Stoneybrook Estero
Production
Stoneybrook Happenings
DENIS OLDANI, HOA PRESIDENT
Greetings Neighbors
As the days get cooler and the palm trees twinkle, the Board wishes everyone a very Happy Holidays and a Joyous New Year! We hope you enjoy this wonderful season in Southwest Florida.
Be sure to drive through the community to see our neighborhood’s impressive light displays. Next, plan
for the end of the year by checking the local listings below for New Year’s Eve Celebrations, which include family-friendly events and special restaurant menus to ring in 2026. This is the prime time for local markets, so remind yourself of the current schedule for Farmer’s Markets and Festivals where you can find fresh produce and artisan goods.
HOA Dues are Due January 1! Please ensure your quarterly homeowners association
dues are submitted by January 1, 2026, to avoid late fees. You can find payment instructions on the community portal at www.stoneybrookestero.org or use the coupon book that was mailed in November.
Please note the revised holiday schedule for Waste & Recycling Reminders. Trash and recycling pickup will be delayed by one day the weeks of Christmas (Dec 2226) and New Year’s (Dec 29-Jan 2). Please properly dispose of wrapping paper and
drop off Christmas trees at the designated site starting January 4. A warm welcome is extended to our seasonal residents; please be mindful of increased vehicle, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic within the community.
For those enjoying the Gulf, please remember Beach Safety. With the influx of visitors, please be extra cautious, observe beach flag warnings, and remember that shelling is best done at low tide.
Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach
EVENT LOCATION DETAILS
Downtown Countdown
NYE Celebration Fort Myers River District (First and Hendry)
New Year’s Eve at Beacon Social Drinkery Luminary Hotel & Co., Fort Myers
New Year’s Eve Rooftop Bash Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers
The city’s largest street party with free admission! Features live music on multiple stages, a ball drop at midnight, and a fireworks show. Food trucks and vendors are open throughout the night.
A high-end Glow Party & Fireworks Viewing on the 12th-floor rooftop. Reservations include a bottle of Mionetto Prosecco, glow swag, and front-row seats to the midnight fireworks.
A sophisticated celebration at Sidney’s Rooftop Sculpture Garden. Expect heavy hors d’oeuvres, an open call bar, live music, dancing, and amazing panoramic views of the downtown fireworks. Cocktail attire is typically required.
Fort Myers Beach NYE Celebration & Fireworks Times Square Area, Fort Myers Beach
New Year’s Eve at Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach Margaritaville Beach Resort, Fort Myers Beach
NYE Comedy Show Snappers Comedy Club, Fort Myers
Naples & Estero
Larry Johnson’s Essence of Motown New Year’s Eve Party Estero (near Naples)
New Year’s Eve Parties Blue Martini Lounge, Naples
Stay Safe!
The beach is the place to be for a classic Florida New Year’s. Enjoy eating and drinking at local restaurants, free live music in Bayside Park, and a fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico after the ball drop at midnight. Extended trolley and tram services are usually available.
Celebrate with lively music from local bands, cocktails, island-inspired food, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Gulf, visible from the beach or the Sunset Terrace.
An option for a night of laughs, featuring stand-up performances.
Celebrate with a taste of Detroit’s classic sound, featuring a live performance of Motown hits, a four-course dinner, and a midnight breakfast.
Expect a lively New Year’s Eve party at this upscale lounge location.
Stoneybrook Ladies’ Luncheons
The following Ladies’ Luncheons have been scheduled.
Tuesday, December 9
11:30 a.m.
Holiday Luncheon
Brio Italian Grille
5595 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 11 (Waterside Shoppes) Naples
Tuesday, January 13
11:30 a.m.
new Miller’s Ale House Coconut Point, Estero
On December 9, we will again be collecting donations for the Immokalee/Naples Shelter for abused Women and Children. Suggested items include, personal items, toys, etc. Best to place items in gift bags so they can be identified for the correct recipients, but they can still experience the magic of opening a gift.
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, chrispea46@hotmail.com or Kathy Tracy at ckt367@gmail.com .
Stoneybrook November Ladies’ Luncheon
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
UPCOMING DATE IS:
December 11
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)
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.
WISHING YOU HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration for many faiths. From November 1 to January 15, there are approximately 29 holidays observed by seven of the world’s major religions. With such rich diversity, how can we be inclusive in our holiday greetings?
I choose to wish people “Happy Holidays” because I believe no one religion or observance is more important than others. I want my words to resonate positively with as many people as possible.
The phrase “Happy Holidays” may seem generic to some, but to me it conveys a message of acceptance. It says I recognize and respect traditions outside of my own.
Monthly Motivation
JOSHUA A. SKY, CAREER COACH AND LEADERSHIP TRAINER
Of course, if I know how someone celebrates, I’m happy to wish them well in a more specific way. But when in doubt, “Happy Holidays” embraces and honors the beautiful mosaic of winter traditions.
Here are a few questions to ponder: How do you prefer to be greeted this season? What impact do you hope your words have on others?
This year, I challenge all of us to spread inclusive holiday cheer. Let’s make the season bright for people of all faiths. The more we understand each other, the stronger our communities become. How will you share holiday warmth with people outside your own tradition?
“The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on our blessings and seek out ways to make life better for those around us.” – Terri Marshall
TLP Tidbit$
THOMAS L. PATRICCA, CFP ® , CEPS, AEP ®
WEALTH IS WHAT YOU DON’T SEE
If Hollywood ever produced a film called Actual Wealth , no one would watch it. Instead of sweeping drone shots over mansions and yachts, you’d get two quiet hours of someone calmly contributing to their 401(k) and driving a car with 187,000 miles on it. Critics would protest: “Beautiful story arc, but shockingly little Italian marble.”
That’s because we’ve all been trained to believe wealth is something you can see —the grand house, the shiny vehicle, the jewelry that comes with its own insurance policy. But in the real world, wealth is mostly … invisible. Sneaky, even. It hides in retirement accounts, brokerage statements, cash reserves, and the quiet self-control of saying, “No thanks, I don’t actually need the upgraded version of this toaster.”
Morgan Housel puts it perfectly: “Wealth is what you don’t see. It’s the cars not purchased. The diamonds not bought. The upgrades declined.”
It’s the money quietly compounding while you’re out enjoying your life instead of polishing a boat you regret buying.
Most of us grew up believing wealth was the stuff people bought to prove they were wealthy—the vacation home, the luxury car, the boat with a pun for a name. We assumed people worked hard so they could buy these things. Stuff = fun = success. Seemed reasonable at the time.
But here’s the twist: the very things we associate with wealth often pull people further away from it. That shiny new car feels amazing … until depreciation arrives with all the enthusiasm of a wet sock.
Real wealth—the kind that buys freedom and opportunity—looks very different. It’s:
• Maxed-out contributions to a 401(k), IRA, and HSA.
• Replacing the timing belt instead of the entire car.
• Saying no to lifestyle creep and yes to compounding.
• The index fund paying dividends while you’re in the yard throwing a baseball with your kid.
• Rental property that earns money while you’re visiting Aunt Ada in Boise.
• The modest house and the decadeold cars your neighbors misinterpret as financial struggle—when in reality, they’re signs of quiet mastery.
Some of the wealthiest people you’ll ever meet look incredibly ordinary. That elderly couple two doors down with the simple ranch house and matching wellworn Toyotas? They might be the real millionaires. They just never felt the need to purchase the “look” of wealth. No crushing debt. No pressure to impress. More freedom. More peace. More options.
They were free to choose careers they enjoyed, free to travel without the burden of maintaining a second home, free to help their kids and grandkids, and free to spend time instead of money.
Most people don’t grasp this truth until life teaches them—usually right around the time the first “grown-up” bills arrive. But imagine if this mindset clicked earlier. Imagine decades of compounding quietly working in the background. Imagine teaching the next generation that money is a tool—not a trophy.
Wealth doesn’t shout. It whispers. It hums. It compounds quietly while life unfolds.
A Smart Next Step
And if reading this sparked even a small realization—or a desire to make sure
your invisible wealth is growing in the right direction—this is exactly where working with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ® professional comes in. A CFP ® professional can help you build the systems, strategies, and discipline that create the kind of wealth you don’t have to show off … because it’s working for you behind the scenes. If your goal is financial freedom, stability, or simply the peace of knowing your money is aligned with your values, partnering with a CFP ® is one of the most powerful steps you can take.
Stoneybrook Book Club
JEWEL FAERBER
The Book Club meets on Dec. 15. from 11 a.m. to noon in the community center.
The book is The Storm We Made by Vanessa Chan.
Anyone can join our Book Club. At our last meeting, we had three new members.
Feel free to join us.
SEEKING MAH-JONGG AND PINOCHLE PLAYERS!
Hellen will teach mah-jongg. Anthony will teach pinochle. If interested, please call Hellen at (239) 247-0756 or Anthony at (239) 247-0736.
FGCU ENTREPRENEURIAL SCHOOL, GULFSHORE OPERA AND BOWER SCHOOL OF MUSIC & THE ARTS FEATURED AT ENGAGE ESTERO COMMUNITY MEETING JANUARY 29, 2026
Engage Estero’s January Community & Member Meeting features presenters on how FGCU’s entrepreneurial school benefits greater Estero, and how our cultural experiences are enriched by Gulfshore Opera and FGCU’s Bower School of Music & The Arts.
The meeting, which is free and open to the public, will be held at the Estero Recreation Center on Thursday, January 29, at 10 a.m. The address is 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., located inside Estero Community Park & Recreation Center, Estero, FL 33928.
Dr. Bill McDowell, Dean, FGCU’s Daveler and Kauanui School of Entrepreneurship and Mark Ain
Endowed Chair of Entrepreneurship will share how the school benefits our community and economy.
DR. BILL MCDOWELL, FGCU
Steffanie Pearce, Founder and General Director, Gulfshore Opera will introduce its goals and the exciting upcoming season of performances.
Victoria (Tori) Kane, Community Engagement Coordinator, FGCU’s Bower School of Music & the Arts will share the school’s goals and the broad range of arts available to our community from their students.
Most residents are excited that they chose this area to live and work in. But we also need to ensure that we keep providing new opportunities and support for everyone trying to improve what is available.
Several plans and proposals are being considered for the future development of Greater Estero. There is a need for the Village, local businesses, and the public
STEFFANIE PEARCE, GULFSHORE OPERA
TORI KANE, FGCU��
to support new business ideas that would have a positive commercial impact and prevent skilled workers from leaving our area!
Discussions are ongoing about establishing a Community Theatre Complex in Estero. However, this is unlikely to happen without support for the many existing musical genres that need backing.
Please come and listen to these dedicated individuals who are thinking of our future.
Seating is limited, so reservations are required for all attendees. Visit https:// esterotoday.com/jan2026 to RSVP.
The meeting will be recorded and posted to our YouTube channel @EngageEstero, so subscribe to be notified if you cannot make it.
FINAL RESULTS ON TRAFFIC STUDY, UPDATES ON SEPTIC TO SEWER AND ESTERO RIVER PARK – DEC. 11 AT THE ESTERO RECREATION CENTER AT 10 A.M.
At this meeting, we will have several important updates from Village Management.
The Meeting Agenda
1. Final Results of the Village of Estero’s 2024 Traffic Study
2. Update of the Septic to Sewer Program.
3. Update of the Estero River Park Development.
https://esterotoday.com/dec2025/
THE 2025 DON ESLICK ESTERO PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
DR. LARRY ANTONUCCI, LEE HEALTH
A special dinner honoring Dr. Antonucci will be held at the Estero Country Club at the Vines on the evening of February 26, 2026. Join us for a memorable evening of recognition and community spirit. To see more details and to register for the event click on this website: https://esterotoday.com/2026award/
Celebrate excellence in the Estero community as Engage Estero presents the prestigious Don Eslick Estero Person of the Year Award. This annual event pays tribute to Don Eslick’s remarkable qualities and outstanding service to Estero. This year’s recipient is Dr. Larry Antonucci, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Lee Health.
Since 2017, Dr. Antonucci has led the Lee Health team in implementing numerous improvements to healthcare services in the greater Estero Area and Southwest Florida. These enhancements encompass Lee Health Coconut Point, the University Highlands facility, Bonita Health Center, and SWFL Proton Center. Beyond facilities and equipment, these improvements include additional services and staff to enhance the quality of healthcare provided to our residents. Furthermore, Lee Health remains committed to planning future improvements in the greater Estero area as our community continues to expand.
In thanking Engage Estero’s President, Allan Bowditch, for the award, Dr. Antonucci said, “The mission of Lee Health is to be a ‘trusted partner,’ and our relationship with Estero is proof that we continue to invest to keep Estero a great place to live, work, play, and retire. As citizens of Estero ourselves, we remain committed to growing with the community.”
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PROTON CENTER OPENS IN ESTERO, LEGAL CHANGES FOR HOAS AND EAST CORKSCREW ROAD UPDATES COVERED IN RECENT COMMUNITY MEETING – SEE THE VIDEO AND SUMMARY
Dr. Shannon MacDonald, Medical Director at Southwest Florida Proton shared her knowledge and insights on the latest cancer research and new treatment options at the October 28 Engage Estero Community Meeting. This center is opening in December in Estero. You can see the
video, summary and slides by clicking on this link: https://esterotoday.com/ oct2025/
Also, at the meeting and on this video, Andy Provost, General Counsel and Overseer of Operational Aspects of Resort Management, provided homeowners and property managers with essential information about the legal changes that impact HOAs and Condominiums in Southwest Florida.
Mark Novitski is a consultant for Engage Estero and a member of the East Corkscrew Alliance. Mark spoke about matters related to East Corkscrew, including the latest road development news, mining and trucking traffic and safety issues regarding children attending local schools.
At Engage Estero, we believe in the strength of the community. As a nonpartisan, nonpolitical nonprofit, we utilize evidence-based research to provide impartial facts and information about community issues that can improve your quality of life.
“Be Informed, Get Engaged, and Make an Impact!”
Trunk or Treat
Thank you to everyone who came out and made the trunk or treat a huge success. Thank you, Jack Mancini, for sponsoring another great event!
Art That Brings Us Together
CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF CREATIVITY, CONNECTION, AND COMMUNITY
Each February, the Fort Myers River District transforms into a vibrant open-air gallery filled with color, creativity, and connection. For 26 years, ArtFest Fort Myers has brought our community together to celebrate the power of the arts and this year’s festival, happening February 6 to 8, 2026, promises to be one of the most inspiring yet.
What began as a small community event has blossomed into Southwest Florida’s premier fine art festival, drawing thousands of art lovers and featuring more than 200 professional artists from across the country. But beyond the paintings, sculptures, and jewelry that fill the streets, ArtFest has always been about something much deeper: the people who make it happen and the community that calls it home.
“ArtFest isn’t just an event, it’s a shared experience,” says Juan Santiago, executive director of ArtFest Fort Myers. “Every year, we see families who have been coming for decades, volunteers who help us bring the festival to life, and young students who
discover their own creativity through our artin-education programs. It’s a reflection of what makes Fort Myers such a special place.”
That sense of belonging is what makes ArtFest more than a weekend festival. Through programs like Chalk Block, where high school students transform the pavement into a colorful masterpiece, and Art Under 20, which showcases the talent of emerging artists, ArtFest Fort Myers continues to invest in the next generation of creators. The festival’s commitment to community extends throughout the year, supporting arts education and offering opportunities for engagement that last long after the tents come down.
Visitors can also look forward to the Opening Night VIP Party—a lively Friday evening celebration overlooking the river, filled with live music, great food, and a first look at the artists’ work. The weekend continues with two full days of art-filled experiences, from live
entertainment and interactive art to familyfriendly fun and local food favorites.
“ArtFest is where creativity meets community,” Santiago adds. “It’s where neighbors reconnect, visitors fall in love with Fort Myers, and artists feel truly celebrated. We invite everyone to be part of it—whether you come to volunteer, collect new art, or simply spend the day surrounded by inspiration.”
So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience ArtFest Fort Myers, February 6 to 8, 2026, along the beautiful downtown riverfront. Come see why, after 26 years, this community tradition still reminds us that art doesn’t just decorate life—it brings us together.
For more information, to become a volunteer, or to plan your visit, visit ArtFestFortMyers.com or follow @ArtFestFortMyers on social media.
Bonita Springs Concert Band
DECEMBER 14, RIVERSIDE PARK, 5:45 P.M.
GUEST VOCALIST: MARK SANDERS
The Bonita Springs Concert Band will present its annual Christmas concert under the beautifully decorated lights Sunday, December 14 at 5:45 p.m. at Riverside Park in Old Bonita. The band’s very special guest vocalist will be Mark Sanders. Mark will sing Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas and Fly Me to the Moon .
Mark Sanders grew up in Marion, Ill., spent 15 years in New York City and now calls Fort Myers his home. He has appeared in theatrical productions and concerts around the world. Mark was seen as Perchik on the Broadway National Tour
of Fiddler on the Roof starring the great Theodore Bikel. He has become a favorite soloist with the Gulf Coast Symphony, performing at the Barbara B. Mann PAC in Fort Myers as well as the Naples and Bonita Springs Concert Bands.
The band will play some seasonal favorites including Let the Bells Ring , A Most Wonderful Christmas , and Not So Silent Night .
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 December 14 at 5:45 p.m. at Riverside Park.
Bonita Springs – Estero Christian Women’s Connection
INVITES YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS TO ATTEND OUR MONTHLY LUNCHEON!
Friday, January 9, 2026 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The Club at Grandezza, 11481 Grande Oak Blvd., Estero, FL (Seating begins at 11 a.m.)
Luncheon cost: $37 per person, inclusive
*Reservations and Cancellations must be received by Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Sorry, reservations after the deadline cannot be accepted.
*Tables will be assigned for all guests. To be seated with friends, submit all names and checks together, plus contact name, phone number, any food allergies and protein dislikes. With Christmas mail delays, reserve early!
*Mail checks payable to BSECWC: 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
Lee County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Specialist Heather Turco will instruct us about situational awareness and self-defense as we learn ways to protect ourselves in potentially dangerous situations.
Guest Speaker
Phillis DeWitt shares her story, “A Hero that Rescues.”
She is an author, former foster child who was rescued time after time, and is now a foster parent to over 100 children. Her book will be available for purchase.
Stonecroft Bible Study
Form new and meaningful friendships in an informal small group to learn how the Bible applies to real life. Call Sharon at (239) 410-9945 for information and location.
Prayer And Fellowship Connection
Join us the third Wednesday of each month from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. for light breakfast, fellowship, a short topical lesson, and prayer. Call Nancy at (908) 581-5623 for location.
Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries Website: cwcflorida.org Facebook.com/BSECWC
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