Good morning, Salinas.

Monterey High senior Carlos Velasco will attend Princeton University this fall after earning a full four-year QuestBridge scholarship that connects low-income students to top universities.

Raised in foster care, he plans to major in psychology and credits his little sister (Itsy) as his main motivation.

SPCA Monterey County urges residents to trim trees in winter to protect hummingbird and other nestlings from being knocked out of nests by spring trimming.

The nonprofit cares for over 2,500 animals a year + treats injured baby birds; call 831-264-5427 for guidance if you spot a ground nest.

A new count by the Xerces Society found 12,260 monarchs at 250 coastal sites during fall 2025 and early winter; experts warn these butterflies could vanish within 50 years unless residents act (for example, by planting milkweed).

Barry Dolowich, a CPA from Monterey, explains that if a side business loses money in three out of five years, the IRS may treat it as a hobby and limit deductions – proper business records and a profit-focused approach can help prove the business is legitimate.

New federal SNAP rules went into effect on Feb.

1, making it harder for able-bodied adults and households in California to receive benefits without meeting strict work or training requirements. The changes remove some exemptions and shift additional costs to states.

On Wednesday, CHP and emergency teams airlifted a 79-year-old woman from a ranch on Lockwood-Jolon Road for emergency surgery at French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo after a 911 call; her husband credited responders (including a CHP flight officer) with swift teamwork.

A Salinas High flag football player will attend her first Super Bowl as part of the NFL Latino Youth Honors program — nominated by the 49ers for field and classroom achievements — and will take her extra ticket with her dad while predicting the Seahawks win.

James Garner's Tribute to Johnny Cash

7-11 p.m. — Fox Theater — Event pricing not listed — Experience the authentic live sound of Johnny Cash’s legendary music performed by James Garner and his talented band.

Carlos Daniels Tribute to Juan Gabriel

8 PM – 12 AM — Fox Theater — Tickets from $132 — Experience a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Juan Gabriel by Carlos Daniels.

Allison Wheeler - Winterspring featuring Alex Sjobeck

7-9 p.m. — Wendi Kirby Music LLC — Tickets available — Experience an intimate evening of jazz with vibrant performances from emerging talents.