Good morning, Tucson.

Construction crews began installing fencing at Santa Rita Park on April 21 as part of an $8 million project to add a splash pad, new playground, and walking paths.

City officials said the work, funded by Prop 407 bond money, will last through summer and a groundbreaking is set for Thursday, April 24th — marking a key step toward a more vibrant community space.

Ryan Romero Encinas pleaded guilty to manslaughter on March 14 for shooting and killing 19-year-old Minhaj Jamshidi after an argument at University of Arizona’s sand volleyball courts and was sentenced to 13 years in jail (he was arrested a few days later at a nearby apartment complex).

A suspect is on the run after firing multiple shots at a Tucson police officer from a car in the Balboa Heights neighborhood—police are investigating the incident.

Tucson residents seeking new jobs will attend the News 4 Tucson Job Fair on May 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at DoubleTree by Hilton Tucson Reid Park—where more than 40 local businesses will offer on-site interviews and sign-on bonuses.

Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration will enforce REAL ID requirements at Tucson International Airport and all U.S. commercial airports, so travelers must show a federally compliant ID.

Arizona residents should schedule an appointment for an Arizona Travel ID soon + passports and Veterans Health Identification Cards will still be accepted.

Today, Tucson City Manager Tim Thomure presented a $2.4B budget plan that has a small property tax increase and adds $6.6M for free buses until a new fare system is made—City Council will review the proposal this week.

The plan also cuts some employee benefits and sets a process to replace the Ward 5 seat after Richard Fimbres resigns on May 1.

A University of Arizona doctor testified on Capitol Hill to push for using artificial intelligence to help screen veterans for sleep apnea—he and his team have already integrated an AI tool into the electronic medical record system to assist primary care doctors.

This tool may help detect the condition earlier among a community where about 10% are veterans.

Midland - The Get Lucky Tour

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Tucson Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of country music with Midland and special guests Flatland Cavalry.

P.O.P - The Paul Opocensky Project

12-6 p.m. — Three Canyon Beer and Wine Garden — Free entry — Enjoy a laid-back afternoon with heartfelt folk rock and gospel tunes by Paul Opocensky.

Public Mirror Lab Tours

1-2:30 p.m. — University of Arizona's Steward Observatory Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory — Check website for pricing — Discover the innovative engineering behind the world's largest telescope mirrors.

AR Flamenco: Tablao Flamenco Show

6:30 p.m. — The Century Room — $25-$35 — Experience an authentic flamenco performance highlighting local musicians and the talented dancer Angelina Ramirez.

Public Mirror Lab Tours

1-2:30 p.m. — University of Arizona's Steward Observatory Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory — Free entry — Explore cutting-edge telescope technology and how it helps us look deep into the universe.

Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab Tour

1-1:30 p.m. or 3-3:30 p.m. — Steward Observatory (University of Arizona) — Admission required — Explore cutting-edge telescope technology that shapes our understanding of the universe.

Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab Tour

1-1:30 p.m. / 3-3:30 p.m. — Steward Observatory — Free entry — Discover how groundbreaking engineering creates the world's largest telescope mirrors at this exclusive lab tour.

PNMT Cervical Spine Workshop

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Arizona School of Medical Massage and Wellness — $445, $405 early bird — Enhance your skills in problem-solving neck pain for massage therapy with hands-on experience.

Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus 85th Anniversary Weekend

2-3:30 p.m. — Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus — $85 fee includes multiple events — Celebrate 85 years of music with an open house and reception honoring Dr. Julian Ackerley.

Morrissey Concert

8:30 PM – 12:30 AM — Centennial Hall UA — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic frontman of The Smiths in a night of indie rock and Britpop nostalgia.