Upper Keys Weekly

Santa has his work cut out. P. 20-24

Santa’s in Town Kringle makes various stops in the Upper Keys | P. 16, 17 + 31

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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g n i h s i w . . . s r u o y o t y l i m a f r u o m l u f r Fr o e d n o w a s r u o y d n a you ! n o s a e S y a d i l Ho ©2018 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Real Estate Brokerage Services are offered through the network member franchisees of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Most franchisees are independently owned and operated. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Information not verified or guaranteed. If your property is currently listed with a broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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ISLAMORADA

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

ON THE COVER

The number of penguins in a secret “Super Colony” recently discovered in the Antarctic, according to livescience.com. And, evidence suggests, the colony has existed for 3,000 years. For years, scientists had been visually inspecting satellite photos to identify the Adelie penguins, but when they began using an algorithm developed by a NASA employee, the colony in the aptly named and mostly inaccessible Danger Islands was revealed. The first hint, though, wasn’t the actual animals but their very pink poop. It’s science, baby.

Santa greets Harper Kershner, 3, upon his arrival from Coast Guard Station Islamorada via a Coast Guard Cutter to Bass Pro Shop’s World Wide Sportsman.

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly

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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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ALLOCATION APPROVAL Council paves way to add affordable housing JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

W

ith dire affordable housing needs, the Islamorada village council on Dec. 13 approved accepting the state of Florida’s 300 new residential units.

The council approved a comprehensive plan ordinance that adds the state’s workforce-affordable housing initiative. It paves the way for the units identified as “early evacuation” affordable residential allocations.

In Islamorada, Hurricane Irma destroyed two significant affordable housing communities in San Pedro and Sea Breeze. A total of 144 residences were lost there, according to officials.

The village’s initial damage assessment found 193 homes lost due to the hurricane. Homeowners impacted by Irma who can’t rebuild their homes or get them up to code are selling them to investors who are building vacation homes, officials say.

Specifics outlined in the ordinance detail structures to be multi-family rental units that meet building code.

Deed restrictions will be required to ensure that the property remains workforce-affordable housing in perpetuity.

Renters per their agreements will be required to evacuate in the event of a hurricane. Failure to do so could result in eviction. Exceptions are made, however, for first responders and health care professionals. Planning Director Ty Harris said there was discussion during a recent Local Planning Agency meeting in relation to the evacuation requirement.

“Their thought was have a plan in place and make sure there’s transportation to leave in that 48-hour window,” he said. “These units aren’t the same as other units. You have to evacuate within 48 hours.”

When it comes to evacuating, Councilwoman Cheryl Meads said community members take care of each other and “don’t leave people behind.”

Village Attorney Roget Bryan said staff has heard comments from LPA about evacuating and will look into how to approach that.

In all, 36 affordable housing allocations are available until 2023 for the village. There are twelve affordable housing allocations for 2019, which includes six allocations established for 2019 through BPAS plus six rollover allocations for 2018.

To date, the village was approached with five new affordable housing projects, which will need 95 affordable housing allocations. If the village uses the remaining allocation for all the remaining years until 2023, the village will still be 59 affordable allocations short in meeting the immediate demand.

“We need more allocations from what we lost since Irma,” Harris said.

“Either you take the 300 or you don’t take any. This is the time to do it. From a planning standpoint, we may not have a shot before 2023 to get more units.”

Pete Bacheler, Local Planning Agency chairman, and Mark Gregg, Achievable Housing Citizens’ Advisory Committee member, shared the same sentiments during the meeting.

Bacheler said the area has lost a lot of affordable units, and they’re not coming back.

“We (the committee) agreed to adopt the 300 units and voted for that 4-1 with five members there that night,” he said. “We think it’s going to help.”

Gregg noted that allowing rentals lets local residents participate as landlords. While he acknowledged there’s concern about evacuations and time frames, he said there’s a bus that goes to Dade County daily.

“I don’t know why they can’t get out of the Keys on that,” he said.

In light of a challenge in Marathon regarding affordable housing, Smith and Harris also addressed how the village’s ordinance would withstand an administrative challenge. Harris said they waited to see what the lawsuit in Marathon looked like before proceeding.

“Roget and I are confident that our ordinance would withstand an administrative challenge,” he said.

SAVE THE DATE Through Dec. 22 • Monroe County library branches are forgiving book fines (not lost or damaged items) for patrons who donate food.

Thursday, Dec. 20 • Christmas bird count at 7 a.m. at Crocodile Lake NWR HQ Office, 10750 County Road 905, Key Largo.

• Join Ms. Chris for story time for wee ones at 10:30 a.m. at Key Largo Library.

• Flagpole dedication and annual Chamber holiday party from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Key Largo Chamber.

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

Sunday, Dec. 23 • Nice & Naughty Christmas Party at noon at Islamorada Beer Company.

Dec. 24-Jan.4 • Winter Break Camp from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at YMCA, Key Largo.

Monday, Dec. 24 • Christmas Eve services at 6 p.m. at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, Islamorada.

Tuesday, Dec. 25 • Prayers at noon at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, Islamorada.

Dec. 28-29 • Self-guided Key West Home Tours to benefit Old Island Restoration Foundation.

Saturday, Dec. 29 • Movie Under the Stars & FamilyFriendly New Year’s Celebration at 6 p.m. at Founders Park Amphitheater.

Monday, Dec. 31 • New Year’s Eve Bash from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. at Hog Heaven, Islamorada.

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

To see Keyswide events, sign up for The Weekly’s Friday e-mail blast at keysweekly.com.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

ISLAMORADA

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

NO WAKE ZONE Council passes idle speed at Whale Harbor Wheel Ditch

A

deadly boating accident this past spring off Whale Harbor Channel in Upper Matecumbe Key has prompted action from village council.

On Dec. 13, council members unanimously approved an ordinance to create an idle speed/no wake zone for the entire length of Wheel Ditch on Whale Harbor Channel — where a boat crash took the life of a woman and injured four others in April.

In October, the village discussed the accident and noted the ongoing safety concerns associated with excessive speed through the narrow, shallow channel through the mangroves. They directed the Village Near Shore Water Advisory Committee to review and discuss options to improve boating safety.

Recommendations from the advisory committee came in the form of an ordinance creating a no-motor zone for Whale Harbor Wheel Ditch. In discussions with Florida Wildlife Conservation, the village was told to look at establishing an ordinance regulating speed for the area.

With the ordinance approved, the village will apply to obtain permits and approvals to install buoys and signage. Those who speed through the channel will be fined $50 for their first violation.

“We have looked at the possibility of increasing the penalty but right now that’s what is provided,” said Village Attorney Roget Bryan.

Councilman Mike Forster said those who travel through the ditch know they can’t idle through there. Forster said while a skiff can get through, anything bigger will see boats dredging the channel. Overall, he acknowledged that the ordinance is all about safety and saving lives.

“Hopefully boat rental companies will tell them they can’t go through there at all,“ he said.

Mayor Deb Gillis directed the village to contact boat rental companies to let them know about the change.

OTHER MATTERS • Council approved an agreement with the engineering firm CPH Inc. for professional services associated with phase one of the Founders Park Breakwater repairs project. Constructed in 1961, the breakwater is integral in safeguarding the marina. Village Manager Seth Lawless said it’s suffered extensive damage from repeated wave crashes, and needs to be rehabbed. Services approved are for a preliminary investigation and design that’s needed to move toward construction.

• Council approved a resolution requesting Florida Department of Transportation’s approval of the design of the pedestrian bridge over U.S. 1 at Founders Park. The idea dates back to 2016 when a formal request to FDOT was sent with plans to make pedestrian traffic to the park safer. Last year, the village adopted a resolution to proceed with the proposed FDOT design for a steel truss bridge with elevators and stairs.

The village chose a design for the bridge that includes the village seal stamped into both sides of the two elevator towers.

• Council approved a 99-year lease with Habitat for Humanity for property located at 84771 Overseas Highway for use as affordable housing. Last year, council approved 16 allocations for units on Windley Key. The prior property owner, Joe Janas, agreed to sell the property to Habitat for Humanity of the Upper Keys with assistance from Monroe County Land Authority. Earlier in the year, the village accepted the assignment of the purchase contract for the property to the village for the development. The village took title to property and has entered into a lease with Habitat for Humanity.

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GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

M

CHOOSING CHILDREN Group helps kids in need JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

ore than 200 children in Monroe County will smile just a little more this Christmas thanks to the dedicated work by volunteers and members of Voices for Florida Keys Children.

Earlier this month, the nonprofit organization held its annual breakfast where gifts were donated and funds were collected to give Christmas to 210 children who are in the Guardian Ad Litem program.

Year-round, Voices supports those who’ve faced neglect, abuse or abandonment and are involved in court proceedings. The Guardian Ad Litem program advocates for the best interests of children in court.

Sue Whitley is co-vice president of membership and executive board member with Voices for Florida Keys Children. She said the organization formed 28 years ago by a group of women in Duck Key who wanted to do something charitable for the community. Voices for Florida Keys Children is made up of 10 executive board members, 10 board members and seven advisory members.

“It’s grown so much since we started,” Whitley said. “It’s just been phenomenal.”

Whitley says the group of volunteers supplies the requests — anything from doctor and dentist visits to clothing, diapers, emergency items and scholarships. The group also provides camps throughout the year as well as dance lessons, karate and tutoring, to

name a few things.

During the holidays, Whitley said, the group gets children’s wish lists and members do their best to fill them.

Earlier this month, the Voices Holiday Coffee was held for children in the Guardian Ad Litem program. Those who attended brought gifts found on the kids’ wish lists. For the remaining items on the list, the group went shopping in Miami.

“We try our best to supply the children and teens with the things they actually want,” she said. “We then went to the sheriff’s conference room where volunteers wrapped everything and labeled it all.”

One of Voices’ major fundraisers is the annual Luncheon and Fashion Show, which will be held on March 16, 2019 at Hawks Cay Resort. Whitley said it’s always a much anticipated event. Additionally, Voices For Florida Keys Children has built two homes in Key Largo for foster parents.

More information about Voices for Florida Keys Children can be found on their Facebook page or voicesflkeyschildren.org.

Voices for Florida Keys Children has its annual breakfast recently where Christmas toys and gifts were gathered and funds were raised to purchase Christmas for the 210 kids in the Guardian Ad Litem program in Monroe County. CONTRIBUTED

GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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KIDS SUPPORTING KIDS

The Children of St. James Children’s Center donate toys, wrapped and mailed to Holy Nativity Episcopal Church & School in Panama City. The school was destroyed in Hurricane Michael and is using the space in the church for their classrooms. The children were so grateful for the support from all over the state when Irma affected them that they wanted to give back. CONTRIBUTED

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GIVING

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

LENDING A HAND

CSHS athletes help Hurricane Michael victims different Coral Shores winter athletic teams — totaling 142 members — participated in 18 days of collections for the Upper Keys Foundation and CSHS athletic departments’ Hurricane Michael relief mission.

Members from three different teams then helped fill a delivery truck provided by Jeff Gautier and his Plantation Keys Tree and Nursery company.

“This started out as something our girls volleyball team was going to try to do,” said CSHS head volleyball coach Kathy Ets-Hokin. “The Upper Keys Foundation thought it was a great mission and worked with Athletic Director Rich Russell to involve all of the in-season athletic pro-

grams.”

The effort also resulted in a donation of nearly $5,000 to the Bay United Volleyball program of Panama City. Bay United works with about 100 athletes. Karisa Wesley, who works as a coach and counselor for Bay United, estimated that between 80 and 85 of her players are still displaced from their homes.

“I talked to Coach Wesley over the weekend,” Ets-Hokin said. “They were overwhelmed by our athletes’ efforts and our community’s heart.”

“We want to teach each of our athletes to be in tune to folks with genuine needs,” said Russell, “and we want to teach them to step up and make a difference where possible.

“Our kids do many things in their athletic endeavors that bring pride to our school and community. That said, I think this is our greatest source of pride. It’s very gratifying to hear them talk about the enjoyment they get from helping. I’d like to think we are training the next Girls Scout leaders, the next Little League coaches, the next Rotarians etc.”

Russell noted the athletes’ empathy for those affected by Michael.

“A year ago our kids were helping their own families and our own community. We also had a chance to send some of our athletes – and write a check – to our friends in Marathon. Our kids have seen the effects of hurricanes first-hand and they understand the associated needs.”

Wesley said she was overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support.

“Kathy and Rich have been in constant dialogue with us and asked about specific needs — all of which were addressed,” Wesley said. “One of the neatest things that came from this was our girls — 85 percent of them displaced from their homes — decided to take a portion of the money donated, and buy Christmas presents for younger kids in the area who are even worse off than them. We gave each of them a set amount of money and we all spent an afternoon shopping at Target. I’ve never seen our girls happier.”

—Contributed

Members of the girls’ weightlifting, JV boys basketball and wrestling teams help load a supply truck. Jeff Gautier, owner of Plantation Key Tree and Nursery, provided a truck and driver to take collections to Panama City and the UKF-CSHS adopted group, Bay United Volleyball program. CONTRIBUTED

BRIEFLY Deadline is approaching to register with Rebuild Florida The deadline is Dec. 23 for Keys homeowners with Hurricane Irma damage to register with Rebuild Florida. The mobile registration bus will be at CVS Tavernier Town Center Dec. 20-22. Homeowners also can register online or by phone. Rebuild Florida is a program of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), created to help Florida recover from Hurricane Irma.

The first phase of Rebuild Florida is the Housing Repair Program, which will help families rebuild their homes that were damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Irma.

Burton Memorial sets Christmas services On Sunday, Dec. 23, Burton Memorial United Methodist Church will present “One Starry Night,” its first live nativity scene and petting zoo, from 6 to 9 p.m. Families will enter through the “Bethlehem” city gate, record their names for the census, gaze at constellations in the night sky, seek lodging at an inn, enjoy treats from the marketplace, and follow the shepherds to find baby Jesus. More information is at 305-852-2581 or burtonmemorial@ bellsouth.net.

On Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, Burton Memorial will have two services. At 7 p.m. there will be a candlelight service with traditional Christmas carols, geared toward families, with free childcare for children up to 2 years old.

The 11 p.m. service also is a candlelight service, with the addition of Holy Communion.

On Christmas Day, a Christmas luncheon will go from noon to 2 p.m.

The luncheon is open to all in the community, with free food (turkey/ham with all the trimmings) and fellowship.

Last call for artists for Pigeon Key fest The Pigeon Key Art Festival will be celebrating its silver anniversary Feb. 2-3, 2019. The 25-year-old art emporium will again be at the Marathon Community Park, at MM 49. The artwork available will include pottery, paintings, glass, sculpture, photography, jewelry and more. Fine artists and fine craftsmen and -women are invited to submit an application for consideration into the show. Local food vendors are also encouraged to apply. More information is at www.PigeonKeyArtFestival. com or from Sean at 573-519-2200.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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Come Celebrate the Holidays at the Mar Bar! Christmas Eve

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The Party starts at 2PM Closed Christmas Day

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New Years’s Eve The Celebration Begins at 4PM and goes till it’s over!

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WEEKLY INTERVIEW

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

11

GABBIN’ WITH GRISWOLD IN THE KEYS

By Jason Koler & Britt Myers

T

he Florida Keys, and more specifically, the Lower Keys have long served as an escape for former professional athletes, artists, public figures, screwballs and those who have danced with a low to moderate celebrity. Long before social media, Amazon Prime and the 2008 financial crisis, an executive with an industrial chemical company made national headlines when a botched kidnapping on Christmas Eve forced Main Street executives to re-examine their holiday bonus practices. Since retiring to Big Pine with his wife Ellen, Clark Griswold has advocated for safer sewers, solar energy and the restoration of old-fashioned Christmas traditions.

You were recently honored by Keys Energy Services and the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners for “Light Up the Lower Keys.” The initiative encourages residents to install energy-efficient LED lighting. How did you come up with the plan and what was your biggest challenge?

Lights on a strand are a beautiful and elegant way to showcase your holiday spirit. Anyone who uses one of those $25 projectors to light up their homes is a cheap, lying, no-good, rotten, four-flushing, low-life, snake-licking, dirt-eating, inbred, overstuffed, ignorant, blood-sucking, dog-kissing, brainless, d*&^less, hopeless, heartless, fat-ass, bug-eyed, stiff-legged, spotty-lipped, wormheaded sack of monkey poop.

My biggest challenge was affixing the lights to the metal roof. Staples won’t work.

Your career in the food additive industry is legendary. Experts say the “Crunch Enhancer,” a non-nutritive cereal varnish, is one of those once-in-a-lifetime products with limitless applications. What practical uses have you found for it in the Keys?

It’s semi-permeable and not osmotic; like FlexSeal – only edible. I have found restaurants use it to keep fried mahi crunchy. It can also help keep the water out of your home if you are waiting on a building permit or insurance money.

Where did you evacuate to during Hurricane Irma?

Actually, we loaded up the RV and spent some time with my cousin Eddie in Canada. He ran into some legal problems recently but is working on securing his Canadian citizenship through his Canadian cousin, Joe Mitchell.

What is your favorite Christmas movie?

“Home Alone.” I love John Hughes’ flicks. I am hoping local filmmaker Quincy Perkins can find the time to remake it. That would be awesome. I also like “Seabiscuit” for the action.

If you could have drinks with anyone alive or dead, who would it be and why?

My old boss, Frank Shirley. After the Christmas bonus fiasco we became quite close. He tried to swim from Key West to Cuba but was eaten by sharks.

Swallowed whole or chewed?

Chewed.

What is your nerdiest passion?

I like skinny-dipping in random hotel pools.

What is your most treasured possession?

Family photo albums.

If invisible for a day in the Keys, what would you do?

Find out what kind of cheese they use in the fondue at the Square Grouper.

On what occasion do you lie?

I used to lie to Ellen about my feelings, but now I only lie to the Monroe County Property Appraiser and the Monroe County Building Department.

Airbnb is my best source of income.

Favorite guilty pleasure?

Eggnog and poolside bikini fantasies.

What job would you be terrible at?

Politics. But I would be one hell of a power forward for the Lakers.

Finish these sentences …

Fried pussycat is best served with … Keys Mango Chutney (also goes well with Key deer).

Is your non-nutritive cereal varnish gluten-free?

Kiss my ass.

The worst place I’ve ever awakened with my face sewn to the carpet is … County Commissioner Sylvia Murphy’s house.

If I had to choose between shitt’n rocks or shitt’n bricks I would choose … neither. Rocks and bricks are inappropriate. Shitt’n conchs is more like it.

My friends and family would describe me as …

Dr. Rosenpenis. Or Dr. Rosen. Or Dr. Rose’NRose.

Wait, where is the records room?

My autobiography would be titled … “I’m Clark Griswold, and You’re Not.”

When I go, I will go … in a station wagon.

If they were to make a movie based on my life I would be played by … Zac Efron.

12

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

Volunteers and staff members of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo gather for a group photo after receiving their certification for helmet fitting. The training was facilitated by park services specialist Elena Muratori, and co-taught by Alison Kerr of the Florida Department of Health in Monroe County. The training, which took place on Nov. 28 in the visitor center at John Pennekamp State Park, allows certified helmet fitters to receive free helmets from the Florida Pedestrian Bicycle Resource Center, funded by the FDOT for distribution to the community at no cost.

More information is available at 305-676-3820.

— Contributed

THE RIGHT FIT Volunteers, staff get helmet certification

Newly certified in fitting helmets are, front from left, Serena Meyer, Lindsey Crews, Laurie Brooks, Mary Lemak and Laura Hartner; middle row, from left, Rebecca Claytor, Brenda Jarvis, Wendy Hammer and James Royster and back row, from left, Tamar Brown, Ronnie Dykes and Elena Muratori. ELENA MURATORI/Contributed

Volunteers come out to Island Christian School’s gymnasium on Dec. 16 to help sort the mountain of toys gathered through the Florida Keys Toys for Tots drive. Nonprofit groups throughout the Keys stopped in throughout the day to get the toys on their lists for children. JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

TOY STORY Volunteers prepare presents for Keys children

COMMUNITY NEWS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

RAMPING UP M

County to begin project at Harry Harris Park

onroe County will begin a grantfunded project on Jan. 7 to upgrade both boat ramps at Harry Harris Park in Tavernier.

The two boat ramps are separated by a dock. Construction will be limited to one ramp at a time, so one ramp and the dock will remain open to ensure continued access for boaters and limit the impact of the work.

The concrete ramps will be replaced above the mean high waterline to improve traction when launching boats into the water. Over time, the traction on the ramps has worn off.

The construction portion of the project is scheduled to take 90 days. The project is funded with a grant from the Florida Boating Improvement Program and a 25 percent grant match using infrastructure sales tax funds.

— Contributed

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KEYS EATS

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

Curry chicken comes with sautéed vegetables and steamed white rice or rice and peas. JIM McCARTHY/ Keys Weekly

$10 Entrance Fee

100% of all proceeds benefit

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LORELEI WILL BE OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE & CHRISTMAS DAY FROM 7AM TO 8PM Live entertainment both day and night

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L

ongtime chef Arthur Paterson always dreamed about running a restaurant. Today, Paterson can be found preparing some of the finest Floribbean cuisine at Arthur’s Island Kitchen, located inside the VFW Post in Key Largo.

“To be able to create your own thing, the post gave me an opportunity to do that,” he said.

A chef for 40 years, Paterson has extensive experience, having run the Green Turtle and Whale Harbor for a number of years. He’s also spent time as a chef for Carnival and two other cruise lines.

“Food has been in my blood,” he said.

Patrons who stop for a bite at Arthur’s Island Kitchen will find a mix of Florida Keys and Caribbean food.

Paterson said that in putting together the menu, he wanted to to offer people meals they may not find elsewhere. For instance, try the stew oxtail, with meat that melts in the mouth. It’s simmered in its own juices and served with sautéed mixed vegetables and white rice or rice and peas.

Also try the curry chicken or curry goat with sautéed vegetables and rice.

Some of the other menu items include ribeye steak, New York strip steak, chicken creole, fresh catch, burgers, salads and appetizers.

“Being in the Keys for so long —

I’ve lived here for 30-plus years — and being in the restaurant business, you think you know what people want or what they like,” he said. “We have a little bit of everything.”

As for the curry, Arthur says some people are leery about it because they think it’s hot. Arthur said curry dishes offered at the Post are very palatable.

Other delicious menu items include the seafood chowder, which Arthur crafted himself, and Guyanese stew fish that’s stewed with onions and tomatoes.

“What we do is we get fish and stew it in a tomato base, mildly spicy sauce and we let it bake in the oven.

Then you peel meat off the bone and it’s really good,” he said. “That came directly from a friend of my mine. She makes this stuff, and when I had it, I was like ‘this is going on the menu.’”

For those who are wondering, Arthur said the post is a place not only for veterans to come and enjoy, but families and children as well. What was once a bar is now a restaurantbar with a fresher look and a cleaner atmosphere. Arthur gave Jason Kendall credit for seeing a vision at the Post in Key Largo.

“It’s going to evolve,” Arthur said.

“But it’s still ‘the post.’”

Arthur’s Island Kitchen, located at 102255 Overseas Highway, is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. More information can be found at Arthur’s Island Kitchen’s Facebook page.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

FRESH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON SEND THE GIFT OF

FROM FLORIDA SEAFOOD

END OF YEAR SALE 60% OFF GUY HARVEY

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

HALF PRICE SALE DRESSES & SHORTS

GUY HARVEY PERFORMANCE HI-TECH SPF 50 FAST DRY REG $69.95 NOW $29.99! $44.95 LEATHER BOATING SANDALS NOW $15.99

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OPEN 9-5 | 7 DAYS A WEEK

MM 86.7 | INSIDE THE RAIN BARREL | 305-853-0001 SALE GOOD TILL DEC 31ST !!

TREASURE VILLAGE MONTESSORI would like to thank PASTA for his support of our Art Program!

Events like ART UNDER THE STARS would not be successful without him. THANK YOU FOR ENRICHING OUR STUDENTS IN THE ARTS.

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SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

AHOY, SANTA

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World Wide Sportsman brings holiday fun

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anta arrived in a different mode of transportation on Dec. 15 in Islamorada.

Children waited in anticipation as Santa came into Bass Pro Shop’s World Wide Sportsman via the U.S. Coast Guard. The little ones greeted Santa as he stepped onto the dock. Following his arrival, kids got a chance to relay their Christmas wishes, get pictures and venture around the store.

— Weekly staff report

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DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 1. Santa gets some help removing a life jacket after a boat ride from Coast Guard Station Islamorada via a Coast Guard cutter to Bass Pro Shop’s World Wide Sportsman in Islamorada. Kids and adults came out to meet Santa and have their picture taken with him aboard Hemingway’s boat Pilar.

2. Autumn and Summer Bodziak, 8, take a photo with Santa aboard Hemingway’s boat Pilar at Bass Pro Shop’s World Wide Sportsman in Islamorada.

3. Kids and adults meet Santa and have their picture taken with him.

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4. Daniel, of Miami, meets with Santa.

5. Logan Wojcik, 4, at left, and his younger brother Jax, 2, of Tavernier, meet with Santa.

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

DE-LIGHT-FUL Miller’s Village goes all out for holiday Miller’s Village in Key Largo held its annual holiday party on Dec. 15.

Community members had the opportunity to take in the hundreds of lights on display as well as get a picture with Santa, some miniature golf and more. Owner Dale Miller says the light display goes up every year for the whole month of December. Miller says it takes a month to get all the decorations up. “We start in Halloween and we stop at Thanksgiving,” he said. “I have two helpers who help me.” Miller says this is the fourth year for the display, and it gets bigger each time.

JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

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 NO FURTHER DISCOUNTS APPLY

Call for details (305) 852-8245 MM97.5 • Open 9AM

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18

STUDENT OF THE WEEK

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

Running out of time?

The Upper Keys Weekly is proud to partner with Coral Shores High School’s 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 Coral Shores for allowing us to share in a weekly dose of “Hurricane” pride and for giving us a glimpse into their world.

What is something most people don’t know about you? I am named after MaKena Beach in Maui, Hawaii, where my parents got married.

It’s not too late to get everything on your list with great rates and fast local service on affordable Keys Auto, Boat, Holiday and Home Loans.

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

*Subject to credit approval. Restrictions may apply. Our local military and everyone who lives or works in the Florida Keys and their families are welcome to join.

GIVE THE GIFT THAT KEEPS GIVING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! Every dolphin swim and donation supports the Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder stranding team, the only stranding response for sick and injured whales and dolphins in the Florida Keys.

MAKENA WOOLET-STOCKTON FRESHMAN

Who is your all-time favorite teacher and why? Ms. Dobson is currently my favorite teacher because she is really energetic and makes learning fun, but also Mrs. Frier because I had her as a science teacher in middle school. She is always happy about teaching.

What does a “good education” mean to you? A large focus on academics and other opportunities including sports and fine arts.

What is the dumbest rule at your school? The best? The dumbest rule at CSHS is a physical education requirement. I feel that there should be a one- or two-year requirement for either sports or arts. The best rule is the five minutes between classes.

What is something you know now that you didn’t know before entering high school? The amount of school-wide activities. I expected pep rallies but not State of the Hurricanes or the prominence of spirit week.

What organizations and activities are you involved with at CSHS and why are they important to you?

I’m involved in S.E.A. Club and Key Club.

They both provide opportunities to help people in different situations.

What are your plans after high school? I am not exactly sure what career or college I want to be a part of but I definitely want to go to a four-year college and get a bachelor’s degree.

What is one favorite way to spend your spare time? In my spare time, especially on vacations, I like to surf and go skiing.

s y a d i l o H y s Happ olphin’s Plu

nds at D ie r f r u o y m o fr esponder!

R l a m m a Marine M

31 Corrine Place, Key Largo, Fl 33037 • 305-453-4321 • www.dpmmr.org Not For Profit 501 (c)(3) Organization

Will you make the Keys your permanent home? Why or why not?

I would like to in order to be close to my family; however, I do not think I will be able to because of a lack of career opportunities that interest me.

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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Board and awards Chamber recognizes members, businesses

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T

he Key Largo Chamber of Commerce recently gathered at Key Largo Marriott to install its new board of directors and hand out its annual awards. Various members and businesses were recognized for their dedicated work to the community.

—Weekly staff report

NOLA ACKER/Keys Weekly 1. The Chamber Superhero award is presented to Robert “Bob” Stuart, who donated money to purchase flagpoles.

2. Roberto Alonso presents the 2018 Volunteer of the Year award to Lisa Feliciano for her efforts and contributions to the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce.

3. The 2018 Chairman’s Bell award is presented to Marlen Weeks for her outstanding contribution to the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. Also pictured are Roberto Alonso and Elizabeth Moscynski, chamber president.

4. The Angelfish Beautification award goes to Bungalows of Key Largo as the chamber member that does the most to improve its property. The Bungalows’ improvements included 4,800 palm trees, 1,000 buttonwood trees, 200 birds of paradise, 460 bougainvillea, 10,000 ferns and grasses and 1,000 bamboo plants.

5. State Attorney for Monroe County Dennis Ward installs the Key Largo Chamber board.

6.The Business of the Year is presented to Advanced Urgent Care of The Upper Keys in recognition for its outstanding services and contributions to the well being of the community.

20

LETTERS TO SANTA

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

CHRISTMAS WISHES Plantation Key students write to Santa

The elves continue to work hard at the North Pole as Santa checks his list twice. With Christmas approaching, students from Plantation Key School took some time out of their day to write their wishes to Santa.

Dear Santa, I have been good this year and I really want to have a good Christmas with family. So what I really want for Christmas is a camera to take pictures with. Also a MacBook that I really want. Another thing I would like is an Apple Watch. For Christmas I wanted to be a Youtuber.

That’s what I really want to Christmas. Last but not least a phone so I can do a lot of stuff. Happy Holiday Santa and Mrs. Claus Love, Emma Turk Dear Santa, I have been very good this year.

For Christmas this year I would like a Polaroid camera. I would also like gift cards. Any type of gift card will work. I know I deserve these gifts because I have been amazing this year. This year in gymnastics I have accomplished my front and back walkover. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!

Sincerely, Abbie Andersen Dear Santa, I have been very good this year.

This Christmas, I would like four to five things. Firstly, I’ll want some art supplies. Secondly, some nail polish.

Thirdly, I would like a cookie decorating kit. Fourth, a unicorn stuffed animal. Last, but not least, I would like a sketchpad with a unicorn on it! All right here’s the end, and I want unicorn pajamas!

Happy Holidays, Gabby Dear Santa, I need to let you on a little secret of mine. All what I want for Christmas is a new good working phone, a Nintendo and family love. I think that I have been good this year because I made the honor roll for all straight grades. I also clean my guinea pig’s cage. Besides I am ten so like almost everybody has a phone they are ten. #bestyearever Love, Natalie Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth. Ha I’m kidding. I want some new clothes and a new phone for Christmas. I thin I’ve been a

good girl. I got my ears double pierced for an early gift. And I take out my garbage, clean dishes and my dog every day. I mean come on give me some credit here. I want to thank my parents for paying for my dance and if my friends are reading I love you guys too!

Happy Holidays, Alexis Dear Santa, If you think that I have been a good little girl all year, I have a list of things for Christmas. First I would like a brand-new robe. Second of all, I would like more Pikmi Pops too. Wait! There’s more: I would also like LOL surprise, new headphones and Watchimals collectibles. Thanks!

Yours truly, Alyssa Dear Santa, I have been good these holidays and these are the things I really want. Now these are the things: A computer and a bike. The bike is my most favorite. I can’t wait for Christmas. I really don’t care about the presents. I care about me and my family having fun. The things I like the most are the presents, decorations and spend time with my family. They are the reason why Christmas is the best.

Love, Melissa M. Dear Santa, Finally! The time has come and it’s my turn to talk. In my opinion, I have been pretty good this year. So here are three things I would like to put on my list. First, I would like to go to a dance camp I was accepted to in LA called the Mind Lab. Second, I would like to sign for American Ninja Warrior Junior.

And last, I would like to get really crazy socks. Happy Holidays!

Sincerely, Isla Ziockie Dear Santa, I have been good. I want an IPhone 8-plus, a new lol ball, a new Xbox and checkered Vans. I hope I get something. I love Christmas. It’s amazing.

I love Santa too. Some people say he is fake. I believe in Santa and his real name is Saint Nicholas. Santa if you read this, thank you for all the hard work and keep it on!

Love, Veronika

Dear Santa, I’ve been really good this year. For Christmas I would please like an American Girl Doll (Luciea) with accessories.

Another thing is an American Girl Doll house with accessories with clothes and pajamas and shoes. Another thing I want is an EZYroller. They are so fun.

Also another thing I want is a teal bike with a basket. I would also like to get a gymnastics mat. Please! Happy Holidays! Stay in touch!

Sincerely, Olivia J. Dear Santa, I have been good this year and patient for Christmas. So these are some things I would like for Christmas: New sneakers, a water bottle, and a Fit Bit Versa. I also want to know how Christmas is going for you? Down here it’s really warm. I bet yours is super cold.

Hope you have a good Christmas this year and a Happy New Year.

From, Joey Dear Santa, I have been good this year. I want an Ipad Pro, mats, clothes and a hover board. Please try your best to get me those things.

Love, Bella V. Dear Santa, I can’t wait for Christmas! I think I have been good this year. I hope I get all the presents I asked for. I really want the checkered Vans and an Ipad Pro. Also pick me POPS and clothes. But I would also love to get more slime supplies.

But what would make me happy is to give to the homeless.

Sincerely, Britney Dear Santa, I hope you get this note because these are the things I would for Christmas.

And here they are: new pair of headphones, phone, slime, computer, a gallon of Elmer’s glue, squishies and last but not least a giant unicorn stuffed animal.

Sincerely, Sayror Dear Santa, So far my year is great! For Christmas I would like to get a nice computer, gaming setup, for everyone to be healthy and rich. If I get those things it would be the best Christmas in my whole life. Mostly I want for everyone to be healthy and rich. I want that so all seven billion people Earth would have the best Christmas in their lives.

Merry Christmas!

Sincerely, Anthony

LETTERS TO SANTA

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

Dear Santa, First of all I would like another dog. My dog I have right now gets board a lot.

Then I would like a new bike. My bike you got me three years ago is too small and it is broken. Next, I would like a boat so I can go fishing when I am 12.

I would like a Boston Whaler. Last, I would want a phone because I don’t have one.

From, Robert Dear Santa, For Christmas, can I please have a motorcycle ring, hover board, gymnastic mat, unicorn lamp and a laptop. Santa I have been so good this year, just ask my elf but me and my sister get into fights but that’s it so Santa please get me this stuff.

Love, Amanda G. Dear Santa, I want a piano, khaki pants, suspenders, violin, flute, random big Lego set, Nerf gun, trip to Washington D.C., trip to New York, trip to San Francisco, BB gun, button down shirts, computer, $100 ITunesgift card, two giant-sized dark chocolate Hershey’s bars, billion dollars, toy cross bow and a Titanic movie disk. I plan on giving threequarters of the billion to a charity. I want you to give this to me because I was a good and smart boy this year.

And I also want to thank you making children happy this year.

Sincerely, Christopher Pizer Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a Nintendo Switch and games and I think I should get these games because I have been decently good this year. I have been looking at the speaker when they’re talking. I’ve been good in school and also in my house. That’s what I want and why I think I should get them.

Sincerely, Maximo Dear Santa, May I have a bunny for Christmas and the bunny cage. If you didn’t know I love animals. I had bunnies before.

Santa I love Christmas and still do. I will be nice and make you a present, cookies and milk. You are the best spirit ever!

Sincerely, Yaleny

Dear Santa, I am not going to start off by saying ‘I have been very good this year’ because that would be lying to you and I am not that type of person. I know I kick my brother a few thousand times but even you know he deserves it sometimes. I was wondering if I could be supper good till Christmas and you not put me on the naughty list. But I don’t really want much. What I really want is a puppy! A miniature golden doodle would be nice by the way!

Sincerely, Katie Dear Santa, I have been very good this year. This Christmas I would like five things.

First, I want a unicorn that has wings.

Secondly, I would also love to have art supplies. Thirdly, I would like some swimsuits so I can swim all year long.

In addition, I would love to have more stuffed animals. Last but not least, I want a lot of legos so I can build houses and other things.

Sincerely, Riley Dear Santa, For Christmas I want Roblox toys and Plants Vs. Zombies plushies. I have been good. It is getting close to Christmas. Santa I believe in you. Anyways what is your favorite cookie just asking and give the poor homeless some gifts.

I also want everybody to have a Merry Christmas! Oh, for my favorite toys please get me the cool ones. Okay, please Santa you are the most awesome, magical person I met so have a Merry Christmas!

From, Maximillian Dear Santa, I am so excited for this year’s Christmas. For Christmas I want to have an IPhone, a slime toy factory and have a new family car. I want a brand new computer, squishys and new shoes.

Those are all my wishes that I want for Christmas.

Sincerely, Keila Medina

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LETTERS TO SANTA

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

GROWNUPS’ LETTERS TO SANTA

Santa, I was going to say “Dear Santa” to be direct,but I have no idea if that is now politically correct!

Thank you for keeping the Red Tide away!

We don’t need that poison to ruin our day.

Thank you for moving to save the “Glades.”

Smart supporters should be holding parades.

Thank you for not going silly over the straws.

Water bottle people should be the outlaws!

Thank you for folks who love five oh one C-threes, Enough to bring a normal town down to its knees!

Thank you for Fire / Rescue / Sheriff, meeting the test.

In our town we know they are the best!

Thank you for our great Founders Park Always in use from sunrise till past dark.

Thank you for the tourists... (I’m faltering here...)

I guess because they buy so much gear.

(Or whatever else rhymes with “here”) Thank you for such a great community!

Through storm and stress seeing such unity!

Thank you, Dear Santa, for all that you brought.

Wishes for next year? I’ll give it some thought.

Frank Derfler Islamorada

Dear Santa, It’s been a bit since I last wrote you; this list could get complicated.

I’ve been up and down on the naughty or nice scale since you last had me on either list. I want a few items that you can pick up around the Keys while you pass through town late on the 24th or early on the 25th. I grew tired of asking for a Red Ryder BB gun, and I’m older now but haven’t grown up enough to not ask one more time; I promise not to shoot my eye out or anything cool like that. I’d like you to drop off a couple of tons of cat and kitten food as well as food for dogs and puppy food at our local shelters. If you can, let your long list of Santa’s little helpers know that they can drop off checks at all of the area shelters to take care of these fur babies. If you drop supplies off at the animal rescues and shelters, I really don’t need the BB gun; dogs and cats are a bunch more fun!

Fly safe, big man, Matt Bellinger

Dear Santa, In the spirit of Christmas, this year I am asking for gifts for others instead of myself and have put together a wish list I hope you will deliver.

A wrecking ball (not the Miley Cyrus kind) followed by a truckload of gold shovels for the Fishermen’s Community Hospital supporters.

A non-sausage-casing triathlon suit for Claudia Stober.

A pre-decorated 35-foot tree for Ken Gentes and Judy Hull.

A Certificate of Occupancy for Paul, Patricia, Makayla and Ashlynn Hann (this one is for me too, since they are living with me).

An uninterrupted night’s sleep for new parents Bobby and Audra Wallace.

A BIGGER table for Eric and Laura Ciampa.

The ability to send the right text to the right person for Doug Hill.

A bigger Christmas tree for Julie Landau.

Elves with construction experience for Jack Niedbalski.

A winning boat raffle ticket for Biron Valier.

Merry Christmas!

Wendy Gentes

Dear Santa, I know you are aware of our beautiful village, Islamorada. We have been very good here because we are Keys Strong, so please stop and leave us a few gifts. We are not needing much but…

Things on our list: happy tourists to promote our economy, clean water so our fishermen have good catches, rain and sun to help our environment, but no hurricanes — we had enough last year with Irma, and we wish for the Christmas spirit to last the whole year.

We want you to be safe and there will be no snow here. You will have to drive, so another gift for us would be to have only sober drivers on our roads. Lorelei would be a great place to stop and watch the sunset before you head north to snow country. If you are needing a short nap, I know there would be a room for you at the Key Lantern Motel (…think I know the owner).

Our firefighters and police deserve a nice gift also. They have worked very hard to keep us all safe. I suggest a visit from Rudolph and his reindeer team to compare safety tips on how they keep you safe and maybe play some reindeer games.

On your way back to the North Pole, you may want some breakfast.

Milk and cookies would be available at Mangrove Mike’s Café for you.

Islamorada, Village of Islands wishes a Merry Christmas to you, Mrs. Claus and all the elves that help you make Christmas an awesome time of year for us.

Islamorada Mayor Deb Gills

Dear Santa, The Florida Keys are waiting for your arrival, and we have been oh so good down here this year. Since I’m feeling awfully Santa-mental this season, I wrote you a song {to the tune of Jingle Bells}: Dashing through the Keys On a golf cart open ride O’er the US 1 Laughing through the tides, ha ha ha Iguana tail bells ring Making spirits bright Oh what fun it is to laugh and sing A Keysie song tonight!

Oh Santa Please, Santa Please Come to Conch Country Oh, what fun it is to plan Parties in the Keys, Hey! Santa Please, Santa Please Bring all of your reindeer, Frond and Feather will help you plan The holiday bash of the year!

I am incredibly grateful for the love and support in this island community.

For Christmas I’m wishing for an abundance of new opportunities for Frond and Feather Events here in the keys, so that I can spend more time enjoying my little ones, chasing sunsets and catching fish instead of catching flights to faraway places for my work.

Olivia Hammon Islamorada Dear Santa, This is going to be easy because I have heard that you have a lot, maybe thousands of them.

All I want for Christmas is elves.

Jolly, hard-working elves. We will feed them and take care of them. I don’t think I would even work them as hard as you do. I might even need them full-time. If they could work part-time during the week that would be great; we would need them a little bit more in season and then they might have to pull some 12-hour days when we have festivals like HolidayFest and Island Fest. But even still that would only be 12-hour days, and I heard that they never sleep, so it would be like working a half day. Would it be greedy to ask for six? If six is too many, I could probably get by with four. No less than two.

I would settle for one really good one.

But if you can’t send an elf, can you send me one or two cheerful humans who could fit the above criteria and could come work at the Chamber right away?

There is a made-to-order Key lime pie in it for you!

Thanks Santa see you on the 24th.

Judy Hull Islamorada Chamber director

23

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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24

LETTERS TO SANTA

Dear Santa, Thank you for all the great gifts you delivered last year; we appreciate it!

For this Christmas, could you please answer the questions I get from thousands of Scouts leaders and parents prior to their arrival at the Sea Base including: “Will I see a shark?”

“How deep is the water?” What kind of fish will I see?” “Will it be sunny while I am there?” “Is the food good?” and my favorite, “Will there be bugs on Big Munson Island?”

If you can’t do that (and it’s a tall order) please bring health and happiness to the Sea Base staff family. Also, please bring them what they want on their Christmas list, except for that one staff member (you know the one).

Please put coal in that stocking.

Mike Johnson, Florida Sea Base general manager Dear Santa, My Christmas wish is world peace but I know you’re a busy man and that might be kinda hard to swing considering the odds. So, my second wish is for peace on U.S.1 this season. After returning for my obligatory yearly trip to Toronto (this is what happens when you marry a Canuck) I realized just how lucky we are and I wish everyone driving this season would remember it too.

I want everyone to cut this picture out and tape it on the dash of your “Keys Cruiser” to help us remember how good we have it driving down U.S.1 in February. When you’re going 20 mph behind the Mustang taking selfies on top of Snake Creek, look at this picture. When you’re 10 minutes late and even the old road is bumper to bumper, look at this picture. When someone is riding your ass or passing in the middle lane, look at this picture.

No matter how bad we think the traffic is, look at this picture and remember how lucky we are to be driving in paradise every day.

The rest of my Christmas wishes are the same as most Keys’ residents.

A 17-foot Boston Whaler with at least a 90-hp engine, to go fishing with my kids more often, go treasure hunting in the mangroves (“wink”), eat more seafood, and for more people to DRINK LOCAL CRAFT BEER. Yeah, that last one I might be a little biased, too.

I wish for everyone to have an amazing year and enjoy our piece of paradise. Merry Christmas!

Peace, Cheryl McBay, Florida Keys Brewing Company

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

Dear Santa, Hope all is well and you’re ready for the big night!

It has been decades since I last wrote you. I won’t go into how many; you already know.

Overall, I should still be on your nice list. I realize there have been a few occasions I may have been placed on a temporary hold.

For the most part, every year as a child, I got what was on my wish list.

As an adult, I truly let my wish list go, until now.

So what do I want for Christmas?

Nothing for me; however, I have a few things to request: May our tourists find Key Largo and the Florida Keys as beautiful as I do and spend lots of time and money here in the Keys.

May our tourism-related businesses have a healthy 2019. If their business is good, the money will spread to other chamber businesses. And everyone will be happy!

Help us to grow the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, our past Chairman Robert Alonso’s motto was to have a chamber plaque in every business here in Key Largo and beyond.

Aid the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce in achieving our new Chairman Mark Charles’ goals, “Measured & Accomplished” – Improve our membership services, increase the advertising, develop our website, but most important, increase our tourism traffic here at the “original and official” Florida Keys Visitor Center - 106000 Overseas Hwy. (just in case you get confused).

Assist us in building our Chamber Foundation, a new 50 1(c)(3), which is in place to assist the business community in the form of grants, scholarships, and to the overall community.

Hope you can make it to our 2019 Chairman’s Gala on Jan. 12 – Magic of Motown- 305-451-1414 (call me for the tickets) May all who read my letter, and those who don’t, have a safe and peaceful holiday season. And, Happy New Year!

I realize Santa, my list is a strange request… Hope you can help Cheers, Elizabeth Moscysnki President Key Largo Chamber of Commerce

Dear Santa, My wish for this holiday is twofold. The first is to take me back to Dec. 25, 1954 so that I may once again relive the absolute paradise that is the Florida Keys. There were miles of open waterfront, conch, turtle, grouper and crawfish for the taking any time, anywhere and any amount; plentiful winter visitors but for the rest of the year only locals. A meal of fresh conch chowder aboard the Tampa sponge fishermen’s boat was always a treat.

The second part of this wish is to bring me back to Dec. 25, 2018.

We now have a hospital, dentist, supermarket, more than one school, mosquito control and let’s not forget air-conditioning. Looking back, we have lost many things, including some of the charm of the Florida Keys, but we have gained an equal amount in health, safety, convenience and lots of new friends.

In 1954 Santa would have probably considered me naughty; today in 2018 at the age of 83, what could I possibly be but nice?

Sylvia Murphy Mayor

Dear Santa: I know the usual request is for things people want, but would it be possible for you to fulfill a wish for something I don’t want?

Emails. Not the legitimate business ones, I’m okay with them. And most of the ones from family.

It’s the unwanted ones: the ones from people I don’t know; the ones with a sale on something I don’t need (even if it is a limited time or huge price break); the ones that look like they are from someone I know, but really are from someone I don’t want to know; any email from the IRS or regarding my bank account (even if it has an easy to click link to fix the problem); and especially any email with a typo or grammatical error in the regarding line or first sentence.

I know it is a tall order. I know your usual specialties are toys (and I always get socks for some reason????), but this is really what I want for Christmas.

Or a boat. Do what you can.

Thanks Santa.

Rob Stober

Dear Santa, Five years ago, I wished for relief from those naughty flood insurance increases and this year, I’m making the same request for our windstorm insurance rates. My only other wish is that you and your reindeer work extra hard to visit everyone in Monroe County, especially those who might not be back in their homes yet. It’s been a difficult year but as I’m sure you’ll see on Christmas Eve, we’re getting better every day!

Your Biggest Fan, Holly Raschein Dear Santa,

All I want for Christmas is some fresh seafood from Key Largo Fisheries Market & Café. Fish, lobster and stone crab, oh my! Oh, don’t forget the conch salad, lobster bisque and the Key lime pie! The lobster BLTs from the BackYard Cafe is my favorite sandwich and the smoked fish dip there is divine. You should get some for yourself as well.

If you can’t swing the seafood, then I’ll take a boat, three fishing poles, and a year’s supply of chum. If you get me the boat, I’ll take you fishing.

Thanks Santa!

Merry Christmas,

Tim Hill from sunny South Florida

Dear Santa,

You are the best Santa ever. You give toys to all the boys and girls throughout the world. You give really cool dinosaurs too. All I want for Christmas is a Bat Cave, Bane (Batman Villain), the Flash, a new Pirate Ship and Power Rangers, all of them. I think that’s everything, and if you could get my daddy some fresh seafood from Key Largo Fisheries’ Market & Café that would be awesome to.

Theodore Hill

25

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 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!

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

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.

Apply online at:

www.noblehousehotels.com/careers

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

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

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

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine, Key West and Stock Island Locations

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

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

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.

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

• Housekeeper • Guest Services Associate/ Relief Night Auditor

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

26

SEEN AROUND TOWN

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

ROARIN’ GOOD TIME Poker Run draws large crowd

1 2

3

The Oceanview was full of roars Dec. 15 as motorcyclists pulled into their last stop for the Florida Keys Toys for Tots Motorcycle Poker Run. Beginning at Gilbert’s Resort in Key Largo, 160 motorcycles— along with one 1940 Jeep with a .50 caliber machine gun from the Military Museum at the Metro Miami Zoo — made their way to Pilot House and Dillions before ending at the OV. Food, drinks, music and a celebration followed, not only for the county’s biggest Toys for Tots program, but also for local coordinator and retired U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Louis “Gunny” Slagle. Kim Stevenson, Toys for Tots co-coordinator, presented Slagle with a trophy for his many years of dedicated work locally with Toys for Tots. It also recognized his 71st birthday.

“We take care of more and more children each year,” Slagle said. “We’re going to make sure all the children in the Keys have a great Christmas.”

Slagle said almost 7,000 toys are directly shipped to the schools in Monroe County. Toys also are given to single families and various nonprofits throughout the Keys.

More information is at floridakeys. toysfortots.org or the Florida Keys Toys for Tots’ Facebook page.

—Weekly staff report JIM McCARTHY/Keys Weekly

4

5

1. Motorcyclists make their way into the OV on Dec. 15 for the Florida Keys Toys for Tots Poker Run. 2. Florida Keys Toys for Tots local coordinator and retired U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Louis Slagle smiles as he holds his trophy.

3. Callum and Lisa outside their 1973 MG. 4. A young Marine carries in a bag of toys as motorcycles roll into the OV driveway.

5. Young Marines unload toys.

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844

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

EOE m/f/d/v

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

Licensed Nail Technician Reservations Agent

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

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

We Buy Gold Locally!

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Cash Flow Jewelry and Pawn

JOB OPENINGS

PT Boutique Sales Agent

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

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

CROSSWORD

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES KEY WEST Assistant Branch Manager-Winn Dixie Full & Part Time Tellers Treasury Management Representative II

KEY LARGO

Customer Service Representative 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

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

Townsquare Mall Marathon

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) Adult Case Manager (4786) Research Assistant (4785)

Background/Drug Screening Required.

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

27

SUDOKU SOLUTION

28

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 AUTOS WANTED

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

ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

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

BOATS FOR SALE 2000 Angler Center Console w/2 115HP 4-stroke Yamaha motors.

Recently rebuilt w/new heads. Trailer included.

Many electronic accessories. Boat owned

by Mickey Belin. Good condition. Located in Marathon $12,900 520444-3954

EMPLOYMENT Sea Dell Motel Hiring Evening Desk Clerk.

Some basic computer skills needed. Personable & outgoing.

Great working environment.

5000 Overseas Highway, Marathon. 216-509-4400 Salon Blanco has job opportunities for a receptionist, massage therapist and nail tech.

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

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.

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.

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

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

EMPLOYMENT

HOMES FOR RENT

11528 Overseas Highway.

Long-term rental2BR/1BA in Marathon, unfurnished, nonwaterfront, no pets. $1,600/month. F/L/S 305395-2095

Key West.

For Rent: 1/2 Duplex Conch House in Marathon.

Long-term.

Waterview.

Furnished: $1,700/month includes util. Unfurnished: $1,400/ month + util. No Pets.

F/L/S 305-900-0121

DAC III will meet on Wednesday January 9, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. at Hyatt Place in Marathon.

Long-term rental- Brand new 3 Bedroom home in Marathon.

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

305-481-7544

DAC V will meet on Tuesday January 8, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. at the Murray Nelson Government Center in Key Largo.

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

NOW HIRING: Heavy Equipment Operator needed in the Upper Keys. Contact 305-852-3002 or email: admin@ cbtconstruct.com 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 Experienced Help Only needed for all positions.

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

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

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 for January, February, March 2019. References available. 410-629-9232

YARD SALES A BIG Treasures & Trash Yard Sale- Rain or Shinethis FRIDAY, Dec. 20 from 7:30am-3pm.

Everything must go. 419 Sombrero Beach Road, Marathon

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETINGS MONROE COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL DISTRICT ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETINGS DAC I will meet on Wednesday January 9, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. at the Margaritaville Resort in

LEGAL NOTICES DAC II will meet on Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre in Key West.

DAC IV will meet on Tuesday January 8, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at the Islander Resort in Islamorada.

All DAC meetings are open to the public.

ADA ASSISTANCE: If you are a person with a disability who needs special accommodations in order to participate in this proceeding, please contact the County Administrator's Office, by phoning (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) calendar days prior to the scheduled meeting; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call "711".

Publish: December 20, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers Florida Keys Council of the Arts Notice of Upcoming Meetings Cultural Umbrella Committee Meeting Friday, January 4th, 2019 at 12:00 noon Hyatt Place Marathon, Private Dining Room Lighthouse Grill, Marathon, FL Art in Public Places Committee Meeting Tuesday, January 8th, 2019, at 4:00 p.m.

Gato Building, 1st Floor Conference Room, Key West, FL Board of Directors Meeting at 3:00 p.m. followed by Annual Members Meeting at 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019 Matt’s Stock Island Restaurant at the Perry Hotel 7001 Shrimp Road, Stock Island, FL Meetings are open to the public and all are invited to attend.

Questions? Call the Arts Council office at 305-295-4369.

Publish: December 20, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given that on 1/4/19 at 10:30 am, the following mobile home will be sold at public auction pursuant to F.S. 715.109: 1980 HOME #0361128N Last tenants: Etoral E Arroway & Richard Lloyd Balkin.

Sale to be held at Roy’s Trailer Park Inc- 402 Appelrouth Ln, Key West, FL 33040, 305-293-8888.

Publish: December 20 & 27, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

LEGAL NOTICES

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH, FL Wastewater System Operation RFP 2019 WWTPS The City of Key Colony Beach is accepting competitive proposals from qualified firms to provide Wastewater Treatment Plant and associated Collection System(s) herein entitled “WWTPS” Operations.

The intent of this Request for Proposal (RFP) is to obtain sealed proposals from qualified and experienced firms who are interested in assisting the City of Key Colony Beach by providing WWTPS. The selected firm must have knowledge of and provide all services in full compliance with all applicable local, State, and Federal laws, regulations, executive orders, and have the proper licensing requirements to operate the City’s WWTPS. The City will receive proposals at the location stated below until 3:00 p.m. on Monday, January 21, 2019 at which time they will be opened and read aloud publically. Submittals received after this deadline will not be considered.

The complete submittal consisting of 1 original, 1 copy and 1 pdf (cd or thumb drive) must be delivered to City Hall in a sealed package, clearly marked on the outside RFP 2019 WWTPS and addressed to: City of Key Colony Beach Attn: Chris Moonis, City Administrator RFP 2019 WWTPS P.O. BOX 510141, 600 WEST OCEAN DRIVE KEY COLONY BEACH, FL 33051-0141 Hand delivered submittals shall be taken to the City Administrator’s office at the above address.

To receive a copy of this Request for Proposal (RFP) or for information concerning this RFP, including specific requirements and evaluation criteria, please visit www.keycolonybeach. net., or contact, the City Administrator at (305) 849-0273 or cmoonis@ keycolonybeach.net.

The CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH reserves the rights to negotiate with any or all firms submitting proposals.

Small and minority businesses, women’s business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms are encouraged to submit qualifications and firms using subcontractors must solicit such firms in the subcontracting process.

The CITY OF KEY COLONY BEACH is an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, persons with disabilities, or limited English proficiency.

Publish: December 20, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on January 10, 2019, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: SALE OF SIX (6) MONROE COUNTY FIRE RESCUE SURPLUS VEHICLES 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 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 at The Gato Building, 1100 Simonton Street, Room 2-213, Key West, Florida. All responses must be sealed and must be submitted to the Monroe County Purchasing Office.

M.C. I.D. # Serial Number Asset Description Date Purchased Orig. & Estimated/Present Value 3562 1GBL7D1G9GV107111 1986 Chevy Squad 11/19/1986 $103,509/$0 3351 46JABAA84L1003415 1990 E-One Hush Pumper 04/01/1994 $192,353/$0 3608 1FVXJLCB6YHA28819 1999 Freightliner American LaFrance Tanker 09/30/1999 $166,932/$0 4698 4P1CS01A35A005314 2005 Pierce Pumper 07/20/2005 $344,169/$0 3535 3HTMKADR63N584221 2003 Pierce Pumper 04/01/2003 $195,706/$0 6276 4P1CE01A27A007887 2007 Pierce Enforcer Pumper 12/18/2007 $374,864/$0 Publish: December 20, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA CIVIL ACTION Case No: 2017-CA000372-P U.S. Bank, National Association, as Trustee, Successor-in-Interest to Bank of America, N.A., as Trustee, Successor to Lasalle Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Structured Asset Securities Corporation Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005WF Plaintiff, -vs.John Emmett Gannaway a/k/a John E. Gannaway; Unknown Spouse of John Emmett Gannaway a/k/a John E. Gannaway; Unknown Parties in Possession #1, if living, and all Unknown Par-

29

UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • 305.743.0844 LEGAL NOTICES ties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants; Unknown Parties in Possession #2, if living, and all Unknown Parties claiming by, through, under and against the above named Defendant(s) who are not known to be dead or alive, whether said Unknown Parties may claim an interest as Spouse, Heirs, Devisees, Grantees, or Other Claimants Defendant(s).

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to order rescheduling foreclosure sale or Final Judgment, entered in Civil Case No. 2017-CA000372-P of the Circuit Court of the 16th Judicial Circuit in and for Monroe County, Florida, wherein U.S. Bank, National Association, as Trustee, Successor-in-Interest to Bank of America, N.A., as Trustee, Successor to Lasalle Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Structured Asset Securities Corporation Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-WF1, Plaintiff and John Emmett Gannaway a/k/a John E. Gannaway are defendant(s), I, Clerk of Court, Kevin Madok,CPA, will sell to the highest and best bidder for cash AT THE MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, KEY WEST, FL 33040, AT 11:00 A.M. on January 9, 2019, the following described property as set forth in said Final Judgment, to-wit: LOTS 12 AND 13, BLOCK 25, AMENDED PLAT OF KEY LARGO PARK, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 3, PAGE 62, OF THE PUBLIC RECORDS OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA. ANY PERSON CLAIMING AN INTEREST IN THE SURPLUS FROM THE SALE, IF ANY, OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OWNER AS OF THE DATE OF THE LIS PENDENS MUST FILE A CLAIM WITHIN 60 DAYS AFTER THE SALE. Florida Rules of Judicial Administration Rule 2.540 Notices to Persons With Disabilities If you are a person with a disability who needs any accommodation in order to participate in this proceeding, you are entitled, at no cost to you, to the provision of certain assistance. Please contact Cheryl Alfonso, ADA Coordinator, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 at least 7 days before your scheduled court appearance, or immediately upon receiving this notification if the time before the scheduled appearance is less than 7 days; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call 711.

SPANISH: Si usted es una persona discapacitada que necesita alguna adaptación para poder participar de este procedimiento o evento; usted tiene derecho, sin costo alguno a que se le provea cierta ayuda. Favor de comunicarse con Cheryl Alfonso, Coordinadora de A.D.A Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652 por lo menos 7 días antes de que tenga que comparecer en corte o inmediatamente después de haber recibido

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

ésta notificación si es que falta menos de 7 días para su comparecencia. Si tiene una discapacidad auditiva ó de habla, llame al 711.

DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED.

KREYOL: Si ou se yon moun ki kokobé ki bezwen asistans ou aparêy pou ou ka patisipé nan prosedu sa-a, ou gen dwa san ou pa bezwen péyé anyen pou ou jwen on seri de èd. Tanpri kontakté Cheryl Alfonso, Co-ordinator ADA, Court Operations Manager, 502 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040, 305-295-3652O'mwen 7 jou avan ke ou gen pou-ou parèt nan tribunal, ou imediatman ke ou resevwa avis sa-a ou si lè ke ou gen pou-ou alé nan tribunal-la mwens ke 7 jou; Si ou pa ka tandé ou palé byen, rélé 711.

Personal Representative: LYNN ICKES-DUFFY

Kevin Madok,CPA CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT Monroe County, Florida Gwen Douglass DEPUTY CLERK OF COURT Submitted By: ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFF: SHAPIRO, FISHMAN & GACHÉ, LLP 2424 North Federal Highway, Suite 360 Boca Raton, Florida 33431 (561) 998-6700 (561) 998-6707 Publish: December 20 and December 27, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 18-CP-000149-P IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN PURDY DUFFY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of JOHN PURDY DUFFY, deceased, whose date of death was JUNE 5, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, File Number 18-CP000149-P, 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 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 ON OR BEFORE 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 the 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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. NOT WITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S

The date of the first publication of this notice is December 20, 2018.

Attorneys for Personal Representative: BART H. CHEPENIK, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 0038962 Primary E-mail: bchepenik@ ctllp.com Secondary E-mail: probateservice@ctllp.com MONIQUE M. SADARANGANI, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 105534 Primary E-mail: msadarangani@ctllp.com Secondary E-mail: probateservice@ctllp.com Chepenik Trushin LLP Attorneys for Personal Representative 12550 Biscayne Boulevard, Suite 805 Miami, Florida 33181 Telephone: (305) 981-8889 Facsimile: (305) 405-7979 Publish: December 20 and December 27, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 2018-CP-150-P IN RE: ESTATE OF ANTHONY FERNICOLA, SR., Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ANTHONY FERNICOLA, SR., deceased, whose date of death was November 1, 2018, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070.

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 ON OR BEFORE 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 FLORIDA STATUTES SECTION 733.702 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 20, 2018.

Personal Representative: ANTHONY FERNICOLA, JR. 40821 North Courage Drive Anthem, AZ 85086 Attorney for Personal Representative:

LEGAL NOTICES MEGHAN E. MILLER, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 1003898 JAMES S. LUPINO, ESQ. Florida Bar No. 244481 Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel, LLP 90130 Old Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 Publish: December 20 and December 27, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE 16TH CIRCUIT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 18-CP-000100-P JUDGE: SHARON I. HAMILTON IN RE: ESTATE OF JOAN F. MAHONEY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The ancillary administration of the Estate of Joan F. Mahoney, deceased, whose date of death was July 13, 2017, File No. 18-CP-000100-P is pending in the Circuit Court of Monroe County, Florida, Plantation Key Courthouse, 88820 Overseas Highway, Tavernier, FL 33070.

The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below. The date of first publication of this notice is December 20, 2018.

Pursuant to Section 733.702 of the Florida Probate Code, all creditors and those having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, upon whom a copy of this notice has been served are required to file their claims with the above named court within the later of 3 months after the date 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 having claims or demands against decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent or unliquidated claims, are required to file their claims with the above-named court within 3 months after the date of the first publication of this notice.

ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED 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. Co-Personal Representative: Steven D. Mahoney, CoPersonal Representative 31 Pryor Lane Lake Placid, Florida 33852 George D. Mahoney, CoPersonal Representative 3058 New Williamsburg Drive Schenectady, New York 12303 Attorneys for Personal Representative: POLLACK, POLLACK & KOGAN, LLC Bretton I. Pollack, Esq. Courthouse Tower, Suite 2050 44 West Flagler Street Miami, Florida 33130 Telephone: (305) 373-9676 Facsimile: (305) 373-9379 Publish: December 20 and December 27, 2018 The Weekly Newspapers

THEME: POPULAR PASTIMES ACROSS 1. Smoothing tool 5. Fireplace mess 8. *Make a scarf, then a sweater 12. Nasal input 13. Crunched info 14. Like a snicker 15. Cautionary offering 16. *Caddie’s offering 17. Ringworm 18. *Current game 20. Bookkeeping entry 21. Express November sentiments 22. Big bang maker 23. Beach Boys: “Be True to Your ____” 26. Deducible 30. COI, OSS, SSU, CIG, ____ 31. *Interlocking challenge 34. ____ of the game 35. Legal excuse 37. Acorn maker 38. Poet Nash 39. Spanish surrealist Joan 40. Tolkien’s “The Two ____” 42. Denotes financial loss 43. Kickbacks 45. Ducks with valued down 47. Ornamental carp 48. Harvest helper 50. Chalupa alternative 52. Virginia Slim, e.g.

56. *What football and baseball have in common, pl.

57. “Put a lid ____ ____!”

58. *Hang out on the ocean or online 59. Lock horns 60. Eyeball 61. Hissy fit 62. Michael Myers’ move 63. “To Kill a Mockingbird” author 64. Thanksgiving tubers

DOWN 1. Campus drillers 2. Month before Nisan 3. Stag 4. Faster than allegro 5. Hammerin’ Hank 6. Delivery bird?

7. 3rd H in 4-H, sing.

8. *Needlecraft 9. *Half a round 10. Footnote word 11. *Afternoon’s high 13. Hindu Festival of Lights 14. The Police lead singer 19. Japanese room divider 22. Parker’s angst 23. Little rascal 24. Locomotive hair 25. Like Bigfoot 26. *You fly fish in it 27. Core of personnel 28. Independent African ruler 29. Gives a helping hand 32. Messy substances 33. Horror movie franchise 36. *Bibliophiles’ get-together 38. Willow twig 40. *____ Chi 41. Make a connection 44. Opposite of tea bag 46. Black-tie 48. *Watch a season in a week, e.g.

49. Catlike 50. Queen of Hearts’ pastry 51. Aquatic plant 52. Fairly cold 53. Blackfin or Yellowfin 54. Barbershop request 55. Newts in terrestrial stage 56. Art degrees

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018

SPREADING CHEER 1

Parade gathers toys, delivers fun Santa Claus and carolers hit the town on the evening of Dec. 16 to spread holiday cheer throughout the Islamorada community. Beginning in Lower Matecumbe, the Islamorada Fire Rescue Santa Parade ended at Plantation Shores Drive and Bee Street. Fire trucks and vehicles were decked out in lights as onlookers waved and awaited Santa’s arrival. Toys were also collected from designated neighborhoods and sites for Toys for Tots. The almost four hours of evening fun was sponsored by the Islamorada Firefighters Benevolent Associate and Islamorada Fire Rescue.

— Weekly staff report

DOUG FINGER/Keys Weekly 1. Colin Kilmurray of Tavernier, at center facing, spends the last hours of his 7th birthday on Bee Street with Santa and his carolers during the Islamorada Fire Rescue Santa Parade.

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2. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Alberto Gomez talks with parade-goers on Bee Street during the Islamorada Fire Rescue Santa Parade’s last stop of the night.

At back, children play in soap bubbles.

3. Santa and his carolers arrive on Bee Street during the Islamorada Fire Rescue Santa Parade.

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UPPER KEYS WEEKLY / DECEMBER 20, 2018