City News

SCOTTSDALE SHIFTS PHOTO ENFORCEMENT LOCATIONS BASED ON SPEED, CRASH DATA By Holly Walter Photo enforcement systems on Thom- • Frank Lloyd Wright westbound at The study added to a growing body Public Information Officer as Road eastbound at Hayden Road Greenway-Hayden Loop of research conducted both in the Valand McDowell Road eastbound at • Indian School Road westbound at ley and nationwide that demonstrates SPEEDING AND RED-LIGHT Scottsdale Road will be deactivated. Hayden Road the effectiveness of photo enforceCAMERAS WORK IN TANDEM ment for reducing traffic violations TO IMPROVE SAFETY – A FACT The following four new systems are Choosing which locations are no longer and crashes. WELL-SUPPORTED IN SCOTTS- now activated: needed photo enforcement, and selectDALE AND WHY THE CITY HAS • Scottsdale Road southbound at Pin- ing new locations was a data-based de- “If you reduce the problem of speedDEACTIVATED TWO LOCATIONS nacle Peak Road cision made after city traffic engineers ing, you automatically reduce the AND ADDED FOUR NEW INTER- • Shea Boulevard westbound at 92nd analyzed an aggregate of collision, problem of people violating red lights SECTION SAFETY CAMERAS. Street red light/speeding violations, collision because they can stop,” said Scottseverity and traffic volume data. sdale Transportation Director Paul “The technology helps us enforce traffic laws and allows us to maxi- Scottsdale’s fixed intersection safety mize the deployment of our patrol of- cameras operate 24/7 and capture both ficers throughout the city,” said Alex red-light violators and those exceeding Ristuccia, Scottsdale Police Program the speed limit by 11 miles-per-hour Manager of Photo Enforcement. or more. For the first 30 days of operaScottsdale has used photo enforcement who speed through or run red-lights systems since 1996. A 2017 study by at the new locations. The fixed interLee Engineering, an independent firm section safety cameras will work in specializing in research and foren- conjunction with the mobile vans and sic traffic engineering, showed that portable photo enforcement towers, overall crashes decreased by 23 to 24 which rotate around the city based on percent, and crashes related specifi- citizen complaints and speed data. cally to red-light running decreased 33 to 35 percent at the city’s existing All violations and citations are intersections with red-light and speed- reviewed and approved by police ing photo enforcement. employees.

AG BRNOVICH WARNS OF SPIKE IN RESALE SCAMS INVOLVING TIMESHARES IN MEXICO ATTORNEY GENERAL MARK BRNOVICH States, often using the names of businesses regIS WARNING ARIZONANS ABOUT A RISE istered with the Arizona Corporation CommisIN SOPHISTICATED SCAMS RELATED TO sion that have been inactive for years. Scammers THE SALE OF TIMESHARE INTERESTS IN will also create new, slick websites to appear MEXICO. legitimate, and populate internet sites with fake reviews. In some cases, con artists have even Scammers often posing as real estate brokers posed as part of Mexico’s government and say contact consumers and claim that a buyer would the Mexican government has set up a fund to aslike to purchase or rent the consumer’s existing sist victims of timeshare fraud in Mexico. timeshare interest at a location in Mexico. The con artists tell consumers that a buyer wants to “Our office has seen an increase in consumer pay tens of thousands of dollars for their time- complaints involving timeshare resale scams in share, but the consumer must pay money upfront Mexico,” said Attorney General Mark Brnovich. for taxes, or put money into an escrow account. “These scammers know some people are desperThe consumer is directed to wire money to ac- ate to get out of their timeshares and prey upon counts in Mexico. The scammers will attempt that vulnerability to steal their money. Never to continue to extract money from the consumer wire or send money to people you don’t know or until the consumer runs out of money or realizes to a stranger in another country.” they’ve been scammed. If you believe you are a victim of consumer Although these scams are typically operated by fraud, you can file a complaint online with the individuals within the country of Mexico, scam- Attorney General’s Office. You can also contact mers frequently conceal their identity by using the Consumer Information and Complaints Unit the name of legitimate businesses in the United in Phoenix at (602) 542-5763. Basha. tion, warnings will be issued to drivers

FIRE OFFICIALS URGE RESIDENTS IN URBAN INTERFACE TO REDUCE THREAT

By Scottsdale Fire Department

RECENT RAINS HAVE GREENED UP OUR branches from the roof and patio areas of the

DESERT, WHICH WILL SOON BECOME DRY FUEL AS OUR SUMMER HEATS UP. In Scottsdale, with so many homes in urban interface

Even with nature’s threat, it is possible to minimize the community’s risk with these types of incidents. 6ft from the desert floor and remove overgrown

areas, these dangers are especially concerning. home.

• Address and remove the accumulation of dead branches or leaves, especially near structures.

• Do not keep flammable items or allow excessive foliage to collect underneath wooden decks and other combustible overhangs.

The following steps can be taken to protect property from a wildland fire.

• Create a 30’ foot defensible safety zone around individual homes and properties by removing flash fuels, thinning overgrown vegetation in these defensible space areas, and removing dry and dead vegetation around the home.

• Manage the vegetation fuel load by initially focusing on and removing invasive plants, especially around permanent residential structures.

• Trim the lower branches on trees, up to 4ft to • Keep eaves, gutters, and roofs clear of leaves and combustible debris.

• Keep a garden hose connected to exterior hose bibs and available for use.

• Be keenly aware of potential ignition sources like fireplaces, BBQ grills, improper disposal of smoking materials and fireworks.

• If you believe you see a wildfire incident, call 911 immediately while the fire is still small and before you take action yourself. If you are a Scottsdale resident, you can schedule a free wildland safety inspection or learn how your community can become “Firewise” by calling SFD at 480-312-FIRE (3473).

ENHANCED ARIZONA 511 TRAVELER INFORMATION SYSTEM LAUNCHED ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY PROVIDES EASY ACCESS TO ROAD CONDITIONS

A MODERNIZED, MOBILEFRIENDLY ARIZONA 511 TRAVEL INFORMATION SYSTEM WEBSITE AND PHONE LINE ARE NOW AVAILABLE FROM THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION. The new system uses the latest technology to provide a customized experience with realtime updates from ADOT, the premier source of information on Arizona’s highway system.

The new AZ511.gov website allows users to save their favorite routes and most used traffic cameras. Before leaving for a destination, drivers can log onto AZ511.gov to view incidents along their route, get estimated travel times to their destination and receive alternate route suggestions. Travelers may set up text or email alerts for their routes. Users can also call the 511 phone line to hear personalized updates. The 511 phone line is now easier to navigate and voice recognition has been upgraded.

“Drivers have always turned to ADOT for the most accurate information on Arizona’s highways. The improved website and phone line make it even easier to access the information drivers need to make informed decisions when traveling throughout our state,” said ADOT Director John Halikowski. “As Governor Ducey has said, the principal job of state government is to protect and improve the quality of life for our citizens. Embracing new technology and offering better information to support motorist safety aligns with his charge to state agencies.”

The new site is easy to navigate and includes information not previously available. Speed maps for all of Arizona’s roadways are displayed. Motorists can see the weather forecast, radar, and National Weather Service watches and warnings. Border wait times have also been added. ADOT’s Twitter feed is visible on the home page, making it easy for travelers to get their questions answered by ADOT public information officers.

The 511 phone system includes the ability to transfer directly to state and national parks, airports, and other transportation-related contacts. Additionally, the phone system will allow callers to transfer to the Arizona Adopt a Highway system to report those who litter.

Soon to follow is an AZ511 mobile app for iOS and Android that will offer route planning, advanced monitoring of route conditions, and “drive mode” that will read off critical alerts to drivers.

“The new Arizona Traveler Information System was born out of demand from Arizona motorists for more information – especially during critical events like snowstorms or highway closures. With a 24/7 operations center, ADOT is the principal source of this information,” said Dr. Timothy Tait, ADOT’s director of communications. “While these new services have officially launched, we are still adding features, addressing issues and catching bugs. If you see something we can improve, be sure to look for ‘Contact Us’ under the ‘About’ link on the website.”

ADOT set up its statewide 511 phone line in 2002 and is part of the nationally-designated three-digit phone number for traveler information. Over the past year, AZ511.gov had more than 65 million hits and the 511 phone line received more than 430,000 calls.

The new AZ511 system is part of a range of tools used by ADOT to help drivers safely navigate the state. With the ADOT Alerts app – available at ADOTAlerts.com – more than 65,000 users are receiving alerts about crashes, serious weather or closures of highways to help them make informed driving decisions based on their location using geofencing technology.

CITY NEWS

BANNER ALZHEIMER’S TO HOST MUSICAL SERIES FOR PATIENTS AND THEIR CARE PARTNERS MUSIC CAN AFFECT US IN munity, because it offers an opportunity participate during the pilot program. POWERFUL WAYS, ESPECIALLY to help them remain socially active She said she couldn’t believe how WHEN IT COMES TO MOOD AND and engaged which is key to maintain- much Marlin enjoyed himself. “My MEMORY. In support of this engaging ing quality of life,” said Lori Nisson, husband really blossomed during that connection, Banner Alzheimer’s LCSW, Family and Community Ser- event. That was a joy to me,” she said. Institute is proud to introduce Passport vices director. “Recent studies convey “But it was also a great experience for to Music in 2019 in partnership with the health benefits of music interven- me to meet other families and caregivthe Musical Instrument Museum tion for these patients. People living ers. We’re all going through the same (MIM). The new life enrichment with Alzheimer’s and other related journey in different ways, and that conprogram is designed for persons with dementias maintain musical aptitude nection was incredible.” mild to moderate memory loss and and appreciation. While dementia their care partners. The participants affects mood, memory and language; The Passport to Music series will be will experience a different region of the music can function as a powerful tool offered over the course of five weeks world each week through music being in eliciting positive memories, emo- during 2019, and participants are en- The cost to participate is $50 per pair encouraged to explore memories and tions and interactions.” couraged to attend all sessions in their and people can register by emailing engage in interactive experiences in selected series. Each session will take BAIFCS@bannerhealth.com, or callthis unique environment. MIM fosters Local resident Diane Gerdts has seen place from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Musi- ing (602) 839-6850. appreciation of the world’s diverse the positive results music has had on cal Instrument Museum, main entrance cultures by showing how we innovate, her 85-year old husband Marlin, who lobby, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd, Phoenix. This program was funded by generous adapt, and learn from each other to has been suffering from Alzheimer’s support from Rosario Strano in honor create music—the language of the soul. disease. He was first diagnosed about DATES FOR EACH SERIES ARE: of his wife Judy Loker to the Banner four years ago. Being a previous choir Spring series – May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Alzheimer’s Foundation. To support “We’re excited to offer this series to director, Diane knows the power and Summer series – Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 programs and activities, visit give.banpeople and families within our com- influence of music so was thrilled to Fall series – Nov. 1, 8, 15, 22, Dec. 6 nerhealth.com/Alzheimers.

TOWN OF CAREFREE NAMES 2017 SPIRIT OF CAREFREE AWARD RECIPIENT

KNOWN THROUGHOUT THE DESERT FOOTHILLS AREA AS “CAREFREE SANTA,” RON BACHER HAS BEEN CHOSEN AS THE 2017 RECIPIENT OF THE SPIRIT OF CAREFREE AWARD, UNDERWRITTEN BY SANDERSON LINCOLN. This annual distinction honors Carefree residents who demonstrate above-and-beyond dedication to the community and its residents. The award will be presented during the Town’s Community Block Party event on Saturday, April 6 at 3 p.m., and will be accepted by Mr. Bacher’s widow, Annette Bacher.

“Ron actually WAS Santa to those of us who knew him and loved him,” noted Carefree Mayor Les Peterson. “Many area children who grew up with Ron being the ‘Carefree Santa’ for a decade miss his twinkling eyes, his hearty laugh and his always positive personality. His spirit of cooperation and his willingness to share his many talents capture the essence of the Carefree spirit, that of giving back unselfishly to the community. He is a most deserving recipient of the award.”

Ron Bacher relocated to Phoenix from his native Chicago in 1972 and was an accomplished jewelry artist and woodworker. He was perhaps best known throughout the area for his distinctive long, white beard, and each Christmas season he became Santa Claus for the Town’s annual holiday celebrations. His woodworking artistry can still be viewed in the Carefree Desert Gardens, as he was the creator of the post for the Little Free Library located on the west side of the gardens. Mr. Bacher passed away suddenly of a heart attack on March 26, 2018.

The Spirit of Carefree Award, established in 2013, is presented on an annual basis in recognition of those individuals that demonstrate dedication and service to the Foothills community, and Carefree in particular. Previous recipients include former Town councilman Arthur Gimson, former Carefree Mayor David Schwan, and local business owners Harry Vardakis and Steve Woods.

CAREFREE DESERT GARDENS ANNOUNCES DATES FOR ANNUAL GARDEN PHOTO CONTEST

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS! The Town of Carefree is again holding its annual Carefree Desert Gardens Photo Contest, with submissions being accepted beginning Monday, April 1 in several location throughout the Town. Entries vie for the popular “Peoples’ Choice Award” as voted by the public, which will be presented in the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion on Friday, May 10, in conjunction with National Public Gardens Day.

“The Carefree Desert Gardens present a wide array of spectacular photographic opportunities,” shared Mayor Les Peterson. “Opportunities abound – from the exotic desert plants sprinkled throughout to magical sunrises and sunsets; from spectacular mountain vistas to the memorable people who stroll through the Gardens. Take your pick and let your imagination and photographic skills capture a masterpiece!”

Images must be taken within the Carefree Desert Gardens in the Carefree Town Center, with no time constraints on when the images were taken. Photographers are limited to a maximum of three image entries, and all entries must be received no later than Friday, April 26. Submissions will be reviewed by a judging panel, and 12 images will be selected to compete for the “Peoples’ Choice”, with voting taking place at the Desert Foothills Library from April 27–May 5.

Entries may be submitted at The UPS Store, 33689 N. Tom Darlington Dr.; CVS Photo Counter, 5400 E. Carefree Hwy.; and at Carefree Town Hall, 8 Sundial Cir., through Friday, April 26. Entry forms are available at each location or may be downloaded at Carefree.org. Contest entry is free, and the winning entries will have their images used on future marketing and promotional materials by the Town. See contest entry form for complete rules and usage information.

For more information about the contest, call 480-488-3686 or visit Carefree.org/230/Garden-Photo-Contest

OCTANE RACEWAY ANNOUNCES NEW SISTER CONCEPT – MAVRIX NEW FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER TO OFFER BOWLING, LASER TAG, ARCADE GAMES, CHEF-DRIVEN MENU

Scottsdale will soon welcome will connect the two entertainment Mavrix, the Valley’s newest powerhouses. Guests will be able entertainment hub, offering 24 to seamlessly flow between the two lanes of upscale bowling, 85 arcade venues and use shared arcade game games, state-of-the-art laser tag, bil- cards at both Mavrix and Octane liards tables, dozens of 4K televisions, Raceway. 1,500 square feet of meeting and event space, a 5,000 square-foot restaurant “Talking Stick is booming with new and bar featuring chef-prepared menu development,” said Scott Sanders, items and a large outdoor games patio. CEO of Octane Raceway and owner Mavrix will be the latest addition to of Octane Entertainment. “As a Octane Entertainment’s roster, the par- long-standing tenant, it’s exciting to ent group known for Octane Raceway, contribute to the growth by delivering Arizona’s premium kart racing facil- Mavrix, which will be the premier ity, and Velocity VR, the state’s only family entertainment center in the free-roam virtual reality gaming arena. area. Octane Entertainment has had who refused to follow convention lines. Built for a memorable night out its sights on expansion, and when the and carved his own path into history. with friends to a day of family fun, Mavrix will be located in the 50,000 space next door to Octane Raceway Mavrix conveys the spirit of bucking Mavrix is sure to be an entertainment square-foot retail space next door to became available, it was too good to trends and is focused on creating rich destination. Octane Raceway at the Pavilions at pass up.” experiences for its guests. The venue Talking Stick. Mavrix and Octane will infuse the maverick attitude with Mavrix is expected to open in late Raceway will total a combined The Mavrix name pays tribute to design elements of wood, brick and 2019. For more information, or to sign 110,000 square feet with shared access the original story of Sam Maverick, steel throughout, while maintaining up for the newsletter, visit mavrix. to the outdoor games patio, which an “independently-minded” rancher an industrial look with clean, organic com.

19TH ANNUAL PHOENIX FILM FESTIVAL: INTERNATIONAL HORROR & SCI-FI FESTIVAL

The Phoenix Film Festival, named one of The films from all over the world, along with eclectic 25 Coolest Film Festivals by MovieMaker programming of older films, special guests and cult Magazine, is back for its 19th year! classics. Plus, patrons can enjoy all the great parties and entertainment the Phoenix Film Festival is The Festival runs annually and screens over 150 known for. It’s the best of all worlds! films, holds amazing parties and provides filmmaking seminars. If you are a movie lover, this is an Tickets and passes are available online at www. event that is not to be missed! PhoenixFilmFestival.com or may also be purchased in person at the Phoenix Film Festival Ticket Center The International Horror and Sci-Fi Film Festival next to the Harkins Scottsdale 101 Theater (7000 E. happens in conjunction with the yearly Phoenix Mayo Blvd) starting Monday, April 1. Tickets range Film Festival. From April 4 – 14, attendees can in price from $15 for a single screening to $450 for a catch premieres of short and feature horror and sci-fi platinum pass.

The Phoenix Film Festival is a program under the 501(c)3 non-profit organization Phoenix Film Foundation, and is a sibling of the Phoenix Film Society, the International Horror and Sci-Fi Film Festival, IFP/Phoenix, the Arizona Student Film Festival and the Phoenix Critics Circle. The Festival’s mission is to support and develop the artistic appreciation, educational opportunities and growth of independent film within Arizona. The Foundation’s primary functions through its programs are to promote the exhibition of independent films and conduct educational programs that teach the art of filmmaking. Thank you to all of our customers, new and old! 10% OFF YOUR ORDER with this coupon 28190 N Alma School Pkwy Scottsdale, Arizona 85262 (480) 502-9861 ponyexpresscafe.com