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Breton the Shark Tracks 40,000 Miles, Returns to Sunshine State

Breton, a 13-foot, 1,400-pound great white shark, has returned to Florida waters, surfacing off Jacksonville’s coast on Sunday morning, according to OCEARCH. Tagged in 2020, Breton has gained fame for his unusual migration pattern, which, over two years, formed the outline of a shark on OCEARCH’s tracking map—a phenomenon described as a "self-portrait."

The shark, named after Cape Breton Island, where he was first tagged, has traveled over 40,000 miles. Like many great whites, Breton migrates south each winter in search of warmer waters and food. Florida, known for frequent shark activity, recorded 16 nonfatal shark bites in 2023, none involving great whites.

OCEARCH, a nonprofit studying ocean ecosystems, has tagged 373 sharks to date, aiming to understand their behaviors and ecological roles. Researchers warn that shark conservation is vital, as their decline could disrupt marine ecosystems, underscoring their importance as apex predators.

Source:  See Full Story at Daytona News-Journal

Holiday Outburst Leads to Arrest in Christmas Tree Damage Case

Authorities in Ormond Beach responded to a report of vandalism at an office building after a property manager discovered their Christmas tree had been knocked over, its branches bent and ornaments broken. Surveillance footage revealed the incident occurred the previous afternoon, showing a man punching and toppling the tree in an apparent outburst.

An internal investigation linked the suspect to a nearby electronics repair shop in the building. The store owner identified the man, a 57-year-old Ormond Beach resident, as a customer. Police later confronted him, and he admitted to damaging the tree out of frustration with his experience at the shop. The total damage was estimated at $20.

The man was arrested for criminal mischief but was released at the scene with a notice to appear in court. The incident has drawn attention for its unusual nature during the festive season.Authorities in Ormond Beach responded to a report of vandalism at an office building after a property manager discovered their Christmas tree had been knocked over, its branches bent and ornaments broken. Surveillance footage revealed the incident occurred the previous afternoon, showing a man punching and toppling the tree in an apparent outburst.

An internal investigation linked the suspect to a nearby electronics repair shop in the building. The store owner identified the man, a 57-year-old Ormond Beach resident, as a customer. Police later confronted him, and he admitted to damaging the tree out of frustration with his experience at the shop. The total damage was estimated at $20.

The man was arrested for criminal mischief but was released with a notice to appear in court. The incident has drawn attention for its unusual nature during the festive season.

Source:  See Full Story at Ormond Observer

Sad Ending-$1 Sailboat Becomes Environmental Concern, Dismantled by County Officials

A 1977 sailboat that ran aground in New Smyrna Beach was dismantled and removed after no buyers came forward, despite being listed for $1. The vessel had been stranded for two weeks, drawing both curiosity and frustration from locals and visitors. Its owner, unable to afford the $20,000 removal cost, surrendered the boat to Volusia County.

On Monday, county officials coordinated its demolition, securing approvals from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to prevent environmental contamination. Hazardous materials were safely removed before the boat's remains were taken to the Tomoka Landfill. Officials emphasized that the vessel posed risks to the environment and public safety, particularly during potential storms.

Residents were relieved to see the boat gone, describing it as an eyesore. The owner, citing emotional distress, declined to comment on the ordeal. The swift removal was seen as necessary to protect the shoreline and local waters.

Source: See Full Story and Video at WESH.com

Florida Agriculture

Citrus Is Slowly Dying In Florida..As Citrus Giant Alico Inc. Ends Century-Long Role in Florida’s Signature Industry

Alico Inc., a major citrus grower based in Fort Myers, announced it will exit the citrus business after decades of declining production. The decision stems from the crippling effects of citrus greening disease and damage from hurricanes, including Hurricane Milton in 2024. Despite significant investments in grove restoration, Alico reported a 73% drop in production over the past decade, deeming citrus farming no longer viable.

The company will transition to diversified land management, repurposing its 53,000-acre portfolio with 75% remaining in agriculture and 10% slated for development within five years. The shift will result in the layoff of up to 172 employees.

Alico’s announcement highlights the struggles of Florida’s citrus industry, which has seen production plummet from 244 million boxes in 1997-1998 to a projected 12 million this season. The company’s move marks a significant moment in the decline of one of Florida’s signature industries.

Source: See Full Story at Daytona News Journal

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