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- 🏡 Phoenix's Diverse Suburban Oasis, D-Backs Last Stand, Community Treasures, and More!
🏡 Phoenix's Diverse Suburban Oasis, D-Backs Last Stand, Community Treasures, and More!
Issue #27 - October 24, 2023
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In this Gilbert Thrive Issue…
🏡 From Luxury to Adventure: Exploring Phoenix's Diverse Suburban Oasis
🐦 81-Year-Old Birding Expert Wins Hearts and Volunteer of the Year Title
⚾ D-backs Roar Back: Game 7 Showdown Awaits After Thrilling Win Against Phillies
☕ Coffee Break
🌟 Sip & Shop: Where Pandemic Inspiration Blossoms into Community Treasure
🎈 Discover Local Events Coming Soon
And more…
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From Luxury to Adventure: Exploring Phoenix's Diverse Suburban Oasis
Phoenix, Arizona, isn't just a vibrant city; it's surrounded by incredible suburbs, each with its own unique appeal. From luxurious enclaves to tech hubs and family-friendly neighborhoods, these suburbs cater to every lifestyle. Here's a glimpse of the top 10 suburbs in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
1. Scottsdale: The Oasis of Luxury
Population: 242,753
Avg. Age: 47.7
Median Household Income: $97,409
Known for: Luxury, art, world-class golf, upscale shopping, and gourmet dining. Also offers outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding.
2. Chandler: Balancing Sophistication and Warmth
Population: 279,458
Avg. Age: 36.7
Median Household Income: $91,299
Known for: A unique blend of tech-driven progress and Southwestern charm, featuring high-end shopping, local farmers' markets, theaters, and the annual Ostrich Festival.
3. Gilbert: From Hay Shipping to Innovation
Population: 273,136
Avg. Age: 34.5
Median Household Income: $105,733
Known for: A growing city with top-rated schools and parks, offering outdoor concerts, farmers' markets, and green spaces for relaxation.
4. Mesa: Aerospace, Education, and Adventure
Population: 509,475
Avg. Age: 36.2
Median Household Income: $65,725
Known for: Being an epicenter for aerospace ventures, higher education, and tech enterprises while maintaining access to the natural beauty of Arizona.
5. Paradise Valley: A Haven of Opulence
Population: 12,682
Avg. Age: 54.9
Median Household Income: $203,659
Known for: Upscale estates, breathtaking mountain views, and celebrity residents, offering a level of opulence seldom seen elsewhere.
6. Glendale: History and Excitement
Population: 249,630
Avg. Age: 33.8
Median Household Income: $60,499
Known for: Historic downtown, antique shops, the State Farm Stadium hosting Cardinals games and concerts, and various events and festivals.
7. Peoria: Adventure and Serenity
Population: 194,917
Avg. Age: 40.3
Median Household Income: $81,017
Known for: Sprawling Lake Pleasant Regional Park, a vibrant P83 District with dining options, serene suburban life, top-tier educational institutions, and sustainable growth.
8. Surprise: Expect the Unexpected
Population: 149,191
Avg. Age: 41.9
Median Household Income: $76,623
Known for: Spring Training baseball games, well-maintained parks, a growing hub for education and healthcare, a commitment to sustainable growth, and diverse housing options.
9. Fountain Hills: Where Nature Meets Elegance
Population: 24,987
Avg. Age: 59.7
Median Household Income: $87,080
Known for: Panoramic views, natural beauty, renowned art fairs, craft shows, local markets, spacious parks, hiking trails, and community engagement.
10. Avondale: Balance and Thrills
Population: 90,564
Avg. Age: 31.6
Median Household Income: $69,241
Known for: Phoenix Raceway, beautiful parks, family-friendly spaces, a flourishing local economy, delightful dining, and a warm and welcoming community.
These Phoenix suburbs offer something for everyone, making them top choices for those seeking a balanced, vibrant, and fulfilling lifestyle in the heart of the Southwest.
81-Year-Old Birding Expert Wins Hearts and Volunteer of the Year Title
Theona Vyvial, a dedicated volunteer in Gilbert, has been named Volunteer of the Year by the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association.
For almost two decades, she has been leading bird-watching tours at the Riparian Preserve, introducing people to the world of birds. Her passion for conservation and her ability to make it contagious has made her an integral part of the community.
Alongside her bird-watching tours, she also delivers meals and leads field trips for seniors at the Gilbert Community Center, contributing significantly to the town's fabric.
D-backs Roar Back: Game 7 Showdown Awaits After Thrilling Win Against Phillies
We ain't done yet. #EmbraceTheChaos
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks)
12:10 AM • Oct 24, 2023
The D-backs' Corbin Carroll is buzzing with excitement as they head into Game 7 of the National League Championship Series. The team forced a Game 7 with a 5-1 win over the Phillies in Game 6, marking their first-ever elimination-game win on the road.
Carroll and his teammates are thrilled about the opportunity to make it to the World Series with a win. Although the Phillies were previously unbeaten at home during the postseason, the D-backs were the first team to conquer their home ballpark this postseason.
Stellar pitching by Merrill Kelly, early leads, and aggressive base running have been keys to their success.
Now, they face the chance to reach the World Series for the second time in their franchise history. It's a remarkable turnaround for the D-backs, who were behind 0-2 in the series and now have a chance to make history by ousting the Phillies on their home turf.
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Sip & Shop: Where Pandemic Inspiration Blossoms into Community Treasure
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a unique gem emerged in Gilbert, known as "Sip & Shop, A Local Collection." Nestled in the SanTan Village Mall, this one-of-a-kind establishment has not only weathered the storm but flourished, offering a haven for more than 55 small businesses under one roof.
A Retail Oasis of Variety:
At Sip & Shop, diversity is the name of the game. From local foods, jewelry, clothing, and home décor to seasonal and holiday items, this charming store has something for everyone. Yet, it doesn't stop at merchandise. Sip & Shop also hosts a range of classes, making it a versatile haven for shoppers and learners. The "sip" part of the equation is equally exciting, as the store supports local wineries and distilleries, featuring rotating selections each weekend.
A Pandemic-Born Dream:
Tiffany Shultz, the owner of Sip & Shop, comes from a background in journalism and marketing. She initially ventured into PR and marketing and later delved into organizing events. After experiencing the world of events through various clients, she decided to host her events. A partnership with the town of Queen Creek paved the way for her event planning endeavors, which took off in 2014.
However, when the pandemic disrupted the events industry, Shultz's plans came to a halt. To adapt to the changing times and continue supporting her network of vendors, she initiated Sip & Shop as a temporary pop-up store in SanTan mall in November 2020.
What was meant to be a six-week pop-up turned into a thriving business that has lasted for nearly a year and a half. In a heartwarming twist, vendors who were left without opportunities during the pandemic joined Sip & Shop.
Today, the store boasts a waitlist of vendors eager to participate, emphasizing the sense of community among the businesses and their customers.
Supporting Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Shultz's vision for Sip & Shop extends beyond providing retail opportunities. She aims to nurture aspiring entrepreneurs, young and old alike. With a mission to create a space for young creators to showcase their talents, this business has become a hub for children with entrepreneurial aspirations.
The store sells an array of products crafted by children aged 7 to 16, from resin keychains to cactus pin cushions.
A Growing Community:
Shultz's transition from festival producer to store owner has been a thrilling journey. Her favorite aspect of the business is witnessing other businesses thrive and being part of a vibrant community. Customers often express how the store brings them happiness, reflecting the positive impact Sip & Shop has on its patrons.
As Sip & Shop continues to flourish, Shultz has her sights set on a second location in the Queen Creek area, aiming to accommodate around 50 businesses. The expansion will include a broader selection of food from local vendors and a welcoming patio area, elevating the shopping experience.
For those who wish to explore the variety at Sip & Shop or apply to become a vendor, visit their website at sipandshoparizona.com.
Sip & Shop has truly blossomed as a heartwarming community treasure, offering support, growth, and happiness to all who visit.
We Want to Spotlight Your Business!
Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Gilbert area residents in an upcoming issue of Gilbert Thrive?
We ❤️ Local Businesses!
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:
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Ongoing Events
Steel Magnolias @ Hale Centre Theatre
Showings until Nov 21Harvest in the Heritage District (Themed Events to Explore Downtown Gilbert)
Sep 22 to Nov 5Vertuccio Farms Fall Festival
September 29th to October 29thPumpkin & Chili Party @ Schnepf Farms
October 5 to October 29Doll House Haunted House @ Campo Verde High School
October 26 - 28, starting at 5:30pmTaylor Swift Eras Tour @ Harkins
Check for showtimesGilbert Farmers Market @ Downtown Gilbert
Every Saturday, 8am-12pm
Upcoming Events
Parent/Tot: Birds, Bugs, and Blossoms @ Riparian Reserve
October 25, 9am-10amConcerts in the Park @ Water Tower Plaza
October 26, 6:30pm-8:30pmTrick or Treat Bash @ Freestone Rec Center
October 27, 5pmFall Festival @ Horseshoe Park
October 27, 5pm-8pmHalloween Spooktacular @ Dr. AJ Chandler Park
October 27, 5:30pm-8:30pmGilbert Cinemas: Ghostbusters Afterlife @ Gilbert Regional Park
October 27, 6:30pmGilbert Halloweekend Bar Crawl
October 27, 4pm-11pmPixie Sticks Halloween Bash & Dog Costume Contest
October 28, 10am-2pmFamily Paint Party @ McQueen Park Activity Center
October 28, 1pm-4pmCops & Goblins Trunk-or-Treat @ Gilbert Police Station
October 28, 5pm-8pmIt’s a Scavenger Hunt!
October 28 & 29, Starts at 5pmGilbert Water Tower Lighting - Halloween
October 31, 5:15pmParent/Tot: Birds, Bugs, and Blossoms @ Riparian Reserve
November 1, 9am-10amFor Our Town Gilbert Quarterly Breakfast
November 2, 2023Zane Lamprey Thristy! Comedy Tour
November 2, 8pm-9:30pmGilbert Cinemas: Lyle, Lyle Crocodile @ Page Park
November 3, 6:30pmMade for Mama Market & Expo
November 4 & 5, 10am-3pmGuns & Hoses Golf Tournament Charity Event
November 4, 2023Sip, Paint, Relax @ Painting With a Twist
November 11, 7pm-9pmGilbert Days Music Festival
November 17 & 18, 4pm-9pm
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Add Verde Canyon Railroad ’s Fright Night to your list of things to do this fall!
👻 You can find this stationed at the Clarkdale Depot until October 31. Who wants to go? (only 2 hours from Phoenix)
Know of an upcoming event we should know about? Let us know!
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We could use your help
We’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help!
One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.
Know somebody who lives in the Gilbert Area and would benefit from being kept in the know?
Please share Gilbert Thrive with them! It’s simple! 👇👇👇
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