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As the Bike Path becomes more bare, more questions come with it

Besides new plants, the project includes what is called “structural pruning” of already established trees. This kind of pruning focuses on improving the architecture of the branches within the crown of the tree. Most trees grow stronger without branches at different levels. These lower branches tend to cause problems, using nutrients and presenting problems for the overall health of the tree. Structural pruning not only protects the tree, but also protects people and property from weaker limbs falling or otherwise being a nuisance. Bartlett Tree has headed this part of the project.

Set a time to seek  the spirits with BIPS

The past will live again this Halloween as the Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS) scares up stories from Boca Grande’s history for its premier Haunted History Tour. The tour will be offered twice, both on Sunday, Oct. 30, one at 5 p.m. and the other at 6:30 p.m. Each will run about one hour and […]

OBITUARY: Steve Gribble

John Steven “Steve” Gribble made his transition, as family communicated their love for him, on July 23, 2022. Though his body experienced medical issues over the last several years, Steve’s mind remained creative and clever. His heart, genuine and generous, and always a story on the tip of his tongue.   Steve was born October […]

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Sandi Firtion

Sandi is one of many volunteers who dedicate their time to helping out at the Lighthouse and at other Barrier Island Parks Service facilities. At the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse these volunteers help visitors learn all about the workings of the Lighthouse, the history connected with it, the creatures who live in the area, and the workings and mission of BIPS.

Going … up? 

The board had begun discussing the need for an elevator some 10 years ago, she said, but actually voted to initiate this aspect of the project three years ago. Among the first things necessary was to find an architectural firm to design and plan out the work required to add an elevator to the facility. The choice was not difficult, based on the success of the library renovations made in 2012 and 2013.

A loss felt around the world:

In May of 1991, a week after The Queen had flown home, her ship, Brittania, docked just off the Boca Grande coast and its officers spent a few hours on Useppa Island, mingling with residents and Useppa owner Garfield Beckstead (they came at the invitation of an island resident who had ties with the Royal Navy). Beckstead even made Admiral Robert Woodard of the Royal Navy an honorary member of Useppa Island, with a permanent invitation to return whenever he liked.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Lauren Ringeisen

While she and her family only moved to the Boca Grande area about a year ago, Lauren has many years of history on and near the Island. Her parents retired to Rotonda many years ago, and Lauren and her own family have vacationed here for years.

OBITUARY: Fayma Childs

Fayma A. Childs, 83, of Burnsville, N.C. passed away on August 27, 2022. A private family service will be held at Lighthouse United Methodist Church on Boca Grande.  Fayma was born in Rural Hall, N.C. on November 19, 1938. Her family relocated to South Florida, where she raised her family and received her Bachelor of […]