DC Ranch News - June-July 2024

Savor the sizzle

As a native Arizonan, I’ve grown to embrace and appreciate the summer season.

Speaking of appreciation, DC Ranch proudly hosted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration, honoring the most dedicated residents for their invaluable contributions. Nominations poured in across five categories, recognizing individuals who generously give their time and effort to enrich the community.

From board service to neighborly assistance to policy drafting, these residents exemplify the spirit of selflessness that defines DC Ranch.

In this edition’s cover story, we shine a spotlight on the exceptional achievements of the five award recipients, whose extraordinary efforts have truly elevated the quality of life for their fellow Ranch residents.

Did you know that charitable organizations often face donation shortages during the summer months? DC Ranch Gives is on a mission to alleviate this strain by collecting toiletries,

hygiene products and cleaning supplies for Homeward Bound from June 1 to July 31. Let ’s stock their shelves and support families in need, aiming for a goal of 1,000 items. Donations can be dropped off at The Homestead Community Center during regular business hours.

As we dive into this combined summer issue of Ranch News, check out the essential summer topics like heat safety tips and summer plant care. And don’t miss a slate of fun and refreshing activities lined up, including indoor fitness classes, the ever-entertaining Comedy Night, and the highly anticipated return of Family Float Night at the McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center, promising laughter and joy for residents of all ages. Make this summer one to remember!

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

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• Sense of Community

• Environmental Stewardship

• Family

• Healthy Lifestyles

DC Ranch Community Values Living Connected

• Diversity & Inclusiveness

• Lifelong Learning

• Artistic & Cultural Opportunities

• Relationship with Larger Community

DC Ranch seamlessly connects people to the beauty of both the created environment and the natural Sonoran Desert. Residents feel a sense of community, connecting with each other in friendship and common interest. It is a thoughtfully crafted community designed with unprecedented attention to detail. DC Ranch has a distinctive governance structure with ample resources that exist to ensure a legacy of an amenity-rich and active way of life. The highest standards and a convenient north Scottsdale location establish DC Ranch as a nationally desirable place to live with an exceptional quality of life and premium home values.

Jona Davis

Deputy Executive Director, Community Council

RANCH UPDATES

Community Standard DCR-18: Rental of Property

When considering renting out your DC Ranch property, please remember that all rental property listings and advertisements must reflect a minimum residency of six months. Short-term rentals are not allowed. Owners must provide the Ranch Association with the tenant lease information for compliance and to provide tenant access to community amenities. DC Ranch team members routinely monitor short-term rental websites to ensure compliance and track for enforcement with safety of the community in mind. If you have any questions, please contact The Ranch Offices at 480.513.1500.

Safety tip for summer travelers

Residents are encouraged to complete a Vacation Notification form to alert patrol of any extended leaves. This notification will help the Community Patrol team better accommodate any visitors (e.g., delivery drivers or vendors) that may need neighborhood access while residents are away and to inspect for any suspicious activity around the house in your absence. The form can be found on the Community Patrol and Gate Access page on DCRanch.com.

Parking reminder

Please be mindful of DC Ranch parking guidelines. Residents and visitors should always park with the flow of traffic and leave enough room for an unobstructed lane of traffic. Contact Community Patrol for overnight parking permits. There is no overnight street parking for commercial vehicles, RVs, trailers or campers.

Let us know

The National Weather Service has established that monsoon season begins June 15 and ends September 30. Monsoon is the time of year when the winds shift, causing a reversal in weather patterns in the Southwest. The storms can range from blowing dust to severe thunderstorms and lightning. Often, the more severe storms begin with a “haboob,” which are extensive walls of dust that move across the Valley, and with the dust comes wind, usually followed by heavy rain. With the combination of summer heat and moisture, conditions are more likely for periodic rainfall and thunderstorms. The thunderstorms can cause microbursts, which are the result of dense, cold air from a thunderstorm hitting the ground, often with intense wind. Monsoon storms can produce dusty and hazardous conditions, wind damage and flooding. If you are

Monsoon season is here

driving and see the wall of blowing dirt, get to a safe place as soon as possible. Due to the dry conditions and minimal rainfall, the ground has a difficult time absorbing the intense rapid rainfall during the monsoons. Desert washes fill quickly and entire streets may flood.

DC Ranch landscape and maintenance crews provide storm cleanup on paths, streets and common areas where the Ranch Association is responsible. During heavy rains, residents should avoid areas where the water crosses the road per drainage plans. Please contact the Community Patrol Command Center at 480.397.9659 if there is an issue in an area the Association needs to address.

For more information on monsoon safety and to sign-up for emergency alerts from Maricopa County, visit ready.maricopa.gov.

Do you see a maintenance issue that needs attention, or have a question or comment to share? Use the Let Us Know form on DCRanch.com to provide feedback and a DC Ranch team member will respond within two business days. If the issue is urgent or after regular business hours, please call the Community Patrol Command Center at 480.397.9659.

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.

The Homestead Community Center

Yoga Basics

Tuesday and Thursday | 9 to 10 a.m.

The Homestead Community Center

Pickleball Club

Sunday | 7 to 10 a.m.

Desert Camp Courts

Summer Saturday

Saturday, June 1 | 10 to 11 a.m.

The Homestead Veranda

All ages | Free

Celebrate summer with fun free activities on the veranda! This event includes all things bubbles. Create bubble art, play with big and small bubbles and enjoy a variety of “bubble” snacks. The splash pad will be on to cool off. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Comedy Night: Mind Games

Friday, June 14 | 6:30 to 8 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | $23

Experience a night of comedy like no other. An expert mentalist will lead volunteers through a series of hilarious scenarios, all drawn from their subconscious minds. Light bites and beverages included. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. to mingle with the performer.

Family Float Night

Friday, June 21 | 6 to 8 p.m.

Meet at McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center

All ages | $7

Dive into fun for an exclusive DC Ranch family night at the nearby McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center. Play games, jump off the high dive, ride the water slide or float on the lazy river. No outside floaties permitted. Pizza, soda and water provided.

Women's Club:

Happy Hour at Isabella's Kitchen

Thursday, June 13 | 5 to 7 p.m.

Meet at Isabella's Kitchen Ages 21+ | RSVP

Mingle with other DC Ranch women and enjoy the beautiful view from the outdoor patio at Isabella’s Kitchen. Appetizers provided, drinks are the responsibility of each resident.

Tropical Tuesday

Tuesday, June 11 and 25; July 9 | 2 to 3 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center

All ages | Free

Put on a Hawaiian shirt and join neighbors for a tropical escape indoors! Families are invited to

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: Happy Hour at Quill Creek

Thursday, July 11 | 5 to 7 p.m.

Meet at Quill Creek Cafe

Ages 21+ | RSVP

Sip on a refreshing cocktail while enjoying serene golf course views with other ladies from the Ranch. Appetizers provided, drinks are the responsibility of each resident. The café is located in Grayhawk Golf Club.

Medieval Times Field Trip

Friday, July 19 | 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Departs from The Homestead Community Center Ages 7-15 | $34

Kids will embark on a thrilling journey where knights on horseback clash in epic battles and the grandeur of the Middle Ages come to life. Ticket includes a three-course meal and transportation.

Summer Saturday

Saturday, July 20 | 10 to 11 a.m.

The Homestead Veranda

All ages | Free

Celebrate summer with fun free activities on the veranda! Residents are invited to create their own tie dye item and make a decadent ice cream sundae. Please bring a t-shirt, pillowcase, bag, socks or anything white; all other supplies are provided. The splash pad will be on to cool off. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Bubbles & Boards

Sunday, July 28 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center Ages 21+ | $34

Take your entertaining up a notch with this culinary class. Residents will have the opportunity to explore different sparkling wines, create their own charcuterie board and learn what pairings elevate the art of a meal. All materials provided.

By Kat Thatcher | Resident contributor

1 Italian Leonardo da Vinci tops the list, not with Mona Lisa which has been on display since 1797, but with Salvator Mundi, which was identified as his during restoration work in 2011. The painting was sold by Russian billionaire Dmitry Rybolovlev in 2017 for $450.3M (adjusted for inflation approximately $480M). He purchased the painting for $127M shortly before and flipped the artwork for an astounding $300M+ profit.

2 Interchange by Dutch abstract expressionist Willem de Kooning sold in 2015 for $300M (approximately $325M). It had been owned by American businessman and art collector Kenneth C. Griffin.

The world’s 10 most expensive paintings ever sold

3 The Card Players by French impressionist Paul Cézanne sold by the Qatar Royal Family in 2011 for $250M (approximately $305M).

4 Nafea Faa Ipoipo (When Will You Marry?) by Paul Gauguin was also sold by the Qatar Royal Family, in 2015, for $210M (approximately $230M). Introduced by fellow artist Pissarro, Cézanne and Gauguin were friends for 30 years.

5 American abstract impressionist Jackson Pollock comes in at number five with 17A , also sold by Ken Griffin in 2015 for $200M (approximately $215M).

Pollock only painted in his famous drip technique for 4 years of his life, abandoning that style abruptly in 1951, when his drinking worsened.

6 No. 6 (Violet, Green and Red) by Latvian colorfield painter Mark Rothko was also sold by Dmitry Rybolovlev in 2014 for $186M (approximately $205M).

7 Wasserschlangen II (Water Serpents II) by Austrian symbolist painter Gustav Klimt sold by Yves Bouvier in 2015 for $170M (approximately $185M). Klimt was the most prominent of the Vienna Secessionists.

8 Woman III by Willem de Kooning sold by Steven A. Cohen in 2006 for $160M (approximately $210M).

9 Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer II by Gustav Klimt sold by Oprah Winfrey in 2006 for $150M (approximately $195M).

10 Surprisingly, coming in last is Pablo Picasso’s Les Femmes d'Alger (Version “O”) sold by Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani in 2015 for $179.4M (approximately $195M).

Follow Thatcher on Instagram @TheArtfulTourist.

NEWS WORTHY

New Principal at Copper Ridge School

The Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Governing Board approved the appointment of Brittany Walker to lead Copper Ridge School in the 2024-2025 school year.

Walker comes to SUSD from the local BASIS and Legacy public charter school organizations. Most recently, she was the Professional Development Coordinator for the 23-school Arizona BASIS Ed group and, prior to that, she served as Head of School at BASIS Scottsdale Primary School.

Honored to join the Copper Ridge community, Walker said her goal as the school’s new principal is to continue, yet enhance, the school’s culture of academic excellence, student-focused mindset and strong community. “My mission is to empower our teachers, staff, and students to reach the highest level of excellence in all areas,” she said.

Junior Camp Programs

skill building exercises. And for kids who want to try a little of everything, Junior Camp offers a blend of traditional activities that capture the fun and adventure of summer. Visit ccdcranch.com for more information.

Progress on the Desert Camp Site Improvement Project

This spring, Haydon Building Corp. cleared and leveled the ground for four new pickleball courts. They installed posts and fencing and poured retaining walls and the post-tensioned concrete courts. The innovative technique involves laying plastic-covered steel cables in a grid pattern, encasing the area in concrete and then locking those cables into place once the concrete sets. The result is durable courts that enhance gameplay and aesthetics. LED lighting, shading, furniture and sound dampening Acoustifence will be installed for the finishing touches.

Now in its 25th year, The Country Club at DC Ranch offers three separate summer camp programs tailored to different ages and interests. Camps are available for members of the Club and their guests now through June 28. Junior Golf teaches campers the fundamentals of the game, how to perfect their swing and tee off with newfound friends. For those who thrive on the court, Junior Tennis allows campers to engage in friendly competition and

In addition to the work by Haydon Building Corp., the Community Council has identified reserve projects to complete while the center is already under construction. Both pools were renovated, including resurfacing the Pebbletech, retiling, replacing lights and repairing the Kool Deck. Outdoor furniture for the north and south pool patios will be replaced and enhanced to offer residents a variety of seating options for lounging and relaxing once the center reopens. The existing tennis courts will get a major refresh this summer with new LED lights, chain link fence, windscreens and court resurfacing.

For more information on the project, visit DCRanch.com/DCSIP.

FRATANTONI

THE PREMIER NEW BUILD, REMODEL & INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM FOR DC RANCH & SILVERLEAF

Junior Golf

By Devin Haggerty | Community Council

The DC Ranch Community Council and Ranch Association rely on the generous volunteer support of residents and local businesses to help make the community function successfully. Each year, nominations are submitted for Volunteer of the Year awards by residents and the DC Ranch team. These outstanding individuals were proudly honored at the annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration in April.

Leadership Award | Natalie Ingram

Natalie Ingram has been recognized and honored for her exceptional community service during her tenure on the DC Ranch Community Council Board of Directors. She joined as a board director in 2018, totaling six years of dedicated service. Natalie has displayed unwavering commitment, professionalism, and thoughtfulness in her role as a board director. Her impact has been profound, leaving a lasting legacy of service for DC Ranch. A few of many notable contributions include holding dual officer positions as Treasurer and Vice-President, establishing the Finance Committee for the Community Council, fostering a culture of improvement, and playing a pivotal role in recruitment and leadership continuity. She has left a profound impact on the community.

Good Neighbor Award | George Sevilis

George Sevilis received the Good Neighbor Award for his exceptional kindness, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his neighbors. From his initial friendly overtures of monitoring over neighbor’s homes to his continuous efforts in maintaining common areas and assisting with various repairs, George exemplifies the essence of a good neighbor. As president of his neighborhood sub-association, his countless selfless acts demonstrate his outstanding character and commitment to fostering a supportive and thriving environment. One of his neighbors stated, “I am fortunate to live in a community with many other good folks, but George truly is outstanding.”

Philanthropy Award | Edie Smith

Edie Smith’s compassionate heart and commitment to making a difference shine through her volunteer efforts at Hope Women’s Center. She not only leads health classes for vulnerable women, she imparts essential knowledge and fosters a supportive environment where women can grow emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Edie’s involvement in community service extends beyond the center, as evidenced by her active participation in DC Ranch Gives service projects, where her enthusiasm inspires others to join in giving back. Her gratitude for living in a caring community reflects her deep-seated belief in the power of compassion and service to uplift others, making her a true beacon of philanthropy.

Youth Award | Cooper Ingram and Aniston Rusch

The evolution Recognizing and community spirit

Cooper Ingram takes after his mom, Leadership recipient Natalie Ingram, and is one of two teens receiving Youth Volunteer of the Year Awards. Cooper significantly contributes to the success and enjoyment of DC Ranch signature events, Spooky Carnival and Eggstravaganza, joyfully assisting with event preparations and activities. One nominator wrote, “I am confident that his contributions have not only enriched the DC Ranch community but have also inspired others to engage in meaningful volunteer work.”

Aniston Rusch shines brightly with her leadership, dedication to others, and longstanding commitment to the Miracle League of Arizona since 2014, making her the second recipient of the Youth Volunteer of the Year Award. As a devoted “buddy” to her older brother and other players with special needs,

Natalie Ingram

George Sevillis

Edie Smith

evolution of Recognizing heart community spirit

Aniston embodies compassion and dedication on and off the baseball field. Her weekly support, characterized by encouragement, high fives, and prompts, brings immense joy to all, providing a sense of belonging and fun. Aniston’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and her heartfelt contributions exemplify the spirit of volunteerism.

Community Partner Award | Lynda Boepple, Copper Ridge Elementary Lynda Boepple’s invaluable contributions as the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) teacher at Copper Ridge have earned her the Community Partner award. She played an instrumental role in mobilizing teen volunteers for DC Ranch’s signature events, Eggstravaganza and Spooky Carnival. Lynda’s unwavering dedication and support significantly contributed to the success and vibrancy of these cherished community gatherings.

Please applaud all 2024 Volunteer of the Year nominees

• Terry and Laura Craig, Jalapeno Inferno

• Daniele Driscoll

• Lynn Gitomer

• Phil Geiger

• Sujit Itty

• Officer Katzaroff, Scottsdale Police Dept.

• Elizabeth Kepuraitis

• Ethan Knowlden

• Jeanne Leckie

• Chris Mullen

• Bob Nathan

• Nicole Richard

• Angie Rusch

• Dan Steiber

• Dave Underwood

As part of a giving back activity, bicycles were assembled for children after the Volunteer Appreciation Celebration. The bicycles and helmets were donated to Arizona Cancer Foundation for Children, a local organization that serves pediatric cancer patients and their families.

Cooper Ingram

Aniston Rusch

Lynda Boepple

By Alexandra Duemer | Community Council

MD Breast Imaging was born out of Dr. Kevin Kearney’s desire to put the patient first. With nearly three decades of radiology experience, it has been his dream to open a breast cancer screening facility that provides patients with same day results in a setting that is both comfortable and patient focused. In March, that dream came true when their doors opened in DC Ranch Crossing.

Dr. Kearney has devoted his career to helping advance women’s healthcare in the field of breast imaging. He is passionate about providing accountability to the patient and is devoted to putting the quality of their experience first. “We wanted more of a spa feel in our office to help relax women,” says Kearney. The décor is chic and clean, reminiscent of old Hollywood with images of famous leading ladies. All of the little details have been thought of, from plush robes in the locker room to the soothing sounds of a water fountain in the waiting room and even a side entrance for family members to attend a private conversation with the doctor. Mammograms are a stressful appointment for most women. It can often take several weeks to get scheduled and then multiple days to get the results. Patients here have one technician who walks them through the appointment and provides results that same day, making the process easy and personalized. Breast ultrasounds are offered for additional screening and are often recommended in combination with a mammogram. Ultrasounds are a painless study capable of detecting cancers that cannot be identified by mammography and physical exams alone.

MD Breast Imaging also offers bone density screening and full body composition testing. The state-of-the-art technology provides patients with percentage body fat, total lean mass, visceral fat and limb comparison for muscle imbalance detection. This information is critical for accurately assessing the state of a person’s health and defining successful training programs. Men have a separate locker room and waiting area for these services.

Dr. Kevin Kearney has served as the Director of Breast Cancer Imaging at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, National Director of Breast Imaging for a large multistate imaging company and is currently a part time Assistant Professor of Breast Cancer Imaging at the Creighton University of School of Medicine. He is also an investigator in the TMIST research trial which will help researchers learn about the best way to find breast cancer in women who have no symptoms. Kearney advocates that early detection is the key to having a successful treatment.

Though insurance is not accepted, ask about special pricing and feel at ease in the care of Dr. Kearney and his staff.

By Morgan Domaracki | The Village Health Club & Spa

Lisa Owens, longtime Membership Director for the DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa, has retired, ending a successful second career in the health and fitness industry. But fear not, Owens will still be a familiar face to DC Ranch members as she continues to serve as an Aquafit instructor, helping people of all ages stay in shape with water-based exercises and aerobics.

“I’ve been teaching Aquafit classes for years, ever since I discovered how effective it was for recovering from knee replacement surgery,” Owens says. “We all know that exercising is the key to staying healthy, and I’m hoping to be a role model, showing that you can stay active as you age, even after retirement.”

Originally moving to the Valley in 1998, Owens left her career in sales to be a stay-at-home mom to her then 3- and 5-year-old children. But as they grew, she transitioned back to working part-time at the Valley of Sun Jewish Community Center in Scottsdale. After working her way up to Sales Director, Owens applied for a position with the Village Health Clubs and, after a brief stint at the Gainey Ranch location, landed in DC Ranch as the Membership Director.

Here in DC Ranch, Owens takes pride in the Sunset Tour partnership she helped launch with the Community Council, and also the outreach to local realtors to help bring new residents into the DC Ranch Village family. “At the end of the day, we’re a neighborhood club.

We’re not located along some major highway, so our focus has always been building and sustaining a solid and family-like sense of community.”

Speaking of family, Owens is also excited about all the Village’s fun new programming coming this summer, including the expanded indoor/ outdoor pickleball programming. Plus, all the fun options for kiddos.

“Swimming is always very popular for all ages, but specifically for our junior members we have so much going on, from basketball, tennis, squash and pickleball clinics, to junior strength training, which is a certification program for kids ages 10-13 to use a wide variety of workout equipment on their own.”

“At

the end of the day, we’re a neighborhood club. We’re not located along some major highway, so our focus has always been building and sustaining a solid and family-like sense of community.”

As for her own children, they have long since grown which is why Owens’ post-retirement plans include lots of travel. “I’m already looking forward to taking lots of trips to California to see our grandchildren, and my husband is excited to travel to Thailand, Japan and Korea. But first, I just want to relax… after my Aquafit class that is.”

Longtime DC Ranch Village Director retires

As summer heats up in Scottsdale, it’s crucial to prioritize plant care and wildfire prevention. These tips provide guidance for nurturing your summer landscape while safeguarding your home against the threat of wildfires.

Tips for wildfire prevention

By Jeff Rons | Ranch Association

STAY SAFE

Living in the wildland-urban interface of DC Ranch poses unique challenges when it comes to wildfire prevention, and these are some proactive steps every homeowner should take.

Create defensible space Defensible space refers to the area between your home and an oncoming wildfire where the vegetation has been modified to reduce the wildfire threat and to provide an opportunity for structural protection without risking homeowner or firefighter lives. It’s important to create a well maintained, live vegetation zone to prevent damage to structures in case of wildland fires. Defensible space acts as a fire break and should contain only small plants, cacti, and trees to eliminate a continuous path of flammable materials leading to inhabited structures. Remove all dry ladder fuel grasses and weeds, raise tree canopies to a height of 4 feet, and remove all invasive plants. The Ranch Association is participating in Firewise maintenance to create defensible space in common areas.

Keep roof and gutters clear Clean gutters and roof valleys regularly to remove accumulated tree debris such as leaves and small twigs. Clogged gutters can become fuel for embers, potentially igniting the roof or surrounding vegetation.

Store firewood safely Keep firewood stored off the ground and away from building walls and plant material.

Have an evacuation plan Identify multiple evacuation routes and establish a meeting point for your family outside the evacuation zone. Keep important documents, medications, and emergency supplies readily accessible.

Summer plant care

Water wisely In the desert climate, water conservation is key. Deep, infrequent watering is more effective than frequent shallow watering. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and ensure optimal absorption by the soil. It’s important to have your landscaper inspect your drip system for proper operation and to move drip emitters outward away from the base of trees and out below the dripline of the tree canopy as it matures.

Choose drought-tolerant plants Selecting approved native and drought-resistant plants is essential for a thriving landscape in DC Ranch. These plants are adapted to arid conditions and require minimal water once established. Popular choices include Desert Marigold, Pink Fairy Duster, Bursage and Jojoba.

Prune selectively Keep your plants healthy and tidy by pruning dead or damaged branches regularly. Selective pruning promotes airflow and reduces the risk of disease and pest infestations. Remove any dead or wilted foliage to maintain the overall natural appearance of your landscape.

Provide shade and shelter Shield sensitive plants from the intense summer sun by planting them where they’ll receive shade and shelter. Consider planting taller species to create natural shade. Grouping plants together can also provide mutual protection from the sun and summer winds.

Monitor soil moisture Adjust the watering schedule based on the specific needs of your plants and the prevailing weather conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other health issues.

Fertilize sparingly While fertilization is important for plant health, especially in nutrient-poor soils, it’s essential to fertilize sparingly during the summer. Excessive fertilization can result in rapid growth, making plants more susceptible to heat stress. It’s not necessaryto fertilize Palo Verde, Ironwood or Mesquite trees because they are a “nitrogen fixing” species.

Advice for what matters most, when you need it most

Congratulations to Jason Weese for being named to the Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” 2024 list, published on March 8, 2024. Rankings based on data as of September 30, 2023.

Weese Harris Hanover Group Jason Weese, CIMA®, CFP ® Managing Director Private Wealth Advisor 425.990.2212 jason.weese@ml.com

Merrill Private Wealth Management 10400 Northeast 4th Street Suite 2500 Bellevue, WA 98004

Supervisory Office 555 California Street 18th Floor San Francisco, CA 94104

844.990.2208

pwa.ml.com/weeseharrishanovergroup

HEALTHY LIVING

By Maricopa County

Drinking plenty of water and using sunscreen is a great start, but there’s so much more to keeping yourself, family and pets safe in the extreme Arizona heat. An Excessive Heat Warning is issued by the National Weather Service when there is a High or Very High Heat Risk. During periods of excessive heat, it is best to remain indoors.

Additional recommendations:

• Limit exposure to the sun.

• Drink water and avoid drinks with caffeine.

• Spend the warmest part of the day inside when possible.

• Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

• Avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.

• Avoid extreme temperature changes.

• Check your car—NEVER leave children or pets in the car.

Here are the signs of heat-related illness and how to respond:

HEAT CRAMPS

Signs: Muscle pains or spasms in the stomach, arms or legs.

Actions: Go to a cooler location. Remove excess clothing. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if cramps last more than an hour.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Signs: Heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting or fainting.

Actions: Go to an airconditioned place and lie down. Loosen or remove clothing. Take a cool bath. Take sips of cool sports drinks with salt and sugar. Get medical help if symptoms get worse or last more than an hour.

HEAT STROKE

Signs: Extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees);

red, hot and dry skin with no sweat; rapid, strong pulse; dizziness; confusion; or unconsciousness.

Actions: Call 911 or get the person to a hospital immediately. Cool down with whatever methods are available until medical help arrives.

FOR THE PET SET

Signs of heat emergency:

• Heavy panting/signs of difficulty breathing.

• Tongue/gums appear bright red with thick saliva.

• Skin elasticity (when pinched, doesn't snap back).

• Becomes unsteady, lethargic, unwilling to move.

• Elevated body temperature (104 degrees and up).

• Vomiting or diarrhea.

Signs of heat stroke:

• Lips/membranes become blue/gray.

• Rapid on-set collapse, seizure, unconsciousness. What to do

• Immediately cool your dog down with water. Put cool packs to groin area, neck and chest.

• Remove from heat immediately.

• Get to a veterinarian. (The consequences of heat emergency can mean kidney failure, heart irregularities, other system failures and even death.)

For more information on staying safe in the extreme heat visit www.maricopa.gov.

By Sydney Ritter

Scottsdale Public Art’s newest exhibition, “Flirting with the Desert,” runs through July 1 at Scottsdale Civic Center Library and features the artwork of Koryn Woodward Wasson.

Arizona is known for sprawling mountains and mesas, a variety of cacti—including the famous Saguaro cactus that only grows in the Sonoran Desert—and the Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, but for Arizona-based artist Koryn Woodward Wasson, she sees Arizona in the bright, bold colors of the state’s flowers.

“I’ve taken it back to this idea of just sort of like falling in love with the plants,” Woodward Wasson said. “I have a crush on the desert, and I’m always drawing and thinking about it. The way I feel about the desert is similar to having a crush, just the way your heart flutters.”

Arizona desert in new exhibition

Wendy Raisanen, curator of collections and exhibitions for Scottsdale Public Art, has had the pleasure of working with Woodward Wasson through these past exhibitions and is familiar with the artist’s love for the desert, specifically the desert in the spring when flowers are in bloom.

“Her joy of and embracing of the desert’s beauty and life has a lot to do with healing and turning your sorrow into joy through art,” Raisanen said. “She shines a light on the stuff that's around us every single day and that maybe we are just not paying attention to. Her joy and enthusiasm for the flowers, birds, bats and insects will be fully felt.”

Woodward Wasson was born and raised in Phoenix. Her father passed in 2018, and Wasson leaned into making art as a journal to process her grief, exhibiting the artwork in a show a year after his death. There was a story attached to every artwork, and she realized that people could access her work better if she spoke about it both artistically and linguistically.

“Some people access the visual work no problem,” she said. “It’s art, it speaks for itself. It's a universal language, but other people think that art’s not for them or that they don’t understand it, and so the written story and journaling portions that went with those pieces created a bridge between me and family members, friends, people who are outside of the art community.”

The exhibition includes 12 watercolor paintings; 3D felt sculptures of cacti, flowers and vignettes; large-scale murals; a video of the artist at work and a desk showcasing sketches from Woodward Wasson.

“I want people to leave with that feeling of wonder,” Woodward Wasson said. “I want you to see the cactus bloom in the parking lot at the grocery store; walk over and really look at it. Give it your time. And on a more profound and universal note, I want the work to lighten the grief we carry with us and let us experience the everyday attractions of living in these harsh conditions.”

For more information visit scottsdalelibrary.org.

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