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YMCA youth basketball to start Jan. 4 | News, Sports, Jobs

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ESCANABA — Registration is now open for the 2026 Northern Lights YMCA youth basketball programs that starts Sunday, Jan. 4.

Space is limited, so families are encouraged to sign up early.

The YMCA offers programs for a variety of skill levels:

— Little Dunkers (ages 4 through 6): An introductory program focused on teaching basic skills and fundamentals in a fun, supportive environment. This program does not include game play, allowing young players to build confidence and develop their abilities.

— Beginner League (grades 1 and 2): Young athletes will practice twice a week and participate in Sunday games to develop teamwork, fundamentals and a love of the game.

— Junior League (grades 3 through 6): Details will be announced soon. This program will take place after the Beginner League season concludes and will continue to build skills, teamwork and game experience for older players.

The YMCA is also seeking coaches and referees to support these programs. Program discounts are available for parents interested in volunteering their time to help young players learn and grow.

For more information or to register, contact Raquel Schon at rschon@nlymca.com or 906-789-0005.



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1 injured, 1 arrested after shooting at youth football tournament in Naples | Collier County

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A shooting at Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples sent one person to the hospital and led to an arrest. The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Friday during a youth football tournament.

According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, James Raynard was taken to the hospital and William Wharton was taken into custody.

Viewer video shows the aftermath of the shooting on Friday.

WARNING: GRAPHIC VIDEO

Dajsha Herndon, a mother of a youth football player, expressed her thoughts on the violence.

“It really doesn’t matter what’s it about, because I don’t think you should ever result in violence for anything,” said Herndon.

Herndon’s 12-year-old son traveled from Washington, D.C., to participate in the tournament.

“It’s actually a little scary. And on top of that, I just feel like it’s a game of football,” said Herndon.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Despite the incident, Herndon believes the tournament’s overall safety is not compromised.

“Do I fear for safety? No, within the complex No, because I feel like it’s super, super secure,” said Herndon.

The Paradise Coast Sports Complex has not commented on the shooting, stating only that it is an ongoing matter. The tournament is scheduled to continue until 5 p.m. on Friday, with more games planned for Saturday.

Nicholas Karsen is a Digital Specialist and has been with WINK News since May 2023.



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Oklahoma City Thunder offers youth basketball camps in Tulsa

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The Oklahoma City Thunder is hosting two youth basketball camps in Tulsa this winter, with spots available for children ages 6-16. T

The first camp will be held on Dec. 22 at Arena 918 in Glenpool from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for ages 6-14, priced at $65.

The second camp is scheduled for Jan. 2 at Ascension St. John Sportsplex in Tulsa from 8 a.m. to noon for ages 10-16, priced at $100.

Registration includes a t-shirt or jersey, basketball, Simple Modern water bottle, and a ticket to a 2025-26 Thunder home game. T

he camps, presented by Simple Modern, emphasize fundamentals, teamwork, and building self-confidence.

For more information and registration, visit okcthunder.com/wintercamps.



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Youth movement paying off for Moren and Hoosiers in rout of Louisiana Monroe

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Freshman used to not be able to play college basketball. Not at the varsity level at least. The verdict was that freshmen just weren’t ready to compete. 

The rule was changed ahead of the 1973 season, but if you look at some of head coach Teri Moren’s lineups over her first 11 seasons at Indiana, you might think the rule never passed. 

Moren’s teams were known for their veterans once she rebuilt Indiana into a perennial tournament team, not the freshman. At least not in the starting lineup. There have been exceptions, players like Yarden Garzon did it a few seasons ago. 

Freshman starting just hasn’t been the norm in Bloomington, but now, 52 years after the rule was changed, Indiana found themselves starting two freshmen against the University of Louisiana Monroe.

Down to nine players due to injury. Coming off their worst performance of the year. Somebody had to step up. 

On Thursday night, it was the freshmen’s turn as Indiana would rout ULM 98-54 to move to 9-2 on the year.

Nevaeh Caffey had started every game this season due to her relentless defensive energy. She had even been compared to former Hoosier Nicole Cardaño-Hillary, a former Big Ten All-Defensive team member, by Moren earlier this season. 

Caffey was joined in the starting five by highly touted freshman and 2025 Indiana Miss Basketball Maya Makalusky. Makalusky came off the bench in Indiana’s first 10 contests behind Valentyna Kadlecova but got her first starting nod from Moren against the Warhawks.

“(After) the game at Illinois, we needed to do something to mix it up a little bit,” Moren said about the decision. “She deserved to have an opportunity to be in the lineup tonight because she talks, she has a great energy level.”

The decision paid off for Moren and the Hoosiers as Makalusky had her best game of her young career.

Makalusky set a new high in points, 22, on 6-for-10 shooting from downtown in addition to a pair of steals. The highlight of the night was a circus-shot 3-pointer as Makalusky fell out of bounds from the wing.

Moren’s favorite highlight? Makalusky opening the game with a charge. 

Makalusky felt good about her performance but is making sure to not let complacency creep in.

“It definitely feels great for your hard work to pay off, but the job’s not done,” Makalusky said. “I got to continue to maintain that role and do what I need to do to stay on the court.”

For Caffey, she delivered yet another good defensive performance with two steals while adding in six points but was limited by foul trouble at times.

“Nevaeh has to stay out of foul trouble for us,” Moren said. “Nevaeh has played well for us. She just has to be better and more sound defensively.”

It was a display that encapsulates the potential that a young Indiana team has and how good they could be when firing on all cylinders. 

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Nevaeh Caffey plays defense during Indiana’s win over Marshall on Nov. 11, 2025. (HN photo/Jake Weinberg)

The youth movement combined with the veterans Shay Ciezki and Lenée Beaumont who added 31 and 18 points, respectively, has the Hoosiers back on the upturn after an ugly performance against Illinois to open conference play. 

The trio of Ciezki, Makalusky and Beaumont outscored ULM as a team 71-54 which helped the Hoosiers in their best offensive night of the regular season, topping their 95-point performance against Iowa State. 

All of this without star center Zania Socka-Nguemen, as she continues to be labeled as “week to week,” Moren said. Despite ditching the scooter, she is still in a walking boot as she continues to work back from her injury.

Socka-Ngueman wasn’t the only player absent as Jerni Kiaku missed with the flu and Faith Wiseman missed due to a collision in practice. The Hoosiers especially missed Wiseman and Socka-Ngueman inside as ULM outrebounded Indiana 37-33 while grabbing 19 offensive rebounds to Indiana’s one. 

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Lenée Beaumont drives through contact during Indiana’s win over University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) on Dec. 11, 2025. (HN photo/J.T. Frenzel)

Despite the rebounding woes, it was a necessary bounce back win for the Hoosiers and it shows a payoff for Moren’s youth movement in the rebuild in Bloomington. 

For decades there was a belief that freshmen weren’t ready to compete at the highest level and at times under Moren, this belief rained true. 

But on a night where the Hoosiers needed a spark, two freshmen stepped up and brought the energy that Indiana needed. 


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Jacobs reverses course on Bonanza Inn rehab, now intends to demolish aging building

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Jacobs Entertainment, the company behind the downtown Reno ‘Neon Line’ corridor along 4th. St., announced that it now intends to demolish the dilapidated Bonanza Inn building.

CEO Jeff Jacobs previously said he planned to refurbish the building into 59 affordable housing units, even calling that project ‘The Breeze,’ but confirmed the change of plans Thursday.

A statement from the company cited the ‘recent increases in construction costs’ as the reason:

Given the recent increases in construction costs, renovation is no longer a financially viable pathway forward. As a result, Jacobs Entertainment is filing a demolition permit to allow for future construction with a larger scope than initially planned.

The new plans and the timeline for the project on that site were not announced.

The Reno Housing Authority attempted to purchase the property in 2022 but was unsuccessful. Jacobs initially said he would not be interested in the Bonanza Inn, but ended up purchasing the 215 W. 4th St. property at auction for $3 million in early 2024.

In addition to the Bonanza Inn update, Jacobs also announced that it is submitting building permits to start construction on the first 4 youth sports fields. It comes as the company announced this fall its intentions to build 12 total fields over the next 6 years and create a new ‘traveling youth sports initiative’ called the Downtown Reno Amateur Sports Association.

“These new fields are going to help continue to transform downtown Reno,” said Jonathan Boulware, vice president of Nevada operations for Jacobs Entertainment. “We’re very excited to help bring youth sports to downtown Reno.”

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This is a developing story. Check back with News 4-Fox 11 for updates.



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Little League® Diamond Leader Discussion: Jack Malone

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For “Coach Jack” Malone, being part of the Little League Challenger Division® has been one of his proudest accomplishments. His journey began when he first heard about the Upper Darby (Pa.) Little League —  a Challenger Division-only program —  in 1993, while registering his four-year-old daughter to play in her first season. He was asked to help coach, and he never looked back.

Now, as the League President, Malone was recognized for the continuous hard work, patience, and dedication that shine on and off the field and was named the 2025 Little League® Challenger Division Coach of the Year, Supported by Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA).

“It’s a thrill. It’s a testimonial for my Challenger family. Over the 34 years, my parents, players, and fellow coaches have been supportive,” said Malone. “It’s an honor that I never thought I would receive, and I graciously accept it.”

Recognized as the December 2025 Little League Diamond Leader of the Month, Malone shared his experience in a Diamond Leader Discussion:

Why do you think it is important for coaches and volunteers to take the Little League Diamond Leader Training Program?

I think it’s important because there are so many different aspects, other than being on the field with the kids. Being able to recognize abuse, bullying, and other things that a child may be struggling with and learning ways we can help is what it is all about. I think the Diamond Leader Training brought in so many different aspects of the game that are helpful. I think it just gives you a different insight into what we’re doing out there, other than just showing up and going out on the field with the kids.

What lessons from the training specifically do you plan to carry into future seasons?

I plan to carry the lesson of trying to understand what each athlete is going through and making sure that they are happy. If there is something that is troubling them, it’s important that I try to understand and find out why. It is paramount to always be looking for what is best for your athlete at all times.

Why should people volunteer in a Challenger Division program?

It is so rewarding to have individuals out there with a multitude of different disabilities, some physical, some mental, and to have them enjoy the great game of baseball. I don’t set any limits; I let players try anything they want in terms of batting and fielding. If the athlete wants me to pitch to them, I am pitching to them. If they are in a wheelchair and want to swing one-handed, that’s completely fine. I will always have patience for these athletes.

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The Little League Diamond Leader program, which was first piloted with nearly 1,000 Little League volunteers throughout the 2022 season, was created as part of the Susan Crown Exchange’s Million Coaches Challenge and developed in coordination with the  Aspen Institute’s Project Play. Focused on ensuring children have a positive, well-rounded experience on and off the field, the Little League Diamond Leader Training Program is a FREE educational resource that provides coaches with an understanding of the impact that mental, social, and emotional well-being has in youth sports through detailed information, interactive scenarios, and a variety of additional resources. Learn more and become a Diamond Leader yourself by visiting LittleLeague.org/DiamondLeader.     

Diamond Leader Training



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December Update: 2025 A Year of Delivering Results | The Pajaronian

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As we close out the year, I want to provide District 4 with a clear update on the work we’ve advanced together. My priorities have remained steady: deliver improvements, protect our families, and bring long-overdue investment to South County. This year was defined by follow-through, projects long discussed finally moved into action, and progress is now visible across our community.

Investing in Parks and Community Spaces

One of the most significant steps forward was progress on Valle del Pájaro Park, a 38-acre regional park and the largest project of its kind in decades. We are now moving toward a master plan shaped directly by community input. We also continued investing in recreation. Renovations advanced on the pump track, and we secured funding for a new skate park at Pinto Lake County Park. At Mesa Village Park, we are working to raise funds for upgrades including restored bathrooms, resurfaced basketball court, a youth soccer field, and a natural play area, reflecting our commitment to safe, active spaces for local families. If you are interested in donating, please reach out to our office.

Strengthening Roads and Local Infrastructure

Improving our transportation network remained a top priority. District 4 saw progress on several overdue projects, including:

  • A new bike and pedestrian path on Green Valley Road
  • Road Resurfacing on Scurich Road, Rogge Road, Murphy Crossing, College Road, and Holohan Road, in addition to many other roads in the City of Watsonville
  • Holohan/Highway 152 intersection improvements
  • New state funding for critical Casserly Road repairs

These investments improve safety, mobility, and daily quality of life for South County residents.

Protecting Families and Advancing Flood Resilience

Supporting families through emergencies remains central to our work. Following the 2023 floods, our office continued assisting Watsonville and Pajaro residents with resources, recovery, and long-term support.  A historic milestone this year was securing $700 million for the Pajaro River Levee Project. Construction on the Corralitos Creek segment begins within weeks, one of the largest public-safety investments in our region’s history.

Expanding Opportunities to Learn and Participate

Public engagement remained a priority. Together with Mayor Maria Orozco, we hosted a first-time homebuyer forum offering guidance on the buying process and Watsonville’s affordable housing programs.  We also held a BESS Town Hall, giving residents direct access to experts, clear explanations, and space to ask questions and share feedback on energy-storage projects.

Supporting Youth Leadership and Community Safety

This year we continued investing in the Young Supervisors Academy, a two-and-a-half-week program that introduces high school students and recent graduates to policymaking, leadership, and public service. The program concluded with a Mock Legislative Hearing on homelessness and Watsonville’s Tiny Homes Project, showcasing the thoughtful ideas of our next generation of leaders. 

We also strengthened public safety through prevention. In partnership with District Attorney Jeff Rosell and Sheriff Chris Clark, we hosted a Fraud Prevention Community Conversation, equipping residents with tools to avoid scams, identity theft, and financial exploitation.

Keeping Our Neighborhoods Clean

Neighborhood cleanups continued throughout the year led my office in strong partnerships with the Trash Talkers Coalition, County Community Development and Infrastructure, City of Watsonville Public Works, Watsonville Wetlands Watch, Pajaro Valley Fire, and dozens of volunteers. Their dedication has made a visible difference across parks, roads, and neighborhoods.

Accessing Services Close to Home

The South County Government Center continues to make essential services easily accessible for local families. Residents can access veterans’ services, health and human services, tax assistance, elections services, passport renewals, and more, right here in Watsonville. 

Promoting Health and Wellness

In partnership with Bike Santa Cruz County, we hosted three community bike rides, bringing together residents of all ages to promote healthy, active living and build connections across the district.

2024 Agricultural Crop Report

The Santa Cruz County Agricultural Commissioner released the 2024 Crop Report, showing an estimated gross production value of $741.9 million, a 13.3% increase over 2023. Strawberries remain the top crop at $218.9 million across 2,640 acres, and berry crops overall continue to dominate, representing 60% of total production value.

County CEO Carlos J. Palacios Retires

Earlier this month, County Executive Officer Carlos J. Palacios retired after a distinguished 30-year public service career. As the County’s first Latino CEO, he guided the community through wildfires, floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic while advancing housing, equity, fiscal stability, and emergency recovery. His legacy of collaboration and service will have lasting impact.

Looking Ahead

Thank you to the residents of District 4 for your trust, your input, and your continued engagement. Every accomplishment reflects your priorities and your commitment to a stronger South County. As we close out the year, I want to wish you and your families a warm and joyful holiday season, and all the very best in 2026.



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