DC Ranch News - July/August 2015

Ranch News

A publication of the DC Ranch Communit y Council

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Fostering a good neighbor approach

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Plunge into the Back to School Bash

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Stop and smell roses at Ethel’s Garden

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Unwind and savor ‘La Dolce Vita’ at Ciao Grazie

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Have a safe summer I hope you had a wonderful Fourth of July weekend.

This edition of Ranch News is a joint issue, combining the summer months of July and August.

Not surprisingly, things heat up here in the summer and Desert Camp pool has the answer: Saturday “Summer Sizzles” start July 11. The pool is a perfect place to cool off and exercise all summer long.

Ranch News is a not-for-profit newspaper published monthly by the DC Ranch Community Council to share timely and relevant information with residents.

The publication seeks to build community by connecting neighbors through stories and pictures and to offer a product valuable to advertisers.

Ranch News celebrates and perpetuates the values of the DC Ranch community.

Mission:

For the first time, the McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center will be the venue for the annual Back to School Bash in August. Students and parents are invited to enjoy the lazy river and water slide. The event will host a book drive to support Valley of the Sun United Way’s early childhood literacy initiative—please bring a book or two and share your love of reading. Children’s books for donation can also be dropped off at both community centers from August until Thanksgiving.

Community Engagement Director Jona Davis

The DC Ranch Community Council facilitates a connected and welcoming community that instills pride and a sense of belonging in each DC Ranch resident.

In this issue, you’ll enjoy hearing from Copper Ridge School principal Dr. Michelle Otstot. The school, located in DC Ranch, has an impressive vision: “to foster critical problem solving, technology infusion, and high academic and behavior standards to ensure student success in a competitive, global society.”

Senior Communications Manager Jeremy Stevens Communications Coordinators Elizabeth Dankert Terri Raimondi Catha Smith

The Community Council is responsible

for visioning and facilitating initiatives that enhance residents’ quality of life, serve collective interests and promote the DC Ranch brand. The Council provides recreational, educational, cultural and volunteer opportunities that reflect community values; operates and programs DC Ranch amenities; creates outlets for communication; and defines Community-Wide Standards.

Ethel’s Garden, nestled in Silverleaf village, is the featured amenity this month.

I encourage you to take an early morning stroll and enjoy the park’s ambiance.

DC Ranch has a fascinating history and carrying on Ethel Marley’s love of roses is a point of pride for the landscape crew.

480.585.1641 communications.team@dcranchinc.com dcranch.com

The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy’s volunteer patrol is preparing its trails for monsoons while at the same time cyclists prepare for the Tour de Scottsdale, which raises funds for Preserve maintenance and research. The Tour Kickoff party is July 30.

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Many residents have summer vacations coming up. If you are one of them, have a safe and enjoyable trip!

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DC Ranch: Community values •

EDUCATION DC Ranch believes in continuous learning and personal growth as a lifelong endeavor, expressed through involvement in neighborhood schools, community programs and educational institutions.

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Ranch Updates

Residents help define the DC Ranch role model

BY TERRI RAIMONDI | COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

B

e a “good neighbor.” What does the phrase mean? For many, the term conjures up images of someone who is helpful, friendly, dependable and conscientious. For some, it might mean a resident engaged in local projects or community government. No matter how the role is perceived, most people aspire to it. Good neighbors are integral to the community, providing selfguidance to do the right thing for the benefit of all—putting “we” before “me.”

Pictured left to right, Safety and Security Subcommittee co-chairs John Henrickson and Susan Grace and Neighborhood Voting Members Sharon Devine, Bud Kern and Ed Swanson serve on the subcommittee, along with (not pictured) NVMs Philip Geiger, Lucy Peterson, Marla Walberg, Stuart Wolkoff and resident Wendy Tippett.

The residents who serve on the Ranch Association Safety and Security Subcommittee believe that the good neighbor approach will work to help ensure that DC Ranch is and continues to be a safe and beautiful place to live. The volunteer advisory group has been busy researching how the community should handle occasional problems that arise, beginning with the top three items identified in the recent resident survey: speeding, off-leash dogs and pet waste. In response, the Ranch Association has lowered speed limits and installed electronic speed signs, additional doggy stations and pet rule signs in parks.

chance to be that "good neighbor," in case they've overlooked something. Use progressive enforcement, if needed, to achieve consistency in the community.

The subcommittee also reviewed the policy guidelines of several similar master-planned communities to find out what worked and what didn’t. The lessons learned: adopt a gradual approach and communicate clearly with residents about standards and policies. Help them understand what needs to be done. Give residents the

The subcommittee will continue working with the Ranch Association and Community Council boards and legal counsel this fall to finalize its recommendations. An easy-to-read standards publication will be mailed to residents. Additional details on the process will be posted on DCRanch.com, including opportunities for community input.

Strong communities depend on good neighbors; we’re all in it together.

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Monthly Planner The following is a list of events and activities at DC Ranch in July and August. Some activities and events may have admission fees.

Please see DCRanch.com for more information and an up-to-date calendar of activities.

DC Ranch Women’s Club Happy Hours Thursday, July 9 | 5 to 7 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center Thursday, Aug. 13 | 5 to 7 p.m.

The Living Room on Market Street 480.342.7178

Back to School Bash Saturday, Aug. 8 | 6 to 9 p.m.

McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center 15525 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy.

Register on DCRanch.com by Aug. 7 Say farewell to summer and greet the new school year with the biggest Back to School Bash ever!

We’re headed to McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center for a fantastic summer send-off. Parents and kids will have exclusive access to the leisure pool, lazy river, Party Island and water slide. Pizza, drinks and cupcakes will be provided, along with a DJ and games for all.

ADULT SOCIAL CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

CHILD, YOUTH AND TEEN ACTIVITIES AquaSafe Swim Team Practice Wed and Fri | 6 to 7 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center Pool

Mahjong Mondays | 12:30 to 4 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center 480.342.7178 Duplicate Bridge Tuesdays | 1 to 4 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center Please call Gerrie Hinson at 480.585.4699 to RSVP

Summer Sizzles Saturday, July 11, 18, & 25, Aug. 1 | 1 to 3 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center Pool Looking for a place to beat the heat this summer?

The pool at Desert Camp is the place to be. Bring your towels, swim suits, and sunscreen. Complimentary non-alcoholic frozen drinks, snacks, family activities, and great music will be provided by the Community Council. Many thanks to Grimaldi’s Pizzeria for providing volunteers to help at Summer Sizzles and the Dive-In Movies in June.

Social Bridge Wednesdays | 12:30 to 4 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center 480.342.7178

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Shallow Water Fitness Mon and Wed | 5 to 6 p.m.

Wed and Sat | 9 to 10 a.m.

Desert Camp Community Center Pool 480.342.7178

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Theatre Camp: Clowning Around Tues to Fri | July 7 to 10; Ages 5 and older: 9 a.m. to Noon; The Homestead Community Center 480.342.7178

FITNESS ACTIVITIES Pickleball Open Play Tues and Sat | 9 to 11 a.m.

Desert Camp Community Center 480.538.3585 Yoga Tues and Thurs | 9 to 10 a.m.

Desert Camp Community Center 480.342.7178

Workshops for Youth and Families Pathfinder (ages 9 to 12) Sun to Fri | July 12 to 17; Sun 3 to 6 p.m.; Mon to Fri 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Community-Wide Standards Meetings How do we keep DC Ranch beautiful? The Community Council and Ranch Association are refining and simplifying Community-Wide Standards intended to maintain DC Ranch as one of the country’s most desirable communities. Standards provide residents with a benchmark that the exterior of their home and landscaping should reflect. Six meetings are scheduled to help educate residents about the standards and answer questions about specific neighborhoods and/or properties. To accommodate residents’ schedules, the meetings will span from June 2015 to January 2016. Three meetings will cover general standards and three will cover landscape standards. Residents should plan to attend one of each: Landscape Standards General Standards Saturday, July 11 | 9 to 10 a.m.

Monday, Sept. 14 | 6 to 7 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center The Homestead Community Center

The Journey (ages 15 to 19) Sun to Fri | July 19 to 24; Sun 3 to 6 p.m.; Mon to Thurs 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fri 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center 480.245.9724 DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa Fitness Camps Mon to Fri | Through July 31 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa 480.515.4050 Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr. Auditions See page 8 for details COMMUNITY EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Trailblazer Breakfast Thursdays | 8 to 10 a.m.

Desert Camp Community Center 480.342.7178

By the Numbers: School Days

Garden Hours with Tyler Storey Wednesday, July 8 | 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 15 | 9 to 11 a.m.

The Community Garden 480.538.3582 Tour de Scottsdale Kickoff Party Thursday, July 30 | 5 to 7 p.m.

FASTER Cycling, 16414 N. 91st St, Suite 103 480.538.3540 COMMUNITY MEETINGS Community Council Board of Directors Thursday, July 23 | 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Desert Camp Community Center 480.513.1500 Ranch Association Board of Directors Monday, Aug. 10 | 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Sept. 1 | 6 to 7:30 p.m.

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Fall theatre production will rock the house

S

o much fun they won’t even know they are learning—that’s how people describe the energetic musical “Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr.,” the fall production at The Homestead Playhouse. Based on ® the Emmy Award-winning educational cartoon series of the 1970s, this fun musical delivers catchy tunes and songs that cleverly incorporate lessons on grammar, math, history, civics and science.

With songs that are lively and easy to learn, the play is a big hit among actors and audiences alike.

The play follows Tom, a new teacher who is nervous about the first day of school. Characters representing parts of his personality come to life to help his students learn using music and imagination.

Memorable songs include “Conjunction Junction,” “Just a Bill,” “Unpack Your Adjectives,” and “Three is a Magic Number.” The original Schoolhouse Rock series ran on ABC-TV on Saturday

mornings from 1973 to 1985, with a mid-90s revival and new episodes—if you grew up in those years, the songs will strike a chord of nostalgia. The memorable tunes are fun for the new generation, too!

About Auditions Audition signups begin July 27 on DCRanch.com.

An audition workshop on Aug. 12 will help actors learn how to prepare for the audition process.

Open auditions for residents and community members ages eight and older will be held at The Homestead Community Center from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 18 and Thursday, Aug. 20. The Playhouse will offer an “Opening Act” performance for

children who prefer a less time-intensive performance alternative or are not cast in the play.

The Playhouse will present an original adaptation of “The Jungle Book” in the spring.

For more information, visit DCRanch.com or Important Dates contact Arts and Theatre Audition dates: Aug. 18 and 20 Coordinator Molly Kurtz Performance dates: Nov. 19-22 Director: Lindsay McEuen at 480.538.3542.

Musical Director: Kira Rugen Choreographer: Erin Nielson Ages: 8 and older

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Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm Saturday 10am to 4pm and By Appointment

Bitten by the theatre bug

H

BY CATHA SMITH | COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR

ow do you get to Broadway?

Practice, practice, practice.

Kate Godfrey has been working her way towards Broadway, one step at a time, starting with her first role as a dancing fork in The Homestead Playhouse’s production of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast Jr.” three years ago.

New York City last summer in intensive voice, acting and dance sessions with the Broadway Artist Alliance. Those experiences, plus several Big Apple auditions, opened the door for her latest role as the

“Being cast as Matilda, I feel like I have grown so much as an actress, singer and dancer. I can’t wait for my instructors in New York this summer to see how much I have learned from last year," Kate commented.

The first goal of the 11-year-old DC Ranch resident is to accomplish the “triple threat” of theatre: to act, sing and dance equally well. That means a lot of training with vocal coaches, acting workshops, dance lessons and taking on roles, both small and large, to develop her acting skills. Plus piano and violin lessons. And going to Copper Ridge School, where she just finished the 5th grade.

Godfrey has been in six Playhouse shows and spent two weeks in

Resident Kate Godfrey starred as the title character in DC Dance AZ’s production of “Matilda.”

lead in DC Dance AZ’s adaptation of “Matilda” in June. Led by Artistic Director Trisha Folk, the performance was designed to help develop students for the professional stage.

When you hear Kate sing, the first thought is “Wow, does she have some pipes!” When your life dream is to make it big in theatre, that’s a good way to start. And, like her character in “Matilda,” Kate has the imagination, drive and positive attitude to pay her dues and make some magic happen.

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Copper Ridge School blazing the trails into 2015-2016 Upcoming school year filled with innovation and enrichment

BY DR. MICHELLE OTSTOT | COPPER RIDGE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

The students at Copper Ridge School have much to look forward to in the upcoming school year. In 2015-16, several key educational frameworks and systems of support will be enhanced to forge innovative instructional practices in our Pre-K to 8th grade classrooms including STEM, Intervention and Enrichment Blocks, and Bring Your Own Technology.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) At the first annual STEM Showcase in May, Copper Ridge students in all grades demonstrated their understanding of integrated applications of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Teachers and administrators at Copper Ridge are honored to be part

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Students designed, produced and tested science fair projects at Copper Ridge, presenting their results in May at the first annual STEM Showcase. The Showcase gave students a chance to create hands-on demonstrations about topics in science, technology, engineering and math.

of the APS STEM Focus Schools of the Future grant, in partnership with Northern Arizona University.

The training and resources provided through this partnership will continue to support new interdisciplinary studies related to real world problems, and will enhance our lesson design and delivery to ensure our students are future ready. In 20152016, students in all grades will engage in student-driven inquirybased activities; they will design investigations, collect and analyze data, and use evidence to explain and justify their answers to scientific questions and real world issues.

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Intervention and Enrichment Blocks (I/E Blocks)

al support aides will collaborate to assess, analyze and create instruction to meet the needs of all students.

Increasing the academic potential of all learners is the goal of our instructional practices at Copper Ridge. New to the 2015-2016 school year will be a system of supports— I/E Blocks—that allow students to benefit from differentiated instruction. Enrichment offers enhanced depth and complexity for students who crave more challenge; intervention provides additional support through targeted instruction for remediation. Copper Ridge classroom teachers, specialists and instruction-

Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) As we enter year four of BYOT at Copper Ridge, we are further refining our instructional strategies to develop our students’ informational skills and content knowledge using written and digital media. Copper Ridge students will use both studentowned mobile devices and schoolowned laptops to master basic operational, navigational and production skills. They will interact with websites and apps to evaluate

Plunge into digital text, submit assignments, collaborate in teams, and demonstrate understanding of content, as well as apply new knowledge through creative projects.

Blazing the Trails Look for Copper Ridge teachers and staff to educate innovate thinkers during the 2015-2016 school year.

As our vision states, we will “foster critical problem solving, technology infusion, and high academic and behavior standards to ensure student success in a competitive, global society.” Copper Ridge students will be engaged in a collaborative and empowering learning environment—blazing the trails for personal success.

Tell us about it Do you have an education related story you’d like to share with fellow residents? Send an email to communications.team@dcranchinc.com and we may feature you in an upcoming issue.

fun at Back to School

Bash

his year’s Back to School Bash has gone back to the drawing board to make it an event to remember. The Community Council is reserving the entire McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center!

As summer comes to a close, children sometimes dread going back to school and parents might be in a rush to get everything organized for that first day. To make the transition a bit more fun for the entire family, both children and adults are invited to this year’s Bash.

DC Ranch families will have exclusive access to the state of the art aquatic center, including the leisure pool, lazy river, Party Island and water slide. Dance to music and play games with a live DJ. Pizza and snacks will be provided. This family event is a great time to reconnect with neighbors and celebrate both the end of summer and the start of another school year.

One important element of Back to School Bash that hasn’t changed is the philanthropic purpose supporting a cause to provide educational materials for low-income families. This year the Community Council is supporting Valley of the Sun United Way (VSUW) in promoting awareness of the gap in early childhood literacy.

Admission to the Bash is one children’s book per person to be donated to the VSUW book drive.

With a new cause and a new venue, this family event will be one for kids and parents to remember.

Get ready to make a splash!

DC Ranch Back to School Bash Saturday, Aug. 8 | 6 to 9 p.m.

McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic Center 15525 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy.

Register on DCRanch.com

All resident families are invited; children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Limit six people per family. Online registration closes Thursday, Aug. 6, at 5 p.m. In person and phone registration will be open until Friday, Aug. 7, at 5 p.m.

A book will get you in Want to join the Bash? It’s easy–just bring a book! The Community Council asks each Back to School Bash participant to bring one or more favorite children’s books to donate to the Valley of the Sun United Way (VSUW) fall book drive. Bring a new or gently used book for children 0 to 8 years. If you run out of ideas, there's a list of suggested early grade reading books on DCRanch.com.

5,000 books by Thanksgiving Back to School Bash kicks off the Community Council’s fall book drive to support literacy for children in the Valley. From August until Thanksgiving, book drop-off stations will be available in the community centers as well as the front desk at The Ranch Offices on Market Street. The books will be donated to local families and schools.

According to the VSUW, more than 80 percent of Arizona’s low-income children enter kindergarten with literary skills below the benchmark. By age four, children in low-income families will have heard 13 million words, compared to 45 million words heard by children in professional families.

This has a direct impact on brain development and learning ability.

To help bridge this gap in early childhood literacy, VSUW is committed to providing a thousand families with 5,000 books by Thanksgiving– let's help them reach this goal!. Give low-income families an opportunity to share a memory with their children and improve their literacy skills by passing along your family’s favorite children’s books.

Learn more about Valley of the Sun United Way at www.vsuw.org.

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Amenities

Park makeovers add beauty and fun “What a lovely thing a rose is! . . .

Its smell and its colour are an embellishment of life, not a condition of it.” —Sir Arthur Conan Doyle Roses were the passion of Ethel Marley, matriarch of one of DC Ranch’s founding families, and the park named in her honor, Ethel’s Garden, is a landmark jewel nestled in Silverleaf. It recently received an extra dose of attention from the land-

scape crew, who finished a major redesign in May. The project began around Valentine’s Day, when residents were given a chance to stop, smell, and pick a rose or two before the renovation started.

Since then, more than 500 new plants, roses and trees have been installed and the garden is poised for a blooming future.

namesake, and renowned for its strong fragrance and rich color. In striking contrast are the brilliant, crystal-white Iceberg roses known for their fragrant blooms and attractive foliage. Smaller, pink Sweet Drift polyantha roses are planted in a choir boy arrangement in front of their taller relatives, for a harmonious blend of color and blossom.

A stroll through the garden will let visitors meet Mr. Lincoln−20 or more of them in fact. This deep-red rose is statuesque, like its presidential

The park’s south side features multi-colored vining roses and lavender while the north side showcases roses and arid-loving plants like hot pink autumn

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CheyLuxuryHomes@gmail.com • 602-570-2516 • www.CheyCastro.com R a n c h N e w s | J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015

Chey Castro, MSA

The Big Picture on DC Ranch Parks 20.4 acres of parks Parks by Village

Community Centers

Country Club 12 pocket parks

The Homestead and Desert Camp

Desert Camp 15 pocket parks

Public Park

Desert Parks 8 neighborhood parks

Market Street

Silverleaf

14 neighborhood parks, 3 pocket parks, 1 greenbelt

Sub-associations Turf or green belt common areas

sage, orange Mexican firecracker and bright yellow Damianita. The new plants are in a healing phase to get ready for the summer heat and are expected to produce a vibrant bouquet of colors next spring.

Homestead Park

in Silverleaf had a recent upgrade to bring its playground equipment into compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act standards. To meet requirements, crews first needed to enlarge the play area. Residents were surveyed about their preferences and overwhelmingly opted for removal of a tree to make way for new slides, swings and climbing features. Many residents have expressed gratitude for the expanded play area and are happy to have the park to enjoy.

Located in Silverleaf, Homestead Park features a life-size chess set at one end, the play area at the other, and a grassy area in between for neighbors to gather and pets to play.

Ethel’s Garden features a fountain that runs nearly the length of the park, with rose-shaded pergolas and plenty of seating. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy some early morning coffee or a sunset toast.

the beauty We believe in establishing long-term client relationships right from the beginning. As a patient, you can expect quality, professional care along with the most advanced technology. We value lasting friendships and beautiful, healthy smiles.

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J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015 | R a n c h N e w s

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Start training for the Tour!

Mark your calendars 2015 Tour de Scottsdale Sunday, Oct. 11 | 6:30 a.m. (70-mile ride) 6:40 a.m. (30-mile ride) Market Street at DC Ranch Register at TourdeScottsdale.net Cyclists and spectators are welcome to enjoy the post ride expo, which will include a bevy of vendors, live music, and lots of fun! The rides benefit the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, which helps support the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Packet Pick-up Friday, Oct. 9 | 3-7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 10 | 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Homestead Community Center

T

he countdown is on for the 12th annual Tour de Scottsdale, just a few months away on Sunday, Oct. 11. Every fall, cycling enthusiasts enjoy a scenic ride that circumnavigates the beautiful McDowell Preserve, with a start and finish at bustling Market Street in DC Ranch. Now is the time to start planning and training for a successful ride.

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Tour de Scottsdale coming this October

Tour de Scottsdale Kickoff Party Thursday, July 30 | 5 to 7 p.m.

FASTER Cycling 16414 N. 91st Street, #103 Scottsdale, AZ Stop by FASTER, the official Tour bike shop sponsor, to receive discounted early-bird registration rates and enjoy appetizers, beverages and music.

Throughout the evening, FASTER will also offer in-store specials; tours of their comprehensive service department, 3D bike fitting, and recovery suite (compression boots, both hot and cold plunges, locker rooms); and demonstrations of the world’s first, commercial grade, low speed wind tunnel. Bring friends and family to learn about volunteer positions and fundraising opportunities for the Tour.

In addition to swag bag goodies for the first 50 attendees through the door, FASTER has lined up some great Kickoff Party raffle prizes, including: · SPY Sunglasses ($150 value) · Shimano Cycling shoes ($150)

· FASTER 2D bike fit ($199) · Faster 3D bike fit ($299) · SIGMA Human Performance AMP Metabolic Tests ($350) Tour de Scottsdale clinic and training rides start Sept. 5 6 a.m. | FASTER The first training ride begins with a 30-minute bike skills clinic at 6 a.m.–all riders are encouraged to attend. The ride starts at 6:30 a.m. After that date, the group training rides will begin at 6 a.m. on Saturdays, starting from the shop, and will follow the 30- and 70-mile routes. These are no-drop group rides, meaning that the FASTER race team will lead the ride and support all riders; no one will be left behind.

Please visit the Tour de Scottsdale Facebook page for "FASTER Friday" training tips and information about bike fittings and maintenance, gear, nutrition and day-of preparation.

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20825 N PIMA RD SCOTTSDALE, AZ (480) 513-8332

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R a n c h N e w s | J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015

FASTER’s Five tips for Tour success 1

Ride the course in advance This helps a rider know how to gauge efforts and become familiar with hydration and nutrition needs.

It’s About Balance Looking for the best yoga classes in the Valley? Become a Village member, where you can experience yoga in balance with Pilates, indoor cycling, tennis, group exercise, swimming and massage.

Multiple studios, experienced instructors all under one roof.

2

Start riding four hours per week Then increase by 10 percent each subsequent week to build volume (general rule of thumb is to increase volume by 10 percent per week for three weeks then take a rest week). Start another four-week block with the same formula.

3

Begin basic interval training Most recreational riders fall behind by training in the same regimen every week.

Insert some hard-level interval workouts throughout your training. On a scale of 1 (easy) to 5 (hard) these 30-60 sec. intervals should feel like a 4 or 5. Generally, it is recommended to do these intense intervals early in the week when you are fresher and more motivated.

4

Start thinking about hydration as part of your life, not just something you do on the bike Make sure you drink enough water and electrolyte drinks throughout your training.

In the summer, the general rule is one to two bottles of water per hour and one bottle of a sports drink while riding.

5

When the weather cools, dress in layers Wear arm warmers, a base layer and a jersey at the most. Overheating is worse than being a little cold at the start.

Call 480.502.8844

for your complimentary VIP trial visit.

DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa 18501 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale AZ 85255

J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015 | R a n c h N e w s

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Unwind and Savor ‘La Dolce Vita’ at Ciao Grazie

T

BY RUTH ROSENQUIST

hree years ago, renowned Valley restaurateur Franco Dalu opened Ciao Grazie Pizzeria and Wine Bar in DC Ranch. Its location offers stunning views of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

“We are very happy to be here in this great Canyon Village neighborhood, and are proud to be serving in your backyard,” Dalu said.

Ciao Grazie’s inventive menu draws on Dalu’s Italian heritage and European pedigree as a chef at the Ritz Carlton in Edinburgh,

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480-306-4015 Experience great restaurants and eateries—from rustic urban American fare to award-winning prime beef, plus coal-fired pizza, farm-to-table cuisine and beyond.

Discover unique shopping boutiques, spa services, specialty stores, exquisite home accessories, jewelry shopping, shoe shopping and more, all in one vibrant location.

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R a n c h N e w s | J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015

Located on Market Street between Le’Hermitage and Edward Jones

Market Street at DC Ranch... all of life’s essentials within reach.

Scotland and the Grand Pizza for A’s Hotel Eden in Lugano, Every child presenting a current report card Switzerland. His specialty with straight A’s will be is authentic Italian pizza, rewarded with a free pizza, made-to-order using the compliments of Ciao Grazie! freshest ingredients: homemade mozzarella, crispy-thin flavored pizza dough made from scratch, homemade tomato sauce blended with locally sourced ingredients, all cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. Ciao Grazie’s menu showcases fresh variations of their extremely popular wood-fired salmon, chicken and beef kabobs, paninis and homemade desserts, including tiramisu.

To complement its authentic Italian cuisine, Ciao Grazie offers a wide variety of unique wines, hand-picked by Dalu himself. “Our extensive boutique wine list adds the perfect notes to your meal,� he added.

Recent additions to Ciao Grazie’s offerings include an al fresco patio lounge with cozy couch groupings that invite sipping and grazing from their new Happy Hour menu, every day of the week.

Ciao Grazie In Canyon Village at 18835 N. Thompson Peak Pkwy.

Scottsdale, Arizona 85255 ciaograzie.us Open daily, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday until 10 p.m.

“Our greatest pleasure is to see guests walk through our front door, slow down, enjoy the experience and leave fulfilled, with happy hearts. We want to thank this community for its patronage and support over the last three years,� said Dalu.

Delizioso! Toast to summer

with recipes from Ciao Grazie

Ciao Grazie signature Lemontini 2 oz. vodka 1 oz. Limoncello Lime juice Sugar

Half a lemon, juiced Ice Martini glass

Rim Martini glass with lime and dip in sugar. In a metal shaker, add ice, vodka, Limoncello and lemon juice.

Shake about 10 times, then strain into martini glass.

Finish off with a lemon twist. Cheers!

Bruschetta with Franco’s secret Bolognese sauce 1/2 lb. ground beef 1/2 lb. ground sausage 2 carrots 2 celery sticks 1/4 cup basil

1/2 medium onion 2 garlic cloves 4 cups fresh tomato sauce Ciabatta bread Parmesan cheese, shaved

Chop vegetables and sautĂŠ in a pan with olive oil until soft.

Brown beef and sausage, then add sauteed vegetables and tomato sauce. Simmer for 15 minutes. Toast ciabatta bread, then spoon meat sauce on top of bread and garnish with Parmesan shavings.

FineMark is an integral part of our team.

Hale Irwin

Hall of Fame Golfer

Sally Irwin

“Sally and I have had the good fortune to associate ourselves with a great team of trusted advisors over the years. FineMark is an integral part of that team. We are not just clients, we are also shareholders and feel very much part of the FineMark family.�

– Sally and Hale Irwin

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J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015 | R a n c h N e w s

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Maintaining the Preserve’s many trails

S

cottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve currently encompasses more than 30,000 contiguous acres, with more than 120 miles of trails in existence and many more under development. The trails are kept in great shape so we can all enjoy access to our favorite parts of the Preserve. However, did you ever stop to think about how the trails are kept in such good condition?

It all starts with McDowell Sonoran Conservancy volunteers patrolling every mile of Preserve trail on a regular basis. MSC’s Patrol stewards serve as the “eyes and ears” for both the City of Scottsdale and the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. When trail issues are reported, the City and MSC’s Construction and Maintenance stewards schedule and make necessary repairs. This is a year-round process that involves hundreds of volunteers and thousands of hours annually.

Some events require special attention. For example, MSC’s Patrol program operates a Storm Watch.

Whenever heavy storms roll through the Preserve,

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R a n c h N e w s | J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015

BY JACE MCKEIGHAN | MSC STEWARD AND DC RANCH RESIDENT

MSC volunteers are immediately notified and asked to head out and investigate. Those volunteer stewards are often the first people on the trails following a storm and they look specifically for storm-related damage. With the dedication of these stewards, it is entirely likely that storm damage will be located and repaired before you even get back out on the trail.

Storms and trail damage are not the only things that stewards monitor. This past Fourth of July, MSC operated the July Fourth Watch. A number of stewards spent their entire holiday weekend outside, in the hot sun, at Preserve trailheads making sure no one set off fireworks in the Preserve. By state law, fireworks are prohibited within one mile of the Preserve boundary. Stewards sacrificed their holiday to help prevent dangerous fires in the Preserve.

All of these efforts go on every day of the year in one form or another. Most of the work is undertaken by volunteers donating their time, talent and treasure for the benefit of the Preserve. Indeed, activities in the Preserve are very rarely disturbed by these efforts—they continue without visitors even noticing

them. Yet, we are all the beneficiaries of those efforts, and for that we are all grateful. Next time you’re on the trails, take a moment to think about everything that has to take place to keep that next section of trail in shape for you.

I’ll see you on the trails, and I’ll be on patrol. —Jace MSC Natural History Summer Series Mustang Library | 5:30-7:30 p.m.

(Third Wednesday of the month June to August) What Really Covers the Desert— Little Organisms Can Make a Big Difference!

July 15 | Dan Gruber—Lichens, Moss and Desert Crust Some of the most common sights in the desert—and indeed the living things that probably cover more of the desert than any single kind of plant—are lichen, desert varnish and soil crust. These organisms actually have much in common. Among other things, they're all alive (yes, even varnish), they have some components that are neither plants nor animals, and living filaments are crucial to their existence.

Thriving and Surviving in the Sonoran Desert Aug. 19 | Bernie Finkel- Ethnobotany Learn how the Native Americans used desert plants to sustain themselves in the harsh desert environment of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.

Ranch Living

Starting the summer out right The Ranch plays host to several camps, events and programs to help residents enjoy life this summer

Hundreds of people brought picnic dinners to Market Street Park to watch Valley-favorite Rock Lobster perform during the Starlight Concert Series. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria sold nearly 350 pizzas to hungry fans that evening.

The DC Ranch Film Club hosted a screening of resident Fred Green’s frightfully captivating film, “It Follows,” at Harkins 101 Theatres.

Children learned how to get into character at The Homestead Playhouse’s Script to Stage summer theatre camp.

Families cooled off at the Dive-In Movie Series and watched an outdoor movie at the Desert Camp Community Center pool.

Workshops for Youth and Families peer leaders welcomed new participants during the week-long summer workshops at The Homestead Community Center.

J u l y/ A u g u s t 2 015 | R a n c h N e w s

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The Best Decision in North Scottsdale

Silverleaf Pre-Construction 20723 North 112th Street – 1714 5 Bed / 5.5 Bath / 9,974 SF $6,495,000 Mike Lehman

Silverleaf Custom Estate 19042 North 102nd Street – 2912 4 Bed / 7.5 Bath / 9,600 SF $5,795,000 Mike Sweeney / Andrew Beardsley

Silverleaf Casita

18635 North 101st Place – 21 4 Bed / 4.5 Bath / 4,157 SF $2,995,000 Mike Lehman

Silverleaf Verandah

19474 North 101st Place – 2129 6 Bed / 6 Bath / 5,978 SF $2,795,000 Cynthia Kleerup Penwell

Silverleaf Custom Estate

Silverleaf Custom

10744 East Wingspan Way – 1665 4 Bed / 4.5 Bath / 5,667 SF $4,295,000 Deborah Beardsley / Andrew Beardsley

20010 North 103rd Street – 1104 5 Bed / 6 Bath / 7,800 SF $3,895,000 Deborah Beardsley / Andrew Beardsley

Silverleaf Custom

Silverleaf Upper Canyon Homesite

19979 North 102nd Place – 1137 4 Bed / 5 Bath / 5,048 SF $2,495,000 Laura Lester

To experience Silverleaf or to schedule a private preview of available homes, contact Silverleaf Realty.

20789 N. Pima Road, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 480.502.6902 · w w w .silverleaf.com

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Silverleaf Custom Estate

10919 East Mountain Spring Road – 1508 5 Bed / 8 Bath / 6,842 SF $4,799,000 Deborah Beardsley / Andrew Beardsley

*List to be presented upon COE. If your property is currently listed, this is not R a nprice c h Nofe wthes home, | J uactual l y/ A usales g u sprice t 2 015 meant as a solicitation. Prices and property availability remain subject to change. © 2015 Silverleaf Realty

20568 North 112th Street – 1707 2.07 Acres / 38,792 Building Envelope $1,695,000 – Laura Lester