Florida Surfer Suffers Second Shark Bite in Same Location after 11 Years

Florida Surfer Suffers Second Shark Bite in Same Location after 11 Years

Cole Taschman recovers in a Martin County hospital after undergoing two surgeries and receiving 93 stitches for his injuries. Photo: Cole Taschman
Cole Taschman recovers in a Martin County hospital after undergoing two surgeries and receiving 93 stitches for his injuries. Photo: Cole Taschman

Stuart, FL — Local surfer and fishing charter operator Cole Taschman, 28, is recovering at home after a frightening encounter with a shark while surfing at Martin County’s Bathtub Beach in Stuart. This is the second time Taschman has survived a shark bite at the same beach, his first occurring over a decade ago in 2013.

SS United States Bound for Florida: It’s a “Done Deal”

SS United States Bound for Florida: It’s a “Done Deal”

Workers prepare the iconic SS United States for its final journey from Pennsylvania to Florida. Photo: SSUSC
Workers prepare the iconic SS United States for its final journey from Pennsylvania to Florida. Photo: SSUSC

Iconic Ocean Liner to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef

In September, FMN reported on an ambitious plan to bring the SS United States to Florida as an artificial reef. At the time, the move seemed almost a certainty, and after one final legal challenge, it has become a reality. The SS United States, a symbol of maritime innovation and American excellence since its 1951 launch, is set to begin its final journey—not across the Atlantic, but toward an extraordinary new life beneath the waves. In a quiet ceremony on October 12, 2024, the SS United States Conservancy transferred ownership of the ship to Okaloosa County, Florida, marking the end of a long and contentious legal battle over the vessel’s future.

Photographing Butterflies: Don’t Let the Butterfly Flutter By!

Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
1/3200, f/6.3, ISO 1000, 460mm | Photo: TJ Waller

A captivating sight for children and adults alike, I’ve never seen anyone who didn’t stop to watch a beautiful butterfly as it fluttered on by. So, in this short article I’ll share a few tips on photographing butterflies and how to capture truly awesome, wall-hanging shots of these gorgeous insects.

The SS United States Could Become Florida’s Newest Reef

The SS United States Could Become Florida’s Newest Reef

The SS United States is to be evicted from her Philadelphia dock of 28 years. She has until September 2024 to find a new home, and it may well be Florida. Credit: Wikicommons
The SS United States is to be evicted from her Philadelphia dock of 28 years. She has until September 2024 to find a new home, and it may well be Florida. Credit: Wikicommons

The SS United States, once the fastest and most luxurious ocean liner to ever sail the seas, now finds itself at the heart of a fierce battle between those who want to preserve its legacy and those who see it as a perfect candidate for a Florida artificial reef. As the clock ticks toward a September court-mandated deadline, the fate of this American maritime icon has never been more uncertain—or more passionately debated.

DeSantis Shelves Controversial State Park Development Plans Amid Backlash

DeSantis Shelves Controversial State Park Development Plans Amid Backlash

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference on Wednesday. Photo: State of Florida
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis speaks during a press conference on Wednesday. Photo: State of Florida

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has put a hold on a proposal to introduce extensive developments, including golf courses, pickleball courts, and 350-room hotels, to state parks following widespread public and political opposition. The governor announced the decision at a press conference on Wednesday, marking his first public remarks since the proposals from his administration were leaked last week.

The 2024 Florida Python Challenge Has Begun!

The 2024 Florida Python Challenge Has Begun!

Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay participated in the 2017 Challenge for his cooking series, "The F Word", capturing three pythons.  Photo: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay participated in the 2017 Challenge for his cooking series, “The F Word”, capturing three pythons. Photo: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The Florida Python Challenge is an annual event aimed at removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem. The event, sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, began in 2013, making it an ongoing effort for over 11 years.

Take A Walk On The Wild Side!

Drive through Safari Photo: Wild Florida
Drive through Safari Photo: Wild Florida

We at FMN are always looking for something unique and fun to do, and this place fits the bill. Do you want to experience the excitement of a safari but don’t want to travel to Africa? Wild Florida may be the answer you’ve been looking for. Located in east central Florida’s Osceola County near Orlando, the Wild Florida park offers Drive Thru Safaris, Airboat Adventures, walking tours, a gator park, and much more.

Visiting Orlando’s Theme Parks? Take a Side Trip To Natural Wonders Of Florida’s Springs

Visiting Orlando’s Theme Parks? Take a Side Trip To Natural Wonders Of Florida’s Springs

Three Sisters Spring
Photo: Three Sisters Spring website

When one thinks of Florida, images of sun-soaked beaches and theme parks often come to mind. However, nestled within the state’s lush landscapes are a series of natural wonders that offer a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. Florida’s springs, with their crystal-clear waters and serene environments, provide a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located just a short drive from Orlando, these springs promise a rejuvenating experience. Here’s a guide to some of the most captivating springs you can visit, each with its own unique charm.

Florida Off the Beaten Path – Silver Springs State Park

One of Silver Springs' world famous glass-bottom boats leaves the dock for a tour. Photo: Florida State Parks
One of Silver Springs’ world-famous glass-bottom boats leaves the dock for a tour. Photo: Florida State Parks

Nestled just east of Ocala, this park is a hidden gem filled with natural beauty and myriad activities that make it a perfect getaway from the usual tourist spots. Many list Silver Springs among the most beautiful springs in the entire State of Florida. If you like places “off the beaten path”, you’ll absolutely love it, so let’s dive into all the details.

Want To Get Off “The Beaten Path”? Consider These Florida Beaches

Want To Get Off “The Beaten Path”? Consider These Florida Beaches

Florida offers some beautiful secluded beaches for those who want to “get away from it all”. Photo: Florida State Parks

Florida boasts numerous serene and secluded beaches away from the typical tourist spots. If you want a memorable getaway, consider these five uncrowded beaches in Florida that offer tranquility and beautiful surroundings:

Discover the Magic of Central Florida: 20 Essential Attractions You Need to Visit

Discover the Magic of Central Florida: 20 Essential Attractions You Need to Visit

From Tampa to the Space Coast, Central Florida offers an incredible array of attractions. There is something for everyone, ranging from theme parks to serene natural areas and educational museums. Here’s a detailed look at 20 attractions that make Central Florida a must-visit destination for all types of travelers.

Scales and Tailwinds: Alligator Mistakes Air Base for Swamp Resort

Scales and Tailwinds: Alligator Mistakes Air Base for Swamp Resort

A large alligator rests near the landing gear of a KC-135 at Macdill AFB, Florida on Monday.
A large alligator rests near the landing gear of a KC-135 at MacDill AFB, Florida on Monday. Photo: MacDill AFB

TAMPA, Fla. – An unexpected visitor found his way onto the tarmac at MacDill Air Force Base yesterday, prompting a swift response from Florida Fish and Wildlife authorities. After crawling out of a nearby marsh, the nearly 10-foot alligator promptly did what gators do…. found a nice cool spot to get out of the hot Florida sun. Unfortunately for the busy airmen at the base, the gator apparently claimed “squatter’s rights” in front of the landing gear of a huge KC-135 tanker aircraft.