Good morning, Tucson.

Arizona's Children Association is collecting gently used laptops for foster teens to help them start school ready as students head back to school across the state.

Donors can drop off devices to support this practical education drive.

Cote, a 3-year-old Lab mix who knows sit, down, roll over, paw and speak (trained by local handlers), is ready for adoption; the Humane Society of Southern Arizona invites local families to contact them to meet her.

The first slot machines have arrived at Casino Del Sol Vahi Taa'am in Tucson; they are currently in a new warehouse and will be installed on the gaming floor when the new casino opens on Nov.

15 (an important step in setup).

Fifteen-year-old Jenisha Timsina was named overall winner at the Tucson Birthday Art Contest at Slusser Library near Speedway and Stone; her winning design has become an official postcard (celebrating Tucson’s history and culture) for local residents.

UA grad Sydney Townsend returns home this week to perform in the Hell's Kitchen national tour at Centennial Hall (shows run through Sunday) as a swing and understudy for three roles.

Tucson college life is buzzing as nearly 50,000 U of Arizona students and tens of thousands from Pima Community College return in August.

A new back-to-college guide offers tips on budgeting, healthy eating, and building a social life around campus hotspots.

State officials said they will study two water projects to boost supplies by storing surface water underground (and treating wastewater from California) with plans to start soon.

The move comes as the state seeks solutions to its shrinking reserves.

Alvernon Way and 5th Street will close for construction starting at 7 p.m. Friday until 7 a.m. Monday while crews install new asphalt, upgrade traffic signals and complete underground improvements (drivers should plan alternate routes).

The Arizona Department of Transportation is introducing specialty license plates for drivers to support causes such as kidney disease awareness and suicide prevention.

The plates cost $25, with most funds benefiting charities, and redesigned motorcycle plates for Arizona PBS and University of Phoenix are now available online.

State officials will enforce new rules on nicotine products aimed at youth — a measure meant to reduce access and protect health — starting Sept.

12.

An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday as Tucson temperatures are predicted to reach 103 to 111°F, prompting officials to urge outdoor breaks.

Meanwhile, 4 The Weekend spotlights local entertainment with a Wildcat performance blending Broadway style and country music.

The Wildcats won 107 to 85 in the second game of their exhibition series and will complete a three-game schedule against the Lithuanian National Team tomorrow (Saturday).