El Centro Public Library holds sign language story time

KYMA on July 15, 2026

Jessamyn Dodd

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA) – The El Centro Public Library held a story time for children, led by American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter Nathan Enrique.

The presentation included story time, book giveaways, and a sign language lesson, with easy signs that children can learn.

Library staff says the event helps introduce the community to sign language and promotes inclusion. This is the second ASL story time the library has hosted.

“We’re finding that the community…this is one of the needs of the community and we’re always trying to help the community out and fulfill the needs that they have,” El Centro Library Director Carla Mason said.

Enriquez said, “It’s to bring awareness to deaf culture and American Sign Language.”

In addition to the sign language event, the library has been hosting some other popular fun experiences for children.

One event brought animals in the library to give kids a chance to get up close and even pet some of them.

“So we have this new Zubargo company and people just went nuts over it. We had all kinds of animals that we haven’t had before, like a beautiful hawk that spread its wings,” Mason explained.

They will also host a Planetarium Day Wednesday. On Thursday, colorful lion dancers are set to perform.

The last week of the Summer Reading Program promises parties for both young and adult readers, complete with prizes.

“They’re given different gifts, usually books and also gift cards, so they can go buy books places or Target,” Mason said.

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Yuma researchers fight resurgence of destructive crop pest

KYMA on July 15, 2026

Manoah Tuiasosopo

YUMA, AZ – (KYMA, KECY) A destructive crop pest is making a comeback in Yuma, putting some of the region’s most valuable vegetable crops at risk.

Researchers at the University of Arizona’s Yuma Agricultural Center are studying the resurgence of the Diamondback Moth (DBM) — a pest known for damaging brassica crops like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.

The pest previously caused major problems for growers during a widespread outbreak in 2016. After several years of lower activity, researchers say the Diamondback Moth returned in large numbers starting in late 2023.

“Growers are consistently telling us there is a control failure with insecticides,” said Rosan Adhikari, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Arizona. “They are discarding their whole field because of the DBM damage.”

Researchers say controlling the pest has become increasingly challenging. While Yuma’s extreme summer heat creates a natural break when crop production slows, the moths can return during the fall and spring growing seasons.

Scientists believe the pests may be entering the region through two main pathways: incoming vegetable transplants from areas with year-round production, and weather patterns that carry moths north from Mexico.

To better understand the problem, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Wilfrid Calvin’s research team is collecting live Diamondback Moth larvae from infested fields and testing how they respond to commonly used insecticides.

The team uses two laboratory testing methods to measure the pest’s response. One exposes larvae to the maximum legal field rate of a chemical, while another tests different chemical strengths to determine how much is needed to kill half of the population.

Early results show diamides — a widely used class of insecticides — are becoming less effective against Diamondback Moth larvae in laboratory tests.

Researchers say the pest’s ability to adapt is a major concern, making prevention and management strategies critical for growers.

One recommendation is rotating insecticide groups, since different chemicals target different parts of the insect’s biology.

“Rotate the insecticide group,” Adhikari said. “Some target the nervous system, some target muscles, some target the digestive system. Growers need to rotate those so insects cannot adapt.”

The research team is continuing to study Diamondback Moth populations across Arizona and California, with plans to conduct additional field trials.

The goal is to create a seasonal guide for growers, helping them determine which treatments to use and when to switch strategies to better protect Yuma’s vegetable industry.

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Absent parties spark frustration at Oscar’s, Plaza Theatre public forum

KESQ on July 15, 2026

Luis Avila

UPDATE 7/15 8:04 P.M.: A public forum meant to ease the ongoing dispute between Oscar’s Palm Springs and the Plaza Theatre instead highlighted frustration over who wasn’t there.

The forum, organized by LMC Group founder Kristen Carroll, was intended to bring together representatives from Oscar’s Palm Springs, the Plaza Theatre, Oak View Group and the City of Palm Springs to discuss the ongoing disagreement over the Plaza Theatre’s use of space inside the Oscar’s building.

While Dan Gore, Oscar’s owner, and dozens of community members attended, representatives from Oak View Group, the Plaza Theatre and the City of Palm Springs did not.

The absence drew criticism from audience members, many of whom questioned why key parties chose not to participate.

“It’s disappointing to not see the rest of the players here,” Dan Gore said. “I had a lot of support here. People were here to listen and I think that’s important.”

Carroll said she was encouraged by the community’s turnout, even though the discussion did not include all sides.

“What surprised me was the passion that was there and how much it meant to people,” Carroll said. “The seed was planted. People aren’t always ready to hear that right away, but if a seed is planted, it takes time for it to grow.”

She said the strong public response could eventually encourage the absent parties to join future discussions.

“When the groundswell of the community gets to the point of a critical mass, you can’t ignore it anymore,” Carroll said.

Carroll said she plans to continue reaching out to all parties involved until she gets answers and plans to organize additional public forums.

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) — A public forum hopes to bring together those at the center of the ongoing dispute between Oscar’s Palm Springs and the Plaza Theatre.

The forum follows News Channel 3’s reporting last week over the theater’s request to continue using space inside the Oscar’s building. Gore had said negotiations broke down because the compensation offered for the space known as the “Green Room” was not enough.

Ahead of Wednesday’s discussion, Gore said he hopes holding the conversation publicly can help move the issue forward.

“Let’s talk about it publicly. I’ve reached out to them multiple times in the past couple years,” Gore said.

The forum is being organized by LMC Group founder Kristen Carroll, who said she wanted to create an opportunity for dialogue before the disagreement creates a lasting divide within the Palm Springs community.

“It’s really about using this one opportunity of discourse to find a way to how do we handle these things and raise each other up,” Carroll said.

Invitations have been extended to representatives from Oscar’s Palm Springs, the Plaza Theatre, Oak View Group, the City of Palm Springs, and other community leaders. As of Tuesday, Gore is the only key participant who has confirmed he will attend.

Carroll acknowledged some invited parties may choose not to participate but said the discussion will move forward regardless.

“I’m prepared for either scenario. I really hope they do. I understand if there’s hesitation,” Carroll said. “My goal is to represent anyone who’s not there in a spirit of openness and to advocate for everyone in a spirit of collaboration and moving forward.”

Whether or not everyone shows up, both Carroll and Gore said they remain hopeful the conversation can lead to common ground.

“For the sake of the community and city… we must continue to work together to come to some sort of agreement where we both succeed.”

News Channel 3 also reached out to Oak View Group. A spokesperson declined a request for an interview and said they could not confirm whether representatives plan to attend Wednesday night’s forum.

The community conversation begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Palm Springs Cultural Center and is open to the public.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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County board continues contracts with nonprofits for homeless services

KESQ on July 15, 2026

City News Service

RIVERSIDE (CNS) – The Board of Supervisors today approved agreements with three nonprofits for the continuation of homeless shelter and related services throughout Riverside County.

In a 3-0 vote without comment — with Supervisor Manuel Perez arriving late and Supervisor Chuck Washington absent — the board signed off on the county Department of Housing & Workforce Solutions’ request for $1.21 million in the current fiscal year to support operations at the Indio-based CoachellaValley Rescue Mission, Path of Life Ministries of Riverside and Valley Restart Shelter in Hemet.

A separate but related compact was additionally approved with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments to administer the program directly involved with emergency homeless shelter referrals.

All of the agreements are set to run from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2031, though they may be abrogated at any time. Total appropriations required over that period will be just over $6 million, originating from the General Fund, according to documents posted to the board’s agenda.

“Shelters provide immediate access to safe, temporary housing and supportive services for vulnerable populations,” the Department of Housing & Workforce Solutions said. “The county has provided these agencies (in the past) with a minimum level of funding to support their year-round operations. Each agency relies on alternative funding sources to fully support their operations.”

Officials said continued access to the homeless assistance programs connect people experiencing homelessness with an array of services — not only temporary shelter — about which many displaced people may be unaware.

First responders, street outreach teams and various community organizations are involved with referrals to the nonprofits’ services.

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Dozens of inmates at Centinela State Prison earn national job certifications

KYMA on July 15, 2026

Lynette Niebla

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) — New opportunities and second chances are opening up for dozens of incarcerated individuals in Imperial County. The California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) held a graduation ceremony Tuesday morning at Centinela State Prison, celebrating inmates who are actively rewriting their futures behind bars.

The ceremony honored 25 hard-working individuals who completed rigorous apprenticeships and earned nationally recognized job certifications. The training programs focus on high-demand fields, including Healthcare Facilities Maintenance, specialized TPC training courses, and the fabric industry.

For the graduates, the ceremony was the culmination of years of grit and determination.

“We’re here in celebration of all the hard work that we’ve been doing for these last couple of years,” said graduate Douglas Lopez.

Lopez, who jumped at the chance to enroll the moment the programs became available, noted that the real-world training environment offered unexpected personal growth. “It wasn’t a letdown. It was, matter of fact, everything that I thought it would be,” Lopez shared. “Being able to work with other people that I never would’ve received an opportunity to work with… helped me personally just develop skills that I needed or thought I had lost. It’s been a blessing honestly, a big blessing.”

CALCTRA currently provides vital real-world job skills to more than 5,800 incarcerated individuals in prisons across California.

The atmosphere inside Centinela State Prison was electric on Tuesday, packed with family members, friends, and program leaders cheering from the audience.

Facility leaders took turns at the podium to remind the graduates that their mistakes do not define their potential.

“Can’t do anything about your past, but you’re definitely doing something about your future,” Centinela State Prison Chief Deputy Warden Iainnardo Black told the class. “Be proud of that.”

CALCTRA Director Suzie Changus pushed the graduates to keep their momentum going as they look toward re-entry. “If you’re willing to take one meaningful step on your own behalf towards making a dream come true, the universe will meet you where you are and help you take two,” Changus said.

The graduation also featured a powerful appearance by former graduate Tony Curtis. Now a celebrated success story of the program on the outside, Curtis returned behind bars to serve as living proof of what is possible upon release.

“Yes, it matters,” Curtis emphasized to the crowd. “There’s real opportunity on the other side. There’s real success on the other side of this opportunity, and you guys are here today because you understand that.”

Beyond the personal milestones achieved by the graduates, state officials highlighted the massive, long-term societal and economic benefits of in-prison vocational training. According to data tracked by the agency, these programs dramatically reduce the likelihood of ex-offenders returning to custody.

“Eighty-five percent of the folks that participate in our programs for at least six months do not return to prison,” Director Changus revealed. “So they don’t come back to custody, which is a huge savings for the state. But it also saves in their ability to go home, contribute to their families, contribute to their future, and change the cycle of crime.”

The industry-accredited certifications earned by the class are specifically structured to qualify individuals for immediate job placement in high-demand fields the moment they finish serving their time.

For the 25 graduates celebrating at Centinela State Prison, those savings, successes, and a true fresh start are officially within reach.

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ISU Preps for Hosting Idaho International Choral Festival July 14-18

KIFI on July 15, 2026

Hadley Bodell

POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – Idaho State University is hosting one of the biggest events of the year in Pocatello, the Idaho International Choral Festival (IICF). The event brings elite choirs from around the world together for concerts, rehearsals, Idaho exploration, and free performances.

Since 1999, the IICF has brought people and cultures together through music every three years. The five days of the festival are spent singing, learning from other choirs, and doing activities in the Pocatello area.

“They love making music with other musicians. We are a non-competitive festival, so they’re not competing against each other,” said Barbara Kurtz, Executive Director of IICF. “They’re singing their own songs but also singing together, and they always say they enjoy that camaraderie and relaxed atmosphere.”

The festival also enlists the help of host families in Pocatello who open their homes for the week for international traveling singers. This is the first year a choir from Kazakhstan has participated. Seventeen volunteers help to make the events happen all week, including multiple concerts at Jenson Grand Concert Hall.

The festivities kick off on Wednesday, July 15, with the opening ceremonies at Pebble Creek Ski Area. Each choir will perform one number, and the mayors of Pocatello and Chubbuck will attend. Singers in the choirs will even be able to ride the chairlift up the mountain and hike back down.

Some of the choirs will also perform at Goranson Hall in the Fine Arts Building on campus. Tickets are still available at the door or online. From Wednesday through Friday, there will be nightly concerts at both venues starting at 7. Saturday evening will have the Gala Concert to finish off the incredible week of music.

“They’ll do things like swim at Ross Park and visit the Natural History Museum, do some of the touristy stuff,” Kurtz said. “But they spend most of their days rehearsing with the choirs.”

Kurtz also described the groups as “elite” and “prestigious” choirs, making the Idaho International Choral Festival a unique opportunity to see a world of talent in one place.

“How many people in Pocatello have ever heard a Kazakhstani song? You’ll hear it at their concert,” she said. “They sometimes also dress in their native costumes depending on the performance.”

A regional high school honor choir featuring students from different towns across Idaho also joined the festival. Kurtz described this week as the highlight of many of those high schoolers’ summers. The ISU Alumni Choir is also part of the festival.

For the team behind the massive week of events, the reward is getting to listen to beautiful music from around the world every night.

“I would love everybody in our area to come and just chat with them, come to the concert, stay after for a little bit and actually talk to them, ask them about their country and they can ask you about ours,” Kurtz said. “It’s a special opportunity that is rarely possible for us here in Pocatello.”

All proceeds made from ticket sales go back into helping the festival continue for years to come. The next one will be in 2029 at ISU.

For more on ticket sales and prices, visit idahointerchoralfest.org/tickets

Participating Choirs 2026

Boys’ Choir DAGILĖLIS (Lithuania)

Chorus of Change (Kazakhstan)

Huaxia Chinese Chorus of New Jersey (USA)

Spring Women’s Choir (California, USA)

Salt Lake Chinese Choir (Utah, USA)

ISU Alumni Chamber Choir (Idaho, USA)

High School Honor Choir (Idaho, USA)

Schedule of Events/Concerts

Wednesday, July 15

9:30-10:30 AM: Opening Welcome Ceremony & Ribbon Cutting (Free, media only, please) – Pebble Creek Ski Area.

7:00 PM: Community Concerts – Jensen Grand Concert Hall & Goranson Hall, ISU.

Thursday, July 16

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Outdoor Concert (Free, bring your own lunch) – ISU Quad.

7:00 PM: Community Concerts – Jensen Grand Concert Hall & Goranson Hall, ISU.

Friday, July 17

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Outdoor Concert (Free, bring your own lunch) – ISU Quad.

7:00 PM: Community Concerts – Jensen Grand Concert Hall & Goranson Hall, ISU.

Saturday, July 18

7:00 PM: Gala Concert – Jensen Grand Concert Hall, Stephens Performing Arts Center.

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Man rescued from border wall, arrested for illegal entry

KVIA on July 15, 2026

Gabrielle Lopez

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — El Paso firefighters rescued a man who wasn’t able to climb down the border wall, according to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection statement on Tuesday.

CBP said the man tried to illegally enter the U.S. by scaling the border wall near Loop 375 and Yarbrough.

Agents arrested the man for illegal entry after emergency medical services determined he had no injuries, according to CBP.

CBP sent a statement regarding the incident:

“Illegally entering the United States, as well as climbing tall barriers and fences designed to secure our Border and protect our communities is extremely dangerous. Individuals who disregard these warnings place themselves, first responders and nearby property owners at risk. If you illegally enter the United States, you will be prosecuted and removed.”

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Deschutes Public Library Board extends search for new director

KTVZ on July 15, 2026

Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes Public Library Director Todd Dunkelberg is set to retire on Aug. 28, prompting an extended search for his successor. The Deschutes Public Library Board decided last Wednesday evening to continue its search for a new director after interviewing two candidates last week and now plans to appoint an interim director.

The board interviewed two candidates on July 7 and 8 before making the decision to extend the search. Library Board President Ann Malkin stated the board is committed to finding the right leader for the district during what she described as an “exciting time.” “We value the experience and enthusiasm the two candidates brought to the table,” Malkin said. “We are in an exciting time for the library district and the board is committed to making sure we make the right decision for the community and library staff. We will take a brief pause to refocus our search, with a goal of finding the right director for this vibrant and growing community.”

Dunkelberg has served the library system for 26 years, including the last 16 years as director. Dunkelberg described his departure as bittersweet, but expressed excitement for his next adventure. “I love, love working in libraries for me. Library is home. But the nice thing about a public library is you always get to come visit it. So that part. I’m looking forward to the next adventure for myself,” Dunkelberg said. When considering the qualities of his replacement, Dunkelberg emphasized passion and community engagement. “Probably the best thing is really looking for somebody that has a passion for the library, that really is able to listen to the community, listen to our staff and and help lead us into into the future,” Dunkelberg said, adding that the outgoing leadership has “set the next person up really well.” The board contracted a firm to assist with the director search at a cost of $45,000 for one year. Dunkelberg confirmed that continuing the search will not incur additional costs for taxpayers, as the library still has time remaining on the existing contract. Despite the leadership transition, the library continues to attract new patrons. Luke, a student at OSU Cascades, recently became a new member of the Central Library. He praised its organization, stating, “There’s a lot of books. I like the way it’s organized. It’s very, very nice. Just in general.” Luke added that the library “just overall seems very good” and he plans to frequent it “a lot more after checking it out.” The board and the search firm will now return to their list of candidates and pursue new avenues to find suitable applicants.

The Deschutes Public Library Board will meet on Aug. 12 to discuss appointing an interim director. Dunkelberg is scheduled to retire on Aug. 28.

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70 businesses sign letter asking Columbia City Council to consider ‘urban camping ordinance’

KMIZ on July 14, 2026

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Downtown Columbia businesses are asking the city to consider an urban camping ordinance.

According to Nickie Davis, executive director of Columbia’s Downtown Community Improvement District, roughly 70 businesses have signed a letter asking the city to research and consider the ordinance.

Davis stated last week that the Downtown CID planned to send a proposal letter to the City Council by Friday. At least two local business owners were able to speak to ABC 17 News about reasons for their support last week.

Davis after Tuesday afternoon’s CID meeting said the request is expected to be discussed at the next City Council meeting on Monday.

The proposal has been met with criticism online.

ABC 17 News has asked for a copy of the letter.  

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Jorge Gonzalez runs for Yuma County Justice of the Peace in Precinct 1

KYMA on July 14, 2026

Lauren Duffel

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – A U.S. Marine Corps Veteran from Yuma says he has what it takes to be the next Yuma County Justice of the Peace for Precinct 1.

Jorge Gonzalez brings a background shaped by service, family, and faith. He is a father, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, a retired Border Patrol agent, and a Deacon.

Gonzalez says those experiences have prepared him to serve the community from the bench.

Gonzalez says he wants to give back to his country.

“Serving the community is something that is personal to me…to give back. I’m also an ordained minister; I’m a deacon, so I think service to the community is paramount to me. I think it’s a good opportunity for me to serve the community on the bench,” Gonzalez said.

The Yuma County Justice of the Peace oversees Justice Court cases, including issuing warrants, setting bail, and handling preliminary hearings.

“If I get elected, I think the priority for me will be to treat people with respect, integrity, and fairness. I think that will be the main thing I’m going to be focusing on: making sure everything keeps running smoothly, but with a focus on respect, kindness, and fairness to the people,” Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez also shares why he’s best candidate saying, “Because I could be a plus as a bilingual person. You want to talk to somebody who understands you, especially in a border town.”

Gonzalez will face Carly Sandoval in the Arizona primary Tuesday, July 21, 2026.

For information on where to vote, click here.

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