Spare Change, Big Hearts: Santa Barbara Shoppers Help Hospice This Holiday

KEYT on October 17, 2025

Patricia Martellotti

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – At the checkout counter, kindness is ringing up fast this holiday season. Customers at one of the city’s most beloved family-owned stores are rounding up their purchases to support Hospice of Santa Barbara, helping provide grief counseling and comfort to families in need.

For decades, the Home Improvement Center has been a cornerstone of the community – now, the store is proving that even spare change can make a big difference.

“We’ve been here for decades, and our customers are like family. Helping hospice just comes from the heart,” said a longtime employee.

Shoppers say giving back is easy and rewarding. “It’s so simple to round up a few cents — and it feels good knowing it’s helping someone,” one customer said.

“It’s incredible to watch people open their hearts — one checkout at a time,” added another customer.

Hospice of Santa Barbara reports that all funds raised through the initiative go directly to supporting those in need, especially during the holiday season when grief can feel especially heavy. “This generosity helps us reach people who might otherwise face loss alone,” said a hospice representative.

From the bustling aisles of the Home Improvement Center to families across Santa Barbara, every small contribution is turning spare change into hope.

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Idaho Women’s Expo kicks off at the Mountain America Center

KIFI on October 17, 2025

News Team

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The annual Women’s Expo is back, transforming the Mountain America Center into a vibrant hub of inspiration, connection, and commerce specifically for the ladies of Southeast Idaho. The two-day event begins today, Friday, October 17, and runs through Saturday, October 18.

Dozens of local businesses and vendors are set to showcase products and services. This year’s Expo also coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and businesses like Steele Lake Specialty say their focus will be on Women’s Health and awareness.

“It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so we’re going to be focusing on that because we take care of a lot of breast cancer patients,” explained Mikki Ingle of Steele Lake Specialty. The multi-specialty practice—which specializes in routine general surgery, podiatry, and cosmetic surgery—is using its booth to promote awareness and proactive health.

The Expo is also rewarding its early visitors. The first 250 women through the door will receive a special goodie bag and a “passport” that will allow them to enter into a drawing for a variety of raffle prizes.

Ingle gave a sneak peek at some of the items her practice is contributing: “I know from our practice, we’re bringing slippers, a blanket, a nice body wash. All the things you can do to relax.”

The Expo is open Friday, October 17, from Noon to 6 p.m., and Saturday, October 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information on tickets and pricing, click HERE.

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Silver Cliff woman suing former coroner Brian Cotter in small claims court

KRDO on October 17, 2025

Celeste Springer

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) — A Silver Cliff woman is suing Brian Cotter in small claims court, according to records obtained by 13 Investigates.

The lawsuit is for $3,105, plus court costs. The woman says she is suing because she prepaid for cremation services and wants her money back.

Deborah ‘Debby’ Paladay tells 13 Investigates her family had trusted Davis Mortuary for 48 years.

Paladay explained that they used the Cotters’ services for her mother, father, brother, previous husbands, and daughter. She described all of her family members as the most outstanding people, while noting that they deserve better.

“We had trusted Davis Mortuary for so long. I also just went ahead and did pre-paid cremation,” explained Debby Paladay.

Paladay said that she wants her money back, so the financial burden doesn’t fall on her kids.

“I’ve got to get that money back or my kids are going to be stuck with that expense whenever I go,” shared Paladay. “When this all happened, I just felt like that trust was so violated. And, I wanted to get my 3,000 back because I’m retired. I don’t have a ton of money.”

She’s encouraging others to fight for their money back.

“Things like this shouldn’t have ever happened. And because they did, people got to step up and stand up for themselves,” stated Paladay.

We also reached out to the Division of Insurance (DOI) to see what they’d recommend for other families who may be in a similar situation.

DOI has initiated an inquiry that will assess potential impacts to pre-need funeral contracts that may be related to the Davis Mortuary, and we are encouraging Coloradans to submit requests for assistance related to pre-need funeral contracts through a form on our website: https://doi.colorado.gov/information-regarding-the-davis-mortuary

At this time, DOI’s investigation is ongoing, and we are not able to share more information as ongoing investigations are confidential.

-A Division of Insurance spokesperson

Cotter is at the center of a Pueblo County controversy and investigation. He was the Pueblo County coroner, but also owned his own funeral home business.

Back in August, inspectors alleged that they noted a smell of decomposition in his funeral home, Davis Mortuary. They claimed that there was a door hidden behind a display, and when they removed it, they allegedly found remains in various states of decomposition.

The Colorado Bureau of Investigations (CBI) said that there were 24 bodies found, and it’s believed that they were all brought to the funeral home between 2010 and 2012. As of the last update from the CBI in early October, six of the bodies have been identified.

As of this publication, no criminal charges have been filed against Brian Cotter, or funeral home co-owner Chris Cotter. However, Brian Cotter did step down from his position as county coroner.

The CBI says that they want to identify all of the bodies before the district attorney’s office evaluates potential charges.

“As we’ve indicated from the very beginning, this is a slow and tedious process,” said District Attorney Kala Beauvais on Oct. 1. “I am determined to get this case right. The filing of charges will be done right the first time.”

To read all of our updates on the Davis Mortuary case, click here.

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Stories that inspire: Local restaurant owner makes his dreams come true

KESQ on October 17, 2025

María García

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) — Eduardo Brambila, born and raised in Guadalajara, Jalisco, came to the Coachella Valley to support his family. Throughout the years, he managed to become the owner of his own restaurant, Flor de Jalisco.

His passion for cooking goes back to one of the many jobs he had upon arriving to the United States. At just 15 years old, he learned the value of hard work, his first job was working in agriculture.

“When I came here, I started to work in the fields. After that, I went into construction, I was inspired to find a better place for my family and I,” said Brambila.

Honoring his mother, as well as a desire to better himself and become an inspiration for migrants, led him into opening his own restaurant, which opened back in 2016.

“The name of the restaurant is an honor to my mother, she passed away in 2000 due to heart problems. She always told me to work hard, so this is an honor to her,” said Brambila.

Brambila says he’s grateful for his employees and being able to work in the United States, where he’s able to get more opportunities to do what he loves.

His dreams continue and he hopes to start new projects very soon.

 

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CEI recognized as Greater Idaho Falls’ Top Trade/Technical School for fifth consecutive year

KIFI on October 17, 2025

News Team

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — The College of Eastern Idaho has once again been recognized for its unwavering commitment to excellence. For an incredible fifth year in a row, CEI has brought home the gold award for the best trade/technical school in Greater Idaho Falls.

This recognition celebrates CEI’s continued commitment to excellence, accessibility, and high-quality education and training, the college wrote on Facebook.

The college says this award is a reflection of its dedication to serving the community — and they’re thanking students, staff, and supporters for making it possible. CEI adds that this honor belongs to everyone who believes in its mission — and they’re just getting started.

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Boo! It’s Science: ISU’s Haunted Science Laboratory returns October 25th

KIFI on October 17, 2025

News Release

The following is a news release from Idaho State University:

POCATELLO, Idaho — Now’s your chance to see the not-so-spooky side of science.

Idaho State University Department of Physics and Kiwanis Club of Pocatello’s Haunted Science Laboratory will be open to the public on Saturday, October 25, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Bannock County Event Center, Commercial Building B, just north of the Pocatello Downs Grandstand. The Haunted Science Lab features a Van DeGraaf generator, lasers, and multiple educational and interactive science activities designed to delight, fright, and educate kids of all ages. Some exhibits use the same principles as Disneyland’s Haunted Science Mansion, except they are explained. 

“This is a great opportunity to share the wonder of science with your family and have some spooky fun,” said Steve Shropshire, professor of physics at Idaho State University. “And like any good Halloween event, costumes are more than welcome.”

The cost to attend is $5 per person or $10 per family (limit 6), and cash only. All proceeds from the event go toward Kiwanis-supported charities that benefit children in Southeast Idaho.

For over a decade, Idaho State’s Department of Physics and the Kiwanis Club of Pocatello have hosted the Haunted Science Laboratory as a free field trip for local schools prior to opening to the public. In 2024, nearly 2,000 local students and adults from around the region visited the Haunted Science Laboratory on a field trip, and when it opened to the public, more than 450 visitors stopped by the lab.

If you have questions about the event, contact Jasmyne Jensen, ISU Department of Physics Administrative Assistant, at (208) 282-2350 or coseoutreach@isu.edu. 

More on ISU’s Department of Physics can be found at isu.edu/physics. 

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K9 Roam, police dog stabbed this week, works on taking first steps after leg amputation

KRDO on October 17, 2025

Celeste Springer

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) — The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) has released an update on K9 Roam, the police dog that was stabbed during an incident with a suspect this week.

K9 Roam was seriously injured, with wounds to his neck, abdomen, and leg. Due to the severity, emergency veterinarians decided that amputating one of his back legs would be necessary.

On Friday, CSPD announced that Roam is working on sitting up and taking steps.

“First and foremost, we want to thank the incredible team at Animal ER Care on North Nevada for the amazing care for Roam. This week also happens to be Veterinary Technician Appreciation Week. And while our vet teams take great care of our dogs all the time, it is in these unexpected and trying times we feel that gratitude even more,” a post by CSPD read in part.

The suspect, 37-year-old Anthony Bryant, was arrested following the incident. A Fort Carson spokesperson confirmed he is a Sergeant, assigned to the 10th Special Forces Group, having served for over 16 years with the Army.

Bryant was booked into the El Paso County jail and is facing multiple felony charges, including animal cruelty, resisting arrest, and burglary.

CSPD Chief Vasquez says that any residents who want to donate funds for their team should do so through the Colorado Springs Police Foundation. There is a tab specifically designated as a “K9 Roam fund.“

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Baby Emmanuel Case: Advocates say guilty plea not enough without recovery of remains

KESQ on October 17, 2025

Garrett Hottle

CABAZON, Calif. (KESQ) Advocates say justice for Baby Emmanuel Haro remains incomplete even after his father’s guilty plea to murder charges in Riverside County Superior Court. Jake Haro, the father of 7-month old Emmanuel Haro, pleaded guilty to murder, child endangerment, and filing a false police report during a Felony Settlement Conference on Thursday. Prosecutors say Haro fabricated an abduction story last August, claiming his baby was kidnapped in a Yucaipa parking lot. Investigators later determined that report was false.

According to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, Haro’s plea was entered directly to the court, not part of a plea deal, leaving the judge to determine his sentence. He faces 25 years to life in prison when he returns for sentencing Nov. 3. That same day, Rebecca Renee Haro, 41, is due in the same courtroom for a preliminary hearing on murder and false report charges.

Inside the courtroom Thursday, gasps and quiet sobs rippled through the gallery as Haro began crying and told the judge he wanted to change his plea. Don Cato, a Menifee resident who has followed the case since the beginning, said he saw Rebecca Haro begin rocking back and forth in tears.

“As he was crying, he said he wanted to plead guilty,” Cato said. “As soon as he did, she started rocking and saying, ‘My baby, my baby.’ Her attorneys tried to calm her by rubbing her shoulder. The whole courtroom was shocked.”

“Jake Haro’s guilty plea is a necessary step toward accountability, and we acknowledge the hard work of the prosecution to secure a conviction,” said Daniel Chapin, founder of the Uvalde Foundation For Kids. “However, justice for Emmanuel is incomplete until his remains are recovered. This plea cannot overshadow the systemic failures that enabled this abuse, nor the ongoing failure of the Sheriff’s Department to bring this child home for a proper burial. Our fight now centers on recovering Emmanuel and enacting ‘Emmanuel’s Law’ to protect other children from falling through the cracks of a broken system.”

According to transportation logs reviewed Friday morning, Jake and Rebecca Haro appeared in juvenile court. 

As of today, investigators and the DA’s office have stated Emmanuel’s Remains have not been found. 

“Because Rebecca’s case is still active, we cannot confirm or deny details of the investigation,” a spokesperson for the DA’s office stated.

This story is developing and will be added with additional info as it becomes available.

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Central Oregon spots to pick out a pumpkin and celebrate the fall season

KTVZ on October 17, 2025

Shannon Brady

(Update: Adding video)

With fall in full swing and Halloween right around the corner, you might be looking for something fun to do this season. There are a number of places across Central Oregon where you can pick out a pumpkin and celebrate the season.

Smith Rock Ranch in Terrebonne is the regions largest “u-pick” pumpkin patch and has been a fan-favorite for many Central Oregonians for over 20 years. They grow all their own pumpkins on-site and have many pre-picked options. Admission and parking is free and you are given a barrel when you arrive.

Owner of the Ranch, Matt Lisignoli, says you can expect to find the ranch busy and bustling.

He says, “Activities will include the corn maze, the pumpkin cannons, pony rides, mini golf, animal house, a Snoopy train ride, and the zoo train ride as well.”

The theme of the corn maze this year is “Maize-o-poly” named after the classic board game Monopoly.

He continues, “We really appreciate having the public out. We just ask everybody respect our property and follow all the signs and just be patient.”

If you’re looking for something more laid back this season, Schilling’s Garden Market in Bend might be the place for you. You can shop, sip, and pick out your very own pumpkin. They have animals, a play area and hay maze for kids, and they also host events throughout the season.

Breanna Sommerville from Schilling’s tells KTVZ, “Our pumpkin patch is so special because we’re a place where people come to actually, like, slow down. And I think just enjoy the view and take in this time of year. This weekend, this Friday and Saturday, we will have wine tasting on our patio from a few different Oregon wineries. We also have a mini farmer’s market on Saturday along with our farm dog’s birthday celebration…and street dog here is going to be here with adoptable pups.”

They are open for the season until November 2nd, but have holiday events in November and December.

Make sure you check out their websites for their hours and any upcoming events.

Smith Rock Ranch: https://www.smithrockranch.com/ Schilling’s Garden Market: https://www.schillingsgardenmarket.com/

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Joint enforcement operation aims to ‘keep the streets safe’

News-Press NOW on October 17, 2025

Kyle Schmidt

ST. JOSEPH, Mo (News-Press NOW) — The St. Joseph Police department teamed up with the Missouri State Highway Patrol to conduct a joint operation leading to multiple arrests.

The roughly six-hour operation took place on Oct. 4. Of the 57 traffic stops, 49 citations, 39 warnings and three DWI arrests were made during the operation.

“What we want to do is we want to keep the streets safe obviously and with a helicopter added in as a resource it’s good because it allows us to keep an eye on the actual suspects from the air,” said St. Joseph Police Department Sergeant Richard McGregory. “And we can send less cars that are driving at higher rates of speed after the car. We can slow down, be more efficient in our apprehension and be more precise too.”

Sgt. McGregory said they have conducted similar operations in the past. These operations allow them to pursue vehicles not cooperating, and having support from highway patrol through the air helps make this capture safer.

“They’re pilots are great, they’re spot on, I think they have the best in the business right now,” he said. “I think every time we utilize them, it’s always a success.”

Thermal and night vision helped contribute to the pursuit. The operation covered the whole city and did not target specific areas. Sgt. McGregory said they will continue to be transparent with the community.

“We are always in discussions on how we can do our job more efficiently, keep the streets safer, keep the community safe,” Sgt. McGregory said. “We’re always in discussions of that but some of those discussions are something that we don’t want to let out to the public because we obviously want to always have the upper hand in these situations.”

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