Florida Keys 3-9 Upper Keys 10-12 Cover Story 13 What's Happening 14 Real Estate 26
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JANUARY
23 - 29, 2020
Christopher Peterson Receives
the 2020 “GOLDEN MANGO AWARD”
from The Studios of Key West!
Florida Keys 3-9 • Upper Keys 10-12 • Cover Story 13 • What's Happening 14 • Real Estate 26
Photo: Larry Blackburn • Cover: JT Thompson
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
The Assassination Rip-Off Team
By Roger C. Kostmayer “preemptive action” to have a
clear, comparable and imminent
killing this senior government
official have prevented it? No. Spokesperson
A merica and the world com-
munity both have a stake
in understanding precisely the
threat - which is what the Presi-
dent claimed when he said four
US embassies were in imminent
And are America, our diplomats
and troops, and US civilians all
safer today? Clearly not. apologizes
how, why and when of the kill- danger from Gen. Soleiman. Was the President follow-
ing of Iranian General Soleiman Senior embassy security officials ing a rigorously debated and By Bruce Mitchell
by President Trump’s order. The now say they were unaware of thoughtful strategy that would
three questions that must be an-
swered are: Was it legal under
any such threat and, secondly,
the President authorized the
enhance US security? Mean-
ing, was this unprecedented I would like to sincerely and publicly apologize to any-
one who attended the Mayor’s Ball Saturday night at
Michael Halpren’s Southernmost House and was offend-
US and international law?; Was killing 7 MONTHS before the peacetime decision based on an
this decision the right thing to act took place. The explanation international coalition with our ed by the informational picketing by members of the Key
do to for America’s national se- is clearly a lie, and there was no allies, and was it discussed with West Rip-Off Rapid Response Team.
curity? If the answers to the first specific imminent threat that the people’s representatives? No. We were not protesting the mayor, the Mayors Ball
two questions are “Yes”, was would have been avoided by So, based on lies, it seems or the great charities it supports. Rather, we politely
this strategy executed effectively killing this Iranian adversary. this action was illegal, harmful brought public discussion of the rip-off shops and who
in America’s best interests? Even if there had been a clear to US security and was terrify- X Continued on page 4
The legality question requires and imminent threat, would ingly inept. n
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www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
KEY NEWS
Panhandling zone for homeless fall on hard times
at city workshop
BY TERRY SCHMIDA brutal assault last week that left one “ . . . I think the best course of His colleague Clayton Lopez echoed
KONK LIFE STAFF WRITER indigent man in a mainland hospital action is tell the commission and the these concerns, and related reports of
and another zone regular facing sec- public what the city management in- boxes of supplies such as toilet paper
E victed!
That’s the fate of
Key West’s designated
ond-degree murder charges. “I think
it’s time that we have a conversation as
a commission . . . we certainly recog-
tends to do with that location, leav-
ing aside some of the background and
other issues involved . . .with all due
in the public restrooms being pilfered.
“This kind of thing happens on
a regular basis,” Lopez said. “It is a
panhandling zone at nize that it is not a positive situation in respect,” Smith said. conversation we need to have.” He de-
Mallory Square, follow- Mallory Square.” Major Johnston was in accord: “I ferred on this issue to City Manager
ing a recent decision from City Hall. Commissioner Sam Kaufman, think we can all agree . . . that the Greg Veliz:
The suddenly urgent issue of what an advocate for the homeless in pri- Sunset Celebration group . . . has “Unless I get a direction to go an-
do about increasingly violent panhan- vate life, asked City Attorney Shawn had a number of issues . . . with ag- other way,” said Veliz . . . I’d like to
dlers and their aggressive tactics at the Smith if he might brief the chamber gressive panhandling, and with as- propose that we start to dismantle . .
zone was discussed at the Jan. 15 City on the reasons behind the creation saults,” she said. “ . . we welcome . put the parking spaces back . .. de-
Commission workshop, where there of the zone (and another on Caroline 900,000 people to the City of Key terrents on the wall . . . put the fences
was near-unanimous agreement be- Street that will remain unaffected) in West, through this portal.” back up at the dumpster, and perhaps
tween commissioners and the public 2012, but the barrister, and the other Commissioner Weekley agreed with get a keypad system . . . basically just
to close the zone down. commissioners agreed that the time Smith, adding an anecdote he had return it back to its original state of
“There has been another incident to discuss how and why the zones heard about people living in a tent at
that’s been well-publicized,” May- came to be was less important than the zone, as well as some other com- X Continued on page 4
or Teri Johnston said, referring to a dismantling them. plaints he’d heard from residents.
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3
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
j a n u a r y 23 - 29, 2 0 2 0 FLORIDA KEYS
Published Weekly
Vol. 10 No. 4
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
Guy deBoer
NEWS WRITERS
Pru Sowers
Terry Schmida
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ralph DePalma, Bill Klipp, Guy deBoer
DESIGN
Nand K. Pandey, konklifedesign@gmail.com
PIXEL WRANGLER
JT Thompson
CONTRIBUTORS
Jeff Johnson &
Paula Forman
Short Answers Rip-Off Team... the city code. We also have staged sidewalk protests
Ian Brockway X Continued from page 2 in front of the rip-off shops to warn consumers and
Tropic Sprockets stop the deplorable practices of these businesses.
Tammy Fox-Royer rents to them to a very influential group of Key
Florida Keys SPCA For the last five plus years, Mr. Halpern has
Sylvia Bogart
West citizens. rented to a business many believe has no place in
Astrologically Yours Our purpose was to inform the community Key West. We are disappointed Mr Halpern didn’t
Joanna Brady minded of Key West that Michael Halpern contin- follow through on closing the store at the end of
Reviewer ues to rent to a rip-off cosmetic shop, Oh La La, 2019 and don’t understand why he hasn’t returned
120 Duval Street, despite his public and private as- our calls so he can explain his decision.
SUMMER INTERN
Emily Bracher surances that they would be gone by the end of last Thank you to many of the attendees who voiced
year. This is one of three remaining cosmetic shops their support for the fight against the rip-off shops,
ADVERTISING that harass pedestrians, rip off tourists, violate city and again my apologies to any attendee who was
Ashley Williamson – 410.999.4917 code, and give all of Key West a bad name. offended by our actions. I am truly sorry.
305.296.1630 For the last five years, our group of volunteer con- To demonstrate the sincerity of this public apol-
Advertising Deadline Every Friday
sumer advocates has tried to stop the cosmetic shop ogy, I am donating $1,000 to each of the charities
PRINT-READY advertising materials due by rip-offs, recover money for victims, warn cruise ship the Mayor’s Ball supports and thank all of those
Friday every week for next issue of KONK Life. passengers, and lobby for stricter enforcement of who attended. n
Ad Dimensions
Horizontal and Vertical:
Full, 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, 1/8 page, bizcard Panhandling zone... The recommendation to remove the zone was
Ad Submissions X Continued from page 3 even supported by an employee of the Southern-
JPG, TIFF, PDF — digital formats only most Homeless Assistance League (SHAL.)
Send to production@konklife.com
being a parking lot, of being a dumpster area, and “I completely agree with this conversation, and
CIRCULATION try to dissuade people from going there as opposed with the city manager, that this is probably not
Kavon Desilus ASSISTANT to inviting them to go there. I don’t think that it’s accomplishing what it was set out to accomplish,”
Ben Neff ASSISTANT stopping people from going out into the streets she said. “It’s a hard situation for everyone.”
and panhandling in the streets.” Just one speaker opposed closing the zones.
KONK Life is published weekly by KONK Finding support on dais for this approach, May- Other topics discussed at the workshop included
Communications Network in Key West, Fla. or Johnston called on community members to give restrictions on leaf blowers, future affordable hous-
Editorial materials may not be reproduced their input. ings planning including an update on the new KOTS
without written permission from the network.
The commission got an earful, including horror homeless shelter, and sea level rise adaptation.
KONK Communications Network stories of drug sales and prostitution taking place The commission will meet again on Jan. 22. n
(305) 296-1630 • Key West, Florida from the speakers, many of whom are Sunset Cele-
www.konklife.com bration performers and merchants. keysscribe@aol.com
4
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
FLORIDA KEYS
Teacher of the Year
BY EMMA SCEPKOVA touched my heart that I was nominated summarized. Bringing a variety of per-
KONK LIFE STUDENT WRITER by my peers and actually won.¨ spectives and styles is imperative, in Te-
A common theme among each of desco’s opinion, to allow the student to
P erseverance, respect, integrity, and
dedication are qualities that stu-
dents of the Monroe County School
these teachers is how imperative a con-
nection with the students is to be a
genuinely great teacher.
learn the material presented.
Rech takes a different approach. She
remarked on one of her specific teach-
District (MSCD) aim to attain, and In the words of Barber, “The tech- ing techniques, “Students work and as-
these very attributes are also what de- niques I use truly revolve around my sist one another in collaborative groups
fine an exemplary teacher. relationship with students, the reality I twice a week tackling concepts they do
In late November, Donna Tedesco set for the classroom, and the processes not understand in their core classes. Stu-
was named the 2019 Teacher of the I follow in each of my classes.” dents actually prefer learning from each
Year at Key West High School. Along These educators have been honored other, which is rather impressive to see!”
with Tedesco, Richard Barber was rec- Impacting student’s lives one lesson for their exceptional teaching skills and Barber noted how discussion is a suc-
ognized as Beginning Teacher of the at a time, Donna Tedesco (R), Richard
ability to connect with the students, cessful method of educating the pupils of
Barber (center), and Pat Rech (L) stand
Year and Pat Rech was elected as In- smiling as they receive praise and ac- but they all have differing techniques Key West High School. “I love discussion;
clusion Teacher of the Year. colades for all of their diligent work put and perspectives on how to effectively any way to involve discussion during a
The teachers who received an accolade forth toward enlightening the young teach. “I present each topic from differ- lesson will liven up the classroom.”
minds of the future. Photo provided
felt “shocked, awestruck, and speechless,” ent points of view and try to access each
as Rech remarked of the experience, “We have such a talented staff, so this truly person’s learning style,” Tedesco briefly X Continued on page 6
IT’S TIME FOR THE ANNUAL
CHILI COOK-OFF
SATURDAY, JAN. 25
ENTER YOUR CHILI AT
ANY OF THESE LOCATIONS
TASTINGS ARE FROM 4PM TO 7PM
GRAND FINALE 7:30 AT BOBBY’S MONKEY BAR
SPONSORED BY AWARD FOR BEST TASTING CHILI
DETERMINED BY THE JUDGES
THE BUSINESS THAT WINS WILL HOST NEXT YEARS CONTEST!
PEOPLES CHOICE AWARD
DETERMINED BY THE MOST VOTES
5
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
FLORIDA KEYS
Cannabis Clarity
Cannabis in the Kitchen lots of options for you too. CBD
I started my career as a registered di-
etitian leading to a life long love
affair with food. Then came a breast
tinctures are a go-to ingredient,
working well in beverages, desserts,
savory dips and breakfast. I shy away
cancer diagnosis and the hunt to find from baked goods or any recipe re-
meaningful healing modalities to layer quiring prolonged, high heat; this
onto conventional treatments. Those will breakdown the cannabinoids
modalities included cannabis which and dilute their effectiveness. One of
turned my career in a different direc- my favorite new ingredients to work
tion, as a founder of an online canna- into recipes is CBD Bitters. Bitters
bis education platform training health are a great digestive on their own and
practitioners across the US. Now the when combined with CBD and oth-
stars have aligned to combine the best er botanicals, they are powerhouse
of both my worlds…teaching others ingredient. I just developed a new
how to use cannabis in the kitchen. recipe using figs, dark chocolate,
candied ginger and a spice-flavored
Many Delivery Formats CBD bitter. These truffle-like little
For many people, smoking or vaping nuggets can be made ahead, kept in
is an irritant or just not an experience the fridge and enjoyed at a moment’s
they enjoy. Tinctures (dropped under notice. Making your own edibles lets
the tongue as a sublingual) are effec- patience and most of us can’t wait, eat “lipophilic”, or it binds well to fat mol- you control the dose, create real food
tive and quickly absorbed, but the taste another edible and perhaps have an ecules. A great resource on this topic, (not just a sugary gummy) and it’s
may be off-putting. Then there’s edi- out-of-body experience. And because with super healthy recipes, is The Can- really fun to play in the kitchen with
bles; those made with THC-contain- there is no standardization with can- nabis Kitchen Cookbook. Ten culinar- these ingredients.
ing cannabis (marijuana) and CBD- nabis labeling laws, what is actually ians, from across the US, collaborated If you want to taste those fig truffles
hemp derived edibles. THC, CBD or in that gummy or cookie is often not on this book and I’m delighted to have and learn how to make other CBD
any other cannabinoid is metabolized accurately listed on the label. Lots of been one of the contributors. Gone are recipes, check out my CBD Culinary
differently when consumed in a food variables to consider. the days of the stoner pot brownies; we Workshop, Monday, January 27,
or beverage. They have to pass through have moved onto heathy, luscious fla- Noon-2pm at the Oldest House
the liver which slows downs absorp- Cooking with Cannabis vors and beautiful presentation. Museum Garden. For tickets, go to
tion and accounts for the delayed re- Infusing oils and butters with cannabis www.keywestfoodandwinefest.com.
sults compared to the quick update a tried and true way to create the foun- CBD Recipes For cookbooks or other questions,
into the bloodstream with other de- dation for an endless number of reci- If you want the therapeutic effect of contact me directly at shieldsdonna12@
livery methods. Using edibles requires pes. We infuse fats because cannabis is CBD without the THC high, there’s gmail.com. n
6
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
FLORIDA KEYS
Trio Gaspard to give Impromptu Classical
Concerts performance at St. Paul’s Episcopal
Church on Jan. 26
T he international Chamber music
sensation, Trio Gaspard, will per-
form an Impromptu Classical Concerts
Clare College, Cambridge.)
Rimmer also toured international-
ly as organist for the renowned Clare
No. 1 C-Minor, op. 8,“ by Dmitri
Shostakovich; and Piano Trio G-Mi-
nor, op. 15,“ by Bedřich Smetana.
presentation at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26. College Choir. Maestros for the concert will be
The concerts are held at St. Paul’s Epis- According to L’Arena de Verona Christine Bassett and Carey Alexander.
copal Church, 401 Duval St. newspaper, “Trio Gaspard has excellent Tickets for the concert cost $20,
Because of its unique and fresh ap- credentials and immediately found its and are available at www.keystix.com,
proach to music, this renowned trio way into the heart of the audience.” or at the door on the afternoon of the
has become increasingly sought after. West for one concert only. At the Jan. 26 concert the trio will per- event. Cash, checks, or credit/debit
It was founded in 2010. Violinist Jonian Ilias Kadesha was form the “Piano Trio G-major, op. 1, No. cards accepted. Students will be ad-
Trio Gaspard is the winner of ma- born in Athens of Albanian and Greek 2,“ by Ludwig van Beethoven; and “Two mitted free. Seating is on a first-come,
jor international music competitions, heritage. He is currently complet- Pieces for Piano Trio,“ by Lili Boulanger. first-served basis.
including first prizes and special priz- ing his Masters at Kronberg Acade- Following a short intermission the For more information visit www.
es at the International Joseph Joachim my in Germany, and has played with trio will return to perform, Piano Trio keywestimpromptu.org n
Chamber Music Competition in Wei- the Chamber Orchestra of Europe at
mar; the Fifth International Haydn the Kronberg Festival, and with the
Chamber Competition in Illzach, Athens State Symphony Orchestra at
France; and the 2012 “Wiener Klassic” Megaron Hall. He will soon return to
Preis de Stadt Baden in Austria. Wigmore Hall, in the United King-
As well as exploring and champion- dom, to perform a Beethoven Concer-
ing the traditional piano trio repertoire, to with the Roman River Festival Or-
Gaspard works regularly with contem- chestra as well as take part in festivals 2020 Season
porary composers, while performing at the Schubertiade, in Austria; and
seldom-played masterpieces. The en- Molyvos in Lesbos, Greece.
semble members have given master- Cellist Vashti Hunter of Berlin, Ger-
classes at Kyung-Hee University in many is the first British cellist ever to
Seoul, South Korea, and also served as be awarded a prize at the International
the resident piano trio of the Shanghai Cello Competition Prague Spring. She
Chamber Music Festival in 2016. There has also been the principal cellist of the
they taught talented young ensembles, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, and the
and sat on the jury of China’s National Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra. She won
Chamber Music Competition. her Laureate playing Dvorak’s Cello
More recently, the trio was award- Concerto with the Pilsen Philharmonic
ed a fellowship from the Royal Orchestra in Dvorak Hall, in Prague.
Northern College of Music in Man-
chester, England.
Last, but not least, is pianist Nicho-
las Rimmer of Wigan, England.
Jan 26 - Trio Gaspard, Violin, Cello, Piano
All three members are successful At an early age this talented Brit de-
Beethoven • Boulanger • Schostakowitsch •Smetana
soloists in their own right, and each veloped a diverse musicality and stud-
continues to pursue their own careers, ied not only piano and organ but also
at St. Paul’s Church• 4pm
keywestimpromptu.org
giving recitals and performing inter- composition, harmony, and conduct-
nationally in prestigious venues with ing, as a junior student at the North-
other chamber groups. The trio’s first ern College of Music, (subsequently
U.S. Tour is bringing them to Key earning a degree in Musicology at
7
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
FLORIDA KEYS
Teacher...
X Contd. from p 5 37th Annual Wesley Wesley House
House Valentine’s Family Services
With the diversity of
methods and techniques,
the truth of the matter is
revealed: Teaching is all
about the connections
made. Rech summarized
Day Gala Offer Foster Care
the importance of these
connections, “Watching T his Valentine’s Day, take
your special someone to
Wesley House’s 37th Annu-
ner designed and prepared by
Great Events Catering.
VIP Admission includes re-
Training Classes
W
my current and former
al Valentine’s Day Gala at served table seating close to the esley House Fami- To register or for more infor-
students learn and truly
the beautiful Curry Man- entertainment, premium bars ly Services is seeking mation call Megan Burgess at
believe in themselves as
sion Inn. Live music by one and early entry to the event nurturing families interested 305-809-5020 or e-mail at me-
they work toward their
of Key West’s most popular as well as There passed hors in providing a loving home gan.burgess@wesleyhouse.org.
future goals, when it
performing groups - Howard d’oeuvres and a dinner selec- to children and teens who Together, Wesley House
all comes together for
them, no matter how Livingston & the Mile Mark- tion of blackened mahi, prime are in the foster care system. Family Services and prospec-
big or small the achieve- er 24 Band. rib, three cheese tortellini, as- Classes begin February 26th tive foster families can increase
ment, and [they] share it Included with your tick- sorted vegetables, salad, des- in Key West and are held the capacity in our communi-
with me... it’s magical, et price is the island’s largest serts and more. each Wednesday night for six ties to provide nurturing car-
and it truly warms my silent auction, OPEN bar, General Admission includes weeks, and one Saturday day ing homes to care for the most
heart!” n dancing, and an elegant din- a buffet dinner and open bar. n class. Registration is required. vulnerable children. n
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8
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
FLORIDA KEYS
Phyllis Rose at the Friends of the Key West Library
Series January 27
O n Monday, January 27th, the
Friends of the Key West Library
will present Phyllis Rose, a biogra-
Bloomsbury in the late 1970s.
In 1983 she published Paral-
lel Lives: Five Victorian Marriages,
Stieglitz was one of the first Amer-
ican photographers to achieve inter-
national fame, and for many years,
pher, literary critic and essayist. Ms. which, taking as its model Lytton Stra- because of his active engagement in
Rose’s talk will take place at the Trop- chey’s Eminent Victorians, considered the camera club movement, he was
ic Cinema on Eaton Street. Admis- a large issue (the institution of mar- in effect the CEO of photography in
sion to the lectures is free. The talk riage) through portraits of individu- America. As part of his strategy for
begins promptly at 6:00 p.m. Seat- al marriages. Anatole Broyard in The establishing photography as fine art,
ing starts at 5:40 on a first come, first New York Times called it a “brilliant he produced beautiful and influential
served basis. and original book.” It has stayed in photography magazines, including the
Rose’s first book was the biography print for over 25 years. Nora Ephron legendary Camera Work.
Virginia Woolf, Woman of Letters, told Time Magazine in 2009 that she Rose lives in New York City and
published in 1978. A finalist for the read it every four or five years. Key West, where she continues to col-
National Book Award, it was in the Her most recent book, Alfred Stieg- laborate with her husband, Laurent
forefront of feminist re-evaluations of litz: Taking Pictures, Making Painters de Brunhoff, on the popular series of
literary figures and contributed to the illuminates Stieglitz as a revolutionary children’s books featuring Babar the
surge of interest in Virginia Woolf and force in the history of American art. Elephant. n
Not Horsing Around! THE ANNE MCKEE Wednesday,
ARTISTS FUND Feb 12, 2020
The Studios of
25th ANNIVERSARY Key West
FINE Doors open: 6:15 PM
Auction: 7:00 PM
ART
$25 General Admission
$50 VIP Admission
Tickets available at the door
and at www.mckeefund.org
S AUCTION
ilent auction items are sought for ing activities. The Sunday, February 16 Art preview Feb 6–12 at the
The Studios of Key West.
the upcoming 2nd Key West Police event at La te Da, 1125 Duval Street,
No admission fee.
2020
Department Mounted Unit fundrais- will kick off at 5:30pm with a meet &
ing event, taking place Sunday, Feb- greet with the Mounted Unit Officers
ruary 16 at La te Da on Duval Street, and Horses, followed by 6:00pm cock-
hosted by proprietor Christopher tails, a grand sit-down dinner, and a
Rounds and Key West designer/busi- dazzling 9:00pm private Cabaret Show
nesswoman Jane Gardner. Can you starring Christopher Peterson.
donate something fun, functional or Event tickets are $150 each for the
fabulous to help raise funds for this in- full evening (50 available), and $50 for
valuable team of officers and equines? the Cabaret alone (60 available).
Why a fundraiser, you may ask? It’s To make a donation or purchase
because the City provides stables, feed, tickets, contact Jane Gardner at 312-
hay, and the officer’s salaries, but all 914-7546 or email jane@janegardner-
WWW.MCKEEFUND.ORG
other expenses are covered by fundrais- interiors.com. n
9
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020
UPPER KEYS
Monroe County
Installs A New Boater
Information Kiosk at
Harry Harris Park
K EY LARGO, FL –
Monroe County
Project Management is
installing a new boater
information kiosk at the
Harry Harris Park boat ramp in Key Lar-
go. The project is funded using state boat-
ing improvement funds generated from
recreational vessel registrations. The kiosks
will have signage about local waters and
will include boater guides and other wa-
ter safety materials. “Informing boaters,
especially those not familiar with our local
waters is a significant concern for Monroe
County,” said Project Management Direc- A crew drills the foundation for the first
tor Cary Knight. “This project serves the boater information kiosk being installed
needs of the boating community and will at Harry Harris Park in Key Largo. Mon-
roe County File Photos
result in improved boating access, provide
a benefit to recreational boaters, and af- The first kiosk is being installed as
ford for recovery of sensitive marine hab- a pilot project at Harry Harris Park.
itats especially since we have a high level of As funding becomes available, project
boating related activities from individuals management would like to include
who reside in other counties.” them at other County boat ramps. n
Key West Writers Guild
Meeting Saturday,
January 25, 2020
T he Key West Writers Guild will meet Saturday, January 25, 2020,
from 9:00 A.M. to noon in the Conference Room at the Condo-
miniums at 2601 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West Florida. Enter through
A conceptual image of a completed boater information kiosk.
the gate just to the left of the flagpoles. Please park across the street on 10
South Roosevelt (Free Parking). n www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020UPPER KEYS
Key West Sunrise Rotary Calling All Artists
Golf Tournament set for
Feb. 23
tournament at the Key West Golf Club.
Proceeds fund college scholarships and
worthy local causes.
Prizes are awarded for first, second
and third place in each flight, as well
as closest to the pin, longest drive,
straightest drive and longest putt. Sink-
ing a hole-in-one on any par 3 wins-
$5,000. And four players will earn the
opportunity to win a million dollars in
a hole-in-one shootout from 165 yards
on the 18th green.
The $125 entry fee includes lunch,
food and beverages on the course and a
goody bag. To register, contact the Key
West Golf Club at (305) 294-5232. n
A rtists in Paradise Gallery, Big
Pine Key, will present Keys Col-
or, their 25th annual Lower Keys
donated by our own artists, and friends
and neighbors of Artists in Paradise.
All entries must be delivered to
Artists Network judged show with Artists in Paradise on Feb 15 and
Key West Sunrise Rotarians Zach Bent- an awards reception on February 21, 16 during gallery hours. Awards and
ley and Dr. George Lindner monitor for from 6 to 8 pm. prizes will be presented at the recep-
winners of the closest-to-the-pin con-
Artists who become members of the tion on Feb 21. Art will be on exhibit
test during the club’s annual fundrais-
ing golf tournament. (Courtesy Key West Lower Keys Artists Network for $25 at Artists in Paradise from February
Sunrise Rotary) can enter two pieces of work, be eligi- 21 until March 13. For information
ble for prizes and awards and sell their and a show application, go to www.
L ocal students and charities will be
the winners of the 27th Annual Key
West Sunrise Rotary Golf Classic. Reg-
Key West Sunrise Rotary’s custom golf
art with no commission fee. Awards
will include first, second and honor-
artistsinparadise.com or stop in at
Artists in Paradise on Big Pine Key.
balls for its annual fundraising tourna- able mention plus a Best in Show and For further information call Art-
istration is open for the Feb. 23, 2020, ment. (Courtesy Key West Sunrise Rotary)
People’s Choice. Prizes are generously ists in Paradise at 305-872-1828. n
11
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020FU
LOPR
P IE DR A K KE EY YS S
Midway Specialty Care Center opens 2 new
locations in the Keys in 2020
Overseas Highway, Suite #10; the Key “Key West is one of the most import- “Our expansion into the Keys is so
West site is scheduled to open February 11 ant destinations for LGBTQ people and critical to stopping the spread of HIV in
at 1434 Kennedy Drive, Unit #1 (housed has long been known as an accepting, the Keys. We look forward to following
within the A.H. of Monroe County facili- diverse community,” Grossman noted. AH’s lead in understanding and contrib-
M idway Specialty Care Center, a
501(c)(3) non-profit clinic pro-
viding HIV specialty care and preven-
ty). Both sites take insured and uninsured
patients on a reduced/sliding scale.
The Keys’ Medical Director, Dr.
“We hope to offer primary care to all,
with a special focus on LGBTQ med-
icine, including hormone affirmation
uting to the unique medical and needs
of the Keys,” added Jana Eschbach, Mid-
way’s Chief Development Officer.
tion services in 11 locations statewide, Howard A. Grossman is a renowned therapy for transgender individuals. We “For consumers, there can be a great
have announced two new sites in the physician for LGBTQ Care, HIV also look forward to working with the benefit to having our own Case Man-
Florida Keys. Care and Primary Care and has served other primary care doctors in the com- agement and other services with medical
Marathon, the inaugural Monroe as former President of the American munity and coordinating with many spe- care all under one roof,” Scott Pridgen,
County location, is open now, at 5701 Academy of HIV Physicians. cialists to address our patients’ needs.” Executive Director of AH, noted. n
12
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020COVER STORY
Christopher Peterson Named by The Studios
of Key West as Recipient of the 2020 Golden
Mango Award
Christopher Peterson was honored
at the Brunch with a Golden Mango
Award. (photo courtesy the artist)
A t The Studios of Key West’s an-
nual Patron Brunch on Sunday,
January 19, the organization recog-
“Oceans of Gratitude” Annual Patron Brunch - Under the direction of Bonnie Piceu and Paul Dietz (brunch co-chairs)
and with the help of dozens of volunteers, The Studios of Key West became an underwater wonderland for one day on
Jan 19 to honor Patrons of The Studios of Key West. (credit: Larry Blackburn)
nized Christopher Peterson as the Coronation and many others. He is ricator are unparalleled, manifesting Recipients of The Studios’ Golden
recipient of the 2020 Golden Mango tireless in his devotion to Key West and in both his stage performances and Mango Award may be artists, patrons
Award. Established in 2015 by The its motto of “One Human Family.” charitable work. He is featured in the or advocates, and may be honored as
Studios, the award is presented each Peterson’s Key West roots run award-winning documentary “We’re individuals, couples, or collaborative
year to an outstanding leader who deep. He arrived in Key West in 1998 Funny That Way,” which detailed the groups. Past recipients of the award
has benefitted Key West through sig- with his husband of 37 years, the late first gay and lesbian comedy festival include Judith and Stanley Zabar, Bill
nificant contributions to the Arts. James Mill. His extraordinary talents in Canada and was later released on and Ann Lorraine, Anne McKee, and
Though Peterson is perhaps best- were recognized immediately, and he Showtime, Cinemax and HBO. John Martini.
known for his live show “Eyecons” has become a local legend as one of Danny Weathers, former director The Studios of Key West is an art
which he’s performed at La-Te-Da since the foremost female impersonators of Waterfront Playhouse and Peter- center located at the landmark deco
2001, he is also a passionate advocate who sing “live.” He’s known for his son’s longtime friend and colleague, building at 533 Eaton Street. The Stu-
for community causes. His charitable masterful characterizations of Mari- helped to present the award, which dios presents hundreds of programs
efforts as a comedian, impersonator and lyn Monroe, Madonna, Joan Rivers, is in the shape of a mango and is a each year including classes, exhibi-
master of ceremonies have benefitted Reba McEntire, Bette Midler, Tina custom work of art fabricated by tions, concerts, performances and spe-
many organizations over the past two Turner, Julie Andrews, Barbra Strei- contemporary sculptor Helen Har- cial events, and endeavors to use the
decades including AIDS Help, Equali- sand, Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland, rison. Studios’ Executive Director arts to build friendships and establish
ty Florida, Special Olympics, Key West Cher, Bette Davis, Lucille Ball, Lady Jed Dodds and Board Chair Stephen Key West as a beacon of cultural activ-
Business Guild, The Studios of Key GaGa and others. In addition, his Kitsakos were also on hand to con- ity. Find out about Studio’ programs
West, Queen Mother Pageant, Royal skills as a costume designer and fab- gratulate Peterson. by visiting www.tskw.org. n
13
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020W H AT 'S H A P P E N I N G
Schooner Wharf Bar RAVEN COOPER BAND
202 Williams St., (305) 292-3302 6:30 - 11:30pm
SchoonerWharf.com
n MAGIC OF FRANK
EVERHART
9:00 pm - 1am
Thursday 01/23
Michael McCloud Sunday 01/26
Noon - 5:00 pm MICHAEL McCLOUD & FRIENDS
noon - 5pm
ISLAND TIME DUO
6:30pm - 11pm
MAGIC OF FRANK
EVERHART
A KEY WEST FAMILY TRADITION of FINE FOODS -- SINCE 1926 9:00 pm - 1am
CUSTOM PLATTERS
AND PARTY SUPPLIES!
COOL DUO Annual Schooner Wharf Wrecker’s
Sam Ramos & Chris Case Cup Race
DREAM IT UP... CALL US UP... PICK IT UP! 6:30 - 11pm
Monday 01/27
We make Party Platters effortless...
simply order 24 hours in advance Raven Cooper
and ENJOY YOUR EVENT Noon - 5:00 pm
along with your guests! And
we love your custom requests!
522 Fleming Street • 305.296.5663 • Faustos.com
MAGIC OF FRANK
EVERHART
9:00 pm - 1am
Schooner Wharf Knot & Shot
Competition Captain’s Meeting ZACK SEEMILLER
Schooner Wharf Wrecker’s Cup Race 6:30 - 11pm
Friday 01/24 Tuesday 01/28
MICHAEL McCLOUD & FRIENDS GARY HEMPSEY
noon - 6pm noon - 5pm
RAVEN COOPER BAND TOM TAYLOR
6:30 - 11:30pm 6:30pm - 11pm
MAGIC OF FRANK
Tuesday 01/29
EVERHART
TONY BALTIMORE
9:00 pm - 1am
noon - 5pm
Schooner Wharf Knot & Shot
RAVEN COOPER
Competition 6:30 - 11pm
Saturday 01/25 MAGIC OF FRANK
MICHAEL McCLOUD & FRIENDS EVERHART
noon - 5pm 9:00 pm - 1am
14
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020W H AT 'S H A P P E N I N G
2020 35th Annual
Whats Happening Thursdays-Fridays 7:30pm
X Continued from page 14 Professional Standup Comedy—
doors open 7:30pm.
The Smokin’ Tuna
4 Charles St., (305) 517-6350
Blue Room available for private parties
Schooner Wharf Bar
Little Room Jazz Club
smokintunasaloon.com
n
821 Duval Street,
Key West FL 33040
Wrecker’s Cup Race Series
Thursday 01/23 littleroomjazzclub.com
Scott Kirby 5pm n
Caffeine Carl & The Buzz 9:00pm
Thursday 01/23
Friday 01/24 Piano Bar Happy Hour with Coffee
Key West Songwriter Sessions Butler 5:30-7:30
Concert 7pm $ Peter Diamond and Friends 8-11
Caffeine Car and Friends 9:00pm Friday 01/24
Piano Bar Happy Hour with Larry
Saturday 01/25
Scott Kirby 5pm
Smith 5:30-7:30
Ericson Holt 8-11
T he much anticipated first race of
the Schooner Wharf Bar Wreck-
er’s Cup Race Series is scheduled for
film footage taken of the race by the
official race committee boat and dance
to the popular rhythmic steel drum
Caffeine Carl and Friends 9:00pm Sunday, January 26th at 1:00 p.m. sound of the Island Time Duo!
Saturday 01/25
The course is 7 miles from Key West Trophies, Pusser’s Rum and Schoo-
Piano Bar Happy Hour Peter Harbor to Sand Key, re-enacting the ner Wharf bar tabs and Wrecker’s
Saturday 01/26
Diamond and James King 5:30-7:30 ancient wrecking tradition of Key Race tee shirts are earned by the top 3
Dr VonHilsheimer 2pm West…a series of ruthless one way rac- vessels in 6 classes --schooner, multi-
Denis Hyland Jazz Quartet 8-11
Caffeine Carl & The Buzz 9:00pm es to the reef to claim the booty. hull, classic, monohull 29’ and under,
Sunday 01/26 This all-in-fun race series recalls the monohull 30-39 feet and monohull
Piano Bar Happy Hour with Any tradition of the wreckers in the Key 40 feet and over. There could also be
Saturday 01/27
West of the 1800’s. Vessels laden with a separate class for Hoebee Cats this
MIKE McADAMS DUO 5PM Mayo 5:30-7:30
rich cargoes from Gulf and Caribbean year! At the race start Key West har-
Caffeine Carl & The Buzz 9:00pm Barry Cuda 8-11 ports often became victims of storm bor is a magnificent sight, filled with
and the unmarked reefs off Key West. colorful sails and spinnakers on vessels
Monday 01/27
The first wrecker to reach the site had ranging from 16 feet to 120 feet.
Saturday 01/28 Sing-A- Long Piano Bar Happy the responsibility to save the passengers This original nautical event is another
MIKE McADAMS DUO 5PM Hour with Malathi 5:30-7:30 and crew---but they also won the right creation of Schooner Wharf Bar owners,
MILE 0 FEST KICKOFF Christine Cordone Jam Session 8-11 to salvage the cargoes. Some historians Evalena and Paul Worthington, and is
AFTER PARTY 10PM have written that it was not unusual for enjoyed by visiting yachters, local private
Tuesday 01/28 20 or 30 boats to race to a wreck. boats and Key West charter vessels. You
Piano Bar Happy Hour with Gayla
The Captains’ Meetings are held on don’t need a boat of your own to partic-
Saturday 01/29 the upper deck of Schooner Wharf at ipate, book passage and crew on one of
Morgan 5:30-7:30
MIKE McADAMS DUO 5PM 7:00 p.m. the Saturday before each the charter boats in the Wreckers’ fleet.
Bluesday Tuesday with Larry race. Captains enjoy complimentary 2020 Race Dates are Sunday, January
MILE 0 FEST PRIVATE PARTIES 10PM
Baeder 8-11 Pusser’s Rum punch and Schooner 26 – February 23 – March 29 and April
Wharf Galley hors d’oeuvres while re- 26. Come join the fun. Fair Winds and
Bottlecap / Blue Room Wednesday 01/29 viewing race procedures. Full Holds --- Wreck Ashore!
1128 Simonton St., The Awards Ceremony & Party is For information please call 292-
Piano Bar Happy Hour with Karen
(305) 296-2807 held at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, race day. 9520. Visit SchoonerWharf.com. Pho-
Heins 5:30-7:30
bottlecapkeywest.com The popular Wreckers BBQ is served tos of previous races are available on the
Victoria Horne 8-11
n to captains & crew while they view Schooner Wharf facebook page. n
15
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020TROPIC SPROCKETS W H AT S H A P P E N I N G
IAN B R O C K WAY
Michigan’s
With each forbidding location the two
walk through, the suspense is palpable.
and of pushing the physical body to its
limit. Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon) Cheap Dates
You will hold your breath.
There is one very pesky black rat that
loves to race cars going well over the
limit even while he is in danger of hav- Play the Hog’s
sets everything in ominous motion.
Suffice to say events are frequent-
ing a heart attack. Cars, danger and
death are all inter-related. Breath Saloon
ly deadly and episodes unfold upon His friend Ken Miles (Christian
Schofield so quickly that he becomes
like a Marvel Avenger in a video
Bale) is a modest man and more ret-
icent, but he is equally driven by ac- T he Cheap Dates - A fun “fresh
water” cover band from Kalam-
1917 game, dodging bullets at a pace that
would make Indiana Jones shake his
celeration. Both men put their lives
second to the superiority of the auto
azoo, Michigan, plays the Hog’s
Breath Saloon’s mid shift, 4:30 –
head in wonder. on the track. 8:30 pm, Jan. 23 – 26.
Again and again, Schofield and In the film, a restless CEO, Henry The Cheap Dates are a guitar and
Blake endure one mishap after an- Ford II (Tracy Letts) is eaten by jeal- drum duo. Together for 16 years, the
other. All is done with very little dia- ousy and wants to beat Enzo Ferrari. two have been performing an aver-
logue. The camera in a long master- He hires Shelby to design a racing age of 180 shows a year up and down
ful takes sets the tone. One look into machine, one to win the 24 Hours of the coastline of Lake Michigan and
Schofield’s eye says it all as his olive Le Mans. University towns. They cover a wide
W ith breathtaking cinematog-
raphy by Roger Deakins, Sam
Mendes’ “1917” takes you to the realm
green iris becomes the exact shade of
his helmet.
Shelby in turn, gets Ken Miles to drive.
The film is an engaging portrait of
range of music from old to new and
a little in between. This marks their
The film won a Golden Globe for two obsessive figures. Shelby is a cool 11th trip to Key West. n
of World War I, one of the most lethal Best Motion Picture and it earns its cowboy type while Miles is slightly in-
wars in Western history. The film is place among a long history of war ward and more reserved, but both con-
immersive, vivid, sardonic and surreal.
It is epic in scale and never lets go of
films that include “Apocalypse Now” nect by their love of fast cars. Atlanta’s Mike
and “Saving Private Ryan.” Letts is entertaining as the stone-
its tension.
The film focuses on Blake (Dean-
“1917” carries us along in its journey faced boss who goes to pieces once Veal Band
feeling like a 3D film with its visceral ef- Shelby takes him for a spin, beyond a
Charles Chapman) and his partner in
war Schofield (George MacKay) and
fect that is poignant as well as jarring. n comfortable pace. at the Hog’s
Catriona Balfe has a scene-stealing
their friendship shared in crisis.
Blake is ordered to deliver a message
Ford v. Ferrari moment as Miles’s wife who drives in
a bloodcurdling reckless fashion to get
Breath Saloon
T
across enemy lines essentially calling to her husband’s truth. he Mike Veal Band, Atlanta’s fa-
off an allied attack, because the Ger- Bale does handily as driver Ken vorite party band brings its en-
man forces are planning an ambush. Miles, who has a near supernatural ergy and excitement to the Hog’s
Blake is determined to succeed, espe- merging with the racing machine Breath Saloon, 400 Front St., Jan. 23
cially because the mission will save the in terms of how the car feels, its - 26, rocking the night stage from
life of his brother. strengths and weaknesses. Damon 9pm – 1am. n.
F
The film excels in atmosphere and or decades I have thought that gives another fine performance as a The band plays a hot combination
virtuosic camera maneuvers. It also J.G. Ballard’s Crash (1973) is one designer with only one thing on his of blues, rock, and funk. Diverse
unfolds like a horror film. The two of the most daring works of literature. mind: racing.
young boys are put in thick trenches. musical backgrounds and region-
Specifically, it is about symphorophil- In watching “Ford v. Ferrari” one
All seems the color of shit. Boots are al influences color each member’s
ia, the sexual arousal and obsession sees two people: Shelby and Miles,
deep in mud and soiled water and gray contribution to the tight sound for
with cars and collisions. Though not pointing to a new beginning of man
corpses pop up like jellyfish, mouths which the band is admired.
for all tastes, it is a great work of Sur- merging with the automobile, a being
agape in mute terror, tongues poking Atlanta partiers and club patrons
realism and I have yet to read any- of metal and mind, chrome and flesh
from the teeth like bologna, as if mak- thing like it. throughout the Southeast know the
poised for our millennium.
ing a joke of death. Barbed wire pre- In the film “Ford v. Ferrari,” directed Ballard would have approved. n band delivers a killer show every
vails over the barren land like a net of by James Mangold, there is something time. Stop by the Hog’s Breath and
poison crosses that draw black blood. of an obsession with cars and speed, Write Ian at ianfree11@yahoo.com see for yourself. n
16
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020T H E AT E R R E V I E W
Glass: The World Premiere of a fascinating true story
an alcoholic has-been on her ump- an unopened bottle of scotch. Will Will Lorette find Amanda—and more
teenth comeback attempt. Williams she or won’t she? And will her deci- important, will Amanda find her? The
is understandably nervous, sure that sion alter the chances of success for answers may not be what you think.
she’ll drink, forget her lines, and ruin the play, and the man who wrote it?
X Continued on page 20
By Joanna Brady his play—or not show up altogether.
In Lorette’s dressing room, they
T he Waterfront Playhouse contin-
ues to celebrate its 80th year with
fresh, exciting work, this time with
thrash out their differences, occa-
sionally reaching agreement on some
things. But it becomes clear that Lor-
the world premiere of a terrific new ette’s interpretation of the character of
two-person play, titled Glass, by Mi- Amanda differs from the playwright’s,
chael Aman. even to the color of the dress Amanda
Aman’s play is based on a true story is supposed to wear.
about a pivotal moment in the career Williams knows something isn’t
of Tennessee Williams, a time when working and has criticized her in re-
he was most vulnerable, facing per- hearsals.
haps his last chance at success. The problem is that Lorette is having
Glass is set in Chicago on Dec. 26, difficulty feeling like the character she
1944. At the heart of the play is the is playing. Lorette is earthy and Irish,
terrible fear of failure by two people fierce and tempestuous. Amanda the
locked in an adversarial relationship. character is an ethereal Southern belle
A very young Tennessee Williams has stuck in the past. One has to question
written a play called The Glass Menag- whether Williams isn’t struggling with
erie, and it is opening night. the character of Amanda himself.
The actress playing the lead role of Through it all, a very important
Amanda Wingfield, is Lorette Taylor, prop sits on Lorette’s dressing table:
Photo: Larry Blackburn
17
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020IN THE KEYS
FLORIDA KEYS SPCA
Rescue Tail Breezy. We couldn’t understand why
the days turned into weeks, weeks into
Easy Breezy months, and eventually into an entire
year. Breezy remained at our Mara-
Beautiful thon Campus until the fateful day that
she met Robert, the day she met her
BY TARA MCFARLAND person.
Director of Operations, Marathon Campus Robert was looking for companion-
ship, someone to share his life with,
T here’s always that one dog that
seems to linger around the shelter,
overlooked by potential families. The
someone to wait patiently by his side
while he worked on his novels; a friend.
Robert was instantly drawn to Breezy,
one that’s sweet, friendly and full of and she climbed all over him and
personality. We do introductions, meet showered him with sloppy kisses. The
and greets, we highlight that particular two went for walks, played together,
animal in our pet of the week segment, and their connection was felt by all of
or bring her to events, and yet at the us. We held our breath when the meet
shelter she remains. At our Marathon finally ended, and with a warm smile
Campus, that dog was Breezy. he asked for adoption paperwork. It
Social, curious, friendly and always was finally a match!
smiling Breezy was instantly a staff and Now, for the first time in her young
volunteer favorite. She could make you life, after a year of patiently waiting,
laugh for hours watching her antics. Breezy was finally going to be in a
On one particular day, when she was home! For 365 days her spirit never
feeling particularly clever, she stood in wavered, as if all along she knew what
the yard upon her dog house, toy in she was waiting for. Together they
mouth, and jumped up on top of the swim, walk and play, they read and
shade sails protecting her outdoor play write together, they complete each
yard from the summer sun. It was as other. Robert understands her funny
if she had been planning it all along, ways and even sends photos of Breezy
she knew instantly what to do once winking at the camera, or sleeping un-
she was up there. She ran and jumped der her dog bed instead of in it. Her
from shade sail to shade sail, bounc- personality shines even brighter now
ing from one to another like a carefree that she’s with her new dad.
child on a trampoline. All the while, The Florida Keys SPCA is a no time
her big smile shining and that toy dan- limit shelter. Healthy adoptable an-
gling from her mouth. We laughed and imals stay at the shelter as long as it
laughed as each time we told her to get takes to find them the right family. For
down, she simply jumped higher and some this can be a year, or even longer.
bounced faster. You see, Breezy was no Caring for dogs like Breezy takes more
Chihuahua, but a sixty pound Ameri- than just time, it takes love and re-
can Staffordshire mix! When the antics sources such as food, medication, pre-
were over and Breezy came down, for ventatives, vaccines and spay/neuter
her safety her dog house was moved surgeries. To help us care for dogs like
but she’d always look up at the shade Breezy your donations to the Florida
sails, reflecting on her time atop the Keys SPCA stay here in the Keys and
colorful bouncy sails. help pets in Key West, the Lower and
It was days like that that made Middle Keys. For more information
staff and volunteers so enamored with visit our website at www.fkspca.org n
18
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020T H E AT E R R E V I E W
Pianist Jim Rice Takes The Spotlight at The Red Barn
J oy Hawkins, the Red
Barn Theatre’s Artistic
Director, has been ask-
Clark, both veterans of many musicals
and musical events around town.
“They’re such good players,” Rice said.
Blondie, and some Crowded House.
It’s all about the mood, right?”
And the Red Barn plays right into
ing Jim Rice to do a solo “Their versatility allows me to do go pret- that mood, Rice says. Now celebrating
show on their stage for ty much anywhere I want to musically.” their 40th consecutive year of bringing
years. To her great delight, he finally And Rice’s show will definitely be top professional theater to Key West,
said “Yes”. taking quite a journey. While it’s a cab- it’s an intimate 88 seat beauty perfect
So on February 2 and 3, Jim Rice aret-type show, Rice stresses that it’s not for shows like Rice’s. In recent years,
will take the Red Barn stage in the a recital – all of the songs have stories they have brought several shows like
spotlight for his own cabaret show, connected to them. And he won’t be “The Mood I’m In” to their stage, in-
“The Mood I’m In”. Tickets are al- sticking just to the American Songbook. cluding another popular show coming
ready in short supply, so head to red- “I will be doing show tunes, of up in March by Key West troubadour
barntheatre.com or call 305-296-9911 JIM RICE course,” Rice said, “but not how they John Wells.
to make sure you get yours. were originally done. I like to give Curtain time for Rice’s show will
“I’ve worked for everybody else,” nessee Williams, and an awful lot of them different and unusual arrange- be 8 pm. The Red Barn’s Gil’s Bar will
Rice said recently, “and on every stage the musicals at the Waterfront and ments, which is fun. There will be open at 7:30 pm each evening, and pa-
in town, usually as the musical ac- Red Barn. Guess it’s time to take the a little country and western, some trons are allowed to bring their drinks
companiment. I’ve done the arrange- mic myself.” Texas swing, some Paul Simon, some into the theater. For more information
ments and led the band for most of Joining Rice on stage will be bass- Cole Porter, some David Frishberg. or tickets, visit redbarntheatre.com or
Randy Roberts’ big shows at the Ten- ist Joe Dallas, and drummer Daniel And then we’ll really cut loose – some call 305-296-9911. n
West Texas Singer-
Songwriter Cliff Cody
Plays the Hog’s Breath
Saloon
W est Texas singer-songwrit-
er Cliff Cody plays the Hog’s
Breath Saloon, 400 Front St., mid-
shift gig – 4:30 – 8:30 p.m., Jan. 27
– Feb. 2.
“Chasin Whiskey,” Cody’s first re-
corded cut was recognized as a high-
light of Julie Roberts’ album “Men
and Mascara” by Rolling Stone Mag-
azine. Since first playing the Key
West Songwriters Festival, Cody has
become a favorite and regular per-
former in the Keys. His soulful voice
and story telling style of writing has
helped him build a loyal following.
He makes fast friends and forever
fans and once you hear him, you’ll
become both. n
19
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020BUSINESS KEY WEST T H E AT E R R E V I E W
Glass: The World Premiere... a sensation for over five hundred performances.
X Continued from page 17 When she died, it was a long time before any-
body dared replace her. It was Williams’ first
If you consider the title of this play, Glass, successful play; he went on to become one of
fragility comes to mind. And you wonder if America’s most highly regarded playwrights.
the characters will be the fragile element. Will The casting in this production is terrific.
they be delicate, breakable, easy to crack? Or Tim Torre, no stranger to the Key West stage,
perhaps the play is about what goes into a is excellent in delivering Williams in a rich Mis-
glass—like scotch? sissippi accent in his dress clothes and dazzling
On the surface, it’s a battle of a woman strug- patent leather black and white spectator shoes.
gling to regain her glory and a playwright desper- Merry Jo Cortada is a fabulous, seasoned pro-
ate to gain a foothold in the theatre world, but as fessional, with a CV too long to list here. She is
the play unfolds, we discover there is more to it the perfect Lorette, even to the slight Irish lilt.
than that. There is a third element to this play— Orchestrating their repartee, arguments,
the demon they both share. and reconciliations, is director Michael Bush,
Williams had a lot riding on The Glass Me- the Artistic Director of the Jerry Herman Ring
nagerie. Through the rear view mirror, we all Theatre at University of Miami. Michael Boy-
know that he needn’t have worried: The Glass er has designed the set with his usual amazing
Menagerie was the play that catapulted him talent and creativity.
from obscurity to fame; the success of which What more perfect venue to attend a play
could hardly have been predicted in 1944. about Tennessee Williams than in Key West-
Further, though he denied it was a ‘memory -a place he once called his home? This is en-
play’, The Glass Menagerie, with its strong au- tertaining drama, beautifully acted, and not
tobiographical elements, featured characters to be missed.
based on its author, his histrionic mother, and Glass runs from Jan. 14 till Feb. 1, 2020. A
his mentally fragile sister, so the play meant a special talk-back with the author and director
lot to Williams personally. follows the Fri. Jan. 17 performance. The play
Glass is a superb play, delivered with a whole runs about 90 minutes. There is no intermis-
range of emotion, even humor at times. The style sion. Order your tickets by calling the box of-
reflects the tightly wound intensity of the char- fice at 305 294-5015 or by visiting waterfront-
acters, perfect for their interplay of insults and playhouse.org. Ask about date night, student,
compliments in a claustrophobic dressing room. and military discounts. n
The Director’s Notes tell us that after its pre- (Joanna Brady is a local writer, author of the
miere in Chicago in 1944, The Glass Menagerie historical Key West novel, The Woman at the
went on to Broadway where Lorette Taylor was Light, published by St. Martin’s Press)
Monday - Friday
Two Course Menu
Pick One Starter and One Entree
+ Half off Desserts
$24.00 | 5 to 7PM
*Not valid on holidays
f i n e d i n i n g at t h e
ONE DUVAL STREET | 305.295.3255 | PIERHOUSE.COM | Reservations Recommended
20
www.konklife.com • JANUARY 23-29, 2020You can also read
