Salinas NOW Podcast

In this 1st episode of City Chats with the Mayor, our podcast hosts sat down with Mayor Donohue to learn more about his journey into public service, the community values that drive him, and the people who have inspired his leadership. He also offers advice for those interested in getting involved in local government and making a positive impact. 

City Chats with the Mayor is a new quarterly series of the Salinas NOW Podcast! Each ep...

In this episode, we spotlight DigitalNEST in Salinas — a hub where creativity meets opportunity. Hear how this youth-centered nonprofit is equipping the next generation with skills in design, storytelling, and digital media. From building websites to crafting visual content, discover how young people in Salinas are finding their voice, growing their skills, and shaping their future — all through the power of the NEST. 

Your hosts fo...

In this episode of Salinas NOW, our hosts talked with Asya Guillory & Kendra Cabrera with Salinas Juneteenth who talked about the origins of the local event, what goes into planning it, and how it’s grown over the years. They share insights into the cultural significance of Juneteenth, the partnerships that make the event possible, and their hopes for continued community engagement. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Lali Solis, Youth...

What if making the healthy choice was the easy choice? In this episode, Tiffany DiTullio and Kendra Howell of Blue Zones Project Monterey County shared how their team is working to improve health and well-being across the county, side-by-side with the community. From working with restaurants and businesses to extra benefits for EBT cardholders,  @bzpmontereyco is partnering with the community to bring healthier options to the table...

In this episode, we sat down with Gracie Garcia, Community Engagement Specialist with the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center, to discuss the vital work of supporting survivors and fostering safer communities. Gracie shares insights into the center’s support and advocacy efforts, the resources available to victims and their families, and the ways we can all contribute to creating a culture of prevention and healing. Whether you&apos...

College can tuition can be a barrier to higher education, but California Water Services' scholarship program is one way they give back to the community! In this episode, our hosts chatted with Brenda Granillo, District Manager at our Salinas Cal Water office. Brenda and her team give back in many ways throughout the year and shared some great insider information on how youth can apply for a scholarship ranging from $2,500 to $...

We see the planes in the sky when it’s Airshow time, but did you know the Salinas Municipal Airport has so much more to offer? You can learn to fly, enjoy a concert or check out a car show. There’s even a restaurant that has everything from pasta primavera with artichokes to lumpia! Learn all about it from our Airport Manager Matt Nelson in this episode of the Salinas NOW Podcast.

Your hosts for this episode:

Juan Camacho, Youth Inte...

Did you know that the City of Salinas and County of Monterey have a partnership in providing animal services in Salinas? Cindy Burnham is the Animal Services Administrator who manages operations of the Hitchcock Road Animal Services facility. Cindy shares great information on considerations for adopting a pet, responsible pet ownership, and ways you can volunteer. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Juan Camacho, Youth ...

School Districts serve students but have also expanded services for families and the community. In this episode, we chatted with Deputy Superintendent of the Alisal Union School District Monica Anzo. She shared how AUSD has aligned their resources and services with the wholistic needs of their students and families, and gave us a highlight of the services planned for the new Buckhorn resource center. 

Your hosts for this e...

Did you know the City of Salinas' Recreation & Park Division is not just for kids and youth? Vivian Salinas shares how her involvement in the City's recreation programs as a child unexpectedly led her back to the City to manage the same programs she once participated in. Current programs range from preschoolers in the Tiny Tots, to senior programming at the Firehouse Recreation Center but her team leads activities and...

The holiday shopping season has arrived, which means that Santa is in Salinas too! Northridge mall is a regional shopping hub but it's also been a place where many memories have been made. Santa and the Easter Bunny always make time to stop by Northridge, but have you seen the new events the Mall hosts throughout the year, from story time and face painting to cultural celebrations like AAPI month and Día de Los Reyes?

Jonathan started playing soccer when he was 4-years-old in Salinas. Fast forward to his college graduation, Jonathan wanted to give back to his home -- his community -- and is now the General Manager of the Salinas Regional Soccer Complex! You may have seen changes happening at the Soccer Complex on Constitution Blvd. Listen to this week's episode to learn about the new services and facilities coming to the Complex. 

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"Art on wheels" is how Victor Cervantes, Chair of the Lowrider Council of Salinas, describes the beauty within the lowrider community. 2024 is the 2nd annual Trunk or Treat put on by the Lowrider Council, but the purpose behind this and their other events is to give back to the community and inspire kids and youth to stay focused on positive hobbies and interests. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Juan Camac...

Coming in HOT is the theme for the 2024 California International Airshow Salinas! This year's lineup will leave you wanting more with the return of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the Wall of Fire! The Salinas Youth Podcasters and City staff chatted with Harry Wardwell, Executive Director of the Salinas Airshow. 

Your hosts for this episode:

Daisy Guerrero, Salinas Youth Intern
Savinah Celaya-Vasquez,...