DC Ranch News - August 2024 by LOCALiQ

Resident Julia Mitchell shares her Grand Canyon adventure

Adventure awaits!

Only a few years ago, our ability to explore was hampered by the pandemic. Learning and adventure were restricted to what we could experience through reading, connecting over Zoom, or viewing on our screens. We got creative: walking through our neighborhoods, biking the greenbelt, road trips to state and national parks, camping.

After being cooped up for years, the desire to get out and about is back and stronger than ever. At DC Ranch programs, meetings and gatherings, there’s a steady hum from conversations about activities and travel plans.

Where did your summer take you? Overseas to explore a different culture or climate? Perhaps to visit family on the coast? If you are seeking adventure, you do not have to go far. Opportunities abound throughout the great state of Arizona. Need ideas? Check out our feature story on pages 10-11.

Of course, there’s no place like home. So when you return to the Ranch, we welcome you back with opportunities to explore what is happening locally. Check out DCRanch.com to learn about programs and events to reconnect with neighbors as the summer season winds down. Join us at a committee or board meeting to learn about important projects and initiatives on the Ranch. Attend a City Council Candidate Forum at The Homestead to learn about who is campaigning to represent you at the local level.

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

DC Ranch Community Values

• Sense of Community

• Environmental Stewardship

• Family

• Healthy Lifestyles

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.

Jenna Kohl DC Ranch Executive Director

RANCH UPDATES

School back in session

Back to school is an incredibly busy time as new routines begin for so many DC Ranch families. With increased traffic and new drivers in the area, please be mindful of your speed. DCR-24 Speeding states all persons traveling on DC Ranch private roads system must obey the speed limit. The DC Ranch speed limit is 15 MPH unless posted otherwise. Violations of over 10 MPH over the speed limit will incur a fine, with escalating fines for additional tickets. Legacy Boulevard, Thompson Peak Parkway and the south loop of Desert Camp Drive are public thoroughfares monitored by the Scottsdale Police Department.

Help control mosquito breeding

With monsoon season underway through the end of September, the likelihood of increased rainfall is expected and can occur without much warning. Mosquitos need water and warm weather to thrive, so it is imperative residents stay vigilant in checking their property for breeding sites. It only takes a small amount of standing water in a flowerpot saucer, bird bath or fountain for mosquito larvae to hatch in as little as three days. The Ranch Association maintenance team actively monitors common areas and parks and utilizes Maricopa County resources to set traps to measure mosquito breeding activity. Peak biting times are at dusk and dawn, and grassy areas tend to be worse as that’s where mosquitos like to rest and hide. Despite localized efforts, these insects can travel five to ten miles from breeding sites. The best protection is to use insect repellant or wear long pants and sleeves when outdoors. Visit maricopa.gov and search "fight the bite" for more informational resources.

Community Standards for Natural Open Space (NOS)

NOS areas are land owned by DC Ranch or the owner of a private lot, with the easement acting as a deed restriction. A city of Scottsdale ordinance mandates the dedication of the NOS to permanently preserve specific environmental features including washes, mountain ridges and desert plants. These easements are dedicated common tracts within subdivisions or on lots throughout DC Ranch. Standards for Landscape DCRL-09 states that the only maintenance that should be done is removing foreign debris, such as trash, construction debris and invasive grasses or plants. Trimming for safety concerns requires prior approval by calling The Ranch Offices at 480.513.1500.

One of the most common elements addressed by the DC Ranch Community Standards team is exterior paint. The typical life expectancy recommended by most paint manufacturers is eight to 10 years, but couple that with Arizona’s extreme heat and sunny days and that lifespan can shorten.While paint can be costly, it is also an easy and effective way to update your home to be more contemporary with current trends and color palettes. Any change in color choices must receive prior approval from the Modification Committee. The committee meets bi-monthly to review all types of exterior modifications, additions or changes. The five-person group is appointed each year by the Ranch Association Board of Directors and consists of a board member serving as Chair, volunteer residents and may include non-residents that are associated by professions, such as designers or architects. Submittal fees vary and may be required depending upon the type of change requested. Visit DCRanch.com for the Paint Modification Form or call The Ranch Offices to speak to the Community Standards team.

MONTHLY PLANNER

Ongoing programs

All Levels Yoga

Monday and Wednesday | 9 to 10 a.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Strength and Balance

Monday and Wednesday

10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday and 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

Pickleball Club

Sunday | 7 to 10 a.m. Desert Camp Courts

Women's Club: Qigong

Thursday, Aug. 8 | 5 to 6 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 18+ | $12

Learn how to optimize the energies of body, mind and spirit through powerful ancient sequences of movement, meditation and breath. This class is for all levels; no previous experience needed.

Back to School Bounce

Saturday, Aug. 10 | 2 to 3:30 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 4-12 | $12

Kids are invited to escape the heat and join neighbors for some indoor fun, games, crafts and snacks. There will be multiple bounce houses and an obstacle course. Children must be 4+ and must attend with a parent or guardian. No fee for adults.

Events are subject to change. Check DCRanch.com/calendar for the most up-to-date information. Please note: To sign up for all activities, you must create a CivicRec account. Details at DCRanch.com/CivicRec.

Social Hour

Friday, Aug. 23 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP

Mix and mingle during a relaxing happy hour indoors. These casual gatherings provide a nice way to end the week, cool off and chat with friends or get to know new neighbors. Light bites, beer and wine provided.

City Council Candidate Forum

Monday, Aug. 26 | 6 to 7 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Six candidates for Scottsdale City Council will be asked questions by a moderated panel. This is a convenient way to hear from the candidates and make a betterinformed vote during the general election on Nov. 5.

Scottsdale Progress and the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce are partnering with DC Ranch for the event, which is open to the public. DC Ranch does not endorse any candidate.

Rock crystal, a clear and colorless variety of quartz, has been prized for its beauty and purity for millennia. From ancient amulets to modern jewelry, its history is a testament to the enduring allure of nature's unique treasures. Rock crystal in decorative arts dates back to the Ancient and Classical Periods. In Egypt, it was carved into small amulets and containers, believed to have protective properties and used in burial rituals. Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder described it as “frozen water,” indicating its perceived purity and mystical qualities. During the Roman period, it was fashioned into delicate vessels, jewelry and ornamental objects, demonstrating a high level of craftsmanship attained by ancient artisans.

Rock crystal through the ages

During the Middle Ages, rock crystal’s clarity symbolized purity and divine light, making it particularly suitable for ecclesiastical art. Christian reliquaries, designed to hold sacred relics, were frequently adorned with rock crystal, which allowed both clear viewing and offered protection. Artisans developed sophisticated techniques to carve and polish the crystal, creating intricate and highly detailed works.

The Renaissance marked a significant evolution in rock crystal’s use, driven by renewed interest in classical antiquity and advancements in cutting and engraving. Italian artisans, particularly in Venice and Florence, became renowned for their

exquisite creations. They produced elaborately carved goblets, bowls and figurines, often incorporating precious materials such as gold and gemstones.

In the Baroque period, rock crystal reached new heights. Prized for its ability to refract light, it was a favorite among European nobility for creation of dazzling chandeliers, candelabra, and mirrors. Rock crystal was also employed in scientific instruments such as lenses and prisms, reflecting the era’s fascination with optics.

The Industrial Revolution brought changes in production and use of rock crystal. Machinery advances allowed more precise cutting and polishing, making it accessible to a broader audience. In the 19th century, it was often used in jewelry, watchmaking, and ornamental objects, showcasing the material’s versatility and lasting appeal.

The Art Deco movement saw a revival of interest in rock crystal, incorporated into sleek and modern designs. Renowned designers like René Lalique and Carl Fabergé created stunning rock crystal pieces that blended traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics.

Today, rock crystal continues to be sought-after in decorative arts and jewelry. Its timeless beauty, and the skill required to work it, ensure its place as a symbol of luxury and refinement. To see a particularly good collection, visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria.

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!

Thatcher

Two developments near DC Ranch under construction

American First Builders received city of Scottsdale permits to begin plant salvaging and grading on a new 52 lot subdivision at the northwest corner of 94th Street and Bell Road. The northern border of this subdivision abuts DC Ranch’s Desert Hacienda’s neighborhood. The Mack Company is also set to start tree salvaging and grading on their Industrial parcel at the southwest corner of Pima Road and the 101 Freeway and extending south to Bell Road. This large warehouse project will be built in phases; Phase 1 consists of infrastructure and constructing two of the buildings on the north portion of the site. Most construction traffic will enter the site from Bell Road.

Residents will see construction fences erected on both properties. Neither development is in DC Ranch.

Desert Camp Community Center Site Improvement Project update

The renovation and construction project at Desert Camp has been underway for 6 months. The improvements include an expanded fitness center, dedicated fitness studio, enhanced resident gathering spaces, four new pickleball courts, and a walking path around the center. Reserve projects for the pools and tennis courts are also underway, taking advantage of the closure to refresh other amenities before the re-opening.

This summer, there have been several major milestones in the project. In late May/early June, the concrete slabs were poured for the floors of the new expansion. That work began early in the morning to minimize cracking of the slabs. Throughout June and July, the expansion began to “go vertical” as the framing was put into place for the walls and roof and rough-in started for plumbing, electrical, HVAC and other systems. Inside the original building, work continued on the renovations, which include turning the old fitness center into a multipurpose room.

For more information on the project and to view photos and videos of the work, visit DCRanch.com/DCSIP.

Around the Ranch Photo Contest

Share your favorite photos of life on the Ranch with readers of Ranch News. Please email photo submissions with your name and a title or description of the image to communications.team@dcranchinc.com.

FRATANTONI

THE PREMIER REMODELING/ INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM FOR DC RANCH & SILVERLEAF

Desert Camp construction

Another day at the office by Omar Conchas-Acuna

On the water

There are eight lakes and rivers within a 60-minute drive of Scottsdale, which means you’re never far from fishing, kayaking, river rafting, tubing, paddle boarding and boat tours.

Nicknamed as the “The Other Grand Canyon,” the Salt River remains a lesser-known gem nestled between the Fort Apache Reservation and Tonto National Forest. Plan ahead for an exhilarating rafting trip on the Salt River that can last from a few hours up to 4 days (MarchMay only)! The rapids include fun and friendly class II, wet and fun class III, and high water thrilling class IV! Mild2wildrafting.com

For those whose taste for adventure is a little more tame, consider a kayak excursion on the Verde River from Cottonwood. The Sporty and Sweet Trip is perfect for first-time boaters, kids, or those with limited amounts of time. No experience is necessary on this half-day, self-guided, wild and scenic river trip where you can enjoy the privacy and beauty of Arizona’s great outdoors. Sedonaadventuretours.com

ATV rentals and tours

Arizona Outdoor Fun offers an exhilarating adventure that puts you in the driver's seat with the largest fleet of ATVs and UTVs in the state. Prepare to take control and experience the rush of navigating winding mountain trails, carved by centuries of flash floods, with twists and turns that will leave you breathless. As you explore, discover fascinating points of interest, and learn about Arizona’s history and wildlife. Options include guided tours and unguided rentals. Azoutdoorfun.com

Zip through the wild Experience zip lining like never before from above the Out of Africa Wildlife Park on a five-line course. The award-winning eco-tour offers a unique aerial view of your favorite wild animals! Predatorzipline.com

Prefer to be among the pines? Head to Flagstaff for your choice of 30 ziplining and adventure courses. Flagstaffextreme.com

Jeep tour

Sedona’s famous red-rock landscape offers adventure at every turn. Choose from a variety of trips to suit your taste on a Pink Jeep Tour. Each excursion offers an unforgettable backcountry tour with insider info from the area’s most knowledgeable and experienced local guides. Pinkadventuretours.com

Arizona adventure travel starts here

By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

Sometimes the trip of a lifetime is closer than you think! If you’ve ever wanted to step out and try something a little more daring, here is a roundup of bucket list worthy adventures in the great state of Arizona.

Rock climbing

Arizona offers outdoor rock-climbing challenges for all abilities, with a wide variety of routes on a range of rock types and formations. Each tour with 360 Adventures is tailored to your preferences and abilities, and all climbing adventures are private, so no one else will be added to your group. Your guide will provide the personal attention you deserve, while showing you all the fun rock climbing Arizona has to offer. Choose a full-day or half-day climb and enjoy spectacular views and vast landscape vistas. 360-adventures.com

Horseback

Indulge your pioneer spirit with a private pack trip from 2–10 days.

Windwalker Expeditions equestrian guides are experienced horsemen who own and train their own horses, from Quarter Horses to Arabians, in nearby Cave Creek. The well-conditioned horses provide novice or advanced riders with the confidence and security they need to experience unique desert wilderness trails. Windwalkerexpeditions.com

Two years ago, I had an unexpected life-changing event that left me heartbroken. I mustered up the courage and energy to take this “trip of a lifetime” despite my aversion to camping. What I didn’t bargain for was the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual endeavor.

My Grand Canyon adventure began with a group of twenty-four active, long-lived comrades from Vail Club 50. We traveled together for sixteen days along twenty-eight rapids, two hundred twenty-seven miles traveling the upper and lower canyon on the Colorado River in Arizona with the AzRA Rafting Adventures. At the mercy of Mother Nature, we bonded together as we paddled, hiked, sang songs, read, laughed and cried over personal stories.

A resident’s Grand Canyon expedition

The sound of water laughing ensures an approaching rapid. Hold on tight! Falling out of the raft isn’t preferred, though getting wet is a guarantee. We hike among large boulders and dry creek beds in search of spectacular hidden waterfalls. Some brave folks jump off rocks or ledges into the icy waters. As the shadows increase across the water, we stop at a designated camp area and scramble ashore looking for a perfect spot to call home for the night. We unload our rafts, set up tents, unroll sleeping bags, unpack what we might need for the evening including headlamps, warm clothes and perhaps a cribbage board or a deck of cards.

By Julia Mitchell

The days began with a hot breakfast as we packed up our gear and gathered to hear the day’s itinerary, a little history, along with motivational words of wisdom and wonder. In times of quiet on the water, we admire the wildlife and fauna experienced by previous river travelers. We watch Merganser ducks cruising by and bighorn sheep play along the cliffs.

After dinner and dessert are consumed around the campfire, we listen to our guide play her folk guitar, singing beautiful melodies within the walls of our theater. Starry lights begin to magically appear overhead. The moon crests over the towering canyon walls with rays of light dancing on the water. And the breezes gently blowing through the canyon whispered to me, “Let it go. That which you are seeking is already seeking you.”

LOCAL LENS Window dressing for the desert lifestyle

By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

Southwest Blinds and Shutters, a go-to destination for window covering solutions for over 20 years, proudly announces the grand opening of its newest showroom in North Scottsdale. Homeowners and designers alike are invited to discover the perfect window treatments for their space.

Located in the vibrant heart of DC Ranch on Market Street, the new showroom promises to redefine the window covering shopping experience by offering a diverse selection of premium products without compromising on approachability and friendly service. The exclusive product line features desert-specific components and materials that ensure a longerlasting, better-performing window covering that is more resilient to the harsh sun. They also offer professional installation to ensure a seamless, hassle-free experience for customers.

“At Southwest Blinds and Shutters, we take great pride in delivering the best home improvement experience and believe that luxury should be accessible to everyone,” said James Hutchings, CEO and founder. “With the opening of our newest showroom, we aim to create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere where customers can explore at their own pace while receiving expert guidance and support from our team.”

First opening their doors in 2002, Southwest Blinds and Shutters has been locally owned and operated with over 30,000 customers served and thousands of 5-star reviews. Their industry experience allows them to offer an extensive range of blinds, shutters, shades and draperies from sleek and sophisticated designs to cozy and inviting textures. Customers will find an array of options to suit their unique taste and lifestyle preferences, along with the guidance from a professional designer to bring their vision to life.

Request a free in-home consultation where a designer will bring hundreds of swatches and samples so you can see exactly what your final product will look like in your home and with your current décor. The goal is to eliminate the surprises of buying from big box stores by bringing the products straight to you. You’ll also have peace of mind that your investment is protected by a 5-year warranty.

By Peggy Prichard

One of the less desirable consequences of getting older is not being able to eat as much as we once could without packing on the pounds. However, maintaining a healthy weight is easier on the joints, helps manage cholesterol and blood pressure, and can help stave off type 2 diabetes. All good reasons to do whatever we can to avoid the weight creep. There is no “one size fits all” solution for weight loss or maintenance. Below are some strategies that you can start using right away.

Calories and portion size

The old “calories in vs. calories out” is tried and true, but slow and steady wins the race with this method. It’s all in the math. Balance a bigger meal with a smaller meal later in the day. When dining out, try taking home half of your plate or sharing an entrée instead.

Restrict, then enjoy Eat healthier on weekdays—focusing on protein, fruits and vegetables— and then indulge a bit more on the weekend. This is a great way to avoid feeling deprived and allows for more leeway when dining out or celebrating a special occasion.

Intermittent fasting

Time restricted eating boasts many health benefits that stretch beyond calorie restriction. The most common method is a 16-hour overnight fast, followed by an 8-hour eating window. If you are on medication, check with your healthcare provider before trying this strategy.

Follow a specific plan

Many swear by Keto, Paleo, Atkins, going carb- or gluten-free, or any number of variations that emphasize more protein, less carbs, healthy fats and vegetables. My 78-year-old neighbor adheres to a strict mediterranean/vegetarian diet which has kept her healthy and slim. She also walks 4-5 miles each day.

Deny the sweet tooth Giving up sugar seems to be a recipe for successful weight management. As with many food choices, moderation is key. Splitting a dessert four ways lessens the guilt and subsequent calorie splurge. How bad can a few bites of cake be anyway?

To drink, or not so much? Many look forward to happy hour, but alcohol does add sneaky empty calories. Same goes for that pick me up treat at your favorite coffee shop.

Eating habits

Peggy is a freelance writer. Read more at middlemindblog.com.

Recycling made simple

By Rich Anzalone | DC Ranch Sustainability Committee

Recycling

is a

crucial aspect

of preserving

our planet’s resources and reducing waste. It’s a simple yet effective way to make a positive impact on the environment.

What are the benefits of recycling? When we recycle, we conserve natural resources such as the desert, minerals and water. This helps to preserve these resources for future generations, and it also reduces the need for new resource extraction, which can have negative environmental impacts. Additionally, recycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, which helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollution.

Another benefit of recycling is that it can save energy. When we recycle materials, we use less energy than we would if we were to extract new resources and create new products. This is because recycling requires less energy to process materials than it takes to extract new resources from the earth.

Recycling also creates jobs. The recycling industry employs millions of people worldwide and is a key driver of economic growth.

But recycling is not just good for the environment and the economy, it is also good for our health. When waste is sent to landfills, it can release harmful chemicals and pollutants

into the air and water. Recycling helps to reduce these pollutants and keep our communities safe and healthy.

There are, however, guidelines for properly preparing materials for recycling. Make sure your recyclable materials are clean, dry and empty. Break down or cut-up cardboard boxes to keep them from getting stuck in your container. Most importantly, do not place plastic bags or liners in your recycling container as they can damage the equipment used at the sorting facility. Instead, many local grocery stores offer plastic shopping bag recycling drop-off containers. Only place the acceptable materials listed on the right in your recycling container.

With just a small amount of effort, each of us can make a difference by reducing, reusing and recycling materials throughout our community, while encouraging our neighbors to do the same.

For more information, visit Scottsdaleaz.gov/solid-waste.

MATERIAL RECYCLE DO NOT RECYCLE

Aluminum Beverage cans and clean Folding chair frames aluminum foil

Aseptic Milk, juice and ice cream Foil juice bags Boxes containers

Cardboard/ Corrugated cardboard boxes, Packing material, Chipboard dry food boxes such as cereal, bar soap or detergent cake mix and cracker containers, boxes, wax/plastic shoe boxes, pizza boxes, liners empty paper towel and toilet tissue tubes

Glass Glass food and beverage Light bulbs, window containers (clear, green glass, mirror glass or amber) ceramics or pottery

Magazines All magazines and telephone Hardbound books books

Metal Cans Food and beverage cans only Other metals, paint cans or toxic materials

Newspaper Newspaper and all inserts Bags or rubber bands

Paper Computer and writing paper, Facial or toilet junk mail, brown paper grocery tissue, paper towels, bags, file folders. (Shredded paper plates, napkins, paper can be contained in diapers, pet food bags a transparent plastic bag to prevent spillage).

Plastics All plastic cups and containers Plastic bags,* #1-7, plastic bottles, jugs, jars, Styrofoam, motor oil yogurt containers, cottage or pool chemical cheese containers, margarine containers and whipped topping tubs, plastic “Clamshell” food containers and disposable plastic cups, including plastic bottle caps

*Clear plastic bags can be used to contain shredded paper.

Advice

what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to Jason Weese for being named to the Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” 2024 list, published on March 8, 2024. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2023.

Weese Harris Hanover Group Jason Weese, CIMA®, CFP ® Managing Director Private Wealth Advisor 425.990.2212 jason.weese@ml.com

Merrill Private Wealth Management 10400 Northeast 4th Street Suite 2500 Bellevue, WA 98004

Supervisory Office 555 California Street 18th Floor San Francisco, CA 94104

844.990.2208

pwa.ml.com/weeseharrishanovergroup

WOMEN’S CLUB HAPPY HOUR

HEALTHY LIVING

By Maureen Aldrich | Blue Zones Scottsdale

Almost two decades ago, Dan Buettner and his National Geographic team trekked the world to understand why people in certain geographic areas (blue zones) lived measurably healthier, longer lives. These are regions where people not only live longer and better but also with less chronic disease and disability. These blue zones result from a unique combination of environmental, cultural, and lifestyle factors that promote health and longevity.

Blue Zones update for Scottsdale

to make. By using the Power 9 where we live, work, learn, and play, we make it easier to get up and move, eat healthily, make new friends, find a reason for being— and live better longer.

During his travels to the five original blue zones, Buettner discovered nine commonalities, the Power 9,® or secrets, that contributed to longevity. Leveraging these secrets, the Blue Zones Project delivers proven tools and resources to transform communities across the U.S.—helping generations of people live longer, healthier, and happier lives by making changes to their environment, social networks, and policies so healthy choices become the easiest

Blue Zones Project ® came to Scottsdale in March 2022 to make the region an even healthier, happier, and more vibrant place to live. Blue Zones and project sponsors HonorHealth, The Cigna Group, and Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona share a commitment to improving the well-being of Scottsdale and the entire region, thereby lowering healthcare costs, increasing productivity, and improving the economy and quality of life for residents, neighbors, and visitors.

Blue Zones Project efforts engage with individuals and various sectors such as worksites, restaurants, grocery stores, schools, and individuals, where physical and social environments can be slightly changed to help everyone live better, longer.

In the last month, we’ve seen leading Scottsdale organizations play a critical role by becoming early adopters in transforming the well-being of Scottsdale, as Blue Zones Project Scottsdale recently announced that HonorHealth Corporate Office, DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa, Gainey Village Health Club & Spa, and ARCHSOL achieved Blue Zones Project Approved™ worksite status.

In addition to the places mentioned joining this journey, individuals can participate by taking the Blue Zones Personal Pledge, a promise to make slight changes in your life over the next six months; volunteer or attend a Blue Zones

By Sydney Rich |

The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix is a must-visit destination for music lovers, offering an immersive journey through the world of music. With its expansive collection of over 4,200 instruments from every country in the world, MIM provides a unique and enriching experience that appeals to visitors of all ages. The summer heat may not be over, but MIM is bustling with exciting events to keep you cool. This is the last chance to see the special exhibition Acoustic America: Iconic Guitars, Mandolins, and Banjos before it closes on September 15. The exhibition showcases instruments owned and played by legends of folk, blues, and bluegrass music, including pieces from icons like Earl Scruggs and Elizabeth Cotten. Notably, over 30 instruments from the personal collection of

mandolin virtuoso David Grisman are on display for the first time. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the rich history and evolution of American acoustic music.

MIM Signature Event weekends are the perfect family outing as summer winds down. Each event is included with museum admission and free for members, ensuring an affordable and fun-filled day for everyone. These events blend education and entertainment with activities like learning new dances, enjoying live music, and exploring global musical traditions—all while “traveling the world” under one roof at MIM. With its packed calendar of events and exhibition highlights, MIM is a wonderful place to visit all year long. Visit MIM.org for more information.