Monterey County Fair aims to stimulate literacy, innovation and imagination

In addition to fried food and new amusement rides the Monterey County Fair aims to stimulate literacy, innovation and imagination.

The 74th installment gets under way Wednesday and runs through Monday at the Monterey County Fairgrounds...

A new exhibit at this year's fair is the Hall of Innovation. [Monterey County Fair CEO Kelly] Violini said the showcase intends to inspire people to be creative and examine green ways of living. There will be displays for green vehicles and solar technology as well as appearances by American astronauts from the Naval Postgraduate School.

"It's important to stimulate creative and innovation in our children and in adults," said Wendy Brickman, Fair spokeswoman.