Arizona Legislators Discuss Strategies for Addressing Budget Shortfall and Local Needs

The new legislative session in Arizona, beginning on January 8th, is set against the backdrop of a challenging $400 million budget shortfall. This issue was a key topic at Gilbert’s annual legislative meeting, where State Senate President Warren Petersen (R-Gilbert) and State Rep. Jennifer Pawlik (D-Chandler) outlined their priorities. Other legislative representatives from Gilbert, including Reps. Laurin Hendrix and Travis Grantham, as well as Sen. J.D. Mesnard and Rep. Julie Willoughby, were invited but did not participate.

Rep. Pawlik, in her final term representing Legislative District 13, emphasized her focus on education, water management, and affordable housing. She expressed hope that the budget constraints would not lead to cuts in education and mentioned ongoing work on bills addressing water and housing issues.

Senate President Petersen, representing Legislative District 14, highlighted inflation, public safety, water issues, and the budget gap as his priorities. He mentioned a GOP-led initiative to reduce gas prices by allowing more gasoline blends in Maricopa County and a plan to increase teacher pay using State Land Trust funds. Petersen also discussed water conservation achievements in Arizona and addressed the border crisis, emphasizing support for law enforcement, especially in border communities.

Regarding the budget gap, Petersen suggested a zero-based budget approach, seeking input from both Republican and Democratic members on their priorities and areas for potential cuts.

Gilbert officials, including the public works director, police chief, fire chief, development services director, and budget director, used the majority of the meeting time to update the lawmakers on local projects and challenges, such as the proposed victims advocacy center, North Water Treatment Plant, and the need for a crime lab. They also discussed the impacts of inflation and supply chain issues on their departments.

Councilman Scott Anderson was absent, and the public was not present due to inadequate publicity of the meeting on the town's website

Gilbert Historical Museum Presents 'Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King' Photo Exhibit

HD South, home of the Gilbert Historical Museum, is currently showcasing a significant photography exhibit titled "Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King." This exhibit, available for viewing during the museum's regular hours in Gallery 4, is a collaboration between Art Intersection and HD South. It presents a remarkable collection of photographs from two distinguished photographers, Dan Budnik and Susan Berger.

Dan Budnik, renowned for his 55-year career as a photojournalist, captured pivotal moments of social, political, and cultural change. His work in this exhibit transports viewers back to seminal events of the Civil Rights Movement, including the Selma-Montgomery March, the March on Washington DC, and scenes surrounding the passage of the Voting Rights Act. These historical photographs offer a window into the intensity and emotion of these landmark events.

Complementing Budnik's work, photographs by Susan Berger are featured from her book "Life and Soul—American Streets Honoring Martin Luther King." Berger's work adds a contemporary dimension to the exhibit, reflecting the ongoing impact and legacy of Dr. King's life and work across America.

This exhibit not only honors Dr. King's legacy but also provides a visual journey through critical chapters of American history. It will be available for public viewing at HD South in Gilbert until February 10.

Hale Centre Theatre Celebrates The Beatles in a Special Tribute Concert Series

Hale Centre Theatre is hosting a tribute concert celebrating the legendary music of The Beatles, offering an immersive experience for fans of the iconic band. The concert series, which runs through January 27th, features a collection of The Beatles' most beloved hits, including classics like “Hey Jude,” “Get Back,” “A Hard Day's Night,” and “Let It Be.”

Audiences can expect a vibrant performance from the talented 'four lads from Hale,' who are accompanied by a live band and several special guest artists. The concerts are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, with additional matinee performances at 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, all taking place in the new Hale Concert Hall.

Ticket prices for this musical journey range from $20 to $50, providing an accessible opportunity for Beatles enthusiasts and music lovers to enjoy timeless tunes. For further information or to purchase tickets, interested parties can contact Hale Centre Theatre at 480-497-1181 or visit their website at http://www.haletheatrearizona.com/

Donations Needed as 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

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