Stonebridge Ranch September 2016 by Moonlight Graphics

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS SEPTEMBER 2016

Vol. 4, Issue 9

Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 5

From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia

This Month’s Feature

Compliance Tips

Strategic Plan

Community Calendar

Inside the Ranch

Around the Ranch

Social Scene

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SPECIAL SECTIONS 22

Resident Interest

Pet Page

Moonlight Graphics, P.O. Box 132, Allen, TX 75013, 972.727.4569, fax 972.396.0807. allenimage.com.

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from the presIdent STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

publisher/editor Barbara Peavy

office administrator Carrie McCormick

contributing writers Jon Dell’Antonia Erica Lee

cover photo Erica Lee This year’s Stonebridge Ranch Day festivities included a young resident practicing his tumbling skills in the grass at the Beach Club.

Board Meeting, July 21

Our annual celebration of Stonebridge Ranch on July 23 was a huge success. Over 1100 people visited our Beach Club pool (not all at the same time) and over 500 attended the evening concert on the circle followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the lake. The board meeting of July 21 was called to order at 1 p.m. All board members were present. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared. It was a lengthy meeting. The next item of business was to ratify the minutes of the previous board meeting and all decisions made since the last board meeting. We also approved the fall landscaping color choices. Fall landscaping will also be installed in front of the Fountainview monument once it has been replaced. In this month’s issue, you will also find an article outlining the association’s notification and fining process.

Old Business

The board received an update on the status of the Stonebridge Plaza construction project. The anticipated completion is late August or early September. The board approved construction contracts for the Custer Road entrance project. Construction is anticipated to begin in September. On our regular schedule of reviewing board governing documents, we reviewed and updated several financial related documents.

New Business

The board discussed with CMA some changes we would like to implement with regard to board members’ email accounts, and file storage and backup. A committee has been formed to make recommendations on how to improve our use of electronic technology. We also reviewed the agreement we have with the Smiles Charity for some needed updates and clarification. The board clarified the definition of what constitutes a “front yard” for compliance purposes. The front yard is defined as anything forward of both return fences on the lot. Corner lots have different requirements that did not change.

Executive Session

The board received an update from its legal counsel on several continuing issues. We reviewed four violations presented to the board for review and made appropriate decisions—two for driveways exceeding the allowed width, one for a missing tree and one for extensive unapproved modifications. Five requests for agreements, variances and contracts with developers of new villages were also reviewed and appropriate decisions made. We approved the foreclosure report that we review monthly.

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. We also reviewed updates to our Strategic Plan. Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in Committee minutes. The Social Committee was given oversight of the Community Room as they are the most frequent user of that room. The meeting adjourned at 7:14 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

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 Scott Albert—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 Amenity Officially Named Stonebridge Plaza When the Amenities Committee first began planning for the latest amenity in Stonebridge Ranch, they envisioned a new type of gathering place for residents to enjoy. They pictured an area where families and neighbors could gather to leisurely enjoy the outdoors, as well as a variety of activities from picnics to playground sports to pickleball. The project took on the unofficial title “Civic Plaza” during its infancy, a name which speaks to the spirit of the place: here will be a vibrant and relaxing location where residents of all ages can gather. Hopefully, residents who are strangers to each other will form new bonds of friendship here and long-lasting relationships will be strengthened. Naturally, because the word “civic” relates more to a city, township, or municipality rather than a private association of homeowners, the board desired to choose a different official title. Many ideas were considered. Ultimately, at their June 16 meeting, the board voted unanimously to name the new amenity Stonebridge Plaza, placing the emphasis directly on our unique community. This is a space built by and for the residents of Stonebridge Ranch. At the time this issue of the Stonebridge News goes to press, the Stonebridge Plaza project is not yet complete. The

first construction stages involved foundational groundwork as the crew built the park’s infrastructure. Heavy earthmovers graded the site, which then enabled the pouring of concrete over reinforcing steel. Underground water, sanitary, storm and electrical conduits were installed as well as above-ground fencing, light poles, handicapped parking sites and more. Though heavy spring rains initially delayed the project, with hard work and overtime hours, the construction team can see the end in sight. Barring any other weather-related or unexpected delays, the association expects that the plaza will be available for use before the autumn equinox. Grand opening ceremonies are planned (see page. 26 for details). Reminders of festivities can be found on the website community calendar and in association email blasts. (If you’d like to receive the association’s bi-monthly blasts, which feature important updates, helpful tips and event details, sign up today at www.stonebridgeranch.com.) Stay tuned for more details! The association looks forward to the day the construction fencing will be removed and we can all walk the sidewalks of the new Stonebridge Plaza. F

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complIance tI p s Postcard, Letter, Letter: The Guided Process of Compliance Communications Across Stonebridge Ranch this summer, likely due to the heavy spring rains, many native and landscape plants grew like weeds. The weeds grew quickly too, of course, leading to an increased need for ongoing yard maintenance over past years. If we knew the combined number of hours residents and contractors spent working in yards throughout our community, we’d likely be impressed. In fact, at each residence, if only a single weekly hour was spent on yard maintenance between June and August, the total number of hours spent in yard-to-yard communal upkeep would reach over 100,000! The association thanks all residents for their participation in these communal efforts. The premier aesthetic of Stonebridge Ranch cannot be maintained without our combined interest and energy. Happily, summer yard maintenance even managed to bring some Stonebridge neighbors closer together. Staff members heard a number of stories from residents who helped each other in their upkeep endeavors, from trimming hedges

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and mowing yards for each other, to working side-by-side to replant lawns. The members of the association’s compliance staff are also part of the yard upkeep story. In many instances, their mailed reminders regarding the need for yard maintenance provide the jump-start necessary to get the mower blades turning. Whether or not you have ever received a notification from the association regarding the need for yard maintenance, it is helpful to be aware of the communication process established in our association guidelines. The compliance staff follow a guided process of notification which, depending on the issue, begins with a postcard or a letter. For a simple overview of this process, see the chart ”Association Communication Process” on page 11 and keep in mind the following tips. 1. Association staff follow a guided notification process for a wide variety of issues. Though not limited to these types, Stonebridge Ranch residents often receive postcard and then letter reminders at intervals* regarding the

complIance tI ps following “curable” maintenance issues: the need for fence, landscaping, or exterior paint upkeep, as well as the need for trash can storage. The most common maintenance issues naturally follow the season of the year; for example, yard maintenance is usually a more pressing issue in the spring and summer. The communication process begins with a letter if staff need to communicate regarding an exterior modification issue, such as non-submittal of a modification application prior to beginning an exterior home project, or making modifications beyond what was originally approved via an application. 2. The association compliance staff is eager to communicate with you beyond this basic process. Our staff saves valuable association funds by adhering to a single process that includes automated steps. Because our community is so large, we utilize postcards and letters to initiate communication with homeowners. However, our staff also wants to help prevent confusion or frustration by rising to the level of communication that you need. If you receive a mailed notification from compliance staff regarding any issue, please do not hesitate to call the association office at 214.733.5800 with your questions. You are also welcome to stop by the association office (next to the Beach Club) at 6201 Virginia Parkway. Each Stonebridge Ranch village has an assigned coordinator who will work with you to resolve any concern.

3. The communication process takes time, and it’s personal. As you can see from the chart on page 11, notification is sent to a homeowner before the association will begin to assess fines. If you notice an ongoing issue in a another ’s yard, please be aware that although it may not be corrected overnight, this does not mean the issue hasn’t been addressed by the association. Further, state law protects the right of the homeowner to privacy, including the right to privacy of communication. If you notice a maintenance issue in a neighboring lot and notify compliance, be aware that association staff legally cannot disclose information about another homeowner ’s property to you. If you are a tenant renting in Stonebridge Ranch, the homeowner ’s right to privacy could affect you as well. In order to communicate directly with renters regarding a property, association staff must be authorized in writing by the homeowner to do so. Postcards and letters are always sent to the homeowner ’s listed mailing address, which may not be the rental address in Stonebridge Ranch. Though this right to privacy can cause a delay in correcting issues, when homeowners and tenants communicate with each other and with association staff, the process runs much more smoothly. Loralie M., a renter in Fountainview, was recently able to optimize her communication with Angie Beené, her village’s compliance coordinator. Loralie first became

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

complIance tI p s aware via text message from her homeowner that her front yard needed upkeep. The homeowner had received the first postcard from the association and directed Loralie to maintain the yard. Lacking any further detail from him, Loralie mowed thinking it would correct the issue. She didn’t understand that the length of the grass was not a problem; rather, it was the presence of clover, which is considered a weed. When the homeowner received second notice of the violation, he was upset and immediately contacted Loralie. That’s when she called the association wondering what she could do and why mowing had not fixed the issue. “I think renters are sometimes stereotyped as ‘people who don’t care.’ But I do care,” says Loralie. “I just needed to know what to do.” After her call to the office, association staff contacted her landlord on her behalf to request written consent of communication. When it was granted, Angie was able to call Loralie directly to work with her. “I was pleasantly surprised that Angie was friendly and understanding,” says Loralie. “She realized I hadn’t complied just because I didn’t understand what I needed to do. Now, in the future, if I need to, I know I can call her directly.” Not only has Loralie’s experience strengthened her relationship with the association, it has even inspired her further engagement in the Stonebridge Ranch community. She began to reach out to friends and neighbors for lawn care tips. “And I hired a neighborhood boy to do my lawn maintenance,” she says. “I want to support a local teen, and his schedule is flexible. My yard really picked up with his TLC.” Ultimately, the process of compliance simply requires time, effort and communication, both on the part of the association and on the part of residents. In the village of Fountainview this summer, for example, the fruits of this effort were realized in due course, as Angie worked with multiple homeowners to resolve a variety of issues. Between April and July, the village saw a truly impressive 70.5% decrease in the number of compliance communications sent by Angie. The association thanks all homeowners and renters for working with the compliance staff to address issues such as yard and fence maintenance. “I love it when residents, whether renters or homeowners, call me,” says Angie. “I’m a problem solver. Finding resolution together, like I did with Loralie, is what my job is all about.” *Associations in our state are required by state law to communicate directly with homeowners via mail within 30 days of the date their representatives observe a compliance issue. Because there is always a possibility of postal mishandling, the association also makes all such notifications available

online. The association recommends that homeowners log into their account at www.stonebridgeranch.com regularly. If any violation notices have been mailed, you can also read them directly in your account online. F

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complIance tI ps

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

strategIc plan update Turning the Corner: Fountainview Monument Project Reaches an Important Milestone Every monument sign in Stonebridge Ranch has a story. It begins with the plotting of its location and the original design idea, and it continues through its build cycle, all the years it withstands the elements, its inevitable deterioration, and ultimately, its repair or replacement. Along the way, the life cycle of a monument is affected by a host of factors, such as the weather it withstands through the years and the development of private plots and city streets all around it. Through it all, of course, each sign inspires emotion, too, standing as a monument to community, providing a familiar landmark for the people who live in surrounding houses. In recent years, unusual factors have affected the life cycle of the Fountainview monument at Custer Road and Fountainview Drive. In 2014, before the sign had reached a point of deterioration, the association was forced to remove it due to the widening of Custer Road by TXDOT. Anticipating its eventual resurrection after the widening project was complete, the board of the Stonebridge Ranch Association elected to put the still-usable sign in storage, hoping they might be able to reinstall or somehow reuse it at a future date. This was not to be. At the time the sign was removed, a City of McKinney engineer noted that if reinstalled, a monument sign at the location would likely require a 25’ setback from its original location. He cited a number of issues related to such a change, most importantly noting that the new setback distance would provide “a car or truck at the stop sign a full, unobstructed view of northbound Custer traffic” in compliance with the City of McKinney line-of-sight ordinance. In the spring of 2016, anticipating the completion of the Custer Road expansion project, the association board tasked the Landscape & Grounds (L&G) Committee with a special project related to their

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strategIc plan update

strategic goals: to determine if it would be possible to reinstall the preserved Fountainview sign near its

original location at the intersection. Volunteer Jay Miller, who serves on the committee, took the lead to research the feasibility of reinstallation. “I went out and took a look,” he said, “and I realized there was not an obvious place to put the monument now” given the existing entrance landscape design and the city’s setback requirements and line-of-sight restrictions.

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

strategIc plan update So Jay studied before and after pictures of the site, walked the sidewalk corner, and took detailed measurements at the intersection. “Believe it or not,” he says, “I found that the middle of the first arch in the monument wall along Fountainview Drive would be the perfect location for the monument sign” in order to meet the city set-back requirements. Vehicles waiting at the light could easily see northbound traffic with such a placement. “So I went home to my wife, Sue,” Jay says, “and I asked her: ‘Do you think it would look weird if we mounted the monument on the first arch in the wall?’” Sue encouraged Jay that it just might work. Jay presented the idea to the L& G Committee and to Tom George, board liaison to the committee. They all agreed with Sue: it would require further research, but it just might work. Tom presented the findings to the other board members. They were intrigued and “thought it was a decent idea,” Jay says. The next step was to determine if the foundation of the wall was structurally sound to support a monument sign, whether the cost would be justified, and whether a planting bed could be installed to provide color at the base of the monument. Research by stonemasons with Tejas Stone proved that reinforcement would be required when mounting any monument sign atop the existing stone wall. Following the construction company’s recommendations, Jay presented the committee with four options: reinforce the wall and refurbish the stored monument sign to better match other hardscaping throughout Stonebridge Ranch; reinforce the wall and purchase a new cast stone monument and wall cap; research a different place or way to install the monument; or save funds by doing nothing. The committee quickly determined that doing nothing was not an option. They wanted residents to have a restored monument as soon as possible. Given the city’s line-of-sight requirements, the committee also realized the location Jay had proposed provided the best solution. Ultimately, the committee determined that refurbishing the aging, stored sign by painting, paneling and re-lettering it would not be costeffective. The committee agreed and approved Jay’s second option—reinforcing the first arch in the existing stone wall and installing a new monument sign there. Following his key involvement in this challenging project so far, Jay says, “I’ve been surprised by what it takes” to see a project like this to fruition. He smiles. “I realized early on that there was no easy solution,

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strategIc plan update and it seemed crazy that using the existing wall would work. But it did work.” When he first considered joining the L & G Committee, Jay says that Tom walked him through what the commitment would mean. “He told me there would be times I’d need to make myself available and my time would be requested. He said, ‘You’ve got to get involved.’” Jay is glad he did. “I find it a very interesting way to make a contribution. At the end of the day, I can literally see what my contribution represents. I imagine members of all Stonebridge Ranch committees and the board members face similar challenging issues, including engineering, legal and practical, when taking on projects for the association. But it’s very satisfying to help.” At the time this issue of Stonebridge Ranch News goes to press, the project has already begun (see image on page 13, which was taken the last week of July 2016.) Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the monument install will likely be complete in September. The association thanks residents for their patience as this project continues to develop. Jay, the rest of the L&G Committee and the board are excited for the day the new monument sign will signal neighboring residents that they are almost home. F

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september 5 september 9 september 12 september 13 september 16 september 17 september 17 september 17 september 24 september 24 september 25

labor day at the beach 11 a.m. (BTC) evening on the veranda 730 p.m. (btc) book club 7 p.m. (cr) bingo night 7 p.m. (CR) concert in the circle 7 pm (btc) playdate in the park 9 a.m. (btc) coffee, cars & conversation 8:30 a.m. (BTC) stonebridge plaza grand opening party 11 a.m. (SP) kids triathlon 7:30 a.m. (btc) luau party 2 p.m. (btc) adult triathlon 7:30 a.m. (btc)

Walking Club, 8 a.m. (BTC)

Amenities Meeting, 7 p.m. (BR)

Labor Day at the Beach Club, 11 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 4:30-6:25 pm—Soccer Sparks (NHP)

Walking Club, 8 a.m. (BTC)

Visit www.StonebridgeRanch.com for event details.

Communications Meeting, 9 a.m. (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) 4:30-6:25 pm—Soccer Sparks (NHP)

Walking Club, 8 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 4:30-6:25 pm—Soccer Sparks (NHP)

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

Walking Club, 8 a.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 4:30-6:25 pm—Soccer Sparks (NHP)

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Coffee Talk, 8:3

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 Academ

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

MARC Meeting, 8:30 a.m. (BR) Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR) Bingo 7 p.m. (CR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

MARC Meeting, 8:30 a.m. (BR) Modifications Meeting, 6 p.m. (BR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Barre (BTC)

Coffee Talk, 8:3

Landscape & Gr Meeting, 7-9 p.m

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

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

Coffee Talk, 8:30

Social Committe noon (BR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller

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

Coffee Talk, 8:3

9:30-10:30 am—Stroll

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

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

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

30 a.m. (CR)

er Strides (BTC)

nnis Classes, my (BTC)

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

30 a.m. (CR)

rounds m. (BR)

r Strides (BTC)

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

ee Meeting,

r Strides (BTC)

nnis Classes, my (BTC)

Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)

30 a.m. (CR)

ler Strides (BTC)

ennis Classes, emy (BTC)

Evening on the Veranda, 7:30 p.m. (BTC) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

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

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

Concert in the Circle, 7 p.m. (BTC)

Playdate in the Park, 9 a.m. (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

nnis Classes, my (BTC)

0 a.m. (CR)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Stonebridge Plaza Grand Opening Party, 11 a.m. (SP)

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

Kid’s Triathlon, 7:30 a.m. (BTC)

9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)

Luau Party, 2 p.m. (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)

Stonebridge StonebridgeRanch RanchNews Newsx September x September2016 2016

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InsId e the ranch Wood vs. Breakaway: The Public Safety Advancement which Starts with a Stop Sign When the developers of Stonebridge Ranch first broke ground here in 1988, there were few roads and fewer traffic signs. Many of the roads that did exist were unpaved dirt between open fields. As the developers began to work with the City of McKinney to construct roads, they found an opportunity to mark the landscape with the Stonebridge Ranch brand by constructing upscale signposts at intersections. As you drive around Stonebridge Ranch today, you can still see a number of these earliest traffic markers. They are instantly recognizable: square wooden posts, painted white, which display the Stonebridge Ranch logo at the top. You can also see many traffic signposts that are not wooden or square or marked with the Stonebridge Ranch logo. Why? The answer is both simple and complex, influenced by many factors which include federal and state law, public safety and the cost-effective use of our community resources.

1. Federal and State Law and Public Safety

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In 2003, the federal Department of Transportation Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) included a new requirement aimed at saving lives: “Ground-mounted sign supports shall be breakaway, yielding, or shielded with a longitudinal barrier or crash cushion…” For all roads with posted speed limits of 50 mph or higher, the 2003 manual set a compliance target date of January 18, 2013. For all roads with posted speeds less than 50 mph, each highway agency was required to institute a feasible program to replace non-breakaway supports over time. The Department of Transportation noted state agencies could accomplish this task in part by replacing all damaged and/or deteriorating supports on an as-needed basis with the proper breakaway design. This federal requirement is duly listed in the Texas MUTCD and followed by the City of McKinney in the management of our streets. It has possibly saved lives or lessened injuries within our community’s own borders.

InsIde the ranch It also explains why two different types of posts are now seen throughout Stonebridge Ranch. In the early days following the 2003 requirement, most of the original post replacements were likely initiated by damage caused in traffic accidents. Today, however, deterioration is equally or more likely to cause the replacement of a 28-year-old wooden post with a metal breakaway one. Robyn Root, Traffic Engineer for the City of McKinney, has been on the job since 2002. She says, “You’d be surprised how the wooden poles age,” noting that in Texas, much damage to the original posts is actually caused by termites. “I’ve seen termites eat a lot of wooden poles,” she says. Annually, the City of McKinney earmarks funds specifically for their breakaway replacement program. “It’s too costly to replace them all at once,” Robyn affirms. “But eventually, we’ll replace all the original posts.”

2. Wise Stewardship of our Community Resources

When the wooden posts were first constructed in Stonebridge Ranch, they stood as unique markers denoting the boundaries of a nascent community. As they are a noticeable part of our landscape, residents may naturally wish we could keep them forever. Unlike the metal breakaway design, however, they are more dangerous if hit in a collision. They also require more upkeep. Over the years, the association has utilized both

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

InsId e the ranch

private vendors and on-site staff to keep the posts looking fresh with new coats of paint. But today, after build-out on over 5,000 acres of land, the amount of man-power and paint required to upkeep these thousands of aging wooden posts continues to rise. Similarly, the association must consider what would be the cost of installing decorative breakaway posts across our community. You may have noticed decorative breakaway posts in some areas of McKinney and wondered why more decorative posts are not installed in Stonebridge Ranch. Robyn points out that the city does not provide decorative posts; other organizations or homeowners bear the cost of installing anything other than the basic design you’ve seen here on our streets. Robyn says, “I understand the design of the original [Stonebridge Ranch] posts looks more substantial. I’d love to be able to put them back. But there is so much we must consider.” There are issues of cost, and state and federal law. The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association must consider these issues, too, as well as varied resident opinions. As you drive through our community, over the years you have seen more and more metal breakaway posts installed. They look the way they do, in part, to protect your safety. Further, cost must be considered. As in all other areas, when considering the design of stop signs in our community, the association continually seeks to allocate the annual budget wisely. F

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resId ent I n terest Moving Day Messes: Who to Call When Bulk Trash Items Become a Nuisance Anyone who has changed residences knows that moving day can be exhausting, even overwhelming. Sometimes people leave trash and bulky unwanted furniture behind on the curb rather than properly disposing of such items. This can lead to frustration for neighbors. Not only may the items block the sidewalk or street, but they create an eyesore and may present safety hazards. Stonebridge Ranch resident Leslie Kensler is all too familiar with this scenario. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a Wednesday,â&#x20AC;? she says, when she noticed a neighbor who was moving placing items

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resIdent Interest on the sidewalk. As the amount kept growing and growing, she called the association office. “I think I might have been a little bit angry when I called,” Leslie recalls with a sheepish laugh. Angie Beené, the compliance coordinator assigned to her village, took her call. Leslie quickly felt calmer. “She was totally listening to what I was saying,” Leslie notes. Because the issue was out of association jurisdiction—the City of McKinney is responsible for resident waste services and the maintenance of our sidewalks and streets—Leslie actually needed to call the city for resolution. But by calling Angie, she received valuable support. “She told me, ‘I’ll come take pictures,’” Leslie says. Angie also helped Leslie brainstorm before they ended the phone call. “She gave me a list of ideas to try besides calling the city,” says Leslie, such as calling a nonprofit to see if they could use the free furniture that had been left behind. Later that morning, after she had documented the issue and then contacted the current homeowner of the property, Angie called Leslie back. Says Leslie, ”Angie was surprised by the amount of trash, too. She was compassionate.” Though Angie could point Leslie in the right direction, and though she was familiar with the city’s collection policies regarding bulky items, she was unsure how the process worked when a home was vacated. Wanting to be able to provide more thorough information to residents who might call her in the future regarding similar issues, Angie called the city to learn more. She discovered that the city has a violation and escalation process relating to waste disposal. “It was a learning experience for me too,” Angie says. “I learned that when items are left behind, it can seem like nothing is happening. But all processes take time.” Depending on the types of waste items and whether the moving resident contacted the city prior to leaving, it can take days or even longer for pick-up. For example, if a moving resident requests a scheduled bulk pick-up correlating to their next trash day, bulk items will remain until then. However, Angie learned that residents can help the city by noting if items represent a health hazard or block a right-of-way. Because children can become trapped in appliances such as a freezer or refrigerator, an expedited response may be required to protect public safety. Bulk items that block traffic represent a similar safety concern. Leslie did what she could by following Angie’s tips after she first called her. But she was unhappily surprised when, the next day, she noticed that even more bulk items had been deposited across the street. Her frustration mounting, she called Angie and informed her of the escalating situation, noting that the pile had grown and was blocking a right-of-way. Angie talked her through it. In the end, Leslie saw the situation resolved that Saturday morning when city personnel arrived to remove

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

resId ent I n terest the trash and other items. Leslie immediately called Angie to thank her. “She never made me feel like my complaints were trivial,” Leslie says. “I cannot think of anything more she could have done to help me resolve the situation.” What’s more, Leslie says, “Angie gave me that extra step of empowerment. It’s one thing as a homeowner to be frustrated and angry. It’s another thing to do something about it.” She adds, “Sometimes we want someone else to fix the situation; we don’t want to get involved. But opening the lines of communication is key. I learned Angie is my partner and advocate, and that I’m her partner, too.” Association staff understands that situations involving waste items can be frustrating, and our coordinators can offer tips and support. Importantly, in such a scenario, the quickest way to find resolution is to contact the city directly, initiating civic processes which are in place to help you. The city and county further provide services to residents to help them properly dispose of bulk trash items. At the time of this article going to press, the city’s waste service provider offers special bulk pick-up services up to 12 times a year. See www.mckinneytexas.org/790/ Bulky-Item-Collection for details. Collin County also offers First Saturday Citizen Drop-Off Days; see www.collincountytx.gov/public_ works/Pages/trash_collection.aspx. F

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around the ranch

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

socIal scene Stonebridge Plaza Grand Opening It’s here! On Saturday, September 17 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., we will celebrate the grand opening of our newest amenity, Stonebridge Plaza (7501 Coronado Drive). Join us at 11 a.m. when Board President Jon Dell’Antonia will perform a ribbon-cutting ceremony. We’ll also have free hotdogs, burgers, chips and drinks (until supplies run out), Pickleball demos (with rackets and balls on hand for you to use), a balloonist, glitter tattoo artist, juggler and yard games. The Aquatic Center will also be open from 12 to 5 p.m.

Labor Day at the Beach Club Join us for an awesome and fun Labor Day at the Beach! We’ll be entertained by the sounds of DJ Uptown Sound (text 214.491.8283 to request a song). Beginning at 11:30 a.m., our day of games will start with bouncy ball races at the volleyball court, followed later by Tug of War, Sky High Ball launches, and Hula Hooping and Limbo contests. Stonebridge Ranch residents get in free. Guests (limit 3 per household) pay a $5 fee. Bring your coolers full of food, your towels and your folding chairs. No glass containers are allowed. Please note that the Beach Club Pool will be open on Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Aquatic Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Evening on the Veranda Looking for a relaxing way to end a busy week? Join us at the Beach & Tennis Club on Friday, September 9 for Evening on the Veranda from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Residents will be serenaded by the Metroplexers Band, which is known as the “biggest four-piece band in DFW” and plays a variety of dance and party songs from the 1950s to 1980s. You can preview the band at themetroplexers.com. The event is BYOB, so ask your spouse or neighbors along and be sure to pack your favorite libations and camp chairs. (Note that glass containers are strictly prohibited.) Also, be sure to arrange a babysitter, as this is an adultonly, non-swimming, smoke-free event. You must be 21 years to enter. Light snacks, sodas and water will be available. Gates open at 8:30 p.m. and live music begins at

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socIal scene 9 p.m. Photo ID is required, and there is a $5 fee for non-resident guests.

Bingo Night We love seeing old friends and new faces, and we are happy that our core group of Bingo players is growing! Come on out for an adults-only evening of bingo and prizes on Tuesday, September 13 from 7 to 9 p.m. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll meet in the Community Room at 6201 Virginia Parkway, and light snacks and refreshments (no alcoholic beverages) will be provided. Seating is limited to the first 30 who sign up at http://whoozin.com/EC7-JV6-H9NR. Stonebridge Ranch residents get in free and non-resident family guests pay a $5 fee.

Identity Theft Presentation Join us September 15 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Community Room at 6201 Virginia Parkway. Detectives Tina and Melissa Taylor of the McKinney Police Electronic Financial Crimes Unit will present tips to help you protect yourself. Some of the topics to be covered are: credit card theft, U.S. Currency and check forgeries, skimming devices, phishing scams, Facebook romances, dumpster diving, money laundering, ITunes gift cards, plus other cybercrimes. Additionally, the detectives will discuss past case studies and talk about current department activities. Please RSVP online at http://whoozin.com/KEQ-T6KQKA3

Concert on the Circle

Our last Concert in the Circle during July 4th weekend

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

socIal scene Upcoming October Events 10

Book Club

Evening Bingo

Evening on the Veranda

Coffee, Cars & Conversation

Playdate in the Park

Travel Club

New Homeowner Welcome Party

Halloween Spooktacular

Morning Bingo

Walking Club—Mondays Coffee Talk —Wednesdays TGIF Coffee—Fridays

was a huge success! Residents brought blankets, coolers, pets on leashes, folding chairs and snacks, relaxing together to the upbeat tunes of Coverband. Others enjoyed playing cornhole while listening, using the association’s new set of equipment. This special evening of community fun will be repeated on September 16 from 7 to 9 p.m. with a different artist. The 24-piece ACB Jazz band will wow us. Under the direction of Keith Petersen, the group is fast becoming known throughout the Metroplex, playing classical big band tunes as well as jazz tunes and more contemporary songs. They formed in 2015 and include a wide variety of members from all walks of life, including college students and retired folks. (The group’s parent organization is the Allen Community Concert Band, which is open to anyone who has an instrument and desire to play. Most of the jazz band players also play with the concert band, which rehearses every Tuesday evening. See www.allencommunityband.com for details.)

Coffee, Cars & Conversation + Playdate in the Park On Saturday, September 17, the association is hosting Coffee, Cars & Conversation in conjunction with Playdate in the Park. These two family-friendly events pair perfectly together. Parents, feel free to bring your kids up to the circular drive to see fancy and classic cars belonging to your neighbors, and then amble on down to the playground at the tennis courts. The car show lasts from 8:30 to 10 a.m. and donuts, hot coffee and water will be served until supplies run out. The playdate begins at 9 a.m. Both events are open to Stonebridge residents only. Be sure to check the Stonebridge Ranch website for any last-minute changes due to weather.

End of Beach Season Luau Party Aloha! Put your grass skirt on and come out to the Beach Club for a fun, island-themed party for all ages! We’ll be celebrating the end of summer in true island fashion from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 24. Leis will be provided at the entrance, and you’ll spend the afternoon jiving to the live music of band Secret Agent Man. All Stonebridge residents are welcome for free; guests pay a $5 fee. You are welcome to bring coolers and folding chairs, but remember: glass containers are strictly prohibited to protect the safety of residents.

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socIal scene Triathlon for the Whole Family Bring your whole family out to the Beach & Tennis Club for two days of thrilling energy! On Saturday, September 24, kids will show their athletic skills in the Playtri Kids Triathlon starting at 7:30 a.m. The next day, Sunday the 25th, adults can participate in the Intermediate, Sprint and Super Sprint Triathalons. For more details and to register, go to www.playtri.com/sbr. Want to volunteer? Email info@playtri.com. Even if you arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t attending the triathalon on Sunday, residents please be aware of the course as you are driving in the area between 7:30 and 10:30 a.m. Allow an extra 20 minutes for travel time. Use great caution when turning in and out of neighborhoods. McKinney police will be on hand to direct traffic. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do their best to get you where you are going on time, with safety for all as the top priority.

Weekly Meet-Ups Walking Club meets every Monday at 8 a.m. in the upper parking lot near the Beach Club. Coffee Talk meets every Wednesday from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room (6201 Virginia Parkway). TGIF Coffee meets from 1 to 2 p.m. every Friday in the Community Room.

Monthly Meet-Ups Book Club Please join us at the Community Room (6201 Virginia Parkway) on September 12 at 7 p.m. We will be discussing two books, A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle and The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson. Feel free to read one or both books. Sit-ins are always welcome even if you have not read our selections. We always delve into a lot of ideas at every meeting. Check the community calendar on the website for book selections for upcoming months. Book ideas can be emailed to dwiest@ cmamanagement.com. F

Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2016

”Armadillo”

Meet Armadillo! He’s a sweet 7-8 month old Catahoula puppy. He is a furry bundle of love and is looking for a family to love him back. Armadillo has been neutered, microchipped and has received all age-appropriate vaccinations. He has a lot of love to give someone special.

”Gidget”

Gidget, a 2-yearold orange tabby, is a very petite, laid-back girl. She is a little shy at first, but will warm up quickly! She’s been spayed, tested for FIV/ FeLV (she’s negative), microchipped and has received age-appropriate vaccinations. Your house will be such fun with her around! Armadillo and Gidget are waiting for you at Collin County Animal Services, 4750 Community Boulevard, McKinney, 972.547.7292.

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