Stonebridge Ranch News February 2024

February 2024

Vol. 12, Issue 2

www.stonebridgeranch.com

SRCA Annual Meeting on the Way Landscape and Grounds Year in Review Social Clubs Foster Friendship Be Our Sweetheart

Plus Mathew’s Lawn Order Holiday Tree Lighting Recap Golf Carts and Rules of the Road

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 3

February 2024

Vol. 12, Issue 2

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS The official magazine of the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA)

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Beach Club Pool Replacement

16

Community Calendar

20

Welcome to the Team From the Archives

Annual Meetings 07 SRCA on the Way

and Grounds 10 Landscape Year in Review

The most important of all SRCAhosted events during the year

A review of accomplishments and future projects in SRCA

26

Clubs Foster 14 Social Friendships

18 Be Our Sweetheart

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The Veterans Club is the newest social club at Stonebridge Ranch

Ever wonder about the history of this piece of Americana?

21

Holiday Tree Lighting

23

Think You Know Stonebridge Ranch?

24

Golf Carts at Stonebridge Ranch Lawn Order

25

Compliance Corner

Social Scene

Save the Date March 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 © 2024 All rights reserved. Published by Community Matters, Inc.

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Cover Photo ~ Conversation Valentine Hearts by Dreamstime

Created to share something sweet with your favorite people Tiny Conversation Hearts are printed with phrases like “Love You” and “XOXO”. Read more about them on page 18!

2024 is here!! I hope this year turns out to be an enjoyable and prosperous one for everyone. Certainly, with the elections this year, it will be an interesting one.

In this month’s magazine, there is an article about our Landscape and Grounds efforts in 2023 and an article about the newly formed Veterans Club.

Board Meeting, December14, 2023 The Board meeting was called to order at 12:30 PM

by President Dell’Antonia. All Board members were present, Board member Amanda Batson attended via Zoom. Also attending were our Executive Director, Executive Administrator, Director of Compliance, Financial Manager, Lifestyle Director, Communications Director, L & G Director, Vice President of Onsite Management for Grand Manors and the Association’s Attorney. One homeowner attended the meeting to discuss traffic noise from Highway 380 as it impacts those homes in Kensington Village that back up to that highway. It is a TxDOT issue to build a soundwall there and perhaps they will consider it during the 380 bypass project.

Consent Agenda Approved the November 16, 2023 BOD meeting minutes. We also reviewed and approved our Governance Documents and Board Room Usage.

F ROM T HE P RESIDENT Modifications Committee: Barry Kleckner and Michael Warner (co-chairs) Social Committee: Bill Arnold

Association Reports Our Financial Manager reviewed the October Financial Reports: Balance Sheet, Restricted and Non Restricted Investment Schedule, Summary of Accounts Receivable, Bad Debt Expense Reserve, Investment Performance Report and Preliminary November Operating Revenue and Expense Statement.

Executive Session We reviewed and approved the Foreclosure report.

We accepted the Variance Report, Payment Plan Status Report, Collections Committee Reports, Appeals Committee Decisions, and the Project Report.

We agreed to negotiate an agreement with a PR firm to assist us with communications about the Beach Club Renovation project.

We also initiated negotiations for a contract for Tennis lessons.

Our Attorney updated us on the status of current legal issues.

The meeting adjourned at 5:10 PM. Jon Dell’Antonia President, Board of Directors

Old Business We reviewed and approved changes to the Inclement Weather for Social Events Guideline, Community Room Guideline and Rental Agreement, Social Committee Guidelines, and Activity/Events Sponsorship Program Guideline.

New Business Board Meeting Minutes and Committee Minutes for the previous 12 months will be posted on the Associations website. The Board approved the following Committee Chairs for 2024: Amenities Committee: Lisa Porter Communications Committee: Debbie Cagle Wells Finance Committee: George Warman Landscape & Grounds Committee: Mary Patrick STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

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February 2024

Vol. 12, Issue 2

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

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CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Amanda Batson, Connie Baxter, Norm Counts, Scott Finley, Mathew Roebuck

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

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Executive Director Brian Matt Executive Administrator Lee-Yen Elliott Administrative Assistant Jennifer Loyd 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 Elizabeth Berglund Compliance Inspector Amy Dearden Compliance Inspector Robin Kuhar Compliance Inspector Victor Vega Modification Coordinator Amy McAllister

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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.

SRCA 2024 Annual Meetings The Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) will host its Annual Membership Meeting (Annual Meeting) on Thursday, March 21, 2024, 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at Crosspoint Church at 2101 S. Stonebridge Drive in McKinney. The SRCA Organizational Meeting will be held March 28, 2024, 12:00 p.m. in the Board Room of the Association office at 6201 Virginia Parkway in McKinney.

The Annual Meeting is the most important of all SRCA-hosted events during the year. Here’s why: • It is a legal proceeding required by SRCA bylaws.

Aspects of the meeting (such as achieving a quorum) are guided by Texas State Law. (Texas State Property Code, Title 11, Chapter 209.)

• A quorum of the SRCA membership is required for the Annual Meeting to be conducted. According to our Bylaws, quorum is required with each household recognized once. In the official notice of the Annual Meeting, details of the quorum participation options will be provided.

• Association accomplishments from 2023 will be

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

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presented by SRCA board members.

• And, last but not least, two lucky homeowners who attend in person or participate in helping to establish quorum before the meeting -- will win their 2025 annual assessment! All homeowners who participate (one per household) will have their names put into the drawing for the prize. See Prize Restriction details below.* Homeowner participation is key to Annual Meeting success!

As stated above, quorum must be met for the Annual Meeting to be conducted. How can you participate in helping to establish quorum? Participate using at least one of the following four options: • In-Person Attendance. Attend the meeting on Thursday, March 21 at Crosspoint Church, 2101 S. Stonebridge Drive in McKinney, 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

• Online Quorum Participation. SRCA offers online quorum participation for homeowners who register accordingly. When the online option officially opens, we will provide a direct link to it on our primary website at www.StonebridgeRanch.com, and also in our weekly Friday Flash email-blast.

• Absentee Ballot. Homeowners also have the option of quorum participation via absentee ballot. This ballot will be available on the same day online quorum participation opens via download from the SRCA website. The absentee ballot includes all actions required for the homeowner to participate in quorum establishment.

• Quorum Participation by Proxy. Quorum participation by proxy is another option. This form will open the same day that the online option opens and will also be available for download at www.StonebridgeRanch.com and in our weekly Friday e-blast. Homeowners who participate using the proxy form must choose to either assign their quorum proxy to the Board or another homeowner who will attend the meeting in person on their behalf.

Each of these quorum participation options allows participants to be eligible in the prize drawing for the 2025 assessment. And remember, your participation is critical to achieve quorum!

The SRCA wants all members to be well-informed about all board candidates. Full profiles of each candidate will be featured in the March 2024 issue of Stonebridge Ranch News magazine as well as available

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on other SRCA channels.

Election or appointment of directors is guided

by SRCA governing documents including the First Amendment to Sixth Amended and Restated SRCA Bylaws which can be found at https:// stonebridgeranch.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/ 003_First-Amendment-to-the-Sixth-Bylaw_POSTED. pdf on the Governing Documents page at www.

StonebridgeRanch.com.

As mentioned, make sure to follow all SRCA communication channels for updated Annual Meeting and voting news. These include: • Our website at www.StonebridgeRanch.com.

• Our official Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/groups/250390076027824/.

• CiraNet announcements.

• Our SRCA Friday E-News Flash. You may sign up on our website if you do not currently receive these email news blasts. Simply visit any page of our website and enter your email address in the lower right corner under “Stay Connected.”

To help you get ready for this important meeting, here are some helpful tips.

• UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION. For our homeowners to receive accurate and timely Association information, Stonebridge Ranch needs updated contact information on file. If you change your phone number, address, email address, or any other contact information, make sure to contact the Stonebridge Ranch on-site office at 214-733-5800 or STONEB@Ciramail.com. Remember it is the homeowner’s responsibility to keep updated and current contact information on file with SRCA. • SIGN UP FOR ONE OR MORE OF OUR COMMUNICATION CHANNELS. Besides our magazine, Stonebridge Ranch News, Stonebridge Ranch offers several different ways to keep our homeowners informed about all things Stonebridge Ranch including the Annual Meeting and related actions. These communications channels include the weekly Friday Flash email, our official Facebook page, our website at www.StonebridgeRanch.com, CiraNet Announcements, and broadcast text messages. Visit the News tab on our website for more information.

• REVIEW BOARD CANDIDATES. A call for candidates and a candidate questionnaire were published in the December 2023 issue of

Stonebridge Ranch News and were also published several times in the weekly Friday Flash e-blast.

The cut-off date for submitting a candidate questionnaire was Friday, January 5, 2024. The March issue of the Stonebridge Ranch News will include the profiles of all homeowners who have submitted their candidacy and want to be considered for Board election.

• KNOW YOUR QUORUM PARTICIPATION OPTIONS. Quorum participation options offered by the Association include in person, by absentee ballot, proxy, and online. These options are detailed above.

• ATTEND THE MEETING. The best way to know what goes on at the meeting is to attend!

Mark your calendar for March 21, 6:30 p.m. For those who cannot attend in person, the Association will provide a live stream of the event.

• FOLLOW UP. Once the directors whose terms begin in 2024 have been verified, the names of the candidates elected/appointed to the Board will be posted at www.StonebridgeRanch.com. The two winners of the 2025 assessment will be announced on March 22. The winners of the drawing will be contacted individually and will be announced on our communication channels.

We hope to see you in person at the Annual Meeting on March 21!

*PRIZE RESTRICTIONS: Quorum for the 2024 Annual Meeting (March 21, 2024) must be achieved for both drawings to occur. The prizes will be awarded equal to a winner’s 2025 annual assessment rate for their lot. The prizes are awarded as an account credit against 2025 dues.

(There is no cash value or alternate redemption.) In the event a winning owner moves out of the association prior to paying their 2025 annual assessment, the prize will be forfeited. There will be two winners chosen at random from among all homeowners who help SRCA achieve quorum via online participation, absentee ballot, proxy option, or attendance at the March 21, 2024, Annual Meeting. Only one winner per household per year. The winners will be announced on the Stonebridge Ranch website by 3 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2024, and staff will privately notify each homeowner who is a winner. ◀

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024

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HOA Dues at Work

Landscape & Grounds: 2023 Review and 2024 Plans, Part One

2023 is in the rearview mirror now, and it’s time to look back at what the Board of Directors and the Community Association accomplished in Landscape and Grounds and Amenities.

Major Projects Millard Pond Dredging: We completed a successful dredging of Millard Pond working with Envirodredge and the City of McKinney. The project resulted in the removal of 4500 yards of sediment in the bottom of the pond which was causing a deterioration in the quality of the pond. With the work completed at Millard Pond, future dredging projects will be performed in the same manner in our other bodies of water to keep them from deteriorating while preserving the aesthetics and beauty of the community.

Waterbury Boardwalk Replacement Project: The original installation of the composite decking walkway along Lake Stonebridge inside Waterbury Village has finally been completely replaced after decades of repair work. The previous deck walkway had deteriorated for quite some time making it unfit as an amenity for the community. With the Community Association and Board of Directors working with a surveyor, an engineer, and general contractor the new concrete walkway was built to the most up-to-date codes and standards, giving the community a great and safe pathway to enjoy a walk along the lake. This project took two years to come to fruition and completion.

Stonebridge Lake Wall Project: Another project that was two years in the making was the repair of the concrete wall that encompasses Stonebridge Lake. The wall was found to have cracks and be missing sections of the lake walk which provides the outline of the lake and protects the lake from erosion.

The Stonebridge Lake Wall Project kicked off in September 2023. Repairs were detailed by engineers to handle stormwater drainage systems found at

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the lake edge, as well as to rebuild the lake walls to provide decades of longevity.

Quail Ridge Drainage Easement Project: A common area easement located behind the homes along Quail Ridge Drive was originally built by the developer as a storm water drainage system. This system was intended to handle the Quail Creek Phases 4&5 and part of Stonebrook Crossing storm water shed.

Over the years this area had deteriorated, resulting in erosion of the channel and potential impact to the stormwater system downstream intended to protect homeowners south of Falls Creek Lane east to Lake Forest Drive. The Association and Board of Directors contracted Pondmedics to engineer the area east of Falls Creek Lane using a concrete matting that allows vegetation to grow through its interlocking webbing to restore the greenspace and protect the check dam pool from deteriorating over time.

In 2023 the Association and Board of Directors made significant changes in management strategies for Landscape and Grounds that are being implemented in 2024. These changes will impact the current and future state and aesthetics of the landscaping, irrigation management, and water usage.

They will also focus on re-establishing or rebuilding the common area as a master planned landscape community. The SRCA property has aged gracefully, however, it’s time to rethink our current approach to maintain current premier areas and re-landscape other areas.

A new landscape consultant was hired to assist the Landscape and Grounds Department with a focus on the health of the landscape, use of an agronomic approach and centered around best horticulture practices. For over a decade the community has had the same consultant reviewing the landscape common areas, and it was time to seek a new service aligned with our current landscape and grounds approach

to excellence. We are excited to announce our new consultant, Dr. R.E. Moon + Associates. This new consulting service will help keep the landscape grounds maintained and provide additional support in redevelopment of the SRCA landscape and grounds.

As we say goodbye to 2023, the new year has a promising bright future. The Association and the Board of Directors are looking forward to new practices, implementations, and trials to maintain and refresh our landscape and grounds ensuring SRCA

continues to be a premier master planned community.

In coming months, the Director of Landscape and Grounds along with Dr. Moon Consulting will hold information sessions for homeowners. These sessions will include techniques homeowners can use in their residential landscaping maintenance.

Until then, we hope you continue to enjoy the monthly Lawn Order column, and keep an eye on what’s beneath your feet! ◀

Father Time Visits the Beach Club In the January edition of our Stonebridge Ranch News, we unveiled an exciting announcement—the 2024 project of replacing the Beach Club pool. We are still working on a timeline and cost estimate and will update you as we get more information. In the meantime, we thought an analogy using a 35-year-old car might be helpful in better understanding the issues facing all of us with the Beach Club pool.

Would you drive a 35-year-old vehicle daily?

We’ll even assume traffic is reasonable, not US 75, SH 121 or the Dallas North Tollway at 5:15 pm. If so, here’s what you need to do after you start it up: First, make sure that the car is roadworthy. Do regular inspections (preferably daily). Remember that no matter what you do, the vehicle is still old and may suffer failure without warning.

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| February 2024 11

You won’t be carrying just groceries or golf clubs in the trunk. You’ll need to make room for jumper cables and a fire extinguisher, among other things.

Don’t forget that big full-size spare tire (which needs its air pressure kept up) and the flimsy jack you have to ratchet up to lift the car to change it.

Do you know where the dipstick is and how to use it? You’ll need to learn that older cars tend to go through oil, and an undetected loss could lead to serious problems. Ditto for your transmission fluid, brake fluid and hydraulic fluid. Don’t forget the radiator (NEVER open a hot radiator cap) and keep an eye on those brakes, hoses, and belts.

Wow! That’s a lot of work to keep a 35-year-old vehicle in daily service!

Trusting a 35-year-old car as your daily driver is like rolling the dice. Things simply wear and deteriorate with age. Cars, power tools, appliances— and swimming pools. As we’ve stated, the Beach Club pool is 35 years old, and like a 35-year-old car with a major oil-burning problem, it requires more than customary maintenance, costing us all time and money.

For example, you might have noticed lines across the bottom of the pool where the liner has cracked over

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time due to wear and tear and repairs have been made.

The Beach Club has long been the crown jewel of our community and we intend to ensure that amenity remains so for decades to come.

The Board is looking at several options to rebuild the Beach Club to make it more attractive, usable, and efficient while taking full advantage of the spectacular views afforded by Stonebridge Lake. We envision a pool – and more – that will continue to provide splashes and smiles and give our residents a place to gather with their families. We look forward to creating a new crown jewel for our community. ◀

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Enjoy New Friends in the New Year at SRCA! Part 2 of 3 Stonebridge Ranch offers residents so many things to do – swimming, walking, biking, tennis, special events like Halloween Spooktacular and the holiday tree lighting – you might ask, what else is there?

Have you considered visiting one of our three popular social clubs?

Stonebridge Ranch is host to the McKinney, Texas Travel Club; a Veterans Club; and of course, a Book Club. There’s a lot of ground to cover! In the January issue we looked at the Travel Club, so this month we’ll take a tour of the Veterans Club.

Veterans Club The Veterans Club is the newest social group at Stonebridge Ranch. “Last year, Stonebridge Ranch’s Social Committee was given the task to formulate guidelines to assist our residents in forming all

new social clubs,” says club organizer Ben DeVries.

“Several veteran committee members felt a Veterans Club would be a good place to start. Richard Jernigan, a fellow veteran, and myself volunteered to host the first Veterans Club coffee on September 7 of 2023.”

Meetings are open to members, their families, and their guests. “We meet at the Stonebridge Ranch Community Room on either Thursday or Saturday morning. Meeting times are either 8:30 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. depending on room availability.” The club meets twice each month for coffee and donuts or a presentation, with meetings lasting between one and one and a half hours.

The meetings may include: 1. Discussion: Members talk about their experiences, stories, and challenges related to their service in the military or as family members of veterans.

2. Share Experiences: Individuals share their military and life experiences, provide encouragement, and promote comradery.

3. Community Service Planning: Planning and organizing community service projects or events to support veterans and their families, such as fundraisers, volunteer activities, or Veterans Day celebrations.

4. Guest Speakers and Presentations: Inviting guest

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speakers, such as veterans or experts in veteran related topics, to share insights, knowledge, and experiences with the club members.

5. Veterans Day Activities: Organizing and participating in Veterans Day activities, such as ceremonies, flag hanging, and hosting discussions to honor and celebrate veterans.

DeVries says the club has two upcoming programs planned for the first quarter of 2024.

1. 7:00 p.m., Thursday, February 15 - “Panel Discussion - Local Veteran Services.” Our own John Worth will lead an expert panel conversation on public and private agency resources available to our resident veterans.

2. 10:00 a.m., Saturday, March 9 - “Panel Discussion - Local Air Force, Navy, and Army Recruiters.”

Our own Paul Chalbot will lead a conversation on military service options and benefits for young people today.

Jernigan says joining the Veterans Club is easier than joining the Army. “Any resident veteran can join by signing up at a regular Club meeting. It’s that simple.” Jernigan adds that while it is a Veterans Club, any Stonebridge Ranch resident may attend.

“Joining our Veterans Club provides a sense of camaraderie and support for those who have served in the military or have family members who have served,” says DeVries. “Our Club offers opportunities for community service and involvement in activities that align with the values and experiences of veterans.

Additionally, it can be a way for residents to engage in activities that are not covered by the HOA, such as specific veteran-related events and support initiatives.”

Jernigan adds that “Ultimately, joining Stonebridge Ranch Veterans Club provides a sense of belonging and purpose for residents with a connection to the military, while also fostering a spirit of volunteerism and community involvement. We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting.”

Be sure to check out the March issue of the Stonebridge Ranch News for a look at the Book Club! ◀

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 15

February 2024

EVENTS SUN

04

11

18

13

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

05

06

07

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to

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13

14

Book Club, 7 PM (BR + Zoom)

Travel Club, 9 AM (CR); Tuesday Evening Bingo, 6:30 PM (CR)

L & G Commi Meeting, 9:30 Amenities Com 3:30 PM (BR)

Junior Tennnis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to

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20

21

Social Commi 9 AM (BR)

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Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC))

Junior Tennis, 4 to

26

27

28

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to

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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

01

THU

02

FRI

SAT

03

Communications Committee Meeting, 8:30 AM (Zoom)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

08

o 7 pm (BTC)

09

10

16

17

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

15

ittee AM (BR); mmittee Meeting,

Veterans Club Meeting, 7:00 PM (CR)

Marshmallow and Hot Dog Roast, 6:00 PM (Circle Dr)

o 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

22

ittee Meeting,

SRCA Board of Directors Meeting, 12:30 PM (BR)

7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

o 7 pm (BTC)

23

Coffee, Cars & Cycles, 8:30 AM (CR and Circle Dr)

24

29 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

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 17

February means Valentine’s Day, and Valentine’s Day means the annual return of those little candy hearts with messages printed on them.

Who hasn’t had a conversation heart with the words “Kiss Me,” “Call Me,” or “Be Mine” printed on it? Ever wonder about the history of this piece of Americana?

It might surprise you to know that the ubiquitous candy heart with a message had its origins in 1866, one year after the end of the American Civil War. Candy maker Daniel Chase came up with a machine that could print on the cut-out lozenge shaped candies his brother Oliver made. Their business became the backbone of a brand you may remember – Necco, also known as the New England Candy Company. (Surely you remember the rolls of Necco Wafers at your grocery store check-out aisle!)

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In 1902, Necco began making the familiar heart shaped candies called Sweethearts. By the mid-90’s, the sayings began to get modern updates such as “Fax Me,” “Email Me,” and “Text Me.” More recent takes have included the letters “LOL,” “As If,” and “Diva.”

While the candies are produced year-round, production for Valentine’s Day kicks into high gear in September. Some of the last statistics from Necco indicated that the company produced around 8 billion of the hearts yearly, or about 100,000 pounds’ worth daily.

Necco was sold to the Spangler Candy Company in 2018, which has kept the Sweethearts beating. ◀

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH SPECIALS! 5850 Collin McKinney Pkwy., Unit #503 McKinney, TX 75070 STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS | February 2024 19

Building & Residing in Stonebridge Ranch Since its Inception

Call Us Today for Renovations & Additions to Your Home

Jeff Ives: 214-803-2423

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For More Information About Us & Photos of Our Work, Please Visit:

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HOA Dues at Work Holiday Tree Lighting

HOA Dues at Work

The Holiday Tree Lighting included Santa and Mrs. Claus, Elsa, Anna & Olaf, the Grinch, 1,000 cups of hot chocolate, trains, live reindeer and a sleigh, bounce houses, cookies, festive inflatables, holiday decorations, and a 30 foot tall tree that takes several days to put up and decorate.

While events like the Tree Lighting and Spooktacular are one-day parties, weeks of staff work go into making them run smoothly. For another look at your HOA Dues at Work, check out the Landscape and Grounds Review elsewhere in this issue.

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 21

SCAN TO EXPERIENCE HARBORCHASE

GREAT PLACE FOR A LUNCH DATE Where warm hospitality meets an unending array of delectable specialties.

From breakfast dishes to artisan sandwiches and pastries, don’t miss this casual café in the heart of our senior living community.

This is HarborChase. Come celebrate with us.

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Think you know Stonebridge Ranch?

Think you know Stonebridge Ranch?

See if you can answer these teasers!

Question one: The Stonebridge Ranch Trail stretches for almost how many miles? (Hint: it’s more than 5 and less than 50)

Question two: When were the tennis courts last resurfaced?

Solutions are on page 29

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 23

The Ins and Outs of Golf Carts at Stonebridge Ranch Electric cars are getting a lot of attention these days – but we also have to look at electric carts. Specifically, golf carts. (and yes, some may be gasoline powered) Believe it or not, spring weather will be upon us soon enough, and people will be taking to the streets and lanes in their golf carts.

Now, you wouldn’t expect an electric car or truck to be traveling along our Stonebridge Ranch sidewalks and paths, and you shouldn’t expect to see golf carts, either. To be blunt, golf carts are not allowed on sidewalks or walking paths that are not part of one of the golf courses in the Stonebridge Ranch footprint.

But, you say, I see them on the residential streets – what’s the difference? At Stonebridge Ranch we fall under rules from the City of McKinney, which in turn follows state regulations regarding golf carts. From the City of McKinney website:

Golf carts are allowed on public roads in McKinney when certain criteria are met.

• A golf cart may not be operated on a sidewalk.

• A golf cart is allowed on a public roadway when: > Operated in compliance within a master-planned community, such as Stonebridge Ranch, Eldorado, Craig Ranch and Custer West. > Or, operated for traveling to and from a golf course during daytime within two miles of the location where the golf cart is kept, usually the owner’s residence. > Where the posted speed limit of the street is 35 mph or less. There are two exceptions to this rule. First, the posted speed limit does not apply when the golf cart is operated in compliance within a master planned community. Second, a golf cart may cross

LAWN ORDER By the time you read this, we will have had our first deep freeze in Texas in mid-January. I hope that you watered before and after the freeze! Now is the time to look out for any plants that flashed, wilted or died. Please be patient on any woody stem plant material before removing it; it may look dead but depending on the species it may recover. Proper plant identification will provide support to ensure the following steps and you can work with our compliance team on items that need to be removed.

Mid-February marks the traditional start of gardening for Texas. While it is still too early to plant this time of year, here are some other items we need to look for.

Feeding winter annuals and bloomers with a liquid fertilizer should be done this month. Using a good liquid/water soluble fertilizer will provide the readily available nutrients to help feed and potentially grow out any Mathew Roebuck freeze damage.

Landscape & Grounds Director, SRCA This month marks ornamental trimming back for several plants. This includes ornamental grasses, the majority of perennials, and summer flowering shrubs and trees. Roses should be cut back toward the end of the month. Here is a link with information on pruning roses. https://aggie-hort.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/publications/roses/prune.html.

Winter pruning of summer flowering shrubs at this time of year will help produce more blooms when these plants flower on new wood. Pruning your large mature trees at this time is recommended as well. Without leaves it’s easier to find and remove bad branching angles, low branches, and dead wood. Pruning of live oaks is also recommended to be completed this month before Valentine’s Day to help prevent live oak wilt disease. I will note that we do not have any cases of this on record in our community. If you wish to prune your trees a qualified state-licensed arborist can assist to ensure it is done correctly. Here is a link to Texas A&M for pruning techniques to help guide you. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/earthkind/landscape/proper-pruning-techniques/ Adding compost to your plantings and/or fertilizing at this time is also highly recommended. When fertilizing this generally should be a good slow-release fertilizer. Having a good soil sample analyzed will help guide you. Lawn feeding is generally not recommended at this time, but it is highly recommended at this time to apply pre-emergent to your lawns and beds, this will help promote less weed issues for the spring. If you have lost any mulch this winter, February is a good month to monitor and reapply where it is needed. Mulching is a good practice to complete once all the winter cutbacks have been completed and all your leaves have been removed.

February is a great month for planning and checking off the punch list before spring; make sure items like those above are completed. This will help make your yard stand above the rest when spring arrives on March 19.

Meanwhile, we’re not out of winter yet and there may be more freezes to come. Keep an eye on the weather and we’ll see you here in March – and one last item! We are happy to have engaged the services of horticulture consultant Dr. Robert Moon. He has over 40 years of horticulture expertise and a passion for making every property he works with the "crown jewel." He is an expert in native Texas species and garden landscaping and has devoted his career to seeing them thrive. Check out his first newsletter for SRCA, entitled Gardening by the Moon. Dr. Moon will be sharing these newsletters with us on a quarterly basis.

See January Gardening by the Moon Here

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intersections that include a street with a posted speed limit of more than 35 mph.

• A golf cart must have: > A slow-moving vehicle emblem affixed to the rear and be built in compliance with applicable federal regulations. Registration, inspection and insurance are specifically waived under state law. (Notice from the Texas Department of Insurance: Most homeowners policies have limited coverage for golf carts and off-road vehicles, especially if you leave your property or drive them on streets. But you might be able to add coverage to your homeowner’s policy or car insurance policy, or you can buy a separate policy for that vehicle.)

• A driver of a golf cart must: > Possess a valid driver’s license. > Follow the same traffic laws as cars, including regulatory signs and the use of directional or hand signals when making turns and stops.

drivers out for joy rides. These issues need to be reported to McKinney police at 972-547-2700.

In short, treat your golf cart like a fragile small car that will never come out on top in any collision with another vehicle. It should only be driven in residential areas, never be driven on sidewalks or off road, and always be driven by a licensed driver.

Don’t tee people off as you putter about. Drive safely, and remember to keep an eagle eye on traffic! ◀

From time-to-time Stonebridge Ranch management will get reports from residents about illegal use of golf carts, which may also involve underage or non-licensed

Compliance Corner Or, how to stay off the Compliance iPad.

When do we make the rounds?

The SRCA Compliance Coordinators inspect all properties throughout Stonebridge Ranch on a rotating schedule (approximately every two weeks). Read the SRCA Covenant Enforcement and Fining Policy on the website to learn the process by which we send the compliance notices and/or assess fines for violations.

We highly encourage homeowners to call the association office at 214.733.5800 as soon as possible if they have questions upon receiving notice of a compliance issue. Please do not delay, as uncorrected violations can lead to fines on the account. If an account is not in good standing, residents (including tenants who have received transferred privleges) may not use the association amentities until the homeowner clears the balance.

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 25

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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 may use their driver’s license. All other household members, including permanent adult residents and children 3+ need a Stonebridge Ranch photo ID.

Book Club Monday, February 12 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

SRCA Boardroom & Zoom 6201 Virginia Parkway About once a year, we delve into the classics. We are reading Don Juan by George Gordon Byron (Lord Byron) for our February meeting. This can be

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downloaded for free at www.gutenberg.org (as well as over 72,000 other books - pretty cool). Feel free to come to the meeting even if you don’t make it to the end. We will discuss whether we are fans of Lord Byron.

This month we also have a bonus book: The Enchantress of Numbers: Ada Lovelace, by Jennifer Chiaverini, about Lord Byron’s daughter, which, among other things, describes Lord Byron’s fans from his time.

Join us in the Boardroom or on Zoom.

Shipping • Mailbox Rental • Banners • Notary • Printing TSA Precheck • Passport Renewals • Faxing

214-592-0855 6710 Virginia Pkwy., Suite 215 • McKinney, TX 75071

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

Travel Club Tuesday, February 13 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Community Room, 6201 Virginia Pkwy.

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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!

STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 27

BETTER HEARING KEEPS YOU CONNECTED!

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Tuesday Evening Bingo

NEW PRICE AND PRIZE AMOUNT!

(Adult Only Event) Thursday, February 13 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 Bingo! Players compete for $10 gift cards while snacking on light refreshments. This is an adults-only (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 (https://www.eventbrite. com/e/tuesday-evening-bingo-february-tickets791258043107?aff=oddtdtcreator) or contacting the management staff at (214)733-5800.

Veterans Club Meeting Thursday, February 15 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.

Community Room 6201 Virginia Parkway The Veterans Center of North Texas (VCONT) is an all-volunteer organization located in Plano, TX that offers a variety of services to North Texas veterans.

VCONT’s objective is to aid Veterans and their families and to preclude homelessness for Veterans facing eviction, loss of utilities, or transportation. Do you know a veteran in need?

Anna-Marie Welch, VCONT Site Coordinator will be available to discuss the VCONT mission and answer questions.

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Marshmallow and Hot Dog Roast

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED Wood • Iron • Gates • Perolas

Friday, February 16 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Circle Drive 6201 Virginia Parkway

Bring your family and join us for our Annual Marshmallow and Hot Dog Roast, located at the Circle Drive at 6201 Virginia Parkway from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 pm. Kids love this free event! We’ll provide fire pits, marshmallows, hot dogs, roasting sticks, and hot chocolate. Attendees will also enjoy family-friendly entertainment. This event is for Stonebridge Ranch residents only.

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| February 2024 29

EVENTS next month

Coffee, Cars & Cycles Saturday, February 17 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

(Doors open at 8:00 a.m.)

March 2024 09 11 12 14 16 21 23 28

Veterans Club Book Club

Travel Club

Morning Bingo

Coffee, Cars & Cycles, Kite & Chalk Art Festival

Annual Membership Meeting Meet the Easter Bunny

Organizational Meeting

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.

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Community Room 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 that you drive! This is a relaxed comeand-go event for residents only. Feel free to stop by while on your morning walk or bike ride. We will provide coffee and donuts in the Community Room until supplies run out. As part of this event, we are also hosting a Book, DVD, & CD exchange (bring one, take one).

Your power is unstoppable.

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STONEBRIDGE RANCH NEWS

| February 2024 31

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