Ale Tales And Lager Lore
Save The Date
Octoberfest Celebration At The Cross Creek Country Club On Saturday, Oct. 26. More Details
By Diane Bothfeld, Certified Cicerone®
To Follow!
In history, women were the brewers of beer. It went along with preparing food for the household, since it was not safe to drink the water, beer was the drink of choice. People did not understand the role of bacteria in making the water unsafe to drink, but from experience, drinking beer did not result in the sickness that water seemed to cause.
Women prepared the beer and the food. The making of bread and beer have yeast in common and the fermentation of grains, herbs and water produced a drink that was alcoholic, limiting bacteria that were making people sick. Of course, alcohol had its own adverse effects, but beers were brewed to different strengths.
One pot of grains and herbs was used multiple times to make different strength beers. Hops were not the only herb used to brew beer – lavender, juniper, bog myrtle and other herbs were used. The grains and herbs were heated with liquid, the liquid was then drained off. The first liquid drained off would make the strongest beer having the most sugars to ferment. The grains were then steeped again in water, and the second liquid was drained off. This would produce a weaker beer. The weakest beer would be produced from the third collection of liquid from the grains. These different strength beers were used for different purposes – strong beer for guests or special occasions, middle beer for working adults for
daily consumption and the weakest beer for children and adults not active in manual labor.
Women were pushed out of brewing beer around 1000 A.D. with evidence from the U.K. showing women losing out to men in brewing around 1300. Women could not own property or businesses, so as brewing became a trade with the sale of beer beyond the household, women were pushed out. There was one woman who had an enormous impact on brewing and health, Hildegard von Bingen. Hildegard von Bingen was abbess of the Benedictine Convent of Rupertsberg in Germany (near present day Frankfurt). In the early 1100s, Hildegard published several books on health including the properties of hops. She determined that hops had preservative qualities for beverages, calming, sedative effects and she wrote that barley had positive impacts on digestion. Hops were just beginning to be used in the production of beer at this time, Hildegard’s work and the power of the church pushed more brewers toward hops.
The effects of hops have been verified and it is amazing that Hildegard completed the work that she did in the 1100s. Many women could not read let alone write, were not encouraged to do “scientific investigation” or to provide information on health to men. Hooray for Hildegard von Bingen for her pioneering work in 1100! She had a hand in making beer what it is today.
Of course, now it is usually safe to drink water from the tap and beer is now for social consumption. The craft beer revolution took off in the 1980s and women took part. Women are again involved in brewing beer, but there are few women-only owned and operated businesses.
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.
Calling All Cross Creek Crafters!
Are you a seamstress, a woodworker, a quilter, a metalsmith, a potter, a maker of salves, soaps or lotions, a photographer, artist or any other type of creative person? We invite you to consider selling your creations at the first ever Cross Creek Craft Fair & Market!
• When: Sunday, Nov. 17. The market will be open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Where: Cross Creek Clubhouse
• Details: 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!
Crossword Puzzle
Word Scramble
By Ellie Neal Nithggini
Woonsstrm Anir Doonrat
Etesl Obnriaw Hcrueirha Ccoyeln
Duhnret Dcolyu Liha Wson
Word Scramble Solution on page 6
Sudoku Puzzle
Illustrating 39. Drive crazy
Voting
Start By Registering To Vote
Each of Florida’s 67 counties has a Supervisor of Elections. This is an elected official that manages the elections for that county. If you are just beginning the voting process, Google Supervisor of Elections and the name of your county (i.e. “Supervisor of Elections Lee County”). You can find out how to register to vote (or confirm that you are already registered) and you can find out how to request a mail-in ballot on this website.
Musical genre
Gentle touch
Daddy 45. Engaged 48. Angry outburst
“Oh dear!” 50. Cartoon bear 53. Regret
55. Compete
Crossword Solution on page 6
In Florida, the deadline to register to vote in the General Election on Nov. 5 is Monday, Oct. 7 (registertovoteflorida. gov/home).
If you would like to request a mail-in ballot in Florida, vote-by-mail ballot requests must be received by 5 p.m. on the Thursday 12 days prior to the election (Florida Statute 101.62). This date is Thursday, Oct. 24. An easy place to start out if you are completely flummoxed is the National Association of Secretaries of State webpage titled Can I Vote (nass.org/can-I-vote). Good luck!
Consumer Alert
Scammers Impersonate Airline Customer Service
Representatives
By Alvaro Puig, Consumer Education Specialist
Most people can probably agree that there are few things more frustrating than airline delays or cancellations that leave you stranded at the airport. Whether the issues are the result of an unprecedented event like the Crowdstrike glitch that grounded thousands of flights worldwide, or more common disturbances like weather delays, desperate travelers often turn to social media for help from the airlines. Opportunistic scammers know this, and they’re lurking behind fake accounts trying to steal travelers’ information. Scammers crawl social media looking for posts from upset travelers. They reach out to them through
fake social media accounts and pretend to be an airline customer service representative who’s there to help. The scammers ask passengers for a slew of information, like their booking confirmation number, phone number or bank account. Or they send passengers to a spoofed site that harvests their personal information and use it to steal the passenger’s identity or rack up charges on their accounts.
If you’re dealing with travel troubles, here’s how to avoid getting re-routed to an airline impersonator:
• Log in to your airline account and contact customer service through the airline’s official app, website, chat or phone number.
• If you’re at the airport, speak to a customer service representative in person.
• If you reach out through social media, find the airline’s official social media page on their website. Look for a verification symbol or badge. And never give out personal information on social media.
If someone stole your personal information, go to IdentityTheft.gov to report it and get recovery steps. And report imposters to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Visit FlightRights.gov to learn about the airline passenger protections you are entitled to, or to file a complaint with the Department of Transportation (DOT) if an airline is not treating you fairly.
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno
Shopping Center/Mall Safety Tips
Malls and shopping centers are excellent places to make purchases of all kinds and, as a result, these locations tend to be well populated and teeming with activity.
Shoppers migrate from store to store, occasionally stopping to eat or for a cup of coffee, and all too often pay little attention to the people around them and/or their surroundings.
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Authentic Atocha Treasure Coins
Sealife by Congress™ Collections Giving Back Collection Home of the Birthshell™
For more than 40 years, Congress Jewelers has been celebrating life’s special moments while creating memories that last a lifetime.
Shopping with young children complicates matters as we must closely monitor their whereabouts and behaviors despite carrying packages, trying on clothing, navigating the mall, etc.
A number of my previous “Safety & Security Tips” address “situational awareness” and today’s message will, once again, remind residents and guests of the importance of understanding your surroundings, familiarizing yourself with potential hazards and being in a position to effectively respond in the event of an emergency. Walk confidently while demonstrating that you are paying attention to your environment. Distractions, such as smartphones, may send a message that you are not paying attention. Would be wrongdoers attempt to operate covertly and target unsuspecting victims. By constantly monitoring the people in your vicinity and that which is going on around you, you dramatically reduce the likelihood that you will be caught off-guard.
Try to avoid overburdening yourself with too many packages or large packages that are difficult to carry. Additionally, keep all of your bags and purchases within your site.
Never display large sums of cash and, other than while making payment at the register, avoid handling cash in public.
Those carrying handbags, purses and similar items should consider carrying/wearing them “cross-body” with the clasp or flap facing your body.
It is critical to remember where you parked and, when returning to your vehicle, have your keys/key fob in your hand. Many of us enjoy the shopping experience, the activity and bustle at the mall and the interesting people that we encounter. It is, however, incumbent upon shoppers to remain attentive and to reduce the likelihood of victimization.
Be alert! Be safe! The Bell Tower
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun
By Brenda Sarna
Ladies, if golf is your game, come out and play for the love of it and have fun, too!
Creek Women’s 18 Hole Golf League (CCW18) is always welcome new friends. We play for fun and prizes at 8 a.m. on Wednesday during season; then, many players stay for a golfer’s lunch and social in the Cross Creek restaurant.
Dues for league play are $55, including handicap fee, and a handicap is required for league play. The 2024/25 season begins Nov. 6.
Sign up in the Pro Shop by Monday, Nov. 4, to allow the Golf Pro time to set fabulous foursomes for fun!
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.
Card News
Bridge Winners
By Frank Maranto
July 1
Paula Maranto and Julie Becknell 5950
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 4050
July 8
No Bridge
July 15
Frank Maranto and Carol Richardson 3010
Paula Maranto and Nancy Kuehl 2470
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 2110
July 22
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 4210
Frank Maranto and Carol Richardson 3660
July 29
Frank Maranto and Nancy Kuehl 3630
Jim Zernzach and Marty Lydecker 3070
Paula Maranto and Sharon Anglavar 2420
Pinochle Winners
By Bev Applegate
July 1
Bev Applegate 671
Lori Bohan 641
Mary Lou Lydecker 622
July 8
Marty Lydecker 670
Don Applegate 598
Jan Klaus 588
July 15
Mary Lou Lydecker 736
Lori Bohan 721
Jan Klaus 705
Corky Tannehill 682
July 22
Jan Klaus 733
Corky Tannehill 650
Bev Applegate 645
July 29
Joe Spinelli 683
Jan Klaus 654
Bev Applegate 603
Downtown Fort Myers In September
Art Walk
Sept. 6, 5 To 9 p.m.
Join us for September Art Walk! You’ll find local vendors, crafters and artists demonstrating and selling their unique works of art from a wide variety of mediums.
Music Walk
Sept. 20, 6 To 10 p.m.
The streets of downtown Fort Myers come alive for a one-night-only concert showcasing musicians of all talent levels and a variety of styles! Free to attend! Fun for all ages.
For information contact Lauri Langone, (239) 3135129, llangone@rdafortmyers.com.
National Grandparents’ Day
Sunday, Sept. 8
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.,
Events At The Community House
Sanibel Community Association
Shell Crafters – The Originals
Date: Monday, Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Admission: Free admission
Observe the original Sanibel Island artists at work from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
A shell crafting class starts at 10 a.m. The class is free, just pay for supplies to create a beautiful shell flower.
Small flower supplies, $3
Large flower supplies, $4
Other beautiful items are available for purchase and priced individually. All sales benefit the operations of the nonprofit historical Community House. Your support is greatly appreciated!
Sanibel Hearts Club
Date: Friday, Sept. 6, 13, 20, and 27
Time: 12 to 3 p.m.
Admission: No reservations required, $5 suggested donation.
This fun card game is available to all. Beginners are always welcome!
About The Community House
Since 1927, The Community House has served as the gathering place of the islands. Many social organizations, civic groups, and clubs that first found a home here at The Community House are still here to this day. Though the Sanibel Community Association (SCA) and therefore The Community House is not part of the City of Sanibel government or properties, the city actually has its roots here; the famous referendum of 1974 that incorporated the City of Sanibel was held here. The historic Founder’s Room was also the meeting
Fort Myers YMCA To Host Annual River Nights Charity Event On Oct. 5
place for the very first City Council meetings. The Community House also hosts many large events and festivals including the Annual Shell Show and Festival. It is one of the largest and longest-running shell-related shows in the world, and it funds a large portion of SCA’s operations within the community. The Community House serves as the historical heart of the island. Any public, private, individual, or group is welcome. The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957, (239) 472-2155, info@sanibelcommunityhouse. net. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cross Creek Book Club
The Fort Myers YMCA is thrilled to announce its Annual River Nights Charity Event, taking place at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the historic Burroughs Home and Garden. This elegant evening promises to be a night to remember, featuring an open bar, delectable heavy hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions, music and dancing under the stars.
All proceeds from the River Nights Charity Event are dedicated to providing essential services to children and families in our community. These funds will support the Fort Myers YMCA’s scholarship program, ensuring that every child has access to safe, enriching after-school care, summer camp, swim lessons, sports, wellness programs, health education and more, regardless of the ability to pay.
“The Fort Myers YMCA is committed to serving the children and families in our community, providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can learn, grow and thrive,” said Suzie Starks, Fort Myers YMCA executive director. “Events like River Nights are crucial in helping us raise the necessary funds to continue offering these vital programs and services. We invite everyone to join us for a wonderful evening and support our mission.”
By participating in the River Nights Charity Event, attendees will directly contribute to the YMCA’s efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of local children and families. This event is an opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable night while supporting a cause that strengthens the community.
For more details or to purchase sponsorships and tickets, please visit River Nights Charity Event website or email Suzie Starks at Suzies@ymcaswfl.org or (239) 275-9622.
About YMCA Of Southwest Florida YMCA of Southwest Florida is a leading nonprofit strengthening Southwest Florida communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, by ensuring access to resources, relationships and opportunities for all to learn, grow and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y aims to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, Desoto, Hendry and Glades counties.
You’re Invited To Our Seventh Annual Grampy’s/RMHC SWFL Golf Tournament Fundraiser!
Proceeds Benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities® Of Southwest Florida
Friday, Dec. 13
Fiddlesticks Golf & Country Club
Join us at one of Florida’s premier private golf courses for our Seventh Annual Grampy’s/ RMHC SWFL Golf Tournament fundraiser! It will be an exciting day of golf, raffle, helicopter ball drop and more! Sponsorships and ticket sales are open. Details at rmhcswfl. org/grampys-golf. Register today!
Huge thanks to Sanibel Captiva Community Bank for being our premier sponsor again this year!
Big thanks to the rest of our current sponsors: Presenting Sponsor , Aubuchon Team; Eagle Sponsors , Golisano Children’s Hospital-Lee Health, Montes Family and Turano Bun; Putting Sponsor , Richard DeStefano Extras
• Helicopter Ball Drop: $100 per ball, only 100 balls available winner will receive a $1,000 gift card
• Pro Package: $150 per person, one mulligan, six raffle tickets
• Raffle Tickets: One ticket for $25, six tickets for $100
Below is the 2024 Summer Reading List from Elaine Newton. It is a long list 39 books she is considering for next year’s Critic’s Choice. The books for next year were announced in July and may include book(s) not on this list.
Happy reading.
Elaine Newton—Critic’s Choice
2024 Summer Reading List
Absolution by Alice McDermott
After Annie by Anna Quindlen
A Great Country by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
The Book of Love by Kelly Link
Burma Sahib by Paul Theroux
Camp Zero by Michelle Min Sterling
The Celestial Wife by Leslie Howard
Day by Michael Cunningham
Eastbound by Maylis de Kerangal
The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo
First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
Good Material by Dolly Alderton
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
Hester by Laurie Lico Albanese
The House of Doors by Tan Twan Eng
The House on Biscayne Bay by Chanel Cleeton
The Hunter by Tana French
Ilium by Lea Carpenter
James by Percival Everett
Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward
Long Island by Colm Tóibín
Loved and Missed by Susie Boyt
Lucky by Jane Smiley
Magic Lessons by Alice Hoffman
The Maniac by Benjamín Labatut
Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar
Mercury by Amy Jo Burns
North Woods by Daniel Mason
Poor Deer by Claire Oshetsky
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Table for Two by Amor Towles (short stories)
This Other Eden by Paul Harding
The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan
The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff
Wandering Stars by Tommy Orange
The Women by Kristin Hannah
Please note: The books to be discussed during the 2024/25 Critic’s Choice series were announced in July and may include books not on this list.
Notice!
Please pick up all cigar and cigarette butts! Thank you.
Catch The Action
September On The Water
By Capt. Bill Russell
September brings some of the best fishing of the year and is often overlooked in Southwest Florida. With school back in session, summer vacations over, and our northern friends out of state, this may be the time you will find the least number of anglers and boats on the water.
With temperatures gradually cooling over the month and thunderstorms tapering off, days become more predictable and enjoyable. Of course, this is the height of hurricane season so that can change suddenly. Fish are more active throughout the day as water temperatures are cooling down ever so slightly. Snook gradually exit the beaches and Gulf passes where they spend the summer months and begin to transition back inshore. Fish for snook around oyster bars, shorelines, sand holes, and structures such as riprap, docks, piers and bridges. Top water lures are a good choice over the early morning and evening hours. There’s not much better than watching a big lunker snook explode on a top water bait. Live bait is the best bet during daytime hours. A variety including pinfish, pigfish, pilchards, thread herring, small mullet and live shrimp are popular.
We are stepping into the best redfish (red drum) fishing of the year, especially if you like to hunt and target big redfish. Reds begin to travel in schools throughout the inshore waters where it’s possible to cross paths with several hundred in a tight pack herding bait across the flats. Keep an eye open for a disturbance on the water, it almost looks like a boat wake with no boats around to create the wake. The schooling fish are generally traveling a direction parallel to an island or long bar. Once you figure the direction they are heading try to get well ahead of their path as quietly as possible, get in position and get ready. Often, they are moving faster than you think, a couple hundred yards is a good starting point. While schooling they will eat most anything, but it’s in your favor to rig with something you can throw a long distance as they do not always follow your anticipated path. A few baits that come to mind are mid to large top water plugs, spoons, and cut ladyfish or mullet steaks. Most schooling fish measure
27 inches and above. If fishing with live or natural bait, circle hooks are the way to go. Traveling in schools redfish are competing for food and suck down bait pretty quickly. The use of circle hooks reduces the chance of gut-hooking and allows for a healthy release.
Sea trout are moving back into shallower water to feed; this is a great time to work a top water plug across your favorite trout flats. Plenty of sea trout will be caught under the endless schools of baitfish, look for birds and surface activity. Trout fishing gets better, and fish get bigger as the water continues to cool over the month.
Spanish mackerel, sharks, snapper, jack crevalle, bluefish, pompano, permit, tripletail, tarpon, cobia and others are on the list of what we may expect to hook into over the upcoming months.
Inshore mangrove snapper fishing was good through the summer and should continue into September. Snapper school up around some type of structure that could include bridge pilings, docks, piers, oyster bars, creeks, mangroves shorelines, bar edges, or any type of man-made or natural structure. Offshore, they are over artificial reefs and limestone ledges. Scale down your tackle with a light fluorocarbon leader of 20 pounds or lighter and small hooks. Best baits include shrimp (live or dead), small pilchards or pinfish, and a variety of cut baits. Chumming is a great option to attract snapper and get them fired up. Snapper are one of our best tasting fish.
Sharks of all sizes are roaming the inshore and offshore waters. They commonly show up while catching other fish and often take your hooked fish during the fight. Sharks offer a great option for a fun and hard fighting fish. A chunk of fresh meat from a ladyfish, jack crevalle, mullet, or bonito gets their attention. Make sure and use a couple of feet of wire leader, braid or single strand. Tarpon aren’t in the big schools like a few months ago but are around
Montage
Sudoku Puzzle Solution from page 2
Crossword Solution from page 2
and may appear anywhere inshore and nearshore. Tarpon can be finicky, the best time to hook one is early morning and late afternoon into the night. Offshore, after a hot summer, water temperatures begin dropping bringing fish closer to shore in shallower depths. Plus, pelagic species begin moving down the coast. Gag grouper season reopens in September while red grouper remains closed. American red snapper season has open days on and off through September. Make sure and check current seasons before heading offshore. Artificial reefs that dot our coast, along with hard bottom and ledges in 30- to 70-foot depths are great locations to catch a variety of different fish from small to large. 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 and seasons with pictures to help identify fish.
It will not be long before tourist season is upon us with roads and waterways becoming crowded. That’s not the case for September; if you want to spend time fishing or just on the water without a crowd, this is the month. Season will be here soon!
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 28 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.”
Women’s Club
The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We meet on the fourth Thursday of each month at The Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club (community entry off McGregor Boulevard between Cypress Lake Drive and College Parkway). Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. with a short social period, followed by lunch at noon and 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, Sept. 26. Our speaker will be Carolyn Sudol, a local shell expert. Carolyn shares lots of information about various shells and utilizes her great sense of humor to keep the audience engaged in her lecture. The luncheon fee is $28, and you always have a choice between either a regular menu entree or a vegan/plantbased entree.
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) 703-7787. The reservation cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, Sept. 19.
Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
Island Hopper SingerSongwriter ACMA Showcase
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 25
Time: 6:30 p.m. Cocktails, 7:30 p.m. Concert
Location: SBDAC’s Grand Atrium
Cost: General admission, $10; week of concert, $15
General admission is firstcome, first-served seating. Call Box Office for more information (239) 333-1933.
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.
August 16 - September 21
In a blend of suspense and humor, the renowned Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, crafts a captivating murder mystery. At a secluded countryside guesthouse, seven strangers find themselves snowed in. Their predicament takes a chilling turn when a police sergeant arrives on skis, revealing there’s a killer among them. As suspicion mounts, each guest unveils their murky past, adding layers of intrigue to unfolding drama.
September 27 - November 9
Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, CHICAGO is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover. Desperate to avoid conviction, she dupes the public, the media and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly, by hiring Chicago’s slickest lawyer to transform her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines. Hear favorites All That Jazz, Cell Block Tango, Razzle Dazzle, Roxie and more! Don’t miss the longest-running American musical in Broadway history!
Dates may be subject to change.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is excited to once again present some of the best local songwriters as part of this year’s Island Hopper Showcase. All artists are members of the Americana Community Music Association (ACMC), a Fort Myers-based nonprofit that promotes year-round original music.
Bios
Bill Metts started singing and playing guitar during the Country Blues revival of the 1960s and fell in love with the art of finger-style guitar. He has performed at the prestigious Mississippi John Hurt Blues Festival; the world-famous “Ground Zero” in Clarksdale, Miss.; the Will McLean Festival in Brooksville, Fla.; and numerous times in the BMI-sponsored Island Hopper Songwriter Festival. For four years, he hosted the weekly Songwriter Circle at the Americana Community Music Association located in Fort Myers, Fla. Though he occasionally will do selected covers, originals are his preference.
Robert Bidney is a singer-songwriter whose messages are as strong as his melodies. A seasoned performer, Bidney connects with his audiences through his infectious energy and emotional performances. He has recorded three studio albums to date. An eclectic array of artists around the world have covered his songs, and he’s credited with a number of national radio and TV jingles. Thank Goodness, Bidney’s third album, was among the 50 most-played albums on folk radio upon its release in 2023. Bidney was a winner in the 2023 first annual “Music for Humanity” songwriting contest and was a finalist in the 2023 International Acoustic Music Awards. Bidney’s work has been praised by Ben Fong-Torres of Rolling Stone, Lee Zimmerman of Goldmine Magazine, and Jon Stein of WTBQ 93.5 FM in New York, among others.
Roy Schneider, founding member of the Americana duo Reckless Saints, has been performing his original music throughout the United States and abroad for the past two decades. His songs have thrice made him a NewFolk Finalist at the Kerrville Folk Festival (Texas), a contestant on NBC’s The Voice – Season 5, and placed him in the Telluride Acoustic Blues competition (Colorado). No Depression called him “a songwriter in the grandest tradition of Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams, Guy Clark, and Lyle Lovett, but with a voice, songwriting skill, stagecraft and instrumental talent all his own.” In April 2023, Roy and Reckless Saints partner, Kim Mayfield, released a new album titled Blue Twangled Folk’n’ Roll, and are currently making preparations for a new live-in-studio record for 2025.
Karen Cohen ’s eclectic guitar playing will perk up your ears, while her singing and songwriting will dovetail your heart. Her voice captures the emotional essence of her songs and resonates with our own personal experience. Her writing is full of imagery, and her melodies are as diverse as the stories behind the songs.
Karen’s roots run deep in pre-war fingerstyle blues, ’60s and ’70s folk music, and she has an affinity for women guitar players of those eras. She will have you leaning in! Karen lives in Punta Gorda, Fla. She is currently performing at multiple folk festivals around Florida, ACMA events, and community showcases.
Bruce Gallant has been writing songs for over 40 years, using them as a journal to reflect the different times in his life. “I started writing songs in my late 20s and have never stopped. Anything of importance in my life is in one of my songs. Writing is essential for my survival.” Bruce is also on the board of the Americana Community Music Association and hosts the weekly Singer-Songwriting Circle.
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 wordsmithextraordinaire!
• 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!