Gulf World to release 6 sea turtles on Tuesday

6 Endangered Sea Turtles will be released back into the Gulf of Mexico Tuesday morning.

The turtles were among over 200 that were rescued this year for cold stun rehabilitation after severe cold snaps.

The turtles are cold blooded.

They cannot thermo regulate their body temperature and as a result, the cold temperatures place the animals in a hypothermic state and they become very weak.

Most of the turtles were released quickly, but eight sea turtles required further rehabilitation due to various secondary illnesses such as pneumonia and impaction.

The 6 turtles that will be released by the Gulf world marine Institute on Friday include 4 juvenile green sea turtles and one juvenile Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle.

The release will take place at 10 AM central time at Crooked Island Beach Access in Tyndall Air Force Base.

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NOAA Fisheries consider changes to management plan for King and Spanish Mackerel

NOAA Fisheries is considering a change to the management plan for King and Spanish mackerel in the Gulf of Mexico.

The proposed rule amendment would add a prohibition on the sale of king and Spanish mackerel caught under the bag limit unless those fish are either caught on a for-hire trip and the vessel has both a for-hire and commercial vessel permit, or the fish are caught as part of a state-permitted tournament and the proceeds from the sale are donated to charity. 

The proposed amendment would also remove the income qualification requirement for king and Spanish mackerel commercial permits from the management plan. 

NOAA Fisheries is looking for public comment on the proposed changes.

Comments can be made on-line through the federal e-rulemaking portal at regulations.gov.

Comments must be received by May the 2^nd.

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Florida joins lawsuit over environmental impact of BP oil spill

The state of Florida has joined a multi-state federal lawsuit currently pending in the Eastern District of Louisiana involving the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill occurred on April 20, 2010, and caused significant harm to Florida’s natural resources and prevented citizens and visitors from enjoying those resources.

The complaint seeks to hold BP, Anadarko, and Transocean accountable for injuries to the environment the state suffered as a result of the oil spill.

The suit against BP and others was filed Wednesday by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in Pensacola. 

The case is separate from the suit filed by the Attorney General’s Office last year.

The Attorney General’s suit deals with economic losses Florida suffered as a result of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 7, 2014 CONTACT: DEP Press Office, 850.245.2112, DEPNews@dep.state.fl.us DEP RECOGNIZES NATIONAL GROUNDWATER AWARENESS WEEK ~Groundwater Awareness Week promotes the importance of preserving Florida’s groundwater~ TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection joins the nation in recognizing March 9 through 15 as National Groundwater Awareness Week. The week not only highlights the importance of groundwater, which is the source of 97 percent of the world’s fresh, usable water, but allows everyone to examine the challenges and potential solutions that face this essential resource. Groundwater is water that is stored in the cracks and spaces within soils and rocks below the ground. It is one of Florida’s most vital natural resources – the source of drinking water for more than 90 percent of the state’s population. Floridians use about 4.6 billion gallons of ground water per day. It provides drinking water to urban and rural communities, supports irrigation and industry, sustains the flow of springs, streams and rivers and maintains riparian and wetland ecosystems. "Florida’s karst geology fosters strong interaction between surface water and groundwater, and regardless of which water it is, water sustains life," said Dr. Jon Arthur, Director of the Department's Florida Geological Survey. "Karstic aquifers are highly vulnerable to contamination, making the work of geoscientists and engineers important toward protection and conservation of these critical resources." Floridians are fortunate to have a large source of groundwater. Groundwater fills the cracks and pores in sand, soil, and the rocks that lie beneath the surface of the earth, much like water fills a sponge. These water-filled layers of earth are called aquifers, and they are Florida’s main source of drinking water. Florida’s high rainfall and unique geology makes our groundwater extremely vulnerable to contamination, which makes protection that much more important. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is tasked with protecting, conserving and restoring Florida’s valuable ground water resources. To accomplish this, the Department, in concert with the Water Management Districts, regulate consumptive water use and well construction, conduct well surveillance programs, test groundwater used for drinking water, conduct research on natural and human influences on groundwater and regulate wastewater systems and toxic chemicals. The threats to groundwater can come from many sources, both natural and human-made. Nature can change the quality of our groundwater through severe weather, droughts and contamination that enters through sinkholes. Human activity is the main contributor to groundwater contamination. The quality and quantity of groundwater are the challenges the Department faces and and everyone can help play a role in protection and restoration of this precious resource. There are two types of pollution sources: point source and non-point source. Point source pollution refers to pollution that originates from a definable source such as a leaking underground storage tank or a factory. Most non-point source pollution comes from fertilizers and pesticides spread on fields, lawns and parks. Stormwater, the water that runs off impervious surfaces such as streets and parking lots, contains many pollutants, and is a contributing factor to pollution. These include oils, greases, heavy metals and coliform bacteria. In addition to supplying drinking water to many of the millions of Florida residents and the state’s visitors, recreational opportunities are found in water that escapes from aquifers, known as springs. Governor Scott has included $55 million in springs protection and restoration funding in his 2014 “It’s Your Money Tax Cut Budget” that will allow Florida to continue this administration’s unprecedented efforts to return one of our state’s most precious resources to health. Since 2011, $18.7 million has been specifically directed to springs protection. Here are some tips to protect groundwater in Florida: Use less by not over-watering your lawn Consider Florida-friendly landscaping Water in the early morning hours to avoid evaporation Install rain sensor devices on sprinkler systems Fix leaky faucets and toilets that run continuously Don’t pour medications or poisonous chemicals down household drains or toilets Use water-saving toilets, faucets and appliances Limit fertilizer and pesticide use, follow the label directions Maintain your septic system by having tanks pumped and inspected every three to five years Test your drinking water wells once a year for coliform bacteria and nitrate Encourage and support businesses that are water-conscious For more information on National Groundwater Awareness Week, click here.

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Reef fish statewide phone conference is March 11th

(Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.) Reminder: FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management is hosting a statewide telephone conference tomorrow night, Tuesday, March 11 to gather input on a proposed Gulf Offshore Recreational Fishing Permit. If you've been unable to attend one of our in-person workshops, this phone conference is for you. The proposal would create a no-cost permit or registry system for recreational anglers targeting reef fish such as red snapper, grouper, amberjack and gray triggerfish in the Gulf of Mexico in an effort to improve data collection. Please pass this informaiton along to anyone you think might be interested in learning more about this proposal and/or providing input. We need to hear from you. The phone conference is from 6 to 8 p.m. EDT. To participate, please call 850-487-0554 today or tomorrow between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to obtain instructions on how to join the meeting. There is also a meeting Wednesday, March 12, in Pensacola from 6 to 8 p.m. CDT at the Escambia County Extension Office Auditorium, 3740 Stefani Road.

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Spring programs at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve

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Maritime Movie at the Crooked River Lighthouse

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Apalachicola National Forest prescribed burning today in Liberty County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The U.S. Forest Service is prescribed burning in the Apalachicola National Forest today.

The 2,431 acre prescribed burn will take place west of Highway 67 in Liberty County between Forest Highway 13 and Forest Roads 126 and 183. The burn will improve wildlife habitat, eliminate vegetation build up and reduce the threat of wildfires.

People are reminded that the smoke they may see today and tomorrow in this vicinity is not coming from a wildfire.  Motorists are cautioned to drive slowly with lights on while traveling in smoky areas. Drivers should be particularly cautious in areas where prescribed fires have taken place when it is foggy.  Morning fog can mix with smoke and decrease visibility further. 

This is one of many prescribed burns the Apalachicola National Forest is doing during the 2014 prescribed burning season.  Today’s burn is in burn unit 57 (see the Apalachicola’s planned burn map): http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5438893.pdf. 

Individuals who are sensitive to smoke may continue to monitor us at http://www.fs.usda.gov/news/apalachicola/news-events. 

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Florida DEP permit activity for Gulf County

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BOB MARTINEZ CENTER 2600 BLAIRSTONE ROAD TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA 32399-2400

RICK SCOTT GOVERNOR CARLOS LOPEZ-CANTERA LT. GOVERNOR HERSCHEL T. VINYARD JR. SECRETARY

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Permitting Application Subscription Service Subscriber email address: manager@oysterradio.com   Profile Name: Oyster Radio Permit: Water - Individual With No Conceptual Approval Permit Project Name: PORT ST. JOE PORT AUTH. DREDGE Location id: 274349 Location name: PORT ST. JOE PORT AUTHORITY EASTERN SIDE OF US 98 - DREDGE County: Gulf Application number: 274349-006 For further information, please contact the Northwest District permitting office in Pensacola at (850) 595-8300

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Apalachicola National Forest prescribed burning Saturday in Liberty County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The U.S. Forest Service is prescribed burning in the Apalachicola National Forest on Saturday, March 8.

The 4,089 acre prescribed burn will take place in Liberty County between Forest Roads 125 and 183. The burn will improve wildlife habitat, eliminate vegetation build up and reduce the threat of wildfires.

People are reminded that the smoke they may see today and tomorrow in this vicinity is not coming from a wildfire.  Motorists are cautioned to drive slowly with lights on while traveling in smoky areas. Drivers should be particularly cautious in areas where prescribed fires have taken place when it is foggy.  Morning fog can mix with smoke and decrease visibility further. 

This is one of many prescribed burns the Apalachicola National Forest is doing during the 2014 prescribed burning season.  Today’s burn is in burn units 83, 84 and 85. (see the Apalachicola’s planned burn map): http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5438893.pdf. 

Individuals who are sensitive to smoke may continue to monitor us at http://www.fs.usda.gov/news/apalachicola/news-events. 

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Local teachers receive SHINE award

The Governor and Cabinet on Thursday recognized five area teachers, including teachers from Franklin and Gulf Counties, with the Governor’s Shine Awards.

The Shine Award is presented to Floridians who have positively helped Florida students through education.

The teachers who were recognized were recently named 2014 District Teachers of the Year in their respective counties.

The recipients included Katrina Ham from the Franklin County School.

Ham began working at Franklin County School in 2004 as a 1^st grade teacher and currently teaches 3^rd grade. 

She is always trying to learn new techniques and strategies to meet the needs of her students.

Tracy Bowers of Wewahitchka Elementary School was also recognized.

Bowers is a native of Gulf County and is a 4^th grade teacher

She has the highest student learning gains in her school.

Each of Florida’s 67 school districts selects a Teacher of the Year who is then considered for statewide recognition.

The Florida Teacher of the Year is chosen from 192,000 public school teachers throughout the state by a selection committee representing teachers, principals, parents and the business community.

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WFSU to premiere new film on Saturday in Apalachicola

WFSU will premier an original film this weekend in Apalachicola.

The program, called “In the Grass, on the Reef : Oyster Doctors” will have its  world premiere at 4 PM on Saturday at the Ft. Coombs Armory in Apalachicola.

The production follows four years of research into the ecology of the coast.

It focuses on the research of two Florida State University marine ecologists. Dr. David Kimbro and Dr. Randall Hughes as they study coastal ecosystems and their investigation into the Apalachicola Bay oyster fishery collapse.

The premiere will be followed by an informal Q&A with Dr. Randall Hughes.

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FWC Law Enforcement Weekly Report 02/28 - 03/06/2014

 

Weekly Report

February 28, 2014 - March 6, 2014

This report represents some events the FWC handled over the past week;

however, it does not include all actions taken by the Division of Law Enforcement.

Patrol, Protect, Preserve

 NORTHWEST REGION

JACKSON COUNTY

Officer Guy received information while off duty regarding subjects taking freshwater game fish with a cast net at the Spring Creek Park in Marianna. Officer Guy was close to the area and responded in an attempt to observe the subjects from a concealed position. While en route, he contacted Officer Baber and advised him of the possible violations which were occurring. Officer Guy arrived and observed a subject fishing with a cast net and keeping what appeared to be several freshwater game fish. Officer Baber arrived on scene as the subjects were attempting to leave with their catch. Officers Guy and Baber made contact with the subject and found him in possession of 10 freshwater game fish (bream) which were caught with the cast net. Appropriate citations were issued.

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Officer Lewis was working in the Blackwater Wildlife Management Area (WMA) when he reached the end of what appeared to be a deserted road.  When he exited his vehicle, he was surprised to hear someone say, “Hey, buddy.”  He shined his light towards the voice and saw a young male holding a beer in the edge of the woods.  He determined that two subjects had driven past the end of the road down to the river and got stuck.  The vehicle caused a large amount of damage to the wetlands near the river.  He issued the driver a notice to appear for damaging state lands by motor vehicle.  The subject holding the beer was recognized as someone who Officer Lewis had recently cited for possession of alcoholic beverages by a person under the age of 21.  That subject was given a notice to appear for his second offense.

WALTON COUNTY

Officers Brooks and Letcher observed a parked vehicle with footprints around it indicating someone had entered the Nokuse Plantation property. Officer Brooks followed the prints through a wooded area and located three subjects hunting on the property which was posted and fenced. The subjects were arrested and booked into the Walton County Jail for trespassing on property other than a structure or conveyance while armed with a firearm.

COPS (COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING)

OKALOOSA COUNTY

Lieutenant Hollinhead spoke to a group of Royal Rangers at Lifepoint Church in Crestview about fish management and the duties of an FWC officer. Approximately 20 youth were present.

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Everything you ever wanted to know about oysters on March 7th, 2014

• Shucks! Oysters enliven menus throughout Atlanta
• Juvenile solution to oyster water quality issues
• House Bill Could Mean Big Changes for York County Oyster Farming
• Good to know: 5 types of oysters
• Oyster growers want a 'fair go'
• Oyster growing pollutes rivers
• Commercial shellfish industry’s Peninsula home keeps looking to the future
• Aquaculture bill means changes for York oyster farming
• Oysters use sounds to choose their home
• Five of the best: oyster bars in Paris

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4 companies bid on Alligator Point revetment project

County commissioners opened bids last week to repair about 1000 feet of revetment at Alligator Point but because the issue is under litigation it could be a while before any work gets done.

The section of revetment is east of Tom Roberts Road – its an elevated section of road that can’t be relocated.

So instead the county will repair the revetment by removing the existing concrete rubble and debris and replacing it with clean granite rock.

The county would have liked to place sheet pile along that section of shoreline to better protect the roadway, but doesn’t have the money for that type of work.

The project is being funded through money received from FEMA after Tropical Storm Debbie.

4 companies bid for the job, the bids ranged from 74 thousand dollars to over 164 thousand.

County staff will recommend the best bid at a future commission meeting, but the work could still be months away because of a lawsuit over the revetment project.

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Five vehicle burglaries reported to unsecured vehicles in Wakulla County

Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office detectives are investigating five vehicle burglaries that were reported overnight March 5 and March 6 on Ross Drive and Linzy Store Road in Crawfordville, according to Sheriff Charlie Creel.

One victim reported the theft of a DVD player while items taken from other victims included cigarettes, a flashlight, firearm, holster and handgun magazine. The victims reported that they failed to secure their vehicles before retiring for the night.

The stolen property is valued at $50 or less except for the firearm, holster and magazine which are valued at $1,110. The weapon was entered into the NCIC/FCIC data base as stolen.

Sheriff Creel reminded the public to always lock you vehicle and remove valuable belongings. None of the five vehicle burglary cases reported involved secured vehicles.


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Wounded veterans get outdoors through "Operation Outdoor Freedom"

The Northwest Florida Water Management District recently hosted its second Operation Outdoor Freedom hunt.

Operation Outdoor Freedom is a project that offers recreational opportunities, including hunting and fishing, to wounded veterans on state and agricultural lands.

Through the program, designated areas are equipped to accommodate the special needs of wounded veterans, providing an opportunity for recreation and rehabilitation that is not available through any other state program.

During the hunt in early February, six wounded veterans spent a weekend deer hunting on District land in the Econfina Creek Water Management Area in Bay and Washington counties.

Thanks to donations and support from individuals and local businesses, including the Prebble–Rish Engineering firm, the District was able to provide meals for all participants, along with volunteers, camping accommodations and equipment for the hunt.

Since the program was established in 2010, Operation Outdoor Freedom has hosted more than 200 wounded veterans on 10 different state forests.

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Franklin County considering allowing vendors at Carrabelle Beach

County Commissioners are considering allowing a limited number of vendors to operate at Carrabelle Beach this year.

The county has been approached by a vendor who would like to sell Sno-Cones at the beach this summer.

Because of the limited amount of space at Carrabelle Beach, only two vendors could operate on county property without impacting parking.

County Administrative Director Alan Pierce said the permits would probably have to be given on a first come first served basis.

Commission have taken no action on the proposal yet, but will make a decision after the county attorney has had time to take a closer look at the issue.

Vendors can not set up in the St. George Island Public beach because of a reverter clause on the property that says the county can not allow commercial activities within the property.

That issue does not impact Carrabelle Beach. 

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Camp Gordon Johnston Days this weekend

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Fri, 3/7/14 SEAHAWK SCOOP

  Bulletin.3.7.14

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Franklin county Commissioners approve 700 thousand dollars in Armory repairs

County commissioners agreed this week to spend about 700 thousand dollars on necessary repairs to the Armory in Apalachicola.

The work will include fixing a draining issue off of Avenue A where water is seeping under the Armory and causing the building to settle.

The building will also be stabilized in that area to keep it from settling further.

The project will also include adding 40 tons of air conditioning to the building, moving the bathroom facilities, and installing a new entranceway and doors on the side of the building.

The project will be paid for through the Tourist Development Council.

The TDC expects to have about 500 thousand dollars by the end of this year and another 250 thousand dollars for the project next year.

The work is the most necessary parts of a much larger project to bring the 114 year old building up to code so it can be used as a convention center and destination for private events like weddings.

Completely renovating the building will cost nearly 2.4 million dollars.

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Governor Scott Presents Five 2014 District Teachers of the Year with Shine Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMarch 6, 2014

CONTACT: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE (850) 717-9282media@eog.myflorida.com

Governor Scott Presents Five 2014 District Teachers of the Year with Shine Awards

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – During today’s meeting of the Florida Cabinet, Governor Rick Scott recognized five outstanding educators for their contributions to learning with the Governor’s Shine Awards. The Shine Award is presented to Floridians who have positively helped Florida students through education. The teachers were recently named 2014 District Teachers of the Year in their respective counties.

Governor Scott said, “I am honored to recognize these five 2014 District Teachers of the Year for their commitment to education in Florida. Teachers provide our students with the framework needed to succeed in the classrooms and beyond. With this foundation in place, Florida’s students are among the best in the nation.”

Shine Award Recipients:

Lynn Taylor Green, Baker County, Westside Elementary School – Green is in her 18^th year as an educator at Westside Elementary School. She has served as a 2^nd grade teacher, and for the last five years, as the instructional coach. Green has been chosen twice by her peers as Teacher of the Year at her school, and she has proven to be an outstanding teacher and leader.

Alison Beck, Bay County, Tommy Smith Elementary School – Beck has been teaching with Bay District Schools for 15 years. She has a passion for music and maintaining the fine arts programs in elementary schools. She believes music can be incorporated in many classroom subjects, such as math, reading and vocabulary. She has served multiple years as president of the Bay District Schools Elementary Music Teachers Council.

Frances Jethro, Bradford County, Brooker Elementary School – Jethro began teaching for the Bradford County School District in 2011.  For the past two years, she has taught at Brooker Elementary School where she currently teaches first grade. She has worked with several dance troupes in lyrical dance and drama, and coordinated various school musicals. 

Katrina Ham, Franklin County, Franklin County School – Ham began working at Franklin County School in 2004 as a 1^st grade teacher. She is currently working as a 3^rd grade teacher.  She strives to learn new techniques and strategies to meet the needs of her students. She has a wonderful rapport with her students and demonstrates a positive attitude among her peers. 

Tracy Bowers, Gulf County, Wewahitchka Elementary School – Bowers is a native of Gulf County.  Currently, she is a 4^th grade teacher at Wewahitchka Elementary School. Her drive to teach is commendable. Bowers has the highest student learning gains in her school. A visit to her classroom inspires students, parents and teachers on a daily basis.

Each of Florida’s 67 school districts selects a Teacher of the Year who is then considered for statewide recognition. The Florida Teacher of the Year is chosen from 192,000 public school teachers throughout the state by a selection committee representing teachers, principals, parents and the business community. Florida’s top educator is selected on the basis of the superior ability to teach and communicate knowledge of the subject taught, professional development, philosophy of teaching, and outstanding school and community service. The most important qualification is the teacher’s ability to inspire a love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities.

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6 Endangered Sea Turtles will be released back into the Gulf of Mexico on Friday.

6 Endangered Sea Turtles will be released back into the Gulf of Mexico on Friday.

The turtles were among over 200 that were rescued this year for cold stun rehabilitation after severe cold snaps.

The turtles are cold blooded.

They cannot thermo regulate their body temperature and as a result, the cold temperatures place the animals in a hypothermic state and they become very weak.

Most of the turtles were released quickly, but eight sea turtles required further rehabilitation due to various secondary illnesses such as pneumonia and impaction.

The 6 turtles that will be released by the Gulf world marine Institute on Friday include 4 juvenile green sea turtles and one juvenile Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle.

The release will take place at noon at Cape Palms Park in Cape San Blas. 

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Oyster Doctors-World Debut Documentary in Apalach March 8

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Mexico Beach: March 2014 eNewsletter

View Online | Unsubscribe Photo Gallery | Beach Cam | Contact Us   eNewsletter · March 2014 Our Gumbo Cook-Off was the Biggest Ever! On the 15th of February, we had our 16th Annual Gumbo Cook-Off and it was a success. We had the biggest crowd anyone could remember. We don’t have an official count, but all estimates exceed 2,000 visitors. We had 26 competitors and sold out of everything except beer. It was a big success and all proceeds will go to the Best Blast on the Beach July 4th event. The following were this year’s winners: Restaurant-Gumbo 1st Place: Fish House Restaurant; Mexico Beach, FL 2nd Place: The Thirsty Goat; Port St. Joe, FL 3rd Place: Mango Marley’s; Mexico Beach, FL Amateur-Gumbo 1st Place: Sowega Coonasses; Leesburg, GA 2nd Place: Mo Betta Gumbo; Steinhatchee, FL 3rd Place: Roux Health Check Inc.; Mexico Beach, FL Brunswick Stew 1st Place: Camp Creek Cookers; Mexico Beach, FL 2nd Place: Biker Brew Crew; Port St. Joe, FL 3rd Place: El Go Gumbo; Mexico Beach, FL Best Team Spirit El Go Gumbo; Mexico Beach, FL Best Decorated Camp Creek Cookers; Mexico Beach, FL Furthest Traveled Gumbo Guroux; North Charleston, SC Special Events for Mexico Beach, the committee that puts on the Gumbo Cook-Off, would like to thank everyone for their support of the event. We hope to see you next year, February 21, 2015. Meet Mexico Beach This month we would like to reintroduce you to a business that has moved and expanded—Frost Pottery Garden and Gifts. Jay and Dena Frost are now located at the corner of Highway 98 and 36th Street and online atwww.frostpotterygarden.com. They have increased their services and products. In addition to pottery, they have live plants, gifts, various home decor, jewelry, and much more. Stop by and visit when you have a chance. They may have exactly what you are looking for. And the Winner Is… Last month we gave away a basket of cheer that included a cookbook written by theMexico Beach Artificial Reef Association, a Mexico Beach T-shirt, and a dining gift certificate. The lucky winner was Glenda Anderson from Adamsville, TN. Once again we had so many entrants that we have decided to give away another basket of cheer. If you would like to put your name in the hat, send an e-mail to melissa@mexicobeach.com. Please be sure to include your contact information. This month’s basket will hold a Mexico Beach T-shirt, Mexico Beach coffee mugs, and bag of Mexico Beach coffee. Mexico Beach Fishing Report March Spanish mackerel and pompano will be the focus along the beaches and jetties this time of year. Beach fishermen will see the birds’ feeding activity increase along with a few days of morning fog that will signal the arrival of these tasty predators. The Mexico Beach pier is a great place to spend a few hours casting a “gotcha” plug to the passing Spanish mackerel schools. The minimum length is 12 inches to the inside of the fork and there is a bag limit of 15 fish per person. Mexico Beach offers some of the best sport fishing in the world. For a complete list of charter services, marina info, and reef coordinates visit mexicobeach.com. Mark Your Calendars Snowbird Appreciation Luncheon March 6 We always look forward to our visitors coming back each year and we celebrate their return with a luncheon in March. All food and drinks are complimentary and we will have live entertainment and door prizes. We hope all our winter residents will join us. Beach Blast Triathlon & Duathlon - Spring Race April 26 Athletes from all over will travel to our area to run, bike, and swim in this USA Triathlon & Duathlon sanctioned event. Well-marked courses follow along the beautiful white-sand beaches and pine forests of the Gulf Coast. This sprint is organized by certified staff and wonderful volunteers who love the sport. Florida’s Forgotten Coast Plein Air Invitational May 1–11 More than 20 nationally acclaimed artists will gather on Florida’s Forgotten Coast to participate in the 9th annual Florida’s Forgotten Coast Plein Air Invitational, America’s Great Paint-Out. Painters will set up their easels and pull out their brushes to document the landscape and culture of this last vestige of authentic “Old Florida” – the coastal stretch of scenic North Florida between Mexico Beach and Alligator Point. Recipe of the Month Shrimp Casserole This month we want to thank MBARA for providing us with this delicious recipe. This recipe and others can be found in the MBARA cookbook, which can be purchased online atwww.mbara.org. INGREDIENTS 2 lb. fresh shrimp, boiled and peeled 1 lb. fresh mushrooms, chopped 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can French-fried onion rings 2 cups grated cheese 1 onion, chopped DIRECTIONS Mix all ingredients, except the onion rings. Put in a casserole dish and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Take out of oven and add the onion rings. Place back in oven and bake until rings are brown. Serve hot. Thoughts for the Month Wisdom of the Irish This month we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, and one of the traditions of Ireland is the limerick. Named after a city by that name in Ireland, every limerick has five lines and some other limitations. We thought we would remind our friends of some of the more clever limericks. ERIN GO BRAGH! There was a young lady of Cork, Whose Pa made a fortune in pork; He bought for his daughter A tutor who taught her To balance green peas on her fork. There was a young lady of Kent, Whose nose was most awfully bent. She followed her nose One day, I suppose -- And no one knows which way she went. To compose a sonata today, Don’t proceed in the old-fashioned way: With your toes on the keys, Bang the floor with your knees: “Oh how modern!” the critics will say. I’d rather have Fingers than Toes; I’d rather have Ears than a Nose; And as for my Hair, I’m glad it’s all there: I’ll be awfully sad, when it goes. I bought a new Hoover today, Plugged it in in the usual way, Switched it on - what a din; It sucked everything in, Now I’m homeless with no place to stay.   Mexico Beach   |   Things to Do   |   Places to Stay   |   Weddings & Special Events     Business Listings   |   News & Events   ©2014 Mexico Beach Community Development Council | (850) 648-8196 or (888) 723-2546 | info@mexicobeach.com 102 Canal Parkway, Mexico Beach, FL 32456

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