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A few familiar faces on the island

A few faces in the crowds of people visiting the island this past week were more than a little familiar to some. Former presidents of the United States tend to rouse a double-take in some places, but not so much in Boca Grande.

Many members of the Bush family were staying at various locations around the island this week, a trip that has become something of a family tradition in years past.

Most business owners and residents said they were keeping an eye out for any sightings, but intended to keep it low-key.

Nancy Blank, co-owner of Fugate’s, said it’s a rare trip to Boca Grande that at least one member of the Bush family doesn’t stop by.

“We love having the Bush family in town, we wish they would all come in! We’ve had the twins in, as well as Laura, Barbara and we love them. Laura is pretty and very sweet. A very lovely lady. They bring a lot of excitement to the island and they’re great customers.”

Fugate’s employee Penelope Lach said she and her infant son were approached by Barbara Bush …  and she was absolutely thrilled.

“She said he was beautiful,” Penelope said. “It was so cool.”

Jennifer Burch, the owner of Ariel, Ltl. Ariel and Palm on Park, said on Tuesday she waited on Laura Bush and her daughters at one of her shops.

“She was delightful, it was exciting,” she said. “This is the first time that I remember Laura and the girls had been in. Barbara has been in before.”

Sandy Melvin, owner of Gasparilla Outfitters/ Special Effects for Women, said the twins were also in his store on Wednesday morning.

“We’re glad to see them having a good time and enjoying Boca Grande like everybody else,” he said.