Fall 2013

Your HOA Staff Letter from the President Trails Update

Desert-Mountain-HOA.com 2 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com features 34 A Note from the Editor...... 4 President’s Letter...... 6 Club Membership Update . . . . 15 City Fire Station – Bond Update. . 16 Library Events . 18 Meetings Calendar ...... 21 Design Review News...... 22 Security Update...... 24 Cover Story Landscaping News. 26 Trails Update Ryan Larson announces the latest addition of two (2) new trails along The Arts . 28 [ with helpful hiking tips. [ Special Advertising Section. . . . 36 Contact Sheet...... 38

Manager’s Corner . . . . . 8 Bill Overton Executive Editor Improving Recievables Community Manager 8 Community Manager Bill Overton provides Dana Bondon an overview of the collections process Managing Editor and an update on the current number of Executive Assistant accounts in collection and foreclosure. Shelley Glasow Schadowsky Creative Director Treasurer’s Report...... 10 Maintaining a High Level of Fiscal Responsibility Contributing Writers DMMA Treasurer, Ryan Larson Bill Fultz John Gelvin provides an overview of 2013 Finances Jeff Penney ryan Larson and the 2014 Budget. ellen Rundle Bill Overton Bruce Spilka JT Elbracht

Operations Overview . . . . 12 The Desert Mountain Connection is designed to help Advantages of a Chip Seal Process you feel connected to Desert Mountain whether or Operations Coordinator Bruce Spilka not you are residing in the community. Submis- explains the reasoning behind utilizing a sions of community news, articles or photography for The Desert Mountain Connection should be sent 10 Chip Seal process for road maintenance to [email protected]. The Desert Mountain within Desert Mountain. Connection is not responsible for the return of unsolic- ited materials. The advertising contained herein does Community News ...... 14 not represent the endorsement of the Desert Moun- tain Master Association. Reproduction, in whole or Desert Mountain Foundation Update in part, without written permission is prohibited. The year’s DMCF scholars are announced! The Desert Mountain Connection is published by the Desert Mountain Master Association (HOA). Cover Story...... 32 The Desert Mountain Master Association is profession- Meet the HOA Staff ally managed by CCMC, Capital Consultants Manage- Cover Back row: Scott McVay, Vicky ment Corporation. Harjung, Tony DiGeronimo, Bill Printed in the USA. All Rights Reserved. Overton, Casey White, Dana Bondon, Copyright 2013, The Desert Mountain Connection. Trish Cardenas, Bill Fultz; Front Row: Please Recycle. Jacob Marshall, Jessica Smith, Bruce Spilka Desert-Mountain-HOA.com 3 Letter from the Editor Thanks to our Sponsors!

By Bill Overton, PCAM, Executive Editor, Community Manager is done in a fiscally prudent way through ad sales. Thank you This Fall 2013 issue marks our tenth publication of the very much, everyone, for all of your kind words. Desert Mountain Master Association’s magazine, the Desert It is interesting to note that several of our advertisers Mountain Connection. have been loyal partners of our magazine efforts from the When Staff and the Master Board launched the Desert very beginning. Mountain Connection in early 2011, our goals were as follows: • First - to provide timely, regular, informative, and transpar- Greg Sertich with American Royal Sedan ent communication to all Desert Mountain property owners Rich Kovacich with Faux Finishes Incorporated on HOA items and matters of community interest, and Jim Dellaripa with Arizona Wild Desert Landscape • Secondly - to cover all publication costs of the magazine Al Trufin with Top Performance Cleaning Services through the reasonable sale of advertising. Barrett Haberer with Desert Lifestyle Management Cynthia and James Kolander with Desert Mountain Rentals Based on the owner compliments we regularly receive about The Connection, we are performing well in both areas so Also, many additional advertisers have joined us along the far. You and your neighbor owners tell us that they appreci- way and are with us virtually every issue. A complete listing of ate the communication on all topics, and are grateful that it all advertisers in this issue of The Connection is as follows:

A-Agents Inspections Faux Finishes Russ Lyon Sotheby’s American Royal Sedan Happy Tails Pet Sitting Salon Mila Arizona Wild Desert Landscape Kolander Properties Scottsdale Fine Art Gallery Best Pool Service & Repair Merrill Lynch, Bob Hollinger Studio C, A Beauty Lounge Cabinet Nurse - Jen Owner Services Business Tanner Chiropractic Chris Mellon & Company Phil Nichols Company Tim Kline Roofing City Capital Priceless Plumbing Top Performance Cleaning Services Desert Lifestyle Management Prompt Window Cleaning Turnstyle Consignment Desert Mountain Club Prudential Properties - Salkow Tyrol Insurance Agency Dick Lloyd Custom Homes PSI Window Cleaning Ward North American Doty Bridge Quick N Clean Windsor Landscape

Thank you to ALL of our advertisers for their support, and whenever you can. We want this to be a win / win relation- for making the Desert Mountain Connection possible each ship for all parties. You get great service at reasonable prices quarter. from good and well established vendors, while our advertis- Please do your part by patronizing all of our advertisers ers grow their businesses at DM and prosper. n

4 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 5 President’s Letter Summer Progress at Desert Mountain

Summer is not a slow time for the Desert Mountain Master Association (the HOA). Though many of our residents travel away from the Community from May through Oc- tober to escape the Arizona heat, your Board, Committees, and Staff have kept very busy on your behalf.

Of primary focus these last few months has been the draft- ros along the Parkway, and for the addition of supplemental ing of the 2014 Master Association Budget. As always, our plantings at the Main Entry. Both of these projects are within Budget Process has been a team effort. the parameters of the Master Association’s Operating Budget Staff has worked all year to refine Operational Best Prac- and are slated for implementation in October. tices and find cost efficiencies. Our primary vendor service Additionally, the Landscape Committee has also recom- providers – Capital Consultants Management Corporation mended to the Board that our bridge walls along the Park- (CCMC), DLC Resources, and Anderson Security - have way (we call them the “Jersey Barriers”) be improved and worked hard to contain costs. Our Treasurer, Ryan Larson, brought up to the same standard as the walls just outside the has worked closely with Staff on early iterations of the Draft Main DM Entry Gate, at the Parkway Bridge just below the 2014 Budget and the Master Board has conducted two Open left turn into the CG Club, and at our Village Entries. The Board Meetings focused primarily on this topic. I am pleased Committee’s recommendation is that ALL Desert Mountain to report that all of this hard work has paid off and that Parkway walls be up to the same high standard as these major your Board has approved a 2014 budget providing for a 2% focal points. The Board believes this to be an excellent, Master Association assessment increase, an amount generally volunteer driven idea and is supportive of the concept! A in line with inflation which will help us to further bolster our variety of stonework approaches to this improvement are in Reserve Fund balances. the process of being researched by Staff. The Board hopes to For more information on this topic, please see Ryan Lar- act on this matter at the October 28th Board Meeting, with son’s Treasurer’s Report on page 10 of this issue of the Desert implementation if approved to begin during the first quarter Mountain Connection. of 2014. Trails Construction has been very active in recent months On behalf of the entire Master Board, we hope everyone and we now have two (2) new trails to add to our system, had a great summer. We look forward to welcoming you back The Tonto Ridge Overlook and Grapevine Wash Trails. to the Mountain this fall and hope you enjoy the improve- Both trails are now open for use. Please take a map and hike ments made to the Community. n with caution as these trails are not yet marked with signage. For more detailed information on where we are with the Trails Development Process, please see the Trails Committee article on page 34 of this issue of The Connection. Maintaining the beauty of our Community is always a key goal and focus of the Master Board. One of the ways the Board does this is to work with the Landscape Committee on President key projects that improve and maintain our common areas. Desert Mountain Master Association To that end the Board has supported the planting recom- mendations by the Committee to add more trees and sagua-

6 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 7 Manager’s Corner Improving Receivables At its June 24th Meeting, the Master Board referred 11 chronically delinquents accounts to the Association’s attorney for collection action. These 11 accounts totaling $68,787 in delinquent Master Association assessments are the first collections referred to counsel in more than ten years, and will be aggressively pursued by our attorney. We hope to have court judgments in place as the first major step of that process by the end of October.

In truth, 11 such unresolved collec- obligations. tion accounts in the context of more The results of the modified and more Delinquency Rate History than 2,400 overall owner members rep- personable collections program, when 2008 – 5% resents a very small problem. In light combined with an overall stabilization 2009 – 3.5% of our progress in recent years in the of the economy, have been positive. 2010 – 2.4% area of collections, the Master Board Current delinquencies for 2013 are 2011 – 2% asked that I write an article updating projected at less than 1% and Foreclo- 2012 – 1.5% the membership about this issue. This sures for 2013 are currently running at 2013 – <1% Manager’s Corner is that requested 12 (10 actual Foreclosures YTD plus (projected as of 8.31.2013) article. another 2 Trustees Sales Pending as of Back in 2008 when the economy this writing). Foreclosure History began to struggle, both delinquencies For some perspective, the reduc- 2009 - 120 and foreclosures in Desert Mountain tion of the Delinquency Rate from the 2010 - 80 began to increase dramatically as they projection of 5% in 2008 to less than 2011 - 49 did in all HOAs in Arizona and around 1% today equates to an infusion of 2012 - 13 the United States. In 2008 alone the as- about $120,000 per year in positive cash 2013 - 12 sociation was facing a projected Delin- flow for the Association. This truly is (projected as of 8.31.2013) quency Rate in excess of 5% along with good news for all HOA members as it is an estimated 120 properties facing pos- more equitable for all that do pay their sible foreclosure. It is worthy to note assessments on time and helps reduce As you can see, your HOA is on very that a 5% Delinquency Rate equated at pressure on future assessment increases solid ground in this area. Please call me that time to approximately $125,000 in from this area of the Budget. on my Direct Line at 480.595.4222 any uncollected revenue. time we at the HOA can be of service. n The Master Board asked me for recommendations to improve our collections process and, after some thought and perspective, my response was to implement a more personal approach to our collections work with the Association’s owners. The main Bill Overton, PCAM aspect of this approach was to add Community Manager personal collection letters and phone calls from me, as Community Manager, to the process that had previously used form letters. The Board also allowed me wide latitude to work out payment plans with delinquent owners that were going through tough financial times but still wanted to take care of their DM 8 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 9 Treasurer’s Report Maintaining A High Level of Fiscal Responsibility

By Ryan Larson, Treasurer, DMMA One of the Master Board’s goals for 2013 was to “maintain a high level of fiscal responsi- bility”. We carried this focus over from 2012 based in large part on the feedback we received from our owner members. The message the Master Board heard has been clear: you want good, consistent and ever improving HOA service, but you also want attentive management of expenditures, careful regard of future HOA assessment increases, and wise accumulation of capital reserves over time. I am happy to report that we are succeeding in all of these areas. Expenditure Management 2014 Budget As I write this article, we have not yet closed the books Staff and the Master Board have worked to tightly con- for September. However, the financial results of the Master trol expenses and the results described above indicate this Association are performing very well against budget year to effort has been successful. In budgeting for 2014, the Master date, through the August reporting period. A few highlights: Association is planning for an increase in dues of 2%, an Delinquencies remain very low compared to both budget amount roughly equivalent to the current inflation rate. This and recent prior years. This is good for the financial health will allow us to increase our Reserve Funding. Operational of both the Master and all Village Associations in Desert expenses will be held constant from 2103 to 2014. There Mountain. Our Community Manager, Bill Overton, has are two main drivers of our success in holding operational written an excellent article on this matter in his Manager’s expenses flat for the last two years: Corner if you would like more information on this positive 1. Strong expense management focus by the Staff. Several op- news. erational efficiencies have been identified by our Manage- Design Review and Construction Access Income are both ment Team that have enabled us to keep service levels high ahead of budget year to date. This is a good indicator that lot or improved, without needing to significantly increase our owners and homebuilders are optimistic on Desert Moun- semi-annual assessments. tain’s future. It also benefits the finances of the Master As- 2. Our three primary service providers have kept their contractual sociation. We maintain a conservative budget practice toward rates flat for us at 2013 levels with no fee increases for 2014. these items so as not to repeat the unhappy surprises of some We offer our thanks to CCMC (our community manage- years in the past. ment firm), DLC Resources (our landscape maintenance and All major expense categories are at or under budget year to management company), and Anderson Security (our guard and date. This validates our conservative yet realistic budget ap- patrol service provider) for working with us so constructively proach, as well as the sound day to day expense management and collaboratively to hold costs down on an ongoing basis, by our Staff and the Master Board. while continuing to provide a high level of service. Reserve Funding for major future capital needs (primarily road repair and replacement) remains on track according to Reserves our professional Reserve Study. The investments backing When I am out and about in Desert Mountain, whether these reserves remain safe. One of the initiatives I will lead on the golf course, on the trails, at the Dog Park, or in the in the coming months, along with Staff and our management restaurants, I am often asked by fellow residents about our company CCMC, is a strategy to improve the rate of return Reserves. Common questions include: we earn on the investments backing our reserves while not Are we adequately funded for our future capital needs? sacrificing the safety of principal we currently enjoy. There is Are the investments backing these Reserves safe and well more on the subject of Reserves later in this article. protected? The Owner Services Business remains profitable, including Our strategy in building these Reserve funds is to me- reasonable allocations for Operational Overhead approved by thodically and systematically set aside funds for large known our auditor. future expenditures, primarily for roads. Our goal is to have Financial results for all Unincorporated Villages are on or sufficient funds on hand when those large expenses are due, better than budget YTD as well. without needing to levy special assessments. Because of the 10 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Treasurer’s Report size of the payments, and the length of time until they are due, this process is much like an employer funding the future pension payments for its retiring employees. Certainly, we want to avoid having “unfunded liabilities”! The Master Association’s current total Reserve Balance is ap- proximately $2.5 million. The primary purpose of this Reserve is to replace Desert Mountain Parkway around the year 2020 and have all the funds to do so at that point in time. Our plan is to fully fund the contributions to these Reserves from our Operating Account that is funded by your semi-annual HOA assessment payments made each January and July. The avoidance of such a possible Spe- cial Assessment is an ongoing and major operational management imperative for both Staff and your Master Board. The 2% Master Association assessment increase for 2014 allows us to continue bolstering Reserve Funding as part of our funding strategy. Reserve Funding is the result of much careful analysis and study. At periodic intervals, typically every two to four years, the Master Board commissions an independent reserve study. An RFP is created by Staff and competitive bids are solicited from professionals with significant experience in this area. The prevailing bidder is hired and conducts an inspection of our capital needs and our assets. The remaining useful life-spans and replacement costs of the roads and all other component parts are then determined. All resulting data is then applied to a comput- erized model that assists Staff and the Board in creating a Fund- ing Plan to meet our future capital replacement needs. Reserve Funding decisions made by the Master Board take into account the information coming out of this Study and Staff’s subsequent updates. It is my personal view that our overall Reserve Process is a sophisticated, professional, and appropriate way to go about funding these future capital projects. n

Note: The Master Association bears the full cost for Administration and Drainage Maintenance, therein none of these costs are charged to the Vil- lages (incorporated and unincorporated) as is the case with other expense elements. Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 11 Operations Overview The Advantages of a Chip Seal Process By: Bruce Spilka, Operations Coordinator During our recent chip seal work on Desert Hills Drive and in the Villages of Rose Quartz, Mountain Skyline, and Gambel Quail (including The Preserve) a couple of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) have arisen:

1. Why are we using a chip seal pro- square yard while a new road costs $40 fresh slurry seal coat. Because of this it cess? Why not use an overlay process per square yard (i.e. - the new road is best to wait until October when the or just install a new roadway surface? option is 6.5 times more expensive). weather cools to apply the final slurry 2. Why are we doing the slurry coat In short, if we installed new roads seal coat in the Villages. Desert Hills now on Desert Hills Drive, but wait- now, a Special Assessment of between Drive has no cul de sacs or tight turns ing until October to do the slurry $15,000 and $20,000 per owner would so it is not a problem to apply the coats in Rose Quartz, Mountain need to be levied. By utilizing the chip slurry coat in June. Given that Desert Skyline, and Gambel Quail (includ- seal process at this time we can fund Hills Drive is a main community road- ing The Preserve)? all projects (recent seal coats AND fu- way, and with no risk to the finished ture road replacement) from reserves product from a summer application, The primary reason that we are that are part of your normal semi- it was decided to proceed in June to using the chip seal process on our annual HOA fees and avoid the issue complete this job in the earliest pos- aging roadway surfaces is that road of Special Assessments entirely. sible time frame. engineers have told us that it is Therefore, your Boards and Staff all The Villages of Rose Quartz, Moun- absolutely the best application for believe that using the chip seal process tain Skyline, Gambel Quail and Gam- dealing with our roadway cracking is the best thing to do for current road bel Quail Preserve will be scheduled problems short of constructing a new conditions, is the best option to extend for a slurry seal application during the road. Chip seals have come a long way the useful life of Desert Mountain’s weeks of October 14 – November 2. n over the years and now use polymers roads, and is the most fiscally prudent in their oil based bonding mixture course of action. The specific schedule* is as follows: for stronger and longer lasting adhe- The answer to the slurry seal ques- sion. Chip Seals are used in numerous tion is simple. The village cul de sacs states, cities, and all over the Phoenix and sharp angled turns are problem- metropolitan area and are an accepted atic from a drying standpoint with this Maricopa County of Governments product during (MAG) Standard road maintenance the hot summer Mountain Skyline procedure. months. Large 10/14 – 10/17 A secondary reason to utilize the trucks making chip seal process is one of tight turns Rose Quartz economics – a chip seal with can leave a slurry coat costs $6 per marks in a 10/16-10/18 & 10/21-10/22

Gambel Quail 10/22-10/25 & 10/28-10/31

*Subject to weather changes 12 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 13 Community News

Desert Moutain Community Foundation Scholarship Program The Board of Advisors of the Desert Mountain Commu- tain members, members of the DMCF Advisory Board and a nity Foundation is pleased to announce the very first group of local education expert. Final review was done by the Scholar- Desert Mountain Community Foundation Scholars. Eleven ship Office staff from the Arizona Community Foundation. students, including three Desert Mountain employees and Several factors were considered in selecting the Scholars, eight employee family members, earned a total of $19,000 in with higher weight given to financial need and applicant essays DMCF scholarships for the 2013-2014 academic year. We are about their future plans and goals. Other factors included aca- also proud that one scholar received an additional award of demic achievement and demonstrated community service. $2,000 from another ACF scholarship fund. The awards from Applicants were reviewed by Kelli Greenberg, Director of DMCF ranged from $1,000 to $3,000 each. Human Resources for the Desert Mountain Club, to verify The scholarships are provided through the Desert Moun- their relationship to a Desert Mountain employee. Review- tain Community Foundation Scholarship Fund administered ers used an objective scoring system to select the winning through a partnership with the Arizona Community Founda- applicants. A total of 19 applications were submitted and the tion. The Scholars were selected through an application process 11 selected had the highest scores. by a volunteer review panel which included two Desert Moun- This year’s DMCF Scholars are:

• Lal Biak Vul, daughter of Khaw Community Foundation scholarship • Lauren Lehrner, Desert Mountain Za Sun Thang, Geronimo Equip- allowed him to access this other op- employee: Sonoran Boutique Super- ment Operator I. Lal plans to attend portunity as well. visor / Tennis Assistant. Lauren will Greenville Technical College in • Justin Dantine, Son of Janet Chris- be attending ASU to obtain a Mas- Greenville, S.C. where she will tie, Beverage Cart Attendant. Jus- ter’s degree in criminal justice where purpose a career in health care. Khaw tin plans to attend Paradise Valley she will focus on juvenile justice and is a Burmese refugee and has been in Community College to study wildlife youth advocacy. Currently, Lauren the United States since spring 2010. conservation. holds a Master’s Degree in Creative • Makella Brems, daughter of Mary • Alexander Gonzalez, son of Bernie Writing. Brems, Desert Mountain Youth Ac- Gonzalez, Desert Mountain Ren- • Wendie Marlais, Desert Moun- tivities Coordinator. Makella plans to egade Restaurant Manager and Jose tain employee: Pilates Instructor. attend Claremont McKenna College Gonzalez, Desert Mountain Club Wendy plans to complete her work to study Neurology. She is a longtime Maintenance Team Leader. Alexan- as a Pilates Instruction Facilitator at competitive soccer player and will der plans to attend Grand Canyon the Ron Fletcher Program of Study. continue playing with her college team. University with a goal of working to- Wendie left a vibrant career in the • Brett Cunningham, Desert Moun- wards a Master’s degree in Business. corporate world as a Publicist and tain employee: Employee Supervisor, • Kaylah Klimuck, daughter of Marketing Executive to pursue a outside services at Cochise Geronimo Sharon Klimuck, Banquet Captain. dream of helping others live longer Club House. Brett plans to attend Kaylah plans to attend Everest Col- and healthier lives. Scottsdale Community College as a lege in Phoenix to study nursing. • Shelby Pike, daughter of Marianne first step to getting a Master’s degree Her father, Ken Klimuck, a former Arko, Desert Mountain Accountant. in Business. Desert Mountain employee, spent Shelby plans to attend Arizona State Brett was also awarded a scholar- several months hospitalized when University to pursue a career in busi- ship from another Arizona Commu- Kaylah was in her early teens. This ness public relations. nity Foundation Scholarship Fund. experience planted the seed of be- • Savannah Sappington, daughter Applying for his Desert Mountain coming a nurse. of Darren Sappington, Golf Course Heavy Equipment Foreman. Savan- nah will be completing her studies at Please send your tax-deductible donation to: Questions about the Desert Mountain Commu- Phoenix Christian High School. Desert Mountain Community Foundation nity Foundation can be addressed to: • Nicholas Ward, son of Alex Ward, Scholarship Fund Carol Parry Fox: 480.488.8546 or [email protected] Apache Golf Course Superintendent. c/o Arizona Community Foundation Ann Melsheimer: 480.488.2429 or [email protected] Attn: Edwin Knight Sheila Seaton: 602.319.1900 or [email protected] Nicholas is attending Arizona State 2201 E. Camelback Rd., Ste. 405B, Phoenix, AZ 85016 Sybil Yastrow: 480.488.0523 or [email protected] University with a goal of becoming a high school history teacher. Nicholas The Arizona Community Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) public charity, affording started taking college courses as a donors the maximum tax advantages for donations. Tax ID: 86-0348306. junior in high school. 14 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Community News

We would like to thank all of our donors who helped make these scholarships possible. We also send a special thank you to the family of Douglas Woods who suggested the DMCF Scholarship Fund as one of the charitable entities to make contribu- tions in his name. To continue this wonderful program, the Desert Mountain Community Foundation needs the support of the Desert Moun- tain community to further build the scholarship fund. The DMCF Board of Advisors hopes to raise at least another $100,000 this year and more in years to come. Please help support this effort to recognize our Desert Mountain and CCMC (HOA) employees for the great work they do for all of us by giving them and their families the educational and life opportunities that so many of us as members have enjoyed. New Desert Mountain Club Memberships

Desert Mountain Club recently launched a new Membership Marketing Program featuring three new membership opportunities for Desert Mountain’s non-member property owners, their families and guests. This program will provide access to the Club’s award-winning lifestyle amenities, all in their own backyard, and help enhance their Desert Moun- tain property values. These upgradable Lifestyle and Junior Memberships are new to the Mountain and offer superior value for the variety and quality of the golf, fitness, spa, dining, outdoor and social activities available at Desert Mountain.

Refer a Member, Equity Golf Membership Get a Reward $65,000 Starting Price for Initial Contribution All of the unparalleled amenities Desert Mountain has to offer are available to you. Desert Mountain offers this market-based membership at prices determined The Desert Mountain Member Re- by existing members who are on an Equity Golf Membership Reissuance List. ferral Program rewards members who support the Club by encouraging their Equity Club Membership-Lifestyle friends, family or business associates to $10,000 Initial Contribution become equity golf or club members. Now offered for the first time, this membership includes the use of the So- When a newly-issued member- noran Tennis Complex and fitness facilities, the spa, access to six clubhouses, ship is purchased from the Club by a nine restaurants and grills, hiking and biking trails and numerous social clubs. nominee referred by a Desert Moun- Golf privileges are not available, including the practice ranges and the Jim tain member, the Club will credit the Flick Golf Performance Center. This membership may be upgraded at any member’s account according to the time to an Equity Golf Membership. type of membership*: Equity Golf Membership-Junior Memberships: $5,000 Initial Contribution Equity Golf $3,500 This new membership is available to qualified applicants under 50 years of Equity Club-Lifestyle $1,000 age and offers a graduating dues structure and the opportunity to finance up Equity Golf-Junior $1,000 to $65,000 of the Equity Golf Membership contribution interest-free with an initial contribution as low at $5,000. An approved applicant may bid to pur- *Memberships purchased through a real chase a Junior Membership through the Membership Marketing Program de- estate sale do not apply. scribed above. All of the unparalleled amenities Desert Mountain has to offer To nominate a new member, either are available to you as a Desert Mountain Equity Golf-Junior member. Guest fill out a new member form by click- golf restrictions apply to this membership. Tee times may be made before 9 ing on the “Nominate New Member” a.m. and after10 a.m. in-season. Tee times are unrestricted out-of-season. link on the home page of the member website or contact Membership Rela- For more information about the new Desert Mountain Membership tions Director Nicole Forbes at 480- Marketing Program, please contact Membership Relations Director 595-4318 or [email protected]. Nicole Forbes at 480-595-4318 or [email protected]. n

Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 15 Community News

City of Scottsdale Special Election Support a Bond to support a permanent fire station assisting the Desert Mountain Community November 5, 2013

If you haven’t heard or read about in Question 2 Former City Councilman Wayne the newspaper, the City of Scottsdale PURPOSE: PUBLIC SAFETY Ecton has formed a Political Action has a Special Election on November AMOUNT: $43,700,000 Committee (PAC) to assist in educating 5, 2013. Part of this election is a Bond Shall the City of Scottsdale be au- voters. According to www.preservescott- that is considered near and dear to thorized to issue and sell not exceeding sdalesfuture.com the annual cost of the Desert Mountain – a permanent fire $43,700,000 principal amount of its bond will be $23.86 per $100,000 of as- station to assist in servicing the Desert bonds to provide funds to design, ac- sessed valuation of your home. Current- Mountain Community. This Station quire, construct, reconstruct, improve, ly, the General Fund lacks the amount would be located diagonally across furnish and equip the following public of funds needed to invest in the 39 Bond the street from the DM Construction safety projects: Radio System Upgrade; Projects - Desert Foothills Fire Station Entrance. The current fire station Police Civic Center Jail Consolidation; #613 being one of the Bond projects. (#616) along Cave Creek Road (next to Electronic Storage System Replace- You may visit the PAC website at Renegade) is a temporary structure. By ment; Improve and Upgrade Existing http://preservescottsdalesfuture.com/ passing this Bond a permanent station Fire Stations; Police Civic Center to learn more information regard- (#613) will be constructed. Station Expansion; Desert Foothills ing the Bonds, learn how to become Fire Station; Fire Training Facility involved with the Special Election, or Expansion; Public Safety Via Linda to donate and become a supporter. Facility Expansion; Desert Mountain Please take the time to vote – remem- Fire Station; and Purchase Land for ber your vote counts! Should you need VOTE > Fire Station? additional information or would like Payment of Bonds: The issuance of to request an early ballot, please visit The following information is what these bonds will result in a property the City of Scottsdale website at www. you will see under Question 2 on the tax increase sufficient to pay annual scottsdaleaz.gov/elections or you may upcoming Ballot. debt service on the bonds. call the City Clerk at 480-312-2411. n

16 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 17 Library Calendar

All of the events below take place at Desert When: 3 – 5 p.m., Tuesdays, Octo- Instructor: Elyse Ann Speen. Limited Foothills Library, which is located at 38443 ber 15 – November 19 (6 weeks) seating. Cost: $25, due when register- North Schoolhouse Road in Cave Creek, What: Bridge: Skill Building ing. Register: 480-488-2286 and are free, except where noted. For more For players with some experience information on these and other library who would like to improve their skills. When: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., Thursday, programs, please contact David Court or Players will continue to develop bridge October 10 Dereth DeHaan at 480-488-2286 or log skills and strategies and socialize while What: iPad: Setting It Up on to www.desertfoothillslibrary.org. playing in a beautiful atmosphere. Tour ALL the settings on an iPad and Supervised play will help illustrate get your iPad working well. Must bring more advanced conventions as they are your own iPad. When: Noon – 1 taught. If participants are interested, p.m., Tuesday, the instructor will teach the “new’ When: 1 – 3 p.m., Friday, October 1 standard in bridge - the 2 over 1 style November 1 What: Art Nosh of play. What: Desert Foothills Library Lunch: Phoenix Cost: $79 for 6-week series. Writers’ Connection Art Museum Travel Writing: Getting Your Reader from presents: TBD When: 3:30 - 5 p.m., Tuesday, Here to There. Join international travel October 15 writing and publishing authority Paula Enjoy a nosh while being educated What: Yappy Hour on the Terrace: with Cullison on a journey to becoming a suc- & entertained on a variety of art top- Special Guests from Canine Compan- cessful travel article writer. Highlights in- ics. For a complete list of scheduled ions for Independence® (CCI) clude Paula’s Top Twelve Travel Writing Art Nosh topics, visit www.dfla.org. Wine for humans, treats for the Tips, advice for incorporating your own Limited seating. Registration required pups...Join us, with your dog (or just travel photos into your articles, & a writ- at 480-488-2286. because you’re a dog-lover), mingle ing activity that illustrates how to use all Event is free. Order a boxed lunch out on the Waterfall Terrace, and enjoy five of your senses in your travel writing. provided by Grotto Café (Cost: $10, hearing about this unique program. Limited seating. Register: 480-488-2286. due when registering by Monday a.m. CCI is recognized worldwide, provid- prior to event date. Choose from 3 ing highly-trained assistance dogs for When: 10 – 11:30 a.m., Monday, menu items: ask at front desk or access children and adults for a wide range of November 4 menu at www.dfla.org.) OR brown bag disabilities, free of charge. Learn how What: World War II, a Legacy of it. Bottled water available for purchase. they make this happen and heartwarm- Letters: One Soldier’s Journey ing stories of how lives have been Clinton Frederick returned to his transformed – with the most advanced grandparents’ house for a family wedding in technology -- a cold nose and a warm 2002. In the attic, just as he’d remembered, When: 1 – 3 p.m., Tuesday, October 8 heart! RSVP requested to help plan for were memorabilia from WWII. In a trunk What: Let’s Play Poker! refreshments: 480-488-2286. under the rafters, Clinton made a discovery Dealers from Casino Arizona will that would change his life forever. Inside teach you the art of the game so that When: 1 – 3:30, Saturday, October 26 were more than hundred letters written by you can play to win! Learn the rules, What: Past Life Regression his father, Captain George Frederick. This casino etiquette, how to read the cards Have you ever met someone and correspondence chronicled from a most and when to hold’m/fold’m. Supervised felt like you’ve known that person personal standpoint some of the major play will follow the presentation. Lim- your entire life? Have you ever visited events that shaped the world. The letters ited seating. Register: 480-488-2286. a place for the first time and felt as if also allowed Clinton Frederick, for the first you’ve been there before? Have you time in his life, to know what his father was When: 1 – 3 p.m., Tuesday, October 8 experienced what you would describe really like. WWII - A Legacy of Letters, is a What: Journaling: Writing Through as déjà vu? Do you have a fear that has true story of love and war, and received The Chronic Pain no explainable cause? In this class, we American Author’s Association’s highest Bring your journal or notebook and will explore past lives, their purposes, rating. In it, Frederick discusses how he pen. Mary Lee Simpson is a certified and the effects a past life can have on artfully wove together his father’s letters journal facilitator and has taught thera- your present life. The group will also with historical information about some of peutic writing for nearly 20 years. Lim- participate in a guided meditation to the most important military campaigns of ited seating. Register: 480-488-2286. attempt to visit a past life in order to the war. Signed books will be available for a help gain insight into current life issues. special price: $10 cash only. 18 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com When: 1 – 3 p.m., Tuesday, This is an official eBay University class in our lives. The Holidays are right November 12 taught by multi-award winning eBay around the corner...Do you enjoy the What: Journaling: Managing Stress instructor and published author Kevin company of all of your relatives? Are at the Holidays Boyd. Optional eBooks available for you creating harmonious relationships Bring your journal or notebook and purchase. Lecture. with the people in your life, and most pen. Mary Lee Simpson is a certified Cost: $29, or Series Discount Pack- importantly, with yourself? Ro Rusnock, journal facilitator and has taught thera- age (eBay 1 & 2) $49 certified Feng Shui practitioner and peutic writing for nearly 20 years. Lim- owner of Elements and Energy, will be ited seating. Register: 480-488-2286. When: 12:30 – 3:30 p.m., Sunday, sharing Feng Shui Principles with you so November 17 you can have harmonious relationships When: 10 a.m. – Noon, Thursday, What: eBay 2 - Advanced Selling with every person in your life. November 14 ( Strategies! 2nd Thursday each month) Learn the “Insider Tips and Strate- When: 1 - 2 p.m., Thursday, What: I Cue: Literary Discussion gies” that will draw the most bids, November 21 Group maximize sales and beat your competi- What: Acupunture for Pain Management Participants share literary references tion. Covers how to find a profitable With Robert Koagedal, chief physi- and insights from both fiction and niche, what to sell, what to avoid and cian at AcuHealth Integrative Wellness non-fiction literature, with a different how to use Drop Shippers to mini- Center. Limited seating. Register: 480- theme each month. November Topic: mize inventory costs. Includes eBay 488-2286. Part of our “Ask the Expert” TBD. Questions? Email elepavlova@ research, marketing and photography Scottsdale Healthcare Series. mac.com. tips, eBay Stores, plus how to easily import and sell products direct from When: 8:45 – 9:45 a.m., Every Friday; When: Noon – 3 p.m., Saturday, 1,500 manufacturers in China. Op- CHAIR Class 10 – 10:30 a.m. November 16 tional eBooks available for purchase. What: Qigong/Tai Chi Easy What: eBay 1 - The Basics of Selling! Taught by multi-award winning eBay A discipline that can be practiced and Whether you simply want to clear instructor and published author Kevin benefits gained at any age – you are the closet, desire additional part-time Boyd. Lecture. never too old! A blending of Qigong income or a serious eBay business, this Cost: $29, or Series Discount Pack- and Tai Chi, with deep breathing and class is your foundation. Learn how to age (eBay 1 & 2) $49 repeated gentle motions and stretches set up an eBay Seller account, create to improve health, balance, agility and successful eBay listings, upload pictures When: 4 – 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, flexibility. The “Chair” class is for and accept credit card payments with November 20 anyone who wants to take it extra slow PayPal. Included are selling “Tips, What: Holiday Singles Mixer and and easy. Wear loose clothing and bare Tricks and the Traps” to avoid. Covers “Creating Harmonious Relationships” feet. NEW Registration Process: Call how to determine shipping costs, where Presentation or email instructor Bina Bou: 480-284- to get FREE shipping supplies, how to Join us for mingling and compli- 1300 or [email protected]. print shipping labels from your home mentary snacks and wine. Feng Shui Cost: Prepay instructor $20 cash for computer and get FREE home pickup. is about creating peace and tranquility 4 classes; or $8 drop-in.

Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 19 Library Calendar

When: 1 – 3 p.m., Friday, December 6 this year with new stories to entertain When: 1 – 3 p.m., Tuesday, (1st Friday each month) and jumpstart your Friday night with December 10 What: Desert Foothills Library laughs. Limited seating. Payment due What: Journaling: No-Cost Holiday Writers Connection with reservation at 480-488-2286. Pro- Gifts from your Journal Writing Through Revelations, Vi- ceeds benefit the Library. Bring your journal or notebook and sions and Dreams. Learn how to create Cost: $10 includes the show and a pen. Mary Lee Simpson is a certified unique, empowering work by exploring complimentary glass of wine or iced tea. journal facilitator and has taught thera- the individual parameters of your own peutic writing for nearly 20 years. Lim- “internal landscapes.” American Book When: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday, ited seating. Register: 480-488-2286. Award winner Stella Pope Duarte leads December 7 a thought-provoking workshop in which What: 4th Annual Desert Foothills When: 4 – 5:30 p.m., Friday, you’ll discover how to use symbols, codes Library Craft, Book & Bake Sale December 20 & “blurred images” to connect with your Celebrate the season with handmade What: Heard Museum Guild presents: wondrous “writer within” and to reveal gifts and baked goodies for everyone Beautiful Resistance II your personal “language of the soul”. on your list! Enter a raffle drawing. A Exploring the “traditional” American Limited seating. Register: 480-488-2286. portion of proceeds benefits Desert Indian painting style. Enjoy a nosh while Foothills Library. being educated & entertained. Cheese When: 4 – 5:30 p.m., Friday, and complimentary wine will be served. December 6 When: 10 a.m. – Noon, Tuesday, For a complete list of scheduled Art What: Holiday Comedy Happy Hour December 10 Nosh topics, visit www.dfla.org. Limited (tentative) What: Fiction Book Club: seating. Register: 480-488-2286. Funny and insightful, award-winning Holiday lunch and guest authors. Cost: $10, due when registering. solo artist Raleigh Pinskey returns Everyone welcome! ottled water available for purchase.

20 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Meetings Calendar - Fall/Winter 2013

• Monday, September 30, 3:00 pm 2014 Master Budget Presentation Sunset Terrace

• Monday, October 28, 3:00 pm Master Quarterly Board Meeting Sunset Terrace

• Monday, December 2, 3:00 pm Master Quarterly Board Meeting Sunset Terrace

• Monday, January 27, 3:00 pm Master Annual Board Meeting master board Sunset Terrace

• Monday, October 14, 3:00 pm HOA

• Monday, November 18 (tentative), 3:00 pm HOA council of pres.

Design Review Meetings are scheduled on the first and third Thursday of every month. Please note: October’s schedule will be October 10th and Oc- tober 24th. Meetings occur at 8:00am at the HOA Office, which is located at 10550 East Desert Hills Drive. Please call 480-595-4221 to be included on design the meeting schedule.

The Arizona Community Foundation and the Desert Mountain Community Foundation thank all of the Desert Mountain members who contributed a total of more than $35,000 to the Yarnell Disaster Relief Fund. These funds will support the community recovery and re-building efforts in Yarnell, with grants being awarded in mid-September. For up to date information on this Fund, go to www.azfoundation.org and sign up for ENews. Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 21 Design Review

Choosing a Qualified Architect to Design Your Home in Desert Mountain – JT Elbracht, Design Review Consultant The design philosophy and constraints and will of Desert Mountain is the harmonize and enhance the sensitive integration of design of the Residence and the lifestyle of man to the site improvements with the natural Sonoran Desert natural and manmade sur- environment. Its goal is the roundings. In addition, an subtle blending of people, experienced Architect will structures and the existing be able to smoothly navi- desert into a harmonious gate the Desert Mountain and aesthetically pleasing Design Review Process; community with substantial saving time and resources emphasis on the preserva- for the Owner. tion of the natural desert as a unifying theme. Selecting Your Virtually all homesites Architect in Desert Mountain enjoy Choose your Architect wonderful views of the at least as carefully as you mountains and spectacular would your dentist or doc- views of city lights. The desert terrain is varied, consisting tor. Factors such as overall experience, Desert Mountain of desert foothills, ravines, washes, and rock outcroppings, experience, technical competence, personality, and avail- all of which are complemented by a beautiful Sonoran able staff resources will be important to your decision. Desert landscape. A thorough knowledge of the Desert Why is it Important to Hire a Qualified Mountain Design Guidelines is critical and and Experienced Architect? will prove to be beneficial . A set of Design Guidelines has been established to When speaking with an Architect, special attention implement the design philosophy of successfully integrat- should be given to the following areas in the design of a ing people and structures into the desert so as to achieve Residence: a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing community while preserving the natural beauty of the desert. (a) topographic and slope conditions Good architecture is the result of a creative Owner, a (b) Location of the Building Envelope and setbacks talented Architect, a sound understanding of basic prin- (c) View orientation ciples of quality architectural design, and an in-depth (d) natural vegetation and rock outcroppings knowledge of the environmental and community context. (e) natural drainage patterns Creative architecture at Desert Mountain requires appro- (f) Visibility from other parts of the Community priately blending the architecture into the desert environ- (g) Location of neighbors or potential neighbors ment and community context. To accomplish this objec- (h) Orientation and visibility from the golf course tive, a qualified Architect with proven quality experience at Desert Mountain is more apt to focus their attention on Architects and architectural firms come in a variety of special design needs such as; proper massing, site integra- sizes and types. Each Architect brings their own combi- tion, proportion, texture, color, height, materials, lighting nation of skills, expertise, interests, and values to their and landscape. projects. All good Architects will listen to you and trans- An Architect that is experienced at Desert Mountain late your ideas into a viable construction project. Look for and understands the process will design your home in a a good listener and you’ll find a good Architect. manner that will blend with the natural backdrop and will comply with the spirit and intent of the Design Guide- Some FAQ’s to Consider: lines, as well as the technical requirements. An experi- When, in the life cycle of a project, should I bring the Ar- enced Architect will recognize that each Lot within Desert chitect into the picture? As early in the process as possible. Mountain is unique in terms of its natural opportunities Architects can help you define the project in terms that 22 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Design Review

provide meaningful guidance for problems and costs issues later in the design. During initial consultations design process. ask lots of questions and clearly com- After you’ve interviewed each Ar- municate your goals and expectations. chitect, ask yourself these questions Sound pre-planning can save signifi- about each candidate. cant amounts of money and time. • Do they communicate well? Do How do I find suitable Architects to they listen well? contact? Talk to friends, neighbors or • Have they designed and completed business associates who have un- homes similar in scope to mine? dertaken similar projects at Desert • Do they have relevant experience at Mountain or in similar high-end, Desert Mountain? desert-oriented communities. Look • Do they understand the Desert through local lifestyle magazines, like Mountain Design Guidelines and Phoenix Home and Garden, and re- Design Review Process? search the Architects that are design- • How will engineering or other de- ing quality homes that match your sign services be provided? design goals. • Are they responsive? Do they return my phone calls promptly? How many Architects should I inter- • Is their firm the right size? Who view and how should they be selected? It in the firm will be working directly is advised to interview at least three with me? Architects - enough to see the range • Do I like them? Will I enjoy work- of possibilities. If you are soliciting ing closely with this person? proposals from more than one Archi- • Do I like their work? Do I trust that tect, make sure that you can provide their aesthetic will work for me? all the information required to evalu- • Evaluate the firm’s style, personal- ate them on a consistent basis. ity, priorities, and approach: are they compatible with yours? What information should I request from an Architect? Ask to see homes the Yours will be a business relation- Architect has designed that are simi- ship. Remember that selection is a lar in type and size to yours; or have mutual process. The most thoughtful addressed similar issues (for example, Architects are as careful in selecting siting, style, terrain, functional com- their clients as owners are in selecting plexity, or design aspirations). Ask for Architects. They are as interested in a references from the Architects you find. successful project as you are, and they know that good architecture results On what should I base my final from fruitful collaboration between decision? Personal confidence in the Architects and clients. Don’t be afraid Architect is paramount. Seek also an to ask questions and don’t be afraid appropriate balance among creative to be frank. Tell the Architect what design ability; technical competence; you know and what you expect. Only professional service; proven experi- when you have outlined your issues ence in designing custom homes in can the Architect address them. high-end, desert-oriented communi- The right Architect will not only ties; and cost. It is important that help you realize the design of your your Architect satisfies all of these dreams, but will also work with your points. Selection of your Architect contractor to make sure the job is solely on the basis of the design fees done right, helping you avoid unnec- is not advised; as usually the lowest essary costs, and making the design fee results in other delays, revisions, process enjoyable for everyone. n

Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 23 Security Update Services Provided by a Qualified Staff By: Bill Fultz • CERT - Community Emergency Response Team - Na- Director of Security tional program instructed by City of Scottsdale Emer- Many of our homeown- gency Services ers call and ask about • Defensive Driving Course - National Safety Council the various services our • Storm Spotter Certification - National Weather Service Anderson Securtity team Office - Phoenix members provide. While • Doppler Radar Operator Certification - U.S. Dept. of we attempt to communicate Transportation and Highway Safety Institute these services in various venues I would like to take Desert Mountain is only one of (18) communities in a moment to highlight a Arizona Certified by the National Weather Service (NWS) few of those services, and as a “Storm Ready” Community. To achieve this we moni- the qualifications of our tor severe weather and are capable of reporting and receiv- security staff. ing ALERT information directly to/from the NWS office We contract services with Phoenix Based Anderson in Phoenix. Certifications are reviewed every two years to Security Agency. Kim Matich-Anderson CEO has worked maintain this certification. Some homeowner insurance diligently with us since 2003 to improve services provided companies offer additional insurance discounts because of to the Community. this. It is much like a discount for having an active burglary/ All staff placed at Desert Mountain are required to meet fire alarm in your home. Contact your insurance provider standard hiring and DPS Licensing requirements for Secu- to see if this is offered. rity. They are then screened for additional qualifications in Emergency Communications and information sharing: an occupational related skill set and given 40 hours of train- We have direct radio contact to Scottsdale Fire Department ing before ever working a specific post assignment at Desert via our security radios. If you call 911 and report a fire or Mountain. Once assigned to Desert Mountain they are medical emergency, once in route, Stations 616 (Desert screened semi-annually for occupational and background Mountain) or Station 615 (Scottsdale) notify our Security related performance requirements. We strive to employ the team, and in effect dispatch them to your home. Once our most qualified security staff available in the Metro area. team is on scene they will administer appropriate medical Training - In addition to the previously mentioned Des- treatment or precautionary fire prevention measures until ert Mountain specific training all members of staff receive the Fire Department arrives. If the situation deteriorates medical training and certifications in: they report that as well and additional resources may be dispatched to the Community. • Basic Life Support (BLS), Cardiopulmonary Resuscita- Security also manages Desert Mountain Emergency tion (CPR), Continuous Chest Resuscitation (CCR), and Information System (DMEIS) (480-595-4100). This is a Automated External Defibrillator (AED). All Certifica- recorded message you may call 24 hours a day 7 days a week tions and refreshers are instructed by Scottsdale Fire and receive updates on situations both within the com- Department. munity and close proximity. As an example, when fires are • Emergency Medical Response Certification (EMR) - visible in the National Forest we will update this informa- instruction by a National Certified medical training tion routinely until the fire is contained or no longer poses company a threat to the Community. By using this system it does not tie up the Main Number at the Gate, and allows our staff to In the past (18) months our team has been recognized and continue working while disseminating important informa- accredited with saving two of our members lives by the City tion to the Community. In conjunction with DMEIS we of Scottsdale. have the capability to send out an e-mail by village or entire Depending on his/her work assigned post they will re- Community should it be necessary. ceive additional training in: Did you ever wonder what our patrol staff is doing when they drive through your village? Depending on the shift, they 24 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Security Security Update contINUED Update

routinely inspect village velop tender paws gates for damage and are o Be mindful that our trail trained to do limited trou- system is adjacent to the ble shooting. Many times Tonto National Forest and he/she can fix the problem wildlife does not recog- and return it to service. If nize boundaries. Simply not, they document the have a plan of action problem and report it for should you or your pet repair. This also applies to encounter wildlife. entrance lights, directory boxes, irrigation leaks, mail Desert Mountain Security box and bulletin boards. has established a protocol Once inside the village they with the Scottsdale Fire De- patrol looking for suspi- partment should an emer- cious activity or something gency situation develop unusual. If you have reported that you are out of town they on the trail system. To enable activation of the protocol will check your home and document when they were there. we have now recorded GPS data for the first three trails Construction sites are inspected for a list of potential concerns and identified communication dead spots for both security for our Design Review Department, and areas of concern are communications via Verizon and AT&T cellular carriers. reported to that department as may be required. This will be loaded into the Scottsdale Fire Department’s We also provide services to D.M. Club. Inspecting each GIS emergency response data base, should a mountain club house and maintenance facility as their needs may re- rescue become necessary. If you need assistance and your quire. Just as we respond to a call for service to your home, telephone carrier is not working normally, we found that we respond to similar calls at each of these facilities. walking just a short distance(less than 1/4 mile) will give Other services they provide - snake removal, vehicle jump you access. A text message may be transmittable in some start, wildlife displacement when possible, emergency water circumstances where voice communication is not available. shut off, incident investigations such as theft, property In the months ahead, we will be further improving trail damage, fraud and motor vehicle accident investigations. safety and emergency response protocols. We will advise If you have a concern and/or question we have a security you of additional upgrades. supervisor on duty 24 hours a day 7 days a week, you may call the Main Gate at 480-595-4338. If the officer on the phone is unable to answer your question, simply ask for the Helpful Numbers: Duty Supervisor to return your call. Finally, we would like to remind you of some safety tips HOA Office | 480-595-4220 when using the Desert Mountain Trail System: Main Gate | 480-595-4338 Desert Hills Entrance (DHE) Gate | 480-595-4295 • Always let someone know you are going to the D.M. Desert Mountain Emergency Information Trails for a walk System (DMEIS) | 480-595-4100 • When possible walk with a friend Bill Fultz 480-595-4061 | [email protected] • Always take plenty of water and your cell phone Vicky Harjung 480-595-4064 | [email protected] • Always take a trail map with you on your hike. It is im- portant to know which trail you are on and your approxi- Editor’s Note mate location (pay attention to mile markers in case of As a friendly reminder, the Desert Mountain Master emergency) Association works diligently in partnership with Ander- • If you take your pet with you, please be mindful of other son Security to provide quality controlled access and patrol hikers - service to the Community, HOWEVER, the Associa- o The Trails are within the City Limits of Scottsdale, tion DOES NOT provide full home security service to its Leash Laws Apply members. Please lock your doors, call 911 in the event of o Pick up after your pet, bags and disposal location is any emergency, immediately report any suspicious activity located at the main trail head to the Main Gate at 480.595.4338, and contract with a o Take water for your pet and be mindful that they may private professional security provider such as Stanley, ADT become tired, and if they do not walk on trails or Safeguard if you would like your in-home alarm security frequently they may de- system monitored. n Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 25 Landscaping News Planning for the Future – the of the ESOPValue By: Jeff Penney CEO, DLC Resources When DLC was founded in 1989, succession planning was one of the last things on our minds. We were focused on establishing our busi- ness and providing valuable services to our clients. As we have grown over the past 24 years, we have worked hard to earn a reputation for man- aging high quality landscapes with exceptional service. Several years ago, wanting to preserve the focus and spirit of DLC into the future, the 4 owners of DLC began plan- ning the future ownership of the company. With many options on the table, one of them stuck out to all of us. DLC has always been about our culture and our employees. Without that emphasis, the company’s performance would be negatively affected. Therefore, the company had to be owned by the employees collectively. In 2009, DLC began transitioning ownership of the com- pany to an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Each year, the ESOP “owns” a larger percentage of the company. To the Desert Mountain Community, this means that each employee/owner understands the importance of strong quality performance and safe performance and success of the company – which directly affects the value of their ESOP account. This can be seen in the DLC owner who stops trim- ming to be courteous to a passing dog walker, or the owner who notices a low hanging branch while picking up trash and just takes care of it right then, or the team of owners who maintain the Village front entries by pulling each weed by hand to best promote the wildflowers. Our ESOP program attracts top employees in a market where wages are highly competitive. Now with any retire- ment plan, there are qualifying rules. But in general, after an employee has been with DLC for just over a year, they enter the program. We are proud that DLC is positioned solidly into the future to uphold our reputation as the landscape management experts. As of 2013, the DLC ESOP is now the single largest shareholder, owning 41% of the company. n 26 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 27 See How Native Design Influences Runway Style in New HMNS Exhibit {SFA} The influence of American Indian art can be seen in many modern-day forms, The sleepy days of summer are from Santa Fe-style architecture to clothing design. behind us now. The Scottsdale Arts For example, fringe-covered leather coats popular among those in the 1960s District is energized with the antici- counterculture movement were a descendant of those designed and worn by the pated return of our collectors and fans Apache scouts of the late 19th century and other tribes who wore something simi- of the arts here in Old Town. The of- lar for centuries, according to the Jan, 28, 2011, entry of the blog Beyond Buck- ficial “kick off” to our season is the Arts

HEARD & SFA skin: About Native American Fashion. District’s “Anniversary ArtWalk” on How Native design has influenced modern fashion trends is the subject of Thursday, October 2, from 7 – 9 pm. American Indian Fashion: from Lloyd Kiva New to Now, an exhibit opening Nov. During this special City sponsored eve- 23 at the Heard Museum North Scottsdale, 326323 N. Scottsdale Road (at Ashler ning event visitors will find new work in Hills Drive), Scottsdale. The exhibit will be on display until Oct. 26, 2014. the more than 100 galleries and music venues on the street for entertainment. Pueblo), who recently was a runner-up on Many of the galleries will host special the hit television show Project Runway. features this evening as well. Details about curator’s talks and other The first weekend in November programming will be available on our brings the return of the Arts Districts website heard.org, or see upcoming “Fall for the Arts” event. There will Word @ at the Heard e-newsletters; to be a number of arts related activities subscribe, visit heard.org. including special museum and gallery shows featuring national, international American Indian Fashion: and local artists. A favorite highlight from Lloyd Kiva New to Now of the weekend is a ‘Quick Draw’ paint Public Opening out on Main Street. The street will be Saturday, Nov. 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. closed to traffic between Scottsdale Road and Marshall Way between 9 am What Hidden Treasures Lie in the and 2 pm. More than 40 artists rep- Closet? Find Out on Appraisal Day. resented by local galleries will paint Learn more about those items lurking in outdoors on the street. Visitors are wel- your closet or collecting dust on your dis- come to wander around and watch as play shelves! Bring them to Heard Museum these talented artists create an original In addition to that influence, Ameri- North Scottsdale during American Indian oil painting. The event will culminate can Indian fashion and design provide a Art & Artifacts Appraisal Day on Saturday, with an auction at noon where each of platform for personal expression for Na- Nov. 16. Leading Native art traders will ex- these original pieces of art will be sold. tive artists and reinforce Native identity, amine your treasures and offer information said Heard curator Janet Cantley. about materials, dates, artists and traditions. The materials, design, style and ac- Will you be the next visitor to find cessories honor tradition and create that your old Navajo rug is worth a small innovative statements on identity and fortune? Or that the painting that no- culture and the clothing and accessories body else in your family wanted is worth are a form of communication, having a a cool $250,000, as one amazed owner storytelling component, she said. learned during a past appraisal? It’s all Visitors will see clothing and accesso- part of the fun at this annual event spon- ries from the Heard Museum collection sored by the Heard Museum Council. and a few loans, beginning with attire from the 1950s designed by the Cherokee American Indian Art & Artifacts designer Lloyd Kiva New and bringing it Appraisal Day to the present with today’s designers. Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Those designers include Kay Ben- Cost: $25 for the first item nett (Navajo), Margaret Wood (Navajo), $20 for the second item Ramona Sakiestewa (Hopi), Virgil Ortiz $15 for the third and subsequent item(s) (Cochiti Pueblo), Pilar Agoyo (Ohkay Limit 10 items per person, please. Owingeh/Cochiti Pueblo/Santo Domin- Non-Heard members, please add $5 go Pueblo), and Patricia Michaels (Taos per item. 28 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Scottsdale Fine Art this Fall For more information about “Fall for November December the Arts” activities visit the Scottsdale “Fall for the Arts” has become Each December we host an “all Convention and Visitor’s Bureau web- a favorite event for visitors to the gallery artists” Holiday Show featur- site at www.experiencescottsdale.com Scottsdale Arts District. Several of our ing new works. We will host a special or the Scottsdale Gallery Association gallery artists will participate during Holiday ArtWalk on Thursday, Decem- website at www.scottsdalegalleries.com the ‘Quick Draw’ painting on Satur- ber 5 from 7 – 9 pm. The street will be Scottsdale Fine Art will host sev- day, November 9 from 9 – 2 on Main decked with twinkly lights and festive eral special features during October, Street. Our gallery participating artists decorations in the gallery. Refresh- November and December in addition are Douglas R. Diehl, Allen Garns, Da- ments will be served. Take a break from to welcoming visitors every Thursday vid Hettinger, Timothy Rees and Carol the monotony of shopping the mall for evening for ArtWalk. Fall exhibitions at Swinney. Watch as these talented artists holiday gifts and find something unique the gallery include: create original paintings which will be and original here in the gallery. auctioned off later in the day. October Also during this weekend, artist Peter Scottsdale Fine Art Join us for our “Anniversary and Holbrook will be featured prominently in hours of operation: Introductions feature. We are entering a special show titled “Art of the National Monday – Saturday our 8th year here in Scottsdale. In ad- Parks”. The show highlights be best living 10:30am – 6:00pm dition to our spectacular gallery roster painters for certain National Parks. As one Sunday we are introducing a few new faces. of the 12:00pm – 4:00pm Joining the gallery this fall are Lane pre- Thursday night ArtWalk Bennion, Jim Zwadlo, Timothy Rees eminent 7:00pm – 9:00pm and David Hettinger, OPAM. Each painters of these artists will be of the Grand highlighted dur- Canyon, Hol- ing the City brook’s paintings Sponsored will be also included “Anniver- in a beautiful 400 sary Art- page hardbound Walk” on book which comple- Thursday, ments the show. October 2nd.

Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 29 Desert Mountain Art League By Ellen Rindle Potje, co-owner of the Celebration of Art, is the featured The Desert Mountain Art League has planned a very speaker. She will provide a different perspective about the art active and exciting schedule of classes. Nineteen classes are community to the group. Many of the artist/instructors will offered. be present with samples of their work displayed and for sale. Some of them have filled and several have met the mini- There will be a silent auction of artwork donated by mum number of students. See the desertmountainartleague. members and instructors. Signup sheets for the classes will org website for names of instructors (all professional artists) be available. Table prizes will be small paintings done by and class descriptions. Sign-up is easy and can be done by members of the art league. Paint smocks with the art league using the website. logo will be available for purchase. To reserve your place at

DMAL & MIM The 2013/14 season will begin with a luncheon on the luncheon, check the same website for details ...cost of the November 1st at the Cochise/Geronimo clubhouse. Susan luncheon will be around $35. Everyone is invited to attend.

Musical Instrument Museum The Musical Instrument Museum more than 70 artists, the exhibition Dave Holland PRISM (MIM) is bringing “Women Who demonstrates how women have been Friday, October 4 | 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Rock: Vision, Passion, Power” to the engines of creation and change in Tickets: $27.50-$42.50 Phoenix in October. Created by the popular music. Guests will see instru- Bassist, composer and bandleader Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Mu- ments, original handwritten lyrics, Dave Holland brings together three of seum, this is the world’s first museum stage outfits, concert posters and vid- jazz’s finest talents—keyboardist Craig exhibition to honor nearly a century of eos from artists ranging from Wanda Taborn, guitarist Kevin Eubanks and iconic female musicians, and MIM will Jackson, Janis Joplin and Madonna drummer Eric Harland—to form this be the only location in the southwest to Cyndi Lauper, Lady Gaga, Carrie modern jazz ensemble. to host the exhibition. Highlighting Underwood and more! “Women Who Rock: Vision, Pas- Roger McGuinn sion, Power” will be on display in Saturday, October 5 | 7:30 p.m. MIM’s Target Gallery from Oct. 19, Tickets: $37.50-$42.50 2013, through April 20, 2014. Admis- Founder of the Byrds and one of the most sion is $10 for the exhibition only, influential guitarists of the last century. or $7 when purchased with general museum admission. Idan Raichel Project Tuesday, October 8 | 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Booker T. Jones Tickets: $42.50-$57.50 Thursday, October 3 | 7:30 p.m. Israel’s “Musical Group of the Decade” Tickets: $42.50-$47.50 elevates world music to the next level by Multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, embracing diversity and uplifting listeners record producer and arranger who set with its messages of peace and acceptance. the cast for modern soul music. Visit www.mim.org for a complete list of events and exhibits this fall. 30 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 31 Meet the HOA Staff

We all work very hard (Board & Staff alike) to take a various database entry and maintenance projects, cash han- Team Approach in managing the Desert Mountain Master dling/reporting and coordinates numerous vendor contracts. Association. In past issues of the Connection magazine, we Native to Arizona, she enjoys spending quality time with her have featured the Master Board and many of our key owner new husband and two cats. She is an active volunteer with the volunteers. In this issue we are similarly emphasizing our on- Arizona Parks and Recreation Association and loves hiking, site management staff, supplied to our Community as part of wildlife and attending sporting events. our twenty year working relationship with our Community Management Company – CCMC. Tony DiGeronimo, As- sistant Operations Coor- Bill Overton, Community dinator, has been employed Manager, is responsible to with CCMC for three years the Boards of Directors for all at Estrella Mountain Ranch functions of the Master and in Goodyear Arizona as a Village Associations, and also Maintenance Coordinator. facilitates the Design Re- Tony was recently hired at view Committee. He further Desert Mountain as the As- supervises the HOA staff as it sistant Operations Coordi- carries out its ongoing efforts. nator. His main responsi- Bill has been employed by bilities include preventative/ CCMC/Desert Mountain maintenance of gates, village for eleven years. Bill is an inspections, property status reviews and helping out with the avid cyclist and reader. Please Owner Services Business. In his spare time he enjoys wood- contact Bill with questions and comments relating to the Boards working, cycling and spending time with family and friends. of Directors, Design Review Committee, various advisory com- mittees, association finance, staff or staff functions. Bill Fultz, Director of Security, is responsible Dana Bondon, Executive for patrol, access control, Assistant, has been em- safety and risk management ployed with CCMC since services. He was instrumen- October 2012. Dana started tal in the installation of the her career here at DM as the transponder access system, Design Review Coordinator is actively involved in the and was recently promoted implementation of the emer- to Executive Assistant in gency evacuation plan for June. Her background con- the Community and over- sists of years of experience sees the patrol and gate ac- in the Country Club/Golf cess contract with Anderson industry, construction indus- Security Agency. Bill has been a CCMC employee at Desert try and retail industry. In her spare time she enjoys travelling, Mountain for 10 years and enjoys spending quality time with gardening and hiking. Hope to meet you on the Trails! his grandkids. Please contact Bill with questions about gate or patrol staff, or concerns about Community safety. Trish Cardenas, Of- fice Administrator, began Vicky Harjung, Adminis- her employment at Desert trative Coordinator, moved Mountain in 2008 with our to Arizona from Chicago ap- onsite security team. She proximately 8 years ago and joined CCMC in early 2010 started working for CCMC and has worked in various as a full time employee about positions within the Master 18 months ago. She reports Association. As the Office directly to Jake Marshall, Bill Administrator, she supports Fultz and Bruce Spilka as our Team by managing mul- their Administrative Coor- tiple administrative projects, dinator. She is a mother of 32 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com three adult sons and has two small grandsons. She is an avid doing property inspections and notices of noncompliance reader, enjoys photography, crocheting and has recently found with the association documents. Bruce has the most tenure in a new passion of working out seven days a week. our office with 13 years of employement at Desert Mountain. Bruce enjoys watching the local sports teams – Diamondbacks Jacob Marshall, Busi- and Cardinals, as well as, hiking and spending time with his ness Manager, has been teenage daughter. Please feel free to contact Bruce with any employed with CCMC for operational questions or issues you may have. six years and began his career in Accounting at the Corpo- Casey White, Recep- rate Office in 2007. He then tionist, has been employed served as Operations Coor- at Desert Mountain for 3 dinator for the Grayhawk years (with CCMC for 7 Community Association and years). She is the “smiley” as Assistant Manager at the voice you hear when you Spectrum Community As- call the HOA office! In sociation. He joined Desert her spare time she enjoys Mountain in April of 2012 to singing (karaoke), playing initially support the Design with her dog Moose, and is Review Department and is addicted to Zumba! now Business Manager for the HOA. Jake is responsible for all aspects of office’s Financial and Internal Operations. Jake brings a wealth of experience in the areas of finance, account- ing and operations. He graduated Arizona State University Your Owner Services Business (OSB) Staff with a Bachelor of Science in Global Business and Financial Scott McVay, Village Management, and received his MBA with honors from the Services, has been work- University of Phoenix in May, 2012. Jake is an enthusiastic ing for CCMC for 6 years. Cardinals fan! Please contact Jake with any financial questions. Scott came to DM two years ago from Estrella Mountain Jessica Smith, Design Ranch as the Facilities Direc- Review Coordinator, has tor. Prior to Estrella, Scott been employed by CCMC worked at Sonoran Foothills for almost two years now as the Maintenance Techni- and recently became the cian. Scott enjoys playing golf Design Review Coordina- in his spare time. tor for Desert Mountain just over three months ago. Rick Fields, OSB Cus- In prior years, she was in tomer Service Associate, the appraisal industry, both (not pictured) has been with CCMC for one year. He brings to residential and commercial Desert Mountain a diverse background in construction, problem and has thoroughly enjoyed solving and customer service. Originally from Chicago, with working with residents and many years’ experience as a high-rise building engineer in the in real estate. Gold Coast area, Rick enriched his education, knowledge and experience in Arizona by attending two schools, and becoming Bruce Spilka, Op- a licensed Home Inspector and a licensed Realtor. When Rick is erations Coordinator, is not working, he enjoys playing Texas Hold ‘em, antique shop- responsible for supervising ping, and seeing and experiencing the aesthetics of the desert. the maintenance of Desert Rick is also a foodie that enjoys trying new restaurants. Rick is Mountain’s common areas replacing Mike Thomas who recently resigned to assume a posi- and roadways. Bruce works tion outside Desert Mountain. closely with DLC Resources, Desert Mountain’s landscape Note: The above job functions reflect the person’s primary contractor, coordinating all functions. However, each is cross-trained to perform other common area maintenance. important aspects of other functions as part of the Staff’s Bruce is also a key figure in team effort philosophy. This approach has aided us in im- many committee meetings, as proving service while holding costs down. his vast experience at Desert As part of our commitment to on-going communica- Mountain lends valuable in- tion, the CCMC/Desert Mountain HOA Staff wanted to formation in setting some of introduce ourselves to the Members. Please stop in and say the decisions made by the committees. You’ll also find Bruce “hello” to our Team! n Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 33 Trails Update Fall Trails Update

By Ryan Larson, Trails • Take your cell phone with you during your hike for use in Committee Chair case of an emergency. Please note, however, that you may not The Master Board and receive a signal in all locations due to the mountainous terrain. the Trails Committee are • In case of an emergency, call 911, then contact Desert pleased to report that our Mountain Security at 480/595-4338 and let them know summer work with Okano- where you are on the Trail so they can locate you. The ad- gan Trails Construction has dress of the Trail is 45000 North Chiricahua Pass. gone smoothly and our two • If you have asthma, diabetes, a heart condition, knee or new hiking trails are com- back problems, or any other health or medical issue, limit plete. The hiking experience both your exertion and your exposure to the heat. Stay and views from the new within your training, physical limitations, and abilities. If Tonto Ridge Overlook Trail you have any questions or concerns regarding your physi- are absolutely spectacular! cal limitations or capabilities, please consult with your And the new Grapevine Wash extension trail will provide a physician prior to hiking. more user-friendly return option for the Hohokam Camp • Always hike with a buddy. Trail. These are truly wonderful additions to our award win- • Let others know where you are going and when you expect ning Trails System! to be back. As I write this update, the Management Team (Staff, the • Pack it in, pack it out: put all litter in plastic bags and dis- Trails Committee, and the Safety and Access Committee) are pose of it in the garbage cans located at the Trailhead. hard at work addressing mapping and signage improvements • All pets must be leashed on the trails! This is for your that should be fully in place in November. These improve- pet’s safety, as well as for other hikers using the trail. Please ments are all designed to enhance your hiking experience and keep your pet on a maximum six-foot leash to protect it, improve the convenience and safety of your hike. Look for an other visitors and wildlife. email blast in October with more information. • Remember to bring plastic bags with you to pick up your In the interim, please follow the following safety tips when pet’s waste and pack it out to the waste disposal station hiking any desert hiking system. located at the Trailhead. • Sometimes, being with nature in Desert Mountain results Hiking Helpful Hints in the occasional encounter with the wildlife that roam Hikers and their guests are reminded of the following… freely throughout the Northern Properties. If you come • Be prepared! You are responsible for your own safety into contact with a bobcat, mountain lion, javelina or as well as that of everyone in your party. Remember rattlesnake, do not approach it! Give it a wide berth and to bring plenty of water, food if necessary, and appropri- slowly back away to safety. ate clothing to protect you from the various elements on the trail. Enjoy your hike! n

34 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 35 SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

36 Fall 2013 Desert-Mountain-HOA.com SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Desert-Mountain-HOA.com Fall 2013 37 Contact Sheet

Desert Mountain Homeowners Association. 480-595-4220 Desert Foothills Library...... 480-488-2286 Monday-Friday: 8:00am-5:00pm United States Postal Service (Carefree Branch). 480-488-3781 Bill Overton, PCAM, Community Manager ...... 480-595-4222 United States Postal Service (Kachina Station Services DM). 480-513-2935 Dana Bondon, Executive Assistant...... 480-595-4225 (7339 E. Williams Drive) Jacob Marshall, Business Manager. 480-595-4063 Bill Fultz, Director of Security...... 480-595-4061 Utilities Bruce Spilka, Operations Coordinator...... 480-595-4224 Arizona Public Service (APS). 602-371-7171 AT&T...... 800-288-2747 Resident Assistance CenturyLink (formerly Qwest)...... 888-364-5234 Desert Mountain Main Gate (24 hours)...... 480-595-4338 City of Scottsdale Solid Waste Management. 480-312-5600 Desert Hills Gate (5:45am-6:00pm)...... 480-595-4295 City of Scottsdale Water Services. 480-312-2461 Desert Mountain Emergency Information System (DMEIS) . 480-595-4100 Cox Communications. 602-277-1000 Fairways Administration Building...... 480-595-4229 Southwest Gas. 602-271-4277 Saguaro Forest Caretaker’s Cottage . 480-595-4860 Verizon...... 800-922-0204 Desert Mountain Clubhouses Schools Apache Clubhouse & Grill...... 480-595-4328 Cave Creek Unified School District...... 480-575-2000 Chiricahua Clubhouse & Golf...... 480-595-4800 Transportation Department...... 480-575-2080 Cochise Geronimo Clubhouse & Golf...... 480-488-1363 Black Mountain Elementary...... 480-575-2100 Outlaw Clubhouse & Golf...... 480-595-4870 Sonoran Trails Middle School...... 480-272-8600 Renegade Clubhouse & Golf. 480-595-4261 Attendance. 480-272-8604 Sonoran Clubhouse...... 480-595-4355 Cactus Shadows High School...... 480-575-2400 Attendance...... 480-575-2431 Public Service Fire or Police Emergencies. 911 Religious Services Scottsdale Fire Department (Non-Emergencies) ...... 480-312-8911 Black Mountain Community Church...... 480-575-1801 Scottsdale Police Department (Non-Emergencies)...... 480-391-5000 Christ the Lord Lutheran Church . 480-488-2081 Maricopa County Sheriffs Office ...... 602-256-1000 Christian Science First Church. 480-488-2665 Desert Foothills Medical Center. 480-488-9220 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints...... 480-488-3035 Poison Control...... 800-362-0101 Desert Hills Presbyterian Church...... 480-488-3384 Arizona Fish & Game Department . 602-789-3201 Good Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal ...... 480-488-3283 Southwest Wildlife Animal Rescue...... 480-471-9109 Our Lady of Joy Parish . 480-488-2229

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