Good morning, Maricopa.

Funeral arrangements have been announced for a firefighter who died in a crash on his way to work—official service details have not been released.

Arizona State University opened the new Materials-to-Fab Center today to boost semiconductor research with $270 million in funding from Applied Materials—whose investment is about $200 million—and local officials celebrated the advance.

However, plans for a federally funded $1.1 billion R&D center are now likely canceled and its funds may be redirected to further advanced studies.

Residents in Maricopa can plan a short trip to Tecate where the Pan de la Catrina festival will run from Oct 30 to Nov 2 to celebrate Día de Muertos with live music, art, food classes, and a 5K race.

Organizers expect the colorful four-day event to draw 50,000 people—offering a taste of Mexican tradition close to home.

Efforts to limit access to books in Arizona schools and libraries have grown as new laws led to removals and investigations after parental complaints—Maricopa County has moved over 50 kids' sex-ed books to adult sections while debates over what is appropriate for young readers continue.

An independent audit found that the sheriff’s office misused over $160 million meant for court-ordered reforms in a racial profiling case—money spent on extra equipment and office repairs that were not needed.

County officials and sheriff’s attorneys are reviewing the report and planning next steps.

The federal government shutdown has left Arizona’s WIC program at risk as remaining funds for roughly 153000 low-income mothers and children run out by the end of October—state officials are seeking additional funding to keep the aid going.

Clinics remain open for now, but families worry about losing support if Congress does not act soon.

ADOT is reducing traffic congestion on State Route 187 near Sacaton and the Gila River Indian Community by adding turn lanes, widening shoulders, replacing pavement, and improving drainage along a six-mile stretch between SR 87 and SR 387.

The work starts Oct. 14 and will finish by Spring 2026—making the road safer for drivers.

Mercury guard Kahleah Copper scored 11 points late as Phoenix lost Game 3 90-88 to the Las Vegas Aces and now trail 0-3 in the series.

The team must win Game 4—set for a future date—to avoid a sweep.

The Phoenix Mercury are down 0-3 in the WNBA Finals and face elimination as they host Game 4 at Mortgage Matchup Center today at 5 p.m. In Game 3, a late shot by Las Vegas Aces’ A’ja Wilson and an injury to Satou Sabally left the team with a thinner rotation and raised concerns about their defense.

Nissan Pop-up Dealership Event

10 a.m. — Duke's Roadhouse — Free entry — Experience the thrill of test drives and enjoy live music with food at Nissan's first-ever pop-up dealership.