UPDATES

FCD

UPDATES &

BOATING NEWS
JUL

2010

.............Watch for updates on or about the first of each month............

CURRENT EDITION

JULY 2010

HAVE A SAFE & HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY ... CATCH THE FIREWORKS FROM THE BOAT — OR THE BACK YARD!

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2010/11 - 28th - edition of the FCD is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it and you think they SHOULD, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-10-3 ... the cover photo this time is a beautiful Sandestin Sunset!

See following note about out FCD Summertime Sale ...

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs. And, here's news about ...

SUMMERTIME SAVINGS!

We've noticed a lot of "sales" these days, so, not to be outdone ... WE'RE PICKING UP SHIPPING CHARGES ON ALL FLORIDA CRUISING DIRECTORIES ORDERED ON THIS SITE FROM NOW THROUGH AUGUST!

Books will be shipped "Media Rate" and you pay only the cover price of $16. per book (+ Florida Sales Tax, if applicable). Other items (up to two) included in your order will ride along "free." Maximum for the free shipping is three items. This is a good time to pick up an extra gift book for a friend's birthday, whatever ...

_______

NOTE TO BOATING INDUSTRY re: WEB UPDATE NEWS

As always, your news items are welcome for our monthly web site updates, on or about the first. We need the information by about the end of the third week each month. There has been one change ... we no longer send out post card notices re: included news but try to advise new contributors by e-mail. Please visit every month ... even if your news is not in, you'll find other interesting information!

________

BAKER'S HAULOVER FURTHER CAUTIONS ADVISED

As mentioned on page 79 in the current FCD, our editors have pointed out current LNM's mention of increasing shoaling problems, center channel, in the area between makers 6A and 11 in the Haulover ICW Channel. The area is shown on Chart 11, page 73. Captain John Yeager repeats: "Be sure to ' ... favor the green temporary buoys!!!' "
________

TAMPA WELCOMES TALL SHIPS with FIVE DAY FESTIVAL TO CELEBRATE TAMPA BAY'S RICH MARITIME HISTORY.

On Saturday, July 10, catch the spectacular Parade of Sail as the three ships enter Tampa Bay. They are Eagle, the Coast Guard's Three-Masted Barque, Capitan Miranda, Uruguay's Staysail Schooner and Gloria, Colombia's Three-Masted Barque.

The ships will be open for tours at their docks at Channelside and the Convention Center from 2 PM - 9 PM on Saturday and additional tours are scheduled for the following four days. Besides the tours there will be live music and food for sale ... lunch, brunch and dinner cruises on Starship Dining Cruises and lots more to see and do!

All is under the sponsorship of the Sail Tampa Bay 2010 Committee and Tampa's Convention and Visitors Bureau.

See all the details at www.sailtampabay2010.com.

_______

BAHAMAS NEWS

BIMINI BIG GAME CLUB OPEN AGAIN!

As we go to e-press, we've been advised that the Bimini Big Game Club is once again open with a similar and slightly longer new name: Bimini Big Game Club Guy Harvey Outpost Resort will be open with hotel rooms, restaurant and marina by this 4th of July weekend. The new phone number is 242-347-3391.

DUTY ON PARTS NO LONGER IN EFFECT

We are a bit late with this "news," but we're happy to report that there is no longer any duty charged on parts shipped to vessels temporarily cruising in the Bahamas!

In a June phone conversation with Mr. Whyms at the Department of Customs in Nassau, he advised that the law had been amended late in '09 and there is no longer any duty. (We'd been advised that a change was in the works, but did not know that it was official by year's end!)

You may want to make a note of that on page 18 in your current book. Contacts for the Department are the same.
_______

BOATING FLINGS UNDER WAY - REPEATING HERE FOR JULY AND AUGUST ...

From the Bahamas web site, this quote tells a lot about the annual boating flings ...

... a lead boat and captain pilot the way for a caravan of pleasure boaters on a journey across the Gulf Stream to our beautiful islands. After the simple crossing, you can relax on our white power beaches or enjoy an itinerary filled with exciting activities and still have enough time to snorkel, scuba dive, fish and stock up on Bahamian bread. (— from www.bahamas.com)

JULY
7 - 11 Port Lucaya Marina, Grand Bahama
14 - 25 Abaco/Grand Bahama (extended)

JULY - AUGUST
28 - 8 Bimini/Club Cay/Nassau/Cape Eleuthera (extended)

For more information Call 1-800-32SPORT or visit /www.bahamas.combahamas/boating-fling-schedule-2010.
______

ATLANTIS has ANOTHER SPECIAL ... three nights from $299, plus "kids stay free." Book by July 4!

The resort is also presenting Fantasy Camps for Kids & Teens this Summer!

Different age groups can take part in scheduled camps dealing with Marine Adventures, Golf, Culinary Skills ... even Lego Building and Cheerleading ... and more. It looks like a great way for kids to learn and have fun as part of the family's vacation at Atlantis.

Visit atlantis.com (or call 888-208-6872) and check it all out --- the Marina (if you're cruising over this time), Kids Activities and Summertime specials.

______

(Repeating as in June ... This project may continue through December, 2010.)

NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS
CESAJ-CO-OM 91130)
19 May, 2010

Maintenance Dredging, Canaveral Harbor, FL

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigation Canaveral Harbor Entrance Channel, Trident Turning Basin and Trident Access Channel. The work is located in the Canaveral Harbor in Indian River County, FL, by the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

2. Specific information about the project: The eastern limit is Canaveral Harbor Entrance Channel Cut 1. The western limit is Cut 2, between the Trident Turning Basin and Middle Turning Basin. Dredging will also be performed at Trident Turning Basin and Trident Access Channel. Up to 860,000 CY may be dredged. Placement of dredged material will occur at Canaveral Harbor Offshore Dredged Material Disposal Site. Dredging will be performed using mechanical dredge, which pumps material into a barge and then disposed into designated disposal location. Dredging related activities may occur between May 2010 - December 2010.

3. GENERIC CAUTION TO MARINERS: Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. The Project Description and Details may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District Advertised Solicitation website: specific link that directs to the particular project. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is C. Joy Spencer (Ops Manager) 904-232-2978 or alternate Sirisha Rayaprolu 904-232-3455.

FOR THE COMMANDER

(signature) W. C . Zattan

for Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division
______

EXCERPT from NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS
CESAJ-CO-OM 91130)
21 June, 2010

ICW, Canaveral Harbor, FL

Canaveral Lock Closure POSTPONED

A previously announced closure to install a new Manatee Protection System issued in March and tentatively scheduled to take place during August, September and October has been cancelled. A new closure period is excepted in January - March, 2011, and will be announced later.

FOR THE COMMANDER

Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division
_______

Marine Industries Association of South Florida has announced
FORT LAUDERDALE BRIDGE PAINTING UNDER WAY

Painting has begun on the East Sunrise Blvd. Bridge across the ICW at mile 1062.6, Fort Lauderdale, causing the bridge to be on single-leaf operations on the hour and half-hour from 6 AM to 12 midnight, Mondays through Fridays. A double-leaf opening will be available with at least three hours notice by phone to Gemstone LLC (the painting company) in the following order: Randy Chambers, 305-797-0904; John Woodberry, 305-747-0301 or Rick Doyle, 305-797-1051.

If you prefer to e-mail the company you can visit their site (www.gemstonellc.com) and use the "contact" or send to vharmony@gemstonellc.com. The horizontal clearance will be reduced to 45 feet due to the scaffolding.

The bridge will be on single-leaf operations only from 12 midnight through 6 AM, Tuesdays through Fridays. At all other times, the bridge will open both leaves on the hour and half-hour.

This work is expected to continue through August 30, 2010.

OTHER SCHEDULED REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES include the following ...

Starting with this update, the USCG's Miami Bridge office will be advising us of scheduled changes for our monthly updates. We've requested similar information from District 8's USCG for the Panhandle from St. Mark's to Alabama. Our plan is to list only major projects where significant delays are anticipated. Current new information follows:

BOOT KEY BRIDGE, Marathon. Demolition, begun in June, will require two months to complete.

ATLANTIC ICW -

TOLOMATO RIVER TO PALM SHORES — A. MAX BREWER BRIDGE, Mile 878.9, Titusville. Being replaced with a high-level fixed bridge. This work will continue through April 2011. From July 20 through July 22, 2010, the contractor has been authorized to close the waterway due to the placement of the center channel beams. In case of weather delay, an additional day may be needed. Min. vertical clearance will be 65 feet, MHW. Clearance gauges for the new high-level fixed bridge will not be placed until the old swing bridge is removed. The following temporary scheduled operation will be authorized beginning on July 6, 2010: The A. Max Brewer Bridge will be allowed to open on hour and half-hour from 7 AM to 7 PM, seven days a week. Mariners wishing to comment on this temporary change may e-mail michael.b.lieberum@uscg.mil.

WEST PALM BEACH TO MIAMI — PARKER BRIDGE, US 1, Mile 1013.7. Palm Beach. Half-hour single-leaf operations scheduled. A double-leaf opening may be available with four-hour notice to bridge tender. Vertical clearance will be diminished by 2-feet due to scaffolding. No openings on July 8 and July 29 from 10AM - 6PM. Work is scheduled to be completed by October 31, 2010.
________

5TH STREET MARINA EXPANDS ON THE MIAMI RIVER
NORSEMAN BOAT YARD, LANGER/KRELL ELECTRONICS and SOUTH SHORE MARINE DIESEL ON SITE

The renovated 5th Street Marina has expanded and now includes six deepwater berths for yachts or commercial vessels of 100 ft. plus. At the new facility, captains can choose to obtain shipside services themselves or procure services from contractors already operating at the marina. Dockage and services are available for boats in the 30 - 90' range, per GM Orin Black. The proximity to "downtown" provides captains and crews with access to new restaurants and night spots and boats with a safe, inland location. Visit www.5thstmarina.com for more. Phone is 305 324-2040.
_______

FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings, Rule Changes
SWORDFISH / WEAKFISH / APALACHICOLA OYSTERS / STONE CRAB / BONEFISH / RED SNAPPER

FWC has approved draft rule amendments to make recreational swordfish regulations in state waters consistent with federal South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico waters regs. The rules will increase the limit for recreational vessels from three to four per vessel, create a charter boat limit of six and a special headboat vessel limit of 15, retaining the individual daily bag limit of one per person except for captain and crew of for-hire vessels and remove the 33-lb. minimum weight requirement. More on- line at MyFWC.com/Commission, linked from June 23-24 meeting agenda. Rules are expected to take effect in early August.
______

The FWC is applying new weakfish management rules only in designated state waters of Nassau County in Northeast Florida. In all other areas of Florida the size limit, recreational bag limit and commercial trip limit will no longer apply. For more on the new weakfish rules, including a map of the management area, visit MyFWC.com/Commission linked from June 23-24 meeting agenda. New rules are expected to take effect sometime in July.
______

The state of Florida has announced extra harvesting for Apalachicola oysters through August. Saturdays will now be included for a six-day harvesting week.
______

The season for all harvest, possession and sale of stone crab claws in Florida closed on May 16 but reopens on October 15. Any stone crab claws may be possessed and sold during the closed season only if they have been placed in inventory prior to May 16 by a licensed wholesale or retail dealer.
______

As of July 1, a new rule applies to Bonefish. A daily recreational bag limit of one bonefish 18" or greater in fork length will apply and they may be taken by hook and line only.
______

Red Snapper recreational harvest season opened in Gulf federal waters June 1 and goes through July 23.
______

Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure.
______

A new Lemon Sharks rule is in effect: the recreational and commercial harvest is prohibited in Florida waters. The harvest of lemon sharks is still allowed in offshore federal waters adjacent to state waters.

More information on all of this at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS. Click on "Fishing-Saltwater."
_______

NEW BOATING RULES APPROVED

FWC approved changes to two boating rules at late June meeting.

The first creates standards by which it will review and approve local government ordinances related to boating-restricted areas which ensures that the public has an adequate opportunity to weigh in before ordinances take effect.

The second pertains to waterway markers. The revised rule clarifies the information that needs to be submitted to obtain permits and spells out any exemptions to permitting.

Last year's Florida Legislature's law required FWC to establish the criteria and procedures for reviewing applications from local govenrments and to provide for appropriate public notice and participation in the review and approval process. This latest action is aimed at completing that mandate. Visit MyFWC.com for more info.___

... AND, Summer Camp at The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Ocala Conservation Center runs through July. Late registrations may be accommodated.

FWC has announced the Ocala Outdoor Adventure Camp for boys and girls ages 9 - 15. This year there will be six one-week sessions beginning June 20.

The primary goal is to help children become good, conservation-minded sportsmen and wildlife stewards and they learn
fishing, canoeing, swimming, hiking, archery and many other outdoor activities including hunter and gun safety and advanced outdoor skills.

Tuition of $295 per camper per week includes lodging, food, program materials and instruction for each session. The camp is based in Marion County on Lake Eaton, 20 miles east of Ocala.

Call 352-625-2804 or visit www.OcalaAdventureCamp.com.
_______

FWC BOAT RAMP UPDATES

FWC's anticipated complete BOAT RAMP lists have not yet been included on their web site. We mentioned in the current FCD that the complete update was "on hold" and would be available there at some point.

When we checked on it recently we were advised that it has encountered delays and It will not be done any time soon because of their full attention (and web site space) being taken up by the oil spill.

We'll be watching for their Press Release and advise as soon as we can.
_______

OIL SPILL NEWS

The state of Florida has closed a portion of coastal state waters to the harvest of saltwater fish, crabs and shrimp. Oysters, clams and mussels are not included in the closures because they are not expected to be affected by oil in the area. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services carefully monitors populations of these shellfish.

The closure area in Escambia County covers approximately 23 miles of Florida's coastline — including state waters from the beaches out 9 nautical miles into the Gulf from the Alabama line east to the Pensacola Beach water tower.

The FWC encourages residents and visitors to go fishing in Florida and to enjoy fresh Florida seafood!

_______

NEW BUSINESS IN CARRABELLE

FORMER ALLEN'S DOCKSIDE UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP

MS DOCKSIDE is the new name for the former Allen's Dockside Marine in Carrabelle. The yard is now under the direction of Eric Pfeufer — with a new phone number — 850-697-2660. Please make the correction on Chart 22, page 135, in your current FCD.

______

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

LAGOON DISCOVERY TRIPS

Lagoon Discovery Trips on the Indian River and its tributaries are offered by the ELC. Two and one-half to three hour guided trips by canoe or kayak are scheduled from sunrise to sunset for a number of days over the next several weeks. Costs for adults are $15-$35, $7 for children. Minimum age is 8 for the kayak excursions and 10 for the canoe excursions.

NEW ADVENTURES and SCHOLARSHIPS ANNOUNCED

Outdoor Ecology Adventures — Wild Waters (for students entering 8th - 12th grades), Marine Safari ( for students entering 6th & 7th grades) and Island Adventure for students entering 4th and 5th grades) will be started in June.

Visit the web site: www.DiscoverELC.org or call: 772-589-5050 for schedules and costs.

(Some scholarships will be available for children enrolled in or qualifying for the Indian River County School District's free or reduced lunch program. Contact Rosemary Badger, Naturalist at Rosemary@elc.org on the scholarships or phone her at the number above.)

_______

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS

Indian River Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Fest is scheduled for July 24 & 25 at the Indian River Fairgrounds, 7955 58th Ave., Vero Beach from 9 to 6 each day. Phone is 954 205-7813; web site is www.flnauticalfleamarket.com.

If you have a boat to sell and would like to include it in the flea market contact the web site where you can arrange for that. Space for your boat will be $25 and will include 2 Free Tickets to the Festival.

Looking ahead ...

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival is scheduled for September 17 - 19 at Martin County Fairgrounds in Stuart. Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info or call 954 205-7813.

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM

The not-for-profit museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.
______

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS CHARTER "STIMULUS" PROGRAM GOES THROUGH OCTOBER.

As part of their Silver Anniversary celebration promotions, the North Fort Myers-based company has announced a "Three Day Bail Out" with an extra day free on every sail and power-yacht charter of two days through October. Available sailing yachts are from 29' to 42' and power yachts from 28 to 43'.

Visit Southwest Florida Yachts and Florida Sailing & Cruising School at www.flsailandcruiseschool.com, www.swfyachtsales.com or phone 800-262-7939. The company's fleets are in North Fort Myers and at Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda.
_______

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen’s Village - celebrating 30 Years in 2010! - is the Punta Gorda marina with shopping mall, restaurants and villas for rent. It's located off Marion Ave. at 1200 West Retta Esplanade. Mall is open seven days a week; phone 1-800-639-0020 or 941-639-8721 for more information or visit www.fishville.com.

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.
( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT usually on Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Day Event

1 Muttini Mingle, The Floating "Yappy Hour" 5:30-8 pm. Social time for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws 575-7599 for more information. Live Music by Reconnections Band.

2 The Yard Dogs perform Florida Cajun Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

Pre-Independence Day Party at Harpoon Harry's! Family Night 6-9 pm. Kids meals $3.99 comes with 16 game tokens. Call 637-1177 for more details.

3 Harpoon Harry's Annual Bike Run to benefit the Smuggler's Foundation. Live music, buffet, Mrs. Hogg Heaven contest. Call 637-1177 for more information.

Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption 1-3 pm in front of Salty Paws.

Singer/Guitarist Michael Hirst, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

4 Fishermen's Village Fourth of July Celebration. Free admission. Day begins at 9 am with annual freedom swim across Charlotte Harbor. Live music featuring "Cheeky Monkey" & "Sounds of the Virgin Islands Band" begins at 12 Noon and continues until 9 pm! Fun and games throughout the Village for kids! Viewing of Fireworks display over Charlotte Harbor begins at 9 pm. Call 639-8721 for more information.

Harpoon Harry's annual July 4th Celebration. Freedom Swim, Mr. and Mrs. Smuggler's Bathing Suit contest, American History Trivia, Hourly Raffles, Bikini Contest, Live Music. Call 637-1177 for more information.

5

6

7 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

8

9 Punta Gorda's own Jim Morris performs Trop Rock Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

10 Reconnections Band performs oldies, variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

11

12 Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

13

14 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

15

16 Father/Daughter Duo "Magen & Mike" perform variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

17 "Beans & Seeds" perform their eclectic blend of music 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

18

19

20

21 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

22

23 Reconnections Band performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage

24 Singer/Piano player Pat Walsh performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage

25

26

27

28 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

29

30 Singer/Piano player Pat Walsh performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage

31 "Destined" performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.
_______

The USCG’s Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don’t forget to glance back over previous months’ updates every-now-and-then to see if there’s anything still ongoing that you’ve missed ...

Jun 2010

WEB UPDATE / JUNE 2010

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2010/11 - 28th - edition of the FCD is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it and you think they SHOULD, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-10-3 ... the cover photo this time is a beautiful Sandestin Sunset!

See following note about out FCD Summertime Sale ...

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs. And, here's news about ...

SUMMERTIME SAVINGS!

We've noticed a lot of "sales" these days, so, not to be outdone ... WE'RE PICKING UP SHIPPING CHARGES ON ALL FLORIDA CRUISING DIRECTORIES ORDERED ON THIS SITE FROM NOW THROUGH AUGUST!

Books will be shipped "Media Rate" and you pay only the cover price of $16. per book (+ Florida Sales Tax, if applicable). Other items (up to two) included in your order will ride along "free." Maximum for the free shipping is three items. This is a good time to pick up an extra gift book for Father's Day, birthdays, whatever ...
_____

NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

CESAJ-CO-OM 91130)

19 May, 2010

Maintenance Dredging, Canaveral Harbor, FL

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigation Canaveral Harbor Entrance Channel, Trident Turning Basin and Trident Access Channel. The work is located in the Canaveral Harbor in Indian River County, FL, by the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station.

2. Specific information about the project: The eastern limit is Canaveral Harbor Entrance Channel Cut 1. The western limit is Cut 2, between the Trident Turning Basin and Middle Turning Basin. Dredging will also be performed at Trident Turning Basin and Trident Access Channel. Up to 860,000 CY may be dredged. Placement of dredged material will occur at Canaveral Harbor Offshore Dredged Material Disposal Site. Dredging will be performed using mechanical dredge, which pumps material into a barge and then disposed into designated disposal location. Dredging related activities may occur between May 2010 - December 2010.

3. GENERIC CAUTION TO MARINERS: Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. The Project Description and Details may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District Advertised Solicitation website: specific link that directs to the particular project. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is C. Joy Spencer (Ops Manager) 904-232-2978 or alternate Sirisha Rayaprolu 904-232-3455.

FOR THE COMMANDER

(signature) W. C . Zattan

for Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.

Chief, Operations Division
_______

NEWS from BoatUS — May 13, 2010

NATIONAL MARINA DAY — JUNE 12

The annual Marina Day this year is being promoted as Boat. Fish. Live. At National Marina Day. Formerly held in August, the day to celebrate marinas as the family-friendly gateways to the water has been changed to the second Saturday in June.

Special events are expected to take place in marinas across the country and Florida's own Bill Bird Marina at Haulover Park has been named Marina of the Year 2010.

We checked with the folks in Miami and found that they're planning to dedicate the new Bill Bird Dockmaster Building and food, drinks and entertainment will available from 10 AM 'til 4 PM. There will be fishing demos, a kite festival and balloon art, diving & snorkeling, Chinese dragon boat and dancers, kids zone, nautical and miscellaneous vendors ... and much more ... all under the direction of Kathy Haley and Mike Dmytriw. The Haulover Marina is one of Miami-Dade Parks' six full-service marinas.

If you can't make it to the Marina of the Year, be sure to check with your marina to see if any special events are planned for National Marina Day — and enjoy the day!

_______

Marine Industries Association of South Florida has announced

FORT LAUDERDALE BRIDGE PAINTING SCHEDULED

Painting scheduled for the East Sunrise Blvd. Bridge across the ICW at mile 1062.6, Fort Lauderdale, will cause the bridge to be on single-leaf operations on the hour and half-hour from 6 AM to 12 midnight, Mondays through Fridays starting June 1. A double-leaf opening will be available with at least three hours notice by phone to Gemstone LLC (the painting company) in the following order: Randy Chambers, 305-797-0904; John Woodberry, 305-747-0301 or Rick Doyle, 305-797-1051.

If you prefer to e-mail the company you can visit their site (www.gemstonellc.com) and use the "contact" or send to vharmony@gemstonellc.com. The horizontal clearance will be reduced to 45 feet due to the scaffolding.

The bridge will be on single-leaf operations only from 12 midnight through 6 AM, Tuesdays through Fridays. At all other times, the bridge will open both leaves on the hour and half-hour.

This work is expected to continue through August 30, 2010.

NEW BRIDGE in ST. AUGUSTINE

The Captains Yeager (our editor, Capt. John Yeager and his son, Capt. John Yeager, Jr.) have advised that the restoration of the historical Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine is complete. It has exactly the same closed clearance as before ... 25'; open clearance is 65'. We checked on rumors of a clearance change with the folks at St. Augustine Municipal Marina and were told that it is exactly the same. A brand new sixty-five foot fixed bridge would have taken up far too much room in the beautiful Old City to have been possible, or palatable!

_______

FATHER'S DAY IDEA

Get Dad a 5-year freshwater fishing license or give him an opportunity to catch a Florida bass worth a million dollars! The license costs $79. Check it out MyFWC.com/License or call 888-347-4356; visit BountyFishing.com for more on fishing contests!

________

BAHAMAS NEWS

BOATING FLINGS SCHEDULE

From the Bahamas web site, this quote tells a lot about the annual boating flings ...

... a lead boat and captain pilot the way for a caravan of pleasure boaters on a journey across the Gulf Stream to our beautiful islands. After the simple crossing, you can relax on our white power beaches or enjoy an itinerary filled with exciting activities and still have enough time to snorkel, scuba dive, fish and stock up on Bahamian bread. (— from www.bahamas.com)

JUNE

2 - 8 Brown's Marina, Bimini

16 - 20 Port Lucaya Marina, Grand Bahama

23 - 27 Bimini Bay Resort & Marina, Bimini

JULY

7 - 11 Port Lucaya Marina, Grand Bahama

14 - 25 Abaco/Grand Bahama (extended)

JULY - AUGUST

28 - 8 Bimini/Club Cay/Nassau/Cape Eleuthera (extended)

For more information Call 1-800-32SPORT or visit www.bahamas.com/bahamas/boting-fling-schedule-2010.

_______

Atlantis has a special 4th Night Free with Free Companion Airfare through June 20. Save on other "special experiences for two ..." Book by June 4!

The resort is also presenting Fantasy Camps for Kids & Teens this Summer!

Different age groups can take part in scheduled camps dealing with Marine Adventures, Golf, Culinary Skills ... even Lego Building and Cheerleading ... and more. It looks like a great way for kids to learn and have fun as part of the family's vacation at Atlantis.

Visit atlantis.com (or call 888-208-6872) and check it all out --- the Marina (if you're cruising over this time), Kids Activities and Summertime specials.

_______

Abaco Beach Resort has the following Fishing Tournaments scheduled for June:

Abaco Beach Resort leg of the BBC - June 9 - 12

and the

Penny Turtle Invitational - June 15 - 19.

E-mail abacobeachresort@gmail.com or visit www.AbacoBeachResort.com.

_______

FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings

STONE CRAB / BONEFISH / RED SNAPPER

The season for all harvest, possession and sale of stone crab claws in Florida closed on May 16 but reopens on October 15. Any stone crab claws may be possessed and sold during the closed season only if they have been placed in inventory prior to May 16 by a licensed wholesale or retail dealer.

As of July 1, a new rule applies to Bonefish. A daily recreational bag limit of one bonefish 18" or greater in fork length will apply and they may be taken by hook and line only.

Red Snapper recreational harvest season opens in Gulf federal waters June 1 and goes through July 23.

_______

Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure.

_______

A new Lemon Sharks rule is in effect: the recreational and commercial harvest is prohibited in Florida waters. The harvest of lemon sharks is still allowed in offshore federal waters adjacent to state waters.

More information on this at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS.

_______

Visit www.myFWC.com/Rules and click on "Fishing-Saltwater" for more information on all of the above.

AND Speaking of Fishing, Florida's Governor, Charlie Crist, has announced two free fishing weekends - no license required - to help draw visitors to the Sunshine State. Both residents and nonresidents in Florida can fish for saltwater species around the state during Memorial Day weekend (May 29 - 31) and the weekend of June 5 and 6.

_______

... AND, There's Still Time to Register for Summer Camp at The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Ocala Conservation Center!

FWC has announced that its time to sign the kids up for the Ocala Outdoor Adventure Camp for boys and girls ages 9 - 15. This year there will be six one-week sessions beginning June 20.

The primary goal is to help children become good, conservation-minded sportsmen and wildlife stewards and they learn
fishing, canoeing, swimming, hiking, archery and many other outdoor activities including hunter and gun safety and advanced outdoor skills.

Tuition of $295 per camper per week includes lodging, food, program materials and instruction for each session. The camp is based in Marion County on Lake Eaton, 20 miles east of Ocala.

Call 352-625-2804 or visit www.OcalaAdventureCamp.com.

________

NEW ADVENTURES and SCHOLARSHIPS ANNOUNCED

Outdoor Ecology Adventures — Wild Waters (for students entering 8th - 12th grades), Marine Safari ( for students entering 6th & 7th grades) and Island Adventure for students entering 4th and 5th grades) will be starting in June.

Visit the web site: www.DiscoverELC.org or call: 772-589-5050 for schedules and costs.

(Some scholarships will be available for children enrolled in or qualifying for the Indian River County School District's free or reduced lunch program. Contact Rosemary Badger, Naturalist at Rosemary@elc.org on the scholarships or phone her at the number above.)

________

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS

Indian River Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Fest is scheduled for July 24 & 25 at the Indian River Fairgrounds in Vero Beach from 9 to 6 each day. Phone is 954 205-7813; web site is www.flnauticalfleamarket.com.

If you have a boat to sell and would like to include it in the flea market contact the web site where you can arrange for that. Space for your boat will be $25 and will include 2 Free Tickets to the Festival.

Looking ahead ...

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival is scheduled for September 17 - 19 at Martin County Fairgrounds in Stuart. Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info or call 954 205-7813.

History of Diving Museum

The not-for-profit museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

_______

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS ANNOUNCES YACHT CHARTER "STIMULUS" PROGRAM

As part of their Silver Anniversary celebration promotions, the North Fort Myers' based company has announced a "Three Day Bail Out" with an extra day free on every sail and power-yacht charter of two days through October. Available sailing yachts are from 29' to 42' and power yachts from 28 to 43'.

Visit Southwest Florida Yachts and Florida Sailing & Cruising School at www.flsailandcruiseschool.com, www.swfyachtsales.com or phone 800-262-7939. The company's fleets are in North Fort Myers and at Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda.

_______

FISHING TOURNAMENTS ...

LAUDERDALE SMALL BOAT CLUB has announced two tournaments scheduled for June ...

June 12 - Doll'phin Daze Tournament and June 19 - Dad's Dolphin Daze Tournament.

Father's Day Fish Fry & Awards Ceremony takes place on June 20.

Visit the club's web site, www.L-S-B-C.com, for more on both.

LSBC was established in 1948 and is one of the largest private marinas in South Florida.

_______

11 Live Music featuring Reconnections Band, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

12 event: National Marina Day, 9 am-5 pm. Visit with leaders in the industry, take tours of the Marina, enjoy water recreation activities, visit Mote Marine Mobile Laboratory, shop and dine! Fishing Clinic will be held 9:30 to 11:00 am in Center Court, taught by Captain Ralph Allen of King Fisher Fleet. Learn about the various game fish species, their habitat and techniques for catching. (Call 941 575-3000 for fishing clinic reservations.)
Live Music 4-8 pm Center Stage featuring Jimmy Parrish and the Ocean Waves Band. Free Concert!

13

14 Flag Day Celebration at Military Heritage Museum, 1-3 pm. Call 575-9002 for more information.

Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm,Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

15

16 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3 person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

17

18 Punta Gorda's own JIM MORRIS performs tropical rock music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

19 Live Music by "Beans and Seeds", 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

20 HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

21

22

23 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3 person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

24

25 Reconnections Band performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm.

26 EVENT: "The Village in Verse: a Taste of The Village" 10 am-7 pm, a presentation of Peace River Center for Writers and Fishermen's Village. Join Fishermen's Village and the Peace River Center for Writers for a novel take on previous "A Taste of the Village" events, featuring youth and adult poetry contests, workshops, music, an open mic, literary readings, and of course, a sampling of the finest food the Village has to offer. Call 637-3514 for more information.

27

28

29

30 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

_______

The USCG’s Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don’t forget to glance back over previous months’ updates every-now-and-then to see if there’s anything still ongoing that you’ve missed ...

MAY
HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2010/11 - 28th - edition of the FCD is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it and you think they SHOULD, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-10-3 ... the cover photo this time is a beautiful Sandestin Sunset!

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs. And, here's news about ...

SUMMERTIME SAVINGS!

We've noticed a lot of "sales" these days, so, not to be outdone ... WE'RE PICKING UP SHIPPING CHARGES ON ALL FLORIDA CRUISING DIRECTORIES ORDERED ON THIS SITE FROM NOW THROUGH AUGUST!

Books will be shipped "Media Rate" and you pay only the cover price of $16. per book (+ Florida Sales Tax, if applicable). Other items (up to two) included in your order will ride along "free." Maximum for the free shipping is three items. This is a good time to pick up an extra gift book for Father's Day, birthdays, whatever ...
_____

NOTE TO BOATING INDUSTRY re: WEB UPDATE NEWS

As always, your news items are welcome for our monthly web site updates, on or about the first. We need the information by about the end of the third week each month. There has been one change ... we no longer send out post card notices re: included news but try to advise new contributors by e-mail. Please visit every month ... even if your news is not in, you'll find other interesting information!

______

FCD FIXES

Here are a couple more changes for your new FCD ...

Please note on Chart 20 that construction has been completed on the new Belleair Causeway 75' fixed bridge. It's shown on page 126, St. Mile 131.8. Docks at the ramp in the area have also been completed, per Pinellas County Communications.

We failed to include a new marina name and phone on Chart 13, page 88 in this edition. The new home of Queen Anne's Revenge (the 105' schooner) should be noted right below the listing for Anchorage Resort as PonTunes Marina: 305-393-5593. They also have a grille, tiki bar and boat rentals. Our apologies to our readers and the folks at PonTunes.
_____

ANOTHER AWARD FOR CAMACHEE COVE

Not too long ago we reported that Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor & Camachee Yacht Yard, St. Augustine, were awarded ValvTect's Marina of the Year award.

Now we are pleased to share more good news! The American Boat Builders and Repairers Association recently gave the facility their Award of Excellence in Customer Care. "The harbor's marina and yard, under the direction of Sean McKenna and Pete Sabo, have been providing quality and caring service for their customers and their boats for 15 years..." according to Mark Amaral, managing director of ABBRA, a non-profit organization for the marine service industry.

Our congratulations!

______

MORE NEWS FROM NEW SMYRNA BEACH on the MARINE DISCOVERY CENTER

An April 19 Press Release from FWC announcing funding approval for construction to convert a former Volusia County high school to the Mosquito Lagoon Marine Enhancement Center caught our attention! The release says construction is set to begin this Summer. To make certain we were understanding the situation correctly, we contacted the Marine Discovery Center — on which we included a note (which follows) in last month's update — as it is also mentioned in the new release.

Plans for the newly announced spending and expansion do include the Marine Discovery Center. The city of New Smyrna Beach, the FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) and the State of Florida are combining efforts (and money) to continue the educational opportunities already in effect ... and as time goes on all of these efforts should further enhance marine life and students' learning. The water taxi is expected to remain "in place" as well.

We repeat our April inclusion here ... as it is still true ... though changes will be happening:

We've discovered a couple of new-to-our-publication items in New Smyrna which deserve notice here. There's a Marine Discovery Center at 162 North Causeway (marinediscoverycenter.org or 386-428-4828). This is a non-profit group which has a gift shop and activities for children including Camps. Other available activities for both kids and adults include Eco Tours, Sunset and Wine & Cheese Tours and Kayak Rentals. Memberships are available.

The Center also operates the City of New Smyrna Beach Water Taxi's scheduled trips to several area waterfront restaurants.

______

BAHAMAS NEWS

Bahamas Summer Boating Flings will be starting soon; we hope to have the schedule here next month. If you need to know more in the meantime, call the Bahamas Tourist Office - 1-800-Bahamas, or visit bahamas.com/boating.
_____

Abaco Beach Resort has announced that they are sponsoring their own Bahamas Sizzling Summer Fun Getaway with special group rates for groups of ten boats booking by May 31 and using by July 15th through September 30th. Rates are $199 per room/per night and $2 per foot/per night, not including water & electric. (Rates are subject to availability/restrictions apply.) For more information contact Lynne Lulff - e-mail Lynne@AbacoBeachResortSales.com or phone office: 561-2779221 or cell: 954 591-5353. Web site is www.AbacoBeachResort.com.

The resort will also help arrange speciality theme parties and/or other activities especially for your group.
_____

Atlantis has a special 4th Night Free with Free Companion Airfare through June 20. Save on other "special experiences for two ..." and perhaps catch Sheryl Crow if you're there on May 29th. Reserve at Atlantis, Paradise Island by phone - 888-879-7259 - or with your preferred travel professional.
_____

Abaco Beach Resort has announced Fishing Tournaments scheduled for May and June:

Boy Scouts Bahamas Open - May 12 - 15
Abaco Beach Resort Classic - May 25 - 29
Abaco Beach Resort / HMY Billfish Blast - May 31 - June 3
Abaco Beach Resort leg of the BBC - June 9 - 12
and the
Penny Turtle Invitational - June 15 - 19.

E-mail abacobeachresort@gmail.com or visit www.AbacoBeachResort.com.
_____

FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings and Proposed Rule Changes
GROUPER / SNOOK / LEMON SHARKS / VERMILION SNAPPER

Recreational and commercial harvest of shallow-water groupers (including gag, black grouper, red grouper, scamp, red hind, rock hind, coney, graysby, yellowfin grouper, yellowmouth grouper and tiger grouper) will reopen on May 1 in all Atlantic Ocean and Monroe County waters.

A 3-fish-per-person-aggregate daily recreational bag limit applies for all groupers in Atlantic and Monroe County waters and the captain and crew of for-hire vessels are not allowed to keep any species in the aggregate grouper bag limit. Anglers may take no more than 1 gag or black grouper (not both) within the aggregate grouper limit in those waters and dehooking tools must be aboard comercial and recreational vessels for use as needed to remove hooks from Atlantic reef fish.
___

Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure. FWC's Press Release of February 25th was a "reminder."
___

A new Lemon Sharks rule went into effect on March 23: the recreational and commercial harvest will be prohibited in Florida waters. The harvest of lemon sharks will still be allowed in offshore federal waters adjacent to state waters.
___

Recreational harvest season for vermilion snapper in Altantic Ocean waters off Florida opened on April 1. Minimum size limit for vermilion snapper in Atlantic waters is 12 inches total length. Anglers may take up to five vermilion snapper daily in Atlantic waters; however, the captain and crew of for-hire vessels may not keep the daily limit.

More information on this at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS.
___

Visit www.myFWC.com/Rules and click on "Fishing-Saltwater" for more information on all of the above.
___

... AND, It's Time to Register for Summer Camp at The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Ocala Conservation Center!

FWC has announced that its time to sign the kids up for the Ocala Outdoor Adventure Camp for boys and girls ages 9 - 15. This year there will be six one-week sessions beginning June 20.

The primary goal is to help children become good, conservation-minded sportsmen and wildlife stewards and they learn
fishing, canoeing, swimming, hiking, archery and many other outdoor activities including hunter and gun safety and advanced outdoor skills.

Tuition of $295 per camper per week includes lodging, food, program materials and instruction for each session. The camp is based in Marion County on Lake Eaton, 20 miles east of Ocala.

Call 352-625-2804 or visit www.OcalaAdventureCamp.com.
_____

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

LAGOON DISCOVERY TRIPS

Lagoon Discovery Trips on the Indian River and its tributaries are offered by the ELC. Two and one-half to three hour guided trips by canoe or kayak are scheduled from sunrise to sunset for a number of days over the next several weeks. Costs for adults are $15-$35, $7 for children. Minimum age is 8 for the kayak excursions and 10 for the canoe excursions.

NEW BUILDINGS RE-OPENING

The Grand Re-Opening of fire-damaged buildings at Vero Beach's Environmental Learning Center is scheduled for Saturday, May 1 from 11 AM 'til 2 PM. Festivities will include many interesting exhibits and activities for the whole family... There will be free parking on the ELC campus or in the Wabasso Causeway Parking areas and free shuttles will run from the parking lots to and from the ELC from 11 'til 2.

Phone 772-589-5050 or visit www.DiscoverELC.org for more complete information.
_____

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET / SEAFOOD FESTIVAL ON SCHEDULE

Miami Marine Flea Market
May 22-23, Watson Island. Potential exhibitors contact 305-461-2700 or visit www.miamimarinefleamarket.com. Check times on the web site.

Looking ahead ...

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival
Scheduled for September. Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info on the Flea Market/Festivals or call 954 205-7813.
_____

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM

The not-for-profit museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

Announced events for May 2010 ...

The Museum will sponsor Community Blood Centers from 1 - 5 PM on Mother's Day, May 9. Blood Donors — and their Moms — get free admission to the museum. There will also be a big sale going on with items up to 50% off!

On May 19, 7 PM, Florida Keys Shipwreck Salvor and Historian, Captain Carl Fismer, will present Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Shipwrecks. This is a free program at the Museum.
____

43' MAINSHIP — Sweetness II — IN CHARTER AT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS

Another Mainship 43 trawler-style cruiser ... roomy, with accommodations for up to six adults, has joined the fleet of the North Fort Myers' based company. Charters for three days or more get two extra days free between May 1 and December 14 as part of the company's 25th Anniversary Celebration.

Visit Southwest Florida Yachts and Florida Sailing & Cruising School at www.flsailandcruiseschool.com, www.swfyachtsales.com or phone 800-262-7939. The company is based in North Fort Myers.
_____

KEY WEST FISHING TOURNAMENT CONTINUES

The Key West Fishing Tournament kicked off in March ends November 30th. Men, women, juniors (10 to 14 years old) and Pee Wees (under 10) can compete to catch more than 40 species of fish. The tournament is open to visiting and resident anglers who can enter their catches at no charge at a tournament weigh station.

You can get your application in if you'll be fishing in the Keys between now and then by visiting www.keywestfishingtournament.com
_____

PLANNING AHEAD ...

LAUDERDALE SMALL BOAT CLUB has announced two tournaments scheduled for June ...

June 12 - Doll'phin Daze Tournament and June 19 - Dad's Dolphin Daze Tournament.
Father's Day Fish Fry & Awards Ceremony takes place on June 20.

Visit the club's web site, www.L-S-B-C.com, for more on both.

LSBC was established in 1948 and is one of the largest private marinas in South Florida.
_____

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen’s Village - celebrating 30 Years in 2010! - is the Punta Gorda marina with shopping mall, restaurants and villas for rent. It's located off Marion Ave. at 1200 West Retta Esplanade. Mall is open seven days a week; phone 1-800-639-0020 or 941-639-8721 for more information or visit www.fishville.com.

The marina has announced their newest addition ... the 77' Harbor Lady, Charlotte Harbor's only dining and cruising yacht.

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.
( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT usually on Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for May, 2010 ...
Day Event

1 The Yard Dogs perform Florida Cajun Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

2

3

4

5 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

6 Muttini Mingle, The Floating "Yappy Hour", 5:30-8 pm, Center Court. Social time for people and their pets. Call Salty Paws, 575-7599 for more information. Live Music by Reconnections Band.

7 Punta Gorda's own Jim Morris in Concert, 5-9 pm, Center Stage, featuring "trop rock" music.

8 EVENT: Fine Arts & Crafts Show, presented by Sunset Boulevard Promotions, 10 am-6pm Saturday and 12 Noon-5pm Sunday. All handmade, juried work including pottery, jewelry, ceramics, fine art. Call 941 379-0951 for more information.

Live Music 5-9 pm Center Stage, featuring "Destined".

9 HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

EVENT: Fine Arts & Craft Show, 12 Noon-5pm. Free admission.

EVENT: "Saving Lillian", fundraiser event for Baby Lillian who was born with a Cystic Hygroma, 12 Noon-4 pm at Harpoon Harry's in Fishermen's Village. Live music, Raffle, 50/50, Silent Auction, Food and Drinks. For more information, call Darlene Armstrong at 941 456-9042.

10 Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information.

11

12 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

13

14 Free concert presented by COCONUT RADIO, 5-9 pm, Center Stage Friday and Saturday evening. Come enjoy this eclectic blend of lite rock, tropical melodies and originals. Free.

15 EVENT: 7th Annual Kids Cup Redfish Tournament and Redfish Tracking Project. In the Kids Cup, anglers age 10 through 16 compete for Top-5 status and Kids Cup Winner. Adults are boat drivers and allowed to bait the hook. The Kids Cup, The Redfish Tracking Project and the Don Ball School of Fishing are run by Michael and Ellen Heller. For more information visit www.KidsCupTournament.com or call 941 766-8180.

Free concert presented by COCONUT RADIO, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Come enjoy this eclectic blend of lite rock, tropical melodies and originals. Free.

16

17

18

19 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3 person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

20

21 FREMONT JOHN in Concert, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Adult Contemporary Singer/Songwriter with a strong, versatile voice (think Jonny Lang or Rob Thomas) and very clean, melodic guitar style (think acoustic Santana meets Craig Chaquico) are Fremont's magic. Whether an original work or a cover song, John makes it his own. His style and killer sound make him a standout in a crowded field! FREE! Seating limited; bring chairs! Call 639- 8721 for more information. Visit Fremont John on line at www.fremontjohn.com.

22 Live Music Center Stage by RECONNECTIONS BAND, 5-9 pm

23 EVENT: The United States Navy Band "Cruisers" present free concert, 2 pm, Center Court. Direct from Washington, D.C., the U.S. Navy Band Cruisers is a dynamic 8-piece vocal and instrumental ensemble performing everything from jazz to classic rock to rhythm and blues. Call 941 639-8721 for more information.

24

25

26 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

27

28 Live Music by Father/Daughter Duo "Magen & Mike", 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

29 Live entertainment Center Stage featuring "Cheeky Monkey", 5-9 pm.

30

31 EVENT: Memorial Day Ceremony Center Stage presented by Military Heritage Museum. High School Band, 11 am-12 Noon, Ceremony 12 Noon-1:30 pm, Live music 3-5 pm by the "Ingroov" Jazz Ensemble. Free

_____

APR

WEB UPDATE / APRIL 2010

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2010/11 - 28th - edition of the FCD is now available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it and you think they SHOULD, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-10-3 ... the cover photo this time is a beautiful Sandestin Sunset!

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.
_____

NOTE TO BOATING INDUSTRY re: WEB UPDATE NEWS

As always, your news items are welcome for our monthly web site updates, on or about the first. There has been one change ... we no longer send out post card notices re: included news. Please visit every month ... even if your news is not in, you'll find other interesting information!
_____

BETTER DIRECTIONS FOR ENTRANCE TO ALL AMERICAN COVERED BOAT STORAGE

Richard Bossey, owner of the above-mentioned business, phoned to tell us our editorial in this issue of the FCD could be a bit misleading on the entrance to All American Covered Boat Storage. Although the Myakka River is known for birdwatching and fishing from small boats, the entrance to All American is at Marker 9, right at the head of Charlotte Harbor. Boats up to 65' are welcome at All American and they (and, of course, smaller boats, too) travel there on the Santa Cruz Waterway, one of our state's natural waterways. The do-it-yourself yard hauls to 37-tons and has some services available as well as ship's store and convenient parts ordering/delivery. They've just installed three new military hangers to handle 9 more large yachts! The recently updated web site — www.aaboatstorage.com — tells you more about it.
_____

NEW EDITORIAL STAFF COMING ABOARD

Long-time friends, Captain Bob Tower and his wife, Ginny, have agreed to give us a hand in editorial updates for the FCD and web site starting soon. The Towers live aboard their trawler and do a lot of cruising in Florida and the Bahamas, so their information will be very welcome!
_____

The following notice was run in January. We're continuing it again now as the project is scheduled to run 'til about mid-April.

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

WHAT AND WHERE CONCERNING THE DREDGING PROJECT

Maintenance Dredging, 43-ft and 34-ft Project, Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C,
Port Sutton Sparkman and Ybor Channels
Hillsborough County, Florida

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C, Port Sutton Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel and Ybor Channel.

2. The project consists of dredging the Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C Station 0+00 to Station 30+00 and Station 280+00 to Station 341+77.61 Port Sutton Channel Station 0+00 to Station 5.00 East Bay Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel Station 57+00 to Station 67+00, and Ybor Channel Station 0+00 to Station 43+07.81. Approximately 379,000 cubic yards of material will be dredged. A 16" cutter suction dredge and a clamshell dredge will be used to perform the dredging operations. The project will last approximately 142 days and is scheduled to commence on November 30, 2009.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this issue and others may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Mr. Millan A. Mora, Jacksonville, FL 904- 232-1454.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division
_____

FCD FIXES

Here are a couple of changes for your new FCD ...

Please put MAR Marina, 727-939-1589 (a designated Florida Clean Marina) back on the tippy-top of Chart 20 on page 126 with other Tarpon Springs listings. We were told the marina had closed but it is still open for dockage — with beautiful scenery. Most boatyard services have been discontinued, at least for the time being.

On Chart 4, the listing for Scorpion's NewPort Marina should be changed to the new name - Port Canaveral Marina. Phone remains the same - 321-784-5788.
_____

ST. AUGUSTINE MUNICIPAL MOORING FIELD

The City of St. Augustine has announced plans for three new mooring fields ... Menendez (south of the Bridge of Lions with 70 moorings); San Marcos (north of the Bridge of Lions with 28 moorings); and Salt Run (both east and west sides of the Salt Run channel with 80 moorings). Reservations will be accepted by the city beginning in June. Visit the web site for schedules and more information ... www.staugustinemarina.com or phone 904-825-1026 ... e-mail marina@citystaug.com with specific questions.

ANCHORING in SARASOTA

As we go to e-press with the April update, we must advise that we've been unable to get further information on this report as mentioned here last month:

... a Sarasota anchoring situation involving a possible city lawsuit! To find out more, we talked with Jan Thornberg, Public Information Officer for Sarasota on February 18, who told us that the city has " ... no definitive answer concerning the policy at this time ..." but an announcement should be made within the next few weeks.

That would have been early in March, but as we complete this April update, we must advise that we've been unable to find out anything further. Maybe more in May(?). In the meantime, interested cruisers should watch the boating press for news.

NEW SMYRNA BEACH NEWS on the MARINE DISCOVERY CENTER

We've discovered a couple of new-to-our-publication items in New Smyrna which deserve notice here. There's a Marine Discovery Center at 162 North Causeway (marinediscoverycenter.org or 386-428-4828). This is a non-profit group which has a gift shop and activities for children including Camps. Other available activities for both kids and adults include Eco Tours, Sunset and Wine & Cheese Tours and Kayak Rentals. Memberships are available.

The Center also operates the City of New Smyrna Beach Water Taxi's scheduled trips to several area waterfront restaurants.

KEYS NEWS - APRIL IS AMERICA'S WATERWAY WATCH MONTH

Monroe County has proclaimed April 2010 as America's Waterway Watch month. The proclamation was presented to members of the US Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Auxiliary at the County Commission meeting in Marathon on March 17. The hope is to lead the way in raising public awareness of this important program.

This national program with a local focus on the USCG and the Auxiliary encourages Americans who live, work or play on or near our waterways to become a part of the eyes and ears of our national defenders in the war on terrorism by being observant and reporting suspicious activities by telephone to the National Response Center (1-877-24WATCH) or 911.

The CG Auxiliary is scheduling numerous engagements at local marinas, schools and clubs. The local group can be reached by phone at 305-745-1546.

The current FCD includes a report on AWW on page 27 (our What's Happening / Security page 27. The web site is www.americaswaterwaywatch.us or www.americaswatewaywatch.org.

FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings and Proposed Rule Changes
SNOOK / SPOTTED SEATROUT / LEMON SHARKS / BONEFISH / BALLYHOO

Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure. FWC's Press Release of February 25th was a "reminder."

A new Lemon Sharks rule went into effect on March 23: the recreational and commercial harvest will be prohibited in Florida waters. The harvest of lemon sharks will still be allowed in offshore federal waters adjacent to state waters.

Bonefishing rules have been proposed to provide more protection for this premier saltwater game fish in Florida. The temporary commercial harvest and possession prohibition until April 1 has remained in effect (and recreational fishermen have been able to catch and release bonefish during this closure). A final public hearing on proposed bonefish rule amendments will take place during the FWC's April meeting in the Tallahassee area.

Proposed licensing requirements for commercial Ballyhoo rules have been proposed and a final public hearing will take place during the FWC's April meeting in the Tallahassee area.

Visit www.myFWC.com/Rules and click on "Fishing-Saltwater" for more information on all of the above.

_____

BOAT SHOWS / NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS / SEAFOOD FESTIVALS & MORE SCHEDULED

Jacksonville International Boat Show
April 16 - 18, Metropolitan Park & Marina. Visit www.jaxboatshow.com or phone 904-673-0093.

Pensacola Boat Show
April 9 - 11, Pensacola Civic Center. Visit www.gulfcoastshows.com

Suncoast Boat Show
April 16 - 18, Ken Thompson Park, City Island. Visit www.showmanagement.com

Charlotte County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival
April 16-18 at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds, 2333 El Jobean Rd., Port Charlotte.

Apalachicola Antique & Classic Boat Show
April 24 is the day for owners of antique boats and classic examples of traditional vessels and custom classics to show them at this 12th Annual event. Dinner and a lecture follow the day's viewing at 6 PM. For more info please contact the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce at 850-653-9419 or e-mail anita@apalachicolabay.org. The web site is www.apalachicolabay.org.

Looking ahead ...

Miami Marine Flea Market
May 22-23, Watson Island. Potential exhibitors contact 305-461-2700 or www.miamimarinefleamarket.com

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival
Scheduled for September.

Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info on the Flea Market/Festivals or call 954 205-7813.

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM

The not-for-profit museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

New event for April 2010 ...

April 21, 7 PM, the Museum continues the Immerse Yourself! Free Program Series with The Preservation of Florida Bay with Rob Clift of National Parks Conservation Association. Call 305-664-9737 for more information.
_____

KEY WEST FISHING TOURNAMENT CONTINUES

The seven-month-long Key West Fishing Tournament kicked off on March 13 and 14 ... ends November 30th. Men, women, juniors (10 to 14 years old) and Pee Wees (under 10) can compete to catch more than 40 species of fish. The tournament is open to visiting and resident anglers who can enter their catches at no charge at a tournament weigh station.

You can get your application in if you'll be fishing in the Keys between now and then by visiting www.keywestfishingtournament.com
_____

PLANNING AHEAD ...

LAUDERDALE SMALL BOAT CLUB has announced two tournaments scheduled for June ...

June 12 - Doll'phin Daze Tournament and June 19 - Dad's Dolphin Daze Tournament.
Father's Day Fish Fry & Awards Ceremony takes place on June 20.

Visit the club's web site, www.L-S-B-C.com, for more on both.

LSBC was established in 1948 and is one of the largest private marinas in South Florida.
_____

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.
( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Usually on Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for April, 2010 ...

Day Event

1 Muttini Mingle, the floating "Yappy Hour" 5:30-8 pm. Social for people and their pets! Reconnections Band

performs variety/dance music, center stage. Call Salty Paws 575-7599 for more information.
Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

2 Sean & Ramsi perform variety & dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

3 Pictures with the Easter Bunny (bring your camera) 11 am-1 pm

EVENT: Salty Paws 2nd Annual "Easter Bone Hunt", 11 am Center Court to benefit EARS Animal Sanctuary. Call 575-7599 for details!.

Singer Kim Jenkins performs classics and dance music, 5-9pm, Center Stage.

4 HAPPY EASTER! Village closed today (check restaurant listings for individual hours of operation/seatings)

5

6

7 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

8 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

Singer/Performer GREG RINI, 5-8 pm, Center Stage. Direct from Chicago, Greg is a national touring entertainer, starring in two Vegas style shows: "Superstars in Concert" & "Back to the Rat Pack".

9 Reconnections Band performs oldies, variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

10 Mickey's Limit performs dance and variety music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

11 EVENT: Fishermen's Village 2nd Annual SW Florida Bridal Show and Expo, 12 Noon-6 pm. Presented by Fishermen's Village, Charlotte Bridal Boutique, Do-All Rental, LarGlo Travel & Cruises and iTravel4Less.biz. Meet with leaders in the industry to plan your special day! Food sampling, prize giveaways, infomal modeling. Interested in exhibiting? Click here for registration form. images/2nd AnnualSWFloridaBridalShowExhibitorappl.doc
Call 941 575-3067 for more information.

12 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group, 11:30 am-1 pm, Center Stage. Free

Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by the Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

13

14 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

15 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

16 The Top Hats Swing/Big Band Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

17 EVENT: Ella Jenkins Concert and Week of the Young Child Celebration, 10 am-2 pm, Center Court. Early care education programs and activities for young children will be throughout the Village. Sponsored by ELCFH. For more information call Marjorie Bateman at 941 255-1650.

"Beans and Seeds" perform variety, original and eclectic music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

18

19

20

21 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3 person, 7-=9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

22 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

The One Man Band, Dean POEPPE, 5:30-8 pm, Center Stage. Oldies, rock, country, and a little bit of the blues.
FREE
23 The Yard Dogs perform Florida Cajun Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

24 EVENT: ECOFEST 2010, presented by Natural Awakenings Magazine, 10 am-6pm. Free admission! Don't miss this first annual Fishermen's Village event saluting Earth Day! Exhibitors throughout the Village for health, wellness, environment, conservation. Call Jason Cross, 941 351-3740 for more information!

Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst performs original and variety music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

25

26

27

28 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

29 The One Man Band, Dean POEPPE, 5:30-8 pm, Center Stage. Oldies, rock, country, and a little bit of the blues.
FREE
30 National Slide Guitar Champion, KRAIG KENNING, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

The USCG’s Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don’t forget to glance back over previous months’ updates every-now-and-then to see if there’s anything still ongoing that you’ve missed ...

MAR

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2010/11 - 28th - edition of the FCD is now available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it and you think they SHOULD, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-10-3 ... the cover photo this time is a beautiful Sandestin Sunset!

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.

_____

The following two notices run in January were received too late for our December update. We're continuing them as the Fernandina project is scheduled to run through mid-March; the Tampa project 'til about mid-April.

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

WHAT AND WHERE CONCERNING THE DREDGING PROJECT

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Fernandina Harbor/Kings Bay Entrance Channel, Cut 1N in Nassau County, FL and Camden County, GA.

2. Specific info about project: O&M dredging will occur in the federal channel from the jetties to approximately 7 nm seaward. Project limits are from Cut1N Sta 80+00 to Sta 470+00. Approximately 1.2 million cubic yards of material will be dredged. Placement locations include an Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Site (ODMDS) that is located approximately 14 miles south east of the project, the groin field adjacent to Fort Clinch, Fernandina Beach. Hopper dredge plants will be used. Dredging may occur anytime from 01 Dec 2009 through 15 March 2010.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. The project Description and Details may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District Advertised Solicitation website: specific link that directs to the particular project. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is C. Joy Spencer (Ops Manager) 904- 232-2978.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.

Chief, Operations Division

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

Maintenance Dredging, 43-ft and 34-ft Project, Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C,

Port Sutton Sparkman and Ybor Channels

Hillsborough County, Florida

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C, Port Sutton Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel and Ybor Channel.

2. The project consists of dredging the Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C Station 0+00 to Station 30+00 and Station 280+00 to Station 341+77.61 Port Sutton Channel Station 0+00 to Station 5.00 East Bay Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel Station 57+00 to Station 67+00, and Ybor Channel Station 0+00 to Station 43+07.81. Approximately 379,000 cubic yards of material will be dredged. A 16" cutter suction dredge and a clamshell dredge will be used to perform the dredging operations. The project will last approximately 142 days and is scheduled to commence on November 30, 2009.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this issue and others may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Mr. Millan A. Mora, Jacksonville, FL 904- 232-1454.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.

Chief, Operations Division

_____

BILL BIRD MARINA AT HAULOVER PARK WINS AWARD

Bill Bird Marina at Haulover Park (Chart 11) has been named National Marina Day Marina of the Year by the International Marina and Boatyard Conference in Tampa. The conference is managed by the Association of Marina Industries.

Long known as Haulover Park Marina the Bill Bird name was added recently to honor the former Director of the Parks Department. The marina has just completed a 10-year expansion project, growing from 39 to 150 slips. Besides having received the recognition, the marina will be the site of the opening June 12 event for National Marina Day 2010. Congratulations to the marina and Miami-Dade Parks on the award!

FCD UPDATE / ANCHORING in SARASOTA

This is not really an "update," more like a promise of an "update-to-come."

As mentioned in press releases on the new FCD, we're again running an article on anchoring in Florida, this one provided by Dockmaster Mark Leslie of Titusville. (Besides dockmastering, he is connected with the FWC's Boating Advisory Council and Florida's DEP.) The anchoring situation in Florida has been of concern to boating people here for some time.

We've become aware recently about a Sarasota anchoring situation involving a possible city lawsuit! To find out more, we talked with Jan Thornberg, Public Information Officer for Sarasota on February 18, who told us that the city has " ... no definitively answer concerning the policy at this time ..." but an announcement should be made within the next few weeks. That will be early in March, so we'll attempt to have more information in next month's update. In the meantime, interested cruisers should watch the boating press for news.

FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings and Proposed Rule Changes

GULF GROUPER / SNOOK / SPOTTED SEATROUT / LEMON SHARKS / BONEFISH / BALLYHOO

Gulf Grouper Sport Season closed February 1 prohibiting the recreational harvest of all shallow-water groupers (gag, black, red, yellowfin, scamp, yellowmouth, rock hind and red hind through March 31 in all Gulf of Mexico waters off Florida except in all waters of Monroe County.

Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure. FWC's Press Release of February 25th was a "reminder."

Spotted Seatrout recreational harvest season is scheduled to re-open on March 1 as mentioned here last month. That's still scheduled for "all Florida waters" according to latest FWC Press Release on February 25th.

A new Lemon Sharks rule goes into effect on March 23: the recreational and commercial harvest will be prohibited in Florida waters. The harvest of lemon sharks will still be allowed in offshore federal waters adjacent to state waters.

Bonefishing rules have been proposed to provide more protection for this premier saltwater game fish in Florida. The temporary commercial harvest and possession prohibition until April 1 remains in effect and recreational fishermen may still catch and release bonefish during this closure. A final public hearing on proposed bonefish rule amendments will take place during the FWC's April meeting in the Tallahassee area.

Proposed licensing requirements for commercial Ballyhoo rules have been proposed and a final public hearing will take place during the FWC's April meeting in the Tallahassee area.

Visit www.myFWC.com/Rules and click on "Fishing-Saltwater for more information on all of the above.

_____

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER SCHEDULE

ECO-FEST

Sunday, March 7th from 12 'til 4PM, the ELC's 64-acre campus will be filled with activities including art projects, craft booths and live music for the group's 14th annual EcoFest. The public is invited; admission is free and it is billed as a great event for families and children.

There will be storytellers nestled in the shade of giant oak trees for stories every hour and half-hour. Canoe guides will meet you for easy paddles through waterway trails and more. Food vendors selling burgers, Greek delights, fruit kabobs, popcorn drinks and other goodies will be in the Food Court area with prices that are family-friendly.

LAGOON DISCOVERY TRIPS

Lagoon Discovery Trips on the Indian River and its tributaries are offered by the ELC. Two and one-half to three hour guided trips by canoe or kayak are scheduled from sunrise to sunset for a number of days over the next several weeks. Costs for adults are $15-$35, $7 for children. Minimum age is 8 for the kayak excursions and 10 for the canoe excursions.

Phone 772-589-5050 or visit www.DiscoverELC.org for more complete information.

BOAT SHOWS / NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS / SEAFOOD FESTIVALS SCHEDULED

Fort Myers Spring Boat Show

March 11 - 14, Lee Civic Center. Visit www.fortmyersboatshow.com or info@swfmia.com

Palm Beach International Boat Show

March 25 - 28, downtown West Palm Beach. Visit www.showmanagement.com

Pensacola Boat Show

April 9 - 11, Pensacola Civic Center. Visit www.gulfcoastshows.com

Suncoast Boat Show

April 16 - 18, Ken Thompson Park, City Island. Visit www.showmanagement.com

Charlotte County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival

April 16-18 at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds, 2333 El Jobean Rd., Port Charlotte.

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival

Scheduled for September.

Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info on the Flea Market/Festivals or call 954 205-7813.

History of Diving Museum

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

New events for March 2010 ...

Sea Urchin Research efforts to restore its population to the reefs. Call the museum (number above) for more information.

The Museum has scheduled a new exhibit unveiling Monday, March 15 for the Commercial Diving Hall of Fame Monument Exhibit — with opening and reception (5 to 7PM) to pay tribute to the commercial diving industry. Tickets are $30 per person, free for Assn. of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and History of Diving Museum members. Call 305-664-9737 or e-mail info@DivingMuseum.org to reserve or for more information.

Wednesday, March 17, there's a free program on Commercial Diving by Phil Newsum, Executive Director of the ADCI at 7 PM.

Thursday, March 25, 7 PM, the Museum hosts A Special Evening with Bob Croft who will present a program on freediving. Croft, considered to be the father of American freediving, is currently a world record holder in the sport. He is a former US Navy dive instructor and will share stores about his career and US Navy research.

_____

VALV-TECT's MARINA OF THE YEAR AWARD

Camachee Cove Yacht Harbor, St. Augustine, has been named 2009 Certified ValvTect Marina of the Year. Jerry Nessenson, ValvTect president stated the choice was made "... because of ... outstanding operation, total commitment to customer service ... [and] community and environmental stewardship." Sean McKenna and Peter Sabo and their crews were congratulated in the statememt.

Congratulations also go to AquaMarina Hidden Harbour in Pompano Beach on their honorable mention.

_____

ANOTHER NEW BOAT IN CHARTER AT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS, THIS ONE NAMED FOR BEATLES' TUNE

It's a Mainship 43 trawler-style cruiser ... roomy, with accommodations for up to six adults, with a name from the famous Beatles' tune, Here, There and Everywhere. Barb Hansen, proprietor, says you can sing Beatles songs as you cruise along and check out the scenery and ports ... here, there and everywhere from Captiva Island to Boca Grande and many places in between!

Visit Southwest Florida Yachts and Florida Sailing & Cruising School at www.flsailandcruiseschool.com, www.swfyachtsales.com or phone 800-262-7939. The company is based in North Fort Myers.

_____

TOO LATE TO CLASSIFY

Late in January — on the 31st, as a matter of fact — we received a request from www.boatnames.net asking us to include a classified listing in the FCD for the company. They said that "... boaters find our service to be very complimentary to their boating experience ..." They handle "all Florida" and seem to be Florida-based. So, here it is ... just pretend it's under Miscellaneous on page 151: www.boatnames.net. Phone is 800-205-6652.

If you're not ready for a new name, you could just jot this down on page 151 for if/when you need it. They've been doing boat lettering since 1989.

_____

COMING UP IN MARCH ...

(... besides St. Patrick's Day on the 17th ...)

LARGOPALOOZA MARCH 6

The Largopalooza Music & Arts Festival is scheduled for - where else but Key Largo(!) - at PonTunes Marina Tiki Bar & Grille at 107690 Overseas Hwy, south side of the new Jewfish Creek Bridge. Promising fun for the whole family, there will be games, arts & crafts, boat rides and more. $10 tickets, doors open at 2 PM, live music starts at 4 PM. 305-451-0864 is the number to call for more information.

_____

KEY WEST FISHING TOURNAMENT

The seven-month-long Key West Fishing Tournament kicks off on March 13 and 14 ... ending November 30th. Men, women, juniors (10 to 14 years old) and Pee Wees (under 10) can compete to catch more than 40 species of fish. The tournament is open to visiting and resident anglers who can enter their catches at no charge at a tournament weigh station.

You can get your application in if you'll be fishing in the Keys between now and then by visiting www.keywestfishingtournament.com

RIVERDAY in MIAMI

The Miami River Commission reports that the 14th annual Miami Riverday Festival will be held on March 20 at its original location: the historic Lummus Park and the Lummus Landing waterfront in downtown Miami. For more information go to www.miamirivercommission.org.

_____

DANIA FLEA MARKET

March 18-21 is the time for the 32nd annual Dania Marine Flea Market by Al Behrendt Enterprises. Contact phone is 954 920-7877 or dmfm@albehrendt.com. It's a great "nautical swap shop."

_____

BARGAINS and EXTRA BENEFITS in the BAHAMAS

Abaco Beach Resort at Boat Harbour is providing — for a limited time with a five night stay — use of a free sport boat for three days of your stay. This free boat special (announced in their February 25th Press Release) "... won't last long, The exclusive package includes 5 nights of oceanfront accommodations, 3 days use of a center console boat and unlimited use of non-motorized water sports equipment, tennis courts, swimming pools and fitness center." Children 12 or under stay free. Call 1-800-468-4799 for more details.

Atlantis at Paradise Island has a hotel special Stay 3 Nights and get the 4th Night Free. Their February 24th Press Release says Book by March 7 and travel through March 13th and save more!

_____

LADIES LET'S GO FISHING!

The "No Yelling School of Fishing" for ladies has scheduled a seminar for Naples, Florida for March 19-21. This will be a weekend of educational fishing activities at the Naples Harbour Yacht Club. Early registration is $99 thirty days or more in advance. Registration includes instruction, use of equipment, hands-on training, networking reception, silent auction , meals, goody bags and more. The Sunday Fishing Adventure, with tackle and bait provided, is additional.

Phone contact 954-475-9068. E-mail info@ladiesletsgofishing.com or visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com

_____

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Besides all of the interesting events it contains for our web site update users, here's another nice thing for us about having the Fishermen's Village events calendar here every month: We know that even if we forget to say Merry Christmas or Happy Valentine's Day we can always feel comfortable that you've received the greeting because THEY NEVER FORGET! (They didn't actually SAY "Happy St. Patrick's Day" this time, but they do tell about the Celebration, center court, from 5 'til 9!)

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.

( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Usually on Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:

COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for March, 2010 ...

Day Event

1 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Center Stage

3 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech, and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Fishermen's Village TROLLEY TOUR presented by Trolley Tours by Jo. Enjoy a Punta Gorda Mural and History Tour featuring "Marshalls & Madams", 10 am - 12 noon. $15 per person. Call 639-8721 to reserve your seat!

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

4 Muttini Mingle, the floating "yappy hour", 5:30-8 pm, Center Court. Social for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws, 575-7599 for more information.

Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

5 Singer Kim Jenkins performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm, center stage.

6 EVENT: Peace River Riders Bicycle Club 1st Annual POKER RIDE. Starts and Finishes at Fishermen's Village. 15 miles - 25 miles - 45 miles. Click here to register on line or call Court at 941-626-3285

Carol and Johnnie perform variety, country and dance music 5-9 pm, center stage

8 Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

10 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am-1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

11 Special performance by "Lucky 4 Us Barbershop Quartet", 5:30-6:30 pm, Center Stage.

Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

12 Reconnections Band performs variety/dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

13 "Beans and Seeds" performs variety, eclectic and dance music 5-9 pm, center stage

15 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am - 1 pm, Center Stage.

16 SPECIAL CONCERT; Marcille Wallis & Friends, 6-8 pm, Center Stage. Free parking; free admission. Celtic music, Irish Dancers in traditional costume. Limited seating; bring chairs.

17 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am-1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Fishermen's Village TROLLEY TOUR. Enjoy a Punta Gorda Mural and History Tour presented by Trolley Tours by Jo. This week's theme: "Beauty & Bounty...Nature's Gift to Charlotte Harbor" 3-5 pm, $15 per person. Call 639-8721 to reserve your seat!

EVENT: St. Patrick's Day Celebration, 5-9 pm, Center Court. Event begins at 5 pm with Lee County Pipes & Drums, followed by live entertainment by Mickey's Limit Band, center court, until 9 pm. Free admission; free parking.

18 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

Singer/Performer GREG RINI, 5-8 pm, Center Stage. Chicago Entertainer featuring sounds of the Rat Pack, Elvis, Motown and more! Free.

19 The Top Hats Swing/Big Band, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

20 The Yard Dogs perform Florida cajun music, 5-9 pm, center stage.

24 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

25 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

26 Mickey's Limit performs variety/dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

27 Fishermen's Village "Hop Into Spring" Easter Event!

Entertainment, Food, Fun, Music & Prizes

- Easter Egg Hunt for Children 10 - 11 am

- Children's Craft Activities at participating village merchants, 11 am - 3 pm

- Pictures with Easter Bunny (bring your camera) 11 am - 1 pm

- Sallie Jones Sizzlin Tigers Jump Rope Team, 11 - 11:30 am

- Wacky Jackie the Clown Shows, Center Court, 11:30 am & 1 pm

- Easter Bonnet Parade at 12 Noon and Contest at 12:30 pm

- Skeeball game, courtesy of Charlotte Stone Crabs

- Meet Stoney, the Charlotte Stone Crabs Mascot!

- Children's fun 'n games by the Punta Gorda Branch of YMCA.

For more information on our "Hop Into Spring" Events, call 941 575-3067

EVENT: Charlotte Harbor by the light of the full moon, the sound of poetry on the air, and some of Charlotte County's most creative individuals all gathered in one spot — this is what "La Literatura de la Luna" promises to be. Come read your work, listen to local musicians and enjoy the night air. "La Literatura de la Luna" will be sailing Saturday, March 27th, at 7:30 pm from Fishermen's Village on the Kingfisher Fleet's Good Time Too. Mark your calendars and reserve your tickets now! Please call (941) 637-3514 or email prcw@edison.edu for more information. Tickets are $25 per person.

29 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am - 1 pm, Center Stage.

30 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos

by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

31 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG’s Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don’t forget to glance back over previous months’ updates every-now-and-then to see if there’s anything still ongoing that you’ve missed ...

FEB

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2010/11 - 28th - edition of the FCD will be available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere this month. We plan to have it available at Bluewater Books & Charts by mid-month both in their store and at their Miami Boat Show booth on the mezzanine. If your favorite store doesn't have it, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-10-3 ... the cover photo this time is a beautiful Sandestin Sunset!

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.

LORAN C Signals to End

The U.S. Coast Guard will terminate the transmission of all U.S. Loran-C signals effective on 8 February, 2010. At that time, the signals will no longer be usable. This termination does not affect U.S. participation in the Russian-American or Canadian Loran-C chains. U.S. participation in these chains will continue temporarily in accordance with international agreements.

(Received January 8 message from Seventh Coast Guard District Public Affairs Staff, 305-415-6683.)

PORT MAYACA LOCK GUIDE WALL REPAIRS / USACOE Jacksonville Notice

As announced here in recent months, Port Mayaca Lock guide wall repairs are scheduled to continue through 19 February 2010. Delays are not expected.

Check December 2009 web update for complete information ...

The following two notices were received too late for our December update.

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

WHAT AND WHERE CONCERNING THE DREDGING PROJECT

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Fernandina Harbor/Kings Bay Entrance Channel, Cut 1N in Nassau County, FL and Camden County, GA.

2. Specific info about project: O&M dredging will occur in the federal channel from the jetties to approximately 7 nm seaward. Project limits are from Cut1N Sta 80+00 to Sta 470+00. Approximately 1.2 million cubic yards of material will be dredged. Placement locations include an Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Site (ODMDS) that is located approximately 14 miles south east of the project, the groin field adjacent to Fort Clinch, Fernandina Beach. Hopper dredge plants will be used. Dredging may occur anytime from 01 Dec 2009 through 15 March 2010.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. The project Description and Details may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District Advertised Solicitation website: specific link that directs to the particular project. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is C. Joy Spencer (Ops Manager) 904- 232-2978.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

Maintenance Dredging, 43-ft and 34-ft Project, Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C,
Port Sutton Sparkman and Ybor Channels
Hillsborough County, Florida

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C, Port Sutton Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel and Ybor Channel.

2. The project consists of dredging the Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C Station 0+00 to Station 30+00 and Station 280+00 to Station 341+77.61 Port Sutton Channel Station 0+00 to Station 5.00 East Bay Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel Station 57+00 to Station 67+00, and Ybor Channel Station 0+00 to Station 43+07.81. Approximately 379,000 cubic yards of material will be dredged. A 16" cutter suction dredge and a clamshell dredge will be used to perform the dredging operations. The project will last approximately 142 days and is scheduled to commence on November 30, 2009.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this issue and others may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Mr. Millan A. Mora, Jacksonville, FL 904- 232-1454.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

NEW BRIDGE SCHEDULED FOR LANTANA

Plans for a replacement of the East Ocean Avenue (a/k/a Lantana) Bridge have been announced. Construction may begin mid-2010.

MIAMI RIVER 5th STREET BRIDGE UPDATE

Editor/Captain Bob Armstrong says there's good news and bad news on the 5th Street Bridge ... The good news is that progress seems to be moving along quite well and the bridge may be finished before year's end.

The bad news: current work requires both spans to be down much of the time. This can mean long waits for an opening, although "on demand" is scheduled. Captain Bob (and others) waited for nearly 1 hour and 30 minutes on one of his trips downriver and a few days later, he waited 50 minutes going upriver. Besides the frustration of having to wait, calls to CH 9 seem to go unanswered and unrecognized!

If you'll be traveling on the Miami River you may need to plan lots of extra time!

FWC UPDATES

Openings and Closings
GULF GROUPER/SNOOK/SPOTTED SEATROUT

Gulf Grouper Sport Season closes February 1 per Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. This prohibits the recreational harvest of all shallow-water groupers (gag, black, red, yellowfin, scamp, yellowmouth, rock hind and red hind from Feb. 1. through March 31 in all Gulf of Mexico waters off Florida except in all waters of Monroe County.

Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure.

Spotted Seatrout recreational harvest season will close for one month on February 1. This applies to all Atlantic waters north of the Flagler-Volusia county line to the Georgia border and in Gulf of Mexico waters north of a line running due west from the westernmost point of Fred Howard Park Causeway (about 1.17 miles south of the Pinellas-Pasco county line) to the Alabama border. All other areas in Florida remain open to the recreational harvest of spotted seatrout under current FWC regulations, available at MyFWC.com/Rules, click on "Fishing-Saltwater.

Visit www.myFWC.com/Rules and click on "Fishing-Saltwater.

BOAT SHOWS SCHEDULED

The NMMA has announced that Strictly Sail Miami Boat Show is moving to Sea Isle Marina to share exhibit space with the powerboat portion of the Miami Show in February. Show dates are February 11-15. More at www.miamiboatshow.com.

The Jacksonville Boat Show is scheduled for February 6 & 7 at Prime Osborne Convention Center.

Jack Allinson II, accredited marine surveyor and certified infrared thermographer, will be conducting a one-day seminar on February 6 in conjunction with the show. The seminar will be held from 8AM 'til 4:30PM; early registration cost is $450 and includes seminar presentation materials. For more visit www.allinson.com or phone 904-721-2177.

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER LECTURE SCHEDULE

Vero Beach's ELC has scheduled a talk by Dr. Rachel Wentz for February 17 from 5 - 6:30 PM. She'll be talking about COASTAL ARCHEOLOGY. Admission is $15. Phone 772-589-5050 or visit www.Discover ELC.org

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS/SEAFOOD FESTIVALS SCHEDULED

Palm Beach Marine Flea Market & Seafood Festival
February 26-28 at the Palm Beach Kennel Club, 1111 N. Congress Ave., West Palm Beach.

Charlotte County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival
April 16-18 at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds, 2333 El Jobean Rd., Port Charlotte.

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival
Scheduled for September.

Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info on all of the above. 954 205-7813

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

New events for February 2010 ...

Sea Urchin Research & Restoration

Wednesday, February 17 at 7PM Martin (Skip) Moe, Jr., an adjunct scientist with Mote Marine Laboratory will present a free program at the museum on sea urchin research and restoration. Moe will also talk about the ecological importance of this spiny species and efforts to restore its population to the reefs. Call the museum (number above) for more information.

Museum to Exhibit at Founders Park Flea Market

The museum will have a booth (#196) at the 15th Annual Nautical Flea market at Founder's Park in Islamorada February 20 & 21.

FISHING / RFA

Repeating from last update ... In an historic show of solidarity, commercial and recreational fishermen will gather on February 24 on the steps of the U. S. Capitol from noon to 3PM to demonstrate against the unintended negative impacts of the Magnuson-Stevens Conservation and Management Act (MSA), the federal fisheries law which was revised in January of 2007.

Phone the Recreational Fishing Alliance (1-888-564-6732 or visit www.JoinRFA.org for more information.

LARGOPALOOZA MARCH 6

The Largopalooza Music & Arts Festival is scheduled for - where else but Key Largo(!) - at PonTunes Marina Tiki Bar & Grille at 107690 Overseas Hwy, south side of the new Jewfish Creek Bridge. Promising fun for the whole family, there will be games, arts & crafts, boat rides and more. $10 tickets, doors open at 2 PM, live music starts at 4 PM. 305-451-0864 is the number to call for more information.

RIVERDAY in MIAMI

The Miami River Commission reports that the 14th annual Miami Riverday Festival will be held on March 20 at its original location: the historic Lummus Park and the Lummus Landing waterfront in downtown Miami. For more information go to www.miamirivercommission.org.

DANIA FLEA MARKET

March 18-21 is the time for the 32nd annual Dania Marine Flea Market by Al Behrendt Enterprises. Contact phone is 954 920-7877 or dmfm@albehrendt.com. It's a great "nautical swap shop."

LADIES LET'S GO FISHING!

The "No Yelling School of Fishing" for ladies has scheduled a seminar for Naples, Florida for March 19-21. This will be a weekend of educational fishing activities at the Naples Harbour Yacht Club. Early registration is $99 thirty days or more in advance. Registration includes instruction, use of equipment, hands-on training, networking reception, silent auction , meals, goody bags and more. The Sunday Fishing Adventure, with tackle and bait provided, is additional.

Phone contact 954-475-9068. E-mail info@ladiesletsgofishing.com or visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Usually on Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for February, 2010 ...

3 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech, and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

4 Muttini Mingle, the floating "yappy hour", 5:30-8 pm, Center Court. Social for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws, 575-7599 for more information. Live music presented by Reconnections Band.

Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

5 The Inaugural Charlotte Harbor Regatta is Feb. 4-7, 2010. The four-day event will include races in various boat classes with up to 100 participating boats and more than 400 sailors. Spectators will be able to watch the action either by land or aboard a sightseeing boat. Those without boats can watch the racing action by hopping aboard a 90-minute cruise departing Fishermen's Village with King Fisher Fleet (www.kingfisherfleet.com), reservations (941) 639-0969. Fishermen's Village is the host sponsor and headquarters for the Regatta. Registration and additional information can be found on www.CharlotteHarborRegatta.com.

Live Music, Center Stage 5-9 pm with Singer Kim Jenkins.

6 Charlotte Harbor Regatta, One-design races in Charlotte Harbor, 10 am.

Live Music, Center Stage 5-9 pm with The Yard Dogs.

7 Charlotte Harbor Regatta, One-design races in Charlotte Harbor, 10 am.

Regatta Awards Ceremony Dinner, 3 pm at Fishermen's Village.

8 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am-1 pm, Center Stage.

Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

10 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am-1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

11 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

12 First Annual Museum Society Sweetheart Cruise aboard the Harbor Lady Dinner Boat. Hosted by Charlie Shoe, serenaded by Barbara Mendillo. Departs Village at 6 pm; returns at 9 pm. $50 per person. To make reservations, call 629-7278.

Reconnections Band performs variety/dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

13 Singer/Guitarist Michael Hirst, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

14 HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! Come to the Village with your significant other and enjoy NATIONAL SLIDE GUITAR CHAMPION, KRAIG KENNING IN CONCERT, 1-5 pm, Center Stage. Free.

16 EVENT: Fishermen's Village celebrates Mardi Gras! Live music on center stage by Leslie D. Saxman, 11:30-2 pm, and Singer/Guitarist Paul Cottrell, 4-7 pm. Enjoy music, food, shopping & fun!

17 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am-1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

18 Book Signing at Hooked On Books 11 am, with the Author of "Stinky the Cat".

Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

"A taste of the Banjo Bash", 5:30-7pm. Come and enjoy a preview of the Inaugural Harborside Banjo bash to be held at the Events Center February 19th & 20th. Banjoists will be in each section of the Village strumming away! Shop, dine, enjoy!

19 "A taste of the Banjo Bash", 12 noon-2 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy a preview of the Inaugural Harborside Banjo bash to be held at the Events Center February 19th & 20th.

The Top Hats Swing/Big Band Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

20 "A Taste of the Banjo Bash", 12 noon-2 pm, Center Stage.

Book Signing at Hooked on Books, 2-4 pm with Charles Sobczak, author of Six Mornings on Sanibel.

Carol & Johnnie perform country, variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

21 Singer/Songwriter Captain John Nolte, 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy songs and stories of the Sea and the Heart...

22 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Center Stage

24 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Pure Honey from Lee Bee's, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

25 Coffee Tasting "Happy Hour", 4-6 pm, Ornery Attitude Cafe. Call 639-2809 for more information.

26 Mickey's Limit performs variety/dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

27 Sean & Ramsi perform variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

28 Singer/Songwriter Captain John Nolte, 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy songs and stories of the Sea and the Heart...

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG's Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don't forget to glance back over previous months' updates every-now-and-then to see if there's anything still ongoing that you've missed ...

JAN 2010

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2009/10 - 27th - edition of the FCD has been published and is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-09-7 ... the cover has an aerial view of our Nation's Oldest City: St. Augustine.

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.

OR SAVE on NEXT EDITION EARLY ORDERS through this site's Ship's Store!

Our new 2010/2011 edition is well underway. It will be published in mid-February and carries the same low cover price ... $16. (Florida residents must add 6% sales tax.)

Paid-in-advance orders through this site's ship's store to U.S. addresses received here on this site or by e-mail, fax, postal mail or phone during January — on or before January 31 — will get free (Media Rate) shipping.

Any other ship's store items ordered with the new book will also be shipped mid-February at Media Rate (cost is apx. $ .50 for each additional item).

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

PORT MAYACA LOCK GUIDE WALL REPAIRS / USACOE Jacksonville Notice

As announced here in recent months, Port Mayaca Lock guide wall repairs are scheduled to continue through 19 February 2010. Delays are not expected.

Check December 2009 web update for complete information ...

The following two notices were received too late for our December update.

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

WHAT AND WHERE CONCERNING THE DREDGING PROJECT

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Fernandina Harbor/Kings Bay Entrance Channel, Cut 1N in Nassau County, FL and Camden County, GA.

2. Specific info about project: O&M dredging will occur in the federal channel from the jetties to approximately 7 nm seaward. Project limits are from Cut1N Sta 80+00 to Sta 470+00. Approximately 1.2 million cubic yards of material will be dredged. Placement locations include an Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Site (ODMDS) that is located approximately 14 miles south east of the project, the groin field adjacent to Fort Clinch, Fernandina Beach. Hopper dredge plants will be used. Dredging may occur anytime from 01 Dec 2009 through 15 March 2010.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. The project Description and Details may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District Advertised Solicitation website: specific link that directs to the particular project. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is C. Joy Spencer (Ops Manager) 904- 232-2978.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

NOTICE TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, Jacksonville District

27 November 2009

Maintenance Dredging, 43-ft and 34-ft Project, Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C,
Port Sutton Sparkman and Ybor Channels
Hillsborough County, Florida

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C, Port Sutton Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel and Ybor Channel.

2. The project consists of dredging the Tampa Harbor Hillsborough Bay Cut C Station 0+00 to Station 30+00 and Station 280+00 to Station 341+77.61 Port Sutton Channel Station 0+00 to Station 5.00 East Bay Channel, Upper Sparkman Channel Station 57+00 to Station 67+00, and Ybor Channel Station 0+00 to Station 43+07.81. Approximately 379,000 cubic yards of material will be dredged. A 16" cutter suction dredge and a clamshell dredge will be used to perform the dredging operations. The project will last approximately 142 days and is scheduled to commence on November 30, 2009.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. Additional information concerning this issue and others may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Mr. Millan A. Mora, Jacksonville, FL 904- 232-1454.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

signed

For Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

FWC UPDATES

Openings and Closings on
AMBERJACK, SNOOK, STONE CRAB, ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SPOTTED SEATROUT

We published the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's (FWC) seasonal closings and openings here in December. Check our December update or for details, visit www.myFWC.com.

BOAT SHOWS SCHEDULED

The NMMA has announced that Strictly Sail Miami Boat Show is moving to Sea Isle Marina to share exhibit space with the powerboat portion of the Miami Show in February. Show dates are February 11-15. More at www.miamiboatshow.com.

The Jacksonville Boat Show is scheduled for February 6 & 7 at Prime Osborne Convention Center.

Jack Allinson II, accredited marine surveyor and certified infrared thermographer, will be conducting a one-day seminar on February 6 in conjunction with the show. The seminar will be held from 8AM 'til 4:30PM; early registration cost is $450 and includes seminar presentation materials. For more visit www.allinson.com or phone 904-721-2177.

The CITY OF TAMPA's 2010 GASPARILLA PIRATE FEST

A tradition since 1904, the Gasparilla Pirate Fest is scheduled for January 30th, 2010.

Watch the Gasparilla Invasion as the tall-masted schooner enters Hillsborough Bay in the morning and plan to spend the day having brunch at the Convention Center, watching the Parade of the Pirates and attending (and dancing at) the Pirate Fest Street Festival. It looks like a fun-filled day. Watch local press and visit www.gasparillapiratefest.com for more.

OTHER SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES & EVENTS ...

Palm Beach Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival

The Palm Beach Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival has been scheduled for February 26-28 at the Palm Beach Kennel Club. Check next month's update for contact information.

History of Diving Museum

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

New events for January 2010 ....,

Free Safe Boating / Eco-Mariner Course
January 3, (afternoon) the Museum is hosting a free dual course under Captain Bruce Chambers and Rob Clift appropriate for anyone 14 years of age or older. Call the museum (number above) for time and to register or Capt. Bruce Chambers at 305-304-4623 or Rob Clift at 305-853-9050.

Museum Blood Drive
January 7, (1-4PM) Community Blood Centers of South Florida is hosting a blood drive at the Museum.

Hero's Birthday Celebration
January 12, (5-7PM) the Museum is proud to host a birthday celebration in honor of Matt Johnston's 33rd. (Matt is the first ventilator dependent individual in the world to dive in the ocean!) Meet him at the celebration. Free to members; non-members $25 and receive one year membership; couples, $45 and receive two one year memberships.

Diving Historian
January 20, (7PM) the museum's co-founder, Dr. Sally E. Bauer, will present "How Deep Sea Diving Changed the World."

FISHING / RFA

In an historic show of solidarity, commercial and recreational fishermen will gather on February 24 on the steps of the U. S. Capitol from noon to 3PM to demonstrate against the unintended negative impacts of the Magnuson Stevens Conservation and Management Act (MSA), the federal fisheries law which was revised in January of 2007.

Phone the Recreational Fishing Alliance (1-888-564-6732 or visit www.JoinRFA.org for more information.

KEY LARGO RESORTS MARINA / FLORIDA CLEAN MARINA

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Clean Boating Partnership have recognized Key Largo Resorts Marina as the 205th member of the Florida Clean Marina program, and the 21st in the Florida Keys. Congratulations to the three marinas taking part in winning the voluntary designation by demonstrating a commitment to protecting Florida's sensitive aquatic and marine ecosystems. The Key Largo Resorts Marina group includes the Holiday Inn, Ramada and Marina del Mar.

LADIES LET'S GO FISHING!

The "No Yelling School of Fishing" for ladies has scheduled a seminar for Naples, Florida for March 19-21. This will be a weekend of educational fishing activities at the Naples Harbour Yacht Club. Early registration is $99 thirty days or more in advance. Registration includes instruction, use of equipment, hands-on training, networking reception, silent auction , meals, goody bags and more. The Sunday Fishing Adventure, with tackle and bait provided, is additional.

Phone contact 954-475-9068. E-mail info@ladiesletsgofishing.com or visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Usually on Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS WEDNESDAYS from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for January, 2010 ...

1 New Year's Day - SHOP 12 NOON - 5 PM

Singer Kim Jenkins, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

2 Live music, center stage, 5-9 pm, featuring Carol & Johnnie

6 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Jellies and Preserves from Paradise Gardens, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information

Fishermen's Village Trolley Tour presented by Trolley Tours by Jo, 10 am - 12 Noon. Theme: "Marshalls & Madams". $15.00 per person. Call 639-8721 to reserve your seat!

7 Muttini Mingle, the floating "Yappy Hour", 5:30-8 pm, presented by Salty Paws. Social hour for people and their pets! Call 575-7599 for more information.

Reconnections Band performs variety and dance music 5:30-8 pm.

8 Shawn and Ramsi perform variety/dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

9 The Yard Dogs perform Florida Cajun music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

10 Singer/Songwriter Captain John Nolte, 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy songs and stories of the Sea and the Heart...

11 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group, 11:30 am - 1:00 p.m, Center Stage. Free.

Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

13 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Jellies and Preserves from Paradise Gardens, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information

14 CSO (Charlotte Symphony Orchestra) Jazz Combo, 6-8 pm, Music and Dancing in center court. And don't miss our "Taste of the Village"! Enjoy taste sampling ($1.00 increments) and select "Libations" (for nominal fees) from Village Restaurants. Charlotte High School's Musical Group "Charisma" will also perform from 5-6 pm on the village concourse. Singer/Songwriter Brenda Peck will lift your spirits and your soul with her beautiful vocals from 4-6 pm. Call 575-3067 for more information!

15 Book Signing 1-4 pm at Hooked on Books featuring Charlie Diemer, author of Pearl of Tao.

Mickey's Limit presents variety/dance music, 5-9 pm Center Stage.

16 "Destined" performs classics and dance music, 5-9 pm Center Stage.

20 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Jellies and Preserves from Paradise Gardens, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

Fishermen's Village Trolley Tour presented by Trolley Tour by Jo, 3-5 pm. Theme: "Beauty & Bounty...Nature's Gifts to Charlotte Harbor." $15.00 per person. Call 639-8721 to reserve your seat!

22 The Top Hats Swing/Big Band Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

23 Singer/Guitarist Michael Hirst, Center Stage, 5-9 pm

24 Singer/Songwriter Captain John Nolte, 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy songs and stories of the Sea and the Heart...

25 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Center Stage

27 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Jellies and Preserves from Paradise Gardens, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and music by Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

29 Reconnections Band performs variety, classic and dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage

Fine Arts & Crafts show, 10 am-8 pm. Contact Carmen Lambert, 941 379-0951, for more information.

30 "Beans & Seeds" performs classics and eclectic music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

31 Fine Arts & Crafts show, 12 Noon-6 pm. Contact Carmen Lambert, 941 379-0951, for more information.

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG's Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don't forget to glance back over previous months' updates every-now-and-then to see if there's anything still ongoing that you've missed ...

DEC

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2009/10 - 27th - edition of the FCD has been published and is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-09-7 ... the cover has an aerial view of our Nation's Oldest City: St. Augustine.

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.

SAVE on NEXT EDITION EARLY ORDERS through this site's Ship's Store!

Our new 2010/2011 edition is well underway. It will be published in mid-February and carries the same low cover price ... $16. (Florida residents must add 6% sales tax.)

Paid-in-advance ship's store orders to U.S. addresses received on this site or by e-mail, fax, postal mail or phone during January — on or before January 31 — will get free (Media Rate) shipping.

Any other ship's store items ordered with the new book will also be shipped mid-February at Media Rate (cost is apx. $ .50 for each additional item).

The current edition will be sent on all orders received during December unless otherwise specified.

PORT MAYACA LOCK GUIDE WALL REPAIRS per 21 AUGUST NOTE FOLLOWS: (Repeating in December 2009 Update)

1. Navigation interests are advised that Port Mayaca Lock guide walls are undergoing repairs during weekday operations Monday through Friday during the hours 0700-1700 from 10 August through 19 February 2010. Delays are not expected.

2. The work is being performed due to severe deterioration of the lock guide walls. The guide walls in their current state are a potential hazard to navigation. The work is being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

3. When traveling the Okeechobee Waterway, please wear your life jackets and be conscious of the wake you create and its impact on other boaters.

4. Additional information concerning Port Mayaca Lock and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact si the Port Mayaca Lock staff at 561 924-2858.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

William G. Zuttan

for Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

MARINE SERVICE OPEN in PALATKA

Tom Watson has announced that his Crystal Cove Marine (904-328-4000) remains in operation at The Moorings. The restaurant there has recently closed but the service area, boat ramp and fuel dock with gas and diesel remain open. Crystal Cove Marine Service recently won the local Best Marina Readers' Choice award for 2009. It's shown on Chart 2, north of Palatka, in the current FCD.

BAHAMA BARGAINS

As mentioned here recently, several Bahamas marinas with hotels are offering money-saving Winter Rates for visitors into January, 2010. Check it out at Bahamas.com/boating.

We've recently received special Press Releases from Abaco Beach Resort at Boat Harbour and Atlantis ...

In Abaco, they'll be having a special Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas Day Grand Buffet as well as a Boxing Day Beach Party on December 26. Also, you can ring in 2010 at Angler's Restaurant with live music and an exquisite holiday menu. Call for their Special Seasonal Packages (and airfares) at 1-800-468-4799.

Nassau's Atlantis Paradise Island suggests you phone 1-866-285-2684 to book their 4 nights for the price of 3 special (and others) by December 20.

FWC UPDATES

SPORT FISHING FOR AMBERJACK CLOSED IN GULF FEDERAL WATERS

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced that the recreational harvest and possession of greater amberjack in or from federal waters in the Gulf of Mexico is prohibited through December 31. For details, visit www.myFWC.com.

SNOOK SEASONS CLOSE IN DECEMBER

There are two snook harvest season closures coming up in December. The first snook closure starts on December 1 in all of Florida's Gulf of Mexico, Everglades National Park and Monroe County coastal and inland waters. The harvest season for snook will remain closed until March 1 in these areas.

All other Florida waters will close to the harvest of snook beginning on December 15. This includes all Atlantic coastal and inland waters, including Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River. The harvest season for snook will remain closed until February 1 in these areas.

Snook regulations apply to snook harvested within or without state waters, and no person hall possess any snook caught with or without the state during snook closed seasons.

These closed harvest seasons protect Florida's valuable snook populations during the colder months when snook are most vulnerable and help sustain and improve the fishery for the future.

STONE CRAB SEASON HAS OPENED

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announces that the commercial and recreational harvest season for stone crab claws in Florida has opened and remains open through May 15. For all the information on sizes, limits, etc., visit www.MyFWC.com/Rules (click on "Fishing - Saltwater").

FISHING FOR ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SPOTTED SEATROUT CLOSINGS

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced that the commercial and recreational harvest season for vermilion snapper in the Atlantic Ocean and spotted seatrout in South Florida closed on November 1.

Recreational harvest of Atlantic vermilion snapper will reopen on April 1, 2010.

For spotted seatrout, all harvest and possession is prohibited from through December 31 in all waters south of the Flagler-Volusia county line in the Atlantic and south of a line running due west from the westernmost point of Fred Howard Park Causeway which is 1.17 mi. south of the Pinellas-Pasco county line in the Gulf of Mexico. The recreational harvest of spotted seatrout will remain open until February in northeast and northwest Florida waters. More info available at MyFWC.com/Rules.

BOAT SHOWS SCHEDULED

The recently expanded and renamed St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show is set for December 3 - 6 at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater & Albert Whitted Park in downtown St. Pete. For more on this visit www.showmanagement.com/st_petersburg _power_sailboat_show/event/

The NMMA has announced that Strictly Sail Miami Boat Show is moving to Sea Isle Marina to share exhibit space with the powerboat portion of the Miami Show in February. Show dates are February 11-15. More at www.miamiboatshow.com

The Jacksonville Boat Show is scheduled for February 6 & 7 at Prime Osborne Convention Center.

Jack Allinson II, accredited marine surveyor and certified infrared thermographer, will be conducting a one-day seminar on February 6 in conjunction with the show. The seminar will be held from 8AM 'til 4:30PM; early registration cost is $450 and includes seminar presentation materials. For more visit www.allinson.com or phone 904-721-2177.

The CITY OF TAMPA's 2010 GASPARILLA PIRATE FEST

A tradition since 1904, the Gasparilla Pirate Fest is scheduled for January 30th, 2010.

Watch the Gasparilla Invasion as the tall-masted schooner enters Hillsborough Bay in the morning and plan to spend the day having brunch at the Convention Center, watching the Parade of the Pirates and attending (and dancing at) the Pirate Fest Street Festival. It looks like a fun-filled day. Watch local press and visit www.gasparillapiratefest.com for more.

OTHER SCHEDULED ACTIVITIES & EVENTS ...

Palm Beach Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival

The Palm Beach Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival has been scheduled for February 26-28 at the Palm Beach Kennel Club. Check next month's update for contact information.

History of Diving Museum

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

Environmental Learning Center

The ELC, located at 255 Live Oak Dr., Vero Beach offers a variety of canoe excursions led by volunteer guides. For more information on the trips visit www.DiscoverELC.org or phone 772-589-5050.

NEW DOCKS IN DOWNTOWN WEST PALM BEACH

The City of West Palm Beach has added new docks downtown, inviting non-commercial boats to tie up for a visit to the city. Dockage is free. Pedestrians, too, can enjoy having a place to walk or rest with a great view. (It's a good lunch-stop for folks bringing their own!) The middle of the three docks has unique underwater ecosystems, planters with native plants and an artificial oyster reef, seating areas and umbrellas. Usage is free to all from 5 AM 'til midnight daily. The project beautifies and re-energizes the entire downtown waterfront from Banyan Boulevard to Lakeview Avenue.

NEW ALBIN 31 AT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS

Southwest Florida Yachts, based in North Fort Myers, has added a stylish and comfortable Island Packet 31 sloop to its charter fleet in Punta Gorda at Burnt Store Marina. The new boat is ideal for a family of four or two couples, and charterers get extra Cruising Days through 2010, in celebration of the company's 25th Anniversary. Visit www.swfyachts,com or call 800-262-7939 for all the details on this and their other charters and cruising school information.

NEW WEST MARINE

West Marine has announced the grand opening of its new store December 5-6 in Marathon. Doors open at 8 AM and there will be gifts and prize giveaways. Five percent of December 5 sales will be donated to Turtle Hospital. The new store is at 2019 Overseas Highway, next to the old location and twice the size. Visit Turtle Hospital online at www.turtlehospital.org.

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE CALENDAR

Fishermen’s Village is the Punta Gorda marina with shopping mall. It's located off Marion Ave. at 1200 West Retta Esplanade. Extended seasonal hours for shopping are from 10 AM – 8 PM Mondays through Saturdays and 12 noon - 6 PM Sundays. Holiday Shopping Hours have begun: 10 AM - 8 PM.

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS EVERY WEDNESDAY from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for December, 2009 ...

2 Fishermen's Village Trolley Tour presented by Trolley Tours by Jo, 10 am - 12 Noon. Theme: "Marshalls & Madams". $15.00 per person. Call 639-8721 to reserve your seat!

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

3 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information.

EVENT: Muttini Mingle, The Floating "Yappy" Hour, 5:30-8 p.m., Center Court. Sponsored by Salty Paws. Call 575-7599 for more information.

EVENT: "Coffee Tasting Happy Hour", 4-6 pm at Ornery Attitude Cafe. Come join in the fun of roasting and brewing your very own Coffee! Call 639-2809 for more information.

Singer/Songwriter GARY GRAY in concert, 6-8 pm, Center Stage.

4 EVENT: King Fisher Lighted Canal Cruises, December 4th-31st. A Punta Gorda Tradition! Cruises depart 3 times
nightly from Fishermen's Village. Call 941-639-0969 for rates/reservations.

Mickey's Limit performs variety/dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

EVENT: Harpoon Harry's presents the CHIPPENDALES SHOW 8 pm. Call 637-1177 for ticket information.

5 Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption will be at Fishermen's Village in front of Salty Paws, from 1-3 pm. They will be providing information on adoption and rescue services. For more information call: Betty Libby at 941-629-9752.

EVENT: Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce Lighted Boat Parade. Prominent viewing from Fishermen's Village. Call 941 639-3720 for more information.Book Signing 2-4 pm at Hooked on Books with Tony Gillen, author of "Getting on the Upside of Hurricanes".

VILLA OPEN HOUSE! While at the village enjoying the festivities, be sure to stop by Village Property Center in the third section of the Village and ask about taking a tour of one of our beautiful villa vacation rentals located on the second floor of the Village.

Visits with Santa Claus, 4-8 pm. Santa will be in Center Court to discuss your "wish list"! Bring your own camera to capture the moment. Call 941 639-8721 for more information.

Live Entertainment featuring Punta Gorda's Own JIM MORRIS, tropical rock music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

6 Singer Kim Jenkins, 3-6 pm, Center Stage.

7 EVENT: Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony, 5 pm, Center Court. Annual remembrance and salute to the men and women of Pearl Harbor. Call Commandant Hank Mastowski, 941-764-8286 for more information.

8 Meadow Park Elementary School Chorus performs Christmas program, 7 pm, Center Court. Free Admission.

9 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

10 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked on Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information.

EVENT: "Coffee Tasting Happy Hour", 4-6 pm at Ornery Attitude Cafe. Come join in the fun of roasting and brewing your very own Coffee! Call 639-2809 for more information.

Special concert featuring uplifting and encouraging music of the season by Singer BRENDA PECK, 5-7 pm, Center Stage. Free.

11 Live entertainment with JOHN RENO, trop rock music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

Book Signing, 1-3 pm at Hooked on Books with Don MacLean, author of "Someday Honey".

12 Visits with Santa Claus, 1-5 pm. Santa will be in Center Court to discuss your "wish list"! Bring your own camera to capture the moment. Call 941-639-8721 for more information.

EVENT: Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 10 am-8 pm. Fine Art, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, florals and much more. Free
admission, free parking. For more information, call 941 379-0951.

Hooked on Books presents their favorite authors, James and Sarah Kaserman, 11;30 am - 2:30 pm featuring their pirate attire, and pirate books including Christmas Trains and How the Pirates Saved Christmas.

VILLA OPEN HOUSE! While at the village enjoying the festivities, be sure to stop by Village Property Center in the third section of the Village and ask about taking a tour of one of our beautiful villa vacation rentals located on the second floor of the Village!

Live entertainment with Magen & Mike "Unforgettable", 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

13 EVENT: Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 12 Noon - 6pm. Fine Art, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, florals and much more. Free admission, free parking. For more information, call 941 379-0951.

Deep Creek Community Church Worship Band Christmas Concert, 4 pm, Center Stage. Free. Call 456-0903 for more information.

14 Four Leaf Strummers perform banjo favorites, 11;30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Center Stage. Free.

Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by the Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

16 Fishermen's Village Trolley Tour presented by Trolley Tours by Jo, 3 pm-5pm. Theme: "Beauty & Bounty"...Nature's Gifts to Charlotte Harbor. $15.00 per person. Call 639-8721 to reserve your seat!

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

17 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information.

EVENT: "Coffee Tasting Happy Hour", 4-6 pm at Ornery Attitude Cafe. Come join in the fun of roasting and brewing your very own Coffee! Call 639-2809 for more information.

Special Christmas Concert by Peace River Baptist Church Choir, 7 pm, Center Court. Free

18 Jimmy Jay and the Jaymen, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Oldies, Variety and Dance Music. Free

19 Visits with Santa Claus, 1-5 pm. Santa will be in Center Court to discuss your "wish list" Bring your own camera to capture the moment. Call 941 639-8721 for more information.

Book Signing at Hooked on Books featuring Willie Wiggins, author of "The Last Chapter".

The Yard Dogs in concert performing Florida Cajun Music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

20 Book Signing at Hooked on Books, 1-3 pm with P.D. LaFleur, author of "Disturbing the Peace."

Singer Kim Jenkins, 3-6 pm, Center Stage.

23 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

24 Christmas Eve, shop 10 am- 5 pm.

25 MERRY CHRISTMAS! VILLAGE CLOSED

26 EVENT: Salty Paws hosts a pet vaccination clinic by the Animal Health Services of Sarasota 12 Noon-1 pm, Center Court. First come, first served. Nominal fees. For more information, call 575-7599.

Live entertainment, 5-9 pm, Center Court, featuring THE TOP HATS performing swing/big band music. Free.

30 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information.

Harbor Lady will offer a New Year's Eve Party cruise departing at 10:00 p.m. Cost is $50.00 per person which includes admission, party favors, and a champagne toast at midnight. The boat will view the fireworks over Charlotte Harbor, then return to port at approximately 1:00 a.m. For information and reservations, contact King Fisher Fleet at 639-0969

31 EVENT: NEW YEAR'S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA, 8 pm - Midnight. Free admission! Live music with Sounds of the Virgin Islands Band, Luis the Balloon Man, Airbrush Art for Face and Body. Fabulous Fireworks display at 12:01 a.m.! Call 941 639-8721 for more details.

VILLA OPEN HOUSE! While at the village enjoying the festivities, be sure to stop by Village Property Center in the third section of the Village and ask about taking a tour of one of our beautiful villa vacation rentals located on the second floor of the Village!

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG's Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don't forget to glance back over previous months' updates every-now-and-then to see if there's anything still ongoing that you've missed ...

NOV

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2009/10 - 27th - edition of the FCD has been published and is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-09-7 ... the cover has an aerial view of our Nation's Oldest City: St. Augustine.

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.

PORT MAYACA LOCK GUIDE WALL REPAIRS per 21 AUGUST NOTE FOLLOWS: (Repeating in November 2009 Update)

1. Navigation interests are advised that Port Mayaca Lock guide walls are undergoing repairs during weekday operations Monday through Friday during the hours 0700-1700 from 10 August through 19 February 2010. Delays are not expected.

2. The work is being performed due to severe deterioration of the lock guide walls. The guide walls in their current state are a potential hazard to navigation. The work is being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

3. When traveling the Okeechobee Waterway, please wear your life jackets and be conscious of the wake you create and its impact on other boaters.

4. Additional information concerning Port Mayaca Lock and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact si the Port Mayaca Lock staff at 561 924-2858.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

William G. Zuttan

for Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

NEW MIAMI MOORING FIELD OFF DINNER KEY MARINA

The City of Miami's new Mooring Field is set to open at 10 AM on Monday, November 2 off Dinner Key Marina at 3400 Pan American Drive. The new moorings will provide transient and liveaboard customers while protecting seagrass beds and other aquatic vegetation.

The 225-vessel facility has a new pumpout vessel and high-quality steel helix anchors to accommodate vessels up to 40-feet. The mooring buoy has a swivel with an underwater float to allow a vessel to rotate with the wind and tide without scraping the bay bottom.

Upland amenities at the existing facility that are available to city residents and visiting boaters include a Harbormaster's Office & Customer Lounge, restrooms, showers, laundry, dinghy dock with customer shuttle service, vehicle and bicycle parking, trash pickup and recycling.

Applications for moorings are taken on a first come, first served basis and can be completed online at www.miami-marinas.com or in person at Dinner Key Marina. Phone is 305-579-6950. Only seaworthy vessels with proper title and registration will be accepted.

MARITIME MUSEUM NEWS

The Maritime & Classic Boat Museum is now in its new home — with its new name — at Indian Riverside Park, Jensen Beach. It has moved from the South Fork of the St. Lucie River on Kanner Highway in Stuart where it was known as the Maritime & Yachting Museum. The Gallery is now in the Frances Langford Pavilion at 1707 NE Indian River Drive and its antique and classic boats are on display on the lawn there.

A party to celebrate the Grand Opening is set for Friday, November 13 at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $75 before November 2nd and $100 after. The party is called The Real McCoy Rum Runner Party and it ends when the rum runs out!

HISTORICAL NOTE: Bill McCoy garnered fame during Prohibition as the "King of Rum Row." Boat-builder turned rum-running-outlaw, he ran one of the most lucrative liquor smuggling businesses and was known as the "honest rum runner" whose whiskey was pure and genuine, hence the term "Real McCoy."

For tickets or more information — phone number has not changed: 772-692-1234; MAIL: PO Box 275, Jensen Beach, FL 34958 or pick up at the Museum.

FWC UPDATES

BOATING LEGISLATION PROTECTS PEOPLE AND RESOURCES

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced that new laws aimed at boating safety and protecting natural resources are in effect.

Following is a partial list of subjects mentioned in an October 9 Press Release. For complete information about these and other boating requirements visit MyFWC.com/Boating.

1) BUI.

2) Boating safety identification card requirement for persons born on or after Jan. 1, 1988.

3) Placement and use of a waterway markers.

4) Possession of or use of nonconforming or unapproved gasoline containers, transportation, ventilation, etc.

5) Laws regarding titling, numbering and registration.

6) Required notification of damage to coral reefs.

SPORT FISHING FOR AMBERJACK CLOSED IN GULF FEDERAL WATERS

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announces that the recreational harvest and possession of greater amberjack in or from federal waters in the Gulf of Mexico is prohibited through December 31. For details, visit www.myFWC.com.

STONE CRAB SEASON HAS OPENED

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announces that the commercial and recreational harvest season for stone crab claws in Florida has opened and remains open through May 15. For all the information on sizes, limits, etc., visit www.MyFWC.com/Rules (click on "Fishing - Saltwater").

FISHING FOR ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SPOTTED SEATROUT CLOSE NOVEMBER 1.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announces that the commercial and recreational harvest season for vermilion snapper in the Atlantic Ocean and spotted seatrout in South Florida will close on November 1.

Recreational harvest of Atlantic vermilion snapper will reopen on April 1, 2010.

For spotted seatrout, all harvest and possession is prohibited from November 1 through December 31 in all waters south of the Flagler-Volusia county line in the Atlantic and south of a line running due west from the westernmost point of Fred Howard Park Causeway which is 1.17 mi. south of the Pinellas-Pasco county line in the Gulf of Mexico. The recreational harvest of spotted seatrout will remain open until February in northeast and northwest Florida waters. More info available at MyFWC.com/Rules.

DEP UPDATES

HUTCHINSON ISLAND MARRIOTT BEACH RESORT & MARINA,
SUNSET BAY MARINA & ANCHORAGE and
HYATT REGENCY MARINA
GET CLEAN MARINA DESIGNATIONs

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, together with the Clean Boating Partnership, recently announced the Hutchinson Island Marriott Beach Resort & Marina, Sunset Bay Marina and Anchorage and Hyatt Regency Sarasota Marina as the 195th, 200th and 202nd members of the Florida Clean Marina program. The program recognizes marinas and boatyards for their commitment to the protection of Florida's natural resources.

Our annual FCD identifies all such marinas and boatyards that welcome cruising people and their boats with the little Pelicans sprinkled on our charts. We shall continue to do so in the new, now in progress 2010/2011 edition.

DUNEDIN CAUSEWAY BRIDGE REPAIR

As announced here last month, Pinellas County's six-month rehab project of the Dunedin Causeway Bridge has begun. Intermittent daytime lane closures and two nighttime bridge closures are planned for vehicles.

Commercial vessel and recreational watercraft operators are urged to check U.S. Coast Guard advisories for bridge closures, vertical-clearance reduction and channel restriction notices and safety zone enforcements.

BOAT SHOWS SCHEDULED

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show runs through November 2 at six locations.
Visit www.showmanagement.com for all the info.

The recently expanded and renamed St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show is returning again December 3 - 6 to the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater & Albert Whitted Park in downtown St. Pete. For more on this one visit www.showmanagement.com/st_petersburg _power_sailboat_show/event/

Looking toward 2010, the NMMA has announced that Strictly Sail Miami Boat Show is moving to Sea Isle Marina to share exhibit space with the powerboat portion of the Miami Show in February. More on all of this as time grows nearer.

LOGGERHEAD CLUB & MARINA NAMED PRESENTING SPONSOR OF THE PALM BEACH HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE

It's almost time to start thinking about the Christmas-time tradition of Boat Parades in Florida! An October 13 press release from the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County announcing Loggerhead Club & Marina's sponsorship of the Palm Beach County parade — scheduled for Saturday, December 5 — reminds us all that Holidays are coming up! Keep an eye on local press for a Christmas parade near you

... And Beyond that, on January 30th ...

The CITY OF TAMPA SCHEDULES THE 2010 GASPARILLA PIRATE FEST!

A tradition since 1904, the Gasparilla Pirate Fest is scheduled for January 30th, 2010.

Watch the Gasparilla Invasion as the tall-masted schooner enters Hillsborough Bay in the morning and plan to spend the day having brunch at the Convention Center, watching the Parade of the Pirates and attending (and dancing at) the Pirate Fest Street Festival. It looks like a fun-filled day. Watch local press and visit www.gasparillapiratefest.com for more.

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM ACTIVITIES

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

NOVEMBER EVENTS STILL SCHEDULED INCLUDE ...

The Seven Seas Cruising Association has scheduled their annual meeting in Melbourne for November 13 and 14. Web address for more information is www.ssca.org.

The "No Yelling" fishing school — Ladies Let's Go Fishing! — for ladies' next scheduled seminar is in Islamorada, November 13-15. Check the web site: www.ladiesletsgofishing.com for more information.

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE CALENDAR

Fishermen’s Village is the Punta Gorda marina with shopping mall. It's located off Marion Ave. at 1200 West Retta Esplanade. Extended seasonal hours for shopping are from 10 AM – 8 PM Mondays through Saturdays and 12 noon - 6 PM Sundays. Holiday Shopping Hours begin day-after Thanksgiving, 10 - 8 PM.

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.
( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

SPECIAL EVENTS SCHEDULED FOR NOVEMBER INCLUDE:

MUSTANG CLUB of CHARLOTTE COUNTY's "Roundup at Fishermen's Village" 9-3, on Sunday, the 1st; All Mustang and Ford car owners invited!
FALL-PALOOZA AND HEALTH FAIR, 10-6 on Saturday, the 14th;
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, 5:30-9 PM on Saturday, the 21st;
and singer-songwriter KRAIG KENNING entertains from 1 - 5 PM on the 29th.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS EVERY WEDNESDAY from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for November, 2009 ...

1 EVENT: MUSTANG CLUB OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY CAR SHOW, 11 am-3 pm, Village parking lot. Over 100 cars spanning the decades! Call 941 276-4865 for more information. Free admission.

4 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941-575-8188 for information.

5 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information.

EVENT: Muttini Mingle, The Floating "Yappy" Hour, 5:30-8 pm, Center Court. Sponsored by Salty Paws. Call 575-7599 for more information.

Singer/Songwriter Gary Gray, 6-8 pm, Center Stage.

6 Jimmy Jay & the Jaymen perform oldies, variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

7 EVENT: Alzheimer's Memory Walk, presented by the Alzheimer's Association, 9:00 a.m., Center Court. Contact 727 578-2558 for more information.

Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption will be at Fishermen's Village in front of Salty Paws, from 1-3 pm. They will be providing information on adoption and rescue services. For more information call: Betty Libby at 941-629-9752.

EVENT: A Christmas to Remember Fundraiser for Military Heritage Museum. 15% of each purchase on this date will be given as a donation to the Military Heritage Museum in Fishermen's Village.

EVENT: Visiting Nursing Assn. of Southwest Florida Flu Clinic, 10 am-1 pm, first section of Village. Flu and Pneumonia shots for nominal fees. Call 1-866-521-4848 for more information.

Country Music Concert featuring Nashville favorite CHRIS MACARTHUR, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

8 EVENT: Peace River Center for Writers "Celebrate Authors" Event, 12 noon-5 pm. Come meet and greet area Authors and learn about their latest books!

9 Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

11 EVENT: VETERANS DAY Observance at The Military Heritage Museum, 3-6 pm featuring "War Tales". Call 941 575-9002 for more information.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

12 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked on Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information.

A Christmas To Remember celebrates their 1 year Grand Opening Celebration, 5:30-7 pm. Public is invited to attend. (Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be the honored guests.) Call 575-9727 for more details.

13 "Destined" performs variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

14 EVENT: Fall Palooza and Health Expo, 10 am-6 pm presented by All-Pro Home Health, LLC. Come visit with Health and Wellness experts in the industry, take part in free health screenings, register for prizes and enjoy live entertainment throughout the day! Free admission. Call 941 258-3355 for more information.

Live entertainment by Magen & Mike "Unforgettable", 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Variety/dance music. Free

16 Four Leaf Strummers perform banjo favorites, 11:30 am-1:00 pm, Center Stage. Free.

18 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

19 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 a.m. Call 637-8002 for more information

"Coconut Radio" performs, 5-7 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy laid back Island rhythms and vocals. Free.
20 Live entertainment featuring Punta Gorda's own JIM MORRIS, tropical rock music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

21 EVENT: "Lighting of the Village"! Festivities begin at 5:30 pm. You are invited to join us as we kick off the Holiday Season in Grand Style! Events include: Lee County Pipes & Drums, 5:30 p.m., Luis The Balloon Man, Airbrush Art for Face & Body, Complimentary Refreshments, Pictures with Santa (bring your camera!), live Music & Dancing with Sounds of the Virgin Islands Band, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. View beautiful holiday decor in stores and throughout the Village. Over one million lights on display! Call 941 639-8721 for more information!

25 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

26 HAPPY THANKSGIVING! VILLAGE CLOSED

27 EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS BEGIN! SHOP 10 AM-8 PM TODAY!

Carol and Johnnie perform oldies, country classics and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

28 EVENT: Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Parade at Fishermen's Village! Parade begins at 6 pm. For more information call Doug Buuck 941-626-6627

Visits with Santa Claus, 1-5 pm. Santa will be in Center Court to discuss your "wish list"! Bring your own camera to capture the moment. Call 941 639-8721 for more information.

Live entertainment featuring JOHN RENO, trop rock music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

29 EVENT: NATIONAL SLIDE GUITAR CHAMPION KRAIG KENNING IN CONCERT, 1-5 PM, CENTER STAGE. FREE ADMISSION!
Visit Kraig's website: www.kraigkenning.com

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG's Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don't forget to glance back over previous months' updates every-now-and-then to see if there's anything still ongoing that you've missed ...

OCT

The knowledgeable and nature-loving captain has recently been named Marina Manager at the resort. Before settling into beautiful south Florida marina life, Capt. Cullen ran a 100-ton dinner vessel in Long Island Sound and New York City.

NEWS FROM BOATU.S. — BOAT OWNERS ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES

ANCHORING INFORMATION AVAILABLE

The Boat Owners Association of the United States (better known as BoatU.S.) invites Florida Cruisers to visit their web site to read and reprint their Anchoring Information for Florida Cruisers. This clarifies several problems brought about by local and state laws differing, all of which should be legally cleared up by October 1.

The association recommends that " ... boaters carry this sheet with them when cruising in Florida" as some local officials could be unaware of changes.

Visit: BoatUS.com/gov

REMINDER ON KIDS' LIFE JACKET LOANER PROGRAM

The Boat US Foundation offers a no-cost Kids' Life Jacket Loaner Program giving boaters and parents the opportunity to borrow a child's life jacket for the day or weekend. When you stop by one of the 500 locations

Visit: BoatUS.com (Go to Boating Safety)

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

The Environmental Learning Center, 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach has announced release of their new program guide for the 2009-2010 season. The colorful catalog provides info on the educational and entertaining programs for all — young children, older kids and families and adults. Activities run from exploration of the lagoon and the land around it to a six-part lecture evening series. Learning experiences include gardening, tasting delicious locally grown products, camping and more.

Pick up a guide in the Nature Nook, ELC gift shop or call 772-589-5050. Most programs carry a modest fee and reservations should be made by calling that same number.

More information on the web site: www.DiscoverELC.org

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM ACTIVITIES

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

NOVEMBER EVENTS STILL SCHEDULED INCLUDE ...

The Seven Seas Cruising Association has scheduled their annual meeting in Melbourne for November 13 and 14. Web address for more information is www.ssca.org.

The "No Yelling" fishing school — Ladies Let's Go Fishing! — for ladies' next scheduled seminar is in Islamorada, November 13-15.Check the web site: www.ladiesletsgofishing.com for more information.

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE CALENDAR

Fishermen’s Village is the Punta Gorda marina with shopping mall. It's located off Marion Ave. at 1200 West Retta Esplanade.
Extended seasonal hours for shopping are from 10 AM – 8 PM Mondays through Saturdays and 12 noon - 6 PM Sundays.

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.
( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at
941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and
events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS EVERY WEDNESDAY from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for October, 2009 ...

1 EVENT: Muttini Mingle, The Floating "Yappy" Hour, 5:30-8 pm. Presented by Salty Paws. Socialize in center court with other pet owners and their pets! Free. Call 575-7599 for more information.

Singer/Songwriter MICHAEL HIRST performs 5-7 pm, Center Stage.

Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 am. Call 637-8002 for more information.

2 Jimmy Jay & The Jaymen perform oldies, variety and dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

3 EVENT: "THINK PINK ON THE PIER" an all day breast cancer awareness event presented by Fishermen's Village and Harborstyle Magazine. Activities include: Symposium presented by American Cancer Society, Pink Progressive Tea Party, Pink T-Shirts, Pink Pets On Parade, Pink Paint on The Pier (pink toes for the cure), bra decorating contest, Memorial Tree, Parade for survivors/memorial walk. Live Concert featuring Nashville favorite, Chris MacArthur performing his hit single "Tough Enough to Wear Pink", 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free Admission. Call 639-8721 for more details.

Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption will be at Fishermen's Village, in front of Salty Paws from 1-3 pm. They will be providing information on adoption and rescue services. For more information call: Betty Libby at 941-629-9752.

EVENT: Salty Paws hosts a pet vaccination clinic by the Animal Health Services of Sarasota 12 Noon-1pm, Center Court. First come, first served. Nominal fees. For more information, call 575-7599.

4 Singer KIM JENKINS performs classic hits of the 60's, 70's & 80's Rock, 2-4 pm, Center Stage.

7 EVENT: Punta Gorda Mural and History Tour, presented by Fishermen's Village and Trolley Tours by Jo, 10 am. Cost is $15 per person. Call 639-8721 to make reservations.

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

8 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 am. Call 637-8002 for more information.

9 Live Entertainment Center Court 5-9 pm featuring THE TOP HATS, swing/big band music. Free

10 EVENT: FISHERMEN'S VILLAGE 1st ANNUAL "OKTOBERFEST'! Fun activities for the entire family, including East Elementary School PTO Pumpkin Patch, Portrait Creations/Caricatures by Illustrator Karin O'Connell, Schutzhund Demonstrations beginning at 10 am, Sally Jones Elementary School Chorus, 11 am, Center Court. Live Music and Dance, 4-8 pm, Center Court featuring the Europa Band and the Gulf Coast Enzianer Schuhplattler Verein. Free admission.

11 Singer KIM JENKINS performs classic hits of the 60's, 70's & 80's Rock, 2-4 pm, Center Stage.

12 Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by the Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

13 Military Heritage Museum presents new display celebrating the activation of 332nd Fighter Group at Tuskegee. Call 575-9002 for more information.

14 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

15 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 am. Call 637-8002 for more information.

16 EVENT: Fishermen's Village Fall Boat Show, 10 am-6pm. In water and on land. Free admission. Large and small vessels on display by area boat retailers. Call 1 877 470-2825 for more information.

Live Entertainment featuring Punta Gorda's own JIM MORRIS in concert "tropical rock music", 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

17 EVENT: Anglers for Conservation's Hook Kids on Fishing Program, 11 am-2 pm, Center Court, Fishermen's Village. Kids 6 to 16 are welcome along with their parents. The first 100 registered kids get a free rod, reel and tackle box. There will be clinics on casting, conservation, fishing safety, knot tying, catch and release tactics, along with fishing with professional guides. PRE REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY CALLING CAPTAIN RALPH ALLEN, KING FISHER FLEET AT 941-639-0969.

EVENT: Fishermen's Village Fall Boat Show, 10 am-6pm. In water and on land. Free admission. Large and small vessels on display by area boat retailers. Call 1 877 470-2825 for more information.

Live Music featuring Magen & Mike "Unforgettable", 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

18 Singer KIM JENKINS performs classic hits of the 60's, 70's & 80's Rock, 2-4 pm, Center Stage.

EVENT: Fishermen's Village Fall Boat Show 12 Noon-5pm. In water and on land. Free admission. Large and small vessels on display by area boat retailers. Call 1 877 470-2825 for more information.

21 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

22 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked on Books, 11 am. Call 637-8002 for more information.

23 Live Entertainment featuring music by "Destined" 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Variety/dance music. Free

24 EVENT:
Salty Paws 4th Annual Ghouls and Drools Barktoberfest
Join Salty Paws on Saturday, October 24, from 11:30 am-1:00 pm. Contests Start at 11:30 am sharp in Center Court of Fishermen's Village. Barktoberfest is to raise money for The Charlotte County Animal Welfare League, and show off your pet in its bow-wow gear and share a fun filled day with family and friends! Pre-registration is a $5.00 donation in advance, and $9.00 donation on the day of the event, accompanied by an item from AWL's wish list. Wish list available at Salty Paws and SaltyPaws.com. Prizes awarded for:
1.) Funniest Pet Costume
2.) Scariest Pet Costume
3.) Most Original Pet Costume
4.) Most Original Human Costume
5.) Pet Owner Look-A-Like Costume
6.) Best Costume Bought at Salty Paws!
Have fun with Bobbing for Bones, Doggie Doughnut Jump, Tricks for Treats and More! Registration forms are available at Salty Paws in Fishermen's Village, & SaltyPaws.com. Call 941 575-7599 for more information.

EVENT: Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 10 am-6pm. Fine Art, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, florals and much more. Free admission, free parking. For more information, call 941 379-0951.

Live Entertainment center stage featuring Singer/Songwriter, Guitarist John Reno, trop rock music, 5-9 pm. Free

25 EVENT: Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 12 Noon-5pm. Fine Art, ceramics, pottery, jewelry, florals and much more. Free admission, free parking. For more information, call 941 379-0951.

EVENT: Harpoon Harry's Kid's Day Halloween Party, 12 Noon-4 pm. Capt. Jack Magic Show, Juggles The Clown, Costume Contest, Crafts & Games, Treats for All! Dress to impress! Call 637-1177 for more information.

28 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

29 Storytime and Crafts at Hooked On Books, 11 am. Call 637-8002 for more information.

30 Mickey's Limit performs variety/dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

31 Harpoon Harry's Adult Halloween Party. Costume Contest for scariest, sexiest, group, funny, and most original. Call 637-1177 for more information.

The Yard Dogs perform Florida Cajun music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG's Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don't forget to glance back over previous months' updates every-now-and-then to see if there's anything still ongoing that you've missed ...

SEP

HOW TO FIND THE CURRENT FCD

The 2009/10 - 27th - edition of the FCD has been published and is available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere. If your favorite store doesn't have it, please have them get in touch with us! They can e-mail us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168. The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-09-7 ... the cover has an aerial view of our Nation's Oldest City: St. Augustine.

Besides the FCD, Our SHIP’S STORE has other inventory of interest to cruisers, including books and videos and a few DVDs. Take a look! This web site is secure but your orders may be faxed (954-462-8168) with credit card billing information if you prefer. No CODs.

UPDATE FOLLOWS ON OKEECHOBEE LOCK CLOSINGS & OPENINGS;OTHER NOTICES FROM COE

Moore Haven Lock has closed and remains closed 'til September 3.

W. P. Franklin Lock is again open — earlier than the scheduled August 26 date.

The waterway is open on both ends, as usual, but there can be no complete crossings 'til after that September 3 re-opening! As always, remember to call the Clewiston office: 863-983-8101 before planning any crossings to check on conditions.

The Rim Route remains closed and reopening is not expected any time soon.

For information on the Okeechobee visit the web site at www.saj.usace.army.mil and select NAVIGATION BULLETINS AND LOCK CLOSURE INFORMATION or contact the US Army Corps of Engineers South Florida Operations Office at 863-983-8101.

PORT MAYACA LOCK GUIDE WALL REPAIRS per 21 AUGUST NOTE FOLLOWS:

1. Navigation interests are advised that Port Mayaca Lock guide walls are undergoing repairs during weekday operations Monday through Friday during the hours 0700-1700 from 10 August through 19 February 2010. Delays are not expected.

2. The work is being performed due to severe deterioration of the lock guide walls. The guide walls in their current state are a potential hazard to navigation. The work is being funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

3. When traveling the Okeechobee Waterway, please wear your life jackets and be conscious of the wake you create and its impact on other boaters.

4. Additional information concerning Port Mayaca Lock and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact si the Port Mayaca Lock staff at 561 924-2858.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

William G. Zuttan

for Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

17 AUGUST NOTE FOLLOWS:

MAINTENANCE DREDGING, 33-ft. PROJECT, PALM BEACH HARBOR
PALM BEACH COUNTY, FLORIDA

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating the Intracoastal Waterway from Peanut Island to the Port of Palm Beach, FL.

2. The project consists of dredging from the Palm Beach Harbor entrance channel, settling basins, Cut-1, Cut-2 and the North and South Turning Basins. An ocean certified hopper dredge will be used to perform the dredging operations. The work also includes endangered species observer/monitoring, sea turtle trawling and turbidity monitoring. All material removed during this event shall be placed in the Nearshore beach disposal area south of the Entrance channel jetty. The project will last approximately 70 days and is scheduled to commence on August 17, 2009.

3. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the rea due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to the operation, and large equipment working in and along the waterway.

4. ... Additional information regarding this issue and others may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District website: www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. US Army Corps of Engineers point of contact is Mr. Allan Morris, Jacksonville, FL 904-232-2258.

FOR THE COMMANDER

(signature)

for Jim W. Jeffords Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

FWC UPDATES

SNOOK SEASON OPENS SEPTEMBER 1

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has announced that the recreational harvest season for snook opens in all Florida waters September 1.

Anglers may keep one snook between 28 and 33 inches total length daily in Gulf of Mexico, Everglades National Park and Monroe County coastal and inland waters until the season closes in these areas on December 1.

In coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean and in inland waters, including Lake Okeechobee and the Kissimmee River, anglers may take one snook between 28 and 32 inches total length daily until the season closes in these areas on December 15.

Licensed saltwater anglers must purchase a $2 permit to harvest snook. Snatch-hooking and spearing snook are prohibited, and it is illegal to buy or sell snook. Snook regulations also apply in federal waters.

Visit myFWC.com for more information.

SHORELINE ANGLERS COMPLY WITH NEW LICENSE REQUIREMENT

Florida's saltwater anglers who fish from shore seem to accept the reality that paying about $9 for a state fishing license is better than paying a $15 - $20 federal registration. The federal government will begin charging the free in 2011 in states that don't have an approved licensing system. By establishing the shoreline license, the Florida Legislature arranged for that state's anglers to be exempt from the federal fee which took effect August 1.

Visit myFWC.com for more information.

FCD UPDATES

Chadwick Cove Marina & Resort's name and phone (941-474-8577) have been inadvertently dropped from Chart 18. Pencil them into the upper left hand corner (page 118) just to the south of the west end of Tom Adams Bridge. They're still there in Englewood in their beautiful little spot across the street from the Gulf of Mexico beach.

Our apologies to our FCD users and the marina! We "remembered" them when we spotted a nice little story about the place in the August issue of Southern Boating magazine. If your subscription has run out ... or has not yet started ... you may want to call their Fort Lauderdale office ... 954-522-5515.

In the St. Petersburg area, John's Pass Marina on Treasure Island (south side of the John's Pass to Gulf Bridge) has a new phone number at the fuel dock: Call 727-367-3835 for Marlin's Dockside at Johns Pass. You can pencil that in on Chart 20, page 127, in the current FCD.

BOAT SHOWS (and one NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET) SCHEDULED

The 44th annual Tampa Boat Show is set for September 11-13 at the Tampa Convention Center. Starts at 10 am each day; closes at 8 pm except on Sunday with a 6 pm close. Admission is $9; Junior Boaters (13-15 years of age) $5 and Kids 12 and under free. Phone 954-441-3220 for more information.

Free admission is offered to active duty military, law enforcement and firefighters throughout the event.

The Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival is planned for September 18-20 at the Martin County Fairgrounds in Stuart from 9 am to 6 pm each day. Admission is $7 at the gate; discounted ($5) tickets in advance online at www.flnauticalfleamarket.com.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is scheduled for October 29 through November 2 at six locations.

NEW FISHING RULES IN THE BAHAMAS

Capt. John Yeager spent some time in the Islands recently and says there are some new fishing rules folks should be aware of ... For full information, call the Bahamas Tourist Office at 954-236-9282, 1-800-327sport or visit www.bahamas.com.

Page 17 in current FCD has rules in effect as of November '07.

Per Capt. Yeager, another item to be noted particularly by non-Bahamians: If your on-board freezer contains your latest Florida catch when you're going into the Bahamas, be sure to advise Customs of it so that on departure you won't be suspected of having gone over the allowable catch!

... AND A NEW MARINA ...

The Leeward Yacht Club (a themed community on Green Turtle Cay, Abaco) has a new 28-slip marina with fresh water and electric now open to the public. Call on VHF 16 or 242-365-4111. The web site is www.leewardyachtclub.com.

NEW OWNERSHIP FOR THE JIB YACHT CLUB & MARINA

John Krizka, owner of Blowing Rocks Marina in Tequesta (561-746-3312), has advised us that his company now owns the Jib Yacht Club & Marina (561-746-4300) to the south at the Jupiter Highway bridge, just north of Jupiter Inlet on the east side of the ICW. The sister-marinas both sell gas and diesel fuels (the Jib's tanks are brand new!), welcome both sail and powerboat transients and have the Florida Clean Marina designation.

A TALE OF FOUR BOATYARDS ...

STUART YACHT HAS REOPENED

Gregg and Nancy Burdick have reacquired and reopened their long-time boat yard business which was operated by Riviera Yachts during the last three years as the Burdicks tried retirement.

With the Australian builder's downsizing in the Americas, ownership of the Stuart Yacht facility has returned to the Burdicks who are happy to again greet former customers and meet new ones while providing all the first class yard services they've been well known for — from custom designs and building to refinishing, carpentry, mechanical and more; a full service yacht facility.

The yard, nestled on the South Fork of the beautiful St. Lucie River is near the Okeechobee Waterway, I-95 and the Turnpike, a bit south of "downtown" Stuart which also has its own airport.

Gregg mentioned the "addiction" of being in the boat business and is undaunted at turning his hand to running the yard again. They expect their core customers — experienced boat owners — will return to Stuart Yacht as will several of their experienced craftsmen and service professionals ... their "alumni," Burdick said.

The phone is 772-286-9800, web address is www.StuartYacht.com

NEW APEX YARD ON THE NEW RIVER

The former Allied Marine Service Yard in downtown Fort Lauderdale on the south side of the river is in operation again, having been purchased by Isamel "Issy" Perera, a retired corporate executive who purchased three boats from Allied. Customers and boat owners will notice immediately that the repair yard will now service all brands and models of boats, not just those previously sold by Allied.

The yard handles yachts of 30 to approximately 85 feet. The lift accommodates 88-tons or a beam of 21'9". There's a spray booth for exterior painting and mechanical and electrical services, repowering and interior refits are available.

Many of the yard's former workers have accepted positions with Apex. Bill Dalton, who was Service Manager at Allied is now VP of Service; Lisa Mahl is office manager. Apex Marine's current work force counts more than 230 years of experience in yacht repair.

Visit www.apexmarinerepair.com or phone 954-759-7212.

BRADFORD MARINE ADDS SERVICES AT LAUDERDALE MARINE CENTER

Bradford Marine, Inc. is pleased to announce that their full line of services is now available at Lauderdale Marine Center where they've opened a new facility in LMC Bays 105 and 106. These services are in addition to - and expand - the capabilities of Bradford's highly-regarded shipyard on Fort Lauderdale's Marina Mile, which has been serving yachts since 1966.

A full line of services is available at the Lauderdale Marine Center facility including welding and fabrication, carpentry, shaft and propeller reconditioning and more.

Bradford Marine's President, Paul Engle said, "Our new operation ... enables us to provide full service to yachts of all types and sizes.

Lauderdale Marine Center is a 50-acre marine service facility on Fort Lauderdale's New River designed to service yachts up to 180 ft. with 300-, 100- and 75-ton lifts.

NEWS FROM BOATU.S. — BOAT OWNERS ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES

The Boat US Foundation offers a no-cost Kid's Life Jacket Loaner Program giving boaters and parents the opportunity to borrow a child's life jacket for the day or weekend. When you stop by one of the 500 locations across the country to pick up a loaner jacket, have your camera ready. The Foundation is looking for photos of kids wearing Loaner Program life jackets. The best photos will be featured in a 2010 calendar and some of the images will be used to promote the program. E-mail your entry to Life Jacket Program Manager Alanna Keating at AKeating@BoatUS.com by September 30th and be entered into a drawing to win a free custom photo book. The photos will be judged in November and the calendar will be offered for sale on www.BoatUS.com/foundation. Proceeds from the calendar sale will help keep the program afloat.

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER ANNUAL SALE

The Environmental Learning Center, 255 Live Oak Drive, Vero Beach has announced their annual sale throughout September in their Nature Nook. All items, except books and cards, are great bargains at 40% off. The Nature Nook is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 AM to 4 PM, Saturday from 9 until noon and Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM.

All merchandise is either eco-friendly or environmentally themed. Featured items include SeaPals Interactive stuffed animals, handmade pottery, games and plaques, unusual jewelry and more.

Phone is 772-589-5050; web site is www.DiscoverELC.org

HISTORY OF DIVING MUSEUM ACTIVITIES

Celebrate the Museum's Third Birthday on Saturday, September 19— three years of bringing the Story of Man's Quest to Explore Under the Sea to the Florida Keys ... All day: Half price admission for adults; children 12 and under FREE!

The museum, located at MM 83 Bayside in Islamorada (Phone: 305-664-9737) is open daily, 10AM-5PM and schedules the following:

Sea Hunt, the original TV Series with Lloyd Bridges is shown every Saturday between 3 and 5 PM.

Comprehensive safe boating course under the instruction of a USCG Master Captain is presented FREE to Monroe County Students on the first Sunday of every month. (Donations are appreciated from all others.) Classes are scheduled from 10:30AM-12:30PM and prospective students should register by phone at 305-664-9737.

FREE Seminar is scheduled for Wednesday, September 16, at 7 PM. Ken Nedimyer of the Coral Restoration Foundation presents an update on local coral research and restoration efforts with video on the August 2009 coral spawn which occurred in Keys waters.

The Non-Profit Museum has announced a NEW VOLUNTEER PROGRAM. It gives a new opportunity to meet people, plus volunteers get free admission and discounts in the Museum Store. Call them (305-664-9737) or visit www.DivingMuseum.org to check it out

This Museum celebrates Smithsonian Museum Day with FREE Admission on Smithsonian magazine's Museum Day, Saturday, September 26. Smithsonian magazine readers and Smithsonian.com visitors need to visit www.smithsonian.com/museumday to get a free admission card.

LOOKING AHEAD to NOVEMBER

The Seven Seas Cruising Association has scheduled their annual meeting in Melbourne for November 13 and 14. Web address for more information is www.ssca.org.

The "No Yelling" fishing school — Ladies Let's Go Fishing! — for ladies' next scheduled seminar is in Islamorada, November 13-15.

Check the web site: www.ladiesletsgofishing.com for more information.

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE CALENDAR

Fishermen’s Village is the Punta Gorda marina with shopping mall. It's located off Marion Ave. at 1200 West Retta Esplanade. Extended seasonal hours for shopping are from 10 AM – 8 PM Mondays through Saturdays and 12 noon - 6 PM Sundays.

Fishermen's Village Yacht Basin is a member of the BoatU.S. Foundation's Life Jacket Loaner Program for Kids.
( ... allows boaters to borrow a child's life jacket for a day or weekend at no charge ... ) Call the Yacht Basin at 941-575-3000 to learn more about the program.

The following activities and entertainment schedule has been announced for this month. Admission is FREE for all shows and events unless otherwise noted.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS:
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Friday/Saturday evenings 5-9 PM, Center Stage, featuring various bands/performers. Free of charge.

WEDNESDAYS:
COUNTRY LINE DANCE LESSONS EVERY WEDNESDAY from 7-9 PM at Center Court ($3/person). Phone 941-575-8188 for more info.

Specifics follow for September, 2009 ...

2 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

3 EVENT: Muttini Mingle, The Floating "Yappy" Hour, 5:30-8 pm, Center Court. Sponsored by Salty Paws and Gulf Coast Dog Magazine. Call 575-7599 for more information.

The "Kay Jays" in concert, 5-7 pm, Center Stage. Eclectic music, originals and covers. Don't miss their debut at Fishermen's Village!

4 Father/Daughter duo Magen & Mike are UNFORGETTABLE, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free.

5 Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption will be at Fishermen's Village in front of Salty Paws, from 1-3 pm.

EVENT: Salty Paws hosts a pet vaccination clinic by the Animal Health Services of Sarasota 12 Noon-1pm, Center Court.
First come, first served. Nominal fees. For more information, call 575-7599.

They will be providing information on adoption and rescue services. For more information call: Betty Libby at
941-629-9752.

"Reconnections Band" performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy listening and dancing to music that will reconnect you with yesteryear! Free

7 LABOR DAY - Village Open Regular Hours 10 am-6 pm

9 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

11 Sean & Ramsi "MONTAGE" perform variety and dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

12 EVENT: FISHERMEN'S VILLAGE "PIRATE'S DAY" FESTIVAL. First annual Pirate's Day Festival Celebration. Festivities begin at 11 am including "The Calendar Girls" Dance Group, Village wide treasure hunt, costume contests for children and adults, book signing and storytelling at Hooked on Books with James and Sarah Kaserman, "Madame Go Go" Stilt Walker/Fire Dancer, Buccaneer Bash with live music by Shawn Brown and the "As Is Band", Pyrates of Tortuga featuring Pyrate Invasions and skits throughout the day, tours aboard the Royal Order of Ponce De Leon Conquistador ship, "Tats All Folks" air brush tattooing and much more. Come to the Village in your best "pirate attire" all ye Mateys and Wenches! Free admission! Call 941 639-8721 for more information.

14 Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 pm, Center Stage. Come read, sing, listen and enjoy! Presented by The Peace River Center for Writers. Call 637-3514 for more information!

15 Book Signing at Military Heritage Museum with author Roy Sannella, 4-6 pm. Call 575-9002 for more information.

16 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

18 Singer/Guitarist "TOMMY D" performs classics and variety music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

19 EVENT: POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony, Center Court 1-3 pm presented by the Military Heritage & Aviation Museum. Reception follows at Museum. Call 575-9002 for more details.

BEANS AND SEEDS performs classic rock to modern day music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

23 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

25 Singer/Songwriter GARY GRAY performs classics and variety music 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

26 EVENT: "Hooked on Habitat" Redfish/Snook Tournament, weigh in at Harpoon Harry's. Call Debbie Doran-Haynes at 639-3162 for more information.

Military Heritage Museum presents Ivan Svenson's talk on the Korean War Veterans' Appreciation Event in Korea, 3 pm. Call 575-9002 for more information.

BLUE BYOU performs Island, variety and jazz music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage. Free

30 Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

LOOKING AHEAD

Anglers for Conservation's Hook Kids on Fishing program is coming to Punta Gorda's Fishermen's Village Saturday, October 17 from 11AM to 2 PM.

Kids 6 to 16 are welcome along with their parents. The first 100 to register get a free rod, reel and tackle box. There will be clinics on casting, conservation, fishing safety, knot tying and catch and release tactics along with fishing with professional guides and knowledgeable anglers. Pre-register by calling Capt. Ralph Allen, King Fisher Fleet at 941-639-0969 ... Kids and parents should show up no later than 10:30 AM.

For more information visit www.anglersforconservation.org or phone 1-321-777-2030 or write to Hook Kids on Fishing Program
PO Box 291, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920-0291.

Besides Fishermen's Village, sponsors include Coastal Angler Magazine, Capt. Ralph Allen / King Fisher Fleet, DOA Tackle, Fish Florida and Florida Outdoor Writers Assn.

IN-STORE LEARNING

Quite a few marine stores sponsor "mostly" free talks and seminars (occasionally there’s a small charge). Check with the stores when you’re shopping — they usually have notices posted — and it's not a bad idea to call in advance to see if there are schedule changes.

The USCG's Local Notice to Mariners is available at www.navcen.uscg.gov/

Don't forget to glance back over previous months' updates every-now-and-then to see if there's anything still ongoing that you've missed ...

AUG