The Daily Chirp

A new executive order opening federal lands to expanded logging has put Cochise County’s Sky Islands, including the Huachuca and Chiricahua mountains, under threat. Conservationists warn of damage to sensitive ecosystems and tourism, while supporters argue it could revive timber jobs and reduce wildfire risks. We explore what’s at stake for local communities, businesses, and the future ...

A decades-old trade agreement that shaped how Mexican tomatoes reach U.S. grocery stores is on the chopping block. If it ends, importers in Nogales could face steep tariffs, and shoppers might see higher prices. We look at what’s driving the decision, who’s pushing back, and what it means for Arizona’s economy.

Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription...

After more than six years on the Sierra Vista City Council, William Benning is stepping down to move closer to his daughter and newborn granddaughter in Kansas. In this episode, we look back at his time in office, from championing parks and public safety to navigating tough budget challenges, and hear why he believes now is the right time to go.

Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/f...

A new countersuit from the State of Arizona and Auditor General Lindsey Perry blames Santa Cruz County for systemic failures that allowed a $38 million embezzlement to go undetected for a decade. The filing names 13 current and former officials and deepens the legal fallout surrounding former treasurer Elizabeth Gutfahr.

Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription_service...

Over the weekend, protesters lined Highway 92 outside the Sierra Vista Mall in the city’s second major anti-Trump demonstration this month. Participants voiced concerns about veterans’ benefits, LGBTQ+ rights, vaccine misinformation, and more, joining a national wave of over 700 coordinated protests. The peaceful rally drew a mix of returning and first-time demonstrators, reflecting grow...

A proposed graffiti ordinance in Willcox sparks a passionate debate over property rights and city enforcement. While officials say the new rules would clarify how graffiti is handled, residents push back, raising concerns about fairness, accountability, and trust in local government. The city council has tabled the ordinance for now, giving staff time to revise the language.

Support the show: https:/...

In Cochise County, all five justices of the peace, along with their pro tem stand-ins, have recused themselves from a misdemeanor case involving Paul Correa, the county’s Chief Civil Deputy County Attorney. The rare move stems from Correa’s close ties to the courts and raises questions about how the case will proceed. We break down what led to the citation, why the case was reassigned to...

In this episode, we cover a disturbing animal cruelty case out of Cochise County, where Andrew M. Anderson has pleaded guilty to intentionally killing his girlfriend’s dog, Luke. The case has sparked community outrage and renewed calls for tougher penalties. With sentencing set for June, animal advocates are urging the judge to impose the maximum jail time.

Support the show: https://www.myheral...

A missing phone call from a 2021 Cochise County court hearing has sparked a four-year legal fight over public records and judicial transparency. Now, the Arizona Court of Appeals will decide when the clock starts on a records request—and whether the case gets a second chance.

Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription_services/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privac...

A young photographer is changing how we see the U.S.-Mexico border — not through headlines, but through candid images and community stories. In this episode, we meet Nicholas Matthews, the creative mind behind Río Fronteras, and explore how his work blends activism, art, and a deep connection to the borderlands.

Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription_ser...

In this episode, we explore Arizona’s new push to map and manage its underground water supply. We’ll look at State Representative Gail Griffin’s proposals targeting rural areas—like the Willcox basin—to collect better data, share costs on deep wells, and offer grants for more efficient water use.

Support the show: https://www.myheraldreview.com/site/forms/subscription_se...

In this episode, we explore Cochise County’s lawsuit against the Ramsey Canyon Inn, where loud weddings, late-night parties, and alleged permit violations have sparked tension in an otherwise peaceful, nature-focused community. Neighbors are fed up with noise and overcrowded roads, officials warn of fire hazards and septic issues, and the Inn’s owners are fighting back—setting the ...

After the passing of longtime Congressman Raul Grijalva, Arizona’s District 7 is wide open—and nearly 30 candidates want the job. In this episode, we take a closer look at the crowded field, the key dates for the upcoming special elections, and why a small corner of Cochise County could play a big role in deciding who wins.

Support the show: http...

A cold case from 2003 is finally closed, thanks to DNA pulled from a discarded cigarette. The murder of Tamara Mattson in Washington state went unsolved for nearly two decades—until investigators linked the evidence to Carl Schlobom, already serving a life sentence in Sierra Vista, Arizona for a separate 2005 killing. This episode unpacks how two violent crimes, years and states apart, were ...

Some parents in Sierra Vista say students at Buena High School are being unfairly targeted in the school’s efforts to crack down on drugs. Nicole Velasquez says her son, Nicholas Reynoso, has been searched repeatedly—despite no drugs ever being found. She believes Hispanic students are being singled out and is now speaking out about what she sees as harassment, not deterrence.

Support th...