Public ArtAdds Drama

to Indian BendWash

Summer Savvy: Tips, Deals and more!

Millennium Resort: An Oasis in the Desert

McCormick Ranch LifestyleSUMMER 2010

FEATURES:Millennium Resort: An Oasis in the Desert . . . 12

Public Art Adds Drama to Indian Bend Wash . . .16

The Resort Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4 SUMMER 2010

IN EVERY ISSUE:Market Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Resident Recipe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Four Legged Ranchers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Local Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

LOCAL BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT:

Infinity Kitchen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

1st Scottsdale Dental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Ranch Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Con

tent

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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle is published quarterly by eClaire Publishing, LLC, 7349 N. Via Paseo Del Sur, Suite 515-268 Scottsdale, AZ 85258. Phone 480 212-6203. Fax 480 699-2049. 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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McCormick Ranch LifestyleSUMMER 2010

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 5

LETTER FROM THE

EditorWhen it turns hot, hot, hot, most of us plan our days a little different and seek refuge

in the pool and air conditioning. If you’re looking for a great stay-cation opportunity then don’t miss the Resort Report on page 19 to find what suits your needs. Also, just in time for monsoon season, this issue details the new design of Indian Bend Wash and its dramatic art elements.

During the spring, I was fortunate to participate in a free class on government offered by the City of Scottsdale. Not only did it give me a thorough overview of how different parts of our city are run, but it introduced me to the wonderful employees who manage each department. Even though budgets have been cut, the City continues to provide excellent service that is often taken for granted. One of the most fascinating classes was seeing how traffic is managed within the city. Big brother really is watching from a little room with dozens of tv screens and street-level technology to help make traffic run more smoothly.

Now that the magazine has passed the three year mark, we felt it was time to freshen the design a little. As always, I hope you find the publication appealing and interesting. You can also become a fan of McCormick Ranch Lifestyle on Facebook to get the latest scoop on what’s happening nearby!

Sincerely,

Alexandra Duemeralexandra@mcrlife.com

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6 SUMMER 2010

Market AnalysisThings are looking better for home prices in McCormick

Ranch and 85258. The median home price in 85258 was similar to the prices seen at the end of 2004. This is excellent news because many zip codes in metro Phoenix are looking at prices not seen since the late 1990s. Another good sign for McCormick Ranch homeowners is the median home price was significantly higher in February and March of this year than in February and March of last year (2009).

The high season for home sales in 85258 is March through June so if we were going to see home prices rise; it would likely be during the high season. Hopefully, the median price in 85258 will continue strong through June.

I wish, however, we would have sold more homes in recent months. So far in 2010 (January to March) home sales in 85258 are better than in 2009 but they’re not any better than in 2008 or 2007 and those were terrible years for home prices in 85258. The big question is, “Can we continue to maintain current home prices with below normal home sales?”

Okay, let’s look at McCormick Ranch exclusively. Listed for sale right now in McCormick Ranch I find 107 single family homes, of which 2 are bank-owned and 14 are short sales.

Sold in McCormick Ranch in the last 3 months were 35 single family homes, of which 5 were bank-owned and 7 were short sales. So 34 percent of the homes sold in McCormick Ranch were distressed sales. That’s less than in the previous two issues of “McCormick Ranch Lifestyle” magazine which is good. I hope it’s a trend.

In McCormick Ranch right now, we have 107 homes listed for sale. That means we have the equivalent of a 9-month supply of single family homes for sale. In other words, if no other homes hit the market, it would take us 9 months to sell all of the homes currently listed for sale. That’s not good. I consider a “normal” supply of homes to be a 3-month to 6-month supply. A 9-month supply is pretty high and it makes it tougher to sell a home.

When you look at the average prices of sold homes it’s easy to see why bank-owned foreclosures drive down prices and why foreclosures sell so quickly. The average sold price of the bank-owned homes sold in McCormick Ranch was $137 per square foot. For short sales, the number was $144 per square foot. For normal sales the average sale price was $191 per square foot. That $191 number is actually higher than in the last issue of “McCormick Ranch Lifestyle” magazine… but the other two numbers are lower. That means the price differ-ence between normal and distressed sales actually increased. I didn’t see that coming.

Overall, we’re looking at a real mixed bag of good and bad news for McCormick Ranch homeowners and home sellers. I can’t wait to find out what the market will be like in the next issue of “McCormick Ranch Lifestyle” magazine!

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 7

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It’s hard to tell what interesting and unique services are available when you’re driving past a strip mall at 40mph. But in these times, it’s particularly important for local small business owners to have the support of their community.

Ranch Center is located on the Northeast corner of 90th Street and Via Linda. You may have enjoyed the Mexican food at Ajo Al’s there, but there are some other interesting shops and services tucked within. What’s even more interesting is that, more often than not, when you walk in the door you are dealing with the owner.

Don Mayhaus has owned the The Mail Room for 15 years. Over the years he has made a lot of friendships with his regular clients. One such client boasts, “You are the only person in my life who makes things easier.” And Don prides himself on just that. In addition to offering standard mailing services, he also offers gift wrapping, paper shredding and a variety of unique gift items.

Claudia Daniels of Shop Therapy opened her store front after several successful years on ebay. She had developed alliances with companies like Chico and Bebe and had a good inventory of consignment clothing, handbags and jewelry. Claudia says, “With a background in psychotherapy and a passion for fashion, I know how to help people find what they need.”

Outer Image Salon has been in the Center for 20 years. As a full service salon they offer hair care: experienced colorist and color correction, extensions by Hairlocs, Keratin Smoothing. We offer skin care and nails specializing in acrylic and gel nails and nail art. Visit outerimagesalon.com for special offers!

Opening soon: Simply Sweets. Specializing in custom decorated cakes, cupcakes, chocolate favors and gifts.

Stop in and discover:Spy ShopHiro SushiExpress NailsEuropean AlterationsClassic TravelChristian Science Reading RoomF and W JewelryPrestige CleanersBob Ewing Sports Card

Meet the Faces of

[ 9393 N. 90th Street ]

8 SUMMER 2010

Sports Medicine StoreThe Mail RoomShoe StopIdeal Computer SolutionsCOR ClinicGPS IntelligenceAjo Al’s Mexican CafeOuter Image Salon

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle

• 1 ½ tsp oil • 2 Tbsp diced shallot, about 1 large • Tbsp pureed (mashed) garlic, about 2 cloves • 1 Tbsp minced red jalapeno • 2 ½ cups chicken stock • 1 ½ cups heavy cream • 1 ½ pounds cooked shrimp• 2 cups grated Manchego cheese divided• 2 chipotle pepper seeded and diced• 1 large tomato, diced• 1 Tbsp minced cilantro• 2 tsp fresh lime juice• 1/4 tsp marjoram• 12 (8-inch) flour tortillas, softened

RESIDENT RECIPE by Anne Marie Blanco

1. In a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat, heat the oil until hot.

2. Add the shallots, garlic and jalapeno. Cook briefly, stirring constantly, until softened, 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Add chicken stock and cook until reduced by half.4. Add the cream and continue cooking until reduced by half,

stirring occasionally.5. Stir in shrimp, 1 1/2 cups cheese, chipotle peppers, tomato,

cilantro, lime juice and marjoram. Do not boil or the mixture will separate. Set aside to keep warm.

6. Spoon about 1/4 cup filling into each softened tortilla.7. Roll into a cylinder, and place the filled tortillas seam side

down in an ovenproof casserole.8. Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with

the remaining cheese.9. Preheat broiler. Place the casserole in the oven and broil

just until cheese melts, about 2 to 3 minutes.

with Red Chili Cream SauceSHRIMP ENCHILADAS

Please submit your favorite recipe to editor@mcrlife.com!

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 9

10 SUMMER 2010

Every year, there are nearly 100 water-related incidents in Maricopa County alone. At least half of these incidents involve children and at least half of these events end in fatality.

The following are tips to remind us of our responsibilities near water.

• Never leave a child alone near water.• A few inches of water are enough for a child to drown in.• Advise children to stay away from water unless there is an

adult watching the child.• Avoid any distractions poolside while your child is in or

near the water.• If you are enjoying a party poolside and children are in

attendance, assign an adult to watch the water to ensure all guests are safe in and around the water. Do not assume that someone else is watching your child. A good idea is to rotate this duty every 20 minutes.

• Watch out for slipping hazards.• Watch your young children when using restrooms and,

when at public or resort pools, the change rooms. The tiles are often very slippery and easily cause injury when they slip and fall.

• Don’t let your kids run on the edges of the pool as they may fall and hurt themselves.

All drowning deaths are preventable and those that occur in your home are where your immediate action can make a difference. Home pool fencing and effective supervision can reduce these tragic drowning deaths to zero immediately.

Scottsdale Fire Department has a new program that helps you identify your danger zones. Fire Department representatives will complete a free Water Safety Survey to check your backyard for water hazards and provides some resources so you can remedy any issues or potential dangers.

If you would like more information or would like to schedule your own Water Safety Survey, visit www.scottsdalefd.com or call (480) 312-8000.

To get more tips or information about water safety, be sure to visit the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona website, www.preventdrownings.org.

This information is provided by Lori Schmidt, Public Education Officer for the City of Scottsdale Fire Department and President of Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona.

Water Safety

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 11

With more than 40 years of experience in kitchen and bath countertop and cabinetry design, Ken Williams decided to branch out on his own two years ago with the inception of Infinity Design. The company offers design, sales, and installation of quality kitchen and bath cabinetry and countertops, as well as the services to manage and complete all phases of a remodeling project.

From the first moment a client calls or walks through the door, Ken strives to ensure that the customer is getting what they pay for. “These days, you rarely actually get what you pay for,” he says. But that’s not the case at Infinity Design. “I make sure people get the value for their money, regardless of their budget.”

Using only high-quality materials from manufacturers like Medallion Cabinetry and Caesarstone Quartz Surfaces, Ken prides himself on the ability to work within every client’s budget – from low to luxury. “Rather than just look at price, I really want people to get what they pay for and give them value for their money.” He promises, “We will exceed your expectations.”

He does so by offering only high-quality products at affordable prices, as well as working closely with the client to ensure they get exactly what they want – which sometimes has to be determined before a project can move forward.

“When I initially meet with a client, we first need to determine the look and feel they are after,” Ken explains. “Once we get a direction to head, we can iron out details such as the type of wood,

color, door knobs, and space arrangement for storage.”After a visit to the client’s home to measure the space and

check for any special conditions, Ken creates a virtual project on the computer so the clients can see their dream come to fruition.“From there, we can get additional perspective on the project, look at it from every angle and the client can make changes as they see fit,” he says.

And while Ken admits that any kitchen or bath install or remodel will be an inconvenience for the residents, he tries to make it as painless as possible. “The client needs to understand that at some point during the project, they may be without a sink for a day or two,” he explains. However, staying true to his promise to exceed client expectation, he adds that his team can hook up a temporary sink if the client just can’t make do without one, even for a short time.

Though Ken reveals that his greatest challenge in this economy is to just get people to walk through the door, he maintains his goal to offer the utmost in service, product and execution of a beautiful dream kitchen or bathroom. “Especially in this economy, people are leery about who they can trust [to do business with],” says Ken. “They can trust that through every phase, we’ll be there and we’ll get the job completed in a timely manner. We just offer good, honest work,” he says simply. And these days that is one of the greatest values around.

480-922-5651 / cabdesign.org480-922-5651 / cabdesign.org480-922-5651 / cabdesign.org480-922-5651 / cabdesign.org

Infinity Design

12 SUMMER 2010

Nestled on the bank of Camelback Lake lies the Millenium Resort – a 125-room boutique resort with 51 villas that offers its guest a prime spot to enjoy all that Scottsdale and the McCormick Ranch area have to offer, not to mention it’s own bevy of amenities.

The original hotel, once called The Inn at McCormick Ranch, has evolved dramatically since it was built in 1974, but the quaint beauty, exquisite views and ideal location remain unchanged. In 2000 Millenium, which owns other notable properties such as the Millenium Knickerbocker Hotel in Chicago and Millenium Bostonian Hotel took over, making this location the company’s only resort property.

With more than 30 years in the hotel industry in several major U.S. cities, General Manager David McKee has been with the Millenium Resort Scottsdale since the turnover 10 years ago. He says there is something special about this resort – its people. “We’re one big family here,” according to McKee, whose daughter even works behind the pool bar. “[We have] a great staff, a magical mix of employees who really like each other.” McKee notes that even the housekeeping staff, which in the hotel business generally has a high turnover rate, is part of the family at the Millenium Resort Scottsdale. “Because we offer a yearly incentive bonus to our housekeeping staff, there is no turnover here and they stay happy,” says McKee. Due to this amazing staff, the Millenium Resort Scottsdale holds the highest guests services score within the entire Millenium collection.

Beyond the staff, the resort’s amenities add to its one-of-a-kind

offerings. Golf lovers can tee off at one of two 18-hole PGA golf courses with access to more than 100 local Scottsdale golf courses; sun worshippers can lounge by the newly renovated pool that features a 20-foot horizontal waterfall; and outdoorsy types can play tennis and sand volleyball, and enjoy fishing and boating activities on Camelback Lake.

After a long day of relaxation and play, guests can enjoy a variety of options when it comes to wining and dining. The award-winning Pinon Grill offers Southwestern cuisine morning, noon and night with indoor dining in addition to al fresco dining on the lakeside terrace. Kick back for a casual bite at the Diamondbacks Lounge or order some light bites with a poolside beverage, such as a signature margarita, from the poolside Cool Coyote Cabana Bar.

Though owned by a hotel corporation, the Millenium Resort Scottsdale operates much like a local mom and pop – it likes to be part of the community that it serves. In that vein, the resort works closely with the American Cancer Society, and last year gave away 165 free rooms. It also hosts events for the SHADE Foundation with Shonda and Kurt Schilling. McKee says, “We’re small, so we like to make a difference with one foundation.”

An ideal location for events, meetings, retreats or social gatherings. The Shores Villas offer a unique community aspect to the hotel. Most of the 51 villas are owned as vacation homes so the staff often see the familiar faces of returning visitors. Villas are available for rent with 2-4 bedrooms (up to 2,400 square feet). As a destination for panoramic lakeside weddings, the Millenium also features 10,000 square feet of meeting space.We invite you to

Desertinthe

AnAn

OasisMILLENIUM RESORT:

experience the desert sunset from our Lakeside Pavilion, hosting groups of up to 225 people. All rooms are large and have a private patio or balcony. They have been recently updated to include luxury linens and 40” flat panels as well.

As with most of the local resorts, the Millenium Resort Scottsdale’s busy season is October through April, so summertime provides an opportunity for out-of-towners and locals alike to take advantage of some incredible deals for a vacation or staycation. According to McKee, the resort’s summer specials “keep our staff busy and makes the locals happy.” Win, win!

Desert

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle

14 SUMMER 2010

Your smile is one of the first things others notice about you, and a genuine smile is the simplest way to express emotion during life’s happy moments. If concerns about your teeth stop you from smiling as much as you should, 1st Scottsdale Dental can help.

1st Scottsdale Dental is a full-service dental office that practices preventative, cosmetic and restorative dental care. At the helm is Dr. Ghassan Sroujieh, DDS with over 15 years of experience and a passion for making smiles look their best.

A consistent regimen of good dental hygiene is important to maintaining healthy teeth for life. Daily brushing and flossing in addition to regular dentist visits is both important maintenance and the key to discovering potential problems that need to be corrected. If dental care was overlooked in the past, it is never too late to improve your teeth and your outlook on life.

“A healthy, attractive smile can improve self-confidence and change a person’s life,” says Dr. Sroujieh. At 1st Scottsdale Dental, he employs state-of-the-art cosmetic dentistry to help patients realize the life-changing effects. In addition to revamping smiles with bridges, veneers and whitening treatments, the office features the safest technologies in the field, such as mercury-free fillings and low-radiation digital x-rays.

1st Scottsdale Dental uses the latest technology in dental imaging to ensure safe and accurate placement of dental implants for crowns. The office has partnered with an industry pioneer, SimPlant, which allows dental images captured by CT scan to be transferred to a physical template for use during implant surgery. This template is similar in shape and size to a mouth guard, and it is placed in the mouth during surgery to define the exact drilling depth and location. “Precision is necessary during implant drilling to avoid nerve damage that

could result in paralysis,” says Dr. Sroujieh. The combination of Dr. Sroujieh’s experience and SimPlant’s technology provides patients with confidence and security during this inpatient procedure. Crowns are also designed with the assistance of the panoramic imaging program, allowing for ideal margins and exact sealing that eliminates the possibility of future problems.

While implants and crowns certainly give troubled smiles a drastic improvement, they are also important for jaw health. “When teeth are lost or removed, the surrounding bone degrades, resulting in bone loss,” says Dr. Sroujieh. Placement of an implant acts as a tooth for bone-maintenance purposes and can stop further bone loss from occurring.

In addition to single-tooth implants, 1st Scottsdale Dental also designs and creates implant-supported dentures, which allow greater security and comfort than their standard counterparts. Although traditional dentures may use pastes or suction to hold them in place they can still slide around in the mouth, resulting in difficulty chewing and talking, as well as discomfort and pain associated with an imbalanced bite. Implant-supported dentures are specially designed to work in conjunction with several implants installed in the jaw bone. The dentures lock into place with the implants for complete stability, while providing greater comfort and a more natural appearance.

The Invisalign tooth-straightening technology is another specialty of 1st Scottsdale Dental. This nearly-invisible alternative to braces uses several phases of clear plastic mouthpieces to realign teeth into an attractive and more appropriate formation. Adult orthodontia has become more common in the past two decades, and Invisalign offers a less intrusive way to straighten your teeth.

Located just north of Mountainview on Hayden Rd., make your appointment today for a better looking smile tomorrow!

1st Scottsdale Dental480-922-5555 / royalteeth.com

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle

Name: CocopawPet: Exotic Shorthair PersianParents: Yvonne and JoeLoves: Bird Watching while sitting in the bird bath, playing in the yard, sharpening claws on the Palm trees and eating Spaghetti, hold the marinara sauce!

Dental

Four Legged RanchersMy name is Sydney. I am a senior citizen now (almost 15) so I know what I am talking about. I was adopted from the pound by Jack and Isabel McDougall when I was one year old. That’s when I came to live on McCormick Ranch and I love it here! My favorite hobby is bird watching from my comfy window seat overlooking my wonderful backyard. I often think, “If the guys at the pound could see me now!”

Send your pet photo to

editor@mcrlife.com

Whether you love them or hate them, the five new horse gargoyles on Indian Bend Road certainly take one by surprise and invoke a reaction. As a public art piece for the City of Scottsdale, this project was approved as part of the Indian Bend Wash improvement in 2004 and reached completion in March.

Located between Scottsdale and Hayden roads on the north side of Indian Bend, these metal sculptures were designed by artists Laura Haddad and Tom Drugan. The team’s landscape architecture background, environmental responsiveness, versatility and eloquence with a touch of whimsy best suited the project requirements. The project itself was given a budget of $22 million, for which the art portion received $250,000.

Jana Weldon, Project Manager, says “They are meant to be fierce. With all the history in this area, we wanted a dramatic statement.”

A series of five “horse gargoyles,” constructed of sanded plate Aluminum, directed to the roadway, grace the drop structure atop 3 ft wide stepped charcoal-gray concrete plinths spaced 125-feet apart. The plinth faces are scored with 1” deep chamfered horizontal lines set apart at 2-foot intervals. These markings align with elements both on the bridge and on the features in the south basin to create relationship between all the art features. The equestrian forms reflect the history of the Arabian horses at McCormick Ranch and the aluminum material recalls the now instant history of cars stuck in floodwaters.

Visible from the roadway, each horse gargoyle has a different pose, creating a simulation of running as one passes by. During floods, water, with pressure from the irrigation system, will flow out the mouths, while floodwaters flow over the drop structure around the plinths (note: the irrigation system uses reclaimed wastewater from the state-of-the-art facility at the Scottsdale Water Campus). At night, the sculptures are elegantly up-lit with blue lights on the east side and yellow lights on the west side that represent the water and sun.

Site improvements facilitate the flow of floodwater from the golf course down a concrete “drop structure,” under a new roadway bridge, and into a basin that controls the water’s progression into an existing natural mesquite grove and lake. Floodwaters continue through Scottsdale’s greenbelt of parks and ultimately reach the Salt River.

16 SUMMER 2010

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McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 17

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT:

Luggage HuggerDeveloped by Scottsdale resident Lucia Burns, these clever bag identifiers can be found at local retailer Suitcases & More (near Sprouts on 92nd and Shea) or on myluggagehugger.com! Easy to put on, don’t check your next bag without one.

Cordially,

David McKee | General ManagerThe Millennium Resort Scottsdale McCormick Ranch7401 North Scottsdale RoadScottsdale, AZ 85253, USA

Dear McCormick Rancher and Neighbors:Company coming? Need an extra guest room? Want to enjoy your visitors more by leaving the cooking, cleaning and bed-making to us?

The Millennium has started a special "Friends and Neighbors" RateProgram especially for you and your guests. Just give us your Zip code to qualify for these special rates year-around. Enjoy our all-new pool, Cabana Bar, the Diamondback Lounge and the Pinon Grill with its covered terrace overlooking the Lake, the McCormick Ranch Golf Course and the McDowell mountains ... a view unequaled anywhere in Scottsdale.

Our Lakeside Pavilion is also available for special events -- wed-dings, receptions, reunions, business meetings -- you name it, we can handle it with our highly-experienced professional staff. We're rather famous for turning a hassle into a totally enjoyable, pleasantly memo-rable experience for hosts and guests alike.

Please call our Reservations Department at 480 948-5050 and tell them what you want or need. Then sit back and enjoy every moment with your guests!

Owned and operated by the Berg family since 1974, about 50% of Ranch Realty clientele are second home buyers. In addition to being a full service real estate agency, they specialize in the management of investment properties.

Mike and Leo Berg, along with their six other siblings, grew up on McCormick Ranch and saw the Paseo Village shopping center (where their office is located) being built. As a matter of fact, they hand-delivered the first newsletters for the community, which their father put together. He opened Ranch Realty because he saw a need for the service and enjoyed being an advocate for the area. After their father’s death in 1994, Mike and Leo quit their jobs and stepped in to run the family business.

Even though property management was not the original vision of Ranch Realty, it has filled a great need. With a large number of furnished and unfurnished rentals in the area, Ranch Realty agents offer the added convenience of being on location 7 days a week. Leo says, “This is our neighborhood. We build long term relationships with our

clients, managing hundreds of properties in greater Scottsdale for absentee owners worldwide.”

Each of their 30 agents have over 10 years of experience in real estate and 75% of them have lived – or are currently living – on McCormick Ranch. Bob Berg, who is the broker for Ranch Realty, also serves on the ethics panel for the Board of Real Estate.

As most of us know, January-April are peak season for snow bird rentals here. “In 2009, the market was the worst we’d ever seen, but it is starting to pick back up. McCormick Ranch is the greenest, prettiest area in Scottsdale so it always keeps it’s value,” says Leo.

Their website ranchrealty.com allows users to browse all listed properties. Leo says, “We have about 225 unfurnished rental listings, but only 6 vacancies! We have never had so few available unfurnished properties.” If you have a property to rent or are looking for an investment property in the area, contact the experts at Ranch Realty today!

SUMMER 2010

Lakefront home with incredible views. 8242 E. Del Cadena Drive

3 bedroom, 3 bath with large yard.Offered at $785,000

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 19

HYATT REGENCY SCOTTSDALE RESORT and Spa’s special “Summer of Adventure Family Package,” available from

May 16 – September 12, 2010. From just $149* per night, guests will receive:

• Deluxe Guest Room (50% off second room)

• Welcome arrival drink and family photo• Free Breakfast for all guests in room• Free Dinner for kids with each paying

adult• Free Camp Hyatt for children• 25% off services at Spa Avania• Kids Play Free golf, ages 15 and under,

when playing with a paying adult.• 10% Discount on Adventure Experi-

ences through Green Zebra Adventure Center

• Daily Adventures for kids and families, including pool kayaking, snorkeling, Native American Adventure Games and Hiking with Hank

• Plus, pets can come, too, for $25 per visit.

There will even be a daily giveaway of a Green Zebra Desert Tomcar Adventure for 2 persons!

At Camp Hyatt, kids, ages 3-12, can enjoy half- or full-day adventures offered daily, year-round.

From nighttime waterslide rides, water jousting, big ball aqua volleyball, water basketball and dive-in movies to a splashing good time in our 2 ?- acre “water play-ground,” complete with ten pools and a three-story waterslide, there’s a summer full of fun-filled family adventures for all ages. Adults can get away from it all in the “adult only” pool, relax in Spa Avania or enjoy the sounds of nightly entertainment.

SCOTTSDALE PLAZA RESORTLounge in a luxurious room for only $129

per night and receive a $100 credit to use in The Salon & Day Spa, or in any of the restaurants, bars or poolside cafes, including the award winning Remington’s Restaurant & Lounge. Enjoy 5 sparkling pools, lighted tennis courts, a fitness center, racquetball courts and a putting green. Offer is valid June 26, 2010 through September 10, 2010. Upgrades are available. For information and Reservations call 888-273-7448, 480-948-500 or visit www.scottsdaleplaza.com

SCOTTSDALE RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER

Great Summer Deal at Scottsdale Resort for McCormick Ranch Residents! Call 800-540-0727 and mention MCRL or McCor-mick Ranch Lifestyle and receive summer room rates from as low as $59.00 per night (plus tax and $19.00 nightly Resort Fee.)

Offer valid for stays 5/27/10 through 9/7/10, based upon availability. Not valid for groups and may not be used in conjunction with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. 800-540-0727 or 480-991-9000

MILLENNIUM RESORT SCOTTS-DALE MCCORMICK RANCHSummer “Offer(s)”

-$100 for $100Our traditional “$100 for $100” IS

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND; pro-vides a guest room for $100 AND a $100 F&B credit for use in the Pinon Grill, Dia-mondbacks Bar & Grill, the pool side Cool Coyote Cabana Bar and even room service.

-$139 for $100

Taking our traditional F&B package to a whole different level; pay $139 for a standard guest accommodation and receive a $100 F&B credit (use in all outlets noted above) and receive unlimited golf for each day’s stay for one person; includes cart and range balls.

-$169 for $100Pay $169 for a standard guest accom-

modation and receive a $100 F&B credit (use in all outlets noted above) and receive unlimited golf for each day’s stay for two people; includes cart and range balls.

VillasEnjoy a Villa experience this summer

and receive $100 F&B credit for each nights stay; two bedrooms available from $229 and three bedrooms from $279.

Take advantage of a Villa Food, Bever-age & Golf Package; includes $100 F&B credit for use in the Pinon Grill, Diamond-backs Bar & Grill, Cool Coyote Cabana Bar or even room service and unlimited golf each day:

-From $289 for two people-From $339 for three peopleExplore Camelback Lake by canoe or

paddleboat, play one of McCormick Ranch Golf Club’s two championship 18 hole courses, then take advantage of our bicy-cles, fishing poles, swimming pool, fitness center and tennis and volleyball courts.

Reservations: 1.800.243.1332Millenniumhotels.com/scottsdaleValid from May 17th to September 12,

2010 subject to availability. Excludes tax and daily resort fee of $10.07. Food and beverage credit cannot be used towards gratuity or be redeemed at McCormick Ranch Golf Club.

The Resort

20 SUMMER 2010

Mountain View Plaza ~ Nestled In The Heart of McCormick Ranch

Your Neighborhood

Design Center inMcCormick Ranch

Kitchen & BathDesign, Sales& Installation

Years of Experience

More affordable than the large chain stores

Personalized attention

Infinity Design9699 N Hayden Rd ~ Suite E109

Scottsdale, AZ 85258

480-922-5651 www.cabdesign.org

By COSENTINO

We will exceed your expectations

SILESTONE

Summer will soon be upon us, time to retreat indoors and view the garden from the comfort of the air conditioning! However, now is also the time to think about Fall Gardening.

If you are considering starting vegetable gardening and don’t have the room or the possibility of a vegetable garden at home, why not consider renting a community garden plot?

SCC Community Garden Club was started in 1976 and is located at the NE corner of the SCC Campus at Chapparal Road. There, gardeners lovingly tend to their plots on 6 acres and despite its closeness to the 101, it is a tranquil oasis where they grow an abundance of wonderful vegetables, fruit and flowers. A place where people can feel close to nature and enjoy the tremendous satisfaction of producing their own food.

Currently there are 107 gardeners and co-gardeners on 177 plots, 9 plots being still available with individual plots measuring 20’ x 30’. Each plot costs $40 per year to rent, $40 per year for water, $10 yearly insurance and a one-time equipment fee of $62. A water spigot is placed at each plot for irrigation purposes. If you are interested in renting a plot, please contact the club President, Paul Kuffler at pdkpayson@cox.net . If you sign up now, you can get 14 months for the price of 12. The club welcomes all gardeners, big and small, experienced or novice!

For free desert gardening information, contact the Maricopa Master Gardeners at www.maricopamastergardener.com or call the hotline at 602 470 8086.

Summer Garden Notesby Carol Stuttard

best ribs on the

mondayBABY BACK RIB BASKET$599

Served with your choice of side

wednesday½ RACK RIB DINNER $999

includes soup or salad and choice of side

8880 East Via Linda / Scottsdale, Arizona 85258Northwest Corner of 90th Street and Via Linda in the Fry’s Marketplace Plaza

(T) 480.614.5254taverngrillescottsdale.com

MCRL

22 SUMMER 2010

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.

Southern & Downtown Scottsdale Free: 21st Annual Summer Spectacular Art WalkDowntown ScottsdaleThursday, July 8, 2010, 7-9pm.“Chill” with music, art and prize-filled ice sculptures in the Scottsdale Arts District. Hosted by the Scottsdale Gallery Association in conjunction with City of Scottsdale.

Free: July 4th Celebration!Scottsdale Stadium 7408 E. Osborn Road.Sunday, July 4, 2010, 4-6pmJoin Scottsdale Parks & Recreation for a fun family celebration! There will be grills available so bring whatever you would want grilled. We will also have old-fashioned games and crafts...the activity is purposely early, so you can go to wherever you enjoy fireworks. (There are NO fireworks provided at this event) Join us!!

Almost Free: Hawaiian Day LuauAdmission: Adults is $2 for residents and $3 for non-residents per visit and for children (age 17 and under) is $1 for residents or $1.50 for non-residents per visit.

Great value for summer usage of the City Pools at Cactus, Eldorado, and Chaparral; Adult Passes can be purchased for 10-visits ($20 for residents or $30 for non-residents) or 30-visits ($60 for residents or $90 for non-residents).

Eldorado Aquatic and Fitness Center2301 N. Miller Road.Come frolic in the beachfront entry and have fun in the water play features! Games, live entertainment and a good time will be had by all! Regular pool admission applies (see above). Be sure to join us for this annual ‘aloha’ event! For questions contact (480) 312-2484.

Chaparral Park Free: 35th Annual Mighty Mud Mania****Please bring a non-perishable food item for donation to Vista Del Camino food bank.

Saturday, June 19, 2010, 8:30am–2:00pm Event features activities for children 6 years and younger, in addition to children 7 to 17 years of age. Activities for 6 & Younger include Mini Mud course, Mudville “mud” town for all the tiny tots (1-6 year olds love this area), mini waterslide, and sand castle building! Activities for 7-17 year olds include the Original Mud Obstacle course, waterslides, sandcastle building, water cannons, and mud pits to play in.

Swim after your Mud activities for $1

admission. Be sure to bring a CLEAN swimsuit and towel if you want to swim.

You can also volunteer for Mighty Mud Mania! Over 200 volunteers are needed; why not volunteer for one of the most fun events all summer! Email MCrossman@ScottsdaleAZ.gov and we’ll send you the details for you to fill out including: When you can volunteer, what you’d like to do, and what shirt size you need. Muddy jobs, clean jobs, they run the gamut! You can also call 480-312-2771 and leave your name/address/zip code; and we’ll send you the forms to complete and return.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad ParkFree: Sunday Night Concert SeriesOn Sunday’s from 7:30 – 9:00pm beginning May 2nd and running through July 15th.Bring a blanket or chair to hear a variety of favorite local bands. Train and carousel rides are available throughout all concerts. Food will also be available for purchase. Sunday May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 4. There will also be train ($2) and carousel rides ($1) available. Children age three and younger ride free with a paying adult on either ride.

LOCAL EVENTS

In Your OwnBy Jeanne Alspaugh

ldorado Aquatic and Fitness Center admission. Be sure to bring a CLEAN

Backyard

May 2 Raun Alosi Band Rock & popMay 9 Shallow Water Upbeat party bandMay 16 Otis and the Beat Classic to today’s hitsMay 23 Instant Classics Rock and popMay 30 Mogollon High Energy CountryJune 6 Groove Merchants Big city sound & hot horn sectionJune 13 Aaron Nelson Project Variety pop rockJune 20 Rock Lobster Retro 80’sJune 27 Cold Shott and the Hurricanes Classic Rock & RollJuly 4 Furious George Current rock tunes with classics

Concert Schedule

McCormick Ranch Lifestyle 23

NEEDLEPOINTclasses-accessories-mail order

8989 E Via Linda #113

Mon-Fri 10am -5:30pm

Sat 10am-4:30pm

480-551-1423

www.quailrun-inc.com

MARKETPLACE

Your insurance may pay for your membership!

Call for details.

RODENT & BEE EXPERTSGRAND SLAM SUMMER CAMPAT THE SCOTTSDALE RESORT

& ATHLETIC CLUBKids 5-12. 1st Session begins May 31.

Great fun! Reasonable prices!10% off to McCormick Ranch Residents.

For info go towww.scottsdaleresortandathleticclub.com/sac/summercamp

Call 480-991-1571Visit us at 8225 E. Indian Bend Rd.

10%OFF

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TO ADVERTISE CALL 480-212-6203

Backyard

John WakeAssociate Broker, M.S.HomeSmart Real Estate480-463-4475John@johnwake.com

To list your McCormick Ranch home for sale, call John Wake, Associate Broker with HomeSmart Real Estate and receive a free listing proposal.

McCormick Ranch Homes SoldMLS homes sold in McCormick Ranch, April 2010

brought to you by John Wake, Associate Broker, HomeSmart Real Estate

$230,000 $280,000 $281,900 $314,900

SOLD

$329,000 $360,000 $375,000 $379,000

$390,000 $393,000 $425,000 $435,000

SOLDSOLD

SOLD

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SOLDSOLD

SOLDSOLD

$440,000 $498,000 $585,000 $675,000

SOLDSOLD

SOLDSOLD

7017 N VIA NUEVA4bd/2ba, 2152 sqft – Lender Owned

8731 E QUARTERHORSE TRL3bd/2.5ba, 2160 sqft – Short Sale

8479 E SAN BRUNO DR3bd/2ba, 1712 sqft – Lender Owned

7041 N VIA NUEVA4bd/1.75ba, 2152 sqft

8472 E SAN BERNARDO DR2bd/2ba, 1986 sqft – Short Sale

8025 E DEL PLATINO DR3bd/2ba, 2139 sqft

8019 E DEL RUBI DR3bd/2ba, 1763 sqft – Owner/Agent

8537 E SAN DANIEL DR4bd/3ba, 2445 sqft – Short Sale

8039 E DEL CAVERNA DR3bd/2.5ba, 2274 sqft – Probate/Estate

8508 E QUARTERHORSE TRL3bd/2ba, 2412 sqft – Short Sale

8314 E VIA DE ENCANTO S4bd/2ba, 2333 sqft

8907 N 80TH WAY4bd/2ba, 2095 sqft – Owner/Agent

9827 N 83RD P4bd/2.5ba, 3174 sqft – Lender Owned

8342 E VIA DE SERENO4bd/2ba, 2200 sqft

8454 N 82ND ST4bd/3ba, 3467 sqft

8638 E ONYX AVE4bd/2.5ba, 4065 sqft