Good morning, Maricopa.

Parents of elementary school children in Maricopa say district officials did not handle chemical smell complaints properly—some claim the officials exposed the students to contaminated air.

Mountain View High School offers several clubs that help students feel included.

The clubs give students a chance to connect (fostering a sense of belonging) during school.

Trichomonosis is spreading among birds in the area and wildlife workers reported a rise in sick raptors and owlets this summer; experts advise cleaning birdbaths regularly with a 10% bleach solution—rinsing them thoroughly to help stop the spread.

Residents are urged to take these steps to protect birds from the potentially fatal infection.

Ken Schutz, who led Desert Botanical Garden for 24 years, will step down later this fall—he said the new leader will face tough challenges like high heat and drought that harm desert plants—as efforts to save the local Sonoran ecosystem continue.

The CDC has issued a travel warning after a chikungunya outbreak in China reported over 7,000 cases since early July; the mosquito-borne virus causes fever, joint pain, muscle pain, and rash.

In Maricopa, only two travel-related cases were recorded in 2024, and health officials urge residents and travelers to take precautions+ use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Hospice of the Valley is now approved by the Arizona health department to train memory care staff at assisted living homes so they can care better for people with dementia.

All staff must complete eight hours of training—including video lessons and a short in-person session—by September 30 and then add four hours each year, and about 1,500 individuals from 375 homes have already reached out.

Former ASU running back Cam Skattebo got emotional when he received a signed throwback Oilers jersey during a Fanatics event—he was paired with ex-NFL star Eddie George and said the gesture meant a lot knowing it came from someone who truly understands what it takes to succeed.

Skattebo expressed his gratitude as a sign of support while he gears up for his future career.