Stay up-to-date! Visit the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association website, www.scottsdaleranch.org
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Social Life on the Ranch
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 man-made 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!
Mike Breslin Treasurer
Nina Munson Secretary
Ron Auerbach Director
Mike Thorlin Director
Peter Klausner 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
(Non-emergency)
“The Mission of Scottsdale Ranch Community Association is to serve as the organization through which its residents may sustain and enhance the character, quality of life, and desirability of our community.” Police (Emergency) 911
THE SRCA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FEBRUARY 16TH FOR PRESIDENT’S 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
Maria Rodriguez Bookkeeper bookkeeping@scottsdaleranch.org
MISSION STATEMENT:
Matt Metz President
Dave Specht Vice President
Manager’s Report
By Kathe M. Barnes, CAAM, LSM, PCAM Executive Director
Over 75 million people in the United States live in a community association which is about 35% of the population. This is because community associations present choices in lifestyles, amenities and services. Some are attracted by the recreational facilities and social opportunities provided by the HOA. Many are drawn to the architectural standards of the neighborhoods and the common areas while some want a degree of protection of their property values through the rules and regulations.
Whatever the reason is that brought you to Scottsdale Ranch, we are glad you chose our community!
What can we do as an HOA to help ensure we follow our Mission Statement?
“The Mission of the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association is to serve as the organization through which its residents may sustain and enhance the character, quality of life and desirability of our community.”
The SRCA Board of Directors, committees, management and staff continually strive to foster a sense of community and build neighborhood pride by:
• Fulfilling fiduciary duties and making decisions that are in the best interest of the whole
• Exercising sound business judgment and management practices
• Conducting business in a transparent manner
• Building and maintaining a fiscally sound organization
• Conducting fair, open and well publicized board elections
• Maintaining an open line of communication with members
• Encouraging input from members
• Welcoming and educations new members to the community
• Hosting social events that foster neighborliness that helps to build that sense of community
• Maintaining and enhancing the common areas and community amenities
First impressions are important. Building that sense of community can help to increase the value of Scottsdale Ranch, not only to the current homeowners but to potential buyers. Having a close-knit community has an intrinsic value. Driving around Scottsdale Ranch will only confirm the high sense of pride that our owners have, making our community more appealing.
My staff and I are always available to assist you in any way that we can, and my door is always open. So please stop by, I would love to meet you if I haven’t, but if I have – stop by to say hello.
I look forward to 2026 as we continue the property enhancements and relationship building.
Board Briefs
December
• Appointed Steve Grady as a member to the Architectural Committee.
The SRCA office will be closed February 16th in observance of President’s Day.
Upcoming SRCA Board Election!
The SRCA Annual Homeowners Meeting and Board Election is set for March 19th. We strongly encourage all homeowners to engage in the HOA election process.
The Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA) will hold its annual election alongside our Annual Homeowners’ Meeting on March 19, 2026, at 6:00 pm in the SR Community Center. This election is an opportunity to select members for the Board of Directors. This year, SRCA will once again implement an e-Voting system via our online Homeowner Portal, with three (3) positions available on the Board.
Detailed information about the voting process will be mailed to each homeowner mid-February.
We invite you to take part in shaping the governance of your community!
President’s Message
By Matt Metz SRCA Board President
As you read this, I am stepping down from your SRCA Board of Directors. Per our association’s by-laws, I have once again reached the limit of three consecutive twoyear terms, so I must step down for at least a year. The intent of this rule is to create opportunities for new members to step forward and serve.
In total, I’ve proudly served on the Scottsdale Ranch Board for 12 years – ten of those as president. It has been my privilege and honor to serve all of you in this wonderful community.
While I’m sad that I have to leave the Board, I am heartened by the knowledge that SRCA remains in the hands of dedicated and competent people.
Your volunteer, elected, Board of Directors sets the direction for Scottsdale Ranch, ensuring that we protect and enhance both our property values and the quality of life we enjoy. Our current Board is an amazing collection of dedicated individuals, representing a diverse range of skills and life experiences, and bringing often different points of view to the Board. This body has been thoughtful and thorough in its deliberations. While Board members don’t always agree 100% with each other, our differences have always been expressed respectfully – and our interactions are civil and respectful.
Serving under the direction of the Board, our Executive Director Kathe Barnes has provided expert operational leadership for over 40 years. She and her able staff are the front lines of our HOA, and we are indeed lucky to have these knowledgeable and capable folks being the primary point of contact for our members. Besides running the business of our HOA, they help with our communications and manage the many social events that contribute to the wonderful quality of life here at Scottsdale Ranch.
I am also thankful for the scores of neighbors who serve on our various committees. These people dedicate their valuable personal time to: ensure our social events are successful; distribute our communications vehicles (web site, magazine, emails) to keep everyone connected and informed; make sure our elections are run competently and fairly; keep our beautiful Lake Serena one of our shining gems; evaluate architectural requests fairly and in a timely manner; and ensure our association’s financial health.
I hope to return to the Board someday soon, but during my hiatus I can rest easy, knowing our community is in the hands of dedicated employees and volunteers, and that Scottsdale Ranch remains the best place in the Valley to live.
IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT INFORMATION
If you have not already paid your assessment, please see below.
By Maria Rodriguez SRCA Bookkeeper
• All assessment payments were due January 1, 2026, whether or not you received an invoice.
• There was a 30-day grace period providing homeowners adequate time to make payments, as payments were not considered delinquent until February 01, 2026. All payments received after February 01, 2026 are considered late and have been assessed a 10% late fee of $46.30.
• If paying your assessment after February 01, 2026, please make your check payable to SRCA in the amount of $509.30.
• Starting February 28, 2026, all accounts not paid will be assessed interest at a rate of 12% per annum, per month until the assessment is paid.
• If your payment is not received by April 30, 2026, a lien may be filed against your property.
How to pay your 2026 Annual Assessment
When paying by check, please mail your check and the payment coupon attached to the bottom of your statement to our bank lock box in the envelope that was enclosed with the statement to ensure your payment is processed in a timely manner.
Payment Checks should be made payable to Scottsdale Ranch and mailed to:
Scottsdale Ranch Community Association c/o Scottsdale Ranch PO Box 98199 Phoenix, AZ 85038-0199
If you would like to pay online, you can visit our bank’s payment portal where you can pay using an eCheck (nominal fee) or credit card (nominal fee).
If you choose to make your payment online via the First Citizens Bank payment portal, please make sure you have your statement available. You will need the following:
Management Company ID: 1045
Association ID: SRCA
Your account number can be found on your statement.
https://propertypay.firstcitizensbank.com/ (Once you’re redirected to the website, just click the “Pay Assessment” button please do not Sign Up or Login)
For further questions, please contact the SRCA Bookkeeper, Maria Rodriguez at Bookkeeping@scottsdaleranch.org or 480-860-2022 ext. 14.
From Your Homeowner Liaison
By Kathy Diab SRCA Homeowner Liaison
City of Scottsdale Residential Rebate Programs
If you have a chance to check out the City of Scottsdale website, there is a wealth of information for homeowners about the City Services that are offered. One of the features is the City of Scottsdale Rebates. Scottsdale Water is committed to a permanent reduction in water usage. They offer homeowners rebates on water conservation such as “Smart Home Water Monitoring” and “Efficiency Technology” rebates.
Scottsdale’s water rebate programs, especially grass removal, save significant water, with one recent year seeing over 22 million gallons saved from removing 443,000 sq ft of turf alone, plus millions more from commercial audits and internal city efforts, totaling tens of millions annually, driven by high demand and incentivizing residents to adopt xeriscaping and efficient technologies.
• Overall Impact-Increased participation in rebate programs contributed to an estimated 10 plus million extra gallons saved in one year.
• Overall Goal-These programs aim to reduce overall water demand by making water-saving measures financially attractive for residences and businesses.
Qualifications
• Customers must receive water service from Scottsdale Water.
• Rebated products must have been purchased on or after May 5, 2025, are not eligible for a rebate.
• Please ensure you review the eligibility requirements before you purchase and install a WaterSense-labeled controller. To search for WaterSense labeled products, visit LookforWaterSense.EPA.gov.
• Any grass or in-ground pool in the process of being removed or already removed is not eligible for a rebate.
NOTICE: If you are unable to submit a rebate form online, you can download a PDF application and email your rebate application and supporting documentation to the Water Conservation Office.
For questions, email the Water Conservation Office or call 480-312-5650.
Their website: https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/water/water-conservation/ rebates/residential#rebate-applications
Architectural Report
By Diane Botica SRCA Architectural Liaison
Integrated Lighting
Many of the new light fixtures for the exterior are being made with an integrated lighting system. This means the light element is part of the fixture. There are some pros and some cons to this new system to consider when it’s time to submit for new light fixtures on your home. It is important that the fixtures that you choose focus the light downward and not outward, so they do not shine on neighboring properties or the public way.
Pros
Pro – There are more styles to choose from.
Pro - You will not have to worry about changing the fixture’s light bulbs.
Pro – Newer designs have a more streamline look and are less bulky.
Cons
Con – The light fixture style that you choose will need to
complement the existing design of your home. Too modern a style will not blend easily with a home that has not done any architectural updates.
Con – When the light element breaks down, so does the rest of the fixture. As part of the approval, all exterior light fixtures must be complementary in style, material, and finish.
Con – Some of the new styles do not have a dimming feature. It may be a good idea to run the fixtures you have chosen past your electrician to find out about the fixture’s limitations. As part of the approval, SRCA reserves the right to require that the brightness be lowered and/or the fixture shielded if it adversely affects the neighboring properties or common areas.
Scottsdale Ranch supports the City of Scottsdale policies for exterior and site lighting by encouraging quality lighting design while providing a sense of safety and security by reducing excessive light levels, light trespass, and glare. Exterior lighting should be shielded and directed downward to maintain dark skies whenever possible.
Exterior lighting approvals require the maximum lumens per exterior lighting fixture to be 800 lumens. The light element must not adversely affect neighboring properties.
Please remember to submit and receive approval before investing in the fixtures to save time and money. Not all companies allow returns.
When in doubt, reach out! Please submit!
families Simplifying Life Transitions
For
seniors and
Making decisions about downsizing, relocation, or independent living doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
Join us for an educational coffee and breakfast event featuring three experienced professionals who will share insights on:
f Managing estate sales
f Planning for relocation and independent living
f Packing, moving, and organizing with ease
This complimentary event is designed to provide clarity, answer questions, and connect you with trusted resources—all in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
February 7 | 10:00 – 11:30 AM
Spring Gardening Tips for the Low Desert: Embracing the Seasonal Shift
As the frost begins to wane and mornings grow milder, gardeners in the low desert eagerly anticipate the onset of spring. However, February’s warm spells can be deceptive; the risk of frost lingers until mid-March. To ensure your garden thrives, it’s crucial to take protective measures for plants during this transitional period.
Timing is Everything
Mid-March heralds the ideal planting season in the low desert. This brief window between the chill of winter and the blistering summer heat offers the perfect conditions for cultivating roses, citrus trees, flowers, and vegetables. It’s also a prime time for heavy pruning and fertilization to rejuvenate your plants and trees.
Pruning for Plant Health
Frost-damaged branches should be pruned once temperatures stabilize. Proper pruning involves selectively removing crowded and crossed branches to create a natural and airy appearance. Restorative pruning, which involves cutting all branches back significantly, can be performed every few years to promote vigorous regrowth and ensure the longterm health of plants.
The Importance of Fertilization
Spring is the season to give your plants a nutritional boost. Fertilizing in early spring replenishes the nutrients lost during colder months, helping plants recover and prepare for the increasing heat. Soil testing can identify specific nutrient needs, allowing you to choose the most effective fertilizer blend to support robust growth and vibrant color.
Adjusting Irrigation Practices
As March progresses, temperatures will rise, and your plants’ water requirements will increase. Newly planted landscapes are especially vulnerable and may need additional irrigation to establish strong root systems. Ensure your irrigation timers are set to meet seasonal demands, and plan for consistent watering to keep your plants healthy year-round.
By embracing these seasonal gardening practices, you can prepare your landscape to flourish through spring and beyond. Whether you’re planting new additions, nurturing existing plants, or fine-tuning your irrigation schedule, now is the time to lay the foundation for a vibrant and thriving garden.
ATTENTION!!
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.
City of Scottsdale Collection Services
Upcoming Weeks of Brush Collection: February 9th & March 9th
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.
City of Scottsdale Community Notices
Scottsdale EZ
Whether it’s a broken streetlight, a fresh pothole or a missing trash can, the City of Scottsdale’s online service makes it easier for residents to report problems with city facilities or services. Scottsdale EZ is a single, mobileoptimized system that lets you quickly report issues and provides the city with a consolidated tracking and reporting system. To submit a request please visit www.ScottsdaleAZ. gov and search Scottsdale EZ.
HOME AND LANDSCAPE
Thank You!!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our amazing residents for their contributions to our holiday donation drive, as well as the generous donations from the SRCA Holiday Party and Boat Parade! Thanks to your support, we were able to gather an impressive collection of toys, and non-perishable food items, along with $814.00 in cash donations, which was donated to Vista Del Camino Food Bank & Donation Center.
SR MEN’S CLUB (Formerly “Ramco”)
This membership is composed of retired men who are still active, enjoy life, and want to meet new people and learn new things. The group meets at the SR Community Center at 9:00 am on the third Wednesday of each month. Coffee and donuts are served. The highlight of each meeting is a presentation by a guest speaker. The next few speakers:
FEBRUARY 18th: “Energy vs Climate: A Balanced Analysis” by Petroleum Industry veteran Rick Ross
MARCH 18th: Presentation by Christine Mackay, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council
If you are interested in joining the Club, or just attending one of the meetings, please contact Jerry Howell (928242-7979, JDVHOWIE45@GMAIL.COM). Meetings are open to all Scottsdale Ranch residents, but due to space limitations, we ask that you RSVP in advance.
SRCA offers many communication avenues to keep SR residents connected on important SRCA information, community communications, announcements, events and more.
SRCA website. www.scottsdaleranch.org
Our interactive website offers a plethora of important information. We encourage you to peruse this great online tool. Here, you can find all SRCA documents and forms, including our: CC&Rs, Architectural Rules & Guidelines, Rental Agreements for our Community Center, Pontoon Boat Rental, Recreational Boats and Party Trailer, Architectural Applications, Approved Paint Colors, current Magazine issues, Board and Committee meeting minutes.
Weekly email blasts.
Sign up to be on the contact list by submitting your contact information on the front page of the SRCA website. Your email address will only be used for Scottsdale Ranch Community Association communications.
Bi-monthly magazines.
SRCA magazines are published every other month and are mailed to all residents in the first week of that magazine’s issue month. Not only does it include information on the latest events happening around the community, but it also includes important articles from the SRCA Executive Director, Board Members and Staff. You will also find landscaping tips, news from the City of Scottsdale, and more!
Homeowner Portal.
The homeowner portal provides easy access to your account balance information and all other important SRCA information, documents, and forms that you can find on the SRCA website. You must also be registered for the portal to place an e-vote for the upcoming SRCA Annual Board Election.
CommunityLink.
Once you have registered for the online portal, you will now have access to log into the mobile app from your tablet or phone. The CommunityLink app is available to download in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on any Apple/Android devices. Once you have downloaded the app on your phone, log into the mobile app using the same username / password you set up when registering for your homeowner portal account. The same information you see on the online portal version is available in the CommunityLink app, right at your fingertips.
Social media.
Facebook: scottsdaleranch
Instagram: scottsdaleranch
Stay Connected!
Communication is key in our organization. As always, we welcome any suggestions to improve our communications.
AMENITIES
Laguna Elementary School
By Krisse Kelly, Principal A+ STEAM School, Scottsdale, Arizona
Soaring with Laguna Elementary School
Happy New Year! Enrollment is actively underway at Laguna Elementary School for next year! Can you believe we’re already half-way through the year! Whether you’re new to the area or have been here for many years, we’d love to have you join our Laguna family! You can even transfer to Laguna this year!
Did you know that you do not need to live in our boundaries to attend Laguna? As a transplant from another state over 21 years ago, I was accustomed to students only attending their nearby school. When we arrived in Arizona, we were pleasantly surprised to find out that we could go to any Scottsdale school. Luckily, my own kids found Laguna and thrived! As a neighborhood school, our class sizes are smaller which allow us more individualized time with students.
We are constantly giving tours at Laguna! We also have “shadow days,” where students can shadow another student and stay on campus for half a day, so they can see if they like our school and programs. Simply call the front office at 480484-2400 to set up a tour or shadow day today!
So, why should you choose Laguna? Laguna Elementary School is an A+ STEAM School. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) At Laguna, we believe in a well-balanced curriculum. We go beyond the traditional district-approved curriculum and teach students through the lens of STEAM. Using inquiry-based instruction, we challenge our students to ask “why?” We prepare students for the future by teaching them to think for themselves, how to get along with others, and how to be well-mannered students.
We have a world-class Makerspace, (similar to an Innovation Lab), a Science Lab, Art Room, we offer General Music, Strings, Band, a STEAM Class, a full-time nurse, full-time librarian, gifted services, speech services, free full-time Kindergarten, Preschool, including Toddler 2’s, 3’s, and Pre-Kindergarten, in addition to a wide variety of after-school clubs, like Drama Club, and free tutoring services.
In December, our kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd Drama Club performed an original musical, “Tails,” which was written by former Laguna Eagle, Paige Underwood. Over 50 of our students learned how to recite lines, sing, and dance in front of three live audiences. Bravo!
Each Laguna student gets their own personal Chromebook, checked out to them, similar to a library book. However, we believe in balance, so all students participate in our “Accelerated Reader Program,” (AR). Students must read chapter books on a weekly basis and are constantly assessed on their comprehension and fluency. But we make it fun and stu -
dents can earn points and pins for their lanyard. So, they don’t even realize how much they’re even learning!
This is our second year of uniforms at Laguna. We wear uniforms Monday through Thursday and have “free dress” on Fridays. We have learned that by “dressing for success,” students have been re-focused on academic achievement and worry less about their outfits.
Something that definitely makes Laguna unique is our proximity to the Piper Branch of the Boys and Girls Club. We share the same playground and parking lots, their counselors visit and play with our students during recess on a daily basis, and their counselors walk over 50 of our students to their campus after school to their Club. We also use their newly renovated gymnasium during the day when it gets too hot to play outside. Our students also utilize their newly renovated Makerspace, which is gorgeous! The Boys and Girls Club even extended two free days to our students over the holiday break, which was a big hit with our students and families!
The Boys and Girls Club offers a wide variety of wonderful after-school activities such as homework support, sports, art projects, group games, special activities, a teen club, and more! We are so grateful for their continued support and help. We are very lucky to have them conveniently located right next door to our campus. They too give tours and would welcome a visit from you!
We hope to see you and your family soon at Laguna! Please reach out soon to schedule a tour or a shadow day soon!
Never Quit — Sports Recovery
10135 E Via Linda, Suite C118, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Never Quit is a modern spor ts recover y club for active people who want to feel less sore, recover faster, and stay consistent in their training or spor t. With cold plunge, sauna, compression, red light, and hydrotherapy, recover y becomes simple and enjoyable.
Who We Help
Never Quit ser ves gym-goers, runners, cyclists, weekend athletes, and people who play pickleball, tennis, and other spor ts anyone who wants better recover y, more energy, and fewer setbacks.
Why Recover y Matters
Most active people train hard but recover poorly, leading to soreness, fatigue, and inconsistency At Never Quit, recover y becomes a simple habit that keeps you strong, energized, and doing what you love.
What Makes Never Quit Different
Designed for active people not injur y rehab. Five recover y tools in one place. A simple, flexible 1‐hour flow you customize. Welcoming, community‐driven environment. Tr y It for Yourself —
$20 Intro Recover y Session
Experience all f ive modalities in a single visit.
Feel less sore. More energy. Better performance.” www.clubneverquit.com
www.samuraisams.net
nyahnailboutique.com
Movie In The Park!
Friday, February 27th at 6:15 P.M. (the movie will start shortly after sundown.)
Join us for a fun evening under the stars! Bring your blankets and chairs to watch the movie on a jumbotron.
Scottsdale Ranch Park 10400 E. Via Linda
Complimentary snacks and drinks will be available.
This event is for Scottsdale Ranch residents only.
SOCIAL LIFE ON THE RANCH
Piper Boys & Girls Club
Teen Bella Steps Onto the Big Stage
For Bella, the Virginia G. Piper Boys & Girls Club has never been just a place to go after school. It has been a place to belong, to grow, and to discover her voice.
This fall, that journey reached an exciting milestone when Bella, a 15-year-old sophomore at Desert Mountain High School, was named the 2025–26 Virginia G. Piper Branch Youth of the Year, earning her a spot as one of six finalists in Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale’s prestigious Youth of the Year program.
Youth of the Year is the highest honor a Club member can receive, recognizing teens who demonstrate leadership, character, service, and academic commitment. Nineteen teens from six Clubs across the Valley participated in this year’s competition, with only one finalist selected from each Branch.
For Bella, the recognition reflects years of quiet determination and growth.
She first walked through the doors of the Piper Branch as a nervous nine-year-old. What she found inside was more than after-school programs—it was a community that helped her turn hardship into strength and empathy into leadership. Over time, Bella discovered how to use her voice, her compassion, and her love of basketball to bring people together and make others feel seen.
Her leadership often shows up in small but powerful ways: supporting her younger brother on his first day at the Club, mentoring younger members, encouraging teammates, and helping create an environment where everyone feels welcome. The confidence she has built at the Club is something she now gives back every day.
“The Club helped Bella heal, grow, and find her purpose,” said Club staff who have watched her journey unfold. “Now she brings that strength right back to others.”
As part of the Youth of the Year selection process, candidates prepared written essays, delivered a three-minute speech, and participated in interviews with a panel of volunteer judges from business, civic, education, and philanthropic sectors. Bella earned the highest score among candidates from the Piper Branch.
She will now continue her journey alongside five other finalists as they prepare for final judging in early February. The 2026 Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Youth of the Year will be announced live at the Celebrate Youth Gala on February 21, 2026. The winner will advance to the Arizona state competition and continue on the path toward national recognition.
For the Scottsdale Ranch community, Bella’s story is a reminder of the impact happening every afternoon at the Virginia G. Piper Branch—where caring adults, meaningful programs, and a sense of belonging help young people discover who they are and who they can become.
IN THE COMMUNITY
By Brian Hartman, #866 Scottsdale Police Department Crime Prevention Officer
Via Linda District
February/March Safety Tips
Scam Prevention
Here are a few ways you can best protect yourself and your family from online/phone scams:
• Never pay with gift cards if someone is calling, or emailing insisting on this form of payment, it is a scam. No legitimate business or government agency will request payments in gift cards.
• Do not provide Social Security numbers, or any other personal identifying information to any unauthorized or unknown person.
• Try not to answer phone calls from unknown phone numbers. If it is important enough the caller will leave a voicemail to which you can verify the legitimacy of the call, before calling back.
• It is always okay to hang up the phone, especially if you are suspicious, it is a scam.
Spring Training
Please keep the following in mind regarding Spring Training returning, with heavier foot/vehicle traffic around the valley:
• Slow down in pedestrian-heavy areas and designated crosswalk zones.
• Do not use handheld devices while driving and remain alert.
• If you use navigation to reach a destination, set your route before you begin driving.
Outdoor Activity
• Make sure to secure your vehicle when parking, and do not leave any valuables inside the vehicle.
• When hiking on trails stay on marked paths to avoid potential hazards, wildlife encounters, or getting lost on unfamiliar routes.
• Always keep dogs on a leash in any public space, including sidewalks, parks, trails, etc.
