Stonebridge Ranch News May 2015 by Moonlight Graphics

STANDARD RATE U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Allen, TX Permit 178

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS MAY 2015

Vol. 2, Issue 5

Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 7

From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia

This Month’s Feature by Sherine George

Compliance Tips by Nate Russell

Inside the Ranch by Michael Lesku

Community Calendar

Financial Update by Michael Lesku

21 Lifestyle 25

Around the Ranch

From Your Neighbor

Social Scene

SPECIAL SECTIONS 14

Photo ID Calendar

Bits and Pieces

Pool Calendars

Resident Interest

by Sherine George

Stonebridge Ranch News © 2015 is published by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. It is individually mailed free of charge to all residents of Stonebridge Ranch. Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807. Visit www.allenimage.com.

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Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Professionally managed by Community Management Associates (CMA) 6201 Virginia Parkway, McKinney, TX 75071 214.733.5800 • fax 214.778.0595 Courtesy Patrol 214.794.4945

Association Hours Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Association Staff Michael Lesku—Director of Operations Renee Mooney—Receptionist Laura Parker—Receptionist Candace Rickman—Executive Assistant Maria Ford—Compliance Coordinator Erica Peoples— Compliance Coordinator Rony Peterson—Compliance Coordinator Nate Russell—Compliance Coordinator Joyce Martin—M.A.R.C. Compliance Coordinator Sherine George—Communications Coordinator Michael Cawley—Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Torres—Maintenance Assistant David Wiest—Lifestyle Director Lynette Rowell—Administrative Assistant

Board of Directors Jon Dell’Antonia—President Ron Ferris—Vice-President Richard MacFee—Treasurer Michael Yon—Secretary Norm Counts—Director Tom George—Director Bill Campbell—Director Stonebridge Ranch News is the only authorized and official monthly publication for the residents of the Stonebridge Ranch community, with news and calendar of community events endorsed by the Stonebridge Ranch Association and its members. Stonebridge Ranch News is published for the residents of Stonebridge Ranch for informational purposes only. The Stonebridge Ranch Association does not guarantee any work or claims made by the advertisers and claims no responsibility or liability for statements made in the publication. Stonebridge Ranch does not in any way endorse or support, nor does it take any credit or responsibility for the services, paid or volunteer, nor statements made in articles or letters published herein not endorsed by the Association or the group decision of the Board of Directors.

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from the presIdent STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

contributing writers Jon Dell’Antonia Sherine George Michael Lesku Nate Russell

cover photo Sherine George

It’s almost time for the pools to open again This monthly newsletter is going to be somewhat longer than normal as there are a number of activities that I would like to report to you. Swimming season is almost upon us again. Our pools will open for the season on weekends only from 12-5 p.m. beginning Saturday, May 2. The pools will open full time from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. starting on Memorial Day, May 25. The Beach Club will be closed on Mondays for maintenance and the Aquatics Center on Tuesdays. Our annual Meet the Easter Bunny event was held on Saturday, March 28, with nearly 1000 in attendance. The kids had a great time finding Easter eggs, enjoying a petting zoo and several bounce houses. This is always a great event for our homeowners. City elections are scheduled for May 9. We will be electing three new city council members, one at-large and one each from District 2 and District 4. Both districts 2 and 4 are in Stonebridge Ranch. Elections have consequences (particularly local elections), so please take the time to inform yourself about the candidates and then VOTE. Typically, voter turnout is very low in local elections and that is tragic. Let’s see if we can improve the turnout from Stonebridge residents this year. Finally, the City of McKinney will be constructing a retaining wall behind 604 Kings Lake Drive. The purpose of this project is to mitigate erosion along the lake bank caused by a large storm drainage outfall pipe. The project is anticipated to begin in April or May and will take a maximum of four months to construct, barring any inclement weather. More details are available on the Stonebridge Ranch website.

March 19 Board Meeting

The board meeting of March 19 was called to order at 12:55 p.m. All board members were present. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared. The first item of business was the election of officers of the board for the coming year. Unanimously elected were: President—Jon Dell’Antonia; Vice President—Ron Ferris; Secretary—Michael Yon; Treasurer—Rich MacFee. Next was the appointment of directors as liaisons to the standing committees of the board: Amenities Committee—Director Bill Campbell; Communications Committee— Director Norm Counts; Finance Committee—Treasurer Rich MacFee; Landscape and Grounds Committee—Director Tom George; Master Architectural and Review Committee— Vice President Ron Ferris; Social Committee—Secretary Michael Yon. The next item of business was to ratify all decisions since the last board meeting including approval of the 2014 Financial Audit, approval of the appointments of Kristin Boydstun to the Communications Committee, Gerald White and Julie Lichter to the Amenities Committee and expanding the Amenities Committee from seven members to nine. We also approved the January and February board minutes.

Old Business

The board reviewed deferred violation letters, which had been on hold due to water restrictions last year. With the advent of those restrictions being lifted, the board voted to reinstate those violations as of April 1, and send out notices to have those violations repaired.

New Business

For information or to place an advertisement, please contact: Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, or call 972.727.4569.

The McCaskill Design Group presented conceptual plans and cost estimates for common area amenity enhancements in Stonebridge including La Cima Park and open space, the Beach and Tennis Club, Aquatic Center, Regents Park and Nora Haney Park. The board approved this study to look at the amenities in Stonebridge Ranch. It has been a long time since we enhanced any of our amenities. In order to keep Stonebridge Ranch competitive with new communities being built, the board felt it was time to look at what we have and what we can do to improve and upgrade our amenities. It is important to maintain our home values so that we stay competitive with new developments that surround us. We anticipate approving some improvements and upgrades in the next few months. Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

from the presI dent We reviewed and approved a variance request for aesthetic reasons for fencing in Wynn Ridge to allow wood fencing for the 17 lots, 36A through 52A that back up to the association common area instead of wrought iron fencing. The board discussed their level of involvement in reviewing and approving Communication Committee surveys. The board determined it would like to review any community-wide survey before it is conducted. The board discussed and approved a change to design guidelines for repairs to fencing to require that any repairs made to a fence shall result with the entire fence blending in appearance.

Executive Session

The board reviewed and approved the Collections report for delinquent accounts. We reviewed and made appropriate decisions on three homeowner violations that were presented to the board for resolution. We also reviewed fencing standards for alleys but no action was taken. We received an update on legal issues from our association attorney. The board approved the association’s Design Guidelines to be updated to reflect the City of McKinney standards for an engineer’s inspection report to be obtained for any retaining wall that is constructed over two feet high. Previously, our standard was four feet, but the city’s requirement is two feet and we need to be in compliance.

Association Reports

The board reviewed and approved the financial reports presented by CMA CFO Bill Partridge. The financial package contained the following reports; Financial Management Report, Balance Sheet, Variance Report, Income Statement, A/R Schedules and the Investment Schedule. Director of Operations Mike Lesku reviewed the Strategic Plan updates for 2015. Updates included status reports on the Virginia and Custer Road entry enhancements, progress on the Top Ten Meter Project, Community Room expansion plans and candidate forums scheduled for mid-April for District 2, 4 and at-large candidates sponsored by SRCA, as well as Disaster Preparedness Plan updates. The board unanimously approved three recommendations from the Amenities Committee relating to the 2015 swim season: transfer of privileges administrative fee increase from $50 to $100, Beach Club facility rental fee increase from $750 to $1000, and the implementation of a new pool guest pass to take the place of the previous guest pass that will permit use any five days throughout the swim season for $15 when accompanied by a homeowner. Board Liaison Committee Report—board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in the March committee minutes. There are some significant activities that I want to report from some of our committee activities. The Landscape and Ground Committee has been working diligently on several items:

Perennial Test Sites

In Mid-May, when perennial plants become available, installation will begin for several test sites. The test site and the entrance plant designs are as follows: 1. Cascade entrances (2) off Stonebridge Drive (design by Shades of Green).

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from the presIdent 2. Woodhaven entrance off Cotton Ridge Road (design by Precision Landscape). 3. Quail Creek entrance off Ridge Road (design by Valley Crest). 4. Enclave entrance off Lake Forest (design by Valley Crest). 5. Stanford Meadow/Summer Glen entrance off Stonebridge Drive (design by Precision Landscape). It will take about six weeks for the plants to become established and one to two years before they peak in appearance. Color bloom varies from spring to the fall and most perennials will go dormant during the winter months. The selected perennial plants are well adapted to North Texas and are more drought-tolerant than annual flowers. We are doing this because perennials will likely need replacement only after multiple years of growth rather than on a yearly basis. This has the potential to save us landscaping dollars. All test sites have drip irrigation installed. If this test is successful, we will begin a roll-out to all villages in Stonebridge.

Virginia Entrance Project

MESA Design Associates has completed the Virginia Parkway entrance design, which the Landscape and Grounds Committee has approved. Once approval is received from the city, construction bids will be reviewed and a contractor selected. The target is to complete the construction this spring.

Custer Road/Stonebridge Drive Entrance Project

We decided to manage our portion of this project directly with a landscape architect firm. Freese Nichols Inc. (FNI) has been selected as the landscape architect firm for this project. This is the same firm the City of McKinney is using for the Custer

Road expansion project and should ensure that we are “both on the same page” during the construction of this project. A topographical survey of the site has been completed and the Landscape and Grounds Committee has conducted their first meeting with FNI and provided their vision and guiding principles for the project. FNI will begin working on the conceptual design plan for review at the April committee meeting. The Social Committee has been very active with many different events. These are some of the events they are sponsoring: Coffee Talk—Coffee Talk has been held every Wednesday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room. Self-Defense Class—Twenty-four ladies attended a free selfdefense class offered by Sidekicks Martial Arts on January 17. Coffee Tasting—Fourteen residents attended a Coffee Tasting Class conducted by a certified Coffee Master from Starbucks Travel Club—The travel group meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month at the SRCA community room. They are planning an Alaskan cruise among many other events. Other upcoming events are Evenings on the Veranda, bingo, a book exchange and an electronic recycling event, to mention just a few. Watch the Stonebridge website and the monthly calendar in the magazine for even more planned events. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m. F Jon Dell’Antonia, President

Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

thIs month’ s feature Summers in Stonebridge by Sherine George Whether you want to take the family out for a relaxing day at the Beach Club or sail on Lake Stonebridge, you will never be at a loss for things to do this summer. Living in Stonebridge Ranch has the benefit of providing many of the amenities you find on vacation, without ever having to leave your neighborhood. Through the variety of summer activities planned by Lifestyle Director Dave Wiest, summers in Stonebridge take on a meaning of their own. This year Wiest chose not to break away from the usual repertoire of summer offerings for residents—and for good reason. “We keep replicating our schedule of summer activities because it’s been so well received by our residents,” says Wiest. The Memorial Day Beach Party kicks off the start of the season and activities run through the course of the summer, with the last summer event being the Beach Club Pool Party in August. “The Beach Club is part of our brand. When you think of Stonebridge Ranch, you think of our lush parkways and you think of our sandy beach,“says Director of Operations

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Mike Lesku. With over 45,000 people visiting the Beach Club last year, it is safe to say that it is the most soughtafter amenity within Stonebridge. “We put so much emphasis on keeping the experience unique and enjoyable. We want it to be a one-of-a-kind destination. In fact, there are only three other sites in the nation comparable to our Beach Club,” adds Lesku. In the past year, there have been various additions: two new sailboats, new paddleboats and barbeque grills and even updated pool furniture. These fresh new additions help make Stonebridge Ranch a one-of-a-kind destination. It is not uncommon for homeowners to utilize their guest pass and bring visiting family members for a day at the Beach Club. SRCA’s Beach Club parties are held on Monday evenings in June, July and August. “One of the great things about the Beach Club parties is that they are on nights when the pool is closed,” says Wiest. We provide hotdogs and a live band. Residents watch the sunset while sitting on the beach—people really have a good time.” In addition to the Beach Club parties, there are several

thIs month’ s feature

family-style activities during the holidays (Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day). Activities at the Beach Club include tug-of-war, paddle boat races, hula-hoop contests and more. Evening on the Veranda is unique in that it’s an adult only (21 and up) event and is held on Friday nights in May, June, September and October.

“People come with their lawn chairs and favorite wine. We provide food and live music,” adds Wiest. From paddleboats to tennis lessons, there is something for everyone at Stonebridge Ranch! So be sure to check out the online calendar (www.stonebridgeranch.com) to see what else is coming up this summer. F

Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

complIance tI p s Pet Compliance by Nate Russell

Pets running around a village can be frustrating to any homeowner. That is why the City of McKinney has a leash law in effect providing that no dog or cat can leave any home or fenced backyard area without being leashed and accompanied by its owner. Each owner is responsible for removing animal feces. This applies to cats as well. Cats who wander around the villages are prone to get into trash and have been known to tear up other residentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s porch furniture. Any complaints regarding animal noise or animals running around without owners should be directed to the City of McKinney Animal Control office at 972.547.7445. If you want to build a home for your furry friend, all you need to do is look over the guidelines on our website at www.stonebridgeranch.com. All of our design guidelines are listed for any project you want to begin. You do not have to submit a modification application for a doghouse as long as you follow the guidelines. Some key pointers on doghouses are:

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complIance tI ps • They can only be in the rear yard or the side yard. • Your doghouse cannot be bigger than 15 square feet. • If you have a doghouse, it has to be behind a 6-foot privacy fence, or some other form of screen, so it cannot be seen from the public right-of-way or golf courses. • You can only have one doghouse per lot. • Doghouses need to be made of wood, plastic or resin construction. If you would like to build a dog run, you once again do not need approval as long as the guidelines are followed. Here are a few points from the guidelines: • Your fence has to be five feet high or less. • You dog run needs to be smaller than 35 square feet. • If you have a dog run it has to be behind a 6-foot privacy fence or some other form of screen so it cannot be seen from the public right-of-way or golf courses. • You can only have one dog run per lot. • Your dog run needs to have a concrete slab and be cleaned often to avoid a foul smell. If you have any questions about pet guidelines or any other compliance issues, feel free to call us or come see us at the office. We‘re here for you and would love to help with any concerns you may have. Please help us keep Stonebridge beautiful and let’s keep our pets safe. The Modifications Committee is looking for a few good men and women. We are currently accepting applications for volunteers to join the committee and take part in becoming a leader in Stonebridge. Please reference our website to download and complete the Committee Volunteer Form if you are interested. All forms should be dropped off at the association office. Thank you for your compliance! Rony Peterson, Maria Ford, Nate Russell, Joyce Martin, Erica Peoples, CMA Compliance Coordinators, Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc. F

April Compliance Quiz Answers We received a lot of responses again this past month for our Compliance Quiz! If you were stumped for answers, I have posted them below. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Doghouse Retaining wall Outdoor fireplace Fountains Basketball goal Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

InsId e the ranch Pool Season Has Arrived! by Michael Lesku The Beach Club and Aquatic Center pools will be open on weekends from May 2 through May 24, and will be opening full time beginning the week of May 25. Please refer to the 2015 pool schedules posted on the association website, www.stonebridgeranch.com, for more details on the operating hours for the Beach Club and Aquatic Center. Remember that usage of the association common areas, including both association pools, is permitted for Stonebridge Ranch residents that are in good standing and have a valid Stonebridge Ranch photo ID card or other form of ID that includes a current photo and Stonebridge Ranch address, such as a valid Texas drivers license. The Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions state that the association will suspend the right of any owner to use the common area properties for any period during which an assessment remains unpaid. With that said, the gate guards at both the Beach Club and Aquatic Center pools will be checking the account status of each resident as they check into the pool. If your account reflects an outstanding balance, the gate guards have been told to instruct residents

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to contact the association office, at which time arrangements can be made to bring the account current. Providing a safe and clean environment for residents and their guests at the pools is the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s number one priority. Historically, our pool operations team has been able to achieve this on a consistent basis, however, an alarming trend has come to our attention that requires the help of all Stonebridge Ranch residents in addressing. The issue is the increasing number of water rescues being performed by our lifeguard team on young children that are

InsIde the ranch

being left unattended. Over the past three swim seasons, lifeguards have performed 42 water rescues at the pools, with the majority of those rescues taking place at the Beach Club. We are extremely fortunate that none of these incidents ended tragically. The association is doing what it can to ensure that a tragic event does not occur at either pool, but we also need the assistance of our residents. When bringing children to

the pools, we encourage all parents/guardians/caregivers to keep tabs on where their children are in the facility at all times. If possible, accompany small children into the pool. While it may appear that the Beach pool is not very deep, it is five feet deep in the middle of the pool and when the pool gets busy, a small child can get lost amongst the swimmers and end up in distress. Taking proactive measures to ensure you know where your child is, and that you can see them, will not only provide you with peace of mind but also help reduce the likelihood of your child becoming distressed. Another key contributor to providing a safe and clean environment is the commitment of association residents and their guests to observe the pool rules. The rules can be found by visiting the association website, www.stonebridgeranch. com, under the Documents and Forms Library tab. The document in the library that includes the swim rules is the Resident Handbook. We have also included a copy of the swim rules on page 20 of this edition of the newsletter. The pool operations team has been asked to be diligent in enforcing these rules so please do your part by being knowledgeable about the rules and making a commitment to observing those rules when visiting the pools. Thank you all in advance for your help and support in observing the pool rules and keeping our association pools safe and clean. Enjoy your summer. F

Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29

TGIF Coffee 1 p.m. (cr)

May 9 saturda

May 2

Hook, line & sinker children’s fishing

May 9 electronic

tournament 9 a.m. (WP)

May 12

Morning

may 5, 6 book exchange Drop Off (CR)

MAY 15

Stonebridge

May 6, 13, 20, 27 coffee talk 8:30 a.m. (CR)

May 19 travel c

may 7 book exchange night 5 p.m. (CR)

May 25

Memoria

May 8 evening on the veranda 7:30 p.m. (btc) ARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)

Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

Book Exchange Drop Off 6 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

Coffee Talk, 8:30 Book Exchange a.m. (CR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Morning Bingo (CR) 9 a.m. Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Strolle

3:30-7 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

Memorial Day at the Beach 11 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

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ARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR)

Social Committe 9 a.m. (BR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ

rday morning coffee talk 8:30 a.m. (cr)

ectronic & paper recycling event 9:30 A.M.

orning bingo 9 a.m.(CR)

TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

tonebridge Singles Concert 6 p.m. (DMA)

Hook. Line & Sinker Children’s Fishing tournament 9 a.m. (WP)

club 9 A.M. (CR)

emorial day at the beach 11 a.m. (btc)

Drop Off, 8:30

Book Exchange Night, 5 p.m. (CR)

r Strides (BTC)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

0 a.m. (CR)

nis Classes, my (BTC)

nnis Classes, my (BTC)

0 a.m. (CR)

ee Meeting,

r Strides (BTC)

nis Classes, my (BTC)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

0 a.m. (CR)

Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR)

r Strides (BTC)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

nis Classes, my (BTC)

Evening on the Veranda, 7:30 p.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Saturday Morning Coffee Talk, 8:30 a.m. (CR) Electronic & Paper Recycling Event, 9:30 a.m. (BTC)

TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)

0 a.m. (CR)

er Strides (BTC)

TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)

Stonebridge Singles Concert, 6 p.m. (Dallas Museum of Art) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.

TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)

Stonebridge Ranch HOA News News x Mayx 2015 September 2013

Based on your feedback, we have extended our Photo ID Schedule, providing residents with more dates and times to obtain your ID. We have added an additional 40 hours per week to the schedule. Feel free to swing by on your lunch break (Monday-Friday) or even on your way home from work (we are open until 7:30 pm on Mondays and Thursdays!)

Do I need a Photo ID?

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bIts & pIe ces

Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

fInancIal update Inside the HOA Budget by Michael Lesku

This month I will be providing a breakdown of the sixth largest association expense category—Pool Operations and Lake Maintenance. Pool Operations and Lake Maintenance costs include those expenses associated with the operations of the Beach Club and Aquatics Center pools, along with monthly treatment of the community lakes. The Beach Club and Aquatic Center pools are by far the most popular and most utilized amenities the association offers to its residents. In fact, 63,500 visits were made to the association pools in 2014. The annual expense to operate both association pools is $511,003 which includes gate monitors and lifeguard staff for both pools during the swim season, chemical costs, pool equipment, repairs, supplies and signage. The pools are open from the first weekend in May through the last weekend in September.

Pool Operations and Lake Maintenance Facts • 63,500 visits were made to the association pools in 2014. • The annual costs to operate the association pools is $511,003.

• The association has 15 lakes, of which most can be used for fishing.

Another popular and frequently used association amenity is the lakes. The association has 15 lakes, of which most can be used by residents for fishing. The annual expense to maintain the association lakes is $36,285 and includes weekly inspections of all 15 lakes along with the cost for chemicals to control algae and weed growth in the lakes. As always, I’m available by phone or email if you have comments or questions. F

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lIfestyle McKinney Ladies Association

The McKinney Ladies Association is thinking “historically” for their May meeting! Chestnut Square will be the location for the final meeting of the 2014-15 season, on Monday, May 12. Chestnut Square Historic Village brings Collin County history to life with events, educational programs and tours. The collection of ten historic houses and buildings represents life in Collin County from 1850-1930. Join us to learn more about this special historic area of McKinney. We will meet at the Bevel House at 7 p.m., and enjoy a bit of history and learn how much this special gem of McKinney has to offer. MLA is dedicated to supporting the children and families of our community through special events and fundraising efforts organized by MLA. Each month, MLA gathers for food, friendship and fellowship while supporting a different local charity. For meeting details or more information about this women’s service organization, please visit www.McKinneyLadies.org.

McKinney Area Newcomers Club If you are new to the McKinney area, or you have had a life style change, come join us for fun, information and friendship at our monthly Coffee Meeting. Every month we have great speakers, nice door prizes, tasty refreshments and lots of socializing with new friends. For more information on Newcomers, visit www. mckinneynewcomers.com Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, May 19, in the Eva Joplin Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 Virginia Parkway in McKinney. Social time with refreshments will begin at 9:30 a.m. F

Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

Swim Season Rules And Regulations Beach Club & Aquatic Center • Stonebridge Ranch Resident ID cards or other form of ID that includes a current photo and Stonebridge Ranch address, such as a valid Texas drivers license, are required upon entry. • At the Aquatic Center and Beach Club, children under age 12 must be accompanied by a person at least 18 years of age. • The Aquatic Center and Beach Club are both smoke-free facilities. • Food and drinks are welcome!—GLASS CONTAINERS ARE PROHIBITED. • Please keep pets outside the Beach Club and Aquatic Center fence area. • Swim suits only—NO CUT-OFFS, SHORTS OR THONG BATHING SUITS. • Infants and small children are required to wear swim diapers and plastic pants. • For your safety—DIVING IS NOT PERMITTED! • Flotation devices are permitted with the exception of rafts. Any child wearing a life vest must stay in the pool area; an adult must be with them AT ALL TIMES. • Toys may be used at the discretion of the lifeguards. No large water guns are allowed. • Please walk in Beach and Pool area—NO RUNNING OR HORSEPLAY!! • Please keep in-line skates, bicycles, skateboards, etc. outside the Beach Club, Aquatic Center fence area and tennis courts. • Chairs are not permitted in the water due to possible damage to underground pipes. • Food and drinks must be kept beyond sand and out of water at the Beach Club. • To operate the sailboats a person must have sailing experience. Pool schedules can be found by visiting the website www.stonebridgeranch.com.

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Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

resId ent I n terest Village Spotlight: Stanford Meadow by Sherine George

Located on South Coronado Drive, between Stonebridge Drive and Hillsdale Drive, the village of Stanford Meadow consists of about 225 homes. Although the land was always a part of Stonebridge Ranch, the first home was built in 2000. One of the main draws to living in Stanford Meadow is its location. The village is located near the Stonebridge Ranch

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Aquatic Center with easy access to main roads, neighboring churches and elementary schools. The community also has its own park in the middle of its Phase 1 development. Residents in Stanford Meadow are seeking to connect with one another through the addition of social activities. A few Stanford Meadow residents have started a private Facebook page and a village e-mail address to facilitate communications. “Our plans are to hold a spring party at our park and gather support for future activities. We have had several residents express an interest in taking charge of planning a National Night Out event for this coming fall, ” says David Wilson, Stanford Meadow resident. “In October 2014, we held a village meeting in one of our homes and invited all village residents to attend. We announced plans to start our activities with a joint venture of decorating our three village entrances. There was an overwhelming response and we collected enough funds to purchase reindeer, new full-length garlands and lights for all five of our monuments. The Sunday after Thanksgiving, a group of volunteers gathered to put up the decorations.” Residents of the village that wish to receive news about the community’s news and events should email StanfordMeadowsVillage@outlook.com. Looking to get your village featured in an upcoming issue of the magazine? Send us pictures and tidbits on what makes your community special to sgeorge@ cmamanagement.com. F

around the ranch

Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

from your neI g hbor Culinary Classics From Your Neighbor Stephanie Cox-Faust and her family have lived in Stonebridge Ranch for 15 years. Stephanie moved to Stonebridge Ranch from South Florida and Ken, her Stephanie’s 9-year-old twins husband, moved from southern California. They currently reside in Woodland Bridge with their 9-year-old twins. “We love that it is such a small community and that the homes are different—we were able to have a stucco home, which is a bit of Florida and California right here in Texas.” Stephanie kindly shared her husband’s favorite pie with her fellow neighbors. “He asks for it every year for his birthday and I make it every year for Easter. We, of course, have it at other times, but it is a bit of a treat for us since it isn’t low-fat. I got the recipe from my mother. It was a recipe

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she grew up making with my grandmother so it’s a bit of a family tradition. The secret to this pie is to use whole milk. Do not substitute with low fat or skim because it will not set correctly. If you want to make an adult version you can add some rum. I love it because it is so easy and I usually have all the ingredients on hand.“

Crustless Coconut Pie 4 eggs, beaten 1-3/4 c. sugar 2 c. whole milk (do not substitute) 3/4 stick butter, melted 3/4 c. all purpose flour 1 tsp. vanilla 2 c. shredded coconut Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients and mix well. Pour into a greased 9-inch, deep-dish pie pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes. Serves 6-8. We are working towards a Stonebridge Ranch cookbook. Please join in on the fun and share your favorite recipe with us—and the story behind it! Did you serve it at your wedding? Was the recipe in your family? Maybe you discovered it while on vacation? We want to know! Please email your recipe to sgeorge@cmamanagement.com and we will try to include it in an upcoming issue. F

socIal scene Summer Camps 2015 10 & Under

10 & Under tennis is an exciting new play format for learning tennis designed to bring kids into the game by adapting the equipment, court dimensions and the scoring to the age and size of the children. 10 & Under tennis enables kids to have more enjoyable experiences early on in the learning process and having fun is the number one factor in keeping kids involved. Time: 10-11 a.m. Cost: $65 per week.

Future Star Camp (ages 11 & up)

This class is designed for beginner and intermediate players ages 11 and up. Players will be placed in groups according to ability level. All aspects of the game will be covered in this class. Time: 10-11:30 a.m. Cost: $85 per week

Tennis Academy

For players who are competing in ZAT, Champ and Super Champ tournaments. Topics covered include stroke production, tactics and strategy, quickness drills and mental toughness and match play. Players should be at a high level of fitness before attending this camp. Time: 8-11 a.m.—Drills & Fitness; 12-2 p.m.—Match Play Cost: Full Camp—$299 per week; Morning Session only—$199 per week; Match Camp Session only—$165 per week (space limited)

14th Annual Summer Spectacular Kid’s Camp

This camp is for kids ages 6-10 and includes tennis, swimming, arts and crafts and lunch. Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: $150 Date: July 27-30 Tennis Camp Dates: Week 1—Jun. 8-11, Week 2—Jun. 15-18, Week 3—Jun. 22-25, Week 4—Jun. 29-Jul. 2, Week 5—Jul. 6-9, Week 6—Jul. 13-16, Week 7—Jul. 20-23, Week 8—Jul. 27-30, Week 9—Aug. 3-6, Week 10—Aug.10-13, Week 11—Aug. 17-20 Camp Policies And Procedures Due to inclement weather, Fridays will be used as make-up days for all camps. If you are uncertain whether classes will be held or not due to inclement weather, a message will be posted on www.TennisCoachDave.com one-half hour before class time. A 10% discount will be given to all students signing up for multiple weeks. It is the parent’s responsibility to take off the 10% prior to sending the check. Registration can also be done online at www.TennisCoachDave.com or mail to Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, 6201 Virginia Parkway, McKinney, TX 75071 attn. Dave Wiest. Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

socIal scene Hook, Line & Sinker Children’s Fishing Tournament The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association would like to invite all of our junior anglers out to the 17th Annual Hook, Line & Sinker Children’s Fishing Tournament at Wellington Pond (first 3 ponds starting with the one closest to Stonebridge Drive) on Saturday, May 2. The tournament will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. and the raffle drawing and awards presentation beginning at 11 a.m. Trophies will be awarded to the children who catch the nine biggest fish and the one smallest fish (any species). Other activities include a free raffle drawing for prizes and a hot dog cookout with refreshments. Anglers are responsible for bringing their own fishing pole. Bait will be supplied but you may bring your own. Wellington Pond is on Wellington Point Drive, which is located north of the corner of Stonebridge Drive and Glen Oaks Drive.

Saturday Morning Coffee Talk

Can’t make it to our weekday Coffee Talk? Join us for refreshments at our upcoming Coffee, Cars & Conversation, Saturday, May 9, 8:30-9:30 a.m., in the SBR Community Room (near the entrance of the Beach Club). Stonebridge residents only. Coffee, water and donuts will be provided. Bring your classic/fancy car to park in the circular drive!

Morning Bingo

It’s a great time to make new friends so please join us on Tuesday, May 12, from 9 to 10:30 a.m., for a morning of bingo and prizes in the Community Room located at the Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club. We will have donuts and coffee on hand. Seating is limited to the first 36. Sign up online by visiting http://whoozin.com/7PDWMG-3HEJ. This is an adult only event for Stonebridge Ranch residents only and there is no charge.

Memorial Day at the Beach Club 11 a.m.-4 p.m.—UPTOWNSOUND (playing all of your favorite tunes) Text 214.491.8283 to request a song. 11 a.m.—Paddle Boat Races (lake) 12 p.m.—Bouncy Ball Races (volleyball court) 1 p.m.—Tug of War (volleyball court) 2 p.m.—Hula Hoop Contest (swimming pool) 2:45 p.m.—Limbo (volleyball court) 3:30 p.m.—Sky High Prize Launching (heads up) Attention! The Beach Club Pool will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Memorial Day. The Aquatic Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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socIal scene Stonebridge Singles Concert at the Dallas Museum of Art When: May 15, 6 p.m. Where: DMA Atrium, 1717 N. Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201 Band: Black Rocker a performance by Kevin Beasley

Relax and enjoy the entertainment in the Atrium while dining on dishes inspired by the DMA’s collection and exhibitions, 6-10 p.m. Bar service is available until 11 p.m. www.dma.org/programs-late-nights/schedule-events. Please email Cindy to RSVP at galvanlaw@att.net or to request more information.

TGIF Coffee

Fridays, 1-2 p.m. Community Room (Near the entrance of the Beach Club.)

Take a break and join us for an end of the week pickme-up. New to the area and have questions? Working from home and could use some conversation? Waiting for the kids to get home from school? Coffee, tea and water will be provided.

Book Exchange

Bring your old books and exchange them for something new! Fiction, nonfiction, children’s…For every book you bring, you take one. Extra books will be donated. Drop off days (Community Room): Tuesday, May 5, 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday, May 6, 8:30-10:30 a.m. during Coffee Talk. Exchange night (Community Room)— Thursday, May 7, 5-8 p.m. The Community Room is located next to the Beach Club entrance.

Stonebridge Ranch Apparel

Show your community pride! Stonebridge Ranch t-shirts (and more) are now available for purchase. Choose from a variety of apparel including sport shirts, polo shirts, sweatshirts, denim button-ups, visors and baseball caps. The merchandise is available in a selection of colors and you can even pick the color of the SB logo, in either of our official Stonebridge Ranch colors: royal blue and white. Please visit http:// tinyurl.com/SBtees and show us how much you love living in Stonebridge Ranch. F Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015

socIal scene Stonebridge Ranch 2nd Annual Recycling Event May 9, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club, 6201 Virginia Pkwy. For details call: David Wiest, dwiest@ cmamanagement.com Stonebridge Ranch is partnering again with United Electronic Recycling (UER) to help Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle electronic equipment. Bring your old, broken, or unwanted electronic equipment and UER will make sure it is properly recycled. This will be a great opportunity for spring cleaning. In addition to the electronic recycling, we will have a truck on-site for paper and document shredding. At this event, we are also including a Blood Drive (Carter BloodCare), Food Drive (the Samaritan Inn), Clothing Drive (Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advocacy Center of Collin County) and a Red Kettle for cash donations to the Salvation Army. For more information about the Blood Drive and how you can help, go to: https://ww2. greatpartners.org/donor/schedules /drive_schedule/62723. Summer months are the most critical months for the blood banks and they need your help desperately. If you are a business with bulk amounts of material and you would like to participate, please contact Jerry Walker at 214.864.9443 or jwalker@uerteam.com. F

Upcoming June Events 1 Beach Club Pool Party 8 Teen Mixer 11 Movie Night 12 Evening on the Veranda 16 Travel Club 18 Kids Splash Hop

Coffee Talk every Wednesday TGIF Coffee every Friday

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”Conchal”

Meet Conchal! He was named after a beach in Costa Rica and he was born November 17, after his mama, a pregnant stray dog, wandered onto a rural property. The owners were never located and soon the mom gave birth to nine babies. Legacy Humane Society was contacted to take them into foster care. Conchal is currently in a foster home with two personal dogs, other foster dogs and a cat, and he gets along great with all of them. He is just a baby, so he will need a family with the time and patience to teach him how to be the best doggie he can be. He will weigh about 35 pounds when he is fully grown. The adoption fee includes his neutering, three sets of vaccinations, microchip, rabies and first dose of heartworm preventive. All he needs now is a forever home with a fenced yard to call his own. If you are interested in adopting Conchal please complete an online application today at: http:// www.legacyhumanesociety.org/adoptionapplication/. Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2015