UPDATES

FCD

UPDATES &

BOATING NEWS
FEB

2011

FEBRUARY 2011

HOW TO FIND THE NEW FCD

The 2011/12 - 29th - edition of the FCD will be available through this web site and in marinas, marine stores and bookstores throughout Florida and elsewhere to coincide with mid-February publication. (Retailers are invited to e-mail their orders to us at info@floridacruising.com or fax 954-462-8168.) The ISBN on this edition is: 978-1-928864-11-0; cover photo is a shot of Fort Lauderdale's New River.

This year's print edition will be joined, for the first time, by our new Interactive Web Site and an E-Book. Details on the E-Book are not yet complete. Contact us ... or check here ... for more information early in March.

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.
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Our Web Site Updates, on or about the first of each month continue in three "chapters."

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y items

and

CHAPTER 3 - News from Fishermen's Village

We continue to give "the Village" events our web site update "back page" as they provide a wonderful, and busy, event calendar each month! (Other events we learn about are included in Chapter 2.)

Don't forget: you can refer back to web site updates as they are "here" for one year.

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CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations

OKEECHOBEE WATERWAY, FLORIDA NOTICES & INFORMATION

Most recent information on the Okeechobee Waterway, dated 9 November, advises that Canaveral Lock will be closed this winter for installing new manatee protection systems there.

The lock will be closed for passage through February 24, 2011 and again from March 15 through April 23, 2011.

The lock will open from February 25 through March 14 to facilitate a National Aeronautics and Space Administration launch. Visit http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/index.htm for more.

The latest Navigation Report can be found at:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/Navigation/NavNotices.htm

Additional information concerning Okeechobee Waterway or other Navigational interests may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing the OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.
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FWC UPDATE — Notes on Openings, Closings, Rule Changes
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (a/k/a FWC) keeps us up to date on changes that fishermen, and even cruising-fishermen, should know, and other items of interest to boating people. As the audience is somewhat varied, we now just give a quick note on the news and suggest that those interested in specific topics check it all out at the FWC web site.

There's also information on boating, parks, ramps, etc., etc. and we'll hope to include news on anything we think you'll want to know about.

FWC's web site is www.MyFWC.com.

FWC DATABASE TO HELP REDUCE DERELICT VESSELS

Check out more on that in last month's update.

ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SOUTHERN FLORIDA SPOTTED SEATROUT SEASONS ...

... ARE CLOSED, as of November 1, in state and federal waters. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

New for this update:

GROUPER HARVEST closed January 1 in Atlantic and Monroe County waters. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

FWC SEEKS INPUT ON POSSIBLE CHANGES TO RED DRUM RULES. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554,

GULF GAG GROUPER recreational harvest in federal waters closed Jan. 1 for 6 months. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

SPOTTED SEATROUT season reopened Jan. 1 in Southern Florida areas. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554,

ATLANTIC SNOOK HARVEST closed December 15; catch and release still okay. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

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

Plans on Broward County Manatee Protection will be addressed at meetings in April or June. Go to MyFWC.com/Manatee for more on that.
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REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES

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.

BOOT KEY HARBOR BRIDGE DEMOLITION HAS BEEN COMPLETED!
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CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y Items

MATLACHA BRIDGE OPENINGS / SPECIAL SCHEDULING

The bridge at Matlacha (where the powerline has been removed) is being replaced and the new under-construction opening schedule (as included in the new FCD on Chart 18) follows:

Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays: 8AM-7PM
Sundays: 7AM-7PM
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays: 8AM-10AM + 3PM-7PM, also attended on the hour as needed at 11, 12, 1 and 2. Visit updated-weekly site: www.matlachabridge.info or call bridge tender: 239-283-2414.

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Repeating, Reminding, Repeating ... BAKER'S HAULOVER FURTHER CAUTIONS ADVISED

See note on recent dredging in the new FCD.
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BOAT SHOWS & NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS

Miami International Boat Show runs from February 17 through 21 at Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Strictly Sail at Miamarina at Bayside. More info at www.miamiboatshow.com

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NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS

The Palm Beach Marine Flea Market & Seafood Festival is scheduled for February 11-13 and the Port Charlotte Flea Market is set for April 16 & 17. Go to www.FLNauticalFleaMarket.com for more on those and others.
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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 and a 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.

Recently announced:
February 16, 7 PM - FREE PROGRAM, Diver's Alert Network (DAN) by Dan Orr.

ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

The Vero Beach ELC web site is www.DiscoverELC.org. Their schedule of events is listed on the site. They offer several guided trips by boat if you choose to drive over.
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BAHAMAS

Sumner Point Marina at Rum Cay has announced a new offering of activities including sky-diving, kite surfing, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and spear fishing ... in addition to their-already established sport fishing. Visit their site at www.rumcaymarina or call 242-331-2823. If you're cruising or fishing you can stay aboard or enjoy their resort accommodations ... available for those who fly over.

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Atlantis (on Paradise Island) has announced a Kids Stay & Eat Free and a Free Companion Airfare if you're flying over. Book by Feb. 8 at 877-205-7119 of visit atlantis.com.

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LADIES, LET'S GO FISHING

The well-known "teaching ladies to fish" group, a/k/a/ "the no yelling school of fishing" has announced their upcoming schedule:
March 11-13, Naples
April 15-17, Fort Lauderdale
May 20-22, Stuart
November 11-13, Islamorada

Contacts: www.ladiesletsgofishing.com or 954-475-9068.
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS & FLORIDA SAILING & CRUISING SCHOOL

The Florida Sailing and Cruising School is planning 11% discounts for 2011 ... which double to 22% for June, July and August. It's not too early to plan - and schedule - your 2011 learning experience.

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.
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CHAPTER 3 -The "Back Page" ... News from FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen’s Village - Over 30 Years in business! - 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.

Now through April - Shop 10 am-8 pm Daily, 12 Noon-6 pm Sunday

Events and Entertainment / FEBRUARY 2011

Day Event

1

2 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 am-2 pm Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and live music with Singer / Guitarist Michael Hirst. Call 941 637-4874 for more information.

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

3 Book Signing at Hooked on Books with Author Jan Neeman "Going to the Dogs", 12 Noon-3 pm.

Muttini Mingle, "A Pawtastic Yappy Hour" 5:30-8 pm. Social time for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws 575-7599 for more information. Reconnections Band performs variety and dance music 5:30-8 pm

EVENT: CHARLOTTE HARBOR REGATTA! The board of directors of Charlotte Harbor Regatta, Inc. is pleased to announce that Fishermen's Village Resort & Marina will be reprising its role as host sponsor of the 2011 Charlotte Harbor Regatta, scheduled for Feb. 3-6, 2011 on Charlotte Harbor, Florida. As part of its sponsorship, Fishermen's Village will be offering special "regatta rates" on its waterfront two-bedroom suites overlooking Charlotte Harbor.

"The 2010 Charlotte Harbor Regatta was a great success and we are pleased to continue our partnership in this sailing event which promotes Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor as a premier boating destination," said Fishermen's Village Harbormaster Jim Branch. "Fishville will host receptions for the sailing crews, their families and event staff on Feb. 4 and Feb. 5. In addition, our yacht basin will offer free dockage for many of the participating sailing vessels and committee boats."

The 2011 Charlotte Harbor Regatta is expected to draw 100 boats in a dozen classes for three days of racing. In addition to the 65 boats in eight classes that raced in the inaugural regatta, the 2011 event will include "open" Sonar, SKUD-18 and 2.4 mR classes and the F18 multihull class.

Fishermen's Village's Center Court will feature food, drink, music and comradery on Friday and Saturday night of the regatta. Regatta clothing and sailing gear will be available nearby from Coral Reef Sailing Apparel.

For information about Fishermen's Village Resort & Marina, visit www.fishville.com or call 800-639-0020. Availability is limited, so book soon. For more information about the Charlotte Harbor Regatta, visit http://www.charlotteharborregatta.com
or e-mail Brian Gleason at gleason@charlotteharborregatta.com.

4 EVENT: CHARLOTTE HARBOR REGATTA!

Live Music by Singer/Songwriter, Fremont John, 5-9 pm Center Stage

5 EVENT: CHARLOTTE HARBOR REGATTA!

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

Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

6 EVENT: CHARLOTTE HARBOR REGATTA! Awards Ceremony, Center court

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

Burnt Store Presbyterian Church Praise Team, 5:30 pm Center Stage

9 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 AM-2 PM Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and live music with Singer/Guitarist 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.

10.

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

12 Military Heritage Museum book signing, 1 pm with Author Prudence Board "Southwest Florida during World War II:
What We Were Doing at home while our Men Were Away" and "A Grave Injustice"

Book Signing at Hooked on Books with Author Sherry Ballou "Empty Complex," 2-5 pm

Carol & Johnnie perform country classics and variety music 5-9 pm Center Stage

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!

16 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 am-2 pm Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and Live music with Singer/Guitarist 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.

17 A taste of the Punta Gorda Banjo Bash, 5-7 pm, first section of village and in center court.

18 A taste of the Punta Gorda Banjo Bash, 12 Noon -2 pm Center Court

Father/Daughter Duo, Magen & Mike, perform 5-9 pm Center Stage

19 A taste of the Punta Gorda Banjo Bash, 12 Noon -2 pm, Center Court

Book Signing at Hooked On Books with Author Jerry Gregory "Valerie's Dream," 1-3 pm

Variety and Dance Music by RECONNECTIONS BAND, 5-9 pm Center Stage

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

23 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 am-2 pm Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and Live music with Singer/Guitarist 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 Eclectic and variety music by PATCHOULI, 5-9 pm Center Stage.

26 "Up The Creek" performs variety and dance music, 5-9 pm Center Stage

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

HAPPY PRESIDENTS' DAY

JANUARY 2011
HAPPY NEW YEAR from the FCD crew!

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! The new print edition is scheduled for publication in mid-February. This will be followed, for the first time, by our new Interactive web site and an E-Book.

Besides the FCD, Our SHIPS' 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.
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Before publication NEXT MONTH, there's still time for you to try the web site demo: www.floridacruising.com/test.

It is an incomplete work-in-progress, based on the current edition of the FCD's coverage of the East Coast of Florida from the state line through the Gold Coast, plus the St. Johns River and Okeechobee Waterway.

Enjoy your "cruise" of the demo and see how your click on a web address in any ad takes you to that advertiser's web site. Click on indicated mentions in the text about museums, parks, area attractions or activities and go to them. It's great and it allows us to present more than a boating book can cover in its pages. We call these things the "sidelights of the highlights of cruising" and we're glad to be able to make them easily available to you.

Your comments and ideas for the final version of the site are appreciated. E-mail us about your "test cruise" at info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!
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AS ANNOUNCED ... NEW WEB UPDATE FORMAT

Our Web Site Updates, on or about the first of each month continue in three new "chapters."

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y items

and

CHAPTER 3 - News from Fishermen's Village

(We'll continue to give "the Village" events our web site update "back page" as long as they continue to provide their wonderful event calendar each month! (Other events we learn about will be included in Chapter 2.)

Don't forget: you can refer back to web site updates as they are "here" for one year.
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CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

OUR COVERAGE ON CORPS OF ENGINEERS & FWC PROJECTS CHANGES A BIT

The US Army's Corps of Engineers web site: www.saj.usace.army.mil has a wealth of information for boating people. Their coverage of the Okeechobee Waterway and projects such as inlet dredging are excellent. Instead of publishing complete press releases, however, from now on our plan is to note the news and suggest that persons interested in particular projects or areas just go to the site for more complete information

A similar change follows on our coverage on the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

First on the COE ...

OKEECHOBEE WATERWAY, FLORIDA NOTICES & INFORMATION

Most recent information on the Okeechobee Waterway, dated 9 November, advises that Canaveral Lock will be closed this winter for installing new manatee protection systems there.

The lock will be closed for passage from December 27, 2010 through February 24, 2011 and again from March 15 through April 23, 2011.

The lock will open from February 25 through March 14 to facilitate a National Aeronautics and Space Administration launch. Visit http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/index.htm for more.

The latest Navigation Report can be found at:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/Navigation/NavNotices.htm

Additional information concerning Okeechobee Waterway or other Navigational interests may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing the OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.
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FWC UPDATE — Notes on Openings, Closings, Rule Changes
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (a/k/a FWC) has been doing a great job of keeping us up to date on changes that fishermen, and even cruising-fishermen, should know and other items of interest to boating people. We have, however, decided that instead of printing all Press Releases, from now on we'll just give a quick note on the news and suggest that those interested in specific topics check it all out at the FWC web site.

The site also has information on boating, parks, ramps, etc., etc. and we'll hope to include news on anything we think you'll want to know about.

FWC's web site is www.MyFWC.com.

FWC DATABASE TO HELP REDUCE DERELICT VESSELS

A program has been launched to help prevent vessels in state waterways from becoming derelict; wherein FWC officers will collaborate with local sheriffs and police to enter information about potential derelict vessels into a statewide database. When a vessel is thought to be potentially "at risk," information and photos will be posted and a letter mailed to registered owner. Go to MyFWC.com/Boating for more on the At-Risk Vessel Program.

ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SOUTHERN FLORIDA SPOTTED SEATROUT SEASONS ...

... ARE CLOSED, as of November 1, in state and federal waters. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

New for this update:

GROUPER HARVEST closes January 1 in Atlantic and Monroe County waters. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

FWC SEEKS INPUT ON POSSIBLE CHANGES TO RED DRUM RULES. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554,

BLUE CRAB Rule Changes proposed. Ten day closure, January 5 - 14, in designated areas. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554. You can also contact the FWC's trap-retrieval coordinator, Kyle Miller at 850 487-0554.

GULF GAG GROUPER recreational harvest in federal waters closes Jan. 1 for 6 months. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

SPOTTED SEATROUT season reopens Jan. 1 in Southern Florida areas. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554,

ATLANTIC SNOOK HARVEST closed December 15; catch and release still okay. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules (Click on "Fishing - Saltwater") or call 850-487-0554.

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

Plans on Broward County Manatee Protection will be addressed at meetings in April or June. Go to MyFWC.com/Manatee for more on that.
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REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES

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.
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BOOT KEY HARBOR BRIDGE DEMOLITION STILL UNDERWAY

The previously announced demolition of the Boot Key Bridge in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, was planned to require two months to complete but is ongoing. The bridge will need to open and close and construction equipment may temporarily block the channel. Entry into this zone is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port, Key West or a designated representative. It is anticipated that daytime drawbridge closures may occur in the near future, prior to the removal of the span. Exact dates/times will be published in future Local Notice to Mariners.

Obviously, boaters could be excluded from entering / exiting Boot Key Harbor, all of this per our Captain John Yeager.
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CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y Items

MATLACHA BRIDGE OPENINGS / SPECIAL SCHEDULING

The bridge at Matlacha (tended in part by our friend, Alvy Saunders, who keeps us up-to-date on happenings at beautiful Pine Island) is being replaced and we've recently been notified that the bridge has not been closed but openings are allowed at the following times:

8AM-10AM and 3PM-7PM Mondays through Saturdays; 7AM-10-AM and 3PM-7PM on Sundays. Bridge tender's phone appears on Chart 18 - 239-283-2414.
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Repeating, Reminding, Repeating ... 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 markers 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!!!' "
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ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER

The Vero Beach ELC web site is www.DiscoverELC.org. Their schedules events are listed.
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BOAT SHOWS & NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS

The 37th Annual Stuart Boat Show featuring the 3rd Annual Cruiser Expo is scheduled for January 14-16 at three locations: HMY's Waterway Marina, 290 N. Dixie Hwy., Allied Marine, 110 N. Dixie Hwy. and Stuart Harbor Marina, 54 N. Dixie Hwy. Visit Cruiserexpo.com and allsportsproductions.net for more information. There will be Free Parking and Free Shuttle Service.

Southwest Florida's Marine Industries Association's Charlotte County Boat Show is set for January 11 - 23 at the Charlotte County Fairgrounds. Visit www.swfmia.com for map and complete information.
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NAUTICAL FLEA MARKETS

Second annual Indian River Nautical Flea Market and Seafood Festival is scheduled for January 15 - 16 in Vero Beach. Go to www.FLNauticalFleaMarket.com for more on that one and others.

There's a West Palm Beach Flea Market scheduled for February 11-13 and a Port Charlotte Flea Market scheduled for April 16 & 17. The above-mentioned web site has info.
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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 and a 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.

Recently announced:
January 19, 7 PM, FREE PROGRAM, The Art of Freediving by Erin Magee.
January 25, 1:30-5 PM. Blood Drive at the Museum. (Free museum admission for all donors.)
February 16, 7 PM - FREE PROGRAM, Diver's Alert Network (DAN) by Dan Orr.

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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS & FLORIDA SAILING & CRUISING SCHOOL

The Florida Sailing and Cruising School is planning 11% discounts for 2011 ... which double to 22% for June, July and August. It's not too early to plan - and schedule - your 2011 learning experience.

Visit Southwest Florida Yachts and Florida Sailing & Cruising School at www.flsailandcruiseschool.com, wwwswfyachtsales.com or phone 800-262-7939. The company's fleets are in North Fort Myers and at Burnt Store Marina in Punta Gorda.
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CHAPTER 3 -The "Back Page" ... News from Fishermen's Village

FISHERMEN’S VILLAGE

Fishermen’s Village - Over 30 Years in business! - 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.

January, 2011 Shop 10 am-8 pm Daily, 12 Noon-6 pm Sunday

Events and Entertainment

Day Event

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

Live Music with Singer/Songwriter Michael Hirst, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

2

3

4

5 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 AM-2 PM Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and live music with Singer/Guitarist 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.

6 Muttini Mingle, "A Pawtastic Yappy Hour" 5:30 -8 pm. Social time for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws 575-7599 for more information. Reconnections Band performs variety and dance music 6-8 pm.

7 "Patchouli" performs eclectic and variety music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage.

8 Book signing at Hooked on Books, 11 am-2 pm with Peter Alden Yule, author of Sparrow in the Dark (historical fiction about a young man who becomes a reporter during the Civil War).

Carol & Johnnie perform variety/dance music, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

9

10 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!

11

12 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 am-2 pm Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Fresh Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and live music with Singer/Guitarist 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

13

14 "Coconut Radio" performs Trop Rock and variety music, 5-9 pm Center Stage

15 "Coconut Radio" performs Trop Rock and variety music, 5-9 pm Center Stage

16

17 Burnt Store Presbyterian Church Praise Team 5:30 pm, Center Court

18 Live Music by "Latitudes", 6-8:30 pm, Center Court

19 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 am-2 pm Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Fresh Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and Live music with Singer/Guitarist 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.

20

21 Punta Gorda Middle School Jazz Band, 11:30 am-2 pm, Center Stage.

Father/Daughter duo "Magen & Mike" perform variety/dance music, 5-9 pm Center Stage

22 Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 10 am-8 pm. Free admission; free parking. For more information, contact TNT Events at 352-344-0657.

Singer/Guitarist Paul Cottrell performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage

23 Fine Arts & Crafts Show, 12 Noon-6 pm. Free admission; free parking. For more information, contact TNT Events at 352 344-0657.

24 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group, 11:30 am-1 pm, Center Court

25

26 WORDEN FARM'S GREENMARKET, 10 AM - 2 PM Center Court. Organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers from Worden Farm, Fresh Seafood from Peace River Seafood, Culinary Cooking Demos by Charlotte Vo-Tech and Live music with Singer/Guitarist 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.

27

28 Swing/Big Band music by "The Top Hats", 5-9 pm, Center Stage

29 17 year-old Country Singer/Songwriter CASEY WESTON performs 5-9 pm Center Stage. Don't miss her debut at Fishermen's Village!

30

DECEMBER 2010

MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR from the FCD crew!

Watch for Christmas Boat Parades all over Florida this month ... Enjoy the season with this 'specially Florida tradition from the land or the boat!

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.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION on our NEXT FCD

The next printed edition (mid-February publication) of the annual FCD will be accompanied by a NEW INTERACTIVE WEB SITE and E-BOOK. Everybody who enjoys boats and the water is invited go to www.floridacruising.com/test to try out the new site demo.

It is an incomplete work-in-progress, based on the current edition of the FCD's coverage of the East Coast of Florida from the state line through the Gold Coast, plus the St. Johns River and Okeechobee Waterway.

Enjoy your "cruise" of the demo and see how your click on a web address in any ad takes you to that advertiser's web site. Click on indicated mentions in the text about museums, parks, area attractions or activities and go to them. It's great and it allows us to present more than a boating book can cover in its pages. We call these things the "sidelights of the highlights of cruising" and we're glad to be able to make them easily available to you.

Your comments and ideas for the final version of the site are appreciated. E-mail us about your "test cruise" at info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!

_____________

AS ANNOUNCED IN OCTOBER ... NEW WEB UPDATE FORMAT

Our Web Site Updates, on or about the first of each month continue in three new "chapters."

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y items

and

CHAPTER 3 - News from Fishermen's Village

(We'll continue to give "the Village" events our web site update "back page" as long as they continue to provide their wonderful event calendar each month! (Other events we learn about will be included in Chapter 2.)

Don't forget: you can refer back to web site updates as they are "here" for one year.
________________________

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

OUR COVERAGE ON CORPS OF ENGINEERS & FWC PROJECTS CHANGES A BIT

The US Army's Corps of Engineers web site: www.saj.usace.army.mil has a wealth of information for boating people. Their coverage of the Okeechobee Waterway and projects such as inlet dredging are excellent. Instead of publishing complete press releases, however, from now on our plan is to note the news and suggest that persons interested in particular projects or areas just go to the site for more complete information

A similar change follows on our coverage on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

OKEECHOBEE WATERWAY, FLORIDA NOTICES & INFORMATION

Most recent information on the Okeechobee Waterway, dated 9 November, advises that Canaveral Lock will be closed this winter for installing new manatee protection systems there.

The lock will be closed for passage from December 27, 2010 through February 24, 2011 and again from March 15 through April 23, 2011.

The lock will open from February 25 through March 14 to facilitate a National Aeronautics and Space Administration launch. Visit http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/index.htm for more.

The latest Navigation Report can be found at:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/Navigation/NavNotices.htm

Additional information concerning Okeechobee Waterway or other Navigational interests may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing the OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.

______________

FWC MEETING SET FOR DECEMBER 1-2 in Weston, Florida

The Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center in Weston will be site for a two-day Commission meeting. Several topics including numerous hunting and fishing issues and the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network Initiative will be on the agenda. The city of Weston is west of Fort Lauderdale; the address of the Hyatt is 250 Racquet Club Rd., hotel phone is 954-616-1234.

The public is invited to attend the sessions which begin at 8:30 AM. To see the full agenda go to MYFWC.com/Commission. Watch live web cast of the meeting courtesy of the Florida Channel at www.wfsu.org/flashwebcasts/web7.php.
______________

FWC DATABASE TO HELP REDUCE DERELICT VESSELS

A program has been launched to help prevent vessels in state waterways from becoming derelict; wherein FWC officers will collaborate with local sheriffs and police to enter information about potential derelict vessels into a statewide database. When a vessel is thought to be potentially "at risk," information and photos will be posted and a letter mailed to registered owner. Go to MyFWC.com/Boating for more on the At-Risk Vessel Program.

FWC SEEKS INPUT ON POSSIBLE CHANGES TO RED DRUM RULES

A series of public workshops to review its analysis of the latest red drum (redfish) stock assessment and discuss possible red drum rule changes continues. The notice was received too late for inclusion of November meetings in Fort Myers and Jacksonville. Additional workshops are scheduled for Monday December 13, from 6 - 8 PM in St. Petersburg at the Karen A. Steidinger Auditorium at 100 8th Avenue, SE and on Tuesday, December 14th, from 6 - 8 PM in Crystal River at City Hall Council Chambers. For more, including an on-line survey, go to MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS and click on "fishing-saltwater."

A video workshop will be held from 6-8 PM EST on December 15 where people can attend at FWC offices in Tallahassee, Panama City (5-7PM CST), Lake City, Ocala, Lakeland, West Palm Beach, St. Petersburg and Marathon or participate by phone.

Further information on this on the web site or phone local offices for more.
______________

ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SOUTHERN FLORIDA SPOTTED SEATROUT SEASONS ...
ARE CLOSED, as of November 1, in state and federal waters.

Vermilion Snapper is prohibited in Atlantic state and federal waters off Florida from November 1 until April 1. Spotted Seatrout 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, approx. 1.17mi. s. of the Pinellas/Pasco county line in the Gulf of Mexico.

BONEFISH Workshops in December

FWC has scheduled two public workshops to hear what people think about possible rule changes that would make bonefish a catch-and-release-only fishery. Workshops take place in Dania Beach (12/8) and Key Colony Beach (12/9). For details go to MyFWC.com/Fishing: click on "Saltwater Fishing," then "Bonefish."

BLUE CRAB Rule Changes proposed

FWC has proposed a series of rule amendments on blue crab regulations. A public hearing will be held in December in Weston. Visit MyFWC.com/Commission for more, linked from the September 1-3 meeting.

REDFISH Bag Limit proposed

FWC has proposed a series of rule amendments on blue crab regulations. A public hearing will be held in December in Weston. Visit MyFWC.com/Commission for more, linked from the September 1-3 meeting.

RED SNAPPER Bonus Season Over

The recreational harvest season for red snapper in Gulf of Mexico state waters has ended. Visit MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing - Saltwater).

ATLANTIC SNOOK

FWC has reopened the recreational harvest season for snook in Florida's Atlantic waters. Only catch-and-release fishing for snook has been allowed statewide. More info at MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing - Saltwater).

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

INFO ON REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES

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.

See September update for complete notice.

Mariners wishing to comment on this temporary change may e-mail michael.b.lieberum@uscg.mil.
______________

FLEMING KEY BRIDGE / KEY WEST

COAST GUARD & NAVY urge caution while transiting under Fleming Key Bridge in Key West. There's a no-wake zone there while the bridge undergoes structural repairs through mid-December. Members of the boating public may contact the NAS Key West Public Affairs Office at 305-293-2027 with questions or visit http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=InmDistrict&region=7.
______________

BOOT KEY HARBOR BRIDGE DEMOLITION STILL UNDERWAY

The previously announced demolition of the Boot Key Bridge in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, was planned to require two months to complete but is ongoing. The bridge will need to open and close and construction equipment may temporarily block the channel. Entry into this zone is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port, Key West or a designated representative. It is anticipated that daytime drawbridge closures may occur in the near future, prior to the removal of the span. Exact dates/times will be published in future Local Notice to Mariners.

Obviously, boaters could be excluded from entering / exiting Boat Key Harbor, all of this per our Captain John Yeager.
________________________

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y Items

ST. AUGUSTINE MOORING FIELD OPEN

The City of St. Augustine's new Mooring Field is partially open ... Call the Dockmaster's Office - 904-825-1026 - for a mooring and/or more information.
______________

Repeating, Reminding, Repeating ... 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 markers 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!!!' "
______________

BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK

The National Park Service is planning changes for Biscayne National Park's anchoring rules but the time for further study has been extended. In October, it was announced that proposed changes will not be implemented for a few months. No new details have been announced as of late October.

Visit nps.gov/bisc for most recent information which will most probably be updated soon.
______________

FLORIDA KEYS

PENNEKAMP PARK'S 50th ANNIVERSARY

The 50th anniversary of the creation of America's first underwater park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, will be celebrated December 1 - 11 in Key Largo. The park was dedicated December 10, 1960. Visit www.fla-keys.com/pennekamp50 for more on special events and activities.
______________

BAHAMAS

ATLANTIS & COLLEGE BASKETBALL

This seems to be a first! On December 18, Atlantis hosts the Division 1 Men's College Basketball Double-Header. Visit atlantis.com for the details on BASKETBALL IS BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS!
______________

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.

The ELC web site is www.DiscoverELC.org.

ELC Volunteer Open House December 1

If you're interested in learning more about the Indian River environment and possibly volunteering time to support its preservation and education efforts, visit during the Volunteer Open House from 3 'til 5PM on Wednesday, December 1. The staff and volunteers will describe the various opportunities and answer questions.

For more on that contact Nancy Puglio at 772-589-5050 or Nancy@DiscoverELC.org.
______________

BOAT SHOWS

St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show is scheduled for December 2- 5 at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts, Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park in St. Pete. For more information call 954 764-7642 or 800 940-7642 or visit ShowMangement.com.

The 37th Annual Stuart Boat Show featuring the 3rd Annual Cruiser Expo is scheduled for January 14-16 at three locations: HMY's Waterway Marina, 290 N. Dixie Hwy., Allied Marine, 110 N. Dixie Hwy. and Stuart Harbor Marina, 54 N. Dixie Hwy. Visit Cruiserexpo.com and allsportsproductions.net for more information. There will be Free Parking and Free Shuttle Service.

Charlotte County Boat Show is set for January. More on that one later.
______________

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET

Second annual Indian River Nautical Flea Market and Seafood Festival is scheduled for January 15 - 16 in Vero Beach. Go to www.FLNauticalFleaMarket.com for more.
______________

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 and a 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 & FLORIDA SAILING & CRUISING SCHOOL

The Florida Sailing and Cruising School is planning 11% discounts for 2011 ... which double to 22% for June, July and August. It's not too early to plan - and schedule - your 2011 learning experience.

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.
________________________

CHAPTER 3 -The "Back Page" ... News from Fishermen's Village

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.

DECEMBER
Enjoy the "Festival of Lights" theme decorations throughout Fishermen's Village on display through December 31st!

DAY EVENT

1 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily

thru December 31st.

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

2 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily

thru December 31st!

Muttini Mingle, "A Pawtastic Yappy Hour", 5:30-8 pm. Social time for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws 575-7599

for more information. Live Music by Singer/Guitarist Michael Hirst.

3 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily

thru December 31st!

King Fisher Lighted Canal Cruises, December 3rd-31st. A Punta Gorda Tradition! Cruises depart 3 times nightly from

Fishermen's Village. Call 941 639-0969 for rates/reservations.

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

4 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

Book Signing, 4-7 pm at Hooked on Books with James and Sarah Kaserman, authors of Tales from Christmas Trains 1830-2030,

and How the Pirates Saved Christmas.

Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption 2-5 pm in front of Salty Paws.

Visits/Photos with Santa 4-8 pm (bring your camera!)

Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce Lighted Boat Parade. Prominent viewing from Fishermen's Village. Call 941 639-3720 for more

information.

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

5. Live Music by the "Gotta Luv It" Band, 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy holiday tunes as well as music from the 50's, 60's & 70's!

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

6 Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group performs 11:30 am-1 pm Center Stage

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

7 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st

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

9 Night of Worship Music with Broyles and Buddies Ministry, 6-8 pm, Center Stage. Free, public invited to attend.

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st

10 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st

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

11 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st

Book signing at Hooked on Books, 12 Noon - 3 pm, with Camille Blue Amy, author of Marshall and His Green High-Tops, a

beautifully illustrated children's book about a mouse who longs to own a pair of green high-top shoes!

Photos/Visits with Santa 1-5 pm (bring your camera!)

Live Music with 17 year-old Country Singer, Casey Weston, 1-3 pm Center Stage

Singer/Piano Player Pat Walsh performs 5-9 pm Center Stage.

12 Live Music by DOO WOP CREW 1-3 pm Center Stage. Enjoy music from the 50's & 60's!

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

13 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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!

14 Singer/Guitarist Paul Cottrell performs 6-8 pm Center Stage.

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

15 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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

16 Peace River Baptist Church presents their Christmas Cantata, 7 pm, Center Stage. Free.

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

17 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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

18 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

Book Signing at Hooked on Books 12 Noon -2 pm with Wilson Hawthorne, author of The Last Pirate.

Visits/Photos with Santa 1-5 pm (bring your camera!)

Enjoy Christmas Favorites with Singer Brenda Lee Peck, 12 Noon-2 pm, Center Stage

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

19 Live music with "Joy and the Gang," 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Christmas, variety and dance music. Free.

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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

Burnt Store Presbyterian Church Praise Team Christmas Program, 5:30 pm, Center Stage. Free. Public cordially invited to attend.

"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

21 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

22 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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

23 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

Enjoy Christmas Favorites with Singer Brenda Lee Peck, 5-7 pm, Center Stage.

24 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

Christmas Eve, shop 10 am-5 pm

25 MERRY CHRISTMAS! VILLAGE CLOSED

26 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

27 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

28 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

29 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 471 575-8188 for information.

30 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

Live Music with "Deuces Wild Band" 6-8 pm Center Stage

31 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

EVENT: NEW YEAR'S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA, 8 pm-12 Midnight. Free admission! Live music in Center Court, featuring "Soul Machine"! Other family friendly activities include Luis the Balloon Man, Airbrush Art for Face and Body. Call 941 639-8721 for more details.

NOV

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.

____________

IMPORTANT INFORMATION on our NEXT FCD FOR MARINE BUSINESSES!!!
Florida and Bahamas marine businesses should contact us if they have not received information for our next edition's update. (Your e-mail could be among those returned for better addressing!) Appreciate your note at info@floridacruising.com. Just company name and city should give us what we need to get the information to you.

The next printed edition of the annual FCD will be accompanied by a NEW INTERACTIVE WEB SITE and E-BOOK. Everybody who enjoys boats and the water is invited go to www.floridacruising.com/test to try out the new site demo.

It is an incomplete work-in- progress, based on the current edition of the FCD's coverage of the East Coast of Florida from the state line through the Gold Coast, plus the St. Johns River and Okeechobee Waterway.

Enjoy your "cruise" of the demo and see how your click on a web address in any ad takes you to that advertiser's web site. Click on indicated mentions in the text about museums, parks, area attractions or activities and just click to go to them.. It's great and it allows us to present more than a boating book can cover in its pages. We call these things the "sidelights of the highlights of cruising" and we're glad to be able to make them easily available to you.

Your comments and ideas for the final version of the site are appreciated. E-mail us about your "test cruise" at info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!

_____________

EVERYONE'S INVITED TO TRY OUR NEW INTERACTIVE WEB SITE TEST

Go to www.floridacruising.com/test to try out the demo/test on our new INTERACTIVE WEB SITE being prepared for the 2011/2012 FCD, when the printed book will be joined by an E-BOOK and the new web site.

The test is based on the current book and includes only the east coast of Florida from Georgia through the Gold Coast, the St. Johns River and the Okeechobee Waterway. As the "home page" explains, this is an incomplete work-in-progress and some elements planned for the completed book (e.g., Boat Ramps) have not been included. There will not be another test ... so take a "cruise" on this demo. We welcome any comments and suggestions that may help us make the 2011/12 site even better! Send us a note ... info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!

____________

AS ANNOUNCED IN OCTOBER ... NEW WEB UPDATE FORMAT

Our Web Site Updates, on or about the first of each month continue in three new "chapters."

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y items

and

CHAPTER 3 - News from Fishermen's Village

(We'll continue to give "the Village" events our web site update "back page" as long as they continue to provide their event calendar each month! (Other events we learn about will be included in Chapter 2.)

Don't forget: you can refer back to web site updates as they are "here" for one year.
____________

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

OUR COVERAGE ON CORPS OF ENGINEERS & FWC PROJECTS CHANGES A BIT

The US Army's Corps of Engineers web site: www.saj.usace.army.mil has a wealth of information for boating people. Their coverage of the Okeechobee Waterway and projects such as inlet dredging are excellent. Instead of publishing complete press releases, however, from now on our plan is to note the news and suggest that persons interested in particular projects or areas just go to the site for more complete information

A similar change follows on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission coverage by us.

OKEECHOBEE WATERWAY, FLORIDA NOTICES & INFORMATION

Most recent information on the Okeechobee Waterway is included in last two updates ...

Visit /http://www.saj.usace.army.milDivisions/Operations/index.htm for more.

The latest Navigation Report can be found at:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/Navigation/NavNotices.htm

Additional information concerning Okeechobee Waterway or other Navigational interests may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing the OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.

____________

DREDGING OPERATIONS JOHNS PASS AND BLIND PASS RELATED TO BEACH EROSION CONTROL PROJECT, PINELLAS COUNTY, FLORIDA, BEACH RENOURISHMENT 2010, LONG KEY AND TREASURE ISLAND.

See September update for complete notice.

Dredging Operations have been be taking place in Johns Pass and vicinity and Blind Pass and vicinity since 19 July and are scheduled to continue until 16 December 2010.

Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http:///www.saj.sace.army.mil. Choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. US Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Allan D. Morris (Operations Manager) (904) 232-2258.

Maintenance Dredging, Canaveral Harbor, FL

See September update for complete notice.

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.

____________

FWC UPDATE — Notes on Openings, Closings, Rule Changes
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (a/k/a FWC) has been doing a great job of keeping us up to date on changes that fishermen, and even cruising-fishermen, should know and other items of interest to boating people. We have, however, decided that instead of printing all Press Releases, from now on we'll just give a quick note on the news and suggest that those interested in specific topics check it all out at the FWC web site.

The site also has information on boating, parks, ramps, etc., etc. and we'll hope to include news on anything we think you'll want to know about.

FWC's web site is www.MyFWC.com and it usually has complete information on everything!

ATLANTIC VERMILION SNAPPER & SOUTHERN FLORIDA SPOTTED SEATROUT SEASONS

... ARE CLOSED, as of November 1, in state and federal waters.

Vermilion Snapper is prohibited in Atlantic state and federal waters off Florida from November 1 until April 1. Spotted Seatrout 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, approx. 1.17mi. s. of the Pinellas/Pasco county line in the Gulf of Mexico.

RED SNAPPER HARVEST WEEKENDS

FWC has announced that "bonus recreational red snapper harvest weekends" have begun in the Gulf of Mexico state and federal waters off Florida and continue through Sunday, November 21. Anglers, except for captain and crew of for-hire vessels, may keep two red snapper greater than 16" total length per person on the "bonus" days.

For more info visit MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing- Saltwater).

RED SNAPPER Bonus Season

FWC has good news for angers! The recreational harvest season for red snapper in Gulf of Mexico state waters has been reopened. Visit MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing - Saltwater).

More information on all of this at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS. Click on "Fishing-Saltwater."
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INFO ON REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES

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.

New note, late September, 2010

"Once the new beams are placed on the center span the contractor will be placing navigation lights on the bridge to mark one side of the channel through the swing bridge. Mariners are advised to remain vigilant when passing through this area as there are various barges and floating equipment near the navigable channel." (Ref: LNM 15 through 52-09, 01 through 37-10 and MSIB 29, 30, 35-09 and 04-10. Chart 11485 CG File: 3854)

See September update for complete notice.

Mariners wishing to comment on this temporary change may e-mail michael.b.lieberum@uscg.mil.

BOOT KEY HARBOR BRIDGE DEMOLITION STILL UNDERWAY

The previously announced demolition of the Boot Key Bridge in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, was planned to require two months to complete. The bridge will need to open and close and construction equipment may temporarily block the channel. Entry into this zone is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port, Key West or a designated representative. It is anticipated that daytime drawbridge closures may occur in the near future, prior to the removal of the span. Exact dates/times will be published in future Local Notice to Mariners.

Obviously, boaters could be excluded from entering / exiting Boat Key Harbor, all of this per our Captain John Yeager.
____________

The new MATLACHA bridge has been approved. Two-year construction project has begun and completion is set for two years from now.
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CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y Items

NORTH LIGHT YACHT CLUB NEWEST CM

News from DEP received October 22 reports that the North Light Yacht Club in Niceville has been designated as the 220th member of the Florida Clean Marina Program. The club is listed on Chart 23 in the current FCD.
____________

ST. AUGUSTINE MOORING FIELD OPEN

The City of St. Augustine's new Mooring Field is partially open ... Call the Dockmaster's Office - 904-825-1026 - for a mooring and/or more information.
____________

FLORIDA KEYS

LADIES LET'S GO FISHING SEMINAR NOVEMBER in ISLAMORADA

The "No-Yelling School of Fishing" for ladies has announced their November event will be held in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Holiday Isle Resort & Marina is the site for ladies to learn from presentations on offshore, bottom, inshore and fly fishing and more from several speakers. Such skills as releasing, conservation, knot tying and bait rigging are also scheduled as part of the curriculum.

For more information, visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com or e-mail billfishbetty@hotmail.com.
____________

SEVEN SEAS CRUISING ASSOCIATION

The Seven Seas Cruising Association has announced their annual GAM for Eau Gallie Civic Center in Melbourne, November 11 - 13. Visit ssca.org for more information.
____________

DUTCH CARIBBEAN's Golden Rock Regatta

No, we're not extending our coverage to the Netherlands Antilles, but Friend of the FCD, Patsy Bolling, has asked us to help spread the word about the 6th Golden Rock Regatta set for November. The regatta starts in St. Maarten to finish on Statia. It runs from November 13th to the 17th.

Sailors cruising - or racing - in the area will enjoy the excitement of the big race.

To learn more, visit www.goldenrockregatta.com.
____________

BOAT SHOWS

The big Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show opened as scheduled and ends November 1. Visit showmanagement.com for the nitty-gritty on the times, areas, etc., etc.. etc. if you plan to go on the final day.

While you're there, you can check out December's St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show information, scheduled for December 2- 5.

The 38th Annual Fort Myers Boat Show is scheduled for November 11-14 at the Harborside Convention Center - City Yacht Basin. Visit fortmyersboatshow.com for details.

The Charlotte County Boat Show is set for January. More on that one later.
____________

FORT LAUDERDALE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT #45

The FORT LAUDERDALE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT has scheduled its 45th tournament for November 18-21. Visit www.lauderdalebillfish.com for more information.
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NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET

Second annual Indian River Nautical Flea Market and Seafood Festival is scheduled for January 15 - 16 in Vero Beach. Go to www.FLNauticalFleaMarket.com for more.
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CHAPTER 3 -The "Back Page" ... News from Fishermen's Village

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.

NOVEMBER
Enjoy the "Festival of Lights" themed decorations throughout Fishermen's Village on display November 20th through December 31st!

Day Event

1

2

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

4 Muttini Mingle, "A Pawtastic Yappy Hour" 5:30-8 pm. Social time for people and their pets! Call Salty Paws 575-7599 for more information. Live Music by Singer/Guitarist Michael Hirst.

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

6 Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption 1-3 pm in front of Salty Paws.
Youth Singer/Guitar Player Mike Imbasciani performs classic rock and blues, 5-9 pm Center Stage

7 EVENT: MUSTANG CLUB OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY CAR SHOW, 11 am-3 pm Village parking lot. Over 100 cars spanning the decades! Free admission. Come vote for your favorite People's Choice winner. Award ceremony 3 pm, Center Stage. Call 941 637-9461 for more information.

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

9 Live Music featuring Christian Singer Susie Brenner, 5-7 pm, Center Stage.

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

11 Veteran's Day Ceremony, 11 am-1 pm Center Court, presented by Military Heritage Museum. Call 575-9002 for more details
"War Tales" at the Military Heritage Museum, 3-6 pm. Call 575-9002 for more details.
Live Music with Singer Dona Marie, 5-7 pm, Center Court.
Antique Auto Show Display, Village Parking Lot, presented by Veterans Motor Car Club of America.

12 LIFESTYLES AFTER 50 "KEEPIN' KOOL" CELEBRATION EXPO, 10 am-4 pm, presented by Mature Lifestyles Magazine! Free admission, free parking. Register to win great prizes, enjoy live entertainment, shopping, and dining! Interested in Exhibiting, visit www.swfseniorproductions.com for details!
CONCERT PERFORMANCE BY "PATCHOULI", 5-9 PM, Center Stage. Acoustic Singer/Songwriter duo presenting folk, flamenco, jazz and world beat rhythms. All-ages family-friendly combination of beautiful harmonies and dazzling flamenco inspired instrumentals.

13 EVENT: Alzheimer's Memory Walk presented by the Altzheimer's Association, 9:00 am, Center Court. Contact 727 578-2558 for more information.
EVENT: Flu Shots by Visiting Nurses Assn., 9:30 am-12 Noon. Nominal fees. Call 239 337-4848 for more information.
Singer/Piano Player Pat Walsh, 5-9 pm Center Stage.

14 Live Music by DOO WOP CREW 1-3 pm, Center Stage. Enjoy music from the 50's and 60's!

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

16

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

18 Burnt Store Presbyterian Church PRAISE TEAM performance 5:30-7 pm, Center Stage. Free admission!

19 Punta Gorda's own Jim Morris, 5-9 pm Center Stage. Tropical Rock music

20 EVENT: Village annual "Festival of Lights"! Festivities begin at 5:30 pm and continue until 9 pm. You are invited to join us as we kick off the Holiday Season in Grand Style! Events include: Official Ribbon Cutting with Dignitaries and Santa, Lee County Pipes and Drums, Dickens Carolers from the Charlotte Chorale, Luis The Balloon Man, Airbrush Art for Face & Body, Horse Drawn Carriage Rides by TKM Stables, Complimentary Refreshments, Pictures with Santa (bring your camera!), Live Music & Dancing 5-9 pm, Center Stage featuring THE BOOGIEMEN! View beautiful holiday decor in stores and throughout the Village! Over one million lights on display! Call 941 639-8721 for more information.

21 Peace River Center for Writers "Celebrate Authors", 12 Noon-5 pm. Free Admission. Meet and Greet with area authors, open mic, entertainment. Call 941 637-3514 for more information.
"Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

22 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

23 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

24 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!
Country Line Dance Lessons, $3/person, 7-9 pm, Center Court. Call 941 575-8188 for information.

25 HAPPY THANKSGIVING! VILLAGE CLOSED

26 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!
EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS BEGIN! Shop 10 am-8 pm today! Enjoy over a million lights in themed decorations throughout the inside and outside of Fishermen's Village on display daily through December 31st!
Reconnections Band performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm Center Stage

27 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!
Visits/photos with Santa 1-7 pm (bring your camera!)
EVENT: Lighted Christmas Golf Cart Parade at Fishermen's Village! Parade begins at 6 pm. For more information call Doug Buck 941 626-6627. Register now! images/Christmas Lighted Golf Cart Parade Application.doc
Singer / Piano player Pat Walsh performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage

28 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!
Live Music with the Reconnections Band, 2-5 pm Center Stage
Four Leaf Strummers Banjo Group 11:30 am-1 pm, Center Stage

29 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

30 "Festival of Lights" - view over one million lights and themed decorations throughout the Village daily thru December 31st!

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 ...

OCTOBER 2010

IMPORTANT INFORMATION on our NEXT FCD FOR MARINE BUSINESSES!!!
Florida and Bahamas marine businesses should contact us if they have not received information for our next edition's update. (Your e-mail could be among those returned for better addressing!) Appreciate your contacting us at info@floridacruising.com. Just company name and city should give us what we need to get the information to you.

The next printed edition of the annual FCD will be accompanied by a NEW INTERACTIVE WEB SITE and E-BOOK. Everybody who enjoys boats and the water is invited go to www.floridacruising.com/test to try out the new site demo.

It is an incomplete work-in- progress, based on the current edition of the FCD's coverage of the East Coast of Florida from the state line through the Gold Coast, plus the St. Johns River and Okeechobee Waterway.

Enjoy your "cruise" of the demo and see how your click on a web address in any ad takes you to that advertiser's web site. Click on indicated mentions in the text about museums, parks, area attractions or activities and just click to go to them. It's great and it allows us to present more than a boating book can cover in its pages. We call these things the "sidelights of the highlights of cruising" and we're glad to be able to make them easily available to you.

Your comments and ideas for the final version of the site are appreciated. E-mail us about your "test cruise" at info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!

______________

EVERYONE'S INVITED TO TRY OUR NEW INTERACTIVE WEB SITE TEST

Go to www.floridacruising.com/test to try out the demo/test on our new INTERACTIVE WEB SITE being prepared for the 2011/2012 FCD, when the printed book will be joined by an E-BOOK and the new web site.

The test is based on the current book and includes only the east coast of Florida from Georgia through the Gold Coast, the St. Johns River and the Okeechobee Waterway. As the "home page" explains, this is an incomplete work-in-progress and some elements planned for the completed book (e.g., Boat Ramps) have not been included. There will not be another test ... so take a "cruise" on this demo. We welcome any comments and suggestions that may help us make the 2011/12 site even better! Send us a note ... info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!

______________

NEW WEB UPDATE FORMAT

Our Web Site Updates, on or about the first of each month continue in three new "chapters."

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y items

and

CHAPTER 3 - News from Fishermen's Village

(We'll continue to give "the Village" events our web site update "back page" as long as they continue to provide their event calendar each month! (Other events we learn about will be included in Chapter 2.)

Don't forget, currently, web site updates are kept for one year.
______________

CHAPTER 1 - News & Regulations from COE, FWC and others, including Bridge information

OUR COVERAGE ON CORPS OF ENGINEERS & FWC PROJECTS CHANGES A BIT

The US Army's Corps of Engineers web site: www.saj.usace.army.mil has a wealth of information for boating people. Their coverage of the Okeechobee Waterway and projects such as inlet dredging are excellent. Instead of publishing complete press releases, however, from now on our plan is to note the news and suggest that persons interested in particular projects or areas just go to the site for more complete information.

A similar change follows on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission coverage by us.

OKEECHOBEE WATERWAY, FLORIDA NOTICES & INFORMATION

Most recent information on the Okeechobee Waterway is included in our last update ...

Visit http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/index.htm for more.

The latest Navigation Report can be found at:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/Navigation/NavNotices.htm

Additional information concerning Okeechobee Waterway or other Navigational interests may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing the OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.
_______________

DREDGING OPERATIONS JOHNS PASS AND BLIND PASS RELATED TO BEACH EROSION CONTROL PROJECT, PINELLAS COUNTY, FLORIDA, BEACH RENOURISHMENT 2010, LONG KEY AND TREASURE ISLAND.

See last month's update for complete notice.

Dredging Operations have been taking place in Johns Pass and vicinity and Blind Pass and vicinity since 19 July and are scheduled to continue until 16 December 2010.

Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http:///www.saj.sace.army.mil. Choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. US Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Allan D. Morris (Operations Manager) (904) 232-2258.

Maintenance Dredging, Canaveral Harbor, FL

See last month's update for complete notice.

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.
______________

FWC UPDATE — Notes on Openings, Closings, Rule Changes
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (a/k/a FWC) has been doing a great job of keeping us up to date on changes that fishermen, and even cruising-fishermen, should know and other items of interest to boating people. We have, however, decided that instead of printing all Press Releases, from now on we'll just give a quick note on the news and suggest that those interested in specific topics just check it all out at the FWC web site.

The site also has information on boating, parks, ramps, etc., and we'll hope to include news on anything we think you'll want to know about.

FWC's web site is www.MyFWC.com and it usually has complete information on everything!

The following note on Lobster Season has been included here before and bears repeating, we think!

LOBSTER SEASON HAS BEGUN! - Regular commercial and recreational - August 6 - March 31
Check out everything you need to know: Limits, Licenses, Permits, special Monroe County Rules and more at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS.

NEWS: September Announcement

The FWC has approved new rules for conserving Florida's threatened species. The Commission's unanimous vote came after two and a half years of meetings with the public and stakeholders. Florida now has a system that will focus attention on what is needed to conserve threatened and endangered species, rather than on what the species are called. Besides a list that designates Florida's threatened species, it provides a holistic management system that also includes conservation actions and goals, the public, research, policy, incentives and rules, enforcement and other components necessary to conserve Florida's wildlife.
For more, visit www.MyFWC.com/Newsroom and click on the headline for this story.

RED SNAPPER HARVEST WEEKENDS

FWC has announced that "bonus recreational red snapper harvest weekends" will begin in the Gulf of Mexico state and federal waters off Florida for eight consecutive three-day weekends beginning Friday, October 1 through Sunday, November 21. Anglers, except for captain and crew of for-hire vessels, may keep two red snapper greater than 16" total length per person on the "bonus" days.

For more info visit MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing- Saltwater).

BLUE CRAB Rule Changes proposed

FWC has proposed a series of rule amendments on blue crab regulations. A public hearing will be held in December in Weston. Visit MyFWC.com/Commission for more, linked from the September 1-3 meeting.

REDFISH Bag Limit proposed

FWC has proposed a series of rule amendments on redfish regulations. A public hearing will be held in December in Weston. Visit MyFWC.com/Commission for more, linked from the September 1-3 meeting.

RED SNAPPER Bonus Season

FWC has good news for angers! The recreational harvest season for red snapper in Gulf of Mexico state waters has been reopened. Visit MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing - Saltwater).

ATLANTIC SNOOK

FWC has reopened the recreational harvest season for snook in Florida's Atlantic waters. Only catch-and-release fishing for snook has been allowed statewide. More info at MyFWC.com/Rules (click on Fishing - Saltwater).

REPEATING in OCTOBER - STONE CRAB
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.

More information on all of this at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS. Click on "Fishing-Saltwater."
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INFO ON REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES

ATLANTIC ICW -

TOLOMATO RIVER TO PALM SHORES — A. MAX BREWER BRIDGE, Mile 878.9, Titusville is being replaced with a high-level fixed bridge. This work will continue through April 2011.

New note, late September, 2010

"Once the new beams are placed on the center span the contractor will be placing navigation lights on the bridge to mark one side of the channel through the swing bridge. Mariners are advised to remain vigilant when passing through this area as there are various barges and floating equipment near the navigable channel." (Ref: LNM 15 through 52-09, 01 through 37-10 and MSIB 29, 30, 35-09 and 04-10. Chart 11485 CG File: 3854)

See last month's update for complete notice.

Mariners wishing to comment on this temporary change may e-mail michael.b.lieberum@uscg.mil.
__________

BOOT KEY HARBOR BRIDGE

The previously announced demolition of the Boot Key Bridge in Boot Key Harbor, Marathon, will require two months to complete. The bridge will need to open and close and construction equipment may temporarily block the channel. Entry into this zone is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the Captain of the Port, Key West or a designated representative. It is anticipated that daytime drawbridge closures may occur in the near future, prior to the removal of the span. Exact dates/times will be published in future Local Notice to Mariners.

Obviously, boaters could be excluded from entering / exiting Boat Key Harbor, all of this per our Captain John Yeager.
____________

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. Work is scheduled to be completed by October 31, 2010.
____________

The new MATLACHA bridge has been approved. A two-year construction project has begun and completion is set for two years from now.

_______________

CHAPTER 2 - News-y & Cruise-y Items

ST. AUGUSTINE MOORING FIELD OPEN

The City of St. Augustine's new Mooring Field is partially open ... Call the Dockmaster's Office - 904-825-1026 - for a mooring and/or more information.
_______________

Repeating, Reminding, Repeating ... 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 markers 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!!!' "
________________

BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK

The National Park Service is planning changes for Biscayne National Park's anchoring rules.

We received word - too late for inclusion in last month's update - but, we have since found out that because of many, many comments received, the time for further study has been extended. Proposed changes will not be implemented for a few months. We do not have details yet but suggest that all of us keep watching for further information!

Visit nps.gov/bisc for most recent information which will most probably be updated soon.
_______________

FLORIDA KEYS

FANTASY FEST & GOOMBAY FESTIVAL

Visit www.goombay-keywest.org to learn more about the Goombay Festival scheduled for Key West's Fanstasy Fest late October. Fantasy Fest runs from October 22 - October 31 and there's more on that at fantasyfest.net.
_______________

LADIES LET'S GO FISHING SEMINAR NOVEMBER in ISLAMORADA

The "No-Yelling School of Fishing" for ladies has announced their November event will be held in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Holiday Isle Resort & Marina is the site for ladies to learn from presentations on offshore, bottom, inshore and fly fishing and more from several speakers. Such skills as releasing, conservation, knot tying and bait rigging are also scheduled as part of the curriculum.

For more information, visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com or e-mail billfishbetty@hotmail.com.
_______________

BAHAMAS

ATLANTIS' Fall Special EXTENDED AGAIN

If you're not cruising over to Nassau's Paradise Island soon, you may want to take advantage of A Fall Special - stay 3 nights and get the 4th night free, plus companion airfare and more. Travel by December 22 and receive the ATLANTIS EXPERIENCE PASS, loaded with dolphin swims, golf, cocktails and much more.

The latest extension includes 4th Night Free and Free Companion Airfare for travel through February 16.

Book by October 13 - Call 888-879-7259.

ATLANTIS & COLLEGE BASKETBALL

This seems to be a first! On December 18, Atlantis hosts the Division 1 Men's College Basketball Double-Header. Visit atlantis.com for the details on BASKETBALL IS BETTER IN THE BAHAMAS!
__________

SEVEN SEAS CRUISING ASSOCIATION

The Seven Seas Cruising Association has announced their annual GAM for Eau Gallie Civic Center in Melbourne, November 11 - 13. Visit ssca.org for more information.
___________

DUTCH CARIBBEAN's Golden Rock Regatta

No, we're not extending our coverage to the Netherlands Antilles, but Friend of the FCD, Patsy Bolling, has asked us to help spread the word about the 6th Golden Rock Regatta set for November starting from St. Maarten to finish on Statia. The regatta takes place from the 13th to the 17th and it seems that some area yachts are still available for charter.

Sailors cruising - or racing - in the area will enjoy the excitement of the big race.

To learn more, visit www.goldenrockregatta.com.
_____________

BOAT SHOWS

The big Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is set to open October 28. Visit showmanagement.com for the nitty-gritty on the times, areas, etc., etc.. etc.

While you're there, you can check out early December's St. Petersburg Boat Show information.
______________

Looking ahead to November, the Fort Myers Boat Show is scheduled for November 11-14 at the Harborside Convention Center - City Yacht Basin. Visit fortmyersboatshow.com for details.
______________

FORT LAUDERDALE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT #45

The FORT LAUDERDALE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT has scheduled its 45th tournament for November 18-21. Visit www.lauderdalebillfish.com for more information.
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS CHARTER "STIMULUS" THROUGH OCTOBER / SAILING AND CRUISING SCHOOL CLASSES - WITH DISCOUNTS - SET FOR 2011. NEW MAINSHIP 40 TRAWLER JOINS CHARTER FLEET

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'.

Their Florida Sailing and Cruising School is planning 11% discounts for 2011 ... which double to 22% for June, July and August. It's not too early for you to plan - and schedule - your 2011 learning experience.

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.
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CHAPTER 3 -The "Back Page" ... News from Fishermen's Village

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 Boat U.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.

OCTOBER

Day Event

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

2 "Think Pink On The Pier" Breast Cancer Awareness fundraising event, 10 am-6 pm. Benefits American Cancer Society and Susan G. Koman Foundation. Memorial Walk, Bra Decorating Contest, Educational Symposium and more! Participating merchants will be offering Pink on the Pier merchandise with a percentage of sales donated to Breast Cancer Awareness. Live entertainment 4-8 pm presented by "He Said, She Said"!
Call 575-3067 for details. REGISTER NOW FOR MEMORIAL WALK!

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

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

7 Muttini Mingle, "A Pawtastic Yappy Hour", 5:30-8 pm. Social time for people and their pets. Call Salty Paws 575-7599 for more information. Live Music by Singer / Guitarist Michael Hirst.

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

9 Fishermen's Village annual OKTOBERFEST. Events include: East Elementary School PTO Pumpkin Patch; SW Florida German Shepherd Schutzhund Club obedience training demos 10:30 am & 1 pm; performances by Peace River, East Elementary and Sallie Jones School Chorus 11:30 am-12:30 pm; Live Music 1-3 pm featuring the Steinswingers and Peter and Edith performing your favorite German tunes 4-8 pm, Center Stage. Village restaurants will feature German food specialties. You can also vote for your favorite Scarecrow! Just stop in participating merchant stores and vote for your chance to win a $100 gift certificate! Call 575-3067 for details.

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11 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!

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

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15 Singer / Songwriter Roy Schneider performs acoustic lite rock music, 5-9 pm Center Stage

16 Youth Singer / Performer, Mike Imbasciani performs classic rock and blues, 5-9 pm Center Stage

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19 "Southern Express" performs 5:30-7:30 pm Center Stage! Come enjoy dinner, great music and dance the night away!

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

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22 Singer / Piano Player Pat Walsh performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage

23 Salty Paws BARKTOBERFEST Pet Costume Contest, 11 am-1 pm, Center Court. Pre registration required. Call 575-7599 for more information.

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

24 Harpoon Harry's Halloween Extravaganza 12 Noon-4 pm. Costume Contests for various age groups, entertainment, fun and games! Free. Call 637-1177 for more details!

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

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29 Fishermen's Village Fall Boat Show, 10 am-6 pm. In Water and On Land! Come enjoy the day at the Village with area boat dealers and vendors! Browse the Village shops, dine and relax! Call Harbormaster at 575-3056 for more information!

National Recording Artist CHRIS MACARTHUR performs original and country classics 5-9 pm Center Stage

30 Fishermen's Village Fall Boat Show, 10 am-6 pm. In Water and On Land! Come enjoy the day at the Village with area boat dealers and vendors! Browse the Village shops, dine and relax! Call Harbormaster at 575-3056 for more information!

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

31 Fishermen's Village Fall Boat Show, 10 am-5pm. In Water and On Land! Come enjoy the day at the Village with area boat dealers and vendors! Browse the Village shops, dine and relax! Call Harbormaster at 575-3056 for more information!
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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 ...
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HAPPY HALLOWEEN

September 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!

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.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION on our NEXT FCD FOR MARINE BUSINESSES!!!
We've been attempting to contact Florida and Bahamas marine businesses by phone and e-mail over several weeks to tell about our new digital direction and updates for edit and advertising. That project is ongoing into September — but if you have not heard from us recently your e-mail could be among those returned for better addressing! Appreciate your e-mailing us: info@floridacruising.com. Just company name and city should give us what we need to get the information to you.

AND MORE NEWS FOR THEM AND EVERYBODY WHO LOVES BOATS AND THE WATER. (That pretty much includes all industry people ... and cruisers ...)
The next printed edition of the annual FCD will be accompanied by a NEW INTERACTIVE WEB SITE and E-BOOK. Everybody who enjoys boats and the water is invited go to www.floridacruing.com/test to try out the new site demo.

It is an incomplete work-in- progress, based on the current edition of the FCD's coverage of the East Coast of Florida from the state line through the Gold Coast, plus the St. Johns River and Okeechobee Waterway.

Enjoy your "cruise" of the demo and see how your click on a web address in any ad takes you to that advertiser's web site. Click on indicated mentions in the text about museums, parks, area attractions or activities and just click to go to them.. It's great! It allows us to present more than a boating book can cover in its pages. We call these things the "sidelights of the highlights of cruising" and we're glad to be able to make them easily available to you.

Your comments and ideas for the final version of the site are appreciated. E-mail us about your "test cruise" at info@floridacruising.com.

And thanks!
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NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS
OKEECHOBEE WATERWAY, FLORIDA

1 July 2010

1 Mariners are advised that Route 2 is and has been open since 9 February 2009. Conditions of Route 2 are as follows:

a) Route 2: Based on the 2008 Channel Condition Survey, the minimum depth of Route 2 at a Lake elevation of 13.98 feet-NGVD is 5.32 ft.

"Note: Adjusted depth is already reduced by two feet due to shoaling in Route 2. See link for access to recent Survey information and updated Notice to Navigation Reports — Ed. insert: Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil, choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.

b) Mariners are advised that if they transit Route 2, to take precautions according to prevailing weather; adhere to Route 2 marked channel, avoiding uncharted waters; and be aware that depths could drop at any time.

c. Additional information concerning Lake Okeechobee and the adjoining waterway may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site:

http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/index.htm.

d) The latest Navigation Report can be found at:
http://www.saj.usace.army.mil/Divisions/Operations/Branches/Navigation/NavNotices.htm

(Not including conditions mentioned for Route 1 and Route 2 for 29 June in July 1 Report.)

Additional information concerning Okeechoebee Waterway or other Navigational interests may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http://www.saj.usace.army.mil and choosing the OPERATIONS DIVISION tab and selecting the NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu.

Repeating, Reminding, Repeating ... 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 markers 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!!!' "
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NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS
(Repeating ... This project scheduled to continue through December, 2010.)

CESAJ-CO-OM (1130)
2 July, 2010

DREDGING OPERATIONS JOHNS PASS AND BLIND PASS RELATED TO BEACH EROSION CONTROL PROJECT, PINELLAS COUNTY, FLORIDA, BEACH RENOURISHMENT 2010, LONG KEY AND TREASURE ISLAND.

Dredging Operations will be taking place in Johns Pass and vicinity and Blind Pass and vicinity between 19 July and 16 December 2010 related to the above project. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Johns Pass and vicinity and Blind Pass and vicinity. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to dredging operations, floating pipeline and large equipment working in and along the navigation channels. Mariners should closely monitor channels 13/16 in these areas.

Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http:///www.saj.sace.army.mil. Choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. US Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Allan D. Morris (Operations Manager) (904) 232-2258.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

(signed)
Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.
Chief, Operations Division

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

NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS
CESAJ-CO-OM (1130)
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 disposes 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
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INFO ON REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES

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. In late July, the contractor scheduled a closure of the waterway due to the placement of the center channel beams. 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 has been authorized: 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. Work is scheduled to be completed by October 31, 2010.

BOOT KEY HARBOR BRIDGE demolition is set for completion on September 10.

The new MATLACHA bridge has been approved and construction is due to start September 13 with completion set for two years hence. This per one of our favorite bridge tenders, Alvy Saunders.
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FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings, Rule Changes
LOBSTER SEASON HAS BEGUN! - Regular commercial and recreational - August 6 - March 31
Check out everything you need to know: Limits, Licenses, Permits, special Monroe County Rules and more at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS.

SWORDFISH / STONE CRAB / SNOOK

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 were expected to take effect early August but we have not received the usual Press Release on that yet .
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REPEATING in SEPTEMBER
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.
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The previously announced Snook closure has been extended through September 16.
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More information on all of this at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS. Click on "Fishing-Saltwater."

NEWS / 8/27/10 - FWC SEEKS INPUT ON POSSIBLE RED DRUM REGULATION CHANGES

The FWC is considering creating regional management areas for red drum and raising the daily bag limit from one fish to two per person in Northeast and Northwest Florida. The Commission also seeks public comment on possible red drum rule changes for Southeast Florida.

Interested people are encouraged to attend workshops scheduled from September 8 through December 1 around the state. Go to MyFWC.com/Rules, click on "Marine Advisory Boats, Public Workshops, etc." for the places and times.

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MANATEE ISLAND NEW IN MANATEE POCKET

Manatee Island Bar & Grill has replaced the former Bare Bones which moved inland to downtown Stuart some months ago. The new restaurant "at the end of Manatee Pocket" (4817 SE Dixie Hwy.) has quite a menu of seafood, chicken and meat dishes plus salads, sandwiches and more. Call them at 772-872-7288 or visit www.manateeislandbarandgrill.com.
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LADIES LET'S GO FISHING SEMINAR NOVEMBER in ISLAMORADA

The "No-Yelling School of Fishing" for ladies has announced their November event will be held in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Holiday Isle Resort & Marina is the site for ladies to learn from presentations on offshore, bottom, inshore and fly fishing and more from several speakers. Such skills as releasing, conservation, knot tying and bait rigging are also scheduled as part of the curriculum.

For more information, visit www.ladiesletsgofishing.com or e-mail billfishbetty@hotmail.com.
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BAHAMAS

ATLANTIS' Fall Special EXTENDED

If you're not cruising over to Nassau's Paradise Island soon, you may want to take advantage of A Fall Special - stay 3 nights and get the 4th night free, plus companion airfare and more - just extended. Book by September 15, travel through December 22. Call 888-879-7259.

FIRST REPORT FROM OUR NEW EDITORS —

Capt. & Mrs. Bob Tower have recently returned from cruising the islands and gave us a quick report for this update.

They say that although there is no dockage at Walker's Cay, the airport is operational and Customs Clearance is available there.

They spent some time at Grand Cay, just south of Walker's, and found two great places to visit.

Rosie's Place (run by Rosie Curry) has dockage, gas & diesel, water, electric, rooms to rent and a restaurant. Phone is 242-353-1201. Next door is Club Med at Coopers Cove (run by Maxwell Cooper) has a grill and rooms to rent. The phone is 242-439-2045.
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THE KEYS

Key West's City Marinas have NEW PHONE NUMBERS. You can fix them on Chart 15 in your FCD ...

Key West City Marina at Garrison Bight is 305-809-3981; Key West Bight Marina (downtown) is 305-809-3984. _____

ST. PETERSBURG OFFICE SPACE

Sailor's Wharf Marine Complex in St. Petersburg's Salt Creek area has offices for rent. Contact Jopie Helsen at 800-879-2244 x 206 or email jopie@sailorswharf.com. To get a look at it go to www.sailorswharf.com/officerentals.htm.

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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.

The Nature Nook gift shop is having the big annual sale through September.

The ELC Education Coordinator can tell you about their Master Naturalist course at 771-589-5050 or check it out at www.MasterNaturalist.org.

The ELC web site is www.DiscoverELC.org.
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BOAT SHOWS

The Tampa Boat Show is scheduled for September 10 - 12 on land in water at the Tampa Convention Center. Admission is $9 for adults (16 and older), FREE for kids 15 and under. Free admission for military personnel, EMTs, Fire Fighters and Police on September 11 with valid ID.

Pre-purchase adult tickets on-line for a $2 discount and more information at TampaBoatShow.com
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The big Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is set to open October 28
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Looking ahead to November, the Fort Myers Boat Show is scheduled for November 11-14
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NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET

Martin County Nautical Flea Market & Seafood Festival is scheduled for September 17 - 19 at Martin County Fairgrounds in Stuart. They promise lots of "Nautical Bargains" and will even have new and used boats for sale. Visit www.flnauticalfleamarket.com for more info or call 954 205-7813.

FORT LAUDERDALE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT #45

The FORT LAUDERDALE BILLFISH TOURNAMENT has scheduled its 45th tournament for November 18-21. Visit www.lauderdalebillfish.com for more information.

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 and a 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.
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS CHARTER "STIMULUS" THROUGH OCTOBER / SAILING AND CRUISING SCHOOL CLASSES - WITH DISCOUNTS - SET FOR 2011

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'.

Their Florida Sailing and Cruising School is planning 11% discounts for 2011 ... which double to 22% for June, July and August. It's not too early for you to plan - and schedule - your 2011 learning experience.

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

2 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.

3 Destined performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm Center Stage

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

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

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6 LABOR DAY. Stores open 10 am-6pm

Labor Day Party at Harpoon Harry's Hogg Roast - Corn Hole Game Hula Hoop Contest - Trivia - Kids Games, Live music by The Crashers, 1-5 pm

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

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

11 EVENT: 2ND ANNUAL PIRATE'S DAY FESTIVAL!

Come to the Village in your best "pirate attire" all ye mateys and wenches! Fun activities for the entire family beginning at 11 am with the Pirates Parade, Pirate Flotilla Invasion at Noon and tours aboard the Ponce De Leon Conquistadors ship until 6 pm. Pirate theatrical antics featuring "Bitter End Krewe" will be featured throughout the day, as well as a Children's costume contest, and Belly Dancers. There will be lots of live music with strolling minstrels. (Be aboard the King Fisher Fleet to see all the action of the Pirate Flotilla Invasion! Reserve your seat today at 941 639-0969!!)

The Village will also give visitors a chance to participate in a Treasure Hunt throughout the Village with clues. The winner of the Treasure Hunt will receive a treasure chest full of wonderful prizes to take home. Registration begins at 11 am with the treasure hunt from 12 noon-5pm.

Yo Ho Ho !!! All ye Mateys and Wenches dance away the evening with the music of "Soul Machine" in Center Court from 5pm-9pm and a Pirate's Ball and adult costume contest at Harpoon Harry's at 9 pm!

Captain, Mates-n-Wenches! Gather Ye Ships & Ye Motley Krewes! Join the Invasion of Fishermen's Village, blastin' ye mighty water weapons, and then . . . Pillage the Village! Register Now! Images /Pirate Flotilla Entry Form 2010.doc

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13 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!

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

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

18 POW/MIA Ceremony 1-3 pm, Center Court presented by the Military Heritage Museum. Call 575-9002 for details

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

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

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

25 Beans & Seeds perform their eclectic style of music 5-9 pm Center Stage

EVENT: Anglers for Conservation "Hook Kids On Fishing" program, 11 am-2 pm, Center Court. Free. Presented by Coastal Angler Magazine. Kids 6 to 16 will take part in clinics on casting, conservation, fishing safety and more! Pre-registration required. Call 941 639-2628 to pre-register.

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27 Pink Fire Truck Tours 2010 on display from 9-11 am as part of the "Pink Heals - Care Enough to Wear Pink", a group of Firefighters driving across country to support Breast Cancer Awareness. Come see and take pictures and sign the Pink Fire Truck!

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

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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.
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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 ...

August 2010

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 ..

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR MARINE BUSINESSES!!!

SEEMS LIKE we have sent out a million e-mails to boating industry businesses in the past couple of weeks ... and we have more info to send you ... IF YOUR COMPANY IS NOT ON OUR LIST - MAYBE YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS HAS CHANGED (?) - PLEASE CONTACT US. We're received a number of returns ... and yours could be among them.

Just send an e-mail to info@floridacruising.com with your company name and city today!
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We've included all Florida and Bahamas marinas and yards on our July Press Release list so you'll be among the first to know about our changes for the 2011-2012 FCD. There will be a brand new INTERACTIVE WEB SITE and an E-BOOK VERSION, besides PRINT. All are scheduled for February publication.

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[UPDATE FORT LAUDERDALE / AUGUST 1, 2010] We have just been advised by our computer experts that there will be a demo version of the new interactive web site for businesses and readers to try out and comment on (probably with the word "TEST" in its name) most likely within the next few days! It will be on our existing web site, so please check it out at www.floridacruising.com. As it mentions, this will not be totally complete and will include only the East Coast of Florida with the St. Johns River and Okeechobee Waterway.

This is a work-in-progress and may not yet be perfect. We hope you can help us make it that way and appreciate your comments and pointing out any errors you notice!!! We'll be watching for your e-mails at info@floridacruising.com and "thank you" in advance for your help!

And businesses, we'll be needing your company's updates for next edition later. We'll advise in time.

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Among the new "goodies":

a click on a web address in an ad will take the user to that web site,

and all ads appear in all three versions — at last year's one affordable cost!

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Final Month for SUMMERTIME SAVINGS on books!

There are 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 THROUGH AUGUST!

Books are 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 ...

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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 a 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.

________

Repeating for August — 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 markers 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!!!' "

________

NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

CESAJ-CO-OM (1130)

1 July, 2010

RIM CANAL CLOSURE BY STRUCTURE C-5A, MOORE HAVEN, FLORIDA

1. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating the rim canal closure area. The area is approximately 3.5 miles past the Moore Haven Lock and directly across from Structure C-5A.

2. The cable across from structure C-5A, in Moore Haven, will be present until 01 September, 2010. The purpose of the cable is to prevent vegetation ... from causing navigation and flood control problems downstream near Moore Haven Lock.

3. GENERIC CAUTION TO MARINERS: Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, navigational buoys and the cable itself. Fishing and access to the area is still permitted; however, rim canal is not passable in the area.

4. Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http:///www.saj.sace.army.mil. Choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. US Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is a Biologist at the South Florida Operations Office (863) 983-6080.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

(signed)

Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.

Chief, Operations Division

_________

NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

CESAJ-CO-OM (1130)

2 July, 2010

DREDGING OPERATIONS JOHNS PASS AND BLIND PASS RELATED TO BEACH EROSION CONTROL PROJECT, PINELLAS COUNTY, FLORIDA, BEACH RENOURISHMENT 2010, LONG KEY AND TREASURE ISLAND.

Dredging Operations will be taking place in Johns Pass and vicinity and Blind Pass and vicinity between 19 July and 16 December 2010 related to the above project. Mariners are hereby notified to use caution when navigating Johns Pass and vicinity and Blind Pass and vicinity. Mariners should operate vessels with caution in the area due to potential for floating debris, increased traffic due to dredging operations, floating pipeline and large equipment working in and along the navigation channels. Mariners should closely monitor channels 13/16 in these areas.

Additional information concerning this PROJECT and the adjoining areas may be obtained by accessing the Jacksonville District web site at http:///www.saj.sace.army.mil. Choose OPERATIONS DIVISION and select NOTICE TO NAVIGATION from the pull down menu. US Army Corps of Engineers Point of Contact is Allan D. Morris (Operations Manager) (904) 232-2258.

FOR THE COMMANDER:

(signed)

Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.

Chief, Operations Division

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

________

NOTICES TO NAVIGATION INTERESTS

CESAJ-CO-OM (1130)

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 disposes 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 expected in January - March, 2011, and will be announced later.

FOR THE COMMANDER

Jim W. Jeffords, Jr.

Chief, Operations Division

__________

FORT LAUDERDALE SUNRISE BRIDGE PAINTING scheduled for completion August 30th

Painting 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, continues. 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.
________

INFO ON OTHER REPAIRS for FLORIDA BRIDGES follows ...

Starting with July, the USCG's Miami Bridge office began 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 and 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. In late July, the contractor closed the waterway due to the placement of the center channel beams. 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 has been authorized: 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. Work is scheduled to be completed by October 31, 2010.

__________

FWC UPDATE — Openings, Closings, Rule Changes

LOBSTER SEASON! - Regular commercial and recreational - August 6 - March 31

Check out everything you need to know: Limits, Licenses, Permits, special Monroe County Rules and more at MyFWC.com/RULESANDREGS.

(Ed Note: The 14th annual Key West Lobsterfrest celebrates the start of the season August 6-8. Check it out at www.keywestlobsterfest.com.)

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 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 should have taken effect by now.

________

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.

________

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."

_________

Repeating for August — 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 governments 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 ended in July BUT THERE IS ONE MORE SESSION — August 9-13 — at Ocala/Horseshoe Lake/ Marion County Parks & Recreation. Late registrations may be accommodated; visit the web site or call Rae Waddell at 850-933-4322. Besides hunting and fishing, kids learn to SWIM!

Parents: Plan ahead for next Summer's sessions ... 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. There is a tuition charge which 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.

________

Repeating for August — 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.

_________

BOAT OWNERS ASSOCIATION of the UNITED STATES'
REMINDER ON DISCOUNTS for MEMBERS

In their July Press Release, BoatUS NEWS reminds us ...

Members looking to save money can check out the fuel, boat repair and overnight dockage discounts at www.BoatUS.com/ServiceLocator. The over 900 marinas and boatyards across North America (quite a few in Florida and the Bahamas!) are part of the BoatU.S. Cooperating Marina program. The discounts vary by location but can include fuel, repairs and transient slip fees.

The group offers two membership programs - one for boaters (BoatU.S.) and one for anglers with fishing boats (BoatU.S. Angler). The price is the same for both - $24 annually - but each is tailored to the needs of the boat's owner. Boaters and sailors should go to www.BoatUS.com while anglers who fish from their boats can visit www.BoatUSAngler.com.

BoatUS is a boaters advocacy group which lobbies for boating causes and has a nationally-recognized role in boating safety and also offers services such as on-the-water towing, roadside assistance and boat insurance.
_________

FORT LAUDERDALE'S (Cordova Rd.) CROWN WINE & SPIRITS — TASTING — August 21

Crown Wine & Spirits is having a TASTING from 7 - 9 PM at the 1645 Cordova Road store (just off the 17th Street Causeway) on August 21. A $15 admission gets you a Free Wine Glass and allows you to sample over 50 wines and spirits served alongside delicious gourmet foods. Call them at 954-525-6565 for more information.

BIMINI BOATYARD BAR & GRILL - Fort Lauderdale - Summer Specials

Bimini Boatyard (on FCD Chart 10) has sent us a Press Release announcing Summer Dinner Specials. Unfortunately, it reached us too late to include here earlier, but fortunately, the specials don't end 'til August 31.

MONDAY Night is Wine Night: Half Price on ANY bottle of wine with dinner

TUESDAY Night is Mahi Mahi Night (Special pricing on dinner)

WEDNESDAY Night is Family Night (Kids [under 12] eat free from the Kids' Menu)

THURSDAY Night is Bimini Bread Night (Free loaf with dinner)

FRIDAY Night is World Famous (!) (Happy Hour 4 - 7 PM)

SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS: Frozen Drink Madness - 3 PM to Close at the Patio Bar - half Price Frozen Drinks with FREE Cruzan Dark floater.

Call them at 954 525 7400 or visit biminiboatyard.com.

__________

FLORIDA KEYS UPCOMING EVENTS

Conchtoberfest and Octoberfest events start in September. Watch this web site for news.

___________

BAHAMAS NEWS

BIMINI BIG GAME CLUB OPEN AGAIN!

As announced here in July, 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. Hotel rooms, restaurant and marina had Grand Opening scheduled in July; new phone number is 242-347-3391.

Repeating for August — DUTY ON PARTS NO LONGER IN EFFECT

As "officially" announced by us here in July — there is no longer any duty charged on parts shipped to vessels temporarily cruising in the Bahamas! Mr. Whyms at the Department of Customs in Nassau verified that the law has been amended 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.

ATLANTIS' Fantasy Camps for Kids & Teens this Summer and a new Fall Special just announced!

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 some Summertime Specials continue into August.

If you're not cruising over soon, you may want to take advantage of A Fall Special - stay 3 nights and get the 4th night free, plus companion airfare and more - just announced. book by August 22nd, travel starting August 15. Call 888-879-7259.

__________

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.

________

BOAT SHOWS

First Press Release for Fall Boat Shows has been received ... It's TAMPA!

The Tampa Boat Show is scheduled for September 10 - 12 on land and in water at the Tampa Convention Center. Admission is $9 for adults (16 and older), FREE for kids 15 and under. Free admission for military personnel, EMTs, Fire Fighters and Police on September 11 with valid ID.

Pre-purchase adult tickets online for a $2 discount and more information at TampaBoatShow.com
_________

NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET

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 and a 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.

A Boat Smart/Eco-Mariner Summer Camp is scheduled for August 10th, 9:30AM - 2:30PM for students ages 14 and up. Cost is $10.

__________

Repeating for August — SOUTHWEST FLORIDA YACHTS CHARTER "STIMULUS" PROGRAM GOES THROUGH OCTOBER

... And this NEWS: They've added their new Hunter Passage 42 Sloop — Fortuitus — to the Charter Fleet ...

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

2

3

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

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

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

7 Homeward Bound Greyhounds Pet Adoption 1-3 pm in front of Salty Paws.
Destined performs variety and dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage

8

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!

10

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

12

13 Singer/Guitarist/Song Writer Michael Hirst performs 5-9 pm, Center Stage

14 Acoustic Singer/Songwriter/Performer Roy Schneider, 5-9 pm, Center Stage

15

16

17

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

19

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

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

22

23

24

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

26

27 Reconnections Band performs oldies, variety and dance music 5-9 pm, Center Stage ---double shot weekend!

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

29

30

31
________

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 ...

JULY 2010

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

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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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The state of Florida has announced extra harvesting for Apalachicola oysters through August. Saturdays will now be included for a six-day harvesting week.
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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.
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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.
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Red Snapper recreational harvest season opened in Gulf federal waters June 1 and goes through July 23.
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Snook harvest is closed in Atlantic waters until September 1. Catch and release is still permitted during the closure.
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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."
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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.
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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.
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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!

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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.

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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.)

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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.
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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.
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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.

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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 -

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26

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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.
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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 ...
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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
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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!

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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... 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.

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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.)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

_______

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!

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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.
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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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!

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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

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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 ...