of their lives ?
’ ” Gotovac met the woman who would become his wife of 47 years , Milojka , at a friend ’ s wedding in 1973 .
She @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and after a month of exchanging letters , he flew overseas to retrieve his bride — and to pick up the 1969 Mercedes that sat in front of the restaurant most days of the week .
He had three sons , Matija , Domagoj and Milian .
Over the years , Gotovac saw the city churn .
He watched young assistants grow into powerful producers ; he gave the Eagles free drinks after their first show at the Troubadour ; he saw a baby Drew Barrymore get her diapers changed on the bar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , “ more famous people per square inch than anywhere else in town.
” Yet , despite Gotovac ’ s position as its de-facto ringleader , his sons said he couldn ’ t tell a movie star from a customer off the street .
“ He liked old cowboy westerns and he enjoyed sports , so what did he care if you ’ re an actor or actress in the highest grossing movie of the year ?
” said Domagoj .
“ That was one of the reasons a lot of these famous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was really the only time they got treated normal.
” So many customers relied on Gotovac ’ s steadfast presence that toward the end of his career , he showed up as much for them as he did for himself , his sons said .
It wasn ’ t uncommon for him to bring some of the bar ’ s customers home for the holidays because they had nowhere else to go .
“ There were a lot of lonely people in L.A. , and he did have a soft spot , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that old school of bartenders — the kind who anticipate your needs and pour accordingly — he was never a pushover .
In time , he became known as much for his no-nonsense persona as for his martinis .
“ Rich , famous , poor , not famous : you got the same cantankerous , quick-witted , smart , funny Mike , ” Susser said .
When Gotovac wasn ’ t at Dan Tana ’ s , he was the consummate family man .
He was a parishioner at St. Anthony Croatian Catholic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longtime president of San Pedro Croat Soccer Club .
His idea of a good time was dinner and dancing with his wife , or doting on his granddaughters , Emelia , Iva and Beatrix , who became his greatest joy .
In the year leading up to his death , Gotovac also did the grocery shopping and cooking for some of his elderly neighbors .
“ He took care of people like nobody else , ” said Christian Kneedler , manager of Dan Tana ’ s .
“ He really was one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heartbroken at the notion that after five decades of hard work , he will never get the chance to put his feet up and relax .
But they ’ re also careful not to get too sentimental .
After all , Gotovac wouldn ’ t have allowed it .
“ People would do silly things at the bar , ” Susser recalled , “ and Mike would shrug and say , ‘ It ’ s a bar , not a church .
You ’ re supposed to be able to let your hair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wife and sons , Gotovac is survived by a brother , Ivica ; sisters Anka and Dragica ; and numerous grandchildren .

Miljenko “Mike” Gotovac knew a thing or two about Los Angeles. As a bartender at West Hollywood’s iconic restaurant Dan Tana’s for more than 50 years, he was the one constant amid an ever-changing sea of actors, rock stars, barflies and dreamers.
Until his hospitalization March 16, he remained one of the oldest working bartenders in L.A. He died from complications of COVID-19 on May 14 at the age of 76.
“Mike was a piece of iron in this city,” said Craig Susser, owner of Craig’s restaurant and Gotovac’s longtime friend. “No matter what happened in your life or what happened in the world, Monday through Friday, he was there.”
Gotovac was born in the village of Lećevica, Croatia, in 1943. As a young man, he joined a wave of Croatians who traveled to Germany to escape the poor economy of what then was Yugoslavia. In 1967, he landed in L.A., where he quickly became part of the city’s tight-knit Croatian community, and became the bartender and resident curmudgeon at Dan Tana’s a year later.
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“I learned my work ethic from Mike,” Susser said. “He would say, ‘Any idiot can pour a vodka on the rocks. Can you take care of that person? Do they want to see you? Do they want to come back? Are you part of their lives?’”
Gotovac met the woman who would become his wife of 47 years, Milojka, at a friend’s wedding in 1973. She lived in Croatia at the time, and after a month of exchanging letters, he flew overseas to retrieve his bride — and to pick up the 1969 Mercedes that sat in front of the restaurant most days of the week. He had three sons, Matija, Domagoj and Milian.
Over the years, Gotovac saw the city churn. He watched young assistants grow into powerful producers; he gave the Eagles free drinks after their first show at the Troubadour; he saw a baby Drew Barrymore get her diapers changed on the bar. The restaurant hosted, in the words of the late Jonathan Gold , “more famous people per square inch than anywhere else in town.” Yet, despite Gotovac’s position as its de-facto ringleader, his sons said he couldn’t tell a movie star from a customer off the street.
“He liked old cowboy westerns and he enjoyed sports, so what did he care if you’re an actor or actress in the highest grossing movie of the year?” said Domagoj. “That was one of the reasons a lot of these famous people really liked him, because it was really the only time they got treated normal.”
For the fans of Dan Tanas's in West Hollywood, nothing will ever be the same without Mike Gotovac.🌹 pic.twitter.com/SKx0hP6Zhi — Pamela Greyson's LOST LOS ANGELES Est. 2008🧢 (@pamelagreyson) May 16, 2020
So many customers relied on Gotovac’s steadfast presence that toward the end of his career, he showed up as much for them as he did for himself, his sons said. It wasn’t uncommon for him to bring some of the bar’s customers home for the holidays because they had nowhere else to go.
“There were a lot of lonely people in L.A., and he did have a soft spot,” Matija said.
Although Gotovac belonged to that old school of bartenders — the kind who anticipate your needs and pour accordingly — he was never a pushover. In time, he became known as much for his no-nonsense persona as for his martinis.
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“Rich, famous, poor, not famous: you got the same cantankerous, quick-witted, smart, funny Mike,” Susser said.
When Gotovac wasn’t at Dan Tana’s, he was the consummate family man. He was a parishioner at St. Anthony Croatian Catholic Church, an avid soccer player and longtime president of San Pedro Croat Soccer Club. His idea of a good time was dinner and dancing with his wife, or doting on his granddaughters, Emelia, Iva and Beatrix, who became his greatest joy. In the year leading up to his death, Gotovac also did the grocery shopping and cooking for some of his elderly neighbors.
“He took care of people like nobody else,” said Christian Kneedler, manager of Dan Tana’s. “He really was one of a kind.”
Friends and family are heartbroken at the notion that after five decades of hard work, he will never get the chance to put his feet up and relax. But they’re also careful not to get too sentimental. After all, Gotovac wouldn’t have allowed it.
“People would do silly things at the bar,” Susser recalled, “and Mike would shrug and say, ‘It’s a bar, not a church. You’re supposed to be able to let your hair down.’”
In addition to his wife and sons, Gotovac is survived by a brother, Ivica; sisters Anka and Dragica; and numerous grandchildren.


latimes--2020-06-19--L.A. County coronavirus cases mount, but efforts to slow spread appear to be working, officials say

Even as Los Angeles County continues to report high numbers of new coronavirus cases each day , the county remains well-positioned in its fight to slow the virus ’ spread , making it possible for more sectors of the economy to reopen , health officials maintained Friday .
The county reported 1,414 new cases of the virus and 38 related deaths .
Eighteen of the deaths were among residents in skilled nursing facilities , who now account for a total of 1,437 deaths .
But two key indicators — the positivity rate and average number of daily hospitalizations — have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ average daily deaths have declined , officials said .
“ The most important data continues to be looking at our death data and our hospitalization data and our rate of positivity , and ... all of the indicators really point to the fact that we are fairly stable and that we in fact continue to slow the spread of COVID-19 , ” Barbara Ferrer , the county health director , said Friday .
More than 891,000 people had been tested and received their results , with about 8 % testing positive .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which experts say suggests that the county is seeing more cases due to more testing , not necessarily increased community transmission .
There were 1,446 confirmed COVID-19 patients in county hospitals Friday , with 29 % in intensive care and 21 % on ventilators .
The average daily number of hospitalizations has been decreasing since late April , Ferrer said , although she did note there has been a slight increase over the past three days .
That could be because most hospitals are now testing all patients for COVID-19 , even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues , she said .
The seven-day average of daily deaths has also been trending downward since April 12 , Ferrer said .
The average reached its highest in early May , when 45 to 46 people were dying each day .
In early June , the rate had slowed to 20 to 30 deaths a day , she said .
The seven-day average stood at 28 on Friday , according to the Department of Public Health dashboard that tracks reopening metrics .
“ As a reminder , the death and hospitalization numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ results of actions that we took about three to four weeks ago , ” Ferrer said .
“ Many businesses and spaces have reopened in the last month , so we ’ ll be watching all of these indicators carefully to see what impact reopening is having in our community.
” That came two days after both the county and the state recorded their largest single-day totals of new coronavirus infections .
California reported 4,291 new cases Wednesday , with 2,129 of them in L.A. County .
Health officials said the total was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that accounted for roughly 600 of the new L.A. County infections .
Amid the continued rise in case counts , the county announced that a slew of businesses could reopen Friday as the region continues to relax stay-at-home orders put in place in March to slow the virus ’ spread .
The list includes bars , wineries , breweries and tasting rooms , personal care services — including esthetician , skin care , cosmetology , electrology and nail salons , body art and tattoo parlors , microblading and piercing shops and massage studios @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and racetracks without spectators .
In the face of the reopenings , Gov .
Gavin Newsom took the dramatic step Thursday of ordering all Californians to wear face coverings while in public or high-risk settings .
L.A. County has had a similar order in place since mid-May .
On Friday , Ferrer emphasized the importance of following the rule , even if a person doesn ’ t consider themselves to be at high risk for becoming seriously ill. “ It ’ s not about you .
It ’ s about all the other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” she said .
“ We just have to take care of each other .
We ’ re in the middle of a pandemic , nothing like we ’ ve ever experienced , and we have an opportunity to care for each other and we do that by being extraordinarily respectful and putting on those masks.
” She said that face coverings are expected to be required in public places for “ weeks to come.
” Outbreaks in institutional settings continue to be one driver of L.A. County ’ s high case counts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % of the county ’ s total cases — 17,219 — are associated with such settings , which include skilled nursing facilities , assisted and supportive living homes , shelters , treatment centers , food and retail outlets and workplaces .
They include 10,973 cases among institutional residents and 6,246 among staff .
The county has investigated 657 such settings with at least one suspected or confirmed case , and investigations remain ongoing at 522 sites .
Residents living at these institutions also account for 1,618 deaths , officials said Friday , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of COVID-19 deaths reported by the county so far .
In addition to the 1,437 deaths among skilled nursing facility residents , 181 residents of other congregate facilities have died , officials said .
The county has recorded 1,061 confirmed cases at county , state and federal prison facilities , and 548 cases among people experiencing homelessness , officials said .
California now has recorded more than 169,600 coronavirus cases and more than 5,400 deaths .
Statewide , hospitalizations have remained relatively flat for the last six weeks .
But some areas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were an average of 91 people hospitalized per day with confirmed or suspected coronavirus infections in Ventura County , the highest number since early April .
That ’ s a 75 % increase from each of the previous two weeks , a Times analysis found .
Orange County and the San Joaquin Valley have seen 76 % and 45 % increases in intensive care unit hospitalizations , respectively , over the last six weeks .
State officials are monitoring areas experiencing elevated disease transmission or increasing hospitalizations or both in 10 counties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kern , Kings , Riverside , San Joaquin , Santa Barbara , Stanislaus and Tulare .
The state also is monitoring L.A. County for the possibility of elevated transmission .
Riverside and San Bernardino counties this week reported their highest ever one-day increases in coronavirus cases .
On Thursday , Riverside added 516 cases to their total count , and the San Bernardino count jumped by 440 cases .
Both Inland Empire counties beat out records set earlier in the week .
“ Mother ’ s Day , Memorial Day , protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or no one occasion that we can point to ” for the uptick in cases , said Felisa Cardona , a spokeswoman for San Bernardino .
San Bernardino County also reported a new high for COVID-19 hospitalizations , with 229 confirmed and 64 suspected patients in county hospitals , officials said .
About 90 coronavirus patients were being treated in ICU beds .
In Riverside County , 285 people remained hospitalized as of Thursday , a 10.9 % increase from the previous day , officials said .
There were 75 COVID-confirmed patients being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff writers Kristi Sturgill , Luke Money , Phil Willon , Rong-Gong Lin II and Iris Lee contributed to this report .

Even as Los Angeles County continues to report high numbers of new coronavirus cases each day, the county remains well-positioned in its fight to slow the virus’ spread, making it possible for more sectors of the economy to reopen, health officials maintained Friday.
The county reported 1,414 new cases of the virus and 38 related deaths. Eighteen of the deaths were among residents in skilled nursing facilities, who now account for a total of 1,437 deaths.
But two key indicators — the positivity rate and average number of daily hospitalizations — have continued to remain relatively steady, while average daily deaths have declined, officials said.
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“The most important data continues to be looking at our death data and our hospitalization data and our rate of positivity, and ... all of the indicators really point to the fact that we are fairly stable and that we in fact continue to slow the spread of COVID-19,” Barbara Ferrer, the county health director, said Friday.
More than 891,000 people had been tested and received their results, with about 8% testing positive. That percentage has held steady since late May, which experts say suggests that the county is seeing more cases due to more testing, not necessarily increased community transmission.
There were 1,446 confirmed COVID-19 patients in county hospitals Friday, with 29% in intensive care and 21% on ventilators. The average daily number of hospitalizations has been decreasing since late April, Ferrer said, although she did note there has been a slight increase over the past three days. That could be because most hospitals are now testing all patients for COVID-19, even those who are being treated for unrelated issues, she said.
The seven-day average of daily deaths has also been trending downward since April 12, Ferrer said. The average reached its highest in early May, when 45 to 46 people were dying each day. In early June, the rate had slowed to 20 to 30 deaths a day, she said. The seven-day average stood at 28 on Friday, according to the Department of Public Health dashboard that tracks reopening metrics.
“As a reminder, the death and hospitalization numbers we’re showing today represent the results of actions that we took about three to four weeks ago,” Ferrer said. “Many businesses and spaces have reopened in the last month, so we’ll be watching all of these indicators carefully to see what impact reopening is having in our community.”
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That came two days after both the county and the state recorded their largest single-day totals of new coronavirus infections. California reported 4,291 new cases Wednesday, with 2,129 of them in L.A. County. Health officials said the total was fueled by a backlog of test results that accounted for roughly 600 of the new L.A. County infections.
Coronavirus: What you need to know Do I have to wear a mask? Yes.
All Californians must wear face coverings in public or high-risk settings. What is open in California right now? The state is moving into Stage 3 of reopening, with counties allowed to reopen higher-risk businesses and venues such as bars, gyms and movie theaters. Here is the latest information. Is it safe to shop, eat out or see my friends and family? Some experts say it is safer to venture out into the world today than it was when most stay-at-home orders first went into effect, but you should know the risks. Why is California reopening? Two key indicators — the positivity rate and average number of daily hospitalizations — have continued to remain relatively steady, while average daily deaths have declined, officials said.
Amid the continued rise in case counts, the county announced that a slew of businesses could reopen Friday as the region continues to relax stay-at-home orders put in place in March to slow the virus’ spread.
The list includes bars, wineries, breweries and tasting rooms, personal care services — including esthetician, skin care, cosmetology, electrology and nail salons, body art and tattoo parlors, microblading and piercing shops and massage studios — card rooms, satellite wagering facilities and racetracks without spectators.
In the face of the reopenings, Gov. Gavin Newsom took the dramatic step Thursday of ordering all Californians to wear face coverings while in public or high-risk settings.
L.A. County has had a similar order in place since mid-May. On Friday, Ferrer emphasized the importance of following the rule, even if a person doesn’t consider themselves to be at high risk for becoming seriously ill.
“It’s not about you. It’s about all the other people that could be around you,” she said. “We just have to take care of each other. We’re in the middle of a pandemic, nothing like we’ve ever experienced, and we have an opportunity to care for each other and we do that by being extraordinarily respectful and putting on those masks.” She said that face coverings are expected to be required in public places for “weeks to come.”
Outbreaks in institutional settings continue to be one driver of L.A. County’s high case counts, officials said Friday.
About 22% of the county’s total cases — 17,219 — are associated with such settings, which include skilled nursing facilities, assisted and supportive living homes, shelters, treatment centers, food and retail outlets and workplaces. They include 10,973 cases among institutional residents and 6,246 among staff. The county has investigated 657 such settings with at least one suspected or confirmed case, and investigations remain ongoing at 522 sites.
Residents living at these institutions also account for 1,618 deaths, officials said Friday, which is more than half of the total number of COVID-19 deaths reported by the county so far. In addition to the 1,437 deaths among skilled nursing facility residents, 181 residents of other congregate facilities have died, officials said.
The county has recorded 1,061 confirmed cases at county, state and federal prison facilities, and 548 cases among people experiencing homelessness, officials said.
California now has recorded more than 169,600 coronavirus cases and more than 5,400 deaths.
Statewide, hospitalizations have remained relatively flat for the last six weeks.
But some areas have seen increases. Last week, there were an average of 91 people hospitalized per day with confirmed or suspected coronavirus infections in Ventura County, the highest number since early April. That’s a 75% increase from each of the previous two weeks, a Times analysis found.
Orange County and the San Joaquin Valley have seen 76% and 45% increases in intensive care unit hospitalizations, respectively, over the last six weeks.
State officials are monitoring areas experiencing elevated disease transmission or increasing hospitalizations or both in 10 counties: Contra Costa, Fresno, Imperial, Kern, Kings, Riverside, San Joaquin, Santa Barbara, Stanislaus and Tulare. The state also is monitoring L.A. County for the possibility of elevated transmission.
Riverside and San Bernardino counties this week reported their highest ever one-day increases in coronavirus cases. On Thursday, Riverside added 516 cases to their total count, and the San Bernardino count jumped by 440 cases. Both Inland Empire counties beat out records set earlier in the week.
“Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, protests — there’s no one event or no one occasion that we can point to” for the uptick in cases, said Felisa Cardona, a spokeswoman for San Bernardino.
San Bernardino County also reported a new high for COVID-19 hospitalizations, with 229 confirmed and 64 suspected patients in county hospitals, officials said. About 90 coronavirus patients were being treated in ICU beds.
In Riverside County, 285 people remained hospitalized as of Thursday, a 10.9% increase from the previous day, officials said. There were 75 COVID-confirmed patients being treated in intensive care units.
Times staff writers Kristi Sturgill, Luke Money, Phil Willon, Rong-Gong Lin II and Iris Lee contributed to this report.


latimes--2020-06-19--Sheriff's officials monitoring unconfirmed rumors of possible KKK rally in Lancaster

The Los Angeles County Sheriff ’ s Department is aware of rumors on social media that the Ku Klux Klan will stage a rally in Lancaster on Friday , but officials say they have not been able to confirm that any such event is planned .
“ We do not take any ‘ rumors ’ lightly and have been looking into these posts throughout [ the ] day , ” officials with the Lancaster Sheriff ’ s Station wrote in a statement Thursday evening .
“ At this time , we are unable to confirm the validity of a rally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ responsibly.
” Lancaster City Clerk Kathleen Stenback said Thursday she also was unaware of any planned KKK rallies .
“ The city of Lancaster has not received any permit applications , ” she wrote in an email .
The posts in question , which began to spread in earnest Thursday , indicated that the KKK was planning to rally at 7 p.m. Friday in “ Lancaster City Park.
” The source of that information appears to be a screenshot of an uncredited text message .
Both the timing of the rumored rally — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day in 1865 when enslaved people of Texas learned slavery had been abolished — and the recent death of Robert Fuller , a 24-year-old Black man found hanging from a tree near City Hall in neighboring Palmdale , further fueled online speculation .
At least one social media post said the Lancaster Sheriff ’ s Station had confirmed the Klan ’ s purported plans , but law enforcement officials said that was inaccurate .
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Sheriff ’ s Station at ( 661 ) 948-8466 .

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is aware of rumors on social media that the Ku Klux Klan will stage a rally in Lancaster on Friday, but officials say they have not been able to confirm that any such event is planned.
“We do not take any ‘rumors’ lightly and have been looking into these posts throughout [the] day,” officials with the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station wrote in a statement Thursday evening. “At this time, we are unable to confirm the validity of a rally. We encourage our residents to post responsibly.”
Lancaster City Clerk Kathleen Stenback said Thursday she also was unaware of any planned KKK rallies.
“The city of Lancaster has not received any permit applications,” she wrote in an email.
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The posts in question, which began to spread in earnest Thursday, indicated that the KKK was planning to rally at 7 p.m. Friday in “Lancaster City Park.”
The source of that information appears to be a screenshot of an uncredited text message.
Both the timing of the rumored rally — on Juneteenth, a commemoration of the day in 1865 when enslaved people of Texas learned slavery had been abolished — and the recent death of Robert Fuller, a 24-year-old Black man found hanging from a tree near City Hall in neighboring Palmdale, further fueled online speculation.
At least one social media post said the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station had confirmed the Klan’s purported plans, but law enforcement officials said that was inaccurate.
Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Station at (661) 948-8466.


latimes--2020-06-19--Nail salons, massage parlors and more can reopen in Ventura County following coronavirus closures

Residents will once again be able to visit nail salons , tattoo and massage parlors and other personal-care shops in Ventura County that have long had their windows darkened due to coronavirus-related restrictions , health officials said this week .
Just because those businesses can reopen starting Friday doesn ’ t mean it ’ s back to business as usual , though .
Services such as electrolysis , waxing , makeup , piercings and facial massages can only be offered if a client can keep his or her mask on , according to county guidelines released Thursday .
There ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ procedures conducted in confined spaces .
Wedding ceremonies are also now permitted with restrictions .
Attendance for outdoor services is capped at 100 — or potentially less depending on “ what the venue can safely support , ” according to the county .
Those held indoors can have either up to 100 attendees or fill 25 % of a venue ’ s capacity , whichever is less .
County officials also announced that movie theaters can restart their reels on June 26 .
All businesses planning to reopen must adhere to relevant social @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as register with the county at The announcement comes just days after the public health officer , Dr. Robert Levin , said it was possible the county may have to delay a wider reopening — citing an uptick in how many COVID-19 patients were hospitalized in the region .
“ At this point , it would be foolhardy to just open up and continue to open up everything given … what our numbers are doing , ” he said during Tuesday ’ s meeting of the county ’ s Board of Supervisors .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ were 47 such hospitalizations in Ventura County .
That number fell to 38 Wednesday before creeping back up to 41 Thursday .
That range is still up markedly from two weeks ago , when 25 COVID-19 patients were hospitalized , but the county said its hospitalizations have now stabilized .
Also on Thursday , Gov .
Gavin Newsom ordered all Californians to wear face coverings while in public or high-risk settings — citing concerns that too many unmasked people jeopardized “ the real progress we have made in fighting the disease.
” “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ economy and get people back to work will only be successful if people act safely and follow health recommendations , ” he said in a statement .
“ That means wearing a face covering , washing your hands and practicing physical distancing.
” However , the matter of enforcement remains an open question .
While those who violate the new requirement could be charged with a misdemeanor and potentially face a financial penalty under state law , officials have in the past focused on education and encouraging voluntary compliance .
Still , Levin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the county — said he accepts the state ’ s directive .
“ I always follow all the governor ’ s orders because that is the nature of the system , and I am happy to do that , ” he told the Ventura County Star on Thursday .

Busy Bee Cafe owner Raymundo Sanchez serves breakfast to Cal Youngblood, 75, at the downtown Ventura restaurant on May 21.
Residents will once again be able to visit nail salons, tattoo and massage parlors and other personal-care shops in Ventura County that have long had their windows darkened due to coronavirus-related restrictions, health officials said this week.
Just because those businesses can reopen starting Friday doesn’t mean it’s back to business as usual, though.
Services such as electrolysis, waxing, makeup, piercings and facial massages can only be offered if a client can keep his or her mask on, according to county guidelines released Thursday. There’s also a 30-minute time limit on procedures conducted in confined spaces.
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Wedding ceremonies are also now permitted with restrictions.
Tracking the coronavirus in California The latest maps and charts on the spread of COVID-19 in California.
Attendance for outdoor services is capped at 100 — or potentially less depending on “what the venue can safely support,” according to the county. Those held indoors can have either up to 100 attendees or fill 25% of a venue’s capacity, whichever is less.
Parties and receptions remain a no-go.
County officials also announced that movie theaters can restart their reels on June 26.
All businesses planning to reopen must adhere to relevant social distancing and health protocols, as well as register with the county at vcreopens.com.
The announcement comes just days after the public health officer, Dr. Robert Levin, said it was possible the county may have to delay a wider reopening — citing an uptick in how many COVID-19 patients were hospitalized in the region.
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“At this point, it would be foolhardy to just open up and continue to open up everything given … what our numbers are doing,” he said during Tuesday’s meeting of the county’s Board of Supervisors.
When Levin broached that possibility, there were 47 such hospitalizations in Ventura County. That number fell to 38 Wednesday before creeping back up to 41 Thursday.
That range is still up markedly from two weeks ago, when 25 COVID-19 patients were hospitalized, but the county said its hospitalizations have now stabilized.
Also on Thursday, Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered all Californians to wear face coverings while in public or high-risk settings — citing concerns that too many unmasked people jeopardized “the real progress we have made in fighting the disease.”
“California’s strategy to restart the economy and get people back to work will only be successful if people act safely and follow health recommendations,” he said in a statement. “That means wearing a face covering, washing your hands and practicing physical distancing.”
However, the matter of enforcement remains an open question. While those who violate the new requirement could be charged with a misdemeanor and potentially face a financial penalty under state law, officials have in the past focused on education and encouraging voluntary compliance.
Still, Levin — who previously eschewed requiring face coverings in the county — said he accepts the state’s directive.
“I always follow all the governor’s orders because that is the nature of the system, and I am happy to do that,” he told the Ventura County Star on Thursday.


latimes--2020-06-19--Federal lawsuit alleges Sacramento police used excessive force on protesters

Sacramento police are facing a lawsuit over officers ’ use of force including rubber bullets and tear gas during protests sparked by police brutality and the killing of George Floyd .
The lawsuit , which was filed in federal court on Thursday , names four plaintiffs , but also seeks class-action status for the thousands of peaceful protesters who filled the streets over the past several weeks in Sacramento and were met with what court papers describe as “ unreasonable and excessive use of force ” by officers .
Floyd , a Black man , was killed on May 25 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on his neck for nearly nine minutes .
Nationwide outrage and protests immediately followed , with many around the country “ disgusted by and fed-up with law enforcement ’ s all-too-frequent resort to deadly force without accountability , ” according to the lawsuit .
“ Demonstrating the very same propensity for the use of unjustified violence that gave rise to these recent nationwide demonstrations , [ Sacramento police ] officers took to the streets in droves , armed for war against their own citizenry , and employed severe and unjustified excessive force against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawsuit states .
Police departments across the country have faced scrutiny for the force they have used against protesters during recent demonstrations .
In Los Angeles , the LAPD is investigating 56 allegations of during protests , including 28 involving alleged use of force , according to the department .
It is not clear whether the Sacramento Police Department is conducting similar investigations .
A Sacramento city spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment on Friday .
The lawsuit , which alleges unreasonable and excessive force and constitutional violations , describes several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Thongxy Phansopha was demonstrating peacefully near 21st and J streets in downtown Sacramento .
Phansopha was near a line of police when officers began to indiscriminately fire their weapons into the crowd , according to the lawsuit .
Phansopha was hit with six rubber bullets — three to the head and face and three above the waist — and a tear gas canister and fell to the ground , but officers continued firing .
Phansopha needed two emergency , life-saving brain surgeries because of their injuries from the projectiles , the lawsuit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ severely bruised eye that was completely swollen shut and lacerations on their face and neck in a video taken after the incident .
That same day , Joshua Ruiz was protesting downtown near the Capitol when police opened fire .
He was struck several times with projectiles and fell to the ground where he continued to be hit , the lawsuit states .
Elisabeth Crouchley said she was near 20th and J streets about 25 feet from a police line early on May 31 when officers opened fire on the peaceful demonstrators .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ shouting , “ Don ’ t shoot !
Don ’ t shoot !
” as she ran from officers .
She was struck with a rubber bullet on her right buttock and with a bean bag on the back of her neck .
She was also hit with rubber bullets on the back of her head , her back , hip and foot , she said .
She received two staples at a hospital to close a laceration on her head , the lawsuit states .
Daniel Garza , a National Lawyers Guild @ @ @ @ @ @ @ several miles on May 30 as they walked from the Sacramento County Main Jail to 19th Street .
He was wearing a neon green hat that identified him as a guild observer and was taking video as officers formed a line and began to advance toward protesters .
As police moved forward , an officer told Garza to move in front of the police line .
He refused , afraid that he would be hit with projectiles , and explained that he was not part of the protest and was not interfering , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to his right throw an object toward the police line .
The object landed far behind the officers and did not strike them , he said .
In response , an officer raised his rifle and fired at Garza .
He was struck in the left side of his forehead , causing him to fall to the ground and cry out in pain , according to the lawsuit and a video of the incident .
He contends his speech became impaired as he fled the scene with a nursing student and a doctor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his wound .
All three of them were hit with pepper balls fired by officers , according to the lawsuit .
Garza continues to “ experience pain , swelling , and severe discoloration to the left side of his face where he was shot , including his left eye swelling shut , ” the lawsuit says .
He has also had trouble with his short-term memory , focus and speech and exhibits symptoms consistent with a traumatic brain injury , the suit states .
The lawsuit names the city of Sacramento and its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the police department ’ s own policies allow for the use of less lethal weapons like rubber bullets , but attorneys representing the plaintiffs say they are nevertheless dangerous .
“ In reality , projectile weapons have the ability to severely injure , permanently disable , and kill targets , ” the lawsuit states .

Demonstrators protest peacefully against police brutality and racial discrimination in Hollywood after the death of George Floyd on June 2.
Sacramento police are facing a lawsuit over officers’ use of force including rubber bullets and tear gas during protests sparked by police brutality and the killing of George Floyd.
The lawsuit, which was filed in federal court on Thursday, names four plaintiffs, but also seeks class-action status for the thousands of peaceful protesters who filled the streets over the past several weeks in Sacramento and were met with what court papers describe as “unreasonable and excessive use of force” by officers.
Floyd, a Black man, was killed on May 25 in Minneapolis when a white officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Nationwide outrage and protests immediately followed, with many around the country “disgusted by and fed-up with law enforcement’s all-too-frequent resort to deadly force without accountability,” according to the lawsuit.
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“Demonstrating the very same propensity for the use of unjustified violence that gave rise to these recent nationwide demonstrations, [Sacramento police] officers took to the streets in droves, armed for war against their own citizenry, and employed severe and unjustified excessive force against peaceful, non-violent demonstrators,” the lawsuit states.
Police departments across the country have faced scrutiny for the force they have used against protesters during recent demonstrations. In Los Angeles, the LAPD is investigating 56 allegations of misconduct by officers during protests, including 28 involving alleged use of force, according to the department.
It is not clear whether the Sacramento Police Department is conducting similar investigations. A Sacramento city spokesperson could not immediately be reached for comment on Friday.
The lawsuit, which alleges unreasonable and excessive force and constitutional violations, describes several incidents, including one on May 30 as Thongxy Phansopha was demonstrating peacefully near 21st and J streets in downtown Sacramento. Phansopha was near a line of police when officers began to indiscriminately fire their weapons into the crowd, according to the lawsuit.
Phansopha was hit with six rubber bullets — three to the head and face and three above the waist — and a tear gas canister and fell to the ground, but officers continued firing. Phansopha needed two emergency, life-saving brain surgeries because of their injuries from the projectiles, the lawsuit states.
Phansopha was seen with a severely bruised eye that was completely swollen shut and lacerations on their face and neck in a video taken after the incident.
That same day, Joshua Ruiz was protesting downtown near the Capitol when police opened fire. He was struck several times with projectiles and fell to the ground where he continued to be hit, the lawsuit states.
Elisabeth Crouchley said she was near 20th and J streets about 25 feet from a police line early on May 31 when officers opened fire on the peaceful demonstrators. She said she threw her hands up shouting, “Don’t shoot! Don’t shoot!” as she ran from officers.
She was struck with a rubber bullet on her right buttock and with a bean bag on the back of her neck. She was also hit with rubber bullets on the back of her head, her back, hip and foot, she said. She received two staples at a hospital to close a laceration on her head, the lawsuit states.
Daniel Garza, a National Lawyers Guild legal observer, was following marchers for several miles on May 30 as they walked from the Sacramento County Main Jail to 19th Street. He was wearing a neon green hat that identified him as a guild observer and was taking video as officers formed a line and began to advance toward protesters.
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As police moved forward, an officer told Garza to move in front of the police line. He refused, afraid that he would be hit with projectiles, and explained that he was not part of the protest and was not interfering, the lawsuit says.
Garza saw someone to his right throw an object toward the police line. The object landed far behind the officers and did not strike them, he said. In response, an officer raised his rifle and fired at Garza. He was struck in the left side of his forehead, causing him to fall to the ground and cry out in pain, according to the lawsuit and a video of the incident.
He contends his speech became impaired as he fled the scene with a nursing student and a doctor who attempted to apply a bandage to his wound. All three of them were hit with pepper balls fired by officers, according to the lawsuit.
Garza continues to “experience pain, swelling, and severe discoloration to the left side of his face where he was shot, including his left eye swelling shut,” the lawsuit says. He has also had trouble with his short-term memory, focus and speech and exhibits symptoms consistent with a traumatic brain injury, the suit states.
The lawsuit names the city of Sacramento and its police department as defendants. It notes that the police department’s own policies allow for the use of less lethal weapons like rubber bullets, but attorneys representing the plaintiffs say they are nevertheless dangerous.
“In reality, projectile weapons have the ability to severely injure, permanently disable, and kill targets,” the lawsuit states.


latimes--2020-06-19--Replica handgun found at scene of police shooting in San Bernardino, police say

A replica handgun was recovered from the scene where San Bernardino Police officers shot and killed a man outside a gas station last Saturday , police said this week .
Authorities identified the man as Anthony Angel Armenta , 21 , of San Bernardino .
Armenta was seen using a flashlight to dig through the trash shortly before the fatal police encounter , and some witnesses said they believed officers mistook the flashlight for a gun .
But in a news release Thursday night , San Bernardino police described the object as a replica handgun and said Armenta had pointed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire .
Officers had responded to the gas station in the 2700 block of North Del Rosa Avenue shortly before 8:30 p.m. for a report of a man with a gun , the police department said in the release .
They said that Armenta was armed with what appeared to be a black handgun and ignored multiple commands to drop it .
He allegedly raised the object and pointed it at an officer , prompting that officer and a second to open fire , according to investigators .
Armenta was taken to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not initially say whether a gun was recovered at the scene but released several photographs that showed a man holding an object that resembled a handgun .
Bystander video of the incident was also posted to YouTube .
Officers can be heard shouting at Armenta to “ drop the gun ” as he stands with his arms at his sides .
The video captures the sound of gunfire , but Armenta was out of the camera frame when the shooting took place .
San Bernardino police asked that anyone with information about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 909 ) 384-5762 or Sgt .
Al Tello at ( 909 ) 384-5613 .

A replica handgun was recovered from the scene where San Bernardino Police officers shot and killed a man outside a gas station last Saturday, police said this week.
Authorities identified the man as Anthony Angel Armenta, 21, of San Bernardino.
Anthony Angel Armenta, 21, of San Bernardino. (San Bernardino Police Department)
Armenta was seen using a flashlight to dig through the trash shortly before the fatal police encounter, and some witnesses said they believed officers mistook the flashlight for a gun.
But in a news release Thursday night, San Bernardino police described the object as a replica handgun and said Armenta had pointed it at an officer before police opened fire.
Officers had responded to the gas station in the 2700 block of North Del Rosa Avenue shortly before 8:30 p.m. for a report of a man with a gun, the police department said in the release.
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They said that Armenta was armed with what appeared to be a black handgun and ignored multiple commands to drop it. He allegedly raised the object and pointed it at an officer, prompting that officer and a second to open fire, according to investigators.
Armenta was taken to a hospital, where he died.
Police did not initially say whether a gun was recovered at the scene but released several photographs that showed a man holding an object that resembled a handgun.
Bystander video of the incident was also posted to YouTube. Officers can be heard shouting at Armenta to “drop the gun” as he stands with his arms at his sides. The video captures the sound of gunfire, but Armenta was out of the camera frame when the shooting took place.
San Bernardino police asked that anyone with information about the shooting call Det. Silva at (909) 384-5762 or Sgt. Al Tello at (909) 384-5613.


latimes--2020-06-19--Despite gradual reopening, California's unemployment rate remains stagnant

California ’ s jobless rate ticked down by a tenth of a percentage point in May , with some employers slightly boosting payrolls as businesses gradually reopen across the state .
As the COVID-19 pandemic continued , unemployment edged down to 16.3 % from a revised 16.4 % rate in April .
In Los Angeles County the toll was higher , with more than 1 in 5 workers out of work .
The state ’ s jobless rate was far above the Great Recession ’ s peak of 12.3 % a decade ago , state officials reported Friday .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % .
Employers added a net 141,600 positions last month , raising the state total to about 15.12 million .
But payrolls were down 13 % from a year earlier .
In April , a staggering 2.4 million people were thrown out of work , according to an updated estimate from the California Employment Development Department .
“ April ’ s revisions reflect unprecedented job losses never before seen in California ’ s history in a current data series that dates back to 1976 , ” the agency said .
The layoffs , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million positions last month , “ are a direct result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic , ” it added .
The EDD noted in its monthly report that “ rapidly evolving data ” prompted unusual statistical revisions to its April numbers .
( Last month , it reported an April unemployment rate of 15.5 % , which was included in an earlier version of this story . )
April ’ s job loss far eclipsed the record-setting 132,800 jobs erased between December 2008 and January 2009 during the Great Recession .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has come to a screeching halt like an automatic car transmission that suddenly gets thrown into reverse , ” said Scott Anderson , chief economist at Bank of the West .
“ We are forecasting the deepest U.S. and global recession since the Great Depression , and California ’ s economy will not be spared from the pandemic ’ s economic and financial damage.
” California ’ s initial jobless claims have soared by almost 4.7 million since March 21 , he added .
“ This is nearly equivalent to the 4.9 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 18-month Great Recession.
” Last week , 240,665 workers in the state filed new applications for unemployment benefits .
Nationwide , May ’ s payrolls were 11.7 % smaller than a year earlier , shedding 17.67 million positions .
The U.S. jobless rate fell to 13.3 % in May from 14.7 % in April , raising hopes that the economy might be starting a slow recovery .
However , the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that data collection difficulties since the pandemic took hold in March have meant the official jobless rate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % in May .
The jobs report , based on two separate surveys of households and businesses , covers the period from mid-April to mid-May .
California ’ s small gain in May — payrolls grew 0.9 % , compared with a 1.9 % national rise — may reflect the state ’ s deliberately slower reopening pace as compared to some other states , said Lynn Reaser , an economist with San Diego ’ s Point Loma Nazarene University .
State and county officials warn there may be a second wave of infections @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As California ’ s economy reopens , more people will be recalled to work and new jobs will be created even as others are lost , ” Reaser said .
“ But unemployment will remain disturbingly high as it will take time for the economy to adjust until a vaccine becomes widely available.
” Nine of California ’ s 11 broad employment sectors gained jobs in May , and two lost positions .
• Construction posted the largest jump ( 75,000 jobs ) thanks in part to low interest rates and strength in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hospitality saw the second-largest gain ( 64,800 jobs ) as some restaurants transitioned to curbside pickup and others opened with social distancing .
• Government had the largest drop ( 95,800 jobs ) , with state and local government jobs both experiencing large cuts .
School and university closures and slowing tax revenues took a toll .
• The information sector , which includes media and motion picture jobs , lost 6,300 jobs .
The state ’ s labor force , which includes workers as well as job seekers , shrank in May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 841,000 from a year earlier .
Many laid-off workers weren ’ t seeking new jobs , possibly because they feared infection or because so many businesses shut down .
Sung Won Sohn , an economist at Loyola Marymount University , called the labor force contraction “ worrisome.
” He suggested that the federal government ’ s generous unemployment benefits , amounting to $ 600 weekly through July on top of state payments , have encouraged workers to delay returning to the labor market .
“ The recovery will be a long process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ Hotels , restaurants , airlines and schools will need fewer people .
Many small businesses and highly leveraged firms may not survive.
” In Los Angeles County , May unemployment rose to 20.9 % from a revised 20.8 % in April .
Payrolls grew by 33,100 jobs to 3.94 million .
Orange County gained 13,900 jobs last month , bringing payrolls to about 1.4 million .
Its unemployment rate rose to 14.5 % from 13.8 % in April .
Joblessness also rose slightly in the Inland Empire , to 14.9 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ San Bernardino counties gained 17,800 jobs , bringing them to a total of about 1.36 million .
Despite the May uptick in jobs statewide , official notices last month attested to a continuing explosion of layoffs .
According to reports filed by employers with 75 or more workers , 3,409 companies erased 406,048 jobs .
That was down from April ’ s 646,894 reported layoffs .
But as a comparison , before the coronavirus outbreak hit the state , just 14,328 layoffs were logged in February under the California ’ s Worker Adjustment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , which requires companies to give workers 60 days ’ notice of plant closures and mass layoffs .
Much of the COVID-19-related job loss has come at small businesses , but companies with fewer than 75 workers are not required to issue notices .
Workers with less than six months of employment , and independent contractors such as Uber and Lyft drivers , are not counted in official tallies .
In the first half of June , even as some businesses started to reopen and rehire furloughed workers , official WARN layoff tallies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ companies shedding 129,298 employees .
Hotels , restaurant chains , entertainment venues and travel-related businesses , the hardest hit in the early stage of shutdowns , continued to furlough staff last month .
Enterprise Rent-A-Car laid off more than 1,000 workers statewide .
More than 700 people lost jobs at San Manuel Casino in San Bernardino County .
Loews Hotels in Santa Monica and Hollywood shed more than 500 workers .
And the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County laid off about 515 .
Layoffs have spread across many sectors .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ been struggling before the pandemic , announced it would lay off 10 % of its corporate staff , including 264 in San Francisco .
The company closed most of its 3,300 stores , furloughing 80,000 retail workers nationwide , in March .
Stitch Fix , also based in San Francisco , notified 1,400 California-based stylists they would be laid off as the company sought to cut costs by relocating to lower-wage states such as Texas and Ohio .
Manufacturers were hit too , with GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems in Garden Grove laying off @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fabricates restaurant equipment in Huntington Beach , shedding 150 workers .
The Los Angeles Museum of Natural History furloughed 121 employees .
Altamed Health Services , which operates medical clinics , laid off 136 in Los Angeles as coronavirus-fearing patients avoided venturing out to visit doctors and dentists .
Some workers may be rehired this month and in coming weeks , but with social distancing requirements and a recession squeezing pocketbooks , an untold number of temporary layoffs may become permanent .
Unemployment rates fell in May in 38 states and the District @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and stayed stable in nine states , federal officials reported .
Payrolls grew in 46 states , decreased in Hawaii and the District of Columbia , and were unchanged in three states .

California’s jobless rate ticked down by a tenth of a percentage point in May, with some employers slightly boosting payrolls as businesses gradually reopen across the state.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continued, unemployment edged down to 16.3% from a revised 16.4% rate in April. In Los Angeles County the toll was higher, with more than 1 in 5 workers out of work.
The state’s jobless rate was far above the Great Recession’s peak of 12.3% a decade ago, state officials reported Friday. In May 2019, California unemployment was 4.1%.
Employers added a net 141,600 positions last month, raising the state total to about 15.12 million. But payrolls were down 13% from a year earlier.
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In April, a staggering 2.4 million people were thrown out of work, according to an updated estimate from the California Employment Development Department.
“April’s revisions reflect unprecedented job losses never before seen in California’s history in a current data series that dates back to 1976,” the agency said. The layoffs “are a direct result of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” it added.
The EDD noted in its monthly report that “rapidly evolving data” prompted unusual statistical revisions to its April numbers. (Last month, it reported an April unemployment rate of 15.5%, which was included in an earlier version of this story.)
April’s job loss far eclipsed the record-setting 132,800 jobs erased between December 2008 and January 2009 during the Great Recession.
“California’s job growth engine has come to a screeching halt like an automatic car transmission that suddenly gets thrown into reverse,” said Scott Anderson, chief economist at Bank of the West. “We are forecasting the deepest U.S. and global recession since the Great Depression, and California’s economy will not be spared from the pandemic’s economic and financial damage.”
California’s initial jobless claims have soared by almost 4.7 million since March 21, he added. “This is nearly equivalent to the 4.9 million jobs lost in California during the entire 18-month Great Recession.”
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Last week, 240,665 workers in the state filed new applications for unemployment benefits.
Nationwide, May’s payrolls were 11.7% smaller than a year earlier, shedding 17.67 million positions. The U.S. jobless rate fell to 13.3% in May from 14.7% in April, raising hopes that the economy might be starting a slow recovery. However, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that data collection difficulties since the pandemic took hold in March have meant the official jobless rate is understated and may have reached 16.4% in May.
The jobs report, based on two separate surveys of households and businesses, covers the period from mid-April to mid-May.
California’s small gain in May — payrolls grew 0.9%, compared with a 1.9% national rise — may reflect the state’s deliberately slower reopening pace as compared to some other states, said Lynn Reaser, an economist with San Diego’s Point Loma Nazarene University. State and county officials warn there may be a second wave of infections if workplaces open too quickly.
“As California’s economy reopens, more people will be recalled to work and new jobs will be created even as others are lost,” Reaser said. “But unemployment will remain disturbingly high as it will take time for the economy to adjust until a vaccine becomes widely available.”
Nine of California’s 11 broad employment sectors gained jobs in May, and two lost positions.
• Construction posted the largest jump (75,000 jobs) thanks in part to low interest rates and strength in specialty trade contractors.
• Leisure and hospitality saw the second-largest gain (64,800 jobs) as some restaurants transitioned to curbside pickup and others opened with social distancing.
• Government had the largest drop (95,800 jobs), with state and local government jobs both experiencing large cuts. School and university closures and slowing tax revenues took a toll.
• The information sector, which includes media and motion picture jobs, lost 6,300 jobs.
The state’s labor force, which includes workers as well as job seekers, shrank in May by 86,000 from a month earlier and by 841,000 from a year earlier. Many laid-off workers weren’t seeking new jobs, possibly because they feared infection or because so many businesses had shut down.
Sung Won Sohn, an economist at Loyola Marymount University, called the labor force contraction “worrisome.” He suggested that the federal government’s generous unemployment benefits, amounting to $600 weekly through July on top of state payments, have encouraged workers to delay returning to the labor market.
“The recovery will be a long process, not an event,” Sohn said. “Hotels, restaurants, airlines and schools will need fewer people. Many small businesses and highly leveraged firms may not survive.”
In Los Angeles County, May unemployment rose to 20.9% from a revised 20.8% in April. Payrolls grew by 33,100 jobs to 3.94 million.
Orange County gained 13,900 jobs last month, bringing payrolls to about 1.4 million. Its unemployment rate rose to 14.5% from 13.8% in April. Joblessness also rose slightly in the Inland Empire, to 14.9% from 14.7%. Riverside and San Bernardino counties gained 17,800 jobs, bringing them to a total of about 1.36 million.
Despite the May uptick in jobs statewide, official notices last month attested to a continuing explosion of layoffs. According to reports filed by employers with 75 or more workers, 3,409 companies erased 406,048 jobs.
That was down from April’s 646,894 reported layoffs. But as a comparison, before the coronavirus outbreak hit the state, just 14,328 layoffs were logged in February under California’s Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification, or WARN, law, which requires companies to give workers 60 days’ notice of plant closures and mass layoffs.
Much of the COVID-19-related job loss has come at small businesses, but companies with fewer than 75 workers are not required to issue notices. Workers with less than six months of employment, and independent contractors such as Uber and Lyft drivers, are not counted in official tallies.
In the first half of June, even as some businesses started to reopen and rehire furloughed workers, official WARN layoff tallies reflected a historic pace, with 1,538 companies shedding 129,298 employees.
Hotels, restaurant chains, entertainment venues and travel-related businesses, the hardest hit in the early stage of shutdowns, continued to furlough staff last month. Enterprise Rent-A-Car laid off more than 1,000 workers statewide. More than 700 people lost jobs at San Manuel Casino in San Bernardino County. Loews Hotels in Santa Monica and Hollywood shed more than 500 workers. And the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Orange County laid off about 515.
Layoffs have spread across many sectors. In retail, Gap, which had been struggling before the pandemic, announced it would lay off 10% of its corporate staff, including 264 in San Francisco. The company closed most of its 3,300 stores, furloughing 80,000 retail workers nationwide, in March.
Stitch Fix, also based in San Francisco, notified 1,400 California-based stylists they would be laid off as the company sought to cut costs by relocating to lower-wage states such as Texas and Ohio.
Manufacturers were hit too, with GKN Aerospace Transparency Systems in Garden Grove laying off 40 workers and Cambro Manufacturing, which fabricates restaurant equipment in Huntington Beach, shedding 150 workers.
The Los Angeles Museum of Natural History furloughed 121 employees. Altamed Health Services, which operates medical clinics, laid off 136 in Los Angeles as coronavirus-fearing patients avoided venturing out to visit doctors and dentists.
Some workers may be rehired this month and in coming weeks, but with social distancing requirements and a recession squeezing pocketbooks, an untold number of temporary layoffs may become permanent.
Unemployment rates fell in May in 38 states and the District of Columbia, rose in three states and stayed stable in nine states, federal officials reported. Payrolls grew in 46 states, decreased in Hawaii and the District of Columbia, and were unchanged in three states.