Good morning, Salinas.

The North Gate Neighborhood Park opened today with a ribbon cutting that unveiled a universal playground built for all children.

Salinas City Councilmember Andrew Sandoval said the park is a $1 million investment in District 5 + many residents expressed joy seeing a safe space for families and kids to play.

Salinas is gearing up for the 115th California Rodeo with over 100 volunteers and 25 full-time staff working to prepare for the multi-day event—experts say it will draw thousands of visitors as the bull riding competition kicks off Wednesday and rodeo events run from Thursday through Sunday.

Last Sunday, the Kiddie Kaper Parade marked a festive start to local celebrations as Salinas youth enjoyed a 'Once Upon a Rodeo' theme led by Grand Marshal Jaizel Mendoza while crowds lined downtown to cheer floats, bikes, trotting ponies and performances by dance groups, drill teams, ballet folklorico and the North Salinas High School Vikings marching band—kicking off Big Week ahead of California Rodeo Salinas on Wednesday at the Salinas Sports Complex.

PG&E announced it is committing $50 million to help low-to moderate-income customers pay past-due energy bills by matching payments up to $1,000 in its new Match My Payment Program—designed to prevent disconnections.

The program, which works with the existing Community Help plan, will be available until December 31.

A lawsuit filed by Pajaro Valley Federation of Teachers and Californians for Pesticide Reform claims that state and Monterey County regulators illegally approved six pesticide permits near Ohlone Elementary, Hall District Elementary, and Pajaro Middle School, putting students at risk—officials are accused of ignoring safer alternatives and long-term health hazards. A decision on the case is expected soon.

More than 200 Monterey County kids trained with current and former soccer pros at the Chevron Soccer Academy in Salinas on July 14, taking turns in drills for ball skills, agility and fitness.

Scouts from the San Jose Earthquakes and Atlas Fútbol Club watched+ organizers said the academy will offer future training and competition opportunities for local youth.

California Rodeo Salinas

6 PM - 11 PM — Salinas Sports Complex — Cost info not available — Experience California's largest rodeo with over a century of tradition and excitement.

IndyCar Grand Prix of Monterey - Saturday

9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. — WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca — Tickets available — Experience thrilling IndyCar action at the iconic Laguna Seca track.

Watsonville Strawberry Festival Kickoff

Evening — Watsonville City Plaza — Cost details not provided — Experience the excitement with live entertainment and carnival rides as the festival begins.

Annual Watsonville Strawberry Festival

11 AM – 8 PM — Watsonville City Plaza — Fun Run Registration Required — Experience carnival attractions and delicious strawberry treats at a family-friendly event.