Mill McCleary: Steward of Plastic Free Key West
Mill McCleary, executive director of the Reef Relief organization based in Key West, uses advocacy and organizational skills to create tangible impacts through clean water and healthy ecosystems. He has overseen Reef Relief’s establishment of Key West Marine Park, founding of Coral Camp for Kids, and recent Plastic Free Key West program.
Andrea Paulson: Steward of the Lower Keys Backcountry
On custom charter kayak trips to Content and Mud keys in the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, Captain Andrea Paulson has educated thousands of kayaking clients about the importance of keeping backcountry waters pristine. Deeply passionate about the Florida Keys environment, she strives to give her clients a renewed respect for nature.
Underwater Pumpkin Carving and Other ‘Wrinkles’ on Upper Keys Fun
Key Largo is called the dive capital of the world — with good reason, since it draws underwater enthusiasts from around the globe to experience its diverse, fascinating coral reef ecosystem alive with sea life. Plus Key Largo, and the Upper Keys overall, are home to a weird and wonderful array of lighthearted underwater events.
Headdresses, Headliners and Hilarity Take Center Stage at Key West Contest
Revelers in Key West are firing up their creative juices and their glue guns, hoping to create the winning headgear for the Headdress Ball scheduled Thursday, Oct. 24. The glamorous event is one of the highlights of the island’s 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, offering a unique blend of lively entertainment and imaginative pageantry.
Looking Back at Mallory Square
For decades, Key West's Mallory Square Sunset Celebration has been an iconic must-do experience for visitors and locals alike. On the pier overlooking colorful Key West Harbor, artisans sell handmade wares and foodstuffs. Performers range from acrobats and musicians to a daring tightrope walker silhouetted against the vivid hues of the evening sky.
Keys Groups, Businesses Organize Dorian Relief Efforts for Northwest Bahamas
Relieved and grateful that the Florida Keys were spared impacts from Hurricane Dorian, Keys groups and businesses are organizing efforts to assist people in the northwest Bahamas who felt the brunt of the hurricane’s devastating winds and water — including citizens of tiny Green Turtle Cay, whose village of New Plymouth is Key West’s sister city.
Connect & Protect: Dive into Florida Keys Eco-Adventures
Vacation volunteerism, often called “voluntourism,” contributes to the self-sufficiency and sustainability of destinations like the Florida Keys. In the Keys, advocacy groups and learning-based attractions offer hands-on experiences that visitors can discover and enjoy — helping them find out more about impacts on Florida's reefs and environment and how the average person can help as a citizen scientist.