Stephen
Poet’s Corner
NOVEMBER GRATITUDE
In the hush before winter’s call, Golden leaves begin to fall.
Softly, the world turns calm and clear, A time to thank all we hold dear.
For laughter shared and lessons learned, For warmth in hearts where fires have burned, For hands that help, for love that stays, For light that guides our darkest days.
Gratitude whispers through the air, A gentle reminder to stop and care— To count our blessings, one by one, Before the year’s last days are done.
Ale Tales And Lager Lore
DIANE BOTHFELD, CERTIFIED CICERONE®
Did you know that November 1 is Learn to Home Brew Day? If you have noticed the prices of beer in the grocery store, you might be considering this new hobby. I did brew my own beer in the past and it was an enjoyable hobby, but then craft brewing
took off and there were many excellent beers to choose!
If you would like to try home brewing your own beer, there are many kits available from simple to spaceship level brewing. When
I home brewed, I had a 5-gallon stockpot, a 5-gallon glass carboy, a sieve, some used glass bottles, and some vinyl tubing. Pretty simple equipment. Now you can purchase all stainless-steel vats with computer technology that does it all, heats, cools, and controls fermentation – almost everything but the drinking of the beer. Since it is November, might be good to hint around that home brewing equipment would be a great holiday gift. Once you have the equipment, there is a great shop in Fort Myers to find all your ingredients!
Happy Thanksgiving! Many of you will be hosting or traveling to be with friends and family for the Thanksgiving holiday. This holiday is all about giving thanks and sharing great food and drink with those that you care about. And guess what – beer goes really well with Thanksgiving dinner!
If you are hosting, be prepared for beer lovers at your table that might prefer beer over wine with dinner. What to serve with dinner?
You could consider beers specific to the holiday, a cranberry-themed beer or a pumpkin-themed beer. Some cranberry-themed beers include styles that are light and effervescent and would pick up on the cranberry sauce
and would act as a palate cleanser between bites. Bubbles in beer help to cleanse the palate! Here are some examples of cranberry-themed beers: Creature Comforts Brewing Company Athena Paradiso Berliner Weisse from Athens, Ga., and Jack’s Abbey Cranberry Berliner from Framingham, Mass.
For pumpkin-themed beers, try Samuel Adams Jack-O Pumpkin Ale from Boston, Mass., and Elysian Brewing Night Owl Pumpkin Ale from Seattle, Wash.
Thanksgiving dinner has many delicious flavors –roasted turkey, stuffing, gravy, squash, cranberry sauce, and casseroles – all of these flavors allow for many beers to complement dinner. I would suggest something lower in alcohol but with still enough flavor to match up with dinner. Session IPAs have enough malty flavors to match up to the roasted turkey, stuffing and gravy and a snap of bitterness from the hops to cleanse that palate between bites. Founders All Day IPA and Cigar City Jai Low are two well-known examples. Another possible pairing is German Dunkel – this is a low in alcohol beer that has a light toasted and roasted flavor that would pair well with stuffing and turkey. Spaten Dunkel and Ayringer Dunkel are two great examples.
Have fun preparing for Thanksgiving and if you are unsure what your beer drinking guests would like, just ask! Beer drinkers are always willing to share what their favorite beer is! As always, drink responsibly and enjoy the holidays in November!
Cross Creek Travelers
SMOKY MOUNTAINS SHOW TRIP, NOV. 1 TO 7, $1,045 – DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
• Transportation in top quality motorcoach with at least 54 seats
• Six nights lodging including consecutive nights in the Smokies
• 10 meals including six breakfasts and four dinners
• Two morning shows: Smith Morning Variety Show and Patty Waszak Show
• One afternoon show: “Ole’!” Argentinian dance sensation
• Three evening shows: Country Tonight, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show
• Guided tour of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Free time in historic downtown Gatlinburg
MYRTLE BEACH HOLIDAY SHOW TRIP, DEC. 1 TO 6, $825 – DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
• Motorcoach transportation, Wi-Fi and restroom equipped
• Six nights lodging including three consecutive nights in Myrtle Beach area
• Eight meals: five breakfasts and three dinners
• Three evening Christmas shows – Legends in Concert, the South’s Grandest Christmas Show at the Alabama Theatre and Christmas on Main at the Greg Rowles Legacy Theatre
• Le Grand Cirque’s Winter in the Air at Broadway Theatre
• The Man of a Thousand Voices at the Asher Theatre
• Popular shopping and dining at both Barefoot Landing and Broadway at the Beach
• Visit to Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade
• Amazing L.W. Paul Living History Farm
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.
Continental Women’s Club
LIZ PAUL
The Continental Women’s Club will hold its monthly luncheon meeting on Thursday, December 11 at 11:30 a.m. Our program will feature a presentation about the Gulf Coast Humane Society’s Silver Paws VIP Program. This program is all about giving senior pets, that are adopted from the shelter, the second chance they deserve, and is open to seniors 65 years of age and older, including those living in assisted living facilities. The goal is to help senior pets
(ages 7 and up) find their way into warm, loving environments—whether through permanent adoption or temporary fostering.
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 the deadline of Tuesday, December 2, 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.
Calling All Cross Creek Veterans
The Cross Creek Master Board would like to honor all Cross Creek Veterans and say THANK YOU for your service.
Come join your fellow Cross Creek Veterans for our annual luncheon.
Tuesday, November 11th. at 12:00 in the Clubhouse Lunch will be provided. ReservaDons required (239) 768-1474
Notes From The Master Board
As I write this in early October we have, so far, been spared from any severe weather. Everything looks green and lush and the first snowbirds have begun to arrive!
HIGHLIGHTS
• Treasurer Frank Maranto reports the Cross Creek budget continues to do well with YTD numbers finding us favorable by $175,435 at the end of August. The reserve study is complete. Details were shared at the Town Hall meeting on October 8. The recording is available if you missed the presentation. Email masterboard@crosscreekfl.com if you’d like the link.
• The Member Survey was completed in September, and a report of the results was shared in October. The next steps include research into county regulations and permit requirements to see what is possible. Look for information on a community-wide town hall. This will most likely be scheduled early in 2026 to accommodate our seasonal members.
• The Second Phase of the Lakes Project is moving forward. By now you have received notice of the second installment of the Special Assessment. We are hoping the contractor will be able to make significant progress before the 2026 rainy season begins.
• Matt and the entire Ground Crew have been busy getting the golf course ready for the season! The entire bridge between holes 2 and 3 has been updated with new wood— it looks great and is noticeably quieter.
The greens have been a challenge but are coming back to life. When the sanding of the greens occurred this summer, unbeknownst to Matt, the sand purchased had a high salinity rate that gradually killed several areas on the greens. With reseeding and soil amendments to the impacted areas, the greens will continue to recover.
Stop by the Pro Shop and check out the great new clothing and accessories. Remember, gift certificates can be purchased for that hard-to-buy-for friend or family member.
• If you capture a particularly lovely/ unusual/funny picture of our Cross Creek property please send it along – we have a newspaper, a website and a social media presence that are all hungry for new photos. Send photos along to masterboard@ crosscreekfl.com along with your name (so we can credit you).
Mary Peabody, Director
On behalf of the Master Board
Courier Clicks!
We love seeing Cross Creek through your eyes! Do you have any pictures you would like to share? Send in your favorite moments – from community events to everyday snapshots – and you might see them featured in an upcoming issue.
Please send your photos with a brief caption and your name to mindy.tamaccio@gmail.com.
Bocce Updates
Since our last update we have made some progress in planning for the future of our Bocce League. In order to keep the league running smoothly, we are still seeking a coordinator (or two co-coordinators) to step up and provide overall leadership to the league. Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Please email masterboard@crosscreekfl.org – we’ll be in touch.
As of now, we do have several critical pieces in place. Thanks to the returning team captains and the daily coordinators! Bocce team captains are being contacted to indicate whether they will be playing next season and whether they are in need of any additional players to fill vacancies.
Mark your calendars!
League play will begin on Monday, January 5, 2026. The season runs through Thursday, March 12.
Playoffs and the annual Bocce Banquet is scheduled for Saturday, March 21.
Help Cross Creek Bocce Thrive Into The Future
After many years of dedicated service Clay Lance has decided to step down as Bocce Coordinator for a well-deserved break. In order to keep the league running smoothly, we are seeking a coordinator (or two co-coordinators) to step up and provide leadership to the league.
This volunteer position is needed midNovember to mid-March. Much of the early season work can be done remotely. The time frame in general requires two to five hours/week mid-November to mid-January, four to six hours/week mid-January to mid-March. Strong communication skills are critical for this position, along with familiarity with email and spreadsheets. There is help/training/ support available to get you off to a successful start.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS INCLUDE
• Review the rules and regulations of Bocce.
• Communicate with Day Captains (each day has an individual assigned to take charge of that day’s play).
• Communicate with the Team Captains –Overview of their responsibilities. Are they planning to play this year? Do they have any open spaces on their team that need filling?
• Maintain the list of Bocce participants.
• Construct the seasonal game schedule.
• Collect the results from each day of play –tracking the winners.
• Collect the payments from teams, keep the records, and ensure that all money gets deposited.
• Plan the banquet (with assistance from others) – set the date and work with the restaurant manager to set the menu.
• Ensure all payments are made for necessary expenditures.
• Communicate the weekly team results for posting on the website.
Interested? We’d love to hear from you. Please email masterboard@crosscreekfl.org – we’ll be in touch.
Card News
BRIDGE WINNERS
FRANK MARANTO
Sept. 1
No Cards
Sept. 8
Nancy Kuehl and Pat Horschak 4640
Steve Little and Jim Zernzach 3100
Sept. 15
Steve Little and Jim Zernzach 5350
Janet Lenz and Pat Horschak 5170
Sept. 22
Frank and Paula Maranto 4170
Steve Little and Jim Zernzach 2180
Sept. 29
Carol Richardson and Mary Fennwick 2620
Steve Little and Jim Zernzach 1740
PINOCHLE WINNERS
BEV APPLEGATE
Sept.1
Ken Schultz 667
Joe Spinelli 605
Lori Bohan 579
Sept. 8
Bev Applegate 632
Lori Bohan 610
Joe Spinelli 584
Sept. 15
Bev Applegate 701
Ken Schultz 616
Joe Spinelli 588
Sept. 22
Ken Schultz 755
Bev Applegate 717
Joe Spinelli 703
Sept. 29
Don Applegate 710
Joe Spinelli 687
Bev Applegate 651
Cross Creek Mah-Jongg
Come join the Mah-jongg group on Mondays at 1 p.m. in the Cross Creek Clubhouse.
We welcome beginners and will help you learn the game. At this time we’ve been having two tables, there is always room for more. If you have your 2024 card, please bring it with you. Call Jan Truesdell for information at (513) 254-0750.
Village News
ROGER KADASH
VERANDAS
DATELINE THE VERANDAS
Rainy Season: Well, the rainy season is over thank God and so is the hurricane season, fingers crossed.
Snowbirds Return: Yes, the snowbirds are starting to arrive. Nice to welcome them back.
Patio Party: The patio parties are starting back every Tuesday starting at 4:30 p.m. (weather permitting)
Dates To Remember In November: November 2, Daylight Saving Time ends (set clocks back one hour); November 11, Veterans Day; and November 27, Thanksgiving Day.
The birthstone for November is topaz and the flower is chrysanthemum.
Thanksgiving Greetings: Wishing everyone a happy, merry and safe Thanksgiving, from Josie and Roger.
WYLDEWOOD NEWS
WELCOME BACK TO WYLDEWOOD
The flowers that bloomed in the spring – tra la, tra la – have faded away, replaced by autumn’s falling leaves. With their abundance of color comes the familiar ritual of leaf gathering, and, where approved, the fragrant (and sometimes irritating) scent of burning leaves filling the air.
With the change of season, it’s time once again to pack up and return to your condo—or plan your arrival after the New Year. Unless Southwest Florida has faced a late-season hurricane, you’ll be greeted by secure roofs, sturdy carports, and mostly untouched landscaping as you return to paradise.
Now that you’re here, it’s time to reconnect with old friends, meet new neighbors, and get ready for a season full of activities. From “Welcome Back” and “Time to Leave” parties, to Monday night gatherings, bingo, golf challenges, and much more—the Social Committee will plan for added events. Get ready, get set, go.
Recipe Corner
BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
INGREDIENTS
1 large butternut squash (peeled, seeded, and cubed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground/ nutmeg (optional)
½ cup evaporated milk or cream (optional, for creaminess)
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss squash with olive oil, spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until tender.
• Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Purée the soup with an immersion blender (or in batches in a regular blender) until smooth.
• Stir in evaporated milk or cream if desired.
• Serve warm – garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of olive oil.
SPICED CRANBERRY MULE
INGREDIENTS
• ¼ cup cranberry juice
• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ cup ginger beer
• Ice
• Fresh cranberries
• Cinnamon stick
• Lime wedge, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine cranberry juice, vodka, and lime juice in a copper mug.
2. Fill the mug with ice and top with ginger beer.
3. Garnish with fresh cranberries, a cinnamon stick, and a lime wedge.
Crossword Puzzle
Rip up
Ballroom dance
Honors
Got together
Cookout
American Medical Association
Argues
An uncle 21. Approaching
Any thing 24. A claim of rights
25. Leg joint 26. Play parts
Split 28. Indian dress 29. Gooey stuff 30. Monarch 31. Rumor mill
Detest
Provided with food
Letters and postcards
Celebration
Broadcasts
Short skirt
“Oh dear!”
Frosts, as a cake
Rear end
Pale
Plaudits
Large
Personified
Illusion
Algae 57. Luxurious
Category
2. Director 3. Finish 4. Ancient
5. Was a passenger
6. Thin layers of rock
7. A group of concubines
8. Smears
9. Before, in poetry
10. Mislead
13. Timber 14. Notices
15. Financial institutions
16. Conflict site
19. Arm muscle
22. Summit
24. Problem
26. Food thickener
27. Hurry on foot
30. Disposes
Shooting sport DOWN 1. Endurance
32. Fish eggs
33. Contrariwise
34. Ablaze
35. Squishy seat
38. Aviation station
39. Perception
40. Feudal lord
42. Give in 44. Dazzles
45. More aloof
48. Gulf port
49. Little devils
50. Comes from cows
53. Anagram of “woe”
55. Regret
MEN’S GOLF NEWS
Cross Creek’s Men’s 18-Hole League’s New
DAN DUEY/PETER BROCHHAUSEN
Looking to meet new friends and enjoy great golf. The men’s18-hole league invites new and returning members to join us for another fun and competitive season.
Membership Details
Annual membership fee is $65. Payable to CCM18 by check in the Pro Shop. Membership includes the GHIN handicap system which tracks and posts your golf scores. Green fees paid on event days.
League Play
Our first league day is Friday, November 7 with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. League play runs through April 2026.
Most events are handicapped based on ensuring fairness. Play is in individual or team formats. Members need to sign up each week by noon Wednesday in the Pro Shop. Event information is found in the Pro Shop or on the Cross Creek website.
In general, players 74 and under play the No. 2 tees and players 75 and older play the No. 3 tees. Handicaps adjusted for tee selection.
There are league administration fees for prizes and an optional fee when participating in closest to the hole competition and birdies.
League Luncheons
On the first Friday of each month following golf, each league member is encouraged to attend the league luncheon. A time to share the results of the day, both good and bad, while interacting with each other. New member introductions made, golf rules discussed, and upcoming golf events announced.
Luncheon costs collected one week prior and meal selections made.
Highlighted Events
• Match play for No. 2 and No. 3 tees.
• Member-Member
• Ryder Cup against Del Tura Country Club
• Club Championship
New Season Starts
November Events
November 7 – Two best ball of four
November 14 – Four-man team-low net
November 22 – Individual Point quota (flighted)
November 28 – Best ball of four
Additional information will be found on the Cross Creek website. Navigate to the Men’s 18-hole league at http://crosscreekfl.com .
ELECTION OF LEAGUE OFFICERS, DECEMBER 5
Any member in good standing wishing to run for a position on the board should submit their name, address, and contact information to any of the current officers prior to November 28, 2025.
Officer information may be found on the league website.
Cross Creek Women’s 18 Golf League
CC Women’s 18 Golf League Wednesday, November 5 8 a.m. Shotgun
Cross Creek BIG 10 Challenge Golf
Time to mark your calendars for next year’s BIG 10 Golf Scramble on Saturday, March 7, 2026. 10 a.m. shotgun start. It promises to be another fun day for each four-person golf team followed by lunch and prizes. Plan to bring your best game and school spirit!
More details to follow!
Questions: Patti and Tom Barbuto, (248) 425-1267
Ladies’ 9-Hole Golf League
It’s time for the 2025/26 season of ladies’ 9-hole golf to begin!
Our league will start play on Tuesday, November 4. Fee this year is $55 which includes the $30 handicap fee. You must register at the Cross Creek pro shop with checks made payable to CCW9HL.
Outing!
Looking forward to seeing familiar faces again as we welcome any new ladies that would like to join in our Tuesday morning golf fun!
Questions: Jan Klaus, (413) 244-9657
Cross Creek Book Club
Greetings,
I look forward to beginning our discussions in November. Thanks to all who have agreed to lead a discussion and all who join our discussions each month. The meetings are in the clubhouse, in the Garden Room the second Friday of the month at 2 p.m. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Date Novel Author Leader
Nov. 14 The Stolen Queen (4.3, 349) Fiona Davis Karen Hoff
Dec. 12
Mango Tree: A Memoir of Fruit, Annabelle Tometich Donna Noggle Florida & Felony (4.5, 306)
Jan. 9, 2026 Run, Rose, Run: A Novel (4.4, 547)
Feb. 13
James: A Novel (4.6, 304)
James Patterson, Cheryl Von Ruden Dolly Parton
Percival Everett Gwen Pangbaum
March 13 The Frozen River: Ariel Lawhon Joyce Palm A GMA Book Club Pick (4.6, 420)
April 10
The Wedding People: Alison Espach Jeanne Franz A Novel (4.3, 355)
Happy reading, Pam Conti (607) 759-1966
DAVE CLARK, CC RESTAURANT MANAGER
Greetings, fellow Cross Creekians,
Cross Creek Restaurant News
Welcome home to those of you who have already returned. We hope you had a great summer. We had a great summer here at the club and look to keep the momentum going into the season.
We hosted four weddings over the summer that went over very well and contributed revenue at a time of the year when Country Clubs are very quiet. You’ll notice new flooring throughout the club, and we did a thorough cleaning and reupholstering of our chairs as well. Plans are in the works for future renovations as well, so stay tuned as we look forward to a bright future.
New menus and hours of operation will be coming out in November, and we plan to welcome in some new entertainment as well as specialty nights this season. You’ll see familiar faces still with us on staff, and also some new promising faces, as some of our family members have gone away to school or pursued their future careers.
We thank you for your continued support and hope to see you soon at the Clubhouse.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION
COMING SOON!
“DEAR ABIGAIL” – HEARTFELT ADVICE FOR EVERYDAY LIFE
Get ready for a new kind of advice column that celebrates kindness, gratitude, and the simple joys of life.
In Dear Abigail, readers will find gentle guidance, everyday inspiration, and thoughtful solutions to life’s real-world challenges—without controversy or politics.
From relationships and self-confidence to aging gracefully, family moments, and finding joy in small things, Abigail brings her signature warmth and wisdom to every letter.
Positive. Practical. Personal.
Send in your questions to DearAbigail25@gmail.com – or just visit crosscreek.seabreezecommunications.com for a little boost of encouragement and good sense each week!
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
NOVEMBER ON THE WATER
This month we have days with pleasant weather and often combine summer and winter fishing conditions from week to week. As cool fronts drop down the state our coastal waters are cooling down. With the change, fish are transitioning from summer to winter patterns. November brings a mix of warm and cool weather.
Fishing for sea trout is a great option as the weather cools as they’re often plentiful and feeding on small baitfish. As we near the end of the month and water temperature continues to drop, shrimp and shrimp-type artificial lures become the top baits as smaller baitfish become scarce. As we switch to shrimp, pompano catches increase as they feed on crustaceans and mollusks. Small bucktail and pompanostyle jigs work great when slowly bounced across a sandy bottom. When under power, if you notice one or several silver fish skip off your wake, it is most likely pompano. Not sure why they do it, but it’s a great way to locate them, and they run in schools. Circle back around and fish the area and you’re often rewarded.
It can be a great time for targeting redfish and snook if it doesn’t get too cold too quick. Redfish can tolerate a sudden drop in temperature, but snook not so much.
Snook are on the move from their summer homes around the beaches and relocating throughout the inshore waters. If it remains relatively warm, they are feeding over inshore flats, oyster bars, shorelines, and sand holes. If it turns cold quickly, they will seek shelter from the cold in protected areas like canals, rivers, and shorelines with deep water. It’s still a little early in the season for hard cold fronts but they are possible. Schools of redfish that prowled the inshore waters over the last few months move offshore or break up. It’s possible to run into a school, but most reds will be in pairs or small bunches. Look for reds tailing over shallow flats on the lowest tides and in the same areas as previously mentioned for snook. Snook, redfish, and large sea trout are often caught together.
Spanish mackerel, bluefish, small sharks, ladyfish, and jack crevalle are foraging on bait schools inshore and off the beaches. A short distance offshore bait pods get harassed by both Spanish and king mackerel, plus bonito, and an occasional blackfin tuna. Expect some big sharks and possibly tarpon and cobia hanging around the feeding activity as well.
As the month wears on and the water gets cooler, sheepsheads are on the move and hold up around structure in nearshore gulf
waters and inshore. Fish them inshore along the beaches and passes, and around deeper oyster bars, creeks, and docks or bridges.
The first run of sheepsheads generally shows on nearshore reefs and hard bottom or ledges. Nearshore reefs are a good place to run into everything from tasty snapper to giant goliath grouper. Coordinates for all man-made artificial reefs are available to the public and make a great day trip on a calm day. Some of the most productive reefs are well within sight of land in 30- to 50-foot depths. Also, keep an eye out for tripletail hanging just under the surface around floating debris and buoys.
As the busy season kicks in, our weather is often great. On the water is a great way to spend time away from the crowds and catch a fish or two.
Keep up to date with fishing regulations by visiting Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at www.myfwc. com . Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations 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 29 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.”
Consumer Alerts
THIS MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT SEASON, LEARN HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMS
Every year, scammers get more active around Medicare Open Enrollment Period, trying to get your money, information, or both. As you consider your health coverage and prescription options during this period (October 15 to December 7), learn to spot the scams.
First, know that scammers often impersonate Medicare and contact you unexpectedly. They might sound professional and even have some of your personal information. They’ll say you need a “new” or “updated” Medicare card and ask for your Medicare, bank account, or credit card number. But real Medicare cards are free and mailed to you automatically. And true Medicare representatives won’t call, text, or email you out of the blue to ask for your numbers or a payment.
Here are some ways to protect yourself from Medicare scams during Open Enrollment— and year-round.
• Ignore unexpected calls from anyone who demands you share Medicare, personal, or financial information. Medicare will only ask you to verify information if you contact them first, and they won’t try to sell you anything or tell you to pay for your Medicare card. Only scammers do that.
• Don’t rely on your caller ID. It might show Medicare’s name or phone number, but caller ID can be faked. To check it out, hang up and call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800633-4227).
• Get help to compare costs, coverage, and plans. Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for assistance. And find information about your coverage options at Medicare.gov – the official U.S. government site for Medicare – or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.
Report Medicare impersonators and other Medicare scams at 1-800-MEDICARE. Then tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
For additional help to prevent, detect, and report potential Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse, contact your local Senior Medicare Patrol.
Seabreeze Communications Expands In Weston And South Miami-Dade With Launch Of Two Community News Sites
Seabreeze Communications is excited to announce the upcoming launch of WestonTogether.com , created in partnership with the Weston Chamber of Commerce, and SouthDadeSpotlight.com , developed in collaboration with the South Dade Chamber of Commerce.
Both platforms are designed to bring local news, events, and stories directly to residents, businesses, and visitors. Each site will feature a monthly digital magazine, event calendar, and
neighborhood stories that highlight the people and places that make each area unique.
“These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media,” said Stephen Miller, president of Seabreeze Communications. “We’re proud to work alongside both Chambers of Commerce to celebrate their cities and support local businesses.”
Both Weston Together and South Dade Spotlight are set to go live January 2026.
To subscribe for updates and digital magazine releases from Weston Together or South Dade Spotlight, visit SeabreezeCommunications.com .
For advertising, partnership, or community story inquiries, contact Sales@ seabreezecommunications.com .
From The Desk Of Sheriff Carmine Marceno...
REMAINING ALERT DURING THE HOLIDAYS
It’s that time of year! Lee County population swells with guests and tourists. Our restaurants and retail stores are brimming with activity, with shoppers and long lines.
While many of us have visions of sugar plums dancing in our heads, there are others with less pleasant thoughts … criminals and thieves.
When out dining or shopping … please avoid complacency.
While we are out and about enjoying the season and each other’s company, less scrupulous individuals are watching and waiting for their victims to become inattentive and vulnerable.
Thieves make their moves when you are not focused on your purse, your wallet, your shopping bags, your cell phone. Their criminal partners may even cause a distraction … bumping into you, asking directions or posing a question, making a loud noise that attracts your immediate attention. When occupied or looking in another direction, one is additionally vulnerable.
Purses left hanging from the back of restaurant seats or left in unattended shopping carts are extremely susceptible to theft. Place handbags on your lap or between your feet while dining. Never leave your bag open or in the shopping cart child seat. Inevitably, you will reach for an item on a shelf, compare prices or search for a particular product. In those brief moments, your purse is accessible to thieves.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or utilizing ATMs alone during the evening hours and/or in poorly lit areas. Be certain that you are not being followed when departing from ATMs.
Lastly, do not leave purchases, firearms or other valuables unattended or in plain sight in parked vehicles. Thieves scour parking lots looking for valuables and removing them takes mere seconds.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols and added significant resources throughout the county for the holiday season.
Let us all be careful and aware and have a wonderful holiday season!
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 carolandlou@yahoo.com MANAGEMENT COMPANY
D&D Association Services 11000 Metro Pkwy., Suite 3 Fort Myers, Florida 33966 239-364-4325
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
Coastal Association Services 1314 Cape Coral Pkwy. E. #205 Cape Coral, Florida 33904 689-3080
FAIRWAY WOODS CONDO II
Bruce Hamel, President 12561 Cold Stream Drive, #604 586-604-0880
MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Coastal Association Services 1314 Cape Coral Pkwy. E. #205 Cape Coral, Florida 33904 689-3080
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.
