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 Basha. “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 operation, warnings will be issued to drivers Scottsdale 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. branches from the roof and patio areas of the

FIRE OFFICIALS URGE RESIDENTS IN URBAN INTERFACE TO REDUCE THREAT

By Scottsdale Fire Department

RECENT RAINS HAVE GREENED UP OUR 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).

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.

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.

KID CHEF FROM SCOTTSDALE WINS ANNUAL HEALTHY COOKING CONTEST BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD “This year’s recipe submissions were for their favorite recipe. For the third OF ARIZONA (BCBSAZ) HAS so diverse and creative, from deviled part of the scoring process, videos of ANNOUNCED THE GRAND-PRIZE eggs stuffed with guacamole to carrots contestants discussing what makes their WINNER OF ITS 2019 WALK ON! sautéed with dill and thyme, we just recipe so good were posted online for Kids Cooking Challenge. David couldn’t get over them,” said Myrna a public vote. The recipe that received Hummert, a 9-year-old from Sonoran Collins, health promotion executive at the most points from all three scoring Sky Elementary School in Scottsdale, BCBSAZ. “What I really like about categories was declared the winner. was crowned the big winner for his David’s Broccolini Pasta is that when “Broccolini Pasta,” a pasta side dish it is made with whole-grain pasta, this The Walk On! Kids Cooking Challenge featuring zucchini and broccolini. is a yummy and nutrition dense dish is part of the 14th annual Walk On! comprised of a low glycemic veggies Challenge, a free month-long health and “I entered the Walk On! Kids Cooking and whole-grain.” fitness challenge for schools held each Challenge because I have a really good year in February. t Your Kids pasta, and I wanted to win a new bike,” Hummert said. “My Broccolini Pasta is filled with lots of good veggies, and it still tastes good!” As the grand-prize winner, Hummert received a new bike and safety gear. Recipe submissions underwent a threeWith childhood obesity rates reaching epidemic proportions, BCBSAZ designed this program to motivate fourth- part scoring process. First, a nutrition and fifth-grade students across Arizona Outside!!As part of its effort to inspire kids to make healthier choices, in January, BCBSAZ invited kids between the ages of 9 and 12 across the state to submit ideas for healthy side dish recipes. Recispecialist reviewed all the recipe submissions and chose the top five finalists based on each recipe’s nutritional balance between vegetables, fruits and other ingredients. Then the top five fito incorporate healthy habits into their daily routines for now and in the future. The Kids Cooking Challenge is a way to extend the Walk On! message outside the classroom. pes had to be original, include at least nalists participated in a public event at a one fruit or vegetable, and be able to be Phoenix Suns home game, where game For more information about Walk On!, prepared in 20 minutes or less. attendees had a chance to taste and vote visit www.walkonaz.com.

Get Your Kids Outside!

Want to reduce screen ti me for your kids and get some fresh air? Are you looking for fun acti viti es to do all year long right here in our state? Check out Ladybug’s Blog for arti cles highlighti ng fun Arizona adventures for the whole family!

REPORT SAYS SCOTTSDALE’S DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES ARE APPROPRIATE

By Sharron Walker, City Auditor

AN OUTSIDE AGENCY CONCLUDED THE CITY OF SCOTTSDALE IS APPROPRIATELY PLANNING FUTURE WATER AND WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUITABLY USING DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES TO HELP PAY FOR IT. A comprehensive review of Scottsdale’s land use assumptions, infrastructure improvement plans and development impact fees for the water and wastewater systems was recently completed. The review found no issues. The city charges development impact fees to pay for infrastructure and facilities needed to accommodate new development. These fees are “onetime” payments that represent a proportionate share of the cost of infrastructure improvements needed. The biennial certified audit is required by state law, as is a public hearing on its results. That hearing is on the Tuesday, April 2, Scottsdale City Council agenda. The meeting begins at 5 p.m. in the City Hall Kiva, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd.

ladybugsblog.com ladybugsblog.com Dedicated to getti ng Arizona kids outdoors and excited about nature, science and the world outside.

Dedicated to ge+ng Arizona kids outdoors and 6 • April 2019 • THE SCOTTSDALE STANDARD excited about nature, science and the world outside.

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 MAVRIX, THE VALLEY’S NEWEST ENTERTAINMENT HUB, OFFERING 24 LANES OF UPSCALE BOWLING, 85 arcade games, state-of-the-art laser tag, billiards tables, dozens of 4K televisions, 1,500 square feet of meeting and event space, a 5,000 screens over 150 films, holds amazing may also be purchased in person at the parties and provides filmmaking Phoenix Film Festival Ticket Center seminars. If you are a movie lover, this next to the Harkins Scottsdale 101 is an event that is not to be missed! Theater (7000 E. Mayo Blvd) starting Monday, April 1. Tickets range in price The International Horror and Sci-Fi from $15 for a single screening to $450 Film Festival happens in conjunction for a platinum pass. with the yearly Phoenix Film Festival. From April 4 – 14, attendees can catch The Phoenix Film Festival is a premieres of short and feature horror program under the 501(c)3 non-profit and sci-fi films from all over the world, organization Phoenix Film Foundation, along with eclectic programming of and is a sibling of the Phoenix Film older films, special guests and cult Society, the International Horror and classics. Plus, patrons can enjoy all Sci-Fi Film Festival, IFP/Phoenix, the great parties and entertainment the the Arizona Student Film Festival square-foot restaurant and bar featuring chefprepared menu items and a large outdoor games

patio. Mavrix will be the latest addition to Octane Entertainment’s roster, the parent group known for Octane Raceway, Arizona’s premium kart racing facility, and Velocity VR, the state’s only free-roam virtual reality gaming arena.

Mavrix will be located in the 50,000 square-foot retail space next door to Octane Raceway at the Pavilions at Talking Stick. Mavrix and Octane Raceway will total a combined 110,000 square feet with shared access to the outdoor games patio, which will connect the two entertainment powerhouses. Guests will be able to seamlessly flow between the two venues and use shared arcade game cards at both Mavrix and Octane Raceway.

“Talking Stick is booming with new development,” said Scott Sanders, CEO of Octane Raceway and owner of Octane Entertainment. “As a long-standing tenant, it’s exciting to contribute to the growth by delivering Mavrix, which will be the premier family entertainment center in the area. Octane Entertainment has had its sights on expansion, and when the space next door to Octane Raceway became available, it was too good to pass up.” The Mavrix name pays tribute to the original story of Sam Maverick, an “independently-minded” rancher who refused to follow convention and carved his own path into history. Mavrix conveys the spirit of bucking trends and is focused on creating rich experiences for its guests. The venue will infuse the maverick attitude with design elements of wood, brick and steel throughout, while maintaining an industrial look with clean, organic lines. Built for a memorable night out with friends to a day of family fun, Mavrix is sure to be an entertainment destination.

Mavrix is expected to open in late 2019. For more information, or to sign up for the newsletter, visit

PHOENIX FILM FESTIVAL: INTERNATIONAL HORROR & SCI-FI FESTIVAL THE PHOENIX FILM FESTIVAL, Phoenix Film Festival is known for. It’s and the Phoenix Critics Circle. The The Foundation’s primary functions NAMED ONE OF THE 25 COOLEST the best of all worlds! Festival’s mission is to support and through its programs are to promote FILM FESTIVALS BY MOVIEMAKER develop the artistic appreciation, the exhibition of independent films and MAGAZINE, IS BACK FOR ITS 19TH Tickets and passes are available online educational opportunities and growth conduct educational programs that YEAR! The Festival runs annually and at www.PhoenixFilmFestival.com or of independent film within Arizona. teach the art of filmmaking. mavrix.com.