Good morning, Salinas.

Salinas residents worry about bike + pedestrian safety as National Bike Safety Month sharpens focus on problems along local streets.

City leaders and the Transportation Agency for Monterey County plan to improve bike lanes and reduce accidents by 2026 after past incidents led to injuries and fatalities.

SPCA Monterey County will launch a full slate of summer programs to support rescued animals and engage local residents.

The initiative aims to offer new services and community events (details coming soon) to help animals in need.

Joby Aviation CEO JoeBen Bevirt said the company flew two air taxis over Marina on May 13 to show its leadership in aircraft design and that it will open a new manufacturing facility there soon — a move that highlights American innovation.

California Highway Patrol arrested a 31-year-old suspect (charged with attempted murder, human trafficking, and assault with a firearm) in Monterey County after an investigation linked him to crimes on Highway 101 in February; he is held without bail and will appear in court on May 22.

More than one million California drivers are receiving $21.65 each from a gas price-gouging settlement that resolved a 2020 lawsuit against Vitol and SK Energy Americas—payments are coming by check, direct deposit, or Venmo as noted by the attorney general’s office.

Ohana will host a Youth Substance Use Symposium where local students will present their projects from campus drug prevention clubs and community leaders and public health experts will demonstrate how to use naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses.

The event will offer Salinas residents practical guidance on reducing drug risks.

California Roots Pre-Party Wine Mixer

6-9 p.m. — Rustique Wines — $20 for general admission, $15 for wine club members — Kick off the California Roots Festival with local wines, music from Rise Up, and delicious food.

Monster Truck Throwdown

2:00-3:30 p.m. — Salinas Sports Complex — Check local listings for pricing — Experience an afternoon of motorized mayhem with thrilling monster truck action.

ACP Compost Workshop & Demo Day

8 AM – 5 PM — National Steinbeck Center — Free entry — Explore innovative strategies in composting and organics recycling at this expert-led workshop.