HOPE Releases First National Report on Economic Status of Latinas

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Lisa Valadez

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    October 15, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — HOPE (Hispanas Organized for Political Equality) has released its first National Economic Status of Latinas Report, offering a comprehensive look at the economic, educational, and leadership experiences of Latinas across the United States. The report combines national data with focus groups conducted in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Illinois—the five states with the largest Latina populations.

In Texas, Latinas number 6.24 million, nearly 20% of the state’s population. The report finds strong workforce participation, with 54.7% of Latinas in the labor force and an unemployment rate of 4.8%. Education levels show that 21.1% of Texas Latinas hold a college degree or higher. Entrepreneurship is also a key strength: 17.7% of women-owned small businesses in Texas are Latina-owned, one of the highest rates nationwide.

Despite these advances, the report highlights persistent economic challenges. The average income for Texas Latinas is $62,906—earning just 42 cents for every dollar earned by White, non-Hispanic men. This wage gap translates to an estimated $1.7 million in lost lifetime earnings per individual. Focus group participants, primarily first-generation Latinas, described navigating education, careers, and financial systems without inherited guidance, often relying on multiple income streams and entrepreneurial ventures while facing concerns around debt, housing, and investment.

Nationally, Latinas contributed $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2021, with labor force participation reaching a record-high 58.9% in 2024. While increasingly college-educated and the youngest major demographic group, Latinas still encounter barriers such as unequal pay, occupational segregation, and limited access to capital.

Helen Iris Torres, CEO of HOPE, emphasized that removing these obstacles is key to unlocking economic growth: “Latinas are stepping up in every sector of the economy, yet many still confront significant barriers such as unequal pay, limited access to capital, and underrepresentation in leadership roles.”

The full report is available at latinas.org/eslrnational

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Teens under investigation for alleged antisemitic Halloween costume plans

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Anthony Johnson

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    MANALAPAN, New Jersey (WABC) — A Freehold high school is responding after a controversy in New Jersey over a group Halloween costume.

It started with a post on TikTok among students at Manalapan High School and their plans to dress up as Hitler and Holocaust babies.

The TikTok messages that were apparently posted by three freshman girls and have stunned school officials, residents and students who attend the school.

The posts allegedly discuss dressing up as Adolf Hitler for Halloween and making a costume of the children from the Holocaust.

Other comments were equally disturbing with one reportedly saying, “kill every last one please,” and “I fill my vape with the gas from the Holocaust.”

These messages are reportedly from students at one of the state’s top high schools.

“I’m seeing more of this stuff now with young people that they’re talking about Hitler and being aggressive toward other people,” Pete Jeremich said.

The students did not make the comments in school, but parents have been informed about the incident and counseling has been set up to help students cope with this form of antisemitism.

“If they want to dress up as Hitler, they’d better get ready for some push back. So whether it’s from younger people or older people, they better get ready for push back,” Jeremich said.

The Superintendent of the district released a statement saying, “We are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness and taking immediate, comprehensive, and decisive action. We are committed to ensuring that all students feel safe, supported, and welcomed in our schools. Antisemitism and hate of any kind have no place in our schools. Our high schools remain dedicated to building an inclusive community.”

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Day care employee arrested for sexual abuse of children, sheriff says

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Lindsay Weber, Peyton Headlee

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    LIVE OAK, California (KCRA) — A Sutter County day care worker is accused of sexually abusing multiple children who were in his care, leading to the revocation of the facility’s license, according to the sheriff’s office.

On Monday, the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office said it received a report of suspected child sexual abuse at Kruse Oralia Family Child Care Home, a state-licensed facility in Live Oak.

Following an investigation, officials said deputies arrested Steven Kruse, 63, an employee at the day care, for multiple felonies, including oral copulation or sexual penetration with a child under 10, lewd and lascivious acts with a child under 14, and dissuading a witness from reporting a crime.

“He was kind of in charge of the transportation. So, he would take children to and from schools or to and from their homes for daycare services,” Sierra Pedley, spokesperson for the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office, said. “To my knowledge, currently, most of the incidents did happen in the home, though.”

Pedley said the day care has been in business since 2006, is owned by Kruse’s wife, and is run out of their home.

These allegations are not the first against this day care facility. In December 2023, the California Department of Social Services received a complaint about alleged sexual abuse at the daycare.

State documents say a child reported being touched inappropriately by an adult who is not named in the report. But the investigator determined the claims could not be substantiated.

“The case from 2023 is being reopened and we will be investigating additionally on that. The incident from 2023 and the incident from yesterday are two separate victims,” Pedley said.

The city of Live Oak issued a revocation of business license to the day care facility after the charges were filed.

“This action was taken in accordance with the city of Live Oak Municipal Code,” the city shared in a statement. “Specifically related to relevant, active issues under police consideration and for the general safeguard of the public.”

Parents told KCRA 3 that the day care was open and operating on Wednesday morning, and that they learned about the allegations against Kruse after dropping their children off via a Facebook post from the Sutter County Sheriff’s Office.

KCRA 3 tried to speak with someone at the day care Wednesday, but they didn’t answer the door or phone calls.

Additionally, the sheriff’s office notified the California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division of the allegations, and an administrative investigation into the facility was opened.

Kruse is set to appear in court on Friday. He is being held without bail.

Anyone with additional information related to the case is urged to contact Detective Rhiley Harrison or Sergeant Ernesto Chavez at 530-822-7307.

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Roxanne Orsak Makes History as First Woman President of H-E-B

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Francis Page, Jr.

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    October 15, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — For more than a century, H-E-B has been the backbone of Texas communities, from feeding families after hurricanes to sponsoring schools and lifting up small businesses. Now, in a historic move, the San Antonio-based grocer has once again etched its name in the Texas history books by appointing Roxanne Orsak as its first-ever female President, effective January 2026. This is more than a corporate promotion. This is a glass ceiling shattered. A 120-Year Legacy Comes Full Circle H-E-B’s story began in 1905 with Florence Butt, a trailblazing entrepreneur who opened a small grocery store in Kerrville, Texas. Fast forward 120 years, and the company she founded now passes the presidential torch to another groundbreaking woman. With this appointment, Orsak doesn’t just step into leadership—she steps into history. Her promotion reaffirms H-E-B’s DNA: bold, people-first, and deeply Texan. From Store Trainee to President Roxanne Orsak’s journey is a Texas-sized story of grit, growth, and grace. She joined H-E-B in 1988 as a store management trainee and never looked back. Over 37 years, she rose through nearly every division: store operations, merchandising, procurement, format design, and more. Her fingerprints are on some of H-E-B’s biggest innovations, from the H-E-B Plus! mega-stores to the beloved Joe V’s Smart Shop. In 2022, she was named Chief Operating Officer. Now, she will make history as President—continuing to report to CEO Howard Butt III. “I’ve always believed that H-E-B is more than a grocery store—it’s a family committed to making life better for Texans,” Orsak shared. “I’m honored to lead with integrity, heart, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.” Carrying Forward Craig Boyan’s Legacy Orsak’s appointment comes as Craig Boyan, H-E-B’s President since 2010, transitions to a senior advisor role ahead of his 2026 retirement. Under Boyan’s steady hand, H-E-B expanded sales from $10 billion to $50 billion, pioneered e-commerce innovation, and steered Texans through crises from hurricanes to a pandemic. Boyan leaves behind not just numbers but a culture of collaboration. “Retail is a team sport,” he often said, and Roxanne Orsak is the MVP stepping into the captain’s seat. A Champion of People, Community, and Innovation Orsak’s leadership style is simple yet profound: listen to the Partners (employees) so they can take great care of customers. She is also deeply engaged in philanthropy, from supporting rural schools and youth development to championing the South Texas Multiple Sclerosis Society. Her academic credentials are equally impressive: Texas A&M graduate, with advanced training at Harvard Business School and the University of Southern California’s Food Industry Management Program. Why This Moment Matters In a state where H-E-B is more than a grocer—it’s a lifeline—Orsak’s historic appointment sends a resounding message: women not only belong at the table, they can lead it. Her presidency echoes the pioneering spirit of Florence Butt while paving the way for future generations of women leaders in Texas and beyond. What’s Next for H-E-B As H-E-B celebrates its 120th anniversary, Orsak’s presidency marks the beginning of a new chapter: one rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and impact. With over 455 stores, 175,000 Partners, and annual sales topping $50 billion, H-E-B is poised for continued growth under her leadership. And as every Texan knows, when H-E-B leads, communities thrive. Final Word Houston Style Magazine celebrates this milestone not just as a corporate announcement, but as a cultural moment for Texas. Roxanne Orsak’s rise to President is living proof that when leadership is fueled by heart, hustle, and heritage, history isn’t just made—it’s H-E-B made. Go to; HEB.com

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Lisa Valadez
lisa@stylemagazine.com
713-748-6300

Man accused of using AI to create nude photo of ex-girlfriend in court

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Hannah Hilyard

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    MILWAUKEE (WISN) — Artificial intelligence is right now at the center of a Milwaukee police investigation.

Prosecutors have accused Kevin Scholz, who lives in Franklin, of using AI to alter a selfie of his ex-girlfriend into a nude photo and then sending it to her.

Investigators said the two briefly dated in 2022 and the altered photo was sent to the woman in May of this year.

“(She) recognized the photo of a selfie she took at a Bucks game in a bathroom, actually,” Det. Del-Moral said. “And that photo was modified so she would be fully nude.”

When asked how the ex-girlfriend knew the photo was modified, Del-Moral explained, “Well, one, she took the photo of herself fully clothed. And there was actually a cleaning person in the background.”

A criminal complaint states that the phone number used to send the picture “links to the defendant.”

Scholz, who recently served on Governor Evers’ Autism Council, was “promptly removed from the council” following the charges, according to the Governor’s Office. Scholz also has a background in law enforcement, including a brief stint as a Milwaukee County Sheriff’s deputy 20 years ago.

Scholz’s attorney, Christopher Cherella, challenged the allegations during Wednesday’s preliminary hearing.

“You have no idea, as you sit here today where that picture was altered, correct?” Cherella asked Del-Moral

“Correct,” she replied.

“That picture was sent from the number previously affiliated with Mr. Scholz to her. Is that true?” Cherella asked.

Del-Moral responded, “That’s correct.”

The defense also noted that the picture was not posted on any form of social media, to which Del-Moral replied, “Not that I’m aware of.”

Attempts to reach Scholz at his home were unsuccessful, as no one answered the door, but someone was seen closing nearby blinds. Scholz is currently out on a signature bond as the case progresses.

Scholz is scheduled to be arraigned next month, facing one felony charge of capturing an intimate representation without consent and one misdemeanor charge of disorderly conduct. His attorney declined to comment on the case Wednesday.

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Updating progress of Interstate 25 improvements between Fillmore Street & Garden of the Gods Road in Colorado Springs

KRDO on October 16, 2025

Scott Harrison

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) — Few road projects are as large, expensive, and impactful as the major infrastructure project in the heart of the city that has entered its third year.

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) expects to finish a $62 million improvement project by the end of next summer.

Crews are making various upgrades on a 1.5-mile stretch of I-25 between Fillmore Street and Garden of the Gods Road.

CDOT has replaced the twin bridges over Ellston Street, which required several traffic shifts; traffic is using the southbound bridge while the northbound bridge is expected to open to traffic next month.

Workers are currently focused on the east side of the freeway, along the northbound lanes, shifting traffic to the west, and creating open space that will become new lanes as well as acceleration/deceleration lanes.

The latter will be designed to make it easier for drivers to merge into and out of traffic, eliminating a traffic bottleneck that can cause backups for miles to the south.

That part of the project will eventually move to the west side of the freeway, along the southbound lanes.

Crews have also made significant drainage improvements.

Because traffic lanes have been narrow, winding, and bumpy during construction, CDOT is repaving I-25 through the work zone to smooth the pavement before winter.

The project’s next major phase happens in the spring with a major renovation of the bridge over Garden of the Gods Road.

“It’s going to be in the April/May time frame,” said Patti Henschen, a CDOT engineer overseeing the project. “We’ll give you more details when we get closer to that date, but it’s going to be some overnight closures over several weekends. New rehab work on it.”

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Viral video from Brewers game leads to Make-A-Wish Wisconsin board member’s resignation

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By TJ Dysart

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    MILWAUKEE (WISN) — A confrontation at a Brewers game in Milwaukee, where a woman threatened to call Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on a Dodgers fan, has gone viral and resulted in her resignation and job loss.

Ricardo Fosado, a Dodgers superfan and military veteran, recorded the incident during Game 2 of the National League Championship Series at American Family Field.

Fosado said the exchange began as friendly banter with Brewers fans but escalated when one fan took it too far.

“You know what, let’s call ICE,” the woman said, to which Fosado responded, “Call ICE, call ICE. I’m a U.S. citizen, war veteran, baby girl.”

Fosado captured the Dodgers taking a 3-1 lead and began cheering, which prompted the woman, wearing a Brewers shirt, to make the ICE comment.

She then appeared to swing at the camera. Fosado admitted to calling the woman an expletive off camera, after which security removed him from the stadium.

The video has since been viewed over 2 million times on social media.

“It just shows the level where a person’s heart is and how she really feels as a human being,” Fosado said.

12 News confirmed the woman is Shannon Kobylarczyk, an attorney at Milwaukee-based staffing firm Manpower. The company stated, “As soon as we became aware of this video, the individual was placed on immediate leave, and we began an investigation. As a result of this process, the employee is no longer with the organization.”

Make-A-Wish Wisconsin also announced that “Shannon resigned from our board of directors this afternoon effective immediately.”

Fosado said he did not intend for the video to go viral.

“Her heart is where it’s at, you know. I can’t do anything about it, nothing that I say that would change her thoughts about me.” Fosado said.

12 News reached out to the Brewers to see if they have seen the video, but has not yet received a response.

Kobylarczyk declined to comment for the story.

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VIDEO: Grain bin elevator collapses in Illinois, sending workers fleeing

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Sydney Hartman

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    MARTINTON, Illinois (WLWT) — A grain bin elevator collapsed in Martinton, Illinois, on Wednesday, sending workers scrambling for safety.

The incident happened just before 1 p.m. when the structure snapped in half, causing a cloud of dust to fill the air.

Videos captured the moment, showing the elevator collapsing and knocking down nearby power lines.

No injuries were reported, according to the Iroquois County Emergency Management Agency, but the entire power line structure will need to be rebuilt.

Residents in the area experienced power outages as a result. Power has since been restored.

Officials are investigating the cause of the collapse.

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Charges dismissed for man accused of 2022 deadly shooting of deputy

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Dacoda Wahpekeche

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    OKLAHOMA CITY (KOCO) — Charges have been dismissed for a man accused of shooting and killing an Oklahoma County deputy serving an eviction notice in 2022.

Benjamin Plank was accused of ambushing, shooting and killing Sgt. Bobby Swartz while deputies were serving an eviction notice on Aug. 22, 2022, at a southwest Oklahoma City home. Plank was charged with first-degree murder, multiple counts of shooting with intent to kill and using a vehicle to discharge a firearm.

Plank has been through many court proceedings in the years since the shooting, and a judge recently said Plank was incompetent due to a psychosis diagnosis and could not stand trial. There were some concerns in the case surrounding the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse and Plank’s access to court-ordered medication.

This week, all of Plank’s charges in connection with the deadly shooting have been dismissed.

Swartz’s family recently spoke with KOCO 5, saying there should be justice.

“My father deserves justice. He deserves better than what he’s gotten out of the system,” Austin Swartz said. “He gave 25 years of his life. Mark (Johns) almost gave his life for the same thing. And for that just to be a shoulder shrug – ‘Hey, we’re not going to hold anybody accountable’ – it’s unacceptable.”

While charges have been dismissed, Plank will remain in the state’s custody at a mental health facility.

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Woman pleads no contest in Oklahoma murders of two Kansas women

CNN Newsource on October 16, 2025

By Jason Burger

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    GUYMON, Oklahoma (KOCO) — Tifany Adams has pleaded no contest to six of the nine charges against her in connection with the murders of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley, two Kansas women found in the Oklahoma Panhandle, and will not face the death penalty.

Adams, who is in custody in Texas County, was accused of orchestrating a plot to kill Butler with four other suspects.

“Tifany’s thing was, she hated Veronica; she wanted her out of her life, she wanted her gone, so that she could raise her grandchildren, and the only way to do that, was to eliminate her,” said Ladonna Thompson, Veronica Butler’s aunt.

Since the spring of 2024, Veronica’s aunt, Ladonna Thompson, has been in touch with the media.

New court documents reveal that Adams will be spared the death penalty, stating, “In exchange for the defendant’s plea of no contest, the State of Oklahoma agrees that it will not file a bill of particulars or seek the death penalty in this case.”

The six charges include first-degree murder and desecration of a corpse in the deaths of Veronica and Jilian.

“Jillian was just along for the ride when they were headed to pick up the children for a birthday party,” Thompson said.

The two women were traveling together from Hugoton, Kansas, to pick up Butler’s children when they went missing in Texas County, Oklahoma. They were reported missing on March 30, 2024, and were found buried two weeks later.

“She’s loved, and she will never be forgotten. And that’s exactly what we say. She’s very loved and never forgotten,” Thompson said.

As part of the plea agreement, the state will drop three charges against Tifany Adams — two for child neglect and one for conspiracy.

She could still face life in prison without the possibility of parole. Her sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 28.

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