Salinas Valley News Briefs | June 19, 2026
Rodeo, Monterey Bay FC partner for ‘Boots on the Pitch’
SEASIDE — California Rodeo Salinas and Monterey Bay FC have partnered to present “Boots on the Pitch,” a rodeo-themed soccer event Saturday, June 20, at Cardinale Stadium in Seaside.
The event will coincide with Monterey Bay...
Black bear sighting prompts police response in Greenfield
GREENFIELD — A rare black bear sighting in Greenfield prompted a police response Wednesday night after residents reported seeing the animal near Pine Avenue.
Officers located what appeared to be a young black bear that had climbed a tree, according to the Greenfield Police Department.
“This...
Salinas Valley Health’s Diaper Drive helps ease burden for local families
SALINAS VALLEY — For the fifth consecutive year, Salinas Valley Health employees and community members came together during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month to support local families through the annual Diaper Drive in May.
This year's effort collected more than 3,100 diapers that will be...
Leitzinger appointed Monterey County Superior Court judge
MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County Superior Court announced that attorney Elizabeth Leitzinger has been appointed as its newest judge, filling the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Julie R. Culver.
Gov. Gavin Newsom made the appointment June 2.
“I am honored and humbled by the...
Soledad High celebrates 340 graduates at 2026 commencement
SOLEDAD — Graduation day at Soledad High School brought thousands of people to Gene Martin Stadium bright and early Saturday morning for the 26th Annual Commencement.
Seating and parking filled up fast with parents, extended families and friends attending to celebrate this year’s 340 graduates.
The...
Salinas Regional Sports Authority named 2026 Nonprofit of the Year
SALINAS VALLEY — Sen. John Laird has selected the Salinas Regional Sports Authority as the 2026 Nonprofit of the Year for Senate District 17, recognizing the organization’s longstanding work expanding access to youth sports, recreation and wellness opportunities across the Salinas Valley.
Founded in 2008...
Monterey County launches 911 Nurse Navigation program
MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County has launched a new 911 Nurse Navigation program designed to help residents with less critical medical needs access appropriate care while preserving emergency resources for life-threatening situations.
The program, announced June 1, is a partnership between the Monterey County Emergency...
Salinas Valley News Briefs | June 17, 2026
Hwy 1 traffic control planned south of Big Creek Bridge
MONTEREY COUNTY — Motorists traveling in both directions on Highway 1 south of Big Creek Bridge will encounter daytime one-way reversing traffic control beginning Wednesday, June 17, according to Caltrans.
Traffic control will be in effect...
Gonzales High sophomore wins state speech and debate tourney
GONZALES — Gonzales High School student Italia Hernandez recently placed first at the 12th Annual Migrant Education Program State Speech and Debate Tournament held in Monterey.
The May 1-2 event was organized by the California Department of Education and the Monterey County Office of Education’s...
Greenfield building moratorium takes effect after state approval
GREENFIELD — A temporary moratorium on certain new development projects in Greenfield is now in effect following final review and approval by the California Department of Housing and Community Development, city officials announced Friday.
The moratorium, originally adopted by the Greenfield City Council through Ordinance...
Local News
Gonzales Unified adds security screening at home games
GONZALES — Gonzales Unified School District will implement additional security measures at Gonzales High’s Dick Force Stadium beginning with its home football game Friday, Sept. 18, according to a Sept. 16 letter from...






















