» The Skipper

Blue Crabs a Runin

The Skipper — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 01:00:07 +0000

Invasion of the Blue Crab

May, normally a time for keys crabbers to rest showed an unprecedented swarm of blue crab over Memorial Day weekend. The blue crab normally not seen until winter waters, filled the night time waters of the Conch Republic. With nets in hand Old Conch’s headed for the passes and channels bringing in a record number of crabs, at a time there should be none. According to Captain Al in 40 years I’ve never seen anything like this.

The Conch Republic via a Guest Blogger

The Skipper — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:08:22 +0000

This week, we welcome Chris Tucker’s contribution to the kingofconch.com. Chris’s personal blog can be found here.

The Conch republic is a society unto itself. Located in the city of Key West, Florida, this micro nation was formed as a simple protest. The Conch Republic seceded from the rest of the United States as a protest to a roadblock/inspection point back in 1982. The United States Border Patrol had set up this inspection point up to search for narcotics and illegal immigrants. In my research nothing was found of any importance in the vehicles that were searched. What happened after the Border Patrol had created this roadblock was a major traffic jam. There is only one way into the Keys by land and only one way out. Not only that, but it’s also a one lane road. So now you can see how much of a hassle it would be for local residents and people on vacation. The loss of monetary gain for the local economy was evident as well in the local business owner’s disgust of this unjust checkpoint.

The city council’s complaints were not listened to by the Federal Government. Attempts also to get an injunction against the roadblock was shot down in court. The mayor at the time Dennis Wardlow and the council; wanting to protest this unfair treatment officially declared “independence”. The council felt that since the federal government had erected an inspection point equivalent of a border station as they were a foreign nation, they might as well be one. Keys citizens have long been referred to as Conchs, so they took the name the Conch Republic. Their official motto is “We have seceded where others have failed”. So you can see their humor and play on words here. But more importantly it sums up their personal beliefs. This secession occurred on April 23, 1982 in Key West.

Conchs believe they have the right to enjoy the Keys without any outside interference, which most residents say is a state of mind, not just a location. The whole aura about the Keys or the Conch Republic is to “get away”. It’s an escape. Conchs enjoy themselves whether it is relaxing by the beach, fishing, or hanging out at a bar. The very people who live at the Conch Republic and travel there are mostly those who desire a simpler way of living, more laid back. Hence when they seceded from the US government it was light hearted, but there was seriousness to it as well. The Conchs hold their land in high regard.

The roadblock had frustrated and inconvenienced many residents. It also had slowed down tourism a lot. Most Conch Republic residents really didn’t like the fact their own country was taking actions against supposed drug smugglers and illegal immigrants without considering all the implications.

The Conch Republic is full of and has always attracted free-thinkers that constantly question authority, hence the fact that they want to get away, live somewhere else. To live out their days in peace from an overzealous state. The Conchs are decedents of Indians, pirates, and salvagers. So native people, travelers, and some less desirables are early ancestors of modern Conchs. Ernest Hemingway comes to mind as an individual representative of the Conch way of life. He was an American writer, journalist, and winner of a Pulitzer Prize. All through his childhood his family would spend winters in Key West (Conch Republic). Later on in life he went there to once again “get away”. He went to relax, write, and fish. Hemingway is a great American author who was a free-thinker. He wrote fiction and was critical of war and the military’s influence on society. There is a reoccurring theme in people involved with the Conch Republic. The common element of not really us vs. them, but Conchs want the government to mind it’s business and don’t just do whatever they want as is evident with the roadblock incident.

So I think what can be drawn from the citizens of this great nation is they are not lazy, drunken fisherman who waste away the days; but it is more profound than that. Some would dare to say that Conch residents have figured it out. Living the simple life and not worrying too much about work and trivial things. These modern day Conchs are business owners, fisherman, sailors, scuba divers, fathers, mothers, friends, and children. At first they might go to escape but in the process find themselves becoming closer to their families and the tropical environment. The Conch residents embody a Zen-like focus on relaxing and having a good time. But they also are not push overs and they can think for themselves. They want better for themselves. We saw this when they protested and declared independence in April of 1982. So as residents of the Conch Republic relax by the beach and cast out their line, if they are disturbed they can formulate their beliefs into action and aren’t afraid to demand their God given rights. The right to personal freedom and the pursuit thereof.

Grinch Scheduled to Meet Santa at Florida Keys Holiday Festival

The Skipper — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:23:06 +0000

On a subtropical island where fall and winter daytime temperatures average in the 70s, it’s hard to imagine sandal-clad kids playing in the snow.

But that’s the plan for the annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival, taking place from 4-10 p.m. Dec. 5, at Islamorada’s Founders Park, Mile Marker 87 bayside.

A 20-ton mountain of actual snow will be the centerpiece of the festival. Kids who have never seen snow can join with those more experienced in snowman sculpting to create one complete with corncob pipe and button nose before the snow melts.

Other event highlights include the Santa Paws Pet Parade, designed to provide a tail-waggin’ good time for pets decked out in holiday finery. Prizes await “party animals” that are best dressed or perform the best trick. Any domestic animal is welcome to participate and entry is free. For details, call 305-451-0088.

Decorative fur will give way to festive fir during the evening, as a 35-foot-tall community Christmas fir tree glistens with snow while carolers sing.

Vendors plan to offer arts and crafts in a holiday bazaar and food and wine in “Vino Village.” In addition, selected artists are expected to donate handcrafted ornaments that will be on display and sold by silent auction.

The annual holiday parade will be themed the “Art of Giving,” in honor of the lifetime artwork of Millard Wells. Wells, a prolific watercolor artist, will serve as grand marshal of the parade, set to start at 7 p.m.

His lighthouse and fish design adorns the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce.

Parade participants typically include the local high school’s Hurricanes marching band, decorated floats and antique cars. Santa is set to take part in the festivities, as well as Dr. Seuss’ strangely lovable Grinch.

The parade route proceeds from the Founders Park main entrance through the park before finishing at the southern gate.

Admission to the Holiday Festival is free, but donations will be collected for parking.

For more information, contact the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 800-322-5397.

Source: http://keysnews.com/node/7534

Key Largo Pirate Fest Comes to the Florida Keys

The Skipper — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 01:02:17 +0000

That’s Right Conch Heads, the Key Largo Pirate Festival returns to the Key Largo this weekend. Beginning Thursday, October 22nd and ending on Sunday, October 25th you can eat, drink and be merry while enjoying this fantastic pirate-themed festival. Complete with local music, food that could kill the most-seasoned sailor and the finest grog in town, this festival is sure to leave a lasting impression on just about anyone.

What’s better is that, for the first time ever, the King of Conch and the kingofconch.com will be out and about taking pictures with fans and selling Conch Republic souvenirs. This year we’ll be joined by photographer John Berger who is displaying some of his latest pieces. For more info, checkout the official website or contact us.

Happy sailing!

Its That Time Again Lobster Mini Season Starts

The Skipper — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:45:00 +0000

7 Days and Counting The 2009 Lobster Mini Season starts Wednesday July 29 & 30th. The Conch Republic will be inendated with thousands of Visitors from around the World please remember you are a guest in a foreign country respect are laws, customs and traditions of our tiny country.

Key Largo Conch Celebrations – 2009

The Skipper — Sat, 30 May 2009 12:22:21 +0000

Here’s the calendar of events for the 2009 Conch Republic celebrations in Key Largo.(http://www.keylargoconchrepublicdays.com/)

Friday April 17th
Proclamation of Secession
Snappers, MM 94 at 3 pm.
Join dignitaries, politicians, & friends, as the Northernmost Territories of the Conch Republic is formed. 852-5956 (more info)
Northernmost Territories Flag Raising and Kick-Off Party at Sundowners, 6pm: cabinet installation, music and dancing with drink specials. 451-4502

Saturday April 18th
“Is Your Pet a Conch?” contest begins, Keys Kritters Pet Store. 451-2627
ConchFest: Conch Specials with wine and rum pairings from around the world tonite and for the entire week at Bayside Grille. 451-3880
Corvette Cruisin’ at Largo Cargo, MM 103, 4-8pm: entertainment, food and beverages. 451-4242 (more info)
Keys Cajun Secession Celebration, 6pm-10pm at Rib Daddy’s. MM102.5 food, fun and live Cajun music in the garden. 451-0900

Sunday April 19th
“Start the Day the Conch Republic Way” Breakfast specials at Key Largo Conch House 7am-noon. 453-4844 (more info)
“Anything that Floats” Race from the Caribbean Club to Sundowners. Awards at Sundowners, registration party at Caribbean Club, time TBA. 451-4502
(view more info and rules)

Monday, April 20th
Conch Lovers Feast at Key Largo Conch House, Conch Appetizer, Soup & Entree $29 PP 5-9 pm. 453-4844 (more info)

Tuesday April 21st
Conch Fritter Eating Contest at Encore Restaurant, MM 102.4, 6pm. 451-0650 (more info and application form)

Wednesday April 22
Conch Republic Bed Races Meeting, pole placement and pre-race party at Coconuts, 5pm live music, dancing, drink specials. 453-9794 (entry form)
Conch Republic Progressive Dinner: wine and dine as we transport you for a 5-course conchalicious Keys-themed menu (see menu). 6:30pm. Sue Finney 394-3736

Thursday April 23rd
Opening night of the Conch Republic Texas Hold’em Contest aboard Sun Cruz Casino 6:30pm. Holiday Inn 451-0000
Snappers Turtle Club Prices rolled back to 1982 thru Sunday. 852-5956 (more info)
King and Queen Contest Registration at Snappers. Sign up and get complimentary accessories for your Royal attire. (more info)
Jimmy Buffett Impersonator Contest. Snappers, MM94, 7:30pm. 852-5956 (more info)

Friday the 24th
Texas Hold’em Contest continues on SunCruz.
King and Queen Conch; Crowning of the royal couple at Snappers, 8pm. 852-5956 (more info)

Saturday April 25th
Conch Republic Underwater Treasure Hunt, 8:30am. 451-3020 (Click here for more info and participating dive shows)
By Land or Sea Conch Poker Run, 11 am. Event begins at Sundowners, MM104. 394-3736 (more info)
“Is Your Pet a Conch?” contest finals at Keys Kritters Pet Store, 11am. 451-2627
Conch Republic Music Festival at Shipwrecks from 3pm until you drop. 453-3153
Conch Republic Bed Races at Coconuts, 5pm 453-9794
Conch Cruiser Car Classic at Snappers, 5pm Awards at 7:30pm, live music, dancing. Contact Mark Mills 852-9085 (more info)

Sunday April 26th
“Start the Day the Conch Republic Way” Breakfast specials at Key Largo Conch House 7am-noon 453-4844 (more info)
Closing Ceremonies at Snappers starting at 3pm (more info)
Conch Shell Blowing Contest, Key Lime Pie Eating Contest followed by the Ceremonial Destruction of the Jewfish Creek Bridge, live music dancing and drink specials. Treasure Hunt Awards. 852-5956

Civil War Declared

The Skipper — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:09:11 +0000

After years of unfair taxation, Fee’s without representation and total disregard for the concerns of the people, leaders of the provisional government of the Northernmost Territory of the Conch Republic, today declared freedom and independence from the tyrants in Key West. At a Ceremony held at Snappers, a popular watering hole, attended by True Conch, dignitaries and representatives of many foreign governments, the Conch Flag was burned in empathy. The burning of the flag signals the end of all ties with the sitting puppet government in Key West.

The Independence proclamation declared, true Conch are disgusted with the Southernmost leaders who have forgotten the values our country was found on and have become Money Hungry puppets of the United States. Besides succession in an unpredicted move the newly formed Northernmost Territories of the Conch Republic declared all out War on the Conch Republic. It is rumored that a replica of the Seven Mile Bridge connecting the Northern and Southern territories will be blown up within the week.

The Independent Northernmost Territories of the Conch Republic has its Northern border at the Last Chance Saloon in Florida City and extends to mile marker 71. True Conchs and dignitaries from around the world where among the hundred attending the ceremonies in support of the new Republic.

As word spread across the new republic all in attendance moved to Sundowners for a special celebration and the first Raising of the Northernmost Territory of the Conch Republics Flag. Conch came from far & near to be part of this ceremony.

View photos from the Ceremonies

Munch-a-thon Rolls into Middle Keys

The Skipper — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:40:57 +0000

Marathon is called the Heart of the Keys, but it’s the tummy that will get the attention at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival.In its 37th year, the fun-filled feast is set for March 15 to 16 at the Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.

The annual munch-a-thon features local delicacies like Florida lobster, stone crab claws, pink shrimp and smoked fish. Keys chefs are to offer conch in chowders, salad and fritters. Fresh oysters and clams, fried local fish and even hot dogs are to await hungry customers.

Sweet treats, including fresh Key lime pie, should provide a fine finish to the seafood extravaganza. Beer and soft drinks will be available as well.Other attractions include a nautical flea market, boat show, arts and crafts booths and scheduled entertainers including the Key Lime Pie Band.

Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. March 15 and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. the final day. Admission is $8 per adult. Children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

The Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce sees volunteers to work at the festival. Anyone interested can call Stacie Kidwell at 289-3503 or send an e-mail to stacie@yourkeysconnection.com.Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and free admission to the festival the day they work.

Boardwalk Pizza – Restaurant Review

The Skipper — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:44:47 +0000

By far some of the best pizza I have had in all of South Florida combined. They also have delectable hot & cold subs if your not in the Pizza mood. They pride themselves for their New Jersey roots and this shows in their decorating style, which features boardwalk photos, as well as Garden State Parkway and NJ Turnpike signs. Their prices are very reasonable and service is decent. Boardwalk is a great place for very casual outdoor eating, take out or delivery. And they are also dog friendly. The King and his Royal Family are becoming regulars at this establishment and plan to revisit frequently. Overall it’s a great place to enjoy a slice of pizza and a ice-cold beer. They also Deliver. Located at Mile Marker 88 on the corner of High Point Rd. and Overseas Highway; Bayside. 305-853-3800

Barbara Bush Holds Secret Meeting

The Skipper — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:51:07 +0000

An unidentified source close to the Royal family has announced that Barbara Bush will be holding secret meeting this week with Rear Admiral Munz of the Conch Republic. Rumors again fly that Barbara will be seeking political asylum in the Conch Republic. An unnamed source close to the situation believes that Mrs. Bush will formally request asylum and then citizenship in January of 2009, Barbara believes if she makes her move before George is out of office, he would send federal authorities and troops to invade the tiny Republic similar to the actions taken against the Conch in 1982.