Island churches have announced services for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

It was a winter recital to remember at The Island School on Friday, Dec. 9. Music teacher Diana Donlon had the kids show their parents how they warmed up their voices, their minds and their bodies with a little yoga (top left). The little ones also did the “Round and Round” dance (top right).

Charlotte Chatham, one of the school’s youngest students, showed she had some of the biggest talent (top left). Theresa Caccavale’s kindergarten class sang “Up on the Housetop” (top right).

The kids in the fourth and fifth grade classes really got into “Jingle Bell Rock."

Photos by Marcy

Here in Boca Grande, we are experiencing what we refer to as the calm before the Christmas and New Year’s “storm.” Historically, the week between Christmas and New Year’s is a bustling time for the island.

The Inn is at full capacity, island shops are filled with great merchandise, restaurants are rocking, the bike path is filled with young athletic types, and everyone has some extended family members or friends visiting from out of town.  

All in all, it’s a great time of the year! But until it arrives, enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the island, shop and dine locally and get plenty of rest, you’re gonna need it!

The girls at Hudson’s Grocery said that an anonymous donor came into the store and contributed $500 to their Relay for Life team, as well as $500 to the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida.

Thank you, anonymous donor, for keeping the Christmas spirit alive!

They raised more than $1,000 for their Relay team at the Wheeler Road barbecue held recently.