Deer Valley Times, January 2018

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January 2018

Vol. 6 • No. 2

FREE

ANYTIME FITNESS AT NORTERRA OFFERS CONVENIENT WORKOUTS IN THIS ISSUE Charity ................................................................................. 3

Real Estate ...............................................................14 & 15

City News ....................................................................4 & 5

Finance ..............................................................................16

Hi, My Name is .................................................................. 6

Movies ................................................................................18

Business ..............................................................................7

Your Home .......................................................................20

Kids’ Corner ....................................................................... 9

Business Directory ..........................................................21

Education ..................................................................10 & 11

Things To Do .........................................................22 & 23

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 3

CHARITY

CONNECT WITH Get In Touch: 2155 W. Pinnacle Peak #201 Phoenix, AZ 85027 888-313-7916

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OCJ KIDS OFFERS POSITIVE ACTIVITIES AND ADULT MENTORS

TO AT RISK KIDS AND YOUTH

O

CJ Kids (Opportunity Community and Justice for Kids), founded in 1992, forming an alliance with the business and faith communities to provide services, resources and caring adults to address the needs of the most vulnerable in our society.

ness and faith communities with children and youth placed into the foster care system, with special emphasis on the children and youth currently living in group congregant care in Arizona and throughout the United States.

In 2012, OCJ Kids launched the Transition Success Founders Gary and Tammie Webb’s passion was Center project, supplying hygiene Welcome Kits, to reach out to the growing population of unsuperTransitional Suitcases, Kinship Kits, Emergency vised youth aged 12-18 who were gathering after Overnight Sleep Kits, clothing items, and visitaschool with nothing productive to occupy their time tion rooms for children and youth in the foster care system. OCJ Kids currently partners with the faith and who were being tempted by negative influences, including gangs, drugs, and violent behavior. community and Child Welfare officials in Arizona, Oregon, South Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

Gary and Tammie currently

Every day, youth in society are exposed to serve on the Assemblies of unhealthy and unstable futures. OCJ Kids’ mission is to God Compassion Missionary Council, serving equip foster and at-risk children and youth by providing the community across them tools, resources, and positive role models to America.

“

succeed and excel in every area of life.

Gary and Tammie knew these youths were making choices that would impact the rest of their lives and were determined to establish a program to offer positive activities and adult mentors who would not only encourage them to take the “right path,” but could show them how through direct assistance and role modeling.

”

OCJ Kids accepts all kinds of donations in order to help the children they serve. In order to ensure that they connect the right donations to the right people, they provided a list of acceptable in-kind donations as well.

To make a donation or read more about this great organization, visit www.ocjkids.org

In 1994, OCJ hosted its first on campus after school program, and in 1996 opened its first of nine off campus “Target Zone” community youth centers, one serving as a certified Teen Court with the Arizona juvenile justice department.

In 2006, OCJ started the Fostering Connections Program. The goal of the program is to connect the busi-

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

4 • January 2018 •

CITY NEWS

REENTRY FACILITY IN NORTH PHOENIX COULD MOVE TO SOUTH PHOENIX THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS REENTRY FACILITY IN NORTH PHOENIX COULD MOVE TO SOUTH PHOENIX, ACCORDING TO AUTHORITIES. Azcentral reported State plans for a 335-bed employment center and a 265-bed reentry center on the Maricopa County Durango Jail campus in southwest Phoenix. The plans are still tentative due to push back from neighbors. The new center would help inmates learn job skills and search for post-release employment.

If they do build the new center in South Phoenix, the re-entry center currently being operated out of the north Phoenix facility at 29th Avenue and Pinnacle Peak Road will be transferred, according to azcentral.

The reentry center in North Phoenix assists individuals recently released from prison and provides programs, life skills classes, services and temporary housing, so recently released inmates don’t end up on the streets.

Even though reentry centers usually get negative feedback from its neighbors, they help reduce recidivism. Recidivism is defined as a tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.

Recently released inmates have a 60 percent chance of returning back to prison in the state of Arizona, according to authorities. In some areas of Arizona, which lack affordable housing and job opportunities, recidivism is especially high.

The Arizona Republic reported South Phoenix neighborhoods in ZIP codes 85041 and 85042 have some of the highest recidivism rates in Phoenix and in the country.

According to the Arizona Department of Corrections, Arizona has 16 state prisons, six of which are run by private companies. Arizona has 42,000 inmates per 6.9 million Arizonians, while Massachusetts, that has a similar population, only has 11,000 inmate population, according to Pew Foundation.

Sue Ellen Allen, a founder and executive director of Reinventing Reentry, said the recidivism rate is about 60 percent, but measuring recidivism is hard because some inmates go back to prison not just for a committing a crime but on a technicality.

“I heard the director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons say, ‘Trying to measure recidivism is like trying to nail Jell-O to the wall,’ Allen said.

“And I couldn’t believe it, but he was right.”

Allen said there are many things the department of corrections count as a part of recidivism.

Many felons go back on a technicality like being late to a half-way house or dating another former inmate which still counts toward recidivism.

There are many efforts to reduce recidivism and educate communities about it. Reinventing Reentry is a non-profit organization that assists newly released inmates to find housing and gain employment therefore reducing recidivism rates, building securer communities, and directing taxpayers’ money towards something else other than inmate housing.

Many prisons have programs to teach inmates basic skills and even earn college credits, but sometimes they can’t even make it to classes because their correction officer does not give them a pass.

Julie Brown, a former program manager at the ADOC, was running one of these programs.

The Department of Justice granted $750,000 to teach inmates skills to help them get an employment upon release.

Inmates earned 12 credit hours in AutoCAD classes, learned resume writing, interview skills to get higher level jobs, however, the employers still would not hire them.

Brown said one of the IT companies would not employ former inmates because people working at the office could be afraid of them.

Isadora Dahlen, an educator and coach for women, teaches a creative class for women in prison. She only gets hour and a half a week and tries hard to get women to tell their stories.

Many have experienced significant trauma during childhood like rape or molestation, they attracted wrong people, and made bad decisions.

Dahlen said 85 percent of her students are in for drugs or alcohol use, but the employers still would not employ them after release.

“I am disheartened and hopeful at the same time,” Dahlen said. “We are working really hard to do this, but it is really like the rest of the world doesn’t care about it.”

Both Dahlen and Brown agreed that educating the community is one of the first steps to reduce recidivism. Fear of the unknown is what makes people turn away from former inmates, therefore increasing their chances of going back to prison where they feel safe and know what to expect, according to Dahlen.

One of the recent steps in the efforts to lower recidivism and help former inmates get hired, was a decision of The Board of Supervisors of Maricopa County to remove questions about previous convictions from most job applications, unless required by specific departments. The convictions would still show in the background checks, however, only after a person already qualified for a job, giving former felons more chances of getting hired.

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 5

CITY NEWS

NEW I-17 SIGNS TACKLE SPEEDING NORTH OF PHOENIX

SPEED-FEEDBACK MESSAGES ADDED IN BLACK CANYON CITY AREA SENDING A SAFETY MESSAGE ABOUT DANGEROUS SPEEDING ON THE STEEP, WINDING STRETCH OF INTERSTATE 17 IN THE BLACK CANYON CITY AREA NORTH OF PHOENIX, the Arizona Department of Transportation has activated six new electronic signs to tell drivers they’re traveling over the speed limit.

These speed-feedback signs, featuring the posted speed limit and a digital screen, display vehicle speeds to I-17 drivers in areas between Black Canyon City and the Sunset Point Rest Area. The signs, which primarily track traffic in the left lane, display vehicle speeds starting 10 mph below the speed limit as well as “too fast” or “slow down” messages focused toward those who are driving above the limit.

ADOT installed the permanent

speed feedback signs earlier this year as part of a $1.1 million I-17 safety project between New River and Camp Verde. They were activated in late November.

A study conducted in advance of the I-17 safety project found that Department of Public Safety troopers cited “speed too fast for conditions” as the leading driver violation in more than 40 percent of I-17 crashes that occurred in the Black Canyon City area between 2011 and 2015.

The new speed-feedback signs serve as a safety tool in an area where crashes and other incidents, including disabled vehicles, can cause closures and lengthy delays along I-17’s winding grade.

The three northbound I-17 speedfeedback signs are located near Table Mesa Road (milepost 236),

Coldwater Road (milepost 245) and Bumble Bee Road (milepost 247). The southbound I-17 signs are located near Sunset Point Rest Area (milepost 251) and approaching curves on the downhill grade near Bumble Bee Road and Coldwater Road.

Other features of ADOT’s I-17 safety project north of Phoenix include four new digital message boards installed earlier this year to alert drivers to highway conditions and provide safety messages. Crews also have posted additional signs to advise drivers about highway curves.

Speed limits along I-17 generally range from 65 to 75 mph north of Phoenix, with lower advisory speeds on signs in some areas with curves.

ADOT also is studying possible

improvements to the I-17 corridor between Anthem Way and State Route 69 at Cordes Junction before finalizing plans for adding new lanes and other safety enhancements.

With the help of funds from the Maricopa Association of Governments, which serves as the metropolitan planning organization for the Phoenix area, projects to add new I-17 lanes in areas between Anthem and Black Canyon City are now scheduled for construction in the years 2021-22.

The concept of building “Demand Lanes” between Black Canyon City and Sunset Point, for use as needed by the busiest direction of travel or in the event of a closure, is just one idea being considered for that mountainous section of I-17.

Funding for improvements in that area hasn’t been identified.

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6 • January 2018 •

HI, MY NAME IS...

PROFILE ON LOCAL BUSINESS: Paul Reevs MY COMPANY & TITLE IS… Eco-Logic Management Pest Services, Owner & Vice President

A TYPICAL DAY IN MY LIFE INCLUDES… Spraying perimeter barriers, drilling termiticide injection holes, paying bills and collecting payments.

MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT LIVING/WORKING IN THE DEER VALLEY AREA IS… Its entrepreneurial spirit. There are so many small businesses starting up, and it is an exciting time to be among so many great efforts.

MY FAVORITE MOVIE I COULD NEVER GET TIRED OF WATCHING AND WHY...

Tommy Boy. Have you seen it?

MY FAMILY… Is an interesting one. We are the modern-day Brady Bunch with a his-hers-and-ours family. I have a son from a previous marriage, my wife has a son from a previous marriage and together we have our daughter.

THE BUSINESS LESSON I LEARNED THE HARD WAY IS… Trust but verify. It’s a shame how many people will take

advantage of you if they get the chance.

MY FIRST JOB WAS… A paper boy.

ONE THING I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT… Hand sanitizer. I’m a bit of a germaphobe which makes it quite entertaining to watch me work some of the dirty situations we get into.

MY LIFE… Has been an interesting one. I sure hope the sequel is as good.

WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I WANTED TO BE… A cop, and I was. I was a Border Patrol Agent, Intelligence Field Agent and Program Manager in the criminal justice system for 15 years.

THE SONG I WOULD SING AT KARAOKE NIGHT IS...

Freeze Frame by The J Geils Band.

THE ONE PERSON WHO MOTIVATES ME IS… Myself.

THE LAST THING THAT MADE ME LAUGH OUT LOUD WAS… When my partner told me he cleaned his truck (he really did!)

THE PERFECT DAY WOULD BE… Anything with my wife Roseann.

PAUL REEVS (LEFT)

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THE BEST GIFT I’VE EVER RECEIVED WAS...

Tickets to see the first International NFL game when the Giants played the Dolphins in Wembley Stadium.

THE ACTOR I WOULD WANT TO PLAY ME IN A MOVIE OF MY LIFE IS...

Dennis Quaid. My kids say I look like him.

MY DREAM VACATION WOULD BE TO… Italy (again).

MY WORDS OF WISDOM TO ASPIRING BUSINESS OWNERS...

Someone once told me when I was in college, “Do something you love to do. The money will always follow if you find it.”

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I’M CURRENTLY WORKING ON… Creating new pest products and solutions. Dealing with pests is like bug-CSI and I’m always studying their behavior to get a leg up on them.

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• January 2018 • 7

BUSINESS

THREE STEPS TO PROPERLY INSURE YOUR SMALL BUSINESS IN A NATURAL DISASTER

T

he recent spate of natural disasters that devastated parts of North America included a violent variety of events. There were three major hurricanes – Harvey, Irma and Maria – wildfires in Northern California, an earthquake in Mexico and tornadoes in Oklahoma.

One thing these calamities had in common: They inflicted billions of dollars in property damage and adversely affected many small businesses. History portends that many of those operations won’t completely recover – ever.

Almost 40 percent of small businesses don’t reopen after a disaster because the cost of recovery is so high, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

One of the major reasons is that the businesses didn’t have sufficient insurance.

“Many small business owners will face additional losses due to these disasters, some of which may not be as obvious as flood or winddamage claims,” says Peter J. Strauss (www.peterjstrauss.com), an attorney, captive insurance manager and author of The Business Owner’s Definitive Guide to Captive Insurance Companies.

“While utilizing the commercial

market for major lines of coverage – property, general liability, etc.

– is crucial for major events like a hurricane or tornado, it is very likely that not all the losses your small business could suffer will be covered.

“It’s a big blow – often a terrible surprise. So as a business owner, it’s critical that you know you’re completely covered. If you’re unsure, a little homework is necessary.”

Strauss gives three steps small business owners should take to be properly insured in a disaster: WEIGH THE WORST-CASE SCENARIOS A natural disaster can affect a small business in many ways so the owner needs to schedule a complete risk assessment and consider every aspect of potential damage when seeking an insurance policy. “Things like costs incurred by the property while the business is closed; extra expenses for moving to a temporary location; loss of customers and loss of employees because their home was badly damaged and relocating is the only feasible option for them,” Strauss says. “There are a multitude of scenarios that could occur, and as the business owner you really can’t afford to leave anything exposed.”

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DON’T ROLL THE DICE Strauss references the insurance acronym DICE as a checklist for analyzing your policy. DICE includes the Declarations page, the Insuring agreement, Conditions, and Exclusions. “The business owner should read the policy thoroughly or go one step further and have an expert review the policy,” Strauss says. “The Declarations page is as far as most people will read. But when you dig into the Insuring agreement and beyond, that is where you will find the real meat of what is actually covered. Pay attention to key words and phrases and research the terms.”

CONSIDER INSURANCE ALTERNATIVES Some small business owners shopping the commercial insurance market find that the coverage

is too restrictive or expensive for their kind of business. One of the best options available is to form a captive insurance company, or more commonly called a ‘Captive.’ “A Captive is an insurance company that their business owns and controls. Not only does a Captive help control the cost of premiums, because the business determines the risks it is going to insure, but there can also be significant financial advantages,” Strauss says.

“The commercial insurance market can be a sticky wicket,” Strauss says. “We make the conscious choice to spend money on various insurance policies versus sweating the odds of not being covered in an emergency. But what if the real gamble was buying the insurance in the first place?”

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HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

8 • January 2018 •

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HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

KIDS’ CORNER

• January 2018 • 9

BEST HIKING TRAILS IN PHOENIX FOR KIDS

By Jill “MamaBug” Frier

P

hoenix is well known for its fantastic hiking trails. There are over 200 miles of trails on more than 41,000 acres in the City of Phoenix park system. Maricopa County has 10 regional parks with over 120,000 acres of open space and hundreds of miles of trails, campgrounds and nature centers. With so many miles of trails to explore and the beauty of the Sonoran Desert just outside the door, our family tries to get outside and hit the trail as often as possible. Here are a few of the area

parks and trails we like best for hiking with kids, right here in the Valley of the Sun.

WHITE TANK MOUNTAIN REGIONAL PARK The White Tank Mountain Regional Park is one of our favorite places to hike. Located in the far west part of the valley, the White Tanks have a huge variety of hikes, including many flatter, shorter, kid-friendly adventures. The Waterfall trail is a short, wide trail with tons of petroglyphs and a real waterfall at the end (but go early, because it is also very popular).

Other shorter, and less populated trails that are good for kids include the Black Rock short and long loops and the Ironwood trail. The park also hosts a great playground, tons of picnic areas, and an excellent Visitor Center.

Check out the map before you get to the trailhead, as many of the trails also go straight up the mountain.

MCDOWELL MOUNTAIN REGIONAL PARK We have been hitting the trails in the McDowell Mountain Regional Park since we moved to the Valley many years ago.

The park has some beautiful flat hikes that are short enough for young little legs.

The park also has a nice play area and a good Visitor Center, with many picnic areas. Located just north of Fountain Hills, this park has great views where you can experience the quiet breezes and active wildlife of the Sonoran Desert. The North Loop is a good choice for kids. It has about three miles of flat, wide trail with excellent desert and mountain views, but keep in mind there is absolutely no shade here. Be sure to take snacks, water, sunscreen and hats - and go early so the little ones don’t get too cranky.

PHOENIX SONORAN DESERT PRESERVE The Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve is a relatively new Phoenix City Park, located between 19th Avenue and Cave Creek Road on Dove Valley Road. This preserve has beautiful hiking trails in the North Valley and is now home to one of our family’s favorite hikes in the Valley. We like to take the shorter Apache Wash Vista trail, but there are quite a few longer trails we are planning to try this year. As you hike this trail, keep a heads up – it’s a big favorite of trail bike riders, as well as hikers. Remember that bikes (and horses) always have the right of way, because they are bigger and going too fast to stop. Be sure to step to the side so they can pass.

IMPORTANT HIKING TIPS Before you hit the trail take time to prepare for your hike. Bring water, snacks a hat and sunscreen. Watch the weather and dress appropriately – bring layers in the winter months and be prepared to stash jackets part way through the trail. Stay on the trail and keep your cell phone handy for emergencies. Make sure your kids understand the rules for hiking, and that you have plenty of snacks for a quick energy boost. And I strongly recommend using the restroom before you hit the trail. The City of Phoenix has a great Take a Hike, Do it Right campaign with information on how to hike safely in the desert. Over 200 hikers on average are rescued on our trails each year – please be aware and take time to stay safe.

There are so many great places to hike in the Phoenix area that this is just the tip of the iceberg. For more information about all of the hiking trails in the Valley of the Sun, see the City of Phoenix (https://www.phoenix.gov/ parks/trails) and Maricopa County (https://www.maricopacountyparks. net/) websites. And be sure to check out Ladybug’s Blog for more trail recommendations and tips for hiking with kids everywhere in Arizona!

Watch Ladybug’s Blog for more ideas at www.LadybugsBlog.com

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

10 • January 2018 •

EDUCATION

DEER VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

AZMERIT ASSESSMENTS

A

zMERIT results for DVUSD students included 610 assessments with the highest possible scale score, essentially a “perfect” score.

Deer Valley also has 32 students who scored the highest possible scale score on two assessments, either the English Language Arts (ELA) and Math AzMERIT assessments or the ELA AzMERIT and AIMS Science assessments. These students represent the top one-tenth of one percent of Deer Valley students!

Art, Music, P.E. Every day.

Join us for Kindergarten Preview Night!

Thursday, February 1, 2018 5:30 - 7 p.m. at all DVUSD K-6 and K-8 schools

Students who were honored at recent Governing Board Meetings include: Braeden Baker – Norterra Canyon; Angelina Barrios – Legend Springs; Gracie Bethers – Mirage; Claire Bixby - Highland Lakes; Aiden Bowers - Highland Lakes; Jonah Cain – Highland Lakes; McKenna Carlson - Diamond Canyon; Manasa Chundi - Highland Lakes; Joshua Cohon – Terramar; Ryan Conroy - Diamond Canyon; Kiara Cox – Legend Springs; Peyton Dennis – Sierra Verde; Ivana Djukic – Norterra Canyon; Parker Halpine – Legend Springs; Andrew Hirani – Legend Springs; Lillian Kaye – Canyon Springs School; Susan Martin - Highland Lakes; Emily McCarthy – Legend Springs; Kathryn Mills - Highland Lakes; Salil Naik - Highland Lakes; Weiss O’Connor - Boulder Creek HS; Tyler Olsen - Las Brisas; Abigail Parcell - Highland Lakes; Erik Potts - Highland Lakes; John Simcoe - Las Brisas; Mesha Smith - Desert Sage; Kaydence Soltau – Sonoran Foothills; Aiden Thatcher - Canyon Springs School; Grace Chang Xu – Mountain Ridge HS; Jasmine Yao – Sonoran Foothills.

www.dvusd.org/kindergarten www.facebook.com/dvusd

SUCCESS STARTS EARLY. HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 11

EDUCATION

HOW TO TALK MONEY WITH YOUR COLLEGE STUDENT ON BREAK

W

hile college students earn their degrees, paving the way for future success in their chosen fields, they should also be paving the way for a healthy financial future.

Unfortunately, money is not always discussed at an early age.

Indeed, 36 percent of Americans say they are uncomfortable talking about money, and 18 percent say money is a taboo subject within their family, according to the American Psychological Association. As a result, many students start college without good money management skills.

What’s more, the rising cost of tuition, housing and other fees makes it even more challenging to graduate in good financial standing.

While students are home for the holidays (and perhaps hitting parents up for cash), consider initiating a productive conversation about responsible money management. Here are a few things to consider and discuss.

future financial opportunities, even potentially harming job prospects. Talk about the importance of establishing and maintaining good credit.

FUNDING COLLEGE Whether it’s a work-study program, an off-campus job CREATING A BUDGET or applying for and receiving Break down expenses to show a merit-based scholarship, where money is spent and how it’s there are many ways students wasted. Introduce the concept of can contribute to their college the 50/20/30 rule of thumb, which education financially and ease encourages budgeters to apply potential loan debt. Encourage half their monthly budget into students to investigate these fixed costs (i.e. rent, cell phone opportunities. plan), 20 percent into financial goals (i.e. car, vacation), and 30 FREE RESOURCES percent into flexible spending (i.e. Free resources exist which can food, shopping, entertainment, help get the conversation going. day-to-day expenses).

For example, consider checking out Wells Fargo’s new “Preparing BUILDING CREDIT and Paying for College” webinar Credit can influence or limit series. Families can take part

At Imagine Bell Canyon, we offer:

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HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

12 • January 2018 •

COVER STORY ANYTIME FITNESS AT NORTERRA OFFERS CONVENIENT WORKOUTS

S

tate-of-the art equipment.

24/7 access. Almost 4,000 locations worldwide.

Sound intriguing? Then Anytime Fitness is the gym just for you!

Anytime Fitness is aimed for people who try to get the most out of their workout and want to get in, get out, and on with their busy life. With your membership, you are not only gaining access to all the Anytime Fitness locations in the United States, but also the 4,000 locations worldwide, which makes it a perfect choice for someone who

travels but still prefers to get a regular exercise in their busy routine.

Getting adequate exercise in can be tough and always seems like a chore, but Anytime Fitness

“

lessens that hassle with giving you 24-hour access to their clubs. It’s always a lot easier to work around your schedule, not the gym’s. According to U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, less than five percent

According to U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, less than five percent of adults participate in 30 minutes of physical activity each day.

”

of adults participate in 30 minutes of physical activity each day, and only one in three adults receive the recommended amount of physical activity each week.

For some, the new year could be a good start for something new, so don’t become another statistic and join a gym that offers the most convenient workouts.

Branden Bunker bought his first Anytime Fitness franchise in 2013, located at Baseline and 32nd Street. Now, he currently owns and operates seven of 30+ locations in the valley, with more on the way.

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 13

Branden says Anytime Fitness is the perfect fit for professionals with busy travel schedules, or your normal, average person who is looking for a good, clean gym that isn’t overcrowded.

With all the high-quality equipment, private showers, private restrooms and even a studio for classes, Anytime Fitness is a gym for someone who wants to get in, get out, and get on with their lives. Anytime Fitness also offers private and group training.

Faith Vakameilalo, a manager at the Norterra location, who has been working there for a little over two years says she loves working at Anytime Fitness because she gets to meet a lot of different people and help them get to a healthier lifestyle.

“I think people would choose Anytime Fitness because we

COVER STORY

never get too busy, and the 24/7 worldwide access is a big bonus, plus we have over 30 locations in the valley,” said Vakameilalo.

“We also strive to make it an extremely friendly environment.

We refer to it as the Anytime Fitness family. If you are coming in at the same time, you really get to know some of the members here, which is just the start to building long-lasting relationships.”

The Norterra location attracts a fair amount people that are professionals, according to Branden.

The location is right off Interstate 17 and has moved from its original location on the corner of Happy Valley Road and Norterra Parkway Avenue to a building across from Panera Bread. The new location has the same stateof-the-art equipment, an expanded turf and free weight area plus a studio with a garage door to welcome more of an open feel.

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14 • January 2018 •

C O M M E R C I A L

REAL ESTATE

THE NEW, AND MORE MODERN, DEER VALLEY AIRPARK

By Chris Keeley

THE NEW FBI BUILDING AT 7TH STREET & DEER VALLEY:

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istorically Deer Valley Airpark had the reputation as a heavy industrial park full of contractor yards, junk-yards and trailer parks and everything else down and dirty. That impression is long gone today. In fact, with all the new construction over the last 18 years, the Airpark is newer and more modern than most areas around the Phoenix Metropolitan area. Take a drive through the Airpark and you’ll find some of the most beautiful new buildings built over the last few years: THE CHATEAU LUXE EVENT CENTER IN SPECTRUM RIDGE: THE MAHONEY GROUP BUILDING AT 19TH AVE AT LOOP 101:

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Since the completion of Loop 101 in 2001 connecting Deer Valley Airpark to Scottsdale and Glendale/Peoria the Airpark has transformed into something much more similar to Scottsdale Airpark than the heavy industrial setting of the past. The appeal of easy access via Interstate 17, Arizona State Route 51 and LOOP 101, to every part of the Phoenix Metro market has created an explosion of growth over the last two decades.

Every type of business has moved into the area, with many locating their corporate headquarters in the airpark.

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HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 15

R E S I D E N T I A L

REAL ESTATE

NEW YEAR, NEW MORTGAGE CHANGES

By Mary Gardner-Siler

T

his January brings big changes for home buyers – from a rise in loan limits, a trend toward more interactive online applications, Arizona-based down payment assistance programs and the type of demographic information collected on a mortgage application.

The most exciting change for our market is the increase in limits for conventional loans from $424,100 to $453,100. Over the last few years, homes have appreciated in value and sales price. More loans will fall into the conventional category with this higher limit, which should lead to easier qualification and more lending to consumers in this price range.

Buyers are also going to encounter easier, faster and, most importantly, secure interactive online mortgage applications. Locally based Homeowners Financial Group USA, LLC, for example, is implementing a program entitled “Consumer Connect,” which allows a borrower to fill out an online application with questions designed to alleviate confusion and find options that fit his or her unique situation. Personal documents, such as paystubs, tax

returns, and bank statements, are uploaded into a secure portal allowing unprecedented protection and ease. A consumer can even take and upload pictures of documents with their cell phone.

Additionally, we will witness comprehensive changes to the two most popular down payment assistance programs in our state, HOME Plus Program and HOME in Five Advantage Program. These programs traditionally used straight grants for down payment assistance to borrowers who met the income, sales price, and loan amount limits.

In 2018, these grants will convert to a three-year, no interest, no payment, deferred soft second mortgage that will be forgiven after three years of home ownership as long as no sale or refinance occurs.

The second mortgage is forgiven at a rate of 1/36 per month over three years.

and ensure loans are being offered to all qualifying applicants.

This year, you will see the mortgage industry adapt to the desires of 21st century home buyers and a healing housing market.

Mary Gardner-Siler is a Licensed Mortgage Professional NMLS#218976 at Homeowners Financial Group in Scottsdale with 16 years in the industry and is also a veteran of the United States Air Force.

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Lastly, changes to the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data collection will ensue. HMDA is a federal law that requires certain financial institutions to provide mortgage data to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The expanded collection of race, ethnicity and gender information allows consumers to more clearly identify themselves

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HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

16 • January 2018 •

FINANCE

PHOENIX RESIDENTS CAN HELP LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD FOR STUDENTS THROUGH SCHOOL TAX CREDIT DONATIONS

T

hree of Phoenix’s 29 public school districts received half of all contributions in 2016. One school district received as little as $3 per student, while another received $135 per student.

Taxpayers looking to direct their year-end giving can make a difference with a dollar-for-dollar tax contribution to a Phoenix public school in need. Arizona law allows taxpayer donations to help fund after school programs and extracurricular activities—like band, sports, speech and debate, and field trips— but schools are not benefiting equally from these donations.

Although tax credit contributions increased by nine percent in 2016, the inequity still exists. In fact, last year, one Phoenix school

district received as little as $3 per student, while another received $135 per student.

extracurricular activities may not be fully funded by school districts because of limited funding.

“Until public schools receive the funding they need, Phoenix residents can help address inequity in our schools by making informed tax credit donations,” said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. “When we invest in our students and their futures, we also invest in the future economic success of our great city.”

With the help of donations received from the School Tax Credit Program, schools like Kenilworth School in the Phoenix Elementary School District #1, can send their students on field trips for free—at no cost to their families or any impact to the school’s funds.

Data from the Arizona Department of Revenue, Office of Economic Research & Analysis shows that three out of 29 school districts in Phoenix received half of all contributions. It also shows that 20 percent of school districts received fewer donations than the previous year. After school programs and

“In the absence of the Tax Credit donations, these opportunities would be very complicated to produce and would cost the families money out of pocket,” said Kenilworth School Principal Anthony Pietrangeli. “The tax credit donations have allowed us to maximize the number of students that participate because the financial burden is not on the families.”

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Arizona tax law (ARS 431089.01) allows taxpayers a tax credit of up to $200, or $400 per married couple, if they contribute to extracurricular activities in public schools. Arizona taxpayers may donate less than $200 and still be eligible to receive the state tax credit in the amount of their donation. The amount taxpayers donate will be the amount they may claim as a state tax credit.

Without funds from tax credit contributions, students are missing out on a well-rounded, enriching educational experience.

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18 • January 2018 •

MOVIES

MOVIE REVIEWS Reviewed by A.D. Beal

animated film in a while, just for the film’s message. It is something both THE SHAPE OF WATER kids and adults can learn from, which In 1962, a mute janitor develops a Pixar has always been great at providrelationship with a sea creature that is ing. Of course, the beautiful animathe center of a series of government tion and charming voice acting can’t experiments, and attempts to break go without mention, with the former him out of the laboratory he is held in. being the best I’ve seen an animated feature provide in a while. In addiA love story between a human and a tion, each of the characters are discreature that resembles the Creature tinct in personality and design. And From The Black Lagoon is the type of the music, both the score by Michael film that few filmmakers could make Giacchino and the original songs, will you feel the connection between the stay in your head for a long time. two leads, but The Shape Of Water shows that Guillermo del Toro is THE DISASTER ARTIST one that can pull it off. Not just the The Disaster Artist is the true story of central plot, but so many aspects of the making of the 2003 cult film “The the film sound strange on paper, yet Room”. are executed perfectly. del Toro and Vanessa Taylor’s (Game of Thrones) Somehow, the most inspiring film I’ve screenplay spends time with each of seen this year is about the making of the central characters, including Miwhat is considered the best worst film chael Shannon’s villainous Strickland ever. The Disaster Artist leaves out a and even the creature (referred to as lot from the book it is based on, but The Asset), which makes them more James Franco (who directs and stars interesting. The cinematography by as Room director and star Tommy Dan Lausten is also great, especially Wiseau) still manages to tell the story how each setting has its own feeling, in full detail. The great thing about helped by the different color tints. The this film is how it doesn’t go for an relationship between Sally Hawkins’ intentional “so bad it’s good” feel that Elisa and Doug Jones’ The Asset is The Room has, and plays it serious. at the center of the story, and you Franco portrays Wiseau as intimidatbelieve every moment of their relaing and rather unlikable at moments, tionship, which is the film’s biggest but still someone you can surprisingly accomplishment. root for. The rest of the cast is also good, even if they don’t receive as COCO much screen time as Tommy and Greg A young aspiring musician travels to Sestero, who is played by James’ the Land of the Dead to get the apbrother Dave. It’s a film that made me proval of his great grandfather when want to write and direct even more his family rejects any type of music. after seeing it, and could make you want to pursue your passion more I think this is probably my favorite after seeing it as well.

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20 • January 2018 •

YOUR HOME BUGSY SAYS… DO YOUR HOMEWORK WHEN LOOKING FOR A PEST SERVICE

H

appy New Year! It is that time of year when its time to set a course for how you intend to enjoy 2018. Many of you are considering which streaming service to use, what charities you want to support and whether renewing your gym membership is really a good investment. One thing you may not have on the top of your list is how you intend to deal with the variety of pest issues you face throughout the year. I know it’s not as exciting as choosing a wine-of-the-month club, but let’s face it- a good pinot won’t get your heart pumping like finding a scorpion in your bathroom. To kick-off our new monthly series of articles in this publication, we at Eco-Logic Management Inc. decided that this would be a good time to help you choose a pest service.

there are a few criteria that you can use to locate what works for you.

If you search for “pest control services in Phoenix Arizona” you will generate 812,000 results. What you find at the top of the list are paid ads by several of the available vendors. It can be daunting to search through them to find which one is right for you but

ECO-FRIENDLINESS Many of you are trying to be responsible citizens and adopt lifestyles that leave our world a better place for our kids. There are three primary types of pest services available to you depending on your issue, the results you want and who can best deliver them. The first is considered Traditional. Traditional pest control companies often use proven but harsh chemicals to get rid of bugs, and these have a bigger impact on the environment. The bug business is an old profession and many technicians have learned what works and continue to use these chemicals in their treatments.

The next type is a Green company. Green pest control companies use methods or materials to get rid of pests that are friendlier to the environment, such as chemicals with lower toxicity or natural products.

The third type of company is Multi-faceted. Many pest control companies today use a combination of strong toxins when infestations are particularly large and hard to treat, or when they have not responded to less harsh treatments, and eco-friendly, more gentle treatments when infestations are not particularly difficult or when pest problems are mild. We suggest researching a combination of these types to find out their programs and effectiveness to see what will deliver satisfactory results.

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TYPE OF PEST You usually don’t think about a pest company until you notice a problem. It could be ants in the kitchen, scorpions around the house, bed bugs in your bed, pigeons messing all over your house or those pesky rats who are digging up your lawn or chewing your expensive A/C wiring. Clients don’t call us because they have finished their honey-do lists and think, “I wonder how my life would be better if I contract with a pest service.” You are calling us because you have a problem and each problem is unique, just as each pest company is unique in solving your problem.

the one that works for you and rids you of your problem. As much as we hate to pay for anything we don’t really need, it does pay to choose the right frequency that will keep you home pest free.

EXPERIENCE As a good consumer, you often find that experience counts a lot. While shopping for pest companies (like you do for a mechanic or dentist) it is best to find one who has been in business a while. It is just simple logic that the more a technician practices his practice, the more proficient he becomes.

REVIEWS Right in line with looking at experience is considering results. Today, with all the social media connections we have, you can cut right to the chase by looking at Yelp, Groupon, Facebook or Nextdoor reviews. These tell real client stories about their experience and can help you avoid risks and find consistently delivered results. They also help you find local companies which can improve your odds of finding a company that is nearby and can be responsive to your needs as well as one that provides excellent customer service.

I hope these tips offer you a roadmap in finding a good pest control company. As monthly contributors to this publication, we aim to share our advice, experiences and we are sure you will find each month’s discussion one you can benefit from.

If you have questions, comments or wish to share a pest related story, contact Eco-Logic Management Inc. at paul@ecologicmgmt.com or feel free to call us at (480) 513-1989. Ask for Michael or Paul.

FREQUENCY Another consideration is the frequency of service.

Once again, this is often dictated by the pest problem you are having and, let’s face it, you don’t want us there any more than you need to fix the problem. This does beckon a discussion on preventative versus reactive program and you should ask each pest service candidate what they believe is the right cadence for you. Most companies offer monthly, everyother-month, quarterly and as-needed services.

The most important take-away for you is to find

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 21

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22 • January 2018 •

THINGS TO DO THE ART OF ICE CREAM EXPERIENCE WHEN: Daily through February 28, 2018 WHERE: 4224 N. Craftsman Court Scottsdale, AZ WHAT: The Art of Ice Cream Experience is an instagrammable experience celebrating America’s love of ice cream. You will find instagram worthy photo opportunities in each individually themed exhibit room, each paying tribute to a favorite ice cream flavor or frozen treat. In each room you will have an opportunity to engage with the exhibit through colorful and interactive art. Ice cream treats and samples are provided throughout the experience. Phone: (480) 6665545 WEBSITE: artoficecreamexperience.com/

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$15

ADULT CASTING CALL 9 AM SAT, JAN 6 A FUNNY THING HAPPENED ON THE WAY TO THE FORUM

BOOK BY BURT SHEVELOVE & LARRY GELBART MUSIC & LYRICS BY STEPHEN SONDHEIM DIRECTED BY BARBARA SURLOFF

Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)

JAN 26 - FEB 3

1611 W Whispering Wind Dr Suite #9, Phoenix, AZ 85085 info@StarlightCommunityTheater.com 623-252-6815

www.StarlightCommunityTheater.com

DINOSAURS IN THE DESERT WHEN: Daily through April 30 WHERE: Phoenix Zoo/Arizona Center for Nature Conservation, 455 N. Galvin Parkway Papago Park Phoenix, AZ WHAT: 23 prehistoric creatures have descended onto the Zoo’s Desert Lives Trail.

This will be an unforgettable self-guided expedition into the land of the lost you won’t want to miss. Phone: (602) 286-3800. Price: Adults $24.95; Children 3-13 $14.95.

WEBSITE: www.phoenixzoo. org/event-items/dinosaurs-inthe-desert/ POMPEII: THE EXHIBITION WHEN: Daily through May 28 WHERE: Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ WHAT: In this blockbuster exhibition, guests become time travelers, transported to the bustling commercial port and strategic military and trading center of Pompeii.

Over 200 precious artifacts on loan from the unparalleled collection of the Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy, including wall-sized frescoes, mosaics, marble and bronze sculptures, jewelry, statues and ancient Roman coins, bring to life how Pompeii’s people lived, loved, work, worshiped and celebrated. Phone: (602) 716-2000. Price: General admission plus $11.95.

WEBSITE: www.azscience.org/attractions/ featured-exhibition/pompeii-the-exhibition/ THE 46TH ANNUAL FLAGG GEM AND MINERAL SHOW WHEN: January 5-7, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm WHERE: Mesa Community College, 833 W Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85202 WHAT: The area’s largest gem and mineral show features free activities and samples for children and more than 120 vendors selling gems, minerals, fossils, beads, jewelry and lapidary supplies.Price: Free. Phone: (602) 403-3031 WEBSITE: flaggmineralfoundation.org/home/flagg-gem-and-mineral-show/ BARRETT-JACKSON COLLECTOR CAR AUCTION WHEN: January 13-21 WHERE: Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd Scottsdale, AZ WHAT: The automotive event of the year returns to WestWorld of Scottsdale as Barrett-Jackson presents its 47th Annual Scottsdale Auction.

Widely regarded as a barometer of the collector car industry, the auctions have evolved over the years into world-class automotive lifestyle events where thousands of the world’s most soughtafter, unique and valuable automobiles cross the block in front of a global audience — in person and on live national and international television. Witness auction action at its best, capture the car of your dreams, learn more about collector cars through “Behind the

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com

• January 2018 • 23

THINGS TO DO

Hobby” symposiums, mingle with celebrities, experience heart-stopping thrill rides in the latest vehicles from America’s top automakers, shop in the vast Exhibitor Marketplace and more. Phone: (480) 421-6694. Time: See website for schedule of events. Price: $25-$180 at the gate with discounts for seniors, military, students WEBSITE: www.barrett-jackson.com

SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION MEETING WHEN: January 18, 6:30 pm WHERE: Deer Valley Airport, 702 W Deer Valley Rd., Phoenix, AZ WHAT: The Barry M. Goldwater Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution meet at the on the third Thursday of each month, (except for the months of June, July, August and December). Most people arrive at 6:00 pm to order from the menu with our meeting starting at 6:30 pm. All Compatriots (local or visiting), their spouses, prospective members and guests are encouraged to attend.

WEBSITE: www.azssar.org/goldwater THE FAB FOUR WHEN: January 19, 8:00 pm WHERE: Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St. P.O. Box 1466 Mesa, AZ WHAT: The Fab Four is the ultimate Beatles show. They have amazed audiences around the world with their uncanny, note-for-note, live renditions of the Beatles’ catalogue. Hosted by “Ed Sullivan,” this incredible multimedia stage production, complete with three costume changes, will make you think you are experiencing the real thing. If you want to see the best Beatles show in the world, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four. Phone: (480) 644-6511. Price: $29.50 - $57.50.

WEBSITE: www.mesaartscenter.com PHOENIX BALLOON FESTIVAL 2018 WHEN: January 26-28, Friday 4 pm-8 pm; Saturday 7 am-8 pm; Sunday 7 am-10 am WHERE: Fear Farm Festival Grounds, 2209 N. 99th ave Phoenix, AZ WHAT: The sky will be filled with colorful hot-air balloons participate in thrilling “Hare & Hound” races from the grassy fields on the Fear Farm Festival Grounds for a spectacular sight of mass and color. Spectators can walk on the field and experience the balloons inflation and lift off. Photo taking is invited. Desert Glows on Friday and Saturday evenings are the most popular attended events. A field full of illuminated, tethered, hot air balloons will glow in time to music.

Enjoy hot air balloon rides, a family fun zone, hot air balloon tether rides, fireworks (Saturday night only), live entertainment, sampling, and many other exciting events.

You can also enjoy retail shopping, as well as a variety of

marketplace vendors and commercial exhibits for purchases or browsing.

Bring your appetite, as there will be a huge variety of foods favorites available to purchase. Phone: (602) 622-2518. Price: $15 after 4 p.m.

Saturday; all other times $10. Kids 12 and under free.

WEBSITE: www.phoenixballoonfestival.com 2ND ANNUAL WINTERFEST AT HERITAGE PARK WHEN: January 27, 10 am to 2 pm WHERE: Black Canyon Heritage Park, 33955 S. Old Black Canyon Highway, Black Canyon City, AZ WHAT: Celebrate our region’s cultural, historical, recreational and environmental resources in a family-friendly environment. This event offers curious participants of all ages and physical abilities a variety of discovery experiences to instill respect, responsibility, and stewardship for the surrounding area. While at the Park, you can tour the Old Cañon School Museum and stroll around the Heritage Park while enjoying an afternoon of live music with Jeff Paris. Items of special interest to children of all ages are: Smokey the Bear and live reptiles! Exhibitors include Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service (with Smokey the Bear), Arizona State Parks (with free Park passes), Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary, Sierra Club – Grand Canyon Chapter, Arizona Audubon, Desert Awareness, Desert Foothills Land Trust, Phoenix Herpetological Society (with live reptiles), and more. Local artists will be selling their crafts and arts.

Refreshments will be available for purchase thanks to Nora Jean’s Koffee Kitchen and Kona Ice. Activities with the Black Canyon City Community Library, Daisy Mountain Fire Department and Friends of the Aqua Fria National Monument will both entertain and educate. To ask questions or have an exhibit, contact Ann Hutchinson at info@or 623-293-8628.

WEBSITE: www.blackcanyonheritagepark.org WASTE MANAGEMENT PHOENIX OPEN WHEN: January 29-February 4 WHERE: Scottsdale Tournament Players Club (TPC Scottsdale), 17020 North Hayden Road Scottsdale, AZ WHAT: Annually sporting the largest crowds on the PGA Tour, the Waste Management Phoenix Open has gained legendary status on Tour for being unlike any other golf tournament. It starts with the unbelievable golf played by the likes of Rickie Fowler, Brandt Snedeker, Bubba Watson, Phil Mickelson, and Keegan Bradley on the beautiful TPC Scottsdale and ends with the biggest galleries on Tour. If you are visiting for the first time, hole 16 is a must-see. With stadium seating and crowds exceeding 16,000, it makes the fan experience at this hole more comparable to a Phoenix Suns game than a traditional PGA Tournament. Visit their website for more information including a list of events and concerts throughout the week. Phone: (602) 870-0163. Price: Monday-Tuesday: Free; Wednesday-Sunday: $40.

SEND US YOUR EVENTS!

We want to publish your Deer Valley/North Phoenix events! Submit press releases or event descriptions to news@egpublishing.com Be sure to include event title, date, time, place, cost and details including contact number or website.

The deadline for the February issue is January 10.

HYPER LOCAL NEWS FOR THE PHOENIX NORTH VALLEY / deervalleytimes.com