Three Arrests Made in Gilbert Teen Violence Cases, Investigations Continue

On January 24, the Gilbert Police Department made significant progress in two separate investigations related to teen violence by arresting three individuals. Kyle Renner, 18, was apprehended for his alleged involvement in two violent incidents: an assault near Higley and Riggs roads on November 22, 2022, and another assault in a Heritage District parking garage on December 3, 2022. Alongside Renner, Gage Garrison, 19, and a 17-year-old juvenile were also arrested in connection with the parking garage incident.

The November assault, initially reported in January 2024, involved a juvenile victim who claimed to have been assaulted outside a residence. The December incident, originally lacking in leads and subsequently inactivated, was revived when the police received a video of the alleged assault in December 2023. Following this, the police released photos to the public on January 11 in an effort to gather more information.

The Gilbert Police Department is continuing its investigation into these cases. Further charges and details will be announced as they become available. These cases are separate from the Queen Creek Police Department's ongoing investigation into the homicide of teenager Preston Lord in October.

Scott Anderson Launches Mayoral Campaign Focused on Unity and Growth in Gilbert

Vice Mayor Scott Anderson recently launched his campaign for mayor of Gilbert, with a kickoff party hosted by Councilman Chuck Bongiovanni and attended by over 40 people, including council members Kathy Tilque, Yung Koprowski, Jim Torgeson, and Bobbi Buchli. Anderson is set to run against current Mayor Brigette Peterson and newcomer Shane Krauser in the August Primary. At the event, Tilque, the 2023 vice mayor, praised Anderson as a unifying statesman.

Peterson, who has held office since January 2021 after six years on the council and 14 on the Planning Commission, faced criticism for her handling of teen violence in Gilbert and various ethics violation complaints. The formation of a subcommittee to address teen violence, initiated by Bongiovanni, Torgeson, and Anderson, highlights the community's concern, especially after the fatal beating of a local teenager, Preston Lord.

Anderson, elected to the council in 2016 and retired as Gilbert's Planning and Zoning director after 25 years of service, focused his campaign speech on his vision for Gilbert's future, emphasizing a strong economy, community prosperity, safety, and robust infrastructure. He aims to ensure Gilbert's quality of life continues well beyond its expected build-out in less than a decade. The council is set to discuss funding for $1 billion in planned projects at an upcoming spring retreat.

Gilbert Welcomes Cupbop's Unique Korean BBQ Concept to Warner Road

Cupbop, an innovative Korean barbecue restaurant, has recently expanded its presence with a new location at 35 E. Warner Road, Suite 101, in the Gilbert Warner development, Gilbert. Officially opening its doors on January 14, Cupbop brings a unique dining concept to the area, offering Korean barbecue served conveniently in a cup.

This marks another milestone in the restaurant's rapid expansion, which now boasts 60 locations across the United States, including 10 in Arizona. Additionally, Cupbop has established a significant international footprint with over 100 locations in Indonesia.

The restaurant's growth reflects a growing appetite for Korean cuisine, particularly in a fast-casual format. Patrons in Gilbert can now enjoy this culinary experience, which combines traditional Korean flavors with the ease of on-the-go dining.

For more information or inquiries, customers can contact Cupbop at 602-725-2735 or visit their website at www.cupbop.com.

Meraki Cooking School: Stirring Passions and Skills in Gilbert’s Kitchen

In the cozy confines of a home kitchen in Gilbert, Arizona, the Meraki Cooking School stands as a testament to the power of passion and love in culinary arts. The school, a brainchild of Meka Morrow, has become a beacon of culinary education, embodying the true essence of 'Meraki' – a Greek term signifying the act of doing something with soul, creativity, love, and passion.

A School Born from Passion and Purpose

Meraki Cooking School's inception was driven by Meka Morrow's recognition of the need for culinary classes that not only impart cooking skills but also foster independence, particularly among children, teens, and individuals with disabilities. As an educator with over 15 years of experience, including three years specifically developing and instructing culinary curricula for students with Autism, Meka has infused her extensive knowledge and innate passion for food into every aspect of the school.

Empowering Through Culinary Education

At Meraki Cooking School, the focus extends beyond teaching recipes; it's about instilling confidence and a sense of community through cooking. Meka's approach involves adaptive and life skills training, especially tailored for learners with different abilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy and empowerment of culinary arts.

A Community's Affection for Meraki

The response from the Gilbert community has been overwhelmingly positive. Parents of children and teens who attend the school often express gratitude for the skills and confidence their kids gain. Similarly, families of individuals with disabilities appreciate the school’s inclusive approach that respects and nurtures the abilities of each learner.

A Culinary Haven in Gilbert

Meraki Cooking School has become more than just an educational institution; it's a culinary haven where students of all ages and abilities come together to share, learn, and grow. Meka’s dedication to providing a nurturing and creative learning environment resonates deeply within the Gilbert community.

Book a Class: https://www.merakicookingschool.com/

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