Mote Sharks

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Mote Marine is a terrific aquarium where you can see everything from frisky otters to a mysterious octopus to the ever-popular manatees. But did you know that Mote is also a world-class research facility whose original mission related to the study of sharks? In fact, Eugenie Clark, Mote’s founding director, is known in the industry as the “Shark Lady” for her groundbreaking research. Clark discovered that some shark species do not have to swim continuously in order to breathe. Her study of “sleeping sharks” was a breakthrough in the understanding of shark biology and behavior.

In addition, Mote has the only Center for Shark Research that has received an official designation from Congress. The Center’s research includes investigations into why sharks (and stingrays and skates, to which they are related) rarely get cancer and whether that knowledge can be applied to humans that do. It’s just one more reason why Mote is such a special place.

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Artist

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Anita Wexler

Anita Wexler has her BFA from Parsons New School of Design and her art education cortication from Bank Street College, both in NYC; she also has her M.Ed in Education. She is currently a teacher at Sarasota High School.

Anita has had her artwork shown locally, nationally, internationally and published in numerous magazines; such as Numinous, Art Ascent and Healers and many more. She appeared on HGTV's Isn't That Clever and Crafters Coast to Coast. Wexler's art has made their way into the hands of many collectors including: William Wegman and Jane Seymour.

She continues to experiment, grow and challenge herself as an artist.

www.anitawexler.com & Instagram: @artbyanitawexler

Written By

Nanette Crist

Nanette Crist is a retired lawyer who began blogging when she moved to Florida. It was an online diary of sorts, a way to keep track of her new life. It was also a good way to share her discoveries with friends and family outside the area. Over time, Nanette realized her writing makes her experience the world differently. She keeps an eye out for interesting things to write about and then delves more deeply into them as she crafts her words. It's all about telling the story. Nanette's blog can be found at http://nanettesnewlife.blogspot.com.