California dreamin’
Laguna Beach's breaking surf and dramatic coastline
Heart of summer
As the golden days of summer stretch before us, it’s time to dream of adventure, relaxation and new experiences. Whether traveling far or enjoying home’s simple pleasures, this issue is your guide to making the most of the season.
Our feature story explores top California destinations, perfect for surf, sun and a little magic.
Many DC Ranch residents escape the Arizona heat, and if you’re heading out, check page 4 for essential home safety tips from the Community Patrol and Gate Access team.
For those staying close to home, the Community Standards Corner highlights the importance of maintaining our scenic streetscapes—one of the many reasons DC Ranch is such a special place.
We also celebrate the dedication of leaders in the community.
On page 9, learn about Vice Mayor Jan Dubauskas, a DC Ranch resident passionate about Scottsdale’s future.
Finally, journey down the Yellow Brick Road with The Homestead Playhouse’s young performers. Read more about their production of The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition on page 13.
Let’s embrace the season with adventure and a deep appreciation for the vibrant community we call home. Whether exploring new places or cherishing familiar ones, we hope this issue inspires you to make the most of every sunlit moment.
Happy travels,
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.
Executive Director, Community Council
Jona Davis
Communications Manager
Elizabeth Bird
Community
Content Coordinator Alexandra Duemer 480.513.1500 communications.team @dcranchinc.com dcranch.com
A division of Republic Media
200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004
Advertising Lisa Schubert lschubert@gannett.com
VP, Sales–Local Kevin Martinelli
Editor
Jim Williams
Art Director Miles Abernethy
DC Ranch Community Values
• Sense of Community
• Environmental Stewardship
• Family
• Healthy Lifestyles
Living Connected
• Diversity & Inclusiveness
• Lifelong Learning
• Artistic & Cultural Opportunities
• Relationship with Larger Community
DC Ranch seamlessly connects people to the beauty of both the created environment and the natural Sonoran Desert. Residents feel a sense of community, connecting with each other in friendship and common interest. It is a thoughtfully crafted community designed with unprecedented attention to detail. DC Ranch has a distinctive governance structure with ample resources that exist to ensure a legacy of an amenity-rich and active way of life. The highest standards and a convenient north Scottsdale location establish DC Ranch as a nationally desirable place to live with an exceptional quality of life and premium home values.
Jona Davis
Executive Director, Community Council
RANCH UPDATES
Stay secure this summer
As the heat of an Arizona summer descends on DC Ranch, 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 these stressors with proactive and responsive patrol services to ensure the wellbeing of the community:
Garage door alerts: Community Patrol will call and email residents with open garage doors from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Packages: Deliveries can be accepted at manned gates; check with the gatehouse for exceptions.
Vacation notification: Community Patrol conducts perimeter checks while residents are away.
Car service: At manned gates, residents should inform their gate
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. 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 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.
Living with snakes and mosquitos
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 pests but are also avoidable by following some easy guidelines.
The most common snake encountered in the Valley is the venomous Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, which is known for residing in native desert habitats and in neighborhoods situated 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 popular genus that carry disease. Removal of all standing water, keeping yards clear of debris, and treating any standing water that cannot be drained with a larvicide will assist in keeping these flying fiends away from your home.
Community Standards Corner: DCR-17 Streetscape Trees
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. Standards for Landscape 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 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.
The Ranch Association, in partnership with the Community Patrol and Gate Access Committee, has launched the 2025 Vehicle Registration Update to ensure accuracy in the DC Ranch transponder database. All owners and tenants are
required to update their household vehicle information. Visit DCRanch.com for instructions on how to complete the self-service form. All hard card transponders are being phased out and will be deactivated on November 1, 2025.
“Arizona Lifestyle Home Management, LLC had another opportunity to work with Jenny & Don Matheson on behalf of our clients. It was once again, a five-star experience. The Matheson’s had the residence under contract in record time. The entire staff are personable, quick & concise communicators, and highly knowledgeable real estate professionals. I recommend engaging with the Matheson Team to guide you through a stress free real estate experience.” – Pamela K.
MONTHLY PLANNER
Ongoing programs
Zen Yoga
Mon/Wed/Fri | 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Aqua Fit
Mon/Wed/Fri | 9 to 10 a.m.
Desert Camp Pool
Full Body Pilates
Mon/Wed | 9 to 10 a.m. | 4 to 5 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Strength & Balance
Mon/Wed | 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Noon to 1 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Yoga Basics
Tue/Thur | 9 to 10 a.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Mah Jongg Club
Tuesday | 1 to 4 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Social Bridge Club
Wednesday | 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Hand & Foot Canasta Club
Thursday | 1 to 4 p.m.
Desert Camp Community Center
Pickleball Club
Fri/Sun | 8 to 11 a.m.
Desert Camp Courts
The Homestead Playhouse: The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition
Thursday, May 1 | 6:30 p.m.
Friday, May 2 | 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 3 | 3 and 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 4 | 3 p.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Tickets: Adults $18 | Youth $12 (ages 12 and under)
The Homestead Playhouse is proud to present its 36th production! This 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. This colorful show is filled with spectacular costumes and a cast of gifted young residents who are excited to share their hard work and talent on the stage.
Sound Journey Float Class
Thursday, May 8 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Desert Camp Pool Ages 16+ | $23
Immerse yourself in a truly unique and relaxing experience at the pool. This transformative class combines the soothing effects of water with healing sound therapy, designed to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.
Saturday, May 10 | 7:15 to 11:30 a.m. Departs from The Homestead Ages 5+ | $10
Volunteers will be weeding, planting, and tending to garden plots with Tigermountain Foundation. Transportation and Gives volunteer shirt provided.
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.
Women's Club: Happy Hour
Thursday, May 15 | 5 to 7 p.m.
Meet at Thompson 105 Ages 21+ | RSVP
Mingle with other DC Ranch women and enjoy the beautiful view from the outdoor patio at Thompson 105. Appetizers provided; drinks are the responsibility of each resident.
Starlight Concert: Rock Lobster
Friday, May 16 | 6 to 8 p.m.
Market Street Park
All ages | Free
Enjoy a night of live music under the stars. Residents are encouraged to walk or ride their bikes to the concert and to bring their own lawn seating, snacks and drinks. Parking is available on the south end of Market Street.
End of School Splash
Thursday, May 22 | 2 to 3:30 p.m. Desert Camp Pool
All ages | RSVP
Join friends and neighbors for an end of school celebration at the pool! Enjoy music, organized games, snacks and soft drinks.
Social Hour
Friday, May 23 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Desert Camp Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP
Mingle at Desert Camp for 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.
DC Ranch Gives: Group Service Project
Starlight Concert
By Kat Thatcher
TABLES
Pembroke (Late 18th–Early 19th C)
Small, versatile table with drop leaves, often featuring a single drawer and slender, tapered legs. Popular in Federal-style interiors.
Tilt-Top (Late 18th–Early 19th C) Round or oval table with a top that tilts vertically for storage, typically on a tripod pedestal base. Common in Chippendale and Federal styles.
Drop-Leaf (18th–19th C)
Features hinged leaves that can be extended for dining, some with gate-leg supports. These are useful for small spaces and often found in New England homes.
Oldies but goodies
With Boomers downsizing, many people are inheriting family furniture. In America during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, several table and chair designs were popular, many of which have been passed down as heirlooms. Some of the most common styles are explained for you here.
Butterfly (18th–Early 19th C) A type of drop-leaf table with “wing-like” supports for the leaves. Common in Colonial and early American homes.
Pedestal Dining (Early 19th C–Empire Style) Large, round table with a central pedestal base, often with ornate carving, particularly in the Empire style. Mahogany is a popular wood choice for these.
CHAIRS
Chippendale (Mid-to-Late 18th C) These feature carved backs with intricate splats (often with pierced or ribbon motifs), and commonly with claw-and-ball feet. These can have upholstered or wooden seats.
Hepplewhite (Late 18th C) Elegant, lighter design compared to Chippendale. These have shield, heart, or oval-shaped backs and straight, tapered legs with simple, refined details.
Sheraton (Late 18th–Early 19th C) These have straight, rectangular backs, and often have painted or inlaid designs. They feature square, tapered legs with spade feet.
Windsor (18th–Early 19th C) Iconic turned spindles form the back and legs and they have bowed, curved, or continuous arms. These are durable and widely used in homes, taverns, and meeting houses.
Federal-Style (Early 19th C) Inspired by Hepplewhite and Sheraton designs and are more delicate and neoclassical in style. Featured inlay work and fine veneers.
Duncan Phyfe (Early 19th C–Federal & Empire Style) Known for saber legs and lyre-shaped backs, these are mahogany with fine carving and classical motifs. Follow Thatcher on Instagram @theartfultourist.
Tables and chairs from these eras were made of high-quality woods like mahogany, cherry, walnut, and maple, unlike much modern furniture. Think twice before getting rid of these items, as many have been passed down as heirlooms due to their craftsmanship and durability.
Chippendale mahogany
pie crust tilttop with tripod pedestal base
By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council
DC Ranch resident Jan Dubauskas won outright during the 2024 primary for one of three open seats on the Scottsdale City Council. She took office in January and has hit the ground running.
“I’ve been pleasantly surprised to see how thoughtful and knowledgeable city of Scottsdale staff is. It’s easy to say ‘I would do this differently,’ but when you see the obstacles behind the scenes, you understand better,” Dubauskas says.
Dubauskas moved to Arizona in 1998 and to DC Ranch in 2013. She says, “I fell in love with Scottsdale and when I asked my son how he felt after changing schools and moving here, he said, ‘Mom, I have so much more freedom here. I can go out and you don’t have to worry about my safety.’”
Dubauskas decided to run for council when she became concerned with traffic and overdevelopment. As a licensed attorney practicing law for 20 years, she wanted to help make a difference and be a sounding board for residents.
The campaign trail became a family affair that included handwriting 9,000 postcards and putting out yard signs. Her 82-year-old dad even helped knock on 4,000 doors in an effort to meet constituents and hear their concerns. Dubauskas says, “People really love living here and are focused on a high quality of life and property values. My messaging matched that sentiment.”
Dubauskas states how special it is that Scottsdale residents are so involved and that the council really does make adjustments based on their feedback. She is looking closely at the budget to see what things should be considered or reconsidered.
Chris Irish, DC Ranch Director of Public Affairs, has also been working with Dubauskas regarding a plot of state land that is currently being used as a staging area for the Loop 101 improvements. “Having industrial zoning at the entrance of North Scottsdale with $25M dollar homes nearby is not the look and feel we want. We are working to proactively change the zoning and protect our image,” says Dubauskas.
Meet Vice Mayor Jan Dubauskas
As for life on the Ranch, the Dubauskas family enjoys walking the paths and trails and observing the beautiful wildlife.
Her husband Jon volunteers as a Neighborhood Voting Member for Pioneer and also serves on the Ranch Association Budget & Finance Committee. Their two young daughters attend Copper Ridge School and love attending DC Ranch events like Eggstravaganza and Spooky Carnival with neighbors and classmates. “The community connection is what it’s all about,” says Dubauskas.
Jan and Jon have a blended family with 5 children. Celia (27) lives in Denver, Colorado, Audrey (25) lives in Rochester, NY, and Trevor (22) is graduating from Tulane University in May and will return home to Scottsdale.
By Alison Bailin Batz
With more than 30 coves and beaches , Laguna Beach is the ideal spot for those seeking sun-filled days of snorkeling, swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, volleyball, and tide pools as well as access to 22,000 acres of wilderness for hiking, biking, birdwatching and more.
Stay There are dozens of waterfront enclaves, but for something extra special, book the Surf & Sand Resort Laguna Beach, which recently underwent a stunning redesign, featuring luxurious new guest rooms, beautiful bathrooms, refreshed pool deck, and stunning new lobby. It also boasts Aquaterra Spa, and they excel at yoga as well as curated wellness experiences.
Dine Laguna is a mecca for Michelin-awarded and recommended eateries, notably Japanese stunner R|O-Rebel Omakase, Italian gem Oliver’s Osteria, and historic hotspot Selanne Steak Tavern.
Do Book a guided snorkeling tour, kayaking, or surf lesson with Laguna Ethos for sure. Carve out time to sample boutique wines at McClain Cellars or Laguna Canyon Winery; drop a line during a Dana Wharf sportfishing expedition; get an up-close look at various sea creatures at the Diver’s Cove, Shaw’s Cove, or Treasure Island tide pools; and check out the local art scene with galleries on nearly every corner. visitlagunabeach.com
LAGUNA BEACH
California dreamin’
OCEANSIDE
Here's a guide to coastin’ through drive or even shorter flight into
Oceanside exudes classic charm and a laid-back vibe, while also offering an abundance of authentically elevated experiences for visitors to indulge in while in town.
Stay Opened in 2021, The Mission Pacific Beach Resort is an energetic expression of Southern California coastal living. Michelin-starred Valle makes its home on the first floor of the resort, while an expansive rooftop pool and jacuzzi coupled with a chic day-to-night bar and lounge destination offer the ultimate vantage point to take in the views. The restored “Graves House,” beloved for its appearance in the 1986 hit film Top Gun, is also on property.
Dine A self-proclaimed “flip-flop fine dining” town, Oceanside boasts another Michelin-recognized gem in Dija Mara, a Southeast Asian eatery with a Western twist; Matsu, which presents modern Japanese fare set in an edgy yet sophisticated ambiance; and Heritage Barbecue, which delights patrons with its Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated grilling.
Do Book a private surf lesson with numerous acclaimed surf schools; relax during a private excursion on a luxe catamaran or yacht in Oceanside Harbor; or charter Waverider Helicopters to tour inland Southern California and land in the heart of nearby Temecula wine country. visitoceanside.org
Surf and Sand Resort
Valle
Courtesy of Valle | Visit Oceanside
Experience coastal luxury at its finest in Newport Beach, which boasts the largest recreational harbor on the west coast as well as five-star dining, myriad aquatic adventures, and some of the best shopping in California.
Stay Opened in 2023, Pendry Newport Beach is a sophisticated and stylish urban resort with sweeping ocean, harbor, and bay views, garden-inspired interiors, three distinct dining destinations, full-service spa, chic pool pavilion with cabana service, and a slew of specialty experiences including private boat charters from Balboa Bay Club, intimate helicopter tours, and even a summer beer garden.
Dine Indulge all the senses at Daiji Yacht Club, offering a 10-course omakase adventure; dock and dine at Newport Landing Restaurant for casual upscale fare; explore the 7,500-bottle cellar at The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar; and enjoy all things seasonally and organically sourced at Malibu Farm.
Do Enjoy fun, games, and even a Ferris wheel at the Balboa Fun Zone or book a guided whale watching tour with Newport Landing or Davey’s Locker. Golfers in the group? Do not miss the renowned courses at Pelican Hill, which are as challenging as visually marveling. visitnewportbeach.com
NEWPORT BEACH
through some of Southern California’s more epic of oceanfront enclaves, all a short into one of a dozen national or regional Golden State airports, all summer long.
SANTA BARBARA
Nestled between a majestic mountain range and the Pacific Ocean, and surrounded by wild, undeveloped coast, Santa Barbara is a self-contained paradise. The city’s distinctive Spanish-style architecture, with red-tile roofs and white adobe buildings, and its lush landscape evoke the aesthetic of the Riviera, but with a carefree California spirit.
Stay The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara completed an awe-inspiring revitalization and re-imaging as part of its 25th anniversary celebration. A new energy and ethos has been infused into the property via an organic design that creates a peaceful sanctuary along natural cliffs and the sea.
Dine The region is home to 15 Michelin-recommended eateries, including urbane eatery The Lark, swoon-worthy Southern Italian Caruso’s, and stylish, eclectic Black Bird.
Do Santa Barbara’s downtown waterfront offers three iconic beaches, along with ocean activities for varying skill levels. The oceanfront gem is also a short drive to Santa Ynez Valley, a premier winegrowing region made famous more than 20 years ago when it served as the backdrop of Sideways. The region comes alive each summer with blooming vines across its more than 200 wineries, including must-visit tasting rooms by Fess Parker, Roblar, and Crown Pointe. like the beach during the summer.
Pendry Newport Beach
Ritz-Carlton Becara
Courtesy of Christian Horan Photography | Visit Newport
Chula Seafood: Fresh caught treasures delivered daily
By Molly Cerreta Smith
Fresh seafood in Arizona seems to be an exercise in contradiction, but Chula Seafood has made its mission to bring fresh-caught delicacies to the desert on the daily— and valley diners are reeling it in.
Chula Seafood has a long history in San Diego, California, where it has operated a commercial fishing operation for decades. To this day, its commercial fishing boat hauls in swordfish and a variety of other specialties from the waters of the Pacific Ocean to its own wholesale distribution business, Chula Seafood Wholesale Direct, where it operates in the Point Loma Harbor.
Here, fresh-caught seafood is processed and delivered directly to establishments throughout California, including many of the finest restaurants. This is also where Chula’s fresh-caught treasures are processed, packed and loaded up for the journey to its three Arizona locations, one of which is Chula Grayhawk in North Scottsdale.
The company makes daily deliveries to its Arizona locations, ensuring desert dwellers are privy to some of the finest, and freshest, seafood specialties available off the California coast. Due to the company’s longstanding relationships with other fisherman and vendors, Chula is also able to offer its guests unique and rare catches.
Chula Grayhawk offers customers a fish marketstyle atmosphere where specialties and daily features are offered “from the counter.” For example, “Today’s Selections” might include Wild Mexican Shrimp, Wester Ross Salmon, Bluenose Grouper and King Crab Legs.
Guests are also invited to sit down and enjoy a meal at the restaurant, with a full menu and rotating daily features that keep seafoodloving friends coming back for more. Diners can enjoy starters such as Clam Chowder, Shrimp Cocktail or a Sashimi Platter, then dive into fresh-made Poke Bowls, Grilled Tacos or classic Fish N’ Chips.
Chula Grayhawk features a full bar, daily happy hour specials and featured cocktails, too. Happy hour beverages range from $5 beers to $3 off wine pours, but also extends to the menu. For example, guests can cheers with an $8 Chularita while enjoying $1 off raw and grilled oysters, crispy fish street tacos for $4 each or ceviche for just $10.
Chula Seafood Grayhawk
A variety of party platters and kits are available to order, ideal for a range of occasions. The fish market and restaurant are open daily.
20581 N. Hayden Rd., #100 Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480.597.9125
chulaseafood.com
By Lindsay Vanegas |
In January, a nervous group of young residents gathered at The Homestead Community Center to audition for a coveted role in this year’s production, The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition. Thirty-five young people ages 8 to 15 were selected and rehearsals took place twice a week after school.
The Homestead Playhouse, DC Ranch’s premiere afterschool theatre group, has been producing high quality youth theatre since its inception in 2006. The program has produced young artists who have gone on to star in television, local and regional theatrical productions, become directors and those who have used the skills gained here to become leaders in their own fields and businesses.
Behind the shiny costumes and catchy choreography lies so much more; this special program is a place of immense growth for the young people involved. Participants gain strengths in communication, creative problem solving, commitment, self-confidence and most importantly, empathy. There is a unique space that is generated while creating a play, one where the cast members become more than simply an ensemble: they become a family.
“I have learned so much here!”
–Michael (actor)
Though L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz was written over 100 years ago, its themes remain relevant today. Cast members have explored ideas of belonging, friendship, perseverance, and challenging power structures. These themes have allowed the actors to connect the script and characters to their own lives, gaining valuable insights throughout the production process.
At the end of each rehearsal, the cast gathers in a large circle to acknowledge each other’s achievements. Hands shoot up as actors recognize their peers for personal triumphs, whether they’ve finally nailed a tricky song, helped others with challenging choreography, or simply showed kindness—like picking up trash or comforting a friend after a tough day at school. This
“Being
here has really changed my life… I have loved every second of it.” –Maddy (actor)
poignant moment of reflection highlights the sense of community this program fosters, where every effort, big or small, is valued.
This cast is more than ready to bring this timeless story to life, knowing that the lessons learned along the way will stay with them long after the final curtain.
“This is an amazing opportunity. Thank you all again for providing such a welcoming theatre experience and all the support and encouragement you give to each actor. This program really makes a difference in these kids’ lives.” –Tammy (parent)
To purchase tickets for May 1-4 performances visit DCRanch.com/calendar
The Homestead
Summer plant care and tips for wildfire prevention
As temperatures heat up in Scottsdale, it’s crucial to prioritize plant care and wildfire prevention. These tips provide guidance for nurturing your summer landscape while safeguarding your home against the threat of wildfires.
By the Ranch Association
PLANT SMART
1
Water wisely In the desert climate, water conservation is key. Deep, infrequent watering is more effective than frequent shallow watering. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and ensure optimal absorption by the soil. It’s important to have your landscaper inspect your drip system for proper operation and to move drip emitters outward away from the base of trees and out below the dripline of the tree canopy as it matures.
2
Choose droughttolerant plants
Selecting approved native and drought-resistant plants is essential for a thriv ing landscape in DC Ranch. These plants are adapted to arid conditions and require minimal water once established. Popular choices include Desert Marigold, Pink Fairy Duster, Bursage and Jojoba. in the order listed.)
3
Prune selectively Keep your plants healthy and tidy by pruning dead or damaged branches regularly. Selective pruning promotes airflow
and reduces the risk of disease and pest infestations. Remove any dead or wilted foliage to maintain the overall natural appearance of your landscape.
4
Provide shade and shelter Shield sensitive plants from
STAY SAFE
Living in the wildland-urban interface of DC Ranch poses unique challenges when it comes to wildfire prevention, and these are some proactive steps every homeowner should take.
Create defensible space Defensible space refers to the area between your home and an oncoming wildfire where the vegetation has been modified to
cacti, and trees to eliminate a continuous path of flammable materials leading to inhabited structures. Remove all dry ladder fuel grasses and weeds, raise tree canopies to a height of 4 feet, and remove all invasive plants. As a reminder, areas designated as NOS (Natural Open Space) or NAOS (Natural Area Open Space) should not be trimmed, thinned, or cleared without prior authorization, as these areas require careful consideration based on individual site conditions. While fire safety is a critical concern, it’s important that actions taken to mitigate risks are carried out by trained professionals to avoid unnecessary damage to both the environment and property values.
Keep roof and gutters clear Clean gutters and roof valleys regularly to remove accumulated tree debris such as leaves and small twigs. Clogged gutters can become fuel for embers, potentially igniting the roof or surrounding vegetation.
Store firewood safely Keep firewood stored off the ground and away from building walls and plant material.
Have an evacuation plan Identify multiple evacuation routes and establish a meeting point for your family outside the evacuation zone. Keep important documents, medications, and emergency supplies readily accessible.
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• Protect your investment from the harsh Arizona Sun.
• Rejuvenate your exterior wood with high quality oil stain.
• Fortify your stucco with a fresh coat of 100% acrylic exterior paint.
• Interior and exterior repaints
• Stain refreshing
• Epoxy flooring
• Stucco repairs
• Drywall repairs
• Venetian Plaster
LET’S GET IN TOUCH ASPEN INTERIORS
Specializes
On Monday, May 19 The Country Club at DC Ranch has the opportunity to honor and support the families of our nation's heroes by hosting the Arizona Wingman Open 2025, a Folds of Honor Arizona event. This annual golf tournament is dedicated to raising funds for educational scholarships benefiting the spouses and children of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders.
ABOUT FOLDS OF HONOR
Golf, gratitude and giving back
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
• Register to play Gather your team and sign up for a day of golf and camaraderie.
• Sponsorship opportunities Businesses and individuals can sponsor various aspects of the event, from holes to special activities.
Established in 2007 by Lt. Col. Dan Rooney, an F-16 fighter pilot and PGA professional, Folds of Honor is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing life-changing educational scholarships. Recognizing the profound sacrifices made by military families, the organization expanded its mission in 2022 to include the families of America’s first responders, such as police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. To date, Folds of Honor has awarded over 52,000 scholarships, totaling more than $240 million, with 45% of these scholarships benefiting minority recipients.
• Donations Even if you’re unable to attend, contributions to Folds of Honor are welcome and impactful.
SCHEDULE
• 8 to 10 a.m. Golfer arrival, registration and breakfast buffet
• 10 a.m. Shotgun start and opening ceremony
• 4 p.m. Cocktail reception, program and awards
Participants are encouraged to don their most patriotic golf attire to show their support and enthusiasm.
By participating in the Arizona Wingman Open 2025, you’ll directly contribute to the future of families who have sacrificed so much for the nation’s safety and freedom. For additional information or inquiries, visit arizona.foldsofhonor.org
Folds of Honor is a four-star rated charity by Charity Navigator and holds a Platinum rating on GuideStar, ensuring that your contributions are managed with the utmost integrity and impact.
By The Country Club at DC Ranch
By Steve Coluccio | McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
The saguaro cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) is one of the defining plants of the Sonoran Desert. These plants are large, tree-like columnar cacti that develop branches (or arms) as they age. Saguaros are found exclusively in the Sonoran Desert and are the largest cacti in the United States.
But lurking among these magnificent specimens is something so special that, like collecting rare coins or stamps, many people spend their spare time seeking them out. According to the National Park Service, they number only one in 200,000. These are the Crested (or Cristate) saguaro.
Crested saguaros form when the cells in the growing stem begin to divide outward, rather than in the circular pattern of a normal cactus. This is an unusual mutation that results in the growth of a large, fan-shaped crest at the growing tip of a saguaro’s main stem or arms. There are other types of mutation that can occur in saguaros, such as segmentation, bifurcation, or even trifurcation. But you can recognize the crested saguaro by the seam (or zipper) that separates two sides of a mirrored image.
the intersection of Desperado and Coyote Canyon Trails, the “Empress” on Sidewinder Trail east of the Pima Dynamite Trailhead, or the “State Land” one that can be seen by looking directly west from Axle Grease Trail at AG13. But there are others along the trails that can be spotted if you just take the time to look around and train your eyes for saguaros that look different from the rest. If you do that, you might just be lucky enough to find one of the icons of the McDowell Sonoran Desert.
Spotting Crested Saguaros in the Preserve
Is the condition caused by genetics? Lightning? Freezing temperatures? Or a virus? No one knows for sure. There are a couple of areas in Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve where clusters can be found within a one-mile radius. Most are in the Northern region. Some are well known, such as the “Double Crested” one at
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