Have feedback, ideas or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 5th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: srusenovich@bestversionmedia.com
HOA Submission information
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.
Important Phone Numbers
Maricopa County Sheriff (Non-Emergency) 602-876-1011
Daisy Mountain Fire Department 623-465-7400
HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing
Medical Center
Dear Neighbors,
As we step into another month here in our beautiful desert community, I want to take a moment to say "welcome". Anthem Living Magazine was created to share your stories, celebrate local businesses, and shine a light on all the things that make life here so special.
In these pages, you’ll find good news, inspiring neighbors, local heroes, and events that bring us together. We celebrate our first responders, veterans, small businesses, and rescue pets - because family and community come in many forms here.
So take a moment to flip through, feel inspired, and maybe reach out to share a story of your own. This magazine is for you - and because of you.
Thank you for welcoming Anthem Living into your home each month. Here’s to a wonderful August and many more memories ahead!
Long before AnthemLivingreached your mailbox, these amazing business partners stood behind the idea of a publication devoted to local stories and real community connection. They signed on early, trusted our vision, and made this inaugural issue possible. We’re profoundly grateful for their belief and support and we invite you to thank them by supporting their locally owned businesses!
Back to Health of Anthem
623-551-6677
www.backtohealthofanthem.com
Banzerini House
602-887-8517
www.banzerinihouse.org
Doody Defense
480-939-9148
www.doodydefense.com
Emvee Salon & Hair Spa
630-608-7393
www.vagaro.com/emveesalon
Forefront Wealth Partners
480-493-0790
www.forefrontwealthpartners.com/ aspen-west/
H.A.R.E Heating and Refrigeration Experts, LLC
623-218-4645 www.harehvac.com
Justin Simons State Farm 623-551-3700 www.statefarm.com/agent/us/az/ anthem/justin-simons
L.A. Beauty Works 831-601-6394 l-a-beauty-works.square.site Leak Science LLC 480-794-0959 www.leakscience.com
Monsoon season in Arizona brings more than just relief from the summer heat. For many Anthem homeowners, it can also bring a wave of HVAC concerns, many of them caused by hidden water issues that slowly lead to system damage or even home repairs.
Most homes in Anthem are equipped with horizontal split systems, which include two primary components: the outdoor condenser unit and the indoor coil and furnace unit, typically located in the attic. The indoor unit includes a primary drain pan, built into the coil cabinet, and a secondary drain pan installed beneath the unit as a safeguard. While not all homes have both pans, most in our area do, and they play a vital role during monsoon season.
The condenser fan motor, located near the top of the outdoor unit, is especially vulnerable during extreme weather. Although these motors are designed for outdoor conditions and have internal drains to prevent rusting, rain can still enter through the top via factory seals. Over time, this moisture can damage the motor’s internal windings or bearings. As a result, performance drops, and the motor may eventually seize or fail altogether.
Inside the home, drainage issues are one of the most common culprits behind HVAC-related water damage. As your system removes humidity from the air, condensation is directed through the primary drain line. If this line becomes clogged, water will begin to overflow into the secondary drain pan, which is connected to a separate secondary drain line, typically visible near the roof or eaves. If you notice water actively dripping from this upper line, it means the system has switched to emergency drainage mode. This is not normal operation and is a sign that your primary drain line is blocked. A licensed HVAC technician should be called right away to evaluate the system before further damage occurs.
To add an extra layer of protection, many systems include a float switch, which monitors the water level in the primary pan. If water rises too high, the float switch shuts off the system to prevent overflow. Unfortunately, these switches are sometimes improperly installed, bypassed, or fail over time. Without one, leaks can go unnoticed until they create visible damage to insulation, drywall, and attic framing.
The most effective way to prevent these issues is with routine seasonal maintenance. Before monsoon season arrives, schedule a full system inspection. A trained technician can flush the drain lines, test the float switch, inspect the integrity of both pans, and check the outdoor condenser for signs of water intrusion.
At HARE Heating & Refrigeration Experts, we help Anthem homeowners stay cool, dry, and confident through every storm. If you spot water where it shouldn’t be, call us before a small problem turns into a costly repair.
The Whitman Family:
Endless Faith. Empty Nest.
As Don and Julie Whitman settle into their empty nest, they look back fondly on years filled with children, faith, and just enough chaos to make life interesting.
In 1992, Don spotted Julie teaching a fitness class at Bally’s Gym. His first thought?
“Man, check out that chick!” he says with a chuckle.
“I pursued her—left love notes, roses on her car…” Julie smiles. “My mom told me, ‘You’re going to marry him!’ And she was right.”
They met that fateful day in November, started dating the following spring, were engaged by September, and married in October of 1994.
“He wasn’t romantic,” Julie teases, “but those handwritten cards sealed the deal.”
In 1999, after entering a lottery to live in Anthem, their winning ticket landed them serendipitously on Whitman Court. A few years, and a couple of homes later, they settled into their current house nestled in the Country Club. “What I love most about our family is the constant laughtereveryone piles on Don! That’s why I post videos of him—you can’t make this stuff up!” Julie says with a smile. “He makes me laugh every day.” Don agrees: “We live in a home full of joy.”
Yet life feels different now. The house is quieter (though their spunky 10-year-old bulldog, Briggs, keeps them company) and they often find themselves reminiscing about the days when every room was filled with the energy of their kids. The beautiful chaos of a full house. The sports games, the laughter, the late-night chatter. The simple comfort of knowing that at the end of the day, they could walk down the hall and see their children safe and sound, tucked into bed.
“We only get 18 years to prepare our kids for the rest of their life—make every moment count.”
When the kids were little, Don and Julie were two steps ahead, guiding them and holding their hands. Through the school years, they stood behind them, cheering them on. Now? They walk beside them. “We still hold their hands when needed, but mostly, we just listen.”
If they could relive one day, it would be Christmas morning with little ones around the tree. “The joy, the ritual—monkey bread for breakfast, the fake pine tree smell, and the golf cart rides at 50 miles an hour. The kids loved that,” Don says, smiling at Julie. Some traditions still hold strong: “Putting
Bryce Sales & Marketing for Timeless, Boys Volleyball Coach for FEAR Club
Sophie Cocktail server at the Biltmore Resort
ornaments on the tree together and the handwritten cards we receive from the kids—that’ll always be ours.”
Their guiding principle is simple: faith and kindness. “Love others and treat people the way you want to be treated. Be kind - always,” Julie says. They hope to pass that spirit down to future generations, along with the courage to show up through thick and thin. “Keep your word, be honest, do the right thing—and own it when you mess up,” she says. “Don’s a man of his word, humble, patient, always showing up.”
They admit they’re pleasantly surprised by how much they enjoy this current chapter. “We really still like each other!” Julie laughs. “Marry your best friend—at the end of the day, that’s who you’ll have.” Their days now, begin with a prayer and gratitude practice, a bike ride, and a walk—their dedication to health and wellness echoing through the years.
Looking ahead, Don and Julie look forward to building deeper friendships with their adult kids, welcoming grandkids, and watching them build their own families. “The hardest part has been transitioning from parent to friend - you want to be part of their lives but not run them. It’s a blessing, though. You never stop being a parent - you just talk less to them and talk more to God” Don says with a smile.
Their advice for other parents stepping into the empty nest season is heartfelt: “Don’t get too wrapped up in their choices—step back, let them fail, but always be there for them. Let them know they can always come home. That’s unconditional love.”
So, what’s the secret to keeping their bond strong? “Be best friends. Keep laughing. Show
up for each other every day,” Julie says. They’re proudest of the love and honesty that bind their family together. “There’s no blueprint,” Don adds. “Until you have kids, you don’t realize what your parents did for you. We’re all just figuring it out. You just keep showing up— and keep making memories.”
COVER STORY — Ewa Rusenovich
Do you know A NEIGHBOR WHO HAS A STORY TO SHARE?
Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at srusenovich@bestversionmedia.com.
The Anthem Rotary Club believes strong communities are built by showing up and giving back.
Recently voted 2025 Best Non-Profit by The Foothills Focus, Anthem Rotary raises money that goes right back into causes that matter here at home - supporting at-risk youth, local families, and neighbors in need.
Each year, Rotary plans a budget to give generously while setting aside a little extra for unexpected needs that arise. It’s all about raising funds, building connections, and making Anthem stronger together.
Want to see what’s next and get involved? Join us and help keep the good going. Follow the Anthem Rotary Club on Facebook at www.facebook.com/anthemrotary
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT — Ewa Rusenovich
Rusty’s Angels Sanctuary:
Cares for senior dogs (10+)
Shop & Support: Rusty’s Resale Boutique 42407 N Vision Way #107, Anthem. Open Tues–Sat, 9–5.
How to Adopt or Support: Visit the website at www.rustysangelssanctuary.org
ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT | TEDDY & COOPER!
We’re a sweet bonded pair, both around 12 years old. Teddy’s always ready for fun, while Cooper is shy until it’s time for walkies — then he’s all happy barks! Cooper will need allergy meds for life. We’re looking for a loving forever home together!
Anthem Pets Animal Rescue:
Saving lives since 2005 with the love and support of donors, volunteers and foster heroes
How to Adopt, Foster or Support: visit the website at www.anthempets.org
ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT | CHARLIE!
Charlie is a 10-month-old, female, black and white husky. This girl was found wandering by a nice person who agreed to foster her. She did not have a collar or microchip when found. This beautiful pup is on the small side at about 36 lbs. and has one blue and one brown eye. In her foster home she has been exposed to kids and dogs and is doing well with both. She is also house trained.
PET CORNER — Sam Rusenovich
Water Wisdom & Family Roots
North Valley Water Solutions Keeps It Local and Personal
In the heart of Anthem, Arizona, there’s a family-owned business transforming the way locals think about water: North
Valley Water Solutions
As Dave Newham steps into his new role as President of the Anthem Rotary Club, he reflects on the path that led him here - a journey shaped by bold decisions, community involvement, and a passion for service.
Dave Newham was just twenty-one when he answered a blind ad to sell water treatment systems. That leap of faith launched a lifelong career. In 2011, after purchasing Rayne of the North Valley, Dave rebranded it as North Valley Water Solutions and planted roots in Anthem—committed to serving his community with both technical expertise and a deep sense of integrity.
Originally from the Midwest - “I moved to Arizona in 2008 for the nice weather and the terrible water,” Dave laughs.
Now, with more than 40 years of hands-on industry experience, Dave leads North Valley Water Solutions with a refreshing approach: real solutions, no gimmicks. “Experience can’t be taught, it has to be lived,” he says. Dave has certainly lived it, building a company that prioritizes trust, quality, and community over sales quotas.
Tailored Solutions, Without the Gimmicks
North Valley Water Solutions offers a wide array of systems to fit any home or budget. Whether it’s a traditional water softener, a no-salt alternative, a high-efficiency filter, or an eco-friendly exchange tank, the goal remains the same: clean water without unnecessary complexity or waste.
But what truly sets the company apart is its people-first philosophy. There are no membership fees, no tricky maintenance contracts, and no upselling games. Every customer receives the same high-quality equipment, honest advice, and exceptional service—every single time.
A Family Business, in Every Sense
Dave runs the company alongside his wife and business partner, Marge Newham. Their hands-on, down-to-earth leadership creates a sense of trust and accountability that’s increasingly rare in today’s automated, impersonal service world. At the heart of operations is Alysha—“the voice we all know and love”—who keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. “We rely on Alysha running the show, and the guys doing their job,” Dave says. It’s a simple formula, but one that works.
“This isn’t just business, it’s family,” Dave shares with a smile. His son Ethan is a dedicated nurse practitioner in Virginia, where he lives with his family. His daughter Sagan teaches art at a university in Oregon and his youngest son, Alexander, serves as a Major in the U.S. Marines. But ask Dave about his proudest title, and he doesn’t hesitate: “Being called ‘Grandpa Dave’ that’s the greatest joy in my life.”
Dave is also a “Bonus Dad” to Jonathan and Bobby. In 2022, Dave teamed up with Bobby and his wife Rebecca to launch North Valley Cart Care, further expanding the family’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Investing in Community
Beyond his business endeavors, Dave Newham is a dedicated community leader.
He has served as Chairman of ACTS (Anthem Community Team Support) for the past decade and with his new role as President of the Anthem Rotary Club, he aims to grow membership and deepen community engagement. Dave also served as President of the Anthem Chamber of Commerce from 2016 to 2018, and his company, North Valley Water Solutions, was honored as Anthem Chamber Business of the Year in both 2012 and 2022.
In a world increasingly dominated by big-box companies and automated service, North Valley Water Solutions offers something
different: authentic experience, personalized care, and people who treat your home like their own.
Loyalty. Honesty. Integrity. That’s what drives them. For water done right—and done with heart—North Valley Water Solutions is the name the community can count on.
Homeland Brew Co. is more than just a taproom—it’s a passion project five years in the making, born from our love of craft beer, community, and service.
Founded by my husband Mike and I, Homeland is a place where everyone feels welcome—from beer lovers and wine sippers to families and furry friends. We’re proud to be Arizona’s most family-friendly taproom.
From our signature house beers to rotating guest taps featuring the best local and regional craft brews, every pour highlights quality, creativity, and flavor. Our thoughtfully stocked bottle shop offers great to-go options as well! Delicious food trucks and tasty snacks round out the experience, creating a casual, inviting atmosphere for all.
RESIDENT
Our cornerstone is simple but powerful: “Beer is where your home is.” Our mission is to pour craft-inspired ales that bring people together and reflect the values we cherish.
At our core, we’re committed to giving back. Inspired by the selfless service of veterans, military, and first responders, Homeland is our platform for gratitude and community support.
Our dream is to become Anthem’s goto gathering space—where stories are shared, glasses are raised, and the spirit of togetherness thrives. We can’t wait to welcome you on your next visit.
Cheers, JJ
SUBMITTED ARTICLE — JJ & Mike Bielawski
Photos by Ashley Hathaway Photography
PHOTO BY CARRIE & TIM ELLISON
COPPER STATE HOT DOGS, SERVED AT HOMELAND BREW CO.
