Good morning, Maricopa.

Liberty Wildlife is hosting a Wish Tree event on Sunday, Apr.

26 to celebrate Earth Day. Local residents can bring tree decorations (and wishes) to honor nature at the venue.

Walmart announced plans to remodel 18 Arizona stores in 2026, with upgrades such as wider aisles, improved parking & new product displays at the Maricopa location on W.

Maricopa Casa-Grande Highway.

An ASU-based investigative newsroom, The Beam (focused on education issues), found that several schools have confiscated 3D printed items, including a butterfly knife carried by a fifth grader, as officials report inconsistent parent notifications and consider updating their safety policies.

After a record warm winter and a dry March, officials warn of an early wildfire season — APS plans a 12 to 24 hour power shutoff in targeted areas due to extreme winds and dry terrain.

A new American Lung Association report released on Earth Day shows that Phoenix-Mesa ranks fourth nationally for ozone pollution and 17th for daily particulate matter, raising concerns for local residents with respiratory challenges — the report cites climate change and natural factors as major contributors.

A report from the Arizona Center for Economic Progress shows that since last July over 450,000 people have been removed from SNAP benefits, including 196,000 children, due to new work requirements set by the state.

Local food banks warn that these cuts may strain community resources.

Health inspectors reported that during the week of April 6, a Bashas in Carefree discarded several cheeses because its cooler did not work properly, and a Circle K in Phoenix threw out sandwiches and milk from a walk-in cooler that was too warm.

Both stores are awaiting repairs.

Maricopa County officials reported four new measles cases on April 22 linked to a Mesa youth basketball game; the county’s total now reaches 10—its highest in 30 years—attendees at the event from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Highland Junior High School should monitor for symptoms until May 2.

ASU wide receiver Jordyn Tyson and coach Hines Ward travel to Pittsburgh for the NFL Draft, which runs from today through April 25.

Tyson, seen as a top pick despite past injury setbacks, has impressed with his performance at ASU — keeping his prospects high.