Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 9th of May.
Good morning, Mesa.
Since 2007, Mesa has partnered with groups—Mesa Chamber Commerce, Resurrection Street Ministry and United Food Bank—to launch its annual hydration donation campaign, which kicked off on May 8th and is gathering donations to help those in need.
Mesa Animal Control and city officials remind residents to protect pets from the rising triple digit heat by following recommended safety tips.
They advise keeping pets out of hot vehicles and pools, ensuring they have water, shade and proper identification—reporting any distress without delay.
Loved ones of road-rage shooting victim Christopher Pelkey showed an AI video of his voice at a Maricopa County sentencing hearing for Gabriel Paul Horcasitas, who was convicted of manslaughter in 2021 and is now serving over 10 years in prison—defense attorney Jason Lamm said he did not expect its use and legal experts say it may not let the victim truly speak for himself.
Contractors in Mesa are facing delays in installing new AC systems as a nationwide shortage of the eco-friendly refrigerant R-454B—caused by bottling issues—disrupts supply chains ahead of the hot summer.
Local businesses expect the supply to stabilize later this summer but warn that costs may rise while homeowners and builders seek alternatives.
Mesa will open its new 64-room shelter, Sunaire, near Main Street and Power Road next March to lower the Off the Streets Program cost from $3.1 million to $2.5 million annually; some council members are concerned that limiting housing to seniors, domestic violence victims, and families may leave single women without help—although officials say other programs will serve those in need.
A federal judge in Phoenix will rule by May 14 on whether to pause the Oak Flat copper mining project requested by Apache Stronghold, as Resolution Copper plans to start mining on June 16—while the nonprofit awaits a Supreme Court decision on its petition in July.
After months of delays, Arizona’s Efficiency Arizona program will launch this month to offer households rebates on energy efficient upgrades such as heat pumps and electric stoves.
The state will support about 20,000 households (with income limits determining rebate coverage) as applications open within the next two weeks.
On April 21, Coach Mo collapsed during practice in Mesa when a severe headache led to a brain bleed and small strokes, and he was airlifted to Chandler Regional Hospital—he is now back on the court and working through physical therapy—with the help of a walker.
This recovery has been driven by his determination to return to coaching his players.
Big Patio Party with Collin Freestone
2-5 p.m. — Pedal Haus Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy live reggae music in a spacious brewery setting in downtown Mesa.
Diana Krall Concert
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — Last-minute tickets available — Experience a captivating evening with jazz singer Diana Krall in Mesa, AZ.
The Story of the Phoenix East Valley Partnership
7-8 p.m. — Mesa Arts Center — Free entry — Discover how the Phoenix East Valley Partnership has shaped the region for over 40 years.
Rolling Quartz Concert
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Nile Theater — Tickets available — Experience the energetic sounds of the Korean rock girl band ROLLING QUARTZ on their U.S. tour.
Big Patio Party: Live Music with KAILIN Kentigian Duo
2-5 p.m. — Pedal Haus Brewery — Free entry — Enjoy a spacious brewery atmosphere while listening to live music from the KAILIN Kentigian Duo.
Sunday Evening Recital Featuring Britney Freeman
6:30-7:00 p.m. — Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors' Center — Free entry — Enjoy a lovely evening of vocal performance by Britney Freeman.
AGG 2025 Conference
7 AM – 1 PM — Delta Hotels Phoenix Mesa — Early Bird rates available — Engage in a week of education, excellence, and community in sunny Mesa, Arizona.
Public Serpents: Live Music by TOB
7-8:30 p.m. — The Underground — Free entry — Enjoy a dynamic blend of punk, grunge, reggae, ska, rock, and hip-hop from Phoenix's own Thomas O'Brien.
Mesa Arts Chamber Concerts: Chamber Strings
5:30-9:30 p.m. — Mesa Arts Center — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening of curated chamber music performed by small ensembles.
Deafheaven Concert
6-11 p.m. — Nile Theater — $100/ea — Catch Deafheaven live in Mesa for an unforgettable night of music.
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