Youth substance abuse info session set for Thursday
SOLEDAD — Community Schools and the Youth Safety Network are partnering with the Soledad Police Department to host an informational session focused on substance use among youth.
The event will provide parents and families with information about warning signs, current trends, prevention and available resources. Organizers say the session is intended to help families better understand substance use and learn ways to support the safety and well-being of young people. The presentation will also cover ways parents can connect with their children and access resources for support.
The event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8, at the Main Street Middle School cafeteria, 441 Main St., in Soledad. All families are welcome.
Overnight Highway 1 closure planned in Big Sur
BIG SUR — Highway 1 in Big Sur will be fully closed overnight Thursday, Oct. 8, for drainage structure repairs.
The closure will take place from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. at Post Mile 44.3, just north of Nepenthe. Crews will repair a drainage structure that crosses beneath both lanes of the highway.
Message signs will alert travelers ahead of the closure. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and allow extra time for travel.
The closure is expected to end by the morning of Friday, Oct. 9.
McDonald’s Golden Grant applications deadline nears
CENTRAL COAST — McDonald’s franchisees across the Bay Area and Central Coast are accepting applications for the annual Golden Grants program, which provides funding to K-12 schools, youth programs and nonprofits serving local children.
The program offers grants of $2,500 and $10,000 to support educational initiatives, youth sports, mentorship, recreation and youth development programs.
Since 2023, McDonald’s has awarded $180,000 to 64 organizations across its service area, which stretches from Eureka to Santa Barbara. During the 2025 grant cycle, the program distributed $55,000 to 16 organizations.
Applications are open through Oct. 9, with grant recipients scheduled to be announced in November.
Local organizations interested in applying can find eligibility guidelines, application information and past recipient stories at mcdgoldengrants.com.
Econ Development Committee seeks construction representative
MONTEREY COUNTY — The Monterey County Economic Development Committee is accepting applications for a member representing the construction sector. The deadline to apply is midnight Oct. 9.
The committee advises the Monterey County Board of Supervisors on economic development policies, programs and activities aimed at supporting a diversified economy, higher-paying jobs and an expanded revenue base for local government services.
Applicants must live in Monterey County, own a business in the county or work in the county. Members are appointed by the Board of Supervisors.
The committee meets every other month, with special meetings scheduled as needed.
For information about the committee and how to apply, visit the County of Monterey’s website.
