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  • 🚔 Man Arrested After Apparent Road Rage Shooting 🏛️ Kathy Tilque Not Seeking Re-election 🎟️ Chandler Foundation’s Annual Raffle Includes Choice of Cash, Car and more...

🚔 Man Arrested After Apparent Road Rage Shooting 🏛️ Kathy Tilque Not Seeking Re-election 🎟️ Chandler Foundation’s Annual Raffle Includes Choice of Cash, Car and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #064

Author

Lloyd Heath
January 17, 2024

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

🚔 Man Arrested After Apparent Road Rage Shooting Near I-10 and Wild Horse Pass

⚖️ Supreme Court Could Deal Fatal Blow to Powers of Federal Agencies

🏛️ Kathy Tilque Not Seeking Re-election to Gilbert Town Council

🐕 Arizona Bill Would Set Clearer Standards for Dog Ownership

🚁 Scottsdale Police Utilize Drone Technology to Nab Gallery Burglar

💼 Gilbert Public Schools Has Job Fair Jan. 17 for All Positions

🎟️ Chandler Foundation’s Annual Raffle Includes Choice of Cash, Car

🎨 Native American Arts Festival at Superstition Mountain Museum This Weekend

Upcoming

Man arrested after apparent road rage shooting near I-10 and Wild Horse Pass

In Chandler, Arizona, law enforcement officials have successfully apprehended a suspect following a serious road rage incident that took place earlier in the month. The confrontation occurred in the vicinity of Interstate 10 and Wild Horse Pass on January 4th. The episode escalated to violence, resulting in one man being shot in the face at a nearby gas station. He was subsequently hospitalized in critical but stable condition.

The victim provided troopers with a description of the assailant, explaining that the conflict began after he was abruptly cut off by another driver. The situation intensified when the other driver mimicked a gun with his hand and shot at the victim's vehicle as they were parting ways. The victim’s dash camera played a crucial role in the investigation, capturing the license plate of the suspect's vehicle.

Arizona Department of Public Safety officials were able to track down the suspect, identified as 39-year-old Salvatore Patrick Kupreisis, at the Lone Butte Casino approximately a week after the incident. Further investigation revealed that Kupreisis had traded in his vehicle at a local dealership, presumably in an effort to evade arrest.

Kupreisis has since been taken into custody and faces several serious charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault, drive-by shooting, disorderly conduct, among others.

Supreme Court Could Deal Fatal Blow to Powers of Federal Agencies

The Supreme Court is set to make a crucial decision on the scope of federal agencies' powers, potentially impacting a wide array of public health, safety, environmental, and consumer protection policies. This decision revolves around a legal doctrine known as "Chevron deference," established in the 1984 Supreme Court case Chevron USA Inc. v. Natural Resources Defense Council Inc. The doctrine currently allows courts to defer to federal agencies' reasonable interpretations of unclear laws, acknowledging their expertise in their respective fields.

USC experts, including Professor Clare Pastore, express concerns that overturning Chevron deference could significantly weaken the administrative state, making it difficult for agencies to function effectively. Pastore notes that while Chevron deference can be problematic, as it tends to favor agency interpretations, a pre-Chevron framework (Skidmore deference) might offer a more balanced approach, allowing courts to consider various factors like the law's language, purpose, and history.

The consequences of removing Chevron deference are substantial. It could undermine agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration, and Department of Agriculture, hindering their ability to regulate public health issues such as pollution, food and water safety, drug treatment safety, clinical testing, and the safety of imported goods. This shift in power could result in a judicial takeover of regulatory decisions or force Congress to anticipate and address every potential ambiguity in laws, an almost impossible task.

The case that triggered this potential change involves commercial fishermen challenging a rule by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) requiring the fishing industry to bear the costs of observers under specific circumstances. The fishing companies argue that Congress only granted this power in limited situations, and the NMFS rule extends beyond those bounds. They suggest that the observers, acting as federal officials, should be funded by the government, not the industry.

The Biden administration defends Chevron deference, calling it a "bedrock principle of administrative law" that ensures uniformity in law interpretation across the nation and respects Congress's delegation of power to agencies. Overturning Chevron, according to the administration, could lead to inconsistent interpretations of laws and destabilize agency programs and regulations based on current interpretations.

Overall, the Supreme Court's decision on this matter could reshape how environmental, health, consumer protection policies are made and enforced, potentially leading to less oversight and regulation in these critical areas​

Kathy Tilque not seeking re-election to Gilbert Town Council

Kathy Tilque, a long-serving member of the Gilbert Town Council, has announced her decision not to run for re-election, opting to retire and focus on her family. Her career, marked by significant contributions such as leading the Community Engagement Task Force and mediating key community disputes, demonstrates her commitment to public service and community development. Tilque's tenure saw her navigating complex issues, from local protests to development disagreements, always aiming for harmonious resolutions. Her legacy includes efforts to improve community communication, standardize meeting protocols, and update ethical guidelines. In her final year on the council, she plans to ensure financial stability for Gilbert and support initiatives like the Family Advocacy Center, reflecting her enduring dedication to the town's well-being.

Arizona bill would set clearer standards for dog ownership

The Arizona Humane Society, in collaboration with Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, is advocating for stronger animal cruelty laws in Arizona. The society witnessed a significant rise in animal abuse cases in 2023, with 15,000 service calls and nearly 10,000 animal abuse cases, marking a 21% increase from the previous year.

Acknowledging the insufficiency of existing laws, Dr. Steven Hansen, the president of the Arizona Humane Society, emphasized the necessity for statewide legislation. The proposed Senate Bill 1047, sponsored by Sen. T.J. Shope, aims to comprehensively define animal cruelty. It includes provisions for necessary medical attention, safe shelter, and protection during extreme weather conditions, as well as ensuring the availability of suitable food and water for companion animals.

Sen. Shope highlighted the urgency of addressing issues like abandonment, lack of essential care, and insufficient shelter, especially during harsh weather conditions. The bill is seen as a critical step in bridging gaps in current legislation, especially benefiting pets in rural areas that lack specific legal protection against cruelty.

Scottsdale Police Utilize Drone Technology to Nab Gallery Burglar

In a recent development in Scottsdale, Arizona, Harpreet Singh, aged 32, has been detained by the Scottsdale Police Department on multiple charges including theft-control of stolen property, burglary, and possession of burglary tools. His arrest on January 7 followed a break-in at the American Fine Art gallery on North Scottsdale Road.

The situation unfolded when a gallery employee reported suspicious activity inside the building. Scottsdale police responded promptly, setting up a perimeter around the gallery. Despite their initial search turning up no suspects within the gallery, the officers decided to deploy a drone, a tool they've been using since 2015 in various units.

Sgt. Allison Sempsis, a spokesperson for the Scottsdale Police Department, explained the choice to use a drone in this scenario. The gallery owner had heard voices in the office space above the gallery, prompting a thorough search. When no one was found inside, the drone was employed to inspect the roof, a location inaccessible without the drone's aid. This decision proved crucial, as Singh was eventually located and contained on the roof, leading to his arrest with the assistance of officers and a K-9 unit. Evidence linking him to the burglary was also found on the roof.

The Scottsdale Police Department's adoption of drone technology has expanded over the years. Currently, the department operates 20 drones distributed across various units, including patrol, specialty units, vehicle crimes and reconstruction, street crimes, and park rangers. These drones are not only utilized for locating suspects but also in search and rescue operations, crime scene mapping, tactical overwatch, and community engagement initiatives.

Officers selected for the patrol drone program undergo 40 hours of initial training and are required to complete more than five hours of recertification training annually. The department utilizes different drone models depending on the specific mission, with the patrol drone program employing the DJI Mavic 3T model. This particular drone, priced at around $6,000, can cover approximately 1.2 miles per flight and is equipped with a thermal camera, enhancing its utility in various police operations.

Gilbert Public Schools has job fair Jan. 17 for all positions

Gilbert Public Schools (GPS) is gearing up for a significant recruitment event aimed at hiring teachers for the 2024/25 academic year, along with filling other current vacancies. This job fair is scheduled for 4-6 p.m. on January 17 at Highland High School. Representatives from all 39 GPS schools, covering grades from elementary to high school, will be in attendance. Additionally, departments such as Transportation, Nutrition Services, and Preschool are also looking to recruit new staff members.

To assist applicants in making a strong impression, GPS has provided several key tips. These include the importance of a firm handshake to convey confidence, the use of confident body language such as maintaining good posture and making eye contact, and showing enthusiasm. Applicants are encouraged to be flexible and open to various positions within the district, highlighting their adaptability. Doing thorough research on Gilbert Public Schools will demonstrate applicants' dedication and understanding of the district's educational philosophy and achievements. Finally, preparing thoughtful questions about the district's initiatives and employee support systems will not only show applicants' keen interest but also aid them in making a well-informed decision.

The upcoming job fair represents a vital step for those seeking a career in education. By focusing on these aspects – effective handshakes, positive body language, openness to diverse roles, comprehensive research, and insightful questioning – candidates can leave a lasting impression on GPS recruiters. Those interested in the available positions can find more information and apply online at GilbertSchools.net/Jobs.

Chandler Foundation’s annual raffle includes choice of cash, car

Carrington Little, the 2023 IMPACT scholarship awardee, stands proudly with her certificate. The Chandler Education Foundation organizes an annual raffle where $20 tickets offer a chance to win either $20,000 in cash or $27,000 towards a Toyota vehicle,

The Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) has launched its 21st annual Winner’s Choice Car or Cash Raffle, an initiative to support local students and schools. Last year, the campaign successfully raised $76,000 in scholarships for Chandler Unified School District high school graduates and nearly $20,000 for parent-teacher organizations and booster clubs. Tickets for the raffle are priced at $20 each.

This year, the raffle has embraced a digital approach, utilizing a specialized online platform for nonprofit fundraising. This platform allows participants to view raffle details, purchase tickets, and allocate credits to specific schools. Despite the digital shift, a limited number of paper tickets will still be available for wider community access.

The highlight of the event is the grand prize drawing, where the winner can choose between $27,000 towards a Toyota vehicle or a $20,000 cash prize. This event will be livestreamed on Friday, March 8 at noon. In a noteworthy mention, last year's winner, Robert Valentin, chose the cash prize.

To add excitement, early bird participants purchasing tickets before February 5 will be entered into a bonus draw with prizes like Bose headphones and Kate Spade handbags. CEF aims to raise $150,000 through this raffle. The raffle is open to Arizona residents over 21, and tickets can be purchased online here.

Native American Arts Festival at Superstition Mountain Museum this weekend

The Superstition Mountain Museum in Apache Junction, AZ, is set to host the Native American Arts Festival on January 20-21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This two-day festival celebrates Native American culture and art, featuring a rich tapestry of activities and performances. Visitors will be treated to dance performances, storytelling sessions, and music, including native flute and acoustic guitar. The event's highlight includes performances by the renowned Yellow Bird Apache Hoop Dancers and storytelling by Violet and Ken Duncan from Yellow Bird Productions.

The festival will also serve as a platform for numerous tribal-registered Native American artisans, both traditional and contemporary, to display their masterful creations. These artisans will interact with attendees, offering unique insights into their art. Adding to the festival's vibrancy, special guests from Arizona's 21 tribes will include tribal royalty and Native American color guards.

Designed as a family-friendly and educational experience, the event provides opportunities for photography and shopping. An admission fee of $10 is charged for individuals, with children under 10 enjoying free entry. The 2024 Native American Arts Festival is made possible through a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and is organized by the nonprofit Superstition Mountain Historical Society. For more information, visit the museum's website superstitionmountainlostdutchmanmuseum.org or call 480-983-4888.

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