Coast Guard searches for Missing Teen on Cruise Ship - Bruce O'Krepki

TAMPA - The Coast Guard searched the Gulf of Mexico by boat and from the air for a second day Tuesday for an 18-year-old from Louisiana who fell overboard during a cruise to celebrate his high school graduation. The Coast Guard said Bruce O'Krepki went over the rails of the Carnival Fantasy on Sunday night about 150 miles southwest of Tampa. A Coast Guard cutter and two aircraft searched for him Tuesday, Petty Officer Rob Simpson said. O'Krepki graduated with honors from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Hammond, La., where he ran track and played soccer. He was with about 30 classmates and members of their families on the ship. His uncle Rick O'Krepki said the teen's parents were among the chaperones.

Coast Guard: Be Safe on the Water for Memorial Day

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- The U.S. Coast Guard wants to remind everyone on the water to be safe this holiday weekend.In recent weeks, there have been several boat crashes in the area, most notably on Easter Sunday where five people died on the intracoastal. Also, this week's nor'easter has created the potential for dangerous rip currents and unpredictable water conditions. Boaters need to prepare accordingly

Clay County updates county’s ordinances regarding boating safety

From the Clay County Sheriff's Office: ATTENTION BOATERS!Clay County has updated and made corrections to the county’s ordinances regarding boating safety. The following is a list of the changes that you, as a boater need to be aware of. These changes will take effect on 12-13-2009 or when posted (as appropriate).