Samantha Rea

I met with Steven Blackwell at the Desert Botanical Garden to learn about their conservation efforts for the critically imperiled Canelo Hills Ladies' Tresses Orchid, endemic to Southern Arizona. Did you know that there are orchid plants native to Arizona? Stay tuned for more.

Learning about a lot of different conservation efforts in Arizona lately, I’m glad to see it!

Our digital reporter Anna Ehrick thought up this article idea about two months ago. I'm glad to see it come to fruition; this is an incredibly interesting story. Check it out!

I am always amazed by the size of bald eagles. Have you seen one in person? Let Cronkite News know!

Today I spoke with Conservation Collections Manager Steven Blackwell about the Desert Botanical Garden’s efforts to propagate a rare, endangered orchid native to Southern AZ. Recently, they celebrated a significant achievement. The first of the propagated orchids to flower!

Tomorrow I’m heading to Globe, AZ for the grand opening celebration of the Hill Street School Apartments. The Hill Street School building is over 100 years old! Now, it’s been repurposed into mixed-income apartments designed to serve people 55+ years old.

This story details some of the programs Arizona stands to lose if the IMLS can no longer provide grant funding to public museums and libraries. Do you know how this impacts you? I spoke to many interesting people to find out. Give it a read!

I had the pleasure of meeting with @Polaris_Academy to discuss their achievements and tour the school. The staff is incredible, kind, and passionate. Give it a read! Polaris Academy is the first Arizona school to earn Certified Autism Center designation: cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2025/04/02/pol…

April Fools' Day! Not everyone gets the joke. Or, if you're like me, you may have forgotten about today. Use reasonable discretion and be aware of misinformation.

We went to @dbgphx and spoke with Chief Science Officer Kimberly McCue about the garden’s efforts to preserve at-risk pollinators. Think of the impact this has on agriculture and the fruits & veggies on your plate. This DBG program is made possible through IMLS funding.

President Trump's executive order to gut several small agencies has left the future unclear for many Arizona museums and libraries that receive program funding from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

Morning meetings in @cronkitenews! What current events do you want to see coverage on?

I’ve read cuts are also affecting medical research. I wonder how we will see that affect Banner Health and Mayo Clinic here in Phx.

Cronkite News covers politics too! Our D.C. office will keep you updated and informed.

Today we discussed SB1297 with the Pinewood Fire Department in Munds Park, AZ. I’m very grateful for their time and the tour! Such a great crew! Article coming soon.

Gas in my area is $3.65 right now. My wallet is hurting! What is it like in your area?

Romance Scams aren't the only thing to look out for!

Do you fly often? Look for this addition next time you’re in Phx Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 3! Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport showcases Arizona’s cultural mix: cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2025/02/20/pho…

Today, I'm researching the state of black-owned businesses in Phoenix, AZ, and the support systems or resources available to them. Do you know someone who might be a powerful voice on this topic? Send me their way!

Keep an eye out for my digital article coming out Thursday. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is facilitating cultural awareness and education with the recently debuted Culture Corner in Terminal 3.