Good morning, Mesa.

On Friday, March 6, instrumental music students from about a dozen public schools will enjoy a 65-piece orchestra at Mesa High School that plays tunes from movies, cartoons & video games and awards thousands of dollars to boost Title I music programs.

Chase Padgett's theatrical concert 6 Guitars is set for 7 p.m. March 4 at the Virginia G.

Piper Repertory Theater at Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. The show will feature six original characters - blues, jazz, rock, classical, folk and country, blending music with storytelling.

Ali Schorman, a ceramic artist at the Mesa Arts Center, rediscovered her love for ceramics while teaching kids (ages 10 to 12) and turning clay into textured art.

Her work is inspired by geometric patterns and personal family memories.

ATSU and its Department of Diversity and Inclusion will host its annual diversity festival on Wednesday, March 5 at 5850 E.

Still Circle from 4-7 p.m. in Mesa. The family-friendly event will include live performances, local vendors, food trucks, and welcoming spaces to celebrate culture and community.

Nearly 380,000 Arizonans lost SNAP benefits since July after Congress tightened eligibility with H.R.1 (eliminating work exemptions for veterans and former foster youth), DES said.

Gov. Hobbs approved $7.5 million in December to boost staffing and technology for improved benefit determinations.

A longtime reporter examined Kari Lake's changing political plans after her statewide loss, noting her push to reshape USAGM operations and her attempt to meet the president about a future run.

The report details a streak of moves that have stirred debate about her next steps.

Mortgage rates have dropped below 6% with the 30-year fixed rate reaching 5.98% as reported on Feb.

26. Mesa homeowners and buyers may see new opportunities in a tight housing market—though experts warn that improvements may be gradual.

Big Patio Party Featuring People Who Could Fly

4-7 p.m. — Pedal Haus Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy live indie pop tunes in a spacious brewery setting with a local favorite band.

World Ballet Company - Swan Lake

6-9 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — $61.50 - $146.50 — Experience the enchanting Swan Lake with a live orchestra and stunning performances by professional dancers.

The Mikado by NY Gilbert & Sullivan Players

7:30 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — Check event page for costs — Delight in a critically acclaimed production featuring beloved G&S characters.

iNET Mesa Chapter Networking Event

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Guests can attend up to two meetings for free — Build meaningful business relationships in a structured networking environment.

Lil Tony Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Nile Theater — Tickets available — Experience the captivating sounds of Lil Tony in a lively setting.

Gabriel Rutledge Comedy Show

7:30 p.m. — Piper Repertory Theater — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of laughs with award-winning comedian Gabriel Rutledge.

The U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus Concert

3:00 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — Free entry — Experience a dynamic performance from the U.S. Army's prestigious band and chorus featuring a wide array of musical styles.

Gogol Bordello Concert

7:30-9:00 PM — Nile Theater — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the vibrant energy of Gogol Bordello, the international punk band led by Eugene Hütz.

An Evening With The Petersens

7:30 p.m. — Virginia G. Piper Repertory Theater — $35.50 - $66.50 — Experience heartwarming Americana music with The Petersens' family-focused performance filled with lighthearted comedy.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — $25 drop-in fee for guests — Engage with local entrepreneurs and build lasting professional relationships.