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STONEBRIDGE RANCH HOA NEWS JUNE 2013
Vol. 1, Issue 2
Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 5
From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia
8
This Month’s Feature by Tricia Scruggs
10
In the News by Tricia Scruggs
16
Community Calendar
18
Landscape & Garden by Shannon Sheriff
19
Financial Update by Michael Lesku
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Your Neighbor by Tricia Scruggs
21 www.stonebridgeranch.com by Lisa Pogacnik 22
Social Scene
25 Lifestyle 26
Compliance Tips
SPECIAL SECTIONS 11
Pet Page
12
Bits and Pieces
14
Pet Health by Dr. Ed Mapes
28
Health & Wellness by Janet Randall
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Around McKinney
Stonebridge Ranch HOA News © 2013 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.moonlightgraphicsonline.com.
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from the presIdent STONEBRIDGE RANCH HOA NEWS
publisher/editor Barbara Peavy
office administrator Carrie McCormick
advertising sales Sue Hardesty
production assistant Maggie Tindall
contributing writers Jon Dell’Antonia Michael Lesku Dr. Ed Mapes Lisa Pogacnik Janet Randall Tricia Scruggs Shannon Sheriff
cover photo Gwen Guess Photography
Summer will be here before we know it Summer will soon be here and our two great pools will be full of residents enjoying them. The Aquatic Center and Beach Club have been open on weekends since May 4, and starting May 25 will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. six days a week. Speaking of water, the North Texas Municipal Water District recently voted to implement stage-3 water restrictions for the municipalities it services, which includes McKinney, effective June 1. In addition, the City of McKinney is also considering, as part of the stage-3 restrictions, the removal of the exemption for ET based irrigation systems and the 30-day establishment exemption for the installation of new plant material. If implemented, the maximum water days for all of the common area landscape would be once per week. On another note, the community of Stonebridge Ranch will be celebrating our 25th anniversary with a weekend of festivities July 26-28.
April 25, 2013 Board Meeting
The board meeting of April 25 was called to order at 1 p.m. It began with a “Homeowner Open Forum.” Several homeowners from Fountainview voiced concerns regarding compliance violations in their village. While this report is relatively short, the meeting was lengthy as there was considerable discussion on many of the items on the agenda.
Old Business
CMA President and CEO Judi Phares gave the board an update on the legislative issues concerning homeowner associations that are under consideration in the current legislative session in Austin.
New Business
The board discussed and approved a request by Smiles Charity to use Stonebridge Lake to launch a barge as the platform for a fireworks display on May 26, 2013. It is likely the lake will be used for future fireworks displays. The board also approved the schedule and budget for the 25th anniversary celebration scheduled for July 26-28; and discussed and approved the 2013 resident survey. The board then reviewed the current enforcement and fining policy and made no changes. We also reviewed the Modification Committee organizational structure and made some changes to the guidelines for chairperson and committee member terms. Association Manager Mike Lesku presented a recap of the voting results of the annual meeting, and the success of on-line voting. We will offer on-line voting again next year. The board then reviewed and discussed the results of an inspection of the irrigation systems used in all of our common areas.
Executive Session
For information or to place an advertisement, please contact: Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, call 972.727.4569 or email sue@allenimage.com.
The board then met in executive session and reviewed and approved the collections committee report, violations report and the landscape enhancements report. The board also approved a contract for electric service with Reliant Energy. The board then heard an appeal by a homeowner concerning a modification violation. The meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x June 2013
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Stonebridge Ranch Community Association 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—Association Manager Shannon Sheriff—Assistant Manager Candace Rickman—Receptionist Denise Spain—Senior Compliance Coordinator Courtney Birmingham—Compliance Coordinator Rony Peterson—Compliance Coordinator Joyce Martin—M.A.R.C. Compliance Coordinator Lisa Pogacnik—Web Administrator Michael Cawley—Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Torres—Maintenance Assistant David Wiest—Tennis & Recreation Director Lynette Rowell—Administrative Assistant
Board of Directors Jon C. Dell’Antonia—President Ron Ferris—Vice-President Lars Rosene—Secretary Richard MacFee—Treasurer Tom George—Director Michael Yon—Director Bill Campbell—Director Stonebridge Ranch Homeowners Association 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 HOA and its members. Stonebridge Ranch HOA News is published for the residents of Stonebridge Ranch for informational purposes only. The Stonebridge Ranch HOA 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: Then and now by Tricia Scruggs
Imagine Stonebridge Ranch’s rolling landscape, winding paths and family-filled homes stretching west from Lake Forest beyond the busyness of Custer to Coit Road. That’s just a snapshot of what could have been. “Actually, the concept was for Stonebridge to be twice its current size,” said Association Manager Mike Lesku, Those plans were made possible by the acquisition and later development of the former Flying M Ranch, a 1,300plus acre tract of land that once served as a private retreat for a successful Dallas businessman. In those days, wild game was common on the ranch and an airstrip sat in the location that is now known as Isleworth. As developers moved forward with carefully laid plans, the community evolved. Some western parcels were sold and a revised blueprint led the way for today’s Stonebridge Ranch. Custer Road now binds the community to the west, U.S. Highway 380 to the North, and to the east, Lake Forest, between Virginia and Eldorado parkways. According to a 1989 homebuyer ’s guide, new construction
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costs ranged from $80,000 to $1 million. Quail Creek, Spring Hill, Briar Ridge, Summer Point, Hills Creek and Wellington Point were among the first villages in Stonebridge. Homeowners then knew a much different community. There once was an equestrian center where residents could board and train their horses. Those who did not have their own horse could rent one or take riding lessons for $15 an hour. Community assessments were set at the rate of “12 cents per $100 of assessed value.” A homeowner whose property was valued at $100,000 paid $120 per year, while $240 was the rate for a $200,000 home. In 1992, assessments were modified to a flat rate with the exception of homes built prior to that year in a handful of villages. Homesteaders, as many of Stonebridge’s earliest residents are fondly called, often share tales of journeying to buy groceries before the Albertson’s opened at Virginia Parkway and Stonebridge Drive. They recall when Eldorado Parkway was a two-lane road, void of stoplights
thIs month’ s feature
and dead-ending at Ridge Road, and when McKinney’s population was around 30,000 people, lower than today’s Stonebridge Ranch. For Diane Weynand and her husband, Rupert, there is no place like home in Stonebridge Ranch. The couple visited the area during its infancy and fell in love with the patio-style home concept in Summer Point.
“We drove up from Plano with friends of ours who lived in Richardson,” she explained. “There was a balloon launch around dawn and there were fireworks. It was amazing. We just kept coming back and watching it grow.” Twelve years later, when they were ready to downsize, the Weynands moved to Summer Point. Often they would enjoy the beach club with their grandchildren from Houston and recently fished at Nora Haney Park with their grandchildren who visited from Colorado. “The first thing we did when we moved here was buy bicycles,” Diane recalled. “We love the lifestyle out here, the amenities are wonderful. We go to Evening on the Veranda. We love those… We just knew this is where we wanted to be.” This article is the first in a two-part series titled Stonebridge Ranch: Then and Now. v Tricia Scruggs is a freelance writer from Stonebridge.
Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x June 2013
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In the news
Silver anniversary just around the corner by Tricia Scruggs
As planners finalize details of Stonebridge Ranch’s 25th anniversary festivities, one thing is for sure: there will be no shortage of activities for residents of all ages. Celebration events kick off Friday, July 26, with golf and putting competitions and wrap up the afternoon of Sunday, July 28, with closing ceremonies, including an awards presentation for participants in the weekend’s many scheduled tournaments, shows and races. Also on the first day’s itinerary will be a 1988 theme party. The evening will be capped by the mayor ’s declaration of July 26 as “Stonebridge Ranch Day.” A time capsule will then be buried onsite, filled with items from local schools, such as yearbooks, a Stonebridge Ranch flag and a cell phone. “To have a master-planned community celebrate a 25th anniversary is unique,” said Community Association Manager Mike Lesku. “To be part of something that’s so uncommon within our industry is important and it’s pretty special.” On Saturday, the Sunrise Cruisers Car Club lead the day’s activities. According to its website, the group meets weekly and has almost 300 members who “support each
other with tips, knowledge and shop talk” about classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. Club members who are also Stonebridge Ranch residents, Duane and Carolyn Archer, are looking forward to the event and plan to display their two-tone, 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme. It has been in the family for more than 17 years and was passed down by Duane’s mother. “My wife says it’s turquoise and I say it’s blue, so it’s in between,” he said with a laugh. “We’re just a bunch a people who get together every week for breakfast and then we go on little trips. In our club anything goes, any kind of car. It doesn’t have to be old, it can be new, and it can be a motorcycle. It can be any kind of vehicle that you can imagine. Some of them have been restored and people have put $40-60,000 into these cars. So, they’re really spectacular works of art.” Also on Saturday, Kids Zone is set to open at 9 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. Tentative plans for this special section include setting up several bounce houses, carnivalstyle games, trains, a dunk booth, a 24-foot rock climbing wall and joust games. Later in the morning, Stonebridge residents will get the chance to race 2,500 floating rubber ducks. A volleyball tournament is set for the afternoon, followed by a 1980’s themed beach club party with a DJ. A longest drive contest is also scheduled. The last event of the day will be a highly anticipated fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. Several food trucks are scheduled to park and provide a variety of food items for purchase throughout the day. Sunday features a 2.5 mile fun run before the closing ceremonies music at the Beach Club. Look for a complete schedule of events in the July issue of HOA News. v Tricia Scruggs is a freelance writer from Stonebridge.
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“Goldie”
Goldie is a puppy brought into the CCHS adoption program along with his five brothers and one sister. He will probably be around 6070 pounds when full grown. He was an outside dog until he came into the program. Now he is inside and does well mingling with the other animals in the house. He is nervous around new people but his personality shines with those he gets to know. He loves cuddling on the couch and playing with toys.
Goldie is looking for his forever family Goldie needs to go to a home that has the time and patience to teach him to be the best puppy he can be. Being around people and being inside is all new to him, but he will warm up rather quickly. His adoption fee includes vaccines, microchip, deworming, neutering and first month of heartworm prevention. If you would like to make this handsome guy part of your home, please fill out an application today at http:// www.collincountyhumanesociety.org/ adoption-application.html. Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x June 2013
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bIt s & pI eces Pool Access Pool season is officially in full swing! All residents wishing to use the swimming facilities must present their drivers’ licenses with either their Stonebridge Ranch address listed or a Stonebridge Ranch picture ID. Minors, ages 3 and older, must show their Stonebridge Ranch picture ID’s. The new policy for minors is being enforced. For your child to receive their picture ID, the association will need to see a birth certificate, adoption certificate or passport. The photo ID calendar and forms can be accessed on stonebridgeranch.com. Just check the home page for the appropriate links. Also, your account must be current. Residents with an outstanding account balance will be denied access. Having the proper identification and keeping your account in good standing will ensure hassle free access to the pools. v
Are you prepared for a Tornado? Texas has more tornadoes than any other state. Peak tornado season for North Texas is April and May, although there are still possibilities throughout summer and fall. Tornadoes can strike quickly and with little or no warning. We have outlined what you should do before, during and after a tornado.
Before a tornado Listen and watch for information for Collin County and the City of McKinney and have your NOAA Weather Radio on or available. Look for the following signs: • Dark, often greenish, sky • Large hail • A large, dark, low-lying cloud, including rotation in the sky • A loud roar similar to a freight train
During a tornado * Take shelter immediately. An underground shelter, basement or safe room is best but if there is no basement, go to an interior, windowless room on the lowest level. Put as many walls as possible between you and the outside.
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bIts & pIe ces • If you are in a vehicle, trailer or mobile home, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a nearby building or storm shelter. • If you are caught outside with no shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with
your hands. Be aware of the potential for flooding. Do NOT get under an overpass or bridge. Never try to outrun a tornado in an urban, congested area like the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Instead, leave the vehicle immediately for safe shelter.
After a tornado: • Continue listening to NOAA Weather Radio or local news coverage. • Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and sturdy shoes when examining your home for damage. • Watch for fallen power lines and broken gas lines and report them to your utility company. • Take pictures of damage to the building and contents for insurance claims. • Clean up medications, bleach or other flammable liquids that may become a fire hazard. Families should have a communication plan in case family members are not together when a tornado strikes. For more information on a communication plan and emergency kits, visit www.ready.gov/tornadoes. v
Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x June 2013
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pet health Canine Influenza: A new kid on the block by Dr. Ed Mapes
In recent years, an illness known as canine flu or canine influenza has emerged and spread to our area. Caused by a novel influenza A virus, this flu is a highly contagious disease. Since first being diagnosed in Florida in 2004 among racing greyhounds, infections have spread rapidly and are now recognized in at least 30 states. The organism began as the equine influenza virus, but has adapted through mutation to become infective to dogs. Because this organism is so recently developed, dogs have no natural or acquired immunity against it and are extremely susceptible to infection. The disease is therefore very contagious between dogs, but does not cause disease in horses or humans. Canine influenza is spread by way of aerosolized respiratory secretions from the coughing and sneezing of infected dogs, contaminated objects (kennel
surfaces, food and water bowls, collars and leashes) and people moving between infected and uninfected dogs. Dogs housed in kennels or other closed environments are especially susceptible. Symptoms of disease are seen in most dogs that become exposed and develop two to four days after exposure. The virus infects cells of the respiratory tract and coughing is the most common sign. If bacteria then moves in to infect the inflamed cells too, the dog may develop a nasal discharge, become lethargic and have a decreased appetite. Although most dogs contract only a mild form of canine influenza and recover without complications, some may develop pneumonia that becomes severe and requires aggressive
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therapy. These dogs may show signs such as a high-grade fever (104°F to 106°F) with increased respiratory rate and effort and develop a nasty nasal discharge. Thoracic radiography (chest x-rays) may reveal consolidation of lung lobes. We must suspect influenza in patients that have a history of exposure to other dogs and develop a persistent cough in spite of antibiotics or antitussive medications. These infections are indistinguishable from “kennel cough” caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. Definitive diagnosis of the canine flu organism is possible with blood testing sent to reference labs, but this step is not usually necessary to guide treatment. Dogs with mild cases of the flu may not need specific drug therapy, but should receive good nutrition and be kept warm while avoiding vigorous activity. Because the virus is so contagious, they should be isolated until symptoms have stopped to prevent exposing other dogs. Cases with a persistent cough, fever, purulent nasal discharge, loss of appetite and lethargy have probably developed a more serious bacterial infection and are at risk of more severe illness. They should begin a course of antibiotics and may require hospitalization if severe pneumonia ensues. A vaccine has been developed to provide dogs with a degree of immunity to this virus. Infection can still occur even in vaccinated dogs, but a heightened immune response would be expected to limit the disease to the very mild form. Vaccination will also minimize shedding of the virus and contagion to other dogs. At the present time, we recommend vaccination only for those expected to spend time among other dogs—in boarding kennels, dog shows or obedience training classes, etc. Administration of the influenza vaccine, along with that for Bordetella, makes perfect sense considering the at-risk groups are the same. We will stock the vaccine at our new hospital and recommend it for dogs at risk of exposure. Suzen Dennis, of the Tailwaggers Country Inn in Van Alstyne, agrees that the risk of exposure may soon warrant vaccination of dogs being accepted for boarding. v
Stonebridge Animal Hospital sets new standards of client service and professional pet care “Three decades of practicing veterinary medicine has taught me that it takes only two elements to make a great veterinary practice—being nice to people and practicing outstanding medicine is the proven formula,” says Dr. Ed Mapes of Dr. Ed Mapes Stonebridge Animal Hospital. The hospital was founded on the following principles: • Always treat patients with compassionate care. • Ensure that all of our clients receive unmatched service. • Practice the finest medicine and surgery possible, making use of the latest techniques and the most modern equipment the industry has to offer.
The practice’s mission is to provide pet owners with unmatched levels or service—from conversations on the telephone to warm greetings, from taking their pictures to providing all of the information about their pets’ conditions with written estimates. The outstanding service continues after patient release with follow-ups to ensure that they progress satisfactorily and that all questions are answered. Dr. Mapes’ philosophy of medicine is that clients deserve to know options for their pets’ care; they bring pets to the hospital to receive appropriate therapy based on accurate diagnostics. “Taking the time and expending the extra effort to reach the right diagnosis is what good medicine is all about. This approach allows patients to improve more rapidly with less discomfort and pain, and is more economical in the long run.” From Partners in wellness programs that save hundreds of dollars each year for premium care to advanced techniques such as laser therapy, laser surgery and stem cell regenerative medicine, Stonebridge Animal Hospital has introduced a new level of patient care, client service and great medicine to North Texas because our clients and their pets deserve it.
The hospital staff was chosen from a wide field of applicants—from experienced professionals interested in elevating the standard of veterinary care they provide and with proven track records of caring for patients with compassionate care.
5913 Virginia Parkway | McKinney | 214-856-7005 | stonebridgeanimalhospital.com Advertorial
June 1 – Texas Ranger Trip to Arlington,
June 3 – Beach Club Pool Party, 6 p June 7 – Movie Night, 9 p.m. June 13 – Kid’s Splash Hop, 8:30
June 21 – Karaoke Party, 8:30 p. Beach Club Pool Party 6 p.m. (BTC) 7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8-9:15 pm—Zumba Dance (CR)
9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Select Tennis Acad
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch.com for event details.
7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8-9:15 pm—Zumba Dance (CR) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8-9:15 pm—Zumba Dance (CR)
Modifications Meeting 6 p.m. (BR) 9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 8-9:15 pm—Zumba Dance (CR) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun 9-10 am—Stroller S 10:30-11:30 am—Zu
7:45-8:45 am—Fun 9-10 am—Stroller S 10:30-11:30 am—Zu
8 am-2 pm—Junior Select Tennis Acad
Social Commi Meeting, 9 a.m
7:45-8:45 am—Fun 9-10 am—Stroller S 10:30-11:30 am—Zu
8 am-2 pm—Junior Select Tennis Acad
Modifications Meeting 6 p.m. (BR) 9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun 9-10 am—Stroller S 10:30-11:30 am—Zu
8 am-2 pm—Junior Select Tennis Acad
Texas Ranger Trip to Arlington, 1:30 p.m. (BTC)
, 1:30 p.m. (BTC)
p.m. (BTC) (BTC) p.m. (AC)
.m. (AC)
n Fitness (BTC) Strides (BTC) umba Dance (CR)
9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Tennis Camps, demy (BTC)
n Fitness (BTC) Strides (BTC) umba Dance (CR)
r Tennis Camps, demy (BTC)
ittee m. (BR)
n Fitness (BTC) Strides (BTC) umba Dance (CR)
Kid’s Splash Hop, 8:30 p.m. (AC) 9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC)
r Tennis Camps, demy (BTC)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 10:30-11:30 am—Zumba Dance (CR)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 10:30-11:30 am—Zumba Dance (CR)
8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
r Tennis Camps, demy (BTC)
n Fitness (BTC) Strides (BTC) umba Dance (CR)
Movie Night 9 p.m. (BTC)
9:15-10:15 am—Camp Gladiator (BTC) 8 am-2 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Karaoke Party, 8:30 p.m. (AC) 7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 10:30-11:30 am—Zumba Dance (CR)
7:45-8:45 am—Fun Fitness (BTC) 9-10 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 10:30-11:30 am—Zumba Dance (CR)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch.com for event details.
landscape & garden Enhancements through Landscape by Shannon Sheriff
Over the years Stonebridge Ranch has become a community with its own identity and has evolved into one of the most desirable residential areas in North Texas. Our goal is to keep the community’s beauty and add a layer of conformity throughout the entire 514 acres of common space within the association. With that in mind, we teamed with landscape architects to take us to the next level, combining thoughts of association branding, water conservation and sustainable appeal to continue the community’s vision. When we consider the extreme weather systems that have challenged us over the last five years and the plant life
age, it is no surprise that we have lost some landscaping. Based on feedback from the most recent resident survey, a majority of owners who participated felt use of association funds would be best allocated to fix what we already have before adding additional features. The landscape and grounds committee and board of directors used that feedback to create a prioritized list of enhancements to the common area property. The committee enacted a weighted scale to prioritize projects based on public presence, cost and compliance. While we have been successful at completing most projects, many are still pending dependent upon future funding. An example of a high visibility enhancement that was recently completed is the sod replacement on Cotton Ridge Road, which was overhauled with Zoysia sod. The Zoysia grass was chosen for several reasons. It’s more shade tolerant and requires less water than Bermuda or St. Augustine. The overall look of the Zoysia is pleasing. Many monuments that had been lacking vegetation were updated with plants that are on the association’s approved pallette. Multiple monuments around Canterbury had a complete face lift including dwarf crape myrtles that should add a pop of color and character to the village. The visionary goal when replacing the monument and entry landscaping is to combine the look and feel of the community while at the same time conserving water by using more plant life that can tolerate the Texas summers year after year. The feedback we are receiving from homeowners has been wonderful! The landscape and grounds committee dedicated a tremendous amount of time and effort putting together and reviewing the list of enhancement and replacement landscape. The changes totaled almost $400,000 and have finally been completed as of this past month. However, work is still ongoing! Many of you have requested enhancements and replacements throughout the community. We have been gathering images and estimates for committee review. Thank you to all the homeowners that have been supportive and appreciative of the efforts put forth to make this plan come to life. v Shannon Sheriff is the Community Association assistant manager.
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Financial Update
fInancIal update
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. This 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 associations 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, 514 acres of common area landscape, 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 these funds as outlined in the board approved 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 $5.0M. 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 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. v Michael Lesku, CMCA®, AMS® is the Association Manager.
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 $5.0M. Operating reserve funds are invested by a third party investment firm. Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x June 2013
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your neIg hbor Board Member Spotlight: Bill Campbell by Tricia Scruggs
How long have you lived in Stonebridge Ranch and in which village do you reside? We moved to Stonebridge in September 2001 and we live in Willow Brook.
Tell us about your family? I am married to Kelli and we have three boys, Connor, a freshman at Boyd High School and Knox and Keegan (fraternal twins), who are sixth graders at Evans Middle School.
What led you to run for election to the board of directors? I have been involved in McKinney since I moved here back in 2001 in a number of organizations, committees and boards. Seeking election to the SB Board seemed like the next logical step.
What other volunteer experience do you possess? I have volunteered with the McKinney Rotary Club,
YMCA Indian Guides, Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Engineers Without Borders, North Texas Multisport, Oktoberfest and Bike the Bricks (McKinney Main Street), McKinney Community Development Corporation and McKinney Boyd High School Band, just to name a few.
In what way are you hoping to help the most? I have always heard that your choices are time, talent or treasure. Since I don’t have more of the third than I know what to do with (yet), I will offer up the first two. I was always taught that you are supposed to leave a place cleaner than you found it; I have tried to apply that to the things that I come across in my life.
What were your thoughts when you learned you’d been elected to the board? I was relieved and excited. This is a great time for Stonebridge and we need to keep up the high standards that drew us all here in the first place.
When it comes to ice cream, chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate, as long as it’s good chocolate!
What are your hobbies/interests? Outdoor activities like hunting, camping, ATVs and mountain biking, and indoor activities like cooking, reading and napping.
Do you have a bucket list? Not officially, but traveling to more foreign countries is definitely something I want to do. v Tricia Scruggs is a freelance writer from Stonebridge Ranch.
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www.stonebrIdgeranch.com Summer Fun! by Lisa Pogacnik
The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association hosts a wide range of activities during the summer months. This year one of main events is the Stonebridge Ranch 25th Anniversary RanchFest! The weekend of July 26, the association will host a three-day event that includes an 80s themed party, free concert, sporting events, car show, huge kids zone and more! You can find the details on this event as well as all the other events hosted by the association at www.stonebridgeranch.com. To help you plan your summer days, the community website also lists the guidelines and schedules for all community amenities. The Recreation Facilities tab outlines the paddleboat rentals, lake use and fishing guidelines and the use of the volleyball courts. The Pool and Tennis Information tab will provide schedules for The Aquatics Center, Beach Club, swim lessons, aqua aerobics and tennis classes. It also will provide information about pavilion rentals and photo IDs.
If you are planning any modifications to the outside of your home, you can find the Design Guidelines and printable application under the Modifications Information tab. If you would like to submit your application online, follow these easy steps: • Login • Mouse over the Modifications Information tab • Click the Modifications Request tab • Click the ACC Request button at the bottom of the page • Scroll down to the bottom of the page and fill out the request form • Submit Do you receive our e-News? The e-News is a weekly email filled with important information and event updates. If you don’t receive the e-News, be sure to visit www. stonebridgeranch.com to join the mailing list. v Lisa Pogacnik is the web administrator for Stonebridge Ranch.
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socIal scene Family Beach Party Monday, June 3, 6 p.m.
We had great turnouts last summer at our family beach parties, so don’t miss out! This season kicks off with Nick and the Nighthawks on Monday, June 3, from 6-9 p.m. The group plays guitar-driven originals and covers, spanning all genres from the 50s to present day. Space is limited to the first 500 residents and guests. Five hundred hot dogs will be served (one per person), so if you have a big appetite, you may want to pack a picnic basket. Since this is also a swimming event, an adult must accompany children under 12 years of age. A Stonebridge I.D., or other form of identification, with current Stonebridge Ranch address, is required. Coolers are permitted, but no glass containers are allowed. There is a $5 non-resident guest fee.
Family Movie Night Friday, June 7, 9 p.m.
Remember drive-in theatres? It’s 2013 and the next best thing to pulling up your car and popping in a static-filled speaker is bringing a blanket, cooler and the kids, and watching a movie on a big outdoor screen! Join us “hill-side” by the basketball and tennis courts
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for Here Comes the Boom. The movie will begin at dusk (about 9 p.m.) Popcorn is on us and cold water will be on hand. Be sure to bring snacks and beverages (only plastic containers) and don’t forget the bug spray. In this comedy, former collegiate wrestler Scott Voss is now a 42-year-old, apathetic biology teacher in a failing high school. When cutbacks threaten the school’s music program and its teacher, Scott springs into action. He dusts off his long-unused wrestling skills and earns money for the program by moonlighting as a mixed martial arts fighter. Though the school nurse thinks he’s crazy, Scott gains something he never expected, and the school rallies behind him. Kevin James, Salma Hayek, Henry Winkler; Columbia Pictures; Directed by Frank Coraci; Rated PG; 105 minutes; 2012 (edited version)
socIal scene Kids Splash Hop at the Aquatic Center Thursday, June 13, 8:30 p.m. What’s more fun on a hot summer night than a neighborhood pool party just for kids? On Thursday, June 13, from 8:30-10:30 p.m., a Splash Hop will be held at the Aquatic Center for children ages 10-12. Consider it a “date night”, mom and dad, and drop off the kids! With a pool manager, lifeguards and the McKinney Police Department in attendance, there will be plenty of security. Hot dogs will be served and a DJ will play music. There is no charge for SBR residents; however there is a $5 charge for non-residents. McKinney police officers will monitor the front gate throughout the evening and once checked in, children will not be allowed outside the gates until their parent or guardian arrives. Please plan to pick up children inside the gate at 10:30 p.m.
SUMMER CAMPS 2013 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. Since having fun is the number one factor in keeping kids involved, 10 & Under Tennis aims to foster more enjoyable experiences early on in the learning process. 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: $90 per week
TENNIS ACADEMY The academy is 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: 8-10 a.m.—Drills; 10-11 a.m.—Fitness (optional);
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socIal scene 12-2 p.m.— Match Play. Cost: Morning Session only $160 per week; Match Camp Session only $130 per week; Full Camp $240 per week
Tennis Camp Dates: Week 1—June 10-13; Week 2—June 17-20; Week 3— June 24-27; Week 4—July 1-5; (No classes on July 4) Week 5—July 8-11; Week 6—July 15-18; Week 7—July 15-18; Week 8—July 22-25; Week 9—July 29-August 1; Week 10—August 5-8; Week 11—August 12-15.
13th ANNUAL SUMMER SPECTACULAR KID’S CAMP This camp is for kids ages 6-10 and includes tennis, swimming, arts and crafts and lunch; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; $150 for one camp and $280 for both camps. Week 1—July 29-August 1 and Week 2—August 5-8.
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CAMP POLICIES & PROCEDURES Due to inclement weather, Fridays will be used as make-up days for all camps. If you are uncertain whether or not classes will be held, check. Should classes be cancelled, a message will be posted on the website 30 minutes before class time. A 10 percent discount will be given to all students signing up for multiple weeks. It is the parent’s responsibility to take off the 10 percent prior to sending the check. Registration also is available online or mail to Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, 6201 Virginia Pkwy., McKinney, TX 75071, Attention: Dave Wiest.
KARAOKE POOL PARTY Friday, June 21, 8:30 p.m.
Start the summer off with a fun filled evening for the whole family! Bring the gang out to the Aquatic Center on Friday, June 21, from 8:30-10:30 p.m. for an all-ages swim and karaoke party! We had a strong turnout for this event last summer with many great karaoke performers. Even if you don’t sing, this night is guaranteed to be a lot of fun. Hot dogs will be served while supplies last. Bring your own beverage. No glass containers. Nonresident guest fee is $5. v
lIfestyle McKinney Area Newcomers Club Meeting
If you are new to the McKinney area within the past two years, come join us for fun, information and friendship on Tuesday, June 18. Every month we have great speakers, nice door prizes, tasty refreshments and lots of good socializing with new friends. We invite you to join us for our monthly coffee meeting. For more information on Newcomers, email us at newcomersTX@gmail.com. Our program for June will be hosting the McKinney Summer Musical Program for a short rendition of their upcoming summer musical, Fiddler on the Roof. The mission of the McKinney Summer Musical Program is to provide high-quality, family-oriented theater with the involvement of local vocalists, dancers, instrumentalists and artists. This summer’s show dates are July 13, 14, 18, 19, 20 and 21, at the McKinney North High School. Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 18, in the Community Room at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 Virginia Parkway in McKinney. Social time with refreshments will begin at 9:30 a.m.
Fairview. Come join us and get a glimpse of the latest summer fashions and a sneak peak at the upcoming fall season trends. The Voyagers Social Club generally meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at the Craig-Heard Gallery (3 blocks from the Square in historic downtown McKinney) and is open to all women of McKinney and surrounding areas. The goal of the club is to promote friendship and offer ladies an opportunity to socialize and participate in a number of activity interest groups. Our meetings include a social hour, program and brief business meeting. For more information about the holiday luncheon or our club, please contact voyagersofmckinney@gmail.com. v
McKinney Ladies
Association Presents Check The McKinney Ladies Association presented Community Lifeline Center with a check for $10,000 this week at their monthly meeting. Community Lifeline Center is once again the beneficiary of the ladies organization’s annual spring fashion show. The McKinney Ladies Association, through its special events and fundraising efforts, is dedicated to supporting the children and families of our community. For more information about MLA or how to become a member of this exciting ladies organization, visit www.mckinneyladies. org. Look for us on facebook at Mckinney Ladies Association and on twitter @McKinneyLadies .
Voyagers Social Club Of Mckinney
The next Voyagers Social Club meeting will be our annual spring brunch held on Friday June 14, at the Heritage Ranch Country Club in Fairview at 11:30 a.m. Each June we celebrate the installation of our officers who were elected in May with a brunch or luncheon and program. The cost of the brunch is $20 and open to members and guests. Our program this year will feature a trunk show brought to us by the Coldwater Creek store in the Village at Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x June 2013
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complIance tI p s Summer is here! Summer is here—have fun at the Aquatic Center, the beach, parks, walking trails and lakes. Have a picnic and enjoy all the facilities at Stonebridge Ranch. Our 25th Anniversary will be celebrated in July with several events for everyone to enjoy.
House Numbers: Curb numbers shall only be black numbers on a white background or white numbers on a black background. For emergency vehicles to find your home, if necessary, it is important that your house number on the home is not hidden with shrubs.
Fencing: If you need to repair just a section of fence you do not need to submit an application. If you need to replace the fence you do need to submit. If a new fence is required and it is shared with a neighbor you will also be required to submit a “neighbor agreement form”. The application form and the neighbor agreement form are online at www. stonebridgeranch.com
Landscaping: Maintaining a yard is crucial to everyone enjoying a beautiful place in which to reside. So please weed, mow and edge on a regular basis.
Painting: Now is a good time to repaint all the areas where paint has chipped off or worn away.
Roofs: If you have to replace your roof please submit an application advising the shingle color, warranty and manufacturer.
Trash Totes: Please store your trash totes and recycle bins. Totes should be behind a shrub if placed at the side of the home. Totes may be put out no earlier than 8 p.m. the day prior to trash day and should be properly stored within 24 hours.
Dogs: The office is receiving more calls about homeowners who are not picking up after their pets. Each pet owner shall promptly clean and remove the discharge and waste of his or her pet. The association has many trash receptacles in each village for homeowners to use. Please keep the walking areas pleasant for everyone.
New guidelines: Check the website for guidelines as in the past year there have been changes to the Design Guidelines for Residential Modifications, The Master Design Guidelines and the By-laws.
The Violation Process: The Covenant Fining and Enforcement Policy will be followed when violations need to be sent. The process is as
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complIance tI ps
follows: a postcard; 1st letter; 2nd letter; fine of $50; fine of $100; fine of $200; board action—which can impose a fine of $500 per month. If a violation reoccurs within the six-month period since its inception, the violation escalates to the next level.
Modifications: Following are some of the items needing approval BEFORE installation: fence; arbor; pool; spa; waterfall;
gazebo; deck; patio; sheds; swing set; playset/playhouse; additions or remodels. You are in violation if approval is not obtained. Go to www.stonebridgeranch.com. If you are not registered you will need to register. Your account begins with 003. Click on the Modifications Information/Request menu item. The request will be logged automatically to your account. Complete the application and add any required documents. You may track the progress of your request here as well. You can also manually print the form if you do not log in to your account. This can be faxed, emailed or sent to the office. The design guidelines are also on this page so you can look up your item to check you have all the required documents. Address changes: IMPORTANT—If you move please contact the CMA corporate office to advise the address change, 972.943.2800 or go to cmamanagement.com. This is imperative if you decide to rent or lease your home. All homeowners, renters or persons leasing a home must abide by the Stonebridge Ranch Guidelines and CC&R’s. The Compliance Team is here to help and advise you, please call 214.733.5800. CMA Compliance Coordinators—Denise Spain, Rony Peterson, Courtney Birmingham. M.A.R.C Compliance Coordinator—Joyce Martin (new construction only). v
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health & wellness Benefits of High Intensity Interval Training by Janet Randall We all know that a regular exercise program yields significant health benefits. However, if you’re like most people, finding time to exercise regularly is very difficult. This is where high intensity interval training, or HIIT, comes in to save the day. HIIT training alternates between fixed periods of intense bursts of activity and periods of less intense activity or rest. Continuous exercise has been the typical way to improve cardiovascular fitness. Most individuals have done this by increasing the length of exercise, such as longer runs or bike rides or more time on the treadmill and elliptical machines. However, research is showing that HIIT can result in a multitude of physiological improvements in less time than high-volume, or long length, steady-state continuous exercise. As we’ve begun to understand more about HIIT, exercise scientists have found that it can boost the performance of competitive athletes, improve the health of recreational exercisers and provide the benefits of continuous-endurance training with fewer workouts. In
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fact, they have found that HIIT not only improves cardiovascular function, but also improves how muscles break down and use energy, allowing individuals to run longer at higher intensities. Additionally, HIIT training programs have been shown to increase post exercise oxygen consumption. This means that individuals who complete a HIIT workout burn calories at a higher rate for a longer period of time after exercise has stopped. VO2max is a way to measure how well the body uses oxygen for energy at its highest heart rate and is a good predictor of exercise performance. Improving cardiovascular function increases the body’s VO2max. In 2008, researchers measured VO2max responses among men and women who participated in an 8-week HIIT program and a continuous cardiovascular training program. VO2max increases were higher in the HIIT program (15 percent) than they were in the continuous training program (9 percent). Some things to consider when designing a HIIT program are the duration, intensity and frequency of the high-intensity
health & wellness or “work” interval, and the length of the recovery or “rest” interval. Depending on your goals, the work interval can last anywhere from five seconds to eight minutes at 80-100 percent maximal power output. The rest interval can range from very little movement to the more common active recovery of about 50-70 percent of power output. Additionally, the ratio of work to rest intervals is also an important consideration. Many studies use a ratio of exercise to recovery. For example, a 1:1 ratio could be 20 seconds of work followed by 20 seconds of rest. A 1:2 ratio would be a 30 second work interval followed by a 1-minute rest. An example of a HIIT workout for the treadmill is as follows: • Warm-up: 10 minutes of light jogging. • Work Interval: With the treadmill at 5 percent grade and speed at 3 miles per hour (mph), switch to high-intensity interval by increasing speed to 5-6.5 mph—without changing grade. Each interval is one minute. • Rest Interval: Two minutes of walking at 3 mph. Do not adjust incline. • Work-to-rest ratio: 1:2 • Frequency: 6-8 repetitions of this sequence. • Cool-down: 5-10 minutes of easy jogging. This is a hill-running interval session. Incline, running speed, interval length and rest interval can all be adjusted. One more thing to consider before beginning a HIIT training program is your current fitness level. If you are restarting an exercise program you will want to incorporate a progression of activity before incorporating a HIIT training workout into your weekly exercise routine to decrease chances of injury. A general rule of thumb is that if you can run for 30 consecutive minutes at a moderate intensity you’re ready to progress to the more intense HIIT training. Knowing that HIIT training programs produce similar, and in some cases better, improvements in cardiovascular, metabolic and muscular function of the body in less time than continuous exercise programs, it definitely is a time efficient way for all of us to reach our fitness goals. v Janet Randall hosts fitness boot camps for Stonebridge Ranch residents.
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around mckI n ney Medical Center of McKinney Welcomes New Chief Operating Officer Will Windham has been named the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Medical Center of McKinney. “Will brings a range of experience in management and strategic planning. We are excited he has joined the Medical Center of McKinney team,” said Ernest C. Lynch, III, Medical Center of McKinney CEO. Prior to joining Medical Center of McKinney on April 15, Windham was the Assistant Chief Operating Officer and Chief Staffing Officer for Hospital Corporation of America’s (HCA) Centennial Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee. HCA is the parent company of Medical Center of McKinney. Windham also served as the Associate Administrator for HCA’s Strategic Resource Group and as the Administrative Fellow for HCA-HealthONE—Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center in Denver, Colorado. Windham received his bachelor’s in business administration from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Virginia Commonwealth University. v
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