KRKC COUNTRY

  SALINAS, CA, June 26, 2024 – Get ready for the excitement of the California Rodeo Salinas Carnival, starting Friday, July 12 and running daily from 3 pm to 11 pm until Sunday, July 21. Located at 295 Sun Way in Salinas, this family-friendly event, presented by JoyPer’s Shoes, promises affordable entertainment during Big Week.   "We’re thrilled to announce the return of Brass Ring Amusements Midway of Fun for the 2024 Rodeo Carnival," said Danny Little, chairman of the carnival committee. "We’re looking forward to providing another fantastic experience for our community this year."   Admission and parking are priced at $5 each, and early bird unlimited ride wristbands are available for $25 until July 11. Afterward, wristbands will be $35 from July 12 to the 21. Purchase wristbands online at https://www.carodeo.com/events/2024/rodeocarnival or visit the Salinas Sports Complex Ticket Office at 1034 N. Main Street, open Monday through Friday from 10 a

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, June 26 the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) passed H.R. 8812, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), a biannual authorization of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Civil Works Program, which included 7 provisions requested by U.S. Representative Zoe Lofgren (CA-18).   “Proper water infrastructure – that prevents contamination and allows for clean drinking water – is a basic need in communities. As our country faces the effects of extreme heat, prolonged droughts and more severe storms, it is vital to make investments that improve resiliency and expand our water supply,” said Lofgren. “The provisions included for our often-overlooked Central Coast communities will either improve water resources outright or set the stage for future upgrades. The T&I Committee’s bipartisan vote today is an important first step, and I look forward to voting to advance this bill that is essential for California’s 18th Congression

  A multi vehicle collision took place on Highway 101 Southbound and near the Chualar River Road offramp in the Chualar area at 11:53 am on Wednesday, June 26. One vehicle was sandwiched between 2 big rig trucks. Minor injuries were reported from the wreck. 

PASO ROBLES, CA – Paso Robles Fire and Emergency Services would like to remind residents that all fireworks including “Safe and Sane” are prohibited in the City of Paso Robles. It’s that time when Americans everywhere will celebrate the Fourth of July holiday with family, friends, and fireworks. “While it is a great American tradition to enjoy fireworks around the Fourth of July, it is important to remember that all fireworks, even sparklers, pose dangers. The safest way to view fireworks is to watch professional displays,” said U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Chair Alex Hoehn-Saric. A report by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) finds a significant upward trend in fireworks-related injuries. For 2023, CPSC received reports of eight deaths and an estimated 9,700 injuries involving fireworks. Out of the eight deaths, five were associated with firework misuse, two with a device malfunction, and one involved unknown circumstances. This year the City of Paso Robles

  Salinas, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on June 25 that a jury found Jose Omar Soto Velasquez guilty of felony domestic violence and dissuading or intimidating a witness. Velasquez and Jane Doe had been dating approximately 1 year and lived together for several months with Jane Doe’s 2 children. On April 28, 2023, Jane Doe attempted to leave their apartment, but Velasquez grabbed her arm and pulled her away from the door. Velasquez grabbed her neck and began to strangle Jane Doe while holding her against the wall. Jane Doe retreated to her children’s room, where Velasquez followed her and refused to let her leave for several hours. Jane Doe managed to get halfway out the door at one point when Velasquez grabbed her arm and slammed the door shut against her body. Jane Doe took photos of the significant bruising caused to her leg as a result. Once Jane Doe’s children got home from school, she took them to stay with her family in another coun

  SALINAS, California- Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced that Gonzales resident Jose Jesse Marquez, age 31, was sentenced to 19 years and 4 months in prison on June 25 by the Honorable Jennifer O’Keefe. Judge O’Keefe previously found Marquez guilty of four counts of felony animal abuse with the use of a knife, felony resisting a police officer, and felony burglary. Judge O’Keefe further found enhancements for a prior strike conviction, and numerous factors in aggravation, true. These convictions constitute four strike offenses under California’s three strikes law, ensuring that the defendant will face life behind bars if he commits another strike. At approximately 2:29am on February 18, 2023, the defendant rode his bicycle to the Gonzales High School and entered the property to take a tool. While there, he became upset at his mother. He approached the barn area and stabbed multiple animals belonging to the students. Two lambs died, one lamb survived, and o

  A 3.5 magnitude earthquake shook things up in south Monterey County at around 2:20 p.m. on Tuesday afternoon, June 25. According to the US Geological Survey, the tremor rattled 15 miles east of San Ardo close to the Fresno County line with a depth of 3.2 miles. There were reports that people in King City felt the quake. No damages were reported.

  MONTEREY COUNTY – Here are the major scheduled road and lane closures for Monterey County from Sunday, June 23 through Saturday, June 29.  Highway 101: Airport Boulevard – Alta Street/Old Stage Road: June 25   There will be a moving lane closure along southbound Highway 101 between Airport Boulevard and Alta Street/Old Stage Road for spraying operation work from 8 am to 2 pm. Highway 101: Alta Street/Old Stage Road – Soledad State Prison: June 26   There will be a moving lane closure along southbound Highway 101 between Alta Street/Old Stage Road and Soledad State Prison for spraying operation work from 8 am to 2 pm. Highway 101: Soledad State Prison – Alta Street/Old Stage Road: June 27   There will be a moving lane closure along northbound Highway 101 between Soledad State Prison and Alta Street/Old Stage Road for spraying operation work from 8 am to 2 pm.  Please keep in mind that construction work is weather-dependent.  Monterey County: Blanco, Reservation and River Roads: May 28

  A 2 vehicle crash happened on Highway 101 Southbound and the near the Chualar River Road Offramp in the Chualar area at 3:45 pm on Friday afternoon, June 21. No one was injured. 

  A big rig caught on fire on Highway 101 Southbound and the Walnut Avenue Onramp in Greenfield at 3:34 pm on Friday afternoon, June 21. The #2 lane was shutdown temporarily in this area as firefighters worked on putting out the fire. No injuries were reported. 

  A 2 vehicle accident took place on Highway 101 Northbound and near the Old Stage Road Onramp outside of Gonzales at 2:49 pm on Friday afternoon, June 21. Minor injuries were reported as a result of the wreck. 

  SALINAS, CA, June 21, 2024 – The California Rodeo Salinas has distributed a record-breaking $47,500 in scholarships to local students pursuing higher education.  For 38 years, California Rodeo Salinas has proudly provided scholarships. Four years ago, the program expanded from solely offering scholarships through Hartnell College to including a program via the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC).  Students currently attending or graduating from Hartnell can apply for the Hartnell College scholarship. The CFMC scholarship is available to California Rodeo Salinas Committee Members or their relatives, and funds can be used for any college or post-high school education program, including trade schools.   Kelly McCarthy Sutherland, Chair of the California Rodeo Salinas Scholarship Advisory Committee, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Our committee had approximately 50 applications to review this year, with so many incredible students.  It wasn't easy to choose our recipi

(PASO ROBLES, CA) – The California Mid-State Fair is pleased to announce the following performers for the 805 Beer Frontier Stage. All shows are free with your paid admission to the Fair and start at 8:00 pm. The concert series is presented by Five Cities Water Systems. 7/17/24 – Miss CMSF Scholarship Pageant (6:00 pm): Come see the talented local contestants and find out who is crowned Miss CMSF 2024. 7/18/24 - Legends in Concert Tribute to Elton John: Prepare to be mesmerized by Kenny Metcalf’s sensational portrayal of Elton. Metcalf delivers an enchanting performance, capturing the magic of Elton John’s greatest hits, including “Benny and the Jets,” “Rocket Man,” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.” 7/19/24 – High Voltage – A Tribute to AC/DC: High Voltage has a well-deserved reputation as the premier high energy, authentic AC/DC tribute act. 7/20/24 – Umphrey's McGee: In the twenty-five years since eclectic improv-rock band Umphrey’s McGee formed, their sound has been an amalgamati

  June 20, 2024, Salinas, CA: The County of Monterey Board of Supervisors has approved the placement of a measure on the November 2024 ballot to increase the sales tax in the County's unincorporated areas by 1%. If approved by the voters in the unincorporated areas of the County, the measure will address anticipated budget shortfalls resulting from increased costs and funding cuts by the State and Federal Government. This sales tax will raise approximately $29M to help the County maintain and enhance public services. Use of Sales Tax Funds Funds collected from the increase in the Sales Tax will be used to provide funding for critical County services, including but not limited to: • Street maintenance and pothole repair • Enhanced public safety • Programs to reduce homelessness • Emergency services and disaster response, prevention, and recovery • Libraries, parks, and recreation facilities • Water and sewer infrastructure maintenance • Healthcare • Job skill development programs •

  SALINAS, CA – On Tuesday, June 18 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will distribute $5,712,770 in federal funding to health centers in Salinas and Watsonville.   “Federally-Qualified Health Centers, like Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas and Salud Para La Gente, provide vital services to some of the most vulnerable families in the Central Coast. I applaud robust investments that advance public health and expand access to needed care. I will continue to support federal funding that helps keep our communities healthy,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.   Rep. Lofgren announced the following two grants:     $3,404,718 to Clinica de Salud del Valle de Salinas to continue offering healthcare services in the Salinas Valley.     $2,308,052 to Salud Para La Gente to continue offering healthcare services in Watsonville and surrounding areas in Santa Cruz County.       This funding comes from HHS’s Health Center Program, which

  SALINAS, CA, June 17, 2024 – The California Rodeo Salinas is thrilled to announce the upcoming Miss California Rodeo Salinas 2024 contest, a prestigious event celebrating horsemanship, personality, appearance, and academic achievements. The reigning Miss California Rodeo Salinas, Rose Escobar, will pass the crown to one of the following accomplished contestants: Kyndal Castle (Miss Folsom Pro Rodeo), Summer Fanning (Miss Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo), Vianette Garcia (Miss Norco Rodeo Horseweek), Lillian Kier (Miss Clovis Rodeo), or Kate Richardson (Miss Bulls Only Rodeo). Miss California Rodeo Salinas serves as a year-round ambassador, traveling to rodeos, parades, and community events to promote California's largest rodeo. The 2024 contest, presented by Holiday Inn Express & Suites, will kick off on Friday, July 5th, and conclude on Sunday, July 7th, with the winner being announced before noon at the awards ceremony. The winner of this esteemed title will receive a $3,000 cash

  On Sunday night June 16, 2024 at about 11:25 PM, Monterey County Sheriff Office Deputies were parked in the area of Cornwall Street and England Avenue in Salinas. The deputies heard a subject yelling at someone. They then observed some males running. Deputies immediately drove towards the subjects that were yelling and contacted a male in the roadway. The male pointed to another male who was walking away and told deputies that he had just stolen his dirt bike style motorcycle. Deputies were able to find the motorcycle on the ground and could see the suspect walking away. As deputies approached the suspect, he began running and fleeing. However, Deputies were able to capture the suspect after a brief foot chase and take him into custody without further incident. He was identified as 43-year-old Roque Hernandez Tejada of Gonzales who was found to be in possession of controlled substances. Additional information was obtained from the victim who stated that Tejada had approached him and

MONTEREY COUNTY – Here are the major scheduled road and lane closures for Monterey County from Sunday, June 16 through Saturday, June 22.  Highway 101: Arroyo Seco Road – Lagomarsino Avenue: June 18   There will be a moving lane closure along southbound Highway 101 between Arroyo Seco Road and Lagomarsino Avenue for spraying operation work from 9 am to 2 pm. Highway 101: Lagomarsino Avenue – Jolon Road (South): June 19   There will be a moving lane closure along southbound Highway 101 between Lagomarsino Avenue and southbound Jolon Road for spraying operation work from 9 am to 2 pm. Highway 101: Jolon Road (North) – Greenfield Exit: June 20   There will be a moving lane closure along northbound Highway 101 between northbound Jolon Road and the Greenfield exit for spraying operation work from 9 am to 2 pm. Please keep in mind that construction work is weather-dependent. Lane closures and one-lane reversible traffic control will be in place along the following Monterey County roads for p

WASHINGTON, DC – On Friday, June 14 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that Greenfield Market and Gas, Inc. will receive $877,500 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help create infrastructure for the sale and production of renewable fuels.   “Climate change and its unprecedented effects pose serious challenges to our planet, and a large variety of actions must be taken to combat the crisis. The Salinas Valley’s rich ag sector makes it possible to produce bioenergy, and this federal funding will boost the local clean energy economy. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, which Democrats passed in the last Congress and provided the largest-ever investment in clean energy, we are seeing more and more important investments like this. I will continue to support projects that help expand renewable fuel options in our community,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.   This funding comes from the USDA’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, which invests in projects to

WASHINGTON, DC – On Friday, June 14 U.S. Representatives Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) and Andrea Salinas (OR-06), as well as U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) introduced the bicameral Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act. This legislation would provide compensation for farmworkers who lose out on wages due to extreme weather, public health emergencies, and other disasters beyond their control.   "When extreme weather occurs, farmworkers across the United States continue to help feed the nation. And yet, these essential workers and their families face great uncertainty when unexpected disasters cause them to lose work and income. In my congressional district, after severe flooding in early 2023, hundreds of farmworkers in the Pajaro community faced displacement and lost wages. They and all farmworkers deserve better. That's why I'm proud to be co-leading the Disaster Relief for Farm Workers Act with Rep. Salinas and Sens. Padilla and Bennet. Our bill ensure

According to a release put out on Friday, June 14 by the Greenfield Police Department, 42-year-old Julio Martinez of Greenfield was arrested and charged with child molestation. It's reported that Martinez committed lewd acts with 2 children who were under 10 years old. Police are investigating whether Martinez may have more victims. Anyone with information about Martinez are asked to contact the Greenfield Police Department. 

  A bat found on Friday, June 7, 2024, near Portola Drive and Anza Drive in the Toro Park area of unincorporated Monterey County has tested positive for the rabies virus. Hitchcock Road Animal Services has investigated this incident and determined that there was no exposure to either humans or pets. This is the second bat this year to test positive for the rabies virus in the Toro Park area.   Rabies is a virus that causes a fatal illness in humans and other mammals. The County of Monterey Public Health Bureau and Animal Services want to remind residents and visitors that there is a continuous presence of rabies in local wildlife, both inside and outside of the city. In Monterey County, skunks and bats are the most common species to test positive for the virus.  Domestic animals, including companion dogs and cats, are at risk for rabies exposure when they come in contact with wildlife. Domestic animals are at increased risk of rabies if they are not protected by a rabies vaccination, a

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Thursday, June 13 U.S. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will distribute $1,385,217 to the San Benito Health Foundation.   “Federally Qualified Health Centers, like the San Benito Health Foundation, serve as lifelines for many in our communities. In San Benito County, the health care landscape is particularly fragile, and I am relieved federal funding is continuing to be allocated that helps ensure access to affordable care locally. I will continue working to help sustain and expand care options for all of our neighbors in CA-18,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren.   This funding comes from HHS’s Health Center Program, which is overseen by the Health Resources and Services Administration, to support community-based and patient-directed nonprofit organizations that provide primary and preventive health care services to underserved populations in the U.S. The funding was included in the FY24 consolidated appr

  According to the Atascadero Police Department, 2 people suspected to be involved in a strong-armed robbery at a Walgreens Store in Atascadero between 6 pm and 7 pm on Wednesday night, June 12 are in custody after leading police on a chase that ended in Gonzales. The California Highway Patrol came across the suspected vehicle in Monterey County which led to the pursuit that ended when the vehicle went off the side of Highway 101 into a ditch near 5th Street in Gonzales. The 2 people inside the car were caught and arrested before 9 pm. The names of both people detained has not yet been released. 

  A power outage happened at 11:47 am on Wednesday, June 12  affecting 588 customers in King City residing on Spreckels Road, Metz Road, Airport Road, San Antonio Drive, Lewis Street, Meyer Street, Walker Avenue, Casey Street, Sherwood Avenue, Calcagno Street, Soberanes Street, Bilkie Drive, Brumwell Street, Mildred Avenue, Andrus Street, Oates Avenue, Van Nort Street, Campbell Avenue, Arboleda Lane, Divina Lane, Ermosa Lane, Lon Sing Avenue, Livingston Avenue and Heirloom Place. PG&E work crews restored electricity to all of the affected customers sometime after 5 pm. The cause of the outage is suspected to be due to a tractor hitting a transmission line.

  The Soledad Police Department is searching for 2 thieves who broke into an Ace Hardware store on 900 Front Street at 6 am early Friday morning, June 7. The 2 men were able to get into the store by cutting a hole in a metal wall. Security video surveillance footage at the store captured both men leaving the store with only a couple items, one of them being an air-blower backpack. As of Monday, June 10 no arrests have been made. Ace Hardware in Soledad recently opened in April of 2024. 

  KING CITY, Calif., June 7, 2024 — Mee Memorial has been recognized by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of “27 critical access hospitals to know in 2024.” The list includes critical access hospitals across the US, describing them as: "Vital components of the overall healthcare delivery system, providing quality care to the residents and visitors of rural areas. These small but mighty organizations are working to expand access to specialty care, cut down on patient travel times, and improve community health." The review included the following about Mee Memorial: "The hospital has been enhancing its service offerings through the renovation of its emergency and diagnostic imaging departments, and through the addition of a pediatric health and wellness center. The organization is also focused on community outreach, engaging the broader community with diabetes education and initiatives because diabetes has been pinpointed as a significant community concern. Mee Memorial Healt

  Lane closures and one-lane reversible traffic control will be in place along the following Monterey County roads for pavement repair work from 7 am to 5 pm: ·       Blanco Road, from Davis Road to Luther Way ·       Reservation Road, from Davis Road to Portola Drive ·       Reservation Road, from East Garrison Drive to Panziera Road ·       River Road, From 1.3 miles west of Chualar River Road to 2.6 miles west of Chualar River Road   The public is advised to use alternate routes.

  (PASO ROBLES, CA) – Online applications are now being accepted for the Fair’s “Junior Fairboard” volunteer program. The California Mid-State Fair Junior Fairboard consists of young people between 16 and 25 years of age living in San Luis Obispo County. Members assist with the day-to-day operations of the annual Fair, including events such as assisting in livestock and equestrian support, pageant set up, public judging, market research and any other duties/committees as assigned by Fair Staff, management, or Fair Board. In addition, members help in the livestock area during weigh in and auction day, act as ushers in the Main Grandstand, and scan tickets. Junior Fairboard members receive a jacket/t-shirt (to be worn at all Main Grandstand events and all committee activities), a photo ID badge granting admission to the Fair, meal tickets redeemable at designated California Mid-State Fair food venders and one (1) free guest pass per night valid for Main Grandstand events (upon artist app

  SALINAS, California - Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni on Wednesday, June 5 released the names of the officers who fired shots in the officer involved shooting which occurred on Monday night, June 3, 2024, on Highway 101 near Soledad. Both are employed by the King City Police Department. Sgt. Anthony Shaw. He has been employed as a sergeant with KCPD for 3 years, 9 months. Before his current employment, he was a peace officer with Central Marin Police Authority for 13 years, 4 months. Officer Cody Hughes. He has been employed with KCPD for 3 months. Before his current employment, he was a Monterey County Probation Officer for 16 years. The suspect involved in the shooting, 36-year-old Armando Garcia Rodriguez is still being treated at a local hospital and will be booked into the Monterey County Jail. The DA's office reports that Rodriguez fired 4 rounds at officers before Shaw and Hughes returned fire.

  The Paso Robles City Library will kick off their biggest summer reading program to date with a Summer Reading Launch Party in Downtown City Park on June 15 from 1-3 PM. Attendees will be able to register for the 2024 Summer Reading Program as well as enjoy snacks, activities and games. Registration for the 2024 program, themed “Adventure Begins at the Paso Robles City Library” will open June 10-August 10. In addition to the reading rewards, the Library will also host performers, activities, crafts, swimming and free lunch all summer long at multiple locations around Paso Robles. Summer Reading Challenge Patrons can register for the Summer Reading Program at the Paso Robles City Library starting June 10 and receive a summer reading passport. To earn a prize, participants must read 10 hours and track their progress in the passport’s reading log. Additionally, for each 10 hours read, participants will earn a ticket to enter our grand prize drawing to win a $400 gift certificate to Marga