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Scottsdale Conference Resort Embarks on $9 Million Renovation SUMMER 2015
Carlsbad Bound
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!
9000 E. San Victor Drive, Scottsdale,AZ 85258 www.MBKSeniorLiving.com
Contents
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12
Features: Scottsdale Conference Resort Renovation . . . . . . . 12 Carlsbad Bound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 In Every Issue: Real Estate Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Four-Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Local Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Local Business HighlightS: Smallcakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Fresh Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 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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SUMMER 2015
Letter from the
Editor
Every once in a while I meet that person who says with jeer, “100 degrees, bring it on!”.
And never mind that come September those same people are complaining about the heat like the rest of us. As a native, I know what to expect, but I’m never happy to see the ideal temperatures come to an end. The only perk is that we’ll see a dip in traffic and the busy restaurants we’ve been wanting to try will have shorter wait times! So as we search for ways to cool down during these next few months, I thought it would be nice to not only spotlight the family beach town of Carlsbad, a quick 6-hour drive from here, but also the tremendous remodel of our first area resort. With the lifestyle changes we’re seeing in Scottsdale and around the country, The Scottsdale Conference Resort is responding with changes for today’s traveler and the desires of our bicycle-friendly community. Until next time,
Alexandra Duemer alexandra@mcrlife.com
Connect with us
@MCRLife
McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
5
Real Estate By Gene Montemore & Gary May It’s when the single-family home market shines. Landscaping looks beautiful and it’s warm enough that having a pool seems like a good idea again. Gone are the winter visitors and it’s a little too warm for the tire-kickers. New families come from other parts of the Valley or other areas of the US and look for a home. This is when the real buyers come out. Game on. Last article highlighted the activity in the condominium / townhouse market and how it would continue to dominate, and did - this market exploded during the late Winter / early Spring season. We expected consistency in single family home values since the last quarter. It is definitely consistent – perhaps too consistent. Where we are today As we ramp up the Spring Buying Season, activity is good with 19 Pending sales as of May at an average list price of $506,467. Smaller homes are selling very well. The south end of the Ranch is hot with very well-priced fixup properties. The north end of the Ranch boasts solid Pending sales approaching $250 per square foot. For new inventory as of April 1, we have 25 homes showing 30 days on the market or less. This new inventory shows off listings in the premiere neighborhoods like the Islands at McCormick Ranch, Palo Viento, & Playa del Sur while some addition/remodel opportunities continue to pop up on the south end of the Ranch. If you’ve been reading our past articles, we’ve been keeping an eye on the patio home / townhome market (excluding apartment-style condominiums) and expected it to stay white hot. This market blew up from February 1 through April 30 with 53 sales (up a staggering 331% over last quarter) at an average price of $400,767 or $199 per square foot. Currently, there are 26 under contract at an average list price $400,819 and $203 per square foot. Please check MCRlife.com for an upcoming, in-depth article regarding why the market hasn’t experienced much movement during that past 24 months. With the Summer quickly approaching, we believe the condo market has no choice but to slow down. We fully expect May and early June to be the typical brisk transactional season it always is for single-family homes. New inventory in 6
SUMMER 2015
the $500,000 - $700,000 range could be used, as there are just a few good homes on the market and not much to choose from. If you’re a Buyer, get there early! Go see an Open House! –G.M. & G.M. Gene Montemore & Gary May (owner/broker) operate the Central Scottsdale Real Estate Group at Real Living Success Realty. RLS is a marketing-focused brokerage located in the heart of McCormick Ranch and an affiliate of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Gene & Gary can be reached at info@CentralScottsdale.com or 480-295-4550.
BY 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 February 1 – April 30 (89 days): 50 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: $518,498 (6.5% decrease) February 1 – April 30: $518,613 (.8% increase) 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) February 1 – April 30: $209 (.5% decrease) source: ARMLS
From
$155-$195
Spotlight:
Smallcakes
Cupcake & Creamery 8
SUMMER 2015
There’s a new dessert concept coming to the neighborhood – decadent, gourmet cupcakes and cupcake Ice Cream! Smallcakes: A Cupcakery and Creamery, a popular national cupcake brand, will be opening its first Phoenix Metro location in September at 9699 N Hayden Rd., in Mountain View Plaza. Owned and operated by Michelle Arena, a McCormick Ranch resident, she’s thrilled to bring her love of sweets to the area. Arena says, “The decision to open a Smallcakes in our community came about after the holidays when the family was discussing where to go to get treats close-by and within a bike ride or walk. I pass Mountain View Plaza constantly and thought that would be the perfect location, in the heart of MCR and not far from the Greenbelt. When I heard from long-time residents that there once was a frozen yogurt shop in that plaza and how they loved it, I knew that ice cream would be welcomed back into the area. Why not add Smallcakes ice cream to the already famous cupcake menu?” Already known as a wonderful hostess by all of her friends and neighbors, she adds, “I am most excited to be part of the community and get to know names and faces when they come in to pick up orders.” Smallcakes was founded by Jeff Martin in Kansas City in 2008 and has grown to over 100 locations offering specialty cupcakes baked fresh daily and small batch Ice Cream. Martin and Smallcakes have received national recognition with his three appearances on the Food Network’s Cupcake Wars, a feature on the morning television show The View, catering cupcakes to star-studded events such as the MTV Video Music Awards, and being listed as one of the Top Ten Cupcake Places to try in the country by USA Today. “We’re thrilled to have a Smallcakes opening in Scottsdale and have received a great response from the community since announcing we were coming to town,” says Martin. “We pride ourselves on delivering delicious cupcakes made from scratch every morning right from the kitchen of your neighborhood cupcakery.” The cupcakery’s daily menu features 12 signature flavors – Birthday Cake, Caramel Crunch, Chocolate Cream, Chocoholic, Cookies N Crème, Hot Fudge Sundae, Lemon, Peanut Butter Cup, Pink Chocolate, Pink Vanilla, Red Velvet, and Vanilla-N-Chocolate – as well as a rotation of over 200 specialty flavors such as Maple Bacon, Fat Elvis, Cannoli, Strawberries N’ Crème, Tiramisu, Apple Stuffed French Toast, and Pumpkin. Smallcakes also offers Gluten Free options. This location will also offer cupcake ice cream! “We take our amazing cupcakes and incorporate them with our old fashion ice cream mix to create a rich, flavorful, and amazing tasting ice cream,” Martin says. Ice Cream flavors include Red Velvet, 24 Karrot, Chocoholic, Vanilla Bean and Salted Caramel. With an outdoor patio planned just a few blocks from Cochise Elementary, Arena hopes this becomes an area family’s frequent for an after school treat and birthday parties. With over 200 flavors to choose from, there is something for everyone! Like their facebook page Smallcakes Scottsdale to stay “in the know”.
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7700 East McCormick Parkway • Scottsdale, Arizona 85258 McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
9
RECIPE
Pea Salad
Cool, crisp and perfect for Summer parties! Easy to throw together and goes great with any grilled meats.
Ingredients • • • • • • • • •
1/3 cup Sour Cream 1 Tablespoon Mayonnaise Salt And Pepper 1 Tablespoon White Vinegar 4 cups Frozen Green Peas, Almost Totally Thawed 8 slices Bacon, Cooked Until Crisp And Chopped 1/2 whole Small Red Onion, Halved And Sliced Very Thin 6 ounces, weight Cheddar Or American Cheese, Cut Into Small Cubes 3 Tablespoons Minced Fresh Parsley
Just mix, chill and serve!
10
SUMMER 2015
Meet Emma the Brave
As any parent will tell you, seeing your child in pain is the brother (Tom) and younger sister (Kate), Emma has spent a lot of most gut-wrenching, helpless experience. For Keri Lee, resident time on the sidelines talking with adults. “She’s more like an adult and mom of three, this was her daily experience for many years. my age than an 8 year old,” says Lee. With therapy twice a week, Emma has been battling “something” since she was 18 months their goal this year is to get her doing all of the things a kid her old. She’d be playing and all of sudden shriek in pain. “We age usually does, like run and jump. couldn’t go over speed bumps, pour water over her head in the In December, Emma went through her 3rd surgery. She was bath or pull her in a play wagon without her thrilled to come back to Cochise for 3rd grade crying,” says Lee. Finally, when she was 3 and with all of her friends. Lee says, “I can’t say after countless appointments, enough about the exceptional support we’ve “This is Heathcliff in one evaluations, of his majestic poses. therapies, doctor visits and tests, Dr. Bearns received from the Cochise community. They He loves looking out the window and observing at Phoenix Children’s Hospital (PCH) have an amazing special needs program.” On the little wild life in the back yard.” – J. Johnson ordered an MRI that gave us the answer. Emma’s first Monday back at school she was She had Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma in a wheelchair and by that Friday she was (tumor = cancer) the length of her back telling her mom she could walk to class on her inside her spine. These benign tumors often own! affect balance and coordination. She was Emma’s favorite thing to do is draw. She immediately admitted to PCH to remove the has been picked twice by PCH to be their tumor. featured artist to raise funds with holiday Through tears, Lee says, “It was a one cards. Keri says, “This year we made our own in a million chance for her to get this. art and helped to raise funds for her therapy “Lexie is 10 years old and has lived on the Ranch for 2 and years. events.” She is The doctors hadn’t even considered the treatment and medical billshalf at various a Yorkshire terrier and was a rescue dog. She loves that more, her owners walk her at possibility. But you have to keep pushing… If you’d like to learn please visit ‘Emma Send us a picture least twice day in the parks aroundthe McCormick so she on canfacebook. meet other that’s been my lesson.” Brave WillRanch Walk Again’ To four-legged friends.” – C. Chandlerhelp families in need, Lee also recommends Unfortunately, the tumor came back two 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).
Four-legged
Ranchers of your pet!
McCormick McCormickRanch RanchLifestyle Lifestyle 11
Scottsdale Resort & Conference Center Embarks on $9 Million Renovation Scottsdale Resort & Conference Center will embark on a massive renovation July 1 that will transform the independent resort and revitalize its amenities. The resort is the newest property in the Destination Hotels portfolio and the only resort in the Phoenix metropolitan area to undergo a substantial renovation in 2015. In September, the property will be unveiled as The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, A Destination Hotel, and it will have a gorgeous, updated look to accompany its new name. The first phase of the renovation will inject $9 million into the property, introducing a new restaurant and bar, transforming the main pool, adding significant outdoor meeting and event space, and enhancing guest rooms, all while creating a more open, welcoming feel throughout the resort. Though the property will still cater to corporate events and travel, they are shifting from the conference component to a culture of individual travelers and 12 SUMMER 2015
locals. Bob Smith, Marketing Manager, who has been with the resort for 10 years, says this shift will give a more open, country club feel to the resort. Residents will have the ability to ride their bikes over for drinks, or purchase a day pass to enjoy the new pool amenities. “The goal of the renovation is to maximize the aesthetic potential of the romantic, Spanish architecture and beautiful grounds of The Scottsdale Resort elevating the overall guest experience and amenities,” said Kevin Regan, senior vice president of operations, Western region, for Destination Hotels. “This property is situated in an upscale community centrallylocated but just enough off the beaten path that it is a bit of a hidden gem within this world-class travel destination. We cannot wait to share this property’s new look with our guests, neighbors and the local community.” The designers at PHX Architects in Phoenix and SB Design in Scottsdale
developed plans to update the look of the resort and introduce new amenities, while staying true to the rich history of the property originally designed by legendary Scottsdale architect Bennie Gonzales. The architects drew inspiration from Mexico and South America, incorporating the romance, history and architectural splendor of Mexican haciendas (Spanish for estate) into the design, color palette and furnishings. The outdoor space will tap the grand fazendas of Brazil from the Colonial period. These farms featured ancient stone walls, arcaded portals, cobbled courtyards and grande salons. The resort’s new look and feel also draws inspiration from Argentinian estancias, which were magnificent country estates and working ranches that guarded the nation’s cultural heritage from its Spanishcolonial beginnings. New Culinary Concepts Sangria’s Lounge is currently the place for groups and leisure travelers to enjoy
drinks and small bites in a comfortable, casual bar atmosphere while watching sports or playing a game of billiards. During the summer, the restaurant will be completely remodeled and boast communal dining, an open-air kitchen, and updated furnishings. Kitchen West will feature a new culinary concept and menu influenced by the Western United States for lunch and dinner. The resort’s Executive Chef Rick Dupere will oversee the new culinary outlet. In the middle of the current lobby, The Scottsdale Resort will debut a new lobby bar serving as an extension of the restaurant, the perfect gathering place for visitors and locals anytime of the day. The bar will serve local coffee, freshly squeezed juices, and light breakfast options and snacks in the morning and afternoon. Guests will enjoy craft beers and wines on tap with live entertainment during the afternoon and evenings along with delectable bites from the restaurant. New bar seating at the lobby windows overlooking McCormick Ranch Golf Club will provide unparalleled views of the rolling fairways. Well-known by locals and repeat guests, Palm Court Restaurant is a AAA Four Diamond restaurant that boasts dramatic second-story views of Camelback Mountain and the golf course. After the renovation, Palm Court will offer breakfast, Sunday brunch and host special events, such as holiday brunches. Rest & Relaxation The main pool area will be completely remodeled and include a new full-service restaurant and bar. It will feature 16 new cabanas available for private rental, a shaded trellis in the water and a gorgeous bridge-like water feature dividing the new pool, which will be 2.5 times larger than the existing one. The pool area will be modernized with fire pits and water features to enjoy year round. Guests can take a break from their work and leisure activities to enjoy peace and serenity at The Scottsdale Resort’s Amansala Spa. The spa offers a multitude of services and treatments to refresh both mind and body, under the expert hands of experienced therapists. Guests enjoy rejuvenating treatments such as a hot stone massage, antigravity facial, desert mineral hydration body wrap and the spa’s signature Amansala Sonoran body rejuvenation. The Amansala Spa will be enhanced to include an intimate lobby and a new entrance for the fitness center, streamlining the arrival and departure process, and setting a relaxing, inviting tone for visitors. Location, Location, Location The resort’s main entrance is tucked away on McCormick Ranch Parkway and can often be overlooked. It will be completely redesigned to feature new signage and lush, ranch-style landscaping. Date palms will line the circular drive and drive-through archways will welcome guests to the new Scottsdale Resort. When opening on Sept. 4, 1976, The Scottsdale Resort was the first resort in the McCormick Ranch area. In 2016, the property will celebrate its 40th anniversary and embark upon a second phase of renovations.
Fresh Start Fresh Start Women’s Foundation transforms the lives of women through engagement and education. Fresh start sees women from all walks of life. Some are homeless and need help accessing basic needs. Some are recently divorced. Some have just lost a job. Some, like Debbie, have escaped a terrifying abuser and are trying to re-start their lives. After school, Debbie moved to Oklahoma where she met her husband. By then, the children from her first marriage were teenagers and spent little time with them. Her husband had previously been charged with domestic abuse, but Debbie never knew. They were married for 16 years and lived first in Oklahoma and then in Missouri. During their 16-year marriage, the abuse and control grew worse. He didn’t allow her to work or even leave the house without him except for 10 minutes to walk the dog. On the rare occasion she babysat, he drove her there, sat in the car and waited. He had her car repossessed, and outsiders never sensed how controlling and violent Debbie’s husband was. Finally, a woman at her church realized what was going on and helped her get out. She left with the clothes on her back and fled to a shelter. One of the hardest things she ever did was look down as she was leaving and say goodbye to her dog – her one bit of freedom for 10 minutes each day. She spent nine months moving from shelter to shelter and finally landed in a small, government-financed apartment. She had no table and chairs, no blankets, no nightgown. “How do you decide in the middle of winter to use your jacket as a pillow or a blanket?” Debbie asked. She received no alimony. Her husband hid her things in storage and sold them. Though she had little, Debbie breathed a sigh of relief when she entered the “Safe at Home” program. She was at last finally able to feel safe from her abuser, knowing he would not find her. That is when Debbie came to Fresh Start to rebuild her life. They helped her with referrals for food and shelter. She received a haircut and some new clothes through the personal development area. She received counseling and a custom roadmap for her journey, culminating with a scholarship to go back to college. Fresh Start put 14 SUMMER 2015
Debbie back on the path to self-sufficiency. Fresh Start welcomes women like Debbie with open arms every day. The women that come to Fresh Start are treated with dignity and respect. The Jewell McFarland Lewis Fresh Start Women’s Resource Center in Phoenix focuses on three core values: personal development, education, and economic selfsufficiency. Fresh Start provides education, counseling, legal services, career services, mentoring and personal development to any woman over the age of 18 regardless of her economic background. An e-learning center is on-site with 19 internetaccessible computers for women to use six days per week. In addition, free, onsite Child Watch is available for children while their mother or legal guardian is accessing programs and services. All of Fresh Start’s services are either free or low-cost. “Fresh Start is a community of people that are dedicated to supporting women who want to thrive,” stated Susan Berman, Fresh Start’s President & CEO. “When you build up a woman, you build up her family and you build up her entire community.” How can you help? Consider volunteering at the center or an event, becoming a mentor, volunteering at Fresh Start’s resale boutique, Fresh Start Treasures, at 40th St. and Thomas. There are many ways to support Fresh Start. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Jessica Doane at Jdoane@fswf.org. In addition, Treasures takes donations of clothing, furniture, decorative items and housewares. All proceeds benefit Fresh Start Women’s Foundation and donations are tax-deductible. Visit www.freshstartwomen.org or call (602) 252-8494 to learn more about Fresh Start Women’s Foundation. Quotes from Fresh Start’s Clients: “I felt welcomed and dignified the moment I walked through the door” – Kimberly “Fresh Start took me from the depths of despair through a journey of growth and renewal” – Brandi “No matter what I was facing, there was always a course at Fresh Start that would help me through” – Jeanine “Fresh Start is my oasis in the desert. I hope that I can return one day to volunteer and give back for everything it has given me” - Marcy
midasphoenix.com
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Scottsdale 9550 N. 90th Street, Suite A-2 480-391-0796 Save on brakes, tires, maintenance and total car care.
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Most vehicles. Up to 5 quarts of conventional oil. High mileage, synthetic, synthetic blend oils extra. Plus shop fee up to 10% where permitted of non-discounted retail price, not to exceed $35. Plus applicable tax. Tire rotation at time of service. No cash value. Not valid with other offers. At participating Midas locations, with coupon. Expires: 07-31-15
• Check and set tire pressure • Clean front and rear windows • Vacuum floorboards • 4 wheel tire rotation
*oc875usOTH*
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• Brakes • Exhaust
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Excludes tax. Excludes tires, batteries and oil changes. Discount off regular price. Consumer pays all tax. Most vehicles. Plus shop fee up to 10% where permitted of non-discounted retail price, not to exceed $35. No cash value. Not valid with other offers. At participating Midas locations, with coupon. Expires: 07-31-15
50058_PHOENI_803_McKay_8.5x11.indd 1
A/C CHECK
Most vehicles. A/C check does not include diagnostics, leak detection dye test, repairs or refrigerant. Up to 10% shop fee where permitted based on non-discounted retail price, not to exceed $35.00. Plus applicable tax. No cash value. Not valid with other offers. At participating Midas locations, with coupon. Expires: 07-31-15
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*ti9100USOTH* 4/17/15 2:20 PM
Carlsbad Bound It happens every summer: As the mercury travels north to 100, Valleyites travel west. This year, you and your San-Diegobound group might turn up Interstate 5 another half hour, 40 minutes or so, from Arizonans’ saintly seasonal getaway. In North San Diego County, Carlsbad Village offers many of the attractions of its mega-neighbor south and some unique additions. World-famous Pacific Highway, U.S. 101, passes through town, and, steps away, is the Pacific. Your lessfortunate desert brethren can just dream of this; text them if you have a moment after windsurfing. Originally surfer based, much like its neighbors, Oceanside and Laguna Beach, the young-beat but low-keyed Carlsbad Village has become a wonderfully walkable community of locally owned businesses, including the Village Faire Shops, vintage furniture and custom board stores, bike shops and other welcoming boutiques. The Village has 30-plus restaurants, cafes, wine stories and microbreweries, such as Witch Creek Winery and Tasting Room, Land & Water Co., Paon, Vigilucci’s and The Compass gastro-lounge. On a recent trip, I enjoyed a Sunday light meal at Café Topes and a dinner at the very high-energy Blue Ocean Robata & Sushi, where gracious Chef de Cuisine Andrew Halvorsen served Sticky Pork Spare Ribs and the particularly outstanding Wok-Glazed Beef Tenderloin. 16
SUMMER 2015
For those who like to eat, come hungry from Interstate 8; for music and dance lovers, the Village sidewalks have rhythm; for shoppers, bring your browsing savvy. “What you won’t find is a chain or brand name store,” says Nicole, Lazar, a resident
and spokeswoman for the area. “What you’ll find is local color and laid-back hospitality.” The Carlsbad Danish Bakery has been here for generations, the popular Paradise Pizza delivers to the Village’s “Movies Under the Stars,” and the Wednesday farmers’ markets unite visitors with locals. And, one of the nation’s largest one-day festivals, Carlsbad Village Street Faire, occurs every May. For art lovers, The Foundry Artist Village is a live/work studio for 16 resident artists, with exhibition galleries to watch them at work, and the Village has other sculptors, painters and jewelers at stores such as Viz Art Ink and TEKSartist. The New Village Arts Theater schedules performances year round, and
by David M. Brown
every Friday Night Live provides three or four musicians who entertain on the street to start off the weekend. Musicians, in fact, have long been a part of Carlsbad Village life. Bassist Ron Blair of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, guitarist Stevie Salas, who played with Rod Stewart and Mick Jagger, lead guitarist John Steely of Daughtry and Grammy Award-winning singersongwriter Jason Mraz all have lived and played here. And, go take a walk: A dozen large murals by local artists can be enjoyed throughout the Village; some are as large as 30 feet long. Every corner is serendipity and adventure. One muststop, the historic railroad station, once important for bringing in goods, is now home to Carlsbad’s Visitors Center, where staff can guide you according to your needs. Outdoor activities at the chic seaside village are abundant for active adults and families. “Don’t mistake Carlsbad Village for a sleepy surfer town. Here the culture is constant creativity inspiration and charm,” Lazar says. “We’re never short on amazing experiences, mixing a spirit of nostalgia, whimsy and fantastic SoCal weather. Carlsbad Village makes taking a beach vacation a breeze.” Stay a Night, Play the Week One night isn’t enough in the Village: You’re just getting settled in to the lifestyle. Stay at least two, a long weekend, a week
for the children. For them, nearby is San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park and all of the offerings of San Diego, including museum-rich Balboa Park. Take time to walk the turf and absorb the area élan. Two of the area hotels I enjoyed are the recently rebranded Cape Rey Carlsbad, a Hilton Resort, just south of Carlsbad Village, and the Beach Terrace Inn, as close to the center of town and the beach that’s possible. Its new name was inspired by its location along the San Luis Rey River Valley. The 215-room Cape Rey Carlsbad is luxurious simplicity, answering the twin demands of today’s hip traveler. It’s also chic and family friendly. As a guest, I enjoyed its proximity to the beach, the on-property Ocean Crest Spa, offering treatments and services derived from natural, organic and locally sourced products and Chandler’s Restaurant and Lounge. With a relaxing ocean view, Chandler’s also offers excellent food, breakfast, lunch and dinner –– and without the usual qualifier “for a hotel restaurant.” The night of arrival, after the multi-hour car ride from Phoenix, I enjoyed the Crab-crusted Sea Bass, which, paired with a California Pinot Noir and the ocean views, graciously welcomed me to the area. Under Executive Chef is Pascal Vignau, Chandler’s is also partnering with local brew masters, vintners and food experts to underline its commitment to regionalism. The French-born chef was formerly executive chef for Four Seasons Aviara
Resort in Carlsbad, which offered San Diego County’s only AAA Five-Diamond restaurant during his tenure, and he has also worked at the AAA Five-Diamond French Room in Dallas and the legendary Hotel Negresco in Nice, France. The sea-inspired interior décor also anchors the hotel to its place, with aquatic color schemes and professional photography throughout, showcasing water scenes from the world and locally. In this spirit, the employees are ambassadors to the beach lifestyle, connecting you to area opportunities. “Our property is a beachfront basecamp for Southern California adventures,” says General Manager Vikram Sood. “In addition to its proximity to some of the best beaches in Southern California, it’s also minutes from everything, from San Diego’s top breweries to family attractions like LEGOLAND. “At the hotel itself, couples and guests with kids can each create their own adventure with offerings like beach picnics, poolside cabana service, in-room hot cocoa for movie nights –– you name it. The resort and its location are the perfect blend of romance and fun; guests can really make it their own
and feel at home. We want a visit to Cape Rey to be an experience, not just a hotel stay.” In Carlsbad Village itself, The Beach Terrace Inn is for beachcombers, as it uniquely adjoins Carlsbad State Beach. The boutique hotel, built in the 1960s, completed an $8-million renovation in 2011 and has been rightly noted by sites such as TripAdvisor. “The Beach Terrace Inn is unique in Carlsbad Village and San Diego County for its true beachfront location,” says Justin Ruffier, director of marketing. “You can spend all day in flip-flops and wind up on the sand merely by stepping out the private beach gate. Of course, with rooms averaging over 550 square feet in size, most with private ocean-front balconies, it’s understandable if you don’t ever make the trek.” One afternoon, a friend and I didn’t. We were staying in one of the 680-plus-square foot Ocean Front King rooms, with 300-thread count linens, a 42-inch plasma television, wet bar with a refrigerator and coffee maker. We were particularly fortunate to have a 64-degree San Diego day in early winter and sat on the balcony for three or four hours. We sipped a California red blend, munched fruit, cheese and crackers and watched the gulls and terns, families, and friends variously soar over, land, play and stroll on the beach. As the cooling evening came on, one couple, surfers just an hour earlier, huddled together and watched, as we did, the sun retire into the sea. Brown is a Valley-based freelancer (azwriter.com).
‘Bars ON Bikes’ Rides for a
Good Cause
18 SUMMER 2015
Now in its 2nd year, a group of fun-loving and involved Cochise Elementary parents have turned this relatively small event into a huge success for our area school. It started with a simple idea of getting friends and neighbors together (about 20 people) to take advantage of the greenbelt and bike ride to some favorite neighborhood taverns -- and it grew from there. This past April, the ride had over 90 participants! The bike ride started at 4pm at Downside Risk, then moved onto Zipps at 6 until the final 4 Kentucky vs. Wisconsin basketball game was over. The last stop was Tavern Grill. These local establishments were nice enough to accommodate the crowd. Since this event brings a significant amount of money to the establishments involved, next time, organizers are hoping to receive donations for partial proceeds during the event. This time, Peppertree Marketing designed a Bars on Bikes T-shirt, which sold for $25, and all proceeds went to the Cochise Elementary APT. Cheers on coming together as a community!
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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Separating Female’s Financial Facts from Fiction
By: Alison Bailin Batz There are more fables in regard to women and money, it seems, than in all of Greek and Roman mythology combined. Below, financial professionals separate financial fact from fiction for females at any stage of life. In our 20s… Fiction: I am still young. I have plenty of time before I need to start saving. Fact: “The earlier you start to save, the longer your assets can potentially accumulate, thanks to the power of time and the ability of your earnings to generate additional earnings through compounding,” says Erik Pedersen, senior vice president of Scottsdale’s own AXA Advisors Southwest. “The cost of procrastination is expensive.” Just how expensive? “If you can believe it, if a woman invests just $189 per month starting at age 25 and does so for 40 years, assuming a hypothetical average 7% return, she will have $500,000 by retirement at age 65,” says Pedersen. “Do the math – this woman has only invested about $91,000 in those 40 years. The other $410,000 comes from the power of compounded returns.” Please note that the 7% does not reflect the actual performance of any investment. It is used for illustration purposes only. Conversely, according to Pedersen, if a 50-year-old woman wanted to get to that $500,000, she would have to contribute an eye-bulging $1,568 a month, at the same hypothetical 7% return, to even come close. Fiction: I contribute here and there to my 401K. That’s all I need to worry about right now. Fact: “Aside from not taking advantage of time while it is still on their side, women new to the job market also often focus on one savings option – usually a 401(k) through their company,” says Pedersen. “While a start, putting all of one’s eggs into one basket is rarely the best option for anything – savings or otherwise.” Therefore, after contributing the maximum amount to a
20 SUMMER 2015
401(k) and taking advantage of any match offered, Pedersen recommends looking into starting a Roth IRA, as well as researching annuities, which are long-term retirement products that can help protect against the risk of outliving one’s assets. In our 30s and 40s Fiction: I just don’t have the time to worry about retirement right now. Fact: “By this time, women have not only put in the blood, sweat and tears to their careers, but many have also gotten married, started families and/or committed to a community cause or two,” says Pedersen. “As a result, financial planning may fall to the spouse or partner – or fall off the map altogether for years.” This myth is particularly dangerous given the sheer number of years women outlive the male counterparts in their lives. We all know of women who have never had to write a check, and then suddenly that have to handle all the household finances – it is a very difficult position. Pedersen recommends keeping things simple by answering one question: Who do you want to be in retirement? Once you know what you’re trying to achieve, you can gather information on your own from publicly available information, or you can work with a financial professional to save you time. Fiction: I will get half our family’s assets should my partner and I divorce. Fact: “This is still among the biggest misconceptions women – and many men – have when it comes to love and money,” says Pedersen. “The truth is all jointly owned property and monies are considered during a divorce.” And, perhaps even more importantly, all liabilities, such as an underwater home, student loans or credit card debt, are considered and often divided up during the dissolution of a marriage as well. In our 50s, 60s and Beyond Fiction: Thanks to all my hard work and success, it’s time to downsize and enjoy! Fact: “Sure, you’ve worked long and hard – but too many women assume they can just simply collect on retirement and just sell off unnecessary assets, like a large family home, as needed to replace their regular paycheck once they hit a magic age,” says Pedersen. The truth is there is an art and science to liquidating savings, investments and other assets, and timing is critical. “Without planning, women may run the risk of taxes and penalties that can add up to a considerable amount,” says Pedersen. “Similarly as critical – understanding your tax bracket, which will most likely be lower, due to a lower income, once you retire.” Fiction: My estate will automatically go to my kids. Fact: “Never assume anything – especially when it comes to distribution of your assets after you are gone,” says Pedersen. “Many women assume their estates will automatically go to their spouse and/or children, but without an actual will, anything goes. The state or other relatives can get involved. And what happens if your spouse remarries without a will? “You need to protect those you love, not to mention yourself,” says Pedersen. “Knowledge is power. Get educated. Get informed. Get help if you need it.”
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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Stay Cool in a Scottsdale City Pool A lazy river. Water slides. Zero-depth entry. Spray pads. We’re not talking about our worldfamous resorts pools. These are amenities you can find at Scottsdale’s public swimming pools. With temperatures climbing, there’s no time like the present to start thinking about how you’re going to stay cool this summer. Swimming may be one of the best, easiest and cheapest options. While about half of the Valley households have a backyard pool, taking a dip at a Scottsdale public pool is a tempting alternative. Scottsdale aquatic centers provide amenities that most of us don’t have at home - things like water slides, a lazy river, swim lessons and water aerobics classes! Visiting a public pool provides a nice change of scenery for our long summer. Diving into one of Scottsdale’s public pools adds a whole new “cool” to the experience. And it seems we offer something for everyone! Take the Schwickert family for example. Although they have a pool at home, they enjoy the many activities Scottsdale’s aquatic centers offer. Birgit and Markus Schwickert and their five children moved to Scottsdale from Austin about two years ago. They immediately began looking for a synchro swim team for their now 10-year-old daughter Maya. They were able to find what Maya needed at McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center. While there, they discovered the variety and abundance of other swim programs for their other four children – Marvin, 12, Max, 8 and twins Mik and Mona, 5. Mom Birgit says that in Texas, they had to send their kids to private indoor pools and pay a lot of money for lessons. 22
SUMMER 2015
“I really appreciate the high caliber programs here – and at reasonable prices,” she says. While the family lives closest to McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center, they’ve taken advantage of the activities and events at other city pools, too. Four Cool Pools The city has four pools that offer various amenities, features and hours. They include: Cactus Aquatic and Fitness Center, 7202 E. Cactus Road: Olympic-size pool; 12-24 lap lanes; and three 1-meter and two 3-meter diving boards. Chaparral Aquatic Center, 5401 N. Hayden Road: one of the only municipal “free form” pools in the state; zero-depth entry; interactive water features; shallow wading area; 10 lap lanes; and diving well with a 1-meter board. Eldorado Aquatic and Fitness Center, 2301 N. Miller Road: 13-lane, 25-yard lap pool; diving well with four boards; two water slides; zero-depth entry; and water playground. McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center, 15525 N. Thompson Peak Parkway: eight-lane, 25-yard lap pool; dive well with four boards; giant tube slide; 600-foot lazy river; zero-depth entry; and water play features. Cactus, Eldorado and McDowell Mountain Ranch pools are open yearround for lap swim. They will open for public swim from 1 to 5 p.m. weekends starting May 2, then every day in June and July. Weekend hours resume in August. Chaparral Aquatic Center will be open June 1 through July 23. Public swim will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday. All four pools offer swim lessons and water aerobics classes. Summer Family Passes While our pool amenities rival those at
our resorts, the prices don’t. We offer an affordable Summer Family Pass (family of four) starting at $99 for residents. There is a fee for additional family members. The $99 pass gets you into Cactus, Chaparral and Eldorado aquatic centers; a $140 pass will also get you into McDowell Mountain Ranch. The family pass is good for unlimited visits Memorial Day through Labor Day. Prices increase when purchased after Memorial Day. Drop-in and other rates based on how many times you expect to visit also are available. There are no membership fees. Cool Pool “Good to Knows!” As if the pool services and amenities aren’t enough, the city also offers these over-and-above options. Group reservations: Groups can reserve dates at any of the four pools. This is ideal for large groups, summer camps or private organizations that don’t have on-site swimming facilities. Lifeguards are provided. Birthday Party Packages: Two birthday packages are available at the McDowell Mountain Ranch and Eldorado aquatic centers. Prices start at $100. Contact the pools directly for details. Private Rentals: New! McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center is available for private rentals from 6 to 9 p.m. Saturdays, May through August (July 4 excluded). A private rental includes admission for up to 600 guests, full access to the lap pool, lazy river, leisure pool, slide and diving boards. Use of grills, the kitchen and meeting room is also included. The city provides 20 lifeguards and two assistant managers on-site. Private rentals cost $1,565 for residents. For more information about Scottsdale’s Aquatic Centers, visit www. ScottsdaleAZ.gov/sports/aquatics or call 480-312-6677.
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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle
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Freestyle summer Weekends
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