Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 401
August 2, 2024
Steph Curry gets autographs from Bay Area table tennis stars at Paris Olympics
Steph Curry has been pumping up the American table tennis team since the Olympics started.
Friday, he got a chance to meet the players.
Lily Zhang, Rachel Sung, Amy Wang and Kanak Jha were in attendance at Team USA’s basketball practice ahead of a Saturday matchup with Puerto Rico. When practice was over, Curry walked over to the table tennis stars with a ping pong ball and asked for the entire team to autograph it. The players seemed stunned but promptly signed the ball for the Warriors legend.
Steph got his table tennis ball signed by the entire @usatabletennis team!
@StephenCurry30 x #USABMNT pic.twitter.com/q6aSr58G59
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) August 2, 2024
Zhang, who grew up in Palo Alto and went to Cal, just completed her fourth Olympics. This time, she made it to the Round of 16, the furthest any American woman has made it at Olympic table tennis.
In attendance at her Round of 32 victory was NBA star Anthony Edwards, who had previously been talking smack at the opening ceremony, when he insisted he’d be able to take one point off any of the table tennis Olympians.
Curry assured him he would not score a single point.
Zhang, an Olympian since she was 16, told the New York Times this sort of thing happens all the time. While at Cal, she said there’d be “frat guys” constantly challenging her, and once in a while she’d give them the privilege of playing opposite an Olympian.
“I’d hustle them a little, give them a little,” the 28-year-old said, “and then destroy their egos.”
Jha, from Milpitas, was also defeated in the Round of 16, but not before making history as the first American man to make it that far.
Sung, from San Jose, will pair up with Wang in women’s doubles. Their first match is against Germany on Tuesday at 1 a.m. PT.
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Summer Olympics: Team USA basketball coach Steve Kerr reacts to playing time controversy
Steve Kerr has guided Team USA to back-to-back blowout victories at the Summer Olympics in Paris, but back home, the coach is facing backlash.
Stephen A. Smith hammered Kerr on ESPN’s First Take on Friday for not using Jayson Tatum in the Americans’ 26-point win over Serbia in their first game last weekend.
Smith said Kerr’s rotations have created problems and that not using Tatum was “insulting” to the Boston Celtics star who recently led his NBA team to a championship.
Still, the longtime Warriors coach didn’t seem bothered when asked about the criticism of his playing time decisions on Friday.
“It doesn’t make a whole lot of sense for us to put our five leading scorers on the floor from an NBA season because those guys don’t complement each other well,” he told reporters in France. “Just coaching basketball, it’s pretty simple for us, regardless of all the noise.”
Former 13-time NBA All-Star Dwyane Wade, now working the sidelines for NBC in Paris, defended Kerr this week, noting that few could’ve expected Kevin Durant to return from a calf injury, come off the bench and put together “one of the greatest Olympic performances ever.” Durant’s unexpected dominance forced Kerr to change his rotations, Wade speculated.
In the Americans’ second game, a 17-point win over South Sudan on Wednesday, Tatum was in the starting lineup and scored four points in 17 minutes.
Kerr previously said it was a mistake not to use Tatum in Game 1.
“Definitely a humbling experience, right?” Tatum told The Athletic of being benched in Game 1. “Win a championship, new contract, cover of (NBA) 2K (video game) and then you sit a whole game. Cover of Sports Illustrated. So it was definitely a humbling experience.”
Related ArticlesOlympics | Paris Olympics: Here’s what’s on TV Saturday, Aug. 3 Olympics | Olympics Saturday schedule: Sha’Carri Richardson, Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky go for gold Olympics | Chasing Olympic gold in the shot put becomes a family mission for Joe and Ashley Kovacs Olympics | Extreme weather hits Paris, highlighting Olympics’ vulnerability to climate change Olympics | The Snoop Olympics: Paris proving a boon to NBC after interest waned in Tokyo, Beijing gamesThere were more questions after Kerr never used 2022-23 NBA MVP Joel Embid in Game 2. Kerr later said it was because he wanted more speed on the floor.
Kerr said he expected there to be controversy, but noted that the players understand the ultimate goal of winning a gold medal is bigger than individual glory.
“We have an embarrassment of riches on the roster, that’s the best way to put it,” Kerr said. “These guys are all champions, All-Stars, Hall of Famers. The whole thing is, are we committed to the goal? That’s it.
“I always tell our guys with the Warriors, the reason they pay us a lot of money is there’s so much interest worldwide in what we do. So you can’t have it both ways. You can’t accept your salary and then get mad at social media or all the coverage. That’s why we’re in this position.”
Team USA is back on the court on Saturday against Puerto Rico at 8:15 a.m. PT. Kerr already announced his lineup: LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Jrue Holiday and Embiid.
Mark Canha, Jerar Encarnacion join SF Giants as team seeks offensive spark
CINCINNATI — Mark Canha was in the car with his wife and two kids, on their way home from Comerica Park with about 20 minutes to go until Tuesday’s 3 p.m. PT trade deadline, when a familiar name came illuminated his phone screen.
“My wife was sitting next to me and I’m driving. I look down and there’s a text from BoMel. I’m like, ‘Hey, check that. It’s Bob.’ He mentioned that they were trying to get me. So we instantly got pretty excited,” Canha said Friday from Great American Ballpark, “and then it happened. We were all pretty happy about that.”
Canha, who attended Bellarmine Prep and Cal, said he grew up rooting for the Giants and that between his local ties and preexisting relationships, “it just kind of felt like all the pieces fell into the right place for me.”
The Giants sent minor-league reliever Eric Silva to Detroit to get the deal across the finish line, and Canha made his club debut three days later to begin their series against the Reds, batting second and playing first base against left-hander Andrew Abbott.
Acquired to fill the role typically held by Wilmer Flores as a platoon partner for LaMonte Wade Jr. and a late-inning substitution against left-handed relievers, Canha represented the most notable acquisition at the trade deadline for a team that president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi said he “100%” expects to make the playoffs.
But the 35-year-old San Jose native wasn’t the only new face in the visitors’ clubhouse as the club overhauled its lineup in search of a spark after mounting just three runs on nine hits while splitting their two-game series against the A’s to close their homestand.
The Giants also called up power-hitting outfielder Jerar Encarnacion while optioning David Villar and Blake Sabol back to Triple-A Sacramento and designating outfielder Derek Hill for assignment. Right-hander Sean Hjelle was also reinstated from the bereavement list.
Encarnacion, 26, began the season playing for Oaxaca in the Mexican League after not hearing from one major-league organization after his contract with the Miami Marlins expired last winter. He hit 19 home runs in 26 games, getting the attention of the Giants and a handful of other teams, and has only kept slugging since joining Sacramento’s roster in mid-June. In 33 games, he has homered 10 times while batting .352 with a 1.054 OPS.
“We’re really interested in seeing what he’s got to offer today because the numbers have been off the charts,” Melvin said. “We’ve been a little lacking in some power and some home run type capability. He’s definitely got that.”
Never ranked among the Marlins top 10 prospects by Baseball America during his time in the organization, he received a brief look in the majors in 2022 but hit .182 while striking out 32 times in 81 plate appearances. At Sacramento, he struck out 34 times in 141 trips to the plate while drawing 18 walks.
“There’s been some swing changes. In development we really focus on swing decisions. I think that’s been pounded home to him a little bit as well,” Melvin said. “Anybody with his type of power, there are going to be some strikeouts, but he has cut down, and if he gets a good pitch to hit and puts it in play, he usually does some damage.”
Coming from Detroit, it made more sense for Canha to meet the team in Cincinnati rather than travel back and forth across three time zones. But don’t think the idea of putting on the Giants’ home creams and playing in front of the home crowd at Oracle Park hasn’t already crossed his mind.
On top of his memorable home run in 2018 — after which he declared “This is my house!” — Canha has a .942 OPS in 18 career games in San Francisco.
“Not that I need it, but I think there’s just a little bit of extra (motivation) there for me when I come into Oracle,” Canha said. “It’s the park I came to as a kid. It’s going to be a lot of fun. I’ve always wanted to wear a Giants uniform. It’s a special place for me. I’m sure the first night we’re back at home I’ll have some goosebumps, for sure.”
The Giants landed in Cincinnati at about 7 p.m. local time Thursday night, and Canha was already there waiting for them.
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And, no, Canha smiled, the cuisine of choice was not Cincinnati’s famous spaghetti noodles topped with chili.
“Walking to breakfast this morning I saw people leaving Skyline Chili at like 10:30 in the morning,” Canha said, shuddering. “I just, uh, I’ve never had Skyline Chili, but it doesn’t, uh, catch my interest. Let’s put it that way. Maybe I’d be surprised.”
NotablePitching coach Bryan Price did not accompany the team on the trip to Cincinnati as he deals with a family health issue, the team said. Melvin said assistant pitching coach J.P. Martinez will take on the duties typically handled by Price, who managed the Reds for five seasons from 2014-18.
Pacific Grove mayor pulls out of 2024 election, will not seek another term
Pacific Grove Mayor Bill Peake will not seek re-election this year. He took his name off the 2024 ballot and effectively ended his bid.
Peake has been mayor of Pacific Grove since 2018, and was originally on this year’s ballot. However, he made the decision to step away from council and will be focusing on other endeavors.
“This will allow me to devote more time to family, staying healthy and personal pursuits,” Peake said. “Deciding not to continue comes with mixed feelings. I greatly enjoy being a part of council and working for the well being of our community.”
Peake said multiple people have asked him to reconsider, but he is going to watch the next election from the sidelines and encourages votes for Mayor Pro Tem Nick Smith.
“There’s a time for people to step down or move on and I believe that the community will be well served if they elect Nick Smith,” Peake said.
Peake was elected to the city council in 2014, before running for mayor and winning in 2018. As a council member he served on the Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority Board, Technical Advisory Committee, Access Monterey Peninsula Board and Monterey County Emergency Policy Communications Advisory Council.
Prior to his time on city council, Peake served on the Recreation Board from 2011 to 2014, and was secretary on the Heritage Society of Pacific Grove Board from 2013 to 2016.
Peake’s municipal work was instrumental in helping create a Point Pinos Coastal Trail, and serving on the fundraising committee for the Stillwell Children’s Pool at Lovers Point.
He has also shared his passion for Pacific Grove’s environment and ecosystem through his efforts volunteering at Chamber of Commerce events and city park gardening activities. He has also volunteered with the restoration efforts at Point Pinos Lighthouse for the last 14 years.
Peake said his volunteer work will continue and he is looking forward to finding more organizations to join.
“I’m thinking there’s a lot of great volunteer opportunities here, and we’ll see where I can volunteer just in town,” Peake said. “Of course, we have the museum as a great example.”
Paris Olympics: Here’s what’s on TV Saturday, Aug. 3
Here is the Paris Olympics TV schedule for Saturday, Aug. 3.
Highlights include the U.S. women’s soccer team vs. Japan in the quarterfinals (6 a.m., soccer channel, Telemundo) and the U.S. men’s basketball team vs. Puerto Rico, (8:15 a.m., NBC). In track and field, Ryan Crouser seeks gold in the shot put and Sha’Carri Richardson runs the 100, (10:15 a.m., NBC). And in the individual event finals in gymnastics, Simone Biles is favored to win the vault (7:20 a.m., NBC).
ARCHERY3 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Beach volleyball and archery4:50 a.m.
E! — Archery, Soccer8 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Boxing and gymnasticsBADMINTON10:30 a.m.
CNBC — Women’s Doubles Gold FinalBASKETBALL8:15 a.m.
NBC — Men’s Group C: Puerto Rico vs. USA10 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Basketball12:05 p.m.
CNBC — Men’s Group C: Serbia vs. South Sudan3 p.m.
USA — Men’s Group C: Puerto Rico vs. USA5 p.m.
USA — Men’s Group C: Serbia vs. South SudanBASKETBALL 3X311:35 p.m.
NBC — NBC Late Night (Aug. 2)9:45 a.m.
CNBC — Pool Play1 p.m.
USA — Women’s Play-In RoundBEACH VOLLEYBALL11 p.m.
USA — Pool PlayMidnight
USA — Pool Play3 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Beach volleyball and tennis1:45 p.m.
CNBC — Lucky LoserBOXING8 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Boxing and gymnastics9:15 a.m.
CNBC — Men’s Feather Quarterfinals & more11:30 a.m.
CNBC — Men’s QuarterfinalsCANOEING6:30 a.m.
USA — Slalom: Men’s & Women’s Kayak Cross Heats8:45 a.m.
USA — Slalom: Kayak Cross HeatsCYCLING11:35 p.m.
NBC — NBC Late Night (Aug. 2)2 a.m.
CNBC — Men’s Road RaceEQUESTRIANNoon
E! — Dressage: Team FinalFENCING3:45 a.m.
E! — Women’s Team Sabre Quarterfinals10 a.m.
E! — Women’s Team Sabre Bronze/Gold FinalsFIELD HOCKEY4:15 a.m.
USA — Women’s Pool B: USA vs. South AfricaGOLFMidnight
GOLF — Men’s Round 3: Part 14 a.m.
GOLF — Men’s Round 3: Part 2GYMNASTICS6:15 a.m.
E! — Men’s & Women’s Apparatus Finals7:20 a.m.
NBC — Women’s Vault Final8 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — mpicos Paris 2024 – Boxeo, Tiro al Arco y Gimnasia2:30 p.m.
NBC — Men’s Apparatus Finals8 p.m.
NBC — Primetime in Paris (Aug. 3)HANDBALL7 p.m.
USA — Women’s Group PlayROWING9:30 a.m.
USA — Finals: Eights & more12:45 p.m.
NBC — Finals: Single Sculls, EightSHOOTING8:45 a.m.
CNBC — Men’s Skeet, Women’s 25m Pistol FinalsSOCCER4:50 a.m.
E! — Archery, Soccer6 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — U.S. women vs. Japan8 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Spain women vs. Colombia8:50 a.m.
E! — Women’s Quarterfinal10 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Canada women vs. GermanyNoon
UNIVERSO — France women vs. BrazilSWIMMING2 a.m.
USA — Heats: Women’s 50m Free & more10:15 a.m.
NBC — Track & field and swimmingNoon
TELEMUNDO — Track & field and swimming8 p.m.
NBC — Primetime in Paris (Aug. 3)TABLE TENNIS5:45 a.m.
USA — Women’s Singles: Gold FinalTRACK & FIELD1 a.m.
E! — Heats: Men’s 100m & more10:10 a.m.
USA — Finals: Women’s 100m & more10:15 a.m.
NBC — Track & Field & Swimming8 p.m.
NBC — Primetime in Paris (Aug. 3)VOLLEYBALL111 p.m.
USA — Men’s Pool Play5 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Voleibol y TenisWATER POLO7:30 a.m.
USA — Men’s Group: Montenegro vs. USA8 p.m.
USA — Men’s Group: Montenegro vs. USARelated ArticlesOlympics | Olympics Saturday schedule: Sha’Carri Richardson, Simone Biles and Katie Ledecky go for gold Olympics | Chasing Olympic gold in the shot put becomes a family mission for Joe and Ashley Kovacs Olympics | Extreme weather hits Paris, highlighting Olympics’ vulnerability to climate change Olympics | The Snoop Olympics: Paris proving a boon to NBC after interest waned in Tokyo, Beijing games Olympics | Flavor Flav helps Olympic discus thrower Veronica Fraley who said she struggles to pay the rent49ers camp: Top 10 observations at practice as Pearsall impresses
SANTA CLARA – Ricky Pearsall is quickly making a strong first impression in his first 49ers training camp, even if a hamstring injury delayed his arrival by nearly a week.
There he is making a one-handed catch on the sideline of a deflected pass and keeping his feet inbounds, with linebacker Dee Winters draped on him. “Gotta stay with it,” Pearsall says.
There’s him hustling on downfield blocks – far away from the ball — on both run and pass plays. “It’s been cool to watch him in the run game. He definitely understands our standards,” coach Kyle Shanahan said. “It’s not someone we have to call on and say we need more. He gets it.”
Even cornerback Isaac Yiadom admits he is a “big fan” of Pearsall. “I don’t like to compliment rookies too much, but I like his game,” Yiadom said. “He’s got some confidence in him, too. He’s got some dog in him. He knows it and I just hope that he continues to work.”
A bigger challenge comes Saturday when Pearsall will enter one-on-one drills with cornerbacks for the first time this camp.
Spring’s non-contact workouts saw Pearsall develop instant chemistry with Brock Purdy, and that bond is enhanced with banter on and off the field. “His locker is right next to mine, so I get to talk to him each and every day, just going up to him and having a normal conversation, what can I get better at?” Pearsall said. “Once you start seeing it through a quarterback’s lens, it becomes that much easier for a receiver.”
Pearsall had no catches or targets in Friday’s 11-on-11 drills, but had three on Wednesday, including a third-down touchdown. He acknowledged that Shanahan’s offense comes with a demanding learning curve, but that he’s made breakthroughs after spring’s initiation. And when it comes to tutors, he’s leaned from not just Deebo Samuel (an offseason training partner in Arizona), but also Brandon Aiyuk, a freshman teammate at Arizona State who is at camp and not practicing amid a contract dispute.
AIYUK UPDATE
Some 48 hours after Aiyuk walked onto the practice field and happily greeted Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, no new deal had been announced with Aiyuk, who again watched Friday’s practice from afar in a cart. What was the deal with the public display of affection Wednesday? Said Shanahan: “That’s usually how we greet each other. Honestly. … Bro hug, nothing more.” The coach had no further updates on Aiyuk’s contract impasse nor that of left tackle Trent Williams, who’s been a no-show since camp started.
PURDY’S PICKS
Purdy went a second straight practice without a pass getting intercepted, after seven were picked over back-to-back days earlier in the week. “Brock’s never really had an interception problem,” Shanahan said. “He’s protected the ball pretty well in this league for his two years. He also isn’t scared to let it rip, too.” Purdy’s thrown 15 interceptions in 614 regular-season passes (2.4%), and just one in 171 playoff throws, with that one coming in January’s NFC Championship Game win over Detroit.
YIADOM’S ARRIVAL
Yiadom, a seventh-year pro on his sixth team, looks to have established himself as the No. 3 cornerback behind starters Charvarius Ward and Deommodore Lenoir, the latter of whom slides inside as the nickel back when Yiadom enters.
“It’s a winning team. It’s a great franchise. You don’t decline an offer to play for a team like this,” Yiadom said of his free agency move from the New Orleans Saints. “I know they have such a great defense. To come in here and play a main role with these players, Bosa, Fred, those type of guys, I couldn’t pass that up.”
HEALTH CENTER
Left guard Aaron Banks (back spasms) and wide receiver Jauan Jennings (ankle) worked on the side and are expected back soon to team drills. … Right guard Spencer Burford will not undergo surgery on his fractured right hand and will miss a few weeks, Shanahan said. … Tight end Logan Thomas (hamstring) did not practice Friday. … Offensive lineman Jon Feliciano (knee) took part in his first team drills, including time at center. … Defensive end Nick Bosa and running back Christian McCaffrey did not practice as part of their load management.
CENTER ADDED, HURT
Veteran center Pat Elfein hobbled off with a right-calf injury mere minutes into his first 49ers practice, after signing a one-year deal to compete for a backup role behind Jake Brendel. The 49ers have auditioned several centers over the first week of practices: Ben Bartch, Drake Nugent, Nick Zakelj and, upon his return Friday, Jon Feliciano. Briason Mays was waived in a corresponding roster move.
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PRAISE FOR PUNI
Rookie Dominick Puni practiced as the first-string right guard for a sixth consecutive practice. “You can tell he’s made of the right stuff and he has what it takes. Hopefully he’ll continue to progress,” Shanahan said of the third-round pick out of Kansas.
LATU’S GAFFE
Tight end Cam Latu made a catch in team drills for a third straight practice, only this time, he fumbled the ball on the offense’s final snap of practice. Linebacker Tatum Bethune appeared to force it and safety Tayler Hawkins recovered for a would-be touchdown return. Earlier in practice, Latu struggled to shed Yiadom’s stiff-arm on a run play.
MOODY MISSES
Jake Moody’s near-perfect camp includes just two missed field-goal attempts, the second one coming on a 50-yard-ish attempt to close Friday’s practice.
OTHER OBSERVATIONS
General manager John Lynch watched practice, and did so in part next to Mike Shanahan, rather than travel Friday with Frank Gore to the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement of Patrick Willis and others on Saturday. … Ambry Thomas broke up a deep pass Josh Dobbs intended for Danny Gray. … Defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos lined up on the first-string in place of Bosa, showed great pursuit to force a Purdy throw-away, and broke down the team huddle to end practice. … Deebo Samuel followed an end-around run by getting open deep but Purdy overthrew him in the end zone. Samuel also returned a kickoff and found an open crease. … Jordan Mason fumbled a handoff that Javon Hargrave recovered. … Trent Taylor dove for the catch of the day on a 20-yard pass by Brandon Allen.
Kaiser Permanente readies health plan, clinic, for north Monterey County
SALINAS – Kaiser Permanente, the California-based integrated managed care consortium, is bringing its brand of medical services to northern Monterey County with enrollment in its commercial health plan for 2025 available later this summer.
“We are excited to expand into Monterey County, bringing Kaiser Permanente’s high-quality health care to the community,” said Eric Henry, FACHE, senior vice president and area manager for the Kaiser Permanente Central Coast service area, in a press release. “Kaiser Permanente will continue our partnerships, investments and support of non-profit organizations to create a strong safety net for those in need.”
Kaiser Permanente is positioning itself to increase community health care access by offering coverage and medical care in Monterey County including primary and specialty care, pediatrics, OB/GYN care, mental health care, laboratory, radiology and pharmacy services. Additionally, the health care provider will also offer a full range of virtual care capabilities and mail-order pharmacy options that will provide flexibility for patients.
North Monterey County is an area that includes unincorporated communities such as Pajaro, Aromas, Las Lomas, Elkhorn, Moss Landing, Castroville and Prunedale.
A Kaiser Permanente spokesperson said it is offering its high-quality health care coverage and medical services to residents living in northern Monterey County, which includes the Salinas area. The first medical office building, which offers a full-range of medical services, will open in Salinas in January 2025.
Since earlier this year, Kaiser has been converting a more than 30,500-square-foot retail building in north Salinas into a medical facility on a 2.68-acre site with about 100 parking spaces.
Kaiser Permanente plans to open a medical office in Salinas at the Boronda Crossing shopping center, 1930 N. Davis Road, after the first of the year, staffed by Kaiser Permanente physicians. Hospital-based care and services will be offered through Watsonville Community Hospital, an award-winning, public, non-profit community health care provider, which Kaiser Permanente has partnered with since 2017.
Watsonville Community Hospital, near the community of Pajaro and across the county line in Santa Cruz County, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late 2021 and was to be auctioned in late February 2022. But urgency legislation in the form of Senate Bill 418 was brought forward by State Senator John Laird and coauthored by state Assemblyman and current Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas, Assemblyman Mark Stone and State Senator Anna Caballero. The bill was passed unanimously by the state Assembly and Senate in early February 2022 and Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it into law establishing the Pajaro Valley Healthcare District.
The nonprofit health care district was created to advocate for community-led health care services and the purchase of Watsonville Community Hospital to transition it to community ownership and governance. Its board of directors includes leadership from Santa Cruz County, the city of Watsonville, Community Health Trust of Pajaro Valley and Salud Para La Gente.
Kaiser Permanente says it is bringing its high-quality coverage and excellent medical care to Monterey County in response to demand from members and prospective members. It is recognized as a health care industry leader in the nation and in California for providing high-quality, affordable and equitable health care to members and patients, according to the health care provider.
The Kaiser spokesperson said the organization is excited that there is such interest across the county for its services. Kaiser Permanente is continuously looking for opportunities to better meet the needs of its members, potential members and support the communities it serves. And Kaiser Permanente will continue to explore areas where it can offer health care services.
Kaiser Permanente has the highest rated health plan in the state for overall quality and is also rated highest by members for care and service experience, according to the health plan ratings for 2024 by Covered California – the state’s health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act.
Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s health plan also received the highest rating in the state for providing patients with high-quality clinical care and behavioral and mental health care in the annual Health Care Quality Report Card from California’s Office of the Patient Advocate.
In addition, Insure.com rated Kaiser Permanente at the top of its Best Health Insurance Companies of 2024 list. Kaiser Permanente also earned the top rating for affordability, customer satisfaction and trustworthiness.
Since earlier this year, Kaiser has been converting a more than 30,500-square-foot retail building at the Boronda Crossing shipping center in north Salinas into a medical facility on a 2.68-acre site with about 100 parking spaces.“We are excited at the opportunity for people in Salinas to have more meaningful health care options in our community,” said Salinas Mayor Kimbley Craig, in the release. “The opening of Kaiser Permanente in Salinas will certainly benefit not just our residents, but all of Monterey County.”
An important part of Kaiser Permanente’s mission is to improve the health of the communities it serves, including Monterey County, according to Kaiser Permanente. Since 2022 it has invested more than $1 million in local grants and sponsorships in the county.
Many Kaiser Permanente members and employees already live in the local community, says the organization. New and existing Covered California members will be able to sign up for Kaiser Permanente through Covered California.
“Kaiser Permanente is recognized for being one of the nation’s leading health care providers with an integrated care delivery system that allows for seamless, coordinated care across primary and specialty care,” said Meena Pai, MD, physician in chief of the San Jose and Central Coast areas, in the release. “We look forward to expanding this exceptional care to the Monterey County community.”
Kaiser Permanente is one of the nation’s largest not-for-profit health plans, serving 12.6 million members, according to its website. It was founded in 1945 and is headquartered in Oakland, and comprises Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and its subsidiaries, and the Permanente Medical Groups. It has 40 hospitals, 618 medical offices, about 23,000 physicians, 68,000 nurses and 215,000 employees. Kaiser Permanente’s annual operating revenue in 2023 was $101 billion.
The Kaiser spokesperson said its new website, kp.org/HelloMonterey, will continue to be updated to help provide the latest information for the community.
Horoscopes Aug. 2, 2024: Sam Worthington, put your energy where it counts
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Hallie Eisenberg, 32; Sam Worthington, 48; Kevin Smith, 54; Mary-Louise Parker, 60.
Happy Birthday: Keep an open mind and prepare to be surprised this year. You’ll discover all sorts of exciting information to help you decide which path is best for you. Being ready to put your energy where it counts will bring the highest return emotionally, intellectually and creatively. It’s time to explore using the skills and attributes you enjoy most in a pleasing, helpful and fulfilling manner. Your numbers are 8, 14, 21, 26, 35, 38, 46.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Invest time and money in your interests, happiness and prospects. Reach out to experts, expand your mind and participate in something that intrigues you. The people you encounter or spend time with will enhance your life and help you fulfill your dreams. Romance is favored. 2 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Stick close to home and make changes to improve your living arrangements. Don’t argue with someone who isn’t going to see things your way. Focus on what you can accomplish. Adopt patience and abolish stubbornness. 4 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Tune into what interests you and discover something about yourself that makes sense and encourages you to refine your life. Consider what bores you and eliminate it from your daily routine. Make wise decisions, delegate what doesn’t interest you and live life your way. 3 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Last-minute changes will save you money. Step outside your comfort zone and let your imagination take you on a journey. Explore new interests, meet new people and discover what brings you joy. Let the past go, modify and present your goals, and welcome what’s yet to come. 3 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Look for opportunities and follow through. A change may not excite you, but it will help you eliminate pending problems dragging you down. Embrace what excites you and live in the moment and for the future instead of hanging on to the past. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): A change of attitude, location or direction will help you realize what you are missing. Reach out to groups of interest, and you’ll find a place that makes you feel you belong. Develop new skills that will aid you in securing a path you want to pursue. 4 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Take pleasure in discovery. Delve into hobbies that fascinate you and prompt you to learn something new. Refuse to let anyone make you feel guilty for enjoying yourself or taking a break. The time you invest in something you enjoy will enrich your life and prospects. 2 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Choose intelligence over bravado. How you handle professional or financial matters will determine your reputation and the chance to advance. Mixing business with pleasure will encourage goodwill and opportunities. A change of heart someone reveals will take you by surprise. Be supportive but cautious. 5 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Gauge what’s happening around you. You’ll get a false impression from someone trying to talk you into an investment or joint venture. Don’t believe everything you hear or let your guard down when dealing with emotional matters. Protect your assets, possessions and reputation. 3 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You’ll do your best to stick to what and who you know. Be smart when dealing with investments or joint ventures. Avoid situations that can compromise your position or goal. Put your energy into personal growth, nurturing meaningful relationships and maintaining stability. 3 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t hold back; apply pressure to reach your objective where necessary. Home improvements will require attention. Take the initiative to do the prep work to lower overhead and ensure you get the desired results. Romance and personal improvement are favored. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Keep your plans and life simple. Consider options thoroughly, and avoid spontaneous decisions that can backfire and cost you emotionally, financially or physically. Avoid situations that test your patience and loyalty. Know when to say no and who to avoid. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are engaging, playful and changeable. You are creative and social.
1 star: Avoid conflicts; work behind the scenes. 2 stars: You can accomplish, but don’t rely on others. 3 stars: Focus and you’ll reach your goals. 4 stars: Aim high; start new projects. 5 stars: Nothing can stop you; go for gold.
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August 1, 2024
Apartment complex fire breaks out in Carmel Valley, one injured
CARMEL VALLEY >> The Monterey County Regional Fire District responded to a structure fire Thursday afternoon in Carmel Valley affecting multiple residential buildings.
The fire was reported at the Airport Apartments in Carmel Valley near 100 Ford Road. The report was made at around 12:40 p.m.
Three buildings, each with four units, were affected by the fire. The building in the center of the complex is where the fire broke out, while eight other units were filled with smoke.
Fire Prevention Specialist Matthew Lumadue of the Fire District said the middle building where the fire broke out suffered the most damage and people will not be able to return to their homes there.
“The fire was contained to the center building,” Lumadue said. “The four units in the center building have been deemed uninhabitable. The other two buildings, each with four units, had minor smoke exposure and will be inhabitable still.”
One resident was injured in the fire and taken by ambulance to the Natividad Medical Center for burn injuries. One firefighter was also injured and taken to the hospital, but not in emergency transport.
One canine also perished in the fire and firefighters were able to save a few other pets including reptiles.
The investigation into what caused the fire remains ongoing. It is unclear how many people have been displaced.
Paris Olympics: Here’s what’s on TV on Friday, Aug. 2
Here is the Paris Olympics TV schedule for Friday, Aug. 2.
Highlights include Day 2 of track and field, including the men’s 10,000-meter final, the U.S. men’s soccer team in the quarterfinals against Morocco (6 a.m., USA) and swimming finals in the women’s 200 back and 200 IM, and men’s 50 free.
ARCHERY6:15 a.m.
USA — Mixed Team: SemifinalsBADMINTON11 p.m.
USA — Mixed Doubles Semifinals7:10 a.m.
USA — Mixed Doubles Gold FinalBASKETBALL4:30 a.m.
USA — Men’s Group A: Australia vs. Greece5 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Basketball8 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Basketball2:50 p.m.
E! — Men’s Group B: France vs. GermanyBASKETBALL 3X311:35 p.m.
NBC — NBC Late Night (Aug. 1)1:30 a.m.
USA — Men’s Pool Play9 a.m.
NBC — Women’s Pool Play1:45 p.m.
E! — Men’s Pool PlayBEACH VOLLEYBALLMidnight
USA — Pool Play3 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Beach volleyball and swimming4 a.m.
E! — Pool Play7 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Beach volleyball8:10 a.m.
USA — Pool Play1 p.m.
NBC — Pool PlayBOXINGNoon
TELEMUNDO — Boxing and swimming2 p.m.
USA — Men’s Fly Quarterfinals & moreCANOEING11:35 p.m.
NBC — NBC Late Night (Aug. 1)9 a.m.
USA — Slalom: Kayak Cross HeatsCYCLING2 p.m.
UNIVERSO — BMX2:30 p.m.
USA — Finals: BMX RacingDIVING8 p.m.
NBC — Primetime in Paris (Aug. 2)EQUESTRIAN5 a.m.
E! — Jumping: Team Final6 p.m.
USA — Jumping: Team FinalFENCING2:15 p.m.
E! — Men’s Team Epee Bronze/Gold FinalsGOLFMidnight
GOLF — Men’s Round 2: Part 14 a.m.
GOLF — Men’s Round 2: Part 2HANDBALL5 p.m.
USA — Men’s Group PlayROWING4 a.m.
USA — Finals: Lightweight Sculls & more10:45 a.m.
USA — Finals: Lightweight Sculls & moreSHOOTING1 a.m.
USA — Women’s Rifle 3 Positions FinalSOCCER6 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Men’s quarterfinal – USA vs. MoroccoUSA — Men’s quarterfinal – USA vs. Morocco8 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Men’s quarterfinal – Japan vs. Spain10 a.m.
TELEMUNDO — Men’s quarterfinal – Egypt vs. ParaguayNoon
UNIVERSO — Men’s quarterfinal – France vs. Argentina2 p.m.
USA — Men’s Quarterfinal – France vs. ArgentinaSWIMMING2 a.m.
USA — Heats: Men’s 100m Fly & more9:30 a.m.
NBC — Heats: Men’s 100m Fly & more10 a.m.
NBC — Swimming, Track & FieldNoon
TELEMUNDO — Boxing and swimming8 p.m.
NBC — Primetime in Paris (Aug. 2)TRACK & FIELD1 a.m.
E! — Heats: Women’s 100m & more9 a.m.
E! — Finals: Men’s 10,000m & more10 a.m.
NBC — Swimming, Track & Field8 p.m.
NBC — Primetime in Paris (Aug. 2)TRAMPOLINE7:15 a.m.
E! — Women’s Qualification & Final11:15 a.m.
USA — Men’s FinalVOLLEYBALL10 a.m.
UNIVERSO — Men’s pool playNoon
USA — Men’s Pool Play2 p.m.
NBC — Men’s Pool PlayWATER POLO9:30 a.m.
USA — Women’s Group: USA vs. France8 p.m.
USA — Women’s Group: USA vs. FranceRelated ArticlesOlympics | What to watch: Sha’Carri Richardson makes Olympic debut Friday Olympics | Paris Olympics Day 6: Simone Biles shines for all-around gold; Summer McIntosh wins another medal Olympics | Simone Biles’ gold, by the numbers Olympics | Horse racing leaders consider Paris Olympics equestrian scandal a lesson for their sport Olympics | Nothing could go wrong: The story behind the Paris Olympics cauldron balloon
