Kierra Sam

Colorado Springs

Digital Journalist at KBMT-TV (Beaumont, TX)

Anchor and Reporter at KPAX-TV (Missoula, MT)

News Anchor/Reporter 🗞 •Texas raised 🤠• @UHouston alumna ❤️🐾 • Story ideas? Email me at [email protected]

Articles

Easter on a Budget | Colorado Springs mom makes Easter thrifting easy

1 week ago | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — Most people wear their Sunday best on Easter weekend. If you're a last-minute shopper and on a budget, you still have plenty of time to find an affordable and eco-friendly outfit.
How to avoid tax scams, mistakes as a last-minute filer

1 week ago | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — Tuesday is the deadline to file your taxes, and the IRS is warning last-minute filers to be aware of tax scams. The IRS says scams surrounding tax season happen every year. A growing concern from the agency this year is incorrect information on social media, misleading taxpayers to take bad tax advice. Two examples are the self-employment tax credit, which the IRS says doesn’t exist and fraudsters encouraging taxpayers to overstate their withholdings.
Automotive expert explains why it's best to buy a car now

2 weeks ago | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — Recently imposed tariffs are top of the mind for a lot of us here in the U.S. For people looking to buy a car, prices are expected to increase soon. There is a narrow window to snap up a new ride without tariffs if you're in the market to buy. An automotive expert tells News5 that if you need a new car, now is the time to shift gears and buy.
Federal funding for stolen SNAP benefits reimbursements unavailable

2 months ago | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — Dozens of viewers have reached out to News5 about their stolen SNAP benefits. Previously, those who had their benefits stolen could expect reimbursement in about 30 days, according to the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). However, as of December 20, 2024, federal funding that allowed families to be reimbursed for stolen benefits has been discontinued.
'The fun of the holidays is over'|Protect yourself against debt relief fraudsters

2 months ago | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — As holiday bills roll in, credit card debt is top of mind for many Americans. Unfortunately, so are the people looking to take advantage of your personal debt problems. U.S. credit card debt reached a record high of $1.166 trillion in 2024, according to the Federal Reserve. J.
CUTTING COSTS: Conservation specialist shares how to save on heating bills this winter

Jan 24, 2025 | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — Cold temperatures are expected to stick around in Colorado Springs. As the temperatures drop, usually utility bills go up. A conservation specialist at the Colorado Springs Utilities Environment and Conservation Center says despite the cold, there are ways to keep your home warm and save on your utility bill. "In winter we recommend setting the thermostat around 68 degrees, said CSU Senior Conservation Specialist Doug Bursnall.
Colorado Springs' first African American church honors MLK Jr. Day

Jan 20, 2025 | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — As the first Christian church for people of color in Colorado Springs, Payne Chapel African Methodist Episcopal (AME) is more than a place of worship. It’s a powerful reminder of resilience, faith, and unshakable strength. Payne Chapel AME was established 153 years ago, according to the church’s website. “It is the oldest African American church in Colorado Springs,” said Church Historian Thomas Scott.
Colorado Springs mom struggles to feed family after SNAP benefits are stolen

Jan 14, 2025 | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRING — It’s a new year, but people in Colorado are seeing the same old problems involving stolen SNAP benefits. A representative with the Colorado Department of Human Services Office says about 9,044 Colorado residents reported stolen SNAP benefits in 2024. Nicole Mobley, of Colorado Springs, was devastated after her SNAP benefits were stolen in January 2025. The unfortunate situation left her struggling to put food on the table for her and six children in the household.
Fake Online Jobs: Pueblo man speaks out after almost falling for fake remote job opportunity

Jan 9, 2025 | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

PUEBLO — Online scams are evolving, and fraudsters find new ways to prey on people hoping to find employment opportunities. A Pueblo man was surprised to find himself tangled up in a fake job scheme while searching for an opportunity to make extra spending money just before Christmas. “Because it's the holidays, who's not looking for a little extra cash, a little bonus money? Ya know,” Joseph Haas of Pueblo said.
BBB highlights rising phishing attempts in Colorado

Dec 5, 2024 | koaa.com | Kierra Sam

COLORADO SPRINGS — As technology advances, so do the fraudsters who try to get your money and information. Anyone can encounter a phishing attempt. Phishing is a “scam tactic that fraudsters use to trick consumers and employees into revealing personal information about themselves or the companies they work for,” according to the Better Business Bureau. An employee at News5 received dozens of invoices from a company that was sent from what looked like a legitimate PayPal email address.