Yesterday morning, while awaiting a flight from Miami to Key West, I noticed a lot of people in the boarding lounge with guitar cases and those containing other instruments. It then dawned on me that this weekend is the annual Key West Songwriter’s Festival.

The Key West Songwriter's Festival brings scores of hit songwriters to perform in intimate Key West settings each year. (Photo courtesy of the Key West Songwriter's Festival)

Now in its 17th year, this is largest festival of its kind in the world. Since 1997, music giant BMI has been a major sponsor, along with assistance from the Florida Keys tourism council.

This five-day festival features some two dozen shows staged across the island. More than 100 top songwriters will entertain at venues from local watering holes to oceanfront resorts — capped by a free concert in the 200 block of Duval Street.

There’s still time to drive down the Overseas Highway this week and join in the festival. And put the event on your getaway schedule for 2013, because it gets better each year!

Have you ever thought of trading houses with total strangers for a vacation? I have friends who have done this several times and had great experiences.

What if a simple exchange of homes led to the discovery of a murder plot? That's the question behind a new play at the Waterfront Playhouse this month.

But what if you exchanged your house and, when you settled into your new digs, you began to fear you’d discovered a murder plot? What would you do???

That’s the premise of “Home Exchange,” a world-premiere production now running at Key West’s Waterfront Playhouse. Enjoy an evening at this suspenseful comedy written by Hy Conrad, writer for the Emmy-winning TV series “Monk” and “White Collar.”

If you’re a paddleboard enthusiast, come to Key West for the annual 12-mile elite race around the island held on May 12. (Those who find 12 miles a bit daunting can join in a 4-mile open race.)  Where else in the world can you paddle past historic Civil War forts and stately hotels and homes, and cross from the Gulf of Mexico into the Atlantic Ocean? This diverse sea-to-sea adventure is open to all paddlers.

After you rest up from the race, take in the newest musical at the Red Barn Theatre. “Finito: the Dream is Real” combines comedy, variety and burlesque into an uproarious night of song and dance. The acclaimed Key West Burlesque troupe will entertain you during this short 12-night run.

Blog author Steve Smith gets ready for a jam-packed month of events in Key West.

If you haven’t been to the Red Barn Theatre, it actually is a red barn with only 65 or so seats — so intimate that you almost feel like you’re on stage during the performances!

When I first went to the Barn, there was no air-conditioning. Now it‘s climate controlled, with outstanding lighting and libations available both before the show and during the intermission. Treat yourself to a memorable evening at this tiny theater!

Finally, Key West Pride is rapidly approaching on the island (check our fun commercial airing all over Florida!). Make your plans to be a part of the annual Pride event that sweeps across town starting June 6.  Emmy-winning actor Leslie Jordan will be here with his new one-man show, and you’ll have the chance to meet Erin Davies with her inspiring “Fagbug.”

A victim of a hate crime for sporting a rainbow sticker on her VW Beetle, Erin embraced what happened and left the graffiti on her car. She then took her “Bug” on a 58-day trip around the United States and Canada. Her documentary will screen during Key West Pride, followed by a question-and-answer session.

More on Key West Pride next time!

Topics: Arts, Events, Festivals, Key West, LGBT

When I moved to Key West 25 years ago, the summers were a quiet time when we did our renovations, took our vacations, and invited our families to visit. However, these days summer — which, believe it or not, is just around the corner — doesn’t bring a “slow season” at all.

A wacky race of decorated beds is part of the Conch Republic celebrations each spring. (Photo by Rob O'Neal, Florida Keys News Bureau)

Instead, there are special events all summer long. We still take a holiday or two and have company, but we save plenty of time to enjoy the fun things our island city offers.

For example, this coming weekend begins the 30th annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration. If you plan to visit between April 20 and April 29, be sure to review the schedule of events and take part in our over-the-top celebration of the Florida Keys’ independent, irreverent nature.

And did you know Key West has its own version of American Idol? It’s called Aqua Idol, and its current “season” benefits the Key West Business Guild. Every Tuesday we gather at the landmark Aqua from 6:30 to 8 p.m. as talented local singers battle it out on the stage.

Currently six people remain in the competition, and there are three more weeks of fun before the winner is announced. Stop in and see some fine local singing talent, throw a buck or two in the tip buckets, and support your favorite star or star-to-be!

Key West's Pride celebrations are a highlight of the island's summer season. (Photo courtesy of the Key West Business Guild)

Recently travel writer Troy Petenbrink gave a shout-out to Key West’s summer events and to our fun new summer video. “Key West is Contagious” screamed the headline of Washington DC’s MetroWeekly column “Elsewhere —Travel with a Twist.”

Check it out — you may see some friends, or even your own picture, in this short piece. Troy’s article also contains web links to Key West Pride, Tropical Heat, and Womenfest that will be useful when you plan your next visit.

Speaking of the Key West Business Guild, the organization is approaching its 35th year. From its inception, the guild’s mission was to promote Key West and its gay and allied businesses. Many local events were started by the guild and then passed to other non-profit organizations to operate and benefit from. These days, the guild produces Key West Pride, Tropical Heat, Womenfest and — for 30 years — the Fantasy Fest Headdress Ball, which will be held this year on Tuesday, Oct. 23.

On Key West's gay trolley tour, passengers learn about the island city's LGBT sites, history and highlights.

Recently I worked with the American Airlines public relations department and a film crew as they shot video for Key West’s Milestone video. Milestone videos are available on the AA.com website and are promoted to more than 60 million members of the Aadvantage frequent flyer program.

The Key West video showcases some favorite things to do on the island and in the other Florida Keys. Watching it encourages viewers to take a tour of writer Ernest Hemingway’s home, travel on the gay trolley tour past Pulitzer Prize winner Tennessee Williams’ home, experience deep-sea fishing offshore, visit historic Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, and meet some friendly dolphins at Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key.

So if you find yourself craving a Keys or Key West vacation this summer, don’t try to resist. Simply surrender, make your travel plans, and look for me when you get here.

Topics: Events, Festivals, Highlights, Key West, LGBT, Marathon

The Easter season is upon us (where does the time go?) and Key West is decked out accordingly. Between my travels promoting the Florida Keys, I try to stop in at the Easter parties up and down the streets and enjoy the special “Easter Bonnet” brunch on Easter Sunday at La Te Da.

The confections at Key West Cakes are almost too pretty to eat! (Photo by Steve Smith)

Then I like to stop in at Key West Cakes, a local favorite on White Street, to sample their signature cupcakes decorated to please both the kids and the grownups. Owners Paul and Steven serve up specialty cakes, tarts, cookies, and the best “chicken pot pie” ever. They feature a wide variety of flavors and even offer tastings of their goods. If you’re visiting for a birthday, anniversary or honeymoon, explore their website and order an unforgettable confectionery.

If you’re in Key West between April 20 and 29, be sure to check out the schedule of events for our 30th annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration. Planned highlights include a Drag Race, a Bed Race, a pet stroll, the “World’s Longest Parade” that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, and a sea battle starring beautiful tall ships.

In the middle of this fun, April 23 brings the 17th annual Taste of Key West benefiting AIDS Help, our community-based AIDS service organization. Attendees can sample delicacies from more than 50 restaurants, plus over 100 wines, at the historic Truman Waterfront — and stroll among hundreds of locals and visitors as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Key West's beloved Q Mitch debuts his Easter outfit -- and we're pretty sure you won't see another one like it anytime soon!

Featured eateries include the Stoned Crab at Ibis Bay Resort, where boats unload their fresh catch just 14 feet from the kitchen; the Island House Café, where food is prepared by the resort’s handsome staff; Shanna Key Irish Pub, and Drew and Michael’s acclaimed AZUR Restaurant. Best of all, you’ll be able to pick your favorites to visit during your stay in Key West.

After the Taste, catch “Short Attention Span Theatre” at the Red Barn and enjoy a mix of fresh 10-minute plays. Back by popular demand, this grouping will have you laughing, crying, and wishing the evening would never end.

Getting back to my travels, I recently attended the annual ITB Travel Trade Show.

Each year, this weeklong event brings more than 172,000 visitors to network with more than 10,600 exhibitors from 180 countries.

During this year’s event, I participated on a gay travel panel discussing how gay and lesbian tourism has become a driver of structural change in destinations. A group of over 200 travel professionals and media representatives attended the presentation, which included this enticing video showcasing Key West.

Blog author Steve (right) and his partner Paul enjoy some free time during a previous IGLTA convention.

This week I will join the board of directors and other members of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association for their annual convention being held in Florianopolis, Brazil. I’ve served for many years on the board of directors, and am both past president and treasurer of this growing travel organization.

From its humble beginnings in Key West in 1983 with about 25 members, the association now has more than 2,200 members from 85 countries. Look for its new consumer website coming in mid-April.

And finally, look for me April 15 at Miami Beach Pride, beachside on Ocean Drive in South Beach. We’ll share some Keys magic with you under our tent!

Topics: Arts, Events, Festivals, Food, LGBT

Walking down Key West’s Duval Street these days, you can hear visitors speaking French, German, Portuguese, Dutch, Scandinavian, Chinese, Japanese and even English flavored with that recognizable British accent.

Blog author Steve Smith (right) and Dean Nelson raise the rainbow flag at the Gate of the Sun atop Peru's Machu Picchu.

The island is alive with vacationers from across the world.

LGBT visitors have been welcomed and assisted by the Key West Business Guild for more than 35 years. They can pick up passes and get discounts at local businesses by stopping by the Gay and Lesbian Visitor Center at 513 Truman Ave. Open seven days a week, the center has staff that can answer virtually any question imaginable, provide maps and impart information about accommodations, attractions, restaurants, art galleries and the ever-popular nightlife.

As you might expect during such a lively time, our theaters are offering a variety of shows to entertain and amuse audiences. The Waterfront Playhouse at Mallory Square is staging “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” nominated for eight Tony Awards including Best Musical.

Don't miss hilarious Keys actor Tom Luna in the Red Barn Theatre's "Match."

Watching the production, you’ll become part of a group of prepubescent overachievers pitted against each other in a spelling challenge. (In fact, the New York Times called the play “in essence ‘A Chorus Line’ with pimples.”

A few blocks away, in the 300 block of Duval Street, catch the Red Barn Theatre’s production of “Match” — starring Key West’s talented, incomparable and always hysterical Tom Luna portraying an eccentric and endearing dancer, choreographer and teacher. (Bring tissues, because you’ll laugh till your eyes run with tears of joy.)

We will soon be celebrating the 30th birthday of our beloved Conch Republic with a rollicking festival. Almost 30 years ago, the U.S. Border patrol erected a surprise roadblock at the top of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, ostensibly searching for aliens and illegal drugs. The barrier created a 10-mile-long traffic jam and delays for visitors (and us residents) leaving the Keys.

Spirited Key Westers were not afraid to stand up to “a government gone mad with power.” They protested by forming a new “independent nation” named the Conch Republic, seceding from and then declaring war on the United States, promptly surrendering and applying for millions in foreign aid. News of the offbeat revolt was heard around the world and shortly afterward the roadblock faded away.

In Key West's zany drag race, some lively lovelies wear sporting attire with their heels -- a smart choice given the course's peculiar challenges. (Photo by Mike Hollar, Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Conch Republic Independence Celebration begins April 20 with the Raising of the Colors at Fort Zachary Taylor (we lovingly refer to it as Fort Elizabeth Taylor) and a fun-filled kickoff party at the Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport.

The gay community presents its biggest festival event the following day, rocking the streets with the “Great Conch Republic Drag Race.” Benefiting a local charity, it’s hosted by our Bourbon Street entertainment complex and takes place in the 700 and 800 blocks of Duval Street.

I’m sure you’ve seen drag queens before, but you haven’t seen anything like these races. The “pits” open at 1 p.m., and the wacky footrace follows — with competitors required to wear their highest heels! Bring your camera, because your friends won’t believe your stories about this kewl event without photographic evidence.

I hope to see you there!

Topics: Arts, Festivals, History, Key West, LGBT

A big question I get from potential visitors is, “How do you get to Key West?” When I moved to the island, our airport sporting the famous airport code EYW had occasional air-conditioning, a few ceiling fans that turned, and a big hole in the wall through which our luggage was tossed. DC3 aircraft served the island from a couple of cities, along with an occasional Air Florida jet.

This engaging panorama by local artist Rick Worth graces the exterior of Key West International Airport.

Some people don’t realize that we now have a new modern airport with great airline choices. The terminal even showcases local artists’ work through our Art in Public Places program — and its exterior features a wonderful Key West mural painted by local artist Rick Worth.

EYW is now served by more connecting flights, from a larger variety of cities, than ever before. Don’t worry about flying those “puddle jumpers” (even though they’re really fun) as we have fewer of them than ever!

American Airlines’ loyal customers can connect through the newly renovated Miami International Airport (MIA) gate D60.  When I began flying AA, they brought box-like Shorts 360 aircraft to EYW. These funny-looking flying boxes gave you a shower from the air-conditioning if you sat in the front rows, and a roller-coaster ride in the back.

Beginning this summer AA, which has served EYW for years with a variety of aircraft, will be flying regional jet planes for the 25-minute ride.

Delta serves us out of Atlanta (ATL) with several daily regional jet flights and a daily big 737 with a first-class cabin for those who like to ride up front.

Visitors can either fly into Key West or drive the unique and scenic Overseas Highway. (Photo by Andy Newman, Florida Keys News Bureau)

AirTran has now officially become Southwest. Though their booking websites have not completely merged, you can book a daily round-trip to the island from either Tampa International (TPA) or Orlando International (MCO). And flight frequency may increase, since Southwest normally operates several daily flights on its routes.

United and Continental are merging as well, and offer flights to EYW from both Tampa and Fort Lauderdale International (FLL). Their Beachcraft 19-seaters are soon to be gone, replaced by larger 29-seat Saab SF340 turbo-props.

Favorite New England-based Cape Air brings five flights per day from Fort Myers International (RSW) to EYW. Traveling in Cape Air’s signature nine-passenger Cessna 402s, passengers can connect through RSW from Jet Blue, American Airlines, and most other carriers with their through-baggage agreements.

Among other highlights of Key West’s new airport is the expanded Conch Flyer Restaurant. Long a favorite watering hole for locals, it still serves one of the best bowls of conch chowder on the island. Chock full of conch, potatoes and fresh carrots, this local-made chowder is even available to take home from the departure café and bar.

The new Flyer still has super burgers, BLT sandwiches, and great tuna salad — plus an outdoor “beach bar” complete with a waterfall and free WiFi.

John Richmond, owner of the Conch Flyer, indicates some aviation memorabilia on display at the popular bar and restaurant. (Photo by Rob O'Neal, Florida Keys News Bureau)

In other words, getting to Key West by air is just getting better than ever!

Of course, if you prefer, you can drive down on the scenic Overseas Highway, an unforgettable road whose 40-some bridges span the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. As well as unparalleled panoramas, this leisurely drive offers the chance to explore the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys.

You can always drive down from South Florida and book your return flight out of EYW … giving you the best of both worlds for your Key West experience.

Topics: History, Key West, LGBT

An early morning walk today with “blog dog” Giulio reminded me why I live on this island. Neighbor Nancy’s jasmine was in full bloom and fragrance, and her giant pencil cactus is reaching the sky.

Key West's vivid blossoms add color and fragrance to island neighborhoods. (Photo by Steve Smith)

Around the corner, the mango trees have sent out their bloom spikes so in days there will be tiny mangoes. Mounds of multicolor impatiens line our yards, and the Schomburgkia orchids are putting out their bloom spikes, which will be topped with golden and off-white flower clusters.

We also know that this time of year brings beautiful snorkeling, sailing, and sunset trips. The water is a bit cooler, calmer, and crystal clear.

Key West’s Fury Water Adventures offers a trip to suit virtually any need and budget. Start the morning with a snorkel trip to the reef. They furnish all equipment — you just need sunscreen and a towel — and after you snorkel, grab some sun on the sundeck.

If you don’t want to get wet, check out their glassbottom boat. It’s air-conditioned with sundecks, a snack bar, and restrooms. If you enjoy live music, then their “Commotion on the Ocean” is up your alley. Watch the sunset while dancing to live music, sipping a margarita or beer, and munching on hors d’oeuvres.

Key West’s Sebago offers the “Island Ting” combining snorkeling, kayaking, sailing and a buffet lunch. If wave-running and “flying” sounds like an exciting day, then consider the “Power Adventure.”

Key West even offers adventures in jetpack-powered flight! (Photo by Rob O'Neal, Florida Keys News Bureau)

We love to fly here in Key West and there are several options.  The Fury and Sebago both offer single and tandem (two flying at one time) parasailing. Another great option is the new Jetpack Adventures. After a brief training session, you strap on the jetpack and soar above the water. It’s like flying with the seagulls and pelicans.

For a more intimate and gay-focused water adventure, try the Blu Q’s day trip for the guys. Captain Steve and his crew will take you out to the backcountry on their catamaran for a day of dolphin watching, kayaking, snorkeling and a great lunch. A waterproof camera is a must so you can share the adventure with your friends back home. Also this trip offers clothing-optional tanning, so you might want sunscreen.

In the evening on the Blu Q, join your friends as you chase the sunset into the Gulf of Mexico. All are welcome on the sunset trip.

The women can enjoy trips with Captain Karen on Venus Charters. Originally a steel worker in Ohio, Captain Karen packed her bags and left the cold for the emerald waters of Key West. Venus Charters is the only women-only snorkel and dolphin-watching trip in the Keys. Captains Karen and her partner Debra take you out for dolphin watching, fishing, and snorkeling — and they’re also well known for commitment ceremonies on the water.

On Key West's gay trolley tour, passengers learn about the island city's LGBT sites, history and highlights.

If frolicking on the water is not your thing, hop aboard the Key West Business Guild’s Gay Trolley, running every Saturday afternoon at 4 p.m. Learn intriguing facts about our colorful history and both the famous and infamous (though we feel there’s not much real infamy here on the island!).

Hosted by guild staffer Matt Hon, the tour will make you laugh, hoot and even holler (check this fun YouTube video of the tour). The trolley departs from the corner of Duval and Angela Streets, across from courtyard restaurant Mangoes.

By the way, for overall LGBT information about our southernmost paradise, visit the Business Guild’s website. You’ll find all the latest on events, lodging, dining, nightlife, attractions and much more.

Topics: Environment, Highlights, LGBT, On the Water

February is bringing great groups of visitors to Key West — and for us locals, that means great energy across the island, lively nightclubs, events almost every week, fabulous live music in the bars, and an opportunity to show off our southernmost home.

Randy Roberts displays mega-talent during performances at Key West's beloved La Te Da.

For example, Pearl’s Patio is featuring Susie Comet, the Joe Tenuto Band and Chief Billy & Bob Paul. Stop in at 525 United St. and join the fun. Pearl’s Key West, a full-service resort just a block from the Atlantic Ocean, was originally a women-only property. Today, while it’s gay oriented, it now welcomes everyone at Pearl’s Patio and during guest hours.

Around the corner is La Te Da, one of our internationally famous meccas. Serving guests and locals for more than 30 years, La Te Da offers the streetside Terrace Bar, the By George Piano Par and the Crystal Bar in the upstairs cabaret.

When you’re enjoying the sounds of Dave Bootle or Debra and Patrick, you’ll want to hit the dance floor. While there you will be watched over by a 1905 tapestry of King George V hanging in a place of honor over the bar. Upstairs in the Cabaret at La Te Da, you’ll enjoy the talents of world-class impersonators during Randy Roberts LIVE and Christopher Peterson’s EYECONS. (Check the calendar so you can plan your evenings around some of the best entertainment on the island.)

Down the street, we will soon be crowning Key West’s Queen of Mardi Gras upstairs at the 801 Cabaret. At 7 p.m. Feb. 16, the pageant will kick off with great performances, gowns, and more fun than you can imagine.

Blog writer Steve Smith really sinks his teeth into Key West's activities and attractions!

Join in the Mardi Gras festivities across the street at the Bourbon St. Pub, our club that brings a taste of New Orleans to the island. After the Feb. 16 kickoff, the fun runs through a Mardi Gras Pub Crawl on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 21. As always, the event benefits a local charity, the Sister Season Fund.

If you’re looking for a slightly quieter spot for a romantic cocktail, stop by the Point5 Cocktail Club upstairs at 915 Duval. There’s a great balcony overlooking the Duval Street action, and you can savor $5 premium beverages and gourmet pizzas every day from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Then enjoy a leisurely evening on the side porch of the dignified Victorian house-turned-restaurant, sharing plates of tapas prepared by an award-winning chef who has served his specialties for the James Beard Foundation.

For another great Key West experience, stroll down Duval Street to tiny Charles Street and the Smokin’ Tuna Saloon. One of our unique restaurant and entertainment facilities, the Tuna serves a variety of fresh seafood, oysters, dinners and starters — while top bands play live music.

The girls of Mama's Black Sheep are headed baaaaa-ck to Shanna Key.

If you feel like crossing the pond (i.e., traversing the Garrison Bight Bridge), check out Shanna Key Irish Pub, Grill, and Sports Bar. Shanna Key is the spot to watch your favorite American and European sports on two big-screen and nine HD televisions.

On Wednesday, Feb. 22, the hot girls’ group Mama’s Black Sheep returns to perform till midnight in celebration of singer Ashland Miller’s birthday. Don’t know who Mama’s Black Sheep is? Take one guitar, a bunch of drums, two amazing voices, a dash of humor, a touch of love, and strong musicianship. Mix and stir, and you have this terrific group.

On a personal note, my husband Paul can often be found at Shanna Key enjoying fish and chips. An expat Brit, he chooses Shanna Key’s fish and chips as his island favorite.

So until next time, have fun, enjoy our watering holes and restaurants, and keep an eye out for me!

Topics: Events, Food, Key West, LGBT, Local Color, Restaurant Picks, Topics

Often I’m asked what there is to do in Key West. That’s a loaded question, because our little island has so many options that it’s difficult to describe — and impossible to do everything.

Ladies in early 1900s attire participate in a recent Key West parade to honor the centennial anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. (Photo by Andy Newman, Florida Keys News Bureau)

For example, visitors to Key West in recent weeks could have experienced a drag queen lowered to the street in a six-foot red stiletto on New Year’s Eve, a seafood festival, the 30th annual Key West Literary Seminar, two parades down Duval Street that included everything from bicycles and antique cars to marching bands and Boy Scouts, a premiere yacht race, the centennial celebration of Henry Flagler’s Over-Sea Railroad, and the Ragnar Relay that brought hundreds of colorful runners for a 199-mile relay race.

Our theatres are constantly producing exceptional shows, from those penned by local authors to Broadway hits. In February, the Waterfront Playhouse is offering “Dead Man’s Cell Phone” and the Red Barn Theatre is staging the Broadway smash hit “God of Carnage.”

One of my favorite February events is Valentine’s Day at the Curry Mansion Inn — a gala now in its 29th year. Caroline Street outside the inn will be closed as several hundred locals and visitors join the festivities to raise funds for the Wesley House, a local organization serving Keys families and children.

Would you let this costumed character preside over your bingo game? Scores of people do each Sunday in Key West.

The event includes the largest silent auction in Key West, food from great local restaurants, fabulous entertainment including our own Howard Livingston and Honey Mouth performing in two areas, free-flowing libations and colorfully dressed attendees.

Last year’s gala raised more than $60,000 for services provided to the children of the Keys. It takes lots of volunteer hours to produce events of this type, but we seem to have an endless supply of hours to share with our community. (If you want to attend, tickets are available at KeysTix.)

A dazzling star of this island is Mitch Jones. Qmitch, as he calls himself on his Facebook page, is a product of Rocky Mount, N.C.  Raised as a “good ole Southern boy” in a quiet Baptist household, he never missed a Sunday church event.

Mitch was a charter member of the American Airlines Executive Platinum desk, where he catered to the needs of the airline’s top 2 percent VIP customers. Luckily for us, he took an early leave and brought his personality, talent, and generosity to the island on the unique date of 06/06/06.

Key West's own Sushi recently found herself a "centerfold" in the pages of Reader's Digest.

In addition to raising funds for many local charities, Mitch took the helm of 801’s Sunday Bingo after Key West’s beloved RV Beaumont left us. Each Sunday, a full house of raucous faithful locals and visitors is greeted by Mitch in a one-of-a-kind outfit. FYI, in addition to the funds bingo raises for charity, Mitch will auction his outfits to benefit the charity.

Stop by some Sunday (before 5 p.m. to insure a space to perch), buy a few bingo cards, and buckle your seatbelt for the bingo your granny never got to experience. But even if you’re not in Key West, you can catch Mitch’s Sunday Bingo live online at World Famous Drag Queen Bingo — or check out a rerun!

On a final note, surprises often come in small packages. This week I was treated to Reader’s Digest Magazine’s “Best of 2011 Rollicking Roundup.”  Spread over two pages was Key West’s own favorite drag queen Sushi on New Year’s Eve, perched in the red stiletto overlooking thousands on Duval Street in front of Bourbon St. Pub. What a treat to see her featured in this global publication!

Topics: Arts, Events, Key West, LGBT, Local Color

We’re halfway through January and the weather here in Key West has been glorious. After a couple of cool days, we’re back into the 70’s — with shorts, T- shirts, and sandals the appropriate winter wear.

Even Key West canines, like "blog dog" Giulio shown here, have been enjoying the warm January weather. (Photo by Steve Smith)

We do dress up a bit. On occasion you’ll see us in jeans, cargo shorts, and shirts with collars — and I recently sported my tux jacket with a nice pair of shorts. When you pack for a visit here, remember that you won’t need dinner jackets, ties, or “spit-shined” shoes.

(And if you see the weather in mainland Florida looking cold, remember that Key West is 156 miles southwest of the mainland and we rarely share the same weather — except for the fabled sunshine!)

Key West is known for great eating, as I wrote in my November blog. One of the great upcoming “foodie” events is the third annual Key West Food and Wine Festival, which starts Thursday, Jan. 26, and runs through Sunday, Jan. 29.

The Key West Food and Wine Festival offers innovative cuisine, fine wines and unique island experiences.

This gastronomic celebration offers creative cuisine, premium wines, and unique events only found on our subtropical island.

Kick off the weekend without your shoes or sandals as you join friends for a beach party like nothing you’ve ever attended before. Then play at the historic Key West Aquarium while you sample fine wines and savor delicacies from land and sea. You might spot mermaids, sharks, turtles or indigenous tarpon as you enjoy entertainment by Fancy Pants Entertainment during the “Turtles and Sharks and Mermaids, OH MY! Grand Tasting.”

Chocoholics will experience true bliss when fine organic chocolates are paired with perfect wines during the “Life is a Glass of Chocolate” event at the Lush Bar located at the Green Pineapple on Duval Street.

On Saturday evening, the island’s renowned Duval Street becomes an appetizing avenue during “Duval Uncorked 2012.” The neighborhood’s finest restaurants will be serving samplings of their signature dishes, while the chic boutiques, funky shops and galleries offer wines and hors d’oeuvres. As you stroll you’ll meet Key West’s many personalities and performance artists, and see stellar spectacles.

Stone crabs are a delectable, and renewable, Florida Keys seafood specialty. (Photo by Bob Care, Florida Keys News Bureau)

Each day, the festival schedule offers many events, venues, tastes, and experiences to choose among. Take the weekend to stroll the neighborhoods from Bahama Village to the Historic Seaport. Other events include cooking contests, food and wine seminars, and outdoor markets.

Tickets and/or festival VIP passes are needed for the events and are available at the Key West Food and Wine Festival website. There you’ll also find information about participating lodging and comments from previous years’ guests.

If you can’t make the Key West festival, the end of January brings the third annual Stone Crab & Seafood Festival in Key Largo.  Set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 28-29, it’s a great family event featuring local seafood, live musical entertainment, cooking demonstrations, and fun for the kids too!  Key Largo is a short trip from mainland Florida down the recently completed 18-Mile Stretch.

So tantalize your palate, and have the time of your life at one or both of these fabulous festivals. After all, there’s nothing more delicious than the flavors of the Florida Keys.

Topics: Festivals, Food, Key Largo, Key West, LGBT, Local Color

You had to be there, and boy am I glad I was. There’s nothing — absolutely nothing — like New Year’s Eve in Key West.

"Keys Voices" author/editor Carol Shaughnessy (in shoe at left) and her friend Maria Newman try Sushi's shoe on for size. (All photos by Andy Newman, Florida Keys News Bureau)

That’s because, each year, the island city’s offbeat populace stages three wonderful warm-weather takeoffs on the fabled New Year’s Eve “ball drop” in New York’s Times Square: the “red shoe drop” featuring elegant drag queen Sushi in a super-sized red high heel, the “drop” of a giant manmade conch shell (the symbol of the Florida Keys) above legendary Sloppy Joe’s Bar, and the descent of a winsome pirate wench from the top of a majestic sailing ship’s mast in the Historic Seaport.

But before that happens each New Year’s Eve, Key West goes to the dogs. Dachshunds, to be precise. And this year, there were 227 of them — all parading down Fleming Street in the tail-wagging, smile-inducing annual Key West Dachshund Walk at noon Dec. 31.

The long-bodied, short-legged participants included miniature and standard dachshunds, many of them costumed or wearing offbeat accessories.

Esme O'Kelly carries her canine Duna, costumed as an iguana, during the Key West Dachshund Walk.

Among the standouts were a pair of dogs dressed as Green Bay Packers cheerleaders, “party animals” in feather boas and top hats, a floppy-eared Elvis impersonator, a “horse” with a cowboy doll rider, and a “newshound” dubbed Woof Blitzer — who wore a functioning video camera and shot dogs-eye footage of the wacky walk.

Key Wester Esme O’Kelly dressed her nine-year-old dachshund Duna as a bright-green iguana with a three-foot-long tail (the costume, Esme confessed, was constructed out of green fishnet stockings!). Duna, who didn’t seem to mind wearing it at all, ambled down the street attracting attention from hundreds of dachshund-loving spectators.

Later on New Year’s Eve, the focus turned from dachshunds to divas — led by the dazzling Sushi and covered live during Anderson Cooper’s New Year’s Eve show on CNN (for the ninth consecutive year, believe it or not!).

Sushi prepares to welcome 2012 during the New Year's Eve "drag queen drop" in Key West.

Thousands of revelers gathered on Key West’s Duval Street outside the Bourbon St. Pub/New Orleans House complex to watch the lavishly costumed Sushi “drop” in her high-heeled chariot.

“About 15 years ago we started a tradition here in Key West of me being lowered in a giant glittery red shoe, at the stroke of midnight, in full drag,” said Sushi, otherwise known as Key West resident Gary Marion.

An incredibly talented seamstress and costume designer, this year she created a vivid tangerine gown for the event. Its Victorian flavor was inspired by the upcoming centennial of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad.

CNN’s stellar John Zarrella, dashingly dressed in a tux despite the balmy weather, provided lighthearted commentary to viewers around the world as drag queens and dancers entertained before the “drop” — enthralling spectators that ranged from couples to seniors and families.

2012 got off to a wonderful start in the fabulous Florida Keys.

“When I was a little kid I never really dreamed about being in drag, let alone being lowered in a giant red heel,” Sushi admitted. “What a way to make a living, though — it’s fabulous.”

Seconds before midnight, the shoe and its passenger were lowered from the complex’s second-story balcony toward the cheering crowd below.

As midnight struck and 2012 officially began, Sushi landed and gleefully popped the cork on a ceremonial bottle of champagne.

Dachshunds, drag queens and lovely 70-degree temperatures even at midnight … what a way to welcome 2012!

And in the often magical Florida Keys, it’s a good bet that the rest of the year will live up to its kickoff.

Topics: Animal Ambassadors, Events, Highlights, Key West, LGBT, Local Color, Quirks, Voices Main Archive