Good morning, Salinas.

Yesterday, the Salinas Police Department distributed toys and books to several hundred children in the community, emphasizing compassion (not enforcement) to nurture local bonds.

Heavy winds damaged a 170-year-old barn on Watson Ranch in Salinas today — the owner said it is the second time severe weather hit the structure after similar damage in 2017 and plans to repair it while no animals were hurt.

Seaside resident Sandra Johnson, pardoned on November 7 by Governor Newsom, now works as a senior racial economic justice worker advocate at Legal Aid at Work and uses her journey to help justice-impacted individuals overcome employment hurdles.

She speaks at local reentry programs (highlighting personal transformation and systemic change).

Stevenson School in Pebble Beach will open a new math and science building next school year — a center designed to connect the school with the community and prepare students for future research.

Monterey County road closures remained in effect on Christmas due to severe storms that downed trees and power lines (including a damaged marina structure) and triggered widespread power outages affecting nearly 15,500 customers.

Repair crews assessed damage while local resource centers provided emergency relief.

During the season, Salinas High softball kept playing past graduation to capture the Northern California Division II title, & North Salinas track star Clara Adams lost her state title after breaking celebration rules; local teams set records & reached big milestones in a memorable high school sports year.

Palma graduate Jamaree Bouyea is playing for the Phoenix Suns and is averaging an NBA career-high 7.1 points a game.

Chamber Music Monterey Bay: Lysander Piano Trio

8 p.m. — Harden Ranch Plaza — Contact for ticket info — Experience exquisite musical performances by the renowned Lysander Piano Trio.

Dr Cesar Lozano Live

8-9:30 p.m. — Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the engaging humor and insight of Dr. Cesar Lozano in Salinas.