Good morning, this is Tucson Local Pulse for March 1, 2025.

We're excited to share that the idea Museum in Downtown Mesa is unveiling its brand-new space, the idea Lab, today. This innovative maker space merges art and technology, encouraging visitors to explore creativity and problem-solving. The museum is offering free admission today as part of its Family Free Day initiative, supported by Meta. It's a great opportunity for families to experience this new interactive exhibit.

In local news, the Children's Museum in Tucson is hosting Rare Disease Day today. This event serves as a platform for advocacy and awareness, connecting families and caregivers to resources. It's a wonderful chance for our community to come together and support those affected by rare diseases.

Downtown Tucson continues to thrive with new businesses. While no new openings have been reported for 2025 yet, several establishments are set to open soon. Antojitos on Congress Street is in preview, and we're looking forward to the expansion of BATA's patio on Toole Avenue. Food lovers can anticipate the arrival of Cornish Pasty Co. this summer and the Gibson Food Hall & Market in the fall.

On the sports front, the Arizona Wildcats had a strong start at their first-ever Big 12 Indoor Championships yesterday. Seven Wildcats scored points, with three finishing as runners-up. We saw impressive performances in the weight throw, pentathlon, and long jump events. The championships continue today, so let's cheer on our local athletes.

In real estate news, the housing market remains competitive. The median home price in Tucson has seen a slight increase, now hovering around $350,000. Realtors report that homes in central neighborhoods like Sam Hughes and Armory Park are particularly in demand.

Looking at today's weather, we're expecting a beautiful sunny day with highs around 75 degrees. It's perfect weather for outdoor activities, so why not take advantage and explore one of our many hiking trails?

In public safety news, the Tucson Police Department reminds residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. While no major incidents have been reported in the past 24 hours, they emphasize the importance of community involvement in maintaining our city's safety.

On a lighter note, the Espressoul Café, known for its unique coffee creations, is set to open its first brick-and-mortar location this spring. The new spot will feature Persian-inspired decor and an expanded menu, adding another vibrant option to our local coffee scene.

This has been Tucson Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.