Whiskey Creek
Security Report
MICHAEL KUEHN
This past month there were 15 traffic stops for stop sign violations; they resulted in 12 warnings and 3 citations. A deputy took a report about a burglary from an unlocked vehicle. The deputy responded to a medical call. The deputy assisted the aviation and K-9 units in the search for a missing 8-year-old girl. Three warnings were issued for vehicles parking in the bicycle lane on Whiskey Creek Drive. The deputy answered a complaint about shots fired. He found no witnesses, bullet holes or shell casings upon investigation. The deputy removed tree debris from the roadway. He assisted a resident who flagged him down. The deputy was called to the 7-Eleven to assist in handling a reported theft. Investigated a suspicious person report. He could not locate the person upon arrival. The above items were taken from the daily reports filed by the deputies.
Sudoku Puzzle
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Miranda Ledbeter
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Corey Bank
Justein Matthias
Webmaster
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
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Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
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President’s Message
Greetings Whiskey Creek Community,
Happy 2025 to everyone! The WCCA Board of Directors is excited to get to work representing our amazing community. Your support, kindness, and collaboration have been the driving force behind our successes over the past year.
In 2025, we are excited to continue hosting fun community events, including the upcoming Chili Cookoff on February 8 with celebrity judges. Stay tuned for more information if you believe you have the best chili
in town! We will also have a Food Truck Rally at the Country Club and a Battle at the Creek Golf Tournament, which will serve as a fundraiser for local nonprofits.
In addition to these events, we are working on ongoing initiatives to improve the entrances and medians along Whiskey Creek Drive. The Board is currently reviewing protocols and procedures with the county to restore these areas, which have not been updated in over 20 years. This significant project will require a coordinated effort between the county, MTBSU, and our community, and may also involve a specific capital campaign to support such a large enhancement project.
In recent weeks, board members have been approached by both new and existing residents about the WCCA membership campaign. They are seeking information on how to participate and how the funds will be allocated. For more details, you can visit the WCCA website at whiskeycreeknews.net. Some individuals expressed surprise at the affordability of the membership fees, which are designed to support the enhancement of our community. We are committed to providing regular updates as we strive for 100 percent participation. Currently, membership stands at approximately 30 percent, and we are making daily progress.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to both new and returning members for your membership and dedication to our community. The annual membership fee of $125 will be allocated to various community needs. This includes funding for community events, ensuring adherence to deed restrictions, providing general community protection, and enhancing our overall community. Thank you for your support!
To learn more about how the funds will be utilized and to become a member or renew your membership, please visit https:// whiskeycreeknews.net/membership/.
We’d love to see everyone at our monthly board meetings! It’s a great opportunity to learn more about what’s happening in our community and get involved. If you can’t make it, no worries! You can still stay in the loop and participate by checking out the resources on our website. Also, if you spot anything that needs attention—like a home not quite following the deed restrictions or a broken sprinkler in the medians—don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our board members or drop us a message through the website https://whiskeycreeknews. net/. Thank you for being such an important part of our community!
If you haven’t visited the Country Club recently, come by and check out our new menu items and drink specials! We’ve also updated the décor and have exciting golf specials and events. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed and affordable happy
hour, delicious brunches and dinners, or a place to socialize and unwind, the club is a fantastic spot to enjoy time with friends and neighbors.
Whiskey Creek continues to be a popular destination for residents of all walks of life, each contributing to the rich tapestry of our community. Whether you’re here to settle down, unwind, or raise a family, your presence is vital to our collective vision.
Much respect,
Cole Peacock, Board President, Whiskey Creek Civic Association
The Holiday Golf Cart Parade!
FIRST PLACE –“GINGERBREAD HOUSE” BY THE POKRYWA FAMILY
SECOND PLACE –“THE DISCO EXPRESS” BY MATT RAMSEY, ANGIE BENTON, JOEY AND LIZ ISLEY
THIRD PLACE –“GRINCH’S SLEIGH” BY THE HARTT FAMILY
Real Estate Round-Up
BOB OXNARD, REALTOR ®
WILL REAL ESTATE MAKE A REBOUND IN 2025?
A friend recently remarked, “If 2024 were a fish, I would have thrown it back!” It’s clear that last year did not meet her expectations. That’s one of the good things about a new year. It makes a clean slate for expectations. Out with the old and in with the new year. Speaking as a REALTOR®, some of my peers are pointing to the things that made 2024 less than ideal for real estate. One of the big factors creating uncertainty for buyers and sellers was the presidential election. With this now settled, the housing market has already started to rebound.
Some key housing indicators for 2024 include: a decline in the number of home sales, a drop in the median price of existing homes, and an increase in the number of homes available for sale. Despite a rate cut by the Fed, interest rates have remained persistently high. Home insurance costs have surged, and securing coverage has become more difficult. Florida condominium associations are facing rising
insurance premiums and more regulations, while higher fees for condominium units are putting downward pressure on condo sale prices.
Some of these deterrents to housing were caused by storm damage resulting from two hurricanes in two years. Some Floridians are rethinking how close to the water they want to live. Homes in areas which are less flood-prone like Whiskey Creek are more attractive to buyers.
The law of supply and demand is at work. This law is one of the biggest reasons that the housing market is poised for a better future. Prices have decreased from the lofty levels they had seen recently. Inventory is high and sales are not keeping pace with the increase. This will continue to put pressure on prices until the market balances. As of early January, according to the MLS, Whiskey Creek had forty-one homes active on the market with five homes pending sale and only twelve sold in the previous four months. At this rate there is a ten-month supply of homes on the market. This
indicates a solid buyer’s market that sellers will have to deal with to attract buyers. The best solution is to reduce the listing price.
What will it take to make 2025 a better year for housing in our area? Lower prices and interest rates, improved insurance options, and no hurricanes would certainly help. More winter storms up north could drive more visitors our way, eager to experience why we love living here—the sun, sand, and sea. But then again, maybe it’s just as well if our little slice of paradise remains a hidden gem. After all, now that we’re here, who needs the crowds? We’re just fine, thank you!
If you have any questions or comments about this article or other real estate issues, please contact Bob Oxnard at whiskeycreeknews@yahoo.com.
Crossword Puzzle
ACROSS
1. One and only
5. Breezy
10. Self-satisfied
14. Arab ruler
15. Love intensely
16. Tropical root
17. Resisting authority
19. Freshwater mussel
20. How old you are
21. Beside
22. Long stories
23. Ceremonial peace pipe
25. Pertaining to cod
27. Physically sound
28. Sporting dogs
31. Chocolate
34. Savory
35. Faucet
36. “Oh dear!”
37. Twice twenty
38. Arouse
39. Mister
40. Forests
41. Divinity
42. Hurries
44. Band performance
45. Value
46. Mammals like camels
50. Earth tone
52. Monastery head
54. Paintings
55. Verse
56. Fear of heights
58. Fertilizer component
59. Ending in a piercing point
60. Frolic
61. Peddle
62. Trifling
63. Anagram of “sent”
DOWN
1. Glacial ice formation
2. Alpha’s opposite
3. Besmirch
4. Before, in poetry
5. Billfold
6. Blockhead
7. Midday
8. Pharmacists
9. “I agree”
10. Foolish
11. Large pasta tubes
12. Acid related to gout
13. Sticky substances
18. Female demon
22. Countercurrent
24. Unidentified flying objects
26. Pretentious
28. Poets
29. Person’s manner of walking
30. Agile
31. Money
32. Mishmash
33. Gymnastic feat
34. Odontalgia
37. 12 inches
38. Bristle
40. Had on
41. Profundity
43. Ball
44. Unkempt
46. Cut short
47. Line
48. Anagram of “naira”
49. Doesn’t go
50. Creative work
51. The central part
53. Spoiled child
56. Viper
57. Choose
Whiskey Creek Country Club News
Have you seen Whiskey Creek Country Club? WCCC offers a challenging course with beautiful views, and excellent amenities. Come and enjoy a golf game with friends ... enjoy a delicious lunch or have a refreshing drink at the bar.
WCCC is now open for breakfast and lunch on Mondays! The new clubhouse manager, Josh, is looking
Word Scramble
ELLIE NEAL
WHISKEY CREEK STREETS
Laetmh
Eeadrgtr
Lbalo Rctuo
Nrveri Ecclri
Rtecal
Ynuugbdr
Lantilom
Dwli Gif
Lyhasle
Lidfrafei
WORD SCRAMBLE
SOLUTION IN THIS ISSUE
forward to meeting you! The club is open seven days a week. A dinner buffet is available on Tuesday night from 5 to 7 p.m. There are appetizers and desserts available to be ordered with your Friday night dinner.
Trey Sones is available to give golf lessons. Inquire at the desk for his instruction times.
If you need a gift, why not stop by the pro shop and see the many new items arriving. WCCC 50th anniversary shirts and golf caps are still for sale. There are also gift certificates available if you can’t find that special gift.
Take time to stop at the club and pick up a brochure, (239) 481-3021.
Continental Women’s Club
LIZ PAUL
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, March 6 at 11:30 a.m. A special celebration is planned as 2025 is our 50th Anniversary year. Our March program will feature a dance presentation by Heart and Soles, a local dance team, who will help us with the celebration. Our very first luncheon meeting was held on March 6, 1975!
Meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend the luncheon is $26. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by Tuesday, February 25 for
meal selection and to make a reservation for our March 6 meeting.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.
Some Popular Drugs Can Cause Hearing Loss, Part I
MARY LOU WILLIAMS, M. ED.
Rush Limbaugh’s sudden loss of hearing in 2001 was the result of an addiction to three pain-killing drugs – OxyContin, Vicodin and a sister drug known as Lorcet.
However, these are not the only medications that can cause hearing loss. Some 200 drugs and chemicals may cause temporary or permanent hearing loss or balance problems, according to the American Speech-Language Hearing Association. What follows is a list of commonly-used medications and compounds that can cause hearing loss and or tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Medications that cause hearing loss are called ototoxic. In this list, the generic name of the drug is given first, with some
of the trade name or names by which it is available following in parentheses. The list is not exhaustive. Consult with your doctor if you have a question about the ototoxic effect of any drug you are taking.
The probability of having a hearing problem from one of these medications is usually very small. The drugs with the greatest potential for hearing loss are usually reserved for lifethreatening situations.
Drugs That Cause Both Hearing Loss And Tinnitus
The most commonly used ototoxic drugs are salicylates, which include aspirin and aspirin-containing products. Hearing loss and tinnitus have been recognized for more than a century as signs of aspirin toxicity. Toxic effects appear to be dose-related and are almost always reversible once medications are discontinued.
The next most commonly used class of drugs that are ototoxic are the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. Among these are ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil,
Nuprin, etc.), indomethacin (Indocin), naproxen (Naprosyn, Anaprox, Alleve), and piroxicam (Feldene). Like aspirin, the toxic effects of these drugs are doserelated and are almost always reversible once medications are discontinued. They also can cause tinnitus.
Among the antibiotics that can cause hearing loss are the aminoglycosides. These include amikacin (Amakin), gentamycin (Garamycin), Kanamycin (Kantrex), neomycin (found in many over-the-counter antibiotic ointments) netilmicin (Netromycin), streptomycin and tobramycin (Nebcin).
Neomycin is the drug that is most toxic to the structure involved in hearing, the cochlea, so it is recommended for topical use only. But even topical therapy has resulted in hearing loss when large areas were treated, which allowed for large amounts of the drug to be absorbed into the body. Hearing loss caused by this class of antibiotics is usually permanent.
Other antibiotics that are ototoxic are erythromycin,
vancomycin, minocycline, polymeric B and amphotericin B (anti-fungal preparations) and capreomycin (Capastat), an anti-tuberculosis medication. Some antibiotics also cause tinnitus: the aminoglycosides, amphotericin B, chloramphenicol (Chloromycetin), minocycline (Minocin), polymerize B, sulfonamides (Septra, Bactrim), vancomycin (Vancocin), and tetracycline.
Loop diuretics can cause both hearing loss and tinnitus. The loop diuretics are bumetanide (Bumex), ethacrynic acid
(Edecrin), furosemide (Lasix) and torsemide (Demadex). Among the cautions and warnings for these drugs are ringing or buzzing in the ears, hearing loss, deafness, fainting and a sensation of fullness in the ears. Hearing usually returns within 24 hours, but some loss may be permanent.
Patients on loop diuretics are more susceptible to noiseinduced hearing loss than they would otherwise be. Other diuretics can also be ototoxic such as some of the thiazide diuretics.
WORD SCRAMBLE SOLUTION
Hamlet
Tredegar
Bolla Court
Arvine Circle
Claret
Burgundy
Montilla
Wild Fig
Shalley
Fairfield
LEXOPHILES
Police were called to a daycare where a 3-yearold was resisting a rest.
Cook’s Corner
LINCOLN’S FAVORITE WHITE CAKE
CAKE BATTER INGREDIENTS
2 cups sugar
1¼ cups blanched almonds, chopped very fine
1 cup butter
3 cups flour
6 egg whites
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
1 cup milk
DIRECTIONS
Cream sugar and butter. Stir flour and baking powder three times. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with milk. Add almonds. Beat egg whites until stiff and fold into batter. Add extract. Pour into a greased and floured angel food cake pan. Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 1 hour. Turn cake on wire rack to cool.
Note: This noted cake was created by Monsieur Giron, a Lexington caterer, in honor of General Lafayette’s visit to Lexington in 1825. The recipe became a favorite of the Todd family, and they acquired it for family use. Versions of the cake vary slightly. Some reference to the use of sour cream icing.
RECIPES TAKEN FROM LINCOLN ERA RECIPES
ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S MOLASSES PECAN PIE
INGREDIENTS
4 eggs
1 pinch salt
1 cup light brown sugar
¼ cup melted butter
½ cup molasses
8 ounces pecan halves
½ t easpoon vanilla extract
1 10-inch unbaked pie shell
DIRECTIONS
Whisk together eggs, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth and light, about 5 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract, salt and melted butter. Sprinkle half the pecans in the pie shell. Pour in mixture and arrange pecans in circles on top. Bake pie in a 350-degree oven until filling is set, about an hour.
Note: Do not overcook or pie will be dry. May be stored up to 2 days in airtight container.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION
WC WC Whiskey Creek Whiskey Creek
Your $125/year membership funds the following:
Website (WhiskeyCreekNews.net)
Whiskey Creek News Bulletin (publishing & quarterly postage)
Maintenance of damage and/or upkeep of our community not covered by the MSTBU
Owners directory & membership mailings
Reserves to maintain & renew deed restrictions (WCCA spent nearly $100k in 2018 on this matter)
Free neighborhood events! Save the Date! Chili Cook Off!
February 8th, 1:00 p.m.
Holiday lights & decor
Storage rental
Accounting services
Fundraising toward our capital improvement goal to upgrade both entrances and the landscape along WC Drive
By joining the WCCA, you are at no obligation other than your financial contribution. However, we encourage you to become involved by attending our board meetings held on the second Wednesday of each month at the WC Country Club!
Questions? Email WccaAcct@gmail.com
Whiskey Creek Wildlife
MARK L. FRANZER
THE BURROWING OWL
Burrowing owls are just “that”; they dig themselves homes or take over homes from prairie dogs, ground squirrels, or tortoises. Having preferred open habitats, their numbers have dwindled sharply from human alteration of their favored landscape. Hunting for insects and rodents during the daytime, the burrowing owl stockpiles their cache to ensure adequate supply during incubation and brooding. It’s hard to distinguish the sexes of this species, whereas most owls, the females are larger than the males. Not so of the burrowing; they’re the same size.
There is a significant uniqueness to these owls compared to other birds, Due to their underground habitat, burrowing owls have evolved to have a much higher tolerance to carbon dioxide since this can accumulate below ground. Further uniqueness of the burrowing owl is their efforts of carpeting the entrance of their homes with animal dung to attract beetles and other insects for sustenance. They even collect paper scraps, cigarette butts, and other paraphernalia, possibly signifying that the burrow is occupied. They’re a long-lived species, reaching up to ten years.
Whiskey Creek Ladies’ Club
LENA ALLEGRO PRYOR
The Whiskey Creek Ladies’ Club was ready to greet the new year as 33 members and four guests eagerly attended the meeting. President Mo Poirier opened the meeting with a flag salute and a welcome. Ellie Neal read the inspirational message, “Never Forget.” The tables were decorated in a wintery theme by Cathy Trent. Prior meeting’s minutes and Treasurer’s Report were approved. In February, a Nominating Committee will be formed to prepare a slate of officers to present at the March meeting and then hold elections in April. Cindy Saldin volunteered to serve as chairperson of the Nominating Committee. President Poirier reminded members that name badges must be worn at meetings to avoid a $1 fine. She also announced that the cost of lunch is $24. Members are asked to pay by check or exact cash. Check is preferred.
President Poirier encouraged members to invite friends to join us as guests to attend a meeting and lunch and possibly join the ladies’ club.
Pam Lucas reported that the WCLC Book Club meets the third Thursday of each month
at 10:30 a.m. at the WCCC. There is a book discussion and lunch. New members are always welcomed. Interested parties please contact Pam at (276) 617-8850. Rosalie Merola, Sunshine Chairperson, announced she sent members virtual birthday and Holiday cards to members. Cathy Trent reported that The Whiskey Creek News is now available online. In order to receive online copies, contact them at Whiskeycreek@ seabreezecommunications.com.
Ann Marie Wildman and Maty Myer, representing J.N. Ding Darling, presented an informative slide presentation outlining the various program offerings of the organization in their efforts to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Next month’s meeting is February 6. The program is Better Together. Lunch will be Stuffed Shells and Tiramisu or Antipasto Salad and dessert.
Responses to next month’s attendance are due Wednesday, one week prior to the meeting. We encourage you to make your meal selection for the following month when you sign in at the meeting. If you need to cancel, please notify Linda Jones or the club at least 8 days prior to the meeting. Otherwise, you will be responsible for the cost of your meal. The Whiskey Creek Ladies’ Club is a social and service organization. Membership is open to all women in Lee County. We meet on the first Thursday of each month at the Whiskey Creek Country Club. Social time is at 11:30 a.m., meetings start at 12 p.m. from October to May.
An interesting and informative program is presented each month, a great opportunity to learn about the many programs offered in Southwest Florida. New members and guests are always welcome. Contact Linda Jones at piglinjones@gmail.com or call Linda at (678) 744-5461.
WHO MAKES THE BEST CHILI IN WHISKEY CREEK?
v i d e g a r n i s h e s s u c h a s c h e e s e , c i l a n t r o , s o u r c r e a m , c r a c k e r s . . - B r i n g c h i l i i n a c r o c k p o t b y n o o n . C r o c k p o t s w i l l l e f t o n “ w a r m ” s e t t i n g . - P l e a s e b r i n g y o u r o w n l a d l e a n d o t h e r s e r v i n g u t e n s i l s . - A b r i e f d e s c r i p t i o n o f t h e c h i l i & a n y f o o d a l l e r g y a l e r t s s h o u l d b e p r o v i d e d , - A w a r d s : 1 s t , 2 n d , 3 r d p l a c e & c r o w d f a v o r i t e
E N T E R C O N T E S T V I A E M A I L : w c c a a c c t @ g m a i l . c o m O R S I G N U P G E N I U S L I N K
Yard Of The Month
MARK L. FRANZER
Residing at 5706 Basswood Court, an exemplary volunteer from United Way to his favored service with the Captain of Clean Water followed by a cornucopia of other selfless efforts toils Bob Beville. Accompanying him through his landscaping endeavors is another selfless United Way supplicant and life’s partner Michelle Hidalgo. Having recently retired from Waterman Broadcasting; you’ll likely find him volunteering (again!) at Six Mile Cypress Slough. An exceptional talent in landscaping expressed a bit of
grief with the loss of his favored Gumbo Limbo but rest assured, his property is dually noted as this month’s favored Yard of the Month. Swing by, won’t you, and be enchanted with the glee of this recipient, the adornments of what he calls home, and share a tale of this long-term resident!
If you have family or friends that you’d like to share details of our beloved Whiskey Creek community (or show off your hard-earned recognition!), the web page for their review is http://www. whiskeycreeknews.net .
Also, please check out Whiskey Creek’s very own private Facebook page for additional community information, involvement, and market areas! You’ll need to request membership to gain access! https:// www.facebook.com/ groups/1430022127286192
For those who would like to nominate other homes in our lovely Whiskey Creek, please send your nominations to WC.yardofthemonth@yahoo.com.
2023 BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
RESOURCE HUB
WHISKEY CREEK CIVIC ASSOCIATION
WHISKEY CREEK NEWS
President: Cole Peacock 462-5805 colepeacock@comcast.net
Vice President: Wyler Gins 313-1056
Secretary: Kyle DeCicco 810-3729
Treasurer: Melissa Metzger 851-1561 msmetzger1119@gmail.com
Treasurer: Justin Gyarmathy
Events Chair: Melissa Metzgar
Seth Hart seth@boat-trailers.com
Jessica Nolan 462-6885 weathersnolan@gmail.com
Paul Copeland 464-8726 pcopeland@mcgriff.com
Mike McQuagge
Amy Kizmiller Pappas
Justin Gyarmathy
COMMITTEES
Deed Restrictions Chair: Seth Hartt seth@boat-trailers.com
Membership: Sally Gins wccaacct@gmail.com
Yard Committee Chair: Mark Franzer mfranzer@yahoo.com
Editor: Jan Kotcamp 482-7679 whiskeycreeknews@yahoo.com
Articles for The Whiskey Creek News must be submitted to the editor by the fourth of the month.
WHISKEY CREEK SECURITY
The Lee County Sheriff’s Department 477-1000
WHISKEY CREEK MSTBU ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS
Robert E. Beville, Chairman Irrigation 454-1413
Peter J. Boldrin, Secretary Walls 275-0491
Roland T. Kotcamp, Lighting 482-7679
Fitzroy A. Alexander, Landscaping 433-1836
Michael J. Kuehn, Sheriff Detail 454-6246
Josh Malo, MSTBU Coordinator 533-2308
LOCAL ACTION NUMBERS Emergency 911
477-1000
Coordinator 533-9400
Services 432-2083
of Commerce SW FL 278-1231 Child Abuse 1-800-962-2873 Code Enforcement 533-8895 Dead Animal Removal 949-6246 Div. of Motor Vehicles 533-6000
Elder Helpline 211
Management 477-3600 Health Dept. 332-9556 Fraud Line 477-1242 Lee County D. O. T. 533-8580
533-6000