Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 451

What to stream: Get ready for upcoming slate of summer sequels

Katie Walsh | Tribune News Service (TNS)

Like most summer movie seasons, summer 2024 is lousy with sequels. Last weekend we saw “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” the fourth installment of the “Bad Boys” franchise, take over the box office, and one of the buzziest titles of the summer is “Furiosa,” the prequel to “Mad Max: Fury Road.” This weekend, “Inside Out 2” hits theaters. So here’s a quick streaming guide on this summer’s sequels, and where and how to watch or rewatch everything you might need to catch up, from family-friendly animated fare to horror franchises.

As mentioned, “Inside Out 2” comes out Friday, June 14. The first film, 2015’s “Inside Out,” directed by Pete Docter, is on Disney+ or available to rent on other platforms.

At the end of June, “A Quiet Place: Day One” will tiptoe into theaters. This third installment is a prequel to “A Quiet Place” (2018) and the sequel, “A Quiet Place Part II” (2021), which were both directed by John Krasinski and are available to stream on Paramount+ or for rent on other platforms (“Part II” is also on Hulu). This third film is written and directed by Michael Sarnoski, who wrote and directed the critically acclaimed “Pig,” and stars Lupita Nyong’o as a woman attempting to survive the initial alien invasion in New York City.

Gru (Steve Carell) has grand plans for his future in “Minions: Rise of Gru.” (Illumination Entertainment & Universal Pictures/TNS)

In time for Independence Day weekend, the fourth movie in the popular “Despicable Me” franchise will release on July 3. Catch up with the first three movies all on Peacock, though if you’re a parent you likely don’t need the refresher. Our antihero Gru also features in “Minions: Rise of Gru,” so perhaps take in that film on Prime Video or rent them all on Amazon or iTunes.

July 5 sees the release of Ti West’s “MaXXXine,” the third slasher film in his “X” horror film series starring Mia Goth. “MaXXXine,” the sequel to “X,” is set in 1985, and follows Goth’s Maxine as she makes her way to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams of stardom after the massacre in Texas in 1979. She of course then encounters the Night Stalker killer in L.A. “Pearl” is the prequel film, set in 1918, with Goth playing the title character (and the film’s villain), who also appears in “X.” Watch “X” on Netflix, Showtime or rent it elsewhere, and catch “Pearl” on Prime Video or rent it on other platforms.

Mia Goth stars in “Pearl.” (A24/TNS)

In mid-July, the long-awaited sequel to Jan de Bont’s 1996 storm-chasing disaster picture “Twister” spins into theaters. “Twisters” is directed by Lee Isaac Chung, who directed “Minari,” and stars new Hollywood It Guy Glen Powell alongside a host of up-and-coming stars. Revisit “Twister” before the new movie by renting it on all platforms.

On July 26, it’s a Marvel mashup with “Deadpool & Wolverine.” You may want to revisit the potty-mouthed superhero played by Ryan Reynolds in “Deadpool” (2016), which is on Max and Disney+, or “Deadpool 2” (2018), on Disney+, or catch up with the lethally clawed mutant played by Hugh Jackman. He’s in most of the “X-Men” movies, all streaming on Disney+. Or you can stream “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” (2009) on Max, or rent “The Wolverine” (2013) and “Logan” (2017) on other digital platforms.

Sigourney Weaver, left, and Carrie Henn in “Aliens.” (20th Century Fox/TNS)

Finally, the Aug. 16 release of “Alien: Romulus,” directed by Fede Alvarez, is a good enough reason as any for a full rewatch of the “Alien” series (it’s always a good time for an “Alien” rewatch). So here goes: “Alien” (1979), directed by Ridley Scott, is streaming on Hulu; “Aliens” (1986), directed by James Cameron, is on Max and Starz; the underrated “Alien 3” (1992), directed by David Fincher, is on Hulu; and “Alien Resurrection” (1997), by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, is also on Hulu and Starz. Let’s skip the “Alien vs. Predator” films, and then go straight into Scott’s return to the franchise, with “Prometheus” (2012), on Hulu and Apple TV+, and his “Alien: Covenant” (2017), which is available to rent on all platforms. Whew. It will be worth your while.

Related ArticlesMovies | ‘Firebrand’ review: Katherine Parr tale succeeds, fall short of potential Movies | ‘The Watchers’ review: With a dark story set in Ireland, new Shyamalan comes out to play Movies | Move over, Barbie: Universal developing ‘Monster High’ film based on Mattel dolls Movies | ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ review: Smith-Lawrence comedic chemistry gives it life Movies | ‘Hit Man’ review: Glen Powell gets it in gear, in a hired-assassin Netflix movie for the rest of us There are of course some sequels and remakes in the fall that you may want to rewatch a few things for (“Beetlejuice,” “Joker,” “Venom,” “Gladiator”) but here’s what you need to prep for this summer’s sequels and prequels.

(Katie Walsh is the Tribune News Service film critic and co-host of the “Miami Nice” podcast.)

©2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

Tips for beach safety in the sun, sand and sea

Lois Lee, MD, MPH, FAAP | (TNS) American Academy of Pediatrics

When the weather’s nice, many families love spending time near the water. Whether your favorite spot is near the ocean or the edge of a river or lake, it’s always best to prepare for your surroundings and make sure that health hazards don’t spoil your good time.

I encourage families to look for beaches where lifeguards are on duty and watch for any postings about water quality, rip currents or shore break, which can make swimming and water unsafe. It’s always important to designate an adult as a water-watcher to keep an eye on children playing in or near the water at all times.

You will also want to apply sunscreen every two hours at minimum or more often after children come out of the water.

Here are 12 tips for families to enjoy a safe and fun outdoors experience for everyone:

Check the water temperature. Generally, water between 82 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (28 to 30 Celsius) will be safe and comfortable for young swimmers. Scan the sand. Before spreading out your beach blanket, look for debris that may have washed up, including sharp sticks, bottles or even jellyfish.Watch for sand holes. Making sandcastles and sculptures can be a blast. But the hole your child digs in the sand should never be deeper than their own knee. Children can fall in and get trapped and buried in the sand. This can even lead to suffocation and death. Have kids dig where you can watch them—and don’t allow digging in sand dunes, where loose sand can collapse around them. For everyone’s safety, always fill the holes your crew digs before you leave. Sometimes holes that children can fall into aren’t always obvious or clearly visible.Lightning strikes pose real dangers, so when you hear that familiar rumble, head indoors. The safest place during a thunderstorm is a substantial building or a hard-topped vehicle. Wait at least 30 minutes after the storm passes before heading back to the beach.Teach kids to respect the water. At the seaside or lake, they should always face the water so they can see new waves coming in. Teach them to wade in feet-first so they can check the water’s temperature and depth. Make sure they never dive or jump from high points such as a bridge, boat or dock, where shallow depths or underwater debris can cause serious head and spine injuries.Appoint a water watcher. This should be an adult with good swimming skills who keeps a consistent eye on the water and shoreline. When it’s your turn, put away your smartphone, book or any other distractions, and skip the alcohol to help you stay alert. If you’re in a big group, choose more than one watcher to rotate duties.Small children and those without strong swimming skills should wear a certified life jacket in or near the water, the Red Cross says. Families should also don certified life jackets whenever they’re boating, paddling, waterskiing or skimming along on Jet Skis.Require adult permission before kids go in any kind of water. Make sure they always check in with a parent or trusted adult before entering the water.Use the buddy system. For young children, this means having an adult beside them whenever they’re in the water, keeping one hand on them while they float, paddle or play. As kids gain water safety skills and show they can be trusted to stick together) they can swim and splash in groups. The forever-and-always rule is that no one goes in the water alone.Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen labeled SPF 30 or higher. Mineral sunscreens can be especially effective. Put sunscreen on at least 30 minutes before hitting the beach, using the equivalent of a full shot glass to protect your child. (Don’t forget the tops of feet, hands and ears.) Reapply every 2 hours or right after your child leaves the water, since no sunscreen is 100% waterproof or sweatproof.Sunscreen often causes skin reactions in babies under 6 months, so it’s best to protect little ones with a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight clothing that covers their arms and legs. Stake out a shady spot where they can play or nap safely. And try to keep them out of the sun in the middle of the day when UV rays are the strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).Rash guards, long-sleeved tops and other beachwear offer extra protection for toddlers and older kids, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest. You may also want to shield feet with water shoes, flip flops or sneakers on very hot days, since the sand’s surface can climb as high as 100 degrees.Keep everyone cool and hydrated. Avoid heat illness by having plenty of water on hand, offering children frequent sips and calling for occasional shade breaks. If you use a  beach umbrella, be sure it is anchored securely in the sand. Umbrellas that fly away in the wind have caused serious injuries.

Whether you’re at the beach or a pool, families want to have fun and these precautions can prevent against injuries and drowning. Ask your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns about safety during an upcoming outing or vacation in the sun and water.

____

Lois Lee, MD, MPH, FAAP, Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention, is a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Boston Children’s Hospital and Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Lee has published seminal research on pediatric emergency medicine, health disparities and injury prevention, including related to firearms. Dr. Lee’s expertise was recognized with her election to the National Academy of Medicine in 2023.

©2024 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

‘Firebrand’ review: Katherine Parr tale succeeds, fall short of potential

“Firebrand” is the first English-language film by Brazilian-Algerian director Karim Aïnouz, and he infuses this portrait of mid-1500s Tudor England figure Katherine Parr with an entrancing fluidity with which you cannot help but be impressed.

In theaters this week, “Firebrand” also benefits from an understated performance by Alicia Vikander, as the English queen and regent and a bolder turn by Jude Law as her tyrannical husband, King Henry VIII.

In all, though, this adaptation of Elizabeth Fremantle’s 2012 historical novel, “The Queen’s Gambit,” feels like at least a slight missed opportunity, a tale that instead of building momentum to its climax loses a bit of narrative momentum in its third act, even as the stakes for Katherine are of the life-or-death variety.

In his director’s statement, Aïnouz — whose credits include “Invisible Life,” “Mariner of the Mountains” and the documentary “Central Airport THF” — talks of “reimagining of a ‘period’ film, closer to a psychological horror film, or a political thriller,” which is how “Firebrand” plays. (Later in the film production notes, it is stated he is not a fan of the term “biopic,” and so what we get here is but a sketch of a brief time in its main subject’s life.)

Parr was the sixth and final wife of Henry VIII — in recent years, she, Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleves and Catherine Howard have been the heroines of the award-winning stage musical “SIX” — and early on in “Firebrand,” Katherine seems to believe she can influence Henry for the betterment of England. She says as much to old friend Anne Askew (Erin Doherty of “The Crown”), who is making waves in the countryside a Protestant preacher, aka “a radical.”

After all, Henry has appointed Katherine regent as he’s gone off to war, she points out to Anne, with whom she secretly meets.

“He puts a woman on the throne so a man cannot take it while he’s gone,” Anne counters.

(Opening on-screen text also reminds us that “history tells us a few things, largely about men and war.”)

Thus, it is not surprising that when Henry arrives home — earlier than expected, as a worsening leg condition made it embarrassingly difficult for him to mount his horse in front of his men — he pushes her aside, along with her concerns about the plague and the the possibility of revolution.

“I’m home,” he says, “and you don’t need to worry your head about it anymore.”

As “Firebrand” progresses, however, Katherine will need to worry about her head, literally, as Henry grows suspicious of her for one potentially life-threatening reason or another. Fortunately for her, she becomes pregnant with his child, which, of course, he hopes to be a son.

Jude Law, left, and Alicia Vikander in “Firebrand.” (MBK Productions/Zuma Press/TNS)

Katherine is painted as a loving mother to Henry’s three existing children, all the products of previous wives, and is especially adored by Princess Elizabeth (Junia Rees), who, down the line a bit, will rule England and Ireland for nearly 50 years as Elizabeth I. They certainly are closer to her than to their biological father.

Vikander, an Academy Award winner for her work in 2015’s “The Danish Girl” whose credits also include terrific performances in “Ex Machina” and “The Light Between Oceans,” seems determined to give a less-is-more performance here. It’s fine work, but “Firebrand” may have benefited from a, well, more fiery moment or two from Katherine, who is, understandably, increasingly preoccupied with her mere survival.

No such concerns with the work of the similarly skilled Law (“The Talented Mr. Ripley,” “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore”), whose moments of intensity are responsible for much of the film’s tension. Henry is a man to be feared, greatly, even as his health worsens.

While Law reportedly wore weights under his baggy royal garb to convey the growing size of this ruler with a big appetite, more noteworthy is that he found someone to create on-set scents to help sell the idea that the “filth and rotting of his body” were creating horrible odors, according to the film’s press notes.

‘You can see people having a visceral reaction to the environment — that is something that really helped in terms of the performances,” says producer Gaby Tana.

Jude Law, left, portrays English King Henry VIII in “Firebrand.” (MBK Productions/Zuma Press/TNS)

As we can’t actually smell the movie even in the most technologically advanced cineplexes, we are left with the aforementioned acting and direction, along with the screenplay by sisters Henrietta and Jessica Ashworth (“Tell It to the Bees”), with “additional writing” by Rosanne Flynn (“Military Wives”). Like the other elements, the writing boasts more good than bad but is unremarkable.

“Firebrand” also benefits — if only so much — from solid supporting onscreen work by Simon Russell Beale, as politicking Catholic bishop Stephen Gardiner, and Eddie Marsan and Sam Riley, as brothers Edward and Thomas Seymour, respectively, who are noblemen and allies of Katherine,

Parr, who also is referred to as Catherine and Kateryn in writing, was said to have been vivacious and witty, and we get a glimpse of that in a well-executed scene in which Henry insists Katherine be the person to test his food to ensure it hasn’t been poisened. Her handling of this tense situation provides the film with one of its finest moments.

It’s also an example of how a decent film could have been stronger with a few choices having been made differently.

‘Firebrand’

Where: Theaters.

When: June 14.

Rated: R for some violent content, brief gore and sexuality/nudity.

Runtime: 2 hours.

Stars (of four): 2.5.

Bone broth buzz: Is this trendy diet worth the hype?

Avery Newmark | The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (TNS)

Bone broth has been making waves in the wellness world, with influencers touting its benefits for gut health and weight loss. But what exactly is involved with this trendy diet, and does it live up to the hype?

A quick Google search for “bone broth diet” yields quite a few results, but one of the most popularized diets is by naturopathic doctor Kellyann Petrucci, according to Women’s Health. It combines intermittent fasting, bone broth consumption and an anti-inflammatory paleo diet. Proponents say this 21-day plan can boost weight loss, improve gut and joint health, and reduce inflammation.

While incorporating bone broth into a balanced diet may offer improved joint health and skin elasticity thanks to its high collagen content, minerals and amino acids, the diet’s restrictive nature raises some red flags. On fasting days, followers consume only bone broth, which can lead to calorie deficits and potential nutrient imbalances.

“Sure, you could see weight loss during the 21 days of dieting, but once those 21 days are over, you may feel deprived from eliminating so many foods that you result to binge eating which can then lead to weight gain,” Rebecca Russell, RD and founder of the Social Nutritionist, explained to the magazine. “This can then lead to a vicious cycle of yo-yo dieting which is detrimental to metabolism, weight gain, and gut health, and can lead to an increased risk of chronic disease.”

Moreover, the diet’s low-carb approach may leave you feeling tired and constipated because of a lack of fiber-rich foods like grains, legumes and starchy vegetables, Women’s Health reported. These food groups are crucial for maintaining overall health and gut function.

Not to mention, any diet severely restricting calories or entire food groups increases the risk of nutritional deficiencies. “For example, completely eliminating dairy can put you at risk of a calcium deficiency,” Rancourt said.

Before embarking on any diet, the Mayo Clinic recommends consulting with a qualified health care professional to ensure it aligns with your individual needs and goals.

©2024 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Horoscopes June 12, 2024: Georgina Campbell, adjust what isn’t working

CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Georgina Campbell, 32; Eamonn Walker, 62; Scott Thompson, 65; Timothy Busfield, 67.

Happy Birthday: Take a step back, analyze situations thoroughly and refuse to let your emotions interfere with your decisions. High energy can have a significant impact on how situations unfold. Be patient, listen, learn and decide what’s best for you before you proceed. Pay attention to functionality at home, and adjust what isn’t working. A seamless transition from one event to the next will make your life easier. Your numbers are 4, 18, 23, 26, 31, 36, 44.

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Having an open mind, high energy and discipline will help. The problem you’ll face is the temptation to veer off course. Communication, travel and educational pursuits will attract you, but you will need help distinguishing between fact and fiction. Take time for research and self-improvement. 3 stars

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Put your energy into something exhilarating. A pick-me-up will motivate you to strive for bigger and better outcomes. Applying for a promotion will trigger a series of events that will help you develop an interest in something you enjoy doing. 5 stars

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Minimize spending. Poor behavior will leave you at a loss when something requiring extra cash surfaces. Be cautious who you associate with, and refrain from making unrealistic promises. Leave yourself open to take advantage of learning something that can help you get ahead or expand your interests. 2 stars

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Revise your plans. Leave enough wiggle room to take detours. Information and new experiences will help you incorporate alternatives into your routine that spark your imagination and take you on a journey that can shape unique prospects and new beginnings while changing your perception and drumming up enthusiasm. 4 stars

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Refuse to let anyone take advantage of your generosity. A practical approach to helping others will establish what you are willing to do and save you money. Be ready to walk away from one-sided relationships. Learn from your mistakes. 3 stars

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Take control, learn as you go, and initiate changes to your routine or surroundings to encourage progress. Refuse to let anyone interfere with your personal growth, ambition or physical well-being. Gather information that will contribute to making better decisions regarding money. 3 stars

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Set your sights on the big picture, and work your charm and magic to get what you want. Refuse to let emotional matters drag you down when your finances and investments depend on having a sound mind and plan to protect against loss. Choose peace over discord. 3 stars

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Size up situations and initiate change before someone else steps in and takes over. Make an impression and use your ingenuity and staying power, and you will outshine anyone trying to outmaneuver you. Avoid joint ventures and iffy investments. Change is a choice; choose wisely. 4 stars

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Put your energy where it counts; don’t waste time on no-win situations, arguments or exaggerated circumstances. Collect your thoughts before you engage in talks or make promises, and you will make progress. Don’t believe everything you hear. 2 stars

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don’t take risks that can damage your reputation or counter your effort to excel professionally. Too much of anything will work against you. Be a good listener and observer, and be reluctant to make cash contributions. 5 stars

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Take a break, look around and be grateful. Concentrate on who you want to be and how you want to present yourself to others. A makeover will lift your spirits and attract attention. Don’t be a follower. 3 stars

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Refrain from laboring over things you cannot change. Protect yourself and your belongings from unpredictable people and situations. Make changes that stabilize your life rather than letting emotions dictate what you do next. 3 stars

Birthday Baby: You are generous, playful and ambitious. You are sensitive and powerful.

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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Jordan Hicks solid despite battling flu, but SF Giants’ bats silenced by Astros

SAN FRANCISCO — Jordan Hicks’ final line score against the Astros wasn’t all that special. Given that Hicks was battling both batters and his body, the Giants gladly took the effort.

Hicks allowed three earned runs across 4 2/3 innings with five strikeouts as he fought the flu, ending up with the loss as San Francisco totaled only three hits and fell to Houston, 3-1, on Tuesday at Oracle Park.

“I think based on what he was dealing with today — the line doesn’t look great — I thought he did pretty well,” said Giants manager Bob Melvin.

This isn’t the first time this season that Hicks has started while sick. On May 19, Hicks delivered five innings of one-run ball despite vomiting right before first pitch. For Hicks, the flu brought different challenges. He spent much of the last few days laying in bed, requiring IV injections on Monday and Tuesday. Along with the flu, Hicks dealt with a tight back.

“I feel like the stomach’s a little different, for me at least,” Hicks said. “I can go out there and if I throw up, I throw up. The flu-like symptoms are the ones that get you.”

Hicks’ velocity, unsurprisingly, was down a few ticks. The right-hander threw 36 total fastballs — 34 sinkers, two four-seamers — but didn’t crack 95 mph a single time. His slowest sinker of the night registered at 90.2 mph. Even with reduced velocity, Hicks generated four whiffs with his splitter and five with his sweeper.

Related ArticlesSan Francisco Giants | SF Giants’ Alex Cobb throws bullpen; Matt Chapman returns to lineup San Francisco Giants | ‘He’s the man’: Austin Slater delivers walk-off win as SF Giants beat Astros in 10 innings San Francisco Giants | Former SF Giants fan favorite Mauricio Dubón takes shots at Gabe Kapler San Francisco Giants | SF Giants’ Matt Chapman to miss second straight game with sore hamstring San Francisco Giants | Kurtenbach: The SF Giants’ new goal — tread water until the All-Star break “I feel like it dialed me in a little bit more,” Hicks said. “My slider felt really good, and with my sinker, I feel like I was getting some swings under the zone with it.”

Despite feeling under the weather, Hicks kept Houston’s potent offense in check. The right-hander needed just 50 pitches to get through the first four innings, his lone blemish being Jose Altuve’s RBI groundout. In the fifth, Hicks ran into a game-deciding roadblock.

Trey Cabbage led off the inning with a single, then former Giant Mauricio Dubón smashed a double, putting runners on second and third with no outs. Hicks struck out the next two batters, then got Alex Bregman to dribble a potentially inning-ending grounder to the infield’s left side.

Matt Chapman, returning to the lineup after missing two games with a sore hamstring, barehanded the ball and fired to first, but his throw was offline and two runs scored, giving Houston a two-run lead. Hicks, who hasn’t completed five innings in his last two starts, was then pulled at 72 pitches, tied for the fewest he’s thrown in an outing this season. Melvin said he would’ve pulled Hicks even if Chapman made the play due to Hicks’ physical state.

“That’s one of the ones where it’s just baseball,” Hicks said. “THey didn’t hit it hard enough. Just a tough one. (Chapman) is a Gold Glover. He’s going to make those plays. Yeah, that’s tough though. It’s kind of in between shortstop and third.”

With Tuesday’s outing, the reliever-turned-starter is up to 71 2/3 innings, only six fewer than his career-high of 77 2/3 innings. Hicks will likely set a new benchmark in frames sometime this month, and Melvin said the 27-year-old has done “remarkably well” with his transition to full-time starting.

“He knows how to manage his bullpens. He hasn’t been throwing seven or eight innings, but he’s been keeping us in basically every game he’s pitched in,” Melvin said. “Today was going to be short no matter what. I don’t think he’s thinking too much about innings right now. His velocity, compared to what it’s been as a reliever, has been a little bit down, but when he needs a pitch and has to reach back, he does it.”

For the Astros, the three runs that Hicks allowed runs proved to be enough. Houston’s Ronel Blanco tossed six innings of one-run ball, the lone blemish coming on Brett Wisely’s solo home run in the third. From there, Tay Scott, Bryan Abreu and Ryan Pressly held the Giants hitless the rest of the way, each tossing a scoreless inning apiece.

“He’s got good stuff,” Melvin said of Blanco. “Throws hard, throws an assortment of breaking balls. Just enough fastballs to keep you off the breaking stuff. He’s got a (2.67) ERA right now. We just couldn’t solve him. We couldn’t make him work hard enough and ends up throwing six innings.”

SF Giants’ Alex Cobb throws bullpen; Matt Chapman returns to lineup

SAN FRANCISCO — Alex Cobb attracted a bit of a crowd as he walked to the Giants’ bullpen on Tuesday afternoon at Oracle Park. Indeed, there was no shortage of players and personnel who wanted to see Cobb, once again, throw off a mound.

“I had to find the bullpen first,” Giants manager Bob Melvin joked. “I point out there from time to time, but I actually had to find it this time.”

Cobb took an important step towards returning to game action, throwing a 20-to-25 pitch bullpen prior to Tuesday’s game against the Astros. Cobb said he felt great, according to Melvin, mixing in breaking balls and exhibiting good velocity. Cobb, an All-Star in 2023, is scheduled to throw another bullpen on Friday.

The 36-year-old initially made great progress in his recovery from hip surgery, but has been slowed by a flexor strain in his elbow, followed by tightness in his shoulder.

“I think we’re past the hurdle of, ‘Is the shoulder going to feel good when he lets it go?’ It did today,” Melvin said.

In even more encouraging news for the Giants, third baseman Matt Chapman returned to the starting lineup after missing the last two games due to a sore hamstring. Chapman felt like he could have played Monday, per Melvin, but San Francisco wanted to give him one more day to recover.

“In this day and age, you want to be careful with guys,” Melvin said of Chapman, who leads the team in games played (64). “You look at his track record, he’s always been really durable. Played through some finger stuff last year. It’s just kind of who he is. I think everybody knows that around here. He’s pretty tenacious in how he plays the game and always wants to be out there for his team.”

Chapman’s return is a relief for the Giants, who have a litany of players currently on the injured list. Even with right-hander Keaton Winn and outfielders Austin Slater and Michael Conforto recently returning, the amount of players on the shelf remains extensive, a list that includes Cobb; shortstops Nick Ahmed and Marco Luciano; left-handers Blake Snell and Robbie Ray; and catcher Tom Murphy.

Starters making progress

As Cobb warmed up for his bullpen, Snell played catch off flat ground. Snell, dealing with a left groin strain, is scheduled to throw off the mound on Wednesday.

Blake Snell throwing off flat ground. Alex Cobb set to throw a bullpen. LaMonte Wade Jr. watches on. pic.twitter.com/i0rx3aegmz

— Justice delos Santos (@justdelossantos) June 11, 2024

Ray, recovering from Tommy John and flexor tendon surgeries, will need two more outings before moving on from the Giants’ rookie-level affiliate. Ray has made two appearances with the Arizona Complex League Giants so far, striking out eight batters over three innings.

Two prospects earn Triple-A promotions

Right-hander Hayden Birdsong and outfielder Grant McCray, the Giants’ No. 6 and No. 13 prospects, respectively, per MLB Pipeline, have been promoted to Triple-A Sacramento.

“I’ve heard he’s been having a good season, talked to some of the scouts,” Melvin said. “That’s not a surprise based on what we saw in spring training. Great stuff. It’s about the strike throwing for him. Obviously, he’s doing that right now, so not a surprise.”

Birdsong, 22, was a sixth-round selection in the 2022 MLB Draft and had a 2.05 ERA with 61 strikeouts in 11 starts with Double-A Richmond.

McCray, 23, was selected in the third round of the 2019 MLB Draft. In 50 games with Richmond, McCray had a .210 batting average and .732 OPS with six home runs and six steals.

PHOTOS: Multiple county fire agencies participate in high-rise training exercise at Monterey Marriott

MONTEREY >> The Monterey Fire Department and the Monterey County Fire Training Officers Association co-hosted a countywide, multi-agency, high-rise drill Tuesday, at the Monterey Marriott Hotel.

The purpose of the training was to exercise the county’s high-rise firefighting guidelines by providing training for local agencies and practicing communication between different departments.

Part of West Franklin Street was closed off on the side of the hotel to allow fire trucks to pull in and act out the scenario as if it was a real incident. The scenario was a fire on the eighth floor of the hotel, where several people had to be evacuated.

The Monterey Marriot closed off the sixth and seventh floors of the building for the firefighters so they could practice entering from a different corridor and maneuver through smoke to solve the problem. The eighth floor was filled with artificial smoke and a few people played victims in the fire. They were rescued and escorted to safety.

Firefighters from all over the county participated in this exercise at the Monterey Marriott. The last time a joint-exercise of this size was hosted at the hotel was more than 10 years ago. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)

Firefighters communicate with each other in the smokey hallway of the Monterey Marriot. The main room where the fire started in the scenario was filled with smoke, and crews made their way through with full gear and equipment. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)

Both people who were acting, and training dummies were used in the exercise. Firefighters brought the dummies down the stairwell and loaded them onto gurneys. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)

A firefighter raises the truck's ladder to the roof of the hotel, which has 9 floors. The crews entered the building from multiple entrances including the stairwell. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)

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About 80 fire fighting personnel were on the scene from 17 different departments including Monterey Fire Department, Monterey Police Department, Carmel Fire Ambulance, CAL FIRE San Benito-Monterey Unit, Seaside Fire Department, Marina Fire Department, Monterey County Regional Fire District, North County Fire District, Salinas Fire Department, King City Fire Department, Greenfield Fire Department, Hollister Fire Department, American Medical Response, Monterey Peninsula College Fire Academy and County of Monterey Fire Communications.

“This is almost what a full response would look like,” said Greg Greenlee, division chief for Monterey Fire. “The general goal is about 100 firefighters for this kind of incident and with our county being so spread out, it’s going to take time for everyone to get here. So this is a great opportunity to identify things like communication problems.”

High-rise buildings, which are defined as structures over 75-feet tall, are physically challenging according to the county, because of their size and the complexity of the fires. During the exercise, firefighters practiced using their dispatch system, communication systems and interagency operations. One of the challenges the firefighters were presented with in Tuesday’s exercise was communicating how to prioritize lives while ensuring the main problem, the fire, was put out.

“It’s really important to slow down and ensure you have all the resources you need,” said Chris Knapp, division chief with Salinas Fire. “Incidents like these can be tough when the first, second, third fire companies get there and find victims in the hallway with a fire 150 feet away. That’s tough tactical decision-making.”

Firefighters who participated in the scenario said they found it to be a good exercise and hope the training helps build relationships and familiar faces amongst departments.

“We appreciate the support, because this is necessary and we need this training,” Knapp said.

Kurtenbach: Here’s who the Warriors should draft with pick No. 52

The first moves a new general manager makes are always informative.

Bob Myers’ first moves as the Warriors’ general manager, for instance, were to draft Draymond Green and sign Steph Curry to a four-year, faith-based contract that would provide the capital to build the greatest basketball team in modern times. A few months before he landed that role, he spearheaded the trade that sent Monta Ellis to the Bucks for Andrew Bogut.

In hindsight, it was brilliant stuff.

We don’t have a decade-plus of success and context to judge Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., who is approaching a year on the job.

But we can easily recall his first big moves on the job. First, he drafted Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis, then, a few days later, he traded Jordan Poole to the Wizards for Chris Paul.

These were “win-now” moves. The Warriors didn’t end up doing that.

A big reason why was their lack of shooting.

Yes, Curry made nearly five 3-pointers per game, and Thompson three-and-a-half per contest, but after the two greatest 3-point shooters of all time, the well ran rather dry.

Andrew Wiggins and Paul spent long stretches of the season not stretching the floor. Podziemski could chip in one or two a game, but he was hardly an obvious threat.

In fact, the Warriors greatly required Green — backpack and all — to be a floor-spacer this season. (He stunningly shot 39.5 percent overall, but only 12.8 percent in second halves.)

(Ray Chavez/Bay Area News Group)

Dunleavy was right to trade Poole, even with Paul likely to be waived or traded this summer.

But the fact is that the Dubs never replaced Poole’s shooting ability, particularly off the bounce.

It’s still something this team desperately needs.

The Dubs’ issue is that players who can move off the ball, catch-and-shoot, put the ball on the floor, and knock down shots at all three levels are impossible for them to sign in free agency — they’re too expensive.

But what I told you the Warriors could select one with pick No. 52 in the upcoming NBA Draft?

***

When you’re drafting as late as the Warriors, it’s not about finding an all-around player. Those prospects (if there are any in this draft) are off the board.

No, the only question that should be asked is “What can this kid do?”

And Kentucky wing Antonio Reeves can score with the best players in this draft class.

I’m betting he can immediately score, in bunches, at the NBA level, too.

The narrative around Reeves ahead of the draft is about what he cannot do. He’s not giving you much, if anything on defense. He’s also 24 years old, making him a less appealing prospect to teams looking for growth.

Good. The negatives are the only reason Reeves is possibly available to the Warriors at No. 52.

What a coup it would be for Golden State to draft him. Reeves scored 20 points per game in the SEC on 50 percent shooting from the floor and 43 percent from beyond the arc on nearly six attempts a game.

This guy doesn’t just score, he does it efficiently.

Spotting up, off the catch, on handoffs, in transition, on drives, and in transition, he’s good for more than a point per possession across the board, per Synergy. Elite stuff.

He’s an intuitive mover off the ball — someone custom-made for the Warriors’ motion offense. And he has positive length at 6-foot-6 and a 6-foot-8 wingspan — he’s not going to struggle with NBA size.

I think he makes smart decisions with the ball in his hands, too. He’s not someone you want running your offense, but he’s anything but a ball hog — he has a knack for making the right pass, the simple pass, amid the chaos of motion on the perimeter.

Add it up, and you have a player who can be a Malik Monk type for a Warriors team that needs one.

Or, perhaps, a Poole replacement.

***

The Warriors are at a strange crossroads this offseason.

Perhaps they’ll move for a clear-cut No. 2. I’m still in for a Dejounte Murray trade.

Or maybe this team will try to ride out what they already have, bringing back Thompson but dumping Paul.

But no matter what route they take, the mandate is the same: win, now.

And to do that, they could sure use someone who can come off the bench and get some buckets.

Reeves is that kind of player.

The Warriors were right to jettison Poole, a microwave scorer. That was a cultural issue. (See: Punch, The.)

They were wrong to not replace him.

Drafting Reeves at No. 52 could right that wrong.

Warriors 2024-2025 Depth Chart

Ball Handler: Steph Curry | Brandin Podziemski; Chris Paul (CC)

Wings: Klay Thompson (UFA), Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga | Gary Payton II (PO), Moses Moody, Lester Quinones, Gui Santos

Bigs: Draymond Green | Trayce Jackson-Davis, Kevon Looney (CC), Usman Garuba

Italic: Possible offseason exit » UFA: Unrestricted free agent, PO: Player option, CC: Cut candidateRelated ArticlesGolden State Warriors | Surprise! Stephen Curry returns to Sacramento area to play in local pickup games Golden State Warriors | DIMES: Brace for big June decisions, Warriors fans Golden State Warriors | The Bay never left Jason Kidd, the former prep superstar nearing another NBA title Golden State Warriors | DIMES: What the Warriors can learn from the playoffs Golden State Warriors | Warriors assistant Atkinson to interview for Cavaliers job: Report

Students reliant on school lunches are set for the summer

Schools are out of session for the summer but many students still have access to nutritious meals through various free summer meal programs throughout the county.

Two of these programs are provided by the Alisal Union and Monterey Peninsula Unified School Districts. Through July, students and children under the age of 18 are able to stop by designated sites to receive free breakfast, lunch, snacks and supper.

“For a lot of students, oftentimes school meals are the only place they’re receiving meals during the day. Being able to continue that into the summer is extremely important,” said Micha James, director of nutrition services at Monterey Peninsula Unified.

For the Monterey Peninsula Unified program, there are nine sites throughout Marina and Seaside, including the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula, the Marina City Library and Seaside High School.

A nutritious meal during the school day “allows (students) to focus and concentrate and it allows them to be present and get the most out of the education they are there to get,” said James.

In terms of knowing what constitutes a balanced meal, “you often hear about eating the rainbow,” said James. She recommends focusing on “a blend of everything,” including grains, meat or meat alternatives, vegetables, fruits and starches.

The majority of sites designated for this program are schools. According to Monterey Peninsula Unified Superintendent PK Diffenbaugh, the reason for this is simply because the community often feels safest at its schools.

Mother-daughter duo Joanne and Amanda Olivio volunteer their kitchen services for the summer academy program at the Dual Language Academy of the Monterey Peninsula. (Andrea Valadez – Monterey Herald)

“School has become the institution they trust the most. That’s why when we did COVID-19 vaccines, we did it at the school site, because families have come to trust institutions of school more than they might other institutions in the community,” said Diffenbaugh.

These programs are “all about service and making sure that all of our young people and families we serve have their needs met both during the year and summer months as well,” said Monterey County Schools Superintendent Deneen Guss.

“It could be that this is the only secure meal that a young person receives during the summer months. This is always an issue, it was an issue prior and post COVID-19, that a lot of families are struggling to put food on the table,” said Guss.

For the high percentage of students in the county who qualify for free and reduced lunches,  “they need a consistent, safe and organized place where they can count on ‘if I go to school, this is what I’m going to get,’” said Diffenbaugh.

Alisal Union has a similar program, giving out free meals at 11 different sites this summer. School sites include Virginia Rocca Barton School and Cesar E. Chavez Elementary School. City Parks and Recreation is also participating, with some sites being First Tee of Monterey and the Cesar Chavez Library, according to Alisal Union Nutrition Services Director Irene Vargas.

Some of the meals served at Alisal’s sites include homemade spaghetti, chicken sandwiches and even homemade birria, according to Vargas. An important aspect of these programs is to give students nutritious, but appetizing meal options that they will enjoy eating.

For James, if students want chicken nuggets, they can have them, just with cleaner ingredients.

 

Students are given a variety of snack and lunch options, including apple slices. (Andrea Valadez – Monterey Herald)

The focus of the nutrition services department is on clean and whole foods and not serving items that include ingredients like high fructose corn syrup or sweeteners that “research has pointed to being detrimental to a growing body,” said James. It’s important not to serve foods whose ingredient lists look like a “chemistry project,” she said.

James said a good rule of thumb for knowing if an item is worth purchasing is “if you can’t pick up everything on an ingredient list in a grocery store, don’t put it in your basket.”

Through summer meal programs, the sites are able to provide “security and mindfulness to students when they know they’re going to get a nutritious meal,” said Vargas. These programs also create a sense of relief for parents who may not have the resources to provide a balanced meal three times a day.

“We have so many families struggling right now, especially with inflation. These programs really meet that need for nutrition security,” said Guss. “We have a lot of communities that rely on local food banks, but they alone cannot meet the need. So it takes all of these various entities that can provide healthy food to our communities.”

For Diffenbaugh, given the many kids who rely on school as a place for guaranteed meals, “pulling the rug out from under them during summer is not acceptable.”

The full list of sites and times to come in can be found at https://www.mpusd.net/apps/news/article/1936294 and https://www.alisal.org/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=4&ModuleInstanceID=22&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=3639&PageID=1.