Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 342

September 30, 2024

Pacific Grove Police Chief announces retirement

PACIFIC GROVE – Pacific Grove Police Chief Cathy Madalone announced on Saturday her retirement, effective Oct. 12. Madalone has been on an extended medical leave for several months.

Madalone released a media statement and posted a video to Facebook Sept. 28, thanking the city for the opportunity to serve and noting that the decision came with different emotions.

“This choice comes with a mix of pride and nostalgia. Serving this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Together, we’ve faced challenges, celebrated victories and created lasting relationships that will stay with me forever,” Madalone wrote in the statement.

Born in Staten Island, New York and raised in central New Jersey, Madalone became a member of the Monterey Peninsula community back in 2019 when she officially took over as Pacific Grove’s police chief.

Madalone attended Montclair State University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Sociology with a minor in Criminal Justice and a Masters degree in Applied Sociology.

She graduated from the Bergen County Police Academy in 1994 and was the first woman hired at the Borough of Bergenfield, New Jersey Police Department and the first woman to become police chief in Bergen County, New Jersey.

In Pacific Grove, she succeeded former chief Amy Christey and during her tenure Madalone and the Pacific Grove department completed accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, established a chaplain and peer support program and hosted a variety of community outreach programs like National Night Out, Coffee with a Cop, Surfing with a Cop and Citizens Academies, according to the city.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to my colleagues, friends, and all community members who have made this journey so meaningful,” Madalone said in the statement. “While I may be retiring from my official role, I remain committed to supporting our community in any way I can.”

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:46

Beth Peerless, Where it’s at: Soaking in the moments at Monterey Jazz Festival

At the 67th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival over the course of three days this past weekend, there were numerous challenges, some met and others left for another year.

Five stages and 350 artists. Music festivals these days believe in the concept of more is better. The choices are there, the frustration to see all your favorites is real.

The Monterey Jazz Festival is an event where soaking in the moments is where it’s at. It’s taking a seat in the arena and enjoying an entire set of a headlining artist you admire. Or, as was the case many times at this event with a new artistic director, Darin Atwater, it was discovering new music from across the globe. It’s wandering the grounds and perking your ears to what’s on each stage as you pass, deciding to stop and listen should the spirit move you. It’s staking out your spot at one stage and taking in the performances as they unfold. And it’s visiting with friends, shopping, eating and drinking and just embracing the ambiance of the Monterey Fair & Event Center.

A Monterey Jazz Festival attendee browses through the selection of vinyls for sale in the merchandise store. (Arianna Nalbach – Monterey Herald)

My experience at the festival was varied. The sets I placed at the top of my list for best of included Friday’s opening set at Jimmy Lyons Stage with the SFJAZZ Collective, an all star tour de force of talent. Being a fan of music director/saxophonist Chris Potter, I wasn’t about to miss a note of the set. So glad to experience the depth and wonderfully arranged pieces that showcased the talents of saxophonist/percussionist David Sanchez, trumpeter Mike Rodriguez, pianist Edward Simon, bassist Matt Brewer, drummer Kendrick Scott and vibraphonist Warren Wolf.

While I made intermittent dashes around the fairgrounds to hear music at other stages I tended to gravitate back to the arena where the talent and presentation leaned into the sublime. Samara Joy put on a dazzling performance with a voice as resonant and expressive as they come in jazz. No comparisons, just beautiful. Saturday’s top tier was The Blind Boys of Alabama with Bobby Rush, laying down lush harmonies and soulful entreaties. Cory Henry and the Funk Apostles take the prize for best vibe and dance party of the festival. With the driving funk and dare I say rock intensity, lead singer Henry got the crowd up and drew the faithful to the stage where they threw up their arms and gyrated to the beat, keeping it up for the majority of the set.

Japanese pianist Hiromi is a force to be reckoned with and I have to say a personal favorite of mine. She is the epitome of joy and at the same time an amazing technical wizard of a keyboard player. She blew my mind again, as always. Following her set was the great NEA Jazz Master Stanley Clarke and his N-4EVER band with a guest appearance by Hiromi that killed. A mix of headlong-into-fusion fire, and beautiful nuance, it was certainly another of my favorite sets, especially their performance of some of Chick Corea’s music. The arena was almost packed out for this prime-time set. Sadly, the beautiful warm weather of Friday had turned to heavy, damp fog by Saturday evening, challenging the steadfastness of Clarke’s fans, and failing to drive many, if any away. Unfortunately for Mumu Fresh’s debut at the festival in the closing set the crowd melted away and only a smattering of die-hards stuck it out for her lovely singing.

The festival this year returned to what was generally the pre-pandemic format, with a few new tweaks. Friday started earlier than normal at 3 p.m., when before it was 5:30 or 6 p.m. Both Saturday and Sunday stretched from noon or earlier to 11 p.m. or so, challenging even the energetic, listen-till-you-drop crowd. The festival had pared down the late-night music for the past couple of years and I think the regulars kind of liked that. The topic of many conversations each day was the first impressions of the new guy’s lineup. I heard a mixed bag of responses, and I don’t think it was because of any of the performers themselves. There was just a different feel. And that’s not surprising. It’s a transition year.

The Sara Jones Trio performed Saturday at the Courtyard Stage for the Monterey Jazz Festival. (Arianna Nalbach)

Personally, I felt there was so much variety it was a little disconcerting. While gospel is OK in my book, and despite the good intentions of Atwater in bringing the joy to the festival, in my opinion it was a little too much. Granted the roots of jazz are in the African-American community and it’s a beautiful thing to experience that aspect of the music. But my preferences are in other areas. Hard to ignore were the many off-schedule performances, meaning late starts. With such a multi-faceted, massive amount of music to get to, plus conversations, and other festival aspects, not having performances begin on time can really upset a fine-tuned strategy. For whatever reasons that was happening, it’s something that needs to be improved on next year.

By the time Sunday rolled around, this festival attendee was feeling a little worse for wear. What can I say, too much fun and running around. I haven’t bothered to hit the after party scene at the Monterey Hyatt Regency for years now and this year was no different. Breakfast with fellow music journalists courtesy of Downbeat Magazine required an earlier than normal start to my day, and from there everything sort of shifted into low gear. Other than the set with Lila Downs. People who know me know that Mexico is dear to my heart and she is one of my sheroes. Her brightly colored folkloric outfit, a sun shining smile, gorgeous sonorous voice and the rhythms of cumbia and canciones de la patria (songs of the homeland) brought me to life and to my feet to dance.

I caught the presentation of the inaugural Cultural Leadership Award presented to actor/director/pianist/composer/longtime Jazz Fest board member Clint Eastwood by his fellow Hollywood star and friend Morgan Freeman. It was a sweet moment, with Freeman giving a speech, albeit a bit loose in delivery, prior to symbolically handing the award to Eastwood who remained seated in the front box area of the arena. Freeman went to join Eastwood afterward to enjoy the performance of Kyle Eastwood’s songs from his father’s movies in Eastwood Symphonic.

As mentioned, my main focus was on the arena acts, although I was back and forth to all the other stages fleetingly catching some of the other music. I skipped out early evening to head home, satiated and happy, but tired. The days of marathon listening are past, best left to the young people who will hopefully continue to grow in numbers at this festival that has lasted the past 67 years on an audience raised on jazz and blues. Today’s and future fans will develop organically, perhaps with the aide of the many jazz education programs that dot America and the world, not least of all, the great programs of the Monterey Jazz Festival.

Best of wishes to the continued success of this great organization. Along with Tim Jackson’s retirement, there are many of the usual festival workers I’ve come to know and love over the last 33 years of covering the event that have also hung up their Jazz Fest badges of honor. I salute all of you and miss having those one-on-one hangs we came to expect every year. And to those who are hanging in there, including me, the party continues!

Monterey Jazz Festival attendees had the opportunity to meet with some of the musicians and get merchandise signed. (Arianna Nalbach – Monterey Herald)

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:28

Sand City getting closer to having its first cannabis retail business

SAND CITY – Sand City, the tiny Monterey Peninsula municipality of about 325 inhabitants and an operating budget of about $13 million is proceeding to allow the sale of recreational and medicinal cannabis, being one of the last cities in Monterey County to do so.

“Sand City has a lot of projects going on and while this has been a priority, it hasn’t been at the top of our list,” said City Manager Vibeke Norgaard.

Nearby Del Rey Oaks led the way in 2015 when it opened Monterey County’s first cannabis dispensary.

The Sand City City Council will open a public hearing at its meeting Tuesday with a first reading of an ordinance dictating commercial cannabis uses among other aspects of allowing such businesses within its city limits.

Sand City was awarded a Cannabis Retail Access Grant of $115,000 from the State of California Department of Cannabis Control in October 2023, and received notification of approved contract documents – a revised budget and schedule – in August 2024, receiving the fully executed grant agreement last week.

The Department of Cannabis Control will now distribute $80,000 to the city of Sand City, which is 80% of the city’s award, according to city documents. The remaining 20% of the award and $15,000 of equity bonus funding, will be distributed after the city has established the cannabis retail licensing program and cannabis retail equity program. Expenses may be incurred until June 2026.

Equity bonus funding is included in the grant to enable the city to hire a contractor to assist social equity applicants, says a staff report from City Manager Vibeke Norgaard and Brian Foucht, contract planner, EMC Planning Group. Such applicants are defined as individuals who meet two of the following three criteria: (1) Low-Income; (2) a prior California Cannabis Arrest or Conviction; (3) ten years’ cumulative residency in a Disproportionately Impacted Area.

“Grant funds are used to prepare and adopt the ordinance and procedures,” said Norgaard. “$15,000 are to be used to assist equity applicants. Grant funds may not be used to administer the program and are only for the purpose of establishing the ordinance, procedures and to assist equity applicants.”

Commercial and medicinal cannabis businesses are currently prohibited within the city of Sand City, along with the cities of Carmel, Gonzales, Pacific Grove and Soledad. Retail sales of medical cannabis only are allowed in the city of Monterey. The County of Monterey allows commercial and medical cannabis to be sold in its unincorporated areas.

“Dispensaries are now commonplace all over California,” said Norgaard. “If a business were to approach Sand City to open a retail facility, the city wants to be prepared to entertain it.”

In 2021 the Sand City City Council directed its staff to prepare a draft Commercial Cannabis Ordinance, after extensive consideration at City Council meetings, a community survey, resident mailings and the community stakeholder workshop. An initial draft ordinance was provided to the City Council in April 2022.

The revised draft ordinance incorporates the City Council’s prior direction to limit the allowable areas in which to place cannabis retail businesses to the city’s shopping centers, and limit the ordinance to allow retail of cannabis and not allow manufacturing of cannabis related products, according to the staff report. It also includes city standards for permitting and operation of licensed Commercial Cannabis Business uses and seeks to ensure the public health and safety and, at the same time, streamline the city’s process.

Norgaard said the City Council has directed the ordinance to limit the number of storefront retail cannabis businesses to two, and can only be in the regional shopping centers – the Sand Dollar Center and the Edgewater Shopping Center.

Sand City is at least 10 months away from its first cannabis retail store opening.

“If approved by the Council for the first reading (Tuesday) night and adopted in November, the ordinance will take effect in December,” said Norgaard. “The city will need to adopt procedures and develop a process for selection of eligible retailers.”

Norgaard said that after that, it will take about 60 to 90 days for a selected retailer to obtain a city conditional use permit, then another 4 to 6 months to obtain a State License.

“And after that, the licensee would have to obtain an administrative operator permit and business license from the city,” said Norgaard. “This involves a building permit plan check for tenant improvements and final occupancy approval from the building department, planning, fire, and police department inspections for tenant improvements. This could take 30 to 45 days.”

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:25

‘Now we turn the page’: With Thompson’s departure, Warriors see opportunities for growth

SAN FRANCISCO — To Draymond Green, the vibe has unmistakably shifted. Things look different. Things feel different.

It’s hard to lose a franchise icon and pretend life is the same.

While the likes of Green, Stephen Curry and Kevon Looney fielded questions in San Francisco during the Warriors’ media day Monday, Klay Thompson went through the same rigamarole about 1,500 miles away in Dallas with the Mavericks. For 12 seasons, Curry, Green and Thompson formed one of the best trios of all time. Now, Curry, Green and company must navigate a new chapter of their basketball lives.

“You go into it with a little uncertainty because after 12 years of something you kind of grow accustomed to it,” Green said, “but at the same time, where there’s the most uncertainty, that’s usually the biggest opportunity for growth. That’s kind of where we are, and I’m looking forward to that challenge.”

As Gary Payton II assessed, the Warriors “can’t really duplicate” Thompson’s ability to take and make tough shots. There’s also no truly replacing the personality of Thompson, traded to the Mavericks as part of a historic six-team deal. What the front office has attempted to do this offseason, though, is attempt to alleviate the sting of his departure.

While Golden State failed to land a big fish this offseason — Lauri Markkanen signed an extension with the Jazz while Paul George joined the 76ers — the team added a bevy of guards and wings in Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, De’Anthony Melton, Lindy Waters III. Hield and Waters provide shooting; Anderson and Melton bring defense.

Still, the combination of failing to land a star and losing Thompson and Chris Paul leaves Golden State in a nebulous position. The Warriors, as currently constructed, don’t stand to represent the Western Conference in the Finals, well behind the likes of the Thunder, Nuggets, Mavericks and Timberwolves. As Stephen Curry assessed on Monday, the Warriors are now the “hunters” — not the ones being hunted.

While Golden State didn’t make a blockbuster move, Green praised general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. for not panicking when the attempts to acquire George and Markkanen fell through, noting that teams with strong benches are those that win titles.

“One move in this league, it can pretty much set you up for how the next 10 years of your organization is going to go,” Green said. “Sometimes the best deal you can make is to not make a deal, and I think we did a great job in going out and getting pieces that’s going to help this team grow, that will allow young guys opportunity to grow and yet keeping the future of this organization as bright as it’s ever been.”

Along with the additions, the Warriors will increasingly depend on their young core of Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody — a young core they elected to retain. There are question marks, to be sure, with every member of that trio.

Does Kuminga, who posted career-highs all across the board, sign an extension?

“I’d love to have it, but I’m not really concerned about it,” Kuminga said. “If I get it, if I don’t, it’s cool. I’m still going to be me. I’ll just go out there and perform. But that’s not a problem.”

Does Podziemski, fresh off making the , avoid a sophomore slump and take a second-year leap?

“Individually, I think I learned that I could do a lot more,” Podziemski said. “I think towards the back half of the season, end of March, early April, things started to slow down for me, just on the court. I felt more at ease of what I was doing out there, and it was an exciting piece.”

Can Moody, who averaged a career-high 8.1 points, finally become a consistent part of the rotation?

“The sky’s the limit for those guys,” said Kevon Looney. “They are young and talented and have proven they can play in this league and play winning basketball. We are going to need them to reach our ultimate goal and take the next step and be really good and compete and contend. We need those guys to play a lot of minutes and play at a high level.”

In Green’s estimation, the Warriors never got “bored chasing the greatness.” Green, Curry and Thompson’s collective goal was always to win a championship. For Curry and Green, that goal remains the same.

Even without Thompson.

“Now we turn the page,” Green said. “Turning the page doesn’t mean we’re still not competing for the same thing, that’s always the goal, but it’s just going to look a little different now. It’s not going to look the way it looked for the last 12 years.”

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:22

From neighbors to activists: Unveiling Monterey’s history of social action

CARMEL – An 86 year old 16 mm video and a bundle of signed petitions from the 1940s might not be significant on their own, but together they tell the story of a Monterey community that came together to protect its neighbors.

“Enduring Democracy: The Monterey Petition” will be screened at the Carmel Film Festival Oct. 6. Directed by David Schendel, the 2022 film is centered around a 1938 video of Japanese American locals spending a day on Fisherman’s Wharf. Found alongside the video were petitions created and signed by the neighbors of those same Japanese Americans who were targeted and ostracized following World War II.

“This was a great opportunity to tell the story from the resistance point of view,” said Schendel. “All of the stories I’ve seen about Japanese incarceration in World War II were told from the point of view of the victim and that’s probably due to the fact nobody had any idea there was a resistance against it. This was the first documented existence of a resistance movement.”

When these documents were found in a filing cabinet in the Japanese American Citizens League Hall in Monterey, the civil liberties organization reached out to several filmmakers to get the film made.

When he met with the league, Schendel pitched the idea to “tell the story of the people who fought for their neighbors’ civil rights, cared about their neighbors and wanted to welcome them back to Monterey and have them be part of the community.”

Included in the film are testimonies from the children of those who led the petition drive, family members of internment camp prisoners and some survivors of those camps themselves.

The film highlights the efforts by a group of women led by Toni Jackson, an editor for John Steinbeck, to curb anti-Japanese propaganda on the Monterey Peninsula and its media outlets.

Jackson’s petition, A Democratic Way of Life for All, is the only documented, organized public resistance to anti-Japanese rhetoric at the time.

When Mollie Sumida, an internment camp prisoner, submitted a letter to the editor of the Monterey Herald describing the violence she had been subjected to, residents were inspired to sign Jackson’s petition. The petition drive and Sumida’s letter were all featured in the Herald, and ultimately put a stop to what Schendel describes as “fear campaigns” funded by wealthy individuals on the Peninsula.

This film will hopefully “restore humanity,” in its viewers, said Schendel. “We are constantly in a mirage of the media trying to separate us, put us into groups … What I want people to do is come together, see the film and then learn about your neighbor … Reach out to them, don’t be afraid of them and try to box them out if they’re not part of your group.”

Simply put, this film was created to build bridges. The 1938 video and petitions were discovered in 2016, a time when American society was massively divided and harmful rhetoric was shared on all sides. A few years later following the COVID-19 pandemic, Asian-American hate crimes saw a rise due to very similar hate speech used in the 1940s. Facing another divisive election year, the timing of this film is just right, according to Schendel.

“(In 2020) there was a very similar kind of feeling to what was happening in World War II when people were being called out for how they looked or their beliefs,” said Schendel. “It’s like this was sent from above. This is the right time and place for this film and these petitions to be found.”

The film will be part of the Carmel International Film Festival held at the Golden Bough Theatre on Monte Verde Street. On Oct. 5 and 6, over 25 films will be screened in various categories, ranging from best short film to best historical legacy film. “Enduring Democracy” was submitted in the “Best of the Monterey Peninsula” competition.

To bring it full circle and show the film in Monterey for the first time since its release is “kind of a homecoming,” said Schendel. “It’s gonna be very emotional.”

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:18

10 tiny house design ideas you can steal for any space

Dan Morris

Tiny houses are the epitome of clever design and efficient living. With limited square footage, these homes make the most of every inch, using smart design features to maximize space and functionality. But you don’t have to live in a tiny house to benefit from their space-saving solutions.

You can steal these tiny house design ideas for a home of any size. Whether you live in a small apartment or a spacious home, these tips will help you make the most of your space while keeping things stylish, organized and comfortable.

Sliding doors and pocket doors

In tiny houses, sliding and pocket doors are must-haves for saving space. Unlike traditional doors that swing open and take up room, these doors neatly slide into walls or along tracks, leaving your precious square footage untouched.

You can borrow this idea for any home – especially in small spaces like bathrooms, closets or between rooms – where every inch counts. They add a sleek, modern look and are perfect for maintaining open layouts while offering privacy when needed. Plus, they’re a game changer in tight hallways or narrow entryways.

Dual-function appliances

Tiny houses thrive on versatility, and dual-function appliances are a key component of this design strategy. Think of appliances that perform double duty, like a washer-dryer combo, convection microwave oven or a small wood-burning cookstove.

These space-saving wonders are perfect for any home that needs to maximize utility without sacrificing convenience. They’re great in small apartments, kitchens with limited counter space or laundry rooms with minimal space. By blending functionality, dual-use appliances keep spaces clutter-free and often make daily tasks easier and more efficient.

Custom-built storage nooks

Tiny houses make every corner count by incorporating custom-built storage nooks into unused spaces. Whether it’s a hidden drawer under a staircase or shelves built into a wall, these nooks provide efficient storage without adding bulky furniture.

This concept is perfect for any home, especially if you want to reduce clutter while maximizing your living space. You can build storage nooks under beds, in hallways or even in awkward corners, turning once-wasted areas into practical storage solutions that add both style and functionality.

Hidden lighting solutions

Lighting is essential in tiny homes, but space for fixtures is often limited. That’s where these smart lighting ideas come in. Recessed lights, under-cabinet LED strips and wall sconces illuminate without intruding into the living area, keeping the space feeling open and uncluttered.

You can easily adapt this design in any home by using space-saving lighting techniques in kitchens, bathrooms and living rooms. Hidden lighting solutions create a clean, modern aesthetic while making the space feel larger and more inviting, no matter how big or small your home is.

Movable furniture

Tiny homes often use movable furniture on casters to create flexible, adaptable spaces. From rolling kitchen islands to mobile seating, this design trick allows tiny spaces to serve multiple purposes by moving furniture out of the way as needed.

It’s a great idea for any home where versatility is key. Whether working with a small apartment or an open-plan living area, movable furniture makes rearranging a breeze. Add wheels to your coffee table, bookshelves or dining chairs, and you’ll have a home that easily adapts to your lifestyle.

Hanging plants

Tiny homes often lack floor space for decor, so they go vertical – hanging plants from ceilings, walls or window frames. This simple yet effective idea adds greenery and life without sacrificing square footage.

This design feature can be used in any home by incorporating hanging planters or wall-mounted plant shelves in your living room, kitchen or even bathroom. Hanging plants bring a natural, fresh vibe to your space while improving air quality, all without taking up valuable floor or counter space. It’s a win-win for homes of any size.

Pop-up power outlets

In tiny houses, every detail is designed to maximize space, including power outlets. Pop-up power outlets provide hidden access to electricity when needed and disappear when not in use, keeping surfaces clean and uncluttered.

This idea can easily be applied to any home, especially in kitchens, workstations or living areas with limited counter space. These outlets are perfect for keeping a minimalist look while providing the power you need for charging devices or plugging in appliances without permanent clutter on your surfaces.

External storage solutions

When indoor space is limited, tiny homeowners often turn to outdoor storage. Small sheds or compact outdoor cabinets allow homeowners to store tools, equipment, and seasonal items without cluttering their living spaces.

This strategy works for any small home. Adding outdoor storage, such as a compact shed or dedicated chainsaw storage area, can help keep your backyard tidy while freeing up indoor space.

Wall-mounted fold-out desk

In tiny homes, a wall-mounted fold-out desk is a lifesaver for creating a workspace without permanently occupying floor space. The desk simply folds down when needed and tucks away when not in use.

This idea can be used in any home, especially if you’re short on space but need a dedicated work area. Mount a fold-out desk in a hallway, bedroom or living room to create an instant office that disappears when you’re done. It’s the perfect solution for maintaining a tidy, organized space while having a functional workstation.

Outdoor living spaces

Tiny homes extend their living space by embracing the outdoors, often incorporating decks, patios or small balconies to enhance their square footage. You can embrace this idea to expand your living area by designing an outdoor space that functions as an extension of your home.

Whether it’s a cozy patio, a garden deck or a paved area for a fire pit, outdoor extensions allow you to entertain, relax or dine al fresco without needing more interior space. These areas can transform any home, offering fresh air and extra room.

Smart house design

Tiny houses prove that thoughtful design can transform even the smallest of spaces into something functional, stylish and inviting. By incorporating these clever design ideas into your own home – no matter the size – you can enjoy the benefits of a more efficient, organized and adaptable living space.

Whether it’s hidden storage, multifunctional furniture or creative lighting, these tiny house-inspired designs offer big results for any home. So go ahead, steal a few ideas and enjoy the perks of smart, space-saving living.

Daniel Morris founded Fire and Saw, a site about chainsaws, wood stoves, tree care and related topics. He operates the site where he shares his passion for these subjects.

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:05

Warriors acknowledge they need to adapt in ever-changing NBA

SAN FRANCISCO — Klay Thompson’s gone, there are starting spots up for grabs, and three new veterans joined the mix.

Heading into training camp, uncertainty is swirling around the Warriors like it rarely has in the past decade. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but the puzzle pieces are scattered.

“I’m excited,” Draymond Green said. “It’s a new opportunity, a new challenge. With Klay leaving here, things just look different, it feels different.”

The Warriors are healthy and ready for camp in Hawaii. The group they’re taking might not be the exact one that finishes the season, but they’re confident nonetheless. There are Steph Curry and Green as the pillars. Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga as the young guns. Kevon Looney and Trayce Jackson-Davis competing for center minutes. Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson and De’Anthony Melton are the new guys, jockeying for playing time with Moses Moody and Gary Payton II.

Green likened the past 13 years to a band playing the hits; great rock bands often break up when they’re at the top for so long. Doing the same thing over and over again gets tedious. The Warriors staved that sensation off, chasing greatness while not getting bored, but now it’s time to create a different album.

Any offense with Curry will always have frenetic ball and player movement, but expect some of the Warriors’ long-held system to evolve. New assistant coaches Jerry Stackhouse and Terry Stotts have the chance to blend styles of veteran players, developing young ones and new additions.

The Warriors brought in three veteran free agents after pursuits for star players — Paul George and Lauri Markkanen — fell through. Green lauded general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr.’s patience and likened the additions to the veterans Golden State acquired before the 2022 championship season.

But those players have distinct skills. And after a 46-win season that culminated in a play-in loss to the Sacramento Kings, it seems clear that the Warriors will need to evolve their identity. The way they operate hasn’t changed, more or less, for a decade. This season is as good an opportunity as any to make tweaks.

“I think you get smacked in the face and don’t make the playoffs, that’s all the real message you need,” Curry said. “(It’s) the reminder you need that, again, we have a way of doing things in terms of how we approach practices, games, the level of competition you need to have, but when it comes down to your Xs and Os and the style and all that type of stuff, being open to evolving and pivoting.”

Even the mainstays have acknowledged that things will be different this year. Looney slimmed down and took 400 to 500 3-pointers a day in an effort to extend his range to the point where he can keep defenses honest.

Payton, one of the 2022 offseason additions that provided championship depth, opened his press conference by vowing to stay healthy after working to “bullet-proof everything” this offseason.

Dunleavy and coach Steve Kerr talked up Wiggins, saying the 2022 All-Star is primed for a big bounce-back season. The Warriors plan to feature the small forward more offensively, getting him downhill and possibly more post touches.

Moody, in seemingly perpetual rotational purgatory, worked to quicken the release on his jump shot. Anderson likewise retooled his shooting mechanics to try to return to his 40% 3-point mark from two seasons ago. Kuminga, coming off a major leap last season, wants to become a “complete player” — with or without a contract extension before the Oct. 21 deadline.

A key difference this season, the Warriors hope, is to commit on the defensive end. Prioritizing transition play in particular could return Golden State to the elite defense it rode to a dynasty. With Chris Paul and Thompson last season, the team rarely resembled the “track meet” Melton remembers playing against.

Now, with Melton, a healthy Payton and Anderson, the personnel skews more toward defensive flexibility after the Warriors finished 15th in defensive rating in 2023-24.

“That’s definitely my mentality,” Melton said. “I love defense. I love playing defense. I love getting steals. I love getting stops. I feel like defense wins championships too. It’s always been my mantra. That’s who I am.”

What has the potential to be alarmingly stagnant, though, is Green’s demeanor. Last year, suspensions and ejections limited him to 55 games. He’s so valuable to the team that the Warriors went 14-17 in games Green either missed or didn’t finish due to ejection.

In his first media availability of this season, Green couldn’t help himself from getting into a little squabble with a reporter inquiring about fans’ concerns about his ability to stay out of trouble.

“I think my mindset has helped us do some great things,” Green said as part of a testy back-and-forth. “That’s pretty cool. It’s all about how you spin it. I love how you’re trying to spin it, but it ain’t my spin to it, playa.”

Green and Curry are possibly the only two players guaranteed spots in the Warriors’ starting lineup. Head coach Steve Kerr relishes the chance to make training camp a competition for roles.

“It’s a lot more uncertainty,” Looney said. “When you lose a piece like Klay, and then you add a bunch of new faces, the team is in a different direction.”

The Warriors have depth, and the combinations will work themselves out. But Thompson won’t be a part of it for the first time in more than a decade.

“We’re gonna miss him, but excited to kick his ass pretty soon,” Payton said.

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Published on September 30, 2024 14:02

Horoscopes Sept. 30, 2024: Fran Drescher, declutter your life

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Lacey Chabert, 42; Marion Cotillard, 49; Jenna Elfman, 53; Fran Drescher, 67.

Happy Birthday: Focus, discipline and intelligence will help you bypass angst and parlay your way to achieve what you want this year. Set your goals and target what’s most important to you. Detail and precision will help you map your way to victory. A domestic change will help you declutter your life emotionally and physically. Trust your instincts and be a leader, not a follower. Your numbers are 7, 12, 21, 26, 30, 32, 48.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Keep personal information a secret. Look for solid investments that put your mind at ease and give you something to look forward to. An intelligent choice over a snap decision will pay off. Take your time and sort through your mixed emotions before you move into fast-forward. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Survey the possibilities and decide what will match the expectations you face. Claim your position and disclose what you are willing to offer. An enthusiastic approach will appeal to someone who has the means to help you advance. You have plenty to gain if you stay on course. 5 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Consider the consequences of your actions. A well-thought-out approach will help you dodge a precarious situation. Socialize, network and scope out the possibilities, but get offers and promises in writing before you start. Someone will send mixed messages regarding pertinent information. Make fitness and health a priority. 2 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take care of unfinished business. Let your creative mind lead the way, and you’ll come up with ideas that will lighten the load and make you look like a genius. Your dedication and tenacity will encourage others to give you the space necessary to complete your mission. 4 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Communicate with experts, adjust your timetable to fit your agenda and follow through with your plans as if your life depends on what you complete. A give-all, take-all attitude will give you the edge you need to succeed and encourage onlookers to see you as a leader. 3 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Tally up the importance of what you want to accomplish, and you’ll find a path that helps you reach your anticipated destination. Put time aside for a heart-to-heart talk with someone you want to help excel. Encouragement is favored; taking over will make matters worse. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Use your imagination to flourish. Put a strategy in place and follow through. Have faith in yourself and your ability to get things done. Refuse to let what others do, think or say bother you. Doing what’s best for you before reaching out to help others is essential. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Show off your skills, embrace what’s available and use your imagination to devise viable alternatives that separate you from anyone who challenges you. A passionate display will grab views, allowing you to influence others. Hold your head high and let your actions lead the way. 4 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Approach each job with the mindset to do your best. How you handle matters will affect the outcome and how others perceive you. Refrain from investing time in inconsequential things that leave you empty and frustrated. Set your pace and follow through with what matters. 2 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Refrain from giving in or compromising yourself mentally or financially. Maintaining equilibrium in your life will make a difference in your attitude and outcomes. Put your energy where it counts most and encourage you to look, feel and do your best. 5 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take better care of yourself and meaningful relationships. Take the initiative to let others know how you feel. An investment opportunity looks good if you put in the time necessary and follow through to completion. Say no to changes others make that could disrupt your plans. 3 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Slow down, consider the desired outcome and determine how to make it happen. Refuse to agree to something indulgent or unnecessary. Be willing to do the work yourself and save money. Distance yourself from anyone using pressure tactics to push you in a direction you don’t fancy. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are brave, thoughtful and proficient. You are intuitive and persuasive.

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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Published on September 30, 2024 03:01

September 29, 2024

Another wrinkle to the Purdy legend — deep shot Brock throws long against Patriots

SANTA CLARA — You could sense the tension at Levi’s Stadium Sunday the moment rookie Isaac Guerendo fumbled the second half kickoff and the New England Patriots quickly scored on a 5-yard touchdown pass from Jacoby Brissett to Austin Hooper.

A game the 49ers had led 20-0 was suddenly 20-10 and it was hard not to think of the previous week’s collapse against the Los Angeles Rams, which was fueled in part by special teams errors.

The usual script called for quarterback Brock Purdy to restore order as he usually does — with a series of short, safe completions and a time-consuming drive that would put the Patriots back on their heels.

Instead, Purdy dropped back then dropped a perfect 53-yard rainbow into the arms of Deebo Samuel over Jonathan Jones.

Deebo's got us movin' 55yds down the field.

#NEvsSF on FOX
NFL+ // https://t.co/KTh0i4oaLh pic.twitter.com/u3vZTNGkcJ

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 29, 2024

Three plays later, Jordan Mason scored on a 4-yard run, the 49ers led 27-10 and order had been restored in an eventual 30-13 victory.

This was yet another side of Purdy, who week by week is proving to be one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks. Call this version Bombs Away Brock, as Purdy repeatedly attacked the Patriots downfield, completing 15 of 27 passes for 288 yards and a 12-yard touchdown pass to George Kittle.

That’s a gaudy 19.2 yards per completion, and they weren’t of the run-after-catch variety. Teams are wise to the 49ers attacking underneath with shallow crosses and the like, and have schemed their defenses to defend against it.

“In this game, there were a couple of plays where their safeties were low and we had guys going deep with Deebo and J.J.,” Purdy said. “We talked about it on the sideline and let it rip and I trust those guys to get under it and they did. It was nice to connect on those deeper routes, get those on tape and give us some confidence moving forward with the deep ball.”

Besides the 53-yard pass to Purdy, there was a 45-yard strike to Jauan Jennings, 38 yards to Brandon Aiyuk and a 32-yarder to Jennings. For a day at least, dink and dunk gave way to the vertical game. Purdy is more than a year removed from internal brace elbow surgery, has worked diligently to strengthen his arm and it’s clear he’s got all the zip he needs, and then some, to complete any route that is asked of him.

The 45-yard pass to Jennings against Marcus Jones was actually defended well, but the pass was a thing of beauty and virtually impossible to drop.

To hear coach Kyle Shanahan tell it, nothing Purdy does surprises him. Purdy has been his quarterback for 30 starts including the postseason. He’s learned there’s not a play he can’t call because Purdy isn’t physically up to the task.

JJ's down there somewhere

#NEvsSF on FOX
NFL+ // https://t.co/KTh0i4oaLh pic.twitter.com/aqUyQBiGov

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 29, 2024

“I think Brock, since his first game playing here, he’s good in the dropback game, the play-action game, bootlegs and stuff,” Shanahan said. “Brock has been one of the most consistent players in the league since he started playing.”

Seeing Purdy throw accurate rainbows puts defenses in a bind. If he can win over the top as easily as underneath, and attack midrange as well, it makes the 49ers passing game dangerous on every blade of grass.

“People scheme us up, and they do a good job of creating leverage and taking away certain routes, and for us it’s a good opportunity to adapt and work on different things,” Purdy said. “Every team creates a different challenge. This week was a lot of man coverage and they did a good job funneling everything back to the middle of the field.”

Purdy’s touchdown pass to Kittle came against three defenders on a route that was originally designed to be run from the 40-yard line. Kittle was skeptical, but kept his feelings to himself.

“The play was for him to break out and go up,” Purdy said. “It was more of a third-down play but we got the look down there. I saw him break out, I was getting hit, so I thought I just need to give my guy a chance. Just put it up for him. He made a great play — way better than the throw.”

That's our TE @gkittle46

#NEvsSF on FOX
NFL+ // https://t.co/KTh0i4nCVJ pic.twitter.com/2KnvF7QeFz

— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) September 29, 2024

The deep shots are only part of Purdy’s burgeoning skill set. As he displayed in last year’s playoffs, Purdy is more and more comfortable getting first downs with his feet. He measured off two perfect first-half scrambles — seven yards on third-and-3 and five yards on third-and-4 — to keep a drive alive for a 26-yard field goal by Jake Moody to open the scoring.

Last week, Purdy ended up with 10 rushes, and it’s not like Shanahan is dialing up read option plays.

“I’m not going to act like I’m going to throw and then run to make a play,” Purdy said. “It’s not like that. I’m still a quarterback. I’m trying to go through my reads and hit my guys and move the chains. That’s the position I play and I take pride in that. . . . I feel like I have just the right amount of athleticism to make plays. I don’t need to be a freak athlete. I know who I am.”

San Francisco 49ers’ Jauan Jennings (15) makes a 45-yard catch against New England Patriots’ Marcus Jones (25) in the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco 49ers starting quarterback Brock Purdy (13) throws against the New England Patriots in the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco 49ers’ Deebo Samuel Sr. (1) makes a 53-yard catch against New England Patriots’ Jonathan Jones (31) in the third quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

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The 49ers by now are amused when Purdy’s ability is disparaged in any way.

“He’s the best, man,” middle linebacker Fred Warner said. “I love how he plays the game, the leader that he is. He doesn’t say a lot but he doesn’t have to. He’s so humble in his approach and he’s continuing to get better in all phases of his game, knowing what it takes to win.”

It wasn’t perfect. Purdy was too bold with a late interception in the end zone by Jabril Peppers on a pass intended for Aiyuk, a play for which he took full responsibility.

“I think I hitched to him two or three times, which just isn’t good as a quarterback,” Purdy said. “I got greedy and Jabril made a play.”

Kittle and the 49ers will forgive the occasional mistake because it signifies the confidence Purdy has in his receivers.

“The deep ball he threw to Jauan, he just has trust in us to go out and make plays,” Kittle said. “We have a lot of talented players, a lot of guys who can catch a football. We have a lot of guys that he just trusts.”

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Published on September 29, 2024 18:43

Kurtenbach: The 49ers’ chaotic September did provide this bit of clarity

SANTA CLARA — The 49ers are going to be alright.

I think.

Don’t hold me to that.

That’s because while the Niners’ season might be four games old, if we’re being honest about the modern NFL, it’s also just getting started.

With the way NFL teams practice in the summer (if they practice at all) and their disdain for the exhibition schedule, September is, in effect, the preseason in this league. It’s a time to work things out; to find one’s identity.

And while the 49ers had an up-and-down “preseason” they are, at 2-2 after a 30-13 win over the Patriots on Sunday at Levi’s Stadium, doing just fine.

Nothing ideal. Nothing backbreaking.

Bastardizing a baseball axiom, you can’t win a division in September, but you can lose one.

And contrary to the doom-and-gloom following the Niners’ back-to-back losses in Weeks 2 and 3, there is plenty to celebrate with this team.

They found an identity, after all:

This is Brock Purdy’s team.

This is Fred Warner’s team.

It doesn’t take 25 years in the NFL to figure out that the quarterback and middle linebacker are important to team success — they’re the guys who wear the helmet speakers, after all. But four games in, the 49ers can argue they have the best quarterback-mike combo in the league.

That’s a development — an auspicious one — amid a season that has been defined, to date, by noise and nonsense.

Purdy not only looks like a franchise quarterback, but once again an MVP candidate. And he’s doing it without that other MVP candidate, Christian McCaffrey. He’s doing it without an elite defense (at least in Weeks 2 and 3). He’s doing it with an offensive line that seems hellbent on making him run for his life.

Conditions are hardly perfect, but Purdy has been pretty close to it, overall.

Purdy’s taken his game to a new level in 2023, with Sunday’s scrambling-and-deep-ball-throwing performance showing how dangerous he is to opposing defenses. No. 13 isn’t just some dude in Kyle Shanahan’s offense — he is the dude Shanahan has been waiting for since he arrived in the Bay.

“He has the confidence of when to hang in there and when to make the play work and when to break,” Shanahan said of Purdy’s Russell Wilson-like scrambling ability.

“[I] Love having that aspect [to] our offense.”

You also have Warner operating at a level far superior to anything — or anyone — I have ever seen. This is some Brian Urlacher, Ray Lewis-type stuff, only all the more impressive, because the role of the middle linebacker is so much more athletically challenging these days.

Warner is not only the best run-stopping linebacker in the game, slipping past blocks with stunning ease and delivering the kind of hits that make seasoned professionals question their line of work, but he’s also the best pass-coverage linebacker going, too.

San Francisco 49ers’ Fred Warner (54) returns an interception for a touchdown against the New England Patriots in the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

His interception on Sunday, which gave the Niners an early 13-0 lead, was as impressive an individual defensive play as you will ever see: Warner read quarterback Jacoby Brissett like a kid’s book, abandoning his initial responsibility to go to where he knew Brissett would throw the ball.

Rising up like a video-game linebacker circa the early aughts (my fellow millennials know about this), Warner not only made an insane catch, but, despite landing on his tuchus, he was able to get up before being touched and run 45 yards into the end zone, stretching the ball over the goal line like he was George Kittle.

It all happened so fast that the otherworldliness of the play could have been overlooked. But let’s be clear: Linebackers aren’t supposed to be able to do stuff like that.

Especially not linebackers, who, the play before, delivered a hit so hard on Patriots running back Antonio Gibson, you could hear the pads crack in the press box, roughly a thousand feet above the field.

Warner is beyond appointment television. He’s the kind of player that requires you to be in the stadium to fully understand. The higher you are in the stands, the more you can comprehend how otherworldly this specter of a player is.

I know TJ Watt is having a great season in Pittsburgh, and I know we’re less than a quarter of the way through the season, but if Warner isn’t the clubhouse leader for the Defensive Player of the Year, we need to find a new voting bloc.

And then there’s the outstanding play of Jordan Mason (on pace for nearly 1,900 yards this season), Jauan Jennings (back-to-back games where he’s been the Niners’ top receiver), and Nick Bosa (still as fine a defensive end as there is in the league).

There’s plenty to be optimistic about with the Niners.

Of course, there’s also the downsides.

The injuries — my god, the injuries.

It was easy to predict that the Niners, one of the NFL’s oldest teams, which played 20 games last season, wouldn’t be able to repeat their good luck with injuries in 2024.

But the pendulum has swung so swiftly in the opposite direction, so quickly, it’s downright comical.

And there’s no reason to think it will stop anytime soon. These injury gods are vengeful and relentless.

San Francisco 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey (23) walks on the field after the San Francisco 49ers 30-13 win over the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

They already claimed McCaffrey and Javon Hargrave, and have smitten Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, Trent Williams, and now Dominck Puni.

Oh, and we’ll see what they did to Warner, who only played one half Sunday (he still led the Niners in tackles for three-plus quarters), because of an ankle injury.

“I know Fred tried to go… but didn’t feel like he could,” Shanahan said.

“I would have been out there if I could have been,” Warner, who was seen on the sideline needing multiple Niners’ staffers to stop him from going on the field. “We’ll see.”

The Niners have managed the storm of injuries. To a passing degree, they’ve handled the contract-negotiation nonsense of the offseason and training camp (though Brandon Aiyuk’s reputation has not).

A long-term injury to Warner might be the one thing this team cannot overcome.

“We’ll see,” indeed.

But if Warner remains at the top of his game, week-in, week-out, and Purdy keeps tapping into his seemingly bottomless bag of tricks, the 49ers will be just fine.

Perhaps that will disappoint you and them — after all, there were high hopes about this team.

But on Sunday, the Niners’ season was on the line. There would have been no returning from a home loss to the Patriots — that’s disqualifying.

Purdy and Warner came through. The Niners followed suit.

You can’t ask for much more, at least at this juncture.

The Niners are in good hands, and while they have little slack for the final 13 games of the campaign, they still have everything to play for.

San Francisco 49ers’ Kevin Givens (90) sacks New England Patriots starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) in the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco 49ers’ Maliek Collins (99) celebrates his turnover with teammates against the New England Patriots in the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco 49ers’ Nick Bosa (97) pressures New England Patriots starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) in the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco 49ers’ Kyle Juszczyk (44) is tackled by New England Patriots’ Josh Uche (55) in the second quarter at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. (Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group)

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Published on September 29, 2024 18:11

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