DC Ranch News - January 2022 by LOCALiQ

RANCH

NEWS O n e C o m m u n i t y, F o u r V i l l a g e s : Country Club | Desert Camp Desert Parks | Silverleaf JANUARY 2022 Page 8

Connecting through collecting Page 12

It’s Scrumptious on Market Street Page 14

Ranch Spotlight: New Ranch Association Executive Director Page 19

Currents of time Water and the human history of the McDowell Mountains

Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival

Presorted Standard US Postage PAID Phoenix, AZ Permit No. 1026

Home on the Ranch Exciting things are in store for the Ranch in 2022. A few highlights underway in January include:

DC Ranch Day This annual tradition recalls a twist on the old Frank Sinatra tune: “Home, home on the Ranch.” Celebrate “home” with neighbors by wearing your cowboy best for a Western-themed event that includes live music, line dancing, crafts, games and a delicious BBQ dinner. Hope to see you there! Jenna Kohl Community Council Executive Director

Board seats open Want to give back to your community? The Community Council and Ranch Association are recruiting for board members. Find out more on DCRanch.com. Desert Camp Site Improvements This twentyyear-old facility has received a few face lifts over the years, but nothing like what is in the works as part of the Desert Camp Site Improvement project. New

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.

Community Engagement Director Jona Davis Senior Communications Manager Elizabeth Dankert Communications Coordinators Alexandra Duemer and Terri Raimondi 480.513.1500 communications.team @dcranchinc.com dcranch.com

workout space, a designated room for fitness classes, additional pickleball and tennis courts, a loop trail and other enhancements are in the works. Why undertake such a project? To continue to improve the value of the community for existing and future residents; to better meet needs of residents for health and happiness through exercise; to promote connection, engagement, and much more. Resident survey What do you love about living in DC Ranch? What can we improve? We strive to ensure that our services are aligned with your needs as a resident. Weigh in with your feedback this spring when we launch our tri-annual community-wide survey, in planning stages now.

DC Ranch Community Values A division of Republic Media 200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004 Advertising Lisa Schubert 480.254.9451 VP, Sales–Local Kevin Martinelli Editor Jim Williams Art Director Miles Abernethy

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Sense of Community Environmental Stewardship Family Healthy Lifestyles

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Diversity & Inclusiveness Lifelong Learning Artistic & Cultural Opportunities Relationship with Larger Community

Living Connected 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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Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

R A N C H U P D AT E S

Welcome new Neighborhood Voting Members Join the Association in saluting the following residents who have volunteered as NVMs in 2022 and special thanks to those who have served, many of them for multiple years, as liaisons to their neighborhoods. At the time of print, these are the resident volunteers who have chosen to serve their neighborhoods in the coming year. Official election outcomes may differ.

Desert Parks Village

Desert Camp Village

Country Club Village

Desert Haciendas | Rick Spargo

Market Street Villas | Pam Church

Country Club Longhorn | Vacant

The Villas | Sarah Tabblak

Courtyards at Market Street | Lisa Olsen

Columbia Community | James Dixon

Terraces West | Vacant Terraces East | David Young

Village at Market Street | Vacant

Happy Hollow | Todd Case

Villas at Desert Park | Suzanne Miller

Villas at Desert Camp | Ron Stacy

Cross Canyon | Sharon Devine

Park & Manor North | Chris Kirkpatrick

Pioneer | Jon Dubauskas

Tapadero | Arthur Landau, Bill Rau

Montelena | Ned Dobak

Iron Springs | Jim Sullivan

Park & Manor South | John Shaw

Camelot 93rd Place | Wendy Myers,

Craggy Spur | Sharon Devine

The Estates East | Grant Venable

Camelot 94th Way | Andrea Bin

The Estates West | Vacant

Camelot 96th Way | Jack Daugherty

Silverleaf Village

Courtyards at Desert Parks | Vacant

Rosewood | Kathleen Cummings The Haciendas | Lauren Mackin

*New volunteers are listed in bold.

Neighborhood Conversations in the Park DC Ranch executive leadership resumes its neighborhood outreach program to gain feedback and insight from residents throughout the community. The executive directors and board members from both the Community Council and Ranch Association want to visit your neighborhood to share ideas and engage in conversation on how to preserve the DC Ranch brand and enhance life on the Ranch. To host such an event, please call The Ranch Offices at 480.513.1500. The Ranch Association will help notify neighbors, post the event date and time and bring refreshments and light snacks to enjoy. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with staff, leadership and neighbors.

Monterey | Michelle Cross

Rob’s Camp | Vacant Silverleaf Village 5.1-5.7 | Vacant Silverleaf Village 102nd St | Sue Greenberg

Saguaro Canyon | Vacant

Retiring NVMs Please join the Ranch Association in extending its appreciation to the following NVM representatives who served their friends and neighbors in 2021: Theresa Johnson of The Villas, Lane Heimsoth of Terrace Homes East, Doug Wilson of The Estates (West), Ann Barker of Saguaro Canyon/ Silverleaf, Angela Thompson of Wingspan/Silverleaf, Meg Sassaman of The Courtyards at Desert Parks and Barry Chasse and John Zyadet, both of Arcadia at Silverleaf. A special note of thanks to Bob Nathan of Camelot 94th Way and Frank Tranisi of Country Club/Longhorn who both dedicated multiple years serving as NVMs for their neighborhoods.

Ranch Association Board election

The election process begins Feb. 1 when candidate forms are posted on DCRanch.com. There are three seats up for election: Vice-President Stephen Koven, Treasurer Sam Hawkins and Director Don Matheson. Be sure to connect with your Neighborhood Voting Member (NVM) about your candidate choice or consider throwing your hat into the ring to serve.

Community Council Board election The DC Ranch Community Council welcomes applications to serve on its Board of Directors. The Council Board will consider all applications submitted by Feb. 1. For more information and an application form, visit DCRanch.com. Questions may also be emailed to jenna.kohl@dcranchinc.com.

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Board members play an important role in ensuring that the Ranch Association’s governance functions effectively and efficiently. Candidates should be willing to implement the Board’s roles and responsibilities as defined in the Election Timeline Ranch governing documents and Feb. 1 Candidate applications represent the best interests of DC posted on DCRanch.com Ranch and its residents by acting Feb. 7 Election kickoff at Board with the highest standards of integ of Directors meeting rity, thought, judgment and confiMarch 4 Deadline for candidate dentiality. The newly-elected direc applications tors will serve three-year terms and March 14 Meet the Candidates Night be announced at the Annual Meeting. 6 p.m. at The Homestead Qualified candidates must be at least March 16 Ballots mailed to NVMs 18 years of age and own property and residents as needed or reside in DC Ranch. Please call April 11 Annual Meeting/election The Ranch Offices at 480.513.1500 results for more information.

M O N T H LY P L A N N E R Women’s Club: Happy Hour Thursday, Jan. 13 5 to 7 p.m. | Sophia’s Kitchen Ages 21+ | RSVP

Enjoy lively conversation and mountain views on the expansive patio at Sophia's Kitchen. Italian classic appetizers will be provided. Seating is limited.

All in-person events will be held following public health guidelines and social distancing protocols. Events are subject to change. Check DCRanch.com/calendar for the most up-to-date listing information.

Pickleball Field Trip

Friday, Jan. 14 | 8:30 to 4 p.m. Departs Desert Camp Ages 21+ | $55

Join other pickleball enthusiasts for a day of spectating some of the nation’s pro pickleball players as they compete at the $75k APP Mesa Open. Transportation, admission and snacks included.

The Homestead Playhouse Spring Production Auditions

Tuesday, Jan. 18 and Thursday, Jan. 20 4 to 7 p.m. | The Homestead

The Homestead Playhouse is thrilled to announce the spring production of Disney’s Mary Poppins Jr.! Residents, neighbors and friends (ages 8 to 18) are invited to audition for a role in this heartwarming musical. For details and the audition packet, visit DCRanch.com.

Food Truck Night: Hot Pot and Yolo’s

Thursday, Jan. 20 5 to 7 p.m. | Desert Camp

Spice up your weeknight dinner plans with menu options from Hot Pot Caribbean Cuisine and Yolo’s Authentic Mexican.

DC Ranch Day

Saturday, Jan. 22 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. | The Homestead All ages | Free RSVP opens Dec. 20

Giddy up and join the annual community-wide celebration of DC Ranch history! Residents wear their cowboy best for this Western-themed event that includes live music, crafts, games and a delicious BBQ dinner.

Ranch News | Januar y 202 2

Social Hour Friday, Jan. 28 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. | Desert Camp Ages 21+ | Free RSVP opens Dec. 20

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

Ongoing programs

Strength and Balance Mondays and Wednesdays 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The Homestead Community Center Yoga Basics Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 to 10 a.m. The Homestead Community Center Total Body Aqua Fit Wednesdays and Fridays 9 to 10 a.m. Desert Camp Community Center Pickleball Club Fridays and Sundays | 8 to 11 a.m. Desert Camp Pickleball Courts Saturday Bootcamp Saturdays | 8:15 to 9 a.m. Desert Camp Community Center Social Bridge Club Wednesdays | 12:30 to 4 p.m. Desert Camp Community Center

Meetings Ranch Association Board of Directors Monday, Jan. 10 | 6 to 7 p.m. Zoom Community Council Board of Directors Thursday, Jan. 6 and 27 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. | The Homestead

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Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

By Katherine Thatcher | Art Asset Adviser

Connecting to the arts You know that feeling of seeing a work of art or an object that speaks to you? Maybe it reminds you of a place or evokes a feeling. When you feel that, you have connected with that piece. How about collecting that piece? There are many reasons to be a collector.

acquire. It may give their home context of another era and depth of knowledge about other times. Inherited items can also evoke feelings of family or talking points on your own past and history.

Connecting

Connecting to yourself The art you surround yourself with builds the landscape in which you live, one that will witness your life and one which may speak to others too. A collection builds connection, not just to others, but through learning about yourself. As you observe your preferences and acquire art and objects, you uncover internal leanings. Why do you like what you like?

through collecting

Connecting to the present Collecting from living artists gives you connection to the creator and can also generate many interesting ongoing conversations with the artist/maker themself, as well as other collectors of their work. A collector is likely to become personal friends with an artist they patronize, and a circle of those with similar interests can grow around this.

Collecting is connecting Acquiring items for your home or corporate collection shouldn’t just be about filling space or checking a box like “ok, now that wall is full.” It is an opportunity for one to learn about objects, artists, time periods, materials, their friends, family and visitors through their reactions, and perhaps most importantly, what resonates with oneself.

Connecting to visitors Art, antiques, decorative arts and other collectibles present a talking point to those visiting your home. Conversations and even friendships have been built on interesting discussions about personal property possessions. An interested guest may ask you what your item is, what it represents, where you acquired it, or why. These conversations build connection too. Connecting to the past A collection can connect you to the past. Collectors of historical items often feel connected to the time and place of older items they

Maybe 2022 will be your year of starting a new collection. Thatcher is a DC Ranch resident and a consultant with specialty qualifications in fine arts, decorative arts, antiques and appraisals.

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NEWSWORTHY footprint and where to direct a question if a situation arises. I would highly recommend the Program to both new and ‘seasoned’ residents!”

Class II of Resident Leadership Academy graduates In 2020, DC Ranch launched the inaugural leadership development program for residents interested in learning more about the community’s governance and operations. The program’s long-term goal is to equip participants with the knowledge to serve in future community leadership roles.

In the summer of 2021, Class II was selected and began attending sessions in August. Residents from all four DC Ranch Villages were represented; half lived in DC Ranch over 10 years and half were new to the community.

The eight sessions provided a solid foundation for those who wanted to contribute as members of a committee, focus group, outreach ambassador, Neighborhood Voting Member or serve on a Board of Directors for either the Community Council

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or Ranch Association. Program organizers Terri Raimondi, Ranch Association Communications Manager, and Gabi Enriquez, Community Council Senior Event & Program Manager oversaw the sessions which included history, leadership, brand standards, financial stewardship, landscape & appearance, community standards, security, community engagement, events & programs, and a graduation celebration.

Class III of the Resident Leadership Development Program is expected to begin in the fall of 2022. If interested, watch for applications to be available in the summer. Please check DCRanch.com for the most up-to-date information. Event parking

The Bell Road Sports Complex on the northwest corner of Bell Road and 94th Street will be used for parking for both the Barrett Jackson Car Auction, January 21-30, and the Waste Management Phoenix Open, February 7-13. The City of Scottsdale plans to open the fields for athletic play sometime this spring.

Class II graduate Victoria Hayes said, “I knew that moving to DC Ranch would be wonderful—yet I had no idea how easy it would be to meet new friends and get involved in the Community. Being accepted into the Resident Leadership Academy was great. It not only introduced me to like-minded neighbors, I also met staff who take responsibility and pride in making DC Ranch such a great place to live. I now have a knowledge of how the Ranch functions, a better understanding of our geographic

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Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

Water

and hist Mc

By Leonard Marcisz McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

Mark Twain was fond of observing: “Whiskey is for drinking. Water is for fighting.” This was certainly true in Arizona. On November 27, 1928, Phoenix police were summoned to the state capitol building to break up a fistfight between George W. P. Hunt, Arizona’s governor, and Fred T. Colter, a state senator, over Colorado river water use.

The first U.S. citizens to view the McDowell Mountains up close came by following water. In 1830, mountain man Ewing Young led a fur trapping expedition north along the Verde River. His expedition probably traveled along the west bank of the river, passing through today’s community of Rio Verde. U.S. settlement near the McDowells was inhibited by Yavapai and Apache cultures. When their raiding began to disrupt gold and silver mining in the Bradshaw Mountains during the Civil War, Camp McDowell—later renamed Fort McDowell—was established near the Verde River, athwart a network of raiding trails. The military post was active from 1865 through 1890. The establishment of Camp McDowell and eventual confinement of the Yavapai and Apache on reservations rendered the Salt River Valley safe for U.S. settlement, which, naturally, followed the water.

In 1867, John Y. T. Smith, the post trader at Fort McDowell, noticed abundant grasses growing along old Hohokam canals near what is today the Sky Harbor runway. Smith established a haying operation at the site, selling the hay to the Army. A group of investors established a canal company, excavated the old Hohokam canals, and began to irrigate land along the banks of the Salt River. A small farming community named Phoenix began to develop near the canal system. By the mid-1870s, settlements spread north of the McDowells as gold was discovered by prospectors along Cave Creek, which became an indispensable water source for mining. In the 1880s a small farming community was

Ranch News | Januar y 202 2

(from top left) Brown boys in stock tank, Frasier Springs today, Dick Robbins and horse find refreshment, an early image of DC Ranch

established southwest of the McDowells by a retired military chaplain, Winfield Scott. Scott chose the site because of its proximity to the newly constructed Arizona Canal.

During the 1890s a compulsive prospector, Frank Frazier, began homesteading in the McDowells. He established the Silverleaf mining claim and the most productive spring in the range, now known as Frazier Spring.

Major ranching expansion around the McDowells occurred in the early 20th Century, driven by a booming U.S. economy but governed by access to water.

Edwin Orpheus Brown (E.O. Brown) came to Scottsdale to assist his widowed sister-in-law in running the general store and post office. He quickly became the town’s preeminent entrepreneur: owner of the general store, cotton gin, waterworks, and ice plant. He eventually became irrigation director, vice president of the Western Oil Company, and controlling stockholder of Farmer’s State Bank. Brown began to run cattle on the outskirts of Scottsdale. With acreage near the town increasingly consumed by cotton farming and orchards, Brown relocated his ranching operation to the McDowells during the period of

d the human tory of the cDowell Mountains

1916–1919. He acquired Frazier Spring and routed water to tanks across his 44,000-acre ranch. Remains of the piping can still be seen in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

The Brown family expanded the ranch over the years, acquiring land via homesteading, purchase, federal and state leases, land exchanges, and debt collection—the latter a byproduct of E. O. Brown’s control of the local bank and general store, which provided insights into the financial insolvency of some ranchers. On occasion, this resulted in bad feelings. When Brown wished to acquire Refugio Ochoa’s spring through foreclosure on his ranch, Refugio refused to pass control of the spring to Brown. Instead, Refugio sold the land to the neighboring Moore family, who renamed the ranch.

Water availability influenced much of the ranching around the McDowells. In addition to their acquisition of Frazier Spring, the Brown family sank a well near their homestead at Browns Mountain and constructed an earthen dam north of Fraesfield Mountain with the capacity to store 8 million gallons of water. The Pemberton Ranch on the eastern slopes of the McDowells was famous for its artesian well that produced “sweet water.” Not all ranchers were so fortunate. Harold Baxter homesteaded the Lost Dog area from 1924 through 1944. He eventually gave up after sinking several wells over the years but failing to draw enough water to run cattle.

With major water storage and management developments such as the Salt River Project, begun in 1903, and the Central Arizona Project, begun in 1973, water was provided to the Salt River Valley to sufficiently enable major agricultural and urban development. When development began to impinge upon the McDowells local citizens organized the McDowell Sonoran Land Trust and launched a successful campaign to create today’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

The Preserve and DC Ranch

In 1998, DMB sold more than 4,600 acres in the upper Windgate Pass area to the City of Scottsdale, which would become what is today considered the “heart of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.” This sale cut DMB’s development in half, but will forever stand as testament to the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the nation’s largest urban land preserve, encompassing one-third of the City of Scottsdale —57 square miles—and will connect with the Tonto National Forest.

Visit DCRanch.com for path and trail maps that link DC Ranch to the Preserve. Marcisz is a Legacy Steward and former president and chairman of the board of the Arizona Historical Society.

Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

MAR K E TPL AC E

It’s Scrumptious! By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

Here’s the scoop… Scrumptious celebrated their grand opening on Market Street in November with a line of customers out the door. Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., the shop features handcrafted gelato, paninis, classic Italian coffee and freshly made pastries. Owners Steve and Tiffany Driscoll have lived in the area for 20 years and own several businesses. “My husband has a next level sweet tooth. We’ve been talking about opening a gelato place for years and this seemed like a great opportunity,” says Tiffany. They plan to add another location in Scottsdale soon.

Scrumptious serves 12 delicious flavors daily and their Italian gelato master, Angelo Lollino, works behind the scenes to create new and seasonal flavors. Tiffany’s current obsession is “Chicago Pothole,” an Italian version of Rocky Road. The flavor won Lollino second place in the 2016 Gelato World Tour.

Gelato is the richer, denser and smoother relative to American ice cream. Made from a custard base of milk, cream and sugar, the difference lies in the proportions and preparation. Gelato is churned at a much slower speed which incorporates less air, contains less butterfat than ice cream and is served at a slightly warmer temperature. Consequently, gelato provides a greater flavor experience because there is less fat that coats the taste buds, flavor is more concentrated per spoonful (due to a lower quantity of air), and the taste buds are more alive since the temperature is not so cold as to dull their sensitivity.

LUXURY DEFINED 12

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With bistro lights on the patio and a little library of books for customers to enjoy, Scrumptious is the perfect pit stop for coffee and a quick bite or an after-dinner treat. Claudia D’Amico, store manager, recently moved here from Rome. Her expertise in baking Italian cakes and pastries brings a level of expertise to the shop. “It’s a fun place to be and we love helping customers sample different flavors to discover a new favorite,” says D’Amico. A larger-than-life photo of the Driscoll’s son caught hiding in the shower eating gelato is a favorite for customers taking selfies in the shop. Follow Scrumptious on Facebook or Instagram for flavor announcements and more.

Scrumptious Scottsdale 20875 N. Pima Rd., Suite 100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 480.687.3305 Scrumptiousscottsdale.com

By Lindsay Vanegas | Community Council

On an early November morning, five DC Ranch residents and their families gathered with team members at Armored Self Storage in Ahwatukee to begin a group service project with DC Ranch Gives. This program provides residents with meaningful opportunities to engage with each other and give back to the broader community.

Volunteers began the day by listening to Furnishing Dignity’s Executive Director, Tamara Silva, give an overview of the impact their efforts would have on individuals who were coming out of a transient situation. Founded in 2014, Furnishing Dignity is a locally based nonprofit organization with a mission to “transform lives through community, compassion and essential home furnishings.” Furnishing Dignity collects donated household goods to create new home spaces for individuals or families who are trying to get back on their feet.

packing household items and furniture for delivery. The items were chosen based on the family’s wish list including preferences for colors and styles. The family they were packing for that day included a mom and two young children. Everything for the family, including dishware, appliances, furniture and stuffed animals for each of the kids, was carefully and thoughtfully selected. After safely packing these items for delivery, they loaded the moving truck. Caravanning to a small apartment in Mesa, volunteers rolled up their sleeves to unpack the boxes and load in the furniture, quickly turning the house into a home. Finishing touches included tidying the kids’ room and making their beds with fresh new linens. It was truly a rewarding experience for all involved.

Group Service Project

Once the DC Ranch volunteer group was prepped and ready, they were ushered off into the organizations’ storage units. Filled to the brim with donations from across the valley, residents and team members assisted in selecting, cleaning, tagging and

Furnishing Dignity accepts donations of new and gently used household furnishings. The organization will come to you and pick up your inkind donations for free. They also except monetary donations and are always looking for volunteers. Visit furnishingdignity.org to learn more. Check the DCRanch.com calendar for other Gives group service projects planned in 2022.

Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

R A N C H S P OT L I G H T

Welcome new Ranch Association Executive Director Ranch News had the opportunity to speak with Michele Ray-Brethower about her new role as executive director for the Ranch Association. Ray-Brethower is an accomplished large-scale community manager. Her proven 20-plus years of experience includes management of master planned communities in Texas, Colorado and Arizona. Her credentials include several notable designations from the Community Associations Institute (CAI) and she is current Vice-Chair of CAI’s Large-Scale Committee. By Terri Raimondi | Ranch Association

Q | Can you share some of your accomplishments in the first 100 days as the new executive director? I have entrenched myself into the culture, values and initiatives to learn what makes this community such a special place. I look forward to collaborating with the residents to efficiently lead and manage the maintenance, landscaping, security and streets so that DC Ranch continues to be the premier community of choice. Q |What experiences or skills learned from your previous communities are you eager to bring to DC Ranch? Over the past 20+ years, I have managed communities from initial development to a community over 40 years old, from all sizes. The challenges of keeping Ranch Association assets updated and always looking top-notch is a priority, and I have successfully worked on many of those types of master plan projects. As DC Ranch continues to age, we will strive to uphold the brand standard and maintain the community as one of the most desired places to live with an exceptional quality of life. As an operations and management executive, I have lead staff of various sizes, from three to 150. I have produced strong teams to execute strategic plans with a positive impact on the bottom line. I have a servant leadership style and look forward to guiding this team and community to meet our goals.

I have been networking with industry professionals across the country on Association issues and have learned from some of the best large-scale managers and continue those relationships today. I have honed my skills focusing on building relationships, and collaboration while working alongside Board of Directors to consistently deliver quality service to the residents. Q | What are you most excited about in coming back to Arizona and to be a part of DC Ranch?

In my last couple of relocations, we realized sunny, warm and consistent weather is very important to us. I did not like the cold and snow we experienced in Colorado, or the Texas thunder, lightning, rain and tornadoes. Our hearts have always been in Arizona, and we knew we would return. In the 90’s, we watched DC Ranch being developed, and it is such an incredible opportunity to return to the desert and manage one of the best masterplanned communities in the nation.

Ranch News | Januar y 202 2

Q | Aside from your new role, what else are you looking forward to? We lived in Arizona for 26 years, so just being back and reconnecting with friends is so exciting. We were raising kids much of that time, so to be able to take advantage of everything the Valley has to offer will be a priority.

Married to husband, Phil, the couple have two grown children and recently became grandparents. In her down time, Michele enjoys reading, the outdoors, shopping, traveling and is a mixed media artist. She is also a Certified Parks and Recreational Professional through the National Park and Recreation Association and received her Public Manager certification from ASU in 2005.

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Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

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MIKE@MIKEDOMER.COM MIKEDOMER.COM

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the best to top get dollar top dollar Now Now is theis best time time to get for for home. to pick your your home. Don’tDon’t wait wait tryingtrying to pick the the topthe asmarket the market can change at moany motop as can change at any Domer has sold ment.ment. Mike Mike Domer has sold over over $100$100 mil- million worh of homes six months and can lion worh of homes in sixinmonths and can get top you dollar top dollar for yours He and get you for yours now. now. He and his team plenty of cash buyers his team havehave plenty of cash buyers readyready to on buyyour on your and move out date. to buy termsterms and move out date. Call Mike free consultation Call Mike todaytoday for afor freea consultation and market evaluation of your property. and market evaluation of your property.

8883 480.480. 861.861. 8883

I SST I N G S E X C L UESXICV LEULSIISVTEI NL G

ith years of experience ith years of experience as as a luxury broker, a luxury homehome broker, Mike Mike Domer hasrecords set records in nearly Domer has set in nearly category. His mareveryevery salessales category. His marketing budget dwarfs that of keting budget dwarfs thathisof his competitors and his re- recompetitors andlong-time his long-time lationships, associations and conlationships, associations and connections are invaluable in marketnections are invaluable in marketing luxury homes. Mike Mike Domer ing luxury homes. Domer symbolizes the the highest stan-stansymbolizes highest dards, the finest service and the dards, the finest service and the wisest representation imaginable wisest representation imaginable in real Mike Mike Domer is theis the in estate. real estate. Domer definitive choice for representation definitive choice for representation in buying or selling a luxury home. in buying or selling a luxury home. “When“When the previous agentagent was unable the previous was unable to sellto our Silverleaf home,home, we hired sell our Silverleaf we hired Mike. Mike. His marketing was outstanding His marketing was outstanding and he structured a remarkable deal deal and he structured a remarkable that got our home sold.”sold.” Jeff HJeff H that got our home

We We Need Listings Need Listings Have Cash Buyers Have Cash Buyers Let Let Us Sell Yours Us Sell Yours

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Silverleaf BA • $9,600,000 Silverleaf • 5 BR• •58BR BA••8$9,600,000 SO

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Silverleaf • 5 BR • 6 BA • $4,960,000

DC Ranch CC • 6CC BR••65.5 • Casita • $2,995,000 DC Ranch BRBA • 5.5 BA • Casita • $2,995,000

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Silverleaf • 5 BR• •56BR BA••6$5,100,000 Silverleaf BA • $5,100,000

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M I KM E@ KM ED I KM E I@ I KOEMDEORM. C EO R .MC O M M I KM ED I KOEMDEORM. C EO R .MC O M

Silverleaf • 5 BR• •56BR BA••6$4,960,000 Silverleaf BA • $4,960,000

Delania Munro

Michelle Cross

480.734.6506 480.748.7887

Jennifer Daly

480.512.2779

Tanya Boruch

Byron Bolton

Tina Wil iams

602.686.5165 404.558.0736 480.800.9631

Delania@MikeDomer.com Michelle@MikeDomer.com Jennifer@MikeDomer.com Tanya@MikeDomer.com Byron@MikeDomer.com Tina@MikeDomer.com Delania Delania Munro Munro MichelleMichelle Cross Cross JenniferJennifer Daly Daly

Tanya Boruch Byron Bolton Tanya Boruch Byron Bolton

Tina Williams Tina Williams

480.734.6506 480.734.6506 480.748.7887 480.748.7887 480.512.2779 404.558.0736 480.800.9631 602.686.5165 404.558.0736 480.800.9631 480.512.2779 602.686.5165

Byron@MikeDomer.com Delania@MikeDomer.com Michelle@MikeDomer.com Byron@MikeDomer.com Tanya@MikeDomer.com Tina@MikeDomer.com Delania@MikeDomer.com Michelle@MikeDomer.com Tanya@MikeDomer.com Tina@MikeDomer.com Jennifer@MikeDomer.com Jennifer@MikeDomer.com

Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Take the DC Ranch PUP Pledge

By Andrea Brin

Dog walking is a lot more than snapping a leash on a collar or harness and venturing out. While dog ownership brings with it a multitude of responsibilities, it also yields infinite emotional and physical benefits. Dog owners, especially seniors and the disabled, benefit immensely from the physical and social exercise received while walking their furry friend. It also helps to stimulate and socialize your dog. Sniffing provides intrinsic information about their environment and everything in it. Use this time to strengthen your canine human bond while getting out in the community.

• Be sure you have a leash that gives you full control. Retractable leashes can be dangerous for you, the dog and passersby. • Stay alert to the environment by staying off your phone or ear buds except in urgent situations. • Make sure your dog has been trained in proper etiquette. If they

Set up for success

• Select the proper gear for your dog. A harness is preferred over a collar by most veterinary professionals and there are many options to help teach proper leash walking and inhibit pulling. • Gear up with your phone so that you have emergency access during your walk.

The art of dog walking

are reactive, have a strategy when passing other dogs and people. • Try and keep your dog close to you during the walk (six feet is a safe maximum). This way you are cognizant of what is happening in front of and on either side of your dog. • Grab water for both of you, especially during the warmer months.

DC Ranch is a community that loves its residents and their pets offering an abundance of paths, trails and parks—perfect for pets and their owners to enjoy. Show your pride in being a PUP-friendly owner in DC Ranch, committed to picking up after pets to keep the community clean and inviting for all. The PUP Pledge is an educational and fun way to support responsible dog owners. Simply complete the form on DCRanch.com to receive an official PUP bandana, leash and doggie bags.

• Invest in a hands-free dog leash as a wonderful way to stay close to your dog and anticipate his actions and desires. • Interact with your dog during the walk. • Stay on lead and please pick up after your pet. Pet clean up stations are available throughout the community.

Brin is a DC Ranch resident and retired holistic wellness consultant with more than 25 years' experience working with dogs.

Ranch News | Januar y 202 2

Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival Thunderbird Artists is excited to announce ceramicist Sumati Colpitts as featured artist for the 29th Annual Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival, Jan. 14-16. The event will bring together more than 150 juried fine artists, musicians, wineries, distilleries and more! By Denise Colter | Thunderbird Artists

The whimsy and charm of the pieces keeps collectors coming back.

Sumati and husband Michael work to capture the essence of the animals they create using slab and pinch techniques. Molds or forms are never used. Subtle variations within the piece are generated by using different natural colors. Various textures are also added for accent, and to give a sense of fun and elegance. The finished pieces are air dried for 1-2 weeks, then fired in a kiln that reaches temperatures up to 1600 degrees Fahrenheit. Colored washes such as iron oxide and manganese dioxide are added to give pieces their final sheen and tones. The pieces are then fired a second time to 2300 degrees, which melts the glazes to create beautiful patinas. The finishing process includes the addition of glass eyes and wire whiskers, attaching bases and final touches of color to enhance each individual piece.

same way that one would strike a piano key. • Guitarist, Chuck Hall, prefers to play the blues and can be heard while marveling at the largest sundial in Arizona. • Carefree local, Henry Molder, can be heard almost daily on his Native American Flute, while Indian Flutist Vibhas Kendzia plays while strolling Ho Hum Drive.

Thunderbird Artists Festival also brings different musicians together, ensuring beautiful sounds can be heard wherever you are in the festival: • Featured on the stage in the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion is violinist, Teresa Joy. Her soulful and engaging style has captivated audiences since 2004. • Bob Culbertson’s Chapman Stick is a showstopper. The Chapman Stick looks like a wide version of the fretboard of an electric guitar, but with 8, 10, or 12 strings. The player hammers onto the strings with their fingertips in the

(left) 'Royal Rabbit' by Sumati Colpitts, (above) Bob Culbertson plays his Chapman Stick

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this event in downtown Carefree on Ho Hum and Easy Street. Attendees can purchase works ranging from paintings, bronzes, glass, clay, stone, metal, wood and mixed media sculptures, one-of-a-kind jewelry, limited edition photography, batiks, scratchboard and much more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is $3.00 and parking is free all weekend.

SCOTTSDALE AT WATERFRONT

SCOTTSDALE

7025 E Via Soleri Drive, #125

20707 N. Pima Rd. #135

Scottsdale | AZ 85251

Scottsdale | AZ 85255

+1 602 768-3772

+1 480 515-5900

My pas s i on is the p eop le. M y success is in other s’ h a ppin e ss. My joy is with fam ily and fr iend s and m y gr atitud e is a bu n da n t. T h anks to all that hav e m ad e this a fab ulous ye a r !

B E T H A N K F U L , S O U L F U L A N D H E A LT H Y. Bob Nathan Team

Engel & Völkers on Market Street

480-695-6031 bob.nathan@evrealestate.com

BOB NATHAN TEAM

©2021 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

Januar y 202 2 | Ranch News

DC RANCH

SILVERLEAF

CONGRATUL ATIONS TO MIKE SWEENEY & MIKE LEHMAN!

DC RANCH

SILVERLEAF

$183 MILLION SOLD IN 2021

SILVERLEAF

DC RANCH

SILVERLEAF

Over 45 years of combined experience selling in DC Ranch and Silverleaf. Contact this expert team for all of your real estate needs. Mike Sweeney Designated Broker 480.250.3036

Stephanie Thomas Sales Associate 602.923.4512

Mike Lehman Sales Associate 480.734.7271

Natalie Palmer Sales Associate 602.488.2009

Nicole Osborn Sales Assistant 913.626.0844

SilverleafRealty.com/slg 18801 North Thompson Peak Parkway, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

All property is subject to availability. © 2021 Silverleaf Realty. All rights reserved. All Silverleaf and DC Ranch lot owners are eligible to apply for membership to the private golf club; however, lot ownership is separate from Silverleaf Club or The Club at DC Ranch membership and does not provide guarantee of acceptance. Additional membership fees and restrictions apply. Prices subject to change.