Puzzle swap set for sunday at East Hills Library

News-Press NOW on August 25, 2025

Praji Ghosh

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) —  The St. Joseph Public Library will host a jigsaw puzzle swap on Sunday, Aug. 24, at 1:30 p.m. at the East Hills Library. 

Guests are welcome to bring puzzles to exchange, but participation does not require a swap. The library will also have gently used puzzles available for purchase in the lobby. 

The event is free and open to all ages, offering the community a chance to enjoy an afternoon centered around puzzles and connection.  

“I like to do jigsaw puzzles and a lot of people do and when you’re done with it you don’t usually want to do it again so having a swap is a good way to refresh your collection while sharing,” Elizabeth Murray, programming librarian said.  

The puzzle swap has been a regular event at the library for the past four years, taking place every six months. Anyone is welcome to join—whether they want to keep a puzzle you find, bring it back for another swap, or simply browse the selection.  

“Puzzles are expensive, so its a good way to share puzzles without impacting your budget, and everything here is for free,” Murray said.    

The library hopes the event offers people a relaxing Sunday afternoon to spend with family while working through puzzles together.  

Another swap is already planned for February, when participants will also be able to donate puzzles to support the library’s annual book sale.  

“I have come to every single one of them. I have just always done puzzles and I was excited to do some trading because its fun to just swap it out and you don’t have to pay full prices,” Rochelle Greenwood, patron said.  

Greenwood also says she enjoys picking up puzzles to take home, calling it a great way to keep her mind active and focused.  

“I come to the library all the time and you can always walk out of here with some puzzles with you don’t already have one so just come out and do some swapping,” Greenwood said.  

Organizers say their goal is to bring the community together through a simple activity that sparks connection.  

They’re hoping each event will continue to grow with more puzzles to choose from and more people to trade with. 

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‘The furthest we’ve been’: Buchanan County eyes permit to dredge Lake Contrary by end of 2025

News-Press NOW on August 25, 2025

Cameron Montemayor

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Buchanan County officials hope to know by the end of this year if they can move forward on decades-long discussions of dredging Lake Contrary and restoring it as a recreational lake.

A permit to dredge Lake Contrary is expected to be approved or denied by the U.S. Corps of Engineers now that soil samples have been collected from the lakebed for testing, a lengthy process that concluded Aug. 17, according to Buchanan County Western District Commissioner Ron Hook.

“This is the furthest we’ve been in this process,” he said. “So if we can get something by the end of this year of whether we’re permitted to do it or not, that would really help.”

Engineering consultants with Terracon, a KC-based firm, were tasked with drilling 30 feet at dozens of locations across the lake to collect samples for the Corps of Engineers to evaluate.

Despite a breakdown of equipment that caused delays, Hook said engineers were able to submit more the double the requested amount to ensure results are conclusive one way or another.

“The (Corps) wanted 17 different plots throughout the lakebed to test the soil; every five feet, they pulled up soil samples,” Hook said. “We wanted to make sure that the whole lakebed was covered. So we did 34 of them.”

If a dredging permit is issued, Hook said the 300-acre lake will require multiple rounds of dredging in different locations over a three or four-year period simply due to its size.

“You can do about 100 acres of dredging per year,” he said.

At the same time, a timeline for a second round of weed spraying is expected to be determined in the coming months to prepare the lake for potential dredging, if authorized by the Corps.

The latest plans call for dredging the lake to approximately 8 feet, but 10 feet in certain areas could be possible.

“We just want it to be available for recreational boating, fishing, swimming, a recreational lake,” Hook said.

The latest development comes after more than a year of work that intensified last summer on restoring the once-great oxbow lake following decades of attempts by supporters and the county.

In its heyday in the early 1900s, Lake Contrary was an iconic recreational destination that featured a theme park with amusement rides, a casino, dance halls and sporting venues. At its peak, the lake was reportedly 10 miles long, quarter of a mile wide and 40 feet deep, large enough to support upwards of 100 boats.

As oxbow lakes naturally do over time, silt built-up from river flooding and creeks has lowered its depth exponentially despite decades of support from many residents, including financing costly underground water pumps.

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St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce hosts career fair

News-Press NOW on August 25, 2025

Carter Ostermiller

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — St. Joseph residents in search of a job are in luck.

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce will host a career fair from 3 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23, at Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center, located at 1201 N. Woodbine Road.

Businesses that have job openings and are chamber members are scheduled to be in attendance.

For more information about the event, visit jobs.saintjoseph.com

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Mail-in voter ballots in question

News-Press NOW on August 25, 2025

Carter Ostermiller

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — On Aug. 18, President Trump announced on Truth Social his plan to end mail-in ballots.

The process of voting by mail has been around since the 1980s and has gained more popularity ever since the COVID-19 pandemic. This popularity has been viewed with skepticism due to prior election results and the potential for fraud.

This push for the end of mail-in voting would also have a massive impact on key demographics such as elderly and disabled people.

A change would impact states like Oregon, Washington and Colorado, which are all mail-in voting states.

Some St. Joseph locals like Cindy Remelius feel that only some groups should be able to vote by mail.

“Maybe for specific groups. But other than that, I believe that people should come in person and present their ID to vote,” said Remelius.

On Truth Social, President Trump said he plans to sign an executive order for the 2026 midterms to end all mail-in ballots.

Trump’s Truth Social post calls to revoke mail-in ballots.

According to Article I, Section 4, Clause I of the United States Constitution:

“The Supreme Court has interpreted the Elections Clause expansively, enabling states ‘to provide a complete code for congressional elections, not only as to times and places, but in relation to notices, registration, supervision of voting, protection of voters, prevention of fraud and corrupt practices, counting of votes, duties of inspectors and canvassers, and making and publication of election returns’.”

Common reasons Americans use mail-in voting pertain to convenience, accessibility and health concerns.

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One person seriously injured in one-vehicle crash

News-Press NOW on August 25, 2025

News-Press NOW

ATCHISON CO, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — One person is seriously injured after a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado traveled off of I-29 on Saturday.

The crash occurred just after 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23, as a 53-year-old male driver was southbound on I-29 and traveled off the east side of the roadway, into a grass median.

The vehicle crossed the northbound lanes, impacted a fence, then a ditch and overturned onto its top.

The Silverado came to rest odd of the east side of I-29 at the 119.8 mile marker, nine miles north of Rockport.

The driver was transported by life flight to the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

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Santa Cruz nonprofit speaks out after Black Lives Matter banner stolen for third time

KION on August 25, 2025

Briana Mathaw

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) — A nonprofit in Santa Cruz is speaking out after the theft of its Black Lives Matter banner, again. The Walnut Avenue Family and Women’s Center says this is the third time the banner has been stolen, and they believe it’s no coincidence.

“This is where the flag was right here. You can see where the nails and the installments are placed. But obviously there’s no flag missing. And as you see, we have to put it up higher and higher every time that it’s ripped down or vandalized.” Amanda Coto said.

The center has long displayed the banner on the side of its building. It’s more than a sign, it represents support for the Black community. The repeated targeting of this specific banner, staff say, is a clear message.

“We did file a police report because it is vandalism and is trespassing and all of those things. So we did make a police report.” Amanda Coto said.

According to the center, the second theft came with a disturbing note.

“Three times that have been missing. The second time when it was stolen, the person actually left a note and it referenced something to the effect on White Lives Matter, too.” Amanda Coto said.

Other signs posted on the building were left untouched. It’s only the Black Lives Matter banner that continues to be removed.

“We have had graffiti and tags, but nothing specifically like this, where it’s an obvious there’s teeth attached. So, there’s a reason, you know, there’s an intentional reason that they’re doing this. And unfortunately, it’s a message of hate.” Amanda Coto said.

Now, the center is taking steps to prevent further vandalism.

“We have had discussions and because it’s the third time, we’re looking at some possible options for some security cameras just facing in particular that corner, because that is the only sign. We have multiple signs, banners around the building.” Amanda Coto said.

Community members have responded with support. One local activist says the crime goes far beyond the banner itself.

“It’s disheartening. At the end of the day, you can steal a banner, but you can’t steal belonging. You know, this isn’t just about a banner on the wall. It’s about a community right to be seen, to be protected and to be proud.” Ayo Banjo said.

Ayo Banjo, who has worked with the nonprofit in the past, says the fact that a group serving victims of domestic violence was targeted makes it even more painful.

“To target not just a nonprofit, but one that serves domestic violence in the disproportionate, serves Black residents.” Ayo Banjo said.

Banjo says this isn’t an isolated act.

“We’ve seen with the sign, with the street art, now with this situation going on, with the flier being missed you know, all of these things are revealing patterns.” Ayo Banjo said.

Despite the repeated thefts, the Walnut Avenue Family and Women’s Center isn’t backing down.

“Every time that banner returns, it’s a small act of resistance.” Ayo Banjo said.

“I think we’re just always going to maintain our stance. And just because people have any feelings about it, it’s not going to change our minds. If anything, as you notice, we just have to keep putting it up higher, making it a little less reachable for folks.” Amanda Coto said.

The center has already ordered another banner and have recieved a even small donation to help.

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Santa Cruz breaks ground on library and affordable housing

KION on August 25, 2025

Briana Mathaw

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) — The City of Santa Cruz is celebrating a major milestone as it breaks ground on a long-anticipated development that promises to bring more affordable housing to the area and create a vibrant cultural hub.

The Downtown Library Affordable Housing Project has been in the planning stages for years and will now rise from what was once a surface parking lot.

The project will include 124 apartment units designated as affordable housing, a modern public library, a childcare facility, and commercial space. In addition, a public parking garage will be built to support the downtown retail community.

“It will allow social workers, service workers, construction workers and workers of various industries in our community to live where they work, raise their families here and contribute to the rich tapestry of our community.”

Housing affordability is a key component of the development. Rents will vary depending on income eligibility, but are significantly lower than the local market rate.

“A one-bedroom, for example, will be as low as $975 a month up to a little over $2000,” Andrea Osgood said, Eden Housing said

The city also announced that the weekly Downtown Farmer’s Market, which currently takes place at the development site every Wednesday, will be relocated to a new permanent home elsewhere in downtown Santa Cruz.

The entire project is scheduled for completion by early 2028.

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Detectives, search and rescure teams continue homicide investigation of David Souza

KION on August 25, 2025

Sergio Berrueta

SAN BENITO COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) – The search for a missing San Juan Bautista man who has not been seen for over a month.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating the disappearance as a homicide. Investigators say 60-year-old David Souza was last seen on July 25th.

Several search warrants have been served, with deputies are now waiting for responses from multiple companies.

Search and rescue teams have also been combing the county. 

The sheriff’s office is receiving lots of tips and information, adding that they continue to pursue every lead.

Ongoing search for the disappearance of David Souza

The San Benito County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that they suspect malicious activity leading to the disappearance of 60-year-old David Souza from July 25.

They said that they are treating the case as “more than a missing persons case.”

According to the sheriff’s office, deputies have written and served numerous search warrants and are currently waiting for responses from multiple companies.

San Benito County Search & Rescue along with the Department of Justice, California Office of Emergency Services and other agencies, are continuing to try and locate Souza as well as find answers surrounding his disappearance.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more details become available.

Missing San Benito County man now officially being investigated as homicide; Sheriff’s Office

SAN BENITO COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) – The San Benito County Sheriff’s Office said that the disappearance of 60-year-old David Souza is now officially being investigated as a homicide case.

Back at the end of July, deputies say that the case was already “suspicious” with certain evidence leading officials to believe there was foul play.

Now, nearly one month later, deputies have said that they are treating the case as a homicide.

This is a developing story and more details will be added as they are released.

Missing person in San Benito County reported, considered ‘suspicious’

SAN BENITO COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) – A man is reported missing in San Benito County after last being seen on July 25.

60-year-old David Souza has been missing since last Friday, according to the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office.

His disappearance is being considered suspicious, with the detective currently investigating.

Souza is described as being 5 feet, 9 inches in height, slender build, and with a bald head.

Those with information on Souza’s disappearance or his whereabouts are asked to call 831-901-5061.

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LAGUNA SECA SEASON PASS: F1, IROC headline 2025 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

KION on August 25, 2025

Maxwell Glenn

SALINAS, Calif. (KION) – Featuring over 400 cars in 14 race groups, the 2025 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion brought four days of high-octane action to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.

The highly anticipated event celebrated 75 years of Formula 1, bringing together more than 30 iconic F1 cars in a special display in the paddock.

Those cars also took center stage on track, highlighting a historic weekend at Laguna Seca. In addition to F1, the IROC Series became one of the most popular groups at the Reunion.

Bringing together NASCAR, IndyCar, and F1 legends, IROC’s return to Laguna Seca also marked the first time all seven generations of IROC cars were displayed together.

Sports Director Maxwell Glenn talks with racing legends and gives a first-hand look at what it’s like to ride on a superbike in Laguna Seca Season Pass.

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One woman dead in fiery vehicle crash on Highway 17

KION on August 25, 2025

Sergio Berrueta

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) – One woman was killed in a vehicle fire after an accident on Highway 17.

According to the California Highway Patrol, an unknown woman was driving their sedan northbound on Highway 17 north of Jarvis Road before colliding with the center median.

The sedan then continued traveling before colliding with a metal guardrail on the east shoulder of Highway 17. Upon crashing, the sedan caught fire, with the driver sustaining major injuries.

She was pronounced dead at the scene despite life-saving procedures.

Highway 17 was closed after the vehicle fire had spread into the wildland.

According to CAL FIRE CZU, forward progress was stopped at 11:50 a.m.

The wildland fire was 50 by 50 feet, with northbound and southbound lanes closed. All lanes have since been reopened.

CHP is currently investigating the cause of the crash. It is unknown if alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash.

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