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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS MAY 2016
Vol. 4, Issue 5
Contents 22
IN EVERY ISSUE 5
20
From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia
8
This Month’s Feature by Erica Lee
12
Inside the Ranch by Erica Lee
16
Community Calendar
24
Compliance Tips by Nate Russell
25
Around the Ranch
26 Lifestyle 27
Social Scene
SPECIAL SECTIONS 15
Aquatic Center Schedule
18
Photo ID Schedule
19
Beach Club Pool Schedule
20
Bits and Pieces
12 25
Stonebridge Ranch News © 2016 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 Erica Lee Nate Russell
cover photo
Another pool season is upon us It is once again time for our pools to open. Summer is just around the corner. The pools will begin opening on weekends starting May 7, from 12 to 5 p.m. This will last through May until after Labor Day. Beginning May 31, the pools will be open on the full schedule from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The Beach Club will be closed on Mondays for cleaning and the Aquatic Center on Tuesdays. Our annual meeting was held on March 10 at the Crosspoint Church. We reviewed our 2015 activities as well as our updated Strategic Plan with the homeowners in attendance. We elected three board members: two incumbents, Michael Yon and Bill Campbell were re-elected and one new member, Don Hanson, joined the board. Welcome, Don! Mayor Brian Loughmiller also brought us up-to-date on happenings in the city. At the annual meeting, it was also noted that the association is in a very strong financial position. Our financial statements for 2015 have been audited and we have a clean opinion.
March 17 Organizational Board Meeting
We held our annual organizational meeting to elect the officers of the board for the coming year. Unanimously elected were: President, Jon Dell’Antonia; Vice President, Ron Ferris; Secretary, Michael Yon; and Treasurer, Norm Counts. Next was the appointment of directors as liaisons to the standing committees of the board: Amenities Committee, Director Don Hanson; Communications Committee, Director Bill Campbell; Finance Committee, Treasurer Norm Counts; Landscape and Grounds Committee, Director Tom George; Modifications Committee and Master Architectural Review Committee, Vice President Ron Ferris; Social Committee, Secretary Michael Yon.
March 24 Board Meeting
The board meeting of March 24 was called to order at 1 p.m. Six board members were present. Board member Bill Campbell did not attend. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared. The next item of business was to ratify all decisions since the last board meeting, including approval of the 2015 Financial Audit and approval of an appointment to the Amenities Committee.
Old Business
The board reviewed the status of the Community Room expansion project. As you read this newsletter, the expansion project should be completed and the Community Room once again open for activities. The project nearly doubled the amount of space available for our growing social activities and includes a new entrance in the front of the building. We also had an update on the status of the redesign plans for enhancing the Custer Road and Stonebridge Ranch entrance. We discussed our governing documents and decided to begin a review and update of them on an annual basis.
New Business
We approved the pool hours for the 2016 swim season.
Executive Session
Five homeowners appeared to appeal violations. We also reviewed two other appeals of violations, and nine other violations presented to the board for resolution and made appropriate decisions. Construction has finally started on the Civic Plaza project. This is the development of a plaza area on the vacant ground south of the Aquatic Center—land that has been vacant for over 25 years. There is an article in this month’s issue about this project that explains it in detail. Construction is scheduled to be complete by late summer. The monthly collections report was reviewed and approved.
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.
The board reviewed the financial package containing the following reports: Financial Management Report, Balance Sheet, Variance Report, Income Statement, A/R Schedules and Investment Schedule. We reviewed the status of our revised Strategic Plan developed last December. This is something we do every month to stay focused on our priorities.Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in committee minutes. The meeting adjourned at 5:39 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2016
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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 Scott Albert—Director of Operations Rony Peterson—Executive Assistant/Compliance Coordinator Erica Lee—Communications Coordinator Erica Peoples— Compliance Coordinator Nate Russell—Compliance Coordinator Joyce Martin—M.A.R.C. Compliance Coordinator Michael Cawley—Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Torres—Maintenance Assistant David Wiest—Lifestyle Director Lynette Rowell—Administrative Assistant
Board of Directors Jon Dell’Antonia—President Ron Ferris—Vice-President Norm Counts—Treasurer Michael Yon—Secretary Tom George—Director Bill Campbell—Director Donald Hanson—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 Successful Annual Meeting Resulted in Election of 3 New Board Members by Erica Lee On March 10, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association hosted a successful annual meeting at Crosspoint Church. Board President Jon Dell’Antonia welcomed residents by giving an overview of the members and responsibilities of the board of directors. He presented a plaque of thanks to Rich MacFee, former board member of 10 years who stepped down from the board last fall. After the board president’s introduction, ballots were cast by residents. With the final tally of in-person, by proxy and online votes, three residents were elected to serve on the board of directors, each for a term of three years. Congratulations to Bill Campbell and Michael Yon, returning board members, and to Donald Hanson, who was elected for his first term. Following the collection of voting ballots, the board president reviewed Stonebridge Ranch 2015 highlights and the Strategic Plan, noting that assessments have not increased in five years, that the association is in a strong financial position with 99.6% of 2015 assessments collected,
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and that 970 new residents moved into Stonebridge Ranch last year. The committee liaisons to the board next reported on the 2015 efforts and 2016 plans of each association committee: Amenities, Landscape & Grounds, Social, Modifications & Architectural Review and Communications. Highlights included an overview of the new Civic Plaza (see the story in this issue, page 12) and news about a new village to be added called Melton Ridge by Shaddock Homes and American Legend.. After meeting adjournment, the evening ended with a presentation from McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller regarding recent developments and plans for the city. We thank all residents who participated in voting, as well as all residents who attended the meeting. Your support is invaluable and relates directly to the strength of our association and community. If you were unable to attend the meeting, you can find the board and mayor presentations on the website at www.stonebridgeranch.com. F
thIs month’ s feature New Board Member Donald Hanson Can’t Wait to Get to Work by Erica Lee The SRCA has elected a new director who has energy, and lots of it. Donald Hanson, selected in March for his first three-year term, is a selfproclaimed “type A” personality who has “always gotta be doing something.” His can-do attitude and need for activity is one reason he decided to run for the board of directors. It was also instilled in him early in life. The descendant of Norwegian immigrants to the U.S., Donald was raised on a dairy farm in Minnesota. His wife, Sandi, was raised on a dairy farm 15 miles away, and the pair celebrated their 50th anniversary last September. Of his wife, Donald smiles and says, “We both know what hard work is.” As a young man, Donald studied carpentry at the Dunwoody Industrial Institute. “I’ve always loved construction and working with my hands,” he says. He spent his entire career in construction, working his
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thIs month’ s feature way up from being an apprentice carpenter to a foreman, superintendant, project manager, and eventually, senior project manager. “The thing that I like about construction,” he says, “is that there is something physically there when you finish. I drive around with my son and point to a building and say, ‘I built that one.’ It’s about leaving something behind rather than shuffling paperwork on a desk.” Donald is the best kind of dreamer: someone who sees his dreams through to reality. “I love scheduling projects. You build it in a couple weeks’ time on paper and in your mind. Then you go out and make it happen.” Though he is retired from construction now, Donald certainly isn’t sitting still. He is an avid woodworker and he cycles over 1500 miles per year, including in events such as the Hotter ‘N Hell Hundred. He just finished restoring a 1951 Schwinn bike, the exact bicycle he rode as a child in Minnesota. The bike was Donald’s first restoration project, one he took on to learn how to help his son in the complete restoration of a 1954 Chevy truck. Donald is also a member of numerous organizations in McKinney, including the McRats, the Romeos and Seniors Helping Seniors. He says his background in construction and his ability to work with his hands makes him a go-to guy for helping other seniors with home maintenance. “I find it very rewarding,” he says. “People are very grateful for the help, and it makes me happy.” He also loves spending time with his son, daughter-
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in-law, and granddaughter, Emily, who also live in McKinney. His voice trails off when he speaks of Emily. “When she was born…. Nothing could ever steal my heart like she did. I like teaching her how to fish and just being around her.” A hard-working hobbyist and family man, Donald also values giving back to his community. He says, “The board is a place I can use my skills to help keep the community the way it was designed to be.” He will serve as the liaison to the board for the Amenities Committee, an area where his career background will certainly be put to good use. “I have the expertise to make sure homeowners’ dollars are being spent wisely. And it’s great to be getting involved with the type of projects that are dear to my heart.” Donald is also excited to be working with the other board members. “We all are from different backgrounds and experiences,” he says, “and we all want to make Stonebridge Ranch a great place to live. We have type A, B and C personalities on the board, and it’s great to pull together to make decisions.” Of his retirement, Donald is certainly making full use. “I love everything that Stonebridge is doing to help retired people stay busy. I myself don’t want to be just around old people in a retirement community…” Again his voice trails off and there is a sparkle in his eye when he smiles and says, “…because I’m not old!” F
InsId e the ranch From Dream to Reality: Construction of New Civic Plaza Soon to Begin by Erica Lee For over 25 years, a plot of land in the heart of Stonebridge Ranch has remained vacant while over 5,000 acres have been developed around it. Coming in 2016, this 5.4 acre plot of land near the corner of Stonebridge Drive and Coronado will no longer be home only to wildflowers, local bird life, and the sounds of families playing in the pools at the nearby Aquatic Center. Instead, it will serve as a new and vibrant meeting place for Stonebridge Ranch residents of all ages, providing never-before-seen amenities here in our community.
Planning Stages
Planning for this new Civic Plaza began in 2015, when the Amenities Committee completed a Master Plan at the request of the board of directors. This master plan, completed by an outside consultant, included an inventory of all shared and open spaces in Stonebridge Ranch to determine the current condition and future potential of each. After taking stock of these items and also researching
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the types of amenities offered by surrounding communities, the committee determined an exciting top priority: the development of the vacant lot adjacent to the Aquatic Center.
Breaking Ground
Rather than developing the lot to promote the types of leisure activities already found in our community, the committee recognized an opportunity to expand our shared portfolio of amenities. They also focused on the ability of Stonebridge residents to use the space twelve months of the year, not just during the summers when Stonebridge Ranch pools are open. With hopes for a ground-breaking this spring and completion by the fall, the plans for the Civic Plaza include two playground areas, a large pavilion, a dry deck fountain, picnic tables adjacent to a unique food truck parking area, and pickleball courts. Year-round activities could include civic events and staging for fun runs and bike rides.
InsIde the ranch
Construction
Plans for construction include sensitivity for the surrounding neighbors and considerations for parking at
the Aquatic Center during the construction phase. Existing large trees around the perimeter, as well as the topography of the vacant lot, will be kept very similar to existing conditions in order to keep impact to neighbors low. The contractor has also pledged to keep the impact to parking at a minimum. A few parking spaces on the southern and western sides of the Aquatic Center parking lot will be temporarily used during construction staging.
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InsId e the ranch Result
The SRCA looks forward to bringing this vacant lot to life. The plot may be empty today, but following construction, the Civic Plaza is sure to be a gathering place for residents of all ages throughout the year. We look forward to hearing the giggles of children as they play in the dry deck fountain. The picnic tables promise to be full of friends enjoying food of an exciting variety. The pickleball courts will bring a different sport to our neighborhoods. Above all, the Civic Plaza will expand the range of year-round leisure activities that we can share together here in Stonebridge Ranch, providing new ways for families and neighbors to connect with each other. F
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Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch.com for event details.
Book Club, 7 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)
Coffee Talk, 8:30 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR) Bingo 7 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30 Social Committe noon (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)
Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) Memorial Day at the Beach Club, 11 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
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9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
May 2, 9, 1 may 4, 11, may 6 may 6, 13, may 7 may 9 B May 10 may 13 may 17 Tr may 21 May 26 may 28 E may 30 m
Playdate in the Park, 9 a.m. (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
Evening on the Veranda, 7:30 p.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR) ee Meeting,
r Strides (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
0 a.m. (CR)
r Strides (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Coffee, Cars & Conversation, 8:30 a.m. (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
r Strides (BTC)
College Mix &Mingle, 7 p.m. (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
Hook, Line & Sinker Children’s Fishing Tournament, 9 a.m. (WP)
Electronic Recycling Event, 9:30 a.m. (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
16, 23 & 30 Walking club 9 am (Btc) 18 & 25 coffee talk 8:30 AM (CR) Playdate in the Park 10 AM (sm) 20 & 27 tgif 1 pm (CR) hook, Line & Sinker fishing tournament 9 am (wp) Book club 7 pm (BR) bingo night 7 pm (cR) evening on the veranda 7:30 pm (btc) Travel Club 9 Am (cR) coffee, cars & conversation 8:30 am (BTC) college mix & mingle 7 pm (btc) Electronic recycling event 9:30 am (btc) memorial day at the beach club 11 am (btc)
Stonebridge Ranch Ranch News News News HOA Mayx 2016 2016 September 2013 Stonebridge xx May
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bIt s & pI eces Meet Erica Lee, the New Communications Coordinator by Erica Lee
From my desk window in the Community Association building, I can see the community room now under construction, the sandy beach of the Beach and Tennis Club, and the eastern edge of Lake Stonebridge. In SRCA common areas during my first two weeks on the job, I have already seen ducks, a bobcat, cardinals, numerous herons, a baby bunny and many bird species I don’t know by name. I feel happy to serve Stonebridge Ranch as the Communications Coordinator because, quite simply, there is so much life to see and report around here! And as pleasant as they are, the scenes outside my window are the mere tip of the iceberg. As I’ve met fellow staff members, members of the board and SRCA committees, and the residents of Stonebridge, I’ve been impressed by two
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bIts & pIe ces things: the friendliness of this community and the wealth of interesting stories you all have to share. Though I love writing, I find it a strange task to introduce myself. (It was much easier for me to write the articles about Donald Hanson and Scott Albert, for example, which are also in this issue.) Just as I was feeling stuck, the members of the TGIF Coffee group began assembling next to my office in the Community Building boardroom. The hallway filled with the sounds of their laughter and happy voices, so I stopped by and asked them, “As residents, what do you want to know about me?” Below are my written responses to the questions they asked me; I thank them for their kindness, smiles and help!
What brought you to Stonebridge Ranch?
In my last job, much of my work was technical writing and project management. I wanted to focus more in the areas of marketing and communications. When I saw the job listing for the Communications Coordinator position for Stonebridge Ranch, I saw a great opportunity to be a storyteller in an engaged and unique community. I’m eager to work with the board of directors, committees and CMA staff to provide accurate and helpful information in support of strategic goals and in support of residents.
Are you new to the area? Tell us about your family.
I have lived in the Dallas area for about 7 years, but I was born and raised in Aurora, Colorado. After college, I
lived in Wuhan, China for two years teaching English. Later, after earning my MFA in nonfiction, I lived with my grandma on her farm in southeast Colorado for over a year. I went through a bit of culture shock when I moved to Dallas from her farm to start my career! I’m very close to my family. My parents still live in Colorado, but my two sisters live with their families in Oklahoma, so I see them often.
How are you going to help us from your position as Communications Coordinator? Are you going to attract more people to events, for example?
Great question! Stonebridge Ranch already has the tools in place to share information across multiple platforms. It’s great that residents can choose which format works best for them. Part of my work will be to further refine how these tools are used, ensuring that residents know where, when and how to access the information they need. In regards to attracting residents to groups and events, certainly my job is one of providing accurate details. But more importantly, in my writing I want you to feel the excitement of upcoming events. And if you aren’t able to attend a group or event, I want you to feel like you were there through the stories I report. I look forward to meeting many of you as I attend events to take pictures, gather quotes and record the life and stories of Stonebridge Ranch. F
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bIt s & pI eces Scott Albert’s Long Path to Stonebridge by Erica Lee When Scott Albert, the newly hired SRCA Director of Operations, was a student at the University of Texas in Dallas, he initially saw himself going into finance. But one final elective his senior year changed everything. The course was titled “Practicing Texas Politics” and included a guest speaker who gave a presentation regarding city management. Of that moment, Scott says, “It was my light bulb moment. I thought ‘What a great job’ that would be!” So he stayed an extra year to complete the extra coursework to earn his degree in Public Administration and Affairs. At the time he graduated, Plano, Texas, was one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Hired to work in the City Manager’s office, Scott was able to practice oversight of everything from city parks to policy development and public works. “I worked with Plano for 4 years,” Scott says, “and my final goal was to become a city manager.” His hard work paid off, and he was first hired as a city manager for Springtown, Texas, and later for Fairview, Texas. “Fairview was in the growth corridor,” he says. “When I started, there was nothing but a post office box and a few houses. But today, there is nothing in Fairview that doesn’t have my fingerprints on it.” The Vision Plan for commercial development, which he helped author there,
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even won a national award from the American Planning Institute. After such close-to-home early steps, Scott’s career ultimately took a drastic turn. Upon the suggestion of a friend, he moved overseas, serving for one year as the Public Financial Advisor in the Fallujah District of Iraq, embedded with the U.S. Marines. His job was to identify projects that would improve the quality of life of the local people while also improving the local economy. “I had never been in a war zone before,” Scott says, raising his eyebrows and smiling in a way that indicates he recalls a wealth of stories behind that statement. “But my first stint was so enjoyable because we accomplished so much in a single year.” As one example of a myriad of projects he oversaw in that first year, Scott led the effort in rehabbing 28 water-works facilities, including replacing lines made of asbestos with non-toxic lines. “We had 75 percent of those 28 projects completed within six months,” Scott says. “It was incredible, the effort. And by that time, [the work] was in my blood.” Eventually Scott would spend 5 years across Iraq and Afghanistan, serving in different positions, agencies and provinces. His duties included everything from training local government officials how to plan and implement budgets to meeting with local tribal warlords to establish relationships. Of the project he is most proud, he names rehabbing a hospital in the eastern Afghanistan province of Bati Kot. “My first day in that health clinic, I walked through the door, took my helmet off, and noticed a little girl holding her infant sibling. The baby had died of malnutrition. And that’s when you know your job really is about doing what you can to improve the quality of people’s lives. We went on to expand the hospital, adding a labor and delivery room and washing equipment, bringing in basic drugs and supplies, and making sure the infrastructure was in place to keep the electricity on.”
bIts & pIe ces
Though he loved his work, eventually the exhaustion and intensity of the environment did take its toll. One of Scott’s best friends, an Egyptian national who had trained with him in Washington, DC, before they both went to Iraq, was killed by a suicide bomber. “My family was missing me, too, and so it was just time to come home,” he says. Initially, Scott pursued a return to city management. But most positions he found would take him away from Collin County, which he considers home and where he wanted to stay. One day, as he was helping his newly graduated daughter research job opportunities online, he saw a job listing for a position with CMA (the management organization serving Stonebridge Ranch) “pop up” on a web
page. It caught his eye, and he laughs, remembering, “I think it was just meant to be.” Of his position as Director of Operations for such a large managed community, Scott says, “It’s somewhat like running a city, given that I’m helping residents and working with a governing body. But there’s an element of hospitality to my job, too, that wasn’t there before.” Among the top qualities of the SRCA that he’s noted so far, Scott says, “I’ve been very impressed with the people I’ve worked with on the board and committees. They have a very high level of commitment to the association and to maintaining the quality of life of their neighbors. And I’m not just saying this; I’ve seen it. When you know these people are all volunteers, and you see how much time they put into serving, you know you couldn’t ask for more.” Scott is excited to help with the Civic Plaza project that is moving forward this year since “I’ve built out projects my entire life.” But he’s also eager to help the association establish a vision for where it will be in the next 10 to 20 years. “I prefer to be proactive rather than reactive,” he says. “I also just like meeting new people and listening to their stories. Traveling overseas taught me that the world isn’t as big as I thought it was. I grew as a person because I gained tolerance. I gained confidence in myself and respect for others.” He is eager to serve Stonebridge Ranch much in the same way he served the people in communities overseas. “I could sit in a room with local Afghans, take off my body armor, eat with them and it felt like we’ve been friends forever.” F
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complIance tI p s Compliance and Your Furry Friends by Nate Russell Pets running around a village can be frustrating to any homeowner. That is why the City of McKinney has a leash law in effect providing that no dog or cat can leave any home or fenced backyard area without being leashed and accompanied by its owner. Each owner is responsible for removing animal feces. This applies to cats as well. Cats who wander around the villages are prone to get into trash and have been known to tear up other residents’ porch furniture. Any complaints regarding animal noise or animals running around without owners should be directed to the City of McKinney Animal Control office at 972.547.7445. If you want to build a home for your furry friend, all you need to do is review the guidelines on our website at www. stonebridgeranch.com. All of our design guidelines are listed online for any project you want to begin. You do not have to submit a modification application for a doghouse as long as you follow the guidelines. Some key pointers on doghouses are: • They can only be in the rear or side yard. • Your doghouse cannot be bigger than 15 square feet. • If you have a doghouse, it has to be behind a 6’ privacy fence or some other form of screen so it cannot be seen from the public right-of-way or golf courses. • You can only have one doghouse per lot. • Doghouses need to be of wood, plastic or resin construction. If you would like to build a dog run, you once again do not need to submit a modification application as long as the guidelines are followed. Here are a few points from the guidelines: • Your fence has to be 5’ or less. • You dog run needs to be smaller than 35 square feet. • If you have a dog run, it has to be behind a 6’ privacy fence or some other form of screen so it cannot be seen from the public right-of-way or golf courses. • You can only have one dog run per lot. • Your dog run needs to have a concrete slab and be cleaned often to avoid a foul smell. If you have any questions about pet guidelines or any other compliance issues, feel free to call us or come see us at the office. We’re here for you and would love to help with any concerns you may have. Please help us keep Stonebridge beautiful, and let’s keep our pets safe. Thank you for your compliance! F Rony Peterson, Nate Russell, Erica Peoples, Joyce Martin; CMA Compliance Coordinators, Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc.
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around the ranch
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lIfestyle McKinney Ladies Association
The final meeting of the 2015-16 MLA year will be hosted at Snug on the Square, 109 N. Kentucky St.! Join us on May 9, at 7 p.m., for a fun night of fellowship! Snug on the Square is a cozy, warm coffeehouse and cafe that specializes in oversize, made-to-order omelets, waffles, breakfast sandwiches and locally roasted coffee, as well as melts, homemade soups and salads for lunch. Local artists and musicians are featured in this wonderfully eclectic shop that features beautiful hardwood floors, an upstairs loft with couch seating and an outdoor patio with plenty of comfortable seating.
“Cruizin’ for a Cause”
Stonebridge United Methodist Church Men’s group will host their third annual “Cruizin’ For A Cause” car, truck and cycle show on Saturday, May 7 from 8 a.m. to noon. This year’s beneficiary will be Family Promise of Collin County. “Family Promise is truly a program of the community we live in. Its existence, strength and success lie within the support of local faith congregations, their volunteers and community volunteers,” said Sheila Miller, Director of Family Promise. “There is power in volunteers walking alongside a family struggling with homelessness; sharing a meal and conversation, allowing moments of normalcy; and providing a safe refuge where the families can truly rest. Every volunteer and donor who donates a gas card, cooks a meal, provides for immediate needs, or shares their lives with our guest families also share in that family’s success as they move back toward self-sustainable independence.” The Stonebridge UMC Men’s group, along with volunteers from the congregation, hosts the event. 100% of the funds raised will go directly to support Family Promise. Admission and registration are free and the show is open to all years, makes and models of cars, trucks and cycles. Registration will take place the morning of the show and the first 100 to register their vehicles will receive a commemorative dash plaque. Awards for show participants and door prizes will be given throughout the show. The event is free, but donations will be accepted. Be sure to come to the show hungry, as there will be on-site concessions available. For more information, visit www.mysumc.org and select “events”.
McKinney Area Newcomers Club
If you are new to the McKinney area, or you have had a lifestyle change, come join us for fun, information and friendship at our monthly Coffee Meeting. Every month we have great speakers, nice door prizes, tasty refreshments and lots of socializing with new friends. For more information on Newcomers, visit www.mckinneynewcomers.com. McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller will be giving a presentation to the McKinney Newcomers, which will focus on the overall state of McKinney, what is happening now, and the development of new projects for the city. Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, May 17, in the Eva Joplin Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 Virginia Pkwy. Social time with refreshments will begin at 9:30 a.m. F
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socIal scene College Mix and Mingle New event! The College Mix and Mingle welcomes home college students for the summer. It also gives incoming freshmen an opportunity to meet other Stonebridge Ranch residents who are currently attending their new college. This event will be held on the Veranda of the Beach Club on Thursday, May 26, from 7-9 pm. Admission is free and everyone is encouraged to wear a hat, t-shirt or any item with their college logo. Activities will include food, a DJ, free raffle drawings and a volleyball tournament. RSVP by May 19 at http://whoozin.com/6G3-WUQ-KJ4G to be entered into a special drawing. You need to be present to win. We need a minimum of 30 participants to be able to hold this event, so spread the word and invite your Stonebridge Ranch friends! Parents, we need your help to spread the word about this event. If you know of a college-bound student or one who is already attending college, could you send us your email so we can forward you an invitation? We really appreciate your help with this. We want to make sure everyone is invited. Thank you! Please email Dave Wiest, Lifestyle Director at dwiest@ cmamanagment.com
Coffee Talk Meeting every Wednesday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room.
TGIF Coffee Meeting every Friday from 1 to 2 p.m. in the Community Room. Our coffees are a great way to meet new neighbors. New to the area? This is a great place to get to know your new hometown. Have questions? We’re here to help answer them. Lived here awhile? Bring your neighbors! We would love to meet you! Coffee, tea, water and conversation are provided.
Playdate in the Park May 6 at 9 a.m. (note new time), Beach & Tennis Club Bubble day! Let’s play! Bottles of bubbles will be provided. Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2016
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socIal scene Check Stonebridgeranch.com front page for any last minute changes due to the weather.
Book Club During the May 9 meeting, you have an opportunity to discuss a book with the author himself, a Stonebridge Ranch resident, Mr. John Moulton. The book is called White Ashes. http://www.white-ashes.com. Meet us on May 9, at 7 p.m., in the Community Room. Check the calendar on the website for next month’s book. We’re always searching for new authors to read. Send book ideas to:cunnone@gmail.com
SBR 3rd Annual Recycling Event May 28, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club, 6201 Virginia Pkwy. Stonebridge Ranch is partnering again with United Electronic Recycling (UER) to help Reduce, Reuse & Recycle electronic equipment. Bring your old, broken, or unwanted electronic equipment, and UER will make sure it is properly recycled. This will be a great opportunity for spring cleaning. In addition to the electronic recycling, we will have a truck on-site for paper and document shredding. If you are a business with bulk amounts of material and would like to participate, please contact Jerry Walker at 214.864.9443 or jwalker@uerteam.com. At this event, we are also including a Blood Drive (Carter BloodCare), Food Drive (Samaritan Inn), Clothing Drive (Children’s Advocacy Center of Collin County) and a Red Kettle for cash donations to the Salvation Army. For more information about the Blood Drive and how you can help, go to https://ww2. greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_ schedule/62723. For details call David Wiest, dwiest@ cmamanagement.com. This event is for Stonebridge Ranch residents only and there is no charge for recycling any items.
Hook, Line & Sinker Children’s Fishing Tournament The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association would like to invite all of our junior anglers out to the 18th Annual Hook, Line & Sinker Children’s Fishing Tournament at Wellington Pond (first 3 ponds starting with the one closest to Stonebridge Drive) on Saturday, May 7. The tournament will be held from 9 to 11 a.m., with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. and the raffle drawing and awards presentation at 11 a.m. Trophies will be awarded to the children who catch the nine
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socIal scene biggest fish and the one smallest fish (any species). Other activities include a free raffle drawing for prizes and a hot dog cookout with refreshments. Anglers are responsible for bringing their own fishing pole. Bait will be supplied, but you may bring your own. Parents may help their children cast and bait the hook, but it is the child’s responsibility to set the hook and reel in the fish. Wellington Pond is located on Wellington Point Drive, which is located north of the corner of Stonebridge Drive and Glen Oaks Drive.
Summer Camps 2016 10 & Under
10 & Under tennis is an exciting new play format for learning tennis, designed to bring kids into the game by adapting the equipment, court dimensions and the scoring to the age and size of the children. 10 & Under tennis enables kids to have more enjoyable experiences early on in the learning process and having fun is the number one factor in keeping kids involved. Time: 10 to 11 a.m. $65 per week. Cost:
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. $85 per week Cost:
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 a.m. 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)
15th Annual Summer Spectacular Kid’s Camp
This camp is for kids ages 6-10 and includes tennis, swimming, arts and crafts and lunch Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost: $150 Date: July 25-28 Tennis Camp Dates: Week 1, June 6-9; Week 2, June 13-16; Week 3, June 20-23; Week 4, June 27-30; Week 5, July 5-8; Week 6, July 11-14; Week 7, July 18-21; Week 8, July 25-28; Week 9, August 1-4; Week 10, August 8-11; Week 11, August 15-18.
Camp Policies And Procedures
Due to inclement weather, Fridays will be used as make-up days for all camps. If you are uncertain whether Stonebridge Ranch News x May 2016
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socIal scene classes will be held or not due to inclement weather, a message will be posted on www.selecttennisadcaemy.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.
May Bingo Night Memorial Day at the Beach Club 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 11 a.m. 12 p.m. 12:45 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 2:15 p.m. 3:15 p.m.
UPTOWNSOUND (playing all of your favorite tunes) Text 214.491.8283 to request a song. Paddle Boat Races (lake) Bouncy Ball Races (volleyball court) Tug of War (volleyball court) Limbo Contest (volleyball court) Hula Hoop Contest (volleyball court) Sky High Prize Launching (pool)
ATTENTION!
On May 30, the Aquatic Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Beach Club pool will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with a DJ present from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Upcoming June Events 3 Playdate in the Park 6 Family Beach Club Pool Party 10 Evening on the Veranda 13 Book Club 13 Teen Mixer 14 Evening Bingo 16 Movie Night 18 Coffee, Cars & Conversation 21 Travel Club 23 Kid’s Splash Hop Walking Club—Mondays Coffee Talk—Wednesdays TGIF—Fridays
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It’s a great time to make new friends so please join us on Tuesday night, May 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. for an evening of Bingo and prizes in the Community Room located by the Beach Club entrance. Light snacks and refreshments will be served and please NO alcoholic beverages. We play a variety of bingo patterns and give away $5 gift cards to the winners. Register online at http://whoozin.com/3QU-AH4-VKVY This is an adult only event and there is no charge for Stonebridge residents and a $5 guest fee for immediate family non-residents.
Evening on the Veranda Looking for a relaxing way to end a busy week? Perhaps a local spot where you can enjoy the outdoors, listen to some great music, and sip your favorite wine? Grab your folding chair and join us at the Beach and Tennis Club on the second Friday in May for Evening on the Veranda. Pack your favorite libation; grab a neighbor, group of friends, your spouse or a date on Friday, May 13, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. with Corner Pocket. Corner Pocket specializes in jazz, Latin, swing and blues standard. Glass containers are prohibited, so be sure to purchase aluminum or plastic containers. Line up a babysitter! This is an adult only, non-swimming, smoke-free event and you must be 21 years to enter. Light snacks, sodas and water will be available. Gates open at 7 p.m. and live music begins at 7:30 p.m. Photo ID is required and there is a $5 fee for nonresident guests.
Coffee, Cars & Conversation Join us for refreshments at our upcoming Coffee, Cars & Conversation! SB Residents Only Saturday, May 21 at 8:30 a.m., SBR Beach and Tennis Club Coffee, water and donuts will be provided. Bring your classic/fancy car to park in the circular drive! F