Car Crash Adds to Financial Woes of Gilbert's Beloved Peacock Wine & Book Bar

Julia Wallace, the owner of Peacock Wine & Book Bar in Gilbert, faced a severe setback when a car crashed into her business just before New Year's Day weekend, compounding financial challenges already present due to the pandemic.

Previously, Wallace had launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $150,000 to keep her passion project afloat. The accident at 1525 N. Gilbert Road caused no injuries but added to the bar's financial strain. Wallace reopened the bar quickly after the incident but acknowledged the significant revenue loss due to the accident.

Gilbert Police reported the crash, caused by a 21-year-old driver mistaking the accelerator for the brake, didn't result in injuries or severe structural damage. Despite having insurance, Wallace noted it did not cover all costs, including loss of wages for staff. The GoFundMe campaign has raised a fraction of the desired amount.

Opened in August 2019, Peacock Wine & Book Bar offers a selection of wines, craft beers, small bites, books, and gifts, along with a wine club membership. Wallace, who has a background in psychology and worked with children with special needs, ventured into this business seeking to create an atmospheric wine bar reminiscent of those in major cities. The bar, which also houses “Literally, A Bookshop”, has struggled since the pandemic but has remained a community staple, hosting author signings and book fundraisers.

Wallace, a Gilbert Chamber of Commerce ambassador and active community member, continues to brainstorm ways to reinvent and raise the profile of her establishment. Her efforts include extending operation hours and introducing craft classes.

Help Keep Peacock Wine & Book Bar Thriving: https://www.gofundme.com/f/k7aa6k

Gilbert Town Council Unanimously Votes for Subcommittee on Teen Violence Amid Heated Debate

In a recent Gilbert Town Council meeting, a unanimous vote led to the establishment of a new subcommittee dedicated to addressing the rising issue of teen violence in the community. The decision followed a heated debate, particularly focused on the proposed approach to tackle the problem. Councilmember Kathy Tilque suggested expanding the Community Engagement Task Force's remit to include teen violence and increasing its membership. This proposal was met with strong opposition from Councilmember Chuck Bongiovanni, who, along with Councilmembers Jim Torgeson and Scott Anderson, displayed small orange memorial candles symbolizing support for addressing teen violence.

Bongiovanni advocated for immediate action through a dedicated subcommittee, emphasizing the need for promptness over bureaucratic processes. Mayor Brigette Peterson suggested that a task force could potentially operate with fewer restrictions compared to a council subcommittee. However, Bongiovanni and Torgeson countered, arguing that a specialized subcommittee would be more effective in directly handling the teen violence issue.

The debate intensified, with Bongiovanni expressing frustration over what he perceived as unnecessary internal conflict, or a "turf war," within the council. This sentiment resonated with the audience, predominantly dressed in orange shirts bearing the slogan "#JusticeforPrestonLord," who voiced their support through applause, despite previous requests from Vice Mayor Scott Anderson for no clapping.

Recognizing the urgency conveyed by the audience, Peterson concurred, and the council proceeded to the vote. The new teen violence subcommittee, comprising Bongiovanni, Torgeson, and Anderson, was formed with a mandate to develop its operational framework by the next council meeting on January 23.

Tri-City Economic Update: Shaping the Future of Queen Creek, Gilbert, and Chandler

The Tri-City Economic Development Update, an informative event focusing on the economic growth of Queen Creek, Gilbert, and Chandler, is set to take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18, at the Avion Center in Chandler.

This event is an opportunity to learn about the advancements and future prospects in business retention, attraction, and expansion in the East Valley region. Organized by the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce, the event is jointly sponsored by SRP and the Queen Creek, Chandler, and Gilbert chambers of commerce.

The update will feature a panel of distinguished speakers who are key figures in regional economic development. These include:

• Angie Bond-Simpson, SRP’s Senior Director of Resource Management

• Doreen Cott, Queen Creek’s Economic Development Director

• Dan Henderson, Gilbert’s Economic Development Director

• Micah Miranda, Chandler’s Economic Development Director

• Mark A. Paratore, Vice President of Business Development at the Greater Phoenix Economic Council

Their insights will provide attendees with an overview of the intentional and strategic efforts being made to foster economic growth in these rapidly developing areas.

The event, which costs $35 per person, includes lunch and offers a valuable networking opportunity for attendees. Registration for the event can be completed online at https://zurl.co/rlIm

Friends For Life Animal Rescue Looking For Item Donations and Shoppers

Mastering the Flow: Arizona Water Tech’s Commitment to Quality Water Services

In the Valley of the Sun, Arizona Water Tech stands as a beacon of expertise in water management, providing essential services that ensure safe, clean, and efficient water use for households and businesses alike. This company goes beyond mere service; it represents a commitment to quality, ethics, and unparalleled customer experience in the realm of water technology.

Masters of Water Management

Arizona Water Tech specializes in a variety of water-related services. From filtering and softening water to tackling complex plumbing problems, they have an expert for every need. Their mastery is not limited to resolving issues but extends to enhancing the quality of water, ensuring that every drop that flows into homes and businesses is clean, safe, and tailored to the needs of its users.

A Network of Trustworthy Partnerships

The company's strength lies in its partnerships with renowned industry leaders such as GE Smart Water, WaterTech Industries, and Viqua Ultra Violet Disinfection. As an authorized GE Smart Water installation and service company, Arizona Water Tech plays a pivotal role in installing softeners and reverse osmosis systems for major builders throughout the valley. Their collaboration with top water heating manufacturers underlines their commitment to providing top-tier service and products.

Emergency Services and Customer Care

One of the hallmarks of Arizona Water Tech is their exceptional customer service. Unlike many businesses, they don't rely on an answering service. Calls are answered directly by a manager from 8 AM to 9 PM, ensuring prompt and personal attention, especially in emergencies.

A Wide Array of Services

Arizona Water Tech’s expertise is vast, covering everything from garbage disposal installations to water heater repair and replacement. They provide comprehensive solutions for whole-house plumbing repairs, leak detectors, and chlorine, taste, and odor filters. Additionally, their offerings include ultraviolet disinfection systems, designer faucets for reverse osmosis, kitchen faucet replacement, and toilet repair. Notably, their service extends to providing self-contained water coolers and reverse osmosis rentals for both office and home use.

Community Feedback: A Testament to Excellence

Residents and business owners in the Valley of the Sun have consistently praised Arizona Water Tech for their expertise, reliability, and customer-centric approach. Customers highlight the peace of mind that comes with knowing their water management needs are in the hands of skilled professionals committed to ethical service and quality.

More Info: https://www.myarizonawatertech.com/

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