Good morning, Salinas.

Local shelters will help Southern California manage a stretch in capacity after animal control removed 300 cats and dogs from a rescue center in Antelope Valley; Peace of Mind Dog Rescue (in partnership with the SPCA Monterey County) said they are ready to transport adoptable pets to free up space.

Casa de Esperanza, a renovated motel in King City, is set to open to new residents in the coming weeks despite delay from water pipe repairs.

The facility includes 45 studio apartments with their own kitchen & bathroom and offers supportive services to help residents transition to stable living.

Fieldwork Brewing Co. announced it is leaving its Monterey taproom (560 Munras Avenue) after nearly a decade, with taps continuing to pour until Out of the Barrel Taproom takes over pending state approval.

Salinas Valley Health has added over 20 artworks from students at Cal State Monterey Bay, Hartnell College, and Rancho Cielo to brighten its hallways and soothe patients and staff.

The hospital hosted an artist reception Thursday (featuring staff tours) to honor local talent.

The 16th annual Whalefest Monterey will take place April 11-12 at Monterey State Historic Park and will feature live music and a 43-ft humpback whale replica called Dee that shows how whales live and eat; marine experts and local students will help visitors learn about ocean conservation.

County officials reported on March 17 that preliminary tests near the Vistra battery plant fire in Moss Landing showed no significant health risks (researchers found metal particles in the Elkhorn Slough).

Residents voiced frustration over the conflicting findings and called for more testing.

The Pajaro Regional Flood Prevention Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers started construction this week at Corralitos Creek in Watsonville to install new levees and a flood wall to protect neighborhoods affected by four 2023 floods; Phase 1 is expected to finish by late Fall.

Local legal advocate Liza Horvath explains that families may need to seek a conservatorship or contact Adult Protective Services when an older loved one refuses needed medical care, as courts require a mental evaluation before granting powers.

These steps are challenging and can harm family bonds + caution is urged.

In February, Monterey County median home listings reached $1,251,750, a 3.2% increase from January’s $1,212,500 based on Realtor.com data.

Homes averaged 1,803-sqft at $707 per sqft, with 220 new listings and a median market time of 60 days.

James Starkus is powering CSUMB’s baseball season by hitting .465 with eight homers in the first 22 games this spring; new players Jason Del Villar and Connor Smith are also making key contributions.

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.