to the July issue of the all new Meadows Connection. Effective with the April 2025 edition, Burnt
website features a redesigned newsletter, individual
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 Meadows, as well as a Vendor Page where you can find local service providers. You can either go directly to the new website to
review/download the new digital version or review a PDF version on our BSM website at Meadows Connection Newsletter | Burnt Store Meadows. We hope you enjoy this newly developed site.
Please feel free to suggest articles or areas of interest you would like to see in future editions of the Meadows Connection.
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BURNT STORE MEADOWS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President – Melissa Lockhart
Vice President – Ed Carnell
Secretary – Anthony Nutt
The
Treasurer – Joyce Tilden
Director at Large – Adele Higgins
The Board of Directors meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the conference room at Star Hospitality Office located at 26530 Mallard Way, Punta Gorda.
The July meeting will be held on July 21.
Residents are welcome to join the meeting in person or via Zoom. The Zoom link is listed on the website for registered members –Zoom Link to Monthly Board Mtg | Burnt Store Meadows
Burnt Store Meadows Property Owners Association Website
JOYCE
TILDEN, BSMPOA DIRECTOR
COMMUNICATIONS AND WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR
Keeping you informed and up to date on what’s happening in The Meadows.
The www.bsmpoa.com website makes it quick and easy to access and electronically complete forms required for new construction, additions, and modifications to your existing residence. Also, requests for overnight parking permits can be completed online.
As a resident and/or property owner in the Burnt Store Meadows Community, you will have access to “Owner Only” documents and information. In order to access those
documents and sections on the website you must register and be authorized as a property owner.
Registration is simple!
The first time you log in to www.bsmpoa.com simply select the Register option in the upper right corner of the screen.
On the Register page you will be asked to enter the following information:
•Are you a Homeowner, Condo Owner, Lot Owner, etc.
•Name, email, cell phone*, address, and create a password for your account.
* If you don’t have a cell phone, or prefer to use another number, you can change this on your Member Profile once your account is approved.
Once you have entered the appropriate information and select Register at the bottom of the page it takes you to the next page. There you are asked to complete your personal Member Settings. This is where you may select your personal preferences on communications, e.g., receiving emails or text messages from the association for items such as the newsletter. Member Settings is where you can update and change your password and specify your privacy.
We hope you enjoy the website. Please feel free to forward comments or suggestions to the Star Management or the webmaster via the Contact Page on the website.
HAPPY BIRTHDAYS
HIGHEST PRICES PAID
BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES
Adele Higgins Has Stepped Up to Fill the Board Vacancy for Rhonda Hall
Adele Higgins has lived in Burnt Store Meadows with her husband, Niles, for five years. They moved here from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, in May of 2020. Prior to her retirement in 2018, Adele was an Administrative Law Judge in the U.S. Department of Labor. From 1979 to 2003, Adele served on active duty in the U.S. Army and retired at the rank of colonel (O6). Currently, Adele is a member of the City of Punta Gorda Code Enforcement Board.
Both Adele and Niles have been certified as handlers by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs since 2022. In that role they take their Bernedoodle, Rosie, to various facilities such as schools, libraries, and nursing homes. Adele and Niles are fans of the Philadelphia sports teams (especially the Phillies).
What’s Happening in Punta Gorda
FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE INDEPENDENCE
WEEKEND CELEBRATION
July 4th, 2025
Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade
From: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Admission to Fishermen’s Village and parking are free.
The annual Independence Day Celebration at Fishermen’s Village is a must!
Family-friendly activities and vendors will be featured on the Village Promenade from 12 noon to 6 p.m. and there will be live music in all the different sections of the Village!
We salute our nation with a beautiful fireworks display beginning at 9 p.m. Best viewing is from the west side of the property.
Don’t miss nonstop entertainment for the entire family at the Fourth Fest at Laishley Park. Featuring Water-Mania - 12 giant waterslides of all types, for all ages, and large Kid’s Fun Zone. Shop from unique vendors and partake of fun festival food, cold beer, and beverages as you enjoy live music throughout the day.
The fireworks will start at 9 p.m., and this year looks to be the most spectacular display in the event’s history! The fireworks will be launched from twin barges located in front of Laishley Park, ensuring splendid views from all angles.
Gates open at noon and general admission is free! Preferred Seating ticket affords access to undertent, waterfront seating, exclusive restrooms, and access to cash bar. VIP Tickets include complimentary beverages and a BBQ dinner.
Note: No outside food or beverage allowed. No backpacks or weapons; no pop-up tents. Leashed and well-behaved pets are welcome!
2025 Hurricane Season
The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season started on June 1 and runs through November 30. NOAA predicts a 30% chance of a near-normal season, a 60% chance of an above-normal season, and a 10% chance of a below-normal season in the Atlantic basin this year: While hurricanes pose the greatest threat to life and property, tropical storms and depression also can be devastating. The primary hazards from tropical cyclones (which include tropical depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes) are storm surge flooding, inland flooding from heavy rains, destructive winds, tornadoes, and high surf and rip currents.
Below is the Charlotte County link to all things hurricane related, you’ll find information on Evacuation, Sheltering, and Terminology. Additional links to the National Hurricane Center, FEMA Emergency Supply Kit, and Hurricane Zones for evacuation purposes are included.
Hurricanes | Charlotte County, FL
History of Independence Day
Independence Day, in the United States, the annual celebration of nationhood held on July 4. It commemorates the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. This document announced the separation of the 13 North American colonies from Great Britain. In 1870 the U.S. Congress made Independence Day an unpaid holiday for federal workers, and in 1938 it became a paid federal holiday. Also called the Fourth of July, the holiday is celebrated across the United States with parades, fireworks shows,
picnics, concerts, and other festivities. Independence Day is also notable for its displays of patriotism, as many Americans commemorate the day by flying the American flag and dressing in the flag’s colors of red, white, and blue.
HOW DID THE INDEPENDENCE DAY HOLIDAY COME TO BE?
Declaration of Independence
The adoption of the Declaration of Independence, signed July 4, 1776, by the Continental Congress, is celebrated as the Fourth of July holiday in the United States. The Continental Congress had voted in favor of independence from Great Britain on July 2 but did not actually complete the process
of revising the Declaration of Independence—originally drafted by Thomas Jefferson in consultation with fellow committee members John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and William Livingston—until two days later. The celebration of the declaration’s completion was initially modeled on that of the British king’s birthday, which had been marked annually by bell ringing, bonfires, solemn processions, and oratory. Such festivals had long played a significant role in the Anglo-American political tradition. Especially in the 17th and 18th centuries, when dynastic and religious controversies racked the British Empire (and much of the rest of Europe), the choice of which anniversaries of historic events were celebrated and which were lamented had clear political meanings. The
Downtown Punta Gorda Farmer’s Market
Your local Farmer’s Market with produce, seafood, meat, ethnic cuisine, arts, crafts, live music, working artists and much more.
Featuring over 70 vendors. Located in beautiful downtown Punta Gorda. Every Saturday, rain or shine (unless it falls on Christmas Day, an active Hurricane Warning day or other unforeseen event).
ritual of toasting the king and other patriot-heroes—or of criticizing them— became an informal kind of political speech. This was formalized in the mid-18th century, when the toasts given at taverns and banquets began to be printed in newspapers.
In the early stages of the revolutionary movement in the colonies, during the 1760s and early ’70s, patriots used such celebrations to proclaim their resistance to the British Parliament’s legislation while lauding King George III as the real defender of British liberties. However, in many American towns the marking of the first days of independence during the summer of 1776 took the form of a mock funeral for the king, whose “death” symbolized the end of monarchy and tyranny and the rebirth of liberty.
The Transformative Benefits of Consistent Massage Therapy
WHY ROUTINE BODYWORK IS MORE THAN A LUXURY—IT’S A LIFESTYLE
In today’s high-stress, always-on world, many of us are seeking effective, sustainable ways to care for our bodies and minds. While the occasional massage may offer momentary relief, consistent massage therapy brings long-lasting, transformative benefits. Here’s how incorporating massage into your regular wellness routine can make a powerful difference:
�� 1. Chronic Pain Relief & Management
Regular massage therapy can ease conditions like back pain, arthritis, sciatica, and fibromyalgia. Techniques such as deep tissue and trigger point massage help reduce inflammation, loosen tight muscles, and improve mobility—offering a natural, non-invasive solution for pain.
�� 2. Improved Circulation & Detoxification
Massage stimulates blood flow and encourages lymphatic drainage, which helps deliver nutrients more efficiently and remove metabolic waste. This not only speeds recovery from injury but also supports your immune and cardiovascular systems.
�� 3. Stress & Anxiety Reduction
Massage significantly reduces cortisol levels (the stress hormone) while increasing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Over time, this leads to a more balanced mood and greater emotional resilience.
쏘♂ 4. Enhanced Flexibility & Range of Motion
By reducing tension and increasing joint fluidity, massage can boost flexibility and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re an athlete or simply want to stay mobile, regular bodywork keeps you limber and strong.
�� 5. Better Sleep Quality
Struggling with sleep? Massage helps shift the body into a parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) state, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. It’s especially helpful for those suffering from insomnia or sleep disturbances related to pain or stress.
�� 6. A Stronger Immune System
Reduced stress levels and improved lymphatic function mean your immune system can do its job more effectively. Consistent massage supports the body’s natural defense mechanisms—especially important during cold and flu season.
�� 7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity
�� 7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity
�� 7. Sharper Focus & Mental Clarity
Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved circulation all contribute to improved cognitive function. Regular massage helps you feel more grounded, focused, and ready to tackle your day with a clear mind.
Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved circulation all contribute to improved cognitive function. Regular massage helps you feel more grounded, focused, and ready to tackle your day with a clear mind.
Better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved circulation all contribute to improved cognitive function. Regular massage helps you feel more grounded, focused, and ready to tackle your day with a clear mind.
�� Make It a Habit, Not a Treat True wellness comes with consistency. Whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly, setting up a regular massage schedule helps your body and mind adapt and improve over time. Thankfully, there are businesses out there like Massage Envy that make your new routine both convenient and affordable! Massage therapy is not just about relaxation—it’s about restoration, resilience, and long-term health. Take the time to care for yourself consistently, and your body will thank you for years to come.
�� Make It a Habit, Not a Treat True wellness comes with consistency. Whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly, setting up a regular massage schedule helps your body and mind adapt and improve over time. Thankfully, there are businesses out there like Massage Envy that make your new routine both convenient and affordable! Massage therapy is not just about relaxation—it’s about restoration, resilience, and long-term health. Take the time to care for yourself consistently, and your body will thank you for years to come.
�� Make It a Habit, Not a Treat True wellness comes with consistency. Whether it’s weekly, biweekly, or monthly, setting up a regular massage schedule helps your body and mind adapt and improve over time. Thankfully, there are businesses out there like Massage Envy that make your new routine both convenient and affordable! Massage therapy is not just about relaxation—it’s about restoration, resilience, and long-term health. Take the time to care for yourself consistently, and your body will thank you for years to come.
To book your next session or learn more about our discounted wellness packages, visit MassageEnvy.com or stop into one of our 6 Southwest Florida Massage Envy Locations.
To book your next session or learn more about our discounted wellness packages, visit MassageEnvy.com or stop into one of our 6 Southwest Florida Massage Envy Locations.
To book your next session or learn more about our discounted wellness packages, visit MassageEnvy.com or stop into one of our 6 Southwest Florida Massage Envy Locations.
This article is a paid advertisement. The content was provided by the sponsor and does not necessarily reflect the views of this community or Seabreeze Communications.
This article is a paid advertisement. The content was provided by the sponsor and does not necessarily reflect the views of this community or Seabreeze Communications.
This article is a paid advertisement. The content was provided by the sponsor and does not necessarily reflect the views of this community or Seabreeze Communications.
Please join us for Burnt Store Meadows
Food Truck Fridays (and sometimes Thursdays!)
Located ~ 400 block of Royal Poinciana
Thursday July 3rd
4:00 to 7:00 pm
A special early holiday treat!!!
~ Chell’s Water Ice ~ Authentic Philadelphia Italian Ice
Friday July 18th and August 8th
5:00 to 8:00 pm
~ The One Food Truck Stop ~ Freshly made All American Burgers and more
Have a suggestion for a Food Truck? Let us know Menu posted on the BSMPOA website www.bsmpoa.com
Sponsored by the BSMPOA Social Committee
To make the Meadows Connection interesting and readable to our residents, we invite you to share your stories, experiences, and perspectives. We welcome articles about books, travel, pets, sports, TV and movies, Tech, and/or content that will get our community talking and sharing. Just avoid topics such as politics and religion in keeping with our policy to avoid controversy.
Please limit your words to between 200 to 600 words and feel free to include a couple of jpeg photos with high resolution. We’ll be happy to give you a byline!
Have fun writing and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connection.
July In Your Southwest Florida Yard and Garden
WHAT TO PLANT
Annuals/Perennials/ Wildflowers: Summer bloomers include vinca, coleus, pentas, gaillardia, blue daze, salvias, and ornamental pepper. See
Palms: Continue planting palms while the rainy season is in full swing. Support large
continued >
palms with braces for 6 to 8 months after planting. Never drive nails directly into a palm trunk. See
▪ CIR1047/EP001: Transplanting Palms in the Landscape: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ publication/EP001
WHAT TO DO
Trees: Hurricane season is upon us, but don’t “hurricane” or “pineapple” prune palms. For all tree and palm pruning, hire an ISA-certified arborist. See
▪ International Society of Arboriculture: International Society of Arboriculture > For the Public (isa-arbor.com)
▪ Ask IFAS: Lawn and Garden Care: Pruning: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn-andgarden-care-pruning
Lawns: Determine the cause of any lawn problems before taking action. If an insect is the culprit, treat only the affected area. Rule out disease or sprinkler malfunction. See
▪ Ask IFAS: Insect Management in Your Florida Lawn: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/ insect_management_in_your_florida_lawn
Fertilizer Bans: Numerous Florida municipalities prohibit applying fertilizer to lawns and/or landscape plants during the summer rainy season (June to September). Does such an ordinance exist in your area? See
Vegetable garden: Use summer heat to solarize the soil for fall vegetable planting. It takes 4 to 6 weeks to kill weeds, disease, and nematodes, so start now. See
Irrigation: Summer rains typically provide ample water for plants. Over-irrigating can lead to root rot, wasting water, and money. Install an inexpensive rain shutoff device that will override an irrigation system when it rains. If one is already installed, check that it is operating properly. See
▪ Ask IFAS: Lawn and Garden Care: Irrigation: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn_and_ garden_care_irrigation
Pests on ornamental plants: Warm months often mean more insect pests. Inspect plants often and intervene early. See
▪ Ask IFAS: Lawn and Garden Care: Pest Management: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/ lawn-garden-pest-management
Tropical fruit trees: Check for damage to fruit or leaves and take action to minimize the effect of insects and/or disease on developing fruit or the overall health of the tree. See
Tell us about your pet(s)! Every month we will feature one family’s pet(s) in an article in Meadows Connection. All you must do is write between 200 to 600 words about your much-loved dog, cat, or other animal and include a couple of high resolution pictures. Some ideas to show off your beloved pet include – how you named him/her;
a description of his/her looks; favorite activities and toys; what makes him/her special to you, or whatever else you’d like to share with readers. This is limited to Burnt Store Meadows owners and residents.
Your submission doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece; we will edit and format it for the monthly newsletter. Have fun writing about your pet and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connections.
32 Years And Counting: United Way Surpasses Annual Fundraising Goal
CAMPAIGN’S MESSAGE OF “UNITED WE’RE STRONGER” STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY
United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades met its $11.3 million annual campaign goal, marking the 32nd consecutive year that supporters have rallied to support United Way and its partner agencies.
United Way President and CEO Jeannine Joy, along with Campaign Cochairs Dr. Scott Nygaard, community volunteer, and Dan O’Berski of Trinity Commercial Group, were able to make the exciting announcement on May 13 at the annual Volunteer Appreciation event. This year’s campaign – United We’re Stronger – raised $11.3 million through pledges from employees of local pacesetter companies, businesses, and generous individuals.
VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS AT THE UNITED WAY VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
“Our annual fundraising goal reflects the increasing needs of our partner agencies, which grow almost every year,” Joy said. “To continue reaching or exceeding this target
annually, especially during tough economic times, is nothing short of phenomenal. We are incredibly fortunate to live in a community where those who have the means to help are ready and willing to lend a hand to those who need our support.”
All money raised through the campaign stays in the local community to support the United Way human service network of partner agencies, which include Harry Chapin Food Bank, Community Cooperative, Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Children’s Advocacy Center, Literacy Council Gulf Coast, Boys & Girls Clubs, FISH of SanCap and dozens of additional organizations that serve a diverse range of needs in the community.
Throughout the campaign the “United We’re Stronger” theme was ever-present
UNITED WAY CEO AND PRESIDENT JEANNINE JOY SPEAKING AT THE VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
with O’Berski and Nygaard portraying the iconic Saturday Night Live characters Hans and Franz. And like Hans and Franz the campaign cochairs “pumped” the community up to help it reach another record.
“It’s always encouraging to see the community reach that number,” said O’Berski. “It’s a big number and it keeps on growing. Our community keeps on growing, so we know that the need keeps on growing. We keep asking and the community steps up and makes it happen.”
Nearly 52 percent of donations during the 2024/25 campaign originated through United Way Pacesetters, which consisted of 154 businesses and organizations that launched internal fundraising campaigns last fall.
This year, United Way recognized 180 individuals as Alexis de Tocqueville Society members, a designation awarded to supporters whose philanthropic gifts make the biggest impact on local nonprofits. Tocqueville Society members contribute a minimum of $10,000 to United Way during the campaign.
About United Way
In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies, helping them to work together focusing on issues
that continue to improve lives.
ACCEPTING AN AWARD AT THE UNITED WAY VOLUNTEER
APPRECIATION BREAKFAST
United Way’s mission as a volunteer-driven organization is dedication to improving the quality of life for all people in our community. United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades was established in 1957 and over $243 million has been raised and distributed since that time. For more information, please call (239) 433-2000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org.
