Production
Stephen
Elizabeth
Sales
Margo
Becky
Miranda
Alyssa
Accounting
Selina
Production
Production
Elaine
Ruth
Katie
Dianne
Karen
Michelle
Andie
Burnt Store Lakes Board Of Directors
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
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Architectural Review
Betty Ingerson
Communications Betty Ingerson
Mechanical and Maintenance
Richard Hefright
Long Range Planning
Beautification
Jeanie Jordan
Jeanie Jordan
Lakes Quality David Todd
Drainage
Edie Johnson
County Liaison Rob Hancik
MSBU’s and Coalition
County Commissioners, etc.
Deed Restrictions
Enforcement
Document Revisions
Sandy Funk
SUNNY MARTINEK
Just a reminder that I have a Toys 4 Tots box set up on my front porch. We need to remember all the children who may have a bad Christmas this year due to loss of jobs, homes, and/or belongings.
Donations from BSL residents have increased every year since I began this project, and your donations are needed now more than ever. Remember, only new, unwrapped toys. Unfortunately, stuffed toys are not permitted.
Please drop them off on or before December 11 at 17361 Ophir Lane, off Cabana Road. If you have any questions, please contact me at (941) 456-6355.
IMPORTANT DATES
BOARD MEETING DATES
December 10 at 3 p.m.
January 14, 2025 at 3 p.m.
February 11, 2025 at 3 p.m.
March 11, 2025 at 3 p.m.
April 8, 2025 at 3 p.m.
Board of Directors meeting is Tuesday, Dec. 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
May 13, 2025 at 3 p.m.
June 10, 2025 at 3 p.m.
July 8, 2025 at 3 p.m.
August 12, 2025 at 3 p.m.
September 9, 2025 at 3 p.m.
October 14, 2025 at 3 p.m.
Annual Meeting – October 18, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.
BSLPOA ARC Review Update – October 2024
BETTY INGERSON, BSL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, ARC LIAISON
There were six Single-Family Home Applications reviewed by ARC in October. One of these was recommended for approval. Ten other applications were reviewed and three were recommended for approval.
Additionally, BSL POA’s current Declaration of Restrictions, Section 5.5 Approval of Plans and Specifications states: “All approved plans and specifications must be started within six (6) months of approval. After (6) months the approval will no longer be
ADDRESS
NEW HOMES
valid, and a new application package shall be required.”
Based on this restriction, a total of 30 written notices of new home application cancellations were processed in October. The cancellations involved nine different contractors. All 30 were spec homes.
Seven homes received Certificates of Occupancy in October.
As a result of the above actions, effective October 31, 2024, there were 71 new homes in
BOARD APPROVED PROJECT
the construction process. A total of 59 new homes received Certificates of Occupancy in the last fiscal year (October 2023 – September 2024). Going into the fiscal year October 2024 –September 2025, seven homes have received Certificates of Occupancy.
The following architectural projects were either approved or conditionally approved by the Burnt Store Lakes Board of Directors during the October 28, 2024, Board Meeting.
17211 Nile Ct SPEC HOME: 2,721 Sq Ft (2,092 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car garage with concrete driveway and metal roof color Gray by McLennan Construction Group. House Color Metro, Trim Color Melting Glacier. No pool.
OTHER CONSTRUCTION
24473 San Rafael Rd
16386 Perigo Ln
24204 Vincent Rd
ENCLOSURE SHIELD: White vinyl, 6 ft H x 6 ft W x 12 ft L with one 4 ft gate installed by Peace River Custom Fence.
ROOF: Tile-to Metal by Infinity Roofing. Stone Wood Shake Metal Roof Color Walnut.
PAINT AND TRIM: From Dark Brown with Beige Trim to Alabaster with Urban Bronze trim by Owner.
The Heron Herald Goes Digital!
BETTY INGERSON, BSL BOARD OF DIRECTORS, COMMUNICATIONS LIAISON
Effective with the November 2024 edition, Burnt Store Lakes Property Owners’ Association and our publisher, Seabreeze Communications, announced a new dedicated website for our newsletter , The Heron Herald . You can view the new Burnt Store Lakes newsletter website at burntstorelakes. se burntstorelakes.seabreezecommunications.com.
The new dedicated website features a redesigned newsletter, individual articles, an event board, and more. On the new website, you’ll find a digital flip
book reader with a newly designed magazine. You can flip page by page, click on links, and, at the bottom right-hand corner, zoom in or go full screen. If you prefer to read in an article format, scroll down to read all this month’s content on individual pages. On the top menu bar, you’ll find a spot for previous issues, articles, an Event Board for things going on in and around Burnt Store Lakes, as well as a Vendor Page where you can find local service providers.
Because of this change, occupant residents will no longer receive mailed hardcopy versions of the newsletter. You can either go directly to the new website to review/download the new digital version or review a PDF version on our BSL website at www.bslpoa.org/p/HeronHerald-Newsletters .
We hope you enjoy this newly developed site.
BSLPOA Website – bslpoa.org
COLLEEN WILSON, WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR
REGISTER ON THE WEBSITE TO RECEIVE BSL EMAILS!
REMEMBER: 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.
• Privacy and passwords controlled by member
• Multiple informational pages
• Weekly bulletin updates
• Email blasts for instant info sharing
• Bulletin listings of past notices
• Calendar with RSVP available for events
• BSL information – documents, forms, etc. available 24/7/365
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
… on Sunday, December 8th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., for a MUSIC IN THE PARK CHRISTMAS event!!!!*
Please bring a snack to share, Christmas cookies, and/or other holiday treats. Water will be available or bring a beverage of your choice.
A Toys for Tots box will be available to provide toys, books, and games for disadvantaged children. No stuffed toys, please. Additional information can be found at ToysforTots.org
Jump start the joy of the season by joining your neighbors for a time of celebration and fellowship.
We hope to see EVERYONE there!
*This is in lieu of a December Potluck Picnic
Health Myths You Can Safely Ignore
“Don’t swallow your gum, it’ll take seven years for your stomach to digest!” “Ah, just pick it up off the floor — five second rule!” Most of us grew up with wives’ tales such as these, and we probably believed them. However, as we’ve become older and wiser, we’ve found that many of them just aren’t true — and that there are many health concerns that we really should be getting checked out instead. Here’s a list of medical myths, both old and new, that have been debunked.
Carbs Make You Fat
Carbs are not only not bad for you, but they’re essential to a healthy diet. Holland Matheson, a nutrition specialist, says, “Carbs are the essential nutrients our body needs to survive. It’s the first macronutrient we use to burn energy and survive. Cutting carbs or completely omitting your primary energy source is not sustainable, causing many people to rebound. Go for the
good complex carbs, like whole grain pasta and oatmeal, rather than carbs like potato chips or ice cream.”
Fat Makes You Fat
In fact, fat doesn’t make you fat, and the right kind of fat can be very good for weight maintenance and your heart. As nutritionist Holland Matheson says, “My motto has always been moderation. It’s what I always recommend to my clients and what I regularly practice.”
Vaccines Cause Autism
Several years ago, two studies came out that said vaccines cause autism. Since then, both studies have been proven to be critically flawed and have been retracted. Several more recent credible studies have been published which do not find any correlation between vaccines and autism.
It Takes Seven Years To Digest Gum
While your body can’t really digest gum, it also is smart enough to just move it through your system — i.e., you poop out gum with everything else.
Sleeping After A Concussion Is Dangerous
If a person is awake and able to carry on a conversation, they are perfectly fine to sleep after
a concussion. In fact, sleep is an important way for your brain to heal after a concussion. Just limit more vigorous activities and allow the brain to rest.
The Five-Second Rule
The five-second rule suggests that you can safely eat food that’s fallen on the floor if you pick it up within five seconds. Believe it or not, researchers did a study on the five-second rule, and it is officially untrue — germs transfer before five seconds. Further findings from the study are that women use the rule more than men, and the rule is more likely to be invoked for cookies than for cauliflower.
Flossing Is Key To Dental Health
It’s not that flossing is bad for you, but it may be a bit overrated. You should probably still do it, but its benefits have not been as strongly proven as you might think, based on how sternly our moms have told us to floss.
Coffee Is Dehydrating
While caffeine can have a mildly diuretic effect, there is no evidence that it increases the risk of dehydration. Water is still your best bet for staying hydrated, but there’s no need to be concerned about that afternoon cup of coffee throwing off your hydration.
You Use Only 10 Percent Of Your Brain
This myth has been the subject of many intense conversations and even a Hollywood movie. While it’s fun one to discuss, this myth is “almost laughable,” according to Barry Gordon, a neurologist of the John Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore who made the statement in a Scientific American article. Turns out we use almost every part of our brain, and our brains are active almost all the time.
Milk Is Crucial To A Healthy Diet
The U.S. Department of Agriculture tells adults that
they should drink three cups of milk a day, mostly for calcium and vitamin D. However, studies show that there isn’t an association between drinking more milk and having fewer bone fractures. In fact, sometimes milk consumption can correspond to an increased risk of fractures or of death. While correlation and causation aren’t the same thing, the benefits aren’t proven and there may be risks.
Cheese Is Bad For Your Heart
You would think that since milk isn’t so good for you, cheese would be even worse.
Counterintuitively, researchers at Penn State found that cheese uniquely has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, despite its sodium content. This study only measured the shortterm results of 55- to 60-yearolds eating cheese versus soy cheese and pretzels, but they are currently conducting a longer-term study. In the meantime, you can continue eating cheese snacks in moderation.
Humans Have Five Senses
This myth has been disproven many times but is still repeated. You may have even heard it
recently and believed it. But, what about time, balance, or temperature? Or, what about sensing pain or the sense that keeps us from walking into things all the time? There are easily more than five.
Carrots Help You See At Night
Perhaps as a child you heard that eating carrots would help your night vision. Alas, this myth has been around for a while and was started by WWII propaganda. Eat all the carrots you’d like, but it’s not going help you see in the dark. That said, carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A — a nutrient essential for good vision.
You Can Scare Away Hiccups
Hiccupping is, for most of us, an occasional annoyance. There are plenty of old wives’ tales about suggested remedies, but they don’t hold up under medical scrutiny. If you want to try one, fine; they’re pretty low risk. It probably won’t work, but can’t hurt, and the hiccups will probably go away on their own.
You Should Drink Eight Glasses Of Water A Day
It’s a common saying that we need to drink eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy. The only problem is that there’s no scientific basis for that statement. You certainly don’t
want to be dehydrated, but the best way to make sure you’re hydrated is to drink when you’re thirsty. The amount of water your body needs also depends on a variety of factors, including size, weight, activity level, and where you live.
Alcohol Increases Your Risk Of Heart Disease
While alcohol isn’t known for being a huge promoter of health, red wine may have a beneficial effect on our hearts. The benefits haven’t been strongly proven enough that you should start drinking if you don’t already, but if you already do, maybe switch out a margarita for a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon occasionally, just to be safe.
Eating Turkey Will Make You Sleepy
The amino acid tryptophan does play a role in sleep, but turkey has the same amount of tryptophan as chicken or ground beef. Pork and cheese have more tryptophan than turkey. We probably associate turkey with sleepiness because of heavy Thanksgiving meals — likely with a glass of wine or two.
Old Diseases Such As Measles Are Gone
Widespread epidemics such as whooping cough, measles, and polio may be considered relics of the past, but we still need to get vaccinated for them; otherwise, they can come back. For the vast majority of cases, the potential side effects of vaccines are minor — such as a sore arm or headache — and much easier on your body than potentially getting any of those terrible diseases that can and should stay in the past.
A Nightcap Will Help You Sleep
While alcohol can help you fall asleep, a review of 27 studies found that alcohol reduces REM sleep, and furthermore, that more alcohol leads to worse REM sleep. Ultimately, even if it feels like it’s helping, it’s more disruptive and you won’t wake up feeling as rested. Try taking a warm bath instead.
Reading In Dim Light Hurts Your Eyesight
While reading in dim light can cause temporary strain, most ophthalmologists agree that it’s unlikely to damage your eyesight permanently. Your eyes may be uncomfortable when you’re reading in dim light, but don’t be concerned about damaging them long term.
No Laughing Matter? Well, Maybe To A Dolphin It Is!
We could all use something to smile about. Well, here’s some news that should brighten your day and get the week ahead off to a cheerier start: Scientists have discovered — despite what all the naysayers have said — that dolphins actually do smile.
Critics of this notion have argued that just because the mouths of dolphins turn up into what we primates would call a grin, it’s just the way they’re built. Like alligators. The back of their mouths also turns up, and nobody would call that any kind of laughing matter.
However, European researchers studying bottlenose dolphins in captivity say Flipper and friends open their mouths and do, indeed, smile at one another as a signal that they want to play-fight. When the other dolphin reciprocates, the festivities begin.
This behavior is also seen in primates — including humans. Smiling communicates friendliness and a lack of threat, and it’s contagious.
Caught On Camera
PHOTOS BY EDIE JOHNSON
SURVEYING MY KINGDOM ON ACAPULCO RD.
ENJOYING ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL SUNNY, SOUTHWEST FLORIDA DAY IN OUR COMMUNITY PARK.
HMMM … WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW?
Good Neighbor Program
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.
TIME FOR MY MORNING STROLL.
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.
Seven Mistakes To Avoid When Making Your New Year’s Resolutions
The new year is hot on the horizon, which means the time for setting resolutions has arrived. If you haven’t had much luck achieving your goals in the past, you might be making some mistakes that derail your success. Here are some things to avoid as you come up with your New Year’s resolutions for 2024.
1. Setting Unrealistic Goals
New Year’s resolutions are meant to help you achieve something, so you should set yourself up for success when you come up with your goal. In other words, if you’ve been swearing like a sailor for 20 years, your resolution should be along the lines of “cut back on swearing” or “stop saying [insert specific obscenity here],” rather than “quit cussing completely by March.”
2. Making Too Many Resolutions
When it comes to resolutions, start small. There’s no need to pile goals on yourself. Yes, the new year is a great time to come up with bars to reach, but nothing is stopping you from accomplishing one resolution by March and moving into a new one thereafter.
3. Taking An All-Or-Nothing Approach
Setbacks should not end your journey toward your New Year’s resolution. It’s okay to fumble along the way, but that should not deter you from your end goal. Instead of an all-or-nothing outlook, give yourself some grace and build space for slipups.
4. Being Too Vague
Be specific when setting your resolution. A resolution like “eat healthier” is more open-ended, so it provides you with less direction, making it harder to get anywhere with your goal. Instead, consider something like, “limit processed side dishes like boxed macaroni
and cheese and replace them with fresh vegetables.”
5. Failing To Make A Plan
If you want your New Year’s resolution to go off without a hitch, make a plan. We repeat: Make a plan. If you head in blind, you are probably setting yourself up for failure instead of success. Create a realistic plan of action, outlining specific steps and milestones to shoot for.
6. Ignoring Small Victories
Don’t focus solely on outcomes. Revel in any and every small victory that comes about along the way. The positive reinforcement will give you an extra boost to keep going.
7. Underestimating The Time Commitment
Goals are not accomplished overnight, and you shouldn’t rush your resolution. If you’re planning to lose 20 pounds, don’t set a oneweek deadline to that goal. There is no world in which that is the right move.
Caught On Camera - Potluck Picnic
PHOTOS BY BETTY INGERSON
AS YOU CAN SEE, OUR THANKSGIVING POTLUCK PICNIC HELD ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10, WAS A HUGE SUCCESS!
PRWC UPDATE
Peace River Wildlife Center’s hospital and education center continue to recover from Hurricanes Helene and Milton with help from our community, local media, supporters, and networking organizations who believe in our mission of rescue, rehabilitate, and educate and who have a deep love for wildlife. We are heartened by the progress we have made towards being able to return to our facilities. We still have a way to go but are hopeful because of the outpouring of support.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
Many of you have asked how you can assist us during this difficult time. Currently, the best way to support our recovery is through financial donations. Please visit prwildlife.org if you would like to contribute.
THE MISSION OF THE PEACE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTER IS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SURVIVAL OF NATIVE FLORIDA WILDLIFE THROUGH RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND EDUCATION.
Share our website and our posts on Facebook , Instagram , and YouTube with friends, family, and businesses. While financial donations are most critical, we could also use gift cards from Publix, Walmart, and Amazon. These can be mailed to 3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 ; we are still receiving mail.
Shop from our Wishlist on Amazon. We lost nearly everything in the storms, including food for our wildlife, medical supplies, equipment, office furniture, and gift shop fixtures. Go to https://www.amazon.com/hz/ wishlist/ to help us restock and restore.
At this time, we cannot accept aluminum cans. Please watch for updates on the future of our recycling program.
Due to hazardous conditions at both sites, we cannot take on new volunteers now. We will provide updates when we can. Please do not visit either location, as both are currently closed to the public. We appreciate your understanding and patience.
Our commitment to wildlife care is unwavering. We will rise above these challenges. We are incredibly grateful for our community and the organizations that have supported us.
We will rise higher!
WILDLIFE HOSPITAL RECOVERY
Our hospital location took a big hit from Hurricane Helene, with Milton delivering the knockout punch shortly thereafter. Determined as always, and with some help from local construction teams, we are well on our way to getting back to our mission of caring for injured wildlife. We anticipate that our wildlife hospital will be opening soon. Watch for posts on our social media sites in the days ahead for more information.
SPECIAL THANKS TO CHAD TURNER AT HOME DEPOT , WHO HAS BEEN A TREMENDOUS RESOURCE AND HELP TO PRWC THROUGH BOTH OF THESE STORMS!
RESIDENT WILDLIFE UPDATE
Many of our education center’s wildlife residents are currently “vacationing” at other Florida wildlife facilities while we continue our recovery process to bring them home. It gives us great comfort to know that they are being well cared for by the wildlife care teams at Flamingo Gardens, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Calusa Nature Center, and Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center.
The Wildlife Center of Southwest Florida in Venice and Blue Pearl Vet office
(C.R.O.W. drop site) in Sanibel have also done an amazing job of receiving injured wildlife emergencies from Charlotte County.
These valuable partnerships have been critical to the care of our Florida wildlife during our restoration.
S en ior L i v i n g
EXCITING NEWS: OUR 2025 SPECIAL COLLECTOR’S EDITION PRWC CALENDARS ARE COMING SOON!
These one-of-a-kind collectible calendars feature stunning photos by renowned nature photographer Joel Sartore, known for his work with the National Geographic Photo Ark. They also showcase ambassador photos and winners from our photo contest.
Arriving just in time for the holiday season, these calendars make the perfect yearlong gift of wildlife for your family and friends. They will be available for just $9.95 (plus shipping, if applicable).
All proceeds will go to the care of native Florida wildlife. Be sure to follow our social media channels for updates on when they will be available for purchase!
EVERY DAY IS THANKSGIVING AT PRWC
We can’t begin to find enough words to thank everyone who has contributed to Peace River Wildlife Center throughout these last few weeks. The outpouring of support has been inspiring and has allowed us to progress much further in our recovery efforts than we could have imagined. We
have hope for the days ahead. Whether you donated $5 or $5,000, every dollar is making a difference.
A special thanks to the following businesses and organizations not already mentioned above:
v 4 Seasons Air Conditioning, Inc.
v WastetoCharity.org
v Detroit Lions Fan Club Mutt
v Nation-Tractor Supply
v UnWINed Wine & Beer Bar
v Coastal Isles Wine Bar
v Punta Gorda Rotary & Education Foundation
v Catastrophe Care Group Coastal Wildlife Club, Inc.
v Ann Street Storage
v NextEra Energy Foundation
v Kyle’s Insurance Company
v ABC 7 WINK News
v Fox 4
v Mosaic
v The Pet Project FL
v Punta Gorda Farmer’s Market
v L M C U
v NBC 2
v City of Punta Gorda
v Coastal Mowing & Tree
v The Yoga Sanctuary
v Forget-Me-Not
v Rescue Frankie’s Friends
v Our Incredible PRWC Volunteer Army
We also want to give a very deep and heartfelt thanks to the family members of our PRWC staff. You have shown
up, picked up, nailed up, been banged up, and more importantly, held us all up during this incredibly difficult time. We couldn’t have gotten through this without you, and we are so grateful for you all.
Peace River Wildlife Center 3400 Ponce de Leon Parkway Punta Gorda, FL 33950
For further information call (941) 637-3830 or go online at prwc@prwildllife.org.
Before Toilet Paper Was Invented, Americans Used To Use Corn Cobs. (Ouch!)
Alternatively, they’d use periodicals like the Farmer’s Almanac, which was designed with a hole so it could hang in outhouses. Necessity is the mother of invention, after all.
Beware Of Alligators!
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.
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
December Events
FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
Date: December 1 to 31
Time: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Website: http://www.fishermensvillage.com
Event Description: View over one million traditional Christmas themed lights and decorations throughout Fishermen’s Village. Location: Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Kathy Burnam at (800) 639-0020
Fees/Admission: FREE
HOLIDAY LIGHT CANAL TOURS
Date: December 1 through January 5, 2025
Time: 5 p.m. for Sunset and Holiday Lights / 7:30 p.m. for Lights only
Website: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/ puntagordaadventures/items/577774/?full-items=yes&flow=876637
Event Description: Escape to a holiday paradise onboard The Oasis Tiki Boat! Experience the festive lighted canals of Punta Gorda Isles with our unique holiday tours. Create a family tradition you’ll cherish for years to come. Enjoy the holiday spirit with tours for up to 30 guests, perfect for your family and friends. Lounge and relax on our plush couches while sipping hot cocoa, fresh apple cider, or egg nogg available on the boat. Select cruises may have live entertainment, Christmas karaoke, and even caroling!
Location: Laishley Park Marina, 120 Laishley Ct., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Jessie at mypromotions.com or (302) 384-1116 (text only)
Fees/Admission: Cruises start at $59 for adults / $35 for children under 12
SECOND SATURDAY FLEA AND NAUTICAL MARKET
Date: December 14, 2024, followed by the second Saturday of every month, October through March
Time: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Website: http://pgica.org
Event Description: Be a part of this popular Flea Market Series, hosted by the Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (PGICA), rain or shine! It will include a Nautical Flea Market section with boating, fishing and diving supplies, just in time for holiday shopping! If you have nautical items you wish to donate (sale proceeds to benefit the
PGICA), please call (941) 637-1655 to schedule a drop-off date and time. Vendors are encouraged to secure space now. Vendor spaces measure approximately 10 feet by 10 feet (two parking spaces) and are located outdoors; tents are recommended. A limited number of tables are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis.
Location: Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (PGICA), 2001 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: www.pgica.org
Fees/Admission: FREE / Fees for vendor space: $35 (nonrefundable)
HOLIDAY FUN FESTIVAL – ARTS AND CRAFTS MARKET IN LAISHLEY PARK
Date: December 14 to 15
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Website: http://www.mypromotions.com
Event Description: Shop till you drop! Explore a vibrant selection of 60+ vendors showcasing unique arts and crafts, all in the beautiful setting of Laishley Park. Enjoy live music, delicious food from a variety of vendors, and stunning water views. Whether you’re looking for handcrafted gifts, amazing art, supporting local businesses, or just a fun
THE GIFT OF MUSIC
Date: December 20
Time: 7:30 to 9 p.m.
Event Description: Come join the Symphonic Winds as they celebrate the season with joyous sounds! The band will perform some traditional and some new arrangements of sacred and secular selections that will fill
day out with family and friends, this event is for everyone. Don’t miss out on one of Punta Gorda’s most beloved annual events!
Location: Laishley Park, 120 Laishley Ct., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Jessie at mypromotions.com or (302) 384-1116 (text only)
Fees/Admission: FREE
your heart with the holiday spirit.
Location: Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: www.symphonicwindscc.com or (941) 218-0022 (voice mail only)
Fees/Admission: On-line purchase $23 / At the door $25 / Students $5
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE
Date: December 31 – January 1, 2025
Time: 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Website: http://www.fishermensvillage.com
Event Description: Come ring in the New Year with our family friendly New Year’s Eve Celebration! A multitude of activities will be featured throughout the promenade along with live music, dancing, and a fireworks display at midnight!
Location: Fishermen’s Village, 120 Laishley Ct., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: kburnam@ fishersmenvillage.com
Fees/Admission: FREE
NEW YEAR’S FIREWORKS TIKI BOAT CRUISE!
Date: December 31 to January 1, 2025
Time: 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Website: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/ book/puntagordaadventures/items/581806/ availability/1579840136/book/?fullitems=yes&flow=876637
Event Description: To celebrate our first year in business, we’re throwing a New Year’s party – on the water. So, bring champagne and someone to kiss at midnight as we bring in the New Year with a bang aboard The Oasis tiki boat! You’ll get a front-row seat to the Fireworks at Fishville as we anchor off to enjoy the year’s biggest fireworks display right on the water. There’ll be plenty of room aboard to sing, dance, and be merry with your favorite people. BYOB. We’ll have ice in our cooler
and plenty of cups for your drinks. We’ll even have champagne flutes and fruit juices to make mimosas with your champagne! If you bring liquor, we sell chasers and mixers at our elevated bar. Free light bites will be around the boat for you to enjoy. Secure your spot to see the biggest fireworks display of the year aboard The Oasis tiki boat!
Location: Fishermen’s Village Marina, 120 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: (941) 646 8454
Fees/Admission: $59 for adults / $35 for children under 12
December Holidays
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
