Those controversial bubbles are gone! Officials at the Key West Museum of Art & History have finally given in and removed the glass bubbles they added to a display of sculpted fish— without the artist's permission. But at first, when the artist complained, officials refused to act, apparently stricken with the prima donna syndrome. Then, apparently, somebody over there remembered the bizarre firing scandal a year or so ago. You may remember it, too:
Former City Commissioner Joe Pais was assistant director of the Key West Art & Historical Society. He also wrote a regular opinion column for Key West The Newspaper. When he opined in his column that lighted soft drink vending machines should be banned in Old Town, he was abruptly fired— even though he had already resigned to take a prestigious job with the state in Tallahassee. You see, one of the KWAHS directors was a big deal with Pepsi Cola here. Public outcry forced the KWAHS into a virtual information lockdown— sort of like the Key West Police Department these days.
But this week, the bubbles were removed. Now, wasn't that easy?
The marathon of fund-raising events that will determine who will be the King and Queen of Fantasy Fest has started. There will be a casino night at Capt. Runaground's Floating Restaurant this Wednesday, Aug. 29, to support the campaign of Bill Heller for King. Free appetizers and beverages, 6-7 p.m. A $20 donation at the door gets you $5 in chips to start your winning streak.