News from Keys Treasures — Conch Republic

  The 41st running of the annual 7 Mile Bridge Run occurred last weekend and for all those who were lucky enough to secure a spot, it was a resounding success.       Each year, just over 1500 entrants line up at the start of the bridge (historically the North end but for the past two years, the Big Pine side), and await the gunshot signaling the race has begun.  The race itself is a bit shorter than the name implies, measuring just over 6.8 miles but with the Florida Keys heat beating down on you, even as the sun...

          This lovely family of manatees greeted us at the dock upon our return from a recent fishing trip.  We love manatees!      While we were hosing off the gear, a snout peeked up at us, trying its best to get a quick drink.  We immediately stopped spraying fresh water and watched the little trio for about ten minutes.      Feeding, touching, and watering manatees is forbidden by law and we do not do any of those things because we respect both the law and the manatees.  The slow-cruising creatures are in danger of...

    Would-be vacationers have been turned away from our beautiful islands in an abundance of caution over COVID-19.  The Keys have been closed to visitors for nearly two months now, and the topic of whether we should reopen or remain closed is a hot one among residents.  Business owners are thankful now that they can earn a small income from scaled-down operations catering to locals, but the driving force behind the economy in Monroe County is tourism.  Without tourists, many businesses may never recover and will never open their doors to tourists again.      The closure of the...