Good morning, Salinas.

Monterey Car Week begins today in Monterey County, and local businesses like Old Fisherman's Grotto are preparing for 100,000+ visitors while some vendors plan to leave due to tight space+residents worry about extra traffic and police keeping watch for reckless driving.

Eighteen-year-old Luis Gonzalez, a Salinas High School graduate, won two titles at the 2025 California State Fair after waking from a coma caused by a car crash in 2023.

He plans to study animal science at Modesto Junior College this fall — his win proves that hard work can overcome serious challenges.

Salinas Police Department warned residents that a fake company Lightning Shared Scooter Company tricked people by promising monthly payments for electric scooter investments, causing 45 locals to lose $250,000 with some losing up to $50,000 (victim Maria Moreno said the scammers now use a new name but are still running the scam) and urged anyone who may have lost money to report it immediately.

Monterey police arrested 35-year-old registered sex offender Jordan Pollacci on Tuesday at a residence near Cannery Row for alleged sexual battery after reports said he followed a young woman inside a business and pressed against her before fleeing after giving a false name — he is now booked with bail set at $500,000.

The Toro Park Traffic Project began its second phase this week with an early morning partial road closure—blocking westbound Portola Drive near Toro Elementary School from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. on weekdays to ease school drop-offs, and the measure will continue until June 2026.

Local health providers warn that upcoming Medi-Cal cuts under the new federal spending law will strain funding for low-income patients and hospitals in our area.

Providers expect that beginning next year, reduced funding will force clinics and hospitals to cut back services—adding challenges for care access.

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.