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Parsley-Baldwin Realty
1st Boca Grande
Authentic Lobster Bake
Invites you in to their
exclusive properties.
March 29 at Rangelight Beach
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26
Extreme Photography
Last month the Boca Grande
Camera Club had a very special guest.
Cover photo
Provided by Parsley-Baldwin
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BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
In Focus
Toast to the Coast
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Hank Wright Silent Auction, Live
Auction and Golf Tournament
In Benefit of the Boca Grande
Health Clinic
33
Florida International Air Show
March 29 - 30 at the
Charlotte County Airport
On the Cover 13
Parsley-Baldwin Realty Invites you in to their exclusive properties.
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Staff List
Adam & Danette Bartolotta
Publishers
Jessica Hobbs
Managing Editor
Jessica Tenbusch
Writer
Joyce Cattelane
Copy Editor
Skylar Bartolotta
Intern Writer
Lynda Venditti
Art Director
Jason Alexander
Graphic Designer
Barbara Zufall
Administrative Assistant
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Wading Adventure
Learn About the Estuary Underworld
Departments
Photographic Images by Heidemarie
Contributing Photographer
10
Island Talk
Highlights on Local Business
42
Fact or Fable
The Spirits of Old Port
Boca Grande Lighthouse
46
Island Must Haves
Products That You’ll Love
59
Once Upon an Island
Snapshots of
Boca Grande’s Historic Past
64
Business Directory
Resources at Your Fingertips
66
It’s five o’clock Somewhere
Cocktail Recipe
For advertising information, please
call ROI Media at (941) 257-4352
To contact the Editorial Department,
please e-mail [email protected]
www.roimedia.us
www.bocagrandemagazine.com
Please mail any correspondence to:
Boca Grande Magazine
14870 Tamiami Trail #A-202
North 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.
follow us on
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Island Talk
Enjoy a Cigar in a Comfortable Setting
Does your
business have
something
to say?
If you would like to
have your business
news featured in this
section, please call
(941) 257-4352.
The Tobacco Locker, located in Port Charlotte,
is owned and operated by Bill and Lynn Davies.
They offer a wide selection of cigars and ship
them all over the world, including to the troops
in Afghanistan. They started an online business
six years ago and when it took off they decided
to open their storefront, which offers a plethora
of fine cigar brands. Their lounge, which includes comfortable leather chairs and a walk-in
humidor, is constructed entirely of 100 percent
Honduran cedar. Bill and Lynn take great pride
in the fastidious condition in which they keep
their cigars, maintaining a 70-degree temperature and 70 percent humidity in their humidor.
They annually take trips to countries where they
buy cigars and often take customers with them.
All of the cigars that the Tobacco Locker carries
are handmade and range from $2 to $30. The
Tobacco Locker rents lockers where customers
can store their personal collections. In addition
to the cigars, they sell wine and a wide selection
of craft beers. They will work with you to pair
beers and wines with the flavor of specific cigars.
Visit them online at www.tobaccolocker.com or
visit their physical location at 17506 Brighton
Ave., Unit E, Port Charlotte. (941) 255-8825.
ence. Our professional craftsmen are skilled in
their specialties and use nothing but the best
of materials, offering our customers excellent
quality. You will appreciate the creative workmanship, attention to detail and the fit and
finish upon completion. Call or email us for
your own personal consultation to guide you
through the process. (941) 321-4090, mvmch.
[email protected] or visit www.mvmch.com.
Nautilus Pools
Since 1989, with over 2,300 satisfied clients,
Nautilus Pools has been awarded 9 International Awards and 12 State Design Awards.
What does it take to garner these accolades?
Quality products, superior construction and
luxurious custom design!
Give us a call and let us design your new pool
or remodel your existing pool! Visit our office at
18380 Paulson Drive, Port Charlotte, FL 33954.
www.NautilusPoolsUSA.com, (941) 624-5744.
MVM Custom Homes
MVM is a premier custom home-building
company in North Port that is known for its
surpassing quality, integrity and design. We
offer affordable prices and build what our clients desire. Our goal is simple: to construct
high quality homes with the finest of materials
while keeping your project within your family’s budget. Making our clients’ wants and
desires come true is what we do best. Do you
love your home, your neighbors, your neighborhood? You might not want to build a new
home or move elsewhere, but instead make a
change to your existing home. We are here for
you. While providing an unparalleled level of
personal service and ultimate customer satisfaction for our clients, we specialize in remodeling, renovations and additions and have
endless creative ideas while building within
your budget. From kitchen cabinets and countertops to whole room additions, we do it all.
MVM Custom Homes is licensed and insured
and has more than 14 years of building experi10
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Dunes of Boca Just Sold in 7 Days!
Just Sold in 7 Days! The Dunes of Boca is 40
beachfront villas all with three bedrooms and
three baths with enclosed garages. This gated
community, is located on the north end just 4.1
miles from the village. All villas face the Gulf of
Mexico and offer exceptional views. The beach
is wide and private and a natural dune area offers opportunities to observe gopher turtles
and iguanas. There are two tennis courts and
two heated pools for your enjoyment. Lake
Gasparilla is across the street and offers many
birding opportunities. If you are interested in
buying or selling a Dunes of Boca villa or any
other property on Gasparilla Island, I will be
happy to assist you. Please visit my website
BocaGrandeIsLiving.com or call Marybeth
Tvaroch at (941) 815-4202.
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Parsley-Baldwin Realty
Invites you in to their exclusive properties.
Parsley-Baldwin Realty has been in business for over 25 years. We
feature Boca Grande’s most luxurious properties.Parsley-Baldwin
Realty is THE best choice for Real Estate Sales, Vacation Rentals and
New Construction. Discover the magic of Gasparilla Island as a resident,
whether you are an owner or renter we will guide you through the
experience. We have the largest selection of vacation rentals on island.
Why not join our rental program and maximize your return.
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Gorgeous Grande Bay
647 Boca Bay Drive
$6,750,000
5 bedroom, 4 full bath and 2 half bath home in
beautiful Boca Bay. This waterfront home features Gulf and Harbor views from every room,
pool, boat dock, guest suite, gourmet kitchen,
elevator, outdoor entertainment area, club
amenities, lush landscaping. This property is
featured on the cover of this issue.
Contact Anthony Maurceri at 941-964-2700 or
800-741-3074. [email protected]
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Spectacular
New Construction
211 Banyan Street
$5,500,000
Located directly on the Gulf of Mexico this 4
bedroom 5 bath custom home offers the best
of both worlds; new construction situated in
the islands oldest Gulf front neighborhood
within the charming Historic District. Enjoy
magnificent Gulf views, master suite with den,
gourmet kitchen, pool & spa, private baths for
each guest suite. Delivered January 2015
Contact Anthony Maurceri at 941-964-2700 or
800-741-3074. [email protected]
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Gulf front Property
2949 Shore Lane
$5,450,000
Located on a private road, situated between
the Gulf of Mexico and a tropical lagoon.
Open floor plan with high ceilings and custom
window placements designed to fill the home
with natural light and stunning Gulf views.
Large master suite with private office, his &
hers baths complimented by 3 guest suites and
4 additional baths. Custom kitchen, elevator,
outdoor living area and many other custom
features & finishes.
Contact Brett Hendricks at 941-286-7533 or
941-964-2700 [email protected]
Bay Front Property
1756 Jose Gaspar Drive
$3,125,000
Enjoy exquisite bay views from almost every
inch of this 4 bedroom 7 bath home in Boca
Grande Isles features pool, high ceilings, 2 fireplaces, custom boat dock with two lifts. This
waterfront home is priced to facilitate remodeling should you desire. Plans available and renderings displayed.
Contact Brett Hendricks at 941-286-7533 or
941-964-2700 [email protected]
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Luxury Vacation Rentals
Parsley-Baldwin Realty has been in business for over 25 years. We feature Boca Grande’s most
luxurious properties. Discover the magic of Gasparilla Island as a resident... whether you are an
owner or renter, we will guide you through the experience. Weekly & Monthly Rates Available.
121 Gilchrist Avenue “Las Olas”
This beachfront property sleeps up to 12 people, 6 bedroom,
6 bath home features 2 hot tubs, pool, lush landscaping,
located in the Historic District directly on the Gulf of
Mexico. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets and privacy in this beautiful
beachfront rental property.
Contact our rental specialists at 941-964-2700
or 800-741-3074. [email protected]
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805 Belcher Road
South end
3/3 Home
$2,195,000.
1674 Jose Gaspar Drive
Boca Grande Isles
4/4.5 Home
$3,250,000.
813 & 815 Belcher Road
South end
2/2 Town homes
Dunes of Boca 33
North end
3/3 Town home
$1,150,000.
$1,999,000
411 Palm Avenue
Boca Grande Village
Commercial Property
$895,000.
701 South Harbor Drive
Boca Bay
3/3 Kentia
$ 865,000.
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250 Wheeler Road
Close to beach & village
3/2 Home
$1,145,000.
Boca Grande North
2/2 Condominiums
68 $399,000.
82 $459,000.
211 Wheeler Road
Close to beach & village
3/2 Home
$825,000.
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Hacienda Del Mar
Unit G306
3/2.5 Condominium
$595,000.
825 Belcher Road
South end
3/2 Home
$1,395,000.
772 Beachview Drive
Boca Bay
3/3 Kentia
$829,000.
Boca Grande North
Boat Slips & Lifts
#46 $74,000.
#8 $78,000.
Eagle Preserve
9811 & 9821 Eagle
PreserveLots
$329,000.
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Extreme Photography
Last month the Boca Grande Camera Club
had a very special guest.
Photos by Curt Bowen
Twenty-Five years of professional photography has allowed Curt Bowen to travel from the Arctic
Circle, throughout the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Aruba, China and into
the furthest regions of the Amazon. During this time he has worked on multiple network film productions including projects from Animal Planet, National Geographic and the Discovery Channel.
Specializing in extreme underwater and cave photography, Curt has traveled the northern and
southern hemispheres on dozens of expeditions capturing images of places and relics never before
seen by human eyes.
Curt is CEO and founder of Advanced Diver Magazine, coordinator for the ADM Exploration
Team, and president of the 501c3 ADM Exploration Foundation. For more information on Curt
Bowen or to purchase his art please visit www.curtbowen.com.
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Traditionally
prepared in New
England rock
seaweed and
cooked onsite,
this dinner will
include lobster,
clams, potatoes,
corn on the cob,
dessert and coffee.
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1st Boca Grande
Authentic Lobster Bake
The Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding their first Boca Grande Authentic
Lobster Bake on Saturday, March 29 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. Proceeds of the event will benefit
the Chamber of Commerce in its continuing pursuit to bring the community first class quality
local events and continued successful management of the Educate Boca scholarship program.
The event will take place at Rangelight Beach in Boca Grande. Traditionally prepared in New
England rock seaweed and cooked onsite, this dinner will include lobster, clams, potatoes, corn
on the cob, dessert and coffee. Tickets are $65 per person and only a limited number of tickets are
available, so be sure to plan ahead for a day of fun, food and entertainment for the entire family.
Tickets can be purchased at the Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce office, Englewood
Bank in Boca Grande or The Boca Beacon office. For more information, call (941) 964-0568.
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IN FOCUS
1
Toast to the Coast
to Benefit the Lemon Bay Conservancy 2014
1. Guests enjoying dinner
2. David & Laurie Dignam, Beth & Jim Harrison,
Leslie Dignam Edwards, Joni Hyde,
Natalie and Phil Stutzman
3. Julie & Homer Hoe
4. Jim Cooper & Vanessa Smith
5. Marvin Medintz & Percy Angelo
6. Jim Cooper and Hilary Dahms
7. Speaker, LA Ainger science teacher Reana Montwheler
5
Photos: Photographic Images by Heidemarie
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Hank Wright Silent and Live
Auction and Hank Wright
Golf Tournament
In Benefit of the Boca Grande Health Clinic
Thursday and Friday, April 3 – April 4
Written by Jessica Tenbusch
Twenty-two years ago, the Boca Grande Health Clinic Foundation developed a plan to raise funds in support of the Boca
Grande Health Clinic, a non-profit organization that provides
medical care to the people of Gasparilla Island. The clinic,
which is supported by the generosity of the community, has
been running since 1947. To this day, board-certified physicians provide ongoing primary and urgent healthcare services
to the entire community. Unfortunately, the clinic is unable to
be fully supported by patient fees alone due to its diverse level
of healthcare services. Mary Anne Hastings, managing director of Boca Grande Health Clinic Foundation, said, “Due to
the island’s seasonality and the costs associated with owning
commercial real estate and operating a professional primary
and urgent care clinic on Boca Grande, the clinic operates
on a $1 million plus deficit per year.” This is why the annual
Hank Wright Silent and Live Auction and Hank Wright Golf
Tournament were created. Not only have these exceptional
events made a notable impact on the success of the clinic, they
are actually the only special event fundraisers held in support
of the clinic each year. Mary Anne stated, “We raise between
$150,000 and $250,000 from the event and that money, together with our annual appeal and proceeds from our endowment, make up the necessary funds to keep the clinic open.”
This year’s Hank Wright Silent and Live Auction and Hank
Wright Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, April 3
– Friday, April 4 at the Gasparilla Inn Beach Club and the
Lemon Bay Golf Club.
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The tournament
will be held at the
Lemon Bay Golf
Club, located at
9600 Eagle Preserve
Drive in Englewood.
Both events will
offer a unique,
relaxed setting
where guests will
be able to unwind
in the benefit of the
beloved Boca Grande
Health Clinic.
Dr. Henry L. Wright, also known as Hank
Wright, was a quintessential island doctor
on Boca Grande for nearly 26 years during
the 1970s, 80s and 90s. He lent his name to
the auction and tournament shortly after he
retired. Dr. Wright was an active part of not
only the clinic, but of the community itself. He
joined the clinic in September 1973, and was
the only doctor on the island for 17 years. He
was, and still is, one of the most influential
people in support of the clinic and its future.
Mary Anne said, “He loved the island so much
that he stayed on it even after he retired.” The
tournament and auction not only acts in benefit of the clinic but also in recognition of Hank
Wright himself.
On Thursday, April 3, the Hank Wright Silent
and Live Auction will be held from 6:00 PM –
8:00 PM. An anticipated 250 – 300 guests are
expected to join in on a laidback cocktail party,
followed by the auctions. The silent auction
will close between 7:00 PM – 7:15 PM, and
from there the live auction will begin. Mary
Anne noted, “It’s strictly a cocktail party and
all the emphasis is on the bidding. It is always
fun to see the community come out in force
because they not only love having the clinic
on the island but so many need to have it in
order to be here.” The auction will offer dinners, parties, trips, clothing, wine and perhaps
even a boat or car. The cost of the event is $75
per person and will be held at the Gasparilla
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Inn Beach Club, located at 450 Gilchrist Ave.
in Boca Grande.
On Friday, April 4, the Hank Wright Golf Tournament will take place. Teams of five players
will each compete to win beautifully unique
Nambé serveware and barware, which will be
donated by Joan and John Hillenbrand. As in
the past, a full field of 25 teams are expected to
participate. Mary Anne said, “Prizes are awarded to the team posting the low gross score and
for the top seven low net scoring teams.” Registration and continental breakfast will begin at
8:00 AM and the tee off will begin at 9:00 AM.
Lunch will be served on the course and Mary
Anne says that everyone always loves the brats.
The day will end with an awards ceremony and
reception once the last team is finished. Registration begins on Saturday, March 1st, and the
cost of the event is $275 per player. The tournament will be held at the Lemon Bay Golf Club,
located at 9600 Eagle Preserve Drive in Englewood. Both events will offer a unique, relaxed
setting where guests will be able to unwind in
the benefit of the beloved Boca Grande Health
Clinic. As Mary Anne stated, “My favorite part
is the casual atmosphere of the events.”
For more information on the Hank Wright
Silent and Live Auction and Hank Wright
Golf Tournament or on the Boca Grande
Health Clinic, call (941) 964-0099 or email
[email protected].
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March 29 - 30 at the Charlotte County Airport
Florida International
Air Show
Lima Lima Flight team performing at Thunder over Louisville. Thunder opens a two-week celebration which ends with the
Kentucky Derby on the first Saturday in May. Photo: Joe Schneid, Louisville, Kentucky
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AIRSHOW
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds perform the “diamond opener” to start the show at Travis AFB, California on July 31, 2011.
(U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt Richard Rose Jr.)
“Generally, people think of WWII, Vietnam and the Korean conflict
when they think of veterans. However, we have many young people
coming home from overseas who are veterans and who also deserve
strong recognition for their sacrifices and contributions.”
– Lindsey Barfield,
director of marketing and communications for the Florida International Air Show
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AIRSHOW
Crew No. 1 in front of B-25 #40-2344 on the deck of USS Hornet, 18 April 1942. From left to right:
(front row) Lt. Col. Doolittle, pilot; Lt. Richard E. Cole, copilot; (back row) Lt. Henry A. Potter,
navigator; SSgt. Fred A. Braemer, bombardier; SSgt. Paul J. Leonard, flight engineer/gunner.
(U.S. Air Force photo)
Written by Jessica Tenbusch
Thirty-four years ago, the first local international air show took place on a smallscale, as a one-day event, with only a few acts. Today, the Florida International Air
Show, which takes place at the Punta Gorda Airport, is a two-day, themed, one
of a kind event where several aerial performances demonstrate the latest and
greatest aircrafts while talented and brave pilots turn common thoughts of flight
into unbelievable and even death-defying feats beyond imagination. Specifically,
everything from extreme stunt pilots who fly high-speed military jets to gracious
gliders, and even acrobatic performers, will awe the anticipated 40,000 guests this
year. Themed “A Salute to Veterans,” the air show is in honor of all veterans, young
and old, and families of veterans, who have served our country. Lindsey Barfield,
director of marketing and communications for the Florida International Air Show,
stated, “Generally, people think of WWII, Vietnam and the Korean conflict when
they think of veterans. However, we have many young people coming home
from overseas who are veterans and who also deserve strong recognition for their
sacrifices and contributions.” In addition to some of the newer veterans being
honored, Richard Cole, a resilient WWII veteran and Doolittle Raider, and co-pilot of
Jimmy Doolittle himself, will be in attendance as an honorary guest. As Lindsey said,
“Richard is one of only two surviving Doolittle Raiders as we continue to lose what
has been dubbed as ‘America’s Greatest Generation’.” Adding to the air show itself,
many exhibits, displays, refreshments and kids’ areas will be available for enjoyment.
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Left: The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration
Squadron “Thunderbirds” perform the
Line Abreast Loop during the Gulf Coast
Salute and open house air show at
Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. Mar. 26, 2011.
(U.S. Air Force Photo/Staff Sgt.
Larry E. Reid Jr.)
U.S. Air Force Photo
Each year the community looks forward to the military jet team demonstrations. This year’s show will feature the United States Air Force
(USAF) Thunderbirds, also known as America’s Ambassadors in Blue.
The Thunderbirds are one of the oldest squadrons in the USAF and
their team consists of men who have endured years of training and experience. It will be their first time performing in Florida since the 2008
air show. Their performances will showcase their character, depicting
the true meaning of the Air Force through their precision, devotion and
candor, which can be recognized in each routine. The Thunderbirds
will be performing aerial demonstrations in an F-16C Fighting Falcon
as well as two F-16D twin-seats. A choreographed, drill-styled ground
ceremony will take place first. The demonstration will amaze spectators with unbelievable attention to detail and esprit de corps shown by
all enlisted members. In the air, jets will fly from wingtip to wingtip,
allowing the crowd to really see and understand the skills that fighter
pilots possess. Solo pilots will perform routines demonstrating the
most grandiose capabilities of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, at speeds just
under the speed of sound.
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AIRSHOW
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Operations Command Parachute Demonstration Team , 8 Way with Smoke
Other acts in the air will include performances by the Lima
Lima Flight Team, who perform in T-34s with no “dead
time;” P-51D Mustang Quick Silver, a jet made from over
200 Mustang parts built by a father and son team, Bill and
Scooter Yoak; U.S. Special Operations Command Parachute
Demonstration Team, who will perform precision free-fall
parachute demonstrations; F4U
Corsair, the most capable carrierbased fighter-bomber of World
War II; and the Curtiss JN-4, the
first aircraft purchased in quantity
by the American military. On the
ground, performances will take
place by Jerry McCart, driving the
Wicked Willy, one of the fastest jet
cars on the runway; and the Boogieman band, which will be performing on Saturday. Displays and
exhibits will include the L-26 Commander, a 1955-vintage Commander; the U.S. Navy C-1A,
the only remaining flying Carrier Onboard Delivery aircraft
of its kind; the AC-47 Gunship Spooky, and the Lockheed
L-12, an 8-seat, 6-passenger all-metal twin-engine transport
aircraft from the late 1930s. Being showcased both in the air
and on display will be the B-25 Panchito, one of the most
famous twin-engine medium bombers used in World War
II and the OV-1 Mohawk, a battlefield surveillance aircraft.
The Florida International Air Show is a non-profit entity,
and is also 100% volunteer based. Each year, proceeds from
the air show benefit dozens of Southwest Florida working
charities throughout the area. These charities that receive
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distribution are required to work for the event as volunteers. As Lindsey puts it, “It is a hand-up, rather than a
hand-out. The concept initially came out of a request from
the USAF Thunderbirds years ago.” On average, over 800
people volunteer annually. Additionally, the air show also
benefits three official charities that do not work the event:
The Make-A-Wish Foundation
serving Southwest Florida, Candlelighters of Southwest Florida
and the Ronald McDonald Charity. All of these charities provide
support and assistance to families
of children who suffer from cancer, blood disorders or any other
life-threatening conditions. On
Friday, March 28, these children
and their families will be invited
to a special luncheon where they’ll
be able to watch a practice performance of the air show as a private event, meet the pilots
and participate in a photo-shoot with the performers.
The Florida International Air Show offers general gate admission tickets as well as several other types of ticket upgrades. Children ages 6 – 12 will receive a reduced price
children’s ticket, and children less than 5 years of age are
free. Parking is $5 per vehicle; however, preferred parking
tickets can be bought for $10. It is recommended that sunscreen and event chairs are brought to the event, as well as
ear protection for the safety of young children.
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit
www.floridaairshow.com.
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Wading Adventure
Photos provided by Barrier Island Parks Society
On Thursday, March 27, Barrier Island Parks Society will offer a handson educational program to all members of the community in the form
of a wading quest. Wading Adventure programs will include collecting live specimens with nets and buckets, while children and adults of
all ages learn about the wonderful estuary underworld. The event will
begin with a brief interpretive program on sea creatures and a lesson
on how to properly capture the specimens. Following the lesson, participants will be able to begin their journey, where everything from sea
urchins to large mollusks may be found. Wading Adventures are scheduled to occur six – eight times a year. So far, each wading journey has
ended in the finding of at least 20 different species per trip. This month’s
Wading Adventure will take place at Gasparilla Island State Park,
located at 880 Belcher Road in Boca Grande from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM.
Twenty-five people will be able to attend. Parents or guardians must be
in attendance for safety reasons with any child under the age of 12. This
event is free for all BIPS members and $5 for non-members, not including $3 for parking. Reservations are required and space is limited. For
more information or to make a reservation, call (941) 964-0060 or email
[email protected].
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The peculiar presence of the girl is said to be her spirit, as she now
lives only in ghost form. Even today it is said that she can be seen
playing upstairs in a room, and always near the midnight hour.
Fact or Fable?
The Spirits of Old Port
Boca Grande Lighthouse
Written by Jessica Tenbusch
Gasparilla Island is home to many individuals, perhaps
to even a few of the paranormal. It has been known for
some time now that the Old Port Boca Grande Lighthouse holds a few ghostly legends. But where do these
come from? And are they factual or merely meant to be
swept under the rug? We’ll let you decide. Let’s start with
a brief history of the lighthouse. The lighthouse and the
keeper’s house—a smaller version of the lighthouse, was
built in 1890. Lighthouse keepers and their families not
only worked but also resided in the buildings from 1890
through 1951. For years these buildings functioned ordinarily; however, by 1970 both structures were nearly
destroyed due to an eroded shoreline. Fortunately, both
buildings were restored with the help of local organizations. In 1989, a nonprofit organization, Barrier Island
Parks Society, decided to create a museum inside the
lighthouse in order to honor its historic value. The museum opened in 1999, and soon unusual stories of the occult started swarming throughout the area.
One recurring tale was based on the young daughter of
one of the lighthouse keepers. Apparently, since the museum opening, she began to make regular visits. Under
normal circumstances this may not seem unusual; however, this particular girl had been deceased for years due
to what is said to have been either whooping cough or
diphtheria—both highly contagious bacterial infections
she had presumably caught while living in the dwelling.
The peculiar presence of the girl is said to be her spirit, as
she now lives only in ghost form. Even today it is said that
she can be seen playing upstairs in a room, and always
near the midnight hour. Legend also says that a former
park ranger who led tours at the museum said the young
girl could also be found close to the doorway of the second floor. Deciphering fact from fable may only be something to decide on one’s own time. So give the lighthouse
a visit, and pick which side of the story you will tell.
Photos by Lynda Venditti
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Reports say that the spirit of the princess Josefa can be found wandering
around the beach of Gasparilla Island searching for her head.
Written by Skylar Bartolotta
Old Port Boca Grande Lighthouse’s most popular legend is
that of the Spanish princess Josefa. It all began during the
end of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Spanish pirate Jose
Gaspar, also known as Gasparilla, is said to have been actively
pirating and hoarding his wealth of raided treasures on his
own island, Gasparilla Island. His initial crimes are said to
have involved plans to steal the crown jewels and kidnapping
a maiden for the ransom money. Princess Josefa was reportedly kidnapped by Gasparilla and he fell madly in love with
her. Josefa was not interested and refused his love. In a trance
of overpowering exasperation Gasparilla drew his sword and
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decapitated Josefa. Distraught and ashamed about what he
had done to Josefa, he collected her lifeless body and entombed her in the sand of Gasparilla Island. Legend says that
he did not want to leave her, so he carried her head around
with him on the rest of his adventures. Reports say that the
spirit of the princess Josefa can be found wandering around
the beach of Gasparilla Island searching for her head.
Today, the museum can be visited from 10:00 AM – 4:00
PM Monday – Saturday, and from 12:00 PM – 4:00PM on
Sunday from the months of November through May.
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Island Must-Haves
Wet Bikini Tote
Running late for your flight after enjoying the beach for
the day? This handy tote will hold your suit and keep your
other items from getting wet on the trip home. ($22)
At The Antique Boutique located in the Historic Train
Depot building.
Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream
The Great Escape
The “Quartermaster Collection” bracelets are carefully
hand-knotted in Rhode Island from our own locally twisted
nautical cord and high quality leather cord, combining the
natural elements of the leather with various weathered
New England ropes. Available at Fugate’s, 428 4th Street W
in Boca Grande. (941) 964-1200
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Think sheer moisturizing tint with benefits.
A true multitasking miracle that hydrates,
primes, illuminates and perfects leaving a
sheer bare skin finish. Specialized mineral
pigments that instantly adjust to your skin
shade allows one color to work for many. The sheer application can be built up for
just the right amount of coverage. In
addition, this amazing BB Cream formula
contains high performance anti-aging
botanical ingredients that revive and remineralize skin for a natural glow. Your
skin will look natural, dewy, youthful
and radiant without looking like you are
wearing heavy make-up. Available at
Fugate’s, 428 4th Street W in Boca Grande.
(941) 964-1200
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
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Island Must-Haves
Reef Rd Barrette, Ebby Earring & Ariel Ring
One of Fugate’s newest lines. These beautiful
nautical themed items are available at Fugate’s,
428 4th Street W in Boca Grande. (941) 964-1200
Janice Shift Dress
In the early years of our company, Lilly loved to add delicate
lace trims to a basic jacquard shift dress for a dose of feminine
charm. We continue this tradition today in new, modern
ways, like with our signature gold soutache trim on our Janice
Dress. Intricate swirling gold soutache dresses up the notched
neckline of this flattering v neck shift dress. Add flat sandals
and loose waves for a perfect post-beach party look. ($188) At
The Palm on Park, 444 4th Street, Boca Grande. (866) 964-4448
Hand Painted on Silk
Featuring Picasso-inspired artwork. Perfect for
dinner at The Pink or that special cocktail party.
($149) At The Antique Boutique located in the
Historic Train Depot building.
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Black Label Cigar Lighter – Black
The Black Label Cigar lighter has
four torch flames, cigar scissors and
a small and large diameter cigar
punch built into the lighter. ($69) at
Tobacco Locker, 17506 Brighton Ave.
Unit E in Port Charlotte, directly behind Southwest Florida College. (941)
255-8825, www.tobaccolocker.com
Louis XIII
Blended from 1,200 eaux-de-vie, aged up to 100 years, Louis XIII is “One
Century in a Bottle.” Created at a level of craftsmanship that is unmatched.
(Call for pricing and availability) BNT Liquors and Fine Wines, 8725 Placida
Road, Placida. (941) 698-1101.
Porsche Design Ashtrays
The Black Label stylish carbon fiber ashtray
features polished chrome cigar rests. Created by
Porsche design. ($80) Available at Tobacco Locker,
17506 Brighton Ave. Unit E in Port Charlotte,
directly behind Southwest Florida College. (941)
255-8825, www.tobaccolocker.com
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Island Must-Haves
Jacqueline Stripe Shirt in Delray Ocean
Sail away with the Jacqueline Stripe Shirt and forget your worries. The fun color
combos and narrow pattern gives a fun, figure-slimming update to your everyday
stripe. Pair with dark bottoms like our colored denim capri for a complementary
look. ($69) Available at Fresh Produce, 411 Park Ave. Boca Grande. (941) 964-0800,
www.freshproduceclothes.com
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e-Bike Innovation
Explore the island and beyond with this “go anywhere” urban/
suburban Polaris electric assisted bike. Polaris has three
different models to appeal to cyclists of different stripes and
types. ($2499) at Caddy Carts, 12691 Tamiami Trail, North Port.
(941) 474-4747, www.caddy-carts.com
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. Shake well and spray
exposed body parts fully and rub
into skin, covering as much as
possible. Reapply when needed.
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.
Garden Delight Boca Dress in Peri
Welcome spring with this romantic floral print. It’s an easy-towear pattern that is fun, fresh and feminine. ($69) Available
at Fresh Produce, 411 Park Ave. Boca Grande. (941) 964-0800,
www.freshproduceclothes.com
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
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Island Must-Haves
Forsyth Maxi Shift Dress
Liz Shift Dress
Timeless. Effortless. Elegant. Fun. Zip into a Lilly shift and feel that
way every time! Our Liz shift dress with pockets is 19” long and
done with an allover print and cute lace trim! Slip your phone, lip
gloss, someone else’s phone number...anything in here. ($198) At
The Palm on Park, 444 4th Street, Boca Grande. (866) 964-4448
Lilly girls are born to stand out and shine in the
spotlight. Enter any room in our Forsyth maxi shift
dress and just wait for the gasps and compliments to
roll in. This striking blue and green maxi dress is done
in a vintage dobby print and has an eye-catching
keyhole neckline. ($298) At The Palm on Park, 444
4th Street, Boca Grande. (866) 964-4448
Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation Survival Bracelet
This bracelet features the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation logo.
This Guy Harvey bracelet consists of up to 15 feet of actual
military spec paracord. It is an incredible material that is used in
thousands of other ways by the military and outdoor enthusiasts
everywhere. If you use it in an emergency, send Survival Straps®
your story, hardware, and a photo and they will replace it for
free! ($39) at www.guyharvey.com
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BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
53
Island Must-Haves
14kt Gold Heart Locket
Show your valentine how much she’s loved
with a one of a kind 14kt gold heart locket.
Many different lockets to choose from
starting at $75. At The Antique Boutique
located in the Historic Train Depot building.
TOP: Long Sleeve Vintage Drape Tee
The Vintage Drape T (tea rose & white) is
now ready for every season. With a flattering
uneven hem and small pocket, you’ll want
to live in this comfy, cotton slub top. ($59)
BOTTOM: Boca Pencil Skirt black
Gone to Boca! Flaunt the Boca Pencil Skirt
in a comfortable fabrication to stay cute &
fabulous. ($49) Available at Fresh Produce,
411 Park Ave. Boca Grande. (941) 964-0800,
www.freshproduceclothes.com
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BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
55
Island Must-Haves
Light up your room
Transform Your Bathroom
Add
a dash
of coastal
flair
Simple
solution
to transform
with
this
grouping
that
your bathroom from is bare
perfectly
designed
to bemirror
a
to beautiful,
and your
focal
point
in
your
home.
never leaves the wall. Over
Luminara
Candles ($45-$56),
65 styles available
at Creative
Printed
Pillows
by Sugarboo
Window Treatments,
4880
Designs
Banded
Placida ($132),
Road, Linen
Englewood.
Pillows
at Props forwww.
(941) ($29)
828-0000. the
Home
2961
Placida Rd,
mycreativewindow.com
Englewood. (941) 697-3881
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Transform Your Bathroom
Simple solution to transform your bathroom from bare to
beautiful, and your mirror never leaves the wall. Over 65 styles
available at Creative Window Treatments, 4880 Placida Road,
Englewood. (941) 828-0000. www.mycreativewindow.com
Ladies Diamond Sideways Cross Ring
Available 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
Make a Difference
Help save our seas and look great in this Guy Harvey
Ocean Foundation T-shirt. A portion of the proceeds
benefits the marine conservation work of the Guy
Harvey Ocean Foundation. ($20) Available in pink
or blue at www.guyharvey.com.
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
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Snapshots of Boca
Grande’s Historic Past
SQUID, Boca Gran
de Florida
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
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59
Once Upon an Island
Above: Boca Grande Club : Boca
Grande, Florida.
Note: A modern, red brick,
fireproof building. A resort hotel
with all outside rooms, where
one may enjoy all that Florida has
to offer in the way of sports: golf,
tennis, fishing, and sunbathing.
Photograph of a postcard.
Left: Man torn between two
women - Boca Grande, Florida.
Photographed on May 7, 1926.
Photos provided by State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory & Boca Grande Historical Society & Museum
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Pier and boats at the Boca Grande marina - Boca Grande, Florida
Photographed during June 1956.
Boats and Guide Quarters
1910’s
Phosphate loading docks at Boca
Grande in Lee County, Florida.
Photographed in June 1955.
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On the Wild Side
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Osprey
Written by Skylar Bartolotta
Photo by Jean Schuster
Ospreys are large birds shaped similarly to
hawks. You can spot them all over the world
circling steadily in the sky over shallow rivers,
ponds, estuaries and even coral reefs. Ninety
nine percent of their diet is fish; they are superb
hunters. Osprey have gripping pads on their feet
that allow them to pluck fish from the water,
and their curved claws carry their prey for long
distances. Ospreys have been known to dive
headfirst into the water to ease wind resistance
while pursuing their underwater prey. When
ospreys aren’t hunting the shores, they rest in
their stick-and-sod nests built on telephone
poles and channel markers; unlike other birds,
human habitats are sometimes helpful to the
ospreys’ living arrangements. Ospreys have
slender bodies with long legs and wings. They
fly with a kink in their wings, which makes an
M-shape. They are brown on the top half of
their bodies and their wings are mostly white
with dark patches of feathers. Their heads are
white with a distinctive brown stripe through
their eyes. They are often confused with the
bald eagle, but ospreys can be distinguished by
their white undersides. Eagles and ospreys live
in similar habitats and frequently battle for food.
Eagles have been often seen forcing ospreys to
drop fish they have caught, to steal them in flight.
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
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Business Directory
Advertising
ROI Media
(941) 257-4352
14870 Tamiami Trail
North Port, FL 34287
www.roimedia.us
Animal Services
Mote Marine Laboratory
480 E. Railroad Ave, Unit 7
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.mote.org/boca
Suncoast Humane Society
(941) 474-7884
6781 San Casa Dr.
Englewood, FL 34224
Apparel & Gifts
Antique Boutique
Located in the Train Depot
www.antiqueboutique.us
Ariel Ltd.
(941) 964-0480
444 4th Street
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.arielltd.com
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BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE
Capt. Chris
Combrink & Associates
(352) 226-6688
400 Park Ave
Boca Grande, FL 33921
D.C. Home Staging & Decor
(480) 773-4321
Fresh Produce
(941) 964-0800
411 Park Ave
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.freshproduceclothes.com
Fugate’s
(941) 964-2323
428 4th St W
Boca Grande, FL 33921
Props for the Home
(941) 697-3881
2961 Placida Rd.
Englewood, FL 34224
The Palm on Park
(866) 964-4448
444 4th Street
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.thepalmonpark.com
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2
Beds
Bed Masters
(941) 766-9122
4105 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
www.bedmasters.com
Blinds & Shutters
Clark Shutter Service
(941) 237-6778
www.clarkshutterservice.com
Creative Window Treatments
Cavana Classic Charters
(941) 875-4946
PO Box 357
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.cavanacharters.com
Pier One Yacht Sales
(941) 697-7777
8501 Placida Rd
Cape Haze, FL 33946
www.pieroneyachtsales.com
West Wall Shallow
Water Outfitters
(941) 828-0000
4880 Placida Road
Englewood, FL 34224
www.mycreativewindow.com
(941) 875-6930
787 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33953
www.westwallboats.com
Boating
Construction
Beach Road Watersports
(941) 475-9099
1350 Beach Road
Englewood, FL 34223
www.beachroadwatersports.net
MVM Custom Homes
(941) 815-6459
www.mvmch.com Pools
Peter Benjamin Surfaces
(941) 677-8833
www.peterbenjaminsurfaces.com
Nautilus Pools, Inc.
Hearing
Advanced Hearing Solutions
(941) 474-8393
655 S. Indiana Ave.
Englewood, FL 34223
www.advancedhearingsolutions.net
Insurance
Jeweler
Michael Saunders & Company
(941) 964-1776
410 Park Ave, Suite #1
Boca Grande, FL 33921
Classic Creations
in Diamonds & Gold
(941) 497-6331
2389 Tamiami Trail. S
Venice, FL 34293
www.classiccreationsjewelers.com
Lawn Care
Coastal Quality Services, Inc.
Davis & Beyer Dental
Health Professionals
(941) 488-1075
1218 E. Venice Ave
Venice, FL 34285
www.venicedentist.com
Financial Planning
MetLife
(941) 961-6106
1819 Main Street, Suite 1300
Sarasota, FL 34236
Flooring
Friendly Floors
(941) 624-0077
3785 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
www.friendlyfloors.com
Gas
Museums
Accurate Gas & Plumbing
Boca Grande Lighthouse
Museum
(941) 429-0501
1350 Bobcat Trail
North Port, FL 34288
www.bobcattrailgc.com
Caddy Carts
(941) 474-4747
12691 Tamiami Trail
Port Charlotte, Fl 34287
www.caddy-carts.com
Hair Salon & Spa
Kyle Kurtis Salon & Spa
(941) 830-8344
13435 S. McCall Rd
Port Charlotte, FL 33981
www.kyle-kurtis.com
Restaurants & Hotels
(941) 964-0440
433 W. Fourth Street
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.loosecaboose.biz
Zydeco Grille
(941) 485-3351 (24hr)
842 Sunset Lake Blvd.
Suite 403
Venice, FL 34292
Bobcat Trail Golf Club
Parsley Baldwin Realty
Loose Caboose
RTR Urology
Golf & Golf Carts
Marybeth Tvaroch
Office: (941) 964-2000
Direct: (941) 814-4202
420 E Railroad Ave
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.bocagrandeisliving.com
Liquors
Medical
Dental
Michael Saunders & Company
(941) 964-2700
www.parsley-baldwinrealty.com
(941) 698-1011
8725 Placida Road
Placida, FL 33946
www.truexpreferredconstruction.com
Kevin Hyde
Office: (941) 964-2000
Direct: (941) 628-4730
420 E Railroad Ave
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.bocagrandelistings.com
(239) 344-9326
(941) 815-2077
www.coastalquality.com
BnT Liquors and Fine Wines
(941) 893-8423
www.accurategnp.com
Gulf Coast International
Properties
(941) 380-8891
411 Park Ave
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.gcipbocagrande.com
Barbara Anne’s Jewelry & Repair
(941) 475-6680
579 S. Indiana Avenue, Suite A
Englewood, FL 34223
Real Estate
(941) 964-1500
www.keyagency.net
Key Agency
Truex Preferred Construction
(941) 624-5744
18380 Paulson Dr.
Port Charlotte, FL 33954
(941) 964-0060
Barrier Island Parks Society
880 Belcher Road
Boca Grande, FL 33921
www.barrierislandparkssociety.org
(941) 828-1472
8501 Placida Road
Cape Haze, FL
www.zydecogrille.com
Roofing
Mark Kaufman Roofing
(941) 473-3605
www.markkaufmanroofing.com
Security
Security Alarm Corporation
Pharmacy
(941) 625-9700
17776 Toledo Blade Blvd.
Port Charlotte, FL 33948
www.securityalarmcorp.com
RX Care Pharmacy
Surveying
(941) 426-1123
Shremshock Surveying, Inc.
Photography
Photographic Images
(941) 475-5148
7233 Summer Street
Englewood, FL 34224
www.heidemariephoto.com
Pools
A&M Professional Pool
Renovations, LLC.
(941) 623-8459
www.wefixuglypoolsfla.com
(941) 423-8875
www.shremshocksurveying.com
Tobacco
Tobacco Locker
(941) 255-8825
17506 Brighton Ave - Unit E
Port Charlotte, FL 33954
www.tobaccolocker.com
Travel Agency
Boca Grande Travel
(941) 964-0200
5800 Gasparilla Road
VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 2 Boca
BOCA
GRANDE
Grande,
FL MAGAZINE
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www.bocagrandetravel.com
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It’s five o’clock somewhere...
Watermelon
Sangria
Brought to you by B&T Liquors
1 bottle dry white wine
6 ounces vodka
4 ounces triple sec
4 ounces citrus syrup
2 pounds seedless watermelon, peeled and cubed
1/2 pound watermelon cut into balls with
a melon baller and skewered on picks
Ice
Puree watermelon cubes in a blender and
strain into a pitcher. Add white wine, vodka, citrus syrup, triple sec and stir. Refrigerate for two
hours. Stir and serve in glasses with ice, garnish
with watermelon balls.
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