Good morning, Mesa.

Randy Miller, 70, and his son Chad Miller, 41, pleaded guilty last week to securities fraud and aggravated identity theft for a scheme that defrauded municipal bond investors for Legacy Park in East Mesa.

They provided forged documents to mislead investors about the park’s occupancy and revenue potential—sentencing will be set later with money judgments of $7.3 million and $4.8 million entered against them.

Arizona school districts have struggled with rising air conditioning and water costs as electricity bills jumped by up to 20% and water bills by 30%, which forced Dysart Unified to cut some bus services after a $180,000 increase in its electricity bill.

State funding has not kept pace, and with new SRP rate hikes coming later this year—districts may face deeper budget gaps—officials worry about meeting basic expense needs.

State Treasurer Kimberly Yee announced her bid for state superintendent of public instruction to challenge Tom Horne’s approach on voucher funding—she said his strict controls leave students behind and noted the race comes as lawmakers debate extending Proposition 123 funding and adding voucher protections.

On May 27, JoAnne Robbins submitted a box of petitions with over 5,000 signatures at Mesa City Hall to recall Councilwoman Julie Spilsbury from District 2 for her votes on a council raise, a move to purchase and renovate a hotel for an emergency homeless shelter, and other controversial issues—City Clerk will verify the 5,235 signatures within 10 days before the petition is sent to Maricopa County Recorder, and if valid, Spilsbury may face a recall election in March while she vows not to resign.

Engineering for Kids: To Infinity & Beyond – Astronomy and Avengers of Engineering Camp

All day — Jake's Unlimited — Pricing varies — Explore astronomy and unleash your STEM superpowers through hands-on engineering challenges at this fun summer camp.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

10:30-11:30 a.m. — The Summit at Sunland Springs Assisted Living — $25 drop-in donation — Connect entrepreneurs and business owners to build powerful relationships for growth.

Imaginarium: Winter Wonderland

6-10 p.m. — Imaginarium Mesa — All ages welcome — Immerse yourself in a magical walk-through experience at the enchanting Winter Wonderland event.

Saturday Night Arts Market

7 p.m. — Roosevelt Row Apartment Homes — Vendor registration required — Explore a lively open-air arts market showcasing creative small businesses.

Ninja Kidz Live: Infinite Possibilities

4-7 p.m. — Ikeda Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience an interactive show with the Ninja Kidz and exclusive VIP opportunities.

Engineering for Kids: Gravity and Motion with GraviTrax & Retro Game Design

Morning & Afternoon Sessions — Mavrix — Check for pricing — Kids experiment with gravity and design their own retro video games in this engaging camp.

Rivers of Nihil Concert

6-11 p.m. — Nile Theater — $72/ea — Experience an electrifying performance from Rivers of Nihil in a vibrant venue.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

10:30-11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — $25 drop-in fee for guests — Connect with entrepreneurs and influencers in a vibrant business community.

Alice in Wonderland

— Various times — Mesa Arts Center — Season tickets available — Experience the magic of live theater as young performers bring Alice's adventures to life.

Friday Night Country Swing

7:30 p.m. — Scootin' Boots Dance Hall — Cost varies — Enjoy lessons and open dancing in a lively country swing atmosphere.