Good morning, Salinas.

The Monterey County Fair welcomed thousands at the fairgrounds Thursday — a 2.5 percent increase has been recorded — featuring live music, rides starting at 3 p.m. for adults, and family attractions continuing today and Monday.

Food, unique exhibits and carnival games added to the festive weekend.

A new California law will ban watering decorative grass even in non-drought years starting Jan.

1 — first affecting schools, cities, and counties before later extending to businesses and homeowners associations.

Monterey Bay FC tied 1-1 with Phoenix Rising after a late goal extended their winless streak to 12 games.

The Monterey Herald’s top 10 girls’ cross country rankings have been published — highlighting local high school teams and emerging talent.

The list may guide upcoming meets.

The Mission Foods Grand Prix of Monterey is honoring racer Alex Zinardi as the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca renames the Corkscrew — a nod to his legendary pass — and unveils a commemorative marker; the final race is today at noon with Fox at 11:30 a.m.

Hartnell's defense made two key stops in the final minutes to secure a 26-20 win over Chabot while MPC's offense struggled in a 10-6 loss to San Jose.

Neasean Mitchells rushed for 235 yards, scored two touchdowns, and intercepted a late pass in Monterey to secure a 26-20 win over Seaside.

The strong play boosts local high school football excitement for the season.

Thursday's Monterey County football games saw Gilroy (28-9), North County (18-13), King City (34-0), and Alisal (35-10) win; Friday's contests ended with Carmel (34-20), Sacred Heart Cathedral (28-7), Half Moon Bay (42-0), Los Gatos (41-35), and Hollister (52-0) topping their opponents.