Written by Guest Columnist on . Posted in Columns, Community History.
BY KAREN GRACE The late Capt. Fred Futch once said that although many people say the biggest change to the island came from the building of the bridge, he thought it was the formation of the water company that was the greatest impetus for the development that followed. Before 1968 and the Gasparilla Island Water […]
Written by Guest Columnist on . Posted in Columns, News, Sports & Outdoors.
BY THE BARRIER ISLAND PARKS SOCIETY Marine pollution is an increasing threat to the overall health of Florida. It makes a negative impact in many ways, and it comes from many sources. Many types of marine pollution are caused by human activity. Identifying threats and being proactive can help protect and preserve Florida’s ecosystems for […]
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Featured News, News, Sports & Outdoors.
On September 5, the Boca Grande Fishing Guides Association held their Annual Meeting, and discussed the future of the organization. “Systems need to be put in place for the future to ensure that our fishing industry and heritage are preserved, and that’s just what we’re going to do,” said Capt. Christopher Taylor, the newly elected […]
Written by Anna Ridilla on . Posted in Featured News, News, Police & Fire.
Cancer is a leading cause of death among firefighters. The Boca Grande Fire Department is attempting to reduce this risk by raising money for new turnout gear that is free from “forever chemicals” linked to cancer. Most current firefighting gear contains measurable amounts of Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, or PFAS. The Boca Grande Fire Department has now […]
Written by Sheila Evans on . Posted in Featured News, News.
Two of the most discussed amendments to the Florida Constitution this November include a ballot initiative on marijuana, Amendment 3, and a ballot initiative on abortion, Amendment 4. This is the second article in a three-part backgrounder on the state constitutional amendments on the ballot in November’s general election. Both potential amendments were initiated outside […]
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Breaking News, News.
At press time, the island was waiting for the outer bands of Hurricane Helene. Pictured here, the radar from MyRadar phone app, hanging just west of Cuba.
Written by Staff Report on . Posted in Featured News, News, Sports & Outdoors.
Before Hurricane Helene, some beachgoers have had questions about the color of the water, which, even on the Gulf of Mexico side of the island, was the light brownish color of a cypress swamp. “Water-wise, we are still experiencing a tremendous amount of rain inland that is causing storm water runoff and hence the tannins […]
Written by Garland Pollard on . Posted in Breaking News, Community, News.
This Sunday, Pastor Gary Beatty will preach his last message at First Baptist Church in Boca Grande. Beatty announced his retirement last Sunday. “God’s been good to me,” said Beatty. “The island’s been good to me. People have been good to me.” He came to the church in 2000. His wife Betty knew from the […]
Written by Boca Beacon on . Posted in Obituaries.
Mary Ann’s family invites you to join in a celebration of her life. Mary Ann lived a remarkable life surrounding herself with family, friends, and a passion for sharing joy and love. Her legacy will continue to inspire on October 4, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Lighthouse United Methodist Church, 325 3rd St. W, Boca […]
Written by Boca Beacon on . Posted in Obituaries.
My heart is ready, O God, my heart is ready: I will sing and rehearse a psalm. Arise, O my glory, arise psaltery and harp: I will arise early. I will give praise to thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing a psalm to thee among the nations.” – Psalm 56(57):8-10 Surrounded by […]