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🎒 Arizona Lottery, Arizona Office of Tourism team up 🌟 Gilbert Schools Shine with A+ Excellence and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #094

Author

Lloyd Heath
February 26, 2024

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

🚑 Crash involving light rail kills woman, injuries another in central Phoenix

🎒 Arizona Lottery, Arizona Office of Tourism team up to deliver unexpected adventure for players

🚨 Gilbert Feb 25 Weekly Crime Report: 55 Incidents and 10 Crime Stories

⚠️ Maricopa County Issues Measles Exposure Alert, Identifies Five Hotspots in Gilbert and Queen Creek

🌟 Gilbert Schools Shine with A+ Excellence: Canyon Rim and Towne Meadows Awarded for Outstanding

🥩 Gilbert Butchery: Carving a New Standard in Meat Excellence

🚢 Meet the Captain of the USS Arizona Submarine in Gilbert

🎸 Yelawolf, George Thorogood, Everclear round out Arizona Bike Week concert lineup

Upcoming and Ongoing

Crash involving light rail kills woman, injuries another in central Phoenix

In a tragic incident late Saturday night in central Phoenix, a devastating collision occurred between a light rail train and a black car at the intersection of 20th and Washington streets. The accident resulted in the death of one woman and left another in critical condition. Both victims, who were in the car, suffered serious injuries and were promptly taken to the hospital, where the driver succumbed to her injuries. The circumstances leading to this catastrophic event remain unclear as investigations continue.

Arizona Lottery, Arizona Office of Tourism team up to deliver unexpected adventure for players

The Arizona Lottery, in collaboration with the Arizona Office of Tourism, has unveiled an exciting initiative designed to inspire Arizonans and lottery enthusiasts to discover the diverse and picturesque destinations across the state. This initiative, the Arizona Adventure Scratchers ticket and adventure-based promotion, aims to blend the thrill of lottery play with the allure of outdoor exploration and travel.

Alec Thomson, CEO of the Arizona Lottery, emphasized the promotion's dual benefits, offering participants not only the chance to win through engaging lottery games but also the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Arizona firsthand. This innovative approach seeks to provide a holistic experience that celebrates the state's scenic landscapes while also contributing to its welfare.

The Arizona Adventure promotion is a celebration of Arizona's vast outdoor offerings, integrating a specially designed lottery ticket featuring three of the state's iconic landscapes. Participants have the chance to embark on geo-located adventures at 10 distinct destinations, with the added incentive of winning a share of $1 million in cash and exclusive Arizona travel prize packages, carefully put together by the Arizona Office of Tourism.

Lisa Urias, CEO/EDD of the Arizona Office of Tourism, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting Arizona's remarkable diversity and the abundance of recreational and adventure opportunities it presents. This collaboration aims to motivate residents to explore the state's offerings responsibly.

Interested individuals can visit AZAdventure.com to discover the various adventure options, access directions, and begin their self-guided explorations. By "Checking-In" at their chosen destination's coordinates on the website, players earn 10 entries into the Adventure Drawing for a chance to win Arizona travel prize packages.

Additionally, for those looking to participate without venturing far, the Arizona Adventure Scratchers ticket is available for a limited time at over 3,500 lottery retailers statewide. This $5 ticket not only offers a $50,000 top prize but also allows each ticket entered into the promotion to accrue five entries each into both the Cash Drawing and the Adventure Drawing.

For more information about the Arizona Adventure, including details on eligible games and the array of cash and experiential prizes up for grabs, enthusiasts are encouraged to visit AZAdventure.com.

Gilbert Feb 25 Weekly Crime Report: 55 Incidents and 10 Crime Stories

Last week, Gilbert experienced a total of 55 reported criminal incidents, highlighting various concerns for the community's safety. The category of 'Suspicious Situation' led the statistics with 14 occurrences, indicating a significant level of unease among residents about potential security threats. This was closely followed by 'Theft', with 10 instances, pointing to a prevalent issue with property crimes in the area. Both 'Assault' and 'Other' categories shared the third spot, each with 9 reported cases, suggesting a variety of criminal activities that challenge local law enforcement. 'Trespass' and 'Arrest' cases were comparatively lower, each with 3 reports. Furthermore, 'Burglary', 'Vandalism', and 'Violation' were recorded at a minimal rate of 2 cases each, whereas 'Robbery' was the least reported crime, with only 1 incident. The predominance of 'Suspicious Situation' and 'Theft' cases, along with a notable number of 'Assaults', call for an urgent reassessment of safety protocols and preventive measures within the Gilbert community.

Incidents

Last Week

Suspicious Situation

14

Theft

10

Assault

9

Other

9

Trespass

3

Arrest

3

Burglary

2

Vandalism

2

Violation

2

Robbery

1

Maricopa County Issues Measles Exposure Alert, Identifies Five Hotspots in Gilbert and Queen Creek

Maricopa County is currently experiencing an escalation in measles cases, with health authorities confirming two additional cases stemming from earlier exposure this month. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health has identified five locations in Gilbert and Queen Creek as potential hotspots for measles exposure. Individuals who visited Honey and Vine Restaurant and Orlando Auto Body in Gilbert, as well as Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Caldwell County BBQ, and Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream in Queen Creek, may have been exposed to the virus on specified dates and times.

The health department advises the public to monitor for measles symptoms until early March, based on their last exposure. Measles is highly infectious, beginning with fever, cough, and a unique rash, and is known for its rapid spread among those not vaccinated.

Dr. Nick Staab, the assistant medical director of MCDPH, emphasizes the community's role in containing the outbreak. He advocates for widespread immunization as the most effective strategy to prevent the return of measles. The virus can linger in the air for hours, posing a risk of infection long after the infected individual has left an area.

The measles vaccine is highlighted as a critical defense, offering around 97% effectiveness with two doses and significantly reducing the risk of infection. However, measles can lead to severe complications, including brain swelling and death, underscoring the urgent need for vaccination and awareness.

Gilbert Schools Shine with A+ Excellence: Canyon Rim and Towne Meadows Awarded for Outstanding 

Towne Meadows Elementary School and Canyon Rim Elementary School, both members of the Gilbert Public Schools, have recently been honored with the prestigious A+ School of Excellence Award by the Arizona Educational Foundation. This accolade is bestowed upon public schools within the state that showcase an outstanding commitment to fostering an environment of superior academics and engaging community involvement. The award serves to highlight schools that excel beyond standard expectations through innovative approaches, academic achievements, and active community participation, thus emphasizing their role in nurturing safe and student-focused surroundings conducive to educational success.

Jason Martin, the Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education, expressed his pride in this achievement, noting it as a testament to the relentless effort and dedication of the teachers, staff, and students within these institutions. He emphasized that this recognition is a reflection of their enduring commitment to providing a high-caliber educational experience in a nurturing and supportive setting.

Canyon Rim Elementary, located in Mesa, distinguished itself through its appeal to families desiring a traditional and supportive learning environment, where students are encouraged to thrive academically and personally. The school prides itself on offering diverse programs and fostering a positive, family-like atmosphere that promotes strong relationships and a mindset geared towards growth. Joe Lopat, the principal of Canyon Rim, credited the award to the hard work and commitment of the school's talented educators, who ensure that each student feels valued and supported, thereby fostering a community that champions academic excellence and personal development.

Similarly, Towne Meadows Elementary in Gilbert, celebrated for receiving its second A+ School of Excellence Award, is recognized for its commitment to creating a nurturing environment focused on love, belief, learning, and growth. With its rigorous gifted programs, student committees, and cherished annual traditions, the school has built a robust community that not only challenges its students academically but also supports their overall growth. Chip Pettit, the principal, attributed their success to their student-centered approach, emphasizing the pivotal role of teachers and staff in fostering an environment where students can flourish.

Families interested in the award-winning educational experience offered by these schools are encouraged to arrange a tour through the websites of Canyon Rim Elementary and Towne Meadows Elementary. Additionally, those seeking further information about the Arizona Educational Foundation and its awards can visit the organization’s official website.

 

Gilbert Butchery: Carving a New Standard in Meat Excellence

Dan Roosevelt, a seasoned expert in the meat cutting and hanging trade, took a bold step in 2019 by establishing Gilbert Butchery on Val Vista Drive and Warner Road, Gilbert, after years of refining his craft at various local supermarkets. Dissatisfied with the supermarket environment and its inadequate customer service, Roosevelt saw an opportunity to create a space that reflected his vision for high-quality meats and personalized service. His wife, Krista, also made a significant career shift, leaving her marketing position to join him in this venture.

The decision to open the shop came after Roosevelt noticed a drop in the rental price for the location he had been eyeing, making it a risk worth taking. At Gilbert Butchery, the emphasis is on sourcing the finest meats: beef from Minnesota, chicken from Georgia, and pork from Oklahoma. Additionally, the shop prides itself on its extensive selection of sausages, offering over a dozen varieties including popular flavors like bratwurst, sweet and hot Italian, hatch green chile, and unique beer brats made in collaboration with 12 West Brewing.

Roosevelt's commitment to variety extends to dry-aged beef, with offerings ranging from finger steak and picanha to dino ribs and tomahawks. The shop also stocks a range of specialty and hard-to-find items such as bison, Wagyu beef, rabbit, frog legs, pheasant, elk, deer, and venison, alongside a selection of medallions that customers particularly enjoy.

The butcher shop's chicken is touted as being vastly superior to what's available in grocery stores, described as more tender, juicy, and flavorful. This commitment to quality and variety has cultivated a growing base of loyal customers who appreciate the difference in taste and quality.

Steaks remain the shop's best-selling items, with brisket and short ribs also in high demand. Beyond meats, Gilbert Butchery offers a selection of salads, sides like steakhouse potatoes and jalapeño poppers, and even homemade pet food, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience.

Roosevelt is conscious of his pricing, striving to keep costs reasonable for his customers by leveraging volume sales. The shop also provides knife sharpening services, adding to its array of customer-focused offerings.

With the success of Gilbert Butchery, the Roosevelts are considering expanding their reach by opening a new location in Queen Creek, where they recently moved, potentially bringing their high-quality meats and exceptional service to a wider audience. Gilbert Butchery 965 S. Val Vista Drive, Gilbert. gilbertbutchery.com, 480- 626-5288

Meet the Captain of the USS Arizona Submarine in Gilbert

The Gilbert community is warmly invited to an exclusive opportunity to meet Navy Commander Tom Digan, the esteemed captain of the newly commissioned USS Arizona submarine. This special event is set to unfold on Friday, March 1st, from 9:30 to 11:30 AM within the welcoming confines of the Gilbert Town Hall Council Chambers. This gathering is a collaborative effort, organized by the Gilbert Veterans Advisory Board, Mayor Brigette Peterson, and the USS Arizona Legacy Foundation, to honor and introduce the captain of this significant naval vessel.

The USS Arizona (SSN-803) holds a deep connection to Gilbert, as the town is the proud sponsor of the submarine. This naming pays homage to the original USS Arizona battleship, which met a tragic fate during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, where 1,177 crew members valiantly lost their lives. The legacy of the USS Arizona continues with this new submarine, symbolizing resilience and remembrance.

Commander Digan, at the helm of the USS Arizona, plays a pivotal role in readying the submarine and its crew for their inaugural mission at sea. With a distinguished career in the Navy spanning nearly 19 years, Digan's expertise and leadership were honed through various assignments, including his recent role as the executive officer aboard the submarine USS San Juan.

Meet and Greet with Commander Tom Digan

Friday, March 1st
 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
 Gilbert Town Hall Council Chambers
 50 E. Civic Center Drive, Gilbert, AZ 85297

Yelawolf, George Thorogood, Everclear round out Arizona Bike Week concert lineup

The Arizona Bike Week 2024, marking its 27th anniversary, is set to electrify the WestWorld of Scottsdale with an impressive lineup of musical acts. This year's concert series promises an eclectic mix of genres, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. Kicking off the festivities on April 3rd, rapper Yelawolf will take the stage, setting the tone for an exhilarating week. The following night, country music's very own Brantley Gilbert is scheduled to perform, continuing the high-energy vibes.

The concert series will then turn back the clock on Friday, April 5th, with a nostalgic double feature as Everclear and George Thorogood and the Destroyers co-headline, offering fans a night filled with classic hits and blues-rock anthems. The finale on April 6th will see alt-metal heavyweights Godsmack closing out the series, ensuring the event ends on a high note.

Arizona Bike Week is renowned as the Southwest's premier motorcycle rally and is eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts from across the region. The 2024 event, running from April 3-7, will not host concerts on its final day, focusing instead on other attractions. Alongside the high-octane concerts, attendees will have access to a variety of vendors, stunt shows, bike shows, a bull-riding competition, and more, with single-day and rally passes currently available for purchase online.

For those planning to immerse themselves fully in the experience, options to reserve spots at the event's RV and tent campsites are also available. Located just northeast of the Loop 101 Pima Freeway and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, the WestWorld of Scottsdale at 16601 N. Pima Road is poised to welcome motorcycle aficionados and music fans alike for an unforgettable week of entertainment and camaraderie.

 

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