Stoneybrook Happenings
Greetings neighbors,
First and foremost, the Board of Directors would like to wish you all a happy holiday season however you celebrate. We also wish you a healthy and prosperous new year.
As of the writing of this, the Miromar wall is being repaired, yeah! The board is still working on a mini remodel of the clubhouse. The library will soon be accessible by key fob most of the day and evening every day of the week. Look for hours posted at the clubhouse when completed. The pickleball courts are in the process of being refurbished. We will soon have an updated ARC Guidelines manual and it will be e-blasted to you when completed. We have reached an agreement with Alliant Property Management for their services for the next three years.
Enjoy the great south Florida weather and be safe. Denis Oldani, President Master HOA
Annual Turkey Trot
This event is my favorite event out of them all! We started a couple years ago and barely had 75 people. Fast forward a few years later and we were at an outstanding number of 273 people! I love that so many families come to this event. People of all ages, no matter if you walk or run, it’s about spending time together, getting out in the fresh air and just having fun. Congratulations to all of the prize winners, and thank you
Annual Turkey Trot from page 1
to all the volunteers, and to Stanley our security captain, and Iris with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for keeping everyone safe during this event. Also thank you to River of Life Church for the bottled water donations. See you next year!
Stoneybrook Master Association Board Of Directors
Directors: Darrell Grigg, Kelly Moretti
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.
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
Front Gate 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
Daniel “Todd” Madden, Secretary John Detterbeck, Treasurer
Denis Oldani, President Melissa Mahmoud, Vice President
November Coffee, Tea And Chat
We are so glad our seasonal friends/neighbors are back and joined us this month. It’s great to catch up with everyone and it was nice to sit and chat before the Thanksgiving holiday. Don’t forget to join us next month!
TLP Tidbit$
By Thomas L. Patricca, CFP®, CEPS
’Tis the season to be jolly, and let’s face it, nothing says holiday spirit like giving the gift of financial responsibility to the little tykes in your life. Move over, sugar cookies –this Christmas or Hanukkah, consider decking the halls with the joy of savings bonds, 529 contributions, or even a Roth IRA for your pint-sized loved ones. It’s time to ho-ho-hold on to your wallets, folks, because we’re about to “sleigh” the gift game this year!
Picture this: The kids, all bundled up in festive sweaters, tearing through wrapping paper like a tornado of joy. But wait, what’s this? It’s not another toy that makes noise! Instead, it’s a savings bond, the unsung hero of holiday gifts. Forget about sugar plums; these bonds will have them dreaming of future fortunes while they sleep. It’s like giving them a backstage pass to the financial concert of their dreams, and trust me, compound interest is the headliner you won’t want to miss!
Now, let’s talk 529 contributions – the VIP pass to the dazzling world of education. Move over, ABCs; it’s time for one, two, threes and dollar signs! Wrap up a brighter future by investing in their education. It’s like giving them a front-row seat to the School of Life, and the best part? No student loans! Imagine the little ones strolling down the ivory tower of financial security with the grace of a sugarplum fairy, thanks to your thoughtful 529 contribution. But wait, there’s more! Introducing the Roth IRA –Individual Retirement Account. Forget about the toys that will be forgotten by January; an IRA is the gift that keeps on giving long after the holiday decorations have been packed away. Opening an IRA for the kiddos is like planting a money tree and watching it grow with every passing year.
Tips From The Pro
Practice ALL Your Shots
By Chase Marinell, Lead Instructor for The Andy Scott School of Golf, The Executive Director of the SWFJGA
It amazes me how many people who are trying to improve their golf games, will not get off the driving range to practice his/her short games.
During my time as a full-time instructor, I am on the Stoneybrook Golf Club driving range giving lessons most of the day. During my lessons, I am very aware of what is going on around me when it comes to people’s practice habits. I am always watching as I love observing the practice facility as a whole to see how golfers are going about getting better at this crazy game called golf. This is how I know so well what people are doing to improve their golf games. On a daily basis, I will see a lot of familiar faces go straight to the range, hit balls for an hour and a half, then
Book Club
R.C. Smith
By the time they retire, they’ll be sipping cocoa on a beach somewhere, all thanks to your savvy financial foresight.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Isn’t Santa supposed to be in charge of all this gift-giving stuff?” Well, consider this your backstage pass to Santa’s financial workshop. He’s outsourcing this year, and you’re the financial elf in charge! So, dust off that calculator, grab a cup of cocoa, and let’s “sleigh” this holiday season with the power of compound interest, education funds, and retirement savings.
But why stop there? Let’s add a sprinkle of holiday magic to the mix. Imagine the kids’ faces as they unwrap these financial gems. “What’s this, Grandma? A savings bond? Does it come with a cape?” Oh, you bet it does! It’s the superhero of financial gifts, here to save the day and secure their future.
And when they open that 529 contribution envelope, it’s not just a piece of paper; it’s a golden ticket to a world of knowledge and opportunity. “Grandpa, does this mean I get to be an astronaut and a dinosaur trainer?” Absolutely, kiddo! With education on your side, the sky’s the limit. And don’t even get me started on the IRA – retirement planning never looked so cool.
So, whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or the Festival of Compound Interest, let’s make this holiday season one for the financial record books. Of course, working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM will help you determine how best to give the gift of financial literacy and watch as the little ones unwrap a future full of opportunities. Who needs a sleigh when you’ve got a CFP® helping you choose the perfect savvy savings plans? So, deck the halls with dollars and become the financial wizard of the holiday season!
call it a day and head to the car. While the full swing is very important, the short game is just as important when it comes to shaving off strokes to your score. This is when I wish the masses would pay more attention to their short games.
It seems to me people find full swing practice more enjoyable. Yes, I would agree that hitting a long drive in front of your friends is an incredible feeling, but so is getting to your lowest handicap you have ever had. There is nothing better than hitting the perfect 8-iron draw to a back left pin, but so is saving par after having a near impossible up and down. Short game is key to shooting lower scores!
My rule of thumb is always to format your practice sessions to where you are working on your putting and chipping just as much as your full swing.
If you’re interested in lessons, please contact me at chasemarinell@yahoo.com or call (239) 848-2021.
On Thursday, Nov. 16, the residents of Stoneybrook were treated to a comedy night. The opening act was Johnny Mac (on the right). He was very funny in his 30 minutes on stage. Then he introduced the highlighter of the evening, R. C. Smith. He has performed here before and was back by popular demand.
Everyone truly enjoyed his sense of humor as he “plays” off the audience.
If you want to see him again, he is at Cape Cabaret in Cape Coral on some Friday nights.
Information As Of Oct. 31, 2023
Bingo Nights
Bingo Is Back! Get Your Daubers Ready For Another Great Season
Reminder: Please email Jewel if you are attending so we can distance the tables. If we do not get 10 people, bingo will be cancelled.
Upcoming date is Dec. 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Stoneybrook clubhouse. Please bring your masks (optional). Stay safe and take care of yourselves.
The Midnight Library By Matt Haig
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. Our book club meets the third Monday of every month from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Stoneybrook library. Please email Jewel at scf0519@comcast.net so we will know how many to expect. See you on Monday!
Dec. 18 The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Jan. 15, 2024 The Accidental Empress by Allison Pataki
What if you had the chance to live out every version of your life that was ever possible? Would you still be wishing that you could have done things differently? Or would you be grateful for the direction you’ve taken in your current life?
In the fictional story The Midnight Library (2020), Nora Seed, a woman in her mid-30s experiences all the alternate paths that she had left behind in favor of others. What if she had given up swimming? Would she have liked her life better as a professional swimmer? What if she had been a glaciologist instead of a student of philosophy? What if she had stayed with her ex-fiancé?
After experiencing what could have been, Nora realized one simple truth: The only life she could ever be satisfied with living was hers, and all the choices she once classified as regrets were blessings in disguise.
The cost will be $10 for three cards per game. We play 10 double games. Daubers are available for purchase. BYOB and snacks. This is for ages 18-plus only (Florida state law). Jewel Faerber and the Activities Committee, jcf0519@comcast.net
Jewel Faerber, Activities Committee
Monthly Motivation
Going The Extra Mile
By Joshua A. Sky, Executive Coach and Leadership Trainer
Do for others! Pay it forward! December is holiday time that often brings out a little bit more generosity and fellowship with those around us; it’s in the air. Practicing this all-year round could encourage support and loyalty in friends, colleagues, and customers alike.
It’s about giving people more than they expect. Most will notice, and better yet, most will appreciate. Whether you are spiritual or a scientist, you will understand that it’s about expending positive energy. What comes of this I leave to your interpretation.
It lets people know that you are not taking them for granted and that you appreciate them; you value them and who doesn’t want to be valued on some level? The reward for making others feel special is that you will also feel special and in time, others will go the extra mile for you.
Start today and make a difference in other people’s lives. Just a few if you’d like. Impacting at least one other person each day means that someone else’s day becomes brighter. Get your sunglasses out, your days are about to become sunnier too.
Happy holidays! Wishing all of you a happy, healthy and prosperous new year! We’ll see you in 2024.
“Gratitude can transform common days in thanksgivings, turn routine jobs in joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” – William Arthur Ward
Water Aerobics Class Time Change
Starting in December, water aerobics classes will be held Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m.
Thank you, Camille LeFevre
Morning Stretch
Monday, Wednesday And Friday – 8 To 8:30 a.m. And 8:30 To 9 a.m.
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.
Stoneybrook Ladies’ Luncheons
The following Stoneybrook Ladies’ Luncheons have been scheduled:
Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 12 p.m.
Holiday Luncheon – Hyatt Regency Resort, Bonita Springs
We will again be collecting donations for the Naples Shelter for Abused Women and Children. Suggested items include personal items and children’s toys.
Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024 at 11:30 a.m.
Bonefish Grill, 26381 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs
Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 11:30 a.m.
Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant, 14301 Port Comfort Road, Fort Myers (Just before Sanibel Causeway, next to Port Sanibel Marina)
You may sign up for all luncheons at the Community Center or call to have your name placed on the list. Carpooling is encouraged. If you have any questions or need a ride match please contact Chris Costello, (239) 3014510, chrispea46@hotmail.com or Helen Ruocco, (239) 992-0616, paradise11@comcast.net. See you there!
Children’s Section In Library Improved
The children’s section in the library was looking a little rough, so with some help in donations from many families we added many more books to our shelves, blocks, and some stuffed animals. We decorated by giving the kids a little table to be able to color or draw at and a rug so they can sit or lay down and read if they choose.
Many parents now can come into the library for themselves, and their little ones can keep busy so they can take
time to look or read books as well. It has been so nice to see more kids in the library now and using this space! I’ve seen little ones come in and color and eat their lunch, kids after school come in and do their homework, it’s great! If there’s anything you’d like to donate for this space, we still need stuffed animals, board games, coloring books and crayons.
Thank you, Stephanie Crockett
Update On The Golf Course
By Eileen Huff, CDD Board Chairperson
For the month of September 2023, the actual rounds of golf were 2,998 to a budget of 1,671. For the fiscal year the budgeted rounds of golf were 45,434 the actual rounds played were 53,098, which is 7,664 over budgeted rounds. For the month of October, the rounds of golf were 4,501 to a budget of 3,467. The course continues to be above the budgeted rounds of golf and revenues for the year. The course had a great month and a great year. Thanks should go to Jeff Nixon, golf pro and John Vuknic, course superintendent and their staffs.
For the month ending Sept. 30, total revenues were $127,999 which is $34,928 more than 2022 and $57,685 over 2023 budget. Year-to-date revenue is $3,706,923 which is $409,317 over 2022 budget, and $559,983 over 2023 budget. The expenses for the month ending Sept. 30 were $476,163 which is $185,253 more than 2022 and $246,408 over 2023 budget. Year-to-date expenses are $3,451,625 which is $592,922 over 2022 and $576,880 over 2023 budget. The net position as of Sept. 30 is $8,207 under budget. Cash balance as of Oct. 20 was $279,074.
The CDD and the HOA have written and will be reviewed and approved a policy for removing trees on your property and on CDD property. This has been finalized. It will be available at the Community Center, and it will be posted on the CDD website. In the meantime, please make sure you work with the HOA, ARC and complete necessary forms for any and all tree removal.
Meetings with the Village, the landscape companies and Johnson Engineering have been taking place regarding the relandscaping along Corkscrew Road. Once these have been in a more complete format, they will be presented at the CDD meeting. The main consensus is that we will build the berm up a few feet and add trees and shrubs according to the guidelines from the Village. Adding seawalls to the lake and/or adding a wall or fence will not be in the plans.
The bridges on the golf course are being repaired. New
flowers have been planted. Carter Fence has done a review of all the fencing around the community. The fencing project will be reviewed at the December CDD meeting. The plans will determine what needs to be replaced and of course the cost will be a big factor as to how this is approved and/or completed. Regarding landscaping throughout the community, we have been working with the Village and Johnson Engineering Landscape Architects and our tree trimming company. One of the major items that was brought to our attention was over pruning of palm trees. The palms should be pruned of dead and brown fonds only. The green healthy fronds do add nutrition to trees. Also, pruning palms in preparation for hurricane winds actually causes more damage to the tree. It weakens the tree removing healthy green fronds and therefore puts the tree in greater risk of being impacted by the hurricane winds. This may be why we have lost so many palm trees during prior storms. Removing the dead fronds and the flowering stalks will not harm the tree. Many of the palms in our community are “self-pruning” trees. We should let nature take care of itself. There is also a concern that palm rats will reside in the trees. Yes, they do, but this is not a major problem and trees should not be trimmed with this thought in place. There are copies of tree trimming information at the Community Center for your review.
In the future the CDD tree pruning company will be working along these guidelines so as to not damage the palms within the community.
If you are interested in lessons or joining one of the women’s or men’s Stoneybrook Golf Leagues, please contact the Pro Shop at (239) 948-3933.
If you have any questions regarding these issues or any concerns, please email the CDD at cdd@stoneybrookesterocdd. com, or attend the CDD meetings.
The December CDD meeting will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 12 at 9 a.m. at the Stoneybrook Community Center. This is earlier than usual due to the Christmas holiday.
