I just returned from Palm Springs and a sojourn representing the Florida Keys at the national convention of NLGJA, the association of LGBTQ journalists. The event had nearly 450 journalists and media professionals in attendance from the U.S. and Canada, and it’s always a pleasure to mingle and enjoy the camaraderie of others working in “the industry.”
The Florida Keys’ turquoise water and seemingly endless vistas starred in an NLGJA convention ad featuring the amazing Overseas Highway.
Each year there are usually some hot topics that dominate most conversations among attendees. This year, the weather took center stage with the most talked-about topic being, “OMG it’s really hot outside, even if it is a dry heat!”
With the mercury hitting 115 degrees (and the 90s in the shade), we were probably the only conventioneers ever that didn’t peer outside and envy the tourists at the hotel pool.
I did, however, venture out at one point to survey the grounds of the resort (and possibly do some people watching). Then after a few minutes, I said to myself, “So this is what it feels like to be inside the world’s largest toaster!” and swiftly retreated to the heavenly chill of the hotel’s A.C.
That’s why, when fellow attendees asked me what it was like living in Key West, I just grinned and said, “It’s a lot cooler than here, that’s for sure.”
Don’t get me wrong — I did relish my four days at the NLGJA conference. However, after four days in the desert, I was very anxious to return to the balmy and sometimes slightly moist climate of the Florida Keys. (One of my worst fears was that I would return to Key West as one very large piece of burnt toast.)
Blog author Greg Tromba shares his insights into the Florida Keys & Key West with NLGJA attendees.
As my plane landed at the Key West Airport, I did a little happy dance in my seat — and if I’d had some ruby slippers, I probably would have clicked them as well. When I exited the aircraft a warm subtropical breeze welcomed me, reminding me that there is truly no place like home.
Please come down and experience our gorgeous weather as we celebrate the fall season with some exciting upcoming events here on the island.
On Oct. 19-20 we have our two-day Goombay Festival celebrating Key West’s Bahamian heritage with Caribbean-style foods served by vendors, island-influenced arts and crafts, live music, a Junkanoo parade and so much more.
Then Oct. 25 get ready to be dazzled by Key West’s 36th annual Headdress Ball, with contestants’ flamboyant masks and outrageous headdress regalia.
The evening soirée will take place at the Key West Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park. To get your tickets (and do it now, because the event always sells out), just click here.
Both events are highlights of Fantasy Fest, our legendary costuming and masking celebration that runs Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28. Filled with energy and outrageousness, it’s an extravaganza that should be on EVERYBODY’S bucket list.
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