BY LEW HASTINGS - Making its historic return in 2012, on its 30th anniversary, the World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament and festival was back in a big way with a renewed mission of conservation, education and sportsmanship. By combining the high-stakes allure of competitive, big-game sport fishing with practical conservation principles and informative entertainment, this trend-setting event is pioneering its way as a model for tarpon tournaments around the world.

Do you enjoy going for boat rides, picnicking at state parks, deer hunting or bass fishing? Many of Florida’s residents and visitors enjoy the state’s abundant natural resources. From the crystal clear waters of the Keys to the vast Everglades to the rolling hills of the Panhandle, Florida is a unique and beautiful place. Fishing, hunting, boating and wildlife viewing are multimillion-dollar industries in the state.

BY MARCY SHORTUSE - Boca Grande is a place of beauty with abundant wildlife, and if you’re here long enough, there are many interesting species of birds and animals to encounter. Sometimes an encounter can go badly, though, when it’s a sick or injured animal that is found.

BY MARCY SHORTUSE - When January 22 rolls around next week, Gasparilla Island will have hit the big time with its first official set of stoplights.