Home + Design

The Thankful Autumn Table

A local's guide to Festive Table Settings Article by Kristy Belley | Photography by Janie Jones Tablescape: Leaann Parker  As the scorching summer finally loosens its grip on our East Valley paradise, it's time to celebrate the subtle shift to our version of autumn. We might not have the dramatic leaf changes of the Northeast, but our Arizona fall has its own special charm. Let's explore how to bring a touch of seasonal magic to your table, Gilbert-style! Nature's Palette: Bringing...

Life + Culture

Giving Back Smiles

A heartfelt journey in Guatemala, providing essential dental care to children in need, creating lasting memories together. Article by Kylie Strawn-Badger | Photography by Dr. Joy Brauer Stepping out of the familiar comfort of Gilbert, Arizona, Dr. Joy Brauer embarked on a life-changing adventure with her three daughters—Lexi, Lily, and Juliana—into the heart of Guatemala. Their mission was to bring smiles and relief through volunteer dental care to children in desperate need, and they were...

Life + Culture

What Was Lost is Now Found

How Jesse and Josh Williams discover Kaleb and Eyasu Terefe Article by Robin Belley | Photography by Kabodi Abeyneh From time to time, stories take a life of their own. They clamor for your attention and demand to be told. The first part to this story was told in the fall of 2022. At the time, Jesse and Joshua Williams were heading out on Mission as many of the members of their church had done before – one towards Delaware, the other to Ethiopia on the East Coast of Africa. This, in itself...

Life + Culture

15th Annual Gratitude Gathering

A shining example of how a simple idea can transform into a powerful force for community Article by Kristy Belley | Photography by Sharon Kotsonas 15 Years of Gratitude: Gilbert's Interfaith Celebration For a decade and a half, our community has embraced a heartwarming tradition that brings people of diverse faiths together in a spirit of gratitude. What began as a modest interfaith Thanksgiving service in 2007 has blossomed into the beloved Gratitude Gathering, celebrating its 15th...

Life + Culture

Paws for Comfort : Pet Therapy

Furry friends offer solace and smiles, proving that in times of need, a wagging tail can heal hearts. Article by Gretchen Pahia | Photography by Hospice of the Valley Hospice of the Valley was the valley’s first hospice organization created in Arizona in 1977, and today, decades later, is still doing what they can to support residents across Arizona. As part of their mission, they care for all in need, no matter  the availability  of insurance or financial resources. This has been their motto...

Entertainment

Building Strong Communities

How Priscilla Ornelas is uniting women through Community Comadres to foster connection, empowerment, and meaningful change. Article by Kylie Strawn-Badger | Photography by Priscilla Ornelas Priscilla Ornelas founded Community Comadres from a deep personal passion for building the kind of community she wished her mother had. Growing up, Priscilla watched her mom work tirelessly, often without the support system that could have made life easier. This experience inspired her to create a space...

Life + Culture

Gilbert's Signature Sip

Crafted to Celebrate Gilbert: A Refreshing Toast to Five Years Article by Liquid Caters | Photography by Denise Karis Raise a glass to five incredible years with our signature cocktail, "The Water Tower." Crafted by Liquid Caterers, this refreshing blend of citrus and hibiscus perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Gilbert. Cheers!  Make plans to join us throughout October at special events around Gilbert to celebrate.  I am sure we will be serving 'The Water Tower' The Water Tower ...

Food + Beverage

Gilbert's Goddess Salad

Fresh, local ingredients in a vibrant, flavorful salad Article by Marissa Delgado | Photography by James Lee Media Gilbert’s rich agricultural history shines in the Gilbert Goddess Salad, crafted by Marissa Delgado with Arizona Homegrown Experience and a passion for fresh, local flavors. This vibrant dish features locally sourced ingredients, from crisp romaine lettuce and tangy cherry tomatoes to savory goat cheese. Topped with a zesty homemade dressing using Queen Creek Olive Mill olive oil...

Life + Culture

5 Years - Countless Memories - Our Half-Decade Highlights

Revisiting the most read stories from 2019-2024: The moments that shaped lifestyles and captured our hearts Article by Kristy Belley & Robin Belley Two Boys,  One Family – November 2022  This story is  so special to us. Our magazine has always been a way for our us to learn about our community and to try to bring neighbors closer together - this was as true after COVID as it is today. The series of fortuitous events that led to this story coming together just demonstrates how much a story...

Life + Culture

Spinato’s Pizzeria & Family Kitchen

A Legacy of Flavor, Family, and Community Article by Krista Carpenter-Beasley | Photography by Spinato's Family If you’ve lived in Arizona, chances are you’ve heard of Spinato’s Pizza. This beloved pizzeria has spent the past 50 years growing from its humble beginnings into a cherished local institution. What began as a small family-owned shop has flourished, largely due to word-of-mouth and an unwavering commitment to quality. Today, Spinato’s Pizzeria & Family Kitchen proudly serves guests...