Bill Baggs Birthday Bash & Award Announcement

Bill Baggs’s belief in journalism as a force for civic change gives an evening beside the Cape Florida Lighthouse its central theme. Presented by Friends of Cape Florida, the Bill Baggs Birthday Bash takes place Wednesday, September 30 at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne. The gathering honors the newspaper editor’s legacy with the announcement of the Bill Baggs Fearless Journalism Award and a discussion of journalism’s role in democracy.

Editor of the Miami News from 1957 until his death in 1969, Baggs used his position to advocate for civil rights, environmental protection and public education. Biographer Amy Paige Condon will give an address and sign copies of A Nervous Man Shouldn’t Be Here in the First Place: The Life of Bill Baggs. The program also includes introductions by his son, Craig Baggs, and remarks from representatives of local foundations, Press Forward and Friends of Cape Florida.

Visitors can take an in-person or virtual lighthouse tour, view a documentary about Baggs and see a HoloPod presentation using holographic technology to explore his life and work. Music, light bites, refreshments and a gin martini bar accompany the evening, with the keeper’s cottage, museum and gift shop open for visits.

Tickets are required for all attendees, including members and volunteers. Event admission is free for Friends of Cape Florida members, with a suggested $25 donation for nonmembers. The park entry fee applies unless covered by a Florida State Parks annual pass. The event takes place rain or shine.