BY MARCY SHORTUSE - It’s been a peaceful 2011 around here, and in Boca Grande that’s usually a good thing. As the year dwindles down to its last few hours, it’s time to reflect on what has happened this year.
We realize that this line-up of events may not mean much to the infrequent visitor, but every little detail in a seemingly-innocuous monthly line-up can elicit memories for all of us who spend a good portion of our time here.
Join us in a trip back in time, through the year that was 2011.

Almost three-quarters of a ton of food was collected during the Boca Grande Christmas Food Drive. The Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida was the recipient, and Joyce Jacobs, the associate director of the food bank (above, in red) stood with Jim Cochrun and Bob Elliot when she picked up the van on December 21. Representatives for the Boca Grande food drive said they surpassed last year’s food collection by 250 pounds, with a total of 1,480 pounds of food.  

It is believed to be the most successful Christmas food drive ever in the island’s history.

A barrel for food donations will be available at the administrative office of the Boca Grande United Methodist Church until the spring food drive begins in mid-February.

BY LIZA STROUT - A  huge part of a child’s life is their education, and whether that education is a good or bad one can make a huge impact in the rest of their lives.

Emily Steffan, a teacher from New Orleans, is the daughter of Dr. Michael and Angela Steffan of Boca Grande. She is one of the four panel members that will discuss this country’s educational system in the next segment of the Friends of Boca Grande Community Center Film Forum series of movie viewings and panel discussions based upon the movies.

There was no game on Monday, Dec. 26 to allow everyone time to recover from inundations and celebrations of the holiday.  

Wednesday’s game was attended by 32 players who managed to escape from kitchens and company to enjoy an afternoon of bridge. Extra masterpoints were awarded during this club championship game.
Winners for Wednesday, Dec. 28: