Good Vibes Only: Teen figure skating medalist turned mentor 

KVIA on May 2, 2025

Rosemary Montañez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA)– An El Paso figure skating champion is taking her knowledge on the ice and helping train the next generation of figure skaters. 

17-year-old Anna Genna-Hiroi is a junior at Coronado High School. Most of her downtime is spent on the ice. Anna told ABC-7 she started skating at just eight years old.

“After watching the Sochi Olympics, where I was inspired by a lot of the skaters. And when my parents found out that we had a rink here, I just, I tried it out, and I had a lot of fun,” she explained.

Anna is the only skater in her family. She said she loves how skating makes her come alive.

“I feel free and you’re able to express your emotions, like through figure skating, and I really enjoy that part. I also really enjoy performing a lot,” she said.

She’s a double gold medalist. She’s the first and only one from El Paso. Anna said the biggest challenge has been the lack of ice rinks in our area—her only option being the El Paso Rhinos Arena.

However, recent injuries interrupted her competitive figure skating run. 

“I definitely went through, like, a rough patch, and it was a long journey, but now I’m just focusing on myself, and I enjoy it a lot, and I’m happy. I’m happy to be someone that can represent El Paso.”

Now, she’s sharing her wisdom with others. She’s a coach with the El Paso Blades Skating Academy.

“I started coaching others because I’ve always liked helping people and like teaching little kids about skating, and I just found it fun, and so now I just enjoy being the culture and being able to help other skaters out so that they can reach the level they want to.” 

Anna said after graduating high school she wants to pursue a career that helps others. She also said she would like to coach others in college. 

If you have a Good Vibes Only story, email us at news@kvia.com.

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Changes in federal funding impact public broadcasting in El Paso, Las Cruces

KVIA on May 2, 2025

Olivia Vara

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — On May 1, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to cease all federal funding for NPR and PBS by June 30, 2025.

In response to the executive order, PBS and NPR have stated that they will consider legal action to protect their ability to provide essential news and educational programming to the public.

The CPB, which is expected to disperse $535 million in taxpayer funds annually, is emphasizing its independence from federal control as it challenges the legality of the order and the actions taken against its board members.

The order mandates CPB to minimize or eliminate indirect funding to NPR and PBS, with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tasked to investigate these organizations for possible employment discrimination.

While Trump’s previous budget proposals attempted to cut funding entirely, Congress consistently allocated resources to the CPB, reflecting the strong local support for public broadcasters despite national Republican opposition.

While federal funds constitute a smaller percentage of their overall budgets, the cuts are expected to impact local stations significantly.

PBS El Paso, known as KCOS and operated by Texas Tech University, and KRWG-TV in Las Cruces, owned by the Regents of New Mexico State University, rely on CPB support for educational programming and community outreach. 

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GSA moving forward with BOTA modernization project

KVIA on May 2, 2025

Heriberto Perez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — The U.S. General Services Administration announced today the final Environmental Impact Statement for the modernization of the Bridge of the Americas Land Port of Entry in South-Central El Paso.

GSA has selected “Alternative 4 – Multilevel modernization within the existing port boundaries, with minor land acquisition and the elimination of all commercial cargo operations.”

“GSA is excited to take this pivotal step towards providing El Paso with a modernized port of entry while balancing Federal Government requirements, community objectives, environmental policies, and available taxpayer funding,” said Jared Bradley, Acting Public Buildings Service Regional Commissioner for GSA’s Greater Southwest Region. “We look forward to continued partnership with El Pasoans through the procurement, design and construction of this critical land port of entry.”

According to a news release, the current land port buildings and infrastructure have reached the end of their useful life, operating beyond capacity and no longer meeting current U.S. Customs and Border Protection design standards.

“The much-needed project will improve the capacity of this vital port and allow CBP to meet contemporary border security initiatives effectively and efficiently while also delivering the highest level of customer service to international travelers utilizing the Bridge of the Americas port of entry,” said CBP El Paso Director of Field Operations Hector Mancha.

The Record of Decision provides the reasoning for GSA’s selection, including but not limited to:

Supporting the mission of the Federal inspection agencies at this port.

Improving operational efficiency, effectiveness, security, and safety for both Federal personnel and cross-border travelers.

Balancing potential impacts to the City of El Paso, El Paso County and the surrounding communities and residents near the port with other land ports of entry that can accommodate commercial cargo traffic.

Responding to comments from the public, elected officials and other interested parties.

ABC-7 reached out to the Mexico Cargo Transportation Chamber (CANACAR), National Association of Importers and Exporters of the Mexican Republic (ANIERM) and local leaders to learn the economic impact the border could see once commercial traffic is removed from BOTA.

Also, to Familias Unidas del Chamizal, who have long raised their voices to have the commercial trucks removed from BOTA due to their environmental impact and the consequences that several residents of that area have suffered in recent years.

More updates in later newscasts.

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Long-Awaited Renovations Broke Ground at The Lompoc Theatre

KEYT on May 2, 2025

Jarrod Zinn

LOMPOC, Calif. – A long-awaited moment finally arrived at the historic Lompoc Theatre, where the groundbreaking is 25 years in the making.

Once the heart of Lompoc’s cultural life, the theatre sat vacant and decaying for decades.

Now, a new generation of artists is eager to revive the space and share it with the community.

After 25 years of slow but steady progress, the city of Lompoc officially broke ground on phase 2 of the theatre’s restoration.

“It is in the center of town. It used to be the center of town emotionally and spiritually, in that all of the art happened here, people would gather. I’m looking forward to the heart and soul of this city beating strongly again,” says Mark Herrier, the Lompoc Theatre Project’s executive director.

In February, the stage will be opened as an 85 seat black box theater, while the rest of the building is renovated and restored to its former glory in time for its Centennial Grand reopening in 2027.

“2027 will be its 100th anniversary. And so we’re hoping to have phase three finished by then,” says Senator Joan Hartmann, 3rd district supervisor.

As it will be a new home for drama troupes, music bands, and more, it has the potential of reflecting the meaning of the word “Lompoc” as ‘liminal waters’ as opposed to ‘stagnant waters.’

“The theater will represent this new understanding of the term Lompoc, a place of dynamism and creativity, and that nurtures everything around it,” says Senator Hartmann.

Construction teams are updating the building to meet modern codes and redesigning the interior to restore its original elegance and grandeur.

The Lompoc Theatre Project is still fundraising for phase 3.

You can find out how to donate by clicking the link and visiting their website.

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Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program returns, with new grant funding

KTVZ on May 2, 2025

Barney Lerten

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The wait is over! The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has announced it will reopen the popular Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program on Thursday, May 22.

Here’s the full news release announcing the program’s resumption:

In even more exciting news, the program will remain open longer this year due to funds awarded to DEQ last summer through the Climate Equity and Resilience Through Action grant. Any vehicles purchased or leased before May 22 are not eligible to apply for the rebate.

DEQ offers two rebates*:

Standard Rebate (Open to all Oregon residents, businesses, non-profits and government agencies): Up to $2,500 for the purchase or lease of a new battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, or a new zero-emission ​motorcycle selected from the Standard Rebate Eligible Vehicle List.

Charge Ahead Rebate (Open to low- and moderate-income households and nonprofit, low-income service providers):

The Used Charge Ahead Rebate: $5,000 for the purchase or lease of an eligible used battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

The New Charge Ahead Rebate: Up to $7,500 for the purchase or lease of an eligible new battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

Select vehicle options from the Charge Ahead Eligible Vehicle List.

*You may only apply for one rebate.

To determine Charge Ahead Rebate eligibility for individuals, check DEQ’s Charge Ahead Rebate: Income Eligibility web page. Charge Ahead Rebate applicants can prequalify by completing the prequalification application to receive a voucher to be used at participating dealerships.

“The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program is enormously popular,” said DEQ Air Quality Transportation Section Manager Rachel Sakata. “By helping to offset the cost of an electric vehicle, it continues to be one of the best ways many individuals and families can gain access to cleaner transportation and improve air quality across the state.”

The Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program receives at least $12 million annually, or 45% of the state’s Vehicle Privilege Tax. Last year, overwhelming demand closed the program after just two months. However, the $31 million CERTA grant will expand the Charge Ahead Rebate option, giving more low- and moderate-income households access to savings. DEQ will monitor rebates and is required to suspend the program once funds are depleted. The agency will announce the closure date at least 30 days in advance.

Applicants have six months from date of purchase or lease to apply for a rebate. However, people are encouraged to apply early and track available rebate funding online. If approved applications are submitted after funds are depleted, those applicants will be placed on a waitlist for payment in early spring 2026.

Electric vehicles purchased or leased before May 22, 2025 will not receive state rebates and will not be placed on a waiting list, but they may still qualify for federal tax credits.

A variety of state agencies and public electric utilities offer savings on electric vehicle purchases, leases or charging infrastructure. The Go Electric Oregon website lists available incentives and provides helpful information for potential electric vehicle buyers and lessees.

DEQ’s Oregon Clean Vehicle Rebate Program web page has all the details. Please visit the EV Rebate Contact web page to ask questions. You may register at OCVRP Sign Up to receive program updates by email.

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Idaho governor proclaims May as Wildfire Awareness Month

KIFI on May 2, 2025

Noah Farley

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — As fire season is coming up, Governor Brad Little has declared May as Wildfire Awareness Month.

Governor Little urges Idahoans to do what they can to protect themselves, their property, and the community from wildfires.

The Idaho Department of Lands says it is working with state, federal, tribal, and local partners through the Gem State to teach people how to prevent and prepare for wildfires.

“Fire is part of the Idaho landscape, but it doesn’t recognize boundaries,” said IDL Director Dustin Miller. “It will race across forests, fields and neighborhoods without hesitation. That’s why it’s so important for all of us to do our part to prevent wildfires before they start and prepare in advance.”

For more information and to see the status of active wildfires in Idaho, visit here.

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Chuckwalla National Monument status threatened by lawsuit

KESQ on May 2, 2025

Kendall Flynn

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ) –  The Texas Public Policy Foundation filed a lawsuit questioning the constitutionality of the Biden Administration of the 624,000-acre Chuckwalla National Monument.

The monument was declared in January, and plaintiffs claim the declaration was in violation of the Antiquities Act of 1906 allowing presidents to designated national monuments.

They argue “it was clear at the time that the bill was intended for much smaller areas of land,” according to the press release.

In a press release statement, the Texas Public Policy Foundation Attorney Anelise Powers said, “The earliest national monuments were between 160-1,000 acres, but now presidents are designating millions of acres at a time. It is abundantly clear that Congress never intended for the Antiquities Act to be used in this way, but that has not prevented the Executive branch from using the Act as a vehicle to acquire extensive control over essentially all public lands. For this reason, sitting members of the U.S. Supreme Court have indicated an interest in reviewing the Antiquities Act.”

The lawsuit includes two plaintiffs in Daniel Torongo and the BlueRibbon Coalition. Torongo’s family has been mining in the Chuckwalla territory since 1978, and plans to continue mining in the territory into his retirement. Torongo is a full-time Michigan resident.

However, the lawsuit says the monument proclamation “burdens” Torongo’s mining in the territory by increasing restrictions and regulations to maintain his claim, and will keep him from expanding to nearby areas.

The BlueRibbon Coalition joined Torongo’s lawsuit claiming its members are prevented from enjoying the same trails prior to the monument declaration. Uncharted trails along with other temporary closures halted BRC member activity.

The monument designation interferes with “the ability of members of BRC to drive, hike, and otherwise explore trails within the national monument.”

The case defendants include Douglas Burgum, the Secretary of the Interior and overseer of management of the Chuckwalla National Monument through the Bureau of Land Management, the BLM and the United States Department of the Interior.

For the full lawsuit go to texaspolicy.com

News Channel 3 is working to speak with the BlueRibbon Coalition and members of the Protect Chuckwalla National Monument.

Stay with us for the latest update on the lawsuit tonight at 5 p.m.

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Columbia Ward 2 councilwoman to resign in two weeks

KMIZ on May 2, 2025

Matthew Sanders

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A first-term member of the Columbia City Council is resigning, nearly two years before the term is up.

Second Ward Councilwoman Lisa Meyer said in her resignation letter that she was leaving to focus on her health and family. “When I ran and started serving, I had no idea what was ahead regarding my health,” Meyer wrote.

Her last day will be May 16.

During her campaign, Meyer said she wanted to serve as a bridge from residents whose voices might not be heard and City Hall.

Meyer has been open about surviving head and neck cancer after a diagnosis in 2009. Her letter did not reference any specific health condition.

Meyer won a three-way race for the seat in April 2024, taking 54% of the vote.

It was not immediately clear how or when the seat will be filled.

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Charges filed against men suspected in Indio shootings that wounded mom, child

KESQ on May 2, 2025

City News Service

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – Felony charges were filed against two convicted felons suspected in shootings in Indio that left three people injured, including a mother and her five-year-old son.  

Jesus Delarosa, 25, and Ricardo Mercado, 29, both of Indio, were arrested Tuesday in connection with the shooting.

Delarosa was charged with multiple felonies, including assault with a gun and willful child cruelty. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and is scheduled to return to court on May 13.

Mercado was charged with multiple felonies as well, including two counts of assault with a gun. His arraignment was pushed back to May 13.

Both are being held without bail — Delarosa at the Benoit Detention Center, and Mercado at the Robert Presley Jail.   

According to the Indio Police Department, shortly before 1 p.m. Tuesday, the victims, identified only as a 30-year-old Coachella Valley woman and her 5-year-old son, were riding with Delarosa when he parked his pickup in front of a property in the 82-000 block of Mountain View Avenue, near Monroe Street, where Mercado was waiting to meet him.  

As the two were speaking, another man, whose identity was not disclosed, drove up and elicited a hostile reaction from Delarosa, police Sgt. Abe Plata said.

He said that “an altercation ensued,” during which Delarosa allegedly drew a handgun and opened fire, wounding the man.   

“During this confrontation, Mercado fired multiple rounds at the pickup truck occupied by Delarosa, the mother and her child,” Plata said. “Both the mother and child sustained gunshot wounds.”

Delarosa, who wasn’t hit, floored his pickup and fled the location, stopping moments later in the 43-700 block of Deglet Noor Street to seek help for his wounded passengers, according to the sergeant.

The boy, whose injuries Plata described as severe, was ultimately airlifted to Loma Linda University Medical Center for treatment. He was stable as of Wednesday night.

The mom was taken to JFK Memorial Hospital in Indio and was also stable. The man whom Delarosa allegedly shot drove himself to JFK for treatment but was soon after transferred to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, hospitalized with a non-life-threatening wound, Plata said.

“He was uncooperative with investigators,” the police spokesman said.  

A possible motive for the gunfight wasn’t provided. It was unclear how the parties were connected.  

Delarosa was taken into custody without incident on North Indian Canyon Drive in Palm Springs at the conclusion of the IPD investigation Tuesday night. Mercado was taken into custody around the same time after a search warrant was served at his Mountain View residence.

Delarosa’s and Mercado’s prior felony convictions weren’t listed.

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Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network receiving Dozens of Injured Baby Animals

KEYT on May 2, 2025

Patricia Martellotti

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network is seeing an unusual influx of coyote pups this spring, adding to an already busy baby animal season.

While the nonprofit typically treats just one or two coyote pups every few years, staff say they have already received eight so far this season — a record number.

“We normally don’t get any coyote puppies,” a spokesperson said. “We’ll get older juveniles and adults brought into care, but this is highly unusual.”

The center is currently treating 357 animals, up 57 from the previous week. The increase includes a wide variety of species, but the number of coyote pups stands out as an anomaly. Other wildlife centers across the region are also reporting they are at or near capacity with similar cases.

It’s unclear what’s driving the spike. Wildlife experts suspect the pups may have been orphaned, but they are awaiting surveys and biologist reports for more insight.

The center is now working to create a new enclosure specifically for coyotes and other larger mammals. Staff say the pups are recovering well and will soon be moved into a larger outdoor habitat.

“They are a handful, but it’s great to see them doing well,” the spokesperson said.

The Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network is asking for volunteers to support its efforts during this busy season. Community members who see a coyote in distress are encouraged to call the organization’s hotline.

For more information or to get involved, visit https://www.sbwcn.org.

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