Spring_2012 by eClaire Publishing

Get Gardening!

SPRING 2012

Charity Spotlight: Gabrielâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Angels

Hop on the

Hospitality

Trolley

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9000 East San Victor Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85258

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Contents

Features:

In Every Issue:

Get Gardening!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Market Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Four Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Local Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Charity Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Local Business HighlightS:

Hop on the Hospitality Trolley. . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Get Wet Pools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Dailey Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

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.

SPRING 2012

Letter from the

Editor

Dear reader, I know, I’ve said it before, but this really is the best time of year in Arizona. You can feel Spring in the air as early as late January and it’s perpetuated by outdoor activities, fantastic events, fresh citrus off our trees and the occasional cool breeze to remind us just how lucky we are. Hard to believe that I started this community publication five years ago already! It is a labor of love and I’m so grateful for the wonderful experiences and people I’ve met because of it. A friend recently asked how I get ideas for the articles I choose. Usually I have a running list of interesting topics for the area when I’m driving around or reading the paper, but occasionally (like in this issue), the main feature didn’t come to being until the last minute. Because we are all so busy with our everyday lives, many of us don’t know, or take advantage of, all the wonderful services that Scottsdale provides us. I hope you’ll enjoy the article about the Scottsdale Trolley system and maybe take your visitors on a ride this month. We should also note that February marked Arizona’s Centennial. State historian and local resident, Marshall Trimble, was kind enough to contribute some interesting facts about our great State. McCormick Ranch will also turn 40 this year! If you’ve been here long enough to see our community change from being on the edge of town to the middle of town, I hope you’ll consider sending in old pictures or stories to share with our readers! Sincerely,

Alexandra Duemer alexandra@mcrlife.com

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A Real View on Real Estate by John Wake The data for all of 2011 is now in, so I looked at homes sold in McCormick Ranch that were not short sales or bankowned properties. Looking at these “normal” sales will give you an idea of where prices are today if you’re planning to sell your McCormick Ranch single family home and you aren’t planning to do a short sale. The average price in McCormick Ranch for normal home sales has been flat for the last 5 quarters, since the fall of 2010, at about $162 per square foot. If your home is average for McCormick Ranch, then $162 per square foot is a good ballpark estimate. By the way, to get a more refined ballpark estimate of your home’s value, look at the prices of homes recently sold in your neighborhood and take into account any major improvements added in recent years, especially to the kitchen and baths. Whether it has a resort-style backyard, whether it’s located on a lake, golf course or park, and so on, also will affect the price. The value per square foot would be less than average if the home is “original” with few updates or it backs to a noisy road like Hayden Road. Also be aware that you should take into account that within McCormick Ranch smaller homes tend to sell for more per square foot than larger homes and one-story homes tend to sell for more per square foot than two-story homes. To give you an idea of where we’ve come from, in 2006 the average sale price was $260 per square foot in McCormick Ranch and there were no bank-owned or short-sale homes sold. Only one bank-owned home sold and no short sales sold as recently as 2007. Four years later, in 2011, 37 percent of the homes sold in McCormick Ranch were bankowned or short sales. From the peak in 2006, the average home price in McCormick Ranch fell $98 per square foot. That means that if your home has 2,000 square feet, your home lost close to $200,000 in value, from $520,000 at the peak in 2006 to $324,000 in 2011. We’ve all just lived through the greatest real estate bust in American history. It created a lot of pain. I’m sure many families will look back decades from now and still remember the Great Real Estate Bust as the worst time of their lives. Now, however, I’m feeling very hopeful because the average home price in McCormick Ranch has been flat for more than a year. This could be the bottom. Without a doubt the powerful downward momentum in home prices we saw in 2008 and 2009 has been broken and if we see any future 6 SPRING 2012

Beginning Junior Tennis Clinics!

price declines, I think they will be small. Hopefully, we’ll be able to look back in a year or two and say that 2011 was the bottom for home prices in McCormick Ranch. My biggest worry about home prices is that the number of homes sold in 2011 was a lot less than ten years ago. Total single family home sales in McCormick Ranch increased 45% from 2009 to 2011 and that’s great. The problem is that home sales would still have to increase by about one-third above the 2011 level to be where they were in 2000, 2001 and 2002. As the economy improves, however, the number of homes sold in McCormick Ranch could increase without home prices falling any further, and the economy is definitely improving. For example, think of all the empty stores in The Pavilions a year or two ago that now have tenants. I’m very happy to report that the average price of normal home sales in McCormick Ranch has been flat since the autumn of 2010, and I’m very much looking forward to the day that I will be able to report in McCormick Ranch Lifestyle magazine that your McCormick Ranch home has appreciated in value. It could be soon. You can follow the latest McCormick Ranch homes sales at John’s website McCormickRanchRealEstateHomes.com. John Wake has lived in McCormick Ranch since 1998 and is an Associate Broker with HomeSmart Real Estate. John was born and raised in Phoenix, and lived in Florida, Washington D.C. and Paris before returning to Arizona to raise a family. His wife Liz is from Iowa and works at ASU. Their two sons, John and Chris, graduated from Saguaro High School and both are now in the Barrett Honors College at ASU studying Bio-Engineering. Peppy is their friendly female, 7 year old, 9 pound, red and white Papillion.

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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle

Get Wet Pool Service 480-338-9086

getwetpoolservice.com Deb Long has gone from managing a group of thousands of people in the corporate world to leading a staff of three in her own company, Get Wet Pool Service. And she couldn't be happier. A few years ago, a plan for semi-retirement and a health scare led Long, a Six Sigma Black Belt, to leave her highprofile career with Waste Management, Inc., and purchase a small pool route of about 20 customers. That was two years ago. Today that route has grown to include 220 customers and three routes in the Scottsdale area. The company also services surrounding Northeast Valley areas including Carefree and Cave Creek, Desert Ridge, and Fountain Hills. Get Wet offers a full range of services beyond weekly pool service including general pool clean-up, filter cleaning, acid wash, tile clean-up, testing and balancing water chemicals, equipment inspection, regular preventative maintenance, and any and all pool services and repairs. Long says a service-based company like hers has a difficult time differentiating itself from others like it. Her company does so by offering an unparalleled level of customer service, and she and her staff of two technicians and one repairman find great satisfaction in going the extra mile for her clients. "We don't want our customers to think about their pool unless they are enjoying it." 8

SPRING 2012

She adds that communication is key when it comes to ensuring happy clients. She feels it is important to keep her clients in the loop about early warning signs of pool problems, updates on when filter cleanings are recommended, and more. She sends out a quarterly newsletter and keeps her clients updated on service advisories via email as well. Long and her staff build rapport with each client based on trust and peace of mind that the job will be completed to exceed the clients' expectations. She finds great pleasure in being able to work with her clients to give them the best deal while going above and beyond to solve all their pool service and repair needs. As Long reflects on the challenges and rewards of her business, she feels they often intersect one another. "When I was working for a big company, I was not a hands-on person. I was a lot more removed." Long says now she is truly hands on, but she is able to see a project through from start to finish and enjoy immediately the fruits of her labor. She added, "Today I started my day with an upset customer and a project initially estimated for three hours that ended up taking nine. But it ended with a customer so thrilled she was inviting me in for dinner." According to Long, she wouldn't trade that customer satisfaction for anything. Spending her days out in the Scottsdale sun aren't too bad either.

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Four Legged

Ranchers Send us a picture of your pet! Please email

editor@mcrlife.com

Bailey is the [Black, white, Tan] Tri-color hound, 10 yrs old; Maggie is the Black & Tan Coonhound, approx. 9 years old. These may be 2 of the most spoiled pound pups in the neighborhood- major VIPs! They warm our hearts and make us laugh every moment we have with them & have enriched our lives beyond belief. They love to get their photos taken & every year get dressed up for our annual XMAS card photo. Over the years, the dogs have adopted our healthy habits, & eat specially prepared raw dog food and LOVE chopped vegetables, especially organic heirloom tomatoes & carrots, which they’ve been known to steal off the counter when left alone!

Bella Luna Tic von Baskerville is a Borador, a Labrador-Border Collie mix. We rescued her in April 2011. We walk, run, stroll and sniff about 50 miles a week on the paths of the Ranch. Sometimes Ms. Von Baskerville is too smart for our own good.

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Resident Recipe submitted by Michelle Arena This is one of my favorite EASY desserts that looks impressive. It’s a no bake cheesecake that is light and fluffy. Would be perfect for an Easter Buffet.

Dreamy Cheesecake Ingredients • 3 (3 ounce) packages of your favorite ladyfingers • 20 ounces softened cream cheese • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract • 1 cup sugar • 2 cups heaving whipping cream • 2 (21 ounce) can of pie filling (cherry, blueberry or pineapple will work best) Directions

Place ladyfingers on the bottom and around the entire edge of a 9-inch springform pan. In a medium bowl - Whip heavy cream until firm peaks form. In a large bowl - Beat together cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Spoon 1/2 of the cream cheese mixture over the bottom layer of ladyfingers top with light layer of pie filling. Add remaining lady fingers in a single layer and top with remaining cream cheese mixture and pie filling. Chill for at least 4 hours before serving. Remove springform ring and place on a cake pedestal to impress.

Have a tasty recipe you’d like to share? Please email editor@mcrlife.com McCormick Ranch Lifestyle

Hop on the

Hospitality

Trolley

Last year’s Hospitality Trolley test was a success! The trolley hit the streets just after Christmas, in time to woo out-oftown visitors. The free trolley service, which stops at Scottsdale resorts, restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping centers, will run through Scottsdale’s peak events season and end service March 31. Available between the hours of 10am10pm, there are several routes to choose from, depending on your destination. It is a great way to park once, or leave your hotel for the day, and enjoy everything Scottsdale has to offer during this beautiful time of year. Some History (provided by the City of Scottsdale) In the late 1970’s a minor league baseball player for the Cincinnati Reds from Ogunquit Maine, Scott Merrill, saw his first trolley and fell in love with it while at spring training in Winter Park, Florida. In the early summer of 1980 he purchased a trolley built by Bob McFadden in Winter Haven, Fl, and returned with it to his hometown in, Maine. There he started a 12 SPRING 2012

trolley business using advertisements on his vehicles to fund the operations. His father Carl was an architectural engineer, who began designing trolleys. They engaged the services of Stillman Bradish (a machinist with a garage in Ogunquit) to manufacture Carl’s design. Soon Scott and his father formed a Trolley manufacturing and operating company they named Molly Corporation, after Carl’s granddaughter Mollie. Mollie the Trolley vehicles were soon sold to many other cities including, San Diego, CA; Kansas City, KS; Albuquerque, NM; Stowe, MA; Cooperstown, NY; and Wells and Ogunquit, ME. Responding to a job offer for a local TV station, Scott moved to Scottsdale later in 1980 and wanted to bring his trolleys with him. He made a video to show local businesses his idea to bring visitors from the resorts into Downtown to shop and dine. He showed it to members of the Chamber of Commerce. He soon garnered the support of downtown merchants in Old Town, Fashion Square,

and 5th Avenue (Saba’s, Dillard’s, Porters, Goldwater’s, and Trader Vic’s to name a few). He sold them advertising on the vehicles, and by the time he was ready to drive the trolleys from Maine to Scottsdale, he had sold enough advertising to sustain operations in the winter tourist season of 1980. In 1986 the Merrill’s sold their interest in the Mollie the Trolley Company to Stillman Bradish who is still manufacturing trolley vehicles today in Ogunquit. In 1989 Bradish sold the Scottsdale Trolley portion of the business to Michael Thomas of Boston. Thomas, an experienced trolley operator in Boston, tried a new and different business model – trolley tours. His approach was unsuccessful and, in 1990 they left Arizona to return to their Boston operations. In 1991 the Scottsdale City Council voted to subsidize the service with a $50,000 contribution to the Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber conducted a national search to find someone to operate the service. They chose Margaret

Dunn (who had previously been a trolley driver for Scott Merrill while a college student at ASU). Margaret brought her experience and her brand name with her from a trolley business she started in Omaha, Nebraska - Ollie the Trolley. She quickly purchased four vehicles from the City of Albuquerque and brought them with her to begin providing Trolley service in Scottsdale - once again bringing visitors from the resorts into downtown to shop and dine. In November 1997, based on the City auditor’s recommendation, Scottsdale began directly contracting for the service instead of working through the Chamber. The Trolley was renamed Scottsdale Round-Up to differentiate it from Ollie the Trolley, which Dunn Transportation also used for private for-hire trolley services. In 2003, the City purchased seven new trolley vehicles for the Downtown service and operated them on a bidirectional route loop. A separate seasonal Resort Route continued to be operated; however, it was funded by the resorts themselves.

By 2006, trolley service was expanded with a second “Neighborhood” route and the purchase of nine addi-

tional vehicles. The new route, which was expanded again in 2008, connects neighborhoods in Southern Scottsdale to the Downtown by providing service between Loloma and the Granite Reef Senior Center, and provides a transfer to the Downtown Route at Loloma. Today, the Neighborhood Route has the highest ridership per mile of any route in the Valley Metro service area. In 2010, bus Route 76 was changed to a quasi trolley route operation and continues to serve the Miller Road corridor

between McDonald Rd. and McKellips Rd. The service is provided using six 29-foot low-floor transit buses that have been vinyl wrapped to look like a trolley vehicle. Madeline Clemann, Transit Supervisor for the City of Scottsdale, has worked in transit for nearly 30 years. She says, “We weren’t sure how people would react to the busses, but they have been surprisingly supportive of the new diesel hybrid model versus a traditional trolley. And I’ve been very encouraged to see so many local companies want to advertise and support our effort.” In 2013, the City will transition to additional low-floor busses, which are handicap accessible and easier to maintain. The vintage trolley-inspired look will include brass railings, wood detail, slatted seats and open windows. In an effort to keep Scottsdale green, the vehicles will also be diesel hybrid, improving sound levels for travelers. Seating will also increase to accommodate 35 people as ridership continues to rise. For more information, please visit http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/trolley.

Sowing Seeds for Spring Planting By Carol Stuttard

Master Gardener, President of Scottsdale Community Garden Club and Garden Coach It is very easy to start seeds at home and one of the great advantages is it allows you to grow plants – especially vegetables and flowers - that are not usually available at nurseries. It is also a lot cheaper. So – how do you start seeds at home? First you need a container, a pint clamshell (plastic lidded container) from some strawberries etc, will work very well. It is the right size, depth and has a nice plastic lid that will keep in the moisture for the germinating seeds. Wash out the container and line the base with some paper towel, just to cover the holes and stop the compost from falling out. Fill the container nearly to the top with potting compost and firm it down with the back of your hand. Seeds like firm soil to grow in otherwise the smaller seeds may slip down too deep into the compost and be too far down in the soil to grow. Do not use peat moss or other such seed starting blocks, as once peat has been wet and then allowed to dry out, it is almost impossible to get it moist again. Sprinkle the seeds evenly across the top of the surface, then cover with about 1/8 to ? inch of compost, the smaller the seed, the thinner the layer of compost you will need to put on top of the seeds. Water thoroughly so that the compost is moist but not saturated. Place in a warm place in the house somewhere, you are aiming for temps between 65 – 75 degrees. Watch for germination and do not allow the compost to dry out, you are aiming for continual moist or damp soil. (If the seeds 14 SPRING 2012

start to germinate and the compost dries, out they will die and that will be it, they will not come back to life.) Once your seedlings appear they will need to be moved to an area of light, outside but not in full sun is best. If you do keep them in the house on a sunny window ledge, you will have to turn the container every day as the seedlings may get “leggy” as they are drawn to the light. Again, do not allow compost to dry out. When the seedlings start to look like little plants, they will need to be moved on into individual small pots, this is called “pricking out”. This is essential for good root development. The small plant is transferred into an individual container that is already filled with compost, into the middle of which, you will need to make a small hole roughly about 1” deep ( depends on the size of the seedling ) - using your little finger or a pencil to make the hole will work well. Pricking out involves gently easing the roots of the individual plantlet out of the container compost (usually with a pencil or popsicle stick ) while also gently holding onto the leaves, thus separating it from all the other seedlings. Always handle the seedlings by the leaf, never the stem, which is easily damaged. The small plant is then placed into the previously made hole in the new container, the soil is then gently firmed around the stem of the baby plant – just below the first set of leaves, and finally watered in. If you have many seedlings, then only select the largest and healthiest ones to pot on. You can discard or even pass on to friends, any extra seedlings you do not need. Now enjoy the fruits of your labors - either edible or floral! If you have gardening questions, please contact carolstuttard@cox.net.

In the News New additions at The SHOPS at Gainey Village:

Jerry Tingle and Chef Brian Feirstein, the valley’s talented chef/general manager duo, announce the opening of a vibrant new restaurant called Cask 63, American Eatery and Wine Bar (replacing Bloom). Comfortably contemporary space, eclectic American cuisine and a distinctive wine menu defines the much-anticipated new eatery. The story of how Cask 63 was named speaks to its wine bar pedigree as well as it being a true collaborative effort among two of the hottest restaurateurs in the Valley. Jerry Tingle is a name well known in the Valley as a master restaurateur and previously the general manager of Eddie V’s Prime Seafood restaurants and Wildfish Seafood Grille. Chef Brian Feirstein was the heralded Executive Chef for Eddie V’s and most recently The Capital Grille. “From the

beginning, we both shared the vision of this being an inviting and not intimidating wine bar – the kind of place we would want to hang out with family and friends, sip good wine and enjoy great food,” said Tingle. “It takes 31 ½ gallons of wine to fill a cask, which is a generous amount that invites sharing. So we multiplied that number by two – a toast to us, two business partners who share the same vision.” Arizona’s largest independent retailer with over 80 brands of men’s and women’s designer jeans, tops and casual wear has relocated here. According to owner Steven Koeppel, “It was time for a new home for Scottsdale Jean Company, after more than six years at our current location. I searched everywhere for a prominent retail center that had the appropriate upscale image and tenants, convenient to both our existing and new clientele. As a destination retail

establishment, our customers seek us out for our unbeatable selection and unparalleled customer service, featuring experts trained in finding the right size and style for any body type.” The new 8,000 sq. ft. store features an upscale design, including the entire line of Kiehl’s skin, hair and body care products, a full sunglass shop, a customer lounge area and a children’s playroom. Another mainstay at The SHOPS, Village Tavern expanded and upgraded its popular bar area by adding 74 seats on a new outdoor patio area featuring a fire pit, community table and sliding glass door to take advantage of Scottsdale’s balmy temperatures and scenery. According to Paul Apana, general manager, “As our business thrives, the front patio expansion allows us to give back to our loyal patrons that continue to make Village Tavern a hub for entertaining.”

From fire-roasted chiles and sumptuous sweets, to refreshing drinks and specialty cocktails, Piñon Grill at Millennium Scottsdale Resort presents award-winning dining and catering experiences in the warmth of one of Scottsdale’s most intimate resorts. Piñon Grill captures the spirit of the Southwest with a subtle twist. Relax and enjoy our delicious menu amidst enchanting views of Scottsdale’s Camelback Lake and the McDowell Mountains in our charming indoor dining room or on our view-inspiring lakeside terrace. Culinary adventures await you for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special promotions and events. And with over 35 years of combined experience, our social catering specialists will assist you in creating tantalizing menus and unique themes, all with the goal of exceeding your wildest imagination and creating memories that last a lifetime.

Call 480.367.2422 to make a reservation. www.pinongrillrestaurant.com 16 SPRING 2012

7401 North Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85253

ARIZONA: By Marshall Trimble

As we celebrate our 100th Birthday it’s good to remember that Arizona is a place of contrasts and contradictions. The first white man to come to Arizona was a black man. His name was Esteban and he arrived in 1539 as a scout for the Coronado Expedition. The first native Arizona cowboy movie star was a cowgirl. Dorothy Fay Southworth of Prescott headed out to Hollywood in the 1930s and was soon starring in western movies. She married her favorite leading man, one of Hollywood’s most popular singing cowboys, Tex Ritter and was the mother of actor John Ritter. The Lost Dutchman was a German and the Gunfight at OK Corral didn’t occur at the OK Corral. The fight took place on Fremont Street between Fly’s Photograph Gallery and the Harwood House. The famous Navajo Taco was invented by a Greek and New York’s popular mayor, Fiorello La Guardia, was raised in Prescott. Arizona’s youngest county, La Paz, is officially America’s oldest. One-third of the population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau is 65 years old or older. Arizona’s rivers are known for their capricious behavior, too. In 1885, the citizens of Florence petitioned the territorial legislature for a bridge across the Gila River so they could get to the Salt River Valley when the river was up. They got their appropriation and the bridge was built and dedicated. One morning the citizens looked

A LAND OF ANOMALES AND TAMALES

out to see the fickled river had changed its course, bypassing the bridge leaving it standing alone in the desert. In 1846 when the Mormon Battalion crossed Arizona during the Mexican War, Lieutenant George Stoneman decided to test the navigability of the Gila. His men built a raft and loaded it with supplies and the young lieutenant cast off into the Gila, floated a short distance before the naval craft sank. Like any good skipper, Stoneman went down with his ship ... then walked ashore. Two years later the Howard family was floating down the Gila when Mrs. Howard, who was expecting, decided the time had come. They pulled ashore; she gave birth to a baby boy and promptly named him Gila. Gila Howard became the first American baby born in what would become Arizona. During the 1920s the federal government decided to build a dam on the Gila. Unfortunately, the surveyors picked an unusually wet year. They picked a site in a narrow canyon east of Hayden. The dam was built and named Coolidge for the former president but by the time it was dedicated, Arizona was in another drought and nothing but tall weeds grew where the lake was supposed to be. Calvin Coolidge was there but he didn’t have much to say about the waterless reservoir. He wasn’t known as “Silent Cal” for nothing. But humorist Will Rogers was and he was never at a loss for words. He looked out across the sea of weeds and quipped, “If that was my lake, I’d mow it.”

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle

Staying

Emergency Ready Though we’d like to think it is, Scottsdale will never be immune from disaster. Flash floods, brush fires and other major threats to safety can strike at any time with little or no warning. Police officers, firefighters, paramedics and other city personnel are ready to respond. Do you know what steps you should take to protect your family, loved ones and neighbors in the event of an emergency?

Emergency Supply List Water

• One gallon per person per day. • Keep a three-day supply. • Water for pets.

Food

• • • •

Three day supply of food Ready to eat canned meats, soups, juices, fruits and vegetables. High energy food - peanut butter, jelly, crackers, energy bars, trail mix. Food for infants, the elderly, those with special diets.

Tools and Supplies

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Flashlights. Portable, battery-operated radios. Batteries. First aid kits and instructions. Cash or traveler’s checks. Non-electrical can opener. Tent. Map of area. Personal hygiene items. Clothes and Bedding Sturdy shoes. Rain gear, hat, gloves. Blankets and sleeping bags.

Specialty Items • • • • • • • • 18

SPRING 2012

For Baby Formula Diapers Bottles Powdered milk Medicine For Adults Extra pair of glasses or contacts 7-day supply of prescription medicine Medical or special needs equipment.

The Dailey Method By now, your New Year’s resolution to get fit might be in need of a change. Move over Jane Fonda, The Dailey Method at Seville Plaza (near Wildflower on Indian Bend and Scottsdale Rd.) will stretch your limits! The style here isn’t joint pounding or heart pounding, but it is an extremely effective one-hour full-body workout that is guaranteed to make you leaner, stronger and more flexible. Linda Nofer, studio owner, grew up in Scottsdale and after 13 years on the California TV news scene, decided to come home. As a trained gymnast, Nofer was never afraid of trying something new. She fell in love with this method of exercise and decided it wasn’t just for the rich and famous. In June 2009, she opened her doors and, though admittedly the recession has made things a little tough, attendance is steady. “Once people try it and see how effective it is, they are hooked,” says Nofer. Jill Dailey developed the concept of the Dailey Method 12 years ago as a combination of ballet barre work, a lot of core strengthening and lengthening out of the muscles, some Yoga and Pilates, and a lot of unique exercises and stretches designed to strengthen and lengthen your body. All of the instructors are extensively trained. Nofer further explains, “We make sure our clients get handson corrections to ensure they are doing the work safely and so they get the maximum results. Your body gets really strong, really fast when you do The Dailey Method properly. All of our exercises and stretches are orthopedically correct, so our instructors study very hard to learn the intricacies of the method.” You won’t see any machines in this open studio – and you don’t need to bring anything to class except skid-proof socks (available there for $11). Some of the equipment you may use in class include a mat, ball, 2- or 3-pound weights, straps and the ballet barre. The class is always tailored to your level, no matter what age you are. The key difference is that the moves are isometric which means using the force of your own body strength to create resistance. Each move pulls muscle to the bone creating a lean look. It targets the larger and smaller muscle groups in the body and changes the shape of your body. Results can be seen in as quickly as three weeks with more defined arms, tighter abdominals and a high, lifted seat. I found that the movements are generally slow and it’s the holding of targeted positions that makes it intense. It’s not unusual for your muscles to shake, no matter how good of shape you’re in, and that’s a good sign! Classes are offered at different times throughout the day, 7 days a week. Unlike many small studios, childcare is also available. The environment is fresh and friendly, you might even be greeted by Nofer’s pup Argus. Since Nofer brought The Dailey Method to Arizona two and a half years ago, a second location at Desert Ridge has opened by popular demand. It’s owned and operated by Dawn Hardas, Nofer’s very first instructor and close friend. As incentive to our McCormick Ranch Lifestyle readers, mention this article to try a complimentary class at either location! And receive 20% off any package.

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To Give Allowance, or Not! by Laurie Bagley

I frequently get asked by parents “Should I give my child an allowance”? Many parents are perplexed by the whole allowance system. Some feel strongly that allowance is part of growing up and have fond memories of receiving their weekly “quarters”. Others are torn about whether they should be paying their child(ren) to help around the house. The decision to provide your child with an allowance is a personal one and can only be made once you have identified what you want your child to learn. For example, if you believe that your child(ren) should pitch in to help manage the household, then payment for such tasks may not be necessary. However, tasks beyond their “chore” list might warrant payment. Perhaps earning can begin after required tasks are completed. In a recent workshop, one child was excited to share with me that while she does not get paid to do her chores, she does get paid when she volunteers to perform additional tasks once her chores are complete. She said this motivated her not only to get her chores done, but to also pitch in and do more around the house. If, on the other hand, you believe that hard work, regardless of the task or responsibilities, should be rewarded in some fashion, then a set allowance might be appropriate for your family. Another child recently shared with me that she gets paid to clean the toilets in her home. What a great win-win for her family! Her parents save money on cleaning services and their daughter reaps a financial reward from her hard work. Regardless of your approach, the key is to find ways for your child(ren) to earn money. The simple act of performing a service for pay teaches children to value the money they receive. If they have to actually work for it, they make an emotional connection with it and are less likely to squander it down the road. So, whether it is 1 chore or 10, easy or hard, help your child LEARN TO EARN. You’ll be amazed at the impact it can have. A Scottsdale-based company, Family Finance Educators is dedicated to improving financial literacy among youth and young adults through interactive workshops, educational programs and individual coaching. More information can be found online at www.FamilyFinanceAZ.com. Like us on Facebook too! © Family Finance Educators, LLC

Unleashing Unconditional Love

By Emily Randolph

Neighbor Marlene Meyers was reading the Arizona Republic nearly four years ago when she was stopped short by an article about Gabriel’s Angels, a pet therapy program that helps Arizona children in crisis. As she read the story, she thought about Stroodle, her then two-year old Golden Doodle. “Stroodle is great with children and so very loving. I knew right away we could help.” Gabriel’s Angels was founded twelve years ago by Pam Gaber, a C-level executive who was searching for something to fulfill her beyond what Corporate America could offer. As fate would have it, she didn’t have long to wait. She had been volunteering at the Phoenix Crisis Nursery - a shelter that provides a safe haven for 600 children annually- and on a whim one day, she decided to bring her dog Gabriel to the center’s Christmas party. Gabriel, a big handsome Weimaraner, donned in fuzzy reindeer antlers, gamely went along – and the effect he had was stunning. The children who were unruly, unhappy and often abusive to one another were suddenly the opposite. They were engaged, happy, helpful and brimming over for the unconditional love of this dog. “What happened was nothing short of incredible,” said Pam remembering that day, and it was life changing. Gabriel’s Angels was born nearly twelve years ago to deliver “healing pet therapy to at-risk children, nurturing their emotional development and enhancing the quality of their lives forever.” They currently serve over 13,000 children annually in 120 child welfare agencies in Phoenix and Tucson. Recently, Gabriel’s Angels won the 2011 Sterling Award for a non-profit organization, which is one of the Valley’s most coveted business awards. Marlene and Stroodle donate their time through Gabriel’s Angels to Family Promise and Excelencia Elementary School. They are one team of 170 Gabriel’s Angels dogs/handlers that have committed at least two hours a month to visiting such centers, helping children of all ages. But, you don’t have to have a dog (cats are welcome too, but it’s harder to find one that’s a good fit) to help out. Accompanying many of the therapy teams is a “Helping Hand” volunteer, who receives the same training as a volunteer

with a pet, and who is on the same schedule as the rest of the team, visiting an agency every other week. Part of the benefits of the program is the stability that the children experience when the same therapy team comes month after month to visit them. They look forward to it. So, one needs to be committed for the long term, but the happiness in the children’s faces when a dog walks into the room is its own rich reward. “It’s a great way to give back to the community,” says Marlene. “Stroodle has a special gift, and it’s a pleasure to see how the children respond to him.” Gabriel’s Angels is actively looking for volunteers, and to see if you and your dog might qualify, you can take a short quiz on the Gabriel’s Angels’ website. If you are, your next step is to get registered with your dog through either the Delta Society or Therapy Dog Inc. Then, Gabriel’s Angels will match you and your pet with an agency - and you are off and running to unleash the unconditional love that the dogs bring to the children, something they haven’t had a chance to experience in their young lives. Other ways to participate include giving a donation, attending their great events or becoming a board member. Gabriel’ s Angels next major event is their annual “Unleash the Love Fundraising Breakfast,” May 2, 2012 at the Arizona Biltmore. Over ninety table hosts invite 1,000 guests to attend this one-hour program and breakfast. (RSVP is required.) All contributions are welcome to help children conquer their abusive environment so that they can have the chance to become loving, nurturing and productive members of our community. Though Marlene is retired, she and Stroodle, now six, have no plans to stop their good work. She says, “It’s just so rewarding.” Stroodle agrees. Contact Information: Gabriel’s Angels Therapy team quiz: http://www.gabrielsangels.org/volunteer_quiz.php. Tel: 602.266.0875 Toll Free 866.785.9010 McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 21

Local Events

In Your Own By Jeanne Alspaugh During these tough economic times it can be hard to find things to do with your family and friends that are inexpensive and sometimes even FREE. This column focuses on those opportunities. Sometimes those options are closer than you think, all you have to do is look in your own backyard. Exclusively Little at the McCormickStillman Railroad Park March 3rd 10:00a.m. - 3:00p.m. This free special event for children six years old and younger. Activities include game booths, moonwalks, face painting, petting zoo, health demonstrations and entertainment! Children are invited to bring their favorite stuffed animal and enter it in the Stuffed Animal Contest. Prizes will be awarded to the most loved, cutest and best dressed. Train & carousel rides are $2.00 each. Children under three ride free with a paying adult. Ready Scottsdale March 10th at 10:30am Granite Reef Senior Center 1700 North Granite Reef Dr. This presentation will discuss the need for preparedness and simple steps you can take to protect your family and loved ones in the event of an emergency. Specifically, the seminars will discuss creating a disaster supply kit, making a family disaster plan, and a list of resources to help each member of the family protect themselves. Send an email to EMHS@ScottsdaleAZ.gov to register or for more information contact John Moede, Emergency Management Coordinator call (480) 312-1832 Native Trails 12-1:30pm on Thursdays and Saturdays Scottsdale Civic Center Park Celebrate the Native American cultures of the Southwest through song and dance. 22 SPRING 2012

Backyard The season kicks off January 19, 2012 and runs through April 14, 2012. Native Trails brings together traditional instruments, colorful dances, and customary attire to share the stories of Southwestern tribes, including the Hopi, Diné (Navajo), Akimel Au-Authm and San Carlos Apache. You'll enjoy dances like the Southwest Horse Dance, inter-tribal pow wow dancing, world championship level hoop dancing and the audience-participation round dance. Native Trails also features American Indian artisans, who will be selling specialty items like jewelry, baskets, flutes and paintings. New for its 10th anniversary, Native Trails is adding local merchants who will sell fresh and packaged items indigenous to the area. You can buy and take home bread, muffins, and soup mixes that combine staple ingredients used by Hopi, Diné and Zuni tribes. Meanwhile, food vendors will sell local culinary delights that you can enjoy on the spot for a picnic in Scottsdale's sunny winter weather. Bring your blanket or lawn chair to Civic Center Park and enjoy idyllic weather and exciting performances that will take you on a journey to the first Nations of Arizona and North America. Scottsdale Street Fair at The Pavilions at Talking Stick Every Sunday 10am-4pm, except June through September In the Southwest corner parking lot of the Pavilions’ Shopping center @ Indian Bend and the 101 Freeway. The Scottsdale Street Fair features vendors offering fine arts and crafts, a very extensive farmers market and flower area too. Family entertainment is also very important, they provide street performers, sponsor exhibits and an entertainment booth to keep the little one’s happy as well. For more information, visit www.scottsdal-

estreetfair.com This weekly street fair not only will celebrate the character of the neighborhood and its community, it will also bring together many of the regions finest vendors of fine arts and crafts, home and lifestyle accessories, jewelry, and local business services and offerings. Each week, this event is expected to draw thousands of Valley residents who will be enjoying a day of family fun filled with talented artists, kids zone, a variety of quality food options, live music, and so much more.

Facility Focus

Chaparral Park’s Off Leash Dog Area With Spring in full swing, get out and enjoy our wonderful parks here in Scottsdale. The Chaparral Park Off Leash Area is a spectacular facility and is truly one of our signature amenities. Bring your “fuzzy friends” out for a day that they will surely “dream” about that evening. The Off Leash Area is 4 acres and 3 of that is grass. Off Leash User Areas The Off-Leash Area is divided into three separate sections Sections will be rotated to allow for maintenance and turf repair. One section will always be closed for maintenance and turf restoration. Two sections will be open the majority of the time with one area designated for active dogs and another for passive dogs. Amenities The Off-Leash Area includes turf areas, seating, play features and water fountains. Patrons may bring additional portable chairs, which must be removed when they leave. Patrons may bring tennis balls/toys however, they must remember to take them home or staff will remove them.

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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 23

See Latest Homes Sold in McCormick Ranch at

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SOL

SOL $650,000

8101 E DEL CAVERNA DR 4bd/3ba, 3150 sqft

D L O S

$539,500 8601 E IRIsh huNtER tRL 5bd/3ba, 2937 sqft

D L O S $365,000

9414 N 87th st 3bd/2.5ba, 2600 sqft

8317 E sAN sIMON DR 3bd/2ba, 2404 sqft – short sale

D L O S

9125 N 82ND st 4bd/2.5ba, 2782 sqft

D L O S $350,000

8230 E thOROuGhBRED tRL 4bd/2ba, 2447 sqft – short sale

$335,000 9175 N 82ND st 4bd/2.5ba, 2782 sqft

7618 E VIA DEL REPOsO st 2bd/2ba, 1758 sqft

$350,000 8718 E VIA tAZ NORtE 3bd/2ba, 2119 sqft

SOL $335,000

8536 E VIA DE LA EsCuELA 4bd/2ba, 2208 sqft

D L O S $280,000

$400,000 8420 E shEtLAND tRL 3bd/3ba, 2661 sqft – short sale

SOL

D L O S $298,000

9441 N 80th PL 4bd/3ba, 2944 sqft

SOL

8120 E APPALOOsA tRL 4bd/2.5ba, 2718 sqft

$522,000

$355,000

$336,000

SOL

D L O S

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$329,500 7107 N VIA DE MAs 4bd/2ba, 2010 sqft – Lender Owned

D L O S $250,000

7634 N VIA DE MANANA 3bd/2ba, 1996 sqft – short sale

$230,000 8374 E sAN sEBAstIAN DR 3bd/2ba, 1560 sqft – short sale

Selected MLS homes sold in McCormick Ranch, November 22 - December 31, 2011 brought to you by John Wake, Associate Broker, HomeSmart Real Estate

New 35-Point Marketing Plan Call to see how I would sell your home. John Wake Associate Broker, M.S. HomeSmart Real Estate 480-463-4475 John@johnwake.com