MCTCU-8658 Culture 2014 Cover LO3

CultureThe Florida Keys & Key West 2014

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“A Thousand Ways to Look at a Bird” by Mark Hedden ................................................................................ 3-5

“The Art of Dining in The Keys” by Margit Bisztray ..................................................................................... 6-8

Calendar of Events ..................................................................................................................................... 9-15

Fabulous Florida Keys!

So many things to do and see... much is said of our wonderful island cuisine, fishing, diving, sails and nightlife, however, our cultural and environmental history is unrivaled. Flagler, Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Audubon, Rachel Carlson, architecture, Everglades, The Reef ... absolutely too much to list.

Enjoy your stay and don't miss everything we have to offer from Key Largo to Key West and all points in between. You'll surely have to come back!

fla-keys.com ~ 1-800-FLA-KEYSMayor George Neugent

I have always been a creative person but twenty five years ago I had a health scare

that changed how I looked at my life and what my goals and desires are while I was here. I was told I did not have much time so I started studying and creating with a fury because I wanted to leave something behind. I have reached that goal and surpassed anything I could have ever dreamed....thousands of paintings later, I am still here and paint with the same fury as I did in the beginning of this journey.

I presently live in Key West where its light and colors inspire me and my work. I am represented by Cocco and Salem Gallery here on the Island located on Duval Street. I try to do a show once a year and it takes the whole year to create. My goal is to push my abilities and ideas each year. I want people to come see these shows and think “Yes...this is different. He is trying something new.” Each show is created by a thread of a thought. I want all the paintings to connect in color, composition, subject, a cohesive body of work; narrative of thoughts and images that inspired me. I must say I am so grateful for the health scare. Some people need to be pushed, or hit over the head to be put on the right path. This was my push, or wake up call and I listened. It was a gift that I cherish and acknowledge every day.

“Purple Door” by Kathleen Denis

“Seven Mile Bridge at Pigeon Key” by Noel Skiba

“Dappled Lane” by Mike Rooney

“No. 2” by Julie A. Smiley

“Down The Creek” by John David Hawver

In This Issue:

About the Cover Artist SeAn P. CAllAhAn

“Coming Up” by Peter Vey “Wading” by David Ruhe

“Bottle Wall House” by AROSE “Greenie” by Kim Workman aka Kimian

A Thousand

Ways to Look at

a Birdby Mark Hedden

Title of cover art: "THE GIVING TREE"

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islands that dot the shallow waters north of Key Largo and Islamorada. His mission was to study the ways of the strange, pink, dinosaur-like Roseate Spoonbill, not just out of curiosity and admiration, but because the species’ population, largely due to plumage hunting and egg gathering, had crashed to an estimated 25 breeding pairs, 15 of which were located in the Keys. During his time in the backcountry, Porter Allen confronted mud, mosquitoes, storms, raccoons and poachers, trying to understand the birds and to figure out ways to save them. His book “The Flame Birds” documents his discoveries about spoonbills, but it is also a great adventure story – a thoughtful, rye, clear-eyed time capsule of life in the Keys in a different time.

Robert Porter Allen also co-founded the Audubon Tavernier Science Center, whose staff continues to study and help protect the species 75 years later. In the winter of 2013, an estimated 200 pairs of spoonbills nested in the Florida Bay. The species is not out of danger, but its status is greatly improved, thanks in no small part to Porter Allen’s foundational work.

In modern times, the artist and naturalist working most closely to the “drawn from life” tradition that Audubon pioneered is Rafael Galvez.

Galvez, who divides his time between painting birds in the Everglades and the Florida Keys, is known to many as the director of the Florida Keys Hawkwatch at Curry Hammock State Park on Grassy Key. The Hawkwatch project counts the thousands of birds of prey that migrate through the island chain every fall as a way to monitor the health of their populations. Chief amongst the migrants is the Peregrine Falcon, the fastest animal on the planet, which can hit speeds of up to 200 miles per hour. The Peregrine Falcon was wiped out east of the Mississippi in the 1970s, but has come back strong. Last year, Galvez and his crew counted 3,836 Peregrines migrating through the Keys, more than any other place in the world.

In addition to Peregrine Falcons, there are about 10 other species of birds of prey that migrate south through the Keys, including the ghostly and slow-moving Northern Harrier, the tiny and pugnacious Merlin, the rare-outside-of-Florida short-tailed Hawk, the long-tailed swallow-tailed Kite, and the short-winged sneak-thief Cooper’s Hawk. Galvez and his crew make an effort to count each one that goes by, and while at first the raptors can seem like incomprehensible shapes in the sky, after a few hours of watching hawks at the count, most people get the hang of it.

In Galvez’s artistic life, he is midway through a book depicting the birds of South Florida and how they relate to their natural habitat, a project nearly as epic as Audubon’s “Birds of America.” Where Audubon went broad, though, Galvez is going deep, painting finely detailed images in gouache and watercolor that show not only the birds in highly realistic glory, but also meticulous depictions of the landscapes where the birds feed, roost and nest. His knowledge of these birds comes from hours and hours of acute observation in the field.

Not all artists aim for such high realism when they incorporate birds into their work.

In the Florida Keys there is land, there is water, and there is sky. And if you are looking for creatures that can inhabit all three spheres, there are only the birds.

About 275 different species of birds have been seen in the Keys, and there are a thousand different ways to look at each of them.

Artists have known this from the beginning.

One of the first was John James Audubon who came here in 1832 to paint the birds that don’t exist anywhere else in North America. According to his journals, he had a number of adventures at a time when the Keys were still a mysterious and sparsely populated place. He also worked like a demon with brush and pencil, producing the stacks of paintings and sketches that would be used as the base art for at least 19 of the plates in his monumental “Birds of America.” Among the birds he depicted were the Roseate Spoonbill, the White Ibis, the American Flamingo, and the Man of War Bird (now called the Magnificent Frigatebird).

Reflecting in his journals on what it was like to see a massive, black-plumed frigatebird, with its hooked bill and seven-foot wingspan, fly low over the water to snatch flying fish out of the air, he wrote “Sights like this you may see every day, if you take ship and sail for the Florida Keys.”

In 1939, the writer and naturalist Robert Porter Allen moved his family to Tavernier, in the Florida Keys. He then took a boat and disappeared into the backcountry of Florida Bay, exploring the unpopulated (at least by humans) mangrove

The "Frigate Pelican" from John James Audubon's pioneering work, "Birds of America." The species is now called the Magnificent Frigatebird

and can be seen commonly in the Keys.

constructed out of large, rough-hewn, torch-cut steel plates, has repeatedly created neo-primitive likenesses of birds that are elemental in origin, undefined by species, and rumbling with subtext.

Photographer Carol Munder creates mysterious, monochromatic gravure prints, primarily the figures and vessels of lost civilizations. Her recent works have begun to use bird imagery. The most marked of them, entitled “Ashes,” contains the barely discernible figure of a Barn Swallow, a species that can be found almost anywhere on the planet, and a species that migrates by the hundreds of thousands through the Florida Keys each fall. In Munder’s image, the bird hangs just above a delicate, translucent vase, a winged messenger from an unknown place, all grace and possibility.

Jeannine Bean, a long-time denizen of Islamorada and a stalwart of the Purple Isles Art Guild, aims towards graphic drama in her depictions. Her painting “Mangrove Great Red” is a portrait of a Reddish Egret with head plumage reminiscent of a lion’s mane and an eye that does not quite trust the viewer. Her “Pelican Dance Mask” is an abstract of colors and shapes evocative of a textile pattern.

A painter like Marathon-based Rocky Ferris shows loose, spontaneous depictions of the small moments in birdlife that could go unnoticed – a tern loafing on a piece of driftwood, a pelican falling from the sky in a way that might look like a tragic metaphor if you did not know that is how pelicans feed. Key West-based sculptor Jane Grannis works in clay to create textured, wind-swept worlds. In one, a lone regal Great White Heron stands in solitude. In another, a Magnificent Frigatebird hovers alone in an infinite sky.

Several artists are captivated by the free-roaming, domestic-bird-gone-feral, the Key West rooster. Peter Vey paints them as moody stoics in his weighty signature style of rough-surfaced oil paint. Conch legend Andy Thurber (a Conch is someone born on the island) portrays his roosters as long-legged punctuation marks in his watercolors and woodcarvings. (The strutting birds are omnipresent interlopers in his sly, corner-of-the-eye Key West street scenes.) The late Jeff MacNelly, who created the comic strip “Shoe,” painted the male chicken as a cross-dressing, statuesque, slightly intimidating diva in his full-sized portrait entitled “Dragster.”

There are also artists that have a more modernist take on birdlife. The sculptor John Martini, whose works are primarily

Mark Hedden is a writer and birding

guide who lives in Key West. He writes about wildlife and the Florida Keys for several national publications and at www.boneisland.com.

About the Author: MArk hedden "Rooster," oil on canvas by Peter Vey.

"Dragster," oil on canvas by Jeff MacNelly.

"Thalia the Great," steel sculpture by John Martini.

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The conversation between art forms takes place all the time, but it seems especially spirited in the Florida Keys. Perhaps it’s due to the isolated geography where everyone, including artists, co-exists closely, or the landscape, where it’s hard to discern the boundaries between land, sea and sky. Whatever the explanation, art in the Keys is a fluid entity and “multi-media” expressions are the norm. An average variety show might include classical ballet, torch singers, capoeira and burlesque, while a monthly art walk in Key West or Islamorada might showcase the likes of beading, circus performances, airbrushing and haiku, alongside more traditional expressions like painting and sculpture.

But most ubiquitous––whether as refreshment between acts, or starring on its own––is the art of cuisine. Food and drink in the Florida Keys enhance not only the enjoyment of other arts (say, a mango daiquiri sipped while listening to reggae on the waterfront) but create a sensory experience worthy of its own appraisal.

Numerous festivals celebrate the bounty of local waters, including the Key Largo Crab & Seafood Festival, the Marathon Seafood Festival, and Key West Lobsterfest. All incorporate concerts, street fairs, and children’s activities like

The Art of dining in The keys

by Margit Bisztray

Dining hits a high note at Atlantic’s Edge restaurant at the Cheeca Lodge. Photo Courtesy of Cheeca Lodge & Spa.

Fresh stone crab claws, framed by the Little Palm Island shoreline.Photo Credit: Chris Davis

Live music draws revelers to rustic outdoor fish shacks throughout the Keys (like Snappers in Key Largo, The Wharf Bar & Grill in Summerland, and Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West). In some cases, sound and taste harmonize further when music and cuisine fuse. Bill Wharton, a.k.a. The Sauce Boss, plays slide guitar blues while building gumbo

at Margaritaville, Duval Street, and Barry Cuda & Mick Kilgos prepare the likes of shrimp Vera Cruz or chicken fricassee between sets of Afro-Cuban jazz and R&B at Hogfish Bar & Grill, Stock Island.

For some travelers, the pleasure of a fried seafood basket and a cold beer while staring at the Gulf of Mexico satisfies the senses more completely than any poem or orchestra.

Even without other diversions, or a context wider than its table, Keys cuisine stands alone as a creative entity. A classic Florida Keys dish expresses the flavor of its setting––whether salty water, tart citrus, or honey––and also encapsulates in some way

the story of this area. Cuban food, whether ropa vieja from Denny’s Latin Café in Key Largo, paella Valenciana from El Siboney, Key West, or a café con leche from any Cuban coffee stand, speaks of the history and culture of this nearest-neighbor island and the enormous cultural influence it exerts. Cuban folk artist Mario Sanchez’s works often depict the island fare of 1950s Key West, including fruit vendors, fish markets and cafés.

face painting for a multi-media experience. Of the Marathon event, Tina Hagar of the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce says, “While local Florida Keys seafood is the main attraction… we recognize that local artists and musical entertainers are a major part of our Florida Keys culture. Part of the attraction of the Marathon Seafood Festival is how we encompass all aspects of our beautiful culture through art, song, and food!”

The Key West Food & Wine Festival celebrates the culinary arts within the context of the unique Key West community. “Imagine sipping cold Sauvignon Blanc while tasting fresh stone crabs and listening to traditional Cuban guitar music at our Grand Tasting in the Historical Key West Aquarium,” says event director Mark Certonio. “Or dancing all night at the ‘Let Them Eat Cake’ French masquerade…This is how we party in Key West at our local festival.”

All restaurant owners appreciate that the setting reinforces what’s on the plate, and to this effect many Keys restaurants showcase local art to visually “season” a meal. The coastal scenes framed in old lobster traps at Ma’s Fish Camp in Islamorada, painter Lynn Sherman’s Old Town Cottages at Butterfly Café in Marathon, and the diverse works at Key West’s eclectic eatery Camille’s are but a few. Antonia’s on Duval Street even commissions a “portrait” of the restaurant by a different artist each year, including Jon Macintosh and William Welch.

Mahi made by Chef Dan Harris at Green Turtle Inn, located in Islamorada, in The Florida Keys. Photo Courtesy of The Florida Keys & Key West, Monroe County Tourist Development Council.

Artisan honey paints a picture in the window of Salt Provisions. Photo Credit: Salt Island Provisions

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All phone numbers are area code 305 unless otherwise noted.

“Looking for Lunch” by Cris Sandifer

“Lost Alley” by Genevieve Sabatier

“Islamorada Fish Hawk” by T. Borski

“Late Afternoon” by Alan S. Maltz

FeSTIVAlS & FUndrAISerSOctober 18 & 19 Goombay Street FestivalIsland arts and crafts, music and food in the heart of Key West’s historic Bahama Village.www.bahamavillagegoombay.com

October 18-27 Fantasy Fest 2013 Super heroes, Villains & BeyondNow in its 3rd decade. Celebrity Look-A-Like Contest, Street Fairs, Pet Masquerade and Fantasy Fest Parade. Various times and locations in Key West. www.fantasyfest.com

October 21 Brazarr – Womankind Fundraiser decorated Bra Auction.6 p.m.-9 p.m. Casa Marina Resort, 1500 Reynolds St. Contact Kim Romano. 320-0607. www.womankindkeywest.com

October 22 headdress Ball 2013 “Bizarro Key West” 31st annual benefit for AIDS Help. 8 p.m. Southernmost Hotel on the Beach, 508 South St. Key West.www.keystix.com

October 26 Screaming Green halloween10 a.m.-2 p.m. Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd. 296-1504. www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org

October 30-november 3 Meeting of the Minds: Parrot heads in key West “Bring Back the Magic”Various times and locations in Key West. www.phip.com

november 1 & 2 Season Opening Variety ShowMarathon Community Theatre Fundraiser. 5101 Overseas Hwy., MM 49.5.743-0408. www.marathontheater.org

november 2-december 31 key West “Bight Before Christmas holiday Celebration” Exhibitions and receptions at galleries and shops, Key West Historic Seaport.www.keywestchristmas.org

november 13-17 key West 2nd Annual Film Festival Featuring screenings and special events hosted at landmark venues throughout Key West.www.keywestfilmfestival.com

november 29-december 25 MArC house Fundraiser Christmas Tree Sale 9 a.m. Benefits MARC House programs. 1401 Seminary St. 294-9526x25. www.marchouse.org.

december MArC house Fundraiser decorated Christmas Tree Benefit7 p.m. Westin Hotel, 245 Front St. 294-9526x25. www.marchouse.org

december 7 City of key West Christmas Parade 7 p.m. Starting at Truman Ave. and White St., then proceeding down Duval St. and ending at Eaton St. december 14 Waterfront Playhouse FundraiserTBA. Private Home.www.keystix.com

december 14th Schooner Wharf lighted Boat Parade8 p.m. 202 William St., Key West. schoonerwb@aol.com

december 14 key largo holiday lighted Boat Parade 7:30 p.m. Blackwater Sound, MM104. 394-3736. www.keylargoboatparade.com

december 31 new Year’s eve CelebrationsFireworks. Watch the Conch Shell, the Drag Queen or the Pirate Wench drop. www.keywestchamber.org

January 10-11 Florida keys Celtic Festival 4 p.m. and 8 a.m. Marathon Community Park, MM49, Oceanside. 743-6412. www.celticheritageproductions.com

January 10-19 Uncorked – key largo & Islamorada Food & Wine FestivalVarious times & venues. www.floridakeysuncorked.com

January 18 Friends of Old Seven Costume Ball 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Celebrating the 102nd Anniversary of the Flagler Old Seven Bridge to Pigeon Key. Auctions and Live Entertainment. Marathon Yacht Club, 825 33rd St. www.friendsofoldseven.org

January 18-19 Florida keys Seafood Festival11 a.m. Family-friendly, fresh seafood, marine-related crafts, youth activities and live music. Free admission. Bayview Park, Truman & Jose Marti Dr., Key West. 872-9026. www.fkcfa.org.

January 19 Baygrass Bluegrass 2nd Annual Festival11 a.m. Featuring old and new Bluegrass bands. Free admission. Founders Park, MM87, Bayside, Islamorada. 395-6344. www.keysice.com

January 22-26 key West Food & Wine Festival 2014 Various times and locations in Key West. info@keywestfoodandwinefestival.com www.kwfwf.com

January 26 MArC house Fundraiser Master Chefs 19th Annual Classic 4 p.m. At the Westin Resort & Marina, 245 Front St., Key West.294-9526. www.marchouse.org

Calendar Executive Chef Luis Pous’ daily ceviches of local seafood, lime juice and Peruvian peppers at Little Palm Island off Little Torch Key speak of yet another period of history, when Florida and its islands were ports on the trade routes between North and South America. On a private beach steps from the luxury suites, the dish also speaks of the development of these parts from an unwelcoming wilderness to a world-famous tourist destination. What were once mosquito-infested mangroves with no fresh water or climate control are now comfortable retreats offering indulgences like raw oysters and French champagne. As such, Little Palm Island ceviche is not only interesting and beautiful, but something of a miracle.

Fine dining in the Keys––whether upscale Latin at Alma at Hawk’s Cay Resort, American seafood and steaks at Atlantic’s Edge at the Cheeca Lodge, Islamorada, or the New World/“Floribbean” creations of chef Susan Ferry at Café Marquesa or chef Douglas Shook at Louie’s Backyard, both in Key West––is more than meets the standards of its counterparts elsewhere. Like all top-level restaurants, these demonstrate quality ingredients, mastery in the kitchen, and elegant flourishes like fresh flowers and crystal stemware. What sets them apart is that indelible magic of the Keys.

Margit Bisztray has lived and written

professionally in Key West since 1994. She produces the annual Complete Key West Insider Guide book and app, as well as writing for magazines both national and local. She is also the writer and host of Margit's Top Five and other dining programming on Key TV.

In addition to writing, she enjoys yoga and cooking with her family.

About the Author: MArGIT BISZTrAY

Swordfish from Kaya Restaurant in Key West. Photo Credit: Shawn Horton

© 2013 Monroe County Commission. All Rights Reserved.Event listings are for use as a guide in contacting event coordinator and receiving information on event dates, times and locations. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, but verification of information should be made when planning to attend these events. Dates, times and locations are subject to change. Neither

the Monroe County Commission, Monroe County Tourist Development Council, nor their agency may be held liable for incorrect information, errors or omissions. For the most up-to-date information on cultural events in The Florida Keys, visit us at fla-keys.com/calendarofevents.

of Cultural events

OCTOBer 2013 – SePTeMBer 2014

Every year, the owners of Antonia’s restaurant commission a “portrait” of the restaurant by a different local artist. Depicted here, Antonia’s by Jon Macintosh.

Fine dining is one step above itself when a great white heron soars overhead, a dolphin surfaces nearby, or the sunset afterglow gilds a slate patio.

As Keys cuisine evolves, and modern preferences seep this far south, more and more “artisan” food choices emerge here in the Keys as well. At M.E.A.T. Eatery and Tap Room in Islamorada, chef-owner George Patti cures bacon and stuffs handmade sausages, as well as mixes condiments from scratch. Two businesses in Key West, Cole’s Peace and Old Town Bakery, produce breads worthy of the finest Old World bakeries, including sourdoughs and pastries. Specialty ingredients, like sea salt; honey harvested in Key Largo and Big Pine Key; and smoked fish dips like Smilin’ Bob’s available at all major grocery stores, are also gaining wider appreciation.

It is impossible to write about refreshments in the Keys without including beverages. Have your Key lime pie and drink it too, with a Key lime pie martini at Marker 88 in Islamorada, or Michaels in Key West. Follow in Hemingway’s footsteps with a cocktail at Captain Tony’s, or Tennessee Williams’ at the Southernmost Beach Café, overlooking the playwright’s favorite beach. At the 2013 Key West Literary Seminar, cocktails drew inspiration from author Graham Greene, including the “Aunt Augusta” with local calamondin marmalade as one ingredient.

Want a taste of Florida Keys culture? Then drink and eat it up while you’re here.

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“Wonderful Journey” by Lisa Jill Allison

“Paradise Found” by Cecilia Lueza

“A Cobra and a Flying Crow” by Elizabeth Vitale

“Florida Keys Study 3” by Sandra Canning All phone numbers are area code 305 unless otherwise noted.

“Brown Pelican Evening” by Jim Salem

“Quiet, Still, at Sunset” by Sherry Sweet Tewell

“Gingerbread” by Dwight Hoffman

“Monet Relaxation” by Carol Ellis

February 2 Waterfront Playhouse FundraiserTBA. Private Home. www.keystix.com

February 8 Speakeasy – The Studios of key West GalaTBA. The Studios of Key West, 600 White St.296-0458. www.tskw.org

February 15 Anne Mckee Artists Fund Auction Preview 7 p.m., Auction 8 p.m. Key West.www.mckeefund.org

February 15 & 16 GardenFest and Green Market key WestTBA. Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd. 296-1504. www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org

February 23 Womankind Fundraiser key West lawn Party & Croquet Tournament11 a.m. Hosted by Edward B. Knight on the oceanfront lawn of his Thompson Island Estate. Contact Kim Romano.294-4004 x114. www.womankindkeywest.com

February 28 Garden Walk 201410 a.m.-4 p.m. 35th Annual self-guided tour of distinctive, private gardens not otherwise available to the public. Various locations in the Upper Keys.www.gardenclubupperkeys.com

March Annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Old Island Restoration Foundation, 322 Duval St.294-9501. www.oirf.org

March 8 & 9 Marathon Seafood Festival10 a.m. Marathon Community Park, 200 36th St.800-262-7284. www.marathonseafoodfestival.com

March 22 AIdS help AuctionTBA. The Studios of Key West, 600 White St.296-0458. www.tskw.org

March 29 Florida keys Ocean Fest & Waterfront Craft Show11 a.m.-6 p.m. Mote Marine 4th annual fundraiser includes music, art, exhibitions and silent auction. At Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, 32 East Quay Rd., Truman Waterfront, Key West. 292-7963 or 393-6022. www.keysoceanfest.org

April Migration Mania and egg huntTBA. Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd.296-1504. www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org

April 12 & 13 Florida keys 23rd Annual Island Fest10 a.m.-5 p.m. Founder’s Park, MM 87, Plantation Key. 664-4503. www.islamoradachamber.org

April 21-28 key largo 5th Annual Conch republic daysVarious venues & times.keylargoconchrepublicdays.com

May 7-11 key West 19th Annual Songwriters FestivalVarious locations in Key West.304-0814. www.kwswf.com

May 15-18 key largo's Original Music FestivalVarious locations in Key Largo.www.keylargosongwritersfestival.com

June 11-15 Pridefest key West 2014Various locations in Key West. 292-3223. www.pridefestkeywest.com

July MArC house Fundraiser reMArCable Mattheessen’s Ice Cream & Fresh Fruit Social MARC House, 1401 Seminary St., Key West.294-9526x25. www.marchouse.org

July Mel Fisher daysMel Fisher Maritime Museum, 200 Greene St., Key West.294-2633. www.melfisher.org.

July 4 VnA/hospice of the Florida keys FundraiserFourth of July Picnic & FireworksCasa Marina Resort, 1500 Reynolds St., Key West.

July 12 Underwater Music Festival10 a.m-2 p.m. At Looe Key Reef Resort, National Marine Sanctuary, MM 27, Ramrod Key. 872-2411. www.lowerkeyschamber.com

July hemingway days Festival Various locations in Key West. 292-8445. www.hemingwaydays.net

August 7-10 key West lobsterfestLower Duval St. www.keywestlobsterfest.com

September 2014 key West Women FestVarious times and locations in Key West. www.womenfest.com

MUSICdecember 1 handel’s Messiah Orchestra8 p.m. Old Stone Church, 600 Eaton St., Key West. 745-1409.

december 6 Florida keys Community College keys Chorale Concert8 p.m. Old Stone Church, 600 Eaton St., Key West. 295-7676. www.keystix.com

december 8 The revivalists7 p.m. Sunset Pier, 0 Duval St., Key West.295-7676. www.keystix.com

december 14 Children’s Christmas Concert with robyn kaplan’s Music StudentsTBA. Fort East Martello, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.296-3913. www.kwahs.org

december 21 MCT holiday ConcertTBA. Marathon Community Theater, 5101 OS Hwy., MM 49.5. 743-0408. www.marathontheater.org

december 22 Jerry’s Girls7:30 p.m. Tennessee Williams Theater, 5901 College Rd., Key West.www.keystix.com

January 10 Gordon ross Show Back by Popular demand8 p.m. Marathon Community Theater, 5101 OS Hwy., MM 49.5. 743-0408.www.marathontheater.org

January 11 Accoustic Jam With local Musicians TBA. Fort East Martello, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.296-3913. www.kwahs.org

February 7 Sweet Seasons: Carmen Sings Carol king8 p.m. San Carlos Institute, 516 Duval St. www.waterfrontplayhouse.org

February 8 Musical duo Tammerlin & key West high School Brass BandTBA. Fort East Martello, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.296-3913. www.kwahs.org

February 21 Bobby nesbitt Sings Cole Porter & The Gershwins8 p.m. Marathon Community Theater, 5101 OS Hwy., MM 49.5. 743-0408. www.marathontheater.org

March 1 & 3 elvis: A Concert experience featuring Jim “e” Jinelli8 p.m. Marathon Community Theater, 5101 OS Hwy., MM 49.5. 743-0408. www.marathontheater.org

March 8 The doerfel Family BandTBA. Fort East Martello, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.296-3913. www.kwahs.org

April 11 Florida keys Community College keys Chorale Spring Concert8 p.m. Tennessee Williams Theater, 5901 College Rd. www.keystix.com

FlOrIdA keYS COnCerT ASSOCIATIOn All performances at 7:30 p.m. The first performance will be held at Marathon High School Performing Arts Center, 350 Sombrero Beach Rd.

Middle keys Series San Pablo Church, 550 122nd St., Marathon. January 20 – Artie Shaw Orchestra January 27 – Rising Star Adria Ye February 3 – Alexander String Quartet February 10 – Soo-Yeon Ham February 17 – Trio Solisti February 24 – Jazz Trio Featuring Fred Moyermiddlekeys@floridakeysconcerts.com

Upper keys SeriesIsland Community Church, 83250 OS Hwy., MM 83.3, Islamorada.January 21 – Artie Shaw Orchestra January 28 – Rising Star Adria Ye February 4 – Alexander String Quartet February 11 – Soo-Yeon Ham February 18 – Trio Solisti February 25 – Jazz Trio Featuring Fred Moyerupperkeysconcerts@gmail.com www.floridakeysconcerts.com

IMPrOMPTU ClASSICAl COnCerTS OF keY WeST St. Paul’s Church, 410 Duval St.

All performances begin at 4 p.m.January 5 – Prima Trio January 19 – Shen/Berkovsky February 2 – Alexander String Quartet February 16 – Trio Solisti March 2 – Cavatina Duo March 16 – Gabriel Cabezas March 30 – Chamber Orchestra Kremlinwww.classicalconcertskw.org

lIVInG rOOM SerIeS8 p.m. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St., Key West. January 26 & 27, February 16-18, February 22 – Kathy Kosins: To the Ladies of Cool March 9 & 10 – Living Room Series: Bobby Nesbitt & Carmen Rodriguez294-9911. www.keystix.com

Various dates MUSIC In PArAdISeVarious times & locations in Key West. November – The Paradise Children’s Ensemble December – Christmas Chamber Music January – We’ll Be Forever Loving You February – Paradise Men’s Ensemble April – Paradise Children’s Ensemble June – Fourth Annual Music in Paradise Awards & Concert394-5360. www.keystix.com

POPS in the PArkKeys Community Concert Band, Founders Park, Bayside, MM 87, Islamorada. Free outdoor concert, bring blankets or lawn chairs. All performances at 4 p.m.November 30 – Americana December 21 – Sweet Sounds January 18 – Roadtrip USA February 15 – Animal Farm March 22 – Viva Florida April 26 – Young Musicians Concert 853-7294. www.keyscommunityconcertband.org

SOUTh FlOrIdA SYMPhOnY OrCheSTrA - Master ConcertsTennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Rd., Key West. Performances begin at 8 p.m.November 15– Master Concerts I: A Soul Unfettered January 30 – Master Concerts II: Double Speak & Hidden Meanings; March 27 – Master Concerts III: A Summons to Life 295-7676. www.keystix.com

SFSO –Tropical BeatsBlue Door String Quartet:October 7 – Blue Door String Quartet: Sumptuous Serenade, 6:30 p.m., Square One, 1075 Duval St.; January 11 – Blue Door String Quartet: The Humanity of Music, 5:30 p.m., Tennessee Williams Cabaret, 5901 College Rd.; February 22 – Cello Spirit, 6:30 p.m., Key West Yacht Club, 2315 N. Roosevelt Blvd.; March 12 – Passion Unleashed, 7:30 p.m., Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Rd.954-522-8445. southfloridasymphony.org

TenneSSee WIllIAMS CABAreTTennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Rd., Key West. All performances begin at 8 p.m.January 12 – Paradise Big Band February 10 – Randy Roberts Valentine’s Cabaret March 9 – Paradise Big Band March 10 – Gordon Ross: When I’m 64295-7676. www.keystix.com

12 13All phone numbers are area code 305 unless otherwise noted.

“Cool Garden” by Anris Boris

“Editing Ernest” by Rob O’Neal

“On The Rocks” by John David Hawver All phone numbers are area code 305 unless otherwise noted.

Various dates The STUdIOS OF keY WeST600 White St., Key West. TBA All performances begin at 8 p.m.November 22 – Ralph De Palma Thanksgiving Benefit Concert February 13 – Kim Gordon Cabaret February 28 – Cortadito Concert April 18 – Ellen Cherry Concert296-0458. www.keystix.com

WATerFrOnT PlAYhOUSe8 p.m. 310 Wall St., Key West. November 22 & 23 – And the Winner Is! A Concert of Oscar Winning Songs294-5015. www.waterfrontplayhouse.org

MUSIC ClASSeSKeys Chorale – FKCC, Continuing Education Dept., 809-3185, Dean Walters, Artistic Director; The Music Room – Private piano, woodwind and guitar lessons, Robin Kaplan, 294-7382; Violin/Viola/Cello Classes – Individual lessons in Key West, All ages & levels, Paul, 879-0560; Bahama Village Music Program – Free classes in steel pan, drums, piano, guitar, clarinet, saxophone, flute, violin and gospel choir for kids during the school year, 727 Fort St., 292-9628 or bvmpkw@aol.com; Classical Guitar Lessons – All ages & levels, Matthew Jampol Classical Guitar Studio, 3521 Eagle Ave., 304-1437 or jampol8@aol.com; MacArthur Music – Music lessons, sales, rentals, repairs & lessons, 906 13th St., 294-9329. www.macarthurmusic.comcastbiz.netSundays keys Chamber Orchestra rehearsal2 p.m. Pavilion at Venture Out Resort, 701 Spanish Main, Cudjoe Key. 304-7544. kco@sunlink.net.

TheATre May 17 & 18 Gospel of Good Time Burlesque8 p.m. The Studios of Key West, 600 White St., Key West.296-0458. www.tskw.org

July 19 One night Stand – 24 hour Theatre Project8 p.m. The Studios of Key West, 600 White St., Key West. 296-0458. www.tskw.org

Various dates enCOre SerIeS at the TenneSSee WIllIAMS TheATre5901 College Rd., Key West. All performances begin at 8 p.m. January 9 – Addams Family – National Tour January 31 – Irish Comedy Tour February 21 – The Oak Ridge Boys: Boys Night Out March 3 – That’s Entertainment, Four! (A Randy Roberts Production) March 7 – Ballet Stars of New York City March 18 – STOMP – National Tour296-1520. www.keystix.com

Various dates keYS kIdS 2100 Flagler Ave. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. December 5-8 – Disney’s The Little Mermaid February 20-23 – Oliver April 10-12 – Wanda’s World Music 509-1370. www.keystix.com, www.keyskidskeywest.com

Various dates keY WeST BUrleSQUe All performances begin at 8 p.m. October 19-22 – And the Winner Is!, at

Waterfront Playhouse, 310 Wall St.; October 24 – Fantasy Fest Burlesque and Pole Performance Contest, at Ocean Key Resort, 0 Duval St., Key West.info@keywestburlesque.com

Various dates keY WeST FrInGe TheATerAll performances begin at 8 p.m. December 4-7, 11-14 – Cock, At The Studios of Key West, 600 White St.; February 20-23, 26-28, March 1, 2 – A Delicate Balance, At The Custom’s House Museum, 281 Front St.; April TBA – Conch Republic (The Musical).786-529-2281. www.keywestfringe.org

Various dates MArAThOn COMMUnITY TheATer5101 Overseas Hwy., MM 49.5. Performances begin at 8 p.m. November 21-December 14 – Mama Won’t Fly January 16-February 8 – A Few Good Men March 13-April 12 – 9 to 5 The Musical May 8-24 – Marrying Terry743-0408. www.marathontheater.org

Various dates red BArn TheATre319 Duval St., Key West. Performances begin at 8 p.m. December 17-January 18 – Bingo! The Winning Musical January 28-March 1 – Vanya and Sonia and Masha and… March 5-15 – I Am My Own Wife March 25-April 26 – Clybourne Park May 6-31 – Short Attention Span Theatre296-9911. www.redbarntheatre.com

Various dates The keY PlAYerS TBA. Performances begin at 8 p.m. at the Murray E. Nelson Government & Cultural Center.509-0027. www.thekeyplayers.org

Various dates WATerFrOnT PlAYhOUSe310 Wall St., Key West. Performances begin at 8 p.m. December 19-January 11 – Leading Ladies January 30-February 15 – Other Desert Cities March 6-29 – Xanadu April 10-19 – Souvenir, A Fantasia on the Life of Florence Foster Jenkins; May 8-24 – A Dog Story294-5015. www.waterfrontplayhouse.org

VISUAl ArTSSeptember-november Industrious key WestGuy harvey – Old Man and the Sea SketchesTBA. Custom House, 281 Front St. 295-6616. www.kwahs.org

October 19 Andy Thurber & Wayne Garcia, Old Island Ways exhibit10 a.m.-6 p.m. Gallery on Greene, 606 Greene St.294-1669. www.galleryongreene.com

October - november Mario Sanchez exhibit, One race-Una raza10 a.m.-6 p.m. Gallery on Greene, 606 Greene St.294-1669. www.galleryongreene.com

november 1-30 Group Show to Open Season 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Frangipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St.296-0440. www.frangipanigallery.com

november 21-24 Chalk Fest10 a.m.-6 p.m. Artists from across Florida take their craft to the streets. Intricate and colorful

chalk art creations. Truman Waterfront. www.artinpublicplaceskw.com

november 29–december 1 ArT! key West 2013 Celebration of artists, galleries, performance art and music. Nov. 29 – Truman & White St. corridor Nov. 30 – Historic Seaport District Dec. 1 – Southernmost District (Upper Duval St.)luckystreetgallery@gmail.com, www.artskeywest.com

Various dates 11th Annual locals Art Show10 a.m.-5 p.m. Winn Dixie & K-Mart Plaza, MM 50.2, Marathon. 664-0001. www.localsartshow

december 1 & 6 Susann d’Antonio Sculptures & encaustics1 p.m.-4 p.m. Frangipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St. 296-0440. www.frangipanigallery.com

december 2 Celebrate the Season Annual Group Show Opening reception5 p.m.-7 p.m. Members exhibit. Key West Art Center, 301 Front St. 294-1241. www.keywestartcenter.com

december 6 Sculpture key West 2013 Opening 5 p.m. West Martello Tower, 1100 Atlantic Blvd., Higgs Beach.www.sculpturekeywest.org

december 14 Big Pine & The lower keys Island Art Festival10 a.m. Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, MM 31, Big Pine, Oceanside. 872-2411. www.lowerkeyschamber.com

december 27-30 Florida keys Art Guild Outdoor Art Festival 10 a.m. Bayview Park, Key West.743-7441. www.floridakeysartguild.com

december-February key West CollectsTBA. Custom House, 281 Front St. 295-6616. www.kwahs.org

december-March Tennessee Williams Paints TBA. Custom House, Bumpus Gallery, 281 Front St. 295-6616. www.kwahs.org

January lenny Addorisio, reminders of life Book launch & OpeningTBA. Fleming Street Gallery, 830 Fleming St.296-9000. www.flemingstreetgallery.com

January 3 Jessica Wilson, Wendy Jekel, Fran decker6 p.m.-9 p.m. Frangipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St.296-0440. www.frangipanigallery.com

January 25 & 26 key West Craft Show 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Key West Art Center, Whitehead and Caroline Streets. 294-1241. www.keywestartcenter.com

February 1 & 2 Florida keys Art Guild's Winter Art Show – Islamorada10 a.m.-5 p.m. Artists, vendors, musicians and awards. Postcard Inn, 84001 OS Hwy., Holiday Isle, Islamorada.897-9098. www.floridakeysartguild.com

February 7 david Scott Meir & Sandy kaster6 p.m.-9 p.m. Frangipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St.296-0440. frangipanigallery.com

February 8-9 Pigeon key Art Festival10 a.m.-5 p.m. Artists, vendors, musicians and awards. Marathon Community Park, 9805 OS Hwy., Pigeon Key Foundation.289-0025. www.pigeonkey.net

February 16 & 17 and March 15 & 16 Florida keys Art Guild's Winter Art Show – key largo 10 a.m. Waldorf Plaza, 99607 OS Hwy., Key Largo.897-9098. www.floridakeysartguild.com

February 22 & 23 Old Island days Art Festival10 a.m. Juried fine-art show with exhibitors from across the USA and Canada. Key West Art Center, Whitehead and Caroline Streets. 294-1241. www.keywestartcenter.com

March Schooner Wharf Open Air Art & Music Affair 10 a.m.-Sunset. Food, art and music. 202 William St., Key West.schoonerwb@aol.com

March 7 William Welch & Marc hacker6 p.m.-9 p.m. Frangipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St.296-0440. www.frangipanigallery.com

March 9 & 10 Florida keys Art Guild Outdoor Art Festival5800 OS Hwy., Marathon Community Park.743-7441. www.floridakeysartguild.com

March-May Marky PiersonTBA. Custom House Museum, 281 Front St.295-6616. www.kwahs.org

April 4 Paul Carmicheal & lois Songer6 p.m.-9 p.m. Franigipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St.296-0440. www.frangipanigallery.com

April-June key West Art Garden10 a.m.-4 p.m. Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd. 296-1504. www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org

April-August Florida keys Tourism: A historyTBA. Custom House Museum, Bumpus Gallery, 281 Front St. 295-6616. www.kwahs.org

May 2 Irene Stanton & lois GiffenFrangipani Gallery, 1102A Duval St. 296-0440. frangipanigallery.com

June-August Will FernandezTBA. Custom House Museum, 281 Front St.295-6616. www.kwahs.org

Third Thursdays Walk on White Gallery Walk6-9 p.m. Exhibitions and receptions at galleries and shops along White St. and Truman Ave., from Southard to United Streets, Key West. Morada Way Arts & Cultural district Walkabout6-9 p.m. Park and stroll along the Old Highway to visit galleries, enjoy culinary arts and music in the heart of Islamorada. MM 81.5. moradawayarts@gmail.com, www.moradawayarts.org

Plant and Art Sale Nov 23 & 24, 2013

Sculpture Key West Dec 6, 2013–March 23, 2014

Garden Tours April 12 & 13, 2014

305-294-3210www.keywestgardenclub.com

KEY WEST GARDEN CLUB

kwgc_culture ad 2013-2014.indd 1 7/1/13 1:26 PM

Garden Club of the Upper Keyspresents

GARDEN WALK 2014 FEBRUARY 28

Tickets and info: gardenclubupperkeys.org

10 am – 4 pm

Tour distinctive, private tropical gardens

See another side of the Florida Keys

Enjoy tea party and art show at our historic clubhouse

14 15All phone numbers are area code 305 unless otherwise noted. All phone numbers are area code 305 unless otherwise noted.

First Fridays Upper duval Street Stroll6-9 p.m. Galleries, boutiques and cafes open late for receptions & exhibitions from Truman Ave. to United St.Walk on Winn-dixie7 p.m.-9 p.m. Art exhibitions, music and receptions at galleries and shops within the plaza. MM 30, Big Pine Key. 872-1872.

last Fridays Gallery night6 p.m.-9 p.m. Key Largo Art Gallery, 103200 OS Hwy. 451-0052. www.keylargoartgallery.com

Thru January Seward Johnson – Man in the StreetBronze figures celebrating the familiar and simple pleasures. The Custom House Museum & Sculpture Garden, 281 Front St., Key West.295-6616. www.kwahs.org

dAnCe december 6 Train in the distance8 p.m. Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Rd., Key West.295-7676. www.keystix.com

december 28 denis hyland’s Billie holiday Tribute8 p.m. The Studios of Key West, 600 White St.296-0458. www.tskw.org

dAnCe ClASSeS:CoffeeMill dance & Yoga StudioBallet, modern, jazz, tap, hip-hop, latin, belly dance, and African dance. 916 Polhaski Lane, Key West. 296-9982. www.coffeemilldance@aol.com

dallas Macdonald Senior CenterLine Dancing and Lessons. 380 Key Deer Blvd., Big Pine Key. norma, 745-2383.

dance Factory Ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop & creative movement for children and adults, 906 Kennedy Dr., Key West. 296-5015. Evening Ballroom classes.304-8184. dancefactory@bellsouth.net

Florida keys Community CollegePre-ballet, ballet for all ages and levels. 5901 College Rd., Key West. 809-3185. www.fkcc.edu

learn to dance with lucy & leon Monthly dance socials, 8 week courses in swing, hustle, salsa rueda, cha cha & more. 1706 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West. 296-6348. www.keywestdance.wordpress.com

Marathon Community TheaterAll ages and levels in tap, belly dancing for women, Irish step, Bollywood, jazz and hip-hop. Marathon Community Theater, 5101 OS Hwy.743-0408. www.marathontheater.org

FIlM november 13-17 key West 2nd Annual Film Festival Featuring screenings and special events hosted at landmark venues throughout Key West.www.keywestfilmfestival.com

november 29-december 2 key West Film Fest Showcasing 25+ films from multiple genres, feature screenings, special events. Tropic Cinema and San Carlos Institute.295-9112. www.keywestiff.com

February 24 The Oscars ® key West7 p.m. Live telecast of the world’s most-watched awards program and a gala red carpet full of Key West’s own stars and luminaries. Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St.295-4393. www.tropiccinema.com

Saturdays & Tuesdays, September-May Saturday Morning Film Festival & Tuesday Film MatineeSaturday Film Festival starts at 10 a.m. Tuesday Film Matinee starts at 3:30 p.m. Free matinees highlighting classic films.Key West Library, 700 Fleming St. 292-3595. www.keyslibraries.org

Wednesdays Ibis Bay "dive-In" MovieTBA. Ibis Bay Beach Resort, 3101 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Contact Michael Shields.394-3804. tinyurl.com/c9db5ho

nightly Marathon Cinema7 p.m. 5101 Overseas Hwy. New movie each week. Saturdays and Sundays, 2 p.m.743-0288. marathoncinema.com

OnGOInG new, Independent, Foreign, documentaries & Urban FilmsDaily. Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St., Key West.www.tropiccinema.com

MUSeUMS & MOreOctober Fort Zachary Taylor haunted FortEntrance at Southard & Thomas Streets, Key West. www.hauntedkeywestfort.com

October The Ghosts of Fort east Martello Ghost tours of the fort and a special 108th birthday celebration for Robert the Doll.Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West.295-6616. www.kwahs.org

november 1-January 5 A Military Family Christmas exhibitTruman Little White House, 111 Front St. 294-9911. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com

december 1 lighting of the White house Tree6 p.m. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St.294-9911. Trumanlittlewhitehouse.com

december 6 & 8 Fort Taylor Pyrate Invasion10 a.m.-5p.m. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.292-6713. www.forttaylorpyrates.com

december 27 & 28, January 17 & 18, February 14 & 15, March 14 & 15 Old Island house & Garden ToursEach tour features 5 private homes and gardens reflecting the varied tastes and originality of their owners. Old Island Restoration Foundation, 322 Duval St., Key West. 294-9501. www.oirf.org

February 7-9 dive Into history: 20,000 leagues Under the SeaTBA. History of Diving Museum, MM 83, 82990 Overseas Hwy., Islamorada.664-9737. www.divingmuseum.org

February 15 Presidential Families Series – Where Presidents Vacation4 p.m. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St.294-9911. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com

February 28 Garden Walk 201410 a.m.-4 p.m. Garden Club of the Upper Keys.www.gardenclubupperkeys.org

April 1-6 Migration Mania10 a.m.-6 p.m. Key West Botanical Garden & Tropical Forest, 5210 College Rd. 296-1504. www.kwbgs.org

May 8 President harry S. Truman's 129th Birthday ObservanceTruman Little White House, 111 Front St., 294-9911. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com

May 16 & 17 Truman legacy Symposium: Truman’s decision to drop the Bomb8 p.m. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St.294-9911. www.keystix.com

May 23-25 dive Into history – honoring navy diversTBA. History of Diving Museum, 82990 Overseas Hwy., MM 83, Islamorada.664-9737. www.divingmuseum.org

May-September A Soldier from Independence exhibitTruman Little White House, 111 Front St.294-9911. www.trumanlittlewhitehouse.com

September Florida lighthouse dayTBA. Free for Florida residents. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters, 938 Whitehead St., Key West.295-6616. www.kwahs.org.

Third Wednesdays of Month Immerse Yourself! Series7 p.m. Free programs offer a wide variety of topics related to diving and the Florida Keys. The History of Diving Museum, 82990 OS Hwy., MM 83, Islamorada.664-9737. www.divingmuseum.com.

Various dates, november-May keY WeST MArITIMe hISTOrICAl SOCIeTYTBA. Preservation of the maritime heritage of the Florida Keys. Monthly lectures, field trips, exhibits, publications and special events. Award-winning Florida Keys Sea Heritage Journal, published quarterly. 292-7903.

Various dates keY WeST GArden ClUB West Martello Tower, 1100 Atlantic Blvd.October-April – Educational Lecture Sessions November – Fall Plant & Art Show January-April – Horticulture Lecture Series March – Garden Tours.294-3210. www.keywestgardenclub.com.

keY WeST TrOPICAl FOreST & BOTAnICAl GArden5210 College Rd. October 27 – Screaming Green Halloween December-July – Speaker Series December 8 & 9 – GardenFest March 23 – Migration Mania April-June – Key West Art Garden, sculpture exhibit April 13 – Hot Havana Nights June 22 – Mid-Summer Night’s Dream & Spectacle 296-1504. www.keywestbotanicalgarden.org

lITerArYJanuary 9-19 The dark Side – key West 32nd Annual literary Seminar & Writers’ Workshop ProgramJanuary 9-12 – Session One January 12-16 – Writer’s Workshop Program January 16-19 – Session Two San Carlos Institute, 516 Duval St.888-293-9291. www.kwls.org

First Sundays key West Poetry Guild Meeting8 p.m. Open to all interested in poetry. Blue Heaven Restaurant, 729 Thomas St., upstairs, Key West.292-8577. boatsy2002@aol.com

Mondays, January-March Friends of the key West library Free lecture Series6 p.m. Weekly lecture series with notable authors. The Studios of Key West, 600 White St.www.friendsofthekeywestlibrary.org

Third Mondays, January-April lunch Bunch Group12 p.m. Hooked on Books, MM 81.9, Islamorada.517-2602.

First Wednesdays keys Writers Meeting1 p.m. Read-aloud critique group for all forms of creative writing. All levels welcome. Big Pine Library, 213 Key Deer Blvd. joan@vestaastrology.com

Second Wednesdays, September-May Book Bites reading Group5:30 p.m. Monthly meeting discussing anything by or about a specified author. Contact Kris.292-3595. www.keyslibraries.com

last Wednesdays, September-May latitude 25 Writers Meeting7 p.m. Key Largo Library, Tradewinds Shopping Center, MM 101.4. Contact Steve Gibbs.853-7277, x16.

Thursdays, January-March Friends of the Marathon library Books and Coffee lecture Series1:30 p.m. Notable local authors. Refreshments. P.M. Program, 2 p.m. St. Columba Episcopal Church, 451 52nd St. 289-3137. www.keyslibraries.com

Second Thursdays, January-April Café con libros9:30 a.m. Monthly book meeting. Key West Library, 700 Fleming St. Contact Kris.292-3595. www.keyslibraries.com

First Saturdays, november-April Book Sale9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Key West Library Palm Garden, 700 Fleming St.292-3595. www.keyslibraries.com

Second & Fourth Saturdays key West Writers Guild Meeting10 a.m.-12 p.m. All newcomers welcome. Key West Library, 700 Fleming St. 296-9051. www.keywestwritersguild.net

ClASSeS And WOrkShOPSOnGOInG Workshop Series, Artist exhibitions & receptions, Special events & PresentationsThe Studios of Key West, 600 White St.296-0458. www.tskw.org

Please visit www.keysarts.com under “Your Visit” to view Florida Keys Council of the Arts cultural calendar and the Keys Arts Quarterly brochure for details.

KEY WEST B IG P INE KEY & THE LOWER KEYS MARATHON

ISLAMORADA

KEY L

ARGO

For over 100 years, The Florida Keys & Key West have attracted writers, artists, actors, dancers and musicians. Maybe it’s the water – warm, inviting and impossibly clear. Perhaps it’s the sunsets, worthy of standing ovations. Then again, it could be the come-as-you-are attitude, a sense of freedom that’s almost hard to put into words. fla-keys.com/culture 1.800.fla.keys

Inspirational By Nature.

MCTCU-8816 Culture Magazine 2014 Back Cover LO3 • November 2013