We know about El Paso County’s project on South Academy Bouevard. What about the Colorado Springs project there that started in 2023?

KRDO on July 4, 2025

Scott Harrison

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) — Work resumes this fall on the second phase of the city’s $62 million project to improve South Academy Boulevard; some prep work was done, but the bulk of that project has yet to start.

The first phase, which began in early 2023 and concluded last fall, upgraded a section of approximately three-quarters of a mile between Bijou Street and Airport Road.

Phase two will cover a longer segment — two miles — between Fountain Boulevard and Jet Wing Drive, which is north of a similar project by El Paso County between Milton E. Proby Parkway and Interstate 25.

The overall city project is improving utility lines, drainage, and traffic and pedestrian safety along the busy corridor, as well as repaving the boulevard.

Several viewers have asked KRDO 13’s The Road Warrior why construction on the city’s second phase hasn’t happened yet, during the peak season for road construction projects.

Ryan Phipps, the city’s capital improvements manager, said that planning work is happening behind the scenes to avoid the negative impacts of the first phase.

During that phase, some merchants said that their sales declined by 50% because it was so difficult for them, their customers, and traffic to get in and out of the construction zone.

“The plan has been really just to get everything laid out so that we can meet the expectations — as best as possible — for that community,” he explained. “Prioritizing that, making sure that we’ve incorporated that in the approach to procuring a contractor, our design plan, things of that nature.”

To that end, the city plans to hold a public open house in September — a month before construction resumes — to inform citizens about aspects of the project, particularly access into and out of the construction zone.

“I expect that we’re going to see a lot of different phasing of the construction,” Phipps said. “Rather than taking the entire two-mile stretch of road, we’ll be asking our contractor to have a far more strategic plan for the work that they are immediately working on.”

Crews may face groundwater and soil issues that slowed progress on the first phase.

The improvement projects are upgrading infrastructure that dates back to the 1950s and 1960s.

Phipps said that the project’s contractor is responsible for pothole repairs in the construction zone.

The city and county’s projects on South Academy are scheduled for completion next year.

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Making a Difference: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon harbors safe, positive relationships through mentoring

KTVZ on July 4, 2025

Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — For this month’s ‘21 Cares for Kids: Making a Difference’ spotlight, we’re highlighting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon—a youth mentoring network solely supported by donors and volunteers.

“The first thing we did is go climbing at the Bend Rock Gym,” said Ryan Bukstein, a Big Brother.

Ryan and Maddox have a lot of fun together.

Ryan and Maddox

“I had never climbed before and so that was really cool for me because it was a little scary. And (Maddox) had climbed,” Ryan said. “He’s a really talented climber, loves it, so he got to help me learn to climb.” 

Their relationship blossomed two years ago when Ryan decided he wanted to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon (BBBSCO).

“My wife and I decided we weren’t going to have kids, and I wanted kids to be a part of my life. So I was looking into the options there. And I had heard about Big Brothers Big Sisters, so I just hit them up and they connected me,” Ryan said. “Actually, I told them that I really wanted a younger kid, and so that opened me up to a lot more options. And (Maddox) was the first person I met with. I went to his house, and immediately he was like, ‘Let’s go ride bikes!’ And they were like, ‘No, we have to do this match process first.’ But he was in it from the start. So it was really cool, we hit it off.”

Ryan Bukstein

Since then, it’s been nothing but good times and lasting memories—something many Central Oregon kids are able to experience through BBBSCO. 

“We serve over 220 kids each year through Deschutes, Jefferson and Crook counties, kids from all communities from La Pine and Madras,” said Jenn Davis, the program director.

Jenn Davis

Jenn gets to see the program’s impact first-hand. 

“Mentoring has proven that it has an impact on our economy. Kids who have a stable mentor in their life are more likely to graduate high school and go on to secondary education,” Jenn said. “They’re more likely to make two-thirds greater income over their lifetime than their non-mentored peers, and they close the economic gap. They’re more likely to have the income closer to their mentors and their families. It really improves our economy.”

Big and Little sisters

And now, in a space that’s brand new, the opportunities are endless. 

“Big Brothers Big Sisters moved on to the J Bar J community campus back in February. We’re so grateful to have this space,” Jenn said. “We have 20 acres for our kids to come out and enjoy our therapeutic horse program. It’s a space for them to spend time with their mentors. They can cook and bake and do arts and crafts. We started a tutoring program this summer. Lots of activities for them to engage in a safe place.”

Engaging activities in a safe place—something Ryan says all Central Oregonians can take part in with just a little free time and a lot of heart. 

“So many people in Bend have the time to be a part of this. And I think here in Central Oregon, we could be an example for other areas, leading the charge,” Ryan said. “Reach out, come out here.”

Making a Difference: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon harbors safe, positive relationships through mentoring

If you’re interested in becoming a mentor with BBBSCO, or if you have a child you think would benefit from having a mentor, click here for more information.

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All hands on deck for the City of Columbia’s Fire in the Sky multi-page safety plan

KMIZ on July 4, 2025

Olivia Hayes

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The city of Columbia is all hands of deck for its Fourth of July festivities. The city’s multi-page plan includes protocols for situations like medical emergencies, fire and public disturbances.

In the event of a major emergency Columbia Fire Department and the Columbia Police Department will take control and swiftly direct people out of the impacted area. CFD will take the lease on any major medical emergencies, but first aid kits will also be on site at the information tent for basic first aid.

In the event of a fire, staff will clear people away from the flames and alert first responders. If the event is cancelled due to fire, volunteers will be tasked with telling attendees and directing them towards a safe eit.

Staff and volunteers will assist with crowd control in the park. Volunteers working in the parking lots of the road closures will be wearing safety vests.

CPD will also be managing the street closures on Old Highway 63 and East Walnut street. Other closures include the Hinkson Creek Trail at 8:30 Friday night.

Citadel Security also monitored the firework zone overnight from 12 p.m. July 3 to 6 a.m.July 4 to make sure the fireworks are as safe and secure as possible.

The event will kick off at 6:30 p.m. at Stephens Lake Park. The firework show will finish the night off starting at 9:15 p.m. 597 firework shells will be used during the firework show with 670 shots expected from the shells.

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One dead, another injured in “pedestrian accident” according to Sunland Park officials

KVIA on July 4, 2025

Carter Diggs

SUNLAND PARK, New Mexico (KVIA) — One person is dead and another is in the hospital with serious injuries after an incident Sunland Park officials are calling a “pedestrian accident.” It happened near the intersection of Sunland Park Dr. and Appaloosa Dr. near the Racetrack and Casino.

ABC-7 is working to learn exactly what happened. We will continue to update this article as we learn more information.

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Two injured in Country Club crash

News-Press NOW on July 4, 2025

News-Press NOW

COUNTRY CLUB, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Two people were injured in a Country Club, Missouri crash Thursday night.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the accident occurred around 6:47 p.m. at the intersection of Southbound Business 29 and US-59 in Country Club.

A 31-year-old St. Joseph woman driving east on 59 failed to stop at a stop sign, hitting a car occupied by two people from Mound City, Missouri — a 32-year-old man and 34-year-old woman.

The Mound City man, who was driving, suffered serious injuries, and the woman riding with him moderate injuries.

First responders took both to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.

The St. Joseph woman avoided injury.

Troopers report everyone involved was wearing a seatbelt.

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Cate coach Ben Soto receives Hall of Fame honor from CBCA

KEYT on July 4, 2025

Mike Klan

CARPINTERIA, Calif. – Longtime Cate High School coach Ben Soto was honored by the California Baseball Coaches Association with a Hall of Fame Award.

He was commended for his success and service to California high school baseball.

Soto has led the Rams baseball team in Carpinteria for 32 years and has won 17 league titles.

“I am honored for this acknowledgement and a heartfelt thanks to God for putting me on this coaching path that I am on,” began Soto.

“To all the coaches ( to many to name ) who I have coached with that have influenced me in a positive way, ( Mr. Pannizion and  Mr Warren to lead that list ) and finally to all my players who gave to me a whole lot more than I gave to them ! “

Ben Soto is also the head coach of the Rams football team for the past 21 years.

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Pacific Grove gets updated tennis and pickleball courts

KION on July 4, 2025

Mickey Adams

PACIFIC GROVE, Calif. (KION-TV) — New tennis court renovations have been completed in Pacific Grove this week.

The Morris Dil Courts on Fountain Avenue and 14th Street getting a makeover.

Soundproof fencing was already added earlier this year and now resurfacing and restriping efforts have been completed, turning the court closest to Fountain Avenue a dedicated pickleball space while the next court over was restored for tennis.

The improved courts made possible through the city’s Capital Improvement Plan.

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Foresters blanked by Barons

KEYT on July 4, 2025

Mike Klan

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The ‘Sters fought hard, but the momentum never quite swung their way, with several close calls and almost-runs that just didn’t pan out. The Foresters fell to the Academy Barons; a final score of 3-0.

Ka’imi Kahalekai set the tone early on the mound, picking off a runner at first in the opening, and striking out the “beer batter” to earn all adult fans a coupon for free beer. Terrence Kiel sparked early offensive action with a leadoff single and stolen base, but the Foresters couldn’t cash in, leaving the game scoreless after one.

The Barons opened the scoring in the third inning with a Jarrett Nielson triple, followed by an RBI single from Chip Mertz. The inning ended with a defensive gem by Brady Dallimore, who gunned down Mertz at the plate to prevent further damage.

The Foresters battled in the bottom of the third, but their momentum stalled when Easton Rulli was tagged out at home to end the inning. Despite continued effort at the plate and solid pitching, including a couple of clutch double plays, the Foresters trailed 1-0 heading into the fifth.

Kahalekai kept dealing, picking up his fifth strikeout in the fifth inning, but the Barons managed to tack on another run, stretching their lead to 2-0. The game stayed tight, with both teams battling hard and keeping scoring chances limited.

Andrew Guardino was the first reliever out of the pen and made an immediate impact, striking out three batters looking in a dominant frame, bringing much-needed energy into the Foresters’ dugout as the offense worked to rally. In the bottom half, Dallimore got on base and stole second, but it wasn’t enough.

Opposing pitcher Franky Lopez of the Barons delivered a dominant performance. Lopez tossed 6 shutout innings, surrendering just 5 hits and 3 walks while striking out 8 Foresters. 

The Foresters continued to give their all, but the Barons struck again in the sixth, and the ‘Sters’ offense stalled, leaving the score at 3-0 going into the seventh.

Momentum picked up in the seventh as Kiel and Caden Miller singled, driving Kiel to third with Farr up to bat. Farr walked to load the bases, but the light was snuffed out once again, and the Foresters couldn’t push a run across. The eighth followed a similar pattern. 

Tag Andrews was brought in to pitch the final inning for the ‘Sters in a last push to shift the energy. He held the Barons scoreless in the top of the ninth, giving the Foresters one final shot to rally. Despite a determined effort at the plate, the Foresters couldn’t string together the hits they needed, and the game closed with a 3-0 loss at home.

The Foresters look to bounce back tomorrow at 4:30 PM at Eddie Mathews Field as they take on the California Tigers in an exciting 4th of July matchup. Bring your Foresters pride, and your American spirit!

(Article courtesy of the Foresters Olivia Hovorka & Marshall Fiorita).

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Watsonville welcomes Second Saturdays to Main Street July 12

KION on July 4, 2025

Mickey Adams

WATSONVILLE, Calif. (KION-TV) — A coalition of Santa Cruz County art groups are putting together a celebration of art and performance every month, calling it Watsonville Second Saturdays.

The event will showcase local talent with galleries, performances, interactive activities as well as an open air Taiko workshop.

The event taking place every second Saturday of each month until the end of the year.

The first Second Saturday is happening on July 12 from 1 until 4 p.m. on Watsonville’s Main Street and surrounding blocks.

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Compass Church’s Fireworks Extravaganza anticipating record turnout

KION on July 4, 2025

jose.romo

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) — Teams are working on getting the final details squared away for the largest fireworks display in Monterey County.

Compass Church is getting ready to fill the Salinas Sports Complex seats for Friday’s 4th of July Celebrate America Firework Extravaganza. 

“They love the flyover. We have four biplanes this year. We have the parachute coming in with the American flag. We’ve got some beautiful patriotic music, a wonderful choir,” says Todd Anderson, senior pastor at compass church.

He says they are excited to see this event take form for the second year under their leadership. Anderson explains, it all came about through connections within the church.

“One of the families in our church owns the fireworks company,” says Anderson, who had been looking for an event to celebrate July 4th. “So when I discovered they’re a part of compass church, i said, can you guys pull one off here, and they said, I think we can do that.” 

He adds that they hope to provide a safe space for the community to enjoy fireworks. 

“That’s one of the drivers of this is to provide a safe, free, family-friendly event on the 4th of July.” Anderson adds, “I grew up in a family where we probably shot a few bottle rockets off here and there, but you hear the stories. It’s not always safe to do it that way.

“The most dangerous part does come with the loading and the operating of the fireworks themselves.”

David, who works as the pyrotechnic operator for the event, says security teams have been watering the grounds near the fireworks show to ensure a safe zone.

“As of right now, we’re setting up our fireworks. We’re specifically building up our mortars and our racks, inspecting all of our product for defects, making sure all our product is properly wired and secured,” he adds. 

They have also hired additional security to patrol the area. Organizers want to make sure people know they should arrive early to secure their seats. 

“Yeah, last year we saw 14,000 people came out to this,” says Anderson. He adds that city and officials at the rodeo grounds say they will likely have to cap attendance. “They’re expecting a maximum crowd of 16,000. So, a record crowd. But I have to let the people know that once we hit 16,000, we’ve got to shut the gates.”

Gates to the festival will open at 3 pm, with the patriotic service set to kick off at 7 pm. 

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