In a news release, the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals announced it joined forces with IHOP to kick off the organization’s 30th Anniversary in 2013 with a goal of raising $3 million on National Pancake Day.

Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital is a Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals facility and will benefit from all proceeds raised locally. 

The news release said National Pancake Day will be held on Tuesday, February 5, 2013 from 7 a.m.

After hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations and hours of labor, the Salinas community is pushing out the gang violence and crime that usually overshadows a local park.

Closter Park is one of the most utilized parks in Salinas. On Saturday, June 30, the Rotary Clubs of Salinas are hosting a “Gran Fiesta” from 1:00pm to 5:00pm to mark the completion of the construction of “La Plaza Rotario" at Closter Park.

There's a Mexican-style kiosko and fountain as well as rehabilitation of the park’s Boxing and Tutoring Centers.

The day’s activities include live entertainment such as mariachi, banda, ballet folklorico, charros, pony rides, bounce houses, kids prizes, and refreshments by St. Mary’s Church. Univision News Anchor Erandi Garcia will emcee the dedication and blessing ceremonies beginning at 2:30pm featuring Rotary leaders, Salinas Mayor Donohue, the Closter family and St.