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OdySea of the Desert Breaks Ground Flight Path Moves Over 85258 SPRING 2015
Buster’s Comeback as Bistro du Lac
TUSCANY at McCormick Ranch TWICE AS FUN! We offer a carefree, full service independent living lifestyle so you can spend your time and energy focusing on life enhancing activities and relationships. “We came to Tuscany thinking we were downsizing our life and to our surprise life has never been so full of friends and fun. Now we have an active fulfilling life AND our very own spacious Villa to come home to!” —Tuscany Residents
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9000 E. San Victor Drive, Scottsdale,AZ 85258 www.MBKSeniorLiving.com
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Contents 12
Features:
Odysea in the Desert Breaks Ground . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Bistro du Lac Opens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Flight Path over 85258 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 In Every Issue:
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Real Estate Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Four-Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Local Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Local Business HighlightS: Restful Peace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Engel & Volkers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 On the cover: Black Crowned Night Heron photo by Violetta Hargitay. 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.
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SPRING 2015
Letter from the
Editor
It’s turning out to be quite a year for Scottsdale with record attendance at Barrett Jackson and the Waste Management Open, not to mention all of the Super Bowl events that took place here. Now we’re winding up for baseball season and the traffic has no sign of slowing down. Even the air traffic has increased! 1,800 private jets came to the Valley in February and the FAA has made changes to the Sky Harbor flight path, affecting many of us right here in 85258. Read more about how these changes are impacting Scottsdale on page 16. As a native, these growing pains are bittersweet. On one hand I want my city to grow and thrive, but on the other, I’m sad to see its quiet charm slowly disappear. Hitting very close to home is the continued expansion of our entertainment district on Via de Ventura. The feature in this issue explores the novelty of OdySea Aquarium, which will open next year, and what it means for this part of town. With all of this busy-ness, I couldn’t help but think about some slower paced destinations. One of my favorite discoveries during the course of this publication was a story I wrote on Arizona wineries. If you’re like me, the idea initially made me chuckle, but what my husband and I happily discovered on that day trip in 2011 was how the desert is really teeming with life and possibility. Enjoy this beautiful Spring season! Until next time,
Alexandra Duemer alexandra@mcrlife.com
Connect with us
@MCRLife
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
5
Real Estate What showed continued strength in its real estate market and felt like it lived in the center of the universe for the past 8 weeks? McCormick Ranch! The Holidays, Fiesta Bowl, Barrett-Jackson, WM Open, NFL’s Pro Bowl, & The Super Bowl was an amazing series of events and a wonderful showcase of our City. The jury is out if it did anything for our real estate market, but the great news is we didn’t need it. The single-family residential market in McCormick Ranch continues to show consistent, solid activity all on its own. Last article highlighted the activity in the condominium / townhouse market, and the strengthening consistency in the single-family home prices. We expected to see more of this consistency in single family home values since the last quarter. Holiday Season always means a smaller number of sales, and January delivers new inventory, which includes some really nice product in the higher-end range. What Happened Since November: The Holidays, as expected, took a bite out of overall activity, with 35 single family homes selling from November 1 through January 31. This was down from 49 sales in the previous quarter. Closings in this time averaged $210 per square foot (-2%) and the average sales price dropped from $555,120 to $518,498 (-6.5%). (This is still significantly higher than Q2 2014, when sales averaged $483,366.) The biggest factor in the decrease in the average sales price from last quarter was only one sale over $800,000 and six sales at $425,000 and lower. Last quarter’s high average sales price was bolstered by six sales well over $900,000. We’re not nearly as concerned with average sales price as average price per square foot, which was a negligible decrease from last quarter at -2%. 20% of the sales were in the $600,000 range, which has consistently been the “sweet spot” in pricing and value on the 6
SPRING 2015
Ranch, especially north of Via de Ventura The average price per square foot stayed very consistent over the past 3 quarters ($211 / $214 / $210). Current pending sales are at $214. Where We Are Today: Currently, activity is very brisk with 18 homes under contract at the time of this article, at an average list price of $514,450 and $214 per square foot. Smaller homes are selling, trending the average list price down. For new inventory as of 2/1, we are looking at 55 singlefamily homes actively on the market, 20 of which came on after January 1. This new inventory includes some beautiful new remodels and highly sought-after waterfront property. Inventory on the higher-end looks very good. Sellers of single family homes must continue to make their property shine to attract today’s buyer who just wants to buy and move in. An updated, clean, & well-kept home sells. Dated homes take a little longer. Last issue, we explored the patio home / townhome market (excluding apartment-style condominiums). In the past 92 days, this market continued to amaze: 16 sales at an average sales price of over $418,000 ($222 per square foot), and the average days on market was only 13 days. Currently, 6 are under contract at an average list price of $454,000 ($222 per square foot), and went under contract in an average of only 6 days. As of 2/1, inventory is extremely limited and this market could not be more in the Sellers’ favor. With our strong visitor season hitting stride, and a significant downsizing movement from Paradise Valley and North Scottsdale, we feel Sellers will find great success in the patio home / townhome market through the Spring. After a surreal winter, McCormick Ranch and other Central Scottsdale neighborhoods can get back to living as usual. The townhome market should continue to stay white hot and lead us into a brisk Spring selling season in the single family market. We
By Gene Montemore & Gary May BY THE NUMBERS: Number of single-family closings in MCR: May 1 – July 31 (92 days): 63 August 1 – October 31 (92 days): 49 November 1 – January 31, 2015 (92 days): 35 source: ARMLS
Average sales price: May 1, 2014 – July 31, 2014: $524,478 August 1 – October 31: $555,120 (5.5% increase) November 1 – January 31, 2015: $514,498 (6.5% decrease) source: ARMLS
Average price per square foot: May 1, 2014 – July 31, 2014: $212 August 1, 2014 – October 31, 2014: $214 (1% increase) November 1, 2014 – January 31, 2015: $210 (2% decrease) source: ARMLS
have nice, fresh inventory that has definitely gotten buyers off the sidelines. 2014 proved to be consistent (see: flat) and we’re very hopeful that 2015 is the beginning of a great real estate market run in McCormick Ranch. Go see an Open House! 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. McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Spot light :
A Personal Peace
The problems of the world fade into an oblivious 60 minutes of relief that you don’t want to end. Evidence is showing that the more massage you can allow yourself, the better you’ll feel. Here’s why: - It increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients into tissues and vital organs. - Stimulates the flow of lymph, the body’s natural defense system, against toxic invaders. - Increased circulation of blood and lymph systems improves the condition of the body’s largest organ - the skin. - Relaxes and softens injured and overused muscles. - Reduces spasms and cramping. - Increases joint flexibility. - Reduces recovery time, helps prepare for strenuous workouts and eliminates subsequent pains of the athlete at any level. - Releases endorphins - the body’s natural painkiller. - Reduces post-surgery adhesions and edema and can be used to reduce and realign scar tissue after healing has occurred. - Improves range-of-motion and decreases discomfort for patients with low back pain. - Provides exercise and stretching for atrophied muscles and reduces shortening of the muscles for those with restricted range of motion. Amy Diamondstein began her journey as a massage therapist after feeling unfulfilled in her high-stress marketing job. “I wanted to be in the healing arts and leave a positive mark on the world,” she says. Amy opened A Personal Peace 8
SPRING 2015
after graduating from the Southwest Institute for Healing Arts in 2012. She focuses on stress relieving treatments from around the world, elder therapy and yoga instruction. “I care very deeply for people and pride myself on the personal relationships I develop. Clients know I’m invested in their healing and it truly makes a difference.” One of the most significant breakthroughs she has witnessed was with her own mother who had dislocated her jaw. Doctors had recommended very invasive surgery, but there was a risk that it wouldn’t work. She couldn’t open her mouth to eat normally and was in pain for nearly a year when Amy started giving her East Indian Head and Face treatments. Progress was immediate and she was soon able to open her mouth completely with no surgery needed! She believes that to really benefit from massage, you have to come at least once a month. This is offered as a discount package. Amy says, “I’m in this to make people feel better and I work with my regular clients to make it affordable.” Every month there is a new promotion and new clients get $20 off their first visit. Amy can make house calls, but her McCormick Ranch office (just North of Mountainview on Hayden) is set up for a variety of healing services, from head to toe. Hours are by appointment only, but Amy strives to accommodate the varying schedules of her clients. Amy also teaches a women’s beginning yoga class at Studio North Yoga on Tuesdays at 4:30pm. For more information, please call or text 480.235.2249.
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CA RD
Garlic Verde RECIPE
Shrimp
By The Cove Trattoria The Garlic Verde Shrimp is an easy appetizer to make for your next dinner party, or cook with your favorite pasta and you’ll have a delicious entrée in minutes! It pairs nicely with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
• Fresh Pesto • 2 cups fresh basil leaves • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano cheese • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil • 1/3 cup pine nuts or walnuts • 3 medium sized garlic cloves • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (Makes about 1 cup)
10
SPRING 2015
1. Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. Add the garlic and cheese and pulse a few times more. 2. Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. How to Prepare Dish: · Peel and de-vein shrimp · Heat olive oil in sauté pan · Add shrimp – cook 3-5 minutes · Add pesto and sauté · Add sun-dried tomatoes when pesto is hot · Take sauté pan off heat · Arrange shrimp on platter in a row, you can also add pasta if you want to make this an entrée. · Place pesto and sun-dried tomatoes alongside the shrimp The Cove Trattoria is a family-owned restaurant located in Scottsdale’s Seville shopping center on the northeast corner of Indian Bend & Scottsdale Road. Open daily for lunch and dinner, to learn more visit thecovescottsdale.com or call (480) 951-8273 to make reservations.
Miss Jessie is our first family dog! She is an 8-month old rescue (beagle and boxer mix) who couldn’t be sweeter. The dog park is one of her favorite places to go and make new friends. She runs like the wind and will do anything for a treat!
Four-legged
Ranchers Send us a picture
of your pet!
Addie is our 8-year-old Jack Russell/Chihuahua. Here she is in her sundress getting ready for the summer heat! Addie’s favorite part of the Ranch is walking all the greenbelts.
Please email
editor@mcrlife.com
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
11
OdySea Aquarium Breaks Ground
December, the Salt River Maricopa Pima Design Review Board approved the design of Via de Ventura’s newest project: OdySea Aquarium. It’s been on the radar screen for several years now, as this is the 2nd phase of a large entertainment project, including Butterfly Wonderland, OdySea Mirror Maze and upcoming restaurant and retail space, just off the 101 freeway. Amram Knishinsky, cofounder of the project, is a handson investor whose excitement is immediately understood. He says, “We are setting the tone here for how marine life will be viewed in decades to come.” Scheduled to open in May 2016, the unique aspect of this aquarium project is that the investors are bringing the aquarium industry to such a large scale. At 200,000 square feet and 58 feet high, this will not only be the largest aquarium in the Southwest, but one of the largest in the country. OdySea Aquarium will feature 2 million gallons of water with unique visitor experiences, including 3D theatres, restaurants and a gift shop. The entire OdySea in the Desert project is estimated
12
SPRING 2015
to be $175 million. A 501c3 has been formed which will operate much like Butterfly Wonderland who have catered to over 1,000 school groups every year and offer a multitude of educational and conservation programs as well. When people walk in they’ll find a space with a dozen 36” globe aquariums hanging from the ceiling at different heights. Each one will hold a different colored school of fish, so a rainbow of color will be hovering above the lobby. With over 60,000 pounds hanging from the ceiling, this requires special infrastructure, making it just one of the engineering feats at OdySea. It also gives visitors just a taste of what they can expect around each corner. Even the exterior bathroom walls will face a shark tank. “These are the kinds of twists we’re creating from the get go. We really want this to be a unique experience in every way,” says Knishinsky. Visitors will follow the storyline of water that drops from the sky, into lakes and rivers and making its way to the shores of different countries showcasing marine life from around
the world. The acrylic tunnel system will take you from the second floor down to the “depths of the ocean” with fish all around you. Films feature animals that the aquarium won’t have, like whales and dolphins, so that the aquatic experience is complete. Animatronic sea captains will keep the public entertained and educated along the way. And kids will love the pop-in tunnels that allow them to crawl in various tanks and see things from a different perspective. Every 2-hours a march of the penguins will delight guests. They also took the opportunity to create unique shaped aquariums, like an 11-foot martini glass. “It will be filled with swirls of sardines and makes for a great photo opp,” says Knishinsky. Because the aquarium is in its building phase now, OdysSea has the advantage of bringing in new technology that can be challenging for established locations. They will be presenting SeaTREK which allows visitors to put on a special helmet and walk around with the fish and other sea creatures. Sea World in Orlando has this interactive experience, but no other aquarium has it yet. Anyone ages 8+ can try this experience after a 30-
minute orientation. No scuba license is required, but you will need to bring a swimsuit! Odysea’s signature exhibit features theme park technology that has never been done anywhere in the world. Knishinsky is keeping this a secret for now, but says with confidence, “Be prepared for the ride of your life.” Since fish don’t sleep, they look forward to hosting evening events here also. A visit will take 2-3 hours on average, making this a destination for people from all over the state. Tongue in cheek, Knishinsky adds, “With the way things are going, this corner may become one of the most popular in Arizona.” Indeed, several projects are in motion for this area, including indoor skydiving and a 4-acre venue yet to be disclosed. Via de Ventura is certainly holding up to its name: Way of Fortune. For more information, please visit odyseaaquarium.com Lifetime memberships are now being offered for $399 per person or $1099 for a family of four (limited quantity available). Tickets will be $32.95 for adult and $23.95 for children 3-18.
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
13
Meet Emma the Brave
Bistro du Lac, a new French bistro and bakery has opened at 8320 North Hayden Road, Suite D-101 in the space that was formerly Buster’s on the Lake. Bisto du Lac located on the lake in McCormick Ranch is open days per(Tom) week and for lunch andsister dinner starting at 11:00 a.m. a lot of As any parent will tell you, seeing your child in pain is the sevenbrother younger (Kate), Emma has spent is served Saturday and with Sunday from“She’s 8:00 more a.m. tolike 3:00 most gut-wrenching, helpless experience. For Keri Lee, resident Brunch time on the on sidelines talking adults. an p.m. adult longtime French-born the restaurant will be and mom of three, this was her daily experience for many years. Founded my ageby than an 8 year old,” saysfriends, Lee. With therapy twice a week, Restaurant Manager Emma has been battling “something” since she was 18 months operated theirbygoal this yearand is Bakery to get her doingCatherine all of theBerraud things aDufour kid her and Lounge Manager Voisin. Bistro du Lac’s Executive Pastry old. She’d be playing and all of sudden shriek in pain. “We age usually does,Thierry like run and jump. Claude Melito whowent will provide array mouth-watering couldn’t go over speed bumps, pour water over her head in the Chef is Jean In December, Emma throughanher 3rdofsurgery. She was authentic French pastries daily including croissants, fresh-baked bath or pull her in a play wagon without her thrilled to come back tomacarons, Cochise for 3rd grade breads and more. Executive Sous Charles Delli crying,” says Lee. Finally, when she was 3 and with allChef of her friends. LeePizzi says,currently “I can’t heads say the kitchen and the Executive Chefabout will be shortly.support we’ve after countless appointments, evaluations, enough thenamed exceptional Bistro du Lac’s menu is very classically a few twists therapies, doctor visits and tests, Dr. Bearns received from theFrench Cochisewith community. They including a Caesar salad with roasted special tomatoes, hearts of at Phoenix Children’s Hospital (PCH) haveslow an amazing needs program.” On romaine and fresh basil, Ahi Pokefirst and Monday watermelon ordered an MRI that gave us the answer. Emma’s back“martini” at school with she was a sweet chili sauce and cream of mushroom with brie-filled She had Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma in a wheelchair and soup by that Friday she was profiteroles. (tumor = cancer) the length of her back telling her mom she could walk to class on her “We will feature French favorites like steak frites, bouillabaisse, and inside her spine. These benign tumors often own! beef bourguignon on the menu as well some thing twiststothat give She the affect balance and coordination. She was Emma’s favorite do will is draw. menu a broad appeal,” said Dufour. immediately admitted to PCH to remove the hasBerraud been picked twice by PCH to be their The atmosphere at Bistro du Lac is bright cheerful with tumor. featured artist to raiseand funds with holiday tomato-red walls offset bycards. whiteKeri accents crystal Through tears, Lee says, “It was a one says, and “This year chandeliers. we made ourThe own space also features two expansive patios to onraise the lake, large in a million chance for her to get this. art and helped fundsa for herlounge therapy and French bakery and market. The doctors hadn’t even considered the treatment and medical bills at various events.” “We are truly a neighborhood bistromore, in theplease heart visit of ‘Emma possibility. But you have to keep pushing… If you’d French like to learn Scottsdale and we cannotthe wait to get to Walk knowAgain’ our neighbors,” saidTo that’s been my lesson.” Brave Will on facebook. Berraud Dufour. Unfortunately, the tumor came back two help families in need, Lee also recommends For more informationdonating call 480-203-2075 or visit www. Children’s years later at which time Emma endured to the United HealthCare bistrodulacaz.com. 16-months of chemotherapy. With a twin Foundation (www.UHCFF.org).
Bistro du Lac:
14 SPRING 2015
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
Photo credit Grace Stufkosky
Authentic French Cuisine in the Heart of Scottsdale
Flight path moves over 85258 by John Washington If you have noticed a significant increase in air traffic noise in Scottsdale from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport departures, you are not alone. Folks in Phoenix and neighboring cities have been complaining mightily about changes to flight paths implemented by the FAA in mid-September 2014. Quoting from a recent Arizona Republic article by Brittany Hargrave, “Phoenix neighbors protest Sky Harbor flight-path change,” On Sept. 18, the FAA made the change as part of its NextGen plan, which implements satellite-based navigation. The FAA implemented the new procedures to improve safety and efficiency, [FAA spokesman Ian] Gregor said. The new departure routes are automatically separated from arrival routes, he said. Airlines program the procedures into their flight computers and planes fly the routes automatically, improving flight-route predictability, decreasing communications between controllers and pilots and providing more direct routes. The new system also reduces fuel emissions and associated carbon dioxide emissions through shorter routes, Gregor said. Planes heading to destinations north and east of Phoenix use the new flight path, Gregor said. Both the old and new flight paths require planes to fly west before turning north. With the old flight path, planes began northbound turns about nine miles west of the airport, Gregor said. With the new flight path, planes turn north about three miles west of the airport. [Presumably departures to the east are also
turned north well in advance of their previous turn points, as this writer has personally observed]. The FAA conducted safety and environmental analyses prior to the change, but the pushback came as a surprise, …Gregor said. “We did not anticipate the new procedures would create noise concerns in residential neighborhoods,” he said. Phoenix’s Aviation Department initially learned about the changes in late 2013, [Sky Harbor spokeswoman Julie] Rodriguez said. However, Sky Harbor does not have decision-making power or veto authority over flight paths, she said. According to another AZR article by Caitlin McGlade, “FAA: Sky Harbor, state office knew of flight change,” Phoenix aviation staff members knew about a proposed shift in Sky Harbor International Airport flight paths over historic neighborhoods a year before the controversial plan was implemented, but management says the department thought those plans were just drafts until two weeks prior to launch in September. Complaints from at least one Scottsdale resident have turned up information that seemed to indicate City of Scottsdale aviation administration knew about the changes, too, and also failed to notify residents or adequately assist them in their efforts to get more information. However, those officials denied advance knowledge. FAA officials have promised a response to inquiries about volume of noise complaints relating to the flight path changes. A similar change in routing a decade ago called “Northwest 2000” generated a large volume of noise complaints, and an unsuccessful lawsuit by the town of Cave Creek.
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Local TV Personality Turned Tell-All Author By: Nadine Bubeck
I’ve always dreamt of writing a book—writing has always been my passion and therapy. However, I never thought my first book would be a tell-all account about my pregnancy. When my husband and I started trying to get pregnant, I thought the whole process was a whirlwind. On one hand, it was fun and exciting— on the other, I feared infertility. And so I turned to my laptop, documenting our “getting pregnant” experience. Luckily we got pregnant pretty quick, and I counted my lucky stars. However, I morphed into an OCD pregnant lady, wanting to do everything “right” and following all the pregnancy “rules.” And so I turned to my laptop, documenting my thoughts and feelings. Our 20-week doctor appointment rolled around, and I was told there was a problem with my “perfect” pregnancy. I had complete placenta previa; my life was at risk, my baby’s life was at risk, I would likely bleed, be hospitalized, put on bed rest, and birth a preemie—a lot to digest and accept, as you can imagine. And so I turned to my laptop, documenting the remainder of my pregnancy. Everything my doctor told me happened: I was on bed rest, hospitalized, and birthed a beautiful preemie 6 weeks early. My 4-pound Nicholas spent 7 nights in the Scottsdale Healthcare NICU—the most amazing facility given our situation. I continued journaling throughout my son’s birth and NICU experience. Going through with publishing my 16
SPRING 2015
diary was a big decision. First, I feared being judged sharing such a real-life story: my deepest emotions, thoughts, and feelings. And second, it was also exposing my family: my husband had grown up in Scottsdale, and I wanted his “OK” to put our lives out there. When I finished my journal, I handed my husband a proof, and he read the entire thing in our McCormick Ranch backyard. Upon completion, he came inside and said, “Go for it.” And so I did. I hope Expecting Perfect: My Bumpy Journey to Mommyhood acts as an entertaining; yet, helpful aid to women like myself, eager and excited to assume the greatest most rewarding title in the world: mom. My goal: giving women an outlet to relate
to—encouraging them to embrace imperfection: that even a bumpy journey can be a beautiful experience. Nicholas is now a thriving toddler—the light of my life, and my biggest blessing. And motherhood continues to amaze me. After 4 years as traffic anchor at CBS-5, Phoenix, my life has taken a beautiful turn, focusing on my family. I now have perspective and priority I never realized existed, and I savor every smile, laugh, and “first” I witness with Nicholas. After growing up in California, I’ve found home in Scottsdale, and I’m thrilled to raise my family in this loving, well-cared for community. McCormick Ranch is an exceptional place to live: my husband and I got married on the first golf course he played as a kid; we have family down the street; and the greenbelts and greenery of the area are Scottsdale’s best-kept secret. My Arizona Women’s Care OBGYN, Dr. JulieAnn Heathcott, wrote the foreword to my book, and by the time you’re reading this, she will have delivered my second child, born in February. I count my blessings. About Nadine Bubeck Nadine Bubeck is a TV personality, host, blogger, and author. Her book has been featured on television stations nationwide, and highlighted in magazines and online publications. She runs a lifestyle website, is the host of MomsMagazine. com’s Moms TV, has an online mommy show, and does public relations. Nadine’s book is available on Amazon. For more information, visit: www.nadinebubeck.com.
HAPPY HOUR
REINVENTED
At the Downside Risk, we’ve decided to give our Happy Hour a reboot. Starting this week, we’re introducing some new scrumptious small bites and irresistible drink specials that will be sure to whet your appetite.
Guests can wine and dine on some of our newest additions to our Happy Hour Menu items like our crispy calamari rings, tasty potstickers, or one of our delectable tenderloin, burger, or buffalo chicken sliders. Grab some friends or coworkers and stop by daily from 3-7pm and weekends all day to taste our new Happy Hour Menu and let us know what you think!
DON’T FORGET ABOUT OUR... TANTALIZING MENU
INCREDIBLE WINES
8989 N. SCOTTSDALE RD., SUITE 608 SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85253 | 480-245-6513
SUSHI MENU
VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.DOWNSIDE-RISK.COM
Flashback Story:
Arizona Wineries
Gain Ground Originally published in our Winter 2011 issue, we felt this was worthy of an update. The elixir of the gods… In Vino Veritas... Historical references and quotes about wine abound. It is believed that the art of fermenting grapes started 8,000 years ago in Ancient Rome. Although wine has been produced in Arizona since the 1700’s by the Spanish Missionaries, the modern state of Arizona wine is fairly new. You may have heard about the Southern vineyards in Willcox and Sonoita, but the rapidly growing region of Cornville and Jerome is raising more than a few eyebrows. The Verde Valley wine region is located less than two hours North off 89A. As Deb Wahl, owner of Oak Creek Winery explains, “We are on the same latitude as Paso Robles, CA and Lebanon, the originator of viticulture – great wine producing areas.” Established in 2003, this 10-acre family-owned winery produces 1,500 cases of wine each year. Previously a wine broker in Australia, Europe and Argentina, Wahl fell in love with the land here. Her wine, which ranges from Chardonnay to Port, is a testament of love and experience. All of her wines are 14% alcohol or more because, “it intensifies the flavor of the fruit”. There are now over 45 licensed and bonded wineries in the state of Arizona comprising a total of 700 acres. Arizona’s high desert produces a climate similar to Mendoza, Argentina. The hot daytime temperatures and cool nights are the perfect recipe for a happy grape. Most of Arizona’s vineyards can be found between 4,200 and 5,200 feet. The Arizona growing season is rather short (May 1 – August 31), but predictable. The vine root systems love the volcanic soil in Verde Valley and there is a healthy marine layer on top of it (shells 18 SPRING 2015
and fish skeletons are often found), which provides additional nutrients. Since it is so dry, there is the added benefit of few bug or mold problems. Nearby Yavapai College is proud to offer a new viticulture program. It is the first community college viticulture program in the state and one of only a handful in the country. For those looking to expand their knowledge about the wine making process, some classes are even available online. The wineries are all very close to one another and tastings range in price from $5 to $10 per flight. Page Springs Cellars founded by Eric Glomski is very popular due in part to the notoriety gained from the film Blood Into Wine with fellow vintner Maynard Keenan (lead singer of the rock band Tool) of Caduceus Winery. This exposure was a turning point for Arizona wines and its audience. Glomski The Verde Valley Wine Trail connects the dots between 4 wineries: Alcantara Vineyards, Page Springs Cellars, Oak Creek Vineyards, & Javelina Leap Vineyards, and 4 tasting rooms: Cellar 433, Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, Pillsbury Wine Company, and Burning Tree Cellars. While on the trail visitors will not only experience the skillfully crafted wines that each produces but also the beauty of the region. What better way to enjoy a day or more than touring the wineries, tasting rooms, area attractions and the great restaurants and bistros that dot the landscape? For more information, visit arizonawine.org!
started Page Springs Cellars in 2003 and, combined with his vineyards in Willcox, is one of the largest wineries in the state. Glomski and Keenan have also joined forces under the label Arizona Stronghold to produce excellent wines served in local-centric restaurants like FnB in Old Town or Quiessence at The Farm on South Mountain. In 2012, their wines were selected as the best red and white in the state. They’ve recently decided to go separate ways and Keenan will rename his Jerome vineyard to Al Buhl. As one patron said, “Wine is meant to enjoy, share and enhance a meal. There is no guilt associated with drinking wine. Being able to visit the vineyard is fun because it’s a journey... and you can talk with the winemakers about their experience.” Arizona wines, though still young, have already received many praises in the industries holy grail of Wine Spectator magazine. Dana, Tasting room manager for Pillsbury Wine in Cottonwood says, “The people making wine here are passionate and eccentric and the end product is extremely high quality and very low acid.” She adds, “We’re selling out of everything because of limited quantity. Sometimes when people come in to taste a wine and ask what vintage it is, I have to chuckle because instead of 2010, it’s Tuesday.” For the wine enthusiast, Wine Clubs are available at each winery, though some have waiting lists. Bottles can be purchased at various winebars and retailers in the Phoenix area also. Before you balk at the price tag, remember that these are very small productions, made locally – by people who care and don’t take shortcuts. These are the beginning stages of soon-tobe world-class wines. Cheers to the rising industry of Arizona wine!
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Spotlight: 20 SPRING 2015
Engel & Völkers Scottsdale@evusa.com 480.596.0001 Engel & Völkers Scottsdale, previously Sandra Wilken Luxury Properties, brings 20+ years of luxury real estate tradition to the Valley. Led by three of the most influential women in Valley real estate; Sandra Wilken, Alexandria Carlson and Serena Churosh, Engel & Völkers Scottsdale combines the expertise and networking power of a large corporation with the personal attention and detail-oriented service of a boutique firm. Engel & Völkers has a network of 554 brokerages in 39 countries, including 51 brokerages in premium markets around North America. Arizona’s most prestigious luxury, golf course communities and high-end condominiums in the Paradise Valley, Scottsdale, Biltmore and Arcadia areas of Phoenix are served by the most successful and respected name in this area’s luxury market, with the backing of a prestigious international brokerage. Engel & Völkers was founded in 1977. Engel & Völkers proved their competence and passion early on and quickly earned a reputation for an unparalleled level of service, highly valued network and strong leadership in the market. In 1990, Engel & Völkers opened their first international shop in Mallorca, Spain. It marked the beginning of a worldwide expansion. They now have offices in major international real estate markets including Dubai, Paris, Rome, Hong Kong, London and New York City. Engel & Völkers entered the North America market, beginning in the United States, in 2006. The Hamburg-based company decided it was important to have a U.S. based team lead the effort in expanding the footprint of the brand in new North American markets and to ensure a consistent quality in the premium level service that was experienced worldwide. The many similarities between the Engel & Völkers brand and Sandra Wilken Luxury Properties created a natural path to a merger in 2013. Sandra Wilken, Serena Churosh and Alexandria Carlson combine to provide the highest level of service
while creating a rock solid base of leadership for the brokerage. Sandra’s achievements as a real estate professional and her consistently high level of service have earned her a place in Engel & Völkers’ most prestigious client service network, known as Private Office. She is one of the few who carry this distinction and is trusted by her fellow Private Office Advisors around the world. With more than 39 years of experience in the Valley, Sandra offers an elegant mix of executive insight and unmatched market knowledge that attracts buyers and sellers locally, nationally and internationally who seek her expertise. Alexandria is one of the youngest people in the local industry to hold the title of managing broker. In 2010, she was recognized by REALTOR ® Magazine as one of “The 50 Realtors under 30 Years Old” to watch in the nation. She brings a strong business sense, sharp negotiating skills, creative marketing strategies and a true passion for real estate to every transaction and client. Serena has been a core member of the team for over 15 years. A lifelong Phoenician, Serena has developed her successful residential real estate career by establishing and maintaining a strong network of satisfied clients. They have all benefited from her exceptional marketing expertise, expansive local knowledge, and her commitment to understanding their unique real estate goals. Sandra, Serena and Alexandria have worked diligently to earn the firm’s standing as Arizona’s most exclusive, boutique luxury real estate firm. Their elaborate network, concierge-style service and famous “Little Black Book” of resources allow Engel & Völkers Scottsdale advisors to sell the right home to the right buyer, at the right price. A devotion to personal attention is key to their philosophy. Whereas many firms can lose sight of the client’s needs in the competitive atmosphere of luxury real estate sales, the Engel & Völkers Scottsdale team is firmly dedicated to giving each client the time and attention he or she deserves. Knowledge is power in the real estate market, and for this reason, Engel & Völkers Scottsdale prides itself on its “Team of Experts” approach to sales. Their staff brings a diverse set of skills to the table, and is intimately acquainted with the neighborhoods it services such as Gainey Ranch, Paradise Valley, North Scottsdale, Silverleaf, and DC Ranch, keeping its finger on the “pulse of the marketplace.” Looking to buy or sell? Contact the Engel & Völkers Scottsdale team to work with the #1 luxury real estate brokerage in the Valley.
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Spirit of the Senses began with an idea: To bring a diverse group of talented people that I knew together to meet, converse and exchange ideas. The time was ripe for a synergy of ideas, thoughts, and creative inspiration. Many people had a hunger for meeting others to learn, express their curiosity, and find a sense of place. The potential for something special to develop from introducing the people I knew and their ideas together seemed both appealing and natural. I wanted to celebrate the Valley and make it a more engaging place to live in. Since it’s beginning in 1983 there have been many people who have contributed to Spirit of the Senses, in all kinds of ways. Most significantly, when my wife Patty Barnes became involved several years later, her partnership and insights diversified and evolved the salons into the potential of what it is today. Over the years Spirit of the Senses has been featured in The Washington Post, The New York Times, and on ABC TV’s Good Morning America. To our knowledge there is not another salon group that is as eclectic in people, place and topics. More than 5,000 conversations have taken place, mostly in living rooms around the Valley. In addition to private homes, private spaces such as FineMark Bank in Gainey Ranch, Taliesin West, Cosanti, and other locations also host salons. The salons have afforded members the experience to be in many neighborhoods and to have the hospitality of gracious hosts. In this way, the salons offer one to feel a part of the whole City. Spirit of the Senses salons are
gatherings for conversations and performances. The wide range includes the arts, the sciences, law, medicine, architecture, politics, literature, history, philosophy, world culture, and more. Patty and I invite the most interesting people we
investigate an idea and follow a thread of imagination to new areas of interest. At the salons people develop friendships. People have the chance to meet face to face, and hear out loud the thoughts they wish to share with people whom they respect. There is a chance to begin to understand different points of view, start creative partnerships, find new passions and have a sense of being part of the larger community. The mix of people change with each topic, each host, and each month. A new appreciation can also be found for the many thinkers, leaders, and talents that converse as presenters. It has been an adventure to take our salon concept to other cities or to their great universities, institutions, homes, and architectural treasures, to visit with extraordinary people. In small groups, we have traveled to the New York City area, Boston, California, and even as far as Florence, Italy to meet with authors, scientists, historians, and other brilliant thinkers at Princeton, Columbia, Harvard, MIT, and Yale. We have visited the California institutions UCLA, UCSD, and Scripps Institution of Oceanography. We have visited the Editors of the Papers of John and Abigail Adams, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin. We have met artists, dealers, curators, and critics of the art world. We have had conversations with some of the leading scientists researching the brain, consciousness, emotion, and memory. And we have learned about the minds of dolphins, whales, octopus, and primates. The salons add a very special component to many people’s lives. You can find information about Spirit of the Senses at www.spiritofthesenses.org or by calling (602) 906-0091.
Curiosity in Action
22
SPRING 2015
By Thomas Houlon
can find to speak about their passions or to express their talents. Presenters from all walks of life engage our members in lively conversations. There are lots of questions. Some of the questions that will be discussed this spring include: Why should we care about the future? How could we see more colors than in the rainbow? What is the relationship of sleep and dreaming? What is it like to be with a political reporter at the State Capitol? What was the relationship of the Civil War with six U.S. Presidents? What can neuroscience inform us about literature. There are also musical performances, conversations at artist studios and architectural visits. At the salons, one thing leads to the next, and there becomes the opportunity to
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Bronson Arroyo
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I trust FineMark with all my needs. “I am so happy to have met Dave from FineMark Sports Management early in my professional career, before any large contracts were signed. He always does what is absolutely best for me. Dave and the team at FineMark are available 24/7 for all of my needs, financial and beyond. I trust them completely.� – Bronson Arroyo
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