🚁 Drones can start beating first responders to the scene!

New year, meet your go-to lunch (or dinner) spot. Seed Shack, founded by two sisters, serves up plant-based comfort with serious personality. Think Impossible burgers, crispy chik’n sandwiches, chili fries that steal the show, and bright fusion bites like Lemon Sesame Tofu Tacos.

The vibe is friendly, the flavors are bold, and it somehow feels both indulgent and intentional. A fresh start, on a bun, or in a bowl!

If escape rooms are on your 2026 bucket list, at Escapology, it's easy to jump in. You'll love how patient and upbeat the game masters are, especially during birthday parties, kids mode sessions, and first-timer games.

The Gist: The day after Christmas, residents at Eternal Spring of Gilbert gathered for a very special prom, honoring Louise Grace on her 100th birthday. Dressed in her favorite pink and purple, Grace was crowned Prom Queen, complete with live music from The Brass Cats, a three-layer cake, student volunteers from Williams Field High, and surprise birthday wishes from Gilbert police. She also received a formal commendation from Gov. Katie Hobbs.

Why It Matters: It was a joyful reminder of how our community shows up to celebrate its own, at every age. Grace says she plans to keep enjoying life and time with friends at Eternal Spring.

The Gist: Gilbert police and fire crews are testing a drones-as-first-responders program that sends unmanned aircraft to emergencies before patrol cars or engines arrive. Drones are launched from pre-positioned sites around town and controlled centrally, giving responders real-time views of fires, crashes, and disturbances, sometimes within 90 seconds. Early trials showed drones were first on scene more than a third of the time and helped resolve some calls without sending crews at all.

Why It Matters: Faster information means safer responses, smarter use of resources, and fewer unnecessary calls tying up crews. Town leaders are exploring a full rollout that could eventually support multiple Gilbert departments.

New year, new goals, and Heidi Klum is ready to walk into her next chapter.

This 6 year old, 37 pound Beagle mix is all about gentle strolls, wagging tails, and staying close to her people. She has excellent leash manners, enjoys other dogs, and would do best in a home with kids ages 8 and up due to some hip sensitivity. An adoption fee applies.

To learn more about this sweet girl...

Joy Again Bakery makes gluten-free treats that actually taste homemade, because they are. Made in Mesa, loved Valley-wide.

Made by a food-sensitive family, for yours: safe, flavorful, and easy to order!