Cross Creek Courier
Another Seabreeze Publication
Ale Tales And Lager Lore
By Diane Bothfeld, Certified Cicerone®
Save The Date:
Octoberfest Celebration at the Cross Creek Country Club Restaurant!
Saturday, October 26, 2024. 3 to 6 p.m.
Men’s and Women’s Stein Holding Competition – who can hold up a stein of beer the longest! Register the day of the event!
50/50 raffle to support the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida German food and beer! One drink ticket per person for either beer, house wine or soft drink!
Do not have to be a beer lover to attend! $30 per person.
Reservations Required by October 16th.
Contact the Cross Creek Clubhouse Restaurant to reserve a spot today!
Card News
Bridge Winners
By Frank Maranto
August 5
Frank Maranto and Dottie Buchholz 5010
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 4150
Pat and Janet Lenz 2950
August 12
Frank Maranto and Mary Fennick 4490
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 2870
August 19
Frank Maranto and Jim Zernzach 4610
Paula Maranto and Sharon Anglavar 3440
Nancy Kuehl and Pat Horschak 3430
August 26
Steve Little and Jim Zernzach 4530
Nancy Kuehl and Pat Horschak 3300
Carol Richardson and Mary Fennick 3240
October is here and so are the pumpkin themed food and beverages. Pumpkin spice this, and pumpkin spice that; well beer is also part of this trend.
Using pumpkin in beer also goes back to America’s early settlers on the East Coast in the 18th century. Barley was difficult to grow in the moist Southern climate and the Northern states have a wet fall that is hard on barley as well. Pumpkins were native to America, grew well, and were used as the starch and sugars needed by yeast to ferment into beer. Use what you have available!
Now pumpkin ales are a fall beverage associated with Halloween as well as Thanksgiving. They show up in the beer cooler in September and are available through November. The modern version usually contains pumpkin pie type spices of nutmeg, cinnamon, allspice and sometimes ginger.
There are many ways to use the pumpkin in the production of beer. In the 18th century version, very few to no other grains were used in the beer. The pumpkin was cooked and chopped up to provide the sugar and starches for the yeast to ferment. Some pumpkins were squeezed, like making cider, to use only the juice.
The modern version of pumpkin ale does contain grains to provide more of the sugars for fermentation. The pumpkin can be added as raw pumpkin, roasted pumpkin, pumpkin juice, or pureed pumpkin. The pumpkin is very fibrous and if not stained out properly could make a cloudy beer. The pumpkin adds an orange to amber color to the beer, provides a nuttiness or squash like flavor, and can add sweetness. The nutty flavor can easily be overwhelmed by spices.
Pumpkin ales are usually not bitter or hoppy beers, allowing the pumpkin flavor to shine through. Spices are usually used to mimic a pumpkin pie-type flavor. With spices, less is more, but some pumpkin ales are really trying to be pie in a glass. The flavor of pumpkin ale can vary widely to that sweet pumpkin pie in a glass to a subtle squash flavor with a hint of spice.
Pumpkin ales have a range of alcohol from 4.5 to 5.5% ABV, low bitterness from hops, and a range of colors from golden, orange, to a rich amber. This beer is a great addition to a Halloween party as a novelty beer but can pair well with Thanksgiving staples like roast turkey.
Pinochle Winners
By Bev Applegate
August 5
Don Applegate 719
Lori Bohan 688
Joe Spinelli 635
August 12
Bev Applegate 609
Lori Bohan 606
Corky Tannehill 602
August 19
Corky Tannehill 729
Lori Bohan 675
Mary Lou Lydecker 672
August 26
Don Applegate 799
Bev Applegate 598
Joe Spinelli 559
Local Fort Myers breweries make pumpkin themed beers and here are a few examples. Palm City Brewing makes Mommy’s PSL, a pumpkin themed ale. Coastal Dayz has a Pumpkin Habanero Ale adding a bit of chili spice to the pie. For larger national breweries, Samuel Adams makes Jack O Pumpkin Ale and Elysian Brewing makes Night Owl Pumpkin Ale. Experiment with these different pumpkin ales to see which one is right for you! It may become a pick for your Halloween party or Thanksgiving dinner! Always enjoy beer responsibly!
Walk to End Alzheimer’s is scheduled this year for Saturday, November 16, at the Florida Southwestern College on College Parkway, Fort Myers.
Kathy Choquette, a resident of Cross Creek Villa II, plans to walk to honor her dad who suffered and died from dementia. Kathy served as a caregiver for her dad and is committed to joining the walk in the fight to end Alzheimer’s in our community.
Alzheimer’s disease affects our families, friends, co-workers, and communities. Those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias need treatment advances that offer people facing the disease hope for more time with loved ones.
The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Let’s keep up the momentum and continue raising critical funds. Every dollar makes a difference in this fight.
Please consider donating to Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Kathy’s online – Gus’s Support Group at act.alz.org/ lee is available for easy donation.
Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease! Thank you for your continued dedication!
Contact: Kathy Choquette – (203) 807-2715 for more information.
Village News
The Verandas
By Roger Kadash
Dateline The Verandas
Here they come: Yes the snowbirds are starting to arrive. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone.
Patio party time: It is time to start getting the patio ready for Tuesday. Dust off all the tables and chairs. Special thanks to John and Amy Aske for letting us store all the patio tables, chairs and umbrellas in their garage.
Dates to remember in October: October 14 is Columbus Day and Thanksgiving in Canada and October 31 is Halloween.
October is known for: Many different interests and pursuits, for example, you’ll likely find people celebrating pasta month, pretzel month and cookbook month. October’s birthstone is opal and its flowers are marigold and cosmos.
Important Notice
All articles need to be sent to Mindy Tamaccio at mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
All articles must be submitted by the 4th of the previous month.
To All Reporters Submitting Copy
1. Village news: 300 words or less.
2. Deadline: Fourth of the month by 5 p.m.
3. Articles – Please do not capitalize all words.
4. Please sign articles.
E-Mail Addresses
Members can now e-mail their request to the following departments:
Office office@crosscreekfl.com
Restaurant restaurant@crosscreekfl.com Clubhouse clubhouse@crosscreekfl.com
Reminder - Keep Columns Brief
Pictures WILL NOT be returned. * * * * *
When submitting articles, please do not capitalize all letters.
Mindy Tamaccio, Editor Courier ...... (610) 812-0987 mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com
Cross Creek Restaurant and Lounge (239) 768-1474
Cross Creek Community Association
Vision And Mission Statement
Our Vision – To be a respected and affordable golf and clubhouse facility.
Mission – We operate a semiprivate golf and clubhouse facility that provides an enjoyable environment where members and guests receive superior customer service. Our goal is to exceed customer expectations everyday. We operate with innovative and creative management where honesty, integrity and good business practices are the foundation of our leadership. We foster an atmosphere of teamwork among members, staff and community.
Calling All Cross Creek Crafters, Artists And Creatives!
Space Is Filling Up – Act Soon!
Are you a woodworker, quilter, metalsmith, potter, candlemaker, a photographer, artist or any other type of creative?
We invite you to sell your creations at the first ever Cross Creek Craft Fair and Market!
• When: Sunday, November 17. The market will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Where: Cross Creek Clubhouse
• Details: A payment of $25 and a completed application will secure you a table space, coffee and continental breakfast during setup and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. We’ll do the marketing and be on hand to help with setup and vendor support.
The Fine Print Space is limited – applications will be reviewed on a first come, first considered basis. We are hoping this will become an annual event but right now we are testing the waters to gauge your interest. If we do not receive enough applications, we reserve the right to cancel the event. We are planning for 20 vendors this first year. We’ll handle the marketing and the logistics of the day.
How Do I Get Started?
1. Complete the application form. You can download it at https://crosscreekfl.com/special-events/ or email Karen Cooper at miatarun@yahoo.com or Mary Peabody at mlp4878@gmail.com to have a copy emailed to you.
2. Submit the application.
3. When you receive notification that your application has been approved you will receive instructions on when/where to submit payment.
4. Get creating!
Cross Creek Line Dancing
Sandra and Dino Milazzo have been promoting, performing, and teaching dance (Line Dance and Social Ballroom) for over 20 years. They’ve had the pleasure of doing the same at Cross Creek since 2019. You may have also seen the Milazzos at various dinner dances (they frequent on Fridays and special occasions) as they love to bring folks to their feet for fun and enjoyment of music and dance! Sandra and Dino cherish the many friends and acquaintances that they’ve had the pleasure of making at Cross Creek!
Please join us on Saturday mornings, from 9 to 10 a.m., for Line Dance! Just $5 per person. The class is designed for beginners, plus some intermediate steps as comfortable for the class. Whether you participate every week, or just occasionally, Sandra and Dino teach to accommodate all!
In order to better serve your concerns and questions regarding our community, please contact the following board members directly with your specific issues or questions.
Cross Creek Master Board Liaisons Telephone
Harvey LaPointe, President Common Grounds (435) 659-9805
Brent Minor, Vice President Golf Course (239) 768-0743 or (847) 636-1454
Frank Maranto, Treasurer (239) 785-4750
Debbie Kelly, Secretary Pro Shop and Cart Barn (703) 963-1104
Chance Chancellor, Director Lakes (239) 247-3627
John Castaldo, Director Restaurant (802) 272-9493
Alan Jones, Director Clubhouse Area Buildings and Pool (860) 670-4862
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Harvey LaPointe, President 13239 Oak Hill Loop 435-659-9805 Brent Minor, Vice President 13264 White Marsh Lane #19 768-0743 Frank Maranto, Treasurer 13110 Cross Creek Blvd., #309 785-4750 Debbie Kelly, Secretary 13131 Cross Creek Blvd., #107 703-963-1104 Chance Chancellor, Director 12745 Inverary Cir. 247-3627 John Castaldo, Director (802) 272-9493 Alan Jones, Director (860) 670-4862
CLUBHOUSE VILLAGE
John Carraher, President 13131 Cross Creek Blvd., #109 914-584-9784
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE 1
Brad Grove, President 13090 Cross Creek Court, #202 708-341-4499
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE II
Mike Stagg, President 13080 Cross Creek Court #301 920-229-4400
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
FAIRWAY WOODS CONDO I
Jeff Cason, President 12500 Cold Stream Drive, #301 256-503-9669
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Coastal Association Services 1314 Cape Coral Pkwy. E. #205 Cape Coral, Florida 33904
SINGLE FAMILY I Carol LaPointe, President 13230 Oak Hill Loop 435-901-9305
MANAGEMENT COMPANY D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
SINGLE FAMILY II Mark Woodman, President 12744 Inverary Circle 603-231-9392 MANAGEMENT COMPANY D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
TALL GRASS COURT VILLAS Sandra Jocelyn,
Ladies’ 18-Hole Golf League
It’s October! Are you ready to “fall in” with a new crowd this year? The Ladies’ 18-Hole Golf League At Cross Creek invites you to up your golf game – and have fun meeting new people! The 2024/25 season begins 8 a.m., Wednesday, November 6. Annual dues remain at $55, including the handicap fee required for league play. Visit or call the Pro Shop soon! Registration deadline is Monday, November 4.
Cross Creek Book Club
Best Books Of 21st Century In
The New York Times
Greetings,
A recent Sunday New York Times book section had the 100 best books of the 21st century. For each book on the list there is a picture of the book, a couple of paragraphs about the books and “Like it? Try” sections with two more books which are similar to that book. In addition, there are lists of the 10 best books from the 21st century by the following authors:
Fall Festival
Edison And Ford Winter Estates, October 26, 9 a.m. To 4 p.m.
Come spend the day with us as you stroll along and shop craft vendor booths, get something to eat and drink, and listen to music. Plus, there will be lots of fun activities for the kiddos! The festival is free to attend; however there is a fee to participate in each activity, and visitors are encouraged to bring cash. Admission to the museum, laboratory, and riverside of the property requires an additional ticket.
This is just in case you need more books on your books you want to read list. Enjoy, Pam Conti (607) 759-1966
“Reading to the mind is what exercise is to the body” –Joseph Addison
Activities
• Banyan tree climb
• New inflatable obstacle course
• Pumpkin patch and pumpkin painting (with first, second, and third place prizes awarded)
• Mobile make-yourown teddy bear shop
• Flower truck for creating your own floral bouquet
Cross Creek Travelers
By Kathy Bonick
Biltmore Estate And The Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, N.C., Oct. 20 To 25, $915 Per Person Double Occupancy (Add $209 For Singles)
Fall dazzling splendor at the Biltmore Estate should not be missed, harvest season in the vineyards and gardens brimming with colorful mums are one of the many reasons to visit at this time of the year.
Five nights lodging including three consecutive nights in the Asheville area
Eight meals including five breakfasts and three dinners
A guided tour of Asheville, N.C.
A full day visit to the Biltmore Estate
A guided drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway
A visit to the famous Folk Art Center
A visit to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center
Join us for this fall trip not to be missed.
Amelia Island, St. Augustine And Jacksonville, Fla., Dec. 9 To 12, Four Days/Three Nights, $529 Double Occupancy
Motorcoach transportation
Three nights lodging in the Jacksonville area with six meals: three breakfasts and two dinners
A visit to the Fountain of Youth
Guided tours of Amelia Island and St. Augustine
Fantastic shopping on historic St. George Street
Narrated cruise on the St. John’s River
Dinner party and entertainment
See the historic city of St. Augustine in white lights at evening for the Christmas season.
Call Kathy Bonick to sign up. There is a $75 per person deposit, (309) 265-7241.
Charleston, S.C., Feb. 24 To March 1, 2025, Six Days/ Five Nights, $799/Double Occupancy
Transportation on top quality motorcoach, restroom and video equipped
Five nights lodging including three consecutive nights in the Charleston area
Eight meals including five breakfasts and three dinners
A visit to famous and historic Middleton Place
A visit to the historic Charleston City Market
A relaxing harbor cruise in Charleston
A guided tour of Charleston
A tour of historic Charleston home and historic Charleston plantation
There is a $75 per person deposit required. Call Kathy Bonick at (309) 265-7241 or email at kathyhike17@ yahoo.com.
September 27 - November 9
of
is the story
November 22 - December
may be subject to change.
Florida Rep Theatre Kicks Off 27th Season
With The Musical Joyride, Forever Plaid!
The Smash Hit 1950s Music Revue, By
Stuart Ross
And James Raitt, Comes To Life
In The Immersive Artstage Studio Theatre
Florida Repertory Theatre opens its 27th season with Forever Plaid a nostalgic, funny – and heavenly – musical revue by Stuart Ross and James Raitt. The production runs in the immersive ArtStage Studio Theatre from Sept. 17 through Oct. 27. Tickets start at $67 and may be purchased online at www.floridarep.org or by calling the box office at (239) 332-4488 or toll-free at (877) 787-8053.
Forever Plaid follows four high school buddies, Sparky, Smudge, Jinx, and Frankie, who, after tragedy strikes on the way to their first big gig, get to perform a show-stopping concert in the afterlife. The boy band takes audiences on a dazzling journey through the classic tunes of the 1950s performing beloved hits including Three Coins in the Fountain, Sixteen Tons, Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing, and more. The production was written, originally directed, and choreographed by Stuart Ross, with musical continuity supervision and arrangements by James Raitt. The score
Notice!
Please pick up all cigar and cigarette butts! Thank you.
Notice: Please return ALL RAKES to the bunkers when finished. Thank You
Attention Dog Owners
It is your responsibility to pick up after your dog. It’s the law. Some of you have been negligent in doing so. Please keep our Cross Creek beautiful!
Desserts are made of sugar and spice and everything nice, Appetizers can be anything like the roll of the dice, Entrees can be meaty, veggie and even rice, But please, let’s not have lice or mice. So take the dare, submit a recipe you would like to share, Some will make it with care, And even serve it for their fare. Submit all recipes to mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
Beware of alligators and snakes when retrieving your ball on the banks of the lakes.
features a variety of music styles including swing, boogie-woogie, Latin, Calypso, and more.
“ Forever Plaid is a loving, retro story about chasing dreams and second chances,” said Producing Artistic Director Greg Longenhagen. “Audiences of all ages will swoon as this talented ensemble of artists performs these iconic and timeless songs from the 1950s.”
The ensemble cast features New York-based actors Christopher Bailey, Caleb Funk, Steven Martella, and Jack Mastrianni, all making their Florida Rep debuts. Musical director and pianist Steven Zumbrun accompanies the troupe.
Director and choreographer Michael Marotta (Beguiled Again) will be joined by an expert creative team including musical director Steven Zumbrun (Florida Rep Debut), set designer Aaron Jackson (Beguiled Again), costume designer Kristina Tollefson (Driving Miss Daisy), lighting designer and ensemble member Todd O. Wren (The Importance of Being Earnest), sound
designer Braden Downing (Late Nite Catechism), and stage manager Mary Ruth Knackstedt (The Gin Game). Forever Plaid is sponsored by Sam Galloway Ford-Lincoln and Lighthouse Wealth Management.
Single ticket prices for Forever Plaid are $67 for regular performances from Sept. 17 to Oct. 27. Curtain times are 7 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday with 2 p.m. matinees on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and 8 p.m. for the opening night performance on Friday, Sept. 20. Florida Rep’s parking lot opens two hours before each performance and offers guests free parking across the street from the Arcade Theatre. About Florida Repertory Theatre
Founded in 1998, Florida Repertory Theatre is a fully professional, live theatre in the Fort Myers River District. Performances are held in the Historic Arcade Theatre and the ArtStage Studio Theatre on Bay Street between Jackson and Hendry.
Subscriptions for the 2024/25 season are on sale. Packages start as low as $246 for six shows. For more information visit FloridaRep.org or call the box office at (239) 332-4488 or toll-free at (877) 787-8053.
Follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for updates, behind-the-scenes insight, special offers, and more.
ArtStage Studio
Actor Caleb Funk
Producing Artistic Director Greg Longenhagen
Actor Christopher Bailey
Actor Steven Martella
Actor Jack Mastrianni
Director and Choreographer Michael Marotta
Musical Director and Pianist Steven Zumbrun