Stoneybrook Estero
Stoneybrook Happenings
DENIS OLDANI, PRESIDENT HOA
Greetings Neighbors,
Happy April! We hope this newsletter finds you well as we welcome the warmer days. Our Annual Meeting on March 18 was a great success, with an impressive turnout. We’re thrilled to report that we received a record-breaking 521 proxies, with e-voting proving to be a highly popular and efficient method. Thank you to everyone who participated! Your board has been diligently working to enhance our community.
Here are some key achievements from the past year.
Community Center Upgrades
The remodel is now complete, providing an updated and more functional space. Two new air conditioners have been installed, ensuring comfortable temperatures yearround. The attic has been insulated for improved energy efficiency. Lighting throughout the center has been converted to LED, reducing energy consumption and providing brighter illumination.
Website And Voting Enhancements
Our website has been updated to comply with new state statute requirements. We’ve implemented a new e-voting and survey system, streamlining communication and participation.
Recreational Area Improvements
The soccer field lights have been repaired, allowing for continued evening activities. The basketball court lights were upgraded to LED. Both satellite pool houses have been freshly painted, enhancing their appearance. The shed outside the side door was moved next to the maintenance shed and hazardous materials are now being stored in a more organized and safe manner. The area where the shed previously stood has been transformed into a paver patio surrounded by shrubs, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the area. Additionally, this area now conveniently houses our trash containers. We’ve brought our janitorial services in-house, enabling us to increase service hours by 10 per week for the same cost.
We are committed to maintaining and improving our community for everyone’s enjoyment. Thank you for your continued support.
Stay safe.
WATER AEROBICS CLASS
Water aerobics will start at 9 a.m. and end at 10 a.m.
March Coffee, Tea And Chat
JOAN BIANCO
The Stoneybrook community gathered for a St. Patrick’s coffee that was more festive than a leprechaun’s danceoff. Cheerful conversations flowed, while freshly brewed coffee and treats vanished faster than gold at the end of a rainbow, reflecting the shared joy of the morning.
With green outfits and neighbors brimming with good spirits, the morning reached its peak when our very own leprechaun (Kathy Rockamann) made
an appearance, spreading mischief and smiles, along with a perfect blend of laughter, warmth, and charm.
Events like these remind us of the magic that happens when neighbors come together, proving that Stoneybrook truly is a pot of gold in our lives.
Sláine (Cheers)
KATHY ROCKAMANN - STONEYBROOK'S LEPRECHAUN.
Monthly Motivation
JOSHUA A. SKY, CAREER COACH AND LEADERSHIP TRAINER
THANKSGIVING IS NOT JUST FOR THE FALL
Our calendars tell us that Thanksgiving falls in late November. But let’s not forget to continue embracing the spirit of gratitude and appreciation throughout the entire year.
At work, at home, or in your community, gestures of giving thanks are easy to do:
• Identify at least one specific thing that someone did for you or that contributed to a cause.
• Be clear about why what they did mattered to you, your relationship, or the organization. Determine two or three points about what they did and how they did it. Commit those points to memory.
• Communicate all this with that person. If you meet in person or virtually, maintain good eye contact and open body language. If on the phone, use your voice to express some positive energy of gratitude.
• Thank them for what they did and how they did it. Tell them how it impacted you. Perhaps, tell them also how it made you feel. Be open to making a new or deeper connection.
• As you close, thank them, with a handshake, fist bump, pat on the back, hug if appropriate, or even follow up with a handwritten note, not an email. Handwritten notes, once more common, take longer and show that you truly care.
When was the last time someone thanked you in such a way that made you realize that they truly meant it? Didn’t it feel good? Remember that you have the power to do that for others! And you will feel good thanking someone else.
“Make it a habit to tell people, ‘Thank you.’ To express your appreciation sincerely and without the expectation of anything in return. Truly appreciate those around you, and you’ll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you’ll find that you have more of it.” – Ralph Marston
TLP Tidbit$
THOMAS L. PATRICCA, CFP ® , CEPS, AEP ®
INVESTING 101: GROW YOUR WEALTH (WITHOUT LOSING SLEEP)
My daughter, who is a junior in college, recently asked me to give a presentation to her and her sorority sisters about the basics of money. Her sorority is for women entering STEM careers, and many of them will have great jobs right out of college. Naturally, she wanted to make sure her “sisters” had the fundamental knowledge to be
responsible and financially successful as they head into the world. So, she asked me to break down the essential concepts they need to know—without making it feel like a lecture from their parents.
The following includes some of the key topics I covered with them.
Investing 101: Grow Your Wealth (Without Losing Sleep)
Let’s be honest—investing can sound as intimidating as a 500-page tax code. But don’t worry, we’re breaking it down into bite-sized, stress-free nuggets.
The Stock Market: Where the Magic (And Volatility) Happens
Stocks are like slices of a big corporate pie. Buy some Apple stock? Congrats, you own a fraction of the company (just don’t expect Tim Cook to take your calls). Stocks come in flavors:
• Blue-chip stocks – Big, stable companies (think Coca-Cola, Microsoft).
• Growth stocks – Fast movers (hello, Tesla!), but buckle up for the ride.
• Dividend stocks – Pay you regularly, like a financial high-five.
Bonds: The Boring But Reliable Friend
Bonds are like IOUs. You lend money to a company or the government, and they pay you interest. Types include:
• Treasury bonds – Backed by Uncle Sam (low risk, low excitement).
• Municipal bonds – Fund things like roads and schools, often tax-free!
• Corporate bonds – Riskier, but higher returns.
The Efficient Frontier: Fancy Talk For Smart Investing
A well-balanced portfolio is like a great meal—diverse and satisfying. The Efficient Frontier is just a fancy way of saying, “Mix different investments to maximize returns without unnecessary risk.”
The Power Of Compounding: Your Money’s Superpower
Invest early, and let your money make money. A single $1,000 investment at 8% annual growth turns into $10,000 in 30
years. Wait 10 years to start? You’ll have half as much.
Cash Flow And Credit Cards: Handle With Care
Credit cards can be your best friend—or a financial villain. The average credit card interest rate hovers around 26%, meaning unpaid balances turn into money-eating monsters. Use them smartly:
• Pay off balances each month.
• Use rewards wisely.
• Never buy what you can’t afford (yes, even that limited-edition gadget).
Good Debt Vs. Bad Debt: Know The Difference
• Good debt: Helps build wealth (mortgages, student loans, business loans).
• Bad debt: High-interest debt that drains your wallet (credit card splurges, payday loans).
Final Thoughts
Invest wisely, avoid bad debt, and start early—your future self will thank you. And if this all still feels overwhelming, that’s what financial planners are for and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® is your best bet to help you reach your financial goals.
An Inspiring Leadership Transition: A New
Engage Estero is pleased to announce an exciting leadership transition strengthening its commitment to our community’s well-being. Jim Gilmartin, the president, will move on to the board of directors. This move allows Jim to continue guiding Engage Estero with his visionary insights
and strategic expertise, ensuring our organization remains steadfast in its mission to enhance the quality of life in Estero.
Allan Bowditch, Engage Estero’s chief communications officer, is stepping into the role of president.
Allan and his communications team have enhanced the quality of the information Engage Estero provides to its growing number of residents, now over 12,000. Bowditch’s background as former CEO and chairman of a leading international marketing consulting organization and his leadership style position him perfectly to lead Engage Estero into this new era.
Lisa Khorey will oversee Communications with Mike Wasson as deputy. The rest of the team comprises Kim Dailey, the Communications coordinator and webmaster; Heather Doane; Zach Katkin; and Kim Henderson.
New Chapter For Engage Estero
SOME KEY OUTCOMES FROM THE COMMUNITY MEETING ON ROAD SAFETY FEB. 26
Although a complete summary of the meeting and the YouTube video are available on the website www.esterotoday.com, a few key points emerged.
• During the 5 years of a recent crash analysis, there were 3,000 crashes in Estero! Eighty of these resulted in a serious injury or fatality. This is higher than the expected average in Florida.
Mathew Maher, senior associate, traffic engineer, Stantec Consulting, has put forward several important recommendations:
• To limit traffic turning right or left at the U.S. 41 and Williams Road light only on the green arrow. They will be prevented from turning across the south and north moving traffic after the green arrow signal has stopped – it will then be red.
• Line of sight: Ensuring that landscaping does not interfere with one’s ability to see clearly at a junction.
• Improving crosswalk visibility: Parallel lines are being replaced by cross-hatching and ladder-style markings that are far more visible. Lighting is also a factor in specific locations that involves floodlighting solutions focused on the pedestrians.
• Vehicle Detection Technology to avoid T-bone crashes at traffic lights: In Lakeland, the municipality has
implemented several modifications. We’re seeing measures that could be adapted to county or state signals in the future.
• The value and importance of roundabouts in reducing serious accidents and speeding traffic flow.
Carmen Monroy, senior transportation manager, CTS Engineering, explained the importance of embracing workforce housing in Estero to help reduce commuter traffic. Ensuring local workers have more affordable apartments or homes not only reduces traffic coming into Estero but encourages key workers like teachers, healthcare workers, support staff of many types, and first responders to remain in their place of
work to avoid disruption and the difficulties employers face in having to seek new staff repeatedly.
Don Scott, executive director of the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), referred to the earlier details of the proposed MPO plan:
• I-75 widening from Golden Gate Parkway to Corkscrew Road – 6 to 8 lanes
• Three Oaks Extension from North of Alico Road to Daniels Parkway – New four lanes, Phase I under CST
• I-75 and Daniels Interchange – DDI (diamond exchange) and 8 lanes from Fiddlesticks to I-75 (8 lanes in Three Oaks, Phase II)
• Corkscrew Road from Bella Terra to East of Alico Road – 2 to 4 lanes under CST completion Spring 2026
• Alico Road Connector from Airport Haul Road to SR 82 – New four lanes
The projects that will start soon (in 2 years) include widening I-75 to 8 lanes from Golden Gate to Corkscrew Road, which should be accomplished in the next 5 years. Three Oaks Parkway will also be extended from Alico Road to Daniels, and an 8-lane section on Daniels from Fiddlesticks to the I-75 interchange will also be completed.
The extensive information, together with the many questions that were addressed, can be accessed on the website www. esterotoday.com.
THE APRIL COMMUNITY MEETING AT THE ESTERO RECREATION CENTER APRIL 23 AT 10:30 A.M.
The meeting will cover:
• Improvements in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
• Improvements in getting AEDs to patients in need quickly.
• The Rights for Clean Water in Greater Estero.
Engage Estero is pleased to inform residents of the upcoming meeting on April 23 at 10:30 a.m. at the Estero Recreational Center. The topics being covered will provide important information about the steps being taken locally and elsewhere that could provide valuable information to help enhance the quality of life that Estero can offer residents. The speakers are:
• Dr. Mark Bloomston, M.D., medical director, Florida Center for Pancreatic Diseases, Lee Health.
• Brian Hurwitz, member of the Engage Estero Health Committee.
• Joseph Bonasia, operations and communications director for FloridaRightToCleanWater.org.
At Engage Estero, we believe in the strength of the community. As a nonpartisan, nonpolitical nonprofit, we utilize evidence-based research to provide nonbiased information about community issues, empowering you to improve your quality of life.
April Book Summary
THE MEASURE: A NOVEL
BY NIKKI ERLICK
It seems like any other day. You wake up, pour a cup of coffee, and head out. But today, when you open your front door, waiting for you is a small wooden box.
This box holds your fate inside: the answer to the exact number of years you will live. From suburban doorsteps to desert tents, every person on every continent receives the same box.
In an instant, the world is thrust into a collective frenzy. Where did these boxes come from? What do they mean? Is there truth to what they promise?
As society comes together and pulls apart, everyone faces the same shocking choice: Do they wish to know how long they’ll live? And, if so, what will they do with that knowledge?
Book Club-2025
JEWEL FAERBER
We meet in our library. As always, all are welcome to participate in the discussion. If you did not read the book, a printed summary of the book is given out before our discussions. If you have read a book that you think we would enjoy reading, please bring the title and the author’s name. We are always looking for new novels to read.
Please email Jewel at jcf0519@ comcast.net so we will know how many people plan to attend.
Our Book Club will meet the third Monday of every month from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
April 21 The Measure by Nikki Erlick May 19 The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Corey Bank
Justein Matthias
Webmaster
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
www.seabreezecommunications.com
Bingo Nights
JEWEL FAERBER AND THE ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE
JEWEL’S EMAIL: JCF0519@COMCAST.NET
Reminder: Please email Jewel if you are attending so we can distance the tables. If we do not get 10 people, bingo will be canceled.
2025- BINGO AFTER THE HOLIDAYS
UPCOMING DATES ARE: April 10 and 24 May 8 and 15
From 7 to 9 p.m. in the Stoneybrook Clubhouse.
Please bring your masks (optional). Stay safe and take care of yourselves.
• $10 for 3 cards/game. We play 10 double games.
• Daubers are available for purchase at $1.50 each.
• BYOB and snacks.
• 18-plus years of age only (Florida state law)
Seabreeze Communications, Inc. does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc.
The Publisher is not responsible or liable for misinformation or misprints herein contained and reserves the right to accept or reject all copy deemed unsuitable for publication.
Stoneybrook Ladies’ Luncheons
The following ladies’ luncheons have been scheduled:
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 11:30 a.m.
Zorba’s Mediterranean Grille 9106 Bonita Beach Road SE Bonita Springs
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 11:30 a.m.
Cantina 109 Gulf Coast Town Center
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 TBD
You may sign up for all luncheons at the community center to have your name placed on the list. If you sign up and later cannot attend, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance. Carpooling is encouraged. If you have any questions or need a ride match, please contact Chris Costello at (774) 573-7064.
Bonita Springs Concert Band April 13
AUBREY ROGERS HIGH SCHOOL, 2 P.M., GUEST VOCALISTS: CAROLANN AND GERRITT VANDERMEER
The Bonita Springs Concert Band will present its final concert of the season Sunday, April 13 at 2 p.m. at Aubrey Rogers High School in North Naples. The band’s very special guest vocalists will be Carolann Sanita-VanderMeer and Gerritt VanderMeer.
MORNING STRETCH
MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY –
8 TO 8:30 A.M. AND 8:30 TO 9 A.M.
Carolann will sing George Gershwin’s “Don’t Rain on My Parade” and “Velvet Wave.” Gerritt will sing “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning.”
Carolann is a professional singer, actress and vocal technician/coach. She has been seen all over the United States as Marian in the first national tour of The Music Man and internationally as Maria in the European and Asian tours of West Side Story . Favorite credits include High Society (Tracy Lord) at TheatreZone, Les Miserables (Cosette) at Flat Rock Playhouse, Beauty and the Beast (Belle) at Artpark, Sweeney Todd (Johanna) and
There are two, half-hour stretch segments. It’s an excellent way to work all the different parts of the body while improving your balance, coordination and strength. It uses your own resistance as we strive for total body toning and fitness. Each class is a cross between tai chi, yoga and Pilates. This is a great class to achieve a full stretch.
You can come to one session or both, depending on what works for you. Come and join us!
For any questions call: Linda Masters, (740) 361-4088.
West Side Story (Maria) at Sacramento Music Circus. Carolann is an adjunct voice professor at Florida Gulf Coast University and currently splits her time between NYC and SWFL.
Gerritt VanderMeer brings more than twenty years of professional experience as an actor in independent and feature film, television, commercials, voice-overs and classical, contemporary and musical theatre to his work in the classroom. He has appeared onstage throughout the United States and abroad.
Members of the band are under the direction of Gary Smith who retired after 24 years as conductor of the University of Illinois Marching Illini Band and Symphonic Band. Gary says, “The talent of these musicians is tremendous, ranging in age from 16 to 90.”
Become a “Friend of the Band.” Find out more at www. bonitaspringsconcertband.org . The concert will also be replayed later in the week on Facebook at bonitaspringsconcertband .
Bring your family and friends with a lawn chair April 13 at 2 p.m. at Aubrey Rogers High School in North Naples.
Pinochle Players
Needed!
Pinochle players are needed to play at the clubhouse! Ladies and gentlemen included. We will teach you how to play! Please call Hellen Ruocco at (239) 992-0616.
Consumer Alerts
BCP STAFF, FTC
DID SOMEONE USE YOUR SSN TO FILE TAXES? HERE’S WHAT TO DO
If you’re filing your taxes online this year, watch for signs of tax identity theft, like someone using your Social Security number (SSN) to file and claim a tax refund. One way you’ll know is if the IRS rejects your tax return once you file. Learn to protect yourself while filing online and what to do if someone steals your tax refund.
If you use tax preparation software like TurboTax, H&R Block, TaxAct, or TaxSlayer, protect your accounts by using two-factor authentication. Requiring two or more credentials to log in makes it harder for scammers to get into your account, even if they get your username and password. And always file early, if you can — before anyone else files using your personal information.
But even if you’re careful, someone might still use your SSN to steal your refund. Now, if the IRS rejects the tax return you submitted online or through a tax preparer, it could just mean missing or incorrect information. But if the IRS says there’s more than one tax return filed in your name or they see income from an employer you know you don’t work for, that’s identity theft. Don’t panic — but do act quickly to communicate with the IRS. Here’s how:
1. Report it to IdentityTheft.gov using as many details as possible. The site will create an FTC Identity Theft Report, an IRS Identity Theft Affidavit, and a personal recovery plan.
2. Submit your IRS Identity Theft Affidavit through IdentityTheft.gov. This tells the IRS to begin investigating your case. Or get the Identity Theft Affidavit (IRS Form 14039) and submit it by mail.
3. Follow the steps in your personal recovery plan — like freezing your credit and checking your credit reports — to limit the damage identity theft causes.
Share IdentityTheft.gov/Steps with friends and loved ones to help them protect their personal information and stay ahead of identity thieves.
Bonita Springs – Estero Christian Women’s Connection
INVITES YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS TO ATTEND OUR MAY LUNCHEON!
Friday, May 9, 2025
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The Club at Grandezza, 11481 Grande Oak Blvd, Estero, FL 33928
Luncheon cost: $35 inclusive
Reservations & Cancellations must be received by Wednesday, April 30, 2025
Tables assigned for all guests. To be seated with friends, submit all names & checks together, plus contact name & phone number and any food allergies.
Make checks payable to BSECWC & mail to:
BSECWC, 20071 Seagrove St. #1003, Estero, FL 33928
Call Nancy with questions at (520) 904-2913. Checks must be received by the deadline.
Special Feature
“A Traditional Tea Party in Honor of all the Mothers in our Lives”
Bring your favorite tea cup! Add to the festivities by wearing a hat if you wish! Revisit the grace and tradition of a bygone era with delightful tea and conversation! Guest Speaker
Bonnie Ware will share an unusual story you’re sure to enjoy …
The Fish, the Anchor, and the Lifesaver
Stonecroft Bible Study
Form new and meaningful relationships in an informal small group to study how the Bible applies to real life.
Call Sharon at (239) 410-9945 for information and location
Prayer And Fellowship Connection
Join us from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., the first Wednesday of each month for fellowship, a short topical lesson, and prayer.
Lunch often follows!
Call Nancy at (908) 581-5623 for location
Facebook: facebook.com/BSECWC
Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries Website: cwcflorida.org
RESOURCE HUB
STONEYBROOK OF ESTERO
STONEYBROOK MASTER ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President:
Denis Oldani
Vice President:
Melissa Mahmoud
Secretary:
Daniel “Todd” Madden
Treasurer:
John Detterbeck
Directors:
Darrell Grigg
Matthew Reed
Elizabeth Hanson
The Board of Directors meets on the third Tuesday of the month in the Community Center. Meetings are open to all community members. Residents may address the Board during Residents’ Open Forum which begins at 6:30 p.m. At the end of the Residents’ Forum the general meeting begins.
Front Gate
STONEYBROOK COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DISTRICT (CDD) BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Eileen Huff - Chairperson
Chris Brady - Vice Chairperson
Phil Olive - Assistant Secretary
Phil Simonsen - Assistant Secretary
Adam Dalton - Assistant Secretary
The Board of Supervisors meets at 9 a.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month in the Community Center. Exceptions are: November and December held on the second Tuesday because of holidays, and February, May, June and August held at 6 p.m. Meetings are open to all community members. Agendas, minutes and other information can be found on the CDD website: www.stoneybrookesterocdd.com.
STONEYBROOK – A GOLF COMMUNITY
949-4965
DwellingLIVE Guest Registration(888) 994-4117
Community Center 948-1787
Community Center Fax 948-1786
Pro Shop 948-3933
Golf Course Superintendent 948-9057
Main Line Irrigation Problems – during normal golfing hours
948-9057
Alliant Property Management LLC 454-1101
Alliant Property Management Fax 454-1147
Lennar (formerly US Home) 278-1177
Lee County Sheriff’s Office 477-1200
Poison Control (800) 222-1222
Alligator Hotline (866) 392-4286
Animal Control 432-2083
Mosquito Control 694-2174
Comcast 432-9277
Florida Power & Light
334-7754
Lee County Utilities 936-0247
– to report “Lift Station” alarm 479-8700
Sunshine Before You Dig (800) 432-4770 (Underground Cable Locating Service)
Waste Services of Florida 332-8500
Free Residential Appliance Pickup 337-0800
– please do not dispose in community Dumpsters
MASTER BOARD
Contact us on the Home page on the Website: www.stoneybrookestero.org
ALLIANT PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LLC
Emergency (24-hour) Number: (239) 454-1101
www.alliantproperty.com
13831 Vector Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33907
COMMUNITY CENTER
E-mail: stoneybrook.office@alliantproperty.com