Sunday, May 26, 2013

MONROE COUNTY

Amberjack fishery update

The recreational harvest of greater amberjack in Gulf of Mexico state and federal waters closes June 1.

Greater amberjack will reopen for harvest in Gulf of Mexico state and federal waters on Aug. 1, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

State waters in the Atlantic Ocean extend from shore to 3 nautical miles and 9 miles in the Gulf.

Seasonal harvest closures protect Florida's valuable greater amberjack populations and help sustain and improve the fishery for the future, according to FWC.

MIAMI

7 Cubans are returned

The Coast Guard on Wednesday returned seven Cuban migrants to their island nation at Bahia de Cabañas.

They were stopped at sea May 18 after a good Samaritan reported that a rustic boat was taking on water east of Card Sound.

Coast Guard Air Station Miami launched an MH-65 Dolphin helicopter and Coast Guard Station Islamorada launched a boatcrew in response. The boatcrew arrived and rescued the seven from the sinking vessel.

Once aboard a Coast Guard cutter, all migrants receive food, water, shelter and basic medical attention.

MARATHON

Spend Thursday evening with stars

An "Evening With the Stars" will be held 7:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday at Crane Point, 5550 Overseas Highway.

Elizabeth Moore, NASA Solar System Educator volunteer, will make a short presentation with hands-on activities, followed by a star hike and a telescope viewing session at the Crane House. It's $6 per person, with children under 6 free.

Dress for summer weather and bring binoculars and a flashlight if possible. Closed-toe shoes are preferred. Check the Crane Point Facebook page if the weather is bad.

The group will meet at the steps of the museum. No reservations required.

For more information, call Moore at 305-743-8889 or email seascience@bellsouth.net. For more information about Crane Point, call 305-743-3900 or email Loretta@cranepoint.net.