Upper Keys Weekly

Say it isn’t snow? P.22

COMMUNITY NEWS

XMAS FANATIC Man documents Christmas year-round in book | P. 32 Experts, scientists gather for first global summit | P.5

ECO-SAFE Sunscreen product benefitting all | P. 26

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Come one, come all, and come hungry!

Santa Claws

Extravaganza!

All week long, take a picture in our photo booth with props, post it on your social media and tag us! When you show us you’ve done all this, we will give you a free domestic beer or wine!

Thursday locals get 10% off drinks!

Friday Ugly Christmas Sweater Party!

With live music from 6-8pm Happy Hour is every day from 5-7pm $1.00 off drafts and wine!

Santa C

laws at The Mar Ba r $3.00 p er med ium sized c law

Come shop our first monthly Saturday Market!

From 12-4pm check out some great local shop vendors including, Susan Tower Accessories, Tyler Brunner Photography, Candles, Kadan Swimwear and more! Followed by live music from 6:30-9:30 by Lobster Traffic Jam!

See you at the Mar Bar for

Santa Claws Extravaganza!

Open Monday- Friday 4:30PM to 10Pm Saturday and Sunday from 11:30AM to 10PM We are located in the Casa Mar Village 90775 Old Highway Tavernier behind the Casa Mar Seafood Market • 305 853-6199

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

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COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

NUMBER OF THE WEEK Dec. 10 marked the 98th day of the 220-day project to clear Keys canals of marine debris. So far, 49 percent of the canals have been completed, or 84 of the 172 identified. Twenty-three percent of the grant funding has been used, or $10.5 million of the $45.8 million. To see the schedule of canals, visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/irmacanalcleanup.

91760 Overseas Hwy. Tavernier, FL 33070 Office: 305.363.2957 www.keysweekly.com

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THE UPPER KEYS WEEKLY (ISSN 1944-0812) IS PUBLISHED WEEKLY FOR $125 PER YEAR BY WEEKLY NEWSPAPERS, INC., 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050. APPLICATION TO MAIL AT PERIODICALS POSTAGE RATES IS PENDING AT FORT LAUDERDALE FL AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. All stories, photos, and graphics are copyrighted materials.

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SANTA’S BACKSTAGE CREW

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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HOLIDAY HELPERS SWING INTO ACTION

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Juliann DeSiato, 24, of Islamorada, throws up her arms in celebration after completing her first half marathon with her father Robert DeSiato and sister Alexis DeSiato, 29, at the finish line of the Islamorada Half Marathon & 10K run at Robbie’s.DOUG FINGER

EVERGLADES RESTORATION ON TAP

SARAH THOMAS

hey don’t arrive in a sleigh with eight tiny reindeer, but the Holiday Helpers of the Keys have plenty in common with Santa. Wesley House is the lead agency of a coalition of community organizations, local government agencies, and nonprofits joining together to make special families’ holidays merry and bright.

Their united mission? “Providing holiday gifts to children of families who are economically challenged, working in the service industry, construction, tourism- and water-based economy.”

“We want to be sure every child is going to have a good Christmas,” said Claire Hiller, special events and volunteer coordinator at Wesley House. Holiday Helpers operates on a referral basis, working not only through Wesley House, but also through Salvation Army; Key West Police Department; Monroe County Sheriff’s Office; Florida Keys Healthy Start Coalition; SOS; Early Learning Coalition and more.

Hiller said the referral basis targets “families that we know that are going to have trouble over Christmas.” Referral forms go to childcare centers, as well as the Sheriff’s Office and Police Department. The shared effort to disseminate toys (and holiday cheer) is taken very seriously. The different organizations communicate closely to be sure each population is served. Hiller recalls receiving an email from the folks at the United Way stating they want to be sure no one in the Keys “falls through the cracks.”

Holiday toy stores are set up in Key West, Marathon and Key Largo,

ON THE COVER

Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Detention Deputies Reid and Pettry from the Marathon jail collect toys this week for Holiday Helpers of the Florida Keys.

MONROE COUNTY JAIL/Contributed

so that parents can visit and pick out toys. Each family must bring a referral form and an ID, and they are assisted with shopping for their children: three toys per child, as well as stocking stuffers and decorations.

“The parents get the power to select the gifts, because they know their children best,” said Hiller.

Community events have helped fill the shelves—the Lighted Bike Parade required a donated toy for registration.

“A lot of businesses, when they have their company parties, ask their staff to bring toys for Holiday Helpers,” Hiller said. “We have incredible individuals and service groups.” Key West hotspot La Te Da, whose annual holiday féte is always one for the books, is famous for providing a mountain of toys for little Conchs via Holiday Helpers. St. Mary’s has an angel tree, and a member of the congregation donates a toy for each “angel.”

The folks from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office also swing into Santa mode. “Jon Crane and his Leadership Monroe class — for nine or 10 years — they continue to provide bicycles for Holiday Helpers,” Hiller said. Crane is the operations captain at the Monroe County Jail.

“The Sheriff’s Office lines all the bikes up in the hallway, and they deliver them, or the parents can come pick out their bike.”

fficials from various agencies paid a visit to Islamorada on Dec. 12 to discuss the Everglades Water Supply Project and the Combined Operational Plan, which will determine how the water is used.

For decades, state and federal governments have been building a network of restoration projects with the goal to deliver more water to Florida Bay. Projects have cost taxpayers more than $1 billion.

With construction complete, the next step will be to turn the projects on in order to get much needed ecosystem benefits, according to Cara Cappa, Everglades Restoration program manager.

Now, agencies including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Florida Water Management District and National Park Service are figuring out a plan to operate the system. Through the Combined Operational Plan, a comprehensive integrated water control plan, agencies will dictate how the restoration projects are used, how much water comes to Florida Bay and where the water will flow.

Discussions on Dec. 12 focused on modifying water deliveries to Everglades National Park. Jed Redwine, of the National Park Service, noted that improving hydrologic conditions through Shark River Slough in the park is an important first step. Redwine said it would be the first time since the 1960s and ’70s that more water would pass through Shark Slough. Officials said the plan re-distributes the existing water budget.

Ecological and flood risk subteams presented an evaluation during the meeting of the Combined Operational Plan Round 2 alternatives and base conditions. A workshop was also held to solicit input on optimization of the final alternative for round 3 hydrologic modeling, which is scheduled to start in January. The meeting, which lasted throughout the day, also gathered feedback from the public toward the end.

ENVIRONMENT

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

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GLOBAL GATHERING Experts convene in bid to restore, reinvigorate coral reefs JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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“meeting of hope” is how Scott Winters termed it during the opening remarks of Reef Futures 2018 on Dec. 11 at Ocean Reef.

With 500 in attendance, the symposium from Dec. 10-14 is bringing experts and leading scientists from 40 countries to share the latest science and techniques for coral reef restoration while kicking off a global effort to scale up restoration as a tool for coral reef conservation and management.

The symposium, put on by the Coral Restoration Consortium, focused on the role of restoration in reef management and conservation, best restoration practices, interventions in context of a changing planet and demonstrating the value and efficacy of restoration and interventions.

Winters, who’s co-chair of Coral Restoration Consortium and CEO of Coral Restoration Foundation, said it’s not too late for intervention and not too late to save coral reefs.

Winters said the room full of people is passionate and engaged in saving the reef.

The Coral Restoration Consortium (CRC) is made up of scientists, managers, coral restoration practitioners and educators, dedicated to enabling coral reef ecosystems to survive the 21st century and beyond.

Its mission is to bring collaboration among participants and facilitate scientific ingenuity to demonstrate that restoration can be achieved.

“It really is amazing the commu-

Coral Restoration Foundation outplants in Key Largo. ALEX NEUFELD/Contributed

nity we have here, of people working every day to save coral reefs,” Winters said. “This week, we have the opportunity to connect not just with people you might know. I’m hoping it catalyzes new connections and to learn from one another.”

Even though individuals may differ on details related to coral reef restoration, Winters said, they’re all on the same team as they work to make a difference. Winters said the more those in coral restoration work as one community, the greater their impact.

Tom Moore, consortium co-chair and coral reef restoration program manager with NOAA, has been a tireless advocate and champion of the coral reefs, according to Winters.

In his remarks, Moore noted how a small group gathered two years ago in Fort Lauderdale to discuss forming a restoration community. And two years later, a global gathering was held for the first time.

“It’s remarkable and exceeded my wildest expectations,” Moore said. “The driving force behind our success isn’t a logo or organizational name; it’s everyone in the room to work collectively as one team. We are working collectively to make a difference.”

Speakers included Buki Rinkevich, of the National Institute of Oceanography in Israel, who discussed coral restoration activities.

Sarah Fangman, superintendent of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, spoke on the reef system in the Keys and the challenges faced.

Ilsa Kuffner of the U.S. Geological Survey, Reed Noss of the Florida Institute of Conservation Science and Line Bay, research scientist with the Australian Institute of Marine Science, also spoke during the symposium.

Three-year old Palmata with Diadema. NOAA RESTORATION CENTER/Contributed

‘A TON OF SHARING’ Consortium groups working on solutions JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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rmed with scientists, coral practitioners and educators, the Coral Restoration Consortium is dedicating its efforts on enabling coral reef ecosystems.

To bring coral reefs back, CRC says the focus is being put on topical priorities for the next three to five years. For each priority, a dedicated working group is being formed to develop solutions-oriented action plans and to help establish best management practices.

According to CRC, priorities include scaling up in-water, land-based and larval propagation; designing projects to demonstrate ecosystem functioning and coastal protection; fostering genetics science; and developing restoration monitoring guidelines and common-access data platforms.

Tom Moore, consortium co-chair and coral reef restoration program manager with NOAA, said the consortium wouldn’t be what it is today without Tali Vardi, coral science lead at NOAA. Vardi, who’s coordinator with CRC, spoke during the symposium on Dec. 11 about the consortium. Two years ago, scientists and managers gathered and realized they wanted to get the community together.

“There was a ton of sharing and a ton of energy,” she said.

The CRC is initially focusing on Caribbean coral restoration. CRC is inviting participation from scientists, managers, and practitioners working in other regions to help expand knowledge and collaboration.

If successful in the Caribbean and resources permit, the consortium would look forward to helping spread restoration efforts globally. Best practices and lessons learned from CRC efforts in the Caribbean will be shared with managers around the globe through the Reef Resilience Network.

According to CRC, reefs provide not only marine life with food but 500 million people with nourishment as well. On the medical side, drugs derived from coral and reef-associated species are treating ailments and several types of cancer.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

NEW ADDITIONS

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Rotary Club of Key Largo president Jennifer McComb, left, poses with new members Nicole Blanche, Melissa Lopez, Lourdes Montagne and Sarah Masterson, Satellite Club of Key Largo Sunset chair Lisa Feliciano and Key Largo Rotarian Cheryl Powers. CONTRIBUTED

he Rotary Club of Key Largo installed four new members to its new Rotary Satellite Club of Key Largo Sunset on Dec. 3 at Playa Largo Resort & Spa. Nicole Blanche, Melissa Lopez, Lourdes Montagne and Sarah Masterson join the 30 founding members of the new club, officially chartered by Rotary International on Oct. 4, 2018.

“Eight out of 10 Rotarians worldwide are men. So, it’s remarkable that we have 26 women in our new club of 34 members,” said Key Largo Rotary president Jennifer McComb. “Rotary International was founded in 1905, but women were not permitted to join Rotary clubs until 1989, after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that women could not be excluded from membership.”

— Contributed

DEDICATED SERVICE President celebrates 30th year at First State Bank

Karen Sharp, president, chief executive officer, and director of First State Bank of the Florida Keys, is marking 30 years of service at the bank.

Sharp began her career in the financial industry in 1981 and has been working at First State Bank since 1988.

“Karen’s vision, dedication, leadership and commitment to the bank and Keys community has been an important factor in our ongoing success and an example to us all,” said Jack Spottswood, chairman of the bank’s board. “We are very lucky to have her as the leader of our local family of bankers.”

A native of Dearborn, Mich., Sharp is a Florida Certified Public Accountant and holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Florida Atlantic Karen Sharp University, and a master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University.

She is a board member of the Key West Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Bankers Association’s BancServ Committee, and is a past board member of the association. She is also a past board member of the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and past president and honorary board member of American Cancer Society Florida Keys Unit.

- Contributed

Brody Michael Laczos Brody Michael Lazcos was born at 8:37 a.m. on Nov. 2 at Baptist Memorial in Miami. Brody was 18-3/4 inches tall and weighed 5 pounds, 2 ounces.

Parents are Lindsey Elizabeth Lazcos, a senior casualty adjuster at Progressive Insurance, and David Michael Lazcos, senior nuclear operator at Florida Power and Light. The family resides in Key Largo. Maternal grandparents are Daniel and Deborah Ewald of Austin, Texas. Paternal grandparents are Publio and Miriam Lazcos of Key Largo.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION

Ernest and Eufrocina Nader dance to the sounds of musician Micah Gardner, not pictured, during a Centennial Bank customer appreciation party in the parking lot of the bank’s Islamorada branch on Nov.29. “We love to dance” said Ernest.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

Great jobs with great pay do exist in the Keys.

We are growing and looking for talented people to join our team.

Email your resume to britt@keysweekly.com.

Join Dr. Brian Margane as he presents on the Fleet Buen Jesus y Nuestra Senora del Rosario which sunk off Florida's coast in 1622. Learn about life aboard a Spanish merchant ship and the goods they carried.

Museum members call ahead to reserve your seat!

Exhibits & Museum Store open until 6:45 Great last minute holiday gifts!

Locally owned and operated since 2003.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

SAVE THE DATE Thursday, Dec. 13 • Free screening of “A Plastic Ocean” and panel discussion at 5 p.m. at Murray Nelson Center, Key Largo.

Saturday, Dec. 15 • Deadline for nominations for the 2019 Unsung Heroes awards presented by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. Visit cffk.org.

Florida Department of State/CONTRIBUTED

TAVERNIER WHAT’S IN A NAME? UPPER KEYS HISTORY

BRAD BERTELLI

www.keysweekly.com

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barstool historian would say the origin story of the Tavernier place name involves a thirsty sailor coming ashore and asking, “Is there a tavern near?” Others have pondered if the name might be French in origin, as “Tavernier” is the French word for innkeeper. Looking more closely at the name’s evolution, the origin seems to have more linguistic than cultural roots. Early names for the island include Caio di Tabanos (1639) and Cayo Tabanos (1742). Roughly translated from the Spanish, the island was known as Horsefly Key. What is important to keep in mind about the word tabano is that in Spanish the “b” is pronounced with a “v” sound.

This would explain why the William Roberts work “First Discovery and Natural History of Florida” (1763) identified the island as Cayo de Tivanos. A 1772 chart drawn

by William de Brahm uses the name Stephens Island. It would be a short-lived reference, as the island is labeled on a 1775 chart by both the Spanish and English names, Cayo Tabano and Key Tavernier. At just over 31 acres, this privately owned island has been Tavernier Key ever since. For those with an extra $10 million in their pocket, the island is for sale.

Brad Bertelli is curator of the Keys History & Discovery Center.

Friday, Dec. 14 • Artist Kathleen Denis at “Demo and Dessert” event from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Our Place in Paradise Gallery, Tavernier.

• Jingle, Mingle & Shop from 4 to 6 p.m. at Cirque Salon Studios, Key Largo.

• Holiday Open House from 4 to 8 p.m. at Wild Lily, Islamorada.

Saturday, Dec. 15 • Meet Santa from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Island Dolphin Care, Key Largo.

• See Santa arrive by boat at 11 a.m. at World Wide Sportsman, Islamorada.

• Keys Community Concert Band Holiday Suite Treats concert at 4 p.m. at Founders Park, Islamorada.

Sunday, Dec. 16 • Island Art Gallery and Gifts opening from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Rainbarrel, Islamorada.

Wednesday, Dec. 19 • “Looking Good in the Neighborhood” shopping event from 5 to 7 p.m. at MARC Thrift & Boutique, Tavernier.

• Immerse Yourself! Free presentation series at 7 p.m. at History of Diving Museum, Islamorada.

Thursday, Dec. 20 • Third Thursday Artwalk from 6 to 9 p.m. at Morada Way, Islamorada.

Monday, Dec. 31 • Fireworks at Blackwater Sound with viewing from bayside restaurants located between MM 103-104, Key Largo.

Wednesday, Jan. 9 • Master gardener plant clinic from 9 a.m. to noon at Murray Nelson Government Center, Key Largo.

To see Keyswide events, sign up for TheWeekly’s e-mail at keysweekly. com.

ADMISSION FREE FOR BOYS’ BASKETBALL GAMES

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dmission will be free for all of Coral Shores’ 201819 boys basketball games thanks to the benevolence of Dr. Rob Prosek and his Florida Veterinary Cardiology Clinics.

“We’re very grateful to Dr. Prosek,” said varsity boys basketball coach, Jarrod Mandozzi. “Last year he purchased new uniforms for the team. Between him and the Upper Keys Foundation, we don’t have to charge participation fees and we don’t have to fundraise.”

“Doctor Prosek has been extremely gracious to our athletic department over the years; I can’t begin to tell you all the ways he’s assisted,” said CSHS Dr. Rob Prosek Athletic Director, Rich Russell. “He recently approached me about how we might improve attendance for boys’ basketball. Our discussion led to him agreeing to underwrite the projected gate revenues for the season.” Our students, parents and community members can now see Coach (Jarrod) Mandozzi’s guys play on a regular bases. We all know that athletes feed off of the crowd so this is a ‘win-win’ scenario.”

When asked for comment, Coral Shores’ principal, Blake Fry said, “Folks have no idea how many ways Dr. Prosek has helped our school.

Rich can tell you about all the things he’s done for the athletic department but the full truth is, he assists with ANY needs he hears about at Coral Shores. We all remain in his debt.”

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

JOIN US FOR DECEMBER DISCOUNT DAYS! A Favorite Locals Event!

Everything in the store is DISCOUNTED THRU DECEMBER 24TH! Must Show Local ID A beautiful assortment of jewelry, tropical décor, nautical gifts, clothing, toys and more!

OluKai • Salt Life • Crocs Mud-Pie Charles Albert Jewelry

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KEYS EATS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

ANNUAL TENT SALE

DECEMBER 15 & 16 2 DAYS ONLY!

Store wide sale 20%-50% OFF On Brands Such As: Beach Marine Bait Pens, Costa, Salt Life Optics, Aftco Gaffs, Shimano, PowerPro, Mustad, Tsunami, Cuda Tools, Bubba Blades, Play Action Products, Pinfish Traps and more!

Penn Rod & Reel Combos

15% off

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all YETI products

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20% off

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Deep Discounts on PowerPro

Bubba Blades

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Bulk 30-50 Pack YT Candy Jigs $16.99

Take it with you or we store it for you with our 5 & 10 case chum cards

Stick Lead & Bulk Lead $2.99 lb.

Don't Miss Out! | 305.289.0199 11499 Overseas Hwy • MM 53 (across from D’asign Source)

OCEAN TO TABLE Rolls and more at local fish shack The calamari salad at What The Fish Rolls & More features grilled calamari, arugula, shredded tomatoes and romaine./JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

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ut of the blue, onto the dish and to the table. What The Fish Rolls & More focuses on ocean to table and locally caught specialties, seasonal favorites as well as a wide variety of seafood related buns and ready-to-eat entrees.

Patrons of the fish shack, located next to Casa Mar Village in Islamorada, get the freshest food prepared in an assortment of creative menu items that draw from the Keys’ richness, in an innovative take on the island’s food culture.

That includes a variety of “What the Fish Rolls.” Alex Tani, who runs the fish shack, says the Roller Lobster, Calamari Roll and the Casa Mar Roll are among the popular choices.

Roller Lobster features fresh lobster with house mayo, lettuce, cilantro and lemon butter. Casa Mar Roll features the fresh catch from the local seafood market with cole slaw, lettuce and aji Amarillo.

“Forget it,” he said. “They’re the best.”

From the grill, patrons can order calamari salad or the fresh catch.

There’s also a wide selection of tacos as well as hot dogs on a fresh, toasted bun. For lunch, try the El Chingon dog that’s made with queso fresco, cilantro avocado and chipotle mayo, or the Fat Tuesday that’s made with Andouille sausage, caramelized onions and peppers and creole mustard. Wine and beer are available.

Tani, who’s from Italy and grew up in Venezuela, said he learned how to make the food from his brother-in-law Carlos, who’s a professional chef and the one behind the fish shack. Tani said his wife and he worked hard at the beginning to get it going.

The luscious calamari roll features crispy calamari, cilantro, lettuce and spicy mayo.

“He (my brother-in-law) had this idea in his head,” Tani said. “He asked if we would like to take his idea to make this. We decided at that time to take the opportunity. Sometimes he came here and he showed me how to make the food, and he gave the recipes to me.”

Tani says the fish shack gets its fresh catch from Casamar Seafood and owner Ulises Perdomo. Fresh food is very important to the fish shack, Tani said.

“We don’t have a space to freeze fish and I don’t like to freeze fish because the taste is different,” Tani said.

“We work with Ulises, and he’s a friend of our family. We work together. Having the seafood market nearby is one big value that we have.”

What The Fish? Rolls & More is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. More information is at whatthefishrolls.com.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Sunday, Dec. 23

at IBC tasting room and distillery

MM 82.2 • 305.440.2162

305-852-3002

Happy Holidays from our Team to Yours!

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GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Laid-Back

Waterfront Island Dining & Tiki Bar

Social Starters • Handcrafted Burgers/Sandwiches Big Salad Burger Bowls • Frozen Treats • Specialty Cocktails OPEN FOR LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY FROM 11:30AM-10PM

Located at Amara Cay Resort 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada amaracayresort.com (305) 664-0073

Sewing Club members from Treasure Village Montessori Charter School deliver five handmade quilts to the Crystal Health & Rehab Center. CONTRIBUTED

THOUGHTFUL GIFT

FRESH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON SEND THE GIFT OF

FROM FLORIDA SEAFOOD

We offer catering for your Holiday parties and events as well as shipping Fresh Florida Seafood to surprise your friends and family this season!

STONE CRABS, FLORIDA LOBSTER, YELLOW TAIL SNAPPER, MAHI MAHI

FRESH SOUPS, SALADS, AND SAUCES:

Conch Salad, Snapper, Smoked Fish Dip, Lobster Bisque Seafood Market open Mon - Thurs 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Fri & Sat 7 AM - 7 PM 1313 Ocean bay Drive Key Largo, Fl 33037 305 451-3782 www.keylargofisheries.com

School sewing club donates quilts

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embers of the Sewing Club from Treasure Village Montessori Charter School delivered five handmade quilts to the Crystal Health & Rehab Center at Plantation Key Nursing Center in Tavernier on Dec. 10.

The students have been meeting weekly this semester under the direction of the school’s art director, Diana McGirk-Hillie to learn how to use a sewing machine to create quilts.

“The students enjoyed the process in making the quilts and are now proficient in using the sewing machines.

They were especially thrilled today to deliver their creations to local community members who can use them. It has been a really wonderful way to spread some holiday cheer through sewing.” said McGirk-Hillie.

The fabric used in the quilts was donated by parents and businesses.

—Contributed

A quilt is delivered to a woman at Crystal Health & Rehab Center

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

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SOUTHWINDS TREE LIGHTING Channing Curls, 3, gets a closer look at the lights while walking with her mother, Casey Jefferies, during the Islamorada Foundation’s 60 Nights of Lights tree lighting event at Southwinds Park in Islamorada on Nov. 29.

Each tree wrapped in lights is sponsored by Islamorada residents and businesses; the event is the sole funding source for Southwinds Park. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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14

ISLAMORADA

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

TO ACCEPT OR NOT TO ACCEPT? Council to consider affordable housing allocation JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

F

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ourteen agenda items await action by village council on Thursday, Dec. 13 — one of which is the proposed 300 affordable housing allocations from the state of Florida.

Additional development rights are part of 1,300 awarded

by Gov. Rick Scott to Monroe County following Hurricane Irma.

During last month’s council meeting, Affordable Housing Citizens’ Advisory Committee chairwoman Rebekah Susa came before members to provide an update. The committee met Nov. 5 and discussed the 300 units the village may or may not accept.

Susa said the committee is “letting Marathon blaze the trail and we’re kind of sitting back to see what happens with them.”

In Marathon, resident Cecelia Mattino recently filed an administrative challenge to the city’s plan to add 300 affordable housing units. Mattino alleges the additional development will affect hurricane evacuation and that residents of the new units aren’t necessarily part of the workforce, nor are the units truly affordable. The case will be heard by an administrative law judge from the state Department of Administrative Hearings.

Susa went on to note that the committee believes the village should consider stockpiling them.

“Just having the 300 units might be something valuable,” Susa said. “We don’t have to issue them if we don’t need to. But if it comes down to a time crunch, then we would maybe want to warehouse them.”

Councilwoman Cheryl Meads said last month that she doesn’t know why the village would ever reject 300 permits that “we don’t have to use.” Meads also noted that commercial structures that are one story and are a certain height can add a second story and use affordable housing permits.

“We actually have more room than people might think we do and I don’t know why we would ever say ‘no,’” she said.

Along with an ordinance to establish provisions for new affordable unit allocations, council members will consider a text amendment related to policy on limiting transient rental use of residential properties and an ordinance to establish an idle speed/ no-wake zone for the Wheel Ditch off Whale Harbor Channel.

Notable resolution items include approving an agreement for professional services for a canal restoration project; requesting FDOT approval of the design of the pedestrian bridge over U.S. 1 at Founders Park; installation of community art features on the FDOT property adjacent to U.S. 1 at about MM 80, bayside; approving a project agreement for Founders Park Breakwater repairs phase 1; and ratifying and approving a 99-year lease with Habitat for Humanity for property at 84771 Overseas Highway for affordable housing use.

UPPER KEYS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

AWARDING FUNDS DAC says ‘yes’ to assistance for various projects JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

F

unds could be on the way to support improvement projects in Key Largo and Islamorada, if the Tourist Development Council and Monroe County Board of County Commissioners give the necessary approvals.

On Dec. 4, District Five’s Advisory Committee met at the Murray Nelson Government & Cultural Center to consider three applications. All received unanimous committee approval for funding. Two applications were for repairs and enhancements to Island Dolphin Care and one was for Reef Environmental Education Foundation.

Committee members approved a request in the amount of $1,162.50 to complete work on Island Dolphin Care’s awning, which was damaged by Hurricane Irma. Peter Hoagland, who runs the nonprofit with his wife, Deena, said the awning was 12 years old before the storm took it out.

Approval was also granted for $43,217 in repair work on Island Dolphin Care’s elevators, also damaged by the hurricane.

The Hoaglands say the number of tourists they’re seeing come through the doors is growing. The response they’ve been getting has also been positive. In their application, the Hoaglands acknowledge how much of an attraction dolphins are to visitors. Island Dolphin Care programs, at its fully accessible facility, are for dolphin interactions with children and adults with special needs and family members.

Caroly Shumway, executive director for Reef Environmental Education Foundation, came before the committee to discuss a request to add car charging stations, solar roof installation, lionfish aquarium display and educational signs. With solar panels, sunlight will be used to power facilities while providing electric vehicles with free charging opportunities.

REEF says it’s spent years enhancing the campus to draw conservation enthusiasts to the facility. REEF’s outdoor and indoor campus has become an educational oasis that features technological advances and renewable energy resources rarely seen in the Florida Keys. Following discussion over installation of the charging stations, committee members gave the go-ahead for funding in the amount of $35,250.

In Islamorada, District Four’s Advisory Council met on Dec. 4 and approved funding for four projects. They include Founders Park Gate House, $12,000, and Key Tree Cactus Preserve Amenities, $77,500, through the village of Islamorada. The Coral Restoration Foundation received approval in the amount of $6,000 for coral restoration while The Florida Keys History of Diving Museum received committee approval for $28,500 for HVAC and security.

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WILDLIFE

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

SARA MATTHIS sara@keysweekly.com

MANATEE I NUMBERS IT HASN’T BEEN A GOOD YEAR

U.S. FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE/Contributed

t hasn’t been a good year for the manatee in the state of Florida.

Statewide, there have been 763 deaths reported in the first 11 months compared to the 538 reported deaths in 2017.

The red tide blooms in Lee, Charlotte and Sarasota counties had a definite effect. The official count of red tide deaths statewide — including those confirmed and suspected — stands at 206, with one month left to report. Last year, the number was 67. But that’s not as bad as 2013, when the red tide manatee deaths climbed to 277.

According to Mote Marine Laboratory, red tide is to blame for 10 percent of manatee deaths when averaged over 10 years. According to an article published on Mote Marine’s website, that number jumps to 30 percent during bloom years.

The manatees that expire from red tide are categorized as “natural; other” deaths. Of course, manatees expire for

many reasons, including infections and birth complications. The data captures that, plus deaths in categories such as perinatal (stillborn or very young manatees), cold stress (water temperatures below 68 degrees), natural, undetermined (no necropsy) and watercraft strikes.

In the Florida Keys, the numbers are still tragic, but nowhere near the highest in the state. In 2018, there were 25, most in the Upper Keys, except two in Marathon and two in Key West. In 2017, there were 17 reported manatee deaths. Of the 17 deaths, six were from undetermined causes, two manatees were never recovered, four were perinatal and five were from boat strikes.

Every year, boat strikes are responsible for about 20 percent of manatee deaths, except in abnormal years with red tide, which skews the statistic.

But there’s good news, too. There have been 118 manatees rescued so far this year, 66 of which have been released. Most of the sea cows had suffered a boat strike, but plenty get tangled in crab traps or monofilament or some type of manmade structure like a culvert.

Mote Marine immunology expert Cathy Walsh and FIU chemist Kathleen Rein are studying how to treat red tide sickness in the sea cow. According to Mote, the team will study the effectiveness of certain antioxidants as opposed to the current treatment of anti-inflammatories.

“The current approach is simply to give palliative care and wait for them to clear the toxin and get better,” Rein said in a Mote report. “This new treatment could accelerate the healing process.”

The FWC has an entire department dedicated to manatee research, including tracking and counting the population, and trying to develop some type of technology to reduce boat strikes.

Two years ago, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service changed the manatee status from endangered to threatened.

RESCUE & RELEASE Twin 2-year-old manatees named Millennium (male) and Falcon (female) were released back into the water off Key Largo about three weeks ago. The siblings were rescued in October 2016 by Dolphin Research Center and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission after their mother, a well-known manatee named Bonnie, was killed by a boat strike. After their rescue, the young calves were transported to Miami Seaquarium for their initial care. They were then transferred to Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio to grow up a little. In September 2018, they returned to Miami to begin acclimation to ambient water temperatures, sea grass and other things in preparation for their release.

Now weighing about 600 pounds each, the manatees were outfitted with satellite tracking tags. Their condition and progress will be monitored for the next few months to ensure that they are thriving.

— Contributed

WHAT TO DO …

If you see a sick, injured, dead or tagged manatee, get on the horn immediately. Call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Toll-Free Number 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or cellular phone customers can call *FWC or #FWC.

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

TOSS IT OUT Islamorada sets hazardous waste disposal

T

his weekend, Islamorada residents can safely dispose of hazardous household waste locally.

On Friday, Dec. 14 and Saturday, Dec. 15, Islamorada residents may take household hazardous waste to a special drop-off location at Founders Park (MM 87 bayside). The drop-off location will be set up near the south park entrance behind the Administrative Center parking lot. Drop-off hours will be 9 a.m. to noon both days.

The event is one of four per year that Islamorada provides. The collection is an effort to remove hazardous materials from the waste stream and to provide proper disposal.

Household waste materials include bottles or cans of flammable liquid fuel and chlorine bottles, liquid poison, flammable solids, aerosol, corrosive materials, liquid or solid oxidizers, pesticides or herbicides, cyanides or sulfides, dry cell alkaline batteries, lead acid batteries, used non-contaminated oils, anti-freeze, latex paints, PCB liquids, BCB ballasts, non-regulated soaps, polishes and similar materials, contaminated oil solvents, oil-based paints and thinners, and tires off the rim that do not exceed a light duty SUV. Computer, electronic and lighting waste from the home is accepted at the drop-off days and throughout the year. Contact Advanced Disposal to schedule a free residential roadside pickup of household electronics. Pickups are made within five working days Residential used motor oil also is accepted throughout the year.

Up to five gallons may be dropped off at the Advanced Disposal local office, 86490 Overseas Highway, from 8 a.m. to noon.

The household hazardous waste days are provided for Islamorada’s residential solid waste customers.

Commercial customers must contact Advanced Disposal to arrange for proper disposal of hazardous materials.

The drop-off days are usually the second consecutive Friday and Saturday in March, June, September and December. The dates for 2019 will be posted in January. More information is available from the Advanced Disposal office at 305-853-3433 or IslamoradaFL@AdvancedDisposal.com or from the Islamorada Public Works Department at 305-852-6933 or public.works@islamorada.fl.us.

—Contributed

NEW MEMBERS Rotary Club initiates two

The Upper Keys Rotary Club adds two new members at its weekly luncheon on Dec. 11. Marty McGreevy, left, transferred his membership from Perdido Key upon retiring to the Keys. Chris Ward, right, is a Coral Shores graduate who owns the Sea Tow operations between Tavernier and Marathon. The Upper Keys Rotary Club, led by president Terry Abel, center, produces the Gigantic Nautical Flea Market and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for local scholarships every year. JASON KOLER/ Keys Weekly

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STUDENT OF THE WEEK

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Untangle Your Finances

The Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Island Christian faculty and students in choosing “The Student of the Week.” Recipients are chosen on qualifications including academic standing, athletics, outstanding achievements, community involvement, individuality and moral fortitude. We thank our future leaders and ICS for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Eagle Pride” and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

What does a “good education” mean to you? It means that the teacher who’s teaching you is invested in your learning, and that the students are constantly being pushed to grow.

Apply Today!

Call 305-293-6000

Go to KeysFCU.org

Visit us in Key West at 514 Southard St. or 3022 N. Roosevelt Blvd., in Big Pine at MM30 or in Marathon at MM53.5 Gulfside.

Download our

Mobile App

*Annual percentage rate. Subject to credit approval. Restrictions may apply. Offer valid for balance transfers from the date of first transfer. After that, a variable APR up to 18% will apply, based on your credit history and card selection. Limited to balances transferred from other financial institutions within the first 6 months of card issuance. Refer to the Visa Credit Card Disclosure for terms and conditions. Our local military and everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys and their families are welcome to join.

2018-2019 PERFORMING SEASON

What is the dumbest rule at your school? The best? The dumbest rule we have is that we can’t have colorful jackets. The best rule is that we can go on our phones during lunch.

What is something you know now that you didn’t know when you were a freshman? ICS is a revolving door of people.

What organizations and activities are you involved with at ICS and why are they important to you? Key Club, so I can help people.

What are your plans after high school? I know I want to go to college, but I don’t know what for or where.

FREE OUTDOOR BAND CONCERT • 4PM

Saturday, Dec. 15 Holiday Suite Treats Guest Performers: Burton Ringers

A SANTer e!

will be th

ICE Amphitheater

at Founders Park, Islamorada • Bayside, MM 87

Free Admission • Outdoors: Bring a Blanket or Lawn Chair Fun-filled Family Entertainment

— New Band Members Welcome — Co-sponsored by the Parks and Recreation Department, Village of Islamorada, with support from Islamorada Community Entertainment

305-451-4530 • w w w . k e y s c o m m u n i t y c o n c e r t b a n d . o r g

What is one favorite way to spend your spare time? Reading or petting my dogs.

Will you make the Keys your permanent home? Why or why not? I don’t know about my permanent home, but if I were ever rich enough, I would love to get a second home here.

What three things would you like to accomplish before your 10-year reunion? Graduate from college, know what I want to do with my life and have a group of people who will stay in my life for a long time.

JUNIOR

Save with 2.9%APR* for the first 6 months, NO annual fee, FREE Balance Transfers and FREE Cash Advances on Keys Visa Rewards Credit Cards.

DIANA VELIZAROFF

Who is your all-time favorite teacher and why? I have way too many favorite teachers, but my favorite high school teacher has to be Mr. Roper.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Now offering Dockside Cakes

U N D E R N E W L O C A L F A M I LY OW N E R S H I P

Not Your Typical Flower Shop Come check out our unique gift selection for all the special people on your holiday list!

Monday - Friday 9AM-5PM, Saturday 9AM-1PM 99551 Overseas Highway • Key Largo, Fl 33037 www.keylargoflorist.com • 305 451-3702

Key Largo Christmas at your local Kmart!

Get everything you need to deck the halls and find great gift ideas for everyone on your list, naughty or nice!

Find us at Tradewinds Plaza 101499 Overseas Hwy Key Largo, Florida MM101 305 451-5017

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ADVERTISEMENT

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Christopher Elwell “I think the design is just perfect for this unique development. The buyers will be the ones enjoying an inside and outside lifestyle to include boating, swimming, and relaxing at the end of a long, fun day. The interior design will allow them to be very proud of their interior design, yet feel casual enough to relax and put their feet up when need be.”

The Most Exclusive Luxury Properties in The Florida Keys

I

n a place renowned for its luxurious vacation homes, the developers of The Reserve at Sombrero Beach have upped the ante by requesting the services of esteemed designer, Christopher Elwell, owner of Royal Furniture and Design.

With his extensive background dating back to 1990, Elwell has designed, remodeled, and repositioned thousands of homes throughout the Florida Keys, Key West and the country. Known for his can-do attitude and amazing attention to detail, Christopher has been a long sought- after designer for owners looking for a visionary’s touch.

Mr. Elwell was tasked with not only the interior design but identifying “the vision” for the Elysium Residence, located at 449 Sombrero Beach Rd; the first Estate Villa being offered at The Reserve. (“Elysium”) meaning Paradise and the tone setter for Elwell’s vision, Christopher explains, “by choosing a ‘Coastal Chic’ design, I thought ‘you’re in paradise’ and I want you to feel that, not only outside your home, but also continue that feeling inside. We are bringing the outside in and taking advantage of the amazing views of the water and the lush landscaping.”

When you pull up to The Reserve at Sombrero Beach, the developers want you to expect something spectacular. The furniture, all selected by Royal Furniture and Design, is a mixture of upholstered fabric pieces, distressed woods in multiple finishes and some brushed metal accents.

It feels very coastal chic, elegant, yet comfortable.

Elwell says, “I think the design is just perfect for this unique development. The buyers will be the ones enjoying an inside and outside lifestyle to include boating, swimming, and relaxing at the end of a long, fun day. The interior will allow them to be very proud of their interior design, yet feel casual enough to relax and put their feet up when need be. The coastal chic décor will make them feel comfortable and relaxed whether they are entertaining friends or using the home themselves.”

The developer of The Reserve declares, “We are very excited to have Chris working on the Elysium Residence and know how extremely talented he is at walking into a completely empty room and transforming it into a great livable space. Given his background with homes in the Keys, we knew he would be a perfect fit, and would be able to give our clients exactly the comfort and aesthetic level they are looking for when buying in the Keys.”

The Reserve at Sombrero Beach | TheNewHomeSpot.com

21

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Elysium THE

RESIDENCE

305.735.4682 MARATHON, FL Professionally Designed and Furnished

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New Construction, Gated Community, Vacation Rentals Allowed.

$1.25 M (fully furnished)

449 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon, FL | TheNewHomeSpot.com

22

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

HOLIDAY SPIRIT Crowd packs park for festivities JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

T

he forecast for Dec. 7 at Founders Park held up, between the snow, the activity and the holiday spirit that filled the bazaar. The 14th annual Islamorada Chamber of Commerce Holiday Fest saw many families and children enjoying the activities — notably the snow mountain that featured 30 tons of cold white stuff.

Children flocked to the snow pile, climbing to the top, sliding down and making snowballs. Parents stood around the mountain, watching and recording their children having a blast. The evening also featured the lighting of the 35-foot tree, the parade with the theme “Holiday Magic and Wonder” and pictures with Santa. Activities included a gingerbread house contest, crafts, face painting, a Santa Paws pet parade, Mister Gingerbread Man and Miss Sugarplum Fairy contests and performances by students of On Your Toes Dance Studio.

1 2

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly 1. Festival-goers were dressed for the holidays, including Chip and Joanne Futch and their dog Carly.

2. Children flock to one of the festival’s main attractions: the snow mountain.

3. A young girl throws a snowball at the snowman target along the beach.

4. Children get their Christmas wishes in to Santa Claus, who was busy all evening listening and posing for pictures.

3

5. Children pick out holiday treats at the candy apple tent.

5

4

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

THEY’VE PROVED WHAT THEY’RE MADE OF, AND IT’S ALL HEART. AND BEARDS.

LAST MINUTE GIFT IDEA! Give the gift of a unique culinary experience!

Uncorked...

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the KEY LARGO & ISLAMORADA

Grand Tasting A multi-sensory experience Fine Cuisine and World Class Wines

Saturday, January 19 11 AM to 4 PM Postcard Inn at Holiday Isle Mile Marker 84, Islamorada In Advance, Online: $65 General Admission $90 VIP Admission (plus tax). At the gate - add $10.

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www.FloridaKeysUncorked.com NON-FOOD VENDORS WELCOME - GO TO THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO

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Thank You Riva Watersports for the wonderful BBQ & Chili Throwdown event that benefitted Treasure Village Montessori and brought so many smiles to all the kids who attended.

Together we will reach our fundraising goals and provide wonderful extensions for our students in the classroom.

(305) 289-9515

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FISHING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

COOL AND WARM D Action reminiscent of years before 2010

CAPT. MATT BELLINGER is owner and operator of Bamboo Charters in Islamorada.

Bellinger has a live fishing report that airs daily on three radio shows on two stations in the Florida Keys.

ecember has been interesting so far; we’ve had cold winterlike fronts followed by hot summer days with slicked off calm sea conditions. And the mix of fish out there will amaze any fisherman. This “Between Time” offers great opportunities for those wanting a little bit of everything.

Cooler water temps in the backcountry of Florida Bay have ushered in an incredible influx of redfish and snook! I’m getting reports from area guides and locals alike that the action is reminiscent of the action from before 2010. It has become the norm to hear of catches in the range of 30 to 50 snook or redfish on bait and fly tackle and the really wonderful thing to hear is that these fish are in the juvenile size range of 12 to 18 inches.

This is very encouraging news to hear. This push of new fish to the area holds hope for the future of Florida Bay. Let’s pray that water conditions are healthy enough for them to stay and prosper.

Sea trout fishing has been up and down in that they’ve not been in their usual haunts and that their size has been up and down. The bait of choice right now is live shrimp and soft plastics that mimic shrimp in size or shape. The island moats around the backcountry are very productive and working around the island until you hook up has been the plan. The gear you’ll need is simple. I use a 7-foot, 8-12 pound spinning set up with a Daiwa BG 3500 reel spooled up with Spider Wire Invisa braid 10-pound line. My terminal tackle is 3 feet of 30 pounds mono or fluorocarbon leader with a quarter to three-eighths ounce chartreuse jig head ties on. This is my go-to setup for the backcountry until we are looking to tussle with sharks and tarpon; that’s when the big sticks come out and we get medieval on these beasts!

This time of year the waters of the Gulf of Mexico get going strong.

The Spanish mackerel show up as well as cobia, pompano, sharks and all types of snapper. The bite is easy to find and all it takes is setting up a chum slick into the current in 8-12 feet of water and start chuckin’ jigs tipped with shrimp into the slick. It really is simple; if, after 20 minutes or so, you’ve not been jumped by an angry pile of fish, make a move. The areas around the Banks like Sprigger, Schooner and Oxfoot hold fish all winter; it’s as easy as looking for a cluster of a few boats anchored up and then setting up a respectable distance from them and their chum slick.

Bluewater and reef action is a wild mix right now on the Atlantic side of the island chain. The reef is on fire right now with all the snapper action you want and don’t be surprised when a fired-up electric blue sailfish crashes the party going on in your chum slick! The baitfish that show up are going to offer an easy target to these speedsters and you need to be ready. The majority of the action will be in that body of water between the 20- and 200-foot depths. This corridor is like a bait conveyor belt and wahoo, sailfish, kings, tuna and dolphin will be working it hard.

A trout catch.

A snook catch./ MATT BELLINGER/Keys Weekly

Dreams do come true when out fishing.

A sea trout catch.

LOCAL CHATTER

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

The days are ticking away for shoppers who try to find that gift that’ll make friends and loved ones go “wow.” As we get closer to unwrapping the gifts, the Weekly asked individuals:

WHAT’S THE WORST GIFT YOU RECEIVED ON CHRISTMAS? “ I got a Raggedy Ann toothbrush holder from my boyfriend in kindergarten. I kept it till I was 18 and decided to sell it in a yard sale. He came by and bought it.” — Betsy Paste

“When I was 16 my grandmother came over from England. She brought me a Barbie.” — Saran Miller

“A Diet Cookbook, enough said.”

— Kim Rock

“Socks and underwear!”

— Video Dave

“My husband gave me an old tuba.

He saw it in a pawn shop and thought it was pretty.” — Susie Ptomey

BEACH ’N’ BEER

Participants drink, run at Robbie’s The drinks were flowing as the legs were churning at Robbie’s on Dec. 8. Participants chug a single beer during the start of the Islamorada Half Marathon & 10K’s Beach and Beer Mile run, which is becoming a favorite among locals and tourists who wanted to add a little fun in their run by drinking four beers in a mile. DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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BUSINESS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

ECO-SAFE SUNSCREEN

Skin care products reef-safe JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

O

n the store shelves sit numerous products for consumers who look to stay protected from the sun.

While they may do the job in preventing sunburn and cancer, some aren’t succeeding on the eco-friendly side.

There’s a product, however, that’s succeeding on both sides. Deemed eco-conscious and reef-safe, Stream2Sea body products not only stave off sunburn, but also protect coral reefs and the marine environment. Products in the Stream2Sea line have gone through testing to ensure there’s no negative impact to the environment.

Autumn Blue is the founder and formulator of Stream2Sea. She’s a natural products cosmetic chemist who’s been formulating natural skin care products for more than 20 years.

What prompted action was her first dive in Palau, where she noticed a sunscreen oil slick coming off a group of snorkelers.

After getting back on the boat, she said, she read the ingredients of the sunscreen and shampoo most people were using on board. She said she immediately knew the ingredients shouldn’t be put on bodies, let along dumped into the ecosystem.

“I knew we could do better,” Blum said. “I came home, quit my job and spent the next year developing Stream2Sea. Before bringing my line to market, I had them independently tested for biodegradability in fresh water and salt water, and aquatic safety for fresh-water fish, salt-water fish and coral larvae. We launched late 2015 and have been growing rapidly due to conscious consumers spreading our message throughout the Florida Keys and the world.”

Many products claim to be reefsafe. But “reef-safe” isn’t a government-regulated term.

One of the more harmful ingredients in sunscreen is benzophenone-2, or BP-2. It’s known to be highly toxic to corals.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Centers For Coastal Science, even very low concentrations of BP-2 can quickly kill juvenile corals.

NOAA says BP-2 is an additive used in personal care products since the 1960s

SUNSCREEN FACTS Stream2Sea says a sunscreen that’s biodegradable isn’t always safe if it contains oxybenzone, octyl methoxycinnamate and other harsh ingredients. In some instances, ingredients like oxybenzone break down into components that are even more harmful that the original compound.

Stream2Sea says to avoid products with benzophenone-3, or oxybenzone, avobenzone, cycopentasiloxane, formaldehyde, homosalate, methylisothiazolinone, nanoparticles, octocylene, octinoxate, parabens, phthalates, retyinyl palmitate, sodium lauryl and zinc oxide.

to protect against ultraviolet light’s damaging effects.

“Because reef safety has become so popular, mainstream companies are removing oxybenzone and octinoxate, and declaring them as ‘reef-safe,” Blum said. “Oxybenzone and octinoxate have been proven harmful, but the conscious consumer should also learn to read the ingredient labels and avoid ingredients like parabens, octocrylene and avobenzone, instead choosing products with non-nano titanium dioxide or non-nano zinc oxide.”

Found at local shops and online, Stream2Sea product formulas are biodegradable in fresh and salt water.

Core ingredients include an active, nutrient-rich antioxidant blend of organic wakame, green tea, tulsi and olive leaf. Manufactured in the U.S., it’s the only sunscreen tested to be nontoxic to freshwater fish, saltwater fish C. elegans and coral larvae.

Anya Ellis, owner of Scuba-Fun in Key Largo, said a growing number of watersports operators and retailers from Key Largo to Key West provide non-toxic sunscreens like Stream2Sea. Ellis says the industry, in order to keep selling sunscreens with toxic chemicals, attributes all reef decline to global warming; but scientists have studied and confirmed the negative effects of sunscreen toxins on reefs, fish, mammals and humans.

“I sincerely hope that there will be a ban on sunscreens that contain oxybenzone and/or octinoxate and other toxins in the Florida Keys, like there is in Hawaii,” Ellis said. “I’m an avid diver and love our reefs, and it hurts me to know that avoidable harm is being done that endangers nature, our livelihood and our legacy to our children.”

Stream2Sea offers sunscreen, tinted sunscreen, sun and sting relief gel, body lotion, lip balm, leave-in conditioner as well as shampoo and body wash. Even the sunscreen tube is ecofriendly, made from recycled products.

More information is at stream2sea.com.

To learn more about what local governments are doing to ban harmful sunscreens in the Keys, see next page.

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

27

SALE OF SUNSCREENS JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

Local leaders keep an eye on Key West

I

t was earlier in the summer when Hawaii Governor David Ige signed a bill that banned sale of sunscreens containing substances proven to be toxic to the environment. The bill, passed by Hawaii lawmakers in May, will go into effect in January 2021.

One of the influential forces behind the bill’s approval was Craig Downs, a forensic ecotoxicologist and executive director of Haereticus Environmental Laboratory. Downs’ research found that oxybenzone in sunscreen contaminates not only coral, but also fish, marine mammals, bird eggs and sea turtle eggs.

Earlier this month, Downs was in Key West as the city commission there mulled a bill to enact a similar ban. As he spoke in favor of the ban, Downs noted how the toxic sunscreens affect the environment as well as tourism, property values and taxation. Representatives from the cosmetics and sunscreen industry were in attendance and spoke to the benefits of oxybenzone-based sunscreens and how it protects against sun damage and skin cancer. The commission ultimately decided to postpone a vote until January.

With Key West considering a ban, the Weekly asked Islamorada Mayor Deb Gillis and Monroe Board of County Commissioner’s Mayor Sylvia Murphy about the matter.

Murphy said she hadn’t heard of any ban until just recently when it was brought up during the discussion portion of Key Largo’s District Advisory Committee by Anya Ellis, board member and Stream2Sea advocate. While Murphy waits to see what Key West does, she said she’d love to see a statewide ban. Right now, Murphy said the county’s dealing with other issues, such as hurricane recovery and figuring out ROGO. In Islamorada, Gillis is asking staff to keep an eye on Key West as it works through a possible ban. Personally, Gillis said, there has to be balance between sunscreen that protects people from melanoma and protecting coral.

“I’d love to try and do something; the corals are suffering,” Gillis said. “I asked staff to let me know how that progresses in Key West to see if we could follow suit and what the findings are.”

During Downs’ presentation in Key West, he noted that 99 percent of the Florida Keys’ coral coverage has died in the last 50 years. Downs cited oxybenzone levels in water samples taken at Fort Zachary Taylor. Eight other scientific groups corroborated Downs’ research.

Dr. Kurt Reynertson, of Johnson & Johnson’s Regulatory and Stewardship Policy Department, noted that more research is “crucial.”

“I understand the concern,” he said. “We want to be sure that we’re doing the right thing.”

The Marathon Weekly also contacted Mayor John Bartus.

He said he’s not aware of any sunscreen initiative at the moment, but that he would look into it.

Bette Zirkelbach carries one of the sick turtles to the waiting Turtle Hospital ambulances at Marathon airport. SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

MARATHON RECEIVES 32 ‘STUNNERS’ Cold-stunned turtles arrive from New England SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

E

ver wonder how sick and cold turtles are transported? The answer is by private plane, in banana boxes, covered with bath towels.

Thirty-two Kemp’s ridley sea turtles arrived at the Marathon airport on Dec. 11. The turtles were stranded in Massachusetts after the stunning cold of Winter Storm Diego earlier this week. Rescued by the New England Aquarium in Boston, they were sent to the Florida Keys to be rehabilitated.

“Thankfully only two were in critical condition and those are in shallow water. The rest are in the large tank and doing well,” said the Turtle Hospital’s Bette Zirkelbach. “Only about half of them were really sick. The other half were already eating.”

The turtle’s medical records were emailed ahead of their arrival, and each turtle was marked with a day-glo orange number.

“As with patients in a hospital, we need to be able to identify the individual,” Zirkelbach said. “There’s a reason for those numbers.”

Zirkelback said the situation in the Northeast is dire.

“They are reporting more than 700 turtles dead, but they can’t keep up with the count,” she said.

Zirkelbach praised the coordinated effort to get the sick turtles to Marathon, including the ability to track the

plane. “We had the tail numbers and used flightaware.com. … It’s a little like the way everyone tracks Santa on Christmas Eve.” The turtles were delivered courtesy of pilot Chuck Yankee in coordination with Turtles Fly Too, a nonprofit.

Representative Sophia Costa said more flights to other destinations also are in the works to get all the cold-stunned turtles to treatment.

“I just finished flying three wolves on Monday,” said Yankee, adding tongue-in-cheek that he had his wife’s permission to make the turtle trip in his Pilatus PC-12. The trek started on Dec. 10 in Thomasville, Georgia, one of Yankee’s homeports. He picked up his co-pilot Mike Lalley in Atlanta, and then they flew to Marshfield, Mass. They made a stop to refuel before continuing on to Marathon.

How were the passengers?

“Pretty quiet. They flapped their flippers a little at the beginning but that was it,” he said, cheerfully.

ABOUT KEMP’S TURTLES Kemp’s ridley sea turtles are named after Key West’s Richard Moore Kemp (1825-1908). He was the first to send a specimen to Samuel Garman at Harvard in 1880. An avid naturalist and fisherman, he lived at 601 Caroline Street, now the Cypress House Hotel. William Kemp, brother of Richard, introduced the sponge industry from Key West to the New York market and they became prosperous from this business.

The etymology of the name “ridley” itself is unknown.

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Open Daily 11-9pm 8919 Overseas Hwy 305-743-3131 sweetsavannahs.com

Ho

lid Sh ay op Gi Loc ft a l s in St o

ck

Vintage Toys Kitchen Ware Gifts for Girls + Boys

Salt Scrub Key West Aloe Swig Cups

Pre-Order Dessert Baskets Sugar Cookies

WILDLIFE

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

29

OPEN FOR LUNCH, HAPPY HOUR & DINNER 7 DAYS A WEEK! 11AM – 10PM DAILY

WE HAVE EXPANDED OUR MENU!!

VOTED BEST HAPPY HOUR 10 YEARS IN A ROW & BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE!

SATURDAY & SUNDAY Regular Menu Available and BRUNCH items including Chorizo Breakfast Burrito, Guava French Toast, Crab Benedict and BOGO Mimosas and Glasses of Champagne 11am - 4pm Visitors speak with Jordan Budnik, left, Florida Keys Wild Bird Center executive director, inside Mission Wild Bird in Tavernier. Also pictured is Quaker the parrot. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

AVIAN REHAB

Center helping birds, educating public JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

W

ith its sanctuary and hospital, the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is coming to the aid of birds in need while educating the public about the different species.

Standing inside the rehab center in Tavernier on Dec. 6, Executive Director Jordan Budnik welcomed in a few visitors with Quaker the parrot on her shoulder. While he loves attention, Budnik tells the visitors, he can be a bit aggressive.

“He’ll look at you with a really sweet voice,” she says. “You extend your hard and he bites you. If he likes one of you he might fly on your shoulder. He won’t harm you at all, though.”

The bird center, a nonprofit conservation organization, puts its focus on rescuing, rehabbing and releasing native and migratory wild birds that either were harmed or displaced. As for Quaker, he can’t be let back into the wild since he’s not a native to Florida.

Strict federal and state laws disallow the release of invasive species.

A mile and half north sits the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, where visitors can get a glimpse of 94 non-releasable birds representing 40 different species. Open to the public

from sunrise to sunset every day of the year, the sanctuary features songbirds, birds of prey and pelagic birds – gulls, pelicans, cormorants and the like.

At Mission Wild Bird’s hospital, people are bringing in injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife. A TDC grant was given to the center in 2014 to construct a hospital for birds. Budnik says they were originally rehabbing out of an old building at the sanctuary.

“This is now state-of-the-art,” she said. “We’ve got an X-ray room, which is pretty awesome for a rehabilitation center.”

According to Budnik, most injuries to birds stem from domestic pet attacks and window strikes during the migration season in the spring and fall.

“With migration season, it’s huge because we’ve got hundreds of very tiny birds flying down south,” she said.

“They don’t understand that glass is a thing.”

Another issue they see is “bird napping,” or when people see a baby bird and think it needs help. But in reality, it’s fine.

“It’s learning how to fly,” Budnik said. “In those cases, they’re fine.”

More information is at keepthemflying.org.

SUNDAY LIVE NIGHT! MUSIC Spaghetti and Meatballs

Tues - Thurs

DAILY SPECIALS

Fried Green Tomato B.L.T. Wood-Fired Pizzas

IT’S FOOTBALL SEASON!

WE WIL COOK YOUL R CATCH! FISH or LOBST

ER!

www.sparkyslanding.com 305-363-2959 MM 53.5 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida Waterfront Location Adjacent To Holiday Inn Express

30

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

NICE DAY FOR A RUN Large turnout for half marathon and 10K

O

n Dec. 9, runners came out in large numbers for the fourth annual Islamorada Half Marathon and 10K. After many compliments from participants last year, the event returned to Robbie’s in Islamorada as the host location. The half marathon and 10K course was a scenic one from the moment runners made the walk over the bridge with views of both the ocean and bay.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 1. Participants of the Islamorada Half Marathon & 10K run south on U.S. 1 just north of Robbie’s in Islamorada on Dec. 9.

1 2

4

2. Alison Wheatley, 8, looks for her father Troy Wheatley, not pictured, as he runs the Islamorada Half Marathon & 10K. 3. Raul Montero, of Boca Raton, pours water on his head after completing his first half marathon.

4. Marta Ferrer kisses her husband Alex Ferrer before she sets out to run.

5. Participants of the Islamorada Half Marathon & 10K run south on U.S. 1 just north of Robbie’s.

5

3

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

31

END OF SEASON Party says farewell to hurricanes for 2018

The inaugural Neptune Ball on Nov. 30 at Islamorada Gardens features an aerial performer, among other entertainment. The cause for celebration was the end of hurricane season. The Neptune Ball included live music, food, mermaid face painting and more. At midnight, people gathered for the burning of the hurricane sculpture to mark the official end of hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. CHARLES FULCO/Contributed

Award Winning Tap Water*

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Happy Holidays from your friends at The Lorelei!

305-664-2692 www.loreleicabanabar.com

Private Parties 305-664-2692 Live Entertainment Nightly Florida Keys Best Fishing Guides Happy Hour 4-6pm, 7 nights a week

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Request a quote today • 954.791.3800 • sales@bradford-marine.com See our video • bradford-marine.com/docks

32

BOOKS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

CHRISTMAS FANATIC

Author documents yearlong celebration in book

F

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

“I thought to myself, ‘Every Christmas season we watch all these movies like “Scrooge” that say we need to keep the Christmas spirit going and alive. What if we really did try to keep Christmas yearround?’”

lorida youth pastor Jason Korsiak just wasn’t ready to take down the holiday decorations following a Christmas in July party with friends.

“I thought to myself, ‘Man I don’t know if I want to take this down,’” he said during a recent signing at Islamorada Library for his book “Christmas Addict.” “I thought to myself, ‘Every Christmas season we watch all these movies like ‘Scrooge’ that say we need to keep the Christmas spirit going and alive. What if we really did try to keep Christmas year-round?’”

Once a month from July 2016 to July 2017, Korsiak celebrated Christmas. What began as a celebration in secret eventually became gatherings with friends and family. Korsiak said he realized that Christmas is very much about togetherness and family, and that he needed to pull others into his madness.

“I found ways of introducing it to friends and family by having dinners and doing things for each other,” he said. “It was amazing to see how those little things really did make everybody a bit more patient and a bit more kind.”

Korsiak, a Queens native who grew up in Lakeland, is the author of seven books. He attended Rochelle School of the Arts before moving to Florida’s

Jason Korsiak holds his book, ‘Christmas Addict,’ at Islamorada Library. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

Nature Coast where he currently resides. Korsiak graduated from Saint Leo University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in religion.

A professional guest speaker for 11 years, he’s given speeches at churches, including Burton Memorial United Methodist, graduations and local state colleges. He serves as youth pastor of Joining Hands Mission United Methodist Church in New Port Richey.

Korsiak said what originally inspired his Christmas celebration for a year goes back to his time serving as a youth pastor and a music director for a church. Every year, Korsiak would put on big Christmas in July events. He resigned and started to focus more on writing and speaking. It was during that time that he missed putting on the big July event.

Looking back at his Christmasfor-a-year experience, Korsiak said it became hard to keep the celebration going. July to December was no issue, but once February, March and Easter rolled around, that became a different story.

“It became an effort,” he said. “But I believe Christmas is about effort, stepping out of your comfort zone and trying a little harder to show people you care just a little bit more.”

One of the main takeaways from the book, according to Korsiak, is there’s reason to celebrate and there’s joy to find even when people aren’t looking for it — and even when they don’t want it. Korsiak says he hopes readers will get some laughs and gain some insights. He also hopes people find encouragement to try a little bit harder to find joy when it is in short supply.

“We talk about family and togetherness, but Christmas is a hard time for some people,” he said. “There’s a lot of sad people and a lot of lonely people who don’t want to celebrate. It takes that above-and-beyond effort to find Christmas cheer when you don’t want to.”

“Christmas Addict” is recommended for teenagers and up. The book can be purchased on his website, korsiak. net, Amazon or BarnesandNoble.com.

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

BRIEFLY

Mainstreaming Firefighters bring Santa, seek Toys for Tots

Deputies are watching: don’t drink and drive The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office will be out in force watching out for drunk and unsafe drivers during December with the goal of making sure holiday travel is as safe as possible here in the Florida Keys.

Deputies will be concentrating on drunk drivers, improper passing and other unsafe driving practices throughout the season.

The sheriff’s office urges the use of designated drivers or cabs. Those arrested for drinking and driving will spend a night in jail, the sheriff’s office says.

Nominations due for volunteer of the year Nominations are due Saturday, Dec. 15 for the 2019 Unsung Heroes, presented by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. All Monroe County 501(c)(3) organizations may nominate their Volunteer of the Year for recognition, which will take place at a luncheon on Jan. 25. Entries are limited to the first 100 organizations that submit nominations. The nomination form and more information is at cffk. org or 305-292-1502.

The Islamorada Fire Rescue Department staff and Islamorada Firefighters Benevolent Association volunteers will be driving Santa Claus and his carolers through the streets of the Islamorada on Sunday, Dec. 16.

An Islamorada fire truck will give Santa a ride. His first stop is at the Islamorada Mobil on Lower Matecumbe Key at 5:30 p.m.

From there, Santa will travel north through the village, stopping at 16 more locations from Lower Matecumbe Key to Plantation Key. Check out the schedule and meet Santa at one of his neighborhood stops in Islamorada. If you have a new, unwrapped toy to donate Toys for Tots program, this is a great opportunity to give your toy to Santa and help a child experience more joy this Christmas. The toys will be distributed to children in the Keys.

Plastic-debris artist to speak Dec. 17

Flagpole dedication, holiday party Dec. 20

Miller’s Village has a free Santa’s village completely decked out with lights, decorations and a live Santa every Friday and Saturday night. It is open to the community free of charge to come walk around and take pictures with Santa at no cost from 6 to 9 p.m.

The events include a free Santa party on Saturday, Dec. 15. offering refreshments and candy canes from 6 to 9 p.m.

The public is invited to the dedication of the flagpole by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce on Dec. 20 at 4:30 p.m., followed by the chamber’s annual holiday party reception, at the Chamber office, 106000 Overseas Highway.

Thanks to chamber member Robert Stuart, the flagpole dedication is the first phase of a planned veterans memorial garden. The flagpoles honor military, first responders, veterans and all those who have fallen in the line of duty, and the ceremony is the chamber’s way to thank their families for their service.

Those attending should RSVP by Dec. 17 to the chamber at 305-4511414.

A look at what they're doing on the mainland

COOL STUFF

WATCH | ‘Avengers: Endgame‘ trailer The war of all wars continues. Just recently, the trailer came out for “Avengers: Endgame.” The two-minute and 26-second video begins with a shot of Iron Man looking at his mangled helmet. The movie’s set to come out in April 2019. In the aftermath of Thanos wiping out half of all life in the universe, the remaining Avengers must do what’s necessary to undo the Mad Titan’s deed.

On Monday, Dec. 17 at 5 p.m., Victoria Cassar, a plastic-debris artist and Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) intern, will be giving a presentation titled “Wasting Better: Rethinking out throw-away culture” at CRF, 5 Seagate Blvd. The event will include wine, snacks, and a Zero Waste workshop. This talk will discuss the growing Zero Waste movement, tips for transitioning to this lifestyle, and the economic model it would take for us to stop throwing things “away.” Attendees will have the chance to win Zero Waste freebies, and make plastic-free body scrub.

Miller’s Village hosts Santa party Dec. 15

33

BUY | Fitbit Versa Smartwatch Still looking for gifts for loved ones? One of the top holiday gifts of 2018 is the Fitbit Versa Smartwatch. For $200 on Amazon, Fitbit says to live your best life with the health & fitness smartwatch that lasts four-plus days on battery and features 24/7 heart rate, phone-free music, apps, coaching and more. The watch comes in black, peach and silver.

READ | ‘The Little Black Book of Workout Motivation’ With a title like that, you might be expecting a pretty picture book with fancy-font quotes interspersed with tips like “Drink a smoothie!” or “Get more vitamins.”

Instead, author Michael Matthews’ book is a pretty philosophical and scientific look at what makes us humans tick, and how to think to achieve better results at anything, including fitness. It doesn’t sugarcoat the hard truths and, early on, urges readers to embrace “the suck” of grinding out the work.

Matthews also addresses setting goals, being positive but not too positive. Available for $7 to $15.

34

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

NOW HIRING Full or Part Time Guest Services Answer phones, take reservations, greet customers with a smile.

Cashier responsibilities, must be able to multi task.

Part Time Café Help Duties include taking orders from customers, handling cash, cooking and serving.

Must be 18 yrs. or older.

Full or Part Time Dive Instructor Responsible for safely guiding guests through in-water encounters.

Part Time Morning Landscaping/Maintenance Blowing of property, raking leaves, spraying, occasional trimming of hedges and other maintenance.

Please apply in person at

Aquarium Encounters 11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

NOW HIRING! Monroe County Schools School Day Porter/Maintenance, Night Cleaner

APPLY IN PERSON! Now offering contingent job offers on the spot for qualified applicants PAY STARTS AT $10-13/HOUR Full-Time and Part Time Positions available in Lower Keys schools BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO FULL TIME EMPLOYEES AFTER MANDATORY WAITING APPLY AT: Key West High School. 2100 Flagler Ave, Key West FL 33040 305-900-7337 305-900-7336 ABM IS AN EOE (MINORITY / FEMALE / VETERAN / DISABILITY / GENDER IDENTITY / SEXUAL ORIENTATION) Job offers are contingent on the satisfactory results of a background check and fingerprint report. Qualified applicants must be at least 18 years of age and must be authorized in the USA. Shift assignment may be subject to previous experience and/or staffing needs.

Immediate opening for a HVAC Service Technician Upper & Middle Keys.

Great Pay • Paid Holidays • Sick Pay • Medical Insurance • Paid Vacation

Apply in person 171 Hood Ave • MM 91.5 • Tavernier p 305-852-2960 • f 305-852-0656

The Hammocks at Marathon

Bungalows Key Largo is hiring now!

Come see us if you have a passion for guest service and hospitality!

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE Apply online at:

www.noblehousehotels.com/careers

or at: 99198 Overseas Hwy#7 Key Largo, FL 33037

FULL TIME JOB OPPORTUNITIES $1,000 Sign-on Bonus!

• Housekeeper

GREAT BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 4 Weeks Paid Time Off 401(k) with Company Match & much more

TO APPLY: Online > jobs.bluegreenvacations.com In Person > The Hammocks at Marathon 1688 Overseas Highway, Gulf Side, Mile Marker 48, Marathon Or Call > Andre at 305.743.9009

eoe

Emergency Communications’ Radio System Technician-MARATHON Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is seeking applicant that can perform daily operations of the Communications Shop. Responding to tasks, scheduling work, ordering of parts and supplies. Perform repairs and maintenance on radios and 800 MHz radio system. Vocational or technical school preferred, or 3 to 5 years of experience in the RF repair field. FCC General Radiophone License and amateur radio license is preferred.

Starting salary is $44,107.00. Applicants must fill out preliminary application at www.keysso.net. Please email resumes to cslebodnick@keysso.net or fax resumes to (305) 292-7159. Charles Slebodnick may be contacted at (305) 292-7044. EOE/AAP

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine, Key West and Stock Island Locations

ASSISTANT MANAGERS $12-$16 per hour

MANAGER TRAINEES $30-50K per year, based on experience

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

for the following positions:

Truck Helpers CDL Drivers Diesel Mechanics Applicants must apply in person to be considered.

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Join our team! Full and part-time Educational Program Guides/Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. Send resume to: turtlehosp@aol.com

Immediate Openings available at all locations.

FT Employees are eligible to participate in our health, dental, vision, Life Insurance. PTO and Profit Sharing is available to every member of our team (conditions apply).

HOW TO APPLY: Go to mytomthumb.com or call Cleveland (786) 295-5307.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

35

INVITATION TO BID

Both full or part time positions available at Hyatt Place at Faro Blanco Resort.

Line Cook, Banquet Servers, Host, Housekeepers, Dock Hand, Night Auditor, and Food Runners.

OCEAN KEY RESORT & SPA IS HIRING!

Excellent Benefit Package Apply in person at 1996 Overseas Highway or online at www.spottswood.com

Sous Chef

EOE/m/f/d/v

PM Line Cook

Reservations Agent

EOE m/f/d/v

JOB OPENINGS

SpaTerre Welcome Desk Coordinator

BANQUET SERVER GUEST SERVICE AGENT TELEPHONE AGENT NIGHT AUDITOR

Relief Night Auditor

Apply online at: noblehousehotels.com/careers Or in person at: Zero Duval St. Come see why our employees love to call Ocean Key home!

Great pay, amazing benefits, & an awesome team!

EOE

Sealed bids will be received by Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority at its Purchasing Office located at 7000 Front St, Key West (Stock Island), Florida, until 2:00 P.M., December 18, 2018 at which time and place they will be publicly read aloud. Such bids shall be for the sale of the following: SURPLUS VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT AND TRAILERS

Licensed Nail Technician PT Boutique Sales Agent

FKAA-IFB-0002-19 SALE OF SURPLUS VEHICLES, TRAILERS AND EQUIPMENT

Excellent Benefit Package EOE M/F/D/V Apply on line at Spottswood.com/careers

SURPLUS VEHICLES, EQUIPMENT, AND TRAILERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW ON THE FOLLOWING DATES AND TIMES December 13th & 14th 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. 470 Overseas Hwy. Big Coppitt Key, FL As contained in documents on file at the office of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, Finance Division, Purchasing Department, 7000 Front St., Key West (Stock Island), Florida 33040. Minimum bids are required. Any questions should be directed to David Jackson, Purchasing Manager, in writing via email to djackson@fkaa.com.

The Governing Board of Directors of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority reserves the right to reject any and all bids, in whole or in part, to waive any irregularities or informalities in any bid, and to award to any party considered to be in the best interest of the Authority.

SCAN FOR JOB

CROSSWORD

Career Opportunities Key West Assistant Branch Manager-Winn Dixie Full & Part Time Tellers Treasury Management Representative II APPLY ONLINE @ KeysBank.com/Careers Offering: 401K, 401A, profit sharing, health/dental plans, educational reimbursement, short/long-term disability, life insurance, paid time off, and holidays for full-time employees.

Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender • EOE-M/F/V/D

Tuesday December 18th @ 11AM 2171 N Dixie Hwy., Pompano Beach, FL 33060 Preview begins @ 9AM morning of sale

YEAR END BLOW OUT AUCTION Help us clear out our 2018 inventory!

New & Used Restaurant Equipment, Contents of Pizzeria, 1,2 & 3 Door Glass Coolers, Freezers, Griddles, Slicers, Char-Broilers, Fryers, Asst. Sandwich & Pizza Prep Tables, Under Counters, Work Tops, Zumex Juicer, Small Wares, Pop Corn Machine, Lincoln Impingers Pizza Ovens, Display Cases, Deli Cases, Pastry Cases, Small Wares & More! This month DURING the auction we are also offering refreshments, food and a raffle to give away special prizes!

www.neverettauctions.com Toby Neverett Auctioneers 561-706-7218 * au872 ab628

SOLUTION

The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

KEY LARGO

Crisis Counselor (4277) Peer Support Specialist (4279)

MARATHON

Driver (2995) CDL required Behavioral Health Tech (PT-2282) PGC Drop in Technician (PT-2435) Heron Direct Care Worker (PT-3558) Registered Nurse (PT-4234, 4395) Register Nurse (Per Diem-3799) Care Coordinator (3568) Maintenance Specialist (2437) Peer Specialist (4172) Advocate (4708) License Practical Nurse (2667)

KEY WEST

Adult Behavioral Health Therapist (3566) Child Behavioral Health Counselor (4235) Crisis Counselor (4278)

Background/Drug Screening Required.

TO APPLY: www.westcare.com/page/get-involved_02F Then search location EOE M/F/D/V

SUDOKU SOLUTION

36

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

A Wellings Automotive Company KEY WEST KIA

2826 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Key West, FL (305) 295-8646

www.KeyWestKia.com

Call us and SAVE, SAVE, SAVE

2016 Jeep Compass $13,198 2013 Hyundai Genesis $15,197 2017 Jeep Patriot $15,381 2016 KIA Sportage $15,492

NOW HIRING: SERVICE WRITER SERVICE TECH HABLA ESPAÑOL A PLUS.

2017 Nissan Altima $17,990 2015 Chev Camaro $17,990 2016 Mazda Miata Convertible $19,990 2014 Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel $39,990 MANY MORE TO CHOOSE FROM! All with low miles and ready for quick delivery!

Tax, tag and DOC fee not included in sale price.

WELLINGS AUTOMOTIVE 9200 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL (305) 509-7499 www.KeyWestKia.com

AUTOS WANTED

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $ C A S H $ 3 0 5 - 3 3 2 - 0 4 8 3

Construction Laborer needed in Marathon area. Must have Driver’s License.

Great Pay! 3 0 5 - 3 0 4 - 7 9 9 5

Experienced Help Only needed for all positions.

Apply in person MonFri 10-11am at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, Knights Key Blvd.

Marathon

We buy Cars Trucks SUVs etc.... Anything from $1000 - $100,000. ..CASH.. No Junk. Call Sam 239-595-4021. We come to you.

BOATS FOR SALE Sail 20’ O’Day – Some storm damage, good sails, jib, trailer, 6HP avail. $500.00 15’ Proline Stalker, 75HP w/trailer. $1,000.00 Located in Sugarloaf. 305745-9100

EMPLOYMENT

The Island Gift Shops (Marooned In Marathon 1 & 2) are looking for happy responsible employees to complement our current staff. PART TIME HOURS in a fun environment (good fit for second job) and retirees are welcome! Apply in person at Marooned In Marathon, 11528 Overseas Highway.

Brick paving company needs Construction Supervisor. Must be able to operate a skid steer.

Must have a vehicle & driver’s license. If you’re ready to move up, get the top pay you deserve. 305304-7995

Roofers needed immediately. All types of roofs - mostly metal. Will train motivated person.

Call James at 706-905-5999

Be your own boss! Clean & seal brick pavers. Must have vehicle to tow 6’X10’ trailer. Paid training. 305304-7995

Salon Blanco has job opportunities for a receptionist, massage therapist and nail tech.

Inquire within. Gulfside Village, 5800 O/S Highway, Marathon.

Teacher: Grace Jones in Marathon is looking for a caring, qualified, professional full-time teacher. Please call Iris (305) 743-6064 to set up an appointment.

Groundskeeper/ Maintenance person, part time or full time. $17-$18 hour wage, based on experience.

Sea Isle Condominium, Key Colony Beach.

Apply by e-mail: HardingThomasL@aol. com, or call our office at 305-743-0173.

NOW HIRING: Heavy Equipment Operator needed in the Upper Keys. Contact 305-852-3002 or email: admin@ cbtconstruct.com

E M A R K E T I N G A D M I N I S T R AT I V E ASSISTANT- MARATHON Experienced in all aspects of Microsoft Office and able to multi-task. Social Media knowledge, photo editing experience desired. Full Time Position.

Please email resume to keyshumanresources61@ gmail.com - reference #6489 in email.

BIKE REPAIR NEEDED. Regular maintenance for 8 spin bikes in Marathon. $$. Call 305-775-9909.

FULL TIME POSITION – MARATHON. Data Entry Assistant needed for a leading real estate company.

Good to moderate computer skills (Microsoft Office) required.

Please email resume to keyshumanresources61 @ gmail.com FOOD FOR THOUGHT Organic Cafe hiring kitchen staff. Experience preferred, but willing to train. Apply in person.

5800 O/S Hwy. #23 Marathon MASSAGE ROOM available at Keys Hairmasters. $430/ month. Call Dorothy 305-393-1838.

5701 Overseas Highway, Suite 2, Marathon

City of Marathon - Job Openings: Building Inspector/ Plans Examiner, Building Permit Technician, Parks & Rec. Maintenance Worker and Utilities Maintenance.

EOE FULL BENEFITS Also hiring: Part-time (Temporary) Scanner. w w w. c i . m a r a t h o n . f l . u s Medical Assistant needed for part-time position every Friday from 8am-5pm in our Marathon office. Please call Lisa Voss @ Florida Spine Specialists at 305-294-9680.

Established Criminal Defense Law Office with offices in Marathon and Key West seeking part-time/ full-time secretary that is detail oriented. Position includes scheduling, answering phones, filing, and correspondence with clients. Reliable person with office experience required and knowledge of the legal system a plus.

Please contact 305-2899397 or email a resume to kris@halschuhmacher. com for consideration.

Landscaping company seeking full-time laborers in Marathon. Call 305-395-8294 Open Job Positions: Restaurant Manager, Wait Staff, Bartenders, Kitchen Staff, Apply in person or call for details: Key Colony Inn - Marathon (305) 743-0100 SWEET SAVANNAH’S is now hiring for Afternoon and Evening shifts. Please apply in person 8919 Overseas Hwy. Marathon

HOBBIES/COLLECT. PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive watches and Pilot watches. Old model Military clocks & watches. Call 305-7434 5 7 8 S m a T E HOUSING FOR RENT Long-term rental- Brand new 3 Bedroom home in Marathon.

Oceanview, unfurnished, W/D. Available Jan. 1st.

305-481-7544 Brand New Townhomes For Rent: 41st Street Ocean, Marathon. 3 BR/3 BA, Views of Ocean, Washer and Dryers Included. Pets upon approval. Ready for occupancy January 1st. $2,100.00/month F/L/S 239-476-2301 mike@ mg1fl.com 1BR/1BA House with detached Studio Apartment for rent in Key Largo (near Ramada Inn).

Fenced parking for boat/RV/ 2-3 cars. $1,450/month F/L/S House is for sale-month to month lease. 216-509-4400 1BR/1BA Duplex $1,700/monthly + Utilities.

Centrally located in Islamorada, MM 80, 6 Month L e a s e , First/Security required.

Call 305-664-5023 9am-5pm, M o n - F r i COMMERCIAL SPACE

Office Space ON US-1 for Rent in Marathon.

6 rooms & 1 bathroom.

1700 SF . $2800/ month.

305-588-1021

MISC. FOR SALE Regulation sized Pool Table $1000.00 OBO Duck Key 3 0 5 - 4 8 1 - 1 3 1 6

VACATION RENTAL WANTED WANTED: 2BR/2BA Condominium at Bonefish Towers for Jan. 2019 and/or Feb. 2019 and/or March 2019. References available. 410-629-9232

YARD SALES A BIG Treasures & Trash Yard Sale- Rain or Shinethis Saturday Dec. 15 from 7:30am-???

Something for all -new and used items.

419 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon YARD / MOVING SALELots of Goodies. Sat, Dec. 15 from 9a-3p and Sun, Dec. 16 from 9a-2p. 780 122nd Street Ocean, M a r a t h o n

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Case No. 18-DR-822-P Division: Family PATRICIA LOUISE DE GRANGE, Petitioner, and WILLIAM EDWIN DE GRANGE, Respondent, NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE TO: WILLIAM EDWIN DE GRANGE Respondent’s last known address: FREDERICK, MD YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and that you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on PATRICIA LOUISE DE GRANGE, whose address is 126 HARBOR DRIVE, KEY LARGO, FL 33037, on or before December 12th, 2018, and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 88820 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, PLANTATION KEY, FL 33070, before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

Copies of all court documents in this case, including orders, are available at the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office. You may review these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit Court’s office notified of your current address. (You may file Designation of Current Mailing and E-Mail Address, Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in this lawsuit will be mailed or e-mailed to the address(es) on record at the clerk’s office.

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

Deceased.

J. KOENIG

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

IN RE: THE ESTATE OF ROBERT W. SCHENK, Deceased.

The administration of the estate of DOROTHY A. LOWE, deceased, File Number 118 CP 144P, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Plantation Key, Florida 33070. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorneys are set forth below.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All persons on whom this notice is served who have objections that challenge the validity of the will, the qualifications of the personal representative, venue, or jurisdiction of this Court are required to file their objections with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the decedent's estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the ancillary estate of ROBERT W. SCHENK, deceased, whose date of death was June 1, 2018, and the last four digits of whose social security number are 2635, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is December 6, 2018.

ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND OBJECTIONS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED.

Personal Representative: JON H. SCHENK 1715 Rank Road Grass Lake, MI 49240

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain automatic disclosure of documents and information. Failure to comply can result in sanctions, including dismissal or striking of pleadings.

The date of the first publication of this Notice is December 6, 2018.

Dated: November 15, 2018

Attorneys for Personal Representative: Timothy P. Stickney, Esq. 285 Woodcrest Road Key Biscayne FL 33149 Telephone: (786) 553-6537 Email: stickneyatty@gmail. com Florida Bar No.: 323632

Attorney for Personal Representative: CARA HIGGINS Attorney for Jon H. Schenk Florida Bar Number: 0734241 HORAN & HIGGINS LLP 608 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 Telephone (305) 2944585 Facsimile (305) 2947822 E-Mail: cara@horanhiggins. com

Kevin Madok, CPA Clerk of the Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Gwen Douglass Deputy Clerk Publish: November 22, November 29, December 6 and December 13, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

Personal Representative: Jerry O. Lowe 2606 Parker Carabelle, Florida Telephone: (850) 597-0616

Publish: December 6 and December 13, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 18 CP 144P IN RE: ESTATE OF DOROTHY A. LOWE,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2018-CP-233-K JUDGE TIMOTHY

Publish: December 6 & December 13, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 18-CP000081-M IN RE: THE ESTATE OF RICHARD PAUL LAVELLE, SR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

The administration of the estate of Richard Paul Lavelle, Sr., deceased, whose date of death was April 25, 2018, file number 18-CP000081-M, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division; the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative's attorney are set forth below.

Any person wishing to participate on the District II Advisory Committee of the Monroe County Tourist Development Council within the district so noted above, may request an application from the Administrative Office by calling (305) 296-1552 and submit an application to the address shown below: Department DAC Monroe County Tourist Development Council 1201 White Street, Suite 102 Key West, FL 33040-3328 Fax #: (305) 296-0788

legal notices. Requirements for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar by Onvia at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. The Public Record is available at the Monroe County Purchasing Office located in the Gato Building, 1100 Simonton Street, Room 2-213, Key West, Florida.

for submission and the selection criteria may be requested from DemandStar by Onvia at www.demandstar.com OR www.monroecountybids. com. The Public Record is available at the Monroe County Purchasing Office located in the Gato Building, 1100 Simonton Street, Room 2-213, Key West, Florida.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE TIME OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR 30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent's estate must file their claims with this court WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. ALL CLAIMS NOT FILED WITHIN THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SECTION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT'S DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is December 6, 2018.

Personal Representative: Richard P. Lavelle, Jr. 12 Wyoming Street Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 Attorney for Personal Representative: Nicholas W. Mulick, Esq. Florida Bar No. 0337757 Nicholas W. Mulick, P.A. 91645 Overseas Highway Tavernier, Florida 33070 Telephone: (305) 852-9292 reception@mulicklaw.com Publish: December 6 & December 13, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers DISTRICT II ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DAC II) (From the City Limits of Key West to the West End of the Seven Mile Bridge) of the MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL Has an opening for a TOURIST RELATED BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE - Shall be persons involved in business which is interdependent upon the tourist industry who have demonstrated an interest in tourist development but who shall not be employed in any position within the lodging industry (motels, hotels, recreational vehicle parks and other tourist accommodations and whose business is in the tax collection district for which they are applying.

Deadline for receipt of application at the above address is FRIDAY January 11, 2019 at 5:00 p.m. A resume may be attached to the application.

Publish: December 13, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 9, 2019, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: MTH ILLUMINATED AIRFIELD SIGNS MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www.floridapublicnotices. com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published

All responses must be sealed and must be submitted to the Monroe County Purchasing Office.

Publish: December 13, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

Respondents must be preapproved by FDOT for Work Group 3.1 Minor Highway Design.

All responses must be sealed and must be submitted to the Monroe County Purchasing Office.

Publish: December 13, 2018

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 16, 2019, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PERMITTING FLORIDA KEYS OVERSEAS HERITAGE TRAIL (FKOHT) CONNECTION AT CUDJOE GARDENS PROJECT, MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. 50.0211(3)(a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices. Requirements

THEME: HAPPY HOLIDAYS ACROSS 1. Snap up 5. Ship pronoun 8. Table scrap 11. Not happening 12. Call to matey 13. Boredom 15. Decant 16. Pilaf grain 17. Charcuterie stores 18. *”A ____ for the rest of us!”from “Seinfeld” 20. Gwyneth, to friends 21. Thing to bear?

22. Comedian Tina 23. *Warmest or holiday follower 26. Feeling of disinterest 30. Sculptor Hans/Jean ___ 31. Chief 34. Assistant 35. Used in cricket or 301 37. *Feast of the Seven Fishes seafood 38. Tanks and such 39. Purse for a formal affair 40. All together 42. Make a mistake 43. Green bean or peanut 45. Infamous ____ Knoll 47. Charge carrier 48. *____ Navidad!

50. Hindu princess 52. *This theme wouldn’t exist without them 55. Swines, in Old English 56. Dashing style 57. Between a trot and a gallop 59. Corpulent 60. Ding-a-____ 61. Knight’s breastplate 62. “I Thee ____” 63. Pea container 64. Not a word?

DOWN 1. Econ. measure 2. *Where Santa’s sleigh lands 3. Malaria symptom 4. Russian soup 5. Prison weapon, pl.

6. Bette Midler’s “____ Pocus” 7. *”Tiny tots with their ____ all aglow” 8. Billy Joel’s “____ the Good Die Young” 9. The Colosseum, e.g.

10. *____ the season!

12. Not aria nor recitative 13. Landscaper’s tool 14. *Welcomed with a count down 19. Weight of refuse and chaff, pl.

22. Driving hazard 23. Does like a crane 24. About to explode 25. Celiac disease, colloquially 26. ____ weevil 27. March of ____ 28. Emanations from incense and frankincense 29. *Christmas predecessor 32. Be undecided 33. Cotillion ball’s main attraction 36. *Good follower 38. Like smell of burning rubber, e.g.

40. Long time 41. Staring amorously 44. Coolness and composure 46. Popular flowering shrub 48. Shakespeare’s “First ____” 49. African antelope 50. RBG’s garb 51. Matured like cheese 52. SOS 53. Quotable Berra 54. What DJs do 55. Reporter’s question 58. Is in Paris

38

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

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Considering a move or visit to the Florida Keys?

The best way to familiarize yourself with your new hometown is by surfing our new site www.keysweekly.com.

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BUSINESS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Sea Tow Key Largo owners Capt. Steve and Cheryl Powers pose with their Franchise of the Year award. CONTRIBUTED

BOATING’S N BEST

Key Largo franchise named tops in nation

Kristin Frohnhoefer, left, Sea Tow president; Cheryl Powers and Capt. Steve Powers, Sea Tow Key Largo owners; and Joseph Frohnhoefer, CEO of Sea Tow.

ot much more than a year ago, Steve and Cheryl Powers were without a place to call home in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma; but that didn’t stop them from helping others.

Although both their personal and professional lives were sent into a state of disarray, the Powerses’ commitment to serving their members and the Florida Keys community never wavered. That service-focused mindset is what separates the Powerses from the rest of the pack and it is exactly what won them Sea Tow’s coveted “Franchise of the Year” award” at the company’s annual meeting in Orlando.

“Most people thrust into the situation Steve and Cheryl were in a year ago would have had a hard time coming out the other side,” said Kristen Frohnhoefer, Sea Tow’s president and presenter of the award. “Not only were they able to put the pieces back together for their family, but they played a vital role in doing the same for the entire Keys community. That sort of drive and determination is practically unheard of.”

A decade ago, the Powerses decided they were sick of the corporate world. Instead of giving up, the couple grabbed each other by the hand, held on tight and took a leap of faith by buying their local Sea Tow franchise.

Ten years and several devastating hurricanes later, that grip remains as strong as ever.

Boasting a membership of thousands of boaters, Sea Tow Key Largo may not be the biggest franchise in the company’s wide-ranging international network, but that doesn’t stop the Powerses from performing at a level at or above some of the best known boating hotspots in the world.

“We pride ourselves in treating each and every one of our members like an extension of our family,” Cheryl said. “While we have a lot of day-trippers and other boaters who visit from elsewhere, Key Largo has a strong boating community and we want to do everything we can to help it reach its full potential.”

“We love this community and wouldn’t trade our jobs as Sea Tow captains for the world,” Steve said. “To be able to spend my days out on the water with my wife and, occasionally, our three daughters, is the best job I could ever ask for. After all, even a bad day out on the water is better than a good one in an office.

“We couldn’t be happier to win this award,” Steve said. “But we couldn’t do it without the help of our staff and the rest of the boating community. The Keys are a special place and we look forward to continuing to build on that reputation as the years go by.”

—Contributed

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 13, 2018

Tavernier Office:

305.852.0516 91390 Overseas Highway (Tavernier Towne Plaza) Tavernier, FL 33070

Merry Christmas from your Keys CenterState Bankers!

Key Largo Office:

305.451.5733 100150 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037

CenterStateBank.com