❓ Is the FAA changing flight paths over Southern Gilbert?

The forecast says hot, but Gilbert keeps finding ways to make summer fun anyway.

This week's lineup includes some reassuring news about local flight paths, a notable change at a neighborhood charter school, and a packed schedule of events that make staying local an easy choice.

Interested in live music, comedy, community history, or simply finding a new spot around town? There's something worth checking out. And before you go, make sure to meet Seraphine. She may just be the sweetest thing in this entire newsletter. ❤️

✈️ No flight path changes for Southern Gilbert

The Gist: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently dropped a Draft Environmental Assessment for its Phoenix Area Modernization Project, which plans to introduce new satellite-based departure routes at Mesa Gateway Airport. Because these shifts mean aircraft might fly over new neighborhoods, the Town of Gilbert put out a statement on June 3 to clear the air for local folks. If you live in southern neighborhoods like Seville, Layton Lakes, Power Ranch, Trilogy at Power Ranch, or Adora Trails, you can breathe easy.

Why It Matters: The good news is that our morning coffee won't be disrupted by new jet noise: Gilbert neighborhoods will not be impacted by these changes. Commercial traffic isn't shifting westbound over us, corporate jets will stick to their usual weather-dependent patterns, and Allegiant Airlines will only use the route in incredibly rare instances down the road.

🎨 Curriculum Reset Coming to Gilbert Arts Academy

The Gist Gilbert Arts Academy, our neighborhood's small public charter K–8 on Elliot Road, is planning a full program redesign. Operated by the Kaizen Education Foundation, the school has been a staple in central Gilbert since 2008 and currently serves around 170 to 200 students. The upcoming shift will reshape its signature arts-integrated curriculum and its four-year-old preschool program.

Why It Matters: In a town packed with competitive schooling options, a big shift at one of our longest-running small charters ripples out to all of us. With a tight-knit student body and a 20:1 student-to-teacher ratio, this curriculum reset is going to be deeply felt by every local family enrolled, on the waitlist, or looking ahead to kindergarten next fall.

🤠 Pecan-wood smoke and pure Arizona nostalgia

Joe’s Real BBQ slow-smokes its meats over local pecan wood, delivering a deeply tender brisket that pairs perfectly with their scratch-made mac and cheese. Summer events have arrived, and the iconic yellow-brick 1929 Safeway building remains the ultimate gathering spot (or catering option!).

Grab a picnic table outside, pair your platter with a classic homemade root beer float, and toast to the season.

💐 Where European design meets summer blooms

Lily of the Valley Flowers & More remains a local favorite for weddings since 2016, bringing a European sensibility to Gilbert. Owner Ilona incorporates years of continental experience and landscape architecture into every arrangement.

Beyond standard bridal bouquets, they are shaking up the season with the unique Father's Day Stunner and other options. They also stock fresh succulents for a quick weekday pickup.

Meet Seraphine, a bright 4-year-old Shiba Inu and Shepherd mix

Weighing a manageable 31 pounds, this inquisitive girl is already house trained and loves splashing around in the backyard water hose to beat the desert heat.

While her compatibility with cats and kids is currently unknown, she does require another dog in the home to help her confidence blossom. Seraphine is available through Friends For Life Animal Rescue for a $95 adoption fee.

To learn more about this beautiful girl,

🔭 Public Star Party | Riparian Preserve | 06/12 | More 
The East Valley Astronomy Club's monthly star party: explore the night sky!

🌻 Tomato and Sunflower U-Pick | Agritopia Farm | 06/13 | More 
Fresh seasonal harvesting experiences: bright blooms and heritage vine tomatoes.

🍦 Summer Sunday: Ice Cream Social | Compassion Church | 06/14 | More 
Cool off with sweet local treats and friendly weekend neighborhood conversations.

🧠 Family History: Research Wiki | HD South | 06/16 | More 
Discover deep ancestral roots using powerful global digital genealogy tools.

🎉 Juneteenth Celebration | Southeast Regional Library | 06/19 | More 
Community gathering featuring local vendors, craft stations, and a storybook walk.

🎸 Live Music: The Conveyors | O.H.S.O. Brewery Gilbert | 06/12 | More 
Sunny island reggae by a Phoenix reggae band on a breezy patio.

🎤 Peter Sers Headlining | JP's Comedy Club | 06/12 | More 
Stand-up comedy with sharp observations from a seasoned Los Angeles comic.

😎 Live Music: Outside the Line | O.H.S.O. Brewery Gilbert | 06/13 | More 
Dynamic powerhouse dance hits, timeless soul, and upbeat classic pop covers.

🎲 Music Bingo Monday | Icons Sports Grill | 06/15 | More 
Interactive musical game night featuring multi-genre singalongs and cash prizes!

🧘 Taoist Tai Chi | HD South | 06/17 | More 
Gentle, restorative movements focusing on balance and mindful breathing.

🎨 Girls Night Out: Macaron Magic | Decadent Macaron | 06/17 | More 
Unwind with custom crafts, seasonal pink sips, and artisanal sweet treats.

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

Click here to follow us: Facebook | Instagram