KRKC COUNTRY

  July 22, 2025, - Salinas, CA -- Know any local jobseekers still applying for work online but not getting the results they want?  Why not try something more traditional? “Sometimes another approach makes all the difference,” said Monterey County Works, Executive Director, Christopher Donnelly. “There’s a lot to be said for meeting employers in person. You’re more memorable, recruiters get to meet you face to face and can better determine your interest and enthusiasm. Jobseekers interested in trying this approach are encouraged to register and attend Monterey County Works August events below:     Wednesday, August 6, Transportation Industry Specialized Recruitment @ Salinas Career Center, 344 Salinas Street, Salinas, Suite #203, 1:30pm-4pm       Wednesday, August 13, City of Greenfield, Multiple Employer Job Fair @ 599 El Camino Real, Greenfield, 4pm-7pm       Wednesday, August 20, Agricultural Industry Specialized Recruitment @ Salinas ...

  MONTEREY, California – Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on July 22 that 4 owners of local smoke shops and markets throughout Monterey County have paid civil penalties for unlawfully selling flavored tobacco products, among other violations of law. The sale of flavored tobacco products is prohibited in California. Tobacco contains nicotine which is highly addictive and harmful to adolescent brain development. Flavored vapes are the most widely used tobacco product among youth, and many tobacco users report that it is easy to purchase flavored tobacco products. These products also tend to be marketed towards youth, with flavorings such as “OMG Blow Pop,” “White Gummy Ice,” “Lemon Heasd” [sic], and “Peach Perfect Slush.” Feras Hanna, the owner of King City Smoke, located at 560 Canal Street, Suite B, in King City, and Soledad Smoke Shop, located at 3052 H Dela Rosa Street, in Soledad, were ordered to pay a total of $30,435 in civil penalties and fees f...

SACRAMENTO— On Monday, July 21 the Legislature filed an amicus brief in the state’s lawsuit against President Trump, asking the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to take up its appeal en banc to stop Trump’s unlawful and unwarranted deployment of the National Guard and protect California’s families, workers, and businesses.   The State of California filed its lawsuit on June 9, naming President Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the Department of Defense, arguing that the federal takeover of a CalGuard unit violates the U.S. Constitution and oversteps the administration’s Title X authority. Trump mobilized the National Guard without the consent of Governor Gavin Newsom, as federal law requires. Events on the ground have made clear that this deployment is entirely unnecessary and is harming the state’s economy and residents.   The Legislature’s amicus brief asks the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals to stop the illegal federal action. It includes personal accounts from reside...

  SALINAS, CA, July 20, 2025 – The 2025 California Rodeo Salinas brought the spirit of the West to life once again, drawing nearly 55,000 fans over 4 action-packed days of professional rodeo, community celebration, and family fun. From thrilling arena action to meaningful moments like the Golden Circle of Champions, this year’s event showcased the tradition, talent, and heart that make the California Rodeo one of the premier rodeos in the nation. The California Rodeo Salinas showcased top rodeo talent with thrilling performances across all events. Below are the winners of each event:     All-Around Cowboy: Wacey Schalla – Bareback Riding & Bull Riding     Bareback Riding Average Champion: Jayco Roper – 174 points on two head     Steer Wrestling Average Champion: Mike McGinn – 21.3 seconds on three head     Team Roping Average Champions: Tanner Tomlinson / Travis Graves – 48.5 seconds on five head     Saddle Bronc Riding Average ...

  Salinas, CA – July 17, 2025 – The 115th California Rodeo Salinas kicked off in front of an energetic crowd during Wrangler’s Bucking Cancer Night, presented by Mechanics Bank and Salinas Valley Health. Over 12,300 fans filled the Salinas Sports Complex for the first performance of this year’s iconic rodeo celebration. This attendance number was up 1.6% over the Thursday, July 17 performance in 2024.   In honor of Bucking Cancer Night, $1 from every ticket sold will be donated to the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Salinas Valley Health to support local cancer care and awareness efforts.   The evening featured thrilling rodeo action, including standout performances by trick riders Madison Schalla and Summer & Company, motorcycle jumping by Cowboy Kenny’s Steel Rodeo Tour, and exciting mutton busting, cutting, and barrel racing on the track.   Performance Highlights:     Bull Riding first round leader: Roscoe Jarboe, 84 points on Bridwell Pro Rodeo’s Die...

  The Monterey County Jail has lifted the temporary closure to the public and visitations are now being allowed. The jail facility had been closed to the public after PG&E identified a power safety issue on Tuesday July 15, 2025. This issue resulted in power being shut off to the jail facility until repairs could be made. The jail has been operating on emergency power generators that were providing limited power to the facility. On July 16, 2025, just before 10:00 PM, a supplemental emergency power generator was brought in and is now providing additional power to the Monterey County Jail facility. This includes areas of the jail that were previously without power such as our administrative offices, break rooms, briefing room and our main lobby where public visitations are processed. All areas where incarcerated persons are housed have been receiving power throughout the duration of this disruption. Public visitations have resumed as normal however, it is important for the publi...

  SALINAS, CA – A sold-out crowd of 10,498 people watched the Big Week Bull Riding Xtreme Bulls event at the Salinas Sports Complex on Wednesday night, July 17. Presented by Salinas Valley Ford, the Big Week Bull Riding continues to be one of the most popular events held each July, selling out from 2015-2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024. Colton Byram of Mound City, KS covered two bulls to win the championship – he scored 81.5 points on Red Neck from Four Star Rodeo and 91 points on Chucks Boy from Four Star Rodeo- with a total score of 172.5. Rancho San Lucas sponsored the championship buckle. Tickets are available for the upcoming California Rodeo Salinas, July 17th-20th, twenty-four hours a day at  www.carodeo.com . Thursday, July 18 is Bucking Cancer night at the Rodeo. Fans can bring an empty Coca-Cola bottle or can to the gate after 10 am to receive a $5 admission ticket. Gates open at 4 pm and the show starts at 6 pm. A full list of events and ticket prices ...

  Paso Robles, CA – Congressman Jimmy Panetta, California State Senator John Laird, and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma will speak at this year’s Building Trades Informational Meeting, taking place Friday, July 18 at 11:00 AM on the Headliner Stage at the California Mid-State Fair. This annual event—now in its sixth year—has outgrown its previous location in the Skybox and is moving to the Headliner Stage near the Stockyard Pavilion to accommodate growing interest from students, educators, and the general public. The meeting is a cornerstone of the Fair’s ongoing partnership with the skilled trades community, aiming to connect young people and job seekers with high-wage, high-demand careers. What to Expect: Attendees will hear directly from elected leaders and union professionals about the critical need for skilled tradespeople in SLO County and beyond, and how to get started in the field. In addition to Panetta, Laird and Ma, other speakers and representatives will include Loc...

  On Saturday, July 12, 2025, The Monterey County Jail in Salinas was notified by PG&E of an issue with the meter that services the facility. This issue resulted in a planned power outage to attempt to identify the problem that impacted the meter. This pre-planned inspection outage was scheduled for Tuesday July 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM. During the scheduled outage, PG&E discovered a power safety issue at the facility that required power to be shut off to the jail until such time that the power safety issue can be repaired. The emergency generators are operating as planned and are currently providing limited power to the jail facility. As a result of the power disruption, the jail is currently closed to the public for the operational safety and security of the incarcerated population and jail staff. All jail visits are currently cancelled but will be evaluated throughout the duration of this event. The Monterey County Jail understands the importance of communication between th...

  SACRAMENTO—  California Assembly Democrats are taking action against President Trump’s reckless ICE raids, which are tearing families apart and hurting the state’s businesses, workers, and economy.   On Tuesday, July 15 lawmakers in the Assembly Public Safety Committee advanced legislation that holds Trump’s ICE, Border Patrol and HSI agents accountable, requiring them to clearly identify themselves.   Several Democratic lawmakers also called for an end to the “secret police” that are indiscriminately targeting and detaining immigrants and people of color, and for federal agents to provide stronger identification.   Under Trump’s orders, immigration officers have operated unconstitutionally, taking people into custody without identifying themselves and refusing to show a badge or ID, which has created even more fear in communities.    One bill heard by Public Safety on Tuesday is The No Vigilantes Act, authored by state Sen. Sasha Renée Pérez, which ...

  SALINAS, CA- Get ready for an adrenaline-charged night at the 2025 Big Week Bull Riding, presented by Salinas Valley Ford, as the PRCA’s Xtreme Bulls Tour storms into the Salinas Sports Complex on Wednesday, July 16. This high-octane event will showcase some of the best bull riders in the world, including top contenders from the PRCA RAM World Standings and elite qualifiers from Xtreme Bulls events across the country. Gates open at 5:00 PM, with the action starting at 7:00 PM. Among this year’s standout riders are seven of the top ten in the standings:     Wacey Schalla (Arapaho, OK) – Ranked #2 in Rank 45 X Bulls     Ruger Piva (Challis, ID) – Ranked #4     Qynn Anderson (Koumala, QL, Australia) – Ranked #5     Tristen Hutchings (Monteview, ID) – Ranked #6     Dustin Boquet (Bourg, LA) – Ranked #7     Luke Mast (Hutchinson, KS) – Ranked #9 & the 2024 Big Week Bull Riding Champion     Jace Trosclair (Chauvi...

  If you are visiting the County of Monterey Government Center on Alisal in Salinas in July, you’ll see construction activity around the government and court buildings as the County’s COVID-19 Memorial is being installed. The beautiful new installation made of colored glass panels will be placed along the pedestrian plaza across from the Crime Victims Memorial, serving both as a reminder of lives lost and a way to honor all those that helped our county through the pandemic – our local healthcare workers, public servants and the community. The County of Monterey lost 940 residents to COVID-19 during the pandemic. This tribute was funded by donations made over the last three years and managed by the Community Foundation for Monterey County. Contributions are still being accepted. Major donors to the project include: Supervisor Luis Alejo Taylor Fresh Foods, Inc. Monterey County Office of Education Grower Shipper Association of Central California Salinas Valley Health Foundation Salin...

  SACRAMENTO—  On Monday, July 14 California Democrats spoke out against President Trump and Republicans’ historic, punishing cuts to food programs for families, which take away nearly a billion dollars in much-needed groceries and nutritional assistance from California parents and children.   Republicans in Congress recently slashed billions from SNAP and imposed harsh new eligibility requirements through Trump’s so-called “megabill,” threatening access to food for millions of Californians. These cuts hit vulnerable groups the hardest, including children who depend on school meals and older adults living on fixed incomes.   On July 14, California Democrats criticized Trump and Republicans during the Assembly Floor Session, condemning the GOP for making heartless cuts to pay for tax breaks for billionaires. Members voted to pass Senate Joint Resolution (SJR) 3, which urges Congress to avoid cuts to SNAP.   What Speaker Robert Rivas Says   “Everyone should b...

  KING CITY, Calif., 14 July, 2025 — The Lown Institute, a nationally recognized healthcare think tank, has released its 2025–26 Hospital Index, a national independent ranking of the top-performing hospitals. This index, considered a benchmark in the healthcare industry, evaluates hospitals and recognizes leaders in the movement for socially responsible healthcare. Mee Memorial Healthcare System earned top marks across all major categories in this year’s prestigious ranking, continuing its strong performance seen in the 2024 and 2021 editions of the index.   Mee Memorial Healthcare System received an A grade in the following six key areas:     Value of Care     Patient Outcomes     Clinical Outcomes     Inclusivity     Social Responsibility     Cost Efficiency  "There has never been a more critical time to champion rural healthcare,” said Rena Salamacha, CEO of Mee Memorial Healthcare System. "Mee Memorial exists...

  July 11, 2025 – Salinas, CA – The Monterey County Workforce Development Board (MCWDB) has received a 2nd round of funding from the California Volunteers, Office of the Governor, for the Youth Service Corps employment program. “The Youth Service Corps funding, of almost $2 million dollars, will help MCWDB address local challenges surrounding climate change and food insecurity while providing our local young adults with the opportunity to make an impact in Monterey County through the Green CADRE program,” said Monterey County Workforce Development Board, Executive Director, Christopher Donnelly. The Green CADRE program will provide up to ninety young adults, between the ages of 18-30 over an 18-month period, with paid job training, work experience and community service projects in Monterey County. The MCWDB Green Cadre program works closely with the California State parks, the City of Monterey and the Food Bank for Monterey County. Green CADRE projects include:     Park a...

  SALINAS, CA – The California Rodeo Salinas is more than just world-class rodeo—it’s a weeklong celebration packed with family-friendly activities for kids of all ages. Beginning on Friday, July 11th, and running through Sunday, July 20, families can enjoy various engaging events designed to entertain, inspire, and celebrate the next generation of rodeo fans. California Rodeo Salinas Carnival July 11–20, 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily at 295 Sun Way in Salinas Presented by Chick-fil-A North Salinas The week kicks off with the Rodeo Carnival. Admission and parking are only $5 each. Unlimited ride wristbands are available for $30 until July 10th. From July 11th through 20th, wristbands are $35 at the gate. Purchase online at carodeo.com until July 10 th or onsite once the carnival is open. More information: www.carodeo.com/events/2025/rodeocarnival Get Ready to Rodeo at Northridge Mall July 12, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Northridge Mall This free, family-friendly event will ...

  (PASO ROBLES, CA) – The California Mid-State Fair invites the public to its Opening Day Ceremonies on Wednesday, July 16 at 3:45 PM, officially kicking off the 2025 Fair with this year’s theme: Off to the Races! Held at the Fair’s main entrance, the celebration features a festive rope drop, plus appearances by the 2024 Miss California Mid-State Fair Pageant Court and roving Fair entertainers. Attendees will enjoy live music, bubble machines, a magician, a unicyclist, and free carnival rides all day long - no wristband required! As a special thank-you, the first 100 guests will receive: • One (1) complimentary Fair admission ticket (valid on any other day of the 2025 Fair) • A bag of kettle corn • An exclusive 2025 CA Mid-State Fair commemorative button The 2025 California Mid-State Fair is located at 2198 Riverside Avenue in Paso Robles and runs July 16 through July 27, featuring headlining concerts, family entertainment, livestock shows, food competitions, shopping, and more. Th...

  On Wednesday, July 9 Monterey County Sheriff’s Tina Nieto welcomed 3 new volunteers to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team during an informal Swearing-In Ceremony. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team (SAR) is comprised of both sworn sheriff’s deputies and civilian volunteers, making it one of the only search and rescue teams in the state to use both sworn and non-sworn personnel as fully functional members of the team. Specialized positions on the team include high-angle technicians, a swift-water rescue team, and mountain bike operators. Training includes lifesaving skills, including rigorous wilderness first aid training, avalanche rescue skills, technical rope skills, and helicopter rescue technician training. These dedicated individuals are fundamental assets for search and rescue missions as they operate in dangerous and demanding environments to ensure public safety. Sheriff Tina M. Nieto stated, “Our newest volunteers are committed to serv...

  PASO ROBLES, CA – The California Mid-State Fair is reminding community members that the deadline to apply for the 2025 Friends of the Fair volunteer program is fast approaching. All applications must be submitted by Friday, July 11, 2025. The Friends of the Fair program offers volunteers a unique behind-the-scenes opportunity to be part of the “Biggest Little Fair Anywhere.” Volunteers assist in a variety of ways including guest services, exhibit support, hospitality, and special events. Participants must be at least 16 years of age and able to commit to a minimum number of volunteer hours during the Fair, which runs July 16 through July 27, 2025. Whether you're passionate about agriculture, music, or simply love the Fair, this program is a great way to give back to the community, meet new people, and enjoy the magic of the Mid-State Fair from the inside out. Interested individuals can learn more and apply online at: https://www.midstatefair.com/fair/applications.php

  On Tuesday, July 8 Monterey County Sheriff Tina M. Nieto held an informal Swearing-In Ceremony to welcome newly hired Enforcement Operations Bureau Chief Deputy Eric Bixler. Chief Deputy Eric Bixler has dedicated his life to public service for over 35 years serving as an Emergency Medical Technician and a member of the United States Army. Bixler earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the University of California, Los Angeles, while he also holds a Juris Doctorate degree from Western States University College of Law. During law school, he clerked at the Orange County Public Defender’s Office. During his service with the United States Army, he received Platoon Guide of the Cycle for the entire Fort Jackson. Bixler started his law enforcement career with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in 1996 and rose to the rank of Lieutenant II. While with the LAPD, Bixler was a federally sworn Task Force Officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals ...

  City of Soledad Officials announced on Wednesday, July 9 that Patrick G. Valenzuela has been appointed as its new Chief of Police. Chief Valenzuela joins the Soledad PD from the Glendale Police Department in Glendale, Arizona where he served since 1996 as he rose through the ranks from patrol officer to police lieutenant, while he most recently oversaw the Foothills Division, supervising multiple specialized units including Property Crimes, the Neighborhood Response Unit and School Liaison Officers. He also played a key role in strategic planning, budgeting and internal operations for the department.  In addition to his law enforcement background, Valenzuela has also served in the U.S. Air Force Reserve and U.S. Navy where he led military police operations and supported national security missions during multiple deployments.  Valenzuela holds a Master's degree in Leadership from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Kaplan University. ...

  SACRAMENTO—  California is making a significant $200 million investment in child literacy in the state budget, a major win championed by Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) to strengthen the efforts of California educators and school leaders with the training, materials, and support needed to help every student succeed.   This funding will advance evidence-based early literacy and provide direct support to help California’s children learn to read in a proficient and timely manner.    Building on this budget investment, Speaker Rivas’ Assembly Bill 1454 passed the Senate Education Committee on Wednesday, July 9 with unanimous, bipartisan support. With joint authors Assemblymembers Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) and Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park), AB 1454 will strengthen early literacy instruction in the state by ensuring credentialing and curriculum are aligned with evidence-based literacy practices. The budget also includes $250,000 to support guidance for the instruc...

  SALINAS, CA – The California Rodeo Salinas returns July 17–20, bringing 4 days of thrilling professional rodeo action, special theme nights, and family-friendly fun to the Salinas Sports Complex. Tickets start at $26, but prices will increase by $5 per ticket starting Monday, July 14. There are several ways to save—if you act early. Friday, July 11 – Sunday, July 20 – California Rodeo Salinas Carnival Presented by Chick-fil-A North Salinas Enjoy all the thrills of the carnival with unlimited ride wristbands. Save by purchasing early—wristbands are $30 through midnight on July 10th. From July 11th to 20th, they will be $35 at the carnival gate.   Thursday, July 17 – Wrangler Bucking Cancer Night Presented by Mechanics Bank and Salinas Valley Health Support the fight against cancer by wearing pink for breast cancer awareness or gold for pediatric cancer awareness. Attendees can take advantage of the Coca-Cola Can Promotion by bringing an empty Coca-Cola product...