· Coast for seashells include Sanibel Island and Captiva Island near Fort Myers, Venice Beach and...

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11In Search of Shells Tips for finding the

perfect seashells

18Increasing Service and

Broadening Technology Revisiting Gulf Coast International

Properties Boca Grande

26“Oh Baby!”

To Explore Ocean Animal Romance, Babies, Families

33Rev It Up!

Local car museums display history through classic cars

42Dedicated Board Member Retires

Boca Grande resident retires from Suncoast Humane Society

44Gulf Island Tours

Charlotte County’s newest boat chartering company

Photo by Photographic Images by Heidemarie Photos Provided by Mote Marine Laboratory

Cover photo by: Photographic Images by Heidemarie

6 BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 2

18 11 26

Departments8

Island TalkHighlights on Local Business

48Island Must Haves

Products That You’ll Love

62On the Wild Side

Discover Our Wildlife

64Business Directory

Resources at Your Fingertips

66It’s five o’clock Somewhere

Cocktail Recipe

On the Cover 18 Increasing Service and Broadening Technology

59Once Upon an Island

Snapshots of Boca Grande’s Historic Past

Photo Provided by Ideal Classic Cars Photo by John Gregory Gulf Beach Portraits

Staff List

Adam & Danette BartolottaPublishers

Jessica HobbsManaging Editor

Jessica TenbuschWriter

Joyce CattelaneCopy Editor

Brad BeattyAccount Associate

Kevin T. Copeman Sales and Marketing Intern

Lynda VendittiArt Director

Jason AlexanderGraphic Designer

Barbara Zufall Administrative Assistant

Photographic Images by HeidemarieContributing Photographer

Samuel Di CenzoContributing Photographer

For advertising information, please call ROI Media at (941) 257-4352

To contact the Editorial Department, please e-mail [email protected]

www.roimedia.uswww.bocagrandemagazine.com

Please mail any correspondence to:Boca Grande Magazine14870 Tamiami Trail #A-202North Port, FL 34287

Boca Grande Magazine is published by ROI Media. The editorial staff makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information presented herein. ROI Media is not liable for errors or interpretations. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any advertising and/or editorial copy. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, in any form, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

7 VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 2 BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE

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Mercier CPA Associates PAThe Affordable Care Act has added a level of complexity to taxes that people were not ex-pecting. The net investment income tax of 3.8% has also created unexpected tax liabilities for in-dividuals, estates and trusts. Let us know if you need to discuss how tax law changes impact you. Contact our office at [email protected] or (941) 474-9309 to schedule an appoint-ment at our office or your home or business.

Celebrating 25 Years of Building Spectacular PoolsNautilus Pools has been awarded nine Inter-national awards and 12 state design awards...a total of 21 awards for innovative design. Don’t you want a spectacular pool in your backyard paradise? We have over 2400 satisfied cli-ents in our 25 years of business in southwest Florida. Located in Charlotte County, we are a family-owned business that focuses on custom design, quality products and superior construc-tion. Doesn’t your family deserve the best? We also remodel existing pools for a totally new look! Call (941) 624-5744 today for an appoint-ment or visit our office at 18380 Paulson Drive, Port Charlotte (Lic CPC053897-SCC056684).

Celebrating 25 Years of Travel PlanningBoca Grande Travel, Inc. has been giving ex-cellent travel planning services in the Char-lotte and Lee county areas for 25 years. Over 2500 satisfied clients have continued their loyalty during this time, receiving the best travel values and the most memorable experi-ences. To those clients we say thank you for your business. Our current staff has person-ally traveled by air and ship to 84 countries and all 50 United States to gain first hand ex-perience in the places to see. Whether it’s an African safari or a trip to the Wild Kingdom in Orlando we offer many advantages when planning your vacation. We use personally established worldwide contacts that provide safe and secure service for travelers while visiting their destinations. We also offer ad-ditional free bonus amenities to manage your on-line direct cruise booking. We have expe-rience with numerous groups and offer large family group travel discounts. Travel is not just a business but a passion with us and we would love the opportunity to help plan your next world travel experience. Call us at (941) 964-0200 to discuss your next adventure.

Meet Pete Johnson from TatuajeTobacco Locker will be hosting a Tatuaje / L’Atelier event with Pete Johnson, from Tatuaje Cigar and KC Johnson from L’Atelier Cigars at Tobacco Locker Cigar Bar.Tobacco Locker will be selling at this event the long awaited release of the new L’Atelier Cote d’Or Cigars available for sale.When: Wednesday April 22, 2015Time: 5:00pm to CloseThis cost for this event is free, zip zero. but! Spe-cial Event tickets are available for purchase for $20.00. Ticket includes: 3 Tatuaje / L’Atelier Ci-gars, traditional Cuban food tasting and Tatuaje Wine tasting. Special Event Tickets are available by calling Tobacco Locker at (941) 255-8825 or by stopping by Tobacco Locker Cigar Bar to make sure you have your all access pass.Special Note: Tatuaje Wine will also be avail-able for purchase at this event!Make sure you tell all of your cigar smoking friends. You won’t want to miss this event. See you at the Locker.


Island Talk If you would like to have your business news featured in this section, please call (941) 257-4352.

Tips for finding the perfect seashells

Written by Jessica Hobbs

Living in Florida not only rewards us with beautiful year-round weather but also picturesque beaches. One of the relaxing benefits of visiting the beach is searching for sea-shells, from unusual and rare shells to those that are com-mon and easy to find. Other interesting fossils are also of-

ten found including sharks’ teeth. It’s as easy as walking along the Gulf of Mexico and stopping along the

way to pick up a good find. Some days there are an immeasurable number of shells to

choose from on the sandy landscape and other days pickings are slim.

Whether you have a collection of interesting shells or are bring-

ing home a number of dif-ferent types of shells to use

for a project, the search for a number of unique

shells can be advanced by following a few tips and rules.

In Search of


The best way to search for shells is by beachcombing. This involves

meandering along the shore and picking up whatever catches your eye.


If you think about it, shells are pretty amazing. And maybe this is where our great fascination with finding and collect-ing shells stems from. Not only are they interesting to look at (many are downright beautiful) and useful for creative craft projects, but they are true fossils from the sea that used to house marine creatures before they washed up on the shores of our beaches. They are the exoskeletons of mollusks. Shells are made out of calcium, similar to our own bones, but they wear theirs on the outside for protection from predators, strong currents and storms. Seashells are grown from the bottom up as they are formed around the creatures that they protect. Mollusks build their shells by secreting a liquid that eventually hardens around them and these shells grow with them. Shells are left behind when the mollusks die and can be reused again, such as for a hermit crab’s home. There are two types of mollusk shells: bivalves and univalves. A bivalve is when two shell halves form a whole shell and a bivalve is just one shell that can contain a mollusk. Examples of a bivalve include conch, nautilus and other spiral shells. This explains why some shells look so stunningly different from others found upon the beach and depending on what types you may be looking for, you can understand what types of mollusks once called your shells home.

While much of our backyard consists of a number of Gulf beaches, shell searching can be done on any coast, on any beach. If you have the time and wish to travel, try a few across the state. But if not, then the ones we have locally and even a bit of a drive away are some of the best beaches in the area. The top rated beaches locally and along the Gulf

Coast for seashells include Sanibel Island and Captiva Island near Fort Myers, Venice Beach and Honeymoon Island near Tampa. Varying the locations of where you look for shells will grant a greater variety of the types that you return home with. But no two beaches are the same and no two days are the same, so whichever beach is closest to you will do just fine to find great shells if you are vigilant in your search.

Looking for shells is a fairly easy task in itself and rewards those who are slow and attentive in their efforts. The best way to search for shells is by beachcombing. This involves meandering along the shore and picking up whatever catches your eye. The best areas of the beach to find newly deposited shells from the Gulf is from the water’s edge, down to the line just above the high tide line, which is often marked by a row of seaweed or debris. The best times to look for shells is after a storm and at low tide when sea-shells will be more exposed. The months between May and September are said to be good shell searching times. Early morning is best. If you’re looking for a specific type of shell, it’s important to remain patient in your search and a good shell guide will come in handy so you can double check what types of shells you come across. Other tools that can assist you are a bucket for holding your finds of the day or a net. A sand sifter is a great tool as it can relieve you from bending and stooping over all day. And for serious shell searchers, wearing some water shoes or sandals may help if you plan on beachcombing for a long while and will save your feet at the end of the day. Don’t forget a good hat, sun-screen and drinking water!

The top rated beaches locally and along the Gulf Coast for seashells include Sanibel Island

and Captiva Island near Fort Myers, Venice Beach and Honeymoon Island near Tampa.


Not only are they [shells] interesting to look at (many are downright beautiful) and useful for creative craft projects, but they are true fossils from the sea that used to house marine creatures before they washed up on the shores of our beaches.


While most shells along the beach are fair game for collecting, it’s important to be mind-ful of a few things while you’re searching. It’s necessary to be thoughtful of preserving the natural resources of the beach you are at. This means live shells that you may come across should not be taken. Only shells that no lon-ger have mollusks living in them should be collected so as to protect any creatures from being over-harvested and endangered. Some beaches are largely made up of the shells that are part of their shoreline and in this case, be mindful of not taking too many shells. Find the special few to enjoy. Sanibel and Captiva are refuge islands which do not allow the col-lection of live shells due to their importance on local ecology.

It’s necessary to be thoughtful of preserving the natural

resources of the beach you are at. This means live shells

that you may come across should not be taken.

Locally, the Sarasota Shell Club offers a group for people interested in shells to join while working towards advancing other people’s knowledge of these treasures. The shell club was formed in 1963 to bring together shell lovers throughout Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. Members range in shell interests from serious and novice collectors to those who know the scientific names of most all shells that they find. The club’s objective is to build a respect for the environment inhab-ited by shells and related mollusks while de-veloping people’s interests in and knowledge of shells. The club provides educational opportu-nities, experience in collecting and identifica-tion of shells and provides a venue by which collectors may exhibit their collections and artisans may exhibit their creations. They host a shell show each year that is greatly attended and showcases vast types of shells while show-casing local artisans as well. Learn more about the Sarasota Shell Club by visiting www.Sara-sotaShellClub.com. For more information on seashells and to identify shells, visit www.shell-museum.org/shells/shellspic.cfm. For more in-formation on collecting shells from Captiva or Sanibel Islands, visit www.sanibel-captiva.org/sanibel-island-shelling/.


Johann Fust Library shell collection Boca Grande’s Johann Fust Library not only offers a wealth of variety in its collection of books and displays but also in its shell col-lection. Visitors can view two extensive col-lections that showcase not only shells found on the local shores of Gasparilla and Little Gasparilla Islands, but also shells from all over the world. The Henry Francis DuPont shell collection features about 80 shells that were collected between 1920 and 1969 by DuPont and his family and was donated to the library by his family in his memory. If you’re interested in shells beyond our local beaches, then the George Melissas collec-tion is a great resource. This international collection was donated to the library in 1999 and includes some 150 different shells. Both collections are available for viewing during regular library hours. The Johann Fust Library is located at 1040 W 10th Street and Gasparilla Road. For more information, visit www.jfcl.org.


Increasing Service and Broadening Technology Revisiting Gulf Coast International Properties Boca GrandePhotos by Photographic Images by Heidemarie


“Our company motto is ‘Live Exceptionally’”– Bob Melvin


It’s been just over a year since top producing real estate broker Bob Melvin began his affilia-tion with Gulf Coast International Properties, (GCIP). Within that year the partnership has been extremely rewarding with almost $400 million in sales and is still going strong. Bob’s dream of running an independently operated boutique Real Estate Brokerage is now a real-ity. But don’t let the quaint picture fool you; the office is really stepping it up a notch with advancements in technology and with realtors who are leaders in their industry.

“Our company motto is ‘Live Exceptionally’,” explains Bob. One example of reflecting that idea is with the advanced technology they cur-rently offer at the GCIP office. Not only was the downtown office completely renovated into a bright and inviting environment follow-ing the partnership last year, but they now of-fer cutting-edge Image Surge interactive touch screens. Two of these screens are located at the windows of the office. Residents and visitors to the island can peruse listings of homes for sale while strolling through the village shopping or enjoying an ice cream cone. Another tablet style touch screen is available in the office for clients to view listings. The touch screens also

can collect contact information for interested buyers or sellers and interested buyers are able to get all the information on a property they may be interested in, including viewing photos of the interior of a home. They have seen a high usage of the screens since they were installed, adding to a greater visibility for their listings.

Their goal is to “give intimate service, while increasing service and offering the upmost in technology.” With all the added technological features and benefits of the new partnership, GCIP in Boca Grande has seen great success. Sales on island have increased and there is cur-rently a low inventory available. Being associ-ated with GCIP has brought a lot of buyers that love southwest Florida but didn’t realize the op-portunity in Boca Grande that isn’t anywhere else. “It’s a very rare spot,” said Bob. Boca Grande also has a number of amazing amenities includ-ing one of the finest golf courses, a private jet airport nearby, a world-class and completely re-done marina and one of the finest historic hotels in the world with the Gasparilla Inn. “You put all that together and you have Boca Grande. Add-ed to the quaint village shopping and friendly, family feel it truly is a one of a kind location in the sun. It’s a wonderful thing after having sold

“I love to give back to the community and I enjoy helping people – you have to remember the community that helped you become successful.”– Bob Melvin


real estate for the last 30 years and seeing gen-erational turnover and see the young families come back and feel the youth and vibrancy, it just makes it all that much more special.”

Another element to their success is that Bob handles luxury real estate as well as interna-tional. Bob and GCIP are also members of the Board of Regents Luxury Real Estate, which is a network of the world’s most elite luxury real estate professionals. Members are cho-sen based on their leadership and longstand-ing success in the industry. It is also the most searched luxury real estate website in the world. Benefits of this network include na-tional and global connections, comprehensive resources and much more. Gulf Coast Inter-national is the Regent for Luxury Real Estate from Collier County through Lee, Charlotte and Sarasota counties. Clients can expect only the best real estate services. Bob has brokered many very complex and demanding multi-mil-

lion dollar deals and has been the top Realtor for the Englewood Area Board of Realtors for the past 15 years. In 2008 Luxury Real Estate recognized Bob with the prestigious award: The “Billionaires Club,” which recognized Real-tors that have sold over a billion dollars in real estate. While real estate may be his calling in life as shown by his dedication to every listing and client, the community is his passion. He gives generously of his time and resources to many local organizations, including helping to found the Englewood Community Care Clinic, where he serves on the board as well as volun-teers his time at the clinic. “I love to give back to the community and I enjoy helping people – you have to remember the community that helped you become successful,” he said.

Gulf Coast International Properties Boca Grande is located at on Fourth and 411 Park Avenue. Be sure to visit Bob Melvin for the very best in real estate services.

Additional Gulf Coast International Agents

Heath Seckel

Pat Smith

Mary McKinley

Misha Sitov


“Oh Baby!”

“Where do little fishies come from?” If you ask a fish, get ready for awkward silence. If you ask a marine scientist, get ready for amazing answers.

People of all ages can learn how ocean life re-news itself during the limited-time, marine-sci-ence exhibit “Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas,” started on Valentine’s Day at Mote Aquarium in Sarasota.

This family-friendly, educational exhibit will in-vite visitors to discover ocean animal “romance” and reproduction, babies of many species and the survival challenges facing new generations of marine life. These topics are central to marine research around the globe, including the world-class science of Mote Marine Laboratory.

to Explore Ocean Animal Romance, Babies, Families

Photos Provided by Mote Marine Laboratory


Mote raises and breeds many marine species — such as sport fish for ecosystem restoration and seahorses for conservation and education. Un-derstanding marine animal life cycles — includ-ing how and where they mate and give birth — is vital for conserving populations of keystone marine species and their future generations.

“Guests of every age will be able to relate to this exhibit — its interactive games and activi-ties are designed to get families and couples talking and get everyone thinking,” said Evan Barniskis, Assistant Vice President for Mote Aquarium. “Kids will be amazed by the unusu-al lives of baby animals, from dangerous sibling rivalries to incredible journeys. Meanwhile adults will enjoy learning about the quirks of undersea romance.”

Highlights of “Oh Baby!” will include:

• A baby shark touch pool with 9- to 12-inch sharks of the Pacific Ocean — species never before displayed at Mote. This display will help reveal the diversity of sharks and show a younger stage of their life cycle than many other aquarium exhibits.

• Baby marine animals of multiple other species.

• A family-friendly look at marine animal courtship behaviors. (Moms and dads, please don’t try these at home!)

• Species of seahorses, pipefish, garden eels and jellyfish that have never before been displayed at Mote.

• “Who Wants to Be a Sea Star?” — a multi-player, reality TV-style science quiz specially designed for this exhibit — along with many other hands-on elements.

“Guests of every age will be able to relate to this exhibit — its interactive games and activities are designed to get families and couples talking and get everyone thinking.” – Evan Barniskis, Assistant Vice President for Mote Aquarium.


Visitor Information

“Oh Baby!” will be open through September. 27 during normal hours at Mote Aquarium: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM seven days a week. Mote Aquarium is located at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway on City Island, Sarasota. The exhibit will be within Mote’s Ann and Alfred Gold-stein Marine Mammal Research and Rehabili-tation Center, 1703 Ken Thompson Parkway (a short walk down the street from the Aquar-ium admissions office and parking lot).

Visiting “Oh Baby!” will be included with nor-mal admission to Mote Aquarium. Admission is $19.75 for adults (13 & older); $18.75 for

seniors (age 65 and older); $14.75 for youths (ages 4-12); free for children (ages 0-3) and free for Mote Members.

Mote Aquarium is an informal science edu-cation center that displays more than 100 marine species and highlights the world-class marine science of Mote Marine Laboratory. For more information, visit www.mote.org.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for “Oh Baby! Life Cycles of the Seas.” Contact Stacy Alexander at (941) 388-4441, ext. 509 or [email protected].


Local car museums display history through classic cars

The roar of the engine, the smell of the exhaust, the squeal of the tires and the ex-hilaration of wind in your hair as the car speeds off; cars have captivated society for decades now and have revolutionized our history. Cars have not only changed trans-portation and the way we travel, but numerous technological advancements have been made through car engineering as well as increased safety measures. There is little else that can thrill and delight more than a fast car with a sleek exterior. Our love for classic cars has created a culture of car enthusiasts. Car shows, exhibits and museums are common today and people of all ages can learn about the history of different cars, revel in the beauty of a muscle car, or purchase one for their own col-lection. Whether or not it is due to our year-round mild sunny weather that is great for cruising, we are lucky to live in an area that is rife with car shows and museums. Two nearby car museums offer customers a wealth of classic cars, muscle cars and more. Spend a day viewing the history and changes of the automobile.

Photo Provided by Ideal Classic Cars

Written by Jessica Hobbs


Ideal Classic Cars 2224 S Tamiami TrailVenice, FL

Located just off U.S. 41 in Venice, Ideal Classic Cars houses a collection of over 100 classic cars, trucks, motorcycles and even movie cars. The business was previously located in Sarasota begin-ning in 2010 before moving in 2013 to its current 30,000-square foot building in Venice, which is able to hold more cars. Relocating to the Venice area has been a great move for Ideal as they have seen sales double.

It can be hard to determine which types of cars will bring in the crowds, but Ideal Classic Cars seems to have a good variety that keeps people interested. To stay within the confines of classic cars, the show-room typically houses vehicles ranging in year from

the 1920s to the 1970s. Car models include Mus-tangs, Corvettes, Camaros, Cadillacs, Roadsters, GTOs and many more. There is also the opportunity to see newer model cars on the showroom floor too, if that’s your thing. These have included such models as the Ford GT and Rolls Royce Drophead Coupe to Chevy Tahoes and Cadillac Escalades. Newer model cars are usually acquired by Ideal as trade-ins on clas-sic vehicles. While much of the focus is on American classic cars, European cars do still arrive at Ideal fair-ly often. These include Jaguars, Mercedes, Triumphs and Nash Metropolitans. Other unique cars include those used in a movie or exact replicas of movie cars, which can often be seen out front of the museum. Recent movie cars include two different Batmobiles, Ghostbusters car, Dick Tracy car, Back To The Fu-ture car, Beverly Hillbillies car, Herbie the Love Bug, Mystery Machine from Scooby Doo and Tow Mater from the movie Cars. New and interesting movie cars are slated to arrive at Ideal Classic Cars soon.

Photos Provided by Ideal Classic Cars


through photos and videos of the cars. “It’s a neat process to witness. We work hard to provide as much info as pos-sible for our clients. Most buyers are so impressed with the documentation we provide that they end up buying the vehicles without coming to see them in person! They basi-cally view and evaluate the car in the comfort of their home or office and when all is said and done, we ship the car to them,” said Courtney. International sales account for about 25% of Ideal’s business.

Ideal Classic Cars also hosts special events throughout the year. These includes monthly car shows on the second Sat-urday of each month. Other happenings include charity events, fundraisers and corporate functions. The museum and showroom are open to the public Monday – Thursday from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Friday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Saturday from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.idealclassiccars.net.

While Ideal is a car museum at heart it also buys, sells, trades or consigns cars. Most vehicles in the museum are available for purchase and because of this the inventory is constantly changing. The museum also houses a full service shop that works on each car that is added to the collec-tion. They all go through a safety inspection to make sure they are mechanically sound before they are moved to the showroom floor. If you do not see what you are looking for, Ideal Classic Cars also offers a service to locate specific cars that customers are interested in purchasing if one is not currently in their inventory.

Ideal does a lot of international business. Courtney Lam-bert, director of marketing and advertising, explains that many Europeans favor American classic cars. The company has also sold many vehicles to countries outside of Europe such as Australia, Canada, Brazil and Dubai. Much of the sales process is usually done online, over the phone and

While Ideal is a car museum at heart it also buys, sells, trades or consigns cars. Most vehicles in the museum are available for purchase and because of this the inventory is constantly changing.

Photo Provided by Ideal Classic Cars


Rick Treworgy’s Muscle Car City3811 Tamiami TrailPunta Gorda, FL

Muscle Car City (MCC) features a collection of nearly 200 cars that dates back to the 1920s. With its name as an indicator, the museum has a strong focus on muscle cars. Most exhibits are permanent with rotating cars to keep the existing collection fresh.

Housed in a 99,000-square foot museum, Muscle Car City’s collection of cars includes the ever popular Corvettes, Camaros, GTOs, Bel Airs, Impalas, El Caminos and Chevelles from the 1950s to the 1980s. Multiple specialty cars are also featured including 15 touring cars and the Indy race car driven by actress Cameron Diaz in the Charlie’s Angels movie. Other unique vehicles include an original Budweiser boat, an antique ice cream truck and fire truck as well as a collection of antique bicycles dating back to the 1800s. History is important to MCC. Since all the vehicles they showcase are built by General Motors (GM), they are assorted by year giving guests a first hand view of the evolution of GM cars over the years. The business recently purchased a newer location near the museum that will house historical items and will cover the history of GM as well as how it affected social history. Look for that later this summer.

History is important to MCC. Since all the vehicles they showcase are built by General Motors (GM), they are assorted by year giving guests a first hand view of the evolution of GM cars over the years. The business recently purchased a newer location near the museum that will house historical items and will cover the history of GM as well as how it affected social history. Look for that later this summer.

Photo Provided by Rick Treworgy’s Muscle Car City


Vehicles are also available for purchase at MCC. Those cars that are located in the car corral are hot rods and other high-performance vehicles that can be bought directly. MCC also has a retro 1960s-themed diner on the premises that features a breakfast and lunch menu as well as old-fash-ioned floats, sodas and shakes. MCC also operates a speed shop, which is a parts store that specializes in hot rod and restoration items, one of the only local shops specializing in these types of parts. The museum also includes a gift shop and memorabilia store that includes toys for the kids, MCC T-shirts, and car logo jerseys, jackets and hoodies.

The museum holds a car show on the third Satur-day of the month. These events are free and include music, door prizes, trophies and food. A monthly auto-related flea market is also held on the last Sun-day of each month. Cost is $10 per double parking space for auto-related vendors. Other events take place throughout the year including charity car shows. Muscle Car City is open Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Diner hours are 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday – Sunday. Admission for the museum is $12.50 for adults and $6 for children ages 3 – 12. Located at 3811 Tamiami Trail in Pun-ta Gorda. For more information or to view MCC’s event calendar, visit www.musclecarcity.net.

Photos Provided by Rick Treworgy’s Muscle Car City


The Revs Institute for Automotive ResearchThe Revs Institute for Automotive Research, Inc. in Naples is dedicated to the study and celebration of the automobile - arguably the most important technologic object of the 20th century. On view to the public is the Collier Collection, over 100 of the most influential automobiles ever created. In this much acclaimed collection, each car has been selected for its uniqueness and ability to meet rigid standards of historical, technical, aesthetic or so-cial significance. To enhance the visitor’s experience, specially designed in-teractive displays and artifact showcases are presented within four themed galleries. They include many rare or unique items from the Revs library and research collections. To further enhance the experience, docent-led tours are available in addition to general admission. The Revs Institute® is open: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Admission is by advance reservation only online at www.revsinstitute.org or by phone at (239) 687-REVS.

Photo Provided by The Revs Institute for Automotive Research


Suncoast Humane SocietyExpansions to their facility in Englewood dur-ing the 1980s and 1990s helped the Society to more effectively provide for a growing service area. To reflect the changes, the organization became Suncoast Humane Society. Today their service area includes Charlotte County, most of Sarasota County, and the Boca Grande portion of Lee County, a total of over 450 square miles.


Longtime Boca Grande resident, Doris Bishop, was honored at a recent board of trustees meeting of Suncoast Humane Society.

Doris has served as a member of the Society’s board since August 2008. The board presented her with a beautiful redwood with gold accents clock with the inscription, “Sincere Appreciation for Sev-en Years of Devoted Service as a Member of the Board of Trust-ees.” Board President/Treasurer Tom Murtha states, “Doris has been a loved and respected board member and we are all grateful for the opportunity to have served with her. I will miss her input and guidance.” Executive Director Phil Snyder added, “Doris has always been there to support the Society, the board and our staff. I know she will continue her love and support of the organization and of our mission.”

In addition to serving Suncoast Humane Society, Doris has also been involved with the Boca Grande Historical Society since its inception in 1995, serving as President in 2006 and 2007. She is a retired professional speech therapist.

For more information, contact Suncoast Humane Society at (941) 474-7884, visit www.humane.org, or stop by their adoption center at 6781 San Casa Drive, Englewood.

Suncoast Humane Society has been serving animals and people since 1971. Founded as Englewood Animal Aid Society, the or-ganization’s services and programs were soon challenged to meet the demands placed on them by the pet over-population crises.

Dedicated Board Member RetiresPhotos by Photographic Images by Heidemarie


Established in October 2012, Gulf Island Tours is Charlotte County’s newest boat chartering company. They offer several memorable ways to explore the region’s unique coastal towns and barrier island beaches from the very best vantage point — the water! Gulf Island Tours is owned and operated by Captain Stuart Keel and his wife Angela, both natives of North Caroli-na’s Southern Outer Banks. Headquartered in Chadwick Cove Marina in Englewood, the tour company offers full day yacht charters and over-night cruise packages on their 45-foot Carver Voyager pilothouse yacht, the Reel Keel.

Captain Stuart Keel hails from Martin County, North Carolina, where he spent his life hunt-ing and fishing along the banks of Pamlico, Beaufort and Bogue Sounds. Each summer he visited family in St. Petersburg for several months, exploring the area’s incredible water-ways at every available opportunity. He de-scribes his love for the water as something that feels like as an inherited trait and in fact, his ancestral surname Keiller actually means the “Pilot of the Long Ships.” He has a 50-ton Mas-ter Captain’s license and has been a waterman for over 35 years.

The Reel Keel’s spacious interior and exterior enable you to sit back and enjoy your charter in complete comfort. It’s like being in your own private five-star hotel with panoramic views that change daily. On board you’ll find two full staterooms with full baths, a large L-shaped sectional with recliners, satellite TV, a circular sofa in the lower helm station and a

fully equipped galley kitchen to port. Up top, the flybridge comfortably seats 10 around a big dining table where delicious meals and favorite cocktails are enjoyed alfresco. If you’d prefer to dine ashore, a selection of many fantastic, casually elegant restaurants on the itinerary await you. If swimming, shelling and sunbath-ing is more your style, the Reel Keel offers grills and cooking areas, both above deck and down.

The best part about a yacht charter or any kind of cruise is that you will get to see a lot of dif-ferent islands depending on the length of your cruise. The yacht charter itinerary includes Venice, Manasota Key, Little Gasparilla Island and Boca Grande, Cayo Costa and Cabbage Key, Captiva and Sanibel islands all the way down to historic Fort Myers. All full day and overnight cruising packages offer free round-trip luxury limousine transfers within a 60-mile radius of Englewood.

The yacht charter itinerary includes Venice, Manasota

Key, Little Gasparilla Island and Boca

Grande, Cayo Costa and Cabbage

Key, Captiva and Sanibel islands all

the way down to historic Fort Myers.


Gulf Island Tours is the area’s only tour company that offers free limousine service. Limousine rent-als are also available for special occasions. People from all walks of life, from lands near and far have enjoyed the luxu-rious Chrysler 300 Su-per Stretch limousine. It features color changing

LED lights, two flat screen TVs with a DVD player and phenomenal sound system. Many people have said, “It’s almost a destination in its own right!” The company has a vast DVD music video collection for your enjoyment and of course, you can enjoy the beverages of your choice. What a welcoming retreat after a long day of traveling to Florida.

Guests flying into Florida for their three-night platinum package charter are chauffeured by limousine to local grocery stores in order to purchase provisions for their trip. Says An-gela, “It’s the perfect way to break the ice with people embarking upon a long boat journey. I really enjoy helping people prepare for their journey out to sea. It’s all part of the excite-ment, and I can make sure they have what they need to be completely comfortable.”

In addition to yacht charters, Gulf Island Tours offers full day tours and sunset cruises on their 30-foot double decker pontoon boat, The H2O Limo. Prepare to be dazzled as this boat is fully customized and features blue LED lights, two flat screen TVs with DVD player and a jam-ming sound system complete with Sirius satel-lite radio. The H2O Limo features large sofas on the bow, large shaded areas for dining, a small bathroom and galley and another huge sofa on the stern. The main charter areas for the H2O Limo include Venice, Stump Pass Beach, Don Pedro Island, Palm Island, Boca Grande, Matlacha and Cabbage Key. This boat can also be rented as a bareboat rental for experi-enced boaters. All full day H2O Limo charters also include complimentary limousine service for the residents and visitors of Charlotte County. Special reduced limousine prices are offered for people outside of these areas for added convenience.

If these offerings aren’t enough to excite you, there’s more. Gulf Island Tours also has a cou-ple of great skiff boats that can be rented by the day, week or longer if you have your own dock. They will deliver the rental boats to Little Gasparilla Island, Boca Grande, Venice, Punta Gorda for free and to Pine Island, Cape Coral and Bokellia for a nominal fee. These easy-to-handle skiffs are perfect shallow running boats for flats fishing, mangrove touring or for go-ing shelling on our wonderful beaches. Both boats have all USCG safety equipment, live bait tanks, GPS Sonar fish finders along with big coolers for your catch of the day.

If you are visiting the area or are local residents looking for a fun and intriguing recreational alternative that’s sure to please everyone in your crowd, contact Gulf Island Tours at (941) 505-8687 or visit www.gulfislandtours.com.

In addition to yacht charters, Gulf Island Tours offers full day tours and sunset cruises on their

30-foot double decker pontoon boat, The H2O Limo.


Patriotic Sailfish Cruiser Paddleboard

The Cruiser is the most stable board in the line. Featuring a flatter, stretched out deck and full rails to provide more volume and more stability, the Cruiser is our most popular model for flatwater recreation. It has a single to double concave on the bottom for easier paddling, yet still versatile enough for an experienced rider to take into smaller surf or rivers. The one piece pad design and full deck area makes this a favorite board for Yoga enthusiasts. Built with a 1.5lb EPS core, the Cruiser stays lightweight for ease of carrying and transportation. Features a GoPro Mount with Accessory Grommets, FCS Handle with Integrated Vent, Futures Long Box & FCS Sidebite 2+1 Fin Set Up and Leash Plug. ($1,995.00) Available at www.guyharveyart.com


Island Must-Haves

Turtle Pro Angler Full Graphic Paddleboard

Whether out on the lake, a secret spot in the mangroves, or even in the ocean... our Pro Angler model is built to reel in your next big haul. Designed for the true fisherman, this board has a tri-hull nose design that leads into a quad concave through the tail. This keeps the board tracking straight while keeping quiet. A quad fin setup with a 4” draft enables the rider to go into shallow waters where boats can’t. Although designed for fishing, riders can utilize this board in swamps and shallow waters for hunting too. The stability is unmatched yet the board is still easy to maneuver and carry. Grommets are strategically placed along the top of the rails around the entire outline of the board to use as tie-downs for equipment or accessories. Features a GoPro Mount with Accessory Grommets, FCS Handle with Integrated Vent, FCS Fusion Quad Fin Setup, Leash Plug and Futures Long Box. ($1,995.00) Available at www.guyharveyart.com

Sailfish Cruiser Paddleboard

The Cruiser is the most stable board in the line. Featuring a flatter, stretched out deck and full rails to provide more volume and more stability, the Cruiser is our most popular model for flatwater recreation. It has a single to double concave on the bottom for easier paddling, yet still versatile enough for an experienced rider to take into smaller surf or rivers. The one piece pad design and full deck area makes this a favorite board for Yoga enthusiasts. Built with a 1.5lb EPS core, the Cruiser stays lightweight for ease of carrying and transportation. Features a GoPro Mount with Accessory Grommets, FCS Handle with Integrated Vent, Futures Long Box & FCS Sidebite 2+1 Fin Set Up and Leash Plug. ($1,595.00) Available at www.guyharveyart.com


Get Hooked

Get hooked or shackled by Jack. 14 Carat gold or sterling silver. For more information call (941) 964-2469.

Natural Body Bug Spray

Enjoy the outdoors and respect nature. Don’t forget your Coastal Quality 100% Natural Body Bug Spray. Made with certified pure essential oils ensuring that it is eco-friendly. Rave reviews from customers from all over the USA and Costa Rica. Safe for kiddos to grandmas. ($11) at www CoastalQuality.com, (941) 815-2077.

Plantation Shutters

Custom Wood Plantation Shutters in louver sizes up to 4 1/2”. Vinyl also available for shower and lanai applications. Available at Creative Window Treatments, 4880 Placida Rd., Englewood (941) 528-0000 and 254 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd., Punta Gorda, (941) 637-0015


Island Must-Haves

Ladies Diamond Sideways Cross RingAvailable in 14K yellow, white or rose gold. 10ct. TW diamonds. ($279). It can be seen only at Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold, Venice. (941) 497-6331, www.classiccreationsjewelers.com

Shell Series 2010

Inspired by seashells strewn about the beach near Annie’s home by the Monterey Bay. Available at Props for the Home 2961 Placida Rd, Englewood. (941) 697-3881

Shell Series

Inspired by seashells strewn about the beach near Annie’s home by the Monterey Bay, two pieces from this series can be found in the permanent collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum Available at Props for the Home 2961 Placida Rd, Englewood. (941) 697-3881

Shells

Curvy, curly freeform interpretations of sea shells in three bowl sizes. Shells offer many choices for gift giving and entertaining, but don’t let that limit your creativity. These bowls have many uses on any shoreline. Available in Ultramarine or Fog. Available at Props for the Home 2961 Placida Rd, Englewood. (941) 697-3881

Mortlach Rare Old

The opening entry in the super-premium Mortlach range, combining bourbon and sherry matured whisky to create a spicy, rich and flavoursome dram that shows off the distillery’s fantastic spirit. Available at BNT Liquors and Fine Wines, 8725 Placida Road, Placida. (941) 698-1101.


Island Must-Haves

16261 N Island Ct, Boca Grande

One of Boca Grande’s finest homes on the largest and most private beach! Acreage, with lots of space featuring 4 bedrooms and 5 and a half bathrooms. This exceptionally well built, “Colonial, Plantation Style” Masterpiece is something to behold! You enter into quality features including: Red and White Oak, Navona Travertine flooring and columns, beautiful wood kitchen cabinets and living room library/entertainment shelving, numerous detailed raised wood ceilings throughout. Reverse Osmosis (drinking) water system, water softening system, new HVAC, new water heaters, new appliances, new

Boca Grande Beach Club

320 Gulf Blvd, #4B, Boca Grande

Price! Price! Price! Completely redesigned ground floor corner condominium with excellent southern exposure... lots of light. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus bonus bunkroom space. Granite counter tops, washer/dryer, stainless appliances, all new plumbing fixtures throughout. Crown molding, tile floorings, tray ceilings, recessed lighting with new fixtures throughout, new paddle fans, queen sleeper sofa in the den / living room... a newer refinished unit at a most affordable price! Close to the village just south of town, excellent beach and a centerpiece, resort style, community pool. This is the one you have been waiting for... $499,000. For more information, call Bob Melvin at Gulf Shores International Properties (941) 380-8891.

lighting, central vacuum system. security system, a propane powered back-up generator system and so much more... Exterior features include: spectacular Tropical Landscape, brick paver circular drive with a cast concrete fountain, fenced beach side pool and spa, beautiful shell stone decking, both covered and open, out-door shower and raised boardwalk with bench seating out to the most incredible gulf front beach! Like new, well maintained in perfect condition. A beach front plantation you could make your own... $6,350,000. For more information, call Bob Melvin at Gulf Shores International Properties (941) 380-8891.


Supervise that Florida Sunshine

Silhouettes Signature S-Vane™ is designed to let you control of the amount of natural light that comes in by diffusing light and spreading it evenly throughout your room. Dressing your windows in beautiful sheer fabrics to softly filter sunlight, glare, and damaging UV rays — protecting your furniture and flooring from fading. Contact Harbor Home Services for your professional consultation, (941) 698-1133


Island Must-Haves

Ladies Diamond Hoop Earrings.20ct. Total Weight Diamond Hoop Earrings set in 14K white gold ($299). It can be seen only at Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold, Venice. (941) 497-6331, www.classiccreationsjewelers.com

Necklace Blue Topaz or Amethyst “Y” Necklace in yellow or white gold ($199). It can be seen only at Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold, Venice. (941) 497-6331, www.classiccreationsjewelers.com

The Fishin Zombie Performance Shirt

Your eyes aren’t lying to you: you’re looking at a snook, redfish and tarpon zombie. After months of fighting off hundreds of zombies and losing a couple shipping guys along the way, we were final-ly able to get a glimpse of these zombie fish near Key West, FL. ($48.50) Available at www.fishyitchy.com


FirefliesTwinkling Diamonds by Fireflies styles starting at $869 to $11,999. It can be seen only at Classic Creations in Diamonds & Gold, Venice. (941) 497-6331, www.classiccreationsjewelers.com

Limited Edition MaxiJetCelebrating the 50th anniversary of Padron cigars, S.T. Dupont has released only 500 of these limited edition MaxiJet sets. Available at Tobacco Locker, 17506 Brighton Ave. Unit E, Port Charlotte, (941) 255-8825

S.T. Dupont Lighter

Since 1872, S.T. Dupont has been producing luxury accessories using precious materials and time-craft-ed techniques. Available at Tobacco Locker, 17506 Brighton Ave. Unit E, Port Charlotte, (941) 255-8825

Live Blue Oversized Tote

Presenting Guy Harvey Totes, Handbags, and duffle bags. These colorful all canvas bags feature the latest one of a kind Guy Harvey Designs. These bags are perfect for your day to day errands or a trip to the beach. Show your pas-sion for the ocean with a Guy Har-vey Tote and Handbag! Measures 20’’x5.5’’x15’’ ($48.00) Available at www.guyharveyart.com

Mer Sea Candles

Made in the USA in small batches with only the finest ingredients... Mer-Sea & Co’s signature Sandbag Candle. Available at Props for the Home 2961 Placida Rd, Englewood. (941) 697-3881


Island Must-Haves

Bayfront

573 Buttonwood Bay Drive ($2,495,000). Contact Randy Wojcik, Broker/Realtor (941) 204-0015 discoverbocagrande.com

Elevator

Boca Bay - 788 Beach View ($755,000). Contact Randy Wojcik, Broker/Realtor (941) 204-0015 discoverbocagrande.com

New Listing

BG Club Marina Manor 42 ($1,575,000). Contact Randy Wojcik, Broker/Realtor (941) 204-0015 discoverbocagrande.com


There is Nothing on the Water That Rides Like a Regulator

A legend born of an invincible spirit and a dedication to building the finest in offshore sportfishing boats. Regulators are high-quality, built one hull at a time, for a select few. Serious anglers demand the best. And you’ll find Only the Best at The Boat House in Port Charlotte, Cape Coral and Naples. www.Boathousecc.com


Snapshots of Boca Grande’s Historic Past

Albert Lowe with mullet


Port Boca Grande in the late 1940s and early 1950s

Findlay Griffin with a string of fish on the phosphate dock.

Photos provided by State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory & Boca Grande Historical Society & Museum


Once Upon an Island

Streetcar that ran to south dock on the railroad tracks between 1910 - 1920.

The old railroad track being torn up to make way for the bike path.


Photo by Curt Bowen


On the Wild Side

A man who sits under a tree and dreams makes more journey than a man who goes around the world without dreaming! – Mehmet Murat ildan



Business Directory

AdvertisingROI Media(941) 257-435214870 Tamiami TrailNorth Port, FL 34287www.roimedia.us

Animal ServicesMote Marine Laboratory480 E. Railroad Ave, Unit 7Boca Grande, FL 33921www.mote.org/boca

Suncoast Humane Society(941) 474-78846781 San Casa Dr.Englewood, FL 34224

Apparel & GiftsAntique BoutiqueLocated in the Train Depotwww.antiqueboutique.us

Ariel Ltd.(941) 964-0480444 4th StreetBoca Grande, FL 33921 www.arielltd.com

Capt. Chris Combrink & Associates(352) 226-6688400 Park AveBoca Grande, FL 33921

D.C. Home Staging & Decor(480) 773-4321

Fresh Produce(941) 964-0800411 Park AveBoca Grande, FL 33921www.freshproduceclothes.com

Fugate’s(941) 964-2323428 4th St WBoca Grande, FL 33921

Props for the Home(941) 697-38812961 Placida Rd.Englewood, FL 34224

The Palm on Park(866) 964-4448444 4th StreetBoca Grande, FL 33921 www.thepalmonpark.com

BedsBed Masters(941) 766-91224105 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, FL 33952www.bedmasters.com

Blinds & ShuttersClark Shutter Service(941) 237-6778www.clarkshutterservice.com

Creative Window Treatments(941) 828-00004880 Placida RoadEnglewood, FL 34224www.mycreativewindow.com

BoatingBeach Road Watersports(941) 475-90991350 Beach RoadEnglewood, FL 34223www.beachroadwatersports.net

Cavana Classic Charters(941) 875-4946PO Box 357Boca Grande, FL 33921www.cavanacharters.com

Pier One Yacht Sales(941) 697-77778501 Placida RdCape Haze, FL 33946www.pieroneyachtsales.com

West Wall Shallow Water Outfitters(941) 875-6930787 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, FL 33953www.westwallboats.com

BridalCharlotte Bridal Boutique & Formalwear Tuxedos(941) 255-12052395 Tamiami Trail #106Port Charlotte, FL 33952www.charlottebridal.biz


ConstructionMVM Custom Homes(941) 815-6459www.mvmch.com Pools

Peter Benjamin Surfaces(941) 677-8833www.peterbenjaminsurfaces.com

Truex Preferred Construction(941) 475-6680579 S. Indiana Avenue, Suite AEnglewood, FL 34223www.truexpreferredconstruction.com

DentalDavis & Beyer Dental Health Professionals(941) 488-10751218 E. Venice AveVenice, FL 34285www.venicedentist.com

FlooringFriendly Floors(941) 624-00773785 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, FL 33952www.friendlyfloors.com

GasAccurate Gas & Plumbing(941) 893-8423www.accurategnp.com

Golf & Golf CartsBobcat Trail Golf Club(941) 429-05011350 Bobcat TrailNorth Port, FL 34288www.bobcattrailgc.com

Caddy Carts(941) 474-474712691 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, Fl 34287www.caddy-carts.com

Hair Salon & SpaKyle Kurtis Salon & Spa(941) 830-834413435 S. McCall RdPort Charlotte, FL 33981www.kyle-kurtis.com

JewelerClassic Creations in Diamonds & Gold(941) 497-63312389 Tamiami Trail. SVenice, FL 34293www.classiccreationsjewelers.com

Lawn CareCoastal Quality Services, Inc.(239) 344-9326(941) 815-2077www.coastalquality.com

LiquorsBnT Liquors and Fine Wines(941) 698-10118725 Placida RoadPlacida, FL 33946

MedicalRTR Urology(941) 485-3351 (24hr)842 Sunset Lake Blvd.Suite 403Venice, FL 34292

MuseumsBoca Grande Lighthouse Museum(941) 964-0060Barrier Island Parks Society880 Belcher RoadBoca Grande, FL 33921www.barrierislandparkssociety.org

PhotographyPhotographic Images(941) 475-51487233 Summer StreetEnglewood, FL 34224www.heidemariephoto.com

PoolsA&M Professional Pool Renovations, LLC.(941) 623-8459www.wefixuglypoolsfla.com

Nautilus Pools, Inc.(941) 624-574418380 Paulson Dr.Port Charlotte, FL 33954

Real EstateGulf Coast International Properties(941) 380-8891411 Park AveBoca Grande, FL 33921www.gcipbocagrande.com

Hendricks & Associates of Boca Grande(941) 964-3006 428 4th St WBoca Grande, FL 3392www.hendricksassociates.com

Michael Saunders & CompanyKevin HydeOffice: (941) 964-2000Direct: (941) 628-4730420 E Railroad Ave Boca Grande, FL 33921www.bocagrandelistings.com

Michael Saunders & CompanyMarybeth TvarochOffice: (941) 964-2000Direct: (941) 814-4202420 E Railroad Ave Boca Grande, FL 33921www.bocagrandeisliving.com

Parsley Baldwin Realty(941) 964-2700www.parsley-baldwinrealty.com

Restaurants & HotelsLoose Caboose(941) 964-0440433 W. Fourth StreetBoca Grande, FL 33921www.loosecaboose.biz

Zydeco Grille(941) 828-14728501 Placida RoadCape Haze, FLwww.zydecogrille.com

RoofingMark Kaufman Roofing(941) 473-3605www.markkaufmanroofing.com

SecuritySecurity Alarm Corporation(941) 625-970017776 Toledo Blade Blvd.Port Charlotte, FL 33948www.securityalarmcorp.com

SurveyingShremshock Surveying, Inc.(941) 423-8875www.shremshocksurveying.com

TobaccoTobacco Locker(941) 255-882517506 Brighton Ave - Unit EPort Charlotte, FL 33954www.tobaccolocker.com

Travel AgencyBoca Grande Travel(941) 964-02005800 Gasparilla RoadBoca Grande, FL 33921www.bocagrandetravel.com


It’s five o’clock somewhere...

Brought to you by BNT Liquors

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 cup ice cubes

1.5 ounce vodka

¾ cup spicy tomato-vegetable juice cocktail

2 dashes Worcestershire sauce

1 dash hot pepper sauce

salt and pepper to taste

1 stalk celery

2 stuffed green olives

Salt the rim of a tall glass and fill with ice cubes. Combine the vodka, veg-etable juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, salt and pepper in a shaker of ice. Shake vigorously and strain into the glass. Garnish with a stalk of celery and olives.

Bloody Mary

· Coast for seashells include Sanibel Island and Captiva Island near Fort Myers, Venice Beach and...

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Transcript of · Coast for seashells include Sanibel Island and Captiva Island near Fort Myers, Venice Beach and...