As immigration debate heats up, migrant encounters in December set record

WASHINGTON - Border officials said they encountered more than 300,000 migrants at the southern border in December, a one-month record that pushed the total for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 to 785,422. It comes as debate on immigration heats up in Washington.


Hobbs pushes for school funding plan, GOP stands by its own proposal

PHOENIX – Gov. Katie Hobbs and Arizona Democrats formally introduced legislation Monday to expand funding for public education and teacher pay, even as Republicans insist they will continue to push their own plan.


Back to life: Turf Paradise kicks off 57-day meet despite offseason closure talk

PHOENIX –  Just months ago, Turf Paradise had been read its last rites after a prospective buyer backed out. Yet Monday, the track opened again for the start of a 57-day meet as it fights to remain relevant in Arizona.


Thrill ride: Radford Racing School drives enthusiasm to new heights at Barrett-Jackson auction

SCOTTSDALE – At the Barrett-Jackson car auction in Scottsdale, Radford Racing School seized the opportunity to engage with car enthusiasts, offering them the chance to not only admire fast cars but also experience the thrill of getting behind the wheel themselves.

Attendees explore the Radford Racing School exhibit at the Barrett-Jackson car auction to learn more about driving high-performance vehicles. (Photo by Joe Eigo/Cronkite News)

Native nations with scarce internet are building their own broadband networks

Native nations have historically lagged in high-speed internet access, which became even more apparent in the COVID-19 pandemic. So some tribes, such as the Hopi, have taken the matter into their own hands by building their own high-speed networks.


Phoenix urgent care workers treat an influx of respiratory illnesses

PHOENIX – Health professionals say it’s not as bad as during the pandemic, but people with respiratory illnesses are filling hospitals and clinics in Maricopa County. Here’s what to expect if you come down with flu-like symptoms and need care.

The Banner Health Urgent Care at Central Avenue and Washington Street in Phoenix on Jan. 22 is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and provides flu shots. (Photo by Jack Orleans/Cronkite News)

Former LPGA tour player Tina Barrett carves new legacy as Ottawa University – Arizona coach

PHOENIX – Ottawa University - Arizona men’s and women’s golf coach Tina Barrett continues her post-LPGA tour legacy by breaking social norms, winning championships and providing everlasting advice for those around her.


Environmental groups champion nature, wildlife and water to Arizona policymakers

PHOENIX – Activist groups and legislators gathered at the state Capitol for “Environmental Day” to address nature, wildlife and water. With the “Save Water, Save Life” theme, dozens of groups advocated for legislative changes and support for the environment and general sustainability.

Greg Clark, burrowing owl habitat coordinator for Wild at Heart, welcomes attendees at the Environmental Day at the Arizona Capitol to learn more about the rescue organization. Photo taken Jan. 25, 2024. (Photo by Kayla Jackson/Cronkite News)

DeWit quits, Trump bails, rally’s cut: It’s been a week for Arizona’s GOP

WASHINGTON - The chairman was ousted over the leak of an embarrassing audio tape, former President Donald Trump backed out of a rally that had to be canceled on the eve of the party's annual meeting. It's been a week for the Arizona Republican Party.


ABOR clarifies UA budget shortfall, says athletics responsible for $35 million of $140 million deficit

TEMPE – Although the University of Arizona’s budget shortfall is closer to $140 million than the $240 million previously reported, the school is prepared to undergo sweeping changes in budget and oversight, including addressing the $35 million shortfall for which the athletic department is responsible.

John Arnold, the executive director of the Arizona Board of Regents, speaks to the board about the financial challenges facing the University of Arizona. (Photo by Bennett Silvyn/Cronkite News)

X-factor: Phoenix Suns’ Grayson Allen emerges as ‘absolute stud’ in season of comebacks and thrills

Grayson Allen has become one of the Suns’ most important players as the team tries to overcome inconsistency and first-half sluggishness.

Grayson Allen's consistent performance has made him an indispensable asset to the Phoenix Suns during the 2023-24 NBA season. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)

Stealing the show: Frankie Collins’ defensive mastery anchors ASU men’s basketball

TEMPE – Known for his exceptional swiping ability, Collins not only bolsters ASU's defensive strategy but also fosters discipline and leadership in the Sun Devils’ pursuit of the Pac-12 crown.

ASU guard Frankie Collins brings intensity on offense and defense to help position the Sun Devils for the No. 1 seed in Pac-12 play. (Photo by Bennett Silvyn/Cronkite News)