JoinUs@ShangriLaRanch.com

623-465-5959

September 2026

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September

 

As we turn the page to September 2026, there is a distinct shift in the Arizona air. While the daytime sun still offers perfect pool weather, the evenings are gently hinting at the approach of fall. This month is all about celebrating the best of both worlds: soaking up the pristine desert sunshine by day and enjoying cooler, star-lit nights with our wonderful community. We are looking forward to being able to re-open tent camping shortly when the evening temperatures cool off and stay cooled off. 

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Water

Water Water Water

We cannot stress enough how important water is, not only for you to be drinking but also overall here at ShangriLa.

The importance of you staying hydrated with water and or electrolytes can not be understated. 

Please maintain the knowledge of your water system at your place by checking connections and making sure nothing is leaking on the interior and exterior to. 

Please report any leaks or puddles to the office so that we can get the situation resolved. 

 

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Saguaro Cactus

The Saguaro Cactus (Carnegiea gigantea) is an iconic symbol of the American West, naturally growing only within the Sonoran Desert. 
Here are 5 fun facts about these magnificent desert giants:
  • They are extreme late bloomers: Saguaros grow incredibly slowly, taking up to 8 years to grow just 1.5 inches. They generally do not sprout their very first iconic "arm" until they are between 50 to 100 years old.
  • They weigh as much as an elephant: As the largest cactus species in the United States, an adult saguaro can reach heights of 40 to 70 feet. When fully hydrated after a rainfall, a single mature cactus can weigh up to 6 tons (12,000 pounds). 
  • They act like giant accordions: To survive long periods of drought, their exterior features deep, accordion-like ribs. These ribs safely expand to store hundreds of gallons of rain water and visibly shrink as the cactus consumes its supply. 
  • They produce internal "boots": Birds like the Gila woodpecker peck out nesting holes in the cactus pulp. The saguaro heals itself by secreting a fluid that hardens into a solid, waterproof, wood-like shell known as a "saguaro boot," which native tribes historically used as water containers. 
  • Harming them is a serious crime: Saguaros are strictly protected under Arizona state law. It is illegal to cut down, damage, or even relocate a wild saguaro without a special government permit, even if the plant is on your own private property. 

Baked Gnocchi with Sausage

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Ingredients 

  • Âľ pound ground Italian sausage,, mild or spicy (375g)
  • 1 medium onion, (finely chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic, (finely minced)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ÂĽ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 pound dry gnocchi
  • 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions 

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F
  • In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and onion until browned, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and cook for 1 minute.
  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute or until no white remains.
  • Stir in the broth and cream. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.
  • Add the uncooked gnocchi and spinach and stir to combine. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Uncover and broil to brown slightly if desired. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
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Upcoming Events

Fall Festival 

October 10-11 

Highlights Include- Saturday Ladies Brunch sponsored by WINR then Poolside Music and Games. 

 

Bare Buns Desert 5k Run/Walk 

Saturday October 17th 8am Start time 

Come out and join us for our Annual Bare Buns Desert Trail Run cost includes day visit to stay for the rest of the day. Event is fully on ShangriLa Ranch so you can be as undressed as you would like to be. 

https://4peaksracing.com/events/bare-buns-desert-run-2026/

 

Halloween Dance 

Saturday October 31st 

This dance is a reservation required members only event we have limited availability. Reservations for this event open on October1st.  

PLAN YOUR NEXT GETAWAY IN THE BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS OF SHANGRI LA TODAY.

Call us at
623-465-5959

Email us at
joinus@shangrilaranch.com