Higley School Board Addresses Community Concerns Over Youth Violence

At the Higley Unified School District governing board meeting on January 18th, a critical discussion took place regarding the recent outbreak of youth violence in the community, particularly in the wake of the tragic death of Combs High School student Preston Lord.

Outgoing President Tiffany Shultz, along with the administration, issued statements emphasizing the district's commitment to being part of the solution to combat teen violence. Shultz, donning an orange ribbon symbolizing support for Justice 4 Preston Lord, expressed a strong desire for the district to actively participate in community efforts against such violence.

Interim Superintendent Sherry Richards highlighted the district's existing programs focused on character development and values, underscoring the importance of continuous improvement and collaboration in community initiatives.

The board showed interest in exploring Katey McPherson’s proposed Upstander program, a community-driven initiative aimed at addressing youth violence.

While Board Member Anna Van Hoek expressed reservations about implementing new programs that could divert attention from academics, she acknowledged the role of family environments in addressing these issues and supported the efforts of the Gilbert Town Council’s Teen Violence Subcommittee.

In contrast, Board Member Kristina Reese advocated for a more proactive role for the district in community discussions and suggested revisiting the Upstander initiative for potential adoption or support in hosting community meetings.

The Arizona Wedding Show: Where Dreams Meet Reality for Future Brides and Grooms

Kim Horn, an Ahwatukee resident and one of only 75 Master Wedding Planners, is poised and prepared for the upcoming semi-annual Arizona Wedding Show. This event marks her first time as the owner, having previously assisted in its planning.

The show, known for alleviating wedding planning stress, will feature over 200 vendors from various aspects of the wedding industry. Set to take place at the Phoenix Convention Center, the event is designed to provide a comprehensive view of wedding essentials, including venues, DJs, caterers, and bridal attire.

In addition to showcasing the latest trends in wedding fashion and accessories, the show offers attendees the opportunity to win a luxury wedding package and other giveaways. The event also includes bridal gown fashion shows, organized by Horn's daughter Alexa, and a competition among caterers for the best food samples.

Horn emphasizes the importance of personal connections between couples and vendors, offering an interactive experience that goes beyond online research. The show aims to inspire and assist brides and grooms in making informed decisions about their wedding arrangements.

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

Wayback Burgers Debuts in Arizona with Gilbert Town Square Opening

Wayback Burgers, a renowned burger chain, marked its expansion into Arizona with the opening of its first store in the state at 1110 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert, in the Gilbert Town Square.

The company, which operates 156 locations, is based in Cheshire, Connecticut but traces its origins to 1991 in Newark, Delaware, where it started as Jake's Hamburgers. Known for its commitment to quality, Wayback Burgers offers a menu featuring handmade burgers, hand-dipped shakes, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, salads, and regional specialties.

The Gilbert store's opening brings the chain's signature dining experience, characterized by its classic, nostalgic Americana vibe, to the local community. For more information or inquiries, customers can contact the Gilbert location at 480-892-1272 or visit the company's website at https://waybackburgers.com/

Cookie Mill: Debbie George’s Sweet Success Story in Gilbert

In the quaint Vincenz neighborhood of east Gilbert, the Cookie Mill operates out of a modest 1,100-square-foot home, which is both the residence and the business hub for Debbie George. This unique venture, far from the typical commercial bakery, reflects the extraordinary dedication and hard work of its owner, who has transformed her passion for cookie-making into a thriving business.

From Passion to Profession

Debbie George's journey into the world of cookie artistry began with a simple cookie-decorating class she attended with her daughter. This experience ignited a passion that soon evolved into a full-fledged business. After her daughter decided to step away from her own cookie venture, Debbie caught the cookie bug and embarked on her path, selling her Mesa home and moving to Gilbert to pursue her dream.

A Gilbert Company at Heart

Debbie's decision to establish Cookie Mill in Gilbert was influenced by her vision for the company and the town's agricultural roots. Inspired by her Massachusetts upbringing and the red barns of the countryside, she envisioned Cookie Mill not just as a business but as a concept that resonates with the community feel of Gilbert.

CookieCon and Continuous Learning

Debbie's commitment to excellence led her to attend "CookieCon," an annual convention that provided her with invaluable insights and techniques in cookie decoration. Her participation in this event, marked by seminars and community engagement, showcases her dedication to refining her skills and exploring new possibilities in cookie artistry.

A Business Model of Innovation and Quality

Cookie Mill specializes in creating custom cookies for corporate events, using high-quality ingredients and techniques to replicate precise logos and QR codes on cookies. Debbie’s meticulous work includes over 4,800 cookie cutters, enabling her to cater to any theme imaginable. Besides corporate orders, she also accommodates family events and offers DIY kits for personal cookie decorating experiences.

The Challenges and Triumphs of Running Cookie Mill

Running Cookie Mill hasn't been without its challenges, especially during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, Debbie's resilience and the proceeds from the sale of her Mesa home helped sustain the business. The cyclical nature of the business, with its highs and lows, is something she has learned to navigate with a blend of optimism and hard work.

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

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! 👇👇👇