BSL Architectural Review Update – February 2024
By Betty Ingerson, BSL Board of Directors, ARC Liaison
The architectural projects listed in the following table were either approved or conditionally approved by
March Drainage
By Elisabeth Geltz, POA Board Secretary and Drainage Liaison
At the beginning of March, we began a new project to improve drainage in the swale behind the condominiums between Acapulco Road and Comingo Lane. This area is engineered to drain south under Balsas Way and eventually make its way to Hog Creek. The plan is to regrade the area on the south side of Balsas Way increasing the pitch, thus improving water flow on the north side. Once the south side is complete, we will assess any work needed on the north side.
It Was A Nice Idea!
Chapter 9: Fun In The Sun In The
Sunshine State
By Matthew Szuchy,
Itwasaniceidea@gmail.com
Finally, the summer weather is back, and we all somehow survived the “harsh” Punta Gorda winter!
Now it’s time to really have fun! The sun is fun for sure,
the Burnt Store Lakes Board of Directors during the Feb. 13 Board meeting.
As of Feb 29 there were 91 new homes in the construction process; 28 new homes have received Certificates of Occupancy in the current fiscal year (October 2023 to September 2024).
but the way to stay looking young is summed up in one word—shade! Or sunscreen, and believe me, I slather it on! My skin burns if a ray bounces off someone’s sunglasses. But I still love looking at the sun and getting in the pool. How does a chemical spread on your
Located off Rio Togas near Burnt Store Road. Sunday, April 14 1 to 3 p.m.
Please bring a meat dish, casserole, side dish and/or a dessert to share with 12 to 15 people and bring your own beverage. Plates, silverware, napkins, and water is always provided.
Come for the food and stay for the fellowship and fun! We hope to see EVERYONE there!
skin prevent burning? It may be magic, but it works. When I was a kid, my mom used to tell me I was too pale and to go out in the sun and get some color. But that was back when they had no seat belts, drinking on your lunch break was the norm, and smoking was healthy. Now you can’t do any of that fun stuff!
It Was A Nice Idea on page 2
Board Of Directors
Sandy Funk ~ President
Liaison – Long-Range Planning
Thomas Freimark ~ Vice President
Liaison – Beautification and Enhancement
Elisabeth Geltz ~ Secretary
Liaison – Drainage and Swales
David Todd ~ Treasurer
Liaison – Lakes Quality
Richard Hefright ~ Director-At-Large
Liaison – Mechanical and Maintenance
Betty Ingerson ~ Director-At-Large
Liaison – Communications
Liaison – Architectural Review
Richard Mathis ~ Director-At-Large
Liaison – Safety and Preparedness
Board Of Directors
Community Standards
Board of Directors meeting is Tuesday, April 16 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
Wednesday, April 24
For Active Home Listings For Sale & Burnt Store Lakes And Village Homes Sold OR For a Market Update for Active Vacant Lots For Sale @ present & Burnt Store Lakes Vacant Lots Sold 2023 -2024 Contact Judy Petkewicz, Allison James, 941-456-8304 for further information OR Thinking of buying or selling?
Email:JudyPetkewicz@hotmail.com Thinking of Buying or Selling? Call Judy to get the job done!
Judy is on the Best Seller List! “I’m never too busy for your referrals” - My business IS serving clients just like you! Thank you!
Judy K. Petkewicz BSL Realtor
Allison James Estates & Homes Cell Anytime Call 941-456-8304
309 Tamiami Tr. Punta Gorda, FL 33950
From My Lanai
What constitutes a new friendship? How does it begin? Does it require having many things in common?
I guess no formula exists, but if it did, I overlooked it the day I met Mary Ann. She is my neighbor and now my friend. We come from different states, different generations, different ancestry, and we haven’t much in common – but I genuinely like her. I like her so much, in fact, that when she asked me to become her partner in crime and organize the Annual Burnt Store Lakes Community Yard Sale, I smiled and said, “Yes.”
I have no background in such an endeavor. I can count my yard sale experience on one hand and take away four fingers. However, Mary Ann asked, and that was good enough for me. Together we created/purchased 80 signs, forged a battle plan, and launched creative advertising on numerous Facebook pages, Nextdoor, and even this periodical, The Heron Herald
It Was A Nice Idea from page 1
So, I have certainly grown into the Florida lifestyle since moving to Burnt Store Lakes. Now I play pickleball regularly (if you remember my other articles, I didn’t at all). I still stink at it, but it is really fun! And people are so nice when you mess up. I guess they keep it to themselves. I just have to remember that whatever anyone thinks about you behind your back is none of your business! I now ride my bike, walk more often, and even play mahjong! It’s not just for women you know – or maybe it is, but I just don’t care! Either way.
Architectural Review Update from page 1
ADDRESS
NEW HOMES
16760 Acapulco Rd.
17425 Fuego Ln.
17141 Pebblewood Ln.
16388 Cape Horn Blvd.
17331 Cape Horn Blvd.
OTHER CONSTRUCTION
17264 Cape Horn Blvd.
24257 Santa Inez Rd.
24170 Peppercorn Rd.
17071 Torreon Ln.
The best part of the undertaking was the many hours we sat and talked. We strategized and laughed. We solved problems and created comedy. She made me a fruit cake. I gave her a Christmas ornament.
Overall, the annual community yard sale was well received. Another year in the books! I made a point on that day to visit as many of the participants as possible. Before the sale concluded, I think I made it to 32 of the 50 homes. Everyone I met seemed relatively pleased with the turnout and the level of advertising in advance. I enjoyed meeting my neighbors, but nothing beats my nearest neighbor just to the left of my lanai.
Ava Ritter
Sometimes I feel like if I stay inside on a sunny day, I’m wasting the day. But you know how wonderful it is down here. Just about every day is sunny and glorious. So, there is always tomorrow. The neighbors are great, the weather is great, and BSL is great.
It sure was a nice idea to live here! And remember, drop me a line at itwasaniceidea@gmail.com.
I love hearing from you, and I need the encouragement!
Stay tuned for Chapter 10: What’s Next?
BOARD APPROVED PROJECT
SPEC HOME: 2,790 Sq. Ft. (1,972 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, office, 2 car garage, paver driveway by TTM Builders. Metal roof with 6.1 slope, color BV Crimp 26 Ga Galvalume. House Agua Fria, trim Open Air. Monolithic construction. No Pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,790 Sq. Ft. (1,972 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, office, 2 car garage, paver driveway by TTM Builders. Tile Roof color Charcoal. House Nebulous White, trim Argos. Monolithic construction. No Pool.
RESUBMITTED SPEC HOME: 2,804 Sq. Ft. (2,170 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, concrete driveway by Axtion General Contractors. Metal Roof color Matte Black (SRI 23). House color Light Gray, trim color White. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,856 Sq. Ft. (2,003 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, office, concrete driveway, 2 car garage by Carpenter Companies Florida, LLC. Metal Roof color Slate Gray (SRI 39). House color Cool Sky, trim color Melting Glacier. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,856 Sq. Ft. (2,003 AC), 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, office, concrete driveway, 2 car garage by Carpenter Companies Florida, LLC. Metal Roof Harbor Blue (SRI 30). House color Metro, trim color Melting Glacier. Front door color Madonna Blue. No pool
ENCLOSURE SHIELD: 6’ high by 6’ wide x 30ft’ long. White PVC with one gate to hide AC unit and other items. Installation by owner.
PORCH ROOF: Metal-to-Metal to match recently installed new roof. Color Galvalume. Installation by owner.
ROOF: Tile-to-Metal. Color Terra Cotta (SRI .46) by Universal Roof and Contracting.
ROOF: Tile-to-Metal. Color Dark Bronze (SRI .29) by CFS Roofing Services, LLC. 24465 Manizales Ct.
24465 Manizales Ct.
17425 Muscat Ln.
17365 Comingo Ln.
17271 Naiad Ct.
16430 Pyreness Ln
ROOF: Tile-to-Metal. Color Medium Bronze (SRI .34) by Bryant Roofing, LLC.
EXTERIOR PAINT & TRIM: From Armadillo to Art District with White Stone Trim. Painting by owner.
EXTERIOR PAINT & TRIM: From Light Beige/Sage to Essential Gray with Gray Shingle Trim and Manor House garage door. Painting by Manta Painting.
DRIVEWAY CHANGE: Replace existing concrete driveway and walkway with Tricircle Pavers (Cream/Pecan/Chocolate) by Next Level Pavers.
ENCLOSURE SHIELD: 45” high by 36” wide by 36” long. White PVC to hide AC unit. Installation by owner.
SHORELINE EROSION CONTROL: Restore shoreline from erosion with fill dirt. Add 6” to 12” Rip Rap rock with commercial grade weed mat.
17387 Comingo Ln POOL, SPA, & LANAI: 21’7” x 47’7” x 11’7” deck with pool, spa, lanai cage and 2 two doors by Menzer Pool.
16243 Cayman Ln POOL & LANAI: 15’ x 50’ x 28’6” deck with pool, lanai cage, and two doors by Epic Pools and Spas.
16242 Cape Horn POOL & LANAI: 18’6” x 49’ x 15’6” deck with pool, bronze lanai cage, and two doors by Mission Pool Builders.
17536 Vellum Circle
FENCE:
Approx. 100 linear feet of 4’ high black aluminum fencing with two gates on left side of home by New Creation Renovation Improvements, Inc. Gates in front and back yard.
Dear friend,
“I Just Don’t Believe That…”
When I meet people in town, they usually say, “Oh, yeah, I know you, you’re that doctor with the beard on TV.” Well, perhaps I should tell you a little more about myself, the picture from television and why I use it in my ads.
Let’s start with me, the guy with the beard. Ten years ago I was living here in Florida. At that time my mother was down visiting from New Jersey for the season when she showed up in my clinic with a frozen shoulder. She was desperate and in pain having lost practically all use of her dominant arm. She could hardly fix her hair, reach for a coffee cup or even fasten her brassiere. Basic hygiene had become extremely difficult for her. She was afraid, because the two orthopedic surgeons that she had consulted told her, “Your only option is to have your shoulder replaced.” I remember saying to my mother, “I just don’t believe that.”
Now at that time I was a chiropractor who worked primarily on the spine. Frankly… I didn’t know how I was going to help her. I just knew there was a nonsurgical solution out there and I was going to find it.
And boy did I find it! I found the answer to my mother’s shoulder problem and much, much more. And where did I find it? Of all places, I found it at the birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo, Mississippi. Immediately I hopped on a plane and flew into Memphis, rented a car and drove out to a chiropractic neurologist who was willing to teach me how to fix my mother’s frozen shoulder. I spent three days in his clinic shadowing him, learning a new technique I had never even heard about before. Eager to help my mother, I developed this new skill set quickly. When I returned to Florida I wanted to be able to immediately fix my mother’s shoulder.
And that’s exactly what happened. After I performed the first Non-Surgical Operation on her shoulder, her pain went away significantly and she recovered to nearly full range of motion. She was so happy that she avoided surgery and got her life back.
It’s strange how life is, because that same doctor who showed me how to fix my mother’s shoulder opened up his treasure chest of knowledge and showed me how to help people with chronic knee, neck, low back pain and those suffering with neuropathy in their hands and feet, all without the use of Drugs, Surgery or Injections.
I spent the next several months flying back and forth to Mississippi learning all that I could.
Many years later we now have over one thousand successful patient testimonials. Many of them were told by their doctors that their only option was to have their knee or shoulder replaced or to take toxic drugs for the rest of their lives to mask their neuropathy symptoms.
Al was one of those patients who was told he had ‘bone on bone’ degeneration. His knee stopped unlocking properly, similar to what I’m describing in the photo, and he was facing knee replacement surgery. He was suffering from chronic degenerative knee pain, couldn’t walk properly and was easily holding onto 60 pounds of excess body weight. His doctors would have eagerly scheduled him for a knee replacement surgery had he decided to go in that direction.
Immediately after the Non-Surgical Operation I performed on Al’s knee, he was squatting and walking up and down the stairs normally without pain.
Al is now in his early 70s touring Alaska in his RV. He has dropped over 60 pounds and is biking 15 - 20 miles per day and loving life. He regularly sends me great pictures from his adventures.
Joyce was told by her oncologist, “There’s nothing that can be done.” She would have to live with the chemo-induced neuropathy in her hands and feet. Hot and cold were indistinguishable and the numbness and tingling made it impossible for her to walk any distance.
Joyce was a cancer survivor only to have come out on the other side with another debilitating condition. She and her husband showed up in my clinic and told me what their medical doctor had said. I told her the same thing I told my mother, “I just don’t believe that.”
After a thorough neurological examination and report of findings she trusted me enough to follow my protocols. Within two weeks her numbness and tingling in her feet subsided and the feeling was coming back.. After 12 weeks she was feeling the sand between her toes as she walked along the beach again. At her one year checkup Joyce’s sensory loss had improved over 80% overall to within the normal range… She is all smiles these days!
You should know that I don’t heal anyone of anything. What I do is perform a specific non-surgical operation that resets the communication between the brain and knee or shoulder, instantly decreasing pain and inflammation, increasing strength and flexibility and helping with tissue healing. For our neuropathy patients we have a 4 step, proven approach that heals your nerves and reverses your symptoms. We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that! –We get tremendous results. It’s as simple as that!
Today in the United States medical doctors are prescribing more drugs than ever before. These drugs are designed to cover up symptoms as your condition gets worse underneath the surface. The toxicity from the daily use of these chemicals ultimately leads to nasty side-effects and more drugs to treat the new symptoms. The current “healthcare” system was built to maintain your condition, not fix it. It’s a brilliant business model for the pharmaceutical industry and the hospitals, but a horrible strategy to follow if one is looking to age gracefully.
That’s where my practice comes in. I have found a way so that more people are able to afford the treatment they need, even those on a fixed income with or without health insurance coverage. One Non-Surgical Operation in my clinic could cost what you’d pay for just the deductible of a joint replacement surgery.
You Benefit from a Unique Offer…When you bring in this article, you will receive a FREE CONSULTATION with me to determine whether you are a good candidate for our Non-Surgical Knee or Shoulder Operation. If you’re being seen for Neuropathy we will take a thermal image of your feet at no charge to you. This will give me enough information to know whether I can help you. Once we determine you’re a good candidate and you feel comfortable in my clinic the complete examination is only $197. That’s it, for the entire neurological examination & report of findings. This examination & report could cost you over $500 elsewhere. But, please
call right away because this offer expires on April 30, 2024, and I don’t want you to miss out. By the way, further care is very affordable and you’ll be happy to know that the non-surgical, drug free therapies and procedures performed in my clinic can cost as little as $300 per month. You see, I’m not trying to seduce you to come see me with this low start up fee, then to only make it up with high fees after that. Further care is very important to consider when making your choice of doctor because higher costs can add up very quickly.
“You shouldn’t be forced to choose drugs and surgery just because that’s the only treatment medicare and your insurance company will cover.”
You should know a little about my qualifications. That’s important so that there’s no misunderstanding about the quality of care. I’m the bestselling author of Breaking The Cycle - how to take control of your life when traditional medicine has failed. An amazon #1 new release in three categories. I’m a graduate of Life University School of Chiropractic practicing since 1998. I am a licensed chiropractic physician certified in functional neurology. I’ve been entrusted to take care of avid morning walkers, pro-athletes and business tycoons you may have heard of.
My office is called Active Health Brain & Body and it is located at 6710 Winkler Road, Suite #1. It’s the gray Key West-style building at the corner of Cypress Lake Drive and Winkler Road behind the Bank of America. The phone number is 239-482-8686. Please call my wonderful assistants Megan or Silvia today to make an appointment.
I wish you the Very Best in Health and Life!
Dr. Rob Davis, DC
P.S. When accompanied by the first, I am also offering the second family member this same examination for only $97.
P.P.S. Your time is as valuable to you as mine is to me. That’s why I have a “no wait” policy. It is highly unusual to wait more than a few minutes in my office.
his story of how he avoided a total knee replacement surgery.
My mother and I featured in a local publication for nonsurgical shoulder solutions.
Joyce is all smiles at her one year checkup. No more neuropathy!
The mission of the Peace River Wildlife Center is to contribute to the survival of native Florida wildlife through rescue, rehabilitation, and education.
What’s New At PRWC?
• During the month of February, Peace River Wildlife Center (PRWC) admitted 140 animals. This brings our total intake for 2024 to 278. Our rehabilitation team released 20 animals back into the wild and transferred two to other wildlife facilities.
• Our education center and gift shop at Ponce Park are open to the public for visits and tours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week.
• Our wildlife hospital located at 223 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for injured animal care.
Cleared For Takeoff!
These two brown pelicans were admitted separately to PRWC in January. Both were weak, lethargic, unable to eat and in critical condition.
After over 20 days of fluids, antibiotics, assisted feedings and supportive care, they fully recovered and were ready to go back out into the wild.
Special thanks to the rescuers who brought them to us and to rescuer/volunteer Donna who recorded their outstanding release!
Tricia’s Talon Talk
This leap year, we are leaping right in!
Have you been by the site of our new education center on Henry Street lately? Well, you should! The site has been surveyed and staked, marking off the perimeter of the site as well as where the two buildings will be located. We still have lots of work to do, but we’re moving along. I would love to take a walk with you through the property. I can now show you the depths of our plans where the buildings and habitats will be located on the site rather than just a virtual picture. If you’re interested, please contact me.
For more information on making an annual gift or a capital campaign gift for our new home, please email me at prwc.ed@prwildlife.org or call me at (941) 637-3830.
Mark Your Calendars!
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Giving Challenge hosted by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Every two years, Peace River Wildlife Center is granted the amazing opportunity to participate in the Giving Challenge. Thanks to this tremendous fundraising event, we have been able to raise thousands of dollars to support our native wildlife. Join us on April 9 to 10, starting at noon, for this 24-hour, online fundraiser. Did we mention that the first $100 of your donation is matched by the Patterson Foundation?
call (941) 637-3830 or go online at prwc@prwildllife.org.
Seppa, PRWC’s resident osprey
Allison James Estates & Homes
April Events
Spring Home And Garden Show
Date: April 20 to April 21
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: https://www. charlotteharborecc.com/ events/2020/spring-homeand-garden-show2(3)
Location: Charlotte Harbor
Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: See website above or (941) 833-5444.
Admission: Free
Recurring Activities
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.
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
By Paula Short
There are two things that people typically ask about Punta Gorda: (1) What is the meaning of its odd name and (2) how is the name pronounced? I knew the answer to the first question but discovered I’ve been pronouncing Punta Gorda incorrectly for many years. The answers to both questions follow.
The name, Punta Gorda, comes from the Spanish, meaning “Fat Point.” This historic, small town, hidden treasure lies as a “Fat Point” jutting out into Charlotte Harbor, one of the largest natural harbors in the United States.
And what is the correct pronunciation of Punta Gorda? Most residents will tell you that the “Punt” in Punta Gorda sounds like what you do with a football, i.e., punt. However, the correct pronunciation sounds like poon·tuh gor·duh. Now, don’t you feel smarter?
Great American History Myths
Fact Or Fiction?
Many of us moaned and groaned during high school geometry, asking our teachers, “When will I ever need to use this in real life?” But during history class, there wasn’t that same pushback – it seemed like if it was written in a history lesson, it must be fact. But not everything we learned about United States history really happened. Here’s a look at some of the biggest myths disguised as facts that you learned about in school. George Washington Chopped Down A Cherry Tree
Remember when your history teacher told you about young George Washington proudly telling his father, “I cannot tell a lie?” Well ... they lied to you. The story of 6-year-old Georgie getting a hatchet as a gift and cutting down his father’s cherry tree before tattling on himself was completely made up by one of the former president’s first biographers, Mason Locke Weems. Weems fabricated the incident in his retelling of Washington’s early years just to enhance readership and profitability of his book, The Life of Washington Witches Were Burned At The Stake In Salem Stories of witches burned at the stake in Salem, Mass., are eerie and influential but not true. In 1692, a
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doctor diagnosed a group of young girls as victims of witchcraft after they began having screaming seizures. The allegations led to 20 people being executed after being found guilty of black magic. But despite what your teachers may have told you, the so-called witches weren’t burned at the stake; they were hanged.
The remaining killing was by pressing a man to death with stones.
Paul Revere Shouted, “The British Are Coming!”
Paul Revere’s “midnight ride” is often an entire lesson in high school history classes, discussed as the start of the American Revolution. The part about Revere being dispatched to warn John Hancock and Samuel Adams that the British soldiers were headed their way is true. However, according to the website for The Paul Revere House, a sentry at the home where Adams and Hancock were staying got angry when Revere arrived because he was making too much noise; to which Revere replied, “Noise! You’ll have noise long enough before. The regulars are coming out!” That quote, though, just doesn’t slide off the tongue as easily as, “The British are coming!”
Christopher Columbus Discovered America
By now, you know this one isn’t true, but as it’s one of the biggest myths in history books, we had to include it. Somehow, Columbus is credited with “discovering” America, but what does it mean to “discover” a place that’s already inhabited. Columbus wasn’t even the first European to visit the Americas: Norse explorer Leif Erikson sailed there during the 10th century, about 500 years before Columbus.
Feminists Burned Bras Protesting Miss America
It was the summer of ’68 when women’s rights activists flooded the Atlantic City boardwalk to protest the Miss America pageant. Retellings always include mention of tons of bras being set afire as part of the protest, but that’s not how it went down. Yes, at least one woman removed her bra, modestly, but no one just ripped them off and set them ablaze. They did throw bras, high heels, makeup, girdles, and other items into a trash can, labeled the “Freedom Trash Can,” as part of the protest. A single reporter who’d been present, asked to remember the scene from decades earlier, said all of the contents of the trash can were set afire briefly, but others who were there say even that is untrue.
The Declaration Of Independence Was Signed On July 4
We know that this famous American document says “July 4, 1776,” but that’s not when it was signed. It’s not even when the country gained its independence. In reality, the Continental Congress voted for independence on July 2, 1776, and the signing of the document actually happened Aug. 2, although not all 56 of the delegates who signed were there that day.
Abner Doubleday Invented Baseball
In 1907, a committee tasked with pinpointing the origins of America’s pastime credited Civil War hero Abner Doubleday with inventing the sport. That would have shocked Doubleday. In Baseball in the Garden of Eden: The Secret History of the Early Game , Major League Baseball historian John Thorn says the myth came from a mining engineer in Colorado. “He claimed to have been present at a schoolboy game at which Abner Doubleday took a stick and drew in the dust the diagram for a completely new ballgame,” says Thorn. Variations of baseball, such as cricket, have been around since the 18th century, but the game we play with three strikes,
a diamond-shaped infield, and foul lines was created by a New York-based firefighter and bank clerk named Alexander Joy Cartwright.
Pocahontas Was In Love With John Smith
You probably figured that Disney’s version of Pocahontas’ life wasn’t biographically perfect. More than likely, her best friend wasn’t a raccoon named Meeko, and she didn’t seek guidance from a willow tree with a face. But even the love story popularized by the movie wasn’t real. Real life has been so muddled with myths that most people don’t know “Pocahontas” is her nickname rather than her real name (which was Amonute). Per historian Camilla Townsend, it was Smith who claimed his relationship with Pocahontas was a romantic one, while what the pair had was a friendship –and a hefty age gap that put her at 12 when he was 28.
Thomas Edison Invented The Light Bulb
Despite what you’ve been told time and time again, Thomas Edison did not invent the light bulb. Since 1761, a number of people had been making incandescent wires. Several inventors demonstrated versions of incandescent lights and patented some. In 1878, Edison simply improved the light bulb. “Edison did not look for problems in need of solutions; he looked for solutions in need of modification,” The New Yorker says. The Great Chicago Fire Was Started By A Cow
The Great Chicago Fire roared for two days in 1871 – one of the worst disasters in United States history. For years, the fire was said to have been started by Catherine O’Leary, an Irish immigrant who sold milk for a living, and her cow, of course. It was said that either O’Leary or her cow knocked over a lantern, which caused the first flames. But historians find no real evidence for the story, just as firefighters in 1871 didn’t, and the Chicago City Council has since exonerated them of the charge. Betsy Ross Made The First U.S. Flag
If you were asked who Betsy Ross was, you’d probably say instantly that she made the first American flag. That’s what we all learned in school. However, National Geographic says historians can’t be sure she actually did, and a lack of evidence leads them to believe she most likely did not.
Abraham Lincoln Was Against Slavery
Because he gave Americans the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862, it has been widely taught that Abraham Lincoln was against slavery. But in a letter during the same year from Lincoln to Horace Greeley, editor of the influential New York Tribune, Lincoln wrote, “If I could save the Union without freeing any slave I would do it, and if I could save it by freeing all the slaves I would do it; and if I could save it by freeing some and leaving others alone I would also do that. What I do about slavery, and the colored race, I do because I believe it helps to save the Union.” So, while he might have been involved in ending slavery, it’s clear that Lincoln did so because he felt he had to, not because he wanted to. President William Taft Got Stuck In A Bathtub
Weighing in at more than 350 pounds, President William Taft was a tad on the hefty side. While most presidents are known for their political ventures, Taft is commonly talked about as the heavyweight president who got stuck in the White House bathtub. Actually, ahead of Taft moving into the White House, a new bathtub was brought in that was so large he couldn’t possibly get stuck in it.
Water Diving And Scooping Birds
Brown Pelican Pelicans, no longer protected, are found on both Florida coastlines. They fly above the water 10 to 50 feet in the air and dive after fish, targeting smaller fish and baitfish. These birds nest on our harbor islands. They can hold up to three gallons of water in their beak pouches, which are like rubber when full. Pelicans breed in December/ January, and the young have all brown colored feathers compared to the white/brown colors of the adults.
Not The White Pelican
These birds do not dive for dinner. They are seen primarily in groups or pods of 10 or more. To fish, they find a school of bait and surround and corral it into a more condensed school. They then go in and grab it. Losing only a few inches to the American condor, they have the second largest wingspan of 10 feet. They are true snowbirds, arriving here about Nov. 1 and going back up north to breed in the 10,000 northern America and Canada lakes. They congregate on 10 islands in Charlotte Harbor. Terns And Some Seagulls
The terns are smaller birds that dive on our harbor’s baitfish. The gulls are slightly larger and hang around other birds for scraps of fish. Both are very good at finding schools of baitfish.
Good Neighbor Program
Let
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at (508)
(bslpoa.org)
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.
Mary Ellen Kiss
Smart fishermen follow the birds, because they know that larger fish quite often are under the bait schools.
Belted Kingfisher
It’s an unusual bird that is often spotted sitting on a tree or on an overhanging mangrove branch. They fly down, grab the baitfish, and fly back to the branch to eat it.
Osprey
The previous four birds all grab fish with their beaks. Ospreys, on the other hand, may dive as much as a foot or two in depth to grab a larger fish in its 1½-inch very sharp talons. If you watch one catch a fish, you will notice that it only takes the osprey a few seconds to make sure the fish is pointing headfirst and that it has shaken most of the water off its wings. Occasionally, the osprey will grab or catch a large fish that is too big to haul off to the nearest tree. However, a big redfish can – and has – pulled the osprey under water. In this case, their talons cannot unlock the grip.
American Eagle
Our national bird is also a fisher bird and fishes in our BSL lakes. It can carry about three times its weight when fishing. I have seen videos where an eagle will catch a big fish and swim the fish to the shore using its wings like a human swimmer.
Frigatebird
This “magnificent” bird can fly up to several days and many miles out to sea. With excellent eyesight, it soars way above the water. Then, spotting a meal, it swoops down and grabs a fish off the water with its beak. It has very large 7.5-foot wings. Its wings are in the form of a W or M, and they have a forked tail. They are primarily seen outside the harbor.
Black Skimmer
This bird flies with its lower skimming beak in water to locate fish and then circles back to catch the fish that have come to surface. It’s quite often seen in groups.
Anhinga, Cormorant And Loon
They start out on the water and dive after fish, catching them with their beaks.
Other Birds
The purple martins and swallows swoop down and drink with their lower beak in water. They eat only insects. If you want to see some of these birds up close, many are rescues at the Peace River Wildlife Center. Otherwise, you need to take an eco-cruise or find a friend to take you around the harbor.
Take time to enjoy our plentiful wildlife!
Bill Kimber, Florida Master Naturalist
The State Of Florida Was Named For Palm Sunday
In 1493, Christopher Columbus set sail, returning to the New World, and in his crew was Spaniard Juan Ponce de León. They arrived in what is modern-day Puerto Rico to make permanent settlements in the Caribbean.
Ponce de León eventually returned to Spain but ended up joining expeditions that brought him back to the islands of the New World, where he was awarded a governorship. King Ferdinand encouraged Ponce de León to acquire new lands, and so he decided to follow rumors of an island to the north.
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.
Some historians say that the rumors spoke of a magical spring known as the “Fountain of Youth” that would rejuvenate anyone who drank from it. It’s said the aging Ponce de León wanted to seek out this fountain to turn back time and return to his youthful body, though many of these legends were only attached to Ponce de León after his death.
At the very least, Ponce de León was motivated to scout out new lands that might have gold or other untapped resources. Whatever his intentions were, he set sail in March of 1513 and landed April 2 on the coast of what he thought was another island. The three names of the ships that set sail were the Santiago, the San Cristobal, and the Santa Maria de la Consolacion
Upon arrival, Ponce de León named the territory “La Florida” in honor of the Catholic feast they were celebrating – Pascua
Florida, literally meaning “Flowery Easter.” According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, this was a reference to Palm Sunday. “Because every great feast was in some way a remembrance of the resurrection of Christ and was in consequence called Pascha, we find the names Pascha Floridum, in French Pâques Fleuries, and in Spanish Pascua Florida.”
Also at the time, flowers were used in Palm Sunday processions either in place of or in addition to palm branches. Palms were not easily acquired during this time. So, in many regions of Europe local vegetation was used in its place. Still to this day Palm Sunday celebrations in Spain are very colorful and full of intricately woven palm branches and flowers and feature a beautiful procession throughout the local village.
It is also believed that Ponce de León named Florida after the lush vegetation and flowers that he witnessed after surveying the site near the coast. According to History.com, “Ponce de León explored the Florida Keys and identified the Gulf Stream, the warm ocean current that would help future Spanish ships maneuver their way home from the New World. He then returned to Puerto Rico and made his way to Spain, where he was named military governor of Bimini and Florida and given permission to colonize the region.”
In honor of this discovery, April 2 is known in Florida as “Pascua Florida Day” and is known as the “Florida State Day.” The state statutes indicate, “The Governor may annually issue a proclamation designating April 2 as said State Day and designating the week of March 27 to April 2 as ‘Pascua Florida Week’ and calling upon public schools and citizens of Florida to observe the same as a patriotic occasion.”
