Palm Springs Pride unveils Pride Monument at Frances Stevens Park

KESQ on October 8, 2025

Timothy Foster

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Greater Palm Springs Pride unveiled an eight-foot-tall monument commemorating the contributions of the LGBT community in the Greater Palm Springs area.

An unveiling ceremony was held Friday morning at Frances Stevens Park near the corner of Alejo Road and Indian Canyon Drive.   

Attendees included Mayor Ron deHarte, Al Jones, president of the Pride monument Board of Directors, Gary Armstrong, Palm Springs Art Commission chair, Palm Springs Human Rights Commission Chair Hugo Loyola, sculpture artist Jim Isermann, community members, activists and supporters.

“This monument is more than just an incredible piece of art, it is a permanent and visible symbol of our community’s history, courage and unwavering spirit,” deHarte said in a statement.

The mayor added that the monument also serves as a gathering place and an educational tool highlighting the contributions of the LGBT community.   

The stainless steel sculpture, created by Isermann, features three symbols of solidarity, including lamba, triangle and the rainbow.   

The monument measures 14 feet at its widest point, and includes 720 stainless steel modules painted in different colors that form a single structure.  

It will also feature a triangular design inspired by the pink triangle used during the Holocaust that was reclaimed as a symbol of gay liberation in the early 1970s.

Its color scheme is inspired by Gilbert Baker’s 1978 rainbow flag design.   

The ceremony markedthe formal donation of the monument by the organization to the city’s permanent public art collection, officials said.

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Missouri sees increase in deaths from West Nile virus

KMIZ on October 8, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Three people have died from West Nile virus in Missouri this year, according to data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

The DHSS also says there’s been an increase in human cases of the virus this year with 16, compared to 15 reported last year. There was one fatality reported in the state in 2024. There have been 15 hospitalizations from the virus this year compared to 13 last year.

One fatality this year was reported in St. Louis County, while the other two were reported in Grundy and St. Charles counties, respectively. All of the people who died had contracted the virus from within the state in August, the data shows.

A Wednesday press release from the DHSS says, “West Nile virus is the leading cause of mosquito-borne disease in the contiguous United States. This infection often causes no symptoms, but about 1 in 5 people may develop a flu-like illness with fever, headache, and/or body aches. In rare cases, especially in older adults or people with weakened immune systems, it can cause serious problems like swelling of the brain or spinal cord and/or paralysis.”

The release says residents can protect themselves by:

Using insect repellent with DEET, picaridin or IR3535;

Wearing long sleeves and pants;

Getting rid of standing water;

Making sure windows and door screens “are in good repair to keep mosquitoes out;” and

Reporting dead birds to the Missouri Department of Conservation.

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Locals mourn the loss of MonsterMedia founder Keith Lewis

KYMA on October 8, 2025

Dillon Fuhrman

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The Yuma community is mourning the loss of a longtime local broadcast pioneer.

MonsterMedia says its founder, Keith Lewis, passed away earlier this week.

The radio station says Lewis’ passion for radio and his dedication to local broadcasting helped shape the Yuma media landscape for more than 45 years.

His broadcasting career began in the 1980s, and he co-founded MonsterMedia LLC in 1997. In addition, Lewis was a talented musician who loved to play any chance he got.

Lewis was 73-years-old. Services are pending and expected in early November.

MonsterMedia and the Lewis and Alvarez families would like to thank the entire community for the outpouring of love, support, great stories and photos that have been shared.

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Local chambers of commerce and EDCO launch Regional Business Alliance, explain its purpose ahead of summit

KTVZ on October 8, 2025

KTVZ

Update: Adding video

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Central Oregon Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) announced Wednesday the official launch of the Regional Business Alliance, a collaborative initiative uniting business voices across Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson counties. 

The RBA will serve as a unified advocate for pro-business policies, infrastructure investment, and regional prosperity, ensuring that the needs of Central Oregon’s private local businesses are amplified at the state level, according to the announcement, which continues in full below.

“The Regional Business Alliance reflects the collaborative spirit of Central Oregon. By bringing chambers, economic development experts, local and state governments, and business partners together, we’re ensuring our region speaks with one strong, united voice in Salem and beyond,” said Sara Odendahl, Interim CEO of the Bend Chamber.  

Jon Stark, CEO of Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) added, “The Regional Business Alliance represents an opportunity for Central Oregon— collaboration, vision, and a commitment to prosperity that reaches every corner of our region. We are ensuring that Central Oregon’s voice is heard in a new and impactful way and that our businesses have the tools they need to thrive today and in the future.” 

The RBA is launching with strong support from founding partners St. Charles Health System, Mid Oregon Credit Union, Pacific Power and Visit Bend, reflecting a shared commitment to building a resilient and prosperous future for the region. 

 “At St. Charles, we know that the health of our community is deeply connected to the health of our economy,” said Dr. Steve Gordon, CEO of St. Charles Health System. “By supporting the Regional Business Alliance, we’re investing in a future where strong businesses, a thriving workforce, and healthy communities grow together.” 

“Central Oregon’s growth depends on collaboration,” said Kevin Cole, CEO of Mid Oregon Credit Union. “Through the Regional Business Alliance, we have the opportunity to ensure our businesses—and the families they support—have the resources and policies they need to succeed in every corner of the region.” 

Over the summer, the RBA hosted a dozen roundtables throughout the tri-county area with local business and community leaders. The roundtables have brought together over 100 participants to foster open dialogue on the region’s most pressing challenges to doing business locally. RBA is hosting additional roundtables to continue gathering input. If you’d like to participate in a roundtable, visit www.RegionalBusinessAlliance.com.  

Additionally, as part of its inaugural efforts, the RBA will host the Central Oregon Economic and Policy Summit on Friday, October 24, at Redmond City Hall.

This half-day program will convene business, elected and community leaders for collaboration, insights, and action on issues such as economic development, infrastructure and housing, and workforce policy. The event will feature presentations from Oregon Business & Industry, East Cascade Works, as well as the Central Oregon Legislative Caucus and Central Oregon Cities Organization. 

Jennifer Stephens, Program Manager of the Regional Business Alliance, added: “The Regional Business Alliance is already bringing together local business perspectives for input through roundtables and community engagement. Local leaders are sharing what’s working, and not, for their business in Central Oregon. The Regional Business Alliance is listening, distilling, and elevating the voice of central Oregon businesses by amplifying the collective message.   

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About the Regional Business Alliance Formed in 2025, the Regional Business Alliance (RBA) is a partnership of the Central Oregon Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development for Central Oregon, dedicated to advancing a collaborative legislative agenda that supports a thriving business climate. The RBA works alongside the Central Oregon Legislative Caucus and the Central Oregon Cities Organization to champion economic development, infrastructure, housing, transportation and workforce policies to benefit the entire region. 

For more information or to get involved, visit www.RegionalBusinessAlliance.com. 

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Jury recommends death penalty for Banning man convicted of series of gang-related murders

KESQ on October 8, 2025

Jesus Reyes

BANNING, Calif. (KESQ) – A 28-year-old man faces the death penalty after pleading guilty to five gang-related murders, along with an attempted murder, in Banning between 2015 and 2020.

A jury returned a death penalty verdict for William Arnold Armendariz III on Tuesday at the Riverside Hall of Justice. He is due back in court on Dec. 12 for an official sentencing.

According to Banning police, all homicides involved multiple members of a criminal street gang.

One of the cases that William Armendariz has pleaded guilty to was a triple homicide at a Banning cemetery in Aug. 2020. Felicia McCafferty, 48, Theresa Sanchez, 43, and James Lara Jr., 53, were killed in a shooting.

After the shooting, William Armendariz was on the run for several days along with his brother, Christopher Armendariz. They were located and captured in Illinois five days after the shooting.

Christopher Armendariz eventually pleaded guilty to manslaughter and a criminal street gang enhancement. He was sentenced to 11 years in State Prison

Police said after his arrest, Banning detectives were able to connect William Armendariz to the murders of Charles Neazer in 2015 and Bradley Cunningham in 2018, as well as the attempted murder of Cunningham’s friend, who survived the incident.

Other suspects were also identified during the investigation.

Samuel Vasquez was identified for the murder of Neazer and Henry Waters Jr. in Feb. 2017. Vasquez was convicted his role in the murders of Charles Neazer and Henry Waters Jr, as well as several other attempted murders, assaults with a deadly weapon, and criminal street gang enhancements. He was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole in Jan. 2023.

Jovanny Martinez and Brandon Hylkema were identified as additional suspects for the murder of Bradley Cunningham. Hylkema pleaded guilty to manslaughter and a criminal street gang enhancement and isawaiting sentencing. Martinez is currently awaiting trial.

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Man life-flighted after head-on truck collision near Swan Valley

KIFI on October 8, 2025

Linda Larsen

 SWAN VALLEY, Idaho (KIFI) — A 37-year-old man is fighting for his life following a horrific head-on collision between a propane truck and a passenger car this afternoon in Swan Valley.

The crash occurred just after 1:00 p.m. on U.S. Highway 26 near Fox Creek Road. The impact severely injured the driver of the passenger car, who had to be life-flighted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center (EIRMC). The condition of the propane truck driver is currently unknown.

Traffic and Investigation

The scene of the accident remains active, and a full accident reconstruction team is working to figure out exactly what happened, according to Swan Valley Fire Chief Travis Crystal.

As a result, a lengthy closure is expected. U.S. Highway 26 will be reduced to one lane for several hours through the Swan Valley area. Drivers are being told to prepare for major delays and consider alternate routes if possible.

Chief Crystal is urging drivers to use extreme caution when approaching the scene. A separate, secondary crash happened earlier today when a driver rear-ended another vehicle that had slowed for the initial accident. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in that second incident.

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Week 7 High School Football Matchups

News-Press NOW on October 8, 2025

Ryan Eslinger

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Week 7 of high school football saw some dominating wins and big losses for teams from around the area.

SportsZone’s Game of the Week featured two teams across the border as the Riverside Cyclones hosted the Troy Trojans in what was likely the last time these two teams would meet for the foreseeable future. The Cyclones pulled off a big win in this rivalry matchup, with the Cyclones moving to 5-1 on the season as the Trojans fell to 4-2.

Here are the final scores from the week’s matchups:

Riverside Cyclones defeat the Troy Trojans 28-0

Central Indians lose 42-20 against the Park Hill Trojans

Benton Cardinals lose to the Monroe City Panthers 44-6

Lafayette Fighting Irish fall to the Cameron Dragons 20-8

Bishop LeBlond Golden Eagles beat Northland Christian Trailblazers 56-22

St. Joseph Christian Lions lose to the Pattonsburg Panthers 32-60

Savannah Savages win 35-0 over the Chillicothe Hornets

Mid-Buchanan Dragons win 56-24 over the North Platte Panthers

East Buchanan Bulldogs lose against the West Platte Blue Jays 50-7

DeKalb Tigers fall to the Stewartsville WildCards 58-20

All games were played at 7:00 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, unless stated otherwise.

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Suspect in Somerton murder found dead

KYMA on October 8, 2025

Dillon Fuhrman

SOMERTON, Ariz. (KYMA) – The Somerton Police Department (SPD) says they found the body of a murder suspect Tuesday.

According to SPD, they responded to the area of Somerton Avenue and Madison Street at around 1:15 p.m. after receiving reports of a man’s body found in the cotton fields.

Upon arrival, SPD says they identified the body as 40-year-old Ignacio Bedoy, a suspect wanted in the murder of 31-year-old Brian Landeros.

SPD says while no foul play was suspected, they are working with the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office on the case.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Seeing smoke? Ochoco National Forest conducted a large prescribed burn

KTVZ on October 8, 2025

KTVZ

(Update: Ignitions complete, smoke to remain visible)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Fire managers with the Ochoco National Forest said more than 400 acres of prescribed burning took place Wednesday on the Paulina Ranger District.

The HEJ 9 unit encompassed about 418 acres on the northwest side of Big Summit Prairie, east of Forest Service Road 22, west of FSR 22-300, and south of FSR 22-250.

Forest officials said in a Facebook update late Wednesday that ignitions were completed and fire managers had transitioned to holding and patrol operations to secure the perimeter and ensure the burn stays within planned boundaries.

Smoke will remain visible over the next several days, they said, as interior fuels continue to burn.

Forest Service officials had said late Tuesday that if conditions remain favorable, a second day of burning may occur to finish the unit.

Earlier informatuon:

Smoke from the burn may be visible from Big Summit Prairie, Prineville, Redmond, and Madras, and travelers on Forest Service Roads 22 and 42 may experience intermittent smoke impacts. Smoke could settle into low-lying areas of Big Summit Prairie overnight. Fire managers will post signs along affected roads.

Firefighters from the Ochoco National Forest will manage this prescribed fire.  Smoke may be visible for several days to weeks as logs and stumps continue to burn out, and Forest Service resources will patrol the area daily until the fire is declared out. 

What does this mean for you?

During prescribed burns, smoke may settle in low-lying areas overnight and in the early morning hours.

All residents are encouraged to close doors and windows at night to avoid smoke impacts.

If available, use a portable air cleaner. Air cleaners work best running with doors and windows closed. You can also create a DIY air cleaner.

If you have a central air system, use it to filter air. Use high-efficiency filters if possible.

When driving in smoky areas, drivers should slow down, turn on headlights and turn air to recirculating.

If you have heart or lung disease, asthma, or other chronic conditions, pay attention to how you feel and if symptoms of heart or lung disease worsen, consider contacting your health care professional.

Go to centraloregonfire.org to learn more about smoke safety and prescribed burning in Central Oregon and visit When Smoke is in the Air for more smoke preparedness resources.

For more information on prescribed burning in Central Oregon, visit centraloregonfire.org/ and for information specific to the Ochoco National Forest visit fs.usda.gov/r06/ochoco. Follow us on X/Twitter @CentralORFire. Text “COFIRE” to 888-777 to receive wildfire and prescribed fire text alerts.

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Local Scouts to host “Scouting for Food” drive to fill area food banks

KIFI on October 8, 2025

News Team

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) — Heads up, Southeast Idaho, get ready to help your neighbors. Beginning next weekend, the Mountain District of the Grand Teton Council of Scouting America is hosting its annual “Scouting for Food” community drive.

On Saturday, October 18, local Scouts will be out in force, manning collection booths across the region to gather essential food items. Your donations will directly support local food banks as they prepare for the upcoming holiday season and the greater need that continues throughout the year.

“Troops and packs will man drop off locations in the community and represent scouting as we serve our community,” said Deborah McHugh, Scout Mountain district chair. “Many families rely on these generous donations of food from our community.”

The local Scout Mountain District serves the communities of Pocatello, Chubbuck, American Falls, Inkom, McCammon, Malad, and Soda Springs. Scouts will be collecting non-perishable food items at various locations throughout the day at the following locations:

Pocatello/Chubbuck – October 18, 2025, 10 am-2 pm

Idaho Food Bank – 555 S. 1st Ave, Pocatello, ID

Ridley’s Family Market – 1000 Pocatello Cr. Rd Pocatello, ID Grand Teton Walmart 4240 Yellowstone Ave Chubbuck, ID

Smith’s Food and Drug – 4845 Yellowstone Ave, Chubbuck, ID

Fred Meyer – 800 Yellowstone Ave, Pocatello, ID

Albertson’s – 330 East Benton, Pocatello, ID

American Falls – October 18, 2025, 9 am-12noon

Advantage Plus Credit Union – 465 Hillcrest Ave, American Falls, ID 83211

Rockland Pharmacy – 524 Tyhee Ave, American Falls, ID 83211

Bank of Commerce – 590 Tyhee Ave, American Falls, ID 83211

Les Schwab – 2842 Pocatello Ave, American Falls, ID 83211

Bingham Co-op

Ridley’s – 2827 Pocatello Ave, American Falls, ID 83211

Ken’s Market – 548 Tyhee Ave, American Falls, ID 83211

Lava Hot Springs – October 18, 2025, 9-10:30 am

Community Center – 150 N Center St, Lava Hot Springs, ID 83246

McCammon – October 18, 2025-10:30-12 noon

McCammon City Park by Family Dollar 700 Center St

Inkom – October 18, 2025-12:00-1:30 pm

Bisharat Market and Automotive – 112 Old Hwy 30 Inkom, ID

Soda Springs – October 18, 2025-10 am-2 pm

Scout House – 9 W 2nd S, Soda Springs, ID 83276

Lallatin’s Grocery – 39 W 2nd S, Broulim’s 89 W 2nd S

This year’s Scouting for Food drive is co-sponsored by JustServe and the Idaho Foodbank, ensuring that all donations are efficiently distributed to those who need them most in Southeast Idaho. For more information on Scouting for Food or other scouting programs in our area, contact Corey at (208) 317-6153, Debi at (208) 406-1614 or the Pocatello Scouting America Office at (208) 233-4600.

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