Delta force: What makes the COVID-19 variant different, and dangerous
PHOENIX – After a brief period of decline, COVID-19 cases are back on the rise in the United States and experts say the delta variant is to blame. It has been called delta the “fastest and the fittest” of variants for its high transmissibility and rapid spread.
Even in an epically dry year, water flows into parched Colorado River delta
Seven years ago, a pulse of water on the Colorado River at the U.S.-Mexico border temporarily reconnected it to the Pacific Ocean. Mexican and American environmental groups are working to bring water back into this part of the estuary and study what happens.
Environmental remediation costs present challenge for Coyotes’ proposed Tempe arena site
PHOENIX – The Coyotes’ plan for a new stadium in Tempe will have to contend with a proposed $70 million payment for environmental remediation costs. Experts say they will encounter plenty of challenges in the cleanup process, but might be rewarded in kind by the city.
Ducey asks U.S. Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade, outlaw abortions
PHOENIX – Ducey has argued that the power to make the decision to allow abortion should be made at the state level, not the federal government. If Roe v. Wade were overturned, access to legal and safe abortions could be banned almost immediatiely.
Few rental assistance dollars reach renters, as eviction moratorium ends
WASHINGTON - The federal government's COVID-19 moratorium on renter evictions ends Saturday, leaving thousands of Arizona renters vulnerable while state and local officials have distributed just a fraction of the funding aimed at keeping people in their homes.
Former Wranglers preach patience, stability for new USFL
PHOENIX - The founder of The Spring League has announced his intention to bring back a new iteration of the 1980s United States Football League, to begin play in 2022. Players from the previous league have plenty of suggestions for the new USFL’s leadership.
Lake at new SoFi Stadium captures and reuses recycled water
LOS ANGELES – The new SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where the Rams and Chargers will play this season, includes an artificial lake that can capture and reuse stormwater.
Critics: $5.7 million in private funds for ballot audit taints results
WASHINGTON - The private firm hired to audit Maricopa County's 2020 elections said this week that its work was funded by $5.7 million in donations from conservative groups, a revelation that raised as many questions as it answered for critics.
‘Hold tight’: Highly touted Diamondbacks prospect Alek Thomas excited for future
PHOENIX – Playing in his second Futures Game in 2021, Alek Thomas is just one example of the talent in the Diamondbacks’ farm system. His family, many of whom live in Tucson, are thrilled he’s coming up in their home base.
Masks can reduce risk of Valley fever, Arizona experts say
PHOENIX – Wearing a mask not only protects you from COVID-19, it also may help protect you from Valley fever, a fungal disease prevalent in desert soils.
Justice Department issues clearest warning yet on Arizona election audit
WASHINGTON - The Justice Department issued guidance Wednesday on voting rights and on the pitfalls of post-election audits, reminders that were sent to all states but clearly aimed at Arizona and its audit of Maricopa County elections.
Schools chief, health experts call for more precautions after Ducey stands firm on mask protocols
PHOENIX – Gov. Doug Ducey vows to keep Arizona’s ban on mask mandates in place despite the CDC’s updated guidelines asking vaccinated people to wear them. Health experts worry the effects this will have as school is starting for many in the state.
