North Peoria, AZ August 2023

Celebrating Kids & Pets

HOME + DESIGN

PET-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

EDUCATION

A PERFECT ACT SCORE!

CREATING A LASTING IMPRESSION

LOCAL SERVICES

PHOTOGRAPHING STUDENT ATHLETES IN ACTION

Did you know that once your child or grandchild turns 18, you no longer have access to their medical records or the ability to talk with their doctors? It can be a scary thought, but there’s a solution. By creating a health care directive, your young adult can grant you or other family members the power to make medical decisions on their behalf and view their records if they’re unable to do so themselves. Whether they’re headed off to college or starting their career, having this important document in place will provide peace of mind for everyone involved. Make sure your young adult has this essential tool before it’s too late.

Kyle Mann Attorney at Law

August — Kids & Pets

This issue is always one of my favorites because of the immense joy children bring to their families. They make up some of the most important threads that stitch together a community. And pets—they are just as much a part of our families!

Children are the hope for a brighter tomorrow. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment, and we are happy to highlight the best for Peoria’s kids in this issue.

Let’s not forget pets, because, in many ways, they are also our children. Their special kind of companionship is a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love. They are often our doorway into the community. Our furry friends are the reason we break the ice on the street with complete strangers.

There is no conversation starter more welcome that talking about our animals.

What brings together our “Kids and Pets” is the special bond between our children and their furry or feathery friends. No one can ignore this deep and meaningful bond, fostering empathy, responsibility, and companionship.

Our pets have always brought out our personalities in our homes. Our rescue animal brought out our gentle side, for she needed careful and loving handling. Our other furry friend was so relaxed we called him our “breathing stuffed animal.” My kids could dress him in costume, take him in the car, or pass him around the living room for all the friends to play with. He brought out our silliness and our laughter.

What children and pets share is that they need us. Our care, attention, and intention shape their upbringing and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the ones you love this month, be it children, pets, or any other member of your loving family. Cheers!

August 2023

PUBLISHER

Julie LaCroix | julie.lacroix@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Susan Lanier-Graham susan.lanier-graham@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Jen David | jen.david@citylifestyle.com

INTERN

Damien Lopez | damien.lopez@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC

Christine@picture-lady.com

COPY EDITOR

Mimi Slawoff | mslawoff@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michelle Talsma Everson, Angel Fuchs, Susan Lanier-Graham, Gretchen Pahia

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Christine Andert—Picture Lady Photography LLC, Damien Lopez, Jenna Oxford

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Hunter Richie

LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

LACROIX, PUBLISHER @NORTHPEORIALIFESTYLE

JULIE

PETFRIENDLY OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

The company offers various products, including artificial turf, putting greens, pavers, travertine, decorative rock, garden planters and walls, outdoor lighting, and a specialty pet turf system.

Is the specialty pet system worth the additional cost? Noyes says yes.

CREATING AN OASIS FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT—PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

Nationwide, nearly 9 billion gallons of water are used daily for lawn maintenance. Especially in our dry climate, homeowners are always looking for ways to save resources. But what if you want the look of grass?

Across the Valley, one popular option for homeowners is artificial or turf grass, but those with pets often fear turf isn’t for them. Fortunately, that isn't the case according to Eric and Leslie Noyes, owners of Arizona’s Greenest Grass Turf Company (AZGreenestGrass.com).

THE ARIZONA’S GREENEST GRASS DIFFERENCE

So, what sets Arizona’s Greenest Grass apart from other turf companies in the Valley?

“We utilize only the highest quality turf on the market, and our turf is made in the USA. It is also certified lead-free and toxin-free. Our expert installers take pride in their workmanship daily, and project managers inspect all the work during installation and after completion to ensure quality,” shares Noyes.

“If pet owners purchase the right turf, they can have a lawn that is suited for their pets but also looks beautiful. Pet urine will inhibit grass growth and even kill it. To avoid brown patches, artificial turf is a great alternative. Many companies market “pet-friendly turf,” but it may be missing many of the qualities of actual pet turf. Our specially-designed turf is great for pets.”

PET TURF DIFFERS FROM

PET-FRIENDLY TURF

Noyes stresses that homeowners want to choose an actual pet turf instead of a petfriendly turf. Some of the things you should be on the lookout for when it comes to specialty pet turf are:

• Permeable backing designed for fluids to flow through easily and not sit on top (drainage of 400+ gallons per minute/per square yard)

• Triple-reinforced for durability • Designed for high-traffic areas

• Low pile height for easy clean-up

• Certified lead-free

• TigerCool technology (or similar) which is up to 15% cooler than surrounding surfaces Also, insist on infill that is the least harmful to your pets. It should have all of the following characteristics:

• Non-toxic and non-absorbent

• Microban antimicrobial protection proven to disrupt bacteria growth

• Neutralizes ammonia/deodorizer

• 100% environmentally safe

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR

Although the initial cost of a pet-turf system may cause homeowners to pause, Noyes stresses it is a good solution.

“The initial cost of turf is higher than grass. However, the upkeep of natural grass is both expensive and time-consuming. If one invests in high-quality turf, they can expect it to last for 10 to 15 years and even beyond depending on the turf chosen and how the area is utilized.“

Noyes adds that upkeep with any turf, whether regular turf or the pet turf system, is low. Homeowners can use a blower or plastic rake to remove leaves or debris. There may be occasional weeding around the edges, but if the turf is installed correctly, weeds shouldn’t grow through the turf at any point.

“Maintaining synthetic grass is almost too easy,” shares Noyes. “No more edging, mowing, fertilizing, or re-seeding. You don’t have to worry about broken sprinkler heads, evaporation, or water runoff into the streets. It is simple and fast to take care of.”

Noyes adds that the maintenance amount will depend on the specific situation. If you have pets or children, are surrounded by trees, or live near a dusty area, you might need more clean-up effort.

Not only is turf low maintenance, but it can also improve the overall beauty of your outdoor space year-round—and provide a happy play place for the children and pets in your life.

Local Soccer Coach Javier Torres Inspires Young Athletes

How One Man Turned a Lifelong Passion and Talent into Something Transformational for Area Youth

ARTICLE BY MICHELLE TALSMA EVERSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY GROWTH SOCCER TRAINING

Soccer coach Javier Torres is determined to be the mentor he needed when he was younger. With a lifelong passion and talent for soccer and the support of Peoria and Valley families, Torres has launched and expanded Growth Soccer Training (GrowthSoccerTraining.com), a premiere youth soccer program. The popular youth sports program has helped hundreds of local kids find their own passion for soccer.

FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME

Torres came to the U.S. with his family from his original home in Mexico at the age of 10. “I loved soccer from a young age,” he recalls. “In Mexico City, it was an activity that was part of our dayto-day life—it wasn’t formal or organized. We’d

play pick-up games in the streets, at parks, and at parties. Basically, anywhere we could.”

A few years into his time in the U.S., at age 14, Torres joined organized soccer and fell in love with the game. Hooked on the sport, he developed his skills and played D-1 and semi-professional soccer—always practicing extra hard to make up for his lack of formal training as a child.

“As a coach now, I try to be the person I needed when I was a young athlete,” he says. “Looking back, I owe everything to my parents who, like the dedicated parents I coach with now, shuffled me to game after game and gave me every opportunity possible.”

Unfortunately, an injury kept Torres from going pro, but at 23—just five years ago—a

loved one recommended he coach a youth soccer team. “My first team I coached was 8-year-old boys and from there, coaching became my passion,” he says. “Soccer teaches kids lessons they won’t learn anywhere else. These skills then have a ripple effect into not only their athletic lives but school, families, and the community.”

BECOMING “COACH JAVI”

As a coach, Torres developed his own style and techniques that resonated with the young players he mentored. He says he believes in focusing on the fundamental techniques and skill sets needed to become the best athletes they can be. He teaches his players not to be afraid of the ball but instead to think of the “why” and “how” of the sport—to problem solve and master the ball before they play the game.

“There’s much more to soccer than just the actual sport,” he says. “To be the voice I didn’t have as a young athlete, I help youth learn about nutrition, the importance of rest, technical abilities, and many of the things I learned almost too late in my youth soccer career.”

In addition to the athleticism, Torres hopes that every young athlete he coaches keeps the life lessons they learn with them whether they go on to play soccer at higher levels or not.

“I tell my athletes and their families, first and foremost, to remember to have a good time and that we celebrate both our successes and our losses as a team,” he says. “In turn, they’ve helped me to grow as a person too—I’ve coached young athletes from various backgrounds, and I’ve learned to have fun with the sport and celebrate with the kids every step of the way.”

“When the athletes I’ve coached look back on their experiences with me, I hope my legacy is one as a coach who cared, who shared his passion, and was big on all of the details that go along with the sport,” Torres adds.

GROWTH SOCCER TRAINING

Although Torres started Growth Soccer Training as a side gig, word started getting out as parents noticed the improvement in the young athletes’ abilities on the field. With word of mouth spreading from one local team to another, he opened his original location of Growth Soccer Training in 2019 in a 2,000-square-foot repurposed warehouse garage in Peoria.

“When I told parents that I wanted to expand the space, they helped to fundraise for our new location, which recently opened,” Torres shares.

The 12,000-square-foot training center at 35th Avenue and Bell Road marks a critical expansion from

the previous 2,000-square-foot facility. The new center features two indoor fields, interactive training spaces for technical training, shooting, and finishing zones, a classroom to teach tactics and review taped plays, and a family viewing area. All of this is combined with the elite programming sought out by Valley residents. Many of the original Peoria families have even become more involved.

“I now have three partners and a team of five coaches who all believed in me and that we could create something bigger,” he says. “Two of the three partners are parents whose kids have participated in the training programs.”

A year-round operation, Growth Soccer Training leads private and group sessions, striking hours, speed and agility programs, and Little Baller classes for younger athletes.

“What sets us apart is our ability to pay attention to the small details and techniques that will help develop every skill set,” Torres says. “Whether it's working on speed, foot placement or striking ability, it’s my job to

understand what each player needs and teach them the tools necessary to grow into the best version of themselves.”

He adds that he hopes eventually to expand the model and impact how soccer is taught to young athletes nationwide.

LESSONS TO LAST A LIFETIME

Oftentimes, participating in youth sports can be a childhood rite of passage.

“For younger kids, they learn to socialize in soccer—there’s one ball and ten athletes. For older kids, the sport can teach them discipline and that it’s never too late to start something you’re passionate about,” he says. “I think in society, we need more comradery in general; we may lose together, but we also win together.”

Whether his young athletes are at Growth Soccer Training for a season or if it’s the training that catapults them to a professional career, Torres hopes they take the lessons from their experiences with them out into the world.

“As a coach now, I try to be the person I needed when I was a young athlete,”

“A year after my surgery I was still experiencing pain and numbness. Physical therapy had helped to a point, but I still wasn't able to resume my normal training without aggravating my back and being forced to limit my activity. Dr. Mitchell and his team immediately identified the problem areas and came up with a treatment plan. After the first visit, I had significant relief and have seen continuous improvement since then.”

CREATING A LASTING IMPRESSION

Peoria Student Showcases Creativity

The new school year is about to kick off, meaning thousands of Peoria students are heading back for another year of learning and opportunity. Many students seek opportunities to showcase their creative talents. The opportunity came during senior year for one former student who recently graduated from Liberty High School.

Jacob Tanner, who graduated in May 2023, has always had the creative bug. “I love making art. I love making specialty graphic designs for people," shares Tanner. So, when one of his teachers noticed him doodling and working on sketches for another project, it caught her eye immediately.

FBLA'S ENTREPRENEURSHIP CO-LAB PROGRAM

JoDee Pennock, Business Teacher and Future Business Leaders of American (FBLA) Advisor noticed Tanner sketching, and she realized there was something there. She encouraged him to join FBLA’s Entrepreneurship Co-Lab program.

The program aims to teach students the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, such as creating a business and financial plan for running a business. It is a partnership between the Peoria Unified School District and Arizona State University’s J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute.

“Don’t let anyone else tell you you’re wrong or that you cannot do it. If you feel like it is a genuinely good idea, do it, work hard for it, and achieve it.”

According to Barbara Coakley, Peoria Unified Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director, the program serves all students curious about entrepreneurship.

“Students participating in the Entrepreneurship Co-Lab will be guided through the entrepreneurial process by mentors and local entrepreneurs and will be provided with access to resources and contacts to assist them with their own entrepreneurship journey,” says Coakley.  “As students work through the process, ideate, develop, and iterate, they will be provided with feedback along the way, have opportunities to practice pitches, and work towards the creation of their own venture that can be pitched at the ASU Venture Devil Demo Day for funding.”

“As a district, we want to take entrepreneurship to the next level. We want to support students with business ideas and help them make authentic, real-world connections with business mentors,” says Pennock.

TANNER'S ARTISTIC AND ENTREPRENEURIAL JOURNEY

For teachers like Pennock, it was easy to see the prospects for Tanner. “After seeing different artwork examples, I encouraged Jacob to use a 9-week project to develop a painting business,” says Pennock.

For Tanner, however, he couldn’t commit to joining the program fulltime, but that didn’t stop him from learning and engaging with the instructors and fellow classmates as much as possible. That spurred an idea from Pennock on how Tanner could showcase his talents outside of school.

“This past year, my family began a huge landscaping project in our backyard,” shares Pennock. She hired Tanner to add a tropical-inspired mural that can be admired from the yard and inside the home.

Tanner says he was excited about sharing his artwork with Pennock and her family, so it was a no-brainer to accept the job and see what he could create.

It took several trips to Pennock’s home over a few weeks, a couple of hours at a time, to complete the design. “It wasn’t too time-consuming, and honestly, it was really fun to see my design come to life on the wall.”

According to Pennock, the painting is reminiscent of Rocky Point, Mexico, with a blend of vibrant and bold colors. After sharing her favorite types of trees, plants, flowers, and animals, Tanner was on his own.

“I wanted Jacob to have creativity on this project, so I told him once he started painting, I wanted to get out of the way and allow his creativity to take the lead,” says Pennock. “It was interesting to watch the process and progress each week. My nephew, who owns a paint business, was so impressed by the details in the mural he asked for Jacob’s contact info in case he’d like to hire him on special projects.”

For Tanner, designing and creating made this project so enticing and exciting. “I love making art. I love making designs for people. Getting to create specialized artwork for people is fun, and seeing the success afterward is rewarding,” he says.

And it goes well beyond wall painting. Tanner has done all types of design work, from tattoos to landscapes and just about everything in between. “If I can do it, I’ll do it. I enjoy creating and showcasing my artistic abilities. It’s fun, energetic, and I love a challenge when creating something new,” says Tanner.

“If I can do it, I’ll do it. I enjoy creating and showcasing my artistic abilities. It’s fun, energetic, and I love a challenge when creating something new.”

THE HEART OF AN ARTIST

Early childhood advocate and author Sydney Gurewitz Clemens once said, “Art has the role in the education of helping children become like themselves instead of more like everyone else.”

Using art to help kids define who they are also holds great importance to Robert Panzer, Director of Arts Education for Peoria Unified School District (PUSD), who has dedicated over 28 years to that mission.

Panzer, 53, is originally from Illinois and moved to Arizona in the seventh grade. He attended Moon Valley High School in Phoenix and was drawn to the arts. Panzer received his bachelor of fine arts degree from Arizona State University and his master's in curriculum and instruction from Chapman College in California.

He started his education career teaching photography and art at Sunrise Mountain High School in Peoria. After 17 years in the classroom, he moved to his administrative role, overseeing the art education program for PUSD—42 schools, 147 art educators, and 37,000 students.

“Creating is my passion,” says Panzer. “I used to be a working artist, and I've sold some of my work, but I don't have much time these days."

That's because he's busy “giving back what was given.” Panzer's high school art teacher inspired him early on and showed him that it was possible to express himself through art.

“Inspiring the next generation of thinkers is important to me. Art literacy in children can help them with problem-solving by teaching them to think creatively,” says Panzer. “Art is helpful in all pathways of life whether it's related to art or not. It creates not only artists but also thinkers. It helps kids connect to something bigger than themselves.”

Panzer says he does miss being on campus and having direct interaction with students, but he is confident he is exactly where he needs to be to make the most impact.

The district's art program encompasses visual arts, performing arts, general music for elementary school, and visual and performing arts for high school.

Panzer says what sets PUSD apart is the Arts Pathways courses offered to students in junior high. “Pathways courses help the students expand their options and get them connected,” he says. “It is a great way to reach the kids and help them explore through art.”

Panzer has had countless proud moments over the years. “I love watching what others are doing,” he says, adding that he enjoys watching the students' achievements at school and after graduation.

ARTICLE BY ANGEL FUCHS

PANZER RESIDES IN PEORIA. HE IS MARRIED AND HAS THREE DOGS.

Robert Panzer, Director of Arts Education for PUSD, firmly commits to keeping the arts alive. In addition to his work with the school system, Panzer is on the City of Peoria Arts Commission board.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT— PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

ROB PANZER STRIVES TO KEEP ART ALIVE IN PEORIA SCHOOLS

Student Athletes in Action

NORTH PEORIA LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER

CHRISTINE ANDERT VOLUNTEERS TO CAPTURE STUDENT MOMENTS

It was Friday Night Football at Liberty High School nine years ago. Christine Andert's youngest son, Michael Eyde, was a freshman starting in football. Andert volunteered to work at the Lion's Den selling t-shirts to support the program. Before the game, Andert heard the coordinator lament that the photographer couldn't make it. As an avid hobby photographer at the time, taking family photos for friends and photographing vacations, she volunteered to run home, get her equipment, and photograph the game.

That night launched what would become a full-time photography career.

PICTURE LADY MOVES TO NORTH PEORIA

After relocating to Arizona from New York in 1999, Andert moved to North Peoria in 2006. Her two sons, Christopher and Michael Eyde, graduated from Liberty High School.

"I owe my business start to Liberty and my son!" says Andert, recounting that fateful night when the photographer was a no-show.

She continued photographing Liberty Football and soon added Girls' Volleyball. The following summer, the coach wanted Andert to photograph the seniors during a football game. He yelled at the team, "After we are done here, I want all you seniors in the end zone. Picture Lady here is gonna take your picture!"

The name stuck. Andert says the kids, the coaches, and parents started calling her Picture Lady. It seemed the perfect name for her photography business—Picture Lady Photography, LLC ( Picture-Lady.com).

TAKING THE LEAP

Before launching full-time, Andert studied hard to perfect her craft.

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT—PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

She took college courses. She joined Arizona Professional Photographers and the Professional Photographers of America. Eventually, she received her Certified Professional Photographer designation, which she updates regularly. She spends a week each year in Dallas at an intense workshop studying with photography professionals.

During her training, Andert continued to work as a budget analyst with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. With her work schedule, her time for photography was limited. Parents began contacting her to do senior pictures and family photos. It was time to take the plunge!

In May 2020—amid COVID—she did just that and resigned from her job to launch Picture Lady Photography fulltime. It turned out to be fortunate for students during the pandemic.

"During COVID, fans were limited at the high school sports," recounts Andert. "Donating my pictures allowed the parents or family members not in attendance to see something from the games. I post them for fans to have complimentary access."

Even though parents and fans are once again cheering on their students, Andert continues to donate her time to photographing the games. The photos are on her website for complimentary download—and she donates the football photos to the booster club to sell. "I do not make money from these," explains Andert. "I am completely a volunteer."

In addition to Liberty Football and Girls' Volleyball, Andert photographs other sports at Liberty. She has done endof-year banquets for sports teams along with band and choir. Andert laughs that she's now at the school all year round.

Her biggest thrill is watching how the teachers and coaches give back to the community and their impact on the students. She recounts how the coaches go out of their way to inspire and lead their students.

AN ESTABLISHED BUSINESS WOMAN

Andert joined North Peoria Lifestyle in the summer of 2021 and began photographing for the magazine with the October issue that year. She spends her days—and many nights—volunteering to photograph the athletes in between her increasing workload of clients who call on her for portraits.

She loves being a part of the North Peoria business community. She is a member of the Glendale Chamber, Business Networking International (BNI), and is a Better Business Bureau Accredited business.

I wish to give back a fraction of what the coaches and players have given me, my family, and our community.

K-911 Paws Foundation

NON-PROFIT HELPS SUPPORT K9 UNITS ACROSS THE COUNTRY

K-911 Paws Foundation ( K-911Paws.org ) is a local non-profit organization that provides education to the public and financial assistance to public safety-certified K9 units nationwide. Units use the assistance training expenses, equipment, medical needs, and funding to purchase new K9s.

Executive Director Shelly Marano says the organization is her passion project. “I have always had a passion for animals and law enforcement. I married a State Trooper and looked to pursue a career in law enforcement, specifically with K9s.”

However, life changed drastically for Marano in 2009 when her husband was killed in the line of duty. “I became a widowed mother of three, and I wasn’t sure of my future with law enforcement. Also, my young girls weren’t happy with the uncertainty that ‘mom might not come home’ either.”

Marano shifted her career goals. Then, in 2019, she got to work as a K9 handler for a private organization. “There, I learned so much about K9s, the struggles among departments, and their lack of funding for their units,” says Marano.

Three years ago, she founded K-911 Paws Foundation. Since then, the team has assisted K9 units nationwide. “We have provided funds for flotation vests for dogs, assisted multiple agencies, helped build medical kits, provided decoy suits for training, and even dental work,” says Marano.

You can donate to K-911 Paws Foundation through the website.

Director Shelly Marano

ARTICLE BY GRETCHEN PAHIA PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINE ANDERT— PICTURE LADY PHOTOGRAPHY LLC

Backyard Chickens

Chickens have become increasingly popular as pets in both suburban and urban areas during the last 20 years. Backyard chickens may seem to be an unsuspecting animal to keep as a pet, but the tried and true egg producers are back in fashion as food costs are soaring and families are looking for more food independence in light of recent supply chain shortages.

There’s a lot to like about raising chickens in your backyard. Surprisingly, chickens are relatively low-maintenance. And bonus—unlike dogs, they don’t need to be bathed or groomed, and they don’t shed on your clothes or require training. Could backyard chickens be the perfect pet/producer to add to your home?

Things to Consider Before Getting Chickens:

First, check local town ordinances to ensure that keeping chickens is even allowed in your neighborhood or if there is a limit to the number of chickens you can keep at once.

Make sure you have the space for a henhouse or a full-size chicken coop. It has to hold a feeder and water containers, a roosting area, and a nest box for every three hens. A proper coop should be large enough that you can stand in it to gather eggs and shovel manure comfortably, but a simple henhouse can be quite a bit smaller. Plus, any housing must be sturdy enough to keep your chickens safe from all the predators out there. Gorgeous coops are aplenty on places like Pinterest if you’re building your own, but many pre-made options are available through various farm supply stores as well.

Chickens need food and water daily. Feed is about $20 per 50-pound bag, but prices vary depending on your location and the quality of the feed. How long a bag lasts depends on the number of chickens you have.

Hens will lay eggs through spring and summer and into the fall, as long as they have 12 to 14 hours of daylight. Expect to collect eggs daily, or even twice a day.

Everything you need to get started on your backyard coop.

Backyard Chicken Q&A:

HOW MANY CHICKENS SHOULD I KEEP?

Chickens are sociable creatures, so plan to keep three to six birds at least. With this amount, you’ll always have a steady supply of eggs, since an adult hen lays about two eggs every three days, on average. Local ordinances also dictate how many chickens one household can keep.

HOW MUCH DOES KEEPING CHICKENS COST?

All of this costs money, of course. The materials to build and furnish a coop and a 20 x 5-foot run—including wood, fencing, and hardware—are going to set you back at least $300. If you can’t do this work yourself, you’ll also be buying skilled labor.

Overall, expect to spend between $500 and $700 when getting started depending on the size of your flock, coop and run. For prefabricated coops, expect to pay $600 or more.

WHAT KIND OF SHELTER DO THEY NEED?

Chickens need to have an enclosed coop that provides adequate space, protection from the elements and predators, and good ventilation. A modified shed, barn, or stable with an outdoor run is a good option for a coop. The outdoor run should be fully enclosed if you have predators like hawks or owls nearby. Ideally, coops are slightly elevated off the ground to prevent flooding and have windows on each side, enough nest boxes to allow several chickens to nest simultaneously, outlets for lighting, fans if they’re needed, air inlets or ventilation holes on the roof, and a concrete floor treated with a pet-safe waterproof coating that allows for easy cleaning and drainage.

Want to go the fancy route?

Search Pinterest for “chicken coop building plans” if you’re building your own, or consider going the luxury route with a gorgeous custom-built coop from a company like CutestCoops.com.

WHEN DO CHICKENS START LAYING EGGS?

Most hens will start laying eggs when they’re about 18 to 20 weeks old, although it may take more time for them to reach their peak output. Often, the first eggs are laid irregularly or are smaller or oddly shaped when compared with a typical egg. This is nothing to worry about! Once a cycle is established, most hens will lay one egg per day.

Ourjobistoserveourcommunitybyeducating ourprospectivecustomersfirst,thenallowing themtodecidethebestlong-termenergy-efficient solutionssuitableforthem.

The Road to Perfection

Glendale Teen Earns Top Score on ACT Test

ARTICLE BY ANGEL FUCHS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA OXFORD

One local teenager just accomplished something extraordinary. Alessandro Marcolini is a 17-year-old Glendale student who recently scored 36 on the ACT, a standardized test used for college admissions. Scoring 34 or higher puts the test taker in the top one percent, but a perfect 36 is rare. Only 0.313 percent of all test takers earn a perfect ACT score.

Marcolini is a student at Great Hearts Glendale Preparatory Academy (GlendalePrep.GreatHeartsAmerica.org ) at 23276 N 83rd Avenue in Peoria. Marcolini has been a Great Hearts student since second grade and is a member of the school's choir, tennis team, and robotics club. “I got into robotics after

attending a coding camp in fifth grade,” he said. “I joined my school's robotics club in eighth grade.”

Marcolini started preparing for the ACT by taking practice tests, but he really attributes his success to always paying attention in class. He has always been a great student with a 5.6 “weighted” grade point average and 4.0 “unweighted.”

Marcolini resides with his parents and two younger siblings in Glendale. He says he is undecided on where he wants to attend college or what he wants to do as a career. As an incoming senior at Great Hearts, he's most looking forward to the class trip to Washington, D.C.

Alessandro Marcolini

“The best thing to do when preparing for the ACT is to do well in school the whole time and really pay attention.”

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OUR FURRY FRIENDS

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE FURRY FRIENDS FROM YOUR NORTH PEORIA/ARROWHEAD NEIGHBORS

ARTICLE BY SUSAN LANIER-GRAHAM

See more of these pets and their owners on Instagram. Have a pet you want us to consider for a future issue? Be sure to share your furry friend on Instagram and tag us @NorthPeoriaLifestyle #NorthPeoriaLifestyle.

1. Chloe the Corgi—@Nicki_Balzarini_Photography | 2. Honey the Bernedoodle —@BailysRanchAZ | 3. Hugo the Yellow Lab —@AZEscapades | 4.  Maximus—@GCCreativeWorks | 5.  Mila the Rhodesian Ridgeback (with friends)—@YourTopAgent_ NicoleOrosco | 6.  Mooncakes the English Bulldog—@AZ_Local_MLO | 7.  Oso the Rottweiler—@OsoYummy_DogTreats | 8. Teddy the Australian Shepherd—JoezGirl | 9. Tucker the Feline —@GheorghitaDanielaa

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