MoWest offers glimpse into the solar system with upcoming planetarium show

News-Press NOW on November 6, 2025

Patrick Holleron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts of St. Joseph will want to mark their calendars next week.

The Bushman Planetarium at Missouri Western State University is set to host a dual-showcase of “Nine Planets and Counting” and “Journey to the Stars” starting at 7 p.m. next Friday, Nov. 14.

Participants will take part in an immersive tour exploring the variety of objects that populate the solar system, including an in-depth look at a wide-range of planets, from rocky worlds to gas giants.

The planetarium features a Digistar 4 projection system and a dome that is tilted slightly for easier viewing. The event will feature images captured by telescopes on Earth and in space, combined with never-before-seen images of physics-based simulations.

Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children age 13 and under, students, employees, military, and senior citizens age 60 and up.

Planetarium tickets must be purchased in advance, either online at missouriwestern.edu/planetarium or in person between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Anyone seeking additional information is encouraged to call 816-271-4288 or email planetarium@missouriwestern.edu.

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Sustainable commute: Oregonians log nearly 4,000 trips in annual statewide ‘Get There Challenge’

KTVZ on November 6, 2025

KTVZ

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Commute Options announced Thursday the results from its region’s participation in the annual Get There Challenge, a two-week statewide event encouraging Oregonians to choose alternative transportation modes over driving alone.

Out of 969 total participants statewide, 272 came from the Commute Options service area in Central and Eastern Oregon, logging an incredible 3,905 non-drive-alone trips during the challenge period, the organization said.

Here’s the rest of their announcement: 

The region’s enthusiastic participation accounted for 28% of the total statewide participation, placing Central and Eastern Oregon close behind the Portland metro region. This collective effort not only demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable travel, it also brought significant environmental and economic benefits. 

The most popular transportation modes logged by local participants highlighted the community’s diverse approach to commuting: 

Bike/E-bike: 45% 

Carpool: 16% 

Walking: 12% 

In addition to logging thousands of trips, the challenge successfully brought 75 new users onto the Get There Rewards platform within the Commute Options network, expanding the community of sustainable commuters. 

“We’re thrilled to have wrapped up another successful year of the Get There Challenge. Every year, our region shows up in a big way—and this year was no exception,” said a Commute Options spokesperson, Aoibhe Richardson.

“Central and Eastern Oregon participants accounted for 28% of all challenge trips statewide, which is an incredible testament to our community’s commitment to sustainable travel. The stats from the challenge make it clear that even small changes in how we get around can have a big impact—reducing Co2 emissions, saving money, and easing congestion across our region.” 

The collective action across the state delivered a significant impact, including: 

44.7 tons of CO2 reduced 

$78,000 saved by participants choosing alternative modes 

15,982 drive-alone trips replaced with sustainable travel options 

To recognize the dedication of participants, 25 prizes were distributed to randomly selected winners throughout the challenge, courtesy of generous local sponsors: Jackson’s Corner, Cuppa Yo, Fix and Repeat, and Burgerville. 

Commute Options looks forward to building on this momentum and continuing to support sustainable, safe, and efficient transportation options throughout the region. Get involved with the ongoing Get There Rewards by visiting https://www.commuteoptions.org/get-there-rewards/.  

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About Commute Options: 

Commute Options is a non-profit based out of Bend, Oregon, dedicated to transportation options that connect people of all ages to the places they go – employees to their workplaces, students to their schools, and neighbors within their communities. They champion active transportation and infrastructure improvements, fostering essential partnerships, and educating the community on transportation options, working towards healthier individuals, a cleaner environment, and a stronger economy. Visit Commute Options Website 

About the Get There Challenge: 

The Get There Challenge is an annual, two-week event in Oregon that encourages residents to use sustainable transportation for their daily trips. Participants are challenged to drive alone less often and instead choose alternative options such as walking, biking, taking public transit, carpooling, or working remotely. The goal is to promote a healthier, more affordable lifestyle while reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality across the state. Learn more about the Get There Challenge here. 

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Callaway County man accused of threatening to kill tree trimmers

KMIZ on November 6, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Callaway County man was charged with two counts of first-degree harassment after he allegedly threatened to kill two workers who were ordered to trim trees for Callaway Electric Cooperative.

Christopher Cockrum, 45, of Fulton, is being held at the Callaway County Jail without bond. A mugshot was not immediately available and a hearing has not been scheduled.

Deputies were called to the 6900 block of Route J at 9:42 a.m. after Cockrum allegedly threatened to kill the victims if they did not leave, according to the probable cause statement.

The victims told law enforcement that they were in the area to trim trees around a service line, the statement says. The workers had pulled into the driveway of a residence, the statement says.

Chief Deputy Curtis Hall told ABC 17 News that Cockrum was taken into custody without incident. Hall said deputies left the area around 3:45 p.m.

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Former Doolittle cop charged with several child sex crimes

KMIZ on November 6, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A former officer of the Doolittle Police Department has been charged with several child sex crimes.

Carl Swanson, of St. James, was charged in Phelps County with first-degree child molestation, second-degree statutory rape and second-degree statutory sodomy. A warrant was served on Thursday and he posted a $250,000 bond, according to court filings. A hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25.

The probable cause statement says that Swanson began having sexual contact with the victim when they were as young as 13 years old and that the assaults occurred over a period of several years. The victim alleged they exchanged sexual acts for favors.

Statement says Swanson allegedly assaulted the child while they were at his office at the Doolittle Police Department and that explicit photos of the victim were taken by Swanson inside DPD’s garage. Text messages between the two allegedly also acknowledged the assaults occurring.

Swanson was also charged with endangering the welfare in 2024 death of child, who died from injuries they suffered after they were submerged in water in a backyard pool in 2022.

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Friends, family of Columbia man detained by ICE ‘cautiously hopeful’ after court hearing

KMIZ on November 6, 2025

Mitchell Kaminski

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Columbia man detained by ICE in September after returning from a trip to Europe had his first court hearing on Thursday. 

Owen Ramsingh — who has had a green card since the 1980s, according to his family — had a court date set for Thursday, Nov. 6 after being detained at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport upon his return from visiting family in the Netherlands. He is being held at a facility in El Paso, Texas.

In an update posted on Facebook, a family friend wrote Ramsingh’s attorneys met with the judge, who requested a few specific documents not originally anticipated in the case.

Samantha Gage Bryan — who is an administrator of the Facebook group made in support of Ramsingh — wrote the legal team is confident it can provide the requested materials. If submitted, the judge has indicated he may “terminate the removal proceedings,” which would allow Ramsingh to begin the process of returning to Columbia.

“While we don’t have a final answer yet, this is a very encouraging development,” the social media post reads. However, the post says ICE still has up to 30 days to appeal, so the outcome isn’t settled.

As of now, family and supporters remain cautiously optimistic. They continue to raise legal-fund support and awareness of Ramsingh’s case.

Ramsingh was originally given a court date of Oct. 15, but the family claims attorneys later told them that date was a “gingerbread date.” His family told ABC 17 News in late October that he was not eligible to ask for a bond hearing because he was labeled as an “arriving alien” when the Department of Homeland Security filed his paperwork. 

Ramsingh has lived in the U.S. since moving here as a child and was initially issued a green card as a child of a U.S. Citizen in 1986, which has since been renewed. According to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, he was detained because of past convictions for possession of marijuana and cocaine.

Court records obtained by ABC 17 News show Ramsingh was charged with drug possession in Omaha, Nebraska, in 1998 when he was 17. He pleaded guilty the next year to attempting to commit a felony. The following year, records show he was cited for having fewer than an ounce of marijuana in Nebraska and fined $100.

Check back for updates.

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Sweet music: Bend’s Breedlove Guitars is donating 75 guitars to six area middle and high schools

KTVZ on November 6, 2025

KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend guitar manufacturer Breedlove Guitars will donate 75 guitars to middle and high schools throughout the Bend-La Pine School District, Economic Development for Central Oregon announced Thursday. 

“This collaboration between Breedlove and the school district was facilitated by EDCO as part of an ongoing effort to strengthen community partnerships that support education as well as local businesses,” the organization said.

“The donation reflects Breedlove’s deep commitment to nurturing music programs and inspiring the next generation of musicians in Central Oregon,” they added.

As part of the program, Breedlove co-owners Pete Mroz and Shannon Pollard will present the instruments to the music faculty and perform for students in a special ceremony on Thursday, November 13th, at 7 p.m. in the Mountain View High School band room. 

The donation will provide 75 guitars, valued at a total of nearly $65,000, to six schools within the district, including Mountain View High School, Bend Senior High School, High Desert Middle School, Caldera High School, Summit High School, and Three Rivers School. In addition to the donation, Breedlove will serve as the official repair and service provider for all the instruments. 

“EDCO is proud to help connect companies like Breedlove with opportunities that make a lasting impact on our community,” said Don Myll, EDCO’s Bend area director. “This partnership highlights the creativity, generosity and community spirit that make Central Oregon such a special place to live and work.” 

Breedlove Guitars, a long-established brand in Central Oregon, was recently acquired by Pete Mroz and Shannon Pollard. Mroz is a nationally recognized singer-songwriter and former standout on NBC’s The Voice. Pollard, grandson of country music legend Eddy Arnold and founder of Plowboy Records, brings decades of experience as an entrepreneur in the music industry. 

“We are honored to give back to the community that has supported Breedlove for so many years,” said Pete Mroz, co-owner of Breedlove Guitars. “Music education opens doors for creativity and connection, and we hope these guitars inspire students to explore their passion and express themselves through music.” 

Keith Chaiet, Director of Bands at Mountain View High School, said, “Learning how to play music plays a vital role in every student’s growth, fostering creativity, confidence, and connection. This donation from Breedlove Guitars makes a tremendous difference for our schools, helping ensure every student has the opportunity to learn and play.

“Many of our schools simply don’t have enough instruments for all who want to participate,” Chaiet added. “Breedlove’s generosity not only provides access to quality guitars, but also reflects a true investment in our community and a deep commitment to music education.” 

For more information about Breedlove Guitars, visit breedlovemusic.com. To learn more about EDCO’s work supporting business and community growth, visit edcoinfo.com. 

About Economic Development for Central Oregon  

EDCO is a non-profit corporation supported by private and public members and stakeholders, whose mission is to create middle-class jobs in Central Oregon by: recruiting new employers to move to the region; helping entrepreneurs start new, scalable businesses; and working with businesses that are already here to grow their operations. For more information, visit www.edcoinfo.com. 

About Breedlove Guitars For more than 35 years, Breedlove Guitars has set the standard for distinctive acoustic instruments that blend artistry, innovation, and playability. Rooted in craftsmanship and inspired by the evolving needs of modern musicians, Breedlove designs and builds its guitars in its renowned USA Custom Shop—where tone, feel, and performance unite to create instruments for a lifetime of music. Learn more at  BreedloveGuitars.com 

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Streets Department ramps up snow plow training in preparation for winter

News-Press NOW on November 6, 2025

Patrick Holleron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Snow plow crews are staying prepared for whatever mother nature potentially throws their way this winter.

St. Joseph’s Street Maintenance Department is plowing ahead with training for dozens of workers who will take to the streets this winter for snow removal operations.

Thursday’s training, held at the facility off Stockyards Expressway, featured a combination of classroom sessions to review snow routes, department policies and hands on training to operate the snow plows.

“We do this hands-on training because guys need to get a feel for what it feels like to drive a snow plow,” Senior Field Supervisor Steve Kendall said. “We love to put the plow down on the ground and get familiar with (the plows) before they get out on the street on their own.”

This year’s training class included more than a dozen trainees from the year before, jumping from 20 to around 32. The bigger group will help provide more flexibility when scheduling people to clear roads and snow paths.

In addition to operating the plows during winter operations, street crews will also be de-icing roads and assisting emergency services such as ambulances and dispatchers.

“Last year was a little bit shorter (for our group),” Kendall said. “This year we’re looking pretty good on boys. We have a bigger crew this year than we did last year.”

The work shifts for crews will be split into two 12-hour periods that switch at 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

The crews are called upon when an Emergency Snow Ordinance is enacted by the city, with multiple phases in place. Phase I is issued once the first snowfall occurs and stays in effect through the end of winter. Phase II is issued if 2+ inches of snow has fallen and/or a significant amount is expected.

The training comes after last year’s winter blizzard in January made some notable history, being the first time since December 2009 that St. Joseph and nearby areas witnessed double-digit snowfall.

The National Weather Service confirmed 16 inches of snow fell during the event in St. Joseph, while nearby areas had 14 to 16 inches.

Despite historic snowfall last year, the event didn’t force any significant changes in operations or training, which is conducted every fall.

“The blizzard was really nothing out of the normal, it was just more snow than normal,” Kendall said. “You go out (to plow) and it’s no different than any other snow, just a little deeper.”

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Police: Columbia man who rode motorcycle in Sunday Range Line Street crash dies

KMIZ on November 6, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Columbia Police Department has confirmed that a man who was hit in a crash on Range Line Street this past weekend has died.

Police wrote that Ethan Cash, 25, of Columbia, has died from his injuries on Thursday. The post says the crash involved multiple vehicles and a vehicle heading south on Range Line made an eastward turn on Kennesaw Ridge Road into the path of Cash’s motorcycle.

Police wrote that the next-of-kin have been notified.

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Idaho Falls Regional Airport confirms normal operations despite national flight reductions

KIFI on November 6, 2025

Seth Ratliff

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Good news for travelers flying out of Idaho Falls, the FAA’s new 10% flight cuts will not impact the Idaho Falls Regional Airport directly.

IDA Leadership confirmed this morning that flights out of the airport will continue as scheduled. However, some connecting airports and flights across the country could see delays or schedule changes as a result.

“Our team will continue monitoring the situation and share updates as they become available,” IDA leadership said on Facebook.

The airport is advising all travelers to check their airline’s app or website for updates and information before coming to the airport.

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MSHP vehicle involved in crash with moped rider; man seriously injured

KMIZ on November 6, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Missouri State Highway Patrol vehicle was involved in a crash with a moped at the intersection of East Elm Street and Clark Avenue in Jefferson City, according to a crash report from MSHP.

The report says the crash occurred as the trooper – a 37-year-old Jefferson City man — tried making a left turn and a Zhejiang Dongpai moped travelled across the road. The moped was driven by a 59-year-old Jefferson City man.

The 59-year-old man was not wearing a helmet and he was brought to University Hospital by ambulance after suffering serious injuries, the report says.  

The patrol vehicle – a 2022 Ford F150 – had minor damage, while the moped was totaled, the report says.

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