Ex-Chandler Firefighter Convicted of Setting Ex-Girlfriend's Home Ablaze

Former Chandler firefighter, Eric Donald Jones, has been sentenced to 10½ years in prison for setting his ex-girlfriend's house on fire in 2021. He was found guilty of arson, endangerment, misconduct involving weapons, criminal damage, and assault.

Jones poured gasoline on the house and used a Molotov cocktail to start the fire after assaulting his ex-girlfriend at a nearby business.

The fire caused extensive damage, and Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell expressed concern that Jones, a former public servant, had betrayed the community's trust.

Gilbert Community Comes Together to Welcome Wounded Iraq War Veteran with New Home

The Town of Gilbert, celebrated the arrival of Iraq War veteran Staff Sgt. Brent Bretz, a double amputee, who received the keys to his new wheelchair-accessible home. The community, along with Helping A Hero, Capital One, Bass Pro Shops, and Lennar Homes, came together to provide Bretz with a specially designed home.

Bretz played a significant role in designing the home to suit his needs, including widened doorways, zero-drop thresholds, and a wheelchair-accessible shower. Gilbert became his chosen location due to family connections and its family-friendly environment.

His military journey began in 2000 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army, driven by his desire to provide for his daughter. However, in 2004, while hauling supplies in Mosul, Iraq, an improvised explosive device (IED) severely injured him. The explosion resulted in the loss of both his legs below the knee and numerous other injuries, including traumatic brain injury and burns.

Following years of surgeries and rehabilitation, Bretz retired from the military in 2007. Since then, he has been active in various veteran nonprofit organizations, working towards helping fellow veterans.

Now, with his new home, Bretz can enjoy increased mobility and ease in daily activities, marking a heartwarming chapter in his remarkable journey.

Gilbert Chooses New Site for Vaughn Basin, Enhancing Heritage District Vision

Gilbert has changed its plans for a downtown retention basin, opting to spend over $18 million on an 18-acre parcel south of the Union Pacific Railroad tracks for the Vaughn Basin.

The decision came after previously considering relocating the basin to town-owned land. Councilman Chuck Bongiovanni mentioned that this new location better aligns with the Heritage District's future plans. The purchase price may decrease if the town chooses to retain stormwater from the seller's adjoining site.

The move will help Gilbert expand the basin's capacity, addressing stormwater runoff concerns for downtown. The project is part of the Vaughn Ventilator initiative, funded by a transportation bond approved by voters in 2021.

Do You Own a Business that Serves the Gilbert? We Want to Feature You!

Hey Gilbert Neighbors! 
🌻 We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you're a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! "Gilbert Thrive" is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town. Let's collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. Send us a message, and let's celebrate the spirit of Gilbert together!

👇Select an option below:

✅ Own a local Business? Apply to be featured

❤ Love a local business? Click to Nominate them

Hale Centre Theatre: A Legacy of Entertainment in Gilbert

In the heart of Gilbert, the Hale Centre Theatre stands as a testament to the enduring love for the performing arts. Established in 2003, this theatre is not just a cultural hub but a family legacy rooted in a rich history.

A Theatre Dream Born in 1947

The Hale Centre Theatre story begins with Ruth and Nathan Hale. In 1947, their dream of pursuing careers as actors led them to open their very own theatre. Their inaugural performance saw an audience of only six, but this small theatre soon began to flourish.

Passing the Torch Through Generations

The Hale Centre Theatre's journey has spanned generations. It remains the longest continuously running, privately owned and operated theatre company in the United States. From its humble beginnings, this theatre has grown in popularity, becoming a beloved institution.

David Hale Dietlein's Journey

David Hale Dietlein, a key figure in the theatre's current success, was captivated by the stage at a young age. Born into a theatre-owning family, Dave's entrepreneurial spirit shone early. From selling "candy" radishes to starting his own DJ business as "The Disco King," Dave was always destined for showbiz.

A Theatre Entrepreneur's Ascent

After college, Dave returned to the theatre world, working for his father. His hard work paid off, and he eventually co-owned the family business. But Dave dreamed of owning his theatre. Encouraged by Gilbert's welcoming atmosphere and family-oriented values, he ventured into the Arizona theatre scene.

Hale Centre Theatre - Arizona is Born

Dave's dream came true with the birth of Hale Centre Theatre - Arizona. This theatre has become a beacon for patrons seeking top-quality productions and memorable experiences. Talented actors bring plays and musicals to life, while the dedicated staff ensures every visit is special.

A Theatre for the Community

Dave and his wife Corrin have continued the legacy, offering an intimate and friendly atmosphere where patrons feel at home. The Hale Centre Theatre's commitment to fun and affordable entertainment resonates with audiences, making it a cherished part of Gilbert's cultural landscape.

A Theatre with Heart and History

With its storied past and unwavering commitment to the arts, the Hale Centre Theatre stands as a testament to the power of dreams and the enduring love for theatre. Today, audiences are welcomed not just to a theatre but to Dave Dietlein's very own stage, where the magic of live performances continues to captivate hearts.

Join the Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert, and become part of the legacy of entertainment that has enchanted audiences for generations.

Now Playing: Something’s Afoot (Murder Mystery Musical)

Runs Through October 7, 2023

Book, Music and Lyrics by James McDonald, David Vos and Robert Gerlach
Additonal Music by Ed Linderman
Directed by Cambrian James
Music Directed by Dr. Cathy Hauan
Choreographed by Cambrian James
Run Time: approximately 2 hours

A zany murder-mystery musical farce takes a satirical poke at the works of Agatha Christie. Ten people are stranded in an isolated house during a raging thunderstorm. One by one they're picked off by cleverly fiendish devices. As the bodies pile up in the library, the survivors frantically race to uncover the identity and motivation of the cunning culprit!

BUY TICKETS

Woman Killed in Phoenix Shooting, Suspect Commits Suicide During Manhunt

During a Phoenix police investigation into the homicide of a 31-year-old woman, a man committed suicide near 21st and Glenrosa avenues. The incident began with a shooting around 9 p.m. near 900 West Alta Vista Road, where a man and woman were shot.

The woman, Monica Ornelas, died at the hospital, while the man survived. Phoenix homicide detectives identified a suspect, Juan Solorio-Menera, 39. As the investigation continued, Solorio-Menera was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at a house near 21st Avenue and Glenrosa Avenue.

Ongoing Events

• Harvest in the Heritage District (Themed Events to Explore Downtown Gilbert)
  Sep 22 to Nov 5

• Vertuccio Farms Fall Festival
  September 29th-October 29th

Upcoming Events

• Carvin Jones @ Florigino’s
  October 2, 6pm-9pm

• Phoenix Veterans Job Fair @ DoubleTree by Hilton Phoenix-Gilbert
  October 4, 11am-1pm

• National Cinnamon Roll Day - BOGO at Cinnaholic
  October 4, 12pm-4pm

• Pumpkin & Chili Party @ Schnepf Farms
  October 5 - October 29

• Kids Club @ SanTan Village
  October 6, 2023, 10am

• Gilbert Cinemas: Super Mario Bros @ Page Park
  October 6, 6:30pm

• Free Magic Show @ Gilbert Regional Park
  October 6, 6:30pm-8pm

• Family Kindness Event: Making Soft Toys for Fostered Dogs @ Buono’s Pizza
  October 7, 11am-1pm

• Gilbert Oktoberfest @ Gilbert Civic Center
  October 7, 2pm

• Gilbert Art Walk - Opening Day
  October 7, 9am-1pm

• Gilbert Cinemas: Elemental @ Gilbert Regional Park
  October 13, 6:30pm

• Life Beyond Cancer Community Group
  October 18, 12pm-1pm

• Annual Trunk or Treat @ The Goddard School
  October 20, 6:15pm-8pm

• Gilbert Cinemas: Hocus Pocus 2 @ Page Park
  October 20, 6:30pm

• 8th Annual Spooktacular Car Show
  October 21, 9am-3pm

• Barktoberfest - Friends for Life Animal Rescue
  October 21, 8am-1pm

• Gilbert Cinemas: Ghostbusters Afterlife @ Gilbert Regional Park
  October 27, 6:30pm

• Guns & Hoses Golf Tournament Charity Event
  November 4, 2023

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