Good morning, Salinas.

Federal authorities updated a report on an alleged sea lion decapitation at Point Pinos Beach on July 27—officials said a man was seen using a hunting knife but confirmed that no marine mammal parts were removed.

Taylor Swift’s new album 'The Life of a Showgirl' is playing in local theaters from October 3 through October 5—tickets are available now at Cinemark in Salinas and other Monterey County venues, and fans can watch the world premiere of the 'The Fate of Ophelia' music video during the event. This release party marks a special local event for Swifties in the region.

Assemblymember Dawn Addis returned from Climate Week NYC where she shared California’s new bills on local decision-making for oil production, requiring polluters to pay for disaster recovery, and funding wildfire prevention—efforts aimed at protecting local communities and building climate progress. Her work marks a strong government push to support safe and effective policies.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill yesterday that gives more than 800,000 ride-hailing drivers the right to unionize and bargain for better wages and benefits—allowing them to remain independent contractors while also lowering the companies’ insurance requirements for accidents.

California Election Day ballots may be postmarked late if dropped off at mailboxes more than 50 miles from USPS hubs, state officials said.

Voters are urged to use in-person voting, vote centers or ask for a postmark at post offices—steps needed to ensure ballots get a postmark by Nov. 4 and are counted.

Paul Sciuto of M1W introduced local policymakers and elected officials at the Pure Water Monterey expansion facility in Marina on October 3—joined by Remleh Scherzinger of Marina Coast Water District and Kevin Tilden of California American Water to mark the project expansion.

Former state track and triple jump qualifier Emmerson Cortez-Menjivar from Salinas is making an impact on the University of Idaho football team by catching at least two passes in each of its first five games—he ranks second on the team with 17 catches for 246 yards and a season best 47-yard reception.

Coach Steve Zenk tied the school record with his 67th win in a 45-0 shutout against Hollister at The Pit last Friday—he will try to break the record next Friday when Salinas hosts Monterey.

Luis Angel The Skinny in Salinas

8 p.m. — Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electric atmosphere as Luis Angel The Skinny takes the stage for an unforgettable night of regional music.