The war in Ukraine is being fought some 6,000 miles from Boca Grande, but it is also being fought in our own backyard … and affecting people we know and care about. This week we have a story featuring such a connection, and it shows us that the world is smaller than we sometimes think … and that there are many ways we can serve the interest of world peace by reaching out and helping our neighbors.
Andy Roman, who spent his childhood in Boca Grande and still has connections here, is leaving May 2 for his second trip to Ukraine since the war with Russia started a little over a month ago. He has relatives in Ukraine and originally wanted to help them relocate to a safer place. When the family members decided to stay and fight, Andy decided to do the same.

The county’s monthly report also included an interesting tidbit about the almost-defunct Port Charlotte Town Center Mall. It said that $44.8 million was owed by the bondholders (PC Mall LLC,) of the bankrupt mall, and the facility was sold for $100,000 in an online auction in February to those bondholders. 

BY WESLEY LOCKE Join us for Friends of the Everglades and Vote Water’s “Clean Water Conversation” Event at the Boca Bay Powerhouse this Tuesday, March 22 at 5 p.m. We will be holding a panel discussion with executive directors from both organizations – Eve Samples and Gil Smart – as well as local Charlotte Harbor […]

Young Life is a nonprofit organization that steps into the lives of teenagers with the mission of developing mentoring relationships and introducing them to who Jesus is. Regardless of their response, Young Life staff and volunteers continue to walk through life with them.
Why? Teenagers need hope and more adults that care. They are experiencing life much differently than 10, 30 or 50 years ago. Parents feel distant, stress levels are high, anxiety and depression are on the rise and social media adds even more pressure.
So how do we do it? First, by praying and stepping into their world. As a Young Life staffer, it’s been a joy to step into the public schools, Lemon Bay High, L.A. Ainger Middle, Sky Academy, and meet students. Thanks to the support of our local schools, Young Life is able to visit regularly, and be a listening ear to students. We also get to cheer them on at their soccer games, theater plays and more.