Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 18

Horoscopes Sept. 12, 2025: Jennifer Hudson, take control, and follow the path that excites you

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Ryan Potter, 30; Emmy Rossum, 39; Jennifer Hudson, 44; Benjamin McKenzie, 47.

Happy Birthday: Take control, and follow the path that excites you most. Stop worrying about what others think, and start doing what makes you happy. It’s up to you to determine how you want your life to unfold. Surround yourself with like-minded people and build your relationships and pastimes to meet your needs. Get your facts and priorities straight, and be the one to initiate change. Your numbers are 3, 14, 21, 26, 33, 35, 49.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Use your imagination, and you can turn your creativity into a lucrative endeavor. Attending functions will help connect you to people who can offer positive feedback and a path to marketing your skills and talents, or items you wish to sell. Focus your energy on decluttering your life and redirecting your attention to what matters most. 4 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Sign up for something entertaining, engaging and physically rewarding, and you’ll enjoy the outcome. A chance to join forces with someone trying to reach the same goal will speed up the process. Send out resumes, check the job market, or make cold calls and introduce yourself to someone who can help you get ahead. 3 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Be careful what you sign up for. Someone will try to persuade you to participate in something costly. Working at home to improve your environment or lifestyle will bring the most in return. Entertain close friends and family, and explore ways to reduce your overhead and enhance your financial security. Romance is favored. 3 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Don’t let anger take hold; staying calm and offering alternatives will lead to progress. Home improvements will encourage you to entertain more. Avoid events and activities that are overpriced and create opportunities for unnecessary expenses. Distance yourself from pushy individuals trying to take advantage of you. Take time to pamper yourself. 4 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Invest in your future. Take better care of yourself and your interests. Refuse to let emotions interfere with decisions, especially when partnerships, reputation and finances are involved. Channel your energy into being the best version of yourself. Strive for good health, a happy home environment and expanding your interests, knowledge and skills. 2 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Take control. Know what you want, put a plan in place and do what you do best. If you follow your heart, you’ll find your people and the pastimes that make you sparkle. Shape your future by satisfying your needs, and your best traits will emerge, attracting positive results. Think big, but budget wisely. 5 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Put a to-do list in place and resolve all issues and updates. Be open to suggestions, but be careful who you trust. If you act in haste, you will likely find yourself having to backtrack. Sticking to a budget and paying attention to detail are mandatory if you intend to reach your objective. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Get moving. Exercise, fitness, a healthy diet and a positive lifestyle, along with strong relationships with others, are the keys to personal happiness. Participating in events or joining organizations that foster socialization and connection with like-minded individuals who contribute to your well-being can help you gain confidence and attract engaging and supportive friendships. 3 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your intentions are good and your ideas unique, but your timing is off. Refrain from jumping into something without facts and figures in place. Take a break and give yourself a chance to digest information and rethink how you proceed. Your emotions will surface and cost you if you let them infiltrate your decisions. 3 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Use your experience, time and energy to bring about positive change. Socializing will prove valuable and encourage you to get out and meet interesting people. What you discover through discussions you engage in will help you make better financial and health choices. Opportunities are within reach, and partnerships look promising. Share and prosper. 5 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): A change won’t be as it appears. Take a moment to analyze what’s unfolding before you, and then beef up your commentary to let others know what you are thinking and feeling. Focus your efforts on preserving your relationships with others, rather than blaming or criticizing those you love. A healthy alternative will be personal growth and self-improvement. 2 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Sit tight, watch what’s happening around you and look for a practical approach that will satisfy your needs. Keep your plans to yourself and channel your energy into tidying up unfinished business. Conversations will lead to emotional encounters that require restraint, thoughtfulness and compromise. Put your best foot forward, and choose peace over discord. 2 stars

Birthday Baby: You are knowledgeable, helpful and appealing. You are persistent and resourceful.

1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes.
2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others.
3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals.
4 stars: Aim high; start new projects.
5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.

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Gonzales’ Bettencourt, Salinas’ Escutia nominated for NFL’s Latino Youth Honors

Gonzales offensive lineman Lawrence Bettencourt and Salinas flag football standout Alissa Escutia have been nominated by the San Francisco 49ers for the NFL’s Latino Youth Honors program.

Latino Youth Honors is an NFL program that recognizes latino youth throughout the country for tackle and flag football players that are considered by their coaches, teachers and peers as role models within their local communities.

Each year, every NFL team selects two nominees to send forward to the national selection process. Finalists and ultimate winners are awarded thousands of dollars in grants and tickets to the Super Bowl.

Bettencourt is a three-year starter for Gonzales, who plays on the offensive and defensive lines, while sporting a 4.5 grade point average. He also plays basketball and competes in track, and is an FFA member.

Escutia is coming off a season in which she had over 1,700 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns in 2024 for Salinas. Sporting a 3.9 grade point average, she promotes youth fitness through a running and walking program at her former elementary school.

The best kids T-shirts for everyday fun and comfort

What are the best kids’ T-shirts?

No matter how old you are, T-shirts remain a wardrobe essential. As expected, kids wear their fair share of T-shirts, and since they’re constantly growing, you’re regularly buying replacements.

The Adidas Boys’ Short Sleeve Logo Tee is a crowd favorite for its breathable, lightweight design, but there are many more if that look isn’t quite right.

What to know before you buy kids’ T-shirtsSizing

Most kids’ T-shirts follow traditional toddler, boys’ and girls’ sizing. However, while many manufacturers share the same size ranges, fit tends to vary quite a bit. As a result, it’s not uncommon for kids to wear different sizes in different brands.

Fit

Finding the best T-shirt boils down to finding one that fits well. A well-fitting shirt allows kids to move freely, whether they’re sleeping, lounging, running or playing.

Some kids are most comfortable wearing fitted or slim-fit styles, where others prefer relaxed-fit T-shirts. Other kids may like sizing up so they can enjoy a baggy, loose fit. Additionally, sizing up may offset any shrinkage due to washing, as is common with cotton T-shirts.

Washing kids’ T-shirts

When it comes to T-shirts, how you wash them impacts their life spans. Most styles are machine-washable and dryer-safe, but some styles require special care.

T-shirts with graphics or logos, for example, should be washed with bleach-free detergent. Some people prefer hanging them to dry, as the heat may cause graphics and logos to deteriorate.If possible, always wash T-shirts with garments of the same color to prevent discoloration and bleeding.You can wash kids’ white T-shirts with a load of light-colored clothing. Or, they can be cleaned on their own with bleach to preserve their bright, white color.It’s often recommended to wash T-shirts in cool water, as hot water may cause cotton T-shirts to shrink.What to look for in a quality kids’ T-shirtMaterials

Classic T-shirts are made of 100% cotton, though that’s far from the only material choice. Here are some other options you’ll come across, followed by the pros and cons of each material.

Cotton: Popular for their soft, breathable designs, all-cotton blends are also affordable, which is why it’s common to invest in more than one or multipacks. However, cotton is prone to shrinking and fading in the wash.Cotton blends: Cotton blends may include polyester, spandex, elastane, rayon or bamboo. Cotton blends are durable, as they’re colorfast and retain their shape. Unfortunately, some of these T-shirts are more expensive than others.Polyester: Polyester T-shirts are popular for activewear, especially for sports, gym class or play. They have a moderate amount of stretch and a lightweight feel. However, one of the pitfalls of polyester is that it’s rarely as soft as cotton or cotton blends.Tagless

Many clothing brands have embraced tagless T-shirt designs. They’re popular for kids’ T-shirts because they don’t chafe or irritate sensitive skin. In most tagless T-shirts, size and care information is printed on the inside of the shirt near the collar.

Crew neck vs. v-neck

Kids’ T-shirts are available in either crew neck or V-neck styles. Crew neck is more common, though some kids aren’t fans of the high-cut, close-fitting styling. On the other hand, V-neck styles may offer a more comfortable fit since they have slightly larger neck openings.

How much you can expect to spend on kids’ T-shirts

Plain cotton T-shirts for kids cost $3-$10 each, while T-shirt multipacks cost $10-$18. Kids’ T-shirts made with blended materials or featuring designs run between $12 and $35.

Kids’ T-shirts FAQShould I buy a multipack of kids’ T-shirts?

A. Many people gravitate toward multipacks since they’re cost-effective. They’re usually available in solid colors, though some sets include T-shirts with designs. However, quality is generally hit or miss with multipack T-shirts.

How long will a kids’ T-shirt last?

A. If kids are tough on T-shirts, particularly with sports or outdoor play, you may find yourself replacing them more often. For all other T-shirts worn casually, they usually last until the next growth spurt.

What’s the best kids’ T-shirt to buy?Top kids’ T-shirt

Adidas Boys’ Short Sleeve Logo Tee

What you need to know: Lightweight and breathable, this polyester Adidas tee is ideal for activewear.

What you’ll love: It has soft, chafe-free details that won’t irritate sensitive skin. It features Adidas’ signature Tri-stripe logo, and the fit doesn’t cling to the body like other polyester T-shirts.

What you should consider: A few consumers felt the quality wasn’t as high as expected from Adidas.

Top kids’ T-shirt for the money

Fruit of the Loom Cotton White T-shirts

What you need to know: Popular for everyday kids’ white T-shirts and crafting, these classic white tees are affordable and practical.

What you’ll love: This option uses 100% cotton that becomes progressively softer with wash and wear. The soft details include a tagless design and chafe-free stitching, and the crew neck retains its shape well.

What you should consider: There are occasional reports that the sizing was off. Prone to shrinking.

Worth checking out

Champion Girls T-shirt for Kids

What you need to know: An updated design, this Champion tee features a new-and-improved fit that is comfortable true to size.

What you’ll love: The easy-care design is machine-washable. Its relaxed fit is ideal for active or everyday wear. It uses a lightweight and breathable cotton blend and comes in a wide variety of colors.

What you should consider: There have been several reports that the tee doesn’t run true to size.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Best deep-pocket fitted sheets

Which deep-pocket fitted sheets are best?

If you are in the market for some new bedding, it’s important not to skimp on your sheets. They play just as much of a role in comfort and temperature regulation as the comforter. And like a comforter, they come in a wide range of styles and materials.

When it comes to purchasing fitted sheets though, one aspect many people forget to consider is the pocket depth. This is especially important for those who have mattresses 14 inches thick or more. If you have one of these plush-style mattresses, you’ll need to purchase a pair of deep-pocket fitted sheets like the Charter Club Damask Extra Deep Pocket 100% Supima Cotton Sheets. This particular set stands out for its notable softness and wide range of available colors. They can fit mattresses up to 21 inches deep too.

What to know before you buy deep-pocket fitted sheetsMattress size

When buying a deep-pocket fitted sheet, it is important to know both the size and depth of your mattress. The size is often simple enough, as most people know whether they have a twin, full, queen or king bed. Make sure though, if you have a California king, a split king, an Olympic queen or another somewhat less standard mattress, that you select a sheet specifically made for that type.

The thickness is the area where many people often run into an issue. Some deep-pocket fitted sheets are only intended for mattresses 15 inches thick, while others are suitable for mattresses up to 25 inches thick. You can find this information in the product details of the sheets in question. If you are unsure of the thickness of your mattress, your best bet is to pull out a tape measure and take a measurement. If you don’t have a tape measure or some other type of ruler, you can estimate the thickness of your mattress if you are comfortable doing so. Just remember that it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose one a little bigger than you think you might need.

Material

Sheets come in a wide variety of materials that affect their comfort. Cotton is one of the most popular materials because it is natural, durable and it breathes well. It is also good for both warm and cold climates, depending on its thickness and construction. For example, both flannel and jersey knit are made from cotton, but the former is ideal for winter time use while the latter can be perfect for summer.

Linen may seem like an unusual choice for sheets because it can feel a bit scratchy when new, however it softens up nicely after a few washes. It is also highly breathable, so it can keep you cool in warm climates. As an added bonus, linen is very durable and will last longer than many other fabrics. The biggest downside to linen is its tendency to wrinkle easily.

Bamboo is another top choice for the warmer months of the year. It tends to be even lighter weight and more breathable than cotton, and it is also hypoallergenic so pretty much everyone can use it. Bamboo is considered an eco-friendly material too, because of its fast-growing nature.

Those looking for warm sheets for winter time use will want to consider satin, silk, microfiber and fleece. Satin and silk feel very soft and smooth against the skin, but some people may find them a bit too slippery. Fleece and microfiber are both durable and cozy materials that trap heat well.

Features to look for in quality deep-pocket fitted sheetsThread count

Many people often believe that a higher thread count in cotton means more comfortable sheets; however, this isn’t always the case. Instead, a higher thread count should be equated to more thickness and durability rather than softness. It can also equate to more warmth, which means lower thread count sheets may be a better choice for warm climates and summer use. It should also be noted that thread count only matters in cotton. In microfiber, you’ll want to look at the GSM, while silk sheets are denoted in mommes.

Hypoallergenic

It is common for allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen and mold spores to settle on sheets. To combat this, some manufacturers make their sheets out of antimicrobial and hypoallergenic materials. These can make sleeping more comfortable for those who are susceptible to allergy triggers.

Shrink resistant

Some sheets are preshrunk or processed in a way that makes them resistant to future shrinking. This is very important for people who put their sheets in a dryer rather than hanging them to dry. Most commonly, you’ll find this feature in cotton, microfiber and fleece sheets. Linen and silk sheets are often made a little bit large to accommodate for some shrinkage.

Pocket

Though uncommon, some manufacturers incorporate a small pocket in their sheets that can be used to hold a TV remote, reading material or even a small tablet.

How much can you expect to spend on deep-pocket fitted sheets

Deep-pocket fitted sheets can cost as little as $15 for a low-quality option for a small twin or full bed and up to several hundred for a premium set of silk sheets for a king bed. Most people can find comfortable, quality sheets between$50-$150.

Deep-pocket fitted sheets FAQHow often should I wash my sheets?

A. It is recommended that you wash your sheets at least once per week to avoid a buildup of allergens and skin oils.

Should I put my sheets in the dryer?

A. Most sheets can be safely put in the dryer as long as you follow the manufacturer’s care instructions regarding temperature and other dryer settings. The exceptions to this are linen and silk sheets, which should be hung to dry.

What are the best deep-pocket fitted sheets to buy?Top deep-pocket fitted sheets

Charter Club Damask Extra Deep Pocket 100% Supima Cotton Sheets

What you need to know: These 21-inch-deep sheets are popular for their exceptionally soft feel and wide variety of available color options.

What you’ll love: They come as a set with a flat sheet and two matching pillowcases. They are also OEKO-TEX certified so you can feel good about having them in your home.

What you should consider: They tend to wear out quickly with repeated drying.

Top deep-pocket fitted sheets for the money

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Southshore Fine Living, Inc. Queen Sheets 4-Piece Set | 21″ Extra Deep Pocket

What you need to know: If you are looking for something classy that offers exceptional value for the money, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better option than these.

What you’ll love: They are made from a soft microfiber material that keeps you warm and cozy on cold nights. They also stand up well to machine washing and drying.

What you should consider: They don’t breathe well, so if you are prone to sleeping hot, these may not be the right choice.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

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Appeals court allows Trump’s administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood

BOSTON (AP) — A U.S. appeals court panel on Thursday allowed President Donald Trump’s administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood while legal challenges continue.

Related Articles Historically Black colleges issue lockdown orders, cancel classes after receiving threats Trump draws cheers and boos while marking 9/11 by attending a New York Yankees game Texas drops lawsuit against doctor accused of illegally providing care to transgender youth Utah, where Charlie Kirk was killed, has strong pro-gun laws Trump administration requests emergency ruling to remove Cook from Fed board

A federal judge in July ruled Planned Parenthood clinics nationwide must continue to be reimbursed for Medicaid funding as the nation’s largest abortion provider fights Trump’s administration over efforts to defund the organization in his signature tax legislation.

Medicaid is a government health care program that serves millions of low-income and disabled Americans. Nearly half of Planned Parenthood’s patients rely on Medicaid.

A provision in Trump’s tax bill instructed the federal government to end Medicaid payments for one year to abortion providers that received more than $800,000 from Medicaid in 2023, even to those like Planned Parenthood that also offer medical services like contraception, pregnancy tests and STD testing.

Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its member organizations in Massachusetts and Utah filed a lawsuit in July against Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

“While the Trump administration wants to rip away reproductive freedom, we’re here to say loud and clear: we will not back down,” Dominique Lee, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts said in a statement. “This is not over.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services didn’t immediately respond to an online request for comment.

Planned Parenthood said Thursday’s ruling means that more than 1.1 million patients can’t use their Medicaid insurance at its health centers. That also puts as many as 200 of those health centers at risk of closure, Planned Parenthood said in a statement.

Planned Parenthood says it is the nation’s leading provider and advocate of affordable sexual and reproductive health care, as well as the nation’s largest provider of sex education.

PHOTOS: 9/11 memorial ceremony held in Salinas

The bell was rung to commemorate the victims of the 9/11 attack at the memorial ceremony in Salinas. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)From left to right: City Manager René Mendez, Mayor Dennis Donohue and District 3 council member Margaret D’Arrigo were all in attendance of Thursday's 9/11 memorial ceremony. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)Salinas Mayor Dennis Donohue addresses the attendees. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)In commemoration of the 9/11 attacks, the City of Salinas held a memorial ceremony in front of the Salinas City Hall. The Salinas Fire Department, Police Department and City Council were present as well as many members of the community. Fire Chief Sam Klemek, Police Chief Carlos Acosta and Mayor Dennis Donohue addressed over 100 attendees. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)In commemoration of the 9/11 attacks, the City of Salinas held a memorial ceremony in front of the Salinas City Hall. The Salinas Fire Department, Police Department and City Council were present as well as many members of the community. Fire Chief Sam Klemek, Police Chief Carlos Acosta and Mayor Dennis Donohue addressed over 100 attendees. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)The Salinas Police Department presents the colors during Thursday's 9/11 memorial ceremony. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)Salinas Mayor Dennis Donohue addresses the attendees. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)In commemoration of the 9/11 attacks, the City of Salinas held a memorial ceremony in front of the Salinas City Hall. The Salinas Fire Department, Police Department and City Council were present as well as many members of the community. Fire Chief Sam Klemek, Police Chief Carlos Acosta and Mayor Dennis Donohue addressed over 100 attendees. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)In commemoration of the 9/11 attacks, the City of Salinas held a memorial ceremony in front of the Salinas City Hall. The Salinas Fire Department, Police Department and City Council were present as well as many members of the community. Fire Chief Sam Klemek, Police Chief Carlos Acosta and Mayor Dennis Donohue addressed over 100 attendees. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)Show Caption1 of 9The bell was rung to commemorate the victims of the 9/11 attack at the memorial ceremony in Salinas. (Chris Hamilton - Monterey Herald)Expand

Historically Black colleges issue lockdown orders, cancel classes after receiving threats

By SARA CLINE

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — A series of reported threats toward historically Black colleges and universities across the U.S. on Thursday led to lockdown orders, canceled classes and heightened security.

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Authorities did not elaborate on the type of threats that were made and no injuries have been reported. The FBI told The Associated Press that they are taking the “hoax threat calls“ seriously and that there is “no information to indicate a credible threat.”

Although lockdowns have since been lifted, schools that received the threats continue to act with an abundance of caution. In an era of mass shootings — and following a wave of violence Wednesday and a spate of hoax calls about active shooters at the start of the school year — some universities opted to call off classes for the rest of the week and send students home.

U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, a Louisiana Democrat, called the threats “reprehensible attacks” and said that any threat made against HBCUs is “a threat against us all.”

“These attacks cannot be tolerated, minimized, or ignored,” he said. “They must be met with swift and decisive action.”

Southern University in Louisiana, which reported a “potential threat to campus safety” on the 8,200-student campus and put students under lockdown for about an hour. At Alabama State University, which sits near downtown Montgomery and has an enrollment of about 3,500, students were ordered to shelter-in-place as police searched each building on campus.

About two hours later, the university said that it had received the “all-clear” from police. However, the school said that while the “immediate threat has been resolved” students were asked to shelter in place in their dorms and classes were cancelled for the remainder of the day.

Clark Atlanta University in Georgia, Virginia State University, Hampton University in Virginia and Bethune-Cookman University in Florida also reported threats.

FILE – The campus of Clark Atlanta University is seen April 21, 2019, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Jeff Martin, File)

Precautionary measures came at a time of heightened worry on school campuses over violence following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah Valley University and a shooting at a Colorado high school.

Swatting incidents typically increase after violent events, putting schools on edge, said Don Beeler, chief executive officer of TDR Technology Solutions, which tracks swatting calls and offers technology to prevent them. The safety measures that schools may implement following potential threats could be heightened, such as cancelling class for a few days, instead of just one day.

“Anything that happens in the next week is going to get an overreaction than what you normally see,” Beeler said.

Other HBCUs that did not receive threats announced that they, too, were tightening security.

Baton Rouge Police block the entrance of Southern University’s campus at the corner of Harding Boulevard and Scenic Highway, Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, after a threat led administers to announce a lockdown, in Baton Rouge, La. (Javier Gallegos/The Advocate via AP)

South Carolina State University required anyone coming on campus, in Orangeburg, to show a photo ID after the threats started surfacing. Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia — which neighbors a university that did receive a threat — issued a lockdown Thursday and said it was amping up security measures.

At the start of the school year, at least a dozen college campuses received hoax calls about active shooters. The realistic-sounding calls, some of which had gunshots that could be heard in the background, prompted universities to issue lockdowns with directions to “run, hide, fight.”

Cline reported from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Associated Press Writers Kimberly Chandler in Montgomery, Alabama; Heather Hollingsworth in Mission, Kansas; and Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina

Trump draws cheers and boos while marking 9/11 by attending a New York Yankees game

By WILL WEISSERT and STEPHEN WHYNO

NEW YORK (AP) — President Donald Trump attended the New York Yankees game on Thursday night, drawing a mixed reaction while marking the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, after honoring the memories of the victims at the Pentagon earlier in the day.

Related Articles Appeals court allows Trump’s administration to block Medicaid funds to Planned Parenthood Historically Black colleges issue lockdown orders, cancel classes after receiving threats Texas drops lawsuit against doctor accused of illegally providing care to transgender youth Utah, where Charlie Kirk was killed, has strong pro-gun laws Trump administration requests emergency ruling to remove Cook from Fed board

Authorities installed security glass outside an upper level suite on the third base side, over the visiting Detroit Tigers dugout, for the president. During the National Anthem, Trump was shown on the stadium jumbotron and received boos from some in the crowd, cheers from others.

Moments earlier, as he first took his seat, the president briefly waved to the crowd and flashed a thumb’s up — but not all fans noticed because there was no announcement he was arriving.

The stadium also briefly played Trump’s unofficial campaign anthem, “God Bless the USA,” but to little reaction. There were chants of “USA! USA! USA!” but they were more related to marking Sept. 11 than Trump’s attending the game.

All that followed Trump stopping by the home team’s clubhouse about 15 minutes before the game. He shook hands with the players and team staff members, and talked about being close for years with late Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, calling him “a great friend of mine, the whole family.”

Trump predicted the Yankees would win, noting of his past attending games with Steinbrenner, “We won every time I came.”

President Donald Trump talks with New York Yankees Aaron Judge, right, in the New York Yankees locker room before a baseball game against the Detroit Tigers, Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, Pool)

“You think that was easy sitting with him for a game? It wasn’t. It was brutal. But he won, and you’re going to win,” the president said.

He later added: “You’re going to go all the way, and you’ll get in the playoff — and I think we’ll start off, how about tonight? We’ll start from tonight on, and you’re going to do well.” The Tigers beat the Yankees during the first two games of the series Tuesday and Wednesday by a combined score of 23-3.

Trump said he wanted to “wish you guys a lot of luck. You’re great players, I know, every one of you.” He also recalled that the Yankees’ archrival, the Boston Red Sox, had visited him in the Oval Office earlier this summer and then went on a long winning streak.

Manager Aaron Boone said before Trump’s arrival that Yankees leftfielder Anthony Volpe had quietly been playing with a partial labrum tear in his left shoulder. As he greeted him, Trump patted him softly on the shoulder.

“It’s something that I’m excited to be a part of,” Boone said of Trump being on-hand.

A presidential visit always prompts extra security at sporting events, but things were heightened after conservative activist and close Trump ally Charlie Kirk was assassinated in Utah on Wednesday. When Trump attended the Sept. 11 observance ceremony at the Pentagon earlier Thursday, authorities moved the ceremony inside as an added precaution.

Trump’s attendance recalled President George W. Bush’s ceremonial first pitch 24 years earlier as the Yankees played the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2001 World Series — a moment that came to symbolize national resilience after the attacks mere weeks earlier.

Since the attacks, the Yankees and their fans have marked Sept. 11 during the seventh-inning stretch by singing “God Bless America” in addition to the traditional “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” and they were doing so again Thursday. They also held a moment of silence before the first pitch.

Security at the stadium was tight, with entrance featuring metal detectors and Secret Service agents, some with sniffer dogs, while New York Police Department helicopters thundered overhead.

Stadium authorities opened the gates three hours before the first pitch, and long lines began forming even before that, though most of the crowd appeared to be moving into the stadium smoothly. The Yankees said ticketholders were “strongly urged to arrive as early as possible.”

Fans wait to pass through security screening at Yankee Stadium before a baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

The Secret Service said extra time would likely be needed to enter the game and asked fans to consider leaving their bags at home.

Trump’s attendance at the U.S. Open men’s final in Queens last weekend sparked security lines long enough that some fans didn’t make it to their seats until more than an hour into the match, despite organizers delaying its start by 30 minutes.

The game is Trump’s eighth major sporting event since returning to the White House in January. He attended the Super Bowl in New Orleans, the Daytona 500, UFC fights in Miami and Newark, New Jersey, the NCAA wrestling championships in Philadelphia, the FIFA Club World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and last weekend’s U.S. Open match.

The Yankee Stadium scoreboard featured a large MLB logo over an American flag and a red, white and blue ribbon under the inscription “September 11, 2001, We Shall Not Forget.”

President Donald Trump arrives at Yankee Stadium before a baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Detroit Tigers Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

The large American flag behind the left field bleachers and the smaller flags for each of baseball’s 30 teams that ring the stadium’s upper level were lowered to half-staff after Trump issued an executive order honoring Kirk. Before Wednesday’s game, the Yankees held a moment of silence for Kirk and flashed his picture on their stadium’s big screen.

Trump was born in the New York borough of Queens and, though he’s lived in Florida in recent years, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said he “remains a New Yorker at heart.” Still, Trump’s appearances at baseball games haven’t always been welcomed by fans.

During his first term in 2019, Trump tried to make a low-profile appearance as the Washington Nationals hosted the Houston Astros in the World Series, but was booed roundly when shown on the stadium’s big screen. There were even chants of “Lock him up!”

Trump administration to end grant funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions, affecting many California colleges

The U.S. Department of Education said Wednesday it is ending a grant program for Hispanic-Serving Institutions and several similar programs, a decision expected to sap funding from California colleges and universities that are eligible for extra federal dollars because they enroll high numbers of Latino students.

Campuses earn a Hispanic-Serving Institution designation by having an undergraduate student body that is at least 25% Latino. California has 167 such institutions, more than any other state, including five University of California campuses, 21 California State University campuses and most of the state’s community colleges. Cal State Monterey Bay, as well as Hartnell and Monterey Peninsula College are all Hispanic-Serving Institutions.

The designation allows those colleges to apply for the grants, which are competitive and not guaranteed to all HSIs. Together, California institutions have received more than $600 million in HSI grants since the program’s inception in 1995.

CSU Chancellor Mildred García said in a statement that ending the HSI grant program “will have an immediate impact and irreparable harm to our entire community.” CSU campuses have used grants to help more students graduate faster, increase the number of low-income students in STEM majors and even train faculty in culturally responsive pedagogy.

“Without this funding, students will lose the critical support they need to succeed in the classroom, complete their degrees on time, and achieve social mobility for themselves and their families,” she said.

“As CSU Chancellor Mildred García shared in a statement yesterday, federal HSI funding was used to support all students across the system and the same is true at Cal State Monterey Bay. We are still determining how the loss of funding will affect our campus, but we are disappointed in the decision to end the funding program that has helped so many of our students attain a college degree and go on to successful careers,” said CSUMB spokesman Walter Ryce.

“Nearly half of the students we serve at Cal State Monterey Bay identify as Hispanic and Latiné, and we are proud that the diversity of the state of California is part of the fiber of our university,” he said. “We remain dedicated to providing accessible and affordable education to all the students we serve.”

Cal State Monterey Bay is a Hispanic-Serving Institution. (Brent Dundore-Arias, CSUMB)

U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said grants for HSIs and other minority-serving institutions “discriminate by restricting eligibility to institutions that meet government-mandated racial quotas,” and called them unconstitutional.

“The Department looks forward to working with Congress to reenvision these programs to support institutions that serve underprepared or under-resourced students without relying on race quotas and will continue fighting to ensure that students are judged as individuals, not prejudged by their membership of a racial group,” McMahon added in a statement.

In total, the department said it will hold back $350 million in grant funding that was budgeted for fiscal year 2025. Most of that would have gone to HSIs, but some of it also would have been allocated to grant programs for colleges enrolling high numbers of Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiian students, Asian American students and Black students.

In California’s Central Valley, the State Center Community College District’s four campuses — Clovis, Fresno City, Madera and Reedley — are each HSIs and have received millions of dollars in grant funding to support a range of student services.

Reedley, for example, has earned nearly $2 million in HSI grants that have funded initiatives including career counseling, transfer support and dual enrollment.

When the Department of Education announced Wednesday that it plans to cut funding for HSI grants, “we weren’t surprised,” said Chancellor Carole Goldsmith.

“It was very saddening,” she said. “But it was something we thought may be coming.”

Because officials have anticipated federal funding cuts, Goldsmith said the district set aside about $4 million in its 2025-26 budget to support programs that could be impacted by losses. In the short term, that funding will protect any initiatives across the district that rely on HSI funding, Goldsmith said.

Goldsmith added that she expects the White House’s decision won’t be the final word on the grant program, saying she believes it could face legal challenges. “We are not sure if this is a presidential authority or if this authority rests with Congress,” she said.

The White House’s move to end grants for HSIs and other minority-serving institutions comes after a lawsuit was filed earlier this year challenging the HSI grant program.

The state of Tennessee and the anti-affirmative action organization Students for Fair Admissions filed the lawsuit in U.S. district court, arguing that the criteria to become an HSI are unconstitutional and that all colleges serving low-income students should be able to apply for the grants available to HSIs.

The U.S. Department of Justice later decided not to defend the program against the lawsuit, with U.S. Solicitor General D. John Sauer writing to House Speaker Mike Johnson in July that HSI programs “violate the equal-protection component of the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause.”

Proponents of HSIs argue that the program and grant funding are not discriminatory because grants for HSIs are meant to be spent on initiatives that could benefit any student at the college, not just Hispanic students.

That’s the case across the 22-campus CSU system, according to García, the chancellor, who said in a statement that HSI grant funding “not only helps advance the CSU’s educational mission, but it also supports CSU’s efforts to carry out our core values of inclusive excellence, social mobility, authentic access to higher education and equity in all its dimensions.”

“The CSU remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that all students continue to have access to affordable, high-quality higher education,” she added.

The Herald’s Arianna Nalbach contributed to this report.

 

Marina Council approves updated Recreation and Aquatics Center design

MARINA – The Marina City Council approved an updated design for the city’s proposed $42 million Recreation and Aquatics Center, and also on using a Construction Manager at Risk process, but language for its request for proposals will come at a late October meeting.

At its Sept. 3 meeting, the Council considered approving the updated design, the use of the Construction Manager at Risk public works project delivery method for the project, and authorizing the city manager to issue a request for proposals for CMAR services.

COAR Design Group representative Jeff Katz explained that using the CMAR approach, the architect (COAR Design Group) and the Construction Manager at Risk are under separate contracts with the owner (City of Marina). The construction manager is hired early in the design phase of the project and CMAR is required to commit to delivering the project within a guaranteed maximum price. Risk is shared as the owner, architect and CMAR work together to make decisions.

Marina Mayor Pro-tem Liesbeth Visscher said the Council requested staff to come back to the council no later than the second meeting in October with language to establish labor standards for the Recreation and Aquatics Center project to be included in the request for proposals.

“The proposed language to establish labor standards will need to be reviewed by the city attorney before staff will bring it back to the council in October,” said Visscher.

The language proposed by the NorCal Carpenters Union includes “agreement to ensure that all contractors performing carpenter-related work on the project comply with wage, health care and apprenticeship standards. The purpose of these labor standards is to ensure that the Projects promote the retention and growth of a skilled, healthy and reliable construction labor pool, that can live as well as work in Monterey County. The details of the labor standards will be included in the Bid Specifications.”

Several council members expressed their desire for the city to offer apprenticeships.

“We submitted our 100% design development documents and are now going to be dropping into construction documents later next month,” said COAR Design Group Design Manager Courtney Sluder. “The goal is to start construction early summer” 2026.

The City of Marina Aquatic and Recreation Complex site is located on land bordered by 2nd Avenue to the east, 9th Street to the north, 8th Street to the south, and the VA/DoD clinic area to the west. The complex is next to the future Dunes City Park Project with the main buildings of the complex being the planned renovated aquatic center, renovated recreation center and the addition of a connector building between the two. The complex and Dunes park area are being designed to compliment access for both.

The City of Marina Aquatic and Recreation Complex and Dunes park area are being designed to compliment access for both. (City of Marina)

The complimentary design for the complex and the park include cohesive lighting, planting, paving and site furniture palettes, as well as utility coordination, parking and site circulation, building materials and colors, and angular forms. COAR is striving to have a cohesive project that looks like the complex’s designers talked to the park’s designers so that it visually works as one big project rather than two different ones that are on the same site.

The connector building will have main entrances on the north and south sides. It has design updates that include an open stairwell to the lobby, an added laundry room, administration and multipurpose room locations switched for more centralized programming. On its second floor, design updates include reconfigured multipurpose rooms for better acoustic separation and increased size, admin access to the north deck, enhanced lobby space with two-story volume and circulation around three sides, removal of connection to raised walkway and increased storage.

Design updates to the aquatic center include a reconfigured multipurpose room and mechanical room, developed locker room layout and furniture, added designated entry for swim meets and events, glazing added for views into natatorium (indoor swimming pool area) from the plaza, cafe and admin area, and an added stair entry to the competition pool.

Design updates to the recreation center include an enclosed auxiliary gym, the removal of the raised walking track due to structural and operational constraints, a fitness mezzanine and stairs added for additional cardio space, developed locker room layout and furniture, increased storage and ground floor walking track.

“We are still tracking on budget,” said Sluder. “We’re looking at around $42 million now based on our updated cost estimate that we got on our 100% design development package.”

Single-phase construction includes $4.2 million for site work, buildings at $34.9 million, furniture, fixtures and equipment at $600,000, for a subtotal at $39.8 million, with additional soft costs, such as engineering fees, architecture fees, permitting, etc. at $2.3 million, for a total of $42 million pending confirmation of the CMAR approach that was approved.

Next steps are to coordinate with the city to advertise the RFP for the CMAR delivery method, said Katz. Then to assist the city with CMAR during evaluation and review process, coordinate with selected CMAR to obtain updated cost estimates and evaluate potential cost savings to keep the project on budget. The sports center, aquatic center and connector building would then proceed into construction documents, permitting, final bidding and construction.

The COAR Design Group expects to break ground on this project by mid 2026.