Featured stories

Thank you Saturday

Shoutout to Darlene B., Laura K. and Andrew C. for donating to Arizona Luminaria.

Our reporting exists because readers step up to support it. Member contributions are one of the most important ways our nonprofit newsroom stays independent.

If this newsletter is part of your routine, please consider becoming a member today.

Flickers 🕯️

Please fill out this quick submission form to suggest a future Flicker. 

If you loved the book or movie “The Martian,” check out Northern Arizona University’s space farming project.

Iskashitaa Refugee Network is hosting a Spring Fair on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 3736 E 2nd St in Tucson. The event features a plant sale, craft vendors showcasing refugee artisans, an international food court, live music from Curt Beall, The Acoustinists, and more, and a Refugee Garden Art exhibit. Learn more.

Arizona State University’s Morrison Institute for Public Policy will hold an event for experts to discuss an upcoming report on how the state can meet its current and future housing needs. The “Housing Arizona” report briefing will take place on Thursday, April 23, at 9:30 a.m. at Rio Salado College in Tempe. Register for free. 

Get ready to vote in Oro Valley. The Oro Valley Chamber will host a candidate forum at 4:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, April 23, at Oro Valley Church of the Nazarene. A live stream will also be available on YouTube.

Pima Community College’s Music Department kicks off its Spring Music Series on April 27, with nine student concerts running through May 12 at the West Campus Center for the Arts, 2202 W. Anklam Road. The lineup spans jazz, mariachi, classical orchestra, choral works, and a staging of “Little Shop of Horrors.” Most concerts are $6-7; the String Ensemble (May 7) and Musical Theatre Workshop (May 12) are free. See the full schedule and buy tickets.

Attend a public hearing about air pollution. The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality announced Friday that a public comment period is open through May 24 for a proposed air quality permit for Pratt & Whitney Engine Services. The permit would cover research and development activities for jet engines at the company’s facility on South Alvernon Way at the Tucson International Airport. The draft permit sets emissions limits for several regulated pollutants, including hazardous air pollutants. A virtual public hearing is scheduled for 3 p.m. April 29, where officials will provide information and accept public comments on the proposal. Residents may review permit documents online or at PDEQ offices and submit written comments by mail or email. After the comment period closes, PDEQ will make a final decision on whether to issue the permit.