Good morning, Mesa.

After nearly 50 years in the salon, local hairstylist David Samora skipped retirement to volunteer at Rosalie's Place; he donates his equipment and cuts hair for 30–40 residents (two days each month) to help rebuild community ties.

The Arizona Animal Welfare League is waiving dog adoption fees today at its main shelter at 25 N.

40th Street to clear space for incoming rural rescues; all dogs qualify (even puppies).

The Protect Education campaign has raised $4.6 million so far to support a November ballot measure for private school voucher reforms that would recover unspent funds and impose a $150,000 income cap (mostly backed by the National Education Association) amid local signature drives.

NAU professor Siyu Pan is studying the cost impacts of wildfires on water systems, examining treatment expenses (including pollution from sediments, smoke, and soot) in a U.S. Forest Service partnership.

APS warned that extreme winds and dry terrain may trigger 12-to-24-hour power shutoffs in select areas as wildfire risk stays high.

The U.S. reclassified medical marijuana as a Schedule III substance on Thursday, Apr.

23 — easing research barriers and lowering tax burdens for Mesa cannabis businesses — while recreational use remains unchanged.

Maricopa County health officials confirmed 4 new measles cases this week (the highest weekly count so far) and warned that exposures may have occurred at a youth basketball game in Mesa and public sites in Queen Creek.

A new case was also reported in neighboring Pinal County.

Hikers can enjoy a challenging six-mile round-trip Siphon Draw Trail hike to the Flatiron summit at Lost Dutchman State Park today with 360-degree Phoenix views.

Experts warn of a 2,700-foot elevation gain and Class 3 scramble (alternative bypass available) and recommend extra water and leaving pets at home.

Blippi Live Tour

2-5 p.m. — Arizona Financial Theatre — Varies by seating — Experience the unforgettable production of Blippi Live for the whole family.

Tommy Emmanuel CGP: Living In The Light Tour 2026

7-9 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — Ticketed event — Experience the musical journey of Tommy Emmanuel, a master guitarist and entertainer.

Bingo Night

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Encore at Eastmark HOA & Clubhouse — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of bingo with the community.

Three Bad Jacks Live in Mesa

6-9 p.m. — The Rosetta Room — Cost info unavailable — Enjoy a thrilling night of rockabilly mayhem with Elvis and Three Bad Jacks.

Arizona Author Book Festival

10 AM - 3 PM — Warehouse215 — Free entry — Enjoy a day of author talks, giveaways, and book signings for all ages.

Manic Hispanic Concert

6-10 p.m. — The Rosetta Room — Tickets start at $54 — Experience the unforgettable live performance of Manic Hispanic in Mesa.

Mesa Business Networking Event

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Network with local entrepreneurs — Join a vibrant community for business owners and influencers.

Riverdance 30 | The New Generation

— Fri, May 8 – Sun, May 10 — Ikeda Theater — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the spectacular fusion of Irish dance and music in this celebration of the beloved performance.

Amor Eterno - A Mother's Day Mariachi Concert

7 p.m. — Piper Repertory Theater — $59.50-$79.50 — Celebrate Mother's Day with an unforgettable mariachi concert filled with vibrant music and captivating dance.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — $25 for drop-ins after two visits — Connect with entrepreneurs and business owners in a structured networking environment focused on building lasting relationships.