Galilee Center hosts annual backpack giveaway to support students

KESQ on August 8, 2025

Shay Lawson

MECCA, Calif. (KESQ)  – Galilee Center helped families gear up for the school year with its annual Backpack Distribution Giveaway on Thursday at the center’s location in Mecca.

Organizers said more than 900 backpacks were handed out.

Each backpack includes age-appropriate items like notebooks, pencils, crayons, glue sticks and folders.

Organizers said Bighorn Golf Club provided a grant that’s helping the nonprofit distribute hundreds of backpacks.

“This event is more than just handing out backpacks,” Claudia Castorena, co-founder of Galilee Center said.  “It’s a chance to show the children in our community that we believe in them and are here to support their education.”

To sign up or make a monetary donation, visit www.galileecenter.org or call 760-396-9100.

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Fence Goes Up Around Old Mission in Santa Barbara for Six-Month Project

KEYT on August 8, 2025

John Palminteri

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Old Mission in Santa Barbara will have a big green fence around the entrance for about the next six months.

The fence marks off an area for an access project for those who are mobility challenged.

It went up right after Old Spanish Days that took place last week. That event involves the mission. There were both the traditional Fiesta Pequena performance which was televised and a special Mass.

The work will take place in several areas. The steps will be improved and the flat surface at the mission doors will be cleaned up and redone. The biggest part of the project is a ramp on the right side of the entrance that will blend in with the rock design.

Fundraising for the project is taking place while the work is underway and a $150,000 matching grant is part of that effort towards the $1.1-million total budget. About 60 percent of the funds have come in.

If the work is done ahead of schedule it will be open for Christmas.

For now to enter the church there is a side door.

Donations for the project can be made here.

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Dramatic Rexburg Crash: Motorhome hit by train; No injuries

KIFI on August 8, 2025

Ariel Jensen

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI) — A motorhome towing a passenger car was struck by a train in Rexburg this afternoon, but remarkably, no one was hurt, according to Rexburg Police.

The collision happened at 4:23 p.m. at the intersection of 5th West and Yellowstone. Rexburg Assistant Police Chief Gary Hagen confirmed that no one was injured despite the crash. Video captured by a local business, 0500 Mechanics, shows the intense moment when the train hits the back of the motorhome.

The scene has since been cleared by the Rexburg Police Department. This is a developing story, and we will share new details as they are released.

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Fat Daddy’s Burger and Grill has been granted a special use permit

KYMA on August 8, 2025

Eduardo Morales

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Fat Daddy’s Burger and Grill will remain open for the next 15 years because of a special use permit.

However, the permit comes with some rules, such as building a seven foot block wall around the facility, live music ending at 7 p.m., and getting some things up to ADA compliance.

Jacob Fletcher, the owner’s son, is happy he can continue his father’s legacy.

“I think he would be happy, he’d be smiling down, I think he is today, today’s his birthday too so, our first year without him but he’d be stoked,” says Fletcher.

While many people in favor of the business staying open, some complained about the noise.

However, with the special use permit now in place, Yuma County Board of Supervisors Darren Simmons is hopeful everyone can be at peace.

“It allows them to stay open and have their music, and like I said a lot people like their music, but it also hopefully, with the walls and stuff it kind of answers the question for the people that live around it as far as keeping the noise down in their area,” Simmons said.

Larry White, a longtime customer and best friend of the late owner, is happy to see the business continue.

“This is the best place in town, you know the music is good, the food’s excellent, it’s just a nice place to be and associate with other people,” White says.

Fletcher would also like to share a message of gratitude to the community, supervisor Simmons, and even some of their competitors who showed them support.

“Just all our loyal people that we have you know out here in the Foothills that have made this possible, 279 signatures came through on a ballet to keep this place open, that was done by the Eagle’s Club so everyone you know came together,” said Fletcher.

If you would like to donate to the restaurant as they build the wall, you can click the link HERE.

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No injuries reported in accidental house fire in Jefferson City

KMIZ on August 8, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

No injuries were reported after a house caught fire Thursday afternoon in the 2400 block of Bluebird Drive in Jefferson City, according to a press release from the Jefferson City Fire Department.

JCFD wrote the fire was ruled accidental. Crews were called at 3:26 p.m. and firefighters ended up finding a fire in a basement closet, the release says.

Minor smoke damage was reported on all levels of the home, the release says.

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Teacher offers tips for back-to-school sanity

KIFI on August 8, 2025

Ariel Jensen

REXBURG, Idaho (KIFI)– Chances for Southeast Idaho parents to hit the snooze button are about to come to an end as the school bells are about to begin. August is a stressful time for some parents with school picking back up in just a few weeks.

A local teacher is offering tips to parents on how they can get ready for the school year.

“Kids really thrive on a regular schedule. So start getting that bedtime back in place and getting up on time and eating a regular meal to get them eased back in,” said Kristi Lords, a 2nd-grade teacher for the Madison School District.

While the weeks will be spent back in the classroom, the summer fun doesn’t have to end. 

“This isn’t the end of their life. We still have a couple of months of nice weather here in Idaho, and so this is something to look forward to as they’re going to school all week,” said Lords.

Teacher Mrs. Lords encourages parents to make fun weekend plans so their children know the future is still bright.

“It gives them something to look forward to as they get back into those first few weeks of school,” said Lords.

With kids home for the summer, most parents are probably familiar with the scene of a chaotic household. Once parents get ready for the school year and everything is back in order, they are reminded to give a big focus on their little ones.

“I think it’s important to sit down and talk with your kids about how they are feeling about this year,” said Lord. “Sometimes I’m so worried about how I’m feeling, I forget, hey, they’re going into a new classroom. They’re going in with new teachers and they’re going to have some concerns. And it’s important not to drop that ball.”   

Lords says it’s important to remember that going back to school can be an exciting time.

“Take a breath, alleviate anxiety, and try to find something peaceful to think about instead of getting worked up. Just enjoy the excitement and the fun of a new session of learning.”

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Old Mill District, Hayden Homes Aphitheater and Commute Options partner in ‘August Car-Free Commute Challenge’

KTVZ on August 8, 2025

Barney Lerten

(Adding video from Monday’s broadcast)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – World-class shows at Hayden Homes Amphitheater, walking along the river trail, patio happy hours, and retail therapy are highlights of the Bend Summer season. Commute Options said Thursday it’s thrilled to announce a new partnership with the Hayden Homes Amphitheater and the Old Mill District for the “August Car-Free Commute Challenge.” 

The “August Car-Free Commute Challenge” is an initiative designed to encourage concert attendees and folks visiting the district to choose sustainable transportation methods throughout the entire month of August, according to a news release that continues in full below:

Participants simply need to create an account on Get There Oregon (www.getthereoregon.org) and log their car-free commutes – whether they walk, bike, scoot, roll, or ride the bus – to and from any concert at Hayden Homes Amphitheater or visit to the Old Mill District. By logging their trips, they are automatically entered into a prize draw, with the grand prize being a $200 Old Mill District gift bundle. 

The goal of the program is to reduce single-occupancy vehicles, ease congestion, and promote a healthier, more sustainable Bend. This effort aligns with the Old Mill District’s sustainability goals and Commute Options’ vision for accessible, convenient transportation options to lessen single-occupancy commutes in the community.  

By participating in car-free travel, concert-goers and visitors can ease traffic backups and contribute to a more sustainable, more enjoyable experience in Bend. 

Amanda Bird-Zimmerman, Assistant Marketing Director and Community Engagement Lead with the Old Mill District and Hayden Homes Amphitheater, states, “We are thrilled to partner with Commute Options to encourage not only more sustainable transportation choices, but also to get folks outside to experience a different perspective of this gorgeous place we call home. Whether folks take one or 30+ alternative commute trips this month, any amount makes a difference. And, you can’t win if you don’t play, right? See you out there!” 

Join the August Car-Free Commute Challenge! 

Everyone visiting the Old Mill District or attending concerts at Hayden Homes Amphitheater this August is encouraged to participate. It’s free and easy to get signed up. 

Here’s how to participate: 

Make an account on Get There Oregon: Simply visit www.getthereoregon.org or scan the provided QR code at the venue. 

Log your sustainable commute: Record your travel to/from using methods such as: 

Walking 

Biking 

Scooting/Rolling 

Riding the Bus 

Be automatically entered into the prize draw!  

Details on The Grand Prize: One lucky participant will win a $200 Old Mill District gift bundle, which includes a $100 Old Mill District Gift Card (usable towards concert tickets, shopping, and dining), movie tickets, Old Mill District swag, and more! 

“The August Car-Free Commute Challenge provides a fun and rewarding way for concertgoers to make a positive impact on our community,” said Brian Potwin from Commute Options. “Collaboration is key to sustainable change. We’re incredibly proud to team up with Hayden Homes Amphitheater and the Old Mill District to offer a fun, rewarding way for everyone to contribute to a less congested Bend.” 

Join Commute Options, Hayden Homes Amphitheater, and the Old Mill District in making a positive impact this August! When you choose a car-free commute, you could win big. Learn more at https://www.commuteoptions.org/hayden-holmes-car-free-commute-challenge/  

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Man charged after allegedly stealing over $100K in medical supplies from hospital

KESQ on August 7, 2025

Jesus Reyes

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ) – A San Jacinto man was arrested on suspicion of dressing up as staff at a local hospital to steal medical supplies on three separate occasions.

Deputies were called to Eisenhower Health on Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage on July 9 regarding a theft of medical equipment, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RSO).

RSO officials said that in three separate incidents in June and July 2025, the suspect stole more than $100,000 worth of surgical equipment and skin grafts, wearing blue scrubs and a surgical mask to blend in with hospital personnel and avoid detection as he gained access to restricted areas of the facility.

During the investigation, deputies were able to identify the suspect as Jason Brauner, 47, of San Jacinto.

Brauner was found on Wednesday while traveling southbound toward San Diego. Deputies from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office detained Brauner and searched his vehicle, where stolen medical equipment and stolen hospital apparel was located.

A search warrant was served at Brauner’s home that same day, where authorities recovered additional stolen medical supplies valued between $10,000 and $25,000.

Brauner was booked into the John Benoit Detention Center. His charges include grand theft, commercial burglary, and possession of stolen property. He is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday at the Larson Justice Center.

RSO revealed that the suspect was found to be connected to similar thefts at hospitals in Loma Linda and Newport Beach. Other agencies are currently in the process of filing additional charges related to those incidents.

There may also be additional victims.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact Deputy Marco Castaneda at the Palm Desert Sheriff’s Station at (760) 836–1600.

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Felon charged with stealing e-bike while armed in Rancho Mirage

KESQ on August 7, 2025

City News Service

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) – A felon accused of stealing an e-bicycle in Rancho Mirage and fleeing from sheriff’s deputies while armed was charged today with burglary and other offenses, while a Coachella woman was charged with conspiring with him.

Ruben Murillo Galindo Jr. and Esther Cordova Montoya, both 42, were arrested last month following a Riverside County Sheriff’s Department investigation that began in early June.

Both Galindo and Montoya were charged with the felony burglary count, but Galindo alone was charged with being a felon in possession of a loaded firearm, resisting arrest and a sentence-enhancing allegation of perpetrating a crime while on bail. Montoya alone was charged with parole violations.

Galindo pleaded not guilty Thursday during an arraignment before Superior Court Judge Arthur Hester, who scheduled a felony settlement conference for Aug. 18 at the Larson Justice Center in Indio. The defendant is being held in lieu of $500,000 bail at the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta.

Montoya, who is free on a $35,000 bond, is slated for arraignment on Sept. 8.  

According to sheriff’s Sgt. James Mills, on the morning of June 7, Galindo allegedly broke into a residence on Via Del Rossi in Rancho Mirage, removed the owner’s e-bike and fled, allegedly with Montoya’s help.

Security surveillance video cameras at the property recorded the theft from beginning to end, Mills alleged.   

He said Burglary Suppression Team investigators identified Montoya first, and she was taken into custody without incident after a search warrant was served at her residence on July 25 in the 51400 block of Ponderosa Drive. She posted bond within a couple of days and was released from jail.

Galindo was identified as the alleged burglar less than a week later, and he was tracked down in the area of Seventh Street and Orchard Avenue in Coachella on July 31.

Mills said when deputies confronted him, he tried to flee on a bike, discarding a “bag containing a loaded firearm and ammunition” in the process.

Deputies took him into custody without further incident moments later.   

Details on the defendants’ prior convictions were not available.

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Salinas Police investigating fraudulent scooter scheme

KION on August 7, 2025

Sergio Berrueta

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) – The Salinas Police Department is investigating a fraud scheme targeting the community through a fake scooter company.

According to Salinas Police, a company called the “Lightning Shared Scooter Company” has falsely promised people they could invest their own money into electric scooters and earn monthly payments.

However, the victims invested thousands of dollars, up to $50,000, and never saw any return on investment. Salinas PD has contacted 45 victims, who have lost a combined total of $250,000.

Salinas PD is telling residents to be skeptical of “too good to be true,” research companies before investing, and never send money to someone you’ve never met in person.

If anyone has been a victim or has been contacted, call Salinas Police at 831-758-7321.

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