🦆 Volunteers are racing to save the ducks at Freestone Lake

Hello everyone! We hope your week is off to a great start. There is something really special about the way our local community shows up for one another, whether that is helping out at local parks or coming together for neighborhood events. We put together a solid list of local happenings, great food recommendations, and fun activities to keep your weekend plans simple. Thanks for reading along with us every week, and we hope to see you out and about in the neighborhood!

Gilbert Senior Center Celebrates National Senior Center Month with Raffles, Field Trips and More

The Gist: The Gilbert Senior Center at 130 N. Oak Street is marking September's National Senior Center Month with weekly raffles, field trips, and open programs for adults 55 and older. Adults 60 and older can get hot meals Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a suggested $4.50 donation with no reservation needed.

Why It Matters: The center offers year-round activities from arts and crafts to fitness classes, plus affordable weekday meals for older adults.

Gilbert volunteers rescuing Freestone Lake ducks during renovation

The Gist: Wildlife rehabilitators have rescued about 12 ducks from Gilbert's Freestone Lake, which is being drained for a 10-month renovation project, with at least nine more young ducks still needing rescue. Crystal White and Tasha Ellsworth of East Valley Wildlife are caring for the flightless domestic ducks and seeking public donations through GoFundMe and bracelet sales since the town is not providing financial compensation.

Why It Matters: The lake's renovation will displace wildlife, and volunteers need funding to care for the ducks until they can be returned after construction ends.

Fresh daily, never frozen, and portions that fill you up

Maza | Mediterranean Cuisine is a family-owned halal Mediterranean restaurant in Chandler near Chandler Mall and Tempe. Everything from marinades to sauces is made fresh daily with quality olive oil and real spices, no shortcuts or processed ingredients. Each plate comes loaded with two kebabs, rice, salad, hummus, and tahini, designed to leave you satisfied. With a 4.9-star rating from 92 reviews, it's built a reputation on honest pricing and the kind of authentic food that doesn't cut corners.