Month: May 2022

Memorial Day 22 Useppa Izaak Walton Youth Fishing Tournament – Thoughts and Pictures by UseppaGin – Twenty young anglers fished in the Izaak Walton tradition of catch and release during Memorial Day’s Useppa Youth Fishing Tournament. They learned or sharpened their skills reeling in and letting go Snapper, Snook, Flounder, Grouper and one Skipjack. Harlow caught The First Fish. Bryce caught The Most Fish. Eric caught The Ugliest Fish. Lillian caught The Biggest Fish – a 23 1/2” Snook. All the kids (and their families) had fun. Thanks to Maggie McCormack in the Front Office for record keeping and organization. Thanks to Kyle Corey, a former Izaak Walton Kids Fishing Tournament participant, now coach and a Tournament Director to the next generation of Island anglers. How lucky all of us are to share the gift of Useppa.

Derby Day and Mother’s Day, Moms and Horses on Useppa – Pictures and Thoughts by UseppaGin – Okay, last weekend the horses were on T.V. at the Tarpon Bar, but mothers and grandmothers were everywhere. At the dock, in the pool, and on the patio, there was laughter and affection. The traditional Derby Day Party and Roxie’s Mint Julips were delightful. Everyone enjoyed the Collier Inn Buffet on Sunday. All ages from new babies to “old” grandmothers shared hugs and love with their families. Smiles were everywhere. How lucky the Useppa family was to be together. A special thank you to the Island employees who gave up being with their mainland mothers and grandmothers to take care of us.

Sunday Croissants & Eclairs, and Seasonal Good-byes – Pictures and Thoughts by UseppaGin – Good-byes are never easy, and it’s that time of year for seasonal Useppa sendoffs. There are tears behind the smiles and waves, the musical shell cries as the boat pulls away. Lots can happen between May and November to the Island and to our Winter homeowners. Some this year said good-bye for good. And yet, on Sunday there were reasons for grins and fun. On Pine Island in the Getaway Café French Bakery, boxes of chocolate and vanilla eclairs and bags of croissants were ready for pickup. It’s on a first seen first shared basis. Employees and kids get the first chance when the 11:30 Joseffa Launch pulls in. Then …. If there are any left… lucky grownups can have some too. Useppa is a gift shared by everyone.