DC Ranch News - June/July 2023

Summer fun

Jenna Kohl Community Council Executive Director

Spring quickly handed over the reins to summer, with the sun pushing its way through the clouds to highlight saguaro blooms and yellow blossoms of the creosote bush that populate the landscape. The abundant spring blossoms have retreated into hibernation as the weather heated up, escaping the persistent sun. So too will many of us go into our own version of hibernation from the heat. Do you hunker down in the sizzling summer months, or do you jet off to cooler climes? Fortunately, we do not have to go far to beat the heat, as the saying goes. Perhaps you head north to the calming streams in Payson or south to the top of Mt. Lemmon. Need ideas for a quick summer getaway? Check out the feature story on pages 10-11.

If you like to stay local, we welcome you to take a dip in the Desert Camp Community Center pool. This beautiful amenity is open to all DC Ranch residents and features lap swimming and a separate graduated entry tot pool, plus other features

such as BBQs, basketball court, playground, places to play cards and gather with friends and family. Even your pup can get it on the action by stopping by the front desk for a treat.

Your DC Ranch Community Council team offers fun programming at the pool so please stop by and cool off this summer. It might be your last glimpse of the center in its original configuration before construction begins later this year. For the latest on the site improvement project, visit DCRanch.com.

Something else to look into: the DC Ranch Volunteer of the Year recipients who have selflessly given their time to make our community a better place. They are an impressive bunch. Perhaps it’s a neighbor or friend. Curious? Find out who was recognized on page 14.

Yours in service,

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.

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• 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.

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RANCH UPDATES

The monsoon season from June to September can be an exciting time of year for native and transplanted Arizonans alike. The incredible lightning shows and much-needed summer humidity brings a resurgence of life during the hottest months of the year. Monsoon weather also brings flash flooding, hail and dust storms that can become a hazard.

Personal safety is vitally important if caught in a storm while on a walk or using a trail. Remember flash floods can happen quickly; stay out of wash areas. Keep your distance from tall structures like cell towers and other landscaping that may be hit by lightning or fall in high winds.

Monsoon preparedness

Additionally, the Arizona Department of Transportation recommends that if caught in a monsoon while on the road, drivers of all vehicle types should wait out storms by pulling over as far to the right as possible, turn off vehicle lights and remove foot from the brake pedal. Drivers should treat intersections with traffic light outages as a four-way stop and never enter flooded areas.

For more information on monsoon safety and to sign-up for emergency alerts from Maricopa County, visit ready.maricopa.gov.

When planning a vacation, or leaving town for any period, securing your property is paramount to enjoying time away. The Scottsdale Police Department offers a Vacation Watch Service which allows residents to request a police officer drive by their home while away. Additionally, DC Ranch residents may complete a Vacation Notification form on DCRanch.com to alert Community Patrol of an absence. This notification will assist with accommodating deliveries or vendors that require access to your property, and to check for any suspicious activity around the home.

Consider these additional tips provided by the Scottsdale Police Department:

• Set inside lights on timers and outside lights on dusk to dawn sensors.

• Arm the security system when you’re away. Alert your private alarm company and any personal security of travel.

• Never leave a key outside under a rock or on the porch where someone could find it.

• Ask family or a trusted neighbor to remove all papers, flyers, etc. from the house to avoid the house appearing unoccupied, and hold/forward the mail.

• Hold newspaper deliveries if gone for extended periods of time.

• Check that all access points to your home are closed and secure.

• Refrain from posting travel updates on social media or public forums.

Travel with peace of mind

• Ensure your pool is operational and properly cleaned in your absence to avoid algae growth and control mosquitoes.

• Check your irrigation system and fix any leaks before you leave.

• Secure all valuables, including firearms and important paperwork in a personal safe, safety deposit box, or fire-proof box.

In celebration of Scottsdale Earth Week, the Ranch Association’s Adopt-A-Road Landscape Team performed a trash and litter clean-up along Thompson Peak Parkway from Pima Road to Legacy Boulevard and Legacy Boulevard East to The Homestead Community Center. Special thanks to the team for filling over 22 bags with debris.

Rental of Property

When considering renting out your DC Ranch property, please remember: All rental property listings and advertisements must reflect a minimum residency of six months. Short-term rentals are not allowed. Owners must provide the Ranch Association with the tenant lease for compliance and to provide tenant access to community amenities. DC Ranch team members routinely monitor short-term rental websites to ensure compliance and track for enforcement with safety of the community in mind. If you have any questions or would like to report a short-term rental that violates the DC Ranch Standards of Conduct, please contact The Ranch Offices on Market Street at 480.513.1500.

Committed to a sustainable future

MONTHLY PLANNER

Ongoing programs

All Levels Yoga

Mondays and Wednesdays | 9 to 10 a.m.

The Homestead Community Center

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

Pickleball Drop-in

Sundays and Fridays | 6 to 9 a.m.

Wednesdays | 7 to 9 p.m.

Desert Camp Pickleball Courts

Gives: School Supply Drive

June 1 – July 31

Drop off at Desert Camp or The Homestead

DC Ranch Gives is collecting school supplies to support Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale. A donation of school supplies will have a profound impact on students and their learning experience. Visit DCRanch.com for a list of most needed items.

Wet n’ Wild Wednesdays

Wednesday, June 7 - July 26 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Desert Camp Pool | All ages | Free Splash into fun every Wednesday in June and July at the community pool! Enjoy family friendly tunes and games. Light snacks or frozen treats and select pool toys provided. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No RSVP required.

Comedy Night

Friday, June 9 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Ages 21+ | $23

The Homestead

Enjoy some laughs with neighbors and funnyman Bob Zany. Described as one of the most sarcastic comedians, Zany has made appearances on television, the movie screen, and radio shows during his 35+ year career. Light bites, beer and wine provided. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Summer Saturdays

Saturday: June 10 and July 15 10 to 11 a.m. | Desert Camp

All ages | Free

Celebrate summer with fun free activities! Join neighbors under the mist on the pool patio for a craft and snack.

Events are subject to change. Check DCRanch.com/calendar for the most up-to-date listing information.

Please note: To sign up for all activities, you must create a CivicRec account. Details at DCRanch.com/CivicRec.

Dive-in Movies

Friday: June 16 and July 21

8 to 10 p.m. | Desert Camp Pool

All ages | RSVP

Chill out poolside with a family movie on the big screen! Bring a towel, chair or a favorite pool float. Light snacks provided. Residents are welcome to bring additional meals or snacks to enjoy during the evening.

June movie: Secret Life of Pets 2, rated PG

July movie: The Sandlot , rated PG Free RSVP encouraged to ensure ample seating space and safety.

Bunco Night

Saturday, July 8 | 6 to 8 p.m.

The Homestead | Ages 21+ | $23

Let the good times roll! Never played Bunco before? Don’t worry. All you need to know is how to roll dice and count. Doors open at 6 p.m. followed by a quick lesson to get the fun started promptly at 6:30 p.m. Light bites, beer and wine provided.

Self-Massage and Stretching Class

Tuesday, July 11 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Desert Camp | Ages 16+ | $12

Take some time for self-care with practical solutions to reduce common aches and pains. Learn specific stretching methods and targeted massage techniques to eliminate headaches, wrist and arm pain, neck and shoulder pain, and backaches.

Mocktail Mixology

Sunday, July 23 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Homestead | Ages 18+ | $34

Join a local chef and mixologist for an exciting way to expand your entertaining repertoire with drinks that are alcohol free. Learn how to make three delicious, summerinspired mocktails and a seasonal snack during this hands-on class. Space is limited.

For my DC Ranch Spotlight Speaker Series presentation at The Homestead in February, I explored factors that affect appraisal of fine and decorative arts and antiques. Size matters, it's true! However, many hold the common misconcep tion of assuming that value, partic ularly of Fine Arts, is mainly to do with size.

Two major arenas are considered when evaluating an object: inherent and endowed characteristics. Inherent characteristics include the maker/artist, materials, crafts manship and time period. Endowed characteristics include provenance history, publications, exhibitions and market response.

When assigning value, here are factors taken into consideration, with an example to consider:

Maker Were/are they famous or unknown? Claude Monet vs. Blanche Monet

Materials Are they finer or more basic materials? Sterling vs. Silver Plate

Subject matter Is the subject matter commonly desirable or

Age Does this type of item appreciate or depreciate with age? Is it actually the age it looks?

R evivals vs. reproductions

Size How big is the item, and is

Desireability How coveted is the item now? Baseball cards: shrinking collectors pool vs. Mid Century Modern: enjoying a revival

Collector’s item Similar to desirability, is this object still in vogue, or subsiding? Beanie Babies

Does the item stand alone

Has the item become a symbol in itself? Marlboro

Placement within the artist’s Where is this item in the artist’s body of work? Jackson Pollock only made his drip paintings during 6 years of his life. His other works are

An ethical appraiser charges by hour, not based on value of goods, and appraisals often cost a fraction of the works themselves. It’s a good idea to see what you have and insure it accordingly.

New dog park near DC Ranch

The city of Scottsdale is moving forward with the design and construction of an off-leash dog park at the southwest corner of Hayden and Thompson Peak. Approved by voters in the 2019 Bond election, the dog park will have three fenced areas encompassing 3.5 acres, shade structures along the edges, access to a nearby restroom and its own parking lot. New surfaces are being considered that would allow for less maintenance downtime. Construction is estimated to start around the first of the year.

25th Anniversary penny press brings old fashioned fun

Residents of all ages are welcome to stop by Desert Camp Community Center to press their own 25th anniversary memento. Just bring a penny and choose from four DC Ranch exclusive designs!

DC Ranch residents report high satisfaction in community survey

Residents enjoy a high quality of life and consider DC Ranch an excellent place to live according to responses in the 2022 Resident Survey.

One section of the survey provides insight into how residents feel about Community Events and Programs. The programs with the highest reported satisfaction among residents were (percent rating “high”):

• sports and games: 80%

• fitness/wellness classes: 79%

• community-wide events: 77%

Satisfaction was also strong with the lifelong learning opportunities and adult programs/clubs available to residents (75% and 74% respectively). When asked about specific components of programming, residents responded (percent rating “high”):

• value of programs and events: 80%

• variety of programs and events: 78%

• cost of programs and events: 76%

Fire warning signage

Brush fire danger increases as temps rise and humidity falls—especially in the northern part of Scottsdale where there is the McDowell Sonoran Preserve and plenty of Natural Area Open Spaces (NAOS). Signs on Pima Road and around the Preserve inform residents of the current fire risk.

Moderate All fine, dead fuels ignite readily; fires start easily from any cause. Extreme Fires start quickly, spread furiously, and burn intensely.

Call 9-1-1 if you notice a brush fire.

BELMONT VILLAGE IS OUTSMARTING MEMORY LOSS

Available only at Belmont Village, Circle of Friends® was pioneered to curb the effects of cognitive decline through a unique program that builds brain fitness. Developed by a nationally recognized gerontologist, Circle of Friends® is rooted in evidence-based research in collaboration with the nation’s top universities. And it works. Residents enjoy a rich, therapeutic program of physical and mental activities designed to maintain brain function and build self-esteem.

Flagstaff Hot Spots to Cool in Arizona

Smack dab in the middle of the world’s largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff is at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The resulting temperate weather allows for hiking, mountain biking and outdoor concerts as well as fishing, camping, horseback riding and paddle boarding available on the gentle waters of nearby Lake Mary. Grand Canyon National Park, Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, Wupatki National Monument and Meteor Crater are all within easy driving distance. Beyond this, outdoor adventurers can ride up Snowbowl via a scenic chairlift to Arizona’s highest point on the San Francisco Peaks. Try one of the sky-high obstacle courses with zip lines, suspension bridges and rope swings at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course.

Those looking to wine and dine in the pines are also in luck as Flagstaff has a burgeoning culinary scene, especially in its downtown area. Among the most notable spots are Atria, which earned a 2022 James Beard Award nomination; Teatro, the area’s newest exquisite fine dining offering; Tinderbox Kitchen, a 2022 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner; SHIFT, which has some of the best shared plate offerings in Arizona; Pizzicletta, simple pizza that will rock your world; and Oeno, a chic wine lounge perfect for date night. Breweries also abound, including several within walking distance of each other in Mother Road, Lumberyard, Historic Brewing Barrel + Bottle House, Wanderlust, Beaver Street and Dark Sky.

As for accommodations, there are two new kids on the block that are causing a major stir. High Country Motor Lodge features a Nordic spa as well as one of the best mixology bars in town, and Americana Motor Hotel, which opened this past spring, as a retro-futuristic oasis reimagining the classic roadside retreat.

For the younger set, nearby Williams offers the unique experience of Bearizona. Set on 160 acres, visitors drive through natural habitats of North American animals. There are also walk-thru wildlife exhibits and educational animal encounters.

waiting to

By Alison Bailin Batz |

Just two (or less) hours dozens of cool spots—literally —just

(top) The San Francisco peaks, (left) fine dining at Teatro, (above) lobby of the Americana Motor Hotel

Nicknamed “Everybody’s Hometown” for its enticing small-town charm, Prescott is the ideal summer road trip destination. The mile-high city is home to a rising foodie scene thanks to gourmet taqueria La Planchada, pet-friendly and chef-driven Red White Brew, and the hip-yet-cozy The County Seat as well as emerging craft beer hotspots Superstition Meadery, Ad Astra Brewing Company and Founding Fathers Collective, which is Arizona’s largest selfserve beer taproom. Prescott icon Bill’s Grill, widely known as the spot for the best burgers and surprisingly healthy options as well, is still going strong, too. There are also more than 400 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails within Prescott National Forest along with the picturesque Watson Lake, which is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing and even hiking with llamas. If traveling with kids, don’t miss the Prescott Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary or the Prescott Heritage Trail and History Hunt Adventure.

There are several cute hotels in the region, but for something special, look into Talking Rock Ranch, a private golf community nestled between Prescott and Coconino National Forest. In recent years, the community launched the Talking Rock Discovery Experience. The experience boasts a stay in a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom club cabin both for its residents and those looking to learn more about high country luxury, plus golf. The cabin also boasts a full kitchen, working fireplace, dining, and living areas and multiple outdoor spaces.

Spots Cool Down Arizona

Jerome

Located about six miles from Cottonwood and accessible via a paved road up Cleopatra Hill, Jerome is at an elevation just over 5,000 feet, offering not only cooler weather but sweeping views of the surrounding Verde Valley and Sedona Red Rocks. Several historic buildings are still standing, many of which have been modernized and refurbished to welcome guests. Among them is The Clinkscale, which was first built as a mercantile in the 1800s and gained notoriety as the first store where Levi’s were sold west of the Mississippi. Lovingly restored as a hotel and restaurant of the same name, the property gives a nod to the past with exposed brick, hardwood floors, and brown leather and steel accents, yet it is ultra-modern in its furnishings, especially in its penthouse, which opened in 2022.

History is on proud display throughout the city thanks to a bevy of other attractions, notably the Jerome State Historic Park, Audrey Headframe Park and the Mine Museum. Another way in which history comes to life in Jerome is through its wineries. While not the rough-and-tumble saloons of yesteryear, the area’s many tasting rooms include Cabal Cellars, Caduceus Cellars and Passion Cellars.

Other best bets: Crema, Tavern Hotel, Carlson Creek, Nic’s, and Pizzeria Bocce in Cottonwood; The Southwest Wine Center in Clarkdale; Page Springs, Javelina Leap, and Alcantara in Cornville.

hours from Scottsdale are spots—literally and figuratively to be discovered.

Lifestyle contributor

(above) Jerome's mountainside perch, (top right) The Clinkscale Hotel and Restaurant, (right) Caduceus Cellars tasting room

(left) Prescott's centerpoint Yavapai County Courthouse, (above from top) Talking Rock Ranch club cabin bedroom, The County Seat Restaurant

By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

Sleep System Store, the bespoke bed and sleep specialists of Scottsdale, recently celebrated their 10-year anniversary. Now the exclusive Arizona authorized retailer of world-renowned Swedish bed brand Hästens is open in DC Ranch.

Residents can visit one of the only showrooms in the nation to experience the most expensive bed in the world (over $500k), Grand Vividus by designer Ferris Rafauli. Every detail of the mattress is meticulously crafted by hand by select tradespeople. Founded in 1852, Hästens is a complete sleep system, composed of a bed, box spring and mattress topper. The foundation for a Hästens mattress is springy horsetail hair, cushioning flax, slow-growing pine, superior wool and long-fiber cotton.

As experts in sleep, the Sleep System Store showcases a curated collection of the world’s finest, most trusted brands including London's famous Vispring Luxury Beds and American-made, handcrafted mattress brand Kluft. Other items include, headboards and covers, bed legs, bed skirts, bed linen, down pillows and quilts, mattress protectors, pajamas and down boots, and a stunning children’s collection. All made from natural, sustainable materials.

Since its inception, Sleep System Store has become known for providing the ultimate in sleep wellness by offering the very finest bedding and sleep accessories the world has to offer. The experience begins with a trained Sleep Specialist who expertly matches clients with the correct fit and level of comfort they need. Since the Hastens sleep system is personalized to you, with true, responsive box springs, you get that consistency, and comfort levels over time make a huge difference in terms of both spine alignment and muscle support. The goal is to improve overall health, enhance wellbeing, and achieve the best, most comfortable night’s sleep imaginable.

“At the Sleep System Store, you’re not just purchasing a mattress. You have the opportunity to redefine your relationship with sleep and how to prioritize this fundamental element of your health and wellbeing. This is, perhaps, the most significant step to living a productive, balanced lifestyle,” says Jozie Saewert, co-owner of Sleep System Store.

By Lori Stauffer | City of Scottsdale Fire Department

Heat emergencies involving canines are an unfortunate yet preventable occurrence on the urban trails. The desert heat can kill a dog and their owner could be charged with animal cruelty under State law. It is the owner’s responsibility to take necessary precautions to keep their dog safe. While they are excited to join their human companions wherever they go, the concern for how they may fare in the desert sun is real.

A recent review of rescues on Scottsdale trails shows that canine heat-related incidents typically have the highest mortality rates.

Dogs do not sweat the way humans do. They exchange heat through panting and to a minor degree, through their feet pads, according to the American Kennel Club. Additionally, our canine friends do not tolerate high environmental temperatures as well as humans do.

“Remember, a sidewalk and natural rock surface can radiate very high temps,” says Captain Dave Folio of the Scottsdale Fire Department. “If it’s 90-degree atmospheric temp, the potential surface temperature is 135 degrees.” Scottsdale Fire and the staff and volunteers who work in the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve and parks encourage trail users to carefully consider the potential danger to their pet before bringing them on a hiking adventure.

DC RANCH - SILVERLEAF EXPERTS

This DC Ranch Country Club contemporary on 2+ acres has 10,536 of living space with an open floor plan, 7 bedrooms including a guest house, 8.5 baths and an 8 car garage. The main level owners suite includes a spa-like bath, oversized designer closet and two fireplaces. The indoor spaces open to patios, gardens & desert living at its best. $8,395,000

Signs of heat emergency

• Heavy panting/signs of difficulty breathing.

• Tongue/gums appear bright red with thick saliva.

• Skin elasticity (when pinched, does not snap back).

• Becomes unsteady, lethargic, unwilling to move.

• Elevated body temperature (104 F and up).

• Vomiting or diarrhea.

Signs of heat stroke

• Lips/membranes become blue/gray.

• Rapid on-set collapse, seizure, unconsciousness.

What to do

• Immediately cool your dog down with water. Put cool packs to groin area, neck and chest.

• Remove from heat immediately.

• Get to a veterinarian. (The consequences of heat emergency can mean kidney failure, heart irregularities, other system failures and even death.) Prevention

• Leave your dog at home if it will be 90+ degrees at any time during your outing.

• Know your dog’s limitations and abilities.

• If it is too hot for your bare feet on the ground, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.

• Assess the environmental conditions.

• Carry plenty of water for both you and your dog; and be at least half done with the hike when the water is half gone.

• Cool vests and trail booties. for dogs are available and very efficient.

Paradise Valley 6,564/sf contemporary under construction with 5 bedrooms including guest house, 5.5 baths, covered patio, fire pit, pool/spa and 4 car garage. $6,995,000

Near

on 1.65 acres, this 5,000/sf contemporary with casita has 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, living, family, & game rooms, pool, spa, sport court and 4 car garage. $2,995,000

Backing to DC Ranch CC on an acre lot with panoramic city light & mountain views, this 4,585/sf home has 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, a swank game room, theater & more. $2,495,000

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “We’ve re-located a total of 18 times. Mike Domer handled our last three home sales and purchases in Silverleaf and North Scottsdale. He is by far the best Realtor® we have ever used.” Frank Rudolph

Mike Domer Ranked #1 in Scottsdale Home Sales

By the Cromford Report (2021)

For a Free Market Evaluation

Contact Mike Domer 480-861-8883

Mike@MikeDomer.com MikeDomer.com

Silverleaf contemporary to be built has city light, golf course & mountain views. The 9,866/sf home has 5 bedrooms with guest house, office and 6 car garage. $15,995,000

Lost Canyon

Mirabel Country Club new single level contemporary with a Great room floor plan with 4 bedrooms, office, 5.5 baths, guest retreat, pool, BBQ, and a 4 car garage. $3,995,000

Talus at Troon North boasts this 6,541/sf new contemporary with a Great room floor plan, 4 bedrooms, 5.5 baths all on one level except for upstairs game room. $4,495,000

Cross

Think twice before bringing pup on a hike

Celebrating 25 years of community volunteerism

The DC Ranch Community Council and Ranch Association rely on the generous volunteer support of residents and local businesses to help make the community function successfully. Each year, nominations are submitted for Volunteer of the Year awards by residents and the DC Ranch team. DC Ranch recognizes recipients for their volunteerism and service to neighbors and the community at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration in April.

By Devin Haggerty | Community Council

CONGRATULATIONS 2023

VOLUNTEER

OF THE YEAR AWARD RECIPIENTS!

Leadership Award | Jill Hegardt

Jill received the award for her impactful contributions while serving a dual role on the Community Council Board of Directors and Covenant Commission Board of Directors since 2017. She stepped in without hesitation to serve the past year as Board President when her predecessor departed.

Jill takes time and care to speak at community programs such as Resident Leadership Academy and Conversations in the Park, build relationships with the City of Scottsdale and other community entities, serve on numerous boards across the valley, and assist with DC Ranch strategic planning.

Good Neighbor Award | Dinesh Kakwani

An active and involved neighbor, Dinesh can be counted on as an advocate and friendly face for the community. He and his family often attend community events and enjoy the amenities at DC Ranch, frequently befriending families. Dinesh recently joined the Community Council Finance Committee and was appointed to the Community Council Board of Directors, bringing years of experience and knowledge to the positions.

Philanthropy Award | Jeanne Leckie

Jeanne received the award for her commitment to dogs and children. As one of their first service projects when they moved to North Scottsdale in 2001, Jeanne and her husband donated landscaping for three Habitat for Humanity homes. Jeanne has been inspired to pay it forward by giving back to local charities like Foothills Animal Rescue, Hunkapi Farms, and Desert Labrador Retrievers. She proudly supports Crest Specialty School at Paradise Valley High School, local schools with SciTech Institute’s Chief Science Officer Program, and Entrepreneur’s at Seedspot.

Youth Award | Lauren Lipsky

Lauren was recognized for her dedication to volunteering, which started in kindergarten. As a Girl Scout for the last 12 years, she's had many opportunities to give back to her community including collecting items for Goodwill and Foothills Animal Rescue many times, and even making over 140 pet toys to give to Foothills Animal Rescue. Recently, she joined the Keystone Club at Boys & Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale and has enjoyed volunteering at several Fall Festivals for local groups and schools. Lauren has also volunteered at many DC Ranch Gives service projects and events like Spooky Carnival.

Community Partner Award | Joan Fudala

Well-known as Scottsdale’s historian and a talented storyteller, Joan is a cherished community partner and volunteer who has contributed positively to life on the Ranch. Joan has served the greater Scottsdale community for over three decades as an educator, author, communications executive, lecturer, preservation advocate, historical consultant, and member of numerous commissions, committees, and nonprofits. She has graciously brought her talents and expertise to DC Ranch by meeting with the new Historic Committee, leading a ‘Round the Ranch Sunset Tour, and delighting residents with a Spotlight Speaker Series presentation on Scottsdale: Then & Now.

Round of applause to all 2023 Volunteer of the Year nominees:

Dick Armstrong

Elizabeth Kepuraitis

Marla Walberg

Nicole Richard

Pam Kacir

Phil Geiger

Richard Zangara

Sarah Tablak

Scott Whitmire

Tyson Salsberry

Victoria Hayes

Trailblazer Award | Trevor Barger

This award is a special recognition apart from the Volunteer of the Year categories. Trevor is the founder and CEO of Espiritu Loci, a Scottsdale-based planning and development firm, who lead the way for DC Ranch by applying his innovative approach to land planning and urban design. He helped create the “effortless blending” of natural and built environments that characterizes the community. Over the course of more than a decade, Trevor has graciously volunteered his time as a guide for the ‘Round the Ranch Sunset Tours and Resident Leadership Academy Tours. As the bus travels through the four Villages, he narrates the development of DC Ranch, tells urban legends, and sprinkles in little-known facts. Residents are fascinated by Trevor’s firsthand knowledge, which cannot be replicated.

Volunteer of the Year Award recipients (from left to right) Dinesh Kakwani, Joan Fudala, Lauren Lipsky, Jill Hegardt and Trevor Barger. Jeanne Leckie not pictured.

Weese

Want to know what’s happening in your community?

DCRanch.com

The DC Ranch website is the community’s go-to resource for information. The site offers an expansive main menu, easy navigation, search tool, activities calendar and an interactive map. Digital versions of publications like Ranch News, Ranch Roundup and the seasonal Program Guides are also available.

Email

Get the community’s latest news delivered right to your inbox. Email is an excellent way to learn about events and programs, community meetings and neighborhood alerts. Residents can update preferences any time.

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Use #dcranch to share photos and stories with the community.

DC RANCH RESIDENTS CAN VISIT DCRANCH.COM/STAYCONNECTED TO SIGN UP FOR EMAILS AND TEXT MESSAGES.

CONTACT US

WOMEN'S CLUB HIKE

Norman J. Gordon, President, Arizona & David A. Highmark, President, FineMark Sports Management

By Trevor Heffner | McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

Are you looking for a fun and educational way to spend a summer day with your children? Look no further than the Children’s Learning and Play Festival presented by Scottsdale Unified School District. On June 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is bringing back this free family event at WestWorld of Scottsdale.

The Festival is perfect for children of all ages and interests. It features a wide variety of activities that focus on education, health, wellness, active play and exploration. With more than 15,000 participants in attendance annually, this is a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn and have fun while interacting with others.

Children’s Learning and Play Festival

One of the highlights of the Festival is the variety of local vendors from the Valley that will be in attendance. Meet children’s authors and illustrators, hear story-tellers, see topnotch children's shows, live performances and interact with storybook characters. Dinosaur exhibits, arts and crafts, a STEAM showcase, animal attractions, photo booth, kids rides, face painting and other attractions are also scheduled.

The Children’s Learning and Play Festival activities are structured as opportunities for kids to engage in hands-on learning and exploration.

These interactive exhibits and workshops allow children to explore a variety of subjects, from science and technology to art, engineering and literature. It is a great way for kids to discover new interests and passions.

The Conservancy and its wildlife partners will bring live wildlife exhibits featuring reptiles, birds and other animals native to the Sonoran Desert. These exhibits are always a popular attraction, giving kids the chance to see animals up close and personal. It’s an incredible experience that you are sure to hear about during the entire car ride home!

Not only is this event a great way for kids to learn while having fun, but it is a fantastic way for families to spend quality time together in a comfortable indoor venue nearby. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to give your kids an experience they won’t soon forget. Visit mcdowellsonoran.org for tickets.

COMMITTED TO OUR COMMUNITY

By Sydney Ritter | Scottsdale Arts

Scottdale Arts Learning & Innovation exhibits “Visions ’23” to highlight the skills, inspirations and ideas exchanged between students and professional teaching artists over the course of the 2022–23 Visions program. The newest exhibition will remain on display through Aug. 6 inside Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) located in Old Town.

Visions is a yearlong invitational visual arts program that has been provided to Valley teens for 24 years, in collaboration with six Valley high schools. For the first time, the students participating in the Visions program will be showcasing their artwork inside SMoCA.

Brittany Arnold, community engagement manager for Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation, is excited that Visions will get the opportunity to exhibit in SMoCA’s Virginia Ullman Gallery and Smart Space.

“Visions students have really stepped up their game because of this opportunity,” Arnold said. “The program offers a safe space for creative young people to share parts of themselves and be received with open arms. The students’ art inevitably grows with them as they discover things about artists, the world and themselves, and it’s beautiful to be able to observe that transformation.”

The students who participate in the program attend monthly workshops conducted by professional artists, tour universities and connect with exhibitions offered by SMoCA. One of the artists the students worked with is Arizona-based creative Mary Meyer. She described her workshop as a way for the students to “connect with nature and find creative inspiration from the plants that surround us.”

“This is the third time I've worked with Visions, and each experience is truly unique and energizing,” Meyer

Visions ’23 exhibition at SMoCA

said. “I enjoy the opportunity to share and connect with the young artists in our community. I’m always impressed by their passion to create and the innovative approaches to each project—I learn just as much from them! It is rewarding to take part in such a positive and engaging learning program.”

At the end of the school year, the students of Visions participate in

a final exhibition to showcase their artwork. As student Sarah Hammouri shared, “When I was given this opportunity, I knew that I wanted to use it powerfully because, of course, this isn’t a chance that everyone gets to have.”

SMoCA is open Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit SMoCA.org for tickets and more information.