Jeremy T. Ringfield's Blog, page 487
May 3, 2024
Patrick Bailey leaves SF Giants game vs. Phillies after foul ball off face mask
PHILADELPHIA — In search of offense, the Giants lost one of their most productive hitters in the second inning of their series opener Friday night against the Phillies.
As Alec Bohm’s walk-up music rang through Citizens Bank Park, catcher Patrick Bailey motioned to the Giants dugout. He requested the training staff and appeared to tell them, “I’m dizzy.” The catcher accompanied head trainer Dave Groeschner and manager Bob Melvin back to the dugout and was replaced by Tom Murphy.
The Giants announced midway through the game that Bailey was being evaluated for blurry vision.
After the game, Melvin said Bailey was “doing a little better” and not in concussion protocol.
“He had some blurry vision, so obviously we were going to be proactive about that,” Melvin said. “The doc saw him and we’re monitoring him right now.”
Nothing immediately preceding Bailey’s exit suggested a concussion or any other injury. The previous inning, he was struck in the face mask by a foul ball off Bohm’s bat but remained in the game for the final batter of the first inning and the first two batters of the second.
After Nick Castellanos reached on an error by third baseman Matt Chapman, Bailey called for Melvin and Groeschner.
“I checked right in with him, and he seems to be doing OK,” Murphy said. “It’s terrifying, right? Pat’s been through some concussions and that sort of thing. I feel for that kid deeply. Hopefully he figures out a better mask, or something better for him. I just really hope he’s OK.”
Related ArticlesSan Francisco Giants | Miscues loom large in SF Giants’ series-opening loss to Phillies San Francisco Giants | Tristan Beck cleared to throw again after aneurysm, plus updates on SF Giants’ other injured pitchers San Francisco Giants | Mike Yastrzemski channels family history to power SF Giants over Red Sox at Fenway San Francisco Giants | A baseball legend visits SF Giants in Boston and leaves Bob Melvin speechless San Francisco Giants | SF Giants’ lineup doesn’t get it done in loss to Red SoxA runner-up for a Gold Glove as a rookie, Bailey had been one of the few things going right for the Giants’ offense, which had failed to score more than three runs in any of its past seven games entering Friday night. In 24 games, Bailey had been 31% better than the ballpark-adjusted league-average hitter, and his .279/.337/.456 batting line equaled a .793 OPS, second only to LaMonte Wade Jr. among Giants hitters.
“Hopefully it’s not a loss,” Melvin said of the potential impact of Bailey’s absence. “He is central to kind of everything we do.”
If Bailey is forced to miss time, the Giants no longer have Joey Bart at Triple-A Sacramento to call up in his place. Blake Sabol is the only other catcher the Giants have on their 40-man roster.
As for Friday night, when it came time to warm up Jordan Hicks in between innings, it was Tyler Fitzgerald who threw on shin guards and a catcher’s mitt. Maybe the superutility man will play all nine positions after all.
Best Ozempic Alternatives (2024) Ranking the Top 7 Natural In Stock OTC Weight Loss Option for Sale
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Ozempic is an injectable medication that has been FDA-approved to treat weight loss. However, this anti-obesity medication has not been created to reduce appetite and body weight.
Ozempic can help people suffering from high blood sugar levels lose weight efficiently. However, if you don’t have high blood sugar levels, this anti-obesity medication may induce harmful side effects that aren’t worth enduring.
This is why our team decided to find the best Ozempic alternatives to help maintain weight loss and balance insulin secretion naturally.
None of our picks uses the same active ingredient as the Ozempic weight loss medication, so let’s dive in immediately!
The Best Ozempic Alternatives For Healthy Weight ManagementThere are tons of weight loss medications on the market today. Still, we feel that switching to the following Ozempic alternatives may be a better way to lose weight and reduce appetite while matching your desired efficacy standards:
OzemraSeroLeanPhenQLumaLitePuraviveFitSpressoLean Body TonicOzemra
Our team found Ozemra one of the best non-insulin weight management options today. Since it is priced much lower than other popular weight loss medications, we didn’t feel the need to use our health insurance either.
According to its reviews, Ozemra may boost weight loss among people who struggle to stick to a reduced-calorie diet, and no other alternative medication seems to be working for them.
One of the main reasons why we decided to ditch prescription medications and switch to consuming Ozemra was that even athletes and professionals were consuming it to promote weight loss. Its formula slows food movement and also lowers blood sugar levels in most cases.
That said, Ozemra’s active ingredient list contains potent components, which is why it works faster than other medications and weight loss supplements.
However, this also means that some people may find Ozemra a bit harsh on their digestive system, so we recommend consulting a healthcare provider immediately if you suffer from allergic reactions or discomfort.
Overall, our team members felt that Ozemra was the suitable Ozempic alternative because it helped them reduce appetite and high blood pressure while promoting healthier lipolysis triggers. We also liked how the official website of this weight loss medication outlines the time frame during which you can expect specific weight loss results.
Pros Of OzemraCreated in FDA-approved facility and is CGMP-certifiedUses a 4-stage mechanism for promoting weight lossNon-insulin weight loss medication with no reported side effectsSuitable for athletes and professionals who want to lose weight to achieve a sculpted body quicklyCons Of OzemraThe potent formula of this weight-loss medication may cause stomach pain in some users.SeroLean
As we were looking for Ozempic alternatives to lose weight while balancing blood glucose levels, we didn’t expect to come across a weight management supplement that could also promote our mental health.
Our team believes that SeroLean is one of the best weight loss drug alternatives for people who cannot reduce their calorie intake.
As we were researching various reasons why people suffer from health issues related to weight management, we found that emotional binge eating is a common trend among them. Hence, we found it interesting how the makers of SeroLean (led by Dr. Robert Posner) evaluate ingredients such that their blend promotes the happy chemical – serotonin- in the body.
According to most SeroLean reviews, its formula works better than the ones offered by most available medications to reduce the potential risks of overeating and skipping regular exercise every day – thanks to the boost of confidence it supplies its consumers.
We found it helpful for providing ongoing support to our weight loss journey, and some of our teammates also reported experiencing lower blood sugar levels and higher insulin sensitivity.
Pros Of SeroLeanUnlike Ozempic (Semaglutide) and most of the other medications, SeroLean targets both the physical and the mental health of its usersHealthcare professional-formulated supplement to induce weight lossComes with a day and night formula to use the active ingredient list of this supplement 24*7Eligible orders come with four freebiesCons Of SeroLeanYou may find more potent weight management supplements for treating any weight-related condition unless your primary problem is low motivation and dopamine levels.PhenQ
Since the injectable medication of Ozempic (Semaglutide) may cause serious side effects such as thyroid tumors and intense stomach pain, we purchased PhenQ. It is recommended by a lot of healthcare providers to boost weight loss while helping manage blood sugar levels and stick to a balanced diet as well.
Our team was pretty satisfied with the amount of scientific evidence backing the a-Lacys Reset formula used to create PhenQ. This healthcare professional-recommended supplement didn’t require us to take insurance coverage, as it was priced at a decent rate.
While some might still find PhenQ a bit more expensive than other over-the-counter weight loss medications, its bonuses, such as free eBooks and shipping, make this supplement worth every penny.
PhenQ is one of the most popular Ozempic (Semaglutide) alternatives because its free eBooks eliminate the need to pay a heavy consultation fee for expensive health coaching services. This supplement undergoes several lab tests before being sent to the market, and it may help you carry out effective weight management even if you have a family history of obesity.
Pros Of PhenQNo need to prick your upper arm as it comes in the form of capsulesHelps promote weight loss by targeting the stubborn fat layers of the bodyMay help promote better blood sugar management and mood using natural ingredientsThe scientific evidence backing PhenQ is displayed on its official websiteCons Of PhenQSince this weight loss supplement contains a decent dose of caffeine, consuming it in the evening might interrupt your sleep patternLumaLite
Although an injectable medication like Ozempic (Semaglutide) may help you experience weight loss, it may either require people to avail of their health insurance and pay a hefty insurance subscription fee or consume the same active ingredient that has been reported to cause conditions like thyroid tumors. If these effects sound too scary, we recommend trying safer Ozempic alternatives like LumaLite.
We found LumaLite as effective as most weight loss medications in boosting weight loss and reducing appetite. Most healthcare professionals who recommend it for weight loss do so because it lacks preservatives and other harmful components, thus reducing the chances of inducing allergic reactions among its users.
Hence, if you are looking for a gluten-free formula that can help you increase insulin secretion without causing side effects such as thyroid tumors and diabetic retinopathy, we suggest checking out LumaLite.
Its customer care team is also decent and responds to the queries posted on the same day, as in most cases.
Pros Of LumaLiteIt does not contain harmful chemicals, GMOs, or preservationsLess expensive than prescription medicationsMade in FDA-approved labsTested in third-party labs for potencyCons Of LumaLiteWhile the current body of scientific evidence backs the ingredients used to create LumaLite, its formula may promote weight loss at different rates among different individuals.Puravive
No matter how severe your weight-related condition is, there is nothing an excellent tropical formula can’t fix – at least, that’s what we believe! While looking for the perfect oral medication and Ozempic alternatives, we found Puravive – a natural dietary supplement from 8 plant-based ingredients.
As we reviewed Puravive’s active ingredients, we found most of them to be natural and clinically proven to promote weight loss. We decided to try it because most healthcare professionals seem to have a reasonable opinion about this supplement—and ours also aligns with theirs.
Unlike an injectable medication containing the same active ingredient that may cause severe conditions, Puravive’s natural formula can help increase brown adipose tissue to balance blood sugar levels and promote healthy weight loss.
We found its working mechanism effective, and some of our team members reported how their cardiovascular health improved with time, too, as they consumed the Puravive pills.
Pros Of PuraviveTropical weight loss formula made using clinically proven and plant-based ingredientsMay induce effective weight loss within 2 to 3 monthsMade in FDA-approved and GMP-certified facilitiesA generous 180-day refund policy is offered in case its health claims don’t work in your favor.Cons Of PuraviveOnly the 6-bottle pack of this weight loss supplement is shipped for free in the USA.FitSpresso
Even though Ozempic (Semaglutide) is FDA-approved to be counted among weight loss medications that primarily balance blood sugar levels, they might not be suitable for every person out there. However, FitSpresso is a great weight loss product for ages 18 to 90!
As we researched this supplement, manufacturers effectively addressed safety concerns by crafting the FitSpresso formula in only FDA-approved and GMP-certified facilities.
Consuming one FitSpresso pill daily was all we had to do to start losing weight without experiencing any adverse effects.
This is why most healthcare professionals recommend FitSpresso to people with a family history of obesity, too.
Its ability to reduce the pace of gastric emptying and decrease cravings works for most users, and we felt more energetic the same day we consumed its pills for the first time!
Pros Of FitSpressoIt helps promote weight loss in the same way among both men and women who are over the age of 18Both the multi-bottle orders of FitSpresso come with free eBooksThe 6-bottle pack of FitSpresso comes with a complimentary bottleFour different kinds of cards are accepted on its checkout pageCons Of FitSpressoIt doesn’t induce weight loss among children (ages below 18) and women who are either pregnant or lactating in the same way.Lean Body Tonic
If you are looking for the best option among Ozempic (Semaglutide) alternatives that also lowers blood sugar levels, acts as efficiently as weight loss medications, reduces calorie intake, doesn’t make fraudulent health claims, is recommended by good healthcare professional experts and also rejuvenates your mental, physical, and sexual health – try out Lean Body Tonic.
Even our team was skeptical whether this supplement is genuinely healthcare professional-recommended for establishing all these goals simultaneously.
But once we started to feel better mentally, physically, and sexually while sculpting the body of our dreams – our doubts quickly faded away. We found several Lean Body Tonic reviews that reported how thousands of people worldwide have had similar experiences.
We didn’t experience any side effects, such as stomach pain while enjoying this supplement’s weight loss and anti-aging benefits. It also helped us increase insulin sensitivity and works faster than some of the best over-the-counter weight loss medications. While we don’t recommend it to children (ages below 18), we think that it may help balance blood sugar levels and help users stick to a balanced diet irrespective of their gender and other factors.
Pros Of Lean Body TonicThis weight loss supplement is sold in powder form, which may suit people with a strong gag reflex.It helps balance blood sugar levels and promotes anti-aging while boosting weight loss using natural ingredients.Multi-bottle packages come with free bonuses and shippingMost orders are shipped within 2 to 3 daysCons Of Lean Body TonicWe recommend consulting healthcare professionals if you suffer from pre-existing medical conditions before consuming Lean Body TonicMetrics We Considered For Ranking The Best Ozempic AlternativesWhen selecting and ranking the best alternatives to Ozempic, we considered a variety of metrics to ensure we were providing accurate product recommendations that make sense. These metrics included:
Active IngredientsWhen finding the best Ozempic alternatives, one key factor we considered was the active ingredients.
We wanted to know exactly what made these alternatives tick, what magic was packed into those tiny capsules or powder forms. After all, the ingredients do the heavy lifting regarding weight management.
We sifted through lists of ingredients, from vitamins to herbal extracts, trying to decipher which had the most potential to help us shed those extra pounds.
Some of the best Semaglutide alternatives contain clinically proven ingredients such as alpha lipoic acid, green tea extract, l-carnitine fumarate, and caffeine.
Each ingredient in the supplements listed above had its own story and claim to fame in the weight loss world. Some were known for boosting metabolism, while others promised to suppress appetite with their natural powers.
Ultimately, we looked for alternatives that boasted a lineup of ingredients that made sense and seemed to complement each other in their weight-loss mission.
Efficacy StandardsEfficacy standards – the gold standard in the world of weight loss. We wanted alternatives that didn’t just promise results but delivered on them, too. It was like going on a blind date – we had high hopes but needed proof that these alternatives were the real deal.
We looked for alternatives that matched our expectations and didn’t fall short when delivering results.
We wanted alternatives that understood our goals and that worked with us every step of the way.
Price PointLet’s talk money—because, let’s face it, weight loss shouldn’t break the bank. We scoured the market for alternatives that offered bang for our buck and didn’t cost an arm and a leg. After all, why pay more when you can spend less and still get results?
We compared prices, weighed the pros and cons, and ultimately chose alternatives that fit our budget without skimping on quality.
It was like finding a hidden gem in a sea of overpriced potions and pills. Ultimately, we walked away feeling like savvy shoppers, knowing we’d found effective and affordable alternatives.
Professional RecommendationsWhen choosing the proper weight loss medication, hearing the opinions of healthcare professionals can make all the difference.
We looked for Ozempic alternatives that garnered positive reviews and recommendations from doctors, nutritionists, and weight loss specialists.
For instance, SeroLean stood out to us because Dr. Robert Posner, a renowned expert in weight management, formulated it. His expertise lent credibility to SeroLean’s effectiveness and safety, making it a trusted choice among healthcare professionals.
Similarly, PhenQ received praise from many healthcare providers due to its scientifically backed formula and positive results reported by patients.
User Reviews and FeedbackAlright, strap in because we went deep into the trenches of user reviews and feedback. You know, the real talk from people who’ve been there, done that. We were like detectives, sifting through experiences to separate the wheat from the chaff.
We found a treasure trove of insights. Some hailed their alternative as a game-changer, a knight in shining armor for their weight loss quest. Others, not so much. We read about the nitty-gritty—did it kick in as promised? Were there any surprises or, heaven forbid, side-eye-worthy side effects?
User reviews are the heartbeat of our decision-making process. It’s like getting advice from a friend who’s been there, done that, and got the T-shirt. And believe us, we listened closely because nothing beats real-world experiences.
Comprehensive SupportWhen exploring the best Ozempic alternatives, we were drawn to options that didn’t just focus on shedding pounds but also offered additional benefits. One standout factor was the comprehensive support provided by these alternatives.
Take SeroLean, for instance. Not only did it aid in weight loss, but its unique approach targeted physical and mental health. Incorporating ingredients promoting serotonin production curbed overeating and boosted our mood, providing a holistic solution to our weight management journey.
Formulation DiversityA crucial factor in our quest for the perfect Ozempic alternative was the diversity in formulations. PhenQ caught our attention with its capsule form, eliminating the need for injections. This eased the intake process and made it convenient for individuals averse to injections.
Additionally, the consideration of dietary preferences played a role. LumaLite, being gluten-free, catered to those with specific dietary requirements, ensuring a broader user base for effective weight management.
Shipping and DeliveryEfficient shipping and delivery services were pivotal in our decision-making process. We appreciated that FitSpresso offered free eBooks with multi-bottle orders and ensured swift shipping.
We weren’t keen on waiting for our weight loss supplements, and FitSpresso’s quick delivery helped kickstart our journey without unnecessary delays. This factor became a game-changer, especially for those eager to begin their weight loss regimen promptly.
Final Verdict: Which Of The Ozempic Alternatives Are Fit For You?If you use injectable medication options like Ozempic, paying a hefty consultation fee for virtual visits or consulting a healthcare professional at every step can be your daily routine. Hence, we decided to vet brands selling products that may act as a suitable Ozempic alternative.
Granted, they may not have the same active ingredient as Ozempic, but it also means that you don’t have to worry about severe side effects.
Consuming either of the Ozempic alternatives mentioned above can help you achieve healthy weight loss and naturally lower blood sugar levels.
Suppose money isn’t a problem for you. In that case, we recommend checking out options like Ozemra and PhenQ as a healthcare professional-led team formulates them and is efficacious among most of its users.
However, people looking for affordable alternatives might want to check out supplements like Puravive.
If you suffer from pre-existing conditions or allergies, we recommend consulting your healthcare professional before buying either of the supplements mentioned above.
The news and editorial staff of the Monterey Herald had no role in this post’s preparation. This is a paid advertisement and does not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Monterey Herald, its employees, or subsidiaries.
Lakers to consider Golden State Warriors assistant Kenny Atkinson after firing Ham: report
After getting eliminated from the first round of the playoffs by Denver, the Los Angeles Lakers fired head coach Darvin Ham.
Among the candidates they’re expected to consider to replace Ham, according to The Athletic, is current Warriors assistant coach Kenny Atkinson.
Atkinson joined the Warriors in 2021 and won his first NBA championship that season as an assistant coach. He previously worked as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, as well as an assistant to Ty Lue with the Clippers, Mike Budenholzer in Atlanta, and Mike D’Antoni in New York.
Atkinson has been sought after before; last season, he reportedly turned down the chance to become the Hornets’ head coach after informally agreeing to an offer.
The Warriors’ bench has experienced some brain drain in recent years, as Mike Brown left to lead the Kings and Jama Mahlalela departed for Toronto. Assistant coach Dejan Milojevic also tragically died this season.
The Lakers fired Ham after two seasons in which the first-time head coach led the team to consecutive playoff berths. Los Angeles went 90-74 under Ham, who reportedly has two years left on his contract.
“We all want to thank Darvin for his dedication and positivity,” Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said in a statement. “While this was a difficult decision to make, it is the best course of action following a full review of the season. This organization will remain unwavering in its commitment to deliver championship-caliber basketball to Lakers fans around the world.”
Other likely candidates for the Lakers head coaching position, per The Athletic, include former player JJ Redick, Budenholzer, and Lue if he becomes available.
Measure S work on Lighthouse continues, nighttime work begins this month
MONTEREY — The citywide road resurfacing that began in Monterey last month and is expected to continue this month will continue to cause traffic delays.
Monterey is in the midst of phase four of the Measure S Citywide Road Resurfacing Project that was paused in October 2023 due to winter storms. It was picked up again in March and road work started April 1 and will finish in late May, according to the city’s timeline.
The roads included in this project are Lighthouse Avenue from David Avenue to the Lighthouse curve; Fremont Street from Munras Avenue to Aguajito Road; Munras Avenue from Fremont Street to Soledad Drive; Aguajito Road, Don Dahvee Lane, and Alta Mesa Road.

Work continues on Lighthouse Avenue intermittently during the day, with nighttime work scheduled for May 13 and May 14. The first steps were to create six-inch dugouts along the roadways, the next step is to slurry seal all the streets within the project and then come back and stripe the newly paved streets.
“The city is working to minimize disruptions to both residents and businesses including traffic impacts and night time noise. Utility adjustments and striping removal work will take place,” a statement from the city website reads.
The day work on Lighthouse is expected to start Monday and will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with one lane closure at a time. The lane closures will be isolated to the areas where utility work is on-going. Officials to have that work done by Thursday. Striping started on Munras Avenue during the day.
“The schedule will be set for the least traffic impact as possible, with crews starting after the morning commute, however, travelers should expect some minor delays,” said Deputy Public Works Director Andrew Easterling in a press release. “The good news is the roads, once resurfaced, will be smooth and have refreshed markings when we are done. The slurry seal treatment not only looks and drives better, but also keeps the pavement in good repair longer, and costs the city less to maintain in the long run.”
Measure S is a continuation of a one percent sales tax that was approved by more than 70 percent of voters in November 2014 for infrastructure rehabilitation, originally titled Measure P. The scope of Measure P was to fix streets, sidewalks, storm drains, and install accessible ramps and signals at intersections. Measure P sunset in March 2019 and Measure S was approved by two-thirds of voters which provides an additional eight years of funding, through March 31, 2027 to complete the repairs.
The street repairs will also indirectly help with traffic congestion, according to the city website. Many of the county’s larger traffic reduction projects are funded through Measure X, placed on the ballot in 2016 by the Transportation Agency and approved by 67 percent of voters.
Tristan Beck cleared to throw again after aneurysm, plus updates on SF Giants’ other injured pitchers
PHILADELPHIA — Three months since an aneurysm was discovered in his right shoulder, Tristan Beck was cleared to throw a baseball Friday and will begin his progression to return to the mound sometime this season.
The big step for Beck, 27, came after his latest follow-up appointment with Stanford vascular specialist Dr. Jason Lee, and was just one of a number of developments among injured Giants pitchers that the team provided before opening a four-game series against the Phillies.
Beck will start a light throwing program Monday in San Francisco, joining Alex Cobb in throwing off flat ground.
Cobb, 36, played catch Thursday for the first time since experiencing discomfort in his shoulder and is expected to progress to 60-75 feet over the weekend. Neither pitcher can be activated until May 27, though manager Bob Melvin indicated it’s more likely Cobb will be ready by then than Beck.
“Beck’s going to be a while,” Melvin said. “Until he actually gets on a mound, we’re really not sure when that’s going to be yet. It’s tough to forecast when he’s going to be ready.”
The Giants have a better sense of when they can count on Blake Snell, who missed his last start after straining his adductor during a bullpen session. Snell, 31, will throw a three-inning bullpen session Saturday and could progress afterward to a simulated game or a rehab assignment, Melvin said.
“He feels good, so that’s the most important thing,” Melvin said.
Related ArticlesSan Francisco Giants | Miscues loom large in SF Giants’ series-opening loss to Phillies San Francisco Giants | Patrick Bailey leaves SF Giants game vs. Phillies after foul ball off face mask San Francisco Giants | Mike Yastrzemski channels family history to power SF Giants over Red Sox at Fenway San Francisco Giants | A baseball legend visits SF Giants in Boston and leaves Bob Melvin speechless San Francisco Giants | SF Giants’ lineup doesn’t get it done in loss to Red SoxIn six times through Snell’s turn in the rotation — three of his starts and three covered by others — the Giants are 0-6 and have been outscored 55-12. They have a seventh to cover Monday in the series finale, and Melvin said “hopefully sometime in May” they will have Snell back in place.
“Maybe the third week,” Melvin said. “It all depends each and every time how he feels.”
Further down the road, Robbie Ray and Austin Warren continue to make progress in their returns from Tommy John surgery.
Both pitchers reached minor milestones in their bullpen sessions this week, throwing all of their pitches for the first time.
Ray, 32, should give the Giants another rotation option sometime around the All-Star break, when Warren could also provide some reinforcements to the bullpen.
Opposing views of Monterey Peninsula water supply filed with regulator
SACRAMENTO – Roughly a half-dozen agencies, governments and a nonprofit group have filed briefs with a state regulator that could determine whether or not California American Water Co. gets the OK for its years-long effort to build a desalination plant on the Monterey Peninsula.
The issue comes down to whether the peninsula will have enough water to meet the demand for the next three decades by tapping into recycled water, or whether a desal plant will be needed. Administrative Law Judge Robert Haga will examine the April 30 filings, render an up-or-down proposed ruling and ship it off to the five-member California Public Utilities Commission to vote on.
In late 2022, Cal Am won the hearts of the California Coastal Commission when the 12-member appointed body approved a permit allowing Cal Am, an investor-owned utility, to move forward with the desal plant in Marina. But for Cal Am, it was a double-edged sword.
In the Coastal Commission’s permit approval, despite a public outcry that ran roughly 4-1 against the desal project, the commission laid down some 20 conditions that need to be met before the first Cal Am shovel hits the ground. Many water watchers say some of the conditions are so stringent they would be extremely difficult for Cal Am to meet. Among them, Cal Am must receive approval by the CPUC.
Tuesday’s filings were arguments meant to persuade the judge on the overriding question of supply and demand. Six of the seven filings contain evidence that Monterey One Water’s Pure Water Monterey Expansion recycling project will produce more than enough water to meet the demand for the next three decades. The one counter filing was Cal Am’s.
Remleh Scherzinger, the general manager of Marina Coast Water District, one of the parties in the CPUC proceedings, said that supply and demand estimates by his agency, the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District, Pure Water Monterey and other public agencies, are fairly in alignment. The one outlier is Cal Am.
“Monterey Coast’s expert witness, Peter Mayer, is a nationally recognized authority on water demand management, Scherzinger said Thursday in an email interview. “He has consulted extensively for the California Department of Water Resources and the Metropolitan Water District” in Los Angeles.
What Mayer’s and experts from other agencies’ data indicate is that not only will there be enough water from recycling until 2050, there will be some left over.
“Marina Coast believes the evidence shows that when the Pure Water Monterey Expansion supply is added, there will be enough permanent supply for Cal Am to lift its (state imposed) moratorium, accomplish its Seaside Basin payback and continue meeting customer demands with at least a 10% supply cushion through 2050 without the need for any additional supply source,” Scherzinger said.
Cal Am in its filing also stated it based its estimated demand for the Monterey service area on expert analyses, state standards and requirements and “judicious assessments of the future needs of the Monterey customers, businesses and community.”
By the numbers, Cal Am says the Peninsula will need roughly 14,800 acre-feet of water by 2050 to meet the demand. One acre foot equals 325,851 gallons. But the California Public Advocate’s Office, a state agency independent of the CPUC, which is charged with looking out for ratepayers, puts the annual 2050 demand at 10,254 acre-feet. Analysis by the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District has a nearly identical estimate for 2050 of 10,559 acre-feet.
Why the discrepancy? The Peninsula water district says the answer is simple: “Cal Am grossly overstates demand,” the district said in its filing with the CPUC. Dave Stoldt, the general manager of the Peninsula district has explained that in order for Cal Am to reach its demand figures, it had to double and even triple count population.
For example, Cal Am includes “lots of record” along with estimated population growth, according the Peninsula water district’s filing. In Stoldt’s view, Cal Am is counting the vacant lots and the people who would live on that lot. “People use water, not lots,” Stoldt has said.
Cal Am isn’t budging on its estimates.
“The examples provided by those opposed to the desalination project are looking only in the near term and not looking responsibly into the future demand needs of the Monterey Peninsula,” said Josh Stratton, the manager of external affairs for Cal Am, on Friday.
In recent years demand has been retreating because of stepped up conservation efforts and possibly the high cost of Cal Am water, which is one of the highest in the country. Melodie Chrislock, the managing director of Public Water Now, which in 2018 launched the successful Measure J that called for the Peninsula water district to acquire the Monterey Peninsula assets of Cal Am.
“The Monterey Peninsula is using 22% less water than we did 10 years ago,” Chrislock said on Friday, alluding to the high cost of Cal Am water. “Anyone who pays a Cal Am bill knows why. But Cal Am is telling the CPUC that its Peninsula customers will simply start using more water, no matter what the cost. Has Cal Am really missed a basic principle of economics – when the price goes up, demand goes down – or is lying to the CPUC the new norm for Cal Am?”
Public Water Now has filed its own brief with the CPUC.
The Public Advocate’s Office in its 20-page brief said Cal Am has stated two different demand estimates – one for an application with the CPUC to increase rates, called a General Rate Case, and a different demand estimate in the supply and demand forecasts that were filed, a difference of 18%.
“Cal Am has not provided a satisfactory explanation for why its demand forecasts in the current application are approximately 18% greater than the demand forecasts it has submitted to the Commission in its current (rate case) application,” the Advocates Office said in its Tuesday filing.
Cal Am says it’s because the rate case demand is based on forecasts for 2024.
One question Cal Am raises with the CPUC is what it says is an uncertainty of the source water for Pure Water Monterey’s expansion project, and cites drought years that could potentially decrease the supply. The recycling project uses waste water that is purified to a potable level and then injected into a large aquifer called the Seaside Basin. It’s from that aquifer that Cal Am pumps water to customers.
“We have been fortunate enough to have had two recent wet years in a row, but there still exists a need for a drought-proof water supply in desalination,” Stratton said.
But Monterey One Water in its 28-page filing said as the owner and operator of Pure Water Monterey, it is in the best position to project the current and anticipated availability of source water and expected Pure Water production, citing a signed contract, called a Water Purchase Agreement, with Cal Am to deliver a specific minimum supply every year.
“(Monterey One Water) has also put its money where its mouth is in terms of executing the (Water Purchase Agreement) and committing to supply sufficient pure water to allow Cal Am to draw 5,750 acre feet from the Seaside Basin,” regardless if the region was experiencing a drought year or not, Monterey One said in its 32-page filing. “Cal Am curiously has attempted to question the viability of source waters despite its contractual rights in the (Water Purchase Agreement).”
Chrislock, with Public Water Now, put the reliability of Pure Water Monterey this way: “What are people going to do, stop showering? Stop flushing the toilet?”
As for Cal Am, it says that in the long run, the Peninsula will need additional water.
“California American Water stands by our demand data because the Monterey Peninsula needs replacement water for the mandatory 70% (state mandated) pumping reductions made to the Carmel River,” Stratton said, “and desalination achieves that long-term goal.”
How the Cat King in ‘Dead Boy Detectives’ captures a familiar queer dynamic
Tracy Brown | Los Angeles Times (TNS)
When the Dead Boy Detectives Edwin Paine and Charles Rowland are first summoned by the Cat King, the shape-shifting feline just wants retribution after they break his rules.
But after whisking Edwin away to privately discuss his crime and potential punishment, the Cat King is quick to admit that the handsome teen ghost fascinates him. He turns up his seductive charm — while shirtless in a fur robe — and then magically traps Edwin in his small town.
“Because Edwin has his walls up so much, it’s suddenly a game to him,” said Lukas Gage, the out actor who portrays the Cat King in the supernatural drama. “Edwin is very guarded and well put together so that entices the Cat King. He wants to rough him up a little bit and see him get angry and get kind of messy.”
Based on the comic book characters created by Neil Gaiman and Matt Wagner, “Dead Boy Detectives,” now streaming on Netflix, follows Edwin (George Rexstrew) and Charles (Jayden Revri), the show’s solvers of supernatural mysteries.
Edwin and Charles’ longstanding routine and dynamic are shaken up after they meet Crystal (Kassius Nelson), a very much living teenager with a demon ex-boyfriend and no memories of her past.
“We always knew that part of the Season 1 journey for all three of our core characters was going to be an exploration of identity,” said Steve Yockey, who developed the series.
“All of our characters are trying to figure out who they are,” added Beth Schwartz, who served as co-showrunner with Yockey. “They’re teenagers and they’re having a coming-of-age story, just in a nontraditional way because two of our main characters are dead.”
For Charles, who died in the 1980s after being attacked by school bullies, this involves confronting why he is so outwardly happy and positive all of the time. While Crystal, with no memory of herself, has to both figure out her actual identity and who she wants to be in the aftermath of a toxic relationship.
“For Edwin, we wanted to hit him from all sides,” said Yockey. “The Cat King is that older experienced man that maybe doesn’t have the best intentions, but is also charming and seductive. Monty (a younger supernatural suitor), who you think has nefarious intentions, really just tries to honestly be affectionate with Edwin. We’re just giving him all of these different eye-opener experiences and context as he slowly realizes, ‘Oh, wait, this is something that I am and it’s OK.’”
In addition to realizing he is attracted to men, Edwin has to sort through his feelings for his best friend over the course of the season. According to Yockey, the relationship between Cat King and Edwin was of particular interest for the gay writers on the show because it was a dynamic many of them were familiar with.
“When you first are starting to come out, you always find a more experienced gay man who’s happy to hold your hand and walk you into that world and not always with the best intentions,” said Yockey. Their aim was “capturing that in a supernatural way.”
While “Dead Boy Detectives” is set within the broader “Sandman” universe (as played up by a couple of cameos), the Cat King is an original character Yockey created for the series. A longtime fan of the “Dead Boy Detectives” comic books, “The Flight Attendant” showrunner explained that they wanted the Cat King “to be as fun as possible.”
“And then we got Lukas and that fun was realized,” said Yockey.
Gage, who has played a string of memorable roles in buzzy shows like “The White Lotus,” “You” and “Fargo,” said he didn’t have much time to really prepare for the Cat King since it immediately followed his wrap on this year’s remake of “Road House.” It wasn’t until he put on the Cat King’s robe and makeup for the wardrobe test that he figured out the character.
“He has a bunch of fur on and I remember [thinking] there’s a bit of a sensuality to this character,” said Gage. “He feels very comfortable in a robe and seducing this ghost in his lair.”
Gage admits he was primarily drawn to the project for the opportunity to work with Yockey, though he does describe himself as an animal person who loves both cats and dogs.
“I’ve been fascinated by cats and how they kind of just play hard to get and give you a little bit (of affection) and then they’re like ‘OK, I’m done with you, leave me alone,’” said Gage, who says his time as the Cat King was a joy. “I always love to play these kind of complicated characters that you can’t tell if you hate them or like them.”
For Gage, part of the excitement in playing characters like the Cat King where his backstory is a mystery is “the creative freedom to fill in the blanks for yourself.” So although he describes the Cat King as a brat, he believes it stems from past heartbreak.
The Cat King “clearly has a lot of wisdom and has been around for a long time, but there was a lot of idiosyncrasies with him,” said Gage. “He came off so cold and heartless, but I think it came from a place of getting his heart broken for hundreds of years.”
What made the Cat King particularly fun for Gage is that he is untrustworthy and a liar, even to himself. So in crafting the character, Gage was interested in exploring the Cat King’s rage as well as his narcissism.
“He loves hearing the sound of his own voice,” said Gage. “He loves the way he looks. He loves his body. I wanted to get in touch with that and [explore] how much of that was actually a lie, how much of that was a mask, how much of that was a front.”
For Gage, the Cat King’s thirst for attention, at least, was something he could relate to as an actor.
“I can connect to that as a kid who didn’t feel like he got enough attention growing up and (chose) this career where he essentially was going to have the world give him attention,” said Gage, with a laugh. The role also brought new challenges, such as acting opposite tennis balls that were stand-ins for cats that would be digitally added later. (Yockey and Schwartz said only two real cats were used during the production.)
And although he starts off just toying with Edwin, “there’s something kind of beautiful about this person that’s been around for hundreds of years but still has the giddiness and the butterflies of having a crush and falling in love again,” said Gage.
The showrunners credit Gage’s performance for the Cat King’s unique appeal.
“Lukas brought this fully realized performance,” said Yockey. “He has this sort of wink in what he does, and I think it’s really fun to see a character be playful about sexuality in a show that can be very serious on the topic sometimes.”
“Even though it’s this nefarious character that is a full-on predator, people come away from the show loving him because of Lukas’ charm,” said Schwartz. “He brought a different side to the Cat King, where the Cat King does start to really learn something about himself as well.”
Gage describes the Cat King’s arc as going from “jaded to open to possibilities.”
He also recognizes that “aspiring to be a supernatural creature is cornerstone queer culture in a way,” said Gage, who was so obsessed with “True Blood” in middle school that he wanted to be a vampire. “From my experience in the queer community, we love a form of expression other than dialogue. There’s something akin to drag in supernatural things.”
“There’s a part of my emo punk preteen [and] teen self that would have just devoured this show and the queerness of it all.”
©2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Horoscopes May 3, 2024: Christina Hendricks, change begins with you
CELEBRITIES BORN ON THIS DAY: Christina Hendricks, 49; Kristin Lehman, 52; Amy Ryan, 56; Frankie Valli, 90.
Happy Birthday: The green light means go; don’t waste time. Put your plans in motion and don’t look back. Concentrate on physical fitness, love and enjoying life to the fullest. Opportunities are apparent, but it’s up to you to set your sights on what you want and make it happen. Change begins with you, so don’t dawdle when you have plenty to gain. Trust your instincts. Your numbers are 4, 18, 24, 29, 31, 36, 44.
ARIES (March 21-April 19): Aggressive action will ward off conflicts. Say what’s on your mind and move along. You have to please yourself before taking on the task of making others happy. Focus on changes that make your life easier, and continue until you feel content. 3 stars
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Voice your opinion, participate, make a difference and share your feelings with someone you admire, and plans will transpire. Don’t allow outside influences to interfere when what you want to achieve requires your energy and undivided attention. Keep the peace and avoid volatile situations. 4 stars
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Refrain from displaying your plans or actions. Work behind the scenes until you master what you are trying to achieve. If you prematurely launch your next move, someone will judge you unfairly. Protect against interference and false information. 2 stars
CANCER (June 21-July 22): What you do counts. Size up whatever situation you find yourself facing and be the one to make a difference. Trust your insight, and you’ll come up with a plan that turns you into a leader. You’ll make a lasting impression on someone of interest. 5 stars
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Look around; know your environment and what you must consider before you proceed. Take the time to study your options and formulate a plan. Observe what others do and say, but avoid following in their footsteps. Do your own thing and learn as you go. 3 stars
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Have fun. Look for entertainment that puts a sparkle in your eye and encourages you to be a participant. What you learn from the people you encounter will brighten your day and trigger your imagination. Love, romance and happiness are favored. 3 stars
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Base your conclusions on finance, fact and familiarity. If you jump impulsively, you’ll have to backtrack. Completion is the objective, so don’t dawdle when action is necessary. A discussion with someone close to you will make or break your relationship. Choose your words wisely. 3 stars
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Make unique plans, try something new, change your routine and challenge yourself to do something you keep putting off. Give yourself the benefit of the doubt, and you won’t be disappointed in what you achieve. Explore the possibilities and make a move. Don’t take a physical risk. 5 stars
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): A change of environment will help distance you from despair. Don’t stick around where you face ridicule and criticism. Get out and about, do something physical to work off energy and surround yourself with people who enrich your life instead of tearing it apart. 2 stars
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don’t sidle up to someone who questions your lifestyle. Get involved with people who share your concerns and enjoy the same pastimes as you. There is comfort in familiarity and ease that comes with knowing you aren’t going to face conflict when you should receive support. 4 stars
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Don’t aid a physical challenge. An intelligent gesture will deter anyone who tries to give you a hard time. Don’t dispute a domestic change; if it saves money and eases your mind, it’s worthwhile. Put your energy into improving yourself and your lifestyle. 3 stars
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Care less about what others think or do and more about your contributions to your life and those you love. Don’t hesitate to make a move or attend an event that takes you down memory lane. Let your emotions lead the way. 3 stars
Birthday Baby: You are kind, loyal and helpful. You are conscientious and proactive.
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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May 2, 2024
Report: NYPD officer fired gun while clearing Columbia building
By Ryan Pearson, Julie Watson, Christopher L. Keller and Carolyn Thompson | Associated Press
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A police officer who was involved in clearing protesters from a Columbia University administration building earlier this week fired his gun inside the hall, a spokesperson for District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office confirmed Thursday.
No one was injured, according to spokesperson Doug Cohen, who said there were other officers but no students in the immediate vicinity. He said Bragg’s office is conducting a review.
He did not provide additional details on the incident, which was first reported by news outlet The City.
The New York Police Department did not immediately respond to The Associated Press’ request for comment.
The gunfire came as police officers stormed Hamilton Hall late Tuesday. Pro-Palestinian protesters had been barricaded inside for more than 20 hours. Video showed officers with zip ties and riot shields streaming through a second-floor window. Police had said protesters inside presented no substantial resistance.
More than 100 protesters were taken into custody during the crackdown. They are part of more than 2,000 people who have been arrested during pro-Palestinian protests at college campuses across the United States in recent weeks, according to an Associated Press tally Thursday.
Columbia’s demonstrators had seized Hamilton Hall early Tuesday, ramping up their presence on the campus from a tent encampment that had been there since April 17. The encampment was one of the earliest on college campuses.
Despite more than 100 arrests the next day and the clearing of the tents, the protesters defied threats of suspension to return to the encampment. Then they escalated their demonstration by occupying Hamilton Hall, an administration building that was similarly seized in 1968 by students protesting racism and the Vietnam War.
Beyond Columbia’s New York campus, demonstrations and arrests have occurred in almost every corner of the nation. In the last 24 hours, they’ve drawn the most attention at the University of California, Los Angeles, where chaotic scenes played out early Thursday when officers in riot gear surged against a crowd of demonstrators.
Hundreds of protesters at UCLA defied orders to leave, some forming human chains as police fired flash-bangs to break up the crowds.
At least 200 people were arrested, said Sgt. Alejandro Rubio of the California Highway Patrol, citing data from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Another 300 people voluntarily left throughout the hourslong standoff, some filing out of the encampment with their hands over their heads in a show of peaceful surrender, according to the university. Others ran away as baton-wielding officers pushed into the hordes that numbered more than 1,000 people.
Later Thursday morning, workers removed barricades and dismantled the protesters’ fortified encampment. Bulldozers scooped up bags of trash and tents. Royce Hall was covered in graffiti.Tent encampments of protesters calling on universities to stop doing business with Israel or companies they say support the war in Gaza have spread across campuses nationwide in a student movement unlike any other this century.
The demonstrations began at Columbia University on April 17, with students calling for an end to the Israel-Hamas war, which has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, according to the Health Ministry there. Israel launched its offensive in Gaza after Hamas militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took roughly 250 hostages in an attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7.
UCLA Chancellor Gene Block said in statement Thursday that the encampment had become “a focal point for serious violence as well as a huge disruption.” He said days of clashes between demonstrators and counterdemonstrators endangered people on campus, students were unable to get to class, buildings had to be closed and classes were canceled.
“The past week has been among the most painful periods our UCLA community has ever experienced,” he said. “It has fractured our sense of togetherness and frayed our bonds of trust, and will surely leave a scar on the campus.”
Police in riot gear poured into the UCLA campus by the hundreds early Thursday. Wearing face shields and protective vests, they held their batons out to separate themselves from demonstrators, who wore helmets and gas masks and chanted: “You want peace. We want justice.”
For hours, officers warned over loudspeakers that there would be arrests if the crowd did not disperse. Protesters and police shoved and scuffled. Police helicopters hovered and the sound of flash-bangs pierced the air. Police pulled off protesters’ helmets and goggles as they made arrests.
Police methodically tore apart the encampment’s barricade of plywood, pallets, metal fences and dumpsters, then pulled down canopies and tents.
The law enforcement presence and continued warnings contrasted with the scene Tuesday night, when counterdemonstrators attacked the pro-Palestinian encampment. Campus administrators and police did not intervene or call for backup for hours. No one was arrested, but at least 15 protesters were injured.
The delayed response drew criticism from political leaders, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and officials pledged an independent review.
Ariel Dardashti, a graduating UCLA senior studying global studies and sociology, said no student should feel unsafe on campus.
“It should not get to the point where students are being arrested,” Dardashti said on campus Thursday.
Dardashti said he can relate to the trauma suffered by Palestinians.
“When my dad was fleeing Iran, he prayed that his children wouldn’t have to face antisemitism,” Dardashti said. “We’re afraid of having to flee again in the same way our parents did.”
Iranian state television carried live images of the police action at UCLA, as did Qatar’s pan-Arab Al Jazeera satellite network. Live images of Los Angeles also played across Israeli television networks.
Israel has branded the protests antisemitic, while Israel’s critics say it uses those allegations to silence opposition. Although some protesters have been caught on camera making antisemitic remarks or violent threats, protest organizers — some of whom are Jewish — call it a peaceful movement to defend Palestinian rights and protest the war.
President Joe Biden on Thursday defended the students’ right to peaceful protest but decried the disorder of recent days.
California Republican leaders blasted university administrations for failing to protect Jewish students and allowing protests to escalate into “lawlessness and violence.” They called for the firing of leaders at UCLA and California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, and pushed for a proposal that would cut pay for university administrators.
“We’ve got a whole lot of people in these universities drawing six-figure salaries and they stood by and did nothing,” Assembly Republican Leader James Gallagher told reporters.
Meanwhile, protest encampments at schools across the U.S. were cleared by police — resulting in more arrests — or closed up voluntarily.
A college professor from Illinois said he suffered multiple broken ribs and a broken hand during a pro-Palestine protest on Saturday at Washington University in St. Louis.
Bystander video shows the arrest of Steve Tamari, a history professor at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. He seems to be moving in to take video or photos of protesters being detained when multiple officers roughly take him down.
In a post on the social platform X, Sandra Tamari said her husband needed surgery on his hand and has nine broken ribs.
Tamari said in a statement Thursday that it was “a small price to pay for Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza.” Campus police referred questions to the university’s communications department, which did not respond to a request for comment.
Elsewhere, University of Minnesota officials reached an agreement with protesters not to disrupt commencements. Similar agreements have been made at Northwestern University in suburban Chicago, Rutgers University in New Jersey and Brown University in Rhode Island.
Meanwhile, a professors group at Columbia University condemned school leadership on Thursday for asking police to remove protesters in what the group called a “horrific police attack on our students.” Officers burst into a building Tuesday, breaking up a demonstration that had paralyzed the school and taking more than 100 people into custody.
Watson reported from San Diego, Keller reported from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Thompson reported from Buffalo, New York. Associated Press journalists around the country contributed to this report, including Ethan Swope, Krysta Fauria, Leslie Ambriz, John Antczak, Christopher L. Keller, Lisa Baumann, Stefanie Dazio, Jae C. Hong, Colleen Long, Karen Matthews, Sarah Brumfield, Carolyn Thompson, Philip Marcelo, Steve Karnowski and Eugene Johnson.
Warriors executive officially joins Atlanta Hawks as assistant GM
ATLANTA — Making official what was previously reported, Onsi Saleh was officially hired Thursday by the Hawks as an assistant general manager, coming to Atlanta from Golden State.
Saleh served last season as the Warriors’ vice president of basketball strategy and team counsel. He joins a front office that already includes assistant GM Kyle Korver, who is now working under general manager Landry Fields, a Stanford alum.
Before joining Golden State in 2021, Saleh spent five years with the San Antonio Spurs, finishing as the team’s director of strategy and process, along with the role of chief of staff.
“Onsi has played significant roles with two of the most well-respected organizations in the NBA,” Fields said in a statement. “In addition to his experience and expertise, we are thrilled to add someone with our shared values to our leadership team.”
ESPN reported Saleh’s departure from the Warriors last month.
Saleh joins a team that hasn’t won a playoff series since a surprising run to the Eastern Conference final in 2021. The Hawks went 36-46 this season, finishing 10th in the East before a quick elimination during the play-in round.
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In March, Saleh was named to the 2024 San Francisco Business Times 40 Under 40 list.