Good morning, Tucson.

Located at 3392 E. 22nd St, the Purple Penguin Candy Emporium saw a surge in customers after community support responded to a report on its struggles following the 22nd Street Bridge closure; owner Gigi Spinks cautions that continued construction (set to last three years) means the challenge is not over.

The West Shop in Catalina Foothills uses all proceeds from item sales to fund local charities and has supported community programs for women, children, and seniors for over 50 years near Foothills Whole Foods.

Tucson city officials broke ground today on a new skate park on Cushing Street — the park will offer ramps and seating for skaters and families.

Tucson will host its 29th annual 'A' Mountain fireworks display on Saturday, July 4 at Sentinel Peak Park starting at 9 p.m. Sponsored by Desert Diamond Casino and Entertainment Group, free viewing areas open downtown plus designated parking and road closures ensure safety.

Tucson's Darling Geomatics at the University of Arizona Tech Park uses drones + LiDAR and thermal imaging to help local industries map land and inspect infrastructure; its advanced methods are set to boost surveying efficiency across Southern Arizona.

The Pima County GED program achieved a 98% graduation rate, well above the state's 80% high school rate, and local education officials say the strong results mark a milestone for adult learners + boosting local education opportunities.

University of Arizona is receiving over $3.7 million from the USDA to protect livestock from screwworm infestations by boosting research, surveillance, and education across 15 counties and 22 tribes.

The project will unite ranchers + veterinarians with state partners to improve early detection.

After Tuesday's negotiations failed to secure a new deal, bus drivers reported to work Wednesday and bus service ran as usual; union members will review Sun Tran's latest offer on July 11 and 12.

Arizona law permits fireworks only on approved dates, times, and areas (listed in official guidelines) to keep celebrations safe; residents must review the rules to avoid violations.

Cal-Maine Foods, Versova and Hickman's Egg Ranch (the state's largest producer) will pay $3.3 million and donate 53 million eggs to food banks over alleged price fixing from June 2022 to March 2025.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said the settlement holds the companies accountable while court approval is pending.

The Grant Road Improvement Project is underway in midtown & many drivers ask when the work will be finished.

Arto Brick purchased the former Sam Levitz building (123,394 sqft) for $8.6 million at 3430 E.

36th St from 36th & Palo Verde Investors.

Casey Hadland Live Performance

10:30 p.m. — The Century Room — $5-10 + Dice Fees — Enjoy a late-night show with drummer Casey Hadland and his band in a cozy venue.

Diamonds in the Sky Celebration

5:30-9 p.m. — Kino Veterans Memorial Stadium — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with baseball, fireworks, and family fun at this annual Tucson event.

Jazz Jam with Cameron Davidson

6:30-9:30 p.m. — The Century Room — $5-$10 + DICE fees — Enjoy an evening of jazz with Cameron Davidson and the house band, featuring an open jam session.

Late Night with Saxophonist Ben Canfield

10:30 p.m. — The Century Room — Free entry — Enjoy late night vibes featuring live saxophone from Ben Canfield after the Saturday night show.

P.O.P - The Paul Opocensky Project

8 AM – 12 PM — St. Philip's Plaza Market — Free entry — Singer-songwriter Paul Opocensky delivers epic shows of original music and soulful covers.

Advancing STEM Research Teaching Conference

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — Community Foundation for Southern Arizona — Free workshops — Enhance your STEM teaching strategies with intensive professional development over four days.

Breakthrough Basketball Shooting & Ball Handling Camp

— Jul 14-16 — Sporting Chance Center — $97 for observing coaches — Sharpen your basketball skills with high-intensity camps focused on shooting and ball handling.

Hot Jazz Wednesday with Marco & The Polos

6:30-10 p.m. — The Century Room — $10-$15 + DICE fees — Enjoy a lively night of traditional New Orleans jazz led by multi-instrumentalist Marco Rosano.

Happy Together Tour

Nostalgia Concert Series — Summer 2026 — Fox Tucson Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the hits of the 1960s and '70s with an evening of unforgettable music.

The Paul Opocensky Project

8 AM – 12 PM — St. Philip's Plaza Market — Free entry — Experience the soulful acoustic grunge of live music by Paul Opocensky in Tucson's vibrant marketplace.