Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Good Morning! On this day in 1928, a crowd gathered at Picacho Pass for the dedication of a stone marker honoring Union soldiers killed in an 1862 Civil War skirmish.

Mesa ranks fourth-lowest in the U.S. for restaurant price inflation at 2.4%, below the 3.2% national average. Have rising prices changed how often you dine out? Tell us in today’s Poll.

Mother’s Day is almost here, and our 2026 Mother’s Day Gift Guide is full of ideas to make shopping easier. Whether you’re looking for something meaningful, useful, or a little indulgent, you’ll find picks for every kind of mom, plus a few worth grabbing for yourself. Skip the last-minute scramble and browse the guide now.

Today’s sponsor, Splash Spotless Cleaning Products, is here to upgrade your spring cleaning routine with a hands-free foam toilet cleaner that tackles stains and odors without scrubbing. Just pour, let it foam, and flush for a fresh, sparkling bathroom.

Take The Flyover with you. Busy day? Listen to our daily 15-minute podcast while commuting, cooking, or walking the dog—your Flyover fix, anywhere.

Town Faces Water Crisis

The town of Kearny imposed severe water restrictions after warning that its Gila River allocations could dry up within three months amid dry conditions.

The crisis is tied to reduced allocations on the Gila River—the town’s sole water supply—based on longstanding water rights, leaving Kearny with far less supply and no alternative source.

Mayor Curtis Stacy said the town—about 85 miles southeast of Phoenix and home to just under 2,000 people—declared an emergency and could run dry by mid-July.

The restrictions limit use to essential needs like drinking and sanitation, banning landscaping, car washing, and pool use, as residents and officials hope for a strong monsoon season.

State Budget Standoff Intensifies

Gov. Katie Hobbs said she will veto all bills until Republicans release a budget proposal, escalating a standoff over state spending.

The move comes after Hobbs walked away from budget talks in March amid disagreements over education funding measure Prop 123 and broader spending priorities.

Republicans have been critical of Hobbs’ budget plan, arguing in part that it relies on uncertain revenue. House Speaker Steve Montenegro called Hobbs’ threat “political theater.”

Lawmakers face a June 30 deadline to pass a budget or risk a July 1 shutdown. Last year, Hobbs announced a similar bill-signing moratorium but lifted it after a compromise.

Missing WWII Marine Laid to Rest

A World War II Marine missing for 83 years was laid to rest Monday in Marana, ending a decades-long mystery for his family.

Pfc. Norton Retzsch, 25, disappeared in 1943 during the Battle of Enogai in the Solomon Islands, where his unit faced harsh jungle conditions and severe supply shortages.

His remains were reburied multiple times and went unidentified for decades until a relative’s DNA and dental records helped confirm his identity.

“After 83 years, it’s a miracle,” a family member said, as relatives gathered to honor him with full military honors. A rosette now marks his name at the Manila American Cemetery, signifying he has been identified.

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➤ Goodyear: A judge declared a mistrial in a child murder case after chain-of-custody issues halted proceedings against two parents accused in their daughter’s 2017 death. (More)

➤ Florence: Arizona National Guard mortarmen trained with live fire at Florence Military Reservation to build coordination and readiness ahead of platoon certification. (Photo)

➤ Bullhead City: A 26-year-old California man drowned near Davis Camp after entering the Colorado River to retrieve a hat. (More)

➤ Statewide: As artificial intelligence expands, some Arizona college students are changing majors, echoing a national trend where 16% have switched fields over job concerns. (More)

➤ Sierra Vista: Police reinstated a bike patrol unit after a decade to improve community engagement and response times. (More)

➤ Yuma: A public meeting on data centers drew protesters, highlighting concerns over water use. No projects are currently under review. (Watch)

➤ Former Arizona Cardinals head coach Dave McGinnis died Monday at 74. Team owner Michael Bidwill said of McGinnis, “No one ever filled that role with more passion, enthusiasm, and charisma.” (More)

➤ Arizona men’s basketball added transfer guards Derek Dixon and JJ Mandaquit to help rebuild its backcourt after key departures. (More)

➤ The Phoenix Mercury selected international prospects Ines Pitarch-Granel 27th overall and Eszter Ratkai 42nd overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft. (More)

➤ The Arizona Diamondbacks are moving Brandon Pfaadt to the bullpen as Merrill Kelly returns to the rotation. Pfaadt posted a 5.94 ERA in 16⅔ innings. (More)

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➤ Arizona Snowbowl reopened for two bonus ski days through today after fresh snowfall. (More)

➤ LG Energy Solution signed a lease for 597,000 square feet of space at an industrial park at West 202 Logistics in Phoenix as it expands its footprint in the Valley. (More)

➤ Gov. Katie Hobbs visited a major geothermal project in Morenci aimed at boosting copper production and advancing Arizona’s push to expand renewable energy. (Photo)

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➤ A baby born at 26 weeks survived after an emergency flight to a Phoenix hospital, with doctors and nurses credited for saving her life over months of surgeries and setbacks. (Watch)

➤ Prescott Valley police will host a free Refuse to Be a Victim safety class June 17, teaching personal safety planning and preparedness for adult residents. (Details)

➤ The historic Cattle Track Arts Compound in Scottsdale will host its first public tour April 25–26, with up to 25 artists and access to rarely opened studios and historic spaces. (Photos)

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