IID seeks to protect water rights as new Colorado River operating plan looms

Jessamyn Dodd

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) – The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is responding to a new federal proposal that will shape how the Colorado River is managed for the next decade.

The proposed operating plan would guide river operations through 2036 and outlines how Arizona, California, and Nevada would reduce water use during a drought in an effort to protect water levels at Lake Mead and Powell.

IID said the plan must continue to recognize California’s senior water rights under the Law of the River. The IID wants to ensure there is enough water for farmers, businesses, and residents in Imperial Valley.

To learn more about this, click here. Reporter Jessamyn Dodd will have the full story later this evening.

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Missouri cyclosporiasis cases nearly double, Boone County at 90 cases

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Cyclosporiasis cases in Missouri have nearly doubled in the past week, according to information from the state’s Communicable Disease report that was reported on Sunday.

Total cases of the diarrhea-inducing disease have hit 1,095 as of Sunday, which increased from 595 from last week’s total.

As of Monday afternoon, 90 cases of cyclosporiasis have been reported in Boone County, according to Columbia/Boone County Public Health and Human Services spokesman Austin Krohn. There were 79 cases in the county reported last week and 53 the week before.

The FDA announced on July 17 that it is investigating iceberg lettuce sourced from central Mexico that was recalled by Taylor Farms.

ABC News reported on Monday that the first deaths of the national outbreak have been reported in Michigan. There have been 11,234 cases reported in Michigan, ABC News reported from Michigan’s Health Department.

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Why are moose wandering into Idaho neighborhoods?

Par Kermani

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) — If you spot a moose wandering through your neighborhood this summer, Idaho Fish and Game says there may be a reason why.

During late spring and summer, the department frequently responds to reports of yearling moose wandering into residential and urban areas at lower elevations.

According to Idaho Fish and Game, mother moose will drive away their roughly 1-year-old calves as they prepare for new offspring. Those young moose are then left searching for new territory, food and water.

As they disperse from higher elevations, yearling moose can follow rivers and agricultural corridors that eventually lead them into populated areas. Sightings typically peak between May and July.

While a young moose wandering through town may attract attention, Fish and Game is reminding people to keep their distance.

Moose are large, powerful animals that can move quickly and should not be approached or treated like domesticated animals. Signs of agitation can include pinned-back ears or a lowered head, which could indicate the animal may charge.

Pet owners should also keep dogs leashed and away from moose. Dogs can provoke a defensive response from the animal, increasing the risk of a charge.

If a moose appears stuck, aggressive or is creating a safety concern in a populated area, contact Idaho Fish and Game.

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Big Bear Lake bald eagle Jackie remains in ‘critical condition’

Tommy Gallegos

OJAI, Calif. — UPDATE 8/7/2026 The Ojai Raptor Center reports that Big Bear Lake bald eagle Jackie remains in intensive care, where she is receiving oxygen therapy, supportive treatment, and continuous monitoring. Her condition remains critical after recent blood work showed her packed cell volume (PCV) has declined again, falling below 10%.

“We are sorry to share that today’s update is not positive,” the Ojai Raptor Center said in the post.

The center says that advanced diagnostics performed this week, including a contrast CT scan and bone marrow biopsy, have provided important new insights into her condition. The center says additional specialized testing is still pending.

The Ojai Raptor Center’s veterinary team continues to collaborate closely with specialists across the country as they evaluate the latest findings and determine the most appropriate next steps in her care.

The center is consulting with specialists at the University of Georgia, UC Davis, and avian specialists in Northern California as they determine the next steps in Jackie’s care.

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UPDATE 8/5/2026

The Ojai Raptor Center has shared a medical update regarding Jackie, the Big Bear bald eagle, reporting that she underwent further advanced diagnostics, including a contrast CT scan and bone marrow biopsy.

The center says Jackie recovered well from anesthesia and is back in her recovery enclosure receiving supplemental oxygen.

The veterinary team says together with their scientific advisory council and consulting specialists, are now reviewing today’s findings alongside Jackie’s previous test results.

The center also says additional lab work is still pending. The group says it will share a more comprehensive updates once they have the opportunity to review their findings.

Original Report

OJAI, Calif. — The Ojai Raptor Center has shared a concerning medical update regarding Jackie, the Big Bear bald eagle, reporting that the bird’s condition has become more serious following the latest round of diagnostic testing.

According to the rehabilitation center, bloodwork performed Monday revealed that the eagle’s packed cell volume (PCV) has declined to 13%, indicating that her anemia has worsened since the previous public update. A low PCV means the bird has fewer circulating red blood cells than normal, reducing the body’s ability to deliver oxygen to vital organs and tissues.

In response to the results, the Ojai Raptor Center’s veterinary team has initiated additional advanced diagnostic testing while requesting expedited laboratory analysis to help determine the underlying cause of the anemia. Those findings will be used to guide the next phase of the eagle’s treatment.

Jackie has been receiving treatment after being found on the ground on Big Bear Lake following a confrontation with two other bald eagles.

The center revealed that the encounter with eagles likely left her grounded, but experts do not believe it is what caused her illness.

At this time, veterinarians say they do not yet have definitive answers regarding the cause of the worsening condition or the prognosis. The center emphasized that it will provide another update once meaningful new medical information becomes available.

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Palm Springs Unified School District Superintendent lays out priorities for school year

Peter Daut

The Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD) is preparing to welcome students back to campus as the new academic year begins Wednesday, with district leaders emphasizing a renewed focus on connection, belonging, and student achievement.

Superintendent Dr. Marcus Funchess says the district’s top priority this school year is ensuring every student feels supported, affirmed, and engaged in their education. District leaders are working to strengthen relationships with students, families, and staff while creating learning environments where everyone feels they belong.

A key initiative this year centers on improving student attendance. PSUSD plans to work more closely with families by reaching out when attendance concerns arise, helping identify barriers that may be preventing students from getting to school, and connecting families with available resources and support.

During an in-depth interview with KESQ’s Peter Daut, Dr. Funchess shared the challenge that remains at the forefront of his mind.

“There’s one challenge that’s always on my mind: How can we help our scholars excel academically? And how can we help them be excited about learning in our classrooms?” Funchess said.

In addition to its attendance efforts, the district has launched a new multi-year vision aimed at shaping the future of PSUSD. The long-term plan is designed to build on academic success while fostering stronger connections throughout the district community.

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Carpinteria Arts Camp Sparks Youth Creativity

Patricia Martellotti

CARPINTERIA, Calif. (KEYT) – Summer is being spent exploring, creating, and imagining new possibilities at the Carpinteria Arts Center.

The center’s arts camp is giving local kids a chance to dive into hands-on experiences in art, music, theater, and STEM – all in an environment designed to encourage curiosity and creativity.

From painting and performance to building and experimenting, campers are getting the chance to try new activities and discover talents they may not have known they had.

The program is built around bold, engaging projects that keep children active and inspired while giving them space to express themselves.

This summer, the demand for the camp was so strong that organizers expanded the offerings by an extra week, bringing the total to nine weeks. Leaders say that response shows just how valuable the program has become for families in the community.

One of the biggest reasons the camp has been able to reach so many kids is the support of generous donors.

The Carpinteria Arts Center has also been able to provide financial aid to every family that requested it, helping make sure cost is not a barrier to participation.

For many children, the camp is more than just a summer activity, it’s a place to build confidence, make friends, and discover new creative interests.

And for the Carpinteria Arts Center, it’s another way to help shape the next generation of young artists through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

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Old Spanish Days 2026 to Include Super-Sized Mercado in Downtown Santa Barbara

John Palminteri

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (KEYT) – The traditional downtown mercado in De la Guerra Plaza will grow for this week’s Fiesta.

The change for the 2026 event will expand the mercado out to State Street.

Old Spanish Days says beyond De la Guerra Plaza and De la Guerra Street, the mercado footprint will go up and down State Street for two blocks, bordered by Ortega St. and Canon Perdido Street.

It runs from Wednesday, August 5 through Saturday August 8, 2026. There is no charge for the plaza entertainment.

The mercado area will have a main stage in the plaza on the back side surrounded by food, a beer garden, and vendors coming out towards De la Guerra Street and City Hall.

Some of the vendors began setting up on Sunday. They continue construction all day on Monday.

Sean Malis is on the Old Spanish Days staff in charge of the downtown mercado. He said, “we have dancing during the day,  we have bands performing until 10 o’clock at night. We do that  Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. ” 

All permits for health and construction will be verified before the operators can serve guests.

“We have sold all the food booths that we can and even  have sold a couple of extras,” said Malis.

Thousands will be expected to visit the area during Old Spanish Days, with many local residents planning to go on the first day before the flow of tourists pour into the city.

The new beer garden area in the plaza will be run by the Sportsman Lounge. Owner Phillip Writght said, “just being in the business for 30 years, we can control the number of people we want. A  nice flow of crowd.  “

This location will bring the entertainment, food and beverages into one place with a high top table.

Wright said, “enjoy their food, bring it right here they don’t have to go back and forth what I do want to point out this year,  we are taking no cover charge at the beer garden.”

This will be the only mercado operated by Old Spanish Days.

“This is really not just the heart of the Fiesta, it is our heritage, it is our community heritage going back to the 1930’s,” said Malis.

There will not be a mercado at MacKenzie Park or at the waterfront as the city has seen in the past.  There will be no Old Spanish Days carnival.

There will be a carnival or mini fair on the field at The Club on Canon Perdido Street with rides, food and dancing.

The Club will also have a free pancake breakfast Saturday morning from 7 – 9 a.m.

Another location for Fiesta performances this year will be at the entrance to the Paseo Nuevo Mall.

Chairs and an elevated stage have been set up there near the Balboa Building.

This stage comes alive Tuesday one day before the official start of Fiesta.

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Cuts for Kids Gives Students a Fresh Start in Santa Barbara

Patricia Martellotti

CARPINTERIA, Calif. (KEYT) – Local barbers are stepping up in a big way to help Santa Barbara families start the school year off right.

Through a back-to-school haircut program for members of the United Boys & Girls Clubs, kids are getting a fresh look, and a confidence boost, before heading back into the classroom.

For many families, the start of the school year can be exciting, but it can also bring extra expenses.

Haircuts, school supplies, clothes and other essentials can add up quickly.

That’s why this community effort is making such a difference, offering a simple but meaningful way to ease some of that pressure while helping students feel prepared for day one.

The free haircut event is about more than just appearance.

Organizers believe the response has been a reminder of how strong Santa Barbara’s sense of community really is.

By donating their time and talents, local barbers are not only helping families save money, but also showing kids that their community is rooting for them.

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Heavy Hearts In Guadalupe as Curtains Close on Royal Theatre’s Restoration Project

Jarrod Zinn

GUADALUPE, Calif. (KEYT) – City officials in Guadalupe ordered an abrupt halt to the restoration project at the Royal Theatre.

Some of the work needs to wrap up at the historic site before the operation is fully shut down.

People in Guadalupe had high hopes just last December when groundbreaking started at the site of the historic Royal Theatre.

In February, the sounds of tractors and construction machinery echoed through downtown Guadalupe.

It all went quiet last Tuesday when the city council brought this project to a full stop.

“Having to cancel a project of this scope that had the potential to bring more hope to this community is disheartening,” says Guadalupes’ city administrator David Trujillo.

As the work progressed, crews were encountering more and more issues that required additional expense to fix.

“Once construction started, then it’s like they were able to actually look at the meat of the building,” says Trujillo. “Way back when there was a fire over here in this area with the electrical panel, a lot of water damage on this front wall, specifically a lot of mold and stuff that they were starting to find within when they started ripping out drywall . The foundation itself wasn’t very structurally sound.”

As those stumbling blocks built up, so did projected financial red flags.

“It’s the city’s cash flow that was threatened with the construction cost,” says Trujillo.

City administrator David Trujillo says it makes more sense for the city to halt the project now and retain some funding, rather than find itself in debt in the near future trying to keep it going.

“Erring in caution, it kind of made more sense to stop everything,” says Trujillo.

City leaders say there will still be crews out here for a time, as the site must be made safe and preserved as is before a full shut-down can occur.

“Right now it’s all just locked up,” says Trujillo. “We’re having a meeting tomorrow. We’re going to start going over close out. Whether it’s reinstalling the glass doors that were here before, you know, just various things like that. We want to talk to them about finishing the roof so we can at least have that secured. The back wall isn’t there.”

Trujillo says closing down the project means there’s no estimate on how long it could be before work starts up again.

In the meantime, Guadalupe will be meeting other fiscal obligations.

Trujillo says the future of the site here is uncertain, but that the property was originally moved to city ownership with stipulations it be developed as a performing arts venue of some kind.

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Jefferson County identifies 64-year-old man missing since Big Rock Fire evacuation

Par Kermani

UPDATE (Aug. 4):

RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI) — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man reported missing during evacuations for the Big Rock Fire near Heise.

Robert Michael Quinn, known as “Robbie,” was last seen Friday, July 31, during the wildfire evacuation. The sheriff’s office said Tuesday that its search for Quinn remains active and there is concern for his welfare.

Quinn is 64 years old, approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs about 170 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes, but officials said his head was shaved when he was last seen.

Quinn was wearing tan sweatpants and no shirt at the time of his disappearance. He was last seen in the vicinity of the Big Rock Fire evacuation area, and his current whereabouts are unknown.

The new information comes after the sheriff’s office previously told Local News 8 that the individual “took off” during Big Rock Fire evacuations Friday night. Law enforcement has been searching for him since.

Anyone who has seen Quinn since July 31 or has information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 208-745-9210.

ORIGINAL STORY:

RIGBY, Idaho (KIFI) — The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a missing person who disappeared during evacuations for the Big Rock Fire Friday night.

Sheriff’s officials told Local News 8 the individual “took off” during the evacuations and has not been located.

Law enforcement is currently searching for the individual and remains in contact with the person’s guardians.

The sheriff’s office has not yet released the person’s name, age, description or the circumstances surrounding their disappearance.

Local News 8 is working to learn more and will update this story as additional information becomes available.

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