Gilbert's Rep. Grantham Reintroduces Controversial Home-Cooking Bill, Awaits Governor's Response

Arizona Representative Travis Grantham has reintroduced a revised version of his proposal, often referred to as the "tamale bill," which aims to expand the range of home-cooked foods that can be legally sold to the public. This move comes after Governor Katie Hobbs vetoed the previous iteration last year. The updated bill, HB 2042, attempts to address the Governor's concerns while maintaining a ban on home inspections, a point Grantham insists is non-negotiable.

Under current Arizona law, the sale of certain "cottage" foods is permitted. Grantham's bill seeks to extend this list to include specific cooked foods like tamales. The bill, which initially received substantial legislative support, mandates food handler training and registration with the Arizona Department of Health Services for home cooks. It also requires clear labeling to indicate that the food was produced in a home kitchen, which may process common food allergens and is not subject to public health inspection.

Governor Hobbs' veto was rooted in concerns over insufficient standards for inspection and certification of home-based businesses and potential limitations on the ability of the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to investigate food-borne disease outbreaks. Her comments about the possibility of rodent or insect infestation in home kitchens sparked offense and allegations of perpetuating racist tropes.

Grantham's new bill aims to define what constitutes a "home kitchen" and addresses scenarios involving developmentally disabled individuals working in these kitchens. It also strengthens the ADHS's authority to revoke licenses or issue fines for violations related to food handler permits. However, it avoids mandating prior approval or inspection of home kitchens by health officials, a point on which the governor has not yet commented.

The bill outlines restrictions on the marketing and preparation of certain home-cooked products, particularly those containing dairy or meat, which must be sold and delivered in person. It also specifies that the health department retains the authority to investigate food-borne illnesses. As of now, no hearing has been scheduled for HB 2042.

Gilbert Man Arrested in Connection with Assault of Teenager Amid Rising Youth Violence Concerns

Jacob Pennington, a 20-year-old from Gilbert, was arrested by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office for assaulting a 16-year-old boy in San Tan Valley in November. The incident, captured on a widely shared social media video, showed the victim being attacked by multiple individuals.

The arrest comes amid growing concerns about youth violence in Gilbert, especially following the death of Preston Lord, a teenager who died after being assaulted at a Queen Creek house party.

The so-called "Gilbert Goons" group has been linked to this and other violent incidents, but Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell emphasized the importance of focusing on specific criminal acts. The County Attorney's Office is currently reviewing extensive evidence related to Lord’s case, including thousands of pieces of evidence and hundreds of videos.

Public's Assistance Requested in Ongoing Gilbert Teen Assault Investigations

The Gilbert Police Department is actively seeking public assistance in solving four recent cases of teen violence, following the arrest of four individuals in a separate assault case. These investigations have been intensified due to a resurgence in violent incidents involving teenagers in the area.

The first case, case number 22-147572, is a reopened aggravated assault that occurred on December 17, 2022, near Higley and Elliot roads. Although an arrest has been made in this case, the police are looking to identify more individuals involved.

In case number 24-1419, an aggravated assault occurred in a parking lot near the intersection of Williams Field Road and Market Street. The exact date of this incident is unknown, and the police are working to identify both the victims and the assailants.

Case number 24-1414 involves an aggravated assault believed to have taken place on a sidewalk near Guadalupe Road and Freestone Parkway. Like the previous case, the date of this incident remains uncertain, and the police are gathering information to identify those involved.

The fourth case, 24-1392, is another aggravated assault believed to have occurred at a parking garage located at 72 W. Vaughn Ave. The date of this incident is also unknown, and the police are appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the victims and assailants.

The Gilbert Police Department encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward and contact them at 480-503-6500, referencing the appropriate case number. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online through the department’s tip site at https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=965#.

These investigations are distinct from the ongoing investigation into the death of Preston Lord in Queen Creek. In connection with a separate case that took place on August 18 at Williams Field Road and Market Street, the police have made four arrests, including two juveniles and adults Christopher Fantastic and Aris Arredondo. This case also remains active, and the police are continuing to receive information and tips related to it.

Donations Needed as Car Crash Adds to Financial Woes of Gilbert's Beloved Peacock Wine & Book Bar

Julia Wallace, the owner of Peacock Wine & Book Bar in Gilbert, faced a severe setback when a car crashed into her business just before New Year's Day weekend, compounding financial challenges already present due to the pandemic.

Previously, Wallace had launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $150,000 to keep her passion project afloat. The accident at 1525 N. Gilbert Road caused no injuries but added to the bar's financial strain. Wallace reopened the bar quickly after the incident but acknowledged the significant revenue loss due to the accident.

Gilbert Police reported the crash, caused by a 21-year-old driver mistaking the accelerator for the brake, didn't result in injuries or severe structural damage. Despite having insurance, Wallace noted it did not cover all costs, including loss of wages for staff. The GoFundMe campaign has raised a fraction of the desired amount.

Opened in August 2019, Peacock Wine & Book Bar offers a selection of wines, craft beers, small bites, books, and gifts, along with a wine club membership. Wallace, who has a background in psychology and worked with children with special needs, ventured into this business seeking to create an atmospheric wine bar reminiscent of those in major cities. The bar, which also houses “Literally, A Bookshop”, has struggled since the pandemic but has remained a community staple, hosting author signings and book fundraisers.

Wallace, a Gilbert Chamber of Commerce ambassador and active community member, continues to brainstorm ways to reinvent and raise the profile of her establishment. Her efforts include extending operation hours and introducing craft classes.

Help Keep Peacock Wine & Book Bar Thriving: https://www.gofundme.com/f/k7aa6k

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