It’s Friday, August 14th. I’m Mary Regalado, and here’s your local news from The Los Angeles Times. Today will be sunny and very hot, with a high over 100 degrees and a low tonight of 72. Our top story: There is cautious optimism that coronavirus transmission in California is heading downward. At least, that’s what officials say. Several signs show the state’s second shutdown is having its intended effect. Hospitalizations are falling in many regions.