Whiskey Creek
Whiskey Creek Civic Association Membership
SALLY GINS
As of November 30th, 28% of homes have joined as members of the Whiskey Creek Civic Association for the year 2024.
Thank you to our newest November members!
Karen Bradley Tyler and Jessica Carner
Brian and Julie Chapman
Adore and Alice Cloutier
William and Cynthia Davey
George and Jane Klein
Frank and Angela Mikat
Scott and Sandy Peterson
Glen and Dee Taylor
Recap of 2024: On behalf of the Whiskey Creek Civic Association, THANK YOU to our neighbors who became members for the 2024 calendar year. Our goal was 100% participation. Regardless of how small or large your donation was, we appreciate your commitment to our community. All singlefamily homes, condos, and townhomes benefit from the WCCA. If you have requests, questions, or wish to become more involved in 2025, please join us for a board meeting on
Sudoku Puzzle
SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION IN THIS ISSUE
the second Wednesday of each month starting at 6 p.m. at the Whiskey Creek Country Club.
Through the generosity of our 2024 members, we have been able to fund the following:
• Website (www. WhiskeyCreekNews.net )
• Printed (and now digital) newsletter and its postage
• Neighborhood events ○ Save the Date! 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off! Saturday, February 8th, 1 p.m. at the Whiskey Creek Country Club!
• Maintenance of damage and/ or upkeep of our community not covered by the MSTBU
• Owners’ directory and
membership mailings
• Bookkeeping and accounting
• Holiday lights/décor
• Storage rental
• Financial reserves to maintain and renew deed restrictions (WCCA spent nearly $100k in 2018 on this matter.)
• Fundraising toward our goal to upgrade both entrances and the landscape along Whiskey Creek Drive
If you have questions regarding your membership status, please email wccaacct@ gmail.com.
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Becky Pruitt
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Accounting and Sales Support
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
www.seabreezecommunications.com Seabreeze
Greetings
President’s Message
Whiskey Creek Community,
As we say goodbye to 2024 and welcome in 2025, the WCCA Board of Directors would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the amazing community we are privileged to be a part of. Your support, kindness, and collaboration have been the driving forces behind our successes over the past year.
If you missed the Holiday Golf Cart Parade, visit our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ whiskeycreek to view all the decorated golf carts. We
had over 100 participants, including the sheriff’s office antique car, a robotic dog, and much more. A big thank you to Melissa Metzger, Sally Ginns, the entire event committee, and the wonderful WCCA Board! Your hard work and dedication made all the difference!
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to continue hosting fun community events, such as the upcoming Chili Cook-off, along with initiatives to improve the entrances and medians along Whiskey Creek Drive. The Board is currently reviewing protocols and procedures with the county. Restoring the medians and entrances, which haven’t been restored for over 20 years, will be a significant project for our community. This will take a coordinated effort with the county, MTBSU, and our community which may also include a specific capital campaign for such a large enhancement project.
As we all enjoy more time outdoors this season, it’s important to note that many part-time residents will soon be returning to Southwest Florida, leading to increased traffic, more pedestrians, and a rise in golf cart activity in our neighborhood. Let’s prioritize safety during our daily travels. To tackle potential speeding and improve awareness, the WCCA has taken the initiative to petition the county to allow us to put up signs that will highlight pedestrian and golf cart zones. These signs will significantly enhance safety in our community and ensure that everyone can enjoy our lovely surroundings. I want
to assure everyone that the Sheriff’s Community Response Unit (CRU) will be active in our community and have a noticeable presence during season to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.
In recent weeks, I have been approached by both new and existing neighbors regarding the WCCA membership campaign. They are seeking information on how to participate and how the funds will be allocated. To learn more you can visit the WCCA website, whiskeycreeknews.net. Some individuals expressed surprise at the affordability of the membership fees, which are designed to support the enhancement of our community. Many may have observed the campaign announcements published in the local newspaper last month and again this month. We are committed to providing regular updates as we strive to achieve 100% participation. Currently, membership stands at approximately 30%, and we are making daily progress.
To our new and returning members, we extend our sincere gratitude for your membership and commitment to our community. The annual membership fee of $125 will be directed towards various community needs, including
funding for community events, adherence to deed restrictions, general community protection, and overall community enhancements.
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 will be making updates about the changes at Seabreeze Communications in the upcoming weeks and months. Our newsletter will be transitioning to a primarily digital format, with some print copies available, and we may shift to a quarterly publication schedule. These changes aim to better serve and engage the residents and the community.
Stay tuned for more information in the newsletter and on the Whiskey Creek Facebook page. Your feedback on this matter is important to us, so please feel free to share your thoughts, whether in support or in opposition.
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!
The Whiskey Creek Country Club will continue to offer new menu items and food and drink specials, as well as golf specials and events. Whether it’s for a chill and affordable happy hour, tasty brunches and dinners, or social interaction and relaxation, the club is a great spot to hang out 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
Real Estate Round-Up
BOB OXNARD, REALTOR ®
WHAT’S YOUR REAL ESTATE RESOLUTION FOR 2025?
THE NEW YEAR SIGNALS A NEW BEGINNING. Many of us will make a New Year’s resolution deciding to improve ourselves in one way or another. Gym memberships are one way to get healthier. Some of us will resolve to lose weight. Homeowners often have a “wish list” or a home improvement project to complete in the new year.
As Realtors, we are often asked which home improvements add the most value to a home, especially when it comes time to sell. According to a survey by Discover Home Loans, over half of homeowners would rather renovate their current home than move to a new place. This is especially true when you love the neighborhood where you live. Whiskey Creek is a good example of a soughtafter location loved by its residents. Resale values tend to remain higher in desirable locations.
The survey said that exterior improvements tend to increase value better than interior improvements. They recommended a new garage door and entry door at the top of their value-per-
Word Scramble
ELLIE NEAL
COLORS
Erd
Leub
Greona
Ursqtouie
Clkba
Peulpr
Wonrb
Theiw
Ematgan
Virlse
Knip
Erneg
WORD SCRAMBLE SOLUTION IN THIS ISSUE
dollar list. Kitchen and bathroom remodels were third and seventh respectively; both projects can top $25K. Also on their list were a new roof, AC, and energy-efficient and storm rated windows.
Putting money into your home is a solid investment. It can often return more than the cost to improve. But even if a home improvement project returns less than the cost, it can still be one of the most satisfying investments for a family. We spend a lot of time in our home, and we may as well enjoy it as much as possible.
Reasons to consider moving to a new home include downsizing or upsizing when the family needs change. Wanting or needing a different location is also a major reason to move. Location has long been the number one criterion when choosing a home, and for good reason. A home is not portable. It is often one of the most valuable assets in a homeowner’s portfolio. The list of things to consider when choosing a location include resale value, safety, schools, conformity, convenience, and flood elevation. It is common for a buyer to quip, “If only I could have that house in this location.”
Homeowners on a budget or those planning to sell soon are better advised to choose projects that return most of the cost quickly. These lower-cost improvements start with decluttering, cleaning, painting, new bathroom fixtures, upgraded lighting, and inexpensive kitchen refreshment including hardware or cabinet refacing or a new backsplash. Investments in closet organizers and garage improvements can also pay off well, especially in Florida where we don’t have attics and basements.
I remember an old television commercial for auto repairs that warned the car owner that they could, “Pay me now … or pay me later!” The same is true with homeownership. If you don’t keep up with repairs to your home, the deferred maintenance can cost you even more when it comes time to sell. Why not enjoy the improvements while you live there?
65.8% of Americans own a home. Statistics show that two-thirds of household wealth is held in home equity and retirement accounts. Owning real estate is one of the best means of
generating and preserving wealth. This is especially true when the investment is also the home where you reside. Shelter is one of the necessities of life. However, owning a home provides satisfaction that goes beyond mere protection from the elements. Since you are reading this article in the Whiskey Creek News, chances are you are king or queen of a castle that offers more than habitation. You live in a prestigious community that is the dream of people who know Whiskey Creek by its well-built, low-density reputation. Is this the year you will improve your home and your lifestyle?
Happy New Year 2025!
If you have any questions or comments about this article or other real estate issues, please contact Bob Oxnard at whiskeycreeknews@yahoo.com.
PUNS
I have a few jokes about unemployed people … but none of them work.
WHO MAKES THE BEST CHILI IN WHISKEY CREEK? OFF
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 ,
- J u d g i n g b y t h e C e l e b r i t y J u d g e s ( 1 s t , 2 n d , 3 r d ) a n d t h e c r o w d w i l l J u d g e a s a
c r o w d f a v o r i t e ( s a m e r a n k i n g )
Crossword Puzzle
ACROSS
1. Muscle malady 6. Pack down
Norse god 14. Associated with the moon
Winglike 16. Vagabond 17. Love intensely
18. Sit for a photo 19. Lamented 20. Richest
22. Celtic language 23. Hearing organ 24. Josh 26. Relocating
30. Long-legged wading marsh bird
32. Alter 33. Fleeting
37. Lady’s escort
38. Belief system
39. Pleasant 40. Immodesty
42. Category 43. Angers 44. Symbols of authority
45. Hawaiian veranda 47. Mister 48. Wife of Zeus 49. Wasteful project 56. Wicked 57. African sheep 58. Attempted 59. Genuine 60. Waterproof cover 61. Weary 62. Declare untrue
63. Otherwise 64. Door
DOWN
1. Talon
2. Uncouth
3. Dwarf buffalo
4. Crumbling earthy deposit
5. Make-believe
6. Snouted animal
7. Balm ingredient
8. A body of matter
9. Made attractive
10. Menaced
11. 24 in a day
12. Overweight
13. Was a passenger
21. Witch
25. Type of tree
26. Wise men
27. Portent
28. Sell
29. From the inside
30. Spectacles
31. Not we
33. Coastal raptor
34. Finger jewelry
35. Anagram of “care”
36. Dregs
38. Chaste
41. U.S. spy agency
42. Strangle
44. Offer
45. Embankment
46. Anagram of “naira”
47. Marsh bird
48. A group of cattle
50. By mouth
51. Not yours
52. Smile
53. Encircle or bind
54. Lascivious look
55. Countercurrent
Whiskey Creek Country Club News
Whiskey Creek Country Club (WCCC) is looking forward to having many new members join the club whether it be by new golfing membership, new social membership or as an equity member.
The Trey Sones Golf Academy is in attendance at WCCC. Do you have some junior golfers that would like to learn to play golf? Do you need to brush up on your golf game? Sign up online, by email or text. Include your full name, age, telephone number and email. www. Treysonesgolfinstruction.wordpress.com.
Stop in Whiskey Creek Country Club and say “Hi” to our new clubhouse manager, Joe! Be sure to stay and enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by Chef JTee. Why not enjoy a day with friends both old and new and meet your neighbors … play a round of golf and then finish with a cold, refreshing drink at the bar! On many days there are lunch specials to choose from. The only day that the kitchen is closed is on Monday, but the bar menu is available.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
Dinner is served on Tuesday and Friday, 5 to 8 p.m. There is a planned entrée for Tuesday night dinner … call for details. The bar is open daily until the club is closed where you can meet with friends, family and neighbors for that refreshing beverage!
50th Anniversary golf shirts and hats are still available. There are also many new items in the WC Pro Shop. Just in case you don’t see an item that you may want to purchase, there are gift certificates available.
Pick up a brochure at the counter and see the many golf and social memberships that WC has to offer.
There are many card games and Mah Jongg games being played year-round.
Contact the club for more details at (239) 4813021.
SUDOKU PUZZLE SOLUTION
Sound Advice: Nutrition In AgeRelated Hearing Loss, Continued
MARY LOU WILLIAMS, M. ED.
Last month’s article cited two studies implicating folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiencies with age-related hearing loss. The first study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 1999, found that elderly women with impaired hearing had a significantly lower level of folate and B12 than women of the same age with normal hearing. A second study, published in the January 2, 2007, issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine, found that subjects who were given a folic acid supplement of 800 micrograms of folic acid per day for three years had a lower level of age-related hearing loss than subjects not supplemented with folic acid.
How B12 And Folate Deficiencies May Cause Hearing Loss
The cochlea of the inner ear is where much of the hearing loss in the elderly is believed to occur. The cochlea is dependent upon an adequate blood supply. It is highly vascularized and supported by a single artery. Homocysteine, a toxic amino acid, is elevated during deficiencies of vitamin B12, folate or both.
Homocysteine is believed to damage blood vessels, and high levels of homocysteine are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and strokes. The authors of the study theorized that high homocysteine concentrations, resulting from deficiencies of vitamin B12, folate or both, might also adversely affect blood flow to the cochlea. Homocysteine is toxic to the nervous system, as well, and might damage nerves in the inner ear.
Preventing And Correcting B12 And Folate Deficiencies
The first line of defense is diet. Folate is found in green leafy vegetables, including spinach. It is found in tomatoes, eggs, whole grains, citrus fruits, liver, pears, beans, nuts, potatoes, beets, cabbage, asparagus, wheat germ and many other foods in lesser amounts.
Vitamin B12 is found only in foods of animal origin: beef, lamb, poultry, pork, fish, liver, eggs and dairy.
However, vitamins can be destroyed in processing and cooking. Therefore, it is important to eat foods that are fresh, whole and unprocessed
and either raw or lightly cooked. Fresh fruit and salads are examples of foods that can be eaten raw. Vegetables should be lightly cooked. Meat, fish and poultry should not be overcooked.
The second line of defense is supplementation. The amount of folic acid in most vitamin supplements, 400 micrograms, works well enough to lower blood homocysteine levels in a week or two.
Most multivitamins contain about 10 micrograms of B12, which is adequate if vitamin B12 is being absorbed. If it is not, then B12 lozenges that dissolve under the tongue might allow adequate B12 to be absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth, thus passing the digestive tract. Since only 1 percent or 0.1 percent of vitamin B12 is absorbed in this way, the recommended dosage is 1,000 micrograms per day. It is important to consult a doctor if a B12 deficiency is suspected. Sometimes B12 shots may be necessary.
Next month’s article will be about ototoxic drugs, i.e., drugs that cause hearing loss.
Cook’s Corner FROM LINCOLN HERITAGE TRAIL COOKBOOK
INGREDIENTS
1¼ cups graham cracker crumbs
1¼ cups sugar, divided
½ cup butter, softened
2 eggs
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 (15-ounce) can blueberries, drained and reserve juice
4 tablespoons lemon juice
DIRECTIONS
Mix graham crackers crumbs, ¼ cup sugar, and softened butter. Press firmly into an ungreased 9-inch square baking pan. Beat eggs until thick. Add ½ cup sugar, softened cream cheese and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth. Pour over crumb mixture. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Sprinkle with cinnamon and cool. Mix ½ cup of sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan. Stir in ½ cup of blueberry juice and lemon juice. Cook, stirring constantly until mixture thickens and boils. Add additional blueberry juice if needed. Cook 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in blueberries. Cool. Pour over cheesecake. Chill 4 hours. Serve with whipped cream.
Note: Can use 2 cups of fresh blueberries. Use water or orange juice to make sauce.
FIRE HOUSE SALAD
INGREDIENTS
1 large head lettuce
1 medium onion
3 large tomatoes
½ pound hard German salami
8 slices Kraft sharp cheddar cheese
1 small can anchovies (optional)
Italian dressing
DIRECTIONS
Tear lettuce. Chop onions and tomatoes. Mix together. Slice salami in long strips and cheese slices into long strips and place on top of salad. Add anchovy juice to salad. Cut anchovy fillets into small pieces and add to salad. Add enough Italian dressing to coat ingredients. Marinate for 2 hours and serve with garlic bread.
Continental Women’s Club
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, February 6 at 11:30 a.m. Our planned speaker is still pending final confirmation, but we will definitely have an interesting program for you. Also plans for a special celebration are in the works for March 2025 as this is our 50th Anniversary year.
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, January 28 for meal selection and to make a reservation for our February 6 meeting.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, and membership is 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.
Liz Paul
SIGNS
MAIN THING: The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.
Whiskey Creek Ladies’ Club
LENA PRYOR
The sounds of Christmas Carols filled the air as the Tanglewood School Choir sang holiday songs at the December meeting of the Whiskey Creek Ladies’ Club. The members were enchanted by the program under the able direction of Jonathan Lawrence, the school’s choir master. The meeting was held at the Whiskey Creek CC. The tables were decorated by Cathy Trent in a Christmas theme. 33 members and four guests were greeted by Lona Leugers. President Mo Poirier opened the meeting with a flag salute and a welcome. Ellie Neal read the inspirational message, “Life is a Rollercoaster.” 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. Anyone interested in serving on this committee, should contact the president. She reminded 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 book club’s next selection was The Villa by Rachel Hawkins on Dec. 19. The WCLC Book Club meets the third Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m. There is a book discussion and lunch. New members are welcomed.
Next month’s meeting is Jan. 2. The program is Ding Darling. Lunch will be Mediterranean Quiche with Mesculin Salad and brownie with vanilla ice cream or Mesculin Salad with grilled chicken 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 24 hours 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 at 11:30 a.m. Meetings are from October to May. An interesting and informative program is presented each month. New members and guests are aways welcome. Contact Linda Jones at wcladiesclub@aol.com or call (678) 744-5461.
Lakes Regional Library
15290 BASS ROAD
FORT MYERS, FL 33919
TELEPHONE: (239) 533-4000
CHILDREN
Baby Rhyme Time, Monday, 10 to 10:30 a.m., January 27
Toddler Tales, Monday, 11 to 11:30 a.m., January 27
Family Storytime, Wednesday, 10 to 10:30 a.m., January 22 and January 29
Preschool Storytime, Wednesday, 11 to 11:30 a.m., January 22 and January 29
Kids Read Down Fines, Saturday, 2 p.m., January 25
All-Abilities Kids Storytime, 10 to 10:30 a.m., January 18
Sensory Snow Experience, 4 to 4:45 p.m., January 30
TEENS
Teen Popcorn Flavor Taste Test, 2 to 4 p.m., January 18
Kids Read Down Fines, 2 to 3 p.m., January 25
ADULTS
English Café, Monday, 6 p.m., January 6, 13, 27
A “Deep Dive” into Weeki Wachee Springs, 2 to 3 p.m., January 13
Queen Elizabeth II “Her Majesty” Performance, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., January 14
Songs of the ’60s and ’70s, 2 to 3 p.m., 2 to 3 p.m., January 15
Online Author Event with TJ Klune, 7 to 8 p.m., January 15
GIGGLE CORNER
LEXOPHILES
Book Discussion: The Wide Wide Sea by Hampton Sides, 2 to 3 p.m., January 9
Online Spanish Conversation Club, 6 to 7 p.m., January 9
Online Author Event with Seth Fishman, 1 to 2:30 p.m., January 28
Amelia Earhart: Pioneer in Aviation, 2 to 3 p.m., January 23
Download Drop-In, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., January 23
Online Author Event with Amanda Montell, 2 to 3 p.m., January 23
Online Hooked on Books, 2 to 3 p.m., January 23
Introduction to Wine, 2 to 3:30 p.m., January 25
Sound Bath Meditation, 2 to 3 p.m., January 30
CALL THE LIBRARY FOR ADULT, TEEN AND CHILDREN ONLINE EVENTS.
I finally know why they call me a grown up … I groan every time I get up.
Yard Of The Month
MARK L. FRANZER
Initially, a stacked stone wall was discussed by the residents of 1447 Claret Court for removal. Kristin and Scott Woolam toiled over but the insight of the latter prevailed, attracting this writer to investigate further. The stacked stone wall, along with the flora adornments of 20 excess years of the Fort Myers residents, enabled their love for Whiskey Creek’s friendly and aptly located social life to call “their” home, “home.” Having easy access to the beach, golfing, and the arts community engrained these two in becoming pillars of the community and a wonderful environment to raise Olivia,
1447 CLARET COURT
Claire, and Luke. Swing by 1447 and get to know your Claret neighbors, rest in the shade of their massive trees, and hear of the adventures Whiskey Creek has brought these wonderful tenants to our area!
If you have family or friends that you’d like to share details of our beloved Whiskey Creek community (or show off your hardearned 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! Go to 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.
Fort Myers Republican Women’s Club
Please join us for the January 21 meeting of the Fort Myers Republican Women’s Club at the Landings Yacht, Golf and Tennis Club. This meeting will bring to you Clerk of Court and Comptroller for Lee County, Kevin Karnes. Let’s hear what is in the works for better handling within your government. Beginning with our social and connection hour at 11:15 a.m., the meeting and lunch will start at 12 noon and our program shortly afterwards.
Visit our website www.fmrwc.com.
Enjoy The Arts In Style As An ArtFest Fort Myers VIP
Relax in comfort and style in the VIP Club the first weekend of February and enjoy three days of exclusive benefits and convenient reserved parking just steps from the art festival.
VIP Club has a spectacular location in the Caloosa Sound Event Center in the heart of the art festival.
On Friday evening, January 31, join us in the VIP Club for the Opening Night Silver Anniversary Party and enjoy culinary delights from some of our area’s finest restaurants, dessert tower by Publix, champagne tower, wine, and beer. Bruno’s of Brooklyn, The Standard, Sunqu Delights Of Peru, The Pawnbroker, So
Eventful and more serving up yummy appetizers!
The evening includes the opportunity to shop at 65 of the festival artists seeing the best-of-the-best art options. Enjoy front-row seats at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater for Symphony on the Sound, an exceptional Pops Concert by Gulf Coast Symphony from 7:15 to 8 p.m.
On Saturday and Sunday, enjoy a light brunch with grazing stations from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and bottomless mimosas. VIP Club members can stop by anytime for snacks and beverages including wine, beer, coffee.
THE VIP CLUB IS $135 PER PERSON. YOUR TICKET
INCLUDES 3 DAYS OF PERKS:
• Reserved parking all weekend just steps from the art festival
• Exclusive access to VIP Club indoor and outdoor areas all weekend
• Wine, beer, soda, and water all weekend
• Access to the Friday Opening Night Party, featuring samplings from some of our area’s finest restaurants, champagne and dessert towers, wine, and beer
• Friday Night Preview of festival artist booths
• VIP Club seating at the Symphony on the Sound Concert Friday night featuring Gulf Coast Symphony from 7:15 to 8 p.m. at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater
• Saturday and Sunday light brunch and afternoon snacks
• Private restrooms
ArtFest Fort Myers Founder, Sharon McAllister, welcomes everyone to an artful weekend. “Can you believe 2025 is the art festival’s 25th Anniversary? After 25 years of leading the art festival I look forward to this event every year. The arts change life for the better and are so important to our community in Southwest
Florida.” Sharon continued, “I am proud to be a part of this nationally award-winning art festival.”
ArtFest Fort Myers, the annual juried art festival, takes place January 31, February 1 and 2 in the downtown Fort Myers along
the riverfront. Join the experience with over 200 professional artists from across the county and around the world; the largest high school art exhibit and competition in south Florida, Chalk
Block street painting, great food, diverse entertainment on the Publix Community Stage and free interactive art experiences for children of all ages.
WHAT
Southwest Florida’s premier art festival featuring over 200 national artists, high school art competition, street chalk art competition, children’s art activities, fine food and entertainment
WHEN
February 1 and 2, Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. January 31, Friday, Opening Night, 6 to 9 p.m.
WHERE
Downtown Fort Myers along the riverfront on Edwards Drive
VIP CLUB
$135 per person; ArtFestFortMyers. com and click on VIP Club for tickets or call (239) 768-3602
COST
FREE general admission to the art festival
PARKING
VIP Club reserved parking at intersection of Monroe Street and First Street.
General parking in lots adjacent to festival, street parking and city garages. Look for bright event parking signs and flags. Trolleys available from remote lots.
2023
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Cole Peacock
RESOURCE HUB
WHISKEY CREEK CIVIC ASSOCIATION
WHISKEY CREEK NEWS
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 Sheriff 477-1000
Action Coordinator 533-9400
Animal Services 432-2083 Chamber 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
Emergency Management 477-3600
Health Dept. 332-9556
Fraud Line 477-1242
Lee County D. O. T. 533-8580
479-4636
Cross 278-3401
Transport 590-4000 Social Security Administration 1-800-772-1213 Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
of Elections 533-8683 Road & Canal Maintenance 694-3334 Tax Collector 533-6000 Utilities (Water & Sewer) 533-8181 Waste Management 334-1224
Experience ArtFest as a VIP
As a VIP, receive VIP Perks & FREE Parking ALL weekend!
CELEBRATION OF LEGACY
FEBRUARY 1 & 2
OPENING NIGHT
JANUARY 31, 6pm
Caloosa Sound Convention Center
Edwards & Monroe St. | Downtown Fort Myers
Opening Night is FREE for everyone
Enjoy and purchase some of the best artwork exhibited anywhere in Florida!
Downtown waterfront is the setting to sneak preview 60 fabulous artists
Food & Entertainment
Support the arts in this gathering of art connoisseurs just like you and enjoy all the benefits of being a VIP.
VIP Club on Opening Night, Friday, January 31
Overlooking the downtown waterfront and glorious sunset
– VIP seating at Symphony of the Sound Concert
– Gourmet hors d’oeuvres from fine local restaurants
– Wine and beer
– 60 fabulous artists
VIP Club Saturday & Sunday, February 1 & 2
– Light Brunch with grazing stations and bottomless mimosas
– All Day Beverage Bar with wine, beer, soda and water
– 200 fabulous artists
VIP Club ticket holders will also have access to VIP seating at Symphony on the Sound
A free concert performance by
$135 per person | Become a VIP today!
To
Consumer Alert
ALVARO PUIG, CONSUMER EDUCATION SPECIALIST
HOW LONG WILL YOUR SMART DEVICE GET SOFTWARE UPDATES? IT’S HARD TO KNOW
Smart devices are everywhere. Devices track our health and fitness, control our lights and thermostats, and keep an eye on our homes and pets. We pay a premium for the smart features and functionality of these products. But what happens if the manufacturer stops updating the software that makes them “smart”?
Manufacturers of smart products often push out free software updates with new features or bug fixes that can be critical for the product’s smart features to work as intended. As a consumer, knowing how long the manufacturer will update the product software could mean the difference between a product that you want and one you don’t care to have. But an FTC report revealed that many manufacturers don’t make it easy to find that information.
So, before you buy a smart product, consider if it’s worth the price. Search the product website or look on the manufacturer’s website for information about how long the manufacturer will update the software. If you can’t find it, contact the manufacturer by phone, email, or chat.
Consider how the product will work if the manufacturer stops updating the software. For example, a smart light bulb might still work the old-fashioned way, by flipping the
switch, but you won’t be able to control it remotely. But if your smart speaker can’t connect to your music streaming service, it’s not very useful.
If the manufacturer does tell you when the software updates will end, find out whether the manufacturer offers a trade-in or recycling program for used electronics.
Finally, if you buy, or already have, an internetconnected device, learn how to protect it from hackers.
