Good morning, Mesa.

A Sprouts Farmers Market is planned for a commercial center at the northeast corner of Alma School Road and Southern Avenue in Mesa—officials discussed its look and landscaping during the Design Review Board meeting on Sept.

9 at the 15.8-acre site at 1110 W. Southern Ave.

The Arizona Museum of Natural History in Mesa will host the Rock on the Rock after-hours fundraiser on Saturday, Sept.

27 — guests will enjoy live music, dancing, signature cocktails and mocktails along with special museum programs. Ticket prices are $100 in advance and $125 at the door, with add-on opportunities like a silent auction, Dino Heads or Tails game and raffle to support new exhibits and education efforts.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported inflation hit 2.9% in August and that Arizona’s minimum wage, tied to inflation under a 2016 law, will jump 45 cents in January—pushing it above $15 an hour in 2026 and affecting about 230,000 Arizonans.

Cuts to federal food programs will force Arizona to cover more SNAP costs starting in 2028—projected to reach up to $185 million in 2029—and local food banks are preparing for increased demand as nearly 700,000 people a month already seek help if fewer qualify for federal aid.

Teachers in Deer Valley have paid for supplies with their own money or wish lists while ESA parents used tax dollars to buy luxury items like diamond rings, appliances, and iPhones, which made Superintendent Curtis Finch warn that weak rules let funds be misused — he said the state must rein in the program to restore accountability.

Former City Manager Chris Brady earned $350,000.04 in annual salary for 2025 and is Mesa’s highest paid employee, based on recent public records.

Current City Manager Scott Butler earned $345,000.24 and his contract provides 20 vacation hours per month and paid sick leave at half his hourly rate—details shown in public records.

The Mesa City Council will recommend a new series 10 beer and wine store license for Gin’s Smoke Shop at a meeting at 5:45 p.m. Monday, Sept.

22 at 20 E. Main St.—the recommendation is for Memushaj LLC at 1927 N. Gilbert Road Suite No. 2 with Vergjin Memushaj as the agent.

Gov. Katie Hobbs issued an executive order Thursday to let pharmacists give updated COVID-19 vaccines to all Arizonans without a prescription.

The order directs the Department of Health Services to issue a standing order (clarifying guidance for pharmacists and urging insurers to cover vaccine costs) as officials expect more details starting in October.

Sunday Evening Recital: Amy & Alina Dampt

6:30-7:00 p.m. — Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors' Center — Free entry — Enjoy an inspired performance of beautiful sacred music by flutist and harpist duo Amy and Alina Dampt.

All-Star Sports for Toddlers

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM — Eagles Community Center — $14 Mesa resident / $16 Non-resident — A fun, non-competitive introduction to sports for toddlers aged 2-6.

Mesa Arizona Business Networking

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

Country & Latin Dance Party

4-7 p.m. — Creative Dance Collective — $20 CLASS + PARTY | $10 PARTY ONLY — Dance the afternoon away with social favorites like Salsa, Two-step, and more.

Book Signing with Emily Chavez

6:30-8 p.m. — Half Price Books — Ticket includes book purchase — Meet Crochet or Cry creator Emily Chavez and get your copy of Spooky Tapestry Crochet signed.

Mesa Networking Event

11:30 a.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — $25 drop-in donation after two visits — A vibrant community gathering for entrepreneurs and influencers to forge impactful connections.

Prayers Concert

5-8 p.m. — The Rosetta Room — Tickets available via Ticketmaster — Experience an evening of energetic music with Prayers.

Fall Fest Presented By PS I Love AZ

10 AM – 4 PM — Arizona Athletic Grounds — Entrance fee with parking options — Kick off the fall season with over 150 local vendors and live entertainment.

Sunday Evening Recital with Jessica Taylor and Daughters

6:30-7:00 p.m. — Mesa Arizona Temple Visitors' Center — Free entry — Enjoy uplifting gospel music performed by the talented Taylor family.

Mesa Networking Event

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — The HUB Grill and Bar — $25 drop-in fee after two visits — A community gathering for entrepreneurs, business owners, and influencers seeking to expand their networks and grow their businesses.