WEEKWEEK OF DECEMBERDDECEMBER 5-11, 20192019 www.FloridaWeekly.comwww.FloridaWeekly.com Vol. 4, No. 36 • FREE
INSIDE: A guide to COAST Fest. A10 Comedy Paula Poundstone is returning to Key West and, oh yeah, she started out bussing tables. COAST A14 The third annual Billy COAST is Clear Music Kearins brings art & Arts Festival and Rayland Baxter to Real estate Legendary Casa Marina Key West home at 1501 Grinnell St. for $2,750,000. A17 BY KEVIN ASSAM Florida Weekly Correspondent
illyilly KKearinsearir nsn iiss absolutelyaba b sos o luu tee lyl notnnot a seself-lfl - B proclaimedprp oco laaimeedd beardbeard aafaficio-fiicio- nado.nnadoo. HHe iis,s, hohowever,wevev rr, as off 2012,2012, the fofounderunnded r off CCoastoao sst PProj-roj- ecectstst (COAST).(COOASST)). WhatWWhat ststartedarted asa an exexperi-peerir - mmementalnttala aartistrttist cocollectivellecctivee flfflourishedouurir shshed iintontn o a lifelifestylesttyly e brbrandannd andana d concertconcncerrt pro-proo- momotingtingn ooutfit.uttfitt. OOnn ththehe eveevee Local Focus off hhisiss tthirdhih rdr annuaannuall COCOASTASA T Iss Dyan Gonsalves has Island ClCCleareae r MuMusicsiic & ArArtsts FFestivalesesttival — DeDec.ec.c Style. A6 5-55-7-7 in BBahamaahhamma ViVVillagelllaga e — BiBillylllly eexexploresplloro ess hhisiss sstranger-trt anangerr- thtthan-any-fictionhan-aany-f- ictiiono ppathaath ttoo ddevelopingevvelopo inng hihhiss brbbrand,ana d,d ttheheh Billy Kearins, founder of the COAST is Clear Music & Arts Festival. COURTESY PHOTO SEE COAST, A10 Celebrating the holidays in Key West
BY LAURA RICHARDSON associated with the winter season. laura.richardson@fl oridaweekly.com That’s not to say life on the island is always easy breezy. The truth is, those of Year-round balmy temps, palm trees and us lucky enough to call paradise home have sandy beaches may not exactly scream “holi- our share of holiday stressors (even tropical The Lakes day season,” but while our friends up north island-dwellers have in-laws and get agita A step into Caribbean utopia. are dreaming of sugarplums and freezing over sourcing the perfect gifts), but they pale A7 their bundled up behinds off, we here in the in comparison to what our friends on the Florida Keys will be celebrating the season mainland have to suffer through each year. our way – with Conch Train Christmas tours Having to scrape iguana poop off your conch Download (which are basically just an excuse to ooh cruiser (that’s Key West slang for a bicycle) and aah over Christmas light displays while is no picnic, but it sure beats having to scrape our FREE we get sloshed on a trolley and make up off three feet of icy shards from your Arctic App today dirty words to Bing Crosby’s greatest holiday incubator of a vehicle. So, if you’re fortunate Available on hits) and parades and parties galore, sans the enough to be joining us for the holidays this COURTESY PHOTO the iTunes and Get photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the winter coats and frigid weather generally SEE HOLIDAYS, A12 Android App Store. Custom House Holiday Bazaar. A2 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST
Editor OFF OFF DUVAL Laura Richardson The most traveled and visible street old boutique bookstore offers a surpris- [email protected] in Key West is only the beginning, the ingly varied wealth of current and used Publisher surface, of what the town has to offer. titles, from bestsellers to rare titles. Niall Geoghegan Ask locals about their favorite spots or Often open late, it’s an inviting place to [email protected] stroll through quiet neighborhoods and browse the crowded stacks. down alleyways off Duval, and you’ll Account Executive begin to dive deeper into the quieter, La Rubia Panama Hats, 510 Flem- Evan Schaffer more diverse and less readily apparent ing St. and 291 Front St., 305-296- [email protected] offerings. Here are eight spots you might 6059; www.larubiakeywest.com. not see at first glance. This is the Florida Keys’ only importer Reporters of authentic Panama hats. The owner Kevin Assam • Shaun Corcoran Better than Sex, 926 Simonton developed the boutiques to help per- Gwen Filosa • Jennifer Potter St. 305-296-8102; www.betterthan- COURTESY PHOTO petuate the centuries-old tradition of sexkeywest.com. A great place for La Rubia Panama Hats is the Florida Keys’ hand weaving hats (which come from Presentation Editor couples. Swing by this dessert-only, only importer of authentic Panama hats. Ecuador, not Panama, by the way). Styles Eric Raddatz adults-only restaurant late in the eve- for both men and women come in a wide [email protected] ning. Indulge your senses with choc- Cuban Coffee Queen, 284 Marga- array of shapes, colors and weaves all olate-dipped wine glasses and cheeky, ret St. 305-292-4747; www.cubancof- the way up to the coveted Montecristi. Production Manager homemade desserts and beverages such feequeen.com. The strong Cuban cof- There is also a nice selection of other Alisa Bowman as an Ephemere Apple Spiced Ale in a fee at this hole in the wall is also rich fair trade wearable items. [email protected] tall beer glass with a signature caramel in Key West heritage. A café con leche Graphic Designers rim-job. Lick it good. paired with a classic Cuban sandwich or Little Pearl, 632 Olivia St. 305-204- some Havana rice and beans will keep 4762; www.littlepearlkeywest.com. Chris Andruskiewicz • Emma Campos Mellow Café and Gastro Pub, 1605 you going long into a Key West night. Nestled in the heart of Old Town Key Paul Heinrich • Scott Sleeper Roosevelt Blvd. 305-745-3874; www. West and away from the bustling down- Circulation Manager mellowventureskeywesst.com. Near Firefly, 223 Petronia St. 305-849- town streets, this is an excellent spot for Tara Rosheim the water in Old Town Key West, the 0104; www.fireflykeywest.com. fresh local catch and innovative cuisine [email protected] café is open for breakfast, lunch and Being that Key West is home to the with a tropical twist. It’s new, and it’s dinner and offers unique island fare southernmost point of the continental hot. Reservations are required. Sales and Marketing Assistant with a mellow atmosphere to match. United States, it’s fitting that the island Alea Feeley The menu items are crafted with fresh, is also home to a Southern-inspired res- Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden, Operations Manager locally sourced ingredients and include taurant. Firefly’s plantation-style look 518 Elizabeth St. 305-294-0015; www. Kelli Carico a fresh catch, Havana roasted pork, and its menu give it the most down- nancyforrester.com. Ms. Forrester has romaine leaf plates and caramelized home feel of any culinary experience on a secret, and it’s not her garden, per Published by banana chocolate tacos. Drink options the island. The shrimp and grits, fried se: It’s what she keeps there. The long- Florida Media Group LLC include a large selection of craft beers, chicken and bacon-wrapped meatloaf time environmentalist has been caring 100 Grinnell Street • Key West, FL 33040 11 rotating tap beers, wine, house-made are a few fan favorites. for orphaned parrots for more than 30 305.363.1310 sangria and champagne cocktails. years. She welcomes visitors to meet There’s a great happy hour from 5-7 p.m. Key West Island Bookstore, 513 them, take pictures, hold them and listen www.FloridaWeekly.com daily, and delivery is available. Fleming St. 305-294-2904; www.Key- as she shares her knowledge about her westislandbooks.com. This decades- fine feathered friends. ■ Copyright: The contents of the Florida Weekly are copyright 2019 by Florida Media Group, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without the express written consent of Florida Media Group, LLC.
Start The Season with the Holiday PARTY on Friday, Dec. 6th!
Join Us! For special offerings like book signings, jewelry trunk shows, tastings, treats, sweet savings & libations–on 1st Fridays, MONTHLY! Some of the MANY Participating Businesses Include: tćF3PPTU#BS-JRVPS4UPSF t4FB4UPSF"OUJRVFT t-B3VCJB1BOBNB)BUT tćJSTUZ.FSNBJE3BX#BS t,FZ8FTU*TMBOE#PPLT t'BVTUPT'PPE1BMBDF t,FZ8FTU-PDBM-VYF+FXFMSZ t*TMBOE"OUJRVFT t-B1FUJUF(SJHOPUF'SFODI#BLFSZ t+FBO1JFSSF,MJGB3FTPSUXFBS t$MFNFUFT8PPE'JSF1J[[BSJB t%VDL%PMQIJO"OUJRVFT t"NBOEB+PIOTPO'JOF"SU t .PSF/FJHICPSJOH#VTJOFTTFT *Check ‘The Fabulous 500 Block of Fleming’ on Facebook, for an updated list PLUS 1st Friday & on-going specials, savings & events!
All the businesses of the Fabulous 500 Block are LOCALLY OWNED. THERE’S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA!
Now Round Only Trip!*
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 1-800-593-7259 art and music festivals of the historic River District, keywestexpress.net the eclectic culture of Fort Myers Beach and world- class shopping throughout Fort Myers and Naples.
*LIMITED TIME HOLIDAY VOUCHER SALE; WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. Non-refundable, non-discountable, cannot be combined with other offers. Valid for travel two year period January 1st, 2020 through December 31st, 2021. A4 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST MAP IT OUT
Getting around Key West
1. Southernmost Point 5. Truman Little White House 8. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum 11. Audubon House and Garden The corner of South and 111 Front St. 200 Greene St. 205 Whitehead St. Whitehead streets www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com 305-294-2633 305-294-2116 www.Audubonhouse.com www.southernmostpointwebcam.com The Little White House adds a presi- www.melfisher.org The city of Key West erected this con- Original lithographs by John James dential luster to the Conch Republic. Orig- Exhibits include treasures from the crete buoy in 1983 to denote the south- Audubon are on display in this former Spanish galleons of 1622 discovered by ernmost point in the continential United inally built for Naval officers in 1890 and home of shipwreck salvager Capt. John States. used as a command headquarters in three Mel Fisher and his crew. Geiger. wars, the Little White House later served 9. Mile Marker 0 Sign 2. Conch Tour Train as lodging for President Harry S. Truman’s 12. Key West City Cemetery 303 Front St. 490 Whitehead St. (corner Bordered by Angela, Frances and winter retreats from 1946 to 1952. 305-294-5161 or 888-916-8687 of Fleming Street) Olivia streets and Windsor Lane 305-292-6718 www.conchtourtrain.com 6. The Ernest Hemingway U.S. 1 begins here in Key West and The iconic train has been winding its continues 2,369 miles north up the East www.historicfloridakeys.org Home & Museum way through the streets of Key West since Coast before ending in Fort Kent, Me. Stop by the sexton’s office near the 907 Whitehead St. 1958. Stop here to commemorate your visit to entrance at Passover and Windsor lanes 305-294-1136 and pick up a map that includes a free Key West with a photo next to the iconic 3. Sloppy Joe’s www.hemingwayhome.com walking tour. Mile Marker 0 sign. 201 Duval St. Take the tour and say hello to one of 305-294-5717 13. Fort Zachary Taylor the 40-50 six-toed cats, all descendants of www.sloppyjoes.com 10. Key West Express Ferry State Park and Beach A Key West tradition since 1933, this Hemingway’s cat, Snowball. Terminal At the ocean end of Southard Street bar’s famous patrons include Ernest Hem- 100 Grinnell St. and bordering the Naval Reservation. 7. The Key West Butterfly mingway and rum runner Habana Joe. 239-463-5733 305-295-0037 & Nature Conservatory www.Keywestexpress.net www.Fortzacharytaylor.com 4. Mallory Square Sunset 1316 Duval St. Traveling via the Express is truly the “Fort Zach” is known to locals and Celebration 305-296-2988 or 800-839-4647 best way to get between Key West, Fort tourists alike as one of Key West’s best 1 Whitehead St. www.keywestbutterfly.com Myers Beach or Marco Island. You’ll enjoy beaches. In addition to the expansive 786-565-7448 beach, the 54-acre park has nature trails, More than 50 butterfly species from air-conditioned interiors, exterior sun www.sunsetcelebration.org bike paths, picnic tables and grills and around the world and 20 exotic bird spe- This nightly festival begins at water’s decks, couches, tables and even reclining Historic Fort Zachary Taylor. Enjoy the edge an hour or two before sunset and cies coexist in this climate-controlled, airline-style seating. There’s a full-service beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and includes street performers, local artisans, glass-enclosed habitat that includes galley, full-service bar and flat-screen TVs the Key West Shipping Channel. ■ food carts, palmists and psychics. waterfalls, flowering plants and trees. with satellite television. KEY WEST The Stoned Crab
EVERYBODY MUST GET STONED. i About the Restaurant There is nothing like The Stoned Crab in Key West. Colorful bayside atmosphere paired with what visitors want to eat when they take an island vacation: FRESH LOCAL SEAFOOD. Not only is it what visitors want, it’s what locals appreciate. This is a restaurant that supports local commercial fishermen by purchasing directly from them through the Three Hands Fish Market located adjacent to The Stoned Crab on the same resort grounds of Ibis Bay. Their impeccably fresh and succulent namesake menu item, stone crab, is available warm or chilled. And if you’ve never had hot steamed stone crab, you’re missing out. Guests are also wowed by the Seafood Towers that arrive at their tables upon request… tiers of mixed seafood items ranging from raw oysters on the half shell to calamari to crab are perfect for sharing. The Stoned Crab swears by and carries out the concept of “dock to dish” and it’s seafood is Certified Local. Owner Chris Holland is proud to implement this key principal which not only benefits the local fishing industry but also provides the absolute best quality seafood to his customers. hFeatured Dish SEAFOOD PAELLA FOR TWO OR FOUR Includes shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, smoked Spanish sausage and chicken. Requires 30 minutes.
A LOCAL’S REVIEW... SHARK FEEDING DAILY on the restaurant dock As a Concierge Manager for Key West Concierge, I get invited to many different restaurants and it at 1:00pm, 5:00pm & 8:00pm takes a lot to surprise me. Last Tuesday myself and my team were invited to dine at the Stoned Crab. I was pleasantly surprised by the experience. The food was excellent and fresh. Chris, the owner, was a charming and informative host. He told us about their fresh catch to table approach and it was evident in the lobster, stoned crab, snapper and shrimp we were served. This was accompanied by corn on the cob, potato and a variety of veggies. Chris took our group over to the shark feeding spot where their resident nurse sharks are fed 5 times a day. This was such a treat to see them up close and used to the human interaction. I would gladly recommend this restaurant and shark feeding experience to anyone looking for fresh seafood and an experience they won’t forget. i Lorraine Jacobs Concierge Manager at Key West Concierge
LOCAL FISHERMAN PLATES OUR MOST POPULAR STEAMERS PERFECT PASTA FRIED LOCAL FISH Enamelled Steel Pots full of Steaming Shellfish, Create Your Perfect Fettuccine Dish & PINK SHRIMP Corn on the Cob, Potatoes and Butter. #1 CHOOSE YOUR FAVORITE: Grilled Local Fish & Pink Shrimp OLD BAY STEAMER Pink Shrimp, Pink Shrimp and Florida Lobster Mix, Chicken, Florida Lobster CERTIFIED LOCAL FISH Stone Crab, Snow Crab & Key West Pink Shrimp ZANES’S FRESH LOCAL FISH #2 CHOOSE YOUR SAUCE: KEY WEST LOBSTER STEAMER Alfredo, Scampi or Marina Sauce Grilled, Blackened or Fried Half Key West Lobster, Snow Crab & Key West LOBSTER BUILD YOUR OWN STEAMER Pink Shrimp Bake Half Key West Lobster Enamelled Steel Pots full of Steaming Shellfish, SURF AND TURF STEAMER Corn on the Cob, Potatoes and Butter. Angus Prime Rib, Whole Florida Lobster SEAFOOD PAELLA #1 CHOOSE YOUR CATCH and Snow Crab For Two or Four. Includes shrimp, mussels, clams, squid, smoked Spanish sausage and chicken Stone Crab Claws, Mussels & Clams, SEAFOOD TOWERS Requires 30 minutes Key West Pink Shrimp, Snow Crab, Half Key The Most Spectacular Presentation NOT SEAFOOD West Lobster, Zane’s Fresh Catch, Prime Rib for our Seafood REDLAND VEGETABLE FETTUCCINE #2 CHOOSE YOUR SAUCE The Big Heat Tower* - Large and Crazy The Big Chill Tower* - Large and Crazy Alfredo, Scampi or Marina Sauce Key Lime Butter & Garlic Sauce, Spicy Marinara MARY ROSE CHICKEN & GRITS Sauce or Old Bay & Draft Beer Sauce LOCAL PINK SHRIMP Chicken Breast on the Bone with our own corn #3 CHOOSE YOUR BEST PICTURE KEY WEST SHRIMP & GRITS bread and Florida hand-ground hominy grits. Share a pic of your brilliance on our Garlic or Blackened with Florida hand-ground ANGUS PRIME RIB hominy grits. Facebook or yours. Certified Angus Prime Rib with sides XXXTUPOFEDSBCDPNt/3PPTFWFMU#MWE ,FZ8FTU '- Info & Reservations 305-433-9431 or email: [email protected] HOURS: OPEN DAILY FROM 10:00AM TO 11:00PM A6 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST LOCAL FOCUS Dyan Gonsalves has Island Style
BY JENNIFER POTTER The store is also home to wearable Florida Weekly Correspondent art by artists such as Judy Lichenstein (yes, she’s a relative to famous artist Roy Have you ever walked into a store and Lichtenstein), island lifestyle brand Jamz thought, “Take all my money while I take World, custom glass-blown chandeliers, one of everything?” That’s exactly how and one of the only children’s depart- you’ll feel after setting foot into Island ments on the island, which sells books, Style in Key West. The colorful tropical adorable onesies and (of course) chicken boutique and fine art gallery located at 512 and aquatic plush toys. Duval St. is home to an array of eclectic “I love the fact that I get the opportu- pieces of art made by local artists as well nity to go to buying shows and work so as a variety of upscale, handmade, one- closely with the artists to create pieces of-a-kind items created by Caribbean- that are exclusive to Island Style,” Dyan inspired artists. COURTESY PHOTOS says. “Art doesn’t have to be serious.” With two locations in Florida, it’s no Island Style is full of unique, colorful gifts. People are usually intimidated by fine art wonder Island Style has become a staple galleries, but there’s something special for both residents and visitors alike look- of buying for a small boutique, so I had about this space that is both inviting and ing to add a hint of island flavor to their some buying experience under my belt. I welcoming. decor or looking for that perfect gift to have a minor in art and a passion for the When she’s not busy serving up island give. The Sanibel Island location has been tropics and the Caribbean lifestyle, so I While you decide how you’re going to style, Dyan is usually island hopping with in business for roughly 43 years and the knew I wanted to incorporate that into my carry everything home — because trust her husband to their Sanibel Island loca- Key West location for 23 years. space. I had a special place for Key West me, you will want to take it all — you tion or to her home away from home in Owned by former elementary school since my early days in high school and I can’t help but feel happy surrounded by Nevis. “I guess you can say I’ve always teacher Dyan Gonsalves and her husband, fell in love with the island. It was during so much vibrant energy. (They do offer been an island girl at heart,” she says. Richard, Island Style is a unique art gal- my visits to the rock that I saw a need for worldwide shipping, if your purchases Dyan’s love of the tropics and fine art lery. Shoppers can splurge on a variety Island Style in Key West and I wanted to exceed your luggage space.) There’s is evident throughout the space she has so of products ranging from fine art and create a space for both locals and visitors something about Caribbean colors that meticulously curated along with the art- jewelry to pottery and inspirational cards to get unique art and gifts that were both catch your attention and lift up your ists she has handpicked to show. Known and buyers can shop confidently knowing accessible and affordable.” spirit. The music doesn’t hurt either, as for the colorful numbered address tiles they are getting eclectic items at a wide As soon as you walk into the vibrant you find yourself swaying and grooving and beautifully crafted outdoor sculp- variety of price points. And for those of space of turquoise, yellows and pinks, throughout the store. tures that can weather the storm and you thinking about the holiday season, your senses are greeted with the soothing Art lovers can feast their eyes on hand- have you envied by all your neighbors, there is definitely something for everyone sounds of a steel drum as island calypso made and hand-painted furniture, which Island Style is a must whether you’re on on your gifting list. music plays in the background. You’re of course can be customized to match the island for just a few hours or you live “I moved from Michigan to Sanibel greeted by Dyan or one of her longtime your home’s palette. Dyan loves work- here. And it’s the perfect spot to check Island then bought a home in Key West,” helpful employees and you’ll usually see ing with individual clients to help curate off all those that have been both naughty Dyan says. “At the time I was teaching, but her husband in on the action as well as pieces that will stand out in beach homes and nice on your holiday list this year. I no one can afford to teach and live there, he’s busy packing up goodies to ship out or houses in the Midwest. You can choose guarantee you’ll find something for every- so I decided to open up the gallery. While to their new homes or hanging up new from multi-hued dining room sets, end one. Happy shopping and make sure you I was a student in college, I was in charge pieces of art that have just arrived. tables, mirrors and lamps. tell Dyan that Jenny sent you. ■ FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 A7 The Lakes: A step into Caribbean utopia
BY SHAUN CORCORAN seed pods covering the tree, so they can Florida Weekly Correspondent get some wide distribution from the storms. The seeds are viable in the water Key West dabbles in many social gath- for over a year, until they start growing erings and announces itself as the but- their roots, and snag onto something,” he terfly’s haven for socialites. It flutters explains. amongst the crannies of Duval Street and Tiny crabs, clambering over and spills over into the wee hours. Satiated around each other, stand guard on their from the overflow of tourists, the econ- crustacean highway branch. A horseshoe omy thrives and the locals harvest their crab trots slowly on the Lakes’ shallow monies in hope of paying next month’s ground, searching for an early lunch. It’s rent. And then, dawn appears, the roost- a peaceful village inside the mangroves, ers shuffle their vocal cords and the cycle everything in harmony. begins again. Having toured in and around the man- The weary tourist has slayed her wal- grove, we return to the catamaran and let and ponders her return. As she gazes settle into the provided snacks. Our next west later that morning, the lapping ocean stop is not too far away, a place to enjoy craving her attention, the tourist senses some snorkeling. The accessibility of the her emptiness. Is Duval Street the reason water’s depth allows for some investiga- the locals live here? What lies out there COURTESY PHOTOS tive snorkeling. Armed with the necessary that would truly depict the raw earthiness Catch brilliant sunsets and local fauna on one equipment, I discover a vibrant display of this Caribbean island? of Key West Eco Tour’s excursions. of sponges. They sway gently with the Her gaze is met by the silhouette of a invading currents, filtering the surround- dainty catamaran, its sails gloating with healthy, and being protected by the salt ing water to maintain the water clarity, pride as the wind marshals its inhabitants tolerant mangroves, thrives at the top end like underwater vacuums on spring clean- westward. Vicariously she places herself of the environmental scale. ing duty. Although a designated park, onto the helm, the captain in full voice. I ask George about the importance of there are still “active sponges working “About two miles to our anchoring area. It the mangroves. “The red mangrove is the the area,” George intimates once back on is part of the passage.” “Passage?” I query. most important one. That’s the one that the boat. “Yes, the Lakes passage that runs 12 miles thrives in 100% saltwater and, without the The day’s rays cast longer shadows toward Boca Grande and onto the Mar- red, there wouldn’t be those mangrove as we nestle back into position for the quesas,” he states. islands. After the reds establish them- return sail. A cozy warmth percolates in Capt. George, part owner with his selves, the other salt-tolerant ones, the my body as I reflect on the dizzying array wife Carla, glides the streamlined Java black and white mangroves, mahogany of beauty experienced that day. George Cat, a 32-foot catamaran, toward the Gulf the approaching Lakes. The Lakes is the and sea-grape trees take shape. But cer- urges the sails to comply as he steers the Stream. The sun cajoles us to take in jewel of the refuge, at a depth of around tainly, the red, that’s the most important boat east, the softness of the light winds its warmth as the turquoise hull slithers 3 feet, and it provides a safe sanctuary for one, hands-down.” brushing our faces with contentment. through the unbelievably blue and green about 70% of the fin fish. From barracudas A flurry of chirping raises our aware- We live in times of over-developed waters. The vessel was initially owned to mangrove snappers, the area is blessed ness to the tops of the mangroves, and egos, ones that pursue greedy paths by local Rick Keith, built by the lanky with teems of juveniles, all eager to bulk we watch as a cluster of cormorants bit- toward our planet’s destruction. Climate Englishman, Steve King, and designed up for the adult years ahead. The shallow terly argue over branch nesting rights, change knocks vociferously at our door. by Steve Brown in 1988/89. George and waters offer them protection from the like family squabbles over who’s taking Our ecosystems worldwide are threat- Carla customized the Java Cat as part of deeper oceans’ rabid predators and this is the last scoop of Thanksgiving stuffing. ened by our refusal to change. But in hear- their Key West Eco Tour company. Run- where they get their start. Noisily opining, their shrieky chattering ing George reflect on this National Wild- ning tours since 2006, they passionately George’s sun-drenched arm motions echoes like Aunty Wendy’s 1980 rusty life Refuge — “Overall, the last 20 years or display their commitment to the environ- to the bow, his voice arching in brief Buick’s fan belt, disturbing the serenity of so that I’ve been going out there, it seems ment by volunteering for Reef Relief and excitement, years on the water curtailing the Lakes. The din proves short lived as to have maintained its vitality” — I want the Florida Keys Environmental Coali- any aggressive delight at the sight adorn- the family disputes nestle quietly into a to be available to open the door of change, tion, among others. ing the gates to the Lakes. I scanned pecking order of decorum. Along with the and in doing so, help shift our conscious- George offers to quench my informa- my eyes across the nagging glare of the marauding cormorants, a solitary heron ness away from gluttony and into a space tional thirst. “The Lakes is just a part of water. Belly-flop splashes, like my infan- glued silently to its hunting spot, both where we respect that Mother Nature can the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. tile brother’s attempt to bombard the eyes on high alert, and comical pelicans only deliver warning signs for so long. The National Wildlife Refuge is kind of pool’s quiet, lit up the calm flats as a small hang-gliding in unison across the plain, Key West approaches on the horizon. shaped like a square, and was established pod of bottlenose dolphins pirouetted can be seen. This low-lying area is also In the distance, hugging the shores of over 100 years ago to help protect the into the air. The water at the gates runs flush with migratory birds, en route to Fort Zachary, I notice a lady staring out wading birds.” about 6-8 feet deep, the dolphins cascad- their final destination. into the ocean. We drift by her and a In the late 19th and early 20th cen- ing its contents in an apparent celebration After deboarding into kayaks, George smile shines bright, her eyes gazing at the tury, when hunting birds for their feath- of our arrival. guides us through a section of the man- catamaran. If only she knew what she ers employed many money-seeking folk, We were truly entering Mother groves. The lapping of the oars barely missed. ■ one pound of feathers was worth more Nature’s bosom, the dolphin dancing a silences the cacophony of yet another than one pound of gold. The hat makers precursor to the magnificence of this cormorant dust-up. A very knowledge- In the KNOW in Danbury, Conn., were the beneficia- part of the Lakes. As we slip through the able and enthusiastic guide, George dis- ries, being the center of the hat-making clear hazel-colored waters, the shallow- penses some vital information regarding industry. ness sheds light on an array of sea-life. the benefits of the red mangroves. Key West Eco Tours Crossing over the Gulf Stream, the green Bonnethead sharks lazily scavenging the “Supposedly they can withstand up » When: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. & 2-6 p.m. in hue alters its color to a brilliant cobalt blue bottom for some edibles, nurse sharks to 150 mph winds. Their life cycle lines winter. Summer hours vary. as the deeper channel, surging north, is dashing through the sea grass in search up with the storm season because that’s » How: Contact Key West Eco Tours in stark contrast to the shallow depths of of mollusks. The ecosystem is rich and when they have their propagules, their at 305-294-7245
TRUNK SHOW: FIRST FRIDAY LIVE MUSIC HOLIDAY SHOPPING KEY WEST STYLE KAREN HEINS & HOLIDAY COOKIE EXCHANGE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13TH FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6th 5:30 TO 8:30PM 5:00 TO 7:00PM Complete your holiday shopping list with Get into the holiday spirit with an evening of luxury style and beautiful artistry. fun & festive carols accompanied by local pianist Karen Heins. Bring delicious homemade cookies to exchange. We’ll supply the eggnog.
TRUNK SHOW: ENJOY HOLIDAY DRINK SPECIALS & BOUTIQUE SHOPPING DISCOUNTS!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14th Featuring Fresha London Apparel, Theresa Kalvaitis Fine Art 12:00 TO 5:00PM Photography, Whimsy Key West Art and Zen by Karen Moore Jewelry, as Spend an afternoon with friends, Fresha they showcase their thoughtful creations for the holiday season. Clothing & Amber Essential Elements. Beautifully designed clothing from London Enjoy champagne, live music & boutique shopping specials and locally handcrafted body products. Location: The Perry Hotel 305.509.7378 Location: the Green Pineapple 7001 Shrimp Road, Stock Island, FL 33040 www.greenpineapplewellness.com 1130 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040 A8 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Spelling Bee, First Monday Bobby’s Monkey Bar SPECIAL EVENTS of each month, 9 p.m. 900 Simonton St. APPEARING AT THE STORE • Trivia, Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Karaoke, nightly, 9:30 p.m. 6 Rojo • SIN Night (Service Industry Night), Bobby’s Monkey Bar on Facebook DEC FRIDAY | 6PM TO 8PM Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. Tropic Cinema Bourbon St. Pub Jami Attenberg returns to Books and Books for 416 Eaton St. Mellow Café and Gastropub 724 Duval St. a reading and signing of her new novel ALL THIS Bike nights, live music • Just Jeff (Moss), COULD BE YOURS. Think the drama of Big Little www.tropiccinema.com Lies set in the heat of a New Orleans summer. Ride your bike and Wednesday-Sunday, 8-10 p.m. “If I know why they are the way they are, then Rumours: get half off your meal • The Men of Bourbon, nightly maybe I can learn why I am the way I am,” says A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Thursday, 7-10 p.m. www.BourbonStpub.com Alex Tuchman of her parents. Dec. 5, doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. 1605 North Roosevelt Blvd. Key West Theater www.mellowkw.com 801 Bourbon Bar 512 Eaton St. 801 Duval St. JAMI www.thekeywesttheater.com Smokin’ Tuna • Drag Shows, nightly, 9 and 11 p.m. ATTENBERG 4 Charles St. • Happy Hour Drag, 5 p.m. Saturday ALL THIS COULD BE YOURS Sutton Foster in Concert Live music nightly • Drag Karaoke, 4 p.m. Sunday Dec. 5, 8 p.m. Check the schedule at • Messy Mondays with Mulysa, Tennessee Williams Theatre www.smokingtunasaloon.com 1 a.m. Monday 5901 College Road, Stock Island • Fierce and Fabulous/Dragalicious, www.keystix.ticketforce.com Sloppy Joe’s 1 a.m. Wednesday 201 Duval St. www.801bourbon.com First Friday Live Music Live music nightly with Karen Heins & Holiday Check the schedule at Sidebar at Aqua Cookie Exchange www.sloppyjoes.com 504 Angela St. Dec. 6, 5 p.m. • House Music Saturday Nights, Green Pineapple Saturday, 9 p.m. – 4 a.m. UPCOMING EVENTS 1130 Duval St. PHOTOGRAPHY www.sidebarkeywest.com www.greenpineapplewellness.com 10 AYSE PAPATYA BUCAK Fine Photography La Te Da DEC TROJAN WAR MUSEUM AND OTHER STORIES First Friday on Fleming by Alan S. Maltz 1125 Duval St. Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m. ROBERTA B. MARKS Ongoing • Christopher Peterson, Dec. 7 9 13 500 Block of Fleming Street Alan S. Maltz Gallery p.m. DEC WORKS AND WORLDS: A PERSONAL ANTHOLOGY Bubba’s Fables 1210 Duval St. • Randy Roberts, Dec. 5, 10, 9 p.m. 18 PHYLLIS ROSE Dec. 7, 10 a.m., 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. www.alanmaltz.com • 3Sum, Dec. 5-8 8:30 p.m. DEC ALFRED STIEGLITZ: TAKING The Studios of Key West 305-294-0005 • James & Ronnie, Dec. 7, 8:30 p.m. PICTURES, MAKING PAINTERS • The Fabulous Spectrelles, Dec. 10, 533 Eaton St. Photographs www.tskw.org 8:30 p.m. by Jorge de la Torriente • Tea Dance, 4-6:30 p.m. Sunday Paula Poundstone Ongoing www.Lateda.com Dec. 7, doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. De La Gallery 533 Eaton St. (Corner of Simonton & Eaton Sts.) Key West Theater 419 Duval St. Key West, FL 33040 512 Eaton St. www.delagallery.com AROUND KEY WEST 305-320-0208 www.thekeywesttheater.com 305-395-2210 www.booksandbookskw.com Truman Waterfront Market Royal Opera House: Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. “Don Pasquale” CINEMA Truman Waterfront Dec. 8, 11 a.m. 35 E. Quay Road Tropic Cinema Tropic Cinema Sip & Shop Saturday 416 Eaton St. 416 Eaton St. Saturday, all day www.tropiccinema.com www.tropiccinema.com Green Pineapple Check the website for ongoing films Monday Night Classics: 1130 Duval St. “It’s A Wonderful Life” Regal Cinema www.greenpineapplewellness.com Dec. 9, 6:30 p.m. 3338 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Local Farm Stand Tropic Cinema www.regmovies.com Wednesday, 5-7 p.m. 416 Eaton St. Check the website for ongoing films Mellow Café and Gastropub www.tropiccinema.com 1605 North Roosevelt Blvd. Be Well Wednesday: LGBT Ghost Tours and Ghost Hunts NEW - USED - RARARERE Brain Health with Nightly Susan Seroskie, RN, BSN Aqua Nightclub 301 Whitehead St. and 1102 Duval St. Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. 711 Duval St. 305-395-1435 BOOK Green Pineapple • Drag shows, nightly at 7 and 9 p.m. www.hauntedkeywest.com ■ 1130 Duval St. • Karaoke, Monday through SIGNING www.greenpineapplewellness.com Thursday, 11 p.m. A Peter White Christmas www.Aquakeywest.com featuring Euge Groove, Vincent Ingala & Lindsey Webster Dec. 11, doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. Key West Theater 512 Eaton St. www.thekeywesttheater.com MUSIC Green Parrot Bar 601 Whitehead St. Live music nightly Check the schedule at JENNIFER POTTER www.greenparrot.com will be signing her wonderful new book Irish Kevin’s “Keep Going, Tiny” 211 Duval St. An inspirational story for Live music nightly kids from 8 years to 80! Check the schedule at www.irishkevins.com Friday, December 6th Margaritaville from 6pm to 8pm 500 Duval St. during the Fleming Street block party. Live music Tuesday-Sunday, 8 p.m. Check the schedule at 305-294-2904 www.margaritavillekeywest.com COURTESY PHOTO KEY WEST ISLAND BOOKS Mary Ellen’s Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute has become one of the most sought after and highly 513 Fleming Street, Key West 420 Appelrouth Ln. regarded tribute bands in the genre. See them Dec. 5. Doors open at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. at www.KWIslandBooks.com • Comedy Key West Drunken the Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St., www.thekeywesttheater.com. FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 A9 KEY WEST CALENDAR OF EVENTS
■ Don’t miss humorist, author and comedian Paula Poundstone, Dec. 7, doors at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m., Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. #KW — www.thekeywesttheater.com 12.6
■ First Friday on Fleming — Kick-off the holidays with the inaugural “buy local” block party, Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m., 500 Block of Fleming Street 12.7 ■ Sutton Foster in Concert, ■ A Peter White ■ Monday Dec. 5, 8 p.m., Tennessee Christmas featuring Night Williams Theatre, 5901 Euge Groove, Classics: College Road, Stock Vincent Ingala & “It’s A Island Lindsey Webster, Wonderful — www.keystix. Dec. 11, doors at 7 Life,” ticketforce.com p.m., show at 8 p.m. Dec. 9, Key West Theater, 6:30 p.m., 512 Eaton St. Tropic Cinema, — www.thekeywest 416 Eaton St. 12.9 theater.com — www.tropiccinema.com
12.5 12.11 COURTESY PHOTOS COURTESY A10 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST
“COAST is purposefully ambiguous. It’s a place and a pace. It has broad appeal and can mean just as much to someone who spends his or her entire life in and around the water as it does to someone who is landlocked but loves to cruise around on a rusty bike at a slow and effortless clip.” — Billy Kearins, founder of the COAST is Clear Music & Arts Festival
COURTESY PHOTO Billy Kearins smiles on a boat.
says — and I’m probably butchering the your own boss? could come down to play the first COAST actual line — “Don’t let your schooling BK: Within a year or so of moving here, Is Clear Festival. They both agreed and COAST get in the way of your education.” That I quickly made my way up the ladder at since then Rayland has played a couple From page 1 always rang true to me because I did get a Fury Catamarans, which at the time only of other shows at COAST. Last year, we really good education — Phillips Andover had two boats. I started sailing their big spent Christmas together in Key West. He for prep school, Boston College, where “cats” in my early 20s. That’s coming from helped me move out of our old space on musical talents on hand for this year’s I studied marketing, and then Copenha- essentially zero prior boating experience. Stock Island during that last week of 2018. celebrations, and even the ways he would gen Business School a few years later for Remember that I said that I go all-in on I count Ray as a good friend. It’s a huge spruce up downtown Key West. Festival post-grad work in entrepreneurship. Even things that interest me? I was fried a few bonus that he’s an amazing artist with his tickets are available at CoastProjects.com. though all of that theoretical knowledge years into that. Long days at the wheel heart in the right place. That’s really why gave me a base, I learned far more by got me thinking of other things I wanted he’s down here for the festival. Kevin Assam: Just how many glorious putting myself out there and learning to do. I got into boat building on my days beards have you cycled through at this through trial and error. If I’m into some- off and had a hand in building some of the KA: How does COAST differ from point? thing, I get way into it and teach myself or biggest boats with a couple of friends at other brands with a strong local presence Billy Kearins: Wow, hitting me with meet people who can show me the ropes. Robbie’s Marina on Stock Island that still and, sometimes, roots, including Salt Life the beard right off the bat. Bold. I was Five years ago, I didn’t know the first run out of Key West. That experience led and Lost Boy Creations? pretty late to the facial hair game. I was thing about putting on a concert and now to me wanting to physically create things BK: COAST is purposefully ambigu- one of those kids who didn’t grow until we put on some of the biggest shows on as a way to support myself. I started a ous. It’s a place and a pace. It has broad late in high school and really didn’t have the island. None of those schools showed small skateboard building company and appeal and can mean just as much to facial hair until my mid-20s. Ever since it me how to do that. taught myself to design and screen print someone who spends his or her entire was an option, it’s been almost a constant shirts. That ultimately was the basis for life in and around the water as it does to in my wardrobe. Throughout the past 15 KA: That’s a robust lineup of institu- the COAST brand. There are huge gaps someone who is landlocked but loves to years, I usually do an annual shearing tions not many have access to. How did in there, but this is already a long-winded cruise around on a rusty bike at a slow where I get it down pretty short and let it you find yourself on that Greyhound to attempt at condensing it. Let your imagi- and effortless clip. I know nothing about go until I need to clean up my act. I don’t Key West after undergraduate studies? nation wander. The true story is stranger Salt Life other than lots of people in trim or tidy it. It’s all or nothing because I BK: I should note a lot of financial aid than any fiction. Florida have its stickers on the back of hate shaving. I actually think I look better and scholarships got me through those oversized pickup trucks. Regarding Lost without it. institutions. I spent a full ten years after KA: Is “Stranger Than Fiction” one of Boy, I like what Matty is up to. There’s graduation paying it back. Copenhagen your favorite films? a bit of symbiosis between our brands KA: Did your father or other close fam- Business School was free because I had BK: It is not. “Almost Famous” is my beyond operating in the same neighbor- ily figures sport beards around you while residency in Denmark. During my senior favorite film. It’s about ‘70s rock ’n’ roll hood. We’re happy to have him on board growing up? year at Boston College, me and a few of and learning on the road — supreme facial for the arts market during the festival BK:Is this an article about beards or my other friends who also didn’t have hair abounds! Although, “Old School” weekend. a music festival? (laughs) My dad had access to their parents’ credit cards decid- would probably be my favorite with Will a solid ’stache in the ‘70s, but that was ed we wanted to enjoy a week in the sun. Ferrell. And Rayland Baxter’s “Strange KA: Why create the COAST Is Clear before I was around. I came across a few We piled into a late ‘80s Jeep Wrangler American Dream” is among my favorite Music & Arts Festival three years ago? photos in a dusty album in the basement. and drove straight south from Boston. new songs. He’s playing at the festival BK: At the core of the festival is a cel- Maybe it sparked something for me to Thirty hours later, we made it to the end next week — strange, right? ebration of the end of hurricane season aspire to subconsciously. I also have a of the road, split a hotel room five ways — when the “coast is clear.” Officially, weird Uncle Bruce who always wore a at Blue Lagoon — now Ibis Bay — and KA: What brings Rayland to the 3rd that day is Nov. 30 or Dec. 1, but wanting full-on outdoorsman beard — even to this soaked up the sun and a fair amount of Annual COAST Is Clear Music & Arts to keep it on a weekend, we decided it day. My family always says I ended up like beer for a few days. On the way back, we Festival? will always be held the weekend follow- him, which is entirely cool with me. vowed to return after graduation. I was BK: I met Rayland when he played the ing the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, the only one who returned. They became Key West Songwriters Festival in 2017. which this year is Dec. 5–7. The impe- KA: Behind your beard and slub tee is lawyers. I think they regret it. He was playing a show at the San Carlos tus for starting it in 2017 was Hurri- a very academically educated individual. Institute with another friend of mine, cane Irma and wanting to raise funds for Was your college experience disappoint- KA: When you did return, what was Langhorne Slim. We all met up around relief in the Lower Keys. I didn’t want to ing? your take on the financial landscape of the corner at Green Parrot. One thing led do something right away because there BK: What makes you think that? I Key West as it related to your ability to to the next and I got in touch with him wasn’t much to celebrate. But waiting a always liked the Mark Twain quote that sustain a livelihood where you would be — and Slim — after Irma to see if they few months and being confident another FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 A11 hurricane wasn’t heading our way, we felt better about getting folks together to celebrate in the wake of a disaster. We still use the festival to raise funds. This year we will have donation boxes at most events raising money for Key West Cares, which has been at the forefront of the relief effort in the Bahamas since Dorian hit in September.
KA: Tell me more about the musicians and strong beards that will be part of the lineup. Will we discover any tracks to add to our Lizzo and Sufjan Stevens-inspired playlists? BK: I’m really stoked to get Justin (SUSTO) down here to play a couple of solo sets. SUSTO’s an indie-folk rock band playing huge stages and festivals around the country including Newport Folk Fest this summer and previously opening for The Lumineers and Band of Horses. I met him at Songwriters in 2018. He is good buds with Rayland. They seem excited to share the small stage down here. No big beard for Justin but some punk rock knuckle tattoos that say ACID BOYS. Beyond SUSTO, Tim Reynolds and TR3 are playing Thursday at Green Parrot. I grew up listening to him with Dave Matthews so that’s another one I’m looking forward to. Electric Blue Yonder has rad sound that I always enjoy listen- ing to — trippy space folk with a cool aesthetic to boot. And then, Chris Kasper is a fantastic songwriter who has toured with Amos Lee, The Wood Brothers and my buddy G. Love. We’ll round it out with a bunch of my favorite local performers and their bands — Jerrod Isaman, Cay- man Smith-Martin, Turner Harrison and Sam Carlson. It’s always cool to see them play in a proper concert rather than in the corner of a bar. COURTESY PHOTO Musician Billy Currington (center) with Billy Kearins (right). KA: The color palette and artistic direction for COAST involves the use of making it easier to get around in the car clean lines, mellow hues and minimalist and they should have spent it on biking geometry, especially in your promotional infrastructure. They widened the boule- designs. It all feels very soothing. How do vard for vehicular traffic and even in the you maintain this airiness to your look? Village they just connected Angela Street BK: Down here, designs — especially to Truman Waterfront and put in loads promotional pieces — tend to be loud, of vehicle parking. I could go on and on, cluttered and “texty.” As if the goal is to but Key West can and should be the most yell at everyone everything all at once bicycle friendly city in the entire country. — and that doesn’t always work. I design Its climate, pace of life and topography all with “less is more” always in my head. lend itself to that. I do my part. I ride my People’s eyes and brains naturally move bike pretty much everywhere. to something that doesn’t require as much focus and makes their imagination wan- KA: Businesses, especially some of the der. Our concert posters have a lot of art galleries, claim that sales and in-store simple shapes that tell their own stories. traffic decline during pedestrian-only trial This year’s COAST Is Clear poster has an runs because persons are no longer con- ocean, the coast, a waxing gibbous moon fined to the sidewalk. Do you buy that? accurate to Dec. 6, 2019, a “red sky” sig- BK: I love the idea of Mall on Duval but nifying good sailing weather and a dark I think it could use help on an aesthetic square that is halfway behind the horizon. level. Festival-style metal barricades with That red sky and dark square, when com- police officers at each intersection and bined, is meant to be the hurricane flag randomly placed plastic chairs and tables setting for its annual hibernation. Maybe spread out over a few blocks do not not everyone would pick up on that, but look appealing or provide a comfortable it does pique the imagination and say atmosphere. There needs to be a bigger more through shapes and colors than with investment to spruce up the curb appeal words. And that’s kind of the goal of art, Rayland Baxter (left) backstage at a local concert with Billy (right). and make the whole thing seem more isn’t it? cohesive. Considering that, I can see why show at the exhibition. I’ll have some of camera?” So, now he messes around with it might not be working for everyone. KA: How will the festival be breaking my older photos on display as well. The my old Canon. Since there’s really no way I’m sure the numbers don’t lie. But, I do new ground art-wise? It’s not going to be series is called “Edge of Old Town” and to repay (Currington), I figured doing think that if there was a collective effort just roosters on surfboards on oil, right? it’s mostly street photography exclusively a photo exhibition — even if it’s just an to make the street and the overarching BK: (laughs) Hope not. We are tiptoe- taken in Bahama Village. I’ve been trying experiment — to let him know I put the concept more refined, everyone would ing into the arts end of the pool as this is to shoot in the mornings and around sun- gift to good use was the least I could do. end up benefiting. the first year we added “Arts” to the title. set because the lighting is better. We have a curated local arts market tak- KA: Should Duval and parts of Bahama KA: Will COAST be throwing its sup- ing place at the Key West Lighthouse on KA: Billy Currington just gifted you a Village become pedestrian only sections port behind any candidates running for Friday and Saturday (Dec. 6-7). We have a piece of expensive photography equip- of the city? political office in 2020? Bahama Village art walk on Saturday and ment? No strings attached? Are your kids BK: Absolutely. You pretty much read BK: I think everyone knows where I I’m slated to have my own photo exhibi- allowed to touch it? my mind. Sections of Duval Street should stand politically even without being too tion at our shop opening on Thursday. BK: Yeah, no strings attached. He kept be closed to cars all the time. I don’t vocal. I chip in a couple bucks a month I’ve been experimenting with photogra- telling me he had something for me. I understand who benefits from cars driv- on a personal level to a wise old man who phy for the past few years and recently figured it was a t-shirt. When he told me ing on Duval except maybe delivery driv- thinks healthcare is a human right. Billy Currington — who played the huge to meet him on his tour bus right before ers and cabs. I lived in Copenhagen for Dorian benefit at Sunset Pier in Septem- he left town, I brought a couple of COAST five years and it has world class urban KA: Will you be there to help us escape ber — gifted me a really nice camera. He shirts to reciprocate. Then he handed me planning and design. Loads of the busi- in boats and handcrafted vessels as the prefaced this by saying I should do more two big bags of brand new camera equip- est commercial streets are pedestrian sea levels continue to rise? Could we all with my photos. So, for the past couple ment and I was like, wow — here’s a cou- only after 11 a.m., which is after morning wear COAST merchandise as we sail into of months, I’ve been teaching myself to ple of t-shirts. My son was with me at the deliveries arrive. It makes for an entirely the unknown? use this insane piece of equipment and time and when we got off the bus, the first safer and more social setting for people. BK: Women and children first. Free I’m hoping to have ten new images to thing he said was, “Can I have your other There’s been so much money spent on t-shirts for all as we sail into the mystic. ■ A12 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST
COURTESY PHOTOS Amsterdam’s Curry Mansion Inn is one of the stops on the Holiday Historic Inn Tour on Friday, Dec. 6. HOLIDAYS From page 1
year, do yourself a favor and relax; we’ve got plenty of laid-back options for those looking to experience the season island- style. When the weather takes a turn for the chilly (and for the record, that’s any- thing under 75) here in Key West, locals tend to (grossly) overcompensate for our climate’s lack of natural holiday décor. No snow-covered pine boughs or icicle- trimmed eaves ripe for adornment? Easy — cover your palm trees and hammock with twinkle lights (and toss some on your bike while you’re at it) and have Rudolph graze among the chickens and stray cats in the front lawn. Once the last of the corsets and headdresses from Fantasy Fest have been safely locked Get your pet photographed with Santa at the Parade of Paws & Holiday Bazaar on Dec. 14. away, electricity bills begin to skyrocket as the competition for best-dressed house hour and departs from Mallory Square. Bayview Park at 7 p.m., winding its way takes off across town. Starting right after Find dates and times and purchase your down Truman Avenue and Duval Street. Thanksgiving, Conch Train tours start tickets online at www.trolleytours.com/ It’s the sort of old world, small town event offering special cookie-and-cider evening key-west/christmas-holiday-tours. that the whole village comes out for, with rides that tour the most magnificent light Friday, Dec. 6, also signals the return of multi-generational families of Conchs shows in town, while down by the bight, the Holiday Historic Inn Tour, a favorite (that’s the official term for someone born a festive Harbor Walk of Lights that runs among fans of Key West’s historic archi- in Key West) lining the sidewalks to cheer from late November through New Year’s tecture. This year’s participating inns — and bounce along to the music. Bonus: Eve and features a Fishing Buoy Tree, a The Gardens Hotel, Island City House most marchers toss handfuls of candy fresh pine Nautical Christmas Tree and Hotel, Amsterdam’s Curry Mansion Inn, into the crowd, which is way more deli- the original Key West Lobster Trap Tree, The Weatherstation Inn and Hemingway cious than Fantasy Fest beads and you signifies that the season has really begun Rum Co. Distillery on Dec. 6 and the Ava- won’t even have to flash anyone for those in earnest. From here, it’s a packed sched- lon Bed & Breakfast, Wicker Guesthouse, Reese’s. Win/win! ule of parades, concerts, parties, perfor- The Mermaid & the Alligator, Key West On Sunday, Dec. 8, the Tropic Cinema, mances, tours and cinnamon-spiked drink Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and Key West Theater, Keys Choral Arts, Old specials. Here’s what’s on deck: Santa Maria Suites Resort on Dec. 13 — Stone Methodist Church, The Studios of Key West’s conch cottages may not be will deliver an eye-watering display and Key West and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church covered in a light dusting of powdered spread of festive treats for attendees, who will present their third annual Eaton sugar-like snow, but we still know how to are carted from place to place via trolley Street Christmas Stroll, an evening of decorate our homes to the nines. Every from 6-8 p.m. on both nights. Tickets can music, theater, shopping and celebration. year, a number of epically creative locals — and should — be purchased ahead of This innovative traveling program for all cover their homes in lights and other time at keystix.ticketforce.com. ages will feature classic Christmas carols, holiday-inspired décor and engage in a On Friday, Dec. 6, those in town with a live nativity, holiday-themed theatrical little friendly competition. If you didn’t pets should trek over to the end of Wil- performances and more. The festivities get to check out the entries on the official liam Street (on the Schooner Wharf side) begin at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (at Key West Lighted Bike Ride on Dec. 4, to the Pet Pictures with Santa event from the corner of Duval and Eaton streets) at from Dec. 6-23 you can still jump on one 6-8 p.m., hosted by local veterinary group 4 p.m. and revelers will be able to watch a of the many Old Town Trolley Lights & All Animal Clinic and benefiting the Key Christmas film at the Tropic Cinema, lis- Sights holiday tours and vote for your West Boys and Girls Club. Because if you ten to live music at the Key West Theater favorite holiday lights display. Along with have a pup and you don’t Instagram a shot and shop artisanal goods at the Studios of the awesome sights and excellent nar- of him trying to lick Santa’s rosy nose, did Key West. ration highlighting fun facts about the Christmas even really happen? On Saturday, Dec. 14, the sixth annual island, you’ll also enjoy complimentary This may come as a surprise, but the Parade of Paws & Holiday Bazaar SPCA tasty treats like cookies and hot cider (and holiday season in Key West isn’t com- fundraiser will commence at 10 a.m. at we hear some of the contestants even plete without a parade or two. On Dec. the Higgs Beach Dog Park. Participants try to bribe the trolleys with candy and 7, the annual family-friendly Key West work to secure pledges from their friends OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY adult libations). The tour lasts about an Hometown Holiday Parade leaves from and family, then promenade themselves FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 A13 and their dogs across the beach to vie for the titles of King, Queen, Prince, Princess, Duke and Duchess. A holiday bazaar held inside the adjacent dog park will offer food vendors, crafts, gifts and entertain- ment. The fundraiser benefits the Animal Care Fund, which supports the SPCA’s lifesaving mission to care for our commu- nity’s homeless animals. For more infor- mation, to donate, or to register yourself and your four-legged friend, visit fkspca. org/calendar-of-events. Those looking to experience a truly quintessential Key West holiday experi- ence should mark their calendars for Dec. 14, then decide whether to watch the 29th Annual Lighted Boat Parade from land or sea. Both have their pros and cons, but if funds aren’t especially tight this year, book the family seats on one of the many charter boats heading out into the harbor that evening, where you’ll float amongst the 40 or so trussed up vessels, all vying for cash prizes totaling over $20,000. It’s a spectacularly fabulous, often tacky dis- play in which the size and artistic vision of participating vessels form a massive, twinkly gradient; single-man kayaks blan- keted in battery-powered icicle lights go The Lighted Boat Parade is the quintessential Key West holiday event. mast to mast against massive wooden schooners, and elaborate lighted tableaus becomes arguably the most unique holi- to the jailhouse this year. Treat yourself while picking up treats for depict Santa having traded in his sleigh day event in Key West in December. Cut- If you’re as much of a holiday shopping your loved ones — that’s the real magic of for a jet-ski. If you’d prefer to watch the ting its usual bi-monthly visiting hours procrastinator as I am, you’ll be thrilled to the holiday season. merriment with your feet firmly planted in half, the farm — whose non-human hear that on Wednesday, Dec. 18, the Key And this is by no means an exhaustive on the ground, the best place to do so is residents include a sloth, two llamas, rab- West Art & Historical Society will host its list of everything holiday-related happen- Schooner Wharf Bar, which, in addition bits, a massive tortoise, horses, hogs and 4th Annual Holiday Concert & Bazaar on ing in Key West. There’s the 4th Annual to formally hosting the event, ingratiates more — will open its doors only once in the porch of the Custom House Museum. FKOC Gingerbread House Auction at themselves among fans of limited edition December – from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, This super popular celebration will fea- Sidebar on Dec. 5, First Friday Holiday beverages by adding eggnog, hot cider Dec. 15. On that day, Santa himself will ture some of Key West’s finest artisans, Music at the Green Pineapple on Dec. 6, and some variation of spiced grog to their join the inmates and farm animals for musicians and choirs, food and libations, the Stock Island Lighted Boat Parade on bar menu for the evening. family photographs — perhaps the only free entrance to the museum and a daz- Dec. 13, Christmas Rocks! at the Key West Already renowned as the only pro- day in his career on which he’ll need to zling holiday light show projected onto Theater on Dec. 22 and so much more. gram of its kind, the Key West Sheriff’s compete with a sloth for children’s atten- the face of the historic building. Browse So keep your eyes and ears peeled and Animal Farm, in which inmates care for tion. Having seen firsthand the undeni- hundreds of unique gifts, get last-minute your hearts and minds open — we’re sure seized exotic animals and livestock in a able charisma of Mo the sloth, it’s clear pictures with Santa, or just indulge in a you’ll find more than your share of weird facility open to the public twice a month, that Santa will need to bring his A-game nerve-calming glass of eggnog or two. holiday magic down here. ■ ULTIMATEthe SOUVENIR!
TATTOOS & PIERCINGS For appointment 305-295-2556 712A Duval Street, Key West www.conchink.com A14 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 FLORIDA WEEKLY
December 27 & 28, 2019 January 17 & 18, 2020 February 14 & 15, 2020 March 13 & 14, 2020
COURTESY PHOTO Paula Poundstone is returning to Key West and, oh yeah, she started out bussing tables
BY GWEN FILOSA ous, actually. She’s been funny since she wouldn’t get done. If you really want Florida Weekly Correspondent was a kid and eventually turned it into to be a stand-up, just go for it. I started a successful career. Now it’s been 40 when I was 19. I consider that a lucky Yes, comedian Paula Poundstone is years in the spotlight. break.” For Tickets & Info - funny even in a phone interview. Hilari- That’s four decades of touring and Poundstone will return to the Key KeyWestHomeTours.com looking for laughs from strangers. That’s West Theater on Dec. 7 with an 8 p.m. also decades worth of television appear- show. Tickets run between $57 and $75. ances, hotel rooms and comedy stages. “A good comedy show can bring people This road can be unforgiving for touring together,” Poundstone said. She gets artists. But Poundstone says she’s the to harness the energy of the crowd by lucky one. These days, she does about telling relatable stories amid the jokes. 85 shows a year. She’s a panelist on “They laugh, not because you’re a freak, NPR’s wildly successful weekly comedy but because they say, ‘Yeah, I had that.’ news quiz called “Wait Wait … Don’t My goal for the night is for people to Tell Me!” walk out feeling part of the group.” Asked, half-jokingly, if she gets any Poundstone has paid her dues, that’s help with the answers before the show, for sure. She started out at age 19 at a Poundstone gasps. “Oh, God no,” she club in Cambridge. That’s when she was said. “I study up on the week’s news still bussing tables in Boston in 1979. ahead of time. I watch a lot of news. Inspired by Robin Williams, she jumped The stuff that usually trips you up is the into comedy. Williams helped her get on pressure of answering questions quickly television for the first time and encour- and ‘News of the Weird.’” aged her to move to Los Angeles to be Poundstone, 59, doesn’t just limit her- in the middle of show biz. “He changed self to stand-up. She’s doing a pod- the format of stand-up comedy,” Pound- cast called “Nobody Listens to Paula stone opined. Poundstone,” which she describes as a Her biggest breakthrough was the “comedy field guide to life.” She’s got 1990 HBO special, “Cats, Cops and two books out, including “The Totally Stuff,” where her observational humor Unscientific Study of the Search for won her awards and a spot on the Human Happiness.” And you’ll see her Tonight Show covering the 1992 presi- on all the bigtime late night shows. dential election. She’s always been a Poundstone, who prefers suits and natural at the microphone, even though ties on stage and is known for her bone- she shies away from that term, “natural.” dry delivery, is busy at what she does “I’m a natural who has worked very best — or maybe it’s her second career hard,” she remarked. “It really is years after the restaurant business. “The truth and years and years of working hard.” Download our is I used to bus tables for a living,” But talent must be in her DNA. Born Poundstone said. “It’s probably the job in Huntsville, Ala., but raised in Massa- FREE Apps for I’m best trained for. I was really good at chusetts, Poundstone didn’t wait long to it. I’m not sure I could have sustained start making people smile. Poundstone table-bussing for 40 years and get to do was a little girl, a teacher once compli- tablets and all the things I’ve gotten to do.” mented on her conversational talents. As an aside, Poundstone said obses- “The first sentence summary in kin- Smartphones sive compulsive disorder made her such dergarten, May 1965, said, ‘I’ve enjoyed a power table busser that they had to Paula’s comments about our activities,’” replace her with two new employees. she recalled. “(My teacher) enjoyed Available on the iTunesTM and Then she comes up with a punch line. laughing at what I said. That was impact- Google PlayTM App Stores.X “Restaurant people should stand out- ful. She was an adult citing something side OCD support meetings,” she said. that I did. She didn’t say, ‘For her age.’ “You want to get people with mental She didn’t qualify it in any way.” health problems as much as you can in Poundstone likes to work out jokes the restaurant business.” onstage. Of course, she’s practically an Boom. expert at wowing audiences. “I don’t
iPad is a registered trademark “Not everybody gets to do what they think about the structure of the joke,” of Apple, Inc. All rights reserved. want,” she said. “If everyone did what Poundstone said. “I just feel my way Visit us online at www.FloridaWeekly.com they love, there’s a lot of shit that through things. When I was younger, I FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 A15
“If you really want to be a stand-up, just go for it. I started when I was 19. I consider that a lucky break.”
– Paula Poundstone, comedian laid out everything I was going to say and tried to memorize it. It didn’t go very well.” When she has an idea, she writes it down and glances at the piece of paper before ascending to the stage. “I very rarely have worked out the words before I go onstage,” she said. “I don’t have a formula. It’s practice.” She knows she’s lucky. The gratitude comes with the years. “I get to do a job where people come to laugh, people thank me for being there,” she said. “It should be the other way around. Some- times people drive a really long way to come and see me.” She’s had times when people have told her about their pain. They say the laughter helps. “At a meet-and-greet, a woman said, ‘My son died and I thought I’d never leave the house again. Thank you, I laughed so hard.’” Poundstone takes that in for a moment before exclaiming: “Wow, you know what? I have the best job in the world.” ■
In the KNOW
Paula Poundstone » Where: Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St » When: Dec. 7, 8 p.m. A16 WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST CAUGHT IN KEY WEST THIS WEEK
■ Wild Bill Charters: ■ Cowboy Cowgirl Sportfishing Charters: ■ Gulfstream Fishing Key West: Another great two trips on the water Wow, what a day, Olga. I’m thinking you are Smiles everywhere except for the guy yesterday. Beautiful weather, fun people a fish whisperer. We find ’em, you wind ’em standing next to the guy who caught this and good fishing! ... that’s what we do. fish. — Capt. Mark Baumgarten — Gulfstream Fishing Key West — Capt. Artie Duplessis 1801 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West 1801 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West 1801 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West 305-744-7957 Private and shared charters 305-296-8494 www.wildbillkeywest.com 305-294-5888 www.gulfstreamkeywest.com keywestfishing-charters.com
■ Southpaw Fishing Key West: ■ Fish’N’Chicks Charters Key West: ■ Fishbusterz Retail Seafood Market: Caught this sail on 15-pound spin from an Epic Dry Tortugas and Loggerhead Key trip. Whole Florida spiny lobster: $10.50 per anchored boat. I’m ready to go back! pound.
— Capt. Brad Simonds — Fish’N’Chicks Charters Key West — Fishbusterz Retail Seafood Market 5950 Peninsular Ave., Key West 1801 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West 6406 Maloney Ave., Key West 305-393-2306 904-420-3090 305-294-6456 southpawfishingkeywest.com www.fishnchickskeywest.com www.keywestseafooddepot.com
* KEY WEST FLORIDA WEEKLY REAL ESTATE
WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 WWW.FLORIDAWEEKLY.COM | A17
COURTESY PHOTOS Legendary Casa Marina home 1501 Grinnell St. — $2,750,000
Enter the enchanted world of a two bedrooms and three baths. The Key West legend. A magnificent home is located on a substantial light-filled great room supported 11,730-square-foot corner lot, totally by touches of Bali and Thailand in walled and fenced for privacy. This the form of floor-to-ceiling pillars special home is a just one block from the other side of the world. from the historic Casa Marina and it The soaring ceiling is remark- is awaiting your hug and a kiss. The able and the walls are all glass property includes a generator. ■ and open to appreciate both the views and the climate, punctuated Contact: by an enormous pool and patio Truman & Company to entertain. The main house has Terri Spottswood two bedrooms and two baths, while 305-587-3407 the guest house has an additional www.terrispottswood.com SELLING HISTORY, NOT JUST HOUSES.
1412 DUNCAN STREET 1500 ALBURY STREET 1019 EATON STREET $1,279,000 $1,895,000 $999,750
John Spottswood 305.395.2360 | Terri Spottswood 305.587.3407 | Raymond J. Vazquez 305.395.1777 [email protected] | www.terrispottswood.com | www.keywesthometeam.com
Patricia McGrath SELLING Moe Smyth In 2004 I traded in a 10mile / A er a happy career as a 1hour commute in Atlanta for the school teacher in islands known as “Paradise”, Massachuse s, I moved to Key West “The Conch Republic” or simply Key West 25 years ago. I have “The Keys”. I love this place, been a Key West Realtor for the people and the life style, ten years and am proud to be it suits me and being able to the islands leading realtor Right from share it with others makes me for condominiums overlooking happy. Like a family lawyer or Smathers Beach. Call me for a accountant, I’m YOUR realtor, consultation today and allow theBeach! and I’m in it for the long-haul me to find you your piece of working on your behalf. paradise on the beach. www.keysrealestatehomes.com/ www.c21islandlife.com about-me
KEY WEST BY THE SEA KEY WEST BY THE SEA 1627 VENETIAN DR, KEY WEST KEY WEST BY THE SEA 2BR/1BA OCEANFRONT CONDO! #501A 1BR/1BA OCEANFRONT CONDO! #504A 4BR/2BA CANAL HOME 1BR/1BA CONDO! #208A Corner south facing unit with lots of sunlight and a Spectacular ocean views sunrise to sunset from Boating in Key West! 65 seawall with stepdown, Ocean and pool view condo with all new windows, sweeping ocean view from sunrise to sunset, Across your balcony across the street from Smathers 1,600 sq. . of living space, carpo and plenty of slider, interior and exterior doors and central air! the street from Smathers Beach in Key West. 2 Beach, walking and bike paths that continues room for a pool. New beadboard cabinets and Corian counters, pools, 2 tennis cou s, clubhouse and much more. around Key West, Pet friendly prope y!! instant on hot water tank. PRICED AT: PRICED AT: PRICED AT: PRICED AT: $590,000 $480,000 $729,000 $489,900 Paradise is Waiting for You!
Patricia McGrath >?89;@==9:DqD'!53!/0, É5) # +( +) Moe Smyth :7<:@:=@:?DqD!*01.5D98D++0$DqD .+//D".+)D) 0$!./D! $ FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF DECEMBER 5-11, 2019 A19 SALT Gallery opens WENDY ZINTSMASTER Dick Matson exhibit Dec. 6 A full service real estate experience SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY We manage over 100 For the month of December, SALT properties in Key West with Gallery (830 Fleming St., www.saltisland- provisions.com) will feature a collection a variety of programs that of colorful oil paintings by beloved local can be customized artist Dick Matson. To celebrate Matson’s works, SALT will be hosting an opening to meet your needs. reception at the gallery from 5-7 p.m. on Whether your property Friday, Dec. 6. A Brooklyn native, Matson has lived requires a single monthly and worked in Key West for over 40 years. visit or is used as an After graduating from The Cooper Union investment to generate Art School in New York City and attend- ing graduate school at Yale University’s rental income, our School of Art in New Haven, Conn., Mat- personable staff is available son worked in advertising, but never left his love of painting behind. to provide the services required to ensure your home is well The majority of Matson’s works, cared for and successful in your absence. including the pieces at SALT, are done en plein air and feature the distinctive architecture and natural life found in Key West. His palette is clearly inspired by REAL ESTATE SALES the island’s color and light and over time he has become one of Key West’s most prominent artists. LUXURY VACATION RENTALS “Dick Matson is an absolute legend in the Key West art world,” says gallery PROPERTY MANAGEMENT owner Laura Richardson. “He’s a singular character and it’s an immense honor to feature an artist as talented as Dick on the LONG TERM RENTALS walls of our tiny gallery.” SALT Gallery features an eclectic col- lection of local art, local sea salts, jewelry, pottery, wine and Florida Keys honey. Gal- 421 United Street lery owners Maria Sharpe and Laura Rich- $1,299,000 ardson feature a new artist each month at SALT. Matson’s work will remain on Enjoy Old Town Key West and live display until the end of the month. For one block from the ocean and the more information, call 305-517-6088 or Southernmost Point in the U.S.A.! An open floor plan and light filled rooms visit www.saltislandprovisions.com. ■ COURTESY PHOTOS welcome you to this restored 3bd/2.5ba HISTORIC ELEGANCE conch classic. The first floor is perfect for entertaining a crowd with open spaces that flow graciously one into the other leading to a refreshing pool area and covered outdoor living space. 2nd floor features two bedrooms, full bath and a beautiful landing area lined with windows and wrapped in original Dade County Pine. The spacious 2nd floor balcony boasts a beautiful outdoor setting with a glimpse of the ocean just a half block away! The master offers the ultimate in privacy encompassing the entire 3rd floor with ensuite bath and walk in closet. Always an ocean breeze at this downtown gem sure to serve up a good time! 311 Elizabeth Street Get $3,950,000 Abundance in Old Town! This grand 9Bd, 5Ba historic home w/ guesthouse and pool underwent a More full renovation in 2015 to create a MAJESTIC uniquely designed floor plan offering website traffic endless possibilities. This luxury Old Town compound provides a unique investment opportunity with 2 transient & 1 non-transient rental license currently being professionally managed as a full time vacation rental business with over $375,000 of income annually. Offered turnkey furnished and in pristine condition, not a beat will be missed making this business opportunity and luxury real estate investment your own piece of Old Town Key West.
(305) 923-5935 [email protected] wendyzintsmaster.com Find out how we can help your business today with a FREE Print and Digital audit! YOUR SOUTHERNMOST FAMILY
www.FloridaWeekly.com/advertising-solutions 305.363.1310 Sales // Property Management // Rentals // Concierge 1205 Truman Avenue tKey West, FL Kellie Alpert Jessica Blass Kathleen Burns Bob Cardenas Debbie Cardenas
The real estate team you choose to represent your property should be as exceptional as you are, and your next journey. Matt Carlson Amanda Garcia
Ellen Gvili Gina Kennedy
For those ready for what’s next, there is only Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty. Let’s discuss your vision.
Michael Messina Everett Smith
Stacy Stahl Jenna Stauffer Karen Taporowski Vince Taporowski Russell Post
420 Fleming Street Key West, FL 33040 305.294.1117 oceansir.com