2023 WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE AQUA IDOL STARTS FEBRUARY 20!
Tuesday, February 14, 2023

FEBRUARY 13 THRU FEB. 20, 2023…IN KEY WEST WITH LYNDA

*****AQUA IDOL IS BA-ACK!!!! BETTER THAN EVER!!!!…FEB. 20, 27, MARCH 6. 13. 20, 27, APRIL 3 AND 10!!!!  After a three year hiatus we are resurrecting the Waterfront Playhouse Aqua Idol Fundraiser.  It will begin on MONDAY, FEB. 20, from 6 to to 8pm at Aqua Nightclub, 711 Duval St.  I am coordinating it again for the umpteenth time, and have assembled a very talented group of Vocalists who will give of their time and talent for our esteemed Playhouse.  Their names are DOMINIC PAOLILLO…IAIN WILCOX… GLORIA WEST… JESSICA MIANO-KRUEL… PUDDIN JACOMINE…JORDAN UPCHURCH…TIM DAHMS… SARAH PERKINS… JESS WACHS… SAMUEL COSTILOW… BELISA SINGER… RAY WEST… MARIA MOUKA WALLACE… KELSEY ELLIOTT… JUSTIN CAMMADO… ROBBY LA BLANC. They also have the opportunity to win super prize packages plus the coveted Title 2023 Waterfront Playhouse Aqua Idol.   They are superstars for sure! Get there early and see the BEST FREE to Attend Show in Town!  Mark your calendars and come and have a joyful time and support our Vocalists and the Waterfront Playhouse!!!!  Laurie Thibaud is our Emcee. and I will be joined by two guest Judges every week!  The delightful Waterfront Playhouse Board Co-President, Christopher Elwell and superb entertainer Dave Bootle will be there as Judges Extraordinaire on Feb. 20!!!!    NOTE:(If there is someone out there who may be interested in performing in this great Event, contact me ASAP… I ‘may’ be able to squeeze you in!!!!  Let me know at 305-393-6273 or email me at kwlynda@bellsouth.net.  Thanks!)  

TIP-CONTAINER PASSERS WANTED…… If anyone out there would like to help with passing the Tip containers while the Vocalists are singing during Aqua Idol,  please let me know by texting or emailing me.  THANK YOU.  L

ALSO….If you would like to contact me, direct all messages to kwlynda@bellsouth.net,  I am interested in all you may have to say.  Also, if you have any information that I could use in this blog, please send it to me and I will try to  include it next time.  Lynda

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MONDAY, FEB. 13, 2023
HAPPY FEB. 13 BIRTHDAY TO….SHELDON DAVIDSON…ABBY MOORE …BETH MOYES… MARTY STONELY…CHRIS TANNER… NANCY MOULTON …LIZ KERN… VICKI PERFECT

LOTS OF GREAT  EVENTS HAPPENING IN KEY WEST!!!!  MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!
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***”KINKY BOOTS” AT WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE..OPENS THIS WEEK!!!!… The esteemed Playhouse has had a string of wonderfully successful presentations this season…. including Escape From Margaritaville, Rock of Ages, Fully Committed and An Inspector Calls and now we await the opening of the Award-Winning Musical, KINKY BOOTS!!!  It opens on Feb.  15,in Preview and the Grand Opening is Thursday, Feb. 16.  Word on the street is that it is super FABULOUS and you will NOT want to miss it.  So, get tix now at 305-294-5015 or go online to www.waterfrontplayhouse.org.  

2nd ANNUAL IGGY AWARDS TONIGHT FEB. 13….7 TO 9 PM at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St.  This is Key West’s answer to the Grammy Awards, Key West Style….The hottest musicians, vocalists, etc.  are nominated for these prestigious awards in various categories.  Tix online or at the door.  Thanks to Ray West (in Aqua Idol and Kinky Boots) for helping create this wonderful event to benefit non-profits in town…. this one benefits the Bahama Village Children’s Music program.

DICK MOODY HAS NEW BOOKS OUT….Talented Local artist, author, musician and poet, Dick Moody has written a wonderful new book called  ‘ANECDOTES:FROM AN UNLIKELY SOURCE’ (which I am really enjoying!) and ‘POEMS WHILE YOU WAIT’…Copies are on sale now by contacting Dick at richardsaxbee@gmail.com or calling him at 305-942-1758.  Books are only $10 each  with Free shipping and handling!  Highly Recommended!!!!

**TAVERN N TOWN….NEW TAPAS MENU…Served nightly from 5 to 7 pm at the Bar….. Only $7 each and they are ALL delish!…Choose from Oyster Rockefeller…Giant Meatball… KW Bang Bang Shrimp….Lamb Lollipops…Asian Sticky Ribs….Classic shrimp cocktail….and      Spicy Salmon Bites….Also… they have a BOGO for drinks from 5 to 7 pm.    (We sure do miss their Local $19.95 specials when seated by 6:30 pm!!!)   

THE GINGERBREAD SQUARE GALLERY….FEB. 13…Opening Reception for artists Todd Bonita and Nyla Witmore introducing their new collection of paintings…. 5-7:30 pm…..1207 Duval St.  Celebrating 49 wonderful Years!   

GLORIA WEST, JAZZ SINGER….. Delighted to have Gloria performing for Aqua Idol.  She has so much pizzazz!  Go to her website at www.gloriawestmusic.com to see where and when she is performing around town.

***LATEDA…. LATEDA …. Performing in the Crystal Room at Lateda at 9 pm during February are Christopher Peterson’s EYECONS show and Randy Roberts LIVE!  You will not see  finer shows in Vegas, trust me!!!!   Show….1125 Duval St.  To check on the  schedule go to the Lateda website…Showtime is 9 pm.  You can reserve seats by going directly to Lateda or on the website.  They do not take phone reservations.   Downstairs in the Lounge most every eve of the week at 8:30 pm, are either the Fabulous Spectrelles….. or 3SUM…..both wonderful!  Every Sunday at 4 pm is the Lateda Tea Dance with Rude Girl spinning the records to dance the night away!…great fun always!  The superb 3 SUM performs on Thursday thru Monday in the Lounge at 8:30 pm. And the Fabulous Spectrelles are on Tues. and Wed. at 8:30 pm……And Dinner at Lateda is always first class!!!!!! 

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB, FEB. 13….5:30-7:30 …5:30-7:30 it’s Matt Butler at the piano… 8 pm, it is Peter Diamond & Co….. This great Jazz Club is fabulous!  Wonderful entertainment every single night and also during the late afternoon and early evening.  Delish food and drinks and owned and operated by the dashing couple, Wayne Larue Smith and Denis Hyland!

THE GARDENS HOTEL EVERY MONDAY. ….from 5 to 7 pm it’s Mary Spear.  526 Angela St. (subject to change weekly)

AT VIVA SALOON ON MONDAYS…..Robert Douglas entertains…. 6 to 9 pm….

VOCAL  COACH….JESSICA WACHS….Jess is a wonderful Vocal Coach whose expertise and guidance will help you improve all aspects of your vocal ability.  She offers classes for aspiring singers… expert singers needing new depth and feedback….confidence building….communication enhancing…and for those just wanting to develop a new hobby!  She runs The Vocal Lab!!!!  For information go to Jess at rumbleabq@gmail.com or call her at 505-999-9230.  (Delighted that Jess is performing for the Waterfront Playhouse Aqua Idol and is in the Cast of KINKY BOOTS!!!!)

AQUANETTES PERFORM …SHOWS EVERY SINGLE NIGHT.  Aqua Nightclub at 711 Duval St. is the place to see the most fabulous Drag Queens….including FAITH…INGA ….ELLE…JESSICA… BEATRIX…… MAYA…and  EPIPHANY (aka Calen Tomaszewski)!!!  All are sublime!  Shows are  Monday and Tuesday at 9 pm….and from Wednesday thru Sunday, there are two shows…at 7 pm and 9 pm.  ..Reserve at www.aquakeywest.com.  Aqua is open from noon to 2 am nightly…. drink specials… full menu… lunch specials….  I recommend reserving a table…. call 305-294-0555.  or go online to www.aquakeywest.com.    Also at Aqua…. there is the Back Bar, the Side Bar , the Outdoor Poke Bar and Grill, and each has its own personality!!!!!

THE STUDIOS GATHERINGS AT HUGH’S VIEW….The Studios is sponsoring these GLOW eves.    Cash bar available.  Limited to 50 per visit.   Hugh Ware, the View’s namesake, was one of the dearest, most adorable persons we ever knew. For more info go to www.tskw.org.  The GLOW Hours are 6-8 pm.    FREE with advance registration.  533 Eaton St. 

TAVERN N TOWN…..FEB. 13 and 20……ROB DI STASI performs from 5 to 9 pm….This entertainer is just getting better and better…..smooth as silk!

CONGRATS TO MATTHEW RAWLS….The ultra talented MATTHEW RAWLS, is now the Executive Director at The Tennessee Williams Theatre.  Former ED, Frank Wood has left Key West and  Matthew has seamlessly taken his place.  The Theatre is in excellent hands!

MAJ JOHNSON NOT JUST A FAB JAZZ SINGER…BUT ALSO TEACHES WATERCOLOR CLASSES….Maj (a former Aqua Idol) gives classes once monthly at The Old Stone Church Coffeehouse.  She charges $20. per class and the profits go to charity.  For more info call or text her at 305-587-8455 or email her at maryanne.johnson@westcare.com.  

MY BLOG ALSO AT CONCHTV….  You can also go  to https://www.conchtv.com/author/lynda and get my blog anytime…. also the current birthday and anniversary lists…. and my picture too!!!  And the Frechette Gazette from 2021!!!

801 CLUB…….Famous Drag Shows are at 801 Duval St… every night at 9 or 11 pm.  Book Online….. www.801.bar or call 305-923-9296.  The amazing and internationally known Sushi runs the show with amazing Drag Queens with names like  Puddin, Deja, Mulysa, Marilyn, Racquel, Kylie . 

THE TROPIC CINEMA AT 416 EATON ST…. For info on movie schedules and house rules go to http://www.tropiccinema.com or call 305-396-4944. Go online to reserve your times. 

THE BIRTHDAY AND ANNIVERSARY LISTS…….. Please let me know if you would like me to forward you these lists….. Simply send me a request at kwlynda@bellsouth.net and I will send you this month’s complete Personality Description plus all those I know who are celebrating birthdays and anniversaries during this special time of year!!!  Also, let me know if you want to be added to it .. You can also see it by going to https://www.conchtv.com/author/lynda… and then scroll down.
THE 2022 FRECHETTE GAZETTE….  Let me know if you would like me to send you our Annual Gazette and I will email it to you.  Request this at kwlynda@bellsouth.net.

SUPPORT SOS………Many Monroe County residents are living below the poverty line.  SOS (Star of the Sea) Kitchens have long been providing food for those in need.   PLEASE Support SOS and other orgs such as Sister Season Fund with donations if you can.  Go to…. https://cffk.org/non-profits/sister-season-fund-inc

AWESOME FOUNDATION KEY WEST!!!  ..   The mission of the group is to bring more awesomeness to our town, and  awarding $1,000 grants, with no strings attached, to the most awesome idea, project, proposal, or plan that is presented to the Group of Trustees, who each plop down from their own pockets the money to fund the Grant.  Sounds totally AWESOME to me!!!  Check it out online at www.awesomefoundationkeywest.org.   Michael Shields is the coordinator of this group.

BIRTHDAY/ANNIVERSARY LISTS….If you would like to be included in the Birthday and Anniversary Lists that I send out every month, please let me know your month and day by sending that info to me at kwlynda@bellsouth.net.  There are special perks to being on the lists!!!!  One of the perks is having your name in KONK Life on the day of your Birthday!!! 

 PRAYER CHAIN…..Please continue to remember the following in your thoughts and prayers….. ……    Please include prayers for…..Rosi Ware… Noreen Collins…. Dick Moody…. Tanya Leto …..Ann Whipple… Julia Davis…. Johnny and Audrey Pollizi…..   James Hollabaugh …..Pony Charvat…. Kitty Clements…. Tim Dunn ……Bill Schmock  … Me…. Michael Benner  …… Carey Moore…. Jo Gerenger   ….Genevieve Isaksen ……..Laura Hettinger. … ….David Buffam ….Lorann Wood  ….. Paul Politte……..Pat West . ….The People of the Ukraine …… Chuck Selph…..Ann Marie Adreani  ….Sharron Mondo ….Len & Helen Stevens .. …..Mary Larkin .…Maryann Barth …Bella Rettenwander  …..Dawn de Boer  …… Lou Ann Cymont … Cheryl Walchli … Bert Peranteau …..Terri White …John Padget  ….. ….Todd Reifschneider  ……Pat Waller   …Marta White  ….… Peter Deksmith … …. Anne McKee ……… Pamella C. Bocdow. …Dee Dee Duecker …Tony Freese… Jennifer O’Lear……Patrick Richards.   Remember, there are many reasons that we pray…not just because people are ill…. I do believe that when we all send prayers and good vibes to those in need, those prayers mystically meet and surround those being prayed for.  Sometimes we pray for miracles and the impossible….sometimes we pray to just cope with the results of what happens to those we are praying for.  Sometimes we pray for strength to go on and to accept…sometimes we pray for thanksgiving.  We are in this thing called ‘Life’ together….and we all have power within us to help our fellow man.  Bless you for remembering our loved ones….Prayer changes things!  Let me know if you know of anyone who should be added to this list. 
 
BOB FRECHETTE=FABULOUS REALTOR IN TOWN!!!!…..Need a realtor in town?  My husband BOB FRECHETTE IS YOUR MAN!!!!  He has been with the marvelous Compass Realty ( NOW Keller-Williams Compass) for 20+ years …Give him a call at 305-304-2584!  Email him at rfrechette@bellsouth.net.  He is the BEST! I promise!!!!  Honest, Loyal, Fair, and Adorable too!!!  He will have only have YOUR best interests at heart.   

A PUN or LEXOPHILE FOR YOU…Went to this horrible bar called The Fiddle.  It really was a Vile Inn!!!
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TUESDAY. FEB. 14 VALENTINE’S DAY!!!!
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY TO ALL MY SWEETHEARTS READING THIS RIGHT NOW!

HAPPY FEB. 14TH  BIRTHDAY TO….MARY ANN WORTH…CATHY WEBSTER…CARL McMACKIN…LINDA HULLIGAN…ALAN VAN WIEREN…RONNIE RUPE…ANTHONY PROTOPSATTIS…(Please remember…. NORMA GILMORE….LOIS KLINE…MARINA MOSHER…BOB ARNOLD.) …. HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO…. KATE REGAN & KEN SILVERMAN … BERT WHITT & DENNIS BEAVER…MELODY COOPER & DAN SIMPSON …ALISON & ANDY WEIMER….. DIANE & BUD HARDESTY….
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WESLEY HOUSE 40TH ANNUAL VALENTINE’S DAY GALA…FEB. 14….6:30-9:30 PM at Coffee Butler amphitheater at Truman Park….Delish food by Catered Affairs…  VIP OPEN BAR….. and dance to the sounds of Patrick and the Swayzees.  Get tix at 305-809-5000.

TAVERN N TOWN…FEB. 14 and 21 …WONDERFUL MUSIC…with Carmen Rodriguez with James King….5 to 7 pm!!!!  Carmen packs em in!

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB… FEB. 14….Live entertainment from 5:30-7:30 it is Paull Warthen …..and at 8 pm…. it is Seth Kessel & Yacht Club Swing Band….. 821 Duval St.  The Place to be for JAZZ!!!!

INGHAM SHIP TOURS…..Open for Tours Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm.  $15 for adults and $5 for kiddies.  Happy Hour is held from one hour before and one hour after sunset each Friday and Saturday weather permitting…$5. This grand ship is located at the Truman Waterfront Park! Thanks to Bill Verge for all his dedication to the Ingham!!!!!  Contributions to keep the Ingham a afloat and thriving are requested   Send to www.USCGCINGHAM.ORG….These donations will help restore and save this National Historic Landmark and Treasure.  Also send them to BILL VERGE at PO Box 186, Key West, FL 33041.  

FOR COMPLETE LIST OF GREAT CLASSES OFFERED BY THE STUDIOS, GO TO WWW.TSKW.ORG.

**FLAMING GUNS OF THE PURPLE SAGE AT THE RED BARN THEATRE …RUNS THROUGH FEB. 25TH…..This hilarious play stars a great cast of Susannah Wells, Iain Wilcox, Tim Dahms (Iain & Tim are in Aqua Idol)…Cassidy Timms, George DiBraud…Mathias Maloff….and Jack McDonald…. If you want an evening filled with hilarity you must see this show!  Go to www.redbarntheatre.com for tix.   Other shows coming up are……March 7-March 25….”The Code”…..”Short Attention Span Theatre, 2023″ is the final show.

KARI WOLF AT MANGOES…FEB. 14 AND FEB. 21 AND 28…..AT 8 PM!!!!!

COMEDY KEY WEST……We are so lucky to have a great Comedy Club in Key West.  Well known comedians are brought in from throughout the nation and they are hilarious.    For ALL information on what is going on nearly every day at this super spot located at 218 Whitehead St…..Go to www.comedykeywest.comto get tix and see the monthly lineup…. Or call 305-985-7370.
Also…there are some fun special events and our local Comedians are fabulous and usually are the starting act for the headliner.

AT VIVA SALOON…. EVERY TUESDAY EVE, …..Coconut Koalas Duo …performs from 6 to 9 pm.

NOTE THAT…..COMING UP IN MARCH IS TENNESSEE WILLIAMS MONTH AND  THERE ARE A SERIES OF FAB EVENTS HAPPENING DURING THIS ENTIRE MONTH.  GO ONLINE TO FIND A SCHEDULE OF EVENTS AND MORE INFO TO COME FROM ME LATER!!!  Thanks to DENNIS BEAVER!

**RED BARN PRESENTATION, THRU FEB. 25….”Flaming Guns of the Purple Sage”….Get tix at www.redbarntheatre.com or call 305-296-9911.   A wild and wacky fun ride!!!!

NEIL BERG’S 50 YEARS OF ROCK N’ ROL…PART 3…FEB. 28 ….8 pm…. This is at Tennessee Williams Theatre and it is always a big crowd-pleaser.  Berg brings some fab vocalists and weaves wonderful rock n’ roll stories along with the music.  Get tix at www.keystix.com.  This is a Producer’s Circle Production.

LOUIS PETRONE PODCAST EVERY TUESDAY…..Resident sage bon vivant, and raconteur, Louis Petrone, who knows a LOT about EVERYTHING…. will rant and rave, and expound on all the goings on in the world, under the sun!!!!!…and then some!!!!  Always interesting …never dull!  Go to:  www.blogtalkradio.com/key-west-lou.  Catch Lou’s podcast every Tuesday!  Also.. Read Lou’s great columns and his unique insight on just about everything, in KONK Life every day!

THE GARDENS HOTEL EVERY TUESDAY…… Kenneth Albert Duo …..entertaining from 5 to 7 pm in the Atrium.

THE KEY WEST GARDEN CLUB AT HIGGS BEACH OPEN…… 9:30-5 pm on Sat…..daily.  Free admission….1100 Atlantic Blvd.   

STRING MUSICIANS SOUGHT…. The KW Community String Orchestra is seeking those who play violin, cello, viola, etc. at all levels of experience.  For info contact Lynn-Marie at lynnmariekw@gmail.com. 
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WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15…..

HAPPY FEB. 15  BIRTHDAY TO …..CAROL TEDESCO….DONNA STABILE…. JOY RODRIGUEZ… AMBER DALAKAS….ANDREW GONZALEZ….HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO…. BROOK AND LARRY MEYERS…. (Please remember Larry Harvey and Allan Ferguson.)
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*****”KINKY BOOTS” OPENS IN PREVIEWAT WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE…..FEB. 15… This Musical will Knock Your Boots Off!!!!  You will NOT want to miss this show at the Waterfront Playhouse!  It is the Perfect Key West Musical… a show you will take to your heart!  Directed by Tom Thayer…set design by Michael Boyer….Musical Direction by Michael Fauss …Choreography by Carolyn Cooper….Costumes by Maine State Music Theatre…Stage Manager, Trish Manley.  The spectacular cast includes… RICHARD QUINT…COURTNEY DEASE…BRIAN ROBINSON… TALITHA JONES… JESSICA MIANO-KRUEL… JAMES HARCUP… JIM SPEAKE… RILEY VOGEL… JORDAN CRAWFORD… ERVIN TUMM… ZACHARY FRANCHINI ….JILLIAN TODD…CAROLYN COOPER … JESSICA WACHS… RAY WEST … BARBARA MUNDY …JACK D’EMILLIO… JOHN SWANN …AND ANDREW THEEDE.  For tix go to…..www.waterfrontplayhouse.org or call the box office at 305-294-5015.  (We already have tickets for three nights….It will be a Happening!)  I am also SO thrilled that Jessica Miano-Kruel, Ray West and Jess Wachs are performing in The 2023 Waterfront Playhouse Aqua Idol starting Feb. 20!!!!

**’SEE JANE RUN’ AT THE STUDIOS…FEB. 15-18…. RUN don’t Walk to get tickets for this delightful original new musical by Maribeth Graham and Dana P. Grove.  Stars…Maribeth, Lauren Thompson, and Krysten Cummings…directed by Murphy Davis, choreographed by Kyla Piscopink….We saw it on Feb. 9 and really enjoyed it immensely!  These three gals are dynamos and the songs and stories are poignant and lovely..happy and sad, and relatable.  At the Studios, 533 Eton St….. at 8 pm… go to www.tskw.org or call 305-296-0458.

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB….WEDNESDAY AT 5:30-7:30… Karen Heins at the Piano… . AT 8 PM… Joe Dallas and Friends including Skippo…..great Jazz from our fab local artists…

TAVERN N TOWN ….WED. FEB. 15…..MIKE EMERSON… performs…5 TO 9 PM…..On FEB. 22  it’s RB Tolar.

* “EL ISLENO”OPENS FOR FRINGE ON FEB. 15…..This is an exciting new, untold story by KW Legend in his own time…. Ben Harrison…. on Feb. 15-25….at KW Armory at 600 White St.  7 pm…. This exciting new Musical is directed by Rebecca Tomlinson….Starring….Trey Forsyth, Wayne Larue Smith, Jim Argoudelis, Wilhelmina Lopez, Aramis Ikatu, Mariah Woessner, Gregory James, Wayne Dapser, Chas Hickey, Alana Thurston, Elisabet Garcia, Gil Parker …and the Red Rooster Band under the direction of Michael Robinson and band members, Larry Baeder, Pauli Walterson, and Zito Lovell.  Call the box office at 305-731-0581 or go to www.fringetheater.org.  

OTHER FRINGE PRODUCTIONS….. “WOMAN OF THE WORLD” OPENS MARCH 14-18….. starring the fabulous KITTY CLEMENTS …A ONE WOMAN SHOW presented at The Woman’s Club…. ‘THE OTHER PLACE”….April 12-22…. 7 pm at The Armory, 600 White St….’THE LAST FIVE YEARS” …March 10-20….at the Armory….                                                       

COMEDY CLUB OFFERS LOCAL DISCOUNT….The Comedy Club Owners are offering Locals a HUGE discount off your tickets…ONLY to Locals.  When you get your tix at checkout online enter your code LOCAL at www.comedykeywest.com to get your discount.  Big thanks to Joe Madaus and Nathan Knight and all those running  this super Club!!!!

IVAN NEVILLE AT LITTLE PALM ISLAND….FEB. 15…Show at 8 pm…. Get tix at www.keystix.com.

****DAVE BOOTLE AT MANGOES….WEDNESDAY THRU SATURDAY EVERY SINGLE WEEK…DAVE BACK IN TOWN!!!!….. Enjoy this marvelous entertainer… one of Key West’s true GEMS….. and dance the night away… You are SURE to have the best time ever!  9 pm…till Midnight. ….DON’T MISS!!!!!!  Dave packs em in…and it always a party with Dave!!!!!   
THANKFUL ON WEDNESDAY…..I am grateful for many things and mostly for so many people who have touched my life in special ways of late…..Kate Miano and Jessica Miano-Kruel….Bruce Moore……Belisa Singer…. Mary Lynne Price….Bunnie Smith…. Billy Cartledge & Jim Hall… Jeffrey Ware…Noreen Collins…. Rosi Ware….John Smyth…Mary Carlin & Bill Porter… Steve Lowe….Greg Collins…Gerry & Pam Bernat ….Jess Wachs…. Brian Robinson and Brendan Hill… Laurie Thibaud… Michael Ingram… Chris Elwell..Jim Argoudelis and Dan Ward …….Sally Stevens & Rob Zadkovich…. Ed Stevens…. Maryann Westerlund…….. Nand Pandey  ….Christopher Peterson… …..Lucy Barker …..The Choir at St. Mary SOS……Melissa Lang ……George Fernandez ….Mary Lynne Price….. Sam Trophia…. .Fr. John Baker ….Harrel Odom and Barry Cook….Melissa Lang……Pamela Spence…. Tom Thayer….. Kate Regan & Ken Silverman…….. George Chase ….Bobby Nesbitt…… Scott Burau & Eric Teves……Maria Zito Kaufman …Dave Bootle …. Tonto Zotola … Paul & Pam Vereb…… Diane Strong …..Gary & Tom Groetz  …..Patrick Hayes.. Kristen & Jim  Ryan…. Jani Krejcirova…..The Stevens and Frechette Families ….Louis Petrone……….All those who sent special Valentine’s Day cards and greetings….and MOST of all my dearest husband BOB!!!!

AT THE GARDENS HOTEL.. WEDNESDAYS…….. The fabulous Belle Jampol will entertain from 5 to 7 pm at The Gardens…. Belle is the ultra talented…daughter of Penny Leto and Mateo Jampol. 

BEN HARRISON’S NEW MUSICAL AT FRINGE…OPENS FEB. 15 thru FEB. 25…Title is EL ISLENO 1921: THE UNTOLD KEY WEST STORY…..This original musical by multi-talented,  Ben Harrison,  will be told in ragtime and jazz….Directed by Rebecca Tomlinson….musical director, Michael Robinson… This is a huge undertaking and donations are being accepted to help get this show onstage!  100% tax deductible….You can advertise or  to be a sponsor.  Find out all the   Advertising Rates by going to fringetheater.org…. Or contact Helen Harrison at 305-294-0609…. or email her at hh@harrison-gallery.com.  Note that this show will be presented at The Armory at 600 White St.     

JOIN THE FRIENDS OF THE KW LIBRARY…Go to www.friendsofthekeywestlibrary.org.  Join or Renew for the Season.  If you act now your membership will extend to Jan. 1, 2023.
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 16 ………

HAPPY FEB. 16 BIRTHDAY TO…..SHIRLEY FREEMAN….LANCE TAYLOR…. DANIEL CLARK…. MISSY MASCHAL … DONALD SCHIFF…. PHIL SHELDON ….QUEEN KATHLEEN GREER ….(Please remember….Fred A. Stevens….Arlene Doty….David Deal.)
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******”KINKY BOOTS” GRAND OPENING AT THE WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE!!!!  FEB. 16 … 8 PM …Key West is abuzz with excitement with the grand opening of this award-winning musical!  You will have the time of your life enjoying this production that promises to sell out!  Make sure you get tix NOW at www.waterfrontplayhouse.org or call 305-294-5015.  There will be a super After Party after this Feb. 16 Production!!! The AFTER Party for opening night will be sponsored by Bill and Renay Regardie and catered by Bagatelle Restaurant!

FARMER’S MARKET… THURSDAY……2 to 7 pm every Thursday….. … Produce, beverages, music, seafood, apparel, cheeses,  gifts, art, books, etc…. fun….

SOUTHERNMOST CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY EVENT…FEB. 16…. 7 pm at St. Paul’s Church on Duval St.  Four Hands…Back Together Again…. Yes… Four people playing one piano at the same time!!!!  This could be your FIRST time to see such an event!  Tix available at Evenbrite or at the door.  $30.  Note their final concert is March 16 at 7 pm….

TAVERN N TOWN ..FEB.16 & 23…..Thursday 5 to 9 pm…..in the Lounge! …… Carmen performs with James King from 5-9 pm….Better get there EARLY IF YOU WANT A SEAT IN THE LOUNGE!!!!

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB……..THURSDAYS..5:30-7:30, The Ken & George Duo …. Entertainment at 8 pm with Skipper Kripitz and Company!!!! Music at its best.. 821 Duval St.  

KEY WEST ART & HISTORICAL DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER SERIES LECTURE, FEB. 16….6 to 7 pm at the Tropic Cinema at 416 Eaton St.  Theme is ‘SS GEORGE  LAW & KEY WEST SHIP OF GOLD” by Dr. Brian Magrane.  Go to KWAHS website for tix and more information.

KARI WOLF AT TIKI HOUSE ON GREENE ST…. 7:30 TO 11:30 PM.   

****DEBRA & PATRICK ….What Joy!  This fab duo  was in town after a four year hiatus and they appeared just about everywhere and we gladly followed them wherever they performed!!!!!    They are beloved and we hope and pray that our Clubs will bring them back time and time again as they are very missed!!!!! It was also great to enjoy that saxy TIM MAYER!!!!!

CORAL REEF RESTORTION SHOW….VIP SERIES…7 PM…GET TIX AT www.keystix.com.

*****WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE 2023 SEASON SHINES!!! ………The dynamite musical “KINKY BOOTS” will be presented Feb. 14 thru March 18….starring RICHARD QUINT….COURTNEY DEASE… JESSICA MIANO-KRUEL ….CAROLYN COOPER … RAY WEST…JILLIAN TODD…. BARBARA MUNDY…. ERVIN TUMM…. JIM SPEAKE… JAMES HARCUP….JOHN SWANN….JACK D’EMILIO…CHRISTIAN MATOS…JORDAN CRAWFORD.  Award-winning musical by Harvey Fierstein and Cyndi Lauper….ON MARCH 5 will be “Trunk Material” starring a number of Key West actors and entertainers one night only….MARCH 12 & 13….”SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER”…..(In honor of Tennessee Williams Birthday Month)…..ON APRIL 6-22, it’s Pulitzer Prize winning play, THREE TALL WOMEN. starring  LESLIE GREEENE, MAGGIE McCALLISTER, and JESSICA MIANO-KRUEL……..ON MAY 11-27 WILL BE…. The beloved comedy, “ARSENIC AND OLD LACE” starring KW Legendary Actress/comedienne, GERRI LOUISE GATES & PEGGY MONTGOMERY!  ….. During Pride Week, on June 7-10, will be HEDWIG & THE ANGRY INCH, starring the talented, PHILLIP COLE WHITE.  Wrapping the glorious season will be ‘CHARLOTTE’S WEB” based on the lovely children’s book by EB White….only June16 & 17.  You do NOT want to miss a single show so go to www.waterfrontplayhouse.org or call 305-294-5015 for tickets NOW… And please become a member of the Playhouse…so many perks at every level of membership. 

AT THE GARDENS HOTEL EVERY THURSDAY… ….From 5 to 7 pm,   Paul Warthen entertains…..

BEREAVEMENT MEETINGS EVERY THURS…….If you are working through the grief process of losing someone dear, there is help for you.  Join this caring Support Group at 7:15 pm at the Klaus-Murphy Center at the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea.  You are not alone….  God bless Velma Christian for her special ministry, _______________________________________________________________
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2023….. 

HAPPY FEB. 17TH BIRTHDAY TO…JIM HALL….. ANDREW FLORIO…. KATHEY FATICA…. MIKE MARRERO …. MARY O’SHEA…. (Please remember Rosalie Zito…. Kayla Toller…Leon Williams.)
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****” KINKY BOOTS AT WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE”….. DO NOT MISS… RUNS THRU MARCH 18….Call 305-294-5015 or go online to www.waterfrontplayhouse.org to get tix!!!

KEY WEST HOME TOURS… FEB. 17 AND 18…ALSO MARCH 17 & 18….Tix are $55 per person…Members of OIRF are $45.  Or $60 at the door the day of the event.  For info on this event go to www.oirf.org/home-tours/ or call 305-294-9501.  One of the most charming and captivating homes in Key West, 313 William St. is one of the fab houses on the Tour… owned by VERY special Friends!!!!!

JERRY DOWNS AND FRIENDS STAR AT AQUA EVERY FRIDAY….FEB. 17,24, MARCH 3 & 10…. On Aqua Main Stage from 4 to 6 pm….Jerry and his Group are all wonderful, crowd-pleasers with great voices and all past Aqua Idol winners!!!!  711 Duval St.

THE GARDENS HOTEL EVERY FRIDAY… … .John Hobbins entertains .In the Atrium…. From 5 to 7 pm, …  526 Angela St. (could change weekly)

***TERRI WHITE PERFORMS EVERY FRIDAY AT PAPA PILAR’S RUM FACTORY…3 to 6 pm. FRI., .. Located at the corner of Greene and Simonton Sts.

KWAHS FUNDRAISER…FEB. 17…This is a Prohibition themed party dinner at the A1A Speakeasy aka Ft. East Martello at 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd. from 6 to 10 pm…open bar and surf n turf dinner..cigar lounge…jazz music by Skipper’s Key West Jazz Band!  Bert Bender will be honored with the 2023 Scott Merrill Preservation Award for his continued dedication to historic preservation in Key West.  For tix go to www.kwahs.org/up-comingevents.

TAVERN N TOWN…..FEB. 17 & 24…R.B. TOLAR entertains from 5 to 7 pm!!!!

JIM MESSINA AT KEY WEST THEATER, FEB. 17…. 8 pm at 512 Eaton St.

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB….ENTERTAINMENT EVERY FRIDAY, FEB. 17.. 821 Duval St.  At 5:30-7:30, Mike Dennis at the piano …… and at 8 pm it is Barry Cuda and the Sharks!!!!!

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS FISH FRY RESUMES…STARTS FEB. 24, AND  ALSO, MARCH 3,10,17,24 31.  All invited….Fried or baked fish…conch fritters, coleslaw French fries and dessert…$15 per adult…$5 for kiddies.  5:30-7:15 (last serving) at The Renna Activity Center on Windsor behind the Basilica.  Free parking.

MIDTOWN WEST MEANDER…. FEB. 24 & 25…. Garden Tours and Talks…. Get more info call 305-294-3718 or get tix at www.keywestgardenclub.com.
       
*VIVA SALOON…EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY… CHRISTINE CORDONE  & LARRY SMITH and SKIPPO!!!!…. Jazz Music every weekend.  903 Duval St…. 6:30 PM..

THE WILLIAM WELCH LEGACY….This wonderful man and amazing artist is no longer with us,  and he is missed more than words can say.  However, his beloved sister, Sherrey Welch , is determined to keep Bill’s art and legacy alive through the new website, at www.williamwelchcollection.com.   Please forward this info to anyone who may be interested in Bill’s work retrieved from Nantucket, Key West and France.  Bill Welch was a true gentleman…. kind, caring and deeply talented…. he was loved and is missed deeply.

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SATURDAY, FEB. 18…. 

HAPPY FEB. 18 BIRTHDAY TO….JODI WEINHOFER…ALEKSANDER PROTOPSALTIS… CALRE KELLER… JOHN SONDEJ… NICK McBRIDE….WALLY CLARK… HENRY CASKEY … NORA GAVIN SMYTH OMIRI… (Please remember….Gary Adkins….Bob Dodaro ….Dottie Schwartz….Jane Vetter.)
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*****’KINKY BOOTS” AT WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE…..RUNS TUES. THRU SAT. UNTIL MARCH 18.  Get tix at www.waterfrontplayhouse.org or call 305-294-5015.

QUILT SHOW…FEB. 18 and 19… The Paradise Quilters Guild will host a show from 10 am to 2 pm, on Saturday and from 10 am to 3 pm on Sunday….at sugarloaf School, 255 Crane Blvd.  More than 100 art quilts will be on display, with raffles, door prizes, vendors, demos, quilt, crafts, supplies and fabrics for sale.  Call Jana at 516-457-5143 for information.

**SOUTH FLORIDA SYMPHONY FEB 18… 7:30 pm at Tennessee Williams theatre….Get 25% off with code 25YEARS.  Get tix at www.keystix.com.  (Brahms, Sibellius & Berlioz)

THE GODDESSES: AN AERIAL JOURNEY…FEB. 25 and 26…. 8 pm at Tennessee Williams Theatre…get tix at www.keystix.com.

TAVERN N TOWN……SAT. FEB. 18 AND 25.,…..it is Larry Smith at the PIANO….from 5-9 pm..

PAUL REISER AT KEY WEST THEATER, FEB. 26 AT 6 PM…. Get tix by goin online to www.thekeywesttheater.com.  

THE GARDENS HOTEL…EVERY SATURDAY ……..From 5 to 7 pm, Bobby Green entertains in the Sun Room at The Gardens.  Always FREE to attend…Great Wine Gallery! 

LITTLE ROOM ON SATURDAYS….. 5:30-7:30 pm…Pianist, Malathi featuring the great Denis Hyland……..8 PM  Great Jazz with that very cool Ericson Holt.   .Always some great music and song at this HOT SPOT!!!!!  821 Duval St. 

58TH OLD ISLAND ART FESTIVAL, FEB. 25 AND 26…. From 10 to 5 pm….FREE to attend… A juried art show filled with amazing works of art, sculpture, jewelry, etc.  Takes place on Whitehead and Caroline Sts. in Old town… A Key West Tradition.

PLANT SALE & EXHIBIT….MARCH 4….AT KW Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden…. 10 to 4 pm….. FREE to attend… 5210 College Rd.  Vendors, children’s events, raffles, etc.

FRIENDS OF KW LIBRARY BOOK SALES…. FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH.. MARCH 4, AND APRIL 1!!!!  Held in the Palm Garden at 700 Fleming from 10 am to 1 pm.   
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY 2023 SPEAKER SERIES ARE HELD ON..FEB. 13 (also gala and fundraiser)…FEB. 20 (joint event with KW Art & Historical Assoc.),,,,FEB, 27… AND …. MARCH 6.  These are wonderful FREE events (not Gala) held at 6 pm in the Palm Garden unless otherwise noted. 
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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19….

HAPPY  FEB. 18 BIRTHDAY TO….KEN SILVERMAN …. DAVE MOORE…SHAWN MONTGOMERY …. ANTHONY PICONE….JOE CLERICO…. MARTHA DOOLEY….
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 2023 AQUA IDOL FOR THE WATERFRONT PLAYHOUSE STARTS TOMORROW FEB. 20 AT 6 PM!!!!   HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

IMPROMPTU CONCERTS ….FEB. 26… AIZURI STRING QUARTET….. MARCH 12…. AMERICAN BRASS …. MARCH 26…. CALEFAX WINDS…  Wonderful afternoon of great music performed at St. Paul’s church at 4 pm.  Tix are $20.in advance at www.keystix.com… or at the door.

‘GIVE EM HELL HARRY’ STARS TRUMAN GRANDSON… FEB. 19 & 20….Actor Clifton Truman Daniel will present this show on the grounds of the Little White House…6 to 8 pm…. For tix and info go to www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.org.  Find out about other events there.

ORCHID SOCIETY MEETING FEB. 18….Arthur Chadwick from Richmond, VA will be on hand at the W. Martello Gardens at Higgs Beach…..ALL welcome…orchids and program…raffle …Go to www.keywestorchidsociety.org for info…

***”STILL WILD ABOUT HARRY” SHOW STARRING the FABULOUS BOBBY NESBITT & CARMEN RODRIGUEZ…AT LITTLE WHITE HOUSE. MARCH 19 & 20 ONLY…..GET TIX NOW…SENDING THIS FOR ALL YOU BOBBY AND CARMEN FANS AND YOU ARE LEGION!!!  Go to the Little White House website for more info.  Doors open at 6:30 pm….show starts at 7:30 pm.  

LITERARY WALKING TOURS…..EVERY SUNDAY…..10 am….. Tour explores info on famous KW authors and writers and their homes…..  Only 6 per group…..  Go online to find out more info.

KEY WEST CEMETERY STROLL, ….Times of departure are 9:30, 9:50. and 10:10 am…. tour takes 90 minutes.  Wear comfy shoes and plan to walk nearly a mile on uneven ground.  Bottled water provided.  Reservations a must….Call or text 305-304-1453 or email hfkf@bellsouth.net.

SUNDAYS AT MANGOES…. 8:30 PM…. It’s the fabulous WOLF LOVE BAND with adorbs married duo, Kari (Daily) and Jack Wolf…they make beautiful music together

JAZZ IN THE GARDENS ……. 5 TO 7:30 PM…. It’s Scott Marischen, jazz harpist, and Friends!

VIVA SALOON ON SUNDAYS…. ….It’s the wonderful Marjorie Lee Mitchell… 6 to 9 pm. 

THE FRINGE BACKYARD MUSIC EVENT….FEB. 19 …6 pm… at the  Home and Yard of Kitty & Tom Clements on Fleming St….. Singer musician Abbie Gardner will perform…. food and drink all to benefit The Fringe.  Get tix at www.thefringetheater.org.  

ARTISAN MARKET ON SUNDAYS…. FEB. 26….  Held at Indigenous Park from 10 am to 2 pm… at Higgs Beach…. Mark calendars for these other dates …MARCH 5, 12, 19, 26…APRIL 2,9,16,23….

LITTLE ROOM JAZZ CLUB….. EVERY SUNDAY…….5:30-7:30 PM, It is Paul Warthen at the piano……..8 pm……Larry Smith and a Company of fab musicians and singers Jam for your great pleasure!!!!!  821 Duval St…..Great way to begin or to cap off an evening.  WE LOVE THE LITTLE ROOM!!!!!

TAVERN N TOWN ..FEB. 19 AND 26….It’s Rob DiStasi in the Lounge ,from 5 to 9 pm…..

**PARADISE BIG BAND CONCERT, MARCH 26…. Get tix NOW at www.keystix.com.  This is a do not miss… The wonderful Joe Dallas runs this group of local dedicated musicians and singers of all ages…. He works his magic every year in January and March ( 26)…  We never miss!  Always some fabulous guest singers.   Tix are only $25-$35.   

**LIBBY YORK AT GARDENS HOTEL, FEB.26.. 5 to 7:30 pm…. This luscious chanteuse will be releasing her new CD too…. Note other date she will be there  March 26.  

KEY WEST WILDLIFE CENTER FUNDRAISER, FEB. 26….Theme is “It’s for the Birds”….AT West Martello Tower at 1100 Atlantic Blvd…. 3 to 5:30 pm…..Tix $40 online or $45 at the door.  Go to https://www.keywestwildlifecenter.org/its-for-the-birds-annual-benefit-event/. 

MANGOES DRUNKEN DRAG BRUNCH….SUNDAYS….. Go to Mangoes Facebook Page or google to find out details, like dates, ticket cost, and times.  Sounds like a fun way to spend a Sunday afternoon in Key West!!!  This is not every week, so call Mangoes or go online to find out when, etc.

THE FRINGE THEATER IS LOOKING FOR A FEW GOOD HANDS…. The Fringe needs stage hands, run crew stage managers, and board members.  If you are interested email your info and areas of interest and expertise to info@fringetheater.org.  Some work is volunteer and some is paid.  The Fringe can be flexible… you can work show by show.

CHECK OUT THE WEBSITES OF THE VARIOUS CLUBS IN TOWN TO FIND OUT THEIR MUSIC SCHEDULES….. JUST GOOGLE OR CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULES PROVIDED BY THE KEY WEST CITIZEN AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS. 

PLEASE SEND ME ANYTHING YOU NEED TO BE PROMOTED….. AND … I will do my best to include in future blogs!  
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LOVE TO YOU, AND REMEMBER…..To be nobody but yourself in a world that’s doing its best to make you somebody else… is to fight the hardest battle you are ever going to fight.  Never stop fighting….Never.
Lynda
PS   Because of ‘the way the world is now’ various singers and entertainers sometimes are not at the venue they are scheduled to be at.  Do check with the club to make sure the person you want to see is there before going.  Things change.
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PS…..AND HERE’S MORE INFORMATION:  

THE IMPROMPTU CONCERTS… For more info go to www.keywestimpromptu.org. 

WOMAN’S CLUB RESTAURANT & THEATER TOUR CARD BEING SOLD….$100…. and effective till Sept. 30…. Call Susan Mitchell at 740-274-9091 or go to the Woman’s Club Facebook page.  

TROPIC CINEMA SEEKS VOLUNTEERS…..For info call John at 305-295-9493 or go to www.tropiccinema.com.  Training is provided.  ‘Payment’ is free movie passes and popcorn for each shift worked.  

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR REEF RELIEF….For info call 305-294-3100. 

STAR OF THE SEA OUTREACH MISSION NEEDS VOLUNTEERS….To help with the food pantry on Stock Island….This mission serves hundreds of the community’s needy operating Mon-Fri.  Call Donna at 305-407-5967 for info.

SHAL SEEKS VOLUNTEERS…Southernmost Homeless Assistance League has begun serving an evening meal each day at the homeless shelter with food from the Soup Kitchen….Volunteers are needed to help.  For info call John Miller at 502-876-5092.

TENNESSEE WILLIAMS EXHIBIT:…. .513 Truman Ave.   This wonderful Museum is under the auspices of the Key West Art & Historical Society with founder, Dennis Beaver as its curator….Visitors and Locals are invited to tour this preserved and showcased collection of historic, archival objects that promote the importance of Williams’s legacy and offers the largest collection of his memorabilia and artifacts available to the public.   Open daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm…. Admission: Adults $7. … Children under 6 Free…. KWAHS Members: Free… For more info call 305-204-4527. Big Thanks to Dennis Beaver and Bert Whitt for their great efforts to make this Museum world class!

KW TROPICAL FOREST & BOTANIC GARDEN, NEEDS VOLUNTEERS….To volunteer please call 305-296-1504.  

NEW ADDRESS FOR LA RUBIA KEY WEST….…OPEN…..Stephanie Hellstrom (THE Blonde!) is the owner of this  delightful shop…NOW AT 1121 DUVAL ST., right near LATEDA.  You can purchase hand woven Panama hats, handcrafted wearable accessories, and organic chocolates from Ecuador…. along with handbags, scarves, bamboo wraps, jewelry and more.   

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN ORG. SEEKS VOLUNTEERS…..This marvelous, award winning scholarship program mentoring group is looking for giving souls to help mentor 50 some qualified students from lower income families ….They cannot be admitted unless a volunteer steps forward.  It takes less than an hour each week.  Call Chuck Licis, program coordinator at 305-394-7974 or e-mail him at chuck.licis@keysschools.com.

CUSTOM HOUSE & LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUMS ARE SEEKING VOLUNTEERS…If you have a few hours to offer as a docent, archives asst., exhibit builder, or event volunteer, please offer your services!