One Community, Four Villages: Country Club | Desert Camp Desert Parks | Silverleaf
APRIL 2024
Page 8
The timeless beauty of Chinese porcelain
Page 12
Local Lens: ‘Calculate’ your summer plans
Page 14
Ranch Spotlight: Putting sustainability into practice at DC Ranch
Page 19
Annual art gala sets eyes on the stars
This month, we recognize Earth Day on April 22. In DC Ranch, however, every day is earth day. Environmental Stewardship is one of DC Ranch’s core community values. And the community’s resident-driven strategic plan includes an initiative to position DC Ranch as environmentally sustainable for the future. The initiative acknowledges that DC Ranch is situated adjacent to the beautiful McDowell Sonoran Preserve. Residents today, and homebuyers in the future, see environmental sustainability as an important value and responsibility. DC Ranch identifies its community and brand with environmental sustainability–demands placed on the environment are met without reducing its capacity to allow all people to live well, now and in the future.
To support that initiative, the boards of the Community Council and Ranch Association formed the Sustainability Committee. In its inaugural year, this group is focusing on recycling and water use. Learn more about their efforts and how you can get involved on page 14.
Some of the people that care for the land, places, spaces, and programs in DC Ranch are the DC Ranch team members that serve the community. While we are committed to continuous improvement on the Ranch, we also take the time to celebrate the many exceptional people that make our community special and contribute to its well-being. The Values Awards recipients do just that. Learn more about these dedicated team members on page 13. Also, this month we will recognize residents and organizations that give of their time and talent to make a positive impact on DC Ranch at the annual Volunteer Appreciation awards ceremony. AND new Ranch Association and Community Council board directors will kick off their three-year terms on the boards.
Join us in our efforts to preserve and protect our land and what makes DC Ranch unique, now and for generations to come. What will you commit to do to help?
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
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• Sense of Community
• Environmental Stewardship
• Family
• Healthy Lifestyles
• 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.
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The Ranch Association Annual Meeting will be held on Monday, April 1 at 6 p.m. This important meeting will provide residents with an overview of key projects and policy changes the Ranch Association undertook in 2023, updates on developments in and around DC Ranch, as well as the announcement of newly elected Directors.
All open houses in DC Ranch must be registered with the Ranch Association prior to the showing by filling out a form on DCRanch.com. Open houses may be conducted within the community between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. The Ranch Association assists with marketing open houses by providing directional maps at all manned and unmanned gates. At unmanned gates, the maps are located in the mailbox directly below the gate callbox. For questions, email realestatehelp@dcranchinc.com or call the Realtor Hotline at 480.513.1500.
The Ranch Association’s professional management team is responsible for initiating, planning, executing and completing all reserve projects. Listed below are the 2024 neighborhood and Ranch Association reserve projects. Some projects may get deferred due to timing and/or if life expectancy of the assets can be extended longer than anticipated.
Please remember to follow proper pet etiquette when enjoying community parks or the path and trail system. Per City of Scottsdale ordinances and the DC Ranch Standards for Conduct (DCR-13 & 14), pets should always be leashed and pet waste deposited in a refuse container. Pets are permitted to run freely when confined to an enclosure, such as a dog run, or on an owner’s property. Otherwise, pets must be leashed and under the physical control of the pet owner or custodian at all times. Please be considerate of neighbors who may have a pet allergy or an apprehension towards pets, especially larger dogs. The parks are for everyone’s use at all times. The best way to ensure a welcoming environment for all is to remember to leash up and pick up. Take the PUP Pledge! Show your pride in being a PUP-friendly owner in DC Ranch. Simply visit DCRanch.com to sign the pledge that you will do your part to pick up after your pet and receive an official PUP bandana, leash and doggie bags.
DC Ranch has partnered with the Scottsdale Fire Department since 2021 in developing a Firewise program and is now in the third and final phase of the overall program. In 2023, DC Ranch obtained the Firewise Certification from the National Fire Protection Association. This year, ongoing maintenance will continue in the following neighborhoods: Market Street Villas, Pioneer, Haciendas, Desert Haciendas and Rosewood.
DC Ranch has a large number of common walls and fences to maintain. Areas for this year’s improvements and repairs include Arcadia, Sterling, Desert Haciendas, Rosewood, Montelena, Market Street Villas and Pioneer.
Plant Enhancements, Turf Renovations and Tree Replacement
The Ranch Association Landscape Team maintains all the landscape in common areas of DC Ranch. Along with the normal day to day maintenance and upkeep, this also includes plant enhancements, turf renovation and tree replacements that are needed throughout the year. In 2024, the Ranch Association is scheduled to plant over 2,000 shrubs and over 100 trees throughout the community.
Playground Structure Renovations
As part of preventative maintenance for all park playground structures and equipment, a safety inspection is conducted twice each year. During these inspections,
safety compliance is reviewed and recommendations are provided for any needed repairs. This year there are reserve projects for park playground improvements at Arcadia and Terrace Homes East.
Road Maintenance/ Seal Coating and Sidewalk Replacement
There are approximately 50 miles of private roads in DC Ranch. DC Ranch has secured the services of a third-party consultant who has developed a multi-year plan for preventative maintenance of roadways. This includes patching, crack filling, seal coating and repaving of the streets.
Signage
There are over 2,500 signs that DC Ranch is responsible for repairing and updating. In 2024, the following neighborhoods will see some of their sign blades updated to meet the sign standard: Arcadia, Camelot, Country Club, Desert Haciendas, Estates, Haciendas, Horseshoe, Market Street Villas, Montelena, Pioneer, Terrace Homes East/West and Windgate.
Water Features
DC Ranch has many water features throughout the community. Many of them are small which requires minimal, ongoing maintenance; however, the larger water features do require regular maintenance. In 2024, the famous Ethel’s Garden water feature will see a fountain surface refresh. This will enhance the water feature to ensure that it blends in with the other beautiful parts of the garden.
Ongoing programs
All Levels Yoga
Monday and Wednesdays | 9 to 10 a.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Strength and Balance
Monday, Wednesday or Thursday
10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Yoga Basics
Tuesday and Thursday | 9 to 10 a.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Hand & Foot Canasta Club
Thursday | 1 to 3:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Zumba
Friday | 10 to 11 a.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Pickleball Club
Sunday | 7 to 10 a.m.
Desert Camp Courts
Sunday, April 7 | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Bring lawn seating, a picnic and enjoy the beautiful spring weather with some live music!
Grapenuts:
Becoming a Sommelier
Wednesday, April 10 | 6 to 8 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP
Join a seasoned sommelier for a lively discussion about the nuances of wine appreciation and the journey to becoming a certified wine connoisseur. Please bring a favorite bottle of wine to share with the group.
Women's Club: Arizona Heritage Center
Thursday, April 11 | 10 a.m. to Noon
Meet at Arizona Heritage Center
Ages 18+ | RSVP
Embark on a captivating journey through Arizona’s vibrant history. Residents will discover fascinating exhibits, artifacts and stories that come to life, providing a deeper understanding of the unique heritage that defines State 48.
Events are subject to change. Check DCRanch.com/calendar for the most up-to-date listing information.
Please note: To sign up for all activities, you must create a CivicRec account. Details at DCRanch.com/CivicRec.
Friday, April 12 | 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Ages 8-12 | $18
Get ready to dodge, duck and dive! Young residents will have a blast navigating through obstacle courses and engaging in adrenaline-pumping foam dart battles. Pizza, soda and water included.
Ranch Walk: Silverleaf Village
Tuesday, April 16 | 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Meet at Copper Ridge School
All ages | RSVP
Step outside and explore the natural beauty of DC Ranch. Enjoy a moderately difficult walk (less than 3 miles) with neighbors along the path and trail system. Please wear appropriate shoes and bring a water bottle.
Thursday, April 18 | 5 to 7 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Enjoy some of the Valley’s best food trucks as they roll into DC Ranch.
Friday, April 19 | 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 bring their own lawn seating, snacks and drinks. Parking is available on the south end of Market Street.
Off the Ranch: Bowling Night
Thursday, April 25 | 6 to 8 p.m.
Meet at Bowlero
Ages 21+ | $23
Strike up some fun with neighbors. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual bowler, everyone is welcome. Ticket includes two hours of bowling, appetizers, two drinks and shoe rental.
Chinese export porcelain spans a rich history from the 16th to the 20th century. The term “export” refers to ceramics specifically crafted for western taste, primarily European and North American markets.
Early exports, particularly destined for Europe, were characterized by sturdy construction to withstand transportation, but rudimentary finishing catered to less refined tastes. European interest in Chinese porcelain expanded through Ottoman Empire trade routes and Portuguese Malaysian settlements.
The Portuguese introduction of Ming dynasty blue-and-white porcelains to Europe ignited a wildfire trend, leading to the Kraak porcelain trade. Kraak (Dutch Kraakporselein) was produced mainly in the late Ming dynasty, in the Wanli reign (1573–1620), but also in the Tianqi (1620–1627) and the Chongzhen (1627–1644) reigns. By the 17th century, Chinese export porcelains were prized possessions, prominently featured in European artworks and collections.
The Kangxi Emperor’s reign (Qing dynasty third emperor, 1654-1722) witnessed a renaissance in Chinese porcelain, with the flourishing export trade of blue-and-white. From 1680 to 1720 this expanded to famille verte wares (green-and-white).
Kraak was among the first Chinese export ware to arrive in Europe in mass quantities. With a fascination with new-found exotic luxuries, Dutch still life Golden Age paintings prominently featured these stylish blue-and-white dishes. Subsequent European ventures, especially by the Dutch East India Company, fueled an unprecedented influx of Chinese and Japanese export porcelain.
Europeans amassed extensive collections, often showcased in dedicated spaces like the Trianon
de Porcelaine. However, catering to European tastes posed challenges for Jingdezhen potters, who struggled to reproduce eccentric European designs perfectly. The demand for armorial porcelain surged around 1700, with thousands of services ordered featuring personalized coats of arms. Chinese artisans also replicated popular Japanese Imari porcelain, catering to evolving Western tastes.
As European porcelain industries matured, copying the styles in finer materials that needn’t withstand extensive shipping, competition intensified, leading to further decline in Chinese export ware quality. Canton porcelain emerged as a notable export from Guangzhou, with pieces painted to Western preferences at the Thirteen Factories.
Export wares featured an eclectic mix of shapes and motifs, including Oriental figurines, Europeaninspired designs, and patterns like tobacco leaf and intricate Canton decorations. European subject designs were popular, from Western prints featuring mythological, religious, and anecdotal themes.
The legacy of Chinese export porcelain endures as a testament to centuries of cross-cultural exchange and artistic innovation, embodying a rich tapestry of East-West relations.
Follow Thatcher on Instagram @TheArtfulTourist.
Pilates will take you on an exhilarating journey of strength, flexibility, and mind-body connection. Get ready to sculpt your core, improve posture, and deepen your breathing. Whether you’re a rookie or a Pilates pro, let the excitement guide you towards a body transformation you’ve always dreamed of!
Come Try Pilates today! Scan the QR code for your
The Advanced Strategy Center (ASC) conducted comprehensive assessments involving residents, staff, the boards of directors and local stakeholders to understand the current state of the DC Ranch community. This aimed to identify key focus areas and initiatives shaping the community ’s strategic plan for the next 3-5 years. Presenting findings to the Community Council and Ranch Association Boards in January, ASC covered DC Ranch’s current status, future outlook, feedback on existing principles and initiatives, and strategic focus areas. The strategic plan’s foundation was deemed robust, prompting a year-long focus on updating and revising strategies and tactics for principles and initiatives. Key performance indicators will track progress, fostering ongoing resident engagement through focus groups, committees, or surveys. Regular updates will maintain transparency, and the goal is to implement new tactics by 2025. Continuous monitoring of trends, risks, and opportunities, coupled with active engagement with residents and stakeholders, ensures DC Ranch remains adaptable to emerging issues influencing the strategic plan.
Around the Ranch Photo Contest!
Residents are invited to share their photos of life in DC Ranch for a chance to be featured in Ranch News! Capture a beautiful sunset, a hike with your pup, family enjoying the park, or a get together with neighbors. Share your photos all year long by emailing communications.team@dcranchinc.com or tag #dcranch on Instagram or Facebook.
When in Phoenix, you're never far from desert adventure. The area is home to dozens of parks of miles of multi-use trails for hiking and biking. • From leisurely strolls that meander around climb to the peak of iconic Camelback Mountain, plus wheelchair-accessible trails at several local
Quartz Loop Trail at Cave Creek Regional Park
Distance: 3.6 miles
Quartz Loop Trail offers ridge-hugging paths amid the remains of old, shuttered mining sites and classic Arizona views. Bird-watching and wildflower identification are excellent activities to plan for the family at Cave Creek Regional Park. The trail remains relatively flat, with little increase in elevation, allowing you to enjoy the sights without too much exertion. These wild views will put you in touch with nature and make you fall in love with Arizona’s scenery.
Double Butte Loop and Holein-the-Rock Trail at Papago Park
Distance: 2.3-mile loop
What better way to ogle the uncanny red sandstone formations of Papago Park than hiking around (and inside) them? The smaller two of these beautiful buttes can be explored on an easy dirt loop that starts in the West Park parking lot, accessible from Galvin Parkway. Then, drive across the street to the park’s east side for a quick climb up rocky stairs to peek out from the cave-like Hole-in-theRock, a popular landmark (and prehistoric solstice-tracking tool) with views of an oasis and distant city skyline.
Cholla Trail at Camelback Mountain
Distance: 3 miles
Cholla Trail at Camelback Mountain is right in the middle of Phoenix, making it an excellent urban destination for daily workouts. Because this route is heavily traversed, your chances of seeing wildlife are low, but botanical enthusiasts will spot all of Phoenix’s classic Sonoran plants on this trail. Saguaro cacti, cholla, and Christmas cacti are among the dense foliage along the Cholla Trail.
Tom’s Thumb at Scottsdale
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
Distance: 4.3 miles
Deceptively flat to start, Tom’s Thumb trail increases elevation quickly with a steep climb up switchbacks. After the initial push, the path levels out and reveals otherworldly scenery populated by massive boulder formations. This preserve has ample parking, a plus for urban trail exploration. If you want to
DIFFICULTY RATING | EASY DIFFICULTY RATINGBy Visit Phoenix parks and preserves—both in and around the city—offering hundreds the red rock buttes of Papago Park, to the strenuous and rewarding local parks, there's a trail for nearly every type of adventurer.
see a favorite local photo spot and also feel like you’re on another planet while strolling amidst car-sized boulders, Tom’s Thumb is a must!
Piestewa Peak Nature Trail #304 at Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Distance: 1.3 miles
Bird watchers and wildlife lovers flock to this moderately difficult trail at Phoenix Mountain Preserve. If you’re not quite ready to sweat it all the way to the top of Piestewa Peak via the Summit Trail, then this hike is a great chance to experience similar sights. Odd rock formations and abundant wildflowers dot the scenic desert landscape. According to reviews, the trail can be rocky and steep at times; however, it is family-friendly for children over eight years old. If you’re in the mood for quintessential Arizona views, family fun, and breaking a bit of a sweat, Nature Trail #304 will satisfy.
Echo Canyon Trail
on Camelback Mountain
Distance: 2.4 miles
The summit of Camelback is one of the highest hikes in Phoenix and arguably the best view you can achieve here on two feet. That means this trail stays very busy, but don’t let it deter you from tackling the Phoenix landmark. Echo Canyon Trail climbs from the north side parking lot to a height of 2,704 feet (and we mean climbs – you’ll need your hands free for 1,200 feet of elevation gain, some scrambling up a steep slope at the beginning and hopping boulders near the peak). Save some time to relax and enjoy the 360-degree beauty at the top.
Thompson Peak at McDowell Mountain Regional Park
Distance: 9.5 miles
Thompson Peak is the longest hike on our list, and it is not for the faint of heart. When setting out to tackle this trail, pack plenty of water. Your endurance and leg strength will be tested along the way as you ascend 2,066 feet up
the mountain. Experienced hikers say that you have to love a challenge to enjoy Thompson Peak, and the challenge is worth it for the gobsmacking 360-degree view.
Piestewa Peak Summit Trail at Phoenix Mountain Preserve
Distance: 2.26 miles
Don’t let the short distance of this trail fool you; it is quite the challenge. You will hoist yourself up multiple sets of large stairs carved into rock while, at times, holding onto a metal rail to keep your footing on loose ground. Panoramic views from the top of the peak are coveted in Phoenix, but not everyone is up for the task.
Heed the sign that reads “extremely difficult” at the trailhead. Despite the difficulty level, this hike is popular and crowded. Upon ascent to the peak, you will be blown away by the endless landscape and cooler temperature, thanks to the elevation. If you’re ready for a great workout in a short period of time, head out to Piestewa Peak Summit Trail.
Piestewa Peak
Most parents are familiar with the importance of maintaining reading skills over the summer— but what about math? Too often math practice goes by the wayside, leaving many students returning to school with rusty skills and little time to review before encountering new material.
With many students testing below grade level on state achievement tests, summer learning loss only compounds the problem. Studies have shown that students lose about 2.5 months of math over the summer… unless they’re working on it!
Here are some real-world ideas to keep your student’s skills sharp:
1. Ask your student to calculate your arrival time on your next outing (Ex. It is 9:15 now and our drive is 32 minutes. When will we arrive?)
2. Use a trip to the grocery store to practice addition, calculating tax, or finding discounts
3. Ask your student to calculate the tip on your next restaurant bill
4. Calculate how much it will cost to buy enough gas to fill up the car
5. Pay for things in cash and have your student practice counting coins and making change (great subtraction and money recognition practice!)
6. Give your students an analog clock or watch to tell time this summer
7. Ask students to add or multiply the digits on license plates while on road trips or running errands around town
8. Go on a shape scavenger hunt around your house
9. Practice real-world fractions by baking (doubling or halving recipes is a great way to get in some fraction work)
10. Enroll in a summer learning program at Mathnasium
Mathnasium creates customized learning plans for each student that are proven to not only prevent summer learning loss but can even reverse it, turning summer into a net positive in a student’s education.
“Seeing the confidence in students’ eyes after just a few sessions is my favorite part,” says a local Center Director. “They go from feeling defeated about math to being excited to learn something new. It never gets old.”
Mathnasium understands that students may not be thrilled to do math over summer. On top of the standard rewards structure (where students have earned prizes ranging from candy to iPads), there are all sorts of theme days and opportunities to earn extra stamps, including a summer-long game that reviews important math concepts in an exciting and engaging way.
Interested in trying Mathnasium? Set up a free assessment and mention this article for free registration (at the DC Ranch location next to Safeway only).
Each spring, the DC Ranch Community Council, Ranch Association and Covenant Commission host a Values Awards Ceremony, celebrating employees who exemplify the team values across the previous year. The five team values were developed in 2019 through ideas and feedback from all three entities. They guide the conduct of the team as they interact with each other, residents and stakeholders.
Congratulations to the deserving DC Ranch team members who were honored in February with peernominated awards at the fifth annual ceremony. The 2024 Team Values Awards recipients in each category are:
Innovation: Blaze new trails while honoring our legacy
Jeff Shaw | IT Manager
Jeff joined the team in 2023 and is DC Ranch’s newest team member to be recognized. Jeff manages IT administration for all team members. He has significantly enhanced operations and made internal and external improvements to benefit the team and residents. His positivity, solutionoriented approach, and knowledge are much appreciated.
Passion: Put our hearts into all we do Scott Dennerline
Senior Landscape Review Specialist Scott has been with DC Ranch for 20 years, upholding the vision and covenants of the community. Scott is passionate about the relationship with the larger community and environment stewardship, and works
with individuals so they understand the relationship with the natural environment and DC Ranch architectural aesthetics.
Fun: Seek moments of joy
Aaron Largo Community Standards Manager
Aaron originally joined the Ranch Association from 2014-2019 and returned in 2022. He is responsible for assisting homeowners in adhering to the community guidelines and DC Ranch vision. Compliance may not always be fun, but his friendly demeanor, bright personality and optimistic outlook help him connect with residents and team members.
Professionalism: Act with integrity and strive for excellence
Deborah Lanza | Front Desk Receptionist
Since 2022, Deborah is the friendly face that greets residents at The Ranch Offices on Market Street. She assists with new resident welcome, tenant registrations, and helps direct residents, vendors and stakeholders to the appropriate team members.
Teamwork: Connect, collaborate and create
Rafael Lopez | Custodian
Rafael has been with DC Ranch since 2006. His career started with the Ranch Association Landscape & Maintenance team and transitioned to the Community Council Maintenance & Custodial team where he focuses on The Homestead, guard houses and special projects. Rafael knows the DC Ranch brand and keeps the community centers in top notch condition.
The desert Southwest is facing serious environmental pressures as illustrated by a number of local and regional actions, including:
• Water restrictions due to drought and decline of the Colorado River basin
• Code changes by the City of Scottsdale to prevent mandates for overseeding
• Implementation of Firewise across DC Ranch for wildfire mitigation
To address these, and other related issues, the DC Ranch Sustainability Committee has been established to serve in an advisory capacity on sustainability initiatives and environmental practices for the DC Ranch organization and community-at-large. This committee includes resident volunteers with a background in different aspects of sustainability, including environmental science, landscaping, recycling and technology.
The Strategic Plan sets forth the goal to enhance environmental sustainability within DC Ranch through its policies and practices.
To that end, the Sustainability Committee will work with the Executive Director to provide advice to the DC Ranch boards of directors, residents and businesses in the following areas:
• Routinely review, update and monitor adherence to the DC Ranch Community Standards that were designed to aid in the protection of the natural desert and surrounding landscapes.
• Evaluate and recommend use of alternative energy sources and best management practices for the organization and community.
• Recommend water conservation practices and programs for the organization and community.
• Foster partnership with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy on joint programs for preservation of the natural desert environment.
• Compliance with local, state or federal codes, rules and regulations and best practices relating to sustainability.
• Communicate with DC Ranch and the community on environmental practices and opportunities to enhance sustainability.
• Consider, research and evaluate new environmentally sustainability practices for the community.
The three pillars of sustainability include reduction of carbon footprint, protection of the natural environment and elimination of waste. This last pillar is where we can have immediate impact on the environment. What follows are tips on how you can take positive action on elimination of waste.
As consumers, our impact on the environment begins the moment we decide to purchase something. Why do we need it? How will it be packaged, delivered, used, and disposed of at the end of its useful life? These questions, and many others, should be asked if we want to minimize our environmental impact. The answers lie in the 5 R’s below, a set of practices used to reduce waste.
Refuse is the first line of defense in the battle against waste and overconsumption. By refusing to buy products with excessive packaging, single-use plastics, or harmful chemicals, you can actively prevent unnecessary waste and pollutants from entering the environment.
Reduce focuses on minimizing resource consumption and waste generation by using fewer materials, energy and water in your daily activities. This can be as simple as turning off lights when not in use or composting food waste instead of sending it down the drain or to the landfill.
Reuse means finding multiple uses for items to extend their lifespan and minimize waste. Instead of discarding items after one use, find ways to safely and conveniently reuse them. Plastic bags and bottles, paper cups, aluminum foil and many other household items are great candidates for reuse.
Repurpose gives new life to old or unwanted items by finding alternative uses for them. Upcycling used furniture or clothing, or repurposing glass containers for storage are creative ways you can reduce household waste.
Recycle completes the sustainability loop by transforming used materials into new products. This conserves energy, reduces pollution, and decreases the demand for virgin materials. Properly separating paper, cardboard, plastic and glass from non-recyclables is the first step in efficient recycling.
In future issues of Ranch News each of the 5 R’s will be outlined in more detail. In the meantime, begin your journey as an environmentally conscious consumer by putting these simple steps into practice today.
DC Ranch Gives: Shred Day Saturday, April 27 9 a.m. to Noon.
The Homestead Community Center Parking Lot
Shred sensitive documents at the Annual Shred Day. DC Ranch Gives is partnering with The Matheson Real Estate Team for this opportunity to dispose of old paperwork and raise funds for Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children. Easy drive up and drop off convenience. Electronic recycling also available. Suggested $10 donation per box.
Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list, published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of each team’s best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and team, and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK
Whether you’re a member or a guest, The Spa at DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa is your ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The seasoned staff and luxurious treatment rooms are dedicated to helping you relax, recover and replenish. As a premier health spa, the staff is focused on lowering stress, reducing pain, and maintaining healthy skin for all clients.
The DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa is highlighting a pair of services: Hydralessence Facial A luxurious facial treatment, this service is an ultra-hydrating skin quench designed for Arizona’s dry climate. Soothing to damaged skin, this facial is a perfect ally for traumatized skin from lasers, peels or sun exposure. This facial can be upgraded to include dermaplaning to help rejuvenate and combat fine lines and wrinkles.
Acupuncture Elevate your wellness with Acupuncture services in the spa, now available with Marie Veverka, LAC Licensed Acupuncture. The spa is offering 20% off Acupuncture services in April and May, and single and group services are available.
Acupuncture helps elevate pain, ease anxiety, aid in relaxation and improve overall wellness, plus many more benefits.
Even further, personalized treatments at the spa will help with other pursuits, such as yoga, Pilates, tennis, basketball, swimming and more. The professionals at the spa offer tailor-made treatments and treatment packages based on individualized needs, whether some-
one is a first-time guest or regular visitor. Beyond pampering, expert technicians work to improve tissue health, therapeutic recovery, and optimal body spa services. A gift card to the spa is also the perfect present for Mother’s Day, as she can choose from an extensive list of services, such as massages, body treatments, facials, hair care, nails, and waxing. Bundle her gift in the Village Experience package, which includes three services from
a select list, along with a breakfast or lunch entrée and beverage.
Spa guests who are not members of the DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa are also able to take advantage of the 82,000 square foot facility and all of its amenities, including traditional and hot yoga classes, cardio and weight rooms, basketball, squash and racquetball courts, swimming pools and more.
For more information, please visit villageclubs.com or call 480.515.5522.
This year at The ARTrageous Gala, you will be able to experience a solar wonderland, where dance, music and contemporary art converge,” said Erin Krivanek, director of development for Scottsdale Arts. “Collaborative acts and interactive stations foster shared creativity among Scottsdale Arts departments, while this year's innovative dining offers two ticket levels for a unique journey, blending celestial-inspired performances with gourmet cuisine at multiple stations.” The theme for this year’s gala is “Cosmic Crescendo,” and the multidisciplinary arts organization plans to capture the awe-inspiring essence of a solar eclipse. In addition to culinary delights and plenty of photo ops, the event will entertain guests with a harmonious symphony of art forms as dance, music and contemporary art merge into a captivating spectacle. Collaborative acts and interactive art stations will foster a sense of shared creativity. This annual event is the primary fundraiser for the nonprofit Scottsdale Arts, which includes Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), Scottsdale Public Art, Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation, Canal Convergence and Civic Center LIVE.
The general admission Galaxy tickets are $450 each or $4,500 for a set of 10. This flexible option also features four gourmet food stations but in an open-seating experience with the choice of hightops or tables scattered throughout for a relaxed and communal dining atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to dress in upscale, artistic attire that matches the night’s celestial theme, perhaps with starry accessories or lunar colors.
Constellation Club tickets are $650 each or $6,500 for a table of 10. This option provides an optimal setting to indulge in celestial-inspired cuisine. Constellation Club ticketholders may navigate freely between four gourmet food stations before returning to their reserved seating, which features wine service and exclusive lounge areas.
Per tradition, Scottsdale Arts will recognize multiple awardees during the evening’s events. This year’s honorees include the following:
• Herberger Award for the Arts: John and Karen Voris
• Trailblazing Artist: Dorothy Fratt
• Corporate Trailblazer: Nationwide
“We are recognizing an extraordinarily successful year and a new lifecycle in the history of our organization,” said Dr. Gerd Wuestemann, president and CEO of Scottsdale Arts. “With Scottsdale Civic Center and its three outdoor stages fully activated, an entire new generation of culture lovers is discovering Scottdale once again as an arts destination. And the ‘crescendo’ of our evolution is just beginning; with a new, small theater project on the horizon and a vision for a future expansion of SMoCA and Learning & Innovation facilities, the development of this already wonderful arts campus into one of the finest destinations in the Southwest is definitely in the stars!”
The ARTrageous Gala will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 6. For more information, visit Gala.ScottsdaleArts.org.
