David Sjostedt

In a fitting tribute to the first day of Women’s History Month, Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi—both of whom have strong ties to San Francisco—sat behind President Joe Biden as he delivered his first State of the Union Address. Also looming over the president’s shoulder: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/inflation-avocado-toast-coffee-e-bikes-san-francisco-staples/">Record-high inflation</a>, war in Europe and a surging opioid epidemic that’s taken more lives in North America than both world wars in the past 25 years, <a href="http://www.thelancet-press.com/embargo/OpioidCommission.pdf">according to a recent report</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<p>In a fitting tribute to the first day of Women’s History Month, Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi—both of whom have strong ties to San Francisco—sat behind President Joe Biden as he delivered his first State of the Union Address. Also looming over the president’s shoulder: <a href="https://sfstandard.com/business/inflation-avocado-toast-coffee-e-bikes-san-francisco-staples/">Record-high inflation</a>, war in Europe and a surging opioid epidemic that’s taken more lives in North America than both world wars in the past 25 years, <a href="http://www.thelancet-press.com/embargo/OpioidCommission.pdf">according to a recent report</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Biden did his best to strike a hopeful tone—highlighting record job creation and a receding pandemic while focusing on Ukraine’s fierce resistance against Russian forces. For those who tuned into the president’s speech at Manny’s—the Mission “community space” where local politicos and activists gather to sip coffee, drink beer and talk shop—there was plenty to celebrate, despite all the international and domestic uncertainty.

<p>Biden did his best to strike a hopeful tone—highlighting record job creation and a receding pandemic while focusing on Ukraine’s fierce resistance against Russian forces. For those who tuned into the president’s speech at Manny’s—the Mission “community space” where local politicos and activists gather to sip coffee, drink beer and talk shop—there was plenty to celebrate, despite all the international and domestic uncertainty.</p>

More than 30 people eventually wandered into Manny’s Tuesday night. The scene was a stark contrast from two years ago. Rather than gathering outside and wearing masks, patrons sat around mostly maskless, cheering the president when he said something that struck a chord.&nbsp;

<p>More than 30 people eventually wandered into Manny’s Tuesday night. The scene was a stark contrast from two years ago. Rather than gathering outside and wearing masks, patrons sat around mostly maskless, cheering the president when he said something that struck a chord.&nbsp;</p>

Gil Bar-Or, a software engineer from Sunnyvale who phone banked for Biden at Manny’s during the 2020 election, said he was enthusiastic that the president seemed focused on expanding tech opportunities across the country. Biden spent part of his speech acknowledging the CEO of Intel, Pat Gelsinger, for investing in a computer chip manufacturing plant in Ohio—a part of the country known more for dying company towns than thriving tech startups.

<p>Gil Bar-Or, a software engineer from Sunnyvale who phone banked for Biden at Manny’s during the 2020 election, said he was enthusiastic that the president seemed focused on expanding tech opportunities across the country. Biden spent part of his speech acknowledging the CEO of Intel, Pat Gelsinger, for investing in a computer chip manufacturing plant in Ohio—a part of the country known more for dying company towns than thriving tech startups.</p>

“It’s one thing I’ve always wondered growing up in Silicon Valley, how can we spread the wealth,” Bar-Or said.&nbsp;

<p>“It’s one thing I’ve always wondered growing up in Silicon Valley, how can we spread the wealth,” Bar-Or said.&nbsp;</p>

Tech wasn’t the only issue that hit close to home for San Franciscans. Those working on the frontlines of the city’s overdose epidemic also expressed optimism to hear Biden utter the words “harm reduction.”

<p>Tech wasn’t the only issue that hit close to home for San Franciscans. Those working on the frontlines of the city’s overdose epidemic also expressed optimism to hear Biden utter the words “harm reduction.”</p>

“Biden understands, very clearly, that harm reduction and recovery aren’t oppositional to each other,” Gary Mccoy, director of policy at HealthRight 360—one of the city’s largest addiction treatment providers—wrote in a statement to The Standard. “As a person in recovery, I got emotional hearing him celebrate the 23 million of us in recovery.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<p>“Biden understands, very clearly, that harm reduction and recovery aren’t oppositional to each other,” Gary Mccoy, director of policy at HealthRight 360—one of the city’s largest addiction treatment providers—wrote in a statement to The Standard. “As a person in recovery, I got emotional hearing him celebrate the 23 million of us in recovery.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

Though only one person at Manny’s noted he was disappointed with Biden’s assertion that American cities need to “fund the police,” the comment drew some pointed reactions from locals on Twitter.

<p>Though only one person at Manny’s noted he was disappointed with Biden’s assertion that American cities need to “fund the police,” the comment drew some pointed reactions from locals on Twitter.</p>

The founder of the District Attorney recall, Richie Greenberg, <a href="https://twitter.com/richieSF2016/status/1498854239149309953">tweeted</a> that funding the police “will not go over well in San Francisco.”

<p>The founder of the District Attorney recall, Richie Greenberg, <a href="https://twitter.com/richieSF2016/status/1498854239149309953">tweeted</a> that funding the police “will not go over well in San Francisco.”</p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">“Fund the police” are will not go over well in San Francisco.</p>&mdash; Richie Greenberg (@greenbergnation) <a href="https://twitter.com/greenbergnation/status/1498854239149309953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2022</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In addition to praising “the iron will of the Ukrainian people” for resisting “Putin’s war,” the president also sought to reassure Americans.

<p>In addition to praising “the iron will of the Ukrainian people” for resisting “Putin’s war,” the president also sought to reassure Americans.</p>

“I want you to know that we are going to be OK,” Biden said, noting that the tragedy of war has had at least one positive side effect: “We see unity among the people who are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-ukrainians-rally-in-fear-for-families-country/">gathering in cities in large crowds</a> around the world even in Russia to demonstrate their support for Ukraine.”

<p>“I want you to know that we are going to be OK,” Biden said, noting that the tragedy of war has had at least one positive side effect: “We see unity among the people who are <a href="https://sfstandard.com/politics/sf-ukrainians-rally-in-fear-for-families-country/">gathering in cities in large crowds</a> around the world even in Russia to demonstrate their support for Ukraine.”</p>

He also worked to reassure Americans that the war would not hurt the economy, though academics and casual observers have been able to see the effects of the conflict at the pump.

<p>He also worked to reassure Americans that the war would not hurt the economy, though academics and casual observers have been able to see the effects of the conflict at the pump.</p>

At the gas station two blocks down from Manny’s, unleaded gas cost $4.69 per gallon.

<p>At the gas station two blocks down from Manny’s, unleaded gas cost $4.69 per gallon.</p>

SF State economics professor Venoo Kakar said that reducing gas prices is essential to lowering the prices of everything else, and is a key factor in controlling inflation. Biden touted that he and 30 other countries had tapped into 60 million barrels of oil to try and diminish the economic impact of Russia’s invasion.&nbsp;

<p>SF State economics professor Venoo Kakar said that reducing gas prices is essential to lowering the prices of everything else, and is a key factor in controlling inflation. Biden touted that he and 30 other countries had tapped into 60 million barrels of oil to try and diminish the economic impact of Russia’s invasion.&nbsp;</p>

“It’s all contingent on gas prices,” Kakar said. “He made the speech, that’s good, but now we have to wait and see.”

<p>“It’s all contingent on gas prices,” Kakar said. “He made the speech, that’s good, but now we have to wait and see.”</p>

Biden’s State of the Union resonates with locals working in tech, harm reduction

The Standard Staff

<strong>9:30 a.m., Jan. 25 | Mexican Nationals Among Victims</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>9:30 a.m., Jan. 25 | Mexican Nationals Among Victims</strong></h2>


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<h2><strong>9:30 a.m., Jan. 25 | Mexican Nationals Among Victims</strong></h2>

Three of the victims of Monday&#8217;s shootings were Mexican nationals, the country&#8217;s consulate confirmed Tuesday morning. Two of them died in the massacre, and the third is currently hospitalized.

<p>Three of the victims of Monday's shootings were Mexican nationals, the country's consulate confirmed Tuesday morning. Two of them died in the massacre, and the third is currently hospitalized. </p>

<p>Three of the victims of Monday&#8217;s shootings were Mexican nationals, the country&#8217;s consulate confirmed Tuesday morning. Two of them died in the massacre, and the third is currently hospitalized. </p>

<strong>9:25 p.m., Jan. 24 | Possible Motive Revealed</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>9:25 p.m., Jan. 24 | Possible Motive Revealed</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>9:25 p.m., Jan. 24 | Possible Motive Revealed</strong></h2>

The man accused of&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/live-blog-heres-what-we-know-about-the-half-moon-bay-shootings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gunning down eight people</a>&nbsp;at two Half Moon Bay farms told investigators that he felt “disrespected” after being picked on by coworkers for years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcbayarea.com/investigations/half-moon-bay-mass-shooting-suspect-2/3138641/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBC Bay Area first reported</a>.

<p>The man accused of&nbsp;<a href="https://sfstandard.com/community/live-blog-heres-what-we-know-about-the-half-moon-bay-shootings/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">gunning down eight people</a>&nbsp;at two Half Moon Bay farms told investigators that he felt “disrespected” after being picked on by coworkers for years,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nbcbayarea.com/investigations/half-moon-bay-mass-shooting-suspect-2/3138641/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBC Bay Area first reported</a>.</p>

Police sources said alleged shooter Chunli Zhao, 66, sat in his vehicle in a sheriff’s substation parking lot with a handgun, ammunition and a “matter of fact” goodbye note when he was arrested.

<p>Police sources said alleged shooter Chunli Zhao, 66, sat in his vehicle in a sheriff’s substation parking lot with a handgun, ammunition and a “matter of fact” goodbye note when he was arrested.</p>

The law enforcement officials told NBC Bay Area’s Jaxon Van Derbeken that in the note Zhao acknowledged the shooting and urged his wife to care for their adult child living in China.

<p>The law enforcement officials told NBC Bay Area’s Jaxon Van Derbeken that in the note Zhao acknowledged the shooting and urged his wife to care for their adult child living in China.</p>

Zhao could face a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/half-moon-bay-shooting-suspect-could-face-7-murder-charges-death-penalty/">litany of murder charges and even the death penalty</a>, San Mateo County prosecutors said.

<p>Zhao could face a <a href="https://sfstandard.com/criminal-justice/half-moon-bay-shooting-suspect-could-face-7-murder-charges-death-penalty/">litany of murder charges and even the death penalty</a>, San Mateo County prosecutors said.</p>

The rampage unfolded Monday at two mushroom farms where suspected shooter Zhao had worked. The shootings killed five men and two women whose names have not been released. One man was injured and is hospitalized.

<p>The rampage unfolded Monday at two mushroom farms where suspected shooter Zhao had worked. The shootings killed five men and two women whose names have not been released. One man was injured and is hospitalized.</p>

<strong>6:20 p.m., Jan. 24 | Local and State Officials Call for Stricter Gun Control</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>6:20 p.m., Jan. 24 | Local and State Officials Call for Stricter Gun Control</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>6:20 p.m., Jan. 24 | Local and State Officials Call for Stricter Gun Control</strong></h2>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/5V9A0353.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117734"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Joaquin Jimenez, vice mayor of Half Moon Bay, said that the shootings are the latest tragedy to befall marginalized farm workers already reeling from the pandemic and winter storms. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/5V9A0353.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117734"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Joaquin Jimenez, vice mayor of Half Moon Bay, said that the shootings are the latest tragedy to befall marginalized farm workers already reeling from the pandemic and winter storms. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

During an emotional press conference after two mass shootings in Half Moon Bay which left seven dead, local and state officials called on stricter gun control laws and grieved for the community, a rural seaside town normally known for farms and festivals.

<p>During an emotional press conference after two mass shootings in Half Moon Bay which left seven dead, local and state officials called on stricter gun control laws and grieved for the community, a rural seaside town normally known for farms and festivals.</p>

“Usually in this parking lot, we celebrate the pumpkin festival. Today, we are here for a different reason,” said Joaquin Jimenez, Half Moon Bay vice mayor and  farmworker director for Ayudando Latinos A Soñar. “We never thought it was going to happen in our community. But it happened.”

<p>“Usually in this parking lot, we celebrate the pumpkin festival. Today, we are here for a different reason,” said Joaquin Jimenez, Half Moon Bay vice mayor and  farmworker director for Ayudando Latinos A Soñar. “We never thought it was going to happen in our community. But it happened.”</p>

Jimenez said he grieved for the town’s farm-worker community because the shooting is the latest tragedy on top of the recent flooding and the Covid pandemic, which have pummeled farmworkers in the region. Jimenez said that 98% of farmworkers suffer from mental health issues, and that many are forced to work into old age because of low pay.

<p>Jimenez said he grieved for the town’s farm-worker community because the shooting is the latest tragedy on top of the recent flooding and the Covid pandemic, which have pummeled farmworkers in the region. Jimenez said that 98% of farmworkers suffer from mental health issues, and that many are forced to work into old age because of low pay.</p>

“It’s been exposed how our farmworker community is living; the living conditions, let’s not ignore that. The mental health support they need, let’s not ignore that,” Jimenez said.

<p>“It’s been exposed how our farmworker community is living; the living conditions, let’s not ignore that. The mental health support they need, let’s not ignore that,” Jimenez said.</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/5V9A0401.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117723"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Assemblymember Phil Ting called for stricter gun control laws during a press conference. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


Assemblymember Phil Ting joined Gov. Gavin Newsom in calling for stricter gun control laws in California, and said he was committed to making communities safer, although he did not mention specific policies.

<p>Assemblymember Phil Ting joined Gov. Gavin Newsom in calling for stricter gun control laws in California, and said he was committed to making communities safer, although he did not mention specific policies.</p>

“It is still way too easy for any individual to obtain a legal or illegal firearm in this state. That’s just a fact,” Ting said. “My colleagues and I at the state level, we’re going to be going back to work to really think about what else we can do to further protect the community in Half Moon Bay and really all of the communities up and down the state.”

<p>“It is still way too easy for any individual to obtain a legal or illegal firearm in this state. That’s just a fact,” Ting said. “My colleagues and I at the state level, we’re going to be going back to work to really think about what else we can do to further protect the community in Half Moon Bay and really all of the communities up and down the state.”</p>

Ting, who represents San Francisco’s western half, said that the timing of two mass shootings coinciding with the Lunar New Year is tragic.

<p>Ting, who represents San Francisco’s western half, said that the timing of two mass shootings coinciding with the Lunar New Year is tragic.</p>

“It’s a time of rebirth, to restart everything, and to have two horrific shootings in our state, one in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay, come on the heels of Lunar New Year, it’s unimaginable,” Ting said.

<p>“It’s a time of rebirth, to restart everything, and to have two horrific shootings in our state, one in Monterey Park and Half Moon Bay, come on the heels of Lunar New Year, it’s unimaginable,” Ting said.</p>

<strong>4:30 p.m., Jan. 24 | Gov. Decries &#8216;Weapons of War&#8217;</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>4:30 p.m., Jan. 24 | Gov. Decries &#8216;Weapons of War&#8217;</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>4:30 p.m., Jan. 24 | Gov. Decries 'Weapons of War'</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>4:30 p.m., Jan. 24 | Gov. Decries &#8216;Weapons of War&#8217;</strong></h2>

Gov. Newsom decried called for stricter gun control laws during his visit to Half Moon Bay, where he joined local officials for a late-afternoon press conference.

<p>Gov. Newsom decried called for stricter gun control laws during his visit to Half Moon Bay, where he joined local officials for a late-afternoon press conference. </p>

The governor lamented the recent spate of massacres in California and so many more in the rest of the nation: &#8220;Thirty-nine of these mass shootings, and we&#8217;re only at day 24 of the new year.&#8221;

<p>The governor lamented the recent spate of massacres in California and so many more in the rest of the nation: "Thirty-nine of these mass shootings, and we're only at day 24 of the new year."</p>

<p>The governor lamented the recent spate of massacres in California and so many more in the rest of the nation: &#8220;Thirty-nine of these mass shootings, and we&#8217;re only at day 24 of the new year.&#8221;</p>

He specifically decried the &#8220;weapons of war&#8221; and &#8220;large-capacity magazines&#8221; that kill so many people so quickly, saying they&#8217;re &#8220;No. 1 in gun ownership and No. 1 in gun deaths—it&#8217;s not even complicated.&#8221;

<p>He specifically decried the "weapons of war" and "large-capacity magazines" that kill so many people so quickly, saying they're "No. 1 in gun ownership and No. 1 in gun deaths—it's not even complicated."</p>

<p>He specifically decried the &#8220;weapons of war&#8221; and &#8220;large-capacity magazines&#8221; that kill so many people so quickly, saying they&#8217;re &#8220;No. 1 in gun ownership and No. 1 in gun deaths—it&#8217;s not even complicated.&#8221;</p>

The speech included some harsh words about House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, with Newsom condemning his silence after back-to-back mass shootings.

<p>The speech included some harsh words about House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, with Newsom condemning his silence after back-to-back mass shootings.</p>

&#8220;We haven&#8217;t heard a damn word from him—not since Monterey Park, not what happened here—not one word,&#8221; the governor said. &#8220;Where has he been on gun safety reform? Where has the Republican party been on gun safety reform? They blocked it every step of the way. One state can&#8217;t do it alone. Shame on them.&#8221;

<p>"We haven't heard a damn word from him—not since Monterey Park, not what happened here—not one word," the governor said. "Where has he been on gun safety reform? Where has the Republican party been on gun safety reform? They blocked it every step of the way. One state can't do it alone. Shame on them."</p>

<p>&#8220;We haven&#8217;t heard a damn word from him—not since Monterey Park, not what happened here—not one word,&#8221; the governor said. &#8220;Where has he been on gun safety reform? Where has the Republican party been on gun safety reform? They blocked it every step of the way. One state can&#8217;t do it alone. Shame on them.&#8221;</p>

<strong>12:09 p.m., Jan. 24 | FBI at Mushroom Farm</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>12:09 p.m., Jan. 24 | FBI at Mushroom Farm</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>12:09 p.m., Jan. 24 | FBI at Mushroom Farm</strong></h2>

The FBI have been spotted at the Mountain Mushroom Farm where the suspected gunman 66-year-old Chunli Zhao of Half Moon Bay worked.

<p>The FBI have been spotted at the Mountain Mushroom Farm where the suspected gunman 66-year-old Chunli Zhao of Half Moon Bay worked.</p>

An FBI spokesperson said: &#8220;We continue to assist the San Mateo Sheriff&#8217;s Office with forensic, investigative and victim services resources.&#8221;

<p>An FBI spokesperson said: "We continue to assist the San Mateo Sheriff's Office with forensic, investigative and victim services resources."</p>

<p>An FBI spokesperson said: &#8220;We continue to assist the San Mateo Sheriff&#8217;s Office with forensic, investigative and victim services resources.&#8221;</p>

An FBI agent walks out of Mountain Mushroom Farm on Jan. 24, 2023, the location of the first of two deadly shootings near Half Moon Bay, Calif. that left seven dead. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/5V9A0198.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117470"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">An FBI agent walks out of Mountain Mushroom Farm on Jan. 24, 2023, the location of the first of two deadly shootings near Half Moon Bay that left seven dead. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<strong>12:01 p.m., Jan. 24 | Sheriff: &#8216;Workplace violence&#8217;</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>12:01 p.m., Jan. 24 | Sheriff: &#8216;Workplace violence&#8217;</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>12:01 p.m., Jan. 24 | Sheriff: 'Workplace violence'</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>12:01 p.m., Jan. 24 | Sheriff: &#8216;Workplace violence&#8217;</strong></h2>

At a morning press conference Tuesday, San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus said the suspect, 66-year-old Chunli Zhao of Half Moon Bay, worked at the first shooting location, Mountain Mushroom Farm.

<p>At a morning press conference Tuesday, San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus said the suspect, 66-year-old Chunli Zhao of Half Moon Bay, worked at the first shooting location, Mountain Mushroom Farm.</p>

Corpus said the victims were his coworkers.

<p>Corpus said the victims were his coworkers.</p>

“All of the evidence we have points to this being an instance of workplace violence,” Corpus said.

<p>“All of the evidence we have points to this being an instance of workplace violence,” Corpus said.</p>

Corpus said the semi-automatic handgun used in the attack was “legally purchased and owned.”

<p>Corpus said the semi-automatic handgun used in the attack was “legally purchased and owned.”</p>

Corpus said the authorities are still identifying the victims and notifying their families, which has been challenging because some of the victims come from migrant families.

<p>Corpus said the authorities are still identifying the victims and notifying their families, which has been challenging because some of the victims come from migrant families.</p>

San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe said Zhao will be arraigned Wednesday afternoon on homicide-related charges. Wagstaffe said the exact charges will not be determined until later Tuesday or early Wednesday.

<p>San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe said Zhao will be arraigned Wednesday afternoon on homicide-related charges. Wagstaffe said the exact charges will not be determined until later Tuesday or early Wednesday.</p>

“Cases like this, we’ve never had one in this county of this many deaths at one scene or one time, so it was a very hectic scene,” Wagstaffe said.

<p>“Cases like this, we’ve never had one in this county of this many deaths at one scene or one time, so it was a very hectic scene,” Wagstaffe said.</p>

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<strong>10:51 a.m., Jan. 24 | Newsom to Visit</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>10:51 a.m., Jan. 24 | Newsom to Visit</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>10:51 a.m., Jan. 24 | Newsom to Visit</strong></h2>

Gov. Gavin Newsom will travel to Half Moon Bay Tuesday to meet with victims’ families, local leaders and community members impacted by the devastating shootings yesterday that claimed seven lives, his office announced.

<p>Gov. Gavin Newsom will travel to Half Moon Bay Tuesday to meet with victims’ families, local leaders and community members impacted by the devastating shootings yesterday that claimed seven lives, his office announced.</p>

On Monday and Sunday, Gov. Newsom met with Monterey Park victims, their families, local officials and community members in the wake of the mass shooting this weekend that killed 11 victims and injured several others.

<p>On Monday and Sunday, Gov. Newsom met with Monterey Park victims, their families, local officials and community members in the wake of the mass shooting this weekend that killed 11 victims and injured several others.</p>

California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a bill-signing ceremony at Nido's Backyard Mexican Restaurant in Oakland, California, on Feb. 9, 2022. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signedlegislation to extend Covid supplemental paid sick leave for workers.


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1660" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/GettyImages-1369611852-2500x1660.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-43999"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">California Gov. Gavin Newsom | Justin Sullivan/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/GettyImages-1369611852-2500x1660.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-43999"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">California Gov. Gavin Newsom | Justin Sullivan/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>

<strong>10:12 a.m., Jan. 24 | &#8216;Holy shit, where are my kids?&#8217;</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>10:12 a.m., Jan. 24 | &#8216;Holy shit, where are my kids?&#8217;</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>10:12 a.m., Jan. 24 | 'Holy shit, where are my kids?'</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>10:12 a.m., Jan. 24 | &#8216;Holy shit, where are my kids?&#8217;</strong></h2>

Nivarra Bretz, who has lived near Half Moon Bay her entire life, was waiting in traffic with a coworker on her way home from work in Los Altos when she saw a line of unmarked but flashing vehicles heading east along Highway 92.

<p>Nivarra Bretz, who has lived near Half Moon Bay her entire life, was waiting in traffic with a coworker on her way home from work in Los Altos when she saw a line of unmarked but flashing vehicles heading east along Highway 92. </p>

That’s when she realized cars were stopped not just because of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hmbreview.com/news/geologists-say-void-in-highway-92-not-technically-sinkhole/article_9273ebca-9393-11ed-84ec-3f0b0fc972e0.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a sinkhole in the road</a>&nbsp;that has been slowing down her commute since the early January rainstorms.

<p>That’s when she realized cars were stopped not just because of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hmbreview.com/news/geologists-say-void-in-highway-92-not-technically-sinkhole/article_9273ebca-9393-11ed-84ec-3f0b0fc972e0.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a sinkhole in the road</a>&nbsp;that has been slowing down her commute since the early January rainstorms.</p>

As she passed Spanish Town, Bretz saw multiple police officers with their large guns out.

<p>As she passed Spanish Town, Bretz saw multiple police officers with their large guns out.</p>

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<figure class="wp-block-video"><video autoplay controls loop muted src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Snapsave.app_327337797_208281688381116_1114665286856341113_n.mp4" playsinline></video><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Footage from Highway 92 on Jan. 23, 2023 after the Half Moon Bay mass shooting incident | Courtesy Nivarra Bretz</figcaption></figure>

“We were surprised we were even allowed on [Highway] 92,” Bretz said. “It seemed like [the suspect] hadn’t been caught yet.”

<p>“We were surprised we were even allowed on [Highway] 92,” Bretz said. “It seemed like [the suspect] hadn’t been caught yet.”</p>

Bretz then headed to Shoreline Station to pick up her daughter. Just around 20 minutes later, the shooter would be arrested in the same parking lot.

<p>Bretz then headed to Shoreline Station to pick up her daughter. Just around 20 minutes later, the shooter would be arrested in the same parking lot.</p>

“The first thing was, &#8216;Holy shit, where are my kids?&#8217;” Bretz said. “It doesn’t happen here—ever.”

<p>“The first thing was, 'Holy shit, where are my kids?'” Bretz said. “It doesn’t happen here—ever.”</p>

<p>“The first thing was, &#8216;Holy shit, where are my kids?&#8217;” Bretz said. “It doesn’t happen here—ever.”</p>

<strong>7:40 a.m., Jan. 24 | Court Date Set</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>7:40 a.m., Jan. 24 | Court Date Set</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>7:40 a.m., Jan. 24 | Court Date Set</strong></h2>

Zhao Chunli. | Courtesy San Mateo Sheriff's Department


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Zhao.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117210"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chunli Zhao | Courtesy San Mateo Sheriff&#8217;s Department</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Zhao.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117210"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chunli Zhao | Courtesy San Mateo Sheriff's Department</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Zhao.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117210"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Chunli Zhao | Courtesy San Mateo Sheriff&#8217;s Department</figcaption></figure>

The alleged gunman, Chunli Zhao, 66, of Half Moon Bay, is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Wednesday. Zhao was apprehended outside the Half Moon Bay Police Substation Monday afternoon by Sheriff&#8217;s deputies.

<p>The alleged gunman, Chunli Zhao, 66, of Half Moon Bay, is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Wednesday. Zhao was apprehended outside the Half Moon Bay Police Substation Monday afternoon by Sheriff's deputies.  </p>

<p>The alleged gunman, Chunli Zhao, 66, of Half Moon Bay, is scheduled to make his first court appearance on Wednesday. Zhao was apprehended outside the Half Moon Bay Police Substation Monday afternoon by Sheriff&#8217;s deputies.  </p>

<strong>7:32 a.m., Jan. 24 | Locals React to Horrific Events</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>7:32 a.m., Jan. 24 | Locals React to Horrific Events</strong></h2>


<h2><strong>7:32 a.m., Jan. 24 | Locals React to Horrific Events</strong></h2>

Half Moon Bay&#8217;s bars and restaurants closed early Monday night after the shootings killed seven and injured one, a local bartender told The Standard.

<p>Half Moon Bay's bars and restaurants closed early Monday night after the shootings killed seven and injured one, a local bartender told The Standard. </p>

<p>Half Moon Bay&#8217;s bars and restaurants closed early Monday night after the shootings killed seven and injured one, a local bartender told The Standard. </p>

Macey Morton, a bartender at Cameron&#8217;s Pub and Restaurant said the business locked its doors at around 3:30 p.m. after she had seen police cars along Highway 1 near the restaurant.

<p>Macey Morton, a bartender at Cameron's Pub and Restaurant said the business locked its doors at around 3:30 p.m. after she had seen police cars along Highway 1 near the restaurant.</p>

<p>Macey Morton, a bartender at Cameron&#8217;s Pub and Restaurant said the business locked its doors at around 3:30 p.m. after she had seen police cars along Highway 1 near the restaurant.</p>

“It was scary. We were like, ‘What do we do?’” Morton said. “No one knew what was going on.”

<p>“It was scary. We were like, ‘What do we do?’” Morton said. “No one knew what was going on.”</p>

Lisa Doyle stands outside Cameron's Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay, Calif. on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1875" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230123_213034_HDR-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117330"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lisa Doyle outside Cameron&#8217;s Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230123_213034_HDR-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117330"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lisa Doyle outside Cameron's Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230123_213034_HDR-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117330"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lisa Doyle outside Cameron&#8217;s Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

Lisa Doyle, a Pacifica resident who was visiting Half Moon Bay in her RV, said<br>“I just think we gotta melt the guns. We wouldn’t have these issues if guns weren’t so accessible.”

<p>Lisa Doyle, a Pacifica resident who was visiting Half Moon Bay in her RV, said<br>“I just think we gotta melt the guns. We wouldn’t have these issues if guns weren’t so accessible.”</p>

“It happens everywhere. No place is safe, I guess,&#8221; said Bill Carl, a 25-year resident of Half Moon Bay. &#8220;I’m surprised it happened here.”

<p>“It happens everywhere. No place is safe, I guess," said Bill Carl, a 25-year resident of Half Moon Bay. "I’m surprised it happened here.”</p>

<p>“It happens everywhere. No place is safe, I guess,&#8221; said Bill Carl, a 25-year resident of Half Moon Bay. &#8220;I’m surprised it happened here.”</p>

Phil Thoren, who moved to Half Moon Bay from Saratoga five years ago said he did so looking for a quiet place to live, and that the mass shooting Monday shattered the feeling of security he originally had in the sleepy seaside town.

<p>Phil Thoren, who moved to Half Moon Bay from Saratoga five years ago said he did so looking for a quiet place to live, and that the mass shooting Monday shattered the feeling of security he originally had in the sleepy seaside town.</p>

Phil Thoren sits inside Cameron's Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img height="1875" width="2500" src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230123_211250_HDR-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117334"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Phil Thoren sits inside Cameron&#8217;s Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230123_211250_HDR-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117334"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Phil Thoren sits inside Cameron's Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://content.sfstandard.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/20230123_211250_HDR-2500x1875.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-117334"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Phil Thoren sits inside Cameron&#8217;s Pub and Restaurant in Half Moon Bay on Jan. 23, 2022. | Garrett Leahy/The Standard</figcaption></figure>

“This kind of reset the table for me. You’re aware this can happen anywhere,” Thoren said. “This was a shock”<strong><br></strong>

<p>“This kind of reset the table for me. You’re aware this can happen anywhere,” Thoren said. “This was a shock”<strong><br></strong></p>

<strong>6:52 a.m., Jan. 24 | Biden Weighs In</strong>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-52-a-m-jan-24-biden-weighs-in"><strong>6:52 a.m., Jan. 24 | Biden Weighs In</strong></h2>


<h2 id="h-6-52-a-m-jan-24-biden-weighs-in"><strong>6:52 a.m., Jan. 24 | Biden Weighs In</strong></h2>

President <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/01/24/statement-from-president-biden-on-the-shooting-in-half-moon-bay-california/">Joe Biden issued a statement</a> about the Half Moon Bay shootings Tuesday morning. The president said that after a briefing with Homeland Security, he instructed his administration to give their &#8220;full support&#8221; to the Half Moon Bay community in the wake of the &#8220;heinous attack.&#8221;

<p>President <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/01/24/statement-from-president-biden-on-the-shooting-in-half-moon-bay-california/">Joe Biden issued a statement</a> about the Half Moon Bay shootings Tuesday morning. The president said that after a briefing with Homeland Security, he instructed his administration to give their "full support" to the Half Moon Bay community in the wake of the "heinous attack."</p>

<p>President <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2023/01/24/statement-from-president-biden-on-the-shooting-in-half-moon-bay-california/">Joe Biden issued a statement</a> about the Half Moon Bay shootings Tuesday morning. The president said that after a briefing with Homeland Security, he instructed his administration to give their &#8220;full support&#8221; to the Half Moon Bay community in the wake of the &#8220;heinous attack.&#8221;</p>

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