• Gilbert Thrive
  • Posts
  • 🗳 Election Shake-Up, Dads on Patrol, Teen Troubles Tackled, and Salerno's Saucy Saga Spans Generations!

🗳 Election Shake-Up, Dads on Patrol, Teen Troubles Tackled, and Salerno's Saucy Saga Spans Generations!

Issue #108 - February 21, 2024

🗳 Arizona's Election Law Reform Leads to Earlier Primary Elections in Gilbert

👨 Father Figures Take on New Roles at Playa del Rey Elementary Through Watch D.O.G.S. Program

🚨 Teen Girl Arrested in Gilbert for Unreported Assault and Robbery Incident

🌟 Three Generations of Flavor: Inside the Heart of Salerno's Restaurant & Pizzeria

🎈 Discover Local Events Coming Soon

And more…

Arizona's Election Law Reform Leads to Earlier Primary Elections in Gilbert


Gilbert is adapting to a new state mandate by moving its primary elections to July 30, a week earlier than previously scheduled, to allow for an extended recount and preparation period.

This shift is a direct result of recent legislation signed by Governor Katie Hobbs, crafted to prevent disenfranchisement of voters amidst increased recount likelihoods due to changes in state law.

The legislation also introduces specific criteria for signature verification on early ballots and modifies the early ballot curing process, providing a framework intended to safeguard election integrity.

While the law has garnered support for addressing fairness and infrastructure readiness, it has also sparked debate over the practicality of its enforcement and the potential for broader implications on voter engagement and access.

Father Figures Take on New Roles at Playa del Rey Elementary Through Watch D.O.G.S. Program

Playa del Rey Elementary has launched the Watch D.O.G.S. program, inviting dads and father figures to volunteer on campus every Thursday to enhance students' educational experience by acting as positive role models.

The program, which focuses on promoting safety, supporting students and staff, and emphasizing the value of education, has received enthusiastic participation from the school community. Volunteers, identifiable by their official T-shirts, will partake in a range of activities, including monitoring campus safety, assisting with traffic flow, and engaging with students in various educational settings.

This initiative not only aims to enrich the learning environment for students but also to provide father figures with a deeper understanding of the educational process and stronger connections with their children's schooling.

The successful launch event saw significant community support, with donations from local businesses. Interested individuals can contact Playa del Rey Elementary for more information or to volunteer.

Teen Girl Arrested in Gilbert for Unreported Assault and Robbery Incident

In Gilbert, a recent police operation led to the arrest of a 17-year-old girl linked to an assault and robbery incident from the previous year. The episode, which took place in a parking lot near the bustling area of Market Street and Williams Field Road, had gone unreported until the authorities' intervention.

The teenager now faces serious charges including aggravated robbery, assault, and disorderly conduct, with her case pending review by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.

This arrest is part of a wider crackdown on teen violence within the East Valley, with Gilbert police having made a total of 41 arrests since early 2022. The police department continues to seek assistance from the public in bringing further incidents to light, urging anyone with information to make contact through their hotline @ 480-503-6500 or online reporting system.

Peacock Wine & Book Bar

Schnepf Farms

Archer’s Bikes

Pixie Sticks Boutique

Romeo’s Euro Café

Sip & Shop

Three Generations of Flavor: Inside the Heart of Salerno's Restaurant & Pizzeria

Down the way in the Town of Gilbert, Salerno's Restaurant & Pizzeria stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of "The American Dream," a dream brought to life by Vince and Ida Salerno after their emigration from Calabria, Italy, in 1956. What began as a modest neighborhood bar in Berwyn, IL, in 1966, has blossomed into a beloved Italian restaurant, renowned for its 95% homemade offerings and signature Chicago Style Pizza. This culinary gem, now a cornerstone of the East Valley's dining scene since 2004, encapsulates the essence of family, tradition, and unparalleled Italian cuisine.

A Family Legacy Spanning Generations

The story of Salerno's is a narrative of family, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. With three generations working side by side, the Salerno family honors their rich heritage through every dish served. The presence of Grandma and Grandpa Salerno in the daily operations not only adds to the authenticity of the experience but also serves as a living bridge to the restaurant's illustrious beginnings.

More Than Just a Restaurant

Salerno's Restaurant & Pizzeria is celebrated not only for its exquisite dine-in and carry-out service but also for its expertise in hosting events that mark life's most significant moments. From weddings and rehearsal dinners to graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, and religious events, Salerno's dedication to quality service and exceeding expectations makes every occasion memorable. Their commitment to treating every customer like family and working within any budget to ensure satisfaction has endeared them to the hearts of many in the Gilbert community.

Culinary Excellence Rooted in Tradition

At the core of Salerno's menu is a deep-rooted commitment to homemade authenticity, with a vast majority of its offerings crafted in-house, preserving the flavors and techniques passed down through generations. The restaurant's Chicago Style Pizza, a nod to its origins, remains a crowd favorite, embodying the rich, comforting essence of true Italian-American cuisine.

Community Reflections

Patrons of Salerno's often speak of more than just the food; they recount stories of warmth, familial hospitality, and a sense of belonging. The restaurant's ability to blend culinary expertise with a personal touch has forged lasting relationships with its customers, many of whom consider Salerno's an extension of their own family.

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:

Click links below for more details on each event

Ongoing Events

Upcoming Events

NOTE: Click links for more details on each event

Know of an upcoming event we should know about?  Let us know!

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! 👇👇👇

Join the conversation

or to participate.