“AmeriTex
S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS
The Board approved the 2025 annual assessment of $1003, a 5.2% increase. We are an aging community and also inflation is still with us, which is the explanation for the increase. Even with this increase, we still fall into the lower third of annual assessments when compared with other large Homeowner Associations in our area. In 2008, the annual assessment amount was $695 and it is now $1003. The annual assessment has increased by $308 over the past 17 years, an average of $18 per year over that period of time.
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 16. Our annual tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 5. 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.
Recently, we received a question about the funds we received from TxDOT for the purchase of the monument areas at Stonebridge and Highway 380. At some point they will be demolished by TxDOT, we do not know when as they have not responded to our request for a schedule. The funds will be used to rebuild those monuments and other landscaping at the time the 380 construction is completed in that area.
Frequently, social media comments are false and misleading. In the most recent example, a homeowner posted on social media that the SRCA compliance staff receives a commission for each violation written. That statement is totally FALSE!!. If you ever have a question about compliance or any SRCA service, send an email to STONEB@ciramail.com and our staff will gladly respond with accurate information.
Finally, we welcomed Kris Grooms to Stonebridge Ranch as our General Manager on Nov, 4, 2024. Kris brings 18 years of Homeowner management experience to our Association.
Board
Meeting, October 10, 2024
The Board meeting was called to order at 12:30 PM by President Dell’Antonia. All seven Board members were present. Also attending were Grand Manors Vice President of On-site Management, our General Manager, Assistant General Manager, Client Success Manager, Executive Assistant, Financial Manager, the Association’s Attorney and two staff members from the Power Group via Zoom.
Homeowners Open Forum
No homeowners attended.
Consent Agenda
Approved the September 26, 2024 BOD meeting minutes. Bill Marley was appointed Chairperson of the Finance Committee effective January 1, 2025.
Old Business
We reviewed and approved the Applications of Payments Policy, Assessment Collection Policy, Payment Plan Guideline, Time Saving Operational Guideline, Fine and Enforcement Policy, Assessment Collections Policy, and Payment Plan Guidelines.
Updated the Board on the selection of the Landscape Architect firm and negotiations status. In early November, we signed a contract with Kimley-Horn to be the Landscape Architecture firm to manage the Pool Project.
New Business
The Board reviewed and approved the 2025 Association $9 million budget and approved the flat rate annual assessment for 2025 at $1003, a 5.2% increase.
Association Reports
Since the October meeting was so early in the month, no financial reports were available to review.
Executive Session
We accepted the Appeals Report.
We renewed and approved actions to be taken on our Foreclosure Report.
We approved the funding methodology (the specific accounts to be used) for the Pre-construction expenses for the Beach Club 2.0 Project.
We approved the Landscape and Grounds three year contracts beginning Jan 1, 2025 with two firms, Manders and Superscapes.
We approved redesigning our current website and moving to an all digital format for the magazine effective February 1, 2025.
We approved the funding to repair Wellington Point ponds 2, 5, and 7. Planned for early 2025.
The Board’s Strategic Planning meeting is scheduled for Dec. 6, 2025.
The Association’s attorney updated the Board on current legal matters.
The meeting adjourned at 4:20 PM.
Jon Dell’Antonia President, Board of Directors
S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH
C OMMUNITY A SSOCIATION , I NC.
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
C ONTRIBUTORS T O T HIS I SSUE
Amanda Batson, Connie Baxter, Hope Beitchman, Scott Finley, Mathew Roebuck
B OARD O F D IRECTORS
President Jon Dell’Antonia
Vice President Amanda Batson
Secretary Joe Closs
Treasurer Michael Warner
Director Jim Buerkle
Director Bill Arnold
Director Kristen Vartian
SRCA S TAFF
General Manager Kris Grooms
Administrative Assistant Jennifer Loyd
Administrative Assistant Janine Lyons
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
Modification Team Lead Elizabeth Berglund
Compliance Team Lead Amy Dearden
P UBLISHER
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.
Wreath Feeder with Cranberry Seed Wreath Red-bellied Woodpecker
Beach Club 2.0 Update
The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Board of Directors is pleased to announce a formal partnership with the renowned landscape architecture firm, Kimley-Horn. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our journey to bring a modern Beach Club to life!
Kimley-Horn, selected after a careful evaluation process, brings a wealth of expertise in designing vibrant water features and functional outdoor spaces. Their vision also aligns with our goals to create a stateof-the-art Beach Club that not only maximizes the beautiful space overlooking Stonebridge Lake but also meets the diverse needs of our residents.
With a project as ambitious as creating a modern, multigenerational Beach Club, selecting the right partner is key to success. The experienced landscape architects at Kimley-Horn will help us create the ideal amenity, from water features and the use of natural elements to gathering spaces and landscaping that thrive in the Texas climate. Unlike general contractors
focused solely on construction, landscape architects take a holistic approach, balancing design with longterm sustainability. This forward-thinking approach is essential for creating a Beach Club that will continue to enhance property values, support resident wellness and serve as a beloved gathering space for generations to come.
“This project will be a transformative addition to our community, enhancing its value and the quality of life for our residents,” says SRCA Board of Directors President Jon Dell’Antonia. “From grandchildren to grandparents and everyone in between, this project will create a new experience for residents of all ages, where they can gather, relax and create lasting memories for years to come. We are confident it will be a place that brings generations of Stonebridge Ranch residents together, just as our previous pool has for the last 35 years!”
Kimley-Horn added that their team looks forward to creating a signature amenity that will redefine
the
as a centerpiece
“We’re honored to partner with McKinney’s premier living community on such a meaningful project,” said Andy Harcar, professional landscape architect for Kimley-Horn. “Our goal is to design a new and exciting Beach Club that will be unique and create enjoyable and memorable experiences for all.”
With this major professional services agreement in place, the Beach Club project will progress in carefully planned phases, with opportunities for residents to stay
informed and provide valuable input. While the final budget and timeline will depend on the chosen design, we are committed to an approach that prioritizes value for our residents.
We will keep you informed through our weekly Friday Flash emails and regular postings on our website. Additionally, we encourage you to follow our official Facebook page for timely announcements and to stay connected with ongoing community developments.
Are You Interested in Serving on the Board of Directors?
The SRCA Board of Directors sets the course for our community. A seven member board, there are three seats coming up for election in the spring of 2025. More information and application forms are published on pages 9-10 in this edition of Stonebridge Ranch News.
Board Chair Jon Dell’Antonia will host an information meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 3 from 6:307:30 p.m. in the Board Room at the SRCA offices 6201 Virginia Parkway. This is your chance to hear first hand what board membership requires and what the job entails.
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 5 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 come-and-go holiday tradition features the following:
• Festive music in the Circle Drive with DJ Uptown Sound playing holiday favorites.
• Costumed entertainers including Elsa 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 in the “frozen” forest, a giant selfie sleigh, and a giant Snow Globe.
• Holiday Bounce Houses and slides including a 27 foot Snowman and a Christmas Obstacle Course. Also, check out our new Snow Maze!
• Holiday treats including hot cocoa and cookies.
• Trackless train rides will supply some zippy family fun!
AND -- 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 and wear your favorite holiday gear and join us for all this and more as we welcome the most wonderful time of the year!
Tree Lighting Entry Change
Our annual Holiday Tree Lighting event is right around the corner, and we want everyone who plans to attend to have all of the information about our entry change. We will have one single entry point at this year’s event. That entry point will be on the main drive leading to the Beach Club and Community Association Office. You will not be able to enter the event from the Adriatica path or the walking trail.
Once you arrive at the entry point, we will have 3 different lines:
• 1st line will be for residents with a Stonebridge Ranch ID Card. You will simply show your ID Card to the person at the desk, and they will give you a wristband to show that you have been granted entry to the event.
• 2nd line will be for residents who do not have a Stonebridge Ranch ID Card but have a valid form of identification. This line will take a little
longer than the first line, as we will need to look up your address in our database. Once we have confirmed your residency, you will receive a wristband to show that you have been granted entry to the event.
• The 3rd line will be for residents with guests. You may show your Stonebridge Ranch ID Card or another valid form of identification in this line. A guest fee of $5.00 (Cash or check please, we do not accept credit cards) will be charged for every non-resident attending with a resident. Residents will receive a wristband, and guests will receive a different color wristband. Both will show that you have been granted entry into the event.
We strongly encourage you to get your Stonebridge Ranch ID before this event. It will decrease your wait time at the entry point for this and future events. Stonebridge Ranch IDs can be issued Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Community Association Office at 6201 Virginia Parkway.
You may be wondering why we are making this change.
1. Security - One of the primary reasons we are utilizing wristbands is to enhance security and control access to the event premises. Wristbands serve as a visual indicator that an individual has been granted access to the event. Wristbands make it easier for event staff to identify authorized attendees and differentiate them from those without proper credentials.
2. Fiduciary Responsibility – In a nutshell, we want the money spent on our activities to be used for our residents.
Studies show that 84% of consumers rank safety and security as important factors when attending live events. Failing to verify identities undermines public trust in events and makes attendees less likely to attend.
We will be utilizing this entry change at many upcoming Stonebridge Ranch events. We look forward to seeing you and your family at the Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 5th. ◀
Spooktacular 2024
Spooktacular 2024 in October was a howling success! Over 1000 Stonebridge Ranch residents and their guests enjoyed this free three-hour event in perfect weather at the Circle Drive. Attendees enjoyed games and activities, and the kids did trick or treating and took advantage of bounce houses and a bubble show. ere were plenty of adults and kids in costume and everyone was rocking to the spooky sounds of DJ Uptown Sound. Local merchants also participated in the festivities with table set-ups, banners, and unique activities for children.
Book Club, 7 PM (BR + Zoom)
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.
Stars Tennis, 4 pm to Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm
Committee Meeting, Amenities Meeting, 3:30 PM (BR)
Stars Tennis, 4 pm to Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm
Committee Meeting,
Stars Tennis, 4 pm t Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm
10 & Under/Future Stars Tennis, 4 pm to 5 pm; Academy Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm
SRCA Board of Directors Meeting, 12:30 PM (BR)
10 & Under/Future Stars Tennis, 4 pm to 5 pm; Academy Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm Meeting, 8:30 AM (Zoom); Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5 PM (CR & Circle Drive)
20 19 14 13 12
Coffee, Cars & Cycles, 8:30 AM (CR & Circle Drive); End of the Year Book Swap, 8:30 AM (CR); Veterans Club Meeting, 10:00 AM (CR)
10 & Under/Future Stars Tennis, 4 pm to 5 pm; Academy Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm
10 & Under/Future Stars Tennis, 4 pm to 5 pm;Academy Tennis 5 pm to 7 pm
AC = Aquatic Center, BTC = Beach & Tennis Club, BR = Board Room, CR = Communit y Room, SBP = Stonebridge Plaza Weekly Meet-ups, Monthly/Annual Events, Committees
Question one:
ink you know Stonebridge Ranch?
See if you can answer these teasers!
Where did the name “Stonebridge” come from in naming Stonebridge Ranch?
a. There was actually an old stone bridge on the original property.
b. Stonebridge was the name of a 19th century trading post in McKinney.
c. Borrowed from Stonebridge Drive, which intersects Blackburn near Turtle Creek in Highland Park.
d. From the 700 year old stone bridge located on the St. Andrews Links golf course in Scotland.
Question two:
Which of these Stonebridge Villages has the fewest homes?
a. Pecan Crossing
b. Knightsbridge
c. Summer Point
d. Altamura Estates Solutions are on page 28
2025 Annual Assessment Due January 1, 2025
During the October 10, 2024, meeting of the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) Board of Directors, the Association’s 2025 operating budget and the 2025 annual assessment were approved.
The flat-rate 2025 annual assessment for Stonebridge Ranch homeowners is $1,003. This is a 5.2% increase over the 2024 annual assessment. When planning your annual assessment payment, please keep these key factors in mind:
• The 2025 annual assessment statement was mailed in early November 2024 to each homeowner and posted to owner accounts in the GrandManors resident portal on CiraNet.
• The due date for your annual assessment payment is January 1, 2025.
• It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure their payment is received by SRCA on time. The SRCA does not accept postage mailing date or the
procedures of the homeowner’s bank. Some e-check and ACH payments can take up to two weeks to be processed and posted to the SRCA account. If your payment is received by SRCA after January 1, you risk a late payment fee.
Why the Increase?
GrandManors and the SRCA homeowners who volunteer on committees and serve on the Board of Directors strive to maintain (and improve) premier SRCA services. Various factors have contributed to the annual assessment adjustment, although the primary factor is inflation. Just like our homeowners, SRCA has felt the effects of inflation and increased costs. To that end, as costs and expenses continue to increase, so must the amount of the annual assessment.
Some residents may be wondering: dues, assessments, and taxes. What’s the difference?
Taxes are what you pay to municipal, state, and Federal taxing authorities. Dues are what you pay to be a member of a country club or other similar organization. Assessments are the charges that each property owner in a property owner’s association pays according to the Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) and Bylaws of the said association.
Overall, the state of Texas uses the term “assessments” to refer to what people might instead consider dues. Dues are used by a country club for maintenance of the facilities, upkeep of the club house, keeping the golf course in tip-top shape and a host of other functions. Likewise, your SRCA assessment goes toward upkeep of our amenities -- the Aquatic Center, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, walking trails, ponds, landscaping, irrigation, and more – it’s all made possible by owners’ payments of the annual assessment, which fund the annual operating budget.
Do you have some treasured family pictures of events at Stonebridge Ranch? Annual assessments fund events like the Tree Lighting Ceremony, Meet the Bunny, Halloween Spooktacular, Concerts on the Circle, Cardboard Boat Races, monthly Coffee, Cars and Cycles meetups and many other events.
Annual assessments also cover overall management of the Association, including on-site staff, legal, and other professional fees, and a variety of other expenses approved by the SRCA Board of Directors. Our Repair and Replacement Reserves are also funded by the annual assessment.
Just like you have a household budget, so does the SRCA. Our budget is approved annually by the Board of Directors, a seven-member team of elected homeowner volunteers. Analysis and recommendations are provided by the staff as well as the Finance Committee, homeowner volunteers who are experienced in financial planning, large-budget management, accounting, investing, etc. Based on the analysis of past spending and projected future needs, the Board determines the annual assessment amount for each year.
Increases in the annual assessment rate are limited according to the SRCA CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions). According to SRCA governing documents, the Board of Directors is authorized to increase the annual assessment by five percent (5%) or the percentage increase of the CPI-U index from the previous fiscal year, whichever is greater. Since the previous fiscal year’s CPI-U index increase of 5.2% was greater than 5%, that percentage increase was used on October 10, 2024, to set the 2025 annual assessment rate at $1,003.
For detailed descriptions of SRCA governing
documents, amenities, and a calendar of SRCA events, please visit our website at www.StonebridgeRanch.com or your online resident portal. The approved annual operating budget is posted on the SRCA website and resident portal.
Again, the SRCA annual assessment notice was sent out in early November 2024, and is due on January 1, 2025. Payments received by SRCA after January 1, 2025, may accrue late fees. For those homeowners who have not elected to receive an e-statement via email, the statement is mailed to the mailing address listed in the homeowner’s online account. If you do not receive a statement, contact the SRCA on-site office at 214-733-5800 or log in to your online resident portal to review the assessment statement. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure we have the correct email and mailing address on file.
Are you a new homeowner and this is your first annual assessment? Thank you for joining us here at Stonebridge Ranch! We encourage you to add your email to your account and elect to receive e-statements via email for ease of communication. This is also a good time to check your account to make sure we have the most up to date contact information (mailing address, email, and phone numbers).
So, how do you pay your annual assessment? There are a few options available. Whichever option you choose remember that it is the owner’s sole responsibility to ensure that the payment is received by SRCA no later than January 1, 2025. Any payment received by SRCA after January 1, 2025, may prompt a late fee charged to the owner. SRCA is not responsible for mail service delays, incorrect address on the owner’s account, any conditions listed on the owner’s check that may cause the check to be rejected and not accepted, problems with the ACH set-up, etc. On to the payment options.
Resident Portal
Log in to your resident portal on CiraNet and pay using e-check or credit card. Please note, credit card payments will incur a convenience fee charged by the bank for processing the payment (neither SRCA nor GrandManors receives any part of the fee).
If you do not have your resident portal set up yet, here are the steps to log in:
1. Go to www.Ciranet.com/residentportal and click ‘Don’t have an account?’ below left of the Log In button. You can also access the resident portal from the homepage of the SRCA website, www. stonebridgeranch.com.
2. Create your user account by entering your account number, check digit, email address, and a password of your choice. Then click ‘Create User’. If you do not have your account number and check digit, please refer to your statement or call GrandManors Resident Service Center at 855-947-2636.
3. Next, check your email inbox and open the email with subject line ‘CiraNet Portal Registration.” Click on the link to activate your account (the email may be in your ‘Junk Mail’ folder if you use Spam Protection. The link will take you back to the Login page.
4. Log in with your email address and the password that you created. The ‘Home Page’ will appear. You are now logged into the Resident Portal and are ready to use your portal to review and pay your annual assessment.
Note: If you own more than one Stonebridge Ranch property, click ‘Add Property’ located under your profile icon at the top right of your screen and enter the Community ID, Account Number, and Check Digit (each property address has a unique account number and check digit number, which can be found on the top right corner of the statement).
Automatic Draft
You may sign up for automatic draft or ACH via CiraNet, to be drafted once each year. 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 by the homeowner annually as the annual assessment amount is subject to change from year to year. Owners who use ACH need to review and verify their setup and preferences each year.
For assistance, call GrandManors Resident Service Center at 855-947-2636.
Call GrandManors Resident Service Center
You may call GrandManors Resident Service Center at 855-947-2636 to pay by e-check or credit card.
In Person at SRCA Office
You may pay by check or money order at the SRCA onsite 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 afterhours deposits. Credit and debit cards are accepted during office hours with a service fee applied. The SRCA on-site office does not accept cash.
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 certain eligibility requirements, SRCA offers an option for a voluntary payment plan arrangement with defined limitations and requirements. Administrative fees will be additional and applied for this option. Payment plans are available to homeowners after assessments are posted to owners’ accounts. 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.
Please note: Some SRCA villages have their own sub-associations which oversee areas of maintenance or operation specific to a single neighborhood. These sub-associations assess their own dues to homeowners in their villages. Owners in these sub-associations will receive two separate assessment statements: one for SRCA and one for their respective sub-association.
So, there you have it. Again, assessment notices were sent out esrly November 2024, and are due and payable January 1, 2025. For any questions not answered in this article, please call the Association office at 214-733-5800.
Keep Informed
It is the goal of Stonebridge Ranch Community Association to keep our homeowners fully informed, including budget and assessment decisions and how they are used to maintain and improve our beautiful community. Please make sure to subscribe to our multiple communications channels to receive up-todate information. Visit www.stonebridgeranch.com/ stay-connected/ to access these channels.
Word to the Wise: Pay by January 1, 2025, to avoid late fees.
Thanks for your help in continuing to make the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association the premier, large-scale, master-planned community of choice in North Texas. ◀
2025 Operating Budget Summary
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 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 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.
Mathew Roebuck Landscape & Grounds Director, SRCA
Compliance Corner
Or, how to stay off the Compliance iPad.
With the holidays coming up, just a reminder: holiday lights are not permitted on SRCA gazebos. These include the Millard Pond gazebo, La Cima gazebo, Fountainview gazebo, Wellington gazebo, Liberty Place gazebo, Mayberry Park gazebo, Regents Park gazebo, and Cypress Crossing gazebo. SRCA will place lights on some Stonebridge Ranch monuments, but not on village monuments. Homeowners are permitted to decorate their village monuments with non-permanent holiday lights. Fasteners such as nails, screws, etc. are not permitted.
Holiday lighting and decorations must be appropriate for the holiday being celebrated.
Residential
holiday
lights
are permitted from November 1 - January 31
These guildeines are found on page 53 https://stonebridgeranch.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Modification-Design-Guidelines-with-images.pdf
Saying Hello to 2025!
2024 will soon be behind us, and 2025 is coming up fast!
If the thought of the 21st century being one quarter over has your mind in orbit, the Air Force Safety Center (an official website of the United States government at https://www.safety.af.mil/Divisions/ Occupational-Safety-Division/Winter-Safety/NewYears-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.
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.
The number two issue marring New Year’s celebrations is fireworks.
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’spermission (County burn bans 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 2025! ◀
Stonebridge Ranch Welcomes New General Manager
Kris Grooms
This November, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) welcomed Kris Grooms as the new General Manager. With over 18 years of experience in professional Homeowner’s Association (HOA) management, Kris brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to community development.
Kris holds an impressive array of professional certifications, including the Certified Manager of Community Associations® (CMCA), Association Management Specialist® (AMS), and the prestigious Professional Community Association Manager® (PCAM) designation, reflecting his extensive industry knowledge.
Since stepping into his new role, Kris has been collaborating with the SRCA Board of Directors, staff, homeowners, and committees to uphold the SRCA’s vision of being “the premier, large-scale, master-planned community of choice in North Texas.”
“Between the SRCA Board of Directors, staff, and our committee volunteers, we have an amazing team,” Kris shared. “I’m grateful to have been invited into a community with vision, purpose, and the commitment it takes to enhance and maintain the quality of life our Stonebridge homeowners have come to love and enjoy.”
He and his wife Joanna have been married for 18 years and are the proud parents of two children, Ethan (13) and Elaine (9). Outside of work, Kris enjoys spending time with his family, reading, writing, attending church, and playing guitar.
Stonebridge Ranch residents can reach out to the SRCA onsite office at 214-733-5800 or via email at STONEB@Ciramail.com for assistance with association matters.
Please join us in giving Kris a warm welcome to the Stonebridge Ranch community!
December 2024
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.
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 can 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 5
5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Community Room and Circle Drive 6201 Virginia Parkway
We are hosting our beloved annual Tree Lighting Ceremony 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 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 in the “frozen” forest, a giant selfie sleigh, and a giant Snow Globe.
• Holiday Bounce Houses and slides including a 27-foot Snowman and a Christmas Obstacle Course. Also, check out our new Snow Maze!
• Holiday treats including hot cocoa and cookies.
• Trackless train rides will supply some zippy family fun!
The outdoor Tree Lighting will take place at 6:30 p.m. in front of the Community Association building in the Circle Drive. Wear your favorite Holiday gear and join us for all this and more!
Book Club
Monday, December 9
7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
SRCA Boardroom and Zoom
6201 Virginia Parkway
Our December read is The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey. It is based in the Russian folktale, Snegurochk which means “Snow Maiden,” about a couple who build a child out of snow. For fans of folktales, this one is a lovely, bittersweet and whimsically literary tale. Alaska, 1920: a brutal place to homestead, and especially tough for recent arrivals Jack and Mabel. Childless, they are drifting apart - he breaking under the weight of the work of the farm; she crumbling from loneliness and despair. In a moment of levity during the season’s first snowfall, they build a child out of snow. The next morning the snow child is gone--but they glimpse a young, blonde-haired girl running through the trees. This little girl, who calls herself Faina, seems to be a child of the woods. She hunts with a red fox at her side, skims lightly across the snow, and somehow survives alone in the Alaskan wilderness. As Jack and Mabel struggle to understand this child who could have
stepped from the pages of a fairy tale, they come to love her as their own daughter. But in this beautiful, violent place things are rarely as they appear, and what they eventually learn about Faina will transform all of them. (From Amazon)
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=a m1UUTRobUZIek8wMUFydWNXUmU4dz09
Meeting ID: 822 0419 7636
Passcode: 323380
Dial by your location: +1 (346)248-7799
Travel Club
Tuesday, December 10
9:00 a.m.to 10:00 a.m.
Community Room
6201 Virginia Parkway
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
(Adult Only Event)
Tuesday, December 10
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (Doors open at 6:00 p.m.)
Community Room
6201 Virginia Parkway
Want a chance to win a prize and to have some mid-week fun? Join us for an evening of Holiday Bingo and wear your ugly holiday sweater! Players compete for $10 gift cards while snacking on holiday treats. This is an adultonly (age 21+) event. Stonebridge Ranch residents pay $3 at the door and may bring up to two non-resident guests. Guests pay $8 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 at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tuesday-eveningbingo-december-ugly-sweater-holiday-editiontickets-1070656515459 or contacting the management staff at (214)733-5800.
Coffee, Cars & Cycles
Saturday, December 14
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m (Doors open at 8:00 a.m.)
Community Room and Circle Drive 6201 Virginia Parkway
Residents are welcome to park their classic or fancy cars in the circle drive. We love to see motorcycles and choppers, too, but you are welcome regardless of the vehicle you drive! This is a relaxed come-and-go event for residents only. Feel free to stop by while on your
morning walk or bike ride. We will provide coffee, breakfast tacos, and sweet treats (one per person, please) in the Community Room until supplies run out.
End of Year Book Swap - Bring a Book, Take a Book
Saturday, December 14
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m
Community Room
6201 Virginia Parkway
As 2024 comes to an end, we welcome you to bring a book and take a book! The New Year calls for a new collection of books. Bring books you are no longer reading while also browsing for new reads. We accept all categories of books, as well as Children’s books, Teen books, DVDs, CDs, and Puzzles. Bring one, take one.
Veterans Club Meeting – Saturday Morning Coffee
Saturday, December 14
10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m .
Community Room
6201 Virginia Parkway
Veterans 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!
Think You Know
Answer 1: C: One of the original developers of the property remembered the name of Stonebridge Drive from growing up in North Dallas. He thought it spoke of stability, longevity, and timeless appeal.
Answer 2: D: Altamura Estates has five homes.
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.
