15 minute read
Kids’ Corner
KIDS’ CORNER HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT SUMMER CAMP FOR YOUR KID
By Jill Frier
The summer months are coming soon and parents all over the Valley are scrambling to find ideas for ways to keep their kids busy or provide weekly childcare while they are out of school. One solution many parents take advantage of is summer camp. Here are some tips for finding the right summer camp for your kids this year.
WHY SUMMER CAMP IS IMPORTANT
Camp is a place where kids are allowed to safely roam and play in a way the often aren’t in their own neighborhoods these days. Whether they are at day camp all summer, specialty camp for a week or two, or overnight camp, kids get to let loose and have fun with other kids outside of a school or home environment. Not only are summer camps a great way for your kids to have fun, get exercise and stay active during the months they are out of school, they also teach important life lessons such as how to make new friends and gain independence. Here are a few of the types of camps to consider for your child this summer: • Academic • Sports • Overnight • Outdoors • Science • Arts and music • Animals and zoos • Childcare for working parents • Just for Fun and Social Interaction
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT CAMP
There are tons of options, both in-state and out, for parents and kids to choose from when deciding which type of camp to pick. You can choose anything from traditional overnight camp with lakeside cabins in the woods, to science camp where kids go daily to conduct experiments and learn about different scientific and STEM-related topics, to soccer, gymnastics, karate or basketball. Some things to consider when deciding on the right camp include the following:
Know Your Goal: Do you need full-day care for your child every day, or do you just want to get them out of the house for a while to have fun with other kids? Do you want them to get plenty of exercise? Learn a new skill? Grow academically? Improve their musical or artistic abilities? Pick a camp that meets the goals you have for your child.
Know Your Child’s Interests: Discuss the different types of camps available with your child and see what things interest them. Understand the age range suggested by the camp and any skill sets they may be required to have. You can broaden their horizons by letting them try new things, but be aware of their limitations and the things they don’t like. For example, if your kid hates team sports, soccer camp may not be a great idea.
Know Your Budget: Summer camp can cost a lot of money, especially if you send your kid to a specialized place. Be sure that you consider all of the expenses involved, including equipment, meals and extras. There are also a variety of options that you can make work to fit your budget. Look for non-profit organizations, public parks and recreation venues, community centers and libraries for lower cost options.
Be Aware of Time Constraints and Locations:
Summer camp can be a big help to working parents, but note the drop off and pick up times to make sure they work with your schedule. Know the location of the camp, to make sure you can get to and from day camp and that the times and routes work for your family. Also be sure to plan around any known vacation or time off you have. Timing is a pretty key element when picking a camp.
Do Your Homework: The time to start doing homework for the right camp for your kid is now, before camp schedules get booked up and vacation time is planned. Do your research, read the fine print, talk to your child and make sure that the camp or camps you pick work best for everyone in your family.
Be sure to check out Ladybug’s Blog (www. LadybugsBlog.com) for many more ideas for having fun outside and out of the house this summer in Arizona!
DAILY ADVENTURES & FUN - 2½-12 YEARS!
CREATIVE CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION • Homework Club • Indoor/Outdoor Activities • Crafts, Field Trips • Preschool • Childcare • Before & After School Care • Summer & Holiday Camps • Preschool • Childcare • Curriculum that Embraces Your Child • Family Owned Since 1996 3020 E. Cactus Rd. • 602.992.3640 Open Mon-Fri 6am-6:30pm • www.creativecenteraz.com
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NORTH 32ND WELCOMES
TAPHOUSE KITCHEN
SERVING UP 40 BEERS ON TAP, HANDCRAFTED DISHES “If you build it, they will come.” This oft quoted line from the 1989 hit movie “Field of While the construction profession brought them together, an abiding respect and shared interests have kept theless, they love their shared New York City roots. Perhaps being born in one of the world’s preeminent food “For about six months,” said Ferrantello, “Piccione would always chime in: ‘There’s a piece of property availDreams” perhaps reflects the journey them together. capitals predestined their success in able, and we should really have our of two good friends and businessmen. the Phoenix restaurant market. second location there. It’s going to be After together growing one restaurant “We’re accustomed to working with a great location and the area needs it concept, they were ready to take it to each other and, as a result, we’ve On St. Patrick’s Day of 2014, the since there’s nothing around.’” the next level with a new second loca- developed a close friendship,” said original TapHouse Kitchen opened tion, calling it their “flagship” and in Ferrantello. “We have the same mind its doors in Scottsdale. The family- Ever cautious, Ferrantello kept the North 32nd Street neighborhood. and the same likes. We both like cars, owned business was such a sweet bursting Piccione’s bubble and said pleasing people and doing the right success that in five short years, they they needed to wait before taking The story of Nic Ferrantello and Tom thing. We’re also both particular and opened the new Shea location. The that significant step. Finally, the Piccione, co-owners of TapHouse detailed oriented; we’re a great team. story goes that Ferrantello and Pic- dialogue changed; Ferrantello was Kitchen, located at 3131 E. Shea, goes Tom is like the big brother I never cione entered the restaurant business ready to see the property. Once a back 30 years. Piccione is a general had.” as investors in the first TapHouse former restaurant, the space appeared contractor who has been building Kitchen in Scottsdale. then rundown and abandoned. And custom homes in Phoenix since 1982; Consequently, like any brothers who Piccione was right when he said the Ferrantello a plastering subcontractor tease each other, Ferrantello is fond of “We quickly learned that we needed neighborhood could use more dining who has been at his trade in the Valley describing himself as the brains of the to do and be more than mere inves- options. since 1978. operation while Piccione, the quieter tors,” said Ferrantello. “We needed of the two, is the brawn. to be owner/operators. Ultimately The southwest corner of Shea BouIn 1982, Ferrantello’s father and we bought out the other entity and levard and North 32nd Street, not Piccione were introduced and Ferran- Life is said to offer no coincidences. haven’t looked back.” far where Piccione raised his family tello’s dad began plastering Piccone’s Ferrantello was born in Brooklyn; and continues to reside, became the custom homes. The younger Ferrantel- Piccione was born in Queens. Despite As they immersed themselves into second TapHouse Kitchen. It also lo joined his father’s business in 1986, hailing from neighboring boroughs, running TapHouse Kitchen Scottsdale, became a personal mission to bring and he and Piccione have collaborated their 14-year age difference basically two years later, Piccione broached the a great neighborhood restaurant to a on projects ever since. thwarted any earlier meetings. None- subject of expansion. great neighborhood.
“We purchased the land,” said Ferrantello, “and we acted as our own general contractors. We put a lot of sweat equity into this location and when I say sweat, I really mean it -- literally and not just verbally. Everything about the architectural design as well as the interior design of the restaurant was our idea.”
The new spot boasts interior and exterior features which were built from the ground up. The custom, 7,000-foot interior is a contemporary, industrial design mixed with warm elements such as reclaimed barnwood, comfortable furnishings and an indoor/outdoor patio with a fireplace and views of Piestewa Peak.
The patio seamlessly transforms into a private dining room, accommodating up to 40 guests, possibly more, for birthday parties, receptions, even school functions.
Upholstered horseshoe booths and banquettes, as well as a beautiful, expansive bar with striking Brazilian caramel and black granite adds to the carefully selected custom touches throughout. A lively chef’s kitchen offers guests wide-open views of the culinary activity underway and is colorfully flanked by an authentic, red-tiled pizza forno.
Beer connoisseurs will gravitate to TapHouse Kitchen’s collection of 40 craft beers on tap, mostly from local breweries. By contrast, TapHouse Kitchen Scottsdale features 20 craft beers on tap, plus three bourbons and five wines on tap.
“We’ve expanded the craft beer market, which is huge,” said Ferrantello. “While the majority of our beers are local, we have some from California and Colorado.”
In addition to serving lunch, dinner and “hoppy” hour, the new TapHouse Kitchen location plans to introduce Saturday and Sunday brunch beginning March 2. (The Scottsdale location has been serving brunch for years to a loyal following.) Diners can anticipate weekend brunch favorites such as Eggs Benedict, Croque Monsieur, Pastrami Hash and Biscuits and Gravy.
Together, Ferrantello and Piccione work hands-on daily at both locations. It’s a family owned and operated small business, with Piccione’s daughter, Jamie, serving as General Manager at the new locale.
Delicious food in a fun and relaxing atmosphere remains the goal. Ferrantello and Piccione work side by side with Jamie and the kitchen crew as they strive for culinary perfection. The focus is to ensure both locations operate at the highest standard, and the mission is to deliver diners a memorable experience. That’s how a winning restaurant is built. The ‘quality first’ approach is key to TapHouse Kitchen’s prosperity.
What elevates TapHouse Kitchen is the caliber of food. Cooking with fresh ingredients on-site every day means sourcing as many products locally as possible. Among perennial favorites are the Beef Short Rib, TapHouse Signature Burger, Chicken Parmesan and “Fish Fry Everyday Baby!!”
Both locations serve what Nic refers to as Modern American Cuisine. However, Shea adds authentic pizza as well. “We have a giant traditional pizza oven at our new flagship location,” said Ferrantello. “From the get-go, we wanted the pizza oven, and our pies are divine.”
Ferrantello is of Sicilian descent, so diners are in for a delectable treat as they sample the yummiest pizza this side of the Atlantic from Sicily and Italy.
TapHouse Kitchen’s goal is to be the favorite neighborhood restaurant; a place to relax and have a good time while savoring high quality food and exploring craft beers.
Says Nic: “Tom always refers to the restaurant as an extension of his home. We sincerely want our guests to feel welcome when they walk in, and we want them to walk out with a smile on their face.”
Photos by Timothy Fox Photography.
TapHouse Kitchen Phoenix 3131 E. Shea Boulevard 602-482-2800 TapHouse Kitchen Scottsdale 6137 N. Scottsdale Rd, #108 480-656-0012 www.taphousekitchen.com
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE HELPFUL TIPS: MAKING MOVES AND CREATING SPACE
By Allison Barnett Associate Broker My Home Group
There is no doubt that moving can be stressful. Here are a few tips to make it a little more bearable…
Packing: It is important to create one box that has key items to get you through the first couple of days at your new home with things like toilet paper, paper towels, utensils (maybe plastic), plates (maybe paper), trash bags, dish soap, sponge, rags, all-purpose cleaner, and probably a few other key items for your family.
Unpacking: Set realistic goals for unpacking. Can you only handle three boxes a day? Great…do what you can. Remember – it didn’t all get packed in one day either! By setting an attainable goal, you will feel less stressed. Movers: While it is certainly possible to make moves without movers, it sure is easier with assistance. While movers may offer to give you a quote by looking at photos online, it is best to have them give an in-person estimate to ensure it is accurate. Your mover trying to double the price of your job mid-move is not ideal and an in-person bid will help prevent this.
Space: In your new home, it is a good idea to start creating spaces without boxes early. Two of the easiest rooms to make this happen are the bedroom(s) and living room. Just as it is important to not try to tackle all of the unpacking in one day, it will be nearly impossible to rid all of the rooms of boxes quickly. By focusing on a few key rooms in your home, you will create spaces that are relaxing reprieves from the task of dealing with unpacking boxes. Being able to go in your bedroom, close the door, and
MARKET SUMMARY 85028
Median Estimated Home Value
$413,860
12-Month Change in Median Estimated Home Value
Median Sales Price
Media Listing Price 12-Month Change in Median Listing Price Median Days on Market 12-Month Change in Median Days on Market
6.1%
$397,898 $409,000 5.1%
60
-16.7%
85032
$$269,830 5.8%
$268,750 $274,000 11.7%
52
-3.7%
Source: RPR, Realtors Property Resource®, LLC. Data is based on data from January 2019.
not see boxes within the first few days of moving will feel really good.
Allison Barnett is a licensed associate broker with My Home Group in both Arizona and California. She is also the managing partner of North 32nd, Inc. which is bringing revitalization of the community through strategic partnerships with the City of Phoenix as well as local businesses. AllisonJBarnett.com | North32nd.com
Allison Barnett
480.331.7815 allison@north32nd.com allisonjbarnett.com north32nd.com AZBR 654152000 | CABRE 01849212
@allisonjbarnett
Realtor®+Yogi+Infl uencer
Associate Broker @ My Home Group in AZ & CA Managing Partner @ North 32nd, Inc. Founder of North 32nd Home Tour Paradise Valley Village Planning Committee Member 2016: PHX Impact Volunteer 2016+2017: SAAR 40 under 40
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2710 E Yucca St 85028 $400,000 Represent Seller (Owner/Agent)
3408 E Sunnyside Dr 85028 $339,888 Represented Seller
2408 E Brown St 85028 $468,000 Represented Seller
3029 E Cheryl Dr 85028 $389,000 Represented Buyer
1% of commissions will be donated to:
2350 E Mountain View Dr 85028 $1,125,000 Represented Buyer
Success means we go to sleep at night knowing that our talents and abilities were used in a way that served others. – Marianne Williamson
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE
27 QUICK AND EASY FIX UPS TO SELL YOUR PHOENIX HOME FAST AND FOR TOP DOLLAR
Phoenix - Because your home may well be In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial your largest asset, selling it is probably one of disappointment or worse, a financial disaster the most important decisions you will make when selling your home. Using a common-sense in your life. And once you have made that decision, approach, you will get the straight facts about what you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price can make or break the sale of your home. in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the You owe it to yourself to learn how these important market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared tips will give you the competitive edge to get your as possible. home sold fast and for the most amount of money.
To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace.
Through these 27 tips you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the best profit possible. Order your free report today. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-844-310-9514 and enter 3224. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get your free special report NOW. This report is courtesy of Todd Gulinson of RE/ MAX Fine Properties. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2019
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