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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS JULY 2015
20
Vol. 3, Issue 7
Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 5
26
From the President
7
by Jon Dell’Antonia
7
This Month’s Feature by Sherine George
10
In the News by Sherine George
12
Compliance Tips by Nate Russell
14
Inside the Ranch by Michael Lesku
16
Community Calendar
18
Financial Update by Michael Lesku
20
Resident Interest by Sherine George
25
Around the Ranch
26
From Your Neighbor
27 Lifestyle 28
Social Scene
SPECIAL SECTIONS 19
Bits and Pieces
24
Pet Page
31
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
cover photo Sherine George
The drought is over and summer is here The lakes are full, the pools are open, school is out and summer, with its hotter temperatures, has arrived. Stonebridge’s 27th anniversary celebration is scheduled for July 25. This is our annual Ranch day celebration. There is additional information about the event in this issue of the magazine. I hope you will make plans to attend.
May 28 Board Meeting
The board meeting was called to order at 1 p.m. All board members were present. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared. The first item of business was to ratify all decisions since the last board meeting and approve the April board minutes.
Old Business
The board discussed and approved a variance for fences for the 24 lots in the Falcon Creek subdivision that back onto an alley. Next, the board reviewed and approved the Disaster Recovery Plan which has been in the works for several months. We now have a plan in place in the event we ever have a disaster to deal with. The board then had additional discussions on conceptual plans associated with the enhancement of the Aquatics Center and the development of the vacant land adjacent to the Aquatics Center into a Civic Plaza. The board unanimously voted to continue with the design of this project. We feel it is important to update this vital amenity in Stonebridge Ranch. Nothing has been done to it since the developer originally built it and it is in need of substantial updating.
New Business
The board reviewed the bid package specifications for our common area landscape maintenance and decided to negotiate with our existing landscape vendors who are doing a great job for us. The results of the negotiations will be presented to the board at a future date for discussion and potential approval. We then reviewed and approved some minor revisions to our design guidelines The board then considered and unanimously approved a proposal from the McCaskill Design Group for the development of concept plans for the Civic Plaza and Aquatic Center improvements and the Construction Management agreement from Jackson and Associates for services for the RFQ and RFP selection services for a Construction Manager.
Executive Session
The board reviewed and approved the Collections report for delinquent accounts and heard an update on legal issues. We then discussed the renewal contract for pool operations and tabled any action awaiting some additional information.
Association Reports
For information or to place an advertisement, please contact: Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, or call 972.727.4569.
Director of Operations Lesku reviewed Strategic Plan updates and updates on the progress of the Virginia Entry Pre-construction meeting with the City of McKinney, progress on the Top Ten Meter Project, a Disaster Preparedness Plan Packet and a meeting scheduled with the Director of Parks for the City of McKinney to discuss potential cost-sharing for future trails in Stonebridge Ranch. Other items reviewed include the Financial Management Report, Balance Sheet, Variance Report, Income Statement, A/R Schedules and Investment Schedule. Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in committee minutes. Watch the Stonebridge website and the monthly calendar in the magazine for more planned events. The meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch News x July 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 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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thIs month’ s feature Stonebridge Ranch Day by Sherine George Stonebridge Ranch Day is one of the most anticipated events of the year. This year, Stonebridge Ranch is celebrating its 27th anniversary on July 25. Given that Mayor Loughmiller proclaimed July 25 as the official Stonebridge Ranch Day, Stonebridge Ranch has continued the tradition of celebrating the honor every year since its silver anniversary. Over 1500 people are expected to attend this year’s festivities. “We really want people to come out and connect with one another while celebrating their community. Stonebridge Ranch is a community like no other, so people really expect to have a good time. I work with the Social Committee to make sure that there is always something enjoyable for
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thIs month’ s feature residents throughout the day. And the fun doesn’t end on the 25th—we are also having the Stonebridge Ranch Day Color Run on July 26,” shares David Wiest, Lifestyle Director.
Classic Car Show (9 a.m. to noon)
Over 100 classic cars are expected to be on display that morning, ranging from ’57 Chevys to custom trucks from the 40s and 50s. Awards are presented for different divisions: Best In Show Car, Best In Show Truck, People’s Choice Award and Sponsor’s Choice Award. “People really look forward to this show and everyone is curious to see who wins. The car show always brings out residents of all ages. It’s a great way for a family to spend a Saturday morning and see the history of automobiles first-hand,” says Wiest.
Food Trucks (1 to 9:30 p.m.)
If you are planning on staying for all the activities scheduled for the day, you will need plenty of fuel to keep you going. Purchase your meal from one of our many delicious food vendors: Cajun Tailgators, Brothers Barbeque, Snowball Express and more. Food trucks will be parked in front of the Beach Club entrance for your convenience.
Beach Club Pool Party (1 to 5 p.m.)
What better way to celebrate Stonebridge Ranch than a party at the Beach Club? A resident favorite, the Beach Club Pool Party will be a fun-filled afternoon with DJ Uptown Sound livening up the crowd with the latest in pop music. Come on by for some fun games (Sky High and Trivia) and prizes for the winners.
Volleyball Tournament (2 to 5 p.m.)
Twelve co-ed teams (consisting of 4 players each) are welcome to play in the tournament at the Beach Club. Each team must have at least one male and one female member. Prizes will be awarded to winning teams. Please sign up by visiting http://tinyurl.com/SBVolleyball2015. Please provide your team name and the name of each player on your team.
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thIs month’ s feature Kid Zone (7 to 9:30 p.m.)
There is no shortage of fun for kids on Stonebridge Ranch Day. Rock climbing, water slides, obstacle courses and bounce houses are a few of the activities available at the Kid Zone. Children of all ages are invited to partake in activities.
Maylee Thomas Band Concert (7:30 to 9:30 p.m.)
Although the Maylee Thomas Band is a very well known local group, it is the first time the band will be performing for Stonebridge Ranch. We are proud to welcome the lively tunes of this band on the McKinney sound stage for an invigorating evening concert.
Fireworks Show (9:45 p.m.)
Gather around Lake Stonebridge and wrap up your night with our annual Fireworks Show.
Stonebridge Ranch Day Color Run and Beach Party (Sunday, July 26 at 9:30 a.m.)
After a colorful run around Stonebridge Ranch, all runners are invited to hose off and take a dip in the pool at the Beach Club for an afternoon Beach Party. F
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In the news Stonebridge Ranch Hosts City Council Candidate Forums by Sherine George
Stonebridge Ranch hosted its first ever City Council Candidate Forums on Thursday, April 23 and Tuesday, April 28. Candidates were given an opportunity to introduce themselves, provide their short- and long-term
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goals for the city and speak on any municipal issues that the candidates felt needed to be addressed. All candidates running for city council were invited for a two-hour meeting with fellow contenders at the Crosspoint Church in McKinney. Each candidate was allotted up to two
minutes for an opening statement. Questions were prepared by the association from homeowner submittals. The forum was moderated by Councilman Ray Ricchi who was presented with a sealed
In the news envelope containing the questions for the night. Councilman Ricchi and the candidates had no prior knowledge of the type of questions that candidates would be asked until the night of the forum. Each candidate drew a number from a bowl, designating the order in which they would respond to each question. Ricchi then provided each candidate an allotted two minutes to respond. If a candidate were to mention another candidate in their response, then that candidate was allotted up to one minute to provide comments. Questions ranged from comparing the city’s tax rate to its sister cities to allowing package liquor stores to open in McKinney to the pros and cons of enacting a golf cart city ordinance. The first of two candidate forums was held with District 4 candidates, which includes most of Stonebridge Ranch. The following candidates participated in the District 4 Candidate Forum: Chuck Branch, Pablo Ruiz, Steven Spainhouer, Robert DeMarco, Angie Bado and Ty Lake. The second forum was held with six District 2 and at-large candidates: Matt Hilton, Bill Campbell, Jeremiah Hammer, Tracy Rath, Rodrick Robinson and Peter Bailey. The At-large District includes the entire City of McKinney while District 2 includes portions of Stonebridge Ranch (the Cascades and Aspendale Villages). City council elections were held on May 9, with early voting beginning on April 27. Rainey Rogers won the District 2 seat with 657 votes. A run off election is scheduled for the District 4 council seat. The run-off election only includes the candidates who received the top two vote totals. Voters will elect either Chuck Branch or Pablo Ruiz on June 13, with early voting June 1-9. There will also be a run-off election for the at-large city council seat, and voters will
elect either Tracy Rath or Bill Campbell to the city council. Stonebridge Ranch Board President Jon Dell’Antonia explains why the association felt these forums were critical for Stonebridge Ranch homeowners, “Elections have consequences, particularly local elections. These are the people who will make decisions about our community, city, quality of life, taxes and expenditures. They have the potential to impact our daily lives more than any other elected representatives, and you can contact them easily because they live in McKinney. We felt it was important to sponsor these forums to give our homeowners a way to hear from the candidates. Typically, voter turnout is very low in local elections and we were trying to improve the turnout from Stonebridge residents this year.” F
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complIance tI p s Building Your Backyard Oasis by Nate Russell Happy Independence Day Stonebridge Ranch! Nothing says July like swimming in a pool. While the Beach Club is a special experience here at Stonebridge, there is nothing like relaxing in your own backyard pool. If you are looking to build a pool this summer, please reference our website for the guidelines and an application. Some guideline highlights for pools are: • Pools must be set back at least five feet from the property lines. • Pool equipment must be fully screened with a
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complIance tI ps six-foot privacy fence. The pool equipment must also be located adjacent to your house. • Above ground pools are not allowed. If you need a cool, shady place to sit in your backyard, an arbor or patio cover is a popular choice for many homeowners in Stonebridge. If you are thinking of building either, just remember to once again check the website for guidelines. Some key points to consider when building an arbor are: • Arbor must be set back five feet from property lines. If your property borders common area or a golf course, it should be set back ten feet from the rear property line. • Arbors must be constructed of either cedar or redwood. • The overall height should not be taller than twelve feet. • They can only be placed in the side or rear yard. Patio covers are another great option to add a shady spot in your yard. A few reminders from the guidelines are: • Required to be set back five feet from property lines. If your property borders common area or a golf course it should be set back ten feet from the rear property line. • Must be constructed of either cedar or redwood and shingled to match the house.
• All materials used must match or complement the house. • The pitch of the roof is approved by the Modifications Committee on a case-by-case basis. With all three options, an application submittal is required before you begin the project. If you have any questions or concerns about your specific situation, please feel free to swing by the office or give us a call. We would love to sit down with you and go over the project. Last month, we had another Compliance Quiz with lots of responses. Congratulations to our winners! If you were stumped by the quiz, I have posted the answers below. Thank you for your compliance! F Rony Peterson, Maria Ford, Nate Russell, Erica Peoples, Joyce Martin; CMA Compliance Coordinators, Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc.
Compliance Quiz Answers 1. Exterior Lighting 2. Arbor/Pergola 3. Sign 4. Playhouse 5. Satellite Dish
Stonebridge Ranch News x July 2015
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InsId e the ranch Planning and Executing the Annual Event Calendar by Sherine George From swim parties to some friendly competition at triathlons, there is something for everyone at Stonebridge Ranch. In fact, the association scheduled over 125 events in 2015. Resident attendance at these events can range from 10 to 1,000 homeowners depending on the type of event. It is common for residents to associate their value of living in a master-planned community to the frequency and quality of their community’s social calendar. The Social Committee and Lifestyle Director, Dave Wiest, work together behind the scenes to plan and execute a successful social event calendar for Stonebridge Ranch. The task of planning the annual event social calendar falls on the Social Committee. “The Social Committee starts their planning in May of each year for activities that will happen in the following calendar year. This is to ensure that the activities approved by the committee are lined up and viewed for funding in the overall Stonebridge Ranch Association budgetary process,” explains board member and liaison to the Social Committee, Michael Yon. The committee is made up of homeowners, like yourselves, who volunteer their time to help plan the association’s social events. The committee first analyzes the
prior year’s event calendar and makes recommendations on which events to keep, which events to cancel and which new events to add. The committee will then evaluate the components of each event and look for opportunities to improve the overall quality of the event, as well as any
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efficiency that could reduce the costs associated with holding the event. The committee then estimates the costs associated with each event and submits those costs to the association’s board of directors for approval. The annual budget allocated to the social event calendar is $66,750 or just under one tenth of one percent of the association’s annual budget. “The Social Committee is a huge part of the planning process. Though the committee has tremendous help from our association management team in arranging all the documents, computing cost figures and completing all the paper work, it is the committee that reviews each event, decides its importance and votes on the calendar of events for the coming year. The Lifestyle Director, David Wiest, is the behind-the-scenes person who really makes it all happen,” adds Michael Yon. David Wiest is responsible for the execution of the events planned by the Social Committee. “David works hard behind the scenes to ensure the events go off without a hitch. David contracts the services of the vendors that will be supplying the product and/or services for the event, promotes the event through the association’s magazine and website and schedules the staff/volunteers required to work on the day of the event. The time put in by David Wiest and the Social Committee to plan and execute the events is a big reason why resident satisfaction with the association’s social calendar is so high.” Yon also notes that, from time to time, residents are
InsIde the ranch asked to volunteer for the larger events (i.e. Meet the Easter Bunny, Stonebridge Ranch Day, Halloween and Christmas Tree Lighting). However, for the most part, most events are planned and executed by the Social Committee and the SRCA management team. If volunteer participation is deemed necessary, residents will be notified via e-news, the website or the magazine.
Yon also emphasizes the importance of a social element to the Stonebridge Ranch community, “The Social Committee is tasked by the association with offering events for our residents that provide activities allowing them to interact with each other, have fun and continue the wonderful feeling that brought us all to Stonebridge Ranch. Activities are planned for kids, adults and families throughout the year. Hopefully our residents will come out, meet new friends, see neighbors and enjoy the Stonebridge Ranch lifestyle.� F
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July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 Coffee Talk 8:30 a.m. (CR) July 3 Concert on the cirlce 8:30 p.m. (BTC) July 4 July 4th at the beach club 11 a.m. (BTC) July 10, 17, 24 & 31 TGIF Coffee 1 p.m. (cr) July 13 Beach Club Family Pool Party 6 p.m. (BTC) July 21 travel club 9 a.m. (Cr) July 25 Stonebridge Ranch Day 9 a.m. (BTC) July 26 Stonebridge Ranch Day Color run 9:30 a.m. (BTC)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
9-10 am—Stroller Stride
8 am-2 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.
MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR) Amenities Meeting, 7 p.m. (BR)
9-10 am—Stroller Stride
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ
Beach Club Family Pool Party, 6 p.m. (BTC)
ARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Modifications Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (BR)
Social Committe 9 a.m. (BR)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Stride
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ
MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
ARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)
Stonebridge Ranch Day Color Run, 9:30 a.m. (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
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Modifications Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (BR) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Stride
8 am-2 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
9-10 am—Stroller Stride
8 am-2 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ
a.m. (CR)
es (BTC)
nnis Classes, my (BTC)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
a.m. (CR)
es (BTC)
nnis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
ee Meeting,
es (BTC)
nnis Classes, my (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
es (BTC)
Concert on the Circle, 8:30 p.m. (BTC)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
4th of July at the Beach Club, 11 a.m. (BTC)
Stonebridge Ranch Day, 9 a.m. (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
nnis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
es (BTC)
Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
nnis Classes, my (BTC)
Stonebridge Ranch HOA News News x July x 2015 September 2013
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fInancIal update Inside the Ranch Budget by Michael Lesku This month I will be providing a breakdown of the fourth largest association expense category, the Operating Reserve. The purpose of the Operating Reserve is to maintain the association’s commonly owned amenities without the need for a special assessment. The Operating Reserve includes funds allocated for the repair and replacement of the association’s existing commonly owned amenities. The Operating Reserve is separate from the association’s Annual Operating Budget, which is used to fund the day-to-day operational needs of the association. The value of the association’s commonly owned amenities totals $7.7M. These amenities may vary in size and use, but all serve collectively to enhance the owner experience and property values within Stonebridge Ranch. Some of the more notable amenities include the Beach Club, Aquatics Center, Nora Haney Park, tennis courts, playgrounds, parks, 519 acres of common area landscape and 21 miles of fencing and stone monuments at all of the community and village entrances. Contributions to the Operating Reserve are made annually as part of the annual budgeting process. The funds are then invested by a third party investment firm contracted by the association. The firm invests the
Operating Reserve Facts • The value of the association’s commonly owned amenities totals $7.7M. • The value of the Operating Reserve as of April 30 is $5.7M. • Operating Reserve funds are invested by a third party investment firm.
Operating Reserve funds as outlined in the boardapproved Investment Policy. The Investment Policy emphasizes minimizing risk while maximizing returns and providing liquidity. The value of the Operating Reserve as of April 30 is $5.7M. Operating Reserve projects are determined and prioritized through an on-site inspection of the common area amenities conducted by a certified Reserve Study Engineer. The engineer inspects all of the association’s amenities and makes a determination as to how soon the amenity will need to be repaired or replaced. The engineer ’s evaluations are then incorporated into a 30-year repair and replacement schedule that is consistent with the Operating Reserve’s fund balance levels and meets the association’s obligations to maintain the common area amenities without the need for a special assessment. I hope you have found this article regarding Operating Reserves useful. Feel free to call or email me with your questions or comments. F
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bIts & pIe ces 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.
Golf Cart Regulations The McKinney Police Department reminds all citizens of these important golf cart safety guidelines: • Operator must be a licensed driver. • Golf carts may not be driven on sidewalks or hike/ bike trials.
• Follow the manufacturer’s safety passenger guidelines. Anyone who observes illegal operation of golf carts is encouraged to contact the police non-emergency line at 972.547.2700. If you have a complaint area to report that is not an in-progress violation, contact the Traffic Unit at 972.547.2835. F
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resId ent I n terest Stonebridge Ranch Board of Directors and Committees Sherine George To honor the dedication and hard work of our board and committee members, a Committee Appreciation Party was held in May at the Stonebridge Ranch Country Club. The event gave volunteers an opportunity to meet likeminded individuals on other committees with an undeniable enthusiasm to serve the community.
The seven board members and 40 plus committee members are the backbone for the operations and governance of the community. Countless volunteer hours are spent in efforts to assure that Stonebridge Ranch remains the premier community of choice in North Texas. These volunteers work hard to preserve and enhance the value of your home and neighborhood. “Around 50 guests showed up for the party. The live music by Neil Davies was perfect for the gathering and the country club did a great job of really setting a nice scene. The committee members enjoyed themselves. They put in so many hours for their community—it’s great to see them unwind and treat themselves for a change. They really deserve it,” said David
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resIdent Interest Wiest, Lifestyle Director for SRCA, who was pivotal in the planning and success of the event. As the second half of the year draws near, there will be an increasing need for volunteers. In order for a community the size of Stonebridge Ranch to be successful, it requires the appropriate infrastructure. By volunteering to serve on one of the association’s committees you can create a positive impact on your community. Each of our seven committees can have up to seven committee members. Currently there are openings on the Modifications Committee and the Communications Committee. Master Architectural Review Committee—Mandatory committee appointed by the board of directors as
required by the governing documents; responsible for review and approval of new construction on previously unimproved lots. Modifications Committee—Mandatory committee required by governing documents. Appointed by the board of directors, this committee is responsible for the review and approval of any exterior modification of existing homes and properties. Finance Committee—Assists the board of directors with the development of the association’s budget, assists with the monitoring of association expenses, along with evaluating the variety of investment options available to the association. F
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resId ent I n terest Social Committee— This committee advises and assists the board of directors in creating activities and events that foster a sense of community. These activities and events include both traditional SRCA events along with the creation of new events. Landscape and Grounds Committee—This committee advises and assists the board of directors in developing and carrying out plans for the maintenance and beautification of the 509 acres of community common areas. Communications Committee—This committee advises and assists the board of directors in the development and
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maintenance of the SRCA newsletter and the website. Amenities Committee—This committee advises and assists the board of directors in the oversight of the association’s amenities which include pools, tennis courts, association lakes and parks. F
”Carbon”
Carbon is a 55-lb. Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen/mixed breed dog that was surrendered to a shelter when her owner could no longer care for her. Unfortunately, Carbon never received the socialization dogs need and is fearful of just about everything. She has come a long way since being in LHS foster care, but still has a long way to go. She will need an owner that will be very patient with her as she learns what it’s like to be a normal doggie. Carbon will probably do better with a female and in a home where the children are older and more considerate of her shyness. She will also need another doggie in the house to help her learn how to be a house dog. Carbon is 2-1/2 years old, housetrained and gets along well with other dogs. She has been spayed, is heartworm negative and up-to-date on all vaccines. Please apply online at: http://legacyhumanesociety.org/ adoptfoster/adoption-application/ F
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around the ranch
Stonebridge Ranch News x July 2015
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from your neI g hbor Culinary Classics From Your Neighbor Lynn Melder and her husband, Jerry Melder, have lived in Fieldstone Place since August 2003. They have two grown daughters, one in Plano and one in Jacksonville, Florida, along with their five grandchildren. Prior to retiring in 2001, both Lynn and her husband were educators: Jerry was an elementary principal, while Lynn worked as a second grade teacher and then a high school librarian. Lynn was gracious enough to share one of her family recipes with us. “The Strawberry Sugarplums recipe is one I received from my sister-in-law and is a holiday tradition in our family,” Lynn says. ”They actually look like strawberries!
Strawberry Sugar Plums
Serving size: 45 Preparation time: 30 minutes 1/2 c. butter 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1 c. sugar 8 oz. chopped dates 1/2 tsp. salt 1 c. chopped pecans 1 tsp. vanilla 2-1/2 c. Rice Krispies Red granulated sugar Green tube icing In large pan melt butter. When partially melted, add eggs and sugar and mix. Mix in dates and cook until thick, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add salt, pecans, vanilla and Rice Krispies. Mix well. When cool enough to handle, shape into strawberry shapes. Roll in red sugar and add a green frosting stem. 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? Is 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 our upcoming issue. F
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lIfestyle Holiday Boutique 2015 Attention, arts and crafts vendors! The 15th Annual Holiday Boutique Arts and Crafts Show will be held Saturday, November 7, and the boutique committee at St. Gabriel’s Church has already begun preparations. We are currently accepting applications for vendors. Only handcrafted and home-originated items made by the exhibitor will be accepted. Applications and guidelines are available online at stgabriel.org/holidayboutique or email holidayboutique@stgabriel.org or leave a voice mail message at 972.542.7170x403. Mark your calendars now and invite your family and friends to come enjoy a day of shopping, lunch, visiting our bake sale and vendor raffle.
McKinney Ladies Association The McKinney Ladies Association presented three $2,500 scholarships to children of McKinney first responders on June 21, at the benefit dinner for the McKinney Public Safety Children’s Scholarship Foundation. MLA has pledged to donate $50,000 in scholarships over a 10-year period to the children of McKinney’s first responders. These funds come from the proceeds of our Spring and Fall Yard Sale at Stonebridge Methodist Church. We had a great day for the May 2015 yard sale and are looking forward to the fall sale scheduled for Saturday, October 3. If you would like to help us support this worthwhile foundation, become a vendor at our next yard sale. Contact Connie Hollstein at cjhollstein@aol.com to secure your space or for additional information.
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 This month, our speaker will be Jim Smith representing Clothe A Child. Clothe A Child seeks to address the clothing needs of financially underprivileged children through partnerships with school districts, churches and businesses. Kohl’s has partnered to serve those clothing needs. Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, July 21, 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 July 2015
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socIal scene Summer Camps 2015
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $150 Date: July 27-30 Tennis Camp Dates: Week 4—June 29-July 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.selecttennisacademy.com 1/2-hour before class time. A 10% discount will be given to all students signing up for multiple weeks who pay by check. It is the parent’s responsibility to take off the 10% prior to sending the check. Discount is not given when paying by credit card. Registration can also be done online at www. selecttennisacademy.com or mail to Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, 6201 Virginia Parkway, McKinney, TX, 75071, attn.: Dave Wiest.
10 & Under
Concert on the Circle
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 to 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 to 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 to 11 a.m.—Drills & Fitness 12 to 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 6-11 and includes tennis, swimming, arts and crafts and lunch.
2 8 www.stonebridgeranch.com
To kick off our 4th of July weekend, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Social Committee has planned a new event on July 3, from 8:30-10:30 p.m,. in the circular drive located at the Beach Club. Grab your folding chairs or a blanket, bring a picnic basket or a bucket of chicken, and join us at the Beach and Tennis Club located at 6201 Virginia Pkwy. for an evening of music with the Red River Surfers. The Red River Surfers play a variety of music from country to today’s top hits so it should be a great time. Pack your favorite
socIal scene beverage; bring your family or grab a neighbor, a group of friends, your spouse, a date or come by yourself. Glass containers are prohibited, so be sure to purchase aluminum or plastic containers. The Beach and Tennis Club is a smoke-free facility. You can visit the Red River Surfers on Facebook. Do not forget your folding chair since no seating is available in the circular drive.
4th of July at the Beach Club Celebrate America! Bring the family and create special memories on the 4th of July at the Beach Club. It is a day full of fun, games and music. Events begin at 11 a.m., and will include hula-hoop contests, tug- of-war, bouncy ball races and a variety of other activities. Our annual Sand Castle Building Contest will be held from 2-3 p.m. Teams can be composed of up to six members, children and or adults. Prizes will be awarded to the first place team in each of the following categories: most patriotic, best animal or reptile and the most creative. Remember to not start building your castle until 2 p.m.
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socIal scene Family Beach Party
Family Beach Party is a great way to spend a Monday night, so don’t miss out. On July 13, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., a family beach party will be held at the Beach and Tennis Club with musical guest Southern Variety. Space is limited to the first 500 residents and guests. Hot dogs will be served until supplies run out (one per person) so if you have a big appetite, pack a picnic basket. This is a swimming event and children under 12 must be accompanied by and adult. Valid Stonebridge ID or other form of ID with current Stonebridge Ranch address is required. Coolers are permitted, but no glass containers. There is a $5 nonresident guest fee.
Coffee Talk Coffee Talk: Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m.
TGIF Coffee: Fridays, 1 p.m. Community Room
All Stonebridge Ranch residents are welcome! New residents, find answers to your questions. Visit with Stonebridge committee and board members. We talk about what’s going on in Stonebridge and McKinney. Casual conversation for one- to one-and-one-half hours. Coffee and tea provided. See you there soon!
3 0 www.stonebridgeranch.com
socIal scene Stonebridge Ranch Day Schedule of Events Saturday, July 25
9 a.m.-noon—Classic Car Show 1-9:30 p.m.—Food Trucks 1-5 p.m.—Beach Club Pool Party 2-5 p.m.—Volleyball Tournament 7-9:30 p.m. —Kid’s Zone 7:30-9:30 p.m.—Maylee Thomas Band Concert 9:45 p.m.—Fireworks Show
Sunday, July 26
9:30 a.m.—Stonebridge Ranch Day Color Run & Beach Party (Play Tri)
Color Run
Come join us on July 26, at 9:30 a.m., for a family fun COLOR RUN at the Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club. This event is going to be a blast and is open to all members of your family, even the little ones. Up to three children under 12 are free with a paid adult registration. After running or walking through our beautiful scenic course, you are invited to the Stonebridge Ranch Beach Pool for a post race BEACH PARTY! Entry to the pool is free for all those that are registered for the race. For more information about this run please visit www. playtri.com/sbrcolor or email info@playtri.com with any questions you may have. F
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Upcoming August Events
Kid’s Splash Hop at the Aquatic Center Beach Club Family Pool Party Travel Club
Coffee Talk every Wednesday TGIF every Friday Stonebridge Ranch News x July 2015
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