2009 Key Biscayne Historical Lecture Series

KEY BISCAYNE, Fla. — The Key Biscayne Historical & Heritage Society and the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science have teamed up to present two lectures for the residents of Key Biscayne.  The lectures will take place on Monday, April 20 and Monday, May 4, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Village Council Chamber, 560 Crandon Boulevard on Key Biscayne.  Each event is free and open to the public, and will be followed by a reception.  However seating is limited, so residents are asked to RSVP to Carla Lovinsky at (305) 421-4061 or c.bannister@miami.edu.

Monday, April 20, 2009
“Flashback: Today’s Economy vs. the Great Depression”
Economist Dr. David Letson

Economist and Key Biscayne resident, Dr. David Letson will share his perspectives on today’s economic situation, and compare it to previous downturns in the United States. Letson will then address how today’s rising unemployment rate and falling incomes change the ways in which we use and protect natural resources. "Protection" from, say, hurricanes or a changing climate will require us to forgo or at least defer a payday. What’s at stake? Minerals, land, water, forests, soils, fish, climate, corals and toxins, to name just a few.

Monday, May 4, 2009
“Dive Into the Past: Little Salt Spring Archaeological Site”
Archaeologist Dr. John Gifford

Little Salt Spring, a unique underwater archaeological site in southern Sarasota County has revealed artifacts dating back to the first Floridians over 12,000 years ago.  Donated to the University of Miami in 1982, Little Salt Spring is a 240-foot deep, hourglass-shaped anoxic sinkhole with water conditions that allow for amazing preservation of fossil bones as well as artifacts buried within its sediments. Gifford will share discoveries from the site, including evidence of early humans and extinct creatures including giant sloths and tortoises, huge crocodiles, Columbian mammoths, and even saber-tooth tigers.

About the Key Biscayne Historical & Heritage Society (KBHHS)
The KBHHS was started in 2007 by founders Bob Bristol, Ed Meyer, and Dr. Bob Maggs. The purpose of the organization is to collect, preserve, store and exhibit artifacts, documents and information of historical significance to the Village of Key Biscayne, Florida, and its environs. The KBHHS will provide for and promote the dissemination of information pertaining to local history and present educational and interpretive programs, projects and exhibits.

About the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School
Founded in the 1940’s, the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science has grown into one of the world’s premier marine and atmospheric research institutions. Offering dynamic interdisciplinary academics, the Rosenstiel School is dedicated to helping communities to better understand the planet, participating in the establishment of environmental policies, and aiding in the improvement of society and quality of life.  For more information, please visit www.rsmas.miami.edu

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