A footpath down from the fells of England's Lake District
Renewal, adventure and connection
As spring graces us with its warm embrace, the beauty of Scottsdale comes alive. Wildflowers bloom across our trails, honeybees hum with purpose, and the desert landscape invites us to reconnect with nature. It’s the perfect time to celebrate renewal, reflection, and the remarkable community we share.
This March, our desert trails take center stage. Whether you’re exploring the nearby McDowell Sonoran Preserve or daydreaming of trekking England’s famous Coast to Coast route, as highlighted in this month’s issue, there’s inspiration to get outside and adventure. For those staying closer to home, don’t miss the March 22 Landscape Stroll, where you can learn about our native flora with DC Ranch Landscape Manager Jeff Rons.
On April 12, the Tour de Scottsdale returns, bringing cyclists from across the country to experience our breathtaking surroundings. This event exemplifies the community spirit we hold dear—coming together to celebrate wellness,
the outdoors and each other. Read more about the Tour and how to register on page 18.
The same spirit is evident in DC Ranch Gives, which continues to foster connection and generosity through donation drives and volunteer opportunities. Learn more on page 8 of how residents made a significant impact on local organizations in 2024.
Finally, join us at the Ranch Association Annual Meeting on April 1 to welcome new board members and reflect on the progress and policies that shape our shared future.
Thank you for being part of what makes DC Ranch so vibrant.
DC Ranch News is a not-for-profit newspaper published by the DC Ranch Community Council to promote the DC Ranch lifestyle. The publication strives to build community by connecting current and future residents along with DC Ranch stakeholders through interesting stories and pictures.
Ranch News offers value to its advertisers and perpetuates
DC Ranch’s community values.
DC Ranch Community Council spotlights local businesses as a service to the community and for information purposes only.
DC Ranch does not recommend or endorse any described products or services.
Deputy Executive Director, Community Council
Jona Davis
Communications Manager Elizabeth Dankert
Community Content Coordinator Alexandra Duemer
480.513.1500 communications.team @dcranchinc.com dcranch.com
A division of Republic Media
200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004
Advertising Lisa Schubert
lschubert@gannett.com
VP, Sales–Local Kevin Martinelli
Editor Jim Williams
Art Director Miles Abernethy
• Sense of Community
• Environmental Stewardship
• Family
• Healthy Lifestyles
DC Ranch Community Values Living Connected
• Diversity & Inclusiveness
• Lifelong Learning
• Artistic & Cultural Opportunities
• Relationship with Larger Community
DC Ranch seamlessly connects people to the beauty of both the created environment and the natural Sonoran Desert. Residents feel a sense of community, connecting with each other in friendship and common interest. It is a thoughtfully crafted community designed with unprecedented attention to detail. DC Ranch has a distinctive governance structure with ample resources that exist to ensure a legacy of an amenity-rich and active way of life. The highest standards and a convenient north Scottsdale location establish DC Ranch as a nationally desirable place to live with an exceptional quality of life and premium home values.
Jona Davis
Deputy Executive Director, Community Council
Season
of renewal
Spring is a popular time for desert wildlife to emerge from hibernation in search of food and water. It is not uncommon for desert inhabitants to find resources in neighborhoods, on paths and trails, and along the golf courses. Javelinas often travel in packs, therefore seeing one peccary infers a nearby group. Keeping attractants like pet food and garbage contained will help prevent these keenly nosed mammals from entering residential areas. Classified as big-game animals
with state law protections, encounters with javelina are strongly discouraged. Bees are busy restocking food, reestablishing colonies and hives, and supporting the queen in creating the next generation of bees. A vital part of the eco- and food- systems, honeybees are gentle creatures that are focused on their work and should be respected and left to remain undisturbed. If you notice a beehive in a common area, please notify Landscape & Maintenance at 480.585.8654.
Community Standards for plant density: DCRL-13
Many neighborhoods in DC Ranch have a plant density requirement which requires a minimum number of plants in a set amount of square footage on a property. For example, 1:25 means that 1 plant is required for every 25 sq. ft. in the front yard areas. Density requirements vary by landscape zone,
New
Village and neighborhood. DC Ranch has an approved plant list of over 300 different plant species. Plants on the prohibited plant list do not integrate well with DC Ranch’s natural desert environment. Visit DCRanch.com for your approved plant palette or call The Ranch Office at 480.513.5000.
board members announced at Annual Meeting
The Ranch Association Annual Meeting will be held Monday, April 1 at 6 p.m. at The Homestead Community Center. This important meeting provides residents with an overview of key projects and policy changes the Ranch Association undertook in 2024, and election results for the open seats on the Board of Directors will be announced. New directors will each serve a three-year term in representing residents, creating and amending DC Ranch policy, and attending monthly meetings and events. To vote on behalf of their neighborhood, Neighborhood Voting Members must submit their electronic ballots by 5 p.m. on April 1.
Community Patrol & Gate Access
Corner
At its March 4 meeting, the Ranch Association Board of Directors is scheduled to ratify a contract with a new security company to oversee the CPGA program to begin in May. This decision is a significant step forward for the community. As DC Ranch continues to prioritize safety and exceptional service, please share your feedback using the “Let Us Know” form on DCRanch.com.
March is a perfect time to enjoy the native flora and fauna along the community’s path and trail system. Curated more than 25 years ago during the community’s initial development, the Wildflower Program is a unique agreement between DC Ranch and the City of Scottsdale that celebrates the special desert setting. Seeds were scattered by the Landscape team in October so residents can enjoy wildflowers during these next few weeks. The careful planning, planting and propagating can be seen throughout the community due to the areas of desert where our seed mix has naturalized over the years. Learn about the different landscape features along the path and trail system and the importance of desert flora in the community during the Landscape Stroll with DC Ranch Landscape Manager, Jeff Rons, on Saturday, March 22.
Wildflower season & Landscape Stroll
Desert Marigold Mexican Gold Poppy
Desert Bluebells
Cosmos (multiple variety)
“When I decided to sell my house, I just wanted to turn it over to a team I trusted and let them do their thing without any worries. The Matheson team was exactly what we wanted! They followed up continually with anyone who showed interest and kept me updated the entire time. Will use again if I ever need another property sold.” – Tyson A.
MONTHLY PLANNER
Art Show Meetup
Sunday, March 2 | 1 to 3 p.m.
Meet at Loop 101 & Hayden
Ages 16+ | $10
Get inspired by local artists at the “Celebration of Fine Art” event at the white tents. Residents will enjoy a personalized tour to connect with the art and artists in a deeper way. Registration includes event admission.
Food Truck Night
Thursday, March 6 | 5 to 7 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Enjoy a night off from cooking
Made Easy
Friday, March 7, 14, 21, 28
1 to 3:30 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center Ages 16+ | $23
Enjoy a 4-week class designed to help build a solid foundation in Mah Jongg, starting with the basics and gradually advancing to a deeper understanding of strategy, rules and gameplay.
Starlight Concert
Friday, March 7 6 to 8 p.m.
Market Street Park
Enjoy a night of live music under the stars. Residents are encouraged to walk or ride their bikes to the concert and to bring their own lawn seating, snacks and drinks. Parking is available on the south end of Market Street.
Pet CPR
Saturday, March 15
9 a.m. to Noon
Desert Camp Community Center Ages 14+ | $23
Pet owners, pet sitters, and anyone who wants to be prepared for a pet emergency will learn life-saving techniques such as CPR, how to manage choking, and how to handle common pet injuries and health emergencies.
Craft Night: Welcome Mat
Monday, March 17 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | $34
Join a Stencil Studio artist in creating a welcoming, colorful Spring-themed doormat. All supplies, beverages and light bites included.
Women's Club: Spring Social
Thursday, March 20 | 5 to 6:30 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP
Let friendship blossom! Come meet other women in the community for friendly conversation and fellowship. Light bites and beverages provided.
Sunlight Concert
Sunday, March 23 | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Bring lawn seating, pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful spring weather with some live music!
Brown's Ranch Land Wars
Wednesday, March 26 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center Ages 16+ | $7
Join McDowell Sonoran Preserve leaders to hear stories of the ins, outs and conspiracies of how Brown’s Ranch came to be. Ultimately, part of the ranch was preserved and later acquired by Scottsdale to become the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Light bites and beverages provided.
For the most up-to-date information and a full listing of ongoing programs, meetings, events and fitness classes, visit DCRanch.com/calendar.
Please note: To register for all activities, residents must create a CivicRec account. Details at DCRanch.com/CivicRec.
Family Fitness
Saturday: Bike Ride
Saturday, March 29 | 9 to 10 a.m. Departs from Desert Camp Ages 8+ | RSVP
Enjoy a leisurely 4-6 mile bike ride with other families. A resident cyclist will guide the group along a scenic route on the paths and trails, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Helmets required; bring a water bottle.
Anything Goes at Hale Theatre
Saturday, March 29 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Departs from Desert Camp Ages 21+ | $55
Travel with neighbors for an evening show at Hale Center Theatre. Anything Goes is a hilarious and romantic adventure aboard the S.S. American; the classic musical is filled with mistaken identities, madcap antics, and toe-tapping tunes by Cole Porter. Transportation and ticket included.
Speaker Series: The Future of Healthcare
Monday, March 31 | 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP
Join an ASU educator on an exciting discovery of historical and upcoming trends in healthcare technology. The presentation will explore applications in telemedicine, artificial intelligence, virtual reality and informatics. Light bites and wine provided. Doors open at 6 p.m., speaker begins at 6:30 p.m.
By Devin Haggerty
The DC Ranch Gives program is a shining example of how a community can come together to make a meaningful difference. With its mission to provide residents with opportunities to engage with one another while giving back to the broader community, the program has grown into a cornerstone of community life, fostering connection, generosity and impact. Donation drives
Throughout 2024, DC Ranch Gives organized several donation drives that made a significant impact on local organizations:
• Shred Day raised $2,200 for the Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children.
• The Stock the Shelves Drive collected over 1,470 hygiene and essential items for Homeward Bound during June and July.
• Blood Drive with the American Red Cross drew 47 donors, helping to save lives.
• A donation event at The Homestead inspired 40 carloads of contributions to The Salvation Army.
DC Ranch Gives: Building community through service
• Around the holidays, residents rallied during a toy drive to collect nearly 300 toys for Ronald McDonald House Charities, spreading joy to children in need.
Rescue, St. Vincent de Paul, and HALO Animal Rescue. These projects also raised $450 in registration donations for participating organizations.
The spirit of service extended to DC Ranch Signature Events, where 28 teens stepped up as volunteers, demonstrating that the next generation is eager to make a difference.
Staying connected
The quarterly Gives Newsletter reached 256 residents, a marked increase from 2023. The newsletter highlighted upcoming opportunities, celebrated the Volunteer of the Year campaign, and featured resident spotlights that showcased inspiring stories of generosity.
Resident Edith Smith summed up the program’s impact beautifully:
Volunteerism
Volunteers of all ages embraced the chance to give back through group service projects, contributing 199 total hours. Residents joined forces to support organizations like Hope Women’s Center, Foothills Animal
“I am so grateful to live in a community that cares about others. Thanks so much to the DC Ranch leaders and staff for providing us, as DC Ranch residents, so many opportunities to give back!"
Loop 101 widening project progress in
Scottsdale
In January 2024, the Arizona Department of Transportation, in partnership with the city of Scottsdale, began construction of the widening project on Loop 101 (Pima Freeway) between Princess Drive/Pima Road and Shea Boulevard. The project will add one general-purpose lane in each direction and modify existing interchanges to improve traffic flow.
The project remains on target for completion by early 2026.
Progress to date
• Bridge widening work at Princess Drive/ Pima Road, Bell Road and the CAP canal, including new drilled shaft foundations, abutments, girders and bridge decks.
• Reconstructing ramps at Princess Drive/ Pima Road, Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Cactus Road and Shea Boulevard.
• Widening of Loop 101, including:
- Northbound Loop 101 between Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard and Princess Drive/Pima Road.
- North- and southbound Loop 101 from Shea Boulevard to Cactus Road.
- All other areas of north- and southbound Loop 101 between on- and off-ramps that are scheduled for reconstruction.
• Drainage improvements along Loop 101, including a new 72-inch storm drain at Shea Boulevard, and new drainage at reconstructed ramps.
• Installing new LED lighting and light shields.
• Reconfiguring the Frank Lloyd Wright traffic interchange to a diamond configuration.
Coming in 2025
• Adding a third left-turn lane from westbound Pima Road to southbound Loop 101/the southbound Loop 101 frontage road.
• Expansion of the existing bridge, construction of retaining walls, and installation of new medians at Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard.
• Extending the Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard westbound right-turn lanes for accessing the northbound Loop 101 frontage road.
• Constructing new medians at the northbound Loop 101 on-ramp and southbound Loop 101 off-ramp at Cactus Road.
• Adding an additional right-turn lane for the following traffic movements at Raintree Drive:
- Southbound Loop 101 frontage road to westbound Raintree Drive.
- Westbound Raintree Drive to the northbound Loop 101 frontage road.
- Northbound Loop 101 frontage road to eastbound Raintree Drive.
• Adding an additional right-turn lane from westbound Shea Boulevard to northbound Loop 101.
• ADA improvements, including new sidewalk, ramps, and crosswalk buttons at Princess Drive/Pima Road, Bell Road, Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, Raintree Drive, Thunderbird and Cactus roads and Shea Boulevard.
• Completing reconstruction and improvements of on- and off-ramps.
• New signing and striping, landscape restoration and painting of existing walls along Loop 101. Visit azdot.gov for more information.
Have you ever hiked across an entire country?
The famous England Coast to Coast route is an amazing option! Pioneered by Alfred Wainwright, it passes through three contrasting national parks: the Lake District National Park, the Yorkshire Dales National Park, and the North York Moors National Park. The main route follows a flatter trail across the narrowest part of England 192 miles from the Irish Sea to the North Sea. However, there are alternate routes that include summiting the country’s highest peaks and visiting quaint towns in the Lake District. Last September, I completed 85 miles of the most breathtaking trails with Alpenwild tours. The biggest surprises were the significant elevation gain in the Lake District, and also the fantastic food! Gourmet all the way.
Hiking England coast to coast
Day 1:
Began in Ravenglass, “where the fells meet the sea” and started through a leafy forest into Lake District National Park. Enjoyed a tour of Muncaster Castle by its young bachelor Lord Ewan Pennington. Overnighted at an estate dating back to 1134 that was greatly expanded in 1653 to accommodate the owner’s 17 children.
Day 2:
Meant to summit England’s highest peak (Scafell Pike ascends 3510 feet), but driving rain created an uncrossable mountain river ravine, which detoured the group to Styhead Pass. Despite soggy weather, we visited St. Olaf’s church, recorded since 1550 on a former Nordic site, and admired the local Herdwick sheep. Spent the night in a lovely Edwardian country house in Borrowdale.
Day 3:
From Stonethwaite, the trail ascended to the Lake District. The guide taught us about construction of English dry-stone walls. Under bright blue skies, we could see all of England’s 3000-foot mountains. Descended a trail following rivers and waterfalls to the idyllic village of Grasmere, formerly home to poet William Wordsworth, and sampled Cumbria’s famous Grasmere Gingerbread, using the same recipe since 1854. Also learned about the region’s early explorer and cartographer, Alfred Wainwright.
Day 4:
Hiked the high trail from Dunmale Raise to Glenridding. Starting with a steep climb and a beautiful high traverse to summit Helvellyn. From this 3rd highest peak in England, there were commanding views of all four UK countries and some of the most scenic views the glacially formed Lake District affords. Sunburnt but happy, we descended to a gorgeous resort hotel lakeside in Ullswater Valley for two nights.
Day 5:
Day 7:
During “rest day” we took a walk to the village of Ullswater, had lunch at Granny’s Tea House and explored the shops. A quiet afternoon allowed time to dip our feet in the lake, kayak and enjoy the lovely flower gardens.
Day 6:
The last day hiking in the Lake District before crossing into the Yorkshire Dales. The walk began in a densely forested, steep streamside gorge and visited a stone teahouse stop. We ascended The Knott summit to a traverse and finally descended to depart for a B&B with a local pub in Wigglesworth.
Famous as a knitting town, we began on the cobbled streets of Dent with the trail taking us to the summit of Whernside, the highest of The Yorkshire Three Peaks, which include Ingleborough and Pen-y-ghent. We saw many participants (called fell walkers) taking part in The Three Peaks challenge to ascend all three within 12 hours. The walk finished in Twistleton, where we nested in a hotel known for weddings for two nights.
Day 8:
The group continued ‘bagging peaks’ with an ascent of Ingleborough. From the summit are views out to Morecambe Bay and across the Lakeland Fells including Whernside and Pen-y-ghent. The descent trail follows the Pennine Way to Horton in Ribblesdale.
Day 9:
A 3rd and final day in the Yorkshire Dales before moving on to the final part of the hike in the North York Moors. The hike followed the Pennine Way, passing through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Dales to reach Malham. Former home to American travel/comedy writer Bill Bryson, Malham is also known for unique limestone formations filmed during the Harry Potter movies.
Day 10:
In the flatter North York Moors National Park, we continued toward the North Sea coast. Wide-open expanses of heather-clad moorland full of grouse make this picturesque scenery famous. We overnighted in a quintessentially English-style country house hotel dating to 1892.
Day 11:
This final segment crossed the North York Moors and descended into the winding, cobbled streets of Robin Hood’s Bay, known for smuggling in the 1700’s. We walked to the beach of this picturesque fishing village marking the traditional end point of the England Coast to Coast Walk. We celebrated with a pint at a local pub before wandering around the village in search of souvenirs.
Day 12:
Finished with a day in York, known for its Roman walls and Viking history. I visited the museum, walked the walls, shopped boutiques in winding streets, and culminated with a celebratory tea at the stately The Grand hotel.
Follow Kat on Instagram @theartfultourist.
(top) Ullswater Lake curves through the mountains of the English Lake District at Glenridding, looking down on the lake from the crags of Birkhouse Moor. (bottom, left to right) Dove Cottage, home of the poet, Willam Wordsworth, in Grasmere. Across the North York Moors and up the Pennine way to Malham. Curious Herdwick sheep in Great Langdale. Ingleborough Mountain with Malham's unique limestone formations in the foreground.
LOCAL LENS
By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council
Kaleidoscope Juice, a local women-owned business specializing in organic cold-pressed juices and smoothies, proudly announced the opening of its newest location in DC Ranch Crossing in May 2024. Situated between Koi Poke and Luster Nail & Spa, this expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s mission to promote health and wellness within the community.
Kaleidoscope Juice was founded by Alexandra Maw in 2012 through a business grant from Arizona State University for the concept of offering healthy food and organic juice in Scottsdale.
Since then, Kaleidoscope Juice has grown to eight Valley locations. Under the leadership of CEO and owner Dr. Brooke Graves, Kaleidoscope Juice continues to prioritize community engagement through nutritional education. The company offers a diverse range of all organic cold-pressed juices, smoothies, toasts, coffees and gluten-free baked goods, all crafted to support a healthy lifestyle. By sourcing the finest organic ingredients, Kaleidoscope Juice ensures that customers receive high-quality, nutrient-rich products. Meal replacement shakes are some of the most popular menu items for people on-the-go. Top seller “Strawberry Shortcake” is touted as high fiber, high fat + protein and hormone balancing. The tasty concoction features: Frozen strawberry, raspberry, flaxseed, cashew butter, Sprout Living Vanilla Lucuma protein, ceylon cinnamon, vanilla extract, pitaya, unsweetened coconut milk, and is topped with house-made coconut whip with pitaya drizzle.
Kaleidoscope Juice is dedicated to fostering a healthier community through education and the provision of wholesome, organic products. The new DC Ranch location serves as a welcoming space for individuals to learn and make informed choices about their health.
Place an order online or stop in Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Kaleidoscope Juice 18221 N. Pima Rd., Suite 110 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 480.264.6793
Kaleidoscope-love.square.site
Hiking with safety in mind
By John Loleit | City of Scottsdale
The McDowell Sonoran Preserve has many miles of trails from easy and short to difficult and long. Enjoyment of this beautiful desert is related to preparedness and common sense. Even a short hike with simple problems can turn out to be traumatic, so here are a few things to consider:
Know your physical limitations
If it’s been awhile since you stepped out for a hike, go a shorter distance than what you anticipate you can do. You want to feel good after the hike knowing you had energy to spare.
Be familiar with the trail you are hiking Preserve maps provide distance between points and intersections as well as elevation between them.
Check the weather forecast
Radio, TV and cell phone apps are all available to help you understand the forecast. It never hurts to stop during your hike to observe any changes.
Share your plans
Tell someone where you are going, who you might be going with and when you can be expected back. Any change of plan could increase the time necessary to help you, if needed.
Dress appropriately
A hat is always a must, no matter the season. Dressing in layers can give you the most options. Undoubtedly, proper footwear for the terrain is the most important piece of clothing you have.
WHAT TO BRING
Water is the most essential item to always have with you. Carry more water than you need; extra is always welcome when the unexpected happens. Your cell phone is very important, so make sure it is fully charged before you head out. Text messages can be sent even when the phone shows no signal. Most provide a flashlight that becomes very handy for a variety of uses. Using headphones during a hike is highly discouraged. These reduce your ability to hear what is going on around you such as a hiker wanting to pass, a rattlesnake warning or the roar of thunder.
A trail map. The app Maprika has exact copies of the Preserve trail maps and also provides your exact location on the trail.
Hiking snacks will depend on the length and difficulty of your hike. Dried and fresh fruit, energy bars and salty pretzels will provide energy.
A whistle is small and easy to put in your pocket but can be heard over greater distances than your shouts.
Turf transition time: Rye to Bermuda grass
It’s hard to believe that March has arrived and, while your winter lawn may still look beautiful, it’s time to start thinking about transitioning to the underlying dormant Bermuda grass. Allowing your Rye grass lawn to continue to grow until warm June temperatures can cause it to die off, damage your Bermuda grass and leave bare spots in your yard. The evening temperatures in DC Ranch are still cool enough at night that you have a few weeks before you or your landscaper need to take action.
Once nighttime lows consistently rise above 65 degrees, it’s time to revitalize Bermuda grass from its winter dormancy. With current weather conditions, this will most likely happen mid to late April. Here is the process the DC Ranch Landscape and Maintenance team takes each spring:
Early stages
• Reduce watering to 70-80% of the normal usage. This will begin stressing the Rye grass but will continue to support the Bermuda grass. Bermuda has been storing carbohydrates and sugars in preparation for its emergence from months of dormancy.
• If necessary, lightly verti-cut the turf to open up its canopy in an effort to allow more sunshine to reach the Bermuda below. Do not scalp your lawn! Scalping will help to kill the Rye, but it’s extremely harmful to the delicate Bermuda.
• With the increasing temperatures, it’s also a good time to apply a pre-emergent to stop weeds before they emerge. Pre-emergents don’t kill weeds, they prevent weed seeds from germinating and maturing into weeds. Pre-emergents can be applied directly onto lawns and around plants, shrubs, and succulents, as well as onto landscaping rocks and gravel. Be sure to follow all application and safety instructions on the product label.
Aeration and mowing
• Aeration is the process of removing and breaking up hard pockets of soil. This turf management practice increases water
penetration and nutrient uptake, breaks up soil compaction, and allows more oxygen to reach the root zone of the turf. Verti-cutting and aerifying machines are available at local equipment rental centers.
• Gradually lower the height of cut and increase mowing intervals so that the grass height does not exceed ½ to ¾ inches. Catch and remove grass clippings. If they remain, they’ll create a mat layer that will inhibit growth.
• Beware of shaded areas in the turf. The Rye will grow aggressively in these areas so it’s important to maintain a low mowing height to allow the Bermuda grass to receive its required amount of sunlight.
Fertilizing
After about 2 weeks, the Bermuda should be overwhelming the Rye. To promote growth, when the weather has warmed up, apply a fertilizer that provides a quick 3–4-week source of nitrogen (such as an 18-5-0 or 21-0-0 at a rate of 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet) and deep soak at least three times a day for 15 minutes. The best times are 7 a.m., 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for a three-day period. It’s really important to water immediately after fertilizing. This is one of the most critical steps for transitioning Bermuda. Quick release products break down very rapidly; the nutrients are then released into the soil and made available to help promote growth and vigor.
Bring on the Humidity
Bermuda grass won’t truly thrive until the humidity increases during monsoon season. It will grow and green up in the warmer temperatures but requires humidity to fill in and become a lush, green lawn.
If you would like additional information about the process or have any other landscaping questions, please email Jeff.Rons@dcranchinc.com.
To aid with aeration, verti-cutting and aerifying machines are available at local equipment rental centers.
By Jeff Rons | Ranch Association
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2025 Tour de Scottsdale: A ride for the community
By Kerry Quinn | McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
The Tour de Scottsdale is set to return on Saturday, April 12, promising another memorable day of cycling and community. Tour de Scottsdale continues to grow as a premier destination ride, bringing together cycling enthusiasts from across the nation to experience the stunning Sonoran Desert.
Last year, over 2,700 riders participated in two picturesque route options: the Metric Century 62-mile route and the Half-Metric Century 35-mile route. The event earned glowing reviews from participants who praised the well-marked courses, helpful volunteers and vibrant post-ride festivities.
The dedication of the volunteers, including McDowell Sonoran Conservancy stewards, HonorHealth Ambassadors and community members, was a key factor in the event's success. Their energy and enthusiasm ensured a smooth experience for riders while embodying the spirit of community that defines the Tour de Scottsdale.
Local vendors, sponsors and non-profits join together to make the event a celebration! Riders and spectators enjoy live music, delicious food and a festive atmosphere at the finish line. This year, Hamra Jewelers and Tudor Watches join the Tour as a Gold Sponsor. Their involvement highlights the event's emphasis on community connection and a shared commitment to preserving the Sonoran Desert.
As the title sponsor, HonorHealth continues to play a pivotal role in the event’s success, championing the Conservancy’s mission to protect and preserve the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Additionally, the event provides a platform for other non-profits to raise funds for their causes, further extending its impact beyond the Conservancy’s initiatives.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist looking for a challenge or a recreational rider eager to enjoy a scenic ride, the 2025 Tour de Scottsdale offers something for everyone. The event is an opportunity to ride for a cause and make a meaningful impact.
Visit tourdescottsdale.org for more information or to register.
Lynn Janney Russell
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts announces new shows
By Sydney Ritter | Scottsdale Arts
“In Arizona, we are eagerly anticipating the arrival of our most vibrant time of year,” said Abbey Messmer, programming director for Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. “With exceptional weather, an influx of visitors from across the country and a wealth of exciting events, this is the perfect season to celebrate the arts.”
U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West
Saturday, March 1 | 3 p.m.
Virginia G. Piper Theater
Tickets: Free
The Concert Band performs a wide variety of music, from standard concert band and wind ensemble literature to orchestral transcriptions, military marches, jazz, pop and Broadway.
To align with Spring Training, the Center will present an award-winning one-man show “Batter Up!” for anyone obsessed with baseball, its history and stats. For connoisseurs, the Celebrity Wine & Spirits event invites attendees to indulge in a curated collection of fine wines, spirits and beers in the scenic setting of Scottsdale Civic Center.
Sun & Sounds
Sundays, March 2-23 | noon
Scottsdale Civic Center | 360 Stage
Tickets: Free
Free Sunday concerts return to the newly renovated outdoor spaces at Scottsdale Civic Center! Sun & Sounds brings the best music Arizona has to offer in a laid-back, familyfriendly atmosphere, surrounded by unique artist vendors, cold drinks at the bar and plenty of good company.
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and Civic Center LIVE are part of the multidisciplinary nonprofit Scottsdale Arts. Below is the schedule of recently added concerts and other events for the 2025 season (subject to change).
Thursday & Friday, March 13 & 14 | 7 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday, March 15 & 16 | 2 and 7 p.m. Stage 2 Tickets start at $26.50
Brett Moore performs amazing and totally unnecessary feats of baseball memory—while waxing poetic about his obsession—in a show full of news stories, games, laughs and nostalgia.
Celebrity Wine & Spirits
Saturday, March 15 | 1 p.m.
Scottsdale Civic Center
Tickets start at $50
Celebrity Wine & Spirits presents an adventure of the palate, featuring a rare collection of famously named wines, spirits and beers at the beautiful Scottsdale Civic Center. Visit Scottsdalearts.org for more information and tickets.
Batter Up: Cactus League
