BOCA BEACON TIMELINE

FIVE YEARS AGO

While the island was still picking up debris from Hurricane Irma, Hal McCombs was introduced as the new president of the Royal Palm Players.

TEN YEARS AGO

A short video called “Rich History … Priceless Future: The Tarpon of Boca Grande Pass” was created by Brooks and Sean Paxton, highlighting our fishing history and showcasing local talent such as Capt. Willie Mills, George Cera, Lew Hastings and singer Colton James.

FIFTEEN YEARS AGO

The Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce sponsored Family Fest, with fireworks on the beach, music and a street party, a fishing tournament and a spaghetti dinner. Also, a very young-looking Manager Jack Damioli met guests at the annual Gasparilla Inn & Club Open House.

TWENTY YEARS AGO

Lee County Sheriff Rodney Shoap announced that zoning issues prompted him to scrap plans to build two additional houses for island deputies. The Royal Palm Players were rehearsing “Talley’s Folly” with Jim Grace and Rebecca Schellinger.

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AGO

The National Marine Fisheries Service responded to the Army Corps of Engineers’ request for input on a local developer’s application to place a 13-slip boat dock at Three Sisters Island. They said it could “adversely affect the living marine resources” in the area. 

THIRTY YEARS AGO

Several hundred sign-carrying mullet fishermen left Tallahassee flush with victory over Gov. Lawton Chiles’ decision to reject a proposed emergency ban on mullet fishing.

THIRTY-FIVE YEARS AGO

Plans for the Port Charlotte Town Center have been unveiled to the public. The center will be built on 134 acres and is scheduled to be open for business by the fall of 1989.