Free workshops offer guidance to first-time buyers as Coachella Valley home prices cool slightly

KESQ on June 6, 2025

Shay Lawson

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – As housing affordability continues to challenge first-time buyers in the Coachella Valley, a new set of free workshops is offering them tools to navigate the process — just as local home prices see a slight decline.

Lift to Rise, in partnership with Secure Choice Lending, launched a free workshop series on Thursday in Palm Springs to support residents who are hoping to break into the market for the first time.

Dozens of people attended.

Organizers said each session provides step-by-step guidance on qualifying for loans.

The workshops will continue throughout June across the valley including in La Quinta, Desert Hot Springs, Indio and Coachella. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged.

Stay with News Channel 3 for a look at what loans are available and how first-time buyers are navigating today’s market.

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Local veteran reacts as Pentagon moves to rename USNS Harvey Milk

KESQ on June 6, 2025

Allie Anthony

The Pentagon has announced plans to rename the USNS Harvey Milk, a Navy supply ship honoring the gay rights icon and veteran. This comes during Pride Month, sparking backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates.

News Channel 3 spoke to a local Navy veteran, who is part of the LGBTQ+ community, about what this means. “Its Another big slap in the face,” said veteran Ernest Meeker. “The secretary of defense should be focusing on defending the country instead of trying to change history.”

The Pentagon is also reviewing other ships named after civil rights leaders, including the USNS Thurgood Marshall and USNS Harriet Tubman. Critics believe the decision could damage morale and shift military focus away from national security priorities.

Watch News Channel 3 at 4 p.m. for more.

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Locals to hold Sunday candlelight vigil for Kano Aguerro

KYMA on June 6, 2025

Eduardo Morales

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – The Yuma community is coming together Sunday in memory of the two-year-old boy suspected of being murdered by his mother.

Kano Aguerro was found dead last week while his mother, 20-year-old Angelina Vazquez, and her boyfriend, 23-year-old Miguel Garcia, were formally charged for the child’s murder.

Locals are coming together to show their support for the child.

“I did have the privilege of meeting baby Kano one time, and I just think that no child deserves this,” said vigil organizer Shirley Senseney.

Senseney says the vigil will also spread an important message to other moms.

“I think that us as mothers should know that there is a community that stands when they feel out, when they feel that they can’t do it, when they feel that they aren’t capable of taking care of a child that there are people out there that will help,” Senseney said.

Kano’s father, Ethan Aguerro, appreciates the support for the community.

“It really makes me happy that everybody, everybody has just been, just been there for me and for them to want to do a candlelight vigil,” Aguerro says.

The vigil will take place this Sunday at 6 p.m. at the Ocean to Ocean Gateway Park where everyone is welcome to attend.

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Palm Desert Aquatic Center offers special summer programs and events

KESQ on June 6, 2025

Cynthia White

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – Palm Desert Aquatic Center is announcing its “Splash Season” for the summer, offering programs and events for all ages.

In addition to PDAC’s regular activities and programs, the Splash Season offerings include:

Dive in Movies – A series of three movie nights on Fridays: June 20, July 11, and August 8. Gates open at 7:30 p.m. with movies starting at sundown. Slides, splash playground, and select pool areas will be open, along with the Hot Spot Cafe for snacks and beverages. With limited poolside seating, guests are encouraged to bring towels for grass areas. Tickets are $8 per person, with kids under 2 free.

Hot Summer Nights – Every Tuesday and Friday starting June 6, from 7:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Music, dance parties and more. Book a cabana or find a spot on the lawn. Slides, splash playground, and select pool areas will be open, along with the Hot Spot Cafe for snacks and beverages. General admission rates.

Juneteenth – All amenities open from 10:30 a.m. until 5:45 p.m. General admission rates.

July 4th Celebration – Enjoy the pools and watch the fireworks at Civic Center Park. 12:00 noon until the fireworks end at the park. General admission rates.

For more information, rules, and admission rates, visit PDPool.com or call (760) 565-7467.

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Fulton man accused of shooting at man during property exchange

KMIZ on June 6, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Fulton man was arrested and charged with multiple felonies after witnesses claimed he shot at another man several times during a property exchange between a divorced couple.

Isaiah Freise, 24, was charged Thursday in Miller County with unlawful use of a weapon, tampering with evidence, first-degree property damage and armed criminal action. He is being held at the Miller County Jail on a $150,000 bond. A court date has not been set.

The probable cause statement says the victim arrived to Miller County to pick up a truck, trailer and four-wheeler from his ex-wife. The ex-wife’s boyfriend was present, as was Freise, the statement says.

Court documents say the victim forgot to bring a doll box and sent the wrong amount of money through a banking phone application. The statement then says the victim and witnesses told law enforcement that Freise pulled out his gun without being provoked and began firing.

More than $750 worth of damage was observed by law enforcement and seven shell casings were found, the statement says. Freise allegedly dropped off the witnesses at a residence before driving back to Callaway County, where he was arrested, the statement says.

Freise allegedly admitted to shooting at the victim, the statement says.

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Golden eaglet Ayama flies off from the nest along Whychus Creek, viewed online far and wide

KTVZ on June 5, 2025

Barney Lerten

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Ayama, a golden eaglet widely viewed on the Golden Eagle Camera along Whychus Creek Canyon, flew off from his nest Wednesday evening as many online watched and cheered.

Jim Hammond of the East Cascades Bird Alliance said Ayama left around 7:15 p.m. Wednesday after a nesting season that began when the egg was laid in February

The East Cascades Bird Alliance supports the online nest camera, located on the property of Leslie Lawrence.

The camera, which has been in place for over 15 years, is located in the Deschutes Land Trust’s Aspen Hollow Preserve, and the project is supported by Yellowknife Wireless.

“This is the only live camera viewing a golden eagle nest outside of eastern Europe (as far as we know),” he said.

Hammond said while they don’t really know the gender of the eaglet, “we seem to be comfortable calling it a ‘he.'”

He said Ayama’s name is derived from a Native American word meaning “golden eagle.”

The now empty-nester parents, Petra and Rocky, have been using this nest for 12 or more years, Hammond said.

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Pair convicted of killing Anza man they considered liability in theft ring

KESQ on June 5, 2025

City News Service

MURRIETA, Calif. (KESQ) – Two of three men who abducted, severely beat and fatally shot an Anza man because they believed he might snitch on them for perpetrating thefts at marijuana grows were both convicted this week of first-degree murder.   

George Frank Holley Jr., 42, of Oklahoma City and Nico Manuel Zahir, 30, of Anza conspired in the slaying of 42-year-old Brian Messina in 2020.   

Separate juries heard their cases at the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta over a nearly monthlong period. On Monday, Holley’s jury found him guilty of the murder count, firearm assault and a special circumstance allegation of killing in the course of a kidnapping. On Thursday, Zahir’s jury convicted him of the murder count, along with firearm assault, false imprisonment, the special-circumstance allegation and sentence-enhancing gun and great bodily injury allegations.   

Riverside County Superior Court Judge Timothy Freer scheduled Holley’s sentencing for July 18 and Zahir’s for Aug. 15. Both men are being held without bail — Holley at the Benoit Detention Center, Zahir at the Robert Presley Jail.

Their co-defendant, 40-year-old Joe Anthony Serna of Anza, pleaded guilty in February 2024 to assault resulting in great bodily injury, gun assault and making criminal threats. He’s being held without bail at the Byrd Detention Center and is slated for sentencing on Friday.

Joe Anthony Serna

Sheriff’s investigators said the men suspected Messina was secretly gathering evidence against them in connection with multiple armed thefts at illegal cannabis grows in the Anza Valley.

Holley was the first to make the allegation against his former friend, according to an arrest warrant affidavit filed by sheriff’s Detective Lance Stoyer. He wrote that Holley had witnessed Messina using his mobile phone to record conversations the men had concerning the thefts.

“Holley privately spoke to Serna about the recordings and planned to search Messina’s cellular phone without Messina’s knowledge or consent,” according to the affidavit.

The men were ultimately able to access the phone, and while scanning data, “Serna saw a social message that Messina had sent (stating) that if he — Messina — were to go missing or found dead, Serna would be responsible for the murder,” Stoyer said.

The three conspirators became convinced Messina was a liability, prompting a confrontation at a residence in the 39600 block of Howard Road in Anza on the night of Nov. 29, 2020, according to court papers.   

In a later interview, Holley told detectives that a verbal altercation erupted, and Serna and Zahir attacked the victim, with Zahir pistol-whipping him and Serna kicking him multiple times.

The defendants beat Messina into submission, then forced him into a Toyota Tundra pickup and drove to a remote area along Bautista Road, where they all got out.

Zahir used a shotgun to execute the victim on the side of the road, Stoyer said.

None of the men had documented prior felony convictions in Riverside County.

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Columbia begins enforcing new short-term rental rules

KMIZ on June 5, 2025

Mitchell Kaminski

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Just four days after short-term rentals in Columbia had to start complying with an ordinance put into place earlier this year, the Planning and Zoning Commission is set to hold five public hearings on short-term rental applications.

The ordinance was approved by the City Council, which added several amendments before passing the measure last July. Property owners had to comply by June 1.

Since taking effect in February, Columbia has received 75 short-term rental applications, with five being withdrawn, according to Development Services manager Patrick Zenner.

Under the ordinance, short-term rental owners must obtain a business license and a certificate of compliance. Depending on the type and location of the rental, some owners may also be required to apply for a conditional use permit. Additionally, all owners are responsible for paying the applicable nightly accommodation taxes to the City of Columbia.

One family who attended Thursday night’s hearing but wished to remain anynomous due to potential pushback from neighbors, called the application process “frustrating”. The family recently moved out of Columbia and were looking to rent out their home year round, however they were also surprised to learn that all of their neighbors received mailed notices about their rental plans before the hearing.

Airbnb owners ABC 17 News spoke with last March were split on the new ordinance.

Matt Ryan — who owns four Airbnb locations in Columbia — said at the time the rules could cost the city and local businesses money.

“It’s going to force people to operate outside the city limits with these properties and force guests to go outside of Columbia instead of spending their own money here in town,” Ryan said in 2024. “People who want to visit Columbia, are going to find that difficult to find an area to accommodate a bigger family.”

However, Melissa Menard — who has owned Airbnb’s for four years, which includes a property in Columbia — told ABC 17 News in March 2024 that she was unbothered by the ordinance.

“I think it’s a good thing for the city to know how many Airbnbs there are and where they are and to be able to decide what saturation they want,” Menard said in 2024. “I also know that it’s really important that there be enough rental stock, enough affordable rental stock for people. So we’re actually scheduled to stop ours in July of 2025. That’s the end of our reservations and then we’ll make it a rental because it’s necessary for Columbia’s well-being.”

Below are additional highlights from the ordinance listed on the city’s website: 

The ordinance defines three tiers of short-term rentals with maximum rental night limitations.

A dwelling unit occupied by the same individual for a period of greater than 30 consecutive days, under a signed lease, is considered a long-term rental and is not subject to the short-term rental ordinance.

Short-term rentals will have a maximum of eight occupants.

The ordinance sets a limit of one short-term rental license per owner.

Short-term rentals will require registration and inspection.

A designated agent, located within Boone County, shall be available to respond to complaints 24 hours a day, seven days a week when the operator is not available.

Short-term rentals must have the following information posted in the unit:

Certificate of compliance

Contact information for the registrant, owner and that of the designated agent representing the dwelling unit in the absence of the registrant.

Contact information for emergency services and the City’s Community Development department.

Occupancy limit as stated on certificate of short-term rental compliance.

An emergency evacuation route map

If a property has an accessory dwelling unit, only one dwelling can be used for a short-term rental.

Check back for updates.

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Hello June! Everything Happening this Weekend on the Central Coast

KEYT on June 5, 2025

Alissa Orozco

June is here and its officially the start of summer here on the Central Coast. There are inclusive events for everyone in the community that you won’t want to miss out on. Here’s what’s going on this weekend near and far:

SANTA BARBARA – SOUTH COUNTY

Photo: Santa Barbara Zoo

Meet Me in Old Town Goleta ~ Thursday, June 5th in Goleta

📍Goleta Valley Community Center

⏰ 5:00pm – 8:00pm

🪩 Invite family and friends to meet you in Old Town! The City of Goleta is hosting three community events to support local businesses in area, and its a great opportunity to explore the heart of Old Town. The evening will have yummy food, games, and live music from East Valley Road! Learn more here.

Zoo Brew ~ Saturday, June 7th in Santa Barbara

📍Santa Barbara Zoo

⏰ 5:00pm – 8:00pm

🪩 Drink beer, Save Wildlife! This 21+ only event invites you to explore the zoo and its wildlife, while enjoying tastings from local breweries and vendors! A general admission ticket includes unlimited tastings, and if you’re a Zoo Brew VIP, appetizers are included too. Food and non-alcoholic beverages will also available for purchase. Learn more here.

World Ocean Day ~ Sunday, June 8th in Santa Barbara

📍Santa Barbara Zoo

⏰ 10:00am – 2:00pm

🪩 To celebrate World Ocean Day, the Zoo will dedicated the day to its marine wildlife. Keepers will host talks on snowy plovers, otters, and penguins, animal encounters, and other ocean-related activities. All special events will be in included with Zoo admission. Learn more here.

2025 Walk to End Epilepsy ~ Saturday, June 7th in Goleta

📍UC Santa Barbara – Pauley Track

⏰ 9:00am – 12:00pm

🪩 Join in on this community effort to raise awareness and funds for Epilepsy research. You can join in-person or online to help the Epilepsy Foundation reach their goal of $20,000. There is no fee to register, however when you raise $50 or more you’ll earn this year’s official 2025 Walk for Epilepsy – Santa Barbara event merchandise. Learn more here.

19th Annual Los Olivos Jazz & Olive Festival ~ Saturday, June 7th in Los Olivos

📍Lavinia Campbell Park

⏰ 1:00pm – 4:00pm

🪩 This annual event brings together what the Santa Ynez Valley is known for: great wine, food, and music. Taste wine from local wineries, listen to world-class, professional jazz musicians, and sample different olive-themed dishes prepared by local chefs. Learn more here.

SANTA MARIA – NORTH COUNTY

Photo: House of Pride & Equality

Santa Maria Pride 2025 ~ Sunday, June 8th in Santa Maria

📍Santa Maria Fairpark

⏰ 11:00am – 5:00pm

🪩 Join in on one of the first of many Pride events on the Central Coast! The theme for this year’s Santa Maria Pride is “Strength in Diversity!” The day will feature a vendor market, resource fair, food trucks, a beer garden, all-ages drag shows, and performances by Forever Green, Mestizo, PCPA, Santa Maria Civic Theatre, Revive Dance Co., and Sparx the DJ. Learn more here.

Flag Day Ceremony ~ Sunday, June 8th in Santa Maria

📍Santa Maria Elks Lodge

⏰ 2:00pm

🪩 The Santa Maria Elks Lodge is celebrating the adoption of the nation’s flag, dating all the way back to 1777. Officer and members will kick off the ceremony at 2:00pm, followed by a cold cut buffet lunch! Learn more here.

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

Photo: Charles Paddock Zoo

Ice Cream Zoo-fari ~ Saturday, June 7th in Atascadero

📍Charles Paddock Zoo

⏰ 5:00pm – 8:00pm

🪩 This family-favorite event lets you eat unlimited ice cream, live music, activities for all ages, and zoo animals! Tickets include full Zoo admission and unlimited sweet treats! Tickets are $16 for 13 years and up; $11 for 3 to 12 yrs., FREE to ages 2 and under. Learn more here.

Pridefest 2025: Paddling with Pride! ~ Saturday, June 7th in Morro Bay

📍Coleman Park Beach

⏰ 11:00am – 2:30pm

🪩 Celebrate Pride Month Central Coast-style with a paddle out! Wear your brightest colors, and paddle to make a community rainbow alongside Padding Paws’ most adorable, adoptable pups. The community is encouraged to bring their own paddle boards, kayaks, and life jackets – though a limited amount will be available to borrow. Learn more here.

SLO Blues Baseball – Fireworks Show ~ Friday, June 6th in San Luis Obispo

📍Sinsheimer Stadium

⏰ 6:00pm

🪩 Come cheer on the San Luis Obispo Blues as they take on the Menlo Park Legends this Friday! The season will run through July, and the team is bringing back many family-favorite events including post-game firework shows! Learn more here.

Family Free Day: Buzzing Beauties ~ Sunday, June 8th in San Luis Obispo

📍San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden

⏰ 10:00am – 2:00pm

🪩 Families can enjoy free entry to the botanical garden, and educational activities that focus on our local pollinators. Pack a picnic for the day and enjoy a stroll through the garden. Learn more here.

VENTURA COUNTY

Photo: Downtown Oxnard

7th Seaside Tattoo Show ~ June 6th – 8th in Ventura

📍Ventura County Fairgrounds

⏰ Check for Event Times

🪩 Over 100 licensed tattoo artists & piercers from across the U.S. will come together in Ventura for a three-day celebration of ink, art, and culture! You can get tattooed and/or pierced by some of the best. And for those looking for something a little permeant, henna art and tooth gems will also be available. Learn more here.

15th Annual Beachfront Run ~ Saturday, June 7th in Ventura

📍Ventura Pier

⏰ Check for Race Times

🪩 This weekend, you can take in the scenery of Ventura Beach by signing up for a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon! Each runner will receive a T-shirt and finishers medal! A variety of vendors and live music will also be onsite, and even if you’re not participating, come cheer on the winners during the awards ceremony. Learn more here.

Camarillo Pride Festival ~ Saturday, June 7th in Camarillo

📍Constitution Park

⏰ 12:00pm – 4:00pm

🪩 Camarillo’s 4th Annual Pride Festival will feature a family-friendly event with bounce houses, arts & crafts, music, games, and more! The event will act as a space for love, acceptance, and celebration for those part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Learn more here.

Oxnard Insect Festival ~ Saturday, June 7th in Oxnard

📍Plaza Park

⏰ 10:00am – 4:00pm

🪩 Lovers of all things that squirms, slithers, or buzzes will love this local festival! This is a fun opportunity for families to come together and enjoy insect demonstrations, live music, and food trucks! The festival will feature some special guests this year: crustaceans! Learn more here.

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Veit to run for state senate seat in 2026

KMIZ on June 5, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

State Rep. Rudy Veit (R-Wardsville) is intending to run for a state senate seat next year.  

Veit was elected to represent the 59th district in 2018 and will be at the limit of his terms in the House. He will seek the District 6 seat in the Missouri Senate in the Aug. 4, 2026, Republican primary. Veit confirmed his intention to run to ABC 17 News on Thursday.

The District 6 seat is currently held by Sen. Mike Bernskoetter (R-Jefferson City), who is also not able to run for the same seat because of term limits.

Veit won his most-recent reelection bid in November in an unopposed contest.

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