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Radiant Smile
Thankful for this season!
As November arrives, I find myself feeling an extra sense of gratitude for the cooler weather that finally reaches us here in Arizona. It's a time when we can comfortably gather outdoors, enjoy walks in the crisp air, and spend quality time with those we cherish. Thanksgiving is a wonderful reminder of the value of connection, family, and the community we share.
This year, I am especially thankful for the support of family and friends, the strength of our community, and the simple joys that make life special—like our monthly happy hours, where we can come together, laugh, and celebrate one another. I’m grateful to be surrounded by people who lift each other up, share in each other’s successes, and help make our neighborhood such a wonderful place to call home.
In this thankful issue, we have so many fun and inspiring stories that reflect the warmth of the season. You’ll find beautiful autumn table decor ideas to bring festive touches to your celebrations, a heartfelt full-circle family moment that embodies the spirit of gratitude, and an article about pet therapy that’s guaranteed to bring a smile—especially with the sweet photos accompanying it.
We’re also highlighting Dr. Joy Brauer’s incredible journey to Guatemala, where she gave back by providing dental services to those in need. And don't miss the feature on our community’s 15th annual Gratitude Gathering, a tradition that always brings us closer together, celebrating the acts of kindness that make this area so special.
I hope this issue inspires you to cherish the little moments that fill your lives with joy. Let us embrace the cool weather and the warmth of being together. From my family to yours, I wish you a season filled with thankfulness and love.
Kabodi Abeyneh, Dr. Joy Brauer, Janie Jones, Sharon Kotsonas, Hospice of the Valley, Priscilla Ornelas
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Paws for Comfort : Pet Therapy
Furry
How
HOPE IS
Over 19,000 successful stem cell transplants.
business monthly
Randy’s Donuts Opens Gilbert Location
Randy’s Donuts, the most iconic and recognized donut shop in the world opened a new East Valley location. The new store is located at 4935 S. Val Vista Dr., Ste. 105 in Gilbert. Many Arizonans are familiar with the brand from their travels to Southern California. Local entrepreneurs Brian Padilla, Richard Suzuki and Carlos Munoz have plans to open multiple franchised locations in the state of Arizona,
Scan to read more
Sprouts Farmers Market Relocates Mesa Store to Gilbert
On October 4, Sprouts Farmers Market celebrated the relocation of its Mesa store from Southern Avenue to 1668 N. Higley Road in Gilbert, with grand opening festivities that happened all weekend long. The celebration featured family-friendly activities, including a pop-up party, free goodie bags for the first 100 shoppers, and a Vendor Village showcasing innovative brands. Customers were able to enjoy discounts via the Sprouts app and enter to win a $500 gift card. The new store is now open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
1000+ Gallons of Milk Donated to Arizona Food Banks
More than 1,000 gallons of milk have been donated to Arizona Food Banks, purchased with the proceeds donated to Arizona Milk Producers from a month long campaign by Cold Beers Cares. A month long campaign at all 17 locations of Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers featured “La Piña Colada” Milkshake. Over 2,400 milkshakes were sold, Cold Beers Cares donated $2,500 with an additional $1,000 matched by the Dairy Council with a check presentation last Thursday.
Photography by Fleur Group
Photography by Randy’s Donuts
Famous 66 Now Open for Breakfast on the Weekends
Famous 66, American Tavern, is the location in Gilbert for catching all the sports action in comfort this fall, now open EARLY on Saturday and Sunday. Fall is our favorite time of year in the valley, and they're providing some amazing deals from their scratch kitchen to enhance the season even more. Famous 66’s new breakfast menu is available this fall every weekend from 9am – 12pm.
Scan to read more
Photography by Fleur group
ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOSPICE OF THE VALLEY
Pet Therapy Paws for Comfort :
FURRY FRIENDS OFFER SOLACE AND SMILES, PROVING THAT IN TIMES OF NEED, A WAGGING TAIL CAN HEAL HEARTS.
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 since their inception, providing unique in-home supportive care to those who need it.
One of the special touches that sets Hospice of the Valley apart is their pet program. The volunteer program that was started in 2006 serves their patients, families, and staff with cheer-filled visits from registered therapy animals. “These visits bring joy and comfort to our patients, reducing stress and anxiety, distracting from pain, and bringing back happy memories,” shares Stacia Ortega, Director of Volunteers at Hospice of the Valley. Adding that for family members, the visits are a soothing break for a difficult day and an opportunity to see their loved ones really enjoying a happy interaction. There is no charge for the pet visits, and they take place in a variety of spots, including the patient’s homes, in-patient units, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living centers, group homes, Ryan House, and Dementia Care and Education Campus for Hospice of the Valley.
You may be wondering why pets for hospice patients and their families, but the reason is straightforward and simple. “Pets bring such joy to our patients and their families because they are there just to provide comfort and joy. Pets do not see illness; they just want to connect and provide love,” says Ortega. “Our smaller dogs can get into bed or on a lap of a patient, and that is often missing for people who are sick.”
Pet Therapy Coordinator Carol Keenan shares this program is such a great addition to the success of Hospice of the Valley. “Every day we have the CONTINUED >
opportunity to change lives, and that’s what our pet therapy teams do. They change our patients’ and families’ lives for the better.”
The organization is very hopeful that in the months and years ahead, the volunteer pet program will continue to grow and prosper to help support the needs of their patients and families. Ortega says, “It is our hope and goal to grow our program so that every patient and family who wants a visit is able to receive one. We are always thrilled to accept more pet therapy animals as well, including dogs, cats, bunnies, and mini horses, and to connect interested pet owners with programs that certify pet therapy animals. Once certified, Hospice of the Valley will train the pet owners as volunteers and match the pet team with people in need of a cheery visit.”
Hospice of the Valley is always seeking additional support as well. “We support the pet therapy program as part of a commitment to nurture the emotional and spiritual well-being of patients, families, and staff. We are grateful for donations from our community that help encourage and support our pet therapy teams to give of their time and compassion,” says Flood.
Currently, volunteers work directly with patients and families by reading, bringing those care pets to brighten someone’s day, or even sharing music therapy to create a calming environment. Flood says, “When our volunteers make home visits, they provide companionship to our patients and a much-needed break for family caregivers.”
If you would like more information on Hospice of the Valley, or to learn more about volunteering or making a donation, call 602530-6992 or visit hov.org//donate
W H AT WASLOST ISNOWFOU
ARTICLE BY ROBIN BELLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KABODI ABEYNEH
HOW JESSE AND JOSH WILLIAMS MET
KALEB AND EYASU TEREFE
“It is a lot, all at once!”
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, is not out of the ordinary for Gilbert families as many of them have travelled south of the border to help other families by building homes, or help with safe potable water projects, or assist communities to become self-sufficient by helping to grow their own food. What made this story so very special is that Jesse and Josh were born in Ethiopia, but grew up in Gilbert. One of them was going home!
So here we are, two years later, Jesse and Josh are back and the story has become even more incredible than how it came to our attention. From running into an old friend after COVID and realizing that, nearly thirty years ago, he had served in a Bolivian village neighboring one where a member of my family was serving at the time to learning about the Williams and the story of how Jesse and Josh grew up in Gilbert and were heading out to serve.
The number of incredible coincidences, near misses, and amazing twist of faith make this story so unbelievable that one would not be surprise to see it turned in to a movie.
This particular story is about two mothers, two sisters really: Bizumesh in Ethiopia and Jaime in Arizona. One, a
“Having that love and that connection was just the most incredible experience of our lives.”
young mother having to face a horrible decision twenty years ago; the other answering a call to reach out and make a lifetime commitment.
When Kaleb and Eyasu Terefe were born, only one child was expected by their parents. The birth having been difficult, Bizumesh soon became ill and was unable to tend to her newly born twins. With limited resources in a country faced with food insecurity, few medical resources already strained by epidemics, and an uncertain political future as Ethiopia was trying to rebuild after years of droughts and civil war, Bizumesh and her husband Terefe decided to place the children for adoption.
On the other side of the world, another young mother became aware of the conditions in Ethiopia and was Immediately moved to reach out and help the best way she could. With the support of her husband Tarik, they sought information about helping some of the children by seeking to adopt. As anyone who has gone through the adoption process can relate, weeks and months went by filling out forms, navigating administrative labyrinths, and undergoing evaluations until, eventually, the call came and they made their way to Ethiopia where they met Jesse and Joshua.
As part of the adoption conditions, the Williams faithfully reported every year to the Ethiopian agency as the boys grew and provided pictures that would have been shared with Bizumesh and
her husband. Unfortunately, the agency folded after ten years of operation, leaving the Ethiopian family without any words as to the location of Kaleb and Eyasu. Following years of research, one of the family members, a cousin, turned to social media in the hope of learning the fate of their family members. Posting some of the old pictures they had received before the agency closed, they posted and re-posted all they could find on Facebook, not knowing if they would ever know.
This is how, a year ago and in a country of 132 million inhabitants, one person recognized Joshua while he was on Mission and shared the link to the original post. This is how, Jesse and Joshua William, Kaleb and Eyasu Terefe were finally found. What followed was the incredible journey of the two young men and their American parents to reconnect with their now extended family in Ethiopia. Finding a community that welcomed them with open arms, a new mother, a new father, an older brother - Mullet, an older sister Hamame, and four other younger siblings: Mezkerem, Mulatu, Tenaye, and Tariku.
Needless to say, and as Jesse puts it," this was a lot, all at once". The Williams are now back in Arizona, Jesse and Josh attending ASU this fall. As Jesse and Josh navigate their college years, they do so with a profound sense of their unique journey and the two families that shape their identity.
A gift of honey from Bizunesh
The Williams family's journey continues to unfold, bridging two worlds and two families across continents. Jamie and Tarik Williams have embraced their expanded family wholeheartedly, organizing video calls to keep everyone connected. They're planning a trip to Ethiopia next summer, this time bringing their other children to meet their extended family. Meanwhile, Bizumesh and Terefe are working with local officials to obtain passports, hoping to visit Gilbert and see where their sons grew up.
The story of the Williams family has sparked conversations in both communities about adoption, cultural identity, and the power of perseverance. As their story continues, it is a testament to the enduring bonds of family, the surprises life can bring, and the healing power of reconnection.
A Joyful Homecoming in Gimbichu: Bridging Continents and Cultures
The small village where Caleb and Eyasu were born is located in the Gimbichu district, south of the capital Addis Ababa. Only a short 13 hours flight from the United States and an 8 hours drive through dirt roads. As Jesse would put it: only a two day ride from our capital. The whole town came out to celebrate and welcome the two young men and the parents back into their new extended family. Gifts of milk and honey were exchanged, new friendships were forged.
The Williams family was honored with a special naming ceremony, where they received Ethiopian names chosen by the village elders. This symbolic gesture represented the blending of their American and Ethiopian identities.
THE THANKFUL
TABLE Autumn
A LOCAL'S GUIDE TO FESTIVE TABLE SETTINGS
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
BY JANIE JONES
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!
PHOTOGRAPHY
NATURE’S PALETTE:
BRINGING GILBERT’S OUTDOORS IN
You might be thinking, “What fall touches can I possibly find in Gilbert?” Trust me, our town has more to offer than you might realize! Take a leisurely stroll through Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch or wander around your neighborhood. You’ll be surprised at the treasures you can collect to adorn your table.
DESERT-INSPIRED CENTERPIECES:
1. Palo Verde Pods: These golden pods from our state tree make for beautiful, uniquely Arizonan decorations. Gather a handful and arrange them in a clear glass vase or scatter them along your table runner.
2. Cotton Bolls: With Gilbert’s agricultural heritage, incorporating cotton bolls into your decor is a nod to our local history. You can often find these at local craft stores if you can’t get them fresh from a nearby farm.
3. Sonoran Succulents: Small potted succulents make for perfect, low-maintenance centerpieces. Bonus: your guests can take them home as favors!
PERSONAL TOUCHES:
GILBERT-THEMED PLACE CARDS
Add a heartfelt, artisanal touch to your table with handmade agave fiber paper place cards:
1. Purchase or make agave fiber paper for an authentic Southwestern feel
You’ll be surprised at the treasures you can collect to adorn your table.
2. Cut the paper into small rectangles for place cards.
3. Use a fine-tipped marker in earthy tones to write guest names
4. Add a small illustration of a local landmark like the water tower or the grain silos for extra Gilbert flair.
Tablescape: Leaann Parker
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,
"Seeing the gratitude in the eyes of these children was a reminder of why we were there—why we left the comforts of home and came to serve."
and they were deeply thankful for the opportunity to make a positive impact.
The journey began with a small team: five dedicated dentists, two dental hygienists, and seven laypeople, all gathered in the charming city of Antigua, Guatemala. The volunteer trip was organized by Global Dental Relief, which provides free dental care to children around the globe. After two days of preparation, they traveled to San Miguel, a humble town in the southeast. There, they transformed a community center into an impromptu dental clinic. With sterilized instruments and water provided by the local fire department, the team got to work.
Children from nearby schools were bused in to receive dental treatment—many for the first time.
"Seeing the gratitude in the eyes of these children was a reminder of why we were there—why we left
the comforts of home and came to serve," Dr. Brauer said. "We are so thankful for this opportunity to give back." The patience and cooperation of these children were astounding, given the anxiety that often comes with dental visits. The team provided silver fillings, extractions, sealants, and cleanings, all without the luxury of modern comforts. They felt incredibly thankful to be able to provide care to those who might not otherwise have access to it.
One poignant moment came when Dr. Brauer mentioned to a group leader her surprise at the children's cooperation. The leader responded, "The only other option for dental care is to have a tooth taken out by a relative in their backyard without anesthetic." This stark reality deepened their sense of purpose.
The days were long, yet the rewards were immeasurable. Dr. Brauer was thankful for the incredible
team effort. She worried if Juliana, only 13, could work those long hours, but she did amazingly well. The girls rotated through layperson roles: dental assistant, fluoride applicator, and translator. Lexi, the oldest, ended up being a fantastic asset as a translator, using her Spanish skills. Lily was always a great team player, willing to fill in wherever needed.
By the end of the week, the team treated 595 patients, delivering $157,745 worth of dental care in five days. Reflecting on the week’s success, Dr. Brauer thought, "Not a bad way to make an impact."
It wasn’t all work. At the end of the mission, they headed back to Antigua for a thrilling day of zip-lining. Not a fan of heights, Dr. Brauer opted to hike Pacaya Volcano instead—a rare moment of peace after bustling days. She was thankful for the opportunity to experience Guatemala's beauty with her daughters.
As they boarded their flight back to Arizona, Dr. Brauer reflected on what she hoped her daughters would take away from the adventure. She wanted them to understand how blessed they were to live in a country with abundant opportunities. She hoped they saw the power of giving back, of making a real difference in the lives of others. Most of all, she hoped they had created memories that would forever be etched in their hearts, just as they were in hers.
While Dr. Joy Brauer's commitment to serving communities abroad is admirable, she remains dedicated to caring for smiles closer to home at her practice Joyful Smiles by Dr. Joy Brauer, a division of Seville Family Dentistry. Her experiences abroad have only deepened her passion for providing excellent dental care to patients of all ages in Gilbert.
ILDINGSTRONG COMMUNIT
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 where women could connect, feel seen, supported, and empowered—building the community her mother never had.
Priscilla, a Gilbert resident and mom of two, is also a well-known radio personality and philanthropist. She hosts MIX 96.9’s morning show, Priscilla and Joey, where her infectious energy brightens listeners’ mornings. Beyond her career in radio, Priscilla dedicates herself to giving back. Recently, she celebrated one year as the founder of Community Comadres, a local nonprofit providing volunteer, professional, and personal development opportunities for women. Just this past weekend, Community Comadres organized a back-toschool event, providing 100 free haircuts for children. On top of that, Priscilla launched Amor
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
I E S
Amigas—a social networking group aimed at fostering friendships among women.
The journey to start Community Comadres began when Priscilla realized that many of her friends were interested in giving back to underserved communities, but also craved a way to build deeper connections and a sense of sisterhood. The goal was to create a platform that made a difference in the community and fostered bonds between like-minded women. Priscilla saw an opportunity to create long-lasting relationships while uplifting those in need.
Community Comadres became a space for women to connect on a deeper level, share resources, and empower each other. For Priscilla, the essence of this project lies in the belief that when women come together, they can make an impactful difference, both in their own lives and for others. As Priscilla explains, “I wanted to create a platform where women could connect on a deeper level, share resources, and empower each other to make a difference.”
The impact of Community Comadres is about more than charity; it’s about fostering belonging and strengthening bonds within the community. Priscilla is dedicated to ensuring that every woman has the opportunity to thrive and feels supported. Together, they are creating a stronger, more connected environment where every woman is valued.
Priscilla is incredibly thankful for the support the community has shown. She feels blessed to be surrounded by inspiring women willing to share their time, energy, and passion for making a difference. Their dedication has been instrumental in turning her vision into reality, and Priscilla couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve accomplished together.
To learn more, visit communitycomadres. org and follow Priscilla on Instagram @priscillaonair
MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT
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ARTICLE BY AIMEE KELLER & SHARON KOTSONAS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOR OUR TOWN GILBERT
15th Annual Gratitude Gathering
A shining example of how a simple idea can transform into a powerful force for community
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 anniversary this year. The brainchild of Mark Brinton, inspired by a similar event in Tempe, the first Gilbert Interfaith Thanksgiving Service took root at The Gilbert Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Over the years, the event found homes in various churches, including St. Anne's Catholic Parish and First United Methodist Church, each adding their unique touch to the growing tradition.
Despite a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, the community's desire for connection prevailed. In 2022, a dedicated team including Gayle Disch, Linda Hartman, Sharon Kotsonas, and Aimee Keller revived the cherished gathering. The following year saw unprecedented growth, with over 275 attendees from more than 10 churches, necessitating a move to the spacious ALA Gilbert North campus. 2023 marked a significant evolution as For Our City Chandler and For Our Town Gilbert joined forces to co-host the event, expanding its reach and impact. These civic groups, comprising churches, non-profits, businesses, schools, and local governments, exemplify the collaborative spirit at the heart of the Gratitude Gathering.
Now known as the Gratitude Gathering, the event's mission remains steadfast: "to promote understanding and respect among people of diverse faith through service, dialogue, music and the implementation of the Golden Rule." As it enters its 15th year, the gathering continues to open hearts and bring the community together, a testament to the enduring power of gratitude and unity.
Join Us for This Year's Gratitude Gathering!
We invite you to be part of this cherished Gilbert holiday tradition! The Gratitude Gathering is a safe space where unity and respect exist for all diverse faiths and cultures participating in our program.
EVENT DETAILS:
• Date: Sunday, November 10th, 2024
• Time: 7:00 pm
• Location: American Leadership Academy North Gilbert, 1070 S Higley Rd Gilbert AZ 85296
• Theme: "United in Gratitude"
Bring a friend and experience the warmth of community as we come together to celebrate our shared gratitude. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a cherished tradition, the Gratitude Gathering stands as a shining example of how a simple idea can transform into a powerful force for community cohesion and understanding. We look forward to seeing you there!
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack to share.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
loaded hummus
This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
hummus ingredients:
• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
toppings:
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Chickpeas
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Fresh Parsley
directions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread Hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions:
Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
BEAUTY WITH A LOCAL TOUCH
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events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
EVERY SATURDAY
Gilbert Farmers Market
222 N. Ash St. Gilbert | 7:00 AM
Gilbert Farmers Market (GFM) is located in Downtown Gilbert just west of the iconic Water Tower and is open every Saturday. With over 100 vendors year-round, the market features local, chemical-free, organic produce from many local farmers, farm fresh eggs, meat, cheese, bread, sweets, coffee & tea, sauces, seasonings and many other locally made artisan products.
NOVEMBER 1ST, 8TH, & 15TH
Gilbert Cinemas:
Movies in the Park
Gilbert Regional Park | 3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert | 6:30 PM
Grab your picnic blanket and head to the park! Enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars. Don’t forget the popcorn! Family Friendly films shown from 6:30pm - 9:00pm.
NOVEMBER 2ND - 3RD
Made For Mama Market
Gilbert Regional Park | 3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert | 9:00 AM
The Made for Mama Market and Expo will have 150 local vendors, food trucks, free activities, and more! Whether you’re a seasoned Made with Lover or new to supporting local vendors, this market is the perfect chance to meet and support inspiring small business owners from our community. Let’s come together, celebrate the heart and soul of Gilbert’s small businesses.
NOVEMBER 5TH
Famous 66 Car Show
Famous 66 | 1026 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert | 5:00 PM
No frills, no fuss – just pure passion for cars. Whether you're a proud owner or an admirer, come experience the community's finest on display. Remember, space is prime real estate, so roll in early to secure your spot! With limited availability, it's first come, first showcase.
NOVEMBER 10TH
15th Annual
Gratitude Gathering
ALA North - 1070 S. Higley Road, Gilbert | 7:00 PM
The mission of Gilbert’s Interfaith Thanksgiving Service - now called the Gratitude Gathering is to “promote understanding and respect among people of diverse faith through service, dialogue, music and the implementation of the Golden Rule.” Invite a friend and come be part of this Gilbert holiday tradition! The Gratitude Gathering is a safe space where unity and respect exist for all.
NOVEMBER 13TH
Farm Night
West side of Barnone at Agritopia 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert | 5:00 PM
Agritopia Farm Night connects urban dwellers with our Certified Organic produce, offering a beautiful space where people can learn, share, and build community through good food and local vendors. Similar to a traditional farmers market with a unique night time feel.
Reserve your 2025 event time NOW
Fun, Flavor, Flair, Local
Arizona Homegrown is a chef driven culinary experience. No matter your event needs large or small, we partner with the best local farms, vendors & event producers to provide you with a truly unique experience. At Arizona Homegrown, each and every menu is carefully curated by our award-winning culinary team! From intimate private dinners, trendsetting weddings, team building culinary classes or that one of a kind corporate event; we are here for all of life’s culinary delights!
Let us help you create the perfect culinary experience! Arizona’s premier catering and private chef services!
Tribute to the Music of Alan Jackson and George Strait and More
Hale Theatre | 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert
Saddle up into a night of pure country bliss with our Alan Jackson & George Strait Tribute Concert. We’ll be paying homage to two of country music’s most legendary icons!. From Alan Jackson’s heartfelt ballads like “Remember When” to George Strait’s honky-tonk classics such as “Amarillo by Morning,” we’ll transport you to the heart of Nashville with authentic renditions of these beloved songs.
NOVEMBER 15TH - 17TH
Vintage & Vino's 10th Anniversary Market
Horseshoe Park & Equestrian Centre | 20490 E Riggs Rd, Queen Creek
Over 100 vendors, crafts, classes, music, wine, food, drinks and the famous bucket mimosas. The event features a unique blend of holiday gifts, and experiences such as tattoos, charm/ hat bar, permanent jewelry, photos, music, crafts and fun. Explore a variety of vendors offering one-of-a-kind items while enjoying a glass of vino in a charming atmosphere.
NOVEMBER 22ND & 23RD
2024 Gilbert Days Festival
Gilbert Regional Park | 3005 E. Queen Creek Road, Gilbert | 4:00 PM
Support local businesses and shop small during the festival. Don't forget to check out our family fun area, featuring 10+ inflatables and backyard games at no additional charge. All activities inside the event are FREE! The 2024 festival will take place from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Friday, November 22nd and Saturday, November 23rd.
NOVEMBER 23RD
Gibert Days Parade
Heritage District, Gilbert | 8:30 AM
Join our neighbors this year for the annual Gilbert Days Parade. We are excited to share with the community over 75 amazing floats and parade entries for this year's event. Bring your family and friends to this nostalgic event that originated over 40 years ago to celebrate the paving of Gilbert Road. We invite you to make this a family tradition..
NOVEMBER 29TH - DECEMBER 24TH
A Christmas Carol
Hale Theatre | 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert
At the Hale Theater, A Christmas Carol continues its cherished tradition of enchanting audiences with the timeless tale of redemption and compassion. Join us once again as we bring to life Charles Dickens’ classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man whose heart is transformed by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come.
DATE: TBD: CHECK TOWN SITE
Water Tower
Holiday Lighting
Water Tower Plaza | 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM | Heritage District, Gilbert
Immerse yourself in the festive cheer at Gilbert’s annual Water Tower Holiday Lighting at the Water Tower Plaza. This year’s celebration will feature the special unveiling of the new Water Tower Plaza. www.gilbertaz.gov
Kohler Bathroom Design
Want to be featured? GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/GILBERT
Partner with the KOHLER® Signature Store design consultants to find innovative products, colors, materials, and finishes to bring your design dreams to life.
THE PERFECT FALL TREAT
ACORN DONUT HOLES
ARTICLE BY MADELINE LEBLANC
As the vibrant colors of summer slowly yield to the warm and earthy hues of autumn, there’s a distinct charm in the air at the arrival of fall. It’s a season filled with the crisp rustling of leaves, cozy sweaters, and the promise of pumpkin-spiced everything. What better way to embrace the changing seasons than by indulging in a delightful treat that captures the essence of both summer’s sweetness and fall’s rich flavors?
My recipe for “Acorn Donut Holes” combines the light, airy sweetness of summer donuts with the warm, comforting tones of fall. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
• Donut holes
• Melting chocolates
• Fall sprinkles
• Pretzels
Instructions:
1. Pour your fall sprinkles into a small bowl for dipping. Lay wax paper down.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the melting chocolates in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. Carefully watch to ensure they don’t burn.
3. Dip the top of each donut hole into the melted chocolate, covering about halfway down the donut.
4. After dipping, immediately dip the chocolate-covered portion of the donut hole into the bowl of sprinkles, coating it with the fall sprinkles.
5. Insert a pretzel into the top of the “acorn” to create the acorn stem.
6. Carefully place the decorated acorn donut holes on the wax paper to let them cool and allow the chocolate to set.
7. Once the chocolate has hardened, your acorn donut holes are ready to enjoy!
These delightful treats are perfect for fall and make for a fun and tasty dessert or snack. Enjoy!
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