Stonebridge Ranch News October 2023

Page 1

HALL OWEEN ISSUE

Stonebridge Ranch Wants You

Halloween Spooktacular

Plus

Mathew’s Lawn Order

October MISD Football

From the Archives

Halloween Safety Tips

Stonebridge’s Hidden Cemetery

October 2023 Vol. 11, Issue 10 www.stonebridgeranch.com
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S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS

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.

4 stonebridgeranch.com 07 What it takes to be a SRCA Board Member
Mounira
one
Stonebridge
good
also captured an
hasn’t
a while….)
Cover Photo ~ Mourina Roberts | SRCA Photo Contest Winner
Roberts brings us evidence of a UFO as her daughter Grace appears to have captured
at
Ranch! (We have it on
authority that her older brother
alien, but he
been seen in
The official publication of the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association (SRCA) Copyright © 2023 All rights reserved. Published by Community Matters, Inc. October 2023 Vol. 11, Issue 10 14 From the Archives MISD Football Schedule 15 Mathew’s Lawn Order Think You Know Stonebridge Ranch? 16 Community Calendar 19 Upcoming Assessment Reminder Welcome New Staff 20 Dredging Up a Cleaner Pond 21 Compliance Corner 23 Social Scene 30 Save the Date November 2023 Events All treats and no tricks! 10 12 Halloween Safety Tips
to safely enjoy Halloween 18 Stonebridge’s Hidden Cemetery
in
at Stonebridge Ranch
Ranch Community Association
How
Resting
peace
Stonebridge
Vision Statement
SRCA Board Responsibilities Halloween Spooktacular

Fall is on the way, hopefully with cooler temperatures and some much needed rain. I hope you were all able to attend the 35th anniversary of Stonebridge Ranch on Sept. 23 complete with a drone show. Due to the drought, we were not able to have a fireworks show this year. This month’s issue of the magazine features information about our upcoming annual Spooktacular event and the responsibilities of a Board member.

Board Meeting, August 24, 2023

The Board meeting was called to order at 12:30 PM. All Board members were present. Also attending were our Executive Director, Executive Administrator, Director of Compliance, Financial Manager, Lifestyle Director, Maintenance Supervisor, L & G Director, Communications Director, Vice President of Onsite Management for Grand Manors and the Association’s Attorney. Two homeowners attended the meeting to observe via Zoom. One homeowner appeared to address landscaping issues in Fountainview and concerns about rental properties landscape issues. Another homeowner asked about landscaping maintenance in natural areas. There is none in those areas, they are left in their natural state.

Prior to the remainder of the meeting, the Board formally recognized the maintenance staff for their exemplary response to an incident involving broken glass at the Aquatic Center that returned the pool to safe use for residents in record time. Maintenance Supervisor, Eric Ortega, and staff members Micah Reed and Alistair Doherty were recognized.

Consent Agenda

Approved the July 20, 2023 BOD meeting minutes. We also reviewed and approved the Long Term Investment Policy. We also approved Matt Swer as a new member of the L&G Committee.

Old Business

We reviewed and approved revisions to the Time Saving Operational Guideline for Collections, Payment Plan Policy, Commitments and Disbursements Guideline, Asset Management Guideline and Collection Committee Guideline, Short Term Investment Policy, and Common Area Tree Trimming Guideline.

We reviewed our status on the issuing of new ID cards as a part of the ACTIVENet system. We encourage all of our homeowners to stop in and get their new card.

New Business

We reviewed progress on items contained in our Strategic Plan.

Association Reports

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

Executive Session

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

We approved five solar powered weather stations to be placed throughout our community to give us better information about the weather, particularly rainfall.

We reviewed and approved a request to our L&G vendors for more detail and analytics on their current scope of work in preparation for some potential changes to our L&G contracts.

We approved the contract for repairing the Waterbury Boardwalk.

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

The meeting adjourned at 6:27 PM.

5 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023 F ROM T HE P RESIDENT
Shipping • Mailbox Rental • Banners • Notary • Printing TSA Precheck • Passport Renewals • Faxing 214-592-0855 6710 Virginia Pkwy., Suite 215 • McKinney, TX 75071

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

Connie Baxter, Eric Adams, Eric Ortega, Scott Finley, Mathew Roebuck, Norman Counts

B OARD O F D IRECTORS

President Jon Dell’Antonia

Vice President Amanda Batson

Secretary Joe Closs

Treasurer Norm Counts

Director Jim Buerkle

Director Jim Norton

Director Kristen Vartian

SRCA S TAFF

Executive Director Brian Matt

Executive Administrator Lee-Yen Elliott

Resident Services Coordinator Pamela Perry

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 Greg Hodges

Compliance Inspector Robin Kuhar

Compliance Inspector Victor Vega

Modification Coordinator Amy McAllister

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.

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October 2023 Vol. 11, Issue 10
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Responsibilities of SRCA Directors

Have you ever wondered what makes Stonebridge Ranch such a smoothly running community? Given any thought to the beautiful landscaping in both the public and residential areas? Been interested in what’s behind the inner workings that keep our amenities clean and in good repair? Wondered what it takes to be a part of the decision-making team?

If so, now’s your chance to take part in what makes Stonebridge Ranch tick.

In December, the Stonebridge Ranch Community Association will publish a Call for Candidates for the SRCA Board of Directors Election for 2024. This year, two positions are up for election to the Board, each for a term of three years. The election will take place at the 2024 SRCA Annual Meeting to be held in March. Any current SRCA homeowner of record is eligible to apply for candidacy to serve on the Board.

Although many owners may be interested in these volunteer positions, the actual breadth and depth of Board

7 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023

service should be understood prior to candidacy submittal. It is a privilege to serve on the SRCA Board; however, service can be demanding. With Board and other meeting preparations, attendance, follow-up, serving as a standing committee liaison, and additional tasks, the SRCA Board member averages a minimum of 10-15 hours per week of volunteer service to the Association.

An information meeting for owners who are considering Board service will be held in early December; watch SRCA channels for deatils. See below for the Board nomination and election process as well as key responsibilities of SRCA Board members.

Call for Candidates

When the 2024 Call for Candidates is published in December, Stonebridge Ranch homeowners will receive a notice via the official SRCA communication channels: Stonebridge Ranch News magazine, StonebridgeRanch. com, SRCA e-blasts, the official SRCA Facebook group, CiraNet Announcements, and text messaging. Each candidate must complete the Call for Candidates application and answer the included questions then sign and submit the application to the Association office. To be considered, the application must be submitted by the deadline listed on the form. When candidates sign and submit the candidate application, they agree that they understand what they are volunteering to do and indicate they have the time and desire to serve SRCA.

The SRCA Nominating Committee

The SRCA Nominating Committee is comprised of Board Directors who are not up for reelection. In January of 2024, following the submission deadline, the Nominating Committee will review all applications for candidacy. Individual interviews will then take place. During the interview process, the candidates will have opportunities to explain their reasons for seeking Board service and also be fully informed of the time commitment and other responsibilities. Following the interviews, the Committee will officially recommend candidates to be considered for election. The Committee may nominate up to two homeowners for each open position. However, any homeowner can be a candidate on the ballot whether nominated by the Committee or not.

Responsibilities of SRCA Board Members

Since the Board is legally responsible for the governance and oversight of Stonebridge Ranch, service on the Board requires extensive time and dedication. Board candidates and thus, elected directors, should bring various areas of expertise to the Board and SRCA. Stonebridge Ranch consists of 9,400+ homes in 75 villages over 5,000 acres. The Association includes 500 acres of common areas, with over 20 lakes and ponds, the Beach Club and Aquatic Center, tennis and pickleball courts, 20 miles of walking trails, a number of parks and playgrounds, and more. SRCA Board service requires knowledge, experience, expertise, and commitment. The Board has final authority for the Association’s $8M+ annual operating budget and investment portfolio. In short, service on the SRCA Board is a major responsibility.

Candidates who are selected to the slate will have been fully informed of requirements in the terms of time and commitment to serve on the SRCA board including these requirements among other duties:

• Pre-meeting preparations,

• Board meetings,

• Liaison to standing committee,

• Board-level committee pre-work and participation,

• Final authority over policy/governance setting,

• Strategy identification and project execution, and

• Other board-level projects and assignments.

CALL FOR CANDIDATES

Any SRCA homeowner interested in serving on the SRCA Board of Directors submits the Candidate Application.

APPLICATION REVIEW

Those recommended by the NC will be designated on the ballot. All SRCA homeowners who submitted the application and want to appear on the ballot will be listed as candidates.

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ELECTION VOTING
homeowners will vote to fill SRCA Board Director vacancies.
SRCA
BALLOT PREPARATION
The SRCA Nominating Committee (NC) reviews all applications, interviews candidates, and selects candidates for election recommendation.

To help homeowners determine if Board service is a good fit for them, service on one of our six volunteer committees is a great way to test the waters. Through committee service, which is limited to about 50 owners, committee members volunteer their time and expertise; learn about SRCA services, functions, and operations; and give back to our large community.

The SRCA committees include Amenities, Communications, Finance, Landscape and Grounds, Lifestyle, and Modifications. With this broad selection of volunteer opportunities, you are sure to find a committee that suits your expertise and interest in SRCA. Volunteer applications are welcome year-round. Volunteer applications are welcome year-round. The 2023 Meeting Schedule shown here gives an idea of how and when Board members are engaged. ◀

9 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
Stonebridge Ranch Community Association Board of Directors 2023 Meeting Schedule January 26 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm February 23 Board of Directors & Annual Meeting Prep 12:30 pm March 16 Annual Membership & Organizational Meeting 6:30 pm – 9 pm March 23 Board of Directors Meeting (Organizational Meeting if Needed) 12:30 pm April 27 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm May 25 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm June 22 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm July 20 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm August 24 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm September 28 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm October 12 Board of Directors & Budget Review Meeting 12:30 pm November 16 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm December 14 Board of Directors Meeting 12:30 pm
10 Halloween Spooktacular! TIME Saturday, October 21 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. LOCATION Beach & Tennis Club 6201 Virginia Parkway McKinney TX 75071 TRAIN IN PRIVATE GET RESULTS! Ashley Greene Actress & Entrepreneur Experience the NEXT GENERATION of personal training. Schedule your FREE FIRST SESSION today and receive $100 OFF ANY PACKAGE! Must mention Stonebridge Ranch News when scheduling. C a ll 214-550-7799 o r v i s it www.nexgenfitness.com Follow Us 6841 Virginia Pkwy., M c K i n ney, T X 750 7 1

One of your favorite family-fun events of the year is here! Stonebridge Ranch residents are invited to join us on Saturday, October 21st from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for a free evening of games and activities. Be sure to dress up in your best costume and bring your bags for trick-or-treating. DJ Uptown Sound will be on hand to play fun Halloween tunes. You’ll also enjoy bounce houses and games.

The fun won’t end there! Local merchants will be here as well, with table set-ups, banners, and unique activities for children. (Past games and giveaways have included parading mascots and impersonators, hair and face painting, balloon hats, cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn machines, and more. This year will be similar, but unique.)

Area merchants, if you are interested in participating, please contact Connie Baxter, Lifestyle Director, at connie.baxter@grandmanors.com or (214) 764-6366. Merchant space is limited, and merchant RSVP is required by October 16th, 2023. Volunteers are also welcome to support this popular

event as well. Earn Green Chords or other community service hours by helping us decorate and set up or by dressing up in a costume and working the event. Decorating and set-up begin at 10:00 a.m. Please contact Connie Baxter if you would like to volunteer. ◀

11 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023 CALL TODAY FOR A SYSTEM SERVICE & CLEANING CLEAR THE COBWEBS Call Us Today! 214-200-4265 www.bellmechanical.com 1620 Rafe Dr. # 114, Carrollton, TX 75006 • TACLA001762C Regulated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations P.O. Box 12157, Austin, TX 78711 800.803.9202, 512.464.6599 Big Enough to Deliver Small Enough to Care. Maintenance Customers Only. Excludes Trip Fee. Exp. 10/31 $115 Per Additional Unit. Ask for Details. Exp. 10/31 Need a new home comfort system? GET REBATES UP TO $2,000 when you purchase a new Lennox Ultimate Comfort System! SCAN ME

HALLOWEEN SAFETY

Halloween falls on Tuesday this year, and the little ghosts and goblins will be out in force. Stonebridge Ranch kids are no exception.

Before you take your kids out on the prowl for goodies, think about some of these top tips for Halloween safety from the McKinney Police Department, SafeKids.org, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration and Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Number one on the list – and in fact on many lists – is carrying a flashlight or glow stick. “While Texas trick or treating takes place primarily in the waning daylight, sunset this Halloween in McKinney is at 6:36 PM, and it will take about another hour after that for it to get dark,” says McKinney Crime Prevention and Education Officer Shannon Seabrook. “Use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and treat bags.”

Always join kids under age 12 for their trick-ortreating. Officer Seabrook says younger children should never be allowed to wander away from adults. Older children should travel in groups and remain in familiar areas.

Teach your children to never go into a stranger’s home or car. “Only approach houses that are welllit and never go into anyone’s home,” says Officer Seabrook.

Smaller kids will be excited! Make sure they slow down to avoid tripping, and that they cross streets only at corners or crosswalks. Look both ways! The National Safety Council says children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day in the year.

Don’t let costumes obscure vision. Speaking of vision, decorative contact lenses have become very popular. See an eye care professional

for proper fitting. Decorative lenses sold online or in a costume store without a prescription are illegal and could cause harm up to and including blindness.

Make sure costumes are made of flame-resistant materials, whether home made or store bought.

Once you’re back home, make sure an adult examines all the treats for safety and possible food allergies. If you have small children, remove items that could cause choking such as gum or hard candies.

Make sure your kids know not to eat anything that isn’t commercially wrapped – and only after you’ve inspected it for unusual discoloration, pin holes, or tears in wrappers. If it’s suspicious, throw it out. “Homemade treats should only be consumed if parents know where the treats came from,” says Seabrook.

You may also find your child is enamored of their face painting and makeup – but it needs to come off before bed to prevent skin and/or eye irritation. Be sure you test makeup at least 24 – 48 hours in advance to make sure there is no skin irritation.

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Even though we say trick or treat, it’s not an open invitation. Officer Seabrook says “Don’t play pranks. Damaging others’ property is a crime and a punishable offense.”

Finally, take part in the event yourself! Many families dress up together as characters from their favorite TV shows or movies.

Whatever you choose, be ready to answer the call on October 31st…

13 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023

McKinney Boyd High School Broncos

10/13/2023 at 7:00 PM Boyd HS vs. Prosper - Children’s Health Stadium | Prosper ISD

10/19/2023 at 7:00 PM Boyd HS vs Little Elm - MISD Stadium

10/27/2023 at 7:00 PM Boyd HS vs Rock Hill - MISD Stadium

McKinney High School Lions

10/13/2023 at 7:00 PM McKinney HS vs Allen - MISD Stadium

10/20/2023 at 7:00 PM McKinney HS vs Prosper Rockhill - Children’s Health Stadium | Prosper ISD

10/27/2023 at 7:00 PM McKinney HS vs Denton Guyer - C.H. Collins Stadium

McKinney North High School Bulldogs

10/5/2023 at 7:00 PM North HS vs West Mesquite HOMECOMING - MISD Stadium

10/13/2023 at 7:30 PM North HS vs Lufkin - Lufkin Abe Martin Stadium

10/20/2023 at 7:00 PM North HS vs Longview - MISD Stadium

10/27/2023 at 7:00 PM North HS vs Forney - City Bank Stadium

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Think you know Stonebridge Ranch?

ink you know Stonebridge Ranch?

See if you can answer these teasers!

Question one: Roughly, how many acres at Stonebridge Ranch are preserved as open space?

Question two: Which village has the most homes?

Solutions are on page 29

LAWN ORDER

Fall is here! Last month we discussed preparing for fall. Now it’s time to act.

As we recover from our 4th driest summer on record and begin planting new landscapes and lawns, a good fertilization will help build your root systems. Some experts are predicting a more unseasonably cold, and stormy winter. A fertilization will help build a better and healthier landscape as it matures or re-establishes prior to winter. Mulching is also a good way to help protect your plants as well as improve the aesthetics of your property. Any mulch that has faded or diminished in your beds should be replaced. Mulching will help improve organic matters in your soil, retain soil moisture, and help insulate your roots from freezing.

You should also be thinking about your fall or winter color for your yard. Pumpkins, crotons, petunias, dianthus, and ornamental peppers will create a great fall display till the first freeze or for Thanksgiving. For winter color we should be looking for pansies, violas, and dianthus. All these plants are good seasonal color plants and building blocks for a foundation of a color display. Have fun with it while it is still pleasant outdoors!

For your irrigation system, make sure your programming is reduced so you don’t over-water your property and run down in the streets or affect your neighbor. This is also a good time to inspect your irrigation system rain/freeze sensor to make sure it is functioning properly. A good sensor will help keep you from watering when the temperatures dip to freeze/frost temperatures. In the month of November this could potentially happen. This will help you prevent icy sidewalks and freezes that damage your plant material.

If you have any plant material that cannot remain outdoors in cooler weather, give them protection by moving them into your home or garage – but remember you’ll want to bring them out for a bit on clement days. Make sure they are adequately watered during these times, and do not leave certain plants in the dark for too long; they need sunlight in order to be able to store energy to survive. If you cannot bring plants inside, be prepared to cover your delicate plants when needed. Plan to buy freeze protection blankets from your local hardware stores; these blankets will help protect your plants when the thermometer dips below 32 degrees. Freeze protection blankets made from polypropylene allow light transmission, airflow and moisture to your plants but help prevent frost damage and assist in insulating your plants with the warmer ground temperatures. If you need these products, it is best to have them on hand rather than buying them at the last-minute rush on a very cold afternoon!

Due to the size of Stonebridge Ranch, Mathew cannot answer individual landscaping and lawn care questions.

15 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
Mathew Roebuck Landscape & Grounds Director, SRCA

EVENTS

Book Club, 7 PM (BR

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

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

16 stonebridgeranch.com SU N M O N TU E
can
subscribe to
SRCA communivcation channels for 31 30 29 25 24 23 22 18 17 16 15 11 10 09 08 04 03 02 01 L & G Committee 9:30 AM (BR); Committee Meeting, Junior Tennis, 4 to Social Committee 10 AM (BR)
Due to print lead times, all events listed here are subject to change or You
also
other
Junior Tennis, 4 to Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)) Junior Tennis, 4 to
13
+ Zoom) Junior Tennnis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
October 2023 Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to

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.

Communications Committee Meeting, 8:30 AM (Zoom)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC) 7 pm (BTC)

Committee Meeting, Amenities Meeting, 3:30 PM (BR) 7 pm (BTC)

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Evening on the Veranda, 7 PM (BTC)

Coffee, Cars & Cycles, 8:30 AM (CR & Circle Drive); Electronics & Paper Shredding, 9:30 AM (Tennis Courts Parking Lot)

pm (BTC)

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

Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)

Jazz Under the Stars, 7 PM (Circle Drive)

Halloween Spooktacular, 4 PM (BTC)

17 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
KEY AC = Aquatic Center, BTC = Beach & Tennis Club, BR = Board Room, CR = Communit y Room, SBP = Stonebridge Plaza Weekly Meet-ups, Monthly/Annual Events, Committees S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH C OMMUNITY A SSOCIATION, I NC. 6201 Virginia Parkway | McKinney, TX 75071 214.733.5800
WE D TH U FR I SAT
28 27 26 21 20 19 14 13 12 07 06 05
7
7
Committee Meeting,
pm (BTC) Junior Tennis, 4 to 7 pm (BTC)
21 20

George McGarrah Cemetery

A member of the Peters Colony, George McGarrah (1804-1879) brought his family to this area in the 1840s. Prior to his arrival in Texas, McGarrah had lived in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where he is credited with helping to build many of the historic structures still extant in that city.

McGarrah’s wife had died in Arkansas in 1838 while giving birth to their daughter, Harriett. George McGarrah and his three children established a new home near this site, and he later married Sarah Ford.

Residents of the Stonebridge Briar Ridge Village know something other residents of Stonebridge may not know – that there is a cemetery on the grounds of Stonebridge Ranch.

The 264 homes of Briar Ridge share their village with the George McGarrah family cemetery. Set behind a gated stone wall, the small cemetery contains the graves of ten people, and a Texas Historical Marker put up in 1988 tells their story.

The McGarrah Cemetery contains ten graves. George McGarrah had set aside one-seventh of an acre on his land to be used for a family cemetery. He was the first person to be buried here, in 1879. Two of his grandchildren, George W. (1870-1887) and Mattie A. (1874-1894) Ottenhausen, children of Harriet McGarrah and her husband Henry Ottenhausen, were the next interred in the family plot. Sarah Ford McGarrah was buried next to her husband in 1896. Also interred here are Harriet McGarrah

Ottenhausen (1838-1930), Henry Ottenhausen (18391911), and his mother, Christina Ousenkoff

Ottenhausen (1810-1904).”

There are also three unmarked graves, those of two infants and a “family slave” name unknown.

According to the McGarrah Cemetery Association, the name “Ottenhausen” on the historical plaque should read “Ottenhouse,” the actual name on the cemetery markers.

George McGarrah was joined by his brother Jack in settling what would become McKinney.

Jack was the first postmaster and also owned the trading post in the settlement.

McKinney was incorporated in 1849. ◀

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Upcoming Assessment Reminder

It’s October, and that means trick or treat, Thanksgiving turkeys, and the holidays are just around the corner here at Stonebridge Ranch. While you’re planning your seasonal giving, don’t forget to budget for your annual Stonebridge Ranch Community Association assessment.

Your SRCA assessment will be sent out on December 1st, and is due on January 1st.

Just a reminder – 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 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.

Your annual SRCA assessment goes toward the annual budget which includes upkeep of amenities, landscaping, community events, on-site staff, and repair and replacement, among others.

Welcome to the team!

Stonebridge Ranch Community Association is proud to announce the addition of Greg Hodges to the Compliance Inspector team.

Greg knows and understands the high standards to which SRCA holds itself and brings extensive experience in real estate development and homebuilding to the table. Additionally, Greg has served on the boards of several HOA’s. Greg looks forward to bringing his many years of real estate experience to the benefit of SRCA.

Greg is delighted to be a resident of Stonebridge Ranch with his sweetheart and their two dogs. He enjoys dining at McKinney’s many great restaurants, traveling, and working out in his spare time.

Greg Hodges

19 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
News.
Full information, including payment options, will be in next month’s Stonebridge Ranch

Dredging Up a Cleaner Pond

Dredging is defined as the act of removing mud or unwanted material from the bottom of a river, lake, or harbor to make it deeper. Dredging is also used to search for something under water, though Stonebridge Ranch residents can pretty well discount the odds of finding the late Jimmy Hoffa here.

With that in mind, people cruising along Stonebridge Drive near Millard Pond in July may have noticed a barge out in the pond and large “bags” stretched out on the bank.

Residents of Stratford Manor, Heritage, Wyndsor Grove, Saddlehorn Ridge, and Brightwood Villages whose property backs up to Millard Pond got a front row seat to a unique dredging operation.

Stonebridge Ranch contracted ENVIROdredge, a full-service aquatic restoration and dredging company to clean up Millard Pond.

usually in 120 days – it is re-purposed as fertile, organic topsoil. Right now the bags are all that remain of the operation as water slowly evaporates out of them. When they are fully dry, they will be removed.

Eric Ortega, Stonebridge Ranch Maintenance Supervisor, says “The dredging removed sediment accumulation that negatively impacted recreational benefits of the water, including simply relaxing by the shore. Better water quality means a healthier aquatic eco-system – and the process is designed to limit odor as much as possible.”

The quiet and unobtrusive dredging process removed accumulated sediment, muck, and debris from the water, making the pond cleaner and more oxygen rich for aquatic life.

ENVIROdredge uses what’s called hydraulic dredging with a small one-man barge that was floating on Millard Pond and pumped slurry through a temporary pipeline into large bags on land that let water back out into the pond but contains the solids. Once these solid materials dry within the bags –

20 stonebridgeranch.com

The fill bags are surrounded with bales of hay for protection. The dredging system used safe, chemicalfree and environmentally friendly procedures.

Ortega says other water features within Stonebridge Ranch will also be undergoing dredging as needed to return them to their normally pristine conditions. “The great thing about this system is that it’s quiet, it’s out of the way, and no one really knows it’s taking place. Unless you really get out and look for it, it’s completely hidden away.”

Ortega says more dredging will take place at Stonebridge Ranch in 2024. ◀

Compliance Corner

FALL OUT WARNING

It’s October so we’re getting into fall foilage and color – and also into falling leaves. Section 9.23 of the SRCA Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) outlines the basics of lawn maintenance required in Stonebridge Ranch.

Taking care of a leaf-covered lawn falls under these two headings:

• prompt removal of all litter, trash, refuse and waste

• keeping lawn and landscaped areas alive, free of weeds, and attractive Rake and bag (or mulch). Place bags at curb on your regular trash pick up day.

We know a lot of you go all out in your Halloween decor. If you want to show it off, send a picture (.jpg, portrait format) to Communications Director Scott Finley at scott.finley@grandmanors.com and we’ll show off a few in the November magazine.

Remember: Seasonal/holiday lighting or decorations may be displayed one month prior to the holiday and must be removed no later then one month after the date of the holiday being celebrated. (Exception: December holiday lighting may be displayed commencing November 1st of each year.

21 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
how to stay off the Compliance iPad.
Compliance Corner Or,

RETIRE IN STYLE

Retire in style Whether it’s fine dining, exciting events or personalized care you’re seeking, our senior living community allows you to thrive This is HarborChase. Come celebrate with us

22 stonebridgeranch.com E X P L O R E LU X U R Y SENIOR L I V ING IN MCKINN E Y
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SCAN TO EXPERIENCE HARBORCHASE

October 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.

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, October 9

7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

SRCA Boardroom, 6201 Virginia Parkway

The book selection this month is The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman. (Book 3 of the Thursday Murder Club series)

In October, we return to our favorite mystery series about the Thursday Murder Club to uncover what mysterious death needs to be solved by Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron, and Ibrahim at Cooper’s Chase, their posh retirement village.

The Steven Spielberg movie release date for the Thursday Murder Club is still a mystery, but we know the release of the fourth book in the series is 9/19. That may make the multiple library copies of The Bullet That Missed vanish just as you try to sleuth one out at one of the surrounding libraries. You may want to investigate getting on the waiting list sooner rather than later.

Everyone is welcome to join us in the Boardroom or on Zoom. 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

Travel Club

Tuesday, October 12

9:00 a.m. – 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!

23 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
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Tuesday Evening Bingo (Adult Only Event)

Tuesday, October 10

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Community Room

6201 Virginia Pkwy.

Want a chance to win a prize and to have some mid-week fun? Join us for an evening of Bingo! 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/tuesday-evening-bingonight-october-tickets-710608708777 or contacting the management staff at (214)733-5800.

Evening on the Veranda

Friday, October 13

7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Beach Club Veranda

6201 Virginia Parkway

Are you looking for a relaxing way to end a busy week? We have the perfect local spot where you can enjoy the sunset, listen to some great music, sip your favorite wine, and enjoy a date night or an evening out with friends. The gates open at 7:00 p.m., and The Lucky Finger Band will entertain from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Lucky Finger is a high-energy party band from Texas that plays your favorite 80s, 90s, Motown, current dance, pop, and country music. They perform the best music across all genres of music and their show gives everyone a full concert experience. We will provide snacks, sodas, water, and fire pits – plus marshmallows and skewers for roasting. Be sure to pack your favorite finger foods

24 stonebridgeranch.com
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and BYOB in non-breakable containers. This nonswimming, non-smoking event is for adults 21+ only. (Proof of age, such as a TX driver’s license, is required to enter.) Residents with a valid form of ID get in free. Guests pay $5 each at the gate. (We appreciate exact change, and we do not accept credit cards or bills larger than $20.)

http://www.alltexasbands.com/Lucky-finger-band. html?fbclid=IwAR2RHRBLLPsIRC5q7VZ0vb3Mz9rtDzKw_QG9uCDIjU5n1UfkmKJjIJOOu5k

Coffee, Cars & Cycles

Saturday, October 14

8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Community

Room and Circle Drive

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 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. As part of this event, we are also hosting a Book, DVD, & CD exchange (bring one, take one).

25 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
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Electronics Recycling & Paper Shredding Event

Saturday, October 14

9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tennis Courts Parking Lot

Is it time to do some fall cleaning? Stonebridge Ranch is once again partnering with United Electronic Recycling (UER) to help reduce, reuse, and recycle electronic equipment. Bring your old, broken, or unwanted electronic equipment (including CRT televisions). UER will make sure they are properly recycled.

In addition, we will provide a shredding truck for on-site paper and document destruction. Staples are permitted, but please remove all other paper clips, bindings, etc. We will not accept cardboard for recycling. If you bring your paper in a cardboard box, we will return the box to you.

There is no charge for dropping off any type of item. To view the list of acceptable items, visit the Event Calendar at www.stonebridgeranch.com/events/. This event is for Stonebridge Ranch residents only. Participants must show a Stonebridge Ranch ID or a valid drivers license as proof of residency.

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Jazz Under the Stars

Friday, October 20

7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Circle Drive

6201 Virginia Parkway

We invite Stonebridge households to the Circle Drive at the Beach & Tennis Club for a relaxing evening of live music. Our musical guest is the McKinney Dance Band. The McKinney Dance Band is a Jazz Orchestra comprised of 17 musicians and 2 vocalists. They strive to perform authentic music from the big band era in a way that engages audiences, whether dancing or listening. The music they perform is by great American composers like Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Cole Porter, and Count Basie, as well as songs made famous by artists like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Ella Fitzgerald. The McKinney Dance Band is part of the McKinney Community Band and is funded, in part, by

the McKinney Arts Commission. They perform 2 public concerts annually at the McKinney Performing Arts Center and several other events in and around McKinney. Attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets, plus coolers filled with snacks. BYOB is permitted, but glass containers and smoking are not. This event is for residents only.

27 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023
28 stonebridgeranch.com REGULATED BY THE TX DEPT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION, P.O.BOX 12157, AUSTIN, TX 78711, 1-800-803-9202, 512-463-6599, WWW.TDLR.TEXAS.GOV TACLA 115858C Financing Available • Paid-in-Full Discounts First Responders Discount Residential & Commercial 469.908.2828 hvacservicesanna.com 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

Halloween Spooktacular

Saturday, October 21

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Beach & Tennis Club

One of your favorite family-fun events of the year is here! Stonebridge Ranch residents are invited to join us for a free evening of games and activities. Be sure to dress up in your best costume and bring your bags for trick-ortreating. DJ Uptown Sound will be on hand to play fun Halloween tunes. You’ll also enjoy a Big Tex Petting Zoo, bounce houses, and games.

The fun won’t end there! Local merchants will be here, as well, with table set-ups, banners, and unique activities for children. (Past games and giveaways have included parading mascots and impersonators, hair and face painting, balloon hats, cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn machines, and more. This year will be similar but unique.)

Area merchants, if you are interested in participating, please contact Connie Baxter, Lifestyle Director, at connie.baxter@grandmanors.com or (214)764-6366. Merchant space is limited, and merchant RSVPs are required by October 12th, 2023.

Volunteers are also welcome to support this popular event as well. Earn Green Chords or other community service hours by helping us decorate and set up or by dressing up in a costume and working the event. Decorating and set-up begin at 10:00 a.m. Please contact Connie Baxter if you would like to volunteer.

Think You Know

Answer 1: 500

Answer 2: Fountain View, with 379 homes

29 S TONEBRIDGE R ANCH N EWS | October 2023 Travis Nicholson travis.acefence@gmail.com 214-326-7476 Serving the Dallas Area for Over 45 Years WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED Wood • Iron • Gates • Perolas

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

30 stonebridgeranch.com 04 13 14 16 18 30 Tag A Truck Book Club Travel Club Morning Bingo Co ee, Cars & Cycles Stonebridge Ranch 101 November 2023 EVENTS next
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