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  • ☀️ New climate report shows impact 👩‍💼 Gilbert seeking volunteers 🎨 Creative Call: Arizona Dept. of Education Hosts Art Contest and more...

☀️ New climate report shows impact 👩‍💼 Gilbert seeking volunteers 🎨 Creative Call: Arizona Dept. of Education Hosts Art Contest and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #023

Author

Lloyd Heath
November 25, 2023

😈😈😈😈

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

 📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

☀️ New climate report shows impact of drying on human health in Southwest

🛣️ Heritage Trail near Elliot to Partially Close for Railroad Construction

 👩‍💼 Gilbert seeking volunteers for two town 'municipal property corporations'

 🎨 Creative Call: Arizona Dept. of Education Hosts Art Contest on Citizenship Theme

🤵‍♂️ Lessons from college days still guiding San Tan Ford's Tim Hovik

🍽️ Gilbert restaurant focuses on Thai cuisine and culture

 👩‍💻 East Valley Women’s League a year-round Santa

🎭 East Valley Pops Orchestra conductor marks 30 seasons

November 25th

November 27th

November 28th

Free Concert 7pm

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 322 N. Horne, Mesa

November 30th

December 2nd

December 8 - 19

New climate report shows impact of drying on human health in Southwest

The Southwest is facing an escalating water crisis, as detailed in a new federal climate report. This crisis, stemming from the enduring drying of the region, poses significant health risks. The phenomenon, termed 'aridification', is a lasting shift in water availability, transforming the landscape of the Colorado River basin, a crucial water source. The report outlines numerous health hazards due to climate change, including heat-related illnesses, respiratory problems from air pollution and wildfires, and mental health challenges following natural disasters. Particularly at risk are marginalized communities, including Native American tribes, who suffer disproportionately due to inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure. The report calls for greater emphasis on climate justice and better data for adapting to these changes. In response, regional policymakers are devising strategies to curb water usage, with significant policy updates expected by 2026.

Heritage Trail near Elliot to Partially Close for Railroad Construction

The Heritage Trail near Elliot in Gilbert, Arizona, is slated for partial closure due to railroad construction by Union Pacific Railroad. This construction involves replacing an existing timber deck bridge with a new steel structure. The first phase of this project is scheduled for early December, specifically starting on December 2 at 9:00 PM and ending on December 3 at 3:00 PM. During this time, the trail and levee road just south of Elliot and Lindsay Roads will be closed. The construction activities will occur mainly during evening and early morning hours to reduce the impact on railroad operations. Residents in the vicinity can expect to experience noise disturbances from the construction equipment and additional lighting for the crews. The Town of Gilbert will release more details about the second phase of the Union Pacific Railroad construction as soon as they become available​

Gilbert seeking volunteers for two town 'municipal property corporations'

Gilbert, Arizona, is inviting residents to volunteer for positions in two municipal property corporations, responsible for financing capital improvement projects. The openings include one in the Gilbert Public Facilities Municipal Property Corporation and two in the Water Resources Municipal Property Corporation. Ideal candidates should understand complex financial statements and work well with others. These unpaid positions require residents to be qualified electors within the town and typically involve a three-year term. Applications are accepted online, with a deadline of December 10, 2023. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the town's office

All applicants will be required to complete a one-way video interview to move forward in the selection process. 

Apply on-line for either position at https://commissions.gilbertaz.gov/apply/. There are several openings at this time. Applicants should be sure to select the correct application from the dropdown menu. 

Those applicants who would like to request a paper application should contact Judy Martinez at 480-503-6791 or [email protected]. 

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023. 

Additional information is available by calling the Clerk’s Office at 480-503-6791. 

Creative Call: Arizona Dept. of Education Hosts Art Contest on Citizenship Theme

Arizona's Department of Education is calling for student artists to join its statewide art competition celebrating citizenship, a core value in the widely recognized Character Counts program. Students from kindergarten to high school can participate by showcasing their artistic talents through drawings, paintings, and posters. The contest is divided into two categories: one for K-8 students who will create artwork symbolizing citizenship, and another for high school students who will design posters promoting character values on social media. The deadline for submissions is December 31. Winners will be honored at a special event in Phoenix in January. This contest offers a platform for students to creatively express important character values and contribute to character education in Arizona.

Lessons from college days still guiding San Tan Ford's Tim Hovik

Tim Hovik, the renowned owner of San Tan Ford in Gilbert and a notable figure in the automotive industry, shares his journey on the "Guiding Growth" podcast. Growing up in Everett, Washington, in a middle-class family, Hovik's early life was shaped by sports and a natural inclination towards leadership. His journey to ASU was influenced by family connections and a spontaneous decision to pursue a practical career path. Despite not completing his political science degree, Hovik ventured into the automotive industry, where he demonstrated resilience and ambition. Mentored by ASU instructor Ed Trexler, he learned valuable life lessons that have stayed with him throughout his career. Hovik’s achievements in the automotive industry and his associations with prominent sports teams and institutions underscore his commitment to excellence. His experiences, including interviewing Bill Ford, highlight his evolution from a young student to a respected industry leader, embodying the ethos of betting on oneself and striving for success.

Gilbert restaurant focuses on Thai cuisine and culture

At Cafe’ de Bangkok in Gilbert, Arizona, owners Tom Nithid Rochanakit and his wife, Amie, have created a culinary haven that transcends mere dining. For four years, this restaurant has been serving an array of authentic Thai dishes, each a testament to Rochanakit’s rich culinary heritage and meticulous attention to detail. The ambiance of the restaurant is a visual homage to Thai culture, featuring miniature porcelain toddlers in playful poses and Bai Sri, an ornamental paper plant symbolizing traditional Thai welcome ceremonies.

The restaurant's decor also includes masks from Thailand's classical dance drama, Khon, celebrating the country's artistic legacy. This commitment to authenticity and quality has earned Cafe’ de Bangkok the prestigious 2023 Thai Select award, recognizing excellence in Thai cuisine. Rochanakit's culinary journey, deeply influenced by his mother’s expertise in southern Thailand, is evident in every dish served.

With ambitions to make the restaurant a cultural epicenter in Phoenix, Rochanakit plans to continue hosting traditional Thai dance performances. He is also expanding his vision to include a tour company and offers private chef and Thai cooking lessons, passing on his expertise to enthusiasts. Located at 1111 N. Gilbert Rd., Cafe’ de Bangkok is more than a restaurant; it is a gateway to exploring the richness of Thai culture and cuisine.

East Valley Women’s League a year-round Santa

For over two decades, the East Valley Women’s League, a group of compassionate women from the East Valley, has been making a significant difference in their community. Founded by Tara Stainton and Tracy Worischeck, the league operates as a nonprofit, benefiting from the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Program. With a selective membership model, the league focuses on impactful and empathetic community service. Their achievements include raising $1.7 million and positively influencing over 40,000 lives.

Key initiatives include the Cinderella Affair, providing prom dresses to thousands of high school girls, and the SUITS program, which equips high school boys with complete suit sets. The league also awards scholarships to students in need, helping them pursue higher education. The KIT Program aids foster teens in transition, and support extends to pregnant high school students and their families. The league’s outreach to cancer patients and homebound women underscores their comprehensive approach to community service. With an array of activities and an upcoming cornhole tournament fundraiser, the East Valley Women’s League exemplifies the spirit of year-round giving and community support.

East Valley Pops Orchestra conductor marks 30 seasons

Julie Mahoney, a distinguished conductor, celebrates her 30th anniversary with the East Valley Pops Orchestra, which also marks its 41st year. The orchestra's new season begins with a free concert at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, Mesa. Mahoney, a former strings teacher in Mesa and a band and orchestra teacher in Omaha, has steered the orchestra through decades of growth and community impact.

The EVPO, primarily consisting of senior citizens, is deeply involved in supporting local music education programs. They perform a wide range of music, earning acclaim for their holiday concerts. The orchestra's members, including seasoned musicians and those reigniting their passion for music, value Mahoney's leadership for its blend of excellence, enjoyment, and dedication.

Mahoney's involvement in music extends beyond the EVPO; she is also a violist in the Chandler Symphony Orchestra and participates in diverse musical groups. Associate conductor Chris Perry highlights Mahoney's unique ability to connect with both musicians and audiences, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. For Mahoney, the orchestra has been more than just a professional commitment; it has been a source of personal strength and joy, especially in her journey through widowhood. Her philosophy that once a musician, always a musician, resonates with the EVPO members, who share a deep love for music.

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