Good morning, Salinas.

Immigrant residents in Monterey County have been living in fear of potential ICE raids—this fear has led many to avoid public areas and cut spending, with local businesses reporting foot traffic decreases of up to 30 percent.

County officials and business leaders recently held a press conference to offer support and share guidance as national immigration policies continue to shift.

California Highway Patrol said Tuesday night around 9:57 p.m. on Reservation Road just south of Blanco that a 16-year-old driver from Seaside struck a pedestrian from Marina who died at the scene—investigation is ongoing.

Classic Car Week will begin Friday on the Monterey Peninsula and run through August 17—free events on downtown Monterey’s Alvarado Street will show historic race cars, live music, and giveaways from 5 to 8 p.m. Other events include races at WeatherTech Raceway and a hypercar showcase in Seaside—police will add more patrols to keep roads safe.

Phase two of the Toro Park traffic project began Wednesday and will cause early morning closures from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on weekdays until June—westbound traffic is blocked at Toro Elementary School’s driveway and nearby intersections, preventing access to Highway 68 from Torero Drive.

California lawmakers face a five-day deadline to set up a special election on November 4 per Gov. Gavin Newsom’s directive — designed to let voters decide on redistricting — as they return from summer recess on August 18.

They must draw new Congressional maps, propose a ballot initiative — which requires a two-thirds legislative vote — and change state law by August 22 to enable the vote amid partisan challenges from Texas.

Monterey County has launched three major housing projects using state grants aimed at closing river encampments and providing wraparound services—one in Watsonville creating a tiny home village with 32 modular units, another in King City moving motel residents into a permanent facility, and a third in Soledad relocating people with plans for a tiny home village in the coming month.

Monterey County is the first county in California to earn the certified Blue Zones designation—an effort to help people make healthy choices.

Its well-being score went up by 3.7 points since 2019 and the county had 7.4% fewer health risks per person in 2025, saving over $392 million in costs over six years.

Alex Palou dominated at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca by leading 84 of 95 laps—earning his third win at the track in four years.

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.

Flower Arranging Workshop

3-5 p.m. — Cesar Chavez Library — Free entry — Let your creativity bloom with stunning arrangements using organic flowers like dahlias.

Alicia Villareal Live Concert

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Fox Theater — Tickets available — Experience a captivating live performance by the renowned singer whose career spans decades.

Monterey County Fair

5 PM – 11 PM — Monterey County Fairgrounds — Admission varies — Celebrate the local culture with rides, food, and entertainment at this family-friendly fair.