SOLEDAD — Monterey County welcomed its first baby of the new year just seconds after midnight, as a family from Soledad celebrated a milestone moment at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP).
Noah Mora Medina was born at 12:00:09 a.m. on New Year’s Day at Montage Health’s CHOMP, arriving only nine seconds into 2026. He weighed 7.7 pounds and measured 20.5 inches long.
Noah was born to Soledad residents Elizabeth Medina and Sergio Mora. Both mother and baby were reported to be doing well following the delivery.
“This is an incredibly joyful way to begin the new year for our community and our staff,” said Monica Sciuto, a spokesperson for Montage Health. “Welcoming the first baby born in Monterey County is always special, and we’re honored to support Elizabeth, Sergio and baby Noah during such a meaningful moment.”
The family shared that they “couldn’t be happier” and described baby Noah as “perfect.”
Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, located in Monterey, provides comprehensive, family-centered maternity care and serves families throughout Monterey County.
