Gilbert Parks and Recreation Unveils Winter Program Lineup

The Gilbert Parks and Recreation Department has officially opened registration for its winter sports leagues, classes, and programs, inviting residents to engage in various activities designed for all ages. The winter lineup includes unique events such as winter break camps, Galentine's Bingo, and the town's inaugural Polar Plunge. These activities are part of a broader effort to provide community members with diverse recreational opportunities during the colder months.

Among the most anticipated events are the 2024 Father/Daughter Dances scheduled for February 2-3 and Kids Baking classes at the Gilbert Community Center, both of which are expected to be highly popular and may sell out quickly. For adults looking to stay active and socially connected, the town is offering a range of sports leagues and classes. These include tennis lessons, a co-ed volleyball league, and an indoor soccer league at Cactus Yards, catering to various interests and fitness levels.

Residents interested in exploring the full range of activities can access Gilbert's online catalog, which details all upcoming winter sports leagues, classes, and programs. Additionally, a monthly newsletter is available, providing updates and information on the latest offerings from Gilbert Parks and Recreation.

Local Business Owner Triumphs in Zoning Battle in Gilbert

Ronald Ore-Giron, owner of a vehicle storage business in Gilbert, recently faced the possibility of losing his livelihood. His business, located in a rural residential zoning district in a county island near Gilbert and Water Tank roads, was deemed out of compliance by Maricopa County in April 2022. Ore-Giron, relying on this business for his income, especially after an injury that limited his work options, applied for a special use permit and presented his case to the county Planning and Zoning Commission.

Despite a staff recommendation for denial and lack of support from Gilbert, Ore-Giron emphasized the necessity of his business for his family's well-being. Planner Paola Jaramillo noted that Ore-Giron had been operating the storage facility since 2009 on 1.5 acres of his 2.5-acre property. The business mainly serviced residents unable to store their recreational vehicles due to HOA regulations. Jaramillo expressed concerns about the incompatibility of the business with the surrounding residential area and the safety issues due to limited access from Water Tank Road.

The hearing included testimonies from neighbors and local business owners. Jennifer Papp, owner of a neighboring preschool, raised concerns about safety and aesthetics, while other neighbors spoke in favor of Ore-Giron, highlighting the minimal traffic impact of his business. Commissioner Jimmy Lindblom supported Ore-Giron's permit, citing the business's minimal impact on the neighborhood and Ore-Giron's efforts to comply with regulations. The commission ultimately granted the permit with stipulations, including limiting the number of vehicles on-site and operating hours.

Duchess of Beauty: Gilbert's New Destination for Designer Bags and Hair Extensions

Duchess of Beauty Extensions Bar & Boutique has opened at San Tan Village mall in Gilbert, offering an exclusive range of beauty and fashion products.

Located at 2270 E. Williams Field Road, Suite 105, the boutique specializes in extensions, raw virgin hair bundles, custom HD wig units, beauty supplies, and designer bags.

As a partner with luxury brands like Gucci, Marc Jacobs, Coach, and Versace, it provides a high-end shopping experience for local fashion and beauty enthusiasts.

For more information, including product details and store hours, interested patrons can visit the boutique's website or contact them directly at 602-999-8765. The boutique's website can be found at https://duchessmedspa.godaddysites.com

Enchanting Holiday Lights Transform the Valley into a Winter Wonderland

The holiday season in the Valley brings a dazzling array of light displays and festive activities, transforming various locations into enchanting landscapes of twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Residents and visitors alike have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the festive spirit by exploring numerous holiday-themed attractions across the region.

One notable residential display is by John Nelson of Queen Creek, who adorns his home at 23467 S. 223rd Court with approximately 70,000 lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. His setup includes 13,000 lights forming a twinkling curtain along the side of the house and 25,000 lights on trees and bushes, synchronized to music. Occasionally, visitors might also spot the Grinch distributing candy canes. Nelson encourages the public to visit and enjoy the display, and has even shared a video of it on TikTok.

For those concerned about the cost of such grand displays, SRP spokesperson Jennifer Schuricht explains that while extravagant lighting can increase electric bills, the impact is minimal, especially with energy-efficient LED lights.

Beyond residential displays, the Valley offers a wide array of commercial and municipal holiday experiences:

• Vertuccio Farms in Mesa hosts "Lights at the Farm," boasting 10 acres of lights synchronized to Christmas music. The farm features a synthetic ice-skating rink and is located at 4011 S. Power Road, running the event through December 23.

• Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek provides Christmas-themed activities, including an Illumination Express Train, showcasing light displays around the farm. Located at 24810 S. Rittenhouse Road, the event continues through December 24.

• The Phoenix Zoo's ZooLights is a long-standing tradition, featuring over 4 million lights, wildlife lanterns, and a 50-foot floating tree. This event is held at 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, until January 14.

• Glendale Glitters celebrates its 30th anniversary with a light display in Downtown Glendale near 59th and Glendale avenues, running through January 1.

• Desert Botanical Garden presents Las Noches de las Luminarias, a tranquil experience with luminaria-lit trails, at 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, until December 30.

• Fairmont Scottsdale Princess's "Christmas at The Princess" offers a winter wonderland at 7575 E. Princess Drive, including an ice-skating rink and Princess Express trains, running through January 6.

• Enchant Christmas at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale, features an ice skating rink and a claimed world's largest Christmas light maze, open through December 31.

• Old Town Scottsdale's Scottsdazzle Holiday Extravaganza includes free events and a stunning Christmas tree at the Scottsdale Waterfront, continuing through December 31.

• World of Illumination presents two drive-thru light shows: "Reindeer Road" in Glendale and "Cosmic Sleighride" in Tempe, both available through December 31.

These holiday light experiences offer a variety of festive activities for all ages, making the Valley a vibrant destination for celebrating the holiday season.

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