Michael Bloomberg gives $1.25 million to Missouri abortion rights PAC

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

After Tuesday’s primary election, heads turn toward November.

An amendment challenging the state’s abortion rules, known as Amendment 3, will be on the Nov. 3 ballot. If passed, Amendment 3 would reinstate an abortion ban statewide.

Multiple contributions have been made this week that triggered the 48-hour reporting window for the Missouri Ethics Commission, which occurs when contributions exceed $5,000.

Former New York Mayor and media mogul Michael Bloomberg contributed $1.25 million on Monday to “Stop The Ban,” a committee that opposes Amendment 3. Before Bloomberg’s donation, the group raised nearly $5 million this election cycle and had $3.65 million on hand, as of the Missouri Ethics Commission report it filed on July 15.

Bloomberg’s donation was posted by the MEC on Wednesday.

Additionally, the Health Forward Foundation out of Kansas City contributed $100,000 on Monday and Ross Boucher, of San Francisco, California, gave $50,000. Both donations were posted on Tuesday.

Political Action Committee “Her Health, Her Future” – which supports Amendment 3’s passage and has Missouri first lady Claudia Kehoe as its treasurer – had raised nearly $1 million, according to its July 15 MEC report. The group had nearly $800,000 on-hand, according to the report.

The conservative PAC had two donations that met the 48-hour reporting threshold after the July 15 report. Conservative Solutions for Missouri PAC, of Clayton, contributed $15,000 on July 23, while Columbian Charities of Missouri Inc., of O’Fallon, gave $25,000 on July 28.

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New Salmon Two Rivers K-8 school opening after years of community effort

David Pace

SALMON, Idaho (KIFI) — The Salmon community celebrated a ribbon cutting for a new Salmon Two Rivers K-8 public school Wednesday, marking the completion of a $28 million project years in the making.

Gov. Brad Little attended the ceremony along with local lawmakers and school officials.

After 20 years and 13 prior attempts to pass a school bond, voters approved a $20 million bond to fund the school in May 2024.

Salmon is the only school district in the state to support a school bond since 2024.

“They tried to pass the bond in 13 times. But what you heard today were all the people that were part of it. They went out and solicited support from all the businesses,” Gov. Little said. “R&M Steel, it’s an enormous gift that they’ve given to this school in the steel for the structure, the superstructure.”

The gap to reach the total cost was filled after a massive community fundraising effort – combined with additional state funds from House Bill 338 and House Bill 521 – totaling $8 million to bring the project to completion.

The district provides education for 600 students, with up to 425 spots available at the new school, said Salmon School District 91 Superintendent Jill Patton.

“Thank you, thank you for supporting us. Thank you for the time and effort everybody put in to make this happen,” Patton said. “And thank you for the ongoing commitment, because every single time [the patrons] pay their taxes, they are showing support for our schools. We appreciate that.”

The new building features 30 classrooms and a beautiful gymnasium and playground area.

The new school comes after years of discussion over aging school facilities in Salmon and across Idaho.

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Pair accused of stealing money from Clark Lane car wash

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Two people were charged on Tuesday after they were accused of stealing $1,600 from a pair of cash collector machines at a northeast Columbia car wash on Monday.

Todd Harget, 37, of Edgar Springs, and Sierra Claxton, 30, of Joplin, were each charged with two counts of organized retail theft and two counts of first-degree property damage. They are both being held at the Boone County Jail, with Harget having a $40,000 bond and Claxton having a $25,000 bond. Initial court appearances were held on Wednesday.

The probable cause statements say Claxton drove a Jeep to Lighthouse Car wash on Clark Lane with Harget in the vehicle. The Jeep was allegedly used in a previous burglary at the same location on July 22, court documents say.

Harget was allegedly seen on video using a crowbar on two cash collectors, causing about $6,000 worth of damage and taking $1,600 in cash.

Another probable cause statement for the July 22 incident states Harget caused roughly $7,000 in damage to cash collecting machines and netted $1,100 in cash.

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Valley doctors speak out about rising concerns with ‘brain fog’

Peter Daut

RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. (KESQ)– Valley doctors say they’re seeing an increase in patients with “brain fog.”

Brain fog is a term used to describe a range of cognitive symptoms, including impaired concentration, memory lapses and mental fatigue. Doctors say it’s common after covid but can also be caused by stress or underlying conditions.

Officials also say it’s important for people with severe brain fog to seek medical attention.

“These are highly intelligent individuals. Some are working, some are retired, but it really affects their ability to have their daily lives functioning at a higher capacity,” explained Dr. Elaine Fogel Schneider, a local psychologist

Doctors say poor sleep, dehydration and lack of exercise can also contribute to brain fog. For more information watch Peter Daut’s full interview and stay with News Channel 3.

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Arizona woman injured in rollover accident near INL

Curtis Jackson

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) – An Arizona woman was injured when her car rolled on US 20 near the Idaho National Laboratory site on Tuesday morning.

Idaho State Police said the 67-year-old woman was driving west in a 2025 Toyota Camry. Troopers said she lost control of the Camry, went into the eastbound lane, off the right shoulder, and rolled.

The crash occurred at 9:22 a.m. at milepost 278 on US 20 in Bingham County.

The woman was wearing a seatbelt and was taken by ambulance to a local hospital.

The accident remains under investigation.

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Kofa High School opens Thursday

Dillon Fuhrman

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The Yuma Union High School District (YUHSD) said Kofa High School will open as regularly scheduled Thursday.

The update comes after both Kofa and Cibola High Schools closed Tuesday due to air conditioning issues.

While Cibola reopened Wednesday, Kofa remained closed to allow an “additional 24 hours for classrooms to reach safe and comfortable temperatures for staff and students,” YUHSD said.

During that time, “all students will attend class virtually from home using the Canvas Learning Management System,” YUHSD said.

YUHSD said the bell for first period will ring at 7:34 a.m. Thursday, and is advising parents that “Avenue A will be closed between Parkview Loop and the north entrance to Smucker Park (near Solana Drive) due to the removal and installation of underground utilities by DPE Construction.”

Instead, YUHSD is encouraging parents to “access Avenue A from 32nd Street or Palmcroft Drive.”

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City of Columbia holds news conference on Prop 1 vote

Matthew Sanders

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The City of Columbia is holding a news conference on the results of the vote on Proposition 1 — a 1-cent sales tax for public safety that passed with 85 votes on Tuesday.

The final total won’t be certified until next week.

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Imperial Valley 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb happening next month

Jessamyn Dodd

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) – The Imperial Valley 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb Committee will host the annual memorial event at the IV Fairgrounds to honor heroes lost in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City.

The Committee is a non-profit that was formed in 2019 to preserve the memory of the firefighters and law enforement officers alive, while also providing support to local first responders.

During the event, participants will climb the equivalent of the 110 stories of the World Trade Center.

“As we know, this year holds a special significance in that we commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11th, and here in the Imperial Valley we will host our 13th annual Imperial valley 9/11 memorial and stair climb, here at the fairgrounds,” committee member Carlos Pitones shared.

Cedric Cesena, Deputy Fire Chief of Imperial County Fire Department explained the significance of the stair climb.

“The significance of climbing, it doesn’t come anywhere near what those 343 firefighters and more that actually worked on Ground Zero and actually were working to climb the towers to rescue people and put out the fires,” he said.

Cesena said that the first responders in the Imperial Valley regularly run emergency drills, like an attak where there are mass casualties.

“On a regular basis, we participate either in large scale exercises, in particular those that are full scale. And that means basically that we actually put boots on the ground and we operate as if a real emergency was happening,” he said.

Everyone still remembers where they were as the worst terrorist attacks on US soil unfolded.

“I remember exactly where I was,” recalled Pitones. “During that time I was serving as a Marine Corps drill instructor in San Diego, and, for those who know the Marine Corps recruit depot, the boot camp is right next to the airport in San Diego, and so it’s very significant in that no planes were flying in or out of the airports,” he said.

“It was definitely a day we will always remember,” he reflected.

Cesena added,”I’s always a good opportunity for us to remember what has happened in order to look forward at where we’re headed.”

Proceeds from the stair climb will go towards a permanent memorial, which will be installed at the Fairgrounds.

The funds raised will also go to scholarship opportunities for young people who have an interest in a first responder career, and to help first responder families who may need extra assistance.

The event is set for September 12, with check in starting at 6 p.m.

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Better Business Bureau: Storm damage and need repairs? Don’t get scammed

Jalen Fong

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – Storms and fake contractor scams happen around the same time most every year.

They may go door to door saying they are working on a house nearby and can offer a great price on your repairs if you act now.

BBB Scam Tracker shows complaints from a California man who hired one of these people.

He says they demanded $10,000 upfront, but once paid, he never returned and left the house with half of a roof.

An Arizona man paid someone $3,100 upfront supposedly to get permits, but no work was done and the contractor left.

If you’re giving thousands in cash upfront, to someone you haven’t even checked out, you’re asking for trouble.

In Arizona and California,  if a project is more than $1000, a license is required. 

Check with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, or the California Contractors State License Board.

Read reviews and look for trusted accredited businesses at bbb.org.

Pay as little upfront as possible. In California contractors can’t ask for more than $1000 or 10% of the total whichever is less.

Before trusting any business, check out reviews, complaints and for trusted Accredited Businesses at BBB.org and visit BBB’s Scam Tracker.

Check out BBB scam warnings at joeknowsbetter.com.

BBB offers more protections if your home is damaged in a storm:

The moments after a storm or natural disaster can feel overwhelming. Cleanup and recovery should begin only after everyone is accounted for and safe from immediate danger, including pets.

Never feel pressured to rush into repairs or hire an unknown contractor. BBB has tips to help you recover safely and effectively after the storm.

Cleanup and recovery begin after everyone is accounted for and safe from immediate threat (including pets).

Storm victims should never feel pressured to make a hasty decision or choose an unknown contractor. Make temporary repairs if necessary so you can take the time to choose a trustworthy contractor.

BBB has tips to help you recover safely and effectively after the storm.

What should I do immediately after a storm damages my home?

After a storm, make sure everyone is safe, then assess and document the damage before contacting your insurance company.

Steps to take right away:

Check for injuries and hazards around your property.

Contact your insurance company immediately to start a claim.

Take photos and videos of all damage (home, vehicles, and property).

Do not make permanent repairs until your insurance company gives approval.

How do I make temporary repairs after a disaster?

Only make small repairs that prevent further damage until professional help arrives.

Tips for safe cleanup and temporary repairs:

Wear protective clothing (long pants, sleeves, and sturdy shoes).

Learn more about how to clean up after a tornado from the Red Cross, including the supplies you’ll need and how to handle fire hazards such as gas, electricity, and chemicals.

Cover broken windows or damaged roofs with tarps or boards.

Save all receipts for reimbursement from insurance.

Avoid downed power lines, standing water, or gas leaks.

Watch for price gouging: If you notice unusually high prices for supplies or services, report it to your local BBB and your state Attorney General’s office.

How can I avoid scams and storm chasers?

After major storms, dishonest contractors may pressure victims into quick decisions. These storm chasers often move from town to town after disasters.

How to protect yourself:

Be cautious of unsolicited offers for repair work.

Research contractors carefully at BBB.org.

Ask for local references and verify licenses and insurance.

Get multiple estimates before signing any agreement.

How do I hire a trustworthy contractor for storm repairs?

Get referrals from friends, relatives, and neighbors.

Check BBB ratings, reviews, and complaint history.

Ask if the contractor can add preventive features (like tornado-resistant upgrades).

Confirm who will handle follow-up service if issues arise later.

What should I look for in a storm damage repair contract?

A legitimate contract should be clear, detailed, and protect you as the homeowner.

What to include in your contract?

A full description of the work and materials

A breakdown of costs for labor and supplies

A payment schedule (never pay in full upfront)

Start and end dates

Written warranties for materials and labor

Terms for cancellation

A statement that the contractor is responsible for obtaining all permits

Don’t sign:

Blank contracts or vague authorization forms.

Agreements with verbal promises only; everything must be in writing.

How should I handle payments after storm repairs?

Payments should follow progress on the job, not come in advance.

Payment guidelines:

Never pay the full amount upfront.

Avoid paying in cash.

Release payments only as specific work is completed.

Do not make a final payment or sign a completion agreement until all work is finished to your satisfaction.

For more information

Visit BBB thunderstorm and tornado resources.

Check out BBB’s tips for hiring a restoration contractor, hiring a tree service, and debris removal

Read the latest news for preparing for a natural disaster.

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Bend Fire & Rescue offers free life-saving classes

Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend Fire & Rescue is offering two free monthly trainings designed to help Central Oregon residents respond during life-threatening emergencies.

The Hands-Only CPR class teaches participants what to expect when calling 911, how to perform CPR correctly and effectively, and what happens when first responders arrive.

The class is open to individuals, schools and workplaces. It is held on the first Wednesday of every month from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bend Fire Training Center, 63377 NE Jamison St., behind the North Fire Station.

The training is free but is not a certification class. Space is limited to 20 participants, and registration is encouraged.

Bend Fire & Rescue also offers a free Stop the Bleed class. The one-hour training teaches participants why uncontrolled bleeding is dangerous, how to recognize severe bleeding and how to control it quickly and effectively.

Stop the Bleed is held on the first Wednesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bend Fire Training Center. Space is limited to 20 people.

Private classes are also available for groups, workplaces and schools. To register or ask questions, call 541-322-6300 or email bfrcommunitytraining@bendoregon.gov.

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