Good morning, Mesa.

The Arizona Builders Alliance has launched its back-to-school backpack drive to raise $50K by June 30 and provide school supplies to children throughout Arizona using donations from partners including RISE Services in Mesa.

Supplies will be delivered at special events on July 16 and August 4.

St. Mary’s Food Bank, Arizona’s largest, said it is about 1M pounds short of food due to federal funding cuts made in March + the shortage may force the bank to pack fewer items in its boxes while it braces for more demand if a Senate bill limits SNAP eligibility.

Starbucks baristas at the Val Vista and Southern locations in Mesa recently voted to join Starbucks Workers United to seek better wages, fair scheduling, and workplace protections.

Shania Felix said the vote marks a key step in their plan to gain a stronger voice at work, joining over 590 unionized locations nationwide—adding to a growing national movement.

Mesa Police Department released body camera video that shows Emily Pike, a 13-year-old from a Valley group home run by Sacred Journey Inc. who was reported missing several times and found dead weeks later, saying she wanted to see her mom instead of returning to the home—footage from September 2023 and January 27 at 8:30 p.m. offers new details as investigations led by the Gila County Sheriff's Office and other agencies continue.

Scott J. Butler was sworn in as Mesa city manager on June 2 when Mayor Mark Freeman administered the oath, succeeding Chris Brady who retired May 31 after 19 years of service.

In his first address, Butler outlined a plan to boost fiscal responsibility and attract high-wage jobs—promising that residents will get efficient services.

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen said during talks on June 3 that adding a desalination plant in California—helping lower water use—could secure federal backing and a larger water allocation for Arizona in ongoing Colorado River negotiations.

He also noted that lining state canals to reduce evaporation is part of efforts to strengthen the state’s water future.

Mesa police began a 20-month renovation of headquarters on Monday — replacing plumbing, electricity and other infrastructure to improve space efficiency, security and the public lobby.

Police Chief Ken Cost, who will retire this month, thanked elected officials and citizens for their support.

The Arizona Department of Agriculture said another commercial egg farm in Maricopa County tested positive for bird flu and placed it under quarantine.

The agency noted that eggs made after the birds got sick did not go to food and no people got sick.

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.

Engineering for Kids: Earth Science Detectives Camp

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — UPTOWN JUNGLE FUN PARK — Variable pricing — Explore robotics and podcasting in a fun, interactive camp for kids aged 8-14.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

10:30-11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Free entry — A gathering for entrepreneurs, business owners, and influencers to connect and collaborate.