After years of resident input, planning, and design, the Desert Camp Site Improvement Project is ready to break ground.
• Curious about how DC Ranch works? Want a behind the scenes glimpse into governance, landscaping, programs and events, public affairs? Apply to Class IV of the DC Ranch Resident Leadership Academy, set to kick off in spring 2024.
Jenna Kohl Community Council Executive Director
Undertaking a project of this magnitude requires patience, planning, cooperation, communication and, yes, temporary inconvenience during construction. Yet, as with many things in life, the result will be worth the wait. The Community Council has taken great care to put together a project that reflects significant resident input and feedback. To learn more about the project, check out the article on page 10. Many features, changes and policies will be rolled out during the 9+ month construction process; to stay up to speed, sign up for text alerts and track the project on DCRanch.com. Huge applause and appreciation to all the residents who contributed to this project, from serving on the Master Plan Committee to volunteer board members to focus group participants … your vision and contributions are about to take shape.
Other exciting opportunities ahead of us that you won’t want to miss:
• While construction is underway, The Homestead Community Center will be a hub of activity. Located on Legacy Drive, just west of Thompson Peak Parkway, the site boasts a splashpad, covered playground, and open space for walking dogs on leash and relaxing. The center hosts meetings, fitness classes, and fall festivities such as Spooky Carnival. Details on fall programming can be found on page 14.
• The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy is taking the lead as operator of the popular local cycling event, the Tour de Scottsdale, set to return in spring 2024.
Please watch for details and join us for a special groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate this next phase in Desert Camp history and continued commitment to building community.
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
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• Family
• Healthy Lifestyles
• Diversity & Inclusiveness
• Lifelong Learning
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• 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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Each year, Neighborhood Voting Members (NVMs) are elected by their neighbors to serve as liaisons between neighborhood residents and the Ranch Association Board of Directors. The Ranch Association holds elections each November to elect neighborhood representatives for oneyear terms. With 44 positions in total, one for each neighborhood in DC Ranch, NVMs are responsible for disseminating important information to neighbors and for casting the sole vote for the neighborhood they represent during Ranch Association Board elections.
Oct. 2, 2023
Nov. 3, 2023
Candidate application forms available on DCRanch.com
Deadline for candidate statements to be received at The Ranch Offices or submitted online by 5 p.m.
Nov. 20, 2023 New this year: NVM ballots emailed electronically to residents for voting
Dec. 8, 2023 Ballots are due by 5 p.m.
Dec. 19, 2023 2024 NVMs announced this week on DCRanch.com
Jan. 1, 2024 New NVM one-year terms begin. NVM orientation scheduled for Jan. 17.
Ranch Association
Tuesday, Oct. 10 | 6 p.m.
Community Council
Thursday, Oct. 19 | 5:30 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input at the upcoming budget workshops at The Homestead Community Center. The Ranch Association and Community Council boards will approve annual budgets for the 2024 calendar year in November.
During summer 2023, Scottsdale Police Commander Chris Watson was promoted from Lieutenant and will oversee the operations for the Foothills District. Commander Watson served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps before joining municipal law enforcement and has served for 18 years in various police department roles.
Residents are invited to attend the sixth annual Community Safety Forum on Wednesday, Oct. 25 at The Homestead Community Center. Presentations by City of Scottsdale Police and Fire Departments will provide important emergency preparedness information, including “Go Bag Ready” education in case of evacuation due
to fire or flood. Additionally, the City of Scottsdale Human Services Department will present an update on area impacts by those experiencing displacement. Information on Community Patrol and Gate Access initiatives and scope of services will also be discussed. Light refreshments will be served.
With the holidays approaching, please remember that holiday displays are permitted from Oct. 1 through Jan. 15. Residents are asked to be considerate of neighbors by avoiding excessive light or noise at night. In Horseshoe Canyon and Upper Canyon, roof décor is not permitted. For holidays and celebrations throughout other times of the year, decorations are permitted one week prior to the holiday and must be removed one week after the holiday.
Are you looking to make any last-minute modifications before visitors arrive this holiday season? All modifications must be reviewed and approved by the Ranch Association’s Director of Exterior Modifications and the Modification Committee. The committee is appointed each year by the Ranch Association Board of Directors and currently consists of Don Matheson, a Board member serving as the Chairperson, Phil Geiger as a Board member representative along with resident committee members, Pam Anzelone, David Underwood, Dean Gerstein, Jan Spielman and newest member, Blake Miraglia. The committee meets bi-monthly to review modifications submitted for landscaping, architectural alterations, such as adding windows or awnings, replacing the
front door, or adding less than 100 square feet to the home. Landscape changes include adding a new pool, changing your landscaping plan, converting to or adding artificial turf, upgrading a patio or even a built-in barbeque or firepit.
All modifications must adhere to the community standards and design guidelines. After the submittal review is complete, the applications are presented to the Modification Committee which thoughtfully renders its decisions to ensure the aesthetic integrity of the community is maintained. Once the project has been approved and completed, a final project inspection is conducted to confirm the work was performed as approved.
Visit DCRanch.com for modification forms.
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
Zumba Gold
Friday | 10 to 11 a.m.
The Homestead Community Center
Pickleball Club
Wednesdays | 6 to 8 p.m.
Sundays and Fridays | 7 to 10 a.m.
Desert Camp Courts
Guided Hike: Pima Dynamite Trail
Saturday, Oct. 7 | 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Pima Dynamite Trailhead
Ages 13+ | RSVP
Enjoy a guided group hike with a Conservancy steward on the PimaDynamite Trail located within the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. This easy 3-mile loop trail takes you near a rare, crested saguaro cactus. Please wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water.
Sunday, Oct. 8 | 3 to 6:15 p.m.
Departs from The Homestead
Ages 16+ | $23
Residents will travel by bus to attend the Scottsdale Philharmonic fall concert. After the concert, residents will have the exclusive opportunity to meet the conductor and some of the musicians, and to ask questions.
Monday, Oct. 9 | Noon to 2:15 p.m. Meet at Mavrix
Ages 6-12 | $28
Kids will enjoy an afternoon filled with interactive bowling, arcades and more at Mavrix. Registration includes a $10 game card, pizza party and a free game of laser tag.
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.
Wednesday, Oct. 18 | 6 to 7:30 p.m.
The Homestead
Ages 21+ | RSVP
The McDowell Mountains contain a peculiar past of plane crashes, ghosts, murders and wildfires. Join Len Marcisz, a legacy steward with the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, to learn about the impact of southwestern military, mining, ranching, urbanization and preservation activities on the natural resources of the area. Light bites and beverages provided. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 24 | 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
The Homestead | Ages 0-8 | $12
Visit the annual pumpkin patch! Pick your own pumpkin to take home and decorate, capture a memorable photo and make a seasonal craft. Light snacks and juice provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Spooky Carnival: Hometown Halloween
Saturday, Oct. 28 | 4 to 6 p.m. The Homestead | All ages | $12–$15
Trunk or Treat
Friday, Oct. 13 | 5 to 7 p.m.
The Homestead
All ages | RSVP
Dust off those creative cobwebs and bring your decorated car trunk full of candy. Kids will walk by each car gathering goodies, playing games and meeting neighbors. Treating begins at 5:30 p.m.
Residents brave enough to dress in their best costume will be greeted with a classic Halloween carnival complete with live entertainment, old school games, tricks and treats. Tickets required for all participants ages 4+, including adults. Early registration ($12); regular registration ($15) Oct. 20-28.
Planning a cool retreat for next summer? Consider Washington’s San Juan, Whidbey, Fidalgo and Camano Islands. While we endure triple digits, temps average 70 as a high and 50 for the low, with just 2 days of rain! The area is known for its characteristic Pacific Northwest views, landscapes and wildlife situated along the Salish Sea.
What is there to do on the islands? Whale watching tops many visitor lists, with orcas and minke whales all year and humpback and gray whales migratorily. Others explore by kayak, cycle around Lopez, or climb Mount Constitution on Orcas Island for distant views. There are 172 named islands and reefs in San Juan County that provide bountiful opportunities for those seeking solitude. One might spot creatures as diverse as Dall’s porpoise, Steller sea lion, Osprey, red fox or sea otter.
and many ice cream shops (consider local berry flavors). Fresh catch includes salmon, crab, oysters and shellfish. A personal favorite for an elegant meal with a view is The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive, overlooking the sound through tall pines. Reserve in advance!
The San Juan Islands are an archipelago, with four islands reachable by ferry making for easy day trips: San Juan, Lopez, Orcas and Shaw. Horseshoe-shaped Orcas Island has Moran State Park’s old-growth forest and Mt. Constitution. San Juan is known for the lively town of Friday Harbor and
Lime Kiln Point State Park, an orca-whale lookout. All four of these populous islands have plenty of tourism activities, plus lodging and dining options. Though largely residential, Whidbey and Camano Island are home to 8 state parks, including the popular Deception Pass and historic Cama Beach. Expect to see locals digging clams and wear durable shoes for the rocky shoreline. Dense pines provide plenty of shade for a walk or “forest bathing.”
On the adjacent mainland, lush agricultural fields mean farmer’s markets abound, with fruit stands
Consider Friday Harbor in the San Juans or La Conner on the mainland for quaint shops and art galleries. The Wood Merchant in La Conner has handcrafted quality boxes, pens, furniture and carved salmon and trout sculptures. Most towns have plenty of boat slips.
How do you get to the San Juans? Take the Washington State Ferry from Anacortes or the seasonal San Juan Clipper from Seattle’s waterfront. Or fly from Seattle airport on a Kenmore Air seaplane, wheeled-plane or regional flight.
Follow Thatcher on Instagram @TheArtfulTourist.
The City of Scottsdale Parks & Recreation department has launched Shape Scottsdale Parks, a city-wide master plan project that will provide a roadmap for the programming, planning and capital prioritization of the Scottsdale park system over the next 10+ years.
Residents can engage at ShapeScottsdaleParks.com by taking a survey, placing ideas on an interactive map, sharing a “big idea” and prioritizing needs.
Over the next few months, the city will host open houses and stakeholder meetings to enhance Scottsdale residents’ ability to provide input.
As temperatures went up, water use went down
While temperatures soared across the Valley this summer, water use dropped in Scottsdale, saving 7% when compared to July 2022 and nearly 18 million gallons of water.
This remarkable feat is attributed to many factors including:
• Scottsdale’s highly popular grass removal rebate saw a 450% increase in program execution leading up to July. Customers removed 400,000 square feet of grass in one year, which no longer needs water during the hottest months.
• Scottsdale Water promoted an outreach campaign educating homeowners on proper desert landscape watering—no more than two times a week. Heat and drought are tolerated differently by plants, but while more water is needed during Arizona’s hot summers, irrigation systems need to run longer, not more frequently.
• Residents were asked to not water during the hottest hours of the day (10 a.m. to 7 p.m.) to help prevent evaporation loss and increase water absorption.
• Citywide voluntary water reductions of at least 5% continue to be communicated to the public and customers have heeded the call.
“To save millions of gallons of water during a period when temperatures hit +110 degrees 30 times in one month shows that people are listening and that they care about water sustainability here in Arizona,” said Brian Biesemeyer, executive director of Scottsdale Water.
Resident signups for DC Ranch text notifications are up over 30% already this year, mainly prompted by the risk of fire and monsoon storms this summer. Categories include: emergency, neighborhood alerts, community centers, events and programs, and community meetings. To register for community notifications via text, complete a simple form at DCRanch.com/text.
By Jenna Kohl | Community Council
The sunrises and sunsets on the Ranch are iconic. Whether starting your day on a brisk walk or sitting on a patio at dusk, witnessing the brilliant sun cascade its colors all over the Arizona sky can be magical.
The feel of the new gathering spaces in the lobby, corral, fitness studio, and fitness center imagined for the Desert Camp Community Center is one of home. The interior design features, while simple, are intended to evoke a day on the Ranch, with colors transitioning from bright sunset hues in the eastern edge of the building to a rich midnight blue mixed with the vibrant colors of the sunset as you move westward through the space.
This transformation of a centerpiece of DC Ranch has been long in the works. It stemmed primarily from resident demand for a larger and more robust fitness center. That demand spurred the Community Council board to kick off an intensive resident input gathering initiative to create the community’s first master plan, which identified components that residents wanted to see in a larger, renovated facility: additional tennis and pickleball courts, a walking path, gathering spaces, and dedicated fitness class space.
Haydon-Architekton, the design-build team selected through a competitive and rigorous process, has worked closely with the DC Ranch Community Council team to create a space that meets community needs, with a design that welcomes residents from the minute they step inside the door. The welcome desk is integrated into the layout in a way that is subtle yet friendly. You can venture to the
book nook to your left or drop in for a card game in the cozy multi-purpose room. Venture to the north patio to enjoy the fresh air and the majestic view of the McDowells. Past the front door, stop by the beverage station for a hot cup of coffee, and settle into a flexible couch to catch up with a neighbor. Perhaps you will join a meeting in the new multi-purpose room with enhanced technology and meeting amenities. Or maybe your Yoga or Strength and Balance class kicks off in the new,
dedicated fitness studio. After class, stroll around the corner to the fitness center and hop on an easyto-use treadmill and, again, enjoy the beautiful views overlooking the valley.
In mid-August, construction drawings for the project were submitted to the City of Scottsdale for review and permitting. Concurrently, the project was put out to bid. Pending City approvals, groundbreaking is anticipated for late fall with a grand reopening in late 2024. Watch your email inbox for the latest information and updates.
As DC Ranch matures, it is critical to stay relevant and offer amenities that appeal to current and future residents to maintain and grow property values, continue to create valuable resident experiences, and sustain DC Ranch as a desired place to live in north Scottsdale. This initiative was identified by residents and stakeholders as a top initiative in the DCR 2020 Strategic Plan. The most recent community-wide survey feedback demonstrates that amenities are highly rated as important to the resident experience. With dedicated and larger programming spaces, specialty features, and components geared to all ages, the number of residents that the facility can serve will grow.
The primary source of funding for the project will be the Council’s capital fund, which is funded through a .05% transfer fee on property sales.
Due to both a strong housing market from 2019 to mid-2022 and a commitment on the part of the
Council Board to dedicate funding for important community enhancement projects, the capital fund has grown significantly over the past five years. The Council board will authorize loan funding to make up any gap between capital funds and project balance.
To keep the project cost within budget, the design does not address every resident request but focuses on maximizing dollars to meet the desires of the most people impacted. If something was not accommodated, it may be considered in a future phase.
For safety reasons, the entire site will be fenced and closed for the duration of construction, which is anticipated to take 9-12 months. Options will be shared with residents for alternative sites for swimming, fitness and tennis/pickleball courts. Other initiatives are underway, including selection and implementation of sound mitigation measures for the pickleball courts, enhanced programming for the fitness studio, review of facility hours, and more.
Residents may register for “Community Center” text messages at DCRanch.com/text to receive updates. To learn more about the project and its progress, visit DCRanch.com/DCSIP.
The design is simple and reflects the feel of the Ranch. Not extravagant or overdone, it should make residents feel at home. Because you are.
Resident Melissa Lehmann has a passion for decorating, especially during the holidays. She takes Halloween to a whole new level, inspired by the enthusiasm her four children (and now two grandchildren) have for the season. As an empty nester, it’s easier to start the decorating process indoors at the end of August. It slowly creeps outdoors and the lights go on as soon as permitted—Oct. 1!
The Lehmann’s host many gatherings during the holidays. Halloween is especially fun with each room decked out by her collection (mostly from Home Depot) and even a Halloween-themed gingerbread house decorating contest with guests. The outdoors is also a showstopper for neighbors, complete with a hearse, horses, motion-activated coffins and lighting.
“I go for classic scary,” says Lehmann. “My favorite new addition is the life-sized bartender. Last year he was by the dining room table that I set up with skeletons and dinnerware. The bartender talks, so I put him on a timer because it would be just too creepy otherwise.”
Share your inspired home décor with residents by tagging @dcranch on Instagram, or email communications.team@dcranchinc.com.
Paradise Valley this French Country Estate to be built on 4.3 acres with 16,000sf includ
Are you interested in learning more about the community’s governance and operations? Are you thinking about joining a committee, becoming a Neighborhood Voting Member or serving on the Board of Directors but need more information?
DC Ranch is now accepting applications for Class IV of the Resident Leadership Academy (RLA). The educational series involves hands-on activities to educate participants on the types of situations they might encounter as a community leadership volunteer. Leadership graduates are acknowledged in community publications, earn special privileges and enjoy a graduation celebration.
There will be eight class sessions beginning in January 2024. Each session includes classroom-style instruction from different departments and an interactive segment to problem solve, provide feedback and work as a team.
“I’ve had several participants tell me that they didn’t know how much went on here, and how helpful it was to have all of the instructors talk about their specific roles at DC Ranch in such detail. This experience has encouraged them to be more involved, which is the whole reason we do this program,” says
Mike Wells, Director of Operations and previous RLA program leader.
Another RLA program leader, Lynette Whitener, Events and Recreation Senior Manager, recalls, “My favorite class was when the participants took some time to help prepare crafts for the Winter Workshop event last December. They also really enjoyed learning all the different ways we welcome new residents to the community.”
During the exclusive community bus tour, class participants hear fun facts and historic stories about DC Ranch—and share their own! One resident shared how they grew up coming to the area for target practice and another had wondered why anyone would live so far out of town.
“DC Ranch Leadership Academy is a connection to our community. You’ll learn how DC Ranch serves you, and how you can serve our community both in and outside of the Ranch, as you meet with and engage with the various teams and leaders of the Ranch Association and Community Council,” says Jeanne Leckie, graduate of Class III.
The program application and more detailed information is available on DCRanch.com. The deadline to apply is Dec. 15.
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 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. $2,795,000
Modern Contemporary in Carefree on Black Mountain with unbelievable city light and mountain views. This 6,059/sf home includes a 2 bedroom guest house and pool $5,295,000
Brand New single level contemporary on a 1.6 acre spectacular view lot. The 6,501/sf home includes a swank Great room, prep kitchen, office, 5 baths, pool & spa. $5,995,000
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
This single level mountainside home on 2 acres in La Sendas, Mesa showcases stunning city light views. 7,505/sf, 5 BR, 5.5BA with guest house and 7 car/RV garage. $3,495,000
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “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
High quality programs and events are at the heart of the DC Ranch community. Just as DC Ranch itself was founded through thoughtful planning and careful consideration, so are the programs and events. To fulfill its mission, the Community Council provides recreational, educational, cultural and volunteer opportunities that reflect community values. How does DC Ranch determine what programs and events to offer?
Programs ...
... are based on resident demand and participation levels
... provide a diverse array of offerings and events that appeal to all demographics, from lifelong learners to families to youth to adult
... are consistent with and support the DC Ranch brand and community values
… are designed within a comprehensive year-round calendar
… offer a balance of community traditions vs. new/ unique/trendy programs
… are annually evaluated to keep, refresh, or eliminate How are ideas for programs and events at DC Ranch generated?
• A critical component of the selection process for what to offer is resident input. The majority of program and event ideas come from residents via:
- Resident Interest and Demographic Survey conducted every 3 years
- Informal feedback conversations with DC Ranch team members
- Suggestions submitted via DCRanch.com
- Submittals to the suggestion boxes at the community centers
- Participant surveys conducted after events and programs
- Community Council Board of Directors, Resident Group and Resident Leadership Academy feedback
- Resident focus groups
- Programs and Events Open House conducted every 2 years
• The Community Council researches popular trends in programming and analyzes if they might be successful at DC Ranch
• The team also benchmarks current programming with other organizations providing similar services
Annually, more than 65 different programs and events are offered to residents. Some happen once a year, others more than a hundred times per year. The Community Council aims to align the quantity of adult-only, all-ages, and youth-only programs with the overall demographics of the community.
Based on resident input, an entire season of programming will now be open for registration. Rather than waiting, residents can register for programming months in advance. All fall programs and events through November are now available. Don’t wait to register as classes and events fill quickly! All winter programs (December, January and February) will open for registration on Monday, Nov. 6.
Based on suggestions received in the Resident Survey, in addition to the traditional slate of youth programming provided, a few more programs geared toward families were added for 2023. For example, in September Family Yoga and Pickleball Youth Clinics were offered. Mark your calendar for the long-standing family traditions of Prickly Pumpkin Patch on Oct. 24 and Spooky Carnival on Oct. 28 and these two new, additional youth and family programs: Mavrix Meet Up on Oct. 9 and Trunk or Treat in The Homestead parking lot on Friday, Oct. 13.
Due to the Desert Camp Site Improvement Project (DCSIP) timeline, program details including location, date and time are subject to change during the fall. Once Desert Camp closes for renovation, programming will be moved to The Homestead Community Center.
Since Desert Camp will be under renovation, the traditional Merry & Bright Trail of Lights will not take place this year. Instead, mark your calendar for Rockefeller Ranch on Dec. 2 at The Homestead. Join us for a New Yorkinspired holiday event filled with a magical and festive atmosphere. Spoiler alert: enjoy a spin around the ice rink and see a professional dance line kick up their heels. Stay tuned for more details!
Please check the seasonal Program Guide and visit DCRanch.com for the full calendar of offerings, the most up-to-date information and to register.
Source: The Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list, published on January 12, 2023. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2022.
Data provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC. Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: a measure of each team’s best practices, client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. Rankings and recognition from Forbes are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a current or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance results. SHOOK’s research and rankings provide opinions intended to help investors choose the right financial advisor and team, and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Neither Forbes nor SHOOK Research receive compensation in exchange for placement on the ranking. For more information, please see www.SHOOKresearch.com. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (also referred to as “MLPF&S” or “Merrill”) makes available certain investment products sponsored, managed, distributed or provided by companies that are affiliates of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”). MLPF&S is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, Member SIPC and a wholly owned subsidiary of BofA Corp. Banking products are provided by Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC
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.
Mark
By Vickie McWatters | McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
After 15 years of producing the Tour de Scottsdale, the DC Ranch Community Council transferred the event to longtime partner, the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. Slated for April 13, 2024, this prestigious annual event will host cyclists from all over the globe as they embark on a thrilling journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Scottsdale. The Conservancy will be joining efforts with Perimeter Bicycling Association of America, Inc. to produce an unforgettable experience. Renowned for its challenging yet scenic courses, the Tour de Scottsdale
2024 will undoubtedly push the limits of cyclists at all skill levels. Routes range from a beginner-friendly, halfmetric century (32 miles) course to a formidable, metric century (62 miles) course. Riders will navigate picturesque vistas, rolling hills, and exciting descents around the beautiful McDowell Mountains, providing a thrilling cycling experience within the splendor of Scottsdale̕s beautiful Sonoran Desert landscape.
By participating, riders can showcase their cycling prowess and support many Phoenix-area nonprofit organizations. Tour de Scottsdale aims to
spread a positive impact across the Valley by partnering with local charities. These charities create fundraising teams to help raise money to support their cause. Participating charities are not required to contribute to the cost of the event, so the funds raised are theirs to keep! We are thrilled to announce our title sponsor, HonorHealth, a local, nonprofit health organization. Register today to support your favorite nonprofit, including the Conservancy, by visiting Tourdescottsdale.org. There, you will find detailed information about the event, participating
charities and registration instructions. Be sure to secure a spot early as registration fees increase as the event gets closer.
Contact the dedicated event management team by email at Vickie@McDowellSonoran.org or call 480.998.7971 x110 if you have inquiries or require further assistance. The team will ensure your Tour de Scottsdale 2024 experience is seamless and enjoyable, from registration to finish line.
your calendars and get ready to pedal your way through an unforgettable adventure. Tour de Scottsdale awaits your presence, as we come together to celebrate the spirit of cycling and make a positive impact on our community.By Rachel Van Hofwegen | Holland Community Center
The Holland Community Center is excited to usher in the fall season by welcoming back two popular events: the Annual Glass Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser, and the Desert Foothills Book Festival. With over 1,000 glass pumpkins handmade by acclaimed artist Gregory Tomb available for purchase, the Glass Pumpkin Patch will be held Oct. 20-22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Presented in partnership with Desert Foothills Library, the Book Festival will showcase approximately 70 award-winning local authors on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free for both events, located at 34250 N. 60th Street in north Scottsdale.
For the fourth consecutive year, the Glass Pumpkin Patch will celebrate the spirit of Halloween while raising proceeds for the Holland Community Center, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization committed to enhancing arts, education and community in the Desert Foothills region. Beloved for their whimsical beauty and intricate designs, the glass pumpkins showcase Gregory Tomb’s unique artistry. With a lifelong passion for glass art, Tomb has been awarded “best in
glass” and served as the featured artist at the Nassau County Museum of Art, Hampton Fine Art Festival, Stuart Art Festival and Scottsdale Artfest. In his work, Tomb incorporates classic techniques of furnace, fused, flame-worked and cold-worked glass, while exploring new ways to capture light.
Now in its second year, the Desert Foothills Book Festival was inspired by a group of local authors seeking to personally connect with book lovers and promote an appreciation of reading and the literary arts. Featuring authors from the greater Phoenix, Scottsdale, Cave Creek and Carefree areas who represent a diverse array of genres —including fiction, non-fiction, children’s, romance, young adult, historical, memoirs and more— the Festival invites both kids and adults alike to engage with the authors, learn about their creative process and purchase signed books. There will also be a raffle for free door prizes and a paid raffle for baskets of prizes worth at least $100. Proceeds from the event will support the Holland Community Center’s program “Creative Kids: Tell Me a Story,” which engages children in the literary arts by teaching them how to write and draw a picture book from start to finished product. Serving North Scottsdale, Cave Creek and Carefree, the Holland Community Center is a unique partnership dedicated to enriching the Desert Foothills community by celebrating arts and culture, treasuring the desert environment, assisting those in need and encouraging lifelong learning. To learn more, visit hollandcenter.org.
