AUGUST 2025
FEATURE PHOTO: NEW PLANTINGS ON COUNTRY CREEK DRIVE
A Look Inside
From the Master Board
RESERVES
If you’ve attended recent Master Board meetings or listened to the recordings, you may have heard conversation, motions, and questions about the Reserve Fund. Do you know why VCC maintains a reserve fund?
HOA communities in Florida are required to reserve funds for major repairs, maintenance, and replacement of common elements. It is
essentially a dedicated bank account used to store the association’s savings. This is important to community members because these reserves help to offset and plan for such projects, thereby reducing the need for unplanned assessments.
What is the purpose of a Reserve Study?
A reserve study is an essential tool communities use to help plan for future repairs and renovations and provide funds for
unexpected repairs that may become needed. The reserve study helps to understand approximately how much will be needed and when to replace, repair or renovate the assets of the community.
A reserve study will include a comprehensive review of a community’s common elements (roads, amenities, roofs, etc.) and an assessment of the physical condition to estimate their remaining useful life and potential cost associated with their repair or replacement.
A financial analysis is also conducted. It examines the current reserve balance and develops a plan to ensure that adequate funds are collected over time to cover future expenses.
Reserve studies provide a roadmap for future capital expenses, helping HOAs avoid or limit financial burdens such as special assessments or borrowing when unexpected repairs arise. By understanding the condition of community
assets and the associated costs, the Master Board can make informed decisions about maintenance and improvements driven by data. Regularly updating the community regarding the status of reserve funds and future needs fosters trust among homeowners.
Reserve studies provide a roadmap for future capital expenses, helping HOAs avoid or limit financial burdens...
enhances the reserve study by providing management of reserve funding information to our Finance Committee. It will allow the Board and Facilities and Finance Committees to forecast
This is why the Master Board is excited to share news of a new software program, called UPlanIt (U Plan It). UPlanIt is a powerful interactive tool that (continued on page 4)
All
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Tom English
Margo Williams
Laura Berrio
Bret McCormick
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Justein Matthias
Anissa Stender
Webmaster
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
funding needs and plan for short- and long-term repairs and projects. The software also allows us to update the useful life of an asset so it can be pushed out to its next expected repair/
replacement
Soon VCC will begin
with the UPlanIt
to further develop and manage the plan for reserves for VCC. You may review the 2025 Reserve Study at this link.
Common Grounds Committee
BJ SNYDER
NORFOLK ISLAND PINES
Norfolk Island Pines – we are all familiar with them.
They look so cute in our local garden center shops; they’re adorable in our homes and on our lanais—in a pot; they’re relatively inexpensive, providing a nice alternative to an expensive Christmas tree. But, did you know that those adorable trees, when planted outside in the ground:
• Are very fast growing, growing approximately 2’ per year and can reach heights of 80’–100’.
• Are a magnet for lightning strikes.
• Have shallow root systems and as a result will blow over easily during windstorms or during heavy wet weather, which can bring down power lines or damage property.
• As they age, the branches become brittle and break easily. During wind storms those brittle branches can become flying projectiles.
• When they need to be removed from your property, the removal cost can be quite expensive (current estimate, as of 2025, ranges between $2000–$3500 depending upon the tree’s height).
To combat the many concerns associated with Norfolk Island Pines that are planted outside in the ground, VCC Common Grounds Committee requests that you do not plant these trees. If your property already has a Norfolk Island Pine planted on it, we suggest that you have it removed for your safety as well as the safety of our other residents.
Just a reminder, residents may not plant any trees, shrubs, plants, etc. on any Common Grounds property. All plantings on and maintenance of our Common Grounds areas are handled solely by the Common Grounds Committee.
VCC Showcase
LOIS CHRISTENSEN
WES GRUBE
There is a veritable art gallery in Wes Grube’s home. Nearly every wall displays his framed artwork, and the effect is nothing less than splendid. Wes is a retired engineer who moved to Florida in 1999. He’s a sailboat enthusiast and has carried on his love of water environments by working for the past 20 years with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida. He was also on the VCC Common Grounds Committee for a number of years and is now the most recent Master Board member. He’s also a regular at the Center for the Arts in Bonita Springs.
Prior to moving to Florida, he had a studio in the Art Sanctuary in Martinsville, Indiana, and artist’s colony in an old church. He now has a studio in his home on Coachhouse Lane, and it’s full of more of his work. Wes works his artistry in dry pastel which is ground pure pigment of intense and rich color that has been combined with a binder and formed into a cylindrical stick. Typically, it’s very soft and fragile. It looks like chalk, but is actually very different. Dry pastel can be applied to paper or mat board and can be easily blended by using one’s fingers or any number of blending tools. Pastel can be applied to cover a large area quickly which is why Wes likes to work with that medium.
WES IN HIS HOME STUDIO
Wes has no formal training in art. In fact, as an engineer, he was used to drawing straight lines. He originally started drawing with charcoal portrait sketches of his friends and moved to pastel in 2000. He favors landscapes but has a wide range of other subjects as well.
(VCC Showcase continued on page 10)
MARY GRACE
Painting with watercolor is one of the most difficult art techniques to master, but Mary Grace takes it all in stride and loves it. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Mary has lived in the Villages at Country Creek since 2004 and has spent the last 34 years summering on Cape Cod. Her home is on Blacksmith Forge. She met her husband when they were in their 20s. Interestingly, when they met, she discovered that for all the years prior to their meeting, he actually had lived right around the corner. Mary is a retired nurse who worked primarily with an oncologist and an allergist.
Her artwork began with the use of acrylic paint which is a thick, water-based, quick-drying pigment material. Watercolor, though obviously water-based, can be light or intense depending on how much water is used. It can be applied either directly to dry paper or dispersed on wet paper. The trick is to control the water, and it’s not easy. The photos show examples of her talent in using this art medium.
MARY GRACE
In Memoriam
JUERGEN MOLSEN
Country Creek has lost a long-time resident of 28 years, Juergen Molsen. He passed away unexpectedly on June 28, 2025 in Germany at the age of 89. Juergen was a native German who served in the German Army from 1957-1993. Before retiring as a Brigadier General, he traveled extensively throughout the U.S. with his wife. After visiting many states, they chose to buy in Florida, precisely in Country Creek in 1997.
His beautiful and vivacious wife Gisela sadly passed away in 2017. He is survived by their daughter Stefanie, son-in-law Jorg, grandson Nick and 2 brothers and sisters-inlaw in Germany. Juergen had a whole family of friends in Germany as well as in Country Creek. He loved Florida, Country Creek, and
the warmth of the sun. He was a beach goer, the “tan man.” He reveled in many sunsets on the beach with friends.
Juergen was a Legend in the Country Creek tennis family and tennis leagues. He even still participated successfully in match plays at age 89! His other sporting passions were golf, pickleball, and biking. Maybe you saw him pedaling daily at a fast pace 3x around Country Creek Drive. Not surprisingly he was an avid and faithful fan of FGCU sports: tennis, volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball. A true blue & green fan!
Juergen regularly attended opera performances shown at the local movie theatres. Outdoor concerts were also a must to experience the beautiful weather with the beautiful music. But…what he talked about most were all the good people in Country Creek. He loved Life and Life loved Juergen. We will truly miss this vibrant, versatile man.
PATRICK GABRIEL
Patrick Gabriel, 79, of 9906 Calico Court, died unexpectedly on June 19, 2025, in Iowa. He is survived by his wife, Mary. They have three children and three grandsons. Pat was a member of the men’s golf league for many years.
Wii Bowling
The 2025 Summer Wii Bowling continues every Wednesday and will continue through Wednesday, August 27. Wii Bowling times are 5:00, 5:30 and 6:00. The sign-up sheets are in the Clubhouse Lobby. The cost is $2 a person per game.
Our summer bowling has been very successful with many residents enjoying some great summer fun! There were several residents new to Wii Bowling that came to try their skills.
Join in the fun and stay for a delicious dinner special!
Save The Date
The VCC Annual Holiday Boutique is scheduled for Monday, November 3, 2025 in the Clubhouse dining room. This spectacular event, sponsored by the KnitWits, features a broad array of handmade items created by talented VCC crafters. The dining room is transformed into a holiday marketplace that is filled
NOV. 3
with a plethora of Christmas ornaments, home goods, personal accessories, and so much more. It is a wonderful place in which to buy items for holiday gifts or for yourself. Put this date on your calendar –you won’t want to miss it!
VCC History – More Improvements but Slow Residential and Commercial Growth – 2008
By the end of 2007, twenty years after the opening of the Villages at Country Creek in 1987, major remodeling of the clubhouse and renovation of the golf course were completed and operating at full speed. Both gave a new look to the community and were enjoyed by residents and the public alike. However, more improvements were in store for 2008.
The new year plans for 2008 included erecting a 300,000-gallon water tank to hold effluent from the county to water the golf course. A green tank and landscaping were designed to make the tank less visible to the neighborhood on Country Barn Drive. A small assessment for residents would make it all possible, but a portion of that money was returned to residents after a grant of $247,000 was received from the South
Florida Water Management Department (SWFWMD).
A green tank and landscaping were designed to make the tank less visible to the neighborhood on Country Barn Drive.
Also that year, a new gate at the Three Oaks entrance was approved and completed in October, helping to reduce public traffic on community streets; however, community security continued to be a topic of discussion.
In 2008, Penny Monaghan left employment in the clubhouse, and Bill Wright was hired as food and beverage manager. Richard Montoya was executive chef. Lynn Danko, a retired travel director, came on board to assist the Social Activities Committee. She
and Barbara Litzen, chairman of the committee, worked together in planning great trips and entertainment for the community. Ione Talmo was the new volunteer manager of Channel 95, CCTV.
On the golf course, the Ladies’ League champ for the year was Judy Brown, and the Men’s league champ was Ron Marks. The Men’s Club champion for 2008 was Rob Rattimer, and the Ladies’ Club champion was Pat Immonen.
It was Bob Nelson’s last year as president of the Master Board. He served well, calmly overseeing some of the busiest years for the board. In spring, Ron Reichert took over the presidency. Jerry Desmond was vice president, and Jackie Yndestad was secretary. Other members of the board were Gary
Miller, John Beleutz, and Dan Cermack. Bob Lockard, treasurer of the Master Board for five years, resigned. Dave Imonen was appointed to take his place.
In the greater Estero community, there were major issues affecting Country Creek and Lee County: roads, mining, water sources, growing development, and a new hospital in south Lee County. There was a study to consolidate Estero and San Carlos Fire and Rescue.
Arnie Rosenthal represented VCC at Estero Council of Community Leaders (ECCL) to keep the residents aware of these issues and to offer the viewpoint of the community.
Among those planned for completion in Fall 2008 was Estero’s new post office, under construction along the east side of Three Oaks Parkway just north of Corkscrew Road. This 4,000-square-foot facility would house the Post
Office’s retail operations for Estero. The existing Post Office facility on east Broadway would continue to operate in a different capacity.
The downward trend in new housing construction in Estero that began in the Spring of 2006 continued in 2008. During 2008 Estero’s new housing permits declined by about 62% from 2007, numbering 167
(continued on page 16)
compared to 432 in 2007 and compared to a record 2833 permits in 2005.
However, this slowdown provided the Estero housing market the time to absorb much of its unsold or vacant homes. An October 2008 study of the resale-attached housing market showed only 316 units for resale in Estero. In addition, the number of 2008 closings in Estero increased 72% over 2007. In fact, Estero may have been the best real estate market in Lee County.
Although residential property values declined in Estero since 2006 as they did throughout Florida and the entire country, the October Resale-Attached Housing Study indicated that Estero’s “sales price to asking
price” ratio actually improved in 2008. It appeared that in 2008 the Estero housing demand and supply were almost back in equilibrium.
However, Estero’s commercial development during 2008 was Estero’s third lowest during the previous nine years, exceeding only 2002 and 2003. Even though Estero’s commercial development slowed considerably, many commercially zoned properties along U.S. 41 and Corkscrew Road were cleared, the sites prepared, and the designs approved by the Estero Design Review committee in anticipation of an improved economy. The properties remain in this condition today.
Anhinga or Cormorant
Anhingas and cormorants are both large black aquatic birds often confused for each other, but they have distinct differences. They are similar in size (somewhat smaller than a goose) with wingspans from 3.7 to 5 feet, the cormorant having the larger wingspan. Anhingas are known for their long, slender necks and pointed bills, while cormorants have shorter, thicker necks and hooked bills. Anhingas often swim with their bodies submerged under the water. The anhinga stretches its head and neck out of the surface of the water. When its head and neck are stretched out, it looks like a snake is gliding through the water, hence the nickname “snakebird.” Cormorants, on the other hand, though their bodies are heavy, swim with their bodies more above the water, like a duck.
Male anhingas have grayish-black feathers with a greenish shine to them with the upper body spotted or streaked with white. The female has a tan head, neck, and chest, and black stomach. The anhinga has poorly developed oil glands, and its feathers aren’t as waterproof as the feathers of other water birds. It perches in a tree with its wings open to dry its feathers and warm its body.
Using its sharp bill, the anhinga spears fish, flips them in the air, and swallows them head-first! Sometimes, the anhinga spears a fish so hard that it has to return to shore with the fish still stuck on its bill. The anhinga bangs the fish against a rock to get it off its bill.
(continued on page 18)
WING SPAN
In flight, they soar high in the sky, using thermals like raptors. Anhingas are plentiful in freshwater habitats like lakes, rivers, and swamps. Anhingas are year-round residents of Florida. Cormorants migrate.
The cormorant is a large, dark-colored bird with a long neck and a hooked bill. Adults have a distinctive bright orange patch of skin around the face and brilliant blue eyes. Their neck is shorter and thicker than an anhinga. They are typically dark all over, often with a yellowish gular pouch—a specialized expandable area of skin found on the throat.
Cormorants inhabit both marine and inland waters throughout Florida and swim with more of their body above the water, like a duck. They are well known as fish-eaters, although they also readily consume other small animals. Using its strong bill the cormorant grabs fish and swallows them whole. Cormorants are social birds and can often be seen on open water in flotillas of a dozen or more.
CORMORANT
In flight, they flap their wings rapidly when flying low over the water and sometimes can be seen flying with others in a loose “V” formation. In certain areas they may be seen perching on utility wires or small branches.
Using its strong bill the cormorant grabs fish and swallows them whole.
Notes: Cornell Lab All About Birds, Natureworks, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Healthy Corner
Village of Estero Corner
THE
LATEST NEWS ON THE EXPANSION OF I-75 FROM 6 LANES TO 10 THROUGH ESTERO .
The Engage Estero executive management team would like to thank the 146 residents who provided their details at the end of the article on this topic that was published in June. Ref: https://esterotoday.com/i-75 – add your voice!
The list has been sent with a covering note to Mayor Joanne Ribble, David Willems, Estero’s Public Works Director, and Nicole Harris, Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Southwest ConnectTM Project Manager. Both Mayor Ribble and David Willems have expressed their concerns and empathy with the concerns of the public and have indicated that they will express the Village’s concern to FDOT.
In the meantime, Allan Bowditch, President of Engage Estero has received a reply from Nicole Harris encouraging those who have concerns to attend the public meeting on August 14 (see details in Nicole’s response below.
“Thank you for compiling and forwarding the list of residents who have expressed concerns regarding potential noise impacts from the I-75 widening.
As part of the ongoing Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for the I-75 South Corridor, from Golden Gate Parkway to Corkscrew Road, FDOT is conducting a comprehensive traffic noise analysis in accordance with federal and state guidelines. This includes evaluating existing conditions and predicting future noise levels under the proposed improvements to determine whether noise barriers are warranted, feasible, and reasonable. Public Works Director
Preliminary results of the noise study will be shared at the upcoming Public Hearing on August 14, 2025, Open House at 4:30 p.m.; Formal Presentation at 6:00 p.m., at North Collier Regional Park, and materials will be posted online in advance at: www.swflinterstates.com/ i75-south-corridor/452544-1”
THE
COMMUNITY AND MEMBER MEETING COVERING “DEVELOPMENTS IN ESTERO AND TITLE FRAUD” ON SEPTEMBER 26
This “not to be missed” meeting will be held at the Estero Recreation Center on Friday, September 26 at 10 a.m. The location is 9285 Corkscrew Palms Blvd. (inside the Estero Community Park), Estero, FL 33928.
Mary Gibbs, the Estero Community Development Director, will discuss the difficulties that the Village’s PZDB has to face
when balancing the demands of developers and, on occasion, their legal threats with those of the Village code and residents’ concerns. She will also address some of the larger developments that are underway or about to start, and what they will eventually look like.
Clerk Karnes, Lee County’s Clerk of the Court & Comptroller, will discuss the issue of Title fraud. It is a scam that involves criminals stealing your home, then borrowing against it or selling it behind your back.
PLEASE PUT THE DATE IN YOUR CALENDAR
(continued on page 22)
REVOLUTIONIZING HEALTHCARE: WHY THE INTERNET OF MEDICAL THINGS (IOMT) WILL SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE DELIVERY AND PATIENT OUTCOMES
.
If you haven’t yet seen this recently communicated article you might like to review the details on our website at www.esterotoday.com.
Medical and wearable devices, sensors, and other healthcare technologies integrated with cloud systems (referred to as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)) have the potential to revolutionize healthcare by improving both care delivery and patient outcomes.
The aging population in the USA is already increasing the demands on an already stretched physician workforce. Additionally, the projected decline in the number of physicians and nurses per capita over the next few years is expected to increase demand further. The introduction of IoMT and its components, such as medical and wearable devices, sensors, and other healthcare technologies integrated with cloud systems, will be crucial in helping to offset the potential decline in healthcare quality forecasted. The real potential lies in its ability to reshape healthcare, making it more proactive, precise, and accessible for all. But the question remains, will this be enough to offset the declining numbers of doctors and nurses?
JUST FOR LAUGHS...
This is a true account recorded in the Police Log of Sarasota, Florida:
An elderly Florida lady did her shopping and, upon returning to her car, found four males in
the act of leaving with her vehicle. She dropped her shopping bags and drew her handgun, proceeding to scream at the top of her lungs, “I have a gun, and I know how to use it! Get out of the car!”
The four men didn’t wait for a second threat. They got out and ran like mad.
The lady, somewhat shaken, then proceeded to load her shopping bags into the back of the car and got into the driver’s seat. She was so shaken that she could not get her key into the ignition. She tried and tried, and then she realized why. It was for the same reason she had wondered why there was a football, a Frisbee, and two 12-packs of beer in the front seat.
A few minutes later, she found her own car parked four or five spaces farther down. She loaded her bags into the car and drove to the police station to report her mistake. The sergeant to whom she told the story couldn’t stop laughing. He pointed to the other end of the counter, where four pale men were reporting a carjacking by a mad, elderly woman described as white, less than five feet tall, glasses, curly white hair, and carrying a large handgun.
No charges were filed.
Moral of the story?
If you’re going to have a senior moment … make it memorable!
Cook’s Corner
JUDY LIESKE
TOMATO POTATO SALAD
INGREDIENTS:
2 pounds small Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes Kosher salt
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup white wine vinegar Freshly ground pepper
2 pounds beefsteak tomatoes, chopped 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
DIRECTIONS:
1. Place the potatoes in a large pot; cover with water by 2 inches. Season generously with salt and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes; let cool for 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Whisk the olive oil, vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper in a medium bowl. Halve the potatoes and transfer to a shallow bowl. Scatter the tomatoes over the potatoes, then drizzle with the vinaigrette.
I have made this adding fresh green beans blanched in hot water. Also if you want to cheat, add ½ package dry Italian dressing and ¾ cup of a bottle of Italian dressing or to taste.
GREAT SUMMER SALAD! ENJOY!
VCC Hours of Operation
Full Service will not be available on the Patio this summer. To place a food or drink order between the hours above, Wednesday – Saturday, please call (239) 947-4488, and we will gladly bring your order down to you!
Villager Staff
Editorial Staff: Lois Christensen, Susan D’Alessandro, Margaret Farmar, Jude Knisely, Judy Lieske
Contact/Submissions: VCCVillager@gmail.com
The Villager welcomes resident memoriams and article submissions describing Country Creek life. News of social and sporting activities are welcome, and accompanying photos are encouraged. The Villager does not publish articles with a religious or political theme or opinion pieces that demonstrate a particular bias.
Contacting
the
VCC Staff
Sharon Pisanchyn - gm@vccgolfclub.com
Sarah Goffar - om@vccgolfclub.com
Nichelle Siewertsen - (Interim) mrc@vccgolfclub.com
Rafael Bonilla - fbmanager@vccgolfclub.com
John Alfuth - johna@vccgolfclub.com
Kwazadine Britton - chef@vccgolfclub.com
Contacting the Master Board
vccmasterboard@vccgolfclub.com
ESTERO COMMUNITY USEFUL NUMBERS
