The 1921 Tampa Bay Hurricane, also known as the “Storm of 1921,” was a powerful hurricane that hit the Tampa Bay area in Florida in October 1921. The storm caused widespread damage, including a storm surge that flooded much of the area around the bay and caused significant property damage. The storm is estimated to have caused around $10 million in damage, which was a considerable amount at the time, and resulted in the deaths of around 8 people. Despite the storm’s severity, it did not receive an official name, as was common with tropical storms and hurricanes at the time.
Charlotte Harbor, a fishing paradise!
Punta Gorda Isles, Florida is a fisherman’s paradise. Located near the Gulf of Mexico, this coastal neighborhood offers a diverse range of fish species that can be caught throughout the year. As the months change, so do the types of fish that can be found in the waters surrounding Punta Gorda.
In January, anglers can expect to find sheepshead, redfish, and black drum. These species are known for their tough exterior and can be caught by using live or dead bait. Sheepshead, in particular, are a favorite among local fishermen as they are known for their delicate white meat. They can be caught around the docks and piers in the harbor, making them a popular target for those who like to fish from shore.
February brings in the start of snook season. Snook, also known as the “linesider,” is a popular game fish in Florida and is highly sought after by both recreational and commercial fishermen. They are known for their hard fighting and acrobatic jumps, making them a thrilling catch. They can be found near the inlets, bridges, and mangrove shorelines and can be caught on live bait or lures.
March is the time for the tarpon to arrive in Punta Gorda. Tarpon are considered one of the most challenging and exciting fish to catch, and are a favorite among anglers who love to fight big fish. Monster tarpon can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh over 200 pounds, and are known for their incredible power and strength. They can be caught near the beaches and inlets, and are often caught on live bait or artificial lures.
April brings in the red snapper season. Red snapper is a popular eating fish, known for its flaky white meat and delicious flavor. They can be caught in deep waters, near offshore oil rigs, and can be caught using live or dead bait. Red snapper is one of the most sought-after fish in the Gulf of Mexico and is a staple of many local restaurants in Punta Gorda.
May is a great time to catch king mackerel. King mackerel, also known as kingfish, are a fast-swimming predatory fish that can be found near offshore waters. They are popular sport fish and are often caught on live bait or artificial lures. King mackerel is a popular game fish and is often used for tournaments and competitions.
June is the time for goliath grouper. Goliath grouper, also known as the “jewfish,” are a massive species of fish that can grow up to 800 pounds. They are considered a protected species and are no longer targeted for commercial purposes. However, they can still be caught by recreational fishermen and are often caught on live bait.
July is a good time to target amberjack. Amberjack is a strong fighting fish that can be caught in deep waters. They are popular game fish and are often caught on live bait or artificial lures. Amberjack is a popular eating fish and is often served in local restaurants in Punta Gorda.
August is a good time to catch barracuda. Barracuda are predatory fish that can be found near offshore waters. They are known for their speed and power and can be caught using live bait or artificial lures. Barracuda are a popular game fish and are often used for tournaments and competitions.
September is the time for cobia. Cobia is fast-swimming predatory fish that can be found near offshore waters. They are popular game fish and are often caught on live bait or artificial lures.
How hurricanes affect our local housing market
The impact of major hurricanes on the real estate market in Southwest Florida is a mixed bag. On the one hand, the widespread damage and disruption caused by these storms result in a short-term decrease in property values and a slowdown in real estate transactions. Many homeowners are forced to make repairs or rebuild their homes, which adds to the financial strain on the market.
However, on the other hand, the storms also created opportunities for new development and investment in the region. With the influx of insurance funds and government aid, new construction and renovation projects are typically launched post-storm, thus helping to revitalize the real estate market. Additionally, as the region continues to recover and grow after each storm, the demand for real estate historically increases, leading to higher property values and more transactions.
In the years following every major hurricane, the real estate market in Southwest Florida has always rebounded, with steady growth and increased activity. The region remains a vibrant and thriving real estate market and a popular destination for investors.
It’s important to note that while the immediate impact of hurricanes on the real estate market is negative, the long-term effects were more positive as the region’s resilience and adaptability helped to spur growth and development.
Matlacha (water snake)
Matlacha (pronounced “mat la shay”) is a small island located in Lee County, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico. The island is known for its vibrant and colorful art community, as well as its rich history and diverse culture.
The name “Matlacha” comes from the Calusa Indian word “Matlatchie,” which means “water snake.” The Calusa tribe lived in the area for thousands of years before the arrival of European settlers, and the island served as an important hub for fishing and trade.
In the late 1800s, Matlacha was settled by a group of Cuban and Spanish fishermen who established a thriving fishing industry. The island became a hub for commercial and recreational fishing, and its popularity grew as more people discovered the beauty of its clear waters and abundant sea life.
As the 20th century progressed, Matlacha evolved into a popular tourist destination. The island’s stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, combined with its unique culture and history, attracted visitors from around the world.
One of the most notable attractions on Matlacha is its vibrant art scene. The island is home to a large number of artists and art galleries, and is known for its colorful and eclectic style. The island is also home to a number of unique shops and restaurants, many of which are housed in brightly painted buildings that are sure to catch the eye of visitors.
Despite its popularity, Matlacha has managed to maintain its small-town charm. The island is surrounded by miles of pristine mangrove forests and seagrass beds, which provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species. Visitors can explore the island on foot or by bike, and can take advantage of the many outdoor recreation opportunities, such as fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching.
Matlacha’s rich cultural heritage is another of its many draws. The island has a strong connection to its Cuban and Spanish roots, and visitors can experience a taste of this unique culture by visiting local restaurants and shops. Many of the island’s residents are descended from the original Cuban and Spanish settlers, and they are proud of their heritage and work hard to preserve it for future generations.
Despite its small size, Matlacha has a big impact on the local community. The island is home to a number of non-profit organizations, including the Matlacha Hookers, a group of local women who raise money for various charitable causes. The group is known for its signature pink clothing and its commitment to helping those in need.
In conclusion, Matlacha is a small island with a big heart. Its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant art scene make it a truly unique and special place. Whether you are looking to relax in the sun, explore its natural beauty, or experience its cultural heritage, Matlacha is sure to offer something for everyone. So why not pack your bags and head to this little piece of paradise today?
Why Florida?
Retiring in Florida may seem like a dream come true for some, but let me tell you, it’s not all beaches and palm trees. In fact, retiring in Florida is a wild ride, filled with equal parts adventure, humor, and a little bit of craziness. So, why retire in Florida? Let’s find out!
First off, the weather. It’s hot, it’s humid, and it’s sunny. It’s basically like living inside a sauna with a tanning bed built-in. But hey, at least you’ll never have to shovel snow again! And if you think the heat is bad, just wait until hurricane season rolls around. Then you’ll have a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s version of a demolition derby.
Next up, the cost of living. Sure, it’s cheaper than some other states, but have you seen the prices of air conditioning and sunscreen? You’ll be paying those bills until you’re a centenarian.
And let’s not forget about the wildlife. Florida is home to alligators, snakes, and giant bugs. Basically, if it’s creepy and crawly, it probably lives in Florida. So, if you’re an insectaphobe, you may want to reconsider your retirement plans.
But despite all that, the real reason to retire in Florida is for the entertainment. Whether you’re watching spring breakers partying on the beaches, or witnessing a 55-year-old man drive a golf cart down the highway, there is never a dull moment. And if you’re really lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the infamous Florida Man. Trust me, he’ll provide enough laughter to last you the rest of your life.
In conclusion, retiring in Florida may not be for everyone, but if you have a sense of humor and a love for adventure, then it’s the perfect place for you. Just don’t forget your sunscreen, bug spray, and hurricane supplies, and you’ll be good to go!
Severin Waterway (Edgewater)
Severin Waterway, located in Charlotte County along the north bank of the Peace River, is known to some as old sailboat row. The sailboat friendly waterway runs north and south and is part of the larger Beeny and Bangsberg Waterway system. The entrance of the canal is directly across from Fisherman’s’ village in Punta Gorda, a boat friendly destination with many specialty shops and restaurants. The Peace River combines with the Little Alligator Creek and the Myakka River and flows into Gasparilla Sound, also known as Charlotte Harbor. Charlotte Harbor along with many of its connected canal systems are known as a boater’s paradise for their wide variety of wildlife.
Deciding on whether or not to maintain your own pool
Maintaining a swimming pool is a rewarding but time-consuming task that requires a lot of dedication and attention to detail. For those who own a pool, the decision to hire a contractor or to take on the responsibility of maintaining the pool themselves can be a difficult one. There are many factors to consider, such as time, money, and the level of skill and experience required to properly care for a pool. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option and help you determine which is best for you.
One of the main advantages of hiring a contractor to maintain your pool is the convenience factor. A professional contractor will take care of all the necessary tasks such as cleaning, testing the water chemistry, adding chemicals, and making any necessary repairs. This saves you the time and effort of doing the work yourself, allowing you to relax and enjoy your pool without worrying about the upkeep. Additionally, contractors often have specialized equipment and chemicals that are not available to the general public, making it easier for them to maintain a healthy pool environment.
Another advantage of hiring a contractor is their expertise and experience. A good contractor will have a thorough understanding of pool chemistry and be able to diagnose and solve any problems that may arise. They also typically have access to a wide range of products and services that can help keep your pool in top condition. For example, they can recommend and install pool covers, heaters, and pumps that can make your pool more energy efficient and help extend its lifespan.
However, there are also several disadvantages to hiring a contractor. One of the biggest is the cost. Hiring a contractor can be expensive, especially if you need to have them come out on a regular basis. Additionally, many contractors charge extra fees for services like water testing or chemical treatments, which can quickly add up.
Another disadvantage of hiring a contractor is the loss of control. When you hire someone to take care of your pool, you are putting your trust in them to make decisions about how to maintain it. While most contractors are trustworthy and knowledgeable, some may not be, and it can be difficult to catch mistakes or catch them if they don’t do the job correctly.
On the other hand, maintaining your pool yourself has many advantages. Perhaps the biggest is the cost savings. By taking care of the pool yourself, you can save money on expensive labor and chemical costs. Additionally, you have complete control over the pool and can make decisions about how to maintain it based on your own preferences and needs.
Another advantage of maintaining your pool yourself is the sense of satisfaction that comes with it. Taking care of your pool is a rewarding experience, and it can be especially fulfilling if you are able to successfully solve problems and keep the pool in top condition. Additionally, taking care of your pool yourself can be a great opportunity to bond with your family and friends.
However, there are also several disadvantages to maintaining your pool yourself. One of the biggest is the time commitment. Maintaining a pool requires a significant amount of time and effort, especially if you are just starting out. Additionally, it can be difficult to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to properly care for a pool.
Another disadvantage is the lack of specialized equipment and chemicals. While you can purchase many of the items you need to maintain a pool, you may not have access to the same level of specialized equipment and chemicals that contractors have. This can make it more difficult to solve certain problems and keep your pool in top condition.
In conclusion, both hiring a contractor and maintaining your pool yourself have their advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preferences, budget, and the amount of time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your pool.
Popular landscaping plants in Southwest Florida
Southwest Florida is known for its warm and sunny climate, making it a perfect place for outdoor gardening and landscaping. With the right plants, you can transform your yard into a lush and vibrant oasis that’s both beautiful and functional. In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most popular plants to use as landscaping in Southwest Florida.
- Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a popular and versatile plant that’s well-suited to Southwest Florida’s warm and sunny climate. It’s a climbing plant that’s known for its brightly colored bracts, which can be pink, purple, red, orange, or yellow. Bougainvillea is a great choice for adding a pop of color to your landscaping and it can be trained to grow on trellises, walls, or fences.
- Royal Palms
Royal palms are a classic Florida plant that’s been used for landscaping for generations. With their tall stature and distinctive, feathery fronds, royal palms can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any yard. They’re also highly adaptable, thriving in a variety of soils and growing well in both sun and shade.
- Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a tropical plant that’s known for its large, showy flowers that come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and orange. They’re a popular choice for landscaping in Southwest Florida, as they thrive in the warm and humid climate and can add a touch of exotic beauty to any yard.
- Bird of Paradise
Bird of paradise is another tropical plant that’s well-suited to the climate of Southwest Florida. It’s known for its large, bird-like flowers that come in shades of orange and yellow. This plant can grow up to 4-6 feet tall, making it a great choice for adding height and drama to your landscaping.
- Clusia
Clusia is a dense, shrub-like plant that’s often used as a ground cover in Southwest Florida. It’s known for its attractive, evergreen foliage that can be either green or variegated. Clusia is a low-maintenance plant that’s highly adaptable, growing well in both sun and shade.
- Crotons
Croton is a colorful and vibrant plant that’s a popular choice for landscaping in Southwest Florida. It’s known for its distinctive, multi-colored foliage that can be green, yellow, orange, and red. This plant can be used to add a pop of color to your landscaping, and it’s a great choice for use in pots or as a border plant.
- Bismarck Palm
Bismarck palm is a tall, graceful palm that’s well-suited to the warm and humid climate of Southwest Florida. It’s known for its attractive, feathery fronds and distinctive, bulging trunk. Bismarck palm is a great choice for adding a touch of tropical beauty to your landscaping, and it can be used as a focal point or to screen an area.
Southwest Florida offers a wealth of opportunities for gardening and landscaping, and with the right plants, you can create a beautiful, functional, and low-maintenance yard. Whether you’re looking for a pop of color, a touch of elegance, or a touch of tropical beauty, there’s a plant that’s perfect for your needs. By choosing from this list of popular plants, you’ll be well on your way to creating the yard of your dreams in Southwest Florida.
Think about, and have plans to leave the area well in advance
When a hurricane is approaching the Southwest Florida coast, it can be a nerve-wracking and potentially life-threatening situation. Knowing when to evacuate is crucial in ensuring the safety of yourself and your family. While every storm is different and unique, there are some general guidelines you can follow when deciding whether or not to evacuate. In this article, we will discuss the factors that you should consider when making this important decision.
- The Strength and Path of the Hurricane
One of the most important factors to consider when deciding whether or not to evacuate is the strength and path of the hurricane. You should pay close attention to the latest forecasts from trusted sources such as the National Hurricane Center (NHC) and your local meteorologists. The NHC issues regular updates on the storm’s strength, path, and predicted impact. If the hurricane is expected to make landfall in your area and has a high wind speed, it is more likely that an evacuation order will be issued.
Additionally, the storm’s path is important to consider. If the storm is expected to make a direct hit on your area, it is more likely that an evacuation order will be issued. If the storm is expected to veer off course and miss your area, it may not be necessary to evacuate.
- The Type of Shelter You Have
The type of shelter you have can also play a role in deciding whether or not to evacuate. If you live in a mobile home, it is essential to evacuate because these structures are not designed to withstand high winds and can be easily damaged or destroyed during a hurricane. If you live in a single-family home, you should still consider evacuating if the storm is expected to be particularly strong and make landfall in your area.
- Your Personal Circumstances
Your personal circumstances should also be considered when deciding whether or not to evacuate. If you have young children, elderly family members, or individuals with disabilities, it may be safer to evacuate. Additionally, if you have pets, it is important to consider their safety and make arrangements for them ahead of time.
- The Availability of Evacuation Routes
The availability of evacuation routes is another important factor to consider when deciding whether or not to evacuate. If the roads are already congested or closed due to the storm, it may not be possible to evacuate. You should pay close attention to the latest updates from local authorities and consider leaving early if the roads are clear and an evacuation order has been issued.
- The Timing of the Evacuation Order
The timing of the evacuation order is also important to consider when deciding whether or not to evacuate. If an evacuation order is issued well in advance of the storm, it may be safer to evacuate as soon as possible. However, if the evacuation order is issued close to the storm’s arrival, it may not be possible to evacuate in time and you should consider seeking shelter in a safe location.
In conclusion, deciding whether or not to evacuate when a hurricane is approaching Southwest Florida can be a difficult and potentially life-threatening decision. It is important to consider the strength and path of the hurricane, the type of shelter you have, your personal circumstances, the availability of evacuation routes, and the timing of the evacuation order. By paying close attention to the latest updates from trusted sources and considering these factors, you can ensure the safety of yourself and your family during a hurricane.
When should I put up the storm shutters?
As a coastal resident, protecting your home and loved ones from a hurricane is a top priority. One of the most effective ways to do this is by installing storm shutters. However, deciding when to put up your storm shutters can be a difficult and stressful task, especially when a hurricane is approaching. In this article, we will explore the factors to consider when deciding when to put up your storm shutters in preparation for a hurricane.
The first factor to consider is the strength of the hurricane. The National Hurricane Center categorizes hurricanes into five classes based on their wind speed, with Category 5 being the strongest. The higher the category, the more destructive the storm is likely to be, and the earlier you should consider putting up your storm shutters.
Another factor to consider is the size of the storm. Larger storms cover a larger area and can produce more destructive winds, making it necessary to prepare your home sooner. A larger storm also means that it will take longer to pass, which means that your storm shutters will need to be in place for a longer period of time.
The speed at which the hurricane is approaching also plays a role in deciding when to put up your storm shutters. If the storm is moving slowly, you will have more time to prepare, but if it is moving quickly, you will need to act quickly to ensure that your shutters are in place before the storm hits.
The location of your home is also important. If you live in a coastal area that is more vulnerable to hurricane damage, you will want to put up your storm shutters earlier than if you live further inland. This is because coastal areas are more likely to experience higher winds, storm surge, and flooding.
It is also important to consider the state of your storm shutters. If they are damaged or in need of repair, it is essential to make these repairs before the storm hits. This will ensure that they will provide the maximum protection possible during the storm.
Finally, the forecasted trajectory of the storm is a crucial factor in deciding when to put up your storm shutters. If the storm is forecasted to hit your area directly, you will want to put up your shutters as soon as possible. However, if the storm is forecasted to turn and miss your area, you may not need to put up your shutters at all.
In conclusion, deciding when to put up your storm shutters in preparation for a hurricane is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of a number of factors. By taking into account the strength of the storm, its size and speed, your location, the state of your shutters, and the forecasted trajectory, you can ensure that you put up your shutters at the right time, providing maximum protection for your home and loved ones.
It’s always better to err on the side of caution and put up your storm shutters earlier rather than later. The earlier you put them up, the more time you will have to secure your home and evacuate if necessary. Remember, the safety of yourself and your loved ones should always be your top priority.