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STONEBRIDGE RANCH HOA NEWS SEPTEMBER 2014

Vol. 2, Issue 9

Contents 22

IN EVERY ISSUE 5

From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia

In the News by Sherine George

Compliance Tips by Nate Russell

Inside the HOA by Michael Lesku

Community Calendar

Financial Update

This Month’s Feature by Sherine George

Your Neighbor by Sherine George

27 Lifestyle 28

Social Scene

SPECIAL SECTIONS 12

From Your Neighbor

Around the Ranch

Bits and Pieces

Landscape & Garden by Shannon Sheriff

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Stonebridge Ranch HOA News © 2014 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 HOA NEWS

publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

contributing writers Jon Dell’Antonia Sherine George Michael Lesku Nate Russell Shannon Sheriff

cover photo Wellington Point by Shannon Sheriff

School is back in session so drive carefully

This summer has really gone by quickly. School is back in session so be careful around the school zones and watch out for children. Our pools are scheduled to go on a weekend-only schedule beginning September 6. Stonebridge Ranch Day held on July 26 was a big success. Approximately 1500 homeowners and their guests attended this year’s event. We anticipate making this celebration an annual event on Stonebridge’s anniversary.

July 17 Board Meeting

The meeting was called to order at 1:02 p.m. Six board members were present. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. Twelve homeowners from Wellington Point attended to express their concern about the city’s requirement for Stonebridge Ranch to cap the pipe used to fill the lakes in their area to maintain the lake levels. When the Wellington Point subdivision was being developed over 20 years ago, five ponds were constructed by the developer to add esthetic value to the subdivision. These ponds are not used for storm water control as they are not part of the natural watershed, but were constructed to enhance the beauty of the area. Since that time, the water level of those ponds has been dependent on natural rainfall supplemented by city water through one outlet into one pond. The water levels in the other ponds are maintained by a series of underground pipes and pumps fed from the one pond that is supplemented with city water. When the council passed the revised Stage 3 water restrictions the city immediately required us to cease maintaining the water level of those ponds with supplemental city water. The only short-term solution is for the city to amend the water restrictions or grant an exemption to allow us to maintain the water level and that has been proposed to the city. I did send a letter to the mayor and city council requesting that action. The first item of business was to approve the RFP for lake dredging to be sent out to potential vendors.

Old Business

The board reviewed final changes to the reserve study and approved it. The reserve study is an activity we undertake every three or four years to look at our assets and determine a useful life and replacement cost for those assets. We then determine if the balance in our reserve fund is sufficient to meet our obligations. I am pleased to report to you that our reserve fund is fully funded for the foreseeable future. We are one of the few homeowner associations that are in such a strong financial position. The board discussed its use of a new board task web site and decided not to use it because it was cumbersome and appeared to offer no advantage for the board members.

New Business

The board reviewed the Finance Committee’s report on their evaluation of presentations made by various financial firms to manage the association’s reserve funds. That is something we do periodically to evaluate our financial advisor. After careful consideration, the recommendation was to continue to use our current financial advisor. The board heard a presentation from the Communications Committee on the results of its recent focus group sessions. We then heard a discussion from the Amenities Committee liaison reviewing the results of the proposals from the recent design exercise to choose a firm to assist in developing a Capital Improvement Plan. The board voted to approve negotiations with the David McCaskill Design Group. We also approved some Design Guideline revisions to landscaping requirements and other minor corrections to storm door requirements and basketball goals. The board voted to request quotes for drilling a well in the Wellington Point area to keep their lakes at the proper water level to determine if that is a viable option in light of the city’s decision to curtail our use of city water to maintain the lake levels.

Executive Session

The board reviewed the Collections Committee report. We reviewed and made appropriate decisions on three violations that were presented to the board for resolution. Two of the appeals were approved and the violations dismissed. An appropriate decision was made on the other. We received an update on legal issues from our association attorney.

Association Reports For information or to place an advertisement, please contact: Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, call 972.727.4569 or email sue@allenimage.com.

The board approved the current financial reports including the accounts receivable report and investment report and approved them. As of mid-year, we are slightly ahead of budget. The Social Committee has been working on a design to offer shirts and other apparel to Stonebridge Ranch residents who may want to purchase these items. Three different vendors will be offering these items as soon as everything is set. Watch the web site for details. We also heard reports from all board liaisons on their respective committee activities. The meeting adjourned at 5:27 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

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 Shannon Sheriff—Assistant Manager Candace Rickman—Community Service Coordinator Nate Russell—Compliance Coordinator Maria Ford—Compliance Coordinator Rony Peterson—Compliance Coordinator Joyce Martin—M.A.R.C. Compliance Coordinator Sherine George—Communications Coordinator Michael Cawley—Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Torres—Maintenance Assistant David Wiest—Lifestyle Director Lynette Rowell—Administrative Assistant

Board of Directors Jon Dell’Antonia—President Ron Ferris—Vice-President Richard MacFee—Treasurer Michael Yon—Secretary David Counts—Director Tom George—Director Bill Campbell—Director Stonebridge Ranch Homeowners Association News is the only authorized and official monthly publication for the residents of the Stonebridge Ranch community, with news and calendar of community events endorsed by the Stonebridge Ranch HOA and its members. Stonebridge Ranch HOA News is published for the residents of Stonebridge Ranch for informational purposes only. The Stonebridge Ranch HOA does not guarantee any work or claims made by the advertisers and claims no responsibility or liability for statements made in the publication. Stonebridge Ranch does not in any way endorse or support, nor does it take any credit or responsibility for the services, paid or volunteer, nor statements made in articles or letters published herein not endorsed by the Association or the group decision of the Board of Directors.

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In the news Stonebridge Ranch Day by Sherine George

Stonebridge Ranch residents gathered around, eager and ready to celebrate their community this summer. Approximately 1,500 residents attended the two-day event in honor of Stonebridge Ranch, the 5,000-acre land, originally known as the Flying M Ranch. Twenty-six years

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later, the community now boasts 72 villages consisting of 830 acres of hike and bike trails, lakes and ponds for sailing and fishing, an aquatic center and a tennis and beach club. It is no wonder that residents are so proud and enthusiastic about celebrating the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vast growth and development throughout the years. Stonebridge Ranch Day got off to a great start with classic cars lining the Beach Club on Saturday morning. About 50 cars from Italian imports like the beautiful Pantera, to classic Fords and Mustangs were on display that morning. SRCA would like to especially congratulate our 36 Classic Car Show winners. After car aficionados viewed the many beautiful classics, they stopped by at one of the various food trucks parked at the Beach Club. Food truck options included smoothies from Maui Wowi, Cajun Tailgators, Snowball Express and My Brother â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s BBQ. It was an exceptionally warm day and residents were encouraged to

In the news take a nice cool break in the Community Room while enjoying their lunch. DJ Uptown Sound got the crowd on its feet for some music and fun at the Beach Club Pool Party. Residents had a great time playing Stonebridge Ranch Trivia and many more interactive games. Prizes such as footballs, floating toys and even a guest pass to the beach were awarded to the winners of the various games. In the midst of the celebrations, Lifeline Aquatics also organized an entertaining volleyball tournament. Team White Rice took home the first place trophy and Team New Digs came in second. There was no shortage of fun for Stonebridge Ranch kids as they climbed a 24-foot rock climbing wall and chased each other through four large inflatable kid zones. “What we tried to do was have something for everyone to partake in during the day. I think people enjoyed themselves tremendously. Many residents were participating in every single activity that we had planned throughout the day,” shares board member and liaison to the Social Committee, Michael Yon.

“This sort of event is very important for the community. It is a great way to show our pride and demonstrate just how much Stonebridge Ranch means to us. It’s just one more opportunity to celebrate another year of the quality of life we have here in Stonebridge Ranch,” says Yon. Many residents raved about the Reigning Nickels Concert that night. The crowd really enjoyed themselves and sang along with the acoustic renderings of classic rock, blues, country, jazz and pop songs. The evening was topped off with a beautiful fireworks show accompanied by live music. Yon adds, “We are tremendously fortunate to have CMA and all the members behind the scenes that make this day happen. I want to especially thank David Wiest, our Lifestyle Director and our Social Committee for the amount of work they put into this day to make it such a beautiful success.” F Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

complIance tI p s Fall into Compliance by Nate Russell We have almost made it through the summer. Fall is just around the corner and there is no better time to get your yard prepped than right now. Preparing for fall is essential to a healthy landscape. While some of our yards still bear the scars of summer, fall allows us a fresh start with our lawns. The cooler weather and extra moisture in the ground allow the roots of the plants to really dig in and prepare for the harsh winter. Not properly preparing your yard can lead to compliance issues such as dead shrubs or grass, bare spots in your yard, broken tree branches and weeds. Taking the necessary steps to get your yard ready for fall leads to a healthy landscape which will in turn help keep Stonebridge Ranch beautiful. The switch from summer to fall can be hard for your plants if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take the proper precautions. Cleaning out your landscape beds is an important starting point. Dead branches and excess leaves should be cleared out in order to provide the healthy root systems room to grow. The important part here is to take your time so that next spring you can reap the rewards that come with beautiful landscape beds. Weeds can be another compliance issue. Just like the other plants in your yard, weeds are getting ready for winter. Their root systems will develop and grow deeper as the plant takes up all the nutrients and water from the topsoil during the preparation for winter. This creates a much more difficult situation later on. Try to get out and treat your weeds now while the weeds are transferring everything to their roots. Weed killer gets taken to the roots just like the nutrients in the soil. This summer we had some of the most stringent watering restrictions we have seen, making it hard to plant new trees or shrubs. September is the time to start choosing trees to plant before it gets too cold. Just remember if you want to take out a tree or shrubs you need to apply before doing so. This can be done online by logging into your account at stonebridgeranch.com, or printing off the form and bringing it to the office. If you want to change up your landscaping before fall or winter arrives, be sure to consult the Compliance Coordinator for your village. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not sure if the change you are making needs approval, you can always check online or call the SRCA office. We are always more than happy to sit down with you and go over any landscape designs. Thank you for your compliance! Rony Peterson, Maria Ford, Nate Russell, Joyce Martin CMA Compliance Coordinators Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc. F

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from your neI g hbor Culinary Classics From Your Neighbor We are working toward 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? We want to know! Please email your recipe to sgeorge@cmamanagement.com and we will try to include it in an upcoming issue. Priscilla Wertenberger has been a Stonebridge Ranch resident for 5-1/2 years and a member of the SRCA Social Committee. She fell in love with the beauty of the community, the parks and the excellent schools when she came for a visit in 2008. Priscilla has graciously shared her favorite fall recipe with the Stonebridge Ranch community. “The Robert Redford Pie is the most requested recipe from everyone we know! We have made this pie for many years, and it has always been a huge hit at any gathering or office potluck. (Never a piece left!) It is a perfect, easy recipe for any time of the year, but especially popular in the fall and winter months. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!” Robert Redford Pie 1/2 c. (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 c. sifted all-purpose flour 1 c. very finely chopped pecans 8 oz. package cream cheese, room temperature 1 c. sugar 2 c. Cool Whip (2-8 oz. containers) 1 large pkg. (3.9 oz) vanilla instant pudding 1 small pkg. (1.4 oz) chocolate instant pudding 3 c. cold milk Garnish—Chopped pecans and/or two heath candy bars chopped into small pieces Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a bowl, mix together the flour, pecans and melted butter until mixture resembles cookie dough. Spread and press into the bottom of a buttered 9 x 13-inch glass Pyrex baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely (approximately 1 hour). Mix cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold in one cup of the Cool Whip and spread over the cooled crust. Beat both puddings and milk until slightly thickened. Spread over the cream cheese layer. Top with remaining Cool Whip. Sprinkle chopped candy bars (or nuts of your choice) over top and refrigerate (best if refrigerated 24 hours before serving). Cut into squares and serve. F

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InsId e the hoa How Can I Add Value to Stonebridge Ranch? by Michael Lesku According to www.volunteeramerica.gov, in 2012, one in four adults volunteered through an organization, signifying the importance of volunteering for millions of Americans. Research shows that volunteering increases the health, happiness and, sometimes, longevity of volunteers. Volunteers tend to have lower levels of depression, increased life satisfaction and enhanced wellbeing. As a resident of Stonebridge Ranch, if you are looking to engage in a meaningful way with your neighbors while also adding value to your community, look no further! Stonebridge Ranch has the following seven committees made up of community volunteers: Modifications, MARC (Master Architecture Review Committee), Social, Amenities, Communications, Finance and Landscape and Grounds. Committees are an integral part of our association operations. Committees give the board a way to gather information, offer new ideas and opinions and provide a training ground for future board members. All committees are advisory to the board unless given specific decisionmaking authority by the board or the CC&Rs. The board

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provides each committee with a job description and objectives to facilitate its success as a community resource. Our association has three types of committees: • Administrative committees, such as the Modifications Committee, are set out in our association’s bylaws and CC&Rs. They are ongoing, permanent and often have clearly defined power and authority. • Standing committees, such as our Finance Committee, are established by the board for an ongoing and specific purpose. These committees generally make recommendations to, and act under, the supervision of the board. • Ad-hoc committees, such as our Ad Hoc Lakes and Dam Committee, are established by the board as needed for specific projects and tasks. When the task is complete, the committee is disbanded. The association relies on committee members to help understand the needs of the community and to keep Stonebridge Ranch vibrant. Additionally, through their collaboration with association staff (CMA), the committee

InsIde the hoa members can help save the association thousands of dollars each year. Stonebridge Ranch just wouldn’t be what it is without our active and effective committees. Our dedicated committee members deserve our sincerest thanks. To be successful, our association needs to cultivate fresh blood and ideas by encouraging additional resident involvement in our committees. So, as a valued resident of Stonebridge Ranch, we’d like to ask your help on one of our seven committees. Still not convinced to volunteer? According to the Community Associations Institute, here are the top ten reasons to volunteer: 1. Protect your self-interests. Protect your property values and maintain the quality of life in your community. 2. Correct a problem. Do you think maintenance has been neglected? Here’s your opportunity to address that problem. 3. Be sociable. Meet fellow SRCA residents and exchange thoughts and ideas. 4. Give back. It’s not only altruistic, it feels good to give back. 5. Advance your career. Build your personal resume by sharpening relevant work skills through community volunteer service. 6. Have some fun. Association work isn’t just hard work— it can be enjoyable and exciting! 7. Get educated. Learn how it’s done.

8. Express yourself. Help with creative projects like updating the Master Landscape Plan. 9. Earn recognition. Your contributions will be recognized and celebrated. 10. Try some altruism. Improve society by helping others. If you are interested in serving, visit our website www. stonebridgeranch.com and fill out a volunteer form along with a short bio and mail it in to the association office, fax it to 214.778.0595 or email it to mlesku@cmamanagement.com. Help make Stonebridge Ranch an even better place to live! F

Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

Labor Day at the Beach, 11 a.m. (BTC)

MARC Meeting 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (BR) Amenities Committee Meeting, 7-9 p.m. (BR)

Coffee Talk, 8:30 a

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Baby

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

Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.

ARC Meeting, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Baby (CR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

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

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Baby

MARC Meeting 8 a.m.-3 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 Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

ARC Meeting, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Stonebridge Ranch Adult Triathlon, 7:30 a.m. (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR) MARC Meeting 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (BR)

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

Stonebridge Singles Group, 7-8 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

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Coffee Talk, 8:30

Social Committee (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Baby

Coffee Talk, 8:30 a

Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Baby (CR)

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR)

Beach Club Pool Party, 6 p.m. (BTC)

3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Baby (CR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

3:30-7 pm—Junior Ten Select Tennis Academ 6:30-7:30 pm—Fit4Bab

a.m. (CR)

Strides (BTC)

nis Camps, my (BTC) y (CR)

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

0 a.m. (CR)

Strides (BTC)

nis Camps, my (BTC) y (CR)

a.m. (CR)

e Meeting, 9 a.m. Strides (BTC)

nis Camps, my (BTC) y (CR)

a.m. (CR)

Evening on the Veranda, 7 p.m. (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Camps, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

Communications Committee Meeting, 9-10 a.m. (BR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Home & Garden Show, 9-noon (BTC)

Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.

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

Board of Directors Meeting, 1-5 p.m. (BR)

r Strides (BTC)

nnis Camps, my (BTC) by (CR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Stonebridge Ranch Kids Triathlon, 7:30 a.m. (BTC)

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

September 3, 10, 17 & 24 coffee talk 8:30 a.m. (CR) september 1 labor day at the beach 11 a.m. (BTC) spetember 12 evening on the veranda 7:30 p.m. (btc) September 20 home & garden show 9 a.m.-noon (btc) September 27 Stonebridge Ranch Kids Triathlon 7:30 a.m. (BTC) september 28 stonebridge ranch adult triathlon 7:30 a.m. (BTC) september 30 travel club meeting, 9 a.m. (CR) september 30 Stonebridge Singles Group, 7-8 p.m. (CR)

Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

fInancIal update

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around the ranch

Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

thIs month’ s feature Strategic Plan—Capital Improvement Plan By Sherine George In our past few Monthly Features, we explored some of the objectives outlined in the Strategic Plan. Considerable headway has been made towards completion of our second objective in the Strategic Plan. The goal was to create and implement a long-term Capital Improvement Plan including adding and/or enhancing amenities. Bill Campbell, board member and liaison to the Amenities Committee, as well as Richard Krukar, Amenities Committee chair, are spearheading the efforts. “Stonebridge Ranch is now 26 years old. We need to invest in our existing amenities infrastructure while also looking forward to see what else we will need that aligns with the community’s vision and mission,” shares Campbell. As with every objective within the Strategic Plan, the Capital Improvement Plan seeks to meet SRCA’s goal of being the premier, large-scale, master planned community of choice in North Texas. The process started with an invitation for a dozen design firms to take a bus tour of the community. After considering the numerous submissions and presentations, the Amenities Committee narrowed down the list to three potential design firms. Those final three firms were given a design challenge to test their creativity. The firms were given a blank slate and asked to submit design proposals for the existing Aquatic Center and the land adjacent to it. This area was selected for the challenge because it meets the scope of the Capital Improvement Plan by incorporating both the enhancement of existing amenities and possible addition of amenities to the community. Campbell shares that some of the ideas submitted by the consultants were very intriguing because the concepts align with the top priorities of the Amenities Committee. “A common thread that we saw with all three consultants was the desire to expand the use of the amenity from the current three months a year when the pool is open, to all 12 months of the year, with creative use of the land adjacent to the pool. Having our amenities get year round use is a priority for us. Our pools only get 100 days of use each year from Memorial Day to Labor Day,” explains Campbell. Additionally, Campbell notes that a couple of unexpected ideas were brought up as part of this creative process. They included adding Wi-Fi for residents at both pools and establishing a wayfinding program within Stonebridge. Wayfinding entails establishing effective signage within SBR that would help to facilitate a healthy lifestyle for pedestrians and cyclists by directing them to points of interest within the communities while using our hike and

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thIs month’ s feature

bike trails. These ideas are just a couple of byproducts of the creative process. There are a number of other ideas being researched and considered for implementation. With input from the Amenities Committee, the board of directors has now approved the consultant that we will use—David McCaskill Design Group. “We were looking for someone that we felt would be a partner, not just a vendor,” says Campbell. “We were looking for a group that is looking out for our best interest, someone that is respectful of our budget and is interested in collaborating as a team. Based on our review of the information provided and the references that were checked, we feel that the David

McCaskill Design Group has a history of successful completion of similar projects.” Now comes the process of actually creating the Capital Improvement Plan, which is predicted to have a six-month timeline. Ultimately, the goal is to create a prioritized list of up to ten amenities projects. Once that is complete, we anticipate implementing the top two projects in short order. The board has budgeted $2 million over the next five years for the design and construction of the first round of projects. As part of this process, we will be benchmarking ourselves with other similar communities in the North Texas area and beyond. We also plan to tap into the Stonebridge Ranch community as part of the process will include surveying interested residents. If you are interested in sharing your opinion, please keep your eyes open for requests for input over the coming months through the magazine, e-blasts and other SRCA communication tools. Campbell hopes to communicate updates to the community on a quarterly basis. One of the overarching goals of the Capital Improvement Plan is to preserve and enhance the quality of Stonebridge Ranch by offering attractive amenities and opportunities, which protect and improve the property value and financial health of the community. As Campbell points out, “It is all about taking care of our investment and continuing to keep Stonebridge the strong and vibrant community that we all chose to live in.” F

Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

your neIg hbor Resident Spotlight: Bill Williams by Sherine George

SB HOA News recently spoke with Bill Williams, Co-Chairman of the HOA Communications Committee.

First, why the Communications Committee?

By way of background, I joined the committee when the homeowners took over responsibility from Newland—2007, I think—and, except for a one year ”break,” I’ve been on it ever since. My background is with advertising and research companies, so I believe in communications and how they can create a feeling of community. The way we interact, and how often, is part of feeling connected: feeling informed is about belonging. Our research tells us most residents feel very informed about what’s happening in the community, and that’s the most important job of this committee.

What does the Communications Committee do?

We have two primary roles. The first is to gather and report “voice of the resident” information to the board and committees. We do that through the annual survey, focus groups, occasional pop-up surveys and word of mouth from residents to the association office. The second role is to manage the design and content of the community information channels: the website, monthly HOA News magazine, neighborhood signs, etc. We not only focus on current channels but are always evaluating new channels.

Are committee members all journalists or communications experts?

Not at all. Our current members John Campbell, Courtney Hugghins and Marc Christensen have varying degrees of experience in communications, but share a belief in the importance of making sure residents are connecting with each other and with the HOA. You don’t have to be a

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your neIghbor community. In the nine years we’ve been here the community has neared build out, new retail centers have bloomed and Adriatica is now humming, so a lot of changes in a very short period of time. But, what makes Stonebridge Ranch really special—the open spaces, lakes, unique village designs, social events and amenities—all these qualities endure.

What have you learned about Stonebridge Ranch by serving on the Communications Committee?

communications expert to believe in the value of getting people talking.

So, Communications Committee members wanted— no experience necessary! Absolutely! Just contact the HOA office and express your interest in joining.

How long have you lived in Stonebridge Ranch?

My wife Cheryl and I moved here in 2005 from Southern California. We found Stonebridge Ranch through a family member (our Frisco-based realtor knew nothing about Stonebridge Ranch). Like so many others, we fell in love with the overall design and appearance of the

Three important things: 1. The HOA board works really hard at making sure the community is well cared for and run responsibly. Hard to imagine an HOA anywhere that is more dedicated to maintaining what we have, while keeping a reserve for what we will need. The community is in really good hands. 2. The resident comments in the annual survey show we are a community of strong opinions, but strong opinions about how to make this a better community. So, that’s a good thing. 3. Finally, how truly dedicated committee members and volunteers are. They willingly share so much time and talent. I really recommend residents get actively involved on a committee. There is so much talent and experience in Stonebridge Ranch—it’s amazing what people here have to offer. F

Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

bIt s & pI eces Welcome Home Stonebridge Ranch Residents! On July 10, the association welcomed 25 new residents into the Stonebridge Ranch community. Residents mingled with fellow new homeowners and learned about their neighborhood through the guidance of board, committee members and SRCA staff that were present at the event. The event was co-hosted by both the Stonebridge Ranch Country Club and the SRCA. The goal of the event was to provide new owners the opportunity to learn more about the association and the country club while interacting with the association leadership and staff. The association had tables displaying information about the website, compliance, social events and amenities. Owners were able to visit with staff and get connected to their community while enjoying a live performance by vocalist and keyboardist, Debbie Pierot. Association leadership and staff received great feedback from new homeowners regarding the event. Here’s what two new homeowners had to say about why they moved to Stonebridge Ranch: “While we were still living in California, we visited different areas including Stonebridge Ranch. After our second visit to Stonebridge Ranch, we told our realtor not to bother with other areas and focus solely on Stonebridge. What attracted me the most were the buried power lines in most residential areas and hearing about the good schools—we have two small children and they were the main reason why we moved here. It had a small and friendly community feel. “Besides all that, Stonebridge Ranch is beautiful, clean and green. The buildings made from stone also give the community a romantic feel. We could also afford a much bigger home for our growing family, which we couldn’t do in California. Last, but not least, the Beach Club—our kids love it! “ —Ruta Gillette resides in Brightwood “We moved to Stonebridge Ranch in December 2013. We are delighted in the amount of care with which this community is kept. We have taken advantage of the many social events held here. We brag to everyone about the professionalism that is shown in this HOA and, in particular, the tennis club. We are blessed that our daughter has the privilege to be trained by some of the finest tennis coaches we know. These activities have added great new experiences for our family, which we so appreciate. We also attended the new homeowners party in July and really enjoyed meeting the board members and other new homeowners. Everyone made us feel so welcome! Thank you so much for all Stonebridge Ranch does to make this a top-notch community. “—John, Kristina and Katie Cox reside in Mayberry Park F

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landscape & grounds Landscape Management—Checks and Balances by Shannon Sheriff Did you know that the SRCA landscapers are paid based on their contracted performance? For more than 10 years now the association has hired the help of a third party consultant, OLM Landscape. Alongside management, OLM tours the property every month for two days. They determine if the landscapers are keeping up with their contracted specs and duties. The overall score is based on a point system. If the landscapers score anything under 90%, the contracted payment is reduced. Point reductions can be based on pests, irrigation, turf fertility, weed control, pruning and more. If there is an obvious oversight by the landscapers, more points can be deducted. To keep a little “my grass is greener” competition, the association has two landscaper vendors on site daily performing contracted work. If, at any point, there is a consistent pattern of neglect by one of the landscape companies, the association has the ability to review their agreements and reduce their designated areas, or put the area in question out to bid for work with a new vendor.

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Our landscape inspectors are well qualified to determine point reductions. The current inspector, Ed Jensen, is an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience. From earning a degree in ornamental horticulture from Clemson University to working with a landscape contractor as an account manager to being a landscape administrator for a commercial real estate developer and now 25 years of experience with OLM, Inc., he has interfaced with numerous landscapers and contractors nationwide. This cross section of experience is invaluable in evaluating the performance of landscape companies. OLM is licensed, bonded and insured and has been an industry leader for over 10 years. The time and effort OLM puts in towards every single detail of their job highlights their dedication to excellence and success. Through the help of OLM and our landscapers—Valley Crest and Precision Landscaping—the SRCA is able to fulfill its mission to preserve and enhance the quality and natural beauty of Stonebridge Ranch. F

lIfestyle St. Gabriel’s 7th Annual Charity Golf Outing The seventh annual St. Gabriel’s Charity Golf Outing will be Friday, October 3, at Ridgeview Ranch with a 1:30 p.m. shotgun start. Funds raised will be used to support the outreach ministries that serve the needy of McKinney and the surrounding community. There are many opportunities to support this great cause by becoming a sponsor or donating items for the raffle. Please join us for a great afternoon of fun and fellowship and help those in need by supporting the seventh annual St. Gabriel’s Charity Golf Outing. To sign up and get more information visit www.stgabriel.org/golf.

McKinney Area Newcomers Club If you are new to the McKinney area, come join us for fun, information and friendship. Every month we have great speakers, nice door prizes, tasty refreshments and lots of good socializing with new friends. Our monthly Coffee Meeting is a great way to find out about all the various social activities we offer. For more information on Newcomers, visit www.mckinneynewcomers.com. After a short business meeting, we will roll the ball and play BINGO. Please join the McKinney Area Newcomers meeting on Tuesday, September 16, in the Eva Joplin Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 5871 Virginia Parkway in McKinney. Social time with refreshments begins at 9:30 a.m.

McKinney Ladies Association Fall Yard Sale Take home big bargains while raising scholarship funds for the children of McKinney’s first responders on Saturday, September 20, at the McKinney Ladies Association’s community-wide Fall Yard Sale. MLA’s semiannual community-wide yard sales always draw hundreds of shoppers. Items for sale will include children’s and adults’ clothing, jeans, toys, furniture, household items, collectibles, strollers, bikes, yard equipment and much more. Shoppers are asked to donate $1 to enter the sale in the parking lot of Stonebridge United Methodist Church, 1800 S. Stonebridge Drive in McKinney. Be sure to get there early for the best bargains! The sale begins at 7 a.m. and ends at noon (rain or shine). All proceeds benefit college scholarships for the children of McKinney’s first responders. If you have gently-used items you would like to sell, please register with MLA as a vendor by September 15. Each vendor space costs $45 and is the size of one parking space; spaces are limited to the first 126 registered (no concession sales). Contact Connie Hollstein-Drexel at cjhollstein@aol.com for details or go to www.mckinneyladies.org to download and complete the registration forms. The forms and your payment must be received via mail on September 15. For more information, please go to www.mckinneyladies.org. F Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

socIal scene Stonebridge Ranch Triathlon Weekend On the weekend of September 27-28 at Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club bring out the whole family to race. Playtri invites the entire family out to enjoy our Stonebridge Ranch Kids Triathlon on Saturday, September 27, for ages 6-14, followed on Sunday, September 28, with the Stonebridge Ranch Intermediate and Sprint Triathlons for anyone age 13 and up. For more details and to register: Go to www.playtri. com/sbr. Stonebridge residents get $10 off their online registration by using discount code SBR. Want to volunteer? Contact info@playtri.com. The adult race is held on Sunday morning so weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to make sure residents are aware of the course and possible delays. Please allow an extra 20 minutes to get to your destination between 7:30 and 10:30 a.m. The participants are in a race atmosphere so please use caution when turning in and out of neighborhoods where you see cyclists or runners. We ask them to use caution as well. Police will direct traffic and they will do their best to get you where you want to go with safety as a top priority.

The course this year will be the same as last year. From the Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club, the cyclists will exit east on Virginia Parkway, head south on Ridge Rd, turn right and head west on Berkshire, turn left on Hillside, head west on El Dorado Pkwy, turn right and head north on Alma, turn right on Stonebridge Dr., turn right and head east on Virginia Pkwy. The runners will use the beautiful bike/run paths around the area and will only cross a few neighborhood entrances. Help us continue to showcase McKinney as a great lifestyle location in North Texas! Your patience and cooperation is greatly appreciated. For questions or more information, please call 214.697.6922.

Singles of Stonebridge The Social Committee has added a new monthly group into the mix: Singles of Stonebridge! Singles will meet on Tuesday, September 30, 7 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room at Stonebridge Ranch, 6201 Virginia Parkway. Appetizers and soft drinks will be provided.

Stonebridge Ranch Beach & Tennis Club 2014 Fall Junior Tennis Program Session Dates: September 2-25 September 29-October 23

10 & Under Tennisâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Mighty Mites (ages 4-6)

This class will get children off to a great start playing tennis using the new 10 & Under format introduced by the USTA using smaller racquets, larger balls and smaller courts. This class will enhance hand-eye coordination, movement, balance and begin grooving efficient stroke patterns. Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: $99 per month

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socIal scene 10 & Under Tennisâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Junior Development (ages 7-10)

This class teaches students the skills needed to play and enjoy tennis using the 10 & Under Format introduced by the USTA. Players will use low-compression balls and play on smaller courts. Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday (Choose 2 or 3 days per week) Time: 3:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: 2 days per week-$99/month 3 days per week-$139/month

Future Stars (ages 11 & up)

Future Stars is designed for beginner and intermediate tennis players ages 11 and up. Players will learn solid fundamentals so they will continue to improve and enjoy tennis. Days: Monday & Wednesday Time: 5-6 p.m. Cost: $125 per month

Tennis Academy

For players who are competing monthly in ZAT, Champ and Super Champ tournaments. Topics covered include stroke production, tactics and strategy, quickness drills, mental toughness and point play. Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Time: 4:30-7 p.m. Cost: $299 for two days per week/month $435 for three days/week/month $499 for four days/ week/month To register online, please visit www.TennisCoachDave. com or call Dave Wiest at 214.733.5810 or Luis Herrera at 214.733.5811.

Labor Day At The Beach Club 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 12 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 3:30 p.m.

Uptown Sound Disc Jockey (text 2144918283 to request a song) Tug Of War & Bouncy Ball Races (volleyball court) Paddle Boat Races (under 12 years must ride with an adult) Hula Hoop Contest (swimming pool and for all ages) Limbo (how low can you go) Sky High Prize Launching Contest (heads up) Stonebridge Ranch HOA News x September 2014

socIal scene Labor Day Hours of Operation Beach Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;10 a.m.-4 p.m. Aquatic Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Evening on the Veranda Swim Party Looking for a relaxing way to end a busy week? The Social Committee has planned a great event for you to enjoy the outdoors, listen to some great music and sip your favorite beverage. Grab a folding chair and join us at the Beach & Tennis Club located at 6201 Virginia Parkway. for an Evening on the Veranda on Friday, September 12, with The Spencer Cole Band. Pack your favorite beverage, grab a neighbor, a group of friends, your spouse, a date or come by yourself. Glass containers are prohibited, so be sure to purchase aluminum or plastic containers. This is an adult only swim party. The Beach and Tennis Club is smoke-free and you must be 21 years old to enter this event. Light snacks, sodas and water will be available. Gates open at 7 p.m. and live music begins at 7:30 p.m. Swimming will be allowed until dusk. Photo ID or current drivers license with a Stonebridge address is required and there is a $5 fee for non-resident guests. You can view the Spencer Cole Band at www.spencercoleband.com.

Home & Garden Show The Stonebridge Ranch Social Committee will host a Home & Garden Show at the Beach & Tennis Club on Saturday, September 20, from 9 a.m. until noon. The event will feature several area nurseries, informational booths, plant sales, raffle prizes, concessions and great music. Some of the vendors who have already confirmed include: The City of McKinney, Master Gardeners, Valley Crest Landscape Company, Precision Landscaping, HyperMotion Design and Landscape & More, Precision Fence and Deck, Advanced Tree and Shrub Care, Inc. and Flowering Funds, Inc. In addition, Sidekicks Karate will be selling drinks and snacks at this event as a fundraiser. If you have a home and garden type business and would like to participate in this event please contact Lifestyle Director Dave Wiest at dwiest@cmamanagment.com. F

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