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12An Experience Like No Other

The vintage wooden fleet on the island

21Kevin Hyde: Your Lifestyle

is His BusinessA leader in Boca Grande Realty

24Partnerships, Progress

and TeamworkThree great organizations

working together for conservation and discovery

26The Mote-Boca Grande

PartnershipEngaging the region and the

community in tarpon education

28Today’s Research for Tomorrow’s Oceans

A look into Mote Marine Laboratory and its programs

30The Mote Marine

Satellite Office Opens on Boca Grande

Expanding Conservation Research and Education

32Snook & Tarpon Stock

Enhancement And Habitat Protection Initiative

Replenishing fish and protectingthe places they live

36Sea Lions: On The Waters Edge

An exciting exhibit featuring Patagonian and California sea lions

38Back to the Future

Restoration of tarpon habitats

8 BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE WINTER 2013

21

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53A Taste of the Island

The Loose Caboose

56Update: Deepwater Horizon

Oil SpillUnderstanding the impact

on the Gulf

Departments10

Island TalkHighlights on local business

44Island Must Haves

Products that you’ll love

60On the wild side

Discover our wildlife

62It’s five o’clock somewhere

Cocktail recipe

64Business Directory

Resources at your fingertips

66In Our Next Issue

What to look forward to

follow us on

For advertising information, please call ROI Media at (941) 257-4352

To contact the Editorial Department, please e-mail [email protected]

www.roimedia.uswww.bocagrandemagazine.com

Please mail any correspondence to:Boca Grande Magazine2500 Bobcat Village Center Road, Unit GNorth Port, FL 34288

Boca Grande Magazine is published by ROI Media. The editorial staff makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information presented herein. ROI Media is not liable for errors or interpretations. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any advertising and/or editorial copy. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, in any form, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Staff ListAdam BartolottaPublisher

Danette BartolottaManaging Editor

Jessica HobbsAssistant Editor

Joyce CattelaneCopy Editor

Lynda VendittiArt Director

Trevin StegerGraphic Designer

Matt MativiDirector of Sales & Marketing

Photographic Images by HeidemarieContributing Photographer

On the Cover 12 An Experience Like No Other

9WINTER 2013 BOCA GRANDE MAGAZINE

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Does your business have

something to say?

If you would like to have your business

news featured in this section, please call

(941) 257-4352.

Cruisin Coastlines Cruisin Coastlines is line of jewelry de-picting the beautiful Coastlines of Flor-ida and other locations from around the world. Designer/creator Jason Paul Marien hand finishes his Gold and sterling silver jewelry to reveal the dis-tinctive topography of the coastline. His most sought after pieces are enam-eled to mirror the beautiful colors that the ocean creates. Each piece will bring a person back to a memory of a loca-tion, whether it was on a beach where you were married or a sunset you have never forgotten. For more information visit www.cruisincoastlines.com.

Bedmasters Introduces SW Florida’s Only True 100% Organic Natural MattressBedmasters of Port Charlotte introduced its newest line of mat-tresses in January 2013. The mattresses feature 100% organic latex in various levels of comfort covered with the finest organically grown and handled wool on the market. This product is available for testing at their showroom at 4105 Tamiami Trail in Port Char-lotte. Delivery is free to the Island, and remember to Buy Your “Mattress Where It’s Built!”

Galloway Roofing, A name you can trust.Galloway Roofing is prospering with a new location , 7253 Gaspa-rilla Road just outside of Boca Grande. Whether you are seeking a free consultation or ready for your roof remodel, let owner Dave Galloway and his team of honest, hard working professionals make your roof project successful. They use several “green” roof-ing materials that are guaranteed to keep your home dry! Mem-ber: Englewood/Cape Haze Chamber of Commerce, Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce, Placida Rotary and Keep Charlotte Beautiful (Galloway Roofing Adopt-A-Road). Find them on Face-book. Call (941) 697-3737 or visit www.gallowayroofing.com for more information.

The Fishery Restaurant Built in 1988 by the Albritton Family on the grounds of the historic Gasparilla Fishery in Placida, The Fishery tradition is old waterfront dining with a view that is wonderful and food that is even better.Located at the gps address of 13000 Fishery Rd Placida 33946 . Res-ervations can be made at (941) 697-2451. Visit the delightful shops that dot the Placida Circle adjacent to the fishery restaurant.

Photographic Images, LLCThe New Year has started at Photographic Images, LLC with a lot of assignments varying from business headshots and passport photographs to big commercial jobs with architectual and prod-uct photography. Several artists have come to us to have their art work photographed as well. We are processing many orders for family portraits taken over the Holidays and now Spring Break bookings are filling up fast. I will be photographing many of the

Island Talk

island parties and fundraisers in this social season. For more infor-mation, call (941) 475-5148 or visit www.heidemariephoto.com.

King Fisher Fleet Offer New Sight-Seeing Cruise to Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island. This cruise departs from Fishermen’s Village Marina, in Punta Gor-da to Boca Grande on Fridays. Other cruises include all-day trips to Cabbage Key and Cayo Costa, half-day eco-style tours of the Peace River and to Burnt Store Marina, afternoon harbor tours and daily sunset cruises. Private charters for weddings, birthdays and other events are available. King Fisher Fleet also offers inshore and off-shore fishing charters. Call (941) 639-0969 for more information.

Kyle Kurtis Salon & Spa This full service hair salon & day spa has been serving the North Port Area for the past five years. In those five years they have been voted Best Salon, Best Massage Therapy and Medium Business of the Year. They have continued to grow year after year. Owner Amy Schuldt contributes the success of the salon to their community involve-ment, licensed and dedicated team of professionals, great customer service, ongoing education and loyal clients. Kyle Kurtis has now opened their second location at SR 776 and Gasparilla Rd. in the Publix Plaza. The new location offers a full service hair salon, facials, massage, waxing and permanent makeup. Nail services are only of-fered at the North Port location at this time. The new salon is open Monday-Saturday with evening hours available Tuesday-Thursday. Visit them at 13435 S. McCall Rd or call for an appointment at (941) 830-8344. You may also sign up to receive their monthly newsletter by visiting their website www.Kyle-Kurtis.com.

Truex Preferred Construction Specializing in all phases of construction from small to large proj-ects. Are you thinking of remodeling or new construction? Would you like to update your kitchen with new cabinets and counter-tops? How about replacing your old tub/shower and fixtures? Want to expand your living space with an addition or enclosing your lanai? Let our team of professionals help you create your “Dream”. Call Truex Preferred Construction for a free estimate today (941) 475-6680.

Granny NANNIES Home Care Services are Tailored to you Individual NeedsWhether you need a health-care professional only a few hours a day or around the clock, or whether in your home or in an alter-nate care facility. Total care includes: bathing, turning, toileting, feeding, grooming, respite care, RN Case Managers. Basic care includes meal preparation, doctors appointments, light house-keeping, companions, errands and shopping medication remind-ers, general supervision, range of motion exercises, etc. Call (941) 743-7606 or visit www.grannynannies.com for more information.

Christies International Real Estate and Mayfair International are on Island!Kevin Hyde and Michael Saunders & Company are proud to be the exclusive partner with Christie’s International Real Estate, and Mayfair International for the Boca Grande area. Stop by 420 East

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Railroad in Boca Grande or call (941) 628-4730 and Kevin Hyde will show you why listing your home with Michael Saunders & Compa-ny, Christie’s, and Mayfair will get you the results you are looking for. Call (941) 628-4730 or visit www.bocagrandelistings.com for more information.

Suncoast Humane SocietyThe 5th Annual Tennis Ball Dinner and Silent Auction held at the Boca Grande Club was a huge success raising over $38,000 for the animals and programs of Suncoast Humane Society. Visit www.humane.org for more information.

Creative Window TreatmentsWe create beautiful, elegant and meticulous window treatments that have the ability to transform an entire room. From million dollar homes to manufactured homes, CWT guarantees a quality design and exquisite workmanship with equal attention to detail and enthusiasm. We are a priority dealer for Hunter Douglas, Ado Corporation and many other top shutter and blinds fabrica-tors. For more information call (941) 828-0000 or visit www. mycreativewindow.com.

Adding Warmth to Your HomeWhen is comes to decorating, gray is usually associated as a “cool” color and has an industrial or institutional feel to it. I typically use it sparingly for northern clients due to the overcast skies that are promenade to the area. However in Florida, warm grays look beau-tiful. Grays are beautiful neutrals for monochromatic schemes and for a tropical color scheme. These gray hues are ones that contain a yellow base to them. By using a warm gray color natural stone with ivory versus white accents in a master bathroom shower design will not lend coldness to the design, rather more like a sable coat wrap-ping my showering client in luxury. Warm grays started to appear two years ago in furniture introductions of weathered gray woods projecting an urban casual style. Mellowed gray has been a staple of beach style, but this new variation seems more luxurious, upscale, contemporary and transitionally featured in more smooth versus rough textured materials. Z Interior Decorations specializes in resi-dential interior design and ready to design your next project. You can visit us online at www.zinteriordecorations.com or by calling us at 941-575-9891.

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When residents and visitors alike explore the crystal clear waters of Boca Grande, it’s nat-ural to come across exquisite boats cruising across the glassy surface. It is only natural to soak up the beauty of the beaches, wa-ter, and wildlife that surrounds you. Now, something new will catch your eye that has never been seen before on this island: a collection of magnificent vintage mahogany boats. You may re-member them from old movies or heard about them in stories from your grandparents. Wel-come, Cavana Classic Charters.

Cavana Classic Charters, a luxury boat char-tering business that offers much more than day trips upon their vintage wooden boats. They offer memorable experiences that you, your family and guests will never forget. Pas-sengers can step back in time while enjoy-ing the luxury and legacy of names such as Riva, Chris Craft, Fay and Bowen and Minett Shields. When you board one of Cavana’s Classics vessels, you will feel as if you have been transported back in time. The nostalgia from the progressive and golden era will en-gulf you while on your voyage.

An Experience

Like No Other

Photo by Lou Freeman

Written by Danette Bartolotta

Photo by Lou Freeman

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Photo by Adam Bartolotta

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Mark and Caroline Clark’s story is nearly that of a fairy tale. Mark is from Huntsville, Alabama and Caroline is from Mountain Brook, a suburb of Birmingham. They met when Caroline was in nursing school and Mark was in private practice as an Oral and Maxillofacial Sur-geon. Mark subsidized his college tuition by restoring old Porsches and Mercedes. Ever since he was a young boy, Mark has always had a keen interest in antique cars and vintage motorcycles. Through the years they have owned, restored and showed everything from Porsches, Ferraris, Maserati, Bentleys, Rolls-Royces and Duesenbergs. While raising their children Mark and Jeanette, the car collection continued to grow and vintage motorcycles became an additional interest. Weekends were often spent renting a cabin on Lake Martin, located south of Birmingham. Lake Martin hosted a vintage wooden boat show each summer, which piqued their curiosity in a new hobby. A new home

was purchased that had a separate boat house with three slips that gave them the opportunity to store and collect mahogany boats. Mark began researching vintage wood-en boats approximately 15 years ago and he purchased his first classic vessel around 10 years ago. Merlin, a 26’ front engine gold cup racer that originated from Australia, was the first piece of their collection. This boat was purchased in Newport, Rhode Island from Nicolas Cage and from there, their collection started to grow exponentially.

The Clarks now consider the relaxing island town of Boca Grande their home. They purchased their home here in 2005. With the children at the Lawrenceville School and then off to college the Clarks found themselves spending more and more time in Boca Grande. They enjoy this area particularly for the community feel, the beautiful sur-roundings, and the great people on the island.

The Clarks now consider the relaxing island town of Boca Grande their home. They enjoy this area particularly for the community feel, the beautiful surround-ings, and the great people on the island.

Photo by Adam Bartolotta

Photo by Adam Bartolotta

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The attraction to Boca Grande came from fond memories with Caroline’s grandparents. “As a child I would visit my grandparents, Kathleen and Pratt Rather, who spent their winters here. Now our family has come full circle. From vaca-tions, to purchasing a home, and now running a blooming charter business,” stated Caroline. The Clarks’ children have integrated much of their love of the area into their lives. “Our daughter, Jeanette, graduated from Columbia University NYC and currently studies at the University of Hawaii. Her specific area of study is Physical Oceanography with a concentration in Near Shore Waves and Currents. She has conducted re-search in Guam and the islands of Hawaii. She is seeking to join the Navy to further her studies and career.” Their son, Mark, graduated Hamilton College with dual degrees in Spanish and Economics. He works for Citigroup in Manhat-tan, specializing in Latin American investments. “Both chil-dren are avid fishermen. They love Boca Grande and visit the island as often as possible,” said Caroline.

With a collection of vintage boats in Alabama, Caroline want-ed to bring something special to cruise around Boca Grande. The couple felt the need to share their love for the boats and the island by combining a unique experience. “We love the boats and we love Boca Grande. It is important to us that when we are on island relaxing that new memories are made. When you cruise in one of these pristine boats, a new mem-ory is created that you will take with you forever,” exuber-ates Caroline. And from there Cavana Classic Charters was born. Cavana Classic Charters boats from both Boca Grande, Florida as well as Lake Martin in Alabama. All boats can be shipped to any destination for your specific needs or desires.

28’ Riva Aquarama, 1969

22’ Riva Ariston, 1965

40’ San Juan picnic yacht

27’ Chris Craft Replica of a 1940’s triple cockpit racing runabout

32’ Fay and Bowen, 1914

27’ Chris Craft Semi-enclosed cruiser, 1957

22’ Minett-Shields, Front engine runabout, 1937

24’ Yellow Fin Flats and bay boat. Used for exploring

the shallow waters around Boca Grande

Classic Cavana Charters current boat selection

for charter on Boca Grande or Lake Martin:

Photo by Lou Freeman

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“We love the boats and we love Boca Grande. When you cruise in one of these pristine boats, a new memory is created that you will take with you forever.”

Photo by Lou Freeman

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The boats that are available at Cavana Classic Charters are as unique as the excursions available that go with them. With an ever growing and changing fleet of boats there are two that will be staying with the Clarks for the long haul. “I never in my life dreamed that we would own one, yet alone two boats of this caliber,” said Caroline, referring to their Rivas. “Our 1965 Riva Aritston is kept at Lake Martin while our newest and now favorite boat, the 1969 Riva Aquarama, resides on Boca Grande.” Carlo Riva did for boats what Enzo Ferrari did for cars in the years shortly after WWII. In the era of post war Depression, they brought back the excitement and romanticism to Italy. The Riva Aquarama is one, if not the most desirable and col-lectable vintage wooden boat sought after today. Carlo Riva has always been fascinated by Chris Craft, which he believed best represents everything that is Ameri-can. He understood the need for his boats to have American power. So he equiped his boats with Chris Craft engines and the rest is history.

These boats have the best of both worlds: the sexiness of Italy and the raw power of American ingenuity. From the time these boats were launched, the Riva name was linked closely to industrialists, actors and actresses, singers, sports heroes and playboys alike, such as; The Shah of Persia, Prince Rainier of Italy, Princess Soraya, Brigitte Bardot and Sean Connery.

The crew of Cavana Classic Charters consists of a group of talented and professional captains. They are all local captains that have extensive knowledge of the water and the history of the area. Randy Rhines is their main captain and holds his 100-ton masters captain’s license. Randy maintains the fleet and manages all day-to-day operations. Randy said,

Photo by Lou FreemanPhoto by Lou Freeman

Photo by Lou Freeman

Photo by Adam Bartolotta

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“Not only is this a full time job, but a passion.” Their other cap-tains are Mark Liberman, Nelson Italiano, and the owner herself, Caroline Clark. She is also a USCG Licensed captain. Together they have over 100 years of combined charter experience. Cavana Classic Charters’ top priority is safety while providing a magnifi-cent experience. “We’re very serious about the safety and welfare of our guests,” states Caroline. “The entire fleet meets U.S. Coast Guard standards for charter service. All of our captains are trained in lifesaving skills, including CPR.”

What to expect on a charter

You expect nothing less than the ‘wow” factor when you step aboard and cruise in one of Cavana Classic Charters vessels. With an open itinerary that is custom made for you, rest assured that the memories you gain from this experience will be remembered for a lifetime.

Upon booking your excursion, you will be assisted in customizing a personalized itinerary.

Catering for picnics, hors d’oeuvres or dinner is available and can be arranged with their staff. Several local restaurants work with Cavana to provide a delightful culinary experience for each guest. Secluded beach cookouts on the barrier islands may be arranged as well. Bottled water and sodas are provided. Passengers are wel-come to bring their beverage of choice.

With the vast knowledge and experience that Cavana’s captains have, historical information and folklore will readily be shared.

Common daytrips include destinations such as Tarpon Lodge, Usep-pa Island, Cabbage Key, Cayo Costa, Pine Island, Tween Waters, Fort Myers, Saint James City, Sarasota and Sanibel, to name a few.

• Tours of the Barrier Islands for both the amateur and professional photographer wishing to capture island life can be arranged

• Offering brides and bridal parties the perfect entrance or exit for your wedding

• The perfect marriage proposal

• Quality family time that will be remem-bered forever

• An evening sunset cruise with friends

• Sightseeing

• Entertain business clients

• Realtors can show prospective buyers real estate from the water

• Available for film and movie production

• Shipping to various locations is available

• Catered picnics on secluded beaches

Half Day and Full Day Trip Excursions

Cavana Classic Charterswww.cavanacharters.com

(941) 875-4946

Photo by Lou Freeman

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Boca Grande and the surrounding areas of Placida, Cape Haze and the barrier islands of Little Gasparilla, Palm and Don Pedro are indeed some of the most unique areas in Florida. From the large estates of some of the nation’s most prominent families to modest getaways and family homes of local fishing families, there certainly is something for everyone in terms of real estate. With such a variety of choices, an experienced, professional Realtor who exclusively serves this unique area is essential. Kevin Hyde is one of the few com-mitted to serving these areas, who has the in-depth knowledge of each and every aspect, from, property values, water depth and quality to the more subtle aspects of a particular neighborhood’s lifestyle.

Kevin Hyde is a Realtor with Michael Saunders & Company on Boca Grande. He specializes in luxury homes on bar-rier islands with a special focus on Boca Grande. In 2007, he was chosen as one of the top 50 “Realtors on the Rise” in the nation by Real Estate Magazine for his high level of customer service and outstanding results. This consistently high level of service demonstrates Kevin’s drive and enthu-siasm to get the best results for his customers. In 2012 he sold nearly his entire inventory of property to local and in-ternational buyers from as far as the Czech Republic, and as close as Boca Grande and Placida.

Kevin has been a full time Boca Grande area Realtor since 2003, but has an even longer history with Boca Grande reaching back to the 1970’s. Born on Long Island, New York, he was raised in Pass-a-grille Florida, and spent many tar-pon seasons in Boca Grande with his father Jack and Broth-er John. In 1992 he moved to Alaska with his family where he worked for the local telephone company in capacities from senior management to engineering and outside plant. When asked “why Alaska?” Kevin replied “We did it for the adventure.” He travelled extensively throughtout Alaska, spending time in remote villages and bush communities.

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Photo by Potographic Images by Heidemarie

Kevin HydeYour Lifestyle is His Business

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Kevin Hyde knows Boca Grande like the back of his hand. Since 2007 he has served the Boca Grande historical Society board of directors, and in 2003 started as a volunteer for the Boca Grande area Chamber of Commerce, where he is now Vice President. “When I came to Boca Grande as a child I loved it, and knew, someday I would call this place home. Upon deciding to move to the area and work

in Real Estate I made a 100% commitment to the Island and its people”. That commitment has driven Kevin to learn as much as possible about the Island, from the surrounding waters, to everything Real Estate. “One of my favorite things about my work is sharing what I have learned over the years, and seeing that knowledge help my clients establish a firm foundation here on the Island”.

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Photo by Potographic Images by Heidemarie

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“I enjoyed making friends and being exposed to many unique cultures. I was very much the outdoorsman. Whenever pos-sible I spent time hunting, fishing and hiking.” Kevin even once drove a dogsled on the famous Iditarod trail, with Joe Reddington, the “Father of the Iditarod.” Although he en-joyed his time in Alaska his heart remained in Florida and he longed to return to Boca Grande. “My father, brother and I had always come to Boca Grande and thought it a very special place. Later I brought my own family to Boca Grande when-ever possible. I’m so grateful for the people of Boca Grande and the support they’ve given me over the years and how it’s enhanced my life,” he said.

Today, Kevin serves Boca Grande, Little Gasparilla, Palm Island, Cape Haze, and Placida. When Kevin first began in real estate he worked for Michael Saunders & Company in Englewood. Shortly after, it became clear that it wasn’t pos-sible to effectively serve the people of Boca Grande from that location. Kevin then made a leap of faith… he left MSC to begin working at one of the leading real estate brokerages in Boca Grande. “Nearly eight years later, Michael Saunders called me on my cell phone and told me of her plans to open an office on Island, Mi-chael said, ‘Kevin, it’s time to come home.’ Once I heard that Carol Stewart, a 22-year vet-eran of the Boca Grande real estate business was going to make the move as well, I jumped at the opportunity. The affiliations with Luxury Real Estate, Mayfair International, Luxury Portfolio, Leading Real Estate Companies of the World and Christie’s International Real Estate were just too strong of an attraction to pass up,” explained Kevin. “I recently read an advertisement where one of our competi-tors was very proud of the market share their affiliation with Luxury Real Estate offered. In it was a pie chart, and Luxury Real estate had a large piece of the pie. I then had to smile to myself as I realized that not only was our company affiliated with Luxury Real Estate but the others as well. I realized what a great decision it was to make the move back to Michael Saunders & Company because now I was no longer limited to offering my clients a piece of the pie but the whole thing.”

Kevin stays actively involved in the local community that he so loves. He currently serves on the board of directors at the Boca Grande Historical Society, vice president of the

Boca Grande Area Chamber of Commerce, and Save the Tarpon. In addition he is a member of the Barrier Island Parks Society, Boca Grande Fishing Guides Association, Mote Marine and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Kevin is also committed to the support of The Suncoast Humane Society, American Cancer Society, Ronald McDonald House and All Children’s Hospital. When local nonprof-its call, Kevin answers. Professional memberships include the Englewood Area Board of Realtors, the Florida Asso-ciation of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors, The International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI), and International Consortium of Real Estate Associa-tions (ICREA).

Kevin remains one of the area’s leading Realtors, and says he owes a lot of that to the people of Boca Grande. “They make my job something I look forward to coming to every

day. It is Boca Grande where I met my wife Nancy.” Kevin currently resides in Rotonda with his wife Nancy, step-son Colin, and four dogs, Bammer, Enzo, Casey and Toby. The love of Boca Grande is a family passion as Nancy also works in Boca Grande for Michael Saunders & Company and daughter Devon works on island at Italiano Insurance and the Temptation. Kevin’s son Evan enjoys coming to the Island with his wife Brittany and their three children; Olivia, Savannah and Hudson. “To say that Boca Grande is a big part of our lives is an understatement; this is home”, says Kevin.

Kevin Hyde’s office is located at Michael Saunders & Com-pany, 420 E. Railroad Avenue on Boca Grande. You can contact him by calling (941) 628-4730. For more informa-tion about Michael Saunders & Company give Kevin a call or stop by the office for a free copy of their magazine, “A Rewarding Experience” www.bocagrandelistings.com.

Kevin remains one of the area’s leading Realtors, and says he owes a lot of that to the people of Boca Grande.

“They make my job something I look forward to coming to every day.”

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What happens when a curiosity develops into research and discovery? Stories begin to be told, excitement builds and creates a passion. The mind acts as a catalyst that is the story of future. Without something as simple as curiosity all of our children’s children and grandchildren may not have the opportunity to know the same views of the Gulf shorelines that we share today. and the beauteous wonders that exist just beneath the water’s surface.

Who would have thought that basking in the Florida sun just off of the In-tra-coastal waters with a fishing pole in hand, staring at the surface of the water, pondering about the happenings of the lesser known creatures of the Gulf, would create a world of great discovery, education and research?

Education, advocacy and conservation are three things that many of the organizations involved with the prominent partnership developed around the Charlotte Harbor waterways. The initiatives and projects may vary; the actions of these people connect them. Bonefish and Tar-pon Trust, Lemon Bay Conservancy and Mote Marine Laboratories are just a few of the organizations that are involved. This partnership was clearly shaped out of a strong passion and desire to keep our captivat-ing shorelines and bays of the Gulf of Mexico, the flora and fauna, and animals that reside along with us as neighbors, are here to stay. It was a natural fit for the three organizations to work together, enabling them to send a stronger message, capture more volunteers, donors and people that care about saving the future of local wildlife.

Bonefish and Tarpon Trust (BTT) is a non-profit organization that is membership-based, dedicated to the conservation of saltwater flats spe-cies, particularly bonefish, tarpon, permit and their habitats. The di-rector of operations at the BTT is Dr. Aaron Adams and also a local resident. Collaborating with experts in marine biology, statistics, eco-nomics and other related fields to gather knowledge will help to better understand, nurture and enhance healthy bonefish, tarpon, and permit populations. They will then use the knowledge gained from research to educate the public about best practices in angling, as well as working alongside resource management agencies to protect and conserve the fisheries. The BTT uses a systematic approach, identifying knowledge gaps and conservation priorities, fund and conduct research to address the gaps, then apply conservation findings by translating the data and sharing this information with sponsors, collaborators and volunteers to educate anglers and guides, contributing to better stewards of the fisheries. The guidelines used along with extensive help from sponsors,

“Conservation is a state of harmony between men and land.”

– Aldo Leopold

PARTNERSHIPSPROGRESSTEAMWORKWritten by Danette Bartolotta

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partners, collaborators, and volunteers, has allowed BTT to make a strong impact with limited resources. For more information about Bonefish and Tarpon Trust, visit www.bonefishtarpontrust.org.

Lemon Bay Conservancy (LBC) is a not-for-profit land trust dedicated to the preservation, protection and acquisition of natural areas important to maintaining the ecological bal-ance of Lemon Bay, Charlotte Harbor, adjacent waters and uplands. In their four decades of service to the community, their message has not changed, staggered or swayed. Saving land, the vision is to forever protect and preserve the natural

features of the Lemon Bay, Charlotte Harbor, surrounding waters and uplands through education and advocacy.

LBC is working with Dr. Adams on a new research initiative for Lemon Creek. A project plan has been developed and the study and documentation of the health in the Lemon Creek system within Wildflower Preserve has begun. The initative will include data throughout the restoration proj-ect that will measure the success of the restoration, pro-viding and improving juvenile tarpon (and snook) habitats. For more information, call (941) 830-8922 or visit www. lemonbayconservancy.org.

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“A lot of people think that scientific knowledge flows only one way: From scien-tists to the community. But over Mote’s nearly 60-year history, we’ve shown that isn’t true. As an indepen-dent organization not tied to government or a university, we’ve always depended on strong ties to the communi-ties that we work in. We’ve often found that we have as much to learn from local resi-dents as we can share.

– Dr. Michael Crosby, senior vice president for research at Mote Marine Laboratory

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Boca Grande is the historical site of the tarpon fishery, the center of tarpon reproduction and a way-station for tarpon that make up the fish-ery for much of the region. Charlotte Harbor is also Mote Marine Laboratory’s historical home. When Mote opened its doors in 1955 as the Cape Haze Marine Laboratory, it was based in nearby Placida.

The recent opening of the new satellite office in Boca Grande brings a regional presence that will engage the community and region in tarpon and other marine research undertaken by Mote in Charlotte Harbor and southwest Florida. It will also highlight new research di-rections designed to support conservation of area fisheries and habitat.

The office opened under the auspices of a community-wide grassroots committee to in-crease knowledge of, and support for, the re-gion’s important marine environment and the conservation of it. The effort was spearheaded by Boca Grande residents Andy Ireland, an honorary Mote trustee, and Captain Philip O’Bannon, director of the new Mote-Boca Grande Partnership.

Work is already under way to expand Mote’s Beach Conditions Report, which provides the public with information about whether beach-es are affected by red tide and other environ-mental conditions, to two sites on the Island thanks to an anonymous donation.

“A lot of people think that scientific knowledge flows only one way: from scientists to the com-munity”, said Dr. Michael Crosby, senior vice president for research at Mote Marine Labora-tory. “But over Mote’s nearly 60-year history, we’ve shown that isn’t true. As an independent organization not tied to government or a uni-versity, we’ve always depended on strong ties to the communities that we work in. We’ve often found that we have as much to learn from lo-cal residents as we can share. This is an exciting partnership that we are embarking on, together.”

The new office is designed to be a focal point and resource where residents and visitors can learn more about local tarpon, snook, shark

and red tide research programs under way. With it will come a series of regular lectures on relevant marine science topics, other pro-grams of interest in the community and up-dates on Mote’s worldwide activities.

Charlotte Harbor is one of Florida’s, and even the nation’s, few remaining healthy estuaries. While there has been degradation over time with increased habitat destruction and other environmental changes, strong science-based conservation programs will play a critical role in preventing further degradation and keeping the local fisheries healthy.

“This is the world’s tarpon fishing capital and it’s also a pretty important place for snook and other gamefish,” said Boca Grande resident and for-mer U.S. Representative Andy Ireland, who is an honorary Mote Marine Laboratory trustee. “This fishery alone is worth millions of dollars to the region’s economy, but more importantly, it’s an invaluable part of the fabric of our community.”

The privilege of living in the Tarpon Capital of the World also comes with a responsibility, he said. “We need to be good stewards of our ma-rine environment. To have good stewardship of a resource, you need to have the participa-tion of knowledgeable residents. We hope the creation of this new satellite office will help bring that about.”

The Mote-Boca Grande PartnershipEngaging the region and the community in tarpon education

U p c o m i n g E v e n t s

Lecture Series: Mote Marine Laboratory is beginning a new Boca Grande Lecture series. Lectures will take place at the Boca Grande Community Center, 131 First Street West, Boca Grande:

• 2:00 PM Feb. 21: Topic to be designated

• 2:00 PM March 26: The Shark Initiative: Continuing a Legacy of Boca Grande- Charlotte Harbor Shark Research with Dr. Robert Hueter

• 2:00 PM April 18: Topic to be designated

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Mote research programs also focus on understanding the population dynamics of manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and coral reefs and on conservation and restoration efforts related to these species and ecosystems.

Today’s Research for Tomorrow’s Oceans

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Mote Marine Laboratory has been a leader in marine research since it was founded in 1955. Today, Mote Marine Laboratory has incorporated public outreach as a key part of its mission. It is an independent nonprofit organiza-tion and has seven centers for marine re-search, the public Mote Aquarium and an Education Division specializing in public programs for all ages.

From its humble beginnings in a tiny shed in a small Florida town, Mote Ma-rine Laboratory has expanded to in-clude a 10.5-acre campus in Sarasota, with field stations and public exhibits in Key West and field stations in eastern Sarasota County, Summerland Key and Charlotte Harbor. Florida’s extensive coastline and marine and estuarine environments have en-abled Mote scientists to build a platform of marine research conducted in the oceanic and nearshore environment.

Mote is dedicated to today’s research for tomorrow’s oceans with an emphasis on world-class research relevant to con-servation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity, healthy habitats and natural resources. From the original focus on sharks, Mote research has expanded to include studies of human cancer using marine models, the effects of man-made and natural toxins on humans and on the environ-

ment, the health of wild fisheries, developing sustainable and successful fish restocking techniques and food pro-duction technologies and the development of ocean tech-

nology to help us better understand the health of the environment. Mote research programs also focus on un-derstanding the population dynamics of manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and coral reefs and on conservation and restoration efforts related to these spe-cies and ecosystems.

Mote Marine Laboratory is one of the world’s few remaining private marine

research laboratories and as a nonprofit organization is funded through federal, state and local grants and through the generosity of individual donors and foundations. Over decades since Mote was created, the world has learned many things about its oceans. One lesson has remained constant: there is still much to discover.

Mote’s vision includes positively impacting public policy through science-based outreach and education. Showcasing this research is Mote Aquarium, open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM 365 days a year. Learn more at www.mote.org. Contact: [email protected] or call (941) 388-4441. Mote Marine Labora-tory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236.

Over decades since Mote was created, the world has learned many things about its oceans. One les-son has remained con-stant: there is still much to discover.

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Photos by Matt Mativi

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Expanding Conservation Research and Education

The Mote Marine Satellite Office Opens on Boca Grande

Former First Lady Laura Bush hailed Mote Marine Labora-tory’s new satellite office on Boca Grande as an important resource for ocean conservation during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, January 9.

The ribbon-cutting marked the opening of the office, which is designed to be a place where residents and visitors can learn about Mote’s current and proposed marine research programs in Charlotte Harbor, as well as all the research, ed-ucation and outreach programs that Mote undertakes from its main campus in Sarasota. More than 100 people attended the event, including children from the Island School, which visited Mote’s Mobile Exhibit on hand for the event.

“I understand, like all of you, the pressures on the Gulf of Mexico,” said Mrs. Bush, a Texas native and part-time

Boca Grande resident, who has been an advocate for ocean conservation since former President George W. Bush desig-nated the first-ever National Marine Monuments, creating 350,000 square miles of protected underwater areas.

“The Gulf of Mexico is a dynamic marine and coastal envi-ronment utilized by tens of millions of people…Mote Ma-rine Laboratory’s new satellite office here will be an impor-tant resource for current and proposed research that will help Charlotte Harbor remain one of the state’s, and even the nation’s, healthiest estuaries… Your efforts will pro-tect this beautiful part of the country for our children, our grandchildren and even our grandchildren’s grandchildren.”

For Mote, opening the office is like coming full circle, said Dr. Kumar Mahadevan, president and CEO of the Lab. Mote was

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created at the Cape Haze Marine Lab in Placida “just a few blocks from where we are today,” he said during the ceremony. “We’re glad that our founding director, Dr. Eugenie Clark, who still works with us at the lab, is here today for this ceremony. We’re also honored that Mrs. Bush could be with us for this historic occasion.”

Dr. Michael Crosby, Mote’s senior vice presi-dent for research, introduced the gathered crowd to the five core research initiatives that Mote will focus on in Charlotte Harbor:• Satellite and acoustic tagging of tarpon, in

order to better understand the species’ movement, patterns and habitat use in the Harbor

• Studies of snook habitat use and needs• Snook and tarpon restocking studies• The expansion of Mote’s Beach Conditions

Reports to Gasparilla Island (which has al-ready taken place) as well as the expansion of monitoring by underwater robots outfitted with red tide detectors

• Studies of sharks, especially bull and ham-merheads, which follow the tarpon migra-tions annually

“There’s nothing in the world like Mote Ma-rine Laboratory — which combines scientific research with public outreach and education programs,” Dr. Crosby said. “One of our main goals is to enhance ocean literacy among the public so that we can provide the foundation for the responsible use and management of our marine resources. As a nonprofit, independent organization, we rely on grants and the sup-port of communities like Boca Grande. We also rely on strong community support from volunteers. Knowledge isn’t just gained by the scientists alone, but by working with all those folks who live and work on the water.

“We’re very fortunate to have former First Lady Mrs. Bush as a champion for ocean conserva-tion,” he said. “The Mote-Boca Grande partner-ship will help ensure long-term sustainable use

and conservation of marine ecosystems. We want kids like those here today from the Island School to be able to have the same expe-riences in Charlotte Harbor that we have today.”

Former U.S. Representative Andy Ireland, an honorary Mote Marine Laboratory trustee and a Boca Grande resident who is helping spear-head Mote’s Boca Grande efforts, also introduced the office’s new executive director, Capt. Philip O’Bannon. O’Bannon, the most well-known fishing guide on the island, is a sixth generation Floridian who got involved because he wanted to help support the conservation of Charlotte Harbor.

“We’re fortunate to have Mote here to focus on Charlotte Harbor and to aid in its conservation,” said O’Bannon, who also called on com-munity residents to get involved as volunteers to “aid in our efforts.”

During the ceremony, Ireland also recognized some of the other local supporters gathered for the occasion:• Melissa Putnam, wife of Florida commissioner of agriculture and

former U.S. Representative Adam Putnam• Porter Goss, former director of the CIA and southwest Florida

Congressman• Connie Mack III, former Senator• Rob Wells Jr., owner of Cabbage Key Inn and Restaurant and Pine

Island’s Tarpon Lodge• Capt. Mark Futch, owner of Boca Grande Sea Plane/Air Taxi, repre-

senting Useppa Island. Futch is a member of the board of the Isaac Newton Society and a leader in the “Save the Tarpon” initiative

For more information, call (941) 855-9251 or visit the Boca Grande location at 480 East Railroad Ave., Unit 7, Railroad Plaza, during the hours of 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Pictured from left to right, front row: Porter Goss, Capt. Mark Futch, Capt. Phil O’Bannon, Mote board member Judy Graham, Mote founding director, Dr. Eugenie Clark, former First Lady Laura Bush, Dr. Michael Crosby, Mote senior vice president for research, former Senator Connie Mack III. Pictured from left to right, back row: former Congressman Andy Ireland, Mote president & CEO Dr. Kumar Mahadevan and Melissa Putnam.

Former First Lady Laura Bush and Mote president & CEO Dr. Kumar Mahadevan before the opening of Mote Marine Laboratory’s new satellite office on Boca Grande

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Snook & Tarpon Stock Enhancement and Habitat Protection Initiative: Replenishing Fish and Protecting

The Places They Live

Florida has and continues to face unprecedented human growth and development — up to 1,000 people were mov-ing into our state per day just before the Great Recession of 2008. While there has been a decline, experts predict that growth will once again meet and even exceed pre-recession levels. It is increasingly clear that we need new, pro-active and innovative fishery management strategies to rebuild and sustain the quality of Boca Grande-Charlotte Harbor fishing into the future.

In our region, common snook and tarpon are the two most highly sought sport fishes. Unfortunately, they’re also prime candidates for severe population declines because of:• Overfishing

• Red tides

• Extremely cold winters

• Loss of essential habitat, such as mangrove wetlands.

Nowhere in the world is saltwater sport fishing a more important cultural and recreational pastime — as well as a critical part of our regional economy — than in our own state of Florida. Florida saltwater fishing brings an astonishing $5.1 billion annually to our state’s economy. While visitors may see a bountiful catch, local communities and experienced Florida anglers know that fishing here now is not what it once was.

P r o v i d e d b y M o t e M a r i n e L a b o r a t o r y , B o c a G r a n d e O f f i c e

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Where We Are NowTarpon and snook spend much of their juvenile lives sheltering from predators in mangrove creeks. But there have been significant losses of Charlotte Harbor mangrove wetlands and changes in the way that freshwater flows into mangrove creeks and estuaries. These changes make creeks and estuaries less healthy for juvenile fish and even for the prey items that juveniles and adults depend on to survive.

Without healthy places for juvenile fish to live and grow, the adult fish populations in the local and regional fisheries suffer. Only healthy mangrove wetlands and estuaries can sustain wild stocks. These areas are also critical to the creation of a comprehensive fish restocking campaign.

There is an urgent need to identify, protect and restore juvenile tarpon and snook mangrove nursery habitats in the Charlotte Harbor region.

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Without healthy places for juvenile fish to live and grow, the adult fish popula-tions in the local and regional fisheries suffer. Only healthy mangrove wetlands and estuaries can sustain wildstocks.

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Snook & Tarpon Stock Enhancement and Habitat Protection InitiativeBecause snook and tarpon have similar life his-tories as juveniles, we propose a two-pronged Initiative that combines aquaculture-based stock enhancement of wild populations and the resto-ration of critical habitats to ensure the long-term viability of both species in the Boca Grande-Charlotte Harbor region.

• Aquaculture technology for stock enhancement is already available for snook, but is severely un-derfunded.

• Research is needed to confirm essential habitat requirements for these species so we can select

the right release sites, as well as develop bet-ter habitat management plans. Much of the habitat degradation that has occurred in Charlotte Harbor can still be corrected and better planning can help us prevent further habitat loss.

Mass production of snook through aquaculture is “shovel ready” at the Mote Aquaculture Park and could be the source for a significant stock enhancement initiative. For tarpon, however, much better understanding and development of larval foods is required and is likely many years away. We propose to rapidly ramp up mass production of snook for near-term stock enhancement of the Boca Grande-Charlotte Harbor region and implement a major new tarpon aquaculture research program at Mote Aquaculture Park.

In addition, Mote proposes to survey the Char-lotte Harbor region to identify critical habitats for juvenile tarpon and snook, determine which of these locations are protected, which need pro-tection and which require restoration and then design and conduct the restoration projects.

Mote scientists will work with local recreational anglers and resource management agencies to identify and map these areas and, once identi-fied, locations will be sampled to estimate juve-nile tarpon and snook abundance, growth and survival. These locations will be re-sampled on an annual basis to monitor the health of tarpon and snook populations.

Locations that are identified as healthy habitats will be targeted for protection to ensure that these locations remain viable juvenile tarpon and snook habitats. Locations that require restoration will be prioritized and we will begin working with non-governmental conservation groups and state and local resource management agencies to design and implement restoration.

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Mote’s limited-time exhibit featuring sea lions is open to the public! Sea Lions: On The Water’s Edge is an exciting exhibit featuring Patagonian and California sea lions that will be open through May 1 in The Aquarium. The exhibit showcases Pata-gonian sea lions Stella, Rose and Kitty and over time will fea-ture other individual sea lions, each with a distinct personality that helps reveal how cool and complex these mammals can be. This exhibit features special narrated demonstrations that highlight sea lions’ intelligence and natural abilities. The ses-sions take place at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM and 3:30 PM each day.

Protected by the 1972 U.S. Marine Mammal Protection Act, California sea lions have rebounded over the decades. Pat-egonian sea lions, native to South America and not covered by the 1972 law, have also rebounded. In spite of these suc-

cesses, both species continue to face threats that are simi-lar to those faced by some of Florida’s own iconic species, particularly dolphins and sea turtles. Threats include inju-ries from fishing gear and marine debris, along with other complications of living in close proximity to humans.

Sea lions belong to the scientific order Pinnipedia, along with seals, fur seals and walruses. This group name means “wing-footed” or “fin-footed” or even “flipper footed” in Latin, highlighting one feature that helps these marine mammals lead astounding double lives.

Whether you’re a seafarer or landlubber, there’s a lot to love about these animals that spend their lives both on land and in the sea.

Sea Lions: On The Water’s Edge

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Sea Lions: On the Water’s Edge will be included with the price of regular admission to The Aquarium at Mote, which is open from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM seven days per week, including all holidays. The Aquarium is located at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway in Sarasota. The cost for entrance for adults (13 & older) is $19, seniors (65 & older) $18, youth (age 4-12) $14, children (age 0-3) is free and Mote members are free. (Mote members always get in free and have unlimited access to all Mote exhibits, including sea lions.)

Juvenile Sea Lion in the wild

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We’ll never be able to restore all of the habitat that’s been lost, but habitat restoration can be effective. Lemon Creek is a great place to start because juvenile tarpon are still trying to use it.

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Written by Aaron J. AdamsPhotos by Adam Bartolotta

The tarpon with the oldest confirmed age was one that reached at least 63 years before it met an untimely death. It had resided in the Shedd Aquarium in Chica-go for that long. And research on tarpon age using their otoliths (earbones) indi-cates that tarpon might live to 80 years of age. It’s not clear how many reach that ripe old age given the constant threat of shark attack and other challenges of the wild oceans, but some of those big fish that make an angler’s jaw drop surely must have been around for decades.

As I watched a monster tarpon swim by the boat this past summer, cruising by without a worry after refusing the most perfect fly presen-tation ever, I couldn’t help but think about how many changes that old timer must have seen. I was staked out on the beach near Boca Grande Pass. The water was clear, winds were blowing lightly offshore, and there were inexplicably few boats on the water. It probably looked a lot like it did 40 years ago, when that fish might have been swimming that same course, not an angler in sight. On this day, that fish had no reason to be wary; it’s unlikely it had seen other anglers that morning. Perhaps it was a lifetime of expe-rience that caused the refusal.

As I watched the fish swim slowly away along the sandbar, I imagined what it must have been like when, as a new larva, it entered a mangrove creek and transformed into a juve-nile. Could it have been 60 years ago, or more? There must have seemed endless choices to reside, wetlands and creeks covered the coast-line. It’s quite a different story today – much coastal habitat has been lost, and the offspring of this big fish have fewer choices of nursery habitat. The thought made me worried about the future of the fishery.

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to the Future

Back

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Lemon Creek once connected Lemon Bay to a network of shallow, backcountry creeks, ponds and seasonal wetlands. This was perfect habitat for juvenile tarpon and snook. Like much of the coastline, bit by bit the area was developed and the habitat was lost. But remnants of the creek remained and larval tarpon kept arriving. Even now, juvenile tarpon can be seen rolling most mornings in what remains of the creek.

We’ll never be able to restore all of the habitat that’s been lost, but habitat restoration can be effective. Lemon Creek is a great place to start because juvenile tarpon are still trying to

use it. That’s why Bonefish & Tarpon Trust is working with the Lemon Bay Conservancy to restore 80 acres of a defunct golf course that is now called Wildflower Preserve, located just a few miles north of Florida’s world-famous Boca Grande Pass. The goal is to monitor the juvenile tarpon population before the restoration begins in 2013, to determine how many juvenile tarpon live there and how many survive long enough to leave the creek and enter the estuary. We’ll then continue to monitor the juvenile tarpon after the restoration to determine the true benefits of the restoration.

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As JoEllen King (University of Florida graduate student conducting the study) and her crew of volunteers pulled the seine net down the long, narrow pond, they strained to gain a foothold in the soft, mucky bottom that reached thigh depth. The weighted bottom line of the net dug into the muck, making progress painfully slow. Swirls at the surface of the murky water turned into jumping juvenile tarpon, many jumping over the top of the net to freedom. After five minutes of slow progress, the crew finally got to solid ground at the end of the pond and pulled the net in hand over hand. Juvenile tarpon continued to swirl and jump, but many were caught in the billowing end of the net. Quickly transferred into a cooler full of clean water, the crew counted 30 juvenile tarpon for this haul.

Working quickly, they measured each juve-nile tarpon, and took small clips of fin tissue from tarpon smaller than eight inches long. The DNA will be extracted from the tissue and saved in a database. If that tarpon is caught again and a tissue sample taken, it can be iden-tified, providing information on movement, growth and survival. Tarpon longer than eight inches were implanted with a computer chip, similar to what is implanted into pets for iden-tification. Each chip has a 10-digit identifica-tion number that can be read by handheld detectors that look like metal detection wands you see at airports, or by an underwater anten-na that detects the chip if a tarpon swims past.

The data from the monthly sampling will al-low us to estimate survival based on whether tarpon are recaptured, and growth rates for tarpon that are recaptured and measured each month. And if tarpon are able to survive and grow large enough and leave the Preserve by swimming into Lemon Creek, they will be de-tected by the underwater antenna. Combined, this information will tell us how suitable this habitat really is.

Working quickly, they measured each juvenile tarpon, and took small clips of fin tissue from tarpon smaller than eight inches long. The DNA will be extracted from the tissue and saved in a database. If that tarpon is caught again and a tissue sample taken, it can be identified, providing information on movement, growth and survival.

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Sampling at Wildflower Preserve started in September 2012, and will continue monthly for a year before the res-toration occurs. After the bulldozers re-create the contours for wetland and volunteers replant mangroves and other wetland plants, the sampling will resume and will continue monthly for two years. With the year’s worth of pre-res-toration data as a baseline, the post-restoration sampling will tell us how successful the restoration was (more tarpon that grow faster and survive = success), and help us design and conduct more restoration projects in the future.

Habitat restoration is a costly venture. For Wildflower Pre-serve, costs include the price of the land, purchased by Lem-on Bay Conservancy; funds for planning the restoration,

Aaron J. Adams is director of operations for Bonefish & Tarpon Trust

the bulldozer work, the restoration project (approximately $450,000) and the sampling to evaluate the success of the restoration for juvenile tarpon (approximately $110,000). We are extremely appreciative of the generous donations from project sponsors: True Flies, Robertson Foundation, Mick and Kathy Aslin, Vanderbilt Family Foundation, The Orvis Company, Sanibel Fly Fishers – and the numerous individuals who have donated to the project. The project would also not be possible without the help of volunteers who are willing to get dirty to help the tarpon.

If you want to help by making a donation or helping with sampling, please contact us at [email protected].

With the year’s worth of pre-restoration data as a baseline, the post-restoration sampling will tell us how successful the restoration was (more tarpon that grow faster and survive = success), and help us design and conduct more restoration projects in the future.

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Island Must-Haves

Pantone announced the 2013 color of the year…

Why emerald? It’s, “lively. Radi-ant. Lush. A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony.”

Emerald.

Stretch Broadcloth Safari Roll-up Pant

What better way to liven up your wardrobe than by replacing your jeans, slacks or khakis with a fun splash of color. We love pairing these emerald-hued pants with a breezy white top or another bright shade like sunburst or periwinkle for a truly stand-out-look. ($74) at Fresh Produce, 411 Park Ave, Boca Grande, (941) 964-0800.

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Starfish Motif Scarf

We love an every-day-staple piece like this. Scarves are easy-to-wear and incredibly versatile making them a must-have accessory. ($39) at Fresh Produce, 411 Park Ave, Boca Grande, (941) 964-0800.

Adventure Stone Pendant Necklace

Jewelry like the Adventure Stone Pendant Necklace is a simple, yet classic piece to pair with a any outfit from weekend wear to evening wear. ($19) at Fresh Produce, 411 Park Ave, Boca Grande, (941) 964-0800 (941) 964-0800.

Anyday Top in Baja

Worn loose or with a complemen-tary scarf or belt, the Anyday Top will take your emerald color from desk to dinner, and even out to run errands. It’s a great way to pair the year’s hottest color with comfortable, ev-eryday style. ($59) at Fresh Produce, 411 Park Ave, Boca Grande, (941) 964-0800.

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Island Must-Haves

Oyster Creek Short

There may be plenty of things that turn you all cantankerous out there. These shorts won’t be one of them. The back pockets, positioned slightly forward, have slanted openings and velcro closures. Which makes it easy to keep track of their contents. Though you may have to hunt for something else to complain about. ($69.99) at True Flies, www.trueflies.com.

TrueFlies Ball Cap

Classic as a hotdog and a beer in the bleachers. Nearly impossible to improve upon, though we’d argue that the pre-washed fabric and dark under-brim do their part to advance the effort. ($24.99) at True Flies, www.trueflies.com.

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Oakley Polarized Hijinx

In polished black with Shallow Water Blue Lens. ($180) at Boca Grande Outfitters, 375 Park Ave, Boca Grande, 941-964-2445, www.bocagrandeoutfitters.com.

Abel Super 7-8N #8

Stalking the flats for Bonefish and Redfish is the favorite pastime of many fly fishers, and these strong species were what Abel had in mind when the Super 7-8N was designed. A narrow-width spool all but eliminates the need to guide the line onto the reel, while its large arbor allows for an incredible retrieve rate – perfect for recovering line after a blistering run! ($700) at Boca Grande Outfitters, 375 Park Ave, Boca Grande, 941-964-2445, www.bocagrandeoutfitters.com.

Scott S4S 908/4

These industry leading saltwater rods have upped the bar on performance. From the titanium and type 3 anodized corrosion free components to blanks that have proven themselves as exceptional fish fighting tools, S4s rods give you a decisive edge in the salt. Their fast actions balance light in the hand and generate high line speed for quick spot-on presentations. They feature stealthy low glare finishes and the best corrosion resistance available from nickel titanium Recoil snake guides, to SiC strippers housed in full titanium frames to our fully machined reel seats featuring type 3 hard coat anodize finishes. ($725) at Boca Grande Outfitters, 375 Park Ave, Boca Grande, 941-964-2445, www.bocagrandeoutfitters.com.

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Island Must-Haves

Gasparilla Island Bracelet with Enamel

Capture your adventures and allure with this Sterling silver and enamel bracelet. This bracelet shows the Island of Gasparilla. Avail-able in any size. ($175) at Cruisin Coastlines (941) 780-5786, www.cruisincoastlines.com.

Boca Grande Pass Yellow Gold Ring with a Tarpon

Boca Grande Pass ring with black enamel and diamond. The finish is a process of hand workmanship to achieve a one of a kind look. Great for everyday wear from fishing to cruisin. Custom add ons like a “boat name” or a diamond in a special location, are excepted. ($1,100) at Cruisin Coastlines, (941) 780-5786, www.cruisincoastlines.com.

Electric Bicycles

Experience the luxury of the outdoors with 5 new models for 2013. You will find the right E Bike to get you around the island during your electric bicycling adventure. Feel the freedom of power. ($2,499.99) at Caddy Carts, 12691 Tamiami Trail, North Port, (941) 474-4747, www.caddy-carts.com.

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Island Must-Haves

Tropical Cotton Polo

This one is all about looking and feeling fantastic. Distinguished by supremely soft pure cotton knit and shrimp motif styling. Yet, at the end of the day, it’s a True Flies to its soul. ($59.99) at True Flies, www.trueflies.com.

Chumois Lens Cloth in Pouch with Clip

This go anywhere microfiber cloth tucks inside its own neoprene pouch. ($7.99) at True Flies, www.trueflies.com.

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TrueFlies Visor

When you need maximum face shade combined with the highest-efficiency head-ventilation, this is what you reach for. Pre-washed so it feels familiar and broken-in from the first. Embroidered shrimp logo on the front shows where your loyalties lie. ($22.99) at True Flies, www.trueflies.com.

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Boca Grande wouldn’t be complete without this restaurant serving up local fare of fresh seafood while offering a view into the past. Take a step back in time at the Loose Caboose, one of Boca Grande’s premier restaurants. Owned and op-erated by Jacques and Blanche Boudreau, it offers tourists and residents a taste of the island with a casual atmosphere. Enjoy a great selection of delicious entrees and food choices that are available daily as well as their famous homemade ice cream and key lime pie.

A Taste of the IslandThe Loose Caboose

Written by Jessica Hobbs • Photos by Lynda Venditti

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Everyone in the family will be pleased with the meal op-tions when dining at the Loose Caboose. Begin with one of the starter selections such as Willie’s Wings or Buffalo Blue Cheese Fries. There are a variety of sandwich options that include potato chips and a pickle; choose from a burger, fish sandwich or a BLT. Side items include coleslaw, fries or on-ion rings. Customers can also enjoy a delectable wrap en-trée or fresh salad for those who prefer a lighter meal. The Loose Caboose is known for its Fresh Catch Sandwich and supremely fresh and local grouper when available. Choose from an array of soft drinks, tea, fruit smoothies or enjoy a cold beer on a hot afternoon.

After lunch, don’t forget to get a cone from the ice cream shop. Their ice cream is blended on site by Blanche, Renee and Stephanie and they are constantly creating new flavors at customer requests. Favorite flavors include mint chocolate chip, rum raisin, chocolate cake, mango peach, toasted co-conut and Butterfinger. Ice cream is made using 16% cream, resulting in its rich, creamy taste. The restaurant has outdoor and inside seating available. And bring Fido, the Loose Ca-boose’s outdoor area is dog-friendly.

Located at the corner of 4th Street and Park Avenue, the Loose Caboose is housed inside the historic Boca Grande train depot. The aptly named restaurant showcases pho-tos from the old railroad days. The restaurant itself used to serve as the train station’s waiting room and still fea-tures original woodwork and decorations from the period. A portion of the old railroad can be seen outside next to the building.

Jacques and Blanche have owned the Loose Caboose since 2006. Jacques and Blanche have been working in restaurants on the island for about 17 years and are passionate about their recipes. Jacques began as cook then moved to manag-ing the restaurant, eventually he and Blanche bought it from

the previous owners. Now he can be seen on most days in the kitchen, cooking up delicious, fresh dishes that are served at top speed to hungry customers. While she can be found helping the wait staff and customers, as well as in the ice cre-an shop. Both from Venice, Jacques and Blanche spent many days fishing on Boca Grande while they were dating. It’s only fitting that they now serve the community great food.

Jacques and Blanche also remain involved in the commu-nity they serve. They are foster parents for Labrador Re-triever Rescue of Florida and Abby’s Little Friends Dog Rescue. Blanche is also active with the Wildlife Center of Venice and the restaurant often serves as a call center for wildlife rescues around the island. “We help anything from bats to baby squirrels to eagles and owls and whatever we get called for,” said Blanche. “I was raised on a farm and feel very comfortable around animals. Our personal belief is that we’re all stewards of the earth. We should all do what we can to help improve things.”

The Loose Caboose is located at 433 West 4th Street in Boca Grande. They are open for lunch seven days a week from 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM, and serve dinner from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM during in-season months. For more information, or to view a menu, visit www.loosecaboose.biz or visit them on Facebook.

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Guy Harvey

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Written By Greg Jacoski Director, Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation

This April marks the three year anniversary of the Deep-water Horizon oil spill. Although the disaster is long gone from the headlines, the efforts to understand the impacts of the spill on the marine ecosystem are still just beginning.

Immediately following the spill, Guy Harvey partnered with Aftco Bluewater, the Guy Harvey apparel licensee, to create two custom designed t-shirts in honor of Gulf life. The proceeds from the sale of this shirt were dedi-cated to Gulf fisheries research to try and determine the impact of the oil on the region’s pelagic and reef fish.

In a matter of weeks, Guy Harvey and Aftco sold over 50,000 shirts, raising $500,000 for research on sharks, bluefin tuna and grouper. The Guy Harvey Ocean Foun-dation then sought the top fisheries’ researchers from around the Gulf. After reviewing proposals, grants were issued to marine research organizations at the Univer-sity of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, University of South Florida, Nova Southeastern University, University of Texas – Austin, the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory and Mote Marine Laboratory. Three years and countless research hours later, results are beginning to come in.

Update: Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

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Soon after the spill, casual observers noticed an increase in the number of sharks and other fish in the area offshore of western Florida, away from the spill. One theory behind this was that marine life was migrating away from the impact-ed area to avoid the oil. The early data appears to confirm this as the research points to the fish interaction with the oil being relatively minimal.

Dr. Robert Hueter, director of the Center for Shark Research at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, led a research team conducting one of these studies. Dr. Hueter’s team sampled 27 species of sharks, swordfish and tuna. Early re-sults indicate that swordfish and yellowfin tuna that were sampled exhibited no signs of exces-sive exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocar-bons (PAH), the compound associated with oil contamination. However, comparisons of

sharks from the northeast Gulf of Mexico did show signs of being exposed to higher levels of PAHs than the control group, but it was un-clear if this was from the Deepwater Horizon spill or from more common sources of petro-leum contamination. In general, observations of collected samples show they were relatively disease free with no obvious lesions, growths, discolorations or other visible problems.

One interesting piece of data came from a longfin mako shark that Dr. Hueter and his re-search team fixed with a satellite tracking tag. This was the first time anybody has tracked this species with a satellite tag and over a three month period this remarkable fish moved from the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, around the tip of Florida and up into the waters of the northwest Atlantic. This information is critical in understanding the habitat utilization of this threatened species.

The research being conducted by Dr. Hueter and the other researchers funded by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation is ongoing and the results will continue to come in over the com-ing months and years. Of particular concern is the status of the severely overfished bluefin tuna, whose spawning grounds were directly affected by the spill. Jim Franks, from the Gulf Coast Research Lab, is well into this study and his results are expected soon.

The Deepwater Horizon disaster was unprec-edented in the depth of the spill and the chem-ical dispersants used to mediate the damage so it is not known if or when there will be de-tectible signs of the oil’s impact. It is impor-tant to remember that even though the spill is no longer front page news, the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation and its team of research-ers are still hard at work to determine how the Deepwater Horizon oil spill has impacted the Gulf fishing way of life.

The research being conducted by Dr. Hueter and the other researchers funded by the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation is still ongoing and the results will continue to come in over future months and years

The Deepwater Horizon disaster was unprecedented in the depth of the spill and the chemical dispersants used to mediate the damage so it is not known if or when there will be detectible signs of the oil’s impact.

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On the wild side

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White Pelican

The large white pelican is found be-tween December and March each year in Florida. It spends the winter in Florida and along the Gulf Coast be-fore flying north to nest in the midwest and Canada, giving it its nickname of “snowbird.” It is estimated that over 1,500 white pelicans migrate to this area. White pelicans are very large birds with a wingspan of nine feet and an average weight of 11 – 20 pounds. They have a unique way of catching food: instead of diving for fish, they herd them towards shallower water and scoop them up with their heads and necks. White pelicans nest in colo-nies of several hundred pairs and breed during March and April. A wild white pelican may live for more than 16 years.

Written by Jessica HobbsPhoto by Jean Schuster

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mojito

It’s five o’clock somewhere...

Brought to you by B&T Liquors

1.25 oz spiced or light rum

12 mint leaves

1 Tbsp sugar

1 lime

2 oz soda

Place mint leaves in bottom of glass with sugar and gen-tly muddle. Squeeze the lime into the glass. Add crushed ice and rum, then mix. Add soda water and garnish with mint leaves and lime slices and enjoy!

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Advertising

ROI Media(941) 257-43522500 Bobcat VillageCenter Road, Suite GNorth Port, FL 34288www.roimedia.us

Animal Rescue/Shelter

Suncoast Humane Society(941) 474-78846781 San Casa DriveEnglewood, FL 34224www.humane.org

Apparel & Gifts

Boca Grande Outfitters, Inc.(941) 964-2445375 Park AvenueBoca Grande, FL 33921www.bocagrandeoutfitters.com

Beds

Bed Masters(941) 766-91224105 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, FL 33952www.bedmasters.com

Blinds

Creative Window Treatments(941) 828-00004880 Placida RoadEnglewood, FL 34224www.mycreativewindow.com

Boating

Beach Road Watersports(941) 475-90991350 Beach RoadEnglewood, FL 34223www.beachroadwatersports.net

Cavana Classic Charters(941) 875-4946PO Box 357Boca Grande, FL 33921www.cavanacharters.com

King Fisher Fleet(941) 639-09691200 W Retta EsplanadePunta Gorda, FL 33950www.kingfisherfleet.com

Construction

EOK Construction(863) 385-8649

Truex Preferred Construction(941) 475-6680579 S. Indiana Avenue, Suite AEnglewood, FL 34223www.truexpreferredconstruction.com

Financial Planning

MetLife(941) 961-61061819 Main Street, Suite 1300Sarasota, FL 34236

Flooring

Friendly Floors(941) 624-00773785 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, FL 33952www.friendlyfloors.com

Golf Carts

Caddy Carts(941) 474-474712691 Tamiami TrailPort Charlotte, Fl 34287www.caddy-carts.com

Hair Salon & Spa

Kyle Kurtis Salon & Spa(941) 830-834413435 S. McCall RdPort Charlotte, FL 33981www.kyle-kurtis.com

Home Care

Granny Nannies Home Care(941) 743-76064055 Tamiami Trail, Suite 10Port Charlotte, FL 33952www.grannynannies.com

Home Inspection

Second Opinion Home Inspection(800) 940-7114www.secondopinionhomeinspection.com

Interior Decorations

Z Interior Decorations(941) 575-9891www.zinteriordecorations.com

Jeweler

Cruisin Coastlines(941) 780-5786 www. cruisincoastlines.com

Liquors

BnT Liquors and Fine Wines(941) 698-10118725 Placida RoadPlacida, FL 33946

Medical

RTR Urology(941) 485-3351 (24hr)842 Sunset Lake Blvd.Suite 403Venice, FL 34292

Museums

Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum(941) 964-0060Barrier Island Parks Society880 Belcher RoadBoca Grande, FL 33921www.barrierislandparkssociety.org

Photography

Apple Video & Photography(941) 426-0093www.applevp.com

Photographic Images(941) 475-51487233 Summer StreetEnglewood, FL 34224www.heidemariephoto.com

Printing

ROI Media(941) 257-43522500 Bobcat VillageCenter Road, Suite GNorth Port, FL 34288www.roimedia.us

Real Estate

Michael Saunders & CompanyKevin HydeOffice: (941) 964-2000Direct: (941) 628-4730420 E Railroad Ave Boca Grande, FL 33921www.bocagrandelistings.com

Restaurants & Hotels

Fishermen’s Village Mall, Resort & Marina(941) 639-87211200 W. Retta EsplanadePunta Gorda, FL 33950www.fishville.com

Fishery Restaurant(941) 697-245113000 Fishery RoadPlacida, FL 33946

Gasparilla Marina & Waterside Grill(941) 697-228015001 Gasparilla RoadPlacida, FL 33946

Loose Caboose(941) 964-0440433 W. Fourth StreetBoca Grande, FL 33921www.loosecaboose.biz

Zydeco Grille(941) 828-14728501 Placida RoadCape Haze, FLwww.zydecogrille.com

Roofing

Galloway Roofing(941) 697-3737www.gallowayroofing.com

Security

Security Alarm Corporation(941) 625-970017776 Toledo Blade Blvd.Port Charlotte, FL 33948www.securityalarmcorp.com

Tours

Grande Tours(941) 697-882512575 Placida RoadPlacida, FL 33946www.grandetours.com

Travel Agency

Boca Grande Travel(941) 964-02005800 Gasparilla RoadBoca Grande, FL 33921www.bocagrandetravel.com

Business Directory

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In Our Next Issue...

• Florida’s First People

• Pirates of Southwest Florida

• Viva Florida Celebrations

• History of Boca Grande

• 100 Year Celebrations

• Civil War Reflections

• And More

A Rich History

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