Villages at CC JULY 2025

TheVillager JULY 2025

FEATURE PHOTO: DAISY BLAIR’S 300 GAME AT SUMMER WII BOWLING

A Look Inside TORTOISES VS. TURTLES

LIFE AFTER NURSING

VILLAGE OF ESTERO CORNER

IN THIS ISSUE 2 | From the Master Board

18 | Life After Nursing:

30 | VCC Hours of Operation

4 | Keep Track of Major

Finding Purpose in Retirement

31 | Villager Staff

Projects

6 | VCC Reciprocal Golf 6 | VCC Showcase 10 | Wii Bowling 11 | VCC History – 2007 14 | Tortoises vs. Turtles 15 | Green Iguanas

19 | Cook’s Corner 22 | Village of Estero Corner

24 | Healthy Corner

Contacting the VCC Staff Contacting the Master Board

32 | Estero Community Useful Numbers

28 | Just for Laughs 29 | Community Channel Update

From the Master Board It’s hard to believe we are already in the middle of the summer. Still, the committees continue to work diligently to improve VCC. There are two projects that require improvement which will commence soon – the main pump house and the satellite pools.

Additionally, conversations are underway to determine the improvements needed for the bocce courts.

At the May Master Board meeting, the proposal from K & B Pumps, Inc. was 2

unanimously approved for pump station modifications and upgrades. This pump house is the heart of the VCC irrigation system. It was last updated 13 years ago.

In addition to equipment upgrades and modernization, the conversion should result in improved system performance and a savings in electrical energy consumption.

A determination of the needs for each of the satellite pools is in progress.

This summer will see lots

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

of activity as the needs are addressed at each of our pools. Thank you to those of you who have shared your thoughts about the pools you’ve visited.

Many of you may recall the Facilities Committee is relatively new. Essentially, this committee is responsible for the review of assets and amenities in VCC. They are charged with the suggestion of long- and short-term plans for the Master Board to consider relative to maintenance, cleanliness,

improvement, repair, replacement, and operation of VCC facilities and assets.

You may learn more about the Facilities Committee at this link. Later this year, this committee will work in tandem with the community for the second annual Community Service Day. Please mark your calendar for Saturday, November 8.

We hope you are available to volunteer for this great event.

Interested in what the other committees are working on?

Members may keep up to date with committee work with a review of the minutes of past meetings. Committee composition and schedule of meetings can be found at this link. If you’re interested in reading about the Finance Committee’s work, please review the Treasurer Reports. Additionally, the Treasurer and Committee representatives provide reports at each of the Master Board meetings.

community have asked why the strategic plan doesn’t span more than it does, such as three or five years.

It’s important to remember Board terms last two years.

The initial members of the current Master Board were seated in March of 2024.

They developed the twoyear strategic plan as a first step toward long term planning. As the composition of the Master Board changed, it was decided the

Some of the members of the

(continued on page 4) villagesatcountrycreek.org

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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

members that would serve beyond the two years, beyond March 2026, should develop the next strategic steps, as they would be responsible for implementing the plan. To learn about the projects under consideration for the future, please review the Strategic Plan at this link.

TheThe Villages Villages at at Country Country Creek Creek UseUse youryour phone phone camera camera to hover to hover overover andand clickclick thisthis image image to keep to keep track track of major of major projects. projects.

(239) 278-4222 www.seabreezecommunications.com

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

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VCC Showcase LOIS CHRISTENSEN

CAROL DEFRANK Carol DeFrank is a master at working with fabric.

Originally from Ohio, Carol and her husband, Steve, moved to Florida in 1997 and to VCC in 2000. Her home is on the southern end of Rivers Ford. In Carol’s early career in Ohio she had her own business in advertising and marketing.

While in that business she authored a book called Visions of the Valley which chronicles noteworthy people and places of the Ohio valley where she lived and worked.

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

Her enjoyment with sewing began with clothing construction, but, as is typical of many who delve into the arts, she is always looking for something new to do. She is a member of the Naples Quilters Guild and attends various retreats and instructional programs across the country and abroad to increase her skill and satisfy her creativity. The lion quilt shown in the photo on the next page won the second-place award at the 2025 Naples Quilters Guild competition in

March. This is an example of her work in quilt piecing, and the bedspread is an example of her work with quilt applique. However, the two bouquet projects shown on the next page take her in a completely different fabric direction.

To complete these projects, she first looks for fabric that features various flowers. Then she meticulously cuts them out, and when she has “enough,” spreads them out to resemble a bouquet and then stitches them down to hold them in place. Both are works of art that hang in her living room. The bowls, one of her

favorite projects, represent another unique way of working with fabric. These are constructed of clothesline wrapped with fabric and then sewn into bowl shapes. Fortunately, her house is big enough to accommodate a large sewing room with several machines and yards and yards and yards of fabric that she can fashion in so many different ways. She’s a regular contributor to the VCC Holiday Boutique—you may recognize her as the “turtle” lady. (continued on page 8)

villagesatcountrycreek.org 7

WARREN BARTLETT Pursuit of creativity in the arts takes many forms. For Warren Bartlett it has culminated in the wood carving of birds. Warren, a retired aeronautical engineer, lives with his wife, Anne, on Blacksmith Forge. They bought here in 2001 and divided their time between their beloved cottage in New Hampshire and Estero until 2011 when they moved here full time. His career took him to many places, jobs, and positions in the field of engineering.

His woodcarving began in Middleton, New Hampshire with a couple of friends who met a teacher that taught the three guys how

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

to carve birds. Since then, he has perfected his craft and for several years worked with other bird carvers at the Estero Recreation Center. His projects typically begin with a wood block of tupelo wood, a lightweight wood that has almost no grain (see the photo of the mockingbird below). He uses power tools similar to those used by dentists in his work. The photos of the

small owl clearly show the intricacies Warren has developed in the carving of birds, their feathers, and other features. Beyond the carving is the meticulous painting of the feathers to create nearly exact (though smaller) replicas of the birds. He constructs their legs with a base of copper wire and uses a special anvil to fashion their claws. They are amazingly lifelike. In the kingfisher model, he has created a thin removable lower wing to create a super dimensional aspect.

The blue teal, on the other hand, uses woodburning rather than painting to create unique markings.

Though Warren doesn’t do much carving at the present time because of an arthritic condition, his work is beautifully displayed in his home. The models are testaments to his love of birds and his skill in their creation.

villagesatcountrycreek.org 9

Wii Bowling JUDY LIESKE

The 2025 Summer Wii Bowling started Wednesday, June 11, 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 per person per game.

skills. We even had a 300 score from Daisy Blair that was very exciting for some of the new players to experience.

Join in the fun and stay for a delicious dinner special!

Our first few weeks have been very successful with many residents enjoying some great summer fun!

There were several residents new to Wii Bowling that came to try their

DAISY BLAIR’S 300 GAME 10

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

VCC History—Renovations Completed and a New Trend Developing in the Housing Market – 2007 Building was booming through most of the year 2006 and prices were rising. By 2007, Estero, the sleepy little village of 4,600 households only 10 years before, had grown to a bustling community of more than 25,000 permanent residents.

The 65-acre Estero Community Park opened to the public near the end of 2006 with a 42,000-squarefoot recreation center and an attached amphitheater stage for concerts and other public events. With its bocce courts the resident teams of Country Creek benefited

from the proximity of the park only minutes away.

The roads around us, as well as the community, were growing. Plans were in the works for widening U.S. 41 from Corkscrew to San (continued on page 12) villagesatcountrycreek.org 11

Carlos, widening I-75 from four to six lanes and improving the Corkscrew/I-75 interchange and extending Three Oaks Parkway south from Coconut Road to Bonita Beach Road.

During January 2007, several major stores opened for business nearby. Lowes’ store opened for business in the Estero Town Commons on the southeast corner of Three Oaks and Corkscrew Road.

The five-story, 94-room Hampton Inn opened in the Corkscrew Commerce Center, located on the southwest corner of the intersection of I-75 and Corkscrew Road. The Coconut Point Town Center was completed holding their Grand Opening the second weekend of February 2007.

In spite of the commercial boom in 2006 and 2007, a trend that began in early 2006 became very apparent in the housing industry by the end of 2007. Housing units permits issued during the months of 2007 were by far the lowest in the eight years that Lee County had tracked Estero’s permits.

This slowdown in construction of new homes would be in stark contrast to the building boom year of 2005 when 2,699 building permits were issued. In 2007, only 432 permits were issued in Estero. Although fewer homes were

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started in 2007, the average building value of these homes was higher than any other year and more than double that of 2000. The same was not true for existing homes, however. The building boom of 2005 created a large number of unsold homes, causing a decline in property values.

By January 2007 in the Villages at Country Creek, the clubhouse renovation was almost complete.

The Creekside Restaurant reopened, and the official Clubhouse Open House took place at the end of January 2007. With the renovation behind them, the Master Board and other residents were ready to turn their attention to other projects.

The biggest project in 2007 was renovation of most of the tees and greens on the entire golf course. The course was closed May 1 and reopened October 1. Gordon Lewis, the original golf course architect, surveyed and mapped out the size, shape and contour of the new greens seeded with champion grass. He designed the greens larger and better, making our executive course one of the best in the area. Volunteers, Inc.

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

helped to reduce the cost by building walls and curbs and repairing cracked golf cart paths.

Other resident volunteers made their contributions. CCTV (channel 98) had been down during the renovation and was missed. It returned as Channel 95.

The website (villagesatcountrycreek. org) was now online and running as a wonderful source of the latest information about Country Creek.

Jackie Yndestaf and Ray Pothier were newly elected to the Master Board. Ron Reichert was re-elected to the Board.

That year Bob and Arlene Hoffman celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at a great party, and Karen and Bob Bal’s daughter, Sarah, celebrated her marriage to Mark Betzer with a reception that was “a dream come true.” VCC residents happily enjoyed the up-to-date facilities.

The biggest project in 2007 was renovation of most of the tees and greens on the entire golf course.

Another issue in 2007 was that of supply of reclaimed water that had been halted by Lee County in the fall of 2005. After many available options, it was determined that building a storage tank and new pumping station was the most economical and practical choice. The location would be across from the golf course maintenance area. Completion would not be until November 2008.

2007 had been the year of the two biggest renovations to Country Creek since its opening in 1987. The clubhouse was totally remodeled, and the golf course was entirely renovated.

Both gave a whole new look to Country Creek. Many enjoyed and used the Clubhouse for their special celebrations.

villagesatcountrycreek.org 13

Tortoises vs. Turtles PATRICIA SMOYER

I was recently told some of our residents are removing our turtles and tortoises from the roadways and putting them into the ponds. I understand why you are doing this. You don’t want them to be hit by a car.

Now I’d like to explain why you shouldn’t be taking the turtles and the tortoises directly to water. A tortoise will drown if you put it in water because they cannot swim. A tortoise has claws which they use to dig their burrows and navigate all kinds of terrain. If they are on the road, pick them up and move them to dry ground in the same direction they were heading. If it’s a turtle, remove it from the road and put it on land close to water. Let them decide if they want to be in or out of the water. Both tortoises and turtles breathe via lungs.

I was reminded of last year; keep them pointed away from you when you pick them up otherwise you could get very wet.

TORTOISE

The tortoises I have seen in our community are Gopher Tortoises. These are endangered and you certainly do not want to be caught harming them in any way.

By now you are wondering, how do I tell them apart? Tortoises have claws, a dome shaped shell and reside in sunny sandy locations. A turtle has almost paddles for legs, no claws. Their shells are streamlined, which is good for swimming. You could shock them by throwing them into the water. That’s why it’s best to place them near water. A word of warning, something

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

TURTLE

Enjoy our wildlife and respect them.

Green Iguanas DESCRIPTION Green iguanas are large, typically green lizards, though they can sometimes be brown or almost black in color. Some adults can take on an orange or pink coloration during certain times of the year. Hatchling and young green iguanas usually have bright green coloration.

Green iguanas have a row of spikes down the center of the neck, back, and upper portion of the tail, and have dark black rings on the tail. Mature male iguanas develop heavy jowls and a throat fan (or dewlap) that are much larger than those of female iguanas. Larger throat fans can make male iguanas appear bigger, repel rivals, or warn predators. Female iguanas may choose to breed with male iguanas that have larger dewlaps. The throat fan can also help iguanas regulate body temperature. (continued on page 16)

Male green iguanas can grow to over five feet in length and weigh up to 17 pounds. Females can also reach five feet in length but usually do not exceed seven pounds. Females typically reach reproductive maturity at two to four years of age.

Green iguanas typically mate in October through November in their native range, and nesting occurs on riverbanks, beaches and other sandy areas. Females dig egg chambers that may contain nearly 80 feet of interconnected tunnels and

multiple entrances and lay clutches of anywhere from 14-76 eggs.

Green iguanas can live up to 10 years in the wild and 19 years in captivity.

Green iguanas can live on the ground, in shrubs, or in trees in a variety of habitats including suburban developments, urban areas, small towns, and agricultural areas. They are excellent swimmers, tolerating both salt and freshwater and can

submerge themselves for up to four hours at a time.

DIET Green iguanas feed on a wide variety of vegetation, including shoots, leaves, blossoms and fruits of plants such as nickerbean, firebush, jasmine, orchids, roses, Washington fan palms, hibiscuses, garden greens, squashes and melons. Their tendency to eat ornamental plants can make them a nuisance to homeowners.

Adult green iguanas can also feed on bird eggs and

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dead animals. Juvenile green iguanas feed on vegetation, insects and tree snails.

NATIVE RANGE The native range of green iguanas extends from Central America to the tropical parts of South America and some eastern Caribbean islands.

cleared habitats such as canal banks and vacant lots, green iguanas reside in burrows, culverts, drainage pipes and rock or debris piles. South Florida’s extensive manmade canals serve as ideal dispersal corridors to further allow iguanas to colonize new areas.

IMPACTS FLORIDA Green iguanas cause DISTRIBUTION damage to residential and Green iguanas were first commercial landscape reported in Florida in the vegetation and are often 1960s in Hialeah, Coral considered a nuisance by Gables and Key Biscayne property owners. Iguanas along Miami-Dade County’s are attracted to trees with southeastern coast. Green foliage or flowers, most iguana populations now fruits (except citrus) and stretch along the Atlantic almost any vegetable.

Coast in Broward, Martin, Some green iguanas cause Miami-Dade, Monroe and damage to infrastructure by Palm Beach counties and digging burrows that erode along the Gulf Coast in and collapse sidewalks, Collier and Lee counties. foundations, seawalls, berms There have also been reports and canal banks. Green as far north as Alachua, iguanas may also leave Highlands, Hillsborough, droppings on docks, moored Indian River and St. boats, seawalls, porches, Lucie counties. However, decks, pool platforms individuals observed in more and inside swimming northern counties are likely pools. Although primarily escaped or released captive herbivores, researchers animals and are unlikely to found the remains of tree establish populations, as snails in the stomachs of iguanas are not cold hardy. In green iguanas in Bill Baggs

Cape Florida State Park, suggesting that iguanas could present a threat to native and endangered species of tree snails.

In Bahia Honda State Park, green iguanas have consumed nickerbean, which is a host plant of the endangered Miami Blue butterfly. As is the case with other reptiles, green iguanas can also transmit the infectious bacterium Salmonella to humans through contact with water or surfaces contaminated by their feces.

Green iguanas were added to Florida’s Prohibited species list in April 2021.

Green iguanas are not protected in Florida except by anti-cruelty laws and can be humanely killed on private property year-round with landowner permission.

The FWC encourages removal of green iguanas from private properties by landowners. Members of the public may also remove and humanely kill iguanas from 32 Commission-managed lands without a license (continued on page 18) villagesatcountrycreek.org 17

or permit under Executive Order 23-16.

Captured iguanas cannot be relocated and released at other locations in Florida. If you are not capable of safely removing iguanas from your property, please seek assistance from a professional nuisance wildlife trapper.

A permit is required to possess live captured green iguanas for eradication and control purposes.

Reprinted from Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Life After Nursing: Finding Purpose in Retirement

CAROLE ROMP BSN, R.N.

What does a nurse do after retirement?

After working diligently to earn my nursing degree from Duke University and becoming licensed in Ohio, Iowa, and now Florida, I still felt the need to find a sense of purpose in the field I loved. With experience spanning home care, hospital, office settings, and most recently hospice care, I decided to explore new ways to stay involved.

gem. It offers a wide range of free classes and wellness services. For instance, in June, programs included chair yoga, stretch and balance classes, CPR certification, cooking demonstrations, and even a “Power Up Your Golf Performance” session. Other offerings include walking groups, support groups for cancer and Alzheimer’s caregivers, and music therapy sessions.

That journey led me to Lee Health’s Healthy Life Center at Coconut Point. Now, every Friday morning during “season” (typically October through April), I volunteer by taking blood pressures on a walk-in basis. Visitors, patients, volunteers, and employees all stop by to have their blood pressure checked. Over the summer, the schedule may vary, so it’s best to call the Healthy Life Center at 239-468-0050 to confirm that Carole is there.

To view the current schedule, email healthylifecenter@leehealth.org for a monthly calendar. While there is no charge for most offerings, reservations are appreciated.

The Healthy Life Center is truly a community 18

The staff at the Healthy Life Center are especially helpful—whether it’s assisting with MyChart or navigating a smartphone. The facilities are excellent, and if you visit, don’t miss the Bistro for a light and healthy lunch.

Whether you are a retiree looking to stay engaged or a resident seeking wellness resources, I encourage you to check out all that the Healthy Life Center has to offer!

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

Cook’s Corner LOIS CHRISTENSEN

SLOW COOKER PORK CHALUPAS This recipe is great for a group. Once the main course is ready, you just set out all the toppings and let each person add their favorites – make a taco, salad, etc.

Serves 10 Prep time 10 minutes Cook time 9 hours (see below for options) INGREDIENTS: 2-3 pound pork shoulder roast 1/2 pound dry pinto beans (If you use 2 cans of beans instead, cut the cook time down to 6-7 hours) 3 cups water (approximate) 1/2 cup diced onion 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 (4-ounce) can green chili peppers 2 tablespoons chili powder 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon red pepper (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Spray slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Place roast inside slow cooker.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the beans, onion, garlic, green chilies, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Pour over the roast, then add enough water to the slow cooker so that the roast is almost completely covered.

3. Cook on low heat for 8-9 hours checking about halfway through to make sure there is still water and add more water if needed.

4. When the roast is done cooking, remove bone and fat and shred using two forks.

Return to the slow cooker in the leftover liquid and serve on tortillas with your favorite toppings.

SUGGESTED TOPPINGS: Tortillas Salsa Cheese Sour cream Tortilla chips Diced tomatoes Lettuce Guacamole

villagesatcountrycreek.org 19

The Transformative Benefits of Consistent Massage Therapy WHY ROUTINE BODYWORK IS MORE THAN A LUXURY—IT’S A LIFESTYLE In today’s high-stress, always-on world, many of us are seeking effective, sustainable ways to care for our bodies and minds. While the occasional massage may offer momentary relief, consistent massage therapy brings long-lasting, transformative benefits. Here’s how incorporating massage into your regular wellness routine can make a powerful difference:

�� 1. Chronic Pain Relief & Management

Regular massage therapy can ease conditions like back pain, arthritis, sciatica, and fibromyalgia. Techniques such as deep tissue and trigger point massage help reduce inflammation, loosen tight muscles, and improve mobility—offering a natural, non-invasive solution for pain.

�� 2. Improved Circulation &

Detoxification Massage stimulates blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage, which helps deliver nutrients more efficiently and remove metabolic waste. This not only speeds recovery from injury but also supports your immune and cardiovascular systems.

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

�� 3. Stress & Anxiety Reduction

Massage significantly reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Over time, this leads to a more balanced mood and greater emotional resilience.

쏘♂ 4. Enhanced Flexibility & Range of

Motion By reducing tension and increasing joint fluidity, massage can boost flexibility and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re an athlete or simply want to stay mobile, regular bodywork keeps you limber and strong.

�� 5. Better Sleep Quality

Struggling with sleep? Massage helps shift the body into a parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) state, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. It’s especially helpful for those suffering from insomnia or sleep disturbances related to pain or stress.

��6. A Stronger Immune System

Reduced stress levels and improved lymphatic function mean your immune system can do its job more effectively.

Consistent massage supports the body’s natural defense mechanisms—especially important during cold and flu season.

7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity �� ��7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity

Better sleep, reduced anxiety, Better sleep, reduced anxiety, andand g improved improved circulation all contribute circulation all contribute to to n improved improved cognitive function.

Regular cognitive function.

Regular massage helps more grounded, massage helps youyou feelfeel more grounded, focused, ready to tackle your focused, andand ready to tackle your dayday with a clear mind. with a clear mind.

Make a Habit, Not a Treat �� ��Make It aItHabit, Not a Treat

True wellness comes with True wellness comes with consistency.

Whether weekly, consistency.

Whether it’sit’s weekly, biweekly, monthly, setting biweekly, or or monthly, setting up up a a regular massage schedule helps your regular massage schedule helps your r body body mind adapt improve andand mind adapt andand improve over time.

Thankfully, there over time.

Thankfully, there areare businesses there Massage businesses outout there likelike Massage Envy that make your new routine Envy that make your new routine both convenient affordable! both convenient andand affordable!

Massage therapy is not about Massage therapy is not justjust about relaxation—it’s about restoration, relaxation—it’s about restoration, resilience, long-term health. resilience, andand long-term health.

Take time care yourself Take thethe time to to care forfor yourself consistently, your body thank consistently, andand your body willwill thank years come. youyou forfor years to to come. book your next session or learn To To book your next session or learn more about discounted wellness more about ourour discounted wellness packages, visit MassageEnvy.com packages, visit MassageEnvy.com or stop of our 6 Southwest or stop intointo oneone of our 6 Southwest Florida Massage Envy Locations.

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villagesatcountrycreek.org 21

Village of Estero Corner The latest update was provided recently, inviting citizens to sign at the end of the article to let us know their concerns so that we could pass them to FDOT, the Estero Village Council, and Management on your behalf. The link is https:// esterotoday.com/i-75/

THE ESTERO SPORT AND RECREATION COMPLEX On May 23rd Michael Comparato, Director of Vieste LLC, and Project Manager of the Sports Complex, addressed residents at the Engage Estero Community Meeting and outlined the steps that will be taken over the next few years to complete what will be the largest investment in the Village of Estero since its incorporation in Dec. 2014. There was excellent participation from residents, and after the meeting, almost 300 residents watched the YouTube recording of the meeting.

WIDENING I-75 FROM 6 LANES TO 10 FROM CORKSCREW ROAD TO IMMOKALEE. As a result of residents’ concerns relating to the likely increase in traffic noise resulting from the development, Engage Estero’s team has been proactive on many fronts!

If you would like to catch up on the details discussed, please click on https://esterotoday.com/ event/may2025/ 22

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

• Local HOAs and Gated Communities Management have been contacted, and a series of “next steps” have been itemized https:// esterotoday.com/i-75/ • A Podcast involving an interview by Mike Wasson, Communications Deputy Director & Education Coordinator, and Allan Bowditch, President, was prepared that also explained several aspects relating to the residents’ concerns and the dangers not only of the increased traffic noise but also of the increased health dangers.

• Allan Bowditch, President, was interviewed by WINK News about residents’ concerns on this issue, and was featured on the 3:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. news bulletin on Tuesday, June 10, click: https:// www.winknews.com/ fdot-to-expand-i-75-to-10lanes-from-southern-leecounty-into-collier-county/ video_d2eaddf7-15425343-b2ef-1dc4c7067c28. html

the weather forecast. But for some in our community— those with medical needs, mobility limitations, or pets— being truly prepared takes a little extra thought and action. Now is the time to plan to ensure everyone in your household, including your furry family members, is safe and cared for in the event of a storm. The article will be sent out shortly and will be listed on our website at www.esterotoday.com

• Carmen Monroy, Senior Transportation Manager with CTS Engineering, who has worked at FDOT in the past, stressed the need for residents to make their views known. The upcoming Public Meeting is on August 14th at North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Road, Naples, FL 34109. Doors will be open at 4:30 p.m. with the Formal Presentation at 6:00 p.m.

FUTURE PLANS

ADDITIONAL HURRICANE GUIDANCE As hurricane season begins, most of us know to stock up on water, secure our homes, and keep an eye on

• Engage Estero’s Community Meeting on September 26 at 10 a.m. at the Estero Recreation Center. ○ Mary Gibbs, Estero’s Community Development Director, will summarize several of the major Commercial and Residential Developments taking place and the complex nature of working with developers that gained approval for the land development prior to the Village’s incorporation. ○ Clerk Karnes, Clerk of the Court will address the

property fraud alert service, a free service that alerts you if a fraudulent deed is filed in your name!!

• Towards the end of October (date, time and place to be determined) the Community Meeting will address the latest news of the new Proton Therapy Center. We also hope to address the legal change to the regulations related to HOAs and Condos in Southwest Florida.

• In the Spring of 2026 a Public Forum is planned on March 17th at 5 pm at the Cohen Ballroom to address: “Where is Estero Headed?”

What are the plans and aims for the municipality?

Will we still be a Village?

An important meeting for greater Estero residents so take a note of the date and venue now!

Now is the time to plan to ensure everyone in your household, including your furry family members, is safe and cared for in the event of a storm.

villagesatcountrycreek.org 23

Healthy Corner

JUDY LIESKE

Welcome to a new addition to The Villager. We will be featuring a special event each month.

Below please see some healthy living classes and seminars in your area. Just click on the link below to see all the amazing opportunities for the month of July. www.Leehealth.org Featured this month from Lee Health is their Acupuncture, see on next page.

FLORIDA BLUE CENTER OF FLORIDA The Florida Blue Center in Estero offers complimentary workshops and community events. The classes are complimentary, and participants do not have to be enrolled in the Florida Blue program. Sessions include health, fitness and nutrition, art classes and safety presentation provided by the Lee County Sheriff’s Department.

Lunch and Learn sessions take place on Wednesdays and require registration. A calendar for July (on page 28) contains upcoming events and contact information.

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

villagesatcountrycreek.org 25

July 2025

Fort Myers Center

Events Calendar Tuesday

Monday 1

Strength, Balance & Stretch 11:30am-12:30pm

Wednesday 2

Thursday 3

Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

Friday 4

Saturday 5

4TH OF JULY

Tai Chi 9:00am-10:00am

CENTER CLOSED

Yoga 5:30pm-6:30pm

7

Total Body Wellness 10:00am - 11:00am Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

14

Total Body Wellness 10:00am - 11:00am Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

21

Total Body Wellness 10:00am - 11:00am Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

28

Total Body Wellness 10:00am - 11:00am Nutritional Wellness 11:30am-12:30pm Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

8

Strength, Balance & Stretch 11:30am-12:30pm

Yoga 5:30pm-6:30pm

15

Strength, Balance & Stretch 11:30am-12:30pm

Yoga 5:30pm-6:30pm

22

Strength, Balance & Stretch 11:30am-12:30pm

9

A Guide to Plant-Based Eating (Lunch & Learn) 12:00pm-1:00pm

16

Lee County Sheriff: Frauds & Scams (Lunch & Learn) 12:00pm-1:00pm

23

Building Resilience (Lunch & Learn) 12:00pm-1:00pm

Yoga 5:30pm-6:30pm

29

Strength, Balance & Stretch 11:30am-12:30pm TechTips: Smart Devices 1:00pm-2:30pm Yoga 5:30pm-6:30pm

10

Weight Management to Prevent Diabetes 11:00am-12:00pm

11

12

Member Orientation 10:00am-11:00am

Tai Chi 9:00am-10:00am

18

19

25

26

Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

17

Weight Management to Prevent Diabetes 11:00am-12:00pm

Skin health: Take Care of the Tai Chi Skin You're In 9:00am-10:00am 11:00am-12:00pm

Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

24

Weight Management to Prevent Diabetes 11:00am-12:00pm

Painting with Passion 10:00am-11:00am

Tai Chi 9:00am-10:00am

Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

30

31

Weight Management to Prevent Diabetes 11:00am-12:00pm

Painting with Passion Friday, July 25th

Zumba 5:30pm-6:30pm

10:00am-11:00am

Florida Blue Center — Fort Myers

July featured events:

Play it safe

Caring for others

Lee County Sheriff: Frauds & Scams

TechTips: Smart Devices

Wednesday, July 16th

Tuesday, July 29th

12:00pm-1:00pm

1:00pm-2:30pm

Join LCSO’s Heather Turco shares her firsthand experience on how quickly criminals can drain our bank accounts. She’ll explain how to protect yourself from becoming a victim.

In this interactive and informative class, learn how to get the most out of your smart devices, from smartphones and tablets to smart home devices and wearables. Discover how to customize your devices to fit your needs.

8041 Plaza del Lago Dr. Estero, FL 33928 (239) 494-3460 Mon-Fri: 9am-7pm; Sat: 9am-4pm

Be smart when it comes to No appointments necessary summertime fun. is a big job — prioritize your health soFloridaBlue.com/center/Fort-Myers

Scan the QR code then enter your zip code to find events at your local Florida Blue Center.

you can keep doing what you do best.

Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

119695 0924

JUST FOR LAUGHS...

A woman brought a very limp duck into a veterinary surgeon. As she laid her pet on the table, the vet pulled out his stethoscope and listened to the bird’s chest.

After a moment or two, the vet shook his head and sadly said, “I’m sorry, your duck, Cuddles, has passed away.” The distressed woman wailed, “Are you sure?” “Yes, I am sure. Your duck is dead,” replied the vet.

“How can you be so sure?” she protested.

“I mean you haven’t done any testing on him or anything. He might just be in a coma or something.”

The vet rolled his eyes, turned around and left the room. He returned a few minutes later with a black Labrador Retriever. As the duck’s owner looked on in amazement, the dog stood on his hind legs, put his front paws on the examination table and sniffed the duck from top to bottom. He then looked up at the vet with sad eyes and shook his head.

28

The vet patted the dog on the head and took it out of the room. A few minutes later he returned with a cat. The cat jumped on the table and also delicately sniffed the bird from head to foot. The cat sat back on its haunches, shook its head, meowed softly and strolled out of the room.

The vet looked at the woman and said, “I’m sorry, but as I said, this is most definitely, 100% certifiably, a dead duck.”

The vet turned to his computer terminal, hit a few keys and produced a bill, which he handed to the woman. The duck’s owner, still in shock, took the bill. “$150!” she cried, “$150 just to tell me my duck is dead!”

The vet shrugged, “I’m sorry. If you had just taken my word for it, the bill would have been $20, but with the Lab Report and the Cat Scan, it’s now $150.”

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

Community Channel Update JUDY LIESKE

THREE AMAZING TOOLS TO STAY INFORMED WITH ALL VCC HAPPENINGS WHETHER HERE OR UP NORTH! Do you have The Clubhouse Online App on your phone?

Below is the link to download this valuable tool to view VCC Events, Roster (directory of residents), and view and pay your monthly statements.

You will need your Account number and password to use this app. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/clubhouseonline-mobile-app/id1413832065 Use your Hotwire Fision Phone App while up north!

PLEASE NOTE NEW TAB ON COMMUNITY TV OR PHONE “PROJECT UPDATE” Check your messages weekly for updates on all projects completed or in progress, all changes, and even just the fun things going on here in our wonderful Community. The Community tab is located at the bottom of the Hotwire Fision App. Anyone needing help downloading the phone app or using your TV remote please contact Judy Lieske at (239) 351-0002 or email vcchotwiretv@ gmail.com.

The Villager will now be published 12 months a year and is available online at https:// vcc.seabreezecommunications.com. Again, another great tool to keep our residents informed about past and future events right at your fingertips.

Enjoy all this valuable information right at your fingertips!

villagesatcountrycreek.org 29

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!

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The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025

Villager Staff Editorial Staff: Lois Christensen, Susan D’Alessandro, Margaret Farmar, Judy Lieske, Jude Knisely 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

villagesatcountrycreek.org 31

ESTERO COMMUNITY USEFUL NUMBERS Emergency (Fire, Police, Medical, Sheriff, Highway Patrol, Poison Control .......................... 911 Alligator Hotline .............................................................................................................. 866-392-4286 Animal Control–Lee County ......................................................................................... 239-533-7387 Estero Community Park................................................................................................. 239-533-1470 Estero Councilor District–Lori Fayhee....................................................................... 239-413-0316 Estero Village Office https://estero-fl.gov/.............................................................. 239-221-5035 Estero Fire Rescue (non-emergency).......................................................................... 239-390-8000 Florida Power & Light..................................................................................................... 239-334-7754 Florida Traffic Reports.................................................................................................... 800-468-8243 Greater Estero Chamber................................................................................................ 239-390-1137 Historical Society............................................................................................................. 239-272-1911 Hotwire (Fision Cable & Internet for VCC) ............................................................... 800-355-5668 Koreshan State Park ....................................................................................................... 239-992-0311 Lee County Administration .......................................................................................... 239-533-2111 Lee County Dept. of Public Safety.............................................................................. 239-533-3911 Lee County Sheriff........................................................................................................... 239-477-1000 Lee County Utilities (Water, Sewer) ........................................................................... 239-533-8845 Lee Library (South County, Three Oaks).................................................................... 239-533-4400 Mosquito Control ............................................................................................................ 239-694-2174 Post Office–Three Oaks ................................................................................................ 239-390-0823 Sheriff’s Office–(Non-emergency) .............................................................................. 239-477-1000 United Way Helpline ...................................................................................................... 239-433-3900 VCC Administration ........................................................................................................ 239-947-2050 VCC Pro-Shop................................................................................................................... 239-947-3840 VCC Restaurant................................................................................................................ 239-947-4488 Waste Pro Hort. & Recycling and Garbage Collection (Tuesday) for VCC ....... 239-377-0800 32

The Villager, The Villages at Country Creek | July 2025