FROM THE FWC NEWSROOM - As many of us prepare to hang a calendar for the new year and we flip the pages to glance in awe at photographs featuring nature’s beauty - from wild habitats to fish and wildlife or outdoor recreation - it is a good time to reflect on what it takes to make those glorious images.

Ask any passionate angler, hunter or outdoors person what he or she loves about nature and getting outdoors, and key points come up, including a love of connecting with nature, being able to relax and spending quality time outdoors with friends and families.

BY MARCY SHORTUSE - It’s been a peaceful 2011 around here, and in Boca Grande that’s usually a good thing. As the year dwindles down to its last few hours, it’s time to reflect on what has happened this year.
We realize that this line-up of events may not mean much to the infrequent visitor, but every little detail in a seemingly-innocuous monthly line-up can elicit memories for all of us who spend a good portion of our time here.
Join us in a trip back in time, through the year that was 2011.

Almost three-quarters of a ton of food was collected during the Boca Grande Christmas Food Drive. The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida was the recipient, and Joyce Jacobs, the associate director of the food bank (above, in red) stood with Jim Cochrun and Bob Elliot when she picked up the van on December 21. Representatives for the Boca Grande food drive said they surpassed last year’s food collection by 250 pounds, with a total of 1,480 pounds of food.  

It is believed to be the most successful Christmas food drive ever in the island’s history.

A barrel for food donations will be available at the administrative office of the Boca Grande United Methodist Church until the spring food drive begins in mid-February.