Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 274

Top ice skates to help kids master the rink

Which ice skates for kids are best?

Ice skating is a fun hobby for children that’s great exercise to boot. Whether your child is hitting the rink for the first time or taking weekly lessons, the right pair of ice skates can make all the difference in helping them enjoy their experience.

Many children’s ice skates are designed to grow with your child, which is great news, since ice skates can be expensive. Our shopping guide covers all the factors you’ll want to consider before making a purchase, like style, sizing, adjustability, and closures. We also share our top recommendations at the end, including the easy-to-wear Lake Placid Starglide Double Runner Figure Ice Skate.

What to know before you buy ice skates for kidsSize

It’s important to know that ice skate sizes and shoe sizes don’t match. Measure your child’s feet (while they’re sitting down) and review a brand’s sizing chart before making a purchase. Resist sizing up when purchasing children’s ice skates — properly fitting skates should be snug, leaving just a finger’s length of space behind the heel before the closures are tightened.

Style

You have three basic options when it comes to style: figure, hockey, and hybrid. If your child is new to ice skating, this might seem like a difficult choice, but understanding the difference between the three styles can help you make your decision.

Figure: Figure skates have rigid ankle support, a longer blade, and tiny teeth at the front end called a toe pick. The toe pick helps the skater stop during spins and jumps but can be awkward for beginning skaters.Hockey: Hockey skates have a firm boot and a shorter, curved blade that makes quick footwork easier. Hockey skates are usually lighter than figure skates.Hybrid: If your child is just getting started in ice skating, hybrid skates can be a good choice. Hybrid options offer additional ankle support and a shorter blade for more stability and maneuverability.What to look for in quality ice skates for kidsAdjustability

If your child’s feet are still growing, adjustability is an important factor. Some skates can expand in the boot area by up to four sizes. Adjustable skates are best for casual skaters rather than competitive figure skaters or hockey players.

Cushioning

Ample cushioning allows your child to skate comfortably for longer and protect their feet from pucks or other hazards on the ice.

Blade material

Stainless steel or nickel blades are preferred, even for casual skaters. Lower-quality blade materials become dull more quickly, which can lead to friction on the ice, a bumpier ride, and falls.

Closures

Boot laces and buckles offer the tightest, most supportive fit. Keep in mind that for children who can’t yet tie their own shoes, laces can become cumbersome. Some models also offer Velcro straps, which are easy for children to manage on their own but don’t close as tightly as laces and buckles.

Color

Most children’s ice skate models offer plenty of fun color options, which can be extra incentive for your child to use their skates.

How much you can expect to spend on ice skates for kids

Children’s ice skates vary quite a bit in price depending on quality, size, and type. Budget models typically have lower-quality blades and cost between $15-$40. Pricier options run between $40-$160 and offer better blades, convenient buckle closures and specialized style options.

Ice skates for kids FAQWhen does it make sense to rent ice skates at the rink instead of buying them?

A. Renting instead of buying might make sense if your child rarely skates. However, if your child is taking a hockey or figure skating class or shows a lot of interest in ice skating, buying a pair is a good idea.

What should my child wear while ice skating?

A. Help your child have the best experience ice skating by dressing them in warm sweatpants or leggings instead of jeans (which can restrict movement) and a single pair of warm socks.

What are the best ice skates for kids?Top ice skates for kids

 

 

Jackson Ultima’s Finesse Figure Skates

What you need to know: These sturdy, comfortable skates are perfect for beginners and casual skaters.

What you’ll love: They have a comfortable fit. The stainless steel blades stay sharp. They offer great ankle support and quality construction. They come in five colors and plenty of size options.

What you should consider: They run small, so buy one size up.

 

Top ice skates for kids for the money

Lake Placid Summit Boy’s Adjustable Ice Skate

What you need to know: These comfortable skates are easy to use and have a broad size range.

What you’ll love: The push button size controller helps these skates have a customized fit. They have a warm lining and the blade is durable.

What you should consider: These are not ideal for beginners.

 

Worth checking out

 

Jackson Ultima – Mystique with Mark II Blade

What you need to know: These are a quality, midrange option that is great for budding figure skaters.

What you’ll love: High-quality nickel blades offer a smooth ride. The warm, thickly padded lining comes in several colors. The laces offer an optimal tight closure for figure skating.

What you should consider: The boot runs a bit small. Measure carefully and consult the sizing chart.

 

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.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Stay dry and comfortable with these top snowboard pants

Which snowboard pants are best?

Whether you’re a hard-charging snowboarder or planning your first trip to the slopes, a good pair of snowboard pants is an essential aspect of having a good time and keeping warm. No one wants to take time off to sit in the lodge because they’re wet and cold.

However, with so many different options on the market, choosing the right pair can be a hassle. If you’re interested in top-of-the-line pants you can rely on season after season, check out the Burton AK Cyclic Snow Pant.

What to know before you buy snowboard pantsStyle

While most snowboard pants are regular pants, some include a chest bib. Although some people find them uncomfortable, bibs add storage and warmth while keeping out the snow and improving the fit of your pants. However, bibs often cost more and aren’t necessary for infrequent snowboarders or people who tend to stay out of deep snow.

Critically vs. fully taped seams

Fully taped seams are completely waterproof, so you won’t have to worry about your phone getting damaged by moisture. Critically taped seams, on the other hand, are only taped in spots where the company thinks there is a high risk of getting wet.

Shell vs. insulated snowboard pants

Like with snowboard jackets, consider whether you want an insulated pair of snowboard pants or not. Insulated pants help you stay warm but may add weight and reduce overall flexibility. Shell pants provide little to no direct warmth but protect your thermal base layer from the elements.

What to look for in a quality pair of snowboard pantsBuilt-in gaiters

Quality snowboard pants have built-in gaiters at the ankle. These cinch around your boots to help keep snow from flying up your pant legs. These keep your feet dry and can be used to roll up your pants so they don’t drag in the parking lot.

Venting

Although snowboard pants are meant to keep you warm, sometimes they do their job a little too well, and you may want some fresh air on your legs. High-quality snowboard pants have inner-thigh ventilation at the least, while many models offer ventilation at the crotch as well.

Articulated knees

Quality snowboard pants have articulate knees that leave you ample room to bend, crouch and squat while tearing down the slope. Snowboarders move their legs far more than skiers do and require extra space in the knee region.

Waterproofing

Snowboard pants are designed to keep you warm and dry. Some pants do a better job of this than others due to a higher waterproofing rating. Waterproofing is measured in millimeters, and a rating of 30,000 mm means that when the fabric has 30 meters of water on top of it, it will begin to leak. We recommend choosing a pair of pants with a rating of at least 15,000 mm.

How much you can expect to spend on snowboard pants

Good-quality snowboard pants start at around $120 and can cost upward of $275 for high-end models.

Snowboard pants FAQIs there a difference between ski and snowboard pants?

A. While many pants are equally capable of being used in both sports, there are slight differences between snowboarding and skiing-specific pants. Snowboard pants tend to have a baggier fit to allow the rider to crouch more.

How should snowboard pants fit?

A. If you like the oversized look and also prefer to wear thermal base layers, a baggier fit is going to serve you well. If you’re purchasing a pair of insulated snow pants, it’s best to choose a regular-fitting pair so air doesn’t sneak in and defeat the purpose of the insulation.

What’s the best pair of snowboard pants to buy?Top snowboard pants

Burton AK Cyclic Snow Pant

What you need to know: Burton AK is the company’s top-tier product line, and these pants include all the features you’d expect from a leader in the snowboard industry.

What you’ll love: These pants feature Burton’s signature double-layered Gore-Tex construction, which gives them an outstanding waterproof rating of 30,000 mm. Cyclic pants are built to withstand weeks of consecutive use, and they have the features to back it up. These pants include an insulated pocket for your phone, extensive thigh and crotch vents, reinforced scuff pads on the ankle, articulated knees, fully taped seams and even a pocket for binding wrenches.

What you should consider: These pants are quite expensive.

 

Top snowboard pants for the money

 

Airblaster Elastic Boss Snowboard Pants

What you need to know: These affordable pants are ideal for someone who wants a no-nonsense snowboard pant that keeps them dry and warm all day long.

What you’ll love: Airblaster got rid of all the fancy frills and focused on what really matters when designing these pants. The fabric has a high waterproof rating, there’s a built-in belt for easy adjustability, the knees and ankles have scuff reinforcements and the elastic cuffs form a tight seal with your boots.

What you should consider: These pants don’t have any insulation.

 

Worth checking out

 

Burton Avalon Bib Stretch Denim Snowboard Pants

What you need to know: The Avalon bib snowboard pants from Burton are made with quick-drying denim and have fully taped seams.

What you’ll love: These pants have a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm and a fleece-lined front pocket. It is mesh-lined and has a center back panel for extra stretch.

What you should consider: The bib on these pants is not removable.

 

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.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Nikola Jokic leads Nuggets past Warriors for Golden State’s fifth straight loss

DENVER — The Warriors put the Nuggets on the line 35 times and committed 10 second-half turnovers before they blew a late lead to Denver for their fifth straight loss.

Jonathan Kuminga (19 points) put together a strong all-around game, and the Warriors also got contributions from Moses Moody, Gary Payton II and Andrew Wiggins to earn a seven-point lead with four minutes left.

But when it was crunch time, The Joker got the last laugh.

Nikola Jokic, the three-time MVP, made every play down the stretch, helping Denver close the game out on an 11-0 run and finishing with 38 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and five steals. With 34 seconds left, he blocked Kuminga’s slashing attempt at the rim and then worked his way to the line for the game-sealing foul shots.

Steph Curry, the Warriors’ MVP counterpart, registered 24 points on 8-for-23 shooting. The Warriors scored six points in the last six minutes of the game, four of which came from Curry.

Without a full 48-minute performance, the Warriors (12-8) fell, 119-115, for their fifth consecutive loss. Tuesday being the last night of NBA Cup group stage play, the Warriors are in line to go on the road for a knockout matchup at Houston on Dec. 11.

“It was kind of a microcosm of our season when things haven’t gone our way,” Curry said after the loss. “Just trying to find go-to sets and options to put points on the board, to capitalize off a great game we played for 44 minutes. It’s tough.”

Steve Kerr was as frustrated as he’s been all season at the postgame podium, irate that none of the three officials saw Christian Braun try to call timeout with two seconds left. Braun had dove on a loose ball and appeared to signal for a timeout, which would have been a technical foul because the Nuggets had none left. Instead, it was ruled a jump ball and game over.

“Everybody saw it except for the three games we hired to do the games, and that makes me angry,” Kerr said. “That’s a technical foul, they don’t have a timeout left. We shoot a free throw, we get the ball and a chance to win the game. They all told me they didn’t see it.”

Before the game, Nuggets coach Michael Malone reminded his team that the Warriors, losers of four straight, were going to come out hungry. He was right; Golden State snacked early.

Kuminga, back in the starting lineup as Draymond Green (calf) was unavailable, scored nine points in his first eight minutes, including a double-pump dunk after slipping a ball screen.

To keep either Curry or Brandin Podziemski — or both — on the court at all times, Steve Kerr subbed out Curry first after five minutes. Although Kerr’s intended rotational tweaks will have to wait for Green to return, he trimmed his game plan to feature 10 players. Curry started and finished each quarter instead of his traditional subbing pattern.

“When you lose, you’ve got to experiment and try different things,” Curry said.

Curry blew by Russell Westbrook for a finger roll before the first-quarter horn, making it 33-31. He added four assists in the opening frame, which featured hot, 5-for-9 3-point shooting from Denver — including three makes from Aaron Gordon and another from Westbrook.

Without Green, the Warriors threw a variety of looks at Nikola Jokic in an effort to try to make him a passer. One play, they sent Andrew Wiggins to the block to double team, and Buddy Hield, the weak-side defender, anticipated his cross-court pass for a steal.

Golden State opened the second quarter on a 23-9 run, turning defensive stops into fast breaks. Their ball movement was beautiful, with Kuminga turning down two decent looks on one possession and displaying patience as Curry relocated into the corner before finding him for a 3. The Warriors assisted on 18 of their first 20 makes, with only one turnover.

But then the Nuggets — who have struggled defensively recently — started to turn the Warriors over, resulting in a 15-3 Denver run. Podziemski fouled Michael Porter Jr. on a 3-point shot, a mistake he repeated late in the fourth quarter.

More important than stifling the unstoppable Jokic, the Warriors dominated while the three-time MVP sat. By winning those minutes by 11, the Warriors came out of the halftime break in a tie game.

The Warriors played with the kind of force and energy Kerr has been seeking for the past two weeks. Podziemski dove on the court for a loose ball, igniting a fast break that resulted in an easy Kuminga layup.

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Even as Jokic, who averages 38 minutes per game, played the entire third quarter, the Warriors kept the game close. Kevon Looney played him tough in the post and Moody provided a nice burst at the end of the quarter off the bench, finding a cutting Payton for an assist and burying a baseline fadeaway.

But without Green, and as the turnover bug came for Curry, Golden State had trouble guarding the 3-point line. A 33-point third for Denver put the Nuggets up 90-85 entering the fourth.

Denver opened the fourth with Jokic sitting, giving the Warriors a window to make a run. Like clockwork, Golden State outscored Denver 10-2 in three minutes, a blitz punctuated by a Trayce Jackson-Davis transition slam.

When Jokic returned, the Warriors led 95-92. Three-pointers from Curry and Payton stretched the edge to seven with 7:50 left, and a Moody 3 made it 104-94 as Curry hit the bench for his scheduled rest. Eight fourth-quarter points from Moody helped them survive as Curry sat.

Upon his return, Curry found Kuminga for a dunk, then Kuminga nearly drew a charge against Jokic. Instead, replay review overturned the effort into an and-1, shaving Golden State’s advantage to five with 4:22 remaining.

From there, though, it was all Jokic. As the Warriors’ offense stalled, the center found Gordon for a dunk and hit a baby hook. When Looney fouled out with 1:48 left, the Warriors led 115-111, their ninth clutch game in the past 10 contests.

Jokic tied the game with a jumper over Curry, who was expecting a switch when the center picked up his dribble. Then he iced the game with a pair of free throws, keeling over with his hands on his knees after a 40-minute night. In a four-point win, the Nuggets won Jokic’s minutes by 23.

Had the officials correctly called the Braun play, the Warriors would’ve had a chance to tie the game. Instead, they didn’t get the ball back.

“With that said, that’s not why we lost,” Kerr said. “We lost because didn’t close again,” Kerr said.

Conquer the ice with these top hockey skates

Which ice hockey skate is best?

Ice hockey is a great sport to watch and play, but it’s not always easy to get started because it requires so much equipment. And trying to figure out which products to buy can be overwhelming for a newcomer.  

Choices may vary depending on your needs, but a top pick for the best ice hockey skate is the Bauer Unisex BTH20 Supreme S35 Senior Hockey Skate.

What to know before you buy ice hockey skatesPlay level

You not only want to consider how frequently you will use the skates when buying, but also consider the level you’re participating at since skates were designed with these considerations in mind.  

Recreational: If you’re young, just starting out or a casual player, you want to look for recreational skates. They are less expensive and more comfortable but not ideal for elite performers. These are the best skates to purchase if you’re learning. Performance: These skates are more supportive and have a stiffer boot than the recreational skates. They also last a little longer because they have exchangeable runners that allow you to replace the blades. Elite: If you play more than three times a week, you should be in the market for an elite skate. They provide more protection and are more durable, which is also why they are more expensive. Many elite skates are heat moldable and have one-piece boots. The better material also means they dry out quicker between uses. Fit typeTapered: These skates are more narrow and shallow than other models. This is the most popular model but definitely not ideal for those with wider feet. Contoured: These models are a little wider than the tapered fit but still have a firm heel that will provide a tight fit. Classic: These traditional skates are the widest of the three options. They have a flexible boot and a deeper heel but are not ideal for those with narrow feet. Size

Sizing can be tricky because sizes can vary between brands, but a good rule of thumb is to pick a skate that is one-and-a-half sizes smaller than your shoe size. You don’t want your skates to be uncomfortable, but if you pick a skate that is even slightly too big for your foot, you risk injury. 

What to look for in hockey skatesBlade material 

Stainless steel blades are the best quality and the most durable, but if you’re just starting out, they may be unnecessary and expensive. Newcomers purchasing recreational skates can save money with lower-grade steel blades. 

Blade profile

How curved your blade is will determine how much of the blade comes in contact with the ice. Smaller blade profiles (around 7 feet) allow for more speed and maneuverability than larger blade profiles (around 13 feet), which provide more stability but less mobility and speed. 

Runners

The runner is the steel portion of the skate that is attached below the boot. Higher quality and elite skates have exchangeable runners and blades, while most recreational skates have fixed runners and blades, which is one reason why they don’t typically last as long. 

Laces

You have two choices when it comes to laces: waxed or unwaxed. Waxed laces are preferred by experienced players because they make for a tighter fit, while unwaxed laces are ideal for newcomers because they make it easier to get the skates on and off. 

How much you can expect to spend on ice hockey skates?

Skate size and quality determine the price. Recreational skates for kids can be found for under $40, while more elite skates can go up to $900, but you can still find good quality skates in the $200 range.  

Best ice hockey skates FAQ How often should I sharpen my ice hockey skate blade?

A. This depends on the type of blade. While some like their blades extra sharp and sharpen them after every use, others will go substantially longer without sharpening their blades. The general rule is to sharpen blades after every 12 hours of skating time.

How long does a pair of ice hockey skates last? 

A. Skates can last up to eight years, depending on the frequency of use, how you care for them and the quality of skates purchased. 

What are the best ice hockey skates to buy?Top ice hockey skates

Bauer Unisex BTH20 Supreme S35 Senior Hockey Skate
What you need to know: Made by a trusted industry brand, these well-made skates are ideal for recreational play. 

What you’ll love: These comfortable skates are made with 3D poly carb quarter, making them flexible.  Their stainless steel blades are durable, and the mesh on the tongue makes them extra comfy.

What you should consider: These skates are not ideal for rough play.

 

Top ice hockey skates for the money

 

American Ice Force 2.0 Hockey Skate

What you need to know: Engineered for agility and optimal power, this ice hockey skate is perfect for beginner and intermediate skaters.

What you’ll love:  This budget-conscious skate offers a stainless steel blade, sidewall PVC injection molds and a breathable inner liner. These skates are ultra-durable for the spills, hits, and crashes that a young or beginner hockey player could endure while learning the ropes.

What you should consider: Customers have felt the skates tend to run on the smaller side and suggest going up one size. 

 

Worth checking out

 

American Athletic Shoe Co.bWomen’s American Soft Boot Hockey Skate

What you need to know: This is a great women’s recreational skate for non-competitive ice hockey. The extra padding provides warmth and comfort, while the multi-layer boot provides additional support. 

What you’ll love: These are fashionable and specifically designed for women. They’re inexpensive and great for a beginner who is just starting out. 

What you should consider: Some customers have found these skates uncomfortable and the sizing to be off compared to other skates.

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.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.

Kaiser Permanente leader, facility poised for January launch in Salinas

SALINAS – Dr. Sergio Gonzalez, chief of the Kaiser Permanente medical office building in Salinas, said the most important thing he wants is for the facility to be a place where everyone is treated like a family member and being taken care of to help them be more healthy, “because if we can prevent a disease, we can give someone the ability to enjoy their family member for a longer period of time.”

Gonzalez was on hand during a preview of the new 24,000-square-foot Salinas outpatient facility located at 1930 N Davis Rd., undergoing final touches before welcoming patients Jan. 2. The medical building is well-appointed, with an inviting, warm and healing interior, and reflects the investment the healthcare system has committed to the community.

This is Kaiser Permanente’s inaugural foray into the Monterey County market with the Salinas medical offices geared to provide members with a range of medical services including primary and specialty care, pediatrics, OB/GYN care, mental health care, laboratory, radiology and pharmacy services.

This is Kaiser Permanente’s inaugural foray into the Monterey County market with the Salinas medical offices geared to provide members with a range of medical services including primary and specialty care, pediatrics, OB/GYN care, mental health care, laboratory, radiology, and pharmacy services. (James Herrera/Monterey Herald)

Open enrollment is still happening, said Gonzalez, so he did not have the number of new members that have selected Kaiser Permanente, but there are 5,000 existing members from places such as Watsonville, Hollister and Gilroy, who may prefer to come to Salinas for their care.

The physician leader for the Salinas medical offices and his team are poised to hit the ground running come January and ready to accommodate and adjust for those numbers which will include those recently signed-up.

“We’re here to work with the community and make partnerships with everybody,” said Gonzalez. “We’re here to provide a model that patients have an option to choose. We’re not here to take anyone over, we’re just a model to provide improvement of the health care provision to the community.”

Kaiser Permanente says it is recognized as a health care industry leader in the nation and in California for providing high-quality, affordable and equitable health care to members and patients. In response to demand from members and prospective members, Kaiser Permanente is increasing community health care access in northern Monterey County by offering its high-quality, integrated coverage and exceptional medical care to residents.

The Salinas medical office will provide residents with a range of primary and specialty care services, but hospital-based care and services will be offered through Watsonville Community Hospital which Kaiser Permanente has partnered with since 2017.

“Its a great working relationship, so that’s who we’ll be using in the long term, and then we have some relationship with Natividad for emergency services for our patients to go there for emergency services should they be needed,” said Gonzalez.

“There are negotiations that are ongoing, so in the not-too-distant future we should see what we can establish,” he said.

Kaiser Permanente has hospitals such as Salinas Valley Health and Natividad medical center, that would be great to partner with, he said.

“We should be able to make working relationships that will favor everybody,” said Gonzalez.

As for being selected physician leader for the Kaiser Permanente Salinas medical offices, Gonzalez said the decision was desirable because he gets to design, cater, and set the mood or the flavor of the facility.

“If you’re familiar with Kaiser, we have centers, and every center is unique in its own way,” said Gonzalez. “We provide the same brand and integrated care, but every one has its own flavor, and that collegiality, that’s unique to each one. I want to create that so that we have that family feel so that when patients come in they know that.

Gonzalez said he wants for patients to be able to think, “hey I’m going with that family member who will take care of me and advise me about how to stay healthy.”

The new Kaiser Permanente medical offices in Salinas will probably be seeing about 150 to 200 patients a day to start with.

“We’re filling 70 positions but some of those are part-time coverage so that’s why we have 92” employees counting doctors, nurses and other staff, said Gonzalez. “It takes a village.”

The new facility will have 10 doctors in the beginning, but if the medical office builds up to capacity, that number could increase to about 18, each doctor seeing 20 patients per day and swelling the number served to about 360.

Chad Chronister, Donald Trump’s pick to run the DEA, withdraws name from consideration

By MICHELLE L. PRICE

NEW YORK (AP) — Chad Chronister, Donald Trump’s pick to run the Drug Enforcement Administration, said Tuesday he was withdrawing his name from consideration, becoming the second person selected by the president-elect to bow out quickly after being nominated for a position requiring Senate confirmation.

Sheriff Chronister, the top law enforcement officer in Hillsborough County, Florida, said in a post on X that he was backing away from the opportunity, which he called “the honor of a lifetime.”

“Over the past several days, as the gravity of this very important responsibility set in, I’ve concluded that I must respectfully withdraw from consideration,” Chronister wrote. He did not elaborate, and Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.

Chronister follows former Republican congressman Matt Gaetz, Trump’s first pick to serve as attorney general, in withdrawing his name for a post in the administration. Gaetz withdrew following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation’s chief federal law enforcement officer.

Trump’s pick of Chronister for the DEA job drew backlash from conservatives, who raised concerns over his actions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his saying that his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities.”

In March 2020, Chronister arrested the pastor of a megachurch who held services with hundreds of people and violated a safer-at-home order in place aimed at limiting the spread of the Covid virus.

“Shame on this pastor, their legal staff and the leaders of this staff for forcing us to do our job. That’s not what we wanted to do during a declared state of emergency,” Chronister said at the time. “We are hopeful that this will be a wakeup call.”

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky, was among those airing public complaints, saying Chronister should be “disqualified” for the arrest.

Others flagged comments Chronister made in a video about Florida’s immigration laws that he released in 2023 that circulated again online after Trump named him last weekend.

Related ArticlesNational Politics | Trump team signs agreement to allow Justice to conduct background checks on nominees, staff National Politics | President-elect Donald Trump’s lawyers urge judge to toss his hush money conviction National Politics | Democrats stick with Schumer as leader, their strategy for countering Trump is far less certain National Politics | Trump vows to block Japanese steelmaker from buying US Steel, pledges tax incentives and tariffs National Politics | Democrats’ outgoing chair says Trump’s win forces party to reassess how it reaches voters In the video, Chronister praised the “rich diversity” of his community and called it “a place where people from all walks of life come together.”

He said it was important to note his office “does not engage in federal immigration enforcement activities. We do not target individuals based on their immigration status. That’s the authority of federal agencies.”

Trump has made a sweeping crackdown on immigration a central focus of his campaign and his aims for his coming administration.

Associated Press writer Adriana Gomez Licon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida contributed to this report.

Sheriff Nieto names new chief deputy of Monterey County Corrections Operations

Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto welcomed Sheriff Timothy Lanquist as the new Corrections Operations Bureau Chief Deputy earlier this week. Lanquist, a public service official for the past 29 years, will overlook the Monterey County Jail operations.

Lanquist earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the United States Naval Academy and a Master of Science in Operations Research from the Naval Postgraduate School. He climbed the ranks of the U.S. Navy, attaining a rank of Lieutenant as has served in various management and leadership roles throughout his career, according to a press release announcing his hiring.

“(Lanquist) brings years of corrections experience and will be a tremendous asset to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office,” said Nieto in the news release. “Please join me in welcoming (him) to the Monterey County family and to each of our local communities.”

Working in Southern California for nearly three decades, Lanquist was a Captain at the Venture County Sheriff’s Office. He served as an Internal Affairs Investigator, Major Crimes Sexual Assault Investigator, Todd Road Jail Facility Manager among various other roles within the force.

​​“I am excited to be back in Monterey County after 23 years,” said Lanquist. “I look forward to bringing new and innovative ideas to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office and the Monterey County Jail. I am fortunate to be able to join an amazing team and I look forward to serving the residents of Monterey County.”

Lanquist’ last assignment was as the East County Patrol Captain where he overlooked “daily operations of patrol resources” for the City of Thousand Oaks. Lanquist had a tenure in Corrections Operations and was responsible for the agency’ $130 million budget. He implemented personnel and operational changes that helped “maximize productivity, efficiency and morale.”

During his involvement in Corrections Operations, Lanquist was also the primary liaison for a multidisciplinary correctional health care team, according to the news release. He was the contract negotiator and manager for a $100 million medical contract with “innovative standards and performance-based cost recovery controls.”

Through the Corrections Operations Bureau, Lanquist will oversee the Jail Administration, Compliance, Jail Operations, Receiving & Release Divisions. The Bureau also overlooks Jail Support Services.

Monday’s swearing in was informal. A formal ceremony is tentatively scheduled for next month, where Lanquist will be officially introduced to the community.

Trump’s FBI pick has plans to reshape the bureau. This is what Kash Patel has said he wants to do

By ERIC TUCKER, Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — Kash Patel has been well-known for years within Donald Trump’s orbit as a loyal supporter who shares the president-elect’s skepticism of the FBI and intelligence community. But he’s receiving fresh attention, from the public and from Congress, now that Trump has picked him to lead the FBI.

As he braces for a bruising and likely protracted Senate confirmation fight, Patel can expect scrutiny not only over his professed fealty to Trump but also for his belief — revealed over the last year in interviews and his own book — that the century-old FBI should be radically overhauled.

Here’s a look at some of what he’s proposed for the nation’s premier federal law enforcement agency. How much of it he’d actually follow through on is a separate question.

He’s mused about shutting down the FBI’s Washington headquarters

The first FBI employees moved into the current Pennsylvania Avenue headquarters 50 years ago. The building since then has housed the supervisors and leaders who make decisions affecting offices around the country and overseas.

But if Patel has his way, the J. Edgar Hoover Building could be shut down, with its employees dispersed.

“I’d shut down the FBI Hoover Building on day one and reopen it the next day as a museum of the ‘deep state,’” Patel said in a September interview on the “Shawn Kelly Show.” “Then, I’d take the 7,000 employees that work in that building and send them across America to chase down criminals. Go be cops. You’re cops — go be cops.”

Such a plan would undoubtedly require legal, logistical and bureaucratic hurdles and it may reflect more of a rhetorical flourish than a practical ambition.

In a book last year titled, “Government Gangsters: The Deep State, the Truth and the Battle for Our Democracy,” he proposed a more modest reform of having the headquarters moved out of Washington “to prevent institutional capture and curb FBI leadership from engaging in political gamesmanship.”

As it happens, the long-term fate of the building is in flux regardless of the leadership transition. The General Services Administration last year selected Greenbelt, Maryland, as the site for a new headquarters, but current FBI Director Christopher Wray has raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest in the site selection process.

He’s talked about finding ‘conspirators’ in the government and media

In an interview last year with conservative strategist Steve Bannon, Patel repeated falsehoods about President Joe Biden and a stolen election.

“We’re going to come after the people in the media who lied about American citizens, who helped Joe Biden rig presidential elections,” Patel said. The same applies for supposed “conspirators” inside the federal government, he said.

FILE — Kash Patel, former chief of staff to Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller, speaks at a rally in Minden, Nev., Oct. 8, 2022. (AP Photo/José Luis Villegas, File)

It’s not entirely clear what he envisions, but to the extent Patel wants to make it easier for the government to crack down on officials who disclose sensitive information and the reporters who receive it, it sounds like he’d back a reversal of current Justice Department policy that generally prohibits prosecutors from seizing the records of journalists in leak investigations.

That policy was implemented in 2021 by Attorney General Merrick Garland following an uproar over the revelation that the Justice Department during the Trump administration had obtained phone records of reporters as part of investigations into who had disclosed government secrets.

Patel himself has said that it’s yet to be determined whether such a crackdown would be done civilly or criminally. His book includes several pages of former officials from the FBI, Justice Department and other federal agencies he’s identified as being part of the “Executive Branch Deep State.”

Under the FBI’s own guidelines, criminal investigations can’t be rooted in arbitrary or groundless speculation but instead must have an authorized purpose to detect or interrupt criminal activity.

And while the FBI conducts investigations, the responsibility of filing federal charges, or bringing a lawsuit on behalf of the federal government, falls to the Justice Department. Trump intends to nominate former Florida attorney general Pam Bondi as attorney general.

He wants ‘major, major’ surveillance reform

Patel has been a fierce critic of the FBI’s use of its surveillance authorities under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, and in his “Shawn Kelly Show” interview, called for “major, major reform. Tons.”

That position aligns him with both left-leaning civil libertarians who have long been skeptical of government power and Trump supporters outraged by well-documented surveillance missteps during the FBI’s investigation into potential ties between Russia and Trump’s 2016 campaign.

But it sets him far apart from FBI leadership, which has stressed the need for the bureau to retain its ability to spy on suspected spies and terrorists even while also implementing corrective steps meant to correct past abuses.

If confirmed, Patel would take over the FBI amid continued debate over a particularly contentious provision of FISA known as Section 702, which permits the U.S. to collect without a warrant the communications of non-Americans located outside the country for the purpose of gathering foreign intelligence.

Biden in April signed a two-year extension of the authority following a fierce congressional dispute centered on whether the FBI should be restricted from using the program to search for Americans’ data. Though the FBI boasts a high compliance rate, analysts have been blamed for a series of abuses and mistakes, including improperly querying the intelligence repository for information about Americans or others in the U.S., including a member of Congress and participants in the racial justice protests of 2020 and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.

Patel has made clear his disdain for the reauthorization vote.

“Because the budget of FISA was up this cycle, we demanded Congress fix it. And do you know what the majority in the House, where the Republicans did? They bent the knee. They (reauthorized) it,” Patel said.

In his book, Patel said a federal defender should be present to argue for the rights of the accused at all FISA court proceedings, a departure from the status quo.

He has called for reducing the size of the intelligence community

Patel has advocated cutting the federal government’s intelligence community, including the CIA and National Security Agency.

When it comes to the FBI, he said last year that he would support breaking off the bureau’s “intel shops” from the rest of its crime-fighting activities.

It’s not clear exactly how he would intend to do that given that the FBI’s intelligence-gathering operations form a core part of the bureau’s mandate and budget. Wray, who’s been in the job for seven years, has also recently warned of a heightened threat environment related to international and domestic terrorism.

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After the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, then-FBI Director Robert Mueller faced down calls from some in Congress who thought the FBI should be split up, with a new domestic intelligence agency created in its wake.

The idea died, and Mueller committed new resources into transforming what for decades had been primarily a domestic law enforcement agency into an intelligence-gathering institution equally focused on combating terrorism, spies and foreign threats.

Frank Montoya Jr., a retired senior FBI official who served as the U.S. government’s national counterintelligence executive, said he disagreed with the idea of breaking out the FBI’s “intel shops” and viewed it as a way to defang the bureau.

Doing so, he said, “makes the bureau less effective at what it does, and quite frankly, it will make the intelligence community less effective at what it does.”

Draymond Green likely to miss big matchup against Denver

DENVER — Draymond Green is officially listed as questionable, but Steve Kerr considers him doubtful to play on Tuesday night against the Nuggets, priming the defensive ace to miss his first game of the season.

Green, 34, is dealing with tightness in his left calf. His likely absence against the Nuggets, in the Warriors’ final NBA Cup group stage game, will stunt the team’s pending rotation changes and complicate their game plan against MVP favorite Nikola Jokic.

“He’s been amazing every day, engaged at practice, working with Rick (Celebrini) in the training room, the weight room,” head coach Steve Kerr said Monday at the Warriors’ practice at Ball Arena. “He’s got himself in really good shape…Doubtful tomorrow, we’ll see how he holds up. This is what it’s going to be with our team at this point in Draymond and Steph (Curry’s) respective careers. Got to try to keep their minutes down the best we can, try to keep them healthy by being proactive. If they’re dealing with nagging injuries, like Steph’s knees last week and like Draymond’s calf now, we’ve got to manage it all.”

Green has been the biggest reason the Warriors’ defense is tied for fourth in defensive rating. Golden State has made that end of their court its identity, and its helped them to their current 12-7 record.

While averaging 8.8 points, 6.0 assists and 6.2 rebounds per game, Green has also shot a career-best 40.3% on 3s. He has also avoided serious trouble after his on-court behavior last year caused significant turbulence.

“Draymond’s been fantastic,” Kerr said. “This is all part of it, especially as guys get a little older.”

Similar to Curry, who missed four games due to injuries, Green is playing a little under 30 minutes per game (28.5).

“We plan for him to play 32 minutes every game,” Kerr said. “I’d like to keep that pretty consistent, and I think that makes the most sense long-term. I know everybody cheering for us wants us to play him more. But I’ve always had the big picture in mind. Including the COVID season — I think I said something about chasing wins that got me in trouble. But look, I had Steph’s career in mind back then. We are in the business of keeping Steph Curry healthy long-term.”

The team’s conscientious handling of Curry has worked. Golden State wasn’t going anywhere in the COVID year Kerr mentioned, then they won the title two years later with Curry staying on the court for much of the season. The Warriors will also carefully manage Green, who only plays intense — and often physical — minutes.

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Without Green, the Warriors will have an even tougher time contending with Jokic. Kyle Anderson, who defended the three-time NBA MVP quite a bit with the Timberwolves during their Western Conference Semifinals series against the Nuggets last season, will likely get a fair amount of playing time. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis will also certainly factor into the Warriors’ defensive plans.

“Coach always says just to make it tough on him,” Jackson-Davis said. “But really, what we want to take away is his passing. Getting his assists, getting his teammates involved. We know he’s going to score, he’s taken it upon himself a lot this year especially to be a scorer. If we can take away some of his guys, obviously double, do what we need to do — it’s going to be a hard, physical game.”

For the 10-8 Nuggets, Jokic is scoring a career-high 29.6 points while adding 10.7 assists and a league-best 13.2 rebounds per game.

The Warriors have already secured their group in the NBA Cup. If they beat the Nuggets on Tuesday, they’ll almost certainly host an NBA Cup quarterfinal game at the Chase Center. If they lose, they’ll likely go on the road for that knockout game, with a 3-1 Cup record and a slim point differential.

The Warriors have openly talked about wanting to win the NBA Cup — and associated prize money — but managing their moving pieces is arguably more relevant. Amid their four straight losses, Kerr and the coaching staff have evaluated tape and statistics on how to adjust their bloated, 13-man rotation.

Those changes will come, but not for the Denver game. Green’s status puts that topic temporarily on the back-burner.

“With Draymond’s injury and him likely being out, it changes everything we’ve studied the last day and on the plane,” Kerr said. “What we’re trying to find is combinations that click.”

Clipboard: Hunter, Byrne college football bowl bound for Cal

Nyziah Hunter and J.T. Byrne will be casted into the spotlight along with the rest of the Cal football team after it qualified for a bowl game after beating Stanford last week.

Hunter had four catches for 61 yards in the ‘Big Game’, while Byrne saw action on special teams and when Cal went to multiple tight end formations.

A Salinas High graduate, Hunter has caught 35 passes this fall as a redshirt freshman for just under 500 yards and a team high five touchdowns for Bears.

Hunter, who holds the Salinas High school record in the 100 meters, is eighth in the ACC in touchdown catches and No. 24 in receiving yards.

For Byrne, the Herald’s Athlete of the Year in 2021 and Player of the Year in basketball in 2020, this will be his fourth straight bowl game appearance, having appeared in two at Oregon State before transferring to Cal in 2023.

Hunter collected 58 catches for over 1,000 yards and 16 touchdowns as a senior at Salinas in 2022, while Byrne caught 48 passes as a junior at Carmel in 2020, while throwing for 580 yards, accounting for 17 touchdowns.

Johnson seeing significant time in BYU’s secondary

Redshirt sophomore Evan Johnson has seen action in 10 of Brigham Young University’s first 11 games this season, as he is seeing significant time in the defensive backfield.

The county record holder in the 100-meter dash, Johnson has 13 tackles on the season, along with an interception, one quarterback hurry and two pass breakups for the bowl bound 9-2 Cougars.

Johnson, who excelled in four sports as a senior at Stevenson, earning The Herald’s Male Athlete of the Year honor in 2022, had a season high three tackles in a win over SMU.

The 6-foot, 180-pound Johnson has also been used as a punt returner for BYU, who is ranked 19th in the nation and sits in a tie in the Big 12 for first with Arizona State, Iowa State and Colorado.

Johnson earned all-county honors in the basketball and football for Stevenson, and was a CCS champion in the 100- and 200-meter sprints, finishing fourth in the state in the 100. He also helped the baseball program to its first league title in 41 years.

Johnson’s older brother Wesley, is a defensive graduate assistant coach for the Cougars. His father Ron, was a receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles in the 1980’s.

Cortez-Menjivar making the most of opportunities on the football field at Idaho

The explosiveness of Emmerson Cortez-Menjivar has been on display this fall at the University of Idaho, as the receiver has turned 10 catches into four touchdowns.

The former Salinas High multi-sport standout has caught at least one pass in six of the 10 games the redshirt freshman has played in this year, including a college career best 41-yard touchdown pass last week.

The Vandals have attempted to get the fleet Cortez-Menjivar more touches, as he has carried the ball at least once on jet sweeps in eight games this season rushing for 84 yards. He’s also returned two kickoffs this fall.

A state track and field meet participant in the triple jump as a junior at Salinas High, Cortez-Menjivar caught 48 passes for 900 yards in 2022 for the Cowboys and led the team in interceptions with five in earning a spot on The Herald’s all-county defensive team.

A teammate of Cortez-Menjivar is former Monterey defensive back Isiah Bivins, who is being redshirted.

Another honor for CSUMB’s Limon on the soccer field

Jennifer Limon is piling up the hardware this fall for the Cal State Monterey Bay women’s soccer team, as she was named to the Division II Conference Commissioners Association West Region first team.

The California Collegiate Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year, the senior defender logged a team high 1,676 minutes this season for the Otters, helping them to their first ever CCAA tournament.

Limon also produced a goal and an assist for the Otters, whose defense shutout nine opponents. CSUMB also set a school record for ties this past fall with eight, allowing .63 goals a match.

Prior to arriving at CSUMB, Limon led Cabrillo College to a pair of Coast Conference soccer titles.

Coaches needed

Marina is looking for a varsity boys volleyball coach and a varsity baseball coach. Go to www.edjoin.org/MPUSD.

Seaside is looking for head coaches for varsity baseball, softball and boys and girls swimming. Contact athletic director Steven Vasquez at stvasquez.mpusd.k.12.ca.us

Salinas is looking for head coaches in boys’ volleyball and field hockey. Go to https://salinashscowboysathletics.com

Officials needed

Peninsula Sports Incorporate is looking for high school and middle school officials for all sports this season. Varsity officials are paid $100 a game. There is an immediate need for officials in the winter for boys’ and girls’ basketball, soccer and wrestling. Training is provided. Call Tom Emery at (831) 241-1101.