Good morning, Salinas.

East of Eden dispensary in Salinas launched its Eat Better Together grocery program to give 300 local families essential food items with valid EBT cards.

The program will run every Friday for three weeks—its idea came during the government shutdown when federal food aid benefits lapsed.

Last Friday, hundreds gathered at The Inn at Spanish Bay to mark National Philanthropy Day and honor local groups and individuals (including Salinas City councilwoman Margaret D’Arrigo) for their generous support.

A Bank of America study and local leaders noted that giving is now focused on basic needs like housing, food, and health, showing rising community care.

Several California grocery stores have announced their Thanksgiving hours to help shoppers plan last-minute trips.

Target, Walmart, Costco, Sam's Club, and Trader Joe's will be closed while Stater Bros, Vons, Albertsons, Ralph's, Save Mart, FoodMaxx, Lucky, Whole Foods Market, and Sprouts will be open with shorter hours.

Fans camped out Sunday night outside the Northridge Mall parking lot in Salinas for Raising Cane’s debut today—staff said the new restaurant will have a DJ at 6:30 a.m. and offer giveaways such as free meals for 20 early customers, hats for the first 100 people, and meal cards with a Box Combo purchase.

Director Miguel Garcia Mendoza returned home to film the 1970s-set thriller 'The Trees Whisper at Night' in Greenfield, Salinas, and King City with local talent such as Marina native Josh Hubble and co-lead Blanca Isabella.

The film will debut next spring and honors hometown roots with scenes shot in familiar settings — a reminder of the community that shaped him.

Monterey Peninsula water use stays nearly the same as in 1958 even though the local population has grown by 40% and there are nearly 9 million annual visitors, as conservation programs, modern technology, consumer behavior and tiered pricing lower consumption—said Dave Stoldt, general manager of the water district.

A powerful atmospheric river has killed 6 people in California, with a 7-year-old swept away at a Big Sur beach while heavy rains, thunderstorms and snow continue to affect the state.

Evacuation orders are in effect for wildfire-impacted areas — residents are urged to follow weather updates and safety guidelines.

Life In The Fast Lane - A Tribute To The Eagles

7:30-9 p.m. — Fox Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the classic rock hits of the Eagles performed by a talented tribute band.