Local News

SALINAS VALLEY — Salinas Valley Fair is now accepting applications for the 2026 Miss Salinas Valley Fair Competition, offering young women the chance to serve as ambassadors for one of the region’s most recognized events. Eligible contestants must be ages 16 to 20 and reside...

SALINAS VALLEY — After two years of lower levels of impatiens necrotic spot virus in the Salinas Valley, researchers have recorded a higher number of cases during the 2025 season, though they say INSV did not reach the widespread levels seen in 2022, when...

SALINAS — Hartnell College’s K-12 STEAM Program hosted three NASA Integrated Engineering Challenges last month as part of the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program, one of only 10 institutions selected nationwide. The program concluded Jan. 16 at Hartnell’s STEM Building with a rover...

GONZALES — A 66-year-old Gonzales man was arrested on suspicion of murder Friday night after calling 911 to report that his wife was bleeding, according to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office. Emergency dispatchers received the call at about 9:27 p.m. on Feb. 13. Deputies responded...

MONTEREY COUNTY — Residents can support animal welfare and learn about responsible pet care through several February events organized by the SPCA Monterey County. A Pawesome Valentine’s Day Camp is set for Saturday, Feb. 14, where children will learn about pets, responsible ownership and ways...

GREENFIELD — A former California state correctional lieutenant has been arrested on charges of conspiring to smuggle contraband into state prison in exchange for approximately $100,000 in payments from an inmate. Matthew Madsen, 39, of Greenfield, made his initial appearance in federal district court in...

SALINAS VALLEY — Salinas Regional Soccer Complex announced Jan. 28 a five-year, $250,000 partnership with Costa Family Restaurants in support of the facility’s continued growth and expansion. Complex officials said the investment represents a major commitment to the future of the site, which currently draws...

GREENFIELD — Sun Street Centers has released new details about a $500,000 grant to expand its Road to Success program in partnership with the City of Greenfield, including plans to reach younger students and offer more hands-on activities. The funding, previously accepted by the Greenfield...

The Soledad Lions hosted a tri-tip barbecue takeout fundraiser Sunday at the Soledad Lions Hall ahead of the Super Bowl. Members of the Soledad Lioness Club assisted at the event and sold football-themed baked goods.

MONTEREY COUNTY — South Monterey County students and families are building reading skills and enjoying literacy through a countywide initiative launched this past December by the Read to Me Project. The program, called Literacy for All, is designed to expand early literacy access, encourage family...