Good morning, Mesa.

After New Year's fireworks caused many pets to run away, staff at Maricopa County Animal Care and Control are busy receiving lost animals.

They advise pet owners to post flyers (physical and digital) and visit the shelter to file lost-pet forms accurately.

A memorial honoring Emily Pike was removed Friday near Mesa Drive (McKellips Road), prompting tribal community members to promptly restore teddy bears, flowers, and garlands.

They will gather Saturday at 2 p.m. to bless the land and call on the city to consider a permanent tribute.

Arizona’s Department of Health Services released the state’s top 20 baby names for 2025.

Noah overtook Liam as the leading name for boys while Olivia remained top for girls (with names like Theodore and Luca gaining popularity).

Mesa Public Schools increased its asphalt and concrete services contract by $2 million on Dec.

11 with a 5-0 vote. The new $5 million deal will support needed infrastructure improvements as part of the District Master Asphalt Plan.

State Sen. John Kavanagh has proposed SB 1080 to let school districts partner with private groups to convert surplus school buildings into affordable housing for teachers and critical workers as enrollment declines lead to unused campuses, and no hearing date has been set.

HonorHealth finalized its acquisition of 11 Evernorth health centers in Mesa, Phoenix, Tempe, Gilbert, Goodyear, Scottsdale and San Tan Valley this month.

Some centers in Chandler, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale are closed, and former Evernorth patients can access their records via MyChart until March 31.

Josh Bierman Live Performance

4-8 p.m. — Pedal Haus Biergarten — Check venue for details — Experience the soulful sounds of AZ native singer-songwriter Josh Bierman and his dynamic band.

Arizona Balloon Classic

4-9 p.m. — Wild Horse Pass Stadium — Entrance fees may apply — Experience stunning hot air balloon displays and delicious food at this family-friendly event.

Copper State Beer Festival

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Riverview Park — Tickets required — Celebrate craft beverages and food with 100+ vendors and lively activities.

Mesa Business Networking Chapter

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Guests can attend up to two times for a fee — A structured networking event focused on fostering real relationships among local professionals.

Big Patio Party with Live Music

4-7 p.m. — Pedal Haus Biergarten — Free entry — Enjoy indie pop tunes from People Who Could Fly while relaxing on a spacious patio.

January 2026 Winter Event

All Day — Bell Bank Park — Competitive event — Top teams compete in a high-level national environment during winter.