Athlete Ends 5,400-Mile Run from Alaska at Key West’s Southernmost Point

A 31-year-old athlete jogged up to Key West’s Southernmost Point marker just before 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5, successfully concluding a nearly unbelievable feat: an almost 5,400-mile cross-continental run that began in Alaska. Pete Kostelnick, an ultramarathon runner who lives near Cleveland, began his incredible journey July 31 at Anchor Point on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula — the westernmost end of the North American highway system.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-11-06T22:37:20-05:00November 6, 2018|

Spotlight: The Colorful Life of Renowned Drag Queen “Sushi”

One of Key West’s most talented residents is Gary Marion (aka “Sushi”), who entertains nightly on the second floor of the popular LGBTQ hangout 801 Bourbon Bar with the “Sushi and the 801 Girls” show. Over the years, Sushi has become a drag icon who's known worldwide for her “Red Shoe Drop” appearances on CNN’s annual New Year’s Eve television program.

By Greg Tromba|2018-11-07T04:08:42-05:00November 6, 2018|

Haunted Hunt and ‘Haunting’ Atmosphere Draw Visitors to Key West

According to paranormal expert David Sloan, Key West is one of the most haunted cities in the entire United States. Visitors can discovery the island's “haunting” appeal for themselves by experiencing David's "ghost hunt" walking tour, taking an eerie excursion by trolley, "meeting" a supposedly supernatural doll or even staying in a lovely inn with a spirit guest or two.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:57:57-04:00October 31, 2018|

Five Preserves Protect the Florida Keys’ Natural World

For more than 100 years, the Florida Keys’ fascinating environment has been recognized and protected by forward-thinking conservation efforts. Connect with this natural world by learning about five vital preserves that protect endangered plants, animals and marine life — as well as the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:57:54-04:00October 24, 2018|

Spotlight: Police Chief Donie Lee ‘On The Beat’ In Key West

Donie Lee, Key West's chief of police, is a widely admired officer and the island city's first openly gay police chief. As one of the unique community's many LGBTQ city officials and guiding spirits, this fifth-generation Key West resident plays an integral role in helping protect the place called paradise.

By Greg Tromba|2018-10-24T19:35:27-04:00October 24, 2018|

Insider Tips for Fantasy Fest’s Frolics

Key West's exotic Fantasy Fest is internationally recognized for its elaborate costume competitions, street fairs, masquerade balls and lavish grand parade. Fantasy Fest 2018 takes place Oct. 19-28 — and it’s an unprecedented display of Key West’s creativity, individuality and flamboyant spirit. The 10-day gala offers revelers a world-class chance to leave the "real world" behind and immerse themselves in fantasy.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-10-17T20:03:31-04:00October 17, 2018|

An Officer and a Bar Owner: Cycling the Keys

Key Largo Bike and Adventure Tours offers a diverse menu of cycling treks, including a Key Largo to Key West ride, for people of varying fitness levels. Founded about seven years ago, the company specializes in popular excursions such as the Two-Day Tour to Key West, two 100-mile challenges called the Florida Keys and Hemingway Century rides, an Islamorada Bike Tour, the Bike and Beer Tour, and Taste of the Keys.

By Laura Myers|2018-10-10T18:57:14-04:00October 10, 2018|

Spotlight: Daniel Skahen Values Community Openness

Daniel Skahen is the executive director of the renowned Key West Business Guild and a longtime resident of Key West. He also fought successfully for the legalization of gay adoption in Florida. In his “free time,” he can be spotted welcoming travelers at the guild’s LGBTQ Visitor Center at 808 Duval St. So what does Daniel like best about living in Key West?

By Greg Tromba|2018-10-10T21:52:43-04:00October 10, 2018|

Costuming the Cat … and Other ‘Tails’ From Pet Masquerade

All over the Florida Keys, people are constructing costumes for their cats, dogs, parrots, potbellied pigs, rabbits and other domestic species. What’s behind this strange phenomenon? A wacky annual costume competition for critters, known as the Pet Masquerade, that’s a highlight of Key West’s 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration each October.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-03-16T13:16:42-04:00October 3, 2018|

Make Plans NOW for Fantasy Fest’s Masquerade March

Thousands of costumed revelers will promenade through Key West's historic Old Town Oct. 26 during the offbeat Masquerade March, a highlight of the annual Fantasy Fest costuming and masking festival. Famed as “the locals’ parade,” the march typically draws spirited bands and merrymakers wearing everything from lavish feathered and sequined creations to quirky ensembles inspired by the festival theme.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-09-25T19:55:13-04:00September 25, 2018|