Good morning, Salinas.

The Family Service Agency of the Central Coast held a mental health resource fair at Hartnell College on Wednesday—bringing together local groups to share suicide prevention information and support for all ages.

Community Human Services and other experts urged attendees to connect with available resources to help anyone facing mental health challenges.

Founded in 1972, the Monterey Institute for Research in Astronomy built a telescope on Chews Ridge—an area with dark skies and stable air—to study stars and conduct groundbreaking research.

It also holds stargazing events that let the community learn more about astronomy.

Central Coast experts warn that S.B.

131 lets projects skip environmental review—putting endangered species and local habitats at risk. Lawmakers will consider changes next week to require checks that protect wildlife.

Salinas City Council postponed its final decision on rent stabilization after receiving a petition from voters and will decide on September 23—voters, renters, and property owners shared strong views at the meeting.

Council members are weighing whether to reinstate the ordinance for one year or put the issue before voters in November.

On Aug. 28, the MCSIG board voted to raise 2026 health insurance premiums by 15% for agencies with at least 80% employee enrollment and by 20% for those below that threshold—amid concerns over a continuing deficit and withdrawal requests.

The board chose the increase after debate over a 17.4% option—officials worried that higher rates might prompt more members to leave.

Salinas residents face tripled sewer rates this year, so the city has introduced a relief program for low-income families — the program will provide a one-time credit equal to 15 percent of a yearly sewer bill for those enrolled in PG&E's CARE program.

Mayor Dennis Donohue said the rate hike is due to a missing escalator from 2012 and promised more details when the program is ready — officials expect to inform the community shortly.

Gov. Gavin Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas announced Wednesday legislation to lower electric bills, stabilize gas supply and reduce pollution.

The laws boost the state’s Climate Credit on utility bills, extend cap-and-trade and require utilities to submit a wildfire mitigation plan every 4 years—measures aimed at supporting California’s shift to a clean economy.

The latest Top 10 volleyball rankings name Harbor as number one with 27 wins, Salinas as number three after winning the Half Moon Bay Tournament with a new coach, and Soquel as a threat after beating reigning champions.

Scotts Valley, Carmel, and other teams have shown strong play this season — and fans look forward to more matches.

At Natividad Park on September 10, high school runners competed in the Salinas City Meet cross country championships & the boys team from Salinas finished second behind Alisal while individual times ranged from 15:41 to 17:20 and the girls team placed first with Alisal, second with Alvarez, and third with Rancho San Juan.

La Arrolladora Banda El Limon Live

2-3:30 p.m. — Salinas Sports Complex — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant performance of La Arrolladora Banda El Limon in concert.

GRIDLIFE Laguna Festival

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca — Check website for pricing — Experience the thrilling finale of motorsports with races, drifting, music, and food at this vibrant festival.

Steinbeck Center’s Annual Street Fair

12:00 AM — 100 Block of Main St, Salinas, CA — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly day with live music, vintage cars, and fun activities at this community street fair.

California International Airshow Salinas 2025

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. — California International Airshow, Salinas — $15.00 to $625.00 — Experience thrilling aerial performances and family-friendly exhibits at California's premier airshow event.