Macon teenager pleads guilty in deadly Columbia crash

KMIZ on October 27, 2025

Matthew Sanders

Editor’s note: The lede of this story was corrected to reflect the crash occurred in 2024.

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

An 18-year-old man from Macon pleaded guilty Monday to four counts, including manslaughter, in a 2024 crash in southern Columbia.

Ty Frey pleaded guilty in Boone County before Judge Ben Miller to first-degree involuntary manslaughter, careless and imprudent driving, drunken driving and being an intoxicated minor. Sentencing is set for Jan. 5, 2026.

According to the Columbia Police Department, Killian Walker, 18, of Macon, was killed when the car he was in crashed around 2 a.m. Oct. 4, 2024, in the 800 block of West Old Plank Road. Frey, who was driving, and two other passengers suffered minor injuries.

Police said Frey drove off the road and hit a tree.

Court documents state that police found an empty 750 mL bottle of Hennessy in the car. Police said a breath test showed Frey’s blood alcohol was 0.070%.

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Yellowstone National Park: Major road closures south of Mammoth due to wicked winter weather

KIFI on October 27, 2025

Seth Ratliff

YELLOWSTONE, Montana (KIFI) — All Yellowstone National Park roads south of Mammoth Hot Springs are closed as of last night, Sunday, October 26, due to hazardous winter weather and multiple traffic incidents.

The closure, which began last night, is affecting access to all major destinations south of the Mammoth area. The road between Gardiner, Montana, and Cooke City, Montana, remains open at this time.

The park issued the closure after a challenging day on the roads. On Sunday, October 26, Yellowstone staff responded to more than 30 motor vehicle accidents, stranded vehicles, and slide-offs across various areas of the park.

Park officials say the closure will allow road crews time to safely clear heavy snow and address icy conditions.

Park staff says they will assess road conditions throughout the day to determine when they can safely reopen. Visitors can check the official Yellowstone National Park website for the latest status updates before traveling. For more information, click HERE.

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Officials share how to ‘dress for the weather’ on Halloween

News-Press NOW on October 27, 2025

Payton Counts

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Families are getting their costumes and baskets ready to hit the hot spots of St. Joseph for trick-or-treating on Halloween night.

With most heading out around dusk, safety remains a top priority, especially along busy areas like Ashland Avenue. 

Drivers are urged to slow down and be vigilant for children crossing the street.

For kids walking along sidewalks, Frank Till, the executive director of the St. Joseph Safety & Health Council, recommends being the “highlight” of the night.

“Wear bright colored costumes and lots of glow sticks, reflective material, just so people can see them,” said Till.

For drivers, he recommends staying off the phone and slowing down, as kids are more likely to rush across the street and move in between cars.

While Halloween is often known for chilly weather, in years past, it hasn’t always been that way. According to climatological data from Rosecrans Memorial Airport, the warmest Halloween on record was in 1950, when temperatures hit 88 degrees. The coldest high temperature was just 36 degrees.

This year’s forecast is looking cool once again, with highs in the 50s. 

Experts said the safest temperature for kids to be outside is 30 degrees or higher. A light jacket should be enough for daytime trick-or-treating, but after sunset, it would be good to layer up with a heavier jacket, as temperatures drop quickly.

When getting ready to dress up, it’s also important to remember to make sure that when wearing masks or face coverings, they are kept loose, as they can make it harder to breathe.

For families looking for alternatives to door-to-door trick-or-treating, several community events are happening across St. Joseph. 

Grace Calvary Chapel will host “A Night at the Big Top Carnival,” while Anderson Outdoor will hold a Trunk-or-Treat event on Oct. 31. 

The St. Joseph Police Department will also host a Trunk-or-Treat on Oct. 28, ahead of Halloween night.

Stay safe this Halloween!

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San Pasqual schools celebrate Red Ribbon Week

KYMA on October 27, 2025

Madeline Murray

WINTERHAVEN, Calif. (KYMA) – The San Pasqual Valley Unified School District is holding a series of events this week in honor of Red Ribbon Week.

Red Ribbon Week, taking place October 23 through October 31, is a weeklong effort to help communities across the country take a stand against drugs and help keep kids drug-free.

The school district kicked off the week with a march to the high school gymnasium Monday, with the superintendent introducing Danny Gutierrez, who held a presentation for the students.

The district will also hold a variety of events later in the week, such as a Resource Fair Day on Tuesday, Pledge Day on Wednesday, DEA Assembly Day on Thursday and a door decorating contest on Friday.

To learn more about Red Ribbon Week, click here.

Red Ribbon break downDownload

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Latest on the crash resulting in a man’s arrest

KYMA on October 27, 2025

Danyelle Burke North

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – There are new developments on the crash that resulted in a man’s arrest early Sunday morning.

According to the Yuma Police Department (YPD), the front passenger, a 25-year-old man, is still hospitalized with life-threatening injuries while two other passengers, a 24-year-old woman and a 21-year-old woman, were treated.

The crash happened in the area of S. Avenue B and W. 16th Street at around 2:15 a.m.

YPD says a white Dodge Challenger crashed into a traffic light pole “in the southwest corner of Avenue B and 16th Street.”

As a result, YPD says the driver, a 22-year-old man, the front passenger and two rear passengers were taken to Onvida Health, but the front passenger was flown to a Phoenix area hospital after receiving life-threatening injuries.

The driver, according to YPD, was treated and released from the hospital, but was then arrested and booked into the Yuma County Detention Center on multiple charges, including driving under the influence, reckless driving and endangerment.

While speed and alcohol appear to be factors in the crash, the investigation is ongoing.

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Boys & Girls Club of Bend announces new CEO, Michael Baker

KTVZ on October 27, 2025

KTVZ – News Team

(Update: video added)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Boys & Girls Club of Bend announced Monday it has a new CEO, Michael Baker, who will be stepping into the role beginning November 3rd.

Baker has worked with the program since 1988.

Read the full press release below:

“Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend is excited to share a new season of leadership. Michael Baker will step in as Chief Executive Officer on Monday, November 3, 2025.

Baker began his career with Boys & Girls Clubs in 1988, working in the housing projects of New York. For the past two decades, he has served as CEO at Clubs in Anaheim, California and Santa Barbara, California. His leadership has been marked by significant growth in membership, annual revenue and donations, organizational impact, and community visibility, all achieved with a strong commitment to financial and social responsibility.

For more than 30 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend has been a cornerstone for youth and families in Central Oregon, providing safe spaces, caring mentors, and opportunities for growth. Baker’s broad experience will strengthen and guide the Club as it continues to expand its impact in the community, “I am so excited to be the new CEO for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend. There is a great team in place, and the Board is as dedicated as any board I have ever seen in my career. I can’t wait to get started and meet as many of you incredible supporters as possible,” Baker commented.   

Board Chair Danielle Rosenfield shared, “Michael’s arrival marks an exciting moment for our Club and our community. His deep experience and commitment to youth development will help us serve more children and families across Central Oregon. We also know that leadership at Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend is about more than credentials—it’s about connection, humility, and a shared commitment to our youth-centered culture. We are eager to move forward in partnership with our staff, families, and community toward an even stronger future. We’re especially grateful to Bri Slusser for her steady leadership during this interim period, her care and clarity over the past six months have made us stronger and better prepared for what’s ahead.”

Baker will be in Bend just in time for the organization’s annual Flannel & Frost fundraiser on November 15, which will also mark one of his first opportunities to connect with the Club’s supporters and community champions. There will be additional opportunities to connect with him in the months ahead, and he looks forward to getting to know the community.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend has served Central Oregon youth for more than 30 years. The Club provides safe, supportive spaces, positive relationships, and enriching programs that help kids learn, lead, and thrive. Mission: We provide youth opportunities for growth that inspire and empower them to reach their full potential in the classroom, at home, and in our community.”

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American Red Cross offers 5 spooky tips to keep Halloween safe and fun

KTVZ on October 27, 2025

KTVZ – News Team

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — As Halloween quickly approaches, the American Red Cross is offering five tips to keep you safe while enjoying the holiday.

Below are the tips from the agency:

Trick-or-treaters need to see and be seen.

Try using face makeup instead of a mask. Masks can block little one’s view and make it difficult to see.

Give trick-or-treaters a flashlight to light their way.

Use flame-resistant costumes.

Trick-or-treat routes and Halloween parties often include candles, fire pits, and decorative lighting, which can easily ignite long or flowing costumes. Kids’ costumes often have loose sleeves, capes, or tulle skirts, which are more likely to catch fire — so flame resistance adds vital protection.

Walk only on the sidewalks, not in the street.

If no sidewalk is available, walk at the edge of the roadway, facing traffic.

Look both ways before crossing the street, and cross only at the corner.

Don’t cut across yards or use alleys.

Don’t cross between parked cars.

Drivers – use extra caution. The youngsters may forget to look both ways before crossing.

If you’re handing out treats, turn your porch light on and make sure there’s a clear path to your porch.

Turn on outdoor lights so trick-or-treaters can avoid any obstacles

A grown-up should check the goodies before eating.

Make sure to remove loose candy, open packages and choking hazards.

Discard any items with brand names that you are not familiar with.

Before anyone enjoys their candy haul, adults should inspect all treats and remove any loose candy, open packages, or potential choking hazards. Discard any unfamiliar or unbranded items.

The American Red Cross also urges you to download the free Red Cross First Aid App for instant access to expert first aid advice on your mobile phone.

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Legacy Community Health’s Frank Billingsley Golf Classic Marks 15th Anniversary with Record-Breaking $500,000 Raised for Student Health Programs

CNN Newsource on October 27, 2025

By Francias Page, Jr.

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    October 27, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — On Monday, October 13, 2025, at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugar Land, Texas, Legacy Community Health hosted the 15th Annual Frank Billingsley Golf Classic—a day that blended sunshine, camaraderie, and community impact into one unforgettable event. The sold-out tournament, led by beloved Houston meteorologist and longtime Legacy supporter Frank Billingsley, celebrated fifteen years of generosity and purpose by raising a record-breaking $500,000 to support student health care programs across the Houston area. The cool autumn weather provided the perfect backdrop as golfers gathered early for breakfast tacos, kolaches, and backpack coolers filled with Legacy-branded swag before heading out to play the pristine Pecan and Cypress courses. Sponsor tents dotted the fairways, offering giveaways, refreshments, and friendly encouragement, adding to the event’s lively and philanthropic spirit. Presented by Equitable, Hawkins Laakso, and Pinnacle Environmental Services, the tournament was more than a competition—it was a mission in motion. Each swing, drive, and putt helped support Legacy’s School-Based Health Care Program, which provides primary and behavioral health services directly to students at 39 KIPP, YES Prep, and Galena Park ISD campuses. This essential initiative ensures children can access quality health care without ever leaving their schools, helping them stay healthy, focused, and ready to learn.

After the final scores were tallied, golfers and guests gathered for a lively luncheon filled with laughter, camaraderie, and celebration. Emcee Johnny Bravo kept the energy high as the live auction and raffle brought spirited bidding wars that pushed the fundraising total to an unprecedented half-million dollars—the highest in the event’s fifteen-year history. The top foursomes were recognized for their standout performances, while every participant shared in the satisfaction of supporting Houston’s youth. Fifteen years in, the Frank Billingsley Golf Classic continues to embody the best of Houston’s community spirit—uniting generosity, goodwill, and fun for a cause that matters. Though the only celebrity on the greens was the ever-charming Billingsley himself, the true stars were the sponsors, volunteers, and golfers whose efforts will help expand Legacy’s reach across even more campuses next year. For more than four decades, Legacy Community Health has been a cornerstone of care in the Texas Gulf Coast region, operating 64 locations that provide comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral, and specialty services. As the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Texas and a United Way-affiliated agency since 1990, Legacy continues to innovate and deliver compassionate, judgment-free care to all—regardless of ability to pay. Learn more or support Legacy’s mission at legacycommunityhealth.org

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Houston City College Expands Pathways to Pharmacy Careers with New North Forest Campus Program

CNN Newsource on October 27, 2025

By Francis Page, Jr.

Click here for updates on this story

    October 27, 2025 (Houston Style Magazine) — In another bold stride toward accessible, high-demand workforce training, Houston City College (HCC) has announced the expansion of its Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate Program to the HCC–North Forest campus beginning Spring 2026. The move extends a legacy of healthcare excellence pioneered by HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences, the only HCC campus dedicated exclusively to health professions within the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. Empowering Houston’s Future Health Workforce HCC’s one-semester Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate offers an accelerated route into the healthcare industry, providing students with the skills needed to succeed in Houston’s ever-growing medical marketplace. Designed for anyone with a high school diploma or GED, the program offers a quick and affordable entry point into a field that continues to expand as the city’s population—and its need for healthcare professionals—grows. “It’s an attractive option for anyone looking to start a healthcare career,” said Janet Peña, HCC Pharmacy Technician Program Director. “The demand for pharmacy technicians continues to grow, especially as the population ages. It’s also a great option for those who want to work in healthcare without providing direct patient care.” A Smart Investment in a Stable Career According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level pharmacy technicians can earn a minimum starting salary of $33,000 annually, with higher wages in the Houston region. Peña emphasized that because the program is offered through HCC, students enjoy an affordable tuition model and access to financial aid—making the certificate an investment that quickly pays off. Expanding Access Across Houston The expansion to HCC–North Forest follows the program’s successful debut at HCC Eastside in Spring 2025, which served students south of Interstate 610. Now, residents of northeast Houston will enjoy the same opportunity to train for a healthcare career close to home. “People of all ages want a credential that offers immediate employment and a livable wage,” said Dr. Jeff Gricar, Dean of Health Sciences at HCC Coleman College. “But they also need programs that fit their lives—close to work, close to home, and flexible. That’s exactly why we’re opening the North Forest site.” A Pathway to Lifelong Learning The Pharmacy Technician Retail Certificate is more than just a job credential—it’s the start of a career ladder in healthcare. Many graduates go on to earn Level II certifications, associate degrees, and even bachelor’s degrees in healthcare fields, building on their initial success. “Once they start working, most of our students return to continue their education,” Gricar added. “This program creates a foundation that grows with their ambitions.” Join Houston’s Healthcare Revolution For Houstonians eager to join one of the fastest-growing sectors in the city, this program offers a golden opportunity to begin a career in healthcare without the burden of years-long schooling. Learn more or apply today: WEB: hccs.edu/PharmacyTech • Call: 713-718-7665 • Email: co.PharmacyTech@hccs.edu

About HCC Coleman College Located in the Texas Medical Center, HCC Coleman College for Health Sciences offers more than 20 health-focused certificate and degree programs, including a Bachelor of Applied Technology. Since 1999, the college has set the gold standard for allied health education in Houston. hccs.edu/Coleman About Houston City College HCC is one of the largest singly accredited, open-admission community colleges in the nation, with 14 Centers of Excellence and numerous satellite locations serving Greater Houston. Through workforce training, associate and bachelor’s degrees, and continuing education, HCC prepares individuals to thrive in an increasingly global and technological society. hccs.edu

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Downtown corner house provides spooky sights for passersby

News-Press NOW on October 27, 2025

Kyle Schmidt

ST. JOSEPH, Mo (News-Press NOW) — Traveling in Downtown St. Joseph during October can be quite the sight.

One house on North 5th Street is known for its own spooky sights, drawing traction from passersby.

“Just out of the love for Halloween and showing it off for other people,” homeowner Douglas Lucas said. “We hope other people enjoy it as much as we do.”

Lucas and his wife have been setting up decorations for over 30 years. The couple moved from Arizona to St. Joseph and fell in love with the house on the corner of the street, at the intersection of North 5th and Louis Streets.

The decorations go up by Oct. 1, a commitment that takes two weeks to do, and are taken down on Nov. 1.

As impressive as the display is, Lucas said it tells a story as well.

Many big skeletons on top of the house can draw attention away from the graveyard, to which he said has a gravestone paying homage to a neighbor.

“On the stone we got a homage to our neighbor across the street, Debbie,” Lucas said. “With sayings that we change out every year because she kind of requires it. She gives us friendly advice on how to decorate it.”

An eye catcher that stands out immediately is the giant skeletons on the roof. He said the one skeleton is nicknamed “Pumpkin Head Harvey“, after the Dennis Morgan song.

The couple leaves a hint to come back around Christmas time in one of the corners of the house, where Krampus sits in the window.

“It’s just about giving back to people, a lot of people don’t do it or don’t have the time to do it,” Lucas said. “I have the time and the means and the storage.”

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