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The Scottsdale Senior Center Scoop
Spotlight on: CarLife &
Pic of the Litter
LocaL HoLiday
WINTER 2012
Gift Guide
9000 East San Victor Drive,
Scottsdale, Arizona 85258 Two blocks South of Shea Blvd. off of 90th St., one block East on San Victor
(480) 661-1212 | www.TuscanyAZ.com
Happy Holidays from Our Home to Yours
An Exceptional Senior Living Rental Community
Why McCormick RanchFamilies Choose
Eric Fellows7975 N. Hayden Rd. Scottsdale, AZ [email protected](480) 406-5883
Families Choose The Fellows Team!
Market Expertise – The Fellows Team Live and Work in McCormick Ranch
Convenient Office Location – Private Office at Hayden & Via De Ventura
Buyers Love to Search for Homes atwww.MCRHomeSearch.com
Conten
ts
Local Holiday Gift Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
The Scottsdale Senior Center Scoop . . . . . . .17
4 WINTER 2012
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle is published quarterly by eClaire Publishing, LLC, 7349 N. Via Paseo Del Sur, Suite 515-268 Scottsdale, AZ 85258. Phone 480 212-6203. Fax 480 699-2049. Not responsible for unsolicited materials. Not affiliated with the McCormick Ranch Property Owners Association, nor does the publisher endorse the advertisers included. This publication is sent to each household on the McCormick Ranch. If you do not live on the McCormick Ranch or would like a separate copy mailed to you, an annual subscription fee of $12 is requested.
In EvEry IssuE:Market Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Four Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Local Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
LocaL BusInEss HIgHLIgHts:Pic of the Litter Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8CARLIFE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
FEaturEs:
12
11
18
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 5
Letter from the
editorGreetings,
In the past few months, McCormick Ranch has gained two notable new neighbors: The Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce and the Scottsdale Health-care headquarters . It’s nice to see businesses starting to bounce back and it’s no wonder they’ve chosen our beautiful, central location .
If you’ve been a reader of McCormick Ranch Lifestyle for some time, then you know how important I believe the support of locally owned business is . In an effort to promote local shops, I have compiled our first gift guide as the focus of this issue! I hope you will take the time to visit at least one of these stores during the holidays . You will not only be giving wonderfully unique gifts to your loved ones, but meeting local business owners who are putting money right back into the Arizona economy!
This issue also features some great photos of residents . I hope you’ll con-sider sharing some of your event photos with us . Maybe it’s a family reunion, your unique backyard, or enjoying a boat ride on one of our lakes . We’d love to see you in print!
Wishing you a very happy holiday season,
Alexandra Duemer alexandra@mcrlife .com
6 WINTER 2012
The average home sale prices in McCormick Ranch fell a little bit in the last 3 months compared the fall issue of “McCormick Ranch Lifestyle” but we’re still up $16 per square foot from this time last year and the general trend for McCormick Ranch home prices in 2012 is still up .
Normal sales (which excludes short sales and previously foreclosed, bank-owned sales) of single family homes in McCormick Ranch over the last 3 months had an average sale price of $178 per square foot . In 2011 that price was $162 per square foot . So if you own a 2,000 square foot home in McCormick Ranch, its value is up by about $32,000 compared to last year .
That price is down $4 per square foot from the last issue of “McCormick Ranch Lifestyle” but I don’t think prices are really falling . Home prices tend to bounce around a bit from month to month and a lot depends on how you slice the data . For example, if we look at quarterly data, we actually see a big increase in the average McCormick Ranch home price in the 3rd quarter (Jul-Sep) of 2012 compared to the 2nd quarter (Apr-Jun) of 2012 ($178/SF vs . $168/SF) .
Anyway you slice it, McCormick Ranch home prices are way up compared to 2011 . Right now the average price for normal sales of single family homes in McCormick Ranch is up 10% compared to the same time in 2011 .
currEnt rEaL EstatE MarkEt Okay, let’s look at the current real estate market in
McCormick Ranch . Right now there are 46 single family detached homes listed for sale in McCormick Ranch . Of those listings, 2 are short sales and none (!) are bank owned .
In the last 3 months, 44 listings have sold in McCormick Ranch or about 15 homes per month . Given that we have 46 listings, that means we have the equivalent of a 3-month supply of homes for sale in McCormick Ranch . A 3-month supply is less than “normal .” That is, we have a tight supply of homes listed for sale in McCormick Ranch right now and that’s good for home sellers .
Of the 44 homes that sold in the last 3 months, 8 were short sales and 2 were bank owned . That means “only” 23 percent of the homes sold in McCormick Ranch in the last 3 months were distressed sales . For calendar year 2011, 38 percent of homes sold in McCormick Ranch were distressed sales . That reduction from 38 percent distressed sales last year to 23 percent distressed now goes a long way in explaining why home prices have increased so much in 2012 .
by John Wake
Real EstateA Real View on
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 7
Distressed properties (short sales and bank-owned homes) have been selling for about $25 per square foot less than normal sales . That’s a lot of money! Sure, homes sold in distressed sales are sometimes in poor condition but even taking into account their condition distressed sales are usually sold below market price and that puts a lot of downward pressure on prices for non-distressed homes .
Now, with relatively fewer distressed sales, the influence of distressed sales on normal sales (although still large) has been reduced and that reduction has allowed normal, non-distressed home prices to bounce up significantly this year .
As the number of distressed sales continues to fall – and I expect them to continue to fall – the prices of normal sales will continue to rise . I expect the average price of single family homes in McCormick Ranch to increase $10 to $15 per square foot next year but, of course, no one knows what the future holds .
WHEn Is tHE BEst tIME to DoWnsIzE?If you’re thinking of selling your McCormick Ranch home
and downsizing in the area, it doesn’t really matter when you sell and buy . Your McCormick Ranch home will likely be worth more in a year but the house you want to buy will likely cost you more in a year as well so it’s a wash .
Compared to a few years ago, you’ll find it much easier to sell your McCormick Ranch home but on the other hand you’ll find it much harder to find a home you want to buy at a price you like .
In 2009, the odds of successfully selling a McCormick Ranch home was only 32 percent! That is, of the 403 single family homes listed for sale in 2009 only 129 homes actually sold in 2009 . Your odds of selling your McCormick Ranch home are almost double that now but, unfortunately, your selection of homes to choose from when buying a replacement home is much worse now . In 2009, you would have had about twice the selection of homes to choose from in McCormick Ranch . It’s always something!
concLusIonsHome prices are up about 10% from last year . The supply
of homes for sale is tight right now . Home prices are expected to increase next year . There’s no better place to watch the McCormick Ranch real estate market than here at “McCormick Ranch Lifestyle”!
John Wake has lived in McCormick Ranch since 1998 and is an Associate Broker with HomeSmart Real Estate. John was born and raised in Phoenix, and lived in Florida, Washington D.C. and Paris before returning to Arizona to raise a family. His wife Liz is from Iowa and works at ASU. His two sons, John and Chris, graduated from Saguaro High School and both attended the Barrett Honors College at ASU.
7704iE.iDoubletreeiRanchiRoadiScottsdaleiAZi85258iiLunchiiiiiiiiiiiiiiHappyiHouriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiDinner
iiiiiiii480-659-4139i/iwww.LPDIR.comi
Presentwthiswadwforw10%woffwthruw12/31/12-wOnewdiscountwperwtable-wDiscountwincludeswfoodwandwbeverage-wUnlimitedwuseswwithwsamewad!
8 WINTER 2012
McCormick Ranch resident Tom Pierre owns Pic of the Litter Photography, a three-year-old business specializing in onsite pet photography .
“We designed our business around the pet, so our goal is not to pose the animal but rather allow them to be themselves — whether that is lying in the sun or playing in the pool,” says Tom, who’s lived in the community for almost three years with his wife of 17 years, Dena, their two rescued dogs, Darby, a five-year-old border collie/Australian shepherd mix, and Tony, a two-year-old Shar-pei/hound mix, and some fish.
“By allowing the client to select the location, not only do we find that the animal’s true personality comes out, but many times the client selects the area because it has meaning to them . Perhaps it is a place where their dog likes to go and play or perhaps it is a favorite area in the house where the cat likes to watch birds .”
Some of the areas he’s located shoots are Lake Pleasant, downtown among the larger buildings, dog parks, backyard pools, South Mountain Park, Papago Park, the Civic Center and Wesley Bolin Memorial Park in downtown Phoenix .
“I work hard to catch those precious human-animal bond moments that may never happen again: smiles, grins, and even adoration in the pet’s facial expression and eyes . I take my time and have infinite patience so the camera will ‘see’ your pet’s beauty, grace, power and whimsy,”
says Tom, a Cleveland, native who has loved animals since he was a child — his first dog was Snoopy — and earned a bachelor’s in Wildlife Management at The Ohio State Univer-sity .
With the help of the Arizona Animal Welfare League, he and Dena saved their former dog, Molly, from euthanasia . “For 12 years Molly taught me ‘dog’ language and how to be observant and anticipate what animals do — being able to anticipate what is coming next,” he says .
Tom’s passion for animals continued during college, photo-graphing, exercising and socializing dogs for local shelters . He is a trained Emergency Animal Medical Technician and serves on the Best Friends Disaster Recovery Team and volunteers with the Arizona Animal Welfare League and Safe Haven for Animals . He rescues dogs as well with AAWL and is an advocate for shelter animals, promoting adoption as the first choice. Ten percent of the company profits go to the local animal rescue community .
His services include photographing and processing the photos . Once a session is over, each photo is reviewed and processed on his computer, then Tom provides color, black-and-white or sepia photos to clients via his website . Pic of the Litter also offers traditional prints, canvas, prints on metal, T-shirts and mouse pads .
For Fido and Fifi, Tom Pierre is picture perfect.
480 244-1842
Pic of the Litter PhotograPhy Local Business Highlight
CarLifeAutoCare.com 480.270.5930 [email protected]
FREE Chick-fil-A Mealwith Oil Change
get a coupon redeemable at Chick-fil-A on Raintree Dr.
Chick-fil-ASalt River FieldsThe Pavilions at Talking StickCARLIFE
Raintree Dr.
E. Indian Bend Rd.
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completed between services
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ROUTINE SERVICE TO MAJOR REPAIRS
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Great Prices Great Service Great Value
Pic of the Litter PhotograPhy
10 WINTER 2012
THINGS YOUR
BURGLARWON’T TELL YOU:
Of course I look familiar . I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, paint-ing your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator .
Sometimes, I carry a clipboard . Some-times, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake . I do my best to never, ever look like a crook .
Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week . While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier .
Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway, and I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it .
If decorative glass is part of your front
entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set . That makes it too easy .
A good security company alarms the window over the sink and the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom - and your jewelry . It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too .
I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters . (Don't take me up on it .)
Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medi-cine cabinet .
Here's a helpful hint: I almost never
go into kids' rooms . You're right: I won't have enough time
to break into that safe where you keep your valuables, but if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me .
A loud TV or radio can be a better deter-rent than the best alarm system . If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television .
The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors .
I love looking in your windows . I'm look-ing for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like . I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets .
To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air . To me, it's an invitation .
Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Or-egon , California , and Kentucky ; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs http://www.crimedoctor.com// and Richard T. Wright, a criminology profes-sor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 11
Four-legged Ranchers
“Lucy is a 6 year old Ameri-can Foxhound and we adopted her 3 years ago from Friends of Homeless Animals (FOHA) in Virginia . The Foxhound was first bred by George Washington and they are the official state dog of Virginia. She loves to lay in the sun and sleep - A LOT! She loves to go on walks, but isn't an "en-durance walker" . She decides when she has had enough and will lay down on someone's lawn to take a rest before mov-ing on .” – M . Arena
“Moose is a 6 year old puggle (pug beagle mix) . He LOVES LOVES LOVES kids and wags his whole body when he sees a youngster . He loves to chase a ball and will do so until your arm falls off . He drops it on my feet all evening, every evening, until I comply . And if I don’t, he drops it on Bubbs, my cat . We often hike Camelback Mountain before dawn (he even has his own headlamp) .” – P . Ullman
Send us a picture of your pet!Please email [email protected]
12 WINTER 2012
Urbankidz480 483-6800 / urbankidzwear.com / 8787 N. Scottsdale Rd.Voted Best Children’s Clothing store for several years running! UrbanKidz, located in the SHOPS at Gainey Village, offers stylish threads and accessories for boys and girls. They also carry some of the Today Show’s hot toy picks, like Glitter Too’s ($16.50) and Green Science Mechanical kits ($15.99).
Pilates Corps Inc. 480 998-1485 / pilatescorps.com / 8880 E. Via Linda (near Fry’s Marketplace)Pilates Corps is a fully-equipped studio specializing in the authentic method of Pilates. All instructors are highly trained and pay attention to the individual needs of your body. Mat work is the heart and soul of the method developed by Joseph Pilates. Buy a package of 10 Group Mat Classes for only $100 (half off the normal price)! Improve your mind, body & spirit!
Olos Euro Day Spa602.317.8107 / olosspa.com / 7110 E. McDonald Drive, Suite C2 Custom “large” herbal bath soaks presented in muslin-like tea bags. They are $3 each or $15 for four in a mason jar. They can be custom blended or come in pre-made favorites like peppermint milk blends or lavender rose petal blends.
Gift Guide
With so many choices on where to spend your money
on gifts this season, here are some privately owned
retailers in our neighborhood offering some
wonderful, unique gift ideas. Be sure to mention
that you are a McCormick Ranch Lifestyle reader!
Local Holiday
Spruce Goose Jewelry480 319-0771 / sprucegoosejewelry.com / 9689 N. Hayden Rd. (in the Salon Boutique building) Featuring the latest designer-inspired fashions from designers suchas David Yurman, Marco Bicego, Ippolitta, Alexis Bittar, Roberto Coin, and many others! We also carry an extensive line of Sterling Silver and CZ jewelry that rivals fine jewelry in style and appearance. Our prices range from just $10 to $55! Hours are Tuesday - Friday, 10-5:30 and Saturday 10-4:00. Please mention this feature to receive a 10% discount!
Simply Sweets Cake Studio & Sweet Shoppe480 307-6461/ simplysweets.com/ 9393 N 90th Street, Suite #115Specializing in unique treat creations and cake decorating classes! Gift certificates available.Preorder our Mini Cupcake Gift Box(2 dozen for $36) or Holiday Candy Kabobs($4 each, design may vary)
Carrie Curran Art Studio480 478-8121/ carriecurranart.com / 10636 N. 71st WayHave fun and be creative in a BYOB Van Gogh Vino painting class of your choice. These are three-hour classes with step-by-step instruction from a local artist. All supplies are included and you leave with a completed 16x20 inch canvas masterpiece for just $30! Gift certificates available. Scottsdale Plaza Resort
480 951-5170 / scottsdaleplaza.com / 7200 N. Scottsdale Rd.This holiday season, give the gift of year long pampering with The Scottsdale Plaza Resort’s Plaza Pampered Club. Become a member of this locally owned resort and club and enjoy luxury accommodations, dining benefits, fitness and spa treatments as well as pool access! Individual and Family memberships now available.
Experience it all first hand at our Open House Event December 6, 2012 from 4pm – 7pm. This complimentary event is open to the public, RSVP encouraged.
Special THANKS to our loyal advertisers who make this magazine possible.Here’s to a wonderful 2013 ahead!
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 13
14 WINTER 2012
Life on the Ranch
1. The Bender’s 16th Annual Neighborhood Scarecrow Party!! Over 150 wonderful neighbors enjoyed the fun.
Recently, McCormick Ranch turned 40 and hosted an An-niversary Open House!
The event was a huge success, with over 500 Ranchers stopping by to share in the history. Many people shared their own first memories of McCormick Ranch, enjoyed a slice of celebratory cake, read the historical timeline that spanned from the early 1940's to today with numerous pictures, and listened attentively as Mayor Lane delivered a proclamation and ap-pointed September 21, 2012 , "McCormick Ranch Day"!
2. Each Rancher who attended left with a special McCor-mick Ranch "Swag Bag" filled with goodies of all kinds from around the Ranch and a commemorative DVD highlighting milestones and stories unique to the Ranch.
3. Every Sunday afternoon, Dan and Emily host ‘Woofs ‘n Wine’ – an off-leash get together in Las Palomas. They just released their first children’s book, It’s a King’s Life at the Cy-press Inn. Here she is with the stars Happy, Lady and – their new baby Lucy.
Pictorial1
2
3
1
2
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steaks
sports
spirits
wings
burgers
ribstavern grilles c o t t s d a l e
*specials subject to change
dailYSPECIALS VISIT US ON FACEBOOK FOLLOW US ON TWITTER
8880 East Via Linda / Scottsdale, Arizona 85258Northwest Corner of 90th Street and Via Linda in the Fry’s Marketplace Plaza
(T) 480.614.5254taverngrillescottsdale.com
luncHDINNER7 DAYS A WEEK
16 WINTER 2012
Winter here is very different from winter in most other places in the USA. We are able to enjoy spending a lot of time outdoors, when most of the rest of the USA is huddling inside trying to stay warm! We thus would like our gardens to look nice and colourful throughout the winter months. It is often difficult to know what type of plants to choose that will pro-duce good colour in the garden at this time of year. Below are 10 good plants that grow well here, all are low maintenance shrubs and/or perennials (ie grow year after year). They are mostly low water use and desert adapted. The best time to plant all of these is in the Fall and Winter.1. Bush Dalea – Dalea pulchra – hardy
shrub 4x5’ Grows in all light conditions. Purple blooms.2. Fairy Duster – Calliandra californica – shrub 4x4’ Full sun.
Red puff ball flowers. Attracts hummingbirds.3. Desert lavender – Hyptis emori. – shrub 6x4’. Full sun. Fra-
grant foliage. Attracts hummingbirds.4. lilac vine – Hardenbergia compotonia. Vine. Partial shade.
Moderate water * Needs a trellis to climb. Purple flowers in late winter.
5. White Plumbago – Plumbago scadens. Shrub/vine. 3x3’. Shade or partial shade. Moderate water * White flowers
6. trailing Gazania – gazania rigens – Perennial. Groundcover. 8x18”. Can take full sun but does better with afternoon shade. Yellow flowers. Will die out in summer if overwatered.7. Firecracker Penstemon – Penstemon ea-tonii. Perennial, native wildflower. 3x3”. Sun to part shade. Scarlet spikes of flowers. Leave seed heads on until completely brown, to al-low plant to reseed. Attracts hummingbirds.8. Desert Marigold – Baileya multiradiata. Desert Marigold. Perennial, native wildflower. 1x1’Full sun, generally survives on rainfall alone. Can be short lived but reseeds very
easily. Dead head to ensure continual blooming. Yellow daisy like flowers.
9. Golden Barrel cactus – Echinocactus grusonii. Large round succulent 3x3’. While it does not require any water in the win-ter, it does require water at least every 2 weeks in the summer. Golden spines catch the early and late evening sun making a very attractive addition to the landscape. Needs afternoon shade in the summer if possible. More attractive in groups.
Winter Desert Gardeningby Carol StuttardGardening Specialist and Master Gardener
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 17
What differentiates the Granite reef Senior center from other valley senior centers?
Our mission was to create a senior campus that would provide a network of localized services that allow seniors to live, play and access services close to home. McDowell Village, a senior housing apart-
ment complex located on the property adjacent to the Senior Center, provides 224 units of senior living just steps from our building. Residents are able to access the center through a landscaped courtyard for activities like bingo, table tennis, discussion groups, special events and much more.
The Granite Reef Senior Center serves as the replacement center for the city’s original senior center in downtown Scott-sdale. During the planning of our new center, staff knew it would be important to connect the downtown area, where many seniors had taken root to be close to the senior center, hospital, doctors and vibrant downtown amenities like restaurants, shops and public services. Scottsdale Senior Services staff were integral in the develop-ment of the Neighborhood Trolley, a free trolley service that connects the Granite Reef Senior Center with the downtown area and a wide variety of attractions like Scottsdale Center for the Arts, the Civic Center Library, Scottsdale Fashion Square and the Civic Center Mall. The Scottsdale Trolley connects with both Tempe’s trolley system and the Light Rail, connecting local residents to the entire valley.
can you describe some of the differ-ent programs offered within the center?
Over 50 recreation classes provide local seniors with an opportunity to learn Spanish, write poetry and find inner peace
through Yoga and Tai Chi. Our classes, offered through the Parks & Recreation Department, are one of the most popular services offered at the center. In addi-tion to receiving top level instruction, participants develop meaningful relation-ships with peers and staff. Classes are very affordable and provide something for
everyone. Watercolor, Senior Strength Training, Ballroom Dance, Aero-bics, Sewing, Pilates, Computers… the list goes on and on.
Our fitness center has evolved into one of the most utilized amenities at Granite Reef. The fitness center offers state of the art cardiovascular and strength training equipment appropriate for the aging population.
With quarterly membership rates only $40 for Scottsdale residents, the fitness center provides a great bang for your buck. Ad-ditionally, the environment provides our citizens with a comfortable, pressure free atmosphere to maintain healthy lifestyles.
Countless other recreation programs like licensed bingo, live dances, badminton, table tennis and our hiking and walking clubs provide something for every ability level and interest.
is the Granite reef Senior center the only se-nior center in Scottsdale?
The Via Linda Senior Center, located on 104th Street and Via Linda, is the City of Scottsdale’s north-ern full-service senior cen-ter. Via Linda offers many of the same services and programs as Granite Reef. They have a phenomenal staff, special events, recreation programs and a host of other activities.
Do you have to be a senior to access these facilities and programs?
No! While the majority of the pro-grams and activities offered at the city’s senior centers are geared to adults ages 50 plus, there are a number of opportuni-ties available that you might not expect to
find. The senior centers are available for private rentals and are amazing buildings for homeowners’ association meetings, business conventions, birthday parties, baby showers and other private events. We have very affordable rates and our build-ings offer terrific amenities. Over the past five years the Granite Reef Senior Center has evolved into a valley favorite as a rental facility. The center is conveniently located just blocks from the freeway, with easy ac-cess from Tempe, Mesa, Phoenix and Sky Harbor Airport.
How do the Scottsdale Senior cen-ters provide so many services, espe-cially in a down economy?
It’s really about partnerships. We have been very successful at bringing together a collection of community minded organi-zations that help us provide programs and services to Scottsdale’s senior community. The Scottsdale Cultural Council partners with the senior centers by providing pub-lic art programs and art opportunities for our city’s seniors. Scottsdale Center for the Arts provides their fantastic facility for a number of our special events, including the upcoming Entertainment Extrava-ganza. Both the Parks and Recreation Department and Scottsdale Public Library System provide great ongoing program-ming and activities.
For more information, contact us by phone at (480) 312-1700. Our staff love to give tours of our facility, so if you’re not familiar with the building or what we do, give us a call and setup a time to come see us. You can access our website at www.ScottsdaleAZ.Gov/Seniors for our ad-dress, upcoming programs and additional information.
The Senior Center Scoop
18 WINTER 2012
Locally owned and operated, CARLIfe opened its second loca-tion at The Pavilions in July. Manager Eddie Mrock, moved to Phoe-nix from Memphis, Tennessee in 2009. Don’t let his Southern drawl fool you, Mrok and his partners strategically picked the Valley of the Sun due to the population density and miles driven here. They felt it was the perfect place to launch their new standard in car service in an industry where it’s easy to be better than the next guy.
Their motto is: You have a life, our job is to get you there. It starts from the moment a new client walks in the door. Mrok says, “The people behind the counter know how to listen and communicate. One of my guys was an executive chef, another was in the golf business… we know how to focus on the customer.” And it doesn’t stop behind the scenes. “We recruit highly recommended technicians with 20+ years of experience to be our lead technician.”
Instead of using a 30,000 mile checklist, they pre-fer a needs analysis. “If your car needs something, we’re going to talk about it and if it doesn’t, we won’t. We use good common sense rather that just what the computer says.” Mrok goes on to explain that most customers will save 10-15% over the life of their car by doing what they need when they re-ally need it.
Surprisingly, the average car on the road nowa-
days is 10-years old. CarLife is experienced with everything from Yugo’s to Bentley’s. They have access to every tool and manual needed. “If someone is concerned about whether their car
will last another 5 years, call us. Both of my cars have over 150,000 miles and still drive new,” says Mrok.
Confident in their high level of service and expertise, Mrok says, “If we mess up, we fess up. Given the chance, we’ll go out of our way to fix the issue. We want people to leave here saying, ‘Wow, I’m impressed!’ I’ve never believed that nearly enough is good enough.”
CARLIfe is clean, conscientious and well staffed. Mrok says, “We hear from clients all the time ‘We’re glad you’re here.’ Maybe it’s Southern hospitality, but they find our consultative approach refreshing. Finding someone you can communicate with and count on is real peace of mind.”
How else is CARLIfe different? How about:Oil change service at cost (3 for $35), a 5-year
warranty on all batteries, Two-year warranty on all labor and parts, Free shuttle service, Free roadside assistance, Free WiFi, fresh coffee, plush seating, financing available.
Stop in to see for yourself how CARLIfe is breaking the automotive rules and making custom-ers happy!
CARLIfe 602 850-8300
carlifeautocare.com
20 WINTER 2012
By Britanny ChardinTales of the Cocktail is the week-long, annual event for which
top bartenders and mixologists flock together to talk, debate, network, learn, teach and (no point in not talking about the pink elephant in the room) drink themselves silly. It’s all very serious stuff; I assure you.
It is here that new trends and brands are debuted. Take for example, the seminar on making your own vermouth. You might think this has nothing to do with the Martini you had last night at dinner. But, wait for it; it will.
Over the course of the next year, bartenders across the coun-try will be crafting their own house-made vermouths, adding in their own regional or signature blends of herbs and spices. Do not be surprised therefore, when you next order your gin martini, straight-up and with a twist, if you are asked which, from a selec-tion of vermouths including their own, is your pleasure.
I attended countless seminars, events and tastings over the week; not exactly sobering work. But I kept good notes. Check out the below for what I think will soon trickle down to cocktail lists or your local liquor store over the coming months. Whether you are a casual drinker, novice bartender or a cocktail enthusiast,
TrendsCocktail don’t be afraid to dress up your drink a little with some of these.
Who knows, you might just be a trend-setter.rye: The spicier, leaner and dryer older brother of Bourbon
is enjoying a huge comeback. Try your Manhattan the way it was truly intended with Rittenhouse, Bulleit, Templeton, Whistlepig or Thomas H. Handy to name a few tasty brands.
Mezcal: It has been said that you don’t find Mezcal, Mezcal finds you. However, I recommend you seek out some Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal the next time you want to cross the border with your cocktail. These rich, sweet and smoky, 100% certified organic, single village mezcals are handcrafted in the remote vil-lages of Oaxaca, Mexico. There are other producers, but go ahead and start with the 2011 Distiller of the year, Del Maguey.
cocktail Bitters: The craft cocktail revival has not just brought us spirits but cocktail ingredients as well. A growing list of bitters producers are creating new flavors and flavor combina-tions like Cherry Vanilla Bark, Jamaican Jerk, Black Walnut and Memphis BBQ. Adding just a few drops to even the most simple cocktail add layers of flavor and complexity that will make you feel like a mixologist. Any good liquor store has at least 8-10 dif-ferent brands, and bartenders are lining the bar rail with numerous bottles of house made bitters and tinctures. Making your own is not too hard, and very rewarding.
Shrubs: Drinking vinegars added to water or soda water as a refreshing summer quaff have been around since Colonial times. Recently they found their way into cocktails. As they can be made from any fruit, berry or aromatic with vinegar and sugar added, shrubs are more complex than other acids like lemon and lime juice. They add a unique, sweet-tart element to cocktails or spar-kling wine. Check out Shrubandco.com for more info.
• 1/4 cup extra virgin oil, plus 3 tablespoons • 1 medium onion, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, minced• 1/2 bunch fresh basil leaves • 2 (28-ounce) cans whole peeled tomatoes, drained and hand-crushed • Pinch sugar • Pinch red pepper flakes• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 4 skinless, boneless, chicken breast about 1 1/2 pounds) • 1/2 cup all purpose flour• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten • 1 tablespoon water • 1 cup dried plain bread crumbs• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus extra for sprinkling• 1/2 cup chopped parsley• 2 teaspoons garlic powder• 1 (8-ounce) ball fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced• 1 Italian Baguette
DirectionsPreheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Coat a sauté pan with olive oil and place over medium heat. When the oil gets hazy, add the onions, garlic, and cook and stir for 5 minutes until fragrant and soft then add some hand-torn basil, reserve the rest of the basil for finishing the chicken. Care-fully add the tomatoes , cook and stir until the liquid is cooked down and the sauce is thick, about 15 minutes; season with sugar,red pepper flakes , salt and pepper. Lower the heat, cover, and keep warm.
Get the ingredients together for the chicken so you have a little assembly line. Put the flour in a shallow platter and season with a fair amount of salt and pepper; mix with a fork to distrib-ute evenly. In a wide bowl, combine the eggs and water, beat until frothy. Put the bread crumbs on a plate, add the 1 cup parmesan, chopped parsley, and garlic powder Season with salt and pepper and stir with a fork until thoroughly combined.
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high flame in a large oven-proof skillet. Lightly dredge both sides of the chicken cutlets in the seasoned flour, and then dip them in the egg wash to coat completely, letting the excess drip off, then dredge in the bread crumbs. When the oil is nice and hot, add the cutlets and fry for 4 minutes on each side until golden and crusty, turning once.
Ladle the tomato-olive sauce over the chicken and arrange the mozzarella on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan, and remaining basil. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly. Serve on toasted baguette.
Resident RecipesSubmitted by The Cove Trattoria at Seville
Marketplace
chickenparmigiana
local EvEntS
By Jeanne alspaughDuring these tough economic times it
can be hard to find things to do with your family and friends that are inexpensive and sometimes even FREE.
We as a community can come together and support those in need this holiday season. All you need to do is give of your time. Sometimes the opportunities to help others are right in your own backyard. Make someone’s holiday brighter.
volunteer opportunities:Here are just a few opportunities that
are available in our community. If you are interested in any of the opportunities please contact those folks that are listed for each category. For more opportunities please go to the website for the complete list. www.scottsdaleaz.gov/volunteer
career centerLily Williams(480) 312-0063
The Career Center One Stop Shop provides job development services for par-ticipants of the Vista Paiute Job Prepara-tion Program. Volunteers help individuals on a walk-in basis, by providing assistance, which including the unemployed/unem-ployed, working poor and welfare recipi-ents. Volunteers also maintain statistics, prepare data entry updates and reports, provide career guidance, and assist with the use of computers.
operation Fix it: neighbors Helping neighborsMichelle Bruce(480) 312-8703
This program provides assistance to qualifying homeowners or tenants who are physically or financially unable to maintain their properties. Operation fix It teams volunteers and local businesses to provide labor and materials.
Food BankLily Williams (480) 312-0063
The Vista del Camino food bank is li-censed by Maricopa County Health Servic-es. The food bank serves individuals and families, who live in Scottsdale and who are having difficulty meeting their food needs. Volunteers accept and sort donations, make food boxes, and assist with daily operations of the Food Bank.
Paiute neighborhood centerPhil Hershkowitz (480) 312-7681
Paiute is always in need of volunteers for the following programs: After school program tutoring at the teen center. Senior Center desk coverage. Organizing the early childhood room. Seasonal Holiday Pro-gramming: Paiute Toy Program. Do you have any special talents that you are willing to share with any of our groups? Paiute strives to expose others to many different talents and cultures. Free EventsMccormick ranch Holiday Extrava-ganzaDecember 1st, 6-8pm(Across from The Chart House on McCor-mick Ranch Parkway)Join your neighbors for cocoa, carols, snow play and more!
Holiday Harmony tree lighting cer-emonyDecember 2, 2012 3:00-6:30pmScottsdale Civic Center Mall3939 N. Drinkwater Boulevard
Come celebrate the holidays At Scotts-dale’s Holiday Harmony. This family-friendly festival features a tree lighting, music and a special visitor from the North Pole. The fun also includes real snow – so bring your coats and mittens! The official Mayor’s tree-lighting ceremony takes place at 6:15 pm.
Holiday lights at Mccormick-Stillman Railroad ParkDecember 14th-January 5th, 20136:30-9:00 pm7301 e. Indian Bend Road
Free event. Train and carousel rides are $2 each. Children under three ride free with a paying adult.
All Aboard for Arizona’s most unique holiday event! Take a train ride through many festive holiday lights and displays turning the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park into a winter wonderland. Opening night (December 14th) festivities will begin at 6:30 and include a tree-lighting ceremo-ny, entertainment and a visit from Santa.
Santa will be at the park through Sun-day, Dec. 23. Holiday Lights runs 6:30 to 9 p.m. nightly Friday, Dec. 14 through Saturday, Jan. 5 (excluding Dec. 24, 25, and 31). For more information visit: www.therailroadpark.com.
arizona Sun circuit Horse Show January 26-February 3rd, 20138:00 AM - 7:00 PMWestworld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Road
Sponsored by the Arizona Quarter Horse Association. Come watch some of the finest Quarter Horses in the country trained in reining, working cow, cutting, and roping. Walk the barns, meet the riders. More than 100 vendors for your shopping pleasure. Don't miss it!
Downtown artWalkEvery Thursday 7:00- 9:00 PMMain Street and Marshall Way
Take a stroll along Main Street and Marshall Way to see what new and inspiring peices of art the galleries are displaying this week.
For more information: Contact The Scottsdale Gallery Association, www.scotts-dalegalleries.com
22 WINTER 2012
In Your Own
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M a r k e t p l a c e
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Selected MLS homes sold in McCormick Ranch, Oct. 1 - Nov. 2, 2011 brought to you by John Wake, Associate Broker, HomeSmart Real Estate
New 35-Point Marketing PlanCall to see how I would sell your home.
See Latest Homes Sold in McCormick Ranch at
McCormickRanchRealEstateHomes.com
$647,500 $525,000 $522,000 $435,000
SOLD
$428,900 $410,500 $380,000 $317,000
$312,000 $309,000 $305,000 $275,000
SOLDSOLD
SOLD
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$240,000 $240,000 $235,000 $415,000
SOLDSOLD
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8125 E APPALOOSA TRL4bd/2.5ba, 3100 sqft
8507 E SHETLAND TRL3bd/2.75ba, 2629 sqft – Owner/Agent
8332 E SAN RAMON DR4bd/3ba, 2500 sqft
8376 N VIA MIA ST4bd/3ba, 2714 sqft
8018 E VIA CAMPO3bd/2ba, 2632 sqft – Short Sale
9004 N 82ND ST4bd/2ba, 2784 sqft – Short Sale
8353 E VIA DE DORADO4bd/2ba, 2402 sqft – Owner/Agent
8506 E VIA DE SERENO4bd/2ba, 2529 sqft
8526 N 85TH ST3bd/2ba, 1902 sqft
7841 E VIA DE LA ENTRADA3bd/2.5ba, 2480 sqft
8413 E MUSTANG TRL3bd/2.5ba, 2437 sqft
8531 E VIA DE LOS LIBROS4bd/2ba, 2108 sqft – Short Sale
8368 E VIA DE BELLEZA4bd/2ba, 1984 sqft
10450 N 87TH PL2bd/2ba, 1596 sqft
8473 E SAN DANIEL DR3bd/2ba, 2310 sqft – Lender Owned
8334 E SAN SEBASTIAN DR4bd/3ba, 2405 sqft
McCormick_Ad_8.5x11_1111.indd 1 11/10/11 12:46 PM