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party-time-connection · 4 months

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Party Time Connection

Tampa, FL, is a vibrant city located on Florida's Gulf Coast, stretching along the north shore of Tampa Bay and the east shore of Old Tampa Bay. As the largest city in the Tampa Bay area and the county seat of Hillsborough County, Tampa boasts an estimated population of 403,364 in 2023, making it the 49th-most populous city in the United States and the third-largest in Florida, after Jacksonville and Miami.

Tampa's economy is diverse and robust, encompassing sectors such as tourism, healthcare, finance, insurance, technology, construction, and maritime industries. The port in Tampa Bay, the largest in Florida, contributes over $15 billion annually to the economy. Key economic drivers include tourism, with attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, and the Florida Aquarium drawing millions of visitors each year. Healthcare is another vital sector, with several major hospitals and healthcare facilities, including Tampa General Hospital and the Moffitt Cancer Center, located in the city. Tampa is also a financial hub, hosting the headquarters of large corporations such as Suncoast Credit Union, Bloomin' Brands, WellCare, Jabil, TECO Energy, and Raymond James Financial. The city’s growing tech scene is supported by various startups and established tech companies, while the maritime industry, centered around the Port of Tampa, handles significant cargo and serves as a home port for various cruise lines with Caribbean itineraries.

The city comprises several distinct neighborhoods, many of which were once independent towns or unincorporated communities. These neighborhoods include Downtown Tampa, New Tampa, West Tampa, East Tampa, North Tampa, and South Tampa. Notable areas include Ybor City, Forest Hills, Ballast Point, Sulphur Springs, Seminole Heights, Tampa Heights, Palma Ceia, Hyde Park, Davis Islands, Harbour Island, Tampa Palms, College Hill, Water Street, Channelside, and the non-residential areas of Gary and the Westshore Business District.

Architecturally, Tampa features a variety of styles. Many high-rises exhibit post-modern architecture, while city hall and the Tampa Theatre are examples of Art Deco design. Downtown redevelopment, particularly residential projects and the Tampa Riverwalk along the Hillsborough River, has been a focus since Mayor Pam Iorio's tenure, continued by Mayor Bob Buckhorn and now Mayor Jane Castor. The Channelside area is undergoing significant renovations led by Jeff Vinik, owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning, in collaboration with Bill Gates and other investors. New museums, including the Tampa Bay History Center, the Glazer Children's Museum, and the Tampa Museum of Art, have also opened.

Tampa's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous arts and entertainment venues, including the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa Theatre, and the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre. Performing arts organizations such as the Florida Orchestra, Opera Tampa, and the Tampa Bay Symphony are based here. The city’s nightlife thrives in districts like Channelside, Ybor City, SoHo, International Plaza and Bay Street, and Seminole Hard Rock. Tampa is also a center for professional wrestling and death metal music, with several renowned bands and recording studios located here.

Tampa operates over 165 parks and beaches within its limits, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Popular destinations include Al Lopez Park, Cypress Point Park, and the Tampa Riverwalk. The city's park system supports a wide range of recreational activities, from jogging and cycling to picnicking and boating.

Tampa is a hub for education and research, home to institutions like the University of South Florida (USF), the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough Community College. USF, in particular, is known for its research programs and medical school, contributing to the city's reputation as a center for innovation and higher education.

Tampa is passionate about sports, hosting several professional teams. The NFL's Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning, and MLB's Tampa Bay Rays are all based in the city. Tampa also supports a variety of collegiate and minor league teams, and frequently hosts major sporting events such as the Super Bowl and the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Tampa, FL, is a dynamic and diverse city with a rich history, a thriving economy, and a vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're interested in its historical landmarks, architectural styles, economic opportunities, or recreational activities, Tampa offers something for everyone.

Looking to throw an unforgettable bash in the heart of Tampa? Party Time Connection is your one-stop destination for all your party rental needs, whether it's a birthday celebration, corporate event, wedding, or any special occasion. With a wide range of high-quality rental equipment and decor, we have everything you need to elevate your event to the next level.

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Featured Business: Party Time Connection is the ultimate spot for top-notch party rentals and event solutions. We turn regular gatherings into remarkable experiences with our top-tier rental items and services. We've got everything covered from classy furniture to dazzling decorations, cutting-edge audiovisual gear, and stylish photo booths. Our team is committed to providing tailored customer service, making event planning a breeze. Let us assist in making your celebration truly unforgettable. Get in touch today to discuss your event requirements and bring your ideas to life.

Contact: Party Time Connection 3690 W Gandy Blvd, #135, Tampa, FL 33611, United States VFVV+5J Tampa, Florida, USA (813) 270-6690 27.8928983,-82.5059256 http://www.partytimeconnection.com/

YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGs480uis-o

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Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/party-time-connection/party-time-connection

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Medium: https://medium.com/@partytimeconnection5/party-time-connection-0b3d5e290b3c

Weebly: https://partytimeconnection-fl.weebly.com/

Strikingly: https://partytimeconnection.mystrikingly.com/

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Google Maps CID: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=15154724271692810632 Google Site: https://sites.google.com/view/partytimeconnection/

Twitter List: https://twitter.com/i/lists/1753004364451688580

Twitter Tweets: https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752977949131936165 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752978276048675082 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752978893894795346 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752979117891584366 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752979506489643052 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752979964310499611 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752985111606468915 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752996097864442248 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1753005831824842913 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752996789563916554 https://twitter.com/PartyTimeCoMD/status/1752997210877526428

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#party time connection #tampa florida #party rentals #inflatable rentals #Youtube #SoundCloud

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robertgolfcartrentaltips · 5 months

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Beaches for family and Animal Owners in Florida

Florida beckons families and animal lovers alike with its sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and endless sunshine. But finding a beach that caters to both the needs of your playful pups and the desires of your sandcastle-building crew can feel like a challenge. Fear not, fellow adventurers! This guide will help you discover the perfect Florida beach for your family and furry companions. You might adjust to the fact that you will walk on the hot sand of the beach, but your dog can't. Make the exploration even more enjoyable with the convenience of a Golf Cart for Rent in Port St. Lucie. It will help you and your furry friend explore more amazing places that you might miss without it.

Finding the Perfect Beach Buddy Beach

Not all beaches in Florida welcome four-legged friends. Luckily, there are plenty of designated dog beaches where your pup can frolic freely. Here are some key things to consider when choosing a dog-friendly beach:

Leash Laws: Some beaches allow off-leash play, while others require your dog to be on a leash at all times. Choose a beach that aligns with your dog's temperament and training level.

Water Conditions: Calm, shallow waters are ideal for dogs who love to splash. Be mindful of strong currents or waves that could pose a danger to your furry friend.

Amenities: Some dog beaches offer doggy waste bags, water fountains for both humans and canines and even rinse stations to remove sand after a fun-filled day.

Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in Florida

Now that you know what to look for, let's explore some of Florida's top dog-friendly beaches:

Jensen Beach: Bring your furry friend to a beach made just for dogs! They can run around freely, splash in the water, and make new pup pals at the dog beach. Afterward, there's a fenced-in area called the Paw Playground with fun obstacles to climb on and play with. Feeling energetic? You can have a rental golf cart in Jensen Beach to explore the scenic beauty- Jensen Beach is made up of several islands connected!

Stuart Beach: Looking for an awesome beach day with your pup? Stuart Beach has miles of beautiful shoreline and many areas where your dog can join the fun! Build sandcastles, splash in the waves, or just unwind with your furry friend. And for those in your crew who like to catch a wave or cast a line, check out nearby parks like Flagler Beach State Park, assuming this is still close by, for some great surfing and fishing!

Bonita Beach Dog Beach (Bonita Springs): This lively beach caters to both sunbathers and canine companions. Let your dog frolic in the waves or chase seagulls (responsibly, of course!). After a day at the beach, explore the nearby shops and restaurants in Bonita Springs.

Making Memories with Your Pack

Once you've chosen your beach, here are some tips for a fun and safe day out with your family and furry friend:

Pack Plenty of Water: Florida sunshine can be intense. Bring enough water for everyone, including your dog, to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Bring Shade: An umbrella or beach tent will provide much-needed shade for both you and your dog.

Don't Forget the Dog Essentials: Pack waste bags, a leash, a comfortable dog bed or towel, and dog-friendly sunscreen if needed.

Plan for Exercise: A tired dog is a happy dog! Bring along a frisbee or ball for some playtime in the sand.

Clean Up After Your Pup: Always be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog to keep the beach clean and enjoyable for everyone.

Beyond the Beach: Adventures for the Whole Family

Florida offers so much more than just beautiful beaches. Consider these family-friendly activities to complement your beach trip:

Explore Nature: Florida is home to stunning natural parks and preserves. Take a hike, go kayaking, or embark on a wildlife-watching tour.

Visit a Theme Park: From the thrills of Orlando's world-famous theme parks to the educational fun of aquariums and zoos, Florida has something for everyone.

Dine Out: Indulge in fresh seafood or try local specialties at one of Florida's many restaurants.

With its endless stretches of sandy beaches, welcoming dog-friendly zones, and family-oriented activities, Florida is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation with your entire pack. Your fluffy friend might not be able to tolerate the heat of the sand. It is better to search for the best golf cart rental service near you in Port St. Lucie. So pack your bags, grab your leash, and get ready to create lasting memories under the Florida sun!

#golf cart rental #golf cart #4 person golf cart #renting golf cart #golf cart for rent

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udo0stories · 5 months

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You have come to the right spot if you are searching for Key Largo's best beaches! The largest island in the Sunshine State's Florida Keys, Key Largo is home to numerous beaches. It is part of the Upper Keys. This coral cay archipelago, which stretches from Biscayne National Park to Key West, represents the southernmost point of the continental United States. It provides all the warmth and sunshine of the tropics without the inconvenience of a protracted flight! However, you should be aware that Key Largo's public beaches are not quite as breathtaking as those in other parts of the state. Not that they are not breathtakingly beautiful, but they are usually smaller and have a mixture of pebbles and sand. Sarasota is not Key Largo. All you have to do is think of them as the starting point for some of the greatest water sports available in the US: kayaking, boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling set the standard for Key Largo's best beaches. These pristine waters, teeming with mangrove, coral reef, and seagrass ecosystems, are the natural home of tropical fish, dolphins, manatees, and yes, sharks. If you can not get enough of the sand between your toes, make reservations at a Key Largo hotel that has a private beach. You can visit small islands, national parks, and private hotel beaches with this Key Largo beach guide. For more beaches in the Florida Keys close to Key Largo, scroll ahead. This post was co-authored by Adventurous Kate and Hannah Cooper, and it was published in February 2024. One of Key Largo's greatest beaches, Far Beach, is pictured via Shutterstock. Top Beaches in Key Largo There are numerous options available to you when it comes to public beaches in Key Largo! There is plenty to do in Key Largo, including swimming, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Here are some of the top choices: Near Beach Far Beach is located in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park along the Largo Sound shoreline. These shallow waters are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving because they are teeming with marine life and living coral reefs. Largo Sound is calm despite being fed by the Atlantic Ocean, and there is a small area of the beach designated for swimming. The beach is more suitable for enjoying the calm waters with a snorkel because it is quite pebbly; both kids and adults enjoy wearing their aqua socks here! There is an admission fee of $4.50 to enter the state park. This also covers the next of Key Largo’s top beaches… Cannon Beach in Key Largo, via Shutterstock Beach Cannon Beach John Pennekamp State Park's other sandy spot is Cannon Beach, so named because of its 17th-century cannons. Scuba diving and glass-bottom boat tours are highly popular activities on this beach in Key Largo, which is conveniently located next to the visitor center. Ideal for non-swimmers, these glide over the artificial reef and several shipwrecks, although scuba diving brings you closer to the tropical fish. As with its neighbor, Cannon Beach is bounded by mangroves. It’s somewhere you can easily hang out for a couple of hours, enjoying the warm water and natural beauty. There’s also an aquarium right next to the parking lot. Harry Harris Park Beach in Key Largo, via Fotoluminate LLC on Shutterstock Harry Harris Park and Beach The best public beach in Key Largo is Harry Harris Beach Park, which is located to the south. It is the ideal place to spend a whole day with younger children and is situated on Tavernier's Atlantic side. There is a calm, deep tidal pool for swimming at the park's beach. In addition, there is a playground, a boat ramp, baseball fields, and a basketball court. It is a sensible choice for an extended stay because it has picnic tables and restrooms. On weekends and holidays, Harry Harris Beach admission is $8. For locals living in this region of Florida, it is always free. Rowell's Waterfront Park, Key Largo, via Flickr user Monroe County BOCC. The Waterfront Park at Rowell Among Key Largo's public beaches is a hidden gem called Rowell's Waterfront Park.

This eight-acre, recently developed recreation area is located next to mile marker 104.5. There is a swimming hole that is 20 feet deep and a picnic area at the beach park. This is not your usual tropical beach; it is more like an enormous, untamed swimming pool where you can jump and splash around. A kayak and paddleboard launch is also available. You can expect to meet some four-legged friends as leashed dogs are welcome. Rowell's Waterfront Park is amazing at sunset and is free to enter. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a teeny-tiny forested island bobbing off the shore of Key Largo and Islamorada. Robbie’s Marina operates a very (very!) limited ferry service. Otherwise, getting there is via private boat or kayak, which gives a Robinson Crusoe vibe. These turquoise waters protect 10,000 acres of seagrass. Kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling are permitted in designated areas. It’s also worth visiting the residence of William J. Matheson: the chemist who bought the island in 1919. The admission fee for Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is $2.50. Note the park is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Beyond Robbie’s, there are several other local boat rentals. Sunset off Playa Largo Resort & Spa in the Florida Keys Best Private Beaches in Key Largo As noted above, the public Key Largo beaches can be a bit crowded and are often more of a gateway to water activities than somewhere to relax in the sand. If that’s what you’re looking for, consider staying at a resort with a private beach. Rock Reef Resort The Rock Reef Resort is a family-owned property on the bay side of Key Largo. Its bonsai gardens and stunning private beach are exclusively for hotel guests. This mellow beach is strewn with hammocks, loungers, and picnic spots plus a pier for dreamy sunsets. Complimentary kayaks, peddle boats, and paddleboards are available for guests to take cruising around the mangroves. At an additional cost, the hotel’s private boat ramp and dock are suitable for boats no longer than 21 feet. Make time for island time and check rates for the Rock Reef Resort. Bayside Inn Key Largo Slap-bang in Downtown Key Largo, the Bayside Inn unfurls onto a private beach overlooking Buttonwood Sound. This guests-only beach is cocooned in between two piers to create a protected tidal pool for swimming. Leaping into the calm waters is strongly encouraged but you can also hole up under the palm trees with a book for hours upon hours. The sunsets here are to die for. If you do one thing, take out a paddleboard and catch Mother Nature’s show from the water. Book a stay at the Bayside Inn Key Largo. Playa Largo Resort & Spa Playa Largo Resort & Spa is where to stay in Key Largo for unabashed luxury. Claiming 14.5 acres of white sand and aquamarine waters, the hotel has a great beach for lounging under the sunshine and dabbling in watersports. I had dinner here one night, and it was a fabulous meal with the view of a fantastic pink and purple sunset just off the beach. That’s the photo you see above in this post. Separate from the main lodge, The Hammocks at Playa Largo comprise exclusive bungalows and one three-bedroom beach house directly on the shoreline. The cottages are surrounded by palm trees and have a real castaway feel – but with all your four-star creature comforts. Splash out on a night at the Playa Largo Resort & Spa. Sunset Cove The fuss-free motel Sunset Cove is an excellent place for a back-to-basics Floridian beach getaway. A huge bonus: many cabins are dog-friendly so you can bring Fido along for the private beach experience. Waterfront suites and tiki cottages spare you the bother of having to drive out to the public beaches in Key Largo. There are also a couple of “Fun and Interesting” accommodations such as retro trailers with beach access. From there, dive straight into the crystal-clear waters of Florida Bay and help yourself to complimentary kayaks and paddleboards from the dock. Browse availability for Sunset Cove.

Bungalows Key Largo Bungalows Key Largo is an adults-only resort in Key Largo with all the luxury trimmings. In addition to the private beach, the all-inclusive has two pools and a full-service spa. Grab a tropical cocktail from the Sunset Tiki Bar to sip on the sand or put your name down for the floating tiki boats. Private bungalows are either swallowed up by the botanical garden or set directly on the sand with gulf views. There are tons of activities on-site but do make time to kick back in one of the beachside cabanas. Check rates for Bungalows Key Largo. Coconut Palm Inn Nestled in a coconut grove directly on the beach, this little oasis in Tavernier overlooks the Florida Bay. Coconut Palm Inn has a private boat dock where you can moor a rental as well as complementary kayaks for guests. Paddle out across the shallow waters and explore the mangrove islands floating in the lagoon off the protected harbor. After an aquatic adventure, you can put your feet up in one of the hammocks on the private beach. This awesome resort also has beach games like Giant Jenga plus free s’mores goodies to enjoy around the fire pits. Book a stay at Coconut Palm Inn. Anne’s Beach, just 30 minutes from Key Largo, via Shutterstock. More Great Beaches Near Key Largo If you’re up for a little road trip or a visit to a nearby island, you’ll have even more beach options. Here are a few other beaches worth checking out in other towns. For more, be sure to check out my guide to the 25 Best Beaches in the Florida Keys! Anne’s Beach Comprising a white-sand beach and super shallow water, Anne’s Beach is a great spot for a paddle in Islamorada. The boardwalk through the mangroves is perfect for a leisurely stroll with the chance to spot local birdlife. Located at mile marker 73.5, it’s a 40-minute drive (26 miles) from Downtown Key Largo. For more in Islamorada, be sure to check out my guide to the best things to do in Islamorada! Indian Key Historic State Park Made up of coastal and tropical hammock, mangroves, and rugged beaches, Indian Key Historic State Park drifts off Islamorada’s Atlantic coast. Most folk launch their kayaks from Robbie’s Marina and spend a day circumnavigating the island. The day fee is $2.50 (payable online). Sombrero Beach Fifty miles west of Key Largo (mile marker 50), Sombrero Beach in Marathon is where Loggerhead turtles nest between April and October. As one of the sandiest Florida Keys beaches, this is the perfect spot to lay a towel under the bobbing palm trees or get a cardio boost on the oceanfront volleyball courts. Calusa Beach No list of the best beaches in Key Largo can pass on a mention of Calusa Beach – one of the few natural beaches in the region. Located in the Bahia Honda State Park, this one is closer to Big Pine Key and Key West. However, if time is on your side then it’s worth the 1.5-hour drive from Key Largo and you could consider camping for the night. More on the Florida Keys: More on Florida: Have you been to Key Largo? What are your favorite beaches? Share away!

#Beautiful #Destinations #Discover #Travel #Vacation #Beaches #Florida #floridakeys #Key #Largo #Private #public

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keystechnology · 6 months

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Hire Best Team for Aquarium Maintenance in Florida Keys! Sit back and relax while Keys Aquatics do the heavy lifting for you! Aquarium maintenance on regular basis allow you to enjoy your fish tank while leaving all of the maintenance and up keep to our specialists. Contact us and your absolutely everything related to aquarium maintenance is taken care of. Our aquariums are professionally installed for you, and come complete with everything from the tank, decorations, equipment, fish, even the food. A healthy, attractive and quite aquarium is accomplished through equipment, design, understanding creature compatibility and performing a set of routine cleaning tasks that will consistently maintain the aquariums water chemistry within normal parameters. Check our scheduled Aquarium maintenance programs for preventive aquarium maintenance in Florida Keys!http://keysaquatics.com/services/maintenance/

#florida keys aquarium maintenance

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mollydsails · 2 years

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February 9 - Molly D has been docked in Key West for 9 days. Weather has been in the upper 70s most days. Sun has been plentiful as has been the wind. No complaints. Our friends from Niantic left last Friday. Our boat friends Lee and Allison from Southport, NC are here in Key West. Summer neighbors Tom and Robyn are here for a long weekend. We have dinner plans tomorrow night. A sailboat neighbor came in on Tuesday and had extreme difficulty docking due to strong winds (and a crappy boat design). Today he delivered a bottle of wine today as a way of saying thanks for our understanding as the bow of his boat compressed our dinghy while trying to dock. No harm done to the dinghy or Molly D.

A “thank you” bottle of wine in an insulated bag.

Today we had our first manatee sighting in the marina. A couple of boaters who are not familiar with Florida’s regulations regarding manatees gave the manatee drinks of fresh water from the dock. Another boater set them straight, as there is a fine for giving fresh water to manatees.

Hello manatee!

Some things to know about Key West. Chickens and roosters are everywhere. They poop everywhere. Shoes will need to be thrown away after walking the sidewalks. Roosters start their day between 4 and 5. Therefore, your day begins at that time as well.

Poop covered sidewalk

The reason for the poop on the sidewalk.

It’s best to walk down Duval Street before 11. Crowds are light. During crowded times, walking parallel streets will get you where you want to go without having to dodge people on the sidewalk. B.O’s Fish Wagon serves excellent fish and the best hot dogs ever. The hot dogs are deep fried and served on soft, tasty Cuban bread. Despite being deep fried, there’s NO grease residue in the bun!

Deep fried hot dog from B.I’d Fish Wagon

Chickens roam freely at B.O’s. And everywhere else in Key West

The water here is beautiful!

Southernmost Beach

Don’t pay big bucks for a sunset cruise. There are many places along the waterfront to see the sunset for free. In the time we’ve been here there has been one night where the sunset could be seen clearly. All other nights cloud cover interfered.

Perfect sunset.

Don’t waste your time going to Mallory Square for the sunset. Too crowded. Years ago the sunset acts were great—jugglers, the cat man, fire eater, escape artist, bagpiper, magician, strong man, musicians and mimes. The acts now are very lame and there are about a quarter of them that are holdouts and they are not very good. There are good things in Key West such as the farmer’s market on Thursdays at Truman Waterfront park.

Farmer’s market fruit and vegetables.

The waterfront is full of activity such as sailing trips, fishing charters, jet ski tours, parasailing, pleasure boats coming and going, cruise ships, people in their dinghies coming ashore from anchorages and there are many fine restaurants from which to choose. There are many museums to visit such as the Hemingway House, Key West Lighthouse, Harry Truman’s Little White House, the KW Aquarium, the Shipwreck Museum and Mel Fisher’s Treasure Museum to name a few. There is also the Conch Train tour and a Ghost Tour. Warm water, blue skies, gentle breezes—all is great!

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bkwespoweredbytripangle · 2 years

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Best Places For Vacation on Florida USA

Workaholism is a problem that society is facing more and more. We frequently put so much emotional and mental energy into our work that we forget to occasionally take a break. The majority of people are reducing the gap between work and personal life which is hampering their both lives. In addition to chronic stress and physical suffering brought on by repeated exposure to stressful situations, burnout is also becoming more and more widespread. We cannot prevent stress at work, but we can try to lessen its negative effects on us. Our quality of life is ruined by stress, which can also cause more serious emotional and physical issues. Stress also has a detrimental impact on our productivity. So, in such a scenario having a quick vacation can give you a sense of mental peace which further not only increases your working efficiency but can lead to a healthy and fit lifestyle.

Florida, a magnificent city located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean with an alluring vacation rental site, can be your next vacation location. This city has spectacular fishing, magnificent beaches, diverse wildlife and great diving places. Florida ranges from modern Miami to colorful key west to quaint.

After choosing the vacation destination, another factor that makes your stay more worthwhile is the place you choose to stay. So, here in this article, we will discuss the best places and vacation rentals in Destin Florida.

Best Places to Visit in Florida

Florida city has more than 8,000 miles of shoreline. This city has numerous destinations to explore, hence it is very difficult to pick the most suitable place for your next gateway. So, here in this article, we have consolidated the list of places based on the vacation rental site, availability of accommodation and the number of places you must refer to while choosing the best places in Florida.

Miami Beach

Miami is a sprawling metropolis city with stunning beaches, lively nightlife, art galleries & museums, top-notch dining options,vacation rentals in 30a and elegant accommodations. One of the best spots to visit in Florida is Miami Beach, where there are numerous things to do. South Beach is the part of Miami that is the most diverse spot. The Lincoln Road Mall is a great place to shop since it combines high-end designers and fashion stores with surf shops and tiki bars. A well-preserved example of 1920s architecture, the Ocean Drive art deco zone is home to numerous beachside pubs, eateries, and nightclubs.

Orlando

Orlando is one of the most tourist-friendly towns in the world due to its unmatched assortment of amusement parks, sunny weather, and thriving Downtown. Here in the city, the f, family activities do certainly steal the show, but there are plenty of other things to do. This location offers a variety of shopping opportunities, exciting nightlife activities, or fun day outings to explore pristine nature, including some of the best beaches on the Atlantic coast and the Everglades wetlands. This place is located in the heart of the city and you will get several vacation rentals in Destin Florida to stay.

St. Augustine

If you are fond of history and culture, then St. Augustine is the most suitable place for you. It is one of the oldest cities in America. From living history museums to Spanish-style architecture there are many more things to explore in this city. You can find historic lighthouses, ornate hotels, castles and military forts in a single place. To explore the Medieval Torture Museum and Colonial Quarter you can take a tour via boat, trolley and train. The other prominent feature of this place is distilleries and wineries which makes this place heaven for drink and food lovers.

Tampa

One of the state's most varied vacation spots is the city of Tampa, which is situated along the Gulf Coast. Tampa is a terrific family holiday location due to an abundance of lovely beaches. Kids can have fun at the Busch Gardens amusement park, Florida Aquarium, Glazer Children's Museum, and ZooTampa. There are also craft breweries, championship golf courses, and top-notch spas that adults can enjoy. There are also lots of options for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and even participating in heart-pounding sports like ziplining and challenging ropes courses high in the treetops. Due to the availability of a wide range of vacation rental sites, there are no worries about staying here.

Sarasota

Sarasota is an amazing destination to take for vacation if you are a nature lover as the famous Myakka River State Park of Florida is located in this place. The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and Lido Beach are two more interesting outdoor activities to explore in this place. Tourists who enjoy cultural and arts experiences prefer to visit Sarasota as many plays, art exhibitions and plays are here. The months of late February through mid-May and mid-October through late November are popular times for tourists to travel to Sarasota.

How to Book Perfect Vacation Rentals?

Choosing the wrong vacation rental site can ruin your complete vacation. Every traveler prefers their own style when they plan their vacation i.e. some prefer the predictability of the best hotel chain while some hunt for more privacy and space on vacation rental sites.

Booking With Ease can make your search seamless and easy. You can book vacation rentals in Destin Florida and vacation rentals in 30a via this platform. The benefits of booking a vacation rental site via Booking With Ease is that their partners provide you domestic perks such as a dryer, washer, full kitchen, and several amenities which you might not get in the hotel. They make you feel more comfortable even if it's your first visit to that city. So, rather than moving forward with the wrong partner, you can rely on Booking With Ease to book vacation rentals in Destin Florida.

Conclusion For numerous visitors, exploring historical places, nightlife, and bars, sampling local cuisine, and dining out is the priority on their to-do list during their vacation in Florida. However, this city will not disappoint with its broad array of seafood such as shrimp, stone crab, and grouper. This city offers many more places than we have listed above. With Booking With Ease, you can get rid of the biggest headache of your vocation i.e. finding an ideal vacation rental site.

#vacation rentals in 30a #vacation rental site #vacation rentals in destin florida #top vacation rental sites #top rated vacation rental sites

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keysaquatics · 3 years

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Importance of having Florida Keys aquarium design

An aquarium gives a new look or an attractive frame to a place. Florida Keys aquarium design service providers maintains by creating an aquarium. An aquarium not only decorates a house but also changes the environment of a house. Florida Keys aquarium design works with the designers, carpenters, and architects to ensure that it will look like a decorative art which will give a amazing look to the house.

A biological balance plays a vital role while creating a home environment, we focus only building a home but biological balance makes that home a peaceful, energetic, active environment by maintaining mental stability.

Florida Keys aquarium design maintains that kind of thing by designing and planning biological creativity. Another thing while working on a material it consists strong glass material which cannot be broken in any kind of situation

That’s why the aquarium is made with the fibreglass’s to protect it from breaking.

Florida Keys aquarium design plans a biological marine view while creating the aquarium, that marine consists of sea plants, sea animals which cannot comes outside as it will consist of strong material and stay up to long time or years.

They are highly efficiency and eco-friendly with Microbial supplies for molecular and culturable applications while maintaining they takes cares of climatic behaviour. Weekly changing of water services are providable.

A healthy, attractive and quiet aquarium is proficient through equipment, design, understanding creature compatibility and carrying out a set of routine cleaning tasks that will consistently maintain the aquariums water chemistry within normal parameters. In addition, an ongoing evaluation of equipment and aquarium performance is necessary so the aquarist has a chance to intrude and moderate, or prevent any issues with aquarium. While creating these systems they sustains the light systems, decorative items, cooling systems for smooth running purpose. Both inside and outside cleaning of cabinets are well maintained weekly. They used to take care of fish foods.

Using innovative technology ideas, they used to make marine aquatic biological aquarium at homes. Installation is quite affordable with better maintenance and quality products. The aquarium is exclusively build with the conservation of best quality and quantity of products. The marine aquatic consist of supply of nutrients as well. Although a little chemical things were added to make those products surviving for lifetime.

#Florida Keys aquarium design

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sbanimation · 4 years

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Key West’s Best Aquarium Design Team A Minute Away! Contact Now Keys Aquatics is specialized in designing and maintaining state-of-the-art aquariums to perfectly fit your home or place of business. We work closely with clients, designers, carpenters and/or architectures to make sure that your new aquarium design for residential or commercial building in Key West is not just a fish tank but a work of art. Call now for a free consultation! http://keysaquatics.com/.

#florida keys aquarium design

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keysaquaticsblog · 20 days

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Creating a Stunning Underwater World: The Art of Florida Keys Aquarium Design

The allure of the ocean, with its vibrant marine life and mesmerizing coral reefs, captivates millions worldwide. For those living in or visiting the Florida Keys, this natural wonder is just a short dive away. But what if you could bring a piece of the ocean into your home or business? This is where the art of aquarium design comes into play. In particular, Florida Keys aquarium design has become synonymous with creating stunning underwater worlds that capture the essence of this unique region.

Superior Qualities of Florida Keys Aquarium Design

1. Attention to Detail and Authenticity

Designers strive to create a natural-looking habitat that mirrors the marine environments found in the Keys. This involves selecting the right mix of coral, rocks, plants, and marine life that are native to the region. The goal of Florida Keys aquarium design is to create a balanced ecosystem where every element, from the smallest shrimp to the largest fish, plays a vital role in the overall health and appearance of the aquarium.

2. Customization to Reflect Personal Aesthetics

One of the standout qualities of Florida Keys aquarium design is the high level of customization available. Whether you prefer a vibrant, colorful reef teeming with life or a more subdued, serene environment, designers work closely with clients to bring their vision to life. The design process takes into account the space available, the desired ambiance, and the type of marine life preferred.

3. Use of Advanced Technology

Modern Florida Keys aquarium design incorporates cutting-edge technology to create and maintain stunning aquatic displays. This includes advanced filtration systems, LED lighting that mimics natural sunlight, and automated feeding systems that ensure the health and well-being of the marine life.

Key Considerations in Florida Keys Aquarium Design

1. Choosing the Right Marine Life

In the Florida Keys, this often means choosing species that are native to the area, such as angelfish, clownfish, and various species of coral. It’s important to ensure that the marine life selected can coexist peacefully and thrive in the environment created.

2. Incorporating Local Elements

To truly capture the essence of the Florida Keys, designers often incorporate local elements into the aquarium design. This could include using rocks and sand sourced from the region, as well as incorporating driftwood and other natural materials found in the Keys. These elements help to create a more authentic and immersive experience, making the aquarium a true reflection of the local environment.

Florida Keys aquarium design is more than just a hobby; it’s an art form that combines creativity, science, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. The superior qualities of these designs, from their attention to detail and customization to their use of advanced technology and commitment to sustainability, set them apart as some of the best in the world.

#Florida Keys aquarium design

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theme-park-concepts · 4 years

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Five Act Structure And Themed Experiences

Ok so now you have your four pieces of framework. Now what? Well let's look now at classic five act structure. You'll remember it from English class. I'm no expert, but here's my summary

Act 1: Exposition: the world is introduced

Act 2: Rising Action: the main character sets out on a journey

Act 3: Arrival: the character achieves their initial goal. But at the midpoint of this act something happens which changes the equation and sets them on a new journey

Act 4: Journey Home: character sets off on the final quest. The final confrontation occurs at the transition to act 5

Act 5: Resolution and Denouement

The key thing to remember is that each key moment in the story occurs at an act transition, with the third act split in two - the key reversal occurring there. (All of what I'm about to say could be mapped onto 3 act structure too, but I think 5 makes it easier to talk about).

So anyway...you're building a ride. What goes where? Well I'd propose that nearly all attractions follow a simple rule. The Journey is everything that happens before the midpoint and the Core Experience is nearly everything that comes after. The theme and subject are what color each scene within and determine the ultimate outcome.

In modern attraction design it looks something like

Act 1: Entrance and early queue. The setting and world are introduced.

Act 2: Queue: the queue takes us on a journey into the world on our way to a promised experience (not always the core experience, but often). We learn about the world, and it's rules, and why we're there.

Act 3 Part One: Preshow: We arrive at the promised destination and new information is revealed that will set us on a new quest.

Act 3 Part Two: Load/secondary queue: The core experience (which follows its own three act structure) begins

Act 4: The Ride: We live out the meat of the core experience which leads us to one final climatic moment.

Act 5: Climax & Exit: We experience the climatic moment of the core experience, and the story quickly resolves itself as we exit the vehicle with a denouement then or shortly thereafter.

For example Indiana Jones and the temple of the forbidden eye

Act 1: We come across an archeological dog at a temple

Act 2: We venture into the temple to see what's up and learn this is a creepy place.

Act 3: Part 1 : we come across Sala and he tells us about quest expeditions we've somehow signed up for and the legend of the forbidden eye. Also we need to find Indy.

Act 3 Part 2: we decide to go on our own expedition (the core experience begins)

Act 4: The expedition throws up many obstacles of increasing threat level, preventing us from rescuing Indy until

Act 5: we nearly get crushed by a Boulder and narrowly escape. Indy lectures us since we were the ones that needed rescuing and we slowly make our way out of the scary temple.

Or Rise of the Resistance

Act1: we find the rebel base

Act 2. We are tasked with a mission to space but something goes wrong

Act 3 Part 1: We're captured and thrown in prison

Act 3 Part 2: We're rescued and begin our prison break (core experience)

Act 4: we journey through the prison facing increasing obstacles trying to make our way home until

Act 5: a final climatic encounter and daring escape pod run. We're told we did a good job and exit.

As long as queues are long, and rides are short I predict this is the specific way we'll see the structure implemented. What's interesting though is looking to the past to see how rides and attractions then still followed the same structure BUT implemented it differently.

For example, before queues were really designed as part of the experience, it was common for the ride to begin as early as the beginning of Act 2. Let's reference Pirates of the Caribbean (California version)

Act 1: We are introduced to New Orleans square and the Blue Bayou.

Act 2: We begin a journey through the bayou and enter mysterious caves

Act 3 Part 1: We learn that pirates used to inhabit these caves

Act 3 Part 2: The pirates materialize and the core experience of seeing pirates do pirate things begins

Act 4: Pirates do pirate things until

Act 5: The town climatically burns down, they all drunkenly kill themselves, and we exit this fever dream and end up back where we started.

Now consider how pirates was adapted when it moved to Florida and it adopted the new fangled immersive queue. The immersive queue replaced The Journey portion of the ride leaving only the core experience. The overall structure of the story was preserved, but what elements achieve it changed.

There's even a ride that has a more unusual implementation. Let's look at The Living Seas. For starters

Theme: The ocean is majestic and cool

Subject: Seabase Alpha

Core Experience: Explore an Alien World (And/or aquarium)

Journey: Specialized technology takes us deep under the sea

Now:

Act 1: We're introduced to the history of sea exploration in a museum and documentary

Act 2: We begin our journey under the sea via Hydrolator

Act 3 Part 1: We take sea cabs to further our journey

Act 3 Part 2: We arrive at Seabase Alpha

Act 4: We explore Seabase Alpha (core experience)

Act 5: We leave Seabase Alpha via Hydrolator

This is the only attraction I'm aware of that used has used the ride as a journey rather than the core experience. It's an unusual implementation but it just goes to show that any means can be used to achieve any part of the structure, as long as all parts of the structure are there, you get yourself a satisfying experience.

The more I think on it, the more I think nearly all attractions can be conceptualized in this framework, and better yet this framework provides a nice blueprint to develop new attractions. Does it apply to your favorite?

#themed entertainment #themed experience #Experience Design #experiential storytelling

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iamalyssadalton · 4 years

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Beach Trip Day 1

Good morning beautiful beach goers! I hope you all had a wonderful first night getting settled into your cabins and doing a bit of resort exploring! I’ve seen several of you out by the pool and on the beach already, and I’m thrilled everyone is so excited to get out and explore!

Now, as I stated in my previous post, residents will only be allowed off the resort property if escorted by a staff member. That being said, each day we will be posting a copy of the itinerary. These will consist of pre-scheduled events and visits to tourist attractions, lead by one or more of our staff members. Anyone wishing to attend any of these events, simply show up at the designated meeting place at the designated time! Of course, anyone interested in doing a little exploring of their own is welcome to find any available staff member to escort them! Any questions, don’t hesitate to ask my gorgeous flowers!

Itinerary for Tuesday, October 6, 2020 -10 AM: Tour of Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park hosted by Reginald Berry and Dorsey Rose ( @dominantberryreg and @subdorseyrose) Meet in the resort front lobby. -Ft. Zachary Taylor is a piece of history, as it acted as a barrier/protection for this part of Florida’s coast during the Civil War. It is home to not only a beautiful view of the coast, but a ton of Civil War monuments and memorabilia.

-11 AM: Tour of the Key West Aquarium, hosted by Dr. Frannie Fabray ( @subfranniefabray) Meet by the resort pool.

-1:30 PM: Sightseeing Trolley Tour hosted by Mia Rutherford and Janelle St. James ( @callmemissmia and @switchjanellestjames) Meet in the resort front lobby. -The Sightseeing Trolley will roll through the most sought-after sights to see, and the most hopping shopping districts in Key West!

#convos: all #convos: starter #convos: events #convos: beachtrip #sanctuary:starter

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udo0stories · 7 months

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keystechnology · 4 years

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Must-know Reasons to hire Florida Keys aquarium design | Keys Aquatics

Aquarium keeping is a popular hobby, and amateur enthusiasts have produced some beautiful tank in recent years as new as well as effective equipment and supplies have come into the market.

Even professional artists have taken to Florida Keys aquarium design, exhibiting aquatic setups as fine art at shows and expositions. At the same time, aquariums remain a desirable element in home decoration, even for those who aren’t themselves aquarium hobbyists.

With all of this inspiration and information obtainable, some may be tempted to try the DIY route when installing an aquarium. However, if you want the best Aquarium design to be installed at your home, consider hiring Professional Florida Keys aquarium design service provider.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Aquarium Designer!

A professional Florida Keys aquarium design can work with builders, renovators, and interior decorators to plan the best steps to construct the perfect aquarium. Functional aquarium design and proper attention to the setting can allow the designer to match the tank to the homeowner’s décor, furniture and lifestyle. In the hands of a skilled aquarium designer, even the largest aquariums can become part of a functional wall or partition, an existing fixture or a piece of furniture.

Particularly for larger aquariums and saltwater aquarium setups, top-quality materials are an absolute requirement. Discount materials may be a bargain, but the owner may pay them down the line with maintenance headaches and costly replacements and overhauls.

An experienced aquarium designer will be able to source the best materials from reputable sources the best materials from reputable sources, form glass as well as wood fixtures to filters, lights and timers.

Set up and maintenance on large tanks and multifaceted systems can be a major chore. Beyond system installation, a professional Florida Keys aquarium design specialist will ensure that the new aquarium is set up, stocked and stabilized to create a healthy functioning environment.

#Florida Keys aquarium design

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chiseler · 4 years

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When Nature Was Golden

Let’s open with a few passages of deathless prose from the classics.

EMORY’S SOFT-SHELLED TURTLE (18 in.; to 35 lb.) is the only Southwest member of an edible group with long necks and short tempers. Handle with care.

BELTED KINGFISHER Where there are fish there are Kingfishers, beating the air in irregular flight, diving into water with a splash and emerging with fish in their beaks.

THE EASTERN MOLE or common mole makes the mounds that dot your lawn. You are unlikely to see any moles, for they stay underground unless molested.

You saw them in the basement of your third-grade best friend, or in your school library. If you were lucky, you had one or two at home—your older sister read them first, years ago; maybe they’d even belonged to one of your parents. Paperback books just a bit smaller than pulp fiction novels, though equally thick, their illustrated pages of a glossier, higher quality. The typeface was Futura, that design marvel of yore, also seen in the old Hall of Dinosaurs in the American Museum of Natural History. Insects, Seashores, Mammals, Reptiles and Amphibians—which did you have? The Golden Guides gave us our natural world in all its glory, and managed to do it in a singular style, dry yet affectionate, concisely informative and never, ever dumbed-down. They were written for children, but each, too, is a cracking read for any adult eager to learn. Or to remember.

Naturalist Herbert S. Zim, who founded this series of guides and wrote many of them, was born in New York in 1909. Raised there and in Southern California, he finished his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D at Columbia University. He was then a science teacher for twenty-five years—at Ethical Culture schools in New York City, and later at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. One wonders where on earth he found the time to crank out so many books. Each was a loving collaboration with other educators, not solely Zim’s effort. But the synthesis of these people, the meticulous research required to bring together all the info, was his responsibility, from 1949 until the early 1970s. Zim, in 1969, was also the editor of an 18-volume set of encyclopedias named Our Wonderful World.

Of the 84 Golden Guides, Zim wrote or co-wrote 24. Is it confirmation bias that makes me believe those are the best of the bunch? The simple style is charming, with phrases like Rock Ground Squirrels, found in the Southwest, are our largest terrestrial squirrels. What grace: with a hint of pride to be from the United States, he said that the squirrels are ours. (I also appreciate that he uses the word “unique” correctly, without qualifiers. The Barn Owl is unique, not “totally” or “somewhat” unique.) The occasional anachronism amuses. Once in awhile Zim tells us which kind of turtle or ground squirrel makes a good pet, if captured.

You have been seeing birds as far back as you can remember and you will continue seeing them wherever you may be. It’s a real pleasure to see them. You can see more birds and more kinds of birds by learning how to look. This book will help you. It is not written for the expert, but for people who want to see birds just for the joy of it.

First become familiar with the mammals pictured and described. Look through the Key to Mammals on the next pages so that you can recognize the major mammal groups. Try to see the mammal well enough to decide, for example, whether it is a rodent or a shrew.

Familiarity with fishes gained by thumbing through pages at odd moments may enable you to make rough identifications at sight. Use this book as an “arm-chair” guide, but also take it into the field with you, for that is where it can be used best. On fishing trips take it along in a plastic bag.

Originally named the Golden Nature Guides, the series name was shortened to “Golden Guides” when they began branching out into other topics—for example, Guns, Sports Cars, and Casino Games. But these adult subjects did not make it into most family rooms, and the more popular guides about flora and fauna, insects, weather, stars, and the like are the ones most frequently found today. The illustrations by James Gordon Irving and others are remarkably detailed, the beauty of pure accuracy from a time when nature photography was rare.

A particularly enchanting feature of the Guides is the family tree, usually a two-page spread of swooping, color-gradated branches, each limb ending in a small picture of an animal in its biological order, labeled something like “Cutlass Fishes” or “Scorpion-Flies.” No less an artist than Matt Groening would eventually parody this format for his Life In Hell comic, describing the evolution of record-store clerks from sullen teens.

Herbert Zim, in his long career as an educator, was the one who brought lab instruction into science courses at the elementary-school level. Anyone who looked through a microscope before they reached ninth grade might have him to thank. And one attribute of Golden Guides is the way they expect one to get involved, not just in the field, but with “amateur activities” like building a birdhouse or preserving animal tracks in plaster. Through such deep engagement, the reader is encouraged not just to appreciate nature, but to discover new things about it, making new contributions to science.

He demanded no less of himself. Going through what biographical information there is on Zim, which is all very straightforward, one notices the list of scientific associations he belonged to, numbering more than twenty. They included the Audubon Society, the Union of Concerned Scientists, the Everglades Natural History Association, and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. Truly, this was a vigorous and busy man.

Like so many cultural products of their time, the Golden Guides can look antithetical to today’s progressive values. Just ask the Yuman Indian woman who sits weaving cotton, bare-breasted, in one of the pictures in a guide to the American Southwest. In little vignettes we see depicted dozens of trappers, fishermen, tourists, birdwatchers—all white, mostly male. Under the entry for “Other Suckers,” Zim claims “some are so easily caught that every boy knows them.” If the Guides were written just for boys, this is a great shame, though their ubiquity meant that many girls of all different backgrounds would find them. The scientific language is devoid of prejudice, by its nature, and is there for any young person dedicated enough to study it. It prizes the natural world above all. One passage recently took me by surprise for its passion, on a page about the fishing industry: If you are interested in fishes, conservation—the wise use of all our natural resources—is your problem too.

Maybe it’s our current predicament that makes one particularly fond of the outside world, and of non-humans. Back in March, I started watching a live online feed from The Aquarium of the Pacific each night, comforted by the variety of fish, sharks, and rays that swam peacefully by. Curious about a small fish with long, showy gold fins, I consulted Fishes to identify it, and Irving didn’t disappoint. Meanwhile, Herbert Zim informed me that the species, named Lookdown, belong to the mackerel-like family of “jacks” and are fine eating.

In 1934, Zim married the Russian-born Sonia (Sonnie) Bleeker, who had studied anthropology at Columbia. The couple had two sons. Bleeker, too, worked in the book world—as an editor at Simon and Schuster, then as a full-time children’s book author. They eventually moved to Florida. Just like the descriptions in the guides, these biographical facts fall well short of being dull. They force me to imagine how energetic, how full life must have been in the Zim household as the kids grew up; and how many subtropical species kept Herbert company in his later years. After Bleeker’s death, he married Grace K. Showe in 1978. He died at Plantation Key in 1994, of complications from Alzheimer’s.

LIVE OAK has become a symbol of the South. The low, spreading tree, often covered with Spanish moss, marks old plantations and roadside plantings. The elliptical, blunt-tipped, leathery leaves are evergreen—that is, they remain green and on the tree throughout the year. The acorns are small but edible; wood is used for furniture. Two other southeastern Oaks (Laurel and Willow) have leaves of somewhat similar shape, but they are thinner and more pointed than Live Oak. Several western Oaks are evergreen. Botanists apply the unqualified name Live Oak only to this species. Height 40 to 60 ft. Beech family

In a Manhattan backyard in the middle of June, a couple of mourning doves fly between the trees. I’m aware that the gentle woop-woop-woop sound they make is not their voices but their wingbeats. The dogwood’s cream-yellow blooms have begun to fade, as is proper at this time. Above me a juvenile blue jay, still fluffy, shrieks out his typical noisy cry. I’m intrigued to see a red speck moving among the hairs on my arm—it’s a clover mite, an insect I haven’t noticed in decades. As recently as 1982, I was a four-year-old marveling at the rolling movement of clover mites on a windowsill—smaller than pin heads, bright candy-apple red. Somewhere along the line they stopped showing up, at least with the frequency they did back then. Now, seeing even one evinces a swell of emotion. (Incidentally, the same is true of another brightly-colored beauty, the red eft, which used to be so numerous in summer that we had to tiptoe on New York State gravel roads to avoid stepping on them.)

We learn more from Zim’s texts than he bargained for. His Golden Guides speak of a midcentury United States where all these animals and plants were still commonly seen. Just based upon my memories from the past 20 or 30 years, there seem to be fewer animals everywhere; in the 1950s, then, was the Earth just teeming with them, in every corner of every suburban lawn? Having learned that the biomass of insects, in particular, has started to fall fast, I yearn for the spectacle of clover mites and hastily do a search for them. Yes, the internet reassures me: we in New York City still have lots of the red bugs, enough to warrant a FAQ page from a pest-control company. They’re harmless to humans, pets, houses, and furniture. They munch grass and reproduce parthenogenically, which means every individual can lay viable eggs, without mating.

Of course, the sites telling me this haven’t worded their data quite as eloquently as Herbert Zim would have. Still, I thank him for the spark of curiosity that got me there at all. He taught me not just how to identify a clover mite, but how to care about her.

by Amanda Nazario

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