Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 439

June 24, 2024

Barry Bonds among SF Giants who pay tribute to late Willie Mays at Oracle Park

SAN FRANCISCO – Barry Bonds and Michael Mays, the godson and son of the late and great Willie Mays, stood a few feet from one another before the Giants played host to the Cubs on Monday night.

Both watched their loved one be remembered and honored in the town Mays, who died last week at age 93, called home for over 60 years.

“I always wanted to be Willie Mays,” Bonds said in a pre-recorded statement that played on the video board. “Willie was just my idol. Willie was everything to me.”

Michael Mays helped escort a young man out to throw the first pitch, and Bonds caught the strike at the end of a pregame ceremony.

Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow, who occasionally had to pause while overcome with emotion, remembered the impact Mays had on the community.

“We all loved him. He was our guy,” Krukow said. “He was the guy who taught us the basket catch. … He was so special in so many ways. … He died a 93-year-old kid. Every day I saw him, he was at the ballpark, and there was no place he’d rather be.”

San Francisco Giants announcers Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow, from left, take part in a tribute to Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

At his favorite place, the Giants turned the entire field into a shrine to Mays.

Giants players and coaches lined the field, all donning Mays’ No. 24 – a number no Giant had worn since 1983 and a jersey that San Francisco manager Bob Melvin said pregame that he would be in favor of retiring leaguewide.

After returning from a series against St. Louis, which included a game dedicated to Mays at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, the Giants gave an elaborate tribute for one of the sport’s all-time greats in the team’s first day back in the Bay Area since Mays’ passing.

A Mays decal was painted directly behind home plate, and his retired number in left field was encircled in flowers. The American flag – as well as the state’s and Giants’ – slew at half-mast in center field.

A long video tribute to Mays, which ended with “Forever a Giant,” played before the game. A documentary devoted to Mays’ time in the Negro Leagues also played on the centerfield video board.

A tribute to San Francisco Giants’ Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

Farewell messages from, but not limited to, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Barack Obama, 49ers legend Ronnie Lott and musician Billy Crystal were accompanied by the “Say Hey, Willie Mays” song.

As members of the Giants television and radio broadcast teams spoke about the San Francisco legend, hundreds of fans found another way to pay their respects to the legend at his unofficial memorial outside of Oracle Park.

A multi-colored mountain of flowers – some in wreathes, others in a large bouquet, and the rest in vases – along with memorabilia and photos laid at the base of the nine-foot bronze statue depicting Mays, at the peak of his powers, following through on a swing.

Some fans quietly added a flower or two to the collection as they shuffled by. More than a few posed for photos. Others, those with gray hair and eyes who had watched baseball for decades, could be heard educating younger fans about the San Francisco legend.

“That is the great Willie Mays,” was one man’s answer to a bewildered “Who is that” question from an elementary school-aged child.

Mark Macias, of Santa Clara, pays respects at a statue of former San Francisco Giants’ Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

Nobody had to tell 62-year-old Wilson Hill who Mays was, with the Oakland native a lifelong fan of the Hall of Famer.

Hill, who was at the Coliseum with his grandfather and watched an older Mays get his last hit for the Mets in the 1974 World Series, wasn’t going to let anything stop him from attending the ceremony.

“I bought my ticket to this game as soon as I found out,” Hill said. “I knew I had to be here because I know it’s going to be a special occasion.”

Steve Duditch grew up in New York in the 1950s before moving to the Bay Area in the 1960s, and thus got a chance to watch Mays as a Giant on both coasts.

“I watched him since he was a young kid and I was just a baby,” Duditch said while looking at the statue. “He could run, field, throw. The best all-around player in baseball history.”

More than a few passers-by stopped to read off his staggering list of accomplishments, and at least a couple could be heard marveling at the eye-popping numbers he accrued during his pro career.

Mays started his career in 1946 starring in the Negro Leagues of the segregated South, first for Chattanooga and then for his hometown Birmingham Barons. The Say Hey kid then played 22 seasons (1951-73) in the big leagues, mostly for the Giants in New York and then San Francisco.

In the major leagues, Mays hit 660 home runs with 1,909 RBIs, and also stole 339 bases. He led the National League in home runs and stolen bases four times. The superstar had 3,293 hits and had a .301 batting average, and was named to a record 24 All-Star teams.

“He was so special in so many ways,” Krukow said. “He won hearts on the east coast and west coast and everywhere in between.”

San Francisco Giants players all wear the number 24 during a tribute to Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

Tony Jackson, of Sacramento and originally from Oakland, pays respects at a statue of former San Francisco Giants’ Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco Giants paid tribute to former player Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

Notes of appreciation on hats at the base of a statue of former San Francisco Giants’ Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco Giants’ Thairo Estrada #39 and other players all wear the number 24 during a tribute to Willie Mays before their MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

Flags fly at half mast during a tribute to Willie Mays before the San Francisco Giants MLB game against the Chicago Cubs at Oracle Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Monday, June 24, 2024. Mays died on June 18 at the age of 93. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

San Francisco Giants announcers Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow, from...

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Published on June 24, 2024 19:25

Mike Dunleavy Jr. ‘hopeful’ Warriors will keep Klay Thompson

SAN FRANCISCO — Mike Dunleavy Jr.’s pre-draft press conference was never going to be about the upcoming draft.

Not on the day lead assistant Kenny Atkinson reportedly left for the Cavaliers. Not hours after the team guaranteed Kevon Looney’s contract or as Chris Paul’s contract guarantee deadline date looms.

Certainly not as Klay Thompson, one of the most beloved and important figures in franchise history, can leave in free agency any day now.

The Warriors don’t even have a first-round pick in this draft. The Wednesday draft instead served as an opportunity for Dunleavy to address all those much more pressing matters.

For queries on Thompson, the second-year general manager was particularly tight-lipped.

“Honestly all that stuff, I think it’s private,” Dunleavy said when asked to describe the state of negotiations. “We want him back. We’ve said that all along. Hopefully he’ll come back. But as far as the specifics and discussions and those types of things, I think it’s important to keep in-house. When we figure out a solution to all that, we’ll have news for you.”

Thus far, the only news has been discouraging. Thompson, 34, unfollowed the Warriors and removed some team-related posts on Instagram. The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported that talks between the five-time All-Star and Golden State are stalled with nothing offered for Thompson to sign.

Dunleavy declined to get into specifics about the ongoing negotiations, but said that he doesn’t feel that there’s public negotiation — through the press or social media — going on.

What’s transpiring, or not transpiring, behind closed doors is then of interest. They’re also what Dunleavy wants to keep private.

The dynamics of the situation all around are tricky.

Thompson, a four-time champion with the Warriors, will one day have his No. 11 jersey retired in the Chase Center rafters. He has spent each of his 12 NBA seasons with the Warriors, the organization that took a chance on him as a rookie and stuck with him when he suffered back-to-back significant leg injuries.

He’s still a productive player, but his age and injury history make him more suited to come off the bench as a sharp-shooting sixth man than play 30-plus minutes per night. He reportedly turned down a two-year, $48 million contract extension with the Warriors, who are now tasked with simultaneously improving and shedding salary.

Thompson has seen the Warriors take care of his teammate, Draymond Green, with a long-term extension. He showed a willingness, albeit a reticent one, to come off the bench last year. For as many postseason gems he put together for Golden State, his season ended on an 0-for-11 dud in the play-in loss to Sacramento.

There’s a lot of history on both sides. Lots of legacy, feelings, memories and ego.

A lot for any general manager to sort through.

“I think, look, I think I’m reasonable, I’m rational,” Dunleavy said.”That’s how I’m always going to operate. But to say a guy like Klay Thompson who has meant so much to this franchise, to completely strip the emotion away from it, I think that’s almost impossible.

“But this is a business. We’ll talk through things and continue to talk through things. Like I said, we are hopeful but you know, we’ll see. We’ve got to figure things out.”

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Published on June 24, 2024 18:45

Following rough trip, SF Giants are back home to honor Willie Mays

SAN FRANCISCO — Following one of their more taxing trips of the year, a three-city, six-game trip that saw the franchise mourn the death of icon Willie Mays, the Giants returned to San Francisco to collectively exhale — while looking to break a losing streak, too.

“Obviously, we received some big news at the front end of the road trip with an iconic Giants player passing away,” said outfielder Austin Slater. “He’s someone who meant the most to this organization. We’re playing at 24 Willie Mays Plaza. Then, we didn’t perform well, so that doesn’t help. You mix in a third city and an event game and another emotional day.

“It was definitely a taxing road trip.”

Before the sudden death of Mays, this past road trip already presented its challenges: three games at Wrigley Field in Chicago; a single game at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama to honor Mays and the Negro Leagues; then two games at Busch Stadium in St. Louis.

Once the news of Mays’ death broke last Tuesday in the middle of their game against the Cubs, the Giants found themselves having to navigate a crushing emotional moment, too. San Francisco has lost all five games since Mays’ death, including a 6-5 loss to the Cardinals at Rickwood Field.

The elements didn’t help the Giants during their time away from San Francisco. The average game time temperature was a little over 90 degrees. Of the six games on the trip, only one game started with a temperature under 90 degrees.

“I always talk about how this ballpark — when I was in Oakland — can save your body a little bit over the course of the season,” said Giants manager Bob Melvin. “Now, when you go to places like that with extreme heat, you probably feel it a little more. We had six games that were really hot, but it is what it is. Whenever you go there this time of the year, you’re going to get that.”

Added Jordan Hicks, who pitched on Saturday in St. Louis: “For me, that was the biggest factor: the heat. With the flights, I just felt like I had no legs after the second inning and just had to battle.”

For all the logistical challenges, the Giants savored the opportunity to play at a historic venue, honoring the legacy of arguably the game’s greatest player while doing so.

“We were delighted to go to Rickwood and play there,” said Melvin, who played at Rickwood Field himself while with the Birmingham Barons. “It was one more stop in what felt like a longer road trip, but everybody wanted to do it. It was a great experience.”

“I would do it again,” Hicks said. “I wouldn’t change anything about it.”

The team will continue honoring Mays during their first home game since his death. In addition Mays’ No. 24 being etched into the outfield grass, every Giant will wear Mays’ classic number on Monday.

Melvin addresses Snell’s comments

After a rocky rehab outing with Triple-A Sacramento on Sunday afternoon, left-hander Blake Snell expressed frustration with how his recovery from a left groin strain has unfolded.

“I haven’t felt like myself yet,” Snell told the San Francisco Chronicle’s Shayna Rubin. “It’s just, ‘We need you. We need you. We need you.’ It’s not like, ‘Let’s get him right,’ and I have to deal with it.”

Melvin shared that he talked to Snell, who will throw a bullpen on Tuesday and pitch in Las Vegas against the Aviators on Friday.

“He’s frustrated like anyone else,” Melvin said. “He’s been out there a few times, got hurt a couple times, hasn’t been in sync yet. Definitely would not have him pitch if he doesn’t feel good physically. We’ll see where this next one goes on Friday.”

Snell signed a two-year, $62 million deal in March with an opt out after 2024, but has not looked the part of a reigning Cy Young Award winner due to a combination of injuries and underperformance. In six starts, Snell owns a 9.51 ERA over 23 2/3 innings with 31 strikeouts to 14 walks.

Burgos earns first call-up

Prior to Monday’s game, left-handed pitcher Raymond Burgos was selected from Triple-A Sacramento, the first major-league call-up of his career.

Infielder Trenton Brooks was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.

Burgos, selected in the 18th round of the 2016 MLB Draft by the Guardians, had a 1.64 ERA with 23 strikeouts over 22 innings with Triple-A Sacramento. The 25-year-old can provide length, having pitched at least three innings on four occasions with the River Cats.

Injury updates

Kyle Harrison (right ankle sprain) is scheduled to throw off the mound in San Francisco on Tuesday.LaMonte Wade Jr. (left hamstring strain) drew three walks in his first rehab game with Triple-A Sacramento on Sunday. He’s scheduled to play the field in Las Vegas on Tuesday and Wednesday.Alex Cobb (right shoulder) is scheduled to throw a second live bullpen in Arizona on Tuesday.Robbie Ray (left elbow UCL surgery recovery) threw 2 1/3 innings on Sunday with Triple-A Sacramento. He is scheduled to pitch for Single-A San Jose on Friday. Per Melvin, Ray will now be based in San Francisco instead of Arizona.Keaton Winn (right elbow inflammation) had an MRI over the weekend that revealed no structural damage. He will be shutdown from throwing for the next seven days.

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Published on June 24, 2024 18:18

Warriors GM: ‘Would take a lot’ to trade young players

SAN FRANCISCO — Mike Dunleavy Jr. isn’t so sure that a trade is the best way for the aging Warriors to improve.

That distinction, the second-year Warriors general manager said, belongs to internal development. Players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Trayce Jackson-Davis and Brandin Podziemski taking a big leap could make all the difference.

“I’m always a big player development guy,” Dunleavy said. “I think our younger players have a really good chance to get better — Podz, JK, Trayce, Moses. And then even our guys that we’ve had here for a while can get better. I think that’s got to be the main thing, and then from there you see what else is out there — can you make a move or a couple moves, do some stuff that enhances your team? That’s the one thing we’re hinging everything on.”

As it has for the past several years, the trick for the Warriors will be whether they can get enough development from their young core before their dynastic nucleus of Steph Curry, Draymond Green and (“hopefully”, in Dunleavy’s words) Klay Thompson diminishes.

Dunleavy is open about striking a balance between patience and urgency, between pragmatism and doing right by the superstars who lifted the franchise on their shoulders.

“As those guys kind of get a little bit older, we have to be mindful that at a point, maybe they’re not at a level to compete for a championship,” Dunleavy said. “I don’t think that point’s too near, but at some point it probably will be.”

Unless Kuminga, Moody, Podziemski and Jackson-Davis are ready to play at a championship level, it makes sense to try to cash them in for a prime player who can augment Curry in the final two years of his contract.

Players in trade rumors this summer have included Paul George, Jimmy Butler, Zach LaVine and Brandon Ingram.

But making trades isn’t always easy, Dunleavy noted. The new collective bargaining agreement — with punitive penalties for teams who spend above certain thresholds — makes trades more complicated in terms of matching salaries and offering future draft picks. Every front office has analytics departments to assess the value of players and exchanges, making fair deals hard.

“I don’t want to, like, get ahead of it and say there’s going to be some big move that we’re going to do and all that,” Dunleavy said. “Could be. If it’s there, great. But it’s not something that must happen.”

In the Warriors’ case, a deal would also likely require giving up young for old, cheap for expensive, and future potential for past production.

Kuminga took major strides last year as a slashing forward, particularly when Green was sidelined. He still needs to improve his defense, decision-making and outside shooting, but has all the tools to blossom into the kind of versatile wing every team covets.

Moody’s role has fluctuated drastically, but he has typically impressed when given a chance. Dunleavy noted Moody’s sample size isn’t as big as he’d like it to be, but the former Arkansas wing has shot 36% from 3 in all three of his NBA seasons while flashing strong on-ball defense.

Jackson-Davis and Podziemski, rookies last year, look foundational in their own rights — the former as a rotational center and the latter as a floor-spacing connector with room to grow into more on-ball playmaking.

“We really value those guys,” Dunleavy said. “We drafted them, we’ve grown them. They’ve played really well. We’re excited about them. A scenario to move them would take a lot. It’s important for us to be good now and also be good in the future. But the main thing is, we think those guys can contribute and help our group now. If that was not the case, we’d be more open to stuff. But it is, and we’re excited for those guys’ growth this year. I expect them to be with us.”

It’s easy to throw cold water on that sentiment. For one, Dunleavy said around this time last year that he expected Jordan Poole to return, only to trade him days later.

“And I did at that point,” Dunleavy said Monday. “But this thing changes so quickly. Especially when there’s a deadline in place — a trade deadline, a draft, free agency, things change like that.”

Regardless of what Dunleavy expects or how much he values the team’s young core, that’s the only certainty: Things can change. Chris Paul’s contract guarantee date is Friday. Thompson’s free agency will heat up. The team brought back Kevon Looney, but can now include him and his $8 million salary in a trade. The draft is Wednesday and Thursday. Teams are making calls all over the league.

Everything will be on the table for the Warriors, even possibly going against owner Joe Lacob’s public preference to dip under the luxury tax.

“I think it’s about being smart about it,” Dunleavy said of spending. “I think from that sense, if there’s a point to going over the tax, a point to going into one of the aprons, we will do it. Because the most important thing to (Lacob) is winning. He’s shown that.

“Joe may have an idea in mind about what he wants to spend, but when presented an opportunity to spend a lot of money and have a great team, I know what his answer’s going to be.”

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Published on June 24, 2024 16:50

Monterey Peninsula outlook: Weather expected to be mild for Fourth of July, but prepare pets for fireworks

MONTEREY >> While much of the country is expected to continue enduring a heat wave this week, the Monterey Peninsula is expected to miss out on some of the more extreme temperatures.

Tuesday through Thursday are forecast to be sunny days with highs in the mid-60s. The evenings will be cooler with temperatures in the low-50s and some cloudy weather.

The trend is expected to continue into the weekend and into next week for the Fourth of July festivities.

Whether or not you plan to be outdoors for the holidays, SPCA Monterey County has released their annual tips and recommendations for those with pets.

“The days before and after can be a scary and dangerous holiday for pets,” the SPCA announced in a press release. “While fireworks are an exciting part of holiday celebrations, they frighten many of our community’s companion animals.”

Several shelters in the area see a rise in the number of stray dogs and cats before and after the July Fourth holiday. According to the SPCA, this also causes an increase in animals hit by cars each year.

SPCA Monterey County advises the following precautions to help keep pets safe:

Keep your pets indoors or in a secure, confined area where they feel comfortable. If your pet has a favorite blanket or toy, be sure he has that nearby.Turn on a radio, television, or fan to muffle the sound of fireworks. Providing common household noises that your pet knows and trusts will help calm your pet if he is alone during the night.Do not leave your dog or cat outside while fireworks are set off. Once scared, they will often jump fences and run fast and far from home, not noticing cars or other hazards.
If your dog begins to whine, pace, and pant, try to distract him by playing his favorite game or having him perform his favorite trick.Ensure that your pet is wearing current identification tags at all times and has a microchip I.D. (available at The SPCA for only $25).If you know your pet is frightened of loud noises and flashes of light, (such as lightning and thunder), please consult your veterinarian for advice regarding medication or products like “thunder shirts.”

If your pet is lost, the shelter recommends begin checking as soon as possible at the SPCA or your local animal shelter. For more information, call The SPCA at (831) 373-2631 or visit www.SPCAmc.org.

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Published on June 24, 2024 14:56

Explore these Airbnb alternatives for your next vacation

Avery Newmark | (TNS) The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

There’s a lot to consider when planning a vacation: plane tickets, car rentals, food, lodging and other expenses. However, the last things you want to encounter are hidden fees and surprise expenses, often associated with booking accommodations through Airbnb. In cities like Atlanta, where fees can add an average of 48% to your Airbnb stay, exploring alternative options can save you money and offer unique experiences.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, transparency or adventure, there’s an option to suit your needs and budget. Check out these alternatives to Airbnb for finding your next vacation rental.

Sonder

Sonder bridges the gap between hotels and homes by offering well-maintained apartment rentals with hotel-like services. This short-term rental company features mobile-first service for seamless check-ins, neighborhood guides and in-app requests for towels or toiletries.

bnbfinder

For budget-conscious travelers tired of service fees, bnbfinder offers a transparent booking platform that allows you to connect directly with hosts. Specializing in “professionally managed vacation rentals,” bnbfinder eliminates service fees, providing more affordable stays and ensuring hosts receive fair compensation.

Blueground

Blueground is perfect for those needing longer-term rentals, offering fully furnished apartments with flexible lease options. It also offers monthly pricing and support throughout your stay, making it a convenient option if you’re relocating or spending an extended period in a new city.

Hipcamp

If you’re looking to connect with nature, Hipcamp provides a range of unique, private RV spots and campsites. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a more rugged experience and are looking for something off the beaten path.

Plum Guide

Plum Guide sets itself apart by vetting every property through a rigorous process involving proprietary algorithms and hospitality experts. This ensures each rental meets high standards of cleanliness, reliability and comfort. While it’s on the pricier side, the attention to detail — from Wi-Fi speed to shower pressure — makes it worth the splurge for those who appreciate high-end accommodations and unique designs.

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Published on June 24, 2024 14:55

The best beach road trips for your summer 2024 bucket list

Lisa Wells

If a visit to the beach is on your bucket list this summer, turn the trip into a road trip for an unforgettable vacation. With destinations in Florida, the northeast coast, the southeast coast and California, these road trips will take you to your region’s best beaches.

Visit America’s best beaches and beachside towns this summer

The beach is a top destination come summertime. With warm sun and cool water, beaches around the country offer a chance for relaxation and recreation. Locations along both the East and West Coasts offer a variety of experiences as well, from laid-back beach towns to bustling cities.

A road trip makes your entire beach trip an adventure. With stops along the way, the opportunity to visit several beaches in the same trip, and the potential cost savings of driving over flying, the popularity of road trips is on the rise. According to The Vacationer, over 75 percent of Americans plan on road tripping this summer. Plan your own road trip to these beach destinations.

Visit Florida’s white sand beaches

With over 1,100 miles of coastline, Florida has hundreds of beaches to choose from. Florida State Road A1A will take you through Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Cocoa Beach and Daytona. Many beaches in this area are less crowded than the most touristy cities further south, giving you plenty of room to spread out.

Enjoy culture and history at northern Florida beach cities

A beach road trip gives you the option of splitting time between beach days and inland destinations. As Florida’s largest city and capital, Jacksonville, Florida has museums, nightlife and shopping. St. Augustine, first established by Spanish settlers in 1565, offers a beautiful historic setting.

Best northern Florida beaches

When you are ready to hit the beach, you have dozens of options between Jacksonville and Daytona Beach. Jacksonville beaches, like Neptune Beach and Atlantic Beach, are pet-friendly if your pup is along for the ride. Local restaurants and shops can provide a break from the sand and swimming.

St. Augustine Beach is the perfect stop on a road trip as one of the few beaches that allow you to drive on the beach. Purchase a permit and you can park your car right on the beach, keeping all your gear nearby as you spend the day relaxing in the sun.

Near Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa Beach offers a vantage point for rocket launches that occur throughout the summer. Then head further south to Daytona Beach – another one where beach driving is allowed – and find a boardwalk with rides and games for family entertainment.

Explore the Southeast along the Atlantic Coast

A road trip from Virginia Beach, Virginia to Savannah, Georgia will take you to some of the southern U.S.’s best beaches and historic sites. With 12 hours of driving, you can adjust your trip time based on how many stops you want to make.

Start in Virginia Beach, with its famous boardwalk, before heading to the Outer Banks in North Carolina to visit Duck and Nags Head. Further south, get onto Highway 17 and travel along the coast to Myrtle Beach. This vacation destination has all the beachside and water activities you could want from the beach, as well as a boardwalk, SkyWheel, entertainment and golfing.

Historic Charleston and the nearby waterfront community of Mount Pleasant are packed with things to do on a beach road trip. Having your car with you makes it easy to get to local museums, parks and, of course, great beaches like Folly Beach or Isle of Palms. Finish your road trip in Savannah, GA with stops in Beaufort and Hilton Head.

Mix a city trip with a beach trip in the Northeast

If your ideal beach trip includes exploring local cities, a road trip through the Northeast is perfect. You can mix up stops in metropolitan areas like Philadelphia and New York City with seaside towns like Mystic, Connecticut, and Newport, Rhode Island.

Once in Rhode Island, travel writer Sage Scott from Everyday Wanderer recommends Ocean Drive. She says, “Although it’s just 10 miles long, Rhode Island’s Ocean Drive delivers beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean as it winds around the southern coast of Aquidneck Island. Start near Fort Adams State Park and end by embracing the Gilded Age gazing at the impressive seaside mansions of Newport.”

If you want a break from the car, take the ferry from Newport to Block Island. With multiple lighthouses, a wildlife preserve and sandy beaches, it’s a great place to stretch your legs at the end of a road trip.

Experience stunning views on the Pacific Coast Highway

Highway 1, or the Pacific Coast Highway, is over 600 miles long and offers stops at dozens of beaches in California. Sage Scott explains, “The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S. and with good reason. As you hug the Golden State’s rocky coast, you’ll be treated to scenic ocean views and towering mountains.”

Driving the entire highway offers a once-in-a-lifetime trip for those who have time. Shorter segments offer road trips ranging from a few days to a few weeks depending on how long you want to spend in towns along the way.

For a Northern California road trip, travel to San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Monterey and Big Sur State Park for a combination of culture and scenic views of rugged coasts. Further south, visit Hearst Castle in San Simeon, head to Southern California beaches in Santa Barbara and Santa Monica and finish the trip on Coronado Island in San Diego Bay.

Plan a beach road trip this summer

Whether you are taking a long weekend or have several weeks, a road trip is the ultimate way to customize your beach vacation. Use these favorite beach trips as your inspiration and add in experiences that interest you. The beautiful drives and stunning beaches are sure to make your entire trip a memorable one.

Lisa Wells is a travel, food and lifestyle writer and photographer who has traveled across 37 countries. As the founder of Coastal Wandering, she shares her love for laid-back beach living with stories, recipes, and tips for a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

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Published on June 24, 2024 14:48

Horoscopes June 24, 2024: Mindy Kaling, choose peace and love

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Solange Knowles, 38; Minka Kelly, 44; Mindy Kaling, 45; Sherry Stringfield, 57.

Happy Birthday: Look over your options and creatively approach what you add to your to-do list. Combine what makes you happy with how you save or earn, and you’ll have a win-win situation. Put your energy where it makes the most sense. A positive attitude will attract opportunity and boost your energy, allowing you to follow through confidently. Choose peace and love over chaos. Your numbers are 8, 14, 25, 29, 31, 38, 46.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Think before you act or speak. Make sure you have your facts straight and a practical plan in place. The outcome of whatever situation you face will depend on what you contribute and being willing to compromise to get what’s important to you. 4 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Check your emotions at the door and proceed with dignity and facts. Channel your energy into activities that help you present your attributes in a positive and helpful manner. Look for the good in others, and discover how to get things done without backlash. 2 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Live and learn. Being a good listener will broaden your scope of a situation, help you understand what you are up against and encourage you to learn whatever is necessary to accomplish your goals. Refuse to let situations escalate that can lead to a negative response. 5 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You’ll shine in situations that require innovation or capturing an audience that can make a difference to the outcome of a problem you face. Don’t shy away from change when taking a unique approach will separate you from any competition you encounter. Choose a healthy lifestyle. 3 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Take charge and get the ball rolling. Embrace change, chances and creativity with enthusiasm, and dazzle anyone you encounter. Spread joy instead of trying to get what you want using force. Don’t allow mixed emotions to point you in the wrong direction. 3 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Think big, but live within your budget. Coming up with a functional and financially sound plan will lead to stability and approval from people you want to impress. Showing attentiveness and gratitude will win favors and support to make your life easier. Personal growth is favored. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Rearrange your space to suit your needs; you’ll have more time to do things that bring you joy. Refuse to let anyone talk you into something that benefits them more than you. Being direct may not be well received, but it will ease your stress. 5 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Being involved will lead to knowledge, understanding and exciting encounters. Travel, educational pursuits and participation in interest groups will help you determine what to do next. A change will introduce you to people who have something unique to offer. 2 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Rein in your spending and rethink how you choose to win approval. Trying to buy favors will send a false message. Focus on personal growth, self-love and changing how you live. Assess what’s working for you. 4 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): A domestic change can save time and money. Look for the best way to use your cash to help you gain freedom. A partnership looks promising and will spark your creative imagination. It’s time to trust in yourself and to focus on what’s important. 3 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Home improvement projects will encourage you to enjoy what you’ve worked so hard to achieve and protect you from outside influences trying to separate you from your cash. You’ll gain the most from what you have created for yourself and your loved ones. 3 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Simplifying your life will lead to contentment. Make a list of your responsibilities, and consider how to lighten the load. Concentrate on stabilization, feeling secure and enjoying what you have instead of clambering to keep up with someone else’s dreams. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are affectionate, charming and artistic. You are ambitious 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 June 24, 2024 03:01

June 23, 2024

Grand Prix of Monterey: Pole leader Alex Palou endures to win at Laguna Seca

LAGUNA SECA — Spaniard pole leader Alex Palou endured a strategic afternoon of pit stops, tire changes and late yellow caution flags Sunday to claim his second win at the Firestone Grand Prix of Monterey.

Palou (Chip Ganassi Racing) prevailed in the late chaos, taking the lead for good with four laps remaining after the final yellow flag, winning the 95-lap, 212.38-mile race in 2 hours, 4 minutes and 10 seconds.

Californian Colton Herta, who won the race in 2019 and 2021, finished second, 1.9 seconds behind. American Alexander Rossi finished third, trailing the winner by 4.51 seconds.
Palou, 27, the 2021 and 2023 season titlist, claimed 11th career IndyCar race in the 72nd event of his five-year career.

Unlike last year when 35 laps were under eight yellow flags, flying car parts and flared temperatures, the eighth of the 17-race circuit advanced cleanly.
But it changed quickly with four yellow flags in the final 16 laps.

Kyle Kirkwood, who joined Honda teammate on the front row, moved into the lead just after the start and remained in the lead until taking his first pit stop on the 26th lap.

Rossi, who began the fifth position, assumed the lead until the first crash of the day when Italian rookie Luca Ghiotto left the race on lap 35 after losing several car parts and spinning into the interior track dirt. Yellow flags followed quickly as did lead change with pit stop strategies.

Defending titlist Scott Dixon, seeking a seventh career season title and his 59th career race win, finished finished sixth. Two-time defending Indianapolis 500 winner Josef Newgarden placed 19th in the field of 27.

Louis Foster (Andretti Global) earned his fourth victory in the last five races and took the championship lead with a triumph in the second race of the earlier Indy NXT doubleheader. Foster dominated both races, defeating rookie Caio Collet by 4.3962 seconds Sunday and by 8.2445 seconds Saturday.

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Published on June 23, 2024 19:41

SF Giants ace Blake Snell roughed up in Triple-A rehab start

Blake Snell’s year with the Giants hasn’t gone according to plan, and it looks like his rehab is at risk for the same fate.

Snell, the reigning National League Cy Young winner, pitched 1 2/3 innings in a rehab start for the Sacramento River Cats on Sunday afternoon. The southpaw struggled with command and racked up 51 pitches before departing with two outs in the second inning against the Round Rock Express — Texas’ affiliate.

Snell walked three and gave up three hits in 1 2/3 innings, surrendering two earned runs. He’s been on the 15-day injured list since June 3 with a left groin strain.

A Scott Boras client, Snell didn’t sign with the Giants until March 19, preventing him from having a normal spring training and offseason. The club slowly brought him into the fold, only for Snell to struggle at the big-league level. In six starts for the Giants, Snell is 0-3 with a 9.51 ERA. He has given up 11 more earned runs (25) than he did in all of the second half of last season.

“From the very beginning of spring training until now, it’s been a pretty uneven process for him,” Melvin said of Snell when the pitcher hit the IL.

According to The Athletic’s Andrew Baggarly, Snell said after his outing that he was impressed with his velocity that reached the mid-90s, but was frustrated with his performance.

Robbie Ray, another former Cy Young winner, also made a rehab appearance on Sunday in Sacramento. He threw 45 pitches in 2 1/3 solid innings, striking out a pair while allowing one hit and one walk.

Ray, who’s recovering from Tommy John surgery, isn’t expected to return to the Giants until around the All-Star break.

While Snell, Ray, Keaton Winn, Kyle Harrison, Alex Cobb and Tristan Beck are sidelined with injuries, the Giants have been left with only Logan Webb and Jordan Hicks in the rotation. Snell’s tough day makes it unlikely he’ll come to the rescue before making several more rehab starts.

LaMonte Wade Jr., though, is much closer to rejoining the fold. He also played a rehab assignment game Sunday with Snell and Ray, drawing three walks and scoring two runs in his first four at-bats.

Wade was San Francisco’s best overall hitter before he went down with a hamstring strain a month ago. His .470 on-base percentage still leads MLB among players with at least 100 plate appearances.

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Published on June 23, 2024 15:52

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