INSIDE

WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com Vol. 3, No. 20 • FREE

INSIDE: Schedule of this year’s Tropical Bartender Heat. of the Week A10-11 X Gage Beaulieu, mixing things up at three spots. A6 X COURTESY PHOTO Aerial view of Fort Jefferson. Explore the Dry Tortugas and Fort Jefferson BY LAURA RICHARDSON TROPICAL Florida Weekly Correspondent Peruse any guidebook that chronicles HEAT: Music the top attractions in the Florida Keys and it’s a guarantee that the Dry Tortu- Michael Festa’s cookin’ up gas and Fort Jefferson will make an ap- HOT something new. A17 X pearance near the top of the list of must- see sites. A mere 68 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, the Dry Tortugas is one of the most spectacular (in my HOT majorly biased opinion) national parks of the 59 that beautify our great nation. So named because Juan Ponce ddee LLeóneón apparently caught 160 sea turtleses ttherehere in 1513, the Dry Tortugas Nationalnal Park technically comprises the sevenven DrDryy Tortugas islands as well as Fortrt JeJeffer-ffer- son, a gargantuan unfinished hexagonalexagonal fortress built of red brick andd largelylargely abandoned (save for the roughlyy 60,000 annual visitors who come to learnrn aaboutbout the fort’s history and snorkel thee vibrant reefs around her perimeter). It isn’tsn’t easeasyy to get out there, but the voyage iiss worth it for both the fascinating (andd some- what macabre) history of the ffortort and the access to one of the best-preservedreserved Top Picks reef ecosystems in the Westernn Hemi- sphere. Great things to do on There are a few ways to get too the the island this week. A9 X Dry Tortugas National Park and its jewel-like chain of islands. Whichich way is right for you depends een-n- tirely on your tolerance for beingng close BY LAURA RICHARDSONRICHARDSON to other people, how long you’re’re will- Florida WeeklyWeekly CorrespondentCorrespond ing to wait to get to your destination,tination, how comfortable you are on choppchoppyy HOT UGUST IN KEY WEST IS HOT. WE KNOW WHAT YOU’RE seas, how interested you are iinn spot- tthinking:hinking: Key West isn’t special — August just ting whales from the sky and howw much aaboutbout evereverywhereyw in the country is hot. Yes, money you deem to be a ridiculousdiculous Death Valley may be setting records for three- sum to pay in order to travel there.ere. The didigitgit temps, bbut Key West’s humidity is positively cheapest of options — other thanan an ex- A bbrutal.rutal. We’rWe’ree talking walking through molasses, hausting swim — is to ride on tthehe Yan- sstoppingtopping at every otheotherr bar just for water (an act so blas- kee Freedom III, a high-speed catama- phemous yyouou know wwee would never commit such a sin un- ran that ferries zinc-nosed visitorsors bbackack Real Estate less moved bbyy duress ooff the direst sort), keep your kids and Five bedrooms, four baths SEE HEAT, A10 X SEE TORTUGAS,AS, A1A122 X at 1309 Villa Mill Alley. A22 X A2 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST OFF OFF DUVAL Editor Owen Killian The most traveled and visible street books.com; 305-294-2904. This [email protected] in Key West is only the beginning, the decades-old boutique bookstore offers a surface, of what the town has to offer. surprisingly varied wealth of current and Publisher Ask the locals about their favorite spots, used titles, from bestsellers to rare titles. Niall Geoghegan stroll through quiet neighborhoods or Often open late, it’s an inviting place to [email protected] down alleyways off Duval and you’ll browse the crowded stacks. begin to dive deeper into the quieter, Reporters more diverse and less readily appar- La Rubia Fine Hats, 510 Fleming Bucky Montgomery ent offerings. Here are eight spots you St. 305-296-6059; www.larubiakey- Laura Richardson might not see at first glance. west.com. This is the Florida Keys’ Jennifer White only importer of authentic Panama hats. Better than Sex, 926 Simonton The owners developed the boutique to Presentation Editor St. 305-296-8102; www.betterthan- carry on the centuries-old tradition of Eric Raddatz sexkeywest.com. A great place for hand weaving hats (which come from [email protected] couples. Swing by this dessert-only, COURTESY PHOTO Ecuador and not Panama, by the way). adults-only restaurant late in the eve- The Mellow Café and Gastro Pub is open for There are styles for men and women Production Manager ning. Indulge your senses with choco- breakfast, lunch and dinner. in a wide array of colors and weaves. Alisa Bowman late dipped wine glasses and cheeky, There’s also a nice selection of wearable [email protected] homemade desserts and beverages such ret St. 305-292-4747; www.cuban- fair trade crafts such as jewelry, ikat as an Ephemere Apple Spiced Ale in a coffeequeen.com. The strong Cuban wraps and shigra bags. Graphic Designers tall beer glass with a signature caramel coffee at this hole in the wall is also Chris Andruskiewicz rim-job. Lick it good. rich in Key West heritage. A café con Little Pearl, 632 Olivia St. 305-204- Paul Heinrich • Scott Sleeper leche paired with a classic Cuban 4762; www.littlepearlkeywest.com. Mellow Café and Gastro Pub, 1605 sandwich or some Havana rice and Nestled in the heart of Old Town Key Circulation Manager Roosevelt Blvd. 305-745-3874; www. beans will keep you going long into a West and away from the bustling down- Michael Gagliardi mellowventureskeywesst.com. Near Key West night. town streets sits this excellent spot for [email protected] the water in Old Town Key West, the fresh local catch and innovative cuisine café is open for breakfast, lunch and Firefly, 223 Petronia St. 305-849- with a tropical twist. It’s new and it’s Sales and Marketing Assistant dinner and offers unique island fare 0104; www.fireflykeywest.com. Being hot. Reservations are required. Tiffany Nagle with a mellow atmosphere to match. that Key West is home to the southern- Operations Manager The menu items are crafted with fresh, most point of the continental United Nancy Forrester’s Secret Gar- Kelli Carico locally sourced ingredients and include States, it’s fitting that the island is home den, 518 Elizabeth St. 305-294-0015; a fresh catch, Havana roasted pork, to a very southern-inspired restaurant. www.nancyforrester.com. Ms. For- Published by romaine leaf plates and caramelized Firefly’s plantation-style look and South- rester has a secret, and it’s not her Florida Media Group LLC banana chocolate tacos. Drink options ern-inspired cuisine give it the most garden, per se: It’s what she keeps 100 Grinnell Street • Key West, FL 33040 include a large selection of craft beers, down-home feel of any culinary experi- there. The longtime environmentalist 305.363.1310 11 rotating tap beers, wine, house-made ence on the island. The shrimp and grits, has been caring for orphaned parrots sangria, and champagne cocktails. They fried chicken and bacon-wrapped meat- for more than 30 years. She invites www.FloridaWeekly.com have a great happy hour daily from 5-7 loaf are a few fan favorites. the public to meet them, take pictures, p.m., and delivery is available. hold them and listen as she educates Key West Island Bookstore, 513 the community about her fine feath- Copyright: The contents of the Florida Weekly are copyright 2018 by Florida Media Group, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without Cuban Coffee Queen, 284 Marga- Fleming St. www.Keywestisland- ered friends. ■ the express written consent of Florida Media Group, LLC. A COZY UPSCALE CRAFTCRAF COCKTAIL BAR & LIQUOR STORE

Every Sunday HAPPY HOUR 3-6 DAILY Taco Brunch 1/2 PRICE CAVIAR Happy Hour All Day! $10 STOLI ELITE MARTINIS & COSMOS $8 SELECTED WHITE, RED AND SPARKLING WINES $6 CRAFT COCKTAIL ON TAP

WITH CLASSIC COCKTAILS, FINE WINE & SMALL BITES! FULL RETAIL LIQUOR SPECIALTY STORE, STOCKING LOCAL DISTILLED SPIRITS, FINE WINES, LOCAL FLORIDA BEERS, RARE FINDS ASK ABOUT DAILY SPECIALS! #WATERFRONTBREWS#WATERFRONTBREWS

AWARD WINNING BEER

CRAZY LADY HONEY BLONDE ALE This blonde ale brewed with local honey is good as it gets. A nice clean ale with a subtle honey-like sweetness that lingers just long enough. Very drinkable and smooth. Brewed in KeyWest, ISLANDISLAN LIFE AMERICANAMERIC LAGER StandardStandard American Lagers are the “r“regular”egular” sstrength versions of the light AmAmericanericcanan lagers. The style guidelines fforor tthishis bbeere are almost identical as Drank ththoseose for ththe light versions. in the Keys ! LAZYLAZYY WAYW IPA AMERICAN IPA A medium-bodied, lightly toasted IPA with a malt character and a balanced bitterness. The piney hop notes carry through to the flavor. Finishes crisp and fairly dry.

BREWERYBREWERY TTOURSOURS 7+856'$<$1')5,'$<$730‡6$785'$<$1'681'$<$7305,'$<$7 30‡ 6$785'$<$1'681'$<$7 30 BOOK ONLINEE AT WWW.THEWATERFRWWW.THEWATERFRONTBREWERY.COMONTBREWERY.COM On Draft at MELLOW CAFÉ AND GASTROPUB KEY WEST - THE WHISTLE STOP ISLAMORADA - LAZY DAYS SOUTH MARATHON www.THEWATERFRONTBREWERY.comWERYY.com • 305305-440-2270-440-2270 • 220101 WILLIAMWILLIAM STREETSTREET • KKEYEY WEST,WEST, FL A4 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST MAP IT OUT

Getting around Key West

1. Southernmost Point sans, food carts, palmists and psychics. 8. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum 11. Audubon House and Garden The corner of South Street and 200 Greene St., Key West 205 Whitehead St. Whitehead Street 5. Truman Little White House 305-294-2633 305-294-2116 www.southernmostpointwebcam.com 111 Front St. www.melfisher.org www.Audubonhouse.com The city of Key West erected this now www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com Exhibits include treasures from the Original lithographs by John James famous concrete buoy in 1983 to denote The Little White House adds a presi- Spanish galleons of 1622 discovered by Audubon are on display in this former the southernmost point in the continen- dential luster to the Conch Republic. Orig- Mel Fisher and his crew. home of shipwreck salvager Capt. John tial United States. inally built for Naval officers in 1890 and Geiger. used as a command headquarters in three 9. Mile Marker 0 Sign 2. Conch Tour Train wars, the Little White House later served 490 Whitehead St., corner 12. Key West City Cemetery 303 Front St., Key West as lodging for President Harry S. Tru- of Fleming Street Bordered by Angela, Frances and 305-294-5161 or 888-916-8687 man’s winter retreats from 1946 to 1952. U.S. 1 begins here in Key West and Olivia streets and Windsor Lane www.conchtourtrain.com continues 2,369 miles north up the East 305-292-6718 The Conch Train has been winding 6. The Ernest Hemingway Coast before ending in Fort Kent, Me. www.Friendsofthekeywestcemetary. its way through the streets of Key West Home & Museum Stop here to commemorate your visit to com since 1958. 907 Whitehead St., Key West Key West with a photo next to the iconic Stop by the sexton’s office near the 305-294-1136 Mile Marker 0 sign. entrance at Passover Lane and Windsor 3. Sloppy Joe’s www.hemingwayhome.com Lane for a map containing a free walking 201 Duval St. Take the tour and say hello to one of 10. Key West Express Ferry tour. 305-294-5717 the 40-50 six-toed cats, all descendants of Terminal www.sloppyjoes.com Hemingway’s cat, Snowball. 100 Grinnell St. 13. Fort Zachary Taylor The historic bar has been a Key West 239-463-5733 State Park and Beach tradition since it opened in 1933. Its most 7. The Key West Butterfly www.Keywestexpress.net At the ocean end of Southard Street famous patrons were Ernest Hemming- & Nature Conservatory Traveling via the Express is truly the and bordering the Naval Reservation. way and the rum runner Habana Joe. 1316 Duval St., Key West best way to get between Key West, Fort 305-295-0037 305-296-2988 or 800-839-4647 Myers Beach or Marco Island. You’ll www.Fortzacharytaylor.com 4. Mallory Square Sunset www.keywestbutterfly.com enjoy air-conditioned interiors, exteri- “Fort Zach” is known to locals and Celebration More than 50 butterfly species from or sun decks, couches, tables and even tourists alike as one of Key West’s best 1 Whitehead St., Key West around the world and 20 exotic bird spe- reclining airline-style seating. There’s a beaches. In addition to the expansive 786-565-7448 cies coexist in this climate-controlled, full-service galley, full-service bar and beach, the 54-acre park has nature trails, www.sunsetcelebration.org glass-enclosed habitat that includes flat-screen TVs with satellite television. bike paths, picnic tables and grills and This nightly festival begins at the waterfalls, flowering plants and trees. Historic Fort Zachary Taylor. Enjoy the water’s edge an hour or two before sunset beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and and includes street performers, local arti- the Key West Shipping Channel. ■ End of SUMMER

GET AWAY $ ROUND THERE’S SOMETHING FROM ONLY125 TRIP!* FOR EVERYONE IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA! Enjoy a tropical drink from the bar or bite to eat from the galley as your adventure begins. Sit back and relax within one of the air conditioned cabins or take in the sun and soft ocean breezes from the sun decks. Explore the natural beauty of Sanibel and Captiva Islands, the art and music festivals of the historic River District, the eclectic culture of Fort Myers Beach and world-class shopping throughout 1-800-593-7259 Fort Myers and Naples. keywestexpress.net Book Your TripToday!y

*Minimum 8 day advance purchase, non-refundable fare. Cannot be combined with other offers. Weekend fee applies to any travel Friday thru Sunday. Expires September 30, 2018. Online purchases. GET READY FOR YOUR NAUTICAL ADVENTURE! FASTER THAN DRIVING, CHEAPER THAN FLYING, THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL A6 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST BARTENDER OF THE WEEK Gage Beaulieu, at home in three spots around town

BY JENNIFER WHITE apple-infused vodka, Cointreau and Brewery, when the previous owner, Florida Weekly Correspondent cranberry juice. The bar at the actress Kelly McGillis, was still the Afterdeck wraps like a half moon hostess. He also operated jet ski If you walk into the swanky, nook along the edge of a wide patio with tours for Barefoot Billy’s, tried his and cranny, Berlin’s Lounge at the A&B an unpretentious beach hut vibe hand at catering with Mangos and Lobster House on a Friday, Saturday or in an upscale tropical atmosphere. dabbled in a little bit of landscap- Sunday around 7 p.m., there’s a good The best thing to do at this water- ing — “whatever would pay the chance you’ll find bartender Gage Beau- front hangout is “to look up at the bills” — but he is most comfortable lieu serving up of high-end whiskies to stars, feel the breeze and see the behind the bar top. Actually, back a discerning crowd of cigar smokers and ocean,” Gage says. “We’ve got some it up, let me rephrase. He seems to connoisseurs. of the most beautiful views.” Gage be most comfortable behind one of Berlin’s is a modestly sized bar with has been fortunate enough to enjoy three bar tops. leather club chairs and enchanting sun- the view here for five years. “I like having three different fami- set views which features Bria Ansara, a And if you were to walk into Lat- lies. When you are in the industry soulful singer who croons classic love itudes on Sunset Key after a short you tend to work holidays and week- songs during the fall and winter season. and romantic ferry ride any other ends so the people you work with During the summer you can keep your- day of the week then you might be become your family,” he says. “And self entertained by pretending that the surprised to find that Gage works I really like making people happy. person sitting next to you is a member here as well and has been here for Come and see me for a laugh. I usu- of mafia. It has that kind of old New the last three years off and on. ally have some sort of story to tell York City clubby vibe. “It’s the best sunset spot for din- between the three restaurants.” Let Gage shake you up an espresso ner on the island and it is just so And if you are to see Gage enjoy- martini made with Van Gogh vanilla awesome the way the lights look ing a rare day off, go ahead and buy vodka, Van Gogh espresso vodka, Kah- at night around the palm trees, but him a drink. He loves a good Cap- lua and freshly brewed espresso and my schedule at Latitudes varies — tain and Coke —unless you spot relax into acting like the grown up that you’ll have to be lucky to catch me him at the pool, where he enjoys an you are. Or you can order from the full here.” ice-cold beer. ■ menu which includes old fashioneds Gage moved down to Key West and lobster thermidors, Manhattans and from New Hampshire in 1998 to Berlin’s Cigar & Cocktail Bar béarnaise-drenched filet mignons. check things out. Somewhere at the JENNIFER WHITE / FLORIDA WEEKLY 700 Front St. “It’s a great air-conditioned, cold bar, beginning of his island love affair www.aandblobsterhouse.com and if you’re a smoker then you can he went home to for a year and missed here I don’t really have any. I’m pretty have a nice dinner along with your it so much that he made his way back happy as it is now and hopefully every- The Afterdeck at Louie’s Backyard cigar,” Gage explains. down South as fast as he could and has thing stays the same.” 700 Waddell Ave. Walk off into the Afterdeck at Louie’s no further plans to leave anytime soon. Gage learned the basics of mixology www.louiesbackyard.com Backyard on a Monday evening around “I don’t have too many bad days liv- from his best friend’s aunt and put the 7 p.m. and find Gage pouring glasses of ing here,” he smiles, with a contagious skills to use after landing his debut gig at Latitudes fine wine and mixing the bar’s signature grin that goes from ear to ear. “The year Kelly’s Caribbean Bar Grill and Brewery, Sunset Key Island Cosmopolitans made with pine- I went home I had a lot of bad days, but now First Flight Island Restaurant and www.sunsetkeycottages.com

KEY WEST’S BEST ECO-EXPERIENCE ENJOY AN ECLECTIC FUSION OF TRADITIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL &=LK CUISINE OVERLOOKING DUVAL STREET. Go Explore

Key West Eco Tours Inc. is locally ownedown and operated business in Key West. RELAX ON OUR PORCH OR Our ownersown are passionate about Key West and its ununiqueique sub-tropicalsub-tr eco-system. At Key West Eco Tours INSIDE OUR HISTORIC BUILDING Inc, we prpromoteomote coconservation efforts and conduct our tours in accordance with the hihighestgh environmental standards. Come join us andand experienceexperience the natural wonders of Key West and the Florida Keys.

KAYAK & PADDLEBOARD JAVA CAT 4"*-t,":", HAPPY HOUR - 5PM TO 7PM SNORKEL HALF OFF APPETIZERS, BEER, WINE AND COCKTAILS! JAVA CAT Speciality Martini’s: Espresso Martini Ř Key Lime Martini Ř Lychee Martini SUNSET SAIL Call Us Now at 305-294-7245 or Book Now at 314 Duval Street • Key West • 305.292.4740 www.keywestecotours.com www.grandcafekeywest.com ',!, .-., .c! #! ,, c% 31 -. &

A8 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST CALENDAR OF EVENTS SPECIAL EVENTS nasaloon.com Sloppy Joes Comedy Key West presents 201 Duval St. Dustin Diamond Live Music Nightly Aug. 16 and 17, 8:30 p.m. Check the schedule at The BottleCap www.sloppyjoes.com 1128 Simonton St. www.bottlecapkeywest.com PHOTOGRAPHY

Havana Nights Photographs by Jorge de la Aug. 18, 8 p.m. Torriente The Key West Theater Ongoing 512 Eaton St. De La Gallery www.thekeywesttheater.com 419 Duval St. Data Recovery Project www.delagallery.com 305-395-2210 Aug. 22, 9 p.m. DE LA GALLERY / COURTESY PHOTO Sidebar at Aqua Photographer/artist Jorge de la Torriente and master framer Jeffrey Rodriguez specialize in Homegrown large format coastal, seaside and landscape fine art photography at De La Gallery. Stop by 504 Angela St. Photographs by Michael Marrero www.sidebarkeywest.com and see the ongoing exhibition at 419 Duval St. www.delagallery.com, 305-395-2210. Pictured above is “8-6-4-2.” Ongoing The Big Lebowski Gallery on Greene Aug. 22, 8 p.m. 606 Greene St. Mondays, 9 p.m. Tropic Cinema www.galleryongreene.com Drunken Spelling Bee, First Monday 416 Eaton St. of each month, 9 p.m. www.tropiccinema.com MUSIC Trivia, Tuesday Nights, 6:30 p.m. CINEMA Green Parrot Bar SIN Night (Service Industry Night), COMEDY 601 Whitehead St. Wednesdays 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Tropic Cinema Live Music Nightly 416 Eaton St. Mellow Café and Gastropub Comedy Open Mic Night Check the schedule at www.tropiccinema.com Bike Nights and Live Music Mondays, 9 p.m. www.greenparrot.com Check the website for ongoing films Ride your bike and get half off your Mary Ellen’s Bar and Restaurant meal 420 Appelrouth Lane Irish Kevin’s 211 Duval St. Thursdays, 6-10 p.m. Comedy Key West Live Music Nightly 1605 North Roosevelt Blvd. Thursdays and Fridays, 7:30 to 10 p.m. Check the schedule at www.mellowkw.com www.irishkevins.com The Blue Room Smoking Tuna 1128 Simonton St. 4 Charles St. Tickets available at Mary Ellen’s Live Music Nightly www.comedykeywest.com 420 Appelrouth Lane Open Mic with Comedy Key West, Check the schedule at www.smokingtu- FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A9 KEY WEST CALENDAR OF EVENTS LGBT ■ Enjoy a night of live music Aqua Nightclub #KW 711 Duval St. (and dancing!) with Havana Aqua Idol for the Florida Keys SPCA Nights, Aug. 18, 8 p.m., The Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Drag Shows Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. Nightly, 7 and 9 p.m. — www.thekeywest Karaoke theater.com Monday-Thursday, 11 p.m. www.Aquakeywest.com Bobby’s Monkey Bar 900 Simonton St. Karaoke nightly, 9:30 p.m. Bobby’s Monkey Bar on Facebook 8.18 Bourbon St. Pub 724 Duval St. ■ Comedy Just Jeff (Moss), Thursday-Sunday, 8- Key West presents 10 p.m. Dustin Diamond (Screech Ronnie, Monday-Wednesday, 3-8 p.m. The Men of Bourbon, Nightly from “Saved by the Bell”), www.BourbonSt.pub.com Aug. 16-17, 8:30 p.m. 801 Bourbon Bar The BottleCap 801 Duval St. 1128 Simonton St. 8.22 Drag Shows, Nightly, 9 and 11 p.m. Happy Hour Drag, 5 p.m. Saturday — www.bottlecap Drag Karaoke, 4 p.m. Sunday keywest.com Messy Mondays with Mulysa, 1 a.m. Monday Fierce and Fabulous/Dragalicious, 1 a.m. Wednesday www.801bourbon.com Sidebar at Aqua 504 Angela St. Kristen McNamara, Wednesday and Sat- urday, 6:30-9:30 p.m. www.sidebarkeywest.com ■ Synth duo, Data Recovery La Te Da Project, perform Aug. 22, 9 1125 Duval St. Christopher Peterson, Aug. 18, 9 p.m. p.m., Sidebar at Aqua, 504 Randy Roberts, Aug. 16 and 21, 9 p.m. Angela St. 3Sum, Aug. 16-19, 8:30 p.m. Ronnie Lively, Aug. 20, 8:30 — www.sidebarkeywest.com The Fabulous Spectrelles, Aug. 21-22, 8.16-17 8:30 p.m. Tea Dance, Sunday, 4-6:30 p.m. www.Lateda.com ■ Celebrate the 20th AROUND KEY WEST anniversary of the Coen

Brothers’ classic tale of 8.22 Local Farm Stand kidnapping, bowling and Wednesday, 5-7 p.m. a rug that really tied the Mellow Café and Gastropub 1605 North Roosevelt Blvd. room together. “The Big Lebowski,” Aug. 22, 8 p.m., Ghost Tours and Ghost Hunts Nightly Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St. 301 Whitehead St. and 1102 Duval St. — www.tropiccinema.com 305-395-1435 www.hauntedkeywest.com ■

$14

VISIT US IN KEY WEST! FREE PARKING behind 712 Duval • 305.440.2179 the restaurant for patrons! Or check out our other 8 SWFL LOCATIONS! A10 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST HEAT From page 1 pets inside for the love of all that is holy kind of blazing heat. And as if the scorch- ing temps weren’t enough to keep us nice and toasty, Tropical Heat is back for its 14th year of lighting the island on fire. Key West Tropical Heat, hosted by the Key West Business Guild, runs through Sun- day, Aug. 19, and promises five nights and four days chock full of gay male erotica. (Mom, you can stop reading here.) Lest the prude amongst you run to cover your eyes and ears, the schedule does feature the occasional art show, trolley tour or nightclub act. And though the weekend is geared toward men, women are welcome to a handful of the events. As always, the Business Guild has mobilized its business COURTESY PHOTOS members, gay-oriented or non-, to orga- Tropical Heat kicks off at the Island House. nize an astonishing 30-some events and activities. All-day programming will carry Tropical Heaters from mornings on the THURSDAY water to afternoon tours to happy hours FOR THOSE LOOKING TO ENJOY THE NOON- and on until the wee hours of morning. time sun in as little (or no) clothing as Aquatic highlights of this year’s day- possible on Thursday, Equator Resort, time schedule include the Blu Q Snorkel 822 Duval St. (www.equatorresort.com), and Sandbar Cruise offered Thursday will host the Bare or Underwear Pool Par- through Saturday (bluqkeywest.com), as ty from noon to 4 p.m. A wide variety of well as the Sandbar Sunday Excursion. drinks will be available for just $5. Make Aboard the Blu Q , Key West’s only all gay sure you get a solid nap in after all that sailing catamaran, participants will have sun exposure. Saloon One’s annual Fore- the opportunity to snorkel, kayak, explore PLAY party begins at 10 p.m. at 801 Du- the reefs and explore and play like a true val St. “in the REAR!” (www.801bourbon. local. Those excursions are just the tip of com/1saloon.html). the volcano (iceberg just doesn’t seem We know all these late-night events are appropriate for an event called Tropical super tempting — and who hasn’t said “I’ll Heat, now does it?). The full schedule is a just have one more …” and found them- dizzying runaway train of nonstop enter- selves belting out showtunes at Bobby’s tainment. on the other side of midnight? —but Blue Q charters offers “Snorkel & Sandbar” cruises Thursday-Saturday. don’t forget about maximizing your sun- ■ ■ ■ nier waking hours. There are a number of aquatic outfits available for you to sun those buns every day from Thursday until are some choices to be made. Check out the end of your Tropical Heat weekend. the noon Tropical Heat Skinny Dip Party at the Island House. It’s a “EPIC” all-male ■ ■ ■ pool party for men who like to play. And no Tropical Heat weekend would FRIDAY be complete without the annual Tropical Heat Toga Party at the Equator Resort FRIDAY’S DAYTIME FEATURE IS A NOON from 7-10 p.m. (Bonus: 100 percent of the SPLASH! Pool Party at Bourbon Street door donations and raffle ticket sales at Pub, 724 Duval St. (www.bourbonstpub. the 13th annual affair benefit the MARC com), followed the Traffic Light Party, House, a beloved local institution that an annual favorite. This year’s theme is provides numerous ser- “Village People Edition,” vices for adults with de- with prizes for the best re- velopmental disabilities.) productions of the sextet’s As night falls, there’s iconic costumes. The Traf- the famous 801 Girls fic Light Party runs from Show upstairs in the 7-10 p.m. at Alexander’s cabaret at the 801 Bar, Guest House, 1118 Fleming logically at 801 Duval St. Street (www.alexander- Show times are 9 and 11 skeywest.com). p.m. (www.801bourbon. Nightfall means it’s time com). Finally, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. is for a show — in this case, the Aquanette’s what’s being touted as The Main Event “Reality is a Drag” revue at 9 and 11 p.m. of Tropical Heat: “The Big ‘O’ Exhibition” at Aqua Nightclub, 711 Duval St. (www. back at the Bourbon Street Pub. There aquakeywest.com). will be a foam party, play areas, exotic For something a little more risqué, dancers and live exhibition shows. we offer a choice between two enticing events: The Glow Party at SideBar, 504 ■ ■ ■ Angela St. (www.sidebarkeywest.com), from 9 p.m. until the party ends or Saloon One’s Hotter Than Hell party from 10 p.m. SUNDAY to 4 a.m. “Unleash your fetish,” the ads ad- FOR ALL WHO SURVIVE UNTIL SUNDAY vise. The event is fetish attire or clothing and want to do anything more than lay optional with clothes check provided. around basking in the weekend’s glow, there’s another full day ahead, beginning ■ ■ ■ with watersports in the morning for the early-risers among you and proceeding SATURDAY to a special Blu Q “Sandbar Sunday Ex- cursion” at 11 a.m. (www.bluqkeywest. BOYS, WE HOPE YOU BROUGHT THOSE HIGH- com). Meanwhile, Island House hosts limit credit cards. Kick off Saturday morn- a “Hot Naked Sunday Pool Party” from ing with the Boys in Heat Flash Sale at noon to 4 p.m., whih is when the music Graffitti (729 Duval St.). V.I.P. passhold- begins for Key West’s Traditional Tea ers get 25 percent off everything in the Dance at La Te Da, 1125 Duval St. (www. store from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. After you’ve lateda.com). cleaned the shop out, tote your shiny new Once Tea Dance is over, pop over to goods to the 11 a.m. Gay Trolley Tour (de- Mangoes’ Ricky Ricardo Room for the parting from the corner of Duval and An- Tea Dance After Party beginning at 7 gela streets). p.m. At the end of the long weekend, Saturday is always party time, but this bask in “The Afterglow” back at Saloon year it looks as if the folks over at the Busi- One beginning at 10 p.m. ness Guild have gone that extra mile. Af- “Tropical Heat is one of the best ter a morning of play on the water, there events of the year,” says Dan Skahen, FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A11

COURTESY PHOTOS Be sure to plan time to cool off in the pool with a cold drink. executive director of the Key West site or call the Key West business Guild Business Guild. “It brings fun people to at 305-294-4603. the island and each year it grows bigger and hotter.” ■ ■ ■ You can get a VIP Pass for $99 online at www.tropicalheatkw.com. At press HISTORY time, a limited number of tickets were BEFORE THE FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST available for individual events. Edition was even a twinkle in the local For additional details, visit the web- journalistic arena, Tropical Heat week- end started out including both men and women, but with Womenfest occurring only a few weeks later, Tropical Heat transitioned to an all-male event. Still, there are events, such as the drag shows, where women are welcome. This also ap- plies to the Gay Key West Trolley Tour on Saturday afternoon. Whether you’re here for a little history or just the “heat,” Tropical Heat promises to be a steamy weekend no matter what the thermostat reads. ■ Island House Resort The Equator Resort Cultural Day Trips to HavanaCuba!

Don’t Miss the Opportunity!

PLAN YOUR TRIP TODAY!

Call Us Today!

SCHEDULED DAY-TRIPS TO HAVANA EVERY MONDAY AND FRIDAY! OurO missioni i iis to ffacilitateili theh experiencei thath onlyl CCubab can offerff through its culture, history, natural beauty, and people. We are proud to offer full-service travel arrangements to individuals, groups, families, educators, students, professionals, and organizations under the General License categories issued by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. 305-923-4033 Find us online at AIRKEYWEST.com A12 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST

borne, with noses pressed against one’s private window, a scene befitting National TORTUGAS Geographic floats peacefully beneath you. From page 1 You’ll marvel at just how many kinds of blue there are before Garden Key — the name of the specific island on which Fort and forth daily between Key West and Jefferson sits — comes into view, a mas- Fort Jefferson, the Civil War-era island sive, red-brick hexagon plunked in the fortress inside the park. The ferry ride is middle of what appears to be an endless, fast, relatively speaking: a little over two uninhabited sea. The whole flight lasts hours if the seas are calm, during which about 40 minutes, and planes are able an onboard naturalist points out areas of to land at times both before and after interest as they zoom by. The boat boasts the ferry, meaning that passengers often a large tiered bow, food, drinks, freshwa- find themselves strolling and sunbathing ter rinses for your post-swim trip home, across what feels like their own private is- indoor air-conditioned seating, and plenty land, its reef and beaches mercifully quiet of outdoor observation deck space for tak- and deserted. The trip provides free soft ing selfies against a backdrop of turquoise drinks and snorkel gear, but the upgrade in water. Included with the purchase price cost compared to a ferry ticket ($600 for a of one $180 adult ticket (children ride for full eight-hour day, or $342 for four hours, $125) are breakfast and lunch, a voluntary both including travel time) can be off-put- guided tour of the fort and its riveting his- ting to some, while to others, having a pic- COURTESY PHOTO turesque desert island to themselves for a tory, as well as complimentary snorkel- The entrance to Fort Jefferson. ing equipment to use exploring the truly few hours is practically priceless. You can spectacular reef structure surrounding wallpaper. erable to others. The latter group will close your eyes, block out the other 11 or the fort’s main island. The islands also act as a crucial layover want to shell out the extra cash to book so passengers, and picture yourself back In addition to its pristine underwa- for migratory birds, making them an orni- a seat on one of Key West Seaplane Ad- in the time of good ole’ Ponce de León, ter vistas, the Dry Tortugas also offer thologist’s perfect tropical vacation spot. ventures’ small seaplanes, which fly cus- pulling in turtles and soaking up the sun postcard-perfect white sand beaches and Eight of the almost 300 species that stop- tomers across the ocean at an altitude low before setting out to find the Fountain of views that look like B-roll footage from the over at the fort choose to nest within the enough for dazzling sightseeing. Flights Youth and accidently ramming into Cuba. latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Peo- island’s protected borders, including bird- are limited to under a dozen passengers, For Kelly Clark, cultural resources spe- ple who travel to the Keys expecting miles er favorites like the roseate tern, magnifi- while the ride itself includes a guided cialist for Dry Tortugas National Park, of powdery beach snuggled up against a cent frigate, masked booby, sooty tern and audio tour of the jaw-dropping spectacle it’s not all fun, games and masked booby crystalline sea are often disappointed to brown noddy, the last four of which nest below… and it’s a freaking spectacle, all sightings. Since 2007, Clark has been find that our beaches are decidedly more nowhere else in the United States. right: shipwrecks, shifting sand dunes, tasked with maintaining the “built” envi- rustic than those belonging to our Carib- And then, of course, there’s the name: sharks and turtles are all easily spotted, ronment of the park, including the fort, bean neighbors. But on a good weather gifted by famed Fountain of Youth-seeker thanks to each passenger having a win- lighthouses and underwater archeologi- day — which is often, since the Dry Tortu- Ponce de León himself, who named the dow seat. All in all, there’s something very cal sites. Unsurprisingly, old, crumbling gas’ lack of land mass makes them unable islands after their combined lack of fresh genteel about the whole experience. You ruins tend to want to crumble more, and to generate thunderstorms — the beauty water and overabundance of tasty sea board at the private airplane section of the it’s Clark who assesses the conditions of of the Dry Tortugas is ineffable, a shim- turtles. History buffs will love traipsing airport (and if that’s not something that’s each structure, documents its state and mering gradient of blues and greens lay- around the circa-1875 old brick fort, the unusual to you, may I ask if you are look- plans future preservation projects. She is ered on top of superfine, snow white sand, largest all-masonry fortress in the United ing to adopt a 30-year-old freelance writ- effusive when describing why the park is stretching toward a horizon line dotted States, and learning about its engrossing, er?) after which you are ferried onto your a must-see for anyone in the area. with piratey-looking ship silhouettes, the and sometimes bizarre, history. seaplane, ice water in hand, and given a “It’s truly a gem of the Park Service,” kind of quintessentially tropical setting The Yankee Freedom III caps its pas- set of cool-looking headphones through she says, noting that, while it takes com- that makes for excellent computer screen senger load at 175 — cozy to some, intol- which your guided tour plays. Once air- mitment to reach the park, the rewards are

This is how we roll in KEY WEST!

FREE from Ferry Terminal, Airport ADVENTURE SHUTTLETaWƓ_ƞbg[Xe>ƗlJXfg?bƕTg\ơaf PACKAGES: Beach Are you ready for a Key West Jeep Adventure? Now, all you have to do is choose which Jeep you want. We’ve got a wide 5\^X—>TlƓ^ selection of Jeeps to choose from. Whether you want a Paddleboard 2-door or 4-door, soft top, hard top or no top at all, we’ve got Adventure the perfect Jeep to suit your style and needs. Scroll through Custom the photos of our Jeep fleet and pick the one you want. We also have minivans and basic cars available! Are You Ready for a Key West Jeep Adventure? CONTACT US! 3424 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 305-293-3555—www.keywestjeep.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A13 “Words do not do these resources justice, and it’s by far one of the most photogenic places one could visit ... Not to mention you can’t shovel sunshine.” — Kelly Clark, cultural resources specialist, Dry Tortugas National Park

COURTESY PHOTO The remains of an old pier at Fort Jefferson. well worth the journey. Protecting such an swept through the prison, killing both the ment’s 1995-1996 shutdown, residents of unspoiled paradise takes constant vigilance, prison’s resident doctor and a large per- Key West were able to pull together the which is why the entire chain of islands is centage of inmates, Mudd stepped in to fill funding to keep the property open to visi- classified as a “pack in, pack out” site, mean- the role of the prison’s physician. He was tors. ing all visitors (including those who choose able to successfully stave off the contin- Since then, visitors have arrived in to camp out for the night on Garden Key) ued spread of the disease, a feat that won droves by boat and plane to wend their must provide their own resources when him the pardon of President Johnson, after way through the fort, where tour guides they arrive, and then take those resources surviving prisoners wrote to the president delight in pointing out Mudd’s old prison and any trash they create back with them and described Mudd’s brave service dur- cell. Some come simply to enjoy the im- when they leave. Though fishing is allowed ing the epidemic. Pardon granted, Mudd maculate ecosystem of the property, en- in 52 percent of the park’s 47,125 acres (most was allowed to leave the prison in 1869 sured by its establishment and continued of which are underwater), the park strictly and return home to Maryland. protection as a national park in 1992. “As forbids lobstering and spearfishing, and By 1874 the fort had become too expen- visitors begin to hear about the history anchoring sites are diligently monitored sive to maintain as a military stronghold, and comprehend the role that the fort and to insure the integrity of the seafloor re- and was abandoned by the Army to be the geography of the Dry Tortugas played mains uncompromised. used instead as a coaling station for war- in the larger theme of maritime and mili- It’s not just the sheer wonder its natu- ships. One final, famous visitor, the USS tary history, it becomes hard to under-em- ral beauty inspires that makes the park, Maine, departed from Fort Jefferson to be- phasize why it is so special,” says Clark. and Fort Jefferson in particular, so spe- gin its fateful mission to Cuba, after which “Words do not do these resources justice, cial to the estimated 63,000 visitors who the fort began a slow decline into what and it’s by far one of the most photoge- visit annually. The island boasts a rich, would have been ruin, had it not received nic places one could visit,” she says. “Not storied history, once having served as a classification as a National Monument by to mention,” she adds wisely, “You can’t home to naval officers and their families, President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Though shovel sunshine.” ■ lighthouse keepers, prisoners, slaves and briefly closed during the federal govern- one particularly famous doctor. Fans of American history flock to the island to witness in person Fort Jefferson’s magnifi- cence. Otherwise known as the “Gibraltar of the Gulf,” the 16 million brick, three- tiered fortress, in its heyday, housed some of the most advanced military weapons available. Other visitors enjoy sitting on a beach knowing that it was previously oc- Be-YOU-tiful cupied by pirates in the 1600s and 1700s, who took advantage of the island’s prime position in the gulf to attack merchant (inside & out!) ships passing by. If you were to brush off your old history books they might mention that, during the The certified professional therapists at Civil War, Key West remained a Union Ocean Wellness Spa & Salon provide the stronghold despite its decidedly Southern service, guidance & support to enhance location. Its own fortress, Fort Zachary, paired with the Dry Tortugas’ Fort Jeffer- all that gorgeousness that is YOU! son, were together tasked with protecting the Florida Straights and Gulf of Mexico from any Confederate boats who might otherwise attempt to come to shore to re-supply. In addition, Fort Jefferson was used to house Union deserters banished to military prison. The actual construc- tion of the fort, begun in 1846, continued over the next 30 years, during which it hosted one particularly infamous prisoner by the name of Dr. Samuel Mudd. When John Wilkes Booth, the American stage actor responsible for assassinating President Abraham Lincoln, fled the the- Ocean atre in which he’d committed the crime, Wellness Spa & Salon he broke his leg, reportedly when a horse fell on him (karma can indeed be quite the saucy wench). He arrived at the doorstep FL Lic#30205 of Dr. Mudd, a pro-slavery tobacco farmer who set and bandaged Booth’s broken leg, then allowed him to hide out in an upstairs bedroom. After he’d had a nice, recuperat- ing rest, Booth scampered the following Call (305)320-0500 for reservations morning, after which Mudd waited a full or online at OceanSpaKeyWest.com 24 hours before notifying the police of the event. It didn’t look good for Dr. Mudd. 829 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040 Ample parking off of Olivia St Later, having been convicted in the conspiracy of President Lincoln’s assassi- MASSAGE NATURAL BODY TREATMENTS nation, Mudd arrived at the prison of Fort Jefferson as a pariah. He spent two years NATURAL SKINCARE FULL SERVICE AVEDA SALON as an inmate inside the fort’s impenetra- NATURAL NAILS ACUPUNCTURE ble, badly ventilated walls. When a par- ticularly contagious spat of yellow fever A14 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 FLORIDA WEEKLY ULTIMATEthe SOUVENIR!

NEW - USED - RARARERE BOOK SIGNING

KRISTINA NEIHOUSE “Knowing When to Leave” Book One of Omeg Series In January 2016, Josie McKenzie, a senior in Key West High School, decides to keep a journal. COURTESY PHOTOS What follows is a chaotic year as South Florida Data Recovery Project is a Washington, D.C.-based synth duo consisting of Key West resident and the US are overcome by a mysterious virus Christopher Kush and itinerant musician Daniel Warren Hill. and a destructive hurricane season. Friday, August 17th 5pm to 7pm TATTOOS & PIERCINGS Meet the Author and enjoy a glass of wine. Kristina was awarded a Literary Art Grant Data Recovery Project returns For appointment by the Anne McKee Artists Fund. to Key West for fundraiser 305-295-2556 305-294-2904 712A Duval Street, Key West KEY WEST ISLAND BOOKS SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY www.conchink.com 513 Fleming Street, Key West www.KWIslandBooks.com Following its Key West debut at Mary Ellen’s Bar in April, the Data Recovery Project returns to Key West on Wednes- day, Aug. 22, to perform at Sidebar at Aqua as a benefit for the Sister Season COMEDY KEY WEST Fund. There is no cover to see the show, and everyone who gives $5 or more to Join us Sister Season at the venue will receive a glow-in-the-dark USB bracelet contain- EVERY THURSDAY & FRIDAY ing Data Recovery Project’s new EP. DDD>B:7DqD DD?B:7 Data Recovery Project is a Washing- ton, D.C.-based synth duo consisting of Key West resident Christopher Kush Key West’s ONLY weekly stand up comedy show at the southernmost and itinerant musician Daniel War- comedy venue in the US with the BEST stand up comics from all ren Hill. The two channel retro Hi-NRG over the world, from rising stars to household names. dance beats, trenchant observations and reflective meditations through their own mischievous irreverence. Performing regularly as a live- tronica act combining original will be behind the bar. This Week... songs with mixed-live video elements, Kush says he’s looking forward to they have appeared in U.S. cities from doing the show as a benefit for Sister THURSDAY FRIDAYAY Boston to Key West, and as part of the Season. August 16th August 17th Fort Reno Summer Concert Series in “People like me come to Key West TICKETS Washington, D.C. and expect the locals to facilitate our DUSTIN MYKE $15 Somehow, they remain relatively meals and entertainment, and we often unknown. expect them to be our drinking bud- DIAMOND and HERLIHY “It was 10 short years ago that dies and dinner companions at Dustin Diamond is a pop culture icon and is best Myke Herlihy is one of the most lovable jerks you’ll ever meet! I hosted a fundraiser for the the same time. I think giv- known for his role as Screech on Saved by the Bell. After spending thirteen years behind bars, serving drinks, not Key West Library by play- ing back to the community His act is suitable for the now grown-up fans of time, Myke now takes his bartender’s wit to the stage Whether ing my favorite 12 remix- Saved by the Bell. It is adult-oriented, hilarious, and he’s discussing his failed relationships, ranting about the trials means recognizing that definitely not the same squeaky-clean, Saturday and tribulations of being an unplanned father, or reminiscing es at Mangoes,” Kush Key West, as we know morning comedy that he spent 10 years doing as over the insanity that was his childhood, Myke always manages says. “This time we are it, can only exist with Screech. to find the light at the end of the tunnel. taking it to the next the hard work of our Dustin Diamond and Myke Herlihy & Frank Del Pizzo level with a live band local service workers,” will peorm with local Key West comedians at the and video show. he says. “Sister Season Downward Dog Comedy Showcase at… “We’re considered helps when our service a ‘Livetronica’ act — and workers find themselves THE BOTTLECAP’S BLUE ROOM q 1128 SIMONTON STREET even we are not complete- in need. If we cannot guar- ly sure what that means, we antee that everyone on our do use cutting-edge electronics island makes a living wage (and ComeC FRANK DEL PIZZO as live instruments, and Daniel live- I have no problem suggesting that as a August 23rd & August 24th mixes video as part of the show. former business owner here), then the See Data Recovery Project requires three least we can do is to make sure there is a Frank Del Pizzo came from the real world to the comedy stage. Ten years things, he adds: good speakers, video as an auto mechanic left Frank ready to let the people know what he was lifeline when our friends and neighbors thinking. Frank is a breath of fresh air in a business that is full of hot air. screens and a fog machine. “Side Bar need it.” ■ He makes people laugh with his true to life stories and attitude. Likable is uniquely poised to help in all three and friendly, this New Jersey Native is able to take an audience on a areas, and we are thrilled to get to play Data Recovery Project journey that makes them feel like they have just taken a wild ride in the our first show there,” he says. Sidebar at Aqua back seat of his car. It should be noted that reigning Fan- 504 Angela St. FOR MORE INFO VISIT WWW.COMEDYKEYWEST.COM tasy Fest Queen Destiny Montgomery Aug. 22, Door open at 9 p.m. FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A15 Its namesake never saw it, but Audubon House still worth a look

BY MAXINE LOPEZ-KEOUGH For Capt. John Huling Gei- remains a reputable dealer of Florida Weekly Correspondent ger, a maritime pilot whose original Audubon work. The shipwrecking success had three-story home is filled with It’s midway through the tour of Key made him one of the richest precious antiquities and, of West’s stunningly pretty Audubon House men in the Florida Keys, such course, with Audubon’s work, and Tropical Gardens that the truth wealth demanded a home of as well as information about the comes out: John James Audubon — famed appropriate grandeur. In 1846, artist’s life and career. An acre of naturalist painter, whose lifelike paint- after the rest of the ilsand was lush tropical gardens surrounds ings of bird portraits line the walls of the mostly flattened in a hurricane, the home, featuring hundreds of museum — never actually lived in the Capt. Geiger chose a prominent orchids, a koi pond and a replica Audubon House. But don’t let this spoiler lot on which to build his family’s of the property’s original 1850s keep you from visiting; indeed, a visit to new home — a lavish Ameri- outdoor kitchen building. the Audubon House offers so much beau- can Classic Revival mansion of Visitors are encouraged to ty, charm and historical interest, you’ll be tropical wood at the intersec- wind their way through the quiet left feeling only that it was Audubon’s loss tion of Green and Whitehead brick pathways, taking note of that he was never able to inhabit such a streets, with an unobstructed the rare tropical plants (care- magical place. view of the ocean (and any new fully labeled for those without Amassing a fortune from treasure gath- potential shipwrecks). It was a COURTESY PHOTO extensive botanical knowledge) ered from the ruins of shipwrecks might grand, busy estate encompass- and view the medicinal and seem like a job description for a story- ing 6 acres, home to Capt. Geiger, his where the Geiger family mansion would herb garden, a staple of 19th-century book pirate, but in 19th-century Key West, wife, his children, and a number of slaves later be constructed. upscale homes. Though the museum and it was a lucrative and respectable way to who, in addition to domestic chores, were The Wolfsons began a two-year pro- its grounds are located in the bustling make a living. The busy passage between made to assist in the wrecking business cess of painstaking renovation, the first downtown district, once inside the pro- the Eastern Seaboard and the Gulf Coast that fueled Geiger’s wealth. historical renovation of its kind in Key tective foliage of the grounds, the sights was a dangerous place for ships to sail, For over a century, Capt. Geiger’s home West, at the end of which marked the and sounds of the outside world are and each year saw many boats wrecked remained in the family’s possession, until rechristening of the Geiger home as the muffled. Visitors are transported back in on offshore reefs during the frequent Capt. Geiger’s great-grandson, Capt. Wil- Audubon House Museum. They filled time to an island without tour buses or storms that pummeled the area. liam Bradford Smith, took up residence. the house with antiques, including many T-shirt shops, where fame and fortune “Finders keepers” might not mean Smith, a Key West Harbor pilot, lived items from the Geiger family, as well as awaited any man brave enough to watch much today, but for those in the wrecking in hermit-like seclusion without indoor numerous original hand-colored litho- the sea for a wrecked ship, and beat his industry of Key West, it was law. When a plumbing, electricity or cooking facilities, graphs by Audubon. fellow wreckers to the prize. ■ ship ran aground, the first man to reach and by the time of his death in 1956, the Today, Key West is known for having the boat became the “wreck master,” who house had fallen into ruin. one of the most colorful and well-pro- — after saving the crew and passengers, Slated for demolition, it was saved in tected historical districts in the United if possible — directed the salvaging of 1958 by Mitchell and Frances Wolfson, States, with the highest density of histor- the ship and its cargo. Back on land, the who were compelled to purchase the ic frame buildings in the nation. Yet few The Audubon House recovered haul was auctioned off, with property after hearing it was destined to who visit know that it was the Wolfsons’ >> Location: 205 Whitehead St. the wreck master taking the largest cut become a gas station. The Wolfsons had renovation of the Audubon House that >> Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. of the profits. It was a dangerous, highly heard the same folklore that speculated began this now-priceless movement to >> Tickets: The museum offers discounted competitive and regulated industry, the James Audubon might have conceived protect and preserve the island’s oldest museum tickets to locals. spoils of which helped solidify Key West many of his bird portraits during a visit architecture. >> Contact: For more information, call 305- as the richest city in the country by the to the gardens of Dr. Benjamin Strobel, To this day, the property is cared for 294-2116 or visit www.audubonhouse.com. mid-1800s. whose home was located on the property through the Mitchell Wolfson Trust, and

Summer of $18 Steak Frites 8 oz Ribeye, Hand Cut Fries, House Made Steak Sauce CURATING YOUR WAY OF LIFE Shrimp & Grits THROUGH New Orleans BBQ, Key DESIGN, FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES West Pinks, Cheesy Grits FOR THE HOME & GARDEN Parmesan Encrusted Salon Dijon Cream OFF SEASON HOURS: Mediterranean Chicken WEDNESDAY 10AM TO 3PM Tomato, Kalamata, Pepperoncini & Goat THURSDAY - SATURDAY 10AM TO 5PM Cheese Salad, Kale & Quinoa AND HAPPILY BY APPT Steak Nicoise Salad Chilled New Potatoes, Green Beans, Hard Egg, Kalamata Olives, Tomatoes IN THE HEART OF STOCK ISLAND 5700 4th Avenue Seafood Penne R at Chico’s, R at Fishbusters Shrimp, Scallops, Local Fish, Roasted Block and a half on your L Tomato Cream Sauce

305.916.5042 305.295.1300 532 Margaret Street, SOULHOUSEKEYWEST.COM Key West, FL 33040 Open Daily 5:30pm

MENU & RESERVATIONS MICHAELSKEYWEST.COM A16 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Key West HAPPY HOUR GUIDE brought to you by: CRAZY LADY Brewed in KeyWest, HONEYHO BLONDE ALE ThisThT i blonde ale brewed with local honey is good as it gets. A ninniceicec clean ale with a subtle honey-like sweetness that lingers Drank ! jujustustst long enough. Very drinkable and smooth. A perfect beer in theKeys frffromromom Key West, brewed at The Waterfront Brewery.

Alonzo’s Half-price wine, cocktails and beer Stock Island Sunset Tiki Bar at 700 Front St. Half-price appetizers Salty Oyster Dockside Bar and Grill the Galleon Resort 4-6:30 p.m. www.grandcafekeywest.com 4-6 p.m. daily 617 Front St. Half-price appetizers Half Shell Raw Bar Half off all food and premium drinks 10 a.m.-noon (except Sundays) www.alonzoysterbar.com 231 Margaret St. Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen and Bar 2-for-1 Bloody Marys Aqua 4:30-6:30 p.m. 6-8 p.m. daily 4-7 p.m. daily 711 Duval St. 2-for-1 drink specials $3 drafts, $6 cocktails and wine, 2-for-1 margaritas or well drinks 2-6 p.m. Special happy hour food menu $2 oysters, $5 appetizers and crudo www.Galleonresort.como t.co $5 well drinks, $3.75 domestic beers www.Halfshellrawbar.comrawbar.c www.perrykeywest.com Tattoos and Scars www.aquakeywest.com Hard Rock Café Pinchers Crab Shack 512 Greene St. Bagatelle 313 Duval St. 712 Duval St. Stella on draft $44 aalllll ddayay 115 Duval St. 5-7 and 10 to closingosing 3-6 p.m. www.Tattoosandscarssaloon.com 4-6 p.m. Half-price appetizers and drinks Oysters, clams, shrimp, wings Tiki House Half-price drinks www.hardrockcafe/keywesty 99 cents each 430 Greene St. $5 appetizers Hogfish Bar and Grill www.Pinchersusa.com 4-6 p.m. www.Bagatellekeywest.com 6810 Front Street The Roost 2-for-1 wells, drafts and Zombies Blackfin 4-6 p.m. 508 Fleming St. www.tikihousekw.com 918 Duval St. Drink specials and special happy 3-6 p.m. Turtle Kraals 4:30-6:30 p.m. hour menu $10 Stoli Elite Martinis 231 Margaret St. $7 menu www.Hogfishbar.comar.com Roostica Pizzeria 4:30-6:30 p.m. www.blackfinbistro.com Island Dogs Bar 5620 MacDonald Ave. Half off bottled beers, well drinks Blue Macaw Island Eats and Bar 505 Front St. 4-6 p.m. and house wines 804 Whitehead St. 4-6:30 p.m. Monday-Fridaynda Fr Drink specials and special happy Special happy hour menu Every day with live music Half-price well drinks, bottled beer hour menu www.Turtlekraals.com 4-7 p.m. and wine by the glass www.Roostica.com Two Friends Patio Restaurant $3 well drinks, domestic beers and Half-price oysters, special $5.95 menu Sand Bar Sports Grill 512 Front St. house wines www.Islanddogsbar.com 511 Greene St. 4-6 p.m. www.Bluemacawkeywest.com Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar and Check the website for dailydil specials Early bird dinner specials Boathouse Bar and Grill Restaurant Sandbarkeywest.com www.Twofriendskw.com 400 Greene St., #408 320 Grinnell Street www.Sand Bar Sports Grill Key West Vinos on Duval 4-6 p.m. 4-7 p.m. on Facebook 810 Duval Half-price well drinks and beers Half-off appetizers, $3 well drinks, Santiago’s Bodega 4-7 p.m. www.Boathousebarandgrill.com draft beer and house wine 207 Petronia St. $5 sangria Bobby’s Monkey Bar www.Keywest.lucysretired 3-6 p.m. Sundays Noon-8 p.m. surfers.com Half-price drinks $5 mimosas $3 well drinks Martin’s $5 tapas www.Vinosonduval.comduval.co $2.50 domestic beers 917 Duval www.Santiagosbodega.comg Viva Saloon $3 imports 4-6 p.m. Sidebar at Aqua 903 Duval St. $2 Pringles and $2 Slim JJims Half-price drinks and tapas 504 Angela St. 4-6 p.m. Conch Republic Seafood www.Martinskeywest.com 4-8 p.m. $3 well drinks, $1 off all beer 631 Greene St. Mary Ellen’s Bar $5 well drinks, $3.75 domestic beers and house wine, $5 appetizers 4-7 p.m. 420 Appelrouth Lane 9 p.m.-close, Monday, Tuesday, www.Vivakeywest.com 2-for-1 drink specials 3-6 p.m. Wednesday, drink specials The Waterfront Brewery www.Conchrepublicseafood.com 2-for-1 wells and drafts, $5 Jameson, www.sidebarkeywest.com 201 William St. Dante’s $5 Titos Southernmost Beach Café 4-6:30 p.m. daily 951 Caroline St. www.maryellensbar.comom 1405 Duval St. All Waterfront Brewery beer Monday through Friday Mellow Ventures Café Sunday-Thursday and wines by the glass half off. 4-8 p.m. and Gastropub $5 small bites bar men, $5 draft beer, www.thewaterfrontbrewery.com Half off domestic beers and well 1605 North Roosevelt Blvd.Blvd house wine, well drinks and house Willie T’s Restaurant and Bar drinks 5-7 p.m. margaritas www.Southernmost 525 Duval St. $3.50 Jagermeister and Fireball Half-off starters beachcafe.com 4-7 p.m. $4 Jameson 2-for-1 draft beer, wine, sangria Square Grouper Bar and Grill Daily drink specials www.Danteskeywest.com and mimosas and My New Joint Upstairs. www.Williets.com Geiger Key Marinaa www.mellowventureskeywest.com 22658 Overseas Highway, CudjoejK Key Wine-O at La Concha Hotel 5 Geiger Road Old Town Mexican Café Square Grouper 430 Duval St. 4-6 p.m. 609 Duval St. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Tuesday through Daily Drink specials and special happy 4 -7 p.m. Saturday Buy one, get one free on selected hour menu Half-price appetizers Lunch Specials and $7 well drinks glasses of wine www.Geigerkeymarina.com Half-price beer, wine and well drinks My New Joint www.Laconchakeywest.com Green Parrot Bar Pepe’s 4:30-6:30 p.m. Yellowfin Bar and Grill 601 Whitehead St. 806 Caroline St. 25 percent off bottled and Oceans Edge Resort and Marina 4-7 p.m. Monday-Thursdayhursday 4-6 p.m. canned beers 5950 Peninsular Ave. 4-5:30 p.m. Fridays Half-price raw and baked oysters $1 off draft beer and wine by the glass 4:30-6:30 p.m. Discounts on selected drinks $5 fresh-squeezed Margaritas $6 cocktail specials daily Appetizer specials and beers Discounted well drinks, beer Happy hour menu and $1 off beer and wine, $2 off specialty www.Greenparrot.com and wine late-night menu cocktails, $6 well drinks www.Pepeskeywest.com Check the websites for details www.oceansedgekeywest.com/ The Grand www.Squaregroupbarandgrill.com hotel/yellowfin-bar-and-grill ■ 314 Duval St. The Perry Hotel www.Mynewjoint420lounge.com 5-7:30 p.m. 7001 Shrimp Road

At Our Medical Spa or at Your Location! Replenish. Rejuvinate. Revive. ivsinthekeys.coms531 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040s 305-395-8245 FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A17 MUSIC SCENE Michael Festa’s cookin’ up something new

BY BUCKY MONTGOMERY and writing even more. “When I take a Florida Weekly Correspondent night off, I like to walk around town and do my own bar tour and go see everyone “I’m one of those rare cases. I came to else that’s playing.” Festa stays busy with Key West with a job, a place to stay and a flexible rotating schedule of gigs at the friends,” Michael Festa said before going Bull and Whistle Bar on the corner of on stage at Willie T’s. “I came down Duval and Caroline streets, the Green originally to be a chef.” At the time, he Room on the corner of Duval and Greene was working as the general manager for streets, Duval Central at 203 Duval St. the Finnegan’s Wake in Pittsburgh (where and at the hip and trendy Cali-Mexican he was born and raised), playing music joint Sinz Burritos. His band also plays “sporadically, more as a hobby,” when regularly at the Bull and Whistle, Duval Derek Menard, a friend who had worked Central and at the open aired hideaway for him there, contacted him on Myspace Virgilio’s just off of Applerouth Lane. and told him he should move down to That’s a lot of work for someone who work for him here. “I went to school with didn’t move to the island to play music. his wife, Robin Whelpley.” Derek, a chef, Festa’s influences include Dave Mat- and Robin, a musician, ended up getting thews and Les Claypool. If marooned married and moved back to Pittsburgh on a deserted island the one CD that he with their daughter, Millie. Festa, how- would bring with him would be Sublime’s ever, stayed in Key West. His first job was self-titled album, but he quotes his father at Santiago’s Bodega, where he worked as his biggest role model when it comes for a year-and-a-half. to music. “I helped open Black Fin after that. I Festa has played for audiences of two did some open mics, sat in with some to up to 2,000 people. One of the high- people. I didn’t even bring my guitar with eight. They’ve recorded an all-original These days, Jettison Theory includes lights of his musical career was opening me when I moved here.” CD, played up the coast to Boston, played Festa on guitar and vocals, Richard Vier for Seven Mary Three in Pittsburgh. “We Eventually, he started playing more, the Green Parrot, Hogs Breath and many on strat guitar, Bubba Low Notes on felt like rock stars, smoking and chilling finally landing a steady gig at Bobalu’s other Key West venues, Looe Key Tiki standup bass and Drew Gordon on trum- with the band.” They were even asked for Pizza on Southard Street (where Charlie Bar, and the Hurricane Grill in Mara- pet. Clearly, putting a band together is autographs. Mac’s is currently). After getting more thon. One of their compositions, “Home” not as easy as it sounds and Festa has put “The best thing about living and work- and more jobs playing music, he finally appears on the compilation CD “The Best a lot of hard work into developing and ing in Key West is the weather and the retired from the restaurant biz to pursue of Key West, Volume One,” along with 17 maintaining a bond with his bandmates. people. The art that’s here in all forms. music full time. other songs by popular Key West musi- “It was a long process,” he explained. “We There is so much talent concentrated in Teaming up with Joshua Warren and cians/bands. “We’ve been through some focused on getting away from the clas- this little town.” Mark Morales, he formed the band Fon- bass players, Josh (Warren), ‘Wavy’ Dave sic ’90s rock, doing more original, more You can follow Michael Festa and his zarelli, which eventually became Jetti- Parkhurst, Steve Merkel, Steven Martin experimental, more electronic.” band on Facebook by following Jettison son Theory, which up until now has Jr., Jack Chiniski and Ian Barber for a little Festa says he’s writing a lot, and when Theoryband. ■ had a good seven-year run going on while.” he’s not working, he’s smoking a little

Where the unique waterfront shops and breath-taking sunsets come together.

Join us for a shopping and dining experience like no other at the Sunset Waterfront Shoppes, located at the waters edge behind the Margaritaville Key West Resort and Marina.

-LIVE MUSIC- KRISTIN MCNAMARA EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY 6:30pm to 9:30pm

ONE HOUR FREE PARKING VOUCHER WITH PURCHASE 245 Front Street (Corner of Front & Green Streets) Behind the Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina www.sunsetshoppeskeywest.com

FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A19 CAUGHT IN KEY WEST THIS WEEK

■ Wild Bill Charters: ■ Mellow Ventures: ■ Gulfstream Fishing Key West: Smiles all round for this nice barracuda. Fishing, spearfishing and lobstering. These are our future fishermen! We love our If fishing the shallow water wrecks, little guys. — Capt. Artie Duplessis calm backcountry channels or protected 1801 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West — Gulfstream Fishing Key West mangrove islands appeals to you, come join 305-744-7957 1801 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West us for a mellow day on the water. www.wildbillkeywest.com 305-296-8494 — Mellow Ventures Backcountry Outfitters www.gulfstreamkeywest.com 1605 N. Roosevelt Blvd. 305-745-3874 www.mellowventureskeywest.com/

■ Key West Florida Fishing: ■ Capt. Kyle Fortney:Fortney ■ Fishbusterz Retail Seafood Market: This is the view from the bridge of our new Georgia girls and their nice grouper. Fresh local Florida lobster $23.99 pound. ship, the “Blind Squirrel.” This new 63-foot beast will be for larger charters and multi- — Capt. Kyle Fortney — 6406 Maloney Ave., Key West day fishing charters to the Dry Tortugas. 305-928-0269 305-294-6456 www.FishCaptEddie.com www.keywestseafooddepot.com — Capt. Mike Weinhoffer At Hogfish Bar and Grill 305-395-3474 www.keywestfloridafishing.com

An Old Florida Fish Camp... THE REAL OLD KEY WEST... the way the Keys used to be. Located at the Historic Shrimp Docks

Bring your boat and catch to our restaurant! Voted one of the Best Seafood Dives in America! We’ll cook your catch! Step back in time and experience the way the Florida Keys used to be–fresh seafood, strong drinks, World famous! panoramic waterfront views, outdoor 305-296-4999 dining and plenty of local characters. 5 Geigeriger RRoadoad ʠ KeyKey WWest,est FFLL 305-294-1230 5620 Macdonald Ave, Key West,FL www.roostica.com 305-293-4041 t www.hogfishbar.com www.geigerkeymarina.com 6810 Front St., Stock Island, FL A20 WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST GALLERY GUIDE

For a comprehensive guide and map to Key West’s finest art galleries, visit www.keysarts.com/artist_connections/ gallery_guide.pdf. SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK De La Gallery 419 Duval St. The photography of Jorge de la Torriente Ongoing www.delagallery.com 305-395-2210 Key West Art and Historical Society Custom House 281 Front St. Key Energy Services: Powering the Keys for 75 Years Ongoing www.kwahs.org The Gallery on Greene 606 Greene St. Peter Vey Ongoing www.galleryongreene.com 305-294-1669

JORGE DE LA TORRIENTE DE LA GALLERY / COURTESY PHOTOS Top right: “8-6-4-2” Right: “End of the Pier”

CONGRATULATIONS to MABEL POBLET for her solo exhibit BUOYANCY at Galeria Habana with works at The Gallery On Greene.

606 GREENE STREET - KEY WEST, FLORIDA, USA 305.294.1669 | FAX 305.294.7747 [email protected] www.galleryongreene.com FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018 A21 KEY WEST GALLERY GUIDE

JORGE DE LA TORRIENTE / DE LA GALLERY / COURTESY PHOTOS “Beach Confetti” SALT Gallery 830 Fleming St. Kreg Kelley Ongoing www.saltislandprovisions.com 305-517-6088 ■

COURTESY PHOTOS Paintings by Peter Vey can be seen in an ongoing exhibit at The Gallery On Greene

AMSTERDAM’S Curry Mansion Inn A Historic Bed & Breakfast with a daily cocktail party and a nightly happy hour. Located half a block from Duval Street with renowned restaurants, legendary bars, live music, theater and shopping.

Self-Guided Tours Daily 8:30AM to 5:00PM (Adults: $5.00 donation, Children under 12 are free. $OOSURFHHGVEHQHÀWWKH)ORULGD.H\V63&$ House tours available for non guests 28 Unique Rooms To Choose From All Inclusive Price With Room & Breakfast &$52/,1(67‡.(<:(67 (305) 294-5349 www.currymansion.com KEY WEST FLORIDA WEEKLY REAL ESTATE

A22 | WWW.FLORIDAWEEKLY.COM WEEK OF AUGUST 16-22, 2018

A lovely hidden oasis 1309 Villa Mill Alley — $2,295,000

This enchanting five-bedroom, four- bathroom home nestled on a quiet street just two blocks to beaches offers the best of indoor-outdoor living. There are two master suites, one upstairs and one downstairs. Ceilings soar above gor- geous living spaces that include a formal dining room and a den with a separate outside entrance that would make a per- fect home office. Pine floors, plantation shutters and a fireplace all enhance the delightfully homey inside ambiance. The property is enclosed by a new privacy fence and is a truly hidden oasis where beautiful lush gardens surround a heated pool and Jacuzzi, creating a fabu- lous tropical outdoor setting. A perfect home for entertaining, it’s in the X flood zone and includes two off-street parking spots. ■

Contact: Truman and Company Real Estate 305-292-2244 or [email protected] www.trumanandcompany.com COURTESY PHOTOS COURTESY We manage over 90 properties in Key West with a variety of programs that can be customized to meet your needs. Whether your property requires a single monthly THE HOME TEAM ADVANTAGE visit or is used as an investment to generate rental income, our personable staff is available to provide the services required to ensure your home is well cared for and successful in your absence.

REAL ESTATE SALES

LUXURY VACATION RENTALS

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT NEW LISTING | 617 SIMONTON STREET | $1,250,000 LONG TERM RENTALS

NEW LISTING | 24 JADE DRIVE #6 | $579,000 FOR SALE!

Situated in the prestigious waterfront community of 3841 N. Beachside, the finest resort community in Key West, Roosevelt enjoy the versatility of a 2BD/2.5BA, type A floor plan with Unit 421 lockout & 2 transient licenses for optimal rental potential. The finest amenities including designer furniture package $999,000 grace this 2nd floor luxury condominium situated in building 4 with a pool & courtyard view. Beautifully appointed with gourmet kitchen overlooking comfortable living room & spacious covered balcony.

SOLD! | 742 WINDSOR LANE | $900,000

FOR SALE!

Private 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom cottage in The Meadows 1415 Olivia updated by a modern renovation with first floor master. Street Features an open floor plan, handsome wood floors, (305) 587-3407 vaulted ceiling, a striking kitchen w/stainless appliances, $899,000 gray quartz counters and custom cabinetry. Both en [email protected] suite baths are beautifully tiled offer luxury fixtures and www.keywesthometeam.com sleek, hidden storage. Spiral staircase to guest suite with viewing balcony backyard surrounded by lush tropical 1205 Truman Ave. | Key West | FL 33040 plants. LIVE SUNSETS

Exquisite Sunset Key Home Offered at $4,750,000

Islamorada Office: Marathon Office: Key West Office: 81888 Overseas Highway 12240 Overseas Highway 420 Fleming Street Islamorada, FL 33036 Marathon, FL 33050 Key West, FL 33040 305.712.8888 305.204.4935 305.294.1117

OceanSIR.com Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.