Good morning, Tucson.

On Monday at Evergreen Mortuary, Cemetery and Crematory, the Primavera Foundation held National Homeless Persons' Memorial Day to honor 250 Tucson residents who died this year.

The event featured name readings, white rose placements, and community reflections on the need for stronger support — urging greater local care for the vulnerable.

Pope Leo XIV appointed Father James Misko as the new bishop of Tucson this morning.

He will succeed Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger when installed Feb. 20; a press conference and community Mass are scheduled Monday at Bishop Kicanas Pastoral Center and Saint Augustine Cathedral respectively.

Local veteran groups will attend the burial on Thursday at the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Marana to honor Vietnam vet Darrell Lee Arelt—an unaccompanied veteran supported by the local community.

The ceremony begins at 12 p.m. and includes Army representatives, Taps, and a 21-gun salute.

Arizona’s minimum wage will be raised from $14.70 to $15.15 on Jan.

1 due to inflation between Aug. 2024 and Aug. 2025 — the increase follows a voter-approved plan that mandates further adjustments based on cost of living.

Operation Deep Freeze is Tucson’s winter shelter for people experiencing homelessness that will activate if temperatures drop to critical levels.

Residents may register at the Salvation Army Hospitality House (1002 N. Main Ave.) from 3 to 5 p.m., with additional intakes for men and women at local centers.

Gov. Hobbs announced a milestone as $642 million in medical debt has been cancelled for over 485,000 Arizonans while an additional $213 million in relief will be mailed this week (using ARPA funds).

University of Arizona researchers have unveiled an AI wearable that detects early frailty signs to help prevent falls and hospitalizations among seniors.

The soft mesh sleeve worn on the lower thigh uses tiny sensors, Bluetooth connectivity (with long-range wireless charging) to enable early clinical intervention.

Holiday travel rush started at Tucson International Airport on Saturday at *Old Pueblo* when travelers from across the country began arriving.

Airports nationwide are set to prepare for record crowds as the season continues with potential delays.

Arizona's basketball team closed its pre-Christmas schedule with a 36 point win over Bethune Cookman at McKale Center on Dec.

22. Brayden Burries scored 20 points and Mabil Mawut was ejected — a rare bench incident; practice resumes on Dec. 26 and the team hosts next game on Dec. 29.

Christmas Brunch Buffet

1:15-7:15 p.m. — Tanque Verde Ranch — Adults $80, Children $40 — Indulge in a festive buffet featuring holiday favorites in the serene Sonoran Desert.

Calgary Wranglers vs. Tucson Roadrunners

7-8:30 p.m. — Tucson Convention Center — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Tucson Roadrunners cross hockey sticks with the Calgary Wranglers in a thrilling ice hockey matchup.

Howe Gelb & The Benedictine Players Concert

6:30-8:30 p.m. — La Rosa — Cost info not available — Experience the melodic tunes of Howe Gelb live with The Benedictine Players.

An Evening with Bruce Hornsby

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Fox Tucson Theatre — Celebrate New Year's Eve with the diverse music of Bruce Hornsby in a 20th Anniversary celebration.

Birding for EveryBODY: Agua Caliente Park

8-10 a.m. — Agua Caliente Regional Park — Free registration — Explore the diverse birdlife in an accessible setting perfect for nature enthusiasts.

The Wiz Musical

6-11 Jan — Centennial Hall UA — Ticketed entry — Experience the powerhouse revival of the beloved classic with stunning choreography and a modern twist.

Sinne Eeg and Josh Nelson Live Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — The Century Room — $25-$35 + DICE fees — Experience the captivating jazz artistry of Danish vocalist Sinne Eeg alongside acclaimed pianist Josh Nelson.

Tesoro Live Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — La Rosa — Check event page for cost — Experience the vibrant Tesoro live at Tucson's stunning new multi-arts venue.

Stargazing at Canoa Ranch

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Historic Canoa Ranch — Free but registration required — Experience the wonders of the night sky with telescopes and expert astronomers.

Iowa Wild at Tucson Roadrunners

7-8:30 p.m. — Tucson Arena — Ticket information available — Experience thrilling AHL hockey as the Roadrunners showcase their talented prospects against the Wild.