SRCA June / July Magazine

By Peggy Rauch

Photo taken by resident Rick Ross.

Peggy Rauch

Here are some “factoids” we’ve picked up from national and local publications and sites that will influence the Scottsdale Ranch market . . .

Mortgage Rates – After playing spoilsport for the spring home buying season, mortgage rates finally dipped after a six-week high. They peaked at 7.22% on May 2nd but edged closer to 7% by May 10th. Fed rate cuts are only expected to happen twice this year – if at all. Not so easy to determine what will happen… potential homebuyers might choose to adopt a wait-and-see approach BUT this might not be beneficial since the Federal Reserve has kept their rates the same.

Zip Code 85262 is #1 – Zip code 85253 (Paradise Valley) has historically been the home of the top earners in the

Scottsdale Ranch Real Estate Update

Valley. Based on Census Bureau data the North Scottsdale zip code of 85262 has the #1 spot in household wealth. Scottsdale also has the second highest growth rate for millionaires - behind Austin, TX.

Valley Home Prices – While overall US home prices have been edging downward the Valley was one of the 12 markets reporting month-over-month and year-overyear price increases. Many feel that prices will rise around 10% in 2024 because there will be more buyer demand than sellers willing to sell. Considering that the housing market fundamentals remain strong – values are not rapidly depreciating, and rates will not likely go back to 2%-3% in the near future – now might be a good time to buy heading into a year where rates will likely trend down.

Thinking of selling your home? Tired of waiting for you home to sell? Looking to make a move now before prices escalate again? Why not give us a call and let us add you to our ever growing list of satisfied clients and customers. We have a proven track record throughout Scottsdale Ranch and surrounding areas. We have been here from the very, very beginning and our knowledge and experience allow us to stand above the crowd. Inventory is at an all time low so - jump in now and capitalize on the scarcity of available homes. We are here to help.

Stay up-to-date! Visit the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association website, www.scottsdaleranch.org

Please support our advertisers, they make this magazine possible. Are you interested in advertising? Please call (480) 702-0458 or email: info@clcpublicationsllc.com.

Social Life on the Ranch

13 2024 SRCA Fishing Derby

14 SRCA Lake Festival

15 Boy & Girls Club Art Supply Drive

16 Fire and Fall Prevention

17 Scottsdale Ranch 3rd Annual Holiday Craft Fair

Don’t Fry Our Feet

18 Scottsdale Ranch Golf Club

Knitwits Crochet Group Retired Active Men’s Coffee

19 2024 SRCA Annual Homeowners’ Meeting

Scottsdale Ranch Community Center

Do You Like to Play Chess?

Jazz Night

20 SRCA Block Party Trailer

21 Lake Serena Activities

In the Community

22 Summer Safety

General Safety Tips

Heat-Related Illnesses

In Every Issue

IFC Scottsdale Ranch Real Estate Update

To discover Scottsdale Ranch is to discover a premier and forward-thinking residential community just right for you. At Scottsdale Ranch, you will find a community that reflects your taste and individuality. From luxury waterfront homes and spacious single-family dwellings to private patio homes, you will find a home to suit your needs. Scottsdale Ranch was established in 1981 and encompasses 1,118 acres bordered by 96th Street to the West, 112th Street to the East, and Shea Boulevard south to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. There are 3,939 dwellings in Scottsdale Ranch.

Scottsdale Ranch’s prestige is complemented by its luxurious amenities. Lake Serena, a forty-two-acre manmade lake offers fishing and boating and is considered the jewel of Scottsdale Ranch. Likewise, the Community Center, which also houses the administrative offices, provides a comfortable gathering place for parties, community events, or even a game of cards.

Conveniently located at the corner of Via Linda and Mountain View is the Mercado which offers a variety of specialty stores, restaurants, a drug store, a gym, offices, and professional services. Centrally situated in the heart of Scottsdale Ranch is a 64-acre general public use area featuring many fine amenities such as Scottsdale Ranch Park, a world-class tennis facility, several lighted baseball fields, a beautiful Desert Garden, the Via Linda Senior Center, Virginia G. Piper Boys and Girls Club and Laguna Elementary School, an A+ School of Excellence.

The Scottsdale Ranch Community Association and the active participation of Ranch residents design the lifestyle, integrity, and aesthetics of our community. Visit our website at www. scottsdaleranch.org for more information about our fabulous community!

By Peggy Rauch

24 SRCA Calendar of Events

Mike Metz President

Dave Specht Vice President

Mike Breslin Treasurer

Nina Munson Secretary

Larry Schmalz Director

Louba Rapoport Director

Ron Auerbach Director

Meet Your HOA

A seven member Board of Directors governs Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA). The Board establishes the basic policies of the Association and oversees the operation of the professional staff while demonstrating values of fiscal responsibility, openness and inclusiveness, legacy and innovative leadership. It is our vision that by basing our decision making on our shared values, new ideas will be implemented, property values and quality of life will be enhanced, residents will feel a stronger sense of belonging, leadership and facilities will be recognized as best in class and Scottsdale Ranch will be the most desirable community in the Valley. SRCA’s Board employs an Executive Director who oversees the administrative, landscape and building/lake departments including a full-time, on-site administrative staff and a contracted landscape maintenance company, who all work behind the scenes to implement the mission statement.

The Board of Directors meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Community Center. These meetings are open to the membership. Meeting minutes can be found on our website at www.scottsdaleranch.org under SRCA Documents and Forms, Board of Directors.

Association Information

Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA) 10585 N. 100th Street, Scottsdale, Arizona 85258

Office: (480) 860-2022/Fax: (480) 860-8264

After Hours SRCA Emergency/Answering Service Number: 1 (888) 271-0019

Website: www.scottsdaleranch.org

THE SRCA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED JULY 4TH & 5TH IN OBSERVANCE OF INDEPENDENCE DAY.

OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY: 8 AM – 5 PM

FRIDAY: 8 AM – 3 PM

PHONE HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY: 9 AM – 5 PM

FRIDAY: 9 AM – 3 PM

Staff emails:

Kathe Barnes ......................................................... kbarnes@scottsdaleranch.org Executive Director

Kathy Diab ................................................................. kdiab@scottsdaleranch.org Homeowner Liaison

Genevieve Long glong@scottsdaleranch.org Community Relations/Events Coordinator

Ricki Stamos rstamos@scottsdaleranch.org Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper

Joni Shepherd jshepherd@scottsdaleranch.org Member Services Coordinator

Diane Botica dbotica@scottsdaleranch.org Architectural Liaison

Your HOA SCHOOL’S OUT!

Manager’s Report

By Kathe M. Barnes, CAAM, LSM, PCAM Executive Director

Solve Neighbor Disputes with Mediation

Bruised by a dispute with your neighbor? The occasional conflict is a natural byproduct of living very close to one another. It’s possible to get your disagreement resolved before it escalates and certainly before you end up in court. SRCA does try and assist when it is things within our purview but that is not always the case. If you find yourself needing assistance, you should consider mediation—a process that can save you money and aggravation and lead to a more peaceful community environment. Voluntarily resolving problems builds cooperation, better feelings and stronger neighborhoods.

In mediation, a neutral third party meets with you and your neighbor, often in an informal setting, to keep everyone focused on solving the problem. Mediation works particularly well by managing expectations; and, generally, the dispute is resolved within a day.

For example, let’s say you’re battling your upstairs neighbor about noise. The resident works until 2 a.m. and infuriates you by walking around their unit in the wee hours of the morning. Through mediation, each of you can talk, listen and learn about each other. Maybe they agree to take off her shoes when they get home; or you can call when there is a problem. Is your neighbor’s dog barking? The first thing to do would be to contact the neighbor and let them know. Many times, they aren’t home and don’t know the dog is barking. But if nothing is working, mediation is a good tool for this type of problem.

A mediators’ first task is to understand how and why the conflict escalated. He or she is trained to search through highly charged responses to understand the crux of the problem. Mediation is about compromise. Be willing to learn and listen. Be open-minded. Mediation tends to fail when people can’t get beyond their emotions.

If you go to court, one of you will win and one will lose. If you mediate your differences, hopefully, both of you can find consensus-based, creative solutions to your problems. And that allows for more harmony in the community.

The City of Scottsdale has a free mediation service provided to its citizens. The Scottsdale Mediation Program is a free service provided to the citizens of Scottsdale. Their mediation program is a private, voluntary process in which an impartial person facilitates communication between parties to promote settlement. This process does not involve a decision by a mediator as they are not a judge, but rather a facilitator to promote dialogue between the parties. You can find out more information on this program at https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/citizen-service/ mediation.

Contact info:

Deanna Zuppan

480-312-0217

DZuppan@ScottsdaleAZ.gov

As schools break for summer, more children will be out and about during the day. Residents are urged to drive SLOWLY through neighborhoods where many people, especially kids, are outside enjoying summer. It’s crucial to be cautious while driving on residential streets to prevent accidents and potential life-altering situations. As per Arizona State Law, the speed limit in residential areas is 25 MPH, whether or not there are signs present. Please be mindful of your speed for the safety of everyone!

Board Briefs

March 2024

• The Board appointed Officers for the upcoming year.

• Committee assignments for board members were made for the upcoming year.

• The Board rendered a decision about a dog nuisance issue.

• The Board heard a resident Architectural appeal.

• The Variance Committee Charter was dissolved as it is no longer needed.

• Revisions to the Executive Committee Charter were adopted.

April 2024

• The Board heard an appeal regarding dog nuisance violation and upheld decision.

• A Member Access to Board Members policy was adopted by the board.

The SRCA office will be closed July 4th & 5th in observance of Independence Day.

President’s Message

By Matt Metz SRCA Board President

Scottsdale Ranch is a large scale, master association. We are fortunate to have a full-time Executive Director to oversee all operational matters of the Association.

The Board of Directors, in contrast, is a strategic, policy-setting body whose members volunteer on a part-time basis. The Board sets the direction for the Association and has empowered the Executive Director to handle all administrative and day-to-day issues that arise.

Because we have the luxury of having a full-time and competent Executive Director and staff, unlike smaller associations, Board members do not typically engage in operational matters unless required to do so by our controlling documents, or unless assistance or guidance is requested by the Executive Director.

In this sense, SRCA differs from most smaller homeowner associations which are either self-managed or have contracted with a portfolio manager. Because of the limited scope or ability of portfolio managers, Board members of smaller HOAs are often engaged directly, one-on-one, with members of those associations.

Given that Scottsdale Ranch has nearly 4,000 units, it is simply not practical for its Board members to be directly engaged with members in operational matters; if all 4,000 members could contact Board Members on their concerns, it would be overwhelming for the part-time, volunteer Board Members. In addition, per board policy, individual Board Members are not empowered to speak on behalf of the Board without the authority of the Board as a whole; comments made by Board Members to Association members could easily be misinterpreted as being official Scottsdale Ranch policy.

Thus, for Scottsdale Ranch, our members’ first point of contact on all association matters should be with the Executive Director or her staff. The Board of Directors has great confidence that the Executive Director and staff have the skills and abilities to address the vast majority of issues or concerns raised by members.

However, Scottsdale Ranch values openness and accessibility. If members feel their concerns are not being adequately addressed by the Executive Director, those members have several options:

• Members may request the Executive Director to raise their concerns with the Board President or with the Board of Directors as a whole. The result of this may be that the Board President may work with the Executive Director to prepare a response to the member’s concern, or the issue may be put on the agenda of an upcoming Board of Directors meeting.

• Alternatively, members may raise any issue at any regular board meeting during the Homeowner’s Open Forum. Items raised during the Open Forum may be slated for a future board meeting agenda. Note that according to Arizona Open Meeting Law, the Board is not permitted to act, during that meeting, on an issue raised during this Open Forum of the meeting.

In summary, as a master association, we have empowered our Executive Director and her staff to be the first points of contact for all Association matters, and we trust that they will effectively address any concerns raised by our members. For the rare circumstances in which members feel their needs are not being addressed by Kathe and her staff, members can ask Kathe to raise the issue with the Board President, or members can raise the issue during Open Forum at any open board meeting.

Home & Landscape

From Your Homeowner Liaison

By Kathy Diab SRCA Homeowner Liaison

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING SCOTTSDALE RANCH CC&R’S

With many new residents moving to Scottsdale Ranch, I thought it would be a good time to answer some questions. Please remember if you live in a sub-association, your community documents may be more restrictive.

1. What time can construction and maintenance activities begin, which includes construction noise as well as landscaping blowers, etc

They may take place between 7:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. on Sundays.

2. Can I lease my home?

SRCA rules apply to Single Family residences only. An Owner may not lease his Lot to more than one single family at a time. The residence can be leased no more than two times during any 365-day period and for no less than 30 days.

3. Can I park in front of my home?

It is the intent of the SRCA to restrict on-Street parking as much as possible. We ask that residents use their garage and driveways before parking in the street.

4. Can I have a yard sale?

You can participate in our Community Wide Spring Sale & Fall Sale or have your own. You may not put-up signs around the ranch. You are permitted to put one yard sale sign in front of your home on the day of the yard sale.

5. When can I put up Holiday lights and when do I have to take them down?

Holiday lights and decorations may be installed no more than 30 days prior to the identified holiday and must be taken down within 15 days after that same holiday.

6. What can I do if a neighbor has a barking dog?

You can first try to discuss this with your neighbor. If you do not get results, then contact our office and we can send out a Courtesy Notice. Another option is to call non-emergency Police to file a report.

7. Can I park my work truck in my driveway?

Commercial Vehicles may only be present when it is necessary for the performance of the service. SRCA does not allow a Commercial Vehicle to be parked permanently or for extended periods of time. Please check the SRCA rules for specific on commercial vehicles.

The use of SRCA facilities and amenities are voluntary and at your own risk. The Association is not the guarantor of your personal safety if renting the community center, recreational boat rentals, or attending any groups, clubs or SRCA events.

For up-to-date information, please visit our website at www.scottsdaleranch.org or sign up to receive our weekly email blasts.

Palm Tree Trimming

Please ensure all palm trees on your property are properly pruned, removing any dead fronds and flowers. When scheduling your palm tree trimming, please coordinate with the brushbulk pickup schedule to dispose of the cut fronds properly. Also, make sure there are no obstructions on the sidewalk. If the tree trimming schedule does not coincide with the brush-bulk pickup, the trimming company will need to take care of disposing the trimmings. Thank you for your cooperation.

8. Can I string Edison lights across my yard?

Edison lights are allowed but must be installed under a covered structure. Prior architectural approval is required.

9. Where can I drain my pool water?

Water discharged when pool filters are backwashed must be contained on the subject’s Lot or Parcel. Water shall not be discharged at the front of the house, onto other private property, onto SRCA Common Areas or onto any private or public rightof-way, including Lake Serena.

10. Can I have an RV or boat parked at my house?

Temporary parking of certain recreational vehicles shall be permitted for the purposes of loading and unloading only.

This information can be found in the CC&Rs listed on the Scottsdale Ranch website: www.scottsdaleranch.org. Please contact me with questions you may have: kdiab@scottsdaleranch.org or at 480-860-2022. Thank you for your continued cooperation in keeping Scottsdale Ranch a great place to live.

Architectural Report

By Diane Botica SRCA Architectural Liaison

GREAT RESOURCES AVAILABLE WITH THE PROJECT CHECKLISTS FOR ARCHITECTURAL SUBMITTALS

I am always pleased to help homeowners who reach out to ask questions before they make exterior property changes. Over the years, our office has tried to make the process as painless and easy as possible.

On the architectural page (click on the blue box labeled “Plan My Project”) of our website (https://www.scottsdaleranch.org), the application and project checklists are ready to help homeowners create their submittal packets for review. I find that often people go to the website and download the application, but they do not notice the project checklists that are available on the same page. This is why we added a box to be checked just above the required signature on the application form to help remind homeowners that the supporting documents are required for the review. The checklists help make the process easier for homeowners as well as help the architectural committee to understand the full extent of your project. Using the checklist to ensure the proper documents have been submitted can make the turnaround time for desk reviews 80% faster. This is very helpful due to the volume of submittals that cross my desk daily.

Within the architectural rules that are also available on the architectural page of our website, there is a list of all submittal types that can be desk reviewed by the executive director. That is as long as they meet all the criteria outlined in the guidelines or there are not any neighbor concerns.

Of course, this does not apply to large-scale projects which are reviewed by the architectural committee once all the required information has been received. For many of these larger projects, disclosure notices are sent out to neighboring properties and the submittal is then set for a committee review date.

Our friendly icon on the main page of the SRCA website makes it easy to access the architectural page, just one click away. You can find virtually everything you need to create your submittal packet.

Scottsdale EZ / Report a Problem

Whether it’s a broken streetlight, a fresh pothole, a missing trash can, or an out-of-place scooter, our EZ online service makes it simpler for residents to report problems with city facilities or services. Scottsdale EZ allows you to quickly report issues on your desktop or mobile device and provides the city with a consolidated tracking and reporting system. Please visit https://eservices.scottsdaleaz.gov/ez.

OUR HOA/COMMERCIAL PROJECTS INCLUDE BOTH NEW CONSTRUCTION AND REPAIRS/RESTORATIONS (480) 767-9900

Office Located Inside Scottsdale Ranch 102nd Street & Via Linda 10245 E. Via Linda, Suite 106 Scottsdale, AZ

CONSTRUCTION – RECONSTRUCTION – REMODELS info@miceliconstructiongroup.com www.miceliconstructiongroup.com

Home & Landscape

Summer Gardening Tips for a Vibrant Landscape

By Jesus Cera SDL SQP Manager

Summer has arrived, bringing with it warm days and drier conditions. As you enjoy the longer days, it’s important to adjust your gardening practices to keep your landscape looking its best during this time of year. Follow these tips to maintain a vibrant garden throughout the summer.

1. Timing of Plantings

If you missed planting in May, hold off on new plantings until the higher humidity of July, August, and September. These months provide the optimal conditions for new plantings, especially for citrus trees.

2. Proper Watering

As temperatures rise, proper watering becomes crucial. Ensure your landscape plants receive enough water to thrive. Shrubs should be watered to a depth of 2 feet, while trees require a depth of 3 feet. Use a soil probe to monitor moisture levels and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

• Watering Frequency: Established gardens generally need watering 1-2 times per week for an hour. Mature trees do well with watering of 90-120 minutes at 10-20 day intervals.

• Adjust for Rain: As monsoon rain cycles approach, modify your watering schedule based on the amount of rainfall you receive.

3. Lawn Care

By June, your Bermuda lawn should be thriving, and winter rye should be fading. Take advantage of the summer season by aerating your lawn and applying a balanced fertilizer with at least 19-21% nitrogen to promote healthy growth.

4. Tree Pruning

With increased heat and irrigation, expect new growth on your trees, particularly Elms, Mesquites, and Palo Verdes. Avoid thinning out your trees during the hot summer months, as this can expose branches to intense sunlight. Instead, focus on tip pruning of longer, drooping branches.

5. Palm Maintenance

June and July are ideal for pruning palms such as date and Canary Island varieties. Remove new flower stalks to prevent fruit formation, and prune fan palms (Mexican and Californian varieties) at angles of 9:00 and 3:00 degrees, up to 10:00 and 2:00.

By following these tips, you can keep your landscape healthy and vibrant throughout the summer. As always, monitor your plants closely and adjust your care routine as needed based on weather conditions.

Community Notices

Vacation Watch Request

This long-standing service allows residents to request Police Officers drive by their home to check when they are on vacation. There is no guarantee officers will be able to check the home each day and is subject to department priority calls for service. To submit a vacation watch form, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov and search Vacation Watch.

Pool Draining

To keep your pool ready for the summer, regular maintenance like draining and backwashing is necessary. However, it is vital to dispose of the water correctly to protect the environment and show consideration for your neighbor’s properties. Avoid releasing pool water into the street as it not only disturbs neighbors but also violates local, state, and federal regulations. For additional details, please visit scottsdaleaz.gov and search “pool draining”.

SUMMER PROGRAMS AND CAMPS

Parks and Recreation summer camps offer dynamic, enriching recreational opportunities for youth. The activities conducted in the camps will contribute to the physical, social and mental growth of each participant; June 3 – July 26.

For details, please visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/sports/summerprograms.

CHANGING YOUR HOME ADDRESS FOR THE SUMMER?

To receive important letters, mailers, invoices, and the SRCA bi-monthly magazine, it’s essential to keep your contact information up-to-date with the SRCA office. If you want to change your primary mailing address, email Ricki Stamos at rstamos@scottsdaleranch.org to have your information updated in the property management software.

PROTECT YOUR BOAT DURING MONSOON SEASON!

Boat owners should remember to loosen their dock line before leaving for the summer to safeguard their boats and docks from bad weather conditions during the monsoon season. Additionally, the SRCA recommends providing the contact information of a trusted neighbor who remains in town during the summer in case of an emergency. It’s important to note that there is a $75 Watercraft Tow Policy charge if a boat must be rescued and towed by SRCA staff.

LAKE SERENA BOAT IDENTIFICATION STICKER

Attention Scottsdale Ranch Boat Owners:

All boat owners on Lake Serena must have a SRCA boating identification sticker visibly displayed on their boat. If you do not have an identification sticker, you will need to complete a Boat Sticker Application and submit it to the SRCA office to obtain one. You can find the application on the SRCA website at www.scottsdaleranch.org under Local Amenities / Lake Serena / Boating Guidelines.

City of Scottsdale Collection Services

June 10 & July 15

SCOTTSDALE RANCH IS AREA 3

This Information can be found on the City of Scottsdale’s website at www.scottsdaleaz.gov.

The earliest items can be placed out is the Wednesday prior to the week of pickup and must be placed out no later than 5:00 am on Monday the week of the scheduled pick up. Residents, please be considerate of your neighbors - do not put your items out before the designated dates. Placing items out before this time can result in hefty fines being assessed to your account.

Please be patient as the city has all week to pick-up in our area.

NOTICES FROM THE CITY OF SCOTTSDALE:

Please separate your brush and bulk pickup into two piles – one for green waste and one for everything else. The piles will be picked up by separate trucks during your designated brush and bulk pickup week.

*Please refrain from placing trash containers or bulk trash where it blocks the sidewalk and would prevent pedestrians or wheelchair bound residents from passing along the sidewalk.

Monsoon Season!

Monsoon season is quickly approaching! It is important to remember that these storms come up quickly and can be severe.

During this time of year, it is important to prepare your home for the storms; especially if you are planning on leaving town for any amount of time.

• Make sure to trim trees so that they are away from windows and roofs. A thin tree canopy will help prevent limb breakage and uprooting.

• Inspect and clean your roof draining system including gutters and scuppers.

• Clear debris from gutters adjacent to your property to help prevent street flooding.

• Secure loose items on your property such as patio and pool furniture.

• Unplug expensive electronics such as TV’s, stereos, home entertainments centers and computers. It is also helpful to install power protection devices to prevent issues from power surges.

• If you find fallen trees on your property that are from our common area, please contact the SRCA office. Any resident trees that fall during a storm are the responsibility of the property owner. If a tree has fallen onto your property from a neighbor’s property, it is your responsibility to work with your neighbor, landscaper, or sub-association to remove the debris.

• SRCA will only move debris from our common areas around the Ranch.

Stay Safe!

Important Information about Assessments

By Ricki Stamos SRCA Bookkeeper

We’d like to once again take the opportunity to thank each of the homeowners here in Scottsdale Ranch who have paid their 2024 Annual Assessment!

By paying your annual assessment in a timely manner, you are not only ensuring that Scottsdale Ranch Community Association continues to remain in good financial standing, you are also helping to ensure that we are able to perform the many tasks and duties for which the association is responsible.

If your annual assessment has not yet been paid and you have not arranged a payment plan, a lien has been filed against your property through the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office. Lien filing/release fees have been added to your account, monthly interest continues to accrue at a rate of 12% per annum and further collection action may be necessary.

What does having a lien against your property mean to you? It means you’ve failed to pay a debt you owe. Typically, the property cannot be sold until the past due amount has been paid in full and the lien has been released. Additionally, having a lien filed against your property could affect your credit as not paying a debt can negatively affect your credit scores.

Should a homeowner’s assessments continue to be delinquent, the account may be turned over to an attorney for collection action without further notice from the association. Failure to pay these assessments could also result in the filing of a personal judgment action and the homeowner will be responsible for all attorney’s fees, document recording, and any other fees incurred to collect this debt.

If you have any questions or would like to pay your overdue 2024 annual assessment, you may contact me at rstamos@scottsdaleranch.org or (480) 860-2022 and I’ll be happy to assist you. Thank you.

HELP PREVENT DROWNINGS

The Scottsdale Fire Department is reaching out to every home pool owner with a basic reminder to check, fix and maintain their home pool in order to eliminate child drowning.

Every year, there are nearly 100 waterrelated incidents in Maricopa County alone. At least half of these incidents involve children and at least half of these events end in fatality. All drowning deaths are preventable and those that occur in your home are where your immediate action can make a difference. Home pool fencing and effective supervision can reduce these tragic drowning deaths to zero immediately.

You may complete a form on the City of Scottsdale’s and a member of the Fire Department will contact you to arrange an appointment. Please visit eservices.scottsdaleaz.gov/ez and search Fire Department / Water Safety Assessment.

Home & Landscape

Cyber Security While on Vacation Neighborhood Spotlight

Many Scottsdale residents will be heading to cooler climates for vacation. Aside from booking accommodations, packing a suitcase, and scheduling exciting excursions and leisure activities, one should also think about the importance of electronic and digital security.

When leaving for vacation many automatically think about locking the doors and windows, setting a timer on the lights, and having neighbors watch over the house. Have you ever thought about cyber security? For many, it is a necessity to travel with electronic devices, whether it be for leisure or business purposes. Here are a few things to think about that can help protect you:

• Password protect your device. In the event your device is stolen or misplaced, a password can prevent access to the device and personal information stored on it.

• Keep your devices up to date and back them up prior to travel. Update your operating system and apps to protect against malware. Backing up the device will ensure you do not lose any data in the event the device is lost.

• Use your own charger. Plugging your device into an unknown USB port can make you vulnerable to malware.

• Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi. Many Wi-Fi hotspots are not secure, and others can connect with your device without your knowledge. Disable your Wi-Fi connection when not using it, and if you must connect to a public hotspot, avoid using mobile apps that require personal or financial information.

• Regularly check your accounts and keep track of personal information. Review your bank accounts to check for fraudulent activity. If you see fraudulent activity or sensitive information (passport, driver’s license, etc.) is lost, report it immediately.

• Do not post your vacation plans or pictures on social media prior to or during vacation. Posting your location or plans to leave can provide criminals with valuable information on when to burglarize your home. Only share and post photos after your return.

Casa del Cielo Community Celebrated the Luck of the Irish

Before the arrival of the hot summer, residents of Casa del Cielo community celebrated St. Patty’s Day with a party on the lawn in March. It was cold and rainy the day before, so everyone was hoping for a little Irish luck and Arizona sunshine. As luck would have it, the next day was beautiful! About 50 residents came out to enjoy the sunshine, play a little cornhole, munch on homemade goodies, and enjoy each other’s company. Many thanks to the Irish and the CdC Social Committee for a fun time!

Mercado Corner

Social Life on the Ranch

Social Life on the Ranch

Social Life on the Ranch

Social Life on the Ranch

Social Life on the Ranch

In the Community

By Brian Hartman, #866 Scottsdale Police Department Crime Prevention Officer

Via Linda District

Summer Safety

General Safety Tips

Hydrate: Make sure to always drink plenty of water and electrolytes continuously throughout the course of the hot summer days even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you plan to spend any part of the day outside, always carry around a filled water bottle that is easily accessible.

Combat the heat: Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun’s energy. Wearing brimmed hats, utilizing an umbrella, and wearing sunscreen are also great ways to protect yourself against those pesky sun rays.

It’s that time of the year again where summer is quickly approaching, probably a little quicker than everyone is hoping for. That considered it’s time for the annual reminders that help to keep us all safe. Even though it goes unsaid, I will say it anyway, the summers here in Arizona are a bit harsh. Exposure to our extreme Arizona heat can make people seriously ill. Unchecked heat-related illnesses can quickly lead to serious health problems and in extreme cases may cause death. For that reason, it is very important to periodically check on our neighbors. Heat strokes, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps are conditions caused by overexposure to heat. For that reason, it is crucial for our residents to be aware of risk factors for heat-related illnesses as well as the symptoms of individuals who may be experiencing a heat-related illness. So let me show you how State Farm can help protect all the things that matter most –for a lot less than you think. GET TO A BETTER STATE.® CALL ME TODAY.

Slow down: Avoid strenuous activity. If doing any strenuous activity, make sure to do it during the cooler part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4am and 7am. Stay indoors as much as possible.

Babies/Toddlers: Never leave a baby or toddler unattended, especially not in a parked vehicle in the Arizona summer heat. The inside temperature of a non-running vehicle out in the summer elements can exceed that of the outside temperature.

Swimming: Maintain constant eye contact with kids in or around water, and never leave them unsupervised. Exercise other commonly known swimming safety tips.

Dogs: Make sure the ground surface is not too hot for dogs to be walking on. If it’s too hot to touch with a hand, it’s too hot for them to be walking any sort of distance on.

Vacation: If possible, have a trusted friend and/or neighbor look after your residence from time to time, to insure it does not appear vacant, and everything is running smoothly.

2024 SRCA Calendar of Events

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