DC Ranch News - October 2024 by LOCALiQ

Home on the Ranch

As the Desert Camp Site Improvement Project takes shape to be an improved home away from home for residents, the team at DC Ranch can’t help but feel a buzz of excitement with the progress and anticipated reopening in late 2024. For years, a top request from residents has been a larger fitness center—and that dream is about to come true! Not only is the fitness center much larger, but it will offer top-of-the-line equipment and beautiful vistas to help you stay motivated during that morning workout. The dedicated fitness studio and additional gathering spaces offer residents the opportunity to mingle and enjoy a multitude of events and programming. This all fosters a high quality of life, a keystone of the DC Ranch philosophy. Read the feature story to learn more about what to expect with the grand reopening.

One of the resident-led committees that contributes to quality of life is the Ranch Association’s Community Patrol and Gate Access Committee. The committee has implemented several changes this year to address input from residents. Learn more about the committee and their role on page 14. The Ranch Association is also hosting a Community Safety Forum later this month, featuring updates from the Scottsdale Police Department. I hope to see you there!

DC Ranch News is a not-for-profit newspaper published by the DC Ranch Community Council to promote the DC Ranch lifestyle. The publication strives to build community by connecting current and future residents along with DC Ranch stakeholders through interesting stories and pictures.

Ranch News offers value to its advertisers and perpetuates

DC Ranch’s community values.

DC Ranch Community Council spotlights local businesses as a service to the community and for information purposes only.

DC Ranch does not recommend or endorse any described products or services.

Deputy Executive Director, Community Council

Jona Davis

Communications Manager Elizabeth Dankert

Community Content Coordinator Alexandra Duemer

480.513.1500 communications.team @dcranchinc.com dcranch.com

A division of Republic Media

200 E. Van Buren St. Phoenix, AZ 85004

Advertising Lisa Schubert

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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.

Jenna Kohl DC Ranch Executive Director

Best pup practices

Part of being a responsible pet owner is being respectful of your neighbors and following requirements for dogs. This helps foster a safe and friendly environment for all. If you have a dog in DC Ranch, please remember that outside your home, your dog must be on a leash. Even if your dog is well-behaved, you still put others and your dog at risk if they are not on a leash.

Community Standard DCR-13 states that, per Arizona State law, no pets are permitted at large, and all pets shall be on a leash no longer than six feet in length when not properly secured on an owner’s property. Pets shall be registered, licensed, and inoculated as required by law.If your dog is off leash, you may face fines. There are no provisions for electronic leashes at this time.

DC Ranch standards are consistent with local, state and federal laws. Arizona Revised Statutes Title 11 Section 6 advises that dogs are not permitted at large, as does City of Scottsdale Code Section 4-39.

Many residents ask about the definition of “at large.” City Code defines it as follows: At large means on or off the premises of the owner and not under the control of the owner, or other persons acting for the owner. Any dog in a suitable enclosure which actually confines the dog shall not be considered to be running at large.

Keeping your dog on leash also protects them from getting lost or running into the street where there are cars and bikes. If a Community Patrol or Community Standards team member approaches you because they observe a pet off leash, please treat them with kindness, hear them out, and know that they are working to foster a safe and compliant community for all residents.

Become a Neighborhood Voting Member

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 resident representatives for one-year 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. 1, 2024 Candidate application forms available on DCRanch.com

Nov. 1, 2024 Deadline for candidate statements to be received at The Ranch Offices or submitted online by 5 p.m.

Nov. 18, 2024 NVM ballots distributed to residents for voting Dec. 6, 2024 Ballots are due by 5 p.m.

Dec. 16, 2024 2025 NVMs announced this week

Jan. 1, 2025 New NVM one-year terms begin

2025 Annual Budget Meetings

Residents are encouraged to attend and provide input at the upcoming budget meetings at The Homestead Community Center. The Ranch Association and Community Council boards will approve annual budgets for the 2025 calendar year in November.

Community Council Thursday, Oct. 17 | 5:30 p.m. Ranch Association Monday, Oct. 21 | 6 p.m.

It’s

time to decorate

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.

NVM Election Timeline

“The Matheson Team did a fantastic job with both the buy & sell side for our home. I have used them on 3 occasions and each time the process was super smooth. Don, Jenny, Angela & Jerry were all super helpful and knowledgeable. From the very start, the communication and involvement was top notch. It was an extremely easy process due to all the guidance and help they provided. I have and will continue to recommend them for all real estate needs.”

- Chuck L.

MONTHLY PLANNER

Ongoing programs

All Levels Yoga

Monday and Wednesday | 9 to 10 a.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Strength and Balance

Monday and Wednesday

10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Tuesday and Thursday

10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Yoga Basics

Tuesday and Thursday | 9 to 10 a.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Social Bridge Club

Wednesday | 1:30 to 4 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Pickleball Club

Sunday | 7:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Desert Camp Courts

Fall Cookie

Decorating Class

Tuesday, Oct. 1 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | $34

Welcome fall by decorating your own set of fall themed cookies! Join Stencil Studio’s cookie decorator to learn the basics of decorating, including how to outline and flood your cookies. All supplies, beverages and light bites included.

Gives: Fill the Trucks Donation Drive

Saturday, Oct. 5 | 9 a.m. to Noon

The Homestead Community Center

The Salvation Army will collect new or gently used items for their boutiques, stores, bulk auction and/or recycle. Items that are worn, stained, ripped or broken cannot be accepted. Easy drive up and drop off with on-site volunteers.

Speaker Series: Blue Zones

Wednesday, Oct. 9 | 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | RSVP

What’s the secret to living longer?

Blue Zones Project Scottsdale Executive Director, Sarah Kearney, will share information about this exciting community well-being initiative and nine insights on how you can start adding more good years to your life! Light bites and beverages included. Doors open at 6 p.m. Speaker begins at 6:30 p.m.

Events are subject to change. Check DCRanch.com/calendar for the most up-to-date information. Please note: To sign up for all activities, you must create a CivicRec account. Details at DCRanch.com/CivicRec.

Women's Club: Bingo Night

Thursday, Oct. 10 | 5 to 7 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | $12

Join other ladies in the community to play Bingo and win prizes while enjoying light bites and beverages. Limited seating.

Prickly Pumpkin Patch

Tuesday, Oct. 22 | 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 0 to 12 | $12

Bring your little pumpkin to the annual pumpkin patch! Residents will enjoy games, crafts and a memorable photo opportunity. Juice and cookies provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult; no fee for adults.

Food Truck Night

Thursday, Oct. 24

5 to 7 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Enjoy a night off from cooking as some of the Valley’s best food trucks roll into DC Ranch.

Spooky

Carnival: Alien Invasion

Saturday, Oct. 26 | 6 to 8 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center All ages | $12 (0-3 free)

Prepare for some extraterrestrial excitement and watch the cosmos collide at this DC Ranch Signature event. Residents should put on their best costume to enjoy an evening of intergalactic games, an interactive DJ, cosmic buffet and out of this world treats! Registration price increases to $15 after Oct. 18.

By Kat Thatcher |

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) are digital assets that represent ownership or proof of authenticity of unique items or content, usually stored on a blockchain. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are fungible and can be exchanged one-for-one, NFTs are unique and cannot be exchanged on a like-for-like basis. Each NFT has distinct attributes and metadata that make it different from any other token.

NFTs were conceptualized with the creation of the Ethereum blockchain in 2015, which introduced the ERC-721 token standard in 2017. This standard allows for the creation of unique tokens with individual attributes, paving the way for NFTs. The idea gained traction as artists, creators, and developers explored ways to tokenize digital art, collectibles, and other media. One of the earliest and most well-known NFT projects is Cryptokitties, launched in late 2017, which allowed users to buy, sell, and breed virtual cats.

Digital art: What are NFTs?

NFTs began to capture broader public interest in 2021, with several high-profile sales and projects elevating their profile. Among the most famous NFTs is Everydays: The First 5000 Days by the digital artist “Beeple” (Mike Winkelmann). This artwork, a collage of 5,000 images created daily

over more than thirteen years, sold for a staggering $69.3 million at a Christie’s auction in March 2021. The buyer, Vignesh Sundaresan, known as “MetaKovan,” purchased it as an investment and to support the artist's work.

Museums have embraced NFTs by selling DAWs (encrypted digital artworks), with limited success, to counter Covid revenue losses. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence has offered DAWs such as Michaelangelo’s

Doni Tondo, Caravaggio’s Bacchus, and Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus. The British Museum has offered works by Turner and Hokusai as NFTs.

In Seattle, the NFT Museum aims to provide an educational platform about the evolving digital art landscape and highlights notable works and artists, bridging the gap between traditional art forms and emerging digital media.

Looking ahead, the future of NFTs appears promising and multifaceted beyond digital art. NFTs are poised to influence various industries, including gaming, music, real estate, and entertainment. They could revolutionize how we think about ownership and intellectual property, allowing for new forms of interaction and transaction in the digital age. As technology and creative applications continue to evolve, NFTs will likely become an integral part of the digital economy, blending culture, technology, and investment in innovative ways.

Join Kat for a special artistic presentation at Western Spirit Museum in Scottsdale on Thursday, Oct. 17 at 3 p.m. Follow her on Instagram at @TheArtfulTourist.

The First 5000 Days by Beeple

Community Council supports Prop 490 and 491

The City of Scottsdale will have two initiatives on the November ballot, Prop 490 and 491. Citing positive impacts for both DC Ranch and all of Scottsdale, the DC Ranch Community Council Board of Directors voted to support both propositions. Residents are encouraged to vote Yes-Yes.

The initiatives enable the City of Scottsdale to take care of its most prized assets, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, the Scottsdale Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt and city parks; and the ability to spend the revenue it generates.

A YES vote on Prop 490 will provide funds to keep the Preserve healthy and flourishing for decades. It will pay for extra brush trucks, increased invasive plant mitigation and additional fire department resources. Recent wildfires have shown us this is incredibly important. With the Preserve in our backyard, DC Ranch wants to ensure it ages in a manner that residents can continue to enjoy.

Prop 490 will also improve Scottsdale’s parks and increase the Police Park Ranger Unit, which not only benefits neighborhoods near the Preserve but all of Scottsdale.

While Prop 490 adds a .15% sales tax, Scottsdale’s overall sales tax will decrease by .05% due to another tax retiring. And remember, much of Scottsdale’s sales tax is paid by visitors and tourists.

A YES vote on Prop 491 gives Scottsdale the ability to spend revenue the city has generated to provide and maintain amenities and services residents value and expect. It allows the city budget to keep pace with inflation without increasing taxes.

The state legislature sets the limit for how much a city can spend annually. Scottsdale’s is much lower per capita than Phoenix and most other valley cities. Any change must be approved by voters. Scottsdale has not asked voters for an increase in 18 years.

Reinvestment in Scottsdale’s amenities will positively impact property values and Scottdale’s reputation as a world-class city and continue to provide for the amenities residents value and enjoy.

Young DC Ranch resident receives national recognition

Congratulations to Sophia Lin whose artwork was chosen as the winner of the Arizona District 1 Congressional Art Competition! Her painting titled “Blossom of Becoming” is currently on display in the U.S. Capitol building in Washington D.C. In addition, she was recently awarded first place in the VFW Voice of Democracy contest. Her speech on the theme, "What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?" won her a $35,000 college scholarship. Sophia was sponsored by Scottsdale VFW Post 3513.

FRATANTONI

THE PREMIER REMODELING/ INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM FOR DC RANCH & SILVERLEAF

Looking forward: Desert Camp Community Center re-opening

By Jona Davis | Community Council

New lobby and gathering spaces

The new lobby space will be both functional and beautiful, evoking feelings of sunrise and sunset on the Ranch. Important viewpoints and sight lines have been preserved. Residents will enjoy coffee and conversation with neighbors surrounded by comfortable, modern ranch-themed furniture and distinctive design finishes to honor the history of Desert Camp. Signature art pieces and a community art component will put a special touch on spaces throughout the building.

New lobby hours will be posted on DCRanch.com. After-hours access to the Desert Camp pools, fitness center and fitness studio will be available through a separate front entrance.

Expanded fitness center

This project was envisioned by DC Ranch residents who expressed a desire for improved fitness facilities. To remain a highly desired community with top notch amenities and programs, the time had come to refresh the small, dedicated fitness space with a 1500 square foot fitness center. The new center is thoughtfully designed to take advantage of the stunning mountain views and will offer a full array of state-of-the-art commercial-grade cardiovascular equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, step mill, bikes, rower) and strength equipment (multi-stations, plate-loaded and functional training).

Crosby Corral

Trailblazer Room

Front Entry

The community centers serve as an amenity-rich hub for residents to enjoy as a home away from home. The Desert Camp Site Improvement Project which began in January is well underway and on schedule for a late 2024 grand re-opening. The total square footage of the center will double in size from approximately 7,000 square feet to 15,000 square feet. Here is a sneak peek into the new amenities that will provide an elevated resident experience.

Added pickleball courts

Four new courts replace the two existing pickleball courts. The new regulation courts are properly oriented north-south, are tiered (two upper and two slightly lower) and surrounded by sound dampening fencing. The courts also have shade structures, lighting, furniture, pickleball machines, short fencing between courts to catch stray balls (no more running into the desert!) and paddle holders. The colors of the court surface, desert sand and maroon, blend into the natural color palette while providing contrasting colors to ensure good visibility of the lines and the ball during play.

Walking path

A short, looped quarter-mile walking path has been created around the perimeter of Desert Camp. The path connects to the extensive DC Ranch Path & Trail System. The compacted dirt and gravel surface is ideal for a more comfortable walk and provides ample space for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Updated technology and access

A secure, environmentally friendly and convenient credential format allows residents to take a modern approach to access. From their mobile device, residents will gain entry to both community centers and external amenities such as the pools, pickleball and tennis courts.

Additional projects to be ready for re-opening

Concurrently, with the construction in progress at Desert Camp, the following projects have been completed during the center closure time. This minimizes down-time in the future and enhances the existing amenities. These repair and replacement projects were funded through the Reserve:

• The current tennis courts received a major refresh with the installation of new fencing, windscreen replacement, resurfacing of the courts, new LED lighting and mobile access point of entry

• Pool-area renovation including pool resurfacing and installation of new pool tile, redecking, plumbing repairs and replacement of the shade sail

• New interior and exterior furniture

• New cabana drapes and upgraded chaise chair padding

• Playground surface repaired and resealed

• Bridge repaired, railing replaced and repainted

“Undertaking a project of this nature requires patience. While the timeframe seems long, the ultimate result will be a special place for residents of all ages and interests to gather and partake in engagement, promote healthy lifestyles, and create memories, now and into the future.

The enhanced center will be the heart of the community.” —Executive Director Jenna Kohl

Also added was a dedicated studio for fitness classes offering a perfect blend of function and beauty. With warm wood floors and mirrored walls with ballet bars, the space is ideal for a variety of classes. The studio’s two large window walls overlook the pool area. The natural light and scenery create an inspiring environment, making the fitness studio more than just a place to exercise—it is a retreat for both body and mind. Starting in January, explore both current and upcoming new classes offered at various times throughout the week.

Next steps

To expedite the rollout of the new smart phone access via Bluetooth, residents are encouraged to complete the registration process prior to Desert Camp re-opening. All key fobs will be deactivated on Oct. 1, 2024. Residents have multiple, convenient ways to complete the required forms to activate their household account. Visit DCRanch.com/CenterAccess for detailed instructions or stop by The Homestead Community Center for assistance during lobby hours.

Fitness studio

Walking Path Pickleball Courts

LOCAL LENS Inventive cuisine of Mexico City coming to DC Ranch

By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

Elvira's, Tubac’s awardwinning Mexican fusion restaurant, is opening a Scottsdale location on Market Street this November. The modern upscale eatery is a collaboration of two of Arizona’s top culinary, design and wine savants: Chef Rubén Monroy and Sommelier Tom Kaufman. The two bonded over their shared and impeccable frontof-the-house styles. Over the past 32 years, Kaufman has created over 20 thriving restaurants and wine bars in the Southwest, including The Living Room now celebrating 10 years on Market Street. Elvira’s rich history started in 1927 when Monroy’s grandmother opened the restaurant in Nogales, Mexico, where it remained a renowned tourist spot for 82 years. After graduating from college in Guadalajara, majoring in graphic arts and interior design, Monroy opened and ran a nightclub for several years before attending culinary school in Mexico City and moving Elvira’s to Tubac in 2010.

Known for its gorgeous interior, the vision and promise for Elvira’s DC Ranch location is to step into the heart of a fine-dining Mexican Cocina, where tradition meets innovation. The two-story 3,600 square foot space will be candlelit and full of intrigue, with private velvet seating areas, limewashed walls, antique mirrors and a walk-in wine cellar. Soulful music accompanies the intimate atmosphere, where every detail is meticulously curated to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Under the direction of Monroy, the menu will feature signature moles with up to 28 ingredients, seafood, dry-aged beef and the finest products sourced from local and Mexican farmers. From house-made tortillas, pressed and cooked to order, to exceptional desserts, every dish delivered will be a testament to the highly trained team's dedication to perfection. A few menu highlights include:

Cuitlacoche and Chicken Tacos with shredded chicken, corn truffle, crimini and shiitake mushrooms, roasted corn, onions, tomatoes, and jalapeños rolled in corn tacos on a bed of guacamole and cabbage, with a side of salsa tatemada.

Blistered Shishito Peppers on a soy garlic and mirin sauce with a touch of sriracha, topped with furikake.

Hazelnut Mole with a blend of hazelnuts, walnuts, peanuts, dark chocolate, cinnamon, Chile Pasilla, Chile Mulato, Chile Guajillo and pumpkin seeds. Monroy says, “Mole is the epitome of Mexican Culture, identity, and cuisine.”

The wide cocktail selection features fine tequilas, mezcal, Mexican wines and beers, creative takes on margaritas, mojitos and martinis with fresh ingredients, some native to Mexico. Come enjoy lunch and dinner at what promises to be a new hot spot for bold flavors.

Tom Kaufman (left) and Rubén Monroy (right)

By Susie Timm | Knife & Fork Media Group

Visit WestWorld of Scottsdale on Friday, Nov. 8 and Saturday, Nov. 9 for a two-day experience that brings online inspiration to life through 120 creative, educational expert-led classes and a massive shopping exhibition with 300 vendor booths.

“We could not be more excited to return to Scottsdale and present the Arizona Pinners Conference to our many supporters,” said Kendall Bennett, who co-founded the event with Roxanne Bennett. “We look forward to seeing familiar faces and new ones, too, as we host our best Pinners yet with incredible vendors, shopping opportunities and so much more!”

In 2015, the Bennetts founded the Pinners Conference in Salt Lake City with the idea to bring the spirit of Pinterest to life. Through these events, guests are encouraged to learn, create and connect through workshops and opportunities that empower them to customize their experience while interacting with other passionate “DIYers,” creators, experts, influencers and retailers.

Bringing Pinterest to life was the initial impetus for this event; however, attendees don’t need to be on Pinterest to experience everything there is to see, do and take away from the Pinners Conference. There are endless opportunities throughout the course of the two-day experience for attendees to meet with, and learn from, some of the most

influential and inspiring women on the internet. Pinners features experts in topics such as DIY, crafts, cooking, self-improvement, photography, party planning, scrapbooking, holiday, beauty and fashion, and much more.

During the event, guests can enhance and improve their skills across a range of niches, take home finished projects and leave with the knowledge to propel their personal advancement in a new capacity.

Pinners serves as a place to create lasting memories, build relationships and empower guests to create without limitation.

Pinners Conference continues to bring some of the best brands together under one roof. This year’s event sponsors include Ryobi, Magnolia Design Co., FamilySearch, Makerflo Crafts, Experience Scottsdale and Mulqueen.

General admission tickets are $12 for entry to the exhibition hall and shopping area. Attendance for kids ages eight and younger is free.

Class passes range from $22 to $39, including admission. Many classes will have optional kits available for purchase as well.

Pinners Conference: Creative workshop and shopping extravaganza

Event hours are Friday, Nov. 8 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. All ticket options are available online at az.pinnersconference.com or at the door prior to entry. Parking is available in the north parking lot of WestWorld for $10.

Get to know the Community Patrol and Gate Access Committee

By Davina Lunetta | Ranch Association

Attend the Community Safety Forum

Wednesday, Oct. 23

6 to 8 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Residents are invited to attend the annual Community Safety Forum for an opportunity to engage with the Scottsdale Police Department, Scottsdale Fire Department and DC Ranch team members. Come learn what you can do to enhance the security of your home, what the Ranch Association does to protect the community, and how the City of Scottsdale collaborates with DC Ranch to create a safer environment. Light bites and beverages provided.

The Community Patrol and Gate Access (CPGA) Committee has been instrumental in reviewing and enhancing gate access and patrol services for the community since its appointment in fall 2022. Originally known as the Safety Committee, the group was reorganized by the Ranch Association Board of Directors to expand its scope and take on a broader range of responsibilities. The CPGA Committee has since become a vital committee, providing recommendations on various topics such as camera technology improvements, speed limits, speed deterrent alternatives, reduction of motorized vehicles on paths, and emergency preparedness.

A primary focus of the CPGA Committee has been reviewing and recommending improvements to the services provided by the Ranch Association’s third-party vendors. This includes significant upgrades to security camera technology and locations to maximize their effectiveness.

In addition, one of the focus areas has been the upcoming contract renewal for the CPGA services. The current contract is set to expire soon. The team has collaborated extensively on the scope of services for the Request for Proposal (RFP). Their efforts have centered on aligning the contract with the community’s interests and ensuring that the necessary services are provided within a favorable budget.

The CPGA Committee is also focusing on several key initiatives, including:

• Dogs off-leash policy enforcement

• Path and trail safety for walking and biking

• Enforcement and policy updates to improve compliance with community standards

• The gate and camera maintenance RFP to ensure continued functionality of gate and camera systems

The CPGA Committee’s efforts extend beyond just physical improvements. They are also committed to increasing community patrols and educating residents about the full scope of services provided by the patrol and gate access teams. This dual approach of physical deterrents and community education is designed to foster a safer environment for all.

The committee meets monthly, allowing them to stay ahead of emerging issues and ensure that their recommendations are timely and relevant.

Feedback from Neighborhood Voting Members (NVMs), residents and community stakeholders is reviewed with the CPGA Committee during their meetings. The dedication and hard work of the CPGA Committee is evident in the improvements they have recommended to the DC Ranch team for implementation and their continued efforts to review and enhance current services.

John Manning

Karen Gallivan Jeff Gajda

Pauline Kelly

Scott Hartman

Lisa Olsen Marla Walberg (Chair)

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By Kerry Quinn

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy and the City of Scottsdale are excited to announce the grand opening of the Brown’s Ranch Interpretive Trail, a scenic journey that allows visitors to immerse themselves in “A 20th Century Cattle Ranch in an Ancient Landscape.” October marks the 30th anniversary of the creation of Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, formed to protect the land including the archeological and historic resources within. The Brown family cattle ranch was active here from about 1916 into the 1960s, operating under the DC Ranch brand, originally registered by Dr. William Dorr Crosby in 1885. The Brown’s Ranch Interpretive Trail offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich history of Brown’s Ranch, where the rugged life of early cattle ranchers intersected with a landscape steeped in millennia of cultural significance.

Exploring History: Brown’s Ranch Interpretive Trail brings the past to life

The Brown’s Ranch Interpretive Trail offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich history of Brown’s Ranch, where the rugged life of early cattle ranchers intersected with a landscape steeped in millennia of cultural significance.

The development of the Brown’s Ranch Interpretive Trail is the result of a collaborative effort between Conservancy PastFinders and the City of Scottsdale. PastFinders are a dedicated steward group, focused on the history and culture of the Preserve, that played a crucial role in compiling detailed historical information about the cultural significance of Brown’s Ranch and the surrounding area. Their meticulous research provided the foundation for the trail’s educational component, which has been expertly implemented by the City of Scottsdale. The city transformed this wealth of historical data into engaging and informative

signage, guiding visitors along the trail and bringing to life the stories of those who lived and worked on this land.

To celebrate the opening, a special event will be held on Saturday, October 19 at the Brown’s Ranch Trailhead, inviting the community to learn more about this historically significant site and the work that went into developing the interpretive trail. Informational hikes led by knowledgeable Conservancy steward guides will offer a deeper dive into the history and ecology of the area, providing an enriching experience for all who attend

The Brown’s Ranch Interpretive Trail stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of the past, connecting the modern community with the timeless beauty and history of the Sonoran Desert.

Visit mcdowellsonoran.org to learn more.

By Sydney Ritter

Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts has announced an inspiring lineup for its 2024–25 season, filled with concerts and performances for a wide range of tastes, from eclectic to traditional.

"As we head into the 49th season of events at the center, we wanted to think about live performance as an opportunity to connect with friends at an unforgettable show,” said programming director Abbey Messmer. “There are a rich array of voices and perspectives represented across the season and many artists that will be performing at Scottsdale Arts for the first time.”

Scottsdale Arts announces 49th season

Scottsdale Arts brings Broadway to Arizona, including Tituss Burgess and drag superstar Sasha Velour with “The Big Reveal Live Show!” Aimee Mann, The Commodores and Rosanne Cash also hit the stage to perform for audiences both young and old. Plus, Scottsdale Arts welcomes jazz legends including Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Branford Marsalis and Hiromi’s Sonic wonder.

The dance series continues at Scottsdale Arts including Martha Graham Dance Company with “Dances of the Mind,” focusing on Graham’s psychological works and multifaceted women characters.

For the full schedule and ticket information, visit Scottsdalearts.org.

Julia Chacón

Flamenco Theatre

Flamenco Intimo

Fridays; Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25; 8 p.m.

Saturdays; Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26; 8 p.m.

National and international flamenco artists draw on tradition and improvisation with beautiful costumes, fiery footwork and intricate Spanish guitar.

ANDY GRAMMER

Greater Than: A One Man Show

Thursday, Oct. 17, 8 p.m

Emmy winner and multiplatinum artist Andy Grammer performs an all-new, one-man show, featuring songs, poetry and stories.

The Seth Rudetsky Concert Series

starring Kelli O'Hara with Seth Rudetsky as music director & host

Saturday, Oct. 19, 8 p.m.

Kelli O’Hara is one of Broadway’s greatest leading ladies with performances in “The King and I” and “Kiss Me, Kate.”

Herb Alpert and Lani Hall

Sunday, Oct. 13, 7:30 p.m.

A Grammy-winning power couple, trumpetist Herb Alpert and vocalist Lani Hall lead an eclectic evening of American standards and Brazilian jazz.

Rosanne Cash

Thursday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m.

“One of the most ambitious and literary songwriters of her generation” (Rolling Stone), Rosanne Cash’s poignant and distinctive vocals turn every song into a revelatory tale.