Desertscape Resident Newsletter by tharakanconsulting

FROM THE DESK OF Peter Nguyen, Desertscape Park Manager

It is summertime and the heat just keeps on coming. It does not stop us from having fun though. The pool should be up and running and available for all residents to use. It is a great place to cool down and beat the heat. We will have many events planned to include a pool party soon so get ready to party. What fun it was for a comedy night at Desertscape. Lots of residents had fun and enjoyed dinner and the two comedians were great. It was a night full of laughter and fun. I hope to bring more fun events like this to the community.

With the heat upon us, I want to remind everyone to try to stay inside as much as possible and if you need to do any work outdoors, please do it early in the morning when it is cooler and utilize shade. Always remember to take the necessary breaks and drink lots of water to stay hydrated. I hope you all have a fantastic month, and we would love to see many of you at our events. If there are any events you would like to see happen, please feel free to reach out to us and we will note it down.

Respectfully,

Peter Nguyen

Desertscape Community Manager

Phone: 602-943-5833

Email: Desertscape@cobblestoneassets.com

DESERTSCAPE CONTACT INFORMATION

OFFICE HOURS:

9-4 Monday-Friday, Closed Saturday, Sunday by Appointment Only

2050 W Dunlap Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85021

Desertscape@cobblestoneassets.com

Office .........................................................(602) 943-5833

After hours contact Bill Hegwood ................(720) 224-5190

Peter Nguyen, Desertscape Manager ...........(602) 943-5833

Twila Dawson, Sales (602) 943-5833

Gail Brazell, Activity Director .......................(602) 327-8125

COBBLESTONE NEWSLETTERS

Kathy Snider KSnider@Cobblestoneassets.com

Pam Qandil Pam@WilliamsExpress.com

NEWSLETTER DESIGN

Jo Schafrik Jovonda@SaguaroDesignStudio.com

CONTENT CONTRIBUTOR

Allison Hawley (602) 334-6328 allijoblogs@gmail.com

This publication is intended to provide entertainment and generalized information to the residents of Cobblestone Communities (Cobblestone) only. The views expressed here are not necessarily those of Cobblestone, Desertscape, or its Management Team, and they are not responsible for any content, and do not endorse any advertisers.

A MESSAGE FROM DESERTSCAPE’S ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT, Patrick McCombs

July is the hottest month of the year in Phoenix, but maybe not the most uncomfortable. August is slightly cooler, but the humidity is awful. But did you know that July is smack dab in the middle of hurricane season? Wouldn’t want to be near the east coast right now. And speaking of humidity, have you been in the east in the summer? How do they do it? No, I’ll stay here and live in the dry heat. No earthquakes, no tornados, no hurricanes, and the winters here are spectacular. All in all, it is a good place to be.

Things do slow down here in the summer though, as the heat does render outdoor activities difficult. But, in July we will

FUN IN THE PARK

be having our 4th of July BBQ at the pool! Yes, it has been a long wait, but the pool is back! So is the laundry! There are some things still needing attention, like the lighting, maybe some ceiling fans in the clubhouse and on the patio. Hopefully, the shade screens on the patio have been installed, and the palm trees will be trimmed later this month. The real good news is that 500 mbps fiber optic cable is scheduled to go live later this summer and 500 mbps is FAST! I have T-Mobile and usually get under 50 mbps, and that blows away what Century Link offers. And Jabba, from what I have heard is just too unreliable, so it will be retired.

Good things will be happening this summer, so no need to continue complaining about “Delayscape”. But I have every confidence you’ll find something to fill the void. Stay hydrated and remember sunscreen.

The horse racing game on Thursday’s in the Clubhouse was a lot of fun for all who attended. The game costs a quarter for each horse you bet on. The races will continue every Thursday at 6 pm until Bingo resumes. We are hoping for some cool days or evenings over the next few months for the Bocce ball games and will let you know when games are scheduled.

ACTIVITY DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE by Gail Brazell

July is a hot month, but we do get rain with lightning and thunder. It does help cool us down a bit before the humidity sets in. We also get to celebrate the Fourth of July with some booms, bangs and sizzles. Fireworks! What a way to celebrate our great independence. Unfortunately, some of our furry little critters might not find it as enjoyable as we do. July is also a time when some of us go on vacation. If you’re one of the lucky ones to travel, take care and enjoy. Hope you have chosen a cooler place for your travels.

Some summer activities have stopped for the summer, but there are still several happening. The following will give you an idea what’s available.

Sunday is Marbles and Jokers and Monday is Hand and Foot. Wednesday is Mexican Train. In the absence of Bingo, come on over to the Clubhouse for the horse races at 6:00 on Thursdays. Don’t forget to bring your quarters with you to place bets. Fridays means time for Karaoke. The Desert Angels get together on Saturday’s to make cards for Veteran organizations and have even made cards for everyone in the Park – and the residents love them. Saturdays means it’s time for Texas Hold ‘em. and is often the night special events and dinners are held.

So, fellow residents, I hope you venture out and participate in some of these activities.

Have questions? Give me a call at 602-327-8125.

Gail Brazell Activities Director Gailbrazell61@yahoo.com

July Resident of the Month

Debby Moore Mansfield is the July Resident of the Month. Debby is a great citizen of Desertscape who keeps her eyes and ears open when she is out walking her dogs at all hours. From mosquitos to intruders, Debby always takes the time to let the residents know through Facebook if there is something going on that we should be aware of.

Thank you Debby for the care and support you show for your neighbors.

July Home of the Month

Linda Wagner, your lovely home located at N-254 was chosen as the July Home of the Month. Please make sure to contact the office to arrange for your $50 rent credit.

Congratulations on a well-deserved win.

Debby Moore Mansfield

WOMEN’S CLUB

PRESIDENT Sheri Kramer

Saturday July 12th from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm the Women’s Club is hosting a Pie and Ice Cream Event.

Come down to the Clubhouse for a slice of your favorite pie (Cherry, Apple, Peach, etc.) and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The Phoenix Fire Department will be our guest speaker at this event.

They will be talking about the “City of Phoenix Lock Box Program”. Also the importance of a Smoke Detector in our homes.

Tickets will be $5.00 dollars a person and tickets will be sold at the clubhouse. Tickets will go on sale July 1st to July 10th. The money that the Women’s Club raises at these events go towards our end of the year donations to local non-profit agency.

Upcoming Women’s Club Events:

• August 9, 2025 Women’s Club is planning on a Rock Painting Event.

• More information about this event will be coming in the next month.

• September 13, 2025 Women’s Club is still working in what type of event we will have.

• October 11, 2025 Will be the Women’s Club fall Wine & Cheese Event.

Thank You, Sheri Kramer

Women’s Club President

Desertscape July Birthdays

Wishing all of our residents with July birthdays a year of good health and happiness.

2nd ........................................ RICHARD HON 3rd .................................. VERNON MAQUIRE 5th DIANA LASKY

5th ......................................... GAIL BRAZELL 6th NANCY SCHULING 7th .................................... DOTTIE CARROLL 7th PAUL BURKE 9th ..................................... SHEILA THOMAS 19th .................................. VANEDDIE JONES 19th JOE KUZMICK

22nd ............................... MARVIN FITCHETT

25th MARY HELEN MATSON

27th .................................. DONALD RECHEK

28th JACK SHATTO

29th ....................................... MIKE PADILLA

30th ........... SHERRY LOUISE RUBIN-SAVAGE

Do you have a neighbor that could be recognized as the Resident of the Month? How about that dog or cat that you see all the time and want it to be recognized also? We are looking for you to be part of your newsletter and we would like to continue these two sections. Please email dscassociation@yahoo.com to nominate your favorite pet. However, if we can’t get nominations we may replace the sections with something else.

GOOD TIMES at Desertscape

Happy times come and go, but the memories stay forever. Enjoy our collection of photos featuring Desertscape events and residents!

JUNE BIRTHDAY BASH

MEMORIAL DAY BBQ

Recipe of the Month

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 slices sourdough bread, torn into pieces

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 10 to 12 cups chopped romaine lettuce

• kosher salt and pepper

• 1/3 cup finely grated parmesan cheese

• 1/3 cup shaved parmesan cheese

• 12 ounces cheese tortellini, cooked

GREEK YOGURT CAESAR DRESSING:

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 tablespoons greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar

• 1 teaspoon anchovy paste

• 1/2 lemon, juiced

• kosher salt and pepper

• 1/3 cup olive oil

Cheese Tortellini Caesar Salad

Recipe courtesy of How Sweet Eats

Yield: 4 | Prep Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

This cheese tortellini caesar salad is irresistible! Crisp romaine lettuce, greek yogurt caesar dressing, shaved parmesan and crunchy croutons are tossed with tender cheese tortellini. It’s a perfect side dish or base for your favorite protein!

Instructions

1. Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in the sourdough pieces with a pinch of salt. Cook, tossing often, until they are golden and toasty and crisp. Turn off the heat.

2. Place the romaine in a large bowl and toss with a big pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle with a few tablespoons of the caesar dressing. Add in the finely grated parmesan. Toss the lettuce well so everything is coated. Add in the cooked tortellini and gently toss so the pasta doesn’t get smashed, adding more dressing if you would like. Toss until everything is combined and well coated.

3. Top with the shaved parmesan and the sourdough croutons. Serve with extra dressing and more parmesan cheese. You can use this as a base salad for chicken, steak, salmon, chickpeas, etc.

GREEK YOGURT DRESSING

To make the dressing, add the garlic, yogurt, parmesan, mustard, vinegar, anchovy paste, lemon juice, salt and pepper to a food processor or blender and blend until pureed. With the processor still on, stream in the olive oil until a creamy dressing forms. (This may make more dressing than needed, but you can store it sealed in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days and stir well before using.)

MESSAGE FROM DESERTSCAPE’S SALES ASSOCIATE, Twila Dawson

Summer is heating up – and so is the excitement in our community.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, July 12th and join us for a special Red, White and Blue Bar-B-Que and Open House at Home Site C-93! Come check out a beautiful new home and enjoy delicious sliders and beverages with your neighbors. This is the perfect time to kick back, relax and celebrate summer together.

Where: New home site C-93. When: 11:00-1:00 Saturday, July 12th. What: Open House & BBQ featuring sliders and drinks. Who: You!! All residents are welcome.

*Don’t forget – Our Referral Program is Hot Too!*

Know someone who is looking for a new place to call home? Refer them to our community and you could earn up to $2,500.00!

$2,500 for a referral who purchases a brand-new home

$1,000 for a referral who purchases a pre-owned home

(minimum $10,000 purchase price)

Just make sure they mention your name when they come by!

Let’s make this summer unforgettable – good food, great neighbors and maybe even some extra cash in your pocket. See you on July 12th!

Warmly, Twila Dawson Resort Home Specialist O- 602-943-5833 M- 308-520-6132 TDawson@cobblestoneassets.com

July Pet of the Month

Hi – my name is CJ. I’m fourand one-half years old and my people are Tom and Phyllis Pawlak. I am a pretty big kitty. I am part Maine Coon and part devil. I love to be brushed but beware if I get overstimulated – I do bite, just ask my Mom. Bedtime is treat time so I do like bedtime. I’m a social kitty and greet everyone that comes in my house with a nose kiss and a head bump.

By Mary Jane Caraher

I would like to thank everyone listed below who helped fold the Newsletters on Friday, May 30th. You were a big help and I appreciate your work. Many hands makes the job go faster, so thank you everyone who folded and to those of you who delivered the newsletters in the heat of the day.

Mary M. Richard H.

Judi D. Ron L.

Helen Patrick B.

Hank J.C

Allison

THE GARDEN GUYS,

brought to you by your neighbors, Michael and Dan at C-111

July, and once again its summertime here in the Sonoran Desert.

In spite of the heat, new growth and blossoms are everywhere.

Gardening with native plants is not only growing in popularity, but these naïve plants are also the foundations of local ecosystems that provide essential food and shelter for wildlife. Over thousands of years these plants have adapted to our harsh desert conditions. These plants have had the chance to evolve with local climate conditions and are more resilient to weather extremes than nonnative varieties. Once established, these “natives” typically thrive with minimal care. From vibrant, complex flowers to billowing grasses, native plants can create diverse and visually appealing gardens that will change throughout the year. The tough, waxy leaves of the “Creosote” bush, the hairy leaves of “Brittlebush” and the thick outer coating and spines on cacti are adaptations to the environment. Some desert trees and the “Ocotillo” can drop their leaves in times of water stress. In an extreme drought, “Palo Verde” trees can go one step further, cutting off the water supply to specific limbs which will then dry up and break off. The leaves of the “Jojoba” are angled vertically, minimalizing the leaf surface that is exposed to direct sunlight. Most desert plants are light green or grey colored in order to reflect sunlight.

Perhaps the most amazing adaptation of desert plants is their ability to extract moisture from seemingly dry soils. Even soils that appear parches still contain a certain amount of water. Native plants are able to pull those water molecules from the soil. One big problem for most nondesert plants is that they do not have the ability to retrieve the water from our desert soil.

Desert adapted, or native plants have efficient structures that gather and sore water to use as they need it. Other adaptations protect the plants from the sun, minimize water loss, enhance water storage abilities and increase the plants capability to extract nutrients from the soil. These are excellent qualities for plants in any landscape, and they are particularly useful for beginning gardeners as the plants require much less care and maintenance. Always include desert-adapted plants in your landscape and enjoy their magic.

Many problems that some homeowners experience with landscape plants are a result of putting the wrong type of plant in a particular location. Spend a little time examining your landscape’s characteristics and researching plants that will naturally thrive in that situation will translate into less maintenance on your part once the plant is established.

One of your best bets for summer color is the “Baja Fairy Duster” (botanical name: “Calliandra Californica”), Native to Baja, California and the Sonoran Desert, this plant has a fern-like foliage and feather flowers that give this shrub a very soft texture. The “Baja Fairy Duster” grows to 2-6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety. This irregular, upright form of the plant is best suited for informal shrub borders and containers. Requires little to moderate water once established. It performs well in the Phoenix summer heat and can bloom nearly all year-long.

Perhaps the showiest variety would be the “Mexicali Rose”. Reaching a height of 4-foot, this plant has a bright red bloom from March to November. It grows well in either rocky or sandy soil. The naturally dense and bushy form of the “Mexicali Rose” requires virtually no pruning or maintenance. This plant is a shining star in any garden. What more could one ask for?

So, keep those flowers blooming. Keep those weeds pulled. Keep your garden neat and you too can be that shining star! After all, don’t you deserve it?

Happy Gardening!

Michael and Dan C-111

Mexicali Rose fairy duster

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

SERVICES:

MEDICAL:

Do you know someone who is sick or in the hospital? Let Leslie Nielsen know, and she will send them a card. Contact Leslie N. 602-708-7754.

The Medical Equipment Lending Closet will continue to be handled by the Association. For assistance contact: Gail Brazell 602-327-7125.

GIVING HAND:

OPERATION CHRISTMAS SHOE BOXES THROUGH

SAMARITAN PURSE: My family packs these boxes every year in Payson, generally, we pack 300 to 400 boxes each year. We would greatly appreciate any of the items I have listed below:

• Shoe boxes up to size 10, stuffed animals, pencils, erasers, pencil sharpeners

• Hats, socks, washcloths and Ivory bar soap, combs and toothbrushes.

• $10.00 for shipping around the world. Thank you so much, Carol Sparks B162

SOLDIER’S ANGELS DONATIONS: Please join me in supporting our military and veterans. I have supported our military and veterans through Soldier’s Angels since 2005. My particular involvement is sending cards and letters. I write to you to join or help me help them by donating greeting cards. The cards can be on any subject or blank. Please feel free to write your own message inside the card if you’d like to. Also appreciated are craft store gift cards and cash donations to purchase supplies and postage stamps for mailing bulk packages to Chaplains.

SoldiersAngels.org

Thanks a lot for your support!

Sheila Thomas A190

RESOURCES:

TEMPORARY A/C UNITS: The Desertscape/Cobblestone Team oversees the management and distribution of the portable a/c units in the park. If you need one of the loaner units contact the office at 602-943-5833. For after-hours help, call Bill Hegwood at 720-224-5190. You may also email the office to request a unit.

Peter - desertscape@cobblestoneassets.com

COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCIES OR PROGRAMS: Administrated through counties, cities, councils of government, and private non-profit organizations. They provide a variety of services:

* Emergency Financial Assistance

* Utility Assistance

* Utility and Discount programs

* Rental/Mortgage Assistance

* Housing Repair, Rehabilitation and Weatherization

* Food Boxes and Other Food and Nutrition Programs

* Case Management

* Advocacy and Referrals

* Childcare/Head Start

* Housing and Homeless Assistance

https://www.aaaphx.org/area-agency-on-agingprograms/ OR CALL 602-264-4357

https://wildfireaz.org/find-help/community-actionagencies/ OR CALL 602-604-0640