#arizona

7-Eleven to Close Over 600 Stores in 2026, Including Potential Arizona Closures 7-Eleven, the global convenience store chain, has announced plans to close 645 gas stations and convenience stores across North America in 2026, marking the most significant round of store closures in its history. This decision follows a trend of gradual closures over the past few years, with the company shuttering 444 stores in 2024 and approximately 500 stores in 2025. The closures are attributed to declining performance in specific regions and a long-term decline in cigarette sales, which once constituted a major revenue stream for the company. The strategic shift comes as 7-Eleven aims to reposition its North American operations by emphasizing fresh food offerings and expanding delivery services. These changes were outlined during a second-quarter earnings call in 2024, where the company highlighted its focus on adapting to evolving consumer preferences and market demands. The closures are part of a broader effort to streamline operations and prioritize locations with higher profitability potential. While the company has not disclosed a specific list of stores slated for closure, the decision to target underperforming locations suggests that areas with low foot traffic or declining sales are likely to be affected. This approach aligns with the company’s efforts to optimize its store network and allocate resources more effectively. Arizona, which currently hosts around 140 7-Eleven stores, remains a potential area of impact. Most of these locations are concentrated in Phoenix and Tucson, but the company’s focus on low-traffic areas implies that closures could occur in less densely populated regions. However, without an official list of affected stores, it is difficult to determine the exact number of closures in Arizona.#arizona #tucson #7eleven #north_america #phoenix

NCAA Tournament 2026 Probabilities: Selecting All Elite Eight Games, Including a Trio of Top Seeds The NCAA Tournament may not be as unpredictable as last year, when the top four seeds reached the Final Four, but it remains a fiercely competitive event. While there have been some surprises this season, the path to the Elite Eight still holds the potential for three top seeds to advance to the Final Four. These three teams are currently considered favorites for this weekend’s matchups. Whether the tournament will continue to deliver chaos or follow a more predictable pattern remains to be seen. Here are the selections for the Elite Eight games, as outlined by BetMGM’s betting odds: Illinois (-6.5) over Iowa Illinois’ victory over Houston, the second-seeded team from their region, sets up a showdown against the ninth-seeded team, marking the first time the Fighting Illini have reached the Final Four since 2005. Illinois is a formidable squad, capable of finishing as high as first place, despite finishing second in their conference. The team has endured four overtime losses in their first nine NCAA Tournament games, yet they boast an efficient offense and a potential NBA lottery pick in freshman guard Keaton Wagler. While Iowa, the ninth seed, is a tough opponent, Illinois’ size and shooting accuracy—hitting 62.1% of their three-point attempts—gave them an edge in their previous matchup. Iowa’s recent strong performance, including a comeback win over Nebraska, does not diminish Illinois’ status as the superior team in this matchup. Arizona (-6.5) over Purdue Arizona has dominated the NCAA Tournament this season, defeating opponents by margins of 34, 12, and 21 points. Their Sweet 16 victory over Arkansas was particularly impressive, as they shot 37 of 58 field goals (64%) against the Razorbacks.#arizona #illinois #iowa #purdue #ncaa_tournament_2026

A Breezy Weekend Ahead as Arizona Prepares for Cooler Temperatures Phoenix, Arizona, is set to experience a slight cooldown this weekend after hitting another record high temperature on Friday. Saturday’s high is expected to remain in the upper 90s, though this is still significantly above the average high of 81 degrees for this time of year. Meteorologists anticipate a weak weather disturbance moving through the state, which will introduce some clouds and breezy conditions. Easterly winds are forecasted to reach speeds of 15 to 25 mph in the afternoon. The low clouds that formed Saturday morning caused temporary disruptions at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, leading to ground stops for incoming and outgoing flights, as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration. This system may also bring scattered showers and thunderstorms to Northern Arizona on Sunday and Monday. While the heat wave is expected to persist through Tuesday, with temperatures remaining in the 90s, a low-pressure system is set to arrive by Wednesday, marking the end of the two-week heatwave. This system will bring a slight chance of light showers to the Valley on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Temperatures are projected to drop into the 80s by Wednesday, with the cooler trend continuing through next weekend. The National Weather Service indicates that the Valley will likely see temperatures in the 80s for the remainder of the week, providing a welcome reprieve from the recent heat. The weather shift highlights the dynamic nature of Arizona’s climate, where rapid temperature changes are common. Residents are advised to stay prepared for varying conditions, including the possibility of thunderstorms in the northern regions.#national_weather_service #arizona #federal_aviation_administration #phoenix #phoenix_sky_harbor_international_airport

Purdue Faces Arizona in Elite Eight Clash Purdue will take on Arizona in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA tournament on Saturday, March 28, with the game scheduled to start at 8:49 p.m. ET. The matchup will be broadcast on TBS and truTV, with commentators Brian Anderson, Jim Jackson, and Allie LaForce providing coverage. A victory for the Boilermakers would secure their place in the Final Four, set to take place in Indianapolis the following weekend. The two teams have a history of competition, with their most recent meeting occurring at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on December 16, 2023, during the Indy Classic. Purdue emerged victorious in that contest, defeating Arizona 92-84. The Wildcats, who advanced to the National Championship Game that year, will now face the Boilermakers in a rematch with significant stakes. Purdue’s dominance over Arizona in recent years has been notable, with the Boilermakers securing three consecutive wins against the Wildcats. These victories occurred in 2007, 2017, and 2023, showcasing a consistent edge in their matchups. The 2023 game, played in Indianapolis, marked the latest chapter in this rivalry, with Purdue’s success continuing to shape their path to the Elite Eight. Purdue’s journey to the Elite Eight was defined by a thrilling Sweet 16 showdown against Texas. The game, which came down to the final seconds, saw the Boilermakers overcome a 77-77 tie with 11.9 seconds remaining. Senior guard Braden Smith initially took the final shot, but it missed. However, forward Trey Kaufman-Renn secured the rebound and tipped the ball into the basket with 0.7 seconds left, sealing a 79-77 victory. The Boilermakers’ path to the Sweet 16 included dominant performances in the first two rounds. They defeated Queens 104-71 in the opening round, showcasing their offensive firepower.#indianapolis #arizona #purdue #elite_eight #brian_anderson

Behind the scenes of the NCAA Tourney in San Jose SAN JOSE — Arkansas freshman Darius Acuff Jr. reflected on his decision to decline an invitation to join USA Basketball’s U19 team last summer, emphasizing his bond with coach Tommy Lloyd. Acuff, who will lead the Razorbacks into a Sweet 16 matchup against Lloyd’s Arizona team, described playing for the UA coach as “one of the great experiences of my lifetime.” The 2024 FIBA U18 AmeriCup MVP highlighted the emotional weight of informing Lloyd of his choice, stating, “I didn’t want to, but I couldn’t just leave a message. I had to hit him back. I love coach Tommy. He’s a great coach.” Acuff’s decision to prioritize his college team over the USA squad was driven by family and team dynamics. “I wanted to be on my team the whole summer and get closer with them,” he said. While he declined to comment on similarities between Arizona’s Wildcats and the USA’s U18 team, he praised Lloyd’s coaching philosophy, calling him “a great connector coach” who instills confidence and competitiveness. Lloyd, in turn, praised Acuff’s character and talent, calling him “a supreme talent” and “a great young man.” The coach noted Acuff’s ability to elevate his game in high-stakes moments, describing him as someone who “has the eye of the tiger” and thrives under pressure. “I’m sure we’re going to get a great effort out of Darius tomorrow,” Lloyd said ahead of the game. The matchup between Arkansas and Arizona drew insights from Texas assistant coach David Miller, a UA graduate with deep ties to the program. Miller, who previously coached under Sean Miller at Xavier and Texas, highlighted Arizona’s physicality and defensive versatility. “They’re as athletic as any team I’ve ever scouted,” he said, noting Arizona’s ability to switch defenses without losing effectiveness.#arizona #arkansas #darius_acuff_jr #tommy_lloyd #san_jose

Arizona Dominates LIU in NCAA Tournament First Round Arizona secured a decisive victory over LIU in the NCAA Tournament first round on March 20, 2026, with the final score reflecting a commanding performance. The Wildcats, ranked No. 1, never allowed their opponents to take the lead, showcasing their dominance throughout the game. The LIU Sharks, seeded No. 16, faced an uphill battle as Arizona’s offensive efficiency and defensive intensity proved insurmountable. Arizona’s Ivan Kharchenkov led the charge with a double-double performance, tallying 14 points and 10 rebounds while contributing two assists. Brayden Burries added 18 points, including four three-pointers, to bolster Arizona’s scoring attack. LIU’s Jamal Fuller and Mason Porter-Brown contributed 11 and 15 points respectively, but their efforts were overshadowed by Arizona’s relentless play. The game’s betting lines highlighted Arizona’s overwhelming advantage. The Wildcats were required to win by 31 points or more to cover the spread, a target they easily surpassed. The over/under for total points was set at 147.5, and the teams combined for 150 points, giving bettors who took the over a clear win. Arizona’s victory at -100000 odds meant a $100,000 bet would yield a total return of $100,100. Key moments in the game underscored Arizona’s dominance. In the first half, the Wildcats executed a 15-4 run over 4 minutes and 34 seconds, extending their lead to 15-6. A subsequent 20-5 surge over 6 minutes and 52 seconds pushed Arizona to a 47-23 advantage. In the second half, Arizona maintained control with a 12-4 run early in the second period, widening the gap to 61-32. Despite a brief 12-4 run by LIU later in the game, Arizona’s final 10-0 stretch over 3 minutes and 33 seconds sealed their fate, leaving the Sharks trailing 78-47 at that point.#arizona #liu #brayden_burries #ivan_kharchenkov #jamal_fuller

Arizona dominates LIU in March Madness opener to end best season in 14 years The LIU Sharks’ historic season came to an end in a lopsided NCAA Tournament loss to No. 1 seed Arizona, marking the conclusion of their best campaign in 14 years. The 16th-seeded Sharks fell to the Big 12 champions 92-58 at Viejas Arena, ending a run that included NEC regular-season and postseason titles. Despite the defeat, the team’s journey to the tournament represented a significant turnaround under coach Rod Strickland, who emphasized pride in his players’ effort and resilience. Strickland, a former Knicks point guard, acknowledged the challenge of facing a top-tier program like Arizona. “We played in the NEC, and we played a style. And we came in here and we tried to play that style, but we were playing against the top team in the country in length,” he said. The Sharks struggled from the outset, trailing 12-2 just 3:01 into the game. Arizona’s dominance was evident early, with the Wildcats leading by 24 points at halftime. The team’s physicality and shooting accuracy proved too much for LIU, as Arizona outrebounded them 52-31 and controlled the paint with ease. Arizona’s two projected NBA draft picks, Koa Peat and Brayden Burries, combined for 33 points on 11-of-22 shooting, while 7-foot-2 center Motiejus Krivas dominated inside with nine points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. The Wildcats also shot 50% from beyond the arc, dispelling any doubts about their three-point shooting. LIU’s struggles were evident in their shooting efficiency, as key players like Malachi Davis and Jamal Fuller combined for just 5-of-21 field goal attempts. Despite the loss, the Sharks’ season was a testament to their growth. Mason Porter-Brown led the team with 15 points, while Greg Gordon added 12.#arizona #rod_strickland #brayden_burries #liu_sharks #kao_peat

Powerball Winning Numbers Revealed for March 21, 2026 The Powerball lottery results for Saturday, March 21, 2026, have been officially announced. The winning numbers are 12, 59, 36, 28, and 41, with the Powerball number 2 and a Power Play multiplier of 2x. These numbers were drawn during the evening session, marking the latest update to the game’s results. The jackpot for this drawing is estimated at $120 million, with a cash option valued at $54.4 million. This amount represents a significant increase from the previous jackpot, which was won on March 2, 2026, by a single player in Arkansas. That winner claimed $251 million, making it one of the largest Powerball payouts to date. In addition to the Powerball jackpot, the Mega Millions lottery is also active, with its current prize pool standing at $60 million. Both lotteries are popular among players, with their respective websites providing detailed information on rules, past winners, and upcoming draws. The next Powerball drawing is scheduled for Monday, March 23, 2026, following the Saturday night event. Powerball drawings occur three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays—at 10:59 p.m. local time. Players are advised to purchase tickets before the cutoff deadlines, which vary by state. In New York, tickets can be bought in-store or online until 10 p.m. on the day of the draw, while New Jersey and Connecticut have slightly different times, with New Jersey’s deadline set at 9:45 p.m. and Connecticut’s at 10 p.m. To participate in Powerball, players select five numbers from 1 to 69 and one Powerball number from 1 to 26. Matching all six numbers wins the jackpot, while smaller prizes are awarded for matching fewer numbers. The odds of securing the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million, highlighting the game’s competitive nature.#new_york #new_jersey #arizona #powerball #mega_millions

Ranking All 32 Remaining March Madness Teams by Odds to Win NCAA Tournament The Men's NCAA Tournament has narrowed from 68 teams to 32 after the First Four round, with several upsets shaking up the bracket. Miami (Ohio) secured its first Quad 1 victory of the season by defeating SMU, thanks to a standout performance from its men’s swim team, which distracted a Mustang player at the free-throw line while wearing Speedos. Further upsets unfolded in the first round, including 12-seed High Point upsetting 5-seed Wisconsin and 11-seed VCU edging out 6-seed North Carolina in overtime. Otega Oweh’s game-tying 3-pointer from near the logo kept 7-seed Kentucky from suffering an early exit, forcing overtime in Friday’s games. All top-four seeds advanced in their first tournament games, with John Calipari’s Arkansas Razorbacks showcasing their offensive prowess against Hawai’i. Darius Acuff Jr. scored 24 points to lead the SEC Tournament champions, positioning them as a serious contender for a deep March run. The tournament’s early rounds have already reshaped the landscape, influencing how oddsmakers in Vegas assess the likelihood of each team advancing to the Final Four on April 6 at Lucas Oil Stadium. Current betting odds reflect the shifting dynamics, with Arizona emerging as the top favorite at +325 to win the national championship. Michigan remains the second-best bet at +375, while Duke, after a near-upset loss to 16-seed Siena, dropped to +425. The Blue Devils now face a second-round matchup against No. 9 TCU. These odds, as of Friday, March 20, highlight the unpredictability of the tournament, where underdogs have already disrupted the expected path for higher-seeded teams. The full 2026 NCAA men’s tournament schedule has been updated, setting the stage for the next phase of competition.#arizona #duke #ncaa_tournament #miami_ohio #march_madness

An unprecedented surge of extreme heat is sweeping across the United States this week and into the following days, shattering monthly temperature records by significant margins. While the most severe impacts are felt by those directly exposed to the heat, visual data and charts illustrate the vast scale of this extreme weather event. The record-breaking temperatures are already breaking previous norms, with California and Arizona experiencing daily highs exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) in March—a dramatic departure from the typical range, which is usually at least 30 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius) lower during this month. These temperatures mark a major deviation from historical patterns, highlighting the intensity of the current heatwave. The phenomenon is not confined to just two states. According to an analysis by the Associated Press, roughly a quarter of March heat records at 400 weather stations across the U.S. may be tied or broken this month. While these readings have not yet been officially verified by the National Weather Service, initial temperature data from dozens of U.S. cities clearly indicate a trend of extreme warmth. The heatwave is expected to persist for several weeks, with the National Weather Service forecasting clusters of potentially record-breaking temperatures concentrated in the West. The hottest conditions are likely to be centered in Southwestern states such as Arizona, which, while accustomed to desert heat, typically experiences such extremes only during summer months. Southern California is projected to see the highest temperatures, with Palm Springs recording a daily high of 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius) on Thursday. This surpasses the previous March record of 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) set in 1966.#california #national_weather_service #arizona #associated_press #world_weather_attribution

Ranking the Top 50 Men's College Basketball Players in March Madness The NCAA tournament is shaped as much by the players as by the brackets, with standout performers capable of elevating their teams to national championships or boosting their NBA draft stock. This list of the top 50 players to watch in March Madness considers not only talent but also potential impact on their teams' tournament runs, excluding those unlikely to advance beyond early rounds. Mid-major breakout candidates are also highlighted, alongside All-Americans and future lottery picks. Five teams—Arizona, Florida, Iowa State, Michigan, and UConn—each contributed three players to the list, while Duke, BYU, Arkansas, Kansas, Tennessee, and Louisville had two. The rankings reflect a blend of skill, team context, and tournament readiness. Miami (Ohio) guard Suder, a senior, led his team to a perfect regular-season record after rejecting NIL offers from power programs. Averaging 14.6 points and 4.0 assists while shooting 42.9% from three, Suder’s decision to stay at Miami spurred key returns, positioning the RedHawks as a top contender. Hofstra’s Davis, a senior guard, emerged as a premier mid-major scorer, averaging 20.2 points and nearly 40% from three. His ability to deliver in high-stakes games, including 29-point outings against Pitt and Syracuse, underscores his value. California Baptist’s Daniels, a senior guard, is a 23.2-point-per-game scorer with a knack for big numbers. His 41-point performance in the WAC semifinals and 47-point outburst against Utah Valley highlight his scoring prowess. South Florida’s Johnson, a redshirt freshman, played a pivotal role in the Cowboys’ tournament run, averaging 17.5 points for a team with a similar profile to last year’s second-round squad.#arizona #florida #ncaa_tournament #iowa_state #march_madness

Former College Volleyball Star Kaylie Ray Opens Up on Viral Clash with Arizona Democrat Senator Kaylie Ray, a former college volleyball star, described her heated exchange with Arizona state senator Catherine Miranda as a moment of intense frustration. During a state education hearing, Ray was lobbying for a bill to protect girls’ and women’s sports in Arizona when Miranda questioned her competitiveness, referencing her physical appearance. Ray’s response, which included a sharp retort about her dedication to the cause, sparked widespread attention and became a focal point in the ongoing debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports. Miranda’s comments during the hearing were met with immediate backlash. The senator began by complimenting Ray’s physical condition, stating, “You look pretty healthy… You look very much in shape and strong.” Ray, however, found the remarks confusing and dismissive. She explained that Miranda’s focus on her appearance seemed to imply that her competitiveness was somehow tied to her physical stature, a notion Ray found illogical. “It was clear to me as she continued speaking that, for whatever reason, my physical appearance or stature should have some type of effect on how competitive I am with men,” Ray said. The confrontation escalated as Miranda attempted to argue that competition with men is a natural part of sports, citing her own experience playing with her brother in childhood. Miranda claimed she had competed against men in her youth and would have welcomed a male teammate, though she never used the term “transgender” or explicitly referenced male athletes. Ray, however, emphasized that her experiences with male competitors in high school were vastly different from the Division I NCAA level, where the physical and athletic disparities are more pronounced.#arizona #kaylie_ray #catherine_miranda #save_women_sports #san_jose_state_university

I-19 Northbound Lanes Reopen After Crash Near Sahuarita Northbound lanes on Interstate 19 in Arizona reopened on early Wednesday morning after being closed due to a crash near Duval Mine Road on Tuesday evening. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) confirmed the incident occurred at milepost 45 on March 10, prompting the closure of the northbound lanes. The lanes were reopened after midnight on March 11, according to ADOT officials. The crash led to temporary traffic disruptions, but the highway was fully restored by the early hours of Wednesday. ADOT advised drivers to check for real-time updates on highway conditions through its Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, via the az511 mobile app, or by calling 511. These resources provide current details on road closures, delays, and other travel-related alerts. The incident highlights the importance of monitoring traffic updates, especially during unexpected closures. While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, the quick response from authorities ensured minimal impact on commuters. Drivers are encouraged to exercise caution and stay informed about road conditions to avoid delays. The reopening of the lanes marks the end of a brief but significant disruption for travelers in the region. ADOT continues to monitor the area for any lingering issues and is committed to maintaining safe and efficient traffic flow. For those planning trips through the area, checking the latest updates before heading out is recommended to ensure a smooth journey.#arizona #duval_mine_road #arizona_department_of_transportation #interstate_19 #march_11

Reds' Hunter Greene to Have Surgery, Expected Out Until July Cincinnati Reds right-hander Hunter Greene, who was anticipated to be the team's dominant pitcher this season, will undergo an arthroscopic procedure on Wednesday to remove bone chips from his right elbow. The surgery is expected to keep him sidelined until July, according to the team. Greene, 26, left the Reds' spring training camp in Arizona earlier this week due to elbow stiffness and returned to Cincinnati for further evaluations, including imaging and consultations with specialists such as Dr. Neal ElAttrache. Greene finished the 2025 season with a 7-4 record and a 2.76 ERA, but his workload was limited to a career-low 19 starts and 107⅔ innings as the Reds secured their first playoff berth since 2020. His 99.5 mph average four-seam fastball velocity ranked first in the majors among pitchers who threw at least 1,250 pitches, and his 296 pitches of 100 mph or higher placed him second behind Mason Miller’s 422. To address injury concerns, Greene added more lower-body training to his offseason routine in hopes of avoiding setbacks after two previous stints on the injured list in 2025. This season marks his fifth year in the majors, during which he made his first NL All-Star appearance in 2024. That year, he posted a 9-5 record with a 2.75 ERA in 26 starts and recorded 169 strikeouts in 150 1/3 innings despite spending time on the injured list due to elbow soreness. The Reds have named left-hander Andrew Abbott as their Opening Day starter for the home game against the Boston Red Sox on March 26. This will be Abbott’s first Opening Day start, though the 26-year-old made his All-Star debut last season during his third year with the team. The Associated Press contributed to this report.#arizona #cincinnati_reds #hunter_greene #dr_neal_elattrache #andrew_abbott

Powerball Jackpot Hits $46 Million for Monday, March 9 Drawing The Powerball jackpot has climbed to $46 million for the March 9 drawing, with a cash value of $21.7 million. This marks the latest opportunity for players to claim the prize, which has been won nearly 200 times since the lottery’s launch in 1992. Currently, 48 U.S. states participate in the Powerball game, excluding Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah. The states with the highest number of winners include Indiana, Missouri, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The March 9 drawing follows a $251 million jackpot win in Arkansas on March 2, where the winner had the option to receive annuitized payments or a lump sum of $118 million. As of now, no one has claimed the current jackpot. The winning numbers for the March 9 drawing were 22, 23, 28, 36, 54, with the Powerball number 13. The Power Play multiplier was set at 3x. Despite the high stakes, no one secured the jackpot, the Match 5 + Power Play $2 million prize, or the Match 5 $1 million prize. The jackpot has since increased to $58 million, with a cash value of $26.8 million, pending the Wednesday, March 11 drawing. Players can participate in Powerball without being U.S. citizens or residents. Anyone visiting one of the 45 participating states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands can purchase tickets from licensed retailers, provided they meet the legal age requirement, typically 18 years old. The Powerball jackpot has reached record highs in the past, with the top 10 jackpots including a $758.7 million win in Massachusetts in 2017, a $1.817 billion prize in Arkansas in 2025, and a $2.040 billion payout in California in 2022. To play, participants select six numbers: five white balls from 1 to 69 and one red Powerball from 1 to 26.#california #arizona #arkansas #powerball #march_9

Nancy Guthrie's Missing Case Enters Fifth Week as Investigation Continues More than five weeks after the suspected abduction of Nancy Guthrie — the 84-year-old mother of "Today" co-host Savannah Guthrie — Arizona authorities have indicated that cadaver dogs used earlier in the investigation are no longer being deployed. Sheriff Chris Nanos stated that the search efforts remain ongoing, with no definitive progress reported. The family has continued to seek answers, with Savannah Guthrie and her siblings visiting their mother’s home to lay flowers and observe a tribute on March 2, as the investigation persists. The case has drawn significant public attention, with updates frequently shared by law enforcement and media outlets. Despite the passage of time, authorities have not confirmed any breakthroughs, though they have emphasized that the search is still active. The absence of cadaver dogs in recent efforts has raised questions about the current strategy, though officials have not provided specific reasons for the decision. The Guthrie family has remained steadfast in their efforts to locate Nancy, with Savannah expressing hope that new information will emerge. Meanwhile, the community has shown support, with local residents and fans of the "Today" show offering prayers and assistance. The case has also sparked discussions about the challenges of missing persons investigations, particularly in rural areas where resources may be limited. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities, including foul play, and have urged the public to remain vigilant. Updates on the case are expected to continue as investigators work to piece together the circumstances surrounding Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.#arizona #nancy_guthrie #today_show #savannah_guthrie #chris_nanos

States Are Pursuing an End to Twice-a-Year Clock Changes States across the United States are increasingly pushing for the elimination of the twice-a-year clock changes associated with daylight saving time. This movement has gained momentum as lawmakers and citizens debate the potential benefits and drawbacks of maintaining the practice. Proponents argue that ending the time changes would reduce confusion, improve public health by stabilizing sleep patterns, and save energy by extending daylight hours during the winter months. Opponents, however, contend that the practice has historical roots and that its removal could disrupt agricultural schedules and transportation systems. The push to abolish daylight saving time has been bolstered by recent studies suggesting that the biannual adjustments contribute to health issues such as increased heart attack risks and sleep disorders. Advocacy groups, including the Sunshine Protection Act coalition, have called for a permanent shift to standard time year-round, citing economic and health benefits. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation and other federal agencies have expressed concerns about the potential impact on energy consumption and infrastructure. In recent years, several states have introduced legislation to either permanently adopt daylight saving time or revert to standard time. For example, Hawaii and Arizona have long opted out of the practice, while Florida and Idaho have passed laws to remain on daylight saving time permanently. The debate has also sparked discussions about the role of federal versus state authority in regulating such a widespread practice. The issue remains contentious, with political and cultural divides shaping the conversation.#daylight_saving_time #arizona #sunshine_protection_act_coalition #us_department_of_transportation #hawaii

Miss Vickie’s pickle chips containing undeclared milk recalled in 6 states Frito-Lay has issued a voluntary recall for Miss Vickie’s Spicy Dill Pickle Potato Chips sold in six U.S. states due to the presence of undeclared milk, which could pose a risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions. The recall was announced on Wednesday following a consumer report to the company. The affected product is an 8-ounce bag of chips, including the jalapeño-flavored variant, and is linked to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s warning about potential health hazards. The recall applies to products sold in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas as early as January 15. Frito-Lay emphasized that the chips are safe for consumption unless a consumer has a dairy allergy or sensitivity to milk. The company urged individuals who purchased the recalled items to contact them directly for further instructions. The specific products can be identified by a "Guaranteed Fresh" date of April 21, manufacturing codes 38U301414 or 48U101514 on the front of the bag, and a UPC number of 0 28400 76177 2 on the back. The recall highlights the importance of ingredient transparency, particularly for individuals with food allergies, and underscores the role of regulatory agencies in ensuring product safety. Frito-Lay’s decision to initiate the recall voluntarily reflects the company’s responsibility to address potential risks promptly. While no other Miss Vickie’s products were affected, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges in maintaining allergen-free labeling in processed foods. Consumers are advised to check their pantry for the recalled items and contact the company for details on returns or replacements.#miss_vickie #frito_lay #us_food_drug_administration #arizona #texas

Alice Cooper’s Gubernatorial Runs and the “Wild Party” Campaign Alice Cooper, the iconic shock rocker, launched his political career in 1988 with a bold claim that Arizona needed a “heavy metal governor.” Speaking shortly after announcing his bid for the state’s governorship, Cooper quipped, “Arizona needs a good heavy metal governor. It’s a rock and roll state. They just don’t know it. It’s a very closet rock and roll state, and they’re ready to break out. They just need a guy like me in there to push them a little bit, that’s all.” He added, “I’m probably much more trusted than anybody there. These people know where I’m coming from. They look at me. They see my shows. They know it’s gonna be a bloodbath.” Cooper’s political campaigns were always unconventional, blending his rock persona with a self-proclaimed “Wild Party” movement. The idea originated from his 1972 song “Elected,” which topped the Billboard Hot 100. The track became a rallying cry for his political ambitions, leading to a series of mock and real campaigns over decades. His 1988 run followed the impeachment of Arizona Governor Evan Mecham, who had been removed from office for misconduct, including misuse of public funds and filing false statements. Cooper seized the opportunity, stating, “It never ceases to amaze me how these men are whitewashed as soon as they’re in the public eye, but it wouldn’t be the same with me. Everyone knows that I’m dirty old Alice from the start. If I became governor, the people would know what I’m like right from the beginning, which would make a change.” Cooper’s campaigns were marked by theatricality and provocative slogans. His recurring tagline, “A troubled man for troubled times,” reflected his self-image as a candid outsider. During his 1988 gubernatorial run, he declared, “I’m definitely a write-in candidate.#arizona #alice_cooper #evan_mecham #wild_party #mount_rushmore

Bracketology: No. 1 Seeds Duke, Arizona Face Battles but Have Margin for Error in NCAA Tournament Projection Virginia and Kansas each have significant opportunities on Saturday to improve their NCAA Tournament seeding as the final day of February brings critical matchups with projected No. 1 seeds. The Cavaliers, ranked No. 3 in CBS Sports Bracketology, travel to Durham, N.C., to face Duke, while the Jayhawks, at No. 4, head to Tucson to challenge Arizona. A victory for either team could dramatically elevate their resume metrics and open new possibilities for higher seeds. Virginia, with a 25-3 record (13-2 in the ACC), is thriving under first-year coach Ryan Odom. However, their seeding has been limited by a relatively weak nonconference schedule, which ranks 211th in NET strength. Despite their strong record, the Cavaliers lack marquee wins needed to compete for a No. 2 seed. Beating Duke, a projected No. 1 team, would address this gap and potentially elevate their profile. For Kansas, defeating Arizona on the road could position them to secure a No. 3 or even a No. 2 seed. As the highest-ranked No. 4 seed in Bracketology, a win against a 9.5-point underdog Arizona team would likely boost their standing. The Jayhawks’ success in this matchup could also reshape the tournament landscape, particularly if they secure a strong victory. Duke and Arizona, both holding No. 1 seeds, have room for error in maintaining their top rankings. A loss on Saturday would not immediately jeopardize their status, as both teams have built substantial leads in key metrics used by the NCAA Tournament selection committee. However, Duke faces a challenge from Michigan, which secured an upset win over Illinois on Friday. This victory keeps Michigan in the race for the top seed, and a loss to Virginia could push the Wolverines back into the No. 1 spot.#arizona #duke #ncaa_tournament #virginia #kansas