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Naturalist to speak
SARASOTA — The Mangrove Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society hosts naturalist and plant expert Jeff Weber at Old Miakka Preserve.
“A retired environmental specialist, and FNPS member, Jeff will take us for a guided late autumn walk through oak scrub and pine flatwoods habitats,” it stated. “Along the way, we’ll see red maples and winged sumacs displaying splashes of fall color, American beautyberries with their vibrant purple berries, saltbushes in full bloom and areas of scrub golden aster dotting the landscape with patches of sunny yellow blooms.”
It takes place from 9-11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23. Old Miakka Preserve is along Fruitville Road, east of Verna Road/Myakka Road in Sarasota.
“Take exit 210 Fruitville Road and head east about 11 miles to the ‘T’ intersection at Fruitville Road and Verna Road. Continue straight ahead onto the dirt road for .4 mile to the parking area and entrance on the right,” it stated.
The event is free. For more information, email mangrovechapter@fnps.org. Dogs, smoking or vaping are discouraged.
EFC to meet Nov. 12
ROTONDA WEST — The Englewood Fishing Club meets 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12 at the Rotonda Community Center, 646 Rotonda Circle, Rotonda West).
“Attendees are asked to bring an item of non-perishable food or sanitary items that will
be distributed to people in need,” it stated.
For more information, visit EnglewoodFishingClub.net or visit the Englewood Fishing Club.
“Please do not forget a gift to ‘Toys for Tots’ at the November and December meetings and at the Christmas Party. To drop off your gifts, Collection boxes will be available at the door.”
The Nov. 12 meeting will be an open forum/discussion for the group.
Fly fishing casting clinic set
SARASOTA — CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, is holding an Orvis-endorsed fly fishing clinic in November.
Certified instructor Capt. Rick Grassett will teach the basic fly casting principles along with how to improve casting skills and correct faults.
The class will run from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14 and cost $150 per person which includes the use of fly tackle along with a workbook.
“Optional instructional guided fly fishing trips are also available through CB’s Saltwater Outfitters for an additional fee,” it noted.
To make a reservation, call CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400.
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is at 1249 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota
It’s time for youth to get their art on
The Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is again partnering with Wildlife Forever for the 2026–2027 Florida Fish Art Contest.
The contest is open for children from kindergarten through 12th grade.
There are five grade divisions:
Kindergarten1st–3rd grade4th–6th grade7th–9th grade10th–12th grade
There are awards for first-place winners and runners-up in freshwater and saltwater categories within each grade division, it stated.
The contest is open for submissions until Feb. 28.
“Participants can find more information, educational resources, and submission guidelines at MyFWC.com/FishArt,” it stated.
Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday underway
Gov. Ron DeSantis recently announced Florida’s Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday.
It is the second year for the holiday that provides tax relief on firearms, ammunition along with hunting, fishing and camping supplies, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
It runs through December 31.
“During the holiday, Florida will suspend the collection of sales tax on eligible firearms, ammunition and hunting, fishing and camping equipment,” it stated.
Among the eligible items are:
AmmunitionFirearms, including pistols, rifles and shotgunsFirearm accessories, including holsters, stocks and cleaning kits, sights along with gripsBows and crossbows along with related accessoriesFishing rods and reels, along with bait and tackleEligible camping supplies that includes tents, sleeping bags, camping stoves and lanterns.
For a full list of items eligible for tax holiday, visit FloridaRevenue.com/HuntFishCamp.
Volunteers needed for UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County
SARASOTA — The UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is seeking volunteers to help with its Ecology and Natural Resources programs.
“The ecology and natural resources program reaches thousands of youth and adults across Sarasota County each year through engaging field and classroom-based education programs,” it stated in a news release.
It noted research shows volunteering “improves physical activity, self-reported wellness and mood” when it comes to being in the environment.
“Volunteering in nature with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County offers an opportunity to make friends and build community with others who have similar values and interests while increasing your knowledge and skills,” it stated.
Those interested can apply online at https://shorturl.at/0nLqP