Author: KYMA

Madeline Murray

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The 20th annual Southwest Agricultural Summit is back in the desert southwest.

One of the growers who attended the event shared why it’s important to come to the summit.

“The technology that’s on display here is unbelievable, we’ve got AI represented, we’ve got lasers, we’ve got all kinds of things and it’s all going towards making the things we do more efficient, and easier to deal with the problems that we have,” says Steve Alameda, Yuma Fresh Board Member and local farmer.

Jai Roa, founder Niqo Robotics, says that because of the heat in Yuma, its a great place to test out the machinery.

“The saying for us is if you can get through yuma, you can get through anywhere in the world, so that’s why we enjoy being here…it’s a good test for our product, and the people have been great so we’re excited to see everything grow here,” explains Roa.

The Southwest Ag Summit is the desert southwest’s premier agriculture industry show that provides content that growers can directly apply to their job.

Amy Karvoski, Yuma Fresh Vegatable Association Manager, explains, “We kind of take everything over for a couple days, and we get the biggest, best latest and greatest Ag technology, Ag implements here to show attendees.”

Day two of the summit focused on field demonstrations. There were 14 different machines and drones shown to attendees to display what they do and how they can be used in the field.

Karvoski adds, “We work really hard at again finding the latest information and the most up to date farming equipment to bring here so that they know it’s available.”

Growers also had the opportunity to sit in different classes focusing on the Colorado river, vegetables, and laws and regulations.

“It helps the get the credits that keep their license legal so that they can continue with their profession, but the other thing it does as well is give them the newest information on their particular topics and particular subjects so they know what is going on now,” says Karvoski.

The Yuma Fresh Vegatable Association would like to thank their sponsors who help them put on a huge event like this every year.

The Southwest Ag Summit will last through Thursday, February 19.

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Manoah Tuiasosopo

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – February is officially Heart Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide.

To discuss the importance of heart health, we spoke with Dr. Evren Kaynak, Cardiovascular Medical Director at Onvida Health.

Why Heart Health Month matters

While many people associate February with Valentine’s Day and heart symbols, Dr. Kaynak says the month serves a much more serious purpose.

“Cardiovascular disease is still the number one cause of death in the United States and around the world,” Kaynak said. “Heart Health Month is about bringing attention to prevention and early detection.”

The “Silent Killer”: High Blood Pressure

One of the biggest concerns in cardiovascular health is hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.

Dr. Kaynak calls it a “silent killer” because it often has no noticeable symptoms until serious complications occur.

“High blood pressure may not give you any warning signs,” he explained. “For some patients, the first sign could be a stroke, heart attack, or even kidney failure.”

Hypertension remains one of the leading contributors to death, particularly among older adults. The good news, Dr. Kaynak says, is that treatment is highly effective, if the condition is caught early.

Simple Steps to Protect Your Heart

While lifestyle advice can sometimes sound repetitive, Dr. Kaynak emphasizes that small, consistent changes can significantly improve both quality and length of life.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

As people age, weight gain can become more common, especially with increased consumption of processed foods. Losing excess weight can significantly lower blood pressure.

2. Reduce Processed Foods

Dr. Kaynak advises limiting processed salt, sugar, and refined flour.

“These foods can make arteries harder and increase blood pressure,” he said.

3. Exercise Regularly

Aim for 30 to 45 minutes of brisk walking daily — enough to break a light sweat.

“It doesn’t have to be extreme,” Dr. Kaynak noted. “But consistent physical activity can lower blood pressure and improve heart health.”

Monitor Your Health

Dr. Kaynak encourages people to keep track of their blood pressure and stay aware of any unusual symptoms.

“Prevention and early action are key,” he said. “We are here to help.”

For more details on an upcoming event Heart Health awareness event, click here.

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Morgan Feller

The 13th annual fuel of dreams was a success for Special Olympics Arizona

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The Yuma Police Department hosted its 13th Annual Fuel of Dreams event Thursday, raising money to benefit Special Olympics Arizona.

Officers volunteered their time to pump gas and clean windshields for customers while encouraging donations to support local athletes.

The effort raised $1,190, according to organizers.

In other Special Olympics news, local high school teams are set to compete in a basketball and cheer tournament this weekend. Top performers will advance to state competition.

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Jessamyn Dodd

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) – 51-year-old Abraham Feinbloom was in an El Centro criminal courtroom Wednesday wearing a red jailhouse uniform and shackles.

He pleaded not guilty in the disappearance and murder of 17-year-old T’neya Tovar.

The judge stated that Tovar and Feinbloom began communicating in November of last year, up until she was reported missing.

Tovar was allegedly dropped off at Feinbloom‘s home.

During the second search warrant executed at his home, Feinbloom tried to run away.

Feinbloom was detained by law enforcement. He had his passport and Thai currency on him.

It is further alleged that Feinbloom used a firearm during the crime, and a leg that matched Tovar’s DNA had bullet fragments in it.

Overseeing the case is Judge William Lehmar, who ordered Feinbloom to remain in custody with no bail until his next appearance which is Monday, February 23.

The court was under the impression that Feinbloom had retained private counsel, however, he stated that his lawyer was not present.

The case was handed to the public defenders office for the time being.

The Imperial County District Attorney’s office argued that Feinbloom is a flight risk.

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Jessamyn Dodd

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) – Locals were holding onto their hats in Imperial County today. Strong winds swept dust and debris into the air.

It also blew tree branches and cause reduced visibility and poor air quality. Officials warned of potential hazards which could become dangerous.

Brawley Fire Chief Juan Rodelo said residents should beware of debris.

“We’ve been experiencing some high winds and some rain and stuff like that. I guess a word of caution would be to be mindful of wind events like the ones that we are experiencing right now. We have a lot of debris coming down, you know from trees, palm trees and stuff like that. There might be some trash that might be loose. So just watch road conditions and just pay attention to whatever message might be coming out if weather conditions worsen,” said Chief Rodelo.

The Imperial County Air Pollution Board also warned of  severe air pollution cased by the wind… and advises residents to limit their time outdoors.

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Jessamyn Dodd

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) – Workers and vendors are preparing for the annual California Mid-Winter Fair, setting up rides, booths, and preparing the parking lot for large crowds, and adding the finishing touches.

Organizers say months of planning go into making this one of the most anticipated events of the year.

“Currently we have the carnival that’s in the process of getting their rides and everything set up. We have food vendors that are coming in, starting to get their concessions stands ready to go. We have grounds preparation that’s taking place, getting ready to take on all these people,” Imperial Valley Fairgrounds CEO Alan Phillips told KYMA.

Along with classic fair favorities like funnel cakes and corndogs, visitors can expect live performances, entertainment, and games. Main staples of the fair are the livestock show and the motorsports events.

Phillips explained, “We have six days of racing that will be taking place on the first weekend. We have go karts. And then on the second weekend we have lightning sprints and dwarf cars.”

The fair opens next Friday night, and this year, its offering family value nights with discounts. For more information, click here.

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Adrik Vargas

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – Strong winds and cooler temperatures made for a noticeably different day across Yuma, with blowing dust lingering into the evening hours.

While some residents stayed indoors, others embraced the change in weather. Along the Colorado River, Marcia Glass said she found the gusty conditions interesting.

“It’s crazy. I’ve been watching the river, because it’s going every which way with the waves and I just think it’s interesting. Not a lot of people have been around and I’ve been here for a while,” Glass said.

As residents dealt with the gusty conditions, city officials also shared an important reminder about water use.

The City of Yuma Utilities Department says windy weather can cause sprinkler water to blow onto sidewalks and streets instead of soaking into lawns.

Cinthia Cota Miramontes, the department’s Water Conservation Program Coordinator, explained that wind also increases evaporation, meaning even more water is lost before plants can absorb it.

Because of that, officials recommend skipping irrigation on especially windy days and waiting for calmer conditions.

City officials say holding off on watering during windy weather can help conserve water and ensure it’s not wasted.

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Adrik Vargas

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – The 20th Annual Southwest Ag Summit wrapped up Thursday in Yuma, closing out three days of discussions, technology showcases and industry networking.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation, Richard Fordyce, served as the keynote speaker on the final day of the summit.

During his remarks, Fordyce explained that he made the trip to Yuma to better understand the region’s role in feeding the country and to hear more about the challenges local growers are facing.

Organizers say his three-day visit gave him a firsthand look at the area’s agricultural landscape and the opportunity to bring Yuma’s concerns back to the Department of Agriculture in Washington.

They say the overall message is that Yuma’s desert climate and year-round vegetable production make it a critical part of the nation’s food supply, and a place where new farming innovations can be tested and refined.

Throughout the summit, vendors from around the world showcased emerging technology designed to help growers improve efficiency and productivity.

That included drone systems designed to protect crops from birds, as well as specialized track wheelchairs aimed at helping farmers with disabilities continue working in the field.

Organizers say events like the Ag Summit help keep Yuma at the forefront of agricultural innovation, and with national attention on the region, they remain confident in the future of local agriculture.

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Abraham Retana

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) – A local medical provider is promoting healthy habits among children.

As part of Health Heart Month, Exceptional Community Hospital of Yuma held a drawing contest with some of Dorothy Hall Elementary School students.

The goal is to inspire kids to take care of their hearts starting at young age.

“Our hearts don’t sleep so it’s very important to take care of them 24 hours a day and taking care of them includes the four things, activity water, healthy eating and sleep,” said Lisa Brazeel, Exceptional Community Hospital marketing and community liaison.

Exceptional Community Hospital will also host a Health Heart Fair on Saturday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its location on Araby Road next to Interstate 8.

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