Salad and Go Takeovers and a Possible Gilbert Comeback
A guide to the reported 7 Brew, Swig, Dutch Bros and Just Salad sites—and the separate $180,000 brand purchase behind a possible Gilbert comeback. Here’s what is known as of October 19.
People · places · local rituals
Stories from the Valley.
Dispatches from the neighborhoods we call home, told with curiosity and a little desert dust.
In-N-Out Proposed at Arizona Athletic Grounds in Southeast Mesa
Mesa records identify an In-N-Out proposal at Arizona Athletic Grounds with dual drive-thru lanes. Here is what is confirmed, what comes next and what remains unknown.
East Valley Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes: 2026 Fall Guide
There is still time for an October farm outing. Compare Vertuccio’s corn maze, Schnepf’s Pumpkin & Chili Party and a Queen Creek food-truck dinner.
What’s Being Built at Elliot and Signal Butte? Circle K Plans
The dirt lot beside Swig at Elliot and Signal Butte is a planned Circle K. See original aerial photos, the city’s site-plan details and what’s known about timing.
Signal Butte Bike Park Grand Opening Announced for November 7
Signal Butte Bike Park in Mesa is scheduled to open November 7, 2026, at 10 a.m. Find the entrance, riding areas, parking details and what to check before a first visit.
What’s at Elliot and Signal Butte? Mesa’s Water Plant Explained
The red-roofed complex at Elliot and Signal Butte is Mesa’s drinking-water treatment plant. See original aerial photos and learn what its expansion will add.
Oregano’s at Signal Butte and Elliot Is Now Open
Oregano’s at 3506 S. Signal Butte Road in Mesa is now open. East Valley Explorer confirmed by phone on October 9, 2026.
SR 24’s Future: How US 60, SR 505 and Central Arizona Parkway Could Connect
SR 24 could one day reach US 60 and connect with SR 505 and Central Arizona Parkway. Here’s how the proposed network fits together—and what could happen first.
Sprouts Opens at Ellsworth and Ray in Mesa: A First Look Inside
Green-and-white balloons, opening-day shoppers and a first look inside: the new Eastmark-area Sprouts is open at Ellsworth and Ray. Here’s what to know before you go.