Good morning, Salinas.

Communities along the Coast will honor Memorial Day with a series of events throughout the weekend.

Felton hosts a Covered Bridge Festival today, and ceremonies, concerts in Salinas and Monterey, and a barbecue in Hollister are set for Monday.

Palomas Cafecito opened a storefront today in Salinas selling homegrown, TikTok-inspired lattes & attracting strong local support.

Paper Tacos, a greeting card company celebrating Mexican culture, was named small business of the year by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas on May 22 in Salinas.

The award recognizes the company’s growth and commitment to cultural representation.

The California Roots Music and Art Festival has returned in Monterey this weekend, drawing thousands and boosting local tourism; organizers said past events brought up to $5 million and nearly 10,000 people attended on Friday.

National data shows that sirloin prices rose $2 per pound to $14.73 and ground beef increased $1 to a record $6.90 last April amid a 75-year low cattle herd, while whole chicken and produce saw minor price drops; Salinas grillers preparing for Memorial Day may face higher barbecue costs.

Gas prices may hit a four-year high this summer as the national average could reach $4.80 while local California averages already exceed $6, which might affect Memorial Day travel.

AAA projects higher pump prices and increased congestion over the holiday weekend.

Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) is updating bus routes today, May 23, 2026, to match seasonal travel.

Changes include a new stop in Pacific Grove, route adjustments on Lines 1, 7, 32, service cancellations on Lines 25, 40, 47 and the start of Monterey Trolley service through Labor Day.

Gov. Newsom’s office advised Californians to avoid Chevron gas stations over Memorial Day weekend after an analysis found Chevron prices are 60 to 80 cents more per gallon than unbranded fuel; drivers in Salinas may wish to consider cheaper options when refueling.

Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula received the 2026 Outstanding Patient Experience Award from Healthgrades on May 18 for high patient survey scores; it also earned a five-star rating from Becker's Hospital Review and plans to continue safety improvements.

Elizabeth Iandoli, a Carmel High graduate, won a national championship in reigning and ranch riding in Amarillo, Texas as part of West Texas A&M’s team, which repeated its title.

She placed sixth in her division while studying Equine Industry and Business Administration.

Los Originales de San Juan and CLAVE AR

9 p.m. — Hacienda Mexican Grill — Buy your ticket on Ticketón — Experience a vibrant live performance from CLAVE AR, a Latin music band that fuses traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds.