Good morning, this is Tucson Local Pulse for March 18, 2025.

We start with breaking news from City Hall, where the Tucson City Council is set to vote today on new proposals aimed at addressing homelessness in our community. The measures include banning camping in washes and limiting sleeping in parks and standing in traffic medians. City officials hope these changes will help avoid potential legal claims under Proposition 312, a state initiative allowing property owners to seek tax refunds due to inadequate enforcement of laws concerning homeless encampments. It's a crucial meeting for residents, and we encourage those interested to attend the session at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall on Alameda Street.

As we step outside, the weather in Tucson today is sunny with highs expected to reach around 82 degrees. A gentle breeze will make it a pleasant day for outdoor activities, and as always, we recommend staying hydrated. If you have plans to explore our beautiful parks or attend community events, today offers the perfect backdrop.

Speaking of events, the Tucson community has a busy weekend ahead, highlighted by Marana's Founders' Day celebration on Saturday. This annual event will feature live music, food vendors, and activities for families. It's a great opportunity to connect with neighbors and learn more about Marana's rich history.

On the local business front, we hear that a beloved downtown café is closing its doors after ten years, a bittersweet end for many loyal customers. However, new businesses are also popping up, including a vegan restaurant on Fourth Avenue that opens its doors next week. This shift reflects the vibrant and evolving food scene in our city.

In the job market, Tucson sees a rise in job openings, particularly in the health care and tech sectors. Local businesses report over 2,000 available positions, with many companies looking for skilled workers. If you’re job hunting, now might be an excellent time to check out the opportunities in these fields.

Our local schools also continue to shine. Recently, students from Tucson High School took home the trophy in a state debate competition, showcasing their hard work and dedication. It's inspiring to see young minds making an impact and representing our city with pride.

In sports, the Tucson Roadrunners are gearing up for a critical match tonight against the Ontario Reign after a tough loss in their last game. Fans are hopeful for a turnaround as the team fights for playoff positioning. Meanwhile, high school baseball has been lively, with Ironwood Ridge clinching a victory over Cienega, further igniting team rivalries across our region.

Turning our attention to public safety, there have been reports of a recent string of vehicle-related crimes, including two incidents of stolen cars in midtown. The Tucson Police Department is actively investigating these cases and urging residents to remain vigilant. A notable incident involved a fatal pedestrian collision on Kolb Road, an unfortunate reminder of the need for road safety.

To wrap up on a positive note, we share a feel-good story about an elderly couple in the community who recently received help from volunteers to repair their long-neglected porch. Their joy upon seeing the finished project reminds us of the kindness that exists in Tucson.

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