Welcome to a new year and all that it holds for VCC. We are excited to contribute each month to the new digital Villager to share conversations we’re having; plans we’re trying to make and actions we’re hoping to take. If you have questions or wish to comment on what is shared here, please contact us at vccmasterboard@ vccgolfclub.com
We want to thank our everdiligent staff for their extra effort with so many holiday parties and events. December was constantly abuzz with community members enjoying the clubhouse.
The patio is continuing to develop, and we hope to open very soon. There will be new furniture, an outdoor bar, and beautiful lighting. There will be a light menu and beverage offerings that we are sure you will all enjoy. Come try it out.
The back walkway has new lighting that provides a much safer and more attractive approach from our back entrance.
We are making plans to increase golf cart parking by investigating use of space on the side of the clubhouse. We know you’ll all appreciate having room for your carts. Please remember that
parking lot spaces are not for golf carts.
Our project manager has already had several meetings with our GM, our Treasurer and representatives from the Facilities Committee and the Master Board. We are moving forward with planning for the main pool and the clubhouse interior. Installing a new and larger spa, moving the shower, updating the pool cabana, and replacing the pool decking are all part of our planning. We are also investigating moving the workout room to an area behind the main pool in an expanded space that will allow us to add much needed meeting rooms
From the Golf Pro
JOHN ALFUTH, PGA, VCC GOLF PRO GLOW GOLF
Happy New Year everyone! Last month we started a new tradition, GLOW GOLF. This event was enjoyed by 90 golfers and many more residents watching in the cold from their lanais.
The golf shop hired a company, Glow Vibe Golf, to come in and set up the golf course with LED light sticks and supply the golf balls. Night golf has changed over the years, the golf balls now have impact activated LED golf balls that glow much brighter than the old golf balls where you had to insert a glow stick. The flagstick was lit up by a colorful flashing light on the top, with a bright white light illuminating 10 ft around
the hole. The golf course was shortened by a couple hundred yards, but that didn’t stop anyone from still making the ponds glow with the golf balls.
I had my wife and kids riding around with me all night; we were so appreciative of all the golfers that played as well as all the residents watching and having just as much fun.
After golf, there was a reception with appetizers and entertainment. If anyone stayed for the music, they would have been able to see my little dancing queen, Teagan, running some of her dance routines for the upcoming dance competition season.
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within the clubhouse for our ever-growing social activities. The beautiful view of the golf course may just encourage us all to take advantage of exercising.
Please keep an eye on your email as we are planning several community conversations about VCC projects. The first of these will occur in January. We hope you will attend so you can hear first-hand what is happening.
Happy 2025, everyone. Let’s make it the best year ever at VCC!
Your Master Board
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Becky Pruitt
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Accounting and Sales Support
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
www.seabreezecommunications.com
Seabreeze Communications, Inc. does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc.
I would again like to thank Rafael and his staff for running a great 35th Anniversary party to coincide with the event. Thank you all for enjoying the festivities of the evening. We WILL be doing it again next year!
LIGHT UP SHOELACES
GLOW DRINK
Committee Corner
COMMON GROUNDS COMMITTEE
PATRICIA SMOYER, CO-CHAIR
We are about ready to jump into a New Year and a new vendor for our trees. We welcome Joshua Trees, a highly respected company. They are licensed to work in and around any of the waterways; that includes the swales. They remove invasives, trim trees, clear the swales and waterways. Whenever they are here, there will be a certified arborist working alongside with the other workers.
They prune trees for many reasons; one is to ensure a strong structure. That helps a tree become more wind resistant. They trim a tree so it creates a balanced canopy. If it is unbalanced it is susceptible to breakage.
Pruning trees reduces the risk of damage during high winds, encouraging healthy growth of the branches. Pruning helps remove branches that rub against each other which can cause long-term damage. Your property value can be enhanced by well maintained trees as it enhances curb appeal. Well
maintained trees provide safety for your family and home.
Joshua Trees will be in our community starting in January. You will be able to recognize them by their brightly colored green and yellow trucks. If you need help on your own personal property, you may hire them. They have worked for many of our residents who rave about them. They also have done some excellent work for our common grounds.
If you need assistance call 239-888-6917.
Here’s a fun fact: there is such a thing as a Joshua Tree, and Joshua Tree National park is located in Southern California.
JOSHUA TREE
NEW VENDOR–JOSHUA TREES
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE (ARC) NEWS
KATHLEEN SCHAL
The Architectural Review Committee would like to introduce ourselves. My name is Kathy Schal, chair of the committee, and along with members David Boehm, Woodward Briggs, Jerry Powell and Pete Buechner, we are honored to be of service to the Villages of Country Creek.
The scope of our duties is to act as the approval authority for all present and future projects which impact the exterior appearance of all dwelling units. Our committee would like to share some helpful information with you:
1. If you are planning any outside renovation (which includes landscaping, roof, painting, windows, doors, walkways, sidewalks, lanai and patio) you must complete an ARC approval form, which can be found outside the main office door in the clubhouse.
2. If you live in a villa or condo, you must first contact your HOA president for approval prior to filling out the form.
3. Our committee believes in visiting every site and doing our best to meet each homeowner. We feel this eliminates any miscommunication, and we welcome dialog with residents. Usually we review each application that has been received on Tuesdays at 1 o’clock.
4. The following requires a building permit from the Village of Estero:
• Structural alterations or repairs
• Major renovations, including kitchen and bathroom remodels that involve changes to plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems
• Roof replacements or repairs
• Window and door replacements that involve altering the size or location of openings
• Deck or porch construction
• Installing or modifying electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems
• Swimming pool and spa installations
• Fences or retaining walls
5. When a project is complete, please send the building inspector’s approved certificate to the main office. If no building permit was required, also let the main office know so
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we can revisit your home to verify that work was completed as outlined.
6. The new paint books should be available the first week in January. If you are considering painting your house, a book will be in the clubhouse and also at the Sherwin Williams store located on Corkscrew Road at the next traffic light to the right past Lowes.
Our committee wishes each of you a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to seeing all these improvements in the new year 2025.
JUST FOR LAUGHS...
I feel like my body has gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor’s permission to join a fitness club and start exercising. I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But, by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over.
CCMGA News
RICHARD REID
The monthly CCMGA luncheon was held on December 13. The tournament was a scramble that was won by the team of Ken Crimmins, Guy Gibson, John Mowrey and Reale LeMieux with a 7 under score of 55. The second and third place teams both shot 56 with Dennis Eary, Bob DeCosta, Jim Spata and Fred Lepard besting the trio of Darko Vukojevic, Scott Jones and Joe Fox via matching cards. After golf we were treated to an excellent lunch by Rafael and his crew.
Charlie Stone and Joe Calabretta each had a hole in one. Fittingly, Charlie’s was on the tenth hole and it was his tenth hole in one. Joe had his on Nov. 27 on the fifth hole.
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT:
CHARLIE STONE, JOE CALABRETTA
Coming up in January we have the following Friday events:
• January 10 Quota Points
• January 17 Luncheon: Member/Member Memorial 666 8:30am Shotgun
• January 24 4-Man Stableford
• January 31 Men’s/Ladies Invitational Luncheon, Scramble 8:30am
Thanks to all the members who wore red to support our veterans.
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: REALE LEMIEUX, KEN CRIMMINS, GUY GIBSON AND JOHN MOWREY
Come the first of the year, be on the lookout for some local rule changes. These changes are designed to keep us more in line with the USGA guidelines, and hopefully will reduce the confusion the local rules occasionally create.
Finally, a little about me. With this addition, I will be taking over the newsletter. My wife, Mary, and I are entering our fourth season as outside members at Country Creek. We are from Windsor, Connecticut and snowbird in Bonita Springs. I retired from the IT department at the Hartford Insurance Group after 35 years.
Ravis Prueitt Tournament (2024)
DON POLULAK
The final match in this year’s Ravis Prueitt Tournament came down to the 2-man teams of Joe Riley and Charlie Stone vs Jack Spaulding and Darko Vukojevic. Congratulations to Jack and Darko on their hard fought victory, winning 2-1!!
Thanks to all the players who participated in this year’s tournament to help make it a success.
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: DARKO VUKOJEVIC AND JACK SPAULDING
CCMGA TOURNAMENT DATES & LUNCHEONS
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2025: MEMBER / MEMBER MEMORIAL AND LUNCHEON
8 AM SHOTGUN. 666 6- BEST BALL 6- SCRAMBLE, 6- ALTERNATING SHOT.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31, 2025: MENS / LADIES INVITATIONAL AND LUNCHEON
8 AM SHOTGUN SCRAMBLE
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2025: ELMER RAWSON MATCH PLAY BEGINS AND RUNS THE ENTIRE MONTH.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2025: MEETING & LUNCHEON
8 AM SCRAMBLE. RED, WHITE & BLUE
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12 & FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2025: MGA CHAMPIONSHIP.
SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 2025: (GALA)
FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025: MEETING & LUNCHEON
CCLGA News
The executive board of the CCLGA takes this opportunity to wish you a Happy New Year, and a season of great golf. Our December event, Red & Green Tees to Greens, was well attended. It was a very colorful scramble and luncheon. Our scramble winners were Lynn Polulak, Babe Poggi, and Kandi Vancura.
RED AND GREEN PARTICIPANTS
Our annual charity event this year is Blessings in a Backpack. The charity provides backpacks filled with food items for underprivileged children. It enables them to have food to eat over the weekends when not in school. For further information regarding this organization, please go to www.blessingsinabackpack.org.
Our co-chairs for this event are Lynn Polulak and Mindy Metz. The scramble/luncheon is scheduled for February 13. Notification of donations and/or gift baskets to be awarded at the luncheon may be donated via email to cclgacomm@gmail.com to the attention of Lynn Polulak.
MINDY METZ AND LYNN POLULAK, CO-CHAIRS FOR CHARITY FUNDRAISER
RED AND GREEN SCRAMBLE WINNERS LYNN POLULAK, BABE POGGI AND KANDI VANCURA
Cecilia St Arnold, executive director of SWFL chapter, Blessings in a Backpack, spoke to our members at the luncheon. She explained the purpose of the backpacks.
January has the CCLGA in full force, opening its winter season with multiple events. January 16 is our member guest day, this year with a luncheon following. The cost of the scramble/luncheon is $56 for members, and $86 for guests (non-members). The luncheon includes soup/salad bar, entrée and dessert. Sign up is via the golf genius app.
Our new members’ breakfast, welcoming our newest members, is hosted by our Parliamentarian, Lynn Polulak. The breakfast will be held on January 20 at the VCC clubhouse.
CECELIA ST ARNOLD
Tennis Notes
KRISTEN SALERNO
The tennis community at VCC is back and in full “SWING.”
Travel tennis is scheduled and played through The Bonita League.
• Monday–Men 70+ 3.0 team plays
• Tuesday–Women 3.0 team plays
• Wednesday–Women 70+ 3.0 team plays
• Thursday–Men 3.0 team plays
• Friday–Men 2.5 team plays
Social tennis continues several times a week. Sign up at the condo tennis board by Saturdays at noon for the following week. All levels are welcome.
Results are in for the men’s fall leagues. Congratulations to our league champions in our 3.0 Thursday league. Championship team members are Rocky Blaschke, Keith Cohen, Lee Eisenberg, Richard Paull, Phil Riskin, David Trout, Larry Vavrek, Tom Whelan and Ron Wicks.
Our 70+ Monday league finished tied for second with three other teams with a 4-4 record. Members of the team include Rocky Blaschke, Bob Campomizzi, Dert Delp, Lee Eisenberg, Richard Paull, Phil Riskin, Larry Vavrek, Tom Whelan and Ron Wicks.
16TH ANNUAL TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL DINNER DANCE
Save the Date and join your Country Creek tennis and pickleball friends for an evening of dining, dancing and fun on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. You will also have an opportunity to win money in our 50/50 raffles. Details to follow in the coming months.
Exciting News for Tennis Enthusiasts!
Wayne Keeler has offered to assist the VCC community with tennis lessons and drills. Wayne brings an extensive amount of tennis knowledge to us. He has been head pro at many clubs including The Naples Tennis Academy and Hidden Palms Tennis Club in Vero Beach. He is a graduate of Salem University and can be found on YouTube under “The Family Tennis Pro”.
Wayne can be contacted at 772-713-3220.
March 11
Our live music will be provided by Randy & Brad Duo playing songs from the 60’s to the present.
Registration forms will be available soon. If you have any questions, contact Kathy Kettler at 330-323-6730.
Morgan Gravlin Delray Beach Open
We have a wonderful opportunity to support professional tennis in Delray Beach.
Bocce News
PATRICIA O’CONNOR
Congratulations to Lynn Fox and her Bandettes for winning the VCC Bocce Federation fall league champs. Lynn volunteered to be captain for the fall and she and her all-ladies team rolled themselves into first place in the last game of the season. Millie Willis and the Ball Busters came in second place after leading most of the season. Bob Smith and his Banditos and Wayne Canary with the CC Eight Ballers tied for third place. Bob Smith was our most winning Bocce captain of all times at VCC. He loved bocce and his team. We will miss you Bob, but you left your team in good hands as Gene Cipriano takes over as the new Banditos captain. We would like to thank Tom Van Dwyne for being the captain of the Blazers in 2024. Tom has passed the captain’s title to Cyndy McDermott. We welcome Cyndy as a new captain and look forward to working with her for the winter season.
Our 2025 winter season is currently scheduled to start on Friday, January 17th and run
through Friday, March 21. Our annual Bocce Award Banquet will be held at our VCC Clubhouse on Friday night March 28th, starting at 5pm.
There is a bocce captains meeting to review our rules, concerns, issues, and pick our team numbers on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, starting at 2:30 in room number 2 of our clubhouse.
BOB
SMITH, VCC MOST WINNINGEST CAPTAIN
Anyone interested in joining one of the 13 teams playing in the winter season can contact Patti O’Connor at 732.859.2058 or email at buka@comcast.net.
THE BANDETTES, 2024 FALL CHAMPIONS L TO R: JOANN SMITH, VALERIE WALPOLE, CAPTAIN LYNN FOX, TRUDY BARROW TRAYNOR, PATTY AMORE VAVREK, DEB VERWAY, JUDY BINDER, MARY ANN GABRIELE, BARBARA DEVINCENZO CIPRIANO, PAT MARKS (NOT PICTURED: DENISE REID GIOVANETTI, MARY SUE PETERSON, NORMA GOEBEL)
Fashion Show November 22, 2024
LOIS CHRISTENSEN
The first fashion show of the 2024-2025 season was held on November 22. It was another “WOW” show thanks to the coordination of Bobbie Giannuzzi. Clothing from Kays on the Beach ranged from chic casual to elegant dinner wear. Those attending were treated to a lovely lunch featuring a garden salad, pork loin with Jasmine rice, and a brownie sundae for dessert. Models were Nancy Bosshard, Maureen Catalano, Linda Duffy, Susan Gross, Rene Hague, Sara Moskel, Lana Rogers, and Michelle Suarez. This
was a very upbeat affair, and the models even paraded in dance fashion at the end of the program. Lots of fun, and a 50/50 raffle too!
Thanks always to the VCC staff for their excellent service and to the residents who supported the event with their attendance.
VCC Annual Golf Cart Parade
MARGARET FARMAR
A few years ago Faith Bannister Bauer had an idea to kick off our holiday season. She invited golf cart owners to decorate and then parade throughout the village before the Luminary night block parties. Everyone loved the idea and the Golf Cart Parade was born!
Of course she got lots of feedback. “For the first two years, the participants thought the parade was too long and they missed their luminary parties. Last year, the spectators thought that it was too short. So Faith posed a question to the community on our Facebook group page: “Would the participants and spectators prefer to have this on a separate night other than Luminary night?” She suggested Sunday, December 8. All the responses were extremely positive so this year the festivities began the week before the Luminary block parties, which were held on Wednesday December 11.
Another idea Faith came up with was to organize “an after party.” All golf cart paraders were invited to gather at the clubhouse afterwards to enjoy a limited menu and some holiday cheer!
This was the first year I got to ride along and see first hand all the fun (thanks to my wonderful next door neighbors Mike and Mary). It was wonderful to see so many residents gathered on their driveways waving, cheering and enjoying the show. We had about 25 carts and traveled over every street.
Each year the number grows as does the ingenuity and creativity of the participants. Country Creek has some very talented people. Faith, you hit another homer with this event! Thanks for all your efforts.
VCC ANNUAL GOLF CART PARADE
Villages
Country Creek
In Memoriam
WILLIAM HOOGLAND
William (Bill) Hoogland passed away December 17, 2024 in his home in Country Creek surrounded by his wife Alice Hoogland and children Bill Jr, David and Patricia Doig.
Bill will be transported to Chicago for his funeral and laid to rest next to his first wife Rosalyn. He will be missed by a blended family of 7 children, 17 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren.
GEORGE JONES
George passed away in his home on November 25. He was a long-time resident of The Villages at Country Creek. (formerly lived in Bethpage, NY). Beloved partner of the late Julia Devito. Proudly
retired as a Kings Point N.Y Village Police Officer. Loving father of Kevin, Margaret, and Allison.
George will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
BRIAN EDWARD ROWAN
NOVEMBER 2, 1957 –NOVEMBER 28, 2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Brian Edward Rowan, aged 67, of Rhinecliff, NY on November 28, 2024. Born on November 2, 1957, in Burbank, California, Brian was a man of remarkable strength, dedication, and warmth. He will be deeply missed by his loving family and friends.
After graduating from Red Hook High School in 1975, Brian went on to build a successful career in construction powered by his continuous pursuit of knowledge and experience. A proud self-educator, he always strived to expand his mind and share what he learned with others.
Brian was a passionate golfer, and he loved spending his free time on the green. His love of golf was more than just a pastime; it was a reflection of his passion for life and his
strong belief that dedication could make anything better.
Brian’s greatest pride, however, was his family. He was a devoted husband of 46 years to the love of his life, Susan Rowan. As a father, Brian was unconditionally supportive and endlessly proud of his daughters, Briana (husband Matthew) and Shawna (husband Geoffrey). He cherished his role as a grandfather to five wonderful grandchildren: William, Abigail, Vivienne, George, and Luke, whose lives brought him immeasurable joy.
Brian is predeceased by his father, Francis, and his mother, Patricia, sister Carolyn and brother Thomas. He is survived by his loving wife Susan, his daughters, his cherished grandchildren, sister Mary Anne and brothers Francis and Mark as well as extended family and many dear friends.
Brian’s passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who loved him, but his memory will live on in the lives of his family and in the countless ways he made the world a better place through his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love for those around him.
ROBERT GEORGE SMITH
Robert George Smith, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher and coach, passed away peacefully in Estero, Florida on November 20, 2024 surrounded by his loved ones.
Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 31, 1939 to George and Claire (nee Leister) Smith. Robert lived a life filled with passion, dedication and love. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joann E. Smith (née Cauff), and children: Preston Smith, Vanya (Eric) Smith, Kelly Smith, and Jeffrey (Christine) Smith. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Cavan, Branson, Andrew, Matthew, Maxim, and Madyn, who will forever hold him in their hearts.
Robert’s professional life was marked by his 36 year tenure at Triton Regional High School in Runnemede, New Jersey where he was a longtime teacher and a coach. He was known for his dedication to his students and athletes, shaping countless lives through his commitment to education and sportsmanship.
A three sport athlete himself, upon leaving Lower Regional (Overbook) High School, he received a football scholarship
to Wake Forest University where he completed his undergraduate degree. He later received his masters from Trenton State College. He was inducted into four Hall of Fames in recognition of his dedication as both an athlete and coach.
A resident of South Jersey, initially Gloucester Township and then later Pitman, he was an avid Philadelphia sports fan, especially the Phillies, never missing a pitch. He enjoyed many years on Lake Wallenpaupack where he began his retirement before moving to Estero, Florida.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to all of Robert’s former players, colleagues and friends who have reached out to share memories and offer their support during this time. Your kindness and remembrances have been a source of great comfort.
A public memorial service to celebrate Robert’s life was held on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 2pm in the clubhouse of The Villages at Country Creek in Estero, Florida. Please reach out to the family for any further details or questions if interested in attending.
CAROLE J. WOOD
Carole J. Wood passed away on November 26, 2024 in Minneapolis. Loving wife of (deceased) Donald (Doc) Wood. Deeply missed by her children Deborah, Dare (Douglas) and Donald (Carrie). Grandchildren Stacy (Josh), Sam (Amber), Charles, Colin, McKenna and Cayden. Great grandchildren Remy, Zoey and Evie.
Holiday Parties
SUSAN D’ALESSANDRO
During the month of December, VCC held its annual Holiday Parties in the clubhouse for the various HOA’s. All were very well attended with many dressed in their holiday attire. There were 50/50 raffles with numerous winners.
The Villas holiday party had its guests spend the first hour listening to guitar music in the
bar followed by a wonderful sit-down dinner. The menus for all of the parties were expertly prepared, and the clubhouse and lobby were beautifully decorated in festive holiday tradition.
There was great participation on the dance floor, which was filled to capacity with guests showing off all their moves!
Sincere thanks to all who put so much work into these wonderful events, as well as Chef Kwazadine for the delicious meals he prepared, and the wait staff, who, as always, were so attentive.
VCC Critters
Recently, a VCC resident discovered a banded snake dead in the roadway. He thought it was a coral snake and was disturbed because coral snakes are highly venomous. With a little research, however, it was discovered that the snake was actually a king snake, a nonvenomous variety. The following is taken from https:// howstuffworks.com/snakes/ coral-snake-vs-king-snake.htm.
At first glance, the coral snake vs. king snake distinction can seem borderline impossible. But these two reptiles are worlds apart in terms of how they live, hunt and defend themselves. Both are colorful and slithery and live in the wilds of North America, but one is venomous, while the other is an expert mimic.
The vibrant coral snake has potent venom. New World coral snakes—native to North, Central and South America (like the eastern coral snake found in the U.S. for example)—have a distinct color pattern: bright red bands, yellow bands, and black rings that alternate along their body. Coral snakes deliver their toxins through small but effective fangs. When a coral snake bites, it uses a powerful neurotoxin that can paralyze its prey, affecting the nervous system and quickly shutting down vital functions. They typically feed on small snakes, lizards and frogs. Though coral snake bites are rare in humans due to the snake’s reclusive nature, bites require immediate attention if they do happen. Coral snakes live in various habitats, from sandy areas
in southeastern United States to tropical forests in Central and South America. You can find the eastern coral snake in places like southern Florida. Other New World coral snakes roam Central America and Mexico.
King snakes are nonvenomous but they bear a striking resemblance to the coral snake. Scarlet king snakes in particular, look like coral snakes with their red, black, and yellow bands. King snakes are constrictors which means they kill their prey by wrapping around it and squeezing tightly until the animal can no longer breathe. While they eat small snakes, lizards and rodents, they can kill and eat venomous snakes, including coral snakes. Their resistance to venom makes them a top predator in the snake world,
earning them the name “king” snakes. These adaptable snakes live across North America thriving in forests, grasslands and even deserts. There are many different king snake species, such as the scarlet king snake that inhabits the southeastern U.S. and the California king snake which lives out west. They lay eggs, which hatch into small replicas of the adults, ready to start hunting and mimicking other venomous snakes from a young age.
Here are a few differences between these critters.
• Coral snakes are venomous while king snakes are not. If you’re ever in doubt, check their color patterns closely. Coral snakes have yellow bands touching red bands, while king snakes have red bands touching black.
• Coral snakes use venom to paralyze their victims. While king snakes use construction to suffocate them. Their diets overlap a bit since both species eat small snakes and lizards, but king snakes have the added ability to prey on venomous snakes including coral snakes, thanks to their resistance to venom.
• Coral snakes are a bit more reclusive and live in more tropical or warm environments like southern Florida, while king snakes have a wider range and live across North America.
Care Bears
KAREN DOUGHERTY
Care Bear volunteers at VCC can provide the following free limited services for our residents.
• Provide medical equipment (shower chairs, walkers, wheel chairs, etc.)
• Drive to appointments.
• Grocery shop or assist with shopping.
• Recommend assistive agencies.
• Offer a helping hand.
For more information, call Karen Dougherty @ 217-220-0626.
Wii Bowling
KAREN DOUGHERTY
Our league season of Wii Bowling started on January 13, 2025. We have 56 teams of 4 players (224 bowlers) that will turn our clubhouse dining room into a bowling alley of 7 lanes. Come check out all the fun!
Substitute bowlers are always needed! You can sign up to be a substitute by filling out the form in the lobby of the clubhouse and turning it in to Jessica in the office. There is no fee for being a substitute.
Weekly bowling will continue until March 31 and the Wii Banquet will be on Monday, April 14 in the clubhouse.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
Now – March 31
Weekly Bowling April 14 Wii Banquet
Our committee looks forward to wishing everyone a successful bowling year!
Experience ArtFest as a VIP
As a VIP, receive VIP Perks & FREE Parking ALL weekend!
CELEBRATION OF LEGACY
FEBRUARY 1 & 2
OPENING NIGHT
JANUARY 31, 6pm
Caloosa Sound Convention Center
Edwards & Monroe St. | Downtown Fort Myers
Opening Night is FREE for everyone
Enjoy and purchase some of the best artwork exhibited anywhere in Florida!
Downtown waterfront is the setting to sneak preview 60 fabulous artists
Food & Entertainment
Support the arts in this gathering of art connoisseurs just like you and enjoy all the benefits of being a VIP.
VIP Club on Opening Night, Friday, January 31
Overlooking the downtown waterfront and glorious sunset
– VIP seating at Symphony of the Sound Concert
– Gourmet hors d’oeuvres from fine local restaurants
– Wine and beer
– 60 fabulous artists
VIP Club Saturday & Sunday, February 1 & 2
– Light Brunch with grazing stations and bottomless mimosas
– All Day Beverage Bar with wine, beer, soda and water
– 200 fabulous artists
VIP Club ticket holders will also have access to VIP seating at Symphony on the Sound
A free concert performance by
$135 per person | Become a VIP today!
To purchase VIP tickets or for more information, visit
A History of the Villages at Country Creek–Part 3
LOIS CHRISTENSEN
THE NINETIES ( 1990 - 1999 )
Estero in 1990 was a virtual no-man’s land. There was no grocery store, no gas station, and no bank nearby. The closest stores were on Bonita Beach Road. Corkscrew Road was a two-lane highway. A citrus market on Corkscrew just west of Country Creek’s entrance was the location of an orange grove. There, residents could buy bags of oranges and grapefruit, fresh squeezed orange juice, and all forms of fresh vegetables. Cows wandered among the trees and would mosey up to the fence that ran along the backside of the citrus market’s unpaved parking lot. One day a calf was born right there and got up on its legs to also look at the customers at the fruit and vegetable stand.
In 1990 Peg Valleskey assumed the duties of editor of the Villager newspaper from the first editor, Dot Bevington. Other writers were Claire Kastner–”The Cook’s Corner;” Stephie Brodbeck–”The Sporting Life;” and Kathy Roeder–”The Mystery Neighbor.” Another feature was “People and Places.”
The first community party took place at the pool on Labor Day 1990. A Christmas gift exchange took place in December with entertainment by the Country Creek Choir with Larry Westin, Jan Rosenthal, and Cass Strangio among the singers. New residents included Tony and Ruth Catalano, Elaine Lukes, Bill and Betty Lutz, William and Holly Schole, Arthur and Helen Bidle, Lloyd and Alice Winfried, John and Nancy Blakely, and Ralph Napolitano.
In July 1991 S&S Golf Management, Inc. with Helen and Robert Sarver and David Smith, assumed the management of Country Creek. Food and beverage manager was Michael Bramlett and golf pro was David
Combs. Harold Appelquist and Frydy Cole were named to the HOA Board of Directors.
Also in 1991, a horseshoe pit was built. Dick and Bee Call were the first residents on Horse Hame Hollow. Other new residents were Michael and Patricia Booth, Frank and Carol Clark, Robert and Marlene Brown, Bill and Barb Hackenberg, Ken and Patricia Brown, Larry and Rosemary Clark, Cheryl and Ed Scanlon, Claire and John Kim, Carol and Harold Wooten, and Don and Jackie Paulson. The 50s doowop vocal group, the Platters, appeared in concert in October 1991.
(continued on page 34)
The Ink Spots, a popular 40s group, performed at the Country Creek Clubhouse in 1992. In March, Roland Jolie won the second Men’s Golf Club Championship defeating Fred McBride and Don Saylor, and Don Paulson, the previous year’s champ, with a score of 72. Blacksmith Forge had its first annual block party with the Oelkers, Lukes, Binkas, Catalanos, Lutzes and Valleskeys attending.
In 1993 Elmer Rawson died peacefully at home after playing a round of golf. Elmer was an early resident and avid golfer who served as the first recording secretary of the Men’s Golf Association (CCMGA) and was involved in planning the Charities Golf tournament. He died just before the community talent show in which his wife, Martha (“the resident pianist”),was to accompany the vocalists, However, the show went on as planned and as Elmer would have wanted it. An annual golf tournament in his name takes place each year in February as a memorial and tribute to him.
On January 21, 1994 US Homes took over the community. In August, Ray and Gayle Pothier moved into the first Dover model built. Chuck Hunkins
started as assistant golf pro on October 31, 1994.
In 1995 construction began on the condos and villas. Condos sold from $79,900, manor homes from $99,400, patio homes from $108,900, and fairway estates from $133,900. Bill Rutherford was the first to purchase a condo. Other new residents were Edward and Mary Jane Harvey, Christie and Andy Vine, and Brian and Noreen Blakely.
Golf continued to be an important part of the community in the second half of the nineties. The Ladies Club Champion in 1996 was Virginia Marshall, and Mike Arrison was Men’s Club Champion. The original par 61 golf course was altered by adding two new holes in the estate section and removing two existing holes, one in the area of the 7th hole and the other near the 11th hole. Two lined retention areas for reclaimed water were added to the 10th and 11th hole, and the retention areas at the 5th and 6th holes were changed allowing irrigation of the added acreage.
In addition, in 1996 the Ladies and Men’s Golf Associations became more active. The Men’s Golf Association sponsored the first Christmas charity three-day
golf tournament with $1000 prizes each day and a chance to win a car in the hole-in-one contest. The community effort raised $24,542. Later a garage, bake, and crafts sale were added. In the next three years, this charity event raised more than $81,000. Almost all those funds went to local charities.
To the delight of the VCC residents, a shopping center with a Publix supermarket was finally completed in 1997, making it possible to do the week’s shopping within a few miles of home. 1997 also saw the beginnings of CCTV, with office staff in charge of entering the information for local viewing. In May of that year Chuck Hunkins became head golf pro. Mike Arrison again earned the Men’s Club Championship in 1997 and repeated that feat in 1998 and 1999. The 1997 Ladies Club champ was Carolyn Oversby, and the 1998 champion was Tiny Charles.
A casino night fundraising event was added in 1999 when the charity activities group separated from the Men’s Golf Association and became Country Creek Community Charities, Inc., a registered, taxexempt 501 (c3) corporation. Eileen Galvin, assisted by Lou
Crowley, chaired the first garage sale.
That year, Bob Gelles was general manager; May Irving food and beverage manager; Michale Cox executive chef; Sue Foust (“The Hat Lady” as she was referred to) social director; and Chuck Hunkins golf pro. Ed Lewis was in the news in 1999 for his role as Captain in Anything Goes with the Naples Players. Ladies Golf Championship was won by Jane Lingman.
Cook’s Corner
KIM GRAHAM
HANKY PANKYS
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 lb. Hamburger
• 1 lb. Jimmy Dean sausage (or similar breakfast sausage)
• 1 lb. of Velveeta cheese.
• 1/2 tsp of garlic salt
• 1 tsp. oregano
• package of cocktail rye
Book Club News
MICHELLE SUAREZ
DIRECTIONS:
Cook hamburger and sausage in a large fry pan. Add Veveeta and spices. Let cheese melt and mix well. On a cookie sheet arrange cocktail ryes in tight rows. Spoon mixture onto cocktail ryes.
Heat oven to 400 degrees, cook for 15 minutes or until the cocktail ryes are crispy on the edges.
Serve hot. Enjoy.
The VCC Bookies meet on the third Wednesday of each month. Next year we will add December as a month to meet and review a book. There are currently 15 members of the club. We formally became The Bookies in 2022. The books chosen for 2025 follow. In January we are very excited to host the author of the chosen novel for January.
January: Unbridled, Michael Springer
February: Just Another Missing Person, Gillian McAllister
March: Daughter of Mine, Megan Miranda
April: The Girl with the Louding Voice, Abi
May: Home Front, Kristen Hannah
June: The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder, David Grann
July: My Name Is Memory, Ann Brashares
August: The Women, Kristen Hannah
September: The Keeper of Happy Endings, Barbara Davis
October: The Vacancy in Room 10, Seraphina Nova Glass
November: Counting Miracles, Nicholas Sparks
December: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, Rebecca Lacks
Villager Staff
Editorial Staff: Lois Christensen, Susan D’Alessandro, Margaret Farmar, Judy Lieske, Jude Knisley
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.
