KRKC COUNTRY

  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...

  King City, CA — The Salinas Valley Fair proudly hosted its annual Miss Salinas Valley Fair Competition on March 26 & 27 at the Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City, California, where 17-year-old Morgan Hancock was crowned the 2026 Miss Salinas Valley Fair. Hancock is a senior at King City High School and a resident of Lockwood, California. Following graduation, she plans to attend Cuesta College before transferring to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where she will major in Kinesiology with the goal of becoming an athletic trainer. An active member of both 4-H and FFA, Hancock has demonstrated strong leadership and commitment to her community. Her involvement in 4-H includes serving in multiple leadership roles, from Recreation Officer to President. In FFA, she has earned her Greenhand, Chapter Farmer, and State Farmer Degrees, and was recognized as Outstanding Sentinel in Opening and Closing Ceremony. “I am beyond excited to be representing my hometown fair as this year’s Miss S...

  SALINAS, CA, April 8, 2026 – The California Rodeo Salinas continues to prove it is much more than a summer tradition—it is a powerful economic engine for Monterey County. A newly released Economic, Fiscal, and Social Impact Analysis shows the California Rodeo Salinas and Salinas Sports Complex generated $21.8 million in total economic output in 2025, up from $18 million in 2014. Conducted by Beacon Economics, the report found that Rodeo operations, attendee spending, and year-round events supported 93 local jobs, generated $6.6 million in labor income, and produced more than $2.4 million in tax revenue for essential public services. “The California Rodeo Salinas has always been about bringing the community together, but it’s also clear that what we do has a meaningful impact on the local economy,” said Barbara Causley, Salinas Sports Complex General Manager. “From tourism and hospitality to local vendors and nonprofits, this event touches so many parts of our community.” The stud...

  Monterey County, CA – The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, along with agents of the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) have cited 4 clerks for selling alcohol to minors between April 3, 2026 and April 4, 2026. The actions were the result of a Minor Decoy operation in which minors under the direct supervision of department agents, attempted to purchase alcohol from 14 retail licensees in Monterey County. Attempts to purchase alcohol at convenience/liquor stores were met with negative results. All 4 subjects cited were at Restaurant/Bar locations in the City of Salinas and Carmel Valley. Cited were 54-year-old Carlos Zarazua, 52-year-old Diego Gonzalez-Reyes, 33-year-old Juanita Galvez and 22-year-old Cassandra Rios. Clerks who sold to a minor face a minimum fine of $250, and 24 to 32 hours of community service for a first violation. In addition, ABC may take administrative action against the alcoholic beverage license of the business where alcohol was sold ...

  Salinas, CA – The nomination period to qualify as a write-in candidate for offices going to election in the Primary Election runs Monday, April 6, 2026, through Tuesday, May 19, 2026.   To qualify, candidates must meet the requirements of office and file write-in candidate nomination forms. Nomination forms must be filed at the Monterey County Elections Office located at 1441 Schilling Place – North Building, Salinas, CA 93901. There are no filing fees or candidate statements, and the write-in candidate’s name will not appear on the ballot.   To schedule your appointment:     Call: (831) 796-1499, or     Email:  CandidateServices@countyofmonterey.gov   For more information, visit CountyofMonterey.gov/Elections or call (831) 796-1499.