Ale Tales And Lager Lore
DIANE BOTHFELD, CERTIFIED CICERONE ®
It’s March and that brings the St. Patrick’s Day holiday – a day known for beer drinking! There are two beer styles associated with Ireland – Stout and Irish Red Ale. No green beer here – the food coloring does not add anything to beer. Let’s discuss these styles and some food pairings.
Now stouts have many more variations, and some are more aligned with Ireland and some with England, as well as other countries. The flavors
distinguish these stouts from one another. The Irish versions of stout are Irish Stout and Irish Extra Stout. Irish Stout has a black coffee bitterness from the dark roasted malts used in brewing. For a dark ale, Irish Stout is very light in body and low in alcohol! A great example is Guinness Irish Draught or Murphy’s Irish Stout. It pairs well with traditional Irish specialties like corn beef and cabbage and Irish stew, which sometimes has Guinness as an ingredient.
Irish Red Ale is an amber to reddish ale with malty flavors of caramel and toffee-like notes. There is very little bitterness or hop flavors – an easy drinking beer for a beer centered holiday. It pairs well with many foods and is on the menu at most Irish pubs. Two great examples are Smithwicks Irish Red and Killian’s Irish Red.
Irish Extra Stout is the big brother to Irish Stout with more bitterness and more roasted malt flavor – more like espresso but also having some notes of bittersweet chocolate. This ale is also higher in alcohol. Irish Extra Stout can pair with the main dishes mentioned above, but also a dark chocolate dessert. Two great examples of this ale are Guinness Extra Stout or Porterhouse XXX.
Arthur Guinness started brewing in Dublin, Ireland in the late 1700s with a porter and the first stout brewed and marketed was in 1810. The history shows that Arthur Guinness secured a 9,000-year lease at St. James Gate in Dublin on December 31, 1759. This is a great tourist attraction now in Dublin and the tour includes an ale at the end! There is a Netflix series on the Guinness Family called the House of Guinness showcasing the first generation after the founder. Get a Guinness and grab a seat!
Guinness has been called the “blonde in the black dress” for the looks of a well poured black pint with a thick foamy blonde head in a curvy tulip pint glass. Guinness is sold worldwide and is a great example of the stout style.
Two stouts of English origin are less bitter and more smooth – Sweet Stout, also called Milk Stout, and Oatmeal Stout, which both originate from England. Sweet Stout has flavors of coffee and cream and in some varieties, chocolate milk. There are still roasty flavors but not as bitter as the Irish stouts. The ale is brewed with lactose (milk sugar) which ale yeasts cannot ferment. The resulting ale has a sweetish taste and a fuller mouth feel. This ale can connect with milk chocolate-based desserts
but also some English foods like Bangers and Mash. A great example of this ale is Left Hand Milk Stout.
Oatmeal Stout is an English Stout style brewed with oatmeal. Oatmeal’s biggest contribution in the ale is mouthfeel. This stout is smooth and silky on the tongue with some coffee bitterness but also a toasty nutty flavor. Pair up an Oatmeal Stout with a traditional Shepherd’s Pie made with ground lamb. Two great examples of this style are Samuel Smiths Oatmeal Stout or Young’s London Stout.
The stout style is also brewed in the Caribbean – Tropical Stout, and by American Craft
brewers – Imperial Stout. Some examples of Tropical Stout are Dragon Stout and Jamaican Stout. These are very malty but much less bitter – almost a rum-like flavor. Some examples of Imperial Stout are North Coast Old Rasputin Imperial Stout and Bells Expedition Stout. These beers are very high in alcohol, with flavors of molasses and dried fruits and many are aged in the bottle for a period of time.
Experiment with these ale styles to match up to your traditional Irish foods this St. Patrick’s Day. Enjoy an Irish Red Ale or a Stout with your celebration and leave the green beer alone! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Cross Creek Travelers
SAVANNAH – JEKYLL ISLAND – BEAUFORT, MARCH 2 TO 6, $795
– DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
• Transportation on a top-quality motorcoach restroom and video equipped
• Four nights lodging in Savannah area
• Eight meals including four breakfasts and four dinners
• Guided tour of gorgeous Savannah with hop-on-hop-off privileges
• Guided tour of historic Beaufort, S.C. “Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands” plus a visit to Paris Island
• Evening show at famous Savannah Theatre
• Guided tour of St. Simons Island
• Guided tram tour of Jekyll Island
Call Kathy Bonick at (309) 265-7241 for your reservation with only a $75 deposit per person or email at kathyhike17@yahoo.com.
Crossword Puzzle
23. Secluded valley 24. Belch
25. One less than 10
26. Dry 27. Puncture 28. Against 29. Animal companion
30. Invoices to pay
Flashy
Earth tone
Small piece of cloth
A cooperative unit
58. Color of most grasses
59. Rip up
Kneecap
Destroy the interior of
Snobs
Blood vessel
Nerve junction
1. Ointment ingredient
2. Blink of an eye
3. Cut grass
4. Mid-month days
5. Duration
6. Tapped without swinging
7. Pale
8. Towards the back
9. Addition
10. Mostly white aquatic bird
13. Breathes noisily while sleeping
14. Cease
15. Sporting venue
16. Nonreaders
19. Wading bird
22. Not one or the other 24. Fortify
26. Abbey area
27. Not hers
30. Pleads
32. Arrange (abbrev.)
33. Record company
34. Candidly
35. Discontinuing
38. Knickknack holder
39. Foretold
40. Foggy
42. Received
44. D D D
45. Thigh armor
48. Tube
49. Young woman
50. Curve
53. Driveway surface
55. Craggy peak
Notes From The Master Board
March is predicted to be a fabulous month in Cross Creek!! Although I’m writing this on cold, rainy day in February I have high hopes that cold weather will move on soon.
Highlights:
• It seems we just kicked off the season and <snap> here we are wrapping up the Bocce League season and preparing for the Farewell Dinner for our seasonal residents as they journey back home. There is still plenty going on though so be sure to reserve early for events to avoid disappointment.
• In January we welcomed a new member to the Cross Creek staff. Lory Boyd is the new communications assistant. You can find her Tues.-Thurs. in the Admin. Office or email her at Lory@crosscreekfl.com. If you want to be added to the mailing list Lory would be happy to help you out.
• Lakes Project Update: Lake 14 (Hole 16) is complete except for the placement of some sod along the cart path. That area is being reviewed for an expanded irrigation to support the new sod. Lake 12 (Hole 14 and 15)
The initial bank leveling is nearing completion. The contractor will then move on to stabilizing the lake bank work. As part of this particular project, the 36” storm water pipe in lake 12 (northwest corner) is going to be inspected and repaired as necessary. The contractor, engineers, Master board reps, and individual associations have all been in communication. As always, respect all the staging areas and steer clear of active work zones. We appreciate your patience.
Golf Course: Our greens continue to be in less-than-ideal shape and Matt and the grounds crew are working diligently to treat the soil and neutralize the water conditions that developed due to a change in county/state regulations. The water treatment facility rerouted
the reclaimed water from our lakes directly into our wet well system, and water tests that came back recently indicate a high concentration of chlorine in the water we use on the golf course and greens, plus a high acidic level in our lake water. The water also contains harmful salts and bicarbonates that affect the pH and bind up nutrients.
We continue to treat the areas, and are working on determining additional methods of correcting the imbalance through soil treatments. Unfortunately, we cannot control the chlorine being flushed into our wet well but are trying to find solutions to treat and dilute that water before being used on the course.
Pro Shop: We are actively searching for a new Manager of Golf Operations and are not planning on hiring a PGA Pro at this time. As it currently stands, Rod Kooker, PGA Professional, is conducting clinics and giving lessons to our members with great success. The staff in the Pro Shop are handling the everyday duties and special golf events very efficiently and the season is going quite smoothly. The status of the present plan and its success will be reviewed after high season is over.
• The Cross Creek Annual Meeting will be taking place on Thursday, March 26.
Mary Peabody, Director on behalf
of the Master Board
Card News
BRIDGE WINNERS
FRANK MARANTO
Jan. 5
Jan Trusdell and Jim Zernzach 4370
Judy Brouwer and Estelle Snyder 3360
Frank Maranto and Carol Richardson 3190
Jan. 12
Julie Becknell and Yvonne Mostowy 3840
Jim Zernzach and Arline Oberst 3840
Carol Richardson and Mary Fennick 3830
Jan. 19
Arline Oberst and Karen Rice 3810
Paula Maranto and Tricia Sturm 3720
Steve Little and Marty Lydecker 3690
Frank Maranto and Ralph Gordon 3460
Jan. 26
Julie Becknell and Yvonne Mostowy 3750
Ralph Gordon and Loretta Burton 3560
Paula Maranto and Tricia Sturm 3340
Jim Zernzach and Bob Thompson 3140
PINOCHLE WINNERS
BEV APPLEGATE
Jan. 5
Ken Schultz 701
Kathleen Guillemette 700
Joe Spinelli 699
Jan. 19
Bev Applegate 682
Joe Spinelli 643
Ken Schultz 642
Jan. 26
Joe Spinelli 640
Tara Romanchuk 628
Kathleen Guillemette 546
Cross Creek
Mah-Jongg
Come join the Mah-Jongg group on Mondays, starting on January 5, 2026 at 1 p.m. in the Cross Creek Clubhouse.
All are welcome. If you want to learn to play, we will teach you. Call Jan Truesdell for information at (513) 254-0750.
HAND AND FOOT
Jan. 12
Cheryl Casciano and Ro McCarthy 11,715
Carol Shulack 7,635
Cathy Donovan and Sandy McGuire 1,230
Jan. 19
Cathy Donovan and Hope Ress 14,190
Julie Kratt and Marilyn Dwyer 12,695
Gerri Baglien and Lorrie Schwark 16,945
Jan. 26
Marilyn Dwyer and Pam Mager
Feb. 2 Pam
Poet’s Corner
RED BIRD
MARY OLIVER
Red bird came all winter
Firing up the landscape
As nothing else could. Of course I love the sparrows, Those dun-colored darlings, So hungry and so many.
I am a God-fearing feeder of birds, I know he has many children, Not all of them bold in spirit. Still, for whatever reasonPerhaps because the winter is so long And the sky so black-blue, Or perhaps because the heart narrows As often as it opensI am grateful
That red bird comes all winter
Firing up the landscape
As nothing else can do.
Continental Women’s Club
LIZ PAUL
The Continental Women’s Club will welcome a guest speaker from the Fort Myers Mastersingers to the luncheon meeting on Thursday, April 2. The Mastersingers has an 80-plus vocal ensemble which presents choral music featuring celebrated masterworks, contemporary choral works, and timeless classics. The group organizes and self-produces community concerts and appears with other talented musicians and ensembles throughout Southwest Florida. The deadline to reserve for this luncheon is Tuesday, March 24.
The meetings are being held at The Hideaway Country Club, 5670 Trailwinds Drive, Fort Myers 33907. The cost to attend the luncheon is $28. Please call Liz Paul at (239) 691-7561 by March 24 for meal selection and to make a reservation.
Continental Women’s Club is a social, cultural, and philanthropic organization established in 1975, with membership open to women living in Lee County. We have many special events and interest groups within our club that you can participate in for social and educational purposes throughout the month and the year. In addition, we contribute to many local charities and award two scholarships each year to senior high school girls who plan on furthering their education.
Cross Creek Book Club
Greetings,
We had a great Book Club meeting last Friday, Jan. 9, lead by Cheryl Von Ruden leading the discussion of Run, Rose, Run by Dolly Parton and James Patterson. The February book is The Frozen River led by Joyce Palm. I hope those in Florida will be able to attend the meeting on February 13 at the Clubhouse in the Garden Room at 2 p.m.
At that meeting I am also asking you to bring a list of any books you would like us to consider for our 2026-27 season. From your suggestions, I will build a list of books which
we will vote on at the March meeting. If you can’t be at the meeting, you can also send me any books you would like us to consider. Please send them to me by Feb. 11. At the February meeting we will create the list of books we will be voting on at the March meeting.
P.S.: The numbers after the books are (Amazon rating, number of pages)
Those who will be at the February meeting can bring their list of books to consider to the meeting or send it to me prior to the meeting.
Date Novel Author Leader
Nov. 14
Dec. 12
Jan. 9
Feb. 13
Mar. 13
Apr. 10
The Stolen Queen (4.3, 349)
Fiona Davis
Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Annabelle Tometich
Florida & Felony (4.5, 306)
Run, Rose, Run: A Novel (4.4, 547)
James Patterson, Dolly Parton
The Frozen River: A GMA Book Ariel Lawhon
Club Pick (4.6, 420)
James: A Novel (4.6, 304)
Percival Everett
The Wedding People: Alison Espach
Karen Hoff
Donna Noggle
Cheryl Von Ruden
Joyce Palm
Gwen Pangbaum
Jeanne Franz A Novel (4.3, 355)
Happy Reading and hope you enjoyed the book for this Month, The Frozen River, by Ariel Lawhon. If you cannot be at this meeting but would like to share your comments about this book, I would love to hear from you.
Take Care and Happy Reading, Pam Conti
(607) 759-1966
Village News
FAIRWAY WOODS 1
Our Annual Meeting was held January 8. Our Board President shared 2025 in review and projects completed. Goals for 2026 were shared with owners.
Board members are available and are always out during season assisting with requests from owners.
Fairway 1 and 2 sponsor the Ken Hartman Memorial Golf Tournaments the last Monday of months January to March. Awards (Pulitzer �� ) are presented and a meal is shared.
Fairway Woods 1 and 2 have Happy Hour at the pool every Monday at 4:30 p.m. Wonderful appetizers are shared.
WYLDEWOOD
As Groucho Marx once said, “I’ve only come to say goodbye—I must be going.” He might as well have been talking about us. Our Welcome Back Party seemed an almost back-to-back with a Goodbye Party. While the event was delayed a week in hopes of “warmer” weather, that plan worked … until it did not. The evening started warmer until it wasn’t … the wind changed the temperature dropped and everyone scattered.
Our host did keep things lively with a game inspired by the TV show Family Feud—though it quickly became more Family Fun. Divided into teams, members had to select the top three answers in each category. The prize? Bragging rights—and a cookie for the winners.
The weather will improve in February (you will know whether that prediction was true or false by the time you read this). Our social calendar rolls on with a Super Bowl Party and a Valentine “Love to Share” event. Who knew the Super Bowl would feature the Seahawks and Patriots and draw such enthusiastic cheers? The final score was maybe around 30–27.
Looking ahead to this March edition, we are gearing up for our annual Nine-hole Golf Tournament on March 3. Once again, it may turn into a friendly competition to see who can put the most balls in the water—stiff competition is expected.
We will again participate in the Jersey Mike’s Subs “Give Back to the Community” Day, where Jersey Mike donates all sales to local causes.
At our Annual Meeting, we welcomed new board members Jeff Quinn, Joy Quinn, and Doug Faraia. We thank Faye Ysseldyke and Annette Silverman as they leave the board.
THE VERANDAS ROGER KADASH
Dateline The Verandas
March Is Here: Well, here we are in March, where did the season go so fast. Still, more time to enjoy the sun and fun of Florida.
Patio Party: The patio party is being very well attended. Great group of people sharing some great food and time.
SUNDAY, MARCH 8
Super Bowl Tailgate Party: Great turnout for the Super Bowl party on the patio. Many thanks to Janet Murphy and her committee, great job.
Dates To Remember In March: March 8, Daylight Savings Time begins – clocks ahead one hour; March 17, St. Patrick’s Day; and March 19, Spring begins.
April 5: Easter is early this year, April 5. That means the Social Committee has to start planning Easter Brunch.
March Flower: March flower is the daffodil.
March Recipes
CITRUS MINT SPRITZ
INGREDIENTS (SERVES 2)
• 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice (or orange juice)
• ½ cup Prosecco or sparkling wine
• 2 ounces vodka (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves
• Ice
• Citrus slices for garnish
Fresh, light, and perfect for warm Florida afternoons.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Fill two glasses with ice.
2. Add grapefruit juice and vodka (if using).
3. Top with Prosecco.
4. Gently stir and garnish with mint and citrus slices.
KEY LIME SHORTBREAD SQUARES
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup butter, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups flour
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup fresh key lime juice
• Zest of 2 limes
Bright, citrusy, and very Florida.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix butter, powdered sugar, and flour. Press into a lined 9×9inch pan.
3. Bake crust for 15 minutes.
4. Whisk condensed milk, lime juice, and zest.
5. Pour over crust and bake another 15 minutes.
6. Cool completely, then cut into squares.
Restaurant News
Good afternoon, Cross Creekians!
Welcome home to everyone who shoveled out of the snow and made it down safely. I’ve been receiving numerous questions regarding our kitchen staff and the preparations for the upcoming busy season, and I want to take a moment to address them.
I have never been more confident and prouder of the staff I currently have in my kitchen. Donna Corey and Robin Francois have been with me since the beginning of my Cross Creek career. I’ve watched both of them grow and take ownership of their roles with unparalleled passion. They both possess strong backgrounds in food and beverage, and I’ve been fortunate to guide them, sharing the expectations we uphold here at Cross Creek.
With the support of past chefs, they have effectively been managing our back-of-house operations. Their contributions have been instrumental in getting us to where we are today. We recognize that there are still many opportunities for improvement ahead, and we welcome those challenges with open arms.
Our supporting kitchen staff is equally dedicated, showing a strong commitment to delivering excellent products in a timely manner. With approximately 34 events scheduled between now and the end of March, I am confident the quality of each event will
be outstanding and will only enhance as we progress through the season.
I am committed to being in the trenches with my team as we navigate this busy and promising time. As always, I encourage you to approach me or John Castaldo with any questions or concerns you may have. Additionally, there is a suggestion box in our main lobby that I check daily.
Wishing you all a fantastic season, and I hope to see you soon!
Warm regards,
Dave
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
Cross Creek Women’s 18 Golf League
BRENDA SARNA, PUBLICITY
January 14, the Cross Creek’s Women’s 18 Golf League eased into the new year with a forgiving game of Odd Holes – a player’s game was only half as bad (or good) because only the odd holes were scored! It was a fun game to welcome back members and to socialize new members, and it was very successful doing both. Old friends were greeted with hugs and new friends were made just by having fun together. Cross Creek’s Women’s 18 League welcomes new members: Kathleen Chauvin, Mary Eannace, Vadonna Motley, Trish Doring, Rictoria Reiger, Carol Townsend, Julie Gronlund, and Louise Frehill. Mary Lou Horan was missed by all and a card full of love and wishes for a speedy recovery was signed by many.
At the first get-together, there was a short business meeting following the luncheon. Arlene McClintock presided and welcomed new members. Minutes from prior meeting were shared by Amy Liming, secretary, and approved. Membership is over 40 this year! Bobby Pollesch, treasurer, provided the financial report and it was good news. Lesa Foss awarded Birdie pins to all players who scored Birdies, so far this
season: Horstman (6), Millward (3), Danek (2), and Marti, Hughes, Jansma, Patzitney (1). Members are reminded to enter scores into GHIN for legitimate games played outside the league. Also, scores from league play must be entered in the clubhouse computer, not a mobile app.
New business was the upcoming MemberGuest event February 4. Hopefully, you’ve registered for the
“NEW” FRIENDS: GORMLUND, BODEM, MOTLEY
“OLD” FRIENDS: LIMING, MAAS, WACO, PAZITNEY
event by the time of this reading! Besides the fun of play with friends, there are prizes and raffles to win! Then, league championship starts February 25 and is best two of three games. Last year began with 36 players and ended with 30. It is flighted and handicapped and to play, you must play in at least three events. Hope to see you in the sunshine for all upcoming events!
VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED to keep the league running. Board positions President, Vice-President and Publicity are open. At a minimum, a President and Vice-President is required to keep the league going. Is it your turn? Contact any current board member for information.
Women’s 18 Golf League Results
BRENDA SARNA, PUBLICITY
JANUARY 7, ODD HOLES
FLIGHT A
First Score 26 Millward
Second Score 28 Green
Third Score 29 (tie) Foss, McClintock
FLIGHT B
First Score 29 Baglien
Second Score 29 (tie) Bodem, Jaeger
FLIGHT C
First Score 29 Rieger
Second Score 30 Evans
Third Score 31 Truesdell
FLIGHT D
First Score 28 Klaus
Second Score 29 (tie) Potter, Rei
JANUARY 14, DROP BACK SCRAMBLE
First Score 60 (tie) Hawks, Martin, Smith, Jansma, Pazitney, Liming, Waco, Maas
Third Score 61 (tie) McClintock, Jaeger, Evans, Matuszak, Parker, Bodem, Pollesch, Rei, Mullins, Arena, Hughes, Dwyer
JANUARY 21, PINK LADY
FLIGHT A
First Score 64 (tie) Pazitney, Hawks, Biz, Green, Bodem, Truesdell, Townsend
Third Score 65 Horstman, Baglien, Smith, Potter
JANUARY 28, POINT QUOTA GAME
It was a cold, cold morning with feels like temps in the 30s!
Six, hardy souls kept up the play.
FLIGHT A
First Score 40 Bodem
Second Score 38 Bizak
FLIGHT B
First Score 40 Liming
Second Score 35 Gronlund
FLIGHT C
First Score 32 Klaus
Second Score 31 Townsend
WOMEN’S GOLF NEWS
Ladies’ Nine Hole Golf League
In January the ladies had a fun scrambling before enjoying fellowship and lunch together in the clubhouse. The scramble scores were close with a five-team tie for third place and two teams tied for first place.
Our club is blessed to have so many wonderful ladies supporting each other on and off the course. Long after the score cards are turned in, it’s the friendships and fun that we all remember.
CONGRATULATIONS TO FRAN DANEK FOR CLOSEST TO THE PIN ON HOLE 8!
FIRST PLACE: MARY BODEM, ANNE SACHELI, JUDY JANKOWSKI, AND PATTI BARBUTO
FIRST PLACE: DIANE DUEY, FRAN DANEK, LINDA STURGILL AND JOAN THEUNE
CCW18 Member Guest Scramble & Luncheon
CROSS CREEK WOMEN’S 18 GOLF LEAGUE entertained their MemberGuest Scramble on Wednesday, February
4. Thirty-eight hardy souls went out in 43-degree weather and arrived back at the cart barn in 70-degree sunshine; it’s winter in Florida.
In addition to playing a fun scramble, everyone stayed for the simple and tasty fare served up by Cross Creek restaurant staff. Prizes were given out:
LONGEST Drive Lori Frederic CLOSEST to Pin Renee Green
FLIGHT A
First Score 57 Green, Matthews
Second Score 58 Longpre, Davis
Third Score 61 Mullins, Fredric
FLIGHT B
First Score 65 Lenz, Draves
Second Score 66 Liming, Armsey
Third Score 70 Evans, Petrie
FLIGHT C
First Score 73 Klaus, Synder
Second Score 76 Truesdell, Wilson
Third Score 82 Dwyer, Johnson
It was wonderful to see old friends playing with old friends and then laughing over the game’s ups and downs. It’s golf.
Hope to see y’all back next year!
Brenda Sarna, Publicity
SECOND FLIGHT, FIRST PLACE
FIRST FLIGHT: FIRST PLACE
THIRD FLIGHT, FIRST PLACE
MEN’S GOLF NEWS
Men’s Match Play Win
Larry Conroy, in a tightly contested match against Dan Duey, won the two-tee matchplay competition. Lance Clayton, sinking a much-needed putt on the 17th hole, secured his win over Rich Dunkailo. Both matches concluded four weeks of match play that featured a mix of pleasant days and cooler weather—so cool on the final match day that warm-weather clothing was once again required. (See picture.)
Golf match play is a head-to-head scoring format in which players compete to win individual holes, with the match decided by the player who wins the most holes. Handicaps are used to even the competition when players’ skill levels differ.
Men’s Championship to Start
Players are encouraged to sign up for the Men’s 18 Championship. Play begins March 6, followed by rounds on March 13 and 14. Depending on the number of participants, flights will be determined based on player handicaps. Flights will be offered from both two and three tees, with both net and gross scoring in each division. The Men’s 18-hole Champion will be determined from the first flight playing the two tees. The awards luncheon will be held on April 3. Last year’s winner, Dan Duey, will be seeking his fifth championship victory in recent years.
PICTURED FROM LEFT TO RIGHT, DAN DUEY, LARRY CONROY, LANCE CLAYTON, RICH DUNKAILO
LARRY CONROY
LANCE CLAYTON
Golf Course Green Conditions
We are aware that our greens are in poor condition and we are working diligently to rectify the situation.
THE PROBLEM
Fertilization, foliar sprays to push growth, fungicides and soil amendments were applied in the late summer and we saw good improvement into the fall.
As we were seeing improvements, a change in county/state regulations required the water treatment facility to reroute the reclaimed water from our lakes directly into our wet well system. We believe this change resulted in sub-par irrigation water that contains high concentrations of chlorine in the water we use on the golf course and greens.
We have submitted soil and water samples for testing and anticipate receiving the results within the next week. At that time, we will be able to determine the best method of correcting any imbalance.
In the meantime, we continue to apply soil amendments, flushing salts and impurities out of the soil, in hopes that this will give a jumpstart to our mitigation plans. Additional reseeding will occur after the weather warms up again within the next 10 days.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Matt Mihelich, Golf Course Superintendent
Debbie Kelly, Board of Directors Liaison
March in Florida
March is one of Florida’s most enjoyable months, offering warm days, cooler evenings, and plenty of sunshine without the intensity of summer heat. Snowbirds and locals alike take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor dining, beach walks, golf, and spring festivals happening across the state.
St. Patrick’s Day adds a touch of green to the calendar, with parades, casual celebrations, and themed events popping up in towns and coastal communities. Restaurants and pubs often join in with festive menus and live music, making it a fun and lighthearted time to gather with friends.
With blooming landscapes, longer days, and a relaxed pace, March in Florida feels like a gentle invitation to enjoy life outdoors before the warmer months arrive.
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
MARCH ON THE WATER
With record cold weather over the past couple months behind us we can look forward to warmer days. With luck, March will kick the pattern as we exit winter and move into spring. Spring fishing is looked upon as some of the best of the year with a wide variety of species willing to bend a rod. As days get longer and warmer, the water temperature rises. Schooling baitfish returns after seeking warmer weather over the winter. This is a combination that rings the dinner bell for fish along our coastal waters.
The winter sheepsheads’ run will come to a close over the month. As they complete their spawning duties, they disperse to who knows where. There’s still a good chance to hook big ones around inshore structure and nearshore reefs, especially early in the month. Inshore, catching pompano is a possibility when fishing with shrimp or small pompano jigs.
Spanish mackerel are a fun target as they are ferocious feeders, fast, and great fighters. Prepared fresh, they offer excellent table fare that’s often overlooked. For me, they are the perfect fish when looking for fun and action. When mackerels are present, odds are good that sharks are nearby; sharks love snacking on mackerels.
This month kicks off snook fishing along our coastal waters. Water temperature is critical for snook, too cold and they are often dormant. As the water rises to 70 degrees or above and holds, we can look for snook to become active, on the move, and hungry. Like many of our game fish, as the water warms their primary diet becomes oily baitfish.
With the arrival of baitfish and warming water, big trout become common catches. Many of our largest sea trout of the year are caught this month. Trout are in their first and largest spawn cycle of the year, look for the bigger fish to get aggressive and hungry.
Following months of daytime low tides and often not much water to navigate, our first spring high tides begin. Higher tides allow for good opportunities to target redfish along mangrove shorelines and over oyster bars. Early morning low tides also allow anglers a great opportunity at tailing redfish over the shallow flats.
Offshore, on days the weather allows there are good opportunities for a variety of fish including reef dwellers like snapper, grouper, grunts, porgies, sheepsheads, and others. Schools of
fast-moving Spanish and king mackerel, plus false albacore, or bonito and even some blackfin tuna are making their way up the coast and busting up any schooling baitfish they encounter. Keep an eye out for tripletail around buoys or floating debris and don’t be surprised if a big cobia makes his presence around your boat while bottom fishing. Fishing around one of the many public artificial reefs is always a good choice for a variety of fish.
Early season tarpon begin to show off the beaches, to the southern part of our region slowly making their way up the coast. Tarpon hook-ups are possible inshore as the waters warm over the month.
March is a month where anything is possible, and you should always expect the unexpected. We generally have some cool and windy days, but they will be offset with great weather as we break into the spring season.
Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting www.myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app to your phone. It has current regulations and seasons with pictures to help identify fish.
For charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service and “Catch the Action” with Capt. Bill Russell, call or text (239) 410-8576, website: www.fishpineisland.com , email: gcl2fish@live.com .
Capt. Bill Russell is a native and lifelong resident of Pine Island who has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Pine Island and Southwest Florida.
For the past 30 years, Bill has been a professional fishing guide who takes pride in customizing each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. Come join us and “Catch the Action.”
TAX REFUND SCAMS
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno...
As some of us prepare to gather our tax documents and file our returns, it is important to be aware of the start of “tax refund scam season.”
Much like the arrival of spring, this time of year generates annual fraudulent behavior.
Should you be anticipating a tax refund, know that there are unscrupulous individuals hoping to steal that refund.
Texts and emails appearing to originate from the IRS or other governmental offices will indicate that your refund has been “processed” or “approved” or “pending additional information.”
You are prompted to click on a link that will request a social security number…bank account information … date of birth.
Never respond … never.
Be aware that the IRS and/or state tax offices will not reach out to you via text, through email or on social media.
Report fraudulent activity to the Federal Trade Commission by visiting https://reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Montage Women’s Club
The Montage Women’s Club is a social and philanthropic club open to all women residing in Lee County. We normally meet on the fourth Thursday of each month. Our March meeting will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn (Captiva Ballroom), 12600 University Drive, Fort Myers 33908, corner of College Parkway at the Summerlin Road overpass. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m., with a short social period followed by lunch at noon followed by an informative speaker program and a short business meeting. Within the organization are various interest groups for members’ participation. Membership is open to both year-round and seasonal residents. We welcome you to visit Montage for a luncheon.
Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, March 26. Our featured speaker will be Greg Longenhagen, a member of the original founding company of the Florida Repertory Theatre.
Greg is honored to be entering his third decade with the Repertory and is delighted to serve as its producing artistic director. He will share with us the history of the theatre along with some behind-the-scenes information on how a show comes together, and details of upcoming events.
Luncheon fee is $30 per person. The March regular entree will be Trio Salad (chicken, egg, and tuna) with assorted veggies on a bed of lettuce and Chef’s choice for dessert. The vegan/plant-based entree will be Spinach Salad with mushrooms, lentils, onion, cucumbers, red peppers and pecans with a balsamic vinaigrette and fresh fruit for dessert.
If you would like to attend a Montage meeting, need further information, or would like to make a reservation, please call Rita Artwohl at (239) 703-7787. Reservations cutoff to attend this meeting is noon, Thursday, March 19.
Consumer Alerts
BCP STAFF
THAT
CALL OR EMAIL SAYING YOU MISSED JURY DUTY AND NEED TO PAY? IT’S A SCAM
If you’ve been summoned for jury duty, you know there are serious consequences for missing it—like fines, court appointments, or even jail time. Scammers know this too, and they’re calling and emailing to scare you into thinking you’ve missed jury duty and need to pay. It’s a scam. Learn how the scam works so you can avoid it.
You get an “urgent” call or email out of the blue from someone claiming to be a U.S. Marshal or a police officer. They say you missed jury duty and you’ll be arrested unless you pay them now. Only you never got a summons, and you know this isn’t how the courts work. This is a scammer trying to steal your money, and if you give them information like your Social Security number or date of birth, they could try to steal your identity.
Here’s how you know it’s a scam.
• Courts never ask you to pay over the phone. In fact, no government agency will do that.
• Only scammers insist that you can only pay with gift cards, a payment app, cryptocurrency, or a wire transfer service like Western Union or MoneyGram.
• Courts never ask potential jurors for sensitive information over the phone, like your Social Security number or birthdate. Only scammers do.
If you get a call or email like this, don’t respond. Don’t pay or give them any personal information. If you think a call or email could be real, check the court’s website for jury duty information or call the court directly at a number you know is correct.
Already paid or gave your information to a scammer? Read What To Do if You Were Scammed to find out what to do next. And tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
RESOURCE HUB
MINDY TAMACCIO, EDITOR COURIER
(610) 812-0987 | mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com
DO YOU HAVE THE ‘WRITE’ STUFF?
I’m in search of a few residents who would like to contribute to our newsletter. Yes, that means you ! This is our newsletter; let’s make it our own! Now is your chance to share your interests with the community. You can contribute each month, just once, or once in a while. You can even give yourself a fancy title like columnist, correspondent, or wordsmith-extraordinaire!
• Are you involved in any particular activities in Cross Creek or around town?
• Can you share your knowledge about a specific topic or hobby?
• Do you have (or did you retire from) an interesting career?
• Are you the person who always knows what to do/where to go in our area?
• Do you like to take pictures or draw cartoons?
• Can you pass along a favorite recipe?
• Would you like to write but need inspiration? (I can help!)
If you answered yes to any of the above or have an idea of your own, contact me at mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
I look forward to hearing from you! And as always, I’d like to extend a huge “thank you” to all of our current contributors for their continued efforts. Without you, this paper would not be possible!
TO ALL REPORTERS SUBMITTING COPY
1. Village news: 300 words or less.
2. Deadline: Fourth of the month by 5 p.m.
3. Articles – Please do not capitalize all words.
4. Please give your articles a headline & Byline
5. All articles need to be sent to Mindy Tamaccio at mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
RECIPES
Desserts are made of sugar and spice and everything nice, Appetizers can be anything like the roll of the dice, Entrees can be meaty, veggie and even rice, But please, let’s not have lice or mice.
So take the dare, submit a recipe you would like to share, Some will make it with care, And even serve it for their fare.
Submit all recipes to mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Harvey LaPointe, President 13239 Oak Hill Loop 435-659-9805
John Castaldo, Vice President (802) 272-9493
Frank Maranto, Treasurer 13110 Cross Creek Blvd., #309 785-4750
Debbie Kelly, Secretary 13131 Cross Creek Blvd., #107 703-963-1104
Chance Chancellor, Director 12745 Inverary Cir. 247-3627
Alan Jones, Director (860) 670-4862
Mary Peabody, Director (802) 598-4878
CLUBHOUSE VILLAGE
John Shulak, President MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Precedent Hospitality 6216 Whiskey Creek Drive Suite A Fort Myers, Florida 33919 239-344-8733
COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE 1
Gary Presley, President garypresley@yahoo.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
RESOURCE HUB
DIRECTORY
COUNTRY CLUB VILLAGE II
Mike Stagg, President
13080 Cross Creek Court #301 920-229-4400
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3
Fort Myers, Florida 33966
239-364-4325
FAIRWAY WOODS CONDO I
Jeff Cason, President 12500 Cold Stream Drive, #301 256-503-9669
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Hawk-Eye Management
3436 Marinatown Lane, Suites 9 & 10
North Fort Myers, FL 33903 239-217-6599
FAIRWAY WOODS CONDO II
Bruce Hamel, President 12561 Cold Stream Drive, #604 586-604-0880
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Hawk-Eye Management 3436 Marinatown Lane, Suites 9 & 10 North Fort Myers, FL 33903 239-217-6599
SINGLE FAMILY I
Carol LaPointe, President 13230 Oak Hill Loop 435-901-9305
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
SINGLE FAMILY II
Mark Woodman, President 12744 Inverary Circle 603-231-9392
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
TALL GRASS COURT VILLAS
Sandra Jocelyn, President 13428 Tall Grass Court 239-561-7389
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
TERRACE CONDO I
Tom Sloan, President 13288 White Marsh Lane, #8 816-716-4542
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
First Service Residential Cross Creek Property Manager, Chris Conti
Office hours: Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | 866-378-1099
TERRACE CONDO II
Sheila DeMichele, President sheilademichele@gmail.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
TERRACE CONDO III
Joe Pantano, President Jpan15@outlook.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Associa Gulf Coast 13461 Parker Commons Blvd. Suite 101 & 102
Fort Myers, Florida 33912 277-0718 | Fax: 936-8310
TERRACE CONDO IV
William Flury, President 13021 Cross Creek Blvd., #1236 248-343-0921
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Associa Gulf Coast 13461 Parker Commons Blvd. Suite 101 & 102
Fort Myers, Florida 33912 277-0718 | Fax: 936-8310
TIMBERLINE VILLAGE I
Dennis Reiter, President 13070 White Marsh Lane #207 270-366-2176
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Gulf Coast Realty and Property Management
26711 Dublin Woods Cir. Suite 202 Bonita Springs, Florida 34125 239-325-4300
TIMBERLINE VILLAGE II
Jim Heberle, President Heberle13170@gmail.com
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
THE VERANDAS
c/o Frank Maranto, President 13110 Cross Creek Blvd., #309 785-4750
Fort Myers, Florida 33912
VILLAS OF CROSS CREEK I
Ted Knudsen, President 13452 Onion Creek Court 616-901-0222
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., #3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 364-4325
VILLAS OF CROSS CREEK II
Alan Jones, President 12781 Cold Stream Drive 860-670-4862
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Coastal Association Services 1314 Cape Coral Parkway E., Suite 205 Cape Coral, Florida 33904 239-689-3080
WYLDEWOOD VILLAGE
Peter Brochhausen, President 13219 White Marsh Lane #107 253-433-0530
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966
In order to better serve your concerns and questions regarding our community, please contact the following board members directly with your specific issues or questions.
Cross Creek Master Board Harvey LaPointe, President Common Grounds (435) 659-9805
John Castaldo, Vice President (802) 272-9493
Frank Maranto, Treasurer (239) 785-4750
Debbie Kelly, Secretary Pro Shop and Golf (703) 963-1104
Chance Chancellor, Buildings (239) 247-3627
Alan Jones, Lakes Projects (860) 670-4862
Mary Peabody, Communications (802) 598-4878
E-MAIL ADDRESSES
Members can now e-mail their request to the following departments: office@crosscreekfl.com restaurant@crosscreekfl.com proshop@crosscreekfl.com clubhouse@crosscreekfl.com
RESOURCE HUB
CROSS CREEK COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT
Our Vision – To be a respected and affordable golf and clubhouse facility.
Mission – We operate a semiprivate golf and clubhouse facility that provides an enjoyable environment where members and guests receive superior customer service. Our goal is to exceed customer expectations everyday. We operate with innovative and creative management where honesty, integrity and good business practices are the foundation of our leadership. We foster an atmosphere of teamwork among members, staff and community.
WHO TO CALL FOR WHAT
Have a problem and/or need help?
Here’s who to call:
Medical or Fire Emergency: Call 911 Water Leak in Irrigation System: Call your own local Association officer or Management Company
Street Light Out on Cross Creek Boulevard or White Marsh Lane: Call Cross Creek Administration at 768-1166
Crime Problem: Call Lee County Sheriff at 477-1200
Need Cross Creek Information: Call Association office at 768-1166
BLUE STREAM INFORMATION FOR ALL SELLERS AND BUYERS IN CROSS CREEK
The following steps should be taken when a Cross Creek property is sold and/or purchased.
1. The original owner must call Blue Stream at (239) 963-1350 and cancel service. An agent will walk you through the process.
2.The new owner must call Blue Stream at (239) 963-1350 to order new services and installation. Any new account after the original owner will be charged a fee of approximately $75 for this service.
Thank you.
Debbie Kelly, Master Board of Directors and Fiber Optics Committee Chair
Tune in to the Cross Creek TV channel at 901.
The Blue Stream Help Line is (239) 963-1350.
Check Out Cross Creek’s Web Site:
WWW.CROSSCREEKFL.COM
BEWARE OF ALLIGATORS AND SNAKES when retrieving your ball on the banks of the lakes.
NOTICE
Please return ALL RAKES to the bunkers when finished. Thank You
DO NOT WALK, JOG OR RIDE BIKES ON THE CART PATHS.
WHEN PUTTING ON GREENS KEEP CARTS ON CART PATH.
ATTENTION DOG OWNERS
It is your responsibility to pick up after your dog. It’s the law. Some of you have been negligent in doing so. Please keep our Cross Creek beautiful!
NOTICE!
Please pick up all cigar and cigarette butts! Thank you
POOL SERVICE
Did you know you may order food and drinks to be served by the pool? All you have to do is call the restaurant, give them your order and be sure to tell them you are by the pool. 768-1474.
CROSS CREEK
RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE (239) 768-1474
RESTAURANT NEWS
Nightly Specials Are Served Wednesday And Friday Only.
PLEASE DON’T FEED ALLIGATORS, BIRDS, PIGS OR ANY WILDLIFE
Report all aggressive alligator sightings to the Master Association office at 768-1166.
