The Historic Key West Curry Mansion Inn was the setting today for a check presentation to two local charities who provide essential benefits to those in need across the lower Florida Keys and Key West. The Mystick Krewe of Key West hosted “Mayday, Mayday – A Mayhem Fashion Extravaganza” on April 17, 2019, with all proceeds raised providing assistance to Sister Season Fund – Locals Helping Locals, and Womankind. Forty-five Thousand dollars was raised during the program, which featured couture designs constructed from recycled, reused and repurposed materials and modeled by Key West notables. The funds will help provide housing assistance to hospitality workers and new technology to Womankind clients.
“The support from the Key West community was overwhelming with more than 250 attendees lining the runway to view the creative designs inspired by our environmental theme and helping fellow Key Westers, “ said Juan Pisani, event producer, and Krewe of Key West Lieutenant. “Our goal was to tap into the creativity for which our community is known and to turn trash into a rallying cry to top our support from last year’s event for those still in need in the lower keys.”
From outlandish to practical, most creations were made by local designers with one entry coming from as far away as Kenya and all having a story and a name. “Once Upon a Table,” “Kenya Jungle Magic,” “Tie One On,” “Party Like a Lob-Star,” and “Belle of the Bag,” were a few of the titles on the catwalk. When the final judges’ tally was announced, it was “Good To The Last Drop” worn by Cheryl Cates and designed by Chase Hurst and Dee Johnson scoring the highest votes for a gown constructed of thousands of coffee filters and recycled feathers. Erika Dooley Stokes as “Repurposed Rainbow” made of colorful used cups constructed and painted by her class of Sigsbee students nabbed the runner up prize.
“It was a night representative of the Key West creative spirit, where we send a powerful message while partying with a purpose and supporting worthy local charities, said Krewe Treasure, Chase Hurst. “Our show became a spotlight on need during the high tourist season, creating a runway with a cause.”
With one of Key West’s most iconic Inns flooded in red lights, the open-air setting made for a night of memories. “For two generations we have hosted splendid events, but being able to be a part of helping those from the hospitality industry and women with medical needs was extra special,” said Curry Mansion Inn owner, Phil Amsterdam.
The Krewe learned of continuing need in the non-profit sector impacted by Hurricane Irma and decided to again fill a funding gap with Sister Season Fund. WomanKind has been doing remarkable work but fell short of funds to purchase needed scanning equipment and we were pleased to be able to step in with funding. With a membership of over 300, the Krewe of Key West can assess community needs and act quickly to fill funding voids,” said Valsin Marmillion, Krewe Captain.
The Krewe of Key West has awarded over to $,130,000.00 to Key West nonprofits since its founding in 2015. Beside the Fashion Show beneficiaries, Key West High School Band, Wesley House, Lucy’s Fund and funds to pay off school lunch program debts have been part of the Krewe’s funding and community outreach program.