Since its inception, DC Ranch has been trailblazing; from its design, connectivity, and mission, it has always stood out from other master planned communities. DMB, the developer, created a unique governance structure with three entities to serve different purposes: Community Council + Ranch Association + Covenant Commission all work together collaboratively to serve residents and create a community that is beautiful, functions well, and creates a deep sense of belonging.
make critical decisions that steer DC Ranch forward. The boards collaborate to find efficiencies. Did you know that the three entities share a finance team? That we bid services jointly such as audit and mowing contracts to save resident dollars? And we use the same communication channels to keep residents informed and engaged? This collaboration allows us to serve our individual purposes in the most efficient manner for the community.
Jenna Kohl Community Council Executive DirectorDC Ranch residents volunteer their time to serve the community on the boards of these three entities. It’s no small commitment—board directors attend monthly meetings plus special meetings and events; set policy; govern the work of the executive directors; tackle tough issues; and ensure DC Ranch is a place residents and businesses want to call home now and into the future. While some may say the role as a board member is thankless, it is essential, as the resident board directors
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 Coordinator
Alexandra Duemer Communications Coordinator
Kathren Coleman
480.513.1500 communications.team
@dcranchinc.com
dcranch.com
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200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004
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Lisa Schubert lschubert@gannett.com
VP, Sales–Local
Kevin Martinelli
Editor
Jim Williams
Art Director
Miles Abernethy
Recently, we said farewell to outgoing board directors and welcomed new directors. We extend a huge measure of gratitude to those that have selflessly given their time to the Ranch. And welcome to the new board members serving the community, see their spotlight on page 14.
• Sense of Community
• Environmental Stewardship
• Family
• Healthy Lifestyles
• Diversity & Inclusiveness
• Lifelong Learning
• Artistic & Cultural Opportunities
• Relationship with Larger Community
DC Ranch seamlessly connects people to the beauty of both the created environment and the natural Sonoran Desert. Residents feel a sense of community, connecting with each other in friendship and common interest. It is a thoughtfully crafted community designed with unprecedented attention to detail. DC Ranch has a distinctive governance structure with ample resources that exist to ensure a legacy of an amenity-rich and active way of life. The highest standards and a convenient north Scottsdale location establish DC Ranch as a nationally desirable place to live with an exceptional quality of life and premium home values.
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As summer heats up in Arizona, many residents are preparing to leave for cooler climates and restorative vacations. Preparing one’s home to be vacant for any period can be a stressful addition to the joy of leaving town. The Community Patrol and Gate Access team is available to ease some of the stress with proactive and responsive patrol services to ensure the wellbeing of the community including:
Garage Door Alerts Community Patrol will call and email residents with open garage doors between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Vacation notification Community Patrol conducts perimeter checks while residents are away. Submit the form on DCRanch.com.
Throughout Arizona the warming desert land brings all varieties of snakes out of hibernation, and monsoon showers create a perfect breeding ground for mosquitos. These desert dwellers are some of Arizonans least liked native dwellers but are also avoidable by following some easy guidelines.
The most common venomous snake encountered in the Valley is the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, which is known for residing in native desert habitats and in neighborhoods nearby. These snakes may be found on trails, the Reata Wash, in community parks and even golf courses. To remain safe, stay on designated paths and trails, keep ears and eyes engaged with your surroundings, stay calm and contact Community Patrol at 480.397.9659 if you encounter a snake.
Mosquitos of multiple varieties are abundant in Arizona, ranging from aggressive biting mosquitos that increased in population over the last few years, to the less populous genus that carry disease. Remove all standing water, keep yard clear of debris, and treat any standing water that cannot be drained with a larvicide to keep these flying fiends away from your home.
Packages Deliveries can be accepted at manned gates; check with the gatehouse for exceptions.
Car service Residents should inform Gate Access of a pick-up appointment and ensure that the driver has the resident’s first and last name or address for pick up. At unmanned gates, the driver will be permitted entry by the resident. For drop-offs at manned gates, residents must show gate staff their four-digit verification code, or the resident must present their photo ID to prove residency.
Supplementary guidelines around car services are being implemented in DC Ranch to ensure the wellbeing
Many homes in DC Ranch have landscaping requirements that complement the design of the community. The most common requirement is streetscape trees. The type of tree may vary by neighborhood but creates a consistent street view and visual barrier between the street and residence. Streetscape trees are a requirement based on the Environmental Site Plan (ESP) and help to maintain the natural transition into the Sonoran Desert landscape.
Community Standard DCRL-17 sets the specific Streetscape Trees requirements in DC Ranch, with some neighborhoods requiring unique streetscape trees. Generally located six to eight feet from back of curb, or between the curb and sidewalk, these trees help emphasize the character and beauty of the community.
In Desert Camp and Country Club, these trees are owned by the homeowner whose lot on which they are situated. The homeowner is responsible for maintaining irrigation to the tree(s) along with trimming, removal, and replacement as needed at the homeowner’s expense. In the Silverleaf neighborhoods of Arcadia, The Parks, and parts of Horseshoe Canyon, streetscape trees are owned by the homeowner whose lot on which they are situated. The Ranch Association is responsible for maintenance, replacement and irrigation (when needed). All related expenses are neighborhood expenses. In some neighborhoods, streetscape trees are owned by the homeowner, who is responsible for irrigation, removal, maintenance, and replacement; however, routine clearance pruning is provided
of all residents and property. Uber, Lyft and other car delivery services will be given only a one-time pass for entry behind any gate. Due to the independent contractor business model around delivery services, residents will be restricted from adding Uber, Lyft or other delivery services to their permanent list on GateAccess.net. For security purposes, it is strongly suggested that residents put their verification code in the notes section of their phone for quick access to show the guard when in car service vehicles, which ensures the verification code is not announced in front of ride-share drivers. Visit DCRanch.com to learn more.
by the Ranch Association and paid for in the neighborhood assessment. The maintenance, replacement, and irrigation of other landscaping situated on the homeowner’s lot, other than trees in the streetscape, is the responsibility of the homeowner in all neighborhoods.
Additionally, all homes in DC Ranch are required to maintain both a front yard and backyard tree, which follows the general rule of 1 tree for every 1500 sq. ft. Homeowners own and maintain these trees and are responsible for tree trimming that meets Standards for Landscape in DCRL-18. Contact a Community Standards Specialist at 480.513.1500 before removing or planting a streetscape tree, or with any questions regarding maintenance. For more information, view the Landscape Design Guidelines on DCRanch.com.
Community Standards Corner: DCRL-17
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
Total Body Aqua Fit
Wednesdays and Fridays
9 to 10 a.m. | Desert Camp Pool
Pickleball Drop-in
Wednesdays | 6 to 8 p.m.
Sundays and Fridays | 7 to 10 a.m.
Desert Camp Pickleball Courts
Spring Production: Frozen JR.
May 4-6 | 6:30 p.m. nightly May 7 | 3 p.m. matinee
The Homestead
Tickets: Adults $18 | Youth $12 (ages 12 and under)
The Homestead Playhouse is proud to present the spring production
Frozen JR.! Based on the beloved Disney Movie and the 2018 Broadway hit, Frozen JR. brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life. The show features a collection of memorable songs. Come see the talented cast of youth members share their hard work on stage.
Gives Group Service Project
Saturday, May 6 | 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Departs from The Homestead
Ages 14+ | $10 donation
Volunteers will help Habitat ReStore by merchandising displays, stocking store shelves, pricing inventory and assisting with customer service. Transportation and a Gives shirt provided.
Women’s Club: Pizza Making Class
Thursday, May 11 | 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Classic Cooking Academy
Ages 21+ | $55
Work with a culinary professional to create a mouth-watering pizza from scratch, including the perfect dough and pizza sauce unlike anything found in a store. Salad, dessert and beverages included.
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.
Starlight Concert: Rock Lobster
Friday, May 19 | 6 to 8 p.m. Market Street Park
All ages | Free
Enjoy a night of live music under the stars! Rock Lobster will cover the biggest hits from the 80s, 90s and beyond. Residents are encouraged to bring their own lawn seating, snacks and drinks.
Moms & Mimosas Matinee
Saturday, May 20 | 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Homestead
Ages 21+ | $23
Ladies are invited to celebrate the toughest job out there while enjoying some laughs, mimosas and a continental style breakfast. The comedy Bad Moms will play on the big screen.
Social Hour
Friday, May 26 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Desert Camp
Ages 21+ | RSVP
Mix and mingle during a relaxing happy hour. 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.
What do the Ratpack, midcentury modern furniture and breezeway blocks have to do with each other? Modernism Week in Palm Springs! This biannual event explores the architecture and design explosion that brought our desert sister city its characteristic look and flavor.
The 11-day February celebration of all things mod encompasses 350 events; incorporating talks, a classic car show, vintage trailer show, parties and architectural tours of homes and sites not generally open to the public. There are popular signature home tours on the bookend weekends.
By Kat Thatcher | Resident contributor
Tours of Sunnylands estate highlight the fabulous historic home, art collection and gardens of Walter and Leonore Annenberg. Talks are held both at the Annenberg Theater and there are upbeat parties, where participants often dress in their midcentury best. Nothing to wear? A stroll along Palm Canyon Drive will fix that in a hurry, especially at local designer Trina Turk’s store. Bright colors and mod patterns create a cheerful vibe both in her clothes and home goods.
Previously known as “Fall Preview,” four days of the event held in October are now simply called “Modernism Week—October.”
Architectural eye candy by Richard Neutra, Albert Frey and William Cody are seen from the double decker bus tour, whose tickets often sell out months in advance. The tour surveys iconic homes once inhabited by the likes of Frank and Nancy Sinatra, Elvis, Doris Day, Bob Hope, Judy Garland and Cary Grant.
Interesting anecdotal stories are told along the way. The house where Elvis and Priscilla Presley were supposed to honeymoon is pointed out. Apparently, word got out and they were never able to enjoy it for fear of their adoring mobs of fans. Hallmark architecture buildings along Palm Canyon Drive are included, and 30 city districts are explored, including Racquet Club, Movie Colony and Sunrise Park. There are also architectural walking and biking tours.
Follow Thatcher on Instagram
@TheArtfulTourist.
There were 50 events featured in 2022, as well as the Palm Springs Modernism Fall Show. Fine and decorative arts dealers from around the world feature their picks at the show. The opening night cocktail party offers guests exclusive early shopping.
Since 2020, the addition of several other events have come under the Modernism umbrella, including a behind the scenes tour of Indian Wells tennis center, a pop art media exhibit and a mixology cocktail clinic.
Individual tour tickets can be purchased for important midcentury modern homes, buildings and other events on Modernismweek.com.
All of Scottsdale’s 37 playgrounds are deemed accessible and meet ADA guidelines, but Thompson Peak Park (at Hayden and Thompson Peak Park Drive) is now one of two in the city that go beyond basic federal requirements. The vibrant new playground has equipment that is challenging for children of all ability levels. With a combination of standard swings, swings with back rests, straps for kids who can’t sit unassisted and larger swings that allow both parent and child to face each other, the park offers a range of options that allow everyone to experience fun together.
Another play feature—the accessible whirl—involves spinning, which is popular among children with certain cognitive disabilities. The playground also has equipment that provides multisensory tactile experiences, slide
assist exits that allow caregivers ample time to help children off equipment and cozy spots for children who might get overwhelmed by playground distractions and noise.
A crucial initial component of the strategic planning process, DCR2025, is resident input.
When asked, “how would you prioritize the current six strategic initiatives for the planning period of 2023 through 2025,” residents ranked the initiatives in this order:
1. Position DC Ranch as environmentally sustainable for the future
2. Identify and position DC Ranch for the target buyers of the future
3. Invest in infrastructure and future technology for DC Ranch growth
4. Further develop an amenity-rich community and level of programming
5. Continue to invest in health, wellness and active lifestyle
6. Assist with the success of the three commercial properties
In addition to resident sessions, three other groups including stakeholders, the DC Ranch internal team and a joint session with the Ranch Association and Community Council Boards participated in sessions in April. The next step is taking the totality of the input received and updating the Strategic Initiatives. Visit DCRanch.com/DCR2025 for more information.
Do you own preserved documents (photographs, correspondence, newspaper clippings, magazine articles, etc.) or have first-hand knowledge concerning the founding or early days of DC Ranch? Consider donating originals (or copies) of those items or being interviewed for the archives. Please submit your information on DCRanch.com or email history@dcranchinc.com.
we will help you improve your game.
Now offered at the Gainey Village!
Anyone who thinks the desert is simply dusty and brown hasn’t experienced spring in the desert. From yellow blooms on the Palo Verdes to bursts of magenta on Bougainvillea and cactus flowers in vibrant hues, it’s a beautiful reminder of life in the desert. Discover the tranquil vibrancy of 50,000 desert plants nestled amid the red rocks of the Papago Buttes on a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden.
Founded by the Arizona Cactus and Native Flora Society in 1937, the Desert Botanical Garden features hundreds of native species, including 519 species which are rare, threatened or endangered. Visitors can stroll through five thematic trails to explore the fascinating beauty of Sonoran Desert plant life, from towering cacti and alluring succulents to brilliant wildflowers and lush trees. When you're in need of some shade, stop in the 9,000-book library dedicated to native desert plants, as well as the gift shop for gardening and desert-related souvenirs.
The Garden brings decades of experience and passion to a core vision of protecting the earth’s deserts through science, conservation and education. Visit dbg.org for more information and ticket pricing.
Through May 14, the bold and lyrical large-scale sculptures of artist Rotraut enliven the trails while a selection of her paintings and small sculptures fill the Ottosen Gallery. Known around the world, and based in Arizona, Rotraut’s artwork explores the energy of the seasons and the relationship of nature with the sky, sun and universe.
Desert Discovery Loop Trail
Start your visit on the Desert Discovery Loop Trail, just off the Ottosen Entry Garden. Palo Verde trees, along with a mix of cacti and succulents from around the world, line the loop. Don’t miss the Kitchell Family Heritage Garden, which showcases the plants found in Baja California. From the Desert Discovery Loop Trail, visitors can branch off to all but the Desert Wildflower Loop Trail.
Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Loop Trail
Learn how plants have been used for food, medicine and building materials, in addition to seeing examples of Tohono O’odham, Western Apache and Hispanic households.
Desert Wildflower Loop Trail
During the spring, yellow, orange, pink, and purple blossoms color the 0.3-mile loop. Take this loop to visit the Butterfly Pavilion. If you come late in the day, stay until after dark to see night-blooming flowers and dramatically lit cacti.
Sonoran Desert Nature Loop Trail
This trail offers incredible views of Phoenix and the surrounding mountains.
Center for Desert Living Trail
This trail explores sustainability.
Open for several weeks in the fall and spring, the Butterfly Pavilion contains hundreds of butterflies, including Monarchs, that live in the Southwest. The 3,200 square foot open-air structure, features lush garden plantings, a water feature, engaging programming and state-of-the-art nursery space. Visitors can learn about the pollinators and pose for pictures in the pavilion as butterflies flutter around them. Entry to the Butterfly Pavilion is included with general admission.
Special events draw thousands of people to the garden year-round. Be on the lookout for concerts as well as seasonal events like Boo-Tanical Nights and Agave on the Rocks. Dog Days at the Garden welcomes visitors to bring their four-legged best friend for an early walk through the garden, while Las Noches de las Luminarias invites the whole family to enjoy holiday-themed activities as they stroll trails lit by 8,000 luminarias.
May 5 | Bluesman Mike & The Blues Review Band | Blues
May 12 | R. Carlos Nakai, William Eaton and Will Clipman | Visionary world music
May 19 | The Sahnas Brothers | Contemporary and Spanish guitar quartet
May 26 | Pete Pancrazi Quartet | Jazz arrangements of pop songs and special musical guests
This award-winning restaurant serves up New American fare every day of the week. With a seasonal menu focusing on locally sourced ingredients, expect entrées like green chili cheeseburgers, duck enchiladas and lamb curry. Come for brunch, lunch, dinner—or enjoy the scenery with a cocktail.
Botanical Garden founder
Illinois-born Gertrude Webster had a winter home in Phoenix she built in the 1920s. By the early 30s, Webster met Cactus and Native Flora Society founder Gustaf Starck, seeking his advice after purchasing some rare cactus. Starck had a goal to establish a botanical garden dedicated to plants of the desert. The two quickly teamed up to raise money—some of which was donated by Webster —and awareness to create what is now known as Desert Botanical Garden. Webster oversaw the Garden’s opening in 1939 and also hired its first executive director George Lindsay. Lindsay discovered Echinocereus websterianus in the late 40s, and named it in honor of Webster.
By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council
Co-Founders, Jackie Parks and Ariel Schwartz are opening a second location of their popular studio The Workshop Pilates in DC Ranch this month. The new, 1,800-square-foot location will feature a group Pilates room with eight, top-of-theline, Balanced Body reformers, and a separate private room with two reformers. The North Scottsdale location will additionally operate with 45 classes per week taking place to experience their signature MOVE, CIRCUIT, ELEVATE and MELT classes. Both Ariel and Jackie have been teaching Pilates for over 9 years and hold comprehensive certifications, the highest level of Pilates teacher certification from Pilates Sports Center in Los Angeles, California. Currently, Jackie specializes in working with private clients who are recovering from injury after surgery or physical therapy, co-runs the teacher training program with Ariel, and oversees social media and marketing. After recently graduating from Breathe Education (Australia) with a Diploma in Clinical Pilates, she is able to work in conjunction with the medical community to transition clients into full recovery and a return to their usual exercise and activities. In 2022, Ariel received her Nutritional Therapy Practitioner certification from the Nutritional Therapy Association and plans to use this certification to work with clients of the studio to offer a more holistic approach to health and wellness.
“At The Workshop, we truly believe that movement has both the power to heal and also to create and unify the community,” says Co-Founder, Jackie Parks. “Bringing movement in the form of Pilates to our clients is our passion,” says Co-Founder, Ariel Schwartz. “It’s at the forefront of every decision that went into introducing this brand just a few short years ago with our existing studio, and all of our future locations to come.”
The DC Ranch Crossing location will be open 7 days a week with group classes, private lessons, and teacher training available. Grand Opening Class Packages include 10 packs for $200 and 20 packs for $350. In addition, The Workshop Pilates will be offering Founders Memberships that include: 8 classes per month for $129 and Unlimited classes for $189. Introductory sessions are available and classes are available for everybody at every level.
“As a brand and community, we pride ourselves on our core values: transparency, honoring the work, and making every decision for the betterment of the client experience,” says Schwartz. “With all that in mind, our community is for everybody and we’re so grateful to soon get to know the DC Ranch and North Scottsdale neighborhood.”
With a cast of heartwarming characters, Frozen JR. hits the stage at The Homestead Community Center from May 4-7 with three evening performances and one matinee.
By
During a nearly frigid week in January, more than 60 young residents and Scottsdale neighbors gathered in the halls of The Homestead to showcase their greatest singing, dancing and acting talents in front of a group of local theatre directors to audition for DC Ranch’s spring theatre production of Disney’s Frozen JR.
The directors had the painstaking task of creating the cast, and eventually chose 35 of these imaginative young people, ages 8-15. This production marks The Homestead Playhouse’s 29th production since the program began in 2006 to develop young performers and leaders through the transformative art of theatre.
Frozen JR. is an enchanting modern classic from Disney based on the 2018 Broadway musical, bringing Elsa, Anna and the magical land of Arendelle to life onstage. The cast members playing Anna and Elsa, Grace Mikalsky and Angelina Restuccia, have grown up together on The Homestead Playhouse stage. Their first show together was Seussical the Musical Jr. in 2018, when they were in 3rd and 4th
grade, where Grace portrayed a Wickersham Brother and Angelina played Thing 2. Throughout the last 6 years, they have developed into amazing, passionate, reverent performers. Portraying their current roles, as Anna and Elsa, was no easy task. They spent hundreds of hours rehearsing and working one on one with the show’s musical director to hone their voices. These two actresses have grown so close in the process, becoming sisters on and off the stage. The entire ensemble has created a wonderful piece of theatre that will touch hundreds of attendees. In the closing number of the production, Elsa sings “The magic one is you.” This rings true about each performer on the stage. Their hard work, dedication and perseverance shines through every scene and song. The 40+ members of the cast and crew of Frozen JR. are so glad to share the heartwarming story with the residents of DC Ranch and surrounding communities. Come show your support of these wonderful young people and their months of dedication. You will leave feeling uplifted! Visit DCRanch.com for tickets.
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
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
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
Near Lost Canyon 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
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
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
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “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 RudolphMike Domer Ranked #1 in Scottsdale Home Sales By the Cromford Report (2021)
For a Free Market Evaluation Contact
Mike@MikeDomer.com MikeDomer.com
Congratulations to Phil Geiger and Iryna Sukhovolets, who were elected for three-year terms at the Ranch Association Board of Directors Annual Meeting on April 3. The two join directors Elaine Cottey, Greg Kiraly, Don Matheson, John Shaw and Marla Walberg. Phil Geiger will remain as president, Greg Kiraly as vice president, Marla Walberg as secretary and John Shaw remains as treasurer. The Ranch Association is responsible for the professional management and protection of the community’s fiscal and environmental assets. The Ranch Association delivers high quality and consistent operations, landscape, maintenance, and community patrol and gate access services with an emphasis on customer care and open communication that result in sustained property values and exceptional quality of life.
Phil Geiger, a 24-year resident and long-term volunteer of DC Ranch, will serve his second consecutive term as president in 2023-2024. Geiger holds a doctorate and two master’s degrees from Teachers College, Columbia University (NY), an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and a bachelor’s degree from the College of New Jersey. He will serve as a committee member for Modifications and Community Patrol and Gate Access. He previously has served as the Firewise Committee chair, as well as a member on the Policy Committee and Community Patrol and Gate Access Committee. Geiger will continue to work to ensure the Board of Directors operates politely, judiciously, responsibly and transparently.
Iryna Sukhovolets is originally from Ukraine and lived on the east coast before becoming a DC Ranch resident three years ago in The Villas at Market Street. She holds a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy from NYU, and currently runs a successful online retail company selling luxury designer goods. She also homeschools her 13-year-old daughter. She will serve as a committee member for Sustainability and Firewise. Special thanks to departing director Geoffrey Wilner for his service to the community as the Board of Director President for the 2021-2022 term, and Chair of the Modification Committee. He will continue to serve the community as a resident member of the Modification Committee.
Congratulations to Dinesh Kakwani and Rolland Dickson, who were appointed to the Council Board at the March meeting, for terms of April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2026. Ron Belmont was reappointed to a three-year term in the joint board director role, which serves on both the Council Board and the Covenant Commission (a requirement of the governing documents). These three join directors Natalie Ingram, Elizabeth Kepuraitis, Ethan Knowlden, and Alex Townsend. Ethan Knowlden will serve as president, Natalie Ingram as vice president and Elizabeth Kepuraitis remains as secretary/treasurer. The Community Council is responsible for visioning and facilitating initiatives that enhance residents’ quality of life, serve collective interests and promote the DC Ranch brand. The Council provides recreational, educational, cultural, and volunteer opportunities that reflect community values; operates and programs DC Ranch amenities; creates outlets for communication; and defines DC Ranch Standards.
Dinesh Kakwani is a partner at Ernst & Young LLP with over 25 years of tax accounting and financial experience; he has been a member of the Council Finance Committee. He resides in Desert Parks Village with his family.
Rolland Dickson is a physician at Mayo Clinic, where he also co-chairs the Mayo Clinic Arizona Sustainability Committee. He is a DC Ranch Resident Leadership Academy (RLA) graduate and lives in Desert Camp Village.
The Council extends deep gratitude to departing directors Claudia Gharai and Jill Hegardt. Ms. Gharai is a long-time DC Ranch resident and graduate of RLA who brought marketing and parenting insight to the Board in her term. Silverleaf resident Jill Hegardt started her term on the Council Board in 2017 and was the board president for her final year; she also serves on the Covenant Commission. She has been instrumental in many Council initiatives ranging from the master plan to long range financial and reserve planning.
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.
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.
Stay in the know with text messages to your mobile phone. Choose from these categories: Emergency, Neighborhood Alerts, Events and Programs, Community Centers and Community Meetings. Message & data rates may apply.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @dcranch
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.
Tennis has long been one of the best outdoor workouts, and the DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa is a great place to meet other tennis players to play in a positive, fun, skill-building environment. They offer a robust tennis program with diversity for players looking for social play or lessons to improve tennis skills. The Village looks to replicate their success in tennis by adding outdoor pickleball courts and offering even more opportunities for social play.
The DC Ranch Tennis Center is located in a scenic area next to Copper Ridge Elementary School, featuring 10 outdoor lighted courts and a 2,000 square foot clubhouse. The DC Ranch Tennis program is led by Director of Racquet Sports Dave Critchley, who himself was a world ranked professional after playing collegiately at ASU. Pro Gabo Galeffi and the rest of the 15 professionals bring a wealth of teaching and playing experience to the Village.
The tennis program features the famous Dave’s Doubles 4 nights a week, which is a fun, unique, fast-paced doubles clinic played on three courts,
where participants are always competing to work their way to the top court. DC Ranch Village coaches also lead the Valley’s top junior development program. Critchley brought with him to the Village an elite junior tennis program called The Players Academy that has developed over 100 collegiate tennis players over the past 20 years.
As a complement to tennis, the Village is also in the process of adding 12 outdoor pickleball courts (expected to open soon). The Pickleball Program will feature fun social events and organized play for members of all ages and skill levels. If you are wanting to improve your pickleball skills, they are already in full swing offering pickleball classes on their indoor courts.
More information about the tennis programs at the DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa, please visit www.villageclubs.com.
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Tennis and soon pickleball to be in full swing at DC Ranch Village Health Club & SpaBy Sydney Ritter | Scottsdale Arts
A new public artwork has joined the Scottsdale Public Art Permanent Collection at a Scottsdale Water building in north Scottsdale.
“Cholla Reflections” is a collaboration between Keep Scottsdale Beautiful and Scottsdale Public Art. The newest public artwork is located at the northern intersection of Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard and Greenway-Hayden Loop (north Hayden Road).
“One of Keep Scottsdale Beautiful’s (KSB) pillars is to beautify public places,” said a board member of Keep Scottsdale Beautiful. “We identified this high-traffic intersection as an area that would benefit from a community project.”
Typically, the public art projects are developed in conjunction with a city of Scottsdale capital improvement project, but this project was not directly attached to a city plan.
university students Jessica Arnold, Rigoberto Berber-Arias and Alan Estrada Sanchez. The students had a wide range of tasks to complete this project from working with Arizona State University’s architecture department to presenting to the Scottsdale Public Art Board for approval.
“Design ideas were collaborated with the public artist after imagery of cholla cactus skeleton presentations I created, and the muralist took my intention for the design and made it her own,” said student artist Jessica Arnold. “It’s really incredible to see our years of hard work and creative design ideas come to life.”
“This project included multiple artists, agencies, contractors and stakeholders and required a lot of coordination and many approvals,” said Tanya Galin, public art manager for Scottsdale Public Art. “Even though it was a challenge to manage, it was worth it; a once barren area is now filled with beautiful and inspiring public art.”
KSB wanted to include an educational component to the project, so Scottsdale Public Art paired public artists Kelly O’Brien and Patrick Renner of Houston’s Flying Carpet Creative Studio with
Flying Carpet Creative Studio produced five earth-cast concrete monolith sculptures for the site and collaborated with the student team to create artistic metal elements on the bridge, sandblasted elements on the sidewalk path and hand-cast pavers. Part of the collaboration with the student team also included “Cholla Canal Water Resources Mural” by Kyllan Manney on the Scottsdale Water Facilities building.
Their work alongside the artists will have a significant impact on Scottsdale residents and visitors for generations to come.
