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- ⚠ Downtown Dilemmas: Gilbert's Heritage District Grapples with Nightclub-Style Business Entry, and More!
⚠ Downtown Dilemmas: Gilbert's Heritage District Grapples with Nightclub-Style Business Entry, and More!
Issue #48 - November 22, 2023
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⚠ Downtown Dilemmas: Gilbert's Heritage District Grapples with Nightclub-Style Business Entry
💛 Papa Murphy's Sponsorship Rewards Kinslee with a Special Ride to School for Spreading Kindness
💰 Compensation Conversation: Gilbert Officials Deliberate Pay Changes
🎈 Discover Local Events Coming Soon
And more…
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Downtown Dilemmas: Gilbert's Heritage District Grapples with Nightclub-Style Business Entry
In the heart of Gilbert's Heritage District, a cherished downtown hub, recent changes have stirred community concern. Bergie's Coffee, a local fixture for 14 years, closed its doors at the end of 2022, making way for Bottled Blonde Pizzeria and Beer Garden. The vacant cottage, once a communal space, is set to be replaced, sparking debates among residents about the character of the proposed establishment.
Bottled Blonde, known for its locations in Old Town Scottsdale and other states, is viewed by some as more of a nightclub than a restaurant. This shift echoes a similar situation in downtown Phoenix, where efforts were made to prevent the construction of a controversial bar, Federales, on Roosevelt Row. In both instances, communities voiced opposition to businesses with a nightclub focus, fearing a departure from the family-friendly, walkable atmosphere they cherish.
The proposed changes in Gilbert and Phoenix have sparked discussions about preserving the cultural identity of these downtown districts. Concerns raised in Phoenix about Federales' nightclub atmosphere, as evidenced by reviews from its Chicago location, find echoes in the skepticism surrounding Bottled Blonde's impact on Gilbert's Heritage District.
Despite these concerns, developers and restaurant representatives emphasize the culinary aspect of their establishments. In both cases, the community's apprehension signals a broader trend where residents rally to protect the unique charm of their neighborhoods amid the influx of businesses perceived as more suited to nightlife than a family-oriented community.
Papa Murphy's Sponsorship Rewards Kinslee with a Special Ride to School for Spreading Kindness
In a refreshing departure from traditional fundraisers, a local school's initiative stands out for promoting kindness over selling goods. The Raise Craze Fundraiser at American Leadership Academy in south Gilbert turned the spotlight on Kinslee, a young participant who went above and beyond.
Her acts of kindness not only won her the fundraiser but also a memorable ride to school in a Chandler police patrol unit, courtesy of Officer Willie Walker. The community applauds the Chandler police for recognizing Kinslee's efforts and extends gratitude to her for exemplifying the spirit of goodwill.
Compensation Conversation: Gilbert Officials Deliberate Pay Changes
Gilbert's mayor and council members are considering adjustments to their compensation, initiating a formal discussion on salaries, travel stipends, and other benefits.
The town's intergovernmental relations director highlighted that current pay rates fall below regional averages, with Mayor Brigette Peterson expressing contentment with the status quo. Councilman Jim Torgeson pushed for a comprehensive discussion, citing instances where potential candidates withdrew due to financial concerns.
While some council members, including Vice Mayor Kathy Tilque, expressed reservations about increasing pay amid ongoing community discussions on rates and bonds, further talks on the matter are still on the table.
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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
Fiddler on the Roof @ Hale Centre Theatre
Showings until Nov 25Gilbert Farmers Market @ Downtown Gilbert
Every Saturday, 8am-12pm
Upcoming Events
Made With Love Market: Holiday Kickoff
Nov 24 & 25, 9:30am-2:30pmEnchant Christmas Experience @ Scottsdale Salt River Fields
Nov 24 to Dec 31Gilbert Art Walk
Nov 25, Dec 2, Dec 9, Dec 16, Dec 23Paisley Pumpkin Fall Street Fair @ SanTan Village
Nov 25, 10am-6pmGilbert Holiday Lighting Celebration
Nov 27, 6pm-8:30pmPeppermint Lane Winter Market
Nov 30 & Dec 1, 9am-5pmChristmas Idea House
Nov 30 to Dec 2Jingle Bell Express @ McQueen Activity Center
Dec 8, 10am-11:30amNativity Drive-Thru @ Gilbert AZ Stake
Dec 15 to 17, 6pm-9pmSanta Paws Pictures @ Gilbert Community Center
Dec 18, 5:30pm-7pmRocky Mountain Christmas @ Higley Center
Dec 23, 7:30pm
Know of an upcoming event we should know about? Let us know!
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