Deschutes County’s ‘I Voted’ sticker student contest for 2026 election will mark America’s 250th birthday

KTVZ on November 5, 2025

KTVZ

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Next year, the United States will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

To commemorate this milestone, the Deschutes County Elections Office is hosting an “I Voted” sticker contest for the 2026 elections.

:Students in grades K-12 are encouraged to design a sticker that celebrates our right to vote,” the county said in Tuesday’s announcement.

Winning designs will be printed on stickers for 2026 voters and be featured on the Deschutes County Voter Pamphlet cover.

Contest winners will be divided into two categories:

Elementary school (K-5): Winner’s sticker will be featured for the 2026 Primary Election in May.

Middle-high school (6-12): Winner’s sticker will be featured for the General Election in November.

Sticker design submissions will be accepted through Jan. 31, 2026. Winners will be announced in February.

Here are the contest rules:

Design must fit within the circular template. It will be resized to fit a two-inch diameter “I Voted” sticker.

Design must be hand rendered. No digital, AI generated, or altered images will be accepted.

Design should be nonpartisan and not reference any political party.

Design should include the colors red, white and blue.

Design must be original. No clip art, reused imagery, or copyrighted images should be used.

The contest entry form and submission instructions can be found on the Deschutes County Clerk’s website.

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McKenzie Pass fully closes for the season on Thursday – and ODOT says there’s a change this year

KTVZ on November 5, 2025

KTVZ

(Update: Adding video)

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — With winter approaching, the Oregon Department of Transportation says its crews will close the east side of McKenzie Pass, Oregon Highway 242, on Thursday, marking the start of the full seasonal closure.

The west side of the pass closed three weeks ago, on Tuesday, Oct. 14.

New this year: The east-side gate has been moved a mile closer to Sisters, to provide a safer turnaround area for drivers.

Here’s the rest of Tuesday’s ODOT announcement:

McKenzie Pass is a scenic, secondary highway that closes each year as winter weather approaches. Due to weather, cost, and logistics, ODOT does not maintain the route through the winter, focusing instead on keeping main highways plowed, open, and safe. During the closure, vehicles are prohibited beyond the gates.  

The annual seasonal closure is a highway closure, not a closure of public lands. Non-vehicle recreational users, such as skiers, snowshoers, and pedestrians going beyond the closed gates do so at their own risk.

The U.S. Forest Service has published guidelines for recreating in a National Forest. Recreationalists choosing to visit the area should follow the USFS guidelines and consider the potential risks.

Because the road is not maintained in winter, conditions can be hazardous. There are no services or cell coverage, and weather can change rapidly. As snow melts in spring, recreational users may encounter fallen trees, rockslides and damaged pavement.

McKenzie Pass became a seasonal scenic highway in 1962 with the completion of the Clear Lake-Belknap Springs section of Oregon Highway 126.

Even during its time as the main route between the Willamette Valley and Central Oregon, the narrow, twisting roadway and high elevation (5,325 feet) made the highway too difficult to maintain and keep clear during the winter months.

To see what routes are open over the mountains and to view current road and weather conditions, visit TripCheck.com or call 511.

More information on McKenzie Pass, OR 242, can be found on ODOT’s website. 

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Jefferson City Council approves $25k for security upgrades to city hall

KMIZ on November 5, 2025

ABC 17 News Team

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Jefferson City Council on Monday night reallocated $25,000 from recent bicentennial events to make security upgrades to city hall.

City staff said they want to buy portable security scanners and the city’s finance director is working with the Jefferson City Police Department to determine their options.

No decision has been made on the type of scanner, or the number of scanners that could be purchased.

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South Coast AQMD to Host Dust Summit in Palm Desert

KESQ on November 5, 2025

City News Service

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – Air quality regulators will host a summit in Palm Desert this week to discuss the health impacts and environmental factors of dust.

The event, hosted by the South Coast Air Quality Management District in partnership with Riverside County Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday at the auditorium on UC Riverside’s Palm Desert campus, at 75080 Frank Sinatra Drive.

It will feature presentations, panel discussions and an interactive Q&A session from experts and community leaders.   

Dust pollution affects the Coachella Valley through high winds across the desert, which impacts air quality and overall quality of life, officials said.

The agency said it will outline a three-part plan approved by its Governing Board, which includes scientific research led by faculty at UC Riverside and UC San Diego/Scripps Institution of Oceanography, targeted strategies to develop area-specific control measures and implementation of on-the-ground mitigation projects.   

The SCAQMD is an agency responsible for improving air quality in several counties, including the Coachella Valley.   Attendees unable to make it in person may view the summit via Zoom ataqmd.zoomgov.com/j/1611757966.

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Two Los Angeles men arrested for burglary in Nipomo

KEYT on November 5, 2025

Caleb Nguyen

NIPOMO, Calif. (KEYT) – San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested two Los Angeles men for a pharmacy burglary just after 4:30 a.m. Tuesday morning.

SLOCSO deputies, alongside CHP officers, arrived at the pharmacy and chased one suspect on foot before apprehending him.

The second suspect tried to drive away before SLOCSO deputies detained the driver at a traffic stop and determined that the car used was connected to the burglary.

Evidence in the car connected the vehicle to the crime after a preliminary investigation and SLOCSO deputies identified both men responsible for a separate pharmacy burglary in Templeton.

SLOCSO deputies believe the Templeton burglary took place before the Nipomo burglary on Tuesday morning.

SLOCSO deputies identified a 32-year-old Los Angeles man and a 41-year-old Los Angeles man and arrested both for burglary and conspiracy.

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Two hospitalized after an alleged drowsy cement truck driver causes multi-vehicle crash at 17th & Yellowstone

KIFI on November 5, 2025

Seth Ratliff

UPDATE:

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Two people were hospitalized after a cement truck driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing a significant multi-vehicle collision at the busy intersection of 17th Street/Pancheri Drive and Yellowstone Highway this afternoon, November 4th.

The crash took place around 3:52 p.m., according to the Idaho Falls Police Department. Police say the cement truck was traveling southbound on Yellowstone Highway when the driver allegedly lost control, failing to maintain its lane as it entered the intersection.

The truck first struck two vehicles waiting in the northbound turning lane: a Dodge Dakota and a Ford F150, which were preparing to turn left onto Pancheri Drive. The impact then sent the cement truck into a Toyota Avalon in the inside northbound lane. This led to a chain reaction, pushing the Avalon into a Dodge Dart, which subsequently hit a dark-colored SUV.

The drivers of the Dodge Dakota and the Toyota Avalon were taken by ambulance to local hospitals. IFPD spokesperson Jessica Clements reports their injuries appear to be non-life-threatening.

The driver of the cement truck told IFPD officers he had been drowsy and had fallen asleep at the wheel. The investigation is ongoing. Traffic was heavily impacted, with roadways remaining blocked for just over two hours before reopening.

The driver of the cement truck told IFPD that he was drowsy and fell asleep at the wheel. The investigation into the crash is being handled by IFPD and is ongoing at this time. Roadways were blocked for just over two hours and are now open and clear again.

ORIGINAL:

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — Idaho Falls Police and Fire are currently on the scene of a multi-vehicle crash involving a cement mixer that has completely closed the intersection of 17th Street (Pancheri) and Yellowstone Highway.

The incident was first reported at 3:52 p.m. Traffic is heavily impacted, and IFPD is strongly encouraging drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes immediately.

At this time, there is no information available regarding the cause of the crash or any potential resulting injuries.

IFPD confirms they will issue a public update once the roadway has been successfully reopened. Furthermore, because the crash occurred on Yellowstone Hwy., the Idaho State Police may assume responsibility for the following investigation, and IFPD noted they will share further details as the situation develops.

This is a developing news story. Local News 8 will provide an update as we learn more information from investigators and first responders.

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Chaddy’s debuts new cafe at Buchanan County Courthouse

News-Press NOW on November 5, 2025

Patrick Holleron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Hot and fresh food is back once again at the Buchanan County Courthouse.

Chaddy’s Food Truck has officially transitioned from a food truck to a cafe, opening up shop on Monday for the many travelers and regulars who visit the courthouse.

“It’s finally here and it’s fantastic,” owner Chad Watson said. “We’ve had a lot of good feedback in the last two days. And we are looking forward to serving people at the courthouse.”

Watson said they had roughly 60 customers file in on the first day to try their signature comfort food, and many were left impressed. Popular menu items include smash burgers, chicken tenders, Philly cheesesteaks and other sandwiches like BLT’s and Reubens.

In making the move from food truck to cafe, one aspect Watson emphasized was reduced costs of having the physical space versus the automobile, which allows for lower menu prices.

“There’s lots and lots of costs (with a food truck). That’s why my menu pricing has dropped quite a bit,” Watson said. “We’re here to make money of course, but we have to be fair and we have to be honest with our customers.”

Previously a food truck in Northwest Missouri for the last year and a half, Chaddy’s quickly grew to become a fixture at local events and festivals in Northwest Missouri, Kansas City and St. Joseph, operating primarily out of the Deluxe Truck Stop on Packers Avenue until making the move Downtown.

As they continue to get settled, Watson — a longtime veteran of the food industry — hopes to start having fun events and ways for customers to get involved such as meal of the day suggestions and free meals on customers birthdays.

“When people come in, they can put their name in a basket up front,” Watson said. “Every Friday we’re going to pull the name of the basket. And whatever special meal they want is what we will try to prepare. We’re also going to do birthdays. If it’s your birthday, I’m going to buy you lunch. I think that’s birthdays are special and I want to make everybody’s birthday a special occasion.”

Chaddy’s is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is located in the basement level of the courthouse.

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Benton promotes Bailey to fill vacant girls basketball job

News-Press NOW on November 5, 2025

News-Press NOW

By: Chris Roush

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) — The Benton Cardinals have found their new girls basketball coach. 

KQ2 confirmed with the St. Joseph School District Tuesday afternoon that Rebecca Bailey has been named the new head coach. 

Bailey has served as the Cardinals’ assistant coach and was going to be the assistant coach again this season before the departure of Ross Barelli last month. 

District officials said that they could not comment on Barelli’s departure due to it being a personnel issue. 

The Cardinals finished second in Class 4 last season with a 27-4 record.

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Krug Park moves into the holiday season

News-Press NOW on November 5, 2025

News-Press NOW

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) — Krug Park Drive is now closed as the park transitions into the holiday season.

Krug Park is preparing for the return of its annual Holiday Park. Construction crews will use Krug Park Drive to move supplies throughout the park to install the attraction.

With construction on Krug Tower and the Holiday Park underway, Special Event Communication Coordinator with St. Joseph Parks and Recreation, Jessica Oshel, addressed the concerns surrounding the topic. 

“The construction won’t affect Holiday Park. Holiday Park is going to run as much as normal as we can,” said Oshel. “There’ll be little things here and there because of the construction with the renovation that is going on; we’re just adjusting and putting up around.”

The circular drive at Krug Park will be open to visitors who want to access the lagoon and lily pond.

The annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28 at Krug Park Drive. 

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City finalizes field of candidates for St. Joseph mayor, city council primaries next February

News-Press NOW on November 5, 2025

Cameron Montemayor

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — City officials have confirmed the full field of candidates vying for mayor, city council and municipal judge in next year’s elections.

All eight city council seats, including mayor and municipal judge, will be up for election next year, a consequential voting cycle for residents and local government.

The primary election is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, Feb. 3, followed by the general election on Tuesday, April 7.

Mayor candidates

St. Joseph’s incumbent mayor and three new challengers have thrown their hat into the ring to become the next mayor. New challengers include Jonathan McClain, Larry Miller and Kenneth Reeder.

John Josendale — incumbent, seeking second term in office

Jonathan McClain — seeking first term in office

Larry Miller — seeking first term in office

Kenneth Reeder — seeking first term in office

City Council candidates — At-large seats (4)

The upcoming race for at-large City Council seats (4) will feature four new challengers and four incumbent councilmembers.

Collin Clibon — seeking first term in office

Frederick Martin — seeking first term in office

Gary Wilkinson — new challenger, former city councilman

Dakota Allen — seeking first term in office

Marty Novak — incumbent, seeking third term in office

Randy S. Schultz — incumbent, seeking second term in office

Jeff Schomburg — incumbent, seeking second term in office

Kenton Randolph — incumbent, seeking second term in office

City Council candidates — District seats (4)

Elections for City Council district seats will feature two notable races for both District 3 and District 4.

On the other hand, incumbent councilmembers in District 1 and District 2 will run unopposed.

District 1

Madison Davis — incumbent, seeking third term in office

District 2

Jason Eslinger — incumbent, seeking first full term in office

District 3

Dana Stickley — seeking first term in office

Andrew Trout — incumbent, seeking second term in office

District 4

Michael G. Grimm — incumbent, seeking second term in office

Russell Moore — challenger, former city councilman

Municipal Judge

In the election for municipal judge, incumbent Laura Chavez is set to run unopposed.

A native of St. Joseph and graduate of Bishop LeBlond High School, Missouri Western State University and Creighton University, Chavez was appointed to the position by City Councilmembers in April following the death of judge Ted Elo.

Chavez worked as a prosecutor in St. Joseph for 10 years before taking office.

Recap

With all city council positions and mayor up for election, the positions of mayor and four at-large councilmembers will be elected to serve four-year terms, while the four district councilmembers will be elected to an initial two-year term.

Any official who receives a majority of votes during the primary election will automatically be appointed to office.

Correction: A previous version of this article listed Madison Davis as seeking a second term for City Council. Councilmember Davis is seeking a third term. News-Press NOW apologizes for this error.

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