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SUMMER 2014
Taliesin West
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Contents 8 24
Features:
The Vig to Open in June . . . . . . . . . . 16 Taliesin West Camp Experience . . . . . 20 Cicero Academy Countdown . . . . . . . 24
In Every Issue: Real Estate Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Four-Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Local Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Local Business HighlightS: Dottling’s Shell Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Altitude Coffee Lab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 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.
4
SUMMER 2014
Letter from the
Editor
Dear reader, If you’re like me, it feels like the New Year just started, and yet here we are getting a taste of the summer months ahead! Speaking of taste, I can’t wait to try The Vig after many months of anticipation. Be sure to read our feature about this community-minded and locally owned gastronomic success that has chosen to open its first Scottsdale location in our area. As I’m writing this, the school year is wrapping up among a flurry of activities and talk over the changes next year due to budget cuts. I think you’ll find of interest in this issue an article about the new charter school opening in The Pavilions. Treading lightly upon the political viewpoint, Effie Carlson, an area mom and business owner who is running for a seat in our district House of Representatives, shares some insight on the importance of voting. The summer is a time to unwind for many – or at least seek refuge from the unforgivable heat. It’s also a great time to enjoy all our Valley has to offer without crowds and at a discount. If you’ve never visited Frank Lloyd Wright’s home, this National Historic Landmark recently celebrated its 75th anniversary and resident tours June-August are half price. Simply purchase your tickets at zerve.com/taliesinwest and use code: AZRESIDENT. They offer a wonderful camp program that you can learn more about on page 16. If you have a story idea or something to share, please send me an email. I always enjoy hearing from my readers and appreciate your support. Until next time,
Alexandra Duemer alexandra@mcrlife.com
Connect with us
@MCRLife
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
5
Real Estate What a long, strange trip it’s been. In the past 12 months, the McCormick Ranch and Central Scottsdale market has gone from warm to blazing hot, straight to ice cold, and back to lukewarm. For this issue’s Real Estate Market Update, we think it’s appropriate to hit rewind and begin with a recap of the market’s latest roller coaster ride. 2Q / 3Q 2013: Pedal to the metal. Sharply upward trending prices. Inventory is at a significant low. Mortgage rates are floating lower. This all equals McCormick Ranch homes going off the market in record time. Homes in tip top shape are hitting $260-$265 per square foot, and we’re all experiencing the euphoria of recapturing a chunk of lost equity from 2008-2011. On the fence sellers, who believe the market is climbing for the foreseeable future, decide to wait until the New Year. This keeps inventory down and prices high. 4Q 2013: Break it up kids, party’s over. The US Government closes its doors for 16 days. This causes a lot of buyers to step back and take a breath. “Multiple offers? Tight inventory? Low rates? Honey, this sounds like 2006 to me.” They cool on the idea of getting caught up in a hot market, combined with more economic uncertainty. Even with recordlow inventory, lack of buyer activity put the brakes on our momentum and 2013 limps into the Holiday season. 1Q 2014: What a difference 90 days makes. A large, steady stream of new listings hits the MLS. Rates creep up a hair. Buyers lose confidence and stay on the sidelines (overall Valley sales down 17.3%, see stats below for Scottsdale^). Cash buyers (down 38.5% from 1Q 2013) can’t find deals, are waist-deep in Canadian snow, or are simply spooked. New housing starts drop and we quickly developed a supply and demand problem. On the Ranch, it takes more days to sell roughly the same number of homes, resulting in a decrease in the price per square foot (-5.7%), and a decrease in average sales price (-1.7%).* 6
SUMMER 2014
Where We Are Today Although we’ve seen significant year over year changes, let’s take a look at the positives (and there are plenty!). The market was on fire for the past two years, and it was ripe for a pause and correction. Inventory was terrible, now there are choices. Interest rates are still historically excellent and credit is loosening. Homes have a higher number of days on market and sellers are ready for offers. This is all great news for Buyers. The rate of new listings in the past 60 days is significantly down^*, and some sellers, presumably frustrated by the lack of activity, have cancelled and are off the market. This attrition is good for Sellers. If you are a seller, realize that buyers are being cautious and patient. Homes that are selling have similar traits – above average to premium lots, very good to excellent condition. Homes in need of fixing up, priced well, are always in demand. If your home is currently on the market, shine it up and stay the course. Think like a buyer. Look at your home objectively and make small, impactful changes or upgrades to give a buyer more reason to choose yours. New local businesses are thriving. Significant remodel activity continues. Distressed inventory is essentially gone. People are moving to Scottsdale from other parts of the country again. The key components that make McCormick Ranch the best place to live in Scottsdale are as strong as ever. With good inventory, great rates, & motivated sellers, we now have a market ripe for deal making beneficial to both parties. The end of the school year should kick the Spring Buying Season into gear. We’re getting past the latest hiccup - a great home & coveted lifestyle for your friends or family is waiting in McCormick Ranch. Gene Montemore & Gary May (owner/broker) operate the Central Scottsdale Real Estate Group at Real Living Success Realty. RLS is a marketing-focused brokerage located in the heart of McCormick Ranch and an affiliate of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Gene & Gary can be reached at info@CentralScottsdale.com or 480-295-4550.
By Gene Montemore & Gary May
Number of single-family closings in MCR:
November 1, 2013 – January 31, 2014 (61 days): 42 February 1, 2014 – April 30, 2014 (89 days): 41 Average sales price: November 1, 2013 – January 31, 2014: $491,914 February 1, 2014 – April 30, 2014: $483,366 Average price per square foot: November 1, 2013 – January 31, 2014: $211 February 1, 2014 – April 30, 2014: $199 source: ARMLS
Scottsdale year over year sales 2013 - 2014:
January: down 20% February: down 20.8% March: down 23% April: down 14% source: The Wilcox Report, 5/1/14
Scottsdale year over year new listings 2013 - 2014:
January: up 24.1% February: up 17.3% March: up 4.4% April: up 4.3% source: The Wilcox Report, 5/1/14
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
7
LI NG T T
VIL
H
E O
EL
S PA
L
’S
DO
Paseo Village Shell Station
LAGE
S
Your Local Neighborhood Station For Over 35 Years! Gas Pumps Open 24/7 /
Fry's discount accepted
Lotto Tickets Available
North Paseo Del Norte, Scottsdale, AZ 85258 Hayden Rd & McCormick Pkwy (next to L.A. Fitness)
480-998-1561 8
SUMMER 2014
Jim Dottling has owned the Shell station next to LA Fitness for 15 years. The station itself has been here 35 years and seen many stores come and go in the center. What may be more surprising is that one of Dottling’s managers has worked at the station for 30 years and lives in the neighborhood. That kind of loyalty and commitment to the community is what Dottling stands for. You wouldn’t know it, but this Columbia Business School graduate has been in the oil business for nearly 50 years. After moving here from Long Island, New York, Dottling says, “I didn’t want the hustle and bustle anymore… I wanted to invest in a small station and liked the location. We have a great clientele in a great neighborhood.” The fact that there’s no other gas station within a 2-3 mile radius is also an advantage. However, the station has seen a 15% drop in business since the McDonald’s across the parking lot closed last year. He’s excited to hear rumors that a Starbucks and Firehouse Subs will be filling that spot before long. Clients sometimes complain about slightly higher prices, but unlike Costco or some of the other big names, Dottling doesn’t get a volume discount. Shell also commands a higher price because of its quality, he explains. “Many stations are in leases, but this is privately owned and I pride myself on having experienced, loyal employees. The place is kept clean, safe and well lit. We have never had a credit card fraud and we know our customers.” In his spare time, Dottling spends time restoring vintage cars from the 1950s and 60s with his son. He often drives a classic car and enjoys talking to customers about his latest restoration. The kiosk is open 6am-10pm seven days a week, but the pumps are open 24-hours. They also accept the Fry’s point discount. They offer everything a larger station does, just in smaller amounts (cold drinks, lottery tickets, cigarettes, newspapers, etc.). Stop in to support one of our locally owned businesses!
the perfect drink to Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse knows ts up. The Kiwi hea ther quench your thirst as the wea vodkas, Chamty frui of d Twister is a refreshing blen it you will actue tast you en bord and orange juice. Wh t by the pool! ally feel like you should be laying righ
Ingred ients
• 2 ounces strawberry vodka • ½ ounce mango vodka • ½ ounce lemon vodka • ½ ounce Chambord • 1 whole medium kiwi, peeled • 2 small grapefruit wedges, juiced • Splash of orange juice • Ice
ns Directio go muddle kiwi with ice, lemon, and man
recipe resident
r e t s i w t kiwi
10
SUMMER 2014
In a shaker tin, mbord, juiced grapefruit vodka. Add strawberry vodka, Cha ble strain if not a (dou and splash of orange juice. Strain cocktail glass. med rim r fan of the kiwi seeds) into a suga Jack’s Steakhouse is a Located in Old Town Scottsdale, Ben & t that offers exceptional uran resta charming 5,000 square foot modern mouth-watering side od, seafo prime dry-aged steaks and chops, fresh list. Located at wine e essiv dishes, decadent desserts, and an impr 51. 852 AZ le, 4180 N. Drinkwater Blvd. Scottsda
Four-legged
Ranchers
A Poem for Ziggy by J. Robino She’s a fluffy Goldendoodle, But prances like a Standard Poodle. Bandanas or bows, anything goes. There’s no doubt she’ll steal the show! Loyal and wise, she’s full of affection. She means more to me than a dog for protection. She gives nothing less than love and devotion. Life without Ziggy? Well, I haven’t a notion!
“Fancy is a sweet Pomeranian. She has lived in McCormick Ranch for 2 years now and absolutely loves it. Her favorite thing to do is hang out in the front courtyard and wait for friends to stop by. But her favorite thing to do is ride around on the bike (in her basket) enjoying all of the great amenities our community has to offer.” -K. Coffin
Send us a picture
of your pet! Please email
editor@mcrlife.com
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
11
The Vig to Open in June Photos provided by AV3 Design Studio
By David M. Brown 12
SUMMER 2014
The Vig at McCormick Ranch opens mid-June. The neighborhood tavern/restaurant is expected to be completed on a former pad at the southeast corner of the Paseo Village Shopping center. A Fresh & Easy store was originally planned for the site. “That didn’t come to fruition, and we were lucky enough to get the spot,” says Tucker Woodbury, who owns and operates this location and three others in the Valley with longtime business partner and Arcadia neighbor, Jimmy Riley, and other investor partners. Most McCormick Ranch residents are excited about filling an infill property with a new business that will bring excitement to the center and the community. Still, some neighbors who live behind the location were worried about late-night crowds, live music, drinking and rowdiness. “What people will quickly find out is that we are responsible operators who understand the importance of coexisting with the surrounding neighbors, whether they are fellow retailers or residences,” he says. “We involve ourselves with every community where we build a store and align ourselves with local schools and other worthwhile charitable causes. The vast majority of those we know and have spoken to in the area are excited about us coming to McCormick Ranch. Many have already dined at our other locations in the Valley and can’t wait to have a Vig closer to home.” The men opened the original store –– the name is short for “vigorish,” the interest paid to a lender –– seven and a half years ago in Arcadia, followed by an uptown Phoenix store three years later. Last September, they opened the Vig Fillmore
in downtown Phoenix. All have signature Vig design elements, including a bar adjacent to the dining space, a bocce ball court, outdoor fireplace and a large open patio. Every Vig menu has mainstays also available at the other locations, such as the Achiote Salmon & Deconstructed Fish Tacos and the Roasted Turkey Sandwich, but each store has four to six featured items that are unique, Woodbury explains. “We try to keep our food interesting but approachable, an eclectic mix of choices with something for everybody and always affordably priced for the quality and portions our guests enjoy,” he says. An extensive wine list changes three times a year, and Vigs are known for signature craft cocktails and a large selection of craft beers on draft. Part of Paseo Village was torn down to make way for the Vig, which, including the interior and patio, will be 4,764 square feet. Tenants had encouraged the property owners to build a neighborhood bar and grill to increase traffic to the center, Woodbury says. “When approached, we all agreed it was the perfect concept for the center and for the surrounding demographic.” The Vig team worked closely with architect Artie Vigil, principal of AV3 Design, Phoenix, to design a building that would both complement the existing center yet still make a statement. Alexander Building Company, Scottsdale, is the general contractor. They call the style Modern Territorial in deference to Scottsdale’s Southwestern heritage. As a result, the building incorporates natural material such as heavy timber beams and stone walls with reclaimed tongue-and-groove wood ceilings. “With its central fireplace, it will feel warm and comfortable,
with a few contemporary accents,” Woodbury says. Each Vig assumes the character of its neighborhood. “We have no specific design template,” he says. “Our previous stores are in older, architecturally significant buildings that we’ve converted to viable restaurant spaces without destroying the beautiful and historic structures.” He and Riley plan a neighbors-only open house, June 7, 4–7 p.m. prior to the public opening later in the month. Moving forward, the Vig will offer food and drink specials almost every day such as $5 Burger Mondays and the popular Sunday Funday promotion featuring any wine bottle at half price. “Community over competition” is the company game plan: “We’ll only attract more customers to the area, and this benefits all the area businesses.” Its slogan: “Let’s just go to The Vig.” “We want to be the neighborhood’s go-to spot, perfect for brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner or late night,” Woodbury says. “We’re excited to get opened and be a part of the wonderful McCormick Ranch community.”
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
13
B Meet Emma the Brave Primary Election brings
Surprising Results
As any parent will tell you, seeing your child in pain is the most gut-wrenching, helpless experience. For Keri Lee, resident and mom of three, this was her daily experience for many years. Emma has been battling “something” since she was 18 months old. She’d be playing and all of sudden shriek in pain. “We You a voter do your to parcouldn’t goare over speedand bumps, pourpart water over her head in the what America great. her But bathticipate or pullinher in amakes play wagon without are you vote when is making a differcrying,” sayssure Lee.your Finally, she was 3 and If you aren’t voting evaluations, in the Primary afterence? countless appointments, election, the answer is NO. therapies, doctor visits and tests, Dr. Bearns You see, in McCormick at Phoenix Children’s Hospital Ranch (PCH)(Legislative District ordered an MRI23), thatmost gaveof us the theelections answer. are decided in the Primary. For the Sheactually had Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma majority of elections, by the timeback a general (tumor = cancer) the length of her election arrives in November, the local inside her spine. These benign tumors often races have been decided. affect balance and coordination. She was For instance, in to addition to remove selectingthe a immediately admitted PCH to Governor, Treasurer, Attorney General, tumor. and Superintendent of Public Instruction Through tears, Lee says, “It was a one year,chance you also to in athis million forhave her an to opportunity get this. By Effie a new Stateeven Senator and vote Theselect doctors hadn’t considered thefor two State Representatives. registration numbers in this possibility. But you have toThe keepvoter pushing… district that whoever wins the Republican primary for that’s been indicate my lesson.” these district races will wincame in November. Unfortunately, the tumor back two In LD 23 alone, are 4,000 voters who participated years later at which timethere Emma endured in four of last general elections, but did not vote in the 16-months of the chemotherapy. With a twin
14
SUMMER 2014
brother (Tom) and younger sister (Kate), Emma has spent a lot of time on the sidelines talking with adults. “She’s more like an adult my age than an 8 year old,” says Lee. With therapy twice a week, their goal this year is to get her doing all of the things a kid her age usually does, like run and jump. Thereher is 3ard saying “all She was In December,primary Emma election. went through surgery. politics are to local” and it istotrue. The for closer thrilled come back Cochise 3rd grade government to you, the more it directly with all ofis her friends. Lee says, “I can’taf-say fects you; from board, to city council, enough aboutschool the exceptional support we’ve to your Statefrom senator representative. received the and Cochise community.InThey 2014 alone, the legislature more On have an amazing specialproposed needs program.” thanEmma’s 1,200 bills more back than at 300 of them firstand Monday school she was passed. It matters who youthat elect—so don’t in a wheelchair and by Friday she was passtelling up the opportunity to have a voice! her mom she could walk to class on her This own! year’s primary election will be held on August 26th.favorite Now isthing the time Emma’s to dotoisexamine draw. She howhas you feelpicked about education, public safety, been twice by PCH to be their child protective economic develfeatured artistservices, to raiseand funds with holiday opment. Are you with we themade headlines cards. Keri says,pleased “This year our own as this legislature howfor bigher “the art and helpeddetermines to raise funds therapy Carlson pie”treatment is and how of a slice agencyevents.” andbig medical billseach at various area of government If gets? Dolike youtothink you’d learnpublic more, perception please visitof ‘Emma Arizona is positive, or be better? You may heardTo thecould Braveit Will Walk Again’ on have facebook. in the past, “Don’t complain if you Forrecommends McCorhelp families in don’t need,vote.” Lee also mick Ranch, it should be, “Don’t complain you don’t vote in donating to the United ifHealthCare Children’s the Primary.” Foundation (www.UHCFF.org).
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
Keeping Kids Safe Online Is social media good for teens? “That’s the question on the minds of parents everywhere,” says Theresa Londoño, program manager at DrugFreeAZ. org. “With Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Snapchat and so many others it can be hard to keep up with all of your kid’s social networks,” Londoño says. “While many parents might agree that there are some benefits to various social media sites, they often fear that it can also be a place that can quickly become dangerous.” According to Top Ten Reviews, 73 percent of teens are on a social network. Some other interesting statistics for parents to consider: Top Ten Reviews also found that and 55 percent have given out personal information to someone they don’t know, including photos and physical descriptions. A report done in 2013 by the nonprofit child advocacy group Common Sense Media showed that one in five teens said social media makes them feel more confident.
By Katie Snyder
So, what can parents do? “As the level of online engagement increases, so do the chances of your teen being exposed to things like online bullying, sexting, inappropriate content and even drugs and alcohol,” says Londoño. “But don’t give up because you don’t know how to control it.” Londoño recommends having an online contract set up with your children. It is easier to set the “harder” rules from the beginning than to have to go back and try to enforce something later. But involving your children in making the contract is a great way to make sure they understand what is expected. Other tips for parents: Talk to your Children Often Don’t ever assume that your teen knows the dangers hiding in the digital world. “Instead of turning your child loose on the internet, make learning how to navigate the digital space a priority for the whole family,” says Londoño. “This will give you an op-
portunity to ensure your children understand the rules being online.” Know that Privacy Really Does Matter Before your child starts using any social networking website, parents should check that privacy settings are set to the strictest levels. Also, because updates are done frequently, this should be something that is reviewed at least quarterly. Facebook makes updates quite often and this could impact what private information of your children is reviewed by others. Keep Digital Devices in a Neutral Area Instead of letting your teen have a computer in his or her room, place the computer in a family living area. Having to use a computer in a public area will help reduce the likelihood your teen will explore sites or engage in behavior that he or she knows are inappropriate or in violation of family rules. For more tips and information about the classes and workshops offered, visit HYPERLINK “http://www.DrugFreeAz. org” www.DrugFreeAz.org.
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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
15
Taliesin West
Camp Experience:
Dream, Innovate, Create When Frank Lloyd Wright was a boy, he was given the famous Froebel blocks, which also became learning tools for designers, artists and thinkers such as Charles Eames, Buckminster Fuller, Paul Klee and Albert Einstein. Wright, and they, built legendary careers with their foundation. Since 1995, Taliesin West, Wright’s winter home and architectural laboratory in Scottsdale, now a National Historic Landmark, offers Youth Summer Camps for children to find their way as architects, designers or whatever path they may eventually take, perhaps even a road not taken. Founded and led by Shawn RorkeDavis, director of K–12 Education for the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, which owns and operates Taliesin West, the Summer Art and Architecture Camps provide young people in grades 2–12 fulland half-day learning experiences. “Students view Taliesin West at different times of day and are immersed in the beautiful setting,” Rorke-Davis says. “Architecture is the perfect vehicle for students to integrate existing skills in math and science and learn new ones. “These are hands-on, project-oriented activities that stretch the camper’s creativity and foster imaginative solutions to design problems,” she adds, noting 16
SUMMER 2014
By David M. Brown
that full-day campers eat lunch in the dining room with members of the vibrant community and may meet people who studied with Wright.The offerings include Ceramics & Pottery, with work on a potter’s wheel; Drawing I and II, using photos of the buildings at Taliesin West and Wright’s architecture for inspiration through various media: pencil, charcoal, colored pencil, pastels and water color; and Architectural Discovery, exploring some of Wright’s most famous architectural concepts while creating abstract art. In addition, the docket includes Figurative Sculpture, working with waterbased ceramic and oil-based nonfired clays to produce finished pieces; Photographing Wright, learning concepts such as aperture,
shutter speed and ISO; and Design Your Dream Space, in which participants use art, math, science, language and new technology to learn how to draw a floor plan to scale and construct a 3-D model of a personal living space. “The camp environment is relaxed, and questions are encouraged,” Rorke-Davis says. “Each student begins where she/he is and progresses in the exploration of new ideas.” In one camp, Wright for the Future, students deal with new ideas and challenges associated with global warming, pollution, trends in energy and communication technologies, advancements in construction methods and modes of transportation. In planning and designing an ideal city of the future, each camper will construct a three-dimensional model of his or her structures. Wright, of course, was always looking forward, inspired by technology and innovation throughout his life. After visiting Arizona in 1927 to consult on designs for the Arizona Biltmore, he returned seven years later with his students to escape the Wisconsin winter at the original Taliesin and to work on his concepts for the visionary Broadacre City model, which debuted at Rockefeller Center in 1935. More than a half century later, in 1991, the American
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Institute of Architects named Frank Lloyd Wright named him the America’s greatest architect. By 1937, he acquired several hundred acres of desert at the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, and began building Taliesin West, using local materials to reflect his concept of “organic architecture” –– that buildings connect with their surroundings and draw inspiration from nature. “At Taliesin West, our summer camp participants, and the more than 110,000 guests who visit every year, are filled with surprise, majestic views, and intimate interior details as they discover the places that Frank Lloyd Wright lived, worked and played in the Arizona desert,” says Jonathan West, director of Communications for the Foundation, established by Wright in 1940 and dedicated to affirming connections to natural and built environments through his work. That work has helped shape the Valley’s architectural landscape, says Victor Sidy, dean of The Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture, which Wright established 75-plus years ago as Taliesin Fellowship. “Over the past 75-plus years, the school has provided the local architectural community with some of its brightest architectural stars, who have created buildings strongly rooted in the desert environment and our local culture,” he says. “The towering achievements of Taliesin West; the David and Gladys Wright House; Grady Gammage Auditorium, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year; The UHaul House (formerly the Harold Price, Sr. House); and other buildings and projects that Wright led or influenced in Arizona until his death in 1959 continue to inspire innovators and dreamers.” Detailed camp descriptions, registration and payment information, including available discounts, are http//: franklloydwright.org/about/Campsand Classes.html. Fall and weekend classes and school field trips are also part of the FLWF education programs. For more information on the summer camps, call Rorke-Davis, 480.627.5355.
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All images courtesy The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation Archives (The Museum of Modern Art |Avery Architectural & Fine Arts Library, Columbia University, New York)
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
17
Altitude Coffee Lab: An Elevated Experience
If you haven’t tried our newest area coffee shop, you’re missing what might be Scottsdale’s best java with a view! Let’s start with getting to know co-owner Craig Matthew who always greets customers with a smile. Originally from Montreal, he was a professional golfer who won the Canadian Amateur Championship in 1998. A few years ago he put up the clubs and relocated to Scottsdale in pursuit of his second love, music. In fact, you may just hear him singing and playing the guitar over the speakers. His partners Paul Musikanth and Rod Scribner fly in every few weeks to put their twist on a growing menu of delicious food and lineup of events, like karaoke every Thursday and Friday night, at Altitude. These gentlemen are friends from different backgrounds who joined together in Cape Town, South Africa to train for their coffee roasting technique. Matthew says, “We have a state-of-the-art roaster from Portugal and trend toward lighter roasts. We source our beans from Sumatra, Rwanda, Columbia, Mexico, really all over.” He adds, “There really is a lack of good coffee in Scottsdale. If you roast within 2-3 days, like we do, the difference in taste is enormous. Large chains typically roast 6 months out. They have lower quality beans to start with and roast heavily to compensate, which leaves a harsh aftertaste.” Open since September of 2013, Altitude’s hours are Monday-Tuesday, 7am-6pm and Weds-Sunday, 7am-9pm. They worked with interior designer Jill Cooper of Lost + Found Consignment to bring the feel of quaint, character shops. After considering Old Town, the partners decided they wanted something more comfortable – and I’d say they found it! Located near the edge of Lake Marguerite in Mercado Del Lago (north of Via de Ventura on Hayden behind Chipotle), it’s a perfect pit stop along the Greenbelt. Set up like for an international barrista competition, their coffee grinder is calibrated every morning to make sure your coffee comes out just right. A quality espresso is the true test of stellar coffee and I was given a crash course. Here’s the anatomy of a cup: the “crema” is the magical foam on top, the “body” is the middle and the “heart” is at the bottom. Latte’s are Altitude’s top requested drink and they dare you to drink it without any sugar, enjoying the natural sugar from the milk makes it just sweet enough. With a full bar, free wi-fi and dog-friendly patio, there is a great vibe at Altitude Coffee Lab any time of day. 480 878-5611. 18 SUMMER 2014
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Headmaster Dr. Mark Discher visits the Cicero site with Assistant Headmaster Matthew Vlahovich (right).
Starting August 11th, the newest Great Hearts Academies charter school will open their doors at The Pavilions, just north of Indian Bend Road (in the previous Cracker Jax park area). How they chose this location is just one example of why charter schools are attracting more and more students. It was one year ago that Great Hearts began looking for where they could put another campus. Since attendance is based on a strict lottery system, they looked at their long waiting lists and determined by zip code that 85258 had the most concentrated requests. The Pavilions was a central location with easy 101 access and the property managers were eager to work with them in filling a need. Great Hearts CEO Dan Skoggin says, “Both DeRito Partners and the Salt River Pima Indian Community have been wonderful partners. They helped to expedite reviews and make it a priority to open in time for the next school year.” The well-reputed family of schools, which include Veritas and Scottsdale Prep, plans to open 6 more campuses within metro Phoenix by 2020. Deep into the hiring phase, the school recruits nationally to find teachers who embrace their mission and Socratic method. Already virtually full, the liberal arts program boasts a 14:1 student teacher ratio. Skoggin explains that they are offering a private education free of charge. “As a non-profit organization, we are blessed to have national donors and generous families. We spend $1,500 more per child each year than in the public system,” he says. The new 10-acre Cicero campus will feature a full gym, sports field, science lab, library, K-5 and 6-12 educational buildings. “We’re very proud of the modern styling with lots of natural light and functional use of space. There will even be a central quad for students to have lunch and enjoy other events,” says Skoggin. Unlike district schools, there is no traditional hot lunch program or bus system and students are required to wear a uniform. If things go as planned, the Cicero campus will also open the first Great Hearts preschool program in the Chuck E. Cheese building. Mark Discher, Cicero’s Headmaster, holds a doctorate from Oxford University and has been a professor for most of his career. He says, “My goal is simple: To recruit a first class faculty and deliver a first class education with a joyful spirit.” For more information, visit greatheartsaz.org.
Cicero Academy Countdown
A Perfect Location in
The Pavilions 20
SUMMER 2014
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Local Events Sunday Evening Concerts
May 4 – July 6, 7:30– 9:00 p.m. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park provides a fun atmosphere with local favorite bands in the mix every Sunday evening! Whether you are with your family, on a date, or just on a bike ride to the park, you won’t want to miss this experience. The crowds come early to grab a spot on the lawn and relax, enjoy a picnic, dance, play, and take a ride on the train or carousel rides. Come once and you will be ABOARD for the rest of the concerts! For more information call (480) 312-2312 or visit www. therailroadpark.com
The 39th Annual Mighty Mud Mania
This mud-filled event offers mud obstacles for the entire family to enjoy as well “Town of Mud” and “Mudville” for tiny tots. Obstacle courses include the Original Mud Course (7-13yrs), Mini Mud (6 & under), Extreme course (13 -17) and much more (even non-muddy fun like large water slide for those who prefer to stay clean). Free for the kids (18+ pays $10 fee to run course). So mark your calendar for Saturday June 7, 2014 from 7:30am to 1pm to continue the tradition at Chaparral Park in Scottsdale. For More information go to www.scottsdaleaz. gov/MightyMudMania
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SUMMER 2014
Splash into an Aquatic Center!
McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic Center is a unique municipal facility located at 15525 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy in Scottsdale. The amenities in the pool area are outstanding and include lap lanes, diving boards, tube water slide, lazy river, splash pad, and beach entry water playground pool. The facility also has a fitness center with weights and cardio machines as well as a skate park and ball fields. In the summer, McDowell Mountain Ranch offers learn to swim lessons for infants, children and adults as well as water aerobics classes in the mornings, Monday through Thursday. The classes range in size from private lessons to group lessons as big as 12 participants. There are also summer recreation swim and dive teams that compete in meets against the recreational teams from other City of Scottsdale aquatic centers. Public swimming at MMR starts weekends in May from 1-5pm on Saturday and Sundays and then every day starting June 2nd. The hours of operation for public swim in the summer are M-Th: 1p-6p, F: 10a3p, and S/S: 1p-5p. Scottsdale’s Summer Family Pass allows families of all sizes unlimited public swim and fitness center visits from Memorial Day through Labor Day. A resident Family Pass at McDowell Mountain Ranch for a family of 4 costs $140 ($20 for each additional family member). The McDowell Mountain Ranch Family Pass is good at all four Scottsdale Aquatic Centers. Resident drop-in rates are $4 per child and $6 per adult.
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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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