Good morning, Mesa.

A new report shows Arizona’s pedestrian fatality rate remained the second-highest in the nation last year with 3.6 deaths per 100,000 residents — a modest increase of two fatalities from the previous year.

The report calls for better pedestrian infrastructure and safer vehicle designs to help reverse this trend.

Mesa Police are seeking help to locate 13-year-old Blaze Morales who was last seen at 4 p.m. July 14 near Gilbert Road and Southern Avenue wearing a black sweatshirt with THRASHER on it, a black baseball hat and white Nike shoes, and anyone with information should call Mesa police at 480-644-2211.

Lloyd Hopkins II presented his Million Dollar Teacher Project to the State Board of Education last month to help teachers receive more recognition, pay, and support amid a statewide teacher shortage.

The nonprofit has reached over 17,000 educators and plans to expand its programs in Arizona—urging communities to join efforts toward stronger teacher retention.

The Maricopa County Community College District reported record enrollment growth heading into fall as enrollment is up 17.6% from last year, with over 6,700 students now in its new bachelor's degree programs—helping keep tuition costs low by saving students up to $10,000 per year.

The district accepts 100% of applicants and builds its curriculum in line with local job growth.

Maricopa County data shows that manufactured homes, which make up 5% of housing, accounted for 25% of indoor heat-related deaths last year because many older units lack proper insulation and low-income residents have difficulty paying for upgrades—experts say that expanding energy assistance could lower the risk. Lawmakers recently allowed changes to air conditioner rules to help, but residents still face high costs to keep their homes cool in extreme heat.

Anthropologist Nina Jablonski explained that human skin developed to protect against the sun and later people began using clothes and shade as summers became longer—she noted that Mesa residents may need to adjust their sun protection as extreme heat increases.

Her discussion connects ancient evolution with modern changes in how we stay safe in the sun.

Imaginarium Mesa: Winter Wonderland

6-10 p.m. — Imaginarium Mesa — Ticket info unavailable — Immerse yourself in a magical light festival experience for all ages.

Weekly Coffee Chat at Panera

8 a.m. — Panera Bread — Free entry — Engage in casual conversations over coffee with the local community.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Free entry — Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, and influencers in the heart of Mesa.

Jason Russell: Comedy at The Cellar

6 PM – 11 PM — The Cellar at 12West Brewing — 21+ only, 2 item minimum — Experience high-energy comedy with master impressionist Jason Russell over three unforgettable nights.

Justin Foster Live at JP’s Comedy Club

7-9 p.m. — JP’s Comedy Club — Ticket details vary — Experience the raw and ridiculous humor of Justin Foster as he shares personal stories that turn chaos into comedy.

Family Paint Party

5-7 p.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — Cost varies — Unleash creativity at this family-friendly paint night for all ages.

Botzee Robotics & Aerospace Engineering Flight Camp

Half-day or full-week options — UPTOWN JUNGLE FUN PARK — Pricing details available — Explore drone technology and rocket science through hands-on activities and Minecraft challenges.

Joanna Ruth Meyer: While the Dark Remains

7-9 p.m. — Changing Hands Bookstore — Free entry — Explore the depths of magic and revenge in debut adult fantasy 'While the Dark Remains' with author Joanna Ruth Meyer.

Mesa Business Networking Event

10:30-11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — $25 drop-in fee — Connect with local entrepreneurs and influencers to accelerate your business growth.

Incite Live in Concert

6-7:30 p.m. — The Rosetta Room — Tickets starting at $88 — Incite promises an unforgettable evening of live music in the heart of Mesa.