Once upon a time, downtown Mesa was drenched in the glow of neon lights. Businesses like motels, diners and cocktail lounges buzzed with vibrant color as their illuminated signs beckoned the public.

Chris Bovey's new shop on Garland Avenue isn't technically open on Tuesday, but it's too enjoyably warm and sunny on a late September afternoon to keep the roll-up door along the sidewalk closed.

Vintage neon signs have become a rare and treasured thing in the Valley. In fact, local preservationists estimate there are only around three dozen old-school illuminated displays still in operation ...