BY LIZA STROUT - If you have spent any time on the north end of the island recently, you have probably noticed some very full drainage ditches and, occasionally, a lingering scent.

The water from Tropical Storm Debby and before that fills the ditches that line the road has turned stagnant ... and slimey ... and stinky.

BY MARCY SHORTUSE - When Capt. Jimmy Robertson was wheeled into surgery at Peace River Regional Hospital on July 12, he thought he would wake up without a leg. When he did come to, he found out that wasn’t to be the case ... at least so far.

Jimmy was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis earlier this month, after sustaining a simple injury which led to infection in his left foot and leg.

Several meetings of local government organizations will take place next week, which is a bit of an oddity this time of year.

On Monday, July 23 the Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority are going to have three meetings in one day.

The Boca Grande Fire Department is hard at work preparing for their first Hammerhead Adventure Run on Saturday, July 28.

The 3.5 mile run will travel along the beach and through downtown, with obstacles, ice, mud and water along the way.

The race will begin at 8 a.m., with a new wave every 10 minutes.

There will be prizes for division and overall winners. Everyone who participates will receive a race t-shirt and a goody bag.

So far, more than 65 people have signed up. Anyone can form a team, or you can register as an individual. Registration is at active.com. Search for “Hammerhead Adventure Run,” and it will take you to the page. The entry fee for the run is $65.

The run is being held as a fundraiser for the Boca Grande Firefighters Association, which was created to support firefighters and their families in times of need and hardship.

After the race, there will be a party at the Boca Grande Community Cente with food, games and a bounce house for the kids.