December 2023
Vol. 11, Issue 12
www.stonebridgeranch.com
2024 Budget Announced Call to Service Tree Lighting Glitter Celebrate a Safe New Year
Plus Mathew’s Lawn Order Yes, Virginia Spooktacular Wrap
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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 3
December 2023
Vol. 11, Issue 12
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS The official publication of the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA)
08
2024 Budget Summary
14
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus
15
Lawn Order
16
Community Calendar
19
Think You Know Stonebridge Ranch?
20
Budget 07 2024 Announced
11 Call to Service
Budgeting for continued progress in 2024
Board of Director’s candidate questionnaire
Lighting 13 Tree Glitter
a Safe 18 Celebrate New Year
Join the fun as we light up our tree with some special guests
Ring in 2024 without drama
New Year’s Resolution Carry Your SRCA ID Card!
21
From the Archives
23
Halloween Spooktacular Photo Gallery
25
New Publication Schedule Compliance Corner
26
Social Scene
30
Save the Date January 2024 Events
Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Vision Statement To be the premier, large-scale, master-planned community of choice in North Texas. Mission Statement Preserve and enhance the quality and natural beauty of Stonebridge Ranch for our residents. Offer and maintain attractive amenities, active lifestyle opportunities and leadership which protects property values and the financial health of the community.
Copyright © 2023 All rights reserved. Published by Community Matters, Inc.
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Cover Photo ~ Annual Holiday Tree Lighting
Join us on Thursday, December 7th at our beloved annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. This three hour come-and-go event starts at 5:00 pm, with the tree lighting at 6:30 p.m.
Fall has officially arrived with cooler weather and finally some much needed rain. Halloween is behind us and the Christmas season is coming. I hope everyone was able to enjoy our annual Tag-a Truck event on November 4. Our annual tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 7. This month’s issue of the magazine has the annual Board questionnaire for those who may be interested in running for a Board of Directors position.
Board Meeting, October 12, 2023 The Board meeting was called to order at 12:30 PM by President Dell’Antonia. All Board members were present. Also attending were our Executive Director, Executive Administrator, Director of Compliance, Financial Manager, Lifestyle Director, L & G Director, Communications Director, Vice President of Onsite Management for Grand Manors and the Association’s Attorney. One homeowner attended the meeting via Zoom to discuss downed tree branches and mailbox condition issues in his neighborhood. Both items will be addressed when specific addresses are provided.
Consent Agenda Approved the September 28, 2023 BOD meeting minutes. We also reviewed and approved the Competitive Contract Bidding Policy. We approved James Young as a new member of the Communications Committee.
Old Business We reviewed and approved revisions to the Time Savings Operational Guideline.
New Business We approved minor revisions to the Working Capital Guidelines. We reviewed and approved the 2024 Operating Budget. With recommendations from the Finance Committee and review by the Board, the annual assessment for 2024 will be increased by 5% to $953. Much of this increase was driven by an 8% increase in water rates where we spend over $1.3 million
F ROM T HE P RESIDENT annually and our insurance rates are up by 30%. In addition, other costs to the Association have been impacted by inflation, a factor we are all experiencing. Association Reports Since this Board meeting was early in the month, we did not have our monthly financial reports to review.
Executive Session We reviewed the monthly L&G update including our current water usage. We accepted the Payment Plan Status Report, Collections Committee Waiver Report, and Appeals Report. We approved funding for Wellington 7 pond repairs and an Erosion Project for Quail Ridge. We also approved the annual fence replacement contract for 2024. We approved a new landscape consulting contract with Dr. R.E. Moon & Associates effective January 1, 2024. We also reviewed and approved an extension with our current magazine publisher to continue publishing the monthly magazine in both printed and electronic versions. Our Attorney updated us on the status of current legal issues. The meeting adjourned at 4:14 PM.
Board Meeting, October 26, 2023 The Special Board meeting was called to order at 9:00 AM by President Dell’Antonia. All Board members were present. Also attending were our Executive Director and Executive Administrator. Almost the entire meeting was conducted in Executive Session to discuss Beach Club Contracts, Conditions and Opportunities. We canceled the contract with K&W Landscape Architects. The meeting adjourned at 10:29 AM. Jon Dell’Antonia President, Board of Directors
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 5
December 2023
Vol. 11, Issue 12
STONEBRIDGE RANCH COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. 6201 Virginia Parkway, McKinney, TX 75071 Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM Ph: (214) 733-5800 website: www.StonebridgeRanch.com Courtesy Patrol: (214) 794-4945
CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Amanda Batson, Connie Baxter, Norm Counts, Scott Finley, Mathew Roebuck
Share the
Holiday Joy Shop now and save on unique holiday gifts.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Jon Dell’Antonia Vice President Amanda Batson Secretary Joe Closs Treasurer Norm Counts Director Jim Buerkle Director Jim Norton Director Kristen Vartian
SRCA STAFF
Use Code: GIVEJOY *Valid in-store at the participating store(s) listed or by shopping online. One discount per purchase. Offer not valid on previous purchases, gift cards, optics, DSC memberships or sale items. Offer valid December 7 thru December 18, 2023
BIRD FOOD • FEEDERS GARDEN ACCENTS UNIQUE GIFTS
Executive Director Brian Matt Executive Administrator Lee-Yen Elliott Administrator Assistant Sarah Bower Resident Services Coordinator Lydia Powell Communications Director Scott Finley Financial Manager Lucy Duray Lifestyle Director Connie Baxter Landscape & Grounds Director Mathew Roebuck Maintenance Supervisor Eric Ortega Maintenance Technician Alastair Doherty Maintenance Technician Lyle Noland Pool Maintenance Technician Micah Reed Porter Genri Barrientos Porter Guillermo Barrientos Compliance & ARC Director Eric Adams Compliance Inspector Amy Dearden Compliance Inspector Robin Kuhar Compliance Inspector Victor Vega Modification Coordinator Amy McAllister
PUBLISHER
3001 S. Hardin Blvd., Suite 106 McKinney, TX 75070 (in the Tom Thumb shopping center next to Hallmark) (972) 472-2022 www.wbu.com/McKinney 6
stonebridgeranch.com
To place an advertisement, please contact: Community Matters, Inc., PO Box 5900, Frisco, TX 75035 Ph: (972) 370-1778 | website: www.communitymattersinc.com Stonebridge Ranch News is the only authorized publication of the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc. It is published on behalf of residents for informational purposes only. The Association does not guarantee any work or claims made by advertisers herein and claims no responsibility or liability for statements made in the publication. The Association does not support or take responsibility for services, whether paid or volunteer, mentioned herein, nor for statements published in articles or letters herein which are not endorsed by group decision of the Board of Directors.
2024 Budget and Annual Assessment Payment Options Just a reminder, these are the payment options for your 2024 Annual Assessment. Automatic Draft You may sign up for ACH via CiraNet, to be drafted once each year on January 2. Please note since the assessment is annual, the automatic draft will only draft once a year; there is not an option for monthly automatic draft schedule. Automatic drafts need to be set up new (prior to January) by the homeowner annually as the assessment amount is subject to change from year to year. For assistance, call GrandManors Resident Service Center at 855-947-2636.
Credit card processing fees charged by the bank will be included in the balance due. Those fees are 2.95% of the payment amount.
Call GrandManors Resident Service Center You may call GrandManors Resident Service Center at 855-947-2636 to pay by e-check or credit card.
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 7
Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) 2024 BUDGET SUMMARY REVENUE Legacy Tax Value properties, the assessment is calculated by multiplying the annual Collin County Appraisal District roll times $0.029388239 per $100 of value. Flat Rate properties, the assessment is $953 per platted lot. The developer and builders pay full assessment on lots.
Assessment Revenues
$
9,048,362
Working Capital
$
79,341
Amounts collected at closing per the association documents.
Other Income
$
384,683
Income from collections and policy fees.
Activities Income
$
17,018
Income generated through various activities such as tennis lessons and pickle ball lessons.
Amenity Revenue
$
60,655
Income from beach club pool/pavilion and community room rental.
Investment Income
$
150,924
Interest income earned from the Association operating cash.
Total Revenue
$
9,740,983
EXPENSES
8
Administrative expenses include management fees, onsite staff personnel costs, legal, mailings, audit and tax preparation, supplies, insurance, federal income and property taxes for common areas, bank charges, and record storage. Special events and activities for the enjoyment of the entire community and annual meeting expenses.
Administrative
$
2,584,865
Community Activities
$
228,016
Utilities
$
1,589,570
Water and electric expenses for common areas. Contractual maintenance for common areas, color, trees, drainage, mulch, and landscape improvements.
Maintenance
$
3,368,282
Fountains
$
33,948
Maintenance, repair, and service for all Association fountains.
Irrigation
$
130,000
Irrigation repairs.
Aquatic Center
$
171,154
Contractual pool maintenance, lifeguard services, gate guards, telephones, chemicals, pool permit, pool equipment and repairs, signage and gate repairs.
Community Center
$
2,000
Pool/Pavillion
$
404,075
Contractual pool maintenance, lifeguard services, gate guards, telephones, chemicals, pool permit, pool equipment and repairs, janitorial supplies, plumbing, signage and gate repairs.
Building Maintenance
$
24,553
Electrical, plumbing, and general building maintenance supplies.
Safety and Security
$
155,016
Lakes
$
73,799
Staff Reimbursements
$
36,000
Sport Courts & Fields
$
6,870
Amenities Capital Allocations
$
79,341
Funds to enhance existing amentities and/or build new amenities
Repair & Replacement Reserves
$
853,494
Annual funding plan for repairs and replacement of association owned assets.
Total Expenses
$
9,740,983
stonebridgeranch.com
Electrical, plumbing, and general building maintenance supplies
Contractual courtesy patrol, fire inspection, security system, and telephone service. Contractual maintenance for lakes, chemicals, fish stocking, and minor fountain repairs. Staff reimbusement for personal car use in conjunction with community compliance and common area inspections. Miscellaneous repairs to tennis courts, volleyball courts, pickleball courts, playgrounds, baseball, football, and soccer fields.
In Person at SRCA Office You may pay by check or money order at the SRCA on-site office at 6201 Virginia Parkway. The office is open Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-5:00 pm (closed on holidays). Include your account number on your check. A drop box is located to the lower left of the entrance door for after-hours deposits. The SRCA on-site office does not accept cash or credit/debit cards. Check by Mail You may send your check in the mail to the lockbox listed on your statement. Make sure to include your statement coupon with your check and write your account number on your check. Make checks payable to Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (abbreviate to SRCA) and mail to: Stonebridge Ranch Community Association c/o GrandManors PO Box 105007 Atlanta, GA 30348-5007 Payment Plan Option If your SRCA account is delinquent and you meet eligibility requirements, SRCA offers an option for a voluntary payment plan arrangement with defined limitations and requirements. For example, administrative fees may apply. Payment plans are available to homeowners after assessments are posted to owners’ accounts on January 1. It is the owner’s responsibility to request a payment plan. For more information about this option, call the SRCA office at 214-733-5800. ◀
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 9
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Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) 2024 Annual Election Call for Candidates: Directors for SRCA Board SRCA BOARD OF DIRECTORS As a not-for-profit Board of Directors, the SRCA Board is responsible for operational oversight of the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association, Inc. Major areas of oversight include operational excellence, governance and policy decisions, and financial approvals through annual budget adoption and project funding decisions. There are seven directors on the SRCA Board elected by homeowners. From those seven directors, four officers are elected by the Board. For the 2024 election, there are two director positions to be elected. This call for candidates is open to any SRCA homeowner. All candidate submissions will be reviewed by the SRCA Nominating Committee, and candidates will be interviewed by the Committee. The Nominating Committee will recommend candidates for election to the SRCA BOD (Board of Directors). The names of all candidates who want to be listed on the ballot will be listed.
DUTIES, TIME COMMITMENT & OTHER REQUIREMENTS To meet the duties required by the SRCA Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions and the Bylaws, the Board of Directors annual meeting schedule and requirements include the following: • Board Meetings: 12 per year, during business hours, minimum of four to five hours per meeting; • Board Level Committee Meeting: 12 meetings per year, during business hours and evenings, minimum one to two hours per meeting; • Board Liaison Committee Meetings: 10 to 12 per year, during business hours and evenings, minimum one to two hours per meeting; • Strategic planning: one all-day session per year, during business hours, six to eight hours; • Other Meetings and Events: > Annual Meeting: One per year in March, three to four hours; > Events for New Homeowners and Committee Appreciation: one to three per year, two to three hours each > SRCA Social Events and Activities: Attend whenever possible. With meeting preparations, attendance, follow-up, and additional tasks, the SRCA Board member averages a minimum 10 to 15 hours per week in service to the community. Board candidates must have a working home computer and Internet access. The candidate should be proficient in general business applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Outlook and Adobe Acrobat.
INSTRUCTIONS TO SUBMIT FOR SRCA BOARD CANDIDATE Provide written answers to the questions on the reverse side of this form in a single document with a total word count of less than 1,000 words. Submit the document with your signed form no later than Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, at 5 pm CST to the association office at 6201 Virginia Parkway. Forms may be mailed or dropped off in person. Office hours are M-F, 8:30 AM to 5 PM. After hours, you may drop your documents in the mail slot by the front door.
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 11
SRCA BOARD CANDIDATE SUBMISSION FORM 1. Are you the current owner of record of a property lot within Stonebridge Ranch? 2. Do you currently have a past-due association account balance? If “yes,” provide a brief explanation. Do you have any current, pending association violations? If “yes,” provide a brief explanation. 3. Briefly introduce yourself. Include your background (business, volunteer, or other experience), the number of years you have been a Stonebridge Ranch resident, etc. 4. To which area(s) do you feel you could make the greatest contribution? Why? (i.e. Finance, Landscape & Grounds, Communications, Amenities, Social, Modifications, etc.) 5. What are your reasons for wishing to volunteer your service on the SRCA Board of Directors? 6. What volunteer activities have you been involved in with SRCA and/or not-for-profit or non-profit associations? 7. Do you have a potential conflict of interest and/or time in either your current professional or another volunteer role that could affect your capacity to serve on the Board? If so, please disclose. 8. What challenges or opportunities do you believe SRCA is currently facing? What challenges or opportunities do you anticipate SRCA confronting in the future? 9. Experiences and Attributes for SRCA Board Success – In addition to answering the questions above, please describe your work and background in the areas and attributes listed below. Applicants are not required to have experience in every area to be considered. • Board or Committee experience • Executive/Leadership experience • Critical, strategic, and innovative thinking • Knowledge of/experience with: > Homeowner or property owner association organization > Organization of annual budgets greater than $1M > Not-for-profit organizations, legal duties of a board, and/or management • Knowledge of SRCA and its governing documents • Willingness and ability to serve as a director and perform all tasks required of the role
By filing as a candidate for the SRCA Board of Directors, I acknowledge that, if elected, I will fulfill all Director responsibilities as described in the SRCA Governing Documents, as well as the time commitment and other requirements noted above. I am aware and accept that my answers as submitted to the questions above will be published in the March 2024 edition of , linked publicly at www.stonebridgeranch.com, and shared with SRCA homeowners via other official SRCA communication channels (including SRCA E-News and the SRCA Facebook group). If I am not nominated by the Nominating Committee, I want my name listed on the ballot for election (check one): Yes
No The info provided below the dotted line is for internal use only and will be kept private.
Signed
Date
Name (printed)
Email address
Home address
Phone (home)
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(cell)
(work)
Tree Lighting Ceremony It’s that time of year again! Jingle bells, Frozen friends, the Grinch, and of course, the Big Man himself ! On Thursday, December 7, we are hosting our beloved annual Tree Lighting Ceremony for Stonebridge Ranch residents only. The event runs 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the SRCA Community Room and Circle Drive at 6201 Virginia Parkway. This comeand-go holiday tradition features the following: • Festive music in the Circle Drive with DJ Uptown Sound playing holiday favorites. • Costumed entertainers including Elsa, Anna and Olaf from Frozen. We will also have a visit from the Grinch and the Gingerbread Man. • Photo Opportunities with Santa in the Community Room, Elsa and Olaf on the “frozen” Veranda, and a giant Snow Globe. • Holiday Bounce Houses and slides including a 27foot Snowman and a Gingerbread Slide. • Live reindeer with a sleigh! • Holiday treats including hot cocoa and cookies.
• Trackless train rides will supply some zippy family fun! The outdoor Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Community Association building in the Circle Drive. Better bring your sunglasses for this one! Join us for all of this and more as we welcome the most wonderful time of the year! ◀
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 13
Yes, Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus In 1897, 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon wrote a letter to Francis P. Church, editor at The Sun, a New York newspaper. His response became one of the most
famous editorials in newspaper publishing history. For your holiday enjoyment, here it is reprinted in its entirety. ◀
Yes, Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus FRANCIS P. CHURCH (1839-1906) Dear Editor: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus? Virginia O’Hanlon
Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age.They do not believe except they see.They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.
Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see.
No Santa Claus! Thank God, he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood. --- The New York Sun, September 21, 1897
(Virginia O’Hanlon became an educator, dying at the age of 81 in 1971)
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LAWN ORDER The holidays usually mean decorative plants begin to appear in abundance inside your home. Before you begin accepting items, think about your pets. There are six major issues with bringing in seasonal plants, most of which could be fatal to your pet. Take note that the smaller your pet is, the more toxic an item becomes. From PetMD.com, here are the major items to keep away from your pets: • Poinsettia – The red poinsettia is a holiday standard. Unfortunately, its leaves contain a sap that irritates the mouth and esophagus. Severe reactions can include coma, seizures or death, and it’s worse if the plant has been treated with a pesticide. • Holly and Mistletoe – Many people do a table decoration of holly and mistletoe, or hang mistletoe and holly from doorways or place it on fireplace mantles. These items should not be in your house with pets. Mistletoe Mathew Roebuck is toxic to cats and dogs. It causes severe intestinal upset, sudden blood pressure drops, breathing problems and hallucinations that manifest as unusual behavior. If enough is taken in by the pet, seizures and death may Landscape & Grounds Director, SRCA be the result. Dried plants and berries should also stay outside. • Lilies and Daffodils – Lilies are toxic to cats, causing sudden kidney failure. Cats need only ingest a tiny amount; a bit of leaf, petal, or even the plant’s pollen and the water in the vase they sit in are highly toxic. These should never enter your house: TRUE LILIES - LILIUM SPECIES: Asiatic lily • Easter lily • Japanese show lily • Oriental lily • Rubrum lily • Stargazer lily • Tiger lily • Wood lily • Daylily - Hemerocallis species Lily of the Valley contains a cardiotoxin that is poisonous to your cat’s heart function, causing abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) and even death. Gloriosa, Flame Lily: The toxic agent in the Gloriosa, or flame lily, is colchicine, which is toxic to rapidly dividing cells in the body, which can cause multiorgan failure in cats that chew on them.
• Amaryllis – Also known as Belladonna, Saint Joseph Lily, Cape Belladonna and others, this plant causes gastrointestinal distress, drooling, lethargy and tremors. • Christmas Cactus – While not toxic, per se, the fibrous material can cause vomiting and diarrhea. The spines can also cause damage, so keep them out of reach. • The Christmas Tree – Beyond chewing on electric light cords or breaking and ingesting ornaments, the water bowl for a live tree is toxic due to absorbing sap and other oils from the tree. Needles, especially as they harden, can cause severe gastrointestinal damage. Keep your tree blocked off from reach of curious cats unless you are there to supervise. This is by no means a complete list of plants that are toxic to dogs and cats. Go to https://animalemergencyservice.com.au/blog/flowers-plants-toxic-dogs-cats. If your dog or cat does manage to ingest any part of these holiday plants, call your veterinarian or www.petpoisonhelpline.com at 855-764-7661 immediately.
Have a great holiday, and we’ll talk again in January! Due to the size of Stonebridge Ranch, Mathew cannot answer individual landscaping and lawn care questions.
Building & Residing in Stonebridge Ranch Since its Inception
Call Us Today for Renovations & Additions to Your Home
Jeff Ives: 214-803-2423
GG Cain: 972-345-2938
gg@ggcaincompany.com
For More Information About Us & Photos of Our Work, Please Visit:
www.GGCainCompany.com
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 15
December 2023
EVENTS SUN
07
Due to print lead times, all events listed here are subject to change or You can also subscribe to other SRCA communivcation channels for
TUE
MON
STONEBRIDGE RANCH COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC. 6201 Virginia Parkway | McKinney, TX 75071 214.733.5800
KEY Weekly Meet-ups, Monthly/Annual Events, Committees AC = Aquatic Center, BTC = Beach & Tennis Club, BR = Board Room, CR = Community Room, SBP = Stonebridge Plaza
03
10
04
05
06
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
Junior Tennis, 4 to
11
12
13
Book Club, 7 PM (BR + Zoom)
Travel Club, 9 AM (CR); Tuesday Evening Bingo Ugly Sweater Holiday Edition, 6:30 PM (CR)
Junior Tennnis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
Social Commi 9 AM (BR); L & Meeting, 9:30 Amenities Com 3:30 PM (BR)
Junior Tennis, 4 to
17
24
18
19
20
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC))
Junior Tennis, 4 to
25
26
27
SRCA Office Closed
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
31
16
stonebridgeranch.com
Junior Tennis, 4
12
16
r cancellation. Prior to attending any SRCA event, please check the online calendar at www.stonebridgernach.com/events/ to confirm dates, times and details. up-to-date info. These include SRCA E-News Blasts and our official SRCA Facebook Group. See www.stonebridgeranch.com/stay-connected/ for details.
WED
THU
07
01
FRI
02
08
09
15
16
SAT
Communications Committee Meeting, 8:30 AM (Zoom); Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5 PM (CR & Circle Drive)
o 7 pm (BTC)
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
14
ittee Meeting, & G Committee AM (BR); mmittee Meeting,
SRCA Board of Directors Meeting, 12:30 PM (BR)
Veteran’s Club Meeting, 8:30 AM (CR)
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
o 7 pm (BTC)
21
7 pm (BTC)
23
29
30
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
28
to 7 pm (BTC)
22
Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 17
Ready to say hello to 2024? Here’s a look at what’s ahead: • 2024 is not only an election year, but also a leap year. • 2024 will give us a total solar eclipse (April 8). • 2024 is the date ( July 25-August 11) for the Summer Olympics in Paris. • 2024 is slated for the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit to do a fly-by of the Moon since 1972 with a planned November launch date. Speaking of space, the Air Force Safety Center (an official website of the United States government at www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/Occupational-SafetyDivision/Winter-Safety/New-Years-Eve-Safety/) has these tips for ensuring that your celebrations fly high and are accident free. The number one issue marring New Year’s celebrations is alcohol. If you are going to drink, make sure you have a driver. You can also use public transport, call a ride-share service, or have a friend take you home. If you’re going to drink and drive, expect to get a ride for free in one of those cars with the flashing lights on it driven by uniformed men and women. The same goes for watching out for your friends. Offer a ride or a couch to sleep on if needed.
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Don’t party on an empty stomach. High protein foods help slow how alcohol is absorbed into your digestive tract. Drink plenty of water. Limit alcohol intake. As an example your liver metabolizes about one alcoholic drink per hour. That’s the basic equivalent of a 12 ounce beer, a 4-5 ounce glass of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. Sip it, don’t slam it down and get another. Fireworks are also a cause for alarm in New Year’s celebrations, just as they are on the Fourth of July. If you just can’t leave it to the experts, obey your local laws on fireworks (the City of McKinney bans them inside city limits, including Stonebridge Ranch). In the unincorporated areas of Collin County, it is legal to discharge fireworks on your private property or on private property of another with the owner’s permission (Burn bans by the County will supersede that, however.) Kids and fireworks, like alcohol and fireworks, don’t mix. Did you know that a hand-held sparkler burns at between 1000 and 3000 degrees Fahrenheit at the lighted end? Not something for small children to play with, no matter how cute they look. Always have a bucket of water and a hose at the ready if needed. Celebrate safely, and we’ll see you again in 2024! ◀
Think you know Stonebridge Ranch? Think you know Stonebridge Ranch?
See if you can answer these teasers! Question one: Stonebridge Lake covers how many acres? a. 20 b. 26.8 c. 31.5
Question two:
Solutions are on page 29
What year were the three pickleball courts installed at the Stonebridge Plaza facility?
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 19
Make Carrying Your SRCA ID Card a New Year’s Resolution for 2024 We ask that all residents carry their SRCA ID card in 2024. Due to unforeseen circumstances, ACTIVEnet cards are no longer being issued. If you have one, it will still work as your ID as will the traditional forms of SRCA identification.
As you know, residents not only use our pools during pool season, but also take part in large homeowner events like Meet the Easter Bunny, Stonebridge Ranch Day, Halloween Spooktacular and Holiday Tree Lighting. Your administration recognizes a need for access control and this is something we will be reviewing moving forward in 2024 and 2025. As we head into the New Year, here’s a refresher on required identification at Stonebridge Ranch Community Association.
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I am a homeowner and my name is listed on the property deed. If your Stonebridge Ranch address is listed on a valid Texas driver’s license, you may use your license as your form of ID. However, we encourage you to get a Stonebridge Ranch ID so you can quickly and easily identify yourself as a resident to our Courtesy Patrol officers and other staff. To obtain your ID, you need only to provide a valid Texas driver’s license showing your Stonebridge Ranch address. If you are new to the state and don’t have a Texas driver’s license yet, you’ll need to show your current license as a form of photo ID, plus any billing statement showing your name and Stonebridge Ranch address. If you submit in person, the billing statement can be digital and shown to staff via your smartphone. stonebridgeranch.com
I am a PERMANENT adult resident of the household, but my name is not listed on the property deed. e.g. I’m the spouse or partner of the owner listed on the deed, an adult child living at home, an adult extended family member such as a grandparent, etc. To prove your residency, you’ll need to show your Texas driver’s license with your Stonebridge Ranch address AND a billing statement showing your name and Stonebridge Ranch address. Each household member whose name is not on the property deed must be accompanied to the office by the owner of record listed on the property deed. I am the child of a resident homeowner. To prove each child’s residency and your guardianship, homeowner parents must provide one of the following documents for each child: a birth certificate, adoption certificate, or passport for each child. You may show a picture of acceptable document on your smartphone to staff, if you do not wish to bring in the original copy. Parents need to replace the ID cards for their children as they grow. We suggest doing so approximately every three years, as the child’s appearance changes. There is no fee for replacing IDs for growing children. However, you must provide the documentation noted above to prove guardianship and residency each time you replace a child’s ID. I am a leasing tenant and the owner has agreed to transfer their amenity privileges to me. You and the homeowner must both fill out and sign the Transfer of Privileges form. The form must be submitted to the office with the annual $100 processing fee. The leasing tenant and resident members of the tenant household must present proof of residency documents as outlined on Page 1 of the form. Processing takes 7-10 business days. I am the guest of a resident. Guests may not obtain a Stonebridge Ranch ID. To utilize our amenities and common areas, non-resident guests must be accompanied by a Stonebridge Ranch resident who has a valid form of ID. To enter the gates at either the Beach Club or Aquatic Center, each guest age 3+ must pay a fee. ◀
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 21
MEET YOUR NEW NEIGHBOR! Since Service
ality
u Same Q
1965
2 nd Loca tion Op
en in Mc Kinney
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STONEBRIDGE RANCH SPECIALS! 22
stonebridgeranch.com
5850 Collin McKinney Pkwy., Unit #503 McKinney, TX 75070
Halloween Spooktacular Wrap Like they said with the Mummy, that’s a wrap! Our annual Halloween Spooktacular on October 21 was a howling fun success. Thirteen vendors were on the Circle Drive and a DJ was spinning favorite Halloween music as people danced to “The Monster Mash” and helped themselves to Halloween treats. Over 50 inflatable decorations covered the Circle Drive area, along with a good sprinkling of spooky electrically operated animatronics ranging from a Horrible Harlequin to a Grim Reaper to a Gravedigger to a creepy Pig Man. Kids also got to enjoy a nice selection of bounce houses and were able to get up close and personal with animals at a petting zoo. Thanks to Lifestyle Director Connie Baxter and our Social Committee for scaring up a good time for everyone!
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 23
Jingle All the Way to a Radiant Smile with Stonebridge Dental & PebblePath Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics!
Santa will make his appearance at Stonebridge Dental & PebblePath Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics!
TED VO r extdoo
N orhood Neighb entist D e Fav
December 6th • 3:00 - 5:00 PM • Our Office Lobby Feel free to stop by and take photos with St. Nick. Please bring your own camera. Schedule on December 6th to enjoy holiday festivities & discounts!
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Unwrap a Season of Smiles with Our Holiday Specials $49 Children's Special (for 18 years and younger)
972-547-0554 stonebridgedental.com
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stonebridgeranch.com
$500 Off Orthodontic Treatment
FREE Teeth Whitening with a new patient exam, necessary x-rays, and a cleaning in the absence of gum disease
6633 W. Eldorado Pkwy, Ste. 100 McKinney, TX 75070
972-547-6580
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2024 Stonebridge Ranch News Publication Schedule The Stonebridge Ranch News is moving to a new publication schedule for 2024. The magazine will be printed and delivered through the mail only four times in 2024: January, April, July, and October (note that there will also be a digital version of these four magazines). The remaining eight issues will be only in the digital realm: February, March, May, June, August, September, November, and December. For these months, residents will receive a postcard through the mail promoting the magazine’s new issue. The postcard will also bear a QR code linking residents to the magazine’s digital version. For every issue, print or digital, you will be able to see the new cover and find a link to the magazine on Facebook and through our regular Friday afternoon
e-blasts. Haven’t signed up for the e-blasts? Go to our website, www.stonebridgeranch.com, and go to the bottom right of any page. You’ll see a header that says “Stay Connected” and beneath that a place to input your email, then hit the subscribe button. Moving our monthly magazine into the digital world provides us with a substantial cost savings on mailing and printing; this idea is not new. Many other magazines also have a digital presence; going to bookseller Barnes and Noble’s web site will give you digital versions of National Geographic, Good Housekeeping, Consumer Reports, Newsweek, Food and Wine, and many, many more. We look forward to continuing to provide you with fun and interesting articles, full event schedules, and more in our monthly magazine! ◀
Compliance Corner Or, how to stay off the Compliance iPad.
As we head into 2024...
What makes the Compliance list?
Here are some random, yet common, compliance violations: • • • • • • • •
Garage door needs repair Please plant non-deciduous shrubs along foundation Dead shrubs need to be removed Please install sod to repair bare areas Store trash cans out of sight Home in need of paint repair Fence needs restaining Roof needs repair
Take a look at your house and yard today! STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 25
GROW YOUR BUSINESS There’s no better way to promote your business than by using local ads.
December 2023
Social Scene www.StonebridgeRanch.com/events/
DISCLAIMER: Due to print lead times, all the events listed in this issue are subject to change or cancellation. Prior to attending any event hosted by the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA), residents can check the online calendar to confirm times and check for updates.
For McKinney area local advertising opportunities contact:
AWARD-WINNING PUBLISHER
FRIENDLY REMINDER: In order to access SRCA events and amenities, residents need to carry a valid form of Stonebridge Ranch photo ID. SRCA homeowners on record with a valid Texas driver’s license that lists their Stonebridge Ranch address may use their driver’s license. All other household members, including permanent adult residents and children 3+ need a Stonebridge Ranch photo ID.
Tree Lighting Ceremony Thursday, December 7 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. SRCA Community Room & Circle Drive 6201 Virginia Parkway
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stonebridgeranch.com
We are hosting our beloved annual Tree Lighting Ceremony this year for Stonebridge Ranch residents only. This three-hour come-and-go event will feature the following: • Festive music in the Circle Drive with DJ Uptown Sound playing holiday favorites. • Costumed entertainers including Elsa, Anna and Olaf from Frozen. We will also have a visit from the Grinch and the Gingerbread Man. • Photo Opportunities with Santa in the Community Room, Elsa and Olaf on the “frozen” Veranda, and a giant Snow Globe. • Holiday Bounce Houses and slides including a 27-foot Snowman and a Gingerbread Slide. • Live reindeer with a sleigh! • Holiday treats including hot cocoa and cookies. • Trackless train rides will supply some zippy family fun! The outdoor Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Community Association building in the Circle Drive. Join us for all of this and more!
Book Club Monday, December 11 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. SRCA Boardroom & Zoom 6201 Virginia Parkway As we head toward the shortest day of the year, we will be reading historical fiction about when Thomas Edison sued George Westinghouse over a billion-dollar question:
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214-326-7476 STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 27
Featured Wealth is an independent financial services firm. Our service minded team provides goal-based wealth management and retirement planning so you can build and live the life you want.
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Senior Wealth Manager Office: 469-541-0316 Fax: 469-541-0347 jrforeman@featuredwealth.com 175 S. Ridge Rd., Suite 400 McKinney, TX 75071
Who invented the light bulb and holds the right to power the country? The Last Days of Night by Oscar winner Graham Moore is a New York Times best-seller. “A world of invention and skullduggery, populated by the likes of Edison, Westinghouse, and Tesla.”— Erik Larson “A model of superior historical fiction . . . an exciting, sometimes astonishing story.”—The Washington Post. There are several copies of the book at the McKinney library - printed, eBook, and audiobook, and multiple copies at the Plano library (at which McKinney residents can get reciprocal memberships). Everyone is welcome to join us in the Boardroom or on Zoom to discuss the book. We look forward to seeing you!
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82204197636?pwd=am1 UUTRobUZIek8wMUFydWNXUmU4dz09 Meeting ID: 822 0419 7636 Passcode: 323380 Dial by your location: +1 (346)248-7799
Securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/dealer and a Registered Investment Adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.
Travel Club Tuesday, December 12 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Community Room, 6201 Virginia Pkwy.
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500 N. CUSTER ROAD, STE. 102 MCKINNEY, TX 75071
stonebridgeranch.com
This club meets on the second Tuesday of each month. If you are curious and enjoy experiencing new things, this is the perfect group for you. The members explore together, dine together, and even cruise together. Join the club if you’re looking for some adventure!
Tuesday Evening Bingo – Ugly Sweater Holiday Edition
Shipping • Mailbox Rental • Banners • Notary • Printing TSA Precheck • Passport Renewals • Faxing
214-592-0855 6710 Virginia Pkwy., Suite 215 • McKinney, TX 75071
BETTER HEARING KEEPS YOU CONNECTED!
Tuesday, December 12 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.) Community Room, 6201 Virginia Pkwy. Want a chance to win a prize and to have some midweek fun? Join us for an evening of Holiday Bingo and wear your ugly holiday sweater! Players compete for $5 gift cards while snacking on light refreshments. This is an adults-only (age 21+) event. Stonebridge Ranch residents pay $1 at the door and may bring up to two non-resident guests. Guests pay $6 at the door. (We appreciate exact change and do not accept credit cards.) Seating is limited to the first 40 who sign up. All fees will be collected at the door. RSVP by signing up through the Eventbrite link in the email blast (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tuesdayevening-bingo-december-ugly-sweater-holidayedition-tickets-751661960157) or contacting the management staff at (214)733-5800.
"Hearing Services of McKinney is my #1 place to go for my hearing loss needs. Caring and dedicated professionals with many years of experience working daily to meet your needs.” - Retired Collin County Sheriff Terry G. Box
4201 Medical Center Dr., Suite 270 (Across from Medical City McKinney)
• Locally Owned & Operated • Wireless & Invisible Options Available • Hearing Evaluations All Ages • Hearing Aid Fittings, Repair & Maintenance
• Custom Bluetooth Hearing Protection • Custom Ear/Swim Protection • Hearing Aid Consultation • Financing Options Available • Accept Most Major Insurances
Staffed by Two Licensed Audiologists M-Th 8:30a-5pm • Fri: 8:30a-2p • Other Times Available by Appointment
972.838.1300 www.hearinmckinney.com
Commercial Insurance to Fit your Business
Think You Know Answer 1: c. 31.5 acres Answer 2: 2016
214-423-3333
www.scarbrough-medlin.com
5700 Granite Parkway, Suite 500 | Plano, TX 75024
STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 29
EVENTS next month
Veteran’s Club Meeting Saturday, December 16 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Community Room 6201 Virginia Parkway
January 2024 08
Book Club
09
Travel Club
11
Morning Bingo
13
Veteran’s Club
16
Stonebridge Ranch 101
20
Coffee, Cars & Cycles
Due to print lead times, all events listed here are subject to change or cancellation. Prior to attending any SRCA event, check the online calendar at www.stonebridgeranch.com/ events/ to confirm dates, times and details.
Stonebridge Ranch Veteran’s Social Club seeks to enhance communication and foster bonds among Veterans in our community. It is a great place to engage in meaningful conversations with other Veterans who understand your journey and share a common bond. Are you ready to become a part of our vibrant Veteran community? Join us in honoring our past, celebrating our present, and shaping our future. Together, we thrive. This will be an informal social. Bring a friend!
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Big Enough to Deliver Small Enough to Care. 30
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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS
| December 2023 31
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