Welcome to The Meadows Connection
MESSAGE FROM JOYCE TILDEN, BSM BOARD MEMBER AND COMMUNICATION LIAISON
Extending a warm welcome and inviting you to another issue of the Meadows Connection newsletter. We’re excited to share the latest updates with our Meadows community.
Burnt Store Meadows Property Owners Association, in collaboration with our publisher, Seabreeze Communications, has a dedicated website for The Meadows Connection monthly newsletter.
FEATURES OF THE MEADOWS CONNECTION WEBSITE
The new website offers a redesigned version of the newsletter, access to individual articles, an event board, and additional resources. Readers can enjoy a digital flip book experience with a refreshed magazine layout that allows you to turn pages, click on embedded links, and use features such as zooming in or switching to full screen mode. For those who prefer an article-based format, the website provides all current content organized on individual pages for easy reading.
NAVIGATION AND RESOURCES
The top menu bar includes convenient access to previous issues, a collection of articles, an Event Board highlighting activities and happenings in and around Burnt Store Meadows, and a Vendor Page featuring local service providers. You may visit the new website to view or download the digital edition, or you can find a PDF version available on our BSM website under Meadows Connection Newsletter | Burnt Store Meadows.
YOUR PARTICIPATION
We hope you enjoy exploring this newly developed website. We encourage you to share your suggestions for articles or topics you would like to see featured in future editions of The Meadows Connection.
Burnt Store Meadows Property Owners Association Website
JOYCE TILDEN, BSMPOA DIRECTOR COMMUNICATIONS AND WEBSITE ADMINISTRATOR
Keeping you informed and up to date on what’s happening in the Meadows.
The www.bsmpoa.com website makes it quick and easy to access and electronically complete forms required for new construction, additions, and modifications to your existing residence. Also, requests for overnight parking permits can be completed online.
As a resident and/or property owner in the Burnt Store Meadows Community, you will have access to “Owner Only” documents and information. In order to access those documents and sections on the website you must register and be authorized as a property owner.
Registration is simple!
The first time you log in to www. bsmpoa.com simply select the Register option in the upper right corner of the screen.
On the Register page you will be asked to enter the following information:
• Are you a Homeowner, Condo Owner, Lot Owner, etc.
• Name, email, cell phone*, address, and create a password for your account.
* If you don’t have a cell phone, or prefer to use another number, you can change this on your Member Profile once your account is approved.
Once you have entered the appropriate information and select Register at the bottom of the page it takes you to the next page. There you are asked to complete your personal Member
Settings. This is where you may select your personal preferences on communications, e.g., receiving emails or text messages from the association for items such as the Newsletter. Member Settings is where you can update and change your password and specify your privacy.
We hope you enjoy the website. Please feel free to forward comments or suggestions to the Star Management or the webmaster via the Contact Page on the website.
BURNT STORE MEADOWS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President – Anthony Nutt
Vice
President
– Jay Gile
Secretary – Adele Higgins
Treasurer – Joyce Tilden
Director at Large – Pat Hurd
The Board of Directors meets on the 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the conference room at Star Hospitality Office located at 26530 Mallard Way, Punta Gorda.
(941) 575-6764
The May meeting will be held on May 18th
Residents are welcome to join the meeting in person or via Zoom. The zoom link is listed on the website for registered members - Zoom Link to Monthly Board Mtg | Burnt Store Meadows
A Note From Your POA Board President: Keeping Our Community Beautiful
Dear Neighbors,
As we welcome the warmer months, I am reaching out from the president’s desk to invite your partnership in keeping our neighborhood clean, safe, and beautiful. Our community thrives when we all work together, and every effort contributes to the place we proudly call home.
BEAUTIFICATION AND PET RESPONSIBILITIES
Recently, we received complaints regarding uncollected dog waste in common areas and on neighbors’ lawns. This issue is unsightly, creates unpleasant odors, and poses health hazards. Please be responsible pet owners— immediately pick up after your pets and dispose of the waste properly in your own trash bins. A friendly reminder: all pets must be on a leash when in common areas for everyone’s safety and comfort.
HURRICANE SEASON PREPAREDNESS
As the upcoming hurricane season approaches, please consider these important steps to be prepared:
Secure outdoor items: Secure lawn furniture, potted plants, and decorations that could become projectiles in high winds.
Do not leave dogs outside alone: During high winds or storm warnings, please ensure your pets are not left outside unattended, as fences may blow down.
Plan ahead: If an evacuation is ordered, remember that any home unsafe for people is also unsafe for pets.
Let’s continue to keep our community clean and prepared for storm season. Thank you to everyone who takes pride in our neighborhood and for your ongoing cooperation.
COMMUNITY FAMILY FUN DAY & CAR SHOW: A WONDERFUL SUCCESS!
We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this event special and successful. Your participation and enthusiasm are what make our community vibrant and welcoming.
To the car enthusiasts: Your rides were incredible!
To the families: Thank you for bringing so much fun and joy!
To the vendors: We appreciate your support!
To the volunteers: You are the heart of our events!
To the planners: Your efforts made this day a huge success!
After the overwhelming success and positive response to this year’s
Family Fun Day & Car Show, we are excited to announce plans to bring this annual event back next year. We were able to come in several thousand dollars under budget and look forward to doing even better next year, applying lessons learned.
We warmly invite residents to join in planning next year’s event, volunteer, or share suggestions. If you’d like to help or have ideas, please reach out to any of our board members.
Sincerely,
Dr. Anthony Nutt Board President
Thank you all for your support and for the opportunity to serve our wonderful neighborhood.
“I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day. When it’s cold outside, I’ve got the month of May.”
– Smokey Robinson
Car Show & Family Fun Day
The inaugural Car Show & Family Fun Day was held for the first time at the Meadows, achieving notable success. The event attracted significant attendance, with over forty vehicles participating in the car show and fifteen vendors presenting a wide array of products and services. Vendor offerings encompassed jewelry, household items, pet treats, food, and various services such as insurance and YMCA programs.
Both families and automobile enthusiasts benefited from an engaging environment characterized by music, laughter, and a strong sense of community. The diversity of vehicles presented catered to a range of interests, displaying both classic and contemporary models. Children participated in organized activities and games, contributing to an inclusive experience for attendees of all ages.
The event’s appeal was further enhanced through generous support. A local car detailing business provided complimentary detailing services as an additional prize, and a resident donated $200 toward cash awards. These contributions added value to participant prizes and increased engagement during the event.
The Car Show & Family Fun Day not only highlighted automotive achievement but also reinforced community relationships. Positive feedback from attendees and participants suggests considerable promise for the future of this annual occasion.
CORN HOLE TOURNAMENT RECAP
The Family Fun Day corn hole tournament consisted of eight teams—two walk-ups and six pre-registered participants. The double elimination format ensured that each team enjoyed multiple opportunities for competition.
Spectators offered enthusiastic encouragement, and the friendly rivalry elevated the tournament to one of the day’s highlights. The spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship prevailed throughout, fostering connections among neighbors and creating enduring memories.
Participating Teams
- Dodie Wise (7529 Paspalum) and Pablo Gutierrez (7513 Paspalum)
- Fay Booker / David Pizza (243 Gold Tree)
- Jan and Dick Laube (237 Gold Tree)
- Dave Pyburn and his friend Jimmy (7500 Ligustrum)
- Dan Frisbie, Carter Pothier (7249 Allamanda)
- Sue Frisbie, Dylan Desruisseaux (7249 Allamanda)
- Mary and Becca Vollmer (7555 Carambola)
- Gracie and Tony Rieder (7555 Carambola)
continued >
In the final round, Team 4 (Dave and Jimmy) competed against Team 7 (Mary and Becca). Having previously lost to Team 4, Team 7 had to win two consecutive games to secure the championship. They prevailed in the initial game, resulting in a decisive final match. Ultimately, Team 4 claimed victory, receiving a $100 Carmelo’s gift card. Team 7 earned second place and a $50 Wawa gift card, while Team 8 received third place honors accompanied by a $20 Publix gift card.
THANK YOU!
Appreciation is extended to all volunteers and participants whose involvement contributed to the overall success of the day’s events.
CORN HOLE
TEAMS - LEFT TO RIGHT TEAMS 8, 7, AND 4
ACTION DURING A MATCH BETWEEN TEAM 2 AND TEAM 3
WINNING
and Anniversaries
Happy Birthday May!
May Holidays and Special Observances
In May 2026, there are several significant holidays and observances. These occasions reflect a mix of family, cultural, and community celebrations.
MAJOR HOLIDAYS
• Mother’s Day: This day honors mothers and motherhood. It is celebrated on the second Sunday in May, which falls on May 10, 2026.
• Memorial Day: Observed on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor those who have died in military service. In 2026, Memorial Day will be observed on May 25.
• Kentucky Derby: Known as “the greatest two minutes in sports,” the Kentucky Derby is held on the first Saturday in May. In 2026, it takes place on May 2.
• Cinco de Mayo: This cultural celebration commemorates the Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla. Cinco de Mayo is observed on May 5, 2026.
SPECIAL OBSERVANCES
• Teacher Appreciation Week: This weeklong observance in May recognizes the contributions of educators. There is no specific date for Teacher Appreciation Week in 2026.
These holidays and observances in May provide opportunities for family gatherings, cultural celebrations, and community appreciation.
What’s Happening in Punta Gorda this Month
ONGOING - PUNTA GORDA FARMER’S MARKETS
WEEKLY WEDNESDAY MARKET
PUNTA GORDA ISLES CIVIC ASSOCIATION
2001 Shreve St., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Indoor / Outdoor Market - Open to the Public 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Plants ~ Fresh food Items ~ Arts and Crafts ~ Businesses and Services ~ Used and/or Thrift Items ~ Nonprofit Organizations ~ Food Trucks ~ And More
SATURDAY DOWNTOWN PUNTA GORDA FARMER’S MARKET
Your local Farmer’s Market with produce, seafood, meat, ethnic cuisine, arts, crafts, live music, working artists and much more.
Featuring over 70 vendors. Located in beautiful downtown Punta Gorda. Every Saturday, rain or shine (unless it falls on Christmas Day, an active Hurricane Warning day or other unforeseen event).
May to September – 8 a.m. – 12 noon October to April – 8 a.m. -1 p.m.
227 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
HISTORY PARK SUNDAY MARKET
Visit Punta Gorda’s only weekly Artisans Market, held every Sunday in the History Park. You will discover local artists selling their creations, as well as our resident artists in the History Park Artisan Village, where the Peace River Woodturners, SWFL Fiber Arts Guild, SWFL Potters Guild, and SWFL Glass Fusers Foundation each work out of one of our historic buildings. Their buildings are open to the public during market hours on Sunday.
In addition to the artisans, the Sunday market vendors include local providers of farm-fresh produce and eggs, local honey, home-baked artisan breads, goat cheese, and other goodies. Check out the wonderful vendors! History Park Sunday Market Sundays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
May in Your Southwest Florida Yard and Garden
WHAT TO PLANT
Annuals/Perennials/Wildflowers: Plants that can take summer heat include coleus, salvia, torenia, wax begonia, vinca, crossandra, ornamental pepper.
• Annuals: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/annuals
• Perennials: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/perennials
• Florida Wildflower Foundation: https://www.flawildflowers.org/
Herbs: Plant heat-loving herbs, including basil, Mexican tarragon, ginger, summer savory, and rosemary.
• Herbs: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/herbs
Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, boniato, hot peppers, and tropical “spinach” such as Sisso, Malabar, and New Zealand can be planted now.
• Vegetable Gardening in Florida: https://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/topics/vegetable_gardening
WHAT TO DO
Pests: Watch for thrips, scale, and mites on ornamental plants because they become more active in warm weather.
• Lawn and Garden Care: Pest Management: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ topics/lawn-gardenpest-management
CANNA CREDIT: UF/IFAS
Gardenias and ixora: Distinguish between the normal yellowing of older leaves and the yellowing of new growth, which usually indicates a micronutrient deficiency. Cir1098/EP338: Gardenias at a Glance: https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ep338
Oleanders: Inspect chewed or ragged leaves for oleander caterpillars at work.
• Oleander Pest Management: https://edis.ifas. ufl.edu/topics/oleander-pest-management
Lawns: Mow at the recommended height; mowing too short encourages weeds. Watch for damage from chinch bugs in St. Augustine grass and begin scouting for newly hatched mole crickets in Bahia grass lawns. Prevent or minimize disease by following proper cultural practices when caring for lawns.
• Turfgrass Diseases: https://edis.ifas.ufl. edu/topics/turfgrass-diseases
• Insect Management in Your Florida Lawn: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/insect_ management_in_your_florida_lawn
Tomatoes: Watch for pests, disease, and nutritional disorders on tomato plants.
• Home Tomato Gardening: https://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/topics/tomato-gardening
Trees: Prepare for hurricane season by checking trees for damaged or weak branches and pruning if needed. Hire an ISA-certified arborist.
• International Society of Arboriculture: International Society of Arboriculture > For the Public (isa-arbor.com)
• Lawn and Garden Care: Pruning: https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn-and-gardencare-pruning
Unique Architectural Attractions Near Burnt Store Meadows
Solomon’s Castle - 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona, FL www.solomonscastle.com
Located about one hour from Burnt Store Meadows, Solomon’s Castle is a remarkable and unexpected sight nestled in rural Central Florida.
Artist Howard Solomon built the castle almost entirely by hand, using recycled aluminum to give it a distinctive silvery shine. The structure features quirky towers, whimsical artwork, and a fairytale silhouette, creating an atmosphere that feels delightfully out of place. Solomon’s Castle is considered one of the strangest and most unique architectural landmarks in Florida.
Open October 2 - August 1, Tuesdays through Sundays, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed Mondays and during the months of August & September
Wonder House — 1075 Mann Rd, Bartow, FL
Wonder House Bartow Historic Tours
Wonder House is situated approximately one and a half hours from Burnt Store Meadows in the small town of Bartow.
Recognized as a hidden gem in Florida, Wonder House is a fascinating destination that reopened in 2018 after being closed to the public for several years. It is currently a private residence, but visitors can book tours to explore its unusual and surprising interior. Those seeking an interesting day trip will find Wonder House unforgettable.
Built in 1925 without any blueprints, Wonder House stands out as a unique historical residence. While it appears to be a typical 1920s home from the outside, the interior is filled with slanted floors, tilted
rooms, and gravity-defying illusions, giving the house a funhouse-like quality. Once abandoned and nearly lost, it has been restored and now serves as one of Florida’s most unusual buildings, highlighting the state’s quirky architectural history.
For many decades, the Wonder House operated as a tourist attraction with minimal furniture, often just a few rocking chairs on the porch.
The home was made even more distinctive by its owner, Shuck, who collected curiosities. Throughout the house, visitors would encounter snakes preserved in jars, a coffin placed in the center of the parlor, and a taxidermy collection of various Florida birds.
Recipe of the Month CINCO DE MAYO CHICKEN TACOS
INGREDIENTS
Old El Paso Crunchy Taco Kit
1 pound or slightly over of raw chicken tenders
1/2 head of green leaf lettuce shredded
1 small, sweet onion chopped
1 tomato chopped
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper
1 avocado from Mexico
8 ounces of grated sharp cheddar
1/4 cup of sour cream
3/4 cup of water
Serves 4
Yummy take on the standard beef taco with a few simple changes to the box recipe!
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Chop lettuce and tomato for taco toppings.
2. Peel and remove seed from avocado. Chop for condiment.
3. Chop 1 small onion.
4. Chop the chicken strips into small pieces.
5. Sauté the onion in 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium low skillet for a couple of minutes.
6. Add the chicken, salt and pepper.
7. Continue to cook until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Add the packet of taco seasoning from the kit and 3/4 cup of water.
9. Simmer for 10 minutes.
10. While simmering, bake the shells according to the box instructions.
11. While the above is cooking, prepare the sauce.
12. Combine 1/4 cup of sour cream and the sauce packet to make the mixed sauce.
13. Built your taco with provided condiments! Enjoy!
NOTES
1. Sour cream can be difficult to spread on a taco. Mixing the sour cream and the taco sauce makes it spread smoothly! You may want to offer additional plain taco sauce for those that do not care for sour cream.
Calling All Pet Owners!
Tell us about your pet(s)! Every month we will feature one family’s pet(s) in an article in Meadows Connection. All you must do is write between 200 to 600 words about your much-loved dog, cat, or other animal and include a couple of high resolution pictures. Some ideas to show off your beloved pet include – how you named him/her;
a description of his/her looks; favorite activities and toys; what makes him/her special to you, or whatever else you’d like to share with readers. This is limited to Burnt Store Meadows owners and residents.
Your submission doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece; we will edit and format it for the monthly newsletter. Have fun writing about your pet and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connections.
Writers Wanted!!!
To make the Meadows Connection interesting and readable to our residents, we invite you to share your stories, experiences, and perspectives. We welcome articles about books, travel, pets, sports, TV and movies, Tech, and/or content that will get our community talking and sharing. Just avoid topics such as politics and religion in keeping with our policy to avoid controversy.
Please limit your words to between 200 to 600 words and feel free to include a couple of jpeg photos with high resolution. We’ll be happy to give you a byline!
Have fun writing and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connection.
Being a Good Pet Owner and Neighbor!
REMINDER
Being a good neighbor and animal owner means picking up after your dog. Also, while our deed restrictions do not specifically state your animal must be leashed, it does state the animal must always be under the owner’s control. Not having the animal leashed could constitute a nuisance and that is a violation of our deed restrictions.
Tell us about your pet(s)! We would like to feature one family’s pet(s) in an article in the Connection. All you need to do is write between 200 – 600 words about your much-loved dog, cat, or other animal and include a couple of high resolution pictures. Some ideas to show off your beloved pet include – how you named him/her; a description of his/her looks; favorite activities and toys; what makes him/her special to you, or whatever else you’d like to share with readers. This is limited to Burnt Store Meadows owners and residents.
Your submission doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece; we will edit and format it for the monthly newsletter. Have fun writing about your pet and send to joyce.tilden.bsmpoa@gmail.com for submission in the Meadows Connection.
