Stoneybrook Happenings
DENIS OLDANI, PRESIDENT HOA
Greetings Neighbors,
June is upon us, and with it comes the true start of Southwest Florida’s summer weather. Expect a mix of bright sunshine and those sudden, often heavy, afternoon downpours. These rains are vital for our ecosystem, but they can also make for challenging driving conditions. Remember to slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow extra stopping distance when the roads are wet. Ponding can occur quickly, so be vigilant for standing water.
As we enter hurricane season, now is the crucial time to ensure you and your family are prepared. Don’t wait until a storm is threatening to gather your supplies and
make a plan. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get ready:
• Emergency Supply Kit: Stock nonperishable food, water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), a first-aid kit, medications, flashlights, batteries, a hand-crank or battery-powered radio, and a whistle.
• Important Documents: Gather copies of insurance policies, identification, and other vital records in a waterproof container.
• Communication Plan: Establish how your family will communicate if separated and identify an out-of-state contact. 13 | Seeking Mah-Jongg And Pinochle
• Evacuation Route: Know your evacuation zone and plan your route in advance.
• Home Preparation: Secure loose outdoor items, trim trees, and consider storm shutters or plywood for windows.
• Cash: Have a supply of small bills on hand, as ATMs and credit card machines may not work during power outages.
Our beautiful beaches are a major draw, but safety should always be a priority. Always swim near a lifeguard and be aware of current
conditions. Pay attention to beach flag warnings, which indicate the safety level for swimming. Rip currents can be dangerous, so if you get caught in one, remain calm, swim parallel to the shore until you break free, and then swim to shore. Remember to use plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated.
For the anglers among us, June offers some fantastic fishing opportunities in Southwest Florida. Inshore, look for snook, redfish, and trout in the mangroves and grass flats, especially around dawn and dusk. Live bait such as pilchards or shrimp can be very effective. Offshore, tarpon fishing is often at its peak, and you might also find snapper and grouper on the reefs and wrecks. Always check local regulations and licensing requirements before you head out.
We are getting close with the CDD on an operations and maintenance agreement. A friendly reminder that our next HOA meeting is scheduled for June 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Center. Your participation and input are always valued, and we look forward to seeing you there.
Stay safe.
TLP Tidbit$
THOMAS L. PATRICCA, CFP ® , CEPS, AEP ®
INFLATION: THE SILENT PICKPOCKET IN YOUR WALLET
Let’s talk about inflation—the economic version of “death by a thousand paper cuts.” It doesn’t make front-page news every day (unless it’s spiking), and it rarely causes dramatic scenes like a crashing stock market. But quietly, steadily, it’s sipping your coffee, nibbling your sandwich, and eyeing your retirement account like it’s a buffet.
So, what is inflation, exactly?
Inflation is the general rise in prices over time. Translation: the dollars in your wallet are slowly losing their superpowers. That $5 footlong? Now it’s $8 and comes with fewer pickles. Inflation means your money doesn’t go as far as it used to—and it doesn’t send postcards to apologize.
Why should you care?
Because inflation is like a reverse gym membership: instead of helping you grow
stronger, it slowly shrinks your buying power. If you’re living on a fixed income or relying on your savings to get you through retirement, inflation is essentially draining your tank while you think you’re cruising along just fine.
Even at a modest 2.5 percent annual inflation rate, prices double roughly every 29 years. That means what costs $50,000 today might cost $100,000 by the time your toddler is ready to walk down the aisle—or your golden retriever’s great-grandpuppy needs a new chew toy.
Inflation and your cash flow: the short-term bite
In the short run, inflation feels like your budget’s been to happy hour without you. Groceries cost more. Gas prices play hopscotch. Even your Netflix subscription quietly creeps up. If your income doesn’t rise with inflation, your cash flow takes a hit— you’re spending more just to maintain the same lifestyle.
And let’s be honest: cutting back on avocado toast isn’t going to fix it.
Inflation and your cash flow: the long-term squeeze
Over time, inflation erodes the real value of your savings. That “comfortable” retirement income you projected may not feel so cushy
in 15 years if everything costs 50 percent more. If you’re not planning for inflation, you might end up with a long retirement—and an even longer list of things you can’t afford.
What about your investments?
Here’s where it gets tricky—and interesting. Some investments, like stocks, have historically outpaced inflation over the long haul. Others, like cash or bonds, can lose purchasing power unless they come with higher yields (which often don’t keep up when inflation’s running hot).
Real estate? It can be a decent inflation hedge, assuming you like being on a firstname basis with your plumber. Commodities like gold? They sparkle during inflation, but can be unpredictable. The key isn’t to bet it all on one horse—it’s to build a diversified portfolio that includes some inflationresistant muscle.
So, what should you do?
Good news: you don’t have to fight the inflation monster alone. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER ® can help you build a plan that accounts for inflation—so it doesn’t sneak up and bite. Together, you and your CFP ® can align your investments, income, and lifestyle so that inflation becomes just another part of the plan—not a plot twist.
Stoneybrook Ladies’ Luncheons
The following ladies’ luncheons have been scheduled:
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 11:30 a.m.
Coconut Jacks
5370 Bonita Beach Road SW
Bonita Springs
The ladies’ luncheons are going on hiatus for the summer and will return on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
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 Helen Ruocco at (239) 992-0616; paradise11@ comcast.net
MORNING STRETCH
MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY
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.
PEOPLE WATCHING
Monthly Motivation
JOSHUA A. SKY, CAREER COACH AND LEADERSHIP TRAINER
A few weeks ago, we were on a cruise. And while time off should allow us time to recharge our batteries and regroup from daily life, my experience was different. Instead, I found myself observing a wide variety of people, when engaged in activities, when sharing a table in the dining room or just people-watching. It was interesting because everyone was a stranger and
someone I would only be interacting with for a short time. Most likely, I would not be seeing my “cruise friends” once the cruise was over.
It was interesting to see the different styles of human behavior playing out each day. Some were more people-oriented, others were more detail-oriented, the introverts, and the extroverts. There were those who were persuasive, more flexible or easy-going, or those who were analytical, enjoyed telling stories or having an audience and those who need to be in control.
And because our time together was brief, it was easier to decide with whom to spend more time. In real life, we are often interacting with many styles as well. The difference is that in our real lives with friends, family and co-workers, we may not be able to keep our distance as easily. A greater understanding of human behavior is always valuable.
“One can state, without exaggeration, that the observation of and the search for similarities and differences are the basis of all human knowledge.” – Alfred Nobel
I-75 ROAD WIDENING COMMENCES IN 2026 BETWEEN CORKSCREW ROAD AND GOLDEN GATE
Despite the benefits of widening I-75 from six lanes to eight lanes, Estero residents living near the highway have expressed many concerns about the increased traffic noise that is likely to result. Senior staff at Engage Estero have prepared a detailed article that explains the way the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) determines whether
they would put noise abatement solutions in place and how the public, HOAs and gated communities, and our local council can influence the result.
Those communities that are likely to be most affected, but not necessarily limited to, are Stoneybrook, Woodlands, Tidewater, Villagio, Villa Palmares, Shadow Wood, Copperleaf, Lighthouse Bay, and Pebble Pointe.
The report can be accessed by clicking https://wp.me/pgats9-aP3 .
THE RESULTS OF AN IMPORTANT MEETING ABOUT THE SPORTS AND RECREATION COMPLEX ON MAY 23
The Village Management and the projects manager provided an update on the Estero Recreation and Sports Complex on Friday, May 23, at the Estero Recreation Center. The Estero Recreation and Sports Complex represents the most significant investment made by the Village in its 10year history. The site plan allows ample space for additional recreation and sportsrelated partnerships, which were covered during the meeting. The speakers were
Steve Sarkozy: Estero’s Village Manager
David Willems: Estero’s Village Director of Public Works
Michael Comparato, Director of Vieste LLC and Project Manager of the Sports Complex
If you missed this important meeting, Engage Estero has posted the YouTube video of the meeting together with a summary of the key points that were covered during the meeting on our website. Go to this link: https:// esterotoday.com/may2025 .
SEEKING MAHJONGG 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.
STEVE SARKOZY
MICHAEL COMPARATO DAVID WILLEMS
Save The Date For Valerie’s House
Valerie’s House will celebrate its second annual Sunset Soirée Thursday, November 20, at its Family is Forever home at 3551 Valerie’s House Way in Fort Myers.
The evening will include cocktails and dinner honoring families and loved ones they have lost.
“It will be our second time to host a festive event for our donors and supporters at our
home,” said Valerie’s House CEO and Founder Angela Melvin Churchill. “We are so looking forward to sharing our progress and hearing from the families who have been helped at Valerie’s House.”
Sponsorships of the Sunset Soirée are available from $2,500 to $25,000 that include tickets, mentions on social media, publication printing as well as branding at the event. Underwriting opportunities also are available from $1,500 to $10,000. Individual tickets are $250. More information is available at www.valerieshouse.org/events.
Second Annual Sunset Soirée
Valerie’s House has helped more than 6,000 children and their families since its founding in 2016 by Angela Melvin Churchill, whose mother, Valerie, was killed in a car accident in Fort Myers in 1987.
One in six children in Florida is predicted to lose a parent or sibling before the age of 25, according to the 2022 Childhood Bereavement Estimation Model.
Valerie’s House currently offers peer support groups and other activities at locations in Fort Myers, Naples, Punta Gorda, and Pensacola. Valerie’s House is a United Way partner agency and is fully supported by community donations.
About Valerie’s House Valerie’s House opened its doors in Fort Myers in 2016 with 20 children and has now served more than 6,000 children and their families in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Sarasota and Escambia counties. The organization provides a safe, comfortable place for children to share, grieve and heal together following the death of a close family member. For more information, visit www.valerieshouse.org.
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Tom English
Margo Williams
Laura Berrio
Bret McCormick
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Justein Matthias
Anissa Stender
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
Seabreeze Communications, Inc. does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc.
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
JUNE ON THE WATER
Warm sunny days with calm seas followed by afternoon thunderstorms is our typical weather pattern for June as summer sets in. Although Southwest Florida is rapidly growing, you notice a big decline of boaters and anglers over the next several months.
As far as fishing goes there will be good days and bad ones, strong tide days should give you the best opportunities. With the summer heat the bite is often better early and late in the day, however, be aware of thunderstorms in the afternoons. If you have the opportunity, fishing after a late day thunderstorm is often good once the storms pass. However, we have very nasty and dangerous thunderstorms, do not put yourself or others at risk if lightning is in the area.
sharks to our coast, if you want to battle a big fish and avoid the tarpon crowds this may be for you. Anchoring up with fresh bait soaked on bottom or under a float while waiting in the shade with a cool beverage is relaxing and productive. Do not be surprised if you hook a tarpon though!
Tarpon fishing is in full swing throughout the month, fishing around the full and new moon tides may give you the best shot at conquering the silver king. Warm water brings a lot of
If you are looking to bring home dinner, snapper may be your best bet. Decent size mangrove snappers are moving inshore as well as the gulf passes. Large mangrove snapper plus grunts and other bottom dwellers are often plentiful in gulf waters within sight of land over hard bottom and reefs. Shrimp, squid, and small pinfish or pilchards are candy to snapper, but you need to remember they have keen eyesight and easily become leader
shy. If the water clarity is good, dropping down to 10- or 12-pound fluorocarbon leader may be necessary to fool the larger fish. A fresh block of chum also helps with the bite, especially offshore.
The best snook fishing through the summer months is generally in and near the gulf passes and islands. Snook may range in size from fish under 20 inches to big females over 40 inches. This is their mating season with large schools of fish found along the beaches and nearby structure with strong
tide movement. If they’re active and hungry they will pounce on a variety of baits (with live the top choice), if not, they can be difficult to entice.
With warm water and high tides, under the shade of mangrove shorelines and structures such as docks and piers are the place to hunt redfish. Live bait, cut bait, and lures all work, just some better than others at different times. Many anglers prefer to soak a smelly cut bait on bottom and let the scent bring in the fish. It works great for
redfish, and often snook and trout, just be prepared to unhook a number of catfish.
Sea trout, another tasty inshore fish are plentiful and found throughout the inshore waters. Most are caught over grass flats in 3 to 8 feet of water. Fishing over grass flats one can expect a mixed bag including ladyfish, mackerel, jack crevalle, sharks, bluefish, and other species. The best trout action occurs before the midday sun heats up the shallow water. It’s possible to hook sea trout on a variety of lures and live baits.
Inshore and nearshore, anglers can expect Spanish mackerel and cobia. In the gulf, fishing around reefs is the best bet. Inshore, near the gulf passes and deeper grass flats. Watch for birds as they are following bait schools as are the cobia and mackerel.
If you’re making a day of it, as the midday heat sets in, it is the perfect time to head to one of our beautiful beaches for a swim and picnic lunch. This is also a great time to cool off while wetting a line and possibly get into some good catch and release snook action as schools are working up and down the surf. If a picnic lunch is not your thing, you can drop in to one of the many
great island restaurants accessible to boaters for a fresh prepared meal and beverages.
As we enter summer, many anglers, including me, prefer to get an early start and back to the dock before the midday heat sets in. If you fish all day or only a few hours, bring plenty of water and drink often to stay hydrated. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment on a hot day and before you realize it you are past the point of return.
For charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service and “Catch the Action” with Capt. Bill Russell, call or text (239) 410-8576, website: www.fishpineisland.com, email: gcl2fish@live.com.
Sunday, June 15th
Capt. Bill Russell is a native and lifelong resident of Pine Island who has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Pine Island and Southwest Florida. For the past 29 years, Bill has been a professional fishing guide who takes pride in customizing each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. Come join us and “Catch the Action.”
Bonita Springs – Estero Christian Women’s Connection
2025 SUMMER SCHEDULE
During the months of June through September, 2025 the Bonita Springs-Estero Christian Women’s Connection will not meet in a formal luncheon setting. Rather, join us for … “Just for Lunch”
Where: Pelican Sound Golf & River Club, Vista Room
When: Fridays – June 13, July 11, August 8 at 11:30 a.m.
• Three casual, friendly gatherings
• Order off the menu and pay by credit card (please, no Amex).
• Bring your friends and introduce them to BSECWC summer fun. Reservations are essential – text Kathi at (239) 390-3307 in advance and for more information.
AND JOIN US FOR THE ACTIVITIES BELOW BEGINNING IN THE FALL…
• Prayer And Fellowship Connection
Resumes September 17, 2025 at Ocean Church, Highway 41 in Estero. Third Wednesdays of the month at 9:30 a.m.
Small group setting for fellowship, short topical lesson, and prayer. Just come and bring a friend!
Call Nancy for information at (908) 581-5623.
• Stonecroft Bible Study
Resumes in the fall/winter, varied schedule. Make new friends and enrich your life at a weekly small group. Call Sharon for details at (239) 410-9945.
• Monthly Luncheons
Begin again Friday, October 10, 2025 at The Club at Grandezza in Estero. Reservation information, call Nancy at (520) 904-2913.
Stay connected with us on Facebook for updates, invitations, and inspiration at Facebook.com/BSECWC.
We can’t wait to spend the summer together!
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