Good morning, Salinas.

Becky G visited Salinas City Hall on Wednesday and received the official Salad Bowl honor from Mayor Dennis Donohue — an event arranged through Monterey Bay FC that also featured her partner, Sebastian Lletget, and may lead to more opportunities in the community.

Salinas City Center has launched lettuce cash, a digital gift card available at over a dozen downtown restaurants and stores.

Purchases made on the website now through August 1 receive a bonus gift card (Greg Hamer, district coordinator, explained).

In San Benito County, Maddi Borland was crowned Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2026 after two days of competition in Salinas — she earned a $3,000 scholarship and will represent the rodeo at events statewide.

Scientists warn that warming Pacific waters and a strengthening El Niño could disrupt marine food webs that local fisheries rely on (raising risks for fish and coastal wildlife).

Experts note that if high temperatures continue through summer, marine life may face ongoing stress.

Viewers in California will see the Milky Way this Fourth of July weekend; the best viewing is expected on July 14 during the new moon when dark skies away from city lights reveal the galaxy's center.

The DEA announced it has begun temporarily scheduling synthetic 7-OH as a Schedule I controlled substance after California warnings and overdose concerns.

Salinas retailers and health officials may soon face changes if federal regulations tighten on concentrated products + check updates.

Kelsey Pfendler, a 32-year-old solo rower from Monterey, is nearing the finish of her 2,400-mile journey to Hawaii and will complete it on July 4 at around 2:03 p.m. (she aims to break the overall record and raise funds for the Whale Foundation).

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.

California Rodeo Salinas

Daytime and evening events — Salinas Sports Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of professional rodeo with over 110 years of tradition in sunny California.