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WINTER 2015
5 Hidden Gems of Scottsdale
Cold Nights, Hot Drinks
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
Call 480.400.9115 today to visit and enjoy lunch with us!
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Features: 5 Hidden Gems in Scottsdale.......12 Cold Nights, Hot Drinks..............16
In Every Issue: Real Estate Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Four-Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
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Local Business HighlightS: Gifted Hands Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Reinvigorated Resorts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
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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 6992049. 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.
Letter from the
Editor
Dear reader, Here we are at the end of the year already. Where does the time go?! Probably the most exciting thing to happen since our last issue is the earthquake we felt a few weeks ago. It’s a good reminder about this planet and how much it’s always changing. In fact, did you know that mammoth bones were found when digging to create the lake south of McCormick Parkway? That would have been quite a sight! With beautiful weather and more visitors in town, I thought it would be nice to highlights some hidden gems in Scottsdale. Our feature will introduce you to some lesser known spots that are worth visiting, two of which you can read about in more depth in our online archives. Events abound this time of year and we’re proud to sponsor the Holiday Magic community event for its 3rd straight year. I hope to see you there! And if not, let’s toast to a great year ahead with some fun drinks on page 16. I’m really excited about some coming changes to this publication in 2016... stay tuned. Happy holiday wishes to you and yours!
Alexandra Duemer alexandra@mcrlife.com
SIPS& sounds
Connect with us
@MCRLife
URBAN ELECTRIC
December 2nd
CONCERTS
DEC. 2ND & 9TH
6-8PM / free admission
MARMALADE SKIES December 9th
Drop off donations for Child Crisis Center & Crisis Nursery to any of the charity boxes throughout the center November 1st December 31st. Participating restaurants and shops will be offering incentives for those who donate. Guests are invited to relax under the stars and listen to music while enjoying food from many of the shopping center’s famed restaurants. The event is free to attend; food and drinks are available for purchase.
8787 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85253 SE Corner of Scottsdale Rd. & Doubletree Ranch Rd. facebook.com/theSHOPSgaineyvillage www.theshopsgaineyvillage.com
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Real Estate The potent mixture of great weather and back-to-school freedom for the adults seems to have gotten a lot of buyers off the sidelines. My last several articles have focused on very consistent prices, but after the past quarter, we may have finally broken through that ceiling. When we dive deeper into the numbers, a certain part of McCormick Ranch is responsible for the increase. What happened in the past 90 days This quarter was very strong. Coupled with the previous quarter, we’ve strung together an impressive number of transactions over the past 6 months. August 1 through October 31 showed 57 closed singlefamily home transactions in McCormick Ranch (previous quarter = 60). Average sales price significantly increased to $545,005 (previous quarter = $505,666). Average price per square foot was $219.38 (previous quarter = $213.60). The past quarter was bolstered by 5 sales above $800,000. Importantly, the sweet spot was the $400,000 - $599,999 range where 29 of the 57 sales occurred. More on this below. As of the first week of November, there are 17 homes under contract at an average of $511,000 and $222 per square foot. Where we are today The biggest takeaway from this quarter is the bottom tier of pricing (single family homes under $500,000) is rising very quickly. My last two articles referenced the brisk activity of lower priced homes on the south end of the Ranch, evident by 57% of sales during the previous quarter being under $500,000. This quarter, only 42% of sales were under $500,000. The low end of the pricing spectrum is rising. The south end of McCormick Ranch has made a statement as the latest hotspot for sales activity, remodeling, and appreciation in Central Scottsdale. I’m also seeing 3 times as many online views of homes in this area vs homes north of Via de Ventura. 6
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Last article, I attributed much of this activity to buyers moving up from South Scottsdale. Over the past quarter I’ve learned that buyers are being priced out of Arcadia Lite / Lower Arcadia and making the jump to McCormick Ranch. The market has spoken! The north end of McCormick Ranch is plagued by lack of good inventory and stagnant growth. But when a good home hits the market, the Seller gets a swarm. (A handful of new construction opportunities are coming online soon – contact me for info.) If you’re an owner/occupant that likes to swing a hammer, there is opportunity in homes that need updating. In the condo / townhome market, the end of summer understandably saw only 20 closed sales at just a hair under $200 per square foot and an average of $386,847. 12 are under contract at $219 per square foot and $480,967. I fully expect this market to take off now through the early Spring. In closing Analyzing sales activity reveals the south of McCormick Ranch - below Via De Ventura - is the MVP in our market breakthrough. Massive buyer interest, increasing acquisition costs, and extensive remodeling is raising the low end of pricing. North of Via De Ventura shows some tired inventory but always plenty of buyers for move-in ready homes. If you’ve thought about moving from the South end of the Ranch to the North, now may be your time. Higher prices on your sell and a good price on your buy can equal a massive upgrade in house. (Ask me about a recent case study.) If you have a move-in ready home north of Via de Ventura, the market needs you! The condo / townhome market will catch fire this month and go on another significant run through Spring. Go see an open house! – G.M. Gene Montemore operates Central Scottsdale Real Estate 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 can be reached at gene@CentralScottsdale.com or 480-529-4363.
By Gene Montemore
BY THE
NUMBERS: Number of single-family closings in McCormick Ranch: November 1 – January 31, 2015 (92 days): 35 February 1 – April 30 (89 days): 50 May 1 – July 31 (92 days): 61 August 1 – October 31 (92 days): 57 source: ARMLS
Average sales price: November 1 – January 31, 2015: $518,498 February 1 – April 30: $518,613 May 1 – July 31: $505,666 August 1 – October 31: $545,005 source: ARMLS
Average price per square foot: November 1, 2014 – January 31, 2015: $210 February 1 – April 30: $209 May 1 – July 31: $213.60 August 1 – October 31: $219.38 source: ARMLS McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Spotlight
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The Gifted Hands Boutique is an enterprise of Arizona Centers for Comprehensive Education and Life Skills (ACCEL), a private, nonprofit school for children with special needs, ages 5-22, and adults 18 and over. It is recognized as a leader in the field of Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis. ACCEL’S chic shop, Gifted Hands Boutique is a distinctive boutique featuring exceptional gifts, home décor, clothing and accessories from around the world. Located in the Seville Shopping Center, at the Northeast corner of Indian Bend and Scottsdale Rd., the store is open 10am-6pm Monday – Saturday. As a unique feature, skilled artisans with special needs, create one-of-a-kind items showcased in the store as part of its own ACCEL Collection. Often artisans are seen working in the boutique and by supporting ACCEL’s Gifted Hands Boutique, you have the opportunity to purchase quality gifts while giving the gift of dignity and independence to those with special needs. The ACCEL Collection represents the enterprise and training opportunities designed to teach students with special needs a specific work skill, which provides opportunities to practice behaviors that may be transferred to an employment setting. The student-artisans develop independence and selfconfidence. Some of the skills they develop include customer service, retail sales, inventory, packaging and shipping. In addition, they learn techniques and procedures to create quality merchandise including designer hat making, custom greeting cards, silk screening, embroidery, holiday ornaments, and making their popular dog biscuits, just to name a few items. “Students identify what it is they love doing and even those who can only bead feel like they are part of something special. They enjoy being able to use their creativity and be part of a team,” says Angie. Angela Pacheco has been store manager at Gifted Hands Boutique since it opened in November of 2013. New to their offerings, and just in time for the holidays, is VIP Personalized Shopping. She says, “I love helping our customers come up with unique options for gift giving. And we’ll even wrap it up for you and have it ready to go!” Some of their most popular items include Haute hats (themed for holidays and special occasions), cork trivets and coasters, custom dog dishes and cards. With so many new items that come in every week, it’s not uncommon for groups of ladies to schedule lunch nearby so they can come in and shop together afterwards. Angie says, “There aren’t many neighborhood boutiques like this anymore and we offer a personal connection. We go to all of the big trunk shows every year and even carry some items you’d find at Nordstrom’s, but without the Nordstrom price.” Plus, shoppers know the proceeds here go toward a good cause!
all in your neighborhood Diamondbacks Lounge is the perfect restaurant for casual dining, Happy Hour or a relaxed gathering spot for friends and visitors to make a night of it. Nestled on the shores of Camelback Lake and overlooking the majestic McDowell Mountains, we are just three miles from downtown Scottsdale. Join us for great food, creative cocktails and live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Open daily from 11am to 10pm. Contact us today for more information.
THE McCORMICK 7401 North Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, Arizona 85253 USA T +1 800.243.1332 E scottsdale.us@millenniumhotels.com W www.millenniumhotels.com A MillenniuM Hotel
F +1 480.991.5572
RESIDENT RECIPE
Cauliflower Goat Cheese Gratin INGREDIENTS: 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets 2 cups heavy cream 1/2 pound Monterey Jack cheese, coarsely grated 2 cups grated Parmesan 6 ounces goat cheese, cut into small pieces Salt and freshly ground pepper DIRECTIONS:
Submit one of your favorite recipes to
editor@mcrlife.com
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Layer the cauliflower, heavy cream, and the 3 cheeses in a medium casserole dish. Season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20 to 30 minutes or until the cauliflower is soft and the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serves 6. Recipe can be doubled.
Meet Emma the Brave
“This is our puppy Che. He is a tenyear-old Shih Tzu. brother (Tom) and younger sister (Kate), Emma has spent a lot of As any parent will tell you, seeing your child in pain isChe the enjoys daily adventures through time on the sidelines talking with adults. “She’s more like an adult most gut-wrenching, helpless experience. For Keri Lee, resident Comanche my and age than an 8 year old,” says Lee. With therapy twice a week, and mom of three, this was her daily experience for many years. Park the greenbelts.their Maybe goal this year is to get her doing all of the things a kid her Emma has been battling “something” since she was 18 months one of these age daysusually the does, like run and jump. old. She’d be playing and all of sudden shriek in pain. “We couldn’t go over speed bumps, pour water over her headbunnies in the will wantIntoDecember, Emma went through her 3rd surgery. She was play with him.” - J. thrilled to come back to Cochise for 3rd grade bath or pull her in a play wagon without her Brooks with all of her friends. Lee says, “I can’t say crying,” says Lee. Finally, when she was 3 and enough about the exceptional support we’ve after countless appointments, evaluations, received from the Cochise community. They therapies, doctor visits and tests, Dr. Bearns have an amazing special needs program.” On at Phoenix Children’s Hospital (PCH) Emma’s first Monday back at school she was ordered an MRI that gave us the answer. in a wheelchair and by that Friday she was She had Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma telling her mom she could walk to class on her (tumor = cancer) the length of her back own! inside her spine. These benign tumors often “Carmello is a 6-yearEmma’s favorite thing to do is draw. She affect balance and coordination. She was old apricot Toy Poodle has been picked twice by PCH to be their immediately admitted to PCH to remove the born in the suburbs of featured artist to raise funds with holiday tumor. Chicago! He is a very Through tears, Lee says, “It was a one cards. Keri says, “This year we made our own affectionate, loving dog in a million chance for her to get this. art and helped to raise funds for her therapy that has brought great The doctors hadn’t even considered the treatment and medical bills at various events.” joy to our family. Here possibility. But you have to keep pushing… If you’d like to learn more, please visit ‘Emma Send us a picture he is in his new jogging that’s been my lesson.” the Brave Will Walk Again’ on facebook. To outfit.” – E. Pinzon Unfortunately, the tumor came back two help families in need, Lee also recommends Please email years later at which time Emma endured donating to the United HealthCare Children’s editor@mcrlife.com 16-months of chemotherapy. With a twin Foundation (www.UHCFF.org).
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4 Scottsdale hotspots extend far beyond shopping destinations, resorts, golf and spas. Here, we’re highlighting several special, lesser-known attractions that deserve some recognition.
Hidden Gems in Scottsdale by Arizona Oddities 12
FALL 2015
Singh Farms - 8900 E. Thomas Rd. – Just off the 101 and Thomas, a line of unassuming trees encases an oasis of sorts from the surrounding dirt plots, pavement and traffic. A charming farm with organic fruits, veggies, flora and fauna is literally steps from the highway – but seemingly in the middle of nowhere upon entering. Come on Saturdays between 9am and 2pm to meander through the gardens, sip on a freshly squeezed juice and stock up on seasonal produce. Owners Lee and Ken Singh not only provide the Valley with top-notch local food, but they also take pride in educating the public on the traditions of nutritious food. Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/singhfarms
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5 Cosanti/Paolo Soleri Studio - 6433 E. Doubletree Rd. – Famed architect, artist and philosopher Paolo Soleri is known for many endeavors and art forms, including a particular style of bronze bells, which can range from about $100 to more than $150,000. You can see how these bells are created at his personal studios in Paradise Valley, just off Doubletree. Catch live demos and tour the facility where he lived and worked. Learn more: http://arcosanti.org/cosanti
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Cattle Track Arts Compound - 6105 N. Cattle Track Rd. – Discretely located within a residential neighborhood near Miller and McDonald, this 13-acre property brings you back to a time when this region was primarily open space and dirt roads, earning its name as a pit stop for ranchers moving cattle north. Old West structures now house artist studios, a blacksmith shop, gallery and two old-fashioned letterpresses. Visit 10am to 5pm Monday through Saturday to catch artists in action. Learn more: (480) 607-3658.
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Los Cedros - 8700 E. Black Mountain Rd. – Many folks wouldn’t think of a performance horse training facility as a destination. Yet most facilities of this nature don’t double as an ancient Moroccan citadel, complete with an authentic Moroccan throne room. This venue is open to the public to peruse, or to rent for corporate events. Take a quiet stroll through the gardens or stables. You may even catch a horse swimming in a special exercise pool. (And yes, apparently horses can swim.) Learn more: http://www.loscedros.com
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Scottsdale Xeriscape Garden - 5401 N. Hayden Rd. – Hidden from the street, the 5½-acre garden boasts more than 7,000 plants and 200 species, according to the city. An art piece, “Terraced Cascade,” by artist Lorna Jordan is designed to harvest storm water. The garden is free and open to the public from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day. Parking is off Hayden Road south of McDonald Drive.
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Travels Through
Fantasyland By H. Alton Jones I hate to brag, but I’m always surprised by how few of my neighbors know I won a Pulitzer Prize. It’s not that I want to keep it a secret; I just don’t feel right making a big deal about it. The other issue is that I never won the Pulitzer. (I did win a 14 FALL 2015
coloring contest when I was in fourth grade, but that’s another column.) What’s the harm? I have a little fun with my fantasy. Who in Scottsdale doesn’t indulge in an occasional trek through their own corner of fantasyland? How many of us are mortgaged to the hilt so we can buy cars and houses that make us look like we don’t need the money we had to borrow in the first place? How many of us visit cosmetic “specialists” so we can look like someone other than who we really are? Our dreams are built with the spare parts we collect on our travels through fantasyland. And it’s with our dreams we build bridges from the past into the future. When I met Naomi, I was fascinated by her world. Admittedly, she hadn’t won a Pulitzer like I hadn’t, but as her story unfolded, I was transfixed by the intrigue she carried along in her shadow. Her father worked on a banana boat in Central America when she was a little girl. What a great story! It got better. She played James Garner’s secretary on the Rockford Files TV series. From banana boats to the Rockford files. All I had was an imaginary Pulitzer to my name. It turned out she was the one creatively challenged. All of her stories and more (to which I’m sworn to secrecy) were true. The first time Naomi and Jerry came to our home for dinner, she brought a gift, a four-CD set entitled “Jerry Riopelle - The Works – 1970–2000”. “What the hell is this?” I mused. From banana boats and James Garner to a rock star husband? Was this the same Jerry Riopelle who packed the Celebrity Theater in Phoenix for a rousing New Year’s concert every year? Listening to the CDs was an epiphany. Jerry is an incredibly talented song writer, singer and poet. Early in his career he was hired as a song writer by the famed Phil Spector. His songs have been covered by artists like Brewer and Shipley, Kenny Loggins, Meat Loaf, Leon Russell and countless others. He met Naomi when he was playing at the epicenter of the world of rock and roll in the seventies, the Troubadour in Hollywood. I learned Jerry would be playing his New Year’s concert at the Talking Stick Resort last year. I scrambled for tickets. I wanted to see how this soft spoken, humble poet dealt with a packed ballroom. He played the crowd like a virtuoso bringing its emotional level gradually toward a frenzied pitch. After getting to know the Riopelles better, I wondered what separated Jerry from the likes of The Rolling Stones. In a word, it’s humility. Jerry and Naomi are committed to family and weren’t willing to endure the hardships of constant touring. They weren’t willing to exchange happiness for greater fame. How many rock stars have the wisdom to make such a courageous decision? But poets sometimes see things invisible to the rest of us. For years, the Riopelles have split their time between their house in Hawaii and their home in McCormick Ranch. Jerry is an esteemed member of The Arizona Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. With Jerry’s unparalleled musical history, Naomi’s work on The Rockford Files and roots leading back to Central American banana boats, the Riopelles are unquestionably some of the most interesting residents of McCormick Ranch. But big deal! I’ll bet they’ve never won a Pulitzer. Jerry Riopelle will be presenting his New Year’s performance at Talking Stick Resort on January 2nd. http://www.talkingstickresort.com/jerryriopelle.aspx McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Restaurant: Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar at the TPC Scottsdale Cocktail: House-Made Hot Buttered Rum Cocktail Description: Aged rum combined with a top secret formula including all spice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and - yes – actual butter Cost: $14 Restaurant: Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill Cocktail: Salted Caramel Moroccan Coffee Description: A perfect blend of 151 Rum, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Irish cream, buttershots, caramel, coffee and Kosher salt Cost: $8
Cold Nights Restaurant: La Hacienda at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Cocktail: Tequila Navidad Coffee Cocktail Description: Vanilla beans, cloves, orange peels and even raisins are infused overnight into Silver tequila and mixed with fresh coffee for a dose of caffeine – and a special kick Cost: $14
Restaurant: Barrio Queen Cocktail: El Chiapaneco Coffee Cocktail Description: Patron XO café dark chocolate with Godiva white chocolate liqueur, horchata and Chiapas coffee Cost: $9
Restaurant: 32 Shea Cocktail: Erótico Coco Caliente Cocktail Description: A ménage à trois of hot creamy chocolate, orgasmic smoky Mezcal Tequila, a pleasurable touch of spiciness topped with an erotic spread of whipped cream. Cost: $10
Restaurant: Waltz & Weiser Whiskey Bar & Cantina at the Westin Kierland Resort Cocktail Name: The Nutty Scotsman Cocktail Description: With Baileys, Frangelico, whipped cream and a cinnamon stick, this wintery coffee cocktail pairs perfectly with the resort’s bagpiper performance each evening and its 3-D Holiday Light Show offered nightly Cost: $10 (the bagpiper performance and holiday light show are free)
Hot Drinks
The temperatures outside may be getting a bit chilly, but things are just heating up at several local restaurants. From spiked coffees to adult hot chocolates, here is a rundown of some of the Valley’s best hot cocktails – and some of the most interesting seasonal ingredients – this holiday season:
Restaurant: Bourbon Steak at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Cocktail: Green Chaud Cocktail Description: A playful take on hot cocoa with a healthy dose of white chocolate chips and green chartreuse liquor topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Cost: $14 Restaurant: The Market Restaurant and Bar by Jennifer’s Cocktail: The Mood Swing Cocktail Description: Local Danzeisen Dairy chocolate milk mixed with just the right amount of Chambord and Espresso Liqueurs Cost: $12
Reinvigorated Resorts Local Staycation Staples Freshen Up By Alison Bailin Today, Scottsdale boasts more than 70 major hotels and resorts – which equates to nearly 10,000 rooms just itching for new and returning guests every single night. “Simply being located in the northeast Valley is no longer enough,” said Susan Baer, area director of sales and marketing for the Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas and DoubleTree Resort Paradise Valley Scottsdale Hotel DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Paradise Valley Scottsdale, respectively. “Today, hotels and resorts in the area have to continuously evolve to meet the needs of our golfloving snowbirds, spa staycationers, luxury business travelers and everyone in between.” Many hotels and resorts are doing just that, according to Baer, by focusing on fabulous facelifts, revitalizing restaurant options on-site, re-modeling rooms and expanding event space offerings. Here is a look at two of the most recent resort renovations: Hilton Scottsdale Resort and Villas The Hilton Scottsdale Resort and & Villa’s renovation – topping $5 million – focused on both its main resort property as well as its beloved Villas property located adjacent to the resort, which has been a long-time destination of choice for spring break and spring training travelers as well as men’s golf weekends given their spacious accommodations and secluded spaces. The most striking element of the renovation, which will reach completion in January, are the glass doors that encompass the lobby, bar and restaurant spaces. The resort has done away with basic windows covering, refitting the entire building with retractable glass from floor to ceiling, which allows virtually every inch of the property to transform into an indoor-outdoor open floor plan with a seamless transition from the lobby to the newly expanded patio and even pool area. Speaking of the pool area, no expense was spared in working with a designer to update every element of the space – from fabrics to cabanas to high-end fire pits with custom seating. The drink menu at the pool as well as the rest of the resort also got an update – now boasting cutting-edge cocktails including “The New 18 WINTER 2015
Fashioned,” “Acai Margarita” and a clever twist on an adult Arnold Palmer. And while the name of the resort’s signature restaurant, BlueFire Grille, remained the same, new head chef Patrick Doyle developed a wholly new menu, with a nod to Arizona’s melting pot of heritages, especially our Mexican influences and Midwestern American “snowbird” comfort foods. BlueFire also tripled its bar area and patio to allow for guests and locals space to enjoy the perfect Arizona weather while sipping and drinking the night away. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess The Princess recently completed a five-year, $60 million renovation project that brought many new features, notably the Palomino Conference Center, which added more than 52,000-square-feet of indoor meeting space to the property, and Toro Latin Restaurant & Rum Bar by Richard Sandoval. “Overlooking the 18th green of the celebrated and newly renovated TPC Stadium Course, Toro boasts one of America’s only ‘suviche’ bars, which offers both sushi and ceviche, as well as wok dishes, small plates for sharing, grilled entrees and an impressive selection of 111 types of rum,” said Valerie Lee, communications director for the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. The resort also added a lower patio and fire pit area to Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak on property; updated the retail and coffee market; launched a new three-meal restaurant concept, Ironwood American Kitchen, and gave the entire resort a “new dress,” painting the exterior’s sunset pink to a fresh, more contemporary look of off-white, with slate and gray trim. “And we aren’t done yet,” teases Lee, whose team at the Princess recently began yet another phase on renovation. “We will also be adding more than 100 new guest rooms – including three luxury suites, a Western town event venue and a new pool, Sunset Beach.” The 7,000-square-foot Sunset Beach, which will be the largest of the six pools at the Princess, will have a zero-depth entry with an expansive white sand beach and splash pad water experience.
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Freedom on Christmas Eve By Ilona Hargitay
It was December of 1956. The smell of the gunpowder was in the air. My homeland had suffered destruction and thousands had lost their lives. The Hungarian people’s revolution had failed. Everything seemed grey and somber. We had no food and everyone stood in long lines for milk and bread. With my husband and our 5-monthold baby girl, we were preparing to flee the sad and seemingly hopeless future in our country. We had heard that the Russians intended to kill anyone who had participated in the fighting and I feared for my husband’s life. We joined thousands
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of others and departed in heavy winter storms with our baby, hoping to find freedom in Austria. We could carry no
possessions with us, except for one baby bottle and a few diapers. Traveling by bus and train we approached the Western border of Hungary. This was quite dangerous because Russian soldiers were stationed everywhere to stop travelers heading anywhere near the Austrian border. A permit was necessary for such travel and, of course, we did not have one. Once aboard the crowded train, all of the passengers surrendered personal items to bribe the conductor of the train to stop the train near the border. Only the distant lights reflecting on the freshly fallen snow helped guide us through the darkness by foot We continued our journey only in the night, sleeping in haystacks and barns during the day. The strain of walking through such deep snow started to weaken me. At times I pleaded with my husband to just leave me in the snow to die. But he urged me to continue, always saying that the border was getting much closer. Freedom was near. At last, we could see distant lights and even hear foreign voices in the night. They were Austrians awaiting the refugees. We were transported by car to a military building. We were all freezing; the baby had icicles under her nostrils. They took us to a large room with straw covered floor where they served hot chocolate to hundreds of refugees. Far away in the corner of the room stood a beautifully lit Christmas tree. By this time we had lost track of the days, so I turned to someone to ask what day it was. I was told that it was Christmas Eve. Every Christmas we remember this journey and we thank God that we made it safely to freedom and several months after to our new homeland, the United States of America.
Now Take a Breath by Kerry Burki
We are in the time of year when we relinquish control, either joyfully or begrudgingly, throughout the holiday season. Our schedules are busier, travel is usually involved plus extra time spent with family. Then we try to regain that control again in January with resolutions and promises. Sometimes by February we are truly frustrated by how little in our lives we have control over. I am here to bring you some good news. There is one thing you can control. It is your breath. Surprise! When everything seems out of your control, like delayed flights, snarky relatives and daunting resolutions, you can take comfort in knowing that you can control the next breath you take. Now how you take that next breath is very important. A huge gasp through your open mouth will not ease your nerves. Short little inhales will not help you feel like you can regain control. Even a deep breath that fills your chest is not the answer. Let me share some tips: First begin to breathe only through your nose. Allow the breath to go past the chest. See if you can get your ribcage to expand or even the belly. Let your exhale be nice and long. Repeat. Starting to feel better? Yes? Great! Want to make it even better?
• Take at least 5 deep breaths • Close your eyes • Count to 4 as you inhale and again as you exhale (make the count shorter or longer depending on your lung capacity) • Try to let go of other thoughts • Focus on the sound of your breath Ahhhhh. It feels good to have taken this time for yourself, doesn’t it? Especially when it gives you so many benefits such as releasing tension, improving posture and mood, strengthening your immune system and increasing energy. My favorite part is the fact that this can be done anywhere. On an airplane, in bed, or at a relatives house. You can literally pause and take 3 deep breaths with your hand on a doorknob before you enter a meeting, a party or work for an instant uplift. This simple practice will have you handling the holidays and entering 2016 with a bit more ease and a lot less tension. Cheers to that! If you liked learning about how to add simple breathing techniques to your day then check out my new yoga resource, Slow Down To Move Forward. It is filled with yoga, breathing, intention setting and relaxation techniques. The best part is that for every purchase made I donate one to a single parent with cancer in Arizona through Singleton Moms. Learn more at www.kerryburki. com. Also, look for more yoga tips in the next issue of Kerry magazine coming out December 1st.
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Upcoming Events: Holiday Lights at McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park Take a train ride through festive holiday lights and displays turning the Railroad Park into a winter wonderland. Train rides are $4 and carousel rides are $2 with children younger than 3 riding with a paying adult. Holiday Lights runs 6:30 to 9 p.m. starting midDecember through Jan. 2. The park is at 7301 E. Indian Bend Road. For more information, call 480-312-2312 or visit therailroadpark.com. We’re rounding up your Christmas trees Jan. 4-9 Scottsdale’s citywide Christmas Tree Roundup takes place Jan. 4-9. If you have residential collection service, please have your Christmas tree curbside by 5 a.m. on the morning of Monday, Jan. 4. Remove stands, lights and ornaments. Artificial trees will not be collected. If you miss the roundup or do not have residential collection services, you can drop off your tree between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9, at Scottsdale Ranch Park, 10400 E. Via Linda, or Eldorado Park, 2311 N. Miller Road. All trees collected will be turned into compost or mulch. For more information, call 480-312-5600. Experience music and culture of original residents at Native Trails, Jan. 9-March 31 Native Trails is a free outdoor festival celebrating the Native American cultures of the Southwest through song and dance. Each event brings together traditional instruments, colorful dances and authentic attire to share the stories of Southwest tribes. Audiences enjoy performances such as the Southwest horse dance, inter-tribal pow-wow dancing, world class hoop dancing and the participatory round dance. Native Trails also features American Indian artisans selling specialty items such as jewelry, baskets, flutes and paintings, as well as light snacks and beverages. Guests are invited to bring blankets, lawn chairs or picnic baskets. This free series takes place from noon to 1 p.m. most Thursdays and Saturdays Jan. 9 through March 31, on the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall. Get details at ScottsdaleNativeTrails.com. Sunday A’Fair mini-festivals begin Jan. 10 on the Civic Center Mall Sunday A’Fair features free outdoor concerts by the Valley’s top musicians, an arts-and-crafts market and fun activities for children and families. The free afternoon concerts take place from noon to 4 p.m. most Sundays starting Jan. 10 through April 3, on the Civic Center Mall. Enjoy delicious food from the 22
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grill and drinks available for purchase, docent-led sculpture tours in the park and free admission to Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. Visit ScottsdalePerformingArts.org for more information. Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon Series runs Jan. 16-17 The Rock ‘N’ Roll Marathon Series makes running fun with options for all fitness levels. Known for live music and excitement, the Rock ‘N’ Marathon is a relatively flat course that runs through three of the Southwest’s most scenic cities – Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. In addition to the fulland half-marathons, this running series also offers a 5K, 10K and Kids’ Race. All courses are slightly different but no matter the distance, participants get to enjoy the beautiful scenery, live entertainment and cheering fans along the course. Get details at Arizona.Competitor.com. Protect your identity by attending “Shred It” event, Jan. 23 Don’t be a potential victim of identity theft. Bring your personal and/or commercial documents to be shredded from 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 23, in the Wal-Mart parking lot, 15355 N. Northsight Blvd. A $3 per box donation is suggested. Mark your calendars for more “Shred It” events: Feb. 27, March 26, April 30 and May 28. Email craigcraig704@gmail.com for more information. Fight roof rats -- citrus drop off available beginning Jan. 23 Scottsdale and Phoenix Arcadia residents are joining forces to remove citrus from area properties to help control the roof rat population. The Citrus Dropoff Program runs Saturdays starting Jan. 23 and runs through March 26. Residents are encouraged to drop off edible fruit from 8 a.m. to noon, and commercial drop off will be from 8 to 10 a.m. Individuals are no longer able to pick up fruit. The program will be at the Elk’s BPOE Scottsdale Lodge parking lot, 6398 E. Oak St. For more information, visit: www.roofrat.net. Hashknife Pony Express gallops into Downtown Scottsdale Jan. 29 Celebrate the Old West and a Scottsdale tradition at high noon Friday, Jan. 29, when the Hashknife Pony Express thunders into town. More than two dozen members of the Navajo County Sheriff ’s Posse participate in this 200-mile horseback trek. They start from Holbrook and end up at the Hashknife sculpture on Scottsdale’s Marshall Way Bridge, delivering 20,000 letters by horseback. For more information, go to HashknifePonyExpress.com.
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