Key West Police Lt. James Daniels recently received an Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award, presented in Miami by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida. He is the first Key West Police Officer to receive the award.
Daniels was recognized for providing support personnel and ensuring the secrecy of "Operation Conch Supply," a six-month multi-agency federal drug investigation, U.S. Attorney Thomas Scott said. The investigation culminated in July 1998 with the arrests and later successful prosecution of seven local suspects. The operation broke up two cocaine smuggling rings that distributed about 20 kilograms each month throughout South Florida, Tampa, and Mobile, Alabama. All were convicted of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute.
The first Sunday of each month is always Locals Day at the Key West Aquarium. If you live in Monroe County, show proof of residency and get in free this Sunday, Feb. 6.
Today Key West Aquarium is home to over 100 species of birds, fish and reptiles. Visitors will enjoy narrated tours, shark and turtle feedings throughout the day and petting a live shark. Tours are 11, 1, 3 and 4:30 and the Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Aquarium is located in the heart of Old Town Key West at Mallory Square.
Locals can also visit the new Flagler Station Oversea Railroad Historeum through Monday, Feb. 7.
Flagler Station, at 901 Caroline Street, is located on the original site of the Margaret Street railway spur at the entrance to the Key West Historic Seaport. Flagler Station is open daily from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
In 1905, Henry Flagler, one of the wealthiest men in the world, announced his plan to build a railroad from Miami to Key West. Some laughed, some scoffed and most agreed that it could not be done. Eight years, three hurricanes, $30 million and over 700 lives later, Henry Flagler proved them wrong.