2018 Leon Panetta Lecture Series moves to newly renovated Monterey Conference Center

Monterey >> The 21st season of the Leon Panetta Lecture Series is set to begin next week with a newly renovated venue and a lineup of experts ready to talk about the issues facing the country and the world. The theme of this year's series is “2018 - Is the American Dream Alive and Well?” and begins with the first event Feb. 26 at the Monterey Conference Center at 7 p.m. The discussion's topic - “The Economy and the American Dream, Impact of Debt, Growth, Immigration and Tax Cuts” - will feature two former senators, Kelly Ayotte, R-New Hampshire, and Chris Dodd, D-Connecticut, and will be moderated by former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta.

Q&A with Fort Ord Reuse Authority Executive Director Michael Houlemard

Marina >> Michael Houlemard has been at the helm of the organization tasked with transitioning Fort Ord from an Army base to civilian use for almost 20 years. The Fort Ord Reuse Authority, created by the state Legislature after the installation was closed in 1994, seeks to replace what the military once had with housing, businesses, open space and recreation.

California congressional leaders visit Soberanes and Chimney fires

California congressional leaders are taking a look at the damage from the Soberanes and the Chimney fires in Monterey County. Representatives Sam Farr and Loretta Sanchez said they'll be going to Congress next month in hopes of getting federal help for the state.