Good morning, Salinas.

Jenny Gray replaces longtime leader Julie Packard as CEO of the Monterey Bay Aquarium following Packard’s retirement last month, plus Gray led Zoos Victoria for 17 years and plans to build on the aquarium’s conservation success.

The leadership change marks a new chapter for the renowned institution.

Lover’s Point Beach in Pacific Grove reopened on Saturday — officials advised against water activities after a dead juvenile humpback whale attracted sharks near Hopkins Marine Station, and experts from UC Santa Cruz’s Long Marine Lab are testing the whale to determine its cause of death.

A juvenile humpback whale washed ashore at Sunset State Beach near Watsonville Saturday night, marking the second stranding this week along Monterey Bay.

Marine responders from UC Santa Cruz—San Jose State labs are testing samples while urging the public to steer clear of sensitive wildlife areas.

CAL FIRE crews are working to suppress a vegetation fire off Vineyard Canyon Road near Parkfield today while officials advise drivers to avoid the area for safety.

Salinas City Council voted last week to amend the transit center name to also call the area Salinas City Heritage Park; local stakeholders expect the change to boost heritage tourism and honor the city’s rich past near downtown.

Salinas graduate Delilah Vega is transferring from Cal State Bakersfield to UC Santa Barbara to resume her soccer career as she looks for more playing time with her new team.

Monterey Bay FC played Sacramento Saturday in the Prinix Tires USL Cup, finishing 1-1 before losing 5-3 in penalty kicks.

The team scored in nine straight games as it remains winless in Cup matches.

St. Francis will add Hall of Famer Bryant Young — famed for his time with the 49ers — and former quarterback Alex Smith as assistant coaches this fall to boost its team.

Alisal's Trojans fell 4-2 to Escalon in the CIF State NorCal Division IV softball final on Saturday.

The team rallied late in the seventh inning but stranded runners and made uncharacteristic errors before promising to return stronger next year (they will move into the Gabilan Division).

Celebrate America Fireworks Extravaganza

3 PM — Salinas Sports Complex — Admission varies — Experience a family festival with food trucks, carnival rides, patriotic music, and the largest fireworks display in Monterey County.