Key West Weekly 20-1203

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Key West has a broken heart.

December 3, 2020

NEW RULES FOR NEW YEAR’S EVE?

CITY OFFICIALS TO CONSIDER PROTECTIVE MEASURES | P. 4

NEW BOARD MEANS BUSINESS

KEY WEST BUSINESS GUILD INSTALLS NEW LEADERS | P. 24

LIGHT IT UP CASA MARINA LIGHTS TREE BY THE SEA & WRAPS UP TOY DRIVE | P. 6

WINNER TRIPADVISOR 2020 TRAVELERS’ CHOICE AWARD We are honored to be ranked among the TOP 10% OF RESTAURANTS WORLDWIDE. A special thank you to our suppliers, our staff and most of all, each and every one of our valued customers. Thank you — Maura & Danny Hughes

OLD KEY WEST WITH A TWIST OF SOMETHING NEW 512 FRONT STREET | WWW.TWOFRIENDS.COM

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

ONE UNIQUE PROPERTY TWO EXCEPTIONAL HOMES COUNTLESS MEMORIES TO BE MADE

287 & 289 GOLF CLUB DRIVE | KEY WEST KeyWestGolfClubCompound.com Listing ID 593486 Jeffrey Dunaway, Realtor® 305.360.3049 | jrmdunaway@earthlink.net

1109 Duval Street, Key West Toll free 1.800.654.5131 | Phone 305.294.3064 keywestrealty.com

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KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

NUMBER OF THE WEEK

5450 MacDonald Ave. No.5 Key West, FL 33040 Office: 305.453.6928 www.keysweekly.com

Publisher

Britt Myers britt@keysweekly.com

Publishing Partner

Jason Koler jason@keysweekly.com

Editor

Mandy Miles mandy@keysweekly.com

Copy Editor

Mike Howie mike@keysweekly.com

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The temperature in Key West dropped to 63 degrees on Dec. 2 and 3, representing the coolest temperature so far this fall and prompting residents to wear long sleeves and socks.

ON THE COVER Sand sculptor Marianne Van den Broek creates an 11-foot Christmas tree from sand at the Casa Marina Resort on Dec. 2. The hotel will host a tree-lighting to wrap up its toy drive at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

NEW YEAR’S EVE & NEW TOUR VEHICLES TOP CITY AGENDA OFFICIALS CONSIDER PROTECTIVE MEASURES FOR DEC. 31

Account Executives

Stephanie Mitchell stephanie@keysweekly.com

Staff Writers

Sara Matthis sara@keysweekly.com Jim McCarthy jim@keysweekly.com Tiffany Duong tiffany@keysweekly.com

Production Manager

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com

Circulation Manager

Charlotte Hruska char@keysweekly.com

Design / Web Master

Travis Cready travis@keysweekly.com

Design / Pre-Press

Irene de Bruijn irene@keysweekly.com Javier Reyes javier@keysweekly.com

Classifieds

Anneke Patterson anneke@keysweekly.com 305.743.0844

Se habla español

THE KEY WEST 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.

POSTMASTER:

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO THE KEYS WEEKLY, 9709 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY, MARATHON FL 33050

News Deadline

Tuesday Noon

Advertising Deadline Tuesday 2 p.m.

Sloppy Joe’s Bar has already announced the cancellation of its annual conch shell drop, which draws packed crowds to lower Duval Street at midnight on New Year’s Eve. CAROL TEDESCO/Florida Keys News Bureau

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

W

hat, if anything, should the city do to limit the spread of COVID-19 on New Year’s Eve, when shoulder-to-shoulder crowds congregate throughout downtown Key West?

Do nothing and let personal responsibility dictate behavior? Cancel all outdoor events? Implement a 10 p.m. curfew? Position security monitors in each block to enforce the mask mandate?

All of the above were mentioned in a recent online survey seeking public input about potential protective measures to keep Key West “open and safe”on New Year’s Eve. The Key West City Commission meets at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 3 to discuss their New Year’s Eve options. See keysweekly.com for updates from the meeting.

Some 1,300 people responded to the survey over three days, with the mixed results mirroring the division in town, often pitting busi-

ness owners and working residents against wealthy retirees and government employees whose incomes have not been affected by the pandemic and its associated closures.

“We had a very good balance between bar/restaurant and general community members (who responded to the survey). In that sense, the survey represents the community at large very well,” said Elisa Levy, the city’s strategic planning consultant.

“There was an almost even break between the two extremes.

‘Doing nothing’ was 19.88%, while a ‘10 p.m. curfew’ received 21.89%.

This is indicative of the community overall right now. We are divided — evenly split between shutting the event down and keeping it wide open with no rules. Most people fell somewhere in between.

“The four options that got the most support were: Increase monitors and security to enforce mask rules for people walking (42.47%); cancel all outside events (42.19%); close off Duval to move people outdoors (38.43%); encourage outside dining (32.25%).

Outdoor events include Sushi and the pirate wench drops. Sloppy Joe’s already canceled its conch shell drop, Levy reported.

In addition to the New Year’s Eve discussion, the Dec. 3 commission agenda also includes a coronavirus update from the health department at the start of the meeting and a COVID discussion by the mayor as the final agenda item.

New sightseeing vehicles?

It’s been years since the city of Key West considered any requests to add new sightseeing vehicles to the city streets. But a local businessman wants to do just that.

Blake Feldman, who owns The Green Room bar, is seeking approval to operate up to 21 “Beer Bikes,” under the business name Pedal Party Shuttle.

You’ve seen the vehicles in other cities — pedal-powered mobile bars.

The vehicles Feldman is proposing for Key West — 15 14-seaters and six seven-seaters — are solar- and human-powered, with users pedalling on each side and a mobile “bar’ in the center. The company would be known as Pedal Party Tours, according to documentation submitted to the city.

Sightseeing tour operations have been an issue for the city in the past.

Key West was ordered in 2010 to pay an $8 million settlement to the owners of Duck Tours Seafari, which successfully sued the city in the late ’90s, claiming its sightseeing franchises with Historic Tours

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

A Key West businessman is seeking approval to operate up to 21 pedal-powered ‘Beer Bikes’ in Key West. CONTRIBUTED

of America violated antitrust laws.

Historic Tours of America also paid Duck Tours an undisclosed settlement amount.

Following the Duck Tours lawsuit and settlement, the city agreed to hold a public hearing in October of every even-numbered year to determine whether it’s in the public interest to issue additional vehiclefor-hire licenses, City Attorney Shawn Smith reminded the city commissioners in a Nov. 10 memo.

In making that determination, the commission will consider the number of existing vehicles-forhire; whether existing transportation is adequate for the public need and the probable effect of increased service on local traffic conditions, Smith’s memo states.

Bahama Village housing Key West lawmakers will discuss changes to zoning laws that would allow for more affordable housing to be built on a six-acre parcel at Truman Waterfront. The development has been discussed and debated for more than a decade and no decisions have been finalized.

The city commission will hold yet another affordable housing workshop in January to determine what’s possible and most beneficial at the Truman Waterfront property.

Mayor Teri Johnston reminded the commissioners last month that government-funded housing programs will not allow for residency discrimination, meaning the city would not be able to designate those units for current Bahama Village residents.

“If that’s the expectation, and I believe it is, then we need all the facts,” said Johnston, who also wants the city to hire a housing director “so we’re not doing this in bits and pieces that take 13 years.”

Vice Mayor Sam Kaufman has also suggested that the city consider options for home ownership at that waterfront parcel, while Commissioner Mary Lou Hoover pointed out that the nonprofit AH Monroe has already successfully built more than 200 housing units.

“Have we considered partnering with AH Monroe?” Hoover asked last month. “Let’s not reinvent the wheel when we have people in town who have already done this.”

The zoning change would increase the allowed density to 40 units per acre at the Truman Waterfront property.

The new zoning district “will allow for high-density affordable, affordable workforce and market rate housing at 40 dwelling units per acre and neighborhood oriented non-residential uses,” planning director Katie Halloran wrote. “The new zone shall expand the Bahama Village community and link Historic Bahama Village with the Truman Waterfront. The zoning district shall provide open spaces linked with multimodal green ways, public access to Truman Waterfront, affordable housing, neighborhood retail, social services, and historical and educational nodes that shall serve as an extension of the neighborhood fabric of Bahama Village.

See keysweekly.com for the results of the Dec. 3 city commission meeting.

FWC ARRESTS FISHERMAN WITH STOLEN BOAT HULL ID NUMBERS HAD BEEN ALTERED

A

Florida Fish & Wildlife investigation started on Halloween and ended this week with an arrest when a commercial fisherman was found with a stolen boat and trailer.

FWC officers stopped a commercial fisherman aboard a 22-foot Boston Whaler on Oct. 31 off Marathon for a resource and safety check.

Although no fishing violations were noted, and most safety gear was present, officers noticed a discrepancy between the boat’s Hull Identification Number and the vessel’s description in state records.

“Upon further inspection of the 22-foot Boston Whaler Dauntless, I observed a discoloration in the gelcoat on both the forward starboard and forward port sides,” the FWC officer wrote in his report. “The discoloration displayed the vessel registration numbers FL 0792 RZ. Investigator Garrison then ran a record check through dispatch on the vessel registration numbers FL 0792 RZ. Dispatch informed us that vessel registration number was assigned to a 22-foot Boston Whaler Dauntless that had been reported stolen out of Fort Lauderdale on Sept. 9, 2019.”

After following the boat’s operator, Alfonso Rodriguez, back to a dock off Grouper Drive in Marathon, officers also noticed that the HIN appeared to be riveted on and painted over, the report states.

The boat and trailer were seized and a warrant was issued for Rodrguez’s arrest.

— Contributed

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KEYS HOLIDAYS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

TOYS & SAND TANNENBAUMS

CASA MARINA HOSTS TOY DRIVE & TREE LIGHTING

T

he holiday season is in full swing at Key West’s Casa Marina and The Reach resorts, where employees and guests have been donating hundreds of unwrapped toys for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Key West.

The toy drive ended Dec. 2, and on Thursday, Dec. 3, the Casa Marina will host its first-ever Sand Sculpture Tree Lighting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. During that ceremony, hotel staff will present the donated gifts to the Boys and Girls Club. Anyone who brings an unwrapped toy to the tree-lighting will receive a free drink, said hotel manager Evelyn Summer.

The hotel’s unique sand-sculptured Christmas tree was created by the hotel’s resident sand sculptor Marianne Van den Broek, who regularly creates designs made from sand and water at the hotel.

Van den Broek’s “tree” is 11 feet tall and took three days and 3,000 pounds of sand to create and carve. It is adorned with sand ornaments and real lights that will be illuminated Thursday evening when two young Boys & Girls Club members push the “plunger” to light her up. The actual lighting will be done in partnership with Chip of PSAV. The happy hour event includes free cookies and punch for the kids.

Live entertainment will accompany the event, offering a chance for the kids to sing holiday songs that they’ve been rehearsing. Key West’s own Spectrelles will also perform.

The hotel’s “Tree by the Sea” will remain on display until Dec. 9, offering ample opportunity for hotel guests and locals to take photos with it after the tree-lighting and toy drive ceremony.

Banquet manager Lubos Sarissky and hotel manager Evelyn Summer position hundreds of holiday gifts collected during a toy drive under the Christmas tree at the Casa Marina Resort. The gifts will be distributed to children through the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Florida Keys. MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly

Sand sculptor Marianne Van den Broek creates an 11-foot Christmas tree from sand at Key West’s Casa Marina Resort. The tree will be lighted at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 3.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

BRIEFLY

Mayor Teri Johnston, Piper Smith, Stephen Sunday and Fran Decker are part of the ongoing effort to encourage local philanthropists to donate trees to the city. ALYSON CREAN/City of Key West

KEY WEST LOCALS DONATE TREES Philanthropist Stephen Sunday has been spearheading an effort to encourage other philanthropists to donate trees for the city. Last week a small representative group (small due to health safety measures) gathered for the planting of four new trees in the historic Key West Cemetery.

GIRL RESCUED FROM STOCK ISLAND FIRE Firefighters rescued a 13-year-old girl from a trailer fire near Cross Street and 5th Avenue on Stock Island at about 5 p.m. on Dec. 1.

The girl was found in a back bedroom and taken to Lower Keys Medical Center for smoke inhalation treatment.

Her condition was listed as stable that night.

There were no serious injuries reported.

Monroe County Fire Rescue firefighters arrived shortly after two sheriff’s deputies, who were first on the scene, and were able to enter the structure, finding and safely removing the girl inside. The Florida Department of Children and Families was notified of the case and officials are investigating the blaze.

The trailer appeared to be a total loss, the sheriff’s office reports MAN ARRESTED FOR BRANDISHING HANDGUN A 36-year-old Stock Island fruit stand vendor was arrested Dec. 1 for threatening to shoot another vendor after the business competitor/victim

declined to raise his sugar cane juice prices.

Yoan Torres Quinones was charged with aggravated assault with a weapon, carrying a concealed firearm without a license and improper exhibition of a weapon.

There were no injuries reported.

The 50-year-old victim, also of Stock Island, initially flagged down a Key West police officer near the Hurricane Hole Restaurant & Marina at about 4 p.m. Deputy Antonio Guieb arrived a short time later. The victim showed Guieb a cell phone video of the incident. The video showed the victim and another male, later identified as Torres Quinones, arguing in Spanish. Torres Quinones then lifts up his shirt and brandishes a handgun in his waistband.

The victim stated Torres Quinones came over to his fruit stand and started arguing with him for undercutting his price on sugar cane juice by one dollar.

Torres Quinones demanded the victim raise his sugar cane juice price to the same $3, but the victim declined. Torres Quinones then displayed the handgun and said he would fire every bullet into the victim.

Guieb then went to Torres Quinones’ stand on 5th Street.

Torres Quinones was wearing the same clothes as seen in the video. A gun matching the features seen in the video was found in his vehicle. The firearm was a loaded .380-caliber Bersa handgun.

Torres Quinones was taken to jail.

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Romans 16:16 NKJV For those who wish to attend via teleconference dial 774.258.4149 or alternate # 716.293.9794 at the times listed above.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

ACTIVE STORM SEASON SPARES FLORIDA KEYS KEY WESTERS BURN HURRICANE FLAG ON NOV. 30

JIM McCARTHY

jim@keysweekly.com

CONGRESSMAN-ELECT POSITIVE FOR COVID GIMENEZ, WIFE REPORTEDLY IN ‘GOOD CONDITION’

The annual burning of the red and black hurricane warning flag in Key West signals the end of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season on Nov. 30. MANDY MILES/ Keys Weekly

MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

F

rom Arthur to Iota, the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season came to an end on Nov. 30 after setting a record for the most named storms in a season.

In keeping with tradition, a contingent of Key West residents gathered Nov. 30 to burn the redand-black hurricane warning flag.

Dr. Jack Norris, who has been a critical voice and caretaker amid the city’s COVID pandemic, did the honors by dousing the flag with locally made rum from Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery.

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard were present for the ceremony that took place next to the historic USCGC Ingham museum.

The lighthearted Conch Republic Navy also presided over the ritual.

The 30 tropical storms and hurricanes used all 20 names on the World Meteorological Organization’s alphabetical list — from Tropical Storm Arthur in May to Tropical Storm Vicky in September.

After that, the storms were named for the letters of the Greek alphabet.

A record-setting 12 named storms, including six hurricanes, made landfall in the United States, with Louisiana suffering five hits.

Despite devastation in the United States, Caribbean and Central America, the relentless storm season largely spared the Florida Keys, where Tropical Storm Eta toppled trees and billboards in the Upper Keys, but left homes and businesses intact. None of the storms prompted evacuations from the island chain.

“One reason this season was so active is La Niña, a weather pattern caused by the interaction of the ocean and atmosphere in the Pacific,” reports NPR. “Michael Mann, an atmospheric scientist at Pennsylvania State University, says another important factor — ocean temperatures in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico — set new records this year. Mann says, ‘What we have this year is sort of a perfect storm, no pun intended, of very warm ocean waters and a La Niña pattern that reduces vertical wind shear, creating yet a more favorable environment for these storms to form.’

“Scientists say climate change is making hurricanes stronger, wetter and more damaging. A recent study published in Nature says because they are carrying more moisture, hurricanes are also keeping their strength longer after they make landfall, causing more damage from winds and flooding.”

Congressman-elect Carlos Gimenez and wife Lourdes have tested positive for COVID-19. CONTRIBUTED

C

ongressman-elect Carlos Gimenez and his wife, Lourdes, tested positive for COVID-19 on Nov. 26 after experiencing mild symptoms. The announcement came the afternoon of Nov. 26, and the two are self-isolating, following the advice of medical professionals and CDC guidelines.

The current Miami-Dade mayor, who beat Democrat U.S. Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell in the November election to represent the Keys and Miami-Dade in Washington, D.C., said Lourdes and he are feeling good and “experiencing no symptoms at this time.”

“I will continue attending New Member Orientation virtually and preparing our office to serve the people of Florida’s 26th Congressional District from Westchester to Key West until I can resume my normal schedule,” the congressman said. “I am extremely grateful for all of the incredible health care workers who are tirelessly dedicated to their patients.”

EDUCATION

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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THE TIME FOR COLLEGE EXTENDS EDUCATION IS NOW TUITION DEADLINE SCHOOL OFFICIALS UNDERSTAND STUDENTS’ FINANCIAL STRESS

NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN AWARDS CONNIE GILBERT SCHOLARSHIPS

Savanna Artigue is a second-year student at Florida A&M in Tallahassee. She received a $2,000 scholarship from the Key West NOW chapter.

The College of the Florida Keys has extended its tuition payment deadline from Dec. 1 to Jan. 4, allowing financially stressed students to wait until after the holidays to finalize tuition payments. CONTRIBUTED

R

ecognizing the serious financial challenges facing many students, The College of the Florida Keys has extended its deadline for spring tuition and fees from Dec. 1 to Jan. 4.

The additional time will allow students time to formalize their academic plans by registering for spring classes without having to pay their bill until after the holidays. Applications to begin classes in the spring semester are due on Dec. 7 and classes begin Jan. 4.

In addition to the tuition deadline extension, CFK offers multiple resources and services to help students pay for school, including financial aid, interestfree payment plans, scholarships, and military and veteran assistance programs. Information about these resources is available in the “Paying for

College” section prominently displayed in the main menu of the College’s website at CFK. edu.

Prospective students can receive personal assistance through the application process as well as a $100 Kick-Starter Scholarship by participating in a “Fast Track to Spring” virtual meeting, scheduled through Friday, Dec. 4.

Appointments can be reserved through the College’s website at www.cfk.edu/ fast-track-to-spring/ and are available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

For more information about the opportunities available at CFK, visit cfk.edu or contact Marissa Owens at recruiter@cfk.edu or call 305809-3207.

— Contributed

Emilia Cardenas received a $2,000 scholarship from the Key West chapter of the National Organization for Women. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing at the College of the Florida Keys. CONTRIBUTED

T

he Key West Chapter of the National Organization for Women recently announced the two 2020 recipients of the Connie Gilbert Scholarship Awards. The awards are open to any Monroe County resident who identifies as female and is seeking to further their education or professional career. Each of this year’s recipients received $2,000.

Emelia (Emi) Cardenas is a lifelong resident of Key West and a graduate of Key West High School.

She earned her associate’s degree in nursing in August at the College of the Florida Keys and is now working on her bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is currently working at Lower Keys Medical Center.

Her family has always encouraged her and her siblings to pursue their education. When not working and studying, Cardenas is involved in The Book Club, Student Government Association and assisting students as a student ambassador at CFK.

Savanna Artigue is also a lifelong resident of the Florida Keys who is a second-year student at Florida A&M in Tallahassee studying for a degree in agronomy. While attending Key West High School, Savanna participated in the Special Olympics, both locally and at the state level. Volunteering at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden and a local organic fruit nursery nurtured her interest in plants and the outdoors.

KWNOW established the scholarship awards to celebrate the legacy of Connie Gilbert, former KWNOW president and long-time human rights activist. In addition to serving as a past president of KWNOW, Gilbert was the co-founder of many Key West organizations including ACLU, League of Women Voters and the Keys Coalition Against Child Sex Trafficking.

Key West NOW was founded in 1972 and follows the purposes established by NOW in 1966: to take action through grassroots activism, to promote feminist ideals, lead societal change, eliminate discrimination and achieve and protect the equal rights of all women and girls, socially, politically and economically.

Contact kwnowinfo@gmail or president Darlene Lovell Thomas at darlenekw@aol.com for information on meetings and future scholarship and fundraising opportunities.

— Contributed

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COOL STUFF

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

Mainstreaming

A look at what they're doing on the mainland

NOW TRENDING

LISTEN | CYR A mostly-reunited Smashing Pumpkins strengthens their creative confidence in their newly-released album. According to Apple Music, frontman Billy Corgan bucks the expectation that having drummer Jimmy Chamberlin and guitarist James Iha back long-term means a return to pummeling riffs and intricate art rock. Instead, the band makes a sharp pivot toward goth-pop.

Overall, it’s an adventurous, musically generous offering that captures the musicians at their most vital when they take risks.

The Keys Weekly took a very thorough poll of one staff member to determine the best holiday movies of all time. The results are provocative not only for the variety, but also the monolithic nature of the choices. Please direct all hate mail to Hans Gruber.

CHRISTMAS MOVIES OF ALL TIME

READ | THE GOOD SHEPHERD You might not be able to put this 1955 novel by C.S. Forester down. You’ll keep waiting for a break in the action. Good luck with that. A convoy of ships is being escorted to Europe across the submarine-infested waters of the north Atlantic during World War II, under the command of an officer who is all too conscious of the middling rating he has received for his capabilities. Sound familiar? Tom Hanks starred in the movie version, “The Greyhound.”

10. Die Hard 9. Die Hard 8. Die Hard 7. Die Hard 6. Die Hard 5. Die Hard 4. Die Hard 3. Die Hard 2. Die Hard 1. Die Hard

WATCH | THE HOLIDAY MOVIES THAT MADE US Unwrap the real stories behind iconic Christmas blockbusters, including “Elf” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” thanks to insider interviews and behind-the-scenes peeks. And yes, you’ll see Will Ferrell dancing on a table. Be prepared for some funny and informative takes on the films profiled in Season 2, which was released on Netflix on Dec. 1. Season 1, released in November 2019, featured all-time favorites like “Die Hard” and “Home Alone.” On Netflix.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

OPEN MIC

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HEADLINER SHOWS

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WRAP UP THE YEAR ON A HOLIDAY NOTE

ALL KEY WEST AND STOCK ISLAND BUSINESSES ELIGIBLE

$5,000 IN CASH PRIZES!

HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST

PRESENTED BY THE KEY WEST CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ENTRY RULES AND DATES • December 4 - December 15: Applicants register to enter • Entries may be submitted, with photos, to keywestchamber.org • Exterior only • Non-Chamber members welcome VOTING RULES AND DATES • December 16 - December 24, 5:00 pm: General public voting period • Voters limited to one vote per email registration • Voters will decide BEST OVERALL BUSINESS ($2000 prize) • Key West Chamber panel will decide winners in four additional categories • Winners announced Tuesday, December 29

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES 1. THE GEORGE BAILEY: Best Overall Decor ($2000) 2. THE RALPHIE PARKER: Best Kid Friendly Decor ($1000) 3. THE CLARK W. GRISWOLD: Most Over the Top & Outlandish Decor ($1000) 4. THE BAD SANTA: Most “out-of-the-box” Non-Traditional Decor ($800) 5. THE CHARLIE BROWN: Most Adorable Attempt ($200 and a Fruit Cake)

TO ENTER & MORE INFO VISIT KEYWESTCHAMBER.ORG

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM OUR FAMILIES TO YOURS! WARMLY, THE TEAM AT DR. GUZMAN’S OFFICE

Located at 2758 N. Roosevelt Blvd. (in the Overseas Market) • Key West, FL 33040 Phone 305.294.9914 • Fax 305.295.9691 • doc@docguzman.com • www.docguzman.com

SEND A SMILE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON TAKE TIME TO BE KIND! EVERY TUESDAY IN DECEMBER, BRING AT LEAST 2 CANS OF FOOD FOR DONATION & RECEIVE A

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ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK SPICY SHRIMP APPETIZER FOR YOUR TABLE!

All canned good items will benefit local families of Monroe County via the S.O.S. Foundation.

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d o o f a e S h s e r F ily! a D d e r e v i l e D ! y a d y r e v E -7pm m p 3 r u o H Happy Taco Tuesday & Thursday Two Tacos $6

Live Music Featuring:

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Saturday & Sunday

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December 5th & 6th 6pm

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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245 FRONT ST 305.292.4320 OPENTABLE.COM

Please join us for our

first annual sand sculpture christmas tree lighting thursday, december 3, 2020 | 6pm-7:30pm casa marina: sun-sun concert pier A family friendly event where we will present all donations collected from our

for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Keys Donations of new unwrapped toys accepted through Wednesday, December 2, 2020 toys will be presented during the tree lighting event

KEYS PEOPLE

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

HINDSIGHT 2020 LOOKING BEHIND AND AHEAD

T

he coronavirus pandemic brought some of the first cases to the Florida Keys in March and changed our island life in ways no one could have imagined.

A checkpoint kept visitors away and the virus at bay, but that affected jobs, business, income and mental health.

Policies were changed to address the increasing spread. Meetings and fundraisers were moved online, and we all became experts at Zoom, Google Meet and using our webcams as mirrors before “joining” a virtual event.

The Keys reopened to visitors in June and workers returned to jobs in hotels, bars, restaurants and retail stores, and aboard dive, snorkel and fishing boats.

Each week, in our Hindsight 2020 feature, the Key West Weekly will highlight locals’ reflections on a year of unprecedented changes and challenges.

What Netflix or other TV/movie programming did you discover or rediscover during the pandemic?

Mark: Ted Lasso on Apple+: An American football coach goes to England to coach a football (soccer) team. Hilarity ensues. I generally don’t go in for warm-hearted stuff, but this show made me feel better about humanity, which takes some doing.

Nan: I’ve been watching bicycle racing for 25 years (thanks, Mark!) and took up watching Premier League football a few years ago, but this year both have been lifesavers.

Did you have COVID? Mark: Not that I know of.

Nan: Not that I know of.

MARK HEDDEN & NAN KLINGENER Describe your 2020 in 3 words: Mark: (Expletive deleted) Nan: Slow - anxious - surprising What canceled activity or event did you miss the most?

Mark: Poker with my so-called friends. We’ve been playing online, but damn I miss sitting at a table with those people. Even that guy Haven.

Nan: They haven’t even happened yet (as of this writing), but the cancellations of the Holiday Parade and the Literary Seminar are both heartbreakers.

What’s your pandemic pet peeve?

Mark: Loud, amateur epidemiologists.

Nan: People whining about missing things (like, uh, maybe the Holiday Parade and the Literary Seminar) when so many people are suffering the medical and economic impacts of this thing.

What’s one good thing that came out of this period for you?

Mark: Lots of home improvement, I guess.

Nan: Oddly, I feel closer than ever to my colleagues on the mainland — perhaps because while I’ve always been a remote worker, now we’re all in the same boat.

Describe your hopes for 2021 in 3 words: Mark: Less (Expletive deleted) Nan: Kind, thoughtful renaissance

LARRY BLACKBURN Describe your 2020 in 3 words: Where’s the Charmin??!!??!!

What canceled activity or event did you miss the most? Key West Pride.

CAPTAIN CARLA BELLENGER Describe your 2020 in 3 words: Disheartening. Challenging. Loss.

What canceled activity or event did you miss the most? The locals’ walking parade What Netflix or other TV/movie programming did you discover or rediscover? “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.”

Did you have COVID? No. What’s your pandemic pet peeve? My biggest pandemic pet peeve is the increasing animosity and division of our Florida Keys community during this COVID-19 crisis.

What’s one good thing that came out of this period for you?

The highlight of my 2020 was being able to spend unexpected, extra time with my son.

Describe your hopes for 2021 in 3 words: Unifying our country.

What Netflix or other TV/movie programming did you discover or rediscover during the pandemic? “Sons of Anarchy”— again.

It doesn’t get any better than bikers and Shakespeare.

Did you have COVID? Fortunately, no What’s your pandemic pet peeve? Ignorant and inconsiderate people who did not take the virus seriously and refuse to this day to do anything to stop or control the spread. They think the entire thing is a hoax and masks are worthless. Frivolous lawsuits to open the Keys. Money and profit over locals’ safety. Putting the service industry and first responders at risk. Blaming the city and county leaders for everything, when, at the end of the day, it is people who forced them to take the action that they did. No leadership at the state and federal levels.

What’s one good thing that came out of this period for you?

I fell in love with my wife all over again!

Describe your hopes for 2021 in 3 words: Joe Biden Jr.

15

16

WEEKLY INTERVIEW

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

20

REBECCA BERTUCCI www.keysweekly.com

QUESTIONS WITH RAMON RODRIGUEZ

What adversities did you face being an immigrant in New Orleans? How much time and space do you have? The language barrier was the most challenging. Racism and ignorance was the next biggest struggle.

Kids are brutal, man. They will eat you alive coming up. Third was being poor. Not having clothes; having to dress in layers just so the funny-looking Goodwill pants would fit properly. The difficulty of having to learn the new culture and finding people who would have the patience to help you understand.

Dealing with different ethnicities was a new concept. In Cuba we didn’t have the melting pot of backgrounds; everyone was the same.

We were all under the same governmental control.

THE AMERICAN DREAM IS ALL HE EVER WANTED; MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

H

e was beaming, the pride contagious with every word. A Cuban immigrant whose adolescence was decided for him, Ramon Rodriguez finally feels accomplished and at peace, and before his 60th birthday. A young life littered with traumatic, but ultimately blessed, events, led to a quiet life in Cayo Hueso, which is all he ever wanted.

Rodriguez was ripped out of Cuba at age 10, then given up for adoption upon arrival in the U.S. He spoke no English and was living as a ward of the state in a New Orleans boys’ home and attending school in the city’s infamous Lower Ninth Ward until he found his way into the loving arms of his adopted family. Here is a man who knows what it is to fight for — and appreciate — every inch of success toward the basic American Dream.

What is your most endearing quality? Caring and helping people.

What is the one thing you would change about the world if you could? Racism.

As a Cuban immigrant, Ramon Rodriguez values family, education and work ethic above all else.

CONTRIBUTED

Do you have experience with that? Yes. I’ve seen people being discriminated against, and I have been discriminated against as an immigrant. Shockingly, I’ve been discriminated against not only by Americans, but by Cubans, too. The Americans, when they know I’m Cuban; Cubans, because I look ‘gringo.’

How have you moved beyond the racism in your life? I don’t think you really move past it. I think you keep it in the back of your mind and deal with it, but never truly move on from it. I know racism is out there, and I’ve learned to protect myself against it. Like, I know certain situations and how they will pan out, so I mentally prepare myself for how I will handle the moment(s).

In hindsight, are you glad your parents moved you to the U.S. when they did? In my particular situation, as a kid, I would say no because of being split from one of my parents. My life was in Cuba — it was all I knew. But now, as an adult, I can say it was the best decision for me and my siblings.

America has more opportunity. So I guess I would say overall, yes. It was a good decision.

Without getting overly political, what runs through your mind when you look at the political problems we have here, compared to a government like Cuba? Cuba is Communist. You do not have the freedom of speech like you have here. You cannot compare the two governments, but I truly do not believe half of the people here would survive in that system. I don’t think Americans realize how lucky they have it.

What about Key West makes you the happiest? To see people be individuals and be free to do what they want without fear of being judged. It makes me extremely happy to see that freedom.

What is the most beautiful thing in the world? A tight-knit family sticking through thick and thin. To see the love, and see them stay together, no matter what.

Speaking of people doing what they want without judgement, the holidays are here (along with the decorations). We’re just a day away from December at the time of this interview, but since you’re a Catholic, on a scale of 1 to 10 how excited are you for Christmas? 10.

Do you believe in putting up the Christmas decorations before December? No. I think every season should have its time.

WEEKLY INTERVIEW

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

17

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STAY AHEAD OF YOURSELF & YOUR DELIVERIES

Much like the seasons of life.

What would be one thing you would encourage kids to do/ learn that you believe will give them an advantage in adulthood? Besides being educated, I think kids should take initiative to learn basic household chores: Cleaning, laundry, cooking. It will never matter how much money you make; you should always know how to do something yourself. Why waste your hard-earned money paying someone else to do what you can do yourself? Same with changing your car’s oil or tires, basic construction (how to measure and cut a board), and maintain your property.

What advice would you give the older generation? Be patient with the younger generation. Encourage them. Don’t degrade them. I believe it will help keep animosity down and create a safe space for all of us to grow.

If COVID didn’t exist, what is your perfect day, start to finish? On weekdays? Waking up, for starters. Have a cup of coffee with the sunrise, go have a great productive day at work, come home and cook dinner for my wife, then relax with her after. Weekends? Sleep in a little bit, go to breakfast (preferably at Goldman’s), go for a little ride up the Keys, pick up fresh fruits and vegetables, have lunch. Then head back home for dinner and salsa dancing at El Meson de Pepe’s and then have a private night with my woman.

What would you consider your crowning achievement to date?

Definitely raising my son. Teaching him a work ethic and making sure he was educated and had every opportunity to use his gift of intel-

ligence, and making sure he had the tools he needed to succeed.

Seeing his achievements as a lawyer and the man he is as a provider, a father and a husband — he is my crowning achievement.

That was incredibly sweet and heartfelt. Do you have any specific advice you would pass along to him? Advice that, although you were giving it to your son, other people might benefit from hearing it? Treat people as you want to be treated. Look with your heart and not with your eyes. Be an asset in every way you can in this world.

What is something you dreamed of, but were told you could never do/have, then ended up achieving despite the naysayers? Buying my first house on the water. People told me I would never afford it; I would never have that kind of money. It was just outside of New Orleans, and I built it myself from the ground up.

What would you say is the key to your successes? Ignoring negativity and focusing on the positives — glass half full, not empty, perspective.

Who is your favorite person from your life? My mom. No question about that. My adopted mom … it’s just not even a question. Rest her soul.

For the fun of it: what is your guilty pleasure? My love for my birds. I raise canaries. I love raising canaries and watching something grow and evolve. If I had my own pet store or farm … that would be tops.

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WATCH FRIDAY’S LIVE PODCAST ON FACEBOOK AT LOUIE C ROCK. INTERACTIVE WITH YOUR QUESTIONS. Paid public service announcement from Dr. Bruce Boros.

18

KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

BRITT MYERS britt@keysweekly.com

HOLIDAY DECORATING CONTEST OFFERS $5,000 IN PRIZES KEY WEST CHAMBER ENCOURAGES ALL BUSINESSES TO PARTICIPATE

D

o you have a business in Key West or Stock Island?

If so, you are eligible to enter the Key West Chamber of Commerce’s “Wrap Up the Year On a Holiday Note” decorating contest beginning Friday, Dec. 4. Entries for the contest can upload an exterior picture of their decorated business to the chamber’s website from Dec. 4 through Dec.15 — with a chance to win part of $5,000. Businesses need not be chamber members to enter.

“So many businesses, families and tourists have experienced tough times this year and we felt it was a fitting time to encourage businesses to be as festive as possible,” said Key West Chamber board president Suzanne Moore.

“Maybe we can create some light and joy on the island and we can all celebrate and enjoy this holiday season together.”

ENTRY RULESAND DATES • December 4 - December 15: Applicants register to enter • Entries may be submitted, with photos, to keywestchamber.org • Exterior only • Non-Chamber members welcome VOTING RULES AND DATES • December 16 - December 24, 5:00 pm General public voting period • Voters limited to one vote per email registration • Voters will decide BEST OVERALL BUSINESS ($2000 prize) • Key West Chamber panel will decide winners in four additional categories • Winners announced Tuesday, December 29

To enter, businesses must be located in Key West or on Stock Island. The contest does exclude rental and residential properties.

Businesses that wish to participate may do so through the chambers’s website at keywestchamber.org beginning Friday, Dec. 4. From there, a prominent tab will be displayed with easy instructions to register and upload a picture.

Once the entry period ends, voters will be able to select the Best Overall winner, which will receive $2,000 from the Key West Chamber. The voting period runs from Dec. 16 until 5 p.m. on Dec. 24.

In addition, a chamber panel will decide the winners in four other categories to award the remaining $3,000 in prize money.

All entry and voting rules, dates and prizes are below. For more information, visit keywestchamber. org beginning Friday, Dec. 4.

CATEGORIES AND PRIZES 1. THE GEORGE BAILEY: Best Overall Decor ($2000) 2. THE RALPHIE PARKER Best Kid Friendly Decor ($1000) 3. THE CLARK W. GRISWOLD Most Over the Top & Outlandish Decor ($1000) 4. THE BAD SANTA Most “out-of-the-box” Non-Traditional Decor ($800) 5. THE CHARLIE BROWN Most Adorable Attempt ($200 and a Fruit Cake)

HISTORIC HAPPY HOURS

WELCOME ABOARD COAST GUARD CUTTER INGHAM FLOATING MUSEUM

Caribbean heat is only beat with an ice cold Cuba libre. Yansel Flores would know.

The USCGC Ingham is the most decorated ship in the U.S. Coast Guard and is now a floating museum at Key West’s Truman Waterfront. Keys Weekly file photo

A

s the holiday season approaches, Key West’s ship museum, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham, hosts happy hour every Friday and Saturday nights, offers tours, and is also available for private celebrations.

The most decorated ship in Coast Guard history, this nonprofit museum ship is permanently docked at Truman Waterfront.

Happy hour, with a perfect, unobstructed view of sunset, is open from one hour before to one hour after sundown each weekend. Beer, wine and snacks are offered.

Maintained by veterans, tours below decks are offered from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Concierges, show your business card and receive a free tour, now through Dec. 31.

“The deck is large, a perfect place for parties, and is probably the most unique venue in Key West,” executive director Mike Charavell said. “We’re abiding by all CDC distancing guidelines,” he added. “Even at 50 percent capacity, we can still host moderately sized groups easily.”

“The Florida Keys’ citizens have really embraced the ship,” added Charavell. “We want everyone to enjoy this invaluable museum in as many ways as possible.”

Launched in 1936, the ship’s more than 50 years of valiant service made her the only Coast Guard Cutter afloat today to receive

two Presidential Unit Citations for extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy.

She served in World War II and Vietnam and was key in rescuing Cubans involved in the Mariel Boatlift. Because of her rich history, the Ingham has been named “National Memorial to Guardians Killed in Action in World War II and Vietnam.”

Charavell added, “It’s important to support this National Historic Landmark, so the next generations can visit this portrait of the Coast Guard, and U.S. history. Everything that was there when she was decommissioned remains mostly untouched and is a look back in time.”

The Ingham has also been designated recently as the new headquarters of the Conch Republic Navy. This will combine the histories of both the Ingham and the Navy together with the logistical realities of the communication abilities aboard the Ingham, which can provide needed information up and down the Keys.

Those wishing to donate may visit uscgcingham.org/donate. All gifts are tax deductible.

For more information, call Mike at 305-292-5072 or email info@ uscgcingham.org. Donations may also be mailed to USCGC INGHAM MEMORIAL MUSEUM, P. O. Box 186, Key West, Florida 33041.

— Contributed

19

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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20

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

SARA MATTHIS

sara@keysweekly.com

In this Keys Weekly file photo from 2017, crew from Key Largo’s Hanna Katherine load lobster traps on a commercial vessel.

GRANT WILL PAY COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN

FWC ALLOCATES MONEY FOR NEARSHORE CLEANUP

M

onroe County is putting out a $1.43 million bid for a management operation to clear nearshore debris between Marathon and Sugarloaf Key. The cleanup is funded by a state Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) grant to finish cleaning up after Hurricane Irma. The funds are designed to pay commercial fishermen for the work.

It’s similar to a program in which local dive operators were paid to pull hurricane debris out of deep water.

“This is coming out of a larger, $44 million funding pot,” said Celia Hitchens, the county’s senior administrator of marine resources.

The winning bidder will pay commercial fishermen for the work. Whether that’s by the day, or the hour, or the pound is yet to be decided. The bids will be opened in early January 2021, and it’s planned for the work to begin in February with the work complete by the end of June.

Bill Kelly, the CEO of the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association, said the group will be submitting its own bid.

“We have the best ‘dump trucks’ that ever went to sea,” Kelly said, laughing, referencing the large commercial fishing boats capable of transporting debris back to land for proper disposal.

Kelly said hiring commercial fishermen is the right choice.

“Commercial fishermen are stakeholders. They know the marine environment, know the topography and the marine organisms and animals that inhabit this environment,” Kelly said. “We’ve done this kind of work previously. We’re efficient at doing it with zero injuries and zero secondary environmental damage.”

Most likely a small, shallow draft vessel and crew will pluck the debris off the shoreline and transport it to the “mother ship,” or commercial fishing boat.

Kelly is quick to dispel the notion that commercial fishermen are cleaning up after themselves, that the debris is wrecked fishing gear.

“Three years and two months after the storm, any lobster trap has disintegrated, been eaten by marine organisms. The only thing that might be left is trap rope and plastic funnels. What we’ll be picking up is anything from a freezer to a pull toy,” he said.

He said reports indicate that less than 10% of nearshore debris consists of commercial fishing gear.

It’s been a tough year for commercial fishermen.

The Keys exports about 95% of its catch to China. In February, at the height of the coronavirus pandemic in Asia, the number of lobsters shipped dropped to near zero. As demand decreased, so did the price per pound. In recent years, Florida lobster exports to China have ranged from $50 million to $75 million a year.

21

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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ULTIMATE PRIME RIB DINNER SERVES 4 | $200 | Extra person $50 • Slow roasted garlic, rosemary prime rib • Natural jus, horseradish cream • Sour cream, chive mashed potatoes • Creamed green beans with mushroom, parmesan gratin • Three cheese mac and cheese • House baked soft rolls

FLAT BREAD SELECTION • Roasted butternut Squash, walnuts, herbed brie • Prosciutto fig and goat cheese • Braised beef, Caramelized pears, aged blue cheese CHOICE OF 4 HORS D’OEUVRES • Crab cakes, classic remoulade • Bacon wrapped scallops • Mini Stuffed baked potatoes with bacon and boursin • Italian sausage and cream cheese stuffed mushrooms • Raspberry and brie puffs • Spinach and artichoke bites • Chicken corn and smoked gouda empanadas • Wild mushroom and goat cheese tarts • Bacon wrapped goat cheese stuffed dates • Tomato caprese skewers

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SERVES 4 | $140 | Extra person $35

SERVES 6-8 | $30 (PER 1/2 PAN) • Sweet potato grilled corn and chorizo hash • Bacon brussels sprouts with matre’ d butter • Tri colored scalloped potatoes • Roasted root vegetables, with garlic brown butter

• Honey mustard glazed spiral cut ham, ginger pineapple chutney • Sour cream and chive mashed potatoes • Creamed green beans with mushrooms, parmesan gratin • Three cheese mac and cheese • House baked Soft Rolls

LOBSTER MAC AND CHEESE | $60 ROASTED WHOLE TENDERLOIN | $150 CLASSIC PINK SHRIMP COCKTAIL | $150 (50PCS) BAKED BRIE EN CROUTE honey, walnuts, dried cherries and thyme | $30.00 ROASTED COLD SLICED BEEF TENDERLOIN parker house slider buns, horseradish cream | $200

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22

GIFT GUIDE

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

FOR THE

For the next few weeks, the Keys Weekly will feature a local gift guide (plus some irresistible online finds) for the purposes of making the holidays simple and bright. This page is devoted to the person who wants to close 2020 with a leisurely, yet stylish afternoon or evening of entertaining.

5

4 1

2

6 1. A FEW WORDS ON BOOZE… ‘Modern Medicinal Cocktails’ book $37.50; ‘How to Drink’ book $16.95; Tequila Mockingbird kit $9.99. Truth Serum & Hooch decanters $12.99.

BOOKS & BOOKS, Key West.

2. PERMANENTLY TIRED MUG AND SOCKS

The perfect combo for the always tired individual who loves a pair of comfy socks. KEY LARGO FLOWERS & GIFTS, Key Largo. $18.75

3. FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE

A stunning — and functional — conversation piece, this eye-catching wine rack also holds an entire case of wine — 12 bottles. It’s made from tamarind wood and polished to a high shine.

FAST BUCKS AT HOME, Key West. $395

4. GLASS HALF FULL

Keep the coast close with assorted etched wine glasses from. They come in traditional and stemless styles, featuring palm trees, sand dollars and other coastal souvenirs. FAST BUCKS AT HOME, Key West. $9.95 - $12.95

5. GET WILD

Assorted ice buckets and wine bottle coasters feature some of Florida’s favorite wildlife. FAST BUCKS AT HOME, Key West. $129 - $179.

6. UNBREAKABLE GLASSWARE

No glass around the pool, please. Or on the edge of the dining room table above a tile floor. The Keys require a different set of beverage containers made out of unbreakable acrylic.

Goblets, tumblers and wine glasses come in a variety of jeweled tones.

MAROONED IN MARATHON, Marathon. $10 and up.

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7 7. 64-OUNCE OCEAN DRINKTANK

Keeps drinks cold for more than 24 hours and hot for more than 12 hours.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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24

KEY WEST

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

OUT WITH THE OLD YEAR, IN WITH THE NEW MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

KEY WEST BUSINESS GUILD PRESENTS AWARDS, INSTALLS NEW BOARD

1

2 5 MANDY MILES/Keys Weekly 1. Paul Murphy accepts the Key West Business Guild’s Richard Heyman Award on behalf of Sister Season Fund. Heather Carruthers receives the President’s Award for her leadership through the pandemic and Dorian Patton receives the Walt Marlow Award for furthering the guild’s efforts to support the LGBTQ community and local businesses.

T

he Key West Business Guild wrapped up a year that’s been like no other at its Dec. 2 awards luncheon at the Marriott Beachside Hotel.

Mayor Teri Johnston swore in the 2021 board members: Alan Beaubien, Larry Blackburn, Chuck Licis-Masson, Jacqueline Luhta, Patti McLauchlin, Misha McRae, Paul Murphy, Dan Skahen and Jenn Stefanacci-Portier.

Licis-Masson, board president, reviewed the guild’s activities throughout the past year, “working tirelessly with member and nonmember businesses as the Florida Keys worked to reopen following the shutdown,” he said.

With website and other digital upgrades and a commitment to supporting Key West businesses and the LGBTQ community in Key West, Licis-Masson assured the members and supporters that the guild is financially stable with a robust membership roster.

“We’ll get through this together,” he said before presenting the guild’s three annual awards to Sister Season Fund, Dorian Patton and Heather Carruthers.

— Weekly staff report

2. Key West Mayor Teri Johnston, far right, swears in members of the Key West Business Guild’s new board.

3. Board president Chuck Licis-Masson, left, and past president Alan Beaubien prepare for the organization’s 2020 awards luncheon at the Marriott Beachside Hotel on Dec. 2.

3

4. Board members Dan Skahen and Paul Murphy smile behind their masks at the Dec. 2 luncheon.

4

5. Misha McRae, left, and Chuck Licis-Masson prepare for the Dec. 2 swearing-in of the guild’s 2021 board members.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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Chef Kevin Spencer is proud to introduce our new small plates menu! Brunch now includes all you can eat small plates and bottomless mimosas, bloody marys and screwdrivers. $65 per person.

Kids’ a la carte menu is also available.

Plus a Special

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Scan this code with your phone for menus

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Must be 21 or older to order and consume alcohol. Please consume responsibly.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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HOLIDAYS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

WE’RE TAKING NOMINATIONS

Keys Christmas Characters W e all know that one person who takes Christmas super, super SERIOUSLY. Maybe they have more holiday lights in their personal possession than the average Home Depot, or they own a special, professional-grade Santa beard?

The Keys Weekly needs your help to single these folks out. We are looking for nominations in each category.

We need more than a name, though; we need to know why your neighbor reminds you of, say, Buddy the Elf. Is he tall? Goofy? Have an unrequited crush?

The results will be published in our Christmas issue on Dec. 24.

Submissions are due by Monday, Dec. 18. Please email mandy@keysweekly.com (for Key West nominations), sara@keysweekly. com (for Middle Keys and Lower Keys nominations), and jim@keysweekly.com (for Upper Keys submissions). Please include the person’s full name, why you are nominating him or her, and where this person lives in the Keys. By the way, all nominations are gender-neutral; i.e., the fanatic holiday decorator doesn’t have to be a woman to qualify for the Martha Stewart award.

— Weekly staff report

GRINCH Gruff but lovable He or she may not take a liking to Christmas, the noises of the holiday season and all the cheer, but they do like to take part in the festivities, whether it be downing cookies and milk, snatching presents away from loved ones and messing up all the Christmas mail. While they may be mean-tempered, their heart has the ability to grow during a moment of crisis. And they have that superhuman strength to stop an entire sleigh loaded with presents from going over the cliff.

BUDDY THE ELF Pure love and innocence Our Keys version of Buddy the Elf is super friendly and slightly goofy. He or she is willing to put maple syrup on anything and defend a small friend in an epic snowball fight (or whatever the Keys equivalent of that is). Most importantly, he or she has an unshakeable faith in Santa and the Christmas spirit.

CLARK GRISWOLD Mr. Do It All The patriarch of the family who plans to have a great Christmas with family. He is often known to go into huge tempers when his family gets on his nerves, but he’s also ambitious. He’s also the one to get the largest Christmas tree and cover the exterior with 25,000 twinkling lights that could lead to a neighborhood power outage.

KEVIN McCALLISTER Adventurous and crafty Mistakenly separated from his family twice, he was forced to defend himself from bumbling burglars. The ideal Kevin McCallister candidate can hold their own alone and create a mighty devilish plan to get at his foes or family. With a love for cheese pizza, they also know how to use coupons while grocery shopping and live large for a moment, even if their dad’s credit card account can’t accommodate it.

HOLLY McCLANE The Fixer The holidays often come with elaborate, intricate plans that require precise timing or the whole dang thing falls apart. Which they will. In that case, you need Holly McClane (“Die Hard,” and, yes, it is a Christmas movie) in your corner. She’s cool under pressure, has good communication skills and isn’t above getting her hands dirty if the occasion calls for it.

MARTHA STEWART Super Decorator Okay, this isn’t really a movie character, but lord knows Martha Stewart has done enough cameos. The person nominated for this award is an overthe-top Christmas decorator — we’re talking six storage bins or more of holiday baubles, blow ups, ornaments and light shows. He or she owns Christmas plates, Christmas hand towels and would rather die than use a bed sheet as a tree skirt. Go! RUDOLF THE RED-NOSED REINDEER Party Guide If Rudolf were a person, living in the Keys, he or she would be the ultimate party guide of the holiday season. He or she has mapped out a schedule of holiday boat parades, parties with free champagne, and is the type of person who can waltz into a cookie-making party, make themselves at home and entertain the bakers. Extra points if they have solid connections with local law enforcement in case things get a little rowdy and can lead the party safely home with his or her “nose so bright.”

WILDLIFE

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

1

40 ‘COLD-STUNNED’ TURTLES WARMING UP AT TURTLE HOSPITAL F

orty critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles arrived in the subtropical Florida Keys on Nov. 28 to warm up and receive treatment after suffering “cold stunning” in the waters off Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Found stranded on beaches as a result of the condition, the juvenile turtles were rescued and subsequently flown from New England to Florida Keys Marathon Airport.

“Hundreds of turtles are washing up on the beach,” said Turtle Hospital manager Bette Zirkelbach. “More than the capacity that the aquariums up there can take care of, so they are being flown to the Turtle Hospital to warm up and have care for these critical animals.”

The effort to fly the turtles to the Keys was made possible by a group of private pilots, dubbed “Turtles Fly Too,” who donated their aircraft, fuel and time. The reptiles were transported in sturdy, towel-lined banana boxes.

“Cold stunning” is a hypothermic reaction that occurs when sea turtles are exposed to

cold water for a prolonged time, said Zirkelbach, adding that it typically causes them to stop eating and swimming.

Zirkelbach said the most critically ill turtles will need additional testing to discover whether they have pneumonia, infections or other ailments. Treatment will be determined accordingly, as will the length of the rehabilitation. “They could be at the Turtle Hospital anywhere from 30 days to a year’s time, depending on their condition when they arrived here,” she said. “Once we warm them up, they’re going to go to another part of Florida to be returned to the ocean and that’s our goal with these 40 turtles. We’re hoping, flippers crossed, that they all go back to sea,” she said.

Kemp’s ridley sea turtles are the most endangered of turtle species, Zirkelbach said.

Approximately two dozen other “coldstunned” turtles flown from New England over the weekend are to be rehabilitated at marine centers throughout Florida.

— Contributed

2

3 1. Staff at the Turtle Hospital examine 40 cold-stunned Kemp’s ridley sea turtles that arrived at the hospital on Nov. 28 in Marathon. The turtles were rescued from beaches in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. BOB CARE/ Florida Keys News Bureau 2. A sea turtle swims in a child’s pool after arriving at the Turtle Hospital.

3. Olivia Carlile, a staff member at the Turtle Hospital, examines one of the “cold stunned” turtles. It’s a hypothermic reaction that occurs when sea turtles are exposed to cold water for a prolonged time.

29

30

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

FAUSTO'S CHRISTMAS MENU SERVES 8-10 PEOPLE

TURKEY DINNER

10-12 lb Oven Roasted Plainville All-Natural Turkey 1/2 pan Mashed Potatoes 1 qt. Turkey Gravy 1/2 pan Green Bean Amandine 1/2 pan Sweet Potato Casserole 1 pint Cranberry Orange Relish 1/2 pan Traditional Bread Stuffing $149.99 + tax Turkey (only) $79.99 Whole Spiral Ham $6.99 per pound

CUBAN PORK DINNER SERVES 6-8 PEOPLE 1/4 pan Cuban Pork 1/4 pan Yellow Rice 1/4 pan Black Beans 1/4 pan Plantains Cuban bread $59.99 + tax

SERVES 8-10 PEOPLE 1/2 pan Cuban Pork 1/2 pan Yellow Rice 1/2 pan Black Beans 1/2 pan Plantains Cuban bread $99.99 + tax

BURN PLANNED FOR BIG PINE

Controlled fire will help Key Deer Refuge

T

he U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans to conduct a prescribed burn within the National Key Deer Refuge (Burn Unit 2) on Big Pine Key on Thursday, Dec. 3 if weather conditions permit.

Prescribed burns in the Florida Keys refuges are implemented by a highly qualified and trained staff of interagency professional fire specialists. This activity creates a defensible space between refuge lands and private property to prevent or reduce the threat of wildfires.

Prescribed burns reduce excessive build-up of natural fire fuel, reducing the chance of unwanted severe wildfires.

Restoration and maintenance of the fire-dependent pine rockland habitat is essential for a healthy ecosystem. Prescribed burns are important for the continued survival of local species such as the federally endangered Key deer, the Bartram’s hairstreak butterfly and the butterfly’s host plant, pineland croton, which has evolved to be dependent upon fire. Mechanized methods have also been used to strengthen fire breaks, as well as to mimic fire and restore pineland croton habitat in areas that are too overgrown or too close to private property to safely conduct prescribed fire activities.

Community updates, up to and including when actual prescribed burn dates are proposed and when a burn actually occurs, will be announced on the Key Deer Refuge’s Facebook page and via roadside advisory signs. Visitors and residents can find maps of proposed prescribed burn unit 2 at www.fws.gov/nationalkeydeer/. More information is available from Brian Pippin at 931-260-3350.

— Contributed

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Weather permitting, a prescribed burn will take place on the shaded area of the map on Big Pine Key. CONTRIBUTED

31

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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32

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020 MANDY MILES

mandy@keysweekly.com

S

elfies are here to stay; everyone wants that perfect family portrait and how the hell do you get a good smartphone photo of nighttime Christmas lights or the sparkling family tree?

3 HOLIDAY PHOTO TIPS FROM KEY WEST PHOTOGRAPHER MARK HEDDEN “The great Robert Capa once said, ‘If your pictures aren't good enough, you aren't close enough.’ Of course, Capa was a famous war photographer and he was talking about fearlessly leaping into action while bullets were flying overhead, but the principle applies for holiday photos, too. Worry more about your subject (the foreground) than the background.

“On-phone camera flash: The big lie. Never use the flash on your phone – unless you’re going for that caught-onthe-ATM-security-camera look. No one and no thing looks good lit by the flash on your phone. If you need more light, drag a floor lamp closer to your subject.

Use an extension cord. Save yourself the emotional turmoil of a horrible photo.

“If you’re trying to take a holiday pet photo, you have to be quick. There are some great canine and feline models out there who understand what their job is, but they probably don’t live in your house. They’re going to knock the antlers off their head or move out of the carefully crafted lighting scenario in about two seconds. It really helps to have at least two people – one pet wrangler, and one photographer. Pro tip: If you’re trying to get a dog to look at the camera, hold a dog bone right above it. They may be in it for the snack, but there's a chance it will look like they are staring adoringly at the lens.”

The Keys Weekly asked local pros for some tips for better holiday photos this season. We thank them for sharing their expertise with us mere mortals….

2 HOLIDAY TIPS FROM MARATHON PHOTOGRAPHER BARRY GAUKEL “If you’re taking a photo of a big group of people, use the ‘four second’ rule. Explain to the group that they are going to close their eyes and on the count of three open them, and on the count of four the camera will snap. That way, everyone is photographed with their eyes open, and looking at the camera. Also, with a large group of people, it’s helpful to have a liaison — that one person who knows everyone in the group and can organize them for the camera. It’s like herding cats, sometimes.

“Posed photos are great, but I also like to take candid photos as well. The best shots are the candid ones, especially with kids and older folks who tend to force a smile that doesn’t look good. A photo of a kid with great-grandma, and they are having some type of interaction, those are priceless ones and everyone wants a copy.”

3 TIPS FROM UPPER KEYS PHOTOGRAPHER DAVID GROSS “When’s the best time to shoot? Dusk. Before it gets completely dark. Start your adventure a little before sunset.

The sharpest images will be achieved using a tripod. If you do not want to use a tripod, try to stabilize your arm.

“Night mode is the key to great shots at night. For Android: Activate the camera. Scroll to “More” and select. Night mode is on the menu of options. For iPhone: Tap the arrow at the middle-top of the screen after you turn on the camera. At the bottom of the screen are some options. The halfmoon is the one you want. Tap it. The word “night” will appear at the lower right side. Night mode automatically turns on when the camera detects a low-light environment. The night mode icon at the top of the display turns yellow when the feature is active. Depending on how dark the scene is, your iPhone might take a night mode photo quickly, or it might take several seconds. You can also adjust your exposure setting.

Make sure that the flash is turned OFF. You are now ready to take some pictures. It’s OK to experiment. Get close. Move back. Shoot across the highway as cars are passing by.”

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

33

‘CUSTOM’ CHRISTMAS GIFTS I GOT TESTED Why, how and other details of a COVID-19 exam

L

et’s call it a growing unease.

After an outdoor Thanksgiving at my house with family and friends who haven’t been a regular part of my quarantine bubble since March, I planned to revert to working from home for a few days.

To be clear, I don’t have any symptoms. I can still taste and smell and I’m not coughing and I don’t have a fever.

But I have been affected by the reports of the new swell of coronavirus cases in Monroe County and around the nation. I haven’t felt this unsettled since the beginning of March, when Italy was getting clobbered by a new and scary disease.

So, better safe than sorry.

When the Keys Weekly published a story about the Curative test for COVID-19 last week, it was a sure sign for me to get tested. I’m a fan of the cotton swab and saliva test. I’m not a fan of the nasopharyngeal test, or “brain poke,” as some like to call it. My impulse control is low anyway, and I wasn’t sure if I would react rationally to being skewered.

After one false start — I couldn’t make an online reservation at the previously announced location on Big Pine because testing moved to Founders Park in the Upper Keys — I was all set to go.

The setup at the park is a parked sprinter van. It’s been modified with a window, a speaker and a slot. I approached the van and held my phone in the air so the invisible lab attendants could read my reservation number through the window and verified my birth date. Then a plastic kit came through a slot into my waiting hands.

Attendants instructed me to step to the back of the van and gave me spoken instructions. Take the swab out of the plastic bag, don’t let it touch anything. Cough three times to bring up any virus in the lungs. Then swish that swab all over – cheeks, between the gums, over the tongue, under the tongue, roof of the mouth. Open

the vial, put in the swab, close the vial and shake three times. Put the vial back in the bag and step to the other side of the van to put the plastic bag through a slot.

SARA It probably took MATTHIS longer to read this thinks commuthan it did to take nity journalism the COVID-19 test. is important, but And, as promised it not serious; likes was fast and free. weird and wonNo one came near derful children (she has two). me. I didn’t go near Occasionally she anyone. They say tortures herself the results will be with sprint-disavailable one to tance triathlons, but only if she has two days after the a good chance of lab gets it. (In Keys beating her sister. speak, that means like two to three days, right?) I will be notified via text and email.

I don’t think I have coronavirus … but I don’t know that. For many people the disease barely registers, but for some it’s very dangerous, if not fatal.

I’ve made it this far in the pandemic through common sense and good luck.

But the whole experience had me pondering the notion of how well Americans follow directions. It goes beyond directives to wear a mask in a grocery store. For example, takers of the Curative test shouldn’t smoke, eat or drink for 20 minutes before the exam. I know this because I’m a nerd and actually watched the video that came with my reservation confirmation. The lady in the car next to me did not. She calmly sipped her coffee while waiting for her turn to be tested.

I would love to climb up on my high horse here, but I forgot to cough. The attendant had to remind me. We’re fallible, either because we’re distracted or ignorant.

Use common sense, be lucky, follow directions and trust your instincts.

Be safe, everyone.

To make an online reservation for a Curative test, visit www.curative.com.

Testing is available through Monday, Dec. 14 at Founders Park.

COMMEMORATIVE BRICKS SUPPORT KEY WEST LANDMARK

Key West Art & Historical Society membership coordinator Kim Livingston holds an example of a personalized commemorative brick, of which a limited number are available. CONTRIBUTED

J

ust in time for the holidays, Key West Art & Historical Society has announced it will be adding a limited number of personalized commemorative bricks along the southeast walkway adjacent to the Custom House Museum, and the bricks are available for order now.

Personalized bricks ensure that you, your business, a friend or a pet go down in history while supporting the ongoing costs of keeping the Custom House building a beacon of historic preservation.

At 129 years old, the Keys landmark looks good for her age. However, it’s not without effort. The building was once near-derelict, boarded up and left to sit untouched in the salt air and sun for over two decades, returning to its former Richardsonian Romanesque glory only after a monumental nine-year, $9 million renovation.

Opened to the public in 1891, the iconic red brick building housed the Collector of Customs, Postal Service, Federal Courthouse and Lighthouse 7th District Office, and served as a maritime touchstone for Key West, at the time the richest U.S. city per capita. In 1932, it became the communications operations and administrative offices for the U.S. Navy. After it was purchased by Florida’s Land Acquisition Advisory Council in

Key West’s iconic Custom House overlooks the city’s harbor. Commemorative bricks are being offered for sale to support the landmark building.

1992, it was leased to the Key West Art & Historical Society for use as a museum.

A minimum $100 donation purchases one commemorative brick which accommodates up to three lines of wording. Bricks can also be embellished with a selection of decorative symbols for an additional $25.

For more information or to purchase a brick, contact Key West Art & Historical Society membership coordinator Kim Livingston at 305-295-6616, ext. 106, email her at klivingston@kwahs.org; visit www. kwahs.org and click on the “Join & Support” button; or visit any one of the KWAHS museum stores during business hours and fill out an order form. Key West Art & Historical Society is a registered nonprofit organization and contributions may be tax deductible.

— Contributed

34

KEYS SPORTS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

IN PLAY YES, FOOTBALL IS FOR GIRLS

T

he Key West Women and Girls Flag Football League is underway. Entering its 21st year, the league has 200 girls learning to play and enjoy a game the whole family watches on the weekend — but in a new way.

“Playing flag football, we create our own style with a completely different flavor,” said longtime coach and league organizer Diane Beruldsen. “We don’t prioritize winning, rather understanding her position on the field to make the best choices. It’s about building leaders and caring for one another.

We don’t focus on the score.”

Marathon flag football league mom Allison Sayer says, “My daughter is obsessed with the game.”

On Thanksgiving weekend, Sarah Fuller made history by being the first female to play in a major conference football game for Vanderbilt University as kicker.

“It’s just so exciting,” Fuller told ESPN after the game. “The fact that I can represent the little girls out there who want to do this or thought about playing football or any sport really. And (I hope) it encourages them to be able to step out and do something big like this.”

The Keys league has 200 players spread across 10 teams in two divisions — girls (ages 9 to 11, though they take players as young as 7) and junior (ages 12 to 15). Girls 16 and older are invited to play in the local women’s league.

It’s not too late to join, for mothers or daughters.

“We encourage moms to coach, so their daughters can see their mothers in leadership positions,” said Beruldsen.

Once-a-week practices are spread throughout the week. Pictured is a scrimmage game played over the Thanksgiving weekend. The program is free, courtesy of businesses that sponsor teams. The season culminates in mid-January with the Kelly McGillis Classic Flag Football Tournament.

For more about the league, or to join (it’s not too late as a player or a coach), call 305-896-8678.

— Weekly staff report

MIGUEL RIOSECO/Contributed

35

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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COMMUNITY NEWS

: g n i r u t ow Fea

N

(The Local Butcher items are not applicable towards the Free Birthday Entrée Offer)

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

KEYS RESIDENT RELEASES NOVEL ON CONFEDERATE TREASURY MYSTERY

A

new novel by Civil War historian and North Key Largo resident Michael Kenneth Smith is delving into the Confederacy’s hidden caches of gold entrusted to Jefferson Davis, which were lost or stolen after the Civil War. On April 2, 1865, General Robert E. Lee informed his commander in chief, Jefferson Davis, that troops in Northern Virginia could no longer protect Richmond.

The president of the Confederacy, being advised to evacuate the capital, fled to Danville, Virginia. After Lee’s surrender on April 9, Davis continued into the South where he was eventually captured by Union troops.

For 155 years, tensions between the former Confederate and Yankee states have persisted. And so has the legend of the Confederate treasury — hidden caches of gold entrusted to Davis that were lost or stolen after the Civil War. Smith creates a richly layered story surrounding this fabled treasure in his latest novel, “In The Shadow of Gold: A Tale of the Confederate Treasure.” Meet Yancey Arvindale. Pressured into serving with the Confederate Navy by his domineering father, the seasickprone young man is relieved to be reassigned to the Danville Railroad

A Tale of the Confederate Treasure” was released this month by Civil War historian and North Key Largo resident Michael Kenneth Smith.

CONTRIBUTED

supply train at the dawn of April 1865. His duties include loading and guarding heavy boxes, some of which are marked Richmond Bank of the South.

A new novel With a bit

by Civil War of snooping, historian and he learns the North Key Largo contents: “hard resident Michael Kenneth Smith is assets” being delving into the delivered to Confederacy’s Jefferson Davis hidden caches of for safekeeping. gold entrusted to Digging further Jefferson Davis, by sneaking which were lost through loose or stolen after the floorboards, Civil War. Yancey discovers more boxes filled with gold coins. When the reality of Confederate defeat hits, he starts to ponder: If the Confederacy no longer exists, whom does the Confederate treasury belong to?

After a lifetime of being discounted and bullied by his older brothers and father, Yancey seizes the opportunity to do something to prove his value as a man — and secure his future independence. At each stop along the train’s route, he slips out and buries a box of gold. When Yancey is caught in the act, he lands in jail and then nearly loses his life to a brutal beating. He is saved by the kindness of strangers — a camp of runaway slaves grappling with their newfound status as free Americans.

While recovering, Yancey finds a larger purpose for his wealth — helping others in need, especially escaped Black slaves — plus something unexpected and precious: true love.

The novel can be purchased on Amazon.

— Contributed

ENVIRONMENT

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

REVITALIZING THE REEF

A $5 million grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and NOAA will kickstart massive reef restoration efforts at Eastern Dry Rocks, a reef off Key West and one of seven iconic reefs located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

The money, awarded to the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, will allow local partners Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium and Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) to work with NOAA’s Office of Habitat Conservation and the Sanctuary to undertake unprecedented ecosystem-scale reef restoration.

“One of the most vital ecosystems in the world are coral reefs, the rainforests of the sea,” said Mote President & CEO Dr. Michael P. Crosby. “Florida’s coral reef not only provides the foundation for immense biodiversity, critical ecosystem services and Mother Nature’s shoreline protection for our communities, but also supports over 70,000 jobs in the Florida Keys.”

He added, “Unfortunately, this vital ecosystem is slipping into functional extinction before our eyes.” This is where the groundbreaking project hopes to create real change for the reef.

Restoration will occur in several stages: professional divers and community stewards will help clear nuisance species and debris to prepare and maintain the restoration site for new corals. More than 60,000 staghorn and elkhorn corals will be outplanted and the partners will monitor the success of the project and the benefits to the coastal ecosystem.

The hope is that the comprehensive project will strengthen coastal resilience, revitalize critical fish and wildlife habitat and engage the community as part of NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs.

The Iconic Reefs initiative plans to restore nearly 3 million square feet (roughly 52 football fields) of the Florida Reef Tract and is one of the largest strategies ever proposed for coral restoration.

When NOAA announced its ambitious restoration plan in December 2019, proposed restoration actions

$5 million grant for coral restoration

totaled almost $100 million. Sanctuary Superintendent Sarah Fangman said that at the time, no one had yet written a check but that agencies and officials were working to bring resources. With the new grant, concrete funding is in place to kickstart real work to restore the reefs.

"The iconic reefs of the Florida Keys, including Eastern Dry Rocks, are the basis for thriving ecosystems underwater and the critical tourism economy on dry land. But they remain under severe threat,” said Allison Alexander, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation vice president. “This project will transform how we address coral reef degradation and engage communities in stewarding our ocean.”

Each local partner will leverage its expertise to maximize results.

Crosby noted that Mote’s role as a core partner in Mission Iconic Reefs is to integrate the significant knowledge and expertise of innovative resilient restoration science with the important assets of its partners. CRF will provide over 35,000 corals for the effort.

“With this funding, as part of the ‘Mission: Iconic Reefs’ initiative, Coral Restoration Foundation will be able to contribute at least 15,000 staghorn and 20,000 elkhorn corals to this collaborative restoration effort at Eastern Dry Rocks off Key West,” said Jessica Levy, CRF restoration program man-

ager. “This will be our biggest restoration push in the Lower Keys, and an incredible boost to the biodiversity of the area.”

In 2019, the Foundation released a study showing that economic activity generated in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is responsible for contributing $4.4 billion and 43,000 jobs across Florida.

Coral reefs are also effective in mitigating coastal hazard risks and increasing coastal resilience. They provide substantial protection against coastal storms and storm surges by reducing wave energy by an average of 97 percent, the National Marine Sanctuaries Foundation found. The structural complexity of coral reefs plays a crucial role in dissipating wave energy and protecting coastlines. With its proximity to Key West, the most populous community in Monroe County, the reef at Eastern Dry Rocks provides a natural defense from coastal storms and storm surges.

“This grant signals a turning point for reef restoration; it is a hugely significant contribution to the ‘Mission: Iconic Reefs’ effort,” said CRF CEO Scott Winters. “We see this as the beginning of an era of focused cooperation around reef restoration. And it is happening not a moment too soon.”

An ocean-based coral nursery operated by the Coral Restoration Foundation in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary grows species like staghorn coral for transplanting back to local reefs. CORAL RESTORATION FOUNDATION/Contributed

39

40

KEYS PEOPLE

L

ast week, 11-year-old Sofia Figueredo stood at a table in her family’s kitchen, harvesting the honey from the beehives on their Islamorada property. Her mother, Elizabeth Jolin, was by her side, ready to help.

With a hot knife, Sofia gingerly scraped honey and wax from a wooden frame taken from a hive, a procedure known as “uncapping.” The golden syrupy mixture plopped into a pan below the frame, soon to be put into an extractor to separate the honey from the wax with centrifugal force.

Elizabeth looked at their visitor with a smile, her eyes wide. “You’ve got to try this. It’s amazing,” she said, pointing at the freshly harvested honey in the pan. She licked her finger.

“I swear, whenever we do this, I want to make biscuits.”

Scooping up the sticky fluid with fingers for a taste, the honey was sweet, buttery, woodsy and vanilla-y, and it was still warm from the sun.

It was so outrageously delicious, we gasped.

“Isn’t it good?” Elizabeth asked rhetorically.

“Look, hold this,” Sofia said, excitedly. She lifted a frame from the extractor, showing the difference in weight between a frame with honey on it and without it. “See how heavy it is?”

Yes, we do. And consider us hooked. Can we get a beehive too?

That’s how infectious Sofia’s enthusiasm for beekeeping is: It’s entirely possible that if you let her show you how to harvest honey, you’ll get bit by her bug. Or perhaps, “stung” is a better word.

In fact, Sofia is so into her hobby that it has become a modestly profitable side hustle, with money raised

Elizabeth Jolin tends to a hive on her Islamorada property. CHARLOTTE TWINE/ Keys Weekly

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

BEEWITCHED

Local girl harvests honey for college fund, gets true buzz from learning CHARLOTTE TWINE www.keysweekly.com

from her honey products going into a college fund.

About four years ago, Elizabeth was the first one in the family who became interested in getting a hive, after they visited an 80-year-old beekeeper friend in Washington, D.C. “We thought, ‘If she can do it, we can do it,’” she said with a laugh, looking at Sofia.

Sofia nodded her head in agreement. “Mom got the bees first, then I became interested,” she said, explaining that it’s hard work. She has gotten stung many times, and it’s hot wearing that protective bee suit in the Florida Keys sun.

So why do it?

“Because it’s cool! I’m fascinated.

And the honey is good,” Sofia said, her words spilling out excitedly. “We couldn’t live without bees. Bees pollinate everything. And one bee produces one teaspoon of honey in its lifetime. That is so amazing. The queen mates with a drone, and the queen

In a beekeeper suit, 11-year-old Sofia Figueredo tends to a bee hive.

to dragonflies and bees and butteris the only bee that lays eggs. The flies,” Elizabeth says. bees all have different jobs — drones, “We try to cover the hives when workers, guards and nurses. And the they spray,” added Sofia. “Sometimes majority of bees are female, and they you find tons of bees lying on the do most of the work.” ground, it’s so sad.”

Which is the inspiration for the Indeed, according to the Miami name of Sofia’s business: Ms. Behave Herald, “Aerial spraying of the controHoney. The tagline? “Girl Powered versial pesticide naled definitely kills Honey,” of course. mosquitoes, as it has for decades in Elizabeth bought their beginning the Florida Keys. Naled also kills bees hive kit from South Florida Bee Supcaught outside the hive along with plies. But she says that they couldn’t many other beneficial insects, say Keys have gotten started without the help beekeepers.” of their “bee mentor,” a local friend “It brings up the conversation who passed along hard-earned knowlabout what we’ve done to live on this edge, which is a traditional way to planet,” said Elizabeth. “We have to learn about beekeeping. ask the question: What tradeoffs are Sofia began taking the family we making? This is driven home when hobby seriously in 2018, when she we’re beekeeping.” created a honey-product business for And the duo takes care to emphaa local entrepreneurial contest called size that while a college fund for Sofia Keys Kids Business Faire, co-hosted is a great bonus, in the

by Island Christian School end they are having fun and an organization just learning about called Brainery. The bees. first-place prize was To that end, $1,500 in scholarElizabeth is happy ship money. Sofia Sofia is so into her to answer any nailed it, and her hobby that it has reader inquigrandmother become a modestly ries about was so improfitable side hustle, beekeeppressed that with money raised ing.

To ask she told Sofia from her honey questions or she would products going into a to order some match that prize college fund. honey, email as well as any elizabethjolin@ other earnings from bellsouth.net. A her business for a Teddy bear of honey college fund. is $3, a jar is $6, and a But it’s clear that pound is $13. Supply is both mother and daughter limited by what Sofia harvests every share this passion. They finish each four months, so customers may have other’s sentences while discussing the to go on a waitlist. ins and outs of beekeeping.

“The mosquito sprayings kill bees.

They are toxic to mosquitoes, but also

Sofia shows a frame with honey. Sofia began taking the family hobby seriously in 2018, when she created a honey-product business for a local entrepreneurial contest called Keys Kids Business Faire.

Sofia shows off a jar of her Ms. Behave Honey.

COMMUNITY NEWS

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

41

MYSTERY WRITER TO SPEAK AT ISLAMORADA LIBRARY’S ZOOM EVENT

I

Former state representative Holly Raschein accepted a position as director of government relations with AshBritt Environmental.

She officially began her new job on Dec. 1. CONTRIBUTED

RASCHEIN STARTS NEW JOB AS ASHBRITT ENVIRONMENTAL’S GOVERNMENT RELATIONS DIRECTOR

slamorada Library has announced that Lucy Burdette, the nom de plume of mystery writer Roberta Isleib, will be speaking live on Zoom on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m.

Her topics will include her Key West Food Critic mystery series, how she started writing mysteries, where ideas come from, and the benefits and perils

F

ormer state Rep. Holly Raschein started a new job in the private sector on Dec. 1, as AshBritt Environmental named her the new director of government relations.

In her new position, Raschein will lead the top rapidresponse disaster company’s policy objectives at the local, state and federal levels. Elected to the Florida House in 2012, Raschein termed out after serving eight years representing the Keys and parts of south Miami-Dade in Tallahassee.

“AshBritt Environmental is excited to welcome a leader of Holly’s caliber and expertise to the AshBritt team,” said CEO Brittany Perkins Castillo. “Holly’s leadership, including during Hurricane Irma, commitment to community members, and her passion for protecting and preserving the environment aligns with our company’s mission to help communities recover after a disaster. With Holly’s knowledge and impressive government experience, tremendous opportunity lies ahead.”

Raschein earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida State University, the first member of her family to go to college. She earned a master’s in public administration from Florida International University in Miami.

During her tenure in the legislature, Raschein made environmental issues a priority and championed legislation like the Florida Keys Stewardship Act to protect Florida’s ecosystem and natural resources. Among her service on several key committees, Raschein served as chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Appropriation Subcommittee and chair of the House Natural Resources and Public Lands Subcommittee.

In 2017, Raschein personally coordinated state and local emergency response, cleanup and restoration in the wake of Hurricane Irma, which made landfall in the Florida Keys as a Category 4 storm.

“I have long been a fan of the work AshBritt Environmental does in Florida and across the country,” Raschein said. “The company’s track record in environmental services and disaster recovery is unparalleled in the industry, and I look forward to working alongside this talented leadership team.”

— Contributed

Clinical psychologist Lucy Burdette (a.k.a. Roberta Isleib) has published 18 mysteries, including the latest in the Key West food critic series, ‘The Key Lime Crime.’ CONTRIBUTED

of writing a series. Then she will open the room to a live Q&A. Her books are available at Monroe County Public Libraries, but for signed copies, patrons can order from the independent sellers Key West Island Books as well as Books & Books in Key West.

Information on the Zoom session is available via email to caria-charlotte@monroecountyfl.gov.

Clinical psychologist Lucy Burdette (a.k.a. Roberta Isleib) has published 18 mysteries, including the latest in the Key West food critic series, “The Key Lime Crime.” Her books and stories have been short-listed for Agatha, Anthony, and Macavity awards. She's a past president of Sisters in Crime.

According to the author, the work of the detective in a mystery has a lot in common

with long-term psychotherapy: Start with a problem, follow the threads looking for clues, and gradually fill in the big picture. So this career move from psychologist to mystery writer turned out to be a natural progression. Like her food critic character in the Key West series, she is also passionate about food. She lives with her husband John in Key West and Connecticut.

About ‘The Key Lime Crime’: With her intimidating new mother-in-law bearing down on the island and a fierce rivalry between Key lime pie bakers to referee, food critic Hayley Snow is feeling anything but festive.

It’s the week between Christmas and New Year’s and Key West is bursting at the seams with holiday events and hordes of tourists. Adding to the chaos, Key lime pie aficionado David Sloan has persuaded the city to host his Key Lime pie extravaganza and contest. Hayley Snow can’t escape the madness because her bosses at Key Zest magazine have assigned her to cover the event. Every pie purveyor in Key West is determined to claim the Key lime spotlight — and win the coveted Key Lime Key to the City.

Another recipe for disaster — Hayley’s hubby, police detective Nathan Bransford, announces that his mother will be making a surprise visit. Newlywed Hayley must play the dutiful daughterin-law, so she and her pal Miss Gloria offer to escort his mom on the iconic Conch Train Tour of the island's holiday lights. But it's not all glittering palm trees and fantastic flamingos — the unlikely trio finds a real body stashed in one of the elaborate displays.

And the victim is no stranger: Hayley recognizes the controversial new pastry chef from Au Citron Vert, a frontrunner in Sloan’s contest.

Hayley must not only find who’s removed the chef from the contest kitchen, she's also got to handle a too-curious mother-inlaw who seems to be cooking up trouble of her own.

— Contributed

42

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES •

305.743.0844

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: DESIGN – BUILD ROCKLAND KEY PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements 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 upon request.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00 P.M. on January 13, 2021. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Rockland Key Public Works Facility Design-Build 01/13/2021 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on January 13, 2021. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

at 3:00 P.M., the Monroe County Purchasing Office will receive and open sealed responses for the following: KEY WEST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ACCESS ROAD MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA Pursuant to F.S. § 50.0211(3) (a), all published competitive solicitation notices can be viewed at: www. floridapublicnotices.com, a searchable Statewide repository for all published legal notices.

Requirements 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 upon request.

In response to Covid-19, the Monroe County Purchasing Department has implemented a new electronic process for reviewing and opening sealed bids. Monroe County is committed to continuing to receive and process competitive solicitations while maintaining the health and safety of our employees and those who attend bid openings. Please do not mail or attempt to deliver in person any sealed bids. Mailed/ physically delivered bids/ proposal/responses WILL NOT be accepted.

The Monroe County Purchasing Department hereby directs that bids be submitted via email to: OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, no later than 3:00 P.M. on February 17, 2021. Please submit your confidential financial information in a SEPARATE EMAIL from your bid and required documents. Your subject line on both emails must read as follows: Key West International Airport Access Road 02/17/2021 Files that do not contain this subject line WILL BE REJECTED. Please note that the maximum file size that will be accepted by email is 25MB. Please plan accordingly to ensure that your bid is not rejected due to the file size. Should your bid documents exceed 25MB or otherwise be rejected or undeliverable to OMB-BIDS@monroecounty-fl. gov, in advance of the bid opening, please email: ombpurchasing@monroecounty-fl. gov so accommodations for delivery of your bid can be made prior to the bid opening. Please be advised that it is the bidder’s sole responsibility to ensure delivery of their bid and waiting until the bid opening to address or confirm your bid submission delivery will result in your bid being rejected.

The bid opening for this solicitation will be held virtually, via the internet, at 3:00 P.M., on February 17, 2021. You may call in by phone or internet using the following: Join Zoom Meeting https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/4509326156 Meeting ID: 4509326156 One tap mobile: +16465189805,, 4509326156# US (New York) +16699006833,, 4509326156# US (San Jose) Dial by your location: +1 646 518 9805 US (New York) +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose) Publish: December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

method of collecting non-ad valorem special assessments to be levied within the County, for the cost of providing roadway improvements, and sea level rise improvements commencing for the Fiscal Year beginning on October 1, 2021 and continuing until discontinued by the County.

The County will consider the adoption of a resolution electing to use the uniform method of collecting such assessments authorized by section 197.3632, Florida Statutes, at a public hearing to be held at 1:30 P.M. on December 9, 2020 at the Commission Chambers, Murray Nelson Government Center BOCC Room, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida and via Communication Technology Technology (“CMT”), using a Zoom webinar platform as set forth in more detail below.

Such resolution will state the need for the levy and will contain a legal description of the boundaries of the real property subject to the levy.

Copies of the proposed form of resolution, which contains the legal description of the real property subject to the levy, are on file at the Clerk of the Courts, 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida. All interested persons are invited to attend.

Due to COVID-19 and in consideration of the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the December 9, 2020, Public Hearing will also be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”), using a Zoom Webinar platform @ https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/96823206145. The County will provide updates for changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings on the County Website at: www.MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. Below are the various options available to the public to view the live meeting and/or to make public comments on the public hearing.

The public can comment during the live Public Hearing either by phoning in or by connecting to the live Zoom webinar link using the following instructions: a) To comment on an item by phone: Dial (646) 518-9805 or (669) 900-6833 and, when prompted, enter the Webinar ID# 968 2320 6145 followed by the # key, then *9 to “Raise your hand” to be recognized by the Zoom webinar host. b) To comment on an item using the live Zoom webinar link: Open this live Zoom webinar link @ https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/96823206145 (that also appears in both the published Agenda and Agenda Packet).

When prompted, enter your email address and name to join the webinar. When the Mayor calls for speakers on the item(s) on which you wish to comment, or when the Board is nearing your item(s) as the meeting progresses, select the “Raised Hand” feature that appears at the bottom of the Zoom webinar screen, to be recognized by the Zoom webinar host.

The Zoom Webinar monitor will request the agenda item # on which you wish to comment and will enable your participation when the Mayor calls for public speakers on your item. To report problems with the broadcast, please call: (305) 872-8831.

A person may submit written or other physical evidence on a particular agenda item for consideration at the BOCC meeting to: Lindsey Ballard, via email to: ballard-lindsey@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by mail to: County Administrator’s Office, 1100 Simonton Street, Suite 205, Key West, FL 33040.

The documents must be received by 3:00 P.M. on Monday, December 7, 2020, and must include the submitter’s name, address, phone number, email address, and the agenda item number to which the documents refer.

In the event any person decides to appeal any decision by the County with respect to any matter relating to the consideration of the resolution at the above-referenced public hearing, a record of the proceeding may be needed and in such an event, such person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the public hearing is made, which record includes the testimony and evidence on which the appeal is to be based. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the County Administrator’s Office at (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 A.M and 5:00 P.M. prior to the date of the hearing; if you are hearing or voice impaired, call “711”. Live Closed Captioning is available via our web portal @ http:// monroecountyfl.iqm2.com/ Citizens/Default.aspx for meetings of the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

Dated at Key West, Florida, this 3rd day of November 2020.

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 12, 19, 26 & December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

on the County Website at: www.MonroeCounty-FL.Gov. Below are the various options available to the public to view the live meeting and/or to make public comments on the public hearing.

The public can comment during the live Public Hearing either by phoning in or by connecting to the live Zoom webinar link using the following instructions: a) To comment on an item by phone: Dial (646) 518-9805 or (669) 900-6833 and, when prompted, enter the Webinar ID# 968 2320 6145 followed by the # key, then *9 to “Raise your hand” to be recognized by the Zoom webinar host. b) To comment on an item using the live Zoom webinar link: Open this live Zoom webinar link @ https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/96823206145 (that also appears in both the published Agenda and Agenda Packet).

When prompted, enter your email address and name to join the webinar. When the Mayor calls for speakers on the item(s) on which you wish to comment, or when the Board is nearing your item(s) as the meeting progresses, select the “Raised Hand” feature that appears at the bottom of the Zoom webinar screen, to be recognized by the Zoom webinar host.

The Zoom Webinar monitor will request the agenda item # on which you wish to comment and will enable your participation when the Mayor calls for public speakers on your item. To report problems with the broadcast, please call: (305) 872-8831.

A person may submit written or other physical evidence on a particular agenda item for consideration at the BOCC meeting to: Lindsey Ballard, via email to: ballard-lindsey@ monroecounty-fl.gov, or by mail to: County Administrator’s Office, 1100 Simonton Street, Suite 205, Key West, FL 33040.

The documents must be received by 3:00 P.M. on Friday, December 4, 2020, and must include the submitter’s name, address, phone number, email address, and the agenda item number to which the documents refer.

Pursuant to Section 286.0105, F.S., if a person decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the hearing, such person will need a record of the proceedings and may need to ensure that a verbatim record is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is to be made.

ADA Assistance: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person needing a special accommodation or an interpreter to participate in this proceeding should contact the County Administrator’s office at (305) 292-4441, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., no later than five (5) days prior to the date of the hearing. If you are hearing or voice impaired, call ‘711.’

KEVIN MADOK, Clerk of the Circuit Court and ex officio Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida Publish: November 12, 19, 26 & December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Jean M. Savino, deceased, whose date of death was September 16, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and her attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against the 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 DATE OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is December 3, 2020.

Personal Representative: Mary Beth Meyers 22993 Anne Bonny Lane Cudjoe Key, FL 33042 Attorney for Personal Representative: Darah L. Schofield Marshall Law Offices, Ltd Florida Bar No. 109259 300 Centerville Road, Suite 204W Warwick, RI 02886 P. (401) 732-8070 Email: Darah@JMarshall-Law. com Publish: December 3 & 10, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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 3, 2020 Personal Representatives: Natalie Miller Light 900 E. Wyandotte McAlester, Oklahoma 74501 William D. Miller, II 4001 S. Bryant Ave. Moore, Oklahoma 73160 Attorney for Personal Representatives: Samantha J. Fitzgerald, Esq. Attorney Florida Bar Number: 173762 8551 W. Sunrise Boulevard Suite 301 Plantation, FL 33322 Telephone: (954) 580.3690 Fax: (888) 663.6471 Email: samantha@ estateandprobatelawyer.com Publish: December 3 & 10, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATIONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Wednesday, February 17, 2021,

NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS Monroe County, Florida (the “County”) hereby provides notice, pursuant to section 197.3632(3)(a), Florida Statutes, of its intent to use the uniform

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF COUNTY RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN that on December 9, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as may be heard, at the Murray Nelson Center, 102050 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, and also via Communication Media Technology (CMT) using a Zoom webinar as described below, the Board of County Commissioners of Monroe County, Florida, will hold a public hearing to consider approval of the following County resolution: A RESOLUTION OF MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA ANNOUNCING NOTICE OF INTENT TO USE THE UNIFORM METHOD OF COLLECTING NON-AD VALOREM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED WITHIN THE COUNTY BEGINNING WITH THE TAX BILL ISSUED IN NOVEMBER 2021 FOR CANAL RESTORATION PROJECTS ON CANALS 82, 83 AND 84 IN KEY LARGO; STATING A NEED FOR SUCH LEVY; PROVIDING FOR THE MAILING OF THIS RESOLUTION; AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE. A full copy of the resolution including the legal description of the properties affected may be obtained by calling the Monroe County Attorney’s Office at (305) 292-3470.

Due to COVID-19 and in consideration of the Center for Disease Control (“CDC”) social-distancing guidelines established to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the December 9, 2020, Public Hearing will also be conducted via Communication Media Technology (“CMT”), using a Zoom Webinar platform @ https://mcbocc.zoom. us/j/96823206145. The County will provide updates for changing directives for Local Government Public Meetings

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA DIVISION: PROBATE CASE NO.: 20-CP-000268-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF JEAN M. SAVINO, (a/k/a Jean Marie Savino, Jean S. McGuirl, Jean McGuirl)

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-000267-K IN RE: ESTATE OF JOHN BRADLEY MILLER aka BRAD MILLER, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of John Bradley Miller aka Brad Miller, deceased, whose date of death was March 27, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representatives’ 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 THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION CASE NO.: 20-CP-000260-K IN RE: THE ESTATE OF KEVIN LEE STEWART, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Kevin Lee Stewart, deceased, whose date of death was October 8, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 500 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida 33040. The names and addresses of the personal representative and the personal representative’s attorney are set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is required to be served must file their claims with this court ON OR BEFORE 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 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. NOT WITHSTANDING THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER THE DECEDENT’S DATED OF DEATH IS BARRED. The date of first publication of this notice is November 26, 2020.

Personal Representative: Brian W. Stewart 4372 Stockton Court Marietta, Georgia 30066 Attorney for Personal Representative: JoAnn F. Kucklick, Esq. Florida Bar No. 991317 PO Bo 56376 Jacksonville, FL 32241 Telephone: (904) 719-8334 Publish: November 26 & December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

KEYS SCENES

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

It’s not officially Christmas at the Mitchells’ until the life-sized nutcrackers appear. They were a gift from our son’s Uncle Robert 10 years ago and have become our signature decoration every year since. STEPHANIE MITCHELL/Contributed

Vintage lights from Michigan find their way to Key Largo. DEB RIOLO/ Contributed

While we are stuck in Arkansas this season, our hearts are in the Keys.

LYNN WILLIAMS/Contributed

The Home Depot in Marathon had this adorable backdrop set up for local kids. Here, Addison Tufts poses with her dolly. CONTRIBUTED

Every year we wait for Santa to arrive on Christmas Eve by fire truck in Marathon in our Santa hats & reindeer antlers. In this photo is my daughter, Ariana Patterson, my husband, TJ Patterson, and my dad, Henk Roeloffzen. God willing we will be doing this again this year.

ANNEKE PATTERSON/Contributed

Skiff meeting his new brother, Grady, who was adopted this season. SUSAN McKEE/Contributed

Reyes family Christmas photo at the Coldwell Banker building in 2019.

Mother-in-law Josephine, mother Miriam, Javier Reyes, his wife Viviana, their son Ian and daughter Amy. JAVIER REYES/Contributed

Lucas Blanton’s family has an incredible holiday light display at their home on Grassy Key. Take a gander on the east side of Morton Street.

SARA MATTHIS/Keys Weekly

Sienna, taken at the homeowners park on Coral Ave. CONTRIBUTED

HOLIDAYS AT HOME

O

ur theme for DECEMBER is HOLIDAYS AT HOME. Since many of us cannot travel to be with loved ones this year, we wanted to hold our favorite memories near. Send us your favorite holiday moments from years past or how you’re celebrating this one to make this season merry and bright.

Photos, captions and photo credit can be emailed to tiffany@keysweekly.com.

Rules, schmules: • All photos must be original work and feature something in the Keys.

• Photos can be images that have been published before.

• No third party may own or control any materials the photo contains, and the photo must not infringe upon the trademark, copyright, moral rights, intellectual rights, or rights of privacy of any entity or person.

The end of hurricane season (and the stress it brings), is celebrated annually on Nov. 30 in Key West with a Hurricane Flag Burning Ceremony.

The official Hurricane Flags are soaked in high octane rum and set aflame. BILL KLIPP/Contributed

TIFFANY DUONG

tiffany@keysweekly.com

• Any person agrees, by submitting photos, that photos submitted can be used by the Keys Weekly for any and all purposes, including but not limited to advertising, charity work, sales, future editorial, print in the newspapers or online or on social media posts on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and any other social media platforms as may come about.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES • •305.743.0844 LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

OFFICE SPACE

YARD SALES

FILE NO.: 20-CP-000070-M IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT PERRY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of ROBERT PERRY, deceased, whose date of death was August 2, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for MONROE County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. 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: November 26, 2020.

Personal Representative: Joseph M. Perry 499 M-72 Kalkaska, Michigan 49646-8570 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-mail: Service@FloridaKeysLaw. com Secondary E-Mail: RMiller@ FloridaKeysLaw.com Publish: November 26 & December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

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: November 26, 2020.

Personal Representative: Robert S. Kirby, Jr. 134A New Leaf Lane Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913 Attorney for Personal Representative: Robert K. Miller, Esq. Florida Bar Number: 359173 Cunningham Miller Rhyne PA 10075 Overseas Hwy PO Box 500938 Marathon, FL 33050 Telephone: (305) 743-9428 Fax: (305) 743-8800 E-mail: service@floridakeyslaw. com Secondary E-Mail: rmiller@ floridakeyslaw.com Publish: November 26 & December 3, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

mortgage on the above-styled by the above-named Plaintiff and encumbering the following described property in Monroe County, Florida: Lot 13, Robyn Subdivision, according to the map or plat thereof as recorded in Plat Book 5, Page 80, Public Records of Monroe County, Florida.

Together with 1966 New Moon Trailer, ID#321244, Title #2327898 has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any to it on Plaintiff’s attorney, Richard B. Storfer, Esquire, of the firm of Rice Pugatch Robinson Storfer & Cohen, PLLC, whose address is 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1800, Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33301, on or before Jan. 4, 2021, and file the original with the Clerk of this Court either before service on Plaintiff’s attorneys or immediately thereafter; otherwise a default will be entered against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.

Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that this law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purposes.

WITNESS my hand and seal of said court at Monroe County, Florida, this 18 day of November 2020.

KEVIN MADOK, CPA As Clerk, Circuit Court Monroe County, Florida By: Shonta McLeod As Deputy Clerk Publish: December 3 & 10, 2020 The Weekly Newspapers

Post-closer/legal assistant. Key West real estate law firm seeks a detail and customer service oriented postcloser/legal assistant for real estate transaction post-closing duties. Full or part time. Salary based on experience, benefits provided if full time.

Email resume to greg@ oropezastonescardenas. com.

Come Join Our Family and Have Fun At Work! Hiring: Host, Hostess & Servers Full &/or part-time. AM & PM Shifts. Apply in person at Castaway Restaurant, end of 15th Street, Oceanside, Marathon or email: lobstercrawl@gmail.com.

Beautiful Office Space available for rent now on US1 in Tavernier @ MM92. Call 305-394-0530

A BIG Treasures & Trash Yard Sale - Rain or Shine This Fri Dec. 4 & Sat Dec. 5 from 8am-3pm and Sun Dec. 6 from 10am-2pm.

Something for everyone.

Bargains galore. All must go! 419 Sombrero Beach Road- Mask Required.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION FILE NO.: 20-CP-80-M IN RE: ESTATE OF ROBERT SCOTT KIRBY, Deceased.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The administration of the estate of Robert Scott Kirby, deceased, whose date of death was October 8, 2020, is pending in the Circuit Court for Monroe County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 3117 Overseas Highway, Marathon, Florida 33050. 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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE 16TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA GENERAL JURISDICTION DIVISION CASE NO. 20-CA-000230-K CENTENNIAL BANK, Plaintiff, vs.

STEVEN C. SANCHEZ, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS PROPERTY GUARDIAN FOR KIRSTEN T. SANCHEZ, MINOR CHILD, AND MIKIE R. SANCHEZ, MINOR CHILD; ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS WHO MAY BE HEIRS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, GRANTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, ASSIGNEES OR OTHER CLAIMANTS OF ROBERT M. SANCHEZ, DECEASED, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST HIM AND ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING TO HAVE ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY, UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF ROBERT M. SANCHEZ, UNKNOWN SPOUSE OF STEVEN C. SANCHEZ, STATE OF FLORIDA CLERK OF THE COURT FOR MONROE COUNTY, FLORIDA, KIRSTEN T. SANCHEZ, MIKIE R. SANCHEZ and UNKNOWN TENANT IN POSSESSION, Defendants.

NOTICE OF ACTION CONSTRUCTIVE SERVICE PROPERTY TO: All unknown persons who may be heirs, devisees, legatees, grantees, lienors, creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants of Robert M. Sanchez, deceased, Residence Unknown, if alive, and if dead, Robert M. Sanchez’s heirs, devisees, grantees, devisees, legatees, lienors creditors, trustees, assignees or other claimants and all other parties claiming interests, by through, under or against Robert M. Sanchez, and all parties having or claiming to have any right, title or interest in the property herein described.

AND: Kirsten T. Sanchez Last known addresses: 5413 Third Avenue, Stock Island, FL 33040 17 Queensland Drive, Spencerport, NY 14559 YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an action to foreclosure a

AUTOS WANTED ALL YEARS! Junk or Used.

Cars - Vans - TrucksRunning or Not. $CASH$ 305-332-0483

AUTOS FOR SALE 2001 XK8 Jaguar Red Convertible. 74k miles.

Excellent condition.

Located in Upper Keys. $6,000 Call 305-766-6804 SOLD IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

BOATS FOR SALE 1997 Grady White 209 Escape 21’ center console.

New custom T-top, new rub rails. Brand new electronics and switches. 2 stroke Mercury outboard. $16,000 OBO Located in Marathon.

Call 305-481-1463 Place your Boat For Sale ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and Sell Your Boat!

EMPLOYMENT Project Manager/ Coordinator needed in Upper Keys. Must have own transportation.

Some computer experience a plus. Call 305-852-3002 The Marathon Yacht Club is looking to hire a Line Cook to assist our Chef. Please call us at 305-743-6739 to schedule an interview.

CEI Inspector needed in Marathon, FL. Fulltime position. Must have high school diploma or equivalent and valid driver’s license. Relevant construction experience is a plus. Email resume to: Pom.Chak k aphak@wsp. com Serve/Bartend on the ocean FT/PT Ocean front private swim club is seeking customer service oriented Server/Bartender.

Serve on pool deck, beach and/or bar lounge. Open year round, 10am-7pm daily. Full time/Part time.

Small friendly staff. Above average hourly wage plus tips. Apply in person at Cabana Club, 425 E. Ocean Dr. Key Colony Beach or call April (305) 393-0631.

Looking for a daycare teacher. Will get trained and certified through the daycare if needed. MonFri Full time position avail.

Contact Banana Cabana Academy at banana. cabana@att.net with resume or call 305-745-1400 to schedule an interview.

Place your Employment ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today and get the job filled!

PETS FOR SALE For Sale: Pure-bred Doberman Pinscher puppies in Marathon.

Call Tammy for details.

305-731-0683

Place your Yard Sale ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today and get your stuff sold!

CDL Driver needed.

Minimum 2 years experience.

Call 305248-6149 to apply HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!

Digital Marketing Consultant needed. Great growth opportunities.

Will train right person.

Key West Office, more at TwoOceansDigital.com/ jobs HIRED IN LESS THAN ONE WEEK!!

Part-time clerical help needed in Marathon. 24 hrs per week. Filing, Customer Service, some computer work. Email: dbabbe@ a cc u rate e l e vato r s. co m HIRED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!

HOBBIES/COLLECT. PRIVATE COLLECTOR WANTS Rolex, Dive Watches and Pilot Watches.

Old Model Military Clocks & W a t c h e s .

Call 305-743-4578

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Immediate openings: full and part-time Educational Program Guides/Gift Shop Sales. Public speaking & retail sales experience helpful. $12.00/hour to start Send resume to: turtlehosp@aol.com

HOUSING FOR RENT Seeking Security Guard in Middle Keys. FT & PT $20/hr.

Must have security license.

Call Ralons Security 7 8 6 - 6 1 5 - 5 5 2 2 Keys Fisheries looking to hire pie makers, process food workers, lobster processors and fork-lift driver to expand the production of the products that we are now selling to various large supermarkets.

These positions will be full time and be eligible for a benefits package. Apply within at 3390 Gulfview Avenue, Marathon Bridge Operator position available in the Snake Creek Drawbridge, located in Islamorada.

Paid training will be provided.

Payrate: $10.50/hr. Email resume to jschultz@ fdi.team or call Jeff Schultz at 708-214-0311.

Boat rental company in Marathon needs mechanic with knowledge of outboard motors Call 305-481-7006 City of Marathon - Job O p e n i n g : Street Maintenance.

EOE, FULL BENEFITS www.ci.marathon.fl.us

Conch House in Marathon 2BR, unfurnished. $1,800/month.

F/L/S No Pets 305-610-8002 Place your Home For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/ week for up to five lines of copy. Call 305-743-0844 today and rent your house!

Trailer For Rent - 1BR/1BA 28' trailer w/slide-out. $1,200/month F/L/$600 security. Includes parking, Wi-Fi, Direct TV, water & garbage, you pay electric.

No pets. No smoking.

Background check required.

Come in person to view property Monday-Friday 8am-5pm. 2525 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 RENTED IN LESS THAN THREE WEEKS!!!

Long-term, 2BR/2BA Condo in Key Colony Beach. Furnished, screened patio, includes water, sewer, basic cable and ocean accessibility. $2,000/ month Call 716-913-3576 RENTED IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!!!

OFFICE SPACE Place your Office Space For Rent ad here. Only $25.00/week for up to five lines of copy.

Call 305-743-0844 today and rent your space!

FULL TIME OPENING LINE SERVICE PERSONNEL Greet and fuel aircraft Prior aviation experience preferred Clean driving record required Competitive wages, excellent benefits, and a fun work environment

Contact Kris Schluter kris@marathonaviation.com (305) 743-3717 EOE/Drug-free workplace

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

• CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC && LEGAL NOTICES • • 305.743.0844 • CLASSIFIEDS, PUBLIC LEGAL NOTICES 305.743.0844 The Guidance/Care Center, Inc. a division of

“Uplifting the human spirit since 1973”

THE GUIDANCE/CARE CENTER, Inc.

NOW HIRING RESTAURANT HOST SERVERS BARTENDERS FOOD RUNNER PUBLIC AREA ATTENDANT LAUNDRY ATTENDANT ROOM ATTENDANTS BELLMEN LINE COOK SOUS CHEF BAKER APPLY AT: bungalowskeylargo.com/careers

IS HIRING! KEY LARGO Behavioral Health Counselor Client Advocate

KEY WEST

Case Manager (Forensic, Adult) Substance Abuse Counselor Behavioral Health Counselor (Children) Behavioral Health Therapist (Adult) FL LCSW,LMHC, LMFT Engagement Specialist (Suicide Prevention) Crisis Counselor

MARATHON

Behavioral Health Counselor Care Coordinator Behavioral Health Therapist (Children) RNs and LPNs (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) Peer Support Specialist Drop In Technician (PT) Driver (CDL preferred) *Assisted Living Direct Care Worker (PT/FT) *Behavioral Health Technicians (3 shifts) (PT/FT & per diem) *Night Monitor (FREE HOUSING!!!!) *No experience necessary. Will train.

A caring heart & helpful hands required.

Ability to work some evening or weekend shifts a plus.

If you’ve wanted to get into the medical field but don’t have the education, this is the job for you!

Background and drug screen req.

Bungalows Key Largo is an EOE

GREAT BENEFITS! Check out all available positions at: www.westcare.com EEOC/DFWP

Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop

FLORIDA KEYS DIESEL - MARATHON

NOW HIRING:

is now hiring for Afternoon & Evening Shifts.

Please Apply In Person 8919 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

Diesel Technician position available.

Competitive compensation package. Experience in the marine field preferred but not necessary. Experience with Caterpillar and Cummins Marine Engines a plus.

Diesel Mechanic Assistant position available.

Looking for a motivated candidate willing to learn a new trade or expand current skills. Company willing to train.

Qualified applicants please call 305-289-2070 or email resume to neil@allkeysdiesel.com . Drug Free and valid Drivers License a must.

DOLPHIN RESEARCH CENTER 58901 O/S Hwy - Grassy Key, FL Teaching... Learning... Caring Do you love dolphins, being outdoors and taking photographs?

We have the job for you! Dolphin Research Center has full-time openings for Visual Communications Staff Members (Permanent & Seasonal opportunities available). Applicants should be familiar with digital photography/videography. Benefits include medical, life, disability insurance, 401(k), paid vacation, sick & holidays.

Job description available at www.dolphins.org. E-mail cover letter, DRC application and your resume to drc-hr@dolphins.org. EOE

MARATHON GARBAGE SERVICE We are now hiring for the following positions:

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

4290 Overseas Hwy, Marathon

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS NEEDED! Monroe County School District

Salary $17.15 – $24.15/hour Key West, Sugarloaf, Marathon and Upper Keys (4 work locations) No Experience Required, Benefits, CDL Training Provided – work as a Bus Aide while training, Full Time or Flexible, Part Time Hours - 6 to 9 am or 1 or 2 to 5 pm Apply online: www.keysschools.com

NOW HIRING

Marathon, Big Pine Key & Stock Island Locations

READY FOR A CHANGE? A NEW CAREER AWAITS IN AN ESTABLISHED COMPANY.

$15 per hour to start 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.

$50,000 salary plus commission and benefits for qualified candidates.

Send your confidential resume to britt@keysweekly.com.

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

LET’S DO BUSINESS - 305.453.6928 Licensed & Insured #SP33799

GENERAL CONTRACTORS & ENGINEERS

SPALLING

ALL KEYS GLASS

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Windows • Doors

305-743-7800

Authorized Dealer

Sales & Installation • Tub & Shower Enclosures Safety & Tempered Glass • Mirror & Mirror Walls Plexi-Glass & Lexan

EXPERTS

2728 North Roosevelt Blvd.

Overseas Market Key West

NOW HIRING!

Sewer Connections 305

872-1876

• New Construction • Remodeling • Irrigation

y’s www.KeysSlidingGlassDoorRepair.com d n A Sliding Glass Door Repair Roller Maintenance Track Maintenance Door Alignment Security Pins Safety Locks Handles

We Also Repair & Replace Patio Door Screens

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305

296-BLUE

• Heavy Equipment • Solar Lic## RF11067168

PC 606

Proud member of:

INTERNATIONAL

CONCRETE REPAIR INSTITUTE

Kitchen Cabinets Sales REAL Wood Cabinets at Particle Board Prices KitchenKorner/Fred's Beds 1333 O/S Hwy, MM 53.5 • 305-743-7277

Appliance and Air Conditioning

Sales - Service - Installation 1700 N. Roosevelt Blvd #2, Key West 305-294-0090 • www.kolhages.com

Insured • Professional • Reliable

Sportfishing Adventures

Dolphin-Tuna-Wahoo-Billfish-Snapper-Grouper-Shark Deep Sea –Off Shore-Reef-Wrecks-Gulf

info@johnnymaddoxcharters.com

305-481-3259

Keys Fisheries Market & Marina Mile Marker 48.5, Marathon End of 35th Street Bayside

Tewes Mortgage

Your local, residential lending expert!

Call 305.495.6000

SOLAR DONE RIGHT! CALL US FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE

We also service and sell: Marine A/C, Refrigeration, Watermakers, Batteries, Solar Systems, Anything Electrical!

for a FREE Consultation

Brian Tewes

• SINCE 1989 •

Customer service is my strength Brian@tewesmortgage.com

305-289-1150

NMLS# 375025 Tewes Mortgage NMLS# 1453791 NMLSConsumerAccess.org Florida Solar Contractor CVC 56734

www.TewesMortgage.com

Serving Key Largo to Key West

Serving Monroe, Dade & Broward Including Airports & Ports.

SUV, Van & Limousine options available Call us for special events.

Only $50 Puts Your Business Card Here

305-743-7454

fkes2011@gmail.com floridakeysexpressshuttle.com

When It Rains It Pours!

Need 7” Gutters? We have 6” & 7” Seamless • Copper Specialists

Key West 305-292-2666

MARATHON

305-743-0506

KEY LARGO

305-852-5356

rainsavergutters@gmail.com

Cell: 305-363-8330 Office: 305-735-4626 will@cecflk.com www.CECFLK.com

www.saltenergy.net www.saltservice.net 2992 Overseas Highway Marathon, FL 33050

Will Campbell President

P.E. Lic. No: 79269 5800 Overseas Hwy. Unit 32 Marathon, FL. 33050

KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

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KEY WEST WEEKLY / DECEMBER 3, 2020

305.433.2020

FREE

DELIVERY 15% LOCALS DISCOUNT (WITH LOCAL ID)

700 FRONT STREET AT THE HISTORIC KEY WEST SEAPORT

KEY WEST

WAHLBURGERS GOES 11 AM TO 11 PM

DINE IN | CURBSIDE PICKUP | 305.433.2020