ANNUAL HOUSING GUIDE
WE KNOW HOW MANY TESTS AND QUIZZES YOU TAKE, BUT WE THINK THIS ONE WILL BE YOUR FAVORITE. HERE IS A QUICK QUIZ ON SOMETHING POPULAR OR IMPORTANT WE THINK YOU NEED TO KNOW.
How did director Wes Anderson and actor Owen Wilson meet?
A. They bonded while taking a screenwriting class in college.
B. They pledged the same fraternity in college.
C. They were college roommates.
? POP QUIZ
ANSWER: Both A and C are correct. Ever wonder why Owen Wilson seems to appear in every single Wes Anderson film? That’s because he has. The two hit it off at a screenwriting class in their sophomore year at the University of Texas at Austin and decided to be roomies. The rest is history. The pair even co-wrote cult classic Rushmore
NUMBERS
In a recent study, 76 percent of student residents said having their own bathroom was the most important feature when looking for an apartment.
52 percent of college freshmen attend college within 100 miles of their hometown. More than 30 percent of people ages 18 to 34 live in their parents’ house.
The West Sixth II apartment building is 345 feet tall and has 30 floors, making it the tallest building in Tempe.
At public colleges across the country, 40 percent of full-time students live on campus.
The average one-bedroom apartment in Phoenix costs $926 per month.
On average, students spend more than $900 per year decorating their dorms.
Members of fraternities and sororities spend nearly $8,000 per year on room, board and dues.
Ikea’s annual revenue is $37.8 billion.
The average person spends 6 minutes looking for their house keys in the morning.
80 percent of clutter in homes is the result of disorganization, not lack of space.
HOUSINGANNUALGUIDE
PUBLISHER
Steve T. Strickbine
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Niki D'Andrea
EDITOR
Madison Rutherford
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Connor Dziawura, Carson Mlnarik
DESIGNER
Christy Byerly
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Aaron Kolo dny
STREET TEAM MANAGER Chuck Morales III
DISTRIBUTION FIELD MANAGER Mark “Cowb oy” Lucero
ASSOCIATE ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Nadine Whitehead Distribution Services Provided By
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11 THINGS YOU PROBABLY DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT…
ADULTING IN YOUR FIRST APARTMENT
You may have survived until your 18th birthday, but you haven’t really achieved true adulthood until you’re forced to put yourself on a strict ramen diet to pay rent. We’ve all been there. In fact, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard, nearly 43 million American households are renters. Though
finding the perfect apartment and signing a lease may seem stressful, remember millions of people are in the same boat. Here’s what you need to know about how to successfully “adult” in your new digs and avoid going mental over your first rental.
11
READ THE FINE PRINT
Blindly agreeing to anything is never a good idea, whether it’s meeting up with that too-goodto-be-true Tinder date or signing up for that “easy” engineering elective. Like most things in college, it’s important to do your research. Signing your first lease is no exception. You don’t have to be fluent in legalese to sign a lease, but you should be smart about what you’re signing. Read the entire document thoroughly, especially the fine print. If you don’t understand something, ask your landlord to clarify.
10
BAKING SODA IS YOUR BEST FRIEND
Having your own apartment means a lot more freedom, but it also means a lot more responsibility — and a lot more space to clean. All you have to do is cop a case of baking soda, which is a cheap cleaning catch-all. Use it on stubborn carpet stains, kitchen counters, stovetops, toilets and bathtubs. It also serves as a topnotch deodorizer and detergent. Sprinkle it on virtually any surface to remove tough scuff marks and grease stains, pour down the drain to unclog, use it to refresh the fridge or scrub stainless steel and tarnished silverware to make them sparkle.
9
SAVE MOOLA DURING YOUR MOVE
Moving to a new spot can be a huge expense, whether it’s across town or across the country, so cutting costs is crucial. Save money on your move by finding packing boxes behind businesses or on Craigslist. Use old newspapers and magazines or clothing, socks and pillows to pack fragile items. Rent a moving truck yourself or compare moving companies to find the best deal (or use beer and pizza to bribe your best friends to help).
8
GIVE YOURSELF SOME CREDIT
Most landlords will ask for credit scores, a background check and your housing history. If you have poor or no credit or this is your first time renting, you might need a co-signer — a parent or other trusted relative with good credit history and a stable income who will pay the rent on time if you can’t.
7
WHAT THE HECK IS RENTER’S INSURANCE? AND DO I NEED IT?
Renter’s insurance is like car insurance or health insurance for anything that could go down in your apartment, from breakins to structure fires. A renter’s insurance policy will cover the cost of damaged, lost or stolen items. Though it’s not always required, renter’s insurance is a great resource and can cost as little as $15 to $20 a month, which is way less than it would cost to replace your laptop, phone and comic book collection.
6
BILLS, BILLS, BILLS
Another important part of apartment life is paying for water and electricity. While going without AC or frequent showers in the summer isn’t an option, there are dozens of ways to save on your utility bill. For starters, you can replace all your light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, which use less power and last longer while emitting the same level of light. Invest in a few surge protectors or power strips to turn off all your appliances with the flick of a switch and use electric blankets in the winter and fans in the summer to avoid using your thermostat as much as possible.
5
LAWS OF THE LAND(LORD)
Think of your first apartment as a library book; you want to return it in the same condition it was in when you first checked it out. Be aware renters are forbidden from making any significant modifications to the property without permission and be careful
you don’t make any accidental modifications (i.e. carpet stains or holes in the wall). There are certain rules landlords must abide by as well, such as giving tenants privacy and notice of any changes in the lease.
4
ROOM FOR TWO
Most people opt to live with a roommate in their first apartment to split rent. If you choose to live with roommates, it’s important to hold them accountable. All tenants should sign the lease. It’s possible to break a lease but that doesn’t mean it’s easy, so make sure you know what you’re singing up for and if you’re doing it with someone you trust.
3
PAWS CLAUSE
If you have a four-legged friend you can’t live without, make sure you’re wise on the apartment’s pet policies. Some only allow cats and others are very strict about housing only human tenants. Even if they allow dogs, ask if there’s a weight limit or breed restriction. There are pet-friendly places on the market, but be prepared to pay up. “Dogs are welcome” doesn’t translate to “Dogs are free.”
2
SECURITY CHECKPOINT
Most landlords will ask for first and last month’s rent up-front as well as a security deposit that, assuming you don’t damage the place (see #5), will be returned when you move out. Walk around with your landlord the day you move in and make a note of any preexisting damages so you don’t get dinged for them later on.
1
PAY YOUR DUES
The rent is due the same day every month, usually on the first unless otherwise discussed with your landlord. If a tenant doesn’t pay rent on time, they may be subject to eviction. The landlord must legally give the tenant a fiveday written notice before kicking them out. CT
GTFO!
THE LITTLE MERMAID
No matter which Disney princess movie is your favorite, you have to admit no one goes harder than Sebastian the lobster in “Under the Sea.” Catch Ariel, Prince Eric, Flounder and Ursula in real life with this imaginative live musical performance.
Dream City Church, 13613 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix, summermusical. org, times vary, Thursday, July 13 to Sunday, July 16, $10-$32.50.
SCIENCE WITH A TWIST: TREK, WARS AND WHO
To which fandom do you pledge allegiance? The Arizona Science Center celebrates Star Trek, Star Wars and Doctor Who with an evening takeover.
Whether you’re trying to see the solar system, snag an intergalactic cocktail or just show off your cosplay costume, you can have it all.
Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, azscience. org, 6 p.m., Friday, July 21, $12.
THE WURST FESTIVAL EVER
Sit, stay, play dead— or at least play stuffed. Short Leash Hot Dogs presents their second “wurst” festival celebrating the food that’s made them a staple: Hot dogs! Snag a ticket and relish in the local beer and innovative hot dog recipes but stay for the Suns Out Puns Out Competition. Where else are you gonna find that?
Short Leash Hot Dogs, 110 E. Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, shortleashhotdogs.com,
5 p.m., Saturday, July 22, $10.
KHALID
The smooth voice of 19-year-old Khalid probably caught your attention on his platinum hit “Location,” but the Texas-born songwriter still has an armful of hits up his sleeve. His album American Teen shows this up-and-comer has a voice to remember and great fodder for a live show full of good vibes. Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, celebritytheatre.com, 8 p.m. Sunday, July 23, $30-$53.
SUPER HERO DAY AT SALT RIVER TUBING
Cooling down in Arizona doesn’t get any better than a tube ride down the Salt River. Don’t forget to bring
sunscreen, your favorite canned sodas or brews (leave the glass at home) and extra cash to splurge on a tube for your cooler. Don’t miss Salt River Tubing’s theme days for a chance to break out your fave costumes, including Super Heroes Splashdown on July 29. Salt River Tubing, 9200 N. Bush Highway, Mesa, saltrivertubing.com, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 29, $17.
SCOTT PILGRIM CULT CLASSIC SCREENING
This Edgar Wright flick, based on a comic book series, was the indie video game movie you didn’t know you needed. The movie stars Michael Cera as Scott, who falls in love with Ramona, only to realize he has to defeat her seven evil exes. This special screening features general admission tickets as
CARSON MLNARIK
well as VIP options for those looking to take home some Cult Classic swag. Cult Classics, 1825 E. Elliot Road, Tempe, scottpilgrim.bpt.me, 9:30 p.m., Saturday, July 29, $11-$40.
JOHN MAYER
Whether he’s dating Katy Perry, tweeting or singing about your father, there’s something dreamy about John Mayer. See the crooner in action when he brings his live show to Phoenix, riding the waves of this year’s The Search for Everything. Might want to bring your lighter— or at least some Kleenex— for when Mayer hits “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room.” Talking Stick Resort Arena, 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, talkingstickresortarena.com, 7 p.m., Tuesday, August 1, $35-$408.
ED SHEERAN
England’s resident ginger singersongwriter, Ed Sheeran, has become a worldwide pop star in the past year. His new album has already brought hits “Shape of You” and “Castle on the Hill” to the radio. Real fans, however, know it’s in his catalog of heartbroken scream-along jams where Sheeran’s a master with a mic and a loop pedal. Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland Ave., Glendale, edsheeran.com, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, August 5, $125-$250.
YAPPY HOUR
Every Saturday, DeSoto Central Market celebrates pooches with Yappy Hour. With early August temperatures hinting at fall’s eventual arrival, it’s the perfect time to brush up on DeSoto’s hip food and drink options as well as snag some deals for your four-legged friend. DeSoto Central Market, 915 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, desotocentralmarket. com, 11 a.m. Saturday, August 12, free.
BETTY WHO
Give summer break one last hurrah with an intimate show by indie pop queen Betty Who. Known for her appearance on Troye Sivan’s “Heaven,” as well as for her cover of “I Love You Always Forever,” this Australian musician’s learned from the best, having opened for Katy Perry and Kylie Minogue.
Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Ave., Phoenix, crescentballroom.com, 8 p.m. Monday, August 14, $17-$99. CT
BETTY WHO
TEMPE RANKED NO. 4
MO$T AFFORDABLE COLLEGE TOWN
CONNOR DZIAWURA • COLLEGE TIMES
Students have a slew of decisions to make when they graduate high school and gear up for college. From determining a major to which university is the best fit, students are faced with plenty of new experiences. There are
a handful of great college towns in Arizona alone, whether you become a Lumberjack and move to Flagstaff, a Wildcat in Tucson or a Sun Devil in Tempe. A unique set of challenges and benefits comes with the territory.
On May 10, Colorado-based technology startup TurboTenant revealed its ranking of the top five most affordable college towns in America, placing Tempe and Arizona State University at No. 4. Citing its bicyclefriendly community, nightlife and degree programs, among other criteria, Tempe was able to edge out many of the 100 surveyed towns. The final list also included Ohio State University, Penn State, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Michigan State University.
But for TurboTenant, which provides free software for landlords, affordability is arguably the most important part, with the company primarily analyzing rental costs within five miles of each major university.
reflected by students as well.
“I think it’s a perfect place for students who live here to get their degree,” says ASU junior Abdul Al Buaij.
Tempe also features a host of activities and locales that TurboTenant took into consideration. In addition to the city’s 175 miles of bikeways, Tempe features the ever-popular Mill Avenue, a nearby hot spot filled with everything from nightlife to clothing shops and delicious and affordable pizza joints.
When the list was released, TurboTenant approached it with the desire to help their clients while also providing important information to Tempe residents.
DIFFERENT BY DESIGN: Crescent Highland is a recently constructed complex on Highland and 16th Street in Phoenix. The affordable luxury apartments are now leasing and feature three custom, hand-painted murals by local artist Tato Caraveo. Under construction amenities include a pool, courtyards, a rooftop deck and fitness center. Alliance Residential Company, the developer behind Crescent Highland, is currently building a 150-unit community near Tempe Town Lake called Broadstone Lakeside.
“For the most part, they are picked basically because they’re a town that is both affordable for renters to live in, there’s lots of renters in those towns and they’re a place where landlords can get a good return on a rental property,” says Paul Ronto, Director of Growth, Outreach & Marketing for TurboTenant.
“Our goal is to help independent landlords manage their rentals without the need for a property manager,” Ronto says. “What we do here is help landlords by offering free marketing services, free tenant screening services, like criminal checks, background checks, credit checks. We help landlords collect rent online.”
According to TurboTenant, the average two-bedroom monthly rental price is $1,266, and many such options are available near campus for students.
One such complex is Green Leaf Tempe Station. Close proximity to campus is just one major selling point for the apartments.
While Ronto says the process took approximately two weeks to complete, the company used data software blended with live research to achieve its results.
“We have direct access to the light rail, which is convenient for those without transportation,” says Renee Castanos, community manager for Green Leaf Tempe Station. “We are centrally located just far enough from campus without having all the congestion.”
But for Castanos, it’s not just affordability that makes Tempe a great college town. Citing the weather, diversity and the many opportunities for social activity, this makes Tempe a great place for college students attending ASU, a sentiment oft-
“We’ve got a software that we use that compiles actual demographic data from towns throughout the U.S. on actual rentals that are being rented,” Ronto explains. “We can look at market trends on rentals over the last 12 months compared to the last 36 months and be able to tell how rent prices are going up.”
Through the research team, TurboTenant also blends this data with other aggregated information, such as walkability and livability scores for each city.
While the research was not short of college towns to study, Tempe and ASU were able to edge out many other strong candidates, continuing to show that Arizona has some of the best college opportunities in the country. CT
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CRESCENT HIGHLAND
HOUSING 101
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU DORM?
CARDBOARD BOX?
Choosing the right housing is just as important as choosing the right class; after all, you’re going to need a place to take naps when the library is closed.
Your best housing situation probably depends on a lot of different things, like budget and distance. Make sure to consider all your options or you might not dig your new digs.
DISTANCE
How important is living close to campus? Do you travel by car, bike or foot?
If you don’t have a car, you’ll have to make sure you’ve got a way to get to class. Thankfully, nearby apartment complexes and neighborhoods are very bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly. Also, Tempe’s free Orbit shuttle service runs near many apartments and drops off by the football stadium.
If you’re a little farther away, you might be able to walk or park at a light-rail station and catch a ride down to the Tempe or Downtown campuses. But with more distance comes a longer commute.
Lucky for you, ASU not only has freshman and upper-division housing, but it’s also surrounded by apartments, neighborhoods and every fast food place you can imagine.
complexes don’t feature in-unit washer and dryers. Residents here hit up the community laundry room, where they pay by card. Other places have both appliances, allowing you to tumble dry your underwear as much as you want.
Also consider the trash situation. Many highrise complexes have trash chutes, but you might be wheeling your own bin to the curb each week. Dorms and certain complexes also have strict rules about using tacks or painting on the walls. If you have an attachment to picture frames or having yellow walls in your kitchen, you’ll want to opt for somewhere that allows more freedom.
ROOMIES
Your perfect match might be a click, an ad or a friend away.
Consider gaps between classes, extracurriculars and the weather. How long a ride can you fit into your day? How sweaty are you prepared to be?
For those with wheels, don’t forget to take into account how painfully slow the traffic can be near campus and the pricey parking garages. Depending on your class, you might be walking a mile or so from where you parked.
AMENITIES
So you’ve got your radius down; now consider the necessities.
Many nearby apartment complexes offer “per bed” rates where you pay a flat fee each month that covers your Wi-Fi, cable, electricity, water and rent. These often come furnished, which is handy for students who live out of state or those who just hate shopping.
Other apartment complexes might offer cheaper rent but require you to set up and pay your cable and electric bills. Some students opt to rent a house together and pay a landlord each month.
If you live in the dorms or certain apartment complexes, you can register for random roommate selection and get paired up with someone based on a simple questionnaire. If you’re a little more flexible on your location, there are many ASU online groups and ads dedicated to finding and replacing roommates in nearby complexes.
For those determined to live it up with a bestie or acquaintance, make sure to find someone you can agree with over master or shared bedroom situations.
Does your roommate stay up late? Do they like to have guests? Whether you live with your best friend or a stranger, you have to consider how you might clash and what rules you want to establish.
You should also watch out for your own annoying habits. Brushing your teeth in the kitchen or playing music at 4 a.m. may fly for some people but not others.
COMMUNITY
What kind of community experience are you looking for?
If you want to be super-involved in campus life, living in the dorms with a Community Assistant and weekly floor events might be your best fit. However, if you have a full- or part-time job, or don’t plan to spend a lot of time on campus, you might feel more comfortable at an apartment complex. Many complexes have community pools and gyms at no additional cost. Some even feature lounges with TVs or cafes.
If you’re looking to meet a lot of college students your age, you’re probably better off living closer to campus. Many students prioritize distance so the closer you are, the closer the “college town” feel might be.
What appliances run your life? ASU dorms and some nearby apartment
It’s important to ask yourself where you want to experience this exciting phase of your life. At the end of the day, however, the most important part is picking a place where you feel comfortable and safe. Happy hunting! CT
CARSON MLNARIK • COLLEGE TIMES
does ramen count?
HOW TO DECIDE ON THE RIGHT PLACE TO LIVE
My friends call me emeril! duh, we’re like the cast of friends.
Probably not
I have four wheels... but they’re attached to a piece of wood. : ( Yeah, I’m Whippin’
ABSOLUTELY!
I DON’T CARE, AS LONG AS THERE’S NOT BUNK BEDS.
Zzzzquil, curling up with my kindle & brewing my own kombucha a concert at crescent
once a year once a month
i literally can’t keep a cactus alive. my entire hand is green, fam.
Kendrick lamar’s new album b. anxiety naps “bubblegum Trap” “bathtime bangers” ““tracks to twerk to”
c. COnspiracy theory podcasts
PLACES NEARBY TO CHECK OUT....
E. Warner Rd.
E. Ray Rd.
Williams
You can choose your roommate, your classes and your bedspread, but you can’t choose your dorm.
At ASU, incoming freshmen are assigned a residence hall based upon their major. From move-in to moveout, students are networking with the people they’ll be working with in the future. There’s also a lot of crying, coffee-drinking and laundry-folding. While there’s no way to prepare yourself for all-nighters and dining hall food, you can start by wrapping your head around which small, square space you might call home.
If you’ve been accepted into Barrett , The Honor’s College, you can call the building at Rural and Apache Boulevard your new digs. The Barrett Residential Complex comprises multiple towers, professor offices and a dining hall modeled after the Great Hall in the Harry Potter movies. Students live in double or single rooms with shared suite bathrooms.
While you’re living there, make sure to frequent Barrett’s gelato bar – you’re gonna need it as you stress-eat your
CARSON MLNARIK • COLLEGE TIMES
way through your first seminar class. If business is your major of choice, you’ll be hanging out with other Carey kids at Hassayampa (“Hassy”). Close enough to Barrett to occasionally snag some of its gelato, Hassy has its own dining hall and double-occupancy rooms.
The biggest perk, however, is that Hassy’s the closest dorm to the campus mini-Walmart. A single crosswalk stands in the way of you and all the junk food you desire.
If you’ve opted for a major in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you’ll be on the opposite end of campus at Manzanita . Don’t worry; it’s not a complete ghost town – there’s still a Starbucks and a Jamba Juice.
Manzy kids are close to the science buildings and sports venues, so it’s only a short walk to class and home games. While the winding, windowed building is a bit retro, it was recently renovated to include its own dining hall and suitestyle bathrooms.
The newest dorm on the block, for freshmen majoring in engineering, is
Tooker House . Students can opt for single or double rooms and can hit up their own dining hall and hang out in the lounges.
This fall, Tooker will also feature special eSpace classrooms, where 100-level engineering classes will be taught. You can literally roll out of bed and go to class, but we do recommend changing out of your pajamas.
Artists, designers, dancers and creators in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts are smack-dab in the middle of campus at Best, Hayden or Irish Hall at the Arcadia Residential Community.
Your room is steps away from ASU Gammage Auditorium, in case you want to catch a student discount at a touring Broadway show or even snag a part-time job.
The dorms feature study halls, computers for video editing and art and studio spaces for late-night inspiration. While Arcadia’s communal bathroom situation might not be ideal, the red brick, paint and huge orange trees make the exterior walls a killer place
DORM DAZED YOUR GUIDE TO ASU’S RESIDENTIAL HALLS
for an Instagram photoshoot.
If you’re a student in the teacher’s college or the school of sustainability, you might find yourself a resident at Adelphi Commons.
Adelphi provides prime access to the underrated Tempe Whataburger and features its own convenience store, where you can use your meal swipes or M&G dollars.
The communal laundry room and kitchen are good places to hang when you’re not molding minds or saving the ecosystem.
Whether your dorm experience is a dream or a nightmare, you’re never going to be a freshman in college again. Take advantage of your dining hall swipes, proximity to campus and even talk to your roommate now and then. By the end of the year, your twin XL might just be your favorite place.
CT
Hit the Lights! THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SETTING UP YOUR UTILITIES
Cool air, lights, water, garbage collection, cable and internet may seem like basic human rights, but it may come as a surprise that these “simple luxuries” aren’t
THE BASICS
INTERNET/CABLE
Valley residents can get Wi-Fi set up at their home or apartment for about $10 to $50 per month. Cable or satellite TV can run from as little as $25 to as much as $150. However, you may want to opt out of cable to cut costs and instead invest in a Netflix, Hulu or HBO GO account.
TRASH
If you live in an apartment complex, a flat fee will likely be tacked onto your monthly rent and utilities expenses. If you live in a house, weekly trash and recycling pickup is roughly $20 a month. Visit phoenix.gov/ garbage to find out when “Trash Day” is where you live.
GAS
Most modern apartments use electricity instead of gas, but older homes use gas to run appliances such as dryers and heating systems. Southwest Gas provides low-maintenance energy solutions for the Valley. Your monthly bill can range from $30 to $120, depending on the season and your situation.
ELECTRICITY
There are two companies — Arizona Public Service (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP) — that provide electricity to residents of
metro Phoenix. Your electricity bill will depend greatly on your comfort level. Prepare to pay an average of $60 for a small one-bedroom apartment, which can skyrocket to about $150 to $200 during the sweltering summer months. Many Valley residents do a managed payment plan, in which they pay a fixed price every month to avoid sticker shock when summer rolls around.
WATER
Most of the Valley’s water and sewer services are operated by the individual municipalities. You can either call the city in which you live to turn on your water or pay your apartment complex or landlord directly. Expect to pay about $30 to $50 per month.
PRO TIPS
• Check with your apartment complex or landlord to see what utilities they cover. Contact your landlord and find out what companies are providing utilities services for the apartment. Usually apartment buildings include trash and recycling in the rent; however, if you are renting a house or a large apartment, your landlord may charge an extra fee for those services.
• Call the utility company to get things set up. If you haven’t established a decent
simple to pay for or set up. Here’s how to make sure you have everything you need (and nothing you don’t) and how to save a little dough along the way.
credit record yet, you might have to pay a deposit to get things started, which is usually refunded after a year of prompt payments. We recommend calling the utility companies a few weeks in advance and scheduling the hook-up dates for a few days before move-in. Moving day will be a lot less stressful when you know all your utilities are properly working without a hitch.
• Pay your bills or pay the price. It seems simple, but a payment that is a few days delinquent can land you in a sweltering hot apartment without water or entertainment. Registering for automatic bill pay can protect you from missing payments or paying late. The amount will automatically be withdrawn from your account each month, taking the hassle out of writing a check or remembering a login.
• Calculate your home energy costs. Use an online energy cost calculator to measure the average amount you will pay based on your electrical energy usage. Simply Google “generic electrical energy cost calculator” and plug in how often you use your lights, kitchen appliances, laundry machine and miscellaneous appliances like fans, vacuums and hair dryers.
• Build a budget. After you calculate the cost of your electricity, factor it into your overall budget. Consider how much you spend on food, clothes, school supplies and bills for your cell phone or credit card. This will give you an idea of how much you spend over a period of time and where you can cut costs.
• Split all utility costs with your roommate(s). If you have a roommate, consider putting half of the accounts in your name and half in their name. This way, you can both be held accountable and build credit. CT
• Use the bare minimum. To save a little moola, turn off the lights, TV and any other electric appliances whenever you leave the room. Also be aware that power companies often charge more (peak usage rates) for electricity during the day. Power is generally cheaper after 9 p.m. and on weekends. Don’t turn your air completely off during the day in the summer; it will take more energy to cool it down than to keep it running all day.
SMALL SPACE, BIG STYLE
7 WAYS TO MAXIMIZE SPACE IN A STUDIO APARTMENT
MADISON RUTHERFORD • COLLEGE TIMES
For many of us, our first studio apartment was a mismatched mess of poorly put-together Ikea furniture, a couch from Craiglist and a “storage system” consisting of cardboard boxes. We could never find our keys and we were always confused as to whether we were in the kitchen, bedroom, living room, guest room or dining room. But, at some point, after we lost
1. Store your stuff in unique ways. Instead of cramming all your books and baubles on a shelf, get boxes or baskets to create a less cluttered look or organize books and magazines by size and color to make things cohesive.
2. Use mirrors to create the illusion of a bigger space. Take a page from a magician’s handbook and use mirrors to form an illusion. This trick is simple: The more reflective surfaces there are in your space, the bigger it will look. Line one wall with a large, horizontal mirror or place several small ones around your space to eradicate a cramped vibe. Consider placing a mirror across from a window to reflect light and make the room seem larger.
3. Use curtains to separate your space. Hang curtains to divide your space into separate “rooms” and create privacy. If you’re tired of waking up and staring straight at a sink full of dirty dishes or a cluttered kitchen table, put curtains around your bed (or around your kitchen!).
4. But don’t put them on your windows. Ditch the dark-colored drapes. Instead, opt for sheer curtains or none at all; this will create an airy atmosphere and add depth to your digs.
our phones in a 600 square-foot space more times than we’d like to admit, we realized that “studio” doesn’t have to be synonymous with “cluttered” or “lacking space.” You don’t have to freak out about the lack of square footage in your spot or sacrifice style (and sanity) when space is at a premium. Scope out these stylish, space-saving tips to transform your tiny dwelling into a sprawling sanctuary.
5. Get innovative with your furniture. Turn a shelf into a “breakfast bar” instead of taking up space with a clunky kitchen table. Hang hooks or shelves by your bed to store things that commonly clutter a bedside table. Pieces of furniture that have more than one purpose are also a plus, such as ottomans that also serve as a storage space or coffee table.
6. Find the beauty in blank space. College students are notorious for being borderline hoarders, with everything from pizza boxes to postcards from home. Not every corner of your apartment needs to be filled with crap, and eliminating clutter will make your space appear bigger and make you feel less claustrophobic. Decluttering can seem like a daunting task, so use this simple rule to help streamlines the process: If you haven’t used it in the past year or wouldn’t buy it now, it’s time to part ways.
7. Choose a cohesive color scheme. Create unity in your apartment by using different shades of the same color in your décor and going monochromatic when it comes to furniture. A white bed frame paired with black bedside tables and wooden chairs will make a space look clunky and cluttered, while all white furniture creates visual fluidity. CT
6 WAYS TO STAY SAFE AT HOME & ON CAMPUS
We all remember our parents yelling “…and be careful!” after us any time we would leave the house when we were younger.
But the older we get, the more we realize being reckless has its repercussions and that there’s a slew of situations requiring us to have our wits about us. Not only will you start to be more careful, but you might even start to tell others (roommates, friends, significant others) to be careful, too. Don’t freak out; you’re not turning into your parents. This is just a symptom of growing up and transitioning into “the real world.” It’s actually a super dope place to be if you have a few simple safety strategies up your sleeve.
Some advice:
BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Being alert and prepared for any situation doesn’t mean you have to be the creepy kid in the back of the room with a belt full of sprays, gels and contraptions, but it does mean using
common sense to make smart and safe decisions. Whether you’re on campus or out on the town, it’s important to know who’s around you. This will allow you to know who you can turn to for help and who to avoid, like the creepy kid in the back of the room with a belt full of sprays, gels and contraptions.
ALWAYS HAVE AN EXIT STRATEGY
The same technique used to bail on bad dates can be applied to all areas of your life, whether you’re at home, on campus or elsewhere — always prepare an escape plan. Have a party buddy to call on if you become uncomfortable in social situations, like if you feel threatened by more than that drunk frat guy’s bad breath. It’s also important to know the fastest way to get out of your classrooms or your home in case of an emergency.
CHARGE YOUR PHONE EVERY NIGHT
This might be a no-brainer for those of us who check Instagram and
Snapchat right before we go to bed (and right when we wake up), but keeping your phone alive could also mean saving your own life or someone else’s. Our phones are a great way to stay entertained and connected, but they can also help us in emergencies. Make sure you have the campus and local police phone numbers programmed into your phone in case you find yourself in a sticky situation, or witness one going down.
GET ICE’D
ICE stands for “In Case of Emergency.” ICE phone numbers should be clearly marked in your phone, so if a firefighter or police officer needs to call your family, he or she can easily find your emergency contacts in your phone.
INVEST IN AN INEXPENSIVE HOME ALARM
TRAVEL IN GROUPS
It may sound cliché, but there truly is safety in numbers. We’re not telling you to be attached at the hip with your homies, but when leaving a party or crossing campus at night, it might be smart to hit up a few friends, or at least shoot them a text to let them know where you’re going. CT
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to cough up several c-notes to feel secure in your house or apartment. There are tons of affordable home security systems on the market, including high-quality cameras and personal security window and door alarms you can install yourself and all kinds of sensors and sirens specifically designed for small homes and apartments. Spend some time searching for home alarms and accessories on Amazon, where you can snag a sense of security for a low price.
THE RIGHT TRACK
A PEEK INSIDE THE PLAYLIST OF PHOENIX’S MOST INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE
Jordan White is the powerful frontwoman of Phoenix alt-rock band Jane N’ The Jungle. Born and raised in Phoenix, White studied musical theater in Los Angeles and New York at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. She started her career as a Hollywood coffeehouse singer, performed at rock venues on the iconic Sunset Strip and came back home to her roots to become one of Phoenix’s top powerhouse vocalists. She and her bandmates have set fire to the indie music scene with their electric live performances and songwriting. They’ve been promoting their debut EP and catchy single “Open Road Blues,” which is featured on a primetime Honda commercial. This summer, Jane N’ The Jungle will be representing Phoenix at festivals around the U.S. Stay tuned for their new single dropping soon, but in the meantime, check out their new music video for “Faded Stars” and read below to see what tunes inspired the songstress on her journey to success.
TOP 5 FAVORITE SONGS OF ALL TIME
“A Dustland Fairytale,” The Killers
“I’m a huge Killers fan. I love the poetic verses and story, ‘I saw Cinderella in a party dress but she was looking for a night gown.’ Seeing this song performed
live always gives me chills. I like Brandon (Flowers’) meaning behind the song and how it’s so personal to him, and as a listener you get to live this beautiful dustland fairytale.”
“Closer,” Kings of Leon
“My Kings of Leon vinyl is the most played record I own. I love this song more every time I hear it. Standing in a mass crowd of sweaty people vibing to this song is quite possibly one of my favorite things. The guitar riff and groove of this song strike my soul.”
“Cigarette Daydreams,” Cage The Elephant
“The first time I heard this song, I was standing in the pouring rain in Chicago a few years ago at Lollapalooza and was addicted ever since. The band dedicated this song to their family and thanked them for standing by their side, allowing them to pursue their dreams and living the artistic struggle with them. While listening, my life turns to black and white; everything’s in slow motion and I travel to a beautiful cigarette daydream, whether I’m standing in the pouring rain, driving in my car or simply just closing my eyes.”
“The Story,” Brandi Carlile
“I survived college by listening to Brandi Carlile.
Jordan White
Her voice is what inspired me to become a singersongwriter. I wanted to learn how to play the guitar so I could sing this song, so I started taking lessons. I can’t wait for the day I can see her perform live. My writing style is heavily influenced by Brandi.”
“Hotel California,” The Eagles
“A song played in my house a lot growing up. Reminds me of summertime swimming at the Melrose pool. I remember hearing this song in the Philippines while traveling with Up With People and it made me feel like I was home.”
PREFERRED WAY OF LISTENING
“I love to indulge music in a live performance setting, experiencing the band’s energy and vibe and feeling the magic in real time. To me, music is more of a feeling instead of just a sound; knowing that never again can you replicate that exact moment, the sound, the scent, the heat in the air, sweat on your face or the hair standing up on your arms, and for that small amount of time feeling alive like never before.”
GO-TO GUILTY PLEASURE TRACK OR CLASSIC KARAOKE TUNE
“You’re So Vain,” Carly Simon CT
CloZee
Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $13-$15
LIVE MUSIC CALENDAR
JULY 13
Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $12-$15
Laurie Morvan Band Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10
Mr. Mudd & Mr. Gold Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $8-$10
Mutoid Man
Rebel Lounge, 9:30 p.m., $15-$18 Salem’s Bend w/ White Light Cemetery Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
JULY 14
Anthony Hamilton Celebrity Theatre, 8:30 p.m., $41-$61
Erik Nakamoto
The Nash, 7:30 p.m., $5-$15
First or Last
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
Joshua Radin & Rachael Yamagata Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30-$44
Luxxe Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $15
Naughty Professor
Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $7-$10
People Who Could Fly
Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12
Ryan Caraveo
Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $15-$20
JULY 15
Azizi Gibson
Club Red, 7 p.m., $20-$23
Big Business Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12-$14
PopTop
Yucca Tap Room, 2 p.m., free The Sugar Thieves
Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $8 Trapfest Phoenix 2017
Pressroom, 8 p.m., $45-$250 Westfield Massacre
RockBar, 6 p.m., $12-$15
JULY 16
Beth Lederman
The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$8
Dirty Heads
Mesa Amphitheatre, 5:45 p.m., $30
Goo Goo Dolls w/Phillip Phillips
Comerica Theatre, 8 p.m., $48.50-$500
Honest Mollusk
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
JJ Thames
Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10-$12
<PIG> w/ Julien-K, Ghostfeeder
Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25
Tana Mongeau
Club Red – East, 6 p.m., $30-$190
Trey Odum
Yucca Tap Room, 1 p.m., free
JULY 17
As We Are
Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $8-$10
Palm
Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12
The Sword
Crescent Ballroom, 8:30 p.m., $20-$23
Whiskerman
Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $8-$10
JULY 18
The Flusters
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
Gina Sicilia
Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10-$12
Logic w/ Joey Bada$$
Mesa Amphitheatre, 6:30 p.m., $49.50
Sun Dried Vibes
Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $10-$12
Third Eye Blind
Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $49.95-$1,500
Thou w/ Cloud Rat
Beach Fossils
JULY 19
Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $16-$18
Chris Isaak
Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $60-$90
Jimmy Thackery
Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $15
Las Piñas
Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12
Sapien
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
Uncle Lucius
Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12-$14
JULY 20
Afton Showcase
Rhythm Room, 6:30 p.m., $11-$14
Blackberry Smoke
Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $30-$50
Shakewell w/ Ramirez, Germ Club Red, 7 p.m., $20-$40
JULY 21
Jonny Lang
Chandler Center for the Arts, 7:30 p.m.,
$38-$68
Flotsam and Jetsam
Club Red, 6 p.m., $18-$20
Guitar Shorty
Rhythm Room, 8:30 p.m., $12-$15
Playboi Carti
Marquee Theatre, 8 p.m., $35
The Sink or Swim
Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12
Spose
Pub Rock Live, 8 p.m., $15-$17
The Turtles
Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., $43-$75
Zealyn w/ Amy Guess
Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $10
JULY 22
Birdtalker
Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $12-$15
Mad Dog & The 20/20’s
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free Puscie Jones Revue
Rhythm Room, 9 p.m., $10
Rozwell Kid
Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $12-$14
Sabrina Carpenter
Comerica Theatre, 7 p.m., $119-$225
Wyves w/ Vista Kicks, Banana Gun, Bear Ghost, Mind Upside
Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $10-$15
The Yellow Payges
Rhythm Room, 6 p.m., $8
Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $8-$10
JULY 24
Delta Rae
Musical Instrument Museum, 7 p.m., $32$38
Levi Platero
Rhythm Room, 7 p.m., $12-$15
JULY 25
Lindsey Buckingham & Christine McVie Comerica Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $49.50-$245
Sydney Sprague
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
True Flavor Blues
Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $7
JULY 26
AJR
Pub Rock Live, 7 p.m., $16-$64
Leopold and His Fiction
Last Exit Live, 8:30 p.m., $10-$12
Lucky Devils
Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., free
Michelle Branch
Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $30-$125
The New Schematics
Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $10-$12
Quantum Split
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
JULY 27
All Get Out
Rebel Lounge, 7:30 p.m., $10-$12
The Ghoulies
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
RJ
Pub Rock Live, 9 p.m., $15-$20
Wes Williams Band Rhythm Room, 8 p.m., $10-$12
JULY 28
Dry River Yacht Club
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free The Life and Times Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12
JULY 29
Arise Roots w/ Dubbest Last Exit Live, 9 p.m., $10-$12
Emery
Nile Theater, 7 p.m., $10-$30 Froth
Valley Bar, 7:30 p.m., $12-$14
Jeff Rosenstock
Rebel Lounge, 8:30 p.m., $15
JULY 30
JULY 23
Dave Henning
The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$8
Divided Heaven
Yucca Tap Room, 8 p.m., free
Khalid
Celebrity Theatre, 8 p.m., sold out
Nicolas Jaar
Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $25-$30
Post Animal
Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $10-$12
Valley Queen
Ioannis Goudelis
The Nash, 6 p.m., $5-$8
Mason Valley Bar, 8 p.m., $10-$12
Matoma
Maya Day + Nightclub, 12 p.m., $15
JULY 31
A-Wa
Crescent Ballroom, 8 p.m., $23-$30
Unsane
Rebel Lounge, 8 p.m., $12-$15 CT
WE DON’T BELIEVE IN
TOTALLY ACCURATE PREDICTIONS
YOU SHOULD PROBABLY TAKE WITH A GRAIN OF SALT
AQUARIUS
(JANUARY 20-FEBRUARY 18)
There are too many inexperienced cooks in the kitchen and you’ve been waiting to show everyone what you’ve got. Now’s the time, Aquarius! Step up and have your voice heard… and if you have a summer job at a restaurant and this isn’t just metaphorical, all the better.
PISCES
(FEBRUARY 19-MARCH 20)
It may be summer break, but between vacations, work and summer classes, you’ve hardly had a minute to rest. Put on your favorite pajamas, grab your favorite ice cream and relax in front of your favorite reruns. It’s time to be conventionally lazy, ya overachiever!
ARIES
(MARCH 21-APRIL 21)
Your knack for predicting the future has paid off big time in your past gambles, but be careful: No winning streak lasts forever. (This is just a fancy way for us to say don’t spend all your rent money on fidget spinners.)
TAURUS
(APRIL 22-MAY 20)
Go out of your way to let someone know you care about them – send them a gift, write them a letter, let them use your parents’ Netflix account. It’s all about giving to those in need.
GEMINI
(MAY 21-JUNE 21)
We get it, Gemini, you have a Hydro Flask. Now come outside and enjoy the world around you. We promise your water will stay cold even when you’re not telling someone about it.
CANCER
(JUNE 22-JULY 22)
You never know when your next big adventure is going to find you. Judging by your lack of dates, party invites and time spent eating takeout, we think it’s going to be a while. But that’s just our opinion.
LEO
(JULY 23-AUGUST 22)
No one has summer spirit like you do. Enjoy these months hiking, swimming, camping and relaxing, but be forewarned: Thou whom does not wear sunscreen may get burned.
VIRGO
(AUGUST 23- SEPTEMBER 22)
Work has been taking over your life, and you’re spending every weekend working overtime. It’s a good thing you have one job and one job only: Staying cool.
LIBRA
(SEPTEMBER 23-OCTOBER 22)
How come vacations stress you out more than your day-today life? Throw some cucumber slices over your eyes and prop up your feet. If you’re still thinking about laundry, you’re doing it wrong.
SCORPIO
(OCTOBER 23-NOVEMBER 21)
Road trips make for perfect Instagram and Snapchat photos, but as with any cellular data-sucking occasion, be prepared to pay the consequences. We’re talking your mom, the phone bill and much more yelling than speakerphone can handle.
SAGITTARIUS
(NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 21)
You’re not one for making the first move, but someone’s caught your eye through the glass and you can’t resist. Go for it, Sagittarius; you know as well as anyone else how fast cheese Danishes go at Starbucks.
CAPRICORN
(DECEMBER 22-JANUARY 19)
If you can’t travel abroad this summer, find new ways to explore culture at home. Try some authentic Chinese food, see a foreign film or start planning your dream European excursion. No, listening to “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi and Justin Bieber doesn’t count. CT
Roosevelt Point is a fun, urban community in downtown Phoenix with a variety of oor plans, numerous amenities including multiple swimming pools, two modern tness centers and so much more. Everything you need and want is all right here, all that is missing is you. Reserve your space today before they’re gone. Apply and
