Rattlesnake Season in Arizona: Staying Safe This Spring and Summer
As temperatures rise across Arizona, residents may begin to see increased wildlife activity— especially rattlesnakes. Arizona is home to 13 different species of rattlesnakes, more than any other state, and they become most active between March and October as they emerge from winter dens in search of food and warmth.
While rattlesnakes are an important part of the desert ecosystem, it is important for residents to remain aware and take simple precautions when spending time outdoors.
What to Do if You See a Rattlesnake
Rattlesnakes are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid people. Most bites occur when someone attempts to approach, handle, or provoke the snake.
If you encounter a rattlesnake:
• Stay calm and keep your distance
• Slowly back away and give the snake plenty of space
• Do not attempt to move, handle, or kill the snake
• Allow the snake to move away on its own
Tips to Reduce Snake Encounters Around Your Home
Residents can help reduce the likelihood of rattlesnakes entering yards or common areas by:
• Keeping landscaping trimmed and free of debris
• Removing woodpiles, rock piles, and clutter where snakes may hide
• Controlling rodents, which attract snakes as a food source
• Using outdoor lighting and flashlights at night, especially during warmer evenings
• Watching where you step or place your hands, particularly near rocks, bushes, or walls
Safety Tips for Outdoor Activities
When walking, biking, or enjoying the outdoors in the community:
• Stay on designated paths and sidewalks
• Wear closed-toe shoes when walking in natural areas
• Keep pets on a leash and avoid letting them explore brush or rocky areas
• Be especially cautious during early morning, evening, or nighttime, when snakes may be more active
What To Do If Bitten
Rattlesnake bites are medical emergencies. If a bite occurs:
• Call 911 immediately
• Stay as calm and still as possible
• Remove jewelry or tight clothing near the bite
• Keep the affected limb immobilized and below heart level
• Do not apply ice, cut the wound, or use a tourniquet
A Shared Desert Environment
Living in the desert means sharing our environment with native wildlife. By staying alert and following these safety tips, residents can continue to safely enjoy our beautiful community and outdoor spaces.
As we head into the warmer months and spend more time outside enjoying the sunshine, walking paths, and parks, a little awareness goes a long way in keeping everyone safe while making the most of Arizona’s beautiful weather.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Spring!
YVETTE RUSHFORD, CMCA, AMS General Manager AAM, LLC
INTEREST GROUP DIRECTORY
Send all group news and changes to activities@ourfiresidenorterra.net
Schedules for Interest Groups vary. Please contact the leader for more information.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
WINE 101
TBD
Dennis Horcher / 801-201-4949
BOOK CLUB
2nd Tuesday of the Month 7 p.m.
Cathy / 602-620-3604
CARDS & GAMES
BRIDGE (CONTRACT)
Monday 1:30 p.m.
Susan Becker / 602-499-4764
M & M’S MAH JONGG
Wednesday 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Kay Tegland / 623-249-6227
TUESDAY MAH JONGG
Tuesday 11:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Sylvia Forster / 973-919-2377
EUCHRE
1st and 3rd Thursday 6:00 p.m. Chris / mreber07@yahoo.com
The City of Phoenix is scheduled to conduct a community bulk trash pick-up on Tuesday, May 5. Please place your bulk trash at the curb by May 4 for pick up as they will only be picking up on May 5.
*Please note: Bulk trash may not be placed at the curb more than seven days in advance.*
If you have any questions, contact Bev at 623-434-6412 or email at bauerbach@associatedasset.com.
TUESDAY, MAY 5
Mark your calendars! Additional pick-up dates for 2026 are: Tuesday, August 4 Tuesday, November 10
A MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD • JIM BELL, BOARD
Spring Forward Together: A Message from Your HOA Board President
As we welcome the second quarter of 2026, I’m filled with excitement about the momentum our community continues to build. The Six Pillars of Strategic Growth-Safety, Operational Excellence, Financial Stewardship, Community Engagement, Landscaping, and Infrastructure - are no longer just vision statements. They’re becoming visible, tangible improvements that are shaping our neighborhood every day.
This spring, one of our standout moments was the All Committees Meeting, where representatives from Landscaping, Finance & Budget, Activities, Gym, and Design Review and the Board came together to collaborate. Seeing our committees share ideas and align on priorities reminded us all of what makes our community thrive: teamwork, communication, and shared purpose. By connecting our efforts, we’re ensuring that every dollar invested and every volunteer hour spent directly benefits everyone who calls this place home. We’re not just maintaining our neighborhood - we’re building a premier community guided by unity and heart.
As the desert landscape transforms with spring blooms and perfect weather, there’s a renewed sense of vitality everywhere you look. Whether it’s neighbors out for a morning walk, friends gathering at the community center, or residents staying active in the fitness facility, this “Spring Spirit” reflects what we cherish most about where we live -connection, wellness, and pride in our shared surroundings.
Yet, the true beauty of our community isn’t found in the flowers or the sunshine - it’s in you, our residents. To those who attend Board and Committee meetings, volunteer your evenings, or take the time to walk the grounds and offer feedback - thank you. Your involvement and commitment make all the difference. Balancing personal obligations with community engagement is no small task, and your dedication is deeply appreciated.
Because of you, our community continues to stand as a beacon of stability, pride, and care. Together, we are truly “springing forward” into a bright and prosperous season ahead.
Warm regards,
Jim Bell
FAN HOA President
G e t r e a d y t o r o l l t h e d i c e a t C a s i n o N i g h t !
E n j o y a n e v e n i n g o f g a m e s , a p p e t i z e r s ,
d e s s e r t s , a n d g r e a t c o m p a n y .
B l a c k J a c k T e x a s H o l d ' e m C r a p s R o u l e t t e A p r i l 1 8
D o o r s o p e n a t 6 P M r a f f l e a t 8 : 4 5 P M F i r e s i d e G r e a t R o o m T i c k e t s $ 3 0 ( i n c l u d e s p l a y v o u c h e r )
D r e s s T h e m e : N o w h e r e T o W e a r T h i s T o B Y O B L i m i t s A p p l y W i n e : 7 5 0 m l . p e r p e r s o n o r B e e r : 4 0 o z . p e r p e r s o n o r S p i r i t s : 4 o z . p e r p e r s o n R e f u n d D e a d l i n e : A p r i l 3
Invited!
NIGHT NIGHT movie movie You’re
FRIDAY, APRIL 10 FRIDAY, APRIL 10
ALL ACCESS
ENJOY CONVENIENCE
AAM All Access is a free all-in-one, user-friendly app created for AAM homeowners and Board members.
Whether you need to make a payment, review an architectural request, or refer to important association documents, AAM All Access makes it easy and convenient.
Account
View & Pay Balance
Update Contact Info
Mail Archive
Update Billing Preferences
Forms
Maintenance Requests
Fee Waivers
Compliance Concerns
Compliance
View Compliance Issues
Observe Photos
Submit Appeals Set Notifications
Integrated Features
eVoting Guest Passes
Membership Cards Room & Club Schedules
Architecturals
Submit Request with Pictures
Review Pending Request Full Action History
Board Members
Financial Dashboard
Association Documents
Board Tasks
Record Archives
Association
Important Contacts and Links
Resident Directory
Association Documents
Community FAQs
Enjoy Convenience
Customizable Dashboard
Multiple Account Access
Custom Push Notifications
GLUTES & CORE
9:15AM Mondays
Strengthen your core and sculpt your glutes with a dynamic mix of bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, and weights.
Movement Studio
$5 Drop-In Fee
Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
There’s something refreshing about a dish that highlights simple, fresh ingredients—and Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad does exactly that. Inspired by the classic Italian Caprese combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, this pasta salad turns those bright flavors into a satisfying and shareable dish.
Tender pasta is tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella balls, and fresh basil, creating a perfect balance of richness and freshness. A light dressing of extra virgin olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper ties everything together while letting the natural flavors shine.
The result is a pasta salad that feels both comforting and vibrant in every bite. Whether served as a side for a backyard barbecue, a potluck favorite, or a quick lunch the next day, Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad is a simple recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
INSTRUCTIONS:
STEP 1: COOK AND COOL THE PASTA
Begin by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Season the water generously with kosher salt, then add the pasta. Cook the pasta just until it is al dente according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it lightly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE MOZZARELLA AND TOMATOES
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and toss in the diced peppers and red onion. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and tomato paste, stirring well to coat the vegetables.
STEP 3: COMBINE INGREDIENTS
Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the mixing bowl with the mozzarella and tomatoes. Toss in the slivered basil to combine all the ingredients together.
STEP 4: MAKE THE DRESSING
In a small bowl or mason jar with a lid, combine olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
STEP 5: DRESS THE SALAD AND SERVE
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the pasta salad in the mixing bowl. Toss everything gently to coat evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
SECRET TRICK
For the best flavor, let the salad sit for about 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to meld. The salad can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, ideal for preparing in advance or enjoying leftovers.
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 Cup Thinly Sliced Fresh Basil
1 lb. Small Pasta (e.g., Fusilli, Orecchiette, or Penne)
16 oz. Mozzarella Balls
3 Cups Cherry Tomatoes (Halved for Easier Eating)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for pasta water)
1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1 clove garlic, minced or pressed
Make a fun rock game with a few simple supplies! Gather 10–12 smooth rocks, paint or paint markers, and a sealant like Mod Podge. Wash and dry the rocks, then paint five one color and five another for two teams. Add fun designs once they dry and seal them to protect the art. Create a board using felt, a fabric bag with a drawn grid, or chalk outside.
tic-tak-toe craft
materials needed
• 10-12 Small Rocks: Smooth, flat stones are best.
• Paint/Markers: Acrylic paint or paint pens (paint markers).
• Sealant: Mod Podge or clear spray sealer.
• Board: Felt square, fabric bag, or a piece of wood.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clean the Rocks: Wash and thoroughly dry the rocks to ensure paint adheres.
2. Paint the Pieces: Paint 5 rocks one color (e.g., cookie) and 5 in another (e.g., blue cookie monster).
3. Add Details: Once the base coat dries, draw fun designs, using markers.
4. Seal the Rocks: Apply 1-2 coats of Mod Podge to protect the designs.
5. Create the Board:
o Felt: Cut a large square and use strips of felt to create a # grid.
o Bag: Draw a grid on a muslin drawstring bag with a sharpie.
o Outdoor: Use a stump or draw directly on a patio with chalk.
PILATES FLOW CLASS
Tuesday/Thursday: 7:30AM Saturday: 9AM The Great Room at Fireside AT
STRENGTHEN AND LENGTHEN YOUR BODY, AND FEEL AMAZING!
