e News Around Our Neighborhood
Mailed to homes in Scottsdale Ranch, Ancala and in the surrounding communities.
Expert holding workshops to teach adults and teens proper etiquette
By Becky Bracken
In a world where tweets and texts are rapidly replacing personal day-to-day interactions, basic etiquette is becoming a lost art. Whether adults are looking to improve their professional interactions or teens who need to build basic social graces, SueAnn Brown is an expert who can help. Brown will be holding area workshops for both teens and adults in March that put manners front-and-center and help attendees master the finer points of managing inter-personal relationships and exchanges.
Redfield 4th grader wins Scottsdale district spelling bee
By Becky Bracken
After winning the Scottsdale Unified School District Spelling Bee for the second year in a row, fourth grader Omkar Bharath says he felt euphoric. And then, naturally, he spelled it: “e-u-p-h-o-r-i-c.”
But Omkar isn’t your prototypical spellbot, intensely practicing day and night for the next bee. He’s a humble, well-rounded kid and everyone at his school, Redfield elementary, seems to genuinely like and admire him. He’s been attending Redfield since kindergarten, and the school’s principal, Christine Bonow is obviously very proud of her champion speller. Etiquette ...continued on page 6
...continued on page 8
(Special to Nearby News)
SueAnn Brown teaches table manners to young students.
(Larry Mangino/Nearby News Photographer) Redfield Elementary School district spelling champ Omkar Bharath
Mike Stewart of Scottsdale enjoys a day at a local dog park with Macy and Cody.
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Steve T. Strickbine
Editor in Chief
Roberta J. Peterson
Managing Editor Becky Bracken
Associate Editor
Srianthi Perera
Graphic Design
Tonya Mildenberg
Administration Courtney Oldham
Contributors
Jan D’Atri, Kim Hosey, Ken LaFave, Nancy Norman, Jill Pertler, Scott Shumaker
Contact the Nearby News at 480-898-5614 • Fax: 480-898-5606
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NearbyNews
The Ranch Report is published monthly and distributed to 10,000 residences and businesses within North Scottsdale. (Approx. 8,000 mailed directly to homes and 2,000 distributed on newsstands, and in several hundred high-traffic locations throughout the community.)
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PUZZLE EDITOR
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OR, you may now submit via email by typing in your four words and Today’s Word with “Scramblers puzzle” in the message line. Send it to: editor@NearbyNews.com.
This month’s lucky winner is Rachel Oconnor Here is the correct puzzle from last month:
Watch for our announcement of the winner in next month’s edition. If you see your name, contact us by April 7, 2017, to claim your prize. Good luck!
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Photo: Larry Mangino
community spotlight
‘Arizona toy experts’ invite local kids to play
By Becky Bracken
Toys & Playtime Oasis is owned by husband and wife team Sari & Sam Powazek, who this year are celebrating 40 years owning a children’s toy store in Scottsdale.
e Scottsdale mom-and-pop toy paradise doubles as a completely child-proof indoor play space that also happens to sell all kinds of different toys, games, books, puzzles and arts and crafts. And if you’re stuck without an idea of what to buy for the kiddo in your life, Sari and Sam are always willing to help with a recommendation.
“During the past 40 years of owning a toy store, we have had the pleasure of watching many children grow up and now we’re meeting and selling toys to their own children and grandchildren,” Sari says. “We feel very blessed to have made a lasting impression on so many families and to still be a part of their lives.”
Toys & Playtime Oasis has been specially designed for young children –ages 5 and under – as an indoor play space with dozens of different toys, games, books, puzzles, climbing equipment and more. ere are also comfortable couches so parents and grandparents can relax. Parents and children are encouraged to stay and play together for several hours.
Toys & Playtime Oasis was formerly known as e Doll House & Toy Store. e business name was changed two years ago when they opened their Playtime Oasis indoor play space. Sari and Sam are also the proud grandparents of 6-year-old twin grandsons – their very own “toy testers.”
Cost to play at Playtime Oasis is $10 per child and free for adults. e entire space can be rented on the weekends for private parties. ere are also several weekly activity classes and special monthly events offered.
For More Information: Call 480-948-4630 or visit azdollhouse.com
Toys & Playtime Oasis Events
Munch Bunch with Grandparents
Every Monday morning Toys & Playtime Oasis invites all grandparents to come in and play with their grandkids and make some happy memories together. Complimentary treats and coffee will be served.
When: Monday mornings, 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Cost: $10 per child and free cost for adults. Socks must be worn.
Activity Time
Bring your baby, or preschooler and enjoy 30 minutes of unstructured play time. Then you and your child will spend 30 minutes learning finger play songs and playing with puppets, musical instruments, hearing stories, nursery rhymes, and dancing in two structured segments with Storybook Entertainment – a professional children’s entertainment company.
When: Tuesday & Wednesday mornings, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Cost: $7.50 per child for the one-hour session or $10 per child for the class and then stay to play. No cost for adults. Socks must be worn.
Trolls Party
Calling all fans of the movie “Trolls!” for a special Trolls-themed party. Children will get to pose for photos with a Troll, play games, enjoy arts and crafts activities, eat delicious refreshments, and more.
When: Sunday, March 19, 10 a.m. - noon
Cost: $12.50 per person. Advanced registration is required. Socks must be worn.
Special Needs Playdate
Children, ages 5 and under, with any kind of special needs are invited to come play and socialize with others. Siblings are welcome.
When: March 26, 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Cost: $10 per child, free for parents. Socks must be worn.
Etiquette ...continued from page 1
“Formal etiquette training for both children and adults is definitely making a comeback,” says SueAnn Brown, a certified etiquette instructor.
“Many adults and business professionals sign up for my classes because they want to polish their personal and professional image
and
e topics that Brown teaches during her adult workshops include: making a positive first impression, shaking hands with eye contact, appropriate attire, grooming and image, remembering names, how to mingle at social gatherings, how to make small talk, dining skills and table manners, and cell phone etiquette.
Brown says many parents in Scottsdale are enrolling their children and teens in her classes because formal etiquette training is no longer being taught in schools and, “as much as parents do try teaching proper manners and etiquette, sometimes kids just need to learn these important lessons from another adult.
I have successfully figured out how to make learning about proper manners fun and entertaining.”
She teaches similar topics to children and teens, but also includes how to speak with the right tone with clarity, leadership qualities, how to make a positive first impression, invitations and thankyou notes, techno-etiquette and social networking, dating etiquette,
common courtesies in public places, interviewing tips for college and job interviews, dressing the part, and follow-up calls.
“Students need to learn proper manners and social skills now more than ever, because competition for acceptance into colleges and good jobs is becoming increasingly tough. ose who possess social skills that are welldeveloped and natural will stand out in the crowd and have a big leg up on their peers,” Brown adds.
“Respecting and valuing others, developing high integrity and making others feel at ease are the key reasons society practices good manners.”
Brown’s etiquette workshop for adults is on March 4, and her 4-hour teen workshop is March 18. Both will be held at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Church.
Brown’s young students learn table manners basics.
Bee ...continued from page 1
“Ever since kindergarten, he’s been easy going, nothing rattles him,” Bonow says about Omkar. “He’s got lots of friends, he’s involved in many things; he’s the total package.”
After 15 rounds of words, Omkar won the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) annual Spelling Bee held Jan. 20 at Arcadia High School. Now he advances to the regional bee.
To win the district bee, Omkar bested 23 bee winners from other SUSD elementary, middle and K-8 schools. e winning word was “magnesium.”
Omkar says he keeps the trophy he won in his room.
His secret to studying for spelling competitions sounds laid back, especially considering how successful he’s been. Prior to winning the two district bees, Omkar won his school spelling bee at 7 years old, even though he was too young to advance
to compete against kids as old as eighth graders at the district-wide spelling bee.
“I would, say, do a half-hour-long study period on a certain subject, then take a break and do some of those study periods every day,” Omkar suggested. “ en I get to know all about a certain subject and all the words in that.”
He also credits his spelling ability to his love of reading and books.
For parents hoping to coach their kids into being the next spelling champ, Bonow says it’s important to let students find their own way into the activities they love and are passionate about.
“Follow your child’s lead,” she says. “Really listen and expose your child to many different things.” en, she adds, students can discover where their own talents lie, whether it’s spelling, science, sports or the arts.
(Special to Nearby News)
Joining Omkar in representing SUSD in the Region II Spelling Bee on Feb. 17 were the five runners-up from the SUSD competition: Gabriella Tadio, 7th grade, Desert Canyon Middle School; Dean Alkhairy, 5th grade, Kiva Elementary School; Max Greenspan, 5th grade, Cherokee Elementary School; Tanner Hertz, 5th grade, Copper Ridge School; and Andrew Pham, 5th grade, Pueblo Elementary School.
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LINDA BACON
Preview sleep-away summer camp
By Nearby News Staff
Are you thinking of sending your child to a sleep-away camp for the first time this summer? If so, Scottsdale Country Day School is hosting a free event that both parents and children are invited to attend to learn more about the camp experience.
On Tuesday, March 14, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., the Director of Friendly Pines Camp in Prescott, Kevin Nissen, will offer a presentation and discuss
all the emotional and physical benefits children experience when they attend a summer sleep-away camp. Gifts and door prizes will be awarded. Advanced registration is required, as space is limited.
Friendly Pines Camp is available for children ages 6 through 13 and offers a wide range of traditional camp activities: sports, horseback riding, waterskiing, rock climbing, perform-
ing arts, fine arts, pets, hiking, canoe, kayaking and more.
Camp will run from June 11 through July 22. e camp will celebrate its 77th summer this year.
top 10 family events
February 20,2017 - March 20,2017
Spring Training
Watch the Diamondbacks and Rockies take on other Major League Baseball teams almost daily.
When: Feb. 23-March 28, Times vary (typically 1:05 p.m.)
Where: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, 7555 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: $11-$26
Info: 480-270-5000 or saltriverfields.com
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
Watch a free outdoor screening of the the hit Star Wars film, plus eat snacks and participate in a costume contest.
When: Friday, Feb. 24, 6-10 p.m.
Where: Mountain View Park, 8625 E. Mountain View Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: Free Info: 480-312-2456 or scottsdaleaz.gov
Disney in Concert
See and hear your favorite Disney scenes performed by a live orchestra and Broadway vocalists.
When: Friday-Sunday, Feb. 24-26, Times vary
Where: Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix
Cost: $49-$125
Info: Phone or tickets phoenixsymphony.org
Spring Training Festival
Celebrate Spring Training at this free event that includes baseball exhibits, hands-on activities, games, former players, live music and more.
When: Saturday, March 4, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale
Cost: Free Info: 480-312-3111 or scottsdaleaz.gov
53rd Annual Phoenix Scottish Games
Don your kilt for a weekend of bagpipes, highland dancing, historic reenactements, and – of course –traditional Scottish games.
When: Saturday-Sunday, March 4-5, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix Cost: $20 adults, $5 ages 6-12, $15 seniors/military; buy in advance for lower prices Info: Phone or arizonascots.com
Butterfly Pavilion
Check out the new 3,200 square foot butterfly exhibit at Desert Botanical Garden. Grand opening
weekend offers guided tours, face painting and more fun.
When: Opens Saturday-Sunday, March 4-5, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; daily through May 14
Where: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
Cost: $22 adults, $12 students 13-18, $10 ages 3-12, $20 seniors Info: 480-941-1225 or dbg.org
Ostrich Festival
If ostrich races aren’t enough to interest you in attending, this festival also offers live entertainment, carnival rides and games, animal demonstrations, food and more.
When: Friday-Sunday, March 10-12, Times Vary
Where: Tumbleweed Park, 2250 S. McQueen Rd., Chandler
Cost: $10 adults, $7 ages 5-12 and seniors, Free under 5
Info: 480-588-8497 or ostrichfestival.com
Ancient Technology Day
Hands-on activities demonstrate how ancient peoples made jewelry and tools, and got and prepared food.
When: Saturday, Feb. 11, 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m.
Where: Pueblo Grande Museum, 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix
Cost: $6 adults, Free ages 17 and under
Info: 602-495-0900 or pueblogrande.com
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Faire
Watch a fun parade of floats, bagpipers and more, then enjoy a faire that offers Irish music, dance, crafts, food and more family-friendly fun.
When: Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m.
Where: 3rd St. from Virginia to McDowell (parade); Irish Cultural Center, 1106 N. Central Ave., Phoenix (faire)
Cost: Free (parade); $10 adults, Free ages 12 and under, $8 seniors and military (faire)
Info: stpatricksdayphoenix.org
Arizona Aloha Festival
Celebrate Hawaiian and South Pacific culture, including dance, music, crafts, games and food. Plus, enter a raffle to win a Hawaiian vacation.
When: Saturday-Sunday, March 11-12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Tempe Beach Park, 80 W Rio
family-friendly ambience and world-class amenities
Student chronicles
Jana Froehle of Scottsdale was one of over 200 Cornell College students named to the Dean’s List for the Fall 2016 semester.
WFroehle also earned Honors. Honors signifies a semester grade point average of 3.6 to 3.79.
hether you want to test your golf game, or dine with your closest friends and family, Ancala Country Club is about living an active and healthy lifestyle – bringing our community together to enjoy life, strengthen bonds, and build new relationships.
We invite you to join one of Scottsdale’s distinguished golf and recreational facilities with over 2.7 million dollars in improvements, and a year-long schedule of events designed to engage and delight every member of the family. Take a tour today!
Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, is a national liberal arts college with a distinctive One Course At A Time curriculum. e One Course schedule provides students the chance to dive into their studies, focus more intensely on the disciplines of their choice, and learn authentically with the unique freedom to shed the confines of the traditional classroom to study off-campus, pursue research, or accept an internship – all without missing out on other classes.
Jordan Butt of Scottsdale has qualified for the Fall 2016 Dean’s List. To make Dean’s List, students must have at least a 3.4 GPA and can get no grade lower than a C.
Home to nearly 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students and offering more than 80 rigorous majors, Seton Hall’s academic excellence has been
singled out for distinction by e Princeton Review, US News & World Report and Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Sadie Barton of Scottsdale excelled during the Fall 2016 semester at Hofstra University, achieving a GPA of at least 3.5 to earn a spot on the Dean’s List.
Hofstra is a nationally ranked private university just 25 miles from New York City and all its cultural, recreational and professional opportunities.
Jaron Ahmann of Scottsdale has been named to the Deans’ List at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for the fall semester of the 2016-17 academic year. Ahmann, a senior Computer Science major, was named to the Dean’s List for the College of Arts and Sciences.
More than 4,500 students at Nebraska have been named to the Deans’ List for the fall semester of the 201617 academic year. To be named to the Dean’s List for the College of Arts and Sciences at the University, the student must have a grade point average of at least 3.7.
6 months!
Experience Ireland at the MIM just in time for St. Patrick’s Day
By Nearby News Staff
If you’re in the mood for more than green-tinted beer this year, check out Scottsdale’s Musical Instrument Museum’s sixth annual celebration of Irish music and culture for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration the whole family can enjoy.
e Experience Ireland all-day event, which takes place throughout the day on Saturday, March 11 and Sunday, March 12, includes live music and dance performances, like Irish step dancing by students of the Maguire Academy of Irish Dance, and sounds of the Celtic harp, complete with a handson musical demonstrations and workshops.
dance performances, like a Irish folk tradition of storytelling. And rhythms your
play rhythms on your very own Irish drum, a bodhrán, which is played in Irish traditional music with a special drumstick called a “tipper.”
Listen to centuries-old oral narratives that have been told around the fireside for generations in a Culture Talk on the Irish folk tradition of storytelling. And
And, of course, don’t miss the chance to indulge in a special Irish-inspired menu available for purchase at MIM’s Café Allegro.
Isle. Green food coloring is
Experience Ireland at MIM is a great way to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day by exploring Irish culture and traditions of the Emerald Isle. Green food coloring is optional.
When: Saturday and Sunday, March 11 and 12, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Where: 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ 85050 Info: MIM.org
events calendar
February 20,2017 - March 20,2017
Arizona Fine Art Expo
Tour more than 100 artists studios and watch painters, sculptors, metal workers and other artisans create their works. Talk to the artists and learn more about their process and history.
When: Daily, Feb. 20-March 26, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Where: 26540 N. Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale
Cost: Free
Info: 480-837-7163 or arizonafineartexpo.com
Celebration of Fine Art
Now entering its 27th year, this art show gives you access to more than 100 studios. You can meet artists and watch them work. Plus, take in the larger outdoor sculpture court.
When: Daily, Feb. 20 – March 26, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: 18400 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: $10 adult, $8 seniors/military, Free for kids under 12. Tickets are season passes. Info: 480-443-7695 or celebrateart.com
Shredding Event
Don’t leave important info lying around the house. Get rid of your sensitive personal or commercial documents with an industrial-grade shredding service.
When: Saturday, March 4, 7 - 10 a.m.
Where: Walmart parking lot, 15355 N. Northsight Blvd., Scottsdale Cost: $3 per box Info: scottsdaleaz.gov
SPRING TRAINING SPRINGGuide
Electronic Recycling Day
Get rid of your dusty old computer, office and entertainment electronics without paying any of the usual fees.
When: Saturday, March 4, 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Where: Scottsdale North Corporation
Yard, 9191 E. San Salvador Dr., Scottsdale
Cost: Free Info: scottsdaleaz.gov
Kid’s Night Out
Drop the kids off for a carnival to celebrate Purim. Pre-K-5 ages get a bouncy house, carnival games and a screening of Pixar’s “Cars.” Ages 5-8 get a Havdalah mixer and Laser Quest.
When: Saturday, March 4, 6 - 10 p.m.
Where: Valley of the Sun JCC, 12701 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: $35 (grades Pre-K-5), $50 (grades 5-8)
Info: 480-483-7121 or vosjcc.org
Concordia Choir
Enjoy a range of musical styles from one of the world’s finest a cappella choirs.
When: Saturday, March 4, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: $25 GA, $40 Premium, Free for students
Info: 480-303-2474 or pinnacleconcerts.com
Goodguys 8th Spring Nationals Car Show
Look at more than 2,500 hots rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and more pre-’73 vehicles.
When: Friday-Sunday, March 10-12, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: $20 adults ($17 online), $6 ages 7-12, Free ages 6 and under, $5 parking Info: 925-838-9876 or good-guys.com
64th Annual Parada del Sol Rodeo 2017
Modern cowboys and cowgirls tackle bucking broncos, bareback riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing and more.
When: Thursday-Saturday, March 9-11, 7 p.m.; Sunday, March 12, 2 p.m.
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale Cost: $25-$45
Info: 480-648-4369 or paradadelsol.net
‘All The Light We Cannot See’
A lighthouse keeper and his wife who raise an infant washed ashore. Starring Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz.
When: Tuesday, March 14, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
Where: Mustang Library, 10101 N. 90th St., Scottsdale
Cost: Free Info: 480-312-7323 or scottsdalelibrary.org
Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn
Two of the most accomplished banjo players in the world present a concert like no other.
When: Tuesday, March 14, 7:30 p.m.
Scottsdale Concert Band
Enjoy a community performance of Gershwin’s jazzy “Rhapsody in Blue” from the 75-piece Scottsdale Concert Band.
Where: Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale
Cost: $39-$59
Info: 480-499-8587 or scottsdaleperformingarts.org
LPGA Founders Cup
The biggest names in ladies golf play 72 holes for $1.5 million. Proceds go to the Girls Golf Program.
When: Sunday, March 5, 3:30 p.m.
Where: Chaparral High School Auditorium, 6935 E. Gold Dust Ave., Scottsdale
Cost: Free Info: 602-327-3168 or scottsdaleconcertband.org
The Four Freshmen
Drawing inspiration from The Beach Boys, The Mamas & The Papas, and Frankie Valli, this longstanding group provides its own twist on favorite tunes in addition to original numbers.
When: Friday, March 10, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, 25150 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale Cost: $30 GA, $45 Premium, Free for students Info: 480-303-2474 or pinnacleconcerts.com
When: Tuesday-Sunday, March 14-19, Times vary
Where: Wildfire Golf Club, 19224 N. Tatum Blvd., Phoenix
Cost: $27 ($20 online) per day or $65 ($50 online) for the week; $5 parking Info: 386-236-1369 or lpgafounderscup.com
Off-Road Expo
Drool over the latest off-road vehicles, go on ride-a-longs, watch off-road racing demos, shop for parts, talk to industry experts and more.
When: Saturday-Sunday, March 18-19, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale
Cost: $19 adult ($15 online), $6 ages 6-12, Free kids under 6 Info: 317-236-6515 or offroadexpo.com
around the neighborhood
1. Lesly Olaiz and Cindy Salinas of Scottsdale were excited to eat tasty crepes at the Street Eats food truck fest at Salt River Fields. 2. Max Moseley, 8, goes long for a pass at McCormick Ranch Railroad park. 3. Tyson Walz helps his daughter, Caydence Walz, stand still for her airbrush tattoo at the Street Eats food truck festival at the Salt River Fields. 4. David Ritche and Rocio Northrop with Vixen. 5. Luis Deleon shows off his snow cone at Street Eats food fest. 6. Dyana Cairfalia of Scottsdale enjoys an afternoon run along the Indian bend Wash trail. 7. Teddy Shonka and 7-month-old Bear finish their day near McCormick Ranch.
Photos by Kim Carillo and Larry Mangino
By Jan D’Atri
French Macarons–Still a Craze? what’s cooking?
Macarons! How they got to be such a huge craze, I’m not sure. But something had to be “the next” when the cupcake craze started slowing, and French Macarons were in the right place at the right time!
I can tell you how it all started for me. It was my 11-year-old niece Julia who came running into my kitchen with her “Beginner’s Macaron Kit.” Of course I saw it as another opportunity to be the kind of Auntie that I always wanted as a little girl, with that “yeswe-can-do-anything-together-and have-fun” kind of spirit. My second reaction was sheer panic. Um... Macarons? As in French Macarons? As in extremely-tricky-most-peoplefail-at-first Macarons? But – never let em see you sweat – and this would be a great time to put that philosophy
into practice. Could I really let Julia down? e little gal that wears an apron embroidered with the phrase “What Would Julia Do? “Well, what would Julia do? After reviewing Julia Child’s Macaron recipe, I decided to hunt for a simpler version, and I found it. So here’s the big picture. ere are only five ingredients to French Macarons, so that’s not the challenge. It’s the technique that’s a bit tricky. But these gorgeous gourmet treats are worth the effort. Especially for Julia.
FRENCH MACARONS
Ingredients:
- 4.5 oz. almond flour or almond powder (approx. 1 cup plus 3 tablespoons)
- 8 oz. powdered sugar (2 cups)
- 4.5 oz. egg whites, room temperature (4 large eggs)
- 1/8 teaspoon cream of tarter
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 oz. fine granulated sugar
Directions:
Step #1: In a food processor, combine almond powder and powdered sugar and blend to obtain a fine powder. Sift into a bowl. Repeat sifting.
Step #2: In a mixing bowl with electric beater, whisk egg whites until foamy, about 1 minute. Add pinch of cream of tartar and salt. Whisk until meringue begins to thicken. Slowly add fine granulated sugar, a little at a time. Whisk on high until egg whites have texture of shaving foam with soft peaks.
Step #3: Add sifted almond mixture to the egg whites. Using a
silicon or plastic spatula, gently fold mixture until almond powder and egg whites are fully incorporated. Mixture is done when it is smooth, shiny and slightly runny (like a cake batter). Do not mix beyond this point. If using a coloring or flavor, it must be done at this point.
Step #4: Place mixture in a piping bag with an approximate quarter of an inch opening for the tip. Pipe about a nickel size of mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone pad, about 1 inch apart.
IMPORTANT!
Set baking sheet on counter for about 30 minutes at room temperature until a slight crust develops over macarons.
Step #5: Bake at 325 degrees (use standard bake element and not convection) for about 15 minutes. Allow baking sheets to cool and maracons to harden before lifting them away from baking sheet. When cool, fill with icing of your choice like butter cream icing or ganache.
(Photo Credit/Jan D’Atri)
on the town
By Kenneth LaFave
Zen and the art of Asian fusion
Asian fusion is peaking. Restaurants touting a blend of recipes and flavors from Japan, ailand, Korea and regions of China are almost as common as craft-beer restaurants.
e only way for a new Asian fusion place to stand out is to offer the highest quality, along with twists on traditional recipes and the expected range of flavors.
Which brings us to Zen Culinary. Zen Culinary, which opened in December, is located amid the mess of concrete and quick-food joints that snarl the area of the 101 and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard. It’s a little hard to find, but when you do and you walk through the door, suddenly, you are in Asia: the design is modern, but the smells are seafood
and soy and whisky. Booths are cozy; choose a table if you need ample space. More importantly, the people are welcoming. Service at the Valley’s newest ode to Asia is never rushed, and always concerned to answer your questions and cater to your needs.
Zen Culinary features soups, salads, curries, rice and noodle dishes at moderate prices. If an entrée is your plan, however, expect things to get a bit pricey. ere aren’t many of them: eight, to be exact. For a young restaurant still developing its menu, that’s not unusual. Entrée prices range from $22 for baby back ribs in Koreanstyle barbecue fashion with kimchi, to $56 for bone-in prime ribeye. e latter bears no sign of Asian influence, but I imagine it would satisfy the
demanding meat-eater in your party. My companion and I chose something between the extremes: Smoked Tea Seabass, $36. e key to great seabass is that the preparation doesn’t overwhelm the fish. At Zen Culinary, the fish is brined in lapsang souchong, the smoky Chinese tea that tastes like liquid campfire. eir recipe also calls for a ginger-infused soy, and between these two ingredients, the fish is enlivened without losing any of its richness. e result, accompanied by perfectly grilled asparagus, is worth is own zen
koan: What is both toothsome and smoky? Answer: eat this entrée. ere’s also a sushi bar, and a wellstocked liquor bar featuring Japanese whiskies.
Dessert is not listed, but ask your server for the chocolate cake made on premises.
business spotlight
Wow 1 Day Painting is all about speedy service
By Srianthi Perera
If you think a painting project should take a week or longer to produce good results, think again.
Wow 1 Day Painting Scottsdale takes pride in completing any job in a day.
e franchise, which mainly serves Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Carefree, Cave Creek, Fountain Hills and Phoenix, is owned by Scottsdale lawyer Lee Best, who came across it following a painting project at his mom’s house that took three long weeks to finish.
“ e painter we worked with was a great guy, always on-time, professional and friendly, but we figured there has to be a more efficient way to do this,” Best said. “ ree weeks is a long time.” Best’s research led him to Wow 1 Day Painting. e franchise owner
still operates Best Law Firm, which he opened in 2007.
e painting company promises to deliver quality work by skilled painters and a top-notch customer experience, all in one day.
After the client has approved the estimate, a representative will meet the customer to discuss colors and next steps.
If the client approves, on the appointed day the uniformed painters arrive in a large crew – depending on the size of the job – and begin work, with minimal disruption to the space.
e painting contractors are chosen for their friendly manner and good communication skills.
By the end of the day, the project
would be completed and the client would be asked to accompany the contractors on a walk through.
at’s when they are expected to say “Wow!”
Afterward, a followup process collects information on the customer’s satisfaction of the job. One aim of this particular step is to increase referrals.
e company works with customers who are moving, in need of a home make over or selling their homes. It also works with property managers, realtors, moving companies and designers to provide its brand of stress-free experience.
Candian-based founder Brian Scudamore spotted the opportunity to build an exceptional brand in the painting industry when he encountered the innovative concept of one-day painting.
In this day and age of instant gratification, Scudamore saw its potential. He launched Wow 1 Day Painting with a promise to deliver quality work by skilled painters and a top-notch customer experience, all in
Best, who owns the
Best, who owns the only franchise location in Arizona, divides his time between the law and painting.
“We have a successful law practice, but we’re worn out from the constant stress and pressure of the legal world. We found Wow and we decided to open a ‘happier’ business,” he said.
For
More Information:
Location: 14362 Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. #1000, Scottsdale. Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Call 888-969-1329, write to scottsdale@wow1day.com or visit our website at wow1day. com/locations/house-paintingscottsdale one day.
Brighton Ranch Paint and Body offers relief after a car collision
By Srianthi Perera
Automotive industry veteran Mark House has run the Brighton Ranch Paint and Body in Scottsdale for about four years.
“We’re one of the top-rated shops in Scottsdale,” House said.
e owner emphasized the individualized service it offers to owners grappling with a broken vehicle.
“We’re a smaller shop, so it’s personal. It’s not ‘you’re a number.’ Your car isn’t just in line. We try to go overboard to give a customer-oriented service.”
Brighton Ranch Paint and Body used to be a vehicle restoration shop called Ranch Auto Body, but under House’s ownership, the emphasis is on collision repair.
e seven-member team at Brighton Ranch Paint and Body repairs about 50 vehicles each month.
“We’re just trying to take it to the next level; it needs to grow,” House said. “We’re the only independently owned shop (in the area).”
“We’re really fortunate to have a bunch of guys who care about what
the customer thinks about their work. So it’s nice for me, because we put out top-quality work and that’s the type of people we hire.”
House and his wife, Lyn, moved to the Scottsdale from Nebraska six years ago “to get out of the cold weather.” Two of their three adult sons live in Arizona as well.
Despite the achievements of his Scottsdale business, House acknowledged the challenges he constantly faces. Among them, the fierce competition.
“You have big corporation shops that work with the insurance companies. We’re making it work because we market from a standpoint of, we want to take care of first the customer and then the car and not the other way around,” he said.
(Special to Nearby News)
CorePump Red offers smarter work out
By Becky Bracken
Scottsdale is now home to what some are calling the “smartest workout on earth.” Last month, ESOS Lifestyle Center introduced a new fitness class, CorePump Red, for individuals of all abilities that combines a new kind of workout equipment with infared light to boost results.
CorePump Red, located at Shea and the 101, is a new workout concept created by local fitness expert and CorePump inventor Samuel Colby.
e 45-minute classes involve exercising and stretching on a CorePump machine, which utilizes isokinetic resistance under nearinfrared lighting while listening to isochronic frequencies.
“ is is the future of fitness,” says Colby, who has owned ESOS Lifestyle Center for four years.
“We’ve built a machine that eliminates an entire gym and created this unique concept that helps anyone reach their health goals.”
e CorePump machine hit the fitness market last summer. It takes up less than four square feet of floor space and is touted by Colby as the safest way for anyone to strength train.
It features a fully adjustable pedestal platform, six adjustable settings of smart resistance and 66 handle positions, which allow you to perform hundreds of exercises and stretches, Colby says. It works for all types of fitness enthusiasts, athletes, rehab patients, and anyone looking to get in shape, he adds.
With its bold styling, premium materials and room for up to nine passengers, it’s the new standard in full-size utility.
Colby decided to incorporate nearinfrared lighting in his CorePump fitness classes for several reasons. “It boosts metabolism, reduces body fat, increases energy, improves circulation and endurance, increases strength, detoxifies the body and even reduces cellulite,” he says.
Under the upbeat music playing throughout class, Colby adds, ,isochronic tones are also playing, which helps individuals focus on the workout.
“Together – the lighting, the music and the machine – it’s completely different than anything out there,” says Colby. “We are biohacking fitness.”
Lastly, as an option for members, Cryotherapy is offered at the end of class. is cold therapy treatment involves the use of extremely low temperatures to treat symptoms such as tissue damage, decrease inflammation, increase cell rejuvenation, improve skin tone and reduce signs of aging, he says.
Individuals can expect to burn 5001500 calories per class, according to Colby. Everyone is offered a free first class to try the workout and memberships start at only $99 per month. Drop-ins are welcome.
In addition to the CorePump Red classes, ESOS Lifestyle Center offers lipo laser body contouring treatments, far infrared sauna sessions, private training, naturopathic medicine, physical therapy, and chiropractic care.
Parking assist, front/rear
Rainsense™ front wiper
Remote Keyless Entry
Automatic climate control
Remote Vehicle Start
Bose ® premium audio
• 8-inch-diagonal Color Touch Radio screen display
• Trailering equipment
• Powerful 5.3L Ecotec V8 engine
• Up to 23 MPG HWY*
LATCH system • Rear Vision Camera
• And much, much more!
(Special to Nearby News)
Classes at ESOS are held under infared light.
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