Burnt Store Marina SEPTEMBER 2025

From the Section 22 HOA

MIKE MCFEELEY, PRESIDENT

Doing the right thing isn’t always fun!

2025 has been the year of doing things that are necessary, but not much fun. As we look at the last few years, we have been able to do a number of things to improve the look of the community, improve our amenities and enhance our lifestyle by investing in things that we can enjoy. We are proud of all we have accomplished, while increasing HOA fees by less than $90 in three years. Financially, we still maintain a strong position, but we must constantly look at how and where we spend money. Our 10 Year special assessment that was used to purchase the amenities back in 2017, is on schedule to be retired by mid-year 2026. This was a great decision that enabled our community to control our own destiny with regards to community irrigation, golf course, Linkside restaurant, fitness center and resort pool. The upkeep for all of these investments is considerable and ongoing.

Even though this time of year slows down with many residents escaping to cooler climates, it is never boring here for those that choose to call this place home. The golf courses are less crowded, much cheaper and in great shape. Tennis and pickleball courts have very little waiting time, and still quite a few players. The fitness center has no lines, open space and classes available. Restaurants have “Buy One Get One” specials, as well as live music a number of days each week. Every business is working hard to get residents to come on in. The sun shines every day, with a little afternoon rain to slow us down. In short, it is very much still Paradise.

Summer at Burnt Store Marina (BSM) is a time for us to get work done, and prepare for the coming season. We’ve completed the new golf course irrigation well to help eliminate any problems

(continued on page 4)

we may have during the dry season. The new irrigation well to provide water for the community irrigation pond is set to be drilled sometime in the fourth quarter. The Section 22 Board has been working with Rocky Mansfield and Mike Lemon for 12 months trying to get the permitting and work scheduled. Both Rocky and Mike have put 100s of hours into this project, which results in a substantial savings to every one of us. As many of us have experienced, getting work done in Florida in a timely fashion can be challenging. Thankfully, the summer rains are taking the pressure off, and we should be in great shape come fall.

Phase 2 of the road resurfacing is being completed this month. The community has a three-year plan to replace all the Section 22 roads, with the final roads to be completed in the summer of 2026. Infrastructure work is the least enjoyable way to invest community money, but it is a necessity if we are to continue to have a beautiful community to call home. Wells, roads, landscaping, bridges, and amenities are all vital to keeping BSM a top contender when people are looking for beautiful places to call home.

Safe Harbor continues their multi-milliondollar investment in the marina. Under the new ownership of Blackstone Investments, we are excited to see what other expansion ideas they have. Blackstone is also just completing the purchase of Sun Seekers Resort in Port Charlotte. Without the ability to build a marina at Sun Seekers,

Infrastructure work is the least enjoyable way to invest community money, but it is a necessity if we are to continue to have a beautiful community to call home.

we become their closest marina, which can only help create more positive exposure for our community. The work on the North Basin continues in front of Marina Towers and Harbor Towers that will all but complete the entire north basin. The floating docks are installed and look great as they await boats. The seawall along Marina South Shore continues to go in, and should be finished soon. The new color scheme of the homes along with new seawalls and docks will certainly enhance their look. It has been years of construction, but steady progress moves us ever closer to completion. As far as marinas go, Burnt Store Marina will be a gem with few equals.

The BSM Dog Park will have a different look for those that bring their furry friends over for a run. There is a new permanent shade structure, which will provide protection for the owners as they watch their dogs play. The new structure is rated for winds above 150 mph, which will hopefully do the trick if mother nature chooses to visit us. Fundraisers and get-togethers have been going on all summer, as this motivated group plans for more improvement in the coming months.

When those of you who leave for the summer return, you will notice the many new subdivisions continue to spring up within 5 miles of BSM. There are three new subdivisions under construction on Zemel Rd., three new subdivisions well underway across from Heritage Landing, and new permits filed for expansion south on Burnt Store Road. Homes continue to spring up on every open lot in Burnt Store Lakes, Burnt Store Village, and every other established community with buildable lots. All this growth is exciting, but also creates new challenges. Where are all these people expected to play golf, boat, dine out, workout or play racquet sports? Some of these new communities have limited amenities, but none have what we have.

Future Section 22 Boards will have some challenging issues to face as we attempt to embrace the future. The Board is working with a consulting firm, Morris/Depew, to look at ideas for the future. One thing is for certain, we are already outgrowing our amenities, so change is imperative.

Most of you will be observant enough to notice the two-tone color on Vincent Rd. Charlotte County has been collecting taxes from Burnt Store Lakes residents for years to pay for the paving of Vincent Rd. As most of you know, the Lee and Charlotte County line is right in the middle of Vincent Rd. BSM does “NOT” own our side of

(continued on page 6)

Vincent Rd. Lee County hasn’t been specifically taxing us for the road replacement. We have had meetings with both Lee and Charlotte counties, and we informed both of them, we aren’t paying for a road we don’t own. We are spending $1.5 million dollars over three years on roads we own. Lee County informed us that they consider our half of the road in good condition, and wouldn’t replace it even if they chose to do it. The long and short of the issue is that Lee County doesn’t want to take responsibility for the road. This will become a political discussion that may take years to resolve. In 2030, Lee County is preparing to begin the “continuous green T” improvement at the intersection of Burnt Store and Vincent

roads. 2030 is still the date for some movement on the overall expansion of Burnt Store Road. The issue of paving the south side of Vincent Road will become a bigger issue when the other work is done in 2030. Future boards, as well as concerned citizens, will need to advocate for repaving at that time.

Another major issue taking up a lot of time this summer concerns our community irrigation system. The cost for irrigating our homes and common areas is approximately 1/6 of the cost of getting the water from Charlotte County Utilities. That savings is substantial, and all the thanks goes to the decision to purchase the amenities in 2017. We are currently looking at our system to figure out a way to streamline our process for billing, to make it more accurate and easier to administer. Right now we have over 160 individual meters that need to be read, input, verified and billed monthly. This process is labor intensive, and incurs charges at every step. One solution is to convert to Bluetooth meters to allow easier reading. The cost of this solution is approximately $250,000. Another option under review is to set up a grid of the entire community that will allow us to control the water flow through a limited number (less than 20) of meters, with shut off switches, so we can regulate the flow of water without all the individual readings

and billings. Under this solution, we would bill each homeowner a yearly fee for irrigation based on lot size. This will eliminate the cost of reading meters, replacing meters, gathering data and billing residents. Presently, Ron Seals Landscaping does all the reading of meters, compiling data and maintenance on the system. Alliant Property Management does the monthly billing, and all the reconciling. Suffice it to say, we can save a lot of money if we can create a new system. We are currently working with irrigation professionals along with our irrigation committee to investigate our options.

Another problem that we’ve known about for years involves the access to the community irrigation pump house. These pumps provide all the water for the entire community. Large trucks are occasionally required to move and replace pumps, and conduct maintenance. These trucks have been entering through owners’ private property since there is no other good option for access. The board is looking at purchasing a piece of property to use as a right of way to forever secure access to this area. As vacant lots disappear in the community. Our window for fixing this problem gets smaller. Fortunately, there are several options available to remedy this problem. More information will be forthcoming.

There is always ongoing work on the golf course infrastructure to keep it beautiful and well maintained. New shoreline work has been completed to stop erosion on some holes. Bridge and sea wall work continues to help fix up other areas. The golf course and restaurant will begin to implement a cashless system this fall. The goal is to make it easier for servers and clients to use technology, and to assist in inventory and administration. We will have the ability to have a credit card on file, so all our purchases go straight to your number. You will also be able to use your credit card to make purchases if you don’t want it in the system. The goal is to improve efficiency and administration, which ultimately saves money and time.

(continued on page 8)

The waterfront around Prosperity Point is alive and well in the summer. Small tarpon can be seen daily, dolphins make regular visits, and the manatees come and go all day. Walkers, bikers and golf carts make it a busy place. I recently had an exchange with a E-bike rider. As he drove past quickly, I told him to slow down. He then stopped to tell me he is tired of people telling him to slow down. I mentioned that E-bikes weren’t allowed on the walkway to which he disagreed. Upon leaving he called me a part of the human body that discharges

waste. I laughed and then corresponded with two members of the Prosperity Point board including the President Bill Boykin who told me that E-bikes are not allowed on the walkway. One of our recent hurricanes knocked down the sign. Golf carts are the only allowed motorized vehicles allowed. The Prosperity Point board will be taking this issue up again at their next meeting. The ultimate goal is to make it safe and enjoyable for everyone.

I could go on about shade structures at the tennis court, and the new hydration station to help make things better for pickleballers and tennis players, but I’ve probably covered enough. In closing, I would be remiss if I didn’t publicly recognize and thank the

members of the Section 22 board for their continued efforts all summer long. The board along with superstars like Mike Lemon, Rocky Mansfield, Major Andy Scott and Mike Sanchez work all summer, while everyone else plays, to make sure that BSM continues to be our slice of Paradise!

REMINDER

Section 22 HOA Board Meeting

Tuesday, September 23 at 9 a.m.

Location: Linkside Patio

Section 22 HOA Board Workshops

Every Tuesday at 9 a.m.

Location: Linkside Patio

Hurricane Preparation Guide

REMEMBER – THE FIRST THREE DAYS ARE ON YOU

Make a hurricane plan in advance of hurricane season How will you receive emergency alerts and warnings? What is your shelter plan? What is your evacuation route?

For more on hurricane plans visit: www.ready.gov/plan

Prepare a disaster supply kit:

3-day supply of nonperishable food and bottled water

Manual can opener (for food)

Flashlights, portable radio and extra batteries

Phone charger and back up batteries

First aid kit & medication (minimum of one week supply)

Extra cash

Pet food and supplies

Important documents such as insurance policies

Fuel for generators

With Hurricane season quickly approaching, June through November, the time to prepare is NOW! We know how bad a Cat 5 storm can be, get ready. Being prepared will help get us through major storm events a bit easier. The Burnt Store Marina Emergency Preparedness Group offers you some recommendations. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

For more on a disaster supply kit visit: www.ready. gov/kit

Obtain a copy of WINK Hurricane guide and/or other local hurricane preparation guides.

(continued on page 10)

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

Karen Kalisz

Michelle Feeney

Andie Reynolds

UTILITIES

Lee County Electric 239-995-2121

Charlotte County Utilities 941-764-4300

Century Link

800-488-2201

Comcast 800-266-2278

Broadstar 941-205-0244

PUBLIC SHELTERS

Mariner High School 701 Chiquita Blvd., Cape Coral

Diplomat Elementary 1115 N.E. 19th St., Cape Coral

Skyline Elementary 620 S.W. 19th St., Cape Coral

NOAA WEATHER RADIO / PUBLIC RADIO EMERGENCY NETWORK

NOAA Weather Radios provide 24-hour continuous broadcasting of current and forecasted weather conditions. For weather warnings and advisories for Lee and Charlotte Counties monitor WXK83, Channel 4 (162.475 MHz), transmitting from Ft Myers. The following are the identification or FIPS codes for Lee and Charlotte counties:

• Lee – 012071 • Charlotte – 012015

WGCU-90.1FM is the Southwest Florida affiliate of the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network, a system created to communicate information statewide before, during and after an emergency. Stations in the network are equipped to stay on the air even during power outages and will continue to provide information during the recovery of a major weather event or other emergency. They work in partnership with the Florida Division

of Emergency Management and the Lee County Emergency Operations Centers. Tune in for the most up-to-date information.

COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT)

22 full-time BSM residents are CERT team members. Working directly with the Cape Coral Fire Department, members are assigned in pairs to service all areas (ZONES) in BSM. CERT members will be recognizable by their green shirts and CERT hats. They are trained in First-aid, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and are here to guide you through natural disasters. Use the dropdown menu on the bsm22.org website for more information, such as areas (ZONES) nearest the CERT member and contact information. You can also find a list of AED locations within the community on the bsm22.org website. CERT teams provide aid and assistance until emergency response agencies arrive on the scene.

The power equipment at the Burnt Store Country Club and the main gate have been beefed up and will be supplied with adequate fuel. The Country Club will also serve as the communication center if phone and internet service fail in the marina.

Please take some time to look at this new addition to your resources and help prepare for hurricane season! In case of a weather emergency, and you provide or need help, your CERT staging area is the Country Club.

Mark Your Calendar – Out and About

INSIDE THE GATES DATES

Friday, September 1: Deadline for the October Beacon. Article and picture submissions are welcomed. Become part of the Beacon family.

Tuesday, September 23: Section 22 HOA Board Meeting, Linkside patio, 9 a.m.

OUTSIDE THE GATES DATES

Friday, September 5: Fort Myers River District Art Walk, 1 to 5 p.m. Visit many galleries, exhibitions and performances.

Saturday, September 13: 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, 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 transforms the ancient art of paper folding into awe-inspiring metal sculpture.

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.

Friday, September 19: 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, September 20 and Sunday, September 21: 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 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

gbeaton@carolina.rr.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 18)

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

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 Decorating Contest as well. 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

Burnt Store Marina CC News

JOHN ABBOTT, GENERAL MANAGER, BSMCC

Well, September is here, and we all know what that means…that’s right, it’s time for football! Linkside Café has the Sunday ticket, and is a great place to watch all your favorite teams. Bring your friends and family over, and enjoy discounted food and beverages, good football and good times. If you are the type that would rather watch the game at home, come by for our delicious breakfast prior to kickoff.

There is a lot more going on at BSMCC this month, beginning with our Labor Day Scramble on Monday the 1st, followed by a cookout to celebrate the holiday. A portion of the tournament entry fees will be donated to “Folds of Honor” so we hope that everyone will sign up to play.

The other golf event in September is a Goofy Golf Scramble on September 21. This is a fun twist to our regular scrambles, and is always a crowd pleaser.

Our calendar stays full at Linkside with trivia every Monday, dinner every Tuesday and Friday, and lots of different events on Wednesdays and Thursdays. These events include a Mediterranean dinner, Music Bingo, Prime Rib night, Pasta night, Ladies’ night, Name that Tune and more. On Saturdays we continue to provide live music inside the café, along with pub night food specials.

Check out the weekly blast for all the dates and changes to our event schedule. If you do not get the weekly blast, stop by or call the administration office and give us your email address so we can get you on the list.

As always, we look forward to seeing everyone at the club!

BSMCC September 2025

BSMCC September 2025 Schedule

* Call Linkside for reservations 941-637-6405 ** Sign up in Lobby on Board

Reservations for Republican and Democrat Dinners must be made through respective Due to circumstances beyond our control, everything is subject to change.

2025 Schedule of EventsSchedule of Events

Golf Tip of the Month

BILL CONNELLY, MANAGER OF GOLF OPERATIONS

How many of you get a bucket of balls, go to the range, and hit that bucketful as fast as you can without actually practicing anything? Hitting a bucket of balls on a consistent basis is a good thing to support your golf swing. One thing that I do, when I get a chance to practice, is always to practice with a purpose. I may not hit a lot of balls, but every swing has a purpose. Whatever it is that you are working on, make sure to incorporate it into your practice session.

One thing that will help your swing, is to learn to read your divots. If your divot is facing left, most likely the ball is going right. That is caused by your swing going outside in or “over the top.” Try to pull the club down with your front side. This will promote an inside-to-out swing, which will correct your slice. If your divot faces too far to the right, then you are swinging too far inside. To correct that, try to bring the club straight back instead of snatching it inside right off the ball.

Start spending the majority of your practice time on and around the putting green.

One thing that will help your swing, is to learn to read your divots.

Once you start concentrating on making more putts and improving your short game in general, you won’t have to spend so much time on the driving range hitting ball after ball.

Be sure to sign up for the Labor Day “Folds of Honor” Scramble on Monday, September 1, starting at 9 a.m. with a cook-out to follow. On Saturday, September 20 is the Goofy Golf Scramble at 9 a.m. Also, remember the weekly 9-hole scramble every Tuesday at 3 p.m.

Follow us @burntstoregolf on Instagram for course updates. Please stop in for lunch and do some shopping, we would love to say hello.

And as always, have fun learning to enjoy your game. @burntstoregolf FOLLOW

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

• Tarpon Pass loop, start/stop at Islamorada Blvd., 0.76 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.

Fitness, Friends & Fun…Welcome Back to Those Cool Autumn Breezes

CYNDI MATTHEWS

With the scorching summer in the rear-view mirror, things are still hot and exciting at the Fitness, Racquet & Pool Club. Yep.

NEW INSTRUCTOR

First, let’s welcome our newest instructor, Kate Medina. After passing the comprehensive American Council on Exercise (ACE) Group Fitness Exam, she’s ready to go. The curriculum

combines basic physiology, group fitness techniques, and the ACE proven behavior-change theory. Providing high level, professional fitness classes is our goal, and we are happy to have another Certified Group Fitness Instructor on our team.

ONLINE CLASSES

Speaking of fitness, we’ve found a way to provide our exercise classes with you wherever you are! By taking videos of our instructors leading, if your schedule or class is full, you can still enjoy our BSM fitness at home or away. We are learning to perfect this technique and welcome your feedback. Members, check your email for the links to our first classes.

IT’S LADIES’ NIGHT

Ready to have a little fun off the courts and outside of the fitness center? Want to make some friends? Well, mark the calendar for the first Wednesday of the month! We will be meeting at Cass Cay at 1:15 p.m. on September 3 (and the rest of the first Wednesdays of the month) and invite you to join us. Check out the signup sheet near the front of our fitness center, and we’ll see you there.

LAURIE SPEER

GET TO KNOW INSTRUCTOR

LAURIE SPEER

Laurie’s smiling face, confidence, and high level of personal fitness are just what you’d expect from a longtime fitness professional. With 25 years of experience as a group exercise director, instructor, and personal trainer, she spent time as the Group Fitness Coordinator at Crunch Fitness. She also has certifications in Kettle Bell, TRX, Yoga, Barre, Pilates Mat and Reformer.

She relocated from New Jersey to our area 14 months ago along with Molly and Darla, her pit bulls. When she’s not in the gym, you’ll find her on the water or at the beach. She’s got two grown children, a daughter in Colorado and a police officer son in New Jersey.

Laurie is dedicated to healthy goals and says, “If you consider your fitness goals worthy then they are worthy of your full effort.”

Improvement Reminder – Watch your email for the exact dates that the parking lot will be closed.

Platinum Point Yacht Club –

It’s All about Community

You are invited to PPYC’s Open House Boaters and

LORETTA STEEVES, DIRECTOR

Sunday, November 17, 2024

3:00 5:30 PM

this year-round club, you will enjoy many OnWater and On-Land activities with new friends.

If there’s one thing you can say about Platinum Point Yacht Club members, it’s that they believe life is better when it’s shared. Another way to say that is that PPYC members know the importance of community.

One way PPYC attempts to bring together the Burnt Store community is with our annual Shrimp Boil. As we all know, many of us here in Southwest Florida leave for cooler climates in the summer, so our return to the marina each fall always presents an opportunity for renewed fellowships. Were you one of the lucky people at last year’s Shrimp Boil? It was an unforgettable afternoon, as over 120 PPYC volunteers created a Southern feast to welcome the entire community back together for the season.

ending October 31, 2025

A Place to Belong!

Last year the weather promised storms, so at the last minute, the event was moved inside the club. Volunteers filled a variety of roles. Guests were greeted by a team of parking attendants and shuttle drivers, 22 ambassadors were on hand to greet and seat guests, and 14 bartenders and waitstaff served up libations. 21 people worked as cooks and food runners, and 14 servers manned the buffet, while guests were entertained by our very own PPYC musicians.

This year marks PPYC’s 5th annual Shrimp Boil. Be sure to put November 19, 2025, on your calendar. Not only will there be a feast; there will be live music by PPYC musicians and a bake sale to rival any church group or PTA. And let’s not forget the “Boatload of Wine Raffle,” where two lucky winners will

take home enough wine to supply them through the entire season.

Another way that PPYC cares for the larger community is with our annual Adopt-AChild drive. For several years, PPYC has collected holiday gifts for families with students at East Elementary School. And true to our goal of increased community, the club also invites people from within Burnt Store Marina to contribute to the cause. This past year we gifted forty children from twenty-three different families.

In honor of this dedication and service to students, PPYC was recognized by the Charlotte County School Board as a Business Partner of the Year. As always, PPYC is thankful to be able to work with our Burnt Store neighbors to support needy families. We look forward to working with you again this holiday season.

When asked what the PPYC experience brought to them, members said such things as:

• “Members are fun and inclusive.”

• “New members are recognized and made to feel welcome.”

• “Friends become like family.”

Because we know that any group can be somewhat daunting to newcomers, PPYC members really do make it a habit to wear their name tags whenever they are at the club. (I, being of that age when remembering things has become a challenge, have three name tags – one at the house, one in the golf cart, and one on the boat.) We also hold a yearly Trim-A-Tree party, where new members are introduced and invited to join the tradition of placing a personalized ornament on the holiday tree.

So, whether it’s the people we share our town with or the Marina itself, PPYC members hold the bigger view. And when it comes to our membership itself, let’s just say that PPYC members like to make and keep the friendships that make our lives worth living.

The final way that PPYC members build community is within the club membership itself. Within the marina, PPYC is known as a club where people hang out together to have fun – be it at Friday Happy hours, where we watch the sun set from the Harbor View Deck, or at any of the monthly themed parties with dinner and dancing. PPYC members never pass up the opportunity to dance the night away, be it with our partners or with our girlfriends. The sense of comradery in the club is fostered and grows within the context of these many group events. PPYC – A Place to Belong.

If any of these endeavors spark your interest, please come to our Open House on November 16. You can also stop by the office any Monday, Wednesday or Friday or call 941-639-0733 and talk with our most friendly Club Administrator, Dorothy Schroeder.

Burnt Store Marina Dog Park

BSM DOG PARK COMMITTEE

The new permanent shade pavilion for our members and dogs is finished! The pavilion looks great, and covers the seating area of both the small and large dog parks. We will now focus on finishing the installation of the remaining bricks our members and friends have already purchased, along with added landscaping.

We are still accepting banner donations to pay for ongoing park landscaping, and permanent toys. We are happy to have more memberships too! The forms for banners and memberships can be found on the website https://bsm22.org/dog-park/.

In this hot weather, some of the dogs have been enjoying the kiddy pools when owners have filled them. Those who use them have been emptying them out and putting them away when they leave, otherwise, the pool water would be far too hot for the next dog.

With all the rain, owners must bring their mosquito spray even during the day.

Our committee is in the process of planning our next two big fundraisers: Halloween Party with photos, and Santa photos with your dog, so stay tuned for those dates.

See you at the park!

WOOF! WOOF!

Bocce Buzz... That’s the Way We Roll!

CAROLE ROMAINE, INDEPENDENT

HOME OWNER

Although the official Bocce Club season has ended, you may find some enthusiastic year-round residents still at play on Tuesday afternoons from May through October.

The bocce court is adjacent to the northeast side of the parking lot at Burnt Store Marina Country Club.

During the season, play is from 3 to 5 p.m., followed by dinner at Linkside Café or another local restaurant.  Dinner is optional, and you do not have to be a member of Burnt Store Marina Country Club to play bocce. You will find an enthusiastic group of bocce

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.

players every Tuesday. Grab your lawn chair and join the fun.  There is also a nominal fee of $1, collected each week, during season, for maintenance of equipment and end of season party and prizes.

You are welcome to play bocce at your leisure. There is a guest set of bocce balls in the back of the golf cart barn. It is in the unlocked plastic container clearly marked for general use. Please be sure to return everything back to the cart barn when you are finished playing.

For more information, and to be added to the email contact list, please contact Barbie Newmin at extixeno@aol.com.

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.

GREAT EGRET IN MATING PLUMAGE

BY RICK READ

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!

A.N.A.’s Friends

Sixth Annual Fashion to a Tea

BARBARA BERMAN, GUARDIAN AD LITEM VOLUNTEER AND PRESIDENT OF A.N.A.’S FRIENDS

As a Guardian ad Litem volunteer in Charlotte County, I’ve seen firsthand the heartbreak and resilience of children in our local dependency court system. These children have been removed from their homes, through no fault of their own, due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and placed in temporary care while the court works toward a safe, permanent solution.

During these deeply uncertain times, Guardian ad Litem (GAL) volunteers step in as a consistent, caring presence. We advocate for each child’s best interests in court, in school, and in every area of their lives. Some of us, including neighbors right here in Burnt Store Marina, proudly serve in this role.

One of the most rewarding parts of my advocacy has been working closely with A.N.A.’s Friends. The organization partners with GAL Volunteers like me, as well as many others in the child welfare system, to help meet urgent and often overlooked needs. Whether it’s a bed to sleep in, tutoring to stay on track in school, or something as simple as a birthday gift, A.N.A.’s Friends steps in to make sure no child falls through the cracks.

I recently had the privilege of serving a young boy who was placed in foster care after experiencing significant trauma. He was falling behind in school, and feeling lost when summer approached. Thanks to A.N.A.’s Friends, he was able to attend a local summer camp where he finally got to just be a kid. The organization also provided tutoring that helped him catch up academically, and regain his confidence. That support changed the entire trajectory of his summer, and gave him a much-needed sense of stability and hope.

It’s stories like his that inspire me to invite you to this year’s Fashion to a Tea, the sixth annual celebration and signature fundraiser for A.N.A.’s Friends. On October 30, at the Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, 200 guests will gather for a beautiful plated luncheon, and enjoy a fun and heartfelt afternoon featuring a fashion show with Friends of A.N.A. as our models, a fabulous silent auction, and some delightful surprises.

Tickets are just $60 and your support will directly benefit children right here in Charlotte County who need it most.

To purchase tickets, visit https://www. anasfriends.org/special-events.

Or feel free to call me directly at 443632-4885 if you’d like to purchase tickets, volunteer, donate an auction item, or explore sponsorship opportunities.

Thank you for helping give these children the stability, dignity, and hope they so deeply deserve. I can’t wait to see you at Fashion to a Tea.

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, including 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.

Section 22 restrictions and applications are available for download at BSM22.org. Submit your ARC applications to your condo association, 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 have a pool allotment with your property, and want to install a pool, an ARC application is required. For all projects, go to the BSM22.org website to get your application.

The following applications were approved last month by the Section 22 HOA ARC:

• Michael Sabo, 3405 Sunset Key Circle, installing flood planks.

• Edith Graham, 4041 King Tarpon Drive, window replacement.

• Chandra Wobschall, 62 Big Pine Lane, replacing concrete pad.

• Ada G. Mann, 301 Islamorada Boulevard, #21b, window replacement.

• Michael & Sheila Rosin, 4061 King Tarpon Drive, lanai replacement.

• Michael & Sheila Rosin, 4061 King Tarpon Drive, exterior paint.

• Michael & Sheila Rosin, 4061 King Tarpon Drive, gutter replacement.

• Robert M. & Denise A. Clark, 2131 King Tarpon Drive, hurricane screen.

• Robert M. & Denise A. Clark, 2131 King Tarpon Drive, replace garage door.

• Ernie Perez, 3051 King Tarpon Drive, exterior paint.

• Kevin & Evelyn Kazacos, 3070 Big Bend Circle, pool cage replacement.

• 9 Speeding Warnings

○ 1 Resident

○ 8 Non-Residents

• 8 Stop Sign Warnings

○ 2 Residents

○ 6 Non-Residents

• 1 Other Infraction

○ Non-Valid License

• Lorraine Kurgan, 1102 Islamorada Boulevard, window replacements.

• Mary Ellen & Edward DiPonzio, 3420 Sunset Key Circle, Unit C, window replacements.

• Lynne Lovelace, 3250 Sugarloaf Key Road, hurricane shutters.

RULES OF THE ROAD

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.

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.

Peace River Audubon Society (PRAS)

RICK READ, BURNT STORE RESIDENT AND AUDUBON SOCIETY MEMBER

I’m sure most folks know the White Ibis. It seems that they are everywhere. Adults are all white except for the barely visible black wing tips. They have long, red-orange, decurved beaks. Juveniles are brown above and white below. They forage in groups, fly in flocks, and nest in colonies. They probe for insects and crustaceans in shallow wetlands or grassy areas, like yards and golf courses. They are non-migratory, so we see them year-round.

Happy birding!

SPECIAL PRESENTATION:

“Africa Birding Safari” Wednesday, September 3, at 2:15 p.m. Rick and Debbie Read will show images and videos and tell stories of this amazing 11-day tour. South Port Square, in the Town Hall building, 23053 Westchester Blvd., Port Charlotte.

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.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Every Saturday, at 8:30 a.m., Nature Walk at Audubon Pennington Park, 1153 Alton Rd., Port Charlotte.

• June through September, No scheduled walks or programs, other than Pennington Park, which will occur most Saturdays.

You do not have to be a member of PRAS to join us. Participation is free, and registration is not required. Visit the website at www. peaceriveraudubonsociety.org for all the details, or give me a call: Rick Read, BSM resident at 574-870-2695 for information or car-pooling.

Tight Lines…Blackfin Tuna, Macks, Bluefish, Kingfish and Bonito Are Schooling

JAY LEV, BURNT STORE ANGLERS

As the fall water temperatures begin to cool, large schools of fish begin to show up in the pass. They will be in around fifty feet of water. These fish are in search of smaller baitfish to enjoy and fatten up. Hopefully, storms and hurricanes will not change the movement patterns of these long-awaited schools of sport fish.

Most of the schooling fish will show signs of feeding just below the water surface. Some of these signs include birds diving for scraps just over the feeding school, very active water patches holding the moving fish, an occasional fish breaking water, and schools of white bait rapidly running for their lives just under the surface. All these conditions point to one good fishing technique and that is chumming the fish into a feeding frenzy.

Chumming is the process of throwing bait, either in chunks, or in the form of a soup like mix of ground up baitfish into the water in a specific interval. This process usually causes an oil like slick on the surface that looks like an oil road leading away from your boat with the current. This method of drawing the schools of game fish to your boat has

been used for years. Long-range tuna boats, leaving out of California ports, have been very successful in bringing large yellowfin, bluefin and bigeye tuna to the boat where the anglers onboard the boat used pieces of bait sent out with the chum. Party day boats, along our east coast, fish for large bluefish use this method as well.

Many anglers who have relocated from up north brought this method with them, and found “chumming” as it is called, worked well for grouper, blackfin tuna and yellow tail. The problem with this method has always been finding good baitfish to chum. Tackle shops began selling blocks of frozen ground up fish to meet angler’s needs for this fishing method. While this type of chum works well, it also tends to attract many sharks.

One charter member of the Burnt Store Anglers, George Folio, a lifetime fisherman from Maryland, suggested the use of spearing fish, or as they are known here in Florida as silversides. These baitfish measure about 3 inches long and have a silver line about a quarter inch wide running

down the entire length of the fish. During a teaching session of the Anglers Fishing School, George demonstrated the use of the silverside. Instead of running the hook through the lip of the baitfish, he would run his hook through two silversides. One hook would run through the lip, and a second bait would have the hook run through the body just above the tail. Using a small ⅛-ounce or a ¼-ounce split shot weight about a foot above the hook on the clear leader material that is attached to the running line of the reel, the bait would float out just below the water surface. The baitfish would spin and show odd movement in the water as the current caught the baitfish as it floated and sank out with the rest of the chum. This technique worked provided you could find the bait.

A few years ago, Publix offered a small freezer filled with frozen bait: squid, chum, sardines and bags of silver sides. For about $2.50 you could buy a small supply. You would need about 5 bags to have enough for a good chum line to be formed off the boat during a three-tofour-hour period. It is very important to thaw the silversides out before throwing them over the side into the bait chum line. Four or five baits thrown overboard at a time was just about right. Depending on the flow of the current, you would wait until you no longer saw the silverside, and

SILVERSIDE BAIT PACKS

then feed a few more into the chum line.

Blackfin tuna and bonito especially love to feed on that type of chum line. The fight is usually a strong run and attack, and get ready to have a fun fight. I might mention that a circle hook of size 4/0 to 6/0 attached to a five- or six-foot piece of 50-to-80-pound leader with a thin diameter is the key to a good terminal tackle rig. Send the bait away from the boat, releasing about a yard every so often until you get your bait about fifty feet away from the boat. If no bite happens, reel in the line and start the drop back over again until you get the hook up. You might be surprised to see the variety of fish that will be attracted to the chum and your bait.

Tight Lines

COLD CUCUMBER SOUP

INGREDIENTS

3 cucumbers

2 tablespoons butter

1 leek chopped

2 bay leaves

1 tablespoon flour

3 cups chicken broth

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup half & half Juice of ½ lemon

Chopped dill Sour cream

Recipe Box

JENNIFER LECLAIR, PELICAN WAY

It’s been hot…not just regular Southwest Florida hot, but really, really HOT. So, while talking with Linda Weiss, who, besides being a great cook, is a RE/MAX Realtor, Beacon editor, Pelican Way resident and good friend about how HOT it has been, she brought up this recipe for a cold cucumber soup that is a favorite of hers. It is delicious, and is sure to be a hit this time of year.

INSTRUCTIONS

Peel and thinly slice 2 cucumbers. Melt butter, add sliced cucumbers, leek and bay leaf. Cook slowly on low to medium heat until tender, but not brown. Discard bay leaves. Add flour and mix well. Add chicken broth and salt and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 20 to 30 minutes,

stirring occasionally. Puree mixture and chill soup in refrigerator for several hours, or overnight.

Peel, halve, and remove seeds from remaining cucumber, then coarsely grate. Add to soup with half and half, lemon juice and dill to taste. Serve in cups or mugs and top each serving with a dollop of sour cream.

Grammar Tips…Oxymorons

EDITORS OF THE BEACON

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two words with opposing meanings are used together for effect.

Interestingly, the word oxymoron is a compound of two words: (oxús - sharp, keen, pointed) and (mōrós - dull, stupid).

Translated literally, you get sharp-dull or keen-stupid. In other words, “oxymoron” is itself an oxymoron. The common plural form is oxymorons, but the actual plural is oxymora.

Some examples of oxymorons include:

• jumbo shrimp

• act naturally

• pretty ugly

• open secret

• random order

• original copy

• small crowd

• only choice

• loosely sealed

• conspicuous absence

• minor crisis

There are many more, and we’re sure you can up with them…just remember, in order to create an oxymoron, you must have at least two words in a phrase and those two words should have opposite meanings.

Gardener’s Wheelbarrow

MAGGIE HART, MARINERS PASS

If you have not already done so, prepare your September landscape for possible damaging high winds and torrential downpours from passing tropical storms. September can present a higher probability for hurricanes in SW Florida. Hurricane season peaks between August and October, with September 10 as the day you’re statistically most likely to find a tropical storm somewhere in the Atlantic basin. Harvey, Hugo, Ike, Irma, Maria, and our recent Ian were all September named storms.

Your gardening check list for September:

• This is your last chance to prune plants that are coldsensitive tropical plants (e.g., hibiscus, ixora, allamanda). This will allow enough time to pass so that new growth can harden off.

• Prune up to one-third of the foliage height from shrubs. If your goal is to

greatly reduce a shrub’s size, prune one-third now and in the spring if need be. And, you might also question if this shrub requires massive amounts of pruning on a regular basis – is it the best plant for this particular spot? Maybe a smaller plant is more appropriate in this spot.

• Pruning can be an overall reduction of height from the top (horizontal), or, it can be the removal of the tallest branches (vertical). Both will reduce height, but the latter method will encourage growth in the center, allow better air flow and give sun an opportunity to reach the interior. The result is a healthier plant with more even distribution, top to bottom, of foliage.

• Those unfamiliar with subtropical plants may decide to constantly shape their shrubs into hedges and boxes. Subtropical and tropical plants are poor subjects for this sort

of topiary treatment. It denies them their natural appearance, forces bushy growth only on the tips of the branches and encourages dieback, disease and pests, through the lack of sun and air circulation to the plant’s interior. The only plant that we grow locally, that would allow this sort of treatment, is the tiny-leafed Ilex schilling.

• You still have time to plant trees, shrubs and turf. Get them in as soon as possible to take advantage of the remaining summer rains. Select plants based on size and sun, shade and drought tolerance. Choose the right plant for the right place.

• Herbs (annual and perennial varieties) are another good bet at this time of year and can be grown inside the lanai cage, where they do well. Pot up sage, sweet marjoram, thyme, basil and rosemary for use in your meal preparation. Herbs need to be pruned frequently.

• If your lawn has dead spots from chinch bugs and you have already treated the area, now is the time to do some renovation. Remove the dead turf runners, smooth out the area and replenish it with topsoil, if the area is relatively small. For larger areas you can purchase plugs from a garden center, filling in with topsoil.

• Fungus and disease can become a problem under wet/ humid and high temperatures. Check your ornamental shrubs and turf for signs, and treat promptly and appropriately.

• Remember: through September 30, the Summer Fertilizer Ordinance is in effect. A summer blend of fertilizer free of nitrogen and phosphorous is available locally, and can be applied to lawns during this restricted period.

September Holidays and Adventures

MAGGIE HART, MARINERS PASS

This month has its beginning in summer, and, at the Autumn Equinox on September 22, it glides into fall. We’re still in hurricane season, and still very warm outside. Sorry to say, there are not many events or festivals in Florida this month. But there are a few to tickle your fancy, plus some days just to stop, honor, celebrate, ponder or chuckle in their silliness.

September 1: Labor Day is celebrated the first Monday in September. This day was formally designated a Federal holiday by U.S. Congress June 28, 1894, to honor the American worker. It was initiated in 1882 by the Central Labor Union in New York City.

September 4, 1609 - The island of Manhattan was discovered by English navigator Henry Hudson.

September 8: National Grandparents Day began in 1978 – President Jimmy Carter designated it to be the first Sunday after Labor Day. As its title implies, we should all take this time to honor our grandparents.

September 10: TV Dinner

Day. The TV Dinner was first introduced to consumers in the United States by C.A. Swanson & Sons in the early 1950s. This pre-packaged, frozen meal would not only provide you a whole dinner with the slight flick of an oven – it was also designed for ease of consumption while parked in front of a television screen. Take a look at Publix’s frozen food

aisle to appreciate all the TV Dinner has done for our food options.

September 13: Defy Superstition Day. And since today is also Friday, maybe you should celebrate by ignoring, maybe even eliminating the phobias you may have accumulated over the years.

September 13-14: The I like it Hot Festival, Largo. The largest gourmet spicy food show in Florida. Sample and purchase food from all around Florida, with music, entertainment and hot competitions. Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Largo Events Center. For information, go to www.Facebook.com/ ILikeitHotFestival.

September 16: American Legion Day. On this day in 1919, Congress granted the American Legion its charter. It was established to assist veterans returning after World War One. Since then, it has come to aid all veterans. Today there are over 14,000 posts, and 3 million members worldwide.

September 18, 1947 –The U.S. Air Force was established as a separate military service.

September 18: Rice Krispies Treats Day. Yes, really, a whole day!

September 20 - October 5: Oktoberfest. Don’t be fooled by the name…this festival of beer, oompa music and sausage starts in late September. The festival originated in Munich, Germany, and now it is celebrated in cities throughout the world. It began as a celebration of a royal wedding, but has been taken over by the beer. In Germany, the beverage must adhere to strict

German Beer Purity Laws (Reinheitsgebot) in order to be considered official Oktoberfest beer. Luckily for us, some of these tasty brews are available locally.

September 17: Smithsonian Day. This museum day is a one-day event in which participating museums and cultural institutions across the country provide free entry to anyone. To find locations of participating museums, go to www. smithsonianmag.com/ museumday.

September 22 - 24: Rosh Hashana begins at sundown today, and ends the evening of September 24. It is the celebration of the Jewish New Year. It is one of the holiest days of the year. This two-day festival marks the anniversary of human creation—and the special relationship between humans and God, the creator. Rosh Hashanah begins with the sounding of the shofar, the ram’s horn, proclaiming God as King of the Universe, just as a

trumpet would be sounded at a king’s coronation. This sound is also a call to repentance – to wake up and re-examine your commitment to God and to correct your ways.

September 24: National Punctuation Day. This day celebrates the comma, correct usage of quotation marks, periods, semicolons and other exotic ones very few use today. This is your day to dress up your writing, and amaze us editors with your knowledge of what a semicolon really does.

September 26 – October 5: Miami International Auto Show – Don’t just be a spectator – test drive all the latest models, all in one place. Check out Million Dollar Alley and see (not test-drive) the newest from Lamborghini, Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Ferrari Lotus and Bentley, and more. Don’t miss the Memory Lane exhibit, which features 20 classic cars from yesteryear, (continued on page 50)

and the Havana Classics, a trip back to Cuba’s 1950s cars and style. Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami Beach. For information, go to: miamiautoshows.com.

September 27: National Public Lands Day – Grab your friends to create a team and explore a great Florida state park. During this national day of celebration, National Public Lands across the country hold special events, from cleanups to scavenger hunts. For more information, go to: nps.gov/subjects/ npscelebrates/public-landsday.

September 26 - 27: Conch Life Scramble, Islamorada Key. A wacky, on-the-water golf tournament. Play nine holes of golf by boat. Kick-off Party on the 26th, and benefits Islamorada charities. For information, call 305-393-2725, or visit www.conchscramble.com.

September 29, 1789 –Congress created the United States Army, consisting of 1,000 enlisted men and officers.

BSM22.ORG - BURNT STORE MARINA WEBSITE HELP

To be sure that you are up to date on all that is happening in the Burnt Store Marina community, you need to be up-to-date on the use of our website.

Our website lists your Section 22 Board of Directors and how to contact them. In addition, there is news about your amenities, and document and forms. And, you can check out clubs and organizations, and the vendors who service our community.

When you log in to the “residents’ eyes only” section, you will find great contact information for the Certified Response Team (CERT), and what to do in case of emergency. You will also be able to access Section 22 financials, your account information, and the Resident Directory.

To be sure YOUR contact information is up-to-date, you need to log in, or follow directions to register. Then go to Your Profile > Profile Settings. There, you can update your telephone and email information. Then, to OPT IN to the online Resident Directory, turn the BLUE toggles to GRAY.

If you did not receive the current digital issue of the BSM Beacon, you need to go to https://bsmbeacon. seabreezecommunications.com/about/. Once there, you can input your information to subscribe, and receive future emailed copies. Please note: by contract with PGI Section 22 HOA, your email will not be used in any other way by Seabreeze Communications.

If you are having problems logging onto the resident section of our website BSM22.org, OR, are not receiving Alliant Management email blasts, please contact Alliant Property Management at apmsupport@alliantproperty.com, or call 239-454-1101.

Plant of the Month… The Royal

Poinciana

MAGGIE HART, MARINERS PASS

Although this summer’s royal poincianas failed to fill with beautiful red blossoms, you probably remember seeing them in past summers…

Native to Madagascar, royal poinciana (Delonix regia), is also called “flamboyant” or “flame tree.” It provides dappled shade in summer, with wide, spreading branches and brilliantly-colored flowers. Many people consider this to be one of the most beautiful trees in the world. Snowbirds almost always miss their spectacular flower display, since their flowers don’t come out until May.

This tree will grow 20 to 40 feet tall, and requires a level of maintenance that makes it less desirable to some homeowners. While adored for the beautiful flowers, the large, bean-like pods that follow can become a nuisance. These 2-inch by 18inch pods persist through winter and drop off in the spring, which can be annoying landscape litter for some gardeners. Also, royal poinciana branches are susceptible to breakage, particularly in high winds.

It should be planted in a large expanse of lawn with no garden bed beneath, since the poinciana’s root system sits on top of the ground, rather than deeply into it. This

means it will compete with (and win out over) nearby plants for water and nutrients. You should plant it at least 20 feet (more would be even better) from your house to accommodate the broad-spreading canopy of this tree, and at least 12 to 15 feet from drives and walkways so that roots don’t eventually become a problem. And…be aware that grass will grow poorly beneath your tree. Also…check with your Homeowners Association and Section 22 ARC committee before planting! They are sometimes on the “Do Not Plant” list.

Here in Burnt Store Marina, you can see fine examples of royal poincianas along Cape Cole Boulevard, between Islamorada Boulevard and Matecumbe Key Road, and, also on the golf course, along the golf cart path at Heron 4 behind Cobia Cay Villas.