Arizona venues get $45 million in COVID relief, but many still waiting

WASHINGTON - Federal officials have awarded $45.3 million in COVID-19 relief funds to 68 Arizona concert venues, a vast improvement over the single grant awarded a month ago but still far short of the need, advocates say.


They’re not counting their chickens but … Suns fans torn between sweep, Game 5 at home

PHOENIX - The Suns’ dominant win against the Milwaukee Bucks Thursday night had fans flying high, suggesting a sweep is possible. But some admit they would rather see a Game 5 at home.


Black-footed ferret on the way back, but hurdles remain, experts say

WASHINGTON - Federal officials want to greatly expand habitats for black-footed ferrets in Arizona and possibly into neighboring states, but the endangered animal, once thought extinct, still faces several hurdles, experts say.


As Chris Paul chases title, question lingers: Will he play for Suns next season?

Chris Paul joined elite company in Michael Jordan after his finals debut. But will he still be playing for the Suns next season?


‘This funky game’: Korfball players struggle to grow sport in Arizona and U.S.

PHOENIX – In the 1980s, David Warren of Maricopa was part of the United States korfball team that earned a bronze medal at the World Games. Since then, the sport has faded even further into the background.


A PSA on SPF: Tips on getting the most protection from sunscreen

PHOENIX – Arizonans are at a particular risk for skin damage by the sun, wearing sunscreen prevents exposure to harmful UV rays and sunburns.


Ice cream and puppets: Arts grant funds mobile family theater

PHOENIX – “Sesame Street” puppeteer Stacey Gordon received a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts to bring a mobile puppet show to metro Phoenix children of all ages.


Arizona’s ban on mask mandates in schools criticized by health experts

PHOENIX – Health experts speaking on behalf of the Committee to Protect Health Care have expressed concern regarding Arizona’s decision to ban mandatory mask-wearing and COVID-19 testing in public schools.


Traffic stop: Commuting times, costs fell sharply during pandemic year

WASHINGTON - The COVID-19 pandemic led to sharp drops in commuting last year, with cities in Arizona and across the U.S. seeing drops of 50% or more in the number of hours and dollars they wasted, and the gallons of gas burned, while stuck in traffic, a new report shows.


The Cam Payne trail: NBA G League experience in Texas prepared Suns guard for success

PHOENIX - Between January and March 2020, Cameron Payne used a stint with the Texas Legends of the G League to prove that he belonged in the NBA. He confirmed that again in Game 1 of the NBA Finals.


After the flames: Santa Catalina Mountains rebounding from Bighorn Fire a year ago

TUCSON – A year later, plants and wildlife are returning to the Santa Catalina Mountains after one of the state’s largest wildfires destroyed nearly 120,000 acres.


From tragedy to triumph: Suns’ Chris Paul, Monty Williams share deep bond

PHOENIX – Chris Paul and Monty Williams have been through a lot together. They reunited in Phoenix, where the Suns will play Game 1 of the NBA Finals.