Good morning, Salinas.

Relay for Life of the Salinas Valley kicked off its annual raffle yesterday at DGDG Salinas Honda — honoring late founder Sam Linder and raising funds for the American Cancer Society, with the main event scheduled for Sept.

19 at Salinas City Center.

California State Park Week continues through tomorrow and offers free or discounted entry passes for fourth graders, seniors, and families to explore 280 state parks statewide + visitors can apply for passes online or at local libraries while following safety tips for outdoor activities.

Mi Tierra Mercado y Taquería reopened yesterday after a four-year closure and renovations and now features a panadería, a walk-in cooler, and an outdoor patio at 1000 Broadway Ave — eager shoppers lined up early to enjoy the updated space.

It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

NOAA scientists reported a 63% chance of very strong El Niño conditions developing from November to January, which could bring wetter weather to California.

Locals are advised to follow updates for any significant changes.

New lab tests confirm that domoic acid likely caused one juvenile humpback whale’s death and contributed to another’s demise after both stranded in Monterey Bay earlier this month.

Officials in Pacific Grove and at Sunset State Beach collected samples as harmful algal blooms continue to affect local marine life.

California will adopt a law starting July 1 that limits date labels on packaged foods to 'Best if Used By' (for freshness) and 'Use By' (for safety) to help reduce food waste, following Gov. Newsom signing Assembly Bill 660 in Sept.

2024.

After a fire destroyed a 1 million-sqft Medline distribution center in Tracy Thursday, local hospitals are monitoring for supply issues while keeping patient care on track.

Salinas Valley Health, Natividad, and Montage Health are working with alternative vendors (and Medline) to secure key supplies.

Fans gathered at the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex today to watch Mexico secure a win against South Africa in their World Cup opener.

The tailgate series featured chants, giveaways, and kids’ soccer, and officials plan to bring back the free event mid-July for Mexico & USA matches.

Salinas High graduate Ryan Jensen will pitch this summer for the Chicago Cubs Triple A affiliate in Iowa, continuing his professional journey after a strong high school career.

Celebrate America Fireworks Extravaganza

3 PM — Salinas Sports Complex — Admission varies — Experience a family festival with food trucks, carnival rides, patriotic music, and the largest fireworks display in Monterey County.

Big Hat BBQ

5-10 p.m. — Monterey County Sheriff's Posse — $15 no meal — Enjoy BBQ and dancing with live music to kick off Big Week and the California Rodeo.

Miranda Lambert Concert

5-8 p.m. — Salinas Sports Complex — Cashless venue — Experience the powerful voice of country rock star Miranda Lambert live in concert.