Reorganization Meeting
Oct. 21
The newly elected Board of Directors met immediately following the annual meeting on Oct. 21. The purpose of the reorganization meeting was to elect officers for the next fiscal year (Oct. 1 through Sept. 30, 2024), assign areas of responsibility, and set the meeting schedule for the 2023/24 fiscal year.
The newly elected directors are Betty Ingerson, David Todd, and Sandy Funk. Prior to electing officers, Lee Fossett submitted his resignation from the Board due to plans to relocate. We extended our gratitude to Lee for his service to the Board as treasurer and Lakes liaison. It was then moved, seconded, and unanimously approved to appoint Richard Hefright to fill the Board vacancy since he was the next candidate that received the most votes.
Dawn Caniff, Community Association Manager
Reminder: Dogs On Leashes And Waste Removal Dogs must always be leashed in Burnt Store Lakes, including the park and all common areas. This is also a Charlotte County ordinance (Sec. 1-4-31. “Dogs running at large”). Waste should be picked up and deposited in the waste containers provided or taken home with you. There have been several complaints regarding these issues, so please be considerate.
Year-Round Water Conservation Measures
Charlotte County residents are encouraged to follow
Motions were made and seconded for the various offices.
Voting was conducted and officers were elected as follows:
President: Sandy Funk
Vice president: Thomas Freimark
Treasurer: David Todd
Secretary: Elisabeth Geltz
Director at large: Richard Hefright
Director at large: Betty Ingerson
Director at large: Richard Mathis
The following areas of responsibility were assigned as follows:
Architectural Review: Betty Ingerson
Mechanical and Maintenance: Richard Hefright
Drainage and Swales: Elisabeth Geltz
Long Range Planning: Sandy Funk
these guidelines unless additional municipality or neighborhood restrictions apply.
Lawn watering is limited to two days per week (if needed). It’s 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 rightsof-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.
From The Desk Of on page 5
Do You Understand Your Deed Restrictions?
Beautification and Enhancement: Thomas Freimark Lakes Quality: David Todd Communications: Betty Ingerson Safety and Preparedness: Rick Mathis Community Standards: Board of Directors
The Board of Directors’ meetings for the year 2023/24 will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at 3 p.m. in the office conference room and via Zoom. However, because of a request made at the annual meeting, meetings will be held quarterly on a Saturday at 10 a.m. for the convenience of those that cannot attend during the week. The following schedule is tentative and subject to change:
Tuesday, Nov. 14 – 3 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 16 – 10 a.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 9, 2024 – 3 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 13 – 3 p.m.
Saturday, March 16 – 10 a.m. (Note: This is in lieu of the third Tuesday.)
Tuesday, April 15 – 3 p.m.
Tuesday, May 14 – 3 p.m.
Saturday, June 15 – 10 a.m.
Tuesday, July 9 – 2 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 13 – 3 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 14 – 10 a.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 8 – 9 a.m.
Architectural Review Update
October 2023
By Betty Ingerson, BSL Board of Directors and ARC Liaison
When you live in a deed-restricted community, there is often confusion as to what a specific deed restriction means and how it is monitored and controlled. To address this, the BSLPOA office will be publishing a monthly article on often questioned deed restrictions. This month’s article covers who can fish in our lakes and the methods used to ensure only sanctioned individuals enjoy this amenity.
Our Deed Restrictions Section 3.1 Community Common Areas states: “Community Common Areas include all pedestrian walkways, parkways, lakes, and water areas shown on the record plat, plus all greenbelts, common areas, easements, and parcels designated as Park “A” in that certain Deed identified in Section 1.7 above.” It further states: “Use of Community Common Areas shall be available to all members and their invitees,
The architectural projects listed in the following table were either approved or conditionally approved by the Burnt Store Lakes Board of Directors during the Oct. 10 Board meeting. As of Sept. 30 there were 103 new homes in the construction process. Thirty-eight new homes were completed in the last fiscal year (October 2022 to September).
Architectural Review Update on page 2
It Was A Nice Idea
Chapter 5: The Holidays
By Matthew Szuchy, Itwasaniceidea@gmail.com
I think the holiday season started because we didn’t want to get depressed up north as it started to turn dreary, dead, and cold. At least the holidays kept your mind off the terrible weather. There is Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas (although I think Jesus was actually born in June or July), Kwanzaa, New Year’s Eve, and Valentine’s Day.
When I was a kid, we were not allowed to put up the tree until Christmas Eve. You may think that is charming, but as a kid I thought it sucked! No time to really enjoy it. My mom would make cookies and mini cheesecakes. We weren’t allowed to eat them because they were “for company.” That’s torture for a kid. She meant well, but by the time company came, the cheesecakes were usually moldy. My dad used to make Whiskey Cake. If we kids didn’t get a buzz after eating a piece, then he didn’t make it right. And my parents locked us in our rooms Christmas Eve so we wouldn’t open presents in the morning before my dad took pictures. We would get up at 6 a.m. and bang on the door for our parents to let us out to open our presents. I’m sure if you tried any of that today, child protective services would be called. Oh, the fond memories I have! When it did come time to open presents, I had to do it really, really fast because I happen to be a twin. If I didn’t open the gifts fast enough, I would hear my brother say, “Oh … a camera!” or “Oh, thanks, a Rubik’s Cube.” You see, we got the same presents, so he would spoil my surprise. When I was a little older, we all just did “Pollyanna.” You would get only one present. So, it better be what you want because that’s all you were getting! One year when I was 25, I wanted a “3-D puzzle.” My grandmother picked my name
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 Saturday, Dec. 16 at 10 a.m. Meetings are hybrid meetings held in the Community Center and available by Zoom.
16500 Burnt Store Road, Suite 102 (941) 639-5881
for whom to buy. You would hate it when she picked your name. When I opened my present Christmas morning, it was a short sleeve button down shirt with a clip-on tie. That was it. And who wears clip-on ties? She said, “What’s the matter, don’t you like it?” I thought “no” but said “yes.” Another Christmas ruined by Grandmom. Back then, the holidays were all about the presents.
In case you need reminding, Florida has nice warm weather all year long. Coming from the north, it is great. But the holidays “should be cold,” or so everyone who lives up north says. You think of winter as snowmen, sweaters, coats, snow, and hot chocolate. None of that is true here, and I was worried when the holidays hit that it would not “feel” like it. True, it’s different, but I was able to do it. And here is how … I watched every Thanksgiving cooking show I could find, stream, or watch. I watched a Charlie Brown
Thanksgiving. I decorated the house with autumn decorations and made a whole Thanksgiving dinner (in shorts and a short sleeve shirt, but still.…).
For Christmas last year, I watched at least one Hallmark movie every day, made cookies, and watched so many versions of A Christmas Carol that I started dreaming I was Ebenezer. I put up a tree (that I could see while in my pool), wrapped the presents (which I had to package and send north), made hot chocolate (with a little cream vodka), and sat by the pool. When I put my mind to it, I can do it. This year I’ll do the same. I really look forward to it. Christmas is still Christmas. If Fishermen’s Village doesn’t put you in the mood, you’re hopeless! And even though now I can buy anything I really need or want; it is still always nice to unwrap a present. The difference is that what I want now must be consumable, and it is about the thought. Tickets, booze, cheeses, etc. No need for any clutter. So, I am looking forward to another Christmas here in Florida. Not for the presents, but instead for the feel, the memories, and the friends!
That sure is a nice idea! Happy holidays everyone!
Stay tuned for Chapter 6: Resolutions
ADDRESS BOARD APPROVED PROJECT
NEW HOMES
16235 Cayman Lane SPEC HOME: 3,292 Sq Fr (2,361 AC). 5 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile Roof in Weathered Ash. Home Color Loggia, Trim color Shoji White. No pool.
16759 Cape Horn Blvd. SPEC HOME: 3,296 Sq Fr (2,444 AC) 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile roof in Weathered Ash. Home color Loggia, Trim color Shoji White. No pool.
17467 Cornflower Lane SPEC HOME: 3,296 Sq Fr (2,444 AC) 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile roof in Weathered Ash. Home color Uncertain Gray, Trim color Evening Shadow. No pool.
24290 Silver Lane HOME (Resubmittal): 2,448 Sq Ft (1,732 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, den, 2 car garage by Val Florida Inc. Concrete driveway. Tile roof in Charcoal Blend. Home color White, Trim color Gray. Includes pool by Jackson Pools, Inc.
16192 Limegrove Ct. SPEC HOME (Resubmittal): 2,902 Sq Ft (2,049 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, den, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal roof in 5V 26G Beige. House Color Drift of Mist, Trim High Reflective White. Includes pool and Lake source irrigation.
24051 Pyramid Lane SPEC HOME (Resubmittal): 3,504 Sq Ft (2,367 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal roof color Grizzle Gray (SRI .39). Home Color Roycroft Mist Gray, Trim Pure White. Includes pool.
24328 Contra Costa Lane SPEC HOME (Resubmittal): 2,659 Sq Ft (1,735 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal Roof color Galvalume. Home Color Ice Cube, Trim Pure White. No pool. Lake source irrigation.
17310 Comingo Lane SPEC HOME (Resubmittal): 3,013 Sq Ft (1,949). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal Roof color Galvalume. Home Color Ice Cube, Trim Pure White. No pool.
17278 Comingo Lane SPEC HOME (Resubmittal): 2,659 Sq Ft (1,735). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal Roof color Galvalume. No Pool.
17217 Barcrest Lane NEW HOME: 3,099 SQ FT (2,290 AC), X bedrooms, X baths, 2-one car garages (offset) by LeBeau Construction, Inc. House color West Highland White, Trim Aesthetic White. Tile roof in Dark Charcoal. Paver Driveway. Pool by Casa Pools.
OTHER CONSTRUCTION
16410 Pyrenees Lane SHORELINE EROSION CONTROL: Move some small cabbage palm and wax myrtle. Do a 4:1 rip rap wall on the whole shoreline. Approximately 316 feet long. By Beautiful Boundaries. 16144 Limegrove Ct. POOL: Addition to existing home by SCF Pool Corp.
17269 Comingo Lane FENCE: 86 ft of four ft high bronze 2-rail open picket aluminum fence with one three ft wide gate to replace pool lanai screening by Superior Fence and Rail of SWFL. Fence will be fastened to edge of pool.
16243 Caymen Lane ENCLOSURE SHIELD: White Vinyl PVC Panel enclosure shield to hide trash and recycling bins by Owner. Two panels, six ft high by six ft wide.
24122 Pyramid Way EXTERIOR PAINT AND TRIM: Repaint home from Yellow with White Trim to Network Gray with White Trim. By Owner.
17370 Cape Horn Blvd. EXTERIOR PAINT AND TRIM: Repaint home to Tony Taupe with Alabaster Trim. By Mario Flores.
24305 San Rafael Road EXTERIOR PAINT AND TRIM: Repaint home from light yellow with light orange trim to Classic Mustang with Peaceful Glade trim. By Owner.
24305 San Rafael Road DRIVEWAY CHANGE: Repaint stamped concrete driveway to Washed Khaki with Pebbled Path border. By Owner
Caught On Camera
Do You Understand Your Deed Restrictions? from page 1
guests, family members and tenants, subject to the rules and the Governing Documents.” This means the lakes in Burnt Store Lakes are privately owned by all members of the Association and may be used by them and those individuals they so designate.
So, how do we monitor who is fishing in our lakes?
Section 7.11.1 Vehicle Stickers and ID Cards states: “The lakes, kayak launch, park area, and other common areas are private property maintained by the Association. Only Property Owners and their house guests and tenants may use the common areas and facilities. When using common areas and facilities, a Property Owner is identified by a valid Vehicle Sticker and/or optional Burnt Store Lakes Property Owner’s Membership ID Card issued
Do you have any pictures you would like to share? Submit your photos, with a brief description, to bslnewspaper@gmail.com.
by the Burnt Store Lakes Office. The Vehicle Sticker(s) is applied to the Property Owners’ vehicle(s) and is not valid on any other vehicle. The optional Membership ID Card is only valid for the Property Owner to which it was issued. Persons using common areas and facilities without valid identification as a Property Owner or guest will be considered trespassing and subject to vehicle towing or other penalties.” This means if you are unsure if someone fishing is a member or designee, you may ask them and/or request to see an ID card or vehicle sticker for verification. If they do not have identification and you do not believe they are members or designees, you may inform them they are trespassing, and you may call the Sheriff’s Office nonemergency number, (941) 639-2101, to report it.
If you need a vehicle sticker and/or ID card, please contact the Burnt Store Lakes Office at (941) 639-5881.
• Multiple informational pages
• Weekly bulletin updates
• Email blasts for instant information sharing
• Bulletin listings of past notices
• Calendar with R.S.V.P. available for events
• BSL information — documents, forms, etc., available 24/7
Wilson, Web Administrator
Join Your Neighbors
located off Rio Togas near Burnt Store Road Sunday, Dec. 10 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 will be provided.
Come for the food and stay for the fellowship and fun!
Good Morning, Burnt Store Lakes, and a beautiful morning it is – as always! Photo by Maria Metge
I’m staking my claim on this house!
Photo by Chris Pfefferle
Surveying the kingdom of Whoo-Whoo-ville! Photo by Chis Pfefferle
“By the Light of the Silvery Moon” over Burnt Store Marina. Photo by Chris Pfefferle
Colleen
White Shore Birds
“What is that white bird over there?” This is probably the most asked question from people wondering about a particular bird species. Let’s start with the most common of these birds.
White Ibis
you look carefully at the immature bird, it does not have yellow feet. Both species feed on the same fish and water insects. Wood Stork
Other White Birds
Great white heron (currently considered a form of great blue heron) was seen at Myakka State Park a few years ago.
You will find this popular bird using its bill to search for grubs and crustaceans in your lawn or near the water’s edge. They do a good job of irrigating your lawn for free. In flight, they have black wing feather tips. The picture shows the breeding color of a white adult with a light red bill and legs. Normally, they are a light orange. However, you will also see this bird in brown plumage. This is an immature ibis whose feathers will slowly turn all white when it is about one year old.
We also have the glossy ibis in the Lakes, which are a dark chestnut.
Cattle Egret
You will see this bird in small flocks following mowers. The mowers kick up insects, which the birds quickly gobble up. The name comes from the birds that typically follow cattle or horses, which also stir up the insects. The feathers are light orange on the top of their heads and breast, but the orange becomes darker when breeding.
Snowy Egret And Great Egret
To demonstrate the size difference, I show them pictured together. The great egret has a yellow bill, and the snowy egret has yellow feet. They are found in shallow waters and near shorelines searching for fish, small crabs, insects, and sometimes anoles (lizards to some). The mating white feathery plumage almost made them extinct around the early 1900s. Market hunters would kill them for their beautiful feathers with which to decorate women’s hats.
Little Blue Heron
This bird is about the size of the snowy egret. For the first 14 months of their lives, the young herons are totally white. So, when you see white ones with the dark blue birds, it probably is an immature egret. The transition from white to blue takes several months. If
If you love to organize, be the boss, help your neighbors make money, and help keep “stuff” out of the landfill, then this notice is for you!
As of November, no date or time has been set for our 2024 BSL Annual Community Yard Sale, because we currently don’t have someone to organize and plan it. So, if you are interested in being that someone, please send your contact information to office@bslpoa.org.
Colleen Wilson
This species is a fairly large bird, almost the size of the great egret, with a black neck and head. If you look closely, the head resembles the bark of a tree – hence the name wood stork. This species is frequently on and off the endangered list because of its very selective nesting habits. They prefer a nesting island with water all around and alligators underneath. This keeps racoons from raiding their nests. In Southwest Florida, they can be found in the water swales along Route 41, etc. Nesting birds are sometimes found in Corkscrew Swamp. Occasionally, I will see one around our lakes.
Great white pelicans are seen around several harbor islands and in front of Burnt Store Marina. They are “snowbirds,” arriving around Nov. 1 and leaving around April 1 to return up north to the 10,000 Lakes area.
Reddish egret immature white ibis, which I have only seen once in 17 years.
Seagulls and terns are also seen in the harbor and at some of our lakes.
We are very fortunate to have most of these birds in our neighborhood. We have beautiful abundant wildlife at Burnt Store Lakes. These are just the white ones.
Bill Kimber,
Help Our Shorelines: Adopt And Grow Your Own Mangrove
Now, more than ever, our coastal ecosystems need support. The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) wants people in Southwest Florida to help by adopting and growing mangroves.
What is the Adopt-AMangrove Program? Coastal Watch’s Adopt-A-Mangrove initiative encourages local community members to “adopt” mangroves and nurture them at their homes. The process is simple: Receive a mangrove seedling, pots, and soil, along with all the guidance needed to take care of these vital coastal plants by contacting Kealy McNeal at kmcneal@sccf.org.
These baby trees will grow under your loving care until they reach a certain size, at which point SCCF will ask for you to return them. The precious mangrove seedlings will be planted at one of SCCF’s many restoration sites, contributing to the preservation of coastal habitats.
Can snowbirds participate? SCCF says absolutely! SCCF welcomes all members of the community, including seasonal residents, to become Mangrove Mamas and Propagule Papas. Snowbirds heading north for the
summer can still participate. Before bidding farewell, just return mangrove babies to SCCF.
Why should you adopt a mangrove? The Adopt-AMangrove program is more than just an act of nurturing and caring for these incredible plants. It’s the beginning of a broader mission to restore our shorelines, provide essential natural infrastructure, and promote equilibrium for biodiversity. Mangroves are not only vital for the health of our coastal ecosystems but also play a crucial role in climate resilience and the future of our planet.
Learn more by visiting Adopt-A-Mangrove page: www. sccf.org/adoptamangrove.
Florida Master Naturalist
The Curious Kisstory Of Mistletoe
The Mysterious History Behind The Kissing Plant And How The Plant Became Associated With Christmas Traditions And The Holidays
Have you ever received a kiss under a sprig of mistletoe during the holiday season? If not, then you have undoubtedly seen the tradition played out in the movies or on TV. The plant has even made its way into several classic holiday songs.
Decorating with mistletoe may not be a holiday tradition as well-known as singing carols or stringing lights up around the Christmas tree, but it’s near the top of the pantheon of holiday traditions. However, despite its popularity, the history of the plant and how it became incorporated into holiday lore remains mostly unknown. What Is Mistletoe?
Let’s start from the beginning. The mistletoe tradition holds that a man is allowed to kiss any woman standing beneath a sprig or bouquet of mistletoe, and vice versa. If a kiss is refused, bad luck befalls the person who said “No.”
Now we will dive a little deeper into the lesser-known facts. Mistletoe is a semiparasitic plant that produces small white
From My Lanai
It’s a problem, the likes of which I’ve never seen before. In my 60-some years, having crossed paths with many of their ilk, I have yet to find any as disrespectful as those that reside in Burnt Store Lakes.
From day one moving into the neighborhood, they came to my door, uninvited. I often spotted them in my backyard. Two in particular taunt my dogs and ignore the boundary lines, the fence lines, and the reasonable lines of my personal space.
berries and grows almost exclusively in trees. It finds its home like many seeds do – through bird droppings. As the seed begins to grow, the plant attaches itself to the “host” tree to steal water and the essential nutrients that it needs to survive.
Not only is mistletoe a parasitic plant that comes from bird droppings, but the origins of the name itself are unattractive as well. It’s derived from two Anglo-Saxon words “mistel” meaning dung, and “tan” meaning stick or branch.
So where does the tradition of kissing others underneath the branches of a small parasitic plant come from?
The History Of Mistletoe
The puzzle begins in the first century A.D. with an ancient civilization. The consensus among experts is that the use of mistletoe in ritual form started with the Celtic Druids. This ancient civilization of people lived on the British Isles in what is now Ireland and Scotland.
The mistletoe became a sacred symbol of vivacity and fertility to the Druids after they saw it blooming in the trees during the harsh winters. It would later become a central focus of the Ritual of Oak and Mistletoe, a ceremony that led the Romans to call the Druids “barbarians.”
Another piece of the mistletoe puzzle comes from Norse mythology. In the Norse culture, the mistletoe plant was a sign of love and peace. The story goes that the goddess Figg lost her
One sunny day, as I opened my front door unaware, the boldest one even thought to enter my home. Enough! Is it just me? Am I the only one to notice the brazenness of the local squirrel population? Are Rocky and Bullwinkle, the rodents in my locale, the exception, or the rule? I don’t feed them or do anything to encourage this behavior. And yet, I’ve come to appreciate that I can watch the squirrels from my screened-in lanai.
son, the god Baldur, to an arrow made of mistletoe. After his death, she vowed that mistletoe would kiss anyone who passed beneath so long as it was never again used as a weapon.
The last piece of the puzzle leads us to the tradition that we know and love today. The kissing tradition as we know it appears to have started in 18th century England where it first became widely used as a Christmas decoration. The tradition spread quickly throughout the world. Beginning as a custom among the lower classes, it made its way to all classes, becoming a universal holiday ritual.
So, next time you find yourself puckering up under the mistletoe, remember that it all started with bird droppings, a parasite, barbarians, and a Norse goddess. Cheers!
From The Desk Of from page 1
New Lawns And Plants
They have a “30-30” establishment period.
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.
Fishing In Burnt Store Lakes
All BSL residents may walk or fish along the shoreline of the lakes. Those enjoying a stroll or fishing are asked to be respectful of others’ property. Learn where the association’s common property is and how to access the shoreline easily, so you don’t trespass on someone else’s lot. Those fishing should bring their BSL identification card and only walk on the association property. If unsure, stop and ask for permission to walk along the shoreline. Always be respectful. Be quiet while strolling or fishing from the shoreline and make sure you pick up and properly dispose of all garbage.
Residents whose homes are adjacent to the lakes are asked to be respectful of those taking a stroll or fishing from the shoreline. If unsure if someone is a resident, ask them for proof of residency or call the Charlotte County Sheriff’s nonemergency line at (941) 639-2101.
Respecting Other’s Property
While enjoying our beautiful community, please respect each other’s property by not wandering through or across vacant lots. While it might seem like a harmless jaunt, the lot owner may consider you trespassing. The same applies to the new home construction sites in our community. While it’s intriguing to see what is being built, construction sites are dangerous, and trespassing is never allowed. Be a great neighbor and save the tour for when new owners invite you. If you notice something suspicious or out of the ordinary, contact the Charlotte County Sheriff’s nonemergency line at (941) 639-2101.
Ava Ritter
December Events
Punta Gorda YMCA Adult
Martial Arts
Date: Beginning Friday, Dec. 1, (and every Monday, Wednesday, Friday thereafter)
Time: 7 to 7:50 p.m.
Website: https://www.ymcaswfl.org
Event Description: This 10-week adult martial arts program teaches the ability of restraint, focus, and control. This discipline will help adults engage more in physical activity and teach them self-defense skills. Our focus is on instilling values such as discipline, becoming more self-aware, and the ability to put mind over matter!
Location: Punta Gorda YMCA, 2905 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: (941) 505-0999
Fees/Admission: $140 members, $200 community
Paws For A Cause – AWL’s 60th Anniversary Celebration
Date: Saturday, Dec. 3
Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Website: http://awlshelter.org/pawsfor-a-cause
Event Description: Join us as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Animal Welfare League (AWL) with a spectacular event, “Paws for a Cause,” presented by Gettel of Charlotte County. This milestone celebration promises a day filled with fun activities and opportunities to support our beloved furry friends. Activities abound with an array of vendors offering pet-related products and services, ensuring a delightful shopping experience for all attendees. Get ready to unleash your competitive spirit at the games section, where you can participate in various engaging activities and win exciting prizes. Test your aim and teamwork in the thrilling Cornhole Tournament, a perfect opportunity to bond with fellow animal lovers. The event will be rocking with live music, setting the perfect ambiance for a day of celebration. Capture memorable moments with your friends, family, and pets at the delightful photo booth. Talented caricature artists will be on hand to create adorable keepsakes of your beloved furry companions.
What makes Paws for a Cause even more special is the presence of adoptable pets on-site, giving attendees a chance to find their perfect forever friend and provide a loving home to a deserving animal. Your ticket purchase will directly support the Animal Welfare League’s ongoing efforts to provide essential care and shelter to animals in need. So, mark your calendars and prepare for a day of joy, compassion, and furry friendships at Paws for a Cause. Help us celebrate 60 years of making a difference in the lives of animals, and together, we can create a brighter future for all our four-legged companions.
Location: TT’s Tiki Bar, Harborside Garden, 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Beth Marcino, (941) 625-6720, Ext. 107
Fees/Admission: Tickets are $5 each. Dogs and kids under 12 are free
Long Lunch Sightseeing And Culinary Tour
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 6
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (and every Wednesday thereafter through April 2024)
Website: https://swfloridawalkingtours.com/tours-2/ long-lunch-tour/
end to another. Meet friendly restaurateurs and their staff, as well as other Punta Gorda denizens. Sightseeing stops can include the historic County Courthouse, Chamber of Commerce, Artisan’s Atelier and Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial.
Location: Historic downtown Punta Gorda
Contact Information: https://swfloridawalkingtours. com/tours-2/long-lunch-tour / SWFLWalkingTours@ outlook.com
Fees/Admission: $39 per guest. Minimum of four, maximum of 10
Boston Tea Party
Date: Saturday, Dec. 16
Time: 11:30 a.m. (arrive at King Fisher Fleet)
Website: https:// militaryheritagemuseum. doubleknot.com/event/ boston-tea-party/3008527
Event Description: Join us on a memorable experience as we enjoy some of the culinary treasures Punta Gorda has to offer, as well as exploring the history of this Victorianera resort village. Over the course of three hours, you’ll taste local specialties and experience our renowned Punta Gorda hospitality while exploring the charming historic downtown from one
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.
Event Description: Come Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Famous Boston Tea Party. Enter a drawing for the best dressed costumes. Four $25 gift cards to the Village Brewhouse! Cash bar will be available on the King Fisher. Hors d’oeuvres provided by Chef’s Corner Eatery, tea by the Spice and Tea Exchange, and dessert by Village Brewhouse
Deadline for Tickets: Dec. 11
Location: King Fisher Fleet at Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Lucy Linet, (941) 205-8546
Fees/Admission: $50 per person. Purchase at www. militaryheritagemuseum.org.
Sharadan Edmonds 941-875-6525
Allison James Estates & Homes
25000 Harborside Blvd.
Punta Gorda, FL 33955
(Corner of Burnt Store Rd & Harborside Blvd)
Burnt Store Isles 355 Trieste Dr.
$1,299,999
Gulf access, Sailboat Water with NO Bridges. Over 3400+ sq ft of living space with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, NEW IMPACT Windows & Doors / Heated Pool & Spa and NEW 10k Boat Lift & Dock.
Burnt Store Lakes 24342 Saragossa Ln.
$649,999
Burnt Store Lakes waterfront pool home featuring 3 bedrooms + 2 baths + 3 Car Garage and over 2200+ sq ft of living space. NEW Roof installed 2023
Pirate Harbor 24231 Captain Kidd Blvd.
$660,000 Gulf Access Canal-Front Home Two Bed/Two Bath/Oversized Garage Incredible Views + Boat House + Concrete Seawall
Linda Dutcher
941-268-1372
Burnt Store Marina 3280 South Shore 88A
$789,000
Best View in Marina South Shore. Furnished Turnkey/3 Bed/2 Bath/ Private Garage, Glass Enclosed Lanai Included in the 2,592 Sq. Ft. Expansive 2,000 Ft. Waterfront Views of the Harbor and Marina.
Pirate Harbor 24397 Treasure Island Blvd.
$829,000 Gulf Access Canal-Front Home Four Beds/Two Baths/Three Car Garage 100 Ft Seawall with Boat Lift w/ Canopy & Davits with Concrete Dock
Punta Gorda Isles 2327 Via Veneto Drive
In Burnt Store Lakes
Twas the night before Christmas when all through the Lakes, Not a creature was stirring, not even the snakes. The stockings were hung in the house with great care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of iPhones danced in their heads. And mom and I snuggling, hoping to sleep, Had just settled down with a prayer “for to keep.”
When on the lanai there arose such a clatter, I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter. Away to the sliding glass doors I dashed, And opened them wide in a flash.
The moon overhead was producing a glow, Which gave the appearance of daylight to the palm trees below. And what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so likely and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled and shouted and called them by name!
Now, Andrew! Now, Rita! Now, Charley and Dean! On Michael! On Ian! On Lee and Irene! From the top of the roof to the lanai they flew, With a sleigh full of tech toys and St. Nicolas, too.
As I gaped at the sight and was turning to look, Through the door came St. Nicolas, checking names in his book.
He was sweating in fur, from his feet to his head, Wishing he had worn shorts and a T-shirt instead.
His eyes how they twinkled! His dimples, how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard on his chin was as white as snow.
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke encircled his head like a wreath. He had a broad face and a round little belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of jelly.
$400,000 Gulf Access Canal-Front Vacant Lot. Sailboat Water, No Bridges! Huge Lot. Close to Downtown and Riverfront Over 70 Ft. Concrete Seawall Punta Gorda Isles
Bal Harbor Blvd. #2201 $282,900
Preserve at Bal Harbor is a gated community w/ Elevator & Resort like amenities. Close to Fishermans
& Downtown Punta Gorda. Two Bedrooms + Two Baths with lanai & under building Parking w/ 10’ x 10’ Storage.
Gorda Isles 1447 Mediterranean Drive
$395,000 Punta Gorda Isles Gulf Access land with 185 feet of Concrete Seawall. Huge One-Third Acre lot, Zoned GM15. Suitable for Condos/Duplex or Single Family Home Developments.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself. A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon made me believe I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word but went straight to his work, Laid out all the presents, then turned with a jerk. He bounded back out the door and hopped in his sleigh, Gave his team a command, and they whisked him away.
And I heard him exclaim as he flew out of sight, “Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.” Paula Short
The BSL neighborhood Bible Study meets every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the BSL meeting room adjacent to and behind the office. Everyone is welcome! Meet new and old neighbors and study the Bible together.
Marv Kelso, who leads the study, has over 50 years of experience leading nondenominational studies in the Young Life Mission.
Contact Marv at marvnan1956@gmail.com or (719) 207-3660 to ensure he will have sufficient handout materials.
