Commission meeting news : 

News Release

Commission recognizes conservation contributions

June 11, 2008
Contact: Gabriella Ferraro, 772-215-9459

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) recognized an artist, a prosecutor and an elementary school on Wednesday to open its meeting in Dania Beach.

For his diligent and hard work enforcing laws that protect Florida fish and wildlife resources, the FWC presented Monroe County Assistant State Attorney Patrick McCullah with the FWC’s “outstanding prosecutor award.”

McCullah leads the state attorney’s office in Marathon and has worked with FWC law enforcement officers more than 10 years.

“I am pleased and honored to be receiving this award,” McCullah said.  “The protection of our natural resources in the Keys and statewide is, and always should be, a priority.”

Jim Antista, attorney for the FWC, said, “For many years, Mr. McCullah has skillfully handled a variety of criminal cases involving fish and wildlife.  The FWC and the officers of the South Region believe Mr. McCullah is very deserving of this award.”

McCullah has advised and guided FWC officers in developing criminal enforcement cases, assisted in officer training, given special assistance to the FWC in investigation of derelict-vessel cases and given valuable input in improving the FWC’s procedures relating to derelict vessels.

Carey Chen shares his passion for fishing through his paintings, which capture marine life in its natural habitat. His work can be seen on boats, buildings and billboards all over South Florida.
The Commission recognized his contributions, which include raising money for youth fishing foundations and various other charities. 

Chen is the featured artist for Florida Sportfishing magazine. Selections of Chen’s paintings are on display at the June 11-12 meeting at the International Game Fish Association Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum.

“I am very flattered,” Chen said. “I strive to create marine art in a healthy environment, and that’s the way it should be in the future.”

From critters to conservation, students at Greenacres Elementary School in Palm Beach County have learned all about protecting Florida’s natural resources.  Commissioners recognized the school for its participation in the Project WILD program, a national education program.

The school is a charter member of the WILD Schools Program. Science coach Janice Kerber trained 10 other teachers to present conservation activities to more than 600 students.

“These are the types of committed individuals who make a difference to our fish and wildlife in Florida,” said Rodney Barreto, FWC chairman. “And the very best way to instill these conservation values is to begin with the children.”