INSIDE
WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com Vol. 3, No. 5 • FREE
INSIDE Parade route, times and parties to enjoy. A10-11
Music The gypsy artist Kristen STANLEY McNamara. A16
COURTESY PHOTO The entrance to the Studios on Eaton Street. The Studios of Key West harnessing island’s creative energy Local focus
BY LAURA RICHARDSON Michael Geida talks Key West Florida Weekly Correspondent history. A6
Imagine, if you will, this all-too-famil- iar scenario: you’re on vacation hav- ing the time of your life, accumulating dozens of tiny drink umbrellas to add to your impressive collection and it’s not until you get to the airport and scope out the insanely depressing last-minute knick-knack shop that you realize dan- git! you completely forgot to pick up something to remember your trip to Key West by. We’ve all been there and we all know that an airbrushed T-shirt or a seashell Christmas ornament just isn’t going to cut it when you’re staring out your 43rd floor office window at the gray mist hovering above Lake Michigan Chomp down and wondering why you ever left Para- dise in the first place. And though Key Crocodile trapper to speak at West is typically associated with Spring Florida Keys Audubon Society. Break T-shirts and wind chimes made of A21 salvaged seashells, we have a lot more to offer in the artistic realm than the BY LAURA RICHARDSON average suitcase-friendly tchotchke. Out Florida Weekly Correspondent past the “Everything $5!” shops hawk- Kinetic ing shot glasses and the frozen daiquiri TROLL DOWN DUVAL STREET stands, there lies a vibrant and impact- THIS Saturday after- ful art scene overflowing with world- Sculpture noon and you may feel class talent and programming. And at like you’ve entered the the center of it all sits a pink and white Grinch’s worst Christmas striped building, once the home to the morning nightmare. The Scottish Masons, now the epicenter of Parade Sstreet will teem with tin- all things art-related on the island: The gling jing-tinglers, floo- Studios of Key West. floobers a-blowing, banging tar-tin- Over 10 years ago, The Studios of Key gears up kers and beating trum-tookas aplenty. West (known simply as The Studios to But no, we’re not in Whoville and Theater those in the know) was born out of a SEE PAPIO, A10 It’s anything but a drag at the SEE STUDIOS, A14 Waterfront Playhouse. A13 A2 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST OFF OFF DUVAL Editor Owen Killian The most traveled and visible street wife Lillah. The current building was rim-job. Lick it good. [email protected] in Key West is only the beginning, the built in 1894. Publisher surface, of what the town has to offer. Deuces “Off the Hook” Grill, 728 Niall Geoghegan Ask the locals about their favorite spots, The Reverend Long organized the Simonton St. 305-414-8428; www. [email protected] stroll through quiet neighborhoods or Bethel A.M.E Church in 1870 at 712 offthehookkeywest.com. Tucked in down alleyways off Duval and you’ll Duval St. It was destroyed by a fire in a quiet neighborhood, Off the Hook begin to dive deeper into the quieter, 1922 and the congregation then moved serves breakfast and lunch, but the cre- Reporters more diverse and less readily apparent to the corner of Thomas Street. and ative and well-executed dinner menu Bucky Montgomery offerings. Here are nine spots that you Truman Avenue. The building features featuring fresh seafood is especially Laura Richardson might not see at first glance. masonry walls, twin towers in front and enticing. Grouper in a French bouilla- Jennifer White pointed-arch windows reminiscent of baisse broth, Fish and Chips featuring Presentation Editor The Café, 509 Southard St. 305-296- the Gothic Revival Style. mahi-mahi, and slow roasted Jamaican Eric Raddatz 5515; www.thecafekw.com. This cozy, Jerk chicken thighs are recommend- [email protected] innovative restaurant has been redefin- Key West Island Bookstore, 513 ed along with dark chocolate covered ing vegetarian cuisine for over 13 years. Fleming St. www.Keywestisland- banana bread for dessert. The Duck Assistant Presentation Editor With a warm Bohemian décor that books.com, 305-294-2904. This BLT pizza is also delicious. It’s a small Hannah Kruse includes local art adorning the walls, its decades-old boutique bookstore offers a space so reservations are recommend- menu offers a variety of options to suit surprisingly varied wealth of current and ed. Production Manager all tastes along with craft beers, organic used titles, from best sellers to rare titles. Alisa Bowman wines and an array of sangria flavors Often open late, it’s an inviting place to La Rubia Fine Hats, 510 Fleming St. [email protected] plus fresh juices, flavored house-made browse among the crowded stacks. 305-296-6059; www.larubiakeywest. tonics or Café kombucha on tap. Omni- com. The Florida Keys’ only importer Graphic Designers vores will appreciate seafood dishes like Cuban Coffee Queen, 284 Marga- of authentic Panama hats. The owners Chris Andruskiewicz blackened mahi-mahi and P.E.I. mussels. ret St. 305-292-4747; www.cubancof- developed this boutique to carry on the Paul Heinrich • Scott Sleeper The famous veggie burger is not to be feequeen.com. The strong Cuban cof- centuries-old tradition of hand weaving missed along with the falafel, house-made fee at this hole in the wall is also rich in hats, which come from Ecuador and not Circulation Manager spring rolls, quinoa and avocado salad, Key West heritage. A Café Con Leche Panama, by the way. There are styles Michael Gagliardi stir-fries or fresh fish chimichurri tacos. paired with a classic Cuban sandwich or for both men and women in a wide [email protected] Finish with vegan key lime cheesecake some Havana rice and beans will keep array of colors and weaves. They also Business Office Manager or vegan carrot cake. Everything is made you going long into a Key West night. offer a nice selection of wearable, fair Kelli Carico from scratch, so be sure to check out the trade crafts such as jewelry, ikat wraps nightly specials. The Café also has an Better than Sex, 926 Simonton and shigra bags. extensive weekend brunch menu with St. 305-296-8102; www.betterthan- Published by bottomless mimosas. Grab a comfy, col- sexkeywest.com). A great place for Little Pearl, 632 Olivia St. 305- Florida Media Group LLC orful seat in front of the window, or opt couples. Swing by this dessert only, 204-4762; www.littlepearlkeywest. 100 Grinnell Street • Key West, FL 33040 for takeout. They even deliver. adults only restaurant late in the eve- com. Nestled in the heart of Old Town 305.363.1310 ning. Indulge your senses with choco- Key West and away from the bustling www.FloridaWeekly.com Cornish Memorial African Meth- late-dipped wine glasses and cheeky, downtown streets sits an excellent spot odist Episcopal Zion Church, 702 homemade desserts and beverages such for fresh local catch and innovative Whitehead St. Established in 1864 by as an Ephemere Apple Spiced Ale in a cuisine with a tropical twist. It’s new, Copyright: The contents of the Florida Weekly are copyright 2017 former slave Sandy Cornish and his tall beer glass with a signature caramel it’s hot and reservations are required. ■ by Florida Media Group, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without the express written consent of Florida Media Group, LLC.
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Getting around Key West
1. Southernmost Point about and hour or two before sunset and includes coexist in this climate-controlled, glass-enclosed 11. Audubon House and Garden The corner of South Street and Whitehead Street street performers, local artisans, food carts, palmists habitat that includes waterfalls, fl owering plants and 205 Whitehead Street www.southernmostpointwebcam.com and psychics. trees. 305-294-2116 The city of Key West erected this now famous 5. Truman Little White House 8. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum www.Audubonhouse.com concrete buoy in 1983 to denote the southernmost 111 Front St. 200 Greene St., Key West Original lithographs by John James Audubon are on point in the continential United States. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com 305-294-2633 display the former home of shipwreck salvager Captain 2. Conch Tour Train The Little White House adds a presidential luster to www.melfi sher.org John Geiger. 303 Front St., Key West the Conch Republic. Originally built for Naval offi cers in Exhibits include treasures from the Spanish 12. Key West City Cemetery 305-294-5161 or 888-916-8687 1890 and used as a command headquarters in three galleons of 1622 discovered by Mel Fisher and his Bordered by Angela, Frances, Olivia Streets wars, the Little White House later served as lodging for crew. and Windsor Lane www.conchtourtrain.com President Harry S. Truman’s winter retreats from 1946 The Conch Train has been winding its way through to 1952. 9. Mile Marker 0 Sign 305-292-6718 the streets of Key West since 1958. 490 Whitehead St., corner of Fleming Street www.Friendsofthekeywestcemetary.com 6. The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum 3. Sloppy Joe’s U.S. 1 begins here in Key West, continues 2,369 Stop by the sexton’s offi ce near the entrance at 907 Whitehead St., Key West Passover Lane and Windsor Lane for a map containing 201 Duval St. miles north up the East Coast, and ends in Fort Kent, 305-294-1136 Maine. Stop here to commemorate your visit to Key a free walking tour. 305-294-5717 www.hemingwayhome.com West with a photo next to the iconic Mile Marker 0 13. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Beach www.sloppyjoes.com sign. Take the tour and say hello to one of the 40 to 50 Located at the ocean end of Southard Street and The historic bar has been a Key West tradition six-toed cats, all descendants of Hemingway’s cat, 10. Key West Express Ferry Terminal bordering the Naval Reservation. since it opened in 1933. Its most famous patrons Snowball. were Ernest Hemmingway and the rum runner 100 Grinnell Street 305-295-0037 Habana Joe. 7. The Key West Butterfl y 239-463-5733 www.Fortzacharytaylor.com & Nature Conservatory “Fort Zach” is known to locals and tourists alike 4. Mallory Square Sunset Celebration www.Keywestexpress.net 1316 Duval St., Key West as one of Key West’s best beaches. In addition to the 1 Whitehead St., Key West Traveling via the Express is truly the best way to 305-296-2988 or 800-839-4647 get between Key West, Fort Myers Beach or Marco expansive beach, there are nature trails, bike paths, 786-565-7448 www.keywestbutterfl y.com Island. You’ll enjoy air-conditioned interiors, exterior and Historic Fort Zachary Taylor all within a 54-acre park with picnic tables and grills. Experience the www.sunsetcelebration.org More than 50 different butterfl y species from sun decks, couches, tables and even reclining airline- beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Key West This nightly festival begins at the water’s edge around the world and 20 different exotic bird species style seating. There’s a full-service galley, full-service bar and fl at-screen TVs with satellite television. Shipping Channel. ■
A6 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST LOCAL FOCUS Michael Geida talks Key West history
BY JENNIFER WHITE the organization,” Michael says, “It’s a Florida Weekly Correspondent diverse job with an abundance of pro- grams.” Some folks come to Key West for the The nonprofit that is reliant on fund- bars, the beaches, the music or the food, raising and donations began by preserv- but others like, Michael Gieda, come ing and restoring the Custom House for the history. He took one look at the Museum next to Mallory Square, and islands, “fell head over heels in love then the Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quar- with the Florida Keys” and promptly ters Museum across from the Heming- made the move down from Trucksville, way House, the East Martello Tower Pa., along with his wife, their two chil- near the airport and it also has respon- dren and their dog whom they affection- sibility for the Tennessee Williams The- ately named Bowie. ater on Stock Island. They are all land- “It’s Key West history, Florida Keys marks in the community. history, the state’s history and the “The East Martello Tower was built nation’s history,” he muses of the Cus- around the time of the civil war but was toms House pivotal significance. We never completed because the type of are meeting in his office at the Customs cannons that were built in the civil war House, an impressive building with made its use obsolete, so it became a slanted roofs that is home to the Key surplus property for storage, barracks, West Art and Historical Society. and a training facility,” he says. “In 1950 Michael discovered his passion for it became the first museum of Key West. the past while traveling around the The hurricane of 1847 destroyed the country “Kerouac” style and taking a original lighthouse, so a second was break from college. In other words, he built inland on higher ground. What’s dropped out. Every bit the modern- day important about it is that it is one of the romantic, his eye-opening adventure only lighthouses that was mostly tended on the road eventually led him back by women. The innkeeper was in her into the classroom where he pursued 80s and had to climb up the 88 steps a masters in secondary social studies wearing what women had to wear back education followed by a short stint as then. It was decommissioned with the a teacher at a charter school, and ulti- arrival of Navy Systems. In 1969 the Art mately leading to his passion for history and Historical Society assumed man- and education. JENNIFER WHITE / FLORIDA WEEKLY agement and in the 1980s made a restor- Since then, he started as director of Michael Geida, executive director of the Key West Art and Historical Society. ative effort to make it what it looked like communications, then moved too assis- it did in the 1800s. tant director and is now the executive House. Here he gets to live his dream “in and “informing people of the history and The Customs House was erected in director of the Key West Art and Histori- a historical building, looking out of the importance of Key West.” the 1800s at a time when Key West had cal Society with an office in the Customs window at the ocean and palm trees” “My role is overall management of one of the richest economies in the
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KEVIN DOWNEY JR. TICKETS Kevin Downey Jr. grew up in Detroit, Michigan. He made his TV debut at age six on CKLW’s “The $ Bozo Show” where he won a hockey stick, a 12-pack of Orange Crush and some Tootsie Rolls 15 playing, The Bug Game. Kevin has headlined clubs everywhere in the U.S. and can be heard The Customs House is home to the Key West Art and Historical Society. regularly on “The Bob and Tom Show”, as well as, Sirius and XM Satellite radio. Kevin is also a proud member of Armed Forces Entertainment and he travels the world performing for the troops. county due to a high volume of trade role in the development of our region He’s also appeared on “Comedy Central”, “What Not to Wear” and “Queer Eye for the Straight Guy.” and commerce. and our nation. Kevin appears at the Trop’s “Comedy Stop” in Las Vegas at least four times a year. The sinking of the U.S.S. Maine led “A lot of people see this place as a Kevin Downey Jr. and Danny Bevins will to the Spanish-American war. Then the party town — which it is, but it has a lot pe orm with local Key West comedians at Navy came in and destroyed the building of history as well.” and turned it into something functional Visit the Customs House at 281 Front the Downward Dog Comedy Showcase at… instead of fashion- Street, the Light- THE BOTTLECAP’S BLUE ROOM q 1128 SIMONTON STREET able. It sat aban- house and Keep- doned for three ers Quarters at 938 decades and in the Whitehead Street ComeC DANNY BEVINS 1980s the Society and the East Mar- May 10th & 11th took it over. tello Tower at 3501 See Once upon a time a Jesus freak (his mother) and a Green Beret (his “For a period of nine years we put South Roosevelt, all open from 9:30 a.m. father) fell in love, got married and during an act of recreational $9,000,000 worth of restoration into it. until 4:30 p.m. and check for upcom- afternoon delight forgot to use protection. Nine months later a We still put $250,000 to $500,000 a year ing shows at the Tennessee Williams comedian was born. Since then he’s been arrested, fined, fired, into it for just upkeep,” he says. Theater by visiting it at www.twstages. beaten up and excommunicated while being called a juvenile Michael finishes by saying that the com. ■ delinquent, soldier, flight attendant, patient, husband, father and lately “disturbingly hilarious”. history of Key West plays an integral FOR MORE INFO VISIT WWW.COMEDYKEYWEST.COM A8 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 FLORIDA WEEKLY CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Check the schedule at SPECIAL EVENTS www.Theporchkw.com “Cry it Out” Green Parrot Bar May 3, 4 and 5, 8 p.m. 601 Whitehead St. The Red Barn Theatre Live Music Nightly 319 Duval St. Check the schedule at AT THE KEY WEST THEATER www.redbarntheatre.com www.greenparrot.com “The Legend of Georgia Smoking Tuna McBride” 4 Charles St. May 3, 4, 5 and 9, 8 p.m. Live Music Nightly The Waterfront Playhouse Check the schedule at 407 Wall St. www.smokingtunasaloon.com www.waterfrontplayhouse.org Sloppy Joes “Legally Blonde, Jr.” 201 Duval St. May 4, 5, 6, 7 p.m. Live Music Nightly May 5, 2 p.m. Check the schedule at 05.14 STEVE EARLE 05.19 CARBON LEAF The Key West Theater www.sloppyjoes.com & THE DUKES 512 Eaton St. Irish Kevin’s Tickets available at 211 Duval St. www.thekeywesttheater.com Live Music Nightly Kentucky Derby Party Check the schedule at May 5, 2 p.m. www.irishkevins.com Sidebar at Aqua Mary Ellen’s 504 Angela St. 420 Appelrouth Lane www.sidebarkeywest.com Open Mic with Comedy Key West, Monday’s, 9 p.m. 05.26 HOWIE MANDEL 06.01 PATTY SMYTH Drunken Spelling Bee, First Monday & SCANDAL of each month, 9 p.m. Trivia, Tuesday Nights, 6:30 p.m. SIN Night (Service Industry Night), Wednesdays 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. COMEDY Comedy Open Mic Night Mondays, 9 p.m. 09.30 LOUIE ANDERSON 10.14 WHO’S BAD Mary Ellen’s Bar and Restaurant THE ULTIMATE MICHAEL JACKSON EXPERIENCE 420 Appelrouth Lane Comedy Key West PHOTOGRAPHY Thursdays and Fridays, 7:30 to 10 p.m. The Blue Room Photographs from the 1128 Simonton St. permanent collection Tickets available at Ongoing www.comedykeywest.com Key West Art and Historical Society Custom House 281 Front St. 11.17 OTTMAR LIEBERT 11.15 THUNDER FROM www.Kwahs.org DOWN UNDER Homegrown Photographs by Michael Marrero Ongoing Gallery on Greene 606 Greene St. MUSIC www.galleryongreene.com Berlin’s Cigar and Cocktail Lounge CINEMA 11.16 LIVINGSTON TAYLOR 11.28 KINGSTON TRIO A&B Lobster House Tropic Cinema 700 Front St. LEGACY TOUR 416 Eaton St. Bria Ansara, Fridays and Saturdays, www.tropiccinema.com 7 to 10 p.m. Check the website for ongoing films The Porch 429 Caroline St.
12.17 PAULA 12.16 A JOHN WATERS POUNDSTONE CHRISTMAS SHOW FOR THE FULL LINE-UP VISIT: WWW.THEKEYWESTTHEATER.COM /KEYWESTTHEATER @KWTHEATER @KEYWESTTHEATER
COURTESY PHOTOS Two women in a shared back yard — with baby monitors and coffee mugs in hand — find mutual longed-for companionship as they weave their respective ways through the landscape of new motherhood. “Cry it Out,” May 3, 4 and 5, 8 p.m., The Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval St., www.redbarntheatre.com. FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A9 CALENDAR OF EVENTS #KW LGBT Aqua Nightclub 711 Duval St. Aqua Idol for the VFW Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Drag Shows Nightly, 7 and 9 p.m. Karaoke Monday through 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 Bourbon St. Pub 724 Duval St. Just Jeff (Moss), Thursdays through Sundays, 8 to 10 p.m. Bria, Monday through Wednesdays 8 to 10 p.m. ■ Get your hats and outfits ready for the Kentucky Derby Ronnie, Mondays through Wednes- Party, May 5, 2 p.m., Sidebar at Aqua, 504 Angela St. days, 3 to 8 p.m. The Men of Bourbon, Nightly — www.sidebarkeywest.com 5.5 www.BourbonSt.pub.com 801 Bourbon Bar 801 Duval St. Drag Shows, Nightly, 9 and 11 p.m. 5.3-5,9 Happy Hour Drag, 5 p.m. Saturdays Drag Karaoke, 4 p.m. Sundays Messy Mondays with Mulysa, 1 a.m. Mondays Fierce and Fabulous/Dragalicious, 1 a.m. Wednesdays www.801bourbon.com ■ Get drunk and try to spell words Island House at the Drunken Spelling Bee, 1129 Fleming St. www.Islandhousekeywest.com May 7, 9 p.m., at Mary Ellen’s, 420 Appelrouth Lane. La Te Da 1125 Duval St. 5.7 Christopher Peterson, May 8, 9 p.m. Randy Roberts, May 3 and 5, 9 p.m., Sundays 4 to 6:30 p.m. ■ This comedy ■ Key West High School Drama Club presents the all-ages www.Lateda.com has three show “Legally Blonde, Jr.”, May 4, 5, 6, 7 p.m., May 5, 2 things folks p.m., The Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St. love about Key — www.thekeywesttheater.com West: an Elvis impersonator, big laughs and drag queens. See “The Legend AROUND KEY WEST of Georgia McBride,” May 3, 4, Ghost Tours and Ghost Hunts 5 and 9, 8 p.m., The Waterfront Nightly Playhouse, 407 Wall St. 301 Whitehead St. and 1102 Duval St. 305-395-1435 — www.waterfrontplayhouse.org www.hauntedkeywest.com ■ 5.4-7 A10 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST PAPIO From page 1 you’re not hallucinating. This crazy col- lection of colorful creations is the Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade, a moving dis- play of kinetic artwork so whimsical and creative it could only have been thought up by a modern-day Dr. Seuss by the name of Stanley Papio (more on that later). Look closely at the floats’ con- struction and you’ll see dozens of pieces of trash and parts repurposed from abandoned bicycles and other manner of machinery. Today, the old adage is true: One man’s trash really is another man’s treasure and these treasures are truly a sight to behold. After a smashing debut in 2016 and an even more enthusiastic turnout for 2017’s event, the Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade has returned to inspire artists across the island to follow in the foot- steps of the rebel sculptor, whose refus- al to conform to society’s ideas regard- ing art and social norms, paired with a legacy of interactive, whimsical sculp- tures, inspired the Key West Art & His- torical Society and Wonderdog Studios to mount a kinetic parade in the artist’s honor. Conceived in coordination with the KWAHS’s taking over ownership of Papio’s sculpture collection, the bulk of which is now installed at historic COURTESY PHOTO Fort East Martello, 2016’s Papio Kinetic The parade begins at the Custom House Museum. Sculpture Parade kicked off with a bang — or, rather, with a series of creaking era peace train, and a bubble-spewing gears, cogs, and cheers — when over 30 underwater scene on wheels. human-powered sculptures made their After two years of explosive kinetic way down Duval Street 2017’s parade creativity, expectations for this year’s saw at least two dozen works of art parade are running high, with local art- rolling from the Custom House to the ists calling out across social media chan- Southernmost on the Beach. Many nels for help amassing recycled materi- participants incorporated Key West’s als to pay homage to Papio’s thrifty favorite mode of transportation, utiliz- style. And as Key West’s various mas- ing bicycles to power a series of fantas- querades and festivals have continued tical floats, including a life-size replica to skew toward the adult end of things, of Max’s sailboat from “Where the Wild the Papio parade stands out as one of Things Are,” a rotating carousel, a ’60s the few truly family-friendly events in Key West that encourages artistic cre- ativity and collaborative engineering — a far cry from the perfunctory bouncy house and face painting set-up at most events in town. “The Key West Art & Historical Society is thrilled to host the third annual Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade,” says Key West Art & Histori- cal Society Executive Director Michael Gieda. “This family-friendly parade is a The parade route continues down Duval Street. perfect way to celebrate the creative and rebellious spirit of legendary Florida and “Greedy Grit the Contractor” were Keys folk artist Stanley Papio.” placed prominently at his property’s In the years since his death in 1982, roadside, drawing the eyes of both his Papio is remembered for being as prolif- detractors and new fans. ic an artist as he was divisive a neighbor. In time, like so many great rebel art- After completing his service as a welder ists before him, the increasing levels during World War II, Papio returned to of ire that Papio’s work provoked were Papio Kinetic Sculpture the United States and chose to settle responsible for a growing community down in Key Largo. He purchased a of artistic supporters who appreciated Parade small plot of land, where he promptly the works Papio continued to display >> When: May 4-6 opened up his own welding shop and in his newly-rechristened Stanley’s Art >> Where: Key West Custom House, 281 Museum. A 25-cent admission fee gave Front St. began to build a name for himself as visitors entry to what had become a Friday, May 4 an in-demand tradesman. Never one 6 to 7 p.m. – Distinguished Speaker Se- to see good material go to waste, he bona fide roadside attraction, with local ries talk by famed kinetic artist Steve King, encouraged people passing by his prop- travel tours adding his museum to their on kinetic art and Stanley Papio erty to drop off their junk metal — old itineraries not long after. 7 to 8 p.m. - Reception on the porch of cars, broken dishwashers, rain gutters, Museums and private collectors came the Custom House bits of wire — anything that he could calling, and Papio began to exhibit his take apart and re-weld. For many years, work outside the junkyard, including a Saturday, May 5 Papio remained blissfully alone with his European tour in 1981 as part of the U.S. 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. – Parade lineup between mountains of scrap, until encroaching State Department’s exhibition America Margaritaville Resort and the Custom House Stanley Papio. Now. Papio’s name was recorded in 5 p.m. - Parade kicks off in front of Custom developments brought neighbors close encyclopedias of native and folk art and House and proceeds down Duval Street to enough to take notice of his unusual Southard Street, then to Truman Waterfront yard decor. His new neighbors were less and local code enforcement officers offers to buy his sculptures climbed Park Amphitheater than enthusiastic; they viewed Papio’s and, instead, began to repurpose the into the thousands. At the height of his 5:30 p.m. – Cinco de Papio Family-Friend- property as blight on the increasingly various mounds of scrap into fantastical career, Papio began plans for a nation- ly Party begins with DJ Untamed Shane upscale landscape, and they demanded works of art. Old cars and twisted lumps wide tour — until, at the age of 67, a 6:30 p.m. – Awards ceremony begins he remove the junk from his yard. When of rebar were reborn as enormous satiri- sudden heart attack cut his blooming 7:30 p.m. – Poi Dog Pondering takes the he refused to comply, they had him cal sculptures. A self-taught artist, his career short. stage repeatedly arrested for code violations. After his untimely death, Papio’s fami- whimsical designs quickly improved Papio, who in his youth had enjoyed ly decided to donate his work to the Key Sunday, May 6: and over time became politicized, as West Art & Historical society, which has 9:30 am.-4:30 p.m. - Free admission to amateur careers in boxing and wres- he was relentlessly harassed to dis- now installed more than 100 pieces at Fort East Martello all day tling, was not one to bow down in the continue his work. Anthropomorphized face of a fight. He ignored the increas- car hoods and refrigerator bodies with the East Martello Museum here in Key ingly adamant demands of his neighbors titles such as “Local Hassles No. 1” West. It is in memory of this iconic Keys artist’s wacky and wonderful career that FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A11 the inaugural Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade was created. A lover and defend- er of art that seeks to amuse, inspire and stand up to those who might deem it otherwise lowbrow, Papio’s legacy will live on in the inevitably eccentric entries to this year’s parade. Kinetic sculptures are, for those unfamiliar with the art form, human- powered art that moves. Forget the pickup truck-pulled floats of Fantasy Fest; a kinetic sculpture is built around bikes, wheeled platforms, hand-pedaled cruisers or any other kind of people- powered base. These ingenious cre- ations mix wheels with whimsy, and with kinetic parades being staged year-round across the globe, it’s clear that they’re a guaranteed good time. Parade themes and rules vary from place to place; some even specify that the sculptures be amphibious, or attempt (and rarely succeed, to great amusement) to become airborne. Uni- cycles, bicycles, tricycles, quadricy- cles, skate boards, little red wagons — the list of possible sculpture bases goes on and on, making it easy for people to cobble together a sculpture without spending a fortune. (For those roughly no taller than 11 feet. There Amphitheater for the inaugural “Cinco drink tickets and a signed Poi Dog Pon- feeling especially ambitious, the East are no limits on the number of team de Papio Family-Friendly Party.” The dering poster. Parade entrants get free Coast Kinetic Sculpture Race Cham- members who may participate, and the Papio Kinetic Parade After Party Festi- general admission entry to the festival pionships are held each year in central establishment of separate categories for val & Concert will feature DJ Untamed and concert. More information about Maryland, where participants’ kinetic either art bicycles or kinetic sculptures Shane followed by Poi Dog Pondering, the after party can be found and tickets sculptures must traverse 14 miles of is sure to produce a wide variety of an eclectic outfit of “musical voyag- can be purchased online at http://www. pavement, sand, mud, and the waters of work, including rumored double-decker ers” that combines rock, soul, folk and papioskineticparade.com/concert. Chesapeake Bay.) Thankfully, the Key and four-wheeled creations from a few electronica to ear-pleasing effect. There The KWAHS will also host a lecture West kinetic parade’s 1.5-mile road trek local artists known to impress. will also be food trucks for the famished on Papio’s legacy by notable parade is far less strenuous, and the require- On Saturday beginning at 3 p.m., sculp- (parade-watching always makes me rav- contributor Steve King and an all-ages ments for participating floats mercifully tors both amateur and advanced will enous), a kids’ zone with face-painting party on Friday night from 6-8 p.m. loose: there are no thematic mandates, gather at the Key West Custom House and a recycled art workshop and a dis- during which those who haven’t already no minimum speed one must be able to push, pedal or otherwise propel their play area for all of the floats. General can pre-register for Saturday’s parade. to achieve while parading down Duval. art down Duval Street until they reach admission tickets run $25, while VIP Those who aren’t interested in submit- The only prerequisite is that each float Southard Street, whereupon they will tickets run $75 and ensure the bearer ting an art bike or kinetic sculpture can or art bike be human-powered and be divert course and head for the newly VIP front row section seating, access also sign up to volunteer for the event. ■ constructed Truman Waterfront Park to a private VIP “lounge” and bar, two A12 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 wwwwww.FloridaWeekly.com.FloridaWeekl FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST KEY WEST HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Key West HAPPY HOUR GUIDE brought to you by: CRAZY LADY Brewed iinn KeyWest, HONEYHO BLONDE ALE ThisThThi blonde ale brewed with local honey is good as it gets. A niniceicee clean ale with a subtle honey-like sweetness that lingers Drank ! jujustustt long enough. Very drinkable and smooth. A perfect beer in the frffromromom Key West, brewed at The Waterfront Brewery. Keys
Your guide to where the locals go for The Grand The Perry Hotel beers happy hour drink and food specials. 314 Duval St. 7001 Shrimp Road $1 off draft beer and wine by the glass Alonzo’s 5-7:30 p.m. Stock Island $6 cocktail specials daily 700 Front St. Half price wine, cocktails and beer Salty Oyster Dockside Bar and Grill Happy hour menu and late-night 4-6:30 p.m. Half price appetizers 4-6 Daily menu Half-price appetizers www.grandcafekeywest.com Half off all food and premium drinks Check the websites for details www.alonzoysterbar.com Half Shell Raw Bar Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen and Bar www.Squaregroupbarandgrill.com 231 Margaret St. 6-8 Daily www.Mynewjoint420lounge.com Aqua $3 drafts, $6 cocktails and wine, 711 Duval St. 4:30-6:30 p.m. Sunset Tiki Bar at the Galleon ResorResortt 2-for-1 drink specials $2 oysters, $5 appetizers and crudo 617 Front St. 2-6 p.m. www.perrykeywest.com $5 well drinks, $3.75 domestic beers Special happy hour food menu 10 a.m.-noon (except Sundays) www.aquakeywest.com www.Halfshellrawbar.com Pinchers Crab Shack 2-for-1 Bloody Marys 712 Duval St. 4-7 p.m. daily Bagatelle Hard Rock Café 313 Duval St. 3-6 p.m. 2-for-1 Margaritas or well drinks 115 Duval St. Oysters, clams, shrimp, wings www.Galleonresort.com 4-6 p.m. 5-7 and 10 to closing Half price appetizers and drinks 99 cents each Tattoos and Scars Half-price drinks www.Pinchersusa.com $5 appetizers www.hardrockcafe/keywesty 512 Greene St. www.Bagatellekeywest.com Hogfish Bar and Grill The Porch Stella on draft $4 all day 6810 Front Street 429 Caroline St. www.Tattoosandscarssaloon.com Blackfin 4:30-6:30 p.m. 918 Duval St. 4-6 p.m. Tiki House Drink specials and special happy $2 off draft beer and wine by the glass 430 Greene St. 4:30-6:30 p.m. www.Theporchkw.com $7 menu hour menu 4-6 p.m. www.blackfinbistro.com www.Hogfishbar.com The Roost 2 for 1 wells, drafts and Zombies 508 Fleming St. www.tikihousekw.com Blue Macaw Island Eats and Bar Island Dogs Bar 505 Front St. 3 to 6 p.m. Turtle Kraals 804 Whitehead St. $10 Stoli Elite Martinis Every day with live music 4-6:30 p.m. Mondaydth through Friday 231 Margaret St. 4-7 p.m. Half-price well drinks, bottled beer Roostica Pizzeria 4:30-6:30 p.m. $3 well drinks, domestic beers and and wine by the glass 5620 MacDonald Avenue Half off bottled beers, well drinks and house wines Half-price oysters, special $5.95 menu 4-6 p.m. house wines www.Bluemacawkeywest.com www.Islanddogsbar.com Drink specials and special happy Special happy hour menu Little Room Jazz Club hour menu www.Turtlekraals.com Boathouse Bar and Grill www.Roostica.com 400 Greene St., #408 821 Duval St. Two Friends Patio Restaurant 4-6 p.m. 3-8 p.m. Sand Bar Sports Grill 512 Front St. Half-price well drinks and beers $4 Craft Your Own Aperitif Cocktail, 511 Greene St. 4-6 p.m. www.Boathousebarandgrill.com 2 for $8 wines, 2 for $5 beers. Check the website for dildaily specials Early bird dinner specials www.Littleroomjazzclub.com Sandbarkeywest.com www.Twofriendskw.com Bobby’s Monkey Bar Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar and www.Sand Bar Sports Grill Key West Vinos on Duval Noon-8 p.m. on Facebook $3 well drinks Restaurant 810 Duval $2.50 domestic beers 320 Grinnell Street Santiago’s Bodega 4-7 p.m. $3 imports 4-7 p.m. 207 Petronia St. $5 Sangria $2 Pringles and $2 Slim JJims Half off appetizers, $3 well drinks, 3-6 p.m. Sundays draft beer and house wine Half-price drinks $5 mimosas Conch Republic Seafood www.Keywest.lucysretiredsurfers.com $5 tapas www.Vinosonduval.com 631 Greene St. www.Santiagosbodega.com 4-7 p.m. Martin’s Viva Saloon 2-for-1 drink specials 917 Duval Sidebar at Aqua 903 Duval St. www.Conchrepublicseafood.com 4-6 p.m. 504 Angela St. 4-6 p.m. Half-price drinks and tapas 4-8 p.m. $3 well drinks, $1 off all beer and Dante’s www.Martinskeywest.com $5 well drinks, $3.75 domestic beers house wine, $5 appetizers 951 Caroline St. 9-close, Monday, Tuesday, Wednes www.Vivakeywest.com Monday through Friday Mary Ellen’s Bar 420 Appelrouth Lane day, drink specials The Waterfront Brewery 4-8 p.m. www.sidebarkeywest.com Half off domestic beers and well 3-6 p.m. 201 William St. drinks 2-4-1 wells and drafts, $5 Jameson, $5 Southernmost Beach Café Daily 4 to 6:30 p.m. $3.50 Jagermeister and Fireball Titos 1405 Duval St. All Waterfront Brewery Beer and $4 Jameson www.maryellensbar.com Sunday through Thursdayy wines by the glass half off. www.Danteskeywest.com Old Town Mexican Café $5 small bites bar men, $5 draft beer, www.thewaterfrontbrewery.comm house wine, well drinks and house Geiger Key Marina 609 Duval St. Willie T’s Restaurant and Bar 4 -7 p.m. margaritas www.Southernmost 525 Duval St. 5 Geiger Road beachcafe.com 4-6 p.m. Half-price appetizers 4-7 p.m. Drink specials and special happy Half-price beer, wine and well drinks Square Grouper Bar and Grill Daily drink specials hour menu Pepe’s and My New Joint Upstairs. www.Williets.com www.Geigerkeymarina.comrina.com 806 Caroline St. 22658 Overseas Highway, Cudjoedj KKey Wine-O at La Concha Hotel Square Grouper Green Parrot Bar 4-6 p.m. 430 Duval St. Half-price raw and baked oysters 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Tuesday through Daily 601 Whitehead St. Saturday 4-7 p.m. Monday throughhrough TThursday $5 fresh-squeezed Margaritas Buy one, get one free on selected Discounted well drinks, beer Lunch Specials and $7 well drinks glasses of wine 4-5:30 p.m. Fridays My New Joint Discounts on selected drinks and wine www.Laconchakeywest.com ■ www.Pepeskeywest.com 4:20-6:30 p.m. and beers 25 percent off bottled and canned www.Greenparrot.com Replenish. Rejuvinate. Revive. ivsinthekeys.comt 531 Whitehead Street Key West, FL t305-395-8245 FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A13 It’s anything but a drag at the Waterfront Playhouse SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY
Poor Casey. He’s just been fired from his job as an Elvis impersonator in a dive bar in the panhandle of Florida. But wait! There’s more… his wife is pregnant, the NEW - USED - RARE rent is due and unpaid bills are piling up. # What’s a young dude to do? What else but 6]UJMZ 1 trade in his Elvis jumpsuit for a sparkly GRADUATION dress, lip-sync some Shania and become 3Ma4QUM8QM the hottest drag act in the Southeast. It’s a IN THE FLORIDA KEYS BOOKS tale as old as time. Sort of. -Miami New Times 4/2017 The Waterfront Playhouse will close their 2017/18 season with “The Legend of Georgia McBride” by Matthew Lopez, one of the most uplifting comedies you’ll experience. This 85-minute play with COURTESY PHOTO music is a celebration of finding your true voice. Variety called the play, “a delight- In addition to the great Christopher ful, gender-bending farce… funny and Peterson who plays Miss Tracy Mills, the often glorious. Lopez delivers a strong cast includes New York actor Nate Janis, message on tolerance for the entire spec- who has been brought in to play the mul- trum of human sexuality, while creating a tifaceted role of Casey. Phillip Cole White barrelful of fun in the process.” — ariety. performs the dual roles of Rexy and Jason. Director Danny Weathers said, “I fell Phillip had a recent triumph as Hedwig in love with this beautiful script the first in “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” at the time I read it. It’s smart, hilarious and Key West Theater. Simoné Elizabeth Bart Getting ready for full of heart. Plus, the show has three will play Casey’s wife, Jo. Ms. Bart was commencement of Key West’s favorite things: fabulous in the Waterfront’s hit “Good People” drag queens, great music and Christopher last season. Finally, there’s John Reynolds )Z\Q[IV*ZMIL[8I[\ZQM[ time! Peterson. And I could not have asked for a who plays the bar owner, Eddie. John has ;IVL_QKPM[WV.ZM[P*ZMIL better cast and crew — they’ve been a joy appeared at the Waterfront in “Enchanted /W]ZUM\+PMM[M[ We’ve collected some of the ]MM
VISIT US IN KEY WEST! FREE PARKING behind 712 Duval • 305.440.2179 the restaurant for patrons! OFF Or check out our other 8 SWFL LOCATIONS! YOUR ENTIRE BILL! A14 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST
& Eats” parties, offering up an exclu- sive peek into the homes and studios STUDIOS of some of Key West’s most renowned From page 1 creatives and patrons. The organization continues to balance the pressure to utilize the local arts scene of Key West, simple but vital necessity: to preserve employing Key West resident artists affordable artist housing so that creative to teach almost half its classes, while brains of all mediums could continue also making sure that fresh outsider to make art on an ever-increasingly voices are given a platform from which expensive island. (A worthy cause, no to share their knowledge by having out doubt, which has only increased in its of town visiting artists teach workshops importance over the years — a 2014 or participate in artist talks during their report listed that Key West had official- residencies. ly surpassed New York as the fifth most Recognized for their efforts in bring- expensive city in the U.S. for entry-level ing high caliber art to the commu- apartment rentals.) nity, The Studios has been credited For Peyton Alexander, former journal- as the creative heart of Key West by ist and Key West artist, there was no publications such as The New York reason that Key West couldn’t house an Times, Lonely Planet and CNN Inter- iconic artist’s retreat, on par with Yaddo national. Recent performances have or the MacDowell Colony. Between 2001 COURTESY PHOTO included groundbreaking and non-tradi- and 2006, Peyton and a small group of The gallery at The Studios hosts local Key West artists. tional theatre and dance acts, including like-minded local patrons, profession- a comedic opera troupe, an exhibition of ners open to the public, visitors are art being created inside its walls, in als, artists and civic leaders formulated Nepalese Quilts with proceeds to ben- invited to meet current artists in resi- 2015 they moved into their new home, a plan for a series of studios in Key efit a children’s charity, a provocative dence and tour their respective studios, a 14,000-square-foot pink and white West that would remain free and open installation by the three-man Cuban art offering the opportunity for intimate striped monolith located steps away to those dedicated to expanding the collective “Stainless,” a circus camp for dialogue between the artists and their from Duval Street at 533 Eaton St. The island’s art collective. These Key West local children, and a one-woman perfor- public. Thanks to its alluring location, building features a 200-seat theatre, studios would bring together artists mance by long distance swimmer Diana The Studios’ Key West residency now multiple gallery spaces, classrooms from near and far, inspiring the creation Nyad, who came ashore at Key West’s receives hundreds of applicants a year, for art classes, artist’s studios, a book of new work and conversations about Smathers Beach after successfully com- with those accepted covering a wide store, and — if their fundraising efforts art’s power in a community. pleting her record-breaking swim from range of mediums — past residents have go as planned—will eventually offer What began as a small, donor-sup- Cuba to Florida. included writer Coleman Barks, NYC the only free rooftop terrace in Key ported set of artist studios quickly For a community whose official street artist MOMO, parade-coordinator West, where the organization plans to evolved into something much larger. motto, “One Human Family,” is often Katrina Brees, and hundreds more. host concerts, free art exhibitions, and Thanks to generous donations by like- mentioned alongside its unofficial one, The list of performances, lectures, more. Having more space to stretch minded patrons, a series of charming “Key West: Where the Weird Go Pro,” symposiums, concerts, curated exhi- out has resulted in a dramatic increase bungalows on quiet, residential streets it’s a matter of principle for Director Jed bitions and community outreach pro- in programming. In 2017, The Studios were transformed into a hugely cov- Dodds that his organization live both grams completed by The Studios since expanded its already extensive offering eted artist-in-residency program. Today, mottos as a kind of mission statement, its official designation as a 501(c)(3) of concerts, residencies and exhibitions creative minds from a mind-bogglingly never making anyone feel unwelcome or non-profit in 2004 is too long to list to include groundbreaking events like long list of creative arenas flock to The inexperienced. in any publication, and the company opera, a naughty adults-only after-hours Studios’ residences for one-month stays, “At The Studios, we try to blur the shows no signs of slowing down. After story hour, collaborative outdoor per- where they can tap into the restor- lines between who’s an artist, and who’s years spent in a building too small formance art, and a diverse series of ative spirit of the island and focus on the audience. Who cares? We’d rather to contain the veritable explosion of board member-sponsored private “Arts their work. With monthly potluck din- see someone picking up a paint brush
This is how we roll in KEY WEST!
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Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040 305-293-3555www.keywestjeep.com WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A15 themselves, or writing their first short story,” says Dodds. “And whether it’s from on stage, or in their studios, we try to create opportunities for people to meet and talk to the artists themselves, to see how they do it.” It is Dodds’ firm belief that one shouldn’t need a prior knowledge of art in order for it to have a transformative effect on their life; as a result, the pro- gramming at The Studios is constantly scrutinized to ensure that it is simulta- neously challenging and approachable, with the goal of persistently identifying new audiences and tailoring a season’s worth of events to be as inclusive as possible. “Our goal is not just to hang art on the walls to be looked at,” says Dodds. “We use art to start conversations, spark new ideas, and build a sense of community. People are hungry for that, especially here in Key West, so it’s become a fan- tastic scene. You never know what you’ll see or hear, or who you’ll meet, but it’s likely to make for an experience you won’t forget.” It wasn’t long after The Studios moved into its new home at 533 Eaton that resi- dent members began to notice something that, decades ago, would have sounded less plausible than Duval Street banning beer: tourists were returning to Key West specifically for cultural reasons, and not just to take in a week of sun, sand and sin- ful fun. They were arriving from all man- ner of places and choosing to spend their vacations taking plein air painting classes in Old Town and their nights attend- ing concerts, avant-garde theater perfor- mances and gallery openings. It seemed that Key West’s audience was evolving, and The Studios was well positioned to receive that audience into its new home; whatever the temperament or skill level, interested parties could flip through the 80-page catalogue of going-ons and find something to do that didn’t involve a pub crawl. This Thursday, May 3 from 6–8 p.m., as part of The Studios’ ongoing First Thursdays series, The Studios will pres- KEY WEST’S BEST ECO-EXPERIENCE ent the opening of three new exhibi- tions: “Sights Unseen: New Paintings,” featuring the paintings of beloved Key West muralist Rick Worth; “Beach Day,” &=LK a series of playa-themed paintings by Go artist Lucy Paige; and “Sitting in the Explore Shade,” featuring poems and illustra- tions by Key West native Kate Divoll. The perennial winner of “Best Artist” awards, Rick Worth is among the defin- ing Key West artists of his generation, and likely the most productive. From his “shingle paintings,” which frame snip- pets of Old Town architecture on frag- ments of metal roofs, to the dozens of murals bearing his signature all across the island, Worth is a fountain of cre- ativity. For this not-to-be-missed event, Worth fills the gallery with recent work and installation-sized paintings. Sunbathers of all shapes and sizes bask in the sun or play in the ocean in Lucy Paige’s “Beach Day” series, marking a departure from her previous abstract paintings. Bright, lively and charming, the work is quintessentially Key West Eco Tours Inc. is locally tropical but never kitschy. ownedown and operated business in Key West. With poems and illustrations derived from her inner child, “Sitting in the OurOur owownersn are passionate about Key West and its Shade” is Divoll’s ode to her adoles- ununiqueique sub-tsub-tropicalr eco-system. At Key West Eco Tours cence in Key West spent hiding from Inc, we prpromoteomote coconservation efforts and conduct our tours in the sun but basing in the island’s magic. accordance with the hihighestgh environmental standards. Come join us Each of the gallery’s three floors are aandnd exexperienceperience the natural wonders of Key West and the Florida Keys. utilized nearly year-round for exhibits, making the Studios Key West’s best example of a contemporary arts muse- KAYAK & um. Stop in on your next visit to Key PADDLEBOARD West. You just may find a thought-pro- JAVA CAT voking piece to take home. 4"*-t,":", The Studios of Key West is located at SNORKEL 533 Eaton St. The galleries are free and JAVA CAT open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. SUNSET SAIL Tuesday through Saturday. Membership offers discounts for tickets, classes, per- Call Us Now at 305-294-7245 or Book Now at formances and events. For more infor- www.keywestecotours.com mation, call 305-296-0458 or visit www. ',!, . -., . c ! #! , , c % 3 1 -. & tskw.org. ■ A16 WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 www.FloridaWeekly.com FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST MUSIC SCENE The gypsy artist Kristen McNamara
BY BUCKY MONTGOMERY I got to go to the Grand Ole Opry. They Florida Weekly Correspondent said ‘we would like you to stand where the greats have stood’ on the stage, and I Kristen was born in Templeton, Calif., said, ‘hell, no. You can’t stand there. Elvis, where she lived for two years until her Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash have all mother got a job in Napa, California at stood there. I’ll wait until it’s my time.’ I Howell Mountain. “I was there for seven thought, ‘I’ll go for the next Nashville Star’. years. There was 21 acres. It was not great Chris Young and I became best friends, the then but now there are grapes planted and only two underage contestants. I told him you can ride horses. I used to sell chicken that his song ‘Drinkin’ Me Lonely’ could eggs on the corner to help pay for my be a hit.” It was one of two songs off his sister Shannon’s diapers. It made me busi- self-titled album that hit the Billboard Hot ness-minded. My family is all still there.” Country Songs, reaching number 42. But living on a small ranch, fishing, She has since toured and opened for hunting and selling chicken eggs on the Kenny Chesney, Big and Rich, Adam Lam- corner was not enough. At age 9 she start- bert, Alan Jackson, Wynona Judd, Mont- ed performing and writing, then moved gomery Gentry, and Glen Campbell. You out at age 16 to pursue her music career. would think that, with these credentials, Starting with funerals and small venues this would make her a country singer, but such as the Blue Bird Café in Nashville, she’s not so easily categorized. “I’m like a to a packed 72,000-seat arena which was Christmas tree with too many ornaments, the home of the San Francisco 49ers and and my branches are starting to sag,” she San Francisco Giants, then ending up as a said, referring to her mountains of acco- top 3 finalist on CBS’s “Star Search” with lades and stories. Arsenio Hall in 2003. She also competed on She headed to Louisville, Ky., for the try- “Nashville Star, season four and “American COURTESY PHOTOS out for “American Idol.” Out of thousands, Idol,” season five. There are plenty of You- Kristen holds the Smokin Tuna sign. She’ll be playing at the bar this month. she made it to the cut before it came down Tube videos you can Google to watch her to between 14 and 17 contestants. “That’s performances, which will blow you away. into another, each recounting things that heartedly. when I decided reality TV is not right for She is a free-spirited gypsy artist, fearless may have been previously missed. There’s At 16, Kristen moved to Branson, Mo., me. I want to write. Be real. Be truthful.” but fragile, worldly but innocently naive, so much to tell, for this pixie so diminutive, where she began playing the Ray Stevens Five years ago, the BMI Key West Song- strong yet vulnerable, incredibly soulful, and a titan so grand. It’s almost exciting Theater two time a day, seven days a week. writers Festival brought Kristen to the and very photogenic. A girl with ambition, just to listen to her try. You feel as if you’re Then, onward, naturally, to Nashville, the island, and she immediately found it inspi- a songwriter’s heart and a sultry captivat- not getting a tenth of all there is behind the epicenter of country and pop music in the rational. She fell in love with a fighter pilot, ing voice that when you hear it, you’ll words. Whether she won those contests United States for young, aspiring singer/ and he convinced her to stay. “I was here never forget it. When asked a question, or not is irrelevant; it put her out there for songwriters. “I got a job with DreamWorks with friends from Nashville. He grabbed she responds non-linearly, in an artist’s America to see. And for five years now, she after a major label deal fell through, wear- me up, we fell in love, and I stayed.” Her stream of consciousness, with stories and has called Key West home. “Key West was ing a business suit and stockings, HR for song ‘Duval Street’ is an homage to him. conversations, one line of thought leading the answer to those ‘failures,’” she said light Gaylord, Opryland. On orientation day, She now splits her time between Key West
ELEGANCE
American fare served with THANK YOU island charm indoors or out! Try fondue at the garden bar! As Michaels celebrates 21 years in Key West, we want to thank all Our “lite side” menu is available every day! of our guestsover forthe all years!! their support
305.295.1300 | 532 Margaret Street, Key West, FL 33040 | Open Daily 5:30pm MENU AND RESERVATIONS MICHAELSKEYWEST.COM FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A17 Stay Healthy!Stay Fit! MUSIC SCENE
Dogs). Liz gave me my first job playing at Island Dogs (it was standing room only). Then Fred Bushey hired me at Rick’s. And I played out at Mallory Square, tipped by homeless people.” From then, you could find her everywhere, the Green Room, Rick’s, Island Dogs and the Smokin’ Tuna. When she’s not playing around town, Kristen hosts a Paint and Sip class, because music isn’t her only talent. Visit Key West Pain and Sip on Facebook to see when she’ll be hosting her next class. Other- wise, she might be traveling, out on a boat or frolicking on the beach with her dog Kristen’s dog Truffles goes almost Truffles. Her life always seems to be an everywhere she does, including her gigs. assortment of adventure. She is also a busy and Los Angeles. artist and photographer, holding paint and The first time I ever heard her sing, I sip classes, and popular body painting for was walking down Greene Street, and I special events. You can check out her work heard a voice coming out of the Green at www.KMACArmy.com. Room and it floored me. I had never heard “I was at the Casa Marina painting on her before. I sat down with some friends the beach when I got zapped by lightning,” across the street on the Sloppy Joe’s Tap for example. “It landed me three or four MOTHER’S DAY Room porch to listen. I asked everyone feet away. My producers who were with me who it was, and they said KMAC/Roenin said I should just get up under the awning (she was just going through that name and write songs. After I assured the hotel I $50
SPECIAL FOR 5-PACK change transition). wasn’t going to sue anyone, I wrote ‘Duval Always rebranding herself, she first Street.’” went from Kristen McNamara to KMAC. The best thing about living here? “The CREATING A SOCIAL AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT IN KEY WEST FOR OVER 10 YEARS! “My name Kristen came from my dad. He’d love,” she answers. “Where else in the U.S. go to the nude beach, I think it was called can you go, put on a mask and snorkel any- PERSONAL TRAINING Pirate’s Cove, and get girl’s names and time of the year without getting hypother- MASSAGE numbers. He ripped off the numbers and mia? McNamara means ‘man of the sea.’ NUTRITION COUNSELING put the names on the fridge. Kristen was Key West just speaks to certain people.” one of them, and it became mine.” You may catch Kristin playing at Smokin’ BARRE CLASSES She didn’t amass any wealth while audi- Tuna on May 6, 13 and 20-25, all from 5 until SPIN CLASSES tioning for the contests, so when she first 8:30 p.m. moved to Key West, she did a bit of couch In the meantime, she is painting, travel- :0("t539t1*-"5&4 surfing. “There were the greatest peo- ing, frolicking and exploring. ■ ple here. I stayed on Errin’s (Harrelson – STAYFITSTUDIOKEYWEST.COM from Bottle Cap) couch, Heath’s (Hankin’s 305-294-0693 from Rick’s), Liz’s (Podlucky – from Island 8IJUF4USFFUt,FZ8FTU '- Where the unique Experience the best of the waterfront shops and Key West breath-taking sunsets mellow lifestyle. come together. 8VơGbhef CTWƖ_X5bTeWGbhef 6hfgb`6[TegXƤf Fabe^X_\aZ 9\f[ƛaZ?bƔfgXe\aZ EXƗYJeXƕ^Ge\cf Ce\iTgX Join us for a shopping and dining experience like no other at the Sunset Waterfront Mellow Ventures Backcountry Outfitters featuring Mellow Cafe and Gastropub is Shoppes, located at the located on the water at Garrison Bight waters edge behind the inn the heart of Key West!West! Come and Margaritaville Key West recharge BOOK NOW! Resort and Marina. with us, the natural way. 305-745-3874 $#ɀ 6E49ƌ 58ŽEF ONE HOUR FREE PARKING VOUCHER WITH PURCHASE 245 Front Street (Corner of Front & Green Streets) Behind the Margaritaville Key West Resort & Marina www.mellowventureskeywest.comwww.mellowventureskeywest.com www.sunsetshoppeskeywest.com 15RRVHYHOW%OYG.H\:HVW)/Ȏ(PDLO PHOORZYHQWXUHVNH\ZHVW#JPDLOFRP SET SAIL for GET AWAY $ ROUND VACATION SPOT OF FROM ONLY125 TRIP!* PIRATES, POETS, PRESIDENTS & PARTYGOERS! 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 August 31, 2018. Online purchases. GET READY FOR YOUR NAUTICAL ADVENTURE! FASTER THAN DRIVING, CHEAPER THAN FLYING, THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL FLORIDA WEEKLY KEY WEST www.FloridaWeekly.com WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A19 CAUGHT IN KEY WEST THIS WEEK ■ Wild Bill Charters: Great guys today, ■ Eric Ryan Fishing: Congrats to the newly ■ Captain Moe’s Lucky Fleet: Captain meat for 17 Army Rangers. Thanks for all you engaged! Aaron is on the fish. do for us. — Capt. Eric Ryan — Capt. Moe — Capt. Artie Duplessis Hurricane Hole Marina, 5130 U.S. Hwy 1, 201 Margaret St Slip C1, Key West, 1801 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West Key West Florida 33040 305-744-7957 248-921-5558 305-304-8065 http://wildbillkeywest.com Flatsfishingthekeys.com www.captainmoesluckyfleet.com ■ Key West Florida Fishing: Sailfish ■ Capt. Kyle Fortney:Fortney Grouper season is ■ Fishbusterz Retail Seafood Market: putting on a show. here and so is our new boat. Fresh local mahi $14.99 pound. — Capt. Mike Weinhoffer — Capt. Kyle Fortney — 6406 Maloney Ave., Key West 305-395-3474 305-928-0269 305-294-6456 http://www.keywestfloridafishing.com FishcaptEddie.com http://www.keywestseafooddepot.com Located at Hogfish Bar and Grill 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 MAY 3-9, 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 SALT Gallery 830 Fleming St. Tony Campo Ongoing www.saltislandprovisions.com 305-517-6088 The Gallery on Greene 606 Greene St. Mike Rooney Ongoing www.galleryongreene.com 305-2941669 The Studios of Key West 533 Eaton St. First Thursday Reception Rick Worth, Lucy Paige and Katie Divall May 3, 6 to 8 p.m. The Historic Armory Studios 600 White St. Paintings by Michael J. Phillips Ongoing [email protected] 704-819-2487 Ongoing COURTESY PHOTOS www.Sherrysweettewell.com Mixed media work Works by Rick Worth, above left, Lucy Paige, top right, and Katie Divall, bottom right, are fea- or [email protected] tured at this month’s First Thursday open house event at The Gallery On Greene. by Sherry Sweet Tewell 859-533-1874 ■ MUSEUM QUALITY REGIONAL ART PRIVATE CUBAN ART TOURS ALTERNATIVE HAVANA BIENNIAL MAY 11-14 WITH THE STUDIOS KEY WEST Mario Sanchez Suzie dePoo Peter Vey Cindy Wynn St. Paul’s Spa View, 30” x 40” Oil on canvas Jeff MacNelly Mabel Poblet WPA Artist Henry LaCagnina 606 GREENE STREET - KEY WEST, FLORIDA, USA 305.294.1669 | FAX 305.294.7747 [email protected] www.galleryongreene.com FLORIDA WEEKLY WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 A21 Crocodile trapper to speak at Florida Keys Audubon Society SPECIAL TO FLORIDA WEEKLY The Florida Keys Audubon Society will continue its speaker series on Wednesday, May 9, at 6:30 p.m. at the Key West Garden Club, 1100 Atlantic Blvd. The speaker will be Chris Guinto of the Florida Fish & Wildlife Crocodile Response Team, a response agent and nui- sance alligator trapper. His talk will be “The Awesome American Crocodile.” There will be a bird walk begin- ning at 6 p.m. at the Garden Club. Guinto has been studying, protecting and occasionally relo- cating crocodiles and alligators in the Florida Keys for over a decade. “Crocodiles are the true rock stars of the animal kingdom. If you want to see a living dino- saur, just look at a crocodile. They’re as cool as they come,” said Guinto. COURTESY PHOTO “For the majority of people on Chris Guinto, who will speak at the Florida Keys the planet, 100 percent of every- Audubon Society on May 9, weighing a relocated thing they know about crocodiles crocodile in the Florida Keys. comes from television. People rarely know the backstory of crocodiles us. or have even seen a wild crocodile,” he This talk was rescheduled from last said. December. Guinto hopes his talk will educate Admissions is free and open to any- locals on why people are seeing more one who is interested. crocodiles and alligators, how to live For more information email key- side by side with them, and why these [email protected] or leave a voice- animals deserve a bit more respect from mail at 305-771-5807. ■ Kino Sandals offer over 17 different styles using natural leather uppers and natural rubber soles. They are all hand cut, assembled, and glued in our traditional sandal factory since 1966. 107 Fitzpatrick St, Key West, FL 33040 305-294-5044 Open today · 8:30AM–5:30PM KEY WEST FLORIDA WEEKLY REAL ESTATE A22 | WWW.FLORIDAWEEKLY.COM WEEK OF MAY 3-9, 2018 Historic island living 1011 South Street — $1,895,000 Built in 1938, this historic house in the and new bathroom are upstairs and the exclusive Casa Marina neighborhood is bedroom has beautiful sliding Malaysian everything you want for island living. shell pocket doors leading to a balcony Open the front door to find a wonderful overlooking the living room. Two pri- sitting room, two large guest bedrooms, vate second story porches are located a new bathroom, and refinished hard- just off of the balcony and are perfect for wood floors. The main living room is sunning and sitting. An electric gate to stunning with cathedral ceilings, dining off street parking is included. ■ area, and French doors opening to the heated swimming pool and lush gar- Contact Truman & Co dens. The oversized master bedroom Office: 305-292-2244 PHOTOS COURTESY A er a happy career as a school teacher in Massachuse s, I moved to Key West 25 years ago. I have been a Key West Realtor for ten years and am proud Selling Key West to be the islands leading realtor for condominiums overlooking Smathers Beach. Call me for a consultation Right From the Beach today and allow me to find you your piece of paradise Patricia McGrMcGrath on the beach. SOLD! SOLD! NEW LISTING NEW LISTING KEY WEST BY THE SEA KEY WEST BY THE SEA KEY WEST BY THE SEA KEY WEST BY THE SEA 3 BR/2 BA CONDO! #221C 2BR/2BA CONDO #113C 2BR/1BA CONDO! #105A 2BR, 1BA CONDO! #209A Bright airy condo with central air, in-condo First floor with huge, private, lanai that flows Gorgeous first floor condo with expansive Nicely appointed condo with views of the laundry and lovely cou yard and pool views. through the beautifully updated living area for lanai. High-end EVERYTHING in this Ernest ocean and the pool. Directly across the street Beautiful upscale bathrooms. the ultimate in ente aining! Hemingway inspired home! from Smather’s Beach! PRICED AT: $549,000 PRICED AT: $599,000 PRICED AT: $625,000 PRICED AT: $489,000 Paradise is Waiting for You! >?89;@==9:DqD333 98/ $3 Ç6 +)>?8> 9;@==9: q 333 98/ $3 Ç6 +) Patricia McGrath '!53!/0, É5) # +( +) !*01.5D98D $3 Ç6D++0$DqD .+//D".+)D) 0$!./D! $ 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 4 COCONUT DRIVE | $1,695,000 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LONG TERM RENTALS 821 WADDELL AVENUE | $2,100,000 JUST LISTED! Impeccable 2 bedroom, 2 bath renovation of this charming 818 Carsten 1918 shotgun-style Conch cottage on Carsten Lane. Lane Designed with custom details and contemporary, industrial design, this home complements its historic elements with $ 1,375,000 modern finishes and luxury amenities. The great room with cathedral ceilings includes a sleek kitchen, dining space and sophisticated sitting area that overlooks the covered porch, heated pool and Ipe deck surround by dancing palms. 1400 1ST STREET | $2,250,000 UNDER CONTRACT! 615 Southard Historic Conch cottage fully renovated & expanded into (305) 587-3407 a 3 bed, 3 bath home with stylish designer décor & Street luxury finishes. First floor master, loft, & a great room [email protected] with wall of glass doors that open to a view of pool & $ 1,699,000 lush tropical landscaping. Chef’s kitchen with high-end, www.keywesthometeam.com stainless appliances, quartz countertops, custom cabinetry 1205 Truman Ave. | Key West | FL 33040 & floating shelves. LIVE ECO Melody Key offered at $3,500,0000 Islamorada Offi ce: Marathon Offi ce: Key West Offi ce: 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 Offi ce is Independently Owned and Operated.