Rediscover Virginia

Miamians who think everything past the toll booth is Key Biscayne could go their whole lives without realizing there are two islands, the first being Virginia Key, which happens to be one of the most interesting -- and overlooked -- places in South Florida. This was the “Negro” beach before desegregation. Edward Albee got busted here for nude sunbathing. Jimmy the Shrimper is located here, as is the Seaquarium. Raccoons once took over the island. Ten years ago, the City of Miami sought to develop it as a tourist camping attraction. V.K. is on the National Register of Historic Places. And so on. The other island gets some attention all day today with a beach cleanup (beginning at 9:30 a.m.) and a celebration of a restored "mini train" (beginning at noon). Food, prizes, a domino tournament, dancing, junkanoos, steel drum bands, a community mural, and plenty of other fun stuff will be included. This is a perfect opportunity to learn about its colorful history and help clean the place up a bit. Take the Rickenbacker Causeway to the entrance, which will be to your left, next to the MAST Academy. Call 305-798-8371, and visit www.virginiakeybeachpark.net.
Sat., Aug. 19, 9:30 a.m.