Monday, August 16, 2010

KEY WEST

Pilot rescued from Gulf of Mexico

A pilot who crashed his Cessna into the Gulf of Mexico 40 miles north of Key West Saturday night was plucked from the water four hours after the 9 p.m. crash, according to a Coast Guard press release.

The man was flying solo from Bartow to Key West, but no more information about his identity or medical condition was given.

"We initially heard his voice calling for help, and then saw him in our searchlights," the release quotes Thomas Jefferson Cmdr. Shepard M. Smith as saying. "We are very pleased to have been able to help avert a real tragedy."

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's research vessel crew found the man after the Coast Guard issued crash alerts about the Cessna 172 Skyhawk.

FLORIDA KEYS

Poker Run registration is now open

Bikers can register online for the 38th annual Key West Poker Run, set for Sept. 16-19.

Register now at http://www.petersonsharley.com, or at Peterson's Harley-Davidson's two Miami locations after Sept. 1.

Upon registering and making a $10 donation, each participant will receive a poker sheet -- additional "poker hands" are available for $10 apiece -- and a weekend parking pass.

Entrants who draw the 10 best poker hands are eligible to play in a winner-take-all round of Texas Hold 'Em.

Part of Duval Street will be closed to car traffic during much of the Poker Run so bikers can park and display their bikes there.

As many as 10,000 bikes are expected to traverse the 113-mile Overseas Highway to Key West. Drivers of cars and trucks also can participate in the run.

TAVERNIER

Train for foster parenting

Wesley House Family Services will host a PRIDE Certification Course for people who want to provide foster homes for children in need, either on a temporary or permanent basis.

The class will be from 6 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday from Sept. 7 until Nov. 9 at the Wesley House offices at 175 Wrenn St.

Foster families are required to take the class, as well as submit to a background check and character screening.

To register or get more information about fostering, contact Molly McAteer at 305-289-2677.