Locals’ Insights Reveal the REAL Florida Keys
One of Florida Keys’ greatest “natural resources” is the friendly, easygoing people who make the region their home — charterboat captains, artists, restaurateurs, animal rescuers, attractions operators, musicians and more. By seeking local residents’ insights and recommendations for unique new adventures, visitors can begin to sample the authentic lifestyle of the colorful, magical islands.
Dee Dee Vaughan Smause: Coral Stewardship Runs in the Family
Dee Dee Vaughan Smause, co-founder of Plant a Million Corals with her parents, Dr. Dave Vaughan and Donna Vaughan, is passionately committed to restoring coral reefs and preserving the Florida Keys’ marine biodiversity. She finds great satisfaction in sharing Plant a Million Corals’ message of hope and seeing how it resonates with people.
Howard Livingston: Tunes in a Tropical Key
With every lyric he sings and every chord he strums, Howard Livingston communicates his passion for the Florida Keys and the island chain’s lifestyle — a deep-rooted passion that, many years ago, inspired the dissatisfied Chicago manufacturing company owner to become a carefree, fulfilled musician who lives on the water in the Lower Keys.
The Florida Keys Are Full of Friends You Haven’t Met Yet
The Florida Keys are a truly friendly place. The island chain is one of those rare locales where you might be a stranger when you arrive on vacation, but you won’t be one when you depart. So make plans for a Keys getaway and discover some warmhearted, quirky “friends you haven’t met yet.”
Key West Honors Jimmy Buffett … One Year Later
Thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans gathered on Key West’s Duval Street Sept. 1 for a march honoring the world-renowned singer/songwriter on the one-year anniversary of his passing. Jimmy lived in Key West during some of his most productive years, developing the “trop-rock” style and laid-back persona that helped make him a musical icon.
Steve Friedman: A ‘Blue Star’ Steward of Keys Waters
Islamorada fishing guide and captain Steve Friedman loves water: salt water, fresh water, blue water and particularly clean water. Friedman’s love of water includes prioritizing the preservation and restoration of the South Florida ecosystem, and the management of fisheries that provide a safe haven for the Florida Keys fish he loves to catch.
You Go, Girl! Roseleigh Enters the ‘Tour de Turtles’ Race
A determined young Florida Keys “resident” is participating in the Tour de Turtles, the sea turtle equivalent of television’s “The Amazing Race.” Her name is Roseleigh, and she’s a juvenile green sea turtle who was found off Islamorada with a debilitating disease — and recovered after receiving in-depth care at the Keys’ Turtle Hospital.