Good morning, Maricopa.

After a 31-year-old hiker was found dead at McDowell Sonoran Preserve on Thursday, Dave Cawley—host of the Uinta Triangle podcast about Australian hiker Eric Robinson’s disappearance—stated on KTAR 92.3 FM’s Arizona Morning News that hikers should use safety tools such as GPS devices — satellite phones — and emergency beacons when hiking alone in extreme heat.

51-year-old Manuel Vega Lopez was shot and killed while trimming trees on May 19th+ his family now remembers him.

The Helios Education Foundation marked its 20th anniversary by awarding 20 scholarships of up to $20K to Arizona community college transfer students—honoring recipients like Jasmine Martinez and Susana Nava at the May 7 event where Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego declared Helios Education Foundation Day. This award aims to help adult learners overcome financial barriers and complete their education.

The Center for Biological Diversity has asked U.S. Fish and Wildlife to list the rare Bendire’s thrasher as endangered because its population in Arizona has fallen nearly 90% over the last 50 years due to urban sprawl + climate change.

The agency will have 90 days to review the petition and develop a recovery plan for the species.

Maricopa County and Clear Channel Outdoor launched digital billboards on May 12 to share heat relief resources across the Valley.

The signs display over 200 cooling sites + a free 24-hour service with live help in English and Spanish to assist residents during extreme summer heat.

Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt donated $15,000 to the Pat Tillman Foundation during a youth football camp at Chander High yesterday—he and teammate Jordyn Tyson hosted the event that featured autographs and photos for nearly 90 children.

This donation supports the foundation's mission and continues the player’s commitment to giving back to the community.