Local News

SOLEDAD — A Monterey County jury has convicted Paul Chavez Ramirez, 61, an inmate serving a life sentence at Salinas Valley State Prison in Soledad, of possessing a weapon. In a bifurcated trial, the jury also found that Ramirez had previously been convicted of four...

JUDICIAL SEATS MONTEREY COUNTY — Jan. 26 marked the opening of the Declaration of Intention filing period for judicial seats in the June 2, 2026, Statewide Direct Primary Election. All interested candidates must file their Declaration of Intention no later than 5pm on Wednesday, Feb....

SALINAS — California Rodeo Salinas has unveiled its 2026 commemorative poster, a striking tribute to patriotism and tradition. This year’s design features Retired Sgt. First Class James “Guido” Davis parachuting the American flag into the arena from 5,000 feet above — a moment that has...

CALIFORNIA — California Highway Patrol (CHP) is highlighting new public safety laws passed during this year’s legislative session and signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. Unless otherwise noted, these laws took effect Jan. 1, 2026. “CHP is committed to keeping the public informed so they can...

GREENFIELD — A structure fire early Friday morning was contained to a garage thanks to a rapid, multi-agency response, according to the Greenfield Police Department. At about midnight on Jan. 23, Greenfield police and fire personnel responded to a reported structure fire in the 200...

MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County Free Libraries (MCFL) will take part in a statewide effort this month aimed at capturing how Californians use and value their local public libraries. The initiative, called “Every Story Counts,” seeks data, stories and photos illustrating how and why residents...

CENTRAL COAST — Local hospitals are urging community members to donate blood during a series of multi-day drives this month, as January typically brings a drop in donations due to winter weather, seasonal illnesses and fewer workplace and school drives. “The start of the year...

TRUTH ACT SALINAS — Monterey County Board of Supervisors will hold a TRUTH Act presentation on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 1:30 p.m. in its Chambers at 168 W. Alisal St. in Salinas. The presentation is required under California’s TRUTH Act when local law enforcement has...

SOLEDAD — City of Soledad has adopted a new citywide strategic plan designed to guide operations, budgeting and long-term decision-making over the next five years. The 2025-2030 Soledad Strategic Plan establishes the city’s vision, mission and priorities, serving as a roadmap for aligning city services,...

GREENFIELD — The 246th Battalion of the California Cadet Corps at Greenfield High School recognized cadet achievement and advancement during its Fall Awards Night last month. The ceremony honored cadets for their dedication, improvement and accomplishments throughout the fall semester. More than 300 parents, family...