November 2013 Issue - The Villages at Country Creek

VOL. 24 NO. 11
The Villages at Country Creek, Estero, FL • www.seabreezecommunications.com
Director’s Corner
Notice
The Master Board would like to announce openings on the Architectural Review Board and on the Elections
Committee. Any member interested in being considered can submit a Committee Interest Form, which is available
at the office or on the Web site. Forms should be returned by the end of November.
Town Hall Meeting
By Paul Schlimm
On Sunday, October 20, the Master Board held its first
ever Team Building and Town Hall Meeting. The meeting
was very well attended with more than 200 members
present. I acted as moderator.
The first portion of the meeting was devoted to team
building. We reviewed the guiding principles of team
building in some detail.
• Good communications
• Increased productivity
• Motivated people
• Mutual cooperation and support to diverse opinions
• Commitment and cooperation
• Clear goals and objectives
• Solid policies and procedures
I believe that improvements in communication can and
will be beneficial to everyone. Communications should
be clear, prompt and factual. The board has already taken
several initiatives in this area by encouraging all owners
to update their personal information. We plan to make
available the names of Master Board members, committee
chairman and co-chairman, along with their phone numbers
and e-mail addresses to all residents. Last week the Board
approved both a vision statement and a mission statement
for VCC. These statements are shown separately in this
issue.
We then turned to the Town Hall segment of the meeting.
Residents were encouraged to present their comments,
questions and recommendations. Many issues were raised,
either from the floor or via comments on 3x5 cards. Many
of the questions were answered. Those discussion items
that were not answered or that needed further discussion
or action were listed on an easel. Those questions and
suggestions are as follows:
Q. Why do we charge $30 for an after hour pass to the
Fitness Room?
A. This charge is higher than the cost of producing the
card; however, it was established so holders would place a
value on its possession. The $30 charge is refundable upon
returning the card to the office.
Q. Committee reports should be communicated to not
only the board but also to the community via our Web site.
A. We hope to implement this suggestion in the near
future.
Q. Many residents have issues with Comcast. How do
we resolve these issues?
A. After contacting Comcast to have your technical
issue resolved, we ask that you contact the office so that we
can keep a record of residents’ problems. When calling the
office, give them your name, address and phone number.
No description of the technical issue is required. The
NOVEMBER 2013
office will not be involved in solving your issue. However,
we will tabulate the number of complaints registered
through November 30. We then plan to contact Comcast
management and request that they contact each resident who
has registered a complaint and confirm that the issue has
been resolved and explain what action they plan to prevent
recurrence of these issues.
Q. E-mails to the Board by members should be
considered correspondence.
A. This is not the vehicle to express your concerns,
recommendations, or questions to the Board. Rather we
ask you to use the RIF (resident Input Form). This form
is available both on our Web site and in the office. If this
form is used, it will be recorded in the office and forwarded
to the appropriate person for a response. You should then
receive a written response within 30 days.
Q. We should develop community plans for fire, security,
FEMA, etc.
A. We will add this issue as a discussion item for the
Board Workshop, and suggest that individuals qualified in
these respective fields be present.
Q. Change the payment policy for both the Clubhouse
and Pro Shop to credit card or check only.
A. The Board plans to discuss this issue and consider
making it effective in the near future.
Q. The community needs to be able to get information
on the Board Workshop agenda.
A. The Board and workshop agendas are developed by
the Board not the residents. However, it is proper for anyone
to contact a Board member with a request that an item be
included in future board workshop meetings. Sufficient
advance notice is required.
Q. Improve compliance.
A. This question needs additional clarification. The
question raised was not written on the board with sufficient
detail. My apology.
Q. How do we improve communications, either by
paper or Internet? It was recommended that Board members
representing specific associations take the responsibility of
communicating directly to their constituents.
A. The board will review this recommendation and
advise.
Q. We need to remove the old patio furniture from the
overflow parking lot.
A. This was done on Tuesday, Oct 22.
The board was very pleased with the dialogue. For the
most part, everyone was very professional, courteous and
engaged. We think the meeting was beneficial to all. As a
result the Board plans to hold another Town Hall meeting
sometime after the first of the year. We thank all who
attended and especially all those who participated.
Happy
Thanksgiving
By Phil Ward
My wife and I just arrived back to Country Creek – I
wearing a sling supporting my left arm. When I was asked,
“Did you have an accident? Your arm is in a sling.”
I said, “Yes, I have a shoulder separation. I fell out of a
golf cart.” Once the laughter subsided, I was asked, “What?
Trying to pick up a quarter? Looking for lost balls? Too lazy
to get out of the cart? You are getting old!”
I am 78 and had an accident. Most of us in Country
Creek are getting older and unfortunately prone to more
accidents. How do we prevent accidents? Google gave me
some statistics and suggestions that might prove helpful to
all of us.
1. The risk of falling increases with age and is greater for
women than men.
2. Failure to exercise regularly results in poor muscle tone,
decreased strength and loss of bone mass and flexibility.
3. At least one-third of all falls by the elderly involve
environmental hazards in the home (throw rugs, inadequate
lighting, clutter and furniture arrangement).
4. The most serious accidents usually happen on the stairs,
in the kitchen or in the bathroom.
5. Finally, often falling accidents “just happen.” Taking
care of your health, getting regular eye exams and physicals
and reducing hazards in your home may reduce your chance
of falling.
Well then, what about not falling out of a golf cart? It has
been suggested that I use a golf cart with an attached seatbelt.
Or as my 4-year-old granddaughter commented, “Grandpa,
when I ride in our car, they buckle me into a car seat. Maybe
they can make one big enough for you!”
We all know someone who has had an accident such
as slipping on a rug, falling in the bathroom, tripping on a
sidewalk, walking into a glass door or similar incidents.
Here in Country Creek we are fortunate to have a group
of volunteers called Care Bears who can provide temporary
assistance should you need help. Carol Clark heads this group
and can be reached at (239) 495-2247.
General
Manager’s Desk
By Daniel Thron, PGA, CAM
I hope those of you who spent the summer away from
VCC like what you are seeing within the community,
especially the golf course, common grounds and clubhouse.
Please take time to visit the clubhouse, say hello, have dinner
or sign up for the many activities that are coming this season.
Our team is here to serve you.
This season I would like to communicate more about our
policies and procedures in all aspects of our community. As
you settle into your homes, you probably will be looking at
the outside landscape. Most homes either border the common
grounds or the golf course. There is so much landscape to
maintain in all the common grounds and golf course at times
it is overwhelming when trying to make a decision on what
landscape belongs to whom and who has the responsibility.
Based on information received from legal counsel and
internal review, the VCC Common Grounds Committee
states our tree maintenance position as follows: Tree
and foliage maintenance is the responsibility of the
individual homeowner or Homeowner Association (HOA).
Homeowners or HOA trees may be removed with approval
from the ARB. Homeowners may trim any tree that is
within their property. Limbs and branches overhanging from
common grounds or golf course may be removed back to the
property line. Homeowners or HOA assume full financial
responsibility for all debris removal. Trees on common
grounds that are deemed potential threats to private property
may be removed. The Common Grounds Committee will
review removal requests on a case by case basis.
Page 2
~ Just Sold in Grandezza ~
D!
D!
L
SO
L
SO
D!
L
SO
Cypress Cove ~ 20043 Seadale Court ~
Listed at $380,000 ~ My seller just closed on
the sale of their beautiful home. Congratulations
to the sellers, thank you to the buyer’s agent and
welcome the new owners to Grandezza!
Cypress Cove ~ 20049 Buttermere
Court ~ Listed at $498,000 ~ My sellers
closed on the sale of their lovely home on
Buttermere Court. Thank you to the buyers
and their agent, and good luck to my sellers.
Villa Grande ~ 11546 Doddwood Drive
~ Listed at $499,000 ~ I am proud to have
represented both the buyers and sellers of this
fine home. Congratulations and thank you to
all for such a smooth transaction!
Sabal Palm ~ 20090 Seagrove St. #2104
~ $229,000 ~ Rarely available lovely 1st floor
end unit with attached garage at the best price
as of this ad deadline in all of Grandezza!
Oakwood ~ 20291 Calice Court #2103
~ $299,000 ~ Beautifully furnished 2nd floor
gem with 3 bedrooms + den, electric shutters,
panoramic eastern golf & lakes views and more!
Savona ~ 12628 Grandezza Circle ~
$399,000 ~ Lake view pool and spa home
with open great room. Seldom used by its only
owner - upgrades galore!
Villa Grande ~ 20012 Markward
Crossing ~ $599,000 ~ This great room
pool/spa home has amazing crown molding
and a custom built entertainment center +
much more! Golf views w/lush landscaping for
nice privacy.
Villa Grande ~ 20030 Markward
Crossing ~ $574,500 ~ Attractively priced
popular great room floor plan with golf & lake
views. Upgrades galore!
Grande Estates ~ 11560 Glen Oak
Court ~ $1,029,000 ~ This custom built
home by Lucarelli won an award for its interior
decorating, which is a “WOW!” A prime, quiet,
lush location, this is one of the finest & must
see quality homes ever offered in Grandezza!
I am proud to announce that the company I have been with, Prudential
Florida Realty, is now the network’s first brokerage signee becoming
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Florida Realty, the new real estate
brokerage network operated by HSF Affiliates LLC.
Rei Mesa, my brokerage’s president and CEO, said Berkshire Hathaway
HomeServices was chosen for its brand reputation, leadership and financial
strength. “The storied Berkshire Hathaway name stands for strength,
integrity and trust, and is respected world-wide,” said Mesa. “In 30 years
of real estate I haven’t experienced a brand opportunity of this magnitude.
It’s a game-changer for residential real estate.”
~ Best wishes, Alan Levi
See more of Grandezza’s active
MLS Listings and listings outside
Grandezza on my website
www.FindMyHomeinFlorida.com
Alan B. Levi, PA
Broker-Associate, GRI,
Full Time Grandezza Resident
239.464.6965 • 1.800.843.0255
4130 Tamiami Trail N. • Naples, FL 34103
2007, 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2013 Gulfshore Life Magazine
“Best in Client Satisfaction” Award Winning Agent
Page 3
Estero Fine Art Show™
12th Bi-Annual November 16 And 17
13th Bi-Annual January 4 and 5
Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Daily
At Miromar Outlets
Event Location: Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew
Road, I-75 Exit 123, Estero, FL 33928
Produced by Hot Works LLC and Institute for the Arts
& Education Inc., P.O. Box 1425, Sarasota, FL 34230; a
501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that focuses on artistry
and community enrichment; and a professionally produced
fine art fair by a show director with a national standing and
reputation. This event is juried by art professionals within
the industry. Invited artists from around the globe with all
forms of discipline for sale to the public. All art is originally
and personally handmade by the artist in the show.
Show Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
daily; free admission and free parking.
Juried Show: This fine art and craft event showcases
world-renowned artists from around the globe including
sculpture, paintings, glass, clay, wood, fiber, jewelry,
photography and more. There is something for everyone;
artwork for every budget. Focus is on technique/execution,
quality and originality. In order to attract the better artists,
there is $1,500 in professional artist awards.
Artist Demonstrations: Art demonstrations occur during
the art fair. Participants can see techniques of how some of
the art is made.
Entertainment: Various rhythmic music is played
throughout the weekend for your listening pleasure.
Youth Art Competition Call for Entries: Call for young
artists in grades K-8 or ages 5-13 to enter your art into the
Youth Art Competition. Young artists are encouraged to
submit your original and personally handmade art that will
be publicly displayed at the show all weekend. There is $250
in Youth Art Awards. The deadline to apply for fall is Nov. 1;
and for winter is Dec. 15. Youths may obtain an application
on the Web at www.HotWorks.org.
The Estero Fine Art Show™ takes place twice annually at
Miromar Outlets – in the fall on Nov. 16 and 17, and in the winter
on Jan. 4 and 5, 2014. This juried art show brings high quality
artists from around the globe and top-notch local artists to sell
their original and personally handmade artwork. The event occurs
on the southeast side of Miromar Outlets, near the intersection
of Corkscrew and Ben Hill Griffin Roads. The art fair’s main
focus is visual arts and community enrichment. The quality of
artwork is juried by art professionals in the art industry. Many of
the nation’s best artists exhibit at this show. Our goal is to create
an atmosphere that enhances the artwork and creates a relaxing
environment for art lovers. There is something for everyone.
Event hours on Saturday and Sunday are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily;
the event is free and parking is free. In addition to the great food,
there is free live entertainment from world-class favorites.
As part of our commitment to include art education in the
Estero Fine Art Show™ and the Southwest Florida community
as a whole, a youth art competition for grades K-8 or ages 5-13 is
implemented into the event. Sponsored by the Institute for the Arts
& Education Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, young artists
are invited to apply with their original and personally handmade
art as they begin to learn the rules of being part of a professional
art show and exhibition. This area is provided with prime space
within the show to display all the youth art entries. There is $250
in youth art awards: $100 Best of Youth Art and three $50 Youth
Art awards of excellence. Art programs are being dramatically
cut back and eliminated in schools nationwide, thereby further
underscoring the need for such initiatives. The program helps
teach these budding, young artists the rules and requirements of
being part of a professionally run art show and exhibition. The
students are encouraged to speak with the professional artists in
the show, and to ask them questions about participating in art
shows as a career. The show provides these students with an
unmatched learning experience. The program is a huge success.
See Art, Love Art, Buy Art! See You There!
they did. Mike was depressed for a week after that discovery.
Donning old clothes, a hat, rubber gloves and substantial
shoes, Mike brought out the stuff the man at the hardware store
guaranteed would do the trick. Home Defense. He sprayed the
baseboard in the entire house then went outside and sprayed
the base of the foundation. I breathed a sigh of relief. I could
begin making the cookie dough at last.
While planning the dough-making schedule, a group of
ghost ants quickly scooted over the gingerbread man recipe.
That was the last straw. I had had it. It was now time to take
matters into my own hands.
I grabbed my iPad.
My favorite search engine is Ask.com. I tapped the Ask app
and typed “ghost ant remedy” in search. As I perused all the
many suggestions, one stood out. Mike mentioned once that
borax was a key ingredient in ant annihilation and I printed
the instructions that included borax.
Water, sugar and borax. Boil together; make a syrup. Cool.
Place dollops of the stuff on index cards in only five places in
the house. This seemed much too easy to me, but I followed
the instructions to the letter.
The index cards were placed on the kitchen counter, in the
bathroom on the counter and in front of the shower, on my desk
and in the guest room. The directions stated to just leave the
ants alone once they visited the bait. It was awful. They came
in droves like locust. The first batch was so unsettling, I threw
the cards out. But then I reapplied and did nothing while they
amassed again. It was hard to watch the hoards of ants come
for the bait. I swear there were hundreds of thousands of them.
The next morning they were gone. Gone without a trace.
Never to return. The war of the ghost ants was over.
*****
Ghost Ant Bait
2 cups of sugar
1 cup of water
3 tablespoons of borax
Pour all ingredients into pot and place on stove on a high
heat setting. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, stirring
every four minutes. Once mixture has come to a boil, reduce
heat and allow ant bait to simmer for two minutes. Allow 10
minutes for ant bait to cool. Pour into applicator tip bottles.
Place about one teaspoon bait onto an index card. Put in area
of infestation. The ants will come in masses. Let them be,
they will bring the bait to the nest and eventually no ants will
return. A second or third application may be necessary.
‘Say Uncle!’
By Carole DiSalvo
It began shortly before the annual Christmas cookie bake
marathon.
The march of the ants. Not just any old picnic ant. No.
Ghosts ants. The tiny specks of black-and-white scurriers who
seemed to be powered by jet engines. And they were all over
the house, especially where food and water could be found.
I called Pest Masters, the local exterminators who were
well respected in our community. They came, they sprayed,
then they had to return. They returned again and again.
“You have to leave the ants alone and they will carry the poison
to the nest and the ants will die. You just need to give it time.”
I did. They never died. They kept on coming. The ghost
ants were tenacious little buggers and seemed resistant to the
professionals.
Mike bought every over-the-counter exterminating spray,
gel, liquid and solid. Then there were the ant traps, which
looked like tiny condominiums, which were placed at strategic
spots all about the house.
And still the ghost ants marched.
They were in the pantry, snacking on the opened bags and boxes
Mike left opened. (I warned him about that!) They were scampering
on the bathroom counter, after my vitamin supplements. They liked
the bananas in the bowl atop the refrigerator.
But most of all they liked the biscotti. How they found their
way in the large tin of those biscuits I will never know, but
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Page 4
Trucks And Sand And Gas Stations
By Jim Boesch, Chairperson, CRSA
What a month this has been. The best for first. U.S. 41
has now been opened for your driving pleasure. Halleluiah!
This will also allow Walmart to go forward with their project,
which they hope to complete no later than Dec. 1, 2014.
A new RaceTrak gas station has been applied for just
beyond the old Albertson’s store on U.S. 41. I don’t know
if you have seen the one on Martin Luther King Boulevard,
but it is humongous. Being the chairman of the ECCL
Transportation Committee it certainly poses a very large
traffic backup and RaceTrak is requesting an additional
entrance cut from 41 into their property, which makes this an
even more dangerous traffic jam situation. We have requested
that FDOT work closely with the Estero Planning Panel. It
is a major problem.
Sand trucks, sand trucks and more sand trucks on
Corkscrew Road. I get upset just thinking of how and why
this came about. There will be at least 400 truck trips six
days each week from 7 a.m. to most likely 4 or 5 p.m.,
running back and forth on Corkscrew Road to deliver
sand to the Collier County beaches for at least four to five
months. Yes, you read correctly bringing sand to the Collier
County beaches. Being the chairperson for the Corkscrew
Road Service Advisory Committee, this has kept me and
the Board members busy for almost one entire month. So,
first let me mention that we have met with all the four Lee
County Commissioners and everyone cannot believe the
gall of Collier County when they could go just as easily
down Rt. 29 to Immokalee Road then left to the Collier
County beaches. This is after all, a public road. And, why
inconvenience Collier County residents when they can run
the trucks through Lee County and Corkscrew Road. The
commissioners, led by Larry Kiker, are behind us 100 percent
but limited to legal action. We also met with the new Lee
County Manager Roger Desjariais. He has already asked
the Lee County Sheriff’s Department, led by Mike Scott, to
conduct ongoing inspections and speed reviews. Obviously
though, this cannot be a full-time action and that is what we
will need to get these trucks off of Corkscrew Road. Let me
also mention that when these speed exercises are conducted,
usually the police end up ticketing more residents than trucks,
so please slow down during this period.
Two weeks ago the people of Miromar Development
asked the communities on Corkscrew Road to join with
them to file an injunction against Collier County and the
truckers. Grandezza, Wildcat Run and Bella Terra as well
as the CRSA have all committed to join with Miromar to
provide up to $5,000 in support of this injunction filing. The
injunction is based on unsafe traffic conditions and unhealthy
environmental impacts. It boggles my mind when I think of
how the people from Bella Terra, Wildcat Run and others
are going to exit and enter their communities with 40 trucks
an hour running by. The danger to me is unimaginable. I
guess the leaders of Collier County believe it is better to
have someone in Lee County get hurt rather than them. How
unconscionable! The injunction offers three alternatives:
1. Use their own roads.
2. Use the Alico Road Extension on Corkscrew and go
out and in through Alico Road.
3. Truck the sand between the hours of 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
So now the battle is on. Let’s hope we can stop them
temporarily or at least until the end of the busy season. We
will keep you informed as we go forward. For now, it is my
thought that we all drive a little slower for our own safety
because, for sure, the truckers don’t believe in slowing down.
I also agree with Terry Merryfield. Let’s think twice before
we go to spend money in a county that couldn’t care less
about us.
about every airport across the country. I was coaching
my son’s 11U Traveling Baseball team that year. We won
the Minnesota State Championship and qualified for the
National Tournament in Orlando. We almost didn’t go, as
many parents were concerned, and rightly so, about having
their kids fly. But, it was also an interesting year in many
other ways. Here are some memories to take you back 11
years to 2002:
• A gallon of gas cost $1.61
• Kmart filed for Chapter 11
• President Bush created the Department of Homeland
Security
• The Winter Olympics were held in Salt Lake City, Utah
• “No Child Left Behind” was signed into law
• Michael Jackson dangled his infant son Prince Michael
II off a balcony from his Berlin hotel room
• Kelly Clarkson became the first American Idol
• Claritin, invented as a prescription medication in 1993,
became an over-the-counter allergy medication
• Enron’s accounting firm, Arthur Andersen, was
implicated in a huge accounting fraud scandal
• Republicans expanded their majority in the House and
re-took control of the Senate in mid-term elections
• Jimmy Carter became the first U.S. President, in or out
of office, to visit Cuba since Fidel Castro’s revolution in
1959
• Rescuers pulled nine miners from a 240-foot shaft in
Pennsylvania after they were trapped for three days
• Unemployment hit 6 percent, the highest mark in eight
years
• Winona Ryder was arrested for shoplifting
• Telecommunications giant WorldCom, Inc. filed for
Chapter 11 after falsely inflating profits by nearly $4 billion
• The “D.C. Sniper” killed 10 people over a three-week
period
• Angelina Jolie filed for divorce from Billy Bob
Thornton
• Vice President Dick Cheney served as the acting U.S.
President for 2.5 hours on June 29, while President Bush
underwent a colonoscopy procedure
• Tiger Woods won the Masters for the second
consecutive year
• Top Movies of 2002 were: Spider-Man, Lord of the
Rings: The Two Towers, Harry Potter and The Chamber
of Secrets, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and Ice Age
• Sports winners were: New England Patriots (Super
Bowl), Anaheim Angels (World Series), Detroit Red Wings
(Stanley Cup) and THE Ohio State University (NCAA
Football)
• We lost many celebrities in 2002. The list included:
John Gotti, Waylon Jennings, Linda Lovelace, Dave
Thomas (Wendy’s), Milton Berle, Rosemary Clooney,
James Coburn, Richard Harris, Ann Landers, Peggy Lee,
Dudley Moore, Sam Snead, Robert Urich and Ted Williams.
Flashback: 2002
By Dick Hendricks
Just the other day, I was at Beef O’ Brady’s enjoying
some wings and watching the baseball playoff game. The
usual LSOB (left side of bar) suspects were there as well:
Pops, Charlie, Richie, Jed, Tommy, Jeffrey, Mark, Mike,
Rob and Shawn. It was like a convention for sports junkies.
I noticed a flyer on the table promoting Beef’s 11th Annual
Golf Tournament and Family Day. The Estero Beef’s has
been around for 11 years, really?
With so many establishments coming and going in our
area over the years, it is refreshing to know that Peter and
Heather (Ennis) have been holding down the fort at Beef’s
since 2002, catering to families and sports junkies alike.
We didn’t purchase our piece of paradise in Stoneybrook
until 2004, so I wasn’t there when Beef’s opened its doors.
But as I read the flyer, between watching the television and
rooting for the Red Sox (sorry Charlie), I began to think
back to the year 2002.
It was a strange year for many, still coming to grips
with the 911 terrorist attacks the year before. Many people
were still leery to fly, with red and orange alerts at just
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Hwy 41 at Coconut Rd.
Women’s Legacy
Fund Presents Grant
At Fall Luncheon
Newest WLF Angels Honored
The Women’s Legacy Fund (WLF) of the Southwest
Florida Community Foundation (SWFLCF) presented $19,000
to support student mentoring at its annual fall luncheon on
Thursday, Oct. 10, at Shadow Wood Country Club.
The luncheon included an update on the SWFLCF’s first
regional call to action called FutureMakers, a mentorship
program created to help navigate graduating high-school
seniors through their next big steps into the future. This cause
was selected by the WLF’s contributors during their spring
luncheon held this past May, and their grant will provide
support to the Community Fou ndation which is partnering
with the most effective local organizations in the five-county
region to address this regional community need. One of the
partner organizations is The Foundation for Lee County
Public Schools Inc. Superintendent Nancy J. Graham, Ed.D.
was the luncheon’s keynote speaker.
“We all realize there are many issues facing our region, and
sometimes deciding where to put our efforts to affect change
can be challenging,” said Sarah Owen, president and CEO of
the SWFLCF. “This year’s Women’s Legacy Fund focus area
has the potential to change the lives of many Southwest Florida
students right now. The WLF is proving again that we, as
women, are doing more together than we could ever do alone.”
In addition, the WLF welcomed two new “Angels” who
were announced during the event. Pam Nulman honored
Bonnie Olson, and the late Herbert Conant honored his wife
Carolyn Conant, which was presented posthumously.
The Angel honorary designation is for mothers, sisters, aunts,
daughters, grandchildren, friends, loved ones and community
leaders, either living or deceased, who have had a special
impact on the lives of those around them. WLF members can
make the special women in their lives a WLF Angel with a
minimum contribution of $1,000 in their name. The contribution
is endowed in the WLF so that it lives on in perpetuity, and the
residual interest is used by the foundation to fund initiatives.
In just five years of existence, the WLF has provided
nearly $75,000 in grants to benefit people and communities
in the Southwest Florida region. Currently, the fund has more
than $270,000 in endowed funds that will continue to grow
and help fund local issues now and in the future.
The Women’s Legacy Fund is a fund of the Southwest
Florida Community Foundation, created to enable women
in Southwest Florida to direct their giving in focused and
strategic ways. The fund’s mission is to engage women
in affecting change in our community through collective
philanthropy.
The Southwest Florida Community Foundation is
celebrating its 36th year of supporting the communities
of Lee, Charlotte, Collier, Glades and Hendry counties by
connecting donors and their philanthropic aspirations with
evolving community needs. With assets of $70 million, the
Southwest Florida Community Foundation has provided
more than $56 million in grants and scholarships to the
communities it serves. During its 2012 fiscal year, the
SWFLCF granted more than $3 million to more than 100
different organizations supporting education, animal welfare,
arts and human services.
For more information about the Women’s Legacy Fund,
please call (239) 274-5900 or visit www.floridacommunity.com.
Answers: 1-F 2-F 3-T 4-F 5-T
Page 6
Treasurer’s Report
September 30, 2013
By Dave Immonen
This is a brief report this month. Restaurant sales
were $3,331 over forecast and year-to-date results were
$37,973 better than budgeted. Golf was under sales by
$572 but $17,340 better than budget for the year. All
expenses are in line and we have a budget surplus of
$130,031 for the year.
The board needs to approve the following expenditures
from the reserves:
Clubhouse reserves: to General Hotel for an ice
machine....................................................$6,052.60
Pool reserves: to Florida Pool
Professionals..........................................$10,000.00
to Florida Pool Professionals...................$5,000.00
Directory Updates
New Owners
Bailey, Laurell and Lindsay
20900 Country Creek Drive
Previously: George Jones
*****
International Capital Investment Co.
20687 Country Barn Drive, Estero, FL 33928
Previously: Ann Morando
*****
King, Wesley and Barbara
21036 Butchers Holler
Previously: Federal National Mortgage Association
*****
Rosselli, Judith A. and Patrick H.
20811 Country Barn Drive
Previously: Brain McGrath and Julie Deroin
VCC Vision And
Mission Statements
By Paul Schlimm
Recently the Villages at Country Creek Master Board
of Directors adopted the following vision and mission
statements:
The vision statement states what we want to be as a
community.
VCC’s Vision statement: “To become the premier
value-orientated bundled community in the area.”
A mission statement is the description of what
the organization does or describes the business the
organization is in.
VCC’s Mission Statement: “To preserve and enhance
the value of our community for current and future
owners by providing services in a prudent and fiscally
responsible manner that exceed expectations.”
Welcome To Villages
At Country Creek,
New Owners!
By Dale Erickson
The Communications Committee would like
to welcome the many new VCC homeowners who
purchased since the first of the year. Some of you have
already joined us on the Web site. To those of you who
have not, we encourage you to do so.
It is a great way to keep informed of the latest news
and upcoming events going on within the community.
You might be surprised how many activities are available
and how many of your neighbors are already involved.
What better way to make new friends.
If you are interested in connecting to the Web site,
this is all you have to do to gain access to resident side:
Go to http://www.villagesatcountrycreek.org. Click on
Login/Login Request, complete, and submit the form.
Within a day or two – another great thing to checkout
is Channel 95 or 195 on your television. It also carries
all event information.
Country Creek Volunteers
Incorporated
This is the first of many monthly articles you will see in
The Villager featuring one of the volunteers in the “Safety
Green” shirts. We plan to share some of the background of
our membership and inform you how their interests, hobbies
and careers have led them to volunteering at the Villages at
Country Creek.
Featured Volunteer,
Fred DePirro
By Bob Hintz
A native of Chicago and one of seven boys, Fred DePirro
served with the U.S. Army Second Division from 19481952. After service, Fred was employed with Northern
Illinois Gas Co. for 30 years and retired as manager of
construction. In 1985, Fred and his wife, Jeanne, moved
to Fort Myers Beach where he became general manager of
Outrigger Beach Resort. In 1998, Fred and Jeanne moved to
County Creek, and he began employment at Sunshine Ace
Hardware for another 13 years. Before he retired again, he
was named Employee of the Year for all six Sunshine Ace
hardware stores.
Fred DePirro
Fred was a member and officer of numerous business and
condo organizations throughout his career. He can fix just
about anything and uses his many talents while volunteering
with the VCC Volunteers Inc. In 2010, Fred lost Jeanne after
60 years of marriage. He currently resides on Coachhouse
Lane with his significant partner Carol Pfaffle.
Keep up the great work, Fred! The community appreciates
your many talents!
Restaurant News
By Bob King
October was our kick-off to another great season at the
club. With our very successful Oktoberfest and Halloween
already behind us we look forward to November and beyond!
If you haven’t already stopped by the lobby to say
“hi” to our new concierge, Suzi Rees, please do. Suzi has
already established herself as a welcoming and friendly first
impression for your clubhouse. As Suzi settles in, please look
for articles in The Villager from her moving forward. She
has become such a significant part of our team at the club in
such a short time!
Upcoming events include one of our larger events, the
Thanksgiving Buffet, on November 28. Reservations are
available from 12 to 4 p.m., every half hour. Please call early,
as we will sell out this event rather quickly. To our honored
Veterans who have served this country, we welcome you
back for our annual Pancake Breakfast on November 11. This
breakfast is “complimentary” to our Veterans. Please contact
Suzi Rees for any additional information. On Thursday, the
14th, we welcome back VCC favorite, Ron Rutz, to our
Community Night Dance. Ron always fills the house, so
please make your reservation early.
On November 16, the entire Food and Beverage Staff
would like to extend our warmest wishes to David Lucks
and Araceli Martinez, as they exchange their vows on this
special day! We couldn’t be happier! Best wishes to Mr. and
Mrs. Lucks!
The 20th brings the chefs out of the kitchen and into the
dining room for our Pasta Night! Don’t forget to sign up
for the Wii Bowling Awards Luncheon on November 23.
The annual Holiday Boutique returns to Country Creek on
November 25.
As a reminder, we are back to our weekly Breakfast Buffet
every Sunday, and as more residents return, it is wise to make
your reservations early. We’ve added $3 Bloody Marys and
Mimosas each week at the breakfast buffet!
Until next time, we wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving,
and we’ll see you in the dining room!
Charities Committee Is Looking
For Donations
By David Gallagher
Once I observed a bumper sticker on a car in Florida
that made me chuckle a little. It read, “If snowbirds are in
season, why can’t we shoot them?” One thing they have right
– there is a snowbird season. That is the time of year when
people escape the snow of the north to enjoy the warmth and
sunshine of Florida. Maybe it’s due to the fact most of us
fly down that we have acquired the “bird” part. Being from
Buffalo makes me a snowbird with a capital “S.” However,
merchants, restaurant owners, or any businessperson love us
“snowbirds.” How many times have I heard “thank goodness
for Northerners?” They cannot wait for it to be Season.
Now that we are back, we bring with us many Country
Creek volunteers and contributors, good people who are
interested in the well-being of the community. That is why
the outdoor sale held every year is such a success. That’s
the day that residents of Country Creek come out by the
hundreds to help raise money for those in need. Both year-
round residents and we snowbirds work together to achieve
a goal set by the Charities Committee.
Next year’s sale will be held on February 22, 2014. Ralph
Napolitano has been doing a great job over the summer,
picking up donations for the event. We are pretty much out
of storage space and will be renting additional space for the
rush of donations by my fellow snowbirds. It is the hope of
the committee that with the influx of new volunteers, Ralph
will be able to get some assistance on pickups. If you are
interested in helping in this area, please call Ralph or me.
Dave: (716) 866-6825 or Ralph at (239) 992-1919.
We will most likely rent storage space beginning on
November 1, so we will have lots of room for your “stuff.”
Also remember if you would like to donate and do not have
any items, you can write a check to Charities of Country
Creek and drop it off at the clubhouse with the envelope
addressed to the attention of Ron Reichert, treasurer. We
thank you in advance.
The Villages At Country Creek
Join us Monday, November 25 • 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Featuring arts and crafts made by your Country Creek neighbors and showcased in our clubhouse. This shopping
extravaganza is open to the public, so please invite your friends. Grab some lunch (10% off in restaurant) and take
care of some holiday shopping!
All sales are cash only and a portion of the proceeds will go to the Country Creek Volunteers Inc.
Page 7
In The Spotlight – Araceli And David Plan A Wedding
By Joy Evans
When you have lunch or dinner
at The Creekside restaurant, there’s
a good chance that David Lucks
or Araceli Martinez will be your
server. The smiling faces of these
two charming young people are very
familiar to Country Creek residents,
and their sunny dispositions always
help to make our dining experience
more pleasant. David and Araceli have
many reasons to smile, not the least of
which is their upcoming wedding on
November 16.
The couple met here at The
Creekside when they began working
together in 2011. When David first saw
Araceli, he thought she looked familiar.
As they got to know each other, they
discovered that they had both attended
Three Oaks middle school and South
Fort Myers high school, and they
graduated in the same class. They have
mutual acquaintances, and Araceli’s
sister actually has a picture from middle
Araceli and David
school in which they both appear. But,
as fate would have it, they never met
until both were working here.
The two of them show their
excitement when they talk about the
wedding. They will be married at St.
Leo Catholic Church, and the wedding
party will be slightly unconventional.
There will be no best man or maid of
honor. Instead, Araceli will be attended
by six little girls, ages 5 and 6, as
she walks down the aisle. David and
Araceli attended a wedding in Mexico
several months ago that featured a
similar wedding party. They were very
impressed and decided to follow suit at
their ceremony.
In addition to working between 30
and 40 hours each week and taking
care of the many wedding details,
both David and Araceli are students
at Florida Gulf Coast University.
David will graduate this December
with a degree in resort and hospitality
management. His ultimate goal is to
VCC Concierge Introduces
Travel Opportunities
Travel experts from Preferred Travel of Naples are headed
up the trail for an exciting presentation to residents of the
Villages at Country Creek. The event will be held in the
Club Dining Room on Wednesday, November 6 from 4 to 6
p.m. You are cordially invited to attend an evening of travel
featuring numerous cruise lines, travel experts and a wide
variety of hosted and group departures.
Since opening its doors in 1984, Preferred Travel of
Naples has become one of the leading and most awardwinning travel agencies in the region. The agency has grown
from three employees to over 50 travel specialists. Today,
Preferred Travel of Naples is the largest travel agency in
Southwest Florida. Next year marks their 30th anniversary
of providing expert travel and excellence in service along
with a strong community commitment to Southwest Florida.
Wilma Boyd, president and CEO, has been recognized for her
contributions to such organizations as the Naples Chamber
of Commerce, the EDC, Junior Achievement, the Shelter
for Women and Children, and the Naples Philharmonic
League. She currently serves on the board of the Latchkey
League. She was recently honored as the first recipient of
the Mamie Tooke award presented by the Naples Chamber
of Commerce.
Preferred Travel of Naples has received numerous local
and national awards. The agency has been named Florida
Weekly Best of the Best, Gulfshore Life Best of the Gulfshore,
and the Naples Daily News Choice Star recipient among
other honors. The president and CEO, Wilma Boyd, and the
manager, Olga Placeres, have both been named Gulfshore
Business Best Boss. On a national level, the agency has been
recognized as a Regent Seven Seas Top Producer, a member
of the Seabourn Pinnacle Club and the Abercrombie & Kent
Top 100 Club, and a Silversea Alliance Award winner.
Plan to join the experienced and well-traveled consultants
of Preferred Travel and their special guest, Jackie Thompson,
district sales manager of Celebrity Cruises for an informative
discussion of cruising and tips for enhancing your cruise
experience. Holland America, AMAWaterways, Princess
Cruises and several others will also be featured.
Please R.S.V.P. to Suzi Rees at (239) 947-2050.
manage a country club. Araceli’s plan is to graduate in
December 2014 with a degree in biology. She then intends
to earn a degree in veterinary science.
The two are very resourceful. They found a way to earn
their college degrees without incurring the crushing debt so
many students have to take on. Both are Florida residents,
which allows for in-state tuition. In addition, because of his
high grades, David received several scholarships. Araceli
chose to attend Edison State for the first two years. Through
prudent planning, they will be able to buy a house in which
to begin their married life.
Knowing David and Araceli, whose name means “altar in
the sky” in Latin, is a pleasure for Country Creek residents,
and I’m sure I speak for one and all when I extend our very
best wishes for a wonderful life together.
Care Bears Can
Provide Help
The Care Bears continue to be of service to those in the
community who need temporary help. When they cannot
help, they are a source of information for agencies that will
help. The most frequent source is the Elder Help Line, a
number that we should all keep – 1 (866) 413-5337. Another
service is sharing equipment such as walkers, crutches,
wheelchairs, etc.
Chair: Carol Clark, 495-9851
Estate Homes: Steve DeFrank, 390-0741
Other Single-Family Homes: Mary Ann Moyer, 495-2247
Condos: Don Miller
Villas: Don Ernst
Manor Homes: Carol Clark
In Memoriam
Joanne Meta, 77, Blacksmith Forge, passed away
October 12, 2013, at Heritage Valley, Sewickley, PA.
Born in Ohio, Joanne graduated from St. Veronica High
School and attended Duquesne University. She formerly
worked for Info Age Computer School and Garfield
Business School as an accountant.
Joanne is survived by her husband, Anthony Meta
D.Ed, two sons, a daughter, and six grandchildren.
Services were held in Pennsylvania. Contributions may
be made in her name to Sisters of St. Joseph Retirement
Fund, 1020 State St., Baden, PA 15005.
Nancy Cormier, 79, Coachhouse, died on
October 15, 2013. A memorial will be scheduled at
a later date.
It’s Easy To Help Feed The Hungry
In Our Communities
Please read the poster on the WINK
News Hunger Walk for the Harry
Chapin Food Bank. This organization
provides food to all the local food
pantries to help supplement the daily
food needs of many families in our
community. You can help meet this need
in one of several ways by participating
in some manner in this event.
At the top of the scale is going
t o t h e H C F B We b s i t e w w w.
h a r r y c h a p i n f o o d b a n k . o rg a n d
following the instructions to register
as a walker on one of the teams or as
an individual participant. Then solicit
your friends and neighbors to sponsor
your walk monetarily.
If you prefer not to walk and solicit
funding support, but wish to make a
contribution, then also go to the Web site
and follow the instructions to register a
pledge using your credit card. You can
click on any individual or team link to
connect you directly to their pledge
page and register your donation to their
credit. For those of you in the Estero
and San Carlos Park areas, please
consider registering with the Interfaith
Charities team. Then your donations
give this organization credits at HCFB
to provide food to the clients of our local
community food distribution pantry.
“SERVICE
ABOVE
EVERYTHING”
JOYCE LOYND
239-851-2515
[email protected]
BOTH A
COUNTRY CREEK
RESIDENT AND A
REALTOR
YOUR
NEIGHBORHOOD
REALTOR FOR
OVER 15 YEARS
SPECIALIZING IN
BOTH LISTINGS
AND SALES
I work jointly with the Real Estate Community
and the Multiple Listing Service.
Page 8
Bonita Bay Women’s Bible Study
By Robin Peck
Welcome to Bonita Bay Women’s Bible Study!
We are a diverse group of women representing major faith
traditions, residing in Bonita Bay as well as in the broader
community.
All women are warmly welcomed to see what we offer.
Whether you are new to the area, new to the study of the Bible,
or already a seasoned student, there is a place for you to study
with us as we learn to apply God’s truths to our daily lives.
Please join us as we learn, laugh and grow together!
Fall 2013 Study: Jesus Christ, What Did He Teach? Part 2
This study is designed for both new and continuing
students, as we again learn more about God through the
best representation of God himself, Jesus Christ. If you
were with us last fall, we will be continuing using the
lessons in the series. Each lesson is complete unto itself,
making it convenient for new students to join in. In this
series participants will gain new insight into Jesus through
what he taught as well as through his style of teaching. The
study involves some homework and a unique opportunity
for stimulating discussion and friendship building in the
comfortable atmosphere of a private home. Please feel free to
come for all or just some of the lessons as your fall schedule
dictates!
Lead by Marilyn Parkhill and Carol Roberts at the home
of Dee McClay in Bonita Bay.
Dates: Wednesday, Nov. 13 and 20 from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
For questions and to register for this fall study, contact
Robin Peck at (239) 676-5460. There is no fee.
Mark Your Calendars For 2014!
2014 Winter Welcome Coffee: Wednesday, Jan. 15,
2014, 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Bay Presbyterian Church.
Meet new and old friends as we gather over coffee and
treats, enjoy some surprises and hear about and register for
the winter studies. The registration fee is $20. Scholarships
are available.
2014 Winter Bible Study Offerings starting on Jan. 21
and 22:
Tuesday morning: Eight-week Fruit of the Spirit study
lead by Marilyn Parkhill and Carol Roberts.
Wednesday morning: Seven-week study of David in
first and second Samuel taught by Wendy Stutzel.
Wednesday afternoon: Seven-week New Testament
study of Luke taught by Donna Roberts.
We hope that you can join us for one or more of these
stimulating studies!
For questions contact: Robin Peck at (239) 676-5460.
*Cookbook Update: The new cookbook created by the
Bonita Bay Bible Study and friends, called Bouquet of Hope,
is now ready for purchase at either the Bonita Bay concierge
or at Joann’s House. All proceeds support Hope Hospice and
checks for $25 should be made out to them.
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Page 9
Dance, Laugh And Give
Back At Blue Martini
On Nov. 14, Blue Martini and Off The Hook Comedy
Club are sponsoring “Dance, Laugh and Give Back,” a
fundraiser benefiting The Southwest Florida Performing
Arts and Cultural Learning Center, SWFL-PACLC, a 501(c)
(3) nonprofit corporation, that was founded as a vehicle for
underprivileged youth to participate in the performing arts.
The event will take place between 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at
the Blue Martini at Mercado, located at 9114 Strada Place,
Suite 12105 in Naples. The fundraiser will feature live music,
stand-up comedy from comedian Janet “The Tennessee
Tramp” Williams, a raffle, and an assortment of hors d’oeuvres
throughout the night. All ticket and raffle proceeds will benefit
the SWFL-PACLC, which will offer performing arts programs
such as culinary, theater and media production to all children
in Southwest Florida, for little, and eventually, no cost.
The fundraiser is 21 and over, and tickets are $25
a person. Tickets can be purchased online at www.
SWFLPACLC.org or by calling (239) 676-0785.
About SWFL-PACLC
The Southwest Florida Performing Arts and
Cultural Learning Center, SWFL-PACLC, a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit corporation, that was founded as a vehicle for
underprivileged youth to participate in the performing
arts. The organization’s mission is to provide a world-class
interdisciplinary performing arts and cultural learning
center that supports community learning through laughter,
drama, music and the visual arts in Lee and Collier counties.
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Page 10
Bonita Springs Has A Lot To Be
Thankful For This Year
By Patrice Shields
The Centers for the Arts of Bonita Springs have just added
a whole list of activities, events and classes for November
and December that will keep you thankful all year.
On Friday and
Saturday, Nov. 15 and
16, join the CFABS
Youth Players as they
p r e s e n t , M r. To a d ’s
Mad Adventures at the
Centers for the Arts
Bonita Springs. Mr.
Toad’s Mad Adventures
i s a d e l i g h t f u l n e w CFABS Youth Players Present
v e r s i o n o f K e n n e t h “Mr. Toad’s Mad Adventures”
G r a h a m e ’s a l w a y s popular The Wind in the Willows, adapted by Vera
Morris. Toad of Toad Hall is an eccentric but likable chap
given to “crazes.” His latest craze involves motorcars.
Unfortunately, he smashes them up as fast as he gets them.
He even steals one for a wild ride over the countryside.
Naturally, this gets him into a great deal of trouble. His
dear friends Badger, Rat and Mole do their best to help,
but their efforts aren’t enough. This enchanting adaptation
has been beautifully written for audiences young and old.
Once you meet mad Mr. Toad, you will never forget him.
Tickets for this madcap romp are $10 for adults and $5
for youth and students. Proceeds benefit the Center for
Performing Arts opening in January 2014.
Jewelry lovers can
Bling It On, on Nov. 20
from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
During this session you
will create a Beaded
Cabochon necklace. The
evening will start with
wine, something tasty to
eat, and time to meet new
friends and greet familiar
ones. At the end of the
class, each participant
will leave with a bracelet Bling it On at the Centers for
and earrings. You can the Arts
Bling It On for $50 per
person, which includes all materials, wine and dinner.
’50s night with Night Train
On Nov. 22, at 7 p.m., join Joe Marino and Night Train
as they bring a repertoire of old favorites to the Centers
for the Arts outdoor stage. Dance to the timeless music of
the ’50s as Night Train performs jazz standards and early
Rock ’n Roll hits. (*Rain date Dec. 5) Our opening act,
“Improv Anonymous” warms up the crowd with comedic
scenes and games based on suggestions from the audience.
Great food, wine, beer, and refreshments are available.
Tickets are $20 for members of the center and $25 for
nonmembers in advance of the show. All tickets are $30
on the day of the show. Proceeds benefit the Center for
Performing Arts opening in January 2014.
Monday nights are movie nights at the Centers for the
Arts.
Join fellow film lovers in the Center for the Arts of
Bonita Springs’ cozy space to watch films on their large
screen. The space is furnished with comfortable chairs
and tables. Refreshments are available, including wine
and nonalcoholic beverages, snacks, popcorn, etc. Doors
open at 6:30 p.m. and films begin at 7 p.m. Be sure to join
their lively, fun and entertaining film discussion after each
film, led by a film society chairman and a film society
member. On Nov. 11, the Center presents the French film
The Butterfly. The film follows Julien, an aging widower,
who is a passionate butterfly collector. Elsa, an 8-year-old
girl, with her mother, a very young woman named Isabelle,
just moved into his apartment building. The mother is
usually away, leaving her daughter alone for long periods
of time, and Elsa starts visiting Julien. On Nov. 18, follow
the story of Vanya, a 6-year-old orphan living in a rundown
orphanage in a remote Russian village. For Vanya and the
other children, life is without hope, unless, of course, they
are adopted by wealthy foreigners, in the Italian film The
Italian. On Nov. 25 enjoy the Belgian film, The Kid with
a Bike. The film tells the story of a boy abandoned by his
father and left in a state-run youth farm. In a random act
of kindness, the town hairdresser agrees to foster him on
weekends. Tickets are $9 per person and are available for
advance purchase or the day of the film.
On Dec. 5 from 5:30
to 8:30 p.m., you can
learn to paint “Guests in
a Gallery” and have fun
with friends at the same
time. At Alla Prima,
Alla Fun, painter Patty
Kane will walk you
step-by-step through
the painting process.
Join friends for pizza,
wine and painting. Since
Alla Prima is a style of
completing a painting
in one session, you will Alla Prima, Alla Fun “Gallery”
have a masterpiece to
take home at the end of the evening. The evening includes
paint, brushes, canvas, aprons, wine, pizza and guidance
and costs $45 per person.
Mark your calendars for a night of “Dinner and Dancing
Under the Stars,” on Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. as the Centers for
the Arts brings you the music of Southwest Florida Big
Band. The evening includes a served selection of culinary
samplings provided by Russell’s Catering, along with
music made for dancing and reminiscing. Champagne,
wine, beer and other beverages are available. Tickets
include dinner and the performance and are $45 for
members of the center and $50 for nonmembers in advance
of the show. All tickets are $55 on the day of the show.
Proceeds benefit the Center for Performing Arts opening
Bonita Springs Has A Lot To Be Thankful For on page 11
Films for Film Lovers
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Page 11
Bonita Springs Has A Lot To Be Thankful For from page 10
in January 2014.
Bonita Springs residents and visitors can add one more
thing to their gratitude list this year. The Centers for the
Arts Bonita Springs recently announced the opening of
a 29,000-square-foot Performing Arts Center on Bonita
Beach Road in January of 2014. The new campus features
a 400-seat auditorium that will offer dance, music,
community and youth theater performances. Workshop
space providing hundreds of visual artists opportunities
to study with master artists along with youth and adult
theater programs, summer camps and after school classes
that will be held in the main building classrooms. A
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Springs will continue “Dinner and Dancing Under the
to offer adult education Stars”
classes in a large and
growing variety of artistic disciplines as well as exhibitions
throughout the year. With big changes around the corner,
the Centers for the Arts continues to offer a wide variety
of events, classes and activities on their campus during
the months of November and December.
Join one of the many classes offered at the Centers for
the Arts Bonita Springs beginning the week of Nov. 18.
Classes include: painting, singing, sculpture, mastering the
potter’s wheel, theater improv, photography, introduction
to metal and many more. You don’t have to be a member to
enjoy all of the activities at the Centers for the Arts Bonita
Springs. Those who become members receive discounts
on classes, shows and other events.
Those who join the Centers for the Arts for the first time
will receive two free VIP guest tickets to one of their “Live
at the Center!” performances. The Centers for the Arts
offers this promotion for first-time members for individual
membership levels and above. Call the Centers for the
Arts at (239) 495-8989 for more information.
A full list of Center for the Arts classes is available
online at www.artcenterbonita.org or by calling (239)
495-8989.
Page 12
Golf Course Management Companies Merge
By Peter Hill, Chairman and CEO
Billy Casper Golf
I am happy to announce that Billy Casper Golf has merged
with Kitson & Partners Clubs, your present golf management
company, under the BCG name. This means our firm has
assumed K&P golf management and consulting contracts.
Both companies are similar in client, customer and employee-
From Your Golf Pro
By Chuck Hunkins, PGA, Head Golf Professional
It’s nice to see all of the friendly faces make their way
back to Florida. Hopefully you practiced up this summer,
because the golf course is in great shape and lots of
activities are coming up. Don’t plan on too much rest.
We have a new handicap computer, dedicated to
posting scores. This will make it more convenient for
you to post a score, even if the Pro Shop is in the middle
of scoring a tournament. Plus it’s a lot more fun since
it’s all touch screen now. This update to the software also
makes it easier to post scores from home, and soon they
will have an app to allow you to post scores from your
smartphone. Gotta love technology!
Speaking of technology, in the Pro Shop we got in a
cool little GPS unit, about the size of a book of matches,
which talks to you. It clips to your belt, you push a button,
and it tells you the distance to the middle of the green.
Press the button, hold it and you get the distance to the
back of the green. A couple taps and you get the front.
That’s really nice for about $150. We also got a little bit
of ladies’ tennis wear in with more to come. Stop in and
let me know what you think. I am not a tennis player, so
your advice is appreciated.
The men’s silver flight has proven so popular, that
we are going to extend that to include Monday Skins.
There will be two flights, the blue tees and silvers. To
be eligible to play the silvers, you need to be at least 70
years old and a handicap above 20. Till next month…
Welcome!
When you go to the clubhouse office, be sure to
say hello and welcome to Trish Caccamo, our new
administrative assistant.
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focused approaches. That’s a key reason this partnership will
be successful.
In this vein, we are very excited to welcome you to our
family! BCG is known for its inclusive culture and resultsorientation with a support network that’s second to none.
Our team members have contributed considerably to growth
of the properties they manage. In turn, career development
opportunities abound as BCG owns and operates more than
150 golf courses, country clubs and resorts in 29 states.
Hall of Fame golfer Billy Casper co-founded BCG with
my business partner, Bob Morris and me in 1989. It is Billy’s
values that help guide the operation of our company; he is a
great man and friend.
Our vision has always been to be the best operator in the
history of golf. Your ideas and hard work will greatly impact
us achieving this together!
I look forward to meeting you soon and learning more
about you and your goals.
Over-seed Best Management Practices
By Ron Wonderling
We would like to take this opportunity to discuss the
upcoming over-seeding of the VCC golf course. There will
be several changes this year to the procedure in order to have
a more successful stand of rye grass for the winter season.
The golf course will be closed on Monday, November 11
for the application of the seed. The remainder of the week
(November 12-17) will be cart path only to minimize tracking
of the seed and rutting of the fairways since we must water
heavily in order for the seed to germinate.
The second week (November 18-24), carts will be allowed
in the rough. Traffic must stay off the juvenile seedlings in
the fairway until they take root and become more resilient.
During the first two weeks of establishment, it is paramount
to water the seed heavily and frequently. The maintenance
staff has worked with the Pro Shop to block off various tee
times to allow for these watering cycles. Please be aware that
the irrigation will be running and be patient, as the cycles
will last only a few minutes.
The last thing that will affect playability of the course
is the tee marker setup. In order for the tees to have a good
establishment of rye grass, the markers will be forward on
their respective tees during the first two weeks. Once the seed
has been mowed, the markers will be moved routinely, and
the front of tees will be re-seeded. Please make sure divots
are being filled during this time, as all play will be from a
very small area for an extended time.
There will be changes to this year’s program. We will be
seeding the same areas as past years with the exception of
the collars. Many of you may have seen that we’ve expanded
the collars this past summer for a new look and to allow
different shot selections around the greens. There are several
agronomic reasons for not applying seed to these areas, such
as better transition, a buffer zone for weed/over seed from
tracking onto greens, and most importantly, healthier fringes.
• The first step in the
process is applying a preemergent herbicide to keep
the seed from tracking into
the roughs and collars. This is
accomplished by a mixture of
spraying and using a spreader.
The end result is nice, defined
edges of tees and fairways. We’ve changed chemistries of the
pre-emergent in order to help with the past problems of undesired
tracking of seed.
• The next step is the
application of the seed. This
year we have contracted out
the fairways. They have a
specialty seeder that injects
the seed. This will give us
better distribution of seed and higher germination rates.
Please remember we will be closed November 11 for the
application.
• The last difference in
the program is the irrigation
during play. We will try to
minimize the effect that it
has on play by running short
watering cycles.
We understand that there
are some minor inconveniences associated with this new
procedure. However, we feel the outcome of the program
will result in a higher quality product for you to enjoy for this
season. We would like to thank you for your understanding,
and as always if you have any further questions, you can e-mail
me at [email protected], mail to: [email protected].
Golf Committee News
Major Plans For Winter
Are Approved
By Dave DeLorenzo
At its October meeting chaired by Dick Oelkers, the
Villages of Country Creek Golf Committee was updated
on plans for two major winter projects: renovation of the
maintenance area and installation of a four-bay practice area.
The costliest will be the maintenance area, which is mandated
to comply with environmental standards. The most visible
will be the practice area to the left of the existing netting.
VCC General Manager Dan Thron gave an overview
on the maintenance area project, saying two bids had been
received. Hopefully work will continue throughout the
winter. VCC was advised that its facilities, especially the
wash down for equipment and the chemical storage areas,
needed drastic updates. This will include construction of a
new building for chemicals.
The practice facility upgrade is long overdue. Pro Chuck
Hunkins has compiled information on possible equipment and
construction materials. The existing facility will be eliminated.
Plans are for the new modern practice area to have the latest
components, such as a soft hitting area that will also allow tees
to be used. Each of the 5- by 10-foot bays will be partitioned for
safety purposes. The Volunteers Inc. will be involved in some
of the work on this project, continuing its vast contributions to
the community. Plans for both projects were to be presented
to the Master Board in November.
Course Superintendent Jason Ellis reported the “goose
grass” problem continues. Laborers completed covering the
entire course to remove as many roots as possible, but some
were already returning. This probably will necessitate calls
for volunteer work groups throughout the winter.
All three felt the course was in its best shape in many years
through the efforts of staff and assistance from the management
company, which has officially changed to Billy Casper Golf.
The new firm will give broader purchasing power as the largest
golf course management firm in the nation as well as its staff
expertise in agronomy and other areas.
Returnees will see the trees trimmed and a revamped ice
water dispensing area. New flowers will be planted around
the course in November.
Jason Ellis morphed
i n t o B i l l M u r r a y ’s
Caddyshack character,
Carl Spackler, over a
hectic period in October.
It seems the mole
problem that existed
around the 16th hole last
season had returned, and
Jason was determined to
win his battle with the
pesky varmint(s).
Our
course
superintendent reported
at the October Golf
Committee meeting that
evidence of the mole
invasion had resurfaced
and all measures – except VCC Greens Superintendent
the use of dynamite ala Jason Ellis installs a mole
the lovable Spackler’s trap in front of the 16th
method of attack in green, Oct. 15. The previous
the popular 1980s film day he captured one of the
– were being used, varmints on the 15th hole. Of
including traps.
course, Jason is wearing his
In the meantime, the “Carl Spackler” hat to get in
moles created a rather character.
extensive underground
“railway system” that was evident throughout the green
area. Ellis thought the problem had been solved, but
obviously it had returned.
Therefore, upon your return, if you notice a character
stalking around the 16th during the day or night, do not
be alarmed – it is Bill Murray making a visit as a mole
exterminator.