Written by Staff Report on . Posted in News.
The Charlotte County Tourist Development Council is accepting applications for the 2026 Event Development Program. The application is available online at pureflorida.com. Applicants must give a brief presentation to the TDC as part of the application process. The EDP provides reimbursable funding to support the creation of new events taking place during low or shoulder […]
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Featured News, News.
At The Gasparilla Inn & Club, the Christmas tree decorations were going up on Tuesday evening, both inside and outside. At the lawn, crews were decorating the tree just like at home, with one person placing the ornaments, and another helping out with the storage boxes. […]
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Community, Featured News, News.
There are a few December dates left to pick up parking permits in person at the Crowninshield Community House. To ensure continued access for residents, employees, volunteers and visitors, Lee County has added multiple January dates. Applications for Zone “A” Resident decals, Zone “C” Island Employee and Volunteer decals, and Zone “D” House Guest placards can […]
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Featured News, News, Police & Fire.
A man was arrested for disorderly intoxication in a public place at the Pink Elephant last Saturday evening, Dec. 6. Around 5:30 p.m., Deputy Nicholas Garber of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Pink Elephant at 491 Bayou Ave. in reference to a disturbance, according to a Lee County Sheriff’s Office official police […]
Written by Garland Pollard on . Posted in Breaking News, Community, News.
Grace Haly, the daughter of Dr. Emily Haly and Adam Haly, is recovering after a paragliding accident in Switzerland in October. “We are struggling with this new normal,” said Dr. Emily Haly, who is back in Florida as she helps her daughter recover on the East Coast. Grace went to Switzerland for her sophomore year […]
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Obituaries.
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas C. McDermott, who left us on December 7, 2025 at the age of 89. Surrounded by his loving family, he passed away peacefully at his home in Pittsford, NY. He is predeceased by his first wife, Gloria McDermott, and his sister, Dorothea Warren. […]
Written by Angela McPhillips on . Posted in Profiles.
A fresh perspective at the Pass Club When Boca Bay Pass Club sought a new executive chef, they wanted someone who could refine the dining experience by elevating familiar member favorites with sharper technique, richer flavor and a broader global perspective. They found that balance in Chef Steve Polowy, who brings more than 30 years […]
Written by Boca Beacon Reader on . Posted in Community, Letters to the Editor.
To the Editor: Leaf blowers driving you inside? Glad you’re not home when your neighbors’ crews are scheduled? Have you had to restrict your activities due to the toxic cloud put at head height by their use? Exposure to fine particulate matter is linked to developing Alzheimer’s and worsens existing disease. The American Lung Association […]
Written by VAN HUBBARD on . Posted in Columns, Sports & Outdoors.
We tend to reflect more at this time of the year, especially as we get no younger. I’m so thankful to still be living here. We were blessed to be spared hurricanes this year. I’m thankful. We even got by without a red tide. Many of us are still recovering from last year’s storms, but […]
Written by Anna Ridilla on . Posted in Community History.
FIVE YEARS AGO GIWA’s Water Reclamation Facility had completed the final pour of concrete for two new concrete tanks and an elevated platform. TEN YEARS AGO Bayne Stevenson hosted the annual sandcastle party for The Island School children at his island home. The Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority was teasing the island with an announcement of […]