“Fantasies” come true!
Transcription
“Fantasies” come true!
2 index the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals DIRECTOR’S WELCOME Welcome to our Straw Vote Campaign! K ey West streets are now full of Lame Ducks and Hanging Chads doing their twisted civic duties for this year’s Fantasy Fest theme — Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals. Fantasy Fest is the product of the southernmost city’s citizens and merchants and their neighbors in the Florida Keys. It is made possible through our community of generous sponsors. The costs involved in a festival of this scope would make an old-fashioned party boss choke on his cigar. The businesses that commit to support the bottom line for this 10 days of fun underwrite Fantasy Fest’s success. Many of our major sponsors Linda O’Brien return for another year of Fantasy Phenomena. Captain Morgan “Most Comfortable Toe Rings in the World!” Wear inside your shoes year-round! @Caroline’s Restaurant, across from the Hard Rock Cafe on Duval. 305057FF Free Demonstration Come Feel For Yourself! 832-723-8185 • www.purrfit.com Calling all Pirates, Revelers and Party Animals You need to eat to keep up your strength so come see your local fishermen on the Corner of Duval and Southard St. Friday’s Street Fair − Oct. 24th from noon to 10;00 pm The Fl. Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Assoc. will serve “fresh” cold Stone Crab, Shrimp & Conch Salad 304653 FF is back as title sponsor for the parade, and Fairvilla MegaStore heads up the Masquerade March once again. Bud Light is the official Fantasy Fest beer; Coca Cola is once again the official festival cola; Big Pecker is the official wine; Sex Drive is the official energy drink, Powerade is the official sports drink, and Dasani is the official water. We couldn’t get the word out about our zany antics without The Key West Citizen, Floridakeys.com, Comcast, Vox Communications and The Florida Keys & Key West. Abundant funding also comes from the Monroe County Tourist Development Council under the auspices of the Monroe County Board of Commissioners. Many local businesses chip in to support Fantasy Fest and we hope you will visit where you see our Official Fantasy Fest Sponsor posters. Our events this year include the all-time favorites: the WKEY Pet Masquerade and Parade at the Casa Marina Resort, Pretenders in Paradise costume competition at the Pier House Resort, The Sloppy Joe’s Toga Party, and a long list of others from Friday, Oct. 17 to Children’s Day and The Fat Lady Sings Tea Dance on Sunday, Oct. 26. The fun is more fun when you are in costume. Merchants in our community have stocked lots of donkey ears, elephant trunks and sequined pirate bustiers, so indulge your imagination. Once you are transformed, consider the competitions throughout the week. They run the gamut from informal to professional. I hear that the view from the stage is spectacular. Many of our events, as well as sales from some of our street fair booths, benefit local charities. The camSee WELCOME, page 3 COSTUME CONTESTS Hot Wench & Wicked Pirate Tea Dance ....... 10 Headdress Ball....................................... 10 Celebrity Look-Alike Contest ....................... 13 Pretenders in Paradise ........................... 16 Sloppy Joe’s Toga Party .............................. 16 March Mania Party................................. 19 Rum Barrel Pirate Bash.............................. 22 6...............................................Indecent Exposure 10 .......................................... Dungeon and Dragons 11.....................Big ’Uns Pirate Wench in Paradise 13 ........................................................ Club Zu Party 14.......... Homemade Bikini Contest & Beach Party 15 ........Dante’s Halos and Horns Wet T-shirt Contest 15................................... Git R Wet T-shirt Contest 15 ........................................Pajama & Lingerie Party 19.....................................Living Art Airbrush Expo 22 ................................................Pimp and Ho Party 28......... Epidermal Arts & Torso Tapestries Contest STREET FAIRS, PARADES & MAPS The Fantasy Zone ...................6 Goombay Festival ................8 Duval Street Fair ..................17 Masquerade March ...........18 Duval Promenade ................23 Fantasy Fest Parade ..........24 8 .................................................Royal Coronation Ball 11............................................ Poster Signing Event 12 ................................... Finnegan’s Wake Green Party 12.......................................................Party in Plaid 12 .................................... Fantasy Façade Competition 13..........................WKEY Pet Masquerade & Parade 13 .............................................................. Booty Party 14.......................Cheeseburger’s Wild & Kinky Lu’au 14 ................................................................ Red Night 15..................................................... Monster’s Ball 17 ............ Gallerie du val’s Dream Team of the Art World 19.....................................................’70s Kiss Party 22 ........................................................ 801 Tea Dance 23........Wyland Galleries Fantasy of Art Extravaganza 28 ..................................................Bourbon Tea Dance 28.............................................Half Way Home BBQ 29 .............................................. Big Pecker Wine Party 29......................................................Children’s Day 29 .............................. Grog & Frog Brunch at the Hyatt 30.....................................Fat Lady Sings Tea Dance GENERAL INFORMATION ADULTS ONLY THEMED PARTIES What is FF? Who is FF? FF online! ..................... 4 Parking ......................................................... 4 First Aid Stations................................................ 4 Shuttles and Buses ....................................... 5 Rules and Regulations ....................................... 5 Fantasy Zone Information .............................. 6 Port-o-lets .......................................................... 6 Official Fantasy Fest Memorabilia .................. 7 Parade Viewing ................................................ 25 Parade Wheelchair Access ........................... 25 Parade Ambassadors & Barricades .................. 25 Street Closures ........................................... 28 Fantasy Fest 2008 is a Cooke Communications publication. Special thanks to Ashley Hoover of the Market Share Company John Kent Cooke Jr. Publisher Tom Tuell Editor Sara Matthis Special Sections Editor Linda Benson Pre-press Design Randy Erickson Vice President of Advertising Operations Susan Kochan Vice President of Advertising Sales the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 3 FANTASY FEST STAFF Welcome 305-294-4200 • 305-849-7980 304950FF Searching for that perfect home or business? Let Diane help you find it quickly & efficiently. Diane Paglia 301531FF our home your home during the next 10 days. Please Continued from page 2 treat our hometown as you paigns for King and Queen of would your own. And please remember, our local citizens Fantasy Fest raise record revhave sensitivities, just as enues for the Key West AIDS your neighbors at home do. Help organization. So while So please, no nudity and no you are enjoying yourself, displays of body parts that know that it also generously need to remain private — you helps caring groups on our island, making Fantasy Fest a know the parts I mean! We have world-class body paintparty with heart and soul. ing artists working here, but if Of course it is teams of you indulge, please make sure people that actually produce the application is out of public this madness and the staff at view. We are the only city in the Fantasy Fest office is an the world with an ordinance imaginative and enthusiastic stating specifically that paint crew that shepherds herds of is not considered clothing; so roaming partygoers. make sure appropriate areas In addition to our staff, we are covered with a bathing suit rely on an enormous throng or cloak of invisibility. of good-natured and enthuThe political party animals and bold buccaneers that make up this creative caucus; otherwise known In closing, let me again siastic volunteers to help us as the staff of Fantasy Fest 2008, gather for their notorious photo op. Campaigning and crusading welcome you and invite you get the culminating parade from behind the scenes, these rebel republicans and decadent democrats step out of the office and through the costumed crowds. to enjoy the many fine restauinto their costumes (provided by Fairvilla Megastore) to show that they, too, love a good party! rants, bars and merchants on You will see these Madness The people who make these 10 days of tantalizing temptation happen for you: Front row seated our island home. Please party Ambassadors on the parade (from left): Sassy Sea Fox Sandy Guy, bookkeeper; Cigar Puffin’ Pundit Donna Brown, street fair responsibly and play nicely — route on the final Saturday coordinator; Peculiar Politico Palin Reen Stanhouse, assistant parade coordinator; Stars, Stripes be polite, have patience and of our 10-day festival. Thank and Spikes Gordan Ross, entertainment coordinator; Salutin’ Sailor Seductress Mimi McDonald, maintain your sense of humor them for their sober service masquerade march and façade coordinator. Standing (from left): Devilish Demagogue Jeff Smead, while exploring the creative and follow their directions account coordinator; Free Bootin’ Beauty Betsy Dietz, office coordinator; Queen Whimsical Wench when they direct your section events we offer here. Linda O’Brien, executive director; Campaigning Cutie Ashley Hoover, assistant director; Flamboyant Get ready for a wild and of the crowd to move back to Founding Father Judi Bradford, parade coordinator. allow the broad girth of giddi- witty time and come back to visit again. ness to pass. For up-to-date — Linda O’Brien, We can’t forget the city info about Fantasy Fest, executive director and county officials who visit www.floridakeys.com. work extremely hard to keep order in the chaos during this festival. We are blessed with spectators who are mostly easy-going jesters and jousters just out for a reasonable good time and we love that about Fantasy Fest. Unfortunately emergencies happen, and when they do, we appreciate having fire, enforcement and 305051 public works personnel who have years of experience with our festival and can handle whatever comes up. These professionals are dedicated to your safety and well being while visiting our island. They put in lots of planning ahead of time and lots of extra hours during this week. Let them know you appreciate them. Century 21 All Keys, Inc We do ask that you abide by Broker/Associate dianepaglia@msn.com the party rules and regulations you’ll find in this guide. We are very proud of our island city and invite you to make 4 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals GENERAL INFORMATION First aid stations occurrence to keep traffic and festival activities moving smoothly. If your vehicle should be towed, go to the Police Department at the corner of Angela and Simonton streets. Parking tickets may also be paid at the Police Department or mailed as indicated. • Plan your exit route carefully to avoid being blocked by Parade activities or heavy congestion. • Be watchful of emergency vehicles attempting to access the very crowded side streets. Key West Rescue personnel will provide first aid treatment at several locations during the Festival on Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25. Rescue trucks will be stationed on Front, Caroline, Eaton, Southard streets and Truman Avenue between Simonton and Duval streets. Parking The city suggests festival goers find parking at one of the following locations. Rates are for Friday, Oct. 24 beginning at 8 a.m. through Sunday, Oct. 26 ending at noon. Key West High School only offers parking on Saturday, Oct. 25 beginning at 9 a.m. • Old Town Garage (Park N’ Ride), at the corner of Grinnell and Caroline streets, $3 per hour or $20 per day. • Mallory Square, near the intersection of Duval and Front streets, $4 per hour or $32 per day. TERRI BRENTNALL/The Citizen Don’t let the crazy sights and sounds of Fantasy FEst lead you astray. Park nicely, walk carefully and drink responsibly. • Key West Bight, at the corner for the 24-hour period. A shuttle • Be courteous and do not of Caroline and Williams streets, will transport festival goers from block private driveways, entranc$3.50 per hour or $25 per day the high school to downtown es, etc. • Oversized vehicles will from noon to midnight. The shut• Watch carefully for “No be directed to Key West High tle fee is $5 per person. Parking,” including “Resident School, 2100 Flagler Ave., $30 only,” areas. As the festival proParking Etiquette for RVs, $25 for buses and $10 gresses, there will additional If you are willing and able for all other vehicles. This parking areas blocked off. lot is open only on Saturday, Oct. to find in-town parking, please • Parking restrictions are 25 beginning at 9 a.m. Rates are remember: enforced. Towing is a frequent Get Your Square Grouper Fix! OPEN Fantasy Fest SUNDAY October 26th,11am - 10pm Come by Sunday for Lunch or Dinner Full Menu • Great Specials SQUARE GROUPER STEW SERVED ALL DAY Tuesday - Saturday Lunch 11am-2:30pm • Dinner 5pm-10pm MM 22.5 • Cudjoe Key 305-745-8880 288555 Pedestrians Use caution at all times while traveling in the downtown area during the Annual Street Fair, the Fairvilla Megastore Masquerade March and during the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade, even if you are walking. The congestion is extreme but jolly. And, be sure to have a marvelously moving time! — Contributed what is it? who is it? is it online? Key West celebrates the 29th year of Fantasy Fest and you’re invited to escape from the drab world of day-to-day duties into the world of gleeful joy shared by more than 70,000 masquerading merrymakers. Fantasy Fest is a spectacular 10-day festival this year with 41 outrageous events drawing thousands upon thousands to the Florida Keys’ “nothing but normal” paradise. In addition to the extravagant and extraordinary creativity of the ultimate costume, mask and float designers, visitors enjoy the excellent weather, fine restaurants and resorts, rich and varied history, water sports and entertainment. Fantasy Fest has evolved from the Key West lifestyle known for good-natured tolerance, offbeat humor and unique personality. Welcome to our historically zany Southernmost land of treasures. Fantasy Fest Board of Directors, Key West Tourist Development Association Bill Murphy, President Joe Mather, Vice President Joy Smatt, Treasurer Joe Liszka, Secretary Members Tony Falcone, Bob Grossman, Jeffrey Harwell, Linda O’Brien, Steve Robbins, Frank Romano and Charles Young Contact information: 1111 Twelfth Street, Suite 211 Key West, FL 33040 Phone 305-296-1817 Fax 305-294-3335 Web www.fantasyfest.net E-mail kwfanfest@aol.com Check out www.fantasyfest. net for all things Fantasy Fest! Floridakeys.com once again returns as a fabulously fantastical Silver Sponsor of this year’s festival and feverishly furnishes a delightful and dazzling Web site, which captures all the excitement of “Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals”. “Floridakeys.com and their web masters continuously provide frequent updates to our site so that partygoers have the most current information,” said Linda O’Brien, festival director. The flashy Web site features an extensive photo gallery, a complete schedule of events and links to our generous sponsor sites who make Fantasy Fest possible. Floridakeys.com operates a live Web cam during many festival events including the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade. the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 5 TRANSPORTATION Public transportation is your good friend Bus transportation The Key West City transportation department has a few notes on transportation as it regards Fantasy Fest: • Expect increased traffic that will cause delays to the regular bus schedule. • The Lower Keys Shuttle Service that runs between Marathon and Key West will not be affected by Fantasy Fest events with the exception of delays due to traffic. • Beginning at noon on Friday, Oct. 24, buses will not service stops west of Simonton Street due to road closures. Regular service will resume on Sunday, Oct. 26. • On Saturday, Oct. 25, regular bus service will operate until 5 p.m., at which time all city bus services will discontinue and convert to free shuttle routes servicing Fantasy Fest. • Information will be available at www.keywestcity.com. Shuttles The city of Key West Department of Transportation has teamed up with Captain Morgan to provide Captain Morgan Safe Ride free bus shuttles as an alternate mode of transportation for Fantasy Fest 2008. • Captain Morgan will sponsor shuttle buses traveling from Marathon to Key West, making numerous stops in the Lower Keys. Continuous service starts at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 26 at 2 a.m. • Buses will be clearly marked as Captain Morgan Safe Ride shuttles and will allow partygoers to enjoy festivities without having to worry about parking, traffic or driving alternatives. • Anyone using this service must depart the festivities well before 2 a.m. to allow for travel time to their final destination. The downtown bus stop will be at Fausto’s, located at the intersection of Fleming and Bahama streets. — Contributed RULES & REGULATIONS Assume the party’s positions The Key West Tourist Development Association and the Key West Police Department welcome you to Florida’s premier masking and costuming celebration and encourage you to participate in all the many exciting events of “Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals.” Applying order to the chaos by following a few simple rules can make Fantasy Fest 2008 a safe and pleasant adventure. Below, the City of Key West Police Department summarizes below the rules and laws you need to abide by. • No glass containers are allowed in the designated “Fantasy Zone.” Drink from paper or plastic cups provided by bars and vendors. • Open containers of alcohol are not allowed outside the Fantasy Zone. Please stay inside the party area while you are carrying open alcoholic beverages. For your convenience, trash cans and recycling receptacles are located along the boundary of the Fantasy Zone. Toss your cups as you leave the area. • Nudity is illegal. Our city code specifies that body paint does not constitute clothing. What’s wrong with this picture? Number one, these guys don’t look like they are having fun anymore. Two, they are drinking of out glass containers on the sreet which is not allowed. Friday & Saturday October 17 & 18 10PM Retro Cuban Latin Funk - Latin Grammy Nominee Tues., Wed., Thurs., October 21, 22, & 23 10PM Plus 5:30 Soundcheck Wednesday & Thursday Thursday October 23 10PM Saturday October 25 3PM FILE PHOTO Nudity is not allowed on public property or in public view. Please wear a cover-up to avoid exposure on city streets. • Body painting must be done in enclosed or screened areas, out of public view. Fulfill your Fantasy Food Feast at • No backpacks, coolers, packages, water guns, weapons or replica weapons will be allowed. Please be courteous and patient with enforcement officers and with each other. Next to the Green Parrot Key West’s King of Soul Robert Albury Plus 5:30 Soundcheck Friday Friday October 31 10PM ENU FULL M AM ‘TIL 3 DAY E V E RY R! RRRRR g g h t W i nand More… i R , g n L e f t W i AT W i n g s ! All Bipartisan! GRE Friday & Saturday October 24 & 25 10PM 36th with (We Think) Lo Nig cals ht Ho to wl the Sauce Boss Bill Wharton 304959 FF 404 Southard Street • 294-5602 304936 FF 6 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Sipping and strolling in the Fantasy Zone Enter the Fantasy zone On Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25, portions of Duval Street and adjoining side streets will be designated as a Fantasy Zone. The Fantasy Fest staff would like to make sure you strictly heed the city’s open container law within the Zone, which is … a container must be open in order to drink from it! The city aims to please and HURRICANE HOLE will temporarily suspend the open container law within the zone on these two days only. From noon to midnight revelers can stroll, march, dance or prance while sipping libations along Duval Street from Front to South streets, and intersecting cross streets to Simonton and Whitehead streets. Open bottles and cans are not allowed. Please drink from Waterfront Bar & Grill FREE DRAFT OR GLASS OF WINE W/COUPON 305058 FF 288556 New Items Arriving . . . Daily! “Upscale used Men’s & Women’s clothing” Everything Old is New Again! • High Quality Merchandise • Reasonable Prices • Economical • Ecological • All Proceeds Benefit Habitat for Humanity We Make Donating easy! Just Call 872-2883 and We’ll Come Pick it Up! Conveniently Located Showroom US-1 on Big Pine Key Open Tuesday thru Saturday Port-o-lets spell relief Port-o-lets are just about everywhere you may need to go during the Street Fair, Duval Street Promenade and Captain Morgan Parade. Waste Management, Key West’s refuse and recycling arranger and a sponsor of this year’s week of merrymaking, are providing safe and clean relief stations bordering the Duval Street festival activities. Look for directional arrows on Duval Street pointing toward the port-o-let locations on the cross streets. Remember, relief is just around the corner. No drinking for minors All festival attendees must be born on or before Oct. 24, 1987 to purchase or consume alcohol at the Street Fair liquor booths. Any person that purchases alcohol for a minor will be cited and arrested. —Contributed Get painted at Garden of Eden Fresh Seafood • Live Music • Daily Specials • Charters • Watersports • Marina 5130 Overseas Hwy MM4 – (305) 294-8025 the paper and plastic cups provided by bars and vendors. Of course, in thanks to our thoughtful city staff for the Zone, all festival-goers will properly dispose of drink containers in the many trash cans as they leave the Fantasy Zone. The art of body painting flourishes at the Garden of Eden rooftop bar during the 10 days of Fantasy Fest. Artists work in shifts transforming bare shoulders into bouquets of daisies and full bodies into works of arts. Tioti, a Garden of Eden employee and an artist, organizes the event at the clothingoptional bar. “Not everyone gets painted so they can walk around town,” he said. “Generally, they want to get painted, take a few photographs and just hang out in the bar.” A standard torso job costs about $125. But prices rise and availability shrinks as the week goes on. “I really can’t stress enough that people should make appointments,” he said. “We paired our staff down and we only have the best body painters working for us.” Tioti is considered to be one of the best body painters in Key West. He works with a talented team including Carey and Jay. Heather makes all the appointments. Tioti said his favorite compliment is when admirers don’t even realize a model is wearing body paint — they think it’s a costume. “Last year we did a lot of lingerie painting,” he said. “I was extremely happy about that because it’s one of my favorite things to paint. We’re getting better and better at it.” One of his favorites from years See PAINTING, page 9 INDECENT EXPOSURE • Oct. 17 to Oct. 25, varying hours Garden of Eden Rooftop Bar • Corner of Caroline and Duval streets • $$ the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 7 FOR SALE Vintage Fest Take a break from the political fantasy forums and log onto the Internet. Go to www.fantasyfest.net and visit the Fantasy Fest Store for cool collectible posters from this year or others dating back to 1996. Complete your personal collection of festival memorabilia or send souvenir gifts to those unfortunate party poopers who couldn’t make it down this year. T-shirts from 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005 are available from Keyboard Advertising (305292-9315 or www.tomsawyeradvertisingkeywest.com.) All inquiries regarding vintage shirts (earlier than 2005) should be directed to 305-296-1817. Beads by the Dozen Attention all merrymaking masqueraders, get your limited edition 2008 Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animal collector beads! Beads by the Dozen gleefully returns as the Official Fantasy Fest Bead Sponsor. The limited edition Fantasy Fest Collectors beads will be available for purchase from local retailers and a lucky few will catch those thrown by generous float riders showering gifts amongst the crowd. Beads by the Dozen is thrilled to continue the “Colors of Fantasy Fest” licensed line of merchandise featuring Mardi Gras-style beaded necklaces and a line of other items with the Fantasy Fest logo and theme. “People call us in New Orleans throughout the year asking for beads in the Fantasy Fest colors,” said Kelley B. Dodd, sales and marketing director for Beads by the Dozen. “In partnership with the Fantasy Fest organizers, we introduced the colors purple, pink and turquoise as the official colors of Fantasy Fest. This combination of colors, besides looking fabulous together, has been used by Fantasy Fest organizers for some time. Borrowing from New Orleans Mardi Gras tradition, we decided to make the colors uniquely Key West’s by assigning a meaning to each color — purple for passion, pink for diversity and turquoise for the sea.” This year’s collectible necklaces feature an elephant and two donkeys in flagrante delicto, plus a pirate and a politician fighting for supremacy. Beads by the Dozen encourages all revelers to display their Fantasy Fest flags and colors to enrich and add that special touch to the festivities that are solely Fantasy Fest and Key West. The official Fantasy Fest flag features horizontal stripes of purple, pink and turquoise with the Fantasy Fest logo in white. reminders of the foolery and merrymaking involved with the festivities. You will find them at many locations on the island. Festival goers have a chance to meet and greet Rick Worth at the Fantasy Fest Poster Signing Party at the Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 5 p.m. Hard Rock Pin T-shirts and Posters Before you head back home to reality, make sure you grab a memento of your intoxicating experience at Fantasy Fest 2008. Be sure to possess a “Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals” collectible poster or T-shirt featuring artwork by local artist, Rick Worth. These imaginative and artfully designed creations make great gifts or personal Make sure to visit Hard Rock Cafe and get your official Fantasy Fest pin. This year the pin features a seductive “Pirate” standing over the famous Hard Rock Cafe logo. This limited edition pin retails for $12 and is a unique piece of memorabilia to take back to the mainland. Hard Rock Cafe also offers prime seating for the Fantasy Fest Parade. Call 305-293-0230 for reservations. 304652FF 8 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals King and Queen crowned are at Coronation Ball This year’s Royal Coronation Ball is going to start out with a bang. Really. Imagine a production number featuring a life-size pirate ship made by local artist Rick Wroth, the Bone Island Buccaneer pirate re-enactors plus the Keys very own Leigha Fox and … cannon fire. “I don’t want to give out too much information, because we want to maintain the element of surprise,” said entertainment director L.A. Meyers, a.k.a. LaLa Belle . The Royal Coronation Ball is, of course, the crowning moment of the five candidates campaign to be elected Queen or King of Fantasy Fest. In order to win, the candidates must have raised the most cold, hard cash for a wonderful cause. AIDS Help is a countywide agency devoted to helping those that suffer from the disease. It is the charity’s biggest fund raiser all year. “I am continually surprised by the generosity of the community,” said AIDS Help’s Pam DeMala. “Last year we raised more than $200,000.” Diana Dodson, Mitch “Misswww.manhunt.net” Jones, Susan Maurer, Kate Miano, Surrey Westrupp, Capt. Timothy Brown, Ricky “Action” Jackson and Dave Taylor have undertaken the arduous, yet fun, challenge in 2008. The campaigning comes to an end on Friday, Oct. 17 at the Ball. The street will be closed to vehicular traffic and the stage and set erected across the street from La Te Da, the event host. There is a $5 admission cost that entitles partygoers to cast one vote for a candidate. Additional votes can be purchased. A last-minute rush at the ballot box can tip the scales in favor of your “A Physician to You - Anytime, Anywhere” • Treatment for minor illness & minor injuries • 24/7 FAST response anywhere - at the home, office, hotel or even boat! Personal, Professional & Prompt Treatment 304947FF • Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and Family Practice • Local Knowledge - 2½ years with Lower Keys Med. Center • Licensed since 1989 - over 19 years combined service! • Experienced - 18 years in Emergency Medicine 305-890-6425 BOGO’s Dr. Matt Reid Pick Up or Delivery 11am - 2am Key West, Stock Island, Key Haven ✷ Dinners ✷ ✷ Pizzas ✷ ✷ Subs ✷ ✷ Salads ✷ 293-3005 934 Truman Ave. Key West 305055FF flying in just for the occasion and of course we’re going to have 2007’s Queen Mary Lou Hoover and King Chris Lippa plus other favorites like Frank Cicalese and Miss D.” Meyers said Worth’s set (constructed with the help of Nick Murphy’s MLS Construction) will be dismantled as the night goes on and sold to the highest bidder. “Last year we raised $4,000 from the set pieces alone,” he said, “and he’s outdone himself this year.” Contributed Organizers are hoping for a 2007 King of Fantasy Fest Chris Lippa is sitting on top of the World large crowd with deep pockat Coronation. ets. “Each year the King and ROYAL CORONATION BALL • Friday, Oct. 17 at 6 p.m. Queen campaigns become La Te Da • 1125 Duval St. • $5/$25/$50 more and more important to our agency due to reduced position. preferred candidate before government funding,” DeMala Many former Fantasy Fest the ballot boxes are sealed Kings and Queen will take the said. at 8 p.m. Partygoers can do By 8 p.m. the voting stops more for the cause by spend- stage throughout the evening. “Don’t you think you should and the vote-counters get ing $50 for priority seating to work. The winners will be which includes a deluxe gour- have the royal family at the announced on stage soon met hors d’oeuvres platter or coronation? We’re going to after. reserved seating for $25. There have as many past Kings To reserve a seat, call AIDS will be cash bars and food for and Queens and Dukes and Help at 305-296-6196. purchase for those who want Duchesses perform as pos— Citizen Staff to partake while jockeying for sible,” Meyers said. “Red is Goombay Fest kicks off the fun It seems like everyone celebrates the beginning of Fantasy Fest by attending the Goombay Festival in Bahama Village, nestled on the edge of Key West’s historic district. People mingle to chat and laugh, watch the constant performances on the stage and witness the colorful parade spectacle. The action starts at noon on Friday, Oct. 17. The vendors — selling scrumptious FILE PHOTO conch concoctions and The food is certainly one of the draws of Goombay, but the event arts and crafts wares — will also features top-notch entertainers performing on street stages. already be in place. That evening, at 9 p.m,, Robert Albury GOOMBAY FESTIVAL STREET FAIR • Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17-18 takes the stage. His blend of See GOOMBAY, page 9 noon to midnight • Bahama Village (Petronia Street) • Free the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Goombay over to Duval Street, and then enters Bahama Village Continued from page 8 through the arch at Petronia Motown hits and soulful R&B Street. Everyone is invited to fall in behind the parade and is a huge pleasure for those accompany the Junkanoos to lucky enough to have heard the Goombay Festival. The him play before. troupes march straight down On Saturday, Oct. 18, the Petronia Street, parting the entertainment ranges from crowd with their energetic kids on steel drums to a routines and colorful cosJunkanoo parade. tumes. “This year the focus is At 9 p.m., Soca Man Cliff more on local, homegrown and the Wyle-Fyah (protalent,” said organizer Ken nounced “wild fire”) take the Sullivan. “We’ll have performances by the The Steel Your stage. The band is back by popular demand for the fifth Heart Band and Bahama year, playing a blend of island Village Band. “It’s a great opportunity for them to show music designed to get the crowd dancing in the street. their talent to the commu“It’s really great music,” nity.” Sullivan said. “But the really Keys kids will perform on great thing about Goombay the stage in Bahama Village is that it is a family event. starting at about 2 p.m. At 6 p.m., festivalgoers will You come out and see people be treated to the spectacle of you haven’t seen in years. It’s a “Junkanoo Rush.” It starts in a chance to meet and greet front of the Coral Elks Lodge other locals.” — Citizen Staff on Whitehead Street, heads 305-294-4174 Live Nude Adult Entertainment One on One Private Rooms Also Available-Escorts 24/7 www.theadultclub.biz www.adultkeywest.biz Painting Continued from page 6 past was an Egyptian princess and prince done in gold leaf. It took top honors at a local competition. Both watchers and canvases are welcome at the Garden of Eden, located on the third floor above The Bull and Whistle on Duval Street. Tioti and his team will be painting from about 4 p.m. until closing during Fantasy Fest. On the final days of Fantasy Fest — Thursday, Oct. 23 through Saturday, Oct. 25 — the artists will come in earlier and stay later. For an appointment, drop by the Garden of Eden, visit www. tiotibodypainting.com or call FILE PHOTO 305-393-1956. Most body-painting jobs require — Citizen Staff an appointment. “Make Your Fantasy come True” The terms and logos “Fantasy Fest” and “Fantasy Festival” and the slogan “Pirates, Pundits and Political P arty Animals” are the sole properties of Key West Tourist and Development Association, Inc. and are protected by law. Anyone using the logo or the terms mentioned without written consent from Key West Tourist and Development Association, Inc. will be prosecuted to the full e xtent of the law. 304608 Actual Current Model & Escort Carmella Always online: Your hometown news — www.keysnews.com 9 10 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Wear your pirate gear to this tea dance There’s probably no better setting for a pirate-themed tea dance than on the front terrace of the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. That’s where the Hot Wench and Wicked Pirate Tea Dance takes place on Sunday, Oct. 19 starting at 4 p.m. “We’re going to have a costume contest with four categories,” said an organizer, “Best Pirate, Best Wench, Best Couple and Queen Anne’s Revenge which is the category for best drag queen.” DJ Flip Ferrari will be spinning the tunes and food and drink will be available for purchase. — Citizen Staff HOT WENCH AND WICKED PIRATE TEA DANCE Sunday, Oct. 19 at 4 p.m. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, 200 Greene St. Free admission The 801 Bourbon Bar always puts on a good show for the annual Dungeons & Dragons exhibition. FILE PHOTO A show like no other Alternatively described as a fantasy zone or an adventure, this peep show is certainly erotic in nature. The Bourbon Complex continues the popular Dungeons and Dragons tradition. This year, Key West’s own Sushi is in charge. “It’s going to be different,” said organizer Joey Schroeder of the Bourbon Street Pub Complex. “Although it will still be safe adult fun, we’re going to have a set and the whole atmosphere will be a lot more playful.” Dungeon and Dragons is staged at the 801 Bourbon Bar at 801 Duval St. on Monday, Oct. 20. It starts at about 9 p.m. and there is a cover charge. Only adults will be admitted and no cameras are allowed. — Citizen Staff DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Monday, Oct. 20 at 9 p.m. 801 Bourbon Bar 801 Duval St. Cover charge $ 304704FF TERRI BRENTNALL/ The Citizen 26TH ANNUAL HEADDRESS BALL • Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 9 p.m. Southernmost Hotel, Corner of Duval and South streets Cover $40/$270/$320 The Headdress Ball celebrates 26 years The 26th annual Headdress Ball on Tuesday, Oct. 21, is one of the biggest costume contests of Fantasy Fest and is also considered to be the premier gay event of the 10-day festival. Normally, it attracts between 25 and 30 contestants. This year, when the doors open at 7 p.m. at the Southernmost Hotel, there’s room and time for more. While some of the costumes are full-body ensembles, the judges only award points from the neck up. Feathers, fabric, mechanized moving parts and lights are established elements of the headdress. “This year’s theme is Raucous Caucus,” said event organizer Peter Arnow. And while it’s anybody’s guess what type of costumes that idea will generate, everyone knows it is serious prize money. The winner gets $1,000. Second and thirdplace winners receive $300 and $200, respectively. Contestants come from all over the country. “I would say that last year at least 70 percent of the participants were from out of town,” Arnow said. The show is directed and emceed by local favorite Randy Thompson. As usual, the closing act will be a number by the Key West Wreckers, a longtime tradition of the Headdress Ball. While the contestants are the real stars of the show, a full line up of musical geniuses mean there’s never a dull moment. All partygoers are encouraged to wear head gear. “Even if it’s just a ball cap with a feather in it, everyone should have a headdress on,” Arnow said. Continued on the next page the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Headdress BIG ’UNS PIRATE WENCHES IN PARADISE CONTEST • Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 9 p.m. Big Uns Sports Bar, 218 Duval St. • Cover $10 Continued from previous page Looking for the sexiest wench? Get a signed Fantasy poster Rick Worth will be signing copies of the official Fantasy Fest poster on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at the Crowne Plaza La Concha. This year’s poster features a wacky pirate ship and both political party’s mascots in compromising positions, encapsulating the official theme — Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals. ““I love a good challenge and the theme has three very different elements that I combined into a fun form,” Worth said. A Key West resident for 23 years, Rick Worth is a self taught artist specializing in fine as well as public art. He is known for many of his art cars that roam the streets of Key West. Worth shares his talents with local theater, festivals and charities. Working on backdrops murals and floats, he is no stranger to the creative happenings of Fantasy Fest, which includes his fabulous facades. For festival goers that miss Worth at the poster signing party, his work is also on display at Lucky Street Gallery. — Contributed POSTER SIGNING PARTY Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 5 p.m. Crowne Plaza La Concha 430 Duval St. Free admission Big ’Uns Sports Bar will have the most sexy women parading across the stage on Tuesday, Oct. 21. The actual contest starts after 9 p.m., but women can start registering for the Big ’Uns Pirate Wenches in Paradise Contest, and the $1,000 grand prize, as early as 7:30 p.m. “We did something similar two years ago and hand 800 women register,” said Trudy. “This year I expect to have at least 350 women.” The prize goes to the sexiest wench. Trudy describes the TERRI BRENTNALL/The Citizen The sexiest wench could take home a grand prize of $1,000. sports bar as a sort of “Cheers without clothes.” “It’s a really friendly place. Women don’t hesitate to come here,” she said. DJ Matt Avery will be playing his curious blend of ’80s big hair rock and other favorites. The bar plans to serve 2-for-1 margaritas and $2 domestic drafts among other specials by Capt. Morgan, Coors and Budweiser. “We also make a Key West Ice Tea that tastes like Southern sweet ice tea. It’s very good,” Trudy said. Partygoers pay $10 to get in and advance tickets are available on keystix.com. Big ’Uns Sports Bar is located at 218 Duval St. — Citizen Staff We make your “Fantasies” come true! UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT WEST ISLE CLUB APARTMENTS 3333 Duck Ave. Key West, FL 33040 305-294-3124 • NOW LEASING 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms starting at $1,400 • Pre-wired for cable, phone & DSL service • Refrigerator, Electric Oven/Range, Dishwasher, Garbage Disposal, Washer & Dryer & Central Air/Heat • Spacious Closets, Plenty of Kitchen Cabinets & Tile Floors • Ample On-site Parking • Swimming Pool • Fitness Center & Much More 304710FF The event is the biggest annual fund raiser for the Key West Business Guild, one of the oldest gay and lesbian chambers of commerce in the country. The organization turns 30 this year and event planners are hoping for a big turnout. “The funds raised from the 26th Annual Headdress Ball enable the Key West Business Guild, to continue its mission to promote Key West as a premier destination for GLBT travelers and their friends and family while providing services and support to the Guild’s business members and the community at large,” said John C. Giuliano, executive director. Premium tables cost $320 and regular tables go for $270. (The tables seat four.) To see a seating arrangement and reserve the quickly disappearing tables, visit www.keystix. com. Forty dollars will get you a seat in the back. “This year we’re going to have a video projection system so everyone will have a good view of the stage,” Arnow said. The event is being sponsored by Key West Bank, Cypress House, Island House, Travel Host Magazine and Keystix. After the show, the crowd will travel en masse to a special “after” party at the Keys, a new piano Bar at 114 Duval St. (the location of the former Alice’s Restaurant). The Headdress Ball is an outgrowth of the beginning of Fantasy Fest, first held at the Monster Bar on Front Street 27 years ago. Originally, contestants would first display their headdresses at the Ball, and their costumes would “expand” as events continued throughout the week. — Citizen Staff 11 12 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Locals party at Finnegan’s Last year, organizers of the Finnegan’s Wake Green Party had no idea what to expect from their first foray into the wild, wild world of official Fantasy Fest events. “We were blown away,” said Wayne Keller. “We probably had about 700 people pass through the party. This year, we’re expecting it to be even better.” Finnegan’s Wake Green Party is set for Tuesday, Oct. 21 starting at 8 p.m. The popular restaurant and bar on the edge of the Historic Seaport is the perfect combination of tasty food, great beer and entertaining entertainment. The common denominator of the eccen- tric blend is quality and it’s underlined with a sly sense of humor and cool music. The Stumblebum Brass Band is coming from New York to provide the music. The band features vocalist Josh Malone who plays the trumpet, Jesse Wildcards on the tuba and Jonathan Levy on the drums. They describe themselves as a having the “lo-fi energy of a marching band and the punk aesthetics of the Lower East Side.” But one reviewer called it “perhaps the only jazz outfit equally in debt to the Misfits and Louis Armstrong.” The Stumblebums have played Finnegan’s before and REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE COMPETITION • Tuesday, Oct. 21 Lower Keys and Key West • Free to enter Keller said the sound is just fantastic. Besides music, the restaurant and bar will also be selling party paraphernalia like glow-in-the-dark bracelets and other fun trinkets to benefit the local chapter of Shriners. Drink specials feature Jameson Irish Whiskey and Celtic Crossing liquor. Perhaps the highlight of the whole evening, though, is the edamame (soy bean) eating contest. “We have to repeat it. It was just too much fun,” Keller said. Last year, the wife of the winner made him sleep in another room for four nights. Admission is free for partygoers wearing green party attire. — Citizen Staff FINNEGAN’S WAKE GREEN PARTY • Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 8 p.m. • 320 Grinnell St. • Free (with green costume) Wear something plaid to Capt. Tony’s Saloon This year the Party in Plaid falls on Tuesday, Oct. 21. It all got started when some folks in cyberspace got together and made plans to meet at the bar. They decided to wear plaid in order to recognize one another. Over the years, plaid has morphed into Catholic schoolgirl uniforms and kilts. “We have lots of plaid bikinis and, dare I say, Speedos,” said Joe Faber. “The funny thing is that newcomers come to Capt. Tony’s for the Plaid Party and then they end up coming back every night,” he said. “And no visit to Key West is complete without a stop at Capt. Tony’s.” PARTY IN PLAID • Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 9 p.m. • Capt. Tony’s Saloon, 428 Greene St. • Free admission ForFantasy Festival! May it be the Greatest Ever! Commisioner 304418FF Sylvia Murphy GREAT SUCCESS WITH SHORT SALES! Call: 305-295-7099 www.DunawayMcKenzie.com Businesses, homes wear a costume, too Last year, the Hard Rock Café was ruled by the Queen of Hearts. At least, that was the façade on the popular restaurant and bar on Duval Street. “We had cutouts of all the Alison in Wonderland characters,” said Laura Borlace, Hard Rock’s lead decorator for Fantasy Fest. The Fantasy Façade competition is a decorating contest that ranges all over the Lower Keys and Key West. Both businesses and homes are decorated in the Fantasy Fest theme. Although some owners do it themselves and others hire professional set builders, it really is an even playing field, said facade coordinator Mimi McDonald. “The Reddy Ice Facade Competition encourages people to decorate in the Fantasy Fest theme,” McDonald said. “It really gets the whole town rallying behind the event.” This year, Hard Rock plans to go all out with a pirate ship, black sails and politicians in ball and chains. “The front porch of Hard Rock will look like an underwater battleground populated with the dead,” Laura said with a laugh. “It should be pretty fun.” Entry applications are available at the Fantasy Fest office. Deadline to enter is Friday, Oct. 17 and judging happens on Tuesday, Oct. 21. Call 305-296-5334. Prizes are awarded to the winners. — Citizen Staff Some of Fantasy Fest’s® great sponsors include Pier House Resort & Caribbean Spa, Hyatt Key West Resort & Marina, Big Pecker Wine, Casa Marina, Southernmost Hotel Resorts, Dante’s Restaurant, Beads by the Dozen, Parrot Key Resort and Doubletree Grand Key Resort. 301534FF BEST OF LUCK FILE PHOTO Many homes and businesses in the Keys also dress in costume. The Fantasy Facade competition will be judged on Tuesday. Fantasy Fest® is proud to have such sponsors as Crowne Plaza La Concha, Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa, US1 Radio and Conch Country, Spottswood Companies, The Westin Key West Resort & Marina, Club Zu and Sunshine Rentals. the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Event auctions off Keys singles That could be your exboyfriend or ex-girlfriend up there … if he or she is “good people.” Key West Art Bar’s management scoured the field of Keys singles to come up with a few good folks to auction off for charity on Tuesday, Oct. 21. The money raised will benefit WomanKind, a Keys organization that provides lowcost health care to women of all walks of life. According to Key West Art Bar’s Barb Grob, the idea came about when she was met Casey Wohl, author of a “Girls Getaway Guide to Key West, Leave Your Baggage at Home.” “We were introduced by a mutual friend and we talked about the things that were important to us,” Grob said. “We realized that we had a lot of things in common and decided to host our first Fantasy Fest event and give the proceeds to Womankind.” Wohl writes city-specific travel guides for women that details tips for shopping, spas and party spots. She said she was thrilled about the idea of giving back to organizations that support women. “We’re hoping for a really good turn out that will do the maximum amount of good,” Wohl said. The event is a combination book-signing and bachelor and bachelorette auction studded — ahem — with lots of other fun including a raffle and booty-shaking contest. DJ G will spin the tunes and the Key West Art Bar will also have many drink specials. After the auction, the party is expected to stretch into the wee hours of the morning. The Key West Art Bar is at the corner of Margaret and Caroline streets in the Flagler Station Building. A $10 donation cover charge is suggested. — Citizen Staff 1ST ANNUAL BOOTY PARTY • Tuesday, Oct. 21, 5 to 8 p.m. Key West Art Bar • Cover $10 donation Corner of Margaret and Caroline in the Flagler Station Building Celebrities welcome here This contest attracts all the stars — Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, Shakira. OK, not really. But the contestants really do look like them. The Celebrity Look-Alike contest is set for Wednesday, Oct. 22. Contestants should bring their best game because the first-place winner takes home hundreds of dollars. The Celebrity Look-Alike Contest is hosted by the Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel every year. It’s probably one of the bestattended costume contests just because it’s so accessible — right on Fantasy Fest’s main drag, Duval Street. Registration starts at 8 p.m. and the contest begins about an hour later. — Citizen Staff CELEBRITY LOOK-ALIKE CONTEST Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 8 p.m. Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel 430 Duval St. Free admission 13 TERRI BRENTNALL/The Citizen WKEY PET MASQUERADE & PARADE • Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 5:30 p.m. Casa Marina Resort • 1500 Reynolds St. • Free admission Pets steal the show at Masquerade The WKEY Pet Masquerade and Parade is one of the most beloved events of Fantasy Fest. Who can resist adorable dogs and cats dressed in costume? In years past, festival goers have seen everything from Chihuahuas in drag to weiner dogs painted like a football. “We have locals and their pets in this contest and we also have people all the way from Maine that bring their animals,” said WKEY’s Nancy D’Amato. “This is a huge event that the whole family can enjoy.” About 70 contestants take the stage every year, including small kids and their animals. This year’s event falls on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at the Casa Marina Resort. Categories include the junior division, most exotic (non-man eating species only — no alligators or mountain lions), best theme adaptation and pet and owner look-alike. “And we also give out one grand prize,” D’Amato said. Registration is from 4 to 5:15 p.m. The $25 registration fee goes to the Lower Keys Friends of Animals group, which also helps organize the event. The show starts at 5:30 p.m. and the junior contes- tants take the stage first, followed by the adults. Some simply walk across the stage. Others choreograph an entire tail-wagging number. The beastly brouhaha is emceed by on-air personalities from Key West radio station and event sponsor WKEY. “We’ve done it so many years, I can’t imagine not doing it. Plus it benefits the animals that Key West loves so much,” said D’Amato. Only human party animals are welcome in the audience. Those who do not have a performing pet are asked to leave them at home. — Citizen Staff Club Zu stages party Club Zu is hosting its own Fantasy Fest event in 2008. The party is set for Wednesday, Oct. 22 starting at 8 p.m. You’ll want to get there early, wearing leather or lace or both. The best Mr. and Mrs. Leather and Lace will win a three-day, two-night stay at Hedonism III, a alternative resort located on Jamaica’s north shore. The judging stars at midnight. Club Zu is located just off Duval Street on Applerouth Lane, a secret alley filled with sensual surprises. CLUB ZU’S FANTASY FEST PARTY Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 8 p.m. 422 Applerouth Lane Cost: $15 304650FF 14 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Bikini event is a big favorite Revelers should definitely makes advance plans to attend the Hog’s Breath Beach Party and Homemade Bikini Contest. It’s one of the most popular and well-attended Fantasy Fest events. And this year, for the first time, advance tickets will be sold through www.keystix.com. Conceivably, it could be a sell out before the doors even open on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. “The advance tickets only cost $15 online, compared to $20 at the door,” said Art Levin of Hog’s Breath Saloon. This party is both sexy and funny. What’s not to love about a bikini made from teacups? Or a bikini top made BEACH PARTY AND HOMEMADE to look like a double-barBIKINI CONTEST • Wednesday, reled bubble gum dispenser, Oct. 22 at 10 p.m. • Hog’s complete with a line of plastic Breath Saloon, 400 Front St. tubing filled with colorful Cover $20 candy snaking down her The doors open at 7 p.m. body? and the contest starts at “I fully expect to have at about 10 p.m. Beach attire is least one ‘Sarah Palin’ in a stars and stripes bikini,” Levin recommended. “It fills up fast,” Levin said. laughed. 304244FF Odors in your Business or Home? (305) 879-1839 Free Mold Inspection MOLD LICENSED & INSURED The only floating authentic Thai restaurant in the U.S. Right here in Key West. Open 11e-d11 Fantasy Special Clos ays Tuesd If you are new to Thai Life or already a regular, come try our lunch special from 11am-3pm daily. Try anything on our menu for $11.95 - including dinner menu. The very best Thai chef... The very best ingredients... the very best Thai cuisine. Come aboard...join us for lunch...If you can’t make lunch, receive 15% off for dinner! 15% DISCOUNT WITH THIS AD 305056FF Lovely breezes and plenty of free parking. Watch the sunset as you enjoy the very best of Thai cuisine. The very best of Thai cuisine, fresh seafood and some American favorites. 1801 N Roosevelt - U.S. 1 City Marina •305-296-9907 Last year’s Homemade Bikini Contest winner revealed quite a bit of creativity in her interpretation of the Alison-inWonderland like Fantasy Fest theme. The ‘tea’ was just right to take home the prize at the annual event staged by Hog’s Breath Saloon. Contributed “Get here early if you want to see the show.” There will be only 30 contestants this year. Contestants must be at least 18 years old. The ladies abide by the “no frontal nudity or you will be disqualified” clause because they want a chance at the $1,500 first prize. Second and third-place winners receive $250 and $100 respectively. The Beach Party is an almost 21-year-old tradition. In the past it’s attracted quite a few memorable bikinis. One favorite in 2007 was a woman gambling that the poker chips and playing cards making up her homemade bikini wouldn’t shift to reveal something important. The drink specials of the evening are “Havana Hog Punch” made with Bacardi Light and Goombay Smash with Bacardi Coco. Proceeds from the event support the MARC house, a local charity that supports residents with developmental disabilities. For more information, visit the Web site at www.hogsbreath.com or call 305-2939480. — Citizen Staff Cheeseburger hosts ‘Wild and Kinky’ Luau On Wednesday, Oct. 22, revelers trade the tropical paradise of Key West for the tropical paradise of the South Pacific at Cheeseburger’s Wild and Kinky Luau. “We’ve hired a fire dancer who will emcee the whole event,” said organizer Dwayne Raulerson. “He’ll get everybody dancing and we’ll probably have hula hoop contests and limbo games.” Cheeseburger, located at 217 Duval St., will be transformed into a Hawaiian oasis. A huge allyou-can-eat buffet will groan under the weight of roasted pig, poi, Caribbean jerk chicken and the eatery’s trademark cheeseburgers. Raulerson said the entire spread will have a Hawaiian theme with a bit of Caribbean spice. Admission is free to party. The buffet costs $29.95 and includes two drinks. “I don’t care what you want — you can have a huge mai tai or anything else,” Raulerson said. “It’s a small venue but we pack the place and have a really good time.” — Citizen Staff CHEESEBURGER WILD AND KINKY LUAU • Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 9 p.m. Cheeseburger, 217 Duval St. • No cover, $30 buffet You’ll see red all night Prepare to see red — red decorations, red lights and red balloons. “The best part of this party are the costumes,” said organizer Joe Walsh. As long as it’s red, any costume will do for the Red Nights party on Wednesday, Oct. 22 at the historic Fogarty House. Partygoers are encouraged to enter one of the many aspects of the costume contest. In the past, prizes have been awarded for “best strut on the red carpet” and “best redhead” among other offbeat and zany red categories. Near midnight, balloons with prizes inside will be dropped on the crowd. “Definitely the place to hang out is in the courtyard for our famous balloon drop,” said Dara Vidal, party organizer, adding that the many, many balloons are filled with prizes. Besides a wonderful party, Red Nights is a huge fundraising endeavor. Organizers have raised more than $25,000 for public school programs in the Keys over the past six years. — Citizen Staff RED NIGHTS • Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 9 p.m. Fogarty’s & Flying Monkeys, 227 Duval St. • Cover $10 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Monsters lurk at the Green Parrot to compare scary wear Often accused of being trapped in its own murky depths, The Green Parrot Bar will host its annual costume event on Thursday, Oct. 23. The costume party’s official title is Monsters from the Sea. As always, the patrons of Green Parrot can be counted on to flaunt some surreal fantasies and some too-real monstrous fantasies. Yes! Just remember, this is a costume party — not a contest. The live music is a big part of Green Parrot’s draw. Returning this year are the famed Siberian surf rockers — The Red Elvises. PAJAMA & LINGERIE PARTY • Thursday, Oct. 23 at 10 p.m. Mangoes, 700 Duval St. • Cover: Keystix.com Pajama and lingerie party sells out in a big hurry MONSTERS FROM THE SEA • Thursday, Oct. 23 at 10 p.m. Green Parrot Bar, 601 Whitehead St. • Free admission “They are back and ready to tear it up and whip this crowd into a frenzy with high-energy, kick-ass rock ‘n roll playing until the wee hours,” said organizer John Vagnoni. Three actual Russians and a Texan form this unforgettable band. They play a special blend of Russian and international music complete with 15 reckless surf and rockabilly licks, that can only lead to one wild night of high-energy music. The Green Parrot Bar, long known for its “refined” atmosphere and as the only true locals’ bar, is at 601 Whitehead St. Come on in, it’s not as scary as it looks! — Contributed Kristy Morgan of Tila Tequila fame will be the celebrity of the night at the Playboy Pajama & Lingerie Party on Thursday, Oct. 23. The event, hosted by Mangoes on Duval Street, will probably sell out. “This is a very fun party,” said organizer Louie C Rock. “Last year we sold out, so I highly recommend that people buy their tickets in advance.” Both regular and VIP tickets are available at www.keystix.com. The party will feature a Marilyn Monroe and Hugh Hefner lookalike contest. The winners take home $700. Guests are encouraged to dress in their pajamas or lingerie for this event and rock to the DJ’s beat. For more information, call 305-304-1188. — Citizen Staff It’s ‘Halos or Horns’ at Dante’s pool party Dante’s is one of the most unique bar and restaurants in Key West because the whole thing surrounds a vast, crystal blue swimming pool. What better place for the Halos and Horns Pool Party and Wet T-shirt Contest on Thursday, Oct. 23? “This year is going to be bigger and better than ever,” said organizer Nicole Reynolds. The party starts at 1 p.m. and lasts all day. The actual wet T-shirt contest starts around 5 p.m. “The winners will receive cash and prizes,” Reynolds said, “but we only have room for 35 women in the contest, so they should get here early.” Caffeine Carl and the Buzz will play rockin’ rock and roll tunes and artists will be scat- tered around the property painting bodies for free. There is no cover charge to attend the Halos and Horns pool party. Dante’s is located at 951 Caroline St. and the phone number is 305-2935123. — Citizen Staff DANTE’S POOL PARTY & WET T-SHIRT CONTEST Thursday, Oct. 23 at 1 p.m. 951 Caroline St. • Free The girls get ‘em wet at Bill’s Honky Tonk All eyes will be on the contestants of the second annual Git-R-Wet T-shirt Contest at Cowboy Bill’s Saloon on Thursday, Oct. 23.. The first-prize winner takes home $1,000. Billy describes the wet T-shirt as a, “regular, straightup T-shirt contest.” And by that, he means no Western garb is necessary. Organizers hope to have about 25 women compete in the contest. The contest is free to enter. Local favorite Bill Hoebee will emcee the event. Cowboy’s Bills has three bars. Much of the action takes place outside under the stars. The night will feature Pendleton Whisky drinks for $5. There is a $10 cover charge and VIP tickets are available for $25 at www.keystix.com. — Citizen Staff GIT-R-WET T-SHIRT CONTEST Thursday, Oct. 23 at 10 p.m. Cowboy Bill’s, 610 ½ Duval St. Cover $10/$25 304708 16 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals The Pretenders dress fancy in our Paradise Amateurs and professionals with creative impulses and a sense of the outrageous are encouraged to enter Fantasy Fest’s most exciting costume competition, Pretenders in Paradise. This year’s theme, “The PANDEMONIUM Party,” will have contestants dreaming and designing fantastic costumes to display on the beach at Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa, located at 1 Duval Street. This year the competition is pushing for contestants of all kinds. Pretenders in Paradise have revamped the group and individual categories to draw in professional and amateur contestants alike. Contestants that have won three times or more are automatically considered professional. Any past Pretenders in Paradise is one of the longestrunning and highestpaying costume contests in Fantasy Fest history. FILE PHOTO PRETENDERS IN PARADISE • Thursday, Oct. 23 at 8 p.m. • Pier House, 1 Duval St. • Cover $30 contestant that has won two times or less can choose to compete as a professional or an amateur. Amateurs should not be discouraged by our spectacular competition. Prizes are awarded accordingly and we urge anyone to enter the Ultimate Costume Competition. Pretenders in Paradise is a professional display of costuming — no lip syncing or karaoke will be permitted. Pretenders in Paradise offers $10,000 in total cash prizes and five categories for costumed entrants. Professional individual category: $2,000 first place, $1,500 second and $1,000 third; amateur category; $1,500 first place, $750 second and $500 third; group entries must have four or more participants and can capture $1,500 for the professional category and $1,250 for the amateur category. Contestants pay a registration fee of $10 for individuals and $20 for groups. — Contributed Toga Party back for another year The toga party, now in its 25th year, is set for Thursday, Oct. 23 at the worldfamous Sloppy Joe’s. Registration starts at 8 p.m. and the contest field and bar fills up pretty quickly. There are three contest categories: couples or groups, men and women. The group category can range from two to eight in number. First place prize for the group is $500. The best man and the best woman will be awarded $250 each. “The contestants are urged to dress in togas with the Fantasy Fest theme — pirates, pundits & Political Party animals,” said Sloppy Joe’s Donna Edwards, “but at the very minimum they at least have to be wearing togas.” Body paint doesn’t count as a toga, no matter how artfully applied. Contestants that arrive sans sheets, can buy one from Sloppy Joe’s for $8. The sale proceeds benefit AIDS Help. “It’s just a white sheet,” said organizer Donna Edwards. “If they want to be more creative, they should definitely plan ahead.” The contest begins at 9:30 p.m. It is free to enter and the cover charge (starting at 6:30 p.m.) is $10. — Citizen Staff SLOPPY JOE’S TOGA PARTY Thursday, Oct. 23 at 10 p.m. Sloppy Joe’s Bar 201 Duval St. Cover $10 Fantasy Fest® is made possible by Sex Drive Energy Drink, Coca-Cola, Crowne Plaza La Concha, Pier House Resort, Sheraton Suites Key West, Spottswood Companies, The Westin Key West Resort & Marina, Key West Express 301538 FF Fantasy Fest® is brought to you by Crowne Plaza La Concha, Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa, Parrot Key Resort, Spottswood Companies, The Westin Key West Resort & Marina, Parrot Key Resort, Vox Communications, Big Pecker Wines, Coca-Cola, Casa Marina, Club Zu, Dante’s Restaurant, Southernmost Hotel Collection, Sunshine Rentals, Sex Drive Energy Drink, Bare Necessities Tour & Travel, Too Much Fun Key West the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 17 Local gallery hosts running art show Galerie Du Val is throwing open the doors and inviting patrons inside to watch the artists at work. Visitors will be able to meet artists Adam Rote, Steve Tracy and Stephen Harlan. Later in the week artists Bill Mack and Dale TerBush will also be in situ. “I wanted to bring in different artists into the gallery on different days of the week during Fantasy Fest,” said gallery coowner George Guzman. The reception starts at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23, and guests are treated to champagne, hors d’oeuvres and special pricing on fabulous artwork. The Gallery is owned by Guzman and his wife Carla, and also partners Mark Grunberg and Donnie Hill. It has been open seven months and is already a success, Guzman said, crediting not only the “world class” artists but also the dedicated gifted employees. The gallery features a wide range of artwork ranging from artist Adam Rote’s nostalgic dreamscapes to Steve Tracy’s surreal abstracts and Stephen Harlan’s unique computer-generated artwork. Also on display are the canvas and sculpture works of Bill Mack and Dale TerBush’s surreal landscapes and seascapes. Tom Blankenship’s famous golf course artwork also hangs in the gallery. For more details, call 305294-7270. DREAM TEAM OF THE ART WORLD • Thursday, Oct. 23 at 6 p.m. • Galerie du Val, 534 Duval St. • Free admission Duval Street transforms into Street Fair On Friday, Oct. 24, the first eight blocks of Duval Street are transformed into a menagerie of arts, crafts, food, and libations. The Fantasy Fest Street Fair runs from noon until 10 p.m. and is a great place to buy costume accessories whether you plan to be dressed for the high sea or need the accoutrements denoting your high office. Duval Street is closed from Front Street to Truman Avenue, while Eaton Street, Front Street, Angela Street and Truman Avenue remain open to vehicular traffic. Arts and crafts booths line the street and many of our local sunset celebration vendors move their unique crafts from Mallory Square to Duval. You can find beautiful handmade jewelry, high quality feather and leather masks, and even costumes for your favorite pets. Each year the assortment of arts and crafts grows and changes and there is sure to be something for everyone’s taste and pocketbook. The variety of food runs the gamut from fresh stone crab to hearty Greek sausage and peppers. Make sure you stroll the length of the street fair before choosing; you’ll be sorry if you head to the first arepa stand and find that what you really wanted was a falafel! The 800 block features the 801 Bourbon Tea Dance. STREET FAIR Friday, Oct. 24 • Noon to 10 p.m. Duval Street • Free FILE PHOTO Plan to stuff yourself with delicious food at the Street Fair on Friday, Oct. 24. Drinks — beer, wine and rum — are also for sale at various libation booths. Be on the lookout for lots of beads, boys and booze at this lively block party complete with heart-pumping amplified music and a high wire 304644FF act. Support our local charities and quench your thirst at one of the five libation booths located throughout the fair. The vendors serve Budweiser and Bud light beer, mixed drinks featuring Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Big Pecker Wines, Coca Cola products and Dasani water, and Sex Drive Energy Drink. Local non-profits count on the profits from the libation booths to support their activities throughout the year. As the sun sets, the party gets crazier as pirates and pundits creep from behind closed doors to model their elaborate painted bodies or show off their costumed extravaganzas. Be sure to join the throng because the Fantasy Fest Street Fair is truly the place to strut your stuff, or to ogle others, before heading home to rest up for the big parade the following day. — Contributed 18 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals The Masquerade March is for the masses Key West has the only parade in the world that when it starts, goes in two different directions. Revelers meet at the Key West Cemetery. When the start signal sounds, half the marchers head for Truman Street and the other half turn toward Fleming Street, marching the wrong way down that one-way street. And that’s before anyone has had a drink. “The Fairvilla Megastore Masquerade March is really a cocktail parade,” said organizer Mimi McDonald. “We stop at various guesthouses and they put out the ‘bug juice.’ We couldn’t do it without their generosity.” This year, participating guesthouses will be marked with a huge cascade of balloons. That’s because the sea of costumed marchers — easily 1,000 strong on each route — can hide the exact location of the free booze. Tragedy! The Masquerade March starts at 5 p.m. at the Key West Cemetery and ends about 7:30 p.m. when the crowds dump out on the upper portion of Duval Street to join the Street Fair. Everyone is welcome and anyone can jump off the sidewalk and join in. Marchers on the Truman route are led by the Caribbean Junkanoos. They also take a mid-march break at the Southernmost Hotel for more fun and hilarity. Marchers on the Fleming route follow a rock and roll band. The Masquerade March is one of the longest-running Fantasy Fest events. “It all started with a rag tag bunch of musicians that would walk through the streets of Key West and some of the guesthouses would invite them in for a drink,” said McDonald. “Now it’s this huge thing.” Sometimes the costumes worn for the Masquerade March outdo those seen on the following night of the parade. And it’s where the groups of similarly dressed costumers like to strut their stuff. “I think you see funnier and quirkier costumes at the March on Friday than you do at the Parade on Saturday,” McDonald said. Last year we had hundreds of old men dressed up as Alison in Wonderland and a bunch of gnomes and mushrooms. People are amazingly creative.” See the sidebar for a list of guesthouses where marchers will be stopping. — Citizen Staff FAIRVILLA MEGASTORE MASQUERADE MARCH Friday, Oct. 24 at 5 p.m. • Parade begins at Frances Street entrance to Key West Cemetery • Free MARCH SPONSOR TERRI BRENTNALL/The Citizen Masquerade Marchers take their costumes seriously. A bride and her wedding cake vow to march all over Key West. It’s befitting that once again Fairvilla MegaStore is sponsoring the free-spirited style of the Masquerade March. “Fairvilla MegaStore Bill Murphy is one of those rare people whose festive personality and taste for the unusual keep the party rocking. Or should I say rolling in the case of the Masquerade March?” said Linda O’Brien, executive director of Fantasy Fest. Fairvilla MegaStore is a one-stop shop whether you are a raucous buccaneer, extreme egghead or a puppet of the government. You’ll find all the right components to stimulate the imagination and help create your, or someone else’s, perfect fantasy. “The most difficult thing to do at Fairvilla MegaStore is choose among all the fantasy wear,” Murphy said. “The volume of costuming and accessories available is astounding!” The high quality selections include handmade leather masks and elaborate headdresses displayed prominently throughout the store. Search for every costume you could ever imagine, and some you couldn’t. The staff at Fairvilla Megastore is ready to make your fantasies come true. Visit Fairvilla MegaStore at 520 Front St. or the Web site at www.fairvilla.com. the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals March Mania makes a stop at Southernmost Hotel on Friday There are guests that book their rooms at the Southernmost Hotel months in advance of Fantasy Fest. Sure, they come for the citywide party, but their real focus is the hotel’s PreMasquerade March costume contest and pool party. This year’s theme is “Presidents, Politicians and Public Affairs.” There will certainly be a few Hillary’s outfitted in appropriate pant suits as well as some Obama impersonators and a few guests who might mimic McCain. But really the opportunities are boundless. Think Clinton’s Monica Lewinski, Hart’s Donna Rice and Edward’s Rielle Hunter. “You could come as Sarah Palin, George Washington, John Kerry or a White House intern,” said the hotel’s Lisa Malone. “We’re trying to open it up and have a lot of fun in this political year.” Last year’s winner were a few donuts shy of a dozen. Dressed as Krispy Kreme confections they bribed their way into the winner’s circle by passing out the sugary confections to the audience and judging panel. “The group that won last year are longtime guests,” said Malone. First prize is a whopper — a five-night stay at Southernmost Hotel, round trip tickets on Southwest Airlines and $300 cash. 19 Kiss fans head to Mangoes The Eighth Annual Living Art Expo at the Ocean Key Resort features a bevy of painted ladies. The winning artists takes home big bucks. Contributed Where art comes alive The beauties garner all the applause, but the artists take home the prize money at this Fantasy Fest Event. Ocean Key Resort’s Living Art and Airbrush Expo is a veritable fashion extravaganza of painted ladies on Friday, Oct. 24. “It’s all about the artist,” said general manager Matt Trahan. “The models are a beautiful canvas, but the cash goes to the body-painting artist.” The prize is hefty. The first, second and third place winEIGHTH ANNUAL LIVING ART AIRBRUSH EXPO Friday, Oct. 24 at 9 p.m. Ocean Key Resort & Spa 0 Duval St. • Cover $10/$250 ners take home more than $1,500. Ocean Key Resort sets up a professional runway that stretches half the length of its famous pier. Up to 35 airbrushed women parade down the catwalk to the cheers of many. But the entertainment starts long before that. Many artists paint their subjects at the party. The doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at about 9 p.m. Models and artists are judged on creativity, attention to detail and the official Fantasy Fest theme — Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals General admission is $10. VIP tickets are being sold on www.keystix.com and cost $150. — Citizen Staff One of the biggest musical acts to play during Fantasy Fest is Kiss Army, the fabulous tribute band to that ’70s icon. They take the stage on Friday, Oct. 24 at Mangoes for the firstever ’70s Kiss Party. “This is one of the finest tribute bands out there,” said party organizer Louie C Rock. “They are endorsed by the real band because they put on such a spectacular show. If you’re a Kiss fan, you cannot afford to miss this event.” One of the highlights of the party will be the Gene Simmons and Cher look-alike contest. The winners take home $700. All others are encouraged to wear cool and funky fashions from the 1970s. Guest DJs will play oldies but goldies throughout the party. To buy tickets — regular, VIP or platinum VIP — log on to www.keystix.com. For more information, call 305-3041188. — Citizen Staff ’70S KISS PARTY • Friday, Oct. 24 at 10 p.m. Mangoes, 700 Duval St. • tickets from Keystix.com. 520 Southard Street, Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.294.3040 x120 Terri Riley Wilson Mobile: 305.394.4106 REALTOR® Home: 305.296.0456 pewtar@bellsouth.net www.RealKeyWest.com 301537 FF See MANIA, page 22 PRE-MASQUERADE MARCH COSTUME CONTEST & POOL PARTY • Friday, Oct. 24 at 4 p.m. • Southernmost Hotel, 1319 Duval St. • Free 304702FF 301535 FF 20 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Wednesday, October 22 Friday, October 17 GOOMBAY – Tastes, sights and sounds of the Caribbean in Bahama Village, located at Duval and Petronia Streets. The lively street party continues Saturday! Noon - midnight; FREE ROYAL CORONATION BALL – Meet Key West’s Royal Family and vote for the King and Queen of Fantasy Fest 2008; a benefit for AIDS Help, Inc.; La Te Da; 1125 Duval St; 6-10 pm; (305)296-6706; Suggested donation Saturday, October 18 GOOMBAY – The party continues in Bahama Village! Noon - midnight; FREE Sunday, October 19 MEL FISHER MARITIME MUSEUM PRESENTS THE HOT WENCH & WICKED PIRATE TEA DANCE – The event features a pirate costume contest with competition in four categories: Best Pirate, Best Wench, Best Pirate Couple and Queen Anne’s Revenge (Best Drag Wench). In the museum courtyard at 4pm. Party-goers will dance the night away. info@melfisher.org or call 305-294-2633 ext. 13; FREE Monday, October 20 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS – A leather fetish party that’s definitely not for the timid or shy!; 801 Bourbon Bar; (305)293-9800; 9 pm; $ Tuesday, October 21 REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE™ COMPETITION – Festively decorated homes and businesses compete for cold cash! To enter, call (305)296-5334 FREE OFFICIAL FANTASY FEST POSTER SIGNING PARTY – Meet the award-winning artist of this year's poster, Rick Worth. Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel; 5 pm; posters for sale. 1ST ANNUAL BOOTY PARTY – Join The Getaway Girl™ author Casey Wohl at the official release of her latest book, Girls Getaway Guide to Key West, as she and the Key West Art Bar (corner of Margaret & Caroline in Flagler Station Building) co-host a fundraiser for Womankind. Join us for drinks and “booty” with a benefit bachelor auction. 5-8 pm; (305)296-0424; $10 donation FINNEGAN'S WAKE GREEN PARTY – Come celebrate the ultimate Irish party! Live music with the Stumble Bum Brass Band. Greenwear will be sold to benefit the Shriners of Key West. Try your odds at the edamame eating contest. Wear your green and receive NO COVER; 8 pm; 320 Grinnell St.; (305)293-0222; www.keywestirish.com 26TH ANNUAL HEADDRESS BALL – A gala where headdresses are the stars of the show; Prizes for Best Headdress: (costumes not judged) $1,000 first; $300 second; $200 third; 8pm; general admission $30; tables VIP for 4 - $320 or for 4 - $270; standing in rear $40; Southernmost Hotel Collection WWW.KEYSTIX.COM or (305)296-1520 BIG ’UNS PIRATE WENCH IN PARADISE COMPETITION – Throw together your sexiest pirate wench outfit for $1,000 of booty! Wear as little or as much as you want! 218 Duval St.; $10; 8pm-1am; (305)292-0486 PARTY IN PLAID – Swing into Fantasy Fest at legendary Capt. Tony's Saloon! Explore your fantasies in naughty or nice plaid attire. Meet new friends, enjoy live music and rum specials all night long; www.capttonys saloon.com; 428 Greene St.; 9 pm; FREE WKEY PET MASQUERADE & PARADE – A magical carousel of frisky pets and playful owners delightfully disguised and ready to frolic for fame and fortune; Registration for competition is at 4:30 pm; FREE to watch; $25 to enter; benefits Lower Keys Friends of Animals; Casa Marina Resort; 1500 Reynolds St. CELEBRITY LOOK-A-LIKE CONTEST – Imitators of the famous and fabled vie for cash and prizes; Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel. Contestant sign up 8 pm; FREE to watch; FREE to enter. RED NIGHT – Fogarty's 7th Annual Red Party! Don't miss this often imitated, but never duplicated party; costume contest; door prizes; live DJ; 227 Duval St.; (305)294-7525; $ CLUB ZU SPONSORED FANTASY FEST PARTY – Leather and Lace will be the theme of the night. Sexy and sensual vibes will fill the air. Wear the appropriate attire and drink for free from 8-10 pm; 422 Appelrouth Ln.; www.clubzu.com; (305)295-2498 CHEESEBURGER'S WILD AND KINKY LU’AU – Get lei’d Hawaiian style – Cheeseburger Key West invites you to a night of feasting & fun. The coconut telephone calls to all you pineapple papas and mango mamas to join Cheeseburger for their second annual Lu’au. Mai Tai's, Limbo Rock and a bona fide pig roast. Prizes for “Best Big Kahuna Costume” and most “Inventive Hula Dance.” 9 pm; (305)296-9466; $ HOMEMADE BIKINI CONTEST & BEACH PARTY – Hog's Breath Saloon proudly presents the 21st Annual Fantasy Fest Homemade Bikini Contest and Beach Party. Details of the contest are at www.hogsbreath.com; 400 Front St.; (305)296-4222; 10 pm; $ Thursday, October 23 DANTE'S 2ND ANNUAL “HALOS & HORNS” POOL PARTY & WET T-SHIRT CONTEST – Whether you wear the halo of an angel or prefer devilish horns, get wet & wild at Dante’s for a chance to win big $$$! Free body painting, live music, great giveaways, fantastic food and drink specials & our one of a kind stage in the center of the pool! The party starts at 1 pm and goes until 6 pm, pole dancing starts at 4:30 pm; Dante’s Restaurant & Raw Bar; 951 Caroline St, next to the ferry terminal; (305)293-5123; danteskeywest.com GALERIE DUVAL'S 1ST ANNUAL “DREAM TEAM OF THE ART WORLD” – Galerie duVal’s first annual “Dream Team of the Art World!” Come meet and watch some of the world’s most famous artist’s perform their magic right before your eyes. Headlining this event is world renowned relief sculptor Bill Mack. Join us for this spectacular event at Galerie duVal; 534 Duval St.; 6-10 pm; (305)294-7270; FREE SLOPPY JOE’S 25TH ANNUAL TOGA PARTY – “Still The Best Ancient Roman Party In Town!” To enter contest, contestants must be dressed in toga and are encouraged to dress as Fantasy Fest themed “Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals.” Three divisions: Groups/Couples $500 first place; Men’s $250 first place; and Women’s first place $250. Free to enter contest; registration at 8 pm and contest begins at 9:30 pm; door charge; www.sloppyjoes.com; 201 Duval St. PRETENDERS IN PARADISE “THE PANDEMONIUM PARTY” – The legendary costume competition with $10,000 in cash and prizes! Combining extraordinary creative genius and performing energy, this year’s event promises to be eye popping entertainment; Pier House Resort & Caribbean Spa, beachside; www.pierhouse.com; 8 pm; $ PAJAMA AND LINGERIE PARTY – The hottest Playboy model in the world, Kristy Morgan from the reality TV show "Tila Tequila," encourages you to dress sexy for this skimpy affair. Enter the $700 Hugh Hefner and Marilyn Monroe look-a-like contest, plus enjoy guest D.J.’s live. This event is guaranteed to sell out. Purchase advance VIP tickets online at WWW.KEYSTIX.COM; Mangoes; 700 Duval Street; (305)304-1188; 10 pm; $$ the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals The colorful Fantasy Fest® web site has expanded descriptions of all events, including addresses, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, sponsor web links, prices and more! Visit www.fantasyfest.net for the very latest in fantastical happenings! Daily Diversions INDECENT EXPOSURE – Party like Adam and Eve day and night at the Garden of Eden, clothing optional rooftop bar, above the Bull & Whistle on the corner of Caroline and Duval in the 200 block. Body painting; Open 10 am - 4 am everyday; $ FANTASY CYBER SOUVENIRS – Visit the Fantasy Fest® Store anytime at www.fantasyfest.net for memorabilia that makes the fantasy a reality! Official posters, T-shirts and limited edition medallions. To purchase the Official 2008 T-shirt please call Keyboard Advertising at (305)292-9315. KEYSTIX.COM – THE KEYS PREMIER INTERNET TICKETING SOURCE – Visit KEYSTIX.COM year round for tickets to concerts, comedy, Broadway musicals and special events in Key West. www.keystix.com or (305)295-7676 COWBOY BILL’S 2ND ANNUAL GIT-R-WET T-SHIRT CONTEST – Catch the hottest ladies competing for $1,500 in cash prizes in this over-the- top competition. Contestants model the finest in creative cotton wet t-shirt apparel. DJ Bill Hoebee MC's all the wild festivities. See the action live at www.CowboyBillsKW.com 610 1/2 Duval St.; 10 pm; 2958219; VIP seating available, door charge MONSTER’S BALL – Sea serpents, mermaids, and other bizarre creatures of the deep! What lurks below and who's dancing on the reef? Dive into the annual costume party and explore some surreal fantasies that should perhaps remain submerged! Green Parrot Bar; 10 pm; FREE Friday, October 24 FANTASY FEST STREET FAIR – Duval Street's mile-long eater-tainment extravaganza features arts and crafts, food vendors, lively libations and costumed frivolity; 12 pm - 10 pm 801 BOURBON BAR TEA DANCE – Plenty of sugar and spice at this tea in the street party; Live DJ, cool drinks, dancers, drag queens and celebrities; (305)293-9800; 801 Duval St.; 1 pm; FREE PRESIDENTS, POLITICIANS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS – Calling all “presidents, politicians and participants of their public affairs” to exercise your right to participate in the Southernmost Hotel in the USA 13th Annual Costume Contest, a preevent to the half-way party of the Masquarade March! The most theme oriented costumes have the opportunity to win airline tickets, hotel stays and more!Grand Prize: 5 night stay at Southernmost Hotel and 2 round trip tickets on Southwest Airlines; $300 Cash; 4-6 pm; www.southernmostresorts.com; Southernmost Hotel; 1319 Duval St.; FREE FAIRVILLA MEGASTORE MASQUERADE MARCH – Join the crowd as they parade through Old Town with music and noisemakers; thirst quenchers provided at selected guesthouses. Begins at the Key West Cemetery Frances Street entrance; revelers can join the mad march anywhere along the two routes; 5pm; All welcome; sponsored by Key West's costume headquarters - Fairvilla Megastore; www.fairvilla.com; FREE WYLAND GALLERIES “FANTASY OF ART” EXTRAVAGANZA – Discover new artisitic fantasies by America’s leading masters of ocean, surrealistic and dreamscape art. Celebrate Fantasy Fest’s exuberant creative spirit at Wyland’s 623 and 102 Duval St. galleries; 6-10 pm; (305)292-4998 or (305)294-5240; www.wylandkeywest.com; FREE 8TH ANNUAL LIVING ART AIRBRUSH EXPO – Contestants will use the human form as a living canvas for artistic expression in competition for more than $1,5000 in prizes; drink specials and live entertainment; Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort; painting and partying start at sunset; judging begins at 9 pm; (305)295-7045; $ RUM BARREL’S 2ND ANNUAL PIRATE BASH – Dress and DRINK LIKE A PIRATE at the Rum Barrel! Key West’s resident pirate and rum experts – Pirate Soul Museum and Rum Barrel Restaurant & Bar – team up to throw the most outrageous Pirates Bash in the world! More than $1500 in cash prizes for the best pirate and wench costumes, great music on the rooftop stage, and awesome rum specials. More info at RumBarrel.com or (305)2927862. Piratical inspiration at PirateSoul.com; 9 pm.; $ 70'S KISS PARTY – The Kings of Rock, Kiss Army perform in make-up live on stage. Relive the 1970's in cool and funky costume wear. Enter the $700 Gene Simmons and Cher look-a-like contest and enjoy various guest D.J.'s mixing oldies, but goldies. This event is guaranteed to sell out. Purchase advance VIP tickets online at KEYSTIX.COM; Mangoes; 700 Duval St.; (305)304-1188; 10 pm; $$ PIMP AND HO PARTY – America’s #1 movie star, Ron Jeremy, invites you to come fulfill your fantasy at this exotic dance party. Enter the $700 Mr. Pimp and Ms. Ho costume contest, plus enjoy guest D.J.'s live. This event is guaranteed to sell out. Purchase advance VIP tickets online at WWW.KEYSTIX.COM; Redfish Bluefish; 407 Front Street; (305)3041188; 10 pm; $$ Saturday, October 25 CAPTAIN MORGAN FANTASY FEST PARADE – Join 70,000 exuberant partygoers as this year's parade rolls down Duval Street. Featuring glittering floats, marching bands and dancing groups, it doesn't get any wilder than this! Parade route includes Whitehead, Front and Duval Streets; 7 pm; www.captainmorgan.com; FREE DUVAL STREET PROMENADE – Sassy entertainers, enticing food and spirited libations tempt costumed merrymakers as they party from the Gulf to the Atlantic; Noon 10:30 pm; FREE BOURBON STREET PUB - TEA IN THE STREET – An afternoon street party starting at noon giving you a Taste of New Orleans decadence in Old Town Key West. Booze, Beads and Boys. Live entertainment and much more at the biggest street dance party of Fantasy Fest; 724 Duval St.; FREE EPIDERMAL ARTS AND TORSO TAPESTRIES CONTEST – Art lovers gather for this bona fide cultural event to determine the best illustrated bodies. The battle of the emblazoned bods elevates this art form to something aesthetic, creative and maybe even poetic; Green Parrot Bar; 3pm; FREE Sunday, October 26 GROG AND FROG! WITH THE PIRATES OF THE SANCTUARY BRUNCH – Ahoy Matey! Set sail and join the Pirates of the Sanctuary for some delicious “Grog & Frog.” So round up your Captain and crew and make your way to the shores of the Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa or face the perils of Davy Jones’ Locker! Ahhhrrrrrrr! Enjoy the great fortune of complimentary mimosas and unlimited champagne $37.50 plus tax per pirate and pirates 12 and under half fare; Reservations suggested; Hyatt, 601 Front Street; 11 am – 3 pm; (305)809-4000 OFFICIAL BIG PECKER WINE TASTING – Stop by MM 28.5 on your way out of town for a free wine tasting of Big Pecker Wine; the Official Wine Sponsor of Fantasy Fest 2008; 11 am to 11 pm; Parrotdise Waterfront Bar & Grille; 183 Barry Ave., Little Torch Key; (305)872-9989; www.parrotdisewaterfront.com CHILDREN’S DAY – A family event featuring food, games, arts and crafts and a costume contest for children. Bayview Park at Truman Ave. and Eisenhower Dr.; (305)292-8912 HALF-WAY HOME BBQ AT ROBBIE’S MARINA – On your way home to the mainland, take a short pit stop at our rustic and laid back marina at MM 77.5 on the bayside in Islamorada. We will be serving BBQ chicken, pork and ribs. Savor a relaxing lunch on our beach, enjoy live music and an art show, feed our famous tarpon, shop for some last minute take home gifts, or sip a cold fruit smoothie. “THE FAT LADY SINGS” TEA DANCE – As the saying goes, “It ain’t over ‘til the fat lady sings.” Everyone will be at La Te Da from 4 pm to 9 pm for the last official event of Fantasy Fest 2008. DJ Junior provides the music for the last hoorah while local celebrity Sushi passes out free jello shots and beads. La Te Da Hotel, Restaurant, Cabaret and Bars; 1125 Duval Street; (305)296-6706; www.LaTeDa.com; FREE ADMISSION 21 22 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals ‘Pimp & Ho’ packs ‘em in “This is the party to be at,” said party organizer Louie C Rock. Adult movie star Ron Jeremy will be returning to host the Pimp and Ho party on Friday, Oct. 24 at Red Fish Blue Fish on Front Street. It’s an exotic dance party complete with a costume contest and $700 in prize money for the best pair of professional lovers. “We have a lot of husbandwife or boyfriend-girlfriend pairs that come to this party,” Rock said. “The costumes are fabulous and it’s just a lot of 801 BOURBON BAR TEA DANCE Friday, Oct. 24 at 1 p.m. 801 Bourbon Bar, 801 Duval St. Free fun overall because people really get into the theme. This is our fourth year.” The dancing starts at about 10 p.m., courtesy of some outrageous spinning by a company of very good DJs. The costume contest doesn’t go off until later, close to midnight. Guests are encouraged to buy their regular, VIP or Platinum VIP tickets ahead of time at www.keystix.com. For more information, call 305-304-1188. — Citizen Staff They’re dancing in the streets PIMP & HO PARTY • Friday, Oct. 24 at 10 p.m. Red Fish Blue Fish, 407 Front St. • tickets from Keystix.com Special Applies to Delivery Authentic Thai Food Join us for Lunch or Dinner and Enjoy Your Second Entrée (equal or lesser value) for Half Price. Also enjoy $2 domestic bottle beer and $2 glass of wine from 11–7. Located upstairs at the Garrison Bight Marina (305) 296—9189 www.thaiislandrestaurant.com 305053FF Open for Lunch Mon-Sat 11 - 3 Dinner Every Night 5 - 10 Drive at 200+ mph on the “Rock” in our Full Motion NASCAR Simulators Local and Military Discounts Open Late Every Night 218 Whitehead St. 305-269-8268 www.keywestspeedway.com 304442FF at Greene St. FILE PHOTO This pirate has our vote. Seriously, look again. Pirates swarm the Rum Barrel The 2008 Fantasy Fest theme is a perfect fit for the Rum Barrel Bar and Restaurant. After all, they do “pirate” all year long. The Rum Barrel’s event is set for Friday, Oct. 24, and party goers are invited to dress and drink like a pirate at a special party. “This is our second annual Pirate Bash and we’re really looking forward to recreating a fun party for both locals and tourists,” said organizer Jeff Sorg. “There’s going to be a big pirate costume competition and we’re giving away cash and other prizes.” The event is hosted by the Rum Barrel Restaurant and Bar and the Pirate Soul Museum next door. The party and costume contest will be staged on the Quarterdeck, an open-air patio on the second floor of the restaurant. Sorg said the costume contest breaks down into at least three categories — best pirate, best wench and best bilge rat. “The winner in the bilge rat category will have to have a pretty outrageous costume,” he said, “but it doesn’t have to be a pirate costume. The contest is open to everybody.” The night’s entertainment will be emceed by Bill Hoebee and the contest will be decided by a celebrity panel of judges. The music will be by well known DJ Taki. — Citizen Staff RUM BARREL PIRATE’S BASH Friday, Oct. 24 at 9 p.m. Rum Barrel, 528 Front St. Free admission The party starts early, at about 1 p.m., for the party at the 801 Bourbon Bar on Friday, Oct. 24. Officially, it’s a tea dance but it’s a serious booty shake in the middle of the street, jammin’ to DJ BRad’s beat. It’s also the unofficial end of the Masquerade March when the north and south routes dump their revelers in front of the 801. Local entertainer R.V. emcees the event from his high perch of the bucket of a cherry picker. “It’s the only place he’s safe,” joked Bourbon’s Bob Oberle. Extra scaffolding is erected for dancing boys who toss beads and other prizes to the crowds all the while Key West’s best perform live music and lip-sync to the favorites. — Citizen Staff Mania Continued from page 19 Second and third prize are almost as good. Runners up receive free hotel stays and bar tabs, among other prizes. Although the costume contest starts at about 4 p.m., the party begins earlier. The pool area of the Southernmost Hotel opens to the public at noon. Hotel staffers organize pool games, pour drinks and hand out freebies all day long. The party goes from hectic to crazy at about 6 p.m. when paraders on the Truman route of the Masquerade March come trooping through. “We’re a halfway point for the Masquerade March,” Babich said. “It’s fifteen minutes of chaos around here until the marchers leave again.” — Citizen Staff the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 23 Street Promenade shows off Key West’s talent This year’s Fantasy Fest 2008 Street Promenade will feature many of Key West’s finest talent with a variety of different music genres on two stages. Each stage will feature 45-minute acts beginning at 1 and ending at 4 p.m. “Key West is blessed with having a huge pool of local talent. We are very lucky to be able to show off this wonderful group of entertainers not only to our locals, but to our many Fantasy Fest visitors as well,” said Gordon Ross, Promenade entertainment coordinator. “The always popular Steel Your Heart Band, the Coffee Mill Cultural Centers African Dance enade begins at noon on Saturday, Oct. 25 when Duval Street is closed to car traffic. The Steel Two stages will be located Your Heart on Duval Street — the first Band is is located in the 600 block of just one of Duval Street. Featured enterthe many tainers on that dais include local groups dance groups from the Coffee playing in Mill Cultural Center, the Pan this year’s Band featuring local Key West Fantasy children, and talented local Fest promenade musician Steve Green playon Saturday, ing his guitar and crooning Oct. 25. “island style” music. The second stage, located Contributed in front of the Crowne Plaza DUVAL STREET PROMENADE • Saturday, Oct. 25 noon to 6 p.m. La Concha, is located in the Duval Street • Free admission 400 block of Duval Street. It will host The Steel Your Heart visitors. Each has its own type Band, which has an incredTroupe and the Paradise Big ible array of Keys West’s of music and all consist of Band are three fine, excepyoung and older musicians.” youngest musicians. Well tional groups of local talent The Saturday Street Prom– known for their steel drum entertaining our out of town numbers, this group always pulls a large crowd. The Paradise Big Band will follow with musical entertainment consisting of wonderful swing music that always gathers a huge and appreciative crowd and brings back memories of the “Big Band Era.” Also performing is the wonderful Christine Naughton, one of the islands most talented R&B entertainers and singers. (She’ll also throw in some jazz for good measure.) Naughton will be accompanied by Key West musicians Skipper Kripitz, Joe Dallas and Tim McAlpine. All entertainment begins at 1 p.m. with the last acts ending at 4 p.m. — Contributed Wyland Galleries host ‘Fantasy of Art’ event his misty, emotionally appealing images. His background includes animation on several Disney films, including “Beauty and the Beast” and “The Little Mermaid.” The remote vistas of his dreamscapes embody the romanticism of fantasies. The works of the above three artists are displayed at the 623 Duval Street location. Hawaii-based Walfrido, whose works are featured at 102 Duval Street, delights in painting the fantasy seascapes of his fertile imagination, John Pitre’s ‘Humanity’ using ocean caves and blazing sunsets to create his interpreFANTASY OF ART EXTRAVAGANZA tation of the seas he loves. Friday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. Wyland Galleries invites Wyland Galleries, 623 Duval St. art lovers to view the works and 102 Duval St. of these fantastic artists and to incorporate their artistic villains. fantasies into the revelry of John Pitre’s surrealistic images combine a basic spiri- “Pirates, Pundits, and Political Party Animals,” an apt theme tuality with social commenfor this election year. tary; his surrealistic images For more information, call have been an influence on American art for over 30 years 305-292-4998 or 305-294and are an outstanding exam- 5240, or visit www.wylandkeywest.com. ple of the Fantasy Fest aura. — Contributed Romantic Impressionist James Coleman is known for The South’s Wildest Party Band SCAREKROW EVERY NIGHT at 10PM 304949FF Wyland Galleries of Key West again invites Fantasy Fest revelers to immerse themselves in the annual exhibition of artistic fantasies presented by some of the world’s leading contemporary artists Friday, Oct. 24, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the galleries’ two Key West locations, 623 Duval Street and 102 Duval Street. The dreams and fantasies of Wyland family artists James Coleman, Jim Warren, John Pitre, and Walfrido will be among those featured at this event, a highlight of Key West’s Fantasy Fest celebration. From the imaginations and creative talents of these and other contemporary artists come images that combine surrealism, satire, and mysticism. Jim Warren lists among his many credits illustrations for scores of horror books and films. Many of his works hint of whimsy – a satirical interpretation of the nefarious deeds of fictitious heroes and Wednesday OCT 22nd Ladies’ Night Ladies drink FREE wells & drafts 9-11pm Sexy Bull Riding @Midnight • $250 in Prizes Thursday OCT 23rd Git-R 2nd Annual Pendleton Whisky Wet! $ Git-R-Wet T-Shirt Contest 1,000 1st Prize • MC’d by DJ Bill Hoebee VIP & General Admission Tickets Available at www.keystix.com Friday OCT 24th Body HOT P.I.N.K. Party! Painting Enjoy this PINK Themed Party & Raise Available Everyday! Money for the Fight against Breast Cancer. Call 896-3127 P.I.N.K. Panty Bull Riding @ Midnight for appointment 24 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals The Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade usually has about 70 floats and groups that meander along the route starting at 7 p.m. Give yourself plenty of time to find a place to view the parade. Many streets will be closed to vehicular traffic and the crowd will be dense, but jolly. FILE PHOTO Ahoy, mates! It’s the Captain Morgan Parade! Pirates, pundits and political party animals determined to fulfill their “civic duty” accompany the Fantasy Fest parade’s title sponsor, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, down Duval Street once again. Approximately 70 parade entries will pulse through more than 70,000 Fanfest Fans crowding the parade route from shore to shore on the night of Oct. 25. With this year’s parade theme, “Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals” will emerge from smoky chambers to set ablaze their own cam- own pace and I can’t turn the political tide. If you’re toward the end of the path, you’ll have to entertain yourself with the lame ducks, wenches, bull elephants and donkeys in the paign trail of fun. crowds near you until the real The linear lunacy starts at thing comes along.” the western end of Southard The Orlando-based Martin Street at 7 p.m. and loops down Whitehead Street Dive Club leads the procession every year since who to Front Street and then sweeps Duval in a knows when, carrying the Fantasy Fest parade banner. landslide of craziness. Behind them the Fantasy “It’s a wackiness you Fest King and Queen preside may have to wait for,” cauover the festivities from their tioned parade coordinator elevated corner of the uniJudi Bradford. “You can’t verse. Each year, a half a dozen hurry hilarity. The parade or so energetic individuals moves along the route at its CAPTAIN MORGAN FANTASY FEST PARADE • Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m. • Whitehead Street, Front Street and Duval Street Dottie, Alexis & Christopher Family owned & operated Now serving all the Florida Keys Call 292-DOGS (3647) 296-BATH (2284) 305054FF campaign to become King and Queen of Fantasy Fest. Winners are those who collect the highest donations for AIDS Help, a local non-profit group that cares for those stricken with AIDS. The parade coordinator is aided in moving the fantasies along the parade route by a corps of volunteer Madness Ambassadors, wearing shiny CD medallions. “They are the designated drivers of Fantasy Fest,” said Bradford, “That’s driver as in cattle driver — but we don’t let them carry prods.” They are charged with remaining sober and responsible and keeping the spectators out from under the wheels of fantasy. “We can’t do it without these people,” Bradford said. “Please thank them for their help. And follow their directions!” Madness Ambassadors are in contact with parade and enforcement officials and know the locations of fire and rescue units. The crowds along Duval Street, while dense and boisterous, are typically goodnatured and easy-going. The overwhelming masses flock to the 200 and 300 blocks of Duval. Upper Duval, above Truman Avenue, is mellower — but that’s relative — no promises are made. There are hundreds of barricades along most of the route to ensure that entrants have enough room to maneuver and entertain. City workers have to set them up ahead of the parade and then will be collecting them after the parade. It’s not an easy job, please be gracious when these hard-working souls appear. And always be careful around the barricades to avoid knocking them over or tripping. Sometimes that pollster suit hinders your line of vision, doesn’t it? Winners of the parade judging and the 2009 theme will be announced in the press Sunday, Oct. 26. — Contributed the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 25 PARADE SPONSOR YARRR Mates! Captain Morgan swashes his buckles back into Key West again for his sixth year as sponsor of the Fantasy Fest parade. He and his feisty Morganettes get the parade party started on their rolling square-rigged schooner float at the beginning of the wild and wacky procession. With the globetrotting schedule of a major celebrity and a social calendar rivaling that of some rock stars, the Captain is considered by millions of fans to be the world’s premier party pirate! With those credentials, Fantasy Fest is a natural addition to his itinerary, especially with this year’s theme bringing out all of his mad marauders. Around the world to Thailand and back, you can find the Captain on the ski slopes, at the Grammy Awards or the Olympics -- but you probably can’t keep up with him! The Captain always delivers a “taste” of his playfully irreverent lifestyle to rum lovers worldwide via his Web site www. rum.com. Captain Morgan has been a lively and enthusiastic supporter of Fantasy Fest for seven years, starting out as the title sponsor of the Masquerade March in 2002 when he was also Grand Marshal of the Saturday night parade. Captain Morgan is honored to have been invited to add a splash of his Original Spiced Fun to Fantasy Fest 2008. He urges everyone to remember to enjoy the party responsibly. Don’t drink until you’re 21. Captain’s orders! PARADE INFORMATION Parade viewing The Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade commences its wacky chug from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean at 7 p.m. While it may sometimes run like a political landslide, at other times it will be as slow as pirate ship stuck in doldrums. In other words, it does not start at 7 p.m. at all locations on the parade route. In fact, the parade is not known for its rapid transit to get to the end of its dreamy journey. Those near Front and Duval streets will see it coming around 7:45 p.m. and those in the blocks of upper Duval Street at approximately 8:30 p.m., give or take two hours. Those folks who wish to get home at a reasonable hour will find that, logically, the Southard Street/Whitehead Street portion of the parade route sees the parade pass by earlier. Make sure you park where you can get out if you plan to leave early. Upper Duval Street beyond Virginia Street is less congested than the downtown area, if some- one in your band of merrymakers is claustrophobic. The Courteous Conductors of the parade are the Parade Ambassadors who help deliver the mobile mirth to the stationery crowds. Please be nice to these volunteer officials and cooperate with their instructions. There will be barricades to ensure crowd safety and give the parade entrants room to perform. Please respect their intent. Wheelchair access A special area for wheelchair viewing of the 2008 Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade will be on Duval at Virginia Street. Handicapped-accessible parking and port-o-potty will be available at the Gato Building on Virginia and Simonton Streets. the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade. Information about festival activities, including maps of the Fairvilla Masquerade March, the Parade route and port-o-let locations, are available. The historical Heritage House will also provide the radio Madness Ambassador protocol The Madness Ambassadors Congested areas along the parade route will have barricades to keep spectators out from under the wheels of Fantasy and to allow the parade entrants room to perform. Please honor transmission link between the famed Madness Monitors. Prior to Friday, Oct. 24, call the Fantasy Fest office at 305-2961817 for festival updates. On Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25, call 305-304-8598 for more information. are a group of approximately 100 volunteer parade monitors who are stationed along the parade route to keep the spectators out from under the wheels of parade. These very special people stay sober on party night to be the designated drivers (in the sense of herders) of the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade. They have undergone training sessions for their job and are in radio contact with the parade coordinator and enforcement personnel. Please let them know we appreciate them. Smile at them, thank them and cooperate with their directions. Take Control of Your Finances! PAY OFF Your Mortgage and DEBT in as little as 1/3 to 1/2 the time Barricades FANTASY FEST HEADQUARTERS The center of the Fantasy Fest World has found its home for 2008. Graciously bringing you this year’s headquarters is the Heritage House, 410 Caroline St. It will serve as the center of operations during the Annual Street Fair, Duval Street Promenade and on through the intent of these devices, which are erected with safety in mind and be good sports when the city employees have to start setting them up before the parade and taking them down after. Give them an encouraging word as this is a challenging job. Particularly at the intersections where the parade turns, a wide leeway is needed. Please cooperate with parade ambassadors and enforcement personnel to provide a safe turning radius for parade vehicles. NO Refinancing of your Existing Mortgage NO Increase in your Monthly Payment ● NO Credit Check; NO Analysis Fee ● Little or NO Change to your current budget ● Not A Debt Consolidation or Bi Weekly Program ● Featured in Several Industry Publications ● ● Call NOW for your Free No Obligation Analysis 305-393-9123 Claire Murray, Independent Agent #915675 Results will vary and are determined by individual financial situations. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer or a solicitation to lend or extend credit. 304703FF 26 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 27 28 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals They’re dancing in the streets — Part Two On Saturday, Oct. 25, the Bourbon Street Complex hosts its second tea dance, hosted by local entertainer R.V. and special out-of-town talent Porche. The Bourbon Street Pub Tea Dance happens in the 700 block of Duval Street from noon until the street closes to make way for the Fantasy Fest parade. The talented dancers of Bourbon Street, dancing on a stage erected above the heads of the teeming crowd, will be dance to the beat of a DJ. As always, the tea in the street features lip syncing performances, dancing and bead throwing. “It’s our eleventh year of boys and booze,” said organizer Joey Schroeder. — Citizen Staff BOURBON STREET PUB TEA DANCE • Saturday, Oct. 25, noon to 6 p.m. • 700 Block of Duval Street • Free admission Fantasy Fest® is made possible by Sex Drive Energy Drink, Coca-Cola, Crowne Plaza La Concha, Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa, Sheraton Suites Key West, Spottswood Companies, The Westin Key West Resort & Marina, Key West Express Ask first! Please ask permission before snapping photos of other partygoers and practice festival etiquette by treating other people’s costumes (no matter how skimpy!) as works of art. Look and admire, but don’t touch or risk being turned into a politically incorrect loser. Street closures To accommodate the many street activities during the festival, several streets or part of streets are closed during festivities. On Saturday, Oct. 25, beginning at 10 a.m., the following streets will be closed: Duval Street is closed from Front Street to United Street. Front, Eaton, Angela streets and Truman Avenue are the only accessible cross streets. From 4 p.m. until the parade ends, Whitehead Street is closed from Angela Street to Front Street. Several parking lots will also be closed from 8 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25 until noon on Sunday, Oct. 26: the parking lot in the 500 block of Thomas Street and the parking lot in the 300 block of Fleming Street. Southard Street from Truman Annex to Simonton Street will also be closed. 305059FF PR I C ES 3340 N. ROOSEVELT BLVD. KEY WEST (NEXT TO WENDY’S) ZI NG MA NOW OPEN-F D C EALSI T S A T A AN UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP Don’t miss the Epidermal Arts contest FANTASY FEST TIPS 296-4343 What’s on the menu for the annual Epidermal Arts and Torso Tapestries Contest? “Oh, the usual ... Once again, the Green Parrot will be the bastion of good taste and culture,” said organizer John Vagnoni, tongue in cheek. Epidermal Arts and Torso Tapestries Contest is just a highbrow name for a painted body contest. But lovers of Key West art will gather for the “cultural” event on Saturday, Oct. 25. It’s a great place to get the party started, just steps off Duval Street where the parade passes later that same evening. Registration begins at 2 p.m. The contest of the Contributed The Green Parrot always hires the ‘baddest’ emcee in town to oversee its Epidermal Arts and Torso Tapestries contest. EPIDERMAL ARTS AND TORSO TAPESTRIES CONTEST Saturday, Oct. 25 at 3 p.m. Green Parrot Bar, corner of Whitehead and Southard streets • No cover emblazoned bods starts at 3 p.m. It will strive, Vagnoni said, to elevate the often crudely referred to “body painting” to something esthetic, creative, and yes, even poetic. From eyeliner to toenail polish, creativity counts toward valuable prizes and Green Parrot-style recognition. Later in the evening, Robert Albury brings his soul party to the Parrot stage. “Robert makes you feel thankful for his own energetic style of soul music,” Vagnoni said. “It’s guaranteed to keep you dancing and singing all night.” Admission is free. — Contributed BELINDA SERATA/Contributed Robbie’s Marina is a fun and funky little place located at Mile Marker 77. Part working marina, part natural attraction (definitely feed the free-swimming tarpon), the facility also has a restaurant and outdoor shopping. Stop at Robbie’s on the way home The Halfway Home BBQ Party is exactly what it says it is. After a week or weekend of partying in Key West, motorists are encouraged to pull off the Overseas Highway on their way home at Mile Marker 77 (on the gulfside near Islamorada) for an old-fashioned barbecue. Guests can load up a plate of succulent food and wander over to the waterfront overlooking the Tea Table bridges. “We have a little beach there set up with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables and a one-man band,” said organizer Annie Reckwerdt. “It’s a good place to just relax and eat.” Guests can also meander through a mini-fair complete with arts and craft vendors. And, for just a few dollars, visitors can experience one of the Keys’ unique thrills — hand-feeding huge tarpon fish off Robbie’s Marina docks. The party starts around 10 a.m. and lasts until the last guest has departed. In the meantime, party organizers will be handing out parting gifts — snorkel trips or professional fishing guide charters. “This place exudes a laidback atmosphere. You’re likely to find yourself in a rocking chair on the palm frond-shaded deck, sipping a cold beverage and discussing tides, fishing holes or even politics with any or several of the old timers who come here often just because Robbie’s takes them back to a simpler time,” Reckwerdt said. Please visit www.robbies. com or call 305-664-9814. — Contributed HALFWAY HOME BBQ Sunday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. Robbie’s Marina, MM 77.5 Free admission the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 29 Stop by for wine tasting at Parrotdise FILE PHOTO Children’s Day has it all — costume contests, games, rides and food. The kids also take over the stage, performing a variety of entertaining routines. On Sunday, kids get to have all the fun On the last day of Fantasy Fest, Sunday, Oct. 26, children play at an event just for them. Held at Bayview Park, Children’s Day is crammed with games, contests, food, rides and — above all else, fun. “Every booth is run by a charity organization,” said Ben McPherson. “And every year they try hard to make it fun and different. They sell good food, run fun games and give away great prizes.” McPherson said the organizations range from the Conchettes, Key West High School’s dance squad to churches and law enforcement. “Although most are run by people from different school programs. Everything goes to the children,” he said. In addition to the booths, Children’s Day will feature games, rides and carnival food. “This year we’re also going to have the giant inflatable slide, the Titanic, and the Gasparilla pirates are going to park their float at the festival for the kids to see,” he said. “And Keys Energy will bring out their cherry pickers and take people up for a pan- oramic view of the city.” The costume contest, broken into different age divisions, starts at about 12:30 p.m. The Children’s Day art contest winner will be announced and his or her work will appear on next year’s event T-shirts. Once again, the Waterfront Market will provide pumpkins for the weight-guessing challenge. Children’s Day has a few major sponsors that underwrite the whole event, allowing each charity manning a booth to take home the proceeds to fund its cause. Organizers anticipate about 70 booths selling food and running games. It is, McPherson stressed, a community event. “We’re also going to have performances by the Key West High School’s jazz band and a Tae Kwon Do demonstration,” McPherson said. The kids’ festival is from noon to five p.m. and admission is free. Tickets are sold at the booths. — Citizen Staff Drink and eat like a pirate at the Hyatt’s tasty brunch Enjoy complimentary mimosas and unlimited champagne the night after the big Fantasy Fest Parade. On Sunday, Oct. 26, the Hyatt will be hosting the Grog and Frog Pirates of the Sanctuary Brunch. The brunch is set to be held in the hotel’s newly remodeled restaurant — Shor American Seafood Grill. The menu is delectable and ranges from appetizers to a carving station to grilled offerings and a fabulous dessert menu. The largesse will start at 10 a.m. and the last seating will be at 2 p.m. The brunch costs $37.50 per adult. Pirates 12 and under are half fare. CHILDREN’S DAY Sunday, Oct 26 from noon to 5 p.m. • Bayview Park, corner of Truman Ave. and Jose Marti Drive • Admission is free GROG AND FROG PIRATES BRUNCH • Sunday, Oct. 26 at 10 a.m. • Hyatt Resort, 601 Front St. • $37.50 Big Pecker Wine was so named after the bill of a bird, like a parrot’s. The idea of a Keys wine came to the Leeman family as they were sitting around the dinner table. “This wine was conceived in the Keys at Parrotdise Waterfront Bar and Grille on Little Torch Key,” said “Keb” Leeman. “The wine was designed for warm weather and to be paired with tropical food.” The perfect time to have a free taste of this Keysy wine is on Sunday, Oct. 26 at the Official Big Pecker Wine Testing hosted by Parrotdise. The event goes on all day and into the night from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Guests are encouraged to try the wine, perhaps pairing it with one of the delicious entrees at Parrotdise. “Also, throughout the day we’re going to be selling all of our merchandise at 50 percent off the regular price,” Leeman said. — Citizen Staff OFFICIAL BIG PECKER WINE TASTING • Sunday, Oct. 26 from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. • Parrotdise Waterfront Bar and Grille, Mile Marker 28.5, gulfside 300815 30 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals Fantasy Fest® is brought to you by Crowne Plaza La Concha, Pier House Resort and Caribbean Spa, Parrot Key Resort, Spottswood Companies, The Westin Key West Resort & Marina, Parrot Key Resort, Vox Communications, Big Pecker Wines, Coca-Cola, Casa Marina, Club Zu, Dante’s Restaurant, Southernmost Hotel Collection, Sunshine Rentals, Sex Drive Energy Drink, Bare Necessities Tour & Travel, Too Much Fun Key West It ain’t over ‘til the fat lady sings The best part of attending the Fat Lady Sings Tea Dance party is being witness to the surprise. The “fat lady” is a closely guarded secret by party organizers at La Te Da. “Last year we had drag queen Gassy Winds dressed in a ‘fat suit.’ So, you never know exactly who it’s going to be,” said organizer L.J. Cicero, hinting at the headliner for one of Fantasy Fest’s last events. “This tea is traditionally Jello shots. the ‘swan song’ of Fantasy “We’ll also be giving away Fest,” said Mark Barauck, “where everyone comes beads and other party favors,” Cisero said. together for one last — Citizen party.” Staff Last year the place was jam-packed, clearly showing that Fantasy Fest doesn’t end on Sunday morning. “We had hundreds of people here,” Cicero said. Historically, the party draws THE FAT LADY SINGS TEA DANCE hundreds of dancing patrons Sunday, Oct. 26 • La Te Da, parted only by patrolling drag 1125 Duval St. • No cover queens passing out FANTASY FEST SPONSORS Bare Necessities Bare Necessities has launched upscale, clothes-free cruise vacations since 1990, sailing to exotic ports throughout the world with lines such as Holland America, Carnival and Celebrity cruises. The company’s new FantaSea cruise on Carnival’s Miracle sails into Key West on Oct. 30, 2009 for two days and nights for Fantasy Fest 2009! Additional ports of call will include Cancun for “Day of the Dead” festivities, Nassau and Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas. Visit www.cruisenude.com or come by our booth on the 100 block between Front and Greene streets during Fantasy Fest 2008, for fun giveaways and a chance to win a cabin on our 2009 FantaSea cruise! Beachside Resort & Tavern N Town Restaurant Nowhere on Key West will the spirit of Fantasy Fest be more alive than Beachside Resort & Conference Center, the island’s newest luxury resort. Plan to reserve one of their sumptuous one, two or three bedroom suites, and while you’re there, be sure to enjoy a taste of the most unique dining experience on the island — Tavern N Town. Soak up some rays at Beachside’s private 289170 MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE 20% OFF! Allen & Megan In honor of “Doc” David Taylor Mertstock, Owners 10935 Overseas Highway • Marathon 305-289-INK1 (4651) docstattooz@hotmail.com • myspace.com/docstattooz Tropical Clothing •Jewelry •Crocs •Hand Painted Purse •Tervis Tumblers •Consignment Treasures 305-296-7677 3201 Flagler Ave. 304980FF Great Selection! Excellent Prices for all your Fantasy Needs! 304700FF tanning beach or relax by the pool at Blue Bar with a special Fantasy Fest cocktail. So come... sit and savor the best that Key West has to offer at Beachside Resort during this year’s Fantasy Fest. Call 305-296-8100 or 800-546-0885 now to book your room at Beachside, or for your lunch or dinner reservations at Tavern N Town. Visit www.beachsidekeywest. com for more information. Casa Marina Resort The Casa Marina Resort & Beach Club is proud to be a premier sponsor of Fantasy Fest 2008. Opened New Year’s Eve in 1920, Casa Marina is perfect blend of historical Key West and contemporary luxury. Located on 1,100 feet of private beach, the resort offers newly renovated ocean view rooms that open onto private balconies. This resort has attracted business tycoons, dignitaries and artists for almost a century. Club Zü Club Zü (www.clubzu.com) offers the hottest, sexually charged atmosphere in Key West, designed for your fantasy and pleasure. You will find us Applerouth Lane, across from Virgilio’s. Our doors are open to all, and we are dedicated to provide a safe, non-pressure environment for like-minded people to meet, mingle and enjoy this alternative lifestyle. Zü promotes a secure environment to relax and have fun with old and new friends. Whether you come in to dance, be social, have a few drinks or you’re just ready to be a little more adventurous in this erotic themed environment; Zü is the place for you! the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 31 FANTASY FEST SPONSORS Comcast Comcast Cable Company has once again become a generous sponsor for Fantasy Fest 2008. “Comcast is continually committed to being involved in the community and making a difference,” said Jeanie Lyz Hernandez, area director. “Our success stems from the success of the community and we love being part of a festival that benefits so many of Key West’s not-for-profit organizations.” Stay in the loop and be among the first on the block to learn about special offers and hot new services from Comcast. Get smart about cable services and shop for the right deal online at www.comcast.com. For updates and crazy coverage of all the extravagant events check your local Comcast channels. Sex Drive at the tent in front of Sloppy Joe’s will be donated to local charities, said company president Jim Spreitzer. Sex Drive Energy Drink is the energy drink of choice at the local non-profit beverage booths along Duval Street during Fantasy Fest and many other local establishments such as Conch Republic Liquors, Club Zu, Mango’s, Citgo and 801 Bourbon to name a few. In the meantime, turn on your drink with Sex Drive Energy Drink. Official Soft Drink Once again, Coca-Cola has become the official soft drink sponsor for Fantasy Fest 2008. Sticking with Coca-Cola’s mission to refresh the world — mind, body and spirit — it is helping to inspire moments of optimism at Fantasy Fest. Official Brew “We love being a continual part Cheers to Bud Light as the official of the festivities,” said Carl Skapetis, beer of Fantasy Fest 2008! Pirates sales center manager. “Coca Cola’s and Party Animals that choose to innovative values are to ‘seek, imagimbibe responsibly will enjoy the ine, create and delight’ and we think tasty, delight of Bud Light, because those values fit perfectly with the it’s “Always Worth It.” atmosphere generated at Fantasy Eagle Distributors, LTD., a valued Fest.” and valiant returning sponsor located For all your soft drinks, PowerAde at 2600 North Roosevelt Boulevard, and Dasani Water think Coca-Cola. brings us Bud Light as this year’s new You will find these thirst quenchbrew and official beer sponsor. ing products available at all vendor Bud Light is the beer of choice at booths during the Street Fair and the local non-profit beverage booths Promenade and at all major stores lining Duval Street. Pour a cold one nationwide. and raise your glass with Bud Light or any of the other fine Anheuser-Busch Official Wine The Official Wine of Fantasy Fest products. 2008 is Big Pecker — conceived at Open containers are permitted within the boundaries of the Fantasy Parrotdise Waterfront Bar & Grill on Fest Fun Zone. Please use paper or plastic cups only, no cans or glass containers. Eagle Distributors reminds you to drink responsibly, designate a driver and enjoy the festivities! Official Energy Drink If you are like us, you just can’t stop thinking about Sex Drive during Fantasy Fest! Fantasy Fest 2008 will be the ultimate party, an escape from reality… admittedly filled with endless days and nights of wandering Duval Street in search of the perfect party to find yourself knee deep in Sand, Sun and Sex Drive. “It starts with the name,” says CEO and founder Steve Utley. The Sex Drive Energy Drink, home grown in Key West, is the Official Energy Drink of Fantasy Fest 2008. All proceeds from the sale of Little Torch Key, Mile Marker 28.5. Big Pecker Wine is the official wine of the Florida Keys. Both the cabernet sauvignon and the chardonnay are medal winners at the California State Fair. They are produced by acclaimed California winemaker Ryan Leeman in Lodi, California. He is the son of Keb Leeman the proprietor of Parrotdise Waterfront Bar & Grill. The wines are sold nationwide through a network of distributors. For more information on wines, visit www.bigpeckerwines.com or for information on waterfront dining in the Keys, visit www.parrotdisewaterfront. com. Parrot Key Resort Looking for the ultimate luxury destination in Key West? The new Parrot Key Resort (www.parrotkeyresort.com) immerses guests in a vacation experience unlike any other. With meticulous attention to detail, quality and style, Parrot Key is unmatched as an island retreat with beautifully appointed, one-, two- and three-bedroom, three-story waterfront vacation homes that “breathe the Keys.” Guests enjoy sophisticated interior design, breathtaking landscaping and first-class amenities including a white sand sunbathing terrace, four tropical swimming pools and poolside Café Blue and Tiki Bar. Southernmost Hotel Collection Southernmost Hotel Collection is a simple, yet sophisticated choice for your quest of a Key West hotel. Whether you choose La Mer Hotel & Dewey House, our intimate fourdiamond oceanfront boutique hotels; the all-new Southernmost on the Beach with 127 rooms with endless views of the sea and sky; or the laid –back ambiance at Southernmost Hotel on Duval Street.; you’ll rest easy knowing each hotel is unique and uniquely Southernmost. Southernmost Beach Cafe is adjacent to the Southernmost Hotel Collection and offers oceanfront dining and a venue for the perfect Key West beach wedding or corporate event. From breathtaking Key West beachfronts to quiet and charming environs, we have your Key West vacation covered. Visit www.southernmostresorts.com Too Much Fun Key West Welcome to Too Much Fun Key West, a fun-filled and totally free service for all your vacation needs. We offer accommodations in private vacation homes, luxury beachfront resorts or bed and breakfast inns. Our free service includes world-class fishing, snorkeling, parasailing, jet ski tours, dolphin trips and beautiful sunset dinner cruises. You can give us your wish list or let us design an itinerary of fun just for you. We look forward to meeting you so please send an e-mail toomuchfunkw@aol. com, visit our 7-Day No Brainer Plan at www.toomuchfunkeywest.com or give us a call at 305-587-9600. Sincerely yours — Anne, Brian, Tara and Tracy, Key West Funmeisters at your service. US-1 Radio & 98.7 Conch Country US-1 Radio has been the number one radio station in the Florida Keys since 1989, for one good reason. They are part of the community. If it’s happening in the Keys, you’ll hear about it on US-1 Radio. Bill Becker’s Morning Magazine and the US-1 Radio News Network keep the Keys informed, and they are your official Hurricane information station. Six days a week, they open the airwaves to you with Biz Baz (Bizarre Bazaar), a two-hour show where they help you buy, sell and trade your stuff. 98.7 Conch Country is the Southernmost Country Station in the Nation and the Key’s new number one station for today’s country and the legends. With Big D and Bubba in the morning, 10 songs in a row every hour during the day, and the resources of the US-1 Radio News Network all day long, 98.7 Conch Country is the fastest growing station in the Florida Keys. Westin Key West Resort & Marina The Westin Key West Resort & Marina, a premier sponsor, is in the heart of “Old Town” Key West, Florida. The spectacular waterfront setting is situated next to Mallory Square and within walking distance of famous Duval Street. Step out the front door and stroll along the waterfront promenade that is lined with charming boutiques and cafés. The Westin’s Sunset Pier is the perfect place to enjoy the stunning sunsets and live entertainment that is almost as much fun as finding buried treasure. Make Tonight… The Night! Better Than Sex A DESSERT RESTAURANT TM 411 Petronia Street (just off Duval) 305-296-8102 301536FF 32 the Citizen’s guide to pirates, pundits & political party animals 304961 FF