BSL Architectural Review Update – May 2024
By Betty Ingerson, BSL Board of Directors, ARC Liaison
The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) was extremely busy over the last month. Multiple meetings were scheduled to review all the applications received. There were 36 new home applications and 15 other applications to process. Every application is reviewed for complete
A Perspective?
Recently, there has been a lot of chatter regarding BSLPOA Board performance or nonperformance, and even a proposal to establish a Facebook site for just Burnt Store Lakes. Opinions are freely expressed, but issues and solutions are addressed at the monthly Board meetings – not in open forums.
content submission and for consistency with our deed restrictions. In many instances, required documentation is missing or the application does not meet our deed restrictions. In these cases, the submitter is notified of the problem and is asked to bring the application into compliance. Depending on the resolution, the application may be rejected or delayed another month while changes are being made. Once ARC has reviewed the final applications, recommendations (Approve or Reject) are made to the Board of Directors. The Board makes the final decision on all architectural applications.
The Board’s fiduciary responsibility as a Property Owners Association (POA), is to maintain the common elements of the community (lakes, common areas, greenbelts, the Park, etc.) as well as management of Association assets and the overall environment of the community. More specifically, compliance with the Deed Restrictions, many of which are defined by State Statute and the Rules and Regulations. The Board has limited policing powers other than a lengthy fining process.
Now to the subject of this perspective. When the decision was made to make Burnt Store Lakes, a Deed Restricted Community, your home, you made a commitment to your neighbors to abide by the Deed Restrictions and the Rules and Regulations. It would follow and be logical that we are self-policing, and we each need to comply with these rules. It is the Board’s responsibility to take care of the rest, which from time to time involves legal counsel.
A Perspective on page 4
BSL Has Growing Pains!
By Betty Ingerson, BSL Board of Directors, Communications and ARC Liaison
I think you will agree that Burnt Store Lakes is rapidly growing! All one needs to do is drive down Cape Horn or multiple other streets and see the ever-expanding number of construction sites. While it is good news that people want to live and build in the Burnt Store Lakes community, the growing pains are not easy on those of us who currently live here. Roads and cul-de-sacs are sometimes impassable, and some construction sites leave much to be desired in terms of adhering to our Clean Site Rules and Regulations. There is very little your Board can do to slow down the construction progress. Per our legal counsel, under Florida
law if the owner of a lot desires to build on it and submits an application, the application must be approved if it meets our
BSL Has Growing Pains on page 3
The architectural projects listed in the following table were either approved or conditionally approved by the Burnt Store Lakes Board of Directors during the May 2024 Board Meeting. As of May 30, 2024, there were 120 new homes in the construction process. Thirty-seven (37) new homes have received Certificates of Occupancy in the current fiscal year (October 2023 to September 2024).
Architectural Review Update on page 2
Board Of Directors Election
We are starting preparations for our Annual Meeting that will be held on Saturday, Oct. 19. There are four directors whose terms are expiring – Thomas Freimark, Richard Hefright, Elisabeth Geltz and Rick Mathis. If you are interested in volunteering your time to our community, please consider having your name placed on the ballot for October! Please submit a short biography to the BSLPOA office no later than Aug. 1
Board Of Directors
Sandy Funk ~ President
Liaison – Long-Range Planning
Richard Hefright ~ Vice President
Liaison – Mechanical & Maintenance and Beautification
Elisabeth Geltz ~ Secretary
Liaison – Drainage and Swales
David Todd ~ Treasurer
Liaison – Lakes Quality
Thomas Freimark ~ Director-At-Large
Liaison – Beautification
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, July 9 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
Architectural Review Update from page 1
ADDRESS BOARD APPROVED PROJECT NEW HOMES
24487 Gijon Ln
24375 Belize Ct
16309 Cayman Ln
16505 Togas Way
17065 Thyme Ct
17464 Malarky Ln
17456 Malarky Ln
RESUBMITTED SPEC HOME: 3,504 Sq Ft (2,368 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, study, great room, family room, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal roof color Grizzle Gray. Home color Roycroft Mist Gray, trim Pure White. Includes pool.
RESUBMITTED SPEC HOME: 3,046 Sq Ft (1,961 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, den, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal roof color Gray. Home color Snowbound, trim Useful Gray. Pool later.
RESUBMITTED SPEC HOME: 3,046 Sq Ft (1,961 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 2 car garage, paver driveway. Metal roof color Grizzle Gray by Groff Building Contractors. Home color Ice Cube, trim Pure White. Pool later.
SPEC HOME: 3,504 Sq Ft (2,368 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, study, great room, family room, 3 car garage, paver driveway. Metal roof color Champagne by Groff Building Contractors. Home color Gossamer, trim Highly Reflective White. Pool later.
SPEC HOME: 2,789 Sq Ft (1,803 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. 2 car garage, paver driveway. Metal roof color Grizzle Gray by Groff Building Contractors. Pool later.
SPEC HOME: 2,902 Sq Ft (2,045 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Groff Building Contractors. Metal roof color Grizzle Gray. Home color Ice Cube, trim Pure White.
SPEC HOME: 3,014 Sq Ft (1,949 AC). 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway. Metal roof color Champagne by Groff Building Contractors. Home color Gossamer, trim Highly Reflective White.
16357 Cape Horn Blvd SPEC HOME: 3,485 Sq Ft (2,351 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Charcoal. Home color Passive, trim Natural White. No pool. 24482 San Rafael Rd
SPEC HOME: 3,334 Sq Ft (2,084 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large front porch, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Ash Gray. Home color Natural White, trim Natural White. No pool.
16288 Cape Horn Blvd SPEC HOME: 3,485 Sq Ft (2,351 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Medium Bronze. Home color Pavilion Beige, trim Natural White. White stone cladding on front. No pool.
16899 Acapulco Rd SPEC HOME: 3,485 Sq Ft (2,351 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Ash Gray. Home color Contented, trim Natural White. No pool. 17293 Cape Horn Blvd SPEC HOME: 3,485 Sq Ft (2,351 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 bath, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Ash Gray. Home color Contented, trim Natural White. Stone cladding on front Cumberland Fog. No pool.
17282 Asmara Ct SPEC HOME: 3,334 Sq Ft (2,084 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large front porch, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Surrey Beige. Home color Pavilion Beige, trim Natural White. No pool.
17297 Muscat Ln SPEC HOME: 3,334 Sq Ft (2,084 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large front porch, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Medium Bronze. Home color Pavilion Beige, trim Natural White. No pool.
24438 Nicobar Ln SPEC HOME: 3,334 Sq Ft (2,084 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large front porch, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Charcoal. Home color Passive, trim Natural White. No pool.
24515 Cabana Rd SPEC HOME: 3,485 Sq Ft (2,351 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Surrey Beige. Home color Natural White, trim Natural White. Stone cladding Portland Smoke on front. No pool.
17500 Vellum Ct SPEC HOME: 3,334 Sq Ft (2,084 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, large front porch, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Contec South Florida. Metal roof color Surrey Beige. Home color Contented, trim Natural White. No pool.
17406 Isaac Ln
16265 San Edmundo Rd
17462 Belie Ct
17448 Belie Ct
17440 Belie Ct
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.
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SPEC HOME: 2,859 Sq Ft (2,042 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, flex room, 2 car garage with work area, concrete driveway by Gemm Development. Tile roof color Hillsborough Blend. House color Just About White, trim Sugar Dust, front door and garage door color Whirlwind. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,968 Sq Ft (2,042 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, flex room, 2 car garage with work area, paver driveway by Gemm Development. Tile roof color Hillsborough Blend. House color Marseilles, trim Metal Flake, Hardie siding, architectural foam, and cultured stone veneer. Door and garage color Earthen Cheer.
SPEC HOME: 2,858 Sq Ft, (1,950 AC), 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Central Construction Group. Metal Roof color Charcoal Gray. House Color Steely Gray, Trim Black. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,858 Sq Ft, (1,950 AC), 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Gemm Development. Metal Roof color Sierra Tan. House Color Loggia, Trim White Sand. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 3,045 Sq Ft, (2,093 AC), 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Gemm Development. Metal Roof color Cobalt Stone. House Color Windy Blue, trim White Sand. No pool. 17457 Belie Ct
24473 San Rafael Rd
17572 Vellum Ct
SPEC HOME: 3,045 Sq Ft, (2,093 AC), 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Gemm Development. Metal Roof Color Mocha Tan. House Color White Sand, trim Tricorn Black. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,408 Sq Ft (1,809 AC). 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Synergy Homes. Metal Roof color Light Gray. House Color Rarified Air with Glacier White stone on front, trim High Reflective White, door Distance. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,408 Sq Ft (1,809 AC). 4 bedrooms, 2 bath, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Synergy Homes. Metal Roof color Light Gray. House Color Foggy Day with Shell White Frost stone on front, trim Extra White, door Silverplate. No pool.
24399 Cabana Rd SPEC HOME: 2,408 Sq Ft (1,809 AC). 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, paver driveway by Synergy Homes. Metal Roof color Light Gray. House Color Summit Gray with Tropical Beige stone on front, trim Shell White, door Taupe Tone. No pool.
24041 Peppercorn Rd
SPEC HOME: 3,296 Sq Ft (2,444 AC). Summerville Model. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile roof color Weathered Ash. Home color Chelsea Gray, trim Classic White Buff. No Pool.
17357 Comingo Ln SPEC HOME: 3,296 Sq Ft (2,444 AC). Summerville Model. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile roof color Weathered Ash. Home color Loggia, trim Shoji White. No Pool.
24352 Vincent Ave SPEC HOME: 3,296 Sq Ft (2,444 AC). Summerville Model. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, den, 3 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile roof color Weathered Ash. Home color Twilight Gray, trim City Loft. No Pool.
24360 Vincent Ave SPEC HOME: 2,629 Sq Ft (2,032 AC). Trevi Model. 4 bedrooms, 3 baths 2 car garage, paver driveway by Lennar Homes. Tile roof color Weathered Ash. Home color Uncertain Gray, trim Evening Shadow. No Pool.
OTHER CONSTRUCTION
24340 Nicobar Lane POOL AND POOL HOUSE ADDITION:
Allison James Estates & Homes
deed restrictions. This is true whether the owner is building a home for themselves or if the owner is a development/investment company building spec homes; and there are several such companies owning multiple lots in our Association.
The only way to influence building construction in BSL is through deed restrictions regulating (1) building development standards, and (2) construction rules and guidelines. Use of these restrictions enables your Board to maintain consistency in the general design and size of homes being built yet ensures the external appearance of nearby homes is divergent. They also identify requirements for building contractors during the construction process. Last fall, BSL membership approved an update to our governing documents to try and address some of this. This update contained several changes to our Development Wide Standards and our Construction Rules and Guidelines. For example, Section 5.12 Development Wide Standards now mandates that no more than five structures with identical front elevations or model designs can be built in the community, and front elevations of adjacent structures must have at minimum five style and design differences. Section 5.15 Contractor Construction Rules and Guidelines were updated to include regulations to address drainage issues during and after construction, as well as use of water from adjacent homes and our waterways. Section 5.15 Clean Site Program was updated to include our ability to use the $10,000 Builders Completion Deposit and any other refundable deposits to correct clean site issues if the contractor fails to do so.
Your Board works diligently to ensure contractors adhere to our deed restrictions. The ARC inspects each new structure on an ongoing basis, and Association members routinely report problems as well. This is not an easy or fast correction process. All violations include a visit to the property to take pictures. Then emails and letters must be written identifying the problem and requesting resolution by a certain date. If this does not occur, then further action is necessary. This can include BSL scheduling corrective action and use of refundable deposits or fining. All this takes time and effort.
As of the end of May, there were 120 new homes approved for construction. It normally takes over a year from the point of application submission to receipt of a Certificate of Occupancy. So, it will take at least another year or more before we see any measurable slowdown in construction in our community. In the meantime, please understand your Board is doing all it can to make the growing pains as comfortable and smooth as possible.
On a final note, 37 new homes have received Certificates of Occupancy since October 2023. We anticipate many more before the end of our fiscal year on September 30, 2024. Please bear with us during our growth spurt!
Quote Of The Month
“There’s great value in being able to step back and laugh at yourself, at life, and at attitudes. Laughter helps you put everything in perspective.”
Jim Henson
Caught On Camera
Since Burnt Store Lakes became an Association in 1992, there has been a Board of Directors duly elected by the membership. Over these past years, we understand that it has not been an easy task to find property owners who are willing to serve on the Board. With the passage of time, there have been some recurring Board members serving since historically candidates could not be found to run for the expiring Board positions. The 2024 Annual Meeting slated for Saturday, Oct. 19, will have four seats up for election. If you are interested in volunteering your time and talents, run for the Board or get involved with a committee to assist in maintaining and improving Burnt Store Lakes as we face the challenges of a very desirable and rapidly growing community.
Sandy Funk, President
Paving
I wanted to do a follow-up article and give everyone an update on our upcoming paving project. We recently had a special MSBU paving meeting. The county updated our MSBU funding spreadsheet. After review and explanation from county financial staff at the special meeting, we have $4.6 million rather than the $2.8 that was previously reported. Keep in mind, all that funding is not for paving; there are other operating expenditures that are paid with these funds. And a percentage of funds (approximately $1.2 million) must be held in reserves.
The contract for the paving came in at $5.6 million, and rejuvenation in FY25 will be around $350,000. Three million
It Was A Nice Idea!
Chapter 12: Swan Song (The Final Chapter)
Well, summer is officially here, even though we’ve had summer weather for a while. We know it is summer because the rain comes every day, traffic is much less, and you can get in and out of Publix so fast it’s like the Twilight Zone! For those full-timers down here like me, it really is time to relax. I’m GREAT at that! Give me my pool, the heat, a glass (when I say “glass” I mean “bottle”) of Chardonnay, and I’m all set. I love meeting new people and getting to know them. But a friend down here told me that a new neighbor moved in and came to their house to introduce themselves. The new neighbors actually said, “Hi, we just moved in, and we have enough friends, so we just wanted to let you know that we keep to ourselves. Thanks.” Now though, nothing really bothers me. When Jimmy cracked corn, I didn’t even care! But THAT took the cake! I almost spit out my “glass” of Chardonnay when my friend told me that!
Over the last year, I told you about my entertaining, how I’ve gotten into the healthy lifestyle, and how to have fun in the sun. To me, that is what it’s all about – making the most of what we have. Since moving here, I’ve watched the entire series of the Sopranos (never saw it before), read every Harry Potter book from cover to cover (over 4,000 pages), went to Universal to Harry Potter World after watching every movie, and now I’m watching the
From My Lanai
Sadly, it’s that time of year again. The neighborhood won’t be the same for a while. They go “north,” they say. For some, more north than others.
They say goodbye with mixed emotions and lots of luggage. Some will drive to the airport, and some will drive all the way home. Many load their RVs knowing the road ahead will have challenging miles.
They close up windows, put up hurricane shutters, stop mailbox deliveries and zip up suitcases.
They have last-minute dinners. They seem to want to linger but they won’t. It’s not their time yet. It’s not their turn to stay.
But they will miss us. They will miss our ability to relax, and our ability to roll out our golf carts for a day
of our available balance will be applied toward the paving project, and the $350,000 rejuvenation in FY25 will be paid with reserves. The remaining balance will be borrowed. We have elected to go with a five-year loan vs. a 10-year loan, which will save us approximately $330,000 in interest. The five-year plan will increase our MSBU fee from $297.83 to $345, an increase of $47.17/year. This increase will start in FY26 and go through FY29. At that point, if we have no other large project planned within the next six years, the fee will be reduced to $120/year in FY30. We are not allowed to accumulate large amounts of revenue.
We still do not have a start date for the paving. The way the contract is written, the contractor decides where he starts, and we are not the only area being paved. Even when he gets to our neighborhood, the contractor decides how he will work his way through our community. You will be given 48-hour notice of when they will do your street.
We have been unsuccessful in finding a contractor to deal with the paver driveways. If you have a paver driveway, it will be up to you whether you let them taper down the pavement over your pavers or whether you want to remove a row, and they will pave up to that edge. However, keep in mind that the new pavement will be 1.75 inches higher than the existing level, so you most likely would have to remove several rows of pavers to slope back up to the new elevation.
Dave Evans
old 70’s show Dallas ! Remember that? I know who shot J.R., but I won’t spoil it!
A lot of things aren’t what they are cracked up to be. Traveling can be a nightmare, entertaining is a lot of work, and yeah, alligators are cute, but they keep running away from me! JUST KIDDING … don’t try it! However, one thing that IS what it is cracked up to be – and more – is my retirement and living in BSL. It is a whole different world down here. I’m glad I experienced New Jersey, ONLY because it makes me really appreciate the good life.
I truly wish everyone a great summer, a great year, and a great life down here just like I have and will continue to have. Maybe I’ll run into you at one of the Potlucks in the Park! And have a “glass” of whatever you like. I think I’ll open (I mean pour) another one, too!
It really was a nice idea!
on the greens. Yes, they will miss the golf and the gulf. They will envy us our sunrises and our sunsets at the beach.
We know it’s just a matter of time before they return. When the cold winds blow, they automatically look to the South.
By Matthew Szuchy
Itwasaniceidea@gmail.com
We are the ones who stay. But we miss the friends that cannot. And we drive on streets a little less congested; enjoy restaurants a little less crowded.
Take a deep breath. I say a prayer for Godspeed in their travels and wave goodbye from my lanai.
Ava Ritter
A Perspective from page 1
Staying close to Mom for safety.
Photo by Edie Johnson
Rising above the shores of the Caloosahatchee River is Vista Cay, a collection of sophisticated waterfront residences featuring awe-inspiring vistas. For a limited time, future residents can choose their views and enjoy Shell Point’s resort amenities and award-winning lifecare while building is underway. This rare opportunity to select a new construction residence in Shell Point’s most renowned neighborhood won’t last long. Take a virtual tour, register for a seminar, or request an appointment by visiting MeetVistaCay.org.
Flamingo Population Surges In Florida After Hurricane Idalia
Over the course of one week, more than 100 flamingos were spotted in the wild across the state of Florida, according to a survey conducted by Audubon Florida. Eighteen of them were counted in the Pine Island area.
Wildlife experts said the flamingo population increased in Florida thanks to Hurricane Idalia
“The idea is that a lot of them got caught in the hurricane and kind of rode the hurricane from colonies, kind of, either in the Yucatan peninsula or in Cuba, where the strongholds of American flamingos are,” said Dr. Oscar Johnson, professor of ornithology at Florida Gulf Coast University. “Basically, the hurricane deposited those flamingos on Florida beaches when the hurricane passed through, and many of them seem to have stuck around.”
In February, Audubon Florida organized a survey to census American flamingos. The survey lasted one week.
Audubon Florida said more than 40 people filled out the survey to record 101 wild American flamingos across Florida. The largest group (50-plus) was spotted in Florida Bay.
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.
Eighteen were counted in the Pine Island area, with another 14 at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge.
“We are thrilled that there are flamingos that have remained in Florida after being blown here in 2023 by Hurricane Idalia. I actually suspect that 100 flamingos are the floor of this new population and there could be more that were not counted during the one-week survey. We are
Leaping Lizards
Florida has a significant number of leaping lizards, anoles, geckos and skinks. One can observe most of them in Burnt Store Lakes. They are nonvenomous and are hard to catch, even by the young kids who go after them.
Iguanid Family
Green anole or Carolina anole, 7 inches – Up until the 1940s, these were the only anoles in Florida before the brown anole came here from Cuba.
The green anole can change in color when aroused. They feed on crickets, ants, cockroaches (yea!), worms, grasshoppers and more.
The brown anole is a predator, a bit heavier, very aggressive, and has relegated the green anole to the upper tree canopies. I used to see the green anole all the time, but I have not seen one recently.
continually monitoring for breeding flamingos,” said Jerry Lorenz, Ph.D., state director of research for Audubon Florida.
Audubon Florida said the flamingo population declined during the 19th century due to hunters killing them for their feathers.
Johnson said it’s possible the flamingo population could begin to grow even more in Florida due to flamingo breeding. However, flamingos need private, undisturbed areas to breed.
“There’s no sign of them breeding yet in Florida, but that’s kind of the thing that we’re all keeping our fingers crossed for,” Johnson said. “There are some really ideally suited lagoons that I think would be really cool for them to breed at. The place that I would love for them to breed, just being here in Southwest Florida, some parts of Estero Bay do have some appropriate habitat. We have some flamingos still here in the Pine Island Sound area, and there was a flock just this last week at Ding Darling on Sanibel,” Johnson said.
Carinate curley-tailed lizard, 9 inches – They came to us from the Bahamas. They scamper around on the ground and up trees with a tail curled up over their back like a scorpion and are found in more open areas – and even at or near the beach on occasion.
There are also a few other species that are quite rare to see.
June 28 - August 10
Everyone’s favorite nanny is back! Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she helps teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of an irresistible story, breathtaking dance numbers and unforgettable songs such as Chim Chim Cher-ee, A Spoonful of Sugar and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
Dates may be subject to change.
Brown anole, 8 inches – If you are looking for these anoles, you can see them any place where there are shrubs, small trees and pool screens. Quite often they are sitting in the sun flashing their reddish beard under their heads. Predators to the anoles would be snakes and birds like the herons and egrets. They are found south of the Tampa area.
Green iguana, up to 5 feet in length – They came to us from Central America and the Caribbean. They have been slowly moving northward along with the spiney backed iguana. If you see them while out, it is suggested that you call Florida Wildlife, because they are very invasive and will take over other species. They can run upright on their hind legs. I recently found one at Lowes in their garden section.
Gecko Family
Mediterranean gecko, 5 inches – They are spotted brown critters with a snub snout and slightly protruding eyes which lack eyelids. They are mainly seen after dark on walls especially near lights, because lights mean bugs – their main food source. They are also found south of the Tampa area. There is also the reef gecko, which is only 2 inches long and dark brown.
Skink Family
Broadhead skink, 11 inches – They look like the anoles and lizards but have a shiny skin and are quite a bit larger. They are brown, have a larger pointed head, and can be found in wooded areas, rubble piles and in garages. They are carnivorous, eating insects, worms, lizards, frogs and birds’ eggs, and change their diet as the seasons change. Five-lined skink, 7 inches – They have five yellowish thin lines head to tail. Their habitat and food are similar to the broadhead skink. This critter can sicken cats and dogs if eaten. Luckily, they seem to be found only in the woods or grasslands.
Other Notable Lizard
Eastern grass lizard, up to 3 feet – They look like a snake and, unlike other lizards, have a shiny skin and no legs. Color is a spotted, brownish dull yellow, and they like grasslands near woodlands and water. Their movement is just like that of a snake. It is nonvenomous.
What’s not to like about these critters? They hide most of the time and eat the stuff we don’t like, e.g., insects! Unfortunately, they don’t eat love bugs, but then nothing eats those. Bill Kimber, Florida Master Naturalist
Hurricane Preparedness: What To Know To Stay Safe This Active Season
1. Write Things Down
Grab a pen and paper and write down your important contacts, including names and numbers of family members, doctors, and veterinarians. You can use this contact list as a backup to your cell phone and computer.
It’s also a good idea to make copies of important documents like medical records, birth certificates and passports. Put these papers in a safe location so you know where they are and aren’t searching at the last minute if you need to evacuate.
2. Evacuation Plan
You need to start working on this now. Those who were here for Irma or Charley understand the importance of an evacuation plan. Double check to make sure it is updated. Familiarize yourself with your evacuation route and watch a local television news station to know when it is time to go. There could be voluntary and/or mandatory evacuations this hurricane season.
To find the evacuation zone in which your home is located, go to https://floridadisaster.maps.arcgis.com and click on “Know Your Zone.”
If a mandatory evacuation is ordered, leave your home quickly. If you leave too late, roads could be closed, or you could get stuck in traffic. Those who leave early will have an easier time finding hotels and gas.
3. Help Your Neighbor
You want to make sure your family is taken care of this hurricane season, but you also want to check in with your neighbors.
If your neighbor is older, they might need help. Ask if you can move heavy items or board up their windows. You can also make sure they are set with transportation if they need to evacuate and don’t have a car.
4. Strengthen Your Home
Protecting your home is a top priority every hurricane season. Here’s what you can do now to strengthen it:
• Use plywood to board up windows. Prices have gone up since the pandemic, so keep an eye out in case costs drop.
• Another option is purchasing windows that are made to withstand hurricane forces.
• Something else that can protect your home is trimming trees. Cut branches that could fall off and damage your roof. Experts recommend getting a head start on these projects so you’re not scrambling at the last minute trying to find supplies.
5. Insurance Checkup
As hurricane season approaches, now is the time to make sure everything is set when it comes to insuring your belongings.
• Meet with your insurance agent to make sure your policy is up-to-date and covering the correct amount for your property and belongings.
• Go room to room taking photos of your possessions. This will make it easier to file a claim if a storm damages or destroys these items. It will also help you get a better monetary approximation for how much you’ve lost after a storm.
• Now is the time to make these changes. Most companies require a few weeks for policy changes to take effect. Do not wait until the week before a storm to update a policy or to sign up for flood insurance. It will be too late. Ask your carrier what the deadline is for you to make changes before a storm.
• Secure insurance documents and policy information along with other important documents to protect from them water. Use either a water-tight safe, a plastic container, or a sealable plastic folder/envelope.
• Remember that flood insurance is not included in homeowners’ insurance. Check with your insurance agent for details.
6. Disaster Supply Kit
Hurricane kits are important and now is the time to make sure you have what you need. Your kit should include three days’ worth of food and water for each person in your family; make sure any medicine and prescriptions are taken care of ahead of time. Also, take out cash and stash it in your kit because ATMs can go out of service during or after significant storms. You should also keep your gas tank full.
7. Determine Your Risk
Before hurricane season begins, you want to determine your risk. Coastal areas will see storm surge, erosion and flooding. Don’t forget that it doesn’t have to be a hurricane to seriously impact you.
8. Power Outages
Power outages are something to expect this hurricane season. If you’re evacuating, unplug any electronics that you’re not taking with you, including TVs, computers and treadmills.
Another thing you can do is make giant ice cubes to keep things cool if your refrigerator stops working.
When power crews are working hard to restore power, be patient. They’re working as fast as they can. Check FPL for outage maps.
9. After The Storm
It’s important to prepare for after the storm, particularly if this is your first hurricane season.
If you are required to evacuate, think about what your home might look like when you return.
Here’s some tips to keep in mind as you navigate around things:
• Do not wade in flood water.
• Document property damage.
• Save phone calls for emergencies only.
10. Stay Informed
Make sure you have news and weather apps downloaded to your phone.
Millions Of Dollars In Tax Relief For Floridians!
Florida residents are set to receive millions of dollars in tax relief following the signing of a new bill aimed at easing the financial burden on homeowners and families.
Florida typically imposes a 1.75 percent tax on most insurance policies. However, bill HB7073, which was signed into law on May 7, introduces a one-year tax exemption on residential property and flood insurance premiums. The exemption is expected to save Florida homeowners approximately $502 million.
This relief is in addition to the $200 million signed last month by the My Safe Florida Home program. The total investment in tax relief initiatives since 2022 now exceeds $600 million.
The bill’s passing comes at a time when Florida residents have been pressing lawmakers to address the state’s ongoing insurance crisis, with policy rates consistently rising.
In addition to the insurance breaks, the legislation will continue to provide tax relief on school and hurricane supplies,
benefiting families gearing up for the new school year.
These holidays include: Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday on Aug. 24 to Sept. 6 . Families can prepare for hurricane season with items like tarps, batteries and flashlights.
Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday on July 29 to Aug. 11 . Families can save on pens, pencils, computers, clothing and other school supplies.
Tool Time Sales Tax Holiday on Sept. 1 to 7. Floridians can save on power tools, hand tools, toolboxes and other items.
Freedom Month Sales Tax Holiday on July 1 to 31. Florida families can purchase summer items like pool floats, fishing supplies and outdoor equipment – in addition to admissions to museums and state parks.
July Events
Fishermen’s Village
Independence Day Celebration
Date: Thursday, July 4
Time: 12 to 9 p.m.
Website: www.fishersmensvillage.com
Event Description:
The festivities begin with live music at noon and continue throughout the day. We salute our nation with a beautiful fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m.! King Fisher Fleet will be offering a fun Sunset/Fireworks Cruise , departing from Fishermen’s Village at 7:30 p.m.! Visit www.kingfisherfleet.com for pricing/tickets. Fishermen’s Village features a mall with more than 30 independently owned shops/boutiques, five restaurants,
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
water recreation, full-service marina, and vacation suites located on the second level.
Location:
Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: kburman@fishermensvillage.com
Fees/Admission:
Free parking – Free admission
Artisans Market
Dates: Sunday, July 7, 14, 21, 28
Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Event Description:
Shop local and resident artists (Peace River Woodturners, PG Fiber Arts Group, Florida Potters Guiild). Also present will be market vendors of eggs, locally hived honey, goat cheese, produce, locally roasted coffee, plants, jewelry, Peruvian goods and much more. After or before shopping take a walk in the gardens and tour the Artisian Village.
Location:
Punta Gorda History Park, 501 Shreve Street, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: 118pghs@gamail.com
Fees/Admission: Free
Sunset Sing-Along Karaoke Cruise
Dates: Monday, July 15 – Saturday, July 20 – Tuesday, July 30
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Website: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/ puntagordaadventures/items/502154/availability/1307939216/ book/?full-items=yes&flow=876637
Event Description: If you think you could be on Punta Gorda’s Got Talent or have absolutely zero musical talent at all, this cruise is for you. This BYOB Sunset Dolphin Cruise can hold up to 30 contestants, all battling it out for the “Golden Lei,” the ultimate bragging right that certifies you as the “best show.” You’ll be able to choose from all your favorite songs – thousands of classic hits from the past 100 years! We have a cooler and mini fridge to keep your drinks cold all cruise long. There are also soft drinks and snacks available for purchase at the elevated bar. We have all the ice, cups, chasers and mixers for your alcohol. Just bring your best singing voice! Fact: Everyone sounds better after a few drinks. However, you don’t have to sing karaoke; you can enjoy this sunset dolphin cruise and watch everyone else comfortably from our plush lounge seating. We have a fully electric flushing toilet on board, so don’t worry about a stinky outhouse. When the sun sets, the LED lights come on, and the crowd cheers for encores.
Location: Laishley Park Municipal Marina, 120 Laishley Court, Punta Gorda
Contact Information: (941) 646 8454
Fees/Admission: $59 per adult – $35 per child
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. 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.
Backflow valves • Comfort height toilets & grab bars • Shower faucets
• Sinks, faucets & under sink infiltration • Garbage Disposals • Pool heat pumps
Water heaters
Mary Ellen Kiss