By Olivia Cameron and Marcy Shortuse
Photos by Dusty Hopkins and submitted
Boca Grande had one of the strangest seasons ever experienced this year, as March
2020 came in like a lion and left like a dragon. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic
our stores and restaurants were shut down in the peak of season, and some of the
year’s most noteworthy events were canceled. It was a trying time for all, even though documented
cases on the island remained at less than a handful.
Safety measures grabbed us all by the hand and dragged us to the last place we want to
be in the beautiful spring sunshine – indoors. And with heels digging and fi sts clenched, we
sat down and took a breather. Virus and all, the people of Boca Grande found a way to keep
calm and carry on in a way that only we know how to do ... with aplomb, with grace, and with
charity and compassion.
v A big boost from the Boca Grande Woman’s Club
During a time when so many on the island were without their jobs, the Boca
Grande Woman’s Club rallied just as they did during Hurricane Charley and
created the Boca Grande Emergency Relief Fund. By the middle of May they had
distributed more than $600,000 to island businesses and to the servers, cashiers,
fi shing captains, store clerks and other service workers who live and work here.
For some, it meant the difference between having an empty pantry and having
food on the table. For many, it also meant keeping a roof over their heads.
This organization, by far, has gone above and beyond during a very diffi cult
time to keep Boca Grande businesses open. Many thanks to the members of
the Club, and to the people who contributed to the Boca Grande Woman’s Club
Emergency Relief Fund ... we thank you for your compassion.