OCTOBER 2025
A Look Inside
25TH ANNUAL E AWARDS FEATURE TWO OF CROSS CREEK’S FINEST
CROSS CREEK TRAVELERS HELP CROSS CREEK BOCCE THRIVE INTO THE FUTURE
Stephen
Ale Tales And Lager Lore
DIANE BOTHFELD, CERTIFIED CICERONE®
OCTOBERFEST CELEBRATION AT THE CROSS CREEK COUNTRY CLUB RESTAURANT! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, FROM 3:30 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
Apple Strudel making with Donna
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 tax and tip included.
Reservations are required and open on September 16.
Contact the Cross Creek Clubhouse Restaurant to reserve a spot today!
Welcome to the month of October and this month is the namesake for one of the biggest beer festivals in the world, Oktoberfest, held in Munich, Germany. This is the “Super Bowl” of beer that has spawned many Octoberfest festivals across the globe.
As you are reading this, Oktoberfest in Munich will be drawing to a close – the festival runs for the last two weeks in September through the first weekend in October. During that time, over 6 million people will attend and about 6.5 million servings of beer will be consumed! There is a lot of history surrounding Oktoberfest and the types of beer served.
The first celebration of Oktoberfest was in 1810 for the wedding of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Bavaria and was a multiday festival with free food, beer, and a horse race. The celebration was such a hit that it has continued through to today with a few years off for wars, epidemics and other political unrest. This is truly a Munich-based festival with only beers produced by brewers that are located fully within the city limits allowed to be served. The breweries are Augustiner-Brau, Munchen, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbrau, Lowenbrau, Paulaner and SpatenFranziskaner-Brau. The beer is served in the traditional 1-liter mugs called masskrug. Only these beers can be labeled Oktoberfest because this name is protected so the beers produced outside of Munich, Germany use several names – Octoberfest, Fest Biers and possibly Marzen.
You will notice that most beer makers produce an Octoberfest beer. Some are labeled Octoberfest, some Festbier and some Marzen. Marzen and Festbier are two defined styles, but Octoberfest could be based on Marzen or Fest Beer. Marzen is copper to bronze in color with rich malt flavors of toast and biscuit (think graham cracker not buttermilk) with low hop flavor and bitterness. Samuel Adams Octoberfest and Paulaner OktoberfestMarzen are two great examples. Festbier is lighter in color – light gold to gold, with rich bready and cracker like malt flavor, low hops and low bitterness. Two examples are Hofbrau Festbier and Weihenstephaner Festbier. Both of these beers are easy drinking and will go well with traditional Oktoberfest foods such as grilled pork, sausages and grilled beef. The caramelization of grilled meats goes well with the malty nature of these two beers.
Someday I may be lucky enough to travel to Munich to enjoy Oktoberfest but in the meantime, there are many local Octoberfest festivals and beers to celebrate here in Southwest Florida – so enjoy and remember to drink responsibly.
Cross Creek Travelers
MYRTLE BEACH HOLIDAY SHOW TRIP, DEC. 1 TO 6, $825 – DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
• Motorcoach transportation, Wi-Fi and restroom equipped
• Six nights lodging including three consecutive nights in Myrtle Beach area
• Eight meals: five breakfasts and three dinners
• Three evening Christmas shows – Legends in Concert, the South’s Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theatre and Christmas on Main at the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre
• Le Grand Cirque’s Winter in the Air at Broadway Theatre
• The Man of a Thousand Voices at the Asher Theatre
• Popular shopping and dining at both Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach
• Visit to Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade
• Amazing L.W. Paul Living History Farm
SAVANNAH
– JEKYLL ISLAND – BEAUFORT, MARCH 2 TO 6, $795
– DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
• Transportation on a top-quality motorcoach restroom and video equipped
• Four nights lodging in Savannah area
• Eight meals including four breakfasts and four dinners
• Guided tour of gorgeous Savannah with hop-on-hop-off privileges
• Guided tour of historic Beaufort, S.C. “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands” plus a visit to Paris Island
• Evening show at famous Savannah Theatre
• Guided tour of St. Simons Island
• Guided tram tour of Jekyll Island
SMOKY MOUNTAINS SHOW TRIP, NOV. 1 TO 7, $1,045 – DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
• Transportation in top quality motorcoach with at least 54 seats
• Six nights lodging including consecutive nights in the Smokies
• 10 meals including six breakfasts and four dinners
• Two morning shows: Smith Morning Variety Show and Patty Waszak Show
• One afternoon show: “Ole’!” Argentinian dance sensation
• Three evening shows: Country Tonight, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show
• Guided tour of the Great Smoky Mountains
National Park
• Free time in historic downtown Gatlinburg
Call Kathy Bonick at (309) 265-7241 for your reservation with only a $75 deposit per person or email at kathyhike17@yahoo.com.
Poet’s Corner
SUBMITTED BY GWEN
PANGBURN
WILD GEESE MARY OLIVER
You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees for a hundred miles through the desert repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.
Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. Meanwhile the world goes on. Meanwhile the sun and the clear pebbles of the rain are moving across the landscapes, over the prairies and the deep trees, the mountains and the rivers.
Meanwhile the wild geese, high in the clean blue air, are heading home again. Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting over and over announcing your place in the family of things.
Continental Women’s Club
LIZ PAUL
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, November 6 at 11:30 a.m. Our speaker will be Dr. Andrew Kurtz, the founder of Gulf Coast Symphony. This is his 30th Anniversary Season as music director, president and CEO. His very interesting presentation will focus on the role that the symphony plays in our community.
The meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907.
The cost to attend the luncheon is $28. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by the deadline of Tuesday October 28 for meal selection and to make a reservation.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.
25th Annual E Awards Feature Two Of Cross Creek’s Finest
MARY PEABODY
Hundreds of people made the early morning trek to the Caloosa Sound Convention Center to celebrate the 1,300 nominees recognized for providing outstanding customer service. We were proud to have not one, but two, nominees from Cross Creek represented. Corey Fellers and Marleen Kooker were recognized for the consistently outstanding service they provide to the members and visitors to Cross Creek.
Nominations will open soon for the 2026 awards – look for more information on how to submit a nomination later this year. Next year we hope to see even more of our fabulous Cross Creek staff recognized.
These awards, organized by the Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau, recognize customer service employees for excellence through extraordinary service and dedication. No matter their profession – taxi drivers, housekeeping staff, cashiers, police officers, airline agents, nurses, reservationists, front desk agents, and countless others – if their service made you feel good about being in Lee County, we want to see them celebrated.
It’s walk season! Save the date of November 8, for Walk to End Alzheimer’s located 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.
Those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias need to be understood, respected, supported and loved. Alzheimer’s Association is committed to accelerating the course to end this devasting disease. The Association’s mission is to eliminate this disease through the critical advancement of research; to enhance care and support; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health . The funds raised during this Walk will provide leadership , hope and support to end Alzheimer’s.
Please consider donating to Walk to End Alzheimer’s to make a difference in the fight. You can donate using Kathy’s online – Gus’s Support Group at act.alz.org/lee .
Together. We can end Alzheimer’s disease! Thank you for your continued dedication!
Contact: Kathy Choquette –(203) 807-2715 for more information.
Notes From The Master Board
HIGHLIGHTS
• Treasurer Frank Maranto reports the Cross Creek budget continues to do well with YTD numbers finding us favorable by $141,000 at the end of July. The reserve study is moving forward—the golf course in particular requires a lot of review since there is a lot of equipment contained in the reserve schedule and it takes time, and we want to make sure we are using the most appropriate values.
• Thank you to all who have completed the Member Survey regarding the clubhouse renovations. The survey closed at the end of September, the results will be compiled and shared hopefully by mid-October.
• The rains took a break for the Labor Day Golf Scramble and approximately 70 individuals got out on the course for a fun morning round of golf followed by lunch, prizes and awards.
• Special thanks to Al and Donna Jones, Ken and Lisa Hart, and Debbie Kelly for all their hard work to get all the chairs in the dining room recovered while we were shut down. Al, Ken, and the maintenance crew also got the TVs up on the fireplace wall.
• If you capture a particularly lovely/ unusual/funny picture of our Cross Creek property please send it along –we have a newspaper, a website and a social media presence that are all hungry for new photos. Send photos to masterboard@crosscreekfl.com along with your name (so we can credit you).
Reminder, we have a new email to contact the Master Board, masterboard@crosscreekfl.com to ask questions, clarify policies or raise an issue you think the Board should address.
Mary Peabody, Director On behalf of the Master Board
Village News
ROGER KADASH
VERANDAS
DATELINE THE VERANDAS
Here They Come: Yes, the snowbirds are starting to arrive. 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 Phillip Smith, Scott Blaser and Jim Mulliken for moving all the patio stuff from 107 into 202. A big thank you to Jim and Kathy Annarella for letting us store all patio stuff in their garage.
Dates To Remember In October: October 13, Columbus Day and Thanksgiving in Canada; and October 31, 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 flowers are marigold and cosmos.
The driveway was seal coated and new white lines at the entrance looks great.
The PB & J Drive Breaks Record
Thank you, Cross Creek members and friends, for your incredible support of the annual Share the Love PB & J Drive!
Thanks to your generosity and the overwhelming response from the community, the drive reached a recordbreaking total of 22,350 pounds of peanut butter and jelly collected— the largest drive to date! This effort represents thousands of sandwiches and snacks that nourished children across Southwest Florida all summer long.
Thank you for being part of the solution and for showing up for your neighbors in such a meaningful way.
With Gratitude, Stefanie Ink Edwards, CEO Community Cooperative
Recipe Corner
OCTOBER IN FLORIDA: A MONTH OF SUNSHINE, TRADITIONS, AND COMMUNITY
As the rest of the country settles into crisp autumn days, Florida enjoys one of its most pleasant months of the year. October brings slightly cooler breezes, lower humidity, and plenty of sunshine—making it a favorite time for both locals and visitors.
WEATHER AND LIFESTYLE
October in Florida offers ideal weather for outdoor living. Days are warm but comfortable, evenings are breezy, and hurricane season begins to taper off. It’s the perfect month to enjoy alfresco dining, sunset beach walks, or golf outings without the intensity of summer heat. For snowbirds, this month often marks the beginning of their return, reuniting neighborhoods and golf clubs with familiar faces.
FALL FESTIVITIES, FLORIDA STYLE
While leaves don’t change color here the way they do up north, Floridians embrace fall traditions in their own unique way. Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and farmers’ markets pop up across the state, offering local produce and festive photo opportunities. Coastal towns and city centers host Oktoberfests, art shows, and craft fairs that highlight Florida’s diverse culture and cuisine.
SEASONAL FLAVORS
October is the season of comfort foods with a tropical twist. Think pumpkin spice iced lattes, Key lime pies dressed with autumn garnishes, and seafood chowders served on cooler evenings. Local chefs often blend harvest flavors with fresh Florida seafood, creating menus you’ll only find this time of year.
HALLOWEEN HIGHLIGHTS
From theme parks with elaborate haunted houses to neighborhood trick-or-treating, Halloween in Florida is a true celebration. Many communities host outdoor movie nights, costume parades, and waterfront “boat-o-ween” events where decorated vessels light up the marinas. Whether you enjoy spooky thrills or just festive fun, October has something for everyone.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
This is also the season when Floridians come together. Neighborhood gatherings, charity walks, and fall festivals create opportunities to meet new friends and strengthen community ties. It’s a great time to volunteer, support local businesses, and enjoy the vibrant social life that Florida offers.
Closing thought: October in Florida is about balance—warmer days and cooler nights, cozy traditions and beachside living. It’s a reminder that fall here may look different than in other states, but it’s every bit as special.
PUMPKIN SPICE DAIQUIRI (FLORIDA STYLE)
INGREDIENTS
2 ounces Florida white rum
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce pumpkin spice simple syrup
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Add rum, lime juice, and syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 20 to 30 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
4. Garnish with a lime wheel and cinnamon stick.
PUMPKIN SPICE MULE
INGREDIENTS
• 2 ounces vanilla vodka (Absolut Vanilla recommended)
• ½ ounce pumpkin spice simple syrup
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin purée
• ½ ounce fresh lime juice
• 4 ounces ginger beer
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a shaker, combine vanilla vodka, lime juice, syrup, and purée with ice.
2. Shake well and strain into a copper mule mug or glass filled with crushed ice.
3. Top with ginger beer.
4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick, dehydrated lime wheel, and freshly grated nutmeg.
KEY LIME COLADA (ZOMBIE BLOOD HALLOWEEN TWIST)
INGREDIENTS
• Key lime cream liqueur
• Coconut rum or coconut-water rum
• Absinthe
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Shake the Key lime liqueur, coconut rum, and absinthe with ice.
2. Serve in a tiki-style or skull mug for that Halloween flair.
3. Add decorative drips or garnishes to evoke an eerie “zombie” vibe.
Card News
WINNERS
Aug. 4 No Cards
Aug. 11
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 2250
Frank and Paula Maranto 1780
Aug. 18
Carol Richardson and Mary Fennwick 3500
Frank and Paula Maranto 2620
Aug. 25
Frank and Paula Maranto 4820
Steve Little and Jim Zernzach 3990
PINOCHLE WINNERS
Cross Creek Mah-Jongg
Help Cross Creek Bocce
Thrive Into The
Future
After many years of dedicated service Clay Lance has decided to step down as Bocce Coordinator for a well-deserved break. In order to keep the league running smoothly, we are seeking a coordinator (or two co-coordinators) to step up and provide leadership to the league.
This volunteer position is needed mid-November to mid-March. Much of the early season work can be done remotely. The time frame in general requires two to five hours/week mid-November to midJanuary, four to six hours/week mid-January to mid-March. Strong communication skills are critical for this position, along with familiarity with email and spreadsheets. There is help/training/support available to get you off to a successful start.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS INCLUDE
• Review the rules and regulations of Bocce.
• Communicate with Day Captains (each day has an individual assigned to take charge of that day’s play).
• Communicate with the Team Captains – Overview of their responsibilities. Are they planning to play this year? Do they have any open spaces on their team that need filling?
• Maintain the list of Bocce participants.
• Construct the seasonal game schedule.
• Collect the results from each day of play – tracking the winners.
• Collect the payments from teams, keep the records, and ensure that all money gets deposited.
• Plan the banquet (with assistance from others) –set the date and work with the restaurant manager to set the menu.
• Ensure all payments are made for necessary expenditures.
• Communicate the weekly team results for posting on the website.
Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Please email masterboard@crosscreekfl.org – we’ll be in touch.
MEN’S GOLF NEWS
MEN’S 18 HOLE GOLF LEAGUE
If you golf and want to meet new friends during and after a golf round in the clubhouse, Cross Creek Men’s 18 Holers (CCM18) would like to invite new and past members to join our golf league, which is played every Friday morning, shotgun start at 8 a.m.
Our league will start the first Friday of November and continues through the end of April.
The cost to join as a member is $65. Please make a check out to: CCM18. (Paid in Pro Shop)
Cost for golf is separate . Membership fee includes keeping track and posting of your Handicap Index for Ghin.
If you are a new member and don’t have a handicap, you will have one after three events.
Cost to play for individual golf is based on time of season posted in the Pro Shop and additional cost for lunch during league
meetings which occurs the first Friday of every month following golf. Please note that payment for the league luncheon is collected one week prior and day of event. Selection of meal is chosen before golf round.
You are not obligated to play every week or attend the luncheon. We do want everyone to enjoy themselves.
Most games are handicap to level the playing field. Games can be individual and team. Games for events are posted online and in the Pro Shop. Sign up on the list to play before noon on Wednesday, which is on the table inside the Pro Shop. Posting of play on Friday will be sent by email or viewed in the Pro Shop.
This season is based on age, 74 and younger play from the No. 2 tee boxes and those 75 and older can play from No. 2 or No. 3 tee boxes. Handicap will be adjusted based on your tee boxes and will continue through the season for prize/ handicap reasons.
Golf Highlight Events are:
• Match Play For Tees 2 And 3
• Member/Member
• Ryder Cup Against Del Tura Country Club
• Club Championship
Additional Cost Of $5 For CTP And Birdies –Paid before play that day (Closest To Pin)
Our league information is posted on the Cross Creek Website: crosscreekfl.com under Leagues: Men’s 18 Hole.
You can call or talk to our League Officers for further information.
See You Soon, Men’s 18 League Officers
WOMEN’S GOLF NEWS
WOMEN’S 18 HOLE GOLF LEAGUE
Get Ready! Get Set! Golfing season is almost here!
Ladies of all ages and skill are invited to join the Cross Creek Women’s 18 Hole Golf League. You have to play to improve!
Season begins WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 8 a.m. Shotgun.
Be sure to sign up and pay dues (check, please) at the Cross Creek Pro Shop any time after October 1. Yes, dues have increased because the Handicap Fee increased. League dues are $35, and HF is $30 for a total amount: $65.
Looking forward to seeing you on the green!
Cross Creek Book Club
Greetings,
I look forward to beginning our discussions in November. Thanks to all who have agreed to lead a discussion and all who join our discussions each month. The meetings are in the clubhouse, in the Garden Room the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. Looking forward to seeing you there. Date
Nov. 14 The Stolen Queen (4.3, 349) Fiona Davis
Dec. 12
Karen Hoff
Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Annabelle Tometich Donna Noggle Florida & Felony (4.5, 306)
Jan. 9, 2026 Run, Rose, Run: A Novel (4.4, 547)
James Patterson, Cheryl Von Ruden
Dolly Parton
Feb. 13 James: A Novel (4.6, 304)
Percival Everett Gwen Pangbaum
March 13 The Frozen River: Ariel Lawhon Joyce Palm A GMA Book Club Pick (4.6, 420)
April 10 The Wedding People: Alison Espach Jeanne Franz A Novel (4.3, 355)
Happy reading, Pam Conti (607) 759-1966
Crossword Puzzle
Foam
Drill
Domicile
Respect
Egg-shaped 17. Stimulating (Br. sp.)
19. Focusing glass
20. Lower limb 21. Pauses
22. Durable fabric
23. Easily broken
25. Not 1st or 2nd
27. Light emitting diode
28. Cantata
31. Any factual evidence 34. Tally
35. Goat hair fabric
36. Young sheep 37. Lull
38. Blockhead 39. Air hero
Mothers 41. Territories 42. Discolored 44. 3 in Roman numerals
45. Deservedly receives
Mixture
50. Mesa
52. Moon of Saturn
54. 56 in Roman numerals
55. Anagram of “neat”
56. Disparagement
58. Prevaricates
59. Liquid bodily waste
60. Mine entrance
61. Misplaced
62. Twisty turns
63. Sleeping platforms
1. Mantelpiece
2. Hermit
3. Alpha’s opposite 4. Each
5. A protective covering
6. Sheriff’s group
7. Module
8. Grotesque
9. Unit of energy
10. Ravel classic
11. Negative bank balance
12. Sounded a bell
13. Otherwise
18. Sorrow
22. Location
24. Amorphous shape
26. Stringed instrument
28. Group of eight
29. Footnote note
30. Horse feed
31. Frolic
32. Speed competition
33. Beaten eggs
34. School terms
37. Field of grass
38. Follow
40. Extra
41. Tropical vine
43. Most recent
44. Pictures
46. Make amends
47. Coast
48. Evade
49. Breath fresheners
50. Formal dance
51. Freshwater mussel
53. Colored part of the eye
56. Expected
57. Bar bill
The Good, Bad And Ugly Of The Nightshade Family
KAREN M. MAXWELL, HORTICULTURE PROGRAMS COORDINATOR AND HORTICULTURE SPECIALIST AT EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES
Back in the 1900s, the Edisons grew many fruits and vegetables to capitalize on the mild winter weather in Fort Myers and compensate for limited options to purchase fresh produce. The excess harvests were sold or shipped north to friends and family. Though the local Heitmans opened a grocery store downtown in 1898, it was not like grocery shopping today.
THOMAS AND MINA EDISON GREW EGGPLANT (SOLANUM MELONGENA) , WHICH IS ACTUALLY A FRUIT, NOT A VEGETABLE AT THEIR FORT MYERS HOME.
In 1896, a new cookbook would revolutionize the kitchens for Americans – The Boston Cooking School Cookbook by Fannie Merritt Farmer – a copy of which was likely part of Mina Edison’s Glenmont library. This kitchen guide dramatically improved cooking techniques by employing standardized measurements for ingredients within a recipe. Currently in its 13th edition, it was the first cookbook to do so. It also included a selection of helpful lists for homemakers, including recommendations for the kitchen garden.
We can hypothesize that Mina Edison or her property caretakers would have adapted Miss Farmer’s recommendations for inclusion in their Fort Myers’ gardens, which is why the historical documents indicate that eggplant was included in the Edison’s truck garden (caretakers noted eggplant, Solanum melongena was grown as early as 1908).
The winter tropical vegetable garden in Southwest Florida is the ideal environment for a number of plants in the genus Solanaceae or so-called nightshade family. Some favorite vegetables, such as potatoes, tomatoes and peppers, are members of the Solanaceae genus of plants, which also includes tobacco, petunias, angel’s trumpet and belladonna.
Just the name Solanaceae provokes caution, and while that is certainly true with belladonna and tobacco, the vegetables are important agricultural plants that were domesticated and improved in the New World. The fifth most important species of the genus – the eggplant –
IN NORTHERN STATES, THE EASTERN BLACK NIGHTSHADE (S. PTYCANTHUM) IS A PERSISTENT ANNUAL THAT IS HARD TO REMOVE FROM GARDENS. ITS FLOWERS LOOK SIMILAR TO EGGPLANT AND OTHER SOLANUM SPECIES.
is the only one improved, hybridized and domesticated in the Old World.
As far back as the Iliad & the Odyssey, belladonna (Atropa belladonna) owes its notorious label in the Solanaceae family for hallucinogenic and poisonous properties, and it is an important herbaceous plant in the famous Chelsea Physic Garden (Apothecary Garden of 1673) in London.
Many northern gardeners are familiar with the eastern black nightshade ( S. ptycanthum ), a persistent annual that is hard to remove from gardens. Its flowers look similar to eggplant and other Solanum
species. Here in our gardens, the obnoxious Solanum pest is the twoleaf nightshade ( S. diphyllum ), which is an aggressive invasive that produces bright orange berries that are irresistible to birds – take a guess at what happens with those digested seeds. Like many of today’s invasives, the plant was introduced as an ornamental for its striking berries back in the 1960s. The berries contain seeds that boast an 85% germination rate and can remain dormant for as long as two years! Once familiar with this plant form and leaves, if there is any doubt, a quick crush of its leaves produces a pungent, unmistakable odor alerting one to its toxic compounds.
In Solanum plants, the leaves and particularly the roots, contain high levels of glycoalkaloids, which are toxic chemicals that help the plant protect itself from predation. Since eggplant is a close cousin to toxic plants, why is it not similarly harmful? Well, the leaves (as in tobacco) and stems do collect a concentration of these chemicals and therefore should not be consumed. However, the fruits do not. Yes, eggplant is not a vegetable botanically speaking as the flower must be pollinated and produces a fruit with seeds inside. Vegetables, on the other hand, can be any part of the plant: flowers, stems, leaves, stalks, etc.
The ugly eggplant began its relationship with humans in the medicinal realm. In 2010, DNA work performed by biologists at the University of Utah determined its origins were in Africa and it spread to become one of the top five agronomic plants in Asia and the
Mediterranean, with some suggesting that Alexander the Great brought the plant from India to the Mediterranean as early at 365 BC.
The wild eggplant, like its cousin datura or devil’s trumpet, has spines along its stem – another botanical feature designed to discourage herbivores. Ancient Chinese are credited with hybridizing the wild eggplant and its small green fruit, to the spineless plant with elongated purple fruit, which today is the staple of such dishes as Caponata, Baba Ghanoush and Brinjal Curry.
VISITORS CAN LEARN MORE ABOUT EGGPLANT AND MANY OTHER EDIBLES DURING A GARDENING CLASS ON OCTOBER 28.
On October 28, there will be a class on growing vegetables offered at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The class will cover best cultivation practices for a selection of great vegetables, as well as recognizing and responding to potential pests and diseases. Attendees also can sample the Italian relish known as caponata and we will share a classic caponata recipe. Registration is required at EdisonFord.org. I brought home two varieties of seeds of melanzana (literally bad egg) from Italy, and I will be sharing these during the class.
Enjoyed for its high nutritional value, low calorie count and high fiber, today’s gourmand can grow a splendid variety of eggplants, the aubergine of Europe, in a range of colors and sizes such as white to deep purple, striped, and tiny as in tiny Thai or elongated for stuffing as in New York improved – a variety grown by Thomas and Mina Edison and a staple in grocery stores today. Eggplants grow slowly compared to other vegetables (because it is a fruit you may recall), taking as long as 120 days to mature, depending on the variety.
TWOLEAF NIGHTSHADE IS AN INVASIVE SPECIES IN FLORIDA AND SHOULD NEVER BE PLANTED (IT’S RELATED TO THE EGGPLANT).
Consumer Alerts
FIVE WAYS TO HELP YOU CUT DOWN ON UNWANTED CALLS
If you feel like you get more than your share of unwanted calls, you’re not alone. To slow down these persistent calls—some of which lead straight to scams— take a few simple steps.
• Register your phone number for free in the National Do Not Call Registry. Registering will likely cut down how many unwanted calls you get. Unfortunately, it won’t stop calls from scammers to your home and mobile phone—and there are still organizations and groups allowed to call you.
• Hang up on robocalls. Getting a lot of recorded messages trying to sell you something? Odds are the calls are not legal. Don’t press any numbers or call back. Instead, hang up and report them at DoNotCall.gov.
• Use your phone’s built-in features. Many cell phones have settings that let you block calls from specific numbers or send certain calls straight to voicemail, especially if they come from a phone number you don’t recognize.
• Check call-blocking or calllabeling services. Find out what your phone company offers by contacting their customer service using a phone number or website you know is right. Watch a short video to help you block unwanted calls on your cell phone or home phone.
• Research apps to filter calls before downloading. Some callblocking apps are free, while others charge. At ctia.org, you can see wireless industry lists of call-blocking apps. See what independent experts are saying and check the ratings and reviews on your online app store before you decide on a call-blocking app.
Learn more about how to stop unwanted calls at ftc.gov/calls.
Lee Health Launches Cancer Support Group Program At The Lee Health Cancer Institute In Fort Myers
This pioneering initiative is the sole program of its kind between Sarasota and Miami, is a unique opportunity that our community is privileged to have.
A powerful new chapter in cancer care is here. The Lee Health Cancer Institute in Fort Myers has opened a firstof-its-kind Cancer Support Community in Southwest Florida, providing a dedicated space for emotional, social, and practical support to anyone affected by cancer.
As the only program of its kind between Sarasota and Miami, this all-encompassing resource delivers free, personalized support to help patients, families, and caregivers navigate every stage of the cancer journey. From diagnosis and treatment to survivorship and grief, this space provides a comprehensive support system, fostering connection, strength, and healing.
Located on the fourth floor of the Lee Health Cancer Institute, the Cancer Support Community is designed to meet the unique needs of everyone.
“We look forward to bringing together individuals impacted by cancer in a safe and welcoming environment where they can find understanding, hope, and strength,” said Dr. Mark Roh, chief physician of the Lee Health Cancer Institute. “We’re creating a true community of support. Through free support groups, educational classes, and social gatherings, patients, survivors, caregivers, and families can connect with others who truly understand. Most importantly, they will know they are not alone. There is strength in shared experiences and healing in connection.
The services offered include:
• Education on cancer-related topics for patients and their loved ones
• Personalized counseling for all individuals affected by cancer
• Healthy lifestyle workshops led by health professionals
• Guidance and resources to assist with treatment decisions, referrals, and staying connected
• Survivorship programs for posttreatment support and wellness
All programs are led by a team of licensed professionals, including clinical social workers, exercise specialists, physical therapists, and oncology dietitians. This collaborative, holistic approach ensures participants receive high-quality, specialized care, instilling confidence and addressing all their needs.
For even greater convenience, much of the programming is also offered virtually, in addition to in-person sessions.
Lee Health’s Cancer Support Group program was made possible through donations from our community to the Lee Health Foundation, which works to bring novel and enhanced medical options to Southwest Florida. These
Montage Women’s Club
The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We normally meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Our August meeting took place at the Hilton Garden Inn (Captiva Ballroom), 12600 University Drive, Fort Myers 33908, corner of College Parkway at the Summerlin Road overpass. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a short social period followed by lunch at noon followed by an informative speaker program and a short business meeting. Within the organization are various interest groups for members’ participation. Membership is open to both year-round and seasonal residents. We welcome you to visit Montage for a luncheon.
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, October 23. Michelle, a representative from the Fort Myers Theatre (located on San Carlos Boulevard) along with several actual performers, will share their overall views of their live community theatre and discuss the theatre’s upcoming available slate of events.
Luncheon fee is $30 per person, and you have a choice of either a regular menu entree with Chef’s choice of dessert, and/or a plant based/vegan entree with fresh fruit for dessert.
If you would like to attend a Montage meeting, need further information, or would like to make a reservation, please call Rita Artwohl at (239) 7037787. Reservations cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, October 16.
contributions not only improve care and outcomes for our patients but also provide essential support services for patients and their loved ones, enabling them to navigate their journey with strength, hope, and compassion.
To learn more about Lee Health’s Cancer Support Group program, please visit www.leehealth.org.
About Lee Health
Lee Health has been a cornerstone of health care in Southwest Florida since opening its first hospital in 1916. As a nonprofit, integrated health system, Lee Health is dedicated to providing
high-quality, compassionate care to everyone, regardless of their ability to pay. With a strong commitment to community health and wellness, Lee Health commits to evolving with the growing and changing needs of the region. The system offers comprehensive services through four acute care hospitals, Golisano Children’s Hospital, three skilled nursing locations, outpatient facilities, urgent care centers, and a wide network of primary care and specialty practices. Lee Health supports every step of the health journey, from preventive care to advanced treatment for every member of our community. Learn more at www.LeeHealth.org.
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
OCTOBER ON THE WATER
October is a refreshing month around Southwest Florida. After a long hot summer, we get relief with cooler days, a noticeable drop in humidity, and fewer thunderstorms. This combination sets off good fishing opportunities as they are hungry, active, and on the move.
Fall is the time that schools of redfish devour anything in their path across our inshore waters. Often there may be several hundred or more working across the shallows on an eating mission. If you’re lucky enough to cross paths with a school, it’s a memory not soon forgotten. Fishing for schooling redfish peaks
in October generally lasting until we get our first real cold front. Exactly when that is, only time will tell.
Snook are on the move transitioning from their summer homes around the Gulf beaches and nearby areas and move closer to their winter haunts inshore. Snook of any size are a fun challenge. Live bait puts odds in your favor, but with cooling water and fishing becoming more active, artificial baits can be a good choice. Snook season is open in October.
Good sea trout action is another benefit of cooler water; active and hungry, and at
times feeding in schools under bait pods over the inshore grass flats. Trout can run in size from small guys under 12 inches to fish well over 20 inches. Both live bait and lures work equally well with trout this month. With a little effort, a fresh trout dinner is a good possibility.
Mangrove snapper fishing was good all summer inshore. Many will make their way offshore by month’s end. Look for artificial reefs and ledges or hard bottom in depths from 20 to 50 feet to hold concentrations of fish. Snapper should be holding in and around the Gulf passes, where days with slower tides often present the best opportunity. Live shrimp with light tackle is the best way to go, and if you are anchored, a chum block is a great idea. Always have a heavier rig in the rod holder with a live flatlined bait. You never know when a big cobia, tarpon, king mackerel, or some other species might come into play.
Expect sheepsheads to begin making a presence later in the month. As they move in, there could be some big ones mixed in with the snapper around nearshore reefs and along the beaches or structure around the coast islands. Sheepsheads will not eat any type of fish. Live or dead, shrimp is the go-to bait for most anglers. As the water continues to cool, sheepsheads numbers will increase and peak into winter months.
October is one of the best months of the year to fish around Southwest Florida. There are plenty of days with great comfortable weather, hungry fish, plus the winter crowds have not yet returned.
Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting www.myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish.
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 .
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.”
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno...
FIREARMS LEFT IN VEHICLES
It seems as if almost daily we watch news reports depicting gun violence across the nation. At the time of producing this security tip, the United States has lost 9,974 individuals to gun violence and has seen another 18,208 injured in 2025 alone.
This message is neither an assault on Second Amendment rights nor a comment addressing the motives for gun violence in the United States. This message is solely intended to address removing firearms from our vehicles when we exit for the evening.
Almost weekly, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office shares a “Lock It or Lose It” message on one or all of our social media platforms.
We repeatedly ask that in addition to locking your cars and trucks when retiring for the evening, we remind vehicle owners to remove valuables … especially firearms.
A Johns Hopkins University study revealed that an estimated 380,000 guns are stolen each and every year … many from unlocked cars and trucks.
Community safety is and must be a concerted endeavor. Our decisions affect the well-being of our neighbors and friends. Let’s ensure that we conduct ourselves responsibly and remove firearms from our vehicles at night.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
RESOURCE HUB
MINDY TAMACCIO, EDITOR COURIER
(610) 812-0987 | mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com
DO YOU HAVE THE ‘WRITE’ STUFF?
I’m in search of a few residents who would like to contribute to our newsletter. Yes, that means you ! This is our newsletter; let’s make it our own! Now is your chance to share your interests with the community. You can contribute each month, just once, or once in a while. You can even give yourself a fancy title like columnist, correspondent, or wordsmith-extraordinaire!
• Are you involved in any particular activities in Cross Creek or around town?
• Can you share your knowledge about a specific topic or hobby?
• Do you have (or did you retire from) an interesting career?
• Are you the person who always knows what to do/where to go in our area?
• Do you like to take pictures or draw cartoons?
• Can you pass along a favorite recipe?
• Would you like to write but need inspiration? (I can help!)
If you answered yes to any of the above or have an idea of your own, contact me at mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
I look forward to hearing from you! And as always, I’d like to extend a huge “thank you” to all of our current contributors for their continued efforts. Without you, this paper would not be possible!
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 give your articles a headline & Byline
5. All articles need to be sent to Mindy Tamaccio at mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
RECIPES
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.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Harvey LaPointe, President 13239 Oak Hill Loop
435-659-9805
John Castaldo, Vice President (802) 272-9493
Frank Maranto, Treasurer 13110 Cross Creek Blvd., #309 785-4750
Debbie Kelly, Director 13131 Cross Creek Blvd., #107 703-963-1104
Chance Chancellor, Director 12745 Inverary Cir. 247-3627
Alan Jones, Director (860) 670-4862
Mary Peabody, Director (802) 598-4878
CLUBHOUSE VILLAGE
John Shulak, President carolandlou@yahoo.com MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE 1
Gary Presley, President garypresley@yahoo.com MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
RESOURCE HUB
DIRECTORY
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 689-3080
FAIRWAY WOODS CONDO II
Bruce Hamel, President 12561 Cold Stream Drive, #604 586-604-0880
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Coastal Association Services 1314 Cape Coral Pkwy. E. #205 Cape Coral, Florida 33904 689-3080
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, President 13428 Tall Grass Court 239-561-7389
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
TERRACE CONDO I
Tom Sloan, President 13288 White Marsh Lane, #8 816-716-4542
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
First Service Residential Cross Creek Property Manager, Chris Conti Office hours: Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | 866-378-1099
TERRACE CONDO II
Sheila DeMichele, President
sheilademichele@gmail.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
TERRACE CONDO III
Joe Pantano, President
Jpan15@outlook.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Associa Gulf Coast
13461 Parker Commons Blvd. Suite 101 & 102
Fort Myers, Florida 33912 277-0718 | Fax: 936-8310
TERRACE CONDO IV
William Flury, President 13021 Cross Creek Blvd., #1236 248-343-0921
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Associa Gulf Coast
13461 Parker Commons Blvd. Suite 101 & 102
Fort Myers, Florida 33912 277-0718 | Fax: 936-8310
TIMBERLINE VILLAGE I
Dennis Reiter, President 13070 White Marsh Lane #207 270-366-2176
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Gulf Coast Realty and Property Management
26711 Dublin Woods Cir. Suite 202
Bonita Springs, Florida 34125 239-325-4300
TIMBERLINE VILLAGE II
Jim Heberle, President Heberle13170@gmail.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services
11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
THE VERANDAS
c/o Frank Maranto, President 13110 Cross Creek Blvd., #309 785-4750
Fort Myers, Florida 33912
VILLAS OF CROSS CREEK I
Ted Knudsen, President 13452 Onion Creek Court 616-901-0222
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., #3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 364-4325
VILLAS
OF CROSS CREEK II
Alan Jones, President 12781 Cold Stream Drive 860-670-4862
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Coastal Association Services 1314 Cape Coral Parkway E., Suite 205 Cape Coral, Florida 33904 239-689-3080
WYLDEWOOD VILLAGE
Peter Brochhausen, President 13219 White Marsh Lane #107 253-433-0530
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966
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
Harvey LaPointe, President Common Grounds (435) 659-9805
John Castaldo, Vice President (802) 272-9493
Frank Maranto, Treasurer (239) 785-4750
Debbie Kelly, Secretary Pro Shop and Golf (703) 963-1104
Chance Chancellor, Buildings (239) 247-3627
Alan Jones, Lakes Projects (860) 670-4862
Mary Peabody, Communications (802) 598-4878
E-MAIL ADDRESSES
Members can now e-mail their request to the following departments: office@crosscreekfl.com restaurant@crosscreekfl.com proshop@crosscreekfl.com clubhouse@crosscreekfl.com
RESOURCE HUB
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.
WHO TO CALL FOR WHAT
Have a problem and/or need help?
Here’s who to call:
Medical or Fire Emergency: Call 911 Water Leak in Irrigation System: Call your own local Association officer or Management Company
Street Light Out on Cross Creek Boulevard or White Marsh Lane: Call Cross Creek Administration at 768-1166
Crime Problem: Call Lee County Sheriff at 477-1200
Need Cross Creek Information: Call Association office at 768-1166
BLUE STREAM INFORMATION FOR ALL SELLERS AND BUYERS IN CROSS CREEK
The following steps should be taken when a Cross Creek property is sold and/or purchased.
1. The original owner must call Blue Stream at (239) 963-1350 and cancel service. An agent will walk you through the process.
2.The new owner must call Blue Stream at (239) 963-1350 to order new services and installation. Any new account after the original owner will be charged a fee of approximately $75 for this service.
Thank you.
Debbie Kelly, Master Board of Directors and Fiber Optics Committee Chair
Tune in to the Cross Creek TV channel at 901.
The Blue Stream Help Line is (239) 963-1350.
Check Out Cross Creek’s Web Site:
WWW.CROSSCREEKFL.COM
BEWARE OF ALLIGATORS AND SNAKES when retrieving your ball on the banks of the lakes.
NOTICE
Please return ALL RAKES to the bunkers when finished. Thank You
DO NOT WALK, JOG OR RIDE BIKES ON THE CART PATHS.
WHEN PUTTING ON GREENS KEEP CARTS ON CART PATH.
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!
NOTICE!
Please pick up all cigar and cigarette butts! Thank you
POOL SERVICE
Did you know you may order food and drinks to be served by the pool? All you have to do is call the restaurant, give them your order and be sure to tell them you are by the pool. 768-1474.
CROSS CREEK
RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE (239) 768-1474
RESTAURANT NEWS
Nightly Specials Are Served Wednesday And Friday Only.
PLEASE DON’T FEED ALLIGATORS, BIRDS, PIGS OR ANY WILDLIFE
Report all aggressive alligator sightings to the Master Association office at 768-1166.
