From the Section 22 HOA Board
ED BUNS, BOARD MEMBER
Let us be thankful for what we have, and work together to make our community better.
With November being the month of Thanksgiving, I wanted to reflect on what I am thankful for. As I sit here looking out at the sunset, I realize how blessed we all are to live in a beautiful area, with a vibrant, friendly community, and extensive opportunities to be active and involved, whether your involvement is physical like walking, biking, playing golf, pickleball or tennis; boating in beautiful Charlotte Harbor and beyond, or just relaxing and enjoying life. We are truly blessed to live in this idyllic locale.
As fall arrives, our seasonal friends return to BSM. This month brings time with loved ones, and anticipation for the December holidays, a chance to appreciate what we have and enjoy special moments.
Throughout my life, I have adhered to the principle that one should speak only when they have something of value to contribute; it is wiser to remain silent, and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt. While saying little would make for a brief article, it is important to honor the trust you have placed in me as your Section 22 HOA Board member, following my election in January of this year, by providing thoughts on what I have learned in the last 9 months.
When I was elected in January, I thought that I had a fairly good idea on what was going on with the operation of Section 22 HOA, like how the board worked, and the many aspects that make the Burnt Store Marina a great place to live and enjoy. Before the election, I attended most of the weekly workshops held every Tuesday, and the regular board meetings each month. I quickly learned that there was way more to learn. I have spent my first seven months getting involved in as much as I can to
have as complete an understanding of what it takes to keep our community all that it can and should be. I would like to take a few moments to discuss many aspects that I have learned in the last many months. It is my hope that through my eyes, you will get a better understanding of your Section 22 HOA.
Frequently, conversations around the marina reference “the board” or “your board.” To clarify, Section 22 HOA is governed by a Board of Directors that each of you have elected to act in your best interests, representing you as residents, and serving as stewards to ensure your investment in our community is managed appropriately. Section 22 HOA encompasses more than just the Board, golf course, fitness center, irrigation systems, and amenities. It is not
solely the gates or infrastructure. Section 22 HOA exists to provide all these services, and additionally supports your social network and daily activities, ensuring fiscal responsibility and efficient management so that your life here remains enjoyable.
In the last nine months, we have seen many valuable improvements for our owners. Some of the most important are, new irrigation wells, better access for maintenance of the wells, repaved roads, and upgrades to our golf course. Linkside stands out with great food, service, and a welcoming staff. If you haven’t visited yet, I recommend it. While other than the golf course and Linkside, some of these are
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not easily seen, but they ensure the continued attention to detail to keep our community on the cutting edge of communities in SW Florida.
For all the good I have seen and now been a part of, one of the concerns I have is that our community is run by a very small, but extremely dedicated group of volunteers. Social researchers note declining involvement in clubs and community events, often due to apathy or reliance on others. BSM is no different. There are two schools of thought on this. One is that things are going well, I don’t need to get involved. The other is apathy. While I don’t believe that apathy is the reason we have a very small group, I do think that we would all benefit from higher levels of involvement from owners. If for no other reason, that a diversity of opinions.
Your board serves two-year terms with four elected in odd years, and three elected in the even years. In January of 2026 there will be three seats on the board up for election. Current President McFeely has announced at recent board meetings that he will not be seeking re-election, so at least one of the three open seats will be open. I encourage anyone with interest in learning more about the workings of our community, to attend the weekly Tuesday workshops and the monthly meetings on the fourth Tuesday of the month to learn more about our community. Doing so, may do to you what it did to me a little over a year ago, which made me want to get more involved in our Burnt Store Marina community.
If you’re looking to get more involved, but don’t want to join the board, consider joining one of
our committees. Our members are essential, and groups like Infrastructure, Irrigation, and Vision depend on volunteers. Even our dog park exists because a dedicated team led fundraising and promotion. These successes show the power of volunteer leadership. If you have some time, join in, meet others, and see how you can make a difference.
Previous board articles usually addressed a single topic, but as the newest board member, I thought it would be valuable to offer some of what I have learned over the last many months. I encourage everyone to get involved in our community. Together we can build BSM into something even stronger. With November here and the holidays approaching, let’s appreciate what we have. I look forward to meeting more of you throughout 2026.
Section 22 HOA Board Meeting
Tuesday, November 24 at 9 a.m.
Location: Linkside Patio
Section 22 HOA Board Workshops
Every Tuesday at 9 a.m.
Location: Linkside Patio
Annual Section 22 HOA Board Meeting
Tuesday, January 27, 10 a.m.
Location: Burnt Store Presbyterian Church REMINDER
2 0 2 5 F l o r i d a I n t e r n a t i o n a l A i r s h o w
N o v e m b e r 1 & 2
P u n t a G o r d a A i r p o r t
SNOWY EGRET BY RICK READ
Mark Your Calendar – Out and About
INSIDE THE GATES DATES
Saturday, November 1: Deadline for the December Beacon. Article and picture submissions are welcomed. Become part of the Beacon family.
Saturday, November 1: Community-wide garage sale. 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Tuesday, November 24: Section 22 HOA Board Meeting, Linkside patio, 9 a.m.
OUTSIDE THE GATES DATES
Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2: Florida International Air Show. Dynamic performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the F-16 Viper Demo Team, among other acts. For information go to: floridaairshow.com.
Friday, November 7: Fort Myers River District Art Walk, 1 to 5 p.m. Visit many galleries, exhibitions and performances.
November 7: Lest We Forget, Concert to honor military veterans and history, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Charlotte County Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda. Adults $23 online, $25 at the door. For information go to https:// symphonicwindscc.com.
Every Tuesday: Section 22 HOA Working Board Meeting, Linkside Café Patio, 9 a.m.
Every Wednesday: Bar code installation, front gate, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Every Friday: Farmers Market, PPYC parking lot, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday, November 8: 2nd Saturday Dance Party, 2 to 5 p.m. Lessons start at 2 p.m., party starts at 2:45 p.m. Punta Gorda Women’s Club, 118 Sullivan St. $15 USA Dance Members, $26 USA Dance Member Couples, $17 non-members single, $20 non-members couples. Call Laura for information, 330-501-2366.
Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9. Punta Gorda Art & Craft Market, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gilcrest Park, 400 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda.
Friday, November 21: Fort Myers River District Music Walk, 5 to 9 p.m. Local and regional musicians line the street with music from jazz to blues to rock and roll.
Saturday, November 15 through December 31: Fishermen’s Village Festival of Lights. Come see the start of the season light show with over 1 million Christmas lights and decorations. 1200 Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda.
Saturday, November 22 and Sunday, November 23: Indoor Christmas Countdown Arts & Craft Show, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Charlotte Harbor Event Center, 75 Taylor Street, Punta Gorda.
Saturday, November 29 and Sunday, November 30: Sullivan Street Craft Fair, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Downtown Punta Gorda.
Every Tuesday and Friday: Zumba, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association, 2001 Shreve St. Call Cara Peralta for information, 941-276-1887. $12 per class.
First and Third Fridays: Tranquility Lakes Summer Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 4316 Boathouse Lane, Cape Coral.
Every Wednesday: Long Lunch Sightseeing & Culinary Tours, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Over the course of 3 hours, you will taste local food specialties, and explore historic downtown Punta Gorda, $49 pp. Go to: https://swfloridawalkingtours.com/ tours-2/long-lunch-tour/.
Every Saturday: Haunts & History Tour. 6 to 7:30 p.m. Stroll through historic district and learn historic facts and folklore. Go to: https://swfloridawalkingtours.com/tours-2/hauntsof-history-tour/.
• Saturday, September 13 through Sunday, April 19, 2026: Origami in the Garden, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Garden, 5827 Riverside Dr, Punta Gorda. See outdoor sculptures that transform the ancient art of paper folding into awe-inspiring metal sculptures.
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Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Tom English
Margo Williams
Laura Berrio
Bret McCormick
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Justein Matthias
Anissa Stender
Webmaster
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
Every Wednesday: Punta Gorda Isles Civic Association Indoor/Outdoor Market, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 2001 Shreve St. Punta Gorda.
Every Thursday: Fort Myers River District Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Every Saturday: Punta Gorda Farmers Market, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., downtown. Lots of vendors with fresh fruits and vegetables, live music, crafts and other great buys. Visit nearby murals and enjoy some of the great downtown restaurants.
Every Saturday: Cape Coral Farmers Market, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Clubhouse Square, SE 47th Ter. and SE 10th Pl., Cape Coral.
Every Sunday: Punta Gorda Historical Society’s Farmers Market, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at History Park, 501 Shreve Street. Shop for veggies, meats, plants and gifts. Most Sundays you will be treated to live music by Dave Heveron. When the market closes at 1 p.m., take a guided tour of the gardens at the park. Walk the grounds with Florida native gardener, Starr Zachritz, and learn about Florida’s flora. A $5 suggested donation gets you a plant to take home. Call 941-380-6814.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President: Mike McFeeley
443-858-8354
mmcfeeley13@gmail.com
Vice President: Jerry Newmin 941-637-9883
jnewmin@aol.com
Treasurer: Greg Beaton 704-604-9594
cashxprt@gmail.com
Secretary: Mark Murphy 631-804-2365
murphfsaccts@gmail.com
Directors:
Ed Buns 513-615-2956 ewbuns395@gmail.com
Lynda Vail 973-800-6111 lyndamac55@aol.com
Mike Sage 513-378-3326
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Alliant Property
Management: John Strohm 239-454-1101
Mike Sanchez apmsupport@ alliantproperty.com
Front Gate: 941-639-8226
24 hours a day burntstoregate@msn.com
RESOURCE HUB
SECTION 22
HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Lee County Sheriff Liaison: Sam Flores 239-955-2479 sflores@sherifflee.org
STANDING ADVISORY GROUPS
Architectural Review: Barry Groesch, Chair blgroesch@gmail.com
John Farnham
Jim Schinneller
Daryl Ann Lemon
Mitch Wegrzyn
BSMCC:
General Manager: John Abbott
JAbbott@bsgac.org
Administrative Office: Lisa Rouse 941-639-4151
Manager of Golf Operations: Bill Connelly 941-637-1577 proshop@bsgac.org
Golf Committee: Bob Paul, Chair
Activities Committee:
Lynda Vail, Chair and Board Liaison
BSM ENTRY MANAGEMENT
Mark Murphy, Board Liaison
Communications: Maggie Hart, Chair downhartbsm@gmail.com
Resident Directory: For changes, please contact: Peg Love, peglove810@gmail.com
Daryl Ann Lemon darlemon@comcast.net
THE BEACON MAGAZINE EDITORIAL TEAM
Linda Weiss, Chair 941-661-6409
Lindaweiss91@comcast.net
Maggie Hart 941-769-3039 downhartbsm@gmail.com
Jennifer LeClair 229-349-0180 muckalee250@gmail.com Debi Bretz 239-339-7961 debrabretz@gmail.com
WEB PAGE Joan Ross, Webmaster (bsm22.org)
COMMUNITY PARTNER, PPYC, SAFE HARBOR, BURNT STORE COALITION Jerry Newmin, Board Liaison
FITNESS CENTER
Steve Hocker, Chair hocker12@outlook.com
Anne McColgan
Kelly Beaty
Jim Zachacz
Arnie Boughner
Glenna Benson
Leigh Anne Hall
Mike Sage, Board Liaison
Jen Tait, Manager jen.bsm22@gmail.com
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Lynda Vail, Board Liaison
INFRASTRUCTURE
Mike Lemon, Chair MLemonswfla@comcast.net
IRRIGATION
Rocky Mansfield, Chair 216-956-2581
Joe Baker
Mike Lemon
Gayle Shaffer
IT/CONTRACTS
LANDSCAPE
Michael Lemon, ChairMLemonswfla@comcast.net Daryl Ann Lemon
Mark Murphy, Board Liaison Gate Keeper: 941-639-0334
USEFUL INFO
Main Gate email: securityBSM@gmail.com
Websites: bsm22.orgSection 22 HOA - BSM Fitness, Racquet & Pool Club
burntstoreanglers.comBurnt Store Anglers bsgac.orgBurnt Store Golf & Activity Club burntstoremarina.comSafe Harbor Burnt Store ppycbsm.orgPlatinum Point Yacht Club
Platinum Point Yacht Club Administrator: Dorothy Schroeder Email –office@ppycbsm.org
Alliant Association Management: (Section 22 HOA) Email –info@alliantproperty.com (Resource Hub continued on page 12)
RESOURCE HUB
HOA /CONDO ASSOCIATIONS AND THEIR PROPERTY MGMT COMPANIES
PGI SECTION 22
HOA
Sub Association
Admiral Pointe I
Admiral Pointe II / Sailfish Pass
Admiralty Villages
Capstan Club
Commodore Club
Courtside Landings
Courtyard Landings I
Courtyard Landings II
Courtyard Landings III
Diamond Park
Dolphin Cove
Egret Pointe
Emerald Isle
Estates at Cobia Cay
The Esplanade
Golf Fox (2090 Big Pass)
Grand Isle I &II
Grand Isle III & IV
Halyard Club
Harbor Towers
Hibiscus Cove
Keel Club
King Tarpon
Linkside 1
Little Pines Estates
Marina Towers
Mariners Pass
Marlin Run I
Marlin Run II
Marlin Run III
ALLIANT ASSOCIATION
MANAGEMENT
Management Company
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Cambridge Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Gateway Mgmt
Compass Rose
GPM Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Compass Rose
TBD
Associa Gulf Coast Mgmt
First Service Mgmt
1st Choice Condo Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
TBD
Compass Rose
Gateway Mgmt
Gateway Mgmt
TBD
Associa Gulf Coast Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Gateway Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
1st Choice Condo Mgmt
MGMT. CO. CONTACT NUMBERS
1st Choice Condo Management 239-470-7368
Alliant Association Management 239-454-1101
Associa Gulf Coast Management 941-258-6209
Cambridge Property Management 239-249-7000
Compass Rose Management 239-309-0622
Gateway Management 941-629-8190
GPM Management 239-542-7712
Professional Realty Consultants 239-772-1010
Star Hospitality Management 239-209-0368
Sub Association (cont'd.)
Marina North Shore
Pelican Way
Prosperity Point Master
Redfish Cove
Rudder Club
South Shore
Spinnaker Club
Sunset Key I
Sunset Key II
Tarpon Pass II
The Resort at BSM
The Soundings
Topaz Cove
Villas at Cobia Cay
Vista Del Sol
Yellowfin Bay
Yellowfin Cove
Management Company (cont'd.)
Gateway Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
Compass Rose
Compass Rose
Gateway Mgmt
1st Choice Condo Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
Gateway Mgmt
Compass Rose
Individual Homes
Alliant Association Mgmt
Star Hospitality Mgmt
Alliant Association Mgmt
Compass Rose
Professional Realty Consultants
Burnt Store Marina CC News
JOHN ABBOTT, GENERAL MANAGER, BSMCC
November is here, and we all know what that means…season has begun!
We are kicking off our Thursday food truck night with the “Joe Yeoman Band” on November 6, out at the tiki area. There will be multiple food trucks with a wide variety of cuisine, and plenty of adult beverages, so make sure, if you are in town, don’t to miss this! The Thursday line up continues on the 13th, with the “Stolen Fruit Trio” and on the 20th, we ramp it up a notch with “Deb & The Dynamics.” Other great events in the restaurant this month
include prime rib night, bar bingo, trivia and our 2 for $40 Saturday night specials.
On the golf course we have multiple events in November, starting with the Halloween Scramble on November 1. We follow that up with our annual “Wish for Heroes Scramble” on the 16th. This is a great charity event which benefits veterans in need, so if you haven’t signed up for this scramble yet, contact the golf shop or admin to see if room is still available. Finally, on November 29, we will have our Leftover Turkey Scramble that is always a big hit.
Thanksgiving is a holiday that we all look forward to, and this year we are opening up Linkside to enjoy food and football with friends. From 11 a.m. to
5 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Chef Penny will put on a turkey feast with all the trimmings so, members if you don’t have any plans, get your reservations now. If you’re not a member, you can make reservations 3 days in advance, if there is any availability.
As you can see, there is a lot going on at the club. Members always get priority reservations to all limited seating events, golf events and dinners. If you haven’t yet signed up
to be a member, now is the time to head over to our administration office and get signed up. One big change this year is that we NO LONGER ACCEPT CASH in the restaurant or the golf pro shop, so make sure to bring a card or put money on your gold card account at the administration office. Thank you again for your on-going support, and we look forward to seeing you all at the club!
Check out the next page for our Events Calendar!
Linkside November
*Members Reserve 1 week prior to event
941-637-6405
can reserve 3 days prior to event.
r 2025 BSMCC
Scramble 9 a.m. 2 for $40 Dinner Music 5-8 p.m.
Rob Norum
Scramble 9 a.m. Linkside closed for private event at 3 p.m.
Tribute Tree Program
We have currently received donations for our Tribute Tree Program here at BSMCC. Our first leaves have been added to the Tribute Tree in the lobby at BSMCC. Thank you to those who have donated to this program and blessings to those who they have paid Tribute to. If you are interested in donating a tree and having a leaf placed on the Tribute Tree, please stop in at the Administration office at the Burnt Store Marina Country Club and they would be more than happy to assist you.
Thank You, Lynda Vail
PGI Section 22 HOA Board Director BSMCC Board Liaison
TREE – DWARF ROEBELENII, HERON 9
TRIBUTE TREE – TRIPLE CHRISTMAS PALM, HERON 1
TREE – TRIPLE CHRISTMAS PALM ON HERON 1
TRIBUTE TREE –CHRISTMAS PALM, HERON 1
TRIBUTE TREE –CHRISTMAS PALM, HERON 1
TRIBUTE
TRIBUTE
Fighting Hunger, Feeding Hope Acceptable Items for Donation
Drinks & Others
Water, Juice, Sparkling water Sports Drinks, Cooking Oils
Canned Goods
Vegetables, Fruit, Meats, Soups
Dry Goods
Pasta, Rice, Beans, Peanut Butter, Jelly, Cereal, Boxed Macaroni, Pasta Sauce
Personal Care & Household Goods
Paper towels, Paper plates, Baby Diapers and wipes, Adult incontinence products, Period Products, Deodorant, Hairbrushes, Toothpaste/Brushes, Body Wash, Shampoo/Conditioner Razors, OTC medicines
Snacks for Kids
Pudding, Cereal and Granola Bars, Pop Tarts, Fruit Cups, Shelf-stable milk boxes, Applesauce, Animal Crackers, Dried Fruit
Please drop off your donations at Burnt Store Marina Country Club. There is a barrel in the lobby. This Food Drive for Harry Chapin will run from October 7th until November 17th. We thank you for supporting their mission to distribute food to families experiencing hunger in our area. Harry Chapin serves Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee Counties. Thank You!
Questions? Contact Lynda Vail: lyndamac55@aol.com, 973-800-6111
Golf Tips
BILL CONNELLY, MANAGER OF GOLF OPERATIONS
Season is back upon us, the weather is starting to cool off, and more and more of our northern friends are starting to arrive back down here.
Now is a good time to discuss how to properly practice and warm up for a round of golf. When you go to the range for a practice session, the best thing to do is practice with a purpose. The first thing to do is have a target to focus on. Pick one or two things to work on, and
concentrate only on those things during your session.
When warming up for a round of golf, focus on swinging the club to loosen up, and do not get too technical with your swing before the round.
Be sure to sign up for the “Halloween Scramble” on Saturday, November 1. The “Wish for Our Heros Scramble” on Sunday November 16, and last, but not least is our “Leftover Turkey Scramble” on Saturday, November 29. Also, remember the weekly 9-hole scramble every Tuesday at 3 p.m.
And as always, have fun learning to enjoy your game.
Welcome back and we look forward to seeing everyone this season!
Follow us on Instagram @ burntstoregolf for course updates. Please stop in for lunch and some shopping, we would love to say hello.
Have fun learning to enjoy your game.
Annual St. Jude 5K Walk
in Burnt Store Marina
DEBBIE BURNS, MARINERS PASS
Since 2017, I have sponsored fundraisers for St. Jude in honor of my nephew Lil’ Eddie. He was diagnosed with Leukemia at the age of 4. It was a tremendous ordeal for the family, but, thanks to St Jude Children’s Hospital, Lil’ Eddie is a survivor! He will be 14 years old on November 8th…and is Cancer FREE!
I started hosting this walk in Burnt Store Marina in 2020. This year’s Annual St. Jude’s
5K walk in Burnt Store Marina will be held on Saturday, November 22, at 9:30 a.m. The Start and Finish will be at 3929 Cape Cole Blvd. You don’t have to walk – you can ride along in your golf cart! Also, a trail cart will carry water and pick up anyone who would prefer to finish with a ride. Refreshments served before and after.
Last year I partnered with Maureen Beaton to raise $6,240, participating in the annual St. Jude’s 5K in Memphis. It was truly an amazing experience. Luckily, we will be going to do it again this year! Please help us reach our goal of $4,000.
Here are the ways to donate to this fundraiser:
1. Write a check out to St Jude Children’s Hospital and mail to: Debbie Burns, 3929 Cape Cole Blvd., Punta, Gorda, FL 33955
2. Donate on my site: http:// fundraising.stjude.org/goto/ DebbieBurns
3. Come join the walk on Nov. 22 and donate in person!
Here are some facts you should know about your donation!
• 82 cents of every dollar support the direct needs of patients, the cost of treatment, and advancing cures for childhood cancer and other diseases!
• The remaining 18 cents is used for fundraising activities, such as the St. Jude Walk/Run and advertising, as well as general administrative expenses.
• Unlike many other hospitals, St. Jude relies almost entirely on public donations, research grants, and investment returns to operate and sustain its mission.
LIL’ EDDIE TODAY
Architectural Review Committee
BARRY GROESCH, CHAIR
Are you thinking about updating your home?
Any changes to the exterior of residences in Burnt Store Marina (BSM) are required to have Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval. This applies to all homes, as well as homes in a condo association. If this approval is not granted through ARC, you may be asked to modify or remove the changes made. All requests are made by completing an ARC form and adhering to Section 22 Homeowners Association (HOA) Restrictions. Remember to write legibly, and complete the entire form, including having your condo representative sign off (if required). Delays will occur if it cannot be deciphered, or the form is not completed in its entirety. Thanks.
The following applications were approved last month by the Section 22 HOA ARC:
• Neil Sharples, 24092 Redfish Cove Drive, exterior paint.
• Keith Smith, 4017 Cape Cole Boulevard, paver patio extension.
• Robert Duncan, 3392 Sunset Key Circle, Unit C, window and door replacement.
• Laurinda Travers, 17773 Courtside Landings Circle, roof replacement.
Section 22 restrictions and applications are available for download at BSM22.org. Submit your ARC applications to your association, if required, then to Alliant Property Management, 13831 Vector Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33919, Email: apmsupport@alliantproperty.com.
DID YOU KNOW?
An ARC did you know, moment...
Did you know…if you want to install a garage screen door, an ARC application is required. For all projects, go to the BSM22.org website to get your application.
• Edward & Nancy Philp, 4060 Key Largo Lane, front door replacement.
• David Jellison, 3020 Big Pass Lane, hurricane shutter installation.
• Robert Cross, 4801 Linkside Drive, generator installation.
• Ron & Pamela Shotts, 3081 Big Pass Lane, roof & gutter replacements.
• Barbara P. Whelan, 3245 Sugarloaf Key Road, window replacements.
DINING VENUES
LINKSIDE CAFÉ @ Burnt Store Marina C.C. 941-637-6405 | www.bsgac.org
23415 Vincent Ave, Punta Gorda
Open to the public
*Lunch – Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
*Dinner – Tuesday & Friday, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
*Call for information for specialty dinners.
*Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. Walk-ins are gladly accepted.
CASS CAY RESTAURANT & BAR 941-347-7148 | www.casscayrestaurant.com
Monday-Saturday, 12 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
*Nightly entertainment
THE TRADING POST - 239-789-3463
www.facebook.com/tradingpostbsm
Sunday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Featuring deli, breakfast & lunch, ice cream, pizza, beer & wine and ice.
Platinum Point Yacht Club –
Lots to Do On-Water and On-Land
You are invited to PPYC’s Open House Boaters and Non-Boaters Welcome!
LORETTA STEEVES, DIRECTOR
Sunday, November 17, 2024
3:00 5:30 PM Food and drinks will be provided. Stop in! We would love to tell you about PPYC.
Platinum Point Yacht Club is offering a fantastic promotional: $250 off Ini+a+on Fee plus a PPYC tote bag, caps/visors.
As a member of this year-round club, you will enjoy many OnWater and On-Land activities with new friends.
As always, the boaters of PPYC were eager to get started as soon as the fall weather appeared. PPYC’s racing program kicked off on October 20 with the Tune Up Race for the 2025-2026 season. The first official race was held on October 27. Races will be held each Monday through April and culminate with the Awards Luncheon on April 6.
Come check out what PPYC could mean for you AND SAVE!
Offer available for the Fiscal Year ending October 31, 2025
The cruising side of PPYC, ably captained by member Jack Butler, cruised together to Marco Island Marina on October 20 and safely returned on October 23. The Marco
trip allowed boaters, who otherwise might not feel confident sailing such a distance on open water, to sail in the company of a buddy boat. PPYC group cruises are arranged by Jack throughout the season with one cruise to a local marina each month. In November, our cruisers will be setting sail for Crow’s Nest Marina in Venice.
The kayaking group will take their paddles to Ponce DeLeon Park for a sunset cruise on November 5. Members
can bring their own kayaks, or rent from our guide, Steve Burroughs. After paddling about the mangroves, the group will kayak out into the harbor to watch the sunset. And, if all goes as usual, this friendly group will then adjourn downtown for dinner at a local eatery.
In November, things will be equally active on the On-Land side of PPYC. All of the weekly activities will be up and running: Stretch & Balance, Art Class, Jam Session, and Book Club. The game players will also be back to their fun and games with bridge, Mah Jongg, and bunco. And for those of us digitally challenged, we will be appreciating Friday’s Computer/Tech Help. Fridays will also see our Happy Hours on the Harbor View Deck, often accompanied by music from local talent. And let’s not forget the bi-weekly Grill Night and Sunset Social or other events planned by the Education Committee or the boating-themed Cinema Night. PPYC truly has something for everyone.
But PPYC is not only about the comradery found in weekly activities, it’s also a club that likes to party hearty. After getting down to business at the Annual Meeting on November 13, members will re-convene that evening for the Annual Welcome Back Dinner. Good food, good friends and the opportunity to dance the
night away is one of the hallmarks of PPYC’s love of fun times with friends.
Clearly, PPYC believes that life is better when it’s shared. And this belief in the importance of community extends out to the larger community of which we are a part. Once again, PPYC will welcome back the entire Burnt Store Community at our annual Shrimp Boil on November 19. This year’s event offers delicious food, live music, a bake sale, silent auction, and a raffle for a Boatload of Wine. Mark your calendar and invite your friends.
In another endeavor open to the entire community, PPYC will continue to support families at East Elementary School with our Adopt a Child Program. Each child in the family will receive several gifts including both clothing and toys. Both club members and non-members can join in this endeavor. Just stop by the PPYC clubhouse after November 22. Choose a child’s tag off the Christmas tree and record your name in the accompanying register. Return your wrapped gift to the club by December 4. You can also donate by giving a check to buy extra gifts. As stated in the Lee County Proclamation, Platinum Point Yacht Club has shown “exceptional dedication to enriching the lives of countless individuals and enhancing the community at large.” Please help us continue to make a difference in the lives of neighboring families.
PLATINUM POINT YACHT CLUB
COMMUNITY SHRIMP BOIL
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Great Food, Musical Entertainment, Bake Sale, Silent Auction, AND a special “Boatload of Wine Raffle!”
SHRIMP BOIL includes 1/2 lb shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, mini potatoes, dessert and water or soda. CASH BAR with beer and wine.
Wednesday, November 19, 2025 Seating Times 5:00 pm | 5:45 pm | 6:30 pm
Please register your entire group for a specific seating time.
$30 Per Person | Advance Reservations Required Ticket Sales Close November 12th
Tickets available at PPYC Office Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 9 to 5 (Reserved tickets may be picked up at Will Call. All sales final.)
PPYC ─ A Place to Belong Come Get to Know Us!
Sheriff’s Report September 2025
• 3 Speeding Warnings
○ 1 Resident
○ 2 Non-Residents
• 9 Stop Sign Warnings
○ 3 Resident
○ 6 Non-Residents
• 6 Other Infractions
○ Equipment, Expired Registration, Tag Violations, Seatbelt, and Windshield.
Membership Opportunities Available
Platinum Point Yacht Club
3601 Cape Cole Blvd. Punta Gorda, FL 33955 ppycbsm.org | 941-639-0733
RULES OF THE ROAD
Motor Vehicles: Always drive your vehicle on the right side of the road. There are no “turn lanes” within Burnt Store Marina. Never drive your vehicle in lanes indicated for the use of bicycles and pedestrians. Always stop at stop signs. Never exceed the posted speed limit.
Bicycles: Always ride your bicycle on the right side of the road, even if there is no “bike lane” available. Use hand signals to indicate intention to turn. Always stop at stop signs. Never exceed the posted speed limit.
Golf Carts: Always drive your golf cart on the right side of the road. Use hand signals to indicate intention to turn. Always stop at stop signs. Use lanes indicated for the use of bicycles and pedestrians only when neither is present.
Pedestrians: Always use lanes provided for bicycles and pedestrians. If there is no lane available, use the left side of the street, facing wheeled traffic. Use caution when crossing streets. Wear reflective clothing and carry a flashlight when walking or running after sunset.
Burnt Store Marina Dog Park
BSM DOG PARK COMMITTEE
The Halloween Pet Costume Party was a great event! Lots of fun for our members and new friends and pups. See pictures on our website.
We added a new feature at the entrance of each of the dog parks for our members. See picture at right. This is a bell that our members can ring if there are too many dogs congregating at the gate when they are trying to enter. All the dogs get so excited when a new dog is coming in and they run to greet them. When too many dogs do this
at the same time, it can be overwhelming for the dog and owner who is trying to enter. If the owner who is entering will ring this bell, all the owners who are in the park MUST come and retrieve their dogs and move their pet at least 10 feet from the gate to allow entry for the new dog and owner. Last year, we had noticed from our camera that a few owners became frustrated and left because of this issue. We want to ensure that it never happens again, and we think this will ensure that it does not.
We are still accepting brick and banner donations to pay for ongoing park landscaping and permanent toys. We are happy to have more memberships too! The forms for banners, bricks, and memberships can be found on the website: https://bsm22.org/dog-park/.
See you at the park!
WOOF! WOOF!
Bocce – That’s The Way We Roll!
KATHY DARRELL, TARPON PASS II
Get ready to roll! Bocce is back at BSMCC! That’s a big deal. Bocce started in October to kick off the 2025-2026 season. Come and join us. All you need is a desire to have fun, meet new friends, and a folding chair. Bocce is a crazy social, and super friendly game for anyone. You will never be intimidated because we are a very relaxed group of players.
Fun facts to remember about bocce is that it’s the third most popular sport in the world, after soccer and golf. Bocce, in its current form, was
played as early as 264 B.C. in Rome. No one really knows how old bocce is, but stone balls dating back to 9000 B.C. have been found in Turkey. Twenty-five million people in the U.S. alone play bocce. Notable bocce players have included the Roman Emperor Augustus, the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, and the astronomer Galileo. George Washington built a bocce court at Mount Vernon in 1780.
Consider joining the BSMCC Bocce Group. You do not have to be a member of BSMCC to play. It is a great opportunity to meet new folks, and make new friends that will have your back, and ensure you come to love the game of bocce.
For more information, and to be added to the email contact list, please contact Barbie Newmin at extixeno@aol.com .
Giochiamo a bocce! (Let’s play Bocce!)
SAVE THE DATE
Yes, it is summer, but Santa wants to let you know what will be going on this “Home for the Holiday Season.” The main events for this year have been established so please mark your calendars:
December 4 Tree Lighting Ceremony-Cass Cay-Trading Post
December 5 Pet Pictures with Santa -Christmas Tree Area
December 6 9-hole Santa Scramble-Burnt Store Marina Country Club
December 11
Adult Holiday Ornament Craft -Burnt Store Marina Country Club
December 12 Christmas Cart Parade-starts @ Burnt Store Marina Country Club
December 13 Christmas Pancake Breakfast -Tiki @ Safe Harbor
December 13 Boat Decorating Contest with beverage/snack Stations throughout the marina
December 16 Christmas Dinner with Event Awards Ceremony -Burnt Store Country Club
December 21st Kids Christmas Crafts with snacks and a Holiday Movie -Lanai @ Burnt Store Marina Country Club
There will be the usual Home Dec orating Contest as well, with Home Decorating Deadline to be around December 12th. Now you have the dates, mark your Calendars! Let’s make plans to Celebrate this year’s “Home for the Holidays.”
Please look forward to an update with information regarding contacts, times and places and/or possible additional events in the October Beacon and throughout the marina
Thank you and look forward to Celebrating with you: Lynda Vail
Section 22 Board of Director
Home for The Holidays Chairman lyndamac55@aol.com 973-800-6111
Fitness, Friends & Fun…Marna Has Gone International!
LEIGH ANN HALL
Recently members Geni and Bill traveled to China. They packed their exercise bands, and with Marna, BSM Fitness Instructor, on their phone to guide them through their workout, they never missed a beat.
We have launched a video library as part of our membership. We heard from members with annual memberships but still leave for the summer, that they miss their workouts! These members may not have access to a gym in the summer and were requesting videos. This encouraged us to start this video library. Videos also are valuable to members who would just
like to wake up and exercise at their leisure. Some members are new to the fitness facility, and this gives them confidence to work out at home.
We hope that our members enjoy the videos. Our goal is to add four new videos each month to better serve all members. Videos are sent out, usually, a day after the need letter in a separate email.
Join Us for Wish for Our Heroes Events
MICHELE HARDING, SWFL EVENT COORDINATOR, WISH FOR OUR HEROES FOUNDATION
We are excited to announce the Wish for Our Heroes events taking place at Burnt Store Marina from November 14 - 16, 2025! This annual celebration honors our veterans, and provides an opportunity for our community to show their appreciation.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15 –VETERANS BREAKFAST & HEROES DINNER
• Veterans Breakfast: 9 – 11 a.m. at Cass Cay Restaurant
• Heroes Dinner: Evening at Cass Cay Restaurant
○ VIP Tickets: $125 – Arrive at 4 p.m. for unlimited beer, wine, house liquor, and live music before regular ticket holders arrive.
○ Regular Admission: $65 – Entry at 5 p.m.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 – HEROES GOLF TOURNAMENT
• Location: Burnt Store Marina Country Club
• Shotgun Start: 12 p.m.
• Fee: $100 per player
• Limited to the first 144 players, so register early to secure your spot!
For more details and to purchase tickets for any of these events, please visit our website: Burntstoreveterans.org.
We look forward to seeing you at Burnt Store Marina for a weekend of celebration, camaraderie, and support for our heroes!
Blood Donation News
ANN SINGER, ADMIRAL’S POINT
DON’T MISS THE BUS
BSM Blood Drive Schedule for 2025-2026
Always on Monday 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Mark Your Calendar
November 10, January 19, March 23
The Big Red Bus from ONEBLOOD will be coming to Burnt Store Marina Monday, November 10, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. We look forward to seeing our returning donors, and meeting many new Burnt Store area residents and seasonal guests. Each successful donor will receive all three gifts, $20 eGift card, PowerBank, and a Chick- fil -A card for a free chicken sandwich.
ONEBLOOD is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) community asset responsible for providing safe, available and affordable blood to more than 300 hospital partners, and their patients, throughout Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.
While all blood types are needed, there is an increased need for O Negative and O Positive blood as well as Platelet donations.
WHAT IS BLOOD?
There is no substitute for blood, and it cannot be manufactured in a lab. The only
source for patients in need of a transfusion is volunteer blood donations. We need YOU TO DONATE NOVEMBER 10.
Generally healthy people, age 16 or older, and who weigh at least 110 pounds can donate blood. Photo ID is required. To learn more about blood donation and how donors can target the power of their blood type, visit oneblood.org. All donors receive a wellness checkup of blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count, a cholesterol screening, plus a surprise gift. One of three people will need blood in their lifetime. Blood that is donated on this day will likely be transfused within two to three days. The turnaround is that fast, the need is constant. Blood is made up of four main components: red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and white blood cells. Each whole blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives.
The bus is located in the Cass Cay/Trading Post parking lot. Make an appointment online, call, or just walk in the day of the drive. Now is a good time to schedule an appointment, or if you have questions, please call Ann Singer at 319-290-5955 or Jo Bucci at 941-445- 8260. To schedule online, log on to oneblood.org. Establish a username and password, and follow directions to schedule. Walk-ins are always welcome. Remember to bring a photo ID. Be sure to eat before you donate and drink lots of fluids before and after.
Peace River Audubon Society (PRAS)
RICK READ, BURNT STORE RESIDENT AND AUDUBON SOCIETY MEMBER
Did a bird catch your eye because it was bobbing its tail? This behavior lets you quickly narrow the ID possibilities down to two species. Since breeding season has not yet begun, there won’t be any singing to help with ID. So, the biggest differences between them are size and behavior.
This very common Palm Warbler is about 5 1/2” long. It moves constantly from branch-to-branch snagging insects, all the while pumping its tail. It is a winter visitor that stays with us from October through April.
This Eastern Phoebe is larger at 6 1/2” long. It sits more erect than the Palm Warbler and is much less active. It has a regular tail pump, but not in constant motion. It finds a perch and launches into the air or onto the ground for its meals. It is also a winter visitor that we can see from October through March.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
• Wednesday, November 12, 8 a.m. Field Trip with Sharon Wilcox, Myakka River State Park, 13208 State Rd. 72, Sarasota.
• Thursday, November 20, 6:30 p.m. Refreshments, 7 p.m. Program, “Exploring Antarctica” by Rick and Debbie Read, at the Regional Realtors Education Center, 3320 Loveland Blvd, Port Charlotte.
• Every Saturday, at 8:30 a.m., Nature Walk at Audubon Pennington Park, 1153 Alton Rd., Port Charlotte.
You do not have to be a member of PRAS to join us. Participation is free, and registration is not needed. Visit the website at www. peaceriveraudubonsociety.org for all the details, or you can contact fellow BSM resident Rick Read, at 574-870-2695 for information or car-pooling.
EASTERN PHOEBE BY RICK READ
PALM WARBLER BY RICK READ
Tight Lines…A Favorite Among Florida Shark Fishermen
JAY LEV, BURNT STORE ANGLERS
It never fails, whenever a guest comes to visit, they ask to catch a shark. Frequently, grandkids, friends living up north, and new residents of Burnt Store Marina have heard about the great shark fishing in and around Charlotte Harbor. The problem comes into play when the angler may never have hooked a 200 to 400 lb. shark. Members of the Burnt Store Anglers are frequently asked to give advice on where and how to catch a shark. One of the best pieces of advice we can give is to start out small. Many ask how you can control which shark will take your bait, and will it be small enough for a new or never before shark catcher to have a great experience?
There are several factors that you, as the trip planner, can control. Here are some of the suggestions offered by the Burnt Store Anglers.
• Select a species of shark that is known not to exceed 25 pounds. Once that decision is made, select your tackle.
• A light to medium weight spinning rod is an ideal fishing tool.
• Plan on fishing in shallow water. While large sharks are known to come into shallow water, a select group of small sharks make shallow water their home.
• Select a bait that will almost guarantee a shallow water shark hook-up.
• Before your trip, set some safety ground rules.
Be sure the angler understands that you will not bring a hooked shark into your boat. Pictures are taken while the shark is in the water. The hook may or may not be able to be removed from the mouth of the shark. If possible, the use of a commercial hook remover should be used, or when that is not possible, cut the wire leader as close as you feel safe to the shark’s mouth. Never handle a shark with its tail when trying to dislodge the hook. Since a shark does not have body bones, the cartilage allows the shark to wiggle violently. Many anglers’ hands or wrists have been broken. Finally, if the angler wants a shark tooth to remember their first shark catch, a trip to Fisherman’s Village Shops in Punta Gorda will be happy to sell you a nice shark tooth. Remember, a small shark is still a shark, and allows you to brag.
Now what shark can we easily catch. One of the fun small sharks under 25 pounds to catch is the bonnethead shark. Southwest Florida waters, especially in depths of 2 to 5 feet, is home to the bonnethead shark.
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The current all tackle world record is just over 26 pounds and just under 5 feet long. The bonnethead looks just like a mini hammerhead shark. Its eyes are placed out of the mass of the skull, but its head is round like a horseshoe. Many anglers thought they caught a small hammerhead, but it really was a bonnethead. The true hammerhead has a head shape that is more angular and shaped like a real hammer. The bonnethead feeds on blue claw crabs, shrimp, small bait fish, sand crabs, and all sorts of cut bait such as ladyfish chunks, small pieces of mullet and whitebait.
The best way to attract a bonnethead is to attach a 2/0, 3/0 or 4/0 circle hook to a 6-to-12-inch piece of steel leader, and then to a four foot of 30-to-35-pound leader material. Most experienced anglers like to place a float about four feet up the line to help the angler track activity around the bait. The bonnethead will usually feed just off the bottom, and quickly get attracted to the oil given off by the bait.
The angler can start reeling as soon as the float starts moving or becomes submerged. The shark’s behavior usually makes a fun run as soon as it realizes it has been hooked. Fishing a sandy bottom, with clear or turbid water, works well. These sharks are also found near grass beds, shoals, and oyster bars. It is possible to hook a black tip shark, nurse shark and a small sandbar shark. These fish usually
are fished in deeper water with larger baits. You will know if you hook one of these sharks, as your reel will scream offline, and chances of getting a 75-to-150-pound shark on a light spinning rod is not great.
Be prepared to catch a bonnethead when you are snook, redfish, and trout fishing as they all inhabit the same water. Have fun and get that first shark. It will be an experience to remember.
Tight Lines!
LEE COUNTY LEASH LAWS AND DOGGIE ETIQUETTE
It is a Lee County law, as well as a Burnt Store Marina rule, that all dogs are to be on leashes whenever outside residences.
The open lot at the corner of Cape Cole and Matecumbe is not a dog park. The Commodore residents own the whole part that is landscaped. Please keep your dogs off that property.
And… It is good manners and common courtesy to pick up after your pets.
SUPER EASY GRANOLA
INGREDIENTS
• 3 cups of oats (regular whole grain rolled oats – DO NOT use “steel cut” oats)
• 1 cup each (up to 3 cups) raw chopped nuts of your choice
– pecans, walnuts, slivered almonds etc.
• 1 cup raw sunflower seeds
• 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup of honey
• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Recipe Box
JENNIFER LECLAIR, PELICAN WAY
We stayed overnight with friends this summer, and my super healthy friend brought out Greek yogurt and granola for breakfast. The yogurt was a storebought brand (low-fat vanilla), but she had made the granola. It was delicious! She gave me the recipe, and within two days of returning home, Buster was asking me to make the granola, which I gladly did because it was sooo easy!
INSTRUCTIONS
Place oats, nuts and seeds in a large bowl. In a separate smaller bowl combine honey, coconut oil and vanilla and mix well. Add the oil mixture to the oats, nuts and seeds and mix well. Spread the oats out onto a parchment lined large sheet pan and spread out to single layer.
Bake at 325 degrees in a preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally so that the granola heats evenly and does not burn. When you get to the toasted level you like (I prefer lightly toasted so I bake mine for about 30 minutes), remove from the oven and at this point you can add any dried fruit you like (raisins, cranberries, etc.)
Let the granola cool and break it up since it hardens as it cools. It can be stored at room temperature in air-tight containers (zip-lock bags) or put into the freezer and taken out as needed.
The Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse
GRAHAM SEGGER, INDEPENDENT HOMEOWNER
Have you, like me, sometimes wondered why the Burnt Store Marina monthly newsletter is called The Beacon, when there are no lighthouses anywhere near the marina? The community leaders may have also realized this when they recently changed the front gate and golf course signage logo from a lighthouse to a sailboat, a change which I, as a sailor, appreciated.
Would you therefore be surprised to learn that for many years, long before Burnt Store Marina was established, there was, in fact, a substantial lighthouse located just off of our shores?
Special thanks to Neil E. Hurley, Historian for the Florida Lighthouse Association, for information about this lighthouse. He wrote a comprehensive article about it in the March, 2007 issue of Lighthouse Digest. Much of the detail below has been sourced from that article, with permission. Also, thanks to John Valickas of the Placida / Cape Haze Memories Facebook page for profiling the lighthouse, and alerting me to Mr. Hurley’s article about it.
From 1890 to 1943, the Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse was located very close to where the current Charlotte Harbor navigational Marker 6 is
positioned, and served much the same purpose. This conclusion is based upon the 1895 US coast survey reported position of the lighthouse, adjusted for datum changes, and compared to the Marker 6 location reported in current (2025) charting software.
CROPPED FROM CHART 11426MARKER 6 (DMS - 26º 45’ 35.9” N 82º 6’ 38.1” W) IS 2.5 NAUTICAL MILES WEST OF THE BURNT STORE MARINA HARBOR ENTRANCE.
In October, 1888, Congress passed an appropriation for $35,000 for “a light or lights and other aids to guide into Charlotte Harbor, Florida.” From this appropriation, both the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse (now known as the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse, located at the southern tip of Gasparilla Island) and the Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse were built. The Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse was positioned eight and one-half miles east of the mouth of Boca Grande Pass. The lighthouse was designed to assist ships navigating to Punta Gorda, which in 1886, had become the southern terminus of the Florida Southern Railroad. The light
RECENT BSM / BSGCC LOGOS
marked the deep-water channel and the point where inbound boats made a 90 degree turn to port to head north toward Punta Gorda.
Mr. Hurley states in his article that “it stood on a cast-iron pile foundation that provided a landing area just a few feet above sea level. On top of the foundation, the wooden lighthouse was described as being a square white one-and-a-half story structure, with green blinds and a brown roof, surmounted by an iron lantern. The lantern was painted black. The light was 37 feet above mean sea level. A 16-foot-long boat was hung on davits for the use of the Keeper.” He goes on to say that “inside the dwelling, the first floor contained a bedroom and a kitchen/sitting room. The second story contained another bedroom and a work room. The work room also doubled as the watch room. Iron steps or a ladder led from the landing to the dwelling, while inside the dwelling the steps were wooden. Access to the lantern room was through a trap door in the floor.”
Mr. Hurley provides extensive details about the lighthouse keepers and the type of lights deployed during its history. The Charlotte Harbor Lighthouse was staffed from 1890 until 1912, but continued in automated operation until 1943.
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, LIGHTHOUSE BOARD, 1901 (NATIONAL ARCHIVES)
The 1895 Coast Survey map (shown on the next page) states that light No. 5 was a fixed red (F.R.) while current Marker 6 is a 4-second-intervalflashing red. A 1909 USCG Coast Survey report listed the DMS position of the lighthouse using the 1901 U.S. Standard datum as 26º 45’ 34.92” N; 82º 6’ 38.769” W, which, converted to NAD83 (1999) is 26º 45’ 35.917” N; 82º 6’ 38.10” W, very close to the same position of current Marker 6.
The main cargo for the ships using the harbor was phosphates from the deposits up the Peace River, as well as passengers and freight connecting with the railroad in Punta Gorda. Several factors contributed to the demise of this lighthouse. In 1896 Henry Plant, the new owner of the railroad that terminated in Punta Gorda (and owner of a competing line to Tampa), removed the rails to the deep water dock in Punta Gorda. This effectively cut off rail access for ocean going deep keel boats. In 1907 the
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CROP FROM 1895 U.S. COAST AND GEODESIC SURVEY CHART NO. 175 – SAN CARLOS BAY TO LEMON BAY INCLUDING CHARLOTTE HARBOR (CURRENT DAY BURNT STORE MARINA WOULD BE DUE EAST OF THE LIGHT)
Charlotte Harbor and Northern Railway was completed between Arcadia and Boca Grande, providing a new direct outlet to deep water for the phosphates being mined from the upper Peace River valley. By 1943 the channel to Punta Gorda had experienced further silting and the 53-year-old lighthouse had deteriorated to a dangerous condition. It was dismantled and replaced by a light on a ten-foot pole. The iron base was not removed until 1975.
Each time you cruise up or down Charlotte Harbor, or leave Burnt Store Marina and pass by Marker 6, take a moment to reflect on the legacy of this historic navigational Beacon.
Rules for Driving Golf Carts
There has been some confusion about operating golf carts in Burnt Store Marina. Please be aware that there are rules for golf cart use, and a violation will get you a citation from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Effective October 1, 2023, golf carts may not be operated on any “streets” by someone who is under the age of eighteen (18), unless the driver has a valid learner’s permit or driver’s license. The term “street” is defined by Statute to include “…any privately owned way or place used for vehicular travel….” In other words, the BSM community’s roadways would be subject to the legislative change and its new requirements.
• Drivers of golf carts must observe the same rules as those designated for drivers of motor vehicles.
• Drivers must keep their carts on the right side of all streets, and obey all traffic signage.
• No one without a driver’s license or learner’s permit is allowed to drive on streets within Burnt Store Marina.
Gardener’s Wheelbarrow
MAGGIE HART, MARINERS PASS
Though the summer is over, keep a weather-eye. Hurricane season doesn’t end until November 30.
THIS MONTH’S GARDENER’S CHECKLIST:
• The cumulative effect of cooler/shorter days on plants is slower growth requiring less water, less fertilizer and in the case of lawns, less mowing.
• November is our driest month of the year with about four days of rain yielding an average of 1-1/3 inches. If you plan to add plants, be sure to expect to hand water them.
• As long as the temperature is below 80 degrees, it is safe to treat the weeds in your lawn.
• No more pruning until early March. Pruning stimulates growth that can be damaged by frosts, possible from November through March, though the first frost date is December 15, and the average last frost date is January 31. The time period of 6 to 6:30 a.m. is the coldest. And, if there is a frost, the plants facing east will get the blast of the sun first, not allowing them to warm slowly. This is a problem. The cells in the leaves burst, resulting in dark green, limp foliage.
• Planting tropical shrubs and trees at this time of the year is risky due to the colder temperatures.
• When planting cool season annuals and herbs, use new top soil and a slow-release fertilizer. Osmocote is pricey, but very good, and comes in an easy to handle container. Osmocote Plus contains additional micronutrients that are very much needed.
• If you haven’t applied fertilizer to shrubs and trees - the deadline is the middle of November, when the temperatures might become too chilly.
• And…If you haven’t mulched yet, do so to retain moisture during the dry winter months.
November Off-Beat Holidays and Adventures
MAGGIE HART, MARINERS PASS
We have already begun to see our friends from up north start trickling down to sunny and warm Burnt Store Marina. And in November, one of the really great things we begin to see is an abundance of outdoor events – fairs and festivals. Nearly every town in Florida sponsors some kind of outdoor celebration that includes music, arts & crafts, and of course, food. Some are listed below, and I have included some recurring holidays, too.
November 1 - 2: Florida International Air Show, Punta Gorda
Highlights of the 2025 Florida International Air Show include: Dynamic performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the F-16 Viper Demo Team, and a versatile roster of acts, including Aarron Deliu, Doug Litton, and The Chuters Jump Team. Tickets On Sale Now: floridaairshow.com
November 2: End of Daylight Savings Time. This Sunday, remember to turn your clocks, at 2 a.m., back one hour to 1 a.m. Or, take the easier way, get up at your regular hour and turn them back then.
November 7 - 8: American Indian Arts Celebration, Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation. This is Native American Heritage month, and what would be better than to celebrate with the Seminoles at their annual celebration of culture, arts, dance and music. Features exhibitors, Native American entertainment, indigenous food, critter shows, crafts and more. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free
parking and entrance to the museum. Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, 34725 West Boundary Road, Clewiston 877902-1113. www.ahtahthiki.com
The Marine Corps Birthday is on November 10, and celebrates the establishment of the U.S. Marine Corp in 1775.
In the U.S.A., Veterans Day annually falls on November 11. Today is the anniversary of the signing of the armistice, which ended the World War I hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany in 1918. Veterans are thanked for their services to the United States on Veterans Day. Burnt Store Marina celebrates Veterans Day the following weekend, with proceeds benefiting needy veterans and their families. For information, see the article in this Beacon for Wish for Our Heroes Foundation.
November 12 is National Happy Hour Day. While it’s a celebration in and of itself, it is such a beloved tradition that it’s worthy of having a day to celebrate it. Happy hour
socials started as a bonding ritual among sailors in the U.S. Navy during World War I, but it didn’t take long for the rest of the nation to adopt them. So, every November 12 we celebrate National Happy Hour Day. Drink up!
National Pickle Day is an unofficial holiday which is celebrated every year on November 14. The purpose of this holiday is to recognize the importance of the pickle. It’s a food that people generally don’t think about – until a restaurant puts it next to your sandwich. So, if you’re a fan of pickles and want to honor the contributions they have made to the modern diet, then today is a great day to do it. All you need to do is grab your favorite jar of pickles and dig in.
National Fast Food Day is observed annually on November 16 . This holiday celebrates a uniquely American cuisine - the fast food restaurant. The first fast food restaurant to open up in the United States was White Castle. This company was founded by Walter Anderson and Billy Ingram in Wichita, Kansas in 1921. This restaurant was considered to be ahead of its time for several different reasons. One, they sold hamburgers for a nickel each. Two, this restaurant allowed customers to see how their food was being prepared, and three, the food was served quickly and efficiently.
November 20 is set aside for The Great American Smokeout . The decision to quit smoking can feel overwhelming. Often, the hardest part is simply making the actual decision to quit. To help people take this important first step, the American Cancer Society sponsors the Great American Smokeout, challenging smokers to start by giving up cigarettes for 24 hours. If you or a loved one smokes cigarettes, consider taking the first step toward quitting cigarettes forever!
November 22: St. Jude’s 5k Walk – Burnt Store Marina
Join other residents and visitors in raising funds on behalf of St. Judes Hospital for Children. Starting 9:30 a.m., 3929 Cape Cole Blvd.
November 27 is Thanksgiving Day . Today we in the United States give thanks for our many, many blessings. Modern Thanksgiving was first officially called for in all states in 1863 by a presidential proclamation of Abraham Lincoln , creating a national Thanksgiving on the final Thursday in November. On December 26, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a joint resolution of Congress changing the national Thanksgiving to the fourth Thursday in November.
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November 27 - 30: Daytona Turkey Run, Daytona Beach.
Take a walk down memory lane and relive a 46-year tradition with the Daytona Turkey Run, the largest combined classic car show and swap meet in the United States! Four days of family fun at Daytona International Speedway! The annual Daytona Turkey Run is a car enthusiast’s dream held each Thanksgiving weekend in the infield of the
World Center of Racing. Special features include swap meet vendors, a Car Corral of thousands of cars available for purchase, and handmade art, crafts and fashion – perfect for holiday shopping. Daytona International Speedway,1801 West International Speedway Boulevard. www.turkeyrun.com
NEW PALM TREES PLANTED ON THE MARINA WALK BY KAREN SANDERSON
ENJOY A GOLF CART RIDE AROUND THE MARINA BY KAREN SANDERSON
Enjoying Your Walk
JAN MCLAUGHLIN, FORMER BEACON EDITOR
One morning a fellow walker stopped me and asked what the distance was around Prosperity Point, and how far was it from there to the front entry gate. With lots of residents returning and enjoying our pedestrian paths, I offer the following. All distances were measured with a GPS while riding in a golf cart.
• Islamorada Entrance Gate to Cape Cole Blvd. – 0.82 mile
• Cape Cole Blvd., golf clubhouse gate arm to Islamorada Blvd. – 0.60 mile
• Cape Cole Blvd., golf club gate arm to Matecumbe Key entry – 0.72 mile
• Matecumbe Key Blvd., construction entrance to Cape Cole Blvd., 0.72 mile
• Matecumbe Key Blvd., Cape Cole Blvd., to South Shore – 0.55 mile
• Courtside Landings’ Loop, start/stop at entrance – 0.48 mile
• Prosperity Point sidewalk loop, start/ stop at Matcumbe Key Blvd, 1.26 mile
• Admiral’s Point loop (includes Key Largo Lane Circle, Sable Key Circle and Key Largo Circle) start/stop at Marathon & Cape Cole Blvd., 1.06 mile
Wonderful resources for walkers abound on the Internet. These sites offer a wide selection of audio music apps for beginners to advanced walkers, exercise videos, gear (including shoes), accessories and resource information.
• Tarpon Pass loop, start/stop at Islamorada Blvd., 0.76 mile
BEAUTIFUL VIEWS ON OUR GOLF COURSE BY KAREN SANDERSON
Seabreeze Communications Expands In Weston And South Miami-Dade With Launch Of Two Community News Sites
Seabreeze Communications is excited to announce the upcoming launch of WestonTogether.com, created in partnership with the Weston Chamber of Commerce, and SouthDadeSpotlight.com, developed in collaboration with the South Dade Chamber of Commerce.
Both platforms are designed to bring local news, events, and stories directly to residents, businesses, and visitors. Each site will feature a monthly digital
magazine, event calendar, and neighborhood stories that highlight the people and places that make each area unique.
“These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media,” said Stephen Miller, president of Seabreeze Communications. “We’re proud to work alongside both Chambers of Commerce to celebrate their cities and support local businesses.”
Both Weston Together and South Dade Spotlight are set to go live January 2026.
To subscribe for updates and digital magazine releases from Weston Together or South Dade Spotlight, visit SeabreezeCommunications.com .
For advertising, partnership, or community story inquiries, contact Sales@seabreezecommunications.com . These new sites reflect our mission to connect communities through accessible, high-quality local media