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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
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NOVEMBER 2015 Vol. 3, Issue 11
Contents 7
IN EVERY ISSUE 5
From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia
7
In the News
18
by Sherine George
10
This Month’s Feature by Sherine George
14 www.stonebridgeranch.com by Sherine George
16
Community Calendar
18
Compliance Tips by Nate Russell
22 Lifestyle 24
From Your Neighbor
25
Around the Ranch by Jeff Torres
26
Social Scene
SPECIAL SECTIONS 13
Bits and Pieces
20
Resident Interest
23
Your Home
30
Pet Page
Stonebridge Ranch News © 2015 is published by Moonlight Graphics. All rights reserved. It is individually mailed free of charge to all residents of Stonebridge Ranch. Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807. Visit www.allenimage.com.
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from the presIdent STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
Our Community Room is being expanded and updated We approved a construction bid to expand the Community Room to accommodate increased usage. The expanded room will have a front entrance, two bathrooms, be ADA compliant and nearly twice as large as the existing room. Construction is expected to be complete by spring.
September 22 Board Meeting
publisher/editor Barbara Peavy
office administrator Carrie McCormick
contributing writers Jon Dell’Antonia Sherine George Nate Russell
cover photo Kwik Image
The board meeting of September 22 was called to order at 1 p.m. Five board members were present. Board member Bill Campbell was absent. We are now operating with a six-member board until our next election due to the resignation of Rich MacFee for personal health reasons. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. Three homeowners from Wellington Point attended for the discussion about low water levels in some Wellington Point ponds. The well used to fill these ponds has now been repaired and is back in service. The first item of business was to ratify all meeting minutes and decisions since the last board meeting including an appointment to the Communications Committee. Director Norm Counts was elected to the position of treasurer of the association.
Old Business
The consultant we engaged to investigate the well pump in Wellington Point found debris in the pump housing causing reduced flow and recommended we clean it. That action was taken and the pump is now back in operation. We also approved a change to our design guidelines to allow artificial turf in rear yards as long as it does not exceed 40% of the rear yard area and meets certain conditions on the turf installation. An application must be submitted for approval before installation of any artificial turf.
New Business
The construction manager we engaged to review potential costs for our proposed Aquatic Center enhancement project presented preliminary costs for the project. The estimated costs were significantly higher than the original estimates so we elected to split the project into two parts—the “Civic Plaza” for the area next to the Aquatic Center pool and an enhanced Aquatic Center pool. We decided to concentrate on the Civic Plaza project and continue with design and costing estimates. The pool portion of that project has been shelved and may be revisited at a future time. We approved a construction bid to expand the Community Room (see opening paragraph of this newsletter). We also held a discussion about the vacancy on our board and decided to wait until the next election to fill it since the term of the member that created the vacancy is up at that time.
Executive Session
Director of Operations Lesku updated the board on the status of legal issues. The board reviewed and approved the Collections report for delinquent accounts. We also reviewed and made appropriate decisions on eleven homeowner violations and two appeals presented to the board for resolution.
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 and approved the Financial Management Report, Balance Sheet, Variance Report, Income Statement, A/R Schedules and Investment Schedule. Director of Operations Lesku reviewed Strategic Plan updates including status reports on the communications plan for the Virginia Entry construction, Custer Road entry project expected to begin next spring, community room expansion project, top ten meter project, and the potential Aquatic center enhancement project. We will also be adding a Strategic Plan status page to the association website to allow homeowners to monitor the Strategic Plan objectives and status. Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in Committee minutes. The meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch News x November 2015
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Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Professionally managed by Community Management Associates (CMA) 6201 Virginia Parkway, McKinney, TX 75071 214.733.5800 • fax 214.778.0595 Courtesy Patrol 214.794.4945
Association Hours Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Association Staff Michael Lesku—Director of Operations Candace Rickman—Executive Assistant Maria Ford—Compliance Coordinator Erica Peoples— Compliance Coordinator Rony Peterson—Compliance Coordinator Nate Russell—Compliance Coordinator Joyce Martin—M.A.R.C. Compliance Coordinator Sherine George—Communications Coordinator Michael Cawley—Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Torres—Maintenance Assistant David Wiest—Lifestyle Director Lynette Rowell—Administrative Assistant
Board of Directors Jon Dell’Antonia—President Ron Ferris—Vice-President Norm Counts—Treasurer Michael Yon—Secretary Tom George—Director Bill Campbell—Director
Stonebridge Ranch News is the only authorized and official monthly publication for the residents of the Stonebridge Ranch community, with news and calendar of community events endorsed by the Stonebridge Ranch Association and its members. Stonebridge Ranch News is published for the residents of Stonebridge Ranch for informational purposes only. The Stonebridge Ranch Association does not guarantee any work or claims made by the advertisers and claims no responsibility or liability for statements made in the publication. Stonebridge Ranch does not in any way endorse or support, nor does it take any credit or responsibility for the services, paid or volunteer, nor statements made in articles or letters published herein not endorsed by the Association or the group decision of the Board of Directors.
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In the news Thanksgiving and Giving Back by Sherine George It is the time of the year for reflection and gratitude. While we aim to be generous year-round, the Thanksgiving holiday evokes an occasion where we genuinely desire to help those less fortunate than us. As your family celebrates with a Thanksgiving feast and then, perhaps a Black Friday shopping spree, we encourage you to also focus back on the true spirit of the holiday—giving back. Here are some easy ideas to give back to the community you live in and love: • Celebrate Giving Tuesday, which occurs on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, December 1. It is a global day dedicated to push back on consumerism and celebrate the joys of giving. In honor of Giving Tuesday, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) will be collecting donations at the SRCA office
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In the news for the Food Bank. Please drop off non-perishable food donations for the North Texas Food Bank at the SRCA office, 6201 Virginia Parkway. Donations will be collected November 1-12. • Serve lunch/dinner at a homeless shelter: Homeless shelters need volunteers to prepare and serve meals for those who need it most. Although the level and type of help will vary with each charity, The Samaritan Inn is a local organization that could use your time. The Samaritan Inn is the only homeless shelter in Collin County and has helped thousands of homeless people in Collin County regain their independence with comprehensive programs and the help of caring individuals and corporations. Please call the volunteer hotline at 214.449.4433. • Run a Turkey Trot: Turkey Trots are races that often benefit local charities and are planned on or around Thanksgiving. The YMCA has its annual Turkey Trot in downtown Dallas. Find out more information by visiting www.thetrot.org. Not only are these runs for a good cause, but they’re also a way to burn calories—which means you can definitely have that second piece of pumpkin pie! • Find out how you can get involved with one of the many local charities! The following charities and links to their websites can be found online at www.stonebridgeranch.com.
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McKinney Seniors Helping Seniors
McKinney Seniors Helping Seniors is a non-profit organization sponsored by local area churches and senior volunteers. The mission of this organization is to help seniors and others in need within the community with minor home maintenance and repairs with the main focus being safety issues in the home.
Community Food Pantry of McKinney
The Community Food Pantry is a nonprofit outreach program that provides food to families who have found themselves in crisis. Staffed entirely by volunteers, this nonprofit has been a part of this community for 32 years.
Adopt-a-Pet Volunteers
Adopt-a-Pet, a nonprofit animal welfare organization, seeks volunteers for events at McKinney/Allen PETsMARTS.
Community Lifeline Center
Community Lifeline Center helps local residents manage short-term crises and navigate their way back to self-sufficiency.
McKinney YMCA
The YMCA offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. You can help out during special events, coach a basketball team, read to a preschool class, lead an exercise class, just to name a few. However you choose to volunteer, you are helping to build a stronger community.
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army helps those in need through many
In the news
different programs: the Christmas Charities, Elderly Services, Disaster Relief, Youth Camps and Community Care Ministries, to name a few. This holiday season, SRCA will be collecting new toys (unwrapped) for the Salvation Army Angel Tree Program. Donations will be accepted December 1-16.
McKinney Ladies Association
The McKinney Ladies Association, through its special events and fundraising efforts, is dedicated to supporting the children and families of the community.
League of Animal Protectors
LAP is an all volunteer, non-profit, 501(c)3 animal rescue and adoption organization. Many of LAP’s volunteers have been involved in animal rescue, rehab and adoption for several years.
Meals on Wheels of Collin County
Meals on Wheels provides home delivered breakfast, lunch and weekend meals and also lunch at four senior centers county-wide. Meals on Wheels and Senior Services in Collin County is a division of Collin County Committee on Aging which is a 501(c)(3); a private nonprofit organization committed to serving the needs of the elderly residents within Collin County since 1976. If you know of a local charity that you would like to add to the list please email sgeorge@cmamanagement.com. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at SRCA! F Stonebridge Ranch News x November 2015
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thIs month’ s feature Enhancement of Virginia Entrance by Sherine George
The first objective of the 2015 Strategic Plan is the Master Landscape Plan, which aims to refresh the common area medians, parkways and entrances in a manner that preserves and enhances the quality and natural beauty of Stonebridge Ranch. The plan’s first focus was to renovate the Virginia Road entrance to Stonebridge Ranch, a project that reached completion in September 2015. Tom George, board member and liaison to the Landscape and Grounds Committee, shared a synopsis of the Virginia Entrance Project and what additional changes homeowners can expect to see in the future.
SRCA: Why was the Virginia entrance selected as the first project under the Master Landscape Plan?
Tom George: This entrance was chosen for several reasons. The first was based on the sheer volume of traffic that enters and leaves through this location as documented by the city of McKinney. The 2013 data indicated over 26,000 vehicles per day travel this location—the largest volume of
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any entrance by a sizeable margin. The second reason was this location had not been updated since the development opened over 25 years ago. The third reason was the large size of the planter beds and curvilinear walls that, when updated, would have a very positive impact on people driving into our community.
SRCA: Will we be updating all seven main entrances to Stonebridge Ranch?
Tom George: There are no specific plans to update all seven main entrances at this time. The Landscape and Grounds Committee is following the recommendations of the Master Landscape Plan that was developed in 2010 with the help of MESA Design Associates, and later updated in 2014. In the last 25 years, Stonebridge Ranch has evolved from a semi-rural bedroom development into a suburban community with its own unique identity. In the next 25 years, Stonebridge Ranch will likely evolve into one of the most desirable residential areas in the North Texas metroplex. It is up to us, as homeowners and members of
thIs month’ s feature cedar elm, and Chinese pistachio) and reducing the amount of sunlight to underlying turf causing it to thin and die. Also, much of the groundcover (i.e. Asian Jasmine) had died after the last two winters of extremely cold weather. The result was most of the underlying areas were large, unattractive mulch beds that were expensive to maintain and had little plant color. In addition, most of the lighting was damaged and non-functional.
SRCA: What updates were made to the Virginia entrance?
the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, to be good stewards of the environment and maintain the design standards ensuring our legacy well into the future.
SRCA: What were the previous conditions at the Virginia entrance? Tom George: There were a number of landscape deficiencies that needed updating and replacement. The Bradford pear trees had overgrown much of the area crowding out the preferred trees (e.g. live oak, red oak,
Tom George: The project included a large-scale upgrade to the entrance on both the north and south parkways and the median. The first step was to remove over 20 pear trees to open sunlight to the underlying planter beds. With the additional sunlight, the planter beds were reduced (saving on the annual cost of mulch) and reshaped to accommodate new drought-tolerant plants. Drip irrigation was installed in the planter beds and the entire irrigation zone was realigned to support the new landscape configuration.
SRCA: What were the results from the project?
Tom George: A variety of new plants were installed to include American beautyberry, flowering quince, dwarf yaupon holly, inland sea oats, lantana, artemisia, purple wintercreeper, Bar Harbor juniper, Mexican feather grass and daffodils. In addition, about 1700 square feet of sidewalk was added to the south side of the entrance. All new LED lighting was added including monument lighting
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thIs month’ s feature (2) and down-lighting (16) that was relocated in the trees, highlighting the curvilinear walls.
SRCA: Where do we go next? What is the next project under the Master Landscape Plan?
Tom George: The Custer Road/Stonebridge Drive entrance is the next project in the planning stage with the Landscape and Grounds Committee. The hardscape redesign will add a fresh new look to the entrance. Redesign in the median includes a new Stonebridge Ranch sign and re-terraced planter walls. Currently, the median planter walls are deteriorating with cracking and loose bricks. In addition, new brick columnar monuments will be added to both north and south sides of the entrance. All hardscape redesign is consistent with existing monuments throughout the common areas of Stonebridge Ranch. In addition, there will be new landscape in front of the curvilinear walls and new lighting throughout the entrance.
SRCA: Why is Custer Road the next priority?
Tom George: This is the original entrance to Stonebridge Ranch and it has never been updated. The planter walls in the median are deteriorating and have become an eyesore. This is a high traffic entrance to our community. The lighting is mostly non-functional and needs replacing. Another key factor is new construction is planned by the city to expand Custer Road from four to six lanes from Stonebridge Drive south to State Highway 121. This has created an opportunity to coordinate the entrance project with the city.
SRCA: Why is this project important and why should homeowners know about it?
Tom George: The Custer Road project will provide a positive high visibility impact to anyone entering Stonebridge Ranch. Custer Road continues to expand as the major north and southbound corridor of traffic flow through west McKinney. This combination of high visibility and high traffic raises the importance of the project and potentially will improve homeowner value in addition to homeowner satisfaction for the natural beauty of our community.
SRCA: Who are the people involved in supporting the Virginia Project?
Tom George: The team of people driving the activity of refreshing the common area landscape is the Landscape and Grounds Committee. The chairperson is Pablo Ruiz and the members are Chris Spear, Mary Patrick, Ed Cusack, Dwayne Ray, Mary Reddan and Jay Miller. Strong support during the Virginia Project construction phase was provided by David Newman (MESA Design) and Mike Lesku (CMA). Contractors doing the work included Valley Crest (landscape), Tejas Stone (hardscape) and Illuminations (lighting). Thanks for their hard work and commitment toward a positive outcome of this important project. F
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bIts & pIe ces Stonebridge Ranch Apparel
Show your community pride! Stonebridge Ranch t-shirts (and more) are now available for purchase. Choose from a variety of apparel including sport shirts, polo shirts, sweatshirts, denim button-ups, visors and baseball caps. The merchandise is available in a selection of colors and you can even pick the color of the SB logo, in either of our official Stonebridge Ranch colors: royal blue and white. Please visit http://tinyurl.com/SBtees and show us how much you love living in Stonebridge Ranch. F
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www.stonebrI dgeranch.com Get Connected! by Sherine George Have you visited our website, www.stonebridgeranch. com, lately? The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) is always looking for ways to engage, and keep you connected to the community. Take a moment and peruse our website and you will be pleased to find that you can find the answers to many of your community-related questions. If you have trouble finding what you are looking for, don’t forget to utilize the search engine feature as a quick way to find items of interest. Below you will find a list of some of the most commonly accessed items on our website: Modification Request: Required when a homeowner is making a change to the exterior of their home. Placed directly under the Help Me Find section, just click on the link labeled Making a change to the exterior of your home? Here you will find step-by-step directions and options on submitting a modification. Community Calendar: An online calendar containing SRCA events and meetings. Just click on the blue Community Calendar icon on the homepage and it will take you directly to the current month’s meetings and events.
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Resident Handbook: A comprehensive way to brush up on association policies. Note that certain policies and procedures have been recently updated and all changes can be found under the Quick Links section of our homepage. Contact Us: The last drop down menu item on the homepage, this page will direct you on whom to call or email for your questions and concerns. SRCA is professionally managed by Community Management Associates (CMA). You can call the CMA office for questions regarding billing, refinance, making phone payments and resale certificates. All other inquires can be handled directly at the SRCA office. Documents Library: A library housing SRCA documents and forms, including Modification Applications, Transfer of Privileges Form, committee meeting minutes, Governing Documents and CC&Rs and much, much more. Classifieds/Lost and Found: A page dedicated to homeowners who are interested in selling household items and/or need a lost pet/item posted.
www.stonebrIdgeranch.com
E-news sign up: A great way to obtain news on SRCA events and meetings delivered every two weeks directly to your inbox. If you haven’t already registered on our website, you need to do so now. As a registered user, you will have even more access to parts of the website. Registering is as easy as
creating a login ID and password. Make sure you have your account number (starting with 003) available while registering. Once registered, you have the option to select the type of emails you want to receive from the association. You can choose from a variety of categories, including family events, adult events, races and triathlons and board and committee meetings. After selecting what kind of email you want to receive, you will be notified as soon as that event is added to our community calendar. As a registered user, you will find that you can opt to receive e-statements, pay assessments online, view any existing open violations and submit online modification requests. Updates are made to the website to make your online experience easier and more enjoyable. So we encourage you to take the time to familiarize yourself with your community’s website. As always, we welcome your feedback and questions. 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)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) Book Club, 7 p.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30 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 Tenn Select Tennis Academ
MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Modifications Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) Travel Club, 9 a.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Bingo 7 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
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)
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3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Social Committe 9 a.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
Coffee Talk, 8:30 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller 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
november 2, 9, 16 & 23 Walking club november 4, 11, 18 & 25 coffee talk 8 november 5 PlayDate in the november 6, 13 & 20 TGIF Coffee 1 november 7 adult big bass november 9 book club 7 p november 16 Travel club 9 november 17 bingo 7 p.m. (br november 19 western volvo november 21 coffee, cars &
0 a.m. (BR) Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
Playdate in the Park, 9 a.m. (WC) TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (BR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
r Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
ee Meeting,
r Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (BR)
r Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
Adult Big Bass Tournament, 9 a.m. (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (BR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (BR)
Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Coffee, Cars & Conversation, 8:30 a.m. (BTC)
Western Volvo Night, 5:30 p.m.
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Happy
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Thanksgiving!
b 9 a.m. (btc) 8:30 a.m. (br) he Park 9 a.m. (Wc) p.m. (br) bass tournament 9 a.m. (BTC) p.M. (Br) 9 a.m. (br) br) volvo night 5:30 p.m. & conversation 8:30 a.m. (btc)
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complIance tI p s Home Exterior Modifications by Nate Russell Happy Thanksgiving, Stonebridge Ranch! Holiday decorations really add some fun to the neighborhood. Just don’t forget to check the compliance timeline before you decorate. Holiday decorations may be put up no earlier than one month prior to the holiday being celebrated and must be taken down within a week after. Don’t forget to save some turkey for your friendly neighborhood Compliance Coordinator too! While you are putting up your decorations around the house, you may notice areas of the home that could use a coat of paint. If you are looking to repaint the house or house trim the same color, then you do not need to submit an application to do so. If you are looking to use a different color than what is currently on the house, please remember that all color changes require approval. This applies to all color changes including the house, front door and fences. If you are planning on applying for a color change to your property, you will need to provide a current picture of the house with the original color and a separate picture of the color you wish to use. Remember, the compliance team is here to help you so call us or come see us if you have any
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questions. We are always more than willing to sit down with you and go over any modification you wish to complete on your property. Sitting around the fireplace with your family is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy the cooler weather. Why not bring the fun outside? Submitting an application to
complIance tI ps build an outdoor fireplace is easy as long as you follow our guidelines. Here are a few key pointers when building your outdoor fireplace. • Outdoor fireplaces must be finished with masonry that matches or blends with the house. • Outdoor fireplaces must be located in the side or rear yards only. They cannot encroach any easement or alter the surface drainage on the lot. • Outdoor fireplaces cannot be closer than five feet to any rear yard. • The maximum height of the firebox cannot exceed six feet and the total structure cannot be taller than thirteen feet.
While sitting around the fireplace is a relaxing experience, some people prefer to enjoy building their fire in an old-fashioned fire pit. When submitting an application to build a fire pit, please remember to follow these guidelines: • Fire pits must be finished with masonry that matches or blends with the house. • Fire pits must be located in the side or rear yards only. They cannot encroach any easement or alter the surface drainage on the lot. • Fire pits must be located a minimum of ten feet from any rear yard property line and cannot be located within ten feet of any combustible construction. These are just a few key points from our guidelines. Remember all of our guidelines and submittal information can be found at www.stonebridgeranch.com. Please call us or come see us any time with any questions or concerns you may have. Thank you for your compliance! F Rony Peterson, Maria Ford, Nate Russell, Erica Peoples, Joyce Martin; CMA Compliance Coordinators, Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc.
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resId ent I n terest Playdate in the Park: Wren Creek Park by Sherine George
The past two issues of Stonebridge Ranch News featured two of our most popular pocket parks: the Beach and Tennis Club and Wyndsor Grove Parks. The Social
Wren Creek Park is located near 1701 Camberton Drive. Please note the address is not an exact location but the closest proximity to the park.
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resIdent Interest are natural habitat areas as designated by the Army Corp of Engineers. Playdate in the Park is a great way to meet new neighbors and enjoy one of the many reasons Stonebridge Ranch is a great place to live. Join us for some family outdoor fun! Look for the locations of upcoming Playdates in the Park in our future issues. A complete list of the 12 community parks (not to be confused with the six city parks) can be found on our website, www.stonebridgeranch.com. You can find the Stonebridge Ranch Parks webpage from the Amenities drop-down menu. Here you will find pictures and Google maps indicating the exact location of each park. F Committee has developed a fun way to see and experience our community parks by creating monthly Playdates in the Park. The September and October Playdates in the Park attracted a large group of parents and their young children. Each month our playdates feature a fun theme— September ’s playdate included musicians and October ’s had a special appearance by Scooby Doo. On November 5, at 9 a.m., the playgroup will be meeting at Wren Creek Park and children are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes for a Playdate in the Park Dress Up Day! Please note that costumes are not required to attend. Wren Creek village is located on the east side of North Stonebridge Drive just before you reach Hwy. 380. This village consists of approximately 72 acres and was designed and platted between 2002 and 2007. It contains 343 lots with 10 common areas and one playground with equipment. It is adjacent to a 404 open space area totaling 13.5 acres. All of the 404 areas within Stonebridge Ranch Photos taken at the Beach and Tennis Club Park at September Playdate in the Park event.
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St. Gabriel’s 15th Annual Holiday Boutique
Don’t miss this incredible shopping opportunity on Saturday, November 7, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at St. Gabriel Community Center, 110 St. Gabriel Way. Sponsored by the Women’s Club, there will be over 70 artisans displaying and selling unique items—all handcrafted. You will find Christmas and home décor, jewelry, paintings, clothing, candles, pottery, woodwork, gifts and more! There will be a raffle of vendor items throughout the day. A delicious snack bar and lunch will be available. Stop by the bake sale booth sponsored by the Women’s Club. This is a great place to begin your holiday shopping or to find that special item you can’t resist. Admission is FREE. Donations of canned goods for Thanksgiving baskets for the needy are welcomed. For additional information, check out www. stgabriel.org/holidayboutique.
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 Our speaker in November will be a representative from Patriot Paws, Rockwall, Texas. This organization trains and provides service dogs of the highest quality, at no cost to disabled American veterans in order to help restore their physical and emotional independence. Come hear their story and meet one of the pups! Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, November 17, in the Eva Joplin Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 Virginia Parkway in McKinney. Social time with refreshments will begin at 9:30 a.m.
McKinney Ladies Association
Join us on Monday, November 9, to learn more about Mission Regan. We will meet at their facility at 330 Industrial Blvd., Suite 111, McKinney. Mission Regan collects medical supplies, medicines and equipment, and sends them to those who are in desperate need—locally and globally. Mission Regan exists to bridge the chasm between people who have too much and people who struggle to survive. An example of what they do locally: A sweet lady needed a wheelchair and had to use her father’s, which left him without one. She was told about Mission Regan and reached out to see if they could help. They were able to find a used wheelchair and had the pleasure of dropping it off at her house so she could get it to her Dad. Whether it’s here or in another country, they are thankful for the opportunity to help those in need! At the meeting we will be collecting items for this great project. Currently they are in need of the following items: unused medical supplies, first aid supplies, unused medications—up to 18 months after expired date, suitcases (to ship the items in), diapers and formula. It’s never too late to become a member of MLA. You can always join on-line or at one of our meetings. MLA is offers rolling annual memberships. That means when you pay MLA’s $50 annual membership dues, your membership will not expire for the next 12 months. For more information about our organization, please visit www.mckinneyladies.org or email us at mckinneyladies@yahoo.com. F
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Are You Ready for Cold Weather? Fall is the time to prepare for winter. Cold and wet conditions not only make you miserable, but they can damage your home. Some winterizing can wait, some can’t. Make a list of what needs to be done, and tackle the time-sensitive tasks first. Here’s a simple checklist from the association to help you get a jump on winter.
Indoor Winterizing
• Examine doors and replace weather-stripping as needed. • Examine window caulking and reseal where needed. • Examine and repair vents where needed. • Clean chimneys and flues. • Remove items near heat vents. • Place nonskid runners or door mats outside to help keep water, sand and salt out of the house.
• Spray outdoor locks and hinges with lubricant. • Stake driveway and walkway edges that may be difficult to find under deep snow.
• Cut back tree branches and shrubs that hide signs or block light. • Examine outdoor handrails and tighten if needed. • Turn off electrical breakers for outdoor equipment. • Close hose bibs. • Clean out gutters and downspouts. • Clear yard drains.
• • • • • • •
Outdoor Winterizing
Assemble, stockpile or refresh winter supplies: Batteries Candles and matches Ice melt and de-icer Sand Snow shovels Generator fuel Antifreeze F
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from your neI g hbor Culinary Classics From Your Neighbor White Chocolate Bread Pudding Bread Pudding:
16-18 slices of bread (broken in pieces) 1 stick of butter, melted 2 cups of sugar 4 large eggs 1 quart of milk 1-1/2 tsp. vanilla extract Mix melted butter, sugar and eggs. Mix in the milk and vanilla extract. Pour over broken bread pieces in a 9x13 cake pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately one hour. When the center rises and browns, it is done. White Chocolate Glaze: 3/4 stick of butter 1 c. powdered sugar 8 oz. white chocolate chips (Mom can’t help but use a little more) 6 Tbs. heavy cream Melt all on low heat. Poke holes with a large fork in pudding while still warm. Pour glaze over pudding. It can be served warm. It is very sweet!
Debra Brown and her husband, Mike, have owned various properties in Stonebridge Ranch over the past nine years. It has been the area where the majority of their work has been, both as a custom homebuilder and realtor. Moving into Stonebridge Ranch has been the goal for years, but waiting for the last high school student to graduate and work delayed that move until this year. They purchased a home in Kings Lake and are in the exciting process of remodeling it. Debra graciously shared her mother’s recipe for White Chocolate Bread Pudding. “This recipe comes from my mother who resides in Lafayette, Louisiana. She is a typical southern cook. Our family has enjoyed many of her rich desserts over the years, most as traditions we must have during the holidays. It is rare to add desserts to those traditions, but this bread pudding made the list a few years ago. It is easy to make so it is one I make for gatherings with friends or dinner invites. It is one of my go-to recipes if I need to bring a dessert to an event. I usually hear ’Oh I don’t care for bread pudding’...until they taste it!”
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We are working towards a Stonebridge Ranch cookbook. Please join in on the fun and share your favorite recipe with us—and the story behind it! Did you serve it at your wedding? Was the recipe in your family? Maybe you discovered it while on vacation? We want to know! Please email your recipe to sgeorge@ cmamanagement.com and we will try to include it in an upcoming issue. F
around the ranch
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lIfestyle Stonebridge Singles
Dallas Area Winery Brunch & Tour
Meet Up/Pick Up Location: Coal Vines—2404 Cedar Springs Road, Dallas, TX 75201 When: Saturday, November 7 Time: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Are you single? Come join us in the luxury chartered bus from winery to winery on treks that last six to eight hours. We will start our adventure at Coal Vines. You can buy your ticket at http://www.texaswinos.com/events. For more information and to RSVP contact Cindy at galvanlaw@att.net.
Playdate in the Park This will be a monthly playdate for kids and adults to get together, make new friends and explore a new park every month. We will be meeting in a different pocket park throughout Stonebridge Ranch on the first Thursday of the month, 9-10 a.m.
November 5—Wren Creek
Let’s play! Please check the website’s (www. stonebridgeranch.com) Community Calendar and e-news for any changes or additions.
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socIal scene Coffee, Cars & Conversation
Can’t make it to our weekday Coffee Talk or TGIF? Join us for refreshments at our upcoming Coffee, Cars & Conversation! SB Residents Only Saturday, November 21 at 8:30 a.m. SBR Beach and Tennis Club COFFEE, WATER & DONUTS will be provided. “A cup of coffee shared with a friend is happiness tasted and time well spent.” Bring your classic/fancy car to park in the circular drive!
Coffee Talk Join us for Coffee Talk! Every Wednesday, 8:30-9:30 a.m. And TGIF Coffee Every Friday, 1-2 p.m. In the Board Room (next to the Beach Club entrance) New to Stonebridge? This is a great place to get your questions answered. Interested in meeting new people? Coffee Talk is the place to go to find others with common interests and for general conversation. Our regulars are a casual bunch ranging from parents with preschoolers to those enjoying the golden years. Come socialize with your Stonebridge neighbors. See you on Wednesday morning and Friday afternoon! Coffee, tea and water are provided. Stonebridge Ranch News x November 2015
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socIal scene Volvo Western Casino Night Stonebridge residents are invited to a free Western Casino Night on November 19, 5:30-9 p.m. sponsored by Volvo of Dallas, 2705 North Central Expressway, Plano, west side of 75 service road between Park and Parker. Look for the big white tent. Help celebrate Thanksgiving and their move to their new location in Plano 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 third year to offer this event to residents.
Adult Big Bass Tournament
November 7, 2015 WHERE: Lake Stonebridge Only—No other lakes in Stonebridge Ranch are permitted during this tournament. ENTRY FEE: $10 per person. (CASH ONLY) Must be at least 18 years old to enter. PRIZES: 1st Place—100% of all entry fees. In case of a tie, prize money will be split. WHO: Stonebridge Ranch residents only. SB photo ID is required. Only paid contestants are allowed to fish during this event. Spectators and children are not allowed to fish during tournament hours. REGISTRATION: Bring $10 cash to the tournament
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check-in located at the Beach and Tennis Club between 8:30-9 a.m. After check-in, fishermen can proceed to any part of Lake Stonebridge to fish, except through the beach club gates or on private property. No preregistration required. TIME: Tournament will be held from 9 a.m. to noon. No casting until 9 a.m. RULES: Fishing is permitted from the bank only; wading, tubes and boats are NOT permitted. Fisherman may carry several rods but 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 to the judges’ table to be measured at any 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. Tournament judge will give all participants the official time the morning of the event.
Bingo Night It’s a great time to make new friends so please join us on Tuesday, November 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. for an evening of BINGO and PRIZES in the Board Room located at the Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club. Light snacks and refreshments will be served and please NO alcoholic beverages. Seating is limited to the first 20 who sign up by emailing David Wiest, Lifestyle Director at dwiest@cmamanagement.com. This is an adult only event is for Stonebridge Ranch residents only and there is no charge. Click the link below for more event details and to RSVP: http://whoozin.com/ R3D-G3X-JN7V
socIal scene Book Club Love to read? We’re looking for you! Meeting in the Board Room, the second Monday of the month, 7-8 p.m. Please check the website’s (www.stonebridgeranch.com) Community Calendar and e-news for any changes or additions.
Walking Club Looking for a buddy to walk with? Take a stroll, dog walker, serious mile walkers. Everyone is welcome! Every Monday, 9 a.m. Stonebridge upper parking lot Please check the website’s (www.stonebridgeranch. com) Community Calendar and e-news for any changes or additions.
Upcoming December Events
3 Tree Lighting Ceremony & Photos with Santa
4 Playdate in the Park 8 Bingo
14 Book Club
15 Travel Club
19 Coffee, Cars & Conversation Walking Club every Monday
Coffee Talk every Wednesday TGIF every Friday except
Dec. 25
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“Valerie” Looking for a lap dog? You’ve found her! She may be a 46-pound Shepherd mix, but if you sit down, she will crawl into your lap. Her name is Valerie and she is 4-years-old. She loves to go outside and play with her friend, Zoe, who came to the shelter with her. She is heartworm positive, but thanks to generous donors, her treatments are free. Valerie has been spayed, microchipped and received age-appropriate vaccinations. She has lots of love and cuddles to give. Don’t delay—come see her today! #142893
“Mr. Smee” Meet Mr. Smee, a 17-month-old, domestic shorthair mix lad weighing in at 13 pounds. He is looking for his furr-ever home. Could that be with you? He absolutely loves attention and reaches out to touch you whenever you walk by. He enjoys petting, small talk and chasing laser lights. Mr. Smee has been neutered, tested for FIV/ FeLV (he’s negative), microchipped and has received age-appropriate vaccinations. What more could you ask for? Come meet this sweet guy today! #131684 Valerie and Mr. Smee are waiting for you at the SPCA of Texas’ Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney, 8411 Stacy Road. Fee includes spay/neuter, ageappropriate vaccinations, microchip, rabies tag and a free leash. Call 214-742-SPCA (7722) or visit.
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