🚗 From Phoenix deputy to Gilbert's new chief: Meet Mario Paniagua

June has arrived, and Gilbert is full of life as always, even if most of us are already planning our days around the thermometer. Between farmers markets, stargazing nights, trail rides, and live music, there is no shortage of ways to get out and enjoy!

This week also brings a major leadership change at Town Hall and a chance to help neighbors stay safe during the hottest months ahead. Here is the scoop on where to go, what to see, and who could use a helping hand.

🏛️ Meet Gilbert's new town manager

The Gist: Mario Paniagua officially became Gilbert's Town Manager on Monday, June 1, succeeding long-time manager Patrick Banger after a national search. The Town Council approved his contract last week, which includes a $375,000 annual salary and a $50,000 relocation payment once he establishes residency. Paniagua spent more than 27 years at the City of Phoenix, including over a decade as Deputy City Manager, before joining Gilbert as an Assistant Town Manager last summer.

Why It Matters: Whoever runs Town Hall sets the pace on roads, water, parks, and public safety. Paniagua's first months will tell us a lot about what's next for a town pushing 300,000 residents.

💧 Want to help fight the summer heat?

The Gist: Arizona Sports, The UPS Store, and Phoenix Rescue Mission just launched a Valley-wide hydration drive to fight summer heat-related illness. Drop cases of bottled water (16.9 oz size preferred) at participating UPS Stores, or donate online to the Mission's Code:Red campaign, which is aiming for 2 million bottles this summer after exceeding 1 million for the first time last year.

Why It Matters: Heat kills hundreds in Maricopa County every summer, and our homeless neighbors are most at risk. Gilbert has two participating drop-off spots: 67 S. Higley Rd. Suite 103 and 70 S. Val Vista Dr. Suite A3. To donate online:

🍕 The parlor that actually gets the gravy right

Crust Simply Italian is exactly what you need when you don’t feel like cooking. This neighborhood fixture brings genuine Long Island roots to the desert, serving up slow-simmered Sunday gravy and a crisp Grandma’s pizza that commands total silence.

Skip the kitchen tonight for whipped ricotta, spicy garlic knots, and a seat where the AC is cold and the hospitality feels like home.

🚲 Childhood memories turned two-wheeled adventures

We have just the thing to get you through summer! Freeride Bike Co. sits right where owner Brian Morris used to ride his own bike as a kid. Inside, the spacious shop holds everything from beach cruisers to e-bikes. The team handles full-service repairs and custom restorations with neighborly care.

A thoughtful gesture idea for a loved one: bring in their current ride for a tune-up before hitting the Gilbert canal path together. 😉

☀️Stevie (now Gus) is a handsome, four-year-old Poodle mix

As the June warmth settles into Gilbert, he is a wonderful companion weighing a compact ten pounds. He is a delightful mix of a loyal lap dog and a playful friend. Because he startles easily, he requires an adults-only environment to feel secure.

Standard adoption fees apply, and a family introduction ensures compatibility.

To learn more about this gorgeous guy,

💧 H2O Fest | Mesquite Aquatic Center | 06/05 | More 
Beat the summer heat with inflatable obstacles, slides, and refreshing poolside fun.

🕺 Mother Son Dance | Gilbert Community Center | 06/05 | More 
Bright neon energy, playful music, and festive games illuminate this vibrant evening.

🎨 Adventures in Art with GVAL | HD South | 06/06 | More 
Pam Hendricks leads a sunflower painting workshop at the museum.

🌊 Summer Sunday! | Compassion Church | 06/07 | More
Exciting water slides and food truck flavors create a joyful weekend gathering.

🏃‍♂️ Summer Series 2 | Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch | 06/07 | More 
A scenic morning run through pristine natural desert wetlands and trail loops.

🧩 Game Night | Southeast Regional Library | 06/08 | More 
Unwind after hours with a casual selection of friendly tabletop board and card games.

🎸 Live Music: Joy Ride | O.H.S.O. Brewery Gilbert | 06/05 | More 
Feel-good covers from the '70s, '80s, '90s. 8 to 11 on the patio.

🎤 ARETHA: Queen of Soul | Hale Concert Hall | until 06/06 | More 
1 Week Only: Celebrating the legendary music and spirit of Aretha Franklin.

🌿 Gilbert Health and Wellness Expo | Doubletree By Hilton | 06/06 | More
An inspiring showcase of fitness trends, clean products, and holistic lifestyle experts.

🤘 Tripwire Live | Icons Sports Grill | 06/06 | More 
Rock classics and timeless dance hits spanning the golden decades.

🧠 Trivia Tuesday Challenge | Backyard Gilbert | 06/09 | More 
Engaging brainteasers and relaxed social competition alongside all-day drink specials.

🥊 Comedy Rumble: Gilbert Edition | JP's Comedy Club | 06/11 | More
Local comics get a few minutes each. Audience votes who survives.

Thanks for reading Our Newsletter! We’ll have more updates for you next week!

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