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We all practice husbandry and agriculture. Of a sort.

There was a time not too long ago when many local state agricultural offices, particularly in suburban areas, were interested devoted to “truck and ornamentals.” That phrase might sound foreign to many, but the meaning made more sense in an earlier age, when local nurseries and homeowners participated in agriculture and ate food from “truck […]

Boca Bay hosts Fire Department, Fish & Wildlife for water safety training this week

Labor Day weekend is upon us, and the Boca Grande Fire Department is preparing for any water-related emergencies that may accompany the festivities.  Monday, Aug. 26 through Wednesday Aug. 28, members of the fire department used the Boca Bay Beach House pool to practice water rescues in shifts, instructed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife […]

Sidewalk extension discussed between Kappy’s, Gulf Shores

Charlotte County officials are working to help with pedestrian safety at the north end of the island on Gasparilla Road. The discussion began with the possibility of creating a cross-walk across Gasparilla Road, at the intersection of Gulf Shores Drive. The Board of County Commissioners addressed the issue at their July 17 meeting, and noted […]

Island merchants hold summer sales in last days of August

While some restaurants and businesses are closed this time of year, many are still open and are rolling out sales during this Labor Day weekend and beyond.  “There’s a lot to offer at great prices this time of year,” said Ruth Amen of The Palm on Park. “It will definitely be worth the visit.”  The […]

State Park ideas withdrawn; input still needed on future plan

A state-wide Great Outdoors Initiative by Florida Department of Environmental Protection, which aims to add amenities like golf and pickleball to several Florida State Parks, does not affect our nearby state parks.  At a press conference Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis pulled back from the proposals, which he called “half-baked and not ready for primetime,” and […]

Charles Blanchard, 1943-2024

Charles E. “Chuck” or “Charlie” Blanchard, age 80, passed away on August 17, 2024 at his home in Gardnerville, Nevada. He was surrounded by loved ones. After a long illness, he made the choice to go into Hospice care, and had time to reminisce, enjoying notes and calls from friends and loved ones. Charlie was […]

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Michigan to Boca Grande Preschool, Jackie Eby

Being known as a jack of all trades is a good thing. It means you are versatile, resourceful, multi-talented and able to move smoothly from one helpful thing to another. The Boca Grande Preschool has just such a “Jack”: Jackie Eby. Jackie has been working (playing, hugging, laughing, loving, encouraging and so forth) at the […]

Rip currents are by far the biggest beach hazard

BY DR. JOHN FLETEMEYER You would think that the TV weather reporter, being the professional that they report to be, would know the difference between a rip current and rip tide, but often they don’t. As an ex-lifeguard, coastal scientist and author of a book about rip currents, I’m disappointed when I hear a weather […]