Good morning, Maricopa.

SpaceX is launching its Falcon 9 rocket today from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California for a rideshare mission carrying commercial and government payloads; however—the mid-morning launch window from 10:18 to 11:15 a.m. PT and its southern trajectory will likely limit views for Arizonans.

Lt. Arthur Van Haren Jr., a decorated WWII fighter pilot who shot down nine enemy planes for the Navy, returned to Phoenix as a hero but struggled with bad memories from war that hurt his family and career.

His grandson now honors him by preserving his medals at a Tucson museum—keeping alive a story of bravery and hardship.

Authorities advise drivers preparing to travel for Thanksgiving to check vehicle parts, wear seat belts, and plan routes carefully as heavy traffic and variable weather may delay trips.

The state Department of Transportation stated that no major road closures are expected, but drivers should check live updates— especially on Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 60.

The Arizona State football team is ranked No. 20 after beating Colorado 42-17 last week.

The team will play rival Arizona in the Territorial Cup game on Friday at Mountain America Stadium.

Injured ASU quarterback Sam Leavitt—still recovering from foot surgery—appeared at practice on November 25 to support his teammates as they prepared for the upcoming rivalry game with Arizona, although he did not travel with the team for the recent road game against Colorado.