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July 26, 2024
Electronics at outdoors-geared boarding school Gator Wilderness Camp School in Punta Gorda is a residential Christian program for boys ages 11-15 with behavioral issues. Typically, the staff at t…

July 26, 2024
BY VAN HUBBARD I understand that with our increased numbers fishing will not be as easy ever again. Millions of new participants, fewer fish and numerous regulations, plus habitat devastation all…

July 18, 2024
BY JAMES BLAHA, BOCA GRANDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY On February 10, 1930, the following article appeared in the Fort Myers News-Press: “Plans for a three-story resort hotel at Boca Grande to cost appr…

July 18, 2024
The issue of parking and beach access in Boca Grande is not unique to Gasparilla Island, or even Southwest Florida. University of Virginia historian Prof. Andrew Kahrl studies the social and environ…

July 18, 2024
Cane toads have been spotted around the island recently. Be sure to differentiate these invasive species from native Florida toads.  George Cera, who was the primary iguana hunter in Boca Grande…

July 18, 2024
When marine emergencies require a multi-agency approach, Lee County’s Marine Emergency Response Team, or MERT, provides vital communication among agencies.  On June 22, there were multiple marine…

July 12, 2024
While there is no official plan for parking for Boca Grande from Lee County, county officials are already circulating a draft list of ideas for this island and parking. The Beacon is sorting through…

July 11, 2024
A dozen local retailers and officials came to a meeting to discuss possible parking restrictions in Boca Grande on Monday, July 8 at the Boca Grande Community Center.  There was some confusion as…

July 11, 2024
Mosquito season started with a bang after several downpours moved through Southwest Florida last month.   The rain spanned county-wide, which expanded habitats wider across Lee County, rather tha…

July 11, 2024
Recently, there were Army Corps of Engineers technicians on island surveying the beach for renourishment. The crew was for the Jacksonville District – Lee County Gasparilla Shore Protection Project…