Monterey Bay Today

In this week's roundup of local news: the Timber Fire grows in Big Sur, leaders address immigration enforcement concerns, Monterey Car Week makes charitable donations, and more.

Big Sur's Timber Fire has exceeded 4,500 acres, but some people have stayed. And, a strong El Niño will continue warming Central Coast waters and likely bring marine visitors.

Gusty winds have hampered firefighting in Big Sur, where the Timber Fire has burned 4,245 acres. And, Car Week is more than a showcase for rare cars—various events offer fundraising opportunities.

The Timber Fire in Big Sur has burned about 3,775 acres as of midday Wednesday and cut off access to a condor sanctuary. And, Central coast leaders are reaffirming support for immigrants in the face of changing federal policies.

The Timber Fire in Big Sur has exceeded 2,000 acres, with four zones now evacuated. And, Central Coast leaders continue to oppose offshore oil drilling.

The county has issued evacuation orders for parts of the Big Sur area due to the Timber Fire. And, class is back in session for Monterey County kids. Despite immigration concerns, headcounts are high.

In this week's roundup of local news: local farms hit by lower lettuce demand, Salinas City Council extends a moratorium on new tobacco shops, Murray Street bridge work reaches midpoint, nurses protest layoffs, a local tribe regains stewardship of 84 acres, and more.

Produce growers in the region face reduced demand as people try to avoid cyclosporiasis, and Santa Cruz County releases its annual point-in-time count.

In Santa Cruz, the three-year Murray Street Bridge seismic retrofit has reached its mid-point. And, the Trump administration wants to streamline Head Start regulations for class sizes, teachers’ qualifications and more.

The Salinas City Council has voted unanimously to extend a moratorium on issuing new tobacco retailer licenses. And, 5,000 California nurses have signed a petition against layoffs.