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Lee County School District makes historic decision, says ‘no’ to FCATS: But how does it affect The Island School?

Written by Marcy Shortuse on . Posted in Education, News.

Heads are spinning within the Lee County School District, as the school board voted 3-2 to opt the district out of standardized testing. The decision was made on Wednesday, Aug. 27, and it made history.
Lee County is now the first county in Florida to opt out of the tests. What that means to supporters of the school board’s decision is that students will no longer be in dread of being held back because they failed the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, and that they will be graded on their schoolwork … not on their FCAT scores.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Ellen Thompson 

Written by Sheila Evans on . Posted in Education, Profiles.

A foundation for Michigan college education Being labeled a visionary is pretty high praise. That’s the word the Detroit News has chosen to describe Ellen Thompson, long-time winter resident of Boca Grande, as well as summer resident of the Mitten State. Her recognition as a visionary came with the naming of Ellen as one of […]

Fishing license free in June weekends

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Entertainment, News, Sports & Outdoors.

This summer’s license-free fishing weekends are on June 7-8 for saltwater and June 14-15 for freshwater. Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the many recreational fishing opportunities Florida has to offer. Whether you like to fish from the shore or your boat, there are several options across the state. People of all ages and […]

REMINISCENCES: K.Y. FUTCH 

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Community History, Opinion.

Seaplanes to the oyster beds: My time with Katharine Hepburn BY KATHY FUTCH Miss Hepburn made fairly regular visits to Boca Grande to be with her Houghton family relatives and also some friends. Upon entering Palermo’s “Griswold” home where she was staying, she immediately approached me and removed the straw hat I was wearing and […]

OPINION: EMERSON WICKWIRE

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Opinion.

BY EMERSON WICKWIRE Today, while reading yet another installment in the Beacon’s never-ending stream of church-related letters about their Gilchrist parking access, I paused to wonder: Why, in our fabulously warm and wonderfully welcoming little barrier island community, has this issue been so loudly ongoing for so many years? And why has it recently become […]

Commissioners reflect on visit

Written by Garland Pollard on . Posted in Breaking News, News.

Two commissioners from Lee County were in Boca Grande last week, not only to attend the groundbreaking of The Island School and Boca Grande Community Center renovation, but to learn about the island and to research the parking issue. “I had a four-hour tour that included the Community Center groundbreaking,” said David Mulicka, who is […]

Joseph Junkin 1939-2025

Written by Boca Beacon on . Posted in Obituaries.

Joseph (Joe) Swan Junkin, died peacefully from pulmonary fibrosis on March 29, 2025, with his loving family by his side. Born on June 17, 1939, Joe lived a rich and fulfilling life that touched many around him. He was a devoted family man, accomplished executive and passionate adventurer. Joe grew up in New York and […]

Edie’s 100th

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Events.

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church honored parishioner Edie Gardner on Sunday, for her 100th birthday and her support of the church. From left are Ron Drake, Edie, Dan Headington, daughter-in-law Liz Drayton and son Peter Thayer.       Photo by Garland 

George Robinson 1943-2025

Written by Boca Beacon on . Posted in Obituaries.

George Cooke Robinson passed away on April 1st, 2025, at age 81, due to complications from a fall. George was an avid traveler, chef, dog lover and investor who put his family above all else.  George is survived by his partner of almost 30 years, Donna Moore; son Michael Robinson (Virginia); grandsons Brooks and Luke; […]

Lynne Olson returns to discuss ‘Empress of the Nile’

Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Entertainment, Events, News.

Historian’s newest book details the rescue of Egypt’s temples Prepare to be captivated by the remarkable story of an unsung heroine. Boca Grande favorite, Lynne Olson, returns on Wednesday, April 9th, to discuss her new book, “Empress of the Nile: The Archaeologist Who Saved Egypt’s Ancient Temples from Destruction.” The lecture will take place at […]