LETTER TO THE EDITOR: The 22nd History Bytes season is now in the books
To the Editor:
This February’s History Byte season, dedicated to our esteemed administrator, Kim Kyle, seemed to end to quickly. We are so happy to be celebrating Kim’s 20th year at Boca Grande History Center.
A special thank you to all our wonderful speakers for sharing. Thank you to each and everyone who joined us for the programs – it’s fun to see so many of you back every year!
We began with a very interesting and intriguing discussion of local cemeteries and pioneer families, presented by BGHS Executive Director Crystal Diff and Scott Shively, local historian and BGHS Officer. We all want to hear more!
Julie Jean Robinson shared stories about her rich childhood living on a commercial grouper boat with her parents, growing up also in Boca Grande during the Miller’s tarpon tournament years. Julie is so proud now to be raising her family in Boca Grande and them having such a great life here, attending The Island School and local community programs.
Kathy Y. Futch charmed us with her eloquently shared stories of meeting her late husband, Capt. Mark Futch and their many adventures spanning 40+ years. She also spoke of raising her family on the island and the love letters of Nellie and Dan Futch. Kathy had a very interesting life working as the personal secretary for many prominent characters on the island, as well as helping to start the Royal Palm Players and the Boca Grande Art Alliance.
Our last “Byte” of the season was the second edition of Joe Spadaro and The Boca Grande Hotel. Jim Blaha, director of BGHS Center, Trisha Lowe and Peg Kapustiak shared the final days of the hotel and information on Joe’s life in Venice afterward. Jim had us spellbound and, in his words, “come to History Center and I’ll share more.” There is plenty more to the story!
We are so thankful to share the beautiful loggia at the Johann Fust Library for this series with the Johann Fust Library Foundation. Bobbie and Julianne are there to assure that all runs smoothly. Thank you to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for directing traffic each week.
Our sponsor, Bank of America, Private Bank’s Managing Director Kimberly Bleach is a great asset to each program. Kimberly brings with her an enthusiasm and love for our community that’s contagious. Thank you, Bank Of America, this sponsorship allows us to video each event and sit under a beautiful tent in the gardens!
The Boca Beacon staff, Marcy and Sheila, thank you for reviewing our programs and your constant support of all our events, too!
This wraps up our 22nd year of History Bytes. Many thanks to our board, volunteers and history lovers. I’m sure you have a story to tell! We’d love to have you share!
Betsy Fugate Joiner
History Byte Chair
Boca Grande Historical Center
170 Park Ave.
(941) 964-1600
