Good morning, Salinas.

The SPCA Monterey County Wildlife Rescue is caring for five baby screech owls after their tree was cut down and a new report shows Latino and Indigenous farmworkers in the valley face ongoing challenges.

Local entrepreneurs Davon Larson of Surf Skull and Jesús Ruvalcaba of Paper Tacos gained support from their Shark Tank pitch — Larson’s sales increased by five to ten times and Ruvalcaba’s business expanded to over 500 locations nationwide.

They continue to drive innovative business in Salinas today.

The 14th annual Watsonville Film Festival began Mar.

12 with over 50 films and events themed Art as Resistance, spanning Watsonville, Santa Cruz and Salinas. In Salinas, Maya Cinemas will show a 15-minute short by local filmmaker Ivan Ramirez on Mar. 19.

Farm workers in Monterey County are struggling with low wages and high living costs, a report by UC Santa Cruz and CBDIO shows (they earn around $23,000 while a family needs about $76,000) and some workers are wary of raids from stricter immigration enforcement.

Carr Lake Community Day School, one of three Salinas alternative education settings, was recognized today as a 2026 Model Community Day School by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond for offering flexible learning options and strong mental health supports — a move aimed at guiding districts planning community day schools.

Today, the Central Coast sees a pause in rising heat as a shortwave keeps temperatures 5+ degrees to 15+ degrees above normal despite sunny skies.

High pressure will build Sunday, with record heat expected later that may prompt residents to hydrate and seek shade.

SPCA Monterey County is caring for five baby western screech owls orphaned after a tree housing their nest was cut down in Prunedale.

The birds are fed four times a day + they will move outdoors and eventually be released back to the wild near where they were found.

County officials will soon hold a public meeting to consider new regulations on battery storage systems, offering residents essential details on the proposed changes (additional information will be provided during the session).

A new report revealed that Salinas Valley farmworkers are facing hazardous working conditions, and they have spoken out about their challenges.

Local advocates are urging better safety measures on the farms.

Monterey Bay FC will add former MLS midfielder Sebastian Lletget to its roster.

The club announced the signing today as it prepares for upcoming matches.

Officials released a ranking of top boys track and field teams that places Salinas fourth among leading contenders, with Hollister, Aptos, and Palma ahead + Gonzales' new all weather track noted in the list.

The ranking reflects strong local athletic efforts.

Salinas girls soccer team will compete for its first state title when they play in the CIF Division III finals on Saturday+ the game marks a historic milestone as the first state championship for a campus team.

Monterey Bay F.C. announced midfielder Sebastian Lletget, who will be available for selection this Saturday — the new player expressed pride in returning home and eagerness to help the club chase championships.

He is also engaged to singer Becky G.

Nb Ridaz Live at MI Hacienda

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Hacienda Mexican Grill — No refunds — Get ready to vibe with Nb Ridaz in Salinas, it's going to be a night to remember!

Jose Modesto Live Concert

9 p.m. — Hacienda Mexican Grill — Ticket required — Experience the passionate Latin music of Jose Modesto, an artist deeply rooted in his cultural heritage.