Sunday, June 24, 2012

KEY WEST

Anti-bullying program

The Monique Burr Foundation will explain its new anti-bullying curriculum, recently adopted by the Monroe County School District for first through fifth grades, at a meeting from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the Metropolitan Community Church (MCC), 1215 Petronia St.

The event is sponsored by Monroe County State Attorney Dennis Ward, Monroe County Schools Superintendent Jesus Jara, and Department of Education Commissioner and former Superintendant John Padget.

Bullying in middle and high schools also will be discussed.

FLORIDA KEYS

Watch out for gators and crocs

As the weather heats up, so too do the activities of alligators and crocodiles. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds everyone to be careful in and around water.

The state hosts two native crocodilians: the American alligator, found in all 67 counties; and the American crocodile, sometimes found in coastal areas of the Keys and in southeast and southwest Florida. Both species have shared Florida's waters with people for centuries. FWC recommends keeping pets away from the water.

Other safety measures are listed in the "Living with Alligators" brochure at MyFWC.com/Alligator, and the "Living with Crocodiles" brochure at MyFWC.com/Crocodile. The FWC's Nuisance Alligator Hotline is 866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286).

STOCK ISLAND

Animal Farm open today

The Sheriff's Animal Farm will be open from 1 to 3 p.m. today. Bring the family to visit the animals there, which include horses, a cow, pigs, goats, bunnies, alligators, tropical birds, a Kinkajou, sloths, a lemur, Kramer the Emu, a family of Patagonian cavies, tortoises and turtles, snakes and many more.

It is free of charge, though donations are welcome to help with upkeep.

The farm is just off College Road, on Stock Island, under the Sheriff's Office Headquarters complex. Groups may schedule special tours at the farm by calling Farmer Jeanne Selander at 305-293-7300.