JUNE 2025 RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR DEED RESTRICTION ENFORCEMENT FLORIDA STATE TAXES: WHAT YOU’LL PAY IN 2025
A Look Inside
Elizabeth
Sales
Tom
Margo
Laura
Bret
Miranda
Alyssa
Justein
Anissa
Selina
Production
Production
Katie
Dianne
Karen
Michelle
BETTY INGERSON, BSL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, ARC LIAISON
There were three Single-Family Home Applications reviewed by ARC in April. One of these was recommended for approval, and two were held for additional information. Fifteen other applications were reviewed. Twelve were recommended for approval, and three were held for additional information.
Effective April 30, 2025, there were 59 new homes in the construction process. A total of 34 new homes have received Certificates of Occupancy this fiscal year (October 2024 to September 2025). Four of these were received during the month of April.
The following architectural projects were either approved or conditionally approved by the Burnt Store Lakes Board of Directors during the April 8, 2025 Board Meeting:
17146 Sugar Ct
17544 Tuxpan Ln
24060 Pyramid Ln
17269 Ashmara Ct
17344 Huancay Ct
16234 Cape Horn Blvd
16615 Acapulco Rd
24399 Cabana Rd
17138 Watchtower Ln
24246 Balearic Ln
24273 Balearic Ln
17077 Cape Horn Blvd
17313 Vogue Ct
SPEC HOME: 2,816 Sq. Ft. (1,974 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car garage with paver driveway. Tile roof color Natural Gray. Home color Extra White. By Ideal Construction. No pool.
POOL & LANAI CAGE: Pool addition with bronze aluminum cage for new home under construction by JTS Custom Pools.
POOL CAGE: Replace existing pool cage that was destroyed by recent hurricane. Construction by Absolute Aluminum, Inc.
EXTERIOR PAINT & TRIM: Repaint home with same colors: Macadamia with Toasty trim by Jason Hartzell Painting, LLC.
EXTERIOR PAINT & TRIM: Repaint home from Brown with White trim to Cucumber (pale green) with White trim by Armor Guard Painting. Next door homes are White with Tan trim and Beige with Tan trim.
EXTERIOR PAINT & TRIM: Repaint home from Yellow with White trim to First Snow (white) with Graphic Charcoal trim by Owner. Next door homes are Blue and Brownish.
EXTERIOR PAINT & TRIM: Repaint home from Brown to Ceiling Bright White with Misty trim by Owner. Next door home is Green.
FENCE: Black aluminum two rail fence, 4 ft. tall x 200 ft. long x 74 ft. wide with one 4-foot x 4-foot gate by South Central Fencing, LLC. Installed behind home with 3-foot side and rear setbacks inside property line.
IRRIGATION WELL: 4-inch-wide irrigation well installation by Irrigation Plus. Located in the right rear of lot 10, approximately 12 feet from right side property line and approximately 30 feet from rear property line.
IRRIGATION WELL: 4-inch-wide irrigation well installation by Labelle Well Drilling. Located in landscape bed in left front of the garage, approximately 8 ft. from left property line and 20 ft. from front property line.
IRRIGATION WELL: 4-inch-wide irrigation well installation by Labelle Well Drilling. Located in front right side of home near driveway.
SHORELINE EROSION CONTROL: Restore/stabilize the shoreline from erosion with 6 to 12 inches of riprap. Approved by Ron Kent (Lakes Committee) on 3/26/25.
ROOF: Tile-to-Tile roof replacement due to Hurricane Ian by Global Roofing & Contracting, LLC. Color Estate Slate with Black Antique (gray tile).
Preparations for our Annual Meeting will begin in June. The budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 will be drafted and a mailing will be sent in July asking
for volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors. Our Association operates with a seven-member Board and each year it has become more difficult to obtain candidates to run for the open positions. This year there are three directors whose terms are expiring—Sandy Funk, David Todd, and Betty Ingerson.
Please consider being a candidate. It can be very rewarding to contribute your services to our community. There is a need to keep the operations of the Association running smoothly in several areas—maintenance, lakes maintenance, architectural review, drainage and swales, long-range planning, communications, and deed restriction enforcement. If you have an interest, background, or experience in any of these areas, you may want to consider sharing your knowledge in this capacity.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at the Burnt Store Presbyterian Church, 11330 Burnt Store Road, Punta Gorda, for our next Annual Meeting.
Section 9 of BSL’s Amended and Restated Bylaws authorizes the Board of Directors to adopt and amend Rules and Regulations governing the Association. Effective July 1, 2024, changes to Florida Statutes 720.305, Section 11.4 Fines and Suspension of Use Rights were implemented. As a result, the BSL Board is amending our Rules and Regulations for Governing Document Enforcement. The amended document will be adopted at the May 13, 2025, BSL Board Meeting. The changes include:
• Format changes to improve readability and process flow, including a quick overview of the basic enforcement requirements and the detailed enforcement process followed by the Association.
• Only one violation letter is sent (previously sent two or more). If the violation is not corrected by the required date, it will be presented at the next Board Meeting for review. If the Board determines a fine is warranted the violation is sent to the Fining Committee for a final determination.
• The Recommended Violation Compliance Timeframe (per type of violation) has been shortened from 7 to 30 days to 2 to 30 days.
• If a fine is levied, the violator has 30 days at minimum to pay the fine (was 5 days).
A copy of the proposed amended Rules and Regulations for Governing Document Enforcement is available on the BSL Website at: https://www.bslpoa. org/p/Rules--Regulations.
For a direct link to the documents, click here.
Sandy Funk, President
Rob Hancik, Vice President
David Todd, Treasurer
Betty Ingerson, Secretary
Richard Hefright, Director at Large
Edie Johnson, Director at Large
Jeanie Jordan, Director at Large
Architectural Review
Betty Ingerson
Communications Betty Ingerson
Mechanical and Maintenance
Richard Hefright
Long Range Planning
Jeanie Jordan
Beautification Jeanie Jordan
Lakes Quality David Todd
Drainage Edie Johnson
County Liaison Rob Hancik
MSBU’s and Coalition
County Commissioners, etc.
Deed Restrictions Sandy Funk
Enforcement
Document Revisions
Board of Directors meeting is Tuesday, June 10 at 3 p.m.
Meetings are hybrid meetings held in the Community Center and available by Zoom.
16500 Burnt Store Road, Suite 102 (941) 639-5881
Optimism and Positivity: One of the most notable attributes of June born individuals is their unwavering optimism. They tend to view life in a positive light and can find the silver lining in even the most challenging situations. This sunny disposition makes them a welcome presence in the lives of those around them.
Intellectual Curiosity: June-borns are known for their insatiable intellectual curiosity. They have an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and are eager to learn new things. They are often drawn to mentally stimulating conversations and activities, which may lead them to explore diverse topics and engage in various fields of interest.
Adaptability and Flexibility: Flexibility and adaptability are key traits of people born in June. They thrive in changing environments and are quick to adjust to new situations. This makes them highly resourceful individuals who can navigate challenges and embrace changes as they come.
Sociability and Charm: June-borns have a natural inclination towards socializing and making friends. Their charisma attracts people, and they can effortlessly engage in small talk or deep conversations. This ability to connect with others enables them to form lasting
bonds and maintain large networks of friends and acquaintances.
Empathy and Compassion:
Lastly, people born in June are often deeply empathetic and compassionate. They show genuine concern for the feelings and wellbeing of others, which makes them trusted friends and confidants. Their sensitivity enables them to pick up on the emotional cues of those around them, giving them the ability to provide support and solace when needed.
BETTY INGERSON (WHO ALSO TOOK ALL PHOTOS)
We had great attendance at the Easter Potluck; the decorations were perfect, and the food was scrumptious and plentiful! Residents shared pulled ham, a plentiful smorgasbord of side dishes and desserts, and enjoyed the camaraderie. Our own
Rick Austin provided music, and our 50/50 winner was Joy Evans. Many thanks to Edie Johnson and the Potluck Committee for a successful event!
The following represent only some of the appealing camps for young people available this summer.
Traditional Summer Camp charlottecountyfl.gov/departments/ community-services/recreation-pools/ programs/youth-camps.stml / (941) 681-3798
Charlotte County’s Traditional Summer Camp is run Monday through Friday, 7:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., from June to August 8, for children 5 to 13, for $100 per week. Registration includes lunch, weekly field trips, swimming, guest speakers, and various activities.
Specialty camp runs Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., for $85 per week. Specialty camp does not include lunch and parents and/ or guardians must pack a snack, lunch, and a refillable water bottle.
The Charlotte Harbor Youth Sailing Summer Camp chysailing.org/summer-sailing-camps / (941) 629-5131
The nonprofit Charlotte Harbor Youth Sailing, a U.S. Sailing certified school at Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, offers nine one-week, full-day summer sailing camps starting in June. Students aged 8 to 17 may enroll in beginner, intermediate, or advanced classes to learn the fundamentals of sailing and seamanship. Each one-week camp costs $250 per student, not including $25 discounts for siblings and students who enroll in multiple sessions.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Charlotte County
bgcofcc.org/summer-programs / (941) 743-1507
Punta Gorda YMCA
ymcaswfl.org/summer-camp / (941) 505-0999
Military Heritage Museum www.history-academy.org / (941) 655-8315
Kids Summer Camp 2025 at the Military Heritage Museum offers hands-on history for students entering grades 4 to 9. Enjoy flight simulators, VR, field trips, and veteran interactions. Weekly sessions run June through July, Monday through Friday at a cost of $220 per week.
AVA RITTER
A fish tale … I imagine there are many of these floating around these parts. But how many of them are true? Well, this one is.
My father-in-law was an avid fisherman in his day. Living in Nokomis, Fla., for the last 30-plus years, he was advantageously placed to explore his sport and enlarge his hobby. Thus, when he moved in with us, he came with a large supply of impressive fishing poles. However, at 92 years of age, he fishes no more. So, it was decided during the BSL Annual Yard Sale that he would disperse his rods to local fishermen, free of charge, to pay it forward.
One of those rods was given to our neighbor who also enjoys the sport. Since we have moved into our home in the Lakes, we have watched him load his boat in the early morning and drive away to find his catch of the day. His name is Guy, and he is just that, a stand-up guy! A blessing to his neighbors and neighborhood. We watch him lend a helping hand to those around him. He is a dog lover and a dedicated family man, too. All these things make him a desirable neighbor. What he did today, though, I must share and document his kindness.
He went fishing today. He used my father-inlaw’s rod and caught a beautiful trout the first time he used it. He took the time to report this to us and thank my father-in-law. It was a spark to the imagination. I guess all fishermen love a good fish tale. And they still feel the tug of the line and the excitement of the catch, no matter the age. So, we sit and reminisce here on my lanai.
BETTY INGERSON, BSL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COMMUNICATIONS LIAISON AND WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR
HOW TO KEEP IN CONTACT WITH BSLPOA!
Our website allows us to welcome you and share the ins and outs, the activities, the benefits, and the advantages of living in Burnt Store Lakes.
• We have 1,918 members and 1,300 accounts registered on our website as of April 30. Thirteen new members registered during the month of April. Our website is clearly being used!
• The most visited pages during April included the proposed October 2025 changes to our deed restrictions and the changes to our Rules and Regulations for Governing Document Enforcement.
• If you have placed items on the BSL Classified Listings pages, please remember to remove them when the item is sold.
• Thanks to everyone for using the new Potluck RSVP section to advise us if you are attending a potluck. Your response is essential for planning purposes.
REMEMBER: The Burnt Store Lakes website is the best way to make sure you are up to date on what is going on in the community. We strongly encourage all
new residents and property owners to go to the BSLPOA website (www.bslpoa.org) and register for access. Once registered, you can automatically keep informed. Select the types of email communications you wish to receive (notifications, alerts, updates, bulletins, etc.). You will also be listed in the online Resident’s Directory and find helpful information regarding community activities, governing documents, forms, policies, deed restrictions, and other contact information. Note that many areas of the website are only available to registered members, so signing up is important! Please update your information if any changes are needed. You are the only one that can update your emails, phone numbers, etc. If you are not receiving your Monday email bulletins, please check your email for accuracy.
REGISTER ON THE WEBSITE TO RECEIVE BSL EMAILS!
Remember:
• Privacy and passwords controlled by member
• Email blasts for instant information sharing
• Weekly bulletin updates listing past notices
• Classified Listings
• Calendar with RSVP available for events
• BSL information – documents, forms, etc. available 24/7/365
After you file your tax return, you may be wondering how long you need to hold on to your tax records. You might be tempted to shred everything and toss the debris in the trash. Or you might assume that you need to hold on to every tax return and supporting document forever.
Turns out, you do need to keep certain tax documents for a period of time in case the IRS or state treasury department has questions about the information you provided on your return—or you get audited. But don’t worry—you don’t need to turn your basement into a storage facility for decades’ worth of tax records.
To protect yourself, follow these recordkeeping guidelines.
You should keep tax returns and supporting documents for at least three years after you file them, says Logan Allec, a certified public accountant (CPA) and founder of Choice Tax Relief in Los Angeles. This is based on the statute of limitations for assessments, which determines how long the IRS has to audit your return.
Therefore, keep any documents related to your income and deductions or credits you claimed for at least three years, including:
• W-2 forms reporting income from employers.
• 1099 forms reporting income from sources such as self-employment, interest, dividends, pensions, retirement account distributions,
and government payments (including unemployment benefits).
• 1098 forms showing tax-deductible interest, such as mortgage interest, student loan interest, tuition payments, and donations of motor vehicles.
• Sales receipts, bank and credit card statements, canceled checks, loan documents, paid invoices, mileage logs, other documents supporting charitable contributions, and itemized deductions and tax credits claimed.
• Investment account statements and retirement plan contribution records.
• Home and rental property purchase and sale documents and records showing the cost of any improvements or renovations made.
• Schedule E for rental property income.
“The more documentation and proof of what you claimed, the better, in the event you get audited,” Allec says.
The statute of limitations has some important exceptions. For one, the IRS has six years to audit your return if you underreported your income by 25 percent of the gross income shown on your return. For example, if you claimed your gross income was $50,000 and it was really $100,000, you substantially understated your income.
The six-year rule also applies if you don’t report income from foreign financial assets that is more than $5,000.
Keep the following documents for six years:
• Documents showing sources of income if there’s a chance of an audit.
• Records of income from foreign assets, such as offshore bank accounts.
You should keep records for seven years if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad-debt deduction. A worthless security is a security, such as a stock, that has lost all its market value
or is no longer traded. According to the IRS, worthless securities also include securities you abandon by relinquishing your rights to them.
Bad debt is money that you are owed but can’t collect. To deduct bad debt, you must show that you’ve taken reasonable steps to try to collect the funds, according to the IRS. Money loaned to friends or family that you don’t expect to be paid back is considered a gift, not bad debt.
Retain these records for seven years:
• Documents showing ownership of securities and proof that they are worthless.
• Records showing details of loans, efforts made
to collect amounts owed, and reasons debts couldn’t be collected.
If you failed to file a return, or you filed a fraudulent return, there’s no statute of limitations for assessment of the taxes you owe.
You may need to keep records long term related to assets that have increased or decreased in value since you purchased them, Allec says. This could include real estate, interest in a business, a Roth IRA, and other certain assets. Why? Because when you sell an asset after holding it for many years, you’ll be asked to prove the cost basis—that is, the amount you paid for it.
For example, when you sell a property at a significant profit, you’ll likely owe capital gains tax. Calculating your capital gain often requires you to hang on to documents showing the purchase price, the cost of any improvements, insurance claims, and refinancing for three years after you sell and report it on your tax return. You’ll need these records to calculate the cost basis for the property, which is the actual cost adjusted up or down by other factors, such as major improvements to the structure.
But depending on their profit, many people can avoid paying capital gains tax on the sale of their home. When selling a primary residence, those filing individual returns can exclude up to $250,000 in gains from taxes and couples filing jointly can exclude up to $500,000.
You must have lived in the home for at least two of the past five years to qualify for the exclusion. Even so, you’ll need to save your real estate closing statement for at least three years after selling the property.
If you don’t meet the requirements to avoid paying capital gains tax on the sale of your home, you’ll need to retain records of significant home improvements for at least three years after the sale. IRS Publication 523, “Selling Your Home,” specifies what improvements you can add to your home’s cost basis to reduce your capital gains bill. The same applies for rental property.
In addition, keep records of any inherited property and its value when the owner died, which will become your tax basis.
Most brokerages will compute your cost basis for stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, although they are only required to calculate your cost basis for stock transactions since 2011 and mutual funds since 2012. Still, it’s a good idea to keep all your transaction records in case you change brokers, since brokers are not obligated to hold your records indefinitely.
Here are the documents you should keep longer than seven years:
• Receipts and documents related to home sales and improvements.
• Records of fair market value of inherited property at time of original owner’s death.
• Investment transaction records.
• Retirement account records such as Form 5498 showing IRA contributions.
Maintaining some semblance of order after you file returns, rather than tossing papers into a file cabinet or a shoebox, will come in handy if the IRS has questions later.
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed this time of year, as financial documents seem to come in every day by mail or by email,” says Chris Benson, CPA and member of the American Institute of CPA’s Strategic Tax Reform Advisory Group. “We often see people put all those documents into one box or one folder on their computer, and then when they need them, it’s impossible to find what they need.”
To avoid clutter, consider converting paper documents to electronic files by scanning them and storing them on a password-protected cloud service such as Dropbox, Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive. Benson and Allec recommend using digital folders to organize documents from each tax year so that you can locate tax records easily when you need them. Give each file a descriptive name, such as “2024 charitable donation receipts.”
If you’re not comfortable storing tax records electronically, Allec cautions against keeping them in cardboard boxes or other places where they could get damaged or destroyed if there’s a fire, flood, or other natural disaster. “If you really want to be secure with your paper documents, use fireproof storage,” he advises.
JUST A FEW OF MY COMMUNITY PARK FRIENDS. ♥
EDIE JOHNSON
WELCOME TO MY HOME! YES, THE BSL COMMUNITY PARK IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE IN WHICH TO LIVE. CURT JOHNSON
SUBMITTED BY BETTY INGERSON
This Quick Tomato and Bean Soup Provencal is my version of a traditional soup from the Provence region of France. It’s a satisfying soup that comes together quickly. Serve with crusty bread or enjoy with a slice of quiche.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano, undrained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 (16-ounce) can butter beans, rinsed
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves, roughly chopped, or more to taste
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add onion, and sauté until tender and translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, for about 30 seconds.
2. Stir in tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and red pepper flakes, and
bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
3. Add butter beans and cook until heated through, for about 5 minutes. Stir in spinach, and heat until wilted.
4. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
Cook’s Note
You can substitute butter beans with another canned white bean such as cannellini, Great Northern, or navy beans.
Per serving: 221 calories; total fat, 4g; saturated fat, 1g; cholesterol, 5mg; sodium, 76 mg; total carbohydrate, 35g; dietary fiber, 12g; total sugars, 8g; protein, 14g; vitamin C, 23mg; calcium, 215mg; iron, 7mg; potassium, 1268 mg
If you have a favorite recipe you would like to share, please submit it to bslnewspaper@yahoo.com.
Florida is one of the most tax-friendly states for older workers and retirees. It’s one of just seven states that doesn’t collect personal income tax, allowing residents to benefit from tax-free pensions and retirement pay, along with no state taxes on Social Security or investment income. Florida also doesn’t have an inheritance or estate tax.
• Income tax: 0 percent – There is no personal income tax at the state or local level in Florida.
• Property tax: 0.79 percent of a home’s assessed value (average) – Property taxes vary widely by county across Florida, with an average rate of 0.79 percent of a home’s assessed value in 2023, according to the Tax Foundation.
• Sales tax: 7 percent (average combined state and local) – The state sales and use tax rate is 6 percent, although some goods and services are exempt, such as groceries and prescription medicine. Counties are allowed to add a discretionary sales surtax, with current rates ranging
from 0 percent to 2.0 percent. The average local sales tax rate is 1 percent, bringing the state’s combined average rate up to 7 percent, according to the Tax Foundation.
No. Because Florida does not have a personal income tax, distributions from pensions, 401(k) s, 403(b)s and IRAs are not taxed at the state or local level.
Capital gains from investments and dividends are not taxed at the state or local level, another byproduct of Florida not having a personal income tax.
No, but you may pay federal taxes on a portion of your Social Security benefits, depending on your “provisional income.” In most cases, provisional income is equal to the combined total of half your Social Security benefits, your adjusted gross income (not including any Social Security benefits), and any tax-exempt interest for the year.
Up to 50 percent of your benefits will be taxed if your provisional income is $25,001 to $34,000, or if you file jointly and your provisional income is $32,001 to $44,000.
Up to 85 percent of your benefits will be taxed if your provisional income is more than $34,000 individually or more than $44,000 as a couple.
Property tax in Florida is a county tax that’s based on the assessed value of your home. Homes are appraised for market value as of January 1 of each year by county appraisers. The average tax rate is 0.79 percent of the assessed value of your home, but property taxes vary widely across the state.
Residents who own property and make it their permanent residence may be eligible for a property tax break of up to $50,000 through Florida’s homestead exemption. Further discounts are available to property owners with disabilities, veterans and active-duty military service members, disabled first responders, and owners 65 years and older who meet certain qualifications. Find more information on the state’s Department of Revenue website.
Once you qualify for a homestead exemption, property assessments for each following year can’t increase more than 3 percent or the percent change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is less. This is known as the Save Our Homes program, offering another break on property taxes.
Learn more about property taxes, including how to contest the value of your property, on the state’s Department of Revenue website.
• Sales and use tax: There’s a 6 percent tax on many, but not all, consumer goods and services. All counties, excluding Collier County, levy an additional surtax, with rates currently ranging from 0.5 percent to 2.0 percent. For certain transactions, like sales on vehicles, boats, aircraft, and mobile homes, the local surtax applies only to the first $5,000 of sales. Find your local tax rate using the Department of Revenue’s informational chart.
• Florida doesn’t tax most groceries, although some food prepared and sold for immediate consumption, such as sandwiches, is taxable.
• Prescription and nonprescription drugs are not taxed, and neither is medical equipment or most over-the-counter medical items. New exemptions, as of 2023, include baby and toddler products, diapers and incontinence products, oral hygiene products, and firearm safety devices. A list of nontaxable items is available on the Florida Department of Revenue’s website. Sometimes Florida also has “sales tax holidays,” when certain taxable items, like qualifying tools and equipment, become tax-free for limited time periods.
• Florida’s use tax applies to items purchased out of state when brought into Florida within six months of the purchase date. Examples include items bought online and furniture delivered from another state. No use tax is due if a sales tax of 6 percent or more was paid to the out-of-state seller. If the seller charged less than 6 percent, you must pay the difference.
• Gas and diesel: The state gas tax is adjusted annually. As of Jan. 1, 2025, Florida’s combined state tax rate on motor fuel is $0.37325 per gallon, up less than one penny from last year. The combined tax rate on diesel fuel is $0.382, an
increase of less than one penny from 2024. Additional local taxes vary per county.
• Alcohol: Beer is taxed at $0.48 per gallon. Wine is taxed at $2.25 to $3.50 per gallon, depending on the percentage of alcohol and whether it’s sparkling wine. Liquor is taxed at $2.25 to $9.53 per gallon, depending on the percentage of alcohol. The purchase of beer, wine, and liquor is also subject to Florida’s general sales tax, plus any additional surtax imposed by the county.
• Lottery winnings: There’s no state tax on lottery winnings, but you’ll still owe federal income tax on your prize money. Find more information on the Florida Lottery website.
WILL I OR MY HEIRS HAVE TO PAY INHERITANCE AND ESTATE TAX IN FLORIDA?
There is no inheritance or estate tax in Florida.
If the deceased was a homestead property owner and has a surviving spouse, the property will continue to receive the homestead exemption in the surviving spouse’s name. If another person owns the property as a joint tenant with rights of survivorship, and the joint tenant previously applied for the exemption and lives on the property as his or her permanent residence, the property will continue to receive the homestead exemption in the joint tenant’s name. The homestead exemption will remain in place for as long as the spouse or joint tenant
owns the property and maintains it as his or her permanent residence.
On top of the state’s homestead exemption program, some county and municipal governments offer an additional $50,000 property tax break for residents 65 years or older who meet certain requirements, including a household income at or below $36,614. Veterans 65 or older who are permanently disabled may also receive an additional homestead property tax break.
Widows and widowers, permanently disabled individuals, and others who qualify can receive a $5,000 property tax exemption.
Some counties offer a reduction in a property’s assessed value when an increase in property value results from the owner constructing the property to provide living quarters for the owner’s or spouse’s parent(s) or grandparent(s).
Find more tax information on the Florida Department of Revenue’s website or by contacting your county’s property appraiser office .
I
FOR FLORIDA’S TAX BENEFITS AND BREAKS AS A PART-TIME RESIDENT?
If you split your time between Florida and another state that has a personal income tax, you must refer to the other state’s tax laws to determine whether you must pay income
tax. Many states use a “183-day rule,” which would require you to live in Florida at least 183 days per year to be considered a Florida resident and escape paying income tax in the other state.
To qualify for Florida’s homestead exemption, you must provide proof of permanent residency and relinquish any similar property tax exemptions in all other states where you reside. Valid residency documentation includes a Florida driver’s license, vehicle license plate number, or voter registration
number. Find the full list on the homestead exemption application form .
Because Florida does not have a personal income tax, military pensions and active duty pay are not taxed.
INHABITANTS OF BURNT STORE LAKES AND NEARBY AREAS HAVE ENCOUNTERED ALLIGATORS FROM TIME TO TIME.
If you cross paths with an alligator that …
a. is in a place considered unacceptable, such as a swimming pool, lanai, garage, etc.,
b. you consider a threat to people, pets, or property,
c. approaches people, or
d. doesn’t retreat if approached,
… please call the BSL POA office at (941) 639-5881.
Do not feed or harass it. Doing so is dangerous and illegal.
Visit the Burnt Store Lakes Property Owners Association website for more information.
The stories of Florida’s lighthouses illuminate history and hope.
They are sentinels of safety for ships at sea, but lighthouses provide much more than a safe passage over reefs, rocks, and shoals. They illuminate not only the night sky but the history surrounding the area in which they stand. Communities consider them icons, symbols of where they live, their lights slicing through the night sky and flashing in welcome as you approach the coast.
Lighthouses are a necessity in Florida with its 8,400 miles of coastline, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. With many of those miles having treacherous reefs and other navigational obstacles offshore, ships could not ply these subtropical waters without their help.
There are 30 lighthouses in Florida today, according to the Florida Lighthouse Association, each with its own history and place in the community. The following is the history of the Sanibel Island and the Charlotte Harbor lighthouses.
Charles LeBuff has been closer than almost anyone to the life and times of the Sanibel Island Lighthouse – physically and literally. LeBuff lived there with his family, in lighthouse quarters 2, from 1958 to 1979.
The longtime local author, historian, wildlife advocate, and biologist has enough stories to write a book, and in fact, he’s written many, including The Sanibel Island Lighthouse: A Complete History. The facts in this story were drawn from his book and an interview with LeBuff.
Sanibel was often called Sanybel or just Sanib’l in the early years. The lighthouse was first constructed in 1884. It is still used for navigational purposes 141 years later. But the path to construction wasn’t easy. It took two requests to the government starting in 1856, and several delays until Congress finally established the Sanibel Island Lighthouse Reservation in 1883 and appropriated $50,000 to build a lighthouse station complex on the island.
In the meantime, the parts and pilings for the wrought iron light tower were being shipped to Sanibel from New Jersey, along with a second set of parts for another lighthouse to be built in the Florida Panhandle. But the ship wrecked on a huge shoal about two miles off Sanibel and broke apart, dumping all the components into the sea. A group led by two lighthouse tenders stationed in Key West came to the rescue and recovered nearly all the parts.
The lighthouse was assembled, standing 98 feet above sea level, along with two lighthouse quarters. Later, a third was added. It was lit for the first time using a specially designed kerosene lamp on Aug. 20, 1884, and the light could be seen from 18 miles out at sea.
The first modern, permanent residents of Sanibel Island were the lighthouse keepers and their families. Of course, you could only get to the island by boat. The Sanibel Causeway wasn’t built until 1963. The first keepers and assistant keepers were employees of what was then called the U.S. Lighthouse Service. Later in 1939, the service was merged with the U.S. Coast Guard, and the keepers became Coast Guard employees. In 1949, the Coast Guard decided to automate the lighthouse and left. There was no longer a need for lighthouse keepers.
After the Coast Guard left the station, they negotiated a revocable lease with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which wanted to use the lighthouse quarters as housing for the employees of the new Sanibel National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was established in 1945, but the first employees were not hired until years later.
LeBuff became the second person hired at the Sanibel National Wildlife Refuge, after William D. “Tommy” Wood, the first refuge manager. LeBuff remained employed there as a biologist until he retired in 1990.
The employees were required to live in the lighthouse quarters as a condition of employment. The lighthouse grounds were now part of the refuge, but the Coast Guard would still maintain and operate the automated light.
Living at a lighthouse on the beach was wonderful; however, the living conditions were
not. For the initial years, the only potable water available was rainwater collected in cisterns. There was no air conditioning and no telephones. Obviously, plumbing, air conditioning, and phone service came later.
But the rent was cheap. LeBuff wound up paying $8 per month for rent.
There were only about 440 year-round residents on Sanibel at the time LeBuff was there. You knew everybody. When a car was passing by, you’d wave. In 1960, LeBuff was the 155th person to register to vote on Sanibel.
The refuge was later renamed the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge in honor of the newspaper cartoonist and environmental advocate that pushed for its creation.
The Coast Guard provided a key to the lighthouse to refuge employees in case someone from the Coast Guard had to come down and service it. The key was kept in LeBuff’s office, and he freely used it. “If I had company coming, I’d take them up in the lighthouse,” he said. He was also able to watch the launch of every Saturn moon rocket from the top of the lighthouse. It was 140 steps to the top. Sometimes the Coast Guard staff would also use the key to take residents up for a look.
One time, the Coast Guard apparently came down to service the lighthouse when LeBuff was away. No one could find the key. So,
the Coast Guard cut the lock off, and the lighthouse remained unlocked for years.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decided to vacate refuge headquarters at the lighthouse and move to the new headquarters on Sanibel Captiva Road. Upper management decided that the lighthouse property was no longer compatible with the refuge’s objectives.
In 2010, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management sold the land and structures of the Sanibel Island Light Station to the City of Sanibel for $447.70.
Over the years, the island and its lighthouse were no strangers to the wrath of hurricanes. Sometimes the lighthouse became a shelter of last resort.
This happened in 1944 in the days before hurricanes were named and estimated wind speeds were calculated in advance of a coming storm. But it was clear from atmospheric conditions that a bad storm was going to hit. On October 19, many islanders made their way to the lighthouse quarters to ride out the storm.
By today’s standards, it was a Category 4 storm that dropped to a Category 3 by the time it made landfall. However, the surge was starting to lap on the main support beams underneath the buildings. When the wind lessened as the hurricane eye approached, they crawled across the
porches and up the stairways leading to the lighthouse’s stair tube.
Eyewitness accounts say the tower swayed in the wind and the sound was deafening as the wind howled through the lighthouse support structure.
One can only imagine what the wind sounded like 78 years later as Hurricane Ian battered the lighthouse with a 15-foot surge in 2022 and broke off one of its legs. But it still stood. The light was relit Feb. 28, 2023, with a temporary prosthetic wooden leg replacing the broken one until the new leg was fashioned. However, the lighthouse quarters were swept into the sea.
Today the lighthouse is significant as a historical object and is the oldest structure on Sanibel.
The Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse in Charlotte County could be called the “ghost” lighthouse, since all that remains of it is a navigational structure composed of a single steel piling, with a flashing red light to mark the spot where it once stood.
“The lighthouse’s isolated location in the center of the wide bay and its relatively short lifespan have caused this lighthouse to be one of the least well known in Florida,” according to a 2007 story written for the Lighthouse Digest magazine by Neil E. Hurley, who has served as historian for the Florida Lighthouse Association.
The South Florida railroad selected Punta Gorda as its southern terminus, but the first train didn’t arrive until July 24, 1886, Hurley wrote. Then Congress passed an appropriation in 1888 for $35,000, which allowed for what is now the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse and the Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse to be built. The idea was for a fleet of steamships to connect Florida from Punta Gorda to southern ports in Cuba and the Caribbean.
The Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse, completed in 1890, stood on a cast-iron foundation that provided a landing area just a few feet above sea level, Hurley wrote. On top of the foundation, the wooden lighthouse was a square, one-anda-half-story structure, with an iron lantern
at the top, painted black. The light was a fixed, not flashing red light that was 37 feet above mean sea level. A 16-foot boat was hung on the side of the lighthouse for the use of the keeper.
The lighthouse marked the location of Cape Haze Shoal, which is still a hazard to boaters today, said Frank Desguin, president of the Charlotte County Historical Society. “The shoal extends way out into the harbor off of Cape Haze,” he said. The lighthouse’s light was visible for 11 miles.
The only problem was that the waters of Charlotte Harbor Bay are shallow, ranging from eight to 20 feet deep, Hurley wrote. The lighthouse was in water 10 feet deep. It took dredging to eventually build a channel 200 feet wide and 12 feet deep to the docks at Punta Gorda.
When phosphate deposits were discovered near the Peace River, a new railroad was established to transport it for use as a fertilizer. The Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railroad took the mined material to a deep-water wharf at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island. “The new wharf could handle ships with a draft of 24 feet, doubling the depth of water that was available at Punta Gorda,” Hurley wrote. “The amount of shipping going to Punta Gorda steadily declined.”
The Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse was manned for only 28 years. In 1911, the light
was changed over to an acetylene gas light, which was a fixed-flashing white, Hurley wrote. A 206-day supply of the fuel could be stored on the landing platform underneath the dwelling. In the meantime, the usable depth in the channel had been reduced from 12 feet to 10 feet due to shoaling or sediment deposits. Near the Punta Gorda wharves, the water was only 7 to 9 feet deep, Hurley wrote.
Since there were fewer ships and the acetylene gas lamp was reliable, it didn’t make sense to have a manned lighthouse. In 1918, the keepers left, and the light continued to operate automatically.
The unmanned lighthouse continued operating until 1943, Hurley wrote, but years of neglect had left the tower badly deteriorated. It was decided that demolition was cheaper than restoration.
However, Desguin said the keeper’s house itself was spared, barged to shore at Tarpon Inlet and is still used as a residence today.
The cast-iron pilings for the foundation were removed in 1975 and replaced by a single steel piling. The number 6 was added to the piling and the official name became Charlotte Harbor Light 6. It still operates with a flashing red light.
THE MISSION OF PEACE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTER IS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SURVIVAL OF NATIVE FLORIDA WILDLIFE THROUGH RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND EDUCATION.
Peace River Wildlife Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that receives no local, state, or federal funding. We depend on the generous support of our community and guests to meet this mission.
Peace River Wildlife Center provides the essential service of medical care and wildlife preservation across Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.
WELCOME HOME! WE CELEBRATE THE LONG-AWAITED RETURN OF OUR RESIDENT PELICANS AND OUR DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT.
APRIL RESCUE AND REHAB STATS
Admissions: 362
Releases: 42
Transfers: 7
Year-to-date admissions: 845
After a long journey across the state, our relocated wildlife wasted no time getting out of their crates and right back into the pond. We’re thrilled to announce that all of our animals temporarily displaced by the hurricane have safely returned home.
Their return marks the end of a challenging six-month recovery period following Hurricanes Helene and Milton . We extend our heartfelt thanks to Flamingo Gardens in Davie, Fla., for their generous support and shelter during this time. Their team provided exceptional care and a safe haven for our animals while we restored their home habitat. Also, a special thanks to the volunteers and staff who made the journey to bring them home.
TRICIA LAPOINT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Coming May 2026: Peace River Wildlife Center’s New Education Center at 900 W. Henry St., Punta Gorda, Fla.
We’re thrilled to announce that our longanticipated Education Center will officially open its doors in May 2026! This milestone has been years in the making, and we’re so grateful to our dedicated staff, volunteers, local residents, and especially you, our supporters, for helping us reach the finish line.
The new facility represents a significant expansion of our mission to educate and inspire the community about Southwest Florida’s native wildlife. From interactive exhibits and educational programming to expanded outreach opportunities, this center will serve as a dynamic resource for visitors of all ages.
There are still opportunities to be part of this historic addition to Punta Gorda and Charlotte County. Whether through naming opportunities or other contributions, your support will leave a lasting impact on generations to come.
Follow our journey as we prepare to open this exciting new chapter. You’ll find regular updates and behind-the-scenes content on:
• Monthly Newsletters
• YouTube
• www.prwildlife.org
HAVE QUESTIONS OR WANT TO GET INVOLVED?
We welcome your interest! If you have any questions about any aspect of our project and the building process, I encourage you to contact me rather than relying on information put out by other sources. I am happy to answer any question and address any concern. Contact me directly:
�� prwc.ed@prwildlife.org
☎ (941) 637-3830
We can’t wait to welcome you to our new home on Henry Street!
This juvenile raccoon recently found itself in a sticky and dangerous situation after being drawn to the lingering scent of ravioli in an empty can. Fortunately, a compassionate passerby spotted the distressed animal and brought it to our facility for help.
Our rehabilitation team carefully freed the raccoon from the can and provided three days of supportive care. Thankfully, it made a full recovery and was successfully released back into the wild.
This incident highlights the critical importance of rinsing food containers before disposal and securing recycling in bins with heavy lids. These simple steps can mean the difference between life and death for wildlife searching for food.
This young raccoon was lucky that a wildlife advocate crossed its path—but not all animals are as fortunate. Let’s all do our part to protect our wild neighbors.
PRWC WILDLIFE HOSPITAL PRWC EDUCATION CENTER & GIFT SHOP
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for injured or orphaned wildlife intake only.
223 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
This facility is for wildlife animal medical care only and not opened to the public for tours.
Open daily to the public from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for visits and tours.
Only ADA service dogs allowed. No pets or emotional support animals.
3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Shop our online gift shop at Shop for a Cause!
Charlotte County residents must follow these guidelines unless additional Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) or Charlotte County Utilities restrictions apply.
Lawn Watering is limited to two days per week based on the last number in your service address:
• Even number addresses may water on Thursday and/or Sunday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
• Odd number addresses may water on Wednesday and/or Saturday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
• Locations without a discernable address, such as rights-of-way and common areas inside a subdivision, may water on Tuesday and/or Friday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Hand watering and micro-irrigation of plants (other than lawns) may be done any day and at any time.
New lawns and plants have a “30-30” establishment period:
• On the day of installation, watering is allowed on any day at any time.
• During the first 30 days, watering is allowed any day during the allowable hours.
• During the second 30 days, watering is allowed three days per week:
▪ Even-numbered addresses may water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday.
▪ Odd-numbered addresses may water Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
▪ Locations without a discernable address may water on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday.
These guidelines apply regardless of your water source, i.e., lake, well, or public.
https://www.charlottecountyfl.gov/ departments/utilities/about-utilities/ conservation/water-restriction.stml#
Biscayne National Park, located south of Miami in Miami-Dade County, is a natural treasure trove brimming with a living coral reefs, mangroves, shipwrecks, and hundreds of fish species. That said, nearly all of it is located underwater, but it’s also the largest protected marine park at a whopping 172,971 acres.
As a result, the park offers an abundance of water activities, allowing visitors to take part in kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and boating.
Let us know if you would like to be connected with a neighbor. Neighborhood Watch is accepting resident profiles as a community service for those who may need assistance from time to time, particularly in the event of a severe storm or hurricane.
To obtain a copy of the profile and/or to obtain additional information, contact Louise Barrett at (508) 728-8002 or at lbarrett10@comcast.net.
The BSL website (bslpoa.org) also has the profile forms and information available.
Furthermore, you can register online at the State of Florida Special Needs registry for “special needs” status if you have a physical, mental, or sensory disability and require assistance during an emergency. Charlotte County Emergency Management, along with the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County, will strive to provide special needs sheltering and/or transportation to a general shelter.
Date: Friday, June 6 | Time: 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Description: The Suncoast Humane Society is hosting a Silent Disco fundraiser at the Plantation Golf & Country Club in Venice, Fla., benefiting our shelter pets and pet owners in our surrounding communities. Every ticket or sponsorship helps support the most vulnerable animals at our pet shelter! If you love music, come dance to your favorite beat, while also contributing to a great cause. Included in your admission tickets are delicious “noshes” to fill your belly, fun pictures of you and your “group” taken at our photo booth, and a chance to bid on silent auction items as well as fun and amazing raffle items/baskets. Come join the fun and dance the evening away by selecting your favorite D.J. and music (you can choose from three different genres).
Location: Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice
Contact Information: Sandrina McCloud at smccloud@humane.org
Fees/Admission: Single tickets are $60 per person. Sponsorships available (most already include admission and drink tickets).
Link to purchase tickets or sponsorship: https://humane.harnessgiving.org/events/2763
Date: Saturday, June 14 | Time: 12 to 6 p.m.
Website: http://www.fishermensvillage.com
Description: Electric Blues Extravaganza features authentic blues performers on the dry beach and in center court.
Location: Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Kathy Burnam at kburnham@fishersmensvillage.com
Fees/Admission: FREE parking; FREE admission
Date: Tuesday, June 17 | Time: 1 to 9 p.m.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ events/388995058283265/
Description: Join us for a family fun day as we celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month and HUD Father’s Day Initiative. Come out to the park and celebrate the heritage and culture of the islands with Dad! Live music, games, prizes, and vendors.
Location: Port Charlotte Beach Park, 4500 Harbor Blvd., Port Charlotte
Contact Information: Sonia Owens at caribjerkfest@gmail.com
Fees/Admission: FREE activities; FREE admission
Trivia Night At Coastal Expressions & Wine
Every Thursday, 6 to 8 p.m.
1133 Bal Harbor, Suite 1135, Punta Gorda
Contact information: Lori Sandage at (941) 214-8599 or at loriscoastal-expressions.com
Dance Fusion Class
Every Tuesday and Friday
8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, 2001 Shreve St., Punta Gorda or by Zoom
Contact information: Carla Peralta, (941) 276-1887 or at carlap@hotmail.com.
The first roller coaster was used to transport coal down a hill. After people found that it could reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour, tourists asked to ride on it for a few cents.
Wine-O Bingo At Coastal Expressions & Wine
Every Friday, 6 to 8 p.m.
1133 Bal Harbor, Suite 1135, Punta Gorda
Contact information: Lori Sandage at (941) 214-8599 or at loriscoastal-expressions.com
Live Music At Fishermen’s Village
Every Friday and Saturday, 5 to 9 p.m.
1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
Contact information at kathyb@fishville.com
Punta Gorda Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Downtown corner of Taylor and Olympia
History Park Sunday Market Every Sunday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
History Park, 501 Shreve St., Punta Gorda Email: 118pghs@gmail.com
JUNE 15, 2025
JUNE 20, 2025