Good morning, Salinas.

Historic preservationist Kent Seavey has spent over 60 years saving local landmarks and shaping our region’s history (he worked on projects at Cannery Row and Paraiso Springs).

In May, he received the 2026 President’s Award for Advocacy from the California Preservation Foundation.

Stevenson School has opened two new centers in Del Monte Forest this month, including the Day Science and Engineering Center and the John Senuta Math Center which replace a 1960s building and add an astronomy deck (donor funded).

Firefighters in Big Sur strengthened containment lines for the Timber Fire on Wednesday, lowering one evacuation order to a warning and shortening Highway 1 closure near Deetjens Big Sur Inn; the fire burned 5,526 acres and is 24% contained with some zones still under evacuation orders.

Firefighters from across the state are using Cal State Monterey Bay as a base camp to fight the Timber Fire in Big Sur.

They prepare in difficult terrain & adjust tactics for steep slopes and humid conditions before heading into the rugged coastal area.

San Jose State researchers are urging Monterey County to review their early findings from the Moss Landing battery fire — which detected high metal levels soon after the event — alongside a later Vistra-commissioned study.

Their request may lead to further environmental testing in the area.

California drivers may soon see self-driving semi-trucks testing on public roads after updated DMV rules allow trucks over 10,000 lbs to operate with a mandatory safety driver.

Two companies have secured permits — they must meet strict testing and reporting rules before driverless shifts begin.

The Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency board approved a $1B plan on Aug.

13 to fight seawater intrusion by launching Portfolio 3A with projects in Salinas & Castroville, and it will refine the plans with a draft letter to DWR by mid-September.

Watsonville Community Hospital closed its NICU due to a nursing shortage and expects reopening in several weeks.

Infants needing extra care are sent to hospitals in Santa Cruz and Salinas (the nearest options for specialized treatment).

The Coastal Commission approved a 100-room resort proposal called the Collections Resort in Sand City on Aug.

12, featuring a hotel, campground, restaurant and spa, along with plans to restore habitat and expand public trails — the project represents nearly 50 years of planning that will later address coastal hazards.

Nine individuals and one team will be inducted into the Salinas Valley Sports Hall of Fame this weekend.

The ceremony will celebrate local sports achievements and honor contributions from longtime community members.