History of the Gasparilla Gazette

The Gasparilla Gazette is the oldest weekly newspaper on the island. Published every Thursday, it's mailed to every address on the island, as well as being distributed in neighboring Englewood, Cape Haze and Placida. Its current distribution reaches about 4,000 households, well above the number of actual residents on the tiny barrier island.

It is particularly noted for its photo coverage of island life. This could mean a social event during "season" — the period from roughly November to April when the island teems with part-year residents. Or it might mean activities at the school or even the wildlife that shares the island with human residents.

The Gazette's news coverage stresses community news as well as coverage of the environment and the natural history of the Gulf barrier islands. Each week, readers get information about everything from tarpon fishing to news about the endangered sea turtle pupulation as well as the Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority and Boca Grande Community Planning Panel which have been working with both Lee and Charlotte county officials to develop a plan for the island's future.

As part of its commitment to the community, the Gazette has also sponsored events for the tarpon fishing tournaments and for the Gasparilla Island Conservation and Improvement Association (GICA).