Future of Gilbert's Parks: Board Prioritizes Regional Park Expansion in Funding Race

In Gilbert, Arizona, the ongoing development and enhancement of Gilbert Regional Park has emerged as a paramount concern for the town's Parks and Recreation Board. At a recent meeting, board members identified the build-out of the remaining 185 acres of the park, potentially incorporating features such as a pump track and additional playing fields, as their highest priority among several community-desired amenities.

This decision comes as the Parks and Recreation Department prepares to compete for funding alongside the police and fire departments at an upcoming council financial retreat scheduled for March 11. With a collective proposal exceeding $1 billion from all three departments, the focus sharpens on the allocation of resources, with parks and recreation needs alone requesting approximately $727 million.

Despite this substantial financial requirement, department Director Robert Carmona acknowledges the likelihood of not receiving the full amount sought. The prioritization exercise conducted by the board, which saw a recreation center for south Gilbert and a pickleball complex at Freestone Park following closely behind the regional park's completion, aims to streamline decision-making as the town approaches its budgetary discussions.

Gilbert's council has recently demonstrated its commitment to advancing these projects, approving substantial design contracts for both the Regional and Desert Sky parks. As these initiatives commence, the department also plans to re-engage the community to validate the desired amenities, reflecting on input gathered from a "historic" level of participation in the town's Parks & Recreation Master Plan.

This expansive engagement underscores Gilbert's pressing need for additional recreational amenities to accommodate its rapidly growing population, projected to reach 330,000 at build-out within the next six to seven years. The town's existing facilities have already seen significant use, with over 5.3 million visits in 2022, highlighting the critical demand for expanded infrastructure.

As the Parks and Recreation Department aligns its priorities with those of the police and fire departments, the broader conversation about funding mechanisms, including the possibility of a hybrid approach combining bonds and a sales tax increase, looms on the horizon. This discussion will be a focal point at the March retreat, as Gilbert seeks to balance its ambitious development goals with the fiscal realities of city planning and infrastructure investment.

Gilbert Lights Up Water Tower in Orange to Stand Against Teen Violence

Gilbert's iconic Water Tower glowed orange on Tuesday and Wednesday night, standing as a beacon of solidarity against teen violence and in memory of Preston Lord, a teenage homicide victim.

Achieving this tribute required innovative problem-solving due to ongoing renovations at Water Tower Plaza that had temporarily disconnected electricity to the structure, which is often illuminated in various colors to mark significant causes and celebrations at the request of residents.

Mayor Brigette Peterson, during a council meeting on February 20, commended the parks and recreation team and the construction contractor for their exceptional efforts in establishing a temporary power solution to light the tower in orange.

This gesture was particularly meaningful to the advocates for Justice 4 Preston Lord, who attended the meeting to express their support and emphasize the importance of raising awareness about teen violence.

The renovation of Water Tower Plaza is expected to be completed in the fall, promising the return of its regular nighttime illumination as a landmark and symbol within the community.

Quilts with a Cause: Gilbert's Trilogy Community Hosts Annual Charity Show

The Trilogy Quilt Show and Country Store, taking place on February 24 at Trilogy at Power Ranch in Gilbert, is more than an exhibition; it's a testament to the power of community and charity.

Organized by the Quilters of Trilogy, a group of 51 dedicated members, the event will feature an array of quilts, baby items, kitchen accessories, and spa products, all crafted with care for sale.

Demonstrations by skilled quilters and an antique/classic car show add to the day's attractions. Proceeds and unsold items benefit local charities, embodying the club's mission to support their community through their artistic talents.

Free to Public - Feb 24th, 10am-3pm
4369 E Village Pkwy in Gilbert (Trilogy at Power Ranch

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.

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

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