Charmaine from public affairs told the commission the Department of Marine Resources had 14 media mentions since the prior meeting and summarized community outreach and education activities.

In that report Charmaine listed news items including sport-fish records, the seafood-labeling law, the DMR marine information calendar and that the DMR "received $6,300,000 in... funds from the secretary of state" (the transcript's phrasing about the funding source is unclear). She also said the office participated in regional events, the artificial reef bureau and marine-patrol outreach, and that staff delivered school tours and workshops.

Ayesha Gray reported on Grand Bayou events, saying the reserve's star party drew 405 attendees and included family activities, crafts, presentations and educational programming. She said organizers plan to expand the event next year based on turnout.

Charmaine and other staff encouraged commissioners to pick up the latest calendars and coastal markers and noted the DMR's recent public-facing work at conferences, school visits and community events.

What happens next: staff will continue outreach and media work; the commission will receive routine updates on public affairs at subsequent meetings.