KRKC COUNTRY

  Salinas, CA – The June 2, 2026, Statewide Direct Primary Election is here, and there are a couple of things voters should know to get ready to vote. Monterey County local voter information guides and state voter information guides are now in the mail and will continue to be mailed out into the week of May 3. Ballots will begin mailing April 30th. All active voters will receive a ballot in the mail and in-person voting options will be available.   April 23 - Local Voter Information Guides begin mailing May 4 - Ballots mailed by this date May 4 - In-person voting available at the Monterey County Elections Office, 1441 Schilling Place –  Salinas May 18 - Deadline to register to vote May 19 - Same day voter registration period begins May 23 - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday voting at Monterey County Elections May 28 - Last day the Elections Office will mail ballots to voters - Last recommended day for voters to return ballots via USPS May 29 - Elections Satellite...

  Monterey, California - April 29, 2026-The final day of the backyard burn season is Thursday, April 30, 2026, for Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties. Every year, from May 1 through November 30, backyard burning of residential yard trimmings is prohibited. Fires to dispose of dry vegetation cleared before a construction project are also banned. These types of fires are prohibited during the summer and fall due to increased air pollution and fire danger. Burning vegetation emits carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and hydrocarbons into the air. During warmer weather conditions, some of these pollutants combine and react to form ozone and smog. Exposure to air pollution can cause health effects ranging from irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat to respiratory disease. These exposures can also aggravate existing health conditions such as asthma and emphysema. The backyard burn season restriction does not prohibit agricultural burning, including prescrib...

  SALINAS, CA, April 29, 2026 – The countdown is on! Tickets for Big Week attractions like the carnival and Coors Banquet Bull Xing Cantina, Big Week Bull Riding, and the 116th California Rodeo Salinas (July 16–19, 2026) will go on sale next week at carodeo.com. On-sale dates are staggered from May 5 through May 7, giving fans multiple opportunities to secure their spot at one of California’s most iconic summer events. Important Ticket On-Sale Dates (Online Only): • May 5 @ 10 AM – Coors Banquet Bull Xing Combo Ticket: Big Week Bull Riding (July 15) + Bull Xing (21+) • May 6 @ 10 AM – Coors Banquet Bull Xing Combo Ticket: Friday Rodeo (July 17) + Bull Xing (21+) • May 7 @ 10 AM – Carnival, Big Week Bull Riding, and California Rodeo Salinas Tickets The California Rodeo Ticket Office will open June 1st for in-person purchases. See ticket prices below. Carnival – July 10–19, 2026 (located at 295 Sun Way in Salinas) Enjoy family-friendly fun all week long with rides, games, and food fo...

  Soledad, CA — The Youth Councils of Greenfield, Gonzales, and Soledad are proud to announce the 3rd Annual South County Youth Summit (SCYS) on May 2, 2026, from 9am to 2pm at the Dennis and Janice Caprara Community Center in Gonzales. Student registration closes on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Organizers strongly encourage students to register early to secure their spot. Organized by youth, for youth, the summit brings together students, community leaders, and organizations to empower the next generation with the knowledge, connections, and opportunities they need to succeed. This year’s theme, “Beyond the Diploma,” focuses on helping students explore what comes next—whether that means college, career pathways, or programs designed to support their transition into the next chapter of their lives. Following last year's success with over 100 participants, this year’s summit is expected to draw 130–140 attendees. The program includes interactive workshops, a resource fair, giv...

  Lake San Antonio, South Shore will close on Thursday, April 30 through Sunday, May 3 for the highly anticipated Wildflower Experience (Wildflower). Wildflower is a 3-day event including a weekend festival and triathlon (bicycle, running and swimming) race. This event includes both races and a festival featuring live entertainment, celebration beer garden, wine tasting and informative race clinics. Attendance is estimated to be 6,000 people including participants, spectators, volunteers and employees. Race details are at https://www.wildflowerexperience.com/ There will be no general public admittance at South Shore from Thursday, April 30t through Sunday, May 3. North Shore will remain open to the public during the event. Boat launching will not be restricted at North Shore on Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 during the race. Boats may not access the area marked in red on the map (at right) during the swim, which is scheduled to take place from approximately 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sat...

  Firefighters with CAL FIRE BEU, the King City Fire Department, the Greenfield Fire Department and Fires Crews with the the South Monterey County Fire Protection District were paged to a commercial structure fire that broke out in the area of Airport Road and close to Bitterwater Road near the King City Airport after 10:30 pm on Monday night, April 27. It took over 5 hours for fire crews to control the fire and ensure that the scene was fully stabilized prior to being released. CAL FIRE BEU states that this response highlights the strength of mutual aid and the continued partnership between agencies working together to protect the communities they serve. 1 person was evaluated for injuries. The cause of the fire is unknown. 

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Monday, April  27 Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) introduced an amendment to The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 that would add the text of her bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act. This legislation, re-introduced by Lofgren and Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) in May 2025, would create a workforce solution for America's agriculture industry by reforming the H-2A guestworker program to provide more flexibility for employers while ensuring protections for workers and providing legal status to the existing workforce. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act was negotiated over nine months with input from employers and the United Farm Workers union, and it passed the House with strong bipartisan support in 2019 and 2021. "Farmers across the country are being adversely impacted by the agricultural workforce shortage. That's leading to unpicked crops and increased food prices," said Rep. Lofgren. "I've worked across the aisle for y...

  The California Mid-State Fair announced on April 27 An Evening of Music & Wine, on Friday, July 24, featuring legendary rock band Three Dog Night with special guests Ambrosia and John Ford Coley. This fan-favorite event combines world-class live music with the region’s celebrated wine offerings for an unforgettable evening on the Central Coast. Tickets for this highly anticipated event will go on sale Friday, May 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM. Ticket prices are $40.00 for grandstand seating and $70.00 for Golden Circle seating. Guests who held tables for the 2025 Evening of Music & Wine will receive table renewal procedures and additional details via email at a later date. Those interested in joining the table waitlist or with questions regarding table reservations are encouraged to contact the Box Office at tickets@midstatefair.com. Three Dog Night, known for iconic hits such as “Joy to the World,” “Mama Told Me (Not to Come),” and “One,” continues to captivate audiences with thei...

  Adorable pets need you! SPCA Monterey County fosters make a difference in a variety of ways. Right now, the SPCA is caring for 114 rescued puppies and kittens, with more arriving every day.  From bottle-feeding newborn kittens to helping a dog recover from a broken leg, foster volunteers provide the bridge between rescue and a forever home. While the SPCA provides all the medical care, food, and supplies, we are running low on one thing: you. Fostering isn't a lifelong commitment, it’s a life-saving one. Whether you have a spare bathroom, a guest room, or just a little extra space in your heart, you can help. The Commitment: Fostering can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The Support: The SPCA provides everything , food, litter, bedding, medical supplies, and skilled advice. Your Role: You provide the snuggles, the late-night feedings, and the safe space for a pet to heal or grow. “I told my daughter we could do it once,” says Bonnie, a volunteer who ...

  SACRAMENTO - The California Highway Patrol will conduct a 24-hour Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP) focused on speeding to help reduce serious and fatal crashes across California. The MEP begins at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, April 28 and ends at 5:59 a.m. on Wednesday, April 29. The enforcement effort will take place throughout the day and night, emphasizing that there is no safe time or place to drive at unsafe speeds. During the operation, officers will monitor roadways and take enforcement action against drivers who exceed posted speed limits or travel at unsafe speeds for the conditions. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to changing traffic conditions and greatly increases the severity of crashes. Even a slight increase in speed can significantly affect the outcome of a crash. “Speeding continues to be one of the leading causes of serious and fatal crashes on California’s roadways. When drivers choose to exceed safe speeds, they reduce their ability to react and increase th...

  SALINAS, California - Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announced on April 27 that on April 23, 2026 33-year-old Miguel Angel Espino was convicted by a jury of willful, deliberate, and premeditated murder of a fellow inmate at Salinas Valley State Prison in Soledad. The Honorable Judge Stephanie E. Hulsey presided over the trial. On August 19, 2024, Espino stabbed a wheelchair bound inmate 42 times on a recreational yard at Salinas Valley State Prison using an inmate-manufactured weapon. Prison medical staff attempted life savings measures, but the inmate succumbed to his injuries, which caused extensive hemorrhaging, and was pronounced dead on site. The jury also found true allegations that the crime involved a high degree of cruelty, viciousness and callousness. The Court found true Espino has 3 prior convictions for attempted murder, mayhem, and arson from Riverside County in 2024, which qualify as “strike” offenses within the meaning of California’s Three ...

  King City CHP units were paged to a fatal collision that occurred in the area of Metz Road just north of Spreckels Road outside of King City at 5:32 pm early Friday night, April 24.  A preliminary investigation determined that a 32-year-old male from King City was driving a 2014 Ford Fusion southbound on Metz Road just north of Spreckels Road at an at unknown speed and for unknown reasons, the Ford swerved into the northbound lane. A 50-year-old male from King City was driving a 2012 Dodge Ram, northbound on Metz Road north of Spreckels Road. The Dodge swerved left to avoid an accident with the Ford, at the same time the Ford swerved right, resulting in both vehicles crashing head-on. The driver of the Ford was declared dead at the scene and the driver of the Dodge did not sustain any injuries.  It's unknown if alcohol or drugs were determined to be a factor in the collision.

  Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has identified the person that was found to be unresponsive in their housing cell and was later pronounced dead. Just after 5:00 AM on Wednesday April 22, 2026, deputies at Monterey County Jail were distributing meals and located an unresponsive incarcerated person in their housing cell. Deputies and in-house medical personnel initiated life-saving measures. Emergency assistance was also requested from and provided by allied fire and ambulance personnel. The individual was transported to a local hospital where despite all life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead. The inmate has been identified as 34-year-old Alejandro Zepeda of Salinas. In accordance with established protocol and to ensure an independent and objective review, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has requested the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office Coroner Unit to conduct a post-mortem forensic examination to determine the cause and manner of death. The Monterey County Sher...

  Just after 5:00 AM on Wednesday April 22, 2026, deputies at the Monterey County Jail were distributing meals and located an unresponsive inmate in their housing cell. Deputies and in-house medical personnel immediately initiated life-saving measures. Emergency assistance was also requested from allied fire and ambulance personnel. The individual was transported to a local hospital. Despite all life-saving efforts though the individual was pronounced dead at the hospital. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office has requested assistance from the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office Coroner Unit to conduct a post-mortem forensic examination and determine the cause and manner of death. The identity of the person has not been released at this time pending notification of next of kin. The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is committed to transparency and accountability. This incident will be investigated thoroughly, and additional information will be released as it becomes available, co...

  Southern Monterey County Republican Women Federated will be hosting its Scholarship Luncheon on Friday, April 24 from 11:00am until 1:30pm at the King City Recreation Center located at 401 Division Street in King City. The best cooks in town will prepare salads and lunch specialties. There will be a silent auction and raffle prizes. Live music will be provided.  The proceeds from this event help fund three $1000 scholarships for High School Seniors in South County. Everyone is welcome to stop by for lunch or carry out. Tickets are $15 each and are available from any member or at the door. Call (831) 382-4230 for further information.

  SALINAS, CA — Ready for a summer filled with fun and fur? SPCA Monterey County is excited to announce that registration is now open for its popular Summer Animal Camps! Held at the beautiful SPCA campus in the newly renovated Claire Jacobson Learning Center, these camps offer children a unique opportunity to turn their love for animals into a summer of compassion, education, and excitement. SPCA Animal Camp is designed to empower children to make a difference for the pets and wildlife that enrich our lives. Through a mix of guided games and hands-on experiences, kids explore the vital work of the SPCA. Activities include lessons in animal safety and handling, hikes on the scenic SPCA grounds, crafting toys and treats for shelter pets, and meeting rescued wildlife, horses, and barn pets. "Our camps are all about kindness and compassion," says Kennedy Rivera, SPCA Community Educator. "From learning rescue basics to interacting with the animals in our care, campers get a ...

  WASHINGTON, DC – On Wednesday, April 22, on Earth Day, Representatives Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Don Beyer (D-VA), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the Wildlife Corridors and Habitat Connectivity Conservation Act. This legislation would support planning for and identification of natural species migration patterns to improve safe, free movement between habitats by establishing a National Wildlife Corridor System. “This Earth Day, I'm proud to help lead this bipartisan bill that would have a profound and positive impact on America's biodiversity,” said Rep. Zoe Lofgren. “Especially in my home state of California, wildlife corridors have proven to be a key solution to help species that are moving across habitats due to climate change. Not only will this bill help to reduce vehicle collisions with wildlife, but it will allow America's many ecosystems to flourish.” “Biodiversity loss has a major impact on our planet’s resilience and affects our lives as ...

  SALINAS, California - Monterey County District Attorney Jeannine M. Pacioni announces that her office, along with 10 other District Attorney’s Offices in California, have resolved a misleading advertising case against Venus Laboratories, Inc., which does business as “Earth Friendly Products” under the brand name “ECOS.” As part of the settlement, the company will pay $176,110 in civil penalties and costs to resolve the alleged violations. ECOS manufactures, markets, and sells cleaning products to California consumers, including through retail stores and online platforms. ECOS also advertises its products through its website, www.ecos.com. This action arises from allegations that the company marketed and sold laundry and dishwasher detergent sheet products labeled as “plastic free” and “zero plastic,” when the products contained plastic in the form of polyvinyl alcohol (“PVA”), also referred to as “PVOH.” ECOS further represented that these products were biodegradable when prosecu...

  SALINAS, CA, April 20, 2026 – The California Rodeo Salinas is proud to announce a new partnership with Monterey Bay Football Club for a special themed night, “Boots on the Pitch,” taking place on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Cardinale Stadium. This exciting collaboration brings together two of Monterey County’s most beloved traditions—Western heritage and professional soccer—for an unforgettable evening of family-friendly fun. Fans attending the match will get a taste of rodeo action both outside and inside the stadium. Before kickoff, the California Rodeo Salinas will host a lively activation area featuring appearances by Miss California Rodeo Salinas, a roping dummy, prize wheel, and more. (Activation start time to be announced.) At halftime, the Rodeo will bring the energy onto the field with a stick-horse barrel racing competition, featuring local produce company mascots alongside the Rodeo’s own mascot, The Dude, guaranteed to entertain fans of all ages. The Rodeo experience ...

  KING CITY, CA — SPCA Monterey County is making it easier and more affordable for South County residents to care for their pets this April. Limited appointments are still available for the SPCA’s upcoming Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinics held at the King City Recreation Center. With pet overpopulation remaining a critical issue, these donor-supported clinics provide high-quality surgical services at a fraction of the traditional cost. Residents are encouraged to act quickly, as spots are limited and require a deposit to secure an appointment. Upcoming Clinic Dates & Location     Wednesday, April 22     Thursday, April 30     Location: King City Recreation Center, 401 Division St. Affordable Pricing & Eligibility The clinic fees include both the spay/neuter surgery and a rabies vaccination:     Dogs & Puppies: $95     Cats & Kittens: $55 Requirements:     Available to all Monterey County residents.     ...

  According to the Monterey County Sheriff's Office an adult male was tragically killed in a fatal solo vehicle crash on Saturday, April 18. The King City California Highway Patrol reports that at 5:05 am officers responded to reports of an overturned vehicle on Jolon Road, south of Argyle Road outside of King City. Officers found an overturned SUV with major damage, and the driver, who had been ejected from the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office identified the man killed in the fatal wreck as 24-year-old Brandon Daniel Zuniga of King City. The King City CHP said that the driver was not wearing a seatbelt. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in the fatal collision.

  Monterey County Sheriff’s Detectives during the week of April 12 recovered an unlawfully possessed assault rifle following a search warrant at a residence on the 200 block of Pine Street in Soledad on Thursday of a convicted felon who was previously found in possession of ammunition. On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at approximately 4:00 p.m., Monterey County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop for multiple vehicle code violations in the area of Lapis Road and Del Monte Boulevard in Marina. During the stop, deputies determined the driver was a convicted felon on active probation. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of ammunition, which is illegal for a convicted felon to possess. The driver was identified as 28-year-old Ricardo Javier Martinez of Soledad. Martinez was arrested and booked into the Monterey County Jail for possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, violation of probation, and possession of methamphetamine. Following the arrest, Monterey Cou...

  Monterey, CA — Cake4Kids, a national non-profit dedicated to delivering self-esteem and joy through custom birthday, adoption, and graduation sweets, officially announces a monumental milestone in its mission: 100,000 underserved youth supported. While the organization is known for its volunteer-baked cakes, this achievement highlights a much deeper impact: 100,000 first-hand stories of resilience, recognition, and community belonging. For over 15 years, Cake4Kids has served children in foster care, domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters and many other challenging situations. This milestone marks 100,000 instances where a child—who may be navigating the most difficult chapter of their life—is reminded that they are seen and celebrated. "When we talk about 100,000 youth, we aren't just talking about a number on a spreadsheet; we’re talking about 100,000 moments of dignity, 100,000 moments of being seen," says Alison Bakewell, Executive Director at Cake4Kids. ...

  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—...

  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...

  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 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...

  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...

  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, 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...