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California Rodeo Salinas Announces 2026 Mutton Busting Dates and Entry Details; Young Cowboys and Cowgirls Get Their Chance to Ride During Big Week!

  SALINAS, CA, April 14, 2026 – The California Rodeo Salinas is proud to continue its tradition of introducing the next generation to the Western way of life with the return of its fan-favorite event, Mutton Busting. Presented by Pacific Valley Bank, Mutton Busting gives young riders the opportunity to experience the excitement of the arena as they try their hand at sheep riding in front of thousands of fans. The event will take place during the following performances at the Salinas Sports Complex: • July 15, 2026 – Big Week Bull Riding Xtreme Bulls • July 16–19, 2026 – California Rodeo Salinas Children aged 4 to 7 who weigh 60 pounds or less on the day of their ride are eligible to participate. Each rider will compete in a single performance, with a buckle awarded to the child with the longest ride each day. “Mutton Busting is always a highlight of the Rodeo,” said Track Director Braden Hoover. “It’s incredible to watch these young kids show their grit and excitement in the arena—...
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UPDATE: Monterey County Sheriff-Coroner Identifies Person Found in Arroyo Seco River on April 12

  On Sunday, April 12, 2026, at approximately 4:30 PM, a kayaker called 911 to report a vehicle in the Arroyo Seco River near the 47000 block of Arroyo Seco Road. The vehicle was described as partially submerged. Deputies from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and located the vehicle down an embankment and in the river. The California Highway Patrol’s H70 Air Unit and the Greenfield Police Department assisted with an aerial drone search of the surrounding area. Search efforts continued on Monday, April 13. Monterey County Search and Rescue personnel and established a rope system to safely access the river below. Members of the Sheriff’s Dive Team and Search and Rescue Team conducted a thorough search of the vehicle, confirming there were no occupants inside. After several hours of searching along the river and surrounding area, a deceased adult male was located approximately one- half mile downstream from the vehicle. With the assistance of CHP’s H70 helic...

Monterey County Search and Rescue Recovers Vehicle and Body from Arroyo Seco River on April 13

  The Monterey County Sheriff's Office reports that a Kayaker called 911 to report a vehicle they saw in the Arroyo Seco River near the 47000 Block of Arroyo Seco Road at 4:30 pm on Sunday, April 12. The vehicle was reported to be partially submerged. Deputies from Monterey County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene and observed the vehicle over the cliffs edge and in the water. The California Highway Patrol’s H70 Air Unit and the Greenfield Police Department also assisted with a drone search of the area near the vehicle. Search efforts were suspended on Sunday night due to darkness. On Monday, April 13, Deputies and volunteers from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team, Sheriff’s Dive Team, and California Highway Patrol’s H70 Air Unit, all resumed search operations for any possible occupants of the vehicle. Search and rescue personnel built a rope system down the cliff and lowered Sheriff’s Dive Team and Search and Rescue members to the river. A thorough ...

Monterey County Sheriff's Deputies Arrest Subject With Loaded Handgun During Sideshow Activity in Salinas

  Monterey County Sheriff’s Office deputies have arrested a passenger in a vehicle that was observed driving recklessly after he was found in possession of a concealed and loaded firearm. On Saturday, April 11, 2026, at about 1:30 AM, Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies were informed of multiple calls regarding vehicles involved in “sideshow” activity in the cities of Salinas, Marina and other areas of Monterey County. The Marina PD, the Salinas, PD, the CHP and the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office coordinated efforts to disperse the activity and conduct traffic enforcement stops. A Monterey County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a vehicle driving recklessly in the area of North Main Street and Bolivar Street in Salinas. When he activated his lights, his vehicle was immediately surrounded by 20 to 30 subjects who began vandalizing the vehicle. The deputy was able to drive away and attempted to catch up to the fleeing vehicle. As he did, another vehicle began driving recklessly and into on...

California Mid-State Fair (CA) Nominated for ACM Fair/Rodeo of the Year; A Community that Truly Loves Music Makes the California Mid-State Fair (CA) a National Contender

  PASO ROBLES, CA — April 13, 2026 — The California Mid-State Fair (CA) has once again been nominated for Fair/Rodeo of the Year by the Academy of Country Music as part of the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards. Rooted in California’s Central Coast, the California Mid-State Fair has built a reputation as a place where live music is part of the culture—bringing together fans, families, and visitors who return year after year for the shared experience of great performances across the Fairgrounds. In addition to the Chumash Grandstand Arena, the Fair features six free music stages throughout the grounds, showcasing national and regional acts and creating a dynamic experience where music is part of the Fair all day and all night. This year’s nomination places the California Mid-State Fair alongside some of the most iconic events in North America, including the Calgary Stampede, Cheyenne Frontier Days, Florida Strawberry Festival, and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. “This reco...

SLO County Young Women, This Is Your Moment: Miss CMSF Deadline is April 17

  PASO ROBLES, CA — Clock’s ticking n If you’ve ever thought “maybe I could do that…”—this is it. Young women across San Luis Obispo County have until Friday, April 17 to apply for the Miss California Mid-State Fair Scholarship Pageant—and it’s way more than a crown. Think: confidence glow-up, real-world skills, scholarship money, and a front-row role in one of the biggest events on the Central Coast. Don’t just go to the Fair—BE the Fair. • Win scholarship money • Show off your personality + talent • Pitch your own idea to make the Fair even better • Build confidence, friendships, and serious main-character energy Contestants compete in interview, talent, evening wear, and a Fair proposal—your chance to bring your own creative idea to life at the Fair. No experience? Doesn’t matter. This program is built for first-timers and seasoned performers alike. “This program is about far more than a crown,” said Courtney Lucas, Pageant Director. “It’s about confidence, mentorship, and creat...

Fort Hunter Liggett to Host 24th Annual Youth Fishing Derby on April 25!

  FORT HUNTER LIGGETT, Calif. - Fort Hunter Liggett will host its 24th Annual Youth Fishing Derby on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 6:30 a.m. to noon at Del Venturi Reservoir. The free event is open to the public and geared toward youth ages 15 and younger. The annual derby gives young anglers and their families an opportunity to enjoy a morning outdoors while taking part in a longstanding Fort Hunter Liggett tradition. Participants must register in advance. The event will include Best Fish competition categories for ages 0–5, 6–10, and 11–15, along with door prizes. Attendance is expected to range from 400 to 600 participants and guests. “The 24th Annual Youth Fishing Derby is a wonderful opportunity for young anglers to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors, make lasting memories, and reel in some fun along the way,” said the event organizer. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing rods and bait. Event staff ask parents and guardians to supervise children at all times, ha...