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  • 📅 Arizona Presidential Primary Registration Deadline Approaches 🚨 Gilbert Feb 13 Weekly Crime Report 🌿 Gilbert's Riparian Preserve to Host Exciting Free Outdoors Expo and more...

📅 Arizona Presidential Primary Registration Deadline Approaches 🚨 Gilbert Feb 13 Weekly Crime Report 🌿 Gilbert's Riparian Preserve to Host Exciting Free Outdoors Expo and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #086

Author

Lloyd Heath
February 14, 2024

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

📅 Arizona Presidential Primary Registration Deadline Approaches

🚨 Gilbert Feb 13 Weekly Crime Report: 197 Incidents and 19 Crime Stories

🎭 Calling All Performers: Gilbert Theater Opens Auditions for New Season

🎶 Mesa, Gilbert public school students to experience East Valley Pops

🛑 Republican lawmakers attempt to quash intercity rail concept

🌿 Gilbert's Riparian Preserve to Host Exciting Free Outdoors Expo

🥫 Feeding Families in Need: Gilbert's Annual Food Drive Begins

🚶‍♂️ We Can. I Can. San Tan Cancer Walk 2024 rescheduled for Feb. 17 in Queen Creek

Upcoming and Ongoing

Arizona Presidential Primary Registration Deadline Approaches

In Arizona, the deadline is swiftly approaching for voters to register or update their party affiliation in time for the upcoming Presidential Preference Election (PPE) scheduled for March 19. This crucial step, required by Tuesday, February 20, determines eligibility for participation in Arizona's presidential primary, distinct from the state's general primary elections held in July. Specifically designed for the Democratic and Republican parties, the PPE excludes independents and members of other parties unless they opt to change their registration to one of the two major parties through ServiceArizona.com.

The process for this election includes the distribution of ballots to those on the Active Early Voting List and others who have requested an early ballot, starting February 21, coinciding with the commencement of in-person early voting. Republican ballots will feature nine candidates, while Democrats will see seven, including some who have withdrawn from the race but remain on the ballot. For early voting details and locations, Maricopa County residents can visit Locations.Maricopa.Vote, with others advised to reach out to their local recorder's offices.

Important deadlines loom for early voting as well: March 8 marks the last day to request an early ballot, and March 12 is the final day recommended for mailing completed ballots to ensure they arrive by the 7 p.m. closure of polls on Election Day

Gilbert Feb 13 Weekly Crime Report: 197 Incidents and 19 Crime Stories

Last week, Gilbert experienced a notable amount of criminal activity, with a reported total of 197 incidents. The predominant crime was theft, accounting for 54 of these cases, underscoring a significant concern for property safety in the community. Assaults followed closely, with 40 reported instances, highlighting a disturbing level of violence within the town. Additionally, the category of "Suspicious Situation" saw 37 cases, suggesting a high level of vigilance among residents and law enforcement alike.

Other criminal activities, including disturbance, vandalism, arguments, arrests, and trespassing, were reported but to a lesser extent, cumulatively making up 29 cases. This variety of lesser crimes contributes to the overall complexity of the town's public safety challenges.

Particularly alarming, though less frequent, were the reports of a shooting and a burglary. Each of these incidents occurred only once but represents significant safety concerns due to their potential for harm and the fear they instill in the community.

These statistics underscore the critical need for enhanced security measures in Gilbert. They also emphasize the importance of community vigilance, where residents and authorities work together to address and mitigate crime, ensuring the safety and well-being of all community members.

Incidents

Last Week

Theft

54

Assault

40

Suspicious Situation

37

Other

34

Disturbance

10

Vandalism

9

Argument

4

Arrest

4

Trespass

2

Shooting

1

Calling All Performers: Gilbert Theater Opens Auditions for New Season

Limelight Performing Arts in Gilbert is gearing up for a dynamic theatrical season, announcing auditions for two captivating youth musicals and an intriguing non-musical play for adults and teens aged 13 and above. Aspiring performers have the option to audition either through video submission or in person at the intimate setting of Limelight's black-box theater located at 511 W. Guadalupe Road.

Kicking off the lineup is "Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical," marking Arizona's premiere of the musical adaptation of Jeff Kinney's acclaimed book series. The production promises to bring the humorous and touching tales of Greg Heffley's middle-school years to the stage, complete with engaging music and vibrant choreography. Open to children and teenagers aged 6-19, auditions for this much-anticipated musical are set for the evening of February 14, with performances slated from April 5-14, and a potential extension to April 20.

Following this, "Six: Teen Edition" brings the historical intrigue of Henry VIII's six wives to the stage with a contemporary pop twist. This unique musical, also a first for Arizona, will be triple-cast to accommodate a wide range of young talent. Auditions for this global sensation are due by February 14, with callbacks arranged for the following weekend. The show runs from May 3-19, offering a fresh take on a historical narrative.

Lastly, "Clue On Stage" introduces Limelight's first production aimed at an adult audience, inviting teens and adults alike to audition. This theatrical version of the beloved board game transforms into a live-action mystery, encouraging audiences to deduce the culprit amongst the iconic ensemble of characters. Auditions are on February 17, with callbacks the following day, and performances coinciding with "Six" from May 3-19.

Interested individuals are encouraged to visit ll-pa.org/auditions for audition details and video submission guidelines, ensuring a spot in what promises to be a season of memorable performances at Limelight Performing Arts.

Mesa, Gilbert public school students to experience East Valley Pops

The Mesa and Gilbert public schools are in for a treat, as the East Valley Pops Orchestra (EVPO) is set to deliver not only captivating musical performances but also a generous financial boost to their music education programs. On March 1, students from fifth and sixth grades across eight Gilbert Public elementary schools will be hosted at Gilbert High School to enjoy a performance by the EVPO, a 75-member ensemble that has been delighting audiences for over 40 years.

Just a few days later, on March 4, more than 400 sixth-grade music students from ten Mesa public schools will gather at Kino Junior High for another exclusive EVPO concert. These events are more than just concerts; they are opportunities for the orchestra to contribute thousands of dollars to the schools' music programs, funds that have been gathered through the orchestra's philanthropic endeavors.

Julie Mahoney, who has directed the EVPO for 30 years following her retirement as a Mesa public school teacher, emphasizes that these concerts aim to entertain, engage, and most importantly, inspire the young attendees. Mahoney highlights how these events broaden students' understanding of orchestral music, introducing them to the full range of instruments beyond the familiar strings to include wind and brass instruments they may never have seen or heard before, such as the oboe or bassoon.

The concerts also leave a lasting impression on the students, with teachers like Christa Cook from Jefferson Elementary School in Mesa recalling the excitement and lasting impact of last year's performance on her students, for many of whom it was their first live orchestra experience.

Gilbert Elementary public schools attending the March 1 concert: Boulder Creek, Burk, Harris, Islands, Playa del Ray, Gilbert, Oak Tree and Pioneer.

Mesa elementary public schools attending the March 4 concert: Adams, Guerrero, Lehi, Lindbergh, Kerr, Porter, Redbird, Roosevelt, Whitman and Whittier.

Republican lawmakers attempt to quash intercity rail concept

In a significant move that could reshape Arizona's transportation landscape, Republican lawmakers are pushing to permanently eliminate the possibility of establishing an intercity rail system. This effort is part of a broader strategy that involves attaching a series of restrictive conditions to the continuation of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). These conditions, aimed at maintaining the status quo in transportation priorities, include prohibiting ADOT from accepting federal funds for commuter rail operations, proposing carbon reduction plans, building electric vehicle charging stations, reducing road lanes, and adopting vehicle travel reduction strategies.

The push to halt the development of a commuter rail system between Phoenix and Tucson has become a contentious issue, with proponents arguing it's a step back in technological innovation and a misallocation of resources. Critics, led by Sen. Jake Hoffman, argue that the project lacks public support, would undermine goods transportation, and fail to attract sufficient ridership, citing the underperformance of existing light rail systems as evidence.

However, this stance faces opposition from those who see intercity rail as a valuable addition to Arizona's transportation infrastructure, potentially offering an efficient alternative to road travel and supporting environmental goals. The debate has escalated to a political standoff, with Governor Katie Hobbs and her administration advocating for a more balanced approach to transportation planning that includes exploring rail options. Gov. Hobbs' office has criticized the politicization of ADOT's reauthorization, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a functional and forward-looking transportation agency.

The situation is further complicated by recent developments, including a federal grant awarded to ADOT to study the feasibility of reintroducing Amtrak service between Phoenix and Tucson, a route discontinued in 1996. This study, and the broader discussion around transportation priorities in Arizona, highlights the tension between differing visions for the state's future infrastructure and the challenge of balancing innovation with tradition in public policy.

Gilbert's Riparian Preserve to Host Exciting Free Outdoors Expo

Riparian Preserve | February 24, 2024 | 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

The Gilbert Outdoors Expo, set against the scenic backdrop of the Riparian Preserve, invites enthusiasts and families alike for a weekend brimming with outdoor activities. This free event is a perfect opportunity for attendees to delve into a variety of outdoor pursuits, whether it's honing their fishing techniques, getting up close with wildlife, conquering the rock wall, or engaging in numerous other adventures. It's an all-ages event designed to entertain, educate, and inspire a love for the great outdoors.

However, visitors should be aware that the Riparian Preserve's parking lot will be closed from 4 AM on February 23rd until 5 PM on February 24th. During this period, parking within the lot will be unavailable, and attendees are advised to consider alternative parking arrangements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the expo.

Feeding Families in Need: Gilbert's Annual Food Drive Begins

The town of Gilbert is calling on its community members to lend a hand in replenishing the supplies of local food pantries, which have seen a significant increase in demand following the holiday season. The annual community-wide food drive, running from February 12th to 25th, aims to gather support to feed families in need throughout Gilbert.

Residents can contribute to this cause by dropping off food donations at various designated locations across the town. Additionally, those who prefer to provide financial support can make cash donations directly to a local food bank. Remarkably, a contribution of just $1 has the power to provide up to five meals or equate to $30 worth of food, underscoring the significant impact each donation can have.

We Can. I Can. San Tan Cancer Walk 2024 rescheduled for Feb. 17 in Queen Creek

The San Tan Cancer Walk 2024, organized to rally the community against cancer, has been rescheduled due to bad weather and will now take place on February 17, from 9 a.m. to noon at San Tan Heights Elementary School in Queen Creek. This event, supported by the American Cancer Society of Phoenix, aims to unite individuals with a common goal: the eradication of cancer. It's an opportunity to celebrate survivors, honor the memory of those lost to the disease, and raise vital funds for ongoing cancer research and support services. Participants are encouraged to join this cause and contribute by visiting the donation website provided by the American Cancer Society of Phoenix.

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