Heron Herald
DECEMBER 2025
A Look Inside
HOW GLOBAL TRADE IS OPENING
NEW DOORS FOR CHARLOTTE COUNTY HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENT AT THE MILITARY HERITAGE MUSEUM
ANNUAL MEETING FOLLOW-UP
Justein
BSLPOA Architectural Review Update – October 2025
BETTY INGERSON, CHAIRMAN, ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
Six Single-Family Home Applications were reviewed by ARC in October. Three were recommended for approval. One was held for additional information and two were rejected. Eleven other applications were reviewed. Seven were recommended for approval, two were rejected, and two were held for additional information.
Effective October 30, 2025, there were 52 new homes in the approved construction process. Additionally, there is one home that is authorized by Charlotte County but
not yet approved by BSL. Construction has been stopped, and the ARC is waiting for an application for this home. Eighteen of the approved homes are experiencing delayed construction or contractor abandonment issues that have resulted in violations of the Association’s Clean Site Program. The violations are being addressed on a case-by-case basis using Clean Site and Builder’s Completion Deposit Funds to pay for site cleanup. Legal counsel has been engaged to assist in two of these instances.
No homes received Certificates of Occupancy during October.
The following architectural projects were either approved or conditionally approved by the Burnt Store Lakes Board of Directors during the October 14, 2025, Board Meeting:
ADDRESS
NEW HOMES
24504 Peppercorn (Corner of Nutmeg)
17310 Tampico
17130 Barcrest
OTHER CONSTRUCTION
17520 Tuxpan
BOARD APPROVED PROJECT
HOME: 2,721 sq ft (2,092 AC). 4 bedrooms, 3 bath, 2 car garage, paver driveway by McLennan Construction Group. Metal roofcolor Black. Home color Melting Glacier, trim Pure White. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,997 sq ft (2,152 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, office, 2 car garage, concrete driveway, and metal roof - color Dove Gray by R. Frizzel Construction. House color Light Blue with Brown trim. No pool.
SPEC HOME: 2,614 sq ft (1,930 AC). 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage, and concrete driveway by FV Florida Building LLC. Tile roofcolor Brown. Home color Casual Khaki, Trim color White. No pool.
FRONT ENTRANCE & SCREEN DOOR REPLACEMENT: Replace front screen door with full screen door (White trim) and original front door (Gray/Bronze) with hurricane resistant door by Owner. Both are French Doors.
16235 Cayman FENCE: 4 ft high black aluminum picket fence on right side of Lanai and home with two gates by All Fence. 40 ft long, 8 ft wide in back, 6.9 ft wide in front to maintain required setbacks.
17355 Cape Horn
17468 Cornflower
24347 Matias
17500 Ainse
FENCE: 4 ft high, 3 rail black aluminum picket fence, 259 ft total length by Royal Fence, Inc. Fence will surround home with 3 ft setback from front of home. Includes two 4 ft x 5 ft gates on each side of home front.
FENCE: 4 ft high black aluminum fence, 50 ft long by 10 ft wide with one gate by Owner.
IRRIGATION WELL: 4 in wide, 200 ft deep irrigation well installation by LaBelle Well Drilling. Located in Southeast rear corner of lot, approximately 8 ft from side setback and 5 ft from rear of pool.
IRRIGATION WELL: 4 in wide, 200 ft deep irrigation well installation by LaBelle Well Drilling. Located in in right rear section of lot, approximately 10 ft from side setback.
24306 Nicobar POOL & LANAI: Pool addition for home under construction by FCF Construction Corp.
Join Your Neighbors!
Located off Rio Togas near Burnt Store Road.
Sunday, December 14 1 to 3 p.m.
Please bring a meat dish, casserole, side dish and/or a dessert to share with 12 to 15 people and bring your own beverage.
Plates, silverware, napkins, and water will be provided.
Come for the food and stay for the fellowship and fun!
We hope to see EVERYONE there!
Annual Meeting Follow-Up
The 2025 Annual Meeting was held on Oct. 18, 2025. The Budget for fiscal year 2025/2026, the Carryover Funds from fiscal year 2024/2025, and the Amendment to the Deed Restrictions were all approved. Three new Board members were elected: Fred Boland, Ronald Paul, and Dana Reed.
The new Board of Directors conducted a Board Meeting on Oct. 23 to elect officers for the next fiscal year (Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2026), assign areas of responsibility, and set the meeting schedule for the 2025/2026 fiscal year.
Motions were made and seconded for the various offices. Voting was conducted, and officers were elected as follows:
President: Fred Boland
Vice President: Rob Hancik
Treasurer: Dana Reed
Secretary: Richard Hefright
Director at Large: Edie Johnson
Director at Large: Jeanie Jordan
Director at Large: Ronald Paul
The following areas of responsibility were assigned:
Architectural Review: Fred Boland
Communication: Edie Johnson
Deed Restrictions: Jeanie Jordan
Drainage and Swales: Ron Paul
Lakes Quality: Rob Hancik
Long-Range Planning: Jeanie Jordan
Mechanical/Maintenance & Beautification: Richard Hefright
The Board of Directors’ Meetings for the year 2025/2026 will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at 3 p.m. in the BSLPOA office conference room and via Zoom. The following schedule is tentative and subject to change: Nov. 11, Dec. 9, Jan. 13, 2026, Feb. 10, March 10, April 14, May 12, June 9, July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 15, and Oct. 13.
Burnt Store Lakes Board Of Directors
Fred Boland, President
Rob Hancik, Vice President
Dana Reed, Treasurer
Richard Hefright, Secretary
Edie Johnson, Director at Large
Jeanie Jordan, Director at Large
Ronald Paul, Director at Large
AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Architectural Review Fred Boland
Communications Edie Johnson
Mechanical and Maintenance Richard Hefright
Long Range Planning Jeanie Jordan
Beautification Richard Hefright
Lakes Quality Rob Hancik
Drainage and Swales Ron Paul
County Liaison Rob Hancik
MSBU’s and Coalition
County Commissioners, etc.
Deed Restrictions Jeanie Jordan
Enforcement
Document Revisions
Board of Directors meeting is Tuesday, December 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
DECEMBER PERSONALITY TRAITS
People born in December are logical, ambitious, and fun to be around. They are feisty but also conservative. They have generous hearts and go out of their way to be nice. Also, they tend to be quite fortunate as luck favors them quite frequently.
v Adventurous
▪ They are active by nature and very restless.
▪ They love to travel.
▪ They take an interest in any kind of sport and adventure.
v Honest
▪ December born people are true to themself and others.
▪ They stand for the truth and never back away from their commitment.
▪ They generally do not choose a path that leads them to a biased or unfaithful route.
v Grounded
▪ They are very practical in nature and try to stay grounded in every circumstance.
▪ They are confident and sure of themselves.
▪ They don’t let unnecessary drama hinder their life.
▪ They don’t get carried away by success.
v Wise And Intellectual
▪ December people are born to be teachers. They love to gain knowledge and share knowledge.
▪ They are always ready to extend their hand to others in need.
v Dedicated
▪ They are dedicated in everything they do, be it work or their relationships.
▪ They are unshakable and determined enough to navigate through any tough situation and achieve their goals.
▪ They are very organized and know how to manage the demands of life.
From My Lanai
As a girl, I often woke up to the sound of roosters crowing in the backyard. But now as a retired adult I live in a “gatored” community. Until you’ve heard the early morning roar of alligators in your own backyard you don’t realize how unsettling a sound can be. Nope, I don’t live in a “gated” community, but I feel safe just the same.
Why, do you ask? Because of my “neighbors”— fearsome, four-legged, toothsome bunch of reptiles. They have seasonal habits and a “don’t mess with
me” attitude. We get along fine. I don’t bother them, and I pray they won’t bother me.
I respect daddy gators, but I respect mama gators even more. I learned my lesson five years ago today. We were moving into our new home in Burnt Store Lakes, and a total of 16 alligators displayed their version of Welcome Wagon. It was a mama and her 15 little ones. Later in the week, I heard my first roar. My mouth went dry. Life is certainly different in Florida.
But I sit and enjoy the sights and sounds while I live in harmony here on my lanai.
New Weekly Farmers Market Has Launched
To the delight of vendors and shoppers alike, an indoor/outdoor weekly market has launched from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Wednesdays in Punta Gorda .
The Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association (PGICA)—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community organization at 2001 Shreve St., Punta Gorda— will provide the market location.
Vendor space is available for fresh foods, arts and crafts, businesses, thrift items, antiques, and more for $35 per space. Discounted rates are available for three, 10, or all 25 market dates through March 25, 2026. Local nonprofit organizations are being offered a discounted rate of $20 for each market date.
“We realized there are only so many hours in a weekend, and way too many events to choose from,” said Teri Ashley, PGICA executive director. “That is especially true during the fall and winter months. This is a wonderful compromise of not stepping on the toes of other events and freeing up a few of those valuable weekend hours. We decided Wednesdays will work just fine.”
The Weekly Wednesday Market will be held on the 3½-acre property of the PGICA near downtown Punta Gorda. The large indoor conference room can
accommodate 30 vendors in 8-foot spaces with a 6-foot table and two chairs provided. The outdoor area includes an asphalt parking lot, sidewalks, covered pavilion, and grassy, shaded areas to provide 10-foot by 10-foot spaces. Space is also available for food trucks and other trailered vendors.
“When we looked at the community calendars, they were jam-packed,” Ashley explained. “Festivals, boat and RV shows, home and garden shows, parades, football games, church bazaars—you name it.
“Then a light bulb turned on. Why compete with weekend events when we can complement them instead?”
For more information about the Weekly Wednesday Market, visit pgica.org or call (941) 637-1655.
BSLPOA Website – BSLPOA.ORG
BETTY INGERSON, WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR
HOW TO KEEP IN CONTACT WITH BSLPOA!
Our website allows us to welcome you and share the ins and outs, the activities, the benefits, and the advantages of living in Burnt Store Lakes. It is the primary communications vehicle for our Association. All members receive BSL email information notices as they are sent, unless they have personally elected to opt out.
QUICK UPDATES
• We have 1,974 members and 1,338 accounts registered on our website as of October 31, 2025.
• The website had over 21,100 visits and over 5,000 individual visitors in the last year. Visitors include both BSL members and nonmembers. Certain sections of the website are accessible only to registered BSL members.
• The 2025 Annual Membership Meeting has been completed and all information has been moved to the Association Meetings section of the website at https://www.bslpoa.org/ p/2025-Annual-Meeting-BOD-Election. A copy of the presentation slides from the meetings can be viewed and downloaded from this location.
• The Pay My Annual Assessment section of the website is now active.
You can pay online via credit/debit card or via ACH directly from your bank. You will need your Assessment Invoice and the Account Number listed on your invoice to initiate the process. The website provides a direct link to Bank OZK where you can complete the process.
• Remember to use the Potluck RSVPs section of the website to sign up for the monthly Potluck Picnics in the community park. Your reservation lets us know you are attending so we can plan accordingly. Come join your neighbors and enjoy conversations and a great picnic as well.
• If you have placed items on the BSL Classified Listing pages, please remember to remove them when the item is sold. Items will be removed after four months.
Remember:
The Burnt Store Lakes website is the best way to make sure you are up to date on what is going on in the community. We strongly encourage all new residents and property owners to go to the BSLPOA Website (www.bslpoa.org) and register for access. Once registered, you can automatically stay informed. Select the types of email communications you wish to receive (notifications, alerts, updates, bulletins, etc.). You will also be listed in the online Residents’ Directory and find helpful information regarding community activities, governing documents, forms, policies, deed restrictions, and other contact information. Note that many areas of the website are only available to registered members, so signing up is important!
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 are controlled by member.
• Email blasts for instant information sharing.
• Weekly bulletin updates listing past notices.
• Classified Listings.
• Calendar with RSVP available for events.
• BSL information – documents, forms, etc., available 24/7/365.
How Global Trade Is Opening New Doors For Charlotte County
When Florida builds international partnerships, the benefits often land right here at home ... and that’s great news for Punta Gorda and Charlotte County.
Earlier this month, Florida Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly and Secretary of Transportation Jared W. Perdue led a state delegation to Milan and Genoa, Italy, opening the new SelectFlorida Milan Office, signing an economic partnership with the Lombardy Region, and strengthening ties through the Italy–Florida Working Group on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Why should Punta Gorda care?
Because every new trade connection creates opportunities for local businesses, especially in logistics, advanced manufacturing, marine technology, and distribution—industries that are growing rapidly right here in our community.
Punta Gorda’s location gives us an edge:
• Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) connects us directly to national and international markets.
• Interstate 75 provides quick access north and south.
• And our proximity to deep-water ports makes us a natural hub for import/export and distribution.
As Italian-based companies explore expansion into Florida, many will look beyond major metros for affordable space, skilled workers, and strong infrastructure.
The new SelectFlorida office will also help connect small and mid-sized businesses with export assistance, trade missions, and buyer introductions, opening the door for Punta Gorda entrepreneurs to grow globally without ever leaving Southwest Florida.
Our region’s workforce programs are keeping pace, too. Charlotte Technical College and Florida SouthWestern State College continue to train students in logistics, digital design, and manufacturing ... ensuring that local talent is ready for tomorrow’s global economy.
When Florida’s leaders strengthen trade abroad, communities like ours feel the impact through more jobs, new investments, and stronger local businesses.
Punta Gorda is positioning itself as Southwest Florida’s next logistics and innovation hub, a place where global opportunity meets small-town charm.
The future of trade is global. And Punta Gorda is ready to deliver.
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.
Thirteen Bizarre Christmas Laws You Never Knew Actually Existed
The “War On Christmas” Is Actually A Thing Christmas celebrates the birth of Christ, which one might think would make it a handsdown joyous occasion. Nope. Christmas has been a source of controversy in the United States since the earliest colonial days. In fact, in 1659, the Puritan government of the Massachusetts Bay Colony went so far as to outlaw Christmas in order to discourage “disorderly” behavior that might be “offensive to God.” Anyone who failed to show up for work or participated in feasting would be fined five shillings. The Christmas ban lasted until 1681, and Massachusetts didn’t make Christmas an official holiday until 1856.
The English Were The First To Ban Christmas
Massachusetts wasn’t the first place to ban Christmas. Back in 1643, England passed an ordinance “encouraging” citizens to treat Christmas as a solemn holiday, rather than a celebratory feast. By the next year, Christmas had been banned altogether. Christmas remained illegal in England until 1660 (one year after Massachusetts banned Christmas).
Paying Off Debts
In sharp contrast to the New England law against recognizing Christmas, Arkansas
passed a law in 1838 making debt that would otherwise be payable on Christmas, payable one day earlier, aka Christmas Eve. In other words, if a debt you owed was to come due on Christmas, you’d have one less day to pay it. Likewise, if a debt owed to you was payable on Christmas, your debtor would be required to pay it one day early, thus depriving you of one days’ worth of interest. Official score in Arkansas: Debtor=0, Creditor=0.
A Grace Period For Paying A Debt
Unlike Arkansas, Louisiana adopted a law in 1837 that made Christmas Day a grace period with regard to bill paying. In other words, if a debtor had a debt come due on Christmas Day, they would have until December 26, also known as Boxing Day, to pay it. Accordingly, debtors would have one more day with their money, interest-free, while creditors would lose a day of interest. Official score in Louisiana: Debtor=1, Creditor=0.
The Christmas Bonus Law “Aguinaldo” refers to an annual Christmas bonus that businesses in Mexico are required by law to pay to their employees, according to Investopedia. Payment must be made by December 20, and companies that fail to do so lay themselves open to significant fines (as much as 315 times the legal daily minimum wage). Costa Rica has a similar law.
The War On Christmas Trees?
In New York City, there is a law prohibiting the display of natural (non-artificial) Christmas trees in retail stores. In Philadelphia, there is
a law prohibiting natural trees in high-rise buildings and any other dwellings that are designed to house more than two families. In both cases, the reason is it’s considered a fire hazard.
Christmas
Tree Tax
Since 2011, a 15¢ tax has been assessed on the sale of every Christmas tree in the United States. The purpose of the tax is to fund a marketing program to improve the image of Christmas trees (similar to “Got Milk?” and “The Incredible Edible Egg” campaigns). Don’t
believe it? Snopes confirms it, although they say it’s not truly accurate to call it a “tax,” and it’s only levied on wholesalers. Nevertheless, it’s likely that wholesalers pass the levy onto retail customers.
Yes, To The Tree; No, To The Cross
In 2016 in Knightstown, Indiana, it became illegal to have a cross on top of a Christmas tree in a public display. “The cross is not a Christmas symbol,” said a representative of the American Civil Liberties Union. “The cross is the pre-eminent symbol of Christianity, and it reminds Christians not of the secular trappings of Christmas but of the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus.”
Don’t Lose That Receipt
In Michigan, if you like having a freshly cut Christmas tree, be prepared to retain the receipt. That’s because it’s illegal there for anyone to transport a Christmas tree without having proof of the sale of the same.
The Ban On Candy Canes
In Nebraska in 2018, an elementary school principal banned candy canes in the school because “historically, the shape [of the candy cane] is a ‘J’ for Jesus. The red is for the blood of Christ, and the white is a symbol of his resurrection.” Also banned: anything suggestive of the religious holiday of Christmas (including reindeer, Elf on the Shelf , and anything red and green).
No Booze In The Eggnog In Arkansas
In Arkansas , the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited on Christmas Day. Period. End of story. That’s not to say one can’t drink alcohol in the privacy of one’s own home on Christmas, but if you want to do so, you’ll have to make sure you’re stocked before Christmas arrives.
Laws Against Being Lax About Taking Down Your Christmas Lights
Many states and municipalities in the United States have laws regulating how long you’re allowed to keep your Christmas lights up after Christmas. In San Diego , you have until February 2. Scofflaws face cash fines of $250. In Maine, fines may be levied any time after January 15.
Laws Against “Light Trespass”
Your Christmas lights can be guilty of “trespass” under “light trespass” laws, which prohibit such things as “misdirected” or “excessive” artificial light caused by “inappropriate” or “misaligned” lights that produce “unnecessary” glowing. New Jersey, in particular, is known for its light trespass laws. You may be better off with a visit to one of the 20 best small towns for Christmas lights.
The Great Outdoors: The Unquiet Spirits Of Southwest Florida
You either believe or you don’t.
There is much controversy about the existence of ghosts and other spirits from another dimension. Most humans will only believe in the spirit world if it has been proven by science or “men of great knowledge.”
But if it happens to you … you believe.
This scientific stuff works two ways. While we can’t prove there are ghosts and beings from another dimension, no one can prove that they don’t exist, either.
So, let’s start here: our area of Southwest Florida, which is abundant in history.
Battles took place here, as did lynchings, killings, and tragic accidents.
In any war, there are heroes and leaders. The masses worship them and will do anything for their beloved leader—even lay down their own lives. But in any war or conflict, there are no winners.
In early Florida history, native people were slaughtered, their way of life destroyed. But the early Calusa weren’t necessarily defeated by swords, muskets, and cannons. They succumbed to diseases brought over from Europe.
The Calusa honored their dead by building mounds of shells, because the groundwater level was so close to the surface. Some were buried in these shell mounds with personal possessions. Treasure hunters dug up these mounds, thinking they’d find gold and treasure, but there was none. The natives had no need for that stuff. A good spear or arrow tip was more valuable to them.
When settlers arrived in Charlotte Harbor, they sought higher ground to build on. There are some places that have good karma and others that have bad karma. Then there are those with really bad karma.
The little island known as Cabbage Key in the Intracoastal Waterway was a Calusa burial mound. It is 38 feet above sea level and has a rich history of good karma. The present-day owners welcome fishermen, boaters, and overnight guests. Have there been paranormal activities there? Yes, but not negative ones.
On the Peace River, the Nav-A-Gator has had its share of unexplained activities: A wine glass jumping off the overhead rack or a window opening or closing on its own. This may be from activities or interactions during the Seminole wars of the 1800s, part of the old Fort Winder settlement being in this area. Many old homesteads in the Arcadia area also have unexplained activities. Many go unreported because others would think they were off their rocker talking about such incidents.
In Punta Gorda, the Sandlin House, built in 1863, is reportedly visited by the spirit of Mary Leah Sandlin. When she was 14 years old, she accidentally spilled gas from an old-fashioned iron on herself and was burned to death. Homeowners have reported incidents of voices and sightings, attesting to the presence of the spirit.
But a home or building doesn’t have to be old to be visited by spirits from beyond. New homes can have a room in which paranormal activities take place.
Downtown Punta Gorda has a rich history of gunslinger law. While it didn’t happen often, there have been documented shootings. Even though some of the old buildings were torn down, the karma—the spirit—may still inhabit the old site. Some businesses seem to thrive; others fail. Some business owners, including those of Two Brothers Homestyle Cooking Bar & Grill, who opened a restaurant on Marion Avenue in downtown Punta Gorda, took no chances. They performed a cleansing to make past bad spirits depart the premises. It worked for a while, but still, it ended in disaster. That building burned in 2015 and was torn down.
The old way of the Native American—the respect for nature and when a handshake was all that was needed to close a deal—is all but gone. Keep in mind that, whether you believe it or not, your actions in this world toward your fellow living beings will be noticed.
So, open your mind. Look around. Explore and enjoy our great outdoors.
But remember the words of Shakespeare’s Hamlet: “There are more things in heaven and earth … than are dreamt of in your philosophy.”
Fair winds; calm seas.
PGD Buzz
As PGD continues to expand, some parking areas have been relocated. The new Ride App Pickup area is now conveniently located between the terminal and the new Rental Car Center.
After exiting the baggage claim doors, turn right and walk toward the Rental Car Center. At the crosswalk, turn right again. Your driver will be parked in the far-right row, closest to the tarmac.
For reference, please see the video and Parking Map below for visual directions. The UBER/LYFT pickup area is highlighted in yellow on the Parking Map.
Visit our Airport Ground Transportation page for additional information.
Holiday Entertainment At The Military Heritage Museum
900 WEST MARION AVE., PUNTA GORDA
A DOLLY PARTON CHRISTMAS FEATURING KAREN HESTER
Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 5, 7 to 9 p.m.
Website: http://www.militaryheritagemuseum.org
Description: What better way to kick off the holiday season than with Karen Hester’s portrayal of Dolly Parton in “A Dolly Jolly Christmas!” Experience Christmas songs as well as the hits that made Dolly a musical icon!
Contact Information: Gregg Hansen at ghansen@militaryheritagemuseum.org Fees/Admission: $52 at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35397
A YOUNG ORIGINAL CHRISTMAS
Date and Time: Tuesday, Dec. 9, 7 to 9 p.m.
Website: http://www. militaryheritagemuseum.org
Description: Come enjoy a spectacular evening of Christmas classics and old favorites with multitalented young musicians! Experience mind-blowing instrumentals and tight vocal harmonies that bring down the house – everything from treasured love songs and nostalgic classics to pop, country, and movie hits. Highlights include a fast-paced tribute to crooners such as Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole, a heartwarming vocal medley from The Sound of Music, O Come, Emmanuel to Feliz Navidad. Packed full of energy and creativity, this is a 100% LIVE Christmas show you won’t want to miss.
Contact Information: Gregg Hansen at ghansen@militaryheritagemuseum.org Fees/Admission: $52 at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35397
EDGE EFFECT: AN A CAPELLA CHRISTMAS
Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 12, 7 to 9 p.m.
Website: http://www. militaryheritagemuseum.org
Description: The Edge Effect is Danny Alan, Troy Dolendo, Sean Gerrity, John Gibson II, and Karl Hudson. Travelling the world, they strive to prove that singers do not need Autotune and computers to put on a great show for all ages. Their music is as diverse as they are; offering a wide array of styles and showcasing influences that span decades.
Contact Information: Gregg Hansen at ghansen@militaryheritagemuseum.org
Fees/Admission: $52 at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35397
A RAT PACK CHRISTMAS
Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 19, 7 to 9 p.m.
Website: http://www. militaryheritagemuseum.org
Description: The Rat Pack Now is Florida’s #1 tribute to Frank, Dean, and Sammy. Their Christmas show is back by popular demand to harken in the season with their perfect blend of music, pizzazz, and comedic banter … just like the old days! However, it never gets … old! The music, the lyrics, the style … it’s all timeless. Thus, the name – The Rat Pack NOW!
Contact Information: Gregg Hansen at ghansen@militaryheritagemuseum.org
Fees/Admission:$52 at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35397
Florida Fun Fact
BRITTON HILL IS THE HIGHEST NATURAL POINT IN FLORIDA
Despite being the flattest state in the U.S. since it’s mostly at sea level, Florida has the lowest highest natural point in America. Scratching your head? You’re not the only one.
See, this is because if you stand on Florida’s highest point, Britton Hill, which is 385 feet above sea level, you’re still lower than other states. The hill is located near the town of Lakewood, near Alabama, in case you were wondering.
Platinum Point Yacht Club We Have Something for You!
PPYC members often joke that we need more days in a month to fit in all that we do Here’s a glimpse of the first two weeks of last April.
April 1 - Want to tas te something good and learn something new? Bourbon Tas ting – included a brief presentation on how bourbons are made the opportunity to taste four different M Maker’s Mark bou rbons.
April 3 - Want a Workout with a view? S Sunset Kayaking - Members set out from P Ponce de Leon Park for a guided evening on the water. After paddling about the mangroves, they headed into C Charlot te Harbor for a spectacular Florida sunset.
April 4-8 – Cruise with friends! 5 5-Days in the Florida Keys - Members cruised to M Marlin Bay Resor t, a laidback, luxury property with quick access to the beaches. Several non-boating PPYC members joined the trip by coming in their RV ’s or staying at nearby rentals.
April 4 – Who doesn’t like happy hour? M Monthly G rill Night - The club fires up the grills and members bring their choice of meat to barbecue and a side dish to share. Dessert is provided by PPYC As always at PPYC, you can choose to B BYOB or buy from the D ockside rs Bar
PPYC Paddlers
April 5 – Than k y ou, Jimmy Buffet t C Cheeseburger in Paradise – The Keys cruisers donned tropical attire and flip flops to enjoy dinner at this funky restaurant The event was hosted by cruise captains, musical entertainment was provided by our own John Sauer.
A April 6 – Our cruises are one nons top par t y! Florida Keys Steak and Lobs ter House - After a day of exploring the Keys or hanging out at the beach , cruisers came together for one last dinner at this famous surf and turf restaurant.
A April 7 – Want something for the guys? M Men’s Stag Night - This year’s C Commodore’s Spous e Celeb ration was a tailgate party honoring Jack Butler and Graham Segger. Sandwiches and beer accompanied the NCAA Men’s Basketball Finals on the big screen
A April 9 – How about something for the girls? Mermaids and Mimosas Fashion Show - Guests were greeted with a signature drink and treated to a light luncheon of salads, breads, and dessert. Beautiful models from our own club modeled fashionable, easy- wearing, Florida attire from A Anthony’s Apparel
A April 11 – Who can pass on sunset with a view and a d rink? H Happy Hour - This week’s event featured live music on our beautiful H Harbor Vi ew Deck. BYOB or buy from Docksiders Bar.
A April 12 – How to say goodby e? H Happy Trails Par t y – We had a Western theme for our roaring sendoff for our Northern friends The party featured dancing to live music with Cap’n Rick and great food from M Mission BBQ
A April 16 – Happy again? M Monthly Sunset Social Potluck & Happy Hour - Members brought their favorite Italian appetizer, dish or dessert to share BYOB or buy from Docksiders Bar
A April 16 – To enjoy the presen t, one needs to honor the pas t . Sund owne r’s Ceremony - This cherished yacht club tradition, is steeped in nautical and military history. The brief ceremony included retirement of the flag followed by desserts and lively conversation inside the club.
Add weekly S Stretch and Balance classes, A Ar t Workshops AND a variety of E Educational Seminars to the multiple games played at least once per week: B Brid ge, Mah Jon gg, Euchre , and B Bunco –It’s easy to see why the PPYC calendar is so full
If any of these on- water and on-land activities appeal to you, contact our Club Administrator on- site Mondays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays or call 941-639-0733.
PPYC – A Place to Belong
Come Get to Know Us!
Volunteers Needed
Burnt Store Lakes needs several volunteers to help plan the 2026 Community Yard Sale and the Potluck Picnics in the community park. Both events are well attended and truly appreciated by BSL residents. Unfortunately, they do not occur without the support of volunteers willing to donate some time and effort to the community. Volunteering has a long-lasting impact on our community. Whether it’s the money we save by the hours volunteers dedicate, the much-needed services provided, or the friendships that bring our community together, our volunteers have a very measurable impact.
Please consider volunteering for one or the other of these activities. Information and prior volunteers
are readily available to assist you with planning and implementation. Please contact the BSLPOA Office if you are interested or would like additional information on either of these two opportunities to serve your community.
THE CAESAR SALAD WAS INVENTED IN MEXICO
You may think the Caesar salad comes from Italy, but it was actually created in Tijuana, Mexico by Italian immigrant and restauranteur Caesar Cardini. On the evening of July 4, 1924, Cardini, the owner of Caesar’s Place, was under pressure to serve an influx of Californians who were looking for a break from Prohibition. On the fly, he whipped up a salad using romaine lettuce and whatever ingredients he had, including garlicflavored oil, eggs, Parmesan cheese, lemons and Worcestershire sauce. Word travelled fast and the Caesar salad became a sensation from coast to coast.
Traveling Library At Burnt Store Lakes
The Traveling Library is coming to Burnt Store Lakes.
We’re excited to announce the Charlotte County Traveling Library has scheduled a monthly visit to the Burnt Store Lakes Property Owners Association’s Community Room at Turtle Crossing Plaza. The library will visit on the first Thursday of each month from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The library is free and open to the public. This outreach service brings the library to you—perfect for anyone who has trouble getting to a branch.
What You Can Do On Site
• Check out books for children and adults
• Return items
• Place holds for pickup
• Get a new library card (bring a photo ID)
• Ask questions and get reading recommendations
2025/26 Visit Dates (Thursdays, 4 To 5:30 p.m.):
• November 6
• December 4
• January 8, 2026 (second Thursday due to the holiday)
• February 5
• March 5
• April 2
Location: Burnt Store Lakes Property Owners
Association Community Room – Turtle Crossing Plaza, 16500 Burnt Store Road, Unit 101
What to bring: A library card (if you have one) and a photo ID for new card applications.
Cost: Free and open to all.
The Traveling Library is open to all.
HOLIDAY LIGHT CANAL TOURS
December Events
Date and Time: Monday, December 1, 5:15 to 9:45 p.m. Cruises depart at 5:15 for sunset and holiday lights and 7:45 for our lights-only nighttime cruise.
Website: https://fareharbor.com/embeds/book/ puntagordaadventures/items/577774/?fullitems=yes&flow=876637
Description: Escape to a holiday paradise onboard “The Oasis” Tiki Boat! Enjoy the holiday spirit with tours for up to 30 guests. “The Oasis” is decorated with LED lights and the most Floridian holiday decorations around. We’ll play festive music, and hot cocoa, fresh apple cider, and eggnog will be available on the boat. Select cruises may have live entertainment, Christmas karaoke, and even caroling! We also have a fully enclosed private restroom on board. Enjoy both the winter sunset and the holiday lights on our first trip of the night at 5:15 p.m. You’ll get approximately 30 to 45 mins. on the harbor to watch a famous Southwest sunset, followed by an hour to enter the canals and
JOYFUL WORLD
Date and Time: Friday, December 5, 7:30 to 9 p.m. EST
Website: https:// symphonicwindscc.com/
Description: The holiday seasons of Hanukkah and Christmas are celebrated as the Symphonic Winds of Charlotte County perform many of the traditional sounds of the season. You also will be treated to a few selections with happy and surprising twists!
view the exquisite lights and holiday decorations. Our second cruise of the night departs at 7:45 p.m., and if you’re all about the Christmas Lights, this one is for you. Explore every canal with us and see decorations on all the most luxurious houses in the Punta Gorda Isles.
Location: 120 Laishley Ct.
Contact Information: (941) 646-8454
Fees/Admission: $59 for adults and $35 for children under 12.
Location: Charlotte County Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Box Office
Voice Mail: 941-218-0022 / Website: symphonicwindscc.com
Fees/Admission: Individual Tickets: Adults $23 on-line; $25 at the door; Students $5
JINGLE & JAM
Date and Time: Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Website: https://peaceriverbotanicalsculpturega.ticketspice. com/jingle-jam-
Description: Get ready to celebrate the season with two magical days of holiday joy at Jingle & Jam—a music festival for the whole family! Join us for a winter wonderland of live music, holiday treats, and cheerful activities that will warm your heart and spark your holiday spirit! Live music –all weekend. Santa “Meet and Greets” – Snap a photo and share your wish list with Santa himself! Special character appearances – Beloved holiday characters will be roaming for magical moments and photo ops. Santa’s Workshop – A kids’ crafting zone with holiday-themed arts, games, and hands-on activities. Holiday gift shop and artisan vendors – Find the perfect gift and explore unique handmade treasures. Food trucks – Delicious eats from local favorites to keep you fueled for fun. Seating is limited—bring your own chairs and blankets for cozy comfort.
Musical Performance Times: Saturday, December 13
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.: David Lapio (Steel Pan Holiday Vibes)
12 to 2 p.m.: Beat Street Band
2 to 4 p.m.: Phenomenal Animal
Location: Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens, 5827 Riverside Drive, Punta Gorda
Fees/Admission: FREE for PRB&SG Members and for Kids, Newborn to age 5
Non-member Adults $20; Students (6-17) $10; Seniors (65+) $17
Ticket includes access to our stunning Origami in the Garden exhibition— where paper art transforms into breathtaking, larger-than-life sculptures!
Sunday, December 14
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.: David Lapio (Steel Pan Holiday Vibes)
12 to 2 p.m.: Marker 5
2 to 4 p.m.: The Kollections
2025 MISTLETOE BALL
Date and Time: Saturday, December 13, 6 to 10 p.m.
Website: https://www. charlotteharborecc.com/ events/2020/private-event210
Description: There will be dinner, dancing, a silent auction, live music, and more to raise funds for critical services for people experiencing homelessness and hunger in the community.
December Events
Location: Charlotte Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St., Punta Gorda
Contact Information: Amberly Leverich at (727) 248-1533 or amberly@charlotte.care
Fees/Admission: Please click on Mistletoe Ball – St. Vincent de Paul CARES
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.
December Holidays
DECEMBER 15-22
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25
