Good morning, Salinas.

A new community park opened yesterday in Salinas—California lawmakers are working on a bill to tackle an invasive swan species.

A former Salinas construction controller, 42-year-old Monique Marie Dodson, was charged with six counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering for allegedly stealing over $8 million from her past employer.

She is set to appear in San Jose today for arraignment after allegedly making 136 unauthorized transfers from October 2021 to November 2023—according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Cal State Monterey Bay President Vanya Quiñones marked her third anniversary on Friday while noting a 23% enrollment increase and challenges with housing and funding.

The university is expanding its housing from 3,200 to 4,000 beds this semester and will add 600 more over the next three years—efforts that come with a $27 million project and a planned science building to support students.

The county announced that the Old Stage Road Overlay Project will begin next Monday to repave the road from Alisal Road to Quail Creek using new asphalt—complete with grinding, striping, marking, and reflectors.

Overnight work is scheduled Aug 25—27 and Sept 2—3 from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.—travelers must use alternate routes during these closures.

Ten returning football players from Palma, Alisal, Salinas, North Salinas and Alvarez high schools are on The Californian's 2025 Preseason Player of the Year ballot—voting will end at midnight on Sept.

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Rancho San Juan High School is starting a new era in football as first-year head coach Andrew Zarate rebuilds the team in the Santa Lucia Division—he aims to break a 16-game losing streak while building strong fundamentals and a winning culture.

The program will focus on a balanced offense and defense to help players grow and boost team confidence.

Flower Arranging Workshop

3-5 p.m. — Cesar Chavez Library — Free entry — Let your creativity bloom with stunning arrangements using organic flowers like dahlias.

Alicia Villareal Live Concert

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Fox Theater — Tickets available — Experience a captivating live performance by the renowned singer whose career spans decades.

Monterey County Fair

5 PM – 11 PM — Monterey County Fairgrounds — Admission varies — Celebrate the local culture with rides, food, and entertainment at this family-friendly fair.