News
BIPS announces new 2017-2020 strategic plan
November 24, 2017
PROVIDED BY THE BARRIER ISLAND PARKS SOCIETY – Nearly 30 years ago, a group of concerned island residents set out to rescue the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse at the south end of the island from decades…
Chamber Christmas Walk this weekend
November 24, 2017
All are invited to attend the annual Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Walk this Saturday, Nov. 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. The Boca Grande village will be ringing with Christmas cheer. Stroll d…
The big weekend for Boca Bargains has arrived!
November 24, 2017
BY MARCY SHORTUSE – Saturday, Nov. 25 marks the grand opening of Boca Bargains for the 2017-2018 season. According to long-time volunteer JoAnn Welch, the shop, located on Park Avenue at Banyan Stree…
First Sunday in December means the annual lighting of the town Christmas tree
November 24, 2017
Join family and friends at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 3 for the annual lighting of the Boca Grande Community Christmas tree. With clergy members from all island churches participating, the ceremony will…
Seibert MOD weekend held complete with great stories and memories
November 24, 2017
BY MARY BESS – At 90 years of age, island resident Tim Seibert was an engaging speaker at last weekend’s MOD Weekend in Sarasota, where he was the guest of honor. Full of fun and good stories, and ge…
Melvin, Waterhouse take GIFT Tournament with 19-inch trout
November 24, 2017
BY MARCY SHORTUSE – It was another winning year for Capt. Sandy Melvin and his angler, Patrick Waterhouse, on Tuesday, Nov. 21 as the 24th Annual Gasparilla Island Fly Fishing Tournament was held. Th…
Florida history lives again at The Island School
November 24, 2017
Students at The Island School relived local and Florida history once again on Wednesday, Nov. 15 when a Calusa shaman, Ponce de Leon, a pirate and an early member of the Padilla fishing family visite…
Local seaplane pilot fails retirement, which could work to your advantage
November 24, 2017
BY MARCY SHORTUSE – Fourth-generation islander Mark Futch tried desperately to succumb to retirement, but his plan has failed miserably. This may mean good things for island residents, though, who ha…
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Englewood Toys for Tots hoping to bring Christmas magic around
November 24, 2017
To the Editor: The holiday season is rapidly approaching, and many families continue to struggle to provide their children with Christmas gifts. The mission of the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots…
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Suncoast Humane to hold Pet Walk for homeless animals
November 24, 2017
To the Editor: Dust off those sneakers, and call on your friends and family to join Suncoast Humane Society at their 2017 Pet Walk benefitting homeless animals. In collaboration with Venice MainStree…