Good morning, Salinas.

A new COVID-19 memorial in Salinas was dedicated today to honor local residents lost during the pandemic; officials say the reflective site will offer a space for memory and community support.

The Watsonville Film Festival (running until March 21) hosts film events in Watsonville, Santa Cruz, and Salinas to showcase work by both emerging and established filmmakers from Monterey Bay.

The Central Coast will face a prolonged heatwave beginning Sunday, with record-breaking temperatures and moderate heat risks expected from Monday through late next week; today and Saturday offer milder conditions as a marine layer keeps coastal temperatures cooler (inland highs reach the upper 70s), reminding residents to stay hydrated.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife banned conventional crab traps in Monterey Bay effective March 27 to protect whales, and fishers can use approved (pop-up) gear beginning in April while recreational crabbers use hoop gear in the closure areas.

Salinas residential well owners are urged to register as a new program from the Monterey County Water Resources Agency and the Salinas Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency launches to safeguard water supplies.

Officials say the complete well record will guide future conservation efforts + help protect local groundwater.

California has reported 29 measles cases this year, surpassing last year's total, though Monterey County has not confirmed any since 2014.

Dr. Martha Blum of Montage Health said low vaccination rates and travel are factors & locals should be aware of measles symptoms.

Former Monterey High shortstop Jack Santora is on Italy's coaching staff in the World Baseball Classic (Italy is 4-0) as the team competes internationally.

The girls swimming rankings list shows Stevenson first and Salinas seventh (with Monterey, Carmel, Aptos, Santa Catalina, Soquel, Hollister, Pacific Grove, and Soledad rounding out the top 10) while Pacific Collegiate, Harbor, Monte Vista, King City, and North Salinas are on the bubble.

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.