Renewed sense of purpose
This year promises to be one of growth and positive change for DC Ranch. The refreshed Desert Camp Community Center serves as a vibrant hub for social gatherings and promotes healthy lifestyles for all residents. The team is excited to introduce expanded offerings, including several new fitness classes that you can learn more about on page 13.
The Ranch Association and the Community Council also recognize the importance of financial stewardship and will be adapting to budget adjustments. These changes require evaluating how to deliver services while upholding the DC Ranch standard. As we work to streamline operations, the goal remains to provide exceptional experience at a more sustainable cost.
In the coming months, the community patrol and gate access services will be reviewed in preparation for a new contract that begins July 1. Additionally, a full reserve study will be conducted to ensure that long-term planning
supports the maintenance and replacement of community assets. The triannual community-wide survey will be conducted, the website will be refreshed and the updated strategic plan, DCR 2025, will launch.
Finally, we look forward to welcoming both new and longstanding NVMs (see page 14) and encourage those interested to consider joining our leadership teams by serving on the Boards of Directors.
Together, let’s make 2025 a year of connection, growth and shared success.
Wishing you an excellent year,
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
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• Sense of Community
• Environmental Stewardship
• Family
• Healthy Lifestyles
DC Ranch Community Values Living Connected
• Diversity & Inclusiveness
• Lifelong Learning
• Artistic & Cultural Opportunities
• Relationship with Larger Community
DC Ranch seamlessly connects people to the beauty of both the created environment and the natural Sonoran Desert. Residents feel a sense of community, connecting with each other in friendship and common interest. It is a thoughtfully crafted community designed with unprecedented attention to detail. DC Ranch has a distinctive governance structure with ample resources that exist to ensure a legacy of an amenity-rich and active way of life. The highest standards and a convenient north Scottsdale location establish DC Ranch as a nationally desirable place to live with an exceptional quality of life and premium home values.
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Jenna Kohl DC Ranch Executive Director
UPDATES
Plan ahead: Board Elections
Soon it will be time to fill open positions on the Community Council and Ranch Association Boards of Directors. Board members are vital to the governance of DC Ranch and implementing the DC Ranch mission through thoughtful discussions and decision-making for the community. The Council welcomes applications to serve on its board. Applications must be submitted by Jan. 31. For more information and to apply, visit DCRanch.com.
This March, two positions will be on the ballot for Ranch Association Board of Directors selections. Owners in good standing are invited to submit their candidacy to join the Board. Newly elected directors will serve three-year terms.
Feb. 1 Candidate applications available on DCRanch.com
Mar. 1 Deadline for candidate applications
Mar. 10 Meet the Candidates Night
Mar. 13 Ballots emailed to Neighborhood Voting Members
Apr. 1 Ballots due by 5 p.m., Board of Directors Annual Meeting
Community Standards: DCR-26 Trash and Recycling
Trash and recycling containers are provided and serviced by the City of Scottsdale. Trash and recycling containers may be placed on the street the day before scheduled pickup days but must be removed to a storage area on the same day of pickup. Residents must store these containers in an area that is not visible from neighboring property on non-collection days.
Holiday décor removal reminder
DC Ranch has been aglow in beautiful holiday decorations, and now it’s time to pack them away. Seasonal decorations and lights should be removed by Jan. 15, as outlined in Community Standard DCR-19. Should a resident encounter extenuating circumstances that cause delays, please contact the Community Standards team at 480.513.1500. For holidays and celebrations outside the winter holiday season, decorations are permitted during the week prior to and one week following the celebration.
Community Patrol & Gate Access Corner
The Ranch Association Board has extended the contract with Anderson Security to June 30 for ample time to review the proposals for Community Patrol and Gate Access services. As part of this extension, Roy Stanifer has joined the team as account manager for Anderson Security. Roy brings over 25 years of experience in security, law enforcement and public safety communications, with a leadership style centered on open communication and proactive management. His hands-on approach will further strengthen Community Patrol and Gate Access (CPGA)
operations, providing effective support for both residents and staff. Residents may see Roy in and around the community as he familiarizes himself with DC Ranch.
To make the most informed decision for the future, the Request for Proposal (RFP) timeline to all participating companies has been extended. This additional time, supported by Anderson Security’s contract extension, allows the team to carefully evaluate feedback from residents and make a well-considered, cost-effective choice for the community’s long-term needs.
Resident input matters
Residents are encouraged to use the “Let Us Know” form on DCRanch.com as a tool to share important feedback. The information submitted goes directly to the specific department to review and address. Residents’ perspectives help the team make decisions that serve the best interests of the community.
Ranch Association election timeline:
MONTHLY PLANNER
Pickleball Social
Friday, Jan. 3 | 8 to 11 a.m.
Desert Camp Courts
Ages 14+ | RSVP
Kick off the new year with a morning of pickleball. Reconnect with friends and meet new players while enjoying refreshments and open play on the new courts.
Family Yoga
Saturday Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25
9 to 10 a.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
All ages | $23
Bring the family together for a month of interactive yoga classes (4 total) designed to accommodate all ages and skill levels. Through playful poses, breath work and partner exercises, residents will strengthen their bodies, enhance flexibility and promote mindfulness while fostering connection. Please bring a yoga mat, towel and water bottle.
Sound Meditation Class
Tuesday, Jan. 7 | 4 to 5 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Ages 14+ | $15
Embark on a guided exploration of sound frequencies designed to promote relaxation, self-awareness and healing. Residents will be immersed in a transformative auditory experience featuring crystal singing bowls, gongs, chimes and tuning forks.
Tasting Table: Wines of Italy
Wednesday, Jan. 8
6 to 7:30 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Ages 21+ | $18
Taste a variety of fine Italian wines, from bold reds to crisp whites, while learning about the history, regions and winemaking techniques that make Italy a world-renowned destination for wine lovers. Beverages and light bites included.
Community Walk: Desert Camp Village
Meet at Desert Camp Community Center
Thursday, Jan. 9 | 2 to 3:30 p.m.
All ages | RSVP
Learn how to use the DC Ranch Path and Trail System. Residents will be led on a leisurely walk (about 3 miles) along a designated route to become comfortable with using the paths and trails on their own. Please wear appropriate shoes and bring a water bottle.
DC Ranch Day
Saturday, Jan. 11 | 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
All ages | RSVP
Join the annual community-wide celebration of DC Ranch history! Residents are invited to wear their cowboy best for this Western-themed event that includes live music, special guests, crafts, games and a delicious BBQ dinner.
Women's Club: 80s Yoga
Friday, Jan. 17 | 5 to 6 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | $12
Break out the leotard for an 80s inspired practice. Flow through a series of yoga poses, movements and breathwork with a selection of 80s hits. This class is for all levels; no previous experience needed. Please dress comfortably and bring a yoga mat.
Playhouse Auditions
Tuesday, Jan. 21 and Thursday, Jan. 23 | 4 to 7 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center Ages 8 to 18
The Homestead Playhouse is thrilled to announce auditions for the spring production of The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition. Residents, neighbors and friends are invited to audition for a role in this delightful musical. The classic tale follows Dorothy, who is swept away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz, embarking on a journey to find her way home with the help of her newfound friends: the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion. Visit DCRanch.com to learn more and register for an audition time.
Gives: Blood Drive
Saturday, Jan. 25 | 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Homestead Community Center Ages 16+
January is National Blood Donor Month. The American Red Cross has an ongoing critical need for blood donations essential for surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic illnesses and traumatic injuries. Make a lifesaving appointment conveniently located at The Homestead.
For the most up-to-date information and a full listing of ongoing programs, meetings, events and fitness classes, visit DCRanch.com/calendar.
Please note: To register for all activities, residents must create a CivicRec account. Details at DCRanch.com/CivicRec.
Swing Flex: Stretching for Golfers
Tuesday, Jan. 28 | 4 to 5 p.m. Desert Camp Community Center Ages 14+ | $15
Elevate your golf game with a class designed to enhance flexibility, improve swing mechanics and boost overall performance on the course. This specialized session focuses on deep, targeted stretches that address the unique needs of golfers.
Meet the Artists
Thursday, Jan. 30 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Desert Camp Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP
Join neighbors for an inspiring evening with several of the talented artists whose work now graces the newly renovated Desert Camp Community Center. Each artist offers a distinctive interpretation of desert landscapes, the southwest and ranching culture, capturing the spirit of DC Ranch. Residents will learn about their creative processes and the meaning behind the artwork. Light bites and beverages provided. Limited seating.
TGIF: Swiftie Party
Friday, Jan. 31 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The Homestead Community Center Ages 6 to 12 | $34
“Shake It Off” during an unforgettable evening of Taylor Swift themed fun. Young Swifties will channel their inner pop star with singalongs, dancing, games, bracelet making, nail painting and hair braiding. Pizza, treats and soft drinks included.
By Kat Thatcher | Resident contributor
An impressive art collection on a cruise ship? Celebrity’s Edge series Ascent incorporates 4,500 artworks by 700 artists from 40 different countries. Celebrity assembled a “dream team of icons, including American designer Nate Berkus, Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku and British designer Tom Wright, best-known for the landmark Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai” to create a cutting-edge ship, then added fashion-forward art. Throughout guest hallways, hundreds of captivating images by German photographer Marcus Shaefer grace walls.
At the ship’s heart, the Grand Plaza bar combines Italian piazza concept with glamor conveyed by the large chandelier. Decorative leather, metal and fabric wall installation screens divide spaces, incorporating 14,000 “scales.” A silver sculpture of a spilling water pitcher created from cutlery by artist Ann Carrington hints at the feast awaiting guests. The pool deck transforms from tranquil at sunrise to vibrant night lights. Shiny and mirthful, Ocho, the octopus, stands nearly 2 stories
and looks equally ready for dance or yoga. Constructed in marine grade stainless steel, the work is by Australian artist Todd Stuart. Tom Wright crafted surrounding features, including Prism, a spiky lightwork with ever-changing rainbow hues, and elevated martini glass shaped hot tubs. Walkways have Wright’s light paneling opposite his “shark teeth” cabanas. Wright and Kelly Hoppens Magic Carpet lounge bar hangs off the ship. The world’s first cantilevered
deck-at-sea, the size of a tennis court, it moves between decks 2 to 16.
Refined, relaxing spaces define both fore and aft. Wright’s Solarium pool lounge is anchored by a lovely blue wall installation Sea Glass. Aft above, is Berkus’s Moroccan inspired Sunset bar and Wright and Kelly’s Rooftop Garden with panels intricately carved with forest creatures. Nearby is Bear
All aboard: Celebrity Ascent Art Collection
and Ballerina by Ben Foster, a New Zealand artist that designs sculptures by computer.
Below aft, visitors are transported through Aurora, an immersive installation by Fredrikson Stallard. Aurora’s silvery space is evocative of borealis and arctic, incorporating mirrors, mountainous shapes, 1600 lights, meditative tones, and scent. Visitors emerge to the greenery of 3-story bar, lounge, restaurant and entertainment space Eden.
Eden’s namesake sculpture incorporates green multihued mummified moss that must be spritzed daily.
Fluted walnut “trees” and a canopy of leaves conceived by Spaniard Patricia Urquiola and Wilson Butler architects set a jungle tone. Braided neon swing seats are tucked away near windows, and wildlife artist whimsical Patricia Mitchel’s animal themed wall designs grace the space. Follow Kat on Instagram @theartfultourist.
Four new faces at City Hall
Scottsdale’s new mayor and three new city council members will be sworn in on January 14. Lisa Borowsky will be the 13th mayor of Scottsdale, replacing David Ortega. Borowsky is an Arizona native and a lawyer. She served one term on the city council from 2008 to 2012.
The new city council members include Jan Dubauskas (the first DC Ranch resident to serve on city council), Adam Kwasman and Maryann McAllen. They replace Betty Janik, Tammy Caputi and Tom Durham.
Jan Dubauskas was the only candidate to win her seat in the July primary election. She has lived in Arizona since 1998 and has a law degree from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at ASU.
Adam Kwasman was born and raised in Arizona and has lived in Scottsdale for the last eight years. He is an attorney and served two years in the Arizona House of Representatives.
Maryann McAllen has lived in Scottsdale for 59 years. She is manager at Hospice of the Valley, former Chair of Scottsdale Parks and Recreation Commission and spent 10 years as a city employee.
WestWorld’s impact on tourism
WestWorld, the city of Scottsdale’s largest indoor/outdoor events venue, is playing an increasingly pivotal role in driving tourism and economic growth in the region.
An economic impact study commissioned by the city and conducted by the Arizona State University Seidman Research Institute demonstrates WestWorld’s ability to attract high-spending visitors.
According to the study, the regional effect of WestWorld’s 2023/2024 operations included:
• $163.6 million contribution to the state’s GDP
• $85.6 million in labor income
• 1,813 jobs supported statewide
• $4.8 million in Transaction Privilege and Transient Tax collections
The assessment excluded Scottsdale residents and centered on spending from outside visitors who bring fresh dollars into the local economy.
Lisa Borowsky Jan Dubauskas
Maryann McAllen
Adam Kwasman
Into the wild… and possibly your backyard
Whether you’re on a nearby trail or trekking through the wilderness, keep an eye out for Arizona’s most interesting creatures.
By Arizona State Parks
Coyote Native to the West and one of the more common desert dwellers, the coyote can be seen throughout the state, even in metro areas. Finding them in their natural habitat can be a bit trickier due to their nocturnal habits, but state parks such as Catalina, Lost Dutchman, Red Rock and River Island offer good odds.
Javalina Although it looks similar to a wild boar, the bristly-coated javelina is a collared peccary. They prefer the desert areas of the state, although they range as far north as Flagstaff and the Mogollon Rim. They have poor eyesight and may charge if they feel threatened, so don’t approach them, especially if you’re with a dog.
Deer, elk, pronghorn antelope
Mule deer range through the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. Their slightly smaller relative, Coues whitetails— unique to Arizona, New Mexico and northern Mexico—live in Arizona’s southeastern mountains and the woodlands of the Mogollon Rim and White Mountains. Take a trip to the scenic lakes region near Payson or Flagstaff and you might see their larger relatives, elk, grazing side-by-side with pronghorns.
mountain lions and bobcats, and both can be found throughout the state, although they generally avoid humans. If you encounter either of these creatures up close, do not run; back away slowly, wave your arms and make a lot of noise.
Tips for protecting your property
• Don’t feed wildlife. It can lead to safety issues and property damage. It can also cause animals to associate humans with food, which can make them more likely to become a nuisance.
• Make loud noises to discourage wildlife.
wild…
Ringtail cat They’re nocturnal, so you’ll need to get lucky to see Arizona’s official state mammal, a relative of the raccoon and coatimundi. Saguaro National Park and riparian canyons are the best bets.
96 young during the 2024 breeding season, according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s (AZFGD) annual survey.
From busy golf courses to remote forests, the diversity of the active eagle breeding sites across Arizona have grown to 104 documented areas.
“Arizona’s bald eagle population continues to be strong,” said Kenneth Jacobson, AZGFD bald eagle management coordinator. “The fact that we continue to see an increase in breeding areas and hatchlings speaks to the resiliency of these magnificent animals and the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to help conserve and protect Arizona’s bald eagles.”
“We evaluate each breeding area, its location, the breeding adults and their tolerance to human activities,” said Jacobson. “Then we form the management plan for that area and for the needs of that pair.”
For well-established active breeding sites near busy recreational areas, yearly closures and restrictions are enacted when necessary to protect the breeding attempts, typically beginning in early December and running through the end of the breeding season.
Birds Arizona’s list of some 550 bird species is the highest of any state without an ocean coastline. Southeastern Arizona features a dazzling array of birds, from brown-crested flycatchers to curve-billed thrashers, iconic greater roadrunner and elegant trogons. In northern Arizona, birding
• Keep pets on a leash when they're outside, and supervise them closely, especially at dusk and dawn. Feed pets indoors or remove any leftovers right away.
• Trim shrubs and other low-lying vegetation to remove hiding places for wildlife.
• Put your garbage can out on the morning of collection and secure it so animals can't tip it over.
• Keep the perimeter of your house well-lit at night, especially along walkways.
sites include Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood, the Sedona Wetlands Preserve and Kachina Wetlands south of Flagstaff. At Grand Canyon National Park, you can spy osprey, peregrine falcons and rare birds such as the California condor. Near Phoenix, head to the Tres Rios Wetlands— notable birds include the black-necked stilt, double-crested cormorant and American white pelican—or the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, with more than 200 species.
Desert reptiles
The Gila (HEE-la) monster is a venomous lizard that releases poison by biting its prey.
The Western diamondback rattlesnake—the largest in Arizona— stretches up to six feet and its desert-hued scales help it blend into the environment. It’s not aggressive, but if it feels attacked, it will bite and its poison is lethal. If you see one, typically March through October, do not approach.
*DC Ranch residents may contact Community Patrol for snake removal on their property.
Healthy eating options at Clean Eatz
By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council
Clean Eatz brings an exciting dining alternative to the area—and it might just be the key to achieving your new year health goals! Open since March of 2024, the fast-serve, healthy food restaurant also provides fresh and frozen meal prep options. Their philosophy is eating right is a lifestyle, not a diet.
Healthy eating can be challenging for everyone, from athletes to busy professionals and seniors who can’t (or don’t want to) cook. Clean Eatz can help by providing ready-made meals that are under 500 calories and provide balanced macros. Meals are prepared without butter, seed oils, additives or preservatives and can accommodate most dietary restrictions. Since meals come already cooked, customers simply reheat the food at their convenience.
Located at the intersection of Thompson Peak Pkwy. and Bell Rd. (next to Sophia’s Kitchen) the restaurant features an entire wall of Grab-N-Go freezers with over 80 different frozen meal options. The menu changes weekly and is available on the website; an email is sent every Thursday with all of the options for ordering. With no subscription needed, customers can order on the weeks that work for them. Orders must be placed by Sunday at 9 p.m. and meals are ready to pick up as early as the next day. With over 1,200 rotating recipes, customers will never get bored with meal options. Prices range from $6.85 to $10.99 per meal.
Clean Eatz is also a convenient spot for a quick bite inside or on the patio. The daily menu features wraps, build-your-own bowls, specialty burgers, smoothies, protein iced-coffees, among many other delicious options including their famous gluten-free chicken nuggets.
Owners Andrew and Ashley Kish are Scottsdale residents who have a passion for fitness and eating right. They are excited to bring healthy, convenient and affordable food to the community.
Whatever stage of life or health you’re in, Clean Eatz can help take the guesswork out of eating right.
Clean Eatz
17050 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy. Scottsdale, AZ 85255 Cleaneatz.com 480.245.4413
By Torrie Walker Jr. | Community Council
Kick off the month of January by trying a variety of new fitness classes at Desert Camp Community Center. The new fitness class offerings are based on resident feedback and current fitness trends. Each class aims to provide a balanced approach to wellness, catering to various fitness levels and preferences. To ensure a comfortable class environment and test capacity of the new studio, indoor classes that are sold out will not have drop-in spots available. Visit DCRanch.com/calendar for more information on all fitness classes and availability.
New space, new fitness goals!
Zen Yoga Replaces
All Levels Yoga
Monday/ Wednesday/Friday
7:30 to 8:30 a.m.
Learn the advanced principles of yoga poses and alignment, seamlessly integrated with breath work. Residents acquire a deeper understanding of yoga mechanics through detailed instructions and demonstrations. Please bring a yoga mat, towel and water bottle.
Crosskick Circuit
Monday/Wednesday 6 to 7 p.m.
Experience a dynamic, full-body workout inspired by kick boxing for all fitness levels. This class blends strength training, cardio circuits, core conditioning, and functional movements into an engaging and varied routine that will push your limits while keeping the fun factor high.
Full Body Pilates
Monday/Wednesday | 9 to 10 a.m.
Pilates is a fantastic way to enhance core strength, improve flexibility and build overall muscle tone, all while offering a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints. Tailor the exercises to your own pace and fitness level for a class that will leave you feeling strong.
Focus Fit Training
Tuesday/Thursday | 6 to 7 p.m.
Join a small group of up to six residents for personalized training sessions in the fitness studio and center. An expert trainer will craft each session to align with your unique fitness needs, offering the motivation and guidance to achieve your best results. If space permits, drop in $40. New fitness equipment
The updated fitness center now features state-of-the-art cardio equipment from industry leaders Precor and Peloton.
The Precor equipment lineup includes five treadmills, four ellipticals, three recumbent bikes and a stairmill.
The Peloton equipment includes a bike and rower. Residents will have the option to login with their personal Peloton account or create a commercial Peloton account (free for three years) to use at the fitness center.
Fitness studio
Expanded fitness center
2025 Neighborhood Voting Members
Please join the Ranch Association in welcoming volunteer liaisons who will be the voice for residents and neighborhoods throughout DC Ranch. These important volunteer positions work directly with the Ranch Association Board of Directors to maintain communication between residents and the Ranch Association. Many NVMs also act as a liaison for the New Resident Welcome program. NVM orientation on Jan. 22 at The Homestead Community Center will be their first official event. (New NVMs are highlighted below. Names accurate at time of printing, official election outcomes may differ.)
Desert Parks Village
• The Villas at Desert Parks Village
- Sue Hammontree
• Desert Haciendas - Kathy Wahl
• The Villas - Joyce Kressler
• Terrace Homes West - Chris Mullen
• Terrace Homes East - Aileen Alix
• Park and Manor North - Kyle Levy
• Park and Manor South - Angie Rusch
• The Estates East - Vacant
• The Estates West - Vacant
• Courtyards at Desert Parks - Sandra Lynn
Desert Camp Village
• Market Street Villas - Pam Church
• Courtyards at Market Street - Jean Nemer
• Village at Market Street #1 - Gail Walsh
• Village at Market Street #2 - Sabrina Castro
• Desert Camp Villas - Ron Stacy
• Pioneer - Jon Dubauskas
• Montelena - John Jeffries
• Camelot 93rd Place - Vacant
• Camelot 94th Way - Lisa Cox
• Camelot 96th Way - John “Jack” Daugherty
• Rosewood - Kris James
• The Haciendas - Vacant
Country Club Village
• Country Club Longhorn - Richard Zangara
• Columbia Community - James Dixon
• Monterey - Michelle Cross
• Happy Hollow - Mark Stern
• Cross Canyon - Sharon Devine
• Tapadero - Arthur Landau
• Iron Springs - Jim Sullivan
• Craggy Spur - Grant Cook
Silverleaf Village
• Rob’s Camp - Angelina Shukhat
• Horseshoe Canyon 5.1-5.7 - Vacant
• Horseshoe Canyon 102nd St. - Susan Greenberg
• Upper Canyon/Saguaro Canyon/Wingspan
- Vacant
• Upper Canyon/Whistling Wind - Bud Kern
• Upper Canyon/Wingspan - Vacant
• The Parks Acacia Court - Jodi Kaye
• The Parks Veranda Place - Pauline Kelley
• The Parks Crescent Park - Carol Ann “C.A.” Pollack
• Canyon Villas - Kat Thatcher
• Sterling Villas - Ron Belmont
• Arcadia North - Blake Miraglia
• Arcadia South - Special election results not available
• ICON - Vacant Retiring NVMs
Special thanks to the following NVMs who served their neighborhood in 2024:
• Grant Venable - The Estates East
• Mary Crow - The Estates West
• Lisa Olsen - Courtyards at Market Street
• Wendy Myers - Camelot 93rd Place
• Daniel Galindo - The Haciendas
• Tonja Howard - Happy Hollow
• Nancy Harris Robertson - Horseshoe Canyon
• Douglas Whitaker - Windgate/Rob’s Camp
• Donna Doglione - Upper Canyon/Saguaro Canyon/ Wingspan
• Victoria Hayes - ICON at Silverleaf
• Bing Hu - ICON at Silverleaf
(top from left) Kathy Wahl, Aileen Alix, Sandra Lynn, Jean Nemer (bottom from left) Sabrina Castro, Mark Stern, Angelina Shukhat
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DESERT CAMP GRAND REOPENING
By Denise Colter | Thunderbird Artists
The Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival is Jan. 17-19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and will feature 120 artists from 19 states! Thunderbird Artists prides itself on presenting a handpicked selection of exceptional artwork for its annual events, showcasing a wide range of mediums and styles to cater to every collector's taste. Their unwavering standards and jury process ensures only the finest artists are represented, ensuring patrons can trust in the craftsmanship and authenticity of each piece. The vibrant atmosphere offers a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts to meet and engage with artists directly, gaining insight into their inspirations and adding an extra layer of connection and meaning to each acquired piece.
Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival
This year’s featured artist is painter Charles Thomas (artwork pictured throughout) who has been a professional fine artist since 1998, garnering more than 15 prestigious awards. He has been widely published and has also been exhibited by the Society of Illustrators
Annual of American Illustration. He has also been recognized by the Oil Painters of America and the American Impressionist Society, where he was a finalist in their national exhibitions.
While on Easy Street…
Explore the unique flavors of some Arizona's finest wineries, discover new favorites among an expert selection of wines from the U.S. and abroad, enjoy handcrafted spirits that delight the senses and sample a variety of craft beers, each one created and distributed with less than 15,000 barrels brewed per year.
Visitors are invited to enjoy live music, food vendors, area restaurants and engaging activities that create a one-of-a-kind experience on a beautiful winter day. Admission is $5 for ages 18+ (cash only); $15 for 8 wine-tasting tickets and souvenir glass (cash preferred). Parking is free.
Visit Thunderbirdartists.com for more information.
Dear DC Ranch community: An
Iam honored to introduce myself as the new principal of Copper Ridge School. I arrived at Copper Ridge as a seasoned educator and leader with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Educational Supervision and Leadership, both from Arizona State University. I have worked in schools across the valley serving in roles as an Elementary Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal and Principal. Most recently, I served 5 years as Principal at BASIS Scottsdale Primary East.
At Copper Ridge this year we are focusing on three main goals: increasing our state test scores, growing enrollment and character development. We are striving to elevate our school’s academic excellence and rigor by having high expectations for ourselves as well
as our students, and focusing on ensuring that all of our students have the tools to progress and succeed. The team at Copper Ridge spent a lot of time at the beginning of the school year creating a shared vision and working together towards elevating excellence in all areas. These school goals are aligned with SUSD’s strategic plan.
As we transition into the second half of the school year, we reflect on all the enriching activities our students have recently taken part in. In November, 7th-grade students embarked on their annual trip to Catalina Island, a cherished tradition at Copper Ridge. Fall Festival, an event organized annually by our PTO, was also celebrated with families. And we have many other exciting and fun events coming up in the New Year as well!
The enrollment period for the 2025-2026 school year is open and we remain focused on increasing student enrollment for this exceptional neighborhood school. We warmly invite families interested in discovering more about Copper Ridge School to tour the beautiful campus. Please visit the website at copperridge.susd.org to sign up for a tour and get more information. For those with incoming Kindergarten students, please join us for the Kinder Round Up event on January 22 at 5 p.m. I look forward to building new partnerships within the community.
Kindly, Brittany Walker Copper Ridge School, Principal
6
4
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