Good morning, Tucson.

Tucson police say that Pima County Attorney Laura Conover’s short plea deals—such as in the school case—hide a bigger problem with repeat offenders getting light sentences for gun crimes, leaving dangerous criminals on the streets.

More than 40 artists gathered on Saturday at Park Place Mall for Tucson’s first Plein Air Festival—hosted by the Southern Arizona Arts and Culture Alliance—to paint live in a shaded area that kept the summer heat at bay.

They answered questions from mallgoers about how to buy their work.

A draft recovery plan by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service calls for help from other nations and about $1.5 million over 30 years to study and restore the habitat for the endangered Sonoyta mud turtle at Quitobaquito Springs—aiming to add new populations as climate change and water pumping threaten its home.

City officials announced STAR Village—an outdoor safe-sleeping site for 25 women and non-binary people—will open in October along West Grant Road to connect residents with housing services, while local neighbors have expressed safety concerns and launched an online petition with 225 signatures due to not being informed ahead of time. Councilman Kevin Dahl said if the pilot creates problems, he will ask for it to be removed.

Arizona insurance officials warned that healthcare premiums on the Affordable Care Act online marketplace will increase by up to 55% in 2026 due to rising medical costs and the loss of advanced premium tax credits.

Experts say these cuts will force many residents to choose cheaper plans or risk going uninsured—leading to more emergency room visits.

Developers plan to build the Welcome Broadway complex at the southeast corner of East Broadway and South Euclid Avenue along the refurbished Sunshine Mile.

The project will include about 270 market-rate housing units ranging from small studios to 4-bedroom apartments, ground floor retail, a five-story parking garage, and a dog park — plans also call for reopening the adjacent diner with an extended patio — to boost the local area.

Legendary Southern Arizona baseball coach Oscar Romero died Friday at 65 from cancer.

BEER RELEASE: Stadion at Pueblo Vida Brewing Company

3-9 p.m. — Pueblo Vida Brewing Company — On Draft / 16oz 4-Pack — Enjoy a refreshing Ultra IPA perfect for post-workout hydration.

Scialog - Sustainable Minerals, Metals, and Materials

09:00 AM-06:00 PM — The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa — Entry fees vary — Engage with scientists to explore innovative solutions for sustainable material production.

Thirsty Thursday Car Show

6:30-10 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Tucson — Free entry — Enjoy a showcase of stunning cars while unwinding with friends at this lively car show.

Elias Medina Concert

8:30-10:00 p.m. — Rialto Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt sounds of Mexican regional music with Elias Medina's spirited performance.

Oktoberfest Celebration at Pueblo Vida Brewing Company

12-10 p.m. — Pueblo Vida Brewing Company — Cost varies — Celebrate Oktoberfest with stein-full beers and fresh baked pretzels.

Jazz Jam with Max Goldschmid

6:30-9:30 p.m. — The Century Room — $5-$10 + DICE fees — Enjoy a lively jam session with multi-instrumentalist Max Goldschmid and local musicians.

2nd Annual Los Donantes Blood Donor Celebration

1-3 p.m. — Red Cross Foothills Blood and Platelet Donation Center — Free — Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with food, music, and community storytelling while donating blood.

Ashley Gavin Live Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — 191 Toole — Tickets on sale — Enjoy an evening of comedy with Ashley Gavin at this intimate venue.

Evening with Egyptian Oud Master Mohamed Abozekry

6:30-8:00 p.m. — The Century Room — Ticket prices vary — Experience the imagination and improvisation of renowned oud musician Mohamed Abozekry.

Ancient Aliens Live

7:30-9 p.m. — Rialto Theatre — Reserved seating — Experience a night of exploration into the mysteries of ancient aliens.