TheVillager
NOVEMBER 2025
A Look Inside
FROM THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANAGER
VILLAGE OF ESTERO CORNER
IS AN EGRET A HERON, A CRANE, OR JUST AN EGRET?
FEATURE PHOTO: WILDLIFE ON HOLE 8.
SEASON
The holiday season is a time for gratitude, generosity, and community spirit. One meaningful way to embrace these values at work is by donating to the Employee Holiday Fund. This initiative plays a crucial role in recognizing the hard work and dedication of our staff, and in fostering a positive workplace culture.
WHAT IS THE EMPLOYEE HOLIDAY FUND?
The Employee Holiday Fund is a collective pool of donations from members of VCC, aimed at providing holiday bonuses for the staff.
Dishwashers, servers, runners, cart barn attendees, line cooks, bussers, pro shop attendees, and the professional management directors all benefit from your generosity. Your donation is a great way to thank staff members for their support and dedication to VCC and its members throughout the year. (Please note, the general manager does not receive a portion of your contributions.)
Every contribution helps make the holiday season brighter for staff members. Your meaningful token of
appreciation helps to strengthen the bonds that make the VCC workplace feel like a community. A rewarding workplace can make employees feel valued, which can positively affect morale, productivity, and retention.
HOW TO CONTRIBUTE
Contributions may be delivered or mailed. If you wish to deliver your contribution to the administrative office, you may do so during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.—5 p.m. Please place
your donation in a sealed envelope and write Employee Holiday Fund on the outside. Or you may mail your donation to the office:
Villages of Country Creek
ATTN: General Manager 21185 Country Creek Drive Estero, Florida 33928
Donating to the Employee Holiday Fund is a simple yet powerful way to spread joy and say thank you. Please consider showing your gratitude with a donation to the fund.
Committee Corner
COMMON GROUNDS COMMITTEE
BJ SNYDER
Did you know . . .
• VCC encompasses a total of 282.33 acres, which includes around 85 acres for the golf course, 121 acres of residential land, 36 acres of open space, and 40 acres designated as right of way. Common Grounds helps maintain 161.33 acres of VCC property, covering all areas except for the residential sections.
The Common Grounds Committee, in conjunction with our General Manager and Master Board, have been busy working on cost estimates and projections for the 2026 calendar year budget. For some residents the operating budget for the “Common Grounds” area of our community may seem very large. So, the committee members thought it would be interesting to provide some “did you know” points about our community and Common Grounds to help better understand the intricacies of our community as well as the work and budget necessary for maintaining our “Common Grounds.”
• Common Grounds is responsible for caring for approximately 1,500 palms and 550 hardwoods, such as live oaks and
pines, located throughout the common areas and golf course.
• The VCC golf course includes 15 bodies of water, with fountains and/or aerators. Common Grounds oversees their operation, water quality, plant management, and general maintenance.
• VCC is one of the few Lee County residential communities that has a river flowing through. VCC has the Estero River channel as well as the North Estero River branch and the South Estero River branch running through the community. The Common Grounds Committee is responsible for maintaining the riverbanks, stabilizing riverbanks, erosion control and regulating invasive plants.
• VCC has 85.6 acres of main irrigation lines, which the Common Grounds Committee operates and maintains along with the pumps.
• Common Grounds is responsible for maintaining and cleaning VCC’s storm drains as preventative steps for flooding.
• Common Grounds Committee is responsible for mowing of common areas, applying pesticide, trimming shrubs, fertilization, and enhancing the appearance of VCC with new plantings/landscaping. – YES, these are the responsibilities of Common Grounds Committee.
In summary, maintaining common areas, the golf course, flood control systems, and the Estero River, as well as landscaping, pond and irrigation upkeep, storm drain cleaning, and bank stabilization is much like the saying “it takes a village to raise a child,” effective management of our Village (Country Creek) requires many resources and collective effort.
From the Food and Beverage Manager
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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
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
CCLGA News
Alison Vukojevic, league president, and the executive board of the CCLGA welcome back the ladies’ league members and any prospective new members to the Fall season. The season opened on November 4, and signups began on October 21. Current dues and handicap payments are due as we begin the season. CCLGA is $35 and handicap is $25, due prior to play for the season.
The first scramble/luncheon date is November 18. This is a change in the schedule, due to 11/11 being Veterans’ Day, annually celebrated with a breakfast for our veterans.
There are many exciting events planned for the 2025-26 CCLGA. Details concerning our annual special events will be distributed to league members soon. Special events include the LGA/MGA event (1/29), hosted by the LGA this year. Other annual events include the new members’ breakfast (1/19), Charity Event (2/12), member/guest day (2/26), League Championship (3/10 & 3/12), Member/member (4/9). Signups for special events are 2 weeks prior to the event and are pre-paid events. Signup early to get your spot!
GOLFING ON VCC OFFERS MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO ENJOY WILDLIFE (HOLE #8)
Tennis Notes
KRISTEN SALERNO
The tennis community at VCC is getting back in the swing of things. Women’s weekly social tennis will be available through the app Team Reach. Any questions can be directed to Barbara Wilson. Men’s can be located on the bulletin board by the condo courts. Coach Wayne returned on October 25. Sign up weekly on the condo court bulletin boards for his weekly instruction.
All levels are welcome. Hope to see you on the courts!
Deadheaders
LISA SPRINGER
During September and early October, Summer Deadheaders pulled weeds and invasive vines at the front and back entrances, the bocce court, the Villas pool and various cul-de-sacs.
Volunteers together worked over 84 hours, saving our community nearly $5,500 in landscaping costs.
The group celebrated the end of summer deadheading by playing in the 1st Annual Deadheaders Golf outing. The winning foursome (Diana Burton, Lisa Springer, Pat Smoyer and Nancy Bosshard) walked away with the coveted succulent plant award.
Bocce News
PATTI O’CONNOR
The VCC Bocce winter league will start Tuesday, January 13, and run through the end of March. Currently, 13 teams are scheduled to play, but we can add additional teams if required. If you are interested in joining the league, you can contact one of the captains listed at the right, or email Patti O’Connor at buka@ comcast.net or call 732.859.2058.
Each bocce team can have a maximum of 26 players. Our captains are Millie Willis, Gene Cipriano, Wayne Canary, Cyndy McDermott, Mary Anne Alicea, Noni Alicea, Sharon & Tom Boos, Diana & Harry Burton, Ron Hopkins, Jackie Brezney, Donna Weiser, Jeff Royer, Mark & Sue Twombly.
The Bocce Captains’ meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 6, 2026 starting at 2 p.m. in the clubhouse (room 1). Also, please save the date— Annual Bocce Award Banquet is Friday, March 27.
Wii Bowling
JUDY LIESKE
The 2025 Fall Wii Bowling has started on Monday Evenings and will continue through Monday November 17. Bowling times are 4:30, 5:00, 5:30, and 6:00. The sign-up sheets are in the Clubhouse Lobby. The cost is $2 a person per game.
Please stay and visit our Creekside Dining and try The New Fall Menus! Along with some new amazing entrees, there will be a Special Burger and Pasta of the week.
Come and have fun with your neighbors and friends. Truly a great way to meet new friends!
JOIN IN THE FUN ON MONDAY EVENINGS!
VCC History
THE END OF THE DECADE—2012
Throughout the years, the Master Board responsibilities have grown, and additional community volunteers have come forth to serve on various committees to assist the Board. In 2010 Country Creek was a $4 million dollar business. Budgets had to be approved and streamlined. Local homeowners associations, 13 in number, had to deal with issues that affected them individually, and Architectural Review Board (ARB) had to oversee and enforce standards as they applied to the exterior of all buildings
and dwelling units, and a Common Ground Committee had to oversee and make recommendations on the upkeep and improvement for all common ground property. The Finance Committee, along with the treasurer and key employees, developed and recommended a budget for the Board to adopt. The Community Golf Course Committee reviewed existing procedures and made recommendations as to how the golf course should operate. The Social Activities Committee (SAC) planned special events at the clubhouse. The Nominations and Elections group
had to oversee and conduct the election of members to the Board. The Communications Committee was responsible for the Villager newspaper, CCTV, VCC Web site and the Directory. There were also committees responsible for reviewing community needs— Policies and Planning, Volunteers, Inc., CC Charities, Inc., and a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)— all of which reported to the Master Board. A Recreation Committee was to be formed in 2010 to oversee tennis, bocce, and the fitness room.
Since the Villages at Country Creek became an independent community, the following people have served as Master Board Presidents: 2000 – Bob Selby; 2001 – Bob Spurlock; 2002 –Bill Martin; 2003 – Neil Gedderberg; 2004 – Bob Hoffman; 2005-2008 – Bob Nelson; 2009 – Ron Reichert; 2010 and 2011 – Jerry Desmond; and 2012 – Alice Rintamaa.
In February 2010 Daniel Thron was named the new general manager. In March Lynn Danko became the inhouse concierge. August 15 David Shall was hired as the new chef. Country Creek Community Charities, Inc. raised $9,800 from the Garage Sale and a total of $16,500 for the year that was distributed to eleven local charities. Ravis Prueitt was Citizen of the Year at the Elks induction where he was
named Exalted Ruler. The Country Creek Men’s Golf Association (CCMGA) awarded the Fred McBride award to Ron Reichert for outstanding contributions to CCMGA.
The Men’s Golf Association Champion for 2010 was Carl Sandquist. Eight of Country Creek’s women’s tennis teams were successful and won in every flight in the Naples Grande Ladies Double Open Tournament. Men’s Tennis 3.0 team had nine wins and two losses ranking in the top two in the league. Bocce grew to 325 players and thirteen teams. The Rollin B.S. Forgers won the 2010 title and in last place were the Bocce Boomers, retaining their status in the league. The Estero Civic Association was revived as the Estero Community Association.
In the greater community, Lee County reduced its 2010 property tax extension for general operations by 22.3%, the largest reduction of any of the 67 counties in Florida. In Estero, housing permits showed a slight gain over 2008 and 2009 but were a small fraction of the 2000-2006 boom years. The 2010 building value was the lowest of the decade. In addition, the permitted commercial building values of Estero hit a new low for the past ten years, down 4% from the previous low in 2009.
“We got through the whole financial crisis of the early 2000s much better than most communities,” said John Fuzi, a 14-year realtor in Florida. “Foreclosures and short sales totaled only 16 since December 2005. That adds up to only one-and-a-half percent of our total
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units. These numbers are far lower than communities that didn’t fare as well.”
After the real estate market plummeted throughout the country starting in 2008, the Villages at Country Creek felt the sale of homes also drop to all-time lows.
From April 2010 to March 2011 twenty homes sold at an average price of $205,540. During the same period from April 2011 to March 2012 eighteen homes sold at an average price of $211,594.
In 2010, keeping a positive attitude regarding the present and future, Estero’s all volunteer community organizations, the Estero Council of Community Leaders (ECCL), the Estero Community Planning Panel (ECPP), and the Estero Design Review Committee (EDRC) created a new, updated presentation for Estero residential community and service organizations entitled “Village with a Vision/2011.” The program focused on the Community Plan and its effect on the Estero community’s growth and development.
Is an Egret a Heron, a Crane, or Just an Egret?
LOIS CHRISTENSEN
Florida is home to several egret species, most notably the Great Egret, a large white bird with black legs and yellow bill, and the smaller Snowy Egret with black legs and yellow feet. The Cattle Egret is also common, often found near livestock or other large animals to feed on disturbed insects. All these egrets, along with the distinctively colored Reddish Egret, are part of the Heron family (Ardeidae) and inhabit Florida’s various wetlands, marshes, and grasslands.
The graceful, all-white Great Egret stands over 3 feet tall and is much larger than the Snowy or Cattle Egret. During the breeding season, many egrets, like the Great Egret and Snowy Egret, develop long, delicate plumes that the bird fans during displays. In the late 19th century, large numbers of egrets and herons were indiscriminately killed for their beautiful plumes, which were used in fashionable ladies’ hats. By 1897, the newly formed Massachusetts Audubon Society helped convince the Massachusetts legislature to outlaw the wild bird feather trade. Soon, other Audubon societies formed around the United States that led to the creation of the National Audubon Society, which has the Great Egret as its symbol.
Although Great Egrets are usually solitary birds, they congregate in colonies (also known as rookeries) during their breeding season, often alongside other wading birds such as Reddish Egrets and other herons or Wood Storks. These large, noisy colonies are usually located high in trees or shrubs over water, to discourage potential predators. Within the colony, Great Egrets are territorial and aggressive, defending their space with sharp bill jabs and harsh calls.
Great Egrets are omnivores eating mainly small fish but also consuming amphibians, reptiles, birds, and small mammals, as well as invertebrates including crayfish, shrimp, dragonflies, and grasshoppers. This bird’s hunting strategy is as flexible as its diet. It can be seen foraging alone or in groups, wading through shallow water in search of food, or standing stock-still, waiting for unsuspecting prey to approach. Prey is secured with a quick jab of the egret’s long neck and bill. Although usually associated with water, Great Egrets occasionally hunt on land, in grassy areas or mown fields. In Florida, for example, they can be seen patrolling lizard-sheltering shrubs, shadowing people fishing, and even grubbing turkey leg scraps from amusement park patrons.
Snowy Egrets prefer a different approach. They walk slowly through the shallows, regularly pausing to stretch one leg forward and rapidly waggle it. This movement disturbs the floor
and flushes out small fish and other aquatic creatures, which the egret can then catch. Their bright yellow feet are thought to help disturb prey. Cattle Egrets are often found away from water, in fields of livestock. You’ll see them following the grazing mammals, feeding on insects and other small animals they disturb. They stroll along behind the grazers, sometimes breaking into a short run when they spot prey.
To tell if you saw a crane or a heron, look at its neck and behavior while flying: herons have long, “S”-shaped necks and fly slowly with that curve, while cranes fly with straight necks and have shorter, faster wing movements. Also, herons fly with their legs stretched out behind them while cranes fly with their legs dangling.
Notes: American Bird Conservancy allaboutbirds.org birdsandblooms.com discoverwildlife.com
CATTLE EGRET GREAT BLUE HERON
GREAT EGRET
In Memoriam
MAUREEN L. CURTIN
Maureen Lynn (Grant) Curtin, 80, of Estero, FL, formerly of Middleton, NH, and Cambridge, MA, passed away on October 8, 2025.
Born in 1945 to Margaret A. and George F. Grant, Maureen grew up in a lively household with five siblings. She attended Newton High School, where she played field hockey, and later earned
Maureen and her beloved husband, Joseph J. Curtin, began their family in Watertown, MA, before settling in Joe’s hometown of Cambridge. Together, they raised three children in a closeknit neighborhood surrounded by
Hampshire led to the purchase of a home at Sunrise Lake in Middleton, where Maureen and Joe eventually retired. She cherished time spent boating with family and friends and served on the Board for the Rochester District VNA.
Maureen and Joe enjoyed many cruise vacations with lifelong friends and later embraced the “snowbird” lifestyle in Estero, FL, where she delighted in shopping, beach outings, and water aerobics.
Creativity was a constant in Maureen’s life. She
predeceased by her parents, her sisters Ellen Dragunas and Margaret Gorman, and her brothers Frank and George Grant.
A memorial service was held on Monday, October 20 in Sacred Heart Parish in Watertown, MA followed by a Funeral Mass. Interment followed in Cambridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude
In Memoriam
JOHN ROBERT THURSTON
THURSTON, John Robert—It is with deep sadness that the family of John Thurston announces his sudden passing. John passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends at Norfolk General Hospital on September 30, 2025, just shy of his 64th birthday.
Beloved husband of Tracy Bates for over 22 years. Loving father of Amanda (Bryan). Cherished grandpa to Ryder. Dear brother of Brian (Heather) and Jane Henderson (Jane). John will be deeply missed by his nieces, nephews, family and friends.
John led an interesting and diverse life. His work life started at DeHavilland and finished when John retired, after a successful career, as a Project Manager at Xerox. He continued to share his knowledge by being part of the condo board where he lived in Port Dover. John lived life to the fullest through his many interests. He was an avid golfer in both Port Dover and Estero, Florida. John was a loyal fan of many sports. Miami was his team in the NFL and the Maple Leafs in the NHL. He was also passionate about Formula 1 and attended the races in Montreal with lifelong friends for over 25 years. John held an annual Horse Shoe Tournament in honour of his late father, Jerry, which was enjoyed by
everyone involved. Music was another of John’s loves and he happily shared his extensive knowledge and passion with friends. Attending concerts and plays was another of his pastimes. He loved being on the water and fishing. John also loved a good debate with whoever would partake.
John left an indelible mark on everyone in his life. Selfless and generous, we will all miss his warmth, vitality and enthusiasm for life. His joy was his family and friends. John’s sudden passing leaves an unimaginable void in the life of his wife Tracy and their dreams for travel, spending time in Florida and watching their grandson grow. John was an amazing person and husband, a jack of all trades, and loved taking care of Tracy. Rest in peace, our dear, sweet Johnny.
At John’s request cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to the FERRIS FUNERAL HOME, 214 Norfolk St. S., Simcoe. (519-426-1314). If so desired, donations may be made to the Princess Margaret Hospital. Online condolences may be shared at www.ferrisfuneral.com.
JOHN ROBERT THURSTON
Cook’s Corner
PATTY GRAHAM
PORK CHOPS IN WINE AND MUSHROOM SAUCE
INGREDIENTS
• 8 pork chops
• 2 cans Golden Mushroom Soup
• 6 oz. red wine
• 6 oz. water
• 2 medium onions quartered
• Garlic salt
• Pepper
Combine mushroom soup, wine, water, garlic salt and pepper and set aside
Place pork chops in crock pot
Pour mushroom sauce over chops
Add quartered onions on top of chops and sauce
Put cover on crockpot and set to LOW for 6-8 hours
Serve with mashed potatoes and your favorite veggies
Village of Estero Corner
THE KEY POINTS EMERGING FOLLOWING THE ENGAGE ESTERO COMMUNITY MEETING ON SEPT 26, 2025
President Allan Bowditch summarized several significant developments that have recently commenced, as well as one of the most important projects that will begin in a few years, located along U.S. 41 north of the Hertz Offices at Williams Road.
The meeting also covered the alarming issue of “Property Fraud.” Kevin Karnes, Lee County’s Clerk of the Court & Comptroller, explained how this process works and what steps are needed
to combat this serious problem. Also called Title fraud, it happens when someone uses a forged deed to sell or transfer property that isn’t theirs. Although a forged deed doesn’t actually transfer ownership, it misleads others into thinking that the property’s ownership has changed.
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If you would like to view the summary report of the meeting or listen to the YouTube video, please visit www.esterotoday.com and click on the link on the first page.
Make a note of the Dec. 11 Community Meeting at the Estero Recreation Center at 10 a.m.
At this meeting, we will have several important updates from Village Management.
THE 2025 DON ESLICK ESTERO PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD – GOES TO ???
After careful deliberation, Engage Estero is pleased to announce that Dr. Larry Antonucci, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lee Health, will receive this prestigious award.
We believe many Greater Estero residents share this view and that it is a very fitting and justified recognition for Dr. Antonucci.
Under his leadership and dedication, Lee Health has provided Greater Estero with a broad range of healthcare services. In addition to the Health Center at Coconut Point, over the years, Lee Health has delivered the following health services:
The Meeting Agenda:
1. Final Results of the Village of Estero’s 2024 Traffic Study
2. Update of the Septic to Sewer Program.
3. Update of the Estero River Park Development.
UNIVERSITY HIGHLANDS
• Primary care services
• Rehabilitation
• X-ray and other imaging
• Mammograms and breast health
BONITA HEALTH CENTER
• Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Cancer Clinic –hematology and infusion
• Pain management
• Pulmonology
• General vascular surgery clinic
• Adult behavioral health
• Expansion of rheumatology
• Specialty gynecology
• Pediatric behavioral health
• Allergy
• Urology
• Gastroenterology
• Cancer rehab and Cookie’s Place for prosthetics, etc.
SWFL PROTON CENTER
• Imaging provided by Lee Health
• Radiation therapy
• Proton therapy – the only center between Tampa and Miami
In thanking Engage Estero’s President, Allan Bowditch, for the award, Dr. Antonucci said, “The mission of Lee Health is to be a ‘trusted partner,’ and our relationship with Estero is proof that
we continue to invest to keep Estero a great place to live, work, play, and retire. As citizens of Estero ourselves, we remain committed to growing with the community.”
A special dinner honoring Dr. Antonucci will be held at the Estero Country Club at the Vines on the evening of February 26, 2026. If you’re interested in attending to congratulate Dr. Antonucci, please mark your calendar. More details about the event will be shared in the coming weeks.
“Be Informed, Get Engaged, and Make an Impact!”
Estero Historical Society
EHS Speaker Series: Saturday, November 15 at 9:30 a.m. at the Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr., Estero, featuring Dallas Townsend presenting The History of the Citrus Industry. Dallas Townsend is a Fort Myers native who worked as an agent with the University of Florida Cooperative Extension Service ensuring SWFL farmers and ranchers benefitted from the agency’s research. He was inducted into the Florida Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2014. Enjoy a fascinating look back at one of Florida’s most important agricultural legacies while connecting with fellow history enthusiasts. The event includes a delicious continental breakfast. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for future members.
Annual Holiday Turkey Lunch: Join us on Monday, December 15, Noon to 1:30 p.m., at the Villages of Country Creek, 21180 Country Creek Dr., Estero, for a traditional turkey lunch with all the trimmings and hear local historian Jacob Winge share “Holiday Traditions on the Florida Frontier.” Tickets are $40 for members and $45 for future members.
Future members are welcome to join online at https://esterohistoricalsociety. com/memberhship. All events require reservations, which can be made at https:// esterohistoricalsociety.com/events/.
Seabreeze Communications Expands In Weston And South Miami-Dade With Launch Of Two Community News Sites
Seabreeze Communications is excited to announce the upcoming launch of WestonTogether.com, created in partnership with the Weston Chamber of Commerce, and SouthDadeSpotlight.com, developed in collaboration with the South Dade Chamber of Commerce.
Both platforms are designed to bring local news, events, and stories directly to residents, businesses, and visitors. Each site will feature a monthly digital
magazine, event calendar, and neighborhood stories that highlight the people and places that make each area unique.
“These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media,” said Stephen Miller, president of Seabreeze Communications. “We’re proud to work alongside both Chambers of Commerce to celebrate their cities and support local businesses.”
Both Weston Together and South Dade Spotlight are set to go live January 2026.
To subscribe for updates and digital magazine releases from Weston Together or South Dade Spotlight, visit SeabreezeCommunications.com .
For advertising, partnership, or community story inquiries, contact Sales@seabreezecommunications.com . These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media
VCC Hours of Operation effective
November 1, 2025
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 - 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
