NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
SALINAS VALLEY — National Night Out will take place Tuesday, Aug. 5, with free celebrations in all four South Monterey County cities. King City will kick off the annual community-policing event at 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the King City Fire Department, 422 Bassett St. Soledad will host its event from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Soledad Community Center, 560 Walker Drive. Greenfield’s celebration will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. at Greenfield Village at the Gazebo. Lastly, Gonzales has set its event for 6 to 8 p.m. at the Gonzales Police Department, 109 Fourth St. Each gathering will offer free food, games, music, safety education and more, as families come together with local police departments to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
AIR QUALITY PREP
CENTRAL COAST — As California wildfire season begins, residents are urged to prepare for potential air quality hazards caused by wildfire smoke. The Monterey Bay Air Resources District (MBARD) monitors air quality across Monterey, San Benito and Santa Cruz counties and issues advisories when smoke impacts air safety. Wildfire smoke contains harmful fine particles that pose health risks, especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory or heart conditions. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via MBARD’s real-time air quality updates at mbard.org. Even if not under a formal advisory, residents should avoid outdoor activities if they smell smoke or see ash. For health information, visit EPA’s website at epa.gov/wildfire-smoke-course/health-effects-attributed-wildfire-smoke.
COUNTY FAIR
MONTEREY — Monterey County Fair and Event Center has announced the theme for its 2025 Fair, “Surfin’ Safari,” scheduled to run Aug. 28 to Sept. 1. Inspired by the region’s vibrant surf culture and marine life, the theme combines coastal adventure with family fun, featuring custom artwork by renowned coastal artist Scott Westmoreland. Westmoreland, known for his surf-inspired art and collaborations with major entertainment companies like Disney and MCA Universal, brings a dynamic visual element to the event’s promotional campaign. Tickets are now available for presale, with prices set to remain in effect through Aug. 27. The Fair continues its tradition of celebrating agriculture, entertainment and community, with more details on entertainment, exhibits and events to be announced soon. Presented by Montage Health, the Monterey County Fair promises a memorable experience rooted in the region’s coastal spirit. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit montereycountyfair.com.
BONUS BRIEF: AIRSHOW HIGHLIGHTS
SALINAS — The 44th annual California International Airshow will take place October 4-5 in Salinas, featuring impressive displays from the US Navy Blue Angels, USAF F-16 Viper demonstration and top civilian performers. Local favorite Vicky Benzing will showcase her P-51 “Plum Crazy” and vintage Boeing Stearman, while aerobatic pilots Ed Hamill and Bob Freeman will thrill crowds with their high-energy performances. A special highlight this year is the celebration of hometown hero Everett Alvarez Jr., a Salinas native and distinguished Navy aviator. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Alvarez on Saturday as the event dedicates “Everett Alvarez Jr. Day at the Airshow.” A decorated veteran, Alvarez was the first American shot down over Vietnam and spent over eight years as a prisoner of war. He has received numerous military honors, including the Silver Star, Bronze Stars, Purple Hearts and the Congressional Gold Medal. Alvarez, who retired as a Navy Commander, is also a lawyer, author and entrepreneur. Salinas named a high school after him in 1994, and he is the namesake of the USS Everett Alvarez Jr. (FFG 68). For more information about the California International Airshow, visit salinasairshow.com.
