STANDARD RATE U.S. POSTAGE
PAID Allen, TX Permit 178
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS DECEMBER 2015
22
Vol. 3, Issue 12
Contents 26
IN EVERY ISSUE 5
From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia
8
This Month’s Feature by Michael Lesku
10 www.stonebridgeranch.com by Sherine George
16
Community Calendar
18
Your Neighbor by Sherine George
21
Compliance Tips by Nate Russell
24 Lifestyle 25
Around the Ranch
26
From Your Neighbor
30
Social Scene
SPECIAL SECTIONS 12
Bits and Pieces
14
Your Home
22
Resident Interest
27
Pet Page
28
Landscape & Grounds
12
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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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
Five years in a row with no increase in the annual assessment The October 8 board meeting was all about approving the 2016 budget. The board once again approved the budget with no increase in the annual assessment. It will remain at $740. For the fifth year in a row there will be no increase in the annual assessment. This is due to the fiscal accountability of this board and good management practices by our association. Thanksgiving has passed and Christmas will soon be here. I hope you will make plans to attend our annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony scheduled for Thursday, December 3 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. October 8 Board Meeting The board meeting was called to order at 1 p.m. Five board members were present. Board member Bill Campbell was absent. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared. As I mentioned above, the meeting was all about the budget for 2016. Our annual budget to operate the association is over $7 million. The board reviewed the current 2015 budget variance report in preparation for the discussion of the proposed 2016 budget. We reviewed in detail all of the items in the proposed budget with appropriate discussion and made several changes. At the conclusion of our budget deliberations, the board approved the 2016 budget with no increase in the annual assessment. It will remain at $740. Old Business The board reviewed the current status of the water levels in the Wellington Point ponds and heard an update on the Community room expansion. New Business The only new business was the discussion of the 2016 budget as noted above. The meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m. October 22 Board Meeting The board meeting of October 22 was called to order at 1 p.m. All board members were present. As I mentioned last month, Mike Lesku, our Association Director of Operations, has accepted a new position at our management company’s (CMA) corporate office and assumed his new duties on October 26. While we are searching for his replacement, CMA’s Vice President of On-Site Operations Pam Grundy will be serving as our interim Director and will be located in our office at the Beach Club. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared at the forum. One homeowner attended the meeting. The first item of business was to ratify all meeting minutes and decisions since the last board meeting. Old Business We discussed the current status of the low water levels in some Wellington Point ponds and approved a proposal to use existing facilities to pump water between ponds to attempt to level out the pond levels. We also had an update on the status of the community room expansion. Construction should be in process by the time you read this newsletter. There will be a color board on display in the association office showcasing the design, furniture and fixtures for the enlarged community room. Events scheduled for the community room during the construction phase have been relocated to the conference room in the main building. Completion is anticipated by March. We also approved the written copy of our Disaster Recovery Plan. New Business The construction manager we engaged to review potential costs for our proposed Aquatic Center enhancement project presented revised costs at the 60% design level for the Civic Plaza portion of the project. They will continue to further refine the cost estimates before we approve any construction. We also approved construction of a pool chemical room at the Aquatic Center for the separate storage of corrosive chemicals and an additional gate to the pool area so we can make restrooms available for special events when the pool is closed. We also reviewed and approved the Communications editorial calendar for 2016. Executive Session Our legal counsel updated the board on the status of legal issues. We also reviewed and made appropriate decisions on two homeowner violations that were presented to the board for resolution.
For information or to place an advertisement, please contact: Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, or call 972.727.4569.
Association Reports Director of Operations Lesku reviewed Strategic Plan updates including status reports on the Virginia road entry project, which is now complete. Additional reports were presented on the Custer Road entry project expected to begin next spring, community room expansion project, top ten meter project, the potential Aquatic Center enhancement project and the disaster preparedness plan. Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in committee minutes. There is now a Strategic Plan website page so homeowners can follow the progress the board is making. The meeting adjourned at 5:03 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch News x December 2015
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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 Pam Grundy—Interim Director of Operations 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 Norm Counts—Treasurer Michael Yon—Secretary 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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thIs month’ s feature 2016 Assessments by Michael Lesku It’s that time of the year again. Your 2016 annual assessment statement will be arriving in the mail soon with a due date of January 1, 2016. The board of directors voted this year not to increase the assessment fee. It is the same amount as your 2015 assessment ($740). Each and every owner of a platted lot is obligated to pay an annual assessment. It is important that assessments be paid in a timely manner in order to avoid additional fees. Please refer to page 10 for details on how to receive an e-statement. Listed below are payment options that are accepted by Stonebridge Ranch Community Association: E-check—Available through www.stonebridgeranch.com at no additional cost. Processed in 1-2 business days.
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Double check all payment requests with your bank to be sure your information was entered correctly and verify with CMA that your account was credited with the payment. Credit Card—Available through www.stonebridgeranch.com. Processed the next business day. It is the responsibility of the owner to pay any additional charges by a third party for these types of payments or for charges due to information that is entered incorrectly. On-Site Office Payment—The association office, located at 6201 Virginia Parkway (Beach and Tennis Club), is equipped to accept payments via check or money order only. The association office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
thIs month’ s feature
Mailing a check directly to the bank’s lockbox—We recommend mailing your payment well in advance of the due date (at least 10 days). Automatic Bill Pay Service—When you choose to pay online through your bank, the payment amount typically is drawn from your account on the same day; however, your bank may not cut and mail a paper
check until your indicated “deliver by” date. Different banks have different timelines; please check with your bank for further information. Please allow sufficient time for your bank to process and mail your payment. This payment process differs from e-checking. If you are having difficulties meeting your financial obligations, please contact the association office at 214.733.5800. Unfortunately, making a partial payment will not stop the collection process. Please be aware that all charges associated with a delinquent account are the owner ’s responsibility. The hard costs charged by banks, management or attorneys are billed to and paid by the association if we have not received your payment. Your association board addresses these issues every month. Assessments are the foundation upon which the association operates. In an effort to maintain the amenities we all enjoy, we ask for your assistance. F
Stonebridge Ranch News x December 2015
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www.stonebrI dgeranch.com Go green with e-statements! by Sherine
George
You no longer have to limit “going green“ to recycling soda cans and watching water usage. Cut down on that heap of mail piling up on your kitchen counter by taking advantage of our e-statements. What are e-statements? Your HOA statement sent to you via e-mail! This is an easy, paperless way to receive your assessment statement. After receiving the bill via email, you can always choose to print a copy for your records or save one electronically. How do you pay an e-statement? The payment methods are the same. Payment can be set up with your bank for automatic bill pay, or through CMA for credit card, e-check, check or recurring electronic payments.
The move to paperless transactions
Many of our SRCA owners prefer to receive online notifications instead of paper statements. They’re convenient and eco-friendly. Additionally, Stonebridge Ranch reduces the expense of printing and mailing assessments. If you already receive e-statements for your mortgage, homeowners insurance and utility bills, converting to e-statements for your SRCA assessments is an easy transition. Here’s how you set-up e-statements on the SRCA website at www.stonebridgeranch.com: 1. Log on to your online account. If you don’t have an account, you can create one by selecting the Register button.
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www.stonebrIdgeranch.com 2. Go to the drop-down menu titled Homeowner Connection and select My Profile. 3. Scroll to the second section of the form titled Statement Information. 1. Select the following option: Send e-statements to the following. 2. Enter your email address in the requested fields. 3. Scroll to the bottom of the page and select the Submit button.
4. You will receive the following message on the top of the page verifying that your submittal has been successfully received. Your profile has been SUCCESSFULLY updated. F
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bIt s & pI eces New Homeowner Welcome Party by Sherine George
Here’s what our new homeowners had to share on why they chose Stonebridge Ranch and their experience thus far: Over 100 new Stonebridge Ranch homeowners gathered this past October at the Stonebridge Ranch Country Club for the New Homeowner Welcome Party. Homeowners really enjoyed meeting one another and appreciated the opportunity to meet their dedicated board and committee members. From brochures on Stonebridge Ranch amenities, to details on upcoming social events, there was no shortage of information available to homeowners.
“We looked at cities all around the Dallas area, but every time we came to see a house in Stonebridge Ranch we immediately noticed the high standard of the landscaping— from the medians to the individual homes. The beauty of it all, along with the amenities and great schools had us sold on Stonebridge Ranch!” -Erin and Afshin Salehi “Moving from West Texas, our family was unfamiliar with the plethora of charming neighborhoods in McKinney,
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bIts & pIe ces was well run and its board members were professional, yet warm and friendly.” - Jacqui C. “We love being a part of the Stonebridge community! There is a real sense of neighborhood comradery. Everyone we meet is friendly and welcoming. Not to mention all of the fun free events and festivals, like Halloween Spooktacular and Playdate in the Park.” -Chelsea Obinegbo F
so we found a home that suited us first...which just happened to be in Stonebridge Ranch.” -Bob and Jessica Price ”We moved from Las Vegas to Stonebridge Ranch in August to be near our son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren whom live in Stonebridge. We love the beautiful and friendly area.” -Diane and Joe Riggs “The New Homeowner Welcome Party provided an excellent venue to meet members of the board and to meet and mix with fellow new homeowners. The board members I met were very engaging and seemed to genuinely care about the homeowners’ interests and welfare. I wanted to live in the Stonebridge community because I had heard it
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your home Keep Warm, But Safe December, January and February are the deadliest months for home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). And, heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires and home fire deaths. That’s why it’s important for you and your loved ones to take extra precautions during the winter. Thinking of buying a space heater? The NFPA recommends that you make sure it carries the mark of an independent testing laboratory. Install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions or have it professionally installed. If you have an electric-powered space heater, plug it into an outlet with sufficient capacity. Never use an extension cord.
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your home Turn off space heaters whenever the room is unoccupied or when manufacturer’s instructions say they should be turned off. Portable space heaters are easy to knock over in the dark. Turn them off when you go to bed, or at least make sure they’re placed in lighted areas or out of high-traffic areas. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, use only dry, seasoned wood to avoid the build-up of creosote, an oily deposit that easily catches fire and accounts for most chimney fires and the largest share of home-heating fires. Use only paper or kindling wood, not a flammable liquid, to start the fire. Do not use artificial logs in wood stoves.
Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room. After the ashes are cool, dispose of them in a metal container, which is kept a safe distance from your home. Make sure fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside, that the venting is kept clear and unobstructed, and that the exit point is properly sealed around the vent. This is to make sure deadly carbon monoxide does not build up in the home Other reminders from the National Fire Protection Association include: • Don’t use your oven to heat your home. • Inspect all heating equipment annually and clean as necessary. • Test smoke alarms monthly; install a carbon monoxide alarm outside each sleeping area. For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. F
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december 2, 9, 16 & 23 coffee talk 8:30 a.m. (br) december 3 Tree Lighting 5:30 p.m. (btc) december 4 PlayDate in the Park 10 a.m. (NH) december 4, 11, 18 TGIF Coffee 1 p.m. (br) december 7, 14, 21, 28 Walking club 9 a.m. (BTC) december 8 bingo 7 p.M. (Br) december 14 Travel club 9 a.m. (br) december 14 book club 7 p.m. (br) december 19 coffee, cars & Conversation 8:30 a.m. (BTC)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)
Coffee Talk, 8:30 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) Bingo 7 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Modifications Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (BR)
Book Club, 7 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) 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)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
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Coffee Talk, 8:30
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Social Committe 9 a.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Travel Club, 9 a.m. (BR)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
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 S
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenni Select Tennis Academy
0 a.m. (BR) Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
Tree Lighting Ceremony and Photos with Santa, 5:30 p.m. (BTC)
Playdate in the Park, 10 a.m., (NH) TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (BR)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
r Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
ee Meeting,
r Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (BR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (BR)
Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Coffee, Cars & Conversation, 8:30 a.m. (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
r Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
Strides (BTC)
is Classes, y (BTC)
Stonebridge Stonebridge Ranch Ranch News News xx December December 2015 2015
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your neIg hbor Resident Spotlight: Cheryl Unnone by Sherine George
SRCA: Tell us a little bit about yourself. What brought you to Stonebridge Ranch?
My husband, Michael, our two teenage sons and I moved to Texas from northern Virginia in November 2013 into the village of Wyndsor Grove. Immediately we all felt very fortunate to have ended up in Texas, let alone Stonebridge Ranch in McKinney. We’re grateful a new telecom job for my husband brought us further south.
SRCA: Why did you decide to get involved with the Social Committee?
Being new to Texas without knowing a soul, I knew what it was like to feel out of place. I have always committed significant time throughout my life as a volunteer and felt that by joining the Social Committee I
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your neIghbor could help the current members find new ways to bring residents together, welcome new residents and create that sense of community. We live in such a large community that by offering social events and clubs, residents can meet others with common interests at these events. After months on the committee, I stepped up to my current position as secretary.
SRCA: What does the Social Committee do?
The Social Committee essentially brings residents together through social functions to help encourage a sense of community. We brainstorm ideas and discuss ways to improve events along with our Stonebridge Ranch board liaison, association manager and lifestyle director. We take advantage of the wonderful amenities Stonebridge Ranch has to offer and create a calendar of events around them. For example, various pool parties, Coffee Talk and TGIF, Walking Club using our extensive walking paths, Playdate in the Park touring the 12 pocket parks within the villages and the list goes on. There is at least one committee member at each event to greet residents. Look for us (we’re the talkative ones), we can help answer your questions or direct you to someone that can.
SRCA: What kind of community members serve the Social Committee? Do you need a specific skill set or background to be a Social Committee member?
The Social Committee consists of 5-7 residents with wide demographics originating from all over the country. This allows vast personal experiences, ideas and thoughts to help plan a well-rounded social calendar. The type of personality the Social Committee attracts is one that is friendly, outgoing, likes to express ideas and compromises.
SRCA: What Social Committee accomplishments are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of how we as a committee were able to significantly increase the activities on the social calendar this year. Several times a week there are opportunities to attend a social function. From clubs that meet weekly and monthly to our much anticipated once-a-year events.
SRCA: Outside of serving the community through the Social Committee, what other hobbies or special interests do you have?
Most of my time is devoted to an online decorative pillow/home décor business that I own. Designing, sewing and maintaining two websites keeps me very busy. I also love to take road trips with my family, especially exploring our new home state. I’m only thirteen states away from seeing all of this wonderful country. My motto is: if it’s less than 19 hours away...road trip!
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your neIg hbor SRCA: What are some of your most memorable moments to date in Stonebridge Ranch?
One of my most memorable moments in Stonebridge Ranch was the very first social function I attended. I opened up the Stonebridge Ranch News magazine and decided that I would attend every social event for the opportunity to meet my new neighbors. The first upcoming event was Coffee Talk, which was also the very first day they started it. Though a bit apprehensive about walking into a room full of strangers, I felt instantly at ease and was welcomed by the friendly Social Committee and board members that were there. At that moment I knew I was “home” living in Stonebridge Ranch.
SRCA: What qualities, would you say, make Stonebridge Ranch the premier community in the north Texas area? What makes Stonebridge stand out?
The first quality that stands out to me is the natural beauty of Stonebridge Ranch. From the meticulously manicured entrances to our community, villages and parks, to our beautiful ponds, lakes and rolling hills. I am impressed by how well the board, HOA and committees are run. There are many people who work tireless hours to help keep the standards high for the best quality of life for those living here in Stonebridge Ranch. To this day, when I drive throughout our beautiful, amazing community, I just can’t believe that I get to live HERE! F
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complIance tI ps Compliance Quiz by Nate Russell
December Compliance Quiz 1. Which of the following statements is true?
(a) Submittal is not required to extend out your pre-existing patio. (b) Submittal is required to repaint your fence the same color. (c) The Compliance Coordinators inspect about once every two weeks. (d) The Compliance Coordinators do not enjoy getting presents from homeowners.
2. What is the minimum amount of turf grass your front yard must include?
Merry Christmas, Stonebridge Ranch! Since everyone can always use a little extra shopping money this time of year, we are going to switch things up and give out Target gift cards this month. Same rules as always—the first three correct responses will win a $15 Target gift card. You can use these to buy yourself something nice, buy something nice for others, or just re-gift it at Christmas. We won’t tell anyone. All of the answers can be found in the Design Guidelines listed on the website at www.stonebridgeranch. com. Please email all answers to nrussell@ cmamanagement.com. If you get stumped or have any questions, please feel free to call or email us here at the office. We are always more than happy to help you out with any questions on interpretation of the guidelines, or just compliance questions in general. Thank you for your compliance! F Rony Peterson, Maria Ford, Nate Russell, Erica Peoples, Joyce Martin; CMA Compliance Coordinators, Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc.
(a) 25% (b) 50% (c) 75% (d) None of the above.
3. Which of the following statements is true? (a) All new fence replacements are required to be properly treated. (b) Double fencing is allowed if you back up to a greenbelt. (c) Multiple kickboards are allowed if needed. (d) Fencing may be constructed of pine. 4. At what height are you required to get an Engineer’s Stamp when building a retaining wall?
(a) 1 foot (b) 2 feet (c) 4 feet (d) All retaining walls require an Engineer’s Stamp.
5. Which of your friendly neighborhood compliance coordinators inspect the village of Wren Creek? (a) Nate Russell (b) Maria Ford (c) Rony Peterson (d) Erica Peoples
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resId ent I n terest Park of the Month: Nora Haney Park by Sherine George
had a visit from Scooby Doo and November’s playdate was a Halloween dress-up day at Wren Creek. For the playdate at Nora Haney (located on Lake Forest between Glen Oaks and Eldorado), we will be bringing soccer balls for a day of outdoor fun.
Nora Haney Park The Social Committee has developed a fun way to see and experience our community parks by creating monthly Playdates in the Park. On December 4, at 10 a.m., the playgroup will be meeting at Nora Haney Park. Each Playdate in the Park has offered a different children’s theme: September’s playdate at the Beach and Tennis Club had a musical theme, October’s playdate at Wyndsor Grove Park
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Playdates in the Park is a great way to meet new neighbors and enjoy one of the many amenities that make Stonebridge Ranch a great place to live. Join us for some family outdoor fun at 10 a.m. on the first Friday of every month! A complete list of the 12 community parks (not to be confused with the six city parks) can be found on our website, www.stonebridgeranch.com. You can find the Stonebridge Ranch Parks webpage from the Amenities drop-down menu. Here you will find pictures and Google Maps indicating the exact location of each park. F
resIdent Interest
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lIfestyle McKinney Ladies Association
Join us Monday, December 14, at Pioneer Ridge Gracious Retirement Living for the annual Ornament Exchange! This beautiful facility will host our event this year. We are excited to see independent living options in Stonebridge Ranch. They were rated the 2015 Best of Senior Living by senioradvisor.com. Pioneer Ridge is located at 7210 Linkside Point Drive at Virginia and Stonebridge Drive behind the Walgreens Pharmacy. We will enjoy yummy snacks, our ornament exchange and a great time of fellowship as we prepare for the holiday season. We will be collecting items for North Park Health and Rehab Center in McKinney in hopes of bringing a little cheer to those who can’t be at home with loved ones for the holiday. It’s never too late to become a member of MLA. You can join online or at one of our meetings. MLA offers rolling annual memberships. When you pay MLA’s $50 annual membership dues, your membership will not expire for the next 12 months. For more information about our organization, please visit www.mckinneyladies.org or email us at mckinneyladies@yahoo.com.
McKinney Area Newcomers Club If you are new to the McKinney area, or you have had a lifestyle 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. McKinney Community Band Flute Choir will be at our December meeting to entertain us with their wide-ranging repertoire. Their ensemble is composed of nine flutists, and instrumentation includes several members of the flute family. They make lovely music! Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, December 15, 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
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around the ranch
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from your neI g hbor Culinary Classics From Your Neighbor Cindy Galvan moved to Stonebridge Ranch from Frisco with her son, Alex, in 2011, when Alex started kindergarten. Prior to purchasing a home, Cindy researched Stonebridge Ranch extensively. She discovered the many reasons the community was highly recommended through her friends living in the community. Her son fell in love with the Beach Club, the Aquatic Center, the bike trails and most importantly, the various community events offered throughout the year. Alex’s favorite event is the Tree Lighting Ceremony—he enjoys every part of it. Cindy graduated from Texas Woman’s University and has been working as a law office manager/paralegal for over four years. She loves her community and is dedicated to making it a better place by dedicating her time to volunteer work. Cindy volunteers with the McKinney Police Department, Stonebridge Ranch Social Committee and also started the Stonebridge Singles Group. “Chocoflan is one of my favorite desserts. I make it every Christmas and for special occasions,” shares Cindy.
1/4 c. cajeta 3 oz. cream cheese 1 can evaporated milk 2 cans condensed milk 1 thin and deep baking pan (to bake the chocoflan) 1 large baking pan (to bake chocoflan in a water bath) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. For the flan: Add all the ingredients into a blender except for the cajeta and blend for 3 minutes. Use a paper towel to coat a baking pan with butter, making sure you get the top part of the pan as this is where the cake is going to bake. Add the cajeta to the bottom of the pan and spread. Then pour the flan mix into the pan. For the cake: Mix all the dry ingredients, then add the milk and eggs. Add the eggs one at a time and mix for at least 60 seconds every time you add an egg. Once the mix looks creamy, it’s ready to pour on top of the flan mixture. It’s okay if the cake batter mixes with the flan, it will eventually separate during the baking process. Place about 6 cups of water into the bigger baking pan and then place the smaller pan (with the cake and flan mix) inside. Bake for 1 hour or until toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool for 1 hour before cutting or transferring to another dish.
Chocoflan Ingredients for cake: 1-3/4 c. all-purpose flour 3/4 c. sugar 1/2 c. Abuelita chocolate powder 1/4 c. oil 2 eggs 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 c. 2% milk 1 tsp. butter Ingredients for flan: 3 eggs 2 tsp. vanilla
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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
”Tagalong”
move to her new home with a cozy, comfy bed, good food and little toys to play with. #1240784
Meet Tagalong, a 3-year-old, 56-pound, male Lab mix. Tagalong is quite the debonair and sweet fellow. His markings make him look like he is wearing a tuxedo. He came to the SPCA of Texas because his family developed allergies to him. Tagalong is a playful young man who loves treats and will do almost anything to earn one. At the moment, he is perfecting “sit.” He wants to “tagalong” with you to his new home. He has been neutered, microchipped and has received all of his age-appropriate vaccinations. He is waiting for just the right family. #102637
Tagalong and Fluffels are waiting for you at the SPCA of Texas’ Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney at 8411 Stacy Road. Call 214.742.SPCA (7722) or visit today. F
”Fluffels” Meet Fluffels, a loving, cuddly lady! She is a 6-year-old domestic shorthair mix. She was surrendered by her humans to the SPCA because she didn’t get along with the other animals in the home. She would prefer to go to a home where she is the only pet and can receive all of your love and attention. Fluffels has been spayed, tested for FIV/FeLV (she’s negative), microchipped and has received age-appropriate vaccinations. She’s so ready to Stonebridge Ranch News x December 2015
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landscape & grounds Master Landscape Plan: Custer Road Entrance by Sherine George The first objective of the 2015 Strategic Plan is the Master Landscape Plan (MLP), which aims to refresh the common area medians, parkways and entrances in a manner that will preserve and enhance the quality and natural beauty of Stonebridge Ranch. The plan’s first project was to renovate the Virginia Road entrance to Stonebridge Ranch, a project that reached completion in September 2015. Tom George, board member and liaison to the Landscape and Grounds (L&G) Committee, shared the second project under the Master Landscape Plan, the Custer Road entrance.
SRCA: Why was the Custer Road entrance selected as the next project under the Master Landscape Plan?
Tom George (TG): A priority for the MLP is to focus on high visibility locations—especially the major entrances to Stonebridge Ranch. Now that the Virginia Entrance Project is completed, the next highest visibility entrance (based on traffic volume) is the Custer Road entrance at Stonebridge Drive. In addition to traffic volume, a second criterion is the need for refurbishment. In particular, the planter box in the median has deteriorated to the point it has become an
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eyesore with cracked mortar in the brick wall and it is in need of serious repair.
SRCA: What is the objective of this project?
TG: The project objectives are to refresh the landscape,
landscape & grounds repair and redesign the median planter walls and entrance lighting, and upgrade the hardscape to provide a modern look to the entrance of Stonebridge Ranch.
How is the project managed?
TG: There are several components to managing this project. They include the landscape architect who designs and documents the development plan, the L&G Committee who reviews and makes recommendations to the design, CMA who oversees the daily activities and manages all administrative activities, the board that authorizes funding and oversight and finally, the construction firms doing the actual work.
SRCA: What are a few of the key steps in the project development?
TG: There are a number of important steps or milestones in this type of a project. The first step is allocating funds to the project at the board level. The second is to select the landscape architect firm. For this project, Freese Nichols Inc. was selected. The third step is to work collaboratively to develop a design and budget that meets the objectives of the L&G Committee. Once this is done, the fourth step is to develop a construction quote package that is presented to approved contractors who then provide their bid proposals for review and feedback. After negotiation and approval by the board, the fifth step is the signing of the construction contracts. At this point, the design and cost is firm and the sixth step is to present the development plan to the city for review and approval. The city is especially interested in the traffic flow plan and ensuring the safety of both the construction team and auto traffic on the site. Once the city approves the plan, the construction can begin. A final factor is the weather to ensure proper plant installation and healthy growth.
SRCA: What updates are being made?
TG: Some of the improvements are new landscaping in front of the retaining walls, remodeled planter box in the median, new Stonebridge Ranch sign in the median, new monuments for both the north and south sides of the entrance and new lighting for the median and along the retaining walls.
SRCA: What is the project schedule?
TG: Knowing the many key steps in the project, it is too early to provide a definitive schedule for this project. Ideally, the construction will begin in the spring of 2016. One factor that might delay this schedule is the TXDOT plan to expand Custer Road from four to six lanes beginning at the Stonebridge Drive intersection and south to Highway 121.
SRCA: Will the results be significant for homeowners?
TG: We strongly believe the end result will be a significant improvement to the entrance both in landscape and hardscape that will create a positive impression to motorists who enter Stonebridge Ranch from Custer Road. F
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socIal scene Coffee, Cars & Conversation
alcoholic beverages. Seating is limited to the first 20 who sign up. Click the link below for more event details and to RSVP http://whoozin.com/JT4-PDV-A7NW. With the renovations on the Community Room, space for this event is very limited and we will have a waiting list. Please be considerate to fellow residents and let us know if you are signed up and cannot attend.
17th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Can’t make it to our weekday Coffee Talk or TGIF? Join us for refreshments at our upcoming Coffee, Cars & Conversation! SB Residents Only Saturday, December 19, at 8:30 a.m. SBR Beach and Tennis Club Coffee, water and donuts will be provided. Bring your classic/fancy car to park in the circular drive! “A cup of coffee shared with a friend is happiness tasted and time well spent.”
Bingo Night It’s a great time to make new friends so please join us on Tuesday night, December 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. for an evening of Bingo and prizes in the association office Board Room located at the Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club. Light snacks and refreshments will be served and please NO
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Stonebridge Ranch Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Stonebridge Ranch Beach & Tennis Club, 6201 Virginia Parkway Thursday, December 3 • Activities will be held from 5:30-7:30 p.m. • Tree Lighting will take place at 6:30 p.m. Bring your family to this fun and festive event. Don’t forget your camera to take your child’s picture with Santa. Other activities include horse and carriage rides, a petting zoo, a toy soldier, Frosty the Snowman, storytelling, The Grinch, refreshments and a DJ playing all of your favorite Christmas music. Santa’s Mailbox…Have your child bring a letter to the Tree Lighting Ceremony for Santa to take back to the North Pole! Admission into this event is free. We ask you that you bring an unwrapped gift to be given to the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Our goal this year is to receive 200 donated and unwrapped gifts from the SRCA residents. We will also be accepting non-perishable food donations. If you cannot attend the event and would like
socIal scene to donate a gift or a canned good, the association office will be accepting the items in office Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. until December 16. F This holiday season, SRCA will be collecting new toys
Give Back
(unwrapped) for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Donations will be accepted December 1-18 at the association office, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. F
Upcoming January Events 8 11 13 16 18 22 29
Playdate in the Park Book Club Evening Bingo Coffee, Cars & Conversation Travel Club Morning Bingo Allen American Hockey
Walking Club every Monday Coffee Talk every Wednesday TGIF every Friday except January 1
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