Meadows Connection
CHARLOTTE HARBOR
PRESERVE STATE PARK (CHEC) ALLIGATOR CREEK PRESERVE
JOYCE TILDEN, BSM BOARD MEMBER AND COMMUNICATION LIAISON
Welcome to the October issue of all the
HIGHEST PRICES PAID
BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES
On the new website, you’ll find a digital flip book reader with a newly designed magazine. You can flip page by page, click on links, and, at the bottom right-hand corner, zoom in or go full screen. If you prefer to read in an article format, scroll down to read all this month’s content on individual pages. On the top menu bar, you’ll find a spot for previous issues, articles, an Event Board for things going on in and around Burnt Store Meadows, as well as a Vendor Page where you can find local service providers. You can either go directly to the new website to review/
download the new digital version or review a PDF version on our BSM website at Meadows Connection Newsletter | Burnt Store Meadows. We hope you enjoy this newly developed site.
Please feel free to suggest articles or areas of interest you would like to see in future edition of The Meadows Connection
BURNT STORE MEADOWS
PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
2025 – 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President – Melissa Lockhart
Vice President – Anthony Nutt
Secretary – Adele Higgins
Treasurer – Joyce Tilden
Director at Large – Jay Giles
The Board of Directors meets on the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the conference room at Star Hospitality Office located at 26530 Mallard Way, Punta Gorda.
The October meeting will be held on October 20.
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
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
www.seabreezecommunications.com
Seabreeze Communications, Inc. does not endorse any advertising as it relates to the communities. Advertising is not screened by Seabreeze Communications, Inc.
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.
Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park (CHEC) Alligator Creek Preserve
The Alligator Creek Preserve was established in 1987. It is located within the 45,000+ acre Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park. CHEC is located on property owned by the State of Florida and the Center’s portion is leased to the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, Inc. for environmental, educational, and recreational activities. The Alligator Creek Preserve includes four (4+) miles of nature trails. Volunteers offer interpretive trail walks to the public, free of charge, during “season.”
You can scan QR codes and listen to audio tours as you walk. Visit the butterfly and wildflowers gardens, watch the birds from the bird blind; see (at their leisure!) the adult and baby alligators in the alligator pond. You might see vultures, up close and personal, or an eagle in a tree. Or wild hogs off in the distance. Perhaps a bobcat sashaying down a little-used service road. And more …
THE CANIFF WELCOME CENTER
The Caniff Welcome Center, open to the public from October – April, is located at the very end of the driveway boardwalk. A unique all-wood building on “stilts,” its main architectural attraction is a “cupola” from which a large hand-carved wood
mobile depicting birds and sea life hangs. Outside, there is a wrap-around deck which looks out over an upland eco-system. Inside once again, you will find small live animals such as Henry, the ball python; Izra, the skink; Isak, the red rat snake; Daisy, the Russian tortoise; Elon, the Razorback Musk turtle; and Tyrus, the Stinkpot Common Musk turtle. There are also display cases of interesting shells, bone and ancient tool artifacts. Also on display, you can see and read about some of the birds and animals you might find at the Alligator Creek location. Be sure to visit during “season”!
BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY
CHEC’s Butterfly Sanctuary is the largest walk-in butterfly enclosure in Charlotte County, and for good reason. This Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation of our imperiled butterfly friends. As habitat
decreases with urbanization and development, it is necessary to safeguard these native species through “raise and release” programs that bolster local populations. The Sanctuary allows guests to engage in an interactive setting, educating visitors about the plight of the pollinators and teaching them about how the pollinators positively affect our community.
Guests who wish to contribute to these conservation efforts can volunteer at the Sanctuary, donate funds to support our program, or plant native nectar and host plants to expand their habitat.
CHEC will feature a native plant nursery soon, so be on the lookout for “CHEC’s Florida Friendly Gardens.” Please visit the park; nature misses you!
THE ROSE ISAKSEN GIFT SHOP
This special gift shop was made possible by the late Rose Isaksen, who, with her husband Bob, gave tirelessly of their time and resources for over 25 years, as benefactors extraordinaire. Located in the Caniff Welcome Center, it is full of unique southwest Florida gifts, including handcrafted items from local artists. The gift shop is open from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday from midOctober – April.
Some of the special items for sale include: A variety of informational books and guides on Florida wildlife. Fresh, raw local honey – very popular. Children’s gifts include stuffed animals, books, T-shirts, and other toys. Hand-carved wood walking sticks, beautifully crafted, from birch, pine, ash, cherry, beech, mangrove, carrot, and melaleuca trees from both Florida and New Hampshire. Each walking stick is zip code inscribed with the origin of the tree wood, along with the wood type and Charlotte Harbor name – made with love by the late, great Bob Isaksen.
Handmade birdhouses, butterfly houses and bat houses made of recycled wood, also by Bob Isaksen. Hand-made ceramics and small wallets. Floridathemed T-shirts of various sizes … youth to adult. Beautiful CHEC coffee mugs, ball caps and totes, and other interesting environmentally themed items.
Friends of CHEC members receive 10% off on CHEC items sold here. You must show your membership card to receive the discount.
ALLIGATOR DOCK
Our iconic Alligator Dock was recently re-built from scratch, and the improvements are incredible. The addition of a metal roof has made this location a comfortable oasis, noticeably cooler in the shade
and protected from afternoon rain clouds. Guests can comfortably enjoy the breeze off the pond as they look out across the Cattails at the lounging alligators. There are two commercial grade view finders to help guests enjoy the scenery and they are coin-free.
RON MILLS BIRD BLIND
The Ron Mills Bird Blind was recently renovated and like its namesake, this building loves birds. Enjoy a relaxing seat as you observe our native birds lighting up the natural environment with their array of songs and color. There are books and pamphlets that will satisfy any birder, from novice to expert, and a sightings board for you to log your daily finds. Binoculars await under the breeze of the bird blind’s ceiling fan and canopied setting. The only thing missing – is you.
Neighborhood Fall Festival Returns to Punta Gorda
The City of Punta Gorda’s second annual Neighborhood Fall Festival is set for October 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library, 401 Shreve St. The Fall Festival is a free, family-friendly event with food, games, trick-ortreating, a costume contest, and more.
The festival allows the city to co-host with different organizations and highlight all the great neighborhoods within Punta Gorda. Last
year the festival was rescued from the wreckage of Hurricanes Helene and Milton with help from the Punta Gorda YMCA, Cooper Street Rec Center, and dozens of local businesses and nonprofits to provide our Harborside Hometown with a much-needed moment of joy and connection. Over 200 residents came together to enjoy free food, trick or treating, games, a costume contest, and more.
Mark your calendars for a wicked good time celebrating community with your neighbors and friends.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held every October, is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves to educate the public about breast cancer, including its signs, symptoms, and the importance of early detection. It aims to improve access to screening and treatment, ultimately reducing mortality rates associated with the disease. The campaign also highlights the need for ongoing research and support for patients and survivors.
World Mental Health Day (October 10) is an international day for global mental health education, awareness, and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries. This day, each October, thousands of supporters come
to celebrate this annual awareness program to bring attention to mental illness and its major effects on people’s lives worldwide. In addition, this day provides an opportunity for mental health professionals to discuss and shed light on their work, making mental health a priority worldwide.
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. to noon October to April – 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
October in Your Florida Yard
WHAT TO PLANT
Annuals/Perennials/Wildflowers: Even though temperatures are still warm, begin planting for the cooler months ahead. Impatiens, alyssum, and dianthus are good choices for the fall/winter garden. See:
▪ Annuals: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/annuals
▪ Perennials: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/perennials
▪ Florida Wildflower Foundation: https://www.flawildflowers.org/
Herbs: A wide range of herbs can be planted from seed or transplants this month. Some to try are dill, fennel, parsley, and cilantro. See
▪ Herbs: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/herbs
Vegetables: Easy crops that can be grown now include beans, broccoli, carrots, collards, lettuce, green onions, peppers, radishes, spinach, and tomatoes. See
▪ Vegetable Gardening in Florida: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/vegetable_gardening
WHAT TO DO
Frangipani/Plumeria Rust: This disease causes yellow spots and premature leaf drop but does not affect the longterm health of the plant. Removing, raking, and disposing of infected leaves may slow the infection.
Lawns: Control winter weeds in lawns before they appear. Preemergence herbicides must be applied at the right time to be effective. Apply when nighttime temperatures are 55°F to 60°F for 4 to 5 days. Mow lawn grass
at the recommended height; mowing too short encourages weeds and stresses the turf. See
▪ Lawn and Garden Care: Weed Management: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn-gardenweed-management
Ornamental trees and shrubs: Underperforming plants might need fertilizer. This is the last month of the year to fertilize shrubs and trees. Controlled-release fertilizer provides nutrients over a longer period. See
▪ Lawn & Garden Care: Fertilization: https://edis. ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn-garden-fertilization
Lawn fertilization: Fertilize lawns if needed and permitted by local ordinances. See
▪ Lawn & Garden Care: Fertilization: https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/lawn-gardenfertilization
▪ Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program Fertilizer Ordinances App: https://ffl.ifas.ufl. edu/resources/apps/fertilizer-ordinances/
Strawberries: Prepare beds and set strawberry plants this month. Strawberries also make a colorful and tasty container planting. Either way, water daily until plants are established. See
▪ HS1154/HS403: Growing Strawberries in the Florida Home Garden: https://edis.ifas. ufl.edu/publication/HS403
Palms: Palms have unique nutritional needs. Select a fertilizer that contains controlled-release nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium. See
▪ Palm Care: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/ palm-care
Oleanders: Control oleander caterpillars by pruning off infested leaves or spraying with BT (Bacillus thuringiensis). See
▪ Oleander Pest Management: https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/oleander-pestmanagement
MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS CAN HELP
Trained master gardener volunteers are available to help people with gardening and landscape problems at their office in the Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd., Port Charlotte. The office is staffed with University of Florida, IFAS trained master gardener volunteers from 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. For more information, visit them in person, call (941) 764-4340 or email Master.Gardener@charlottecountyfl.gov. STRAWBERRIES. UF/IFAS
New Homes Along The Burnt Store Road Corridor
Many Punta Gorda area residents are asking the Charlotte County Commissioners, “Why have you approved several thousand new homes to be built along Burnt Store Road??” Not to mention big developments on Tuckers Grade, Jones Loop Road, and in Tropical Gulf Acres. Good question!!
During the Covid pandemic from 2020 through 2022, we had an unprecedented home buying frenzy in SW Florida (I hope you read my article in the June issue of this publication ... it is available online).
Big real estate development companies and huge national builders presumed that there is demand for thousands of residential homes in Punta Gorda, and they bought huge tracts of agriculture-zoned properties (many former citrus groves) and received county permits to build thousands of new homes here.
There are two philosophies that favor such radical residential expansion: 1) the authorities should not restrict landowners’ right to sell their property, nor should they restrict the buyer from the right to develop said property into residences; 2) the county stands to gain millions of dollars in revenue from these future homeowners.
However, one must question whether the county authorities have considered such vital issues as freshwater availability, wastewater sewer handling capacity, stormwater drainage, and density regulations for emergency evacuations??
The Burnt Store Road Coalition (www. bsccfl.com) was created a few years ago consisting of concerned citizens who are demanding answers to these questions, a very noble quest. Hopefully it is not too late to change any of this messy situation. I encourage all civic-minding people to join the Burnt Store Coalition and the Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council (www.swfrpc.org ) to stay informed and influence the political powers that control these important matters.
Thanks!
Rick Stewart, Realtor
What’s Cooking Roasted Acorn Squash and Black Bean Salad
Just because summer is over doesn’t mean that fresh salads are off the table. Try this lovely, fall-inspired Roasted Acorn Squash and Black Bean Salad.
INGREDIENTS
Squash:
1 acorn squash, peeled and cubed
2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon salt
Salad:
1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
3 handfuls of spinach
½ cup cooked black beans, drained, and rinsed if canned
2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
INSTRUCTIONS
For the squash: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the squash on a baking sheet and toss with oil and salt. Roast for 25 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for 10 minutes.
For the salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, spinach, beans, onion, and cheese. Add the cooled squash.
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and seasoning. Pour vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Florida International Air Show
PUNTA GORDA, FL
NOVEMBER 1 AND 2
GATES OPEN AT 9 A.M.
The skies over Southwest Florida will roar to life this fall as the Florida International Air Show returns to Punta Gorda Airport on November 1 and 2, with an exhilarating lineup headlined by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the F-16 Viper Demo Team.
This year’s show features a dynamic mix of aerial precision, vintage power, and heart-pounding stunts with performers including Warbird Thunder, Aarron Deliu, Doug Litton, and the thrilling parachute team The Chuters.
New for 2025, the Air Show proudly introduces two family-friendly attractions: The Innovators STEM Pavilion – a hands-on zone to engage students and families with science, tech, and aviation.
The Family Aviation Experience – a fun, interactive area designed to inspire future aviators and entertain all ages.
Saturday, February 7, 2026
is Friday, October 31.
Please be watchful of little ghosts and goblins parading around the Meadows that evening.
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.