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24
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS SEPTEMBER 2015
Vol. 3, Issue 9
Contents IN EVERY ISSUE 5
From the President by Jon Dell’Antonia
8
In the News
8
by Sherine George
10
Compliance Tips by Nate Russell
12
Inside the Ranch by Sherine George
16
Community Calendar
22
Resident Interest
24
From Your Neighbor
25
Around the Ranch
27 Lifestyle 28
Social Scene
SPECIAL SECTIONS 15
Bits and Pieces
18
Landscape & Grounds
20
Public Safety
26
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
publisher/editor Barbara Peavy
office administrator Carrie McCormick
contributing writers Jon Dell’Antonia Sherine George Michael Lesku Nate Russell
cover photo Sherine George
Management changes are coming to Stonebridge Ranch Mike Lesku, our Association Director for the past 8 years, is leaving us. He has accepted a promotion to Director of Strategic Planning and Projects at CMA corporate office. He will be missed as Mike has provided outstanding management of the association as well as guided us through the transition from a developer-controlled to a homeowner-controlled association. He is leaving big shoes to fill. The recruiting process for a replacement has already begun. In the meantime, Mike will continue as our Association Director until the new person is on board and the transition is complete. While we are sad to lose Mike, it is a tribute to his skills that he is being promoted to a new position within CMA, so congratulations to him.
July 30 Board Meeting
The board meeting of July 30 was called to order at 1 p.m. All board members were present. The meeting began with a Homeowners Open Forum. No homeowners appeared. The first item of business was to ratify all meeting minutes and decisions since the last board meeting.
Old Business
The board reviewed and approved an addition to the Disaster Recovery Plan to allow access to emergency financial support in the event of a disaster where funds are immediately needed. We also reviewed some of the conditions associated with our recently approved tax-exempt status with Canady & Canady, the firm that worked on this exemption for us. We adopted two new policies that we needed—a “Whistle Blower” policy and a Conflict of Interest policy.
New Business
Our association’s attorney reviewed the changes made in the last legislative session in Austin that impact HOAs. Fortunately for us, most of the new laws impacting HOAs are already part of our policies and procedures and will have no impact. We will be adopting a new set of guidelines as a result of new legislation that concerns the placement and operation of standby generators. We reviewed the auditor recommendation from our Finance Committee and accepted their selection to continue with our existing firm, DeVolt and Company, to perform our annual financial audit. The board then discussed the new open carry law as passed in the recent legislative session in Austin. We decided that we will post “No firearm” signs in all of our pool and park areas as well as the office at the Beach Club. We have our attorney reviewing the specific signage requirements of the new law. The board felt that firearms are not something we want in our parks and pools. We then reviewed the status of the Virginia entry project (just east of Virginia and Ridge), which should be completed by the time you read this. We also approved an agreement to have a firm do an audit of the sales taxes paid in the past four years to see if we can recover any erroneous payments. The agreement stipulates that findings are shared—they get half and we get half. There is no risk to us.
Executive Session
The board reviewed and approved the Collections report for delinquent accounts and heard an update on legal issues. We also reviewed and made appropriate decisions on seven homeowner violations that were presented for resolution. The board reviewed and approved a new three-year agreement starting on January 1, 2016, with our existing landscaping maintenance vendors. The new contracts have an average increase over the term of about 1%/year. Director of Operations Lesku reviewed outstanding legal issues with the board.
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 perennial test beds, meeting with McCaskill Design team and Amenities Committee for the design of the Aquatic center additions and enhancements, Community Room expansion and the Top Ten Irrigation Meter project. Board liaisons presented updates on committee activities reflected in committee minutes. The meeting adjourned at 5:55 p.m. Jon Dell’Antonia President
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 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 Renee Mooney—Receptionist Laura Parker—Receptionist 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 Richard MacFee—Treasurer Michael Yon—Secretary Norm Counts—Director 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 Stonebridge Ranch Day by Sherine George Approximately 1000 Stonebridge Ranch residents
attended the two-day event in honor of Stonebridge Ranch. Residents were abuzz celebrating the community’s 27th
anniversary. “We were extremely fortunate to have CMA and the Social Committee members work hard to ensure
that this day was a beautiful success,” said Michael Yon, board member and liaison to the Social Committee.
Following the past two years’ tradition, Stonebridge
Ranch Day got off to a great start with classic cars lining the Beach Club on Saturday morning. About 80 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.
Over $1050 was donated to the Salvation Army, along
with hundreds of cans of food. The Salvation Army was on
hand at the event and was very pleased with the donations.
Food trucks at the Beach Club offered residents options
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In the news Band earned rave reviews. The evening was topped off with a beautiful fireworks show accompanied by live music.
ranging from Kona Ice to Cajun Tailgators and Snowball
Express. In the afternoon, residents enjoyed Stonebridge Ranch Trivia and a game of Skyhigh. Prizes such as
footballs, floating toys and even a guest pass to the Beach Club were awarded to the winners. In the midst of the
Yon also adds that, “As Stonebridge Ranch residents,
we are fortunate to live in such a unique and beautiful
community. Therefore, an event celebrating Stonebridge Ranch is a great opportunity to show our tremendous community pride.� F
celebrations, Lifeline Aquatics also organized an entertaining volleyball tournament.
New attractions at the Kid Zone, including an extreme
water slide, were a huge success and the Maylee Thomas
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
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complIance tI p s Replacing Your Fence? by Nate Russell With the weather finally starting to cool off, now is the perfect time to get out and make some improvements to your property. Just remember to talk to your friendly Stonebridge Ranch Compliance Coordinator before you begin! Here is a list of common projects that need an approval before you start: arbor, pool, spa, waterfall, gazebo, deck, patio, shed, swing set, play-sets, playhouse, additions, remodels or fences. One of the most common areas of confusion is fences, so let’s take a quick moment to look at the guidelines. There are typically two different categories of fences. Privacy fences help screen personal areas from public view, and open metal fencing enhances the views to and from amenity areas such as golf courses, lakes and open spaces. Some general rules when replacing any fence are: 1. When connecting to a higher or a lower fence or column, your fence should “step” to meet it. You can have a
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maximum of a one-foot step. Also, when constructing a fence on a sloped surface, your fence should “step to move” with the slope.
complIance tI ps
2. Make sure that your fence has a setback distance of at least ten feet from the front right and left corners of your house. 3. Pickets are to be placed on the exterior side facing the public and the posts on the interior side. 4. Make sure to avoid the following materials: lattice panels, spruce, pine, oak, chain link, wire, plastic, bamboo, rope and sheet metal. When replacing a privacy fence it is important to note the following: 1. No fence may be taller than six feet. 2. Privacy fences should be constructed of cedar or redwood, with posts constructed of steel pipe columns, cedar or redwood.
3. Only one kickboard is allowed at the bottom of the fence. 4. Trim cap is required. When replacing open metal fencing it is important to note the following: 1. No fence shall be taller that 4’11�. 2. Please submit all metal fence designs to the modifications committee for approval. 3. Metal needs to be properly prepared, primed and painted flat black. Any extensions of existing subdivision fences need to be stained the same color as the existing fence. Please bear in mind that these are just some general guidelines for fence replacement. You can find all of our guidelines at www.stonebridgeranch.com. It is also important to note that your subdivision may have additional guidelines to follow. Remember, it is easy to submit an application for any modification you wish to do. Just log into your Stonebridge Ranch account at www.stonebridgeranch.com and fill out an application. If you would like to drop it off personally, feel free to come by the office located at 6201 Virginia Parkway, McKinney. We will be happy to answer any questions you might 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.
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
11
InsId e the ranch What does CMA do for Stonebridge Ranch? by Sherine George Stonebridge Ranch
Community Association’s
(SRCA) Board of Directors contracts with CMA
Management to handle the
day-to-day management needs of Stonebridge Ranch.
Stonebridge Ranch has been
professionally managed by CMA for over 23 years. CMA was
selected as a recipient of the
prestigious American Business
Ethics Award and also honored
as a winner of the Greater Dallas Business Ethics Award. CMA employs some of the most
prestigious management professionals, many who have been awarded the PCAM designation, the highest
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designation in the community association industry. “We
really appreciate our partnership with Stonebridge Ranch.
InsIde the ranch Successful communities and businesses are built on trust, shared values and an
unwavering commitment to excellence, and I
believe that’s the foundation of our enduring relationship,” says Judi Phares, President, CEO and co-founder of CMA.
“CMA provides professional management
to our association along with independent accounting and financial services. We also
benefit from their guidance gained from their long years of experience with homeowners associations,” adds SRCA Board President, Jon Dell’Antonia. Stonebridge Ranch is
supported by two sets of staff: the onsite team and the corporate team. The nature of your
question or issue will determine which group is best suited to provide you the assistance you are seeking.
The onsite team is made up of 14 full-
time and part-time employees that manage
the day-to-day operations of the association.
Those services include bi-weekly compliance inspections of all 9,218 homes and the
processing of Modification Applications.
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
13
InsId e the ranch Additionally, staff has oversight of the 18 vendors
contracted by the association’s board of directors. These
services include landscape maintenance, lake maintenance,
also email staff by visiting the association website and by clicking on the “Contact Us” tab.
The CMA Management corporate team, located in
website hosting, legal services, common area patrol
Plano, provides support to the residents of Stonebridge
association pools.
assists residents with general inquiries and owner account
services and the maintenance and oversight of both Onsite staff also provides operations, maintenance and
oversight of the tennis facility and tennis programs as well as the planning and execution of the social event calendar
totaling over 100 events per year. Onsite staff maintains the association website, www.stonebridgeranch.com,
distributes the bi-weekly e-news and produces the monthly magazine, Stonebridge Ranch News. Monthly inspections are also performed for all 519 acres of common area landscaping.
The Stonebridge Ranch Director of Operations, Mike
Lesku, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, has two primary
responsibilities: to carry out policies set by the board and to manage the association’s daily operations. The onsite office is located at 6201 Virginia Parkway, next to the Beach Club.
Ranch through the following services: a call center which specific needs; processing of payments for all association
expenses; accounting support including the preparation of monthly financial reports; collection of all association
assessments and reminders regarding delinquent accounts; a closing department which handles preparation of Resale Certificates and the transfer of ownership; IT technical
support services for computers and telephones; Human
Resources services to ensure our benefits are in line with industry standards and to recruit and assist in the hiring
process; and staff to interface with banking and investment institutions to assist the association in finding the highest
rate of return on their monies and ensuring that operational funds are 100% FDIC insured.
The CMA Management corporate office is located at 1800
Staff is available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to
Preston Park Blvd., Suite 101, Plano. Staff is available Monday
(nights and weekend), the Courtesy Patrol is available to
the Plano office at accountservices@cmamanagement.com or
5 p.m. If you need to contact the association after hours
assist residents and can be reached at 214.794.4945. You can
through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also email contact customer service at 972.943.2828. F
So Who Do I Call For My Inquiries? Please contact the CMA office at 972.943.2828 for inquiries regarding: • Billing • Refinance • Making payments over the phone • Resale certificates Please contact your local SRCA office at 214.733.5800 for inquiries regarding: • Modifications Applications (when making a change to the exterior of your home) • To report any concerns regarding Stonebridge Ranch common areas • Website or HOA News • Pool IDs • Pool Schedule 1 4 www.stonebridgeranch.com
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 buttonups, visors and baseball caps. The merchandise is available in a selection of colors and you can even pick the color of the Stonebridge 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 Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
15
Labor Day at the Beach Club, 11 a.m. (BTC)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (CR) Book Club, 7 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (CR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Adult Triathlon, 7 a.m. (BTC)
Walking Club, 9 a.m. (CR)
MARC Meeting, 8 a.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
ARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
Modifications Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (BR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR) Travel Club, 9 a.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
ARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR) Board of Directors Meeting, 1 p.m. (BR) Modifications Meeting, 5:30 p.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC) 3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
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
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
MARC Meeting, 8 a.m. (BR)
Coffee Talk, 8:30
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)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller
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3:30-7 pm—Junior Tenn Select Tennis Academ
0 a.m. (CR) Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
Playdate in the Park, 9 a.m. (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) 9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
Visit www.StonebridgeRanch. com for event details.
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR) Evening on the Veranda, 7 p.m. (BTC)
Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
ee Meeting, Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
Communications Committee Meeting, 9 a.m. (BR)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
Coffee, Cars & Conversation, 8:30 a.m. (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
0 a.m. (CR)
TGIF Coffee, 1-2 p.m. (CR)
Kids Triathlon, 7 a.m. (BTC)
Amenities Meeting, 7 p.m. (BR) Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
a.m. (CR) Strides (BTC)
nis Classes, my (BTC)
3:30-7 pm—Junior Tennis Classes, Select Tennis Academy (BTC)
9:30-10:30 am—Stroller Strides (BTC)
september 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 Coffee Talk 8:30 a.m. (CR) september 4, 11, 18 & 25 tgif coffee 1 p.m. (cr) september 3 PlayDate in the Park 9 a.m. (BTC) september 7 labor day at the beaCH club 11 A.m. (btc) SEPTEMBER 11 EVENING ON THE VERANDA 7 p.m. (BTC) SEPTEMBER 14, 21 & 28 WALKING CLUB 9 A.M. (CR) SEPTEMBER 15 travel club 9 a.m. (cr) SEPTEMBER 19 COFFEE, CARS & CONVERSATION 8:30 A.M. (BTC) SEPTEMBER 26 KIDS TRIATHLON 7 a.m. (BTC) SEPTEMBER 27 ADULT TRIATHLON 7 a.m. (BTC)
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
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landscape & grounds Perennials in the Landscape by Sherine George
Even when the rain stops, perennial beds demonstrate that the show must go on. They survive dry conditions while adding distinctive color to landscape and grounds. Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) board member and liaison to the Landscape and Grounds Committee, Tom George shares details on the perennial beds that were planted in various parts of the Stonebridge Ranch community.
SRCA: Why plant perennial beds? What are they exactly?
TG: Perennials are plants (mostly flowering) that last for two or more years without having to be replanted. This is in contrast to annuals which are plants that must be replanted every year. So one obvious benefit of perennials is once they are planted, they last for multiple years. Another benefit is perennial plants
are generally more drought tolerant and require less water. Given the drought conditions we have experienced the past few years, perennials are a good choice to conserve water.
SRCA: Where in the community are the perennials being planted? TG: There are eight locations where perennial test beds have been planted this year. The locations are entrances to the following villages: Aspendale, Cascades, Canterbury Crossing, Hickory Hill, Quail Creek, Stanford Meadow, The Enclave and Woodhaven.
SRCA: What was the process used in deciding the type of perennials?
TG: The locations were selected by the Landscape and Grounds Committee. They chose locations that varied in size from small to large and entrances that were in need of an upgrade.
SRCA: What sort of results can we expect to see?
TG: Perennials have a distinctive look with a variety of sizes, leaf color, flower color and blooming season. The idea is to blend the various plant types and stagger the blooming times so there is ongoing color throughout the season. All perennials will go dormant in the winter. By adding a variety of rock and background evergreen plants, the beds will retain interest during the winter months. Generally, the peak blooming season for perennials is shorter than for annuals. Homeowners should be patient during the first planting year since it will take one to two seasons before the perennials become established.
SRCA: Will the entrances look just as nice as before?
TG: The perennials will be an attractive addition to the
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landscape & grounds SRCA: Will we be planting annuals again?
TG: The plan is to continue to use annuals throughout Stonebridge Ranch. If the perennial test sites meet the Landscape and Grounds Committee’s expectations, then additional village entrances will be converted to perennials. Long term, the expectation is to have a blend of perennials and annuals throughout Stonebridge Ranch creating eye appeal and preserving homeowner value.
SRCA: How will the perennials add value to Stonebridge Ranch?
entrances. The colors will change with the season. It will take about 24 months for the perennials to be fully established and achieve peak bloom color. The maintenance plan is somewhat different from annuals in that once the perennials go dormant, they must be trimmed and weak plants must be replaced. Perennials are drought tolerant and so will be less affected by long periods of little to no rain. Drip irrigation has been installed in all of the perennial test sites.
TG: Perennials are a good choice in creating a distinctive and modern look to Stonebridge Ranch. Using drought tolerant plants will help reduce water usage. Eliminating the need to replace the annuals at all village entrances every year is a more conservative and responsible approach to plant selection. Adding stone and interesting rock shapes will complement the perennial beds. The goal of the Landscape and Grounds Committee is to refresh the landscaping and maintain aesthetic appeal for homeowners and visitors that drive the many villages that make up Stonebridge Ranch. F
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
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publIc safety Food Safety During a Power Outage September is National Preparedness Month. Power failures can be one of the most frustrating— and disabling—occurrences in a community. Whether caused by summer storms, power lines crippled by winter ice, equipment failure, an overloaded regional grid or an animal disrupting a power line, electrical outages can be costly, uncomfortable, and without forethought, sometimes even dangerous. Residents can face many hazards when a power failure occurs, including losing refrigerated and frozen foods. However, if you’re prepared, some food items can be salvaged.
In anticipation of a power failure:
• Have at least one or two coolers on hand and at least one spare 5-pound bag of ice in the freezer.
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• Know where to get bag, block or dry ice quickly when you need it, particularly if you anticipate a long-term
publIc safety outage. (Caution: dry ice is made from carbon dioxide, so it requires safe handling. Never breathe in its vapors or touch it with your bare hands.) According to the Food Safety Branch of Kentucky’s Department of Health, a 50-pound block of dry ice will keep a tightly packed, 18-cubic-foot freezer cool for up to two days. • Have an instant food thermometer or appliance thermometer available to ensure your freezers, refrigerators and coolers are staying cool enough to store food safely. • Arrange the refrigerator and freezer efficiently. Frozen food will last longer in a full freezer—up to 48 hours if tightly packed—and refrigerated food will last longer— up to four hours—if there is room for air to circulate around items.
When the electricity goes off:
• Avoid opening and closing the refrigerator unless absolutely necessary. • Cook and use perishable food before using canned food. • Check the temperature of refrigerated foods if the power is out for more than a few hours. Discard any food item than has been at 40°F or warmer for two or more hours. Exceptions include butter and margarine; hard cheeses like parmesan and Romano; some condiments like mustard, peanut butter, soy sauce, olives and vinegar-based salad dressing; and fresh, uncooked fruits and vegetables. • Check the temperature of frozen foods as well. While tightly-packed freezer foods will stay frozen for many hours, some items that may have thawed can be refrozen if they still retain ice crystals or have remained at a temperature lower than 40°. Fruit and vegetable juices; breads, rolls and piecrusts; flour, cornmeal and nuts; meat and chicken; and prepared foods and casseroles can be refrozen safely if they have not been at 40°F or warmer for more than two hours. • After the power comes back on, you may need to deodorize the refrigerator and freezer by washing surfaces with a solution of 2 tablespoons baking soda dissolved in a quart of warm water. Place an open box of baking soda inside the refrigerator to absorb any lingering odors. Since the appearance and odor of a food item isn’t an accurate indication of its safety after a power outage, use the 40° rule-of-thumb. And when in doubt, discard the food. While power can go out any time, most power failures occur between mid-July and late September. But no matter when our community experiences an outage—and it inevitably will—knowing how to handle frozen and refrigerated foods can help keep your food supplies safe until the lights come back on. F
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
21
resId ent I n terest Stonebridge Pocket Parks by Sherine George
One of the lesser-known amenities in Stonebridge Ranch includes the community pocket parks and playgrounds. Did you know that there are 12 pocket parks in Stonebridge Ranch? Perhaps you have already spotted a few while passing through your neighborhood. The parks include everything from slides to swings to climbing equipment. All 12 parks are property of, and maintained by, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA). The following list of parks can be found on our website, www.stonebridgeranch.com, under the Amenities drop-down menu on the Stonebridge Ranch Parks page. There you will find pictures and Google Maps indicating the exact location of each park.
Park Location Wren Creek Pocket Park
1701 Camberton Drive
Wyndsor Grove Pocket Park 704 Glendevon Drive Woodhaven Area Pocket Park 1121 Woodcliff Drive Nora Haney Park
Lake Forest between Glen
Standford Meadow
2504 Wingate Lane
Willow Brook Pocket Park Arbor Glen Pocket Park Fountainview Park Eagle Creek Quail Creek
Saddlehorn Ridge
Beach and Tennis Club Park
Oaks and El Dorado
5912 Berkshire Road
2019 Springcress Drive 2805 Ozark Cove
8001 Owl Creek Lane
5003 Quail Creek Drive 300 Saddlehorn Drive
6201 Virginia Parkway
The Social Committee has developed a fun way to see and experience our community parks by creating Playdates in the Park every month for the next 12 months. In the upcoming months, Stonebridge Ranch News will highlight each one of our 12 pocket parks and feature details about the playdate at that particular park. Not only will you have the opportunity to enjoy parts of Stonebridge that you may not have known existed, but
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resIdent Interest you will be in the company of likeminded moms and dads! This is a great way to meet new neighbors and enjoy one of the many reasons that make Stonebridge Ranch a great place to live. The first Playdate in the Park will be on September 3, at the Beach and Tennis Club Park. This park can be found at the north edge of Stonebridge Lake adjacent to the tennis courts. Come out for some outdoor fun and live music with interactive children’s songs. F
Beach and Tennis Club Park
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
23
from your neI g hbor Culinary Classics From Your Neighbor Kathleen’s Chili 1 lb. ground beef
8 oz. can tomato sauce
15 oz. can peeled tomatoes
15 oz. can pinto beans w/jalapenos, drained 1 c. diced onion
1 c. diced green pepper Garlic to taste
1 Tbs. chili powder 1 Tbs. cumin
1/2 Tbs. crushed basil leaves 1 tsp. sugar Salt to taste
Brown meat in a skillet and drain off fat. Put meat
aside on a plate. Saute onion and green pepper until soft. Add beef back in and add all the other ingredients. Simmer at least 45 minutes, but longer is better.
Just a hint: the flavors blend overnight and the chili
is even better the second day. This recipe serves 3-4 people, depending on serving size.
Dena Hill and her husband, Michael, have lived in
Stonebridge Ranch since 2011. They currently live in
Summer Point with their high-spirited border collie/
German short-haired pointer rescue puppy named Lila Blue.
“We’re a blended family. Michael’s kids, Paul and
Sarah, are grown now. Paul is an attorney and lives near Annapolis, Maryland, with his family, and Sarah works
as a family counselor in Tacoma, Washington,” explains Dena.
Dena is a freelance writer and author with a passion
for arts and entertainment writing and classic film. She is also the founder and director of the upcoming McKinney Classic Film Festival (mckinneyclassicfilm.com) at the McKinney Performing Arts Center (MPAC).
“The recipe is from my dear friend Kathleen who
passed on some years ago. She had shared this recipe
with me not long after we first met, and it reminds me of the many times we enjoyed it together, usually served
with a fresh green salad. It’s still my favorite chili recipe, and I’ve made it many times for family and friends, “ shares Dena.
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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
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
25
”Rusty” his company! He is a gentle and quiet dog, but not shy. He loves meeting people of all ages and gets along with everyone, including kids and other dogs. Rusty is house trained, but after being in the shelter he might need some time to remember his house training rules. He has been neutered, microchipped and has received age-appropriate vaccinations. He has also been dewormed and received flea/tick preventatives. What more could you ask for? #141704
Meet Rusty, a 10-year-old male Chihuahua/Rat Terrier mix. He arrived at the SPCA because his previous owner was moving to an apartment. He weighs 13 lbs., which makes it easier for you to hold and cuddle with him. He’s calm and never pulls on the leash when going out for walks, which can help you enjoy the day and
”Chicken”
Meet Chicken, a 2-year old domestic shorthair mix whose name fits perfectly! She likes your attention, but a lot of the time you’ll find her hiding behind her cat friends. When you stay with her for a while, she becomes less shy but she’ll need patience when she first comes home with you. She was surrendered to the SPCA because her owner had too many animals. Now she’s here with some friends and she’s looking for her furr-ever home! Chicken has been spayed, tested for FIV/FeLV (she’s negative), microchipped and has received age-appropriate vaccinations. #140118 Rusty and Chicken are waiting for you at the SPCA of Texas’ Perry Animal Care Center in McKinney at 8411 Stacy Road. Call 214-742SPCA (7722) or visit www.spca.org.
2 6 www.stonebridgeranch.com
lIfestyle McKinney Ladies Association
The McKinney Ladies Association will begin their new membership year on September 14. The location for the first event is Éclair Bistro off the Square in Downtown McKinney. We are so excited that Chef Aaron Thomas is hosting our event at Éclair! They will provide a sample of appetizers for us to try as we re-connect with old friends and meet new ones. Join us Monday, September 14 at 7 p.m., 216 E. Virginia St., McKinney. They have special parking for their guests directly across the street from the restaurant. MLA is also beginning a membership drive. If you join either online or in person the night of our first meeting, you will be entered to win a gift certificate to a local restaurant or spa. MLA is pleased to offer rolling annual memberships. That means when you pay MLA’s $50 annual membership dues, your membership will not expire for the next twelve months. For more information about our organization, please visit www.mckinneyladies.org or email us at mckinneyladies@yahoo.com.
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 Please join McKinney Area Newcomers at its meeting at 10 a.m., Tuesday, September 15, 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. F Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
27
socIal scene allow an extra
Labor Day at the Beach Club
20 minutes for travel
11 a.m.-4 p.m.
UPTOWNSOUND (playing all of your favorite tunes Text 214.491.8283 to request a song.
11:30 a.m.
Bouncy Ball Races (volleyball court)
neigh
12 p.m.
Tug of War (volleyball court)
course will be
12:45 p.m.
Sky High Ball Launching (swimming pool)
last year with
1:30 p.m.
Hula Hoop Contest (volleyball court)
2:30 p.m.
Limbo (volleyball court)
3:15 p.m.
Sky High Prize Ball Launching (swimming pool)
ATTENTION! The Beach Club Pool will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Labor Day. The Aquatic Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
time. Use
great caution
when turning in and out of borhoods. The
the same as the swim
taking place in the small lake just
behind the Beach and
Tennis Club. From there, the cyclists will exit east on
Virginia Pkwy., turn right on Ridge Rd., turn right heading West on Berkshire, turn left on Hillside, turn right on El
Dorado Pkwy., turn right, head north on Alma, turn right and continue south on Stonebridge Dr., turn right and head east on Virginia Pkwy. The runners will use the
Stonebridge Ranch Triathlon Weekend
beautiful bike/run paths in 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, please
call 214.697.6922. *Stonebridge residents get $10 off with the following code: SBRresident.
Evening on the Veranda Looking for a relaxing way to end a busy week?
Perhaps a local spot where you can enjoy the outdoors,
listen to some great music and sip on your favorite wine? Grab your folding chair and join us at the Beach and The entire family is invited September 26-27, at
Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club. Bring the entire family out! Let the kids have fun with the Playtri Kids
Triathlon on Saturday, September 26, followed on Sunday, September 27, with the Intermediate, Sprint and Super
Sprint Triathlons. For more details and to register: go to
http://www.playtri.com/sbr. Want to volunteer? Contact info@playtri.com.
Traffic Concerns: Sunday morning, residents please be
aware of the course. Between 7:30 and 10:30 a.m., please
2 8 www.stonebridgeranch.com
Tennis Club on the second Friday in September for
Evening on the Veranda. Bring a neighbor, group of
friends, your spouse or a date on Friday, September 11,
from 7:30-9:30 p.m., and enjoy entertainment by musical guest Toney Walsh. Toney’s repertoire includes popular
standards by Frank Sinatra, Toney Bennett, Nat King Cole, Harry Connick, Jr. and Mel Torme. Also, as a native of
Memphis, Tennessee, Toney loves to perform the classic hit songs of Elvis Presley. You can view Toney at Toneywalsh.com.
Don’t forget to pack your favorite libation. Glass
socIal scene containers are prohibited, so be sure to purchase
aluminum or plastic containers. Line up a babysitter! This
is an adult only, non-swimming, smoke-free event and you must be 21 years of age to enter. Light snacks, sodas and water will be available.
Gates open at 7 p.m. and live music begins at
7:30 p.m. Photo ID is required and there is a $5 fee for non-resident guests.
Playdate in the Park Starting September 3, this will be a monthly playdate
for kids and adults to get together, make new friends and explore a new park every month.
Did you know that there are a total of 12 “pocket parks”
within the Villages of Stonebridge? We will meet in a different pocket park on the first Thursday of the month, 9-10 a.m. September 3—Beach and Tennis Club playground October 1—Wyndsor Grove November 5—Wren Creek
Let’s play!! Please check the website and e-news for
any changes or additions at www.Stonebridgeranch.com.
Coffee, Cars & Conversation Saturday morning monthly social group! Can’t make
it to our weekday Coffee Talk? Join us for refreshments at our upcoming Coffee, Cars & Conversation on Saturday,
September 19, 8:30-9:30 a.m., SBR Community Room (near the entrance of the Beach Club). Stonebridge residents
only. Coffee, water and donuts will be provided. Bring your classic/fancy car to park in the circular drive!
“A cup of coffee shared with a friend is happiness
tasted and time well spent.”
Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
29
socIal scene Book Club
Love to read? We’re looking for you! We will be meeting in the Community Room the second Monday of the month, 7-8 p.m. For the first meeting, bring or talk about your favorite book and a list of books you would like to read next. See you September 14! Please check the website and e-news for any changes or additions, www.Stonebridgeranch.com. To sign-up for e-news, go to “community information,” use drop down menu, click on “sign-up for e-news”.
Walking Club Looking for a buddy to walk with? Take a stroll, dog
walker, serious mile walkers. Everyone is welcome!
Meeting every Monday at 9 a.m., starting September 14. Meet at Stonebridge upper parking lot.
Please check the website and e-news for any changes
or additions, www.Stonebridgeranch.com. To sign-up for e-news, go to “community information,” use drop down menu, click on “sign-up for e-news.”
Stonebridge Ranch Beach and Tennis Club 2015 Fall Junior Tennis Program Session Dates:
August 24-September 17
September 21-October 15 October 19-November 12
November 16-December 17
10 & Under Tennis—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
Cost:
$99 per month
Time:
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3:30-4:30 p.m.
socIal scene 10 & Under Tennis—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 per month
3 days per week/$139 per 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, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Cost:
2 days per week/$149 per month
Time:
4:30-6 p.m.
3 days per week/$249 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
Cost:
$299 for two days/week per month
Time:
4:30-7 p.m.
$399 for three days/week per month $499 for four days/week per month
To register online, please visit selecttennisacademy.
com or contact Dave Wiest at 214.733.5810. F
Upcoming October Events 1 Playdate in the Park 9 Evening on the Veranda with Danny Goode 12 Book Club 15 Travel Club 17 Coffee, Cars & Conversation 24 Halloween Spooktacular Walking Club every Monday Coffee Talk every Wednesday TGIF every Friday Stonebridge Ranch News x September 2015
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