Wildfires Rage, Middle Housing Discussed, Graduation Celebrations, & Memorial Day Plans - Tucson Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Tucson Local Pulse for Thursday, May 22, 2025. Tucson is on high alert today as the Cody Fire continues to burn in the Santa Catalina Mountains, prompting evacuations in Oracle and San Manuel. Emergency services are working around the clock to contain the blaze, and we'll bring you updates as they become available. In city news, tonight is an important opportunity for residents to have their voices heard about middle housing in Tucson. The Planning and Development Services Department is hosting an in-person meeting from 5:30 to 7 p.m. with free amenities provided. This comes as the City of Tucson Housing and Community Development Department plans to submit a request today to the U.S. Department of Housing for the Lariat Village Affordable Rental Development. Local business groups have recently lined up in opposition to Tucson's Proposition 414, which would increase sales tax by a half-cent per dollar. The funds would boost police and fire departments while offering programs to reduce homelessness, assist with childcare, and support low-income Tucsonans. It's a big day for education in our community as numerous high schools hold graduation ceremonies. Project MORE, Cholla, Innovation Tech, Pueblo, Rincon, Sahuaro, Santa Rita, Sunnyside, and several other high schools will see students walk across the stage today. Yesterday, Pima Community College celebrated its commencement, including the inspiring story of a mother of three who overcame significant hardships to earn her diploma. In sports, University of Arizona throwers are wrapping up their regular season at the Tucson Throws Elite Classic, happening today through May 24 at Drachman Stadium. This weekend will also bring the Tucson Saguaros back to Kino Sports Complex for their Pecos League's Pacific Division games. Looking ahead to the weekend, Memorial Day festivities are beginning to take shape. Wyatt Earp Days kicks off in nearby Tombstone, offering adventures of the old west. For those staying in town, local favorites "A" Mountain and Tumamoc Hill provide excellent opportunities for hiking and spectacular city views. If you're looking for a way to give back, local cyclists are gathering to honor fallen riders and raise awareness for road safety, part of an ongoing effort to make Tucson's streets safer for everyone. Remember that tomorrow begins a busy weekend of events running May 23rd through 25th, with plenty of activities for the whole family. This has been Tucson Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.