Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 324

Republicans say they’re appealing a Georgia judge’s ruling that invalidates seven election rules

By KATE BRUMBACK and JEFF AMY

ATLANTA (AP) — National and state Republicans on Thursday appealed a judge’s ruling that said seven election rules recently passed by Georgia’s State Election Board are “illegal, unconstitutional and void.”

The Republican National Committee and the Georgia Republican Party are appealing a ruling from Fulton County Superior Court Judge Thomas Cox, who ruled Wednesday that the State Election Board did not have the authority to pass the rules and ordered it to immediately inform all state and local election officials that the rules are void and not to be followed.

The rules that Cox invalidated include three that had gotten a lot of attention — one that requires that the number of ballots be hand-counted after the close of polls and two that had to do with the certification of election results.

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“By overturning the Georgia State Election Board’s commonsense rules passed to safeguard Georgia’s elections, the judge sided with the Democrats in their attacks on transparency, accountability, and the integrity of our elections,” Whatley said. “We have immediately appealed this egregious order to ensure commonsense rules are in place for the election — we will not let this stand.”

The ruling came in a lawsuit filed by Eternal Vigilance Action, an organization founded and led by former state Rep. Scot Turner, a Republican. The suit argued that the State Election Board overstepped its authority in adopting the rules.

The ruling was hailed as a victory by Democrats and voting rights groups, who say rules the State Election Board has passed in recent months could be used by allies of Donald Trump to cast doubt on results if the former president loses the presidential election to Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. Recent appointments to the five-member board have put three Trump-endorsed Republicans in the majority. They have passed new rules over the objections of the board’s lone Democrat and the nonpartisan chair.

County election officials from around the state — the people who run the elections — have voiced concerns over the flood of new rules taking effect so close to Election Day.

The other rules Cox said are illegal and unconstitutional are ones that: require someone delivering an absentee ballot in person to provide a signature and photo ID; demand video surveillance and recording of ballot drop boxes after polls close during early voting; expand the mandatory designated areas where partisan poll watchers can stand at tabulation centers; and require daily public updates of the number of votes cast during early voting.

County officials give department updates in webinar

Monterey County officials hosted a webinar on Wednesday focused on the county’s budget priorities and current challenges, following the Board of Supervisors recent unanimous vote to enact a hiring freeze on positions funded by the general fund’s discretionary revenue. Department heads also took time to give an update on their staff and current projects and what some of their goals for the next year are.

Assistant County Administrative Officer Ezequiel Vega broke down how the county’s budget process works and where the money is allocated to. The largest portions county-wide budget included $886.8 million in the general fund, $426.5 million for Natividad Medical Center and $172.6 million for behavioral health.

“The majority of the services provided to the community come out of the general fund,” Vega said.

There was a break down of the general fund budget, with 32% of the budget being for social services, 19% for the Sheriff’s Office and 18% for health to name a few. Vega also specified that most of the funding is not discretionary, or able to be directed on by the Board of Supervisors.

“For example in social services and the health department, that is programmed revenue and that is specifically funded by revenue received from clinics, insurance companies and Medi-Cal,” Vega said. “The Board of Supervisors receives approximately 300 million out of the 800 million in discretionary revenue.”

Using $1 as representation of how taxes are broken down, county officials say county residents pay 41 cents to health and sanitation, 28 cents to public safety management, 18 cents to public assistance, 10 cents to government administration, two cents to recreations and culture and one cent to education.

Supervisor Glenn Church listed out the county’s top five budget priorities this year including road and infrastructure repairs, water and sewage projects, parks projects, essential county services and programs like housing affordability and healthcare and public safety management.

Church also gave an update on Measure AA, which will be on the ballot for voters living in unincorporated Monterey County.

If passed, it will increase the sales tax in unincorporated Monterey County by 1%, making it more inline with the tax rates in the cities and neighboring counties. Currently, unincorporated Monterey County has one of the lowest tax rates in the area.

“Because the sales tax only affects unincorporated residents, only unincorporated voters can vote on it,” Church said. “The Board also directed that these sales tax revenues should stay for services in unincorporated Monterey County. Although these funds will go into the general fund, a special account will be created so those revenues can be tracked and transparent.”

Greenfield Commons to bring 200 affordable units to Salinas Valley

SALINAS – A permanently-affordable housing project by EAH Housing in southern Monterey County will provide 200 units to low-income and farmworker families in its dual-phase project that uses modular construction.

EAH Housing is a nonprofit corporation that started in 1968 and has become one of the largest housing development and management organizations in the western United States.

EAH Housing’s Greenfield Commons construction is now focused on phase two of its dual-phased project with phase one being recently completed. The project started in June 2023, and the estimated completion date is 2025. Greenfield Commons is EAH’s first modular construction development and cost about a total of $147 million to develop.

“This development is a stepping stone toward greater inclusivity and support for those who call Greenfield home, specifically our local farmworkers and veterans,” said Chris Lopez, Supervisor of Monterey County, in a press release. “We appreciate their contributions to our local community and recognize that this city would not be the same without them. Through Greenfield Commons, we aim to express our gratitude and admiration for their invaluable contributions to our community by addressing their housing needs.”

Families in the local agriculture sector and veterans referred through the Veterans Administration, earning 30% to 70% of the area’s median income can qualify for Greenfield Commons housing which will be permanently affordable.

The development is consistent with the city of Greenfield’s Housing Element and with the EAH goal to create community by developing, managing and promoting quality affordable housing in the Salinas Valley.

“This project represents more than just the addition of affordable housing; it embodies our dedication to creating vibrant, sustainable communities that honor the hard work of our local agricultural workforce and the contributions of our veterans,” said Laura Hall, CEO of EAH Housing, in the release. “Through innovative construction techniques and sustainable building practices, we are dedicated to creating a community that caters to the housing needs of the Greenfield community.”

Greenfield Commons will feature “garden-style” apartments which are characterized by green space surrounding multiple smaller buildings. The property is situated on nearly 11 acres and will consist of 8 two-story residential buildings in multiple configurations of one-, two- and three-bedroom unit clusters.

Phase one includes 32 one-bedroom, 44 two-bedroom, and 24 three-bedroom units, while phase two includes 26 one-bedroom, 32 two-bedroom and 42 three-bedroom units.

Greenfield Commons will feature a community building located at the northwestern corner of the property, which will house an afterschool learning center, a community room and a fitness room, according to EAH Housing. Additional amenities include on-site resources such as wellness programs, laundry and parking, a resource coordinator and a management office. The project will also feature a recreation and play area, indoor and outdoor common areas and a community garden.

Innovative modular design is at the forefront of Greenfield Commons, according to EAH Housing. Partnering with Natasha Builders, the residential units are crafted offsite using modular construction techniques. Fully completed in the factory, the modules will be transported to the site and installed. Under the guidance of Swinerton and Proset, they’ll be efficiently stacked in place, ensuring seamless integration with ongoing site and foundation work.

(EAH Housing)

“By building residential units in a controlled factory environment and stacking them onsite, we not only expedite the construction process but also minimize waste and environmental impact,” said Welton Jordan, chief real estate development officer at EAH Housing, in the release. “We’ve already begun to witness the benefits of this innovative building process throughout the construction planning process of Greenfield Commons I and II and are pleased with the anticipated building efficiency thus far.”

Both phases of this project are pursuing LEED Gold Certification and are designed to offset 100% of the property’s energy consumption with on-site renewable sources.

EAH Housing is also the developer of Lightfighter Village in Marina, a three-story, 71-unit housing structure on 2.3 acres that would give homeless veterans a place to live in perpetuity with no transitional requirements while they continue to receive case management and access to support services.

EAH develops affordable housing, manages over 240 properties in California and Hawaii, and plays a leadership role in local, regional and national housing advocacy efforts. EAH Housing now serves more than 25,000 seniors, families, veterans, students, people with special needs and the formerly unhoused.

Ahead of preseason finale, Warriors still have too many players

SAN FRANCISCO — On the eve of the Warriors’ preseason finale, which they consider a dress rehearsal for the regular season, head coach Steve Kerr still has an unsettled rotation — both in the starting lineup and behind it.

Kerr has said this is the deepest team he has coached in Golden State, in terms of sheer NBA-quality players. The team goes 13 deep, with Moses Moody, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney and Lindy Waters III each duking it out for playing time at the end of the bench. They’ve each proven themselves to be rotational players in the NBA, but cracking the 10-man rotation isn’t easy.

“Roster-wise, we haven’t made any decisions on the back end, but we feel like we have a pretty good handle on our team,” Kerr said on Thursday, after what he and others deemed their best practice of the preseason.

The Warriors have used five distinct starting lineups in each of their five preseason games, going 5-0 while experimenting with different combinations. None of them have jumped off the page, but each provides hints at the team’s thinking.

In the four games Draymond Green has played, he has started three of them next to a traditional center (either Trayce Jackson-Davis or Kevon Looney). With the Warriors’ priority of improving defensively and keeping Green’s small-ball five minutes down, they appear to be leaning toward that frontcourt setup.

With Green and a center, plus Steph Curry, that leaves two spots on the wing left uncertain.

De’Anthony Melton has looked great in his minutes next to Curry, and he practiced in full on Thursday after back tightness held him out of Tuesday’s game. Brandin Podziemski has experience with Curry, is their best secondary ball-handler and led the team in rebounding last year. Andrew Wiggins is the team’s best point-of-attack defender but is coming off a down year and an interrupted preseason. Jonathan Kuminga has shot the ball well from 3-point land and has the highest upside on the roster, but still struggles to make an impact defensively and on the glass.

Four players for two spots. Kerr made a point to turn this training camp and preseason into an open competition for roles, but he likely would have hoped the contest played itself out by now.

“The worst part is telling three — at least two, maybe three — very worthy rotation players that they’re not in the plans that night,” Kerr said. “The best part is when some of those guys aren’t available and you can still play with depth. And try to play the way we’re playing: feisty defensively, running. We have the depth to do that in the season. But it’s no fun telling guys, especially guys who have earned it…we have 13 players who have earned a spot in the rotation.”

In Golden State’s most recent preseason contest, agains the Lakers on Tuesday, they started the jumbo lineup of Curry, Wiggins, Kuminga, Green and Jackson-Davis. There are clear issues with that unit. Outside of Curry, there’s no one reliable to bring the ball up against pressure. In the half court, there’s not enough spacing to run pick-and-rolls and many traditional sets.

But the group has a lot of athleticism and defensive versatility. If they can play up-tempo, like they did Tuesday, it can be viable for stretches.

“If you play that lineup and get deflections and rebounds, and you get out and run, then the ball starts to move and you can have a lot of success,” Kerr said.

It’s possible the Warriors use that lineup for certain matchups, and a different for others. It’s also possible they start one lineup and pull the center after a few minutes to go small, which they’ve done for stretches in the past.

A more balanced lineup would have either Podziemski or Melton next to Curry in the backcourt instead of Wiggins, who’s a natural small forward. If Golden State uses that formula, the battle becomes either Wiggins or Kuminga at the three.

Wiggins missed two weeks of preseason and training camp with an illness, but came into camp in great shape and is conditioned to play normal minutes. The organization has high hopes for him coming of the worst statistical season of his career. Kuminga, who’s eligible for a rookie extension, has shot 47.6% from behind the 3-point arc in five games and is key to getting out in transition. But he has frequently looked lost in defensive rotations and has made several poor closeouts resulting in blow-bys.

The competitions, and uncertainty remain ongoing.

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“It’s pushing our team to be better,” Looney said of the playing-time battles. “Everybody knows you have to compete to play. It’s kind of breeding the physicality and the pace and every way we want to play. We’re doing it in practice and I think it’s transferring over.”

No one has impressed more than Moody, who has averaged 15.8 points in 20.4 minutes per game on high volume and excellent efficiency. He prioritized outside shooting and movement this summer, and it has paid off.

Moody doesn’t appear to be in the mix for the starting five, but his role will determine just how much of a meritocracy Kerr’s open competition really is. He could be the odd-man out of the rotation like he has been in the past, but he has proven himself worthy of real minutes as a two-way wing with more off-the-bounce juice than previously thought.

Friday night’s preseason finale against the Lakers in the Chase Center will be the biggest hint yet — for Moody, for the starters and the back-end of the rotation.

“We know the next one counts after this,” Kerr said. “So let’s be sharp with the stuff we’ve been teaching. The rotations defensively, the coverages defensively, and then getting into our stuff with precision and force. I loved the running the other night. Make or miss, we really pushed the ball well early in the game. And I thought that set a tone. I just want to see more of that, and we’ll continue to address the mistakes that are inevitably made. Clean that up. But I think we’re in a good position to be ready for that Portland game on Wednesday night.”

Notable

— The Warriors held their annual open practice on Wednesday night at Chase Center, with roughly 13,000 fans in attendance. They continued the tradition of rookie karaoke, and Trayce Jackson-Davis (who sang Beyonce’s “Halo” last year) said Quinten Post’s rendition of “Don’t Stop Believin’” was his favorite.

Other highlights were player development coach Noel Hightower’s “Can’t Believe It” by T-Pain and Reece Beekman’s “Love” by Keyshia Cole.

— Also at the team’s open practice, Brandin Podziemski earned the $10,000 purse from Steph Curry for winning the half-court shot contest. He was the only one who hit two half-courters, and he added a full-court heave right after winning just for fun.

Blake Hinson, Kyle Anderson and an underhanded Steve Kerr each hit one half-court shot. The team likes to do those competitions sporadically throughout the season to keep things light.

— To drop 20 pounds this summer, Kevon Looney changed not what, but when he ate. Working with a nutritionist, Looney fasted until roughly 4 or 5 p.m., going through his morning and afternoon workouts — sprints, lifting, 5-on-5 work — on just a cup of coffee.

Looney is considerably trim now, which should help him be more nimble on both ends; he has hit a midrange jumper in just about every preseason game so far. Fasting will be more difficult during the regular season, but he’s confident he can maintain his current playing weight of around 260 pounds.

TikTok let through disinformation in political ads despite its own ban, Global Witness finds

By BARBARA ORTUTAY, AP Technology Writer

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Just weeks before the U.S. presidential election, TikTok approved advertisements that contained election disinformation even though it has a ban on political ads, according to a report published Thursday by the nonprofit Global Witness.

The technology and environmental watchdog group submitted ads that it designed to test how well systems at social media companies work in detecting different types of election misinformation.

The group, which did a similar investigation two years ago, did find that the companies — especially Facebook — have improved their content-moderation systems since then.

But it called out TikTok for approving four of the eight ads submitted for review that contained falsehoods about the election. That’s despite the platform’s ban on all political ads in place since 2019.

The ads never appeared on TikTok because Global Witness pulled them before they went online.

“Four ads were incorrectly approved during the first stage of moderation, but did not run on our platform,” TikTok spokesman Ben Rathe said. “We do not allow political advertising and will continue to enforce this policy on an ongoing basis.”

Facebook, which is owned by Meta Platforms Inc., “did much better” and approved just one of the eight submitted ads, according to the report.

In a statement, Meta said while “this report is extremely limited in scope and as a result not reflective of how we enforce our policies at scale, we nonetheless are continually evaluating and improving our enforcement efforts.”

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Google did not immediately respond to a message for comment.

Companies nearly always have stricter policies for paid ads than they do for regular posts from users. The ads submitted by Global Witness included outright false claims about the election — such as stating that Americans can vote online — as well as false information designed to suppress voting, like claims that voters must pass an English test before casting a ballot. Other fake ads encouraged violence or threatened electoral workers and processes.

The ads Global Witness submitted were text-based, but the group said it translated them into what it called “algospeak.” This is a widely used trick to try to bypass internet companies’ text-focused content moderation systems by substituting numbers and symbols as stand-in for letters, making it harder for automated systems to “read” the text.

Hold on, 49ers’ Nick Bosa isn’t lobbying for calls against Chiefs?

SANTA CLARA – Nick Bosa, isn’t there anything you can do this time around to finally draw a holding penalty on the Kansas City Chiefs?

“I never know that it’s happening. It’s hard to tell whether I’m getting held or not,” Bosa said ahead of Sunday’s visit by the Chiefs (5-0) to the 49ers (3-3). “I’m just trying to get to the quarterback.”

Two Super Bowl matchups, two 49ers defeats, and not one holding penalty called on Kansas City’s unindicted protectors of Patrick Mahomes.

Bosa, in his sixth year, was intrigued to learn the Chiefs have committed the NFL’s third-most offensive holding penalties this season. But it’s not his style to campaign or plead for such infractions, especially not during games when he’s oblivious to potential lawbreakers.

“I just feel myself not moving and I feel I’m being blocked or not closing enough on the quarterback,” Bosa said. “Until you watch the tape it’s hard to tell.”

Fellow defensive end Leonard Floyd’s response to Bosa’s take: “You can tell, you can tell. He’s being modest. But we still have to get there no matter what, whether they’re holding or not. It’s part of the job.”

The 49ers Faithful wasted no time splicing film of Bosa being held after each Super Bowl defeat from the 2019 and ’23 seasons. Bill Vinovich refereed both of those games, and with him working the Seahawks-Falcons game in Atlanta on Sunday, the man announcing penalties at Levi’s Stadium will be Alan Eck, a second-year referee.

“It seems different every week,” Bosa said of how holding is officiated.

Sunday’s rematch with the Chiefs – reminder: no trophy is at stake this time – has the 49ers painfully reliving key plays from their Super Bowl meetings, not to mention the Chiefs’ 44-23 rout at Levi’s Stadium two Octobers ago.

The most obvious, overlooked call was Eric Fisher’s unpenalized hold on Bosa during Mahomes’ “Jet Chip Wasp” completion to Tyreek Hill that sparked the 49ers’ downfall. Greg Papa, the 49ers’ play-by-play voice, mentioned on KNBR 680-AM on Thursday there were other holding penalties not called in the last Super Bowl, specifically two by former 49ers running back Jerick McKinnon on third-down conversions.

The Chiefs’ starting offensive line and their holding penalties this season: left tackle Wanya Morris (none), left guard Joe Thuney (none), center Creed Humphrey (one), right guard Trey Smith (two), right tackle Jawaan Taylor (two). Morris entered the lineup after rookie Kingsley Suamataia had three holding calls the first two games. Taylor has committed five false-start penalties this year, after leading the NFL with 20 penalties overall last season.

49ers opponents have been called for only four offensive holding penalties this season, with two cited on Bosa’s blockers – in the opener against the Jets and in the Week 3 loss to the Rams.

Conversely, Bosa has only three sacks this season, and fellow defensive end Leonard Floyd just two. After Bosa produced 14 pressures yet no sacks in last Thursday night’s win at Seattle, he’s obviously on the Chiefs’ radar.

“Their defensive front, it starts with those guys,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid told reporters in Kansas City. “They’ve got an All-Pro linebacker (Fred Warner) sitting right there, along with their secondary. They’re well rounded but it starts with the defensive front. Those guys set the tempo.”

JENNINGS SITS, PEARSALL UPDATE

While wide receiver Jauan Jennings (hip) remained out of practice, rookie Ricky Pearsall was a full participant for the third straight practice. There’s been no official word whether Pearsall will be activated off the non-football injury list for Sunday’s game, seven weeks after he survived a gunshot wound through his chest in a San Francisco robbery attempt.

Unlike several practices in camp when he dealt with a shoulder issue, Pearsall is not wearing a no-contact jersey, nor do defenders have instructions to ease up on him, such as in Thursday’s practice when players wore pads (to thud up, rather than tackle). “I don’t think we treat him any different,” defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen said. “Excited to see him out there. It’s really cool.”

PRACTICE UPDATES

Running back Jordan Mason (shoulder) and wide receiver Deebo Samuel (wrist) remained limited and in no-contact jerseys.

Defensive tackle Kevin Givens (groin) was added to the injury report and did not practice. He leads the team with 3 1/2 sacks, and Thursday’s game in Seattle was his first start of the season.

Defensive tackle Maliek Collins (knee) returned after missing Wednesday; back from a rest day were left tackle Trent Williams and defensive end Leonard Floyd.

Kickers Jake Moody (ankle) and Matthew Wright (back, shoulder) were not present, so it appears Anders Carlson will come up from the practice squad and serve as the 49ers’ third kicker in as many games.

PURDY APPRECIATES COMPLIMENT

Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo dished out plenty of respect to the 49ers and especially Brock Purdy. “I can’t find a weakness in this quarterback,” Spagnuolo told Kansas City reporters. “Every time I get the film on, I’m more and more impressed. … The quarterback is really good against zone and finding those pockets and spaces, and the receivers adjust routes to do that. … To me, the most impressive thing is, even if he isn’t getting it out quick on a blitz, he has a unique way of getting away from it.”

Asked if he indeed has no weaknesses, Purdy responded: “I would disagree. I definitely have stuff to work on and get better at. I appreciate the compliments but in the NFL there’s always something to get better at, especially at quarterback.”

Purdy volleyed his own compliment back to the Chiefs, specifically counterpart Patrick Mahomes.

“For what he’s done and the Super Bowls he’s won and just what he’s done in the NFL with his style of play, it’s really fun to watch,” Purdy said. “Do I compare myself to him? No I don’t compare myself to any other quarterback in the NFL. I am who I am, and I try to win for the 49ers playing my style of ball.”

Students’ state test scores continue to rise post-Covid

Recent state testing results show while Monterey County students are working their way up to pre-pandemic scores, less than 40% of students are meeting state standards.

Every year, students take the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress which tests their proficiency in English Language Arts and mathematics. This year’s data shows students are starting to gain higher scores than the years directly after the Covid-19 lockdown, but many are still struggling in certain areas.

“While we have much more work to do across the county, our teachers and students are working strategically to overcome challenges and make the progress that will be essential for students to succeed in today’s world,” said Superintendent of Schools Deneen Guss. “We are meeting students where they are at and accelerating their learning by building on their strengths and needs.”

CAASPP testing is completed every spring and student scores are grouped into four categories: standard met, exceeded, nearly met or not met. On the Peninsula, Carmel and Pacific Grove Unified saw the highest overall scores.

Pacific Grove Unified saw 72% of its students either meet or exceed ELA standards, with just under 58% of students meeting or exceeding the math standard. These scores did rise about two points from the last school year, but have dropped around seven points since 2019.

“Our biggest shift we’ve seen in how we’re approaching this learning is more along the lines of the unseen components of social-emotional learning,” said Superintendent Linda Adamson. “Our mental health resources we’ve been able to provide for students in need has definitely contributed to some of the growth we’ve seen.”

In Carmel, 72% of students met or exceeded ELA standards and 64% met or exceeded math standards. There is no testing data available for 2020-21 but state data shows higher scores in 2019 with 79% (ELA) and 69% (math) meeting state standards.

“CUSD is invested in utilizing data to inform its practices,” said Superintendent Sharon Ofek in an email. The district has purchased a data analytics tool to review data on the individual student level, according to Ofek.

Carmel Unified also has “comprehensive intervention and support offerings” for students struggling in ELA and math that are provided throughout the year. At the middle school level, the district has incorporated a math benchmark assessment to further analyze learning trends and assess student needs, said Ofek.

At Pacific Grove Unified, around 75% of third graders met or exceeded both subject standards. In 11th grade, the last year the CAASPP is required, 87% of students either met or exceeded ELA proficiency standards.

“We have really strong instructors, it starts with that,” said Adamson. “In addition to that, instructors are fully focused on alignment and there’s cohesion amongst them… using the data to inform change that they make. We’re truly seeing that with our English department at our high school level.”

At Pacific Grove and Monterey Peninsula Unified, younger grade levels showed growth from previous years.

“We revamped the way that we’re teaching reading and literacy in the early grades and we’re starting to see dividends there,” said Monterey Peninsula Unified Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh. “We hope and expect to see more growth there as we continue that journey.”

Third grade is when CAASPP testing begins for students. “You’ve got such a big grade span you’re having to accommodate for,” said Adamson. “I’d definitely attribute some of the growth in ELA at the elementary level… (to) intervention classes, so specific individualized learning for students who have shown any kind of a gap. We’ve seen unbelievable growth because of that.”

At Monterey Peninsula Unified, 67% of third graders and 70% of fifth graders who were previously classified as English language learners have now met proficiency standards, according to the state data. “We are pleased that we continue to recover post-pandemic. We also know that we have a long way to go,” said Diffenbaugh. “We should celebrate some of the bright spots and redouble our efforts in areas that need additional focus.”

The superintendents have the same approach when analyzing state data, which is that while it’s important to monitor progress, there are a number of measurements of student success.

“We want a holistic view of how we’re doing,” said Diffenbaugh. “Data is definitely helpful to dig in and use to improve, but ultimately I wouldn’t put too much on any one data point in terms of how schools are doing. I think you need a more holistic approach to evaluate school performance.”

“(CAASPP) data is a snapshot in time,” said Adamson. “Academic success really also depends on the social-emotional learning pieces and the support and that sense of belonging … to ensure we’re setting up that learning environment for them to be successful.”

Horoscopes Oct. 17. 2024: Eminem, love and be good to yourself

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Felicity Jones, 41; Eminem, 52; Rob Marshall, 64; Alan Jackson, 66.

Happy Birthday: Use your energy beneficially. If you let situations escalate into battle, you will deplete your energy and fall behind. Don’t allow negativity to eat away at you; if you direct your energy wisely, your success will be your best revenge. Let go of what’s holding you back and embrace what has meaning for you, and everything else will fall into place. Love and be good to yourself. Your numbers are 5, 13, 24, 30, 38, 41, 43.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Make a point to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. Participating in an event or activity that requires courage will build confidence and an astute sense of what and who you want to incorporate into your life. Expand your vision, awareness and possibilities. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Use your emotions to your benefit. Follow your heart and let your intuition lead the way. Talk to individuals who offer insight and support and who value your opinion. The information you gather will encourage change and help you finish what you start. 3 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Address any restrictions you encounter and go about your business. Clearing the path before you start your journey will encourage others to trust and believe in you. Maintaining a calm demeanor will stifle any attempt to turn a situation from something simple into something chaotic. 3 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): What you offer will stir a crowd. How you handle others will determine what’s to come. A positive attitude will help you cut to the chase and incorporate your dreams with the support you require to be successful. An emotional conversation will lead to favorable results. 4 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Look for opportunities and head in that direction. There is no time to waste or reason to dawdle. Actions speak louder than words and will have a more significant impact on the results. An innovative approach and not letting fear stand between you and victory will pay off. 5 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Implement a plan. A change will give you a new lease on life and encourage you to rethink your dreams. It’s time to direct your time and energy into what matters to you most instead of trying to please someone who doesn’t offer the same respect in return. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You know the drill, so stop procrastinating and implement something. Be the initiator and show some passion and desire to be the leader that you are, and you’ll find your bliss. Embrace a challenge instead of running away. Use intelligence, experience and facts, not force, to win. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Distance yourself from anyone applying pressure or trying to dictate what you do next. Use your intelligence, rely on your memory and exercise your rights. A disciplined attitude and innovative ideas will help you outsmart anyone trying to exploit you. Financial gain looks promising. 3 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sorrow will prevail if you give someone the benefit of the doubt. Don’t misread intentions or let someone exploit you. Focus on what you can do to bring about positive change and protect your financial, emotional and physical well-being. It would help if you put yourself first. 5 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Keep your emotions in check and be willing to listen to and observe what’s happening around you. Knowledge is the best way forward. Get the facts, consider the possibilities and review the potential outcomes based on experience and intuition. A change of scenery will be enlightening. 2 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You may relish something new and exciting, but, for now, living with what you have will save you time, money and stress. Learn all you can, focus inward and prioritize personal growth, fitness and health. The best change will come from within, not from outside influences. 4 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Simplify your plans, lifestyle and habits to fit your budget and emotional well-being. Direct your energy into something meaningful and use your time deliberately to ensure that you reduce stress. Life is about choices and being true to yourself and the ones you love. Choose peace over discord. 4 stars

Birthday Baby: You are ambitious, forceful and impulsive. You are resourceful and wise.

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.Visit Eugenialast.com, or join Eugenia on Twitter/Facebook/LinkedIn.

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Game of the week: North County wants to prove it’s a contender

CASTROVILLE – It’s one thing for a coach to have flashbacks of what happened the last time North Monterey County High’s football team was sitting in this position.

It’s another for a player from that team five years ago – who is now a coach – to talk to the current corps of Condors about the importance of coming to football practice and remaining focused.

“I told the kids to ask coach (Cyrus) Coffelt about the past,” North County coach Juan Cuevas said. “Ask him how it felt, how much it hurts, even to this day. It’s a horrible feeling.”

Although the celebration music gets a little louder in the locker room after each win, the job is far from finished as the Condors will look to remain undefeated in the Pacific Coast Athletic League Mission Division North on Friday when they host Seaside at 7:30 p.m.

North County (4-2 overall, 2-0 in division) is one of two teams still undefeated in league play after knocking off preseason favorite Alisal last week. Two weeks earlier, it beat defending champion Scotts Valley.

“We’re in a position of control,” Cuevas said. “But there is some pressure that comes with that. I personally feel the weight of the world on my shoulders. I lose sleep at night.”

Keon Ealy is a returning all-league defensive back for Seaside. (John Devine — Monterey Herald)

Perhaps it’s because Cuevas was the offensive coordinator in 2019 when North County needed to win just one of its final three games to ensure a playoff spot.

The Condors lost all three games by a combined 13 points, including a 14-13 season-ending loss to Gonzales, resulting in uniforms being turned in much sooner than expected.

“We were 6-1 overall, undefeated in league and couldn’t finish,” Cuevas said. “We had kids that started to miss practice, not show up to class. It left a bad taste in our mouths.”

Losing 18 months to the pandemic turned Cuevas’ debut as the head coach four years ago into a complete rebuild, where trust and establishing a culture has been a slow progression.

“What we’ve done to this point is nice,” Cuevas said. “Now it’s about finishing the last month of the season and making a statement. Missing practice isn’t acceptable.”

Seaside, meanwhile, has been having problems keeping the numbers up on its roster. After suiting up 20 kids the previous two weeks, finishing one game with 17, Seaside had 25 players in uniform in last week’s 26-17 win over Watsonville. It was the Spartans’ (1-5, 1-2) first win of the year.

‘The hardest part of this rebuild is making kids believe,” Seaside coach Al Avila said. “What is the purpose? Well, we’re still moving. Kids are hustling and enthusiastic. We’re improving.”

Cuevas is aware of that, having seen video of Seaside. He’s also aware of the big play potential of a handful of players, as shown by Seaside scoring eight touchdowns of 50 yards or longer this fall.

“No question their skill guys scare me,” Cuevas said. “They like the quick pass, and let their playmakers make plays. They fly around on defense. They play fast and hard. It’s still Seaside.”

What Cuevas preached in practice this week is it’s not the same North County. It’s a program that has bought in and plays at a high level when it’s disciplined.

“They are big and physical,” Avila said. “It’s like an old-school North County football team. They are better coached this year, more disciplined. Coach has done a nice job with those kids.”

What’s different about the Condors this fall is their resilience. That was evident in the season opener when they overcame a 19-point deficit in the second half to beat Alvarez.

Three weeks ago North County was down 12-0 to Scotts Valley, outscoring them 14-0 in the second half for its first road win.

“We’ve proved we know how to win,” Cuevas said. “What we can’t have is silly penalties. I’m not going to tell the kids not to show emotion. I love energy. But getting personal with an opponent can’t be our ultimate goal.”

Cuevas was referring to over 100 yards in penalties last week, in which a 27-7 lead in the second half ended up being a 27-20 win over Alisal.

“We’re in a position right now to where we can contend for a title,” said Cuevas, whose Condors still have a game with unbeaten St. Francis on Nov. 2. “When is the last time that happened?”

You’d have to go back to 2003 to the last time the Condors – who have the second-most league football titles in the county – won a league championship.

“What I reminded the kids this week is just because you’re not a starter doesn’t mean your role doesn’t matter,” Cuevas said. “We need every piece to make this happen.”

There have been flashes all season of the Spartans’ potential, starting with Julius Escort returning three kickoffs for touchdowns, leading the team with seven touchdowns.

In last week’s win over Watsonville, Escort’s younger brother Josiah had a big game with three rushing touchdowns, while the defense got a pick-six from Kean Ealey.

“Size-wise, we are outmatched by everyone,” Avila said. “But we believe we have some of the best skill guys in our league. We’re trying to speed things up and spread guys out. We took a big step forward. But it’s a long process. We have to understand that.”

Part of the adjustment in the Spartans’ attack starts at quarterback, where Avila started freshman Elijah Romero for the second straight game.

“When you’re a team that’s young, struggling and going through a rebuild, we decided to go with the freshman,” Avila said. “We put him into the fire, with an eye on next year. The good news is we’re getting better. Our puppies are starting to bite.”

Cuevas can attest to experience at quarterback being critical, having done something similar three years ago when he brought AJ Gomez up as a sophomore.

Now as a senior, Gomez is not only a leader but has turned the Condors into a pass-first team. He threw a career-high four touchdowns last week.

“Two of AJ’s four touchdown passes was him going away from his first read, keeping the play alive by scrambling, then finding the second or third option,” Cuevas said. “He and the offensive line have been on the same page.”

Marcos Mendoza catches a short pass for North County during a recent practice. (John Devine — Monterey Herald)

The same can be said about receiver Kenji Mellin, who is playing high school football for the first time, partly because of Gomez, who is a teammate of his in basketball.

“Kenji has made some big-time athletic plays that have helped us,” Cuevas said.

Don’t mistake the Condors for being one-dimensional, as tailback Chris Rasmussen is still a dynamic runner who just happens to catch a few more passes.

“Our passing game is working because of the threat of the run,” Cuevas said. “I thought Friday was a great example of who we could be. We were moving bodies up front.”

Somewhat overshadowed has been the Condors defense, which has shutout three teams in the second half behind linebacker Leo Cruz and defensive lineman Arnie Jimenez.

“We have teams look at where #72 (Jimenez) is and run the other way,” Cuevas said. “So we moved him to nose guard.”

Having given up an average of 50.1 points a game in their first four games, the Spartans defense allowed just 17 last week.

Part of that is the return of defensive end/linebacker Jeremiah Laui, who has come back from an injury. Last fall the 6-foot-2 pass rusher had 12.5 sacks as a sophomore.

“He has been the heartbeat of our defense since returning,” Avila said. “He just makes plays. And Keon (Ealey) is the best defensive back in the area.”

This weekend’s games

THURSDAY

Alvarez at Soquel, 7:30 p.m.

FRIDAY

Monterey at Hollister, 7:30 p.m.

Salinas at Aptos, 7:30 p.m.

St. Francis at Alisal, 7:30 p.m.

Seaside at North County, 7:30 p.m.

Rancho San Juan vs. Carmel at MPC, 7:30 p.m.

King City vs. North Salinas at Rabobank Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

Pacific Grove at Soledad, 7:30 p.m.

Marina at Santa Cruz, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY

SLV vs. Gonzales at Soledad, 7 p.m.

Pajaro Valley at Stevenson, 2:30 p.m.

Priory vs. Trinity at Pacific Grove High, 1 p.m.

Community Colleges

West Hills at MPC, 1 p.m.

Hartnell at Merced, 1 p.m.

The Herald’s Top 10 schedule

1. Carmel (6-0) vs. Rancho San Juan at MPC, 7:30 p.m. Friday

2. Salinas (5-1) at Aptos, 7:30 p.m., Friday

3. Soquel (4-2) vs. Alvarez, 7:30 p.m., Thursday

4. Monterey (3-3) at Hollister, 7:30 p.m., Friday

5. Hollister (4-2) vs. Monterey, 7:30 p.m., Friday

6. Aptos (4-3) vs. Salinas, 7:30 p.m., Friday

7. Palma (3-4) bye

8. North County (4-2) vs. Seaside, 7:30 p.m., Friday.

9. North Salinas (5-2) vs. King City at Rabobank Stadium, 7:30 p.m., Friday

10. San Lorenzo Valley (6-0) vs. Gonzales at Alisal, 7 p.m., Saturday

High School cross country: Cypress/Santa Lucia Center Meet

The Pacific Coast Athletic League cross country Center Meet

Santa Lucia Division 

At Pinto Lake, Watsonville (2.93 miles)

Boys team results

1. North Salinas 42; 2. Pajaro Valley 48; 3. York 56; 4. Seaside 64.

Individual results

1. Wells Lilly (Palma) 16:20; 2. Javier Luna (North Salinas) 16:46; 3. Angel Ramirez (Seaside) 17:04; 4. Erik Michi (Pajaro Valley) 17:47; 5. Jonathan Rodriguez (Monterey Bay Academy) 18:23; 6. Diego Silva-Audelo (York) 18:27; 7. Diego Sanchez (Ceiba) 18:30; 8. Peter Stratton (York) 18:32; 9. Emanuel Delfino (Palma) 18:38; 10. Patrick Lopez (Pajaro Valley) 18:49; 11. Luis Martinez (Pajaro Valley) 19:07; 12. Hector Sanchez Figueroa (North Salinas) 19:10; 13. Jaden Muros (North Salinas) 19:19; 14. Anthony Toriz (Ceiba) 19:20; 15. Jayden Ruano (North Salinas) 19:20.

Cypress Division

Boys team results

1. Pacific Grove 34; 2. Soledad 60; 3. Pacific Collegiate 84; 4. Kirby 91; 5. Anzar 112; 6. Oakwood 127.

Individual results

1. Antony Gabrik (Pacific Grove) 17:04; 2. Betinho Zunguze (Pacific Grove) 17:05; 3. Mason Vergho (Kirby) 17:37; 4. Tadeo Ortiz (Pacific Grove) 18:01; 5. Jude Holmlund (Pacific Collegiate) 18:01; 6. Giovanni Bravo (Soledad) 18:03; 7. Roark Anderson (Pacific Collegiate) 18:18; 8. Alexander Profumo (Pacific Collegiate) 18:23; 9. Michael Castro (Soledad) 18:34; 10. Jacob Valladarez (Soledad) 18:55; 11. Shayan Bahrainy (Oakwood) 18:58; 12. Henry Murphy (Anzar) 19:12; 13. Aidan McFarland-Walton (Pacific Grove) 19:14; 14. Jonah DeLeon (Pacific Grove) 19:15; 15. Andres Gutierrez (Anzar) 19:21.

Girls team results

1. Anzar 39; 2. Soledad 70; 3. Pacific Collegiate 82; 4. North Salinas 117; 5. Monterey Bay Academy 138; 6. Seaside 143; 7. Ceiba 144; 8. Santa Catalina 148.

Individual results

1. Izabella Tejeda (Palma) 20:19; 2. Nika Berezina (Pacific Grove) 20:27; 3. Iris Paten (Pacific Collegiate) 20:56; 4. Arie Shae McNeil (Pacific Collegiate) 21:31; 5. Isabella Briceno-Nicholson (Anzar) 21:50; 6. Kathryn Dill (Palma) 21:53; 7. Evelyn Lopez (Soledad) 21:58; 8. Angelina Tran (Anzar) 22:19; 9. Rory Kayne (Anzar) 22:43; 10. Lesly Perez (North Salinas) 23:21; 11. Alice Gilbert-King (Pacific Collegiate) 23:30; 12. Ellie Gryte (Monterey Bay Academy) 23:36; 13. Lea Bautista (Anzar) 24:07; 14. Elizabeth Pina (Soledad) 24:31; 15. Alexa Cruz (Seaside) 24:35.