Stonebridge Ranch News November 2016

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS November 2016

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Vol. 4, Issue 11

Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 5

From the President

by Jon Dell’Antonia

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This Month’s Feature

12 Lifestyle 14

Compliance Tips

16

Community Calendar

25

Around the Ranch

26

Social Scene

SPECIAL SECTIONS 13

Resident Interest

18

In the News

20

Landscape & Grounds

24

Bits and Pieces

30

Pet Page

18

Stonebridge Ranch News © 2016 is published by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. It is produced at no cost to the association and mailed to all Stonebridge Ranch residents free of charge.

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 Barbara Geiger Erica Lee Cheryl Scheuren David Wiest

cover photo Mike Cawley It’s official! With the cutting of the Grand Opening ribbon, Stonebridge Plaza is now available for use by residents.

Board Meeting, September 22, 2016

We celebrated the grand opening of Stonebridge Plaza on Saturday, September 17. Several hundred homeowners attended the ceremony. If you have not seen it, you should stop by and take a look at our newest amenity.

The Board meeting of September 22 was called to order at 12:55 p.m. All Board members were present.

The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum.

Three homeowners appeared: one to discuss flag guidelines, one to ask about garage sales (we do not permit them), and one to inquire about their account.

The next item of business was to ratify the minutes of the previous Board meeting and all decisions made since the last Board meeting.

Old Business

The Board approved the design guidelines and annexation document for a new subdivision, Sorrento, which is located at the corner of Stonebridge Drive and Eldorado Parkway. The new village will have 34 homes in it.

The Board received an update on the slope failure of the dam located to the west of the Beach Club office. The slope failure is not dangerous and does not pose a flooding threat because it is above the flood stage water level, but it does need to be repaired.

On our regular schedule of reviewing Board governing documents, we reviewed and updated our Covenant and fining policy, our collection and payment plan policies, Collection Committee guidelines, and commitment and disbursement policies. We also adopted revised guidelines on supplier and contractor insurance requirements.

New Business

The Board reviewed information presented by a homeowner concerning some wet, muddy areas in the common area of Stratford Manor. We are investigating the cause to determine what solution can be implemented.

We renewed the Directors and Officers liability insurance coverage. We also discussed some potential changes to the Stonebridge Ranch monthly magazine. No action was taken.

Executive Session

The Board received an update from its legal counsel on several continuing issues.

We reviewed six violations presented to the Board for review and made appropriate decisions: one for deviation from approved plans, one for playground equipment in the front yard, one for exterior maintenance, two for landscape, and one for a driveway that exceeds guidelines.

The Board approved the establishment of an Appeals Committee consisting of three Board members to act on behalf of the Board to make decisions about violation appeals to improve the response time to homeowners. The Board also reviewed and approved the foreclosure report.

We also approved the hiring of a Recreational Porter to assist with maintenance and social setup activities.

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.

CFO Partridge and Treasurer Counts presented the financials including the Management Report, Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Variance Report, A/R Summary, Investment Schedule, Investment Performance History and the Rate of Return Report Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in Committee minutes. We also reviewed Strategic plan updates. The meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m.

Jon Dell’Antonia President

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

Association Staff Pam Grundy—Director of Operations Angie Beené—Compliance Coordinator Michael Cawley—Maintenance Supervisor Tamra Collins—Community Services Coordinator Sandra Gillespie—Compliance Coordinator Erica Lee—Communications Coordinator Joyce Martin—M.A.R.C. Compliance Coordinator Rony Peterson—Executive Assistant Michelle Pryor—Compliance Coordinator Lynette Rowell—Administrative Assistant Nate Russell—Senior Compliance Coordinator Jeff Torres—Maintenance Assistant David Wiest—Lifestyle Director

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 New Plaza Now Open for Use by Residents

As Board President Jon Dell’Antonia cut the grand opening ribbon, Board Director Don Hanson and members of the Amenities and Social Committees looked on.

Located at 7501 Coronado Drive adjacent to the Aquatic Center, our newest amenity, Stonebridge Plaza, has turned an empty field into a gathering place for residents of all ages. For members of the Amenities Committee and the

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Board of Directors, seeing the project come to life is the result of many volunteer hours of discussion, research and planning. Rich Krukar, chair of the Amenities Committee, has worked the project since the beginning, and he’s proud

thIs month’ s feature

The party juggler practiced his unicycling skills near the new food truck area, where residents gathered to eat hot dogs and hamburgers. to see the completion. “I’m excited. It was a time-consuming project, but it was always fun.”

The very first steps of the project took place late in 2013, when the Amenities Committee began brainstorming ideas about how the empty field might be transformed, prompted in part by suggestions from residents for its use. In the early phases of their research, committee members visited other communities and chatted with real estate developers to compare our portfolio of amenities, looking for possible ways to expand it. Rich notes that a wide variety of ideas were discussed, from simple to complex, including elaborate water park features. “But for each idea, there is so much to consider,” Rich says. “On a project like this, we had to keep in mind all the constraints, such as the shape and size of the land itself, the cost of the build, and the cost of maintaining the amenity over time.” Further, Rich says, “We kept in mind what the city is building, too—of competition for the use of amenities.” He references the 80,000-square-foot aquatic and fitness center now under construction in McKinney. “It’s just down the road,” says Rich, noting that upon its completion, it will dwarf any new water feature that would be possible under the association’s budget.

In working with the Board of Directors through the process, ultimately, Rich says, “We all wanted to build something unusual, that we didn’t already have. But we also wanted it to be useful, something residents could use year-round.” Through 2014, the committee solicited design bids and brought their recommendations to the Board. By January of 2015, designs were being reviewed in relation to the feasibility of cost and wise use of existing resources.

“It can seem like a long time between the first idea and moving forward with construction,” says Rich. “But once we had a single idea in mind, then we had to work with the city Stonebridge Ranch News x November 2016

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thIs month’ s feature

The dry deck fountain at the center of the plaza proved irresistible to young residents. to make sure our plans met ordinances and restrictions.” He smiles, “There are so many steps. We had ground surveys done to see what was underneath, making sure there were no utilities or hard rock that would impede construction or raise costs. We looked at drainage and how we’d need to reshape the land. It’s all very elaborate.” When the Amenities Committee members had the chance to look at the final prints, “We were all amazed,” Rich says.

Don Hanson, Board Director and liaison to the Amenities Committee, agrees. During his career prior to his retirement, Don worked on many impressive construction projects, including builds that cost up to $100 million.

Though he was elected to the Board after the plans for the plaza had been approved, his insight during the construction phase has been invaluable. In the end, Don recalls, “so many people have been involved in this project, from the Amenities Committee to all the Board members. As they say, it takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a village to build a park!”

Like Don, Rich is excited to have seen the project to At the opening party, young residents took turns practicing plate spinning with the help of a juggler.

Residents of all ages were on hand at the Grand Opening to inaugurate the new pickleball courts.

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fruition. “Our major amenities, like the Beach Club and Aquatic Center, are seasonal. This is the first big thing we’ve built that can be used by residents of all ages year-round.” He imagines families using the area for picnics and children riding bikes and playing. Now, he adds, “I’m really looking forward to how residents will use the plaza going forward. We’ve built it, and now we are saying, ‘Here, this is yours.’” F

thIs month’ s feature

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lIfestyle St. Gabriel’s Holiday Boutique, Arts & Crafts Show Don’t miss this incredible shopping opportunity on Saturday, November 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at St. Gabriel Community Center, 110 St. Gabriel Way. Sponsored by the Women’s Club, there will be over 80 artisans displaying and selling unique items—all handcrafted. There will be a raffle of vendor items throughout the day. A delicious snack bar and lunch will be available and a Bake Sale Booth sponsored by the Women’s Club. This is a great place to start your holiday shopping or to find that special item you can’t resist. Admission to this event is FREE! Donation of a canned good for Thanksgiving baskets is welcome.

For additional information, check out www.stgabriel. org/holidayboutique.

Dinosaurs Seemingly Return to Life at the Heard Museum From September 17 to February 19, 2017, visitors to Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary will be able to let their imagination run wild as they travel back in time. During the eleventh annual Dinosaurs Live!

Life-Size Animatronic Dinosaurs exhibit, ten life-size animatronic dinosaurs come to life along a half-mile nature trail. These animatronic dinosaurs move and roar, providing a captivating experience for visitors who will also learn interesting facts about both herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaurs. Children will have the opportunity to play on static baby dinosaurs and on a photo-op pachyrhinosaurus.

The exhibit trail is jogging stroller friendly (umbrella strollers not recommended), giving families and friends a unique, exciting and educational activity to experience together.

McKinney Area Newcomers Club Join us for information and friendship at our monthly Coffee Meeting on the third Tuesday of each month. On November 15, Lori Burke, owner of Lori Lynn Designs, will give a presentation on Interior Design trends including: seven deadly sins of decor review; color palettes for walls and furnishings; art without borders; accessories and finishing touches; and resources for updating. We meet in the Eva Joplin Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 Virginia Parkway. Social time with refreshments begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the meeting at 10 a.m. For more information on Newcomers, visit www.mckinneynewcomers.com. F

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resIdent Interest First Disaster Declaration Deemed A Success In February and March of this year, many homes in our community were damaged by hail and high winds during a succession of volatile storms. In the aftermath, homeowners were faced with making exterior repairs and replacing roofs and fencing. Association leaders realized the Modification Committee would soon begin receiving an influx of modification applications.

In response, on March 22, 2016, Board President Jon Dell’Antonia issued the first Disaster Declaration under the Stonebridge Ranch Disaster Recovery Plan. The plan provides a basic emergency process to guide the association in helping homeowners face common North Texas perils. “This is not a drill,” Jon noted to management staff. “Because of the storms last week and the potential damage that may have occurred, I am issuing a disaster declaration for the purposes of quickly responding to homeowners’ submissions.”

The Communications Committee promptly informed homeowners of the declaration through email blasts and the association website at www.stonebridgeranch.com.

Meanwhile, the Modifications Committee initiated a special task force and went to work. Applications noted as relating to storm damage were reviewed within two business days by Compliance Coordinator Angie Beené and by Ron Ferris, vice

president of the Board and liaison to the Modifications Committee. (Normally, the all-volunteer Modifications Committee meets every two weeks and reviews applications within 7 to 14 business days.)

“Through April to August, we received over 200 stormrelated applications,” says Ron, “and most were approved in less than 24 hours.” He is proud that the response of the Board and the appropriate committees worked so well, given that this is the first time the plan was put into action.

“I want to give the compliance team and Modifications Committee credit, because we met our objective. We wanted to make sure that we didn’t slow any homeowners down, and we didn’t. Many commented how helpful we were in our response.”

In all, homeowners from 34 villages submitted applications for damage related to roofing, fencing, gutters, windows and landscaping. Though expedited response to storm-related applications was originally set to last through April 30, 2016, Ron notes, “We weren’t the only area hit during the storms.” The widespread damage led to a shortage of supplies and contractors. Again, the Board responded to meet homeowner’s needs, extending the declaration several times and eventually closing it at the end of August. F

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complIance tI p s Mailboxes: Upkeep Can Be More Complicated Than You Think Though mailboxes are ubiquitous throughout Stonebridge Ranch, their upkeep can be more complicated than a homeowner might anticipate. This was true for Diane B., a resident of Stonebridge Ranch whose mother also lives here. In July, a caregiver who regularly visits Diane’s mother accidentally backed her car into the mother’s mailbox. “She just clipped it,” says Diane, “but it took brick off the bottom of my mother’s box and also moved the neighbor’s mailbox.”

For Diane, helping her mother repair the damaged mailboxes was a process with several unexpected hurdles.

Finding the best mason to repair the damage was the most surprising difficulty of all. “It was hard to even get bids,” says Diane. “We got some references from friends,” she adds, but she found that none of them were interested in the project.

Feeling frustrated and not sure where to turn, Diane called the association office. By this point, the compliance coordinator assigned the village, Michelle Pryor, had also sent a first violation notice to the address requesting repair of the mailbox.

“I wanted Michelle to know we were working on it,” says Diane. “She was very nice, and she placed a hold on the account and asked me to keep her posted.” Diane also asked Michelle if the association could provide a list of possible contractors to

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make the repair. “I often receive phone calls asking for this type of information,” Michelle says, sympathetic. However, the association does not manage such a list due to conflict of interest and liability issues.

Ultimately, Diane found a contractor and both mailboxes were repaired. She called Michelle to let her know. Michelle values such proactive contact from residents. “Sometimes homeowners will call us if their mailbox has been hit. They let us know they are taking care of it before we issue them a notice,” she says. “We really appreciate when they do,” she adds, noting that it can save time and frustration for the homeowner if staff is able to place a preemptive hold on the account and never needs to issue a first violation notice.

If your mailbox is hit by a vehicle, or is leaning due to age (another common mailbox issue seen in our community), Michelle offers a few more tips based on common questions she’s received.

1. The association does not repair or replace mailboxes.

Mailbox upkeep is the responsibility of the homeowner.

2. If your mailbox has been toppled and you need help with bulk debris removal, contact the city through Progressive Waste Services at 469.452.8000.

complIance tI ps

Mailboxes that lean indicate the need for repair or replacement.

3. If you need to replace your mailbox, a modification application is not required as long as you adhere to the original design and follow requirements as outlined in the Design Guidelines. However, as always, please call 214.733.5800 if you any compliance-related questions. F

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November 8 november 14 november 17 november 17 november 19

november 19 november 19

bingo 7 p.m. (cr) book club 7 p.m. (cr) morning bingo 10 a.m. (cr) western volvo night 5:30 p.m. coffee, cars & conversation 8:30 a.m. (BTC) playdate in the park 9 a.m. (btc) adult big bass tournament 9 a.m. (btc)

Coffee Talk, 8:30

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

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

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

Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)

MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR)

Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR)

Landscape and G Committee, 7 p.

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.

Amenities Committee Meeting, 7 p.m. (BR)

Bingo 7 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Strolle

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

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

Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR)

Social Committe noon (BR)

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)

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

Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC)

MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

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

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Coffee Talk, 8:3

Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

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

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

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Coffee Talk, 8:30

9:30-10:30 am—Strolle

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

0 a.m. (CR)

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

r Strides (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

nnis Classes, my (BTC)

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

0 a.m. (CR)

Grounds .m. (BR)

er Strides (BTC)

TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

nnis Classes, emy (BTC)

0 a.m. (CR)

Morning Bingo 10 a.m. (CR)

ee Meeting,

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

r Strides (BTC)

nis Classes, my (BTC)

0 a.m. (CR)

Western Volvo Night, 5:30 p.m.

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

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Playdate in the Park, 9 a.m.

(BTC) Adult Big Bass Tournament 9 a.m. (BTC)

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

SRCA Offices Closed

Coffee, Cars & Conversation 8:30 a.m. (BTC)

SRCA Offices Closed

30 a.m. (CR)

er Strides (BTC)

nnis Classes, my (BTC)

Stonebridge StonebridgeRanch RanchNews Newsx November x November2016 2016

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In the news Community Entry at Custer Road and Stonebridge Drive Soon to be Refurbished As part of the Strategic Master Plan initiated by the Board of Directors, a key component is the landscape and grounds strategy, which calls for refreshing “common area medians, parkways and entrances in a manner that preserves and enhances the quality and natural beauty of Stonebridge Ranch.”

Under the umbrella of this strategy, one key action item focuses on the refurbishment of the highest volume entrances to the community. Phase I of the action item was completed in 2015, when the entry with the highest volume of traffic —Virginia Parkway near Ridge Road—received a major facelift with hardscaping refurbishment as well as updated landscaping.

Now, construction on Phase II of this action item, the refurbishment of the entry with our second-highest volume of traffic—Custer Road and Stonebridge Drive—is soon to begin.

(Indeed, by the time this November issue of Stonebridge Ranch News reaches your doorstep, it may have already commenced.)

Tom George, Board Director and liaison to the Landscape & Grounds Committee, has been instrumental in the planning of this project from the beginning. “The main focus of the refurbishment,” he says, “has always been to update and enhance the planter box and monument in the median, as well as the surrounding landscaping.” Ultimately, the fresh look at this key entry to our community is planned to include the following components.

1. A new monument sign will be installed in the same location as the former monument. The design of the new sign is consistent with other monuments installed in Stonebridge Ranch, such as those found at the Virginia and Fountainview entrances. The sign will be made of cast stone, and it will feature capped columns at each end.

2. The brick planter box will be refurbished, correcting cracks and mortar issues. Tom notes that as part of this redesign, as much of the original brick as possible will be reused in order to protect visual consistency.

3. Barring any complication, the existing mature trees in the median will be protected. Tom points out that the crape myrtles and vitex trees are a valuable asset to the entrance, adding color and a tie-in to the tree canopy throughout the community.

4. The planter box below the monument sign will be lowered to match the height of the east side of the planter box. No longer will the planter box be a rising, three-tiered design, with the highest tier nearest to the intersection. The highest tier will be lowered to remove eye focus at the car level from the former brick wall and to improve overall visibility.

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In the news

The crape myrtles and vitex trees in the median are planned to be protected as part of the Custer Road entrance refurbishment.

5. Two matching obelisks will be installed on either side of Stonebridge Drive. These are a visually impressive part of the design and serve as focal points in the surrounding landscaping.

6. All lighting and irrigation on the northeast corner and median will be new.

7. A sidewalk will be added on the north side of the street.

This will provide a walkway connection not previously available to pedestrians.

8. The last component to install will be the landscaping on the

north side of the street. New species of ground cover will be planted along with flowering perennials. Importantly, depending on weather and when the hardscaping is completed, the association may wait until the spring to install any new plantings, which will increase their chance of survival.

9. The association does not own the land at the southeast corner of Custer Road and Stonebridge Drive. Thus, once the project is complete, the landscape will differ on either side of the street. F

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landscape & grounds Where Are All The Bradford Pear Trees Going? of life here. Our residents enjoy a variety of species, such as proud, shade-giving Texas red oaks and live oaks, colorful crape myrtles, and drought-tolerant cedar elms, all of which are listed on the City of McKinney’s approved Quality Trees list.

Not listed with these quality trees is another species commonly found here in our community: the Bradford pear. In the early years of construction in Stonebridge Ranch, developers favored the inclusion of Bradford pear trees as an ornamental choice. Not only is the species fast growing, but Bradford pears flower impressively in the spring, notable for their Due to brittle wood and other factors, aged Bradford pear limbs are susceptible to breakage. shimmering white blooms.

Lovely as they may be in their youth, as Bradford pears As one of the oldest and largest associations in North age, issues arise related to safety and the maintenance Texas, Stonebridge Ranch is home to one of the most mature required for their upkeep. Joel Barton, an arborist for and wide-spread tree canopies as well. Instantly noticeable to Precision Landscape Management (which oversees a portion first-time visitors, trees are an important thread in the fabric

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landscape & grounds of our common area) says: “About two or three years ago, we began to notice the aging of these trees throughout Stonebridge Ranch. Many are 25 to 30 years old, and that’s old for a Bradford pear. Most don’t make it to 35 without falling apart.”

Today, with the help of our landscape managers, the association proactively removes any Bradford pear tree that presents a possible hazard to residents or property. A valuable asset to our community as a whole, trees provide noticeable beauty, shade and familiarity. Therefore, as the association works to maintain its mature tree canopy, the complexities of care include a sensitivity to the emotion people often attach to trees. Board Director Tom George, liaison to the Landscape & Grounds Committee, outlines four important points related to our Bradford pear removal program.

1. The association works to remove unhealthy and potentially hazardous Bradford pears which are nearing the end of their life cycle. “We are not working to remove all Bradford pears throughout Stonebridge Ranch at this time,” says Tom. Rather, landscaping staff will keep a close eye on existing Bradford pear trees to maintain them as long as possible.

2. The association works with the city arborist to comply with all ordinances. Within Stonebridge Ranch, tree replacement requirements are governed by the original Stonebridge Ranch zoning plan for screening and buffering, which outlines how many trees are required per linear foot along parkways and how many may be ornamental. Projects

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landscape & grounds beyond regular maintenance, such as a major entrance renovation, include detailed communication with the city landscape architect.

3. When a Bradford pear is removed and replaced, the association does not replant the species. The association plants only species listed as quality trees approved by the city and listed on the approved landscape palette for Stonebridge Ranch. Over time, this means the Bradford pear will be phased out from the community.

4. Not all removed Bradford pears are replaced. As noted, the association works to replace all applicable trees as required by the original zoning plan for our community. In cases where existing trees are too crowded, or where areas of ground cover need more light to grow, trees that are not required may not be replaced.

Beyond the work of the association to maintain the trees in our common areas, ongoing tree maintenance is often a concern for homeowners as well. Creating and protecting a mature tree canopy is a collective effort on the part of neighbors and association volunteers and staff alike. The governing documents outline yard specifications for residences, which include tree requirements. These guidelines vary between villages. If you are a homeowner considering removing and replacing a tree in your yard, the association requires you to submit a Modification Application before doing so.

If you have any questions about the trees at your residence, or replacement requirements, please don’t hesitate

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Crape myrtle trees, which can be found throughout Stonebridge Ranch, are noted on the City of McKinney’s Quality Tree list. to call the association office at 214.733.5800. We’ll connect you with a compliance staff member who can help explain the requirements and walk you through the application process. F

bIt s & pI eces Early Stonebridge Ranch Marketing Documents Recently Discovered Recently, a resident came across a treasure trove of marketing documents from the early days of Stonebridge Ranch and passed them along to the association. Many of

the documents are almost thirty years old. They provide not only a look at our community in its infancy, but also a reminder of life as it was in the late 1980s. Though much has changed here and in our world since construction first began over 28 years ago, many of the community qualities that early residents enjoyed remain the same.

Here are just a few excerpts from this luckily-found time capsule. F

Some things have changed drastically since the early days of Stonebridge Ranch, such as the fashions worn by residents and the style of cars.

Even more true now than when it was written, this excerpt from an early brochure points out the wide variety of home styles available in our community.

One of the earliest maps of the community shows the first five villages and many wide open spaces.

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around the ranch

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socIal scene Bingo Night It’s a great time to make new friends! Join us on Tuesday, November 8, from 7 to 9 p.m., for an adultsonly evening of Bingo and prizes. We’ll play in the Community Room located at the Beach Club (6201 Virginia Parkway). Light snacks and refreshments will be served; please, no alcoholic beverages. Seating is limited to the first 40 who sign up online: http:// whoozin.com/ETR-6JD-UYDA. Residents play for free and may bring up to one non-resident guest; each guest pays a $5 fee.

Book Club

Come join us on November 14 at 7 p.m., as we casually discuss the following books: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon, and The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson. You can choose to read one or both selections. You are welcome to sit in even if you haven’t read the books. We’ll meet in the Community Room at the Beach Club (6201 Virginia Parkway). Check the calendar on the website for the next month’s book. Send book ideas to: dwiest@ cmamanagement.com.

Morning Bingo It’s a great time to make new friends! Join us on November 17, from 10 a.m. to noon, for an adults-only morning of Bingo and prizes. We’ll play in the Community Room located at the Beach Club (6201 Virginia Parkway).

Light snacks and refreshments will be served; please, no

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socIal scene alcoholic beverages. Seating is limited to the first 40 who sign up online: http://whoozin.com/TW6-MEM-MDUA. Residents play for free and may bring up to one non-resident guest; each guest pays a $5 fee.

Volvo Western Casino Night Stonebridge residents are invited to a free Western Casino Night on November 17, from 5:30 to 9 p.m., sponsored by Volvo of Dallas, 2701 North Central Expressway, Plano (located on the west side of 75 service road between Park and Parker).

Look for the big white tent.

Help celebrate Thanksgiving with a complimentary evening of music, casino games (no cost), door prizes (TVs, tablets, etc.), food and drinks. No sales pitch—just fun. Plus, register to win a new Volvo lease to be given away in December. Please RSVP by November 10 to rsvp@ volvoofdallas.com to let them know you are coming. See their Facebook page for pictures of past events. Valet parking will be provided at the back of the building. This will be Stonebridge Ranch’s fourth year to offer this event to residents.

Adult Big Bass Tournament Calling all Stonebridge Ranch adult anglers! Join us on Saturday, November 19, from 9 a.m. to noon, for an exciting morning of fishing and prizes. Our competition will take place at Lake Stonebridge at 6201 Virginia Parkway. No other lakes in Stonebridge Ranch are permitted for judging as part of this tournament. The entry free is $10 per person and must be paid in cash (no pre-registration). Entrants must be at least 18 years or older. Only paid, adult contestants (no spectators or children) are allowed to fish during the tournament hours.

Entrants: The tournament is open to Stonebridge Ranch residents only. ID or a valid driver’s license is required.

Registration is from 8:30 to 9 a.m. at the Beach Club. After check-in, fishermen may proceed to any part of Lake Stonebridge to fish (no casting before 9 a.m.), except through the Beach Club gates or on private property.

Rules: Fishing is permitted from the bank only; wading, tubes and boats are NOT allowed. Fishermen may carry several rods, but may only fish with one at a time. Only artificial bait is allowed (no live bait). The big bass will be determined by length, not weight. The fish will be measured with the jaw closed and the tail pinched to obtain maximum overall length.

Weigh-In: Final weigh-in will be held at noon, although fish may be brought in the judges’ table to be measured at any Stonebridge Ranch News x November 2016

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socIal scene time during tournament hours. Fish must be brought in alive and breathing at weigh-in. Participants will be given a stringer, weigh-in bag and should only bring their ONE biggest fish to the weigh-in. All contestants who are not in line by noon to weigh fish will be disqualified. The tournament judge will give all participants the official time the morning of the event. Fish are returned live to the lake at the end of the tournament.

Prize: 1st prize will receive 100% of all entry fees. In the event of a tie, the prize money will be split.

Coffee, Cars & Conversation Join us in the circular drive at the Beach & Tennis Club on Saturday, November 19, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., for Coffee, Cars & Conversation. If you have a classic or fancy car you may park it in the circular drive for all to view. If not, come out to meet new friends or neighbors. Coffee and donuts will be provided.

Playdate in the Park Let’s play! We’ll be at the Beach & Tennis playground (6201 Virginia Parkway) on Saturday, November 19 at 9 a.m. Parents, please check the Stonebridgeranch.com homepage for any last minute changes due to the weather.

Weekly Meet-Ups The Walking Club meets on Mondays at 9 a.m. (note the new winter time) in the upper parking lot near the Beach Club.

Coffee Talk meets on Wednesdays from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room. TGIF Coffee meets at 1 to 2 p.m. on Fridays in the Community Room.

17th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Bring your family to this magical annual event! We’re gathering at the association office and circular drive at 6201 Virginia Parkway on Thursday, December 1. Don’t forget your camera to take your child’s picture with Santa! Other activities include horse and carriage rides, a petting zoo, storytelling, refreshments, a Christmas DJ, and costumed entertainers such as a Toy Soldier, Frosty the Snowman and the Grinch. We’ll also have a Santa’s mailbox. Prep ahead so your child can bring a letter for Santa to take back to the North Pole.

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Admission to this event is free and open to Stonebridge Ranch residents. Activities will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

The Tree Lighting ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Donations in the form of unwrapped gifts will be collected and given to the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Our goal this year is to receive 200 donated gifts from the SRCA residents.

We will also be accepting non-perishable food donations. If you cannot attend the event and would like to donate a gift or a canned good, the association office will accept items until December 16. Visit us at 6201 Virginia Parkway, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. F

Upcoming December Events 1

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Tree Lighting Ceremony & photos with Santa Book Club Evening Bingo Coffee, Cars & Conversation Playdate in the Park Travel Club

Walking Club—Mondays Coffee Talk—Wednesdays TGIF—Fridays

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”Sharlene” of Texas on September 1. Sharlene has been spayed, microchipped and has received all ageappropriate vaccinations. She just knows you could be besties! Come meet her today - you won’t regret it! #148260

”Buster” Meow! Buster is a 6-year-old, mostly white with black Domestic Shorthair mix. He weighs 13 pounds, but is working on achieving his goal weight of 10 pounds with a diet.

Meet Sharlene, a 2-year-old, 50-pound hound mix. She has sassy red fur and her tail is always wagging. Her ears flop over, but they perk up when you talk to her. She’s a great listener! She’s also smart—she can sit on command. She was transferred from another shelter to the SPCA

His disposition is very sweet, but he’s shy with strangers. Once he warms up to you, he is very loving and affectionate. When he plays, he is gentle and likes to bat at little toys! He also likes having a window he can look out. He would adore being in a home with a family that he can bond with and love for the rest of his days.

Buster has been neutered, tested for FIV/FeLV (he’s negative), microchipped and has received age-appropriate vaccinations. When you come to meet him, just ask for Buster! #47013 Sharlene and Buster are waiting for you at the SPCA of Texas’ Russell H. Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney at 8411 Stacy Road.

Call 214-742-SPCA (7722) or visit today. F

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