KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Maybe “American Idol” winners aren’t abandoning their guitars to play conch shell concerts, but fans of the fluted, pink-lined shell are puckering up for the 50th annual test of “conch musicianship” in Key West.

The Conch Shell Blowing Contest begins at noon Saturday, March 3, in the tropical garden of Key West’s Oldest House, 322 Duval St. Nicknamed the Conch Honk, the lighthearted competition salutes Key West’s seafaring heritage and is presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation.

The tradition of blowing a conch shell in the Florida Keys began centuries ago. In the 1800s, when the local economy was largely based on salvaging cargoes from ships wrecked on the nearby reef, sailors attracted attention by blowing piercing blasts on the shell.

“There wasn’t a ship that went out that didn’t have at least one conch shell on it for communications,” said veteran contest winner Clinton Curry.

The Keys’ connection with conch goes far beyond instrumental and communications applications. The slightly tough meat of the hardy mollusk is the prime ingredient in conch chowder and conch fritters, two of the island chain’s signature dishes. Keys natives proudly proclaim their own tough, hardy nature by calling themselves “conchs” and their home the Conch Republic.

Several dozen kids and adults are expected to compete in the March 3 “conch honk,” showcasing their pucker power and honoring an important Keys tradition. Spectators can expect more laughs than musical inspiration and a surprise visit from some characters from Key West’s seafaring history.

While most entrants only manage blasts or squawks, each year a few produce complex melodies that impress judges and audiences alike. Winners are chosen for the quality, duration, loudness and novelty of the sounds they make, with trophies awarded in multiple age categories. The festivities typically include performances by talented “pucker pros.”

The 2012 Conch Shell Blowing Contest is free to enter and watch. Contestants can register at the Oldest House from 10:30 a.m. to noon March 3, or at the event itself if space is still available. Those lacking “instruments” can purchase conch shells on site.

Event information: www.oirf.org or 305-294-9501

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Native-born Key West residents proudly call themselves conchs, a nickname inspired by the sturdy sea mollusk that inhabits area waters. A celebration of their conch heritage is set for 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 3.

The family-friendly ConchFest is to be presented at Bayview Park, located on Truman Avenue at the entrance to the island city’s historic Old Town, by The Rotary Club of Key West.

The festival is to feature a conch chowder cook-off showcasing the savory flavor of Key West’s favorite seafood, food and libations for purchase including conch fritters and conch salad, arts and crafts vendors, a co-ed softball tournament, cheerleading and gymnastics demonstrations, kids’ activities and performances by Key West High School students.

Heading the entertainment lineup is a free concert by local favorites The Bubba System and renowned Keys singer/songwriter Howard Livingston with his Mile Marker 24 Band.

Commemorating Key West’s longstanding tradition of community spirit and acceptance, ConchFest is to raise money for The Rotary Club of Key West’s college scholarship program for local students.

Admission to the festival is free.

Event information: www.conchfestkeywest.com or 305-725-6446

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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MARATHON, Florida Keys — What started as a community event to bolster tourism business has, more than 30 years later, become one of the Middle Keys’ most anticipated and sumptuous weekends. The Original Marathon Seafood Festival, set for Saturday and Sunday, March 10-11, features a feast of fish, shrimp, lobster and conch for tens of thousands of seafood lovers.

Indigenous seafood such as mahi-mahi, Florida lobster, succulent stone crab claws, plump pink shrimp and smoked fish are the anchoring attractions of the area’s local commercial fishing heritage. These local delicacies and more are to be available at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway.

Foods prepared according to secret recipes highlight the annual munch-a-thon, and Keys chefs are to offer conch chowder, salad and fritters as well as fresh oysters, clams and fried local fish. Attendees should save room for sweets like Key lime pie, cakes, cool smoothies and icy treats to top off the seafood extravaganza.

Staple festival attractions include children’s games and more than 200 vendor booths with a variety of wares created by artists and craftspeople, nautical items, tropically themed clothing and apparel, plants and flowers, boats and watersports gear.

Among the weekend’s scheduled entertainers are headliner and country music favorite Amber Leigh, slated to perform Sunday, as well as other popular Keys entertainers.

Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Admission is $5 per adult. Children under 12 accompanied by a paying adult are admitted free.

The festival is co-sponsored by the Marathon Chapter of the Organized Fishermen of Florida and the Marathon Chamber of Commerce. As in the past, proceeds benefit local scholarship programs.

Event information: www.marathonseafoodfestival.com or 305-743-5417

Marathon visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/marathon or 1-800-262-7284

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KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Descendants of three former United States presidents are to share memories and insights about their “first lady” forebears during a presentation at Key West’s Harry S. Truman Little White House, Florida’s only presidential museum.

The unique event is scheduled for 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, on the west lawn of the 111 Front St. residence where former President Truman spent 11 working vacations during his 1945-1953 administration.

Scheduled presenters include Truman’s grandson Clifton Truman Daniel, Herbert Hoover’s great-granddaughter Margaret Hoover and Gerald Ford’s daughter Susan Ford Bales.

In a panel discussion moderated by CNN commentator John Avlon, the three presidential descendants are to share rare personal glimpses of America’s former first ladies as mothers and grandmothers. They also plan to explore presidential wives’ role on the campaign trail.

Following the outdoor presentation, Hoover and Daniel are to host a 6 p.m. fundraising cocktail party in the living room of the Little White House. Attendees can enjoy the authentic 1949 atmosphere of Truman’s former retreat, view his piano and poker table, order a cocktail from the president’s bar and mingle with the afternoon’s presenters in an intimate setting.

Proceeds benefit the restoration fund of the not-for-profit Key West Harry S Truman Foundation, whose mission is to preserve and protect the Little White House State Heritage Landmark. As well as being Truman’s working presidential headquarters, the house also has hosted former presidents Dwight Eisenhower, John Kennedy, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.

Tickets are priced at $60 per person for admission to the presentation and cocktail party. They are available at www.keystix.com or at the Little White House.

Event information: www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com or 305-294-9911

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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KEY LARGO, Florida Keys — A colorful series of 4-by-5-foot angelfish created by local artists adorns various Key Largo venues as part of a public arts initiative sponsored by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. The initiative’s purpose is to show off the artistic talent in the northernmost island community.

Saturday, Feb. 11, the angelfish and up to 50 other pieces of original artwork are to be displayed and sold at a public auction. Proceeds benefit a Keys charity and each of the participating artists.

A 5-7 p.m. cocktail reception and art preview are planned to kick off the event at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center at mile marker (MM) 102 bayside. Viewing is free and bid paddles are available for $10.

Each angelfish is crafted from aluminum and individually themed. Displayed with each work is the artist’s biography and information about the art medium.

Highlight pieces include “Artist’s View of Paradise” by science teacher/artist Carmen Sotolongo-Kelley, a front-and-back design that adorns the entrance to the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center at MM 106. “Secret Spot” by Key Largo artist Taylor Hale adds a colorful twist to the Key Largo Conch House’s outdoor garden eatery at MM 100.2.

“Wyland Angelfish,” located at Marker 88 Restaurant, MM 88, was created by Upper Keys resident Wyland, one of America’s most distinctive marine life artists and creative influences.

Other outdoor bayside angelfish locations include Señor Frijoles restaurant (MM 104), Sundowners on the Bay (MM 103) and Snapper’s Restaurant (MM 94.5).

Visitors also can find angelfish at oceanside locales such as Key Largo Fisheries Market, Marina & Cafe (MM 99), Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen (MM 99.3), Capital Bank (MM 99.6) and Action Marine (MM 102.1).

Visitors can pick up brochures that map the locations of the angelfish at the chamber so they can find and view the bright outdoor art while driving along the Overseas Highway.

The angelfish join a variety of outdoor artistry in the Florida Keys, ranging from murals to offbeat roadside salutes to the region’s abundant marine life — such as a super-sized replica lobster that greets visitors to Islamorada’s Rain Barrel artisans’ village.

Key Largo visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keylargo or 800-822-1088

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KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Arts and crafts by some of the Florida Keys’ most creative spirits combine with music by top local and visiting musicians at the 12th annual Schooner Wharf Open Air Art & Music Affair, scheduled Saturday, March 3, in Key West’s Historic Seaport.

Headquartered at the Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St., the event is to feature artists’ and artisans’ wares from 10 a.m. until sunset, with music continuing into the night.

Featured artistry is to include paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, clothing, woodwork, stained glass, ceramics, leather, found objects and other items reflecting the Keys’ free-spirited creativity.

Some artists, including renowned Keys potter Jay Gogin, typically work on site to give attendees a chance to view original pieces taking shape.

Songwriter/humorist Michael McCloud is to kick off the musical offerings at 10 a.m., backed by cohorts Captain Carl and Professor Pete. A longtime local favorite, McCloud is known for his intriguing lyrics and offbeat humor.

Following McCloud is an exuberant musical family, The Doerfels, who blend country, gospel and bluegrass with a touch of blues, jazz, swing and classical. Performances are highlighted by the young musicians’ engaging stage presence and mastery of instruments ranging from banjo to bass.

An evening showcase by multiple gold and platinum recording artist Paul Cotton and his band is to highlight the entertainment schedule. Cotton is best known as the primary songwriter, lead guitarist and lead vocalist for the country rock band Poco. Attendees can expect tunes ranging from Poco’s “Heart of the Night” to numbers infused with a “trop rock” or New Orleans vibe.

Other attractions at the open-air event include the Schooner Wharf’s cocktails and casual cuisine as well as the seaport’s colorful atmosphere.

Event information: www.schoonerwharf.com or 305-292-3302
Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
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KEY LARGO, Florida Keys — A two-day paddlefest attracting single and double kayaks, canoes and standup paddle boards is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 4-5, along a scenic course around the Florida Keys’ northernmost island of Key Largo.

A distance race for boats and boards, the event is expected to draw more than 100 participants daily in selected classes and age-group categories.

“The Bogey” race starts at 10 a.m. Saturday from the shoreline of Florida Bay Outfitters at mile marker 104 bayside. Kayaks and canoes complete a 13.2-mile course and standup paddlers complete a looped race of six miles. A happy hour post-race party is planned for 6 p.m. at Florida Bay Outfitters.

Sunday, “The Bacall” race involves a shorter course. Kayaks and canoes cover a six-mile stretch and standup paddlers compete on a three-mile loop.

Awards are to be presented to first- through third-place finishers in each age and boat/board category.

Spectators can watch The Bogey & Bacall Classic from the dock and shoreline at Florida Bay Outfitters, the Caribbean Club, Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill, Sundowners on the Bay and Señor Frijoles restaurants.

Entry fee for racers is $55 per race or $70 for both days. Specially priced race weekend accommodations are available at Key Largo lodging properties.

Event information: www.racethekeys.com

Key Largo visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keylargo or 800-822-1088

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KEY WEST, Florida Keys — In 1965 the Key West Art Center originated and sponsored a show of original fine art to promote the cultural image of the island city. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25-26, the 47th annual Old Island Days Art Festival is to continue that tradition with works by approximately 100 fine artists from around the United States and Canada.

Now a nationally recognized event, the open-air art show is still presented by the Key West Art Center in the historic Old Town district. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, and admission is free.

Each year, the festival features pieces in media  such as watercolor, oil paint, acrylic, sculpture, collage, photography and other fine arts. The show is juried to ensure high-quality offerings.

Key West’s Whitehead Street is to be closed to vehicular traffic from Greene to Eaton streets, creating a lively outdoor marketplace where attendees can enjoy exhibitors’ offerings in the typically balmy February weather.

Booths also are to be placed on Caroline Street within Truman Annex, a gracious enclave that includes the Harry S. Truman Little White House where the late president spent 175 days during his 1945-1953 tenure in office.

Proceeds from the show support the Key West Art Center’s programs and maintain the historic 301 Front St. building that houses its gallery.

Event information: www.keywestartcenter.com or 305-294-1243

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

Social: facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest • twitter.com/thefloridakeys • YouTube.com/FloridaKeysTV

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KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Since 1999, the Key West Pops Orchestra has presented vibrant, diverse musical offerings ranging from Broadway favorites and holiday showcases to opera-oriented concerts. The highlight of the Pops’ 13th season is a two-night concert performance of “Kiss Me, Kate,” the Cole Porter classic from Broadway’s Golden Age.

The curtain is to rise on the production at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 24-25, at Key West’s Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.

The Pops’ annual musical-in-concert features a cast of guest artists, led by noted soprano and former Miss America Susan Powell and Broadway veteran Richard White, paired with respected local talents. Directed by Tony Award nominee Lee Roy Reams with musical direction by Pops founder and artistic director Vincent Zito, it offers lively dance sequences and hit songs including “Too Darn Hot” and “So in Love.”

Since its beginnings, the Pops has been dedicated to providing high-caliber live orchestral and vocal music to audiences in Key West and the Florida Keys. Zito, a professionally trained conductor as well as an artistic director, carefully selects qualified local and regional musicians to support featured soloists.

Each season’s musical offerings run the gamut from Broadway’s best to light classical, light opera and Americana. The Pops has showcased soloists from Broadway and Metropolitan Opera House stages such as Barbara Conrad, Powell, Reams, Leslie Uggams and even “La Cage Aux Folles” composer and lyricist Jerry Herman — as well as a wide variety of Florida Keys performers.

Tickets for “Kiss Me, Kate” are available at www.keystix.com, with prices ranging from $30 to $100 per person based on seat location.

Event information: www.keywestpops.org

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

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MARATHON, Florida Keys — Some of the finest homes and lushest gardens on the islands of Marathon are to be open to the public during the Marathon Garden Club’s annual House & Garden Tour set for Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Private single-family homes and waterfront island retreats are to be featured during the combination driving and walking tour. The homes and gardens can be visited in any order.

The garden club’s grounds at mile marker 50 bayside also are to be open for exploration, with attractions including a flower show titled “There’s No Place Like Home.”

The annual tour showcases the Keys’ outdoor lifestyle. Highlights are to include an exploration of the landscape of the Florida Keys’ largest single-family home, a 12-acre private island estate featuring a saltwater pond, infinity pool and private beach.

Other standouts include Stingray Sound, a private estate constructed in 1992 to reflect contemporary architectural design in its expansive curved glass walls, and Paradise South, a luxurious haven with a tiki bar, pool and private peninsula.

Each of the homes has stairways, and extensive walking is involved at private estates. Public restrooms are available at the Marathon Garden Club only. No pets or refreshments are allowed in the homes.

Admission is $25 per person including refreshments and admission to the flower show. Tickets can be purchased at the garden club or at any of the homes on the day of the tour.

In addition, raffle tickets are available for a chance to win watercolor prints donated by local artists. The images are on display at the garden club and the drawing is to be held March 3.

Event information: www.marathongardenclub.org or 305-743-4971

Marathon visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/marathon or 1-800-262-7284

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