Good morning, Salinas.

A new COVID-19 memorial is under construction at the Monterey County Government Center in Salinas—featuring five colored glass panels that represent the county’s five districts and honor 940 residents lost during the pandemic.

The memorial, funded by donations over the past three years and managed by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, will serve as a lasting tribute for families and caregivers.

The same family that runs Rosine's Restaurant in Monterey will open a new cafe-style spot in Sand City planned for August but may delay until September or later.

The new location will occupy the former Starbucks across from Target — it will focus on to-go orders while details on alcohol service and the menu remain unclear.

Andrew Alvarado, 34, a member of the —Murder Squad— in Salinas, pleaded guilty in April to racketeering conspiracy and conspiracy to murder in aid of racketeering and was sentenced today to 38 years in federal prison, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

A Monterey County workshop held by a local nonprofit showed how residents can protect their homes during the dry season at a new home on Highway 68.

Robert Dotson explained that using mineral based stucco, clay tile roofs and added sprinklers + water features can help reduce wildfire risk.

Monterey County Jail is running on backup generators after PG&E shut off power — a safety issue was found during a planned outage Tuesday morning.

The facility remains closed to the public and is not accepting new inmates while all jail visits are cancelled until further notice.

The Solidarity Network confirmed there is no ICE activity at Monterey County cannabis farms.

It said the San Juan Road farm is run by the state — and a Greenfield farm saw workers leave from ICE fears even though no federal agents were present.

Monterey Peninsula College athlete Laura White broke the school’s hammer throw record at 119 feet 1 inch and will use her track and field scholarship to compete at Cal Poly Humboldt next spring.

She also improved in shot put and discus events — she is expected to compete in the javelin.

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.

Raza Costena Concert

8 PM – 12 AM — Los Arcos De Alisal Restaurant — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night filled with the captivating sounds of Raza Costena performing their hit Corrido de Rey Hernandez.

Pat Travers Band Concert

8:30 PM - 2:30 AM — Fox Theater — Tickets available — Experience an electrifying night featuring the legendary Pat Travers Band and opening act Bad Machine.