Category: Editorial

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Waterfront living and the spectacular wildlife you may encounter

Rays are seasonal visitors and are commonly seen swimming the the canals around Charlotte Harbor

If you live on the water in southwest Florida, you may be able to see a variety of wildlife in your backyard. Some common species you might observe include:

  • Manatees: These large, slow-moving mammals are often seen in the waterways of southwest Florida during the winter months when the water is cooler.
  • Dolphins: These playful dolphins are a common sight in the waterways of southwest Florida and can often be seen riding the waves or swimming close to shore.
  • Alligators: Alligators are abundant in the waterways of southwest Florida and can be seen basking in the sun or swimming near the shore.
  • Roseate spoonbills: These striking pink birds are often seen in the wetlands of southwest Florida, especially during the winter months.
  • Great egrets: These large, white-wading birds are commonly seen along the waterways of southwest Florida and can be observed fishing in the shallows.
  • Green sea turtles: These marine turtles are a common sight along the beaches of southwest Florida, especially during the nesting season from June to September.

These are just a few of the many species of wildlife that you may be able to see in your backyard if you live on the water in southwest Florida.

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Snowbirds

During the “snowbird season” in Punta Gorda, Florida, the town experiences an influx of visitors from colder climates seeking a warmer winter destination. The weather is typically mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the low 60s to the mid-80s. There may be more crowds and increased traffic as a result of the snowbirds, but many local businesses and tourist attractions remain open and offer special events and promotions. It’s a lively time in Punta Gorda, with opportunities to enjoy the beaches, parks, golf courses, shopping, and dining.

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Roofing

When it comes to roofing in Florida, it’s important to choose a material that can withstand the state’s frequent storms and hurricanes. Three popular options are shingle, tile, and metal roofing.

Shingle roofing is a widely used and budget-friendly choice, made of asphalt or composite materials. Shingles provide decent protection against rain and snow, but they can be easily damaged by high winds and hail. During a hurricane, strong winds can rip shingles off the roof, leaving it exposed to water damage. Additionally, heavy rainfall can cause shingles to become saturated, leading to leaks.

Tile roofing is a more durable option that can handle strong winds and heavy rainfall. Tiles, made of clay or concrete, are sturdy and resistant to high winds, but can be easily broken by hail. Although this type of roofing offers good protection, it can be expensive to install and maintain. Tiles can crack or break during a hurricane, leaving the roof vulnerable to water damage.

Metal roofing is the most resilient option and provides the best protection against severe weather conditions. Metal roofs are made of lightweight, strong, and rust-resistant materials such as aluminum, steel, or copper. They can withstand high winds and heavy rainfall without leaking, and are also fire and hail-resistant. Unlike tile or shingle roofing, metal roofs can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance.

When it comes to wind resistance, metal roofing is the top choice. Metal roofs are able to withstand winds up to 140 mph, making them ideal for Florida’s hurricane-prone areas. Shingle and tile roofs, on the other hand, can only handle winds up to 110 mph, making them more vulnerable to damage during strong storms.

Although all roofing materials can be damaged during a hurricane, the choice of material can greatly affect a building’s protection. Metal roofing is the most durable option, providing the best protection against storms and hurricanes. Shingle and tile roofing are more affordable, but may need to be replaced after a severe storm.

In conclusion, when it comes to roofing in Florida, it’s crucial to choose a material that can withstand the state’s frequent storms and hurricanes. Metal roofing is the most resilient option, offering long-term protection against severe weather conditions. If you live in Florida, it’s worth considering a metal roof for your home or building to ensure the best protection possible.

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Why consider Punta Gorda Isles (PGI)?

Punta Gorda Isles is a luxurious and well-maintained neighborhood located in Port Charlotte, Florida. It is a popular destination for retirees and vacation homeowners who seek a peaceful and comfortable lifestyle. This neighborhood is renowned for its attractive homes, lovely canals, and its close proximity to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and parks.

The neighborhood is situated in the Gulf of Mexico and provides residents with stunning views of the water. The homes in Punta Gorda Isles are primarily single-family homes, with a mix of ranch-style homes and Mediterranean-style villas. The homes are well-maintained and feature spacious interiors, large windows, and elegant furnishings.

The community is also well-known for its extensive canal system, which is home to many of the neighborhood’s residents. The canals are well-maintained and provide a perfect place for boating and fishing. The community also has its own private marina, which provides residents with easy access to the Gulf of Mexico.

One of the biggest attractions of Punta Gorda Isles is its close proximity to beautiful beaches. Residents of this neighborhood can enjoy some of the best beaches in Florida, including Boca Grande, Manasota Key, and Englewood Beach. These beaches are renowned for their clear waters, soft sand, and excellent fishing opportunities.

Another popular attraction of Punta Gorda Isles is its close proximity to several golf courses. There are several golf courses located within a short drive of the neighborhood, including the Punta Gorda Country Club, the Twin Isles Country Club, and the St. Andrews South Golf Club. These courses provide residents with the opportunity to enjoy a round of golf in a beautiful and peaceful setting.

Punta Gorda Isles is also home to several parks, which provide residents with ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Gilchrist Park is a popular destination for families and offers a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. Laishley Park is another popular destination, which features a marina, a fishing pier, and a large playground.

In terms of shopping and dining, Punta Gorda Isles is well-served by several shops and restaurants. The neighborhood is home to several shopping centers, which offer a variety of stores, including groceries, clothing, and electronics. The restaurants in the area are known for their delicious food and relaxed atmosphere.

Overall, Punta Gorda Isles is a wonderful neighborhood that offers residents a peaceful and luxurious lifestyle. With its attractive homes, lovely canals, and close proximity to beautiful beaches, golf courses, and parks, this neighborhood is the perfect destination for retirees and vacation homeowners. Whether you are looking for a place to retire, a second home, or a family vacation destination, Punta Gorda Isles is a great choice.

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The “WINK” TV station

WINK-TV is a CBS-affiliated television station located in Fort Myers, Florida. It was founded in 1954 as the first television station in Southwest Florida and has been serving the community for over 67 years.

The station was originally owned by the Fort Myers Broadcasting Company and broadcasted with only 100 watts of power. However, over the years, WINK-TV has undergone several changes and upgrades, both in terms of technology and ownership. In the late 1950s, the station increased its power to 1000 watts, allowing it to reach a larger audience in Southwest Florida.

Throughout its history, WINK-TV has been committed to providing its viewers with the latest local and national news, weather updates, and entertainment programming. In the 1960s and 1970s, the station began to expand its local programming offerings, including a popular daily news show, “WINK News at Sunrise,” which is still broadcasted today as WINK News. WINK-TV also became known for its coverage of local sports, including high school and college football games.

In the 1980s, WINK-TV underwent a major change as it was sold to Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., a private equity firm. The new ownership allowed WINK-TV to continue to grow and expand its reach, as it invested in the latest technology and expanded its local news coverage. WINK-TV became the first television station in Southwest Florida to broadcast in digital and HD, allowing it to provide its viewers with the highest quality news and entertainment programming.

WINK-TV has also been dedicated to giving back to the community it serves. Over the years, the station has supported numerous local charities and non-profit organizations, including the American Cancer Society, the United Way, and the Southwest Florida Food Bank. WINK-TV has also been a major sponsor of local events and festivals, including the Fort Myers Beach Film Festival and the Southwest Florida and Lee County Fair.

In recent years, WINK-TV has continued to evolve and expand its reach, both in Southwest Florida and beyond. The station has launched a website and mobile app, allowing viewers to access its programming and news coverage anytime, anywhere. WINK-TV has also continued to invest in its local news coverage, including expanding its investigative reporting and launching a new consumer watchdog program to help protect the residents of Southwest Florida.

WINK-TV has been a vital part of the Fort Myers community for over 67 years. Its commitment to providing high-quality news, weather updates, and entertainment programming, as well as its dedication to giving back to the community, have made it one of the most trusted and respected television stations in Southwest Florida. As WINK-TV continues to evolve and expand its reach in the years to come, it is sure to remain a cornerstone of the Fort Myers community for many years to come.

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A taste of Florida (backyard fruit trees)

Mango and avocado trees can thrive in the subtropical climate of Southwestern Florida. Both of these fruit trees require well-drained soil, ample sunlight, and proper watering.

Mango trees can grow nearly 60 feet tall but are usually maintained at a much smaller size for ease of harvesting. They should be planted in full sun, and in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Mango trees require regular watering, especially during the dry season, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Mango trees also benefit from regular and balanced fertilization.

Avocado trees are a bit more finicky and require more specific conditions to thrive. They grow best in well-drained soil with a pH between 6 and 7, and require plenty of sunlight. Like mango trees, they require regular watering, but not to the point of causing waterlogged soil. Avocado trees are also susceptible to cold damage, so it’s important to choose a location that provides protection from frost. Additionally, they require adequate air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Both mango and avocado trees can be susceptible to pests and diseases, so it’s important to monitor them regularly and take appropriate action when necessary. Common pests for both trees include scale insects, mites, and fruit flies, while fungal diseases like powdery mildew and anthracnose can also pose a problem. Regularly pruning your trees can help to improve air circulation and prevent diseases from taking hold.

When it comes to harvesting in late fall, mangoes are usually ready to be picked when they are slightly soft and yield to gentle pressure. Avocado fruits, on the other hand, take longer to mature and usually take several months to ripen after they have been picked. To encourage ripening, store avocados at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

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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.

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How hurricanes affect our local housing market

Collapsed seawall in Port Charlotte from hurricane Irma (2017)

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.

Hurricane Ian wind damage (2022)
Hurricane Ian wind damage (2022)
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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?

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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!